The Fall Into Evil

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The Fall into Evil

Dark Age ChroniclesA fanfiction of Midways Mace: The Dark Age

By

Giuseppe Ng

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I

Large dark clouds billowed up into the sky, choking the pale moonlight and taking away its

gaze. Long licks of flame reached high and wide, consuming everything it touched. Wails ofpain echoed that night as red and black feathered arrows filled the skies. People were dying

and their agony rung deep in one man's mind.

Mordos Kull stared at the mirror with great fear in his heart. His heavy eyes and frazzled

beard were clear signs of the wars he'd been through in his life. In this moment of chaos,

horrifying images flashed in his mind. They were dead faces of countless people, both friends

and foes whose names had long been forgotten. No matter how many he'd seen however,

nothing would prepare for the evil that emerged from the walls of flame outside his room.

Countless skeletal knights stepped through the fire, armed with swords and shields.Everyone of them wore different colours, as if each bore different allegiances, but they were

all bound together for a single purpose, a distinctly painted red hydra on their shields

Mordos Kull knew his time had come. There was no other recourse for him. It was time to

take up the morning star before him and do battle. This time however, it was a fight for his

own existence.

"You think you can take me?", Mordos screams as he burst through the door, his fury

seemingly intensifying the flames around. In a flash, he flails the morning star to the skulls of

several skeletal warriors, felling them in an instant. "You underestimate me!", he declareswhile going into reckless abandon.

Many foes had been slain by his hands, but Mordos Kull would realized that there was no end

to the foes that assailed him. Slowly but surely, the physical stress started to take its toll. It

was only a matter of time when he'd be overrun. In that moment of desperation, he heard a

voice amidst the fury.

"Mordos... Mordos..."

A lady was calling out to him, her voice growing louder each time. Her sultry voice seemed tofeed into his frenzy. As Mordos continued in blind rage to smite every foe that stood in his

path, four shadows walked into view from the hellish fires.

Two of them were intimidating in size while the one on the far end seemed to resemble the

skeletal monsters that surrounded him. A woman stood in front of the three, and it was her

voice that kept ringing in his mind. She approached him without fear, pulling out a dagger that

gleamed in the midst of the fire.

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Mordos paused to take a look at the looming threat before him, but he couldnt see past the

veil of shadow that covered her. In a flash, she stabbed his heart, the pain shooting straight

into his flesh as he bubbled out one final anguish.

Ah!

Mordos Kull roused half-naked from his slumber in the middle of the night. His breathing was

fast, and his face was drenched in sweat. It was another nightmare, one that had been

tormenting him for a very long time.

The chaos that engulfed his subconscious was nowhere in his sight. In its stead was the

lonely cackling of the campfire before him. Mordos Kull always stayed out every night in this

long arduous journey, in case bandits came to assail the family that hired him and the house

wagons they owned. This night, however, was unlike all those other nights. Mordos Kull was

not alone by the warm fire.

Mordos...

Teresa?

A lady sat up from Morris Kull's side, with a warm blanket wrapped around her bare body.

She ran her fingers on his bare chest as she called for his name once more, her concern

evident in her voice. He knew her as the lone daughter in the family. Teresa always had a

warm and cheerful smile for him from her delicate, pretty face. He knew however that she

had a different side, one that was sly and cunning. Fortunately, he wasnt in her bad sidethroughout this journey. More so, the two had grown close to each other.

Did I scare you?, he asked as she sat by the fire.

I heard you... crying out..., Teresa asked while pulling his arm for her to lean on.

Its nothing... just a dream., Mordos comforted her.

Is it like this every night? Ive seen you tussling in your sleep... You never talk about it. Is it

from your past?

Mordos heart sank from her words. I dont remember anything about my past. Crazy, but

true.

All this time, Mordos carried that burden alone. It was an enigma that continues to confound

him, but he felt strongly it would sort itself out. He just had to bear it, and with a little luck, it

would all fall into place. Seeing that Teresa was trying to get to know more about his

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problems didnt feel right to him. Not only because it wasnt her problem, but also because of

someone else.

Listen, Teresa. If your father sees you here with me...

Before Mordos could finish, Teresa touched his lip with her finger. Dont talk about father.We are already near the city and I want to be with you. Talk to me. Tell me your dream.

Their eyes met as she uttered those words. Reaching the city was the end of the contract for

his services to the family. No doubt, Vlad, the strict and uptight father would set his stall up in

the city, while Teresa would help him with her fortune telling business. He on the other hand,

would likely drop by the local tavern and hoping to pick up work.

Mordos Kull was fond of that family very much: Vlad, the tough man with a loving heart,

Terence the young and lively boy and most of all, Teresa, the lady that had a place in his

heart. She always said it would pan out alright. She kept telling him shed convince herfather to accept him. That never did happen though. Perhaps she realized how foolish the

thought was. After all, what chance did he have of staying with the family when Vlad was a

strict man? All they could do was enjoy each moment as it came. When the time for them to

part ways comes, he promised her he'd find a way to meet her. Only their love mattered.

Okay, I doubt youll be able to help though., Mordos Kull conceded, though his words drew a

sly response from the maiden by his side. You underestimate my powers of foresight,

Mordos. Ive seen the futures of many folks already.

Yes, I see my future, Teresa. If you take my reading, I will magically have a lighter purse.

