Hello there, everyone!

I'm back, but this time with something VERY different from what you're used to see here. This, is my first ever ORIGINAL STORY!

*Applause*

Yeah, I've been trying to write this book for a WHILE now. The original book I wrote is, well used to be, 45 chapters long, 200k words. Before I lost it. As in, I never saved anywhere else before I lost the archive. But that's fine, I'll just write it again! This time in English, just so everyone can enjoy (I hope)!

So... yeah! Original story! Since everything is, well, original, I prooobably won't take like 3 months to write a chapter, but that's all assuming this chapter goes well, and I'm not hit by writer's block!

Also, the book cover I'm using right now is NOT the permanent one! I'm working on a book cover with the help of a buddy of mine, and I'll change it to something better real soon, just wait!

So without further ado, if you ever wondered how my writing is when I'm not bound by the limitations of a fanfiction, here it is, ladies and gentlemen! My own book!

Arcana...

...Imperium.

Book 1 BTW.

~~~

There were no signs...

It happened without warning, yet it changed the world forever.

It changed the understanding of life...

...and death.

It changed some things for the better, but it also changed a lot for the worse.

Some considered it a blessing, while others still consider it a curse.

Suddenly, everything they thought they knew about the universe, shattered in a million pieces.

Thousands of years ago, long before the first traces of intelligent life roamed the earth, a  comet hit the planet, putting an end to all but a few lifeforms. But it wasn't alone. Within the comet's debris came thousands of precious gems, raining down all over the planet. These gems were filled with a mysterious energy, an energy that would lie dormant for years to come, until the time was right.

Many years later, after The Great Cataclysm, as the scholars would begin to call the event, the races that roamed the world would begin to wage wars for power and dominion. It took a while to be discovered, but still...individuals around the lands were selected to be blessed with a strange energy.

Mana, Magicka, Chi, Chakra... different names, different cultures, the same power. The power to reshape matter itself. To create fire, to raise mountains, to rule the waves, to control the winds. And that's just a fraction of it's capabilities.

It almost put an end everything.

An army of darkness. Orcs, Trolls, Goblins, and other creatures spawned from the dephts, spearheaded by a fallen wizard, a twisted man, driven only by a blind lust for an immeasurable power; Necromancy. It was something never before seen, at least in this level. The undead have always been a thorn on the side of many races, but never something that couldn't be dealt with. The wizard managed to unite the armies of darkness under one banner, using fear alone.

Many battles were fought throughout the years, which only made the Necromancer stronger as he raised the fallen to fight on his side. Humanity knew they would lost if they fought the evil alone.

And so they sought out the help from other races. Dwarves, Elves, even treaties with barbarian beasts. None answered the call for aid.

Knowing that was a battle men would have to fight and win alone, orders of warriors across the world had to throw aside their differences and unite under one banner, once mortal enemies, now valuable allies, for the sake of the greater good.

Within this strange alliance, one knightly order stood above the others. Knights chosen seemingly randomly from within the ranks of the newly formed Empire. Strangely enough, these knights had a strange, powerful force driving them forward, and little by little, changing the tides of war throughout the years. No mere mortal was enough to defeat hundreds if not thousands of enemies without breaking a sweat, their legendary streak of winning battles would soon be known throughout the lands. This knightly order would be known as "The Knights of Santiago."

Leading the alliance forward they drove the forces of darkness back to the shadow. Some say, they were the ones to pierce the Necromancer's heart, finally putting an end to the age of darkness.

It all happened no less than 100 years ago.

The war changed the world, but it wasn't for the better for long. The alliance had a common enemy, and without it, the feeble chains that held them together soon broke apart. Those kingdoms that once were allies would soon return to their origins and to wage war against each other.

It all began in a small village, nothing more than a little hamlet. Santiago, named in honor of the knightly order. Some say it was around these parts the first knight of the order brought victory. Roads of dirt and a few stone houses still in the process of being built, a single stone watchtower watching over the people. Here they lived happy lives, the crops grow healthy, as does the livestock. Soon a Lord will be appointed to look over the village, and hopefully built it up into something more.

The roads are busy with something, the peasants are excitedly waiting on the sides of the road, with petals and flowers in hand. The town is decorated in order to recieve royal retinue that is about to cross through the town, hopefully to also meet their appointed Lord.

"Hurry up, mom! We're gonna miss the knights!" Yelled a little boy, no older than five years old. Dark Medium-lengh hair, blue eyes, shining with anticipation. Wearing simple, yet comfortable clothes, blue tunic and fur coat, brown trousers. He frantically waved his hand for his mother to follow him. She laughed watching his excitement.

"Slow down, Montes!" She walked behind him, holding her green dress, adorned with yellow and red roses. She has a beautiful, long, blonde hair, shining as gold strings under the light of the sun, her blue eyes are like pearls. "The retinue hasn't arrived yet!" She insisted, but the boy didn't pay any mind.

