Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Scholastic Knight in Battle

The Ivory Knights together with foot soldiers and archers marched pass the final town. It is the location of the kingdom’s borders. As soon as the gates open, they shall be left at the mercy of fate. The walls of the outer is made of thick stone varnished with a three inch thick molten werewolf bones. It took over fifty years for the whole barricade to be coated. The exterior layer is ten times harder than metal. It is an insurance that the structure will not collapsed even if the Alpha wolves commence attacks.

The enemy has been defined into three. Beta wolves walk on all fours with deadly claws and fangs. These creatures are agile and main attacks is biting the opponent. Omega wolves can stand upright like a man. Their claws and fangs are not as long as Betas, but it is as agile and has the strength of three grown men. Usually it takes at least mid rank warriors to subjugate this type. The final is the Alpha wolf. It also walks like a man, agile and with the power of equivalent of five men. Compared to Beta and Omega with brown fur, Alpha’s have gray colored fleece. The mane serves like an armor for them. The Alpha can only be defeated by either stabbing the back of its neck or chopping off its right arm. The position is directly connected to the heart making it a vulnerable spot.

Whenever an Alpha emerges at least five combatants are need to assure success. Only the kings of Vanieza are qualified to battle an Alpha one on one. Most knights meet their demise in the hands of this beast. Fortunately Alpha’s is about five percent of the usual battle population. Making the odds a little fairer given an infantry is composed of a hundred men. The Ivory knights boasts of ten infantries, the knights, archers and soldiers count in total is one thousand. Each infantry has a count of twenty knights, thirty archers and fifty soldiers.

The twelve inch werewolf gate rose, signaling the complete departure of the military unit. According to the battle eagles, the possible location of infestation is at the west. The king would only send twenty five percent of the manpower to the suspected area. The seventy five percent would surround Vanieza’s walls. If the concentrations of the beast vary, the battle eagles will send a message which area needs back up. The circular battle formation, is ideal to make sure help arrives from both sides in order to reduce casualties.

The mythical beast, can only fight during the night. As soon as the sun rose, the enemy would retreat. That is why each member of the knights is advised to stay alive until that time. The werewolf bone armor is light weight but as durable as fifteen inch of steel. Having the body covered by it decreases the chance of getting injured by the fangs and claws. However the usual cause of fatality when a warrior is cornered by the herd. So it is necessary to stay close with comrades. Once a combatant strays away he shall be immediately hounded by the beasts.

If such a misfortune occurs, the fallen’s armor is taken and his is burned. According to myth, if a victim is not disposed properly and a small spark of life is still within he evolves into the mindless Alpha wolf. Through out the course of time not all bodies are accounted for. And it was believed, that is what becomes of them.

Irvald’s uncle Lord Max Koan the is first knight in command. The seasoned man has been with the king even before ascending to the throne. His position is always at the right side of the ruler. However unlike the king, he cannot fight until fifty. Now in his forties, the man is ready to pass the sword to his nephew. Which is the reason why the lad now strides at the left of the royal.

The commander in chief, who is the king is aware of this wish. “Max, I would like a word with Irvald.” Nodding the first commander backed of his stallion’s stride leaving space for the two men. 

“How is my daughter fairing with training?” The monarch inquired of the youngster's honest opinion of the princess’ potential.

“Sire, princess Nathalia as strong as a fourth rank knight. However, her highness still needs to learn control.”

 The knight replied objectively. “Nathalia did cause a ruckus back at the castle. I am certain whatever pushed her to do is related to Luvelia.”

 The mention of the heiress names made the warrior’s eye flinch. “In your opinion, second knight, is my younger daughter ready to join small hunts?”

The lad sighed. In strength and agility the second heiress is qualified to do so. But her mind set is still to naïve. The maiden is also very emotional, that could be a liability in battle. It is best to say it all than regret and betray the ruler’s trust. “My liege, I mean no offense but the princess’ female qualities can be a weakness in battle. I suggest that her mental strength must be further worked on.”

