The Crystal Empire, an enslaved nation in ancient times that was ruled by a tyrant. This is the story we were told, yet would you believe me if I said it was all lie orchestrated by our princesses to hide a truth not even they could bear?
We all know of King Sombra and his cruel regime over the Crystal Empire nearly one thousand years ago. The enslavement of thousands and the deaths of many more. Finally, how our benevolent princesses overthrew his tyranny and sent the once mighty people into a deep hibernation from the flow of time. This is common knowledge in the modern world of Equestria after its return, yet what if I showed you the truth that was hidden behind the veil of lies?
Notes* 1. Foremost I would like to thank my prereader Ryan Darling for taking the time to go over my work. 2. My inspiration for this was by the Ranger Apprentice series and SillyFillyStudios, Fall of the Empire, trailer. I take no credit for either of these, and I am not part of the latter's creation. 3. Artwork: Atohas from Deviantart 4. I used the Equestria and beyond map for a reference point. 5. The human tag relates to what would have been ponies in the Crystal Empire are instead humans. Everything else has been left unchanged.
This story retells the seven year war between the Crystal Empire of Old and the Principality of Equestria from the eyes of a young man named Darius Regillus, who fought under the banner of King Sombra the Honorable.
The Crystal Empire bordered two nations between the years 201 B.D and 57 F.D. (Before and Fall of Discord); The Gryphon Kingdoms to its west and the Principality of Equestria to its south. From the years 39 to 51 F.D., King Sombra had been allowing his people to steadily expand in the wild northern borders of Equestria. These areas included the vast Forsaken Forest and the River Willow.
The Gryphons, being long time trading partners of the Crystal Empire for the last fourty years, had shared similar cultural characteristics such as forced servitude of criminals and freedom of arms. Because of this they held no concern over the Empire's expansion southward. Their only response was that Sombra avoid the already colonized Eagle Peak Mountains that ran along the eastern border and that this expansion would not interfere with their countries' relationship.
The Principality, however still recovering from the after effects of Discord’s rule, grew to be hesitant at this expansion. The two monarchs of Equestria, The Solar Princess Celestia and the Lunar Princess, Luna, believed that Sombra was encroaching on their country in the idea that in its weakened state could be taken over.
As precautionary before relationships grew hostile, dignitaries were to sent to Sombra's court to curb the amount of colonists along the border. The only compromise Sombra could give was that he would attempt to regulate the colonization yet would be unable to fully interfere unless problems arose. He would not come between his people and their wishes to expand for fear that stagnation may occur. Incapable of coming to an agreement, many of the diplomats were recalled and only a few were left in order to send any new problematic events back to their princesses. As time elapsed so did the rapid influx of colonists of the empire as well as the two sisters anxiety of the budding situation.
Even before Sombra had united the human species in 201 B.D., at the age of thirty-six, the princesses didn't trust the centuries old human nor his kind. Being the weakest of the known civilized species, the humans relied on cunning and manipulation when it came to survival. They would never directly challenge a foe, but instead would use their intellect to draw them into an area of their choosing, corner them, and either defeat them with numbers or technology. When being endangered themselves they would fight like a cornered dog, only stopping when either their opponent lay dead or they themselves. The only difference now was that they were united and that made them far more dangerous.
Both sisters, doubtful that Sombra had plans other than just the annexing of unclaimed land so close to their border, agreed to enlist spies to help procure any and all knowledge of continued colonization.
Unbeknownst to the sisters their spies were not the most competent at espionage as previously believed. Due to Equestria still recovering and simulating towards peace; the majority of its foreign policies and tactics were rather lacking. Thanks to false information and militia movements that were sent back to the princesses; the two sisters placed more and more belief into the idea that war may be waged upon their kingdom.
The citizens of Equestria also frowned upon some of the cultural aspects of the empire. Nearly the entire population believed that servitude for crimes was too far a punishment, and that citizens bearing arms would only further cause death and mayhem, and because of this many were reluctant in interacting with the Empire. The ponies of Equestria had been virtually slaves under Discords reign and could not bare to see others be forced into servitude.
Nearing the end of the 45th year after the Fall of Discord, tensions began to rise along the border. Most of these conflicts were nothing more than petty arguments and shunning of villages. Before long though, small fights could be heard of when villages and towns attempted to trade amongst one another. Many of the Equestrian settlements did not enjoy seeing the forced labor that a few groups brought, and refused to even acknowledge their presence. A few occasions were heard of servants being freed with unexpected results.
The majority of the time individual servants actually refused to be freed due to their sentences being rather short and having families waiting for them; most sentences were between three months to a year and a lump sum was paid upon completion to the families. Many 'attempted rescues' ended up with nothing more than an individual being awakened in the dead of the night and forced into the freezing weather.
As the year progressed tensions soon became hostilities. A significant event in leading towards all out war was the raiding of a colonist caravan traveling towards the northern banks of the River Willow, resulting in the deaths of fifteen family, one hundred and three in all. While no one could pinpoint who committed the act, accusations flew between both nations. The humans crying out that this was the first blow of many that the Equestria would commit. Whilst the Equestrians argued that a group of bandits that stalked the Forsaken Forest were the murderers, and that the Empire should look to protecting its own people than making false assumptions. In an attempt to quell these hostilities for a time both countries rulers took measures to prevent any more travesties.
Sombra began to increase the militia security of his frontier and the penalties for committing acts against any and all people along with the crown. While Celestia forbade any transgression into claimed territory of the Crystal Empire unless given right to beforehand in order to maintain peace for the time being.
These policies worked for a time before an event that sparked fury into the hearts of the citizens of the Crystal Empire and their king.
On the eve of the Winter Solstice, which was the end of the calendar year in both countries, Princesses Celestia and Luna invited Sombra and part of his court – consisting of his adviser, Marcus Farthorn, and many of the political elite - to a party in the minor city of Trottingham to celebrate the birth of a new year and help relax the strains that the old one brought.
When the group of sixty arrived at the town hall on the edge of the city they were let into a large ballroom with around one hundred Equestrians along with their princesses. While it was a rather awkward situation at first both parties soon let go of the differences they had and began to greet one another. Hours seemed to fly by as the party was well into the night, and everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves in the celebrations. Nobles from both parties could be found dancing to the orchestra lead by Note Melody and Vince Scratch, conversing about different topics, or enjoying the winter flurry outside. While Celestia was attempting to persuade Sombra to some of her finest champagne and Luna mingled amongst everyone.
Everything went silent however, when a loud crack was heard as the doors to the hall were slammed open, and a bloody female messenger bearing the tabard of the Crystal Empire stumbled in. Eyes followed as she made her way across the floor to Sombra. Upon reaching him she shot Celestia a hateful glance before speaking,
“My lord, I bring terrible news. The villages of Tiller and Beit are now nothing more than ashes amidst the snow. They were attacked three nights ago by a group of Equestrian militia lead by a captain of the very city that you stand in, and twelve hundred and forty-five now lay dead at the hands of these murderers. To make matters even worse, four days after your departure two spies bearing the marks of this princess were caught in your office and chambers tearing through any and all documentations they could get their hooves on.” said the corporal.