He ran to the main road where the retinue was gonna pass through. It was already filled with people, which made him frown in annoyance, with that many people in the way, he couldn't see the knights. He crossed his arms with a pout.

"I told her we should be here early!"

As he said that, the people around began to cheer as the retinue arrived in the town. Thew all threw the petals and roses as the knights passed along with the Lord leading the way.

"Montes?" She looked around for her son, but didn't find him in the middle of the people.

The boy made his best to run in between the people to try and get a glance of the knights, pushing, by leaps and bounds, until he finally managed to find a spot where he could see the knights.

His eyes gleamed at the sight. He had only heard stories about them, Heroes clad in armor, wearing the heraldry of the kingdom in their tunics and shields. Their horses stand as tall as their masters, also clad in armor, slowly galloping with elegance. One of the knights caught his attention the most. A stunning woman, with short, black hair and green eyes. She noticed his struggle to have a good glance at the knights, and stopped by the crowd of people, reaching her hand down to the paralyzed boy.

"Come on now... up you go!" She smiled as the people encouraged the boy to take her hand. As he did, the knight pulled him, sitting him down in her front, taking the gleeful boy for a ride. "Hold on tight!" She said, leading the horse forward.

The boy was fascinated. Never once he felt quite the way he did in that moment as he watched his people's smiles, as he watched the emotion those heroes brought forward, the hope in everyone's eyes.

"Montes?" His mother called, glancing around the crowd. But once she saw where he was, she simply smiled, happily waving back at her son.

After the retinue crossed the village, the knight returned to bring the boy back to his family.

"I believe this little knight is yours?" She dismounted, helping the boy down.

"Yes he is." Mother grabbed his hand. "I'm sorry about that!"

"There's nothing to worry!" The knight rubbed his head. "I'm Vivianne Bellerose, may I know your name?" She asked.

"I'm, uh..." He nervously looked around. "M-M-M-Montes, Montes De Leon!"

"I admire your bravery, little knight. Maybe one day we'll meet each other again!" She smiled.

Montes didn't know what to say, simply smiling back.

"I'm Angeline De Leon, I'm sorry if he caused any trouble!"

"No worries, really!"

The knight returned to her retinue, as Montes and his mother returned home.

"So... what did you think?" She asked.

"It was awesome!" He replied with enthusiasm, throwing his arms in the air. "When I grow up, I wanna be just like that lady!"

"I'm glad!" Mother beamed. Suddenly, she stopped, coughing, holding her mouth as she did so.

"Mom?"

"It's nothing, don't worry! Let's get back home, your father must be worried about us!"

"Right!"

The two kept going forward, but when she looked at her hand, it was bloodied.

"I don't have much time.." She thought. "Sorry, Montes... I'm afraid I won't be able to see you like you wish."

The two arrive home, a humble house made of mostly stone, for their home is also their source of income, a Smithy. Right in front of the Smithy stands a hanging sign, a shield. A squared symbol, sporting the colors black and yellow. On the top left square is a lion, on the bottom right an eagle, the remaining squares have horizontal, stylized lines.

As the two arrived, they saw a bulky man hammering metal. Around forty years old. Short, black hair, wearing a leather apron over a white shirt, mustache and beard as facial hair.

As he saw the two the man stopped hammering, wiped his hands on the apron and walked their way with a limp.

"Where were you two?" He asked.

"We went to see the knights!" Exclaimed Montes.

"That's great!" The man patted his head. Montes ran inside the house. "I told you not to bring him there."

"Martin... it's his dream."

"I know it is, but..." He laid down the hammer to the side. "I don't want him to experience what I did." Martin looked at his hand, trembling for some reason.

Angeline gently moved his face to meet her eyes. "It will be fine. I don't have much time, that's why I need tou to promise you will be around to support him when the time comes."

Martin looked reluctant for a second. "I promise."

"Good!" Angeline looked up to the blue skies. "I feel the world has changed... you should prepare him for anything."

And so the days winters came to pass, as an age war inched closer and closer. An age only for the bravest of hearts. An age of fire...

...And death.

ARCANA IMPERIUM - BOOK 1 - KNIGHT

10 years later...

The little boy grew up to become a blacksmith, following the steps of his father, who taught everything he knew, and more.

Martin was once a soldier. Fought through numerous battles. He knew his son's dream of following the same path one day, and as promised to his wife, he didn't hesitate to pass down everything he knew. All of his experience.

Montes grew up to be as skilled wielding a blade as he was hammering metal, something he quickly picked up throughout the years.

In this particular day, the town that once was a village, Santiago, was lively, more than the regular.

Today, is a very special day.

Every town in the kingdom hosts once every year a small tournament. A test to any and all low born teenagers to test themselves, to earn a chance to join the ranks of the army. To build themselves up, to learn, to grow, and to hopefully one day join the elite of the Kingdom; the Knights.

A Knight. A title that once symbolized the very top of the military ranks, now symbolizes that and so much more, especially since the increased magical and beastly threats.

Not everyone can become a knight, but a knight can be anyone.

