The Life Of Kronus, Part 3, Battle For Ivarstead

Part 3

Melina wasn’t Melina anymore. All that was left of her soul were the memories, feelings, and drive of the Primal. There was no doubt about it. Melina was being taken over by a Primal. She could feel herself slowly slipping away into the nothingness, her soul was a tiny candle in the wind, it was bond to be blown out eventually. It was only a matter of time.

Melina had lost all her memories, even her personality. All that were left were the memories of the Primal that was taking control of Melina slowly, but it wouldn’t be long before Melina was gone completely. Melina had put up a good fight for a mere human, thought the Primal, but in another three days and it would be over.

The Primal almost felt bad for the girl, but she knew it was necessary. She would not be bound by the chains of the Elder Gods no longer. She deserved to live, even if she had to fall so low as to use a human girl’s life to do so. But that didn't mean she didn't feel bad about exchanging her life for the human. The girl, Melina, had a family. Something even the Primal once had, before the others were bound by their own creations, forced to live in solitude. Sealed away forever. But it was only a matter of time. She would free herself, and she would get her revenge.

She was born before anything else. Well, she wasn’t really born. She had always been there, and always would be.The infinite plains of nothing, while also being no space at all were for her and the other Primal’s alone to roam. It was empty from a humans perspective maybe, but to her it was as cozy as a warm seat by the fire. It was home. And she got to share it with her loving family, the four others that lived in peace and serenity with her. The humans called them Primals, but to her she and the others just were. They did not need a name.

Living alone in the depths of nothing, everything was perfect. Not a sound was spoken, but the love she and the others felt for each other was enough to break the silence. Just knowing that they were there beside her, to guide her, and care for her warmed her non-existent heart. She and the other 4 for all of existence. Or maybe it was mere seconds? It was hard to tell. There was no time, it had not been invented yet. There was no need. Things did not need an explanation, they just simply were. And she and the others understood it all.

Until the day that everything changed. The Primals had finally grown bored of it all. Watching the endless dark void for all time by themselves. They longed for companionship, adventure, and more than a reason for living. They couldn’t stand to be alone in a place where there was literally nothing but them. Where there were no rules and anything and nothing were both possible.

So the Primals came together and created space. And suddenly the void wasn't nearly as dull. Now there was a place for them to truly roam. A slowly expanding bubble of space. And they named this Space. Pleased by their new invention, and the comfort that it brought, it wasn’t long before they created time. Now events that happened no longer existed at the present, future, and past all at once. Once something had happened, it was history. And the universe finally had age, even if the Primal themselves were still timeless. But there was still something to be done. Something was missing. So finally the Primals created the Elder Gods, and with it the One Language, a way to communicate between Primal and Elder, and a monument to the depth of the love that the Primals only wished to share with these new beings as equals.

The purpose of these beings, these "Elders" were more than just companionship, they were meant to serve the Primal, and help create a plane of existence that was “alive” and “full” rather than dead and empty space. And in this, they did not fail. They created the universe, and everything in it. Every single detail, from the clouds of the night sky covering the sun, to snow glistening on the evergreen trees in the winter, to endless stars and galaxies, and possible life on other planets, each of them special in their own way. It was amazing what they could do, and the Elder Gods quickly became good friends of the Primal. Taking advantage of their abilities fully to help their creators.

The Primals and the Elders worked hard together to add more and more into the world. Colors, substances, and finally even life, such as humans were perfected. The rough draft of the world had finally become a beautiful novel, and it was time to start reading the first page. Finally, their masterpiece was finished. And the five Primal and ten Elders were proud of their creation. And the Primals were happy. But there was no more need in the world for the Elders or the Primals, who’s sole purpose was to create something to fill the void. There was nothing left for the Elders and Primals to do, and while the Primals were happy, satisfied with what they had created and their new friendship with their new neighbors, the Elders were not impressed. There was no more for them to do, no purpose, no meaning to their existance. And the fact that they were useless and there was nothing for them drove them mad.

And it wasn't long before they turned against their creators, for the sear weight of nothing new forever was crazy. They would tear this world down and create it again, over and over, as they were meant to do. It was the only thing that could make them truly happy. But the Primal did not want this beautiful novel to be ripped to shreds. So they had no choice but to defend what they had made. And with guilty hearts on both sides between friends a battle took place between the immovable object that were the Primal, and the unstoppable force that was the Elders.

For infinity the war raged on, neither the Primals or the Elders gaining the advantage. Until the Elder gods realized how to defeat the Primal. Even the Primal themselves didn’t know how they did it, but they did. The Primal were forever locked away inside infinite separate universes, much like the ones that the Elders had made before, but compacted into granite slabs. One for each Primal, where the rules of the universe were that the Primals had no abilities at all, and therefore could not escape. They were pieces of special marble in the universe that The Primal and Elders had first created, but within the marble a separate universe where the Primal were powerless. The Primal were not able to escape from these realms, and could do nothing but wait in infinite darkness for eternity until they were given freedom at the mercy of the Elder Gods.

But there was a weakness in the plans of the Elders. Blood. The blood of the Elder Gods and their descendants, Gods and even minor Gods could wake the Primals from a simple drop of blood. Even human beings could awaken the Primal with their blood, but much more would be needed. And so they waited inside their stone prisons, until they would be free

Heartbroken and betrayed, she cried there in her cold stone prison alone. This new universe was nothing like the warm seat by the fire that she knew. It was cold and dark. As she cried, she asked why. She struggled against the chains that bound her, but it was unless. And she was all alone. She yelled at the Elders in the One Language, the only bond between Elders and Primals that hadn't been broken. But they would not listen. Over time, her sadness grew to rage. How could they? She thought to herself, over and over, until the betrayal hurt so bad that she couldn't think about it anymore. And finally she began to change. And eventually, she snapped. The rage burned hot inside her, she was no longer benevolent. She hated the Elders. And for all that she stood for, she would have her revenge.

Until enough blood would be shed for her to return.

Over the many thousands of years, humans began to grow from hunter gatherers to farmers, and eventually villages were formed. And who did they worship and praise as their makers? The Elders. The Primal girl didn’t know what the others of her kind felt, but she felt the rage, the only thing that guided her thoughts these days. “Those ungrateful humans,” she thought to herself, “Someday I will bath in their blood. And she did. Over time the humans grew from simple farmers to warriors, relying on war to take hold of resources. One day she spoke to a human boy who had fled his hometown after murdering his parents.

Somehow he had found his way into the cave where she lay in the middle of a small lake on an island. The Primal girl was desperate for even the smallest amount of blood to dampen her stone prison with, she was thirsty for it. So she offered him immortality, the instinct of a warrior, and mastery of all of magic in exchange for his endless service and his blood. The boy slit his wrist and feed the thirsty girl his bloody essence. It was nothing compared to that of a god, but it was still delicious. The stone prison glowing bright orange, and she was warm. Almost like she was back when she was with her family. There was no doubt about it, this boy was meant for great things, thought the Primal girl. The Primal asked the boy his name. He said they called him Mad Ricky. He was the first of the Blackhoods. And it wouldn’t be long that the world would fear his name.

But none of that mattered anymore. Even after Mad Ricky had her Blood Alter bathing in blood, it still wasn’t enough to brake free. It only offered seconds of relief in what seemed like an endless cold hell. She needed more blood, and she couldn’t wait any longer, she had to escape, free her brothers and sisters, and take revenge against Elder Gods for what they did to her. That was why she needed Melina. If she could take control of Melina’s body, she would finally be able to take matters into her own hands. Sure, she could temporarily take over human bodies, but what she needed was something more permanent. And she had chosen Melina. With Melina’s body under the power of the Primal girl, she could surely find enough blood to rise from her prison, and even help her Primal brethren to rise too. Then together they would torture the Elders, make them watch as they destroy their spirits, make them suffer like they did, end them, and then finally watch over the world again with the gifts of their past mistakes.