A pin could have been heard as the words hung in the air. The two groups separated onto either sides of the room with looks of disgust and confusion. Many of which drew small blades from their jackets and uttered curses. Celestia was the first to speak,
“Hells be damned. We ordered him to take prisoners not slaughter them like animals! We were so close... if only we had a little more time.” Casting a glance back to her sister, who gave only a slight nod, Celestia turned back to and shot a glare directly at Sombra that would have terrified a lesser man. “Thou think thy will conquer our nation so easily, thou thought wrong. We’ll just have to contend with the fact that we can still end this war before it even starts.”
“What?! Celestia, explain yourself!” yelled Sombra. He did not get an answer however, for Celestia whipped out a dagger using her magic, stabbed him in the side of the his body, and sent him flying into a wall with an eruption of telekinesis, a sickening crack was heard upon impact. The few guards and nobles of Sombra's entourage stared in horror at their fallen king before striking up a defensive position against the crowd of armed Equestrians around them.
“With Sombra's death so will any fear that Equestria and her people will be subjectivated once again. Without the Crystal Empire's King the nation will spiral into chaos and any form of large scale military resistance will be nonexistent. We will not allow a threat to grow under our very eyes as it endangers our people. My sister and we never wanted this to happen, yet due to escalating hostilities this was our final option. We pray that this conflict will end quickly.” Celestia stated.
As she finished, chaos ensued the room. Bolts of magic were sent in the direction of the group killing twelve of the sixty before the group managed to barricade themselves in a side room. Huddled together with only minutes to formulate a plan the remaining nobles agreed that any form of retaliation would end in not only their deaths, but the destruction of the entire nation.
They needed someone of political skill to lead the Empire; that person was Marcus Farthorn. The best course of action would be to have half of the group stay and buy as much time as possible While the other twenty-four escaped through the windows behind them, flee thirty miles north, over the River Willow, and reach the safety of the city of Brimstone.
Once the plan had been agreed upon, twenty-four of nobles and guards surrounded the door in preparation for the Equestrians to come storming through. They knew that there was no chance of survival, but in their hearts they hoped that it would be enough to save their homes and families. With seconds remaining the closest window was broken and the other half fled into the cold flurry of winter's night.
Marcus was at the head of the group holding onto his old friends body. No one knew how long it took for the men and women left behind to be overwhelmed, only that their sacrifice would not be in vain. Before long though, dark shapes could be spotted behind the group in the blizzard. Ten of twenty-four turned around and stood their ground. Their shadows began to disappear amongst the weather, yet the screams of pain did not. The remaining fourteen pushed themselves for four hours on end while evading the Pegasi that flew overhead in search of them. Eventually the group reached the bridge that would allow them to cross the River Willow. From there it would be a ten minutes jog to Brimstone.
The group checked the skies for any Pegasi, yet either there were none or the blizzard was hiding them. They couldn't wait any longer though; the sounds of their pursuers echoing in the wind. Taking their chances, they fled across the bridge with all the speed they could muster.
As the group neared the midway point of the bridge the leading nobleman stopped and fell to his knees, his head slumped down, looking at something. When the group caught up they saw he had a spear through his chest before fifteen Pegasi descended from the sky and landed in front of them, cutting off their escape. In vain, five of Marcus's group fled back only to be cut down by ten Earth and Unicorn ponies that had caught up with them.
With no hope of escape the group surrounded Marcus in one last stand. The Royal guardsmen only laughed at their pitiful attempt before they charged, lances drawn. In a matter of seconds eight of the humans were slain, and before the remaining seven could retaliate bolts of magic and arrows soon found their marks. Marcus watched as his friends slumped to the ground around him before he himself found two arrows biting into his back and right leg. Unable to stand, he fell back into the icy river with Sombra's body.
The twenty-five Royal Guards watched as the two bodies collided with the icy water below. Knowing that Sombra was dead and his adviser soon to join him left to report that all targets had been eliminated.
Marcus's last thought to himself as he drifted down the freezing river was that of his family and what would become of them. Praying that his wife and two daughters would find safety from the coming conflict so they did not have to endure the horrors of war. However, before slipping into darkness he felt his numb body being pulled onto the cold bank of the river.
*
Celestia sat across from her sister as they finalized the preparations for the coming war on the carriage home from Trottingham, her mind in a conflict. She despised the fact that she had jsut condemned the lives of thousands to a gruesome death, but in her own heart it was a necessary price to pay for the long term safety of her nation and people. Her sister’s words, however, did not help to put her mind at ease.
“Tia, we believe that this hath been a grave mistake. Maybe, maybe there was another way.” Luna said but Celestia only shook her head.
“We cannot say for sure sister, but we will not risk the destruction and enslavement of our entire species. Mother raised us the way she did five hundred years ago so that we would protect those that could not defend themselves. We will not stand idly by for it to happen again. All we can hope now is that we can instill our forces in the Crystal Empire before any form of retribution can cause more death.” Celestia said with a drip of sadness in her voice.
“I pray that thou are right. Mother would be ashamed of us if we became exactly what we sought to prevent.” Luna remarked as they landed outside their snow covered castle.
“We as well. Come, a long day is ahead of us.” Celestia responded. The two sisters entered their warm home knowing full well that their lives were going to change forever.
Preparations for the conflict with the Crystal Empire had been set in motion a month ago. Propaganda campaigns and enlistment requests had been sent to all cities and settlements in Equestria. Training for the nation’s forty some thousand enlisted stallions and mares had begun or increased. Finally, invasion and defense plans had been laid out by the princesses or their four military generals: Earth Pony Tiber Stormhoof, Pegasuses Alexander and Hannibal Whitewing, and Unicorn Julius Caster.
The next day was chaotic to say the very least. Due to the drastic change in military plans everyone from the highest nobleman to the lowest servant had to be reassigned to different positions in and out of the castle. Celestia and Luna could hardly attempt to keep up, and had little chance to let alone breathe. The day went quick though, and soon the two sisters sat alone in their throne room, frazzled from the day’s events. They had expected as much and were glad for the much needed rest.
As they were resting on their thrones, a Pegasus entered the room bearing a small scroll with scarlet string. The Pegasus said that she found it outside the door to the palace, and that it must have been placed there sometime in the past hour. Curious, Celestia dismissed the mare and levitated the parchment and unraveled the string. She rolled open the scroll and read it to herself. Luna sat patiently awaiting for Celestia to finish only to jump when she saw her sister drop the scroll at her feet, staring at in fear. Luna immediately picked it up, noticed the message written in bold black ink, and began to read.
I do not understand why you butchered my subjects, or the reason for the inhumane betrayal of last night. But I will promise you and your sister this; I will sacrifice everything, even give my own life if needed, in order to protect my people.
All the known world believes you to be Gods that walk among men and never would dare rise against you. Yet, while cowards tremble before your might, we shall stand, and shall never fear the likes of you.
You believe yourselves to be so harmonic in your goals, yet you are blinded by your own ignorance. Children toying in powers that supersede us all combined.
Your people and this world alike will suffer from what you both have allowed to transpire. Even your own mother will rue the day she birthed you both. You will pay for your crimes, be it in the coming years or until time itself stands still.
Until the day we fall, we will stand defiant against your tyranny until our last breath. Before this is over, the marks of war will scar your lands, people, and all that you love.
This chapter begins with Darius enrolling in the military (Three months before the burning of the villages Tiller and Beit and the declaration of war between the Crystal Empire and the Principality of Equestria.), and retelling a portion of his history that elapses over seven years before the end of the prologue.
