Master of Darkness
Chapter 1: The Rogue Monastery
The man was walking through the forest on his way to the Rogue Monastery. Suddenly he heard the sound of battle and drew his sword. He quickly approached the battlefield and peered out from behind the trees. Dozens of goatmen were attacking an assassin from all sides. The clearing was covered with the body of dead goatmen but more and more poured out. The assassin moved quickly and gracefully, slashing through and cutting down any goatman that got close to her. Suddenly two magic arrows struck her from behind and she tripped. She quickly got back onto her feet and killed two more approaching her, but another arrow struck her. The man quickly located the archers. He also had a bow and raised it. He took aim and fired three arrows of mana and killed the archers. The other goatmen looked at him in surprise and this gave the assassin enough time to strike down several more. The man shouldered his bow and charged out with his sword. He moved like lightning, severing several heads in one clean swing. Several other goatmen approached him nervously, not daring to attack. He took the opportunity and white light blazed from his hand, incinerating the goatmen that stood before him. The assassin finished off a few more before the others all retreated. She started to chase but the man stepped to her side and grabbed her arm, stopping her.
"They have an ambush prepared," he said, "I don't think even you would survive."
She shook off his hand and glared at him. The man simply turned away and started walking again. He wiped his sword on some leaves and sheathed it.
"I suggest you clean your weapons as well," he said, "The blood of goatmen can corrode even the strongest steel, and I doubt your weapons are that fine. I'm sure you know that, however."
The assassin gave him a curious look this time and wiped the blood off of her Katars with some large leaves. The man left the clearing and continued on his way towards the monastery. He wasn't surprised to hear the assassin following him, though she was doing a rather good job staying quiet. He smiled to himself. If the assassin wanted to follow him, he might as well give her some challenge. He broke out into a run and dashed through the forest. The assassin kept up with him, though she stayed back. After thirty minutes of running, the two arrived at the monastery, though the assassin still hung back. The man walked out of the forest to let the Rogues on guard see who it was. The doors opened and Falvie appeared.
"It has been a long time," she said.
"Indeed. Though I only passed through a few weeks ago," he replied with a grin.
She nodded.
"There's an assassin following me. She might want to come in too."
"Attracting more women?" she asked with a smile.
"I intervened in a little skirmish she had with some goatmen," the man answered.
"Goatmen," Falvie said with a sneer, "We had hoped that such things would disappear with the destruction of the Prime Evils."
"Unfortunately the Worldstone was also destroyed," the man reminded her, "but don't worry. I'm sure they won't be such a great threat to you and your sisters."
Falvie smiled and nodded at the man as he walked in. The assassin also came out of the forest and Falvie waited for her to go in before closing the door. Dozens of Rogues were in the monastery, glancing at the man and the assassin. Suddenly Kashya appeared and greeted the man.
"My friend," she said, "I had thought perhaps you had fallen prey to the many demons outside."
"Hardly," the man replied, "It is they who fell prey to me."
"Who is the assassin with you?" Kashya asked.
"You might ask her yourself. She didn't give me a name."
A few other Rogues had appeared and greeted the man. The assassin wasn't exactly what to make of all this. Just then she sensed a mage behind her. She turned around and found an old woman standing behind her.
"I am Akara, High Priestess of the Sisterhood," she said, "What brings you to our monastery?"
"Him," the assassin motioned, "I was attacked by goatmen and he helped me. Who is he?"
"You may not have heard of his real name," said Akara, "but you might know him as the Hand of Light."
The assassin gasped. The man that had saved him was the man that had slain the three Prime Evils, as well as the Lesser Evils.
"He is the Hand of Light?" she said in wonder, "but why is he here?"
"He does not tell us why he comes or goes," said Akara, "though I hear he has traveled around a lot. He appeared by a portal several weeks ago and went into the wilderness, for reason that none of us know. But it is good to see that he survived."
The assassin nodded. "Perhaps I should thank him."
"That is the least you could do," said Akara, "Do you wish me to introduce the two of you?"
"No thank you. I will be fine by myself."
"As you wish child."
Akara seemed to disappear and the assassin approached the man. The legendary Hand of Light, the man that had the confidence and support of the Archangel Tyrael. The man had gone down to Hell and killed Diablo, defeated the corrupted council of the Zakarum and slew Mephisto, and finally confronted Baal in the Worldstone Chamber and defeated Baal as well as his clone. His acts were told all across the land and he was a hero to all people who walked in the light. The assassin wasn't sure what twist of fate brought her to him, but she would not let the chance to get to know him slip away. The man saw him coming and excused himself from the group of Rogues. They saw her as well and all had an amused look on their faces.
"Uh, thanks," the assassin stuttered out.
"You're welcome," the man replied, "So what were you doing out in that forest?"
"I was doing what any assassin would do in a time like this. Fighting the minions of Hell."
"Hmm. Well, that is certainly what you ended up doing. What is your name?"
"I am Kari."
"The name is Marko."
Kari had not expected him to actually tell her his name and didn't know what to say.
"Nice to meet you," he said and extended his hand.
Kari took it and the two shook.
"Are you planning to stay the night?" Marko asked, "At the very least you would need to get your equipment repaired."
Kari nodded. "I will be staying overnight. I'm leaving tomorrow for Lut Gholein."
"What an interesting coincidence. I am also traveling to Lut Gholein. Care to join me?"
Kari was getting suspicious. This man was perhaps the most famous in the world and he was offering her the chance to travel with him? Did he have ulterior motives? Well, she'd have to figure that out soon.
