The End and The Beginning
His hands were covered in blood.
Black mud poured from the sky, but all he could do was run. He was fortunate enough to have these small periods of lucidity in his chaotic life. As he ran through the field he could feel the demon within him fighting to regain control. He didn’t have much time. He looked around and saw that he was near Tansar. His memory stirred as he began running to a place he knew would be perfect. He ran, not only from a hired assassin, but also from himself. He had to keep this baby safe. It would be his only chance…
***
A light touch across his cheek woke him. Edje turned and smiled; it may have cost him a small fortune, but it was worth it. Amadan Lugosz was far and away the most beautiful and intriguing woman he had ever known and was worth every gold coin he had paid Madame Alesh for the night with her. While he knew he could probably convince her to spend time with him away from the brothel he was afraid. For some reason he had feelings developing for this woman that were alien to him. Rather than let her know how he really felt, he chose to hide his feelings and enjoy what time he could spend with her. Looking down at her he asked himself the question that ran through his mind every time they were together. Whether it was a romp in the bedroom together or a fighting in a barroom brawl together Edje always wondered if he was in love with Amadan.
“Edje, you have that silly look on your face again. What are you thinking about?”
“Oh, nothing. Just wondering exactly how much coin you earn each month here at Alesh’s.”
“After her cut? Probably about half of a million gold coins.”
“That’s impressive.”
Letting out an audible sigh, he sunk deep into thought. Although he hated the fact that Amadan worked in the brothel, he couldn’t bring himself to ask her to quit. He felt unworthy of her.
“So lover, what’s on our plate today?”
Sinking deep into contemplation he answered, “I don’t know actually. I was actually thinking about going to go for a walk.”
Rising from the bed and he walked to a nearby chair where his smallclothes lay. Putting them on he reached for his trousers and tunic.
“Edje, are you sure you want to leave? You still have a few hours left of my time.”
Turning around he caught sight of Amadan’ lying languorously on the bed. She had taken the sheet off of her body, causing his blood to boil. He started to move towards the bed, allowing lust to become his guide. As he neared the bed however, he came to his senses and stepped back.
“I’m sure Amadan. Take the extra time and just rest.”
“Are you sure Edje? You say you’re sure, but your body says otherwise.”
Saying nothing he turned around and finished dressing. As he strode out the door his thoughts were full of Amadan. Her scent, the feel of her skin under his fingers, he even loved her scars. While few in number they were nonetheless part of her, and he loved every single one. Shaking his head Edje stepped out onto the streets of Makilor. Even without his weapons and armor the populace still gave the massive half-giant a large berth. It wasn’t every day that someone bested Keystone the vampire, once the King of Makilor. Running his fingers through his long red hair the massive humanoid walked towards Market Square. Walking down a side street of Makilor he began to reflect on his life. As an acolyte of Paghk he was in elite company. Paghk had only taken four others in his service. Thag, Keystone, Amadan, Lobo, and himself, each had proven their worthiness to serve the Lord of Brutality. He was one of Rourk Bearclaw’s greatest students; his ability in battle was paralleled only by a few. He had accomplished so very much in his lifetime, yet, for some reason he felt empty inside. A sudden jolt to his body broke him from his reverie. Stopping to look down to see what the cause of the interference was, Edje saw a sight he wasn’t in the mood for at the moment.
“Terry, what do you want? Don’t you have anything better to do than harass me?”
“Silence, sinner! Do not question the reasons of The Great Leader of the Holy Church!”
“Still bitter we killed Ran?
“That’s King Ran to you, you worthless parasite!”
“Whatever Terry, I’m not in the mood.”
Edje pushed Terry aside as he continued down his the street.
“Don’t think this is the last you’ll hear from me Edje!”
Turning his head slightly Edje raised his middle finger towards Terry and yelled back, “Why don’t you go stick your head in the privies?”
As he turned his head back to look where he was going another jolt hit him.
“What now?” Looking down to see what he had run into he saw a huddled mass of brown cloth lying face down in the muck. Reaching roughly over to the figure he flipped the offending person over and prepared to give them the scare of their life. As he prepared to scream a stream of obscenities at the person his voice was lost to him as he got a look at the offender. She had the most beautiful gray eyes he had ever seen in his life. Tearing his view away from those eyes he took in the rest of her face and something deep inside of him stirred, something more meaningful than he had shared with Amadan. All thoughts of Amadan disappeared from his mind.
“I’m sorry… I wasn’t looking where I was going.”
Reaching down he helped the woman onto her feet.
“No sir, please forgive me, I shouldn’t have been standing in the middle of the road like that,”
Edje was taken aback; her voice was like the sound of a choir singing songs of praise. It was probably the most beautiful sound he had ever heard.
“No, no, it’s my fault, I should watch where I’m going.” Looking closely at her he tried to remember if he had ever met her before. “I don’t think we’ve met, what’s your name miss?”
“I’m Alysia.”
“A pleasure to meet you Alysia. What were you doing that you were just standing in the middle of the road?”
“Nothing, just enjoying the day. It’s a wonderful day, a great day for a walk and a picnic.”
“I should warn you though, standing in the middle of the roadway like that isn’t safe. Something bad could happen to you.”
“You know sir, you are correct, after all I have heard that monsters in man form walk these streets. I don’t believe the stories, but the stories they tell of the Acolytes of Paghk are quite grisly. Especially about the whore Amadan and the murderous Edje.”