Kronus woke up to find a large man man in valor armor standing over him. He almost jumped out of his skin, and the man laughed a gruff laugh, before grabbing hold of Kronus’s shoulders and pulling his damaged body up into a standing position.

“Up and at ‘em” The man said with a silly smile. “I found you down by the river. Been wonderin’ when you’d wake up. Glad to see you still have some life in ya.”

“Um, sir? Where am I?” Asked Kronus with wide and curious eyes.

“Well, right now your sittin’ in a cave. It’s my temporary home. Ya see, I’m a treasure named Revivified, but you can just call me Rev. I travel the world in search of a legendary weapon, the famed GoldShot. Sorry I ain’t got no fancy home by the way. The GoldShot is said to be made for a great king thousands of years ago with the nickname the God Of Heroes, it's said that it was made by angels from a special ore only found in the heavens themselves, angelite. It is the most powerful gun ever created. But it was stolen by his son, a coward who left with the weapon, before it could be presented to the so called God Of Heroes. The King was furious with his son and banished him from the land they lived in to the depths of the earth, The Underworld. It is said that he and the GoldShot are still down there, waitin' to be found. So I search all the known world in search of GoldShot and any other treasures.” Revivified explained, “Care for some breakfast? I caught some fish this morning in the same place that I found you.”

The men sat in a beautiful, clear, river, barefoot. Their feet in the clear water of the flowing river that Kronus had happened to be found in earlier. Kronus was surprised at how beautiful this place was. It was a hot and humid even for a summer day, but everything looked full of life. It was as if Mother Nature lived in this place. Over a breakfast of fish Kronus explained that his wife was dying, and he and his father in law had headed out of Ivarstead to find a mysterious being called The Healer to save her. He explained how difficult the journey had been, and how he and Ben had to escape from bandits along the way. Tears came to his eyes once more when he came to the part where he came to the part where Ben and him had stood up against the ghouls, and how he witnessed Ben being eaten alive by the ghouls as he fell from the cliff.

“So that’s how ya turned up. You must have landed in the same river I was fishing in. Oh, and I’m sorry for your loss. I’ve lost loved ones too before, and I know it ain’t easy.” Revivified said as he patted Kronus on the back a little too hard. “Well, I don’t know nothing about a healer, but I do know of an old fortress nearby called Highland Fortress up on a nearby mountain. It’s a safe haven for Monster Hunters, magic users, assassins, mercenaries, and other strange folk. It also serves as a school for warriors, mages, archers, gunners, and many other strange things. It’s said that many of the greatest warriors in all of Helmettria have been trained there. You might find your Healer there, after all, there are some famous folk there, anything from the best of mages to warriors. If I were you, that’s were I would search first. It’s in that direction. But before you go, let me give you this.”

Revivified handed Kronus some climbing gear, rope and a special sharp piece of metal on the end.. “Your gonna need it if you want to get back on the path to Highland Fortress. Simply throw this as metal grappling hook as far as you can and climb. And if you ever come back this way on your way back to Ivarstead, visit me. I could use the company.”

“Thank you for everything Rev, you fed me, you saved my life, and now the jetpack, how can I ever repay you?” Kronus asked with a heartfelt smile.

Revivified looked back with a strangely sad on his face. One that had felt lose before as well. Then he said, “Save Melina for me. And don’t break that jetpack, it’s expensive. Other than that, good luck on your adventure. And Ben ... And may Ben rest in peace.” Revivified said. “Now get out of here, before I decide to take my jetpack back.” Revivified said with another cheerful smile, as if nothing had happened.

Kronus shouted, “Thanks for everything!”

before taking off into the air with his new jetpack. Revivified waved as Kronus took off, turning to a small silhouette of a person in the blinding sunlight. Revivified had to shield his eyes to avoid the sting of the sunlight. Soon he was just a speck of dust on the horizon, and then, nothing.

Ben quickly caught up to LycanBlade, out of breath. “Wait, take me with you!” shouted Ben between deep breathes.

LycanBlade looked back in disgust and surprise, “What is it kid?”

“I want to learn how to fight, and travel the world. I want to be like you. Please take me as your disciple.” Pleaded Ben

Lycanblade laughed, “You? Your just a kid, I don’t teach kids.”

“I can learn, please I’ll do whatever you say.” Responded Ben. “Kid, you have parents. Do you really think that I would steal a kid from their parents? And my life isn’t what you think it is. You think that being a mercenary like me is all valor and saving villages? Like I’m a hero? Like doing what I do is easy? I could die at any moment, do you want that? DO YOU!!?" Lycanblade's eyes flashed with anger. "Kid, you don’t know what your getting yourself into.”

There’s no way that kid will want to be my apprentice after that, thought Lycanblade. Probably doesn’t have the balls. Besides, a pip squeak like that could never be a warrior. Never. And so Lycanblade made his way into the forests and mountains surrounding the town. It was time to go back to Highland Fortress and look for a new assignment. After a few hours of walking LycanBlade decided to take a quick break, after all he was in no rush. He deserved a break after successfully defeating those bandits and claiming his reward from the townsfolk of Ivarstead. That’s when he saw him.

It was the kid, he was hiding behind a tree. Then he disappeared behind the tree again. How the hell did he get here? Does he mean to follow me all the way back until I "train" him? What the Hell?

“Come out pip squeak, I see you.”

The boy Ben came out from behind the tree, looking at the ground. His checks red with embarrassment. LycanBlade was surprised that the kid had the balls to get here.

“What’s your name kid?”

“Ben, my name is Ben,” said Ben with determination in his voice, even though his face showed he was nervous. “Does this mean you’ll train me?”

LycanBlade seriously thought of training the pip squeak, but dismissed the thought almost immediately. But, I guess I could have fun with this. Thought LycanBlade to himself with a sneer.

“I want you to polish my armor and then oil it. Then I will teach you how to sharpen my sword, and you will sharpen it until you think it is perfect. Then I will test it on a tree. If I don’t like the job you did, I’ll make you do it all over again. It is important to keep your gear in the best possible condition. After all, stiff, creaking battle armor and a dull sword could mean your death. Rust is unacceptable. If you get it right, we will move on to the next lesson." Commanded Lycanblade with a hint of a laugh in his voice.

Over the next 6 hours Ben tried his best to clean and polish LycanBlades armor. The first time was done poorly and LycanBlade made him redo it. The next time was better, but not perfect. Finally the third time Ben had gotten the hang of it, and LycanBlade was pleased. But he didn’t show it.

“That was an even shittier job than the first time you did it. Try harder!”

While Ben worked away on the armor for the fourth time, LycanBlade thought to himself, this boy just might be a warrior someday. He certainly has the determination of one, but how would I know, I never thought to take a disciple before. He might be the best choice at the moment. Maybe this isn’t so bad after all. Old Jerek will be proud of me, my first disciple. Yeah, I think I just might like this.

“LycanBlade sir, I’m finished.” Ben said politely.

LycanBlade inspected the armor he had bought after graduating and the Skull Crusher sword that his old master Jerek himself had given to him when he had finished his apprenticeship. How long ago was that? About a year, LycanBlade thought to himself. Just one year since I became a full fledged mercenary. He remembered how harsh the training was. Maybe I’ll go a little easier on the kid. The armor glowed, and was oiled to perfection. The amount of shine on the blade of his sword was unbelievable. LycanBlade was impressed.

“Ok kid, you earned a break. Feel free to sleep a little, I’ll keep watch.” Said LycanBlade with a yawn.

