The Knights Whose Armor Shone

7/30/2019 The Knights Whose Armor Shone

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The Knights Whose Armor ShoneA Tale of Knights and Maidens

by

N0b136

MidoriwaGenerica Townsley

CloudXxFF7XxACXxDOCX

Azura SnowHeart

Queen_of_Harte-s

Lord Artorias

roseswan95

-l- P i n k H i m e -l-

Superdyl21

~What Ever Happened To Knights In Shining Armor~
http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/azura-snowheart/23937825/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/lord-artorias/33695897/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/roseswan95/18618098/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/l-p-i-n-k-h-i-m-e-l/15146304/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/superdyl21/32185731/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/lord-artorias/33695897/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/roseswan95/18618098/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/l-p-i-n-k-h-i-m-e-l/15146304/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/superdyl21/32185731/http://www.gaiaonline.com/profiles/azura-snowheart/23937825/


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There was once a land, in the mountains of the Westhorn, where Knights rode magnificent steeds, anddamsels were in distress.

Factions

House Theoril

The House of Threoril governs the Southern valley of the Westhorn. Ruled by Lord Theoril, the Mighty, theKnights of Theoril are known for their comradeship. It is said that if two or more Knights of Theoril aretogether, they are undefeatable. The people of Theoril are light skined with curly red hair and flashing green

eyes. Merry are the Halls and taverns in Theoril. Red are the battlefields upon which their warriors walk.

House Almont

Lord Almont and his sons rule the northern valleys of the Westhorn. Many are the sons of Almont, for man arethe wives. Sons and daughters of the king are in constant rivalry with each other to earn their father'saffection. Dark haired and light blue eyes adorn the olive skinned royal family.

House Gelfing

Lord Gelfing is the Lord of the mountains, his lands span the eastern range of the Westhorn. He has four sons,and one daughter, as well as a host of brave Knights. The mountain knights are fearsome and terrible inbattle, having no mercy for those who are defeated. Light haired, Light skinned and brown eyes mark thefeatures of the Gelfing.

House Elndor

Lord Elndor rules over the western river valley of the Westhorn. His Dark nights are renowned as nomadic, butformidable. The dark hair and dark eyes accent the dark skin of a strong people. The Elndor knights wander,always looking for something that would prove they are the mightiest warriors in the land.


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Prolouge

In the town of Tonsdale, the center most point of the Westhorn, where all of the valleysconverge, and which is declared neutral from any of the four houses, A tournament was held. All four

Lords came to the town to watch the grand even, and to talk diplomacy in the evenings. The hosts of

nights came as well, to watch the games, participate, or protect their Lords. People came from milesaround to the magnificent festival. The streets of the city were packed with throngs of people of every

level of society. Though, really, there only were two, the poor and the wealthy.

Many events were available for the knights to partake in, as well as events that the common folk

could try their skill in. The events were in Archery, Swordsmanship, Spear Fighting, the Free Arena,and most popular of all, the Joust. Every year one commoner, the winner who proved himself of great

skill and worthy living, was knighted by whatever country he chose. It was what ever commoner fought

for in their games, a chance to rise above the rest and to join in the halls of the Knights.To say that the city was free for tyranny during this happy time would be a gross

miscommunication however, for where many people are, many criminals will be as well. Some knights

chose not to partake in the festivities, instead to walk the streets as vigilante heroes hoping to find some

injustice that they might set right.

McRoy sat in the a wooden chair on the left most edge of the southern stands of the jousting

arena. Whipping his brow with a cloth, to cleanse his forehead of the thick layer of perspiration that

had accumulated there, he was glad for the shade he sat in, he imagined the sunburn he would have had

he been standing out among the throngs in the sun. He had ridding four days to come to thetournament, but was not competing in it this year, as it was only his first as a knight. He would watch

the events happily, and try to spy out a lovely lady to win with his charm. He slapped his squire, and

best friend on the shoulder. Come, Jack, help me find a Lady that is worthy of woo along these foursided, perhaps I may win myself a bride at these games, for truth, I am not getting any younger.

He had his sword at his side, but wore only a dark red tunic and trousers. The clothes were of

fine cloth and skillful make, and the crest of the Knights of Theoril was upon his lift shoulder. Hegrinned as the jousters met, with splintering poles and clanging armor. One of the men was hit hard,

square in the chest, and he was flung from his horse, crashing to the ground with a painful clamor or

metal. The crowd roared with applause as the man's steed was led off to the victors tent as a prize.

Conscience Gelfing sat in the stands with a bored and disinterested expression across her face.

She steeled herself not to flinch as the losing rider crashed to the ground. She knew jousting was an

important part of training for battle, and would keep her house's knights safer in the long run, but shestill hated to see a sport so damaging to the body turned to entertainment. She looked away as the loser

left the field, feigning boredom. While the next knights lined up at their respective ends of the list,

Conscience left the stands. Her absence would surely not be missed in all the excitement of the joust.She walked silently but with purpose away from the stands. The day was still young, and there had

thankfully been no major injuries as of yet, and so it was unlikely for there to be work for her here. In

the town, however, there would surely be some place in need of her skills. Summer brought fevers, andthere were almost never enough people willing to risk infection to tend the sick.

McRoy, not bothering to watch the field, instead letting his eyes graze through the plethora of

beautiful faces in the opposite stands. He took a drink of cold ale, brought by a peasant boy for threegold coins, and happened to look at the steps of the Gelfing side. Descending the steps and walking off

into the town was a woman, who, in McRoy was not mistaken, was one of the Lord's daughters.

Haste Jack, Who is that fair Lady there, the one in the brown descending from the Gelfing booth.


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Good sir, If I am to be praised for my excellent memory from our trip to the house of Gelfing winter

last, and I am, That is Lady Concience Gelfing, the Lords daughter.

Ah, Jack, and highly to be praised you are. For I believe you are correct. Good man, Now, stay in my

seat and inform me of any exciting event upon my return. Else, should I not, I will be back on themorrow with tales to tell.

McRoy jumped up and swung himself down the stairs, landing gracefully and trotting off after

the lady his eye had caught upon. It took him a few minute to catch up to her, and after running hisfingers through his hair, and taking a deep breath, walked up beside her. A Lady of Gelfing should not

be walking alone, in such a crowded city, what would your father say should anything happen to you?

If it would please her ladyship, I would be her escort for the remainder of the day. What say you MyLady? McRoy said, bowing deeply then looking up with a charming smile.

Conscience took in the appearance of the man before her. He bore the crest of Theoril, and possessedthe tell-tale red hair and green eyes. He was handsome in stature and fair of face, but she had no desire

to show herself as friendly. She turned her mouth down slightly as if in distaste. "I thank you for your

concern, Sir knight, but I assure you I am quite capable of traversing a street."She said, and paused. Her

mother would likely berate her for speaking so to a foreign knight, and would no doubt have told hershe was acting as a disgrace to her House. Indeed, she had done so before when Conscience's efforts to

avoid friendships had gone awry.

She spoke again. "Forgive me. I would be grateful for an escort if you could lead me to the townhospital." Perhaps she could persuade him to leave her at the hospital. Few knights, after all, had a

desire to spend their festival days tending fevers.

If Sir McRoy possessed anything at all it was a cleaver mind. He graciously bowed and resting one

hand on his sword, and the other behind his back, proceeded to lead the lady the longest possible rout

to the hospital, without looking like he was trying to lead her the longest possible rout to the hospital.He looked at her, with a look of deep concentration on his face for a few moments. "If I may be sobold, my lady, I would venture to say that you are not a fan of the games. Is that not so? And

would it also be true that you have a very caring heart, one, so perturbed by the idea of knights

smashing into each-other with sticks that it drove you away from the sport to help in any way you

can in the local hospital? Might I be correct in those conjectures?" He marveled at that trait,

finding it different from many of the ladies he had spoken to in years past, and at various points in hislife. His longer rout turned out to be a shorter rout than he remembered, for they arrived shortly at it's

gates. he wanted to kick himself for a chance blown, but bowed graciously, "Here you are my lady, aspromised, delivered safe and sound. And, as swords are not allowed inside, I must leave you. But

Perhaps I shall see you again. Fair well Lady Gelfing."Once she had left, McRoy started back for

the arena, Itching for some excitement. He sat down in his seat, and listened as Jack relayed the events

and current scores.

Conscience was struck dumb with silence. Never had a stranger seen beyond her facade so

quickly. Was her control over her outward behaviour slipping? Before she could answer any of the

knight's questions, they arrived at the hospital and he was gone."Thank you, Sir knight." She calledout belatedly. It occurred to her that she had not learned his name. That was well enough. It was

possible enough that she would find his name, had she known it, among those of the dead one day

when the knights of her house returned from battle. With an almost imperceptible shake of her headto clear her thoughts, she stepped inside the hospital. After a brief but stern conversation on whether

it was fitting and proper for her to be there, she set to work fetching water, cleaning instruments, and

comforting the sick.


