The King's Mirror

By Marcus Richards II

The King's Mirror is an epic fantasy fiction book about ordinary people being thrusted into extraordinary circumstances. This masterpiece blends a grand adventure, deep reflections, action, and dire peril. With a dose of political intrigue, a generous dollop of romance, and a pinch of humor.
The aftermath of the Dragonkin War and the death of King Freanald leaves brothers Konrad & Ernold fighting over the throne. Despite not being the senior sibling, Konrad uses his power and authority to banish his brother Ernold from the kingdom despite attempts from Luna who tried to stop it from happening.
Fifteen years later, Ernold who was banished for his crimes against his brother returns to Edilide with an army of beasts who are absolutely fearless. Sowing chaos and destruction in his wake, he kidnaps his brother's daughter, Princess Luna, from the capital making his way to Wellshade, the land of eternal darkness.
With the lands of Edilide now in a state of tension & unrest, a young man, Sorrin, will embark on a journey from the Monastery he calls home. He and his companions seek to stop the threat of again looming war. However, things are not as they seem with dark truths coming to light.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Marcus Richards II
• Release date: Nov 17, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463503775

Marcus Richards II

Hello. I'm a new writer who hopes to be able to publish my works out to the public so as many people as possible can read it.

Book preview

Chapter 1:

Monastery Woes

The time of dawn sets in motion the beginnings of battle. Humans, elves, half-elves, dwarves, mages, rogues, gryphons, minotaurs, orcs, trolls, halflings, and Dragonkin clash with sword and magic. The field of wheat sways slowly in the wind. A dark surge wave washes over the field causing the majority to be infected with rage throwing caution out the window to engage in bloodlust but the dragonkin found themselves immune from the dark surge. They could see everyone engage against each other but mostly out for them to end their race.

Two black mages dressed in blue and two enraged wild dragons blasted fireballs at each other. Soldiers scream with burns on their bodies from miscast fire spells. Two dwarves swung down on three minotaurs on their heads with their battle hammers. They nodded at each other before one of them gets stabbed in the back by a precision dagger. The other gasps in shock over his fallen comrade and ran to cover ground from the attackers.

A trio of archers, atop their horses, fire ice arrows at dragons and hippogriffs flying about striking them directly in their chests. The ice magic slowly starts freezing them on the inside. The cold quickly spreads leaving both creatures screeching in pain. Their bodies fall due to the increase weight towards the ground unable to move upon impact. An army of orcs and trolls clash with spiked clubs and axe blades finally wanting to settle the score between their two races. A troll knocks four orcs out of his path leading his group to charge forward. A troll gave a sadistic grin towards his next victim swinging down his ax at the orc’s chest.

A white mage heals her wounded party in battle trying her best to lead them out of danger but looks up to witness a powerful, enraged, dark crystallized dragon flying over the fiery field. She could sense more of the dark surge waves coming from the beast causing more havoc. The beast casts a huge shadow below causing everyone to stop fighting to look up at the strange creature flying above them.

Dark fireballs fly fast in a downward spiral towards the battle. The area explodes in flames as the impact of the explosion kills hundreds of dragonkin and other races fleeing for their lives. The battlefield becomes even more chaotic in the process. Hordes of Dragonkin flee towards the forest in an attempt to flee the chaos and the other fighters. Several are slain by the beast while fighting giving the others time to escape.

* * *

About ten miles away from the battlefield, three people use the opportunity to slip away from the fighting. A man holds an unconscious young child in his hands. The trio could still hear the screams of the dying in their minds.

Come on, we’re almost to the Monastery, Twila said.

Twila was a powerful mage. Her long brown hair was tied in a red ribbon and her eyes sparkled like diamonds.

No need to remind us, Brighton spat. We’re hurrying as fast as we can here.

On the other hand of things lies Brighton. His short, wavy hair and green eyes make him stand out from most guys. He grips his daggers close to his side being proud of his usage.

Look out, Ernold said.

Ernold’s a powerful dark mage much like his grandparents before him being born with the dark magic gene. The most distinct feature is the black mustache on his face which took him three years to grow out in the shape he wanted.

They hear rustling in the bushes ahead as Ernold stops them sensing what’s in their way. They could hear low snarls as three dark wraith beasts emerge to attack. Twila and Ernold ready their staffs.

Looks like they’re in our way, Twilia said.

