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Dragonborn and Vanadis – Chapter 10
"So these are the Navarre Knights…"
Fernis thought as he laid his eyes on the opposing force from the distance. He could tell that they were more powerful than the armies that fought against in this world; he could feel an aura of superiority over the enemy knights.
In the morning, the Silver Meteor Army received reports of the Navarre Knights approaching the camp. Ellen, Lim, Tigre, Hughes and Fenris were discussing on how to deal with the new threat.
From what Fenris learned in the meeting, the knights were the most elite of Brune's forces. What interested him more was the leader of the Navarre Knights, the Black Knight Roland. Hughes and Tigre spoke that he never lost a battle, his exploits were one of legends and also wield Brune's greatest treasure, Durandal. A part of Fenris wanted to fight such a powerful warrior, but he knew better.
Attempts to negotiate a peace treaty with the Navarre Knights ended up in failure; the knights instead made a counter-proposal that they Silver Meteor Army surrender to them. Seeing that they had little choice, Ellen order the army to prepare for battle.
It was now cloudy afternoon when the Silver Meteor Army met to confront the Navarre Knights at the Orange Plains, the former numbered about 6,000 men and the former was about 5,000 knights.
The Silver Meteor Army was divided in three rectangular formations; the center, vanguard and rear guard. The Navarre Knights was an in spear rectangular formation designed to pierce though defensive formations.
Ellen and Lim was leading the center formation while Tigre and Hughes was leading the vanguard formation. Fenris was allocated to the vanguard to provide support, where his abilities would be a force multiplier.
He kept a close eye a figure at the distance in front of enemy force which drew something from his back, which he assumed was Roland, the leader. He was correct when he heard a cry that originated from the Navarre Knights' position.
"Gods in the sky, who watches over the land of Brune! Bear witness to our battle! Follow my blade!"
"So it begins…" Fenris grimly
With that, the entire enemy force began their charge at the vanguard of the Silver Meteor Army. The force of the knights was to be reckoned with as they crushed the defensive lines with ease. The most shocking for Fenris was knight of large build wearing black armor, who swung a large sword with one hand with ease and was larger than an ordinary greatsword.
He cut through the soldiers like they were nothing despite their armor and shields. Blood was spilled before the knight's path and the ground beneath him was littered with decimated corpses and body parts.
"His speed matches to my own, but his strength surpasses mine. I have no choice…"
Fenris charged into the fray on his horse as Roland continue to cut through his enemies with no difficulty. No matter if the soldiers stood their ground or flee, Roland nevertheless make short work on them.
Little did Fenris know that Ellen noticed the carnage before her and decided to put Lim in charge of the formation while she engage with Roland herself.
"Who is that… His armor…!"
"Is made of dragon scales?! I can't possibly be…!"
"Its… the Demon himself!"
A group from the Navarre Knights noticed Fenris as he charged towards Roland's position. Fenris shouted as he heard the knights and raised his right hand as he channeled his spell. He was now getting agitated of being called a demon despite his abilities made him appear as one.
"I am not a demon! I am Dragonborn!"
He fired multiple bolts of Chain Lightning from his hand and it struck the knights, electrocuting them to death. The bolts arc to other knights that were nearby and they too suffered the same fight. After the display of power, Fenris keep on moving forward as he drew his katana.
"What…"
Roland turned and saw his fellow knights being struck by bolts of lightning and feel to the ground dead smoking. It was then he noticed Fenris charging at him; bewildered by his dragonscale armor. Nevertheless, he swung his sword at his foe, who in turn blocked it with his katana.
Much to his surprise, Fenris's weapon didn't shatter to pieces as he thought it would. Fenris then made a shout, seeing that Roland was a powerful foe and shouldn't be taken lightly and require everything he has to defeat him.
"ZUN HAAL VIIK!"
Fenris hoped that Disarm would give him the advantage against Roland by depriving him of his sword. However, Fenris was shocked as the shout had no effect on Roland.
He then felt his instinct warn him of Roland's weapon and when he glanced at it, he saw that it wasn't an ordinary weapon; almost as mysterious as the Dragon Tools.
'Can that sword actually…'
Fenris thought of what just happened, but quickly broke away from it as Roland made another swing at him. He quickly countered and retaliated with his swings, which Roland block with his reflexes. Fenris soon realize that his katana was not inflicting Chaos Damage at Roland. He then unleashed Flames on his foe as a test and as he feared, witnessed the flames die before it touches Roland's sword.
'It seems it can negate both my shouts and magic… Never seen such a weapon before…'
The two ended up in a blade lock as they looked at each other eyes while the battle rages around them. Both sides watch as their respective champions were literally face-to-face with each other.
The Navarre Knights were not afraid of Fenris regardless of the rumors of his abilities, but knew better than to interfere in Roland's fight.
To them, who is better than to slay the Demon was the Black Knight himself.
"Your weapon, armor and magic… You are the one from the rumors that was all over Brune?"
"Indeed. You are brave not flinch in my presence. I can see that your sword is truly one of a kind… To be able to protect you from my powers …"
They engaged once again in a clash of swords before they are in another blade lock. The two foes were surprised at each other skills as they can't seem to get the edge over the other. The Navarre Knights were in shock that Fenris was holding his own with little difficulty against Roland despite the difference in body build.
