Chapter Two
The Shadow Rising
As Draxxon saw his army behind Caan, he noticed Shadowstalker walking up towards them. Draxxon knew what the first question would be but didn't know how to answer it. He himself was shattered at the loss of Yanden.
As Shadowstalker stopped beside Caan, he spoke. "I see you have returned Draxxon. It had been to my understanding that a party of three left to find the mystic blade. I see only two have returned. Where is Yanden?"
Draxxon lowered his head in thought. The words were at the tip of his tongue, however, for some reason he did not wish to speak them. "I am waiting," Shadowstalker spoke once more growing a bit impatient.
"He fell lord Shadowstalker." Draxxon's voice was but a whisper, though Shadowstalker heard each word, as did Caan.
"Tell me how it happened."
Draxxon told the journey they took and of how they fled when Yanden made them. He told everything that happened without leaving one part out. Shantielmo nodded in approval to Draxxon's words showing that he was telling the truth. After he had told the full tale Shadowstalker stood in thought for a while. He then raised his head and spoke to Draxxon.
"Yanden is fine. He has not died. I know of this. Do not linger on your thoughts any longer Draxxon. He serves his purpose and moves on. He'll be here to aid us in the battle. You will see."
Draxxon nodded as he stepped forward to address his army. As he was about to begin one of the Oni shouted. "Something is coming from afar."
Draxxon and the others turned to see what it was. They could see far in the distance a large group of people were heading their way. As they were nearing, they saw that Yanden led the pack.
As they reached the rest Yanden came forth and spoke to Shadowstalker. "Forgive my lateness father, I was held up.I have come now and bring an army of the Vampire kin led by Khali the Vampire lord."
Shadowstalker placed his arms on Yanden's shoulders as he spoke. "It is great to have you back my son. You have done well to bring your old friend along in this battle. The Vampire kin is welcomed gracefully. Now you said you were held up? By what?"
Yanden sighed as he began to tell the others of what had occurred.
"As we journeyed to the north I constantly felt that we were been watched. My feelings were brought to reality as I saw what was hunting us. I bade the others to continue and let me be. Their weapons would have been of no use against the Soul Taker."
Shadowstalker gasped as he heard the words. "You were attacked by a Soul Taker and your still alive?"
"I think there is more to Yanden then meets the eye," Caan managed to butt in.
Yanden nodded. "Indeed I survived no thanks to Raiden. I was poisoned by the beast and awoke in Raiden's home. His servants cared for me and fed me until Raiden came. He knows that the blade was taken, but not who took it. He has his suspicions. No doubt you Draxxon. I battled him and fled his home. We must make haste and open war upon Edinia before Raiden comes to stop us."
Draxxon nodded as Yanden walked over and told him that he would be addressing the army. As Draxxon nodded in approval Yanden stood before the entire army and spoke in a loud voice.
"Welcome warriors from distant lands. You have been summoned here to aid the lord Draxxon to the throne of Edinia. Together we shall stand and battle, my brothers in arms. Together we shall shed our blood in the service of the lord Draxxon. Today is the beginning of the rise of the greatest force in existence!" The army shouted and waved their weaponry at the last words. Yanden raised his arms motioning them to a silence. "Tonight begins the battle to raise a rightful king to the throne of Edinia. It is seldom that we must march to our impending doom. However, if we should die this day.If we should die.then let us die with swords in hand and with a blade piercing our hearts. In the service of the great lord of Edinia. DRAXXON!"
The army rose in a single form and the voices of the warriors echoed throughout the land. With the raise of their swords, they began to march towards the province of Ishael. Yanden marched with Draxxon and Shadowstalker towards the province of Ishael. Ishael was the first city that needed to be overtaken.
Ishael was a quiet province. Mostly occupied by farmers and old folk. Mostly those that wished to spend the last years of their lives near the graces of nature. Planting their fruits and vegetables and tending to their gardens and livestock. These people did not receive visitors passing through the province as many other provinces did. It was known to some parts as the dying lands. It was where all those who were on the verge of death went to die.