"I will tell you tomorrow," she said.
"Fair enough. Kashya! Is Charsi still in shop?"
"She should be," Kashya answered.
"Thanks."
Marko turned and walked deeper into the monastery. Kari quickly followed him. He was right, her weapons could use a little work. She soon found herself inside a large workshop and saw a woman pounding on a strip of metal with a large hammer. There were several other women working there too. Marko walked over to her with Kari behind him.
"Hey Charsi."
The woman looked up and smiled when she saw Marko.
"Marko! Long time no see."
He put his bow in front of her.
"Can you finish looking over and repairing this by tomorrow morning?" he asked.
"Sure. Shouldn't be too bad."
"Thanks."
"Who's she?" Charsi asked.
"Her name's Kari," Marko spoke before Kari could open her mouth, "She'll also need you to look over her Katars and have them ready by tomorrow."
"Okay. Just leave your weapons here for tonight."
Kari reluctantly handed over her Katars. The two had seen her through thick and thin and she held them very dear.
"I'll take good care of them," Charsi assured her, as if she could read her thoughts.
Kari nodded.
"I'll see you tomorrow," Marko said before turning and taking his leave.
Kari was right behind him. Marko stopped one of the Rogues and asked her a question but Kari didn't hear what they said. He simply nodded and thanked her.
"There are only two spare rooms in the west wing," he said, "Warriv's men have taken up most of the room."
"Warriv?"
"He's a merchant. I travel with him a lot. Besides, that's the only caravan that's going to Lut Gholein so I'll have to go with him."
"And he's leaving tomorrow?"
"Yes."
"So I'll have to go with you."
Marko sighed. "I can understand why you don't trust me, but I don't hold anything against you for it. These are dangerous times. However, I'm sure Warriv will be glad to take on another warrior. He'll need plenty of protection once we enter the Aranoch Desert. It was still a nasty place the last time I traveled through it."
Marko led them through the halls and they soon were in front of two doors.
"Take your pick," he said.
Kari picked the left room. Marko walked into the right room and took off his armor. He leaned his sword against the wall and stretched out. The blade of his weapon never needed sharpening and could never be destroyed. He had made that weapon himself using his magic and it was a powerful sword. It was most likely unique as well. His armor was completely black and fit him nicely. It wasn't bulky and offered great protection against any weapon. The black cloak he wore over his armor was also useful. It absorbed magical spells and had saved him several times before. The armor retracted into a cast-like structure and he took it off. He then wrapped it in his cloak. He took a bath and changed into a fresh set of clothes that he had brought with him. The old ones he washed and hung up outside to dry. Hopefully they would be ready tomorrow or he'd have to use magic to dry them. It didn't cause any problems but was a waste of energy. After that he headed down to the dining hall. Many Rogues had heard that he had returned and were waiting in the dining hall for him. After he had killed Blood Raven and Andariel they felt they owed a debt to him. He tried to downplay it but it didn't work so he just accepted it. Kari was already eating and talking with many of the Rogues. He took a seat at the opposite end of the table and began a conversation with two Rogues and one of the caravan guards.
"What is he like?" Kari asked Falvie.
"He's an honorable man," she answered, "I have known far worse in my lifetime."
"He's also rather handsome," another added.
"Has he ever rescued other women?"
"Not that I know of," Falvie answered, "You are the first that we know of. And he's never asked a woman if she would like to accompany him on his journey. When one of us asked if we may come with him he said that the journey was far too dangerous, that he barely makes it out alive. Who can argue with that?"
Kari nodded. She had figured that he wasn't trying to harm her. Maybe he really did want to get to know her. But he did save her. That caused an interesting twist. She popped another piece of meat into her mouth and chewed it thoughtfully.
"So are you going to accept his offer?" a Rogue asked her.
"Probably," Kari answered, "I mean, we'll probably be traveling on the same caravan anyways."
"I must say, you are rather lucky," Falvie said, "Getting saved by Marko and then getting asked to accompany him."
"Well, he is an interesting man. I guess I'd like to get to know him."
"Alarm! Goatmen are attacking the monastery!"
All of the Rogues jumped out of their chairs and ran for the armory. Kari pushed her way through the crowd for her room. Her armor was in it and she would need them if she was going to fight. She ran into her room and slipped on her armor and ran down to the workshop. Charsi had taken out a large battleaxe and when she saw Kari she threw her the Katars. Kari strapped them on and ran out to the monastery grounds and up to where the archers were firing. Goatmen were running out of the forest and charging the wall. The Rogues had slaughtered many of the goatmen but more were pouring through. Some soon reached the monastery walls. A large battering ram was brought up, though the Rogues picked off several of the carriers. Others took their places and they were soon ramming the doors. Kari ran down from the towers and headed towards the door. Many Rogues were trying to hold the door back but the battering ram was too powerful. It drove open the door and goatmen poured through. The Rogues fell back and fought with swords. Charsi leaped into the battle, swinging her axe about and cleaving goatmen in half. The door was now wide open and more goatmen were pouring through. Kari joined the battle with several of the caravan guards behind her and cut down several other goatmen. More quickly piled through and attacked, driving the defenders back. Charsi took an arrow in the side and another Rogue carried her away, her battleaxe dropping. Kari looked around her. Dozens of Rogues had come to join the battle but Marko was still missing. She suddenly felt a massive surge in magical energies and the front lines of the goatmen exploded. Their organs and blood splattered all over the grounds. More rushed through but they met the same fate as their comrades. Marko suddenly appeared in a flash of blue light. He charged with his sword and sent any goatman that got into his way flying, if he did not outright slice them into pieces. Their body parts flew as Marko cut his way through their ranks. He waved his hand and a few dozen more goatmen exploded. Kari was slightly speechless at what Marko was doing. He waved his hand again and more goatmen exploded. Now all of the goatmen were retreating from the onslaught. Marko unleashed a massive firestorm that wiped out half of the retreating goatmen. He then set off a chain nova spell which jumped from one goatman to another, frying them to a crisp. Within a few minutes a quiet had settled. Marko leaned on his sword for support, exhausted. Kari ran over to him.