You fool! Teresa slapped his shoulder lightly from that gibe, prompting Mordos to chuckle.

Soon, though he started to share his dreams, no matter how futile it was in understanding it

all.

Its always flames. Theres fire around me. It's like a village was being burned to the

ground.", he opened. "I was the last man standing and skeletons warriors carrying the red

hydra signs circled around me, wanting to skin me alive. Then, theres this lady that appears

and stabs me. Thats when I wake up. Its never exactly the same, but it always seems to

end that way.

As Mordos Kull recounted it, something Teresa said kept circling in his mind. Was his dreams

about his elusive past? What did it all mean?

Teresas brows furrowed, pondering about the enigma that he shared. The red hydra insignia

had long been in the lips of travellers shed met, but none of the stories ever made sense.

The stories were too fantastical, and were more exaggerated than the one Mordos shared. At

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the end of it, nobody was truly certain what the Red Hydra army was. She knew she had no

answers to give.

Her befuddlement was nothing new to Mordos however. It was how he lived his days for as

long as he could remember.

It seems I have overestimated your power of foresight!

, he grinned leading to another light

slap on his chest. Hmph! I think Ill leave. All you do is insult me., she pouted from his

constant ribbing.

Im not the one who snuck out to see some rugged good looks.

Teresa smiled before leaning closer to him. And I don't regret any of that, Mordos Kull. I will

forever cherish what we did tonight. I love you.

"I love you too.", he said as their lips found each other once more.

~o~

Dawn was breaking when Mordos rose from his sleep well rested. Teresa had already

scampered back to the wagon hours ago. She gave him a night where he could let his

feelings gush out to her without fear of repercussions. His only hope was that her father

never found out.

With luck it will..., he muttered to himself. After all, it was how he got by in

his life thus far.

Springing up, Mordos began the preparations for the journey. He made sure the horses werefed and everything had been packed up and ready to go for the final day of travel. Right after

his preparations, Vlad stepped out of one of the wagons and greeted the mercenary.

"Good morning, Mordos. I see you've taken care of everything."

"Of course."

From Vlad's face alone, Mordos Kull could tell right away that the man had been through

many adversities. A man didn't need to be in a battlefield to know what death was. Vlad had

witnessed years ago what it felt like to lose his wife. For years, he toiled for his own children's

future. Each day was in servitude to his promise for his wife.

We arrive at the city of Torboli in around six hours., Mordos quipped as Vlad pulled out

some loaves and rations for the morn.

Six. At least its not another day., Vlad cracked while taking a bite on this bread. War

ruined my business. You cant raise a family when people run amok and reach for each

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others throats over the smallest of things.

Much of the threat had been described as bearing the red hydra insignia and that their

strength grows by the day. Just what was true and what wasnt, nobody could tell. The only

certain thing was that the fear of that symbol alone brought along many stories of their

exploits. It instilled a chaotic kind of lifestyle on everyone, Vlad included. He was forced tomove his family to Torboli, in the hopes that the large city would provide a sense of stability, if

not just more time to gather his thoughts.

What do you hope to find there, Vlad?

Not a gold mine, thats for sure., Vlad grumbled. All I want is a little stable society to live in.

If that cant happen, all the other cities are much more accessible. Everything for my family.

Vlad lingered on that word, his expression alone showed how much he valued that concept.

Mordos could tell what was coming next from the lips of the old man.

Mordos, Im not blind to what my daughter thinks of you. She may not have said a single

word about you, but Ive seen her with you quite a few times. Id appreciate it if you pay her

the same respect I have for you.

Uh... sure., Mordos Kull muttered while quickly stuffing bread into his mouth. Throughout

the travel, Mordos had proven himself to be a reliable and dependable mercenary. That work

ethic had built a trust between the two men, but even though Vlads children treated him like

part of the family, Vlad himself always drew a line between the hired man and him.

Vlads eyes narrowed into slits at the man before him, as if trying to read his mind. Did you

two do something?

No, of course not., Mordos replied, while steadying his nerves.

His response was good enough for the war weary father. Vlad rose and went to the wagon to

wake the kids up. The six hour journey was still a significant one and they needed to depart

early.

Little Terence crawled out of the wagon, rubbing his eyes while scratching his frazzled hair.

He never appreciated the barks of his father in the morning. Ever since the war broke out,

everything was so uptight in his life. As he hobbled to get his bread, he heard once more the

marshall that loomed behind him.

Hurry up! We have to go!

Alright, already!, Terence grumbled as Vlad went on to check the wagons. Why is he

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always like that?, he asked Mordos who had just finished his share of the meal.

You have to understand, kid. Its the war. It does that to people. Turns nice people into

really grumpy old men., Mordos replied. Kids cant be kids with all the terrible things

happening. Theres no time for games cause everything is too real.

Everybody talks about it like its some cult.

Youll understand soon enough, hopefully., Mordos chuckled. Just do what youre told and

you two will get along just fine.

Just then, Teresa stepped out of the wagon, making Mordos pause for a moment. When their

eyes met, the two smiled before breaking off eye contact. Terence frowned in confusion at

his sister. Am I missing something here? Whats so funny?

Before anyone could utter a word however, Vlad came out and barked at the kids to finish up.Without another word, the children quickly consumed their meals and the caravan was all set.