Edje paused
for a moment. “Murderous Edje?”
“Yes sir! They say he’s twelve feet tall, and he has
horns on his head and foot long fangs coming out of his mouth. They say that his body is covered in scars
and open sores as a sign of his dedication to his lord Paghk.”
“I see.”
“Forgive my manners sir, but I don’t think I caught your name.”
“My name is ummm… Xan, Xan Luna. A pleasure to meet you Miss Alysia.”
“Pleasure is all mine Sir Luna.”
Edje thought he noticed a glimmer in her eyes but ignored it, thinking it was his imagination getting the better of him. “So Miss Alysia, where are you off to?”
“Oh, just here and there.”
“Would you mind if I accompanied you? Perhaps I can accompany you to keep you safe from murderers and other folk. After all, a beautiful woman such as you would catch the eye of an unsavory figure.
Blushing slightly the Lady Alysia responded, “It would be a pleasure Sir Luna.”
Offering his arm to Alysia Edje was pleased when she hooked her arm through his, and they continued down the street.
***
Running
faster through the rain Edje neared the house of his mentor Xan. As he sped down the Great Western Road he
began to tire and quickly ducked into the quickling forest to hide from his
pursuer. The baby began to cry, but
Edje quickly quieted the babe with a song he had once learned in his youth in
Frostholt. Peering out into the
darkness Edje saw his pursuer run past him and towards Tansar. Holding his child close to him Edje could
feel the demon inside of him raging.
Doing his best to keep it in check Edje let his thoughts drift back to
the child’s mother.
***
“I had a wonderful time today milady. It was the most fun I’ve had in a long time.”
Alysia smiled up at him and leaned her head into his chest. “You’re unlike any man I’ve ever met Xan. You’re sweet, kind, attentive, and ever the gentlemen. A pity we don’t have more men like you in this world.”
Looking down in her eyes Edje decided that he had to take the chance. Cupping her chin in his hands Edje closed his eyes as he leaned down to kiss Alysia. As Edje leaned down to kiss her, he braced himself for the slap across the face that would be coming, but was shocked when he felt her lips meet his. Pulling her close to him the two of them stood in front of the Screaming Ogre Inn in each other’s arms locked in a passionate kiss. Pulling back from the kiss her smiled down at her.
“I’m afraid Alysia.”
“Of what Xan?”
“Of what I’m feeling. I’ve never felt like this before. You’re unlike anyone I’ve ever met. We have been together less than a day and yet I feel like I’ve known you for years. When I first saw you I thought was in love with you and now that we’ve spent a day together my feelings have deepened even more.”
“I don’t think that our running into each other was chance. I think for some reason our paths were meant to cross. I also, have never felt like this about anyone in my life. I believe that the Gods wished us to be together.”
Looking down into her eyes Edje saw nothing but love and tenderness. “Alysia…”
“Hush… let us enjoy this evening together.”
Alysia took Edje’s hand and led him into the Screaming Ogre Inn. Going up the stairs, she withdrew a key from a pocket and opened a very private room. Leading him inside she locked the door behind them and lit some candles. As she kissed him passionately, he pulled her back and looked her in the eyes.
“Alysia, I need to tell you something…”
“I know already,” she replied as she continued to kiss him passionately.
“I don’t think you do, it’s just that…”
“Edje, I know who you are,” she replied as she removed his tunic and continued to kiss him. Allowing himself to be lost in the moment Alysia blew out a candle and they sunk into bed together
As Edje awoke the next morning he wondered if he had dreamed the entire thing. Getting out of bed and opening a window he turned to look into the bed and saw her lying there. Her beautiful blonde hair lay strewn upon the pillow she lay on. Their lovemaking had been amazing; the feeling behind it was far beyond anything he had ever experienced before. Leaning down and he kissed her gently on the lips to wake her.
“Good morning Alysia.”
“Edje.” She said with a smile.
“Did you sleep well?”
“The best I’ve slept in ages love.”
He smiled as he brushed away a bit of hair from her face, thinking all the while, I could spend the rest of my life with this woman “Alysia, you have touched me in a way that I never thought possible. I never thought I could be happy ever since that day back in Frostholt. But when I’m with you…”
‘I feel the same way too Edje. But…”
A sad look crossed her face, as she looked down at the ground, unable to look Edje in the eyes.
“What is it Alysia?”
“Edje… I’m married…”
“You’re what?!?!?”
“I’m married.”
“To whom?”
“My full name is Countess Alysia De Lunarae”
“You’re a noblewoman? What were you doing all alone in the middle of Makilor?”
“I wanted to get away from my life for a while. Being a noble is far from exciting, and mine is a horrible experience. One I do not wish on anyone.”
Sighing sadly he responded. “I knew that it was too good to be true.” A tear began to roll down his cheek as a great sadness overtook him.
“Don’t cry Edje, at least we were lucky enough to have found each other and shared this one night together, there are some people who aren’t fortunate to ever share what we have shared, and for that we should be thankful.”
Edje looked her and while he tried to be angry with her, but he knew her words to be true. Leaning down he held her in his arms as they tried to enjoy their last moments together. She would return to her life as a nobleman’s wife while he would return to his life as an Acolyte of Paghk. Breaking the embrace he went to his trousers and withdrew a small hand-carved rose. “Alysia, I know what we’ll never be together like this again, but I would like you to have this. I carved it myself and as long as you possess it, our love will never die.”