The town is experiencing an increase in visitors who aim to join the tournament. Since Santiago is a relatively "new" town, the chances of "standing out" in the midst of so little competition increase.

Amidst the sounds of animals, people, and so much more within the lively city, the distinctive sound of metal hammering metal stands out.

Montes, now 17 years old, helps his father around the shop by hammering a sword into shape, little by little, putting thought in every swing. With medium dark hair, and the beginning of a respectful mustache and goatee forming on his face. Standing taller and well built from all the training and hard work put into his craft, he reminds a lot of his father and carries his mother's blue eyes.

"20 silver for a simple sword?! Come on, Montes! That's WAY too much! It's not even dwarven steel, or elven!" Complained a customer. Another teenager looking to join the tournament. His armor and shield showing his naivete by trying to stand out, to draw attention to himself.

"You want to buy a sword made of those fancy materials you shouldn't be looking in a small town away from the main city. Good luck trying to get a caravan full of THOSE materials all the way over here!" Replied Montes, still keeping an eye on his craft. He then turned around, to take away the still burning hot metal. "Have you seen the amount of people here today? I've got my work cut out for the week. I can't make cheap prices. Supply and demand. Take it or leave it."

"Come on, man!" The customer insisted, reaching over the counter, grabbing his shoulder.

When suddenly, he stopped, hearing an angry growl coming from under the counter.

As the customer looked down, he saw a small wolf, angrily growling at him.

"W-Woah, easy there, little guy!" He let's go of Montes' shoulder. "Good doggy!"

Montes chuckled as he quenched the metal.

"It's a she, and she's a wolf." He corrected. "Her name is Juniper."

"Since when do you have a do-...wolf?"

"Since when I found her under a shrub of juniper berries. Her pack was hunted by wolves I guess." He sat the sword down. "So, are you gonna pay for it or what? I guarantee you it's good quality, I made it myself."

The customer sighed, and hesitantly pulled out a pouch, grabbing the 20 silver coins to pay.

"Here you go. You better be right about that."

"Heh, you won't regret it." Montes grabbed the customer's sword, handing it to him.

He grabbed the blade, taking it off the scabbard. "Woah!" He whistled in surprise. "Nice work. Y'know what, forget about what I said about the 20 silver." He swung the blade around, trying it out."

"Yeah, spread the word around."

The customer then sheathed the sword again, wrapping the belt around his waist.

"What about the tournament. Are you joining this year?" He asked. "I've seen lots of people from other towns and villages already here."

"You bet!" Answered Montes. "I'll be there!"

"Sounds good. I'll see you there!" He walked away, waving.

Montes then walked back over to the counter, looking around the town.

"There's really lots of people this year, don't you think, Juniper?" He looked down. The little wolf looked back, tilting its head in confusion.

"Is this one ready?" Asked Martin, joining his son upfront.

"Oh, yeah." Replied Montes. "I just quenched it with snow troll fat."

"Good man!" Praised Martin.

The old man noticed his son glanced over to the streets, an uneasy look in his eyes.

"Something wrong, Montes?" He questioned, still focused on his job.

"Huh?" The young man returned his attention to his own work. "Nothing. I'm just thinking about the tournament, that's all."

"Tomorrow is the first day, isn't that right?"

"Yes sir. Been thinking about it all week."

"There's nothing to worry about. Keep your mind clear, and you will do just fine."

"I thought you were against the idea of me joining the ranks of the kingdom."

"I was once, yes. No longer. For that is what you dream of ever since you were a kid." Martin approached his son, touched his shoulder, and looked in his eyes. "Montes... being a soldier means a lifetime of duty. It can be a heavy burden. Your mother would've wanted you to follow the path of your choosing, and I'll help you in every step of the way."

"Thanks, Dad." The youngster nodded. "I will do my best."

"I'm sure you will."

Martin turned back, a pile of swords and armor were still yet to be completed.

"Make sure you eat well and sleep early tonight. You will need every ounce of strength tomorrow."

"Yes sir."

Montes grabbed a pile of metal, still needed to be beaten into shape.

"Come, Juniper." He called, and the little wolf happily followed. "We're gonna get you a big steak!"

Martin observed the scene, a little smile on his face. When suddenly he coughed, covering his mouth with his hand. He wasn't surprised to see blood as he did it. Quickly he wiped his hand and mouth, hiding what happened from his son.

Later that day, after an entire day of hard work, they closed the shop as the sun went down and the streets slowly grew silent, the complete opposite of the busy day it was.

Montes, in his own room, finished working on his own armor, the one he would wear in the upcoming tournament.

"Now I'm just gonna..." He hammered the final link of the mail. "There!" He lifted the chain mail, now ready to be worn. Shiny, sturdy. A true testament of his skill. "Damn I'm good!"

Juniper, who sat down by his legs, looked up, tilting its head again in confusion.

"This will help me a lot, Juniper. It will impress the judges and improve my chances."

Again, the little wolf simply tilted its head to the other side this time.

"Heh, come on, let's go to sleep now." He blew the fire from the nearest candle. "Tomorrow is the big day."

Before he headed to bed, he took a final look outside, where the full moon illuminated the dark skies, along with thousands of stars. No doubt a sign of good fortune.

"It's gonna be a good day."