They were only a half-hour until they reached the province. They knew they would not have any trouble overtaking it as none of its citizens cared for who was ruler. They accepted anyone as they accepted the last days of their lives.
They marched throughout the lands seeing its scenery and luscious fertility. Yanden was having thoughts of his own as they marched. He saw the way Draxxon eyed the mystic blade. He saw how he seemed to be controlled. He wondered if Raiden's words could have indeed been true. However, he knew there was no way to return at this stage. Only time would tell how Draxxon would play his part as ruler of Edinia.
As they entered the city of Ishael, the people rose their heads watching them as they crossed their paths. One came towards them and spoke in a soft voice. The being was hooded and from the voice, Yanden could tell it was a woman. "Welcome to the dying lands as you know doubt would know this place. What business could bring you here?"
Draxxon walked up to the woman and gave her a few gold coins. "I am Draxxon, soon to be the new emperor of Edinia. Before you is my army and we shall fight to take over Edinia and restore it to a greater purpose."
The woman did not seem amused of what she heard. She only nodded before she spoke. "Well good luck to you sir. We here have no ill-favoured thought for thee. As thou shalt know, these indeed are the dying lands. We haft lived our lives and have served each our own purpose. We will not hinder your passing or process. As long as you let us be."
Draxxon smiled as he smiled. "I am pleased you allow us crossing. The last thing we would want is to have to fight with you all. I believe fighting would be the last thing you all will want here."
The woman nodded as she turned and walked away leaving Draxxon and his army to walk clearly through the paths to the other side of the city. As they exited Ishael, they gathered together as Draxxon addressed his army.
"Here we shall split in four groups. Yanden and I along with a fair amount of warriors will head along this path towards Kuatan. Shadowstalker will head to the northlands of the old north folk. Shantielmo will head south towards the province of Uruin. And Caan shall travel southeast to Faille. We will meet in the heart of Edinia, in the province of Eäranlë.
As everyone agreed on their newly laid position, they split the army in four groups and went each to his own destination.
Caan was shocked that Draxxon picked Yanden to go with him. He was not feeling jealous at seeing Yanden go with Draxxon. However he wondered what would his friend want with Yanden.
The army of Vampires led by Khali went with Draxxon and Yanden towards the province of Kuatan. A few of the dragon beings came with them led by Gorbak. King of the subterranean underworld.
* * *
Shadowstalker could scarcely remember the last time he was in battle. It had been long since the battle to divide Edinia in nations. That battle was one as he knew this one would be. However, he was mindful of the outcome to this battle. He seemed to believe that Draxxon was not all he expected him to be. He agreed only time would tell and he would have to serve his purpose and see what the winds of time had in store for the future of Edinia.
It was half days travel to the northlands and Shadowstalker knew they would put up a great fight. The Northfolk were known to not give up their land willingly.
The Northfolk dwelled in the northern snow covered lands. Their main liking was the building of their ships and sailing the seas. However, they were known as the most barbarian natured dwellers of Edinia. Their love for war exceeded anything in existence. Their greatest defence had been that they would die before they gave up their land. Till this day, none have conquered them.
Shadowstalker did not seem to be worried about this though. He knew that in the end of the battle, he would emerge victorious. No matter what the Northfolk may have been like in battles of old. The time now is not the same as the time then. A new power is rising in Edinia, and nothing shall hinder the process. This is the fate that time has placed upon Edinia, so Shadowstalker thought.
The sun was beginning to set as they could see smoke from chimneys rising in the distance in front of them. Shadowstalker halted his army there; they would wait until nightfall to attack. By attacking at night, they would have the advantage of surprise. One thing always threw the Northfolk. Shadowstalker believed that he had the best plan to overthrow them.