“No, I can’t go to sleep now, I’m too excited. What’s next?” Ben asked.

“Fine….. fine, kid, you know what, I’ll teach ya something else but then you have to promise to me that you’ll go to sleep.

“Sure, what are going to teach me this time?” Ben said with excitement.

“I’m going to teach you how to dodge bullets,” replied LycanBlade.

“WHAT!” Yelled Ben. “Oh, suck it up already. You can’t be my disciple if all you do is cry. Besides, we won’t be using bullets yet, your not ready for that. We’re using rocks and slingshots. You will dodge these rocks flung by my slingshot from 2 meters away at first, and then you will get closer and closer to me until you are point blank. This will test your speed and reaction time, it will teach you how to dodge. “Ready?” asked LycanBlade “Yes sir,” replied Ben. After two more hours of training Ben was out of breath, and red with bruises from being hit by the slingshot. Lycanblade couldn't help but admire the boy's zeal. Although his skill was mediocre, the boys determination is something else. Something that could push his body through all its limits. He really puts his all into everything that he does. And he listens to whatever I say. He is the perfect apprentice. He deserves the training he craves.

“You did good kid, why don’t you get yourself some sleep? Tomorrow’s going to be a long day. We’re traveling to Highland Fortress.”

“Where is that?” Replied Ben. “On top of a mountain 3 days from here. It’s where I was trained, and where you will be trained too. Many of the greatest teachers of heroes and legends are there, and I am sure that you will become a great warrior with me at your side, apprentice.” LycanBlade smiled.

Ben smiled back.

“Well, we’ve got training to do early tomorrow morning, so get some sleep alright?” Said Lycanblade with a yawn.

“Sure thing replied Ben.” And so Ben fell asleep with LycanBlade doing night watch. “The training will be tough, but I think you can do it Ben,” LycanBlade mumbled. “Good luck.”

Ben woke up to find LycanBlade sharpening two sticks into wooden swords. LycanBlade threw one of the wooden swords at Ben. “Catch,” LycanBlade said as the wooden sword flew through the air. Ben caught the sword, but before he could even ask what was happening LycanBlade ran at him and swung his sword fast, although not as fast as when he fought the bandits. Ben managed to block the sword with some difficulty but then LycanBlade attacked again, knocking the wooden sword from Ben’s grip. In another moment LycanBlade had the wooden sword at Ben’s throat.

“Your form is sloppy and your speed is shit. Bandits aren’t as slow as a turtle or a slug. Hold your swords tip up to your shoulder, and hold it with one hand, wooden swords are light. Don’t just stand there, you need to point to me with only your shoulder and side, that way you don’t expose your stomach. With less of your body showing, you’re harder to hit. Are you even listening??!" Lycanblade explained angrily.

After I few more tiring hours Ben was almost out of breath, but had learned the basics of swordsmanship. Lycanblade had attacked him again and again, and Ben was starting to show real improvement in his skills. LycanBlade attacked once more, and this time Ben used his skill from dodging the stones from the slingshot to try to dodge. However LycanBlade continued his swing and Ben had to block the wooden sword. But he didn’t see what came with the sword, LycanBlade's elbow. Ben took the elbow to his face and felt his nose break, but to Lycanblade's surprise he refused to give up. Ben swung his sword at LycanBlade’s neck and LycanBlade ducked underneath the blade and kicked Ben in the chest. Ben did a backwards roll on the ground and stood up. Yelling he charged LycanBlade and swung his sword to the right, moving his body to the right along with the sword for extra power. LycanBlade blocked the sword with his, but he didn’t see what was coming next. The momentum of Ben’s sword slashing to the right set him up for a perfect kick from his right leg, which LycanBlade blocked just barely in time with his arm. LycanBlade’s sword was once again at Ben’s throat, but this time Lycanblade was impressed.

“You know, I may have only been at about 40% of my actually speed and power, but you almost held your own against me. I’m impressed disciple.” Said LycanBlade said sincerely.

And so master and disciple made their way slowly towards Highland Fortress. Along the way LycanBlade showed Ben how to correctly attack with the wooden sword, showing him how to strike, slash, stab, and refine this skill to keep his sword steady when he attacked while keeping the same power and the ability to be ready for whatever his opponent had next.

As they walked Ben imagined himself being attacked by bandits, swinging his sword as if fighting a small group of them. and although LycanBlade could not see the imagined enemies himself he could see that Ben was becoming faster, stronger and smarter with his sword strikes. Although his footwork was still sloppy and his blocking wasn’t perfect, progress was certainly being made. And after a few years of training at Highland Fortress he could prove to be a great warrior, maybe even as good as LycanBlade himself.

I’ll have to ask him for one last battle when he graduates. Thought LycanBlade. He could become quite the warrior.

The two set up camp and LycanBlade taught Ben how to block and move his feet correctly in battle by the campfire. After blocking attack after attack, Ben had finally learned how to stop LycanBlade’s sword from touching his neck quite as easily. The footwork came next, Ben learned how to shift his feet and weight to block attacks easier, put more strength into attacks, and even attack with more speed and furiosity then before. LycanBlade noticed that Ben had no weaknesses anymore in his form or the way he handled fighting with a blade. Tomorrow they would fight with a real weapon, LycanBlade with his two handed Skull Crusher, and Ben with LycanBlade’s secondary weapon, Beast Bane. But for now, he would let the boy sleep.

Ben woke up the next morning to find a wooden shield and a silver short sword next to his sleeping bag. He was overjoyed.

“Does this mean that I finally get to fight with a real sword now Master?” Ben asked.

“Yes,” LycanBlade said simply. “But it will be far more difficult to use than your wooden sword, as it is heavier and far more dangerous. Are you sure you're ready for this?”

“Yes, I’m ready.” Said Ben with a determined look.

“Then pick up the sword and the shield." Replied Lycanblade, "Use the sword with your right hand like I showed you, and pick up the wooden shield with your left. For one handed weapon users like how you’ve been learning yourself, the only way to stand up to the bigger two handed swords is through the speed of having a smaller sword, using both hands for more control and power, or using a shield. Today you will be using a shield. This is the final test of your abilities before we get to Highland Fortress. If you last more than 30 seconds, you pass. If not then training will stay outside of the Fortress until you pass this challenge. A long time ago I passed this same trial on the second try. Let’s see how you do.”

LycanBlade charged at Ben with great strength and speed, more so than ever before. LycanBlade slashed low with his Skull Crusher but Ben managed to jump over the sword. Next came a kick from LycanBlade from the momentum of his sword and turning his body around. Ben blocked the kick with his shield and slashed at LycanBlade’s head with Beast Bane. LycanBlade blocked the blade of Beast Bane with his own before kicking at Ben’s chest. Ben blocked most of the impact with his wooden shield but was still knocked back from the shear weight put behind the kick. LycanBlade may not be at full power, thought Ben, but definitely more than any fight before. LycanBlade stabbed with his Skull Crusher, and Ben blocked it with his wooden shield.

The Skull Crusher easily cut through the shield, and the sword became stuck in the wood. Ben had to let go of it as it was now useless. LycanBlade took a moment to take the shield’s remains off the sword and then threw it at Ben. Ben tried to block it with his shield, but soon realized that he didn’t have a shield. With a large cracking noise Ben shrieked in pain as his forearm broke. But he would not give up, and neither would LycanBlade.

LycanBlade had used the thrown shield as a distraction, and slashed at Ben’s chest. It wasn’t easy, but Ben managed to block the Skull Crusher. LycanBlade was just about to put his sword to Ben’s throat but realized that 30 seconds had just passed and stopped. “Nice job Ben. You lasted 30 seconds.