“So, Darius I've read your evaluation for your enlistment, and all I have to say is that we will be glad to have you should the need arise. From your family's past services and skills I believe having another Regillus amongst our ranks will do well. Your father and I went through much, and I believe his son will be able to hold the mantle his father set.” My army recruitment officer stated. His name was Halt Slovis and an old friend of my family.
We sat in a cool room at one of the many recruitment offices in the city of Whitehaven, which was a few leagues south of the capital. Whitehaven was a rather busy place this time of the year. Everyone, from the oldest man to the youngest child, were making ready for the long winter that would envelop this portion of the world for nearly half the year. The anxiety from the attack on a large caravan heading for the village of Beit still lay fresh in everyone's minds.
My family and I could hardly believe it when the news reached our town of Noveria. We all knew of the escalating tensions between the Empire and the Principality, yet it sounded as if it was a nightmare come to life. No one knew what to expect next. Some feared that war was soon to come, while others believed it was only a tale to further stretch the already strained tensions.
Before long though, requests of training enlistment were found in almost every settlement. It was asked that at least one member of each family have at least one years worth of professional army training. While my father, Jerald, had twenty-nine years of service; he was far too old at the age of sixty-one to go back into any form of combat. My mother, Nessa, would have been next in line to go, yet due to my brothers and I she had to stay. That left me, at the age of twenty, to carry on my fathers tradition of serving in the Ranger Corps.
Being the first born of the family my father committed much of his time to training me in hunting and survival in the wilderness. He put me through grueling exercises, survival training, and all around hel yet showed me more than I could ever have believed possible. How to survive and thrive off the barren cold of our northern home; to be able to hunt like a true predator and hide like its prey. Finally, to be patient in the face of any danger that threatened me or anyone that I cared for.
I remember starting training at the age of fourteen. It was the year 44 A.D., on October 20th, my brothers, Ostar and Andrevous, and I had just returned from exploring the forest of Arminas that surrounded our home. We were cleaning ourselves out by the well when our father came out. When he spotted us he walked over and said that he wanted to see me when I was done.
My brothers 'oohed' and laughed as my faced paled. I had no idea what I did and being a small child I of coursed assumed the worse. When I did eventually finish cleaning the dirt and grime off me, I reluctantly agreed when my father asked me to follow him.
As I walked alongside him quietly I realized he wasn't leading me back to the house but instead towards one of the many paths that weaved their way into the Arminas. My fear quickly was replaced by curiosity when my father guided me along one of the older trails. It was after an hour walk before we eventually reached a wide open glade, pile of old crates and target boards laid in the center. Before I could ask him what was going on he turned around and spoke to me.
“My son, I know that this may seem strange to you but do not worry, you're not in trouble,” I gave a healthy sigh of relief at that, “instead it's time for you to become a man.”
Of course I had no idea what in the world he was talking about but I knew better than to question him now.
”And what I mean by that is your going to learn the ways of the Ranger, just like I did when I was your age.” My father always told me that I would eventually continue the family's service of a Ranger just like he and his ancestors did since their founding around two hundred and sixty years ago.
Back then it just- it just seemed so soon that my childhood would end but there was nothing I could do.
“Do not be afraid Darius for knowing what I will teach you is a gift that only a few receive and even fewer do at such a young age. Knowledge comes at a price however, the training will not be easy, and during it I will no longer be your father, but your teacher,” he said with authority.
I hesitantly nodded in response.
“I know this is hard for you Darius; it was for me as well. I do this because should the day come when this country and our family is endangered, you will be able to protect them. Now return home, get some sleep, and meet me here at dawn. You have a long day ahead of you tomorrow.”
I nodded my head again and began the walk home, my mind swirling in thought. When I finally did get home I found my mother and brothers already in bed. I let out a yawn before slipping into bed myself. That night I found my father's words tugging at my dreams. I awoke the next day to find the eastern sun upon the horizon, shining its warm glow onto my face. I quickly got out of bed, put on my clothes, and headed to the clearing my father showed me the night before.
When I arrived I found my father sitting on a crate with an assortment of equipment laying before him, as I approached him, he spoke,
“Welcome to your new life Darius. In these next few years I will teach you the very life blood of being a Ranger. Before we begin I first want you to do is to tell me what these are.” I looked around and saw that it was just a bunch of items from when my dad was in the army. I started with the first piece on the left.
“This is a yew recurve bow, steel tipped arrows, broadsword and saxe knife, satchel, leather jerkin and legging, vambraces, and a wool cloak,” I calmly said.
“You are correct, but what are they?”
“I...I don't know...” As soon as I said this he jumped from his crate and looked at me dead in the eyes.
“These are the most essential tools that a Ranger needs, anything else he can find where he goes. When you grow older these are to be with you at all times. Now your first task is find breakfast.” At the word, “breakfast” I could feel my stomach rumble. Remembering a bush of blackberries and some mushrooms on the path while walking here I turned and jogged in their direction.
Now collecting berries, mushrooms, and a few roots may not be the most challenging of tasks, yet it is the most rewarding when on an empty stomach. It took me a good ten minutes to find a satisfying meal, and I collected whatever else there was and returned. My father didn't look very surprised to see what I had collected, living on the outskirts of a forest and having two brothers tended to help.
“With knowledge of nature and what she can provide one can live forever, yet she will not protect you from her the elements or predators. Out in the wild everyone and everything is fair game. Those that are weak will fall to the strong, and when nature decides to change one has to adapt or die. Your next task is to find or make protection and shelter.”
I put protection above shelter and remembered that I could make a fire with flint and granite. There was a small creek bed that my brothers and I played in that had both. I made my way through the forest until I reached said creek bed. After searching for a short time I managed to find a sizable chunk of granite and a small flint head before I began the trek back to campe. Along the way I found a good deal of logs and branches I could use as fuel and a structure for my shelter.
Setting up the camp was a tedious task. After making a small fire pit I returned for the logs and branches and began setting up my shelter. It was a rather pitiful thing, but it would be better than sleeping out on the ground where rain and animals could reach me. Next up was laying and preparing the fire pit. This certainly wasn't as bad as the shelter, yet it was time consuming; after the first eight hours I could feel my calluses getting calluses. It was nearly nightfall by the time I had completed my camp.
When I had completed everything my dad said that he tell my brothers what was happening and would return in the morning. With nothing left to do i laid inside my small poorly yet stable shelter with a crackling fire outside; my mind cluttered with thoughts. I had no idea what was in store for me other than my life was about to change drastically. Soon enough though, I found myself slipping into deep sleep.
For the next three months my father taught me everything that could be found in the world around me. From edible and poisonous plants and how to live off the land, utilizing everything that I could find. I would occasionally be allowed to return home but not for long. It was when winter finally came in late October that things changed one morning.
Instead of my normal morning exercises of hiking and gathering my father had me pack all of my essentials before making me follow on a day long jog eastward towards the Spine Mountains. Most of the trip was relatively quite other than my legs and spleen mentally screaming at me that they were going to explode. It wasn't until late evening that we eventually reached a small cabin that was nestled against one the many cliff walls of the mountain.
As I laid, exhausted, on one of the two beds my father finally spoke. “You have learned much Darius, and now it is time to see how well you can survive in the cold embrace of winter. You and I will be staying here for the next six months. Periodically I will return home to check on your mother and brothers, yet you are to remain here. I will teach you how to hunt, trap, and ultimately survive when there is nothing but barren rock or snow.” That very next day he took me outside and had me begin practicing with my recurve bow. He told me that I would get a longbow like his when I turned eighteen, but until that time I would use the recurve for it being far easier to use.