"You okay?" she asked.
"Very tired," he answered, "Very very tired."
"Let's get you back inside," she said and let him drape his shoulder over her neck.
"No," he said, "Get me to wherever they're putting the wounded. My work isn't finished yet."
"Don't be ridiculous! You did plenty! You repulsed the attack!"
"Get me to the infirmary!" he said firmly.
Kari considered trying to talk him out of it again but saw that it would do no good. She stopped one of the Rogues.
"Where are the wounded being moved?" she asked.
"Into the dining hall," the Rogue answered before running off.
Kari helped Marko into the dining hall and saw dozens of injured Rogues resting on tables and chairs. Akara was attending to them and doing her best.
"Get me to Charsi," Marko commanded.
Kari led Marko to where Charsi was lying. The spear had been removed and two Rogues were cleaning her wound. Marko waved them off and they reluctantly moved aside for him. They remained and watched curiously as he sat down next to her. He raised his hand over the wound and both his hand and the wound started to glow a soft blue. A few seconds later the wound closed and was healed. The two Rogues gasped.
"Get me to the other wounded," he ordered.
Kari and the two Rogues supported him as he worked from one injured to another, healing them. Akara soon joined them. She had also been healing others but could not do anything about the ones that had suffered serious injures. She took care of the ones with light wounds while Marko healed the ones that would most likely die from their wounds. When he was finished, he collapsed into a chair and would have fallen off had Kari not caught him.
"You okay?" she asked again.
"Just tired. I need to get some sleep."
She and two other Rogues carried him back to his room. He suddenly pushed a button on his armor and it retracted. The two Rogues helped him out of his armor and he fell onto the bed and was asleep in seconds.
"He is a greater man than he takes credit for," one of the Rogues said when they were out of his room.
"He is," Kari agreed, "but why did he invite me to travel with him?"
"Sometimes great men make choices that are lacking in reason when others think of them," the other Rogue said, "Who knows? But if you do travel with him, the two of you will probably encounter great challenges and adventure."
"I'm a mage-slayer," Kari said, "I don't even know what I'm supposed to do anymore. The world is so full of demons and monsters that it all seems hopeless."
"Never lose hope, my child."
The two Rogues bowed and left as Akara appeared.
"You saw how Marko fought. He fights with his heart, not just with magic and swords. Learn to do that, and hope will never fade from you."
Kari nodded. "Thank you Akara. I had better get some sleep. The caravan is leaving tomorrow."
"Hardly. After that attack, they're probably going to stay put for another week."
"Oh. Well, that'll probably change Marko's plans. If he wakes before me, tell him I plan on going with him wherever he goes."
Kari went back into her room and took off her armor. She put them to one side of her room and went to sleep. She would need all the rest she could get before she set out with Marko.
Kari looked around her. Everything was shrouded in absolute darkness. She was wearing a beautiful full-body armor and had twin Katars strapped on her arms. Both Katars were finer than any she had ever seen before and they brimmed with power. Suddenly doors opened and light poured into the chamber. She shielded her eyes from the light until they had adjusted. She walked into the light and came out on a massive plaza. She was standing on a massive road paved of pure white limestone that led to a massive arch at the center of the plaza. The arch was made of a beauty purple-bluish crystal and had four feet. At the top, where the four feet intersected, a sphere of absolute light composed of fire and ice seemed to gaze down upon all that surrounded it. Under the arch, a large blue crystal in the shape of a pyramid stood. The entire thing was massive, yet it only covered a small part of the plaza. She then realized that there were other beings standing on the side of the road where she was. Archangels, in all their splendor and magnificence, stood side by side on both sides of the road. Kari started walking down the road. All of the Archangels seemed to be looking at her, studying her, measuring her with their hidden eyes. She tried to ignore their probing looks and instead concentrated on her surroundings. The plaza was floating above what seemed to be a fortress composed of white crystals. Surrounding the fortress was a massive city, larger than all of the great cities in the world combined. It must have stretched for miles and miles before ending at tall white stone walls. The walls sparkled from reflected light and were so high Kari could see them clearly from where she stood, towering over the outskirts of the city yet no shadow touched it. A road led to the palace straight through the city to the wall and a large gate stood. The gate was wrought out of a metal far stronger than any that mortals could make and would stop any that tried to break into the city itself. Kari then turned her attention to what was in front of her. She had almost reached the massive arch. There an angel moved forward with a pillow. Kari took off her Katars and placed them on the pillow and the angel took them away. Then, an Archangel appeared. Kari gasped as she recognized the Archangel. Tyrael, one of the most powerful Archangels of the High Heaven. He presented her with a beautiful sword and she took it. The blade was as tall as she was from her knees up. It had a large blue gem embedded on the hilt and there were arcane carvings on the blade of the sword as well.