There they waited until nightfall, when they saw all was quiet they began to march towards the city. Three leagues away from the village they began to quicken their pace to a charge. The ground began to rumble with the sound of a forthcoming army. The winds picked up and bells ran to signal all the citizens to prepare themselves for an attack. Men and women awoke frantically at the sound, the men took to their blades and horses as the women took to their children. Outside in the streets the men ran and rode towards the front gate and exit of the city, they met the army of Shadowstalker with a mighty clash. Swords striking, bows firing, the army's battled endlessly as Shadowstalker managed to drive them back into their city walls. The plan was working. The element of a surprise attack was the key to defeating them.
The battle went on until the general was captured and had a blade to his head. The battle had stopped. Shadowstalker had won. When the smoke of battle did clear. The bodies of thousands laid torn and scattered throughout the land. The earth drank much blood that day.
All the citizens were gathered in the cities centre. Women held to their children in fear of what was to come, and the men had their heads lowered in shame of having been defeated. Of having failed their families, and would no doubt see them die before their eyes this day.
Shadowstalker dismounted from his horse and stood before the citizens. "This day you are witnessing a new dawn on the realm of Edinia. The Lord Draxxon is rising to power. We do not wish to kill you. We only wish to have all lands in alliance with the great lord. If you deny us, then you shall be annihilated. If you accept us, then you shall be spared and your city will again be yours. With only one difference, we will have our own people on guard here also. Do accept?"
The general of the city nodded in acceptance. He would do anything to save the lives of his people at this stage. Shadowstalker ordered a group of his warriors to take their posts on the watchtowers. He had all weapons removed from the citizens and allowed them to go back to their daily rituals.
The general stayed alongside Shadowstalker and spoke to him. "You do not kill us?"
"Our purpose is not to kill you Vladimir. We only wish to have all lands not fight against the new lord rising."
"What if this lord changes his mind and begins to kill the people?"
Shadowstalker thought for a moment. "That will not happen. However, if it does, then he will have me fighting against him. This is not the purpose we are fighting for, and most of us will turn against him if he does that."
Vladimir nodded as they walked to the exit. He didn't really believe Shadowstalker's words however there was some truth in what he said which made him wonder if indeed Shadowstalker had been underestimated by most citizens.
* * *
Khali rode his horse beside the elusive lord of shadow, Yanden. The two seemed to be silent however known to none was the fact that they talked through their powers. An old power known as telepathy and silent speech to the common being, they discussed the events that occurred before them.
"My old friend, I have no objection to helping you in this quest. Ever have we been friends and forever we shall be. Nothing shall tear us apart. However.I sense a bad outcome to this. I feel something is hidden from us. Draxxon is hiding something." Yanden eyed the land in front of him, considering all the words. However only few words stuck to his mind and they were not Khali's. They were the words Raiden had spoken back in his quarters.
"Khali, I know not anymore if this is right. But our mission is to see Draxxon to the throne. I believe it is a rightful quest.however.should I be wrong, then Draxxon shall be dealt with. Until that time comes, we will ever be loyal to him. Lest we be wrong and face exile from our own lands."
"Then I will not linger on my feelings any longer my friend. I am at your side till the end. If we should die, then let us die with swords in hand and our hearts pierced by the cold steel of death."
"It is not a matter of following me my friend. My life lies with Shadowstalker.for now at least.Hold your feelings for they may serve you well."
"What do you mean Yanden? You said for now at least.what did you mean?"
Yanden gave a small sigh before he spoke. His face hidden within the shadow of his hooded cloak. "I have been raised by Shadowstalker since I was twenty-three years old. Yet, I will return to my world and to the one that awaits me. My time here is nearly over. I have something waiting for me, and I will not let anything stand between me and what I wish to achieve."
"Hmmm. And you will leave Shadowstalker.Is that possible?"
"Shadowstalker will appreciate my decision. He has no say in it. He will live with it or he will not live at all."
"Do you hear yourself Yanden? You do not sound like the Yanden I once knew."