Perfect for target practice for my dark magic, Ernold said. Ready to show off those icy powers of yours?

You know it.

The wraith beasts charge for the duo but Ernold and Twila easily blast them aside with their dark and ice magic. Ernold gives Twila a smile being adored by her skill in magic which almost rivaled his. Brighton simply rolled his eyes.

Can we get going now? We need to get our son to the Monastery as quickly as possible. Lunos knows the Dragonkin are going to need help to survive this war, Brighton said.

I even got a plan for that but let’s go, Ernold said.

The trio continued running through the tall evergreen with Ernold leading them both knowing the best path to reach the monastery. Lightning pierces the sky above them. Three gryphons are shot down by flaming arrows. Brighton propped up their son making sure he’s still safe in his arms. Several turns they made but are stopped when several hordes of wraiths appeared with one emerging bigger than the others.

Ugh. More of them. We don’t have time for this, Brighton said gruffly.

That one seems to be their pack leader, Twila said.

What now, Ernold asked?

I’ll continue taking the child to the monastery. I can handle whatever’s in my path. I’m sure I'll recognize the place since I’ve been there once before.

You sure about that? I don’t want to lose another friend. Not like before, Ernold said.

No need to worry. I’m stronger than what you two give me credit for. I have my trusted daggers at my side so I’m not completely defenseless, Brighton said proudly.

And that worries me, Twila whispers.

Alright, just go. We’ll clear a path so you can get going.

The wraith beast leader howls giving the signal to attack. Ernold and Twila blast magic while Brighton slips away with the child in tow. He ran faster getting closer to the monastery but part of him wanted to go back and help his friends. Several trees were knocked over behind him. The storm loosens into a heavy downpour as Brighton did his best not to slip and fall.

He hopped across the rocks above the river but eventually arriving at a set of tall double wooden gates with cast iron bars on each side. Two wall lampposts flicker in the storm as Brighton gets under some cover to get out of the rain. He digs into his bag and takes out an envelope with a letter addressed to Sorrin folded inside. His and Twila’s names are written in gold ink cursive.

He knocks on the gates three times and waited a few minutes as two monks, a black bear and gray rhino answer wearing their brown monk robes. Brighton turns his attention towards the bear while the rhino looked out slightly annoyed.

At least, you look more welcoming Cyrus.

You’ll have to forgive Zane here. He’s just upset that his meditation session with Dan was interrupted, Cyrus said.

I was probably expecting Ernold to be here and not you though if it was him, he probably would’ve used magic to disguise himself so we wouldn’t recognize him, Zane said.

I would’ve known it was him since dark magic tends to leave a particular smell when used in such a manner, Cyrus said.

Definitely sounded like something he would do, Brighton said.

But pray tell, why are you here and where’s Ernold and Twila, Zane asked?

No time to explain. I need to drop our son here so he can be safe and far away from all the fighting. I have to go back and help them out.

Zane sighs being almost reluctant to take in another child but Cyrus simply nodded at Brighton. He hands Sorrin to him while giving Zane the sealed letter.

What’s this, Zane asked?

Just a letter. When Sorrin’s come of age, be sure to give it to him and keep him safe above all else. We may be back for him soon when things have calmed down. If not, be sure to take good care of him, Brighton said.

Wouldn’t Sorrin be better off at the capital instead of here, Cyrus asked?

Ernold turned down the idea and it was Twila’s decision to put our boy here instead.

I see, Zane said.

We’ll take good care of Sorrin. Don’t you worry about a thing, Cyrus said.

Thank you. May Solum and Lunos protect us all.

Cyrus and Zane head back inside shutting the gates behind them. Brighton hesitated to stay in the Monastery but shook his head at the idea. Part of him knew that Sorrin would be safer there than the capital.

"Be safe Sorrin. We’ll be back for you as soon as we can."

Brighton grips his daggers tight and ran back towards the area where he left Ernold and Twila. He could still hear snarls and blasts of magic about. The downpour lightened up into a drizzle as he threw his daggers at the last two beasts.

Thank Solum I managed to come back in time.

Again, no need to worry. We’re still standing, Ernold said.

Is it done, Twila asked?

Don’t worry. Sorrin’s in good hands at the Monastery. I just hope we can go back for him once this is over, Brighton said.

Alright, we need to head back to the field. That beast is probably still there. I hope there’s survivors to help, Ernold said.

