{rtf1macansicpg10000cocoartf102
{fonttblf0fswissfcharset77 Helvetica;}
{colortbl;red255green255blue255;}
margl1440margr1440vieww18100viewh14040viewkind0
pardtx720tx1440tx2160tx2880tx3600tx4320tx5040tx5760tx6480tx7200tx7920tx8640qlqnatural
f0fs24 cf0
Hello, again dear readers ! Wow, already 10 reviews... I never thought I would get so much of them. Thank you so much. I have not forgotten my promises, and although there are no new characters in this chapter, they may come sooner then you might think. Well, back to the story !
''Long ago, when the three Prime Evils, Diablo of Terror, Mephisto of Hatred and Baal of Destruction, still ruled the Burning Hells, the Lesser Evils began plotting a revolution to overthrow the Three''
''And why did they want that ?'' asked Melissa.
The three heroes were listening attentively to Deckard Cain, who after sleeping a good night since his rescue seemed to be already full of a surprising vitality for such an old man. The warriors, however, still looked tired after their ordeal at Tristram. Melissa was pale, and quieter than usual and Welfor was still fearing for the safety of his village. Arcadio seemed to be the only one ready for action. Basanti was chatting with the other Rogue archers, probably telling them about Tristram. Akara and Kashya were also listening to the last of the Horadrim.
''As the Sin Wars plodded along through the centuries, most demons began to grow tired of their constant defeats against mortals. The demons couldn't see why the Three wanted to fight in the mortal world. They wanted to go back to the epic times of the Great Conflict, in which they had laid sieged to the gates of the High Heavens. Indeed, Hell's greatest enemy has always been Heaven and most of the demons couldn't grasp the reason of fighting here, in the mortal plane. Does that answer to your question ?'' said the wise man, smiling warmly at Melissa.
''Yes, please continue.'' stated Melissa pleasantly.
''The two most powerful of the Lesser demons were formidable infernal creatures, known as Azmodan and Belial. Those two monsters, after waiting patiently for two centuries, finally saw their chance to overthrow the Three and take control of Hell for themselves, as discontentment about the Three's strategy put most of Hell's forces in their side, and they sealed a pact with other Lesser Evils. One of them, was the Maiden of Anguish, Andariel. There were others too, the Prince of Pain, Duriel, the Lord de Seis, the Infector of Souls, the Grand Vizir of Chaos, and some minor demons too.''
''I don't understand. Why is Andariel now serving Diablo, and covering his retreat, if she has rebelled against him ?'' asked Arcadio.
''You will understand. The revolution overthrew the Prime Evils, and they were banned from Hell. Mankind celebrated the Prime Evils defeat, thinking that the Sin Wars' end would finally restore peace in our world. How far were we from the truth.... For the Prime Evils came to our world, and caused much suffering and anguish. I will not tell you details about it. Just know that it is since then, that demons have spread throughout the whole known world. Finally, when the world seemed to be doomed, Tyrael disobeying Heaven's orders gave us the Soulstones, and thanks to their holy powers, my Order, the Horadrim was able to imprison the Three within the Stones.''
''And where are those Stones now, if Evil has managed to awake despite their powers ?'' asked Welfor.
''The Stones were placed very far from each other, to prevent the Prime Evils from uniting again. Mephisto's one was entrusted to the Zakarum Church, and the Lord of Hatred is still chained in the Guardian Tower, beneath the Temple City of Travincal'' Cain looked strangely at Arcadio before continuing. ''Baal's one, had been broken in an encounter with the Lord of Destruction. One of my ancestors, Tal Rasha, a Horadrim mage, seeing that the Stone wouldn't be able to contain the demon forever, volunteered himself to contain the Lord of Destruction forever. Tyrael and Tal Rasha led the Horadrim to secret tombs built long ago by forgotten nomads of the desert, and there Tyrael placed the Stone inside Tal Rasha's chest, and sealed the Tomb, and since then Tal Rasha has been fighting the demon, and will keep doing so for all etenity''.
All shivered with the thought. What an horrible fate....
''Diablo's Soulstone'' said Cain after a small pause ''was placed in the cellars beneath King Leoric's palace, where it was supposed to stay for all eternity. Yet, this wasn't the case.''
''I have heard rumors that Diablo is once again free. Do you mean that.....'' Melissa couldn't continue.
''Yes, my child. Those rumors are true. Diablo has been set free.''
''How come that the holy gifts given by the Archangels Tyrael have failed ?'' asked Arcadio, after a shocked silence.
