Tired of Death: Overlord

By Neil Hartley

Dreth is out of the Dungeon, but his adventure has only just begun!

He has to seek out the Overlord, which means a trek overland - and sea - with the Overlord's minions, and plenty of other scheming characters both old and new, out to stop him and his motley group of dead and undead reaching their goal.

Through forest, swamp, city and sea, with evil warriors, necromancers, pirates and even kings along the way, it's certainly not going to be boring!

Tired of Death - Overlord - takes off from where Tired of Death - Dungeon left off.

Not read book 1? Why not? It's free!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Neil Hartley
• Release date: Feb 28, 2011
• ISBN: 9781458049612

Neil Hartley

I write fantasy, horror, sci-fi, comedy and now erotica too!Latest releases:The (erotic) Misadventures of Black Alice - Space Pirate Queen! - Naughty sci-fi.The (erotic) Misadventures of an Alien's Slave. - Very naughty sci-fi.The Lord of All. An epic fantasy tale.The Necromancer's Chronicles - The story of a dark Wizard.

Book preview

Tired of Death – Book 2 - Overlord

by

Neil Hartley

Copyright Neil Hartley

Make sure you read Tired of Death book 1 (Dungeon) first!

It’s free!

Dedicated to my Parents. Thanks for everything M&D.

Thanks also to Billy Isbell and Crunchy for proofreading and critiquing.

Chapter 1 - Village of the Not-Damned.

The screams died down, and a shadowy shape stepped back, the pincers he was holding in one hand dripped with blood.

"Please, I can give you wealth, fame! Anything!" pleaded his victim.

I already have those things, replied the large man. Besides, an example must be made. You were given a solemn duty to oversee this dungeon. You failed. A Dungeon Master cannot be seen to fail. He tested the bonds that tied the former ruler down to his own table.

Well, I’ve never heard of you, said the blood splattered form, somewhat blurrily. What’s your name?

The dark figure drew himself up to his full, impressive, height and spoke in deep, rich, tones.

"I am known by many names across the land. If evil lurks, I am there. Whenever Dark acts are performed, my presence is felt. If cruel and unnecessary violence is required, I’m the one they summon. Should Deeds need to be done, sometimes dirt cheap, look no further. Commoners cower in my presence. Heroes quail before me. I am the bringer of the Dark. The harbinger of Horror! Blood, death and fear follow in my wake. I am… Veronica the Violator!"

There was a short pause.

"Veronica? Veronica?? sneered the DM, spitting out a tooth. What kind of name is that for an Anti-Paladin? he asked. It’s… it’s a girls’ name!"

The Violator growled. "That kind of remark is exactly why I became the evil that I am today. My school chums also made fun of me. He crossed his arms. They do so no more."

Because you killed them all horribly? Hunting them down one by one, killing each in ways too horrible to mention? Each death feeding your lust for blood and revenge until your very soul was steeped in it? The Master would have rubbed his hands together if they weren’t tied, or in one case nailed, down.

Oh, good one, but no. I just lost touch. The Violator waved the pincers about casually. You know how it goes, you move on, drift away. He leaned forward and smiled. "But just wait until next year’s reunion." He threw his head back and laughed, the sound bouncing off the walls.

The Dungeon Master groaned. Is this part of the torture? he asked.

Oh no, I’m just keeping in practice. You need a good evil laugh to be an anti-paladin you know. He stepped back and looked at his reflection in a nearby full length mirror. Do you think this cloak makes me look fat? He swirled said garment around.

Maybe a little, answered the Master. It’s a little hard to see with one of my eyes hanging out.

Ah, yes. Sorry, I get distracted sometimes, said Veronica, still looking in the mirror.

No problem at all, replied the Master. Torture is hard work. You should get up and stretch every twenty minutes you know. RTS* is a real problem.

It’s so true. Not many people appreciate the art nowadays. It’s all… break this bone here, flail the skin off there. No skill any more.

The Master rolled his eye. "Tell me about it. You just can’t get the staff. Do you know I have to give my advanced level guardians a pension plan? I mean come on! What’s evil coming to?"

I agree. Veronica sighed and shook his head. Still, enough of this banter. Where was I?

Working on the fingernails, said the Master helpfully. Good job by the way, I appreciate professionalism. He paused a moment, then added: Though in this case, not as much as usual.