For four hours each and every day during the winter I would be practicing archery. When I wasn't I would either be learning how to track, hunt without being seen, or make traps. Each day my father recited a code that the Rangers taught to all that joined their ranks followed.
“A man practices until he gets it right. A Ranger practices until he cannot get it wrong.”
I will never forget the day I had my first successful hunt. It was early December and my food stocks were getting low. My dad had returned home for the next three days and I was left to fend for myself. While I could have checked my traps for any small game, I thought I might try my hand at hunting something larger. I grabbed my bow, winter cloak, and jacket before heading out to the waterfall a mile away from the cabin.
Soon enough I heard the steady beat of water on rock before I carefully hid myself near a thicket of bushes. Quietly I began to skirt my way around thicket, making sure to make as little noise as possible.
When I finally managed to see the waterfall and frozen pool bellow it I found two bucks standing each other off. Carefully I went into a crouching position, nocked an arrow, and drew my bow back. I knew that I would never have been able to successfully killed both so I steadied my aim right above the buck's shoulder. I let the arrow loose and watched as it connected with perfect precision. The deer drew its last breathe before it even hit the ground while the other shot off in the other direction.
A few seconds of silence passed before I jumped out of my hiding spot in a pure fit of joy. I couldn't believe all that practice finally paid off. After a minute or so of jumping around like an idiot, I pulled out my knife and went to work on scavenging as much as I could from the buck. The look of my dad's face when he walked into the cabin and saw both of my trophies, the antlers and a new deer skin blanket, was priceless.
As winter faded into spring I found myself eager to return home yet disheartened that I would have to wait another year before returning. Four days before the start of May my father left me saying that he had to prepare a few things on my return, and that I could return home on the first. Curios as to what my father planned the few days seemed to fly by. On the first I packed up the cabin, my things, and began the journey home.
When I arrived at my families door I heard a whine coming from behind the house. Bewildered that pony would be in Noveria, let alone my house, I investigated. When I entered the backyard I found my father grooming a horse that did resemble a pony yet was slightly bigger and far less less colorful. My father spotted me as I approached, a smile on his face.
“Well Darius, this is what I returned home for. Now I know this may be rather strange yet Brin here is not any species of horse that lives on this continent. His breed is from across the Antlertic Ocean from a country that does not know magic like what we have here. I got him from an old friend of mine who is a breeder for the Rangers. While he may not be able to speak he still intelligent, loyal, and may form a special bond with those he cares about. Come, try and ride him.”
I looked back and forth between Brin and my father. Brin had a chocolate coat and mane, his blue eyes looking back into mine. I took a hold of his reins and mounted him, yet not a second later I found myself spitting up dirt on my back. I heard my father burst out laughing and felt Brin nudging his head into my side.
“Hahaha... now out of everything, that was what I was looking foreword to the most. Try again, maybe you did something wrong.” Shaking the remaining dirt off myself and getting up I tried three more times; only to find myself back in my original position.
“I think he hates me...” I said with aggravation in my voice.
“Here, let me show you how it's done.” My father walked over and said into Brin's ear, “will you please?” He then mounted him, and Brin began to canter around me.
“Wha- how- oh I give up,” I said while throwing my hands up in the air.
“You see Darius, Brin here is again no ordinary horse. His species will only listen if you say a special phrase unique to each one. Here try it this time.” As my father dismounted and handed the reins to me again.
“Well here goes nothing. Will you please, Brin?” I then mounted him for the fifth time with my eyes close, preparing for the pain of falling back into my indent on the ground.
After a few seconds I opened my eyes in surprise, Brin was standing still. I pulled the reins slightly towards me, making him move forward. Surprisingly enough he did as I commanded and I found myself galloping around my father.
“He seems to have taken a liking to you. A Ranger's horse will protect him and make sure he never falls from his back. He will protect and love him as long as the Ranger does the same.” I laughed as I enjoyed the moment. My father smiled in approval while Brin whinnied in what I thought was laughter as well.
As the days turned into months and months into years, my father continued to train me in all that he knew. My relationship with Brin growing stronger and stronger. Eventually I grew to understand what he said Brin would become; a true companion and friend.
My life seemed to be perfect as the years past. While my training was difficult I grew to love it. Each day a new experience and adventure. Eventually I found it being my eighteenth birthday and my father said that my training was at an end. I remember two things he told me when my first started in that forest grove all those years ago that I will never forget.
“The old and the rich start wars for greed and power, but it is the young and foolish that fight them for honor and glory.” and, “In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons. I want you to face whatever comes in the following years with strength and courage, for no matter what, I want you to bury me in this very clearing.” My father always appeared to be broken by something in his past, yet because of it it forged him into what he is today.
When I turned nineteen, in mid-October, a Wyvern attacked Noveria. It managed to destroy a quarter of the village before being driven off. A group of thirty was sent to end the threat, but only seven returned. They said that it wasn't just one but two fully grown adults with a nest in the caves alongside the mountain range to the east.
The day after the group returned, my father and I, fearing for the safety of our family and home, went after the creatures. He said that this would be the first of many tests I was too face in my life yet he would be there to guide me. Along the journey he showed me in rather crude drawings the weak points in their armor and that the wings were made of weak bone and sinew. We arrived on the second night of the trip and set camp. Before we turned in for the night he had me set a net trap outside the cave mouth so that at least one of the Wyverns would be grounded when we ambushed them tomorrow.
I awoke in the wee hours of morning to find my father hiding behind some foliage silently watching the cave entrance. I fed Brin and grabbed my armor, longbow, which I began using a year prior, and a few dozen arrows, once I had equipped everything I joined my father. He didn't look at me as I sat beside him, just nodded his head towards the mouth of the cave. As I followed his gaze I saw shadows starting to grow in the background of the tunnel. I grabbed an arrow and knocked it; my father did the same and raised his open hand that told me to wait.
The first to appear was the male. The beast let out a deep roar before leaving the cave in order to stretch its wings, it never got the chance however. The wire had been sprung and a net with small lead balls fell, wrapped around its body, and caused him to come crashing down onto the rocks about thirty feet from us. Before it could react my father clenched his fist. I aimed and let the arrow loose, it flew in wind before penetrating its soft throat.
Before I could shoot again I saw two arrows fly past me and pierce both of the eyes. Now blinded and bleeding to death the creature let out an anguished cry for help, but it life was ended as my father drew his broadsword, bolted from our hiding place, and plunged the steel blade deep into the Wyvern's skull.
Not a moment later the female emerged from the nest. It spotted my dad, yet it soon found two arrows biting into the side of its armored head. In pure rage it struck out at him. He reflexively dodged the strike, sunk his blade into the shoulder before using the momentum to fling himself onto its back. Leaving the blade in the shoulder he drew his own saxe knife before hacking off both wings of the flailing Wyvern. The beast reared up in pain sending my father rolling to the ground. It towered over him, but in standing up it had sealed its fate. As soon as it stood, it found one arrow after another embedding themselves into the soft scales that covered the female's heart. It let out one last cry before slamming into ground next to its mate.