The king hummed in response to the opinion. “In truth she and her big sister will always be little girls to me. They are precious and I want to protect them forever. However, we all have our parts to play. Unfortunately, it seems Nathalia will have to train her psychological needs in the field.”

“Your majesty, you shall allow the second princess engage in danger?” The younger could not believe the revelation. What type of father would allow his child be a sacrificial lamb. 

“It is her duty as a member of the house of Vanieza. I have no male heir, at least one of my offspring should be seen in the presence of the Ivory Knights.”

“I have discussed this with the queen since Nathalia was born. We have prepared not only ourselves but her as well.” The king explained. 

“Milord, this mission is kept between the three of you? Why are you entrusting it to me?” The young man queried about the reason of his partaking with this confidentiality.

“Nathalia is trained to protect herself. However the crowned princess is frail and will continuously be in danger. I know your allegiance with the royal house. But as soon as Luvelia ascends to power, protect her with all you have.”

“Milord, you don’t need to request such a thing. I shall serve and protect the future queen with my life.” The combatant reassured. He would do the duty faithfully for it is he reason why their household stands.

“And another thing, my wife has found a liking in you due to your medical capabilities.” It is true since thirteen he has been a knight and a healer. “However Irvald remember, you are a knight then a healer. When a battle is ensuing, subjugate the enemy first before saving other people’s lives. You must survive for others to make it too, is that clear?”

“Yes milord.” The onyx orb male confirmed. “The queen is a doctor. I am familiar with the look demise in a healer’s eyes when a life is lost. Your skill might make you a bit more emotional that the average combatant. So be careful.”

“My liege, thank you for your kind advice. I shall take it to heart.” The black haired man acknowledge. It is true he is a knight first then a healer second.

“Irvald, once this mission is over I need you to go directly Uzedon. I shall give you a map of coordinates. Once there you need to escort someone back home to Vanieza.”

Uzedon? Is that the area where the famed Volhan groove project is located? Does it mean one of the scholars from that area is coming home? A flash of orange stresses and golden irises appeared in memory. That gentle voiced but stern looking tutor, the man whom the crowned princess is very fond of. Will they come across each other in that area? Will he be the one to be escorted back? His hands unknowingly clutched the reins tighter. After all these years, if that educator comes back, will life again be restored in those blue eyes?

It was five years ago when the glint in her orbs changed. He unintentionally witnessed it, while searching for a book about healing herbs . Inside the library, their usual private space.

“Princess Luvelia, starting tomorrow I will no longer be your tutor.” The orange haired male explained. “I have a task that I need to fulfill in order to beat the werewolves. Due t that I must leave.” The educator explained with clarity.

“But Lord Kaema, who will teach me from now on?” The eight year old princess inquired in frenzy. There as desperation in her voice.

“Another member of the house of Maal. Her name is Mathilda, you will like her.” The golden eyed male comforted.

“It will never be the same without you teacher.”

Indeed it never was. Now is the chance to possibly bring everything back.

“As you command milord. I shall gladly do this task.” The knight confirmed. He cannot reject any order from the ruler f course.

“I apologize for sending you alone. But the location is classified. So keep its details an absolute secrecy.” The ruler reiterated.

“My liege thank you for entrusting me. I view it as an honor.” If it will bring back the spark in her eyes. It was a small price to pay. This solo mission, he shall gladly partake and ensure success.

After the short talk the king raised his right arm signaling Max to return to his place. “Max, dispatch everyone as planned. However send a messenger hawk and inform to prepare more Volhan blossoms.” The commander in chief instructed.

“Milord, all the eagles are dispatched with the maximum amount they can carry.” The aid reasoned

“Nathalia has trained thirty hawks to do a similar task. Send information that they be released for back up. Ten in our position, eight for north and south and lastly four at the east. However, the hawks shall be signaled to release their package once the eagle’s supplies are consumed.”

“Your majesty, are you expecting a gruesome fight later on?” Max clarified with the king. They have been in a number of new moon battles. But it seems the king is taking more precautions this time. 