"What is your name? I have never fought against someone like yourself. I see with my eyes that you are just an exceptional warrior wielding magic, not a demon of destruction like the rumors portray you."
"Finally… I am getting tired of being called a demon despite who I am. My name is Fenris and if I am to be called through a title, "Dragonborn" will suffice."
"Roland of the Navarre Knights. Bold of you to see yourself a dragon…"
It was then Ellen arrived and was closing distance at Fenris. Roland quickly reacted by forcing back Fenris and counter Ellen's swing with his own.
He could feel the force of the clash emitted as Roland and Ellen were in a blade lock of their own. Despite her status as a Vanadis, Ellen felt the backlash on her right arm and noticed that Arifar had no effect on his sword.
"So another before me withstood my sword, but a delicate girl like you couldn't…"
He was interrupted when Fenris began to attack once more, which Ellen soon joined in. Despite their efforts, Roland has proven to be more than a challenge as the two struggled to leave a meaningful blow on him and protect themselves at the same time.
Despite knowing it was futile, Fenris unleashed his destruction spells hoping to at least distract Roland. Much to Ellen's shock, she witnesses the spells being ineffective when Roland blocked them with his sword; like he was immune to magic.
It was then that Roland delivered a quick but powerful swing on the two. Ellen jumped away from the attack just as it severed the neck of her horse. Fenris chose block the attack, which knocked him off his horse but in turn spared its life. Despite the danger, the horse bravely stood its ground with its rider.
Ellen landed on her feet while Fenris was brought to the ground, but quickly got back on his own feet. They looked at Roland who was still on horseback when Ellen spoke after Arifar gave her a faint wind, like it was warning her.
Ellen felt the sword that Roland wielded has something to do with Arifar and Fenris's magic being ineffective.
"That sword, what is it made off?"
"Strange to worry about in the middle of a fight, but your weapons were the first to be not broken by Durandal. You two, what are your blades made off?"
Ellen and Fenris give their respective answers.
"I don't know. I inherited it from someone I never met before."
"I personally crafted my own weapons, but will not speak of the materials I used."
"As for me, I don't know what this blade is made of. I received this blade from His Majesty to defend Brune, so that is enough for me."
"Vanadis-sama!"
"Stop you fools!"
A number of Zhcted cavalry charged at Roland to Ellen's defense. Despite her and Fenris's warning not to engage, the men nevertheless kept moving and were cut down with ease by Roland; their bloodied bodies dropping to the ground before they could touch the knight.
Ellen and Fenris were quickly thinking about their situation. Fenris saw that Durandal would protect Roland from his spells, so the only option was martial skill yet the knight was physically stronger than him. Ellen however thought of using her Dragon Arts, but it would be too much to use it on a single human, despite the overwhelming display of strength see has witnessed.
"Vanadis… You are the commander of Zhcted?"
"Eleonora Viltaria. One of the seven Vanadises."
"I am Roland, Captain of the Navarre Knights. I don't know the reason why you and Fenris are here, but I cannot allow you two to set foot in His Majesty's lands."
Roland delivered a swing onto Ellen to strike her down before she could react, but Fenris quickly moved in front of her and blocked it. It was then with his left hand, drew his other katana and swung it at Roland, who quickly countered the blow.
"Fenris!"
"Stay back Ellen!"
He and Roland continue clash with their weapons and despite on horseback, Roland can't seem to find an opening on Fenris. The knight was surprised of his foe using dual swords with incredible skill in deflecting his attacks and attempted counters, despite the fact he had the advantage of being on horseback.
But a warrior like Fenris even has limits. The constant barrage of slashes is starting to take a toll on his stamina for he never fought a warrior at Roland's level. Ellen watches as Fenris is being pushed to the defensive; his body slowly becoming weary by the knights powerful yet cautious assault.
Just as Ellen decided to join in the fight to assist Fenris, she noticed an archer from a distance, rode in on horseback with a nocked bow. Fenris noticed him as well with the corner of his eye.
"Tigre…!"
Both shouted as recognize the rider. Roland chose to disengage from Fenris and rode to confront Tigre. To the two, Tigre remarkably dodged Roland's swing by bending his body to the side, but the posture caused him to miss his shot.
Seeing it was their chance, Fenris quickly got on his horse while Tigre reached his arm out for Ellen to grabbed and managed to got on his horse. As they were riding however, Roland was right behind them.
Fenris was going cast his Rune Magic and hope it would affect Roland's horse despite being near Durandal when he noticed an arrow landed straight down on its head.
He was surprised of such an impossible shot, but quickly realized it was Tigre's arrow.
However, many enemy knights took over the chase which Fenris retaliated with his spells. Tigre in turn fired numerous arrows to the enemy in front of them.
"You surprise me in more ways than one Tigre… To make such a move…"
"Indeed. You saved us, Tigre. As amazing as usual..."
They stopped talking when they noticed Tigre slump forward and noticed a straight wound going from left shoulder to his right side. Ellen quickly supported him with her right arm as he grabbed the horse's strap with her left.
"Tigre!"
"No… He didn't dodge that attack back then!"
"You need to heal him Fenris!"
"I will when we get back to camp! Just keep him stable!"