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To the north, smoke rose. The Castle of Brynt, one of the halls of Almont, burned and the walls

crumbled. Women screamed in the streets and men fought desperately against the Knights, who gave

them slaughter. A host of knights and soldiers descended upon the fortress, overwhelming the defensesand sweeping through the town. The flag they bore carried the crest of Gelfing.

A messenger galloped into the arena in Tonsdale, archer drew bows on the man, but the Lords

ordered them to hold. The man had interrupted the charge of two knights. The man's face was pale, butcovered in ash, and blood, he clutched a deep wound on his arms as he led his horse to the center and

addressed Lord Almont. "My lord...Brynt burns, the fortress has fallen to the hands of Knights ofGelfing. They were led by Drosif Gelfing...The Lord's son..." At once there were cries of outrage,and the knights of every house jumped to their feet, heading to their camps. All knew this was war, all

knew sides would be taken, though bloodshed was strictly forbidden in the city. The Lords rose and

went to the place of meeting, and barred the doors. Outside, the games were over, This was thebeginning of war.

Conscience turned her head from the bandages she was washing. A great commotion had arisen

in the streets, as the crowds who had gathered for the games fled. A man stuck his head through thehospital door. "House Gelfing's attacked House Almont!"He cried. "The knights're preparing fer war."

Conscience nearly dropped the clean bandages onto the floor. Was this news true? Setting the bandages

down, she strode over to the man before he could dissappear out the door."What is the meaning ofthis?" She demanded imperiously."What has happened? Explain yourself!"

The man gulped. "One of Lord Gelfing's sons, Drosif, laid siege to the Castle of Brynt. If ye

ain't from around here, missy, ye'd best be off. War talk makes a dangerous town." Conscience watchedas the man scrambled away. Drosif had attack another house? What had her brother been thinking? No

matter. She would need to get back to her family quickly. Her heart flipped over in her chest. How

many would fall in the coming war? She all but ran towards the Gelfing camp.

McRoy burst into his tent, and went immediately to his Armor chest. Jack was hot on his heels,

and ready to help him. He changed tunics and slid into the heady chainmail tunic and coif. Jack buckled

on his grieves while he put the breastplate over his head, and buckled his sword onto his waist. Jackbuckled on the bracers, and pauldrons, then stepped back, looking over the knights that stood before

him.

Sir, Lord Theoril calls all the nights to his tent when they are ready for battle. Good luck sir, I shallawait your return.

Lord Theoril sat on his thrown in the large tent, the first three lines of knights knelt on one knee

while the next two stood, so all could see and hear. McRoy was in the third row, on one knee close tothe middle, he could see the Lord perfectly. this was the closest he had been since the knighting. The

Middle aged man looked at all the faces, once the last few nights had arrived. "My knights...It painsmy heart that this happy time must be so abruptly brought to an end. But long held alliances

stand. There has been peace in our lands for six years, but no longer. My alliances lie, as my

father's did, with Almont. Brynt is lost, but our scouts report that Drosif's army moves south,

towards our own castle Malnor. Lord Gelfing is displeased with his son for the attack, and so is

not sending troops to aid until his son requests it. We will move to battle Drosif at the mouth of

the crossvalley. It is seven hours from here, we may well meet in battle this very night. Go now

and make ready, we leave on the hour.

Conscience grimly helped the ladies of the house to pack their things. Most of them would

return to the Castle Aelae as soon as possible, as would the children who had come for the

festivities, but it was her hope to stay behind in the camp. She had overheard from the knights


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that her brother had acted out of his own accord, and her father was displeased. This did not

bode well. Her brother was prideful, and would likely lead all of his men to their deaths before

admitting error and asking his father for reinforcements. She left the women to do their own

packing. She had her own tasks to accomplish.

"Is this all the room we can spare from the camp? Surely with so many of the ladies

leaving, we could expand this to fit at least five more beds." Conscience surveyed the area set

aside for the infirmary. It was not as large as she could have liked, but it would have to do."Leave that bottle be." Conscience spoke coldly to one of the younger men of the camp, and

snatched a bottle of brandy from his grasp. "These spirits are to be saved for doctoring, and you

are neither sick nor wounded."

McRoy worked feverishly, packing his things onto the cart provided for him. The Theoril camp

was a buzz with activity, and within a short half hour the camp was no more, transformed into a longline of horses, carts and soldiers. McRoy sat in his saddle, with no helmet on. He looked towards the

Gelfing camp, thinking of Conscience. He looked over at Jack who seemed to always know what he

was thinking.Go on then, I'll cover for you sir.

Jack, you are a man among men. I'll return.He spurred his horse in the direction of the Gelfing camp, not looking over his shoulder. He was

cut off by three slightly elder knights. "Sir McRoy, where are you headed with such short time before

our departure?"The lead man said scoffing. McRoy manuvered around, smirking, "I myself have acertain Lady of Gelfing to bid fairwell to before I go. I told her I would see her again, and so I shall."

The three looked at each other in shock, then a plan formed between them. They watched as McRoy

entered the camp, then followed him from a distance. My Lady Gelfing, I am sorry if I startled you, Iam a man of my word, and so I came to find you. I told you I would see you again.

Conscience thrust several rolls of bandages at the newcomer to the tent, not looking at his face.

"Hold these."She said. She threw the newcomer a glance, and dropped the instruments she had beencarrying in her other hand out of shock. It was the knight of Theoril who had escorted her to the town

hospital earlier. She picked up the instruments as he spoke, regaining her composure. "It is quite

alright. The fault is mine for being easily startled." His presence in the Gelfing camp confused her. As aknight of Theoril, would not he soon be riding against her brother? it seemed a strange thing that he

would come so close to battle simply to see her again. She placed a disinterested look upon her face

and questioned him on the matter. "It is well and good to keep one's word. You have seen me again,now what do you intend?"

He smiled as the bandages were shoved into his hands, but put them on the nearest table when sherealized who was standing before her. The question caught McRoy by surprise. He had not really

thought past seeing her. He cursed himself as he felt his face flush with slight embarrassment, so he

quickly made a reason and went with it. Oh, my lady. Is it such a crime for a knight to want to see the

fairest woman in the land before he marches to war, not knowing what the outcome will be? Nay, Ithink not. But since you have requested an intent, it is merely that I might kiss that fare hand of she

who I hope to see again.

He Bowed graciously, hoping she would grant him that. Out side the tent the three other knightshid behind some carts, listening. McRoy has a silver tongue, perhaps the Lady will grant him such a

well worded request. But quiet, for we must move fast, and accurately, for when he leaves the tent and

rides back to the line we shall enter, and take a true trophy of war, perhaps she can be a bargaining chipfor our Lord.

Conscience's mouth twitched upwards. "It is no crime." She said. She smoothed her expression


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out once more into neutral."Although it is strange that you would ride into Gelfing's camp when you

are surely to ride against my brother soon. And if you are seeking the fairest woman in the land, there

are many to whom I could point you in this camp who are far more deserving of the title. I am quite

sure, Sir knight, that they would grace you with a maidenly blush, and perhaps a swoon for yourwords."All the same, she extended her hand."I cannot say if I should hope to see you again, Sir knight.

For while it would suit me ill for you to fall in battle, it would suit be worse to set eyes upon one who

might have slain my brother or his knights." Conscience felt her heart turn disgustingly in her chest.The same feelings filled her every time the knights of her House rode out to battle. Which of them

would return?

McRoy grinned, then kissed her hand softly. As he straitened, the gravity of her words sunk in,

and he adopted a much more serious face and tone. My Lady...I am Sir McRoy, a Knight of Theoril. It

grieves my heart that we may well be enemies by nightfall, for we are soon to meet your brother inbattle. But know that you shall never be an enemy in my eyes, nor do I grudge your brother personally,

but it is my duty to fight along side my House's ally, and I will do so in order to protect my brothers in

arms. I bid thee fair well, and I hope that you will not hold a grudge against me for fighting for my

Lord. He bowed, and turned, going to his horse, and mounting. He looked one last time at the tent, thenspurred his horse and rode back to the Theoril line.

The other three knights, seeing he was gone, slipped in through the back of the tent, moving

quickly but quietly. Two had rope, and one had a strip of cloth and a sack. They jumped her frombehind, simultaneously gagging her and binding her wrists and ankles. Then threw the sack over her

head. A fine prize she makes, but quickly, back to the line and to our Cart, to stow our prisoner away

fromyoungeyes. they mounted their horses, throwing Conscience over the lead horse and gallopedback to the line, and placed her under some tents in one of the carts.

"Fare thee well, Sir McRoy."Conscience watched Sir McRoy leave with a trace of sadness in

her eyes. Now that she knew his name, it would make it all the harder if he were to fall in battle. Beforeshe could return to her work, she was seized. She tried to cry out, but the sound was blocked. She

struggled, but then darkness covered her as a sack went over her head. She felt herself lifted and thrown

over a horse.Fool girl! She scolded herself. To let yourself be distracted by flattering words while allthe while the flatterer's accomplices lay in wait to take you hostage. You are a disgrace to House

Gelfing.