“It is the season of a new moon. The fight is expected to be more dangerous. More precaution will be to our advantage.” The ruler reassured.

Logically it is true. In obedience, Max sent the message that the newly trained battle hawks join the expedition. The king’s infantry headed west the critical area. As each group headed their way, individually each silently prayed for survival.

The strategy is to arrive before sunset. It gives time for the archers to position themselves on higher ground. Foot soldiers would form the outer circular formation and the knights the inner circle. In the middle is the king. Once the enemy began to surround the placement, the battle eagles will drop the blossoms. The scent of the petals will put the creatures in frenzy for at most five minutes. In this span of time the warriors are expected get advantage.

Irvald took a deep breath, the sun is setting. As the last sign of light disappears, a rustling sound of a rush can be heard. Soon a howl could be heard as if signaling the hunt has began. Soon growls resounded in every direction. Illuminated eyes began rise from the shadows. Their fangs bared with saliva dripping at the sides. Looks like this pack is very hungry.

Elusively the attackers surveyed their formation. It was a pack of over twenty Omegas. The enemy pounced in rage, the archers began to aim to either of its four legs. The ones unsuccessfully hit was engaged by foot soldiers. Injured werewolves howled as if seeking back up. Soon twenty Omegas and ten Betas emerged. The Betas with strength began to throw soldiers of formation. Whenever a person is of position, two should follow the fallen’s direction with the aid of archers near the coordinates.

If there are five people out of position the eagles are to release the petals. However, today’s battle is odd. The enemy count is still low. Considering this the king decided to delay the dropping of the blooms. To increase the survival rate of the foot soldiers the ruler signaled five knights to assist the herded fighters. It lead to an opening towards the king. As it was viewable another wave of forty Omegas and twenty Betas emerged.

Assuming this is the maximum count of the nemesis, the king signaled the Volhan blooms be released. As the petals fell the beast went in frenzy. In the span of time the injured where taken in the inner circle. The archers aimed for the Omegas, while the foot soldiers engaged the Betas. It was a long five minutes, cries of pain, rage, howls and resolution mixed altogether. It felt like an eternity passed.

As the last blossom fell, all Omegas were defeated. Ten Betas still upright but severely wounded. Is it finally victory? However this assurance was broken as a scream haunted their ears. Soon, each archer fell one after another. Then from the top of the trees, then Alpha werewolves surfaced. As the gray maned creatures leapt down from the trees, another forty Omegas and twenty Betas appeared.

This was the first time such a number of Alphas was present in fight. Since the archers are eliminated the knights have to dismount their stallions. The horses are trained to defend the inner circle and combat threats approaching it.

“Milord, the Alpha count is to much. We are short handed. Back up is necessary.” The ruler nodded and gave permission to seek reinforcement.

 “As we wait, stand ground. Unfortunately we cannot recover our archers now. However we must stay together and survive till the sun arises.” The battle is only half way of the night. Approximately there is still six hours. Can the infantry survive this span? How about the other groups? Did they encounter the same size of enemy attack.

The Alpha’s began to charge in circular fashion with Omegas and Betas on their tail. The knights decided to engage one Alpha each while the foot soldiers took care of the other beast. The king decided to stay with the wounded and defended them from stray creatures.

Unfortunately as expected Alphas are too strong, it began to over power the knights. Sir Max Koane was nearest to the kings position. In unison they agreed to switch position. Max protects the injured the king engages the gray fleeced terror. The ruler in haste wanted to conclude the fight in urgency so he can assist the next knight. But the battle was taking long and Max could see another knight in trouble. “Commander Koane, please assist Sir Altry. We are only a burden, the infantry must survive.” A soldier boldly stated and the others nodded agreement.

The able tried to stand and positioned the swords. Those who cannot on their knees raised theirs too. In this defensive position they can at least fend away Omegas. Max took the chance and aided the knight in trouble. In doing so, they were able to s***h the right shoulder of the Alpha. Once incapacitated, the gray beast began to retreat. 