The trio quickly made their way back through the tall evergreen hoping they’ll make it back in time. They could hear the roaring of the dark crystallized dragon beast in the distance. They almost cover their ears to drown out the deafening noise. They emerge out in the opening to a horrific sight.

We’re too late.

The carnage. So much blood. So much death, Ernold said.

The field’s engulfed in flames in several areas. Dead bodies litter the ground. Arrows and swords in the ground. They looked around for any signs of life. Ernold senses a great number of Dragonkin slain. They checked body after body to find any survivors but alas no life could be found.

They looked at each other wondering where the beast went off to. The sounds of its roar reached their hearing as the enraged beast flies around their heads before landing a few feet in front of them. Three of his horns are broken off. The beast snarled at them loudly while baring white sharp fangs. White ooze dripped from his snout. Ernold notes the sun mark surrounding the beast’s eyes.

Looks like it’s pissed off to be looking at us like this, Brighton said.

No shit, Ernold said.

Save it for later. We got to take this beast down.

They nodded at each other and readied their weapons for defense. The beast takes a deep whiff and licks his lips drinking in the blood he tasted by the victims he killed on the field. Brighton studies the beast’s body trying to find a weak point to strike directly. The beast’s eyes became bloodshot red.

I don’t like the way he’s looking at us like that, Brighton said.

He doesn’t have any other look otherwise. Just be on your guard with this one, Ernold said.

Yeah. No need to tell us twice, Twila said.

Chapter 2:

Transgressions of the Past

Cherry tomatoes. Get your fresh cherry tomatoes here. Guaranteed for the low, low price of three gold bits each!

An anthro crystal dragon merchant yells out his specials trying to compete with other merchants for profit. The marketplace swarms with various races all trying to go about their usual daily routines. Three dwarf merchants argue with each other that their products are superior to everyone else's.

A rhino guard's caught in the middle of a crossfire between two half-elf merchants who are trying to sell ancient charms. Each one claims their charms can ward off curse cast by dark magic users. He shifts his eyes uncomfortably at the situation before leaving for a bear merchant to buy bread. The two merchants were dumb-founded but continued their arguments. The local kids are out and about playing in the fountain while gold coins are tossed in for good luck for the year while two lion guards chatted among themselves.

So much beauty to behold here.

Yeah. The royal family that rules here really know their stuff when it came to making our kingdom stand out.

The capital of the Crystal Kingdom is known to everyone all over as Edilide since the country is rather famous for its buildings being made and encased in sturdy crystal. The royal family of Edilide resides in the royal blue castle located in the center of town which is shaped like a crystal tree fortress. The castle shines all over the city.

Ernold walks through the town trying his best to not draw attention to himself. He holds a single white rose in his hands which are both bandaged from attaining 2nd degree burns from the war. The majority of the parents pull their children away from Ernold's pathway in fear. He could feel all the nasty looks and glares from citizens and food merchants on his back. Part of him wanted to go right up to them and curse at them nonstop. On the other hand, he knew doing that would be something they would expect him to do.

He entered the local tea shop where Jasmine would always treat him to a cup of her specialty brewed blackberry tea, peanut butter cookies, and gives him a little pep talk to help lift his spirits up. She always knew how to make Ernold's usual specialty and gives him a rose when he requests one. Sometimes, she would often receive criticism of her act of kindness but she knew to stand her ground on those individuals.

He hurries to get back to his place of residence which is located on the far east of the city away from most people. Ernold personally didn't like living in the castle style fortress feeling that its style clashes with his personality. Despite his brother's protests to live in the castle, he was adamant about the decision and Adrienne agreed with him. He always felt a bit uncomfortable walking through the town square knowing that every time he goes out to run a few errands, those same merchants would always give him dirty looks. Ernold remembered the small act of kindness that one of the flower merchant half-elf girls gave him when half the town citizens wouldn't do so much as give him a friendly hello. The only reason they tolerate his existence is that he's related to Freanald, the King of Edilide. To be more specific, his younger brother Konrad who was often seen as the goody-two-shoes of them both.

It's good to finally be home.

Ernold's home was decorated with the basics not having much of a personality. The color palette throughout the home was a gray monotone with little pops of color here and there. He walked through the den and stops by a beautiful hand-painted portrait detailing his late wife Adrienne in the prime of her young life posing with two gryphons with beautiful auburn hair and hazel eyes.