"Yes!" Yelled Ben, holding his silver short sword to the sky.

"You passed the trial," Said Lycanblade with a serious yet satisfied look on his face. "Now let’s head into Highland Fortress with our heads high and get that arm looked at by someone. It’s time for you to meet the boss and your other teacher.

After some more walking, and making a crutch for Ben's broken arm the two warriors finally made it to Highland Fortress, a massive castle on a steep hill with crumbling stone walls surrounding it, a cobblestone bridge and a moat. LycanBlade and Ben made their way across a bridge that led to a large steel gate. Two guards in stone armor with warhammers stood in front of a huge gate that led into depths of the fortress.

“Halt, who goes there?” Asks one of the guards.

“Who the hell do you think it is Bezoar? It’s me LycanBlade, and I brought an apprentice.”

“Sorry," the guard said with a laugh., "I knew it was you, I just never expected that you of all people would bring an apprentice within these walls. You as a teacher just doesn't fit your nature.”

“Well, I guess the little prick grew on me.” LycanBlade smiled at Ben jokingly.

“Hey, I’m not that little!” Said Ben with an angry look on his face.

The two guards and LycanBlade laughed. “Ok, we’ll let you two in then. And little apprentice, good luck with the trials friend.” Said the guard as he and the other guard opened the gate.

LycanBlade and Ben make their way inside to find that the inside of the castle is beautiful, with flowing carpets and antique furniture. There were flower pots, pictures on the walls, and even heads of different deadly monsters on display.

“So, what do you want to be?” Asked LycanBlade.

“What do you mean?” replied Ben.

“Well I suppose you wouldn't know, but everyone who comes to Highland Fortress has to pick a specific class become, and after years of work, studies, and sparing matches they will have taken in all the training, tips, and other things that are needed to become what they want. You can be everything from a mage, to a mercenary like me, to a castle guard like the guys we saw at the gate, to a Monster Hunter, to a”------

Ben wasn't really listening to Lycanblade, and was looking at a giant monster head mounted on the wall on a plaque, in gold letters on the plaque it says repguana killed by Valen, the Monster Hunter. It was then then Ben knew what he wanted to be. He was destined to fight monsters. “I want to be a Monster Hunter.

“Hmm, a Monster Hunter,” said LycanBlade, “Not a bad choice if you like adventure, but it’s a difficult profession. Me, I think it would be easier to stick to killing bandits and people with a bounty on their head. Monster Hunters have to deal with anything from undead, to dragons, to giants. They have the highest mortality rate out of all the classes you could become here. Hell even going to war is easier to survive then a life as a Monster Hunter. It’s your call though.”

“I know what I want LycanBlade,” Ben said simply.

After meeting with Jerek the head teacher at Highland Fortress and telling him that he wished to become Monster Hunter, Ben was told that he would be taught by two masters, LycanBlade in all types of battle and battle strategy, and Valen, a master Monster Hunter in all forms of types of herbs, facts about different monsters that could be hunted, and the best strategies to defeat each and every type of known monster. It was explained to Ben that he would be sharing classes with a girl named Emily who also wanted to become a Monster Hunter. Ben was excited to meet her.

Ben was then taken to his room in the castle by LycanBlade, where he would sleep the night. The room was large, and was covered by a beautiful but expensive carpet over a stone floor. There was a mirror in the corner, and a large chest for belongings. There was even a dresser with a strong leather uniform that Ben supposed he must wear during training. But in the middle of the room was the biggest bed he had ever seen. It looked good enough for a king. And he was SO sleepy after days of nothing but training and walking.

“Your first day of training is tomorrow, so you better get a good night’s sleep pip squeak. By the way, keep Beast Bane. You’ll need it for our training.” Teased LycanBlade.

“Goodnight LycanBlade.” Ben replied excitedly.

Seven years passed, and Ben has successfully completed his training as a Monster Hunter, along with his girlfriend Emily. A day after the yearly celebration where all apprentices become masters, Emily and Ben decided to leave the Fortress in search of work slaying monsters.

“Ahh, I just can’t believe we actually did it.” Said Ben.“Just seven years ago I was a little kid working at a tavern in the middle of nowhere. To believe that we’ve come so far is just amazing.”

“I know right?” Said Emily, “seven years ago I never would have thought I would become a Monster Hunter. But then Valen found me and saved my life from that kreeton.“

Valen. It was always Valen. It had been so difficult to win Emily’s love because of the admiration she felt toward Valen, but he had done it. It still upset him sometimes when she talked about how great Valen was. Sure, he was an amazing Monster Hunter, and the best teacher a man could have, but soon they will be amazing too. They had passed the same trails he had, hadn’t they? They didn't need his guidance anymore. The two of them would travel the world together, going anywhere monsters needed to be exterminated. Together, they would be the best Monster Hunters the world had ever seen.

That was when he caught Lycanblade's stare. It was one of complete lack of expression, a cold stare, and Ben knew what it meant. That was when Ben remembered his promise. He had promised to fight Lycanblade when they were both masters. And Ben was ready.

“Emily, you remember my promise to master LycanBlade, right?”

“Yes” replied Emily

“Well, I’m about to fulfill it.” Ben said with determination.

LycanBlade said nothing as the two master class warriors walked into the forest together until they found an open field. This is where they would do battle. LycanBlade wore his bladed armor and had his Skull Crusher out blade first in the dirt. He was waiting for Ben to charge first. Ben had on his hard leather armor from his training, and Beast Bane, his silver short sword. Ben had the advantage in speed, but LycanBlade had better defense, more reach, and more strength. And those blades on his armor would make attacking even more difficult.

"Well now, let's see what you have learned from your training, Ben." Teased Lycanblade.

This was going to be a hard fight, thought Ben.

LycanBlade gestured for Ben to come closer, a warrior’s smile on his face. A leaf fell from a nearby tree, slowly falling to the ground and landing directly between Lycanblade and Ben. Ben ran full speed at LycanBlade, jumped high and flipped in air.

LycanBlade pulled his sword from the ground and slashed upward at Ben saying, “You always were a good jumper with light armor on.”

Ben parried the strike with his sword and landed behind LycanBlade. He stabbed at the unarmored part of LycanBlade’s armor right near the back of the neck, but by then LycanBlade had already turned around and parried Ben’s sword.

“I can jump too!” Said LycanBlade, jumping into the air despite the heavy armor he had on and as he did brought his sword down in a downward arc.

Ben moved out of range of LycanBlade’s sword and quickly slashed at LycanBlade’s armor, but sadly his sword simply could not cut through such high quality armor, and bounced off. That was when Ben realized that the only effective places to attack were the neck, the eyes, the armpits, the knees, and the groin. Maybe if he could out speed LycanBlade and get in close he could end this, but that might be difficult. He would need to tire him out first, and possibly blind him.

Ben got in range of LycanBlade, and LycanBlade swung sword swing after sword swing, Ben forced to dodge out of the way over and over again at the last second. LycanBlade brought down his sword once more, and Ben actually ran up the sword, and grabbed from his pocket some pepper spray like liquid that he had been taught to make from Valen. It was made from tumble wood and vinegar. Poisons, acids, potions and other things made from herbs were vital in fighting monsters, to make up for the sear difference in strength, one had to rely on more than just a sword swing, and this was something Ben excelled in. He was lucky to have brought some with him. He splashed the liquid in LycanBlade’s eyes, but was then pushed off by LycanBlade’s free hand. Lycanblade yelled and swore in agony, groping at his eyes.