~~~

The crowing roosters marked the start of another day, and as soon as he woke up, Montes was already getting ready to move out.

Quick as a blink he devoured a light breakfast and was already donning his armor.

"Fits like a glove!"

"Don't forget a surcoat to make it look even more professional." Reminded Martin from the other room.

"Oh, right!" Montes quickly went to look for a surcoat.

In the meantime, Martin looked for something at a secret compartment hidden under the floorboards.

After moving a couple of them, he pulled out a box. Not particularly tall, but particularly long.

The box alone seemed to be a heavy burden on his shoulders as he slowly, with all care in the world removed it from its resting place.

As he opened the box, it was clear why that was such a burden to him. Within the box, a longsword.

It seemed to be just a regular longsword, but from the look in his eyes, there was no doubt the blade was so much more. For a second, Martin looked at his hands as he remembered all he had gone through using that very blade in his younger days.

Slowly he took the sword from the box, taking it from its scabbard, taking a look at the still sharp edges of the blade. The cross guard adorned with chevrons on each end, as well as at the pommel of the blade. That sword had lots of stories to tell.

"Father, I'm already going..." Montes stopped mid sentence as he saw his father kneeled down. "Is everything alright?" He questioned.

"I can't you take your first step towards becoming a knight with just any old sword now, can I?"

"Oh, no, no, it's fine, father. I can just use one of the ones I made." Montes waved his hands in denial. "I can't use your sword, I'm not ready yet."

"Trust me. You are." Martin insisted, offering the sword.

Montes sighed, uncertain of it. But finally accepted, taking the sword from his hands, instantly taking it from the scabbard to admire it.

"It's in perfect condition, even after all this time."

"Come on, now. Are you calling me an amateur?" Joked Martin.

"Not at all. Thank you, father. I'll take care of it!"

"Your mother would be proud."

"You really think so?"

"Absolutely. That's what she wanted too."

"Then I'll make you proud as well, father."

"I'm sure you will. Winning this tournament is gonna be easy now."

"Of that I'm certain." Smiled Montes. "And speaking of which, I have to go now!" He headed out. "I can't arrive late, that would be an awful first impression!"

Montes walked out in a hurry, didn't even notice Juniper running by his side.

"Oh! I almost forgot about you." He said looking down at the little wolf pup. "You stay, I go. No following."

Once again Juniper looked confused, but after some sort of bark, she sat down as instructed.

"Good girl! I'll see you when I get back!" And he walked away.

As he walked, he saw a strange, purplish cloud in the distance, approaching the town.