"Archangel Kailua," Tyrael suddenly said, his words carried across the plaza, "Are you ready to face the Master of Darkness?"
Kari was so stunned that at first she didn't speak.
Suddenly, her eyes snapped open. Sweat ran down her forehead. She did not know what her dream was about but she was sure that it was important. She got up and washed her face in the basin left in her room. Her armor and weapons were gone but she didn't feel worried. If the Rogues or Marko wanted to harm her, they would have already done so. She walked down to the dining hall and found Marko already seated by Falvie. She waved for Kari to join them and Marko caught sight of her. Kari walked over and sat down next to Marko.
"Did you rest well," Falvie asked.
"Well enough."
"Thanks for helping us last night," Falvie said.
"It wasn't much. Marko was the one here that dispersed them. What was that spell you used?"
"Apocalypse."
Kari gasped but Falvie and several other Rogues just smiled.
"I thought it was impossible for any mage to learn how to use that spell without scrolls," Kari finally managed to say.
"None of those mages were as powerful as me. Believe me, I've had to become that powerful. After facing Mephisto, Diablo, and Baal, if I hadn't learned how to control that much magic I would be dead."
"And the world is glad that you have become so powerful," said Falvie, "You are the slayer of the three Prime Evils."
Marko grunted. "Warriv won't be leaving for another week so I have some time to take care of unfinished business. Kari, want to come with me into the forest?"
Kari was taken by surprise by the offer but nodded. Marko finished eating and went up to his room. When Kari went back to hers, he was already in his armor. The black metal showed not a slightest hint that it had been in battle the day before. Marko's hood was up and he was leaning against the wall. Kari went into her room and found her armor and Katars in her room. They were also clean. She put them on and walked out into the garden with Marko. The two stepped on a waypoint and they were teleported into a forest.
"Where are we?" Kari asked.
"We're pretty close to a large encampment of goatmen," Marko answered, "I believe they are Moon Clan. They're the ones that attacked you and the monastery."
"So why are we here?" Kari asked nervously.
"We're going to take out their encampment."
Kari looked at the back of Marko's head and started to wonder whether it was empty or not.
"After I killed Andariel and cleared out all of the demons and monsters in the monastery the Rogues abandoned their old camp and moved back in. However, a large army of goatmen moved into the camp and took it over."
"And what can two people do against an army of goatmen?" she asked.
"Well, it won't exactly be just the two of us," Marko confessed.
"What? You have a hidden army out here?"
"Uh, more or less, yes."
Kari gave him a confused look but Marko ignored it. He stood up and waved his hand. Suddenly, a dozen Fire Golems appeared out of thing air. Kari gasped and looked at the massive creatures.
"As I said, we aren't exactly alone."
"You're a Necromancer!" Kari stuttered out.
"Not really. Even though I can raise dead demons and skeletons and such, I've found that those skills are pretty much useless. However, raising golems is useful."
"But, how did you learn their magic?"
"I have my ways. Come on. The goatmen probably already spotted all these golems. Let's give them nasty surprise."
Kari snapped out of it and followed Marko. The golems followed them and Marko ordered them to break down the walls of the encampment. They used their hands to set fire to the wooden walls and soon much of the enemy encampment was in flames. Goatmen charged out and attacked the golems. Marko and Kari were immediately in the middle of the battle, striking down goatman after goatman. They killed more and more goatmen, with the golems supporting them and burning any goatman they touched. The fighting swung back and forth as the two sides fought for the remains of the camp. Kari didn't understand why the goatmen were so desperate to take back ruins but she kept on fighting. Three goatmen tried to team up on her but she sliced one into five pieces quickly while she beheaded the other two. A golem grabbed a charging goatman by its horns and smashed its face into pieces. It then burned right through the armor and skin of another and incinerated its heart. The other golems fought in similar fashion. Kari suddenly saw skeletons appearing from the corpses of the dead goatmen. They were wearing battle armor and all carried a shield and some sort of melee weapon. They charged and crashed into the ranks of the goatmen, smashing it with every skirmish. Skeleton mages were also being raised, and they quickly destroyed several enemy squadrons with their magic. Kari saw one Ice Mage freeze five goatmen and two skeleton warriors charge in and smash them to pieces. The two armies clashed and soon the skeletons outnumbered the goatmen. They were pressed and surrounded by all sides. The goatmen tried one final charge in an attempt to break out of the encirclement but failed utterly. All that remained of an army of goatmen were their corpses and the skeletons standing idly. Once the fighting had ceased, Kari could only look at the skeletons. All looked fearsome in their battle gear and seemed to lust for more blood to be spilled. Suddenly, all of them crumbled into dust and the golems disappeared in a burst of fire. Kari spun around and saw Marko with his arm raised and a fist formed.
"I dislike having an undead army marching under my banner," he said, "However, as I have no army right now, they will have to do in intense combat."
"Why didn't you raise skeleton warriors at the battle last night?" Kari asked, her voice shaky.
"Because it wasn't necessary," Marko answered, "The Rogues dislike the undead, and I didn't want to alienate them."
"So you only called upon your undead army because there aren't any Rogues around."
"I know how you Mage Slayers feel about Necromancers. However, you have to understand. I am not really a Necromancer. I have their skills, but those are things I learned over the years. I did not start out as a Necromancer."
"So what were you?"
"A paladin. I was a knight of the Hand of Zakarum."