Conscience took a deep breath, a difficult task while thrown over a horses back. How far wouldthey ride? More to the point, how had they escaped the camp unnoticed? Her kidnappers had timed

their departure well. They must have ridden out through the recently vacated ladies' camp, and so none

were about to notice. That being the case, she would have to get out of this unseemly situation herself.She felt herself lifted from the horse, and stowed in a cart under a great deal of canvas. Tents, then? She

wiggled around, trying to get into an upright position, but largely failed.

McRoy, who had not a clue what the three knights had done, only moments after his departure.He rode back to the lie, now preparing himself for the battle that was to come. A little over half an hour

later the Line started off. The pace was slow and McRoy found himself thinking of Lady Gelfing. How

did women have such an effect on him, he had seen her only thrice in his life and yet he could not thinkof anything else. He wondered what had inspired her brother to start this war, and how many innocent

lives he had taken at Brynt. When he thought about it that way, he had no doubt that if he were given

the chance, he would put justice first and end the murderer's life.The day grew darker, but just before sunset the Knights of Theoril arrived at the place where

they would meet Gelfing and his troops. They pitched camp. Now the Lord found out about the

kidnapping of the daughter of Lord Gelfing.


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You three are fools, cowards and are a shame to my knights, how could you do such an ignorant

and idiotic thing!"He roared, flipping a table over in his tent. The three knights stood, heads down in

shame, for the plan they had not seen all the angles to. The lord fumed. he paced back and forth in his

tent, looking from the three, to the sides of the tent, then back. "Do you realize what this could do? Wecould have crushed the insolent son and been done with this war, but now, Lord Gelfing shall surely be

enraged and match to retrieve his daughter. You three are hereby stripped of your nighthood, and will

be set in the stocks for the remainder of our tour, then you will serve ten years as slaves in the sweathouses. Guards, strip them of their armor and bring my Lady Gelfing."He waited until she was brought

in, going to her with a sincere look and taking her hand, implored her. Lady Gelfing, I offer by deepest

apologies. I knew nothing of this senseless plot against you. I have had the three men responsiblepunished, and I assure you you will have as much comfort as we can give while we arrange your return.

You will be under the guard of one of my Knights, Sir McRoy, he is honorable and true, and he will do

anything you need. "He gave orders for a tent to be pitched with all the furs of the three knights to betaken there and for the furniture to be as comfortable as possible, and for McRoy to be informed of his

new duty.

"I thank you for your kindness, Lord Theoril, though I fear it is undeserved."Conscience said,and dipped into a low curtsy. She rose, her mouth turning upward in a wry smile at the mention of Sir

McRoy. Despite Lord Theoril's praises of him, she was not entirely convinced of his innocence in the

matter. The timing between his departure and her kidnapping had simply been too convenient, and hiswords too flattering for her to trust he had been naive of the plan. "I am sure he is most worthy of your

praises, my lord, as are all the noble knights of House Theoril."Conscience said, and curtsied again

before being led from his presence. She would discover for herself, in time, whether the lord's praisesof Sir McRoy as an honorable knight rang true. As she was walking towards the site where her tent was

to be set up, she caught sight of Sir McRoy."Sir McRoy!" She called out, and approached him."While I

bore hope that I might see you again, I must confess I did not think it would happen so soon."

McRoy had not yet gotten the memo of his new assignment, and was on his way to the

blacksmith's to have his sword sharpened when a woman's voice hailed him. That's odd, I don't

remember any women in the lie... He thought, looking for the face to put with the voice. His eyeslanded on Conscience. He stood for a moment, not fully comprehending how the lady should be

standing there. "But...How...why...It is a pleasure of course Milady, but..." He was cut off by two of the

royal guard grabbing him by the arm and talking in low voices. they looked intently at him, thenpointed to her a few times, then the senior of the two slapped him on the back with a clang of hand on

breastplate. McRoy looked down at the sword in his hands, then replaced it in it's scabbard on his side.

"My Lady Gelfing, you must excuse my fowl tongue, but...Those bastards...Were you hurt? are yourwrists injured from the ropes and the long ride?Do you require anything?" He seemed truly distraught

at what the other men had done, and placed himself on a mission to be the most loyal bodyguard and

servant that a Knight of Theoril could manage.

"I thank you for your concern, Sir McRoy."Conscience said. Although her voice did not betray

it, she was slightly amused by the knight's apparent distress over her condition. It did not seem quite

believable that any man would be so attentive to her well-being. "I am unharmed. It would requiremore than an attempted kidnapping to break a lady of House Gelfing." Her mouth twitched upward. "I

fear, however, that I have caused you some distress, and that I may be taking your valuable time. Surely

you have much to do before you ride to battle?" Conscience paused in thought. Comfort was well andgood, as was returning to her own House, but she had no mind to sit idly by in the meantime. "Perhaps

there is some task I could assist you with?"


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McRoy looked down slightly, bowing a little. "Lady Conscience...I-...I know your heart for the

wounded, and ill. Before my reassignment to you I was to oversee the distribution and set up of the

medical tent. It would be an honor to have one as knowledgeable and skilled as you directing the effort.

Do you not think?" He said, bowing and giving a sweep of the hand in the direction of the site.Drosif Gelfing sat on his horse, watching as the camp expanded. Behind him twenty knights and

two hundred soldiers sat on their horses, or crouched in the grass. He looked over at his right had, Sir

Melbain, his personal captain looked back. "So Theoril moves to stop me. Let us pay them a visit as wedid the Castle Brynt."

The charge was not called, a hand was waved forward and the whole groups slowly and quietly

advanced. Not quiet enough though, one of the scouts, who had been sleeping, awoke to the sound of ahorses grunt in the darkness. he squinted and searched, then caught sight of the glinting armor. "To

Arms! Gelfing advances! To Ar-" his cry was cut short by the arrow that buried itself into his throat.

Drosif drew his sword and roared with a mighty battle cry, and led the charge into the torch litcamp. The Theoril nights had enough warning though, and were ready for the charge. From where

McRoy and the Lady walked, the sound of crashing metal sounded the beginning of the battle.

"You flatter me, my lord." Conscience replied. "It would bring me great pleasure to do so,though I hope my services will not be overneeded."Conscience turned her head in alarm as the sounds

of battle began. Was her brother attacking? The fool! How many lives would be lost on both sides from

his need for combat? Conscience turned to move, for she thought she should prepare the infirmary assoon as she could. Then she stopped. Perhaps? No, it was a foolish notion, and would likely only get

her killed. But if there was any chance of success, would it be worth the risk? Surely the men of House

Gelfing, even if they were with her brother, would know her and let her pass. Perhaps if she couldreach her brother, she could put an end to his folly. He was hotheaded, but not completely irrational.

While she had not been as close to him as she had her other brothers, she loved him none the less.

Fool girl! She scolded herself. You are wasting time and lives. Do it or do not, but make a

decision!Conscience set her mouth grimly, and turned back to face Sir McRoy. "My lord, before Iattend to the wounded, I would beg a favour of you. Have you a horse I might ride?"

McRoy gritted his teeth, he could guess what she planed to do. But it was his duty to protecther, and do as she wished. "Yes Lady Conscience. Right this way. But know that where you plan to

venture is hell itself. I will be by your side the whole way." He took her to his tent and gave her one of

the three knight's horses, then mounted his own. He pulled the chain hood over his head and put on hishelmet. "Come My lady, before the death toll becomes too great."

Gelfing had been taking ground, pushing the Theoril knights back into the camp, but only until

the Lord entered the battlefield. Dressed in his battle armor and gilded helmet gleaming, he charged hishorse into The enemy army, leading from the front to push back. He was a terrible sight to behold, for

none in the the army could best him with a sword.

McRoy spurred his horse to clear a path for Conscience. He ducked under an enemy knight's

swing with an ax, then thrust forward, driving his sword into the man's breastplate. He pulled theshining blade out red, as the other man slumped over and crashed to the ground, McRoy moved a little

further, hacking down as some soldiers's helmets, splittings metal and bone in one swing. He could see

Drofis now, only a matter of yards away, he looked back and whirled his horse to stop one of his ownmen from attacking the Lady. A gap opened for Conscience to get through, "Now My Lady,

go!" McRoy yelled, blocking a blow from a Gelfing knight, then returning several blows and again

besting his opponent with a killing blow.

Conscience winced at the gore around her. There were so many she could not heal here, but

worse were the ones she might save if she had the time. Perhaps her foolhardy errand would cost more


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lives than had she stayed in the infirmary.For shame! Ride on, if you are truly a Gelfing. She broke

away from Sir McRoy wordlessly. She would thank him if she returned, and if he still lived. Her heart

pounded in her chest. Her brother must be close, for he always boasted of leading charges. There,

ahead!"Drosif Gelfing!" She called out. Her brother had not seen her yet. She rode closer. As he killed

an unfortunate Theoril knight, he looked out of his helm, scanning the field. There! She was certain he

had seen her. She rode closer still. "Brother, you must hold! What would you do to the honour of HouseGelfing? Will you trade so many lives for the chance to boast around a fire of how many lives you have

taken?" She pleaded now. "Brother, what has spurred you to this? Do you think to stand alone against

the armies of two houses? I beg of you, give thought to me, I who love you and your men."