"Rain?" He wondered, before shrugging off and walking away.

~~~

The lad walked through the streets of Santiago, that just like the previous day, seemed to be full of life from all the visitors from other towns and villages coming to either watch or participate in the annual tournament. A healthy amount of livestock could also be seen, sometimes roaming the streets. Pigs, cows, chickens, the town was thriving with the passing of the seasons. A town certain to become a big city in the near future, even though there were no ports from which the majority of the wealth of the biggest cities come from. Commerce being by far the biggest source of income.

By itself, the tournament was already a big attraction, even more so when it happened in a smaller hamlet where the chances of standing out within the participants drastically increased.

As he walked through, greeting friends, neighbors, a little boy who spotted him from afar came running as he saw the young man.

"Montes!" He Exclaimed. "You're going to the tournament right?!"

"If it isn't little Bernard. How are you doing buddy?"

"I'm doing great!"

Bernard, a little boy, no older than 10 years old. Short brown hair, hazel eyes. His face dirty from playing with the other kids in the town. A dirty green shirt and brown pants, sandals. He was from a modest family, who still could find their own fortune in the city.

"So you'll finally become a Knight today?!" He asked with excitement.

"Heh!" Montes chuckled. "I think it's a little too early for that, but I'll certainly try." He rubbed the hair of the boy. "Speaking of which, where's your brother?" He glanced around.

"There you are, Bernard. You shouldn't run off like that!"

"Big Bro! I found Monty!"

"Oh, Monty. You're here. Good."

"Ed. You're ready?"

"Yeah, let's go."

Edgard. Bernard's older brother. The same age as Montes. He sports a Mohawk on the same color as his brother, as well as the same eyes. Well built, after all, just like Montes, he also seeks an opportunity to join the ranks of the kingdom.

His weapons of choice, unlike Montes, are the heater shield and arming sword, both made by Montes himself a while back. He also wears a simple chainmail armor, without the surcoat however.

"You lucky bastard, you saved the best sword for yourself AND you found a nice surcoat!"

"They were my father's." Montes explained himself.

"Makes sense. Come on, Bern."

"Okay!" The little boy marched along the two. "Can I carry your shield, Big Bro?"

"Sure, if you think you can."

"Of course I can!"

Bernard struggled, but with a little bit of perseverance he managed to wrap the strap around his chest and carry the shield on his back.

"Would you look at that! What a nice Squire you'll make!" Said Montes.

"Yes!" Agreed Bernard.

The three kept on walking towards the arena, where the tournament would take place. They could already see a few soldiers marching, patrolling the streets. A few of them already enjoying a mug of beer at the nearest tavern.

"Look at this place, I've never seen Santiago so crowded." Commented Edgard, grabbing a green apple from his backpack.

"Yeah. Most of them are outsiders from other villages. They're trying to take our spots in the tournament. They think it will be easier since this is a smaller town." Replied Montes.

"Makes sense." Said Ed with a mouthful of apple. "We're not gonna make things any easier for them however. They'll see."

"You got that right."

"We're gonna show em what we're capable of!" Said Bernard.

Both boys looked down to the kid who carried the shield with all of his might, and laughed.

"You too, Bernard?"

"Yes! I'll be cheering you on!"

A few steps later, as they walked at the front of a Tavern, one of the customers spotted them, and quickly raised his mug to greet them.

A man who looked like he'd seen better days. An old gambesson armor, as well as leather pouches. A scabbard that barely held itself together and a sword, worn boots.

The man had short brown hair and a full beard, green eyes, and the overall look of a stereotypical drunk.

"Montes, Edgard! You're here!" He said, in a drunk speech way, barely keeping himself up.

"Oh, it's Louis." Montes waved. "Hello there!"

"The day barely started and you're already this drunk, Louis?" Questioned Edgard.

"I stayed here aaaalll night. *hiccup.* You're going to the tournament, eh?"

"Yes. You said you'd be there." Remembered Montes.

"That *hiccup* will have to wait."

In a swing of his leg, Louis fell down, face first to the ground, immediately losing his mug of booze and immediately falling asleep, much to the entertainment of the other drunks.

"God...he needs some help." Said Ed, worried.

"He'll be fine." Affirmed Montes. "He always recovers."

"Can't really blame the guy for drawing his sorrow in a mug of booze. Going through the hell he went through? That's gotta leave a scar."

"That's true." Agreed Montes.

"You think we'll go through the same?"

"It's a risk I'm willing to take."

"Me too... but." Ed seemed nervous. "I hope not!"