Mordos didnt speak through much of the journey, though he did steal a few glances at Teresa

when he could. Vlad ran his family like the army, making Mordos wonder how much of that

was due to the dead wife.

Soon the high walls of Torboli came into view, the heavy military presence instantly telling

them that entry was not going to be straightforward. Let me handle that., Vlad replied.

What's your business here?, the guardsman approached the lead wagon.

I am Vlad Prado, merchant from the East. I bring with me rare equipment and supplies from

the far east! I have ventured many miles in the name of the King himself and seek refuge in

the great city of Torboli.

The guardsmen around only laughed at Vlad, belittling him and the mercenary sitting at his

side. Mordos could tell the cynicism in the voice of their interrogator as he responded. "The

King of Vitulia, you say? We asked for more men and the king generously provides four

horses, two wagons and two men, eh?"

"I'd say, the king doesn't even know Torboli is in the map!", remarked another contributing to

even more laughter.

Vlad did not take the ridicule of the guards lightly and if there was one thing he didnt like, it

was being ridiculed. Challenged to prove his words, he proudly revealed a letter bearing the

king's seal, much to everyones surprise. "Here is my proof and may you lose your tongues

for disrespecting his highness!"

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Mordos found the entire scene amusing, seeing the men choke on their words at the very

sight of the king's letter. One of the men ran to call for the captain while Mordos turned to the

proud merchant. "Where did you get that?"

"A crafty rogue friend I know of. I have a few more tricks in the bag, Mordos. You alwayscome prepared when dealing with these kind of people.", Vlad whispered with a big smile.

"All that tricks in your bag may soon come back to haunt you, Vlad.", Mordos Kull warned the

father. "You can't keep running a business with just deceiving people. What will happen

when they find out Teresa can't see the future? They will want her head!"

"Spare me the lectures. This is the only way we know how to survive.", Vlad snapped back.

"This is how it has to be."

It didn't take long for the large doors of Torboli to finally open for the caravan. The scene thatwelcomed them though was not what the two expected.

A thief burst out of one of those rundown houses while guards chased to beat him down. On

the other end, were more guards heckling poor citizens. There was absolutely no trace of the

city's splendour. In its stead was a deadly cycle of crime and violence, the very kind of chaos

that Vlad left behind for this journey. As Mordos lead the wagons in, he could tell the

disappointment in his employer's face.

"Not what you had hoped?", Mordos Kull asked the disappointed merchant.

"Far from it, but maybe I can sell some wares for a few months before leaving."

They both knew that the Prado family had expended much of their resources to get to this

journey. If they ever planned to move to a different city, they had to stay for a bit to recoup

the losses. Vlad was left with a bad hand.

"Let's hope your 'mythical herbs from the far east' is a big seller here.", Mordos quipped.

Well need more than just selling plain old wild grass., Vlad replied, realizing that no matter

how difficult things were, life was never going to give them a free pass.

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II

It was already noon time when Vlad and the family settled in on a part of the city he deemed

safer for their businesses. Mordos Kull was paid in full for his services, though part of himwished he didnt. As he left the Prado family, he could tell Teresa was staring back at him,

hoping he was going to stay for just a day longer. Lugging his shield and morning star, Kull

didnt look back. He couldnt bear the sight of leaving her behind.

With a heavy heart, he went straight to the tavern though to him it was more than just to treat

the aches of his heart. This was after all, the only place he knew to reliably find work. If he

was lucky, maybe he'd hear some interesting rumours to help Vlad and Teresa out. It would

be a good opportunity to see her again.

The musk of ale quickly was evident the moment Mordos stepped into the tavern. Instantly henoticed how packed the scene that greeted him was, but it didnt take long for him to realize

why. Cheerful music soothed the spirits of war worn folks. These days there was nothing

else but the constant fear of the bloody conflicts reaching the city borders. Everyone simply

drank their sorrows away, with the hope never to actually witness it.

Mordos Kull tossed a few coins to the bartender for a drink, all the while scanning the room

and eavesdropping the lively conversation that went on behind him.

I heard there were dragons flying! It was madness!, cried one drunk.

Aye. I was there when it happened!, cried another.

The tales were ones Mordos Kull had heard before, passed down from one drunk to another.

None of the stories were amusing to him. All it did was highlight their stupidity as far as he

was concerned. Maybe the city guards will hire me to bash their heads., he muttered while

taking a swig at the cold thick liquid in his mug. Just then, one man shared a story that

quickly made him pay attention.

Dont listen to those. I have the facts! Ive seen skeleton knights that bear the painted image

of the red hydra... Ive seen them burn down cities.

Mordos Kull turned to look at the storyteller of the day. The man looked physically frail, but

what he lacked there was offset by what seemed to be an aura of confidence and intelligence.

Unlike all the other loud random thugs, he could tell from the mans eyes that he had his

mental faculties intact. More importantly, he was telling a story that Mordos was familiar with.

Arrows blotted the sky and I could barely see a thing! And the skeletons couldnt be killed!

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Many foolhardy folks tried and they all paid with their lives. Im lucky to be standing here to

tell the tale!, the man exclaimed to his avid listeners. Seemingly excited by his new found

fame, he swiftly pulled out what looked like a large token of sort. On its face was a hastily

painted red hydra. The token gleamed in the mans fingers, as if it was magical. I saw one

of them drop this. I could feel the evil from it!