Their pursuers chasing them pull out their javelins, but Fenris countered with Chain Lightning hoping to deter them from their chase. Despite taking losses, the Navarre Knights refuse to give up the chase.
The situation turned bleak when the horse that Tigre and Ellen rode fell to the ground due to a breaking its leg. Ellen recovered from the fall and rushed to aid the injured Tigre as Fenris rode towards them, got off his horse and stood towards the knights with his katana drawn.
"Take my horse Ellen! I will cover you and Tigre as long as I can!"
"You can't Fenris! You will surely…!"
As Ellen was reacting poorly to Ferris's decision, a dozen javelins were launched by the knights and were heading for them. Fenris was use a shout when a familiar figure stood before him.
"Brilliant Waves, Gather Before Me (Falvarna)!"
Before Fenris's eyes was Sofya Obertas with her Dragon Tool Zaht, which created a powerful barrier of light around her which deflected the javelins as she raised it up in the air.
"Sofy!"
"Fenris! Ellen! Hurry!"
She gestured towards a nearby horse for them to use. Ellen however first placed Tigre on Fenris's horse before he moved towards the other horse. Fenris then mounted on his horse and tended to Tigre's wounds while supporting him in the same time.
"I will thank you later."
"Yes. We'll meet again."
With that Ellen and Fenris escaped with Tigre while Sofy stayed back to hold back the Navarre Knights. They rode until they reached the rear guard, which suffered a drop of morale after learning that Tigre was severely injured. Along with heavy casualties, the Silver Meteor Army was forced to withdraw from the battle. The enemy attempted to chase after them, but were disrupted by a force of 300 cavalries and forced to stop.
Regardless, the Silver Meteor Army have suffered their first defeat and it was a crushing one. With 800 dead and twice as much wounded, they lost almost half of their fighting force. The Navarre Knights have only lost close to 70 knights; most were killed by Fenris's magic.
Yet, the survivors of the Silver Meteor Army live to fight another day…
"Will Tigre-sama be okay?"
"I doing what I can. I never thought I be pushed this much in using conventional methods."
Back at their camp after their defeat, the Silver Meteor Army was tending to their wounded and prepared for what is come later when the Navarre Knights return. Ellen were discussing her allies regarding their first encounter with the Brune knight and about Tigre's condition.
They were concerned when Ellen spoke of how Fenris's magic was ineffective against Roland and she have doubts if she could defeat him with martial skill alone.
Yet, Fenris wasn't present during the discussion. In a tent, he and Titta were tending to Tigre's injuries while Bertrand came to check on them. The former was wiping the sweat of Tigre while the latter was dressing his wounds.
While he would be treating the rest of the injured in the army, he could barely due much due to being a single man and there were over a thousand men that are wounded. As a pretense, Fenris chose to treat the most injured first, which was Tigre.
Despite a rough start previously, the two servants of Tigre came to trust Fenris and had faith he could help their master.
'I never thought I had to use my medicine bag to this extent…'
Despite his efforts, Fenris wasn't able close Tigre's wound with his restoration spells. Bystanders saw that whenever he attempts to heal Tigre, the golden glow on his hands seems to die out whenever it gets close to the wound.
Fenris and Ellen surmised that Durandal have an unknown ability to negate magical effects; like the former's Arifar and the latter's magics.
Seeing that his restoration spells were not working, he felt there was a possibility that the slash has left a temporary effect on Tigre's wound and thus untreatable with magic. He spends most of his time back at camp treating Tigre the old fashion way with Titta's assistance.
Luckily, Fenris always held a bag with him at all times as precaution if he is unable to use restoration spells. It contained a number of special salves and liquids to deal with minor wounds. However, his greatest tool was the White Phial; attuned to healing and helped him many time before and will help Tigre in this time of need.
Fenris watches as Titta began to pray for Tigre's full recovery and Bertrand look on with a sad expression when he felt movement from outside the tent.
"Is Tigre inside?"
"Ellen?"
He and Bertrand left the tent saw it was indeed Ellen outside with a concerned expression. Arifar on her waist greeted Fenris with a faint breeze.
"Fenris, how is Tigre doing?"
"He is stabilized and currently asleep. It will take some time for my treatment to take full effect."
"I am glad. You're done your part, so you are free to go Fenris."
Fenris then turned to elderly man. "Will that be okay Bertrand?"
"Yes, Tigre should be fine thanks to you."
Giving a nod to the two, Fenris left as he overheard Ellen wishing to see Tigre.
'Facing Roland head-on with a bow would be seen as foolish Tigre… But, you did help me and Ellen out with out situation.'
Fenris recalled the moment when Tigre rode in when he and Ellen struggled with Roland. He clenches his hands in anger of seeing Tigre in such an injured state.
'I never thought I would have to end like this… I should have brought in Odahviing… I should have stopped time…' Fenris thought in an agitated tone.
Fenris has fought against many enemies before in his lifetime, but never an enemy of Roland's caliber. He fought against enemies who were physically stronger than he was, but emerge victorious with the usage of his spells and shouts.
It was the first time in his life that he was fighting a foe who was not only surpass him in strength, but is also immune to his powers.
He felt his anger build-up, but he realized his mistake and quickly took a meditative stance where he was sitting. Fenris took deep breathes as he began to flush away the dark emotion from his mind.