A few minutes later, the three had arrived at the arena. Already packed with other teenagers looking for a chance to build themselves up within the ranks of the kingdom.

People from nearby villages, just as the two had thought.

"Alright, Bernard. Give me my shield and go find a good seat to enjoy your old brother kick these guys' asses."

"Yes sir!" Bernard returned the shield, saluted, and ran away like the wind.

An official from the event explained to the candidates how the tournament would work this year. There were multiple categories and ranks they could fight for, one only needed to sign up at what they thought they would fit better.

By far, the most signed trial was the Knight trial.

It was by far the most difficult to actually earn an opportunity.

"Not gonna lie, Monty. I'll sign up for the Knight trial, but the Men-At-Arms looks easier to get a chance. Plus, you can still get a promotion."

"IF you're good enough, and that takes time." Said Montes.

"Look at these guys." Edgard pointed at the candidates. By the looks alone, they all seemed to come from noble families. Better quality weapons, armor. Everything.

Montes took a quick glance and made his decision.

"I'll take my chances."

"Alright...I'll go ahead and sign up, you coming?"

"You can go ahead, I'll just listen to everything they have to say, and I'll be right behind you."

Edgard went on ahead to sign himself to the trials as Montes heard the officials. They didn't have much to add besides a few rules, rules he would have to pass along to his friend who foolishly decides to leave beforehand.

When suddenly, Montes heard a familiar voice coming from behind.

"Looks like you're ready to fight, Montes."

He immediately remembered who it was, there was no mistaking, that sweet voice could only be one person. He then turned back to see her.

"Vivianne!" Montes walked up to the knight. "You're here!"

"I couldn't miss your first tournament, could I?" Vivianne hugged the little knight, who wasn't so little anymore. "You're all grown up!" She grabbed his face by the cheeks, looking in his eyes.

"Awh, stop that." He blushed. "It's good to see you again."

"It's good to see you too!" She let him go. "You're all grown up! How are you?"

"Trying to do better!"

"How's your father?" Questioned Vivianne. "Still making top quality armor I'm sure!"

"He is, haven't lost his touch yet."

"And your mother?"

Montes glanced down, rubbing his nape.

"She's..." He couldn't answer, yet she knew exactly what that meant.

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't know."

"It's ok. She passed away a while ago, from her sickness."

"I'm really sorry to hear that. I'm sure she would've loved to see you now."

"I hope so."

"Well, you're here for the tournament, right? I'm sure you're eager to join!"

"Oh, right. I still need to sign up."

"That won't be necessary." Vivianne stopped him.

"Huh?" Wondered Montes. "Why?"

"Fully fledged knights like myself are able to give recommendations. And I have given your name."

"WHAT?!" Montes couldn't believe.

"Yes. You'll need this." Vivianne gave him an envelope.

Montes quickly opened the envelope, and within it, a letter, in which stated that he was indeed a recommended candidate.

"I-I can't take this."

"It's ok, Montes. I believe you're ready. This won't give you a victory immediately, you still need to fight for it. It's just a... formality of sorts. All you have to do is choose which trial you'll be taking, although I'm pretty sure I already know which one you will go for."

"I-I..." Montes was still uncertain about that. "Thank you. It means a lot!"

"Don't mention it. Now, all that's left is to impress me, and the other judges! Show me how far you've come!"

"You'll be a judge?!"

"Of course! I'll see it personally which one of everyone here gets to join my Retinue!"

"That...doesn't make things easier." Montes was scared now.

"Now go. The tournament is about to start." She shoved Montes to the other direction.

"Thanks again!" Montes waved. He had a dumb face from just looking at that letter.

"Come on, Monty! We don't have all day!" Edgard returned with his own document confirming his admission in the tournament. "Hey! Where'd you get that?!"

"I was recommended!"

"By who?!"

"An old friend of mine!"

"Man, you never told me you had a knight friend!"

"Of course I did, you never believed me!" Replied Montes. "Now let's go, I still need to choose which trial I'll take."

"Oh, right!"

The two entered the arena, where an official waited behind a table. And behind the official, a handful of shields on the wall, each one representing a different trial they could take.

"Recommendation, huh? What's your name?"

"Montes. Montes De Leon."

"De Leon. Oh, I see. Vivianne recommended you, then. Choose your trial, use that Lance." The official pointed towards the weapon.

Montes grabbed the Lance and touched the shield representing the knight trial.

"Knight? Good luck." The official grabbed his Recommendation letter and handed Montes his admission letter.

Now, all that was left, was to fight. And win.