He sighs putting his hand slowly on the portrait. His mind wonders to all the sweet words they used to say to each other. Ernold snaps his fingers lighting the five silver candles in blue flames to honor her memory. He turns his attention towards the other portrait hanging next to Adrienne above the fireplace. The portrait has his two best friends Brighton and Twila in the prime of their lives.

Ernold places the white rose in a vase filled with seven other roses in honor of the trio's memories as good friends He enchanted them with a light crystal so they will never wilt.

"Has it been five months since the war ended? I wasn’t powerful enough to save them."

Ernold flashes back on that night they fought together against the beast to stop his rampage and end the massacre war. The horrific images of Brighton and Twila being struck down in their backs by the dragon's talons plagued his mind. He struck back to defend his friends but the beast brushed the attack off like it was nothing and side sweep him with his tail into a tree. The staff went flying from his hand.

They struggled to get back in the game but the beast put an end to that before it could even begin. The beast wraps its long tail around their bruised bodies almost choking them before slamming them down hard. Ernold's forced helpless to watch them get slaughtered right before his eyes. Their screams snap him out of his thoughts.

King Freanald has become ill as of late and it won't be long before he passes on to the next world. I should be able to rule Edilide as the next heir and not my brother Konrad. He has no idea how to handle responsibility like this.

Ernold spots a book with a yellow bookmark lying on the end table next to his big easy chair. He picks it up and sits down. He opens it to continue reading where he last left off:

"I awaited by the station waiting for my partner to meet me. I still hold the last letter he sent to me with his usual favorite quote written on it: Courage is the magic that turns dreams into reality. I often wonder what he meant by that and why he would even bother to write that every time we communicate to each other by letter. It’s admirable to think that he thinks I’m the one that needs a shot of courage in my life when in fact it’s quite often that he’s usually the one that needs it the most."

Ernold sighs trying to relax back in the chair. He places the book back down on the end table. He looks out the window remembering happier times in the past. Memories of being by Adrienne's side and embracing her warmth into his flashes through his mind. The longing for simpler times when they all got along so well and not the way he would describe their relationship status now. He reflected back.

* * *

This day has been simply perfect, Adrienne said smiling.

Anything for my precious darling. This is our dream anniversary after all and I aim to please, Ernold said.

I want this moment between us to last as long as time itself, Adrienne said calmly.

So, do I darling. So do I.

Adrienne and Ernold look lovingly into each other's eyes. They dance the waltz away in the beautifully decorated gazebo. The sky is clear as a crystal night after a rainstorm. One of Ernold's personal guards opens the gazebo rooftop letting the light from the full moon through. The moonlight reflects on all the buds allowing them to bloom into beautiful blue moonflowers with a golden center.

Members of Ernold's personal guards play their violins to help celebrate their dream anniversary. Adrienne's all dressed in black and Ernold's all dressed in white. She chuckles a bit at Ernold's color choice but he was persistent on the choice. He plucks a flower from a wrapped vine and placed it in her hair.

Thank you, Adrienne said hugging him.

No problem but I have to ask though. Why you choose me in the end? Konrad was the one that wanted you but you chose me instead, Ernold said.

He was okay but a bit too clingy for my tastes, Adrienne said.

My brother, clingy? Seriously? Ernold asked surprised.

Trust me, I could tell you story after story. It was so weird and awkward, Adrienne said.

Oh.

Besides, there was something inside you that I fell in love with and I couldn't find it in no other, Adrienne said.

Her answer made Ernold blush and felt a wave of happiness as if they were connected as one. He's glad to share his life, his love, and his passion with someone as lovingly and beautiful as her. Adrienne leans in to kiss Ernold being caught up in the moment. He prepared himself mentally for an even greater night to come afterward. It was as if time itself was standing still for this moment to come.

One of Konrad's personal servants comes running towards them with a sad expression on his face. The music abruptly stops leaving the moment ruined. Ernold's annoyed that one of Konrad's servants would dare interrupt their special time after giving them special instructions that they weren't to be disturbed. Adrienne rolls her eyes making hand gestures to everyone else to leave.

I'm sorry to interrupt your special time but I have something urgent.

What is it now? Adrienne asked.

Didn't we give specific instructions to not be disturbed by anyone? This had better be damn important to ruin our moment, Ernold said impatiently.