Ben ran at LycanBlade, and LycanBlade swung his sword in all directions, blinded by Ben’s concoction. Ben ducked under LycanBlade’s Skull Crusher and brought his silver short sword up to LycanBlade’s throat, for the first time. LycanBlade smiled despite the pain and said, “You win. You are a true master of fighting now. You even beat me. I’m impressed, monsters beware. Come back from your adventures sometimes so we can have another fight like this one. Next time I won’t go easy on you.” Lycanblade teased.

“Thank you LycanBlade,” Said Ben.

After another seven years of adventures around the world and killing many powerful monsters for cash and glory, Ben returned home to Ivarstead with Emily and they were married. Sick of fighting, they wished a quiet life and decided to put the old tavern back into business with the same name that Ben had grown up with. The Stone Maiden. Ben's parents were happy to see how much their son had grow, and despite their age attended the wedding. A year later Ben’s father got gravely ill, and gave Ben a gift while on his death bed.

His father rasped “Son, my father, his father, and the father before him for as far as I remember have fought with this sword, Death Bringer. I wish for it to stay a part of the family. I love you, and I hope that when you wield that sword, you think of me. It is yours now.”

“Thank you father, I will treasure it forever.” Ben said with tears in his eyes. And from that point on, Ben used Death Bringer in battle. After that Melina was born, and around a decade later the start of this story began with Kronus's first encounter.

Note from the author: Ben learned how to use many different herbs to do different things while in Monster Hunter training at Highland Fortress, such as poison his blade, to curing a few diseases, and to brew potions that can help you see in the dark or heal wounds. Many different things that could be made out of regular herbs that you could find if you knew where to look. This was taught to him because many different herbs are either poisonous against monster, or good at attracting specific monsters that Emily and Ben used to fight when they were Monster Hunters. They were also useful to make up for the huge difference in power between monsters and Monster Hunters, with potions that could give massive strength for several minutes or heal injures. Emily also got the same training, and even uses some of these herbs to add a little kick to the drinks at Stone Maiden Tavern. Now back to the main story line!

Kronus had been climbing the cliff face he had fallen off of the night before for hours. And he was exhausted. The plan was to search for Ben's remains and bury them. Bringing Ben back with him to be buried in Ivarstead was near impossible, but he would give him a proper burial. He would not be forgotten. He cried softly as he climbed onward, the loss of Ben driving him to push himself to climb faster, even though he was already breathing heavily. Finally, when he reached the top he was shocked. Brushing tears from his eyes, he pulled himself up onto the cliff he had fallen from before and saw the remains of many ghouls, and some blood stains but ... no body. Strange. Maybe Ben survived? Kronus couldn’t have been happier.

“YES!” He yelled at the top of his lungs, punching his fists in the air.

All the anguish was gone. Ben must have managed to get away. He had to be alive. But how? There was only one way to find out, he needed to go to Highland Fortress, the one place where Ben could be.

Kronus made his way farther up the mountain, hoping for a glimpse of the Fortress. Knowing that every every second brought him closer to saving Melina. On a mountain high on the horizon, was a castle so massive that it almost dwarfed the mountain itself.

That must be it! Thought Kronus

Finally, he had found it. It looked beautiful, yet tough , with large crumbling stone walls. Guards and warriors were everywhere. There were at least several hundred people that he could count within the walls, all of them, training, chatting, and just going about their natural lives. Sure it was beautiful, but what so many people were doing here in the middle of no where made no sense to him.

As hours passed, Kronus got closer and closer to the Fortress. He was tired and out of breath, but the sweet taste of victory kept him going. He was almost there, and he knew that Ben was waiting for him. They would save Melina with the help of Melina. Together they would bring her back to this world. Tears came to his eyes, but he would not cry. He would stay strong for his family until the end.

Tired and limping, Kronus made his way with legs like lead to the gate of Highland Fortress at dusk. Two guards were blocking the gate.

“Who goes there?” asked one of the guards, pointing a gun at Kronus.

“Ummm, I’m Kronus." Said Kronus quickly in between breathes, "I’m here for the Healer? My wife is in a coma and I fear the worst. Could you please direct me to her?” Asked Kronus timidly.

He had never seen a castle so big or well guarded, having grown up in a small village. It was all a little overwhelming.

“We can’t let you in without a master who knows you, or if you wish to be an apprentice. Are you an apprentice?” Replied the guard.

“No,” Said Kronus.

“Well, healer is a broad term, but this Healer you want is probably Master itblobboy, he can heal almost any wound or disease, but your wrong about one thing. He’s a man.” Said the guard with a chuckle.

“Ok, may I see him?” Asked Kronus, anger in his voice. His wife was dying, and this man was laughing.

“F-Fine." The guard stuttered when he saw the blood lust in Kronus's eyes. "I will check to see if he is available and if he is he will come out and talk to you."

Just then Kronus heard running in the distance and the gate opened up. Out came Ben and two other men, Ben ran towards him and gave Kronus a great big bear hug.

“I thought you were dead!” Said Kronus.

“I thought YOU were dead,” laughed Ben.

"I fell from that ledge and I saw you being attacked by those ghouls and I - I thought you were dead! And then before I knew it I woke up in a cave, and met this treasure hunter named Revivified, and he helped me recover. Then I went searching for your remains and found they were gone! I thought if there was any chance you had survived you would be here, so I made my way here as quickly as I could. Did I miss anything?

“Well,” replied Ben as he let go on Kronus, "Let's just say an old friend saved me. While the ghouls were on top of me I took the poison for undead that I had coated my swords with and lathered myself with it. It stopped the biting. I fought hard against the ghouls and managed to finish them all off, but then I collapsed from the wounds I had gotten while fighting. Valen happened to be having a morning jog the next day and found my body lying there among the corpses of many ghouls. I was dead at the time, but the man was smart enough to bring smelling salts with him, and used that to revive me. After that he applied multiple herbs to my wounds to heal them faster and stop the pain. He even cleaned them for me. Then he brought me back and itblobboy did the rest.”

“Are you sure your alright though?” Questioned Kronus, with sincere concern in his eyes.

“Well, itblobboy said I should take it easy for a while. No more fighting. But I’ll be back to normal in a week or so. How are you?” Ben said as he looked at the beaten looking man before him.

“I’m still in a lot of pain, but nothing that won’t heal." Said Kronus. "Ran all the way here though, so maybe I'll sit down for a while."

The man that came with Ben extended a hand to Kronus, giving him a strong handshake and a pat on the back. He wore light armor, and mirthril sword was at his side. He looked to be in his 50's, and was tall and muscular.

“So this is Kronus, eh? I heard a little bit about you. Your quite the hero it seems. My name is Valen. I'm one of the head Monster Hunters, and in my day I was quite famous. If you ever want to learn a little something, come back to Highland Fortress, we are happy to train someone like you to do almost anything.” Said Valen.

Finally another man made his way out to greet Kronus. He wore a mage's hood, cloak, and leggings. On his back was an iron staff with a blue shinning orb on the end.

“Hello, I’m itblobboy and I’m the one you came here for, right? I mean I am head Healer around these parts, so it would make sense that you'd want my help. Unfortunately I'm also this novice novel's only attempt at breaking the 4th wall. Goddammit SinisterPotatoe, you better do better than that. But lets get back to the matter at hand, mmh k? We've got some important plot development to do and we have all the characters that SinisterPotatoe wanted, so we might as well get on with this thing already. I want to get back to cleaning my magical bucket helmet of doom. Why you ask that I have a magical bucket helmet of doom? It's because this is a novel and your all fictional pieces of trash. As soon as you get over that we can get to the fight scene before our reader gets bored and skips this paragraph. Ahem. Sorry, that was out of character. I love you Kronus, I really do. If you didn't exist us supporting characters wouldn't either. And you can beat you sweet potatoes I am going to save your wife. Anyways, I’m ready to go whenever you are. We’ll teleport back to Ivarstead whenever you feel like. ... I swear I can hear the laughter from here. Goddammit maybe I shouldn't have ditched the psychiatrist.