Alysia smiled up at him as she accepted the token of affection from him. “I will forever keep this to remind me that this was more than a pleasant dream, that you and I shared something. While I have nothing to give to you in return I wish for you to never forget me. Keep me in your heart forever.”
He tried to speak, but couldn’t, all he could do was nod at her. Holding each other in a tender embrace once more they shared a loving kiss. Tears streaming down both their faces, their tears intermingled as they wished for this moment to never end.
***
Edje banged frantically on the door of the house, praying to all the Gods he could think of that Xan was home. As a lantern was lit within the house Edje thanked the Gods. The front door opened as Xan’s face was framed in the lantern light. “Edje, what are you doing here in the middle of the night? And with a crying babe in your arms? Quickly, come in, this is no weather for man or beast.”
***
Edje stood over the dead barbarian.
Time and again he had advised Rourk that the guard was not worthy of being the protector of the guild. Wiping the blood from his face he walked away, leaving the corpse on the ground. Walking away from the carnage he had just wrought, he walked back to Makilor with broad strides; his only focus was to unleash some of his pent-up rage. For almost a year now he had felt incomplete, he missed Alysia greatly and deep within his heart he hurt. Although he had slept with others since that time he felt nothing of the emotion that they had shared. As he neared the gates the gatekeepers began to look worried. Stopping him they told him to sheathe his weapons or not enter. With little care of his own well being the barbarian slammed his shattered spine of a frost giant into one of the gatekeeper’s gut as his lion marked blade quickly beheaded another. Walking through the carnage he had wrought he walked towards market square. The sight of the blood-covered half-giant walking down Market Street ensured him a wide berth. Walking into market square he noticed Amadan was there speaking to a little boy. Turning from her conversation she noticed that he had just walked into the square.
“Edje! I was wondering where you were.”
“What is it Amadan?”
“Is that any way to greet me Edje?” Amadan pressed her body up against his. “Maybe we can go back to my room to teach you some manners.” As she said this a glimmer of lust crossed her face.
“No. What do you want Amadan? It better be important, I’m not in the mood.”
Pulling away from him Amadan looked angry. “Be nice or I won’t tell you what I know.”
“Amadan,
just tell me already, I’m in no mood for your games.”
“Fine, be like that.” She replied as she playfully started to turn
to walk away.
Audibly growling he grabbed her quickly by the collar and pulled her up to his face, making sure to hold her assassinating hand in his other. “What do you know?”
“No need to be rough big boy.” Dropping her down to the pavement Edje growled again and started to walk away. “Edje, I’m sorry.” Angered at her impertinence he waved off her apology as he walked away. “Edje! Lady Alysia De Lunarae is dead.”
The news stopped dead in his tracks, as he couldn’t believe what he heard. At the mention of her name and her death he could feel the demonic rage within him beginning to churn and burn. Turning around to look at her he spoke through clenched teeth. “How, and why?”
“Her husband.”
“Why?”
“She gave birth to a son… with green eyes and flame colored hair”
He couldn’t believe what he had just heard. “He killed her for it?”
“Yes. Apparently Lord Lunarae has a jealous streak like no other you can imagine.”
“Where is he?”
“He’s at his estates close to the Lord Stark’s castle. He knows you’re the child’s father and will not give him up to you. He’s surrounded himself by some pretty dangerous people. It won’t be easy getting to him. The little boy also told me that the Lord Lunarae might be a lich and plans on sacrificing your son to his God.”
Turning around in anger he did not hear Amadan’s warning regarding the lich as he walked north. He ripped away the last barrier that stood between him and his demonic rage. Walking towards the northern gate Edje noticed Terry stood in front of the gate a blade in hand, looking ready for a fight.
“GET OUT OF MY WAY TERRY!”
“You piece of walking excrement, where do you think you’re going? We have unfinished business. But perhaps if you care to repent your sins by supporting The Church, I might consider letting you pass"”
With a loud roar Edje pulled his blade back readying to strike Terry who, in response, quickly uttered the mystical word pzar. “We’ll finish our business later. I know you have something more important to take care of. And if you ever tell anyone I helped a bootlicking rat munching cockroach as yourself, I will kill you. And heed the warning, he is a powerful lich.”
Shocked at the actions of the leader of the Church of Phaet, he could only nod as he left Makilor and headed towards the Lunarae estate. As he neared the estate the raging barbarian unleashed a primal roar that could be heard as far away as Tansar. Moving up to the gates he found the great thief Pe Ell standing in his way. As he neared the gates Pe Ell opened the gates and nodded at him. The pair who had spent much time together near the black oaks shared a quiet understanding and while Pe Ell was a remarkable fighter he had a grudging respect for the barbarian. Walking up the steps he saw a Black Knight standing guard at the doors. The Black Knight raised his pitch-black long sword in a salute to Edje as he reared back his blade to attack. Edje had fought the black knight a number of times in the past and knew how to quickly dispose of him. It was only a matter of moments before the knight was dispatched. Moving to open the door, he found it locked. Rearing his fist back, he slammed his massive fist into the door and it blew open. Walking into the castle didn’t need to search for the nobleman; he could smell the scent of fear from Lord Lunarae. Walking towards the great hall Edje was shocked to see that Lord Lunarae had somehow gotten Zeuxis the Lich and L’Cath the Demon together as his last line of defense. Ignoring his wounds he quickly leapt at the L’Cath, his rage being his only driving force. While his rage was a formidable weapon it was nothing compared to the abilities of the L’Cath. Falling to his knees the barbarian wondered if this would be where his long journey ended.