''My ancestors, despite their valorous deeds, made one single and deadly mistake. They underestimated the power of corruption emanating from the Stones. Centuries have passed, and everything seemed to be all right. But Diablo's work began to be felt in the kingdom of Khanduras. Leoric was too strong to be corrupted, but he became mad because of Diablo's evil work. The Lord of Terror managed, however, to corrupt Prince Albrecht, but the child was too weak to set him free. It was then that Diablo saw a more interesting victim. A man, of great power and wisdom, and his hunger for knowledge made him the perfect victim for Diablo's corruption. His name was Lazarus, ambassador of the Zakarum in Tristram.''
''Yes... he may be the cause of our Church's division.'' said Arcadio. All looked at him, for the Paladin's usual contained face was now filled with emotion. He seemed to be struggling for words ''But..... if Diablo's Soulstone corrupted all of Leoric's kingdom... then... the Temple City... Mephisto.....''
Deckard Cain looked at him, and said nothing. Welfor put a comforting hand on his shoulder.
''Don't fear, my friend. The Zakarum wouldn't let themselves fall so easily in the hands of the Prime Evils. They serve the Light, and only the Light, never forget !''
Arcadio's face lit with hope for a moment, but it lasted only some seconds before he came back to his dark mood. Melissa came too by her friend's side and hugged him saying.
''Yeah, don't worry. And if Mephisto did any harm to your homeland, we will be sure to make him pay, won't we ?''
''That's for sure !'' said Welfor cheerfully.
''Thank you my friends. You give me faith... I only hope to get on time...''
''It doesn't matter whether you get or not on time. The simple fact of going to your homeland makes you heroic, even if there is nothing you can do to save your Church.'' said Kashya. All were surprised to see her being nice to an outlander, and Akara quickly added.
''And remember that we will always have a place for you if you have nowhere to go.''
''Thank you Sisters. I will keep that in mind.'' said Arcadio smiling.
Seeing that the Paladin looked better Deckard Cain proceeded ''As I was saying, Diablo corrupted Lazarus's spirit, and the ambassador from Kurast went into the dark labyrinth where the Soulstone was hidden, and freed the Lord of Terror. You know the rest as much as I do.... Terrible wars ravaged Khanduras, as King Leoric's maddened army began plundering villages and slaughtering entire towns, before finally being defeated by all sorts of heroes from all parts of Sanctuary in Westmarch.
''Yes, I was there.'' said Arcadio.
''And so was I. But unfortunately, Diablo had been working too. He managed to craft a portal directly from the cellars of Leoric's castle to Hell, and probably used his demonic powers to punish the ones who betrayed him centuries earlier. Azmodan and Belial must have been destroyed. It would be dangerous for Diablo to have so powerful and ambitious demons still by his side. Andariel, probably scared by Diablo's wrath, has once again sworn loyalty to the Lord of Terror, and is now helping him in his quest to free his brothers. This, is the current situation.''
All fell silent once again. Akara was the first to speak.
''Well, these are most tragic news. Diablo has to be stopped before he reaches Baal, that is sure.''
''We are not going to allow this ! I think we should immediately go to the Monastery to kill Andariel, and travel East to get to him.'' said Arcadio fiercely.
''I'll go with you, as I already said'' said Welfor.
''Count me in too !'' said Melissa.
''And I am going too. You will need someone to guide you through the Monastery, and I am the best Rogue archer in here.'' said Kashya.
Akara quickly reacted '' No, no, no, we need you here Kashya, you know that ! Who will protect this camp if you go ?''
''Basanti or any other experienced Rogue can take the commandment ! Anyway, what am I doing here ? I do not even fight, and stay here, in front of the fire, while my warriors risk their lives ! I am tired of that Akara ! I am going with them, and if you don't let me go, I will have to escape then !'' yelled Kashya.
After a small pause, Akara finally whispered ''I raised you to be strong-willed... Looks like I did a good job........'' and she said loudly ''It is settled. But please be careful ! You are still needed in the Sisterhood.''
''Don't worry. You know me'' said Kashya smiling.''
''I'm sorry to interrupt'' said Melissa apologetically '' but I'm starving. Could we please have something to eat ?''
''Oh ! I'm sorry to keep you hungry. Please help yourselves with the food near the fire.'' said Akara.
During the meal, Kashya came to Arcadio.
''I think we should leave as soon as possible, and I advise we go tonight. The lands around the camp are usually safe, and we should be able to walk far enough to prevent Andariel from knowing about our expedition'' she said.
''I agree. How long does it take to get to the Monastery ?''
''Well, I would say three days, perhaps more if we encounter to many demons. We will need to camp in the wilderness and carry our own supplies.''
''Fine. Can you arrange that ?''
''I will. Tell your little friends to be ready to leave at nightfall. I will see you then. '' and she left.