Right, let’s get back to work then. The Violator stepped forward and raised his pliers.

Screams once more echoed through the castle.

*Repetitive Torturing Syndrome

~ * ~

Dreth felt like whistling a little tune as he walked through the woodland. He’d been underground for as long as he could remember, and to be outside again felt good, though it was more agreeable once night fell. He was an evil half dead being after-all. A pleasant stroll in the sunlight didn’t seem right somehow.

You look happy, said Emerald, trying to keep up with him. As far as that frightful grimace can portray such an emotion at least.

And why not? Dreth replied. I’m finally out of my prison, heading off to somewhere that may have my contract, and I’ve outwitted my enemies. What’s not to be happy about?

Well, I’m glad someone’s okay. I still don’t know who I am and where I come from, not to mention what this demonic Being is that’s after my body.

Don’t worry, said Dreth. Once we defeat this Overlord fellow I’m certain I’ll be able to help you.

That’s very generous of you I’m sure, scowled Emerald.

Don’t mention it, Dreth said, waving a hand and ignoring her sarcasm. Hello, what do we have here?

The troop stopped as the woods, which had been slowly getting thinner, came to an abrupt end. They were on a slight hill. Below and ahead of them were lights. Apparently a village was nearby. The land around seemed to be flat, and was probably fields, though it was hard to make out in the dark. A short distance away a narrow dirt lane meandered across their path

Look! Fresh meat! said Cuthbert, pointing at a small group of figures moving slowly along the road a little distance away, towards the settlement.

Hush! Said Dreth. We don’t know who’s around. We’re seriously outnumbered here, even if they are only farmers and the like. I’m sure a couple of walking corpses aren’t exactly going to be welcome.

Typical prejudice, said Percy, crossing his arms.

I’m going to look closer, said Dreth.

No, wait! Emerald held out a hand. You stand out too much, especially in those wizard robes. Let me go and scout it out.

Pausing for a moment, Dreth thought about it, and then nodded. "Very well, but don’t be long. And be careful! Just a quick look and straight back here, understand?"

Emerald signalled she did, and slipped off into the night without any further conversation. She was soon lost to sight.

~ * ~

The Overlord looked up from the latest financial reports as his magical communications mirror flashed red. He waved a hand, activating it. The mist cleared, to reveal a dark figure standing in a laboratory of some kind. Behind the man, sprawled out on a table, a thin body could just be made out. Blood dripped onto to the floor below the mangled corpse.

The deed is done, Veronica said. Your minion has paid for his incompetence in pain and blood. As he screamed in agony I extracted your vengeance, sending a message to all your servants that such ineffectiveness shall not be tolerated. Your name, once more, is enhanced, and my reputation as a true Evil master is intact.

The Overlord groaned, but inwardly, so the Anti-Paladin wouldn’t hear. Very well, but that was the easy task, he said. Your next mission shall not be as simple. Dreth is not stupid, and his form is nearly indestructible.

Never fear! cried The Violator, raising a fist. For I shall overcome all odds, smiting those…

"I have heard, the Overlord quickly cut short the flow, that your prey has been spotted near the local village. You should check in with Adel, the Head woman there."

I know Adel, the Anti-Paladin replied. A woman of fiery spirit. One day I shall take great pleasure in breaking it.

Yes, well, just make sure it’s not today. She’s useful to me. Just get me Dreth.

As you command! Veronica took a deep breath. I shall ride like the wind, letting no…

Silence fell as the Overlord cut the connection. Wishing that his Evil Minions would, just for a change, simply get on with the job without the dramatics. He made a tutting sound and returned to his accounts.

~ * ~

Dreth jerked back to consciousness from the trance-like state he’d drifted in to. It was the closest he could come to sleep, and he’d slipped into it whilst waiting for Emerald. He blinked, more from habit than need, and frowned as he overheard the zombies talking.

Green. Has to be green, Percy was saying.

Oh no, blue ones are the best, for sure, Cuthbert replied.

What are you two talking about? he demanded, looking towards the village. There was no sign of Emerald.

The two turned to him. What colour eyeballs are your favourite? asked Cuthbert. Percy thinks that green taste best, but I personally enjoy blue ones.

Dreth tapped his chin and thought about it. The zombies waited expectantly. I would have to say… brown, he said eventually.

Brown? No way! Both undead chimed together.