L’Cath’s claws ripped through his armor as he felt his strength ebb from his body. Reaching for his last bit of strength Edje brought up his blades for one last assault when a familiar voice screamed out, “You’re not dying today! If anyone’s going to kill that piece of scum, it’s going to be me!”
L’Cath’s attentions were drawn away from his prey for a moment and as Edje turned to see the source of the distraction and a weak smile crossed his bloodied lips. Like knights in shining armor his friends had come to his aid, even some who he didn’t think would help had come.
Standing in the great hall stood not one, not two, but the entire Legion. Cletus, the warrior healer; Gabriel, the thoughtful and creative cleric; Archer, one of the most formidable warriors to ever walk the land of Balric; the beautiful and kind Mulan; even Gaia, who he had alienated in his rage over the loss of his love Alysia stood there. To his surprise, standing alongside the Legion their darkness a fine contrast to the Legions light were his fellow Acolytes of Paghk. Thag the ultimate barbarian, second only to Grunt in skill and prowess, Lobo, the wolfish anti-paladin, and the lovely Amadan. And to his utter shock and surprise leading the group was none other than the self-righteous and pompous Terry, with his subordinate Lance continually kowtowing and bowing to his leader’s every whim.
Leaping into the fray first was Terry, quickly rescuing Edje from the demon L’Cath, followed shortly by Archer Lightbringer who leapt in to take on Zeuxis. The lines were quickly drawn as Mulan, Lance, and Gaia assisted Terry, and Lobo, Thag, and Amadan assisted Archer. Cletus was tossing spells out as quickly as he could, as was Gabriel; keeping their fellows alive as best they could. Edje could feel his rage fueling his body as his strength began to return to full. Rising to his feet, he ignored the fact that he was covered in his blood and the blood of his foes. Knowing that his compatriots would be able to handle the lich and the demon he opened the door and walked into Lord Lunarae’s chamber.
Storming into the room Edje saw Lord Lunarae standing with a two-handed flamberge in his hands. As the barbarian watched in horror Lord Lunarae’s visage changed into that of a lich. Shaking his head at his audacity Edje dropped his weapons and drew his wicked two handed axe, and with all of his strength hurled it towards Alysia’s murderer. Watching with a sense of completion he felt a great joy as his axe nearly split the treacherous lich in two. Retrieving his weapons he quickly began searching the room, He found his son wrapped in swaddling cloth lying upon an altar to some long lost deity. As he picked up his only son, he felt something that he had not felt since his time with Alysia and his demonic rage subsided. Edje held his son with great love and affection, but his reverie was broken as a drop of blood fell onto the swaddling from his blood soaked hair. Walking out of the room Edje saw that his friends had bested Lord Lunarae’s guardians.
A cold chill filled the room as a ghostly figured appeared in the air. Edje nearly came to tears as the ghostly figure of his lost Alysia appeared. “Edje, you must hurry, Lord Lunarae’s final line of defense is on their way here. He has hired professional assassins to kill you.”
Amadan laughed out loud at the ghost’s proclamation. “Sorry honey, I’m the best of the best, and I won’t let anyone get to Edje.”
“You can’t keep him and the child safe Amadan. Edje, please, keep our son safe… we’ll be together again one day, but please… keep our child safe, and above all else, be true to yourself.” The ghost floated towards Edje and kissed him gently as it disappeared.
Looking at his friends with a compassion and caring none had ever seen Edje spoke, “I must leave, I don’t know if we’ll ever meet again, but please, don’t ever forget me, and please forgive me for all the wrong I have done…”
Edje quickly ran out from the estates, his child in his arms as a rain began to fall. Unsure of where to go he merely ran. He ran past Zyankia, past the Black Oaks and headed towards Tansar…
***
“And that’s what happened…”
“Edje. I’m sorry to hear that this happened, is there anything I can do?”
“Yes, there is Xan… I don’t think it would be right to bring my son with me. Death stalks me and a demon is stirring in side of that I do not think I can control. I need you to raise my son.”
Nodding slightly Xan accepted the child into his arms.
“His name is Arinor. Alysia told me if she had a son she would want him to be named Arinor, so that will be his name.”
“It’s a fine name son. But where do you go now?”
“I don’t know. I need to get as far away from here as possible, to keep Arinor safe. I don’t know if I’ll ever return… even if I got away from the dangers stalking me I don’t know about the dangers within.”
“Aye, I remember.”
“Xan, I need you to promise me five things.”
“What are they Edje?”
“First, do not let Arinor be like me. Second, don’t allow him to be a barbarian, that path is only filled with dangers for him as my son; I believe that the unchecked rage needs to end with me. Third, treat him as your own and love him, as you once loved me. Also, I have never known you to lie, and I beg of you to never lie to my son. And finally, tell him not of me. If he someday finds out that you’re not his father, don’t tell him who I am. Allow him to find that out on his own.”
“I understand Edje. I promise you this. Muscova and I always wanted children, but we didn’t think it would be wise for a half-orc and an elf to mate.”