"Calm down Fenris… Remember what the Greybeards thought you…" He whispered out as he began to calm down from his negative thoughts. Just as he felt the feeling of serenity once more, opened his eyes and surprised of who he saw.
"Sofy." When she chose to hold back the pursuing knights, Fenris was concerned since she didn't seem to be a fighter like Ellen. But he knew that the Vanadises are not be estimated despite their appearances, so he had faith that she will be able to escape as well; the faith was well placed.
"Oh sorry Fenris. I was just wondering what you were doing."
Fenris got himself up from the ground as he looked at Sofy. He saw Zaht give a gentle flash of light, like it was pleased to be near him once more.
"I was angry of how the battle with the Navarre Knights and Roland ended, so I took a quick mediation to ease my mind. I know better than to let a defeat could my thoughts.
"Good to hear that. So how to Tigre's condition?"
"He will live, but he is currently asleep and no shape to fight. Only time will tell if he will open his eyes."
"He will open his eyes. It not like him to die in such a place."
Fenris and Sofy turned around to see it was Ellen. "Until then, I will be fighting Roland."
"You are not fighting him alone. Even without my magic, I am still hold my own against him."
"I will also assist you."
Ellen had a surprised look on her face. She knew that Fenris would assist her against Roland regardless, but she didn't expect Sofy to help as well.
Fernis watches as the two Vanadises spoke of the matter with Roland; with Ellen accepting Sofy's assistance and he nodded his head in approval of her decision to use her Dragon Arts.
'When lives are at stake, sometime bending the rules would benefit all.'
Fenris and Ellen parted from Sofy and made their way to the tent where they will diverse their strategy for their next encounter with the Navarre Knights.
"What is the state of Lord Tigrevurmud?"
"He will live Lim, but he still bedridden."
When the Fenris and Ellen arrived at the tent, they saw Lim, Augre and a middle-aged man with gray hair and a beard looking through a map under a lamp. Lim asked about Tigre's condition, which he gave the usual answer before he gazes at the man he never seen before. The man in turn was startled when he saw Fenris and was shocked of his dragonscale armor.
"Who is he Ellen?"
"He is Lord Massas Rodant. Tigre and Lim spoke about him before remember?"
"Ah. Greetings Lord Massas. My name is Fenris and I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
Massas however had trouble getting the right words out of his mouth after realizing who he is.
"You… You're the one at Dinant…! I've seen you…"
"So you're a survivor from Dinant. I understand the reputation I gained during that battle, but I didn't come here as an enemy, but a fellow ally."
Massas was kept a wary eye on Fenris as everyone in the tent was now explaining that Fenris is not a threat. It took some time, but Massas was able to regain his composure when they told that Fenris was under Ellen's service and is also the one who treated Tigre's injury.
Despite that, he remains cautious around Fenris. He couldn't shake the thoughts of Dinant where he witnessed many soldiers being decimated by his magic, even if they were officially enemies during that time.
Regardless, the strategy session went smoothly for everyone in the tent. Ellen recall of Tigre saying previous that it would rain, meaning that the Navarre Knights would have hindered by the mud. Along with their heavy armor, their speed would be compromised and the Silver Meteor Army would have the advantage in that aspect.
Another part of the strategy was to attempt to separate Roland from his knights and fight him while he has no support. While Ellen and Fenris were initially planned of fighting him themselves, Sofy's support would increase their odds of success.
Later on the day, it started raining as Tigre said. It was also the same time when the Silver Meteor Army began to march to battle.
While the men had a drop of morale due to the harsh weather and their previous defeat at the hands of the Navarre Knights, the drop was minimalized when Ellen provided some comforts such as additional wood for fires and Fenris vowed that he would bring a storm that would grant them victory. The men assumed that he was going to unleash a powerful barrage of destruction spells on the Navarre Knights.
They made a recent stop to rest up and get themselves warm near fires as the rain continue to pour. Fenris decided to mediate beneath a tree and closed his eyes as his ears began to hear nothing but the sound of nature; the harsh droplets of rain to the blowing wind.
However, Fenris felt something wasn't right when silence filled his ears and when he opened eyes, he beholds the void of darkness. His eyes widen as he remembers this eerie scene as he stands up on his feet...
"No… This should be possible…"
"It is… My champion…" A calm but sinister voice echoed across the void.
Before Fenris's sight was an opening in the void, which appeared a dark-coloured eyelid with multiple tentacles and eyes surrounding it. The eyelid opened and revealed a large eye with a pupil shaped as an infinity symbol.
Despite the shock of realizing who was before him, Fenris regained his composure as he kneels before the unworldly being.
"Lord Hermaeus Mora… It been a while…"
Due to his strong link to the Daedric Prince, he tends to see him in dreams whenever he closes his eyes; in meditation and sleeping. The flow of time is different between the dream and reality, for an hour in the dream is about a minute back in real life. He hasn't gotten these dreams since he arrived in this world, so he thought that his connection to Hermaeus Mora was severed.
"Yes… You have exceeded my expectations by activating the rune within the Temple of Twin Worlds.
"The Temple of… You don't mean…"
"Yes, I was watching you champion… I watched as you travelled to the ruin, fought against one of my former servants and activated the rune with your blood…"
Fenris's eyes widened when he heard his lord speak.