The duo decided not to engage further but assist the others. Looking back at their comrades in battle, the two men’s hearts ached. An a herd of werewolves are devouring the wounded soldiers. Judging the area, the fallen men took down some beast too but over powered. The king is seen with two knights fighting off another gray monster.

The twosome decided to split and aid the knights close to them. Checking the area, two to three knights are engaging the Alphas. Meaning at most five of the vicious beasts been defeated or retreated. Where are the reinforcements? They have not fallen too right? And where are the hawks that are supposed to deliver another petal shower?

The teaming strategy seems like not the knights were thinking about it. The Omegas and Betas after having their fill of the victims began to attack the surviving knights and king. Each member is severely fatigued. As some of the members strength began to abandon them, the hawks arrived. On cue the petals where released in the air. Using what energy each had left, all decided to bring damage to the gray ones. In the time they bought, the king was able to bring down one and with the help of three other knights defeated another. However their luck is wearing thin, there are still three gray fleeced beasts. Plus about five Betas and and ten Omegas.

As the effect of the blossom is to fade the king shouted. Max and Altry, engage the Omegas. The rest take on the on the Betas, work in pairs. Stay close and I will take care of the remaining Alphas. Once done anyone can assist me. Entrusting the king’s instruction each went about their tasks..

With intense valor before the time was up the ruler was able to take down another gray maned enemy. Reducing the creatures number to two. The duo cleaning up the Omegas are almost through and are also engaging Betas. While Irvald with two other knights are engaging an Alpha.

Surrounding the silvery monster, the second knight too the chance and leaped on it back. Using his strength to push the beast face flat on the ground. The moved managed to throw the creature off balance but more weight is necessary to put it down. Two more knights jumped in to add more weight. The combined effort successfully thrown down the enemy down. Using the dagger on his waist band Irvald stabbed the nemesis. Wailing in pain the villain shuddered and awaited death.

Unknowingly two Betas pounced on the two knight who helped Irvald. He gathered energy to help the but his vision caught the king still fighting the Alpha. His companions screamed at him to go to the ruler. Burden with a heavy feeling Irvald ran towards the monarch. The distance was too far. Lifting up his right hand gripping the dagger the aimed, for the Alphas shoulder.

Seeing the weapon approaching the beast withdrew from king buying the royal a few seconds to recuperate. Max and Altry who were closer, positioned themselves by the crowned side. Hoping their presence can assist in possible victory. The monster charged once again and the two knights shielded the king. Irvald pushed his legs to run faster, but his stamina was failing. The beast managed to throw the two knight away and viciously eyed the majesty.

Irvald with determination kept sprinting. At all cost the majesty must survived. Its Princess Luvelia’s eighteenth birthday, the queen entrusted him to protect the ruler and the second heiress Nathalia expressed faith in him. A feet away, using his acceleration, the knight glided and lifting his sword aimed to stabbed the antagonist waist.

Again the creature anticipated his plan and turned its attention the sliding warrior. Seeing the change in position, the combatant realigned his sword to block the attack. Using both hands the knight managed to wedge the werewolf’s fangs. With the enemy’s mouth caught on his sword using leverage he tried to throw the antagonist off. But the thing weighs too much he barely has power left to execute the plan. However as the monster was preoccupied with him, the king managed to stab its back. As the body of nemesis shook, Irvald took the chance to slip away from beneath it. If it falls directly the impact can break his ribs.     

Glancing his surroundings, some knights are still finishing off Betas, all Omegas have fallen while there are about seven Alphas that has fallen. Pushing himself up the knight approached the crowned and offered a vial of liquid. “Your highness, the queen told me to give this to you once the battle is over.” The second knight panted.

 “There is still fighting the battle is not over.” The royal replied.

“Your highness, I believe it will help you recover. Please take it my liege.” the younger begged and continued to held out the container. Receiving the contraption, the ruler ingested the liquid. Upon consuming, his wounds began to close and his bruises healed. Having found revitalization, the monarch scurried to attack the Betas still fighting. 