Smiling, Edje took his mentor’s hand in his and said, “I must be off, please remember what I told you. And Xan, I’m sorry, for what I did in the past.”
“No need Edje, you’re forgiven.
“Thank you Xan.”
With the knowledge that Arinor was safe he turned and fled into the night, leaving his son behind him and running, to where he didn’t know, all he knew was he needed to run.
***
Cletus Tudor walked the streets of Rac Semdar. Most of the lawmen in the city had fled when Sanaluth came. Cletus however, was not your normal lawman. He was one of the most powerful men in Entia. Few did not know his name and even fewer matched his prowess with a cat-o-nine tails or a heal spell. Walking around he did his best to try and purge Rac Semdar of the evil presence that hung over this once fine city. Striding north towards the temple of evil he felt Sanaluth’s aura of evil emanating from it. As the relatively young elf strode into the temple, ensuring to stay a good distance south of the altar where Sanaluth could always be found. As he looked around the temple he caught sight of someone huddled in a corner. As he neared the figure he could hear the figure weeping. Reaching out a comforting hand to the figure, he was ever wary of a trap. As Cletus’ hand touched the figure the figure looked up at the elf and the Legionnaire was shocked.
“Edje! What are you doing here? Where the hell have you been? It’s been over a year since anyone last saw you! Where’s your son?”
Edje said nothing, as he merely continued to blubber and cry. Cletus felt a presence enter the room and quickly looked to the southern entrance and saw the fiendish half-orc assassin Nakka step into the temple.
“What are you doing here, oh flea-bitten holy man?”
“My job you orcish slut. What are you here for?”
“I’m here, to kill that man.”
“You’re not touching him Nakka. You have to get past me first.”
“I thought you’d never ask Cletus.” The half-orc woman leapt at the elven templar, and as Cletus swing his whip at Nakka she quickly leapt over the cleric and landed at Edje’s feet. She raised her blade to strike the final blow to end the barbarian life when she noticed that he was blubbering and completely incoherent. Nakka laughed out loud at the pitiful sight. “This is the legendary Edje Swift? The man who bested Ninja? A man who they once counted to be on par with Thag? This is nothing more than a blubbering fool, not worth me dirtying my blade on. But I’ll definitely have some fun with him.”
The half-orc assassin grinned evilly as she kicked Edje hard in the face, sending his head lolling to the side. Nakka then kicked him hard in the stomach sending him sprawling to the ground. “Oooh.. This is fun.” A mischievous grin crossing her face she then placed a foot down upon Edje’s testicles and prepared to stomp.
As Nakka reared her foot down to crush Edje’s manhood literally, and figuratively, an intense pain ripped into her back. Turning around she saw Cletus standing behind her, his cat-o-nine tails ready to strike again. “You holy types are all the same! Always ruining my fun! Is that all you got?”
Cletus reared his weapon back to strike again as she tried to dodge, but to no avail, the elf’s cat-o-nine tails ripped into her again. Raising her blade to defend herself she thought she could best the elf, but a third well place assault by the templar was all he needed to fell the orc.
“Edje! Are you ok?” Edje merely continued to lose himself in his misery. “This is going to take some extreme measures.” Cletus grabbed him by the collar and pulled him up until he was face to face with him. “Is this how you honor Alysia? Is this how you honor Lene? Is this how you honor your son?”
The half-giant’s eyes flared to life at the mention of his dead sister and his dead lover. Cletus braced himself as Edje’s fists slammed into his chin and sent him flying across the temple. Cletus rubbed his jaw as he looked at Edje, “Well, that at least is the Edje I know. Now talk to me. What have you been doing for this past year?”
Coming to his senses he walked over to the elf and helped him to his feet. “I’ve been here. I figured the last place anyone would look for me would be here. Keystone brought me here once and I figured that no one comes here that often so I came here to hide from the world. And for the last year I’ve been thinking about my life. I have done so much wrong Cletus, I don’t know if I can repent for my sins.”
“I see. That whole ordeal messed you up didn’t it?”
Edje nodded in agreement.
“Edje, join me in prayer, perhaps the Gods can help us with this.”
Edje and Cletus knelt down side by side and opened their hearts and souls to the Gods. A long time passed as they both prayed. A sudden chill filled the room as an immortal presence drifted into the room. Edje and Cletus both rose to their feet and then quickly knelt in supplication to the unseen immortal presence.
A booming voice rang out, “I have heard your prayers and have come to answer them. Edje, redemption is not out of your grasp, but you have sinned greatly and to balance your ledger of the evil you have done, a great deed of good must be done.”
“I shall do anything great lord.”
“Anything is a great deal, are you sure you wish to Edje?”
“Positive.”
“Very well, your redemption lies to the north. We shall be watching”
Edje and Cletus looked to the north together. “You sure you want to help me Cletus? You don’t have to.”
“I’m your friend Edje, I won’t let you do this alone.”
“Very well Cletus. Shall we march bravely to our deaths?”
“We’re marching bravely Edje, but not to our deaths. I don’t plan on dying today.”
“If you say so good buddy. What’s the plan?”
Looking north the pair noticed a pair of vicious looking minions flanking Sanaluth. Cletus sunk deep into his own thought as he thought about what to do. “Tell you what, we’ll take out the minions first, then after that we’ll worry about Sanaluth.”
“That sounds good and all, but what happens when he decides to hit us? What then?”