McRoy watched as The lady made her way to her brother, though her words were lost in the din

of the battle. He dismounted to fight on foot, for he was far better. He took on three Gelfing soldiers, allarmed with pikes. Hey tried to stop the Knight's approach, but he walked forward unafraid. He swiped

the shaft of one in two with a blow of his sword, then brought his sword across the man's chest. The

chainmail tunic was no match for the tempered steel blade with sheared though it and into the flesh.

McRoy whirled and blocked a blow to the head, and kicked the man back, unfortunately into his fellowsoldier's oncoming blow. McRoy brought his sword down onto the man's shoulder, then pulled his

sword out of the man.

Drofis looked at his sister,How could she be here, no matter...She is a fool Just like our father."Why does my sister stray onto her brother's field? Why does she speak foolish, childish words? He

rode his hosr over until he was beside her, talking close. I will be victorious, I will take the thrown as

ruler of this Land! I will not let you, nor anyone else stop me! Now get out of my way else I cut youdown like the rest of thes-" He raised his sword to strike her, but there came a whirling sound and then

a scraping of metal. McRoy stood a few yards away, empty handed, arm outstretched. His sword was

planted halfway up the blade in Drofis's chest.

The melee stopped up and down the line as all eyes turned to see the man fall. His sword hit theground before his body, and his eyes were fixed ahead. The Knights of Theoril gave a loud shout,

thrusting weapons at the Gelfing Knights, who dropped their weapons, commander defeated.

"My brother." Conscience stood in shock for a moment. "You were a fool."She knelt to remove

his helmet, setting it on the grass and placing her hand on his forehead. Her brother had tried to kill her,

but her mind flew instead to softer memories. Her brother taking her to the woods to teach her how toshoot game and climb trees, or the time when she was only three, and he had spent so long searching

the woods for her lost doll that she had started to worry he wouldn't be coming home. She closed his

eyes gently. "A crazy, mad fool."Her eyes began to fill with tears, but the sound of clanking armourdrew her back to her surroundings. She had work here to do.

"You..." She began. "You have saved my life, Sir McRoy, and I thank you. I am now in your

debt twice over, for my life and the for use of your horse." She surveyed the scene around her. Several

of the knights and soldiers, she knew, were too far along to be moved, but perhaps not to far to besaved."If I could fetch supplies from the infirmary, I could begin to tend the wounded. There is much to

be done here."

The knight shook his head, bowing yet again. "A Lady is never indebted to me. You do not owe

what was given as a gift. The nurses approach as we speak, The will be here soon-- My Lord."

Nurses with boxes of supplies and stretchers ran onto the field, and started looking at woulds, decidingwho could be saved, and who was too far gone.

Lord Theoril had watched the events unfold, and now approached on his white steed. The Lord

spoke, "That was a very daring thing you did Lady Gelfing. I am sorry for your loss, but grateful that


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the bloodshed was stopped. Already I have lost a few great men this night. And Sir McRoy, You have

proved yourself both true in task, and true in battle, slaying your enemy while protecting your charge.

You are to be commended, and and extra portion of the winnings shall go to you. Now I must speak

terms with the Gelfing captain, if you will excuse me."McRoy knelt on one knee, bowing. "Thank you my Lord. Your praise is too great." Once he was

gone, McRoy stepped over to Drofis's body, and pulled out his sword as respectfully as possible. After

sheathing it, he knelt beside the man, rolling him onto his back and closing his eyes. He placed hissword on his chest, and moved his arms across his chest. he placed the helmet at his feet and stood. He

hoped Conscience could forgive him. but there were wounded to be cared for, so he turned and went to

aid the effort in any way he could.

Conscience curtsied. "I thank you, Sir McRoy. And I thank you, Lord Gelfing. I only wish that

neither side had suffered loss. If you will excuse my absence." Conscience went to the nurses as theyarrived, taking supplies from them. She moved across the battlefield, bandaging and stitching wounds,

helping to remove armour, and sitting with the dying. She had learned no knight wished to suffer

through their end alone, even the most prideful. The worst to watch, and yet the easiest to comfort,

were those who ended their time on Earth in a delirium. They wished so strongly to see those theyloved that they often imagined her to be someone else, whether a mother, daughter, childhood friend, or

at times even a sweetheart. If she pretended to be another person to comfort them in their death, she

thought it no great sin."Yes, father."She said to an elder knight of House Theoril. "Peace now. Rest, for you have

fought bravely and honourably." The knight closed his eyes as Conscience released his hand. She

moved to another knight, who it appeared had taken a bludgeon to the chest."Lie still." She said softly,and began to remove his chest plate and helmet, setting them beside him. It was fortunate he was not

wearing chain mail, for that would have taken more time, and might have harmed him further had any

rings broken. She unbuttoned the front of the man's gambison so that his chest was restricted only by

his tunic. She put an ear to his chest."Take a slow breath."

For hours the Knights of Theoril and of Gelfing assisted in the mending of the wounded, and

preparation of the dead. The crescent moon was high in the sky when the last man was finishedbeing treated and the camp was quiet. The Gelfing knights had declared a truce with Lord Theoril,

and had pitched their tents alongside the main camp. The battle over, many knights from both sides

sat around fires and exchanged stories of battles fought in days past.Sir McRoy washed his bloody hands off after holding a man down while the sword wound

was stitched up. He wandered the camp for a few minutes, then went to his tent, which had been set

up beside Conscience's. He lit the lamp in side but dismissed Jack for the night, we wanted to takehis armor off himself. He unbuckled the bracers and put them on the table, they would need to be

cleaned from the dried blood that spattered now every piece of his armor. He slowly removed every

piece, inspecting it for any damage, then sat on his bed. He rolled his shouldered painfully aware of

how sore he was already, and how much more so he would be in the morning. He listened to thesounds of the camp, and he reflected on the day's events.

When at last each wound was seen to, and all the dying were prepared for burial, Consciencereturned to her tent. It had been a long, strange, and overly eventful day. A war had started and

ended, her brother had tried to kill her, and now lay dead. Without a mind of anything else, she

collapsed on her cot into a deep sleep. When morning arose, she would find more work to keepherself busy, and prepare with House Gelfing to return to their lands. For now, however, she was

taken by the land of dreams, and did not intend to return any time soon.


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-Chapter 1-

The Battle of Tonsdale

The town's inhabitants had not deserted, for there was no where to go. Marks Theoril, thelord's second son, had his army camped the the east of the city. He had sixty knights and four

hundred soldiers with him, all well provisioned, and dressed for the winter, which grew closer everyday. The Seven, one of the bands of Elnor Knights, had broken through the Almont defenses and set

up a foothold on the south side of the city. General Alrist of Gelfing moved his army of thirty knights

and four hundred soldiers into the city to fortify the Seven. The Almont army at Tonsdale was fifty

knights and two hundred soldiers strong.

McRoy sharpened his sword as he sat by the fire. He would take it to the blacksmith to be

finished, but he could do the rough sharpening himself. The wetstone ground down the blade underhis well practice had, leaving the strip of metal ringing. The sky seemed low, and grey, as the winter

approached. It brought a biting wind with it, so the Theoril camp was set up to block the wind, asmuch as possible for the troops inside. He looked down the blade, mind wandering over the past tenmonths. most was spent traveling, or practicing. But he had fought in six battles now, since the first

that fateful summer night. He thought of Conscience Gelfing, and wondered if she were in the city,

or if she was back in the Gelfing's halls. Knowing her she would be where the battle was so she

could mend the men who came back hacked and mangled, or sit with those less fortunate in their lastmoments. He wished he could see her again, She had been the object of his thought for long months

now.

Sir Warren lazily rode his horse across an empty valley, not realizing he was right smack dab

in the middle of a soon-to-be battlefield. He leaned over and calmly spoke into his horses ear."Don't

worry Emperor, I'll find you a watering hole soon."The horse made a noise, indicating that itunderstood him. Warren looked ahead of him, and he could just barely see a camp off in the distance.

He rode up to it. As he strolled through he noticed that half the men were glaring at him, the other

half looked confused. He found the camp watering hole, he took Emperor over to it, he didn't need to

hitch him, his horse was faithful. Emperor bent down and began to drink, lapping up water with histongue. He then cupped so water with his hand and drank for himself. He pulled a rag out of his

pocket, soaked it, and began watering Emperor down, the horse had been riding for 2 weeks straight.

After he was done."Alright Emperor, you can take it easy."The horse folded it's knees in and laid onthe ground. He removed the saddle and the pack from him. Warren looked behind him, dozens of

men stood their, swords drawn. Then he notice why, they were Theoril soldiers, he was wearing

Elndor Armor."Boys boys, no need to start a squabble. I was just strolling through."A big soldier

stepped forward."We ain't gonna have Elndor scum like you dirtyin are water."Then the big lugopened his mouth again."By the way, why ain't you got dark like the rest of Elndor?"Sir Warren

sighed."I don't usually share my life's story with pack mules who call me scum but okay. I wasknighted in Elndor, I'm not from there."The big man looked more confused."Elndor is a very

traditional kingdom, they only knight natives."Sir Warren smiled."And?"

Sir McRoy stood, stretching from his hunched positions. The blade now had a strong shapeedge all the way around, and as few nicks as he could manage. He would take it to the blacksmith

later. He closed his eyes and listed with pleasure to the sound of the blade sliding into it's scabbard.


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He was about to let his mind wander back to it's previous concentration, when He heard a

commotion further into camp. He walked quickly over to the watering whole for the horses, from

which the fuss seemed to be coming. To his great surprise, there was a Knight of Elnor sitting by a

horse. It did not surprise him who was berating him. "Sergeant McClellan. A Knight is a Knight nomatter who his loyalties are too, and as such you will give him the respect he is due. He has not met

you on the field of battle, and Should he, knowing the Knights of Elnor, I very much doubt you

would be the winner of that confrontation."The solders around snapped to attention when the Knight walked up, and the large sergeant

looked stone faced as he received his reproving. Sir McRoy nodded at the Knight, "Good sir, I am Sir

McRoy of Theoril, welcome to our camp, Are you hungry, thisty? or provisions are waiting forresupply, but we have enough to share with a guest. I am curious of some things and much desire to sit

and talk."

Warren opened his mouth."My horse needs some rest, and I could use some ale. I would

gladly sit with you and answer any question needed." He followed the knight over to a fire outside of

a large, private, tent. The knight had called a maiden to fetch some ale. He poured himself a cup and

took a swig."I am quite surprised. Last I heard Elndor and Theoril were not the best of friends."

After the ale and warm loaves of bread came, McRoy sat down on the stump by the fire. He

saw that the Elnor knight had all he needed, then began. "We aren't. I am guessing by your actionsyou do not know what has happened these past few months...Well. Back at the games one of the sons

of Lord Theoril took a host of knights and sacked the castle Brynt. Our forces moved to stop him and

I slew him in battle. Well, turns out while we were off trying to stop a war, one of your knights wendand assassinated Lord Almont. Things fell apart quickly. Now, here we all are at Tonsdale. Almont

and his men hold the city, Lord Theoril aids Elnor, and The Seven, you know, Elnor knights, have

broken through the Almont defenses. The knights of Theoril move into the city to fortify the Seven,

and We move to stop them. I can not say I wish you were not here, but I will not kill any man in coldblood. I fear though we sit and talk now, come nightfall we will be enemies."McRoy took a large

gulp of ale and a bite of bread, staring over the fire at the Knight in dark Armor

Warren chuckled."Sir Knight, before you go off slaying me, know that I no longer serve

Elndor. The tyrant Lord Elndor, betrayed me. How he betrayed me, I'm afraid I can't tell you that, but

just know, I serve no one, technically, I'm an exile. I will wait for my horse to rest, and I will leave."He chugged the contents of his mug and poured more."Now I have a question for you. Do you think

the House Of Theoril would mind if I take refuge at their capital."He needed a place to lay down

roots. He saw the knight staring at him."I know your not going to like this but, I know I'm not darkskinned like Elndor people. Technically I'm Gelfing, though I hate to admit it. Do not worry, I have

no intention on serving them either. My father died in battle, betrayed by his commander, my father

wrote my mother before he had fallen, and told of conspiracies among his command. They

discovered that my father had sent those letters and tried to kill my mother, she was pregnant withme at the time, so she fled to Elndor."

Sir McRoy looked over the man as he spoke. The story intrigued him. But and gentlemanwould not pry where another said he did not want to divulge. So he held his tongue from further

questions. Instead he pondered the request made by the Knight across the fire from him. If he

declared he was not of Elnor, then he had no problem accepting him into the halls of Theoril. Thoughhe knew it would take Royal permission. He finished the cup of ale and put it down on the ground

beside him, and after a long sigh of contentment looked back at Sir Warren. "I have not the word to

say you may find refuge. However, If you would join me in battle this night, should the call come, I


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will personally entreat Lady Harte, who is due to arrive with provisions here on the morrow. What

say you Sir...?"

Sir Warren sighed."I greatly wanted to avoid battle.......but if it be the only way, I shall joinyou in battle." He took a piece of bread for himself and ate."Tell me your tactics for the battle, so I

understand what my role is, in this battle."Sir Warren smiled at the cute maiden that came back with

more Ale and bread."What is an angel like you, doing in a war camp?"She blushed and walked away,not answering him.

Felicia was hiding in the near by darkness when she saw a commotion started and the loneman who had been sitting near a tent rised and went to aid to the situation, this was her chance to try

and get some food or any kind of materials she needed, she was a thief after all. She scurried like a

swift mouse across the grass trying to keep her legs apart and her armor from clanging together andcrouched down where the man sat and searched for anything she could find that would be useful or

valuable.

She peered at the shape of what seemed to be a sword and picked it up getting ready to swipe

it from its owner when now two came back. She gasped and dropped it and moved to the other sideof the tent which wasnt far from them but still they couldnt see her, she hoped they would just sit and

thats exactly what they did. She had been holding her breath the whole time and let out a quiet sigh

and realised it was very much cold out here and could see her own white smokey breath.She listened on to what they were saying and got some information, none that was

particularly useful to her but to others maybe. "Hmph, maybe i should take up spying as another

job...seems like im good enough at it." She spoke in her mind with a smirk on her face. It seemed likeshe spoke too soon and she smelt the food that suddenly seemed to appear and her stomach decided

to grant karma on her by belching out a grand grumble and gurgle and she covered her mouth and

her stomach. "Shit!" She whispered and glared at her armor covered belly. She hoped they didnt hear

that, she didnt want to have to kill anyone tonight and was far too hungry to waste any more energy.She had her hand grasp her sword on her right side and prepared her self, had she needed to defend

herself she would be ready.

McRoy pulled a map out of a bag in his tent and sat down beside Sir Warren. He unrolled the

parchment showing a detailed map of Tonsdale. He pointed to the positions marked for each army

then explained that they would be entering the city under cover of darkness, via the east gate. theywould move through the back roads to the north side of main street," and engage the Gelfing troops

there, while the Knights of Almont mounted an attack on the Seven of Elnor..." He stopped, he had

heard a noise behind the tent. A belch? The gurgle of a stomach? He drew in sword, walking readyfor anything that may pop out at him. He was a Knight of Theoril, and now a well renown one for his

skill with a sword. He came around the corner to see a girl, from Gelfing by her hair, she had a

sword in her hand. A spy. He thrust the tip of his sword only inches away from he nose. "Sand, and

into the light, lest I relieve you of your head girl."

Felicia didnt expect to him to get his sword as close to her face as he did, but she wasnt

worried in the lightest since she too had her sword at his chest but then realized that it would do nogood, if she were to lean in to stab him, one it wouldnt go past his armor and two even if it did her

face would have a sword stuck in it. She grumbled and spat to the side keeping her glaring eye on

him. She arose slowly and carefully walking like a stalking lioness into the light."What great manners you have Sir, im simply swooning in my undergarments."She spoke her tone

heavy with sarcasm as her eyes flickered towards the other male that unfortunately joined. "By the

way, i am in no way a spy..i was simply passing by and was unfortunately caught in the wrong place


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in the wrong time, you see. She kept her devious cat like eyes on his weapon arm with a smirk

lingering on her face.

Sir Warren raised his eyebrows at the sight of the female spy. He stood up."Sheathe yourblades, Sir and Lady."He approached the two of them.He smiled at the spy and held out his hand."I

am Sir Warren of Elndor well er- just Sir Warren." He looked so care-free."Sir McRoy, you are being

a rude host, let the lady sit down, so we can have a civilized chat."

Sir McRoy kept his sword leveled at her. "You would do well to put the sword down miss. I

don't believe it belongs to you. Ah, see, that is much better, If a gentleman is what you want..." Histone softened once he saw her put the sword down, and motioned for her to have a seat. "I would be

happy to oblige, but as far as I am concerned, no one who holds a sword is to be treated as a lady."

He called the maiden back and had her bring the girl some ale and bread. McRoy watched her like ahawk, not at all letting his guard down. "Do you have a name miss?" or do you only speak with

growls of the stomach. Tell me, is food so short at the camp of Gelfing that they have to sneak about

to get it?" His whit and perception precede him.

Felicia didnt want to let her sword down but she had no choice but to and she walked toward

the seating area and looked at the boy who presented his hand to her, he was sort of cute in a off way.

But for some reason her glare deepened and she passed by him looking at the palm of his hand andthen her eyes slid back up to his face and she scoffed her arms crossed before her. "How

annoying..how can you do something so foolish. Im surprised youre even living right now. You give

your hand out to a stranger like me? Suppose i grabbed you and held a knife to your throat, thenwhat?" She said out loud. She couldnt help but be so cold to be honest in a way she was being

worried for him, but she wasnt consciously aware of it. She passed him taking seat on the bare floor

bracing her back on the log her arms sprawled out to the sides of her.

She looked at the woman up and down and was tempted to reject the food afraid it waspoisoned but her stomach obliged. She snatched the loaf of bread and took the ale not at all happy

right now. "Well first of all village idiotShe spat the words at him violently and paused before

continuing her sentance. "You see that sword there? The one i unwillingly let out of my hand..im itsrightful owner, and i have been for 14 years now. I may be a thief but that there sword..is the one

thing i can call my own. So lets get that straight first." She bit into the loaf of bread and chewed

violently too hungry to go on with her quarrel with out sustenance. "And..my name is Felica, Felicaof Gelfing and no, i wasnt here to steal your feeble cattle food i came to steal your stuff, because i

can and i just felt like it. My actions dont represent all Gelfings, and if you think that way well then i

guess i am to assume all people of Theoril are babbling buffoons."She let out her steam andcontinued to eat and drank her ale.

Durzo walked through the camp, he had prepared for days and he was restless as he walked through thecamp a mint sprig hanging on his lip. Rolling his neck Durzo sighs and walks along the rows of tents, Durzo stopshearing voices in one of the larger tents and cocks an eyebrow walking up to the flap. Durzo sweeps his handacross the tent flap and ducks his head in under it curiously,

"well what have we got here~"he coos wickedly as he pulls the flap open and steps in drawing himself to his fullstature as he smirks broadly and looks at the girl sneering as he recognized the armor style she wore as he sawher being dealt with he ignores her and turns and glares at sir Warren as he rests his hand on the broad head ofhis axe cocking an eyebrow at the man as he smirks "what the hell are you looking so calm for..." he sneers andstretches his neck jerking it to the right as he then looks at the two again before looking to McRoy"care to explain

all this mate..."he cocks his eyebrow curiously again confused by this situation.

He chuckled at her comment about putting a knife to his throat."Madam, if you were to do that, I woulddisarm you, and restrain you." He smiled a warm smile at her."I can see your bitter because you are hungry, eatup, I'm pretty sure you are very lady-like with a full belly." Warren had a death wish, he could see she had a lot of


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skill. He could also tell, she was no match for him if she were to try something life threatening towards him. Herefused to show his skill to her though.

Felicia peered over looking at that warren boy and she felt so annoyed by him, why was he smiling shealmost threatened to kill him. She sighed steam emitting from her nose and she continued to eat and was quicklyfinished with her meal."Dont hold your breath..maybe this is just how i naturally act."she mumbled and took herlast drop of ale.To be honest they really were a little short on supplies back at the base and she ventured out to hunt originallybut got a little lost and came across this nest.

She looked up at the heavy set man that came from the tent and she crossed her legs one over the other andbrushed her hair back behind her.She kept quiet and simply observed what would later happen, if she were kicked out she wouldnt care but if shewasnt she would probably stay and gain the trust of a couple mates that lounged around here. The heavy manreminded her of a rhino how he made all those noises, was that how she seemed?

He smiled up a the big man that walked in."Why must you be so angry. Anger is such an ugly thing."Hethen turned his attention back to the spy."But not even anger could spoil your beauty, My lady." He felt like amatador, tampering with a bull. Although he meant everything he said."Sir McRoy, I assume we will continue ourbattle strategy, in a later, more private time." He said, also with a happy look on his face."Well I do believe wehave some time to spare."He pulled of his black plate armor, he wore a tunic and trousers, he left his armor bootson. His tunic barely hid the muscular stature of him, he was a big man, not quite as big as the brute that hadrudely interrupted them, but big none-the-less.

Sir McRoy did not often lose his cool in the presence of a lady, but this girl flat out made him mad. Hehad sheathed his sword when she sat down, but his hand was on the handle. When she told him his purpose, thepot boiled over. he kicked the cup out of her hand, and bent down close, growling through clenched jaw, "I couldhave you hanged on mere suspicion of espionage, I give the word and you would dance your last dance. I shouldhave your hand for thievery, but i will be merciful. Know this: If you ever. and I mean ever, speak to me, or anyother knight, is such a tone i will not hesitate to throw you in a dungeon for the rest of your life." He stood, andwalked to where Sir Keswick was standing. "Hold brother, he is a friend, He says he no longer serves Elnor, andthat is good enough for me. Though for you I am not so sure."

Felicia was now flabbergasted, had he no shame? Why was he still going at her although she only sentnasty words to him. She was used to persistent men but it didnt last as long as this. She clenched her jaw andlooked away from the man and twisted off her armor gloves and held her petite hands out to the fire. "Oh bite mewhy dont you." She mumbled under her breath not bothering to look up because she already knew what kind ofexpression he would have. She glanced over at him as he took off his armor. What on earth is he doing, is whatshe wondered her eye brow raised.

Before she knew it her cup flew and she was tried to stand up quickly to give him a punch in head butthe red headed man was in her face shouting at her and it kind of struck a more sensitive nerve and sheremained quiet and sank down into her seat and her cheeks flushed, she was angry but most of all embarrassed,she didnt have any sly remarks and even if she did she would be too afraid to use them right now.She wasnt used to being yelled at in that way and she felt like crying but wouldnt dare do that in front of theseworthless men, they didnt deserve to see her that way.

Sir Warren stood up suddenly."HOLD YOUR TONGUE SIR KNIGHT!!!!!" He settled down a little bit."She maybe Gelfing, but she is still a lady, and lady's have feelings, please Sir Knight be a gentlemen."He was aware how badhe looked in the eyes of the men before him. However he was not going to let them treat a lady like this.He smiledat the spy and winked at her."I am very sorry about my outburst, let us be civilized." He went over and sat by thespy. He looked into her eyes, his face was stone-cold and serious."Before you say anything, know that I may be theonly protection you have." He whispered to her.

Durzo sighs and grumbles as he turns his attention to the girl again he looked her over it wasobvious she was ill-nourished, sighing Durzo grumbles "yes yes McRoy... be lenient... if she was

hunting and her camp is low on suplies i will not judge her..." he sighs and reaches back past his knife

taking a small parcell and tossing it to her as he sighs "eat that... it was some extra rations i had savedup... i know hunger... and i can tell your starving..." he sighs and walks over leaning on the table

fiddling with the mint sprig swirling it around on his lips he looks to the black knight and then to

McRoy "alright... well lets see... i don't trust him... i don't even trust you McRoy... trust is hard earned...you are my ally and from here on as is he... i trust neither of you but i see you as assistance... so i allow

you your time and i don't leave you high and dry..." he sighs and tilts his head back his armor tight

against his thick buffed put body as he sighs and stands again sighing as he hits the papers on the table


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away from the girl "if you suspect her a spy... i don't recommend leaving such things so close..." he

sighs and rolls his eyes again as he relaxes against the table

Felicia was taken back at Warrens response on the matter, she thought he would have just laughed at her,or taken advantage of her while she was quiet and humble for the moment. She bit on the stray skin of her lips ashe approached her, she wasnt very used to close contact without actually being touched, unless she was wrestlingor something of that sort. She sighed and glanced at the boy but soon veered away to the fire not being comfortable

with looking him in the eyes. "Fine...but touch me inappropriately and i might have to break your hands."She saidquietly.Her reflexes caught up with her and she noticed the parcell fly over to her and she caught it with both hands and

surveyed it. She opened it and began eating and she looked over to the man. "Thank you.."She continued and atealmost half of the bag and tied the rest to her side for later on even though her stomach was yet to be full.

Sir Warren nodded at the man who had tossed her the food."That was humble of you sir, thank you." Hethen heard what she said about him touching her inappropriately."My lady, you wound me with such accusations. Iwould never grope a lady...who didn't want me too."He had a sly grin on his face, but he quickly dismissed that."Inall seriousness, I take my Knight-hood very seriously, and I don't appreciate my honor being questioned. I willforgive you, just because I like you."He was sure he was probably going to get a wack upside the head for that one,but he didn't mind. He grabbed his mug and started drinking.

Sir McRoy walked over and drained a full cup of ale in one go, and after placing the empty cup on the

table, seemed much recovered. "Forgive me friends...and miss. I have not been myself this night."

He looked

down at the cup and chuckled,"You know a man of theoril..more sober the more he drinks. But please, Forgive memiss, for yelling, it was unbefitting. I do not give you nearly enough credit, how you snuck into the camp

undetected I can not imagine, only one of great skill could do such a thing."He sat by the table across fromKeswick, and smiled, at his comments, then replaced it with mock hurt feeling. "Sir Keswick, how many battleswith we have to fight in togeather before I ear your trust? let us not forget back at Brynt, the man with no ears?who almost took your head off? and need I remind you you are in mycamp and mytent. Ah, it is a lost cause. Buton a more serious note, miss. What did you over hear whilst you lay behind my tent?"

Durzo sighs stepping forwards and standing over the girl he stares down at her as his face hardens andhe pushes the black knight aside. Sighing Durzo spits the mint leaf aside and sighs deeply as he takes his axeheaving it out of its holster on his belt as he places the head of it on her shoulder the blade to her neck as heglares "its odd for a knight to be the one out hunting though... it strikes me as odd... were you truly hunting... Istuck my neck out in speaking out in your sake to McRoy... but if you were spying... you will have far past triedmy trust and patience..." his eyes cold icy blue look at her as he glares and squats a bit evening his head with

hers with his axe in his left hand as he glowers at her "now i want you to look me dead in my eyes and tell meyou weren't spying... im not the type to kill a woman without reason... this is a small matter... if you lied... i wouldhappily keep any secrets you heard just that... its hard to speak without a tongue isn't it..." he glares at her anduses the beard of the axe to tilt her chin up to meet his stare, "so..." Durzo demands softly his voice soft butcommanding.

A whack was right, she lifted her hand and tapped the bottom of the cup making a little spill on him, notenough to make him upset she hoped. "I still dont understand you, how does one like someone theyve only metfor a couple of minutes, let alone a person like I." she became quiet after that until Roy spoke again.Felicia didnt want to talk to the buffoon, she would continue to call him that in her mind until she was satisfied, orfound a more humorous name for him, but she was wary not to say it out loud it seemed like he didnt like namecalling very much. She was a little tired from her little voyage to this place. She heard him commend her onbeing able to sneak in. "To be honest it wasnt all that hard..i advise you step up security or maybe im just thatgood.." She really didnt want to talk to him any more than she did just now but he asked her a serious questionand one that she couldn't leave un answered if she wanted to sleep here the night. "I assure you i heard nothing

of grave importance, just talk of food and the relation ship status between Theoril and Elndor..something i thinkwe all already know of...So would you please drop the spy accusations, ive become bored of the title."Her eyes didnt have a hint of shock or fear, by now she was used to having weapons pulled on her, shecomfortably let her head rest on the axe and licked her lips prepping to speak slow to this one, he seemed like heneeded a little special assistance. She looked up at him her eyes not even blinking as she stared at him. "I..amnot...a bloody spy, for the last fuc-." She was shoved aside and she looked over to where she was and saw warrenin her place.

It was one thing to shove him aside, but put a blade to a lady's neck? That crossed the line. Warren tookthe lady's place at the head of the axe. He glared at the knight."If you plan on killing someone. Then strike medown sir, leave the lady alone." He turned his head, looking back at the spy, smiling.


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Durzo sighs and accepts the girls words and as the man goes in her place by force he listens to his wordsand he begins to smirk "son i had no intent to kill... if you had listened it was an empty threat... but you aregetting on my nerves... sir... do not tempt me..." Durzo heaves a sigh as he draws the axe up and then slides itdown into its holster glaring as he heaves a sigh and pulls up a chair grumbling a bit to himself as he sighs andturns to McRoy, "do you have a skin of wine friend and you are nearer earning it... but him... i don't like... nowgirl... empty your pouches an pockets... i want to see what you were carrying when you came here..." he bites thecorner of his mouth absentmindedly forgetting he had disposed of the mint

Sir Warren smiled a bright smile."You know, I bet on the inside, your a big softy towards women.

Welcome to the clan brother." He chuckled. He took a seat acting as if nothing had happened."Are we out ofbread?"

She was taken back once again by this one."What the hell do you think youre doing!? Fool! im not somedefenseless girl, god damn it stop treating me like im weak. Im a knight after all i think i can handle this on myown." She clenched her fists that shook ever so lightly and she sighed and grabbed a stick and drew a line inbetween him and her. "Dont cross it." Her attention was taken once again by the axe wielding man and she rolledher eyes and took off her side belt and took out a couple of poisonous darts that looked like tooth picks and handcarved knives along with a couple of shillings that she acquired.She reached at the side of her armored boot and pulled out another small thin blade she used to scale fish. Shedug into her chest armor and took out a key and placed it all in a neat line. "There, you happy?" she sighed andsat back.

When she drew the line he sighed."I was merely offering assistance, and in no way were trying to makeyou look weak, My lady." Warren pepped up again."Well, I feel you good folk could use a break from me, I will gocheck on my horse." He stood up smiling at all of them. He left the tent, then he poked his head back in and

bowed towards Falicia. Then stepping back out. He walked casually towards his horse, staring up at the soon tobe night sky.

Durzo rolls his eyes at the mans smugness and sighs stretching his fingers, Durzo again stretches hisneck and then sighs. "look i don't know if there is more bread I've been in this tent too... why don't you get offyour rump and walk to the mess?" he snaps at the man smugly he heaves a deep angry breath grumbling as heignores the second comment. Durzo once again ignores the man and turns his attention to the pile before him,curiously he takes each dart and bends them rendering them useless then flicking them off into the dirt Durzosighs and ignores the scaling knife recognizing it as one he skips it and takes the carved ones chuckling softly"hmmm nice detailing and such... useless against a real blade but for carvings very nice..." he places them backand takes the key rolling it in his finger as he smirks and cocks an eyebrow "hello there~" he smirks holding it upto her "what is this?" he holds the key towards her and cocks his eyebrow curiously as he shoots a dirty glance atthe man again "sir you clal yourself a gentleman... all you've done is interfere annoy and flirt with this woman... ihave never seen a gentleman that was so pushy to gain a woman's attention let alone affection... now irecommend you go find your bread and allow me to do my job..." he glares before returning his attention to the

girl awaiting her reply concerning the key, where his childhood had raised him keys were important, no lowranking person carried one hidden so well and they often opened otherwise bared doors or chests. Durzo was onhis last nerve with the man and heaved a sigh awaiting the girl.

Sir Warren smiled at his horse, a real smile, not the fake one he gave that brute. "Emperor, such a noblesteed you are. Mightiest war horse in all of the lands."He lay his head on his sleeping horse."What that brutedoesn't realize is, I simply have no care on what he has to say, he just better know I may save his life one day."Hesmiled as he looked up at the sky."I think the spy is coming around to me."He chuckled to himself."Yeah right, shewould slice open my throat before she would feel something like that towards me."He put his hands behind hishead, relaxing, and of course, smiling.

Whist the three of them were squabbling, McRoy had stepped out of the tent to answer a guard who hadasked for him. He listened to the man's message and his face grew grave. After thanking the man and dismissinghim, he called out to Sir Warren who had just left the tent. "Sir Warren, I would dawn your armor, things in the

city have taken a turn for the worse."He stepped inside the tent to speak with Keswick, he pulled him aside andspoke in a low tone, close to his ear. [i]"The Gelfing army had just broken through the Almont line. They havemoved across main street, and are pouring into the east quarter, They will flank you if we do not move to meetthem."[/b] He walked over to his chest and grabbed his helmet and gloves. Then looked at the girl. "Miss, I amgoing to have to ask you to return to the city, or I will be forced to have you imprisoned as a prisoner of war. AndI do not need to remind you what happens to them, as I am sure you did not miss the line of scaffolds on your

way in"He did not want to have to kill her, it would be such a waste of talent.Sir McRoy had called for him to put on his armor. Any humor Sir Warren had in his face, was gone now.

He put on all of his plate, and his helmet, he looked like a demon. He then retrieved his obsidian greatsword thatwas tied to the pack. He holstered it across his back. He then hurried to the tent. "Awaiting orders, Sir." He stoodat attention, all of his training took him over now. He didn't even glance at Falicia, right now he didn't care whatshe was doing.


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Durzo sighs and smirks as he stands and slips the key into the pouch on the back of his belt smirking "i'll

be keeping this miss"he smirks and heaves a deep relaxed sigh as he stretches, Durzo smiles to the woman andcracks his neck one way then the other smirking he tosses her scaling and carved knives to the table beside her"well lets hope not to meet on the field miss... it would be a wicked battle..." he smiles and sighs as he steps outof the flap turning back and looking at her "this is good bye until we meet again then... that is in this life or the

next... i would wish you good luck but that would be wishing bad luck upon myself..."he sneers and laughs softlyas he sighs and turns walking out and to his own tent as he leaves his helmet on the rack disliking restricted

vision as he hefts his shield up and stretches as he smirks and sighs going back to meet with McRoy before thebattle

She watched as warren left the tent and she felt like she went to far with him, was he actually upset? shedidnt actually expect him to abide to her dirt boundary and expected him to do something childish and cleverfinding a way to cross the line but not break her rule. She turned her focus back to him and she just caught theman break her poisonus darts. [color=grey]"Hey hey! i needed that, do you know how hard it was to get that, ihad to forge through the forests for just the right remedies, thats about 4 days of work gone to waste, thanks

pal."She pouted angrily looking down at them. She softened her face when he commented on the hand crafteddaggers she had. "Thanks...theyre my fathers handy work. Its more for show than for actual combat."she saidand he picked up another valuable. She held her hand out for the key.