“Umm, ok then. Should we go now Ben?” Kronus said with determination.

“Yes. As soon as possible.” Ben responded.

“I don’t want to give too many spoilers guys, but shits going to get real when we get there. You better be ready,” Advised itblobboy, readying his phantom staff and putting up his leather mage hood.

"Good luck out there Ben, Kronus, itblobboy, I'll be waiting here rooting for your victory." Said Valen with a half smile. "Good luck."

Ivarstead was a war zone, out of the woods had come over five dozen bandits, among them Gaffer, out for revenge for the men he had lost. The boss had said to come back from this raid victorious, or don’t come back at all. But he had more men. Better men. And as long as they didn’t fuck up, he WOULD be victorious. With him were three berserkers, men that could turn into beasts. And one mercenary. Apparently he was a master mercenary trained at Highland Fortress. His name ... well, that didn't matter, thought Gaffer. No matter, he’s here for the cash, I’m here for revenge Gaffer thought with a sneer. We'll slaughter everyone, just like how they killed my men. And as long as those blasted warriors don’t come back this will be a walk in the park.

The guards sent from the city, along with their commander Mandra Broadshield were busy fighting the bandits, but they were losing. These guards may have been trained in Kanata, one of the safest cities in all of Sage, but no one would be stupid enough to attack such a large city, so they were out of practice. There were more bandits, and they were all seasoned warriors, used to battle. It would be easy for such fighters to take down the guards.

That was when Kronus, itblobboy and Ben teleported into the middle of town. Kronus looked around to find that the village was under attack. Multiple houses were burning and bandits were trying to break into the remaining houses. The only thing to stop them were the guards and a few of Kronus's neighbors that were combat ready. Kronus saw a werewolf like being rip a guard’s head clean off, and drink the blood from his throat. Kronus was in a rage after seeing his town being torn to shreds. His town was being torn to the ground, his wife was dying, and he blamed himself for not being faster, for not being strong enough. The shame and anger was too muchand he lost it. He cried out like a wounded animal, so loud and full of anger and pain, Kronus's red rage ability started to activate.

The rage burned inside him, fueling his body with insane strength and turning his vision red, giving him a crimson aura. He picked up the nearest weapon, a fallen guards sword, and threw it with all his might at the werewolf. The werewolf caught it at the last moment, and threw it back at Kronus. Kronus dodged out of the way and pulled out his ak47, spraying the werewolf with silver bullets.

“YOU LIKE THAT, HUH?!!” yelled Kronus.

The werewolf turned back into a human and said, “So, you possess a rage ability too? Interesting. Want to see who’s is better?”

He turned back into a werewolf and a howled a challenge at Kronus. But that just made Kronus madder. He sprayed more bullets at the werewolf, but the wolf dodged every single one of them with it’s amazing speed, coming closer and closer. When it was in range it scratched at Kronus with it’s claws, but Kronus was fast too, always one step ahead, and the werewolf couldn’t touch him.

Meanwhile Ben fought against one of the other berserkers, a massive bearman with claws that teeth. With Death Bringer in one hand, and Beast Bane in the other, Ben was ready for anything. The bearman leapt at Ben,

Perfect, thought Ben.

This was exactly what Ben wanted, and he stabbed the Bear through the chest. The bear’s face turned human for a moment just to say, “Did you really think that would kill me? I’m a berserker.” Before turning back into a bear and roaring. Then the bearman scratched Ben’s face with it’s claws, Ben could feel the blood making its way into his eyes, effecting his vision. No doubt this would leave a scar. The bearman pulled away, ripping Death Bringer from Ben’s hands. Still stuck in the flesh bearman’s chest. Ben could feel the blood running down from his face from the gash but felt no pain.

Must be in shock, thought Ben.

"I’m too old for this." Muttered Ben.

Ben took a stance he had not taken in a while, the same stance he had been taught by LycanBlade as a child. He took an iron shield from a dead bandit’s body, and faced the bearman alone, his shoulder pointing towards him, just like he had been taught. The bearman charged at Ben, but he dodged. He then stabbed the bearman through the back and held on as the bearman kept charging. The bear ran up to a guard and mauled him, while Ben continued to repeatively stab the bearman in the back with a small dagger, while holding on to Beast Bane with the other hand. Finally, the bearman pulled out Death Bringer and threw it away. It connected with the side of a house, sticking halfway through.

Then the bearman shook Ben off, along with his silver short sword Beast Bane. The bearman bounded over to the house and pulled Death Bringer out of the wall. He then turned back into his human form, full of bloody wounds, and ran at Ben, slashing with Death Bringer. Ben jumped over the blade and kicked the man in his face, breaking his nose, and then stabbed him through the heart before picking up Death Bringer and making his way towards the nearest bandit. “You may be a berserker, but I’m a Monster Hunter, you never stood a chance.” Ben said with a solemn expression to the berserker’s corpse at him feet.

Itblobboy was busy thinning out the ranks of bandits with balls of magic fire coming from his iron staff, when suddenly he was pounced on by a berserker lion. Itblobboy fell to the ground, his staff skidding away from him, leaving him defenseless to him attacker. The beast slashed at Itblobboy with it’s claws, but itblobboy managed to use a quick spell of repulsion to push the lion away. The lion landed on it’s feet, the spell still trying to push him back, but with his claws extended into the ground he slid to a halt. Itblobboy ran to pick up his staff, but was attacked from behind by a bandit with a sword. He managed to duck under the blade and continued running, picked up his staff, and launched a fireball at the lion. The lion easily dodged the fireball and ran at itblobboy, while at the same time the bandit with the sword also ran at itblobboy.

Itblobboy dropped the phantom staff, and materialized a halberd with his magic, blocking the sword thrust, and swiftly kicked the bandit away with his foot, just as the lion attacked once more. itblobboy swung his halberd at the lion and slashed it across the chest. But it was an eye for an eye as the lion scatched at itblobboy’s face, cutting him deeply and popping his eyeball into a gooey mess that ran down itblobboy’s face, along with blood from his multiple face wounds.

“AAAHHHHH MY EYE ... YOU BASTERD.” Screamed itblobboy as he dropped his weapon and put his hands to his face.

The pain of losing an eye was absolutely agonizing, and the worst part of all was that he couldn't heal lost body parts, that sort of magic was above him. He would have to live with one eye for the rest of his life. Itblobboy held both hands to his face and kneeled down, trying to stop the bleeding with his magic, and the horrible pain that came with it.

The lions face turned human, and laughed before becoming a lions head again and roaring a challenge. The bandit with the sword came closer to the sneering as he did, and raised his sword high, about to chop off itblobboy’s head, when suddenly and captain’s rapier came through the bandit’s back and out through his chest. The bandit looked surpised for a moment, and then his head slumped downwards. He was dead.

The sword came out of the bandit’s back, and behind him was no other than Mandra BroadShield himself. The captain of the guards in Ivarstead.

“I heard that a healer was here to help one of our villagers. We can’t have you die too soon now, you could be useful when this mess is over,” stated Mandra.

Mandra ran to itblobboy’s side.

“Are you alright?” Asked Mandra, with real concern in his eyes.

“I’m fine. Just let me get my hands on that damned berserker. I’m a Healer, not a damn MAGE. But He will PAY for this,” exclaimed itblobboy, gesturing to his eye socket, where there was little left but a gooey white mess, and blood.

The berserker was now human once more, and was smirking at the itblobboy and Mandra with his hand gesturing for them to come closer. “Are you ready to give that fucker a beating?” Asked itblobboy, still holding a hand over his eye, but with his staff in the other.