"Servant? Etis is one of your servants…?"
"Once… He used to appreciate my gifts, but broke ties with me long ago. From what I known, he was ambitious to gain power and longed to learn the secrets of The Voice… No doubt he envies you and your status as Dragonborn…
"What about the rune? What is your link to this world…?"
The Daedric Prince only made a dark laugh as he interrupted Fenris.
"My champion… You seek answers, yet I get nothing in return. All I can tell you now is that I desire much knowledge from this world and you are in the perfect position to obtain them for me. Grant my requests and I will answer what questions you have about this world. After all, knowledge has it price."
Fenris knew that his Daedric patron was fickle and enjoy seeing his annoyance when the answer he desire isn't granted. However, he knew that Mora rewards his servants well for loyal services and Fenris knew the danger of angering the Daedric Prince.
He bowed his head as his words was directed to the Knower of the Unknown.
"Very well my lord. I will do what you command."
"This pleases me champion… While I find you reluctant in some of my tasks, your loyalty is nevertheless unquestionable… I recently obtain a new servant who is eager to for my knowledge to achieve her ambitions. She wishes to meet you in person, but fates have yet spoken… Continue on as you were doing until then. When the fates decree it so, she will come to you and then, you will share what you have learned with me…"
Fenris tried to speak, but the void of filled with Mora's laughter as the manifestation before him slowly faded away. Soon a bright light envelops the void and blinded him.
When he opened his eyes once more, Fenris was breathing hard when he found himself back in reality; it was still raining and the men were keeping themselves warm while having some sips of alcohol.
"Fenris, are you okay?"
He turned to the right and saw Lim with a concerned look. "I saw close your eyes for a few seconds and then you woke like this. What happened?"
Fenris began to breath normally as he replied. "Nothing to be concerned about Lim. When do we move out?"
Despite not liking the reply after seeing him jolted out of his meditation, she nevertheless accepted it.
"We leave in twenty minutes. If everything goes well, we should be able to meet the enemy on schedule."
"Very well."
As she left, he didn't return back to his mediation and instead chose to sit down under the same tree as before. His mind was filled with many new questions that he wished to be answered right now.
How did Hermaeus Mora contact him again?
Who was his newest servant?
What was the history of Etis, the one he fought against before?
What was his and his lord's link to this world?
It was the next day since the march and the Silver Meteor Army was in formation once more in the Orange Plains near the river. To the south was the Navarre Knights, who were moving forward in a formation of three groups. From Massas remark, it was known as the Crescent Moon formation and it is one of Brune's most effective tactics.
The former numbered about 4,300 men while the latter numbered about 5,000 knights. Despite the Silver Meteor Army was outnumbered and reeling from the previous encounter, they had a few plans ready to even the odds with the enemy force.
Ellen and Sofy were not commanding the army and instead were preparing for the encounter with Roland. Instead Lim and Massas were the commanders while Augre was off-field to tend to the injured.
Fenris in the other hand was in the front line behind a row of spearmen equipped with heavy shields that is meant to withstand a full-on charge.
But that charge didn't happen for the knights rode close the defensive line and began to threw their javelins. While most struck the heavy shields, some few over them and struck a few soldiers that were unlucky to be in their path.
"So that is how their formation works…"
Fenris watches as the knights from the first group rode away and Lim was ordering the troops not to expose themselves and not to give chase. The formation involves disorganizing the enemy's formation and then charge at a possible opening to inflict maximum damage.
It was then Lim give the order to retreat just as the second group of knights began to make their attack. They moved back the river and returned back to their defensive formation, but the Navarre Knights charged forward with their third group lead by Roland himself.
The report arrived to the army, which caused concern and fear to spread among the men for the Black Knight has taken the field. It all vanished when Ellen and Sofy arrived on horseback to give them ease.
Massas give them a salute as he spoke. "I am sorry for putting you in this, but please handle them."
"Leave them to us. I hope Fenris could do as he promised."
It was then a report was delivered about the impending attack to the front from the enemy. Just as they were preparing to meet the enemy, they heard a booming shout that echoed across the army.
"STRUN BAH QO!"
The shout belongs to Fenris. The men around him witnessed as the warrior shouted to the sky and soon, the Silver Meteor Army and the Navarre Knights witnessed the impossible.
The sky itself began to be covered with a massive thunderstorm, bringing down a heavy downpour of rain upon both armies. The enemy knights were shocked of the sudden storm as the ground began to turn muddy; hindering their mobility. Then lightning bolts began to strike periodically upon them as well; decimated their numbers and cause panic for no one knows if they are next or not.
For Fenris have unleashed the power of Storm Call upon them.
"This is not what I was expecting!"
"He literally brought forth a storm! Unbelievable!"
"Fenris is granting us our victory as he promised!"
The men of the Silver Meteor Army were cheering for Fenris, but the Navarre Knights were instead in disarray for they were a few meters away from the defensive line before the storm came.
"Where in the gods did this storm came from!?"
"I can't move! The mud!"
"The Demon! He must have…. Aghhhhhhh!"
The knight that spoke the last statement ended up being struck by a lightning bolt and fell to the muddy ground dead; his armor smoking and becoming slag.