At sunset, the four were ready to go. The night was quite cold, and Melissa shivered as a freezing breeze chilled her to the bone. Kashya had gathered all supplies they would need for their trip, and they now were at the camp's entrance. Akara, Basanti and Deckard Cain were there too.
''I wish you the best of luck. You may be the last hope of our Sisterhood, and the Great Eye will watch over you.'' said Akara.
''Unfortunately I can't help you much with that quest. However, take this scroll.'' Cain said, as he handed Arcadio a blue scroll. ''This magical scroll will open a temporary portal that will bring you directly to this camp. They are very rare, and I would advise only using it in fatal danger.''
''We will use it to come back here, once Andariel is dead'' said Welfor confidently.
''Good luck. I have to stay here to command the Rogue archers in Kashya's place, but you'll see, she's far stronger than I am.'' said Basanti.
''The night is falling. We should be going.'' said Kashya, interrupting the conversations.
And so the four heroes left the camp, and started their final quest.
They talked very little while walking during that night. Kashya had chosen to lead them into some kind of forest, to prevent them from being spotted by demons. She had explained how they would get to the Monastery, passing this forest, than entering a huge marsh, and at last going to the Tamoe mountains, where the Monastery used to guard the passage East. Suddenly Kashya stopped them.
''I heard something. Be as quiet as possible !'' she whispered.
They moved slowly and silently, eying the woods suspiciously. Suddenly, three blue-skinned demons appeared right in front of them, and immediately tried to run away. Melissa blasted one with a fire ball, and Kashya killed the other one with an accurate arrow, but the third managed to escape.
''This is no good ! If there are any other demons here, it will warn them'' said Arcadio.
As if to answer to him, they heard many demons yelling in some hellish language.
''We have to get out of those woods. Follow me !'' said Kashya.
Welfor would never forget this night : they ran, and ran through the endless forest, always surrounded by demons' yells, but without actually seeing them. Melissa was casting fire spells behind her to burn the forest, and the desperate shrieks of the demons being consumed by the flames proved her strategy to be effective. After what had seemed hours for them, they could see at last the end of the forest, but a huge amount of demons was blocking their path.
''Hurry ! We have to break through !'' yelled Kashya.
She started shooting arrows at the group, killing them one by one. Arcadio charged the first demon, smashing its head, and making the other run with fear. Welfor used one of his terrifying battle cries, and swung his axes in the middle of the mob, killing several of the small blue demons. As they prepared to kill the last remaining demons Melissa screamed.
''Watch out ! The flames are reaching us !''
The fire was rapidly advancing, and they could feel the incredible heat emanating from it. The ran once more, and finally managed to escaped the woods. Looking behind them, they could see the burning forest agonizing, as the fire now consumed the whole woods.
''Well.... that was close !'' said Melissa.
''The Dark Woods have always been dangerous, but I would never have imagined it to be so full of demons.'' said Kashya more to herself than to her companions.
''Dark Woods... what an appropriate name.'' commented Welfor.
''And where are we now ?'' asked Arcadio, peering through the darkness.
''This place is known as the Black Marsh. I was expecting to go through the forest to the mountains, but I guess we'll have to go through the Marsh now. We will camp here tonight.''
None of them was able to sleep very much, fearing an attack which never came. They ate a small portion of their food before proceeding through the marsh. Kashya led them through small paths in the wilderness. The warriors barely talked to each other, saving their strength to walk. Sometimes they came across small and isolated farms, but their inhabitants had either fled or been killed. Surprisingly enough, they saw no demons, and were able to walk all morning without any encounter with Andariel's minions.They made a short pause when the sun ( which was barely visible behind the dark clouds the heroes were growing used to) was already high in the sky, and ate a frugal meal.
''Well that was easy ! If the trip continues like that, it'll be really easy to get to the Monastery.'' said Melissa, with her usual cheerful voice.
''Don't get too optimistic. I think that after our little exploit in the forest, Andariel must have guessed that we are heading towards the Monastery.'' said Kashya gloomily.
''So you think she has called all her minions back to the Monastery ?'' asked Welfor.
''I cannot say for sure. But expect trouble there'' she answered.
They resumed the trip in an even darker mood, and not even Melissa was able to talk anymore that day.
Night came again and after another small and tasteless meal, they camped again in the wilderness. Although his body felt tired and sore, Arcadio couldn't sleep. Tired of turning under his covers, he decided to have a walk. Exiting silently the tent he was sharing with Welfor, Arcadio sat near the remaining ashes from the fire they had used to cook their diner. Suddenly he heard steps coming in his direction. He tensed, expecting to see some kind of beast coming, but instead saw Melissa approaching, seeming deep in thought.