"People change Khali.Especially me. My friend.I do not mean to sound harsh or rude. You know me well, and know that I am not one for talking. Raiden saved me from a Soul taker. His words afterwards were not very pleasant and they have stuck to me as glue sticks to its surroundings. But time will only tell if what I feel will come to pass."
"And what is that Yanden?"
"Patience my friend. You know my theory of telling people the future. If you know what is to come then you are no better then a sheep that is led by its herder. Each being must live his or her time and learn for themselves."
"Truer words could not have been spoken. There, we are near. The outskirts of Kuatan are nearing."
Yanden looked in front of him and saw the province of Kuatan in the distance. To his surprise, he saw an army gathered at the foot of the mountains before the city.
"They are ready for battle it seems," said Yanden as Draxxon nodded.
"Maybe not," replied Draxxon. "I had sent a message to Kuatan a few days ago. They have joined us. No battle will be fought here."
Yanden didn't speak again; he just waited to near the army that awaited them in the far distance. Thoughts began to drift into his mind however he kept them hidden. He was not sure what the future would bring, but he was beginning to feel uneasy as something not been right.
As they neared the army, Gorbak, king of kuatan walked forward and bowed to Draxxon. "Welcome lord Draxxon. Lord of the Black Dragon, and Lord of Edinia. I Gorbak welcome you to Kuatan. The heart of Edinia and the fortress of kings is to the north. As none have proclaimed themselves king for many an age, this is your chance. The fortress is unwatched. You need only march into its halls and sit upon the throne, and with your army established around the city walls. No one will fight against you."
Draxxon nodded and smiled at the words. "Then let us go now my friend. This is the hour of the awakening." The army journeyed to the north, Yanden not speaking one word. Inside he was furious with a fire that burned greater then any other. Yet he held his feelings.
The army rode towards the heart of Edinia where they were met by Shadowstalker and his group. Together they marched into the hall of kings. The people watched them enter yet no one tried to stop them. No one was so foolish to stop them. Draxxon walked within the fortress and proclaimed himself ruler of Edinia before the people of the world. The time had come. The rise of the Black Dragon had finally come.
The Shadow Rising
As Draxxon saw his army behind Caan, he noticed Shadowstalker walking up towards them. Draxxon knew what the first question would be but didn't know how to answer it. He himself was shattered at the loss of Yanden.
As Shadowstalker stopped beside Caan, he spoke. "I see you have returned Draxxon. It had been to my understanding that a party of three left to find the mystic blade. I see only two have returned. Where is Yanden?"
Draxxon lowered his head in thought. The words were at the tip of his tongue, however, for some reason he did not wish to speak them. "I am waiting," Shadowstalker spoke once more growing a bit impatient.
"He fell lord Shadowstalker." Draxxon's voice was but a whisper, though Shadowstalker heard each word, as did Caan.
"Tell me how it happened."
Draxxon told the journey they took and of how they fled when Yanden made them. He told everything that happened without leaving one part out. Shantielmo nodded in approval to Draxxon's words showing that he was telling the truth. After he had told the full tale Shadowstalker stood in thought for a while. He then raised his head and spoke to Draxxon.
"Yanden is fine. He has not died. I know of this. Do not linger on your thoughts any longer Draxxon. He serves his purpose and moves on. He'll be here to aid us in the battle. You will see."
Draxxon nodded as he stepped forward to address his army. As he was about to begin one of the Oni shouted. "Something is coming from afar."
Draxxon and the others turned to see what it was. They could see far in the distance a large group of people were heading their way. As they were nearing, they saw that Yanden led the pack.
As they reached the rest Yanden came forth and spoke to Shadowstalker. "Forgive my lateness father, I was held up.I have come now and bring an army of the Vampire kin led by Khali the Vampire lord."
Shadowstalker placed his arms on Yanden's shoulders as he spoke. "It is great to have you back my son. You have done well to bring your old friend along in this battle. The Vampire kin is welcomed gracefully. Now you said you were held up? By what?"
Yanden sighed as he began to tell the others of what had occurred.