"Fenris… You truly brought forth blessed rain…" Ellen watches in awe as his storm turned the battlefield into a quagmire. Arifar in her hand began to show its excitement of the shout that Fenris unleashed; the sentiment was shared with Zaht in Sofy's own.
Lim and Massas were speechless of what have occurred. If Fenris could bring a storm in a middle of a clear day, then what else is he capable of.
Initially, the plan was to stack sandbags to dam the river while it was raining, causing it to overflow and make the ground muddy. The advantage was only provided to the central group, But Fenris's shout have given the rest of the army the same advantage across the battlefield.
They nevertheless moved forward to meet the enemy for they were disorientated of the outcome. Due to the mud and the weight of their armor, the knights could hardly move to safety as hundreds of arrows rained upon them and spearmen began to charge in.
In a matter of minutes, their roles now reversed. The Navarre Knights were now the ones being slaughtered as their comrades' corpses began to pile up and their blood was being spilled; only to be washed away by the rain.
"Keep moving forwarding! We have the upper hand!"
Fenris shouted out as he moved forward with the spearmen to take out the downed enemy knights. He dismounted from his horse, so he doesn't risk it getting stuck in the mud. While the effects of Storm Call wore off, it already had done its job.
"Black Knight. I would be pleased if you would allow me to be your opponent as well."
However, he heard screams of terror at a distance and witnessed a Zhcted soldier being cleaved in half while on horseback.
"Roland…"
He muttered out as he finally laid eyes on the Black Knight, who initially dismounted and left a path of death in his wake. Roland himself saw Fenris and quickly commandeer the horse and quickly charged at him.
However, Fenris was more than prepared. For Roland, he was about to get a privilege that few experienced, if an enemy could call it a privilege.
"MUL QAH DIIV!"
The Black Knight witness the Dragonborn shout out and was covered with a set of ethereal armor. Nevertheless, he charged forward and took a swing at his foe.
However, Roland saw that Fernis was more powerful than before; his strength, speed and reflexes were enhanced to new levels. The latter used his katanas to block Durandal and didn't move an inch from the hit.
They entered a sword lock like they did before in their previous encounter.
"To bring forth a storm and empower yourself with a few word! Why did you used them before!"
"The greatest burden for having incredible power to the willpower not to use it carelessly! After our first encounter, I saw you are an exception to it!"
The two continue to clash at incredible speed as many watches on from both sides.
"Where is Lord Vorn?"
Fenris was about to reply when Ellen came forth from the side and struck at Roland, who blocked with Durandal as Fernis took a jump backwards. Behind Ellen was Sofy who didn't charge in like her friend.
Their Dragon Tools acted the same way when Fenris's used Dragon Aspect previously; almost like they were eager to fight in Fenris's presence while he was encased in the ethereal armor.
Nevertheless, they all focus their attention at the task ahead, which was to defeat Roland.
"He is occupied. The Wind Princess of the Silver Flash will be your opponent. Do you mind Fenris?"
"Very well Ellen."
Fenris spoke as he took a few steps back from the two. Fenris's shout could last for a period of time based on the user's whim. He could maintain it up to a maximum of one hour, so it would impact him much if he is to wait.
Ellen with renewed strength at Roland as Fenris and Sofy kept away the knights that wanted to come to their captain's aid.
Their clash soon has a change of scenery when Ellen and Roland sped from the battlefield while continue to strike at each other. Fenris in turn got back on his horse and rode behind them with Sofy.
They stopped at an open plain, which the Vanadises and the Dragonborn stood in front of Roland to prevent him from returning back.
"Black Knight. Allow the three of us to be your opponents." Sofy spoke as they all prepared their respective weapons.
Roland's response was simple. "Come."
With that, they clash once more with increased vigor. Despite Roland's strength and speed, the three were able to block and dodge while maintaining an offensive. Ellen's horse was killed once more by Roland, but she a move that was different from before.
"Shadow Wind (Verni)!"
She jumped off from the saddle and flew into the air as the wind dances around her feet, for she used another one of her Dragon Arts.
"A petty trick!"
"It is not wise to forget about me!"
Fenris kept on his attack on Roland as Ellen joined in soon enough. The Black Knight was forced to the defensive as he had to defend against Ellen's movement which was now barely readable and Fenris's empowered swings that could match his own.
He was forced to fight on the ground when Fenris killed his horse during the clash, but continue to fight with no openings to exploit.
"Lustrous Flow, Rush Before Me (Muteirasv)!"
Sofy in the other hand, provided the opening by using her own Dragon Art, which she points Zaht at Roland and unleashed a volley of light particles. While it did no damage to the knight, he was distracted and give Ellen the opportunity to strike as she still floats in the air. Fenris knew what she was going to do and moved a few meters away of Roland.
While Ellen knew using her Dragon Arts against a human was deemed excessive, Roland was a clear exception in her eyes. Remembering what Fenris said months ago, she saw her action justifiable against such a foe just as she raises Arifar above her head.
"Cleave the Wind (Ley Admos)!"
With a swing, she unleashed the condensed wind from the tip of the sword and it moved towards Roland at high speed.
"YOL TOOR SHUL!"
Much to Ellen and Sofy's surprise, Fenris used his Fire Breath at Roland and it was angled to collide with Ellen's attack. The fire became mixed with the tempest; using the condensed air to fuel itself.