''Oh, hello ! Couldn't sleep as well ?'' she asked.
''No.'' he replied, sitting back. ''I thought that perhaps getting some air would help me sleep, and think....''
She merely nodded, sitting beside him.
''So.... May I ask you what were you thinking about ?''
Arcadio kept silent, staring at the ashes.
''You don't have to tell me if you don't want to.'' she said softly.
''No, it's okay. I was just wondering what I was going to do after this war is over, if I get to see the end of it.''
''And what have you decided ?'' she asked.
''Nothing. I don't want to think about it yet.'' he said darkly.
''Aren't you going back to your home ?'' she asked innocently.
''Home ? I can't see any place I could call home.''
''Well, I thought you would go back to Karast.''
''Kurast'' Arcadio corrected, with a weak smile.
''Yes, that's it.''
''No.... As you well know, Kurast is likely to be in the same state than Tristram.'' Melissa opened her mouth, but Arcadio cut her ''No.... You don't have to tell me Kurast hasn't fallen. I heard rumors, even here, so far from the Eastern Empires. But in the end, it doesn't matter.'' he said.
''I... don't understand.'' Melissa said.
Arcadio sighed. ''What is Kurast for me ? I was found as a baby in the jungle not far from the city. My parents were probably killed by the demons that roamed the jungle, but for some reason I survived. That's what I was told by the priests who raised me, as a Paladin. In Kurast, most orphans are entrusted to the Church, and that's how I became a Paladin.''
''And do you regret it ?''
''No. I love being a Paladin, and be able to protect the innocent from Evil's destructive will, while serving the glory of the Light. The few friends I made amongst the other Paladin where killed, some even in the battle in Westmarch. You see, there is no reason for me to go back to Kurast.'' he concluded.
''I see.''
After a small pause, Arcadio dared to ask.
''What about you Melissa ? What are you planning to do after this war ?''
''I would love to go live in a small village, where I would know everyone by their names. I would open some kind of inn, and all travelers would be delighted by my cooking skills and hospitality. Then I would amaze them with my magic skills, and my inn would be known as 'The most comfortable inn in whole Sanctuary ! Isn't that a nice dream ?'' she asked grinning.
''Very idyllic indeed. I hope it becomes truth.'' he answered, smiling as well.
''It will, it will. Just give me time. You ought to join me too. I really would need a waiter to serve diner.''
''What ? A noble knight of Zakarum deserves more respect than that !'' said Arcadio, feigning to feel insulted.
''Ah ! See, you're already in a better mood.'' Melissa said. She then yawned and rubbed her tired eyes. ''Well, I would love to keep chatting, but I'm really tired now.''
''Yes , we should both go sleep. Hard work awaits us tomorrow.''
''Oh, I don't think so, no demons dare to attack us. They're all scared of my amazing fire spells ever since I burnt the Dark Woods, hehe.'' said Melissa arrogantly.
''Keep your amazing fire spells until we get to Andariel. Good night.'' said playfully Arcadio, walking back to his tent.
The next two days were no surprise for the four. Only walking, eating, walking, camping. In the middle of the fourth day, however, the journey finally ended, and they saw their destinations : the Monastery. They carefully approached the Monastery's front door, which was provocatively open. Kashya stopped them suddenly and turned.
''Before we enter, I would like to say that if you do not wish to enter, it is now or never.'' said the Rogue, eyeing them one by one.
''We will do this to the end.'' stated Welfor simply.
Arcadio and Melissa nodded in approval. Kashya looked at them, and Welfor could have sworn he saw a glimpse of respect in the woman's eyes. And they entered Andariel's stronghold, without looking back.
Lots of talking, and very little action, eh ? But don't worry, the next chapter will be full of fighting. I skipped the Tower quest, but I would like to tell you that the Countess from the game of Diablo II is inspired in a real historical person !! It is true, her name was Elizabeth Bathory, nicknamed Countess Dracula, for obvious reasons. She lived in the end of the fourteenth century, and was Countess of Transylvania. She became famous because of her sadistic behavior, for she used to torture her servants and then bathe in their blood to keep her own youth. Doesn't that sound like ''And so it came to pass, that the Countess, who once bathed in the rejuvenating blood of a hindred virgins, etc, etc....''. Furthermore, when the text says she was "buried alive" is probably a reference to her gruesome death. The Hungarian King, Matias heard of the Elizabeth's horrors and invaded her tower with his army. Horrified by what he saw, he ordered his soldiers to destroy the door to her bedroom and build a wall there, and he let her die of starvation there after telling her : "Stay there, die, and take the punishment for your horrible life. May God have mercy of your darkened soul !". Well I don't know if this really interests you, just a fun thing I discovered while studying... Anyway leave a review please, and tell me everything : expectations, comments, etc... Stay tuned for next chapter !