Hey! I heard theres a fortune teller that arrived! You think maybe she can tell us a thing or

two about these skeletons?, one of the listeners remarked still gripped in the fear from all

those drunken tales. This suggestion seemed to go over well with this mysterious peasant.

Mordos knew who they were referring to, and he knew the chances of her providing them with

any enlightenment was slim to none. Maybe he wasnt so smart after all.

Oy! Its the man who brought the merchant and the fortune teller!

Before Mordos Kull could realize what was happening, the discussion quickly turned towards

him. Several of the drunkards started huddling around him as the mysterious man proceededto identify him. Thats Mordos Kull... the famed mercenary!

Oy! Mordos Kull! Is it true you smashed a hundred heads in battle one time?

I wish they were you., Mordos Kull muttered to himself and chuckled to hide the tension. He

certainly didnt want to become the center of attention, especially when the people around him

were idiots. No, sorry. Im just a hired man. Thats all.

The door of the tavern swung open and what followed was sudden silence. Folks in the

tavern quickly stopped what they were doing as armed guards marched in. With the peoplearound him taking a step away, Mordos Kull quickly realized that he had become

unexpectedly popular here.

There were two files of city guards that blocked off the peasants of the tavern as the city

captain stepped in. Mordos Kull could tell from the captains demeanor alone that the man

was battle hardened. The captains eyes bore wisdom that no doubt served as a good

compliment to his skills. He stroked his beard while watching Mordos, likely evaluating the

mercenary himself.

Greetings, Mordos Kull. I am Captain Leopoldo Mezzo., the captain warmly welcomed the

mercenary. I have heard of your great deeds before.

Hopefully, it doesnt involve bashing a hundred skulls., Mordos cracked, making the captain

break a small smile. I have heard of that one too, though that is most definitely just

ramblings of drunkards. Let us talk where there are no unwanted ears.

When they stepped out, the city guards began harassing the people to drive them away.

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Mordos Kull could tell there was a ruthlessness in the man at his side. In spite of his wisdom,

the captain forced his hand on the peasants. With all that abuse and violence, the city was

barely in control.

To what do I owe this visit, Captain Mezzo?, Mordos Kull asked, feeling that the captains

language seemed to hint on a certain kinship. The captain wasnt one to beat around thebush and he gladly explicated his purpose.

I have received word that the merchant you escorted brought a letter bearing King Braulios

seal. I would like to have that letter, if you dont mind.

Thats not for me to give., Mordos replied, hiding behind the fact that it was not his to begin

with.

Ah yes. You were one of the more honorable kind., Captain Mezzo smiled while stroking

his beard once more. Fair enough. I would like to know then if the letter contained anydetails from his highness about the supplies I had requested.

I dont believe so., Mordos replied, doing his best not to raise the captains suspicions.

Captain Mezzo was a dangerous man to mess around with. From the conversation alone, it

became readily apparent that he had to convince Vlad and Teresa to leave while they still

can. Nothing he said was going to get the captain off them.

The mercenary attempted to turn the captains attention elsewhere, hoping against all hope

that he would forget all that letter business. If you dont mind, Id like to know what is really

happening with the war? The Red Hydra?

The mere name made the captain let out a disappointing sigh. I dont think you need me to

tell you that, Mordos Kull., he snapped back with a hint of irritation. Its all around you. The

chaos you see is from the people is what the war did.

But there has to be some concrete information about the enemy. How to defeat it...

The spies we have are either dead or in the madhouse, Mordos. Everything weve heard

treads on fantasy. If we really had the means to defeat them, they would be yesterdays

news.

Mordos wondered how many of those spies actually had seen the enemies. Was the man

from the tavern recounting an accurate tale? If all the information were being thrown out, then

certainly they werent prepared to face the threat.

All we can do gather the rumours that make sense and plan for that. Even then, you are

never truly prepared for it, whatever that is. You go to war with the army you have, not the

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one you wished for. Plan is nothing and planning is everything.

Mordos could tell that he was not going to get anything informative out of the captain

regarding the Red Hydra. Captain Mezzo was far too close-minded about what the enemies

were. In fairness, anyone who spoke about skeletal warriors would likely be branded as either

mad or simply exploiting some bounty. Perhaps, he was mad for even thinking such a thingexisted.

In pondering about Captain Mezzos views, Mordos was reminded that the captain seemed to

refer to him as some notable person. Learning more about this was a rare opportunity he

couldnt pass up on. "Say, what exactly have you heard about me, if you don't mind me

asking?"

"That you had a fairly impressive and reliable record in the city Medlum as a hired mercenary,

of course."

Medlum? Didnt that city get burned to the ground?, Mordos Kull quickly began to recall bits

from the tidings of the war. It was one scrap of information the captain readily confirmed.

It was the first city to fall into the hands of the Red Hydra, Mordos., Captain Mezzo

nonchalantly replied. They didnt leave anyone alive.

Before Mordos could inquire more about his past, a guard called upon the captains attention,

just as the two were about to reach the citys military station. "Sir, there were reports of civil

disorder in one of the compounds...

Any arrests?, the captain asked without much of a reaction. No doubt, he was used to this

kind of news at this point. Somewhere in his voice was a sick sense of amusement.