Sofy couldn't help but look at awe at Fenris. She never seen Fenris fight, so seeing him fight against Roland and hold his own was quite a sight. The way he used his power with coordination with Ellen made her see her friend's faith in Fenris was well-placed.
Roland was unfazed however and took on the combination attack head-on. The result of was explosion which pushed the earth away as he swung Durandal at the condensed fireball, which nevertheless put strain on his body and burned his skin.
'Impressive…' Ellen thought of Fenris' move when she landed back on the ground. The combination of their special attacks should be enough to bring him down.
However, Roland withstood the attack and came out with only with his hair in a mess, his skin being burned a little and his body being slightly numb.
Ellen and Sofy took a defensive stance when Roland approach, remarking that their attacks were impressive, but he will never be defeated. Fenris however chose to approach the Roland, who saw as a pretense for a duel.
Then an arrow flew towards Roland, which he deflected with ease.
Everyone turned to the direction where the arrow originated from and saw a familiar face.
"Tigre!"
Three spoke in surprise of seeing Tigre coming here despite his injury. Ellen began to scold him for coming here, but Fenris couldn't help but be impressed of Tigre's strength.
"Vanadises… Fenris…"
They turned to Roland as he spoke.
"I will let you all of this time. I have business with Tigre."
Fenris watches with the Vanadises of the discussion between Tigre and Roland. They both give their reasons for the decisions that have led them here and both are committed not to give up what they believe in.
It was then Tigre spoke of showing Roland something, which he drew his bow and everyone witness unnatural black energy encircling the arrow.
'This power… It is stronger than the last time he used it…' Fenris recalled the time he first witnessed it backing when they were fighting Zion.
However, he saw Tigre flinch like he was in pain and he feared that he may have reopened his wound. Nevertheless, the archer fired his arrow yet it was targeted at Roland.
Instead, it struck the ground to the right of the knight and created a large crater. Everyone but Tigre were shocked of the destructive power that was unleashed.
Despite Tigre's warning shot and telling Roland to retreat, the knight refuse and chose to display his full force by gripping Durandal both hands.
Ellen and Fenris noticed that Roland used only one hand to fight against them, so using both arms would make his attack more powerful than before. Fenris noticed that Tigre became drained from his first shot and became worried what could happen if he tried a second shot.
He was correct when Tigre nocked another arrow, but the strain of his body became apparent as blood seeped through his clothing and his mouth. However, the archer refused to give in and pushed his body to the limit.
'It is now or never…'
Suddenly, Tigre felt something touch his back and felt his stamina returning along with the pain on his chest vanishing. He looked to his sides and noticed Ellen and Sofy with their Dragon Tools pointed towards Roland. That would mean…
"Fenris…"
"I'm glad I am able to heal you at a time like this. What I want now is to see you die from exhaustion." Fenris was pleased that the negating effect that Durandal left on the wound has wore off since the restoration spell was now working.
"He is right. You are mine, so you can't die without my permission."
"Please don't do things that would hurt Ellen."
Seeing that Roland with a slight nod, Tigre drew his bow to the limit as Fenris let go of him seeing that the archer was a least able to stand up properly.
The Vanadises' Dragon Tools reacted to Tigre's Black Bow. Sofy was amazed of what she is witnessing, but Ellen wasn't really fazed for she done this month ago. Fenris however was more amazed seeing Tigre's arrow began to be empowered by the Arifar's and Zaht's respective elements of wind and light.
"Take your best shot!"
"I will defeat you to protect my people!"
Roland and Tigre give their respective shouts as they prepared themselves for what is to come; the former firmly stood his ground while the latter fired his arrow as it left a trail of blue and golden energy as it flew.
It was sight to behold when Roland's Durandal clashed with Tigre's empowered arrow. Despite the incredible force pushing against the knight, he was nevertheless determined to destroy the arrow and emerge the victor.
Ellen, Sofy, Tigre and Fenris watch closely as the clash between sword and arrow continues on. Then they heard a mighty roar from Roland as they saw a flash of light and the ground before them began to crack.
After the dust settled, they saw Roland was still standing with Durandal planted on the ground despite his hair is now a mess and his armor was covered with cracks.
Ellen and Sofy were shocked that the knight was able to withstand the attack while Tigre was in disbelief; believing that ultimately lost.
Fenris however quickly move towards Roland with his katanas drawn, intend to finishing off the Black Knight before he could attack once more.
"Fenris!" Ellen shouted in shock at Fenris's action, but he refused to heed as he closed in at the knight.
"…Sheath your weapons Fenris. …I admit defeat."
Everyone was surprised of what they heard and Fenris in turned stopped his dash as he cautious looked at Roland.
"You can no longer fight?"
"Yes. I can't move my arms, so I can't defeat either you or Lord Vorn at this moment."
Roland gazes at Fenris with honest eyes.
"…I surrender."
Fenris looked at the knight's eyes for a few moments before nodding. He sheathed his katanas and disperse the effect of Dragon Aspect.
"Very well. We accept your surrender."
Suddenly, he heard a thump and turned to see Tigre face first on the ground.
"Tigre!"
"Not to worry Ellen. Go now Roland and tell your knights what happen this day."
Fenris quickly moved to Tigre, got him on his back and kneel down to do a check up. From he could see, the archer has used up his remaining stamina in unleashing such a powerful attack.