Irvald took the opportunity to come to his uncle’s side. Reaching the unconscious elder, based on assessment the man is still breathing. However, he must have suffered a concussion. He cannot directly move him, since it might alleviate the injury. At the other side Sir Altry seems breathing but too weak to move.

After a few moments the king and two other knights approached him. While the other three went towards the other warrior. Whistling aloud a surviving stallion approached Sir Altry’s side and the injured man was mounted on it.

“We need a stretcher for Max.” The king stated. “Check any remnants of spears in good shape. And using our flag form a makeshift stretcher.” The two knights went on their way. 

“It will be okay I we carry him together right? I will take him by the knees, you take the shoulders and his head.” The monarch inquired to the young knight. 

“Yes milord, it can be done.” In coordination the two men carried the unconscious to the center, were the remaining survivors regrouped.

 “Will the makeshift stretcher withstand the trip? Gather more spears, so we can make a solid stretcher.” The royal instructed and gazed his surroundings. Check for anymore survivors and bring them here.” The king whistled loudly again to call any remaining surviving stallions. From the woods Irvald’s steed Brawn emerged limping. It seems he was bitten while chasing away Omegas.

Miraculously there were two archers who did not fall from trees. The wounds the attained are severe but their will power to survive aided them. Irvald cleansed the wounds and bandaged each carefully. Beneath the rubble of soldier, one was found still breathing. He had a broken leg, using a broken spear, the healer knight positioned the injury in place. Sadly that day they lost two knights.

“The reinforcements never came.” one of the warrior uttered. “Have they suffered the same fate?” the other commented. “Prayerfully no, we never encountered this much Alphas before. Maybe its due to the full moon.” The later answered.

Among the scattered the group was able to rescue five more. The causality ranged from chest wounds, dislocated shoulders and broken arms. Each was meticulous treated by the second knight. After a few moments more the sun began to rise. As it takes its place in the sky, sizzling sounds resounded. The flesh of the werewolves are burning under the rays.

“Milord? Shall we gather the bones of the beasts?” The eldest knight Hague inquired.

“No gather all the fallen, we need to conduct the burial.” The royal answered. 

“Sire, it will the first time for us to have this mass cremation. We would need a ton of wood.” The later replied. 

“We cannot take any chances. Send a hawk once again and seek reinforcements. We need to finish before noon.’ The monarch reemphasized. 

“As you wish milord.”

After an hour, back up came but lesser than expected. A total of ten members who looked just as strained. Their eyes widened in horror at the sight. Too many bodies of the dead. The atmosphere reek of blood. The newly arrived fell to their knees. “Your highness, forgive us our tardiness.” Tears threatening to fall from their eyes . 

“All fought valiantly. I am thankful you survived. Tell me how is your infantry?” The royal inquired.

“Milord, our group encountered three Alphas, numerous Omegas and Betas. We could not spare any manpower until the sun arose.” The men explained. 

“Are all your knights well?” The ruler queried.

“Sire infantry three lost two knights while engaging the gray monster.”

“My liege, infantry two lost one knight and another severely injured. We don’t know if Sir Visca can survive the trip.” The other answered. 

“I see, more Alphas are breeding based on the situation.” The crowned concluded. “Reinforcements aid in gathering the fallen. As soon all are accounted for, tag their helmets. We shall give it to their families as proof of their valor. Spread the order.”

Using the whistle on Max’s chest Irvald called the messenger hawks. Together with the king, they speedily wrote the order and set the birds away immediately. “Sire will the werewolves attack again tonight?” The young knight inquired. 

“Based on Luvelia’s reading the moon will be full tonight. Like us the herds encountered huge loss. I think they cannot regroup immediately but we still need to stand guard.” The monarch explained.

“My liege, we do not know how much of the of the group survived. And the assurance that they can still fight…” The king patted the younger’s shoulder.

 “We live and die protecting Vanieza. Cor Lever my boy.” The healer bowed in shame, of course how can he forget his duty?