We have arrested a female fortune teller."

Captain Mezzos eyes livened up upon hearing about the fortune teller. "Whats the charge?",

he asked eagerly.

"Demon worshipping."

Teresa was in trouble and Mordos thought the only charge she was ever going to get in her

line of work was pickpocketing. Never in his wildest dreams could he imagine that shed be

charged with something as ludicrous as that. If Mordos Kull thought all of this was silly

however, what followed was even more shocking.

Very well. Shell be hanged in the evening.

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Mordos Kulls eyes widened, aghast at what the captain had uttered. Even worse, he could

tell from his voice that citys captain had done this twisted sense of justice many, many times

before. Hold on. Maybe theres more to this., he protested to the captain, knowing that only

he had the clout to talk some sense into him.

Perhaps, Mordos. The charge sounds incredibly odd, but I dont have the coins nor theresources to deal with investigating these matters., Captain Mezzo coolly replied. It is better

to just give what the people want to silence them.

No. If youre not going to look into this. Let me do that., Mordos Kull quickly offered his

service while the sense of urgency swiftly built within him. Let me find out what really

happened.

As long as I dont pay you a coin more, Mordos. You are free to investigate this matter

regardless of whether shes dead or not. If you wish to make a difference in this case

however, you should notify me of the results before I actually hang the witch., the captainspoke with a smirk in his face.

Then, I would like to speak to the fortune teller in your custody.

Captain Leopoldo Mezzo was the law of Torboli and the law had spoken, giving Mordos a

terribly tight time frame to work with. Where did all this demonic chatter come from? What

really happened to her? Mordos Kull could only hope that by meeting Teresa, he would find

out the truth in all of this.

~o~

In the dark dank dungeons deep beneath the city walls where beaten down crooks await their

end, Mordos Kull was accompanied by a guard to the cell at the far end. There, he finally saw

Teresa once again, though he wished their reunion was under better circumstances.

Mordos!, Teresa screamed, the mixture of fear and panic evident in her teary eyes. There

were bruises on her arms and a cut on her lip. Shed been through a lot at the hands of the

angry town folks. You have to help me! They are going to hang me!, she stammered and

rambled in hysteria.

Take a deep breath, Teresa. Im here., Mordos whispered. He wanted to embrace her, but

the bars that separated them served as a reminder of the fate that could befall her. Im trying

to help, Teresa, but you have to give me something here.

What... what do they want?

Relax and clear your mind, Teresa. Lets start from what you last remember.

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Thats the problem! I dont remember!, she replied then proceeded to break down into tears

again. Knowing that Mordos Kull was here to help though, Teresa gathered her thoughts and

tried to put out something cognitive. All I know was that it wasnt a good day for business. A

lot of people inquired, but I had only two readings that day... I think... I dont know. The first

went by fine and the second... I... I... there were three men... and...

Mordos Kulls eyes narrowed as he tried to piece together the puzzle that was forming. He

could tell that Teresa was expending a lot of energy trying to remember. Whatever it was that

blocked her memory was not yielding. One thing that was certain though was that it had

something to do with those men. Perhaps there were more clues in her tent.

... all I remember after was being dragged out of the tent. Father couldnt stop the city

guards. There was an angry mob... and guards...

Trying to make her feel better, Mordos Kull reached out and grabbed her hand. Stay safe,Teresa. Ill be back and Ill get you out of this place.

As Mordos was letting go though, Teresa tightened her grip. For a moment their eyes met,

the sorrow in her eyes told him the agony that tortured her heart. Mordos Kull knew it had

something to do with him.

I told father... about us...

And...?

You bastard!

Vlad Prado threw down the food he brought and charged forward, picking up a wooden chair

to strike the mercenary with. Terence was behind him, in clear confusion over what was

unravelling before him. The city guards quickly intervened and restrained the merchant.

Mordos Kull quickly appealed to the guards to let him go in the midst of screams from Vlads

frightened daughter.

You dare show your face after defiling my daughter?!, Vlad screamed while trying to kick

him from afar.

Calm down, Vlad., Mordos responded. I wasnt taking advantage of your daughter.

You vile vermin! I knew there was something going on!

Father! Were in love!, Teresa protested with words that held no power to alter the course of

this encounter. I want him as much as he wants me.

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Why? Why?!, Vlad continued to ramble while the guards continued to grip his arms.

Vlad, I love your daughter and Im sorry that you had to find out this way., Mordos Kull said.

But even if you hate me, you have to listen. Your daughters life is at stake and Ill be

damned if Im going to let them take her away from us.

After hearing those words, Vlad started to get a hold of his anger. The disdain in his face

remains perfectly intact, but he was giving Mordos Kull time to speak, time that the mercenary

seized with both hands.

Im going to prove she is innocent. Im going to take her home to you, Vlad. I promise.

Vlad took a deep breath as the guards let go of him. He was starting to see the sense in

those words. The words Mordos spoke were from the heart. Teresas life hung in the

balance, and it was up to the mercenary to save her.

Go and make haste.

Mordos Kull left the dungeons and went straight to Teresas tent. Vlad on the other hand

stayed behind to accompany his daughter in her most trying time yet. Terence was with his

father there, no doubt confused by the hostility towards his sister.