End of Chapter 1
Z98
Chapter 1: The Rogue Monastery
The man was walking through the forest on his way to the Rogue Monastery. Suddenly he heard the sound of battle and drew his sword. He quickly approached the battlefield and peered out from behind the trees. Dozens of goatmen were attacking an assassin from all sides. The clearing was covered with the body of dead goatmen but more and more poured out. The assassin moved quickly and gracefully, slashing through and cutting down any goatman that got close to her. Suddenly two magic arrows struck her from behind and she tripped. She quickly got back onto her feet and killed two more approaching her, but another arrow struck her. The man quickly located the archers. He also had a bow and raised it. He took aim and fired three arrows of mana and killed the archers. The other goatmen looked at him in surprise and this gave the assassin enough time to strike down several more. The man shouldered his bow and charged out with his sword. He moved like lightning, severing several heads in one clean swing. Several other goatmen approached him nervously, not daring to attack. He took the opportunity and white light blazed from his hand, incinerating the goatmen that stood before him. The assassin finished off a few more before the others all retreated. She started to chase but the man stepped to her side and grabbed her arm, stopping her.
"They have an ambush prepared," he said, "I don't think even you would survive."
She shook off his hand and glared at him. The man simply turned away and started walking again. He wiped his sword on some leaves and sheathed it.
"I suggest you clean your weapons as well," he said, "The blood of goatmen can corrode even the strongest steel, and I doubt your weapons are that fine. I'm sure you know that, however."
The assassin gave him a curious look this time and wiped the blood off of her Katars with some large leaves. The man left the clearing and continued on his way towards the monastery. He wasn't surprised to hear the assassin following him, though she was doing a rather good job staying quiet. He smiled to himself. If the assassin wanted to follow him, he might as well give her some challenge. He broke out into a run and dashed through the forest. The assassin kept up with him, though she stayed back. After thirty minutes of running, the two arrived at the monastery, though the assassin still hung back. The man walked out of the forest to let the Rogues on guard see who it was. The doors opened and Falvie appeared.
"It has been a long time," she said.
"Indeed. Though I only passed through a few weeks ago," he replied with a grin.
She nodded.
"There's an assassin following me. She might want to come in too."
"Attracting more women?" she asked with a smile.
"I intervened in a little skirmish she had with some goatmen," the man answered.
"Goatmen," Falvie said with a sneer, "We had hoped that such things would disappear with the destruction of the Prime Evils."
"Unfortunately the Worldstone was also destroyed," the man reminded her, "but don't worry. I'm sure they won't be such a great threat to you and your sisters."
Falvie smiled and nodded at the man as he walked in. The assassin also came out of the forest and Falvie waited for her to go in before closing the door. Dozens of Rogues were in the monastery, glancing at the man and the assassin. Suddenly Kashya appeared and greeted the man.
"My friend," she said, "I had thought perhaps you had fallen prey to the many demons outside."
"Hardly," the man replied, "It is they who fell prey to me."
"Who is the assassin with you?" Kashya asked.
"You might ask her yourself. She didn't give me a name."
A few other Rogues had appeared and greeted the man. The assassin wasn't exactly what to make of all this. Just then she sensed a mage behind her. She turned around and found an old woman standing behind her.
"I am Akara, High Priestess of the Sisterhood," she said, "What brings you to our monastery?"
"Him," the assassin motioned, "I was attacked by goatmen and he helped me. Who is he?"
"You may not have heard of his real name," said Akara, "but you might know him as the Hand of Light."
The assassin gasped. The man that had saved him was the man that had slain the three Prime Evils, as well as the Lesser Evils.
"He is the Hand of Light?" she said in wonder, "but why is he here?"
"He does not tell us why he comes or goes," said Akara, "though I hear he has traveled around a lot. He appeared by a portal several weeks ago and went into the wilderness, for reason that none of us know. But it is good to see that he survived."
The assassin nodded. "Perhaps I should thank him."
"That is the least you could do," said Akara, "Do you wish me to introduce the two of you?"
"No thank you. I will be fine by myself."
"As you wish child."
Akara seemed to disappear and the assassin approached the man. The legendary Hand of Light, the man that had the confidence and support of the Archangel Tyrael. The man had gone down to Hell and killed Diablo, defeated the corrupted council of the Zakarum and slew Mephisto, and finally confronted Baal in the Worldstone Chamber and defeated Baal as well as his clone. His acts were told all across the land and he was a hero to all people who walked in the light. The assassin wasn't sure what twist of fate brought her to him, but she would not let the chance to get to know him slip away. The man saw him coming and excused himself from the group of Rogues. They saw her as well and all had an amused look on their faces.
"Uh, thanks," the assassin stuttered out.
"You're welcome," the man replied, "So what were you doing out in that forest?"
"I was doing what any assassin would do in a time like this. Fighting the minions of Hell."
"Hmm. Well, that is certainly what you ended up doing. What is your name?"
"I am Kari."
"The name is Marko."
Kari had not expected him to actually tell her his name and didn't know what to say.
"Nice to meet you," he said and extended his hand.
Kari took it and the two shook.
"Are you planning to stay the night?" Marko asked, "At the very least you would need to get your equipment repaired."
Kari nodded. "I will be staying overnight. I'm leaving tomorrow for Lut Gholein."
"What an interesting coincidence. I am also traveling to Lut Gholein. Care to join me?"
Kari was getting suspicious. This man was perhaps the most famous in the world and he was offering her the chance to travel with him? Did he have ulterior motives? Well, she'd have to figure that out soon.