Wiping the few beads of sweat from my forehead I realized my father wasn't getting up. In fright I scrambled onto my feet before running over to him. As I went to try and find what was wrong with him, his eyes snapped open and he gave a few ragged coughs. He laid there for a little bit before I slowly helped him get to his feet.
He rolled his shoulder in pain as he waved me off. “I'm fine. Just a little too old to be doing this.” He looked back to the corpses.”Remember this day for it is your first of tasting what true fear and death men blindly throw themselves into. It is not something to preach glory and honor for but pity and remorse. If this war is to come to pass then you will be forced to live with the memories of each life you take. No man or woman should have to kill another, yet we are forced to thanks to the ignorance and stupidity of individuals. Be merciful to those that you can and quickly end those that you cannot.”
I looked into his eyes and saw the coldness that resonated within them, yet underneath them I saw sadness like never before. He was a man that harbored so much remorse and could do nothing about it. His face still haunts my to this day. In silence we then set fire to the Wyverns' nest and left.
When we returned to Noveria the people cheered for us. My father walked on through the crowds not stopping to bask in their praises; he just held his head forward and continued home. I followed shortly behind, a few of my friends surrounding me and shooting me questions one after another.
“How did you do it Darius!?”
“I bet you killed them single-handedly!”
“What was it like? The adrenaline and the satisfaction!”
My father's words striking true to their meaning, they had no idea what it felt like. I still recall the cries and iron smell of blood. The fear and anger in their eyes. They may be only animals, but they are still living breathing creatures. I excused myself, telling them that I needed rest and quickly went home.
Now as I sit across Halt, I recall each memory from the my early days of training to slaying the Wyverns. I understood why my father had trained me the way he did, I would either kill or be killed. I knew that there was probably so much more in my future, possibly even my own. I paled at the thought of it.
“You alright Darius? You look like you've just seen a ghost.” Halt asked me.
“It's nothing Halt. Just recalling a few old memories and things father said to me.” I responded.
“Ahhh, Jerald and I were practically brothers during Forbidden Wars to the north. It was... terrifying to say the least. We were company of of fifteen thousand, five hundred being Rangers, along with a brigade of three thousand griffin sent to the northern border to make sure any of these... creatures did not venture and infest the lands to the south. We were rotated in and out for twenty-seven years before they just stopped coming. No one knows why. We were just told to never travel north past Gorgonzola after the main army of ten thousand completely disappeared in the wastes.” Halt recalled while shaking his head.
I remember asking my father many years ago of his war stories; he always said that none of us should have to know what he went through and that sometimes history should be forgotten.
“Your father knows best though. He was one of the two captains in the entire Ranger Corps, he lead two and hundred and fifty men and women. When the war was over he had only lost forty of his soldiers; I can't say the same for the other company though, over two hundred dead or missing, along with their captain.” I really wanted to ask what happened during the war, but the look on Halt's depressed face made me otherwise.
“I think I saw Captain Tiberius wandering outside the castle a month after that.” He whispered. “Anyway, King Sombra himself presented Jerald with a Silver Star in front of the entire corps. The man was a hero. He practically saved both armies and is probably the only reason why we're even here right now.”
I let the words digest at what I had just learned. I remember reading about the Forbidden War when I was still in school. It was a rather vague book, but there was something about it that I could never get enough information about. The main concept I remember from it was that there was an ancient city that one could find all the different sentient species of the world. From humans, griffins, centaurs, ponies, and dozens more. One day though, something happened, many believed a magical explosion ripped through the city caused by some unknown power they found. Others speculate that a disease infected everyone that was brought from the northern ocean of Antlertic. The one thing that is known is that every single being there were turned into monsters; each different specie fighting the rest.
Only a month after whatever caused the outbreak did the dead and the dieing rise from the streets. They say that you could still see the pain and suffering in their eyes. The different species still fought one another, even amidst the walking corpses. Eventually the fighting spread, and entered both the Griffin Kingdoms and the Crystal Empire. In response the Griffin High King, Tathar Longbeak, and King Sombra launched a counter offensive. That was when they sent my father and the armies. To this day both countries or at least their people do not know what caused the war, just that it ended suddenly twenty-seven years later.
“Well Darius, I have all the paperwork filled out. Recruits will be sent to their respective Corps in week, so you will need to be back in Whitehaven quickly. I suggest returning home and saying goodbye to your family. Thankfully being in the Ranger's you'll be immediately placed in a professional regiment and squad. If we're all lucky this will all blow over soon enough but it can never hurt to be safe. Who knows when you'll be able to see them again. I didn't see mine for nine years before I was rotated out,” Halt said as he led me out the door. The thought of not seeing my family for nine years struck me but I really didn't know what to say.
“I'll see you in a weeks time Darius. If I don't, remember what your father has taught you. It will be invaluable for the months to come.”
“Thank you for everything Halt,” I said while putting aside the thought.
“It was nothing Darius. If you ever need anything you can find me here.” We shook hands before I mounted Brin and began the journey home just as the snow was starting to fall.
I felt the cold begin to creep into the confines of my cloak as I wrapped it tighter around me. Even though winter in the in the mountains was something I always despised, I could always find some form of beauty in it; the wind that whipped around my head or the touch of snow in my palm. Brin, however, only shook his head in displeasure. He always enjoyed complaining at any chance he got.
I patted him on the side as he walked down the road before thinking about how long Halt said he was gone from home, how long until he saw his family, and that he had feared that he would never be able to hug his wife again or watch his kids grow.
My mind began to contemplate if I would ever see my family again in the coming years. I recalled the memories of my childhood and family; the warm rays of summer, and playing with my brothers in the leaves of fall. The soft voice of my mother, or the quick whip of her hand on my head. Years that seemed to have flown before my eyes.
I chuckled at the thought of how much trouble we got into as kids, always meddling in something we were told not too. The worst was when I was around ten. We were playing in a small ravine with a river going through it, and Andrevous thought he saw a catfish. A sane individual would have let the thought pass by but no; he had to jump off the side and attempt to catch it. Ostar and I nearly died of fright thinking our brother had just went and killed himself over a fish, but when he burst from the water with a four foot-long catfish we could only hang our jaws in amazement; that was until it knocked him back into the water with a wap of its tail.
Those fifteen minutes were probably the most hectic of my young life. Ostar and I looked at each other before following our brother into the river. Somehow after wrestling with the catfish for what felt like hours the three of us managed to get it ashore. The look on mom's face when we walked in with that catfish soaking wet and cut up with the biggest grins on our faces was priceless; we cringed at the amount of scolding, but the taste of cooked fish that night was worth it.
Andrevous was always the hard head in the family, taking the toughest of chores and grinding through work. He was certainly the biggest of us, being at the height of six foot five and barrel chested at the age of nineteen. His red hair, beard, and fair skin that came from my mother's side of the family also didn't help the fact that he stuck out like a sore thumb in crowds.
While his deep boisterous voice and physical demeanor normally made people shy away from him, he actually had a very kind heart. Never once did he allow Ostar or myself get into trouble if he could help it; he always was the first to take the blame or punishment for those he cared about.
Even though he cared deeply about our family, that didn't stop him from attempting to prank the two of us. It took us two weeks to remove the egg shells from our beds from one of his, “harmless pranks”. He always enjoyed tinkering with anything he could get his hands on; from farm tools to a catapult. His dream was to work for the Mason Engineers that help create Crystallum and many of the major cities in the Empire.