~~~

Montes and Edgard joined the other candidates in a preparation room. Filled with weapons and armor, if the need for one of those by one of the candidates ever rises.

Two by two they called their names.

The knight trial. The hardest trial of all the ranks one could get in a tournament.

It starts with a duel. The first competitor to strike their opponent 3 times wins.

That is, however, only a fraction of the trial. Other tests consisting of horseback fighting, jousting, bow and arrow, among other things, follow after, IF the candidate manages to get through the previous trial.

It can happen through a victory, or through choice of the jury.

A candidate could theoretically win all trials and still get rejected by the jury. Or a candidate could lose at one or more trials and still have a chance through the chance of the jury.

Two by two the names were called to the first trial, the tension growing ever stronger. Some winners, some losers. Still, the smartest could always go for a lower rank, should they lose their chance in the knight trials.

"Man this tension is killing me." Ed checked the armors available. "Hey, maybe I'll take one of these helmets!" He grabbed a nasal helmet. "How do I look?"

"Goofy." Replied Montes plainly.

"You once said you don't like helmets right?"

"Yeah."

"Why?" Questioned Ed.

"Why would I miss the wind in my hair?" Smugly replied Montes.

"That's the most stupid thing I've ever heard you say."

When suddenly, an official called his name.

"Edgard Haringoth!"

"Oh, yeah! It's my time to shine!" Ed grabbed his sword and shield. "I'm ready!"

"Follow me." Said the official.

"Good luck, Ed!" Said Montes.

"Won't need it! I got this in the bag!"

"Heh... careful with that ego."

Montes glanced outside through the window, he could see that strange cloud getting closer.

"I hope it doesn't rain when I get out there."

Minutes later, Edgard returned, happy as a clam, with victory shining in his eyes.

"I did it!" He yelled, throwing his arms in the air. "I moved on to the next trial!"

"Great job, Ed!" Montes joined his celebration.

"That pompous, noble prick! He thought it would be an easy victory! Peasants can fight too!"

"That's right!" They did a manly handshake.

"Montes De Leon." The official called the next name.

"Oh? It's my time to shine now, Ed!" He walked away.

"Hey, keep your wits about you out there! I wanna fight you in the finals, got it?"

"Just leave it to me!"

And Montes followed the official.

He led him through a corridor which leads through stairs to the arena in the upper level.

Montes could feel the tension of the moment growing with each step.

This was the moment he always waited for, so he couldn't help to feel anxious.

As he saw the light of the day shining through the corridor, he gulped, clutching to his scabbard, closing his eyes, and taking a deep breath.

"Focus." He talked to himself. "Remember what Father taught you."

The roar of the crowd was distracting, adding more weight to his shoulders.

Outside, on the upper levels, observing, and Judging the candidates, 5 knights, including Vivianne.

"Montes De Leon!" Announced the official pointing a flag at Montes. "Simón Crawford!" He pointed at his opponent.

"Ladies and gentlemen, art thou ready to runbleeee!"

The crowd cheered.

"Yeah! Get him, Monty!" Yelled Bernard.

"Montes De Leon. Is that the boy you recommended, Vivianne?" Questioned one of her peers. "Doesn't look very special to me."

"Fancies the Longsword?" Noticed another. "It's a hard weapon to master. I'm not sure if he's bold or foolish."

"With all due respect." Vivianne addressed her peers. "Watch, before coming to conclusions."

Down in the arena, Montes unsheathed his sword, taking his stance to fight.

On the other side, another nobleman, also armed with a longsword, but his equipment was superior, gambesson and mail, not to mention the training he had. Montes couldn't even see his face under the fancy helmet's facemask.

Montes kneeled down, grabbing a handful of sand, rubbing it on both hands.

"Fighters ready?" The official glanced at both.

Montes nodded as he got up, grabbing his sword as did his opponent.

"Fight's on!" Yelled the official, and both competitors dashed forward.

A clash of swords, of steel, both eager to be the one to hit the first strike and take the lead, taking a portion of the weight both carried to the trial.

After trading blows, deflects, parries here and there, Simon was the first one to hit Montes in the shoulder as both clashed swords.

"HIT!" The official raised a flag. One point for Simon.

Both returned to their start positions.

"Ready?" The official asked again, and both nodded.

This time, in less than a second, Simon hit Montes again, taking his second point.

"HIT!" Said the official. "Last point, Crawford!"

"Yes." Simon celebrated with himself his small victory.

"It looks like your recommendation is no good at all, Vivianne." The judges laughed.

Vivianne on the other hand, paid close attention to the fight as Montes returned to his start position, looking down.

"You can do this. I know you can." She thought.

"Come on, Montes... what happened?" Montes questioned himself. "Father taught you everything? Why can't I put it into practice?"

Montes concentrated. Ignoring the outside world for a second. Remembering everything his father taught him.

"If you can't find an opening, wait for your enemy to give you an opening. Use their own momentum to take the offense."

"De Leon? You ready?" The official questioned.

"Yes sir."

"This is his last point. You lose this you're out, got it?"

"I understand."

"Fighters ready... fight's on!" The flags went down.

This time, Simon, eager to end the battle quickly, foolishly left himself wide open with a thrust of his sword. Montes then parried the sword downward where his left foot stepped on the upper part of the blade, effectively disarming his opponent, then with his free blade, he aimed at the exposed neck of his opponent.

"HIT!" The official raised the other flag. "2-1 Montes!"