"As we journeyed to the north I constantly felt that we were been watched. My feelings were brought to reality as I saw what was hunting us. I bade the others to continue and let me be. Their weapons would have been of no use against the Soul Taker."
Shadowstalker gasped as he heard the words. "You were attacked by a Soul Taker and your still alive?"
"I think there is more to Yanden then meets the eye," Caan managed to butt in.
Yanden nodded. "Indeed I survived no thanks to Raiden. I was poisoned by the beast and awoke in Raiden's home. His servants cared for me and fed me until Raiden came. He knows that the blade was taken, but not who took it. He has his suspicions. No doubt you Draxxon. I battled him and fled his home. We must make haste and open war upon Edinia before Raiden comes to stop us."
Draxxon nodded as Yanden walked over and told him that he would be addressing the army. As Draxxon nodded in approval Yanden stood before the entire army and spoke in a loud voice.
"Welcome warriors from distant lands. You have been summoned here to aid the lord Draxxon to the throne of Edinia. Together we shall stand and battle, my brothers in arms. Together we shall shed our blood in the service of the lord Draxxon. Today is the beginning of the rise of the greatest force in existence!" The army shouted and waved their weaponry at the last words. Yanden raised his arms motioning them to a silence. "Tonight begins the battle to raise a rightful king to the throne of Edinia. It is seldom that we must march to our impending doom. However, if we should die this day.If we should die.then let us die with swords in hand and with a blade piercing our hearts. In the service of the great lord of Edinia. DRAXXON!"
The army rose in a single form and the voices of the warriors echoed throughout the land. With the raise of their swords, they began to march towards the province of Ishael. Yanden marched with Draxxon and Shadowstalker towards the province of Ishael. Ishael was the first city that needed to be overtaken.
Ishael was a quiet province. Mostly occupied by farmers and old folk. Mostly those that wished to spend the last years of their lives near the graces of nature. Planting their fruits and vegetables and tending to their gardens and livestock. These people did not receive visitors passing through the province as many other provinces did. It was known to some parts as the dying lands. It was where all those who were on the verge of death went to die.
They were only a half-hour until they reached the province. They knew they would not have any trouble overtaking it as none of its citizens cared for who was ruler. They accepted anyone as they accepted the last days of their lives.
They marched throughout the lands seeing its scenery and luscious fertility. Yanden was having thoughts of his own as they marched. He saw the way Draxxon eyed the mystic blade. He saw how he seemed to be controlled. He wondered if Raiden's words could have indeed been true. However, he knew there was no way to return at this stage. Only time would tell how Draxxon would play his part as ruler of Edinia.
As they entered the city of Ishael, the people rose their heads watching them as they crossed their paths. One came towards them and spoke in a soft voice. The being was hooded and from the voice, Yanden could tell it was a woman. "Welcome to the dying lands as you know doubt would know this place. What business could bring you here?"
Draxxon walked up to the woman and gave her a few gold coins. "I am Draxxon, soon to be the new emperor of Edinia. Before you is my army and we shall fight to take over Edinia and restore it to a greater purpose."
The woman did not seem amused of what she heard. She only nodded before she spoke. "Well good luck to you sir. We here have no ill-favoured thought for thee. As thou shalt know, these indeed are the dying lands. We haft lived our lives and have served each our own purpose. We will not hinder your passing or process. As long as you let us be."
Draxxon smiled as he smiled. "I am pleased you allow us crossing. The last thing we would want is to have to fight with you all. I believe fighting would be the last thing you all will want here."
The woman nodded as she turned and walked away leaving Draxxon and his army to walk clearly through the paths to the other side of the city. As they exited Ishael, they gathered together as Draxxon addressed his army.
"Here we shall split in four groups. Yanden and I along with a fair amount of warriors will head along this path towards Kuatan. Shadowstalker will head to the northlands of the old north folk. Shantielmo will head south towards the province of Uruin. And Caan shall travel southeast to Faille. We will meet in the heart of Edinia, in the province of Eäranlë.
