The New Challenge
Sequel to Fall of Kundun
By Ultimo

“Rise of a Tyrant”
“Clash for MU”
“Confrontation”
“Fall of a Hero”
-The winds of fate

Author’s Note: For the sake of the plot and setting, Maya is a region just west of Bahr, so it is possible they can may interact and travel to each region by free will

Name changes;
BettaDenU > Spyder
Ultimo > Clara
Dark-Fox > Juan
Callist0 > Sharlene
RRRR > Thaddeus
SoulReaper > Raziel
BombermaN > Alvaro
Serge > Serge
City Names: Provaka, Nefelin, Midgard.



Section I: Return to Bahr:
The region of Maya was once again peaceful as the evil that once corrupted fled.
The heroes of Maya celebrated the long awaiting victory and continued onto their lives.
A new arising evil now is growing, in the ever-busy region of Bahr…

Chapter 1: The New Beginning
Rahl examined his double blade as he sat on a nearby stool of the bar. He took a clean rag and wiped the blood off of it. He walked outside and brought the double blade into the rays of sunlight as the morning sun was setting in on Lorencia.

Provaka, a prosperous city, filled with chatter and was housed into a castle. Surrounding it were beautiful plains and small forests. One of the remaining cities of the continent of MU. It’s walls were etched with holes and cracks as it’s age showed well. The king of the once great city fled centuries ago, thinking the monsters would overrun it. The people of MU, with their great spirits raised their swords against the monster and kept the city safe ever since.

Rahl brought the blade for him to see, the light passing through the clear translucent double-edged blade. It was a red colour, but you could see through the metal that made it up. Its handle was sturdy and Rahl’s favorite weapon to use.

He looked at it, noticing that a piece of the carved blade was chipped off in the battle before. He looked around and spotted the blacksmith was not busy and walked off into his direction.

“Aye, what do you need lad?” The blacksmith hammered away at the piece of metal he was working on.
“My double blade, a piece was chipped off, can you replace it with the same metal?” Rahl questioned.
“Yes I can, come back in an hour and it will be done. “ The blacksmith took the double blade from Rahl.
“Here’s the payment” Rahl handed him 10,000 zen.
“Aye, thank ya “ The blacksmith began looking around for his carving tools.

Rahl walked off to the bar, and ordered a drink. He gladly took it and gulped down half of it in a single shot. He leant back against the chair, brought in by the humble scenery. The ground was marked with amazing designs, while the walls lasted centuries. The general chatter was at a hush, and he let him mind wander. As he was about to daydream, an elf came and sat in front him. She was dressed in fine Elvin clothing, wearing a purple outfit, matching helm, gloves, boots, shorts, and armor. The purple colour was outlined with amazing yellow designs of Elvin origin, the clothes were made of the finest materials, and it was known as ‘Silk.’ Her hair was a golden colour, and it was long like strands of gold. Her face was well-shaped, as her bright blue eyes, with a small mouth, and red lip. Her ears pointed up into the sky, as do most elves. Her nose was small and finely shaped. Perfect example of a beautiful elf.


“What would you like Elf?” Rahl puzzled.
“I’ve been sent here to tell you something, we might need more privacy though,” She whispered
“Alright, tell me your name” Rahl stood up.
“The name is Lisa” she said and stood up as Rahl followed her out...

[End of Chapter 1]

Chapter 2: The Legend

Rahl followed Lisa through the city of Provaka, out of the castle walls. They moved past the dwelling monsters, into a small house outside of Provoka. The grass was a darker green, an unnatural colour. The trees were yellow from the sudden outburst of disease. They walked into the house, and Rahl immediately noticed the outlay. The walls were painted a deep gray, the colour not very inviting and depressing. The whole one room house was gray, from the chairs to the table. There was a table set up against one wall, with 4 matching chairs. The only noticeable thing was a bookshelf lined against the other door leading out of the house.