Come on! You can’t be serious! Green ones are so… so… Percy struggled to find the words. "Piquant!" He kissed the ends of his fingers and made the ‘mwah!’ sound, in the universal gesture for ‘wonderful taste’.

Bah, you’re both crazy. It’s blue all the way. Their flavour is so delicate, so fragrant. Any true connoisseur would agree. Cuthbert licked where his lips should have been. Mm mm, makes me hungry just thinking about it.

Well, it’s brown for me, said Dreth, un-swayed. Mind you, there was once this albino wizard with pink eyes...

Really? What were they like then? Cuthbert asked.

Tasted a bit like chicken.

Someone’s coming, said Sprat, breaking into the culinary discussion.

I can’t remember what chicken tastes like, muttered Percy as the group ducked down behind the hedge they were using for cover. A dark figure on a horse thundered by, cloak flying out behind him.

Dreth looked after the horseman, frowning. Where’s Emerald? She should be back by now. He looked at the sky, which was showing signs of impending dawn. It’ll be light soon. I should never have let her go alone. Standing up, he contemplated the village. If I go now, I’ll still have the cover of the dark.

No way! It’s too dangerous! You’ll be spotted, said Cuthbert.

Mmm. Very well then, we’ll just have to use cunning…

~ * ~

Mikal closed the door to his small shack. He staggered against the wall, just managing to steady himself before he fell over. Chuckling, he stumbled backwards as he tried to remove his shoes.

That Jordan and his white spirit! What a batch the latest lot was too.

His head swimming, he managed to remove one shoe before something percolated through his alcohol sodden brain.

Who left the light on?

Frowning, he stood straighter and made a serious effort to see straight. Gazing around his small home, he attempting to locate anything out of place.

The stove was there, squatting to the side. Its black iron door slightly ajar allowing the dull red embers to heat the room. The table stood as it always did, against the wall, its surface scarred with knife marks and obscene carvings. The simple wooden bench, similarly treated, was drawn up against it to make room for his bunk, upon which the stranger was resting.

Ah.

The thin figure that had been sitting on his narrow bed stood up, his head nearly reached the ceiling.

About time you returned. Do you realize what time it isss?

Mikal’s mouth opened and closed like a goldfish as he backed away, hands held in front of him.

P… p… please… he slurred. Am just a simple farmer. Am not important nor nothing.

I know, the intruder replied, stepping closer. That’s why I chose you. No one will misssss you, at least until it’s too late.

Miss me? He was backed against the door now.

The stranger leant down, bringing his face close to the farmer’s. Icy breath washed over Mikal. Yessss. Of course, if you had more than one set of robes, I could have just taken them. However you don’t, and I’m in a hurry.

I…I could just take them off, Mikal replied. A whole night of strong liquor fleeing before his terror.

The thin man shook his head slowly. Sorry, too late. Now, how would you like it?

Like it?

Your death.

In fifty years?

Ahh. Rare humour. How about…thisss?

Mikal’s mouth opened in silent scream as a cold intrusion entered his midriff. Pain lanced through his body, and he would have collapsed if the being hadn’t held him up by wrapping bony fingers tightly about his throat.

There was a wet sound, like a cow giving birth, and the stranger held up a hand, something brown and dripping clenched in it.

W…what’s that? Gasped the farmer.

Your liver I think. Maybe a kidney.

Oh.

Thanks for the robes.

Mikal died before he could respond.

~ * ~

Adel Harbinger waited outside her office and watched the approaching figure gallop towards her. Out of all the jobs that the Head woman had, this was surely the worst. Slim hands twisted her fine silken skirt nervously, until she realized what she was doing and stopped. It wouldn’t do to show her feelings in front of this person. Taking a deep breath, she straightened her once dark hair, which was now tinged with grey. Old age catches up even to half-elves, she reflected.

Her attention returned to the visitor, who was galloping down the centre of the street with scant regard for any others who may be there. The few villagers out in the early morning air ran for cover as the rider approached, some literally diving out of the way.

The black horse slowed as it closed, pulling up next to her in a cloud of dust, making her cough. The red eyes of the beast seemed to glare at her, and it snorted contemptuously as she lifted her head in defiance.

The man on the back on the animal slid off the saddle with practised ease and, leaving the horse un-tethered, approached Adel, his muscular body looming over her diminutive frame.

Head Woman, he said in a deep voice, removing his black, skull adorned, helmet. We meet again.