Entering the tent, Mordos Kull immediately could tell the scene was the end result of chaos

and violence. Right before him was Teresa's crystal ball. There were soil markings near it,

indicating that the ball had rolled there with considerable force. The tables and chairs were indisarray, the markings on the ground seemed to imply many people and most likely a great

struggle.

Mordos Kull took a closer look at the table cloth, noticing how damp it was. Immediately, he

sensed the scent of strong ale. The picture was forming in his mind, and so were the

identities of the men involved. Pulling the cloth revealed a mug, just like the one he had in the

tavern. Mordos Kull instantly recalled the conversation that took place earlier about the

drunkards wanting to consult the fortune teller. It could have easily been those idiots, most

likely perturbed by Teresa's performance with the help of some alcohol.

Even though Mordos Kull had a good idea what had happened, he wasn't about to jump to

conclusions yet. With great diligence, he scoured the area for clues, with each one

reaffirming the picture that was forming. What he couldnt find however, was evidence of

anything out of the ordinary happening. It all seemed like a physical scramble from what hed

seen.

The markings on the ground showed the guards barged in to arrest her, but there were subtle

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ones that came from drunks. While trying to get a clear idea of what happened, his

observations lead him to a mighty discovery, one that served a critical piece to more puzzles

than one.

Half buried on the soil near the fallen table by foot stomps was a token. One side had

engraved some form of royal crest. Below it read:

Duke of Ebrio, 1300

. The other side wassmeared with red paint forming the Hydra.

Ebrio

In Mordos fingers was a clue to where the Red Hydra army possibly originated. Ebrio was

several hundred of miles away from the country of Vitulia. The number hinted that the token

was created this year. Was it an invasion from another country? Did Ebrio fall prey to this

unbeatable foe this year? So many questions with very little in the way of answers.

What the token did answer with certainty though was that mysterious man from the taverncame with the drunken men. Worse still was that the more Mordos thought about it, the more

the entire incident felt calculated. But what was this about? Why did the mysterious stranger

leave this token behind?

If Mordos Kull was going to confront this man, he needed more than just this trinket in hand.

After all, the man's presence didn't clear Teresa's name from the spurious charge against her.

He had to see her again with the hope that it would jolt her memory. There had to be some

irrefutable proof of her innocent somewhere.

As Mordos stepped out of the tent, his eyes rose to the red fiery hue of the sky. It was a starkreminder that time waited for no one. Every second that slipped by was a second closer to

Teresas demise. The mere thought of what would happen to her drove the mercenary into

action. Everything he did for her was out of love, but he knew very well it would take more

than that to change her fate.

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III

As Mordos Kull trudged through the city dungeons, he studied the coin he retrieved from

Teresas tent. There was a link between the Red Hydra and the Duke of Ebrio, but why werethe Ebrians involved? The Duke of Ebrio was Malanoche de Castillo, who had

long-established alliance with King Braulio of Vitulia. Most of that relationship was

trade-based and as far as he could tell, there were never signs of hostility from either camp.

Beyond that fact however was woefully nothing but errant whispers from men in the barracks

and taverns. Sorting fact from fiction was a gargantuan task bordering on impossibility.

While looking closely at the coin, Mordos Kull started to feel an unexplained anxiety. All he

could think of was the coin in his hand. Was it really the key to Teresas innocence?

Soon, Mordos found Teresas cell. The tray of food was on the floor, cold and untouched.Teresas sobs echoed in his mind, torturing him to no end.

Teresa, you should eat., he implored, but she seemed to have fallen in a state of delirium.

They will kill me, Mordos., Teresa muttered. I... I...

Listen!, Mordos voice boomed. Youre not guilty! I can prove it, but only if you help me.

Teresas eyes rose and recognized the coin in his fingers. He could see the swift change in

her demeanor as soon as it was revealed. Ive seen that!, she exclaimed, though one had towonder whether her words were out of excitement or fear.

The moment Teresa touched the coin however, a burst of light blinded Mordos Kull to

everything but her face. Swiftly, he could see Teresas eyes glowing with an energy that he

had never witnessed before.

What sort of witchcraft is this?, he muttered underneath his

breath in shock.

We finally meet., Teresa spoke, but Mordos knew it wasnt really the woman he loved who

was talking. Who are you?, he shouted, making her smile in the process.

I am the lady of your destiny. I hold the answers you seek.

Destiny? Answers? What madness do you speak of?!

The white walls that took Mordos vision collapsed. Swiftly, he realized he was standing in the

middle of a burning city, with Teresa glowing before him.

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No!, Mordos Kull retorted. This is the work of some evil magic. Its from the Red Hydra!

The captain laughed at his response. If you speak like that, youd end up in the madhouse

like the rest of them!

But youve seen the magic! Its from the coin!, he continued to explain while looking for theEbrian coin. Unfortunately for him, the metal trinket was nowhere in sight. Teresas breathing

had normalized, but she was in no state to help him. She was spent from the magical token

that had vanished.

Take him away. The witch will be hung at moonrise., the captain declared. Your services

are well-appreciated, Mordos Kull. Efficient, as always.

Mordos Kull bolted out of the dungeon in great frustration as one of the attendants called for

the captains attention. In Mordos heart, he felt he still had time to sway the captains

decision and save her, but he needed answers fast. What was the Covenant in that visionand what did the mysterious man have to do with them? Was the Duke of Ebrio involved?