Looking very annoyed at someone questioning his orders he said, “Just focus on the minions, we’ll take them out. I’ll take the one on the right; you take the one on the left. If Sanaluth starts hitting you, ignore it the best you can and just take out the minion above all else.”
“Gotcha, your left or my left?
Whapping Edje upside the head he responded, “It’s the same thing.”
Edje rubbed the back of his head as he glared at Cletus, "What? You can't take a joke?"
“No”
Edje smirked as Cletus got up and held out his hand. Grumbling to himself the barbarian rose to his feet and handed Cletus a Solar Flare. “These aren’t cheap you know?”
“Neither am I. Let’s get to work.”
Nodding towards each other the pair each quaffed a flare as they stormed into the northern recess of the temple. Entering Sanaluth’s lair they broke off in different directions. Leaping over a temple pew straight at one of Sanaluth’s minions the barbarian drew back his blades for the assault. The Legionnaire, hindered by his heavy robes chose to run around the pews and took the assault to the other minion. Elf and half-giant worked with a perfect precision, dodging attacks from the minions with ease and great skill. As the barbarian ripped into the minion’s body with his blades he kept a wary eye on Sanaluth, who was watching in amusement as he and Cletus battled his minions. As Edje wore the minion’s defenses down he noticed Sanaluth start to make his move.
“Cletus!!! Watch your back!”
Cletus didn’t even turn around as he circled the minion, keeping the minions’ body between him and Sanaluth. Cletus still fought the minion with great skill, all the while eying Sanaluth’s movements. The grip upon his cat-o-nine tails was getting difficult as his own blood covered his hands, mixing with the disgusting green blood, which poured forth from the wounds of the minion. Calling upon Phaet’s mercy Cletus’ wounds began to close and disappear. A strangled cry of pain caused both Sanaluth and his minion to pause as they both looked back to see Edje’s body on the ground and standing over Edje’s body was the other minion. Cackling insanely Sanaluth and his minion turned their attentions back to Cletus.
“NO! God damn it Edje!! Why did…”
Cletus’ words were cut short as he noticed that the minion on the other side of the room wasn’t moving. Looking down at Edje he noticed that Edje was still breathing. Rather than bring Sanaluth’s and his minion’s attention to this he continued his furious assault. A grim smile broke across his face as he saw the minion’s body fall hard to the ground, a gaping wound ripped in its chest. Edje leapt up from the ground and grinned at his old friend. Leaping high into the air the half-giant took aim and slammed down every ounce of his weight into Sanaluth’s back, knocking him down momentarily. With Sanaluth momentarily dazed Edje quickly assisted Cletus in his fight with the minion. Edje and Cletus worked in tandem on the minion with practiced precision. A particularly nasty set of attacks had the minion of Sanaluth stunned, but still on it’s feet. Looking at each other they nodded at each other. Half-Giant and Elf both reared their legs back and slammed their heavy boots into the chest of the minion, shattering it’s ribcage. The kick had bought the pair enough time to fall back as the corpse of the minion was sent hurtling back into Sanaluth, who was already getting up from Edje’s kick.
“Edje! Fall back!”
“Yes Sir!”
The pair fell back as Sanaluth roared impotently watching as the pair disappeared from his view. The pair continued to run until they came to a spot they knew would be safe from harm just outside the city. Panting they were both out of breath from the run. Taking a few moments to compose themselves they couldn’t help but laugh.
“Edje, I’m glad to see that you haven’t lost it in this year you’ve been missing.”
“You’re glad to see it? I’m bloody ecstatic! I’ve been living in Rac, fighting whatever fought me, but I didn’t think I still had what it took. I’m glad to see I was wrong.”
The pair laughed heartily as they fell to the ground to rest their weary bones. “Edje, you are aware that we’re out of the skillet and into the fire now I hope.”
A broad grin split his face as he replied, “Cletus, I don’t care if it was five of them, I’m just happy to see you. I’ve missed you and your pompousness.” Cletus looked annoyed as Edje continued, “I was just kidding, but I really did miss you. Maybe you can tell me how the rest of my friends fare?”
“No, I’m not telling you anything about them.” Cletus replied with an evil twinkle in his eyes.
“I guess that’s fair.” Edje sighed sadly.
Cletus shook his head as he pointed to the east with his cat-o-nine tails. Edje looked up to see a number of figures approaching. Jumping to his feet Edje said, “Cletus, get back to Makilor. Stay safe there, I’ll take care of these.”
Cletus kicked Edje’s feet out from under him. “Sit your ass down. You’re not fighting anyone. Even if you were healthy enough, I don’t think you could take them.”
Edje looked confused as the figures approached. As the figures came closer Edje realized why Cletus was not alarmed. Marching towards them was not a foe, but rather a small detachment of adventurers.
“Yoo-Hoo!!! Cletus, are you there?” A familiar voice echoed across the field.
Edje’s eyes welled with tears as he screamed across the field, “Gaia?”
“Edje? Oh My God!”
Gaia Quicksilver ran across the field straight into the waiting arms of Edje. “Gaia? What are you doing here? Who is that with you?”
“Edje, I think the question is what are you doing here and where have you been? But we’ll talk about that later. As for who is with me, it’s Mulan, Gabriel, Amadan, and Panther. Cletus sent us a missive that he needed help in Rac, but didn’t mention what it was, or that you were here.”