Ostar was the youngest of us being at the age of eighteen yet by far the genius in the family when it came to scientific innovation. He was five foot seven and with chestnut hair. On many occasions he managed to use his quick wits and calm voice to keep us out of trouble, yet neither Andrevous or I could ever beat him in an argument.
He could always be found experimenting with chemicals and potions that no one in the family could hope of understanding. I remember the day that he received a response from a letter he sent to Lorvard University in Crystállum about a formula that may be able to counteract magic from the head alchemist, Martin Boyle, asking for him to come and explain what he had done. Never before had I seen Ostar so excited in my life. If I remember correctly he would be leaving for Crystállum this very week.
Out of my two brothers I considered myself the middle man. I was five foot eleven with the same characteristics of my father: broad shoulders, chestnut hair, and beard. While my brothers beat me in brain and brawn, I outmatched them in agility and strategy. I had an unfair advantage though, but I wasn't complaining.
My train of thought was interrupted as Brin threw his head back and whined, telling me that there was something ahead of us.
I knew that it was impossible for us to have reached Noveria for it was another four hours away. When I looked to where Brin was heading to I saw a dark shape lying in the snow. The outline was that of a female human. As we neared I saw a small pool of blood around her, small droplets littered the ground around and away from her. I immediately jumped off Brin, grabbed my satchel, and ran over to her.
On closer inspection she had a stab wound penetrating through the abdomen and her nose was broken. I grabbed a linen bandage, stitching kit, and basil from my bag before going to work on the stomach wound. Thankfully it wasn't as deep as I feared and nothing major was damaged. I began cleaning up the around the cut before applying the basil. After waiting a few minutes I began stitching up the wound, while tedious and not nearly as good as most doctors, it would certainly help in keeping her alive. When the stitching was finished I wrapped the bandage around her body a few times before tying it off.
Leaving my equipment I moved up to see if I could fix her nose. The blood had clotted and she was no longer bleeding profusely. I grabbed the nose and was about to break it back into place, but before I could I felt the cool touch of steel resting on my throat.
“Come back to finish the job?” 'Cough', “Well I won't go without one last fight,” she said as her eyes opened, and slowly pushed me back with the knife. “Now before I cut your throat, mind telling me why you attacked a courier of the king?” she said with a delicate yet deadly edge in her voice.
“Well I don't think a bandit or thief would be patching up a wound they inflicted now would they?” When I finished, she looked down, noticed the tear in her tunic, and the bandage around her stomach.
“I guess you're right by that observation, but before I let my guard down would you explain why you helped me?
“From the situation you're in, I doubt that you'll believe anything I have to say, but I am in no position to argue. My name is Darius Regillus, my father, Jerald Regillus, served in the Ranger Corps for twenty-seven years, and I trained under him personally. As to why I helped you is due to the fact that someone bleeding in a snowbank is not something that I'd normally pass by.” She eyed me with hesitation for a few seconds before sheathing her knife and attempting to stand, only to fall back into the snow and clutch her wound.
“Ahh!... I guess, Darius, if you wanted me dead I would be by now. My name is Andreia Ilsim, and I'm making my way back to Crystállum before I was ambushed by group of bandits. I managed to drive them away, but I don't know for how long. When I felt something move across my body I expected them to have returned, so when I felt it move up to my face... well you know the story from there.” Andreia turned her head as she finished, obviously contemplating what she just about did.
“Well Andreia we still have the issue of your nose.” I said while pulling out my knife and handing her the leather hilt to bite on.
“I've had worse, certainly doesn't help with courting.”
“Oh I bet you're a pretty enough under all that blood and grime” I said with a chuckle.
“Wise guy huh? Just fix it before I begin to regret putting the knife away.” She then put the leather handle in her mouth, bit down, and closed her eyes. I shook my head before gripping her nose.
“Alright, three...two...” I twisted my wrist, and broke her nose back into place. Andreia winced and a tear or two fell from the eyes. After letting the pain fade for a minute, she spat out the knife and looked at me with a glare that could kill.
“I've known you for ten minutes and I already hate you.”
“You'll live, besides you should be glad I found you.”
“That may be so, but if I ever get the chance I'll get you back for that.” I smirked at the prospect.
“Until then I have to get you to someplace warm and soon; we still have a four hour ride. Plus you can't walk, and the extra weight on Brin will slow him down.” I heard a snort behind me.
“Alright, but if either of you two drop me then...”
“You'll be fine.” Before she could complain I picked her up and placed her in Brin's saddle along with my satchel.
Just before I could mount Brin, I felt something speed past my head. Reflexively I drew my broadsword and spun my body around. Seconds later I heard a multitude of cries erupt from the treeline in front of me. Five men came charging out, armed with nothing more than spears and cloth armor. I steadied myself into a defensive position and weighted my body so that I was prepared for whatever was thrown at me, the crisp snow crunching underneath my boot.
Before they ran even fifteen feet I threw one of my knives that embedded itself into the leading man's heart dropping him dead. The first one to reach me struck out with a poorly aimed jab at my chest. I deflected the spear, grabbed his head, and drove my knee into his chin. The next two were cautious and attempted to flank me. The man in front was first to strike. I sidestepped and redirected the spear so that it would be driven into the other bandit behind me; I could see the horror in the man's eyes as he sunk the spear into his companion's stomach. With no weapon in his hand I slashed the back of his left knee that sent him sprawling to the ground in agony.
With a quick twist of my body I turned, and found the final bandit who could have been no older than fifteen shaking in fear, his spear raised in fright. I walked up to him, and smashed the rusty iron tip off with a swing of the flat of my blade. Immediately following with the steel point against his throat; his pupils shrunk as I stared into them.
I could see my reflection in his eyes, the amount of desolate coldness I saw that emitted from my own reminded me of my father, his words circling in my mind. I stood there for what felt like an age contemplating the power that I held in my hand; the power of life or death. Such an easy action, yet one that could break a man's very soul, eventually I spoke.
“I do not know who you are, your deeds, or anything that you may cause to come to pass. I can though, easily enough end your life with a simple flick of my wrist and without a second thought. Before I make my choice however, where are your parents?” The boy shakily pointed to the man that was nursing his leg and watching us both with worry in his eyes.
“... It is those less fortunate that should suffer for the greed and pride of the cruel. In a world that we all strive and dream for a son should bury his father, but in the world that we live in it seems that the father buries his son. I will not force that burden onto any if I have the choice, and I expect you to do the same if given the decision. No one should have blood on their hands that never should have been spilt.”
I sheathed my sword and made my way over to Brin and Andreia, the latter of which held a look of sorrow. Brin nudged my shoulder as I looked back; the boy was being held by his father, both of which were crying. I let the sight sink into my heart before mounting Brin.
“Darius, are you going to be alright?” Andreia asked me. I didn’t give her a response. My only action was that of pulling out a small bag and placing into it a few silver coins, bandages, and some healing herbs. I tightened the bag before turning Brin around and dropped it by their feet; the father looked up at me and gave a teary smile. My face remained emotionless as I turned away, and told Brin to continue walking.
The ride home was made in silence. Andreia didn't ask say anything more and eventually fell asleep to the steady pace of Brin walking; which left me alone with my thoughts.