He decided to visit the tavern, looking for the one man who held the answers.

~o~

Youre looking for that little rascal? Smart looking fellow with a knack for attention? Yeah, he

stays in the room upstairs., the bartender told Mordos Kull. I heard it could be his last night

in. He doesnt want visitors snooping around.

Im more than a visitor. Im his long lost friend., Mordos Kull cracked, tossing a coin for thekeeper while lugging his shield and morning star with him.

The wooden door was shut when the mercenary got there, but he could tell something was

happening in there. With one strong heave, the door flung open, shocking the man inside.

Candles were all around the room with burning incense right in the middle. This mysterious

man before him had a scheme, and the mercenary was going to beat it out of him if he had to.

What are you doing here?, the man exclaimed but it only amused the mercenary.

Dont they all ask that?, Mordos Kull cracked while stepping on one of the candles on the

floor. I should be the one asking that question, not you.

Just then, the man pulled out a crescent knife and assaulted the mercenary. The surprise

attack was nothing Mordos couldnt handle. In a flash, the man was on the floor with a loud

thud with the weapon directed at his throat.

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Exquisite weapon. They dont make those here., Mordos Kull spoke. They dont make

them in Ebrio either. Who are you?

At first the man resisted to speak, but with the tip of the knife touching his neck, he quickly

succumbed to the famed mercenary.

I am just a hired man, like you... but Im from Aravya... under instructions... from Sultan

Khalid...

A sultan from Aravya?, Mordos pondered. But what did it have to do with the Duke of Ebrio?

The contessa..., the man muttered.

Contessa? Of Ebrio?

Let me go. Let me show you., the Aravyan mercenary whispered, prompting Mordos Kull torelease his hold.

The Aravyan went to his desk, but not to find the evidence that Mordos sought. Instead, he

picked up a concealed knife and drove it into his heart while letting out one final scream.

Whatever secrets he knew, he took it with him to his grave.

Seeing the dead did not shock Mordos Kull. He immediately went to check the dead man, but

there was nothing on him. Swiftly he turned his attention to the table and found a cryptic

parchment. Unfortunately, it was in a language he couldnt understand. What it was though

was proof that the magic wasnt Teresas doing. That was all that mattered.

Just then, the city guards showed up at the doorstep of the room. One sergeant appeared

and produced an arrest warrant, no doubt complicating this case even more for the

mercenary. You are under arrest, Mordos Kull... for assisting a witch, trespassing the city

limits and using a fraudulent letter in the name of the King... and for murder.

I have no time for this., Mordos Kull spoke while releasing the morning star from its bonds.

Everything started out of his love for Teresa, and in a mission that had swiftly spiraled out of

control, it was that emotion that drove him to his limits. He was exasperated by all of the

things that did go wrong. Seeing the guards intervening was just the final straw. He wasn't

going to stand and try to talk this one out. Time was of the essence and these men were in

the way of Teresa's freedom.

A battle broke out, and Mordos Kull unleashed a fury like no other. It was as if his mind was

possessed by the devil himself. One by one, the city guards fell from the might of his weapon.

The scene had quickly turned into a tragic blood bath.

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Mordos Kull quickly looked at the windows and realized night had already fallen. Bell tolls

were heard from the city square where no doubt Teresa was to be hung. He quickly surmised

though that she was likely not the only one to be executed there, for the charges the guards

levelled on him hinted that Captain Mezzo had seen Vlads fraudulent letter as well.

Taking the parchment, Mordos Kull raced to the streets with fresh blood dripping from histunic and his weapon. A quick glimpse of him was enough to send the people away in fear.

More guards appeared to apprehend him, but his skill was too great for any of them.

Captain Mezzo stood from the wooden stage with Teresa and Vlad restrained by guards and

noose around their necks. Quickly, one of the guards had pushed Terence on stage, with the

captain declaring a ban on the boy for partaking in the charade against the King of Vitulia. He

then addressed the crowd over the charges against the father and daughter.

Mordos Kull screamed while taking down foe after foe, hoping against all hope to reach

Captain Mezzo and clear her name. Seeing the blood drenched mercenary before hermortified Teresa. The ruthless savagery he displayed was something she had never

imagined to come out of him. Even worse, it was all for her sake and she wanted nothing to

do with such a hateful massacre.

Halt!

The fury of the battle forced the captain to cease all combat and bring the mercenary to him.

As Mordos Kull made his way, Teresa looked away, shocked at what the mercenary had

done. She knew he was trying everything to save her, but so much death for that broke her

heart.

With a heavy breath, he stood there face to face with Captain Mezzo, holding in his hand the

bloodied parchment from the Aravyan. This! This is what you want! She is not a witch! This

is from an Aravyan mercenary!, he uttered with conviction. He didn't realize however, that his

obsession had blinded him to what he had done.

This is no longer about that, Mordos Kull. The captain produced the letter that Vlad used to

gain entry into the city. Her father gave me the letter when I asked for it. He foolishly tried to

bargain for her freedom with it, but he condemned himself and her for using the name of his

highness.

I am the law of Torboli, and I have declared them guilty!