“Hey, we all need secrets,” Cletus interjected with a wry smile.
The rest of the party approached and were as shocked to see Edje as Gaia was. Hugs and handshakes were distributed as the party recovered from the shock of finding someone that they had counted as dead, alive and well. Amadan was the last, slinkily pressing herself against Edje whispering in his ear, “How about a quick one for old time’s sake?”
Edje rolled his eyes at Amadan. As he turned around to rest his wounds he caught a glimpse of Gaia looking relatively disappointed by the exchange. Edje took a mental note of this as he rested his bones with Cletus.
“Cletus, why did you call us here? I know it’s for a better reason than you finding Edje.”
“It’s simple Mulan. Edje and I have been charged with redeeming his soul.”
Amadan gagged as Gaia looked happy to hear the news.
“He doesn’t need redeeming,” interrupted Amadan.
Cletus ignored the assassin as he continued, “As I was saying, Edje is here to redeem his soul and Phaet has given him the chance, but a rather large roadblock disrupts his path.”
Mulan looked thoughtful, “If Edje truly wishes to redeem himself, then I suggest that the Legion do all we can to help him. Even if it means taking out Sanaluth himself, we’ll do it.”
“Exactly.”
“Hmm Cletus? What was that?”
“That’s what we have to do Mulan.”
“We have to do what?”
Gabriel stepped forward and said, “Mulan, I think what Cletus is trying to tell us is that Edje’s redemption lies before us, but we’ve got to eliminate Sanaluth first.”
Cletus nodded in acknowledgement.
“Oh bugger.”
“That what we said when we found out Mulan,” Edje replied with a broad grin.
“Edje, what are you grinning like a fool for?”
“At us, Mulan, I’m ecstatic to have you all here with me again! I’ve been alone for so long, I’d gladly walk into battle versus Shrike as long as you guys were there with me.”
Mulan shook her head as she muttered, “The more things change…”
A few hours passed and Cletus and Edje were ready for battle again. Protective spells were cast, prayers were made, and weapons were sharpened for the assault. As they walked towards Sanaluth’s lair Cletus outlined the plan.
“This is the way we’ll do this. Edje will take the hits. Swift, if anyone else gets hit I want you to rescue him or her right away. The second you are locked in battle with Sanaluth, I want you to unleash your rage. Gaia, Mulan, Panther, once Edje is locked into his rage I expect you to assist him. Gabriel, you and I do what we do best. Amadan, same with you.”
“Cletus, maybe I should take the hits? If Edje s going unleash his rage he’ll be an easier target for Sanaluth.”
“No Gaia, Edje must do this. Speaking of which, Edje, do you still have the ability to rage? Or did you forget how?” Edje nodded slightly. “Excellent. Everyone got that?”
“Gaia, Mulan, Panther, Edje hit. Cletus and Gabriel heal, I kill the Legionnaires?”
Cletus glared at Amadan in response to the snide remark. “I don’t think I’m even going to dignify that with a response.”
“Gods, you people need to relax some, come to the brothel, we’ll loosen you up, and that’s my personal guarantee.”
“Quiet Amadan. We’re getting close.”
As the party neared the lair Edje began to look around and his heart began to stir and feelings and regrets churned inside of him.
“We’re here. Are we ready?”
Edje wiped the tear away and nodded. As Cletus got ready to lead the group into battle against Sanaluth Edje spoke. “Cletus, hold on a moment.”
Cletus motioned for a stop and looked to Edje. “What is it? We’ve got to finish this before he regains the power to resurrect his minions.”
“I know Cletus. I just feel that I have some things to say.” Turning to Panther Edje put his arm on Panther’s shoulder and said, “Panther, you’ve been a staunch companion, while we never spoke much, I felt that I could rely on you at any time in battle.” Panther smiled as the half-giant turned to look at Gabriel, “We’ve had a great run haven’t we Gabe? It’s been amazing. You’ve been a true friend to me. Other than Cletus there’s not another healer in this world I’d want to have next to me” Gabriel wiped away a tear as the barbarian turned his back to him and looked at the small mirlad paladin. “Mulan… my dear sweet, odd friend. I’ll always remember you, and your ideals. And how true you were to me. Looking past my façade and knowing me for who I truly am.” Turning to the woman who had given him the news of his lover’s death he grinned, “Amadan, Amadan, Amadan. I thought I loved you once. I just realized that I did love you, but not in the way I first thought. You’re like a sister to me, and I’ll never forget you.” As the barbarian kissed her gently on the lips Cletus coughed loudly and Edje looked thoughtful as he neared the elf. “Cletus, you’re the best friend I’ve had. Always there for me, and I was always there for you, even if I was a little late at times.” The remark brought a chuckle from both as an inside joke was shared. Finally Edje turned to Gaia. Tears began to fill his eyes as he approached her. Putting his arm around her in an embrace Edje tried to speak, but the tears continued to flow. Once he composed himself he looked down at her. “Gaia, perhaps the only woman I loved, other than Alysia. A true friend you were to me, and our times I will cherish, even after my death. You alone hold a token that I personally carved. The only other person I ever gave one to is now dead. I hope you remember me forever and keep it near to you. Even if I don’t make it through today, I hope you know that I did love you, and I am sorry for everything that I did to you. I acted like a fool.”