'We are not even at war yet we still suffer. How can I kill my own people that are forced to crime thanks to the Equestrians? If things continue to grow worse, then we may not even be fighting for our country or homes but instead for our own survival. No, not even their princesses would allow things to escalate that far or at least I hope.' I continued to recollect the cries of pain, and the faces of the father and son. The memories causing a knot to form in my stomach.
*
The sun eventually broke across the eastern horizon, and the outline of Noveria came into view. I sighed in relief knowing that a warm meal and bed would be waiting for me. Few of my neighbors were beginning to leave their homes in preparation for the start of the day; a few greeted me me with a smile or wave, some glancing curiously to who I had riding with me.
I soon spotted the smoke rising from the chimney of my family's house and Andrevous collecting wood for the fire. I dismounted and called out his name, Andreia waking at the noise.
“Well look what Hades himself brought home. Took you long enough! Been seven days, Darius!” Andrevous said as he spotted me approaching the house. Before I could respond he bear hugged me, forcing all the breath from my lungs.
“It's... good to... see you too... Agh!! Too tight!”
“Oh, so the big bad Ranger can't take a hug from his little brother huh? Seems like you're getting soft Darius.” My brother said with a smile as he let go of me.
“Well it would certainly help if you weren't twice my size.” I responded as I cracked what was left of my back, “Brother, I found someone on the road home; she was injured from a bandit ambush. I've patched her up as best as I could, but we need to get her inside.” Upon looking at Brin and spotting Andreia, Andrevous's face grew stern.
“I'll help her inside, you get the rest of the family; they should be in the kitchen eating.”
“I'm fine thank you very much. Just... need a little help getting down.”
I went inside to find the rest of my family enjoying breakfast. The first thing I did before anyone could welcome me was grab Ostar's plate of scrambled eggs and bacon and dig in. He just sat there sputtering curses as mother got up and hugged me, even though she noticed the dirt and blood on my jerkin.
“It's good to have you home Darius, but if I might ask, what in Equis happened to you?” Just as she finished Andrevous and Andreia walked in, the former supporting the other.
“Before I explain that, Andreia here needs your help mom. She was hurt in a bandit ambush and took a stab wound to the stomach along with a broken nose. I cleaned and doctored the wound as best I could and broke the nose back into place, but you should still check the her yourself.”
“Alright, Andrevous help her into the spare room. I'll get my kit... And Darius quit talking with your mouth full! You're a grown man and should know better!” I winced at the tone of her voice, but the hot food was worth it.
*
“I've cleared up the wound, and the maggots should clear up anything else. The nose was realigned in it's previous position, and there should be no sign of it being broken. You are ,however, running a slight fever, and until it clears up you are to stay in bed and rest.” My mother said sternly.
“Thank you for everything you and your family has done for me Mrs. Regillus, but I need to return to-”
“I will hear none of it. I've raised three sons and had more than my fair share of putting up with things like this. Now lay back down before the herb I put into your medicine takes effect and knocks you out.” Andreia's eyes went wide when she heard that, mom never took no for an answer. As I left the room, she shot me a glance of dread before succumbing to whatever concoction had been given to her, I smirked at the sight.
Mother was a humble woman for the most part, but could turn into a force of nature when need be. I still feared my name being called to this very day in that relaxed and calm voice for I knew that the true meaning behind it would send even a dragon fleeing. Even for a sixty-three year old herbalist that grew up in the hills that bordered the Gryphon Kingdoms she commanded respect and rightly so, not only for possessing the healing skills of a doctor but the aura of authority that surrounded her.
The only man brave enough, or foolish enough, to say he was her equal was my father. I shook my head at the thought of how in the entirety of Equis he lived through that ordeal. They were happy together though, and they've been married for forty-some years so I left it at that.
I entered the living quarters and planted myself into the nearest open chair, letting my head hang back as I gave out a long winded sigh. It had been a long three day journey home, and even though I've had far worse, I took whatever comfort I could get.
“Well now that everything has been taken care of, what happened Darius?” My mother said as she walked in. Ostar and Andrevous sat on the couch, while father propped himself against the doorway, waiting for me to start.
I began with explaining to them about being accepted into the Rangers and talking with Halt Slovis, dad smiled at the mention of his name. Then I went into detail about the journey home, and the fight with the group of bandits. As I finished my two brothers whispered something to themselves, and my father spoke.
“The last time I heard of a bandit attack this far north was over sixteen years ago. It seems that the conflict with Equestria is beginning to take it's toll on the Empire. I doubt peace will hold between our two nations for long.”
“Then what can we do to stop this madness?” Andrevous asked
“There is nothing we can do. No man amongst us, and most likely Sombra himself, cannot hope to stem the tide of hatred our two species harbor for one another.” Everyone was silent until Andrevous spoke.
“Then I will go with Darius and Ostar tomorrow and enlist when we reach Whitehaven. You taught each one of us father to never fight for fame or glory for such things are what blind men seek. Instead you taught us to only stand when either ourselves or the ones we love are endanger. I choose this road not because I hate the Equestrians for what they're doing, but because of those who I love that will be behind me. If I should fall, then I fall knowing that I stood defending those that I care for the most.” All eyes were on him yet no one spoke, not even mother. The fire crackled as we let his words sink in.
*
That night I could find no sleep and so I sat by the hearth as everyone slept in their rooms. I contemplated what my future likely held as I watched the fire, now but a few embers, burn. I was interrupted before long as I felt another presence enter the room; I turned my head and saw that it was Ostar. I didn't say anything as joined me in an adjacent chair. We both sat in silence for a time before I heard him speak.
“You did the right thing yesterday of letting the boy live. Few would have done so, and even fewer would even had thought about sparing his life. It is a terrifying reality we live in. Never to know true peace of mind. To always have to fear what may come next... Then you have these conflicts between Humanity and the Equestrians. Has no logical man or even pony come to realize that war is a crime in itself?” He said with anger in his voice.
“Yet you must ask yourself, how many are willing to listen to logic? Would it not be easier to follow the sounds of the trumpets, and be led to a glorious death with the thought that what they are doing is leading their people towards a brighter tomorrow? The day we find peace is the day we all become liberals and found a utopia for all. Will that day come? I hope that it will, but the chances are far too slim.” I responded with a tinge of sorrow in my own.
“... What chance is there for us to win this war should it come to pass? All we have is a slight advantage in technology and military experience. But the Equestrians are not only comprised of three races that outnumber us a four to one but are led by two demi-gods. What hope do we have to stand against such a force?”
“Always have hope brother; it is the lifeblood of Humanity. No matter the odds as long as one man stands there is hope. It is what has driven our kind over the last millennium, without it none of us would be here today. We are a stubborn species that should have been killed off long ago, but by some miracle here we are. If we are put at the brink of extinction then we will make it such an end.” The words drifted in the air as we sat in silence. When the fire died, we turned to watch the red dawn rise.
When morning came Andrevous, Ostar, and I packed up our possessions. Thankfully Andreia recovered enough for mother to let her leave. After eating breakfast we all went outside and began to say our farewells.
Mother was practically heartbroken that all us were leaving. She said that it had been the best years of her life to raise each one of us, even with all the trouble we caused her, yet that was what had made it special. That the memories of our misfit adventures would always be in her memories. She kissed each of us on the forehead, tears in her eyes.
Father looked over each one of us, his eyes locking with our own a few seconds before moving on. I could tell though that behind the blank expression was a hint of sadness and regret. He spoke after he passed Ostar.