“Ok, we’re here, have a seat.” Lisa sat down and sighed deeply.
“Alright…” Rahl took the opposite chair and was facing her.
“So what have you come to tell me Lisa?” Rahl kept his hand close to his blade, for any sudden movements.
“I’m not here to hurt you, just put away the sword. “ Lisa placed her bow down as Rahl sheathed his double blade.
“Ok... I’ve been sent by my master... to inform you of a great evil lurking this land. “ Her voice was quiet and focused.
“A great evil? Have you not looked at the lands lately, there’s a lot of evil lurking around.” He laughed.
“I don’t mean the typical run of the mill monsters that have been lurking around, I mean a great evil. Such as ‘Kundun’” The words rolled off her lips as it sent a bone-chilling feeling down Rahl’s back.
“Kundun, the legendary monster? He nearly destroyed Maya, but the heroes of light laid him to rest. What massive power could amount to this evil?” Rahl pondered his own question
“I’m not quite sure, but the monster population has been steadily increasing. Haven’t you noticed the rise in dead corpses, both elf, wizard, knight and monsters?” She inquired.
“You’re right, I’ve been noticing that also. The water seems to be becoming murkier, and the skies are gloomier.” Rahl was astonished by Lisa’s knowledge.
“Do you know of the Legend?” Lisa asked.
“The LEGEND? The one of the mysterious hero?” He answered.
“Yes…In Maya, many years ago, Kundun was released. He wreaked havoc upon the unsuspecting citizens of MU. No one thought he would ever be defeated, or even challenged. The hero, Spyder, took up the enormous task. He and the MU resistance constantly fought with Kundun’s forces, and repelled them. Successfully retaking Maya back from Kundun, they snuck into Lost Tower and fought Kundun. Spyder, the last remaining hero who was not knocked out, wielded the Ultimate Light. He slayed the al mighty one, but with great victories, come great defeats. He was lost in the Lost Tower, and is said to live on in the sword if Evil ever arises again. It is located in the Hero’s Tomb II of Noria, in Maya. We must retrieve it to defeat the arising evil that is coming.”
Lisa fully explained.
“The Ultimate Light? Hmm…sounds interesting. You know your Mayan history very well. But I am all but a mere warrior, what can I do?” Rahl wondered.
“My master… he can teach you, he was one of the remaining heroes after the battle with Kundun. He can teach you to wield the Ultimate Light.” Lisa stressfully said.
“Sounds good, when do we depart?” Rahl stood up as he stretched his limbs.
“We will go soon, rest while young warrior.” Lisa stood up and yawned deeply.

The rumbling of footsteps was heard outside the house, as dark figures encircled it. Rahl veered from left to right as the figures marched into the house. He pushed Lisa to the said and unsheathed his sword to the masked figures.

“We’re here to take the girl.” His voice said with no emotion.
“Why do you need her?” Rahl replied in a staggered stance.
“She knows too much…she tries to repel the darkness…she is coming with us!” He stepped forward.
“Not so fast, if you want her, you’re going to have to go through me!” Rahl raised his sword into a fighting stance.
“Very well…it has been an awful long time since I have had a challenge…” The masked figure gave the signal to the other black silhouettes to back off, as he unsheathed his ruby encrusted sword. The sword was very slim, the actual metal blade was much smaller then that of a broad sword. The metal was white, and the blade was slightly tipped to the right with a slant in the middle of it. Ribbons hung from the bottom of the red handle, representing unknown characters. Rahl knew the sword well; it was a deadly Khopesh.


“Prepare… for your demise MORTAL!” The black figure lunged at Rahl.

[End of Chapter 2]

Chapter 3: Playing with Fire

Rahl quickly sidestepped to the left as the katana-like blade was brought down mere seconds after his dodge, the blade clashed against the ground, throwing sparks in different directions. Rahl quickly charged the man with combo of slashes, as the silhouette quickly backpedaled to embrace the slashes with his own sword. Rahl pushed the man into the forest, as they ferried at lightning speeds, appearing as blurs to spectators, as they traveled deeper into the forest. The man pulled out his 2nd kopesh, and began furiously slashing at Rahl, as Rahl was quickly pushed back, meeting each blow the mysterious man threw at him.

Rahl somersaulted backwards and quickly unsheathed his 2nd double blade, to match the man in combat.

“Ah…so you know how to dual wield too, young warrior?” The man laughed at him as he thrust forward with his blades.
“Of course, only an amateur cannot wield the power of two weapons.” Rahl quickly replied as he slashed the forward thrust back with his 360 spinning slash.

The two men each matched offensive attacks with a defense parry, as they appeared to be equally matched in strength and speed. The morning sun rose on the horizon, it’s beaming rays of light shining upon the two warriors, and lightened up the once dark and dreary forest.

Rahl noticed the man was draped in black cloaks, and a black mask, with eyeholes and a mouth hole, covered his face. The man’s hands were gray, appearing to be metal gauntlets, and his feet were metal too. Could this man be possibly human?

Rahl sprinted at the masked figure, as he slashed upwards in an uppercut fashion, slicing the man’s cloaks. No blood dripped, as he continued to fight. Rahl leapt forward, thrusting his swords into the underbelly of the man. The swords immediately appeared out the other side, showing no blood on the blades.

“Foolish mortal, you cannot harm me.” The man hoarsely laughed.
“Spectre… I should of known.” Rahl quickly stepped backwards, keeping his distance.
“Yes…I am a spectre, evolved form of a ghost. Unlike ghosts, I am able to touch and feel non-living and living objects. I can manipulate them to my liking, but I cannot be harmed by it. I have no figure, I am just a mere spirit with vengeance.” He replied.

Lisa had managed to escape the masked men, as they were inclined to watching the battle