Before any of his friends could say a word Edje broke into a run straight into Sanaluth’s chamber. As the group ran to catch up with him they heard a familiar battle cry roar across the city, “DIE YOU GOD DAMN SON OF A BITCH!!!” The group entered the room and found Edje locked in mortal combat with Sanaluth. Edje’s eyes glowed red with the rage of the barbarians flowing through his veins. Cletus and Gabriel quickly flanked the massive barbarian and began healing him as best they could. Gaia, Panther, and Mulan quickly stepped beside Edje and joined in battle, using the massive barbarian as a moving shield. Amadan carefully circled Sanaluth and carefully aimed her blade in between Sanaluth’s shoulder blades. The enraged and determined barbarian did not falter once as he and Sanaluth danced the dance of death. Seconds became minutes, and minutes became hours as they battled. Gabriel and Cletus had expended their mental energies more than once already, and the other warriors worried about the barbarian and his ability to keep up the reckless pace he had set. As Sanaluth began to worsen in condition the barbarian only pressed his attack even more. Sanaluth fell to his knees as Edje’s shattered spine of a frost giant slipped from his sweat and blood-soaked hands and Sanaluth quickly picked it up. The two combatants looked each other in the eyes; the barbarian’s eyes glowed red with rage while Sanaluth’s eyes glowed with evil. Edje struck the final blow against Sanaluth, but not before the man some called death personified plunged the barbarian’s own weapon deep into his stomach, puncturing armor, skin, bone, and internal organs. Edje gasped and pulled his blade back, striking Sanaluth once more, ensuring their victory.
Edje grinned evilly as he watched Sanaluth fall to the ground, the fire gone from his eyes. Edje then looked down and saw his weapon embedded deep inside of him. He touched the weapon, not believing it. He laughed in disbelief and as he said, “Bloody Hell…”he fell back to the ground, his life flowing from the wound. His friends ran to his side but a sudden glow stopped their progress. A beautiful being of pure light appeared above Edje’s body. Kneeling down beside the dying barbarian’s body a look of great concern crossed the being’s face.
“Edje. You have fought well and have proven yourself
worthy of redemption. Unfortunately,
while I may restore your life, I cannot restore your health. Your wound will be with you until the day
you die. An eternal reminder of the
sins of your past, carry it with you as a sign of your redemption. Edje your name has been cleansed and you
shall be welcome in my realm. Until
that day Edje Swift, you shall live. So
I say, so it shall be done.”
The figure exploded into a brilliant flash of light that rained down upon the half-giant’s prone body as his weapon was ripped out from his stomach. The wound began to close, but did not fully heal. Edje’s body became enveloped in the light as the light becoming too bright to look at. The rest of the party averted their eyes as a familiar feminine voice spoke, “Edje, I will be waiting for you…”
By the time the light subsided Edje stood alone in front of the party, his unholy armor taken from him, dressed in a white tunic and white trousers. Much of the hard edge that characterized him for much of his life was taken from him, and replaced with a kinder gentler look. Gaia was the first to approach Edje. She touched his cheek and he smiled, a true smile, not a smile marred by anger or spite, a true caring smile. Edje leaned forward and kissed Gaia on the forehead and picked up his shattered spine of a frost giant. As he turned away from her Edje turned to face the rest of the party. “I have done too much evil to return home with you, but know that I am with you and will be with you always. Although my sword arm will never be raised in violence again, know that I will always be there, in your hearts, and as long as you hold me, I shall be there.”
Edje turned around and walked away from the party. None tried to stop him, for they knew it was what was destined to be. While Edje had felled Sanaluth with their help, his wound would never allow him to achieve the level of success he had enjoyed. Watching Edje walk away, they knew they would never see him again, but it was not a sad event, but rather a joyous one, for the tormented soul they had known for so long had finally found his rest. Gaia’s eyes began to water as she reached into her pocket and touched Edje’s carved rose. Edje stopped as he walked away and turned to look at his friends. “Good bye my friends. I love you all.”
With that, Edje Swift, Acolyte of Paghk and murderer of thousands walked away from his life, his soul cleansed and his future unsure. And for the first time ever, he was free of his past and free to live his own life. Holding only a shattered spine of a frost giant in his hand Edje began the long path to a new life.
***
Gaia Quicksilver walked through a small, empty village just south of Gartome. The map Cletus had given her was rough, but she had found her way to Frostholt nonetheless. Walking to a small house, she sighed heavily as she noticed a large gravestone in front of the house. Walking up to the gravestone she studied in inscription and sighed. It was truly in Cletus’ handwriting and she began to cry. Pulling out the rose Edje had carved for her she kissed it gently and noticed lying, untouched, planted deep within the ground was Edje’s shattered spine of a frost giant, his weapon of choice for many years, and the very weapon that had ended his life as an adventurer. She wiped away her tears as she reached into her pocket and pulled out a second small hand-carved wooden rose. Gaia had found it the day of their assault on the Lunarae estate and sighed sadly. Placing it upon the top of the grave she said her final farewell to the half-giant she had called friend and pulled out her dagger and added a final line to the inscription.
Walking away from the grave Gaia was the last to ever see it, the village of Frostholt became a memory, and the name Edje Swift became a myth. Yet, if someone were to come across the grave marked with a small hand-carved wooden rose and a shattered spine of a Frost Giant they would find it read,
Here Lies:
Edje Swift
Acolyte of Paghk
Redeemed by Phaet
Father of Arinor
True Friend