"I will tell you tomorrow," she said.
"Fair enough. Kashya! Is Charsi still in shop?"
"She should be," Kashya answered.
"Thanks."
Marko turned and walked deeper into the monastery. Kari quickly followed him. He was right, her weapons could use a little work. She soon found herself inside a large workshop and saw a woman pounding on a strip of metal with a large hammer. There were several other women working there too. Marko walked over to her with Kari behind him.
"Hey Charsi."
The woman looked up and smiled when she saw Marko.
"Marko! Long time no see."
He put his bow in front of her.
"Can you finish looking over and repairing this by tomorrow morning?" he asked.
"Sure. Shouldn't be too bad."
"Thanks."
"Who's she?" Charsi asked.
"Her name's Kari," Marko spoke before Kari could open her mouth, "She'll also need you to look over her Katars and have them ready by tomorrow."
"Okay. Just leave your weapons here for tonight."
Kari reluctantly handed over her Katars. The two had seen her through thick and thin and she held them very dear.
"I'll take good care of them," Charsi assured her, as if she could read her thoughts.
Kari nodded.
"I'll see you tomorrow," Marko said before turning and taking his leave.
Kari was right behind him. Marko stopped one of the Rogues and asked her a question but Kari didn't hear what they said. He simply nodded and thanked her.
"There are only two spare rooms in the west wing," he said, "Warriv's men have taken up most of the room."
"Warriv?"
"He's a merchant. I travel with him a lot. Besides, that's the only caravan that's going to Lut Gholein so I'll have to go with him."
"And he's leaving tomorrow?"
"Yes."
"So I'll have to go with you."
Marko sighed. "I can understand why you don't trust me, but I don't hold anything against you for it. These are dangerous times. However, I'm sure Warriv will be glad to take on another warrior. He'll need plenty of protection once we enter the Aranoch Desert. It was still a nasty place the last time I traveled through it."
Marko led them through the halls and they soon were in front of two doors.
"Take your pick," he said.
Kari picked the left room. Marko walked into the right room and took off his armor. He leaned his sword against the wall and stretched out. The blade of his weapon never needed sharpening and could never be destroyed. He had made that weapon himself using his magic and it was a powerful sword. It was most likely unique as well. His armor was completely black and fit him nicely. It wasn't bulky and offered great protection against any weapon. The black cloak he wore over his armor was also useful. It absorbed magical spells and had saved him several times before. The armor retracted into a cast-like structure and he took it off. He then wrapped it in his cloak. He took a bath and changed into a fresh set of clothes that he had brought with him. The old ones he washed and hung up outside to dry. Hopefully they would be ready tomorrow or he'd have to use magic to dry them. It didn't cause any problems but was a waste of energy. After that he headed down to the dining hall. Many Rogues had heard that he had returned and were waiting in the dining hall for him. After he had killed Blood Raven and Andariel they felt they owed a debt to him. He tried to downplay it but it didn't work so he just accepted it. Kari was already eating and talking with many of the Rogues. He took a seat at the opposite end of the table and began a conversation with two Rogues and one of the caravan guards.
"What is he like?" Kari asked Falvie.
"He's an honorable man," she answered, "I have known far worse in my lifetime."
"He's also rather handsome," another added.
"Has he ever rescued other women?"
"Not that I know of," Falvie answered, "You are the first that we know of. And he's never asked a woman if she would like to accompany him on his journey. When one of us asked if we may come with him he said that the journey was far too dangerous, that he barely makes it out alive. Who can argue with that?"
Kari nodded. She had figured that he wasn't trying to harm her. Maybe he really did want to get to know her. But he did save her. That caused an interesting twist. She popped another piece of meat into her mouth and chewed it thoughtfully.
"So are you going to accept his offer?" a Rogue asked her.
"Probably," Kari answered, "I mean, we'll probably be traveling on the same caravan anyways."
"I must say, you are rather lucky," Falvie said, "Getting saved by Marko and then getting asked to accompany him."
"Well, he is an interesting man. I guess I'd like to get to know him."
"Alarm! Goatmen are attacking the monastery!"
All of the Rogues jumped out of their chairs and ran for the armory. Kari pushed her way through the crowd for her room. Her armor was in it and she would need them if she was going to fight. She ran into her room and slipped on her armor and ran down to the workshop. Charsi had taken out a large battleaxe and when she saw Kari she threw her the Katars. Kari strapped them on and ran out to the monastery grounds and up to where the archers were firing. Goatmen were running out of the forest and charging the wall. The Rogues had slaughtered many of the goatmen but more were pouring through. Some soon reached the monastery walls. A large battering ram was brought up, though the Rogues picked off several of the carriers. Others took their places and they were soon ramming the doors. Kari ran down from the towers and headed towards the door. Many Rogues were trying to hold the door back but the battering ram was too powerful. It drove open the door and goatmen poured through. The Rogues fell back and fought with swords. Charsi leaped into the battle, swinging her axe about and cleaving goatmen in half. The door was now wide open and more goatmen were pouring through. Kari joined the battle with several of the caravan guards behind her and cut down several other goatmen. More quickly piled through and attacked, driving the defenders back. Charsi took an arrow in the side and another Rogue carried her away, her battleaxe dropping. Kari looked around her. Dozens of Rogues had come to join the battle but Marko was still missing. She suddenly felt a massive surge in magical energies and the front lines of the goatmen exploded. Their organs and blood splattered all over the grounds. More rushed through but they met the same fate as their comrades. Marko suddenly appeared in a flash of blue light. He charged with his sword and sent any goatman that got into his way flying, if he did not outright slice them into pieces. Their body parts flew as Marko cut his way through their ranks. He waved his hand and a few dozen more goatmen exploded. Kari was slightly speechless at what Marko was doing. He waved his hand again and more goatmen exploded. Now all of the goatmen were retreating from the onslaught. Marko unleashed a massive firestorm that wiped out half of the retreating goatmen. He then set off a chain nova spell which jumped from one goatman to another, frying them to a crisp. Within a few minutes a quiet had settled. Marko leaned on his sword for support, exhausted. Kari ran over to him.