That technique caught Simon, as well as the judges, off guard.

"Lucky move!" One of the judges said.

Montes still had fight in him.

"Fight's on!" And the fourth round is on the way.

This time, Simon kept his guard up, but still, foolishly eager to end the fight right away. He expected something like the last round to happen. Instead, Montes parried his weapon to the side, using the momentum of his enemy's attack to swiftly drag his arm around the enemy blade, between his arm and chest, grabbing the guard of the weapon to pull his now defenseless enemy closer, aiming the tip of his sword at his face.

"HIT!" Yelled the official.

"Woah." Said one of the judges, impressed. "Okay, I admit. You may have something here, Vivianne."

She simply smirked at the comment.

"This is the match point for either one of you." Said the official. "Fighters re-"

The official stopped mid sentence as he looked down. A strange shadow had engulfed the arena. It seemed to be a cloud.

Everyone looked up to see the menacing cloud from before, standing still above the arena.

"What the-?" Montes was confused.

When out of nowhere, the purple lights within the cloud flashed, raining down lightning and thunder down to earth as what once was a sunny day, turned into a hellish storm.

"Get to safety! Both of you!" The official ran with the candidates. As the lightning fell mere meters by their side.

The crowd scattered, running, crying, yelling in fear of the hellish storm.

Montes ran to the same way he entered the arena, thinking inside the arena would be a good place to get cover from the lightning and thunder that fell.

As he approached the arch of the entrance, a bigger lightning strike struck the arena, demolishing immediately the structure, sending stone and wood down to where he was, almost burying the boy alive.

He luckily dodged the stone, but a wooden pillar, blasted away when the lightning hit, managed to hit him violently on the head, knocking him unconscious as more debris fell upon him.

"Montes!" Yelled Viviane. He could hear her voice from afar as he lost his consciousness, slowly drifting away.

It took a few minutes for him to wake up again...

He could faintly hear screams of people...

The cries of children...

The caos that had fallen upon his town.

Montes tried to get up, but the weight of the debris wouldn't let him.

He bled a lot from the blow to his head, and in that state he wouldn't last long.

"Come at me, fuckers!" He heard Edgard's voice in the distance. "I'll take you all on!"

"E...Ed?"

"Come on, Monty! Get up! You can't die here!"

Montes slowly opened his eyes. Still dizzy from the wounds. He could barely see anything. But what he could discern was Edgard fighting something.

They looked like shadows.

Armored warriors, wielding swords and shields. They looked like knights.

Edgard bravely fought off two of them, luckily killed one of them with a stab to the chest, and the other was beheaded. Both fell down to the ground, apparently dead.

Edgard quickly ran to save his friend.

"I got you, Monty! I'll get ou ou-"

Until he was stabbed through the back. The dark sword of the shadow could be seen poking through his chest as the shadow laughed.

"E-Ed?"

"M-M-M-Montes...Run.."

The shadow simply threw Edgard to the side, disposing of his now dead body. It then looked down, Montes looking straight at its red, devilish eyes.

He tried once again to get up, but couldn't.

The shadow prepared to kill him where he laid.

Until a third figure showed up. Cutting the arm of the shadow in a single motion of his sword, then beheading the creature for good, as its shadowy form simply dismantled. The second shadow fell just as quickly.

The hooded figure then looked down, noticing Montes.

"I have you." The hooded figure helped by moving the debris from Montes, finally freeing the lad.

"Ed...Ed, he's."

"He's dead. We can't help him." The figure dragged Montes.

"Ed!"

"We must leave Santiago at once!" The hooded figure hastily helped Montes up, quickly dragging him away from the scene before he did something drastic.

As they walked through the ruined arena now in flames, Montes saw the dead bodies of all the people that were there before. The official, Simon, Vivianne, Bernard. All dead.

"Viv- Vivianne! Bernard-" Montes tried to stay, but coughing blood, there wasn't much he could do.

"There's no time! We have to leave now!" The figure insisted.

"Let.. let me go!" He tried again, in vain. "I ha-" He coughed more blood. "Father!"

"Your father is dead, Montes! There's nothing you can do!"

"N-No! I... have... to stay!" He tried to fight, but he had no strength left.

The hooded figure dragged Montes to a carriage that awaited away from the chaos that once was a prosper town. Montes could see the fires burning away the only place he ever called home.
Dead bodies littering the streets that now run red with blood. No one but himself and the mysterious stranger survived.

Losing too much blood, he slowly lost consciousness as the figure hurried the horses to run away. As he did, the hood finally fell, revealing who the mysterious stranger was.

"L-Louis?"

<===TO BE CONTINUED====