}
Hello, again dear readers ! Wow, already 10 reviews... I never thought I would get so much of them. Thank you so much. I have not forgotten my promises, and although there are no new characters in this chapter, they may come sooner then you might think. Well, back to the story !
''Long ago, when the three Prime Evils, Diablo of Terror, Mephisto of Hatred and Baal of Destruction, still ruled the Burning Hells, the Lesser Evils began plotting a revolution to overthrow the Three''
''And why did they want that ?'' asked Melissa.
The three heroes were listening attentively to Deckard Cain, who after sleeping a good night since his rescue seemed to be already full of a surprising vitality for such an old man. The warriors, however, still looked tired after their ordeal at Tristram. Melissa was pale, and quieter than usual and Welfor was still fearing for the safety of his village. Arcadio seemed to be the only one ready for action. Basanti was chatting with the other Rogue archers, probably telling them about Tristram. Akara and Kashya were also listening to the last of the Horadrim.
''As the Sin Wars plodded along through the centuries, most demons began to grow tired of their constant defeats against mortals. The demons couldn't see why the Three wanted to fight in the mortal world. They wanted to go back to the epic times of the Great Conflict, in which they had laid sieged to the gates of the High Heavens. Indeed, Hell's greatest enemy has always been Heaven and most of the demons couldn't grasp the reason of fighting here, in the mortal plane. Does that answer to your question ?'' said the wise man, smiling warmly at Melissa.
''Yes, please continue.'' stated Melissa pleasantly.
''The two most powerful of the Lesser demons were formidable infernal creatures, known as Azmodan and Belial. Those two monsters, after waiting patiently for two centuries, finally saw their chance to overthrow the Three and take control of Hell for themselves, as discontentment about the Three's strategy put most of Hell's forces in their side, and they sealed a pact with other Lesser Evils. One of them, was the Maiden of Anguish, Andariel. There were others too, the Prince of Pain, Duriel, the Lord de Seis, the Infector of Souls, the Grand Vizir of Chaos, and some minor demons too.''
''I don't understand. Why is Andariel now serving Diablo, and covering his retreat, if she has rebelled against him ?'' asked Arcadio.
''You will understand. The revolution overthrew the Prime Evils, and they were banned from Hell. Mankind celebrated the Prime Evils defeat, thinking that the Sin Wars' end would finally restore peace in our world. How far were we from the truth.... For the Prime Evils came to our world, and caused much suffering and anguish. I will not tell you details about it. Just know that it is since then, that demons have spread throughout the whole known world. Finally, when the world seemed to be doomed, Tyrael disobeying Heaven's orders gave us the Soulstones, and thanks to their holy powers, my Order, the Horadrim was able to imprison the Three within the Stones.''
''And where are those Stones now, if Evil has managed to awake despite their powers ?'' asked Welfor.
''The Stones were placed very far from each other, to prevent the Prime Evils from uniting again. Mephisto's one was entrusted to the Zakarum Church, and the Lord of Hatred is still chained in the Guardian Tower, beneath the Temple City of Travincal'' Cain looked strangely at Arcadio before continuing. ''Baal's one, had been broken in an encounter with the Lord of Destruction. One of my ancestors, Tal Rasha, a Horadrim mage, seeing that the Stone wouldn't be able to contain the demon forever, volunteered himself to contain the Lord of Destruction forever. Tyrael and Tal Rasha led the Horadrim to secret tombs built long ago by forgotten nomads of the desert, and there Tyrael placed the Stone inside Tal Rasha's chest, and sealed the Tomb, and since then Tal Rasha has been fighting the demon, and will keep doing so for all etenity''.
All shivered with the thought. What an horrible fate....
''Diablo's Soulstone'' said Cain after a small pause ''was placed in the cellars beneath King Leoric's palace, where it was supposed to stay for all eternity. Yet, this wasn't the case.''
''I have heard rumors that Diablo is once again free. Do you mean that.....'' Melissa couldn't continue.
''Yes, my child. Those rumors are true. Diablo has been set free.''
''How come that the holy gifts given by the Archangels Tyrael have failed ?'' asked Arcadio, after a shocked silence.
''My ancestors, despite their valorous deeds, made one single and deadly mistake. They underestimated the power of corruption emanating from the Stones. Centuries have passed, and everything seemed to be all right. But Diablo's work began to be felt in the kingdom of Khanduras. Leoric was too strong to be corrupted, but he became mad because of Diablo's evil work. The Lord of Terror managed, however, to corrupt Prince Albrecht, but the child was too weak to set him free. It was then that Diablo saw a more interesting victim. A man, of great power and wisdom, and his hunger for knowledge made him the perfect victim for Diablo's corruption. His name was Lazarus, ambassador of the Zakarum in Tristram.''