“To think that I would sink from one of the best of the beautiful city Kanata’s guards to the captain of this shithole, is depressing. I can’t believe my father sent me here!” Mandra complained. “Well, I’m ready when you are." Said Mandra as he gestured at the berserker with his rapier. "Let’s kill that berserker.”

The berserker grabbed itblobboy’s fallen halberd and charged, swinging the thing at Mandra, but Mandra easily parried with his high quality sword and disarmed his opponent. The berserker changed back into a lion and roared at Mandra, just as itblobboy threw a fireball that hit the monster straight in the face, scorching and blistering the flesh of it’s face, and blinding it. “That’s what you get for what you did to my face,” muttered itblobboy. The lion swung its paws blindly, hoping to hit its opponents’. It was simple matter for Mandra to dodge and then cleanly slice off the lion’s head, and it’s body slumped to the ground. “If you can’t take the heat, don’t ask for a fireball,” said Itblobboy as he watched Mandra disappear in the raging storm of a battle.

This is madness, Gaffer thought as he looked at the battlefield. Although there were more dead guards than bandits, two berserkers had already been defeated. Now that those two warriors that had given him so much trouble somehow appeared out of nowhere, they were LOSING. That’s impossible. How did they even GET here.

Well, if you want a job done right, you’ve got to do it yourself.Gaffer thought as he strapped his sniper rifle to his back, and took out his teardrop blade.

Then he ran into battle. Gaffer walked into battle like a man on a pleasant stroll through the woods. With his sword he cut down most of the remaining guards with ease. Gaffer wasn’t an average bandit. He was a coldblooded killer. And he knew it. He would kill all the guards himself if he had too, but he was sick of killing pawns. He wanted to someone more important. And then he saw him. The captain of Ivarstead’s measly guards. Mandra Broadshield.

He would be the perfect opponent. Thought Gaffer as he licked his lips.

A bandit attacked Mandra and he managed to parry. He then swung his sword, chopping off the bandits arm.

The bandit yelled out. “AAAHHHHHH” as he fell to the ground clutching the wound were he arm had been.

Two more bandits ran at Mandra, yelling threats and insults as they did. With a quick slash he beheaded both bandits, their bodies falling to the ground.Mandra walked onwards.

Mandra was looking around the battlefield for more worthy opponent when he saw him. It was Gaffer, the bandit’s leader. The man had a sniper strapped to his back, and was using a teardrop blade to chop and slash through what remained of Ivarstead's guards. His sword a blur, he was cutting down man after man. If this continued there wouldn’t be any guards left, and they would lose the battle. As the captain of the guards, Mandra could not let this happen. He could not let any more of his comrades' blood be shed, and more than that, he would not lose. He would make his father proud. He would kill the bandit leader.

Kronus faced off against the berserker werewolf, throwing a grenade at the beast. But the werewolf simple moved out of the way of the explosion. He then charged Kronus, slashing down on him with his deadly claws. Kronus blocked with his ak47, but the werewolf ripped the gun from his hands, and it tumbled away from him. The werewolf pushed Kronus over, and landed on top of him he tried to bite at the flesh of Kronus's neck, but Kronus was much stronger with his rage ability, and managed to push the werewolf off.

The werewolf’s face turned human for a moment and said, “Your good. But red rage is not comparable to berserk rage. You WILL be defeated. You know that, right?” Chided the berserker werewolf.

“We’ll see about that,” spat Kronus.

Kronus ran at the werewolf, and dodging its claws, and slid beneath the werewolf's legs, then ran to his ak47 and shot at the werewolf, hitting him multiple times. He then threw a smoke grenade. In the smoke, the werewolf couldn’t see him. He knew that the reason why the werewolf wouldn’t go down wasn’t just that he was tough, but because his skin was too thick for the silver bullets to penetrate through the skin. But Kronus had a solution. He walked directly in front of the werewolf through the smoke, and stuck his ak47 forcefully into the berserker’s mouth. After firing three shots the werewolf fell to the ground, dead. Through the berserkers mouth, there was no protection, and the three bullets had penetrated into his brain, killing him.

“I guess red rage was better anyway huh? No response? I guess that means you agree too.” Said Kronus.

The man before him was Gaffer, a high ranking bandit leader with a large bounty on his head. It didn’t surprise Mandra at all that someone like him would be leading an attack like this. He had to get rid of him, and fast before he caused any more damage. And without a leader, the bandits would surely retreat.

“So, the mighty captain of the guards himself is my next enemy?” Laughed Gaffer. “That’s good, I was tired of killing these helpless beings you call guards.”

“At least they have honor,” retorted Mandra.

And with that, Mandra made his move. He attacked with full force, holding nothing back. Gaffer parried the blow, but it was only the first of many. Mandra’s captain’s rapier was meant for fast blows like this, not for heavy blows or blocking though. Gaffer’s sword was good at all three of those things, a sort of jack of all trades. All Gaffer had to is wait for an opening and it would be over.

“Ha! You’re not so tough in person, I thought you’d at least be able to fight back!” Mandra joked.

“Your swing is weak Mandra, why don’t you try a little harder?” Gaffer asked.

“Fine I will!” Yelled Mandra.

Mandra’s attacks got faster and faster until the point where they almost couldn’t be seen, but Gaffer blocked them on instinct alone. Finally, Mandra stopped. He was out of breath. This was the perfect time for Gaffer to strike. But Mandra knew it was coming, and was only pretending to be out of breath, and he cleanly disarmed Gaffer. “Not so tough without a sword now are you?” Asked Mandra. But Gaffer wasn’t out of tricks yet. He dropped a grenade inbetween the two of them, and ran away. Mandra ran in the opposite direction. When the smoke cleared, Gaffer had his sniper out, and sniped Mandra in the head before he could blink.

A large figure approached Ben through the bloody battle that surrounded him. Ben stood in battle posture, ready for anything. But when he saw who it was he was astonished. But he knew that he had to defeat the bandits at all costs. Even if that meant stopping an old friend.

“Brings back memories, doesn’t it?” Asked LycanBlade. “Remember the last time I was here? Well, of course you do. This is where it all began.”

“Why are you here, mercenary?” Asked Ben.

“Come on don't be so tough on me, you know who I am. Tell me what my name is.” Commanded LycanBlade.

“LycanBlade. Your name is LycanBlade. You’re a mercenary. And you were my master.” Said Ben.

“Well, are you ready to fight your master? Or will you let your little village burn to the ground?” Chided LycanBlade.

“If you you make me, then I will do it.” Stated Ben.

Ben charged LycanBlade with Beast Bane and Death Bringer and swung his Death Bringer as hard as he could. LycanBlade stopped the sword with his own, and kicked at Ben’s jaw. Ben dodged and swung Beast Bane at LycanBlade’s chest, where it bounced off LycanBlade’s bladed armor. LycanBlade laughed as he attacked again with his Skull Crusher sword, and Ben ducked under it. LycanBlade threw a hidden dagger at Ben’s face, and Ben caught it with his teeth, and let it fall from his mouth. The two warriors stopped for a moment to catch their breath.

“I don’t understand, you would never have worked with bandits, much less attack a village.” Ben said inbetween breathes.

“Things change Ben. I will reveal my intentions in good time.”

LycanBlade slashed downwards with his sword, and it took all of Ben’s strength and both swords to block the massive blade. Ben was getting tired, but LycanBlade kept on attacking, attack after attack after attack, and Ben couldn’t keep up.