The servant doesn't say anything to them but keeps the same sad expression on his face. His eyes shift uncomfortably all over the area. He hands them a piece of paper motioning for them to follow him towards Medic's office. Ernold and Adrienne look over the information written on it but couldn't believe it. They run inside the castle fortress as the servant led the way.

Ernold and Adrienne look at each other worried not knowing how they must feel about the situation. She sighs and Ernold holds her hand in silence. They stop at Medic's office. The servant opens the door and leaves them to run other errands. They see Lamia looking depressed out a window and Konrad sitting down in a chair crying softly and holding tightly to his childhood teddy bear for comfort.

We got your message, Lamia. It's not true is it?

Afraid so. He's really taking the news quite hard, Lamia said.

I'm so sorry. Is there anything we can do? Adrienne asked.

Lamia nods her head to her. Adrienne looks at Konrad who has broken down completely.

Go over and talk to him. He needs you.

Ernold nodded and walks over to his brother whose eyes are red from his crying. Konrad looks up at his brother and wipes his nose as more tears fall from his face.

We heard what happened. Are you going to be alright? Ernold asked.

It isn't fair. Just...not...fair, Konrad mumbled.

Konrad, it'll be okay. Sometimes these things happen, Ernold said.

Don't even say that to me! You have no idea what it's like to not be able to have a child of your own!

Ernold, Adrienne, and Lamia are taken back a bit by Konrad's sudden outburst. Ernold steps back a bit not knowing what to say. Konrad lowers his head in shame for his outburst. He sighs and placed his hand on Konrad's shoulder in an attempt to calm him down.

Brother, you have to calm down. I'm sorry for what I said. Those were a poor choice of words. I was just only trying to comfort you. I had good intentions on what I said earlier, Ernold said.

Don't worry about it, Konrad said looking up. I know you were only trying to make me feel better but knowing the truth just makes this even more difficult to swallow.

Let's take a little moonlight walk to clear your mind. It might help to make you feel better.

He extends his hand out as the two brothers head outside for a long walk down the winding road around town. The moon rises high in the sky. Market merchants close their stalls and shops for the day. Kids splash around in the fountain square with rubber marbles. Konrad and Ernold look up admiring the night sky and all the beauty that comes with it.

Shooting stars fly over the distance as three members of the royal guard close their eyes to make a wish. Ernold stops by a fruit stand stall still open and purchase two green apples.

I'm sorry for ruining your special night with Adrienne. I didn't mean to do that, Konrad said.

Don't worry about it but I don't think Adrienne will forget this for quite a while, Ernold said.

That's true in more ways than one.

But between you and me, what do you think the reason for all this is? Ernold asked concerned.

As you know, Lamia and I have been trying to have a child of our own for five years now. We had our appointment with Medic to make out fertility stronger but it turns out that both of us are incompatible in bed and too sterile to even conceive a child together, Konrad said.

Oh...I see. I had no idea you guys were trying so hard for five years. I always thought it would've been at least two before you two went to go see him, Ernold said.

Even if we did, there still would've been nothing he would've done to help according to him. We were only delaying the inevitable, Konrad said.

Hold on. Does father know about this? Ernold asked worriedly.

Not yet he doesn't but I know he isn't going to be happy when I tell him the unfortunate news.

Konrad sighs and almost begins to cry again. Ernold looks on at the sight of his pitiful brother. He knew that it wouldn't be so easy to handle everything that just happened. He embraces him in a hug out of sorrow and comfort. Ernold pats his back to get him to calm down again. Konrad becomes stiff at the surprise but softens up and embraced the hug in return. He takes the apple from Ernold and both began eating them.

It'll be okay, brother. You and Lamia will work through this somehow, Ernold said.

No, it won't. How can this possibly be okay?

Konrad takes another bite of his apple before tossing it away. The bitten apple hits one of the guards squarely in the head. He looks around glaring at Konrad for what he did. Before he could do anything, however, the two brothers made a run for it rushing back to Medic's office. They start laughing for the accidental aim.

You have excellent aim, Ernold said giggling.

It wasn't like I planned to do that, Konrad said.

So, you say, brother. So, you say, Ernold said.

Whatever.

Anyway, you know that Adrienne and I will be here for you two through this. If there's anything we can do for ya, let us know, Ernold said.

There is one thing you two could do but I don't know if I should ask you of it, Konrad said.

Chapter 3:

King Freanald

I'm sorry to interrupt sir but King Freanald has requested the presence of you and your brother Konrad to the throne room.