''Yes... he may be the cause of our Church's division.'' said Arcadio. All looked at him, for the Paladin's usual contained face was now filled with emotion. He seemed to be struggling for words ''But..... if Diablo's Soulstone corrupted all of Leoric's kingdom... then... the Temple City... Mephisto.....''
Deckard Cain looked at him, and said nothing. Welfor put a comforting hand on his shoulder.
''Don't fear, my friend. The Zakarum wouldn't let themselves fall so easily in the hands of the Prime Evils. They serve the Light, and only the Light, never forget !''
Arcadio's face lit with hope for a moment, but it lasted only some seconds before he came back to his dark mood. Melissa came too by her friend's side and hugged him saying.
''Yeah, don't worry. And if Mephisto did any harm to your homeland, we will be sure to make him pay, won't we ?''
''That's for sure !'' said Welfor cheerfully.
''Thank you my friends. You give me faith... I only hope to get on time...''
''It doesn't matter whether you get or not on time. The simple fact of going to your homeland makes you heroic, even if there is nothing you can do to save your Church.'' said Kashya. All were surprised to see her being nice to an outlander, and Akara quickly added.
''And remember that we will always have a place for you if you have nowhere to go.''
''Thank you Sisters. I will keep that in mind.'' said Arcadio smiling.
Seeing that the Paladin looked better Deckard Cain proceeded ''As I was saying, Diablo corrupted Lazarus's spirit, and the ambassador from Kurast went into the dark labyrinth where the Soulstone was hidden, and freed the Lord of Terror. You know the rest as much as I do.... Terrible wars ravaged Khanduras, as King Leoric's maddened army began plundering villages and slaughtering entire towns, before finally being defeated by all sorts of heroes from all parts of Sanctuary in Westmarch.
''Yes, I was there.'' said Arcadio.
''And so was I. But unfortunately, Diablo had been working too. He managed to craft a portal directly from the cellars of Leoric's castle to Hell, and probably used his demonic powers to punish the ones who betrayed him centuries earlier. Azmodan and Belial must have been destroyed. It would be dangerous for Diablo to have so powerful and ambitious demons still by his side. Andariel, probably scared by Diablo's wrath, has once again sworn loyalty to the Lord of Terror, and is now helping him in his quest to free his brothers. This, is the current situation.''
All fell silent once again. Akara was the first to speak.
''Well, these are most tragic news. Diablo has to be stopped before he reaches Baal, that is sure.''
''We are not going to allow this ! I think we should immediately go to the Monastery to kill Andariel, and travel East to get to him.'' said Arcadio fiercely.
''I'll go with you, as I already said'' said Welfor.
''Count me in too !'' said Melissa.
''And I am going too. You will need someone to guide you through the Monastery, and I am the best Rogue archer in here.'' said Kashya.
Akara quickly reacted '' No, no, no, we need you here Kashya, you know that ! Who will protect this camp if you go ?''
''Basanti or any other experienced Rogue can take the commandment ! Anyway, what am I doing here ? I do not even fight, and stay here, in front of the fire, while my warriors risk their lives ! I am tired of that Akara ! I am going with them, and if you don't let me go, I will have to escape then !'' yelled Kashya.
After a small pause, Akara finally whispered ''I raised you to be strong-willed... Looks like I did a good job........'' and she said loudly ''It is settled. But please be careful ! You are still needed in the Sisterhood.''
''Don't worry. You know me'' said Kashya smiling.''
''I'm sorry to interrupt'' said Melissa apologetically '' but I'm starving. Could we please have something to eat ?''
''Oh ! I'm sorry to keep you hungry. Please help yourselves with the food near the fire.'' said Akara.
During the meal, Kashya came to Arcadio.
''I think we should leave as soon as possible, and I advise we go tonight. The lands around the camp are usually safe, and we should be able to walk far enough to prevent Andariel from knowing about our expedition'' she said.
''I agree. How long does it take to get to the Monastery ?''
''Well, I would say three days, perhaps more if we encounter to many demons. We will need to camp in the wilderness and carry our own supplies.''
''Fine. Can you arrange that ?''
''I will. Tell your little friends to be ready to leave at nightfall. I will see you then. '' and she left.
At sunset, the four were ready to go. The night was quite cold, and Melissa shivered as a freezing breeze chilled her to the bone. Kashya had gathered all supplies they would need for their trip, and they now were at the camp's entrance. Akara, Basanti and Deckard Cain were there too.