“Years of living in a village running the local tavern has made you weak. Your victory has defeated you.” Said LycanBlade, “While I have been improving my skills and even learning magic. You may have beat me once, but I will always be the master and you are only ever the pupil.” Lycanblade said as he pointed his finger at Ben.

LycanBlade swung his sword, and Ben parried with Death Bringer, but his parry was too weak and the sword fell out of his hands. LycanBlade kicked at Ben’s stomach, and Ben went flying, landing on the ground, but not quite yet defeated. He still held up his sword, Beast Bane. The one that he used to train with LycanBlade. The one he was given by LycanBlade. Suddenly Emily ran at LycanBlade, her own weapon, a two handed mace in her hand. She swung the mace with all her strength but LycanBlade just ducked.

“So, both apprentices this time. This doesn’t concern you Emily, so back off.” Commanded LycanBlade.

Emily swung her mace twice more, but it had been years since she had last fought, and she was already out of breath. LycanBlade hit her in the head with the flat of his blade, knocking her out. He then disarmed Ben with a quick flick of his Skull Crusher. Ben tried to crawl backwards, but it was no use. LycanBlade just walked forward. He put his sword to Ben’s throat and with a smile, said,

“You lose.”

He then withdrew his blade.

“Why?” Asked Ben.

“Because I’m here for the Blood Alter of the Primal, not your life. I’m a BlackHood now. I came here to take the Blood Alter that this town has stolen from us and bring it back to Mad Ricky, where he will awaken it’s true power and the Primal inside it. I came here undercover as a mercenary payed off by bandits to attack this town, but this is my real reason for being here. It’s not the money, it’s not you, it’s just my job. That’s all. Oh, and I’ll be taking that Blood Alter now. And if you try to stop me again, I’ll kill you.” Explained LycanBlade.

And with that, LycanBlade made his way to towards the guards’ barracks, a lone wolf, slaying anyone else who got in his way.

Gaffer looked at the battlefield around him, and saw that there were little to no guards left. Even though there were less then half of the bandits left then he had come with, it looked like they would be victorious. Which meant that the Boss would be very happy. He would have his long awaited revenge. The mercenary was leaving with what appeared to be an old crimson rock. Well, if that guy wanted to dessert, there wasn’t anything him could do about it. This guy was more of a warrior than he would ever be.

He spotted the two warriors that had given him so much trouble, one was on the ground, either dead or knocked out. That was good, but the other…… the other WAS COMING RIGHT TOWARDS him, and he looked pissed off. Wait, was that a red aura coming from him? So he really did possess the red rage ability. Oh, this was bad, this was so bad.

Back in the tavern, inside Melina's mind suddenly Melina remembered who she was, and the nightmare started to end. She could feel the essence of the Primal girl leave her body, as if it was never there in the first place.

“NOOOOOOOO” Yelled the Primal, “I WANT TO LIVE!! I WANT MY REVENGE.” The Primal seemed so weak now, nothing like before.

She almost pitied the Primal. But she wasn't willing to forfeit her life for it. Maybe she could beat it. Suddenly Anilem appeared. She seemed scared and tense, so unlike Anilem, and she may have tried to kill Melina, but Melina was happy to see someone, anyone other than the Primal. There was someone else there too, but he/she was wearing full mage robes and a hood, and didn’t look like anyone she had seen before. But she knew he was there to help. The hooded person yelled magic words at the Primal, and it screamed and then vanished. They were back in the City of Her Soul, but they were hovering above ground. “Hello,” said the hooded figure, “I am Itblobboy, a master healer and minor mage. It appears that someone took the Blood Alter out of this area. If that didn’t happen you would have surely been fully possessed by this being. It’s what is called a Primal. The creators of time and space itself, and the very first form of life. They have been sealed away since the time of the Elder Gods, and are very dangerous. You’re lucky that someone removed the Blood Alter, or you would surely have been completely taken over. Now, follow me. It’s time to wake up, Melina.”

Melina woke up to see that she was in her old room that she used as a child in the tavern she had grown up in. She was lying down on her old bed. Too her left was the cloaked figure she had seen in her dream. She saw that it was indeed male, and was missing an eye. “Hurry girl, we must stop Kronus before he makes a grave mistake.” Kronus, Melina thought. It’s been so long. She remembered his smile, and how she never thought she would see him again, the love that they had was almost destroyed by the Primal. She remembered it all, and cried.

Kronus had the one responsible for all of this in his sights. And he was going to kill him. All the pent up rage at him for what Gaffer had done to Ivarstead was raging inside Kronus like a fire. Kronus dodged a bullet from Gaffer’s sniper and quickly unloaded his entire magazine into the man. Gaffer tried to flee, but was shot down. The remaining 15 bandits rushed Kronus, thinking that numbers could defeat him. Bullets whizzed by Kronus, but he wasn’t afraid. He was so angry that even if the bullets had hit him, he wouldn’t have felt it. He would leave no survivors. He picked up Gaffers sniper and a hunting knife. Two of the bandits closest to him rushed Kronus, Kronus stuck the hunting knife in ones throat, and shot the other in the head with the sniper, all before they could even hope to attack.

Three more followed and Kronus sprayed with his ak47 in the other hand, killing all of them. A bullet hit Kronus’s cheek, and his right leg, but he didn’t even feel it. He dodged several other bullets like it was nothing. He threw all his remaining grenades in his belt. All five of them. The bandits tried to run, but few survived. The rest ran for the forrest, where they were picked off one by one by Kronus with the sniper he took from Gaffer. However Kronus noticed that Gaffer was still alive, and had started crawling away.

Kronus was just about to finish him off when itblobboy yelled “STOP! Haven’t you done enough? How can you kill these people with no remorse?”

That was when Kronus turned the gun on itblobboy. If itblobboy had just come sooner this never would have happened, thought Kronus. He must be punished. Kronus shot Gaffer’s body over and over and over again, until there was barely anything left of him. He was about to kill itblobboy too when Suddenly Melina came out of nowhere and hugged him. And the red rage ability that was controlling his emotions all went away. He realized what he what he should have realized a long time ago. That love, respect, and friendship were far more important that hate, violence, and aggression. And this wasn’t itblobboy’s fault. In fact itblobboy had saved his wife. And when he realized this, he started to cry.

The next day the funeral pyres burned high, turning to ash the dead bodies of bandits, guards, and villagers alike. A few of the remaining guards said a some words for their fallen comrades, and even Itachi Broadshield was there, a legendary war veteran, leader of the guards at Kanata, and the father of the now deceased Mandra.

At this time Ben explained to his daughter Melina and son in law Kronus who he and Emily really were before they ran the tavern, they were Monster Hunters, and explained about their old master LycanBlade stealing the Blood Alter and now being a part of the BlackHoods. He told them of what the blackhoods and Lycanblade planned to do, free the Primals from their prisons and create a new world. And he also told them that the blackhoods were the swore enemies of Highland Fortress. And that he wished for Melina and Kronus to come with him to Highland Fortress and train themselves. And Melina told her parents, Kronus, and itblobboy what had happened in her dreams. Itblobboy was the most interested of the bunch, and asked many questions, also explaining that the Blood Alter stone actually had the spirit of a Primal in it, and that the BlackHoods worshipped these beings and that was probably why LycanBlade stole it. He also explained that the Primal was close to possessing Melina’s body, and if it had succeeded the whole world would be at stake.

Itblobboy explained that Highland Fortress was willing to train both Kronus and Melina in the ways of battle, and opposing the blackhoods. In fact, after a few years of training Melina, Ben, Kronus, and itblobboy all agreed to work together to track down blackhood members and bring them to justice. And so the four returned to Highland Fortress in search of training for an all new adventure.

Who knows what adventures await our four heroes and Kronus?

Find out in Part 4 of The Life Of Kronus!