Teresas proceeded to struggle frantically after his declaration, but her whimpers were quickly

silenced. The trap door swung opened and in a blink of an eye, she was gone, her neck

breaking from the tremendous force.

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No!, Mordos Kull cried but before he could react, the captain drew his sword and pointed it

at his chest. Your case is equally easy, Mordos Kull. I can tell from your clothes alone that

the only penalty worthy for a killer is death.

In a flash, a red and black feathered arrow struck the captain in his heart. The lifeless captain

fell off the stage and onto the floor, his eyes staring high up to the arrow filled sky. MordosKull took his shield and proceeded to protect Terence and Vlad as everyone was being

massacred by death from above.

After being released from his bonds, Vlad pulled the sword from the dead guard that

restrained him and cut the rope that gripped Teresas neck. Her passing pained both of them

very much, and in this moment where their survival mattered first and foremost, Vlad

immediately tended to his daughter's lifeless body.

Just then, the large city gates had burst into magical flames, and hordes of dreadful skeletal

warriors marched in to slaughter everyone in their way. Nobody was going to survive, Mordosknew that much.

We have to flee!, Mordos commanded Vlad and Terence while the arrows from the sky

continued to hammer his shield.

The three of them fled to one of the houses nearby, hoping it would buy them some time to

plan an escape. Vlad carried Teresa all the way through. As Mordos burst in, he realized that

several families had taken refuge there, all of them hoping against hope that they could

survive the assault on Torboli.

For a moment, they were away from the frenetic pace of battle. Vlad lowered Teresa on the

floor, caressing her pale cheeks as tears rolled down. Looking back up, he could tell the

tragedy was equally hard for the mercenary. In Vlads heart, however, he had no sympathy

for him. Ever since the mercenary had betrayed his trust, he could not see that man in the

same light. You. You ruined everything I have done for my family.

Vlad..., Mordos Kull hushed as the reality of what had happened was settling in. Teresa was

gone, and the moments they shared together were now simply memories. Their love was not

meant to be. The mercenary would be woefully reminded though that this was not yet the

time to grieve.

Skeletal warriors barged into the place, scaring the peasants by their frightful visage.

Carrying swords, shields and spears, they threatened to overwhelm everyone who foolishly

faced them.

Vlad, we must flee!, Mordos Kull screamed, pushing Vlad and Terence behind him while

hoisting Teresa on his shoulders. Vlad no longer listened to him, however.

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Do not touch my daughter!, the grieving father cried before yanking Teresas body from the

mercenary. Mordos Kull stood there dismayed, realizing that any hope of reconciliation was

lost. He hoped things were different. He wished he asked for Teresas father for his blessing.

Perhaps all of this would have turned out different.

Something caught Mordos Kulls eye while pondering on how to save the stubborn father who

refused his aid. It dawned upon him that they were in some compound for developing

explosives. Tossing a few of them on the floor created a spectacular blaze of fire that

seemed to slow down the threat. It was the chance for them to flee through the backdoor and

Mordos Kull wasted no time.

Through the wall of flames, spears from the skeletons started to fly, striking down some of the

peasants. Mordos did what he could to deflect the attacks, but one of the spears found its

way to Vlad, critically wounding the old man.

Mordos Kull quickly swiped a few more rounds of explosives and bit the rope that bound them

with his teeth. After bringing both Teresa and Vlad out the back door, he tossed a few of

them, collapsing the house and sealing off any means of chase.

When he turned to finally check on him, Vlad had bled to death. Witnessing Teresas father

dying in his arms weakened his limbs. His sorrows were not ignored by the peasants as they

assisted their saviour in carrying the dead while they all fled from the city sewers to the hills.

The enemies did not give chase, but they didnt need to. Torboli had fallen in one night, and

there was no warning of the threat that was approaching.

All it took was one night for everything to turn awry for the mercenary. Before he knew it, he

was killing man after man like a psychopath. In a blink of an eye, his friend Vlad was dead.

Worst of all, the love of his life was mercilessly taken away from him. Even though he was

around stragglers and survivors, he felt alone.

Mordos Kull knelt down and cried, his weeps joining the sorrowful chorus of the people

around him. He grieved as much as they did for everything they had lost. In that moment of

pain and agony, someone called out to him.

I understand now..., Terence whispered into his ears. I understand what war is now...

Terence was a sweet boy who realized nothing of the pains the real world provided before

today. This was the moment his eyes had been opened to how cruel it was to be alive.

Mordos Kull looked up to see how the boy was doing. As he did though, he noticed there

were no tears from Terence. He was now a man.

Im sorry, Terence. Im sorry for failing you and Vlad and Teresa.

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Are you going to stop them?

The question made him pause to gather his thoughts. Swiftly, dreadful images of the Red

Hydra flashed in his mind, followed by the mysterious woman that appeared in his vision in

the midst of the fiery blaze that torched the city of Medlum.

Take the sacrifice for the covenant...

Mordos Kull rose and looked back at Torbolis fall into evil and realizing that unlike the tragedy

that befell Medlum, things were different now. Though much of the mystery of the evil

remained hidden, this time there were clues to chase that lead to understanding and hopefully

defeating the enemy that threatened to consume all of Vitulia.

From the ashes of the cursed city of Torboli rose a champion, resolved to take the sacrifice for

everyone.

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Documents

The Fall Into Evil