As everyone agreed on their newly laid position, they split the army in four groups and went each to his own destination.
Caan was shocked that Draxxon picked Yanden to go with him. He was not feeling jealous at seeing Yanden go with Draxxon. However he wondered what would his friend want with Yanden.
The army of Vampires led by Khali went with Draxxon and Yanden towards the province of Kuatan. A few of the dragon beings came with them led by Gorbak. King of the subterranean underworld.
* * *
Shadowstalker could scarcely remember the last time he was in battle. It had been long since the battle to divide Edinia in nations. That battle was one as he knew this one would be. However, he was mindful of the outcome to this battle. He seemed to believe that Draxxon was not all he expected him to be. He agreed only time would tell and he would have to serve his purpose and see what the winds of time had in store for the future of Edinia.
It was half days travel to the northlands and Shadowstalker knew they would put up a great fight. The Northfolk were known to not give up their land willingly.
The Northfolk dwelled in the northern snow covered lands. Their main liking was the building of their ships and sailing the seas. However, they were known as the most barbarian natured dwellers of Edinia. Their love for war exceeded anything in existence. Their greatest defence had been that they would die before they gave up their land. Till this day, none have conquered them.
Shadowstalker did not seem to be worried about this though. He knew that in the end of the battle, he would emerge victorious. No matter what the Northfolk may have been like in battles of old. The time now is not the same as the time then. A new power is rising in Edinia, and nothing shall hinder the process. This is the fate that time has placed upon Edinia, so Shadowstalker thought.
The sun was beginning to set as they could see smoke from chimneys rising in the distance in front of them. Shadowstalker halted his army there; they would wait until nightfall to attack. By attacking at night, they would have the advantage of surprise. One thing always threw the Northfolk. Shadowstalker believed that he had the best plan to overthrow them.
There they waited until nightfall, when they saw all was quiet they began to march towards the city. Three leagues away from the village they began to quicken their pace to a charge. The ground began to rumble with the sound of a forthcoming army. The winds picked up and bells ran to signal all the citizens to prepare themselves for an attack. Men and women awoke frantically at the sound, the men took to their blades and horses as the women took to their children. Outside in the streets the men ran and rode towards the front gate and exit of the city, they met the army of Shadowstalker with a mighty clash. Swords striking, bows firing, the army's battled endlessly as Shadowstalker managed to drive them back into their city walls. The plan was working. The element of a surprise attack was the key to defeating them.
The battle went on until the general was captured and had a blade to his head. The battle had stopped. Shadowstalker had won. When the smoke of battle did clear. The bodies of thousands laid torn and scattered throughout the land. The earth drank much blood that day.
All the citizens were gathered in the cities centre. Women held to their children in fear of what was to come, and the men had their heads lowered in shame of having been defeated. Of having failed their families, and would no doubt see them die before their eyes this day.
Shadowstalker dismounted from his horse and stood before the citizens. "This day you are witnessing a new dawn on the realm of Edinia. The Lord Draxxon is rising to power. We do not wish to kill you. We only wish to have all lands in alliance with the great lord. If you deny us, then you shall be annihilated. If you accept us, then you shall be spared and your city will again be yours. With only one difference, we will have our own people on guard here also. Do accept?"
The general of the city nodded in acceptance. He would do anything to save the lives of his people at this stage. Shadowstalker ordered a group of his warriors to take their posts on the watchtowers. He had all weapons removed from the citizens and allowed them to go back to their daily rituals.
The general stayed alongside Shadowstalker and spoke to him. "You do not kill us?"
"Our purpose is not to kill you Vladimir. We only wish to have all lands not fight against the new lord rising."
"What if this lord changes his mind and begins to kill the people?"
Shadowstalker thought for a moment. "That will not happen. However, if it does, then he will have me fighting against him. This is not the purpose we are fighting for, and most of us will turn against him if he does that."