“My father said this to me forty-two years ago when I left home on a foggy spring morning... Live your life and live it well. For you live only once and die twice. When you take your final breath, and when your name is spoken for the very last time... It is up to each of you to write what you leave behind. Take each triumph and failure with pride for it is what forges you into the man people will remember you by. Wake up each day meaning to make the most of it for when old age and death comes to claim you, you will be proud of the book you have written throughout life... I do not know where your futures lead too, but know this, for as long as your mother and I shall live, we will be proud of whatever each of you do with your lives.”
When he finished, all of us had tears in our eyes. We all got to together for one final hug. It seemed like the moment would live forever, but eventually it had to end. The three of us rejoined Andreia, who also had tears in her eyes, and began the journey to Whitehaven with the sun on our faces.
*
As the day went on I found myself glancing in Andreia's direction. I didn't really notice what she looked like before now. She was only a little shorter than myself and had long, light brown hair. Her face sported no permanent injuries, and her nose had healed for the most part. She walked with pride in her step, and her head held high... I shook my head though as my mind began to wander. It was not something I normally did, yet the thought that there may be a future with her stayed at the recesses of my mind.
*
It was nearing dusk on the third day when we saw the sleek stone walls of Whitehaven begin to break across the horizon. The city itself was more of a defensive citadel guarding the pass to Crystállum in the valley beyond. The foreboding towers and parapets lining the mountain that they were carved from. I couldn't even fathom the manpower required to surmount the walls, let alone have the strength to take the rest of the city.
We passed through the massive gatehouse to find the entire city abuzz. Men, women, and even a few griffins could be found wandering the streets and building. The four of us had to skirt through the endless crowd; barely avoiding everyone in our path.
Once Ostar was knocked over by a rather small, red, griffin whose feathers seemed to refract light; he quickly sputtered something about the winter solace and quickly entered back into the torrent of people. Ostar called out for him to come back, but the griffin either did not hear or didn't want to; he cursed under his breathe and said something about his experiment.
We continued for another twenty minutes before reaching the expansive marketplace in the center of the city; this was where we had to part ways however. Andreia and Ostar had to continue north for that was the only exit towards Crystállum. While Andrevous and I needed to head east towards the military district.
The two of us hugged Ostar one last time, wished him luck at Lorvard, and that we may see him again soon. We watched as Andreia and him began the trek to the northern gatehouse; what caught my attention though was Andreia looking back at me for a few seconds before following Ostar. I let the sight play in my mind until I felt Andrevous's hand on my shoulder. He nodded his head at me and I grabbed Brin's reins as I followed Andrevous towards the military district.
Calling the district chaotic would be an understatement. Hundreds of men and women could be seen drilling, marching, or making equipment on this cold winter day; it didn't seem surprising though due to the state of things, plus the fact this city was the only viable way towards the capital. We eventually reached one of the many recruitment offices; Andrevous stopped at one of the doors, I could tell by the look on his face that he was in deep thought.
“Well Darius... I guess this is where we say goodbye. I pray that it won't be long before we find ourselves along with Ostar returning to Noveria... heh... I always dreamed of what it would be like leaving home and exploring the world, but it seems today the only thing I want now is to relive the years we had as children. When we could enjoy the comforts of home, and play in the Arminas to our hearts content. Where the only thing we had to fear was the scolding of mother... It seems so long ago...”
“If only we could... I remember when we tried to operate that catapult the traveling fair brought with them eight years ago, and actually managed to send a chicken through Mrs. Cranley's window. I couldn't believe my own eyes when she came out of her house with an egg splattered all over her face, and yelled...”
“Who the hell just shot this chicken into my kitchen!”
“I still cannot believe to this very day no one knew it was us.” I said wiping a tear from my eye after laughing so hard. After the two of us calmed down at the memory, we had one final hug before Andrevous walked up the steps to the office.
“Take care of yourself Andrevous.”
“I don't think I'll need to worry too much. I should instead be the one telling you that; I can at least take a punch.”
“Always have to have the last laugh don't you?”
“Of course, I'm your little brother, that's my job... When this is all over me, you, and Ostar are going out for drinks, my treat.” I shook my head at that before looking back at him.
“I'll hold you to that. Just make sure we get to see you again.”
“Don't worry, you will.” Andrevous said with a smile before entering the building.
Now alone I began to wander the district looking for someone that could point me in the direction of the Rangers. After ten minutes it seemed though someone found me. I saw a man with a familiar green cloak and horse walking towards me, a smile was on his face.
“Name's Corvus Externus, and I've been looking for another Ranger for some time, by chance are you Darius?” he asked as we shook hands. I noticed Corvus was around the same age as me, had a lean build, and his jet black hair extended past his ears.
“Yes, Darius Regillus. I'm guessing that you're in my squad?”
“Yup, the rest of us are over this way.” Corvus said as he lead me towards a small park at the end of the street. “There are three others in our squad: Ezia Morderca, Balthasar Stermin, and Faramen Felagund, who's our Master Ranger. Ezia and Faramen are by far the friendliest in the group, and will make you feel right at home. Balthasar on the other hand is rather quite for the most part, only speaks when spoken to. Everyone has gotten to know each other for the most part though.” As he finished Brin and his horse snorted in recognition.
“Oh, by the way this is Athos. Been with him for over five years. I got him after the Rangers recruited me back in Brimstone.”
“Well it seems him an Brin are getting along. My father trained me for seven years in Noveria, and I got Brin after my first year.” I finished as we entered the park.
When we entered I saw a man, most likely Faramen, and a woman, Ezia, talking around a small campfire while Balthasar sat to the side widdling at a piece of wood. The man I guessed was Faramen got up when he saw us. He appeared to have the same physical build as Corvus, yet had longer, reddish hair about like my brother's and looked slightly older.
“Looks like you finally found him Corvus. I'm sure he has already told you about us, but I'm Faramen Felagund, your commanding officer.” he said before pointing to the other two, “and this is Ezia Morderca and Balthasar Stermin.” Ezia smiled and waved while Balthasar nodded his head.
“I've heard about your father Darius, and from those stories I'm more than happy to have you with us. Before anything else though here is your brooch. It signifies you as a Ranger and should allow you access to things normally restricted to the average soldier; that is if the cloak, horse, and equipment doesn't get through.” Faramen said as he handed me a bronze pendant that had the shape of two crossed ravens. I studied it before noticing an engraving on the back
'May we prevent the first strike, and make the last, before another should find it's mark.' I let the words sink into my mind, and pinned it to my cloak before feeling Faramen's hand on my shoulder.
“For the last three hundred and sixty-two years, every Ranger before you Darius has lived by that code. Written by our first captain, Richard Votum, after he and five-hundred other Rangers turned back a force of ten thousand Griffins, Minotaurs, and Equestrians at the Ruins of Tambelon. Four hundred and twenty-three of us lost their lives during that battle. Without their sacrifice Humanity would have been driven to extinction, and Sombra would never have been able to found the Empire. We do not know how the crossed ravens came to be, but to this day we use them as a symbol of remembrance for every man and woman that served as a guardian to Humanity...” Faramen finished as he rejoined the group.
I took one last look at the brooch, the ravens' heads dimly shining in the evening sun, before setting my equipment down next to rest and letting Brin graze with the other horses. I took a seat next to Corvus, and listened to the others talk about their lives as I watched the fire burn into the night.