"You okay?" she asked.
"Very tired," he answered, "Very very tired."
"Let's get you back inside," she said and let him drape his shoulder over her neck.
"No," he said, "Get me to wherever they're putting the wounded. My work isn't finished yet."
"Don't be ridiculous! You did plenty! You repulsed the attack!"
"Get me to the infirmary!" he said firmly.
Kari considered trying to talk him out of it again but saw that it would do no good. She stopped one of the Rogues.
"Where are the wounded being moved?" she asked.
"Into the dining hall," the Rogue answered before running off.
Kari helped Marko into the dining hall and saw dozens of injured Rogues resting on tables and chairs. Akara was attending to them and doing her best.
"Get me to Charsi," Marko commanded.
Kari led Marko to where Charsi was lying. The spear had been removed and two Rogues were cleaning her wound. Marko waved them off and they reluctantly moved aside for him. They remained and watched curiously as he sat down next to her. He raised his hand over the wound and both his hand and the wound started to glow a soft blue. A few seconds later the wound closed and was healed. The two Rogues gasped.
"Get me to the other wounded," he ordered.
Kari and the two Rogues supported him as he worked from one injured to another, healing them. Akara soon joined them. She had also been healing others but could not do anything about the ones that had suffered serious injures. She took care of the ones with light wounds while Marko healed the ones that would most likely die from their wounds. When he was finished, he collapsed into a chair and would have fallen off had Kari not caught him.
"You okay?" she asked again.
"Just tired. I need to get some sleep."
She and two other Rogues carried him back to his room. He suddenly pushed a button on his armor and it retracted. The two Rogues helped him out of his armor and he fell onto the bed and was asleep in seconds.
"He is a greater man than he takes credit for," one of the Rogues said when they were out of his room.
"He is," Kari agreed, "but why did he invite me to travel with him?"
"Sometimes great men make choices that are lacking in reason when others think of them," the other Rogue said, "Who knows? But if you do travel with him, the two of you will probably encounter great challenges and adventure."
"I'm a mage-slayer," Kari said, "I don't even know what I'm supposed to do anymore. The world is so full of demons and monsters that it all seems hopeless."
"Never lose hope, my child."
The two Rogues bowed and left as Akara appeared.
"You saw how Marko fought. He fights with his heart, not just with magic and swords. Learn to do that, and hope will never fade from you."
Kari nodded. "Thank you Akara. I had better get some sleep. The caravan is leaving tomorrow."
"Hardly. After that attack, they're probably going to stay put for another week."
"Oh. Well, that'll probably change Marko's plans. If he wakes before me, tell him I plan on going with him wherever he goes."
Kari went back into her room and took off her armor. She put them to one side of her room and went to sleep. She would need all the rest she could get before she set out with Marko.
Kari looked around her. Everything was shrouded in absolute darkness. She was wearing a beautiful full-body armor and had twin Katars strapped on her arms. Both Katars were finer than any she had ever seen before and they brimmed with power. Suddenly doors opened and light poured into the chamber. She shielded her eyes from the light until they had adjusted. She walked into the light and came out on a massive plaza. She was standing on a massive road paved of pure white limestone that led to a massive arch at the center of the plaza. The arch was made of a beauty purple-bluish crystal and had four feet. At the top, where the four feet intersected, a sphere of absolute light composed of fire and ice seemed to gaze down upon all that surrounded it. Under the arch, a large blue crystal in the shape of a pyramid stood. The entire thing was massive, yet it only covered a small part of the plaza. She then realized that there were other beings standing on the side of the road where she was. Archangels, in all their splendor and magnificence, stood side by side on both sides of the road. Kari started walking down the road. All of the Archangels seemed to be looking at her, studying her, measuring her with their hidden eyes. She tried to ignore their probing looks and instead concentrated on her surroundings. The plaza was floating above what seemed to be a fortress composed of white crystals. Surrounding the fortress was a massive city, larger than all of the great cities in the world combined. It must have stretched for miles and miles before ending at tall white stone walls. The walls sparkled from reflected light and were so high Kari could see them clearly from where she stood, towering over the outskirts of the city yet no shadow touched it. A road led to the palace straight through the city to the wall and a large gate stood. The gate was wrought out of a metal far stronger than any that mortals could make and would stop any that tried to break into the city itself. Kari then turned her attention to what was in front of her. She had almost reached the massive arch. There an angel moved forward with a pillow. Kari took off her Katars and placed them on the pillow and the angel took them away. Then, an Archangel appeared. Kari gasped as she recognized the Archangel. Tyrael, one of the most powerful Archangels of the High Heaven. He presented her with a beautiful sword and she took it. The blade was as tall as she was from her knees up. It had a large blue gem embedded on the hilt and there were arcane carvings on the blade of the sword as well.