Using Healing Touch on him, he relieved the archer of his fatigue as well as completely closing the wound that Roland inflicted last battle. As for Roland himself, he left the plains to report to report their surrender to the Silver Meteor Army.
As Fenris was tending to Tigre, Ellen and Sofy smiled as they watch him return back to full health. Then Fenris turned his eyes to them.
"If you two give your consent, I could ease your fatigue." While Ellen and Sofy were not injured during their battle with Roland, they were nevertheless drained, especially since they used their Dragon Arts.
The Vanadises looked at each other and then back to Fenris.
"That would be good."
"Yes. We would appreciate it."
He nodded his head as he got up and went to Ellen first, gently lifting her right hand with his own and then cover the palm with his left hand. She felt a bit embarrassed of his gesture and blushed, but soon felt a feeling of relief when Fenris once more used Healing Hands to restore her stamina.
Sofy watches as Fenris's hand glow with a golden aura, which spread around Ellen's body as she sighs in relief of its restorative effect.
Soon it was her turn and while being more composed than Ellen, she nevertheless blushed a little when Fenris did the same gesture. Nevertheless, she found her stamina being restored as the pleasant feeling began to envelop her own body.
It was soon that Tigre woke up and after a getting quick debriefing from Fenris, he and the others began to walk back to the army to report on their victory.
Unaware to the others, Ellen unconsciously touch her right hand; the same hand Fenris touched.
It was the next morning after the battle between the Silver Meteor Army and the Navarre Knights. The former only loss a few hundred of their troops, but the latter have lost a few thousand; 2,200 knights were loss to be exact. While the survivor was dissatisfied with their defeat, they nevertheless obeyed their captain's orders.
It was then both sides chose to meet for discussions. Tigre, Ellen and Massas represented the Silver Meteor Army while Roland and his second-in-command represent the Navarre Knights.
Fenris wasn't present in the meeting since he was treated the injured during the second battle. Since were only close to a hundred in the army that was wounded, he found it more feasible to treat everyone by himself.
When they came back to report of what happened, Fenris greeted them and smiled heard Roland decided to trust Tigre and went back to the capital, Nice, discuss on the matter with the king. As a sign of trust, he left Durandal in Tigre's care.
However, Tigre expression become one of concern when he took a glance at Fenris. He never told anyone yet but when he woke up, he felt the Black Bow wanted to lead him somewhere. Accompanied by Titta, they ended up being lead to a temple and Tigre ended up meeting with the Goddess of Darkness and Death, Tir Na Fal via Titta through possession. He was able to unlock the bow's power after passing her trial and thus the goddess released Titta and said she await the day would make the power of the bow his.
Yet Tigre recalled her final message as he watched Fenris walk away to return back to his duties.
"And be wary of your trust with the Dragon-Blooded. He is as mysterious as Hermaeus Mora; his true master."
From what he knows, Tir Na Fal was referring to Fenris and Mora was the demon he assisted back in his world. However, he saw that Fenris have noble intentions and felt his trust with the Dragonborn was well-placed.
Despite the events that have happened to him, he was nevertheless happy since he could finally resolve the issue of being a traitor for his decisions.
But fate sadly had other plans when Roland arrived in Nice ten days later…
"Quite cruel of you … To give Roland a punishment unfitting for a warrior like himself."
"With smile like that, you don't seem to be remorseful."
Within the palace of Nice was two people, who were discussing privately in a dimly lit room. One of them had an unusual appearance despite his regal clothing; being in his sixties yet he had a short stature and cruel eyes. The fact he made a sinister smile would make anyone uneasy, but not his associate.
His associate was in his late twenties and his height matches his age. He had short black hair, trimmed short beard, a well-fit figure and a light scar over his left eye; almost like a handsome warrior. However, the aura he generates give a sense of dread to those near him.
"Well, I would be remorseful for his death if he didn't fail in his task. I am not sure why you see that archer as a threat, but I was hoping that Roland would have killed the Dragonborn. Why did Fenris got warped to this world like I was?"
"If you say about this warrior is true, then it would be unfortunate that he will get involve in our plans."
"But if you keep your end of the bargain and provide what I need Ganelon, then I accomplished what Roland couldn't do."
"I will keep my promise Etis, but will have to keep your promise to me and my associates as my champion."
The two looked at each other with a sense of coldness from their eyes. Despite the silence, they said nothing like they made a wordless agreement of their respective promises.
It was then the silence is broken.
"You now, I could make discrete arrangements on his remains for your experiments, but…"
"Not to worry. Even if the wasps ruined his flesh, all I need is just his bones…"
Author's Note:
I have to admit, I am quite impress with myself when I started this story. I know the quality of my writing isn't the best, but I found getting this far in the story was nevertheless a feat.
I am aware of that I didn't include certain parts of the story that was in the light novel, but the story mostly involve Fenris, so events that he isn't involve in may or may not be included. If that bothers you, then you don't have to continue reading this story.
As for Mora's possible link to Tir Na Fal and his newest servant, I will leave those for you all to guess.
Harem: Ellen, Lim, Mila, Sofy, Liza, Valentina, Olga, Sasha, Fine(?)
(?) For now, I will place in Fine in the harem. However, I may make changes based on what I could learn about her.