''I wish you the best of luck. You may be the last hope of our Sisterhood, and the Great Eye will watch over you.'' said Akara.
''Unfortunately I can't help you much with that quest. However, take this scroll.'' Cain said, as he handed Arcadio a blue scroll. ''This magical scroll will open a temporary portal that will bring you directly to this camp. They are very rare, and I would advise only using it in fatal danger.''
''We will use it to come back here, once Andariel is dead'' said Welfor confidently.
''Good luck. I have to stay here to command the Rogue archers in Kashya's place, but you'll see, she's far stronger than I am.'' said Basanti.
''The night is falling. We should be going.'' said Kashya, interrupting the conversations.
And so the four heroes left the camp, and started their final quest.
They talked very little while walking during that night. Kashya had chosen to lead them into some kind of forest, to prevent them from being spotted by demons. She had explained how they would get to the Monastery, passing this forest, than entering a huge marsh, and at last going to the Tamoe mountains, where the Monastery used to guard the passage East. Suddenly Kashya stopped them.
''I heard something. Be as quiet as possible !'' she whispered.
They moved slowly and silently, eying the woods suspiciously. Suddenly, three blue-skinned demons appeared right in front of them, and immediately tried to run away. Melissa blasted one with a fire ball, and Kashya killed the other one with an accurate arrow, but the third managed to escape.
''This is no good ! If there are any other demons here, it will warn them'' said Arcadio.
As if to answer to him, they heard many demons yelling in some hellish language.
''We have to get out of those woods. Follow me !'' said Kashya.
Welfor would never forget this night : they ran, and ran through the endless forest, always surrounded by demons' yells, but without actually seeing them. Melissa was casting fire spells behind her to burn the forest, and the desperate shrieks of the demons being consumed by the flames proved her strategy to be effective. After what had seemed hours for them, they could see at last the end of the forest, but a huge amount of demons was blocking their path.
''Hurry ! We have to break through !'' yelled Kashya.
She started shooting arrows at the group, killing them one by one. Arcadio charged the first demon, smashing its head, and making the other run with fear. Welfor used one of his terrifying battle cries, and swung his axes in the middle of the mob, killing several of the small blue demons. As they prepared to kill the last remaining demons Melissa screamed.
''Watch out ! The flames are reaching us !''
The fire was rapidly advancing, and they could feel the incredible heat emanating from it. The ran once more, and finally managed to escaped the woods. Looking behind them, they could see the burning forest agonizing, as the fire now consumed the whole woods.
''Well.... that was close !'' said Melissa.
''The Dark Woods have always been dangerous, but I would never have imagined it to be so full of demons.'' said Kashya more to herself than to her companions.
''Dark Woods... what an appropriate name.'' commented Welfor.
''And where are we now ?'' asked Arcadio, peering through the darkness.
''This place is known as the Black Marsh. I was expecting to go through the forest to the mountains, but I guess we'll have to go through the Marsh now. We will camp here tonight.''
None of them was able to sleep very much, fearing an attack which never came. They ate a small portion of their food before proceeding through the marsh. Kashya led them through small paths in the wilderness. The warriors barely talked to each other, saving their strength to walk. Sometimes they came across small and isolated farms, but their inhabitants had either fled or been killed. Surprisingly enough, they saw no demons, and were able to walk all morning without any encounter with Andariel's minions.They made a short pause when the sun ( which was barely visible behind the dark clouds the heroes were growing used to) was already high in the sky, and ate a frugal meal.
''Well that was easy ! If the trip continues like that, it'll be really easy to get to the Monastery.'' said Melissa, with her usual cheerful voice.
''Don't get too optimistic. I think that after our little exploit in the forest, Andariel must have guessed that we are heading towards the Monastery.'' said Kashya gloomily.
''So you think she has called all her minions back to the Monastery ?'' asked Welfor.
''I cannot say for sure. But expect trouble there'' she answered.
They resumed the trip in an even darker mood, and not even Melissa was able to talk anymore that day.
Night came again and after another small and tasteless meal, they camped again in the wilderness. Although his body felt tired and sore, Arcadio couldn't sleep. Tired of turning under his covers, he decided to have a walk. Exiting silently the tent he was sharing with Welfor, Arcadio sat near the remaining ashes from the fire they had used to cook their diner. Suddenly he heard steps coming in his direction. He tensed, expecting to see some kind of beast coming, but instead saw Melissa approaching, seeming deep in thought.
''Oh, hello ! Couldn't sleep as well ?'' she asked.
''No.'' he replied, sitting back. ''I thought that perhaps getting some air would help me sleep, and think....''