"Archangel Kailua," Tyrael suddenly said, his words carried across the plaza, "Are you ready to face the Master of Darkness?"
Kari was so stunned that at first she didn't speak.
Suddenly, her eyes snapped open. Sweat ran down her forehead. She did not know what her dream was about but she was sure that it was important. She got up and washed her face in the basin left in her room. Her armor and weapons were gone but she didn't feel worried. If the Rogues or Marko wanted to harm her, they would have already done so. She walked down to the dining hall and found Marko already seated by Falvie. She waved for Kari to join them and Marko caught sight of her. Kari walked over and sat down next to Marko.
"Did you rest well," Falvie asked.
"Well enough."
"Thanks for helping us last night," Falvie said.
"It wasn't much. Marko was the one here that dispersed them. What was that spell you used?"
"Apocalypse."
Kari gasped but Falvie and several other Rogues just smiled.
"I thought it was impossible for any mage to learn how to use that spell without scrolls," Kari finally managed to say.
"None of those mages were as powerful as me. Believe me, I've had to become that powerful. After facing Mephisto, Diablo, and Baal, if I hadn't learned how to control that much magic I would be dead."
"And the world is glad that you have become so powerful," said Falvie, "You are the slayer of the three Prime Evils."
Marko grunted. "Warriv won't be leaving for another week so I have some time to take care of unfinished business. Kari, want to come with me into the forest?"
Kari was taken by surprise by the offer but nodded. Marko finished eating and went up to his room. When Kari went back to hers, he was already in his armor. The black metal showed not a slightest hint that it had been in battle the day before. Marko's hood was up and he was leaning against the wall. Kari went into her room and found her armor and Katars in her room. They were also clean. She put them on and walked out into the garden with Marko. The two stepped on a waypoint and they were teleported into a forest.
"Where are we?" Kari asked.
"We're pretty close to a large encampment of goatmen," Marko answered, "I believe they are Moon Clan. They're the ones that attacked you and the monastery."
"So why are we here?" Kari asked nervously.
"We're going to take out their encampment."
Kari looked at the back of Marko's head and started to wonder whether it was empty or not.
"After I killed Andariel and cleared out all of the demons and monsters in the monastery the Rogues abandoned their old camp and moved back in. However, a large army of goatmen moved into the camp and took it over."
"And what can two people do against an army of goatmen?" she asked.
"Well, it won't exactly be just the two of us," Marko confessed.
"What? You have a hidden army out here?"
"Uh, more or less, yes."
Kari gave him a confused look but Marko ignored it. He stood up and waved his hand. Suddenly, a dozen Fire Golems appeared out of thing air. Kari gasped and looked at the massive creatures.
"As I said, we aren't exactly alone."
"You're a Necromancer!" Kari stuttered out.
"Not really. Even though I can raise dead demons and skeletons and such, I've found that those skills are pretty much useless. However, raising golems is useful."
"But, how did you learn their magic?"
"I have my ways. Come on. The goatmen probably already spotted all these golems. Let's give them nasty surprise."
Kari snapped out of it and followed Marko. The golems followed them and Marko ordered them to break down the walls of the encampment. They used their hands to set fire to the wooden walls and soon much of the enemy encampment was in flames. Goatmen charged out and attacked the golems. Marko and Kari were immediately in the middle of the battle, striking down goatman after goatman. They killed more and more goatmen, with the golems supporting them and burning any goatman they touched. The fighting swung back and forth as the two sides fought for the remains of the camp. Kari didn't understand why the goatmen were so desperate to take back ruins but she kept on fighting. Three goatmen tried to team up on her but she sliced one into five pieces quickly while she beheaded the other two. A golem grabbed a charging goatman by its horns and smashed its face into pieces. It then burned right through the armor and skin of another and incinerated its heart. The other golems fought in similar fashion. Kari suddenly saw skeletons appearing from the corpses of the dead goatmen. They were wearing battle armor and all carried a shield and some sort of melee weapon. They charged and crashed into the ranks of the goatmen, smashing it with every skirmish. Skeleton mages were also being raised, and they quickly destroyed several enemy squadrons with their magic. Kari saw one Ice Mage freeze five goatmen and two skeleton warriors charge in and smash them to pieces. The two armies clashed and soon the skeletons outnumbered the goatmen. They were pressed and surrounded by all sides. The goatmen tried one final charge in an attempt to break out of the encirclement but failed utterly. All that remained of an army of goatmen were their corpses and the skeletons standing idly. Once the fighting had ceased, Kari could only look at the skeletons. All looked fearsome in their battle gear and seemed to lust for more blood to be spilled. Suddenly, all of them crumbled into dust and the golems disappeared in a burst of fire. Kari spun around and saw Marko with his arm raised and a fist formed.
"I dislike having an undead army marching under my banner," he said, "However, as I have no army right now, they will have to do in intense combat."
"Why didn't you raise skeleton warriors at the battle last night?" Kari asked, her voice shaky.
"Because it wasn't necessary," Marko answered, "The Rogues dislike the undead, and I didn't want to alienate them."
"So you only called upon your undead army because there aren't any Rogues around."
"I know how you Mage Slayers feel about Necromancers. However, you have to understand. I am not really a Necromancer. I have their skills, but those are things I learned over the years. I did not start out as a Necromancer."
"So what were you?"
"A paladin. I was a knight of the Hand of Zakarum."
End of Chapter 1
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