Vladimir nodded as they walked to the exit. He didn't really believe Shadowstalker's words however there was some truth in what he said which made him wonder if indeed Shadowstalker had been underestimated by most citizens.
* * *
Khali rode his horse beside the elusive lord of shadow, Yanden. The two seemed to be silent however known to none was the fact that they talked through their powers. An old power known as telepathy and silent speech to the common being, they discussed the events that occurred before them.
"My old friend, I have no objection to helping you in this quest. Ever have we been friends and forever we shall be. Nothing shall tear us apart. However.I sense a bad outcome to this. I feel something is hidden from us. Draxxon is hiding something." Yanden eyed the land in front of him, considering all the words. However only few words stuck to his mind and they were not Khali's. They were the words Raiden had spoken back in his quarters.
"Khali, I know not anymore if this is right. But our mission is to see Draxxon to the throne. I believe it is a rightful quest.however.should I be wrong, then Draxxon shall be dealt with. Until that time comes, we will ever be loyal to him. Lest we be wrong and face exile from our own lands."
"Then I will not linger on my feelings any longer my friend. I am at your side till the end. If we should die, then let us die with swords in hand and our hearts pierced by the cold steel of death."
"It is not a matter of following me my friend. My life lies with Shadowstalker.for now at least.Hold your feelings for they may serve you well."
"What do you mean Yanden? You said for now at least.what did you mean?"
Yanden gave a small sigh before he spoke. His face hidden within the shadow of his hooded cloak. "I have been raised by Shadowstalker since I was twenty-three years old. Yet, I will return to my world and to the one that awaits me. My time here is nearly over. I have something waiting for me, and I will not let anything stand between me and what I wish to achieve."
"Hmmm. And you will leave Shadowstalker.Is that possible?"
"Shadowstalker will appreciate my decision. He has no say in it. He will live with it or he will not live at all."
"Do you hear yourself Yanden? You do not sound like the Yanden I once knew."
"People change Khali.Especially me. My friend.I do not mean to sound harsh or rude. You know me well, and know that I am not one for talking. Raiden saved me from a Soul taker. His words afterwards were not very pleasant and they have stuck to me as glue sticks to its surroundings. But time will only tell if what I feel will come to pass."
"And what is that Yanden?"
"Patience my friend. You know my theory of telling people the future. If you know what is to come then you are no better then a sheep that is led by its herder. Each being must live his or her time and learn for themselves."
"Truer words could not have been spoken. There, we are near. The outskirts of Kuatan are nearing."
Yanden looked in front of him and saw the province of Kuatan in the distance. To his surprise, he saw an army gathered at the foot of the mountains before the city.
"They are ready for battle it seems," said Yanden as Draxxon nodded.
"Maybe not," replied Draxxon. "I had sent a message to Kuatan a few days ago. They have joined us. No battle will be fought here."
Yanden didn't speak again; he just waited to near the army that awaited them in the far distance. Thoughts began to drift into his mind however he kept them hidden. He was not sure what the future would bring, but he was beginning to feel uneasy as something not been right.
As they neared the army, Gorbak, king of kuatan walked forward and bowed to Draxxon. "Welcome lord Draxxon. Lord of the Black Dragon, and Lord of Edinia. I Gorbak welcome you to Kuatan. The heart of Edinia and the fortress of kings is to the north. As none have proclaimed themselves king for many an age, this is your chance. The fortress is unwatched. You need only march into its halls and sit upon the throne, and with your army established around the city walls. No one will fight against you."
Draxxon nodded and smiled at the words. "Then let us go now my friend. This is the hour of the awakening." The army journeyed to the north, Yanden not speaking one word. Inside he was furious with a fire that burned greater then any other. Yet he held his feelings.
The army rode towards the heart of Edinia where they were met by Shadowstalker and his group. Together they marched into the hall of kings. The people watched them enter yet no one tried to stop them. No one was so foolish to stop them. Draxxon walked within the fortress and proclaimed himself ruler of Edinia before the people of the world. The time had come. The rise of the Black Dragon had finally come.