She merely nodded, sitting beside him.
''So.... May I ask you what were you thinking about ?''
Arcadio kept silent, staring at the ashes.
''You don't have to tell me if you don't want to.'' she said softly.
''No, it's okay. I was just wondering what I was going to do after this war is over, if I get to see the end of it.''
''And what have you decided ?'' she asked.
''Nothing. I don't want to think about it yet.'' he said darkly.
''Aren't you going back to your home ?'' she asked innocently.
''Home ? I can't see any place I could call home.''
''Well, I thought you would go back to Karast.''
''Kurast'' Arcadio corrected, with a weak smile.
''Yes, that's it.''
''No.... As you well know, Kurast is likely to be in the same state than Tristram.'' Melissa opened her mouth, but Arcadio cut her ''No.... You don't have to tell me Kurast hasn't fallen. I heard rumors, even here, so far from the Eastern Empires. But in the end, it doesn't matter.'' he said.
''I... don't understand.'' Melissa said.
Arcadio sighed. ''What is Kurast for me ? I was found as a baby in the jungle not far from the city. My parents were probably killed by the demons that roamed the jungle, but for some reason I survived. That's what I was told by the priests who raised me, as a Paladin. In Kurast, most orphans are entrusted to the Church, and that's how I became a Paladin.''
''And do you regret it ?''
''No. I love being a Paladin, and be able to protect the innocent from Evil's destructive will, while serving the glory of the Light. The few friends I made amongst the other Paladin where killed, some even in the battle in Westmarch. You see, there is no reason for me to go back to Kurast.'' he concluded.
''I see.''
After a small pause, Arcadio dared to ask.
''What about you Melissa ? What are you planning to do after this war ?''
''I would love to go live in a small village, where I would know everyone by their names. I would open some kind of inn, and all travelers would be delighted by my cooking skills and hospitality. Then I would amaze them with my magic skills, and my inn would be known as 'The most comfortable inn in whole Sanctuary ! Isn't that a nice dream ?'' she asked grinning.
''Very idyllic indeed. I hope it becomes truth.'' he answered, smiling as well.
''It will, it will. Just give me time. You ought to join me too. I really would need a waiter to serve diner.''
''What ? A noble knight of Zakarum deserves more respect than that !'' said Arcadio, feigning to feel insulted.
''Ah ! See, you're already in a better mood.'' Melissa said. She then yawned and rubbed her tired eyes. ''Well, I would love to keep chatting, but I'm really tired now.''
''Yes , we should both go sleep. Hard work awaits us tomorrow.''
''Oh, I don't think so, no demons dare to attack us. They're all scared of my amazing fire spells ever since I burnt the Dark Woods, hehe.'' said Melissa arrogantly.
''Keep your amazing fire spells until we get to Andariel. Good night.'' said playfully Arcadio, walking back to his tent.
The next two days were no surprise for the four. Only walking, eating, walking, camping. In the middle of the fourth day, however, the journey finally ended, and they saw their destinations : the Monastery. They carefully approached the Monastery's front door, which was provocatively open. Kashya stopped them suddenly and turned.
''Before we enter, I would like to say that if you do not wish to enter, it is now or never.'' said the Rogue, eyeing them one by one.
''We will do this to the end.'' stated Welfor simply.
Arcadio and Melissa nodded in approval. Kashya looked at them, and Welfor could have sworn he saw a glimpse of respect in the woman's eyes. And they entered Andariel's stronghold, without looking back.
Lots of talking, and very little action, eh ? But don't worry, the next chapter will be full of fighting. I skipped the Tower quest, but I would like to tell you that the Countess from the game of Diablo II is inspired in a real historical person !! It is true, her name was Elizabeth Bathory, nicknamed Countess Dracula, for obvious reasons. She lived in the end of the fourteenth century, and was Countess of Transylvania. She became famous because of her sadistic behavior, for she used to torture her servants and then bathe in their blood to keep her own youth. Doesn't that sound like ''And so it came to pass, that the Countess, who once bathed in the rejuvenating blood of a hindred virgins, etc, etc....''. Furthermore, when the text says she was "buried alive" is probably a reference to her gruesome death. The Hungarian King, Matias heard of the Elizabeth's horrors and invaded her tower with his army. Horrified by what he saw, he ordered his soldiers to destroy the door to her bedroom and build a wall there, and he let her die of starvation there after telling her : "Stay there, die, and take the punishment for your horrible life. May God have mercy of your darkened soul !". Well I don't know if this really interests you, just a fun thing I discovered while studying... Anyway leave a review please, and tell me everything : expectations, comments, etc... Stay tuned for next chapter !
}