Ernold wakes from his power nap yawning. He looks out the window noting that it's now dusk. He knocks the open book off from the end table which lands on the floor. Ernold yawns and picks up the book off the floor placing it back on the table. He scratches his back and opened the door to see his father’s half-elf servant standing there.

No, no it's okay but what's the emergency? Ernold asked.

He yawns for a second time with a sleepy look on his face. Part of him wished that the servant didn't have to disturb his peaceful nap. He felt at peace dreaming of other pleasant memories wanting the time to last a while longer. The servant gives him a confused look and urged him to follow him to the throne room.

They run outside and through the streets trying to make their way back to the castle. They go up a few stairs and through several hallways and rooms before reaching the doors to the throne room.

Father!

Ernold runs through the doors to see his younger brother comfort their father. King Freanald has black spots all over his body and is having coughing fits. His black hair is tangled in a mess despite his royal appearance.

Finally made it brother.

Konrad had the traditional features associated with those born with the ability to use life magic: Crystal blue eyes and a streak of white in their hair. Konrad's also a mage like his brother but has the ability to transform into a crystal dragon for battle and heal minor injuries.

All the red curtains are drawn open allowing the moonlight to shine through all the windows. A long red plush carpet spreads out straight from the door to the throne seats. Candles are lit on the brick walls in between all the painting portraits of all the previous rulers before them.

Oh, good you finally made it, Freanald said.

What’s going on, Ernold asked?

A portrait painting of Freanald's parents hangs behind them as well. Freanald gives a hand gesture for all the servants and handmaids to leave the room for the time being.

We just received another medical report from Medic and it's not good I'm afraid. Our father doesn't have much time, Konrad said.

You're kidding, right? I thought there would be more time left. Surely you and Medic could...

Stop right there, brother. You already know damn well that I can't heal nothing like this and even Medic can't help with his condition, Konrad said.

Don't make claims like that. Medic must be lying about our father's condition. He's stronger than anyone I know and he can't simply die on us now, Ernold said.

Konrad sighs quietly to himself. He shakes his head disappointed knowing that his brother's in a serious state of denial about their father's condition. Freanald starts another coughing fit and Konrad's quick to pat his back to temporarily stop it.

Thank you, Konrad, Freanald said turning to Ernold. Don't say that my son. I'm not stronger than anyone else. I'm just me.

I'm sorry brother but I'm afraid there's nothing we can do for him and we need to make the best of the time he has left, Konrad said.

King Freanald tried sitting up straight in his chair using his hands weakly to hold his head up. He felt frail at the knees barely being able to stand either. His eyes are bloodshot red. He could feel intense pain down his backside and feels his feet going numb. Ernold approaches closely worried about what's to come in the near future.

I need to tell you two about the reason why I summoned you two here today. It's about the decision on whether you or Konrad will take my place when I move on to the next world.

He starts another coughing fit and droplets of blood comes out from his mouth and nose. Konrad grabs some tissue to wipe the blood off his face and hands. Ernold summons a glass of water for him to drink. Freanald manages to drink a few sips before losing the grip on the glass. The water spills on the floor and the glass shatters into pieces.

Thank you. That feels a little better and sorry about the mess.

Don't worry about that. You need to save your strength, Ernold said.

No, I need to say this here and now. I have thought long and hard about which of you has the potential to lead our fair Edilide and I have reached my decision, Freanald said weakly.

Which one of us? Konrad and Ernold ask with bated breath.

Freanald's illness enters its final critical stage. He holds his hands over his chest. He could feel his heart failing and yellow liquid oozing from his mouth. His breathing became even more erratic. Freanald finds it more difficult for his heart to continue beating regularly. He heaves a final breath and closed his eyes smiling leaving brothers Konrad and Ernold devastated.

No, it can't be. FATHER!

"The same illness that took my beloved Adrienne away from me ends up taking our father as well," Ernold thought.

He turns his head slightly downward to hide his feelings of utter hopelessness. He still couldn't believe what just happened. He felt helpless and powerless not being able to provide any way of helping their father out. Konrad cries softly still trying to shake Freanald's lifeless corpse.

* * *

Dark storm clouds block out the sun. All the citizens of Edilide gather out at a grassy field in between hills of mountains. A few drops of rainfall from the sky. All the members of the royal guard take their positions around the graveyard site wearing the Edilide