"Its the key to my heart, what of it?"She smiled, she wasnt serious of course, it was for something far moreimportant.She felt really bad for the kid, he was being picked on so much by Durzo but she didnt want to comment on it,

although she did owe him one.when he returned he was in full armor and she looked over it, it seemed like he was a totally different person, sobrave and savage looking.She realized he didnt give her the time of day now, and it kind of got on her nerves a little. Falicia was one towant what she couldnt have, hence her being a thief.

The Knights of Theoril move into the city, knowing battle will be upon them sooner than they had wished.The Army of Gelfing had made slow progress through the Almont line but there were many casualties on bothsides. The narrow streets are the field and the tall building seem to lean in over the dark ally ways. Dark figurespour into the narrow streets and allies meeting and fighting to the death for supremacy over the city. Most of theKnights have held back on the Gelfing side, letting the soldiers do their job. As the Forces of Theoril join themelee, so too do the Seven.

He could sense Falicia staring, he knew what she was thinking, on the inside he laughed. On the outsidehe remained stone cold and attentive. The way the armor was crafted, there was no possible way anyone couldsee his eyes behind the visor of the helmet. If he looked impressive before, he looked heroic, with a demonicsense.

[color=grey] She watched him take the key and a sense of panic came over her, she tried to interjectand say that she seriously needed that key. If he were to die in battle or be taken hostage she would never get itback from him. That scared her so for this one time she wished him luck in her heart and realized tears hadformed at the sides of her eyes. Very faint but they were there non the less. She stood up and nodded firmlyseeing him off, possibly the last time. She then came to a realization that these men she met tonight wouldnt beguaranteed life and she gave them all a final look before arming herself with her swords and daggers fleeingback to where her people had started battle.They all shouted and did battle calls crying out "For Gelfing! For Gelfing!" She too joined in the chant and ran outto battle, it was so noisy and was heavy of chaos, the nosie of metal clashing, men groaning in pain, horsesneighing as they were arrowed down and sliced.This was all a rush for her and she loved every moment of it, the smell of blood in the air people begging formercy feeling her sword push through flesh and coming out just as easy she smiled the entire time chucklingeven, she had no mercy.She banged metal with more than enough opponents and ducked and dodged inbetween people already fightingand she got nicked a couple of times on her face and had many close calls where he head was nearly sliced cleanoff by higher up horsemen. But she ducked just in time and had a swing at the back of their horses leg makingthem fall down in pain. She felt sorry for these kind beasts, and she personally thought they shouldnt have beenincluded in this but it had to be done. She kept an eye out for any of the three men she met earlier and hopedthat she could avoid all contact with them.

Durzo walks into the tent and sits in a stool laning back as he looks to McRoy as he sighs and relaxes, hisface was visible but he looked excited and thrilled as he smirks and sighs "mmmm i cant wait for it all to

begin~"he smirks and stretches his neck the veins showing as he smirks with a large toothy grin laughing


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truthfully as he smirks and stretches his arms "i haven't had an exciting fight for weeks... i need to get out there..

so McRoy?"he looked to the man, he was under his command he didn't like it but he respected his orders

Warren tore through the Gelfing soldiers like butter. His mind had stopped and his body took over. He wasa merciless killing machine. He plunged his greatsword in the stomach of one soldier, lifting him up, the soldiercried in pain, Sir Warren slammed him into the ground, he slid off his blade with a sickening noise. He chargedanother group of soldiers, killing every single one of them. Behind the group was Falicia, he charged at her, hisvoice was a demonic, his roar was spine chilling. Inches away from her his mind turned on and he stopped, if she

were to strike him down, so be it, he wasn't going to kill her.

She saw Warren in his great armor and raised her sword and swung down hard at a man who chargedafter Warren, she cursed violently like a sailor, she killed one of her men. The man looked up at her confused

blood spewing out form his shoulder.[color=grey]"You idiot! get out of here! I cant protect you..so annoying." Shesaid loudly so he could hear over the noise but not that she was actually angry, she just worried for him. So shemade a run for it in the opposite direction back into the crowd of her men and into separate alleyway where shetook a short breather but not before she was ambushed by a knight whos sword hit the armor of her chestenough for the metal to be pierced but didnt cut her skin. She jumped back and reached for her un decorateddagger and flung it at him hitting him right in between the eyes. She could stay here long but tried to for as longas she could. Since when did she become a wimp, a coward.

Mcroy exited the tent and moved to the column of knights."Kights of Theoril! Knights of Almont! Thisknight, we shed the blood of Elnor and Gelfing, let it run in rivers through the streets of Tonsdale, push them back

to the west side, push them back out of the City. But if need be, Kill every last one of them!"He urged theKnights, before running into the city. He headed down the main road, then turned into a backstreet. there wereGelfing soldiers swarming into it, he put the visor down on his helmet and charged. he ripped through the first onwith his sword and them turned to deflect an oncoming blow. He kicked the man, and turned to lift his sword intothe neck of a third man, before finishing the second. He lifted his shield to parry an ax blow, then swung hard doninto the man's shoulder at the base of the neck. His adrenaline flowed through his body, fueling the blood ragehis people were known for. His vision seemed to grow red as he turned on the next group that entered the narrowpassage. Screams were all that came back out before he emerged on the far side, to confront a Knight of Gelfing.

Durzo Lined up with his men, this battle was a grudge fight, best of all it was in a place no knight knewas well as he did, the capitol, his precious home. Durzo ran in an then turns down an alley as he sprints down ittowards the rear of the army, Durzo came bursting out through a small slightly boarded up alleyway, as he bringsthe axe down on the back of a mans neck the reinforced metal of his shield breaking another mans neck as hisheart throbs in his ears as he begins hacking and slashing through the crowd as he truns defecting and

countering strikes using the beard of his axe to pull away weapons and hook armor to smash the edge of hisshield into the foe. he was hacking and slashing a swaft through the lines progressing towards his own lines again

Before she had run back to the group he had called out."WHY DID YOU SPARE ME!!??" He sounded as ifhe wanted to die. Warren sighed he raised his blade, he saw a man charging at him, his eyes went from pleadingto full of rage. Sir Warren swung his blade over his head and brought it down on the soldier, splitting him in two.He looked over and saw Falicia getting attacked. He roared so loud, some of the men fighting stopped and lookedat him, fear in their eyes. Warren charged at the group, the ground shaking behind him. He grabbed an allysoldier and threw him out of the way. Warren swung his mighty sword, a group of soldiers flew with a gore trailfollowing them. A soldier plunged his sword into Warrens shoulder. He rammed the handle of his sword into thesoldiers eye. He made his way to Falicia he plunged his sword into the ground and grabbed her."WHY DID YOUSPARE ME!???" He ripped his helmet off, his eyes were full of nothing but rage, his face was twisted in anger.

McRoy walked into the the road, striking any soldier that tried to pass hi. His eyes were locked on theKnight of Gelfing. He cut down ten men before the Knight called a stop to his men. The knight stepped forward,

drawing his long-sword from the scabbard he held it in. McRoy had no words for a man he was about to kill. Thesoldiers backed up, not wanting to get caught anywhere near the two knights, but were soon set upon by soldiersof Theoril. As the melee started for the soldiers, both knights charged. Metal claged in the street as sword blowafter sword blow proved both Knights formidable. The Gelfing Knight struck, then feinted striking low and cuttingMcRoy's thigh. He gritted his teeth, then brought the iron bound rim of his shield down on the man's wrists,breaking one, and making him drop his longsword. With a mighty battle cry McRoy drew back, his arm, thenplunged it through the armor and chainmail and into his throat. The man fell backwards ad He pulled the swordback out again. The Gelfing retreat sounded, but that did not stop Sir McRoy from killing any enemy man he couldsee. Twelve more fell to his blade as they retreated.

She looked at him with a angry but confused face, was he not greatful? What was this mans deal, heneeded to get a grip. The man- no the beast in front of her now was not the same man she met at the camp fire


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earlier. Not the same man at all and it pissed her off. She tried to jerk herself loose from his grip but couldnt,instead she swiped her sword and held it to his kneck. She really didnt want to kill him, but if he kept going onthis way she would."Dont yell at me!! You un greatful bastard! I owed you one..I owed you for your kindness back at the camp. So

dont give me your bull shit acting like youre not happy! Dont make me regret it.."She yelled at him her voicehoarse from yelling so loudly.But she soon heard the Gelfing retreat call, she had to go. But he wouldnt let her go. She tugged over and overbit it was still no use so she gave up panting him getting so riled up by him.

Durzo was through the lines in minutes his blade caked in blood small droplets marking his face as heturns roaring as they retreat he turns again and gives chase. Durzo watches as riders gallop through past the footsoldiers, smirking Duzro rushes one pushing his foot off the shield and then head of a foot soldier as he hits therider with his shield seizing the rei

The Knights Whose Armor Shone

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