Unfortunately, replied Adel.

The man laughed, a loud, evil sound. Ahh, I do so admire you. Perhaps we should get together in a more… intimate environment sometime? The Anti-Paladin looked down at her, and she trembled.

Rarely intimidated, Adel found this ‘so called’ Violator to be both terrifying and compelling at the same time. I think not, she replied, managing to keep her voice steady.

With a knowing smile, the Violator nodded, as if her thoughts were transparent to him. Shall we enter your office, or would you like to talk in the street? he inquired.

Flushing, Adel motioned him inside.

Moving silently as always, he followed. You have redecorated I see, he said, looking around her small workspace.

Adel followed his gaze. Her office was the usual neat and tidy place it had always been. The floor underfoot made from the finest wood, the walls carefully scrubbed clean and adorned with various paintings, mainly of forest scenes. Several chairs were drawn up against a small table near the window, the remains of her meal getting cold on it. Nearer the doorway was her desk, piled high with papers. Her comfortable chair faced another two, less elaborate ones, on the other side.

You didn’t come for small talk, she said, trying to gain the upper hand.

No, no. This is true. Veronica took his gloves off as he walked over to her desk. He put them down on the surface and leaned against it with practised nonchalance before turning back to her. I have been sent here to find some…one.

You master has commanded you, is that it? Sent you scurrying like a dog after a bone? Adel went on the offensive, testing her courage.

The man looked at her for a second, then burst out into his booming laughter. Ah! Adel, this is why I enjoy my visits here so much. So much spirit in such a small frame. He suddenly stood upright and moved close to her with frightening speed. Leaning down, he said in a much lower tone: "Perhaps I should test exactly how strong? I think I would enjoy such a task. He tilted his head slightly to one side. Maybe even you would, for a time at least. What do you think?"

Adel spent a second trying to recover. She’d nearly collapsed when he had moved so quickly. After a few seconds she managed to compose herself again. "I think we are here for business, not ‘pleasure’, she replied, pleased to note the icy tone in her voice. Though I doubt ‘pleasure’ would be an accurate description of such an endeavour"

Veronica narrowed his eyes for a moment, as if trying to see inside her skull, before taking a deep breath and stepping back a pace. "You are right of course Head woman. Shall we discuss business then? I have much to do. You know the saying: ‘No rest for the wicked,’ and I am very, very wicked indeed. Tasks of ungodly evil await my hand. Even as we speak Good is fighting to claim dominance in the world, and I shall not tolerate such abhorrence…"

We have information, interrupted Adel, knowing once the man got started there was no stopping him, "that certain… creatures have left the dungeon. As you know, in agreement with your master, she sneered slightly, emphasizing the word, if such happens, someone will be sent to track them down and dispose of them."

Ah, your little village is threatened and you scream for help? How sweet, said the Anti-Paladin in scornful tones of his own.

Adel flushed. You know the deal, she said. We keep word of the dungeon current, play up the treasure and challenges to get heroes here…

…and in return you get a share of the profits, as well as the chance to sell them equipment and lodging at inflated prices, Veronica replied. I know the agreement.

Well you also know that the beasts in your foul pit should remain inside then, she countered. Several are loose, and wandering about threatening my people. What are you going to do about it?

Veronica looked at her with brown eyes that made her go weak at the knees. The anti-paladin was really very handsome, but his terrifying you-never-know-when-I’ll-snap-and-gut-you-like-a-pig aspect nullified most of that. "I’ll see what I can do for my ally," he said. His tone carefully modulated to contain only the slightest hint of contempt.

Thank-you, she replied, trying hard to keep her breathing regular.

Very well! Enough of this idle banter, he said, drawing himself up and placing a hand on his sword, to stand in a dramatic pose. "For Evil waits for no creature, and dark deeds are ready to be done. I, The Violator, am the man for such. Tremble in my presence, blanch at my passing, and woe betide any who stand in my path, for I shall cut them down like a blade of grass before a dragon, leaving only their twisted and scattered remains as a reminder to those who would seek to emulate their actions. He bowed mockingly. Now I have a job to do, so I must depart. Smiling wide he added: Don’t forget to look behind you in the night, for I shall be watching."

With that he turned and strode from the room, cloak swirling behind him in theatrically.

The head woman let out a sign of relief as the black garbed figure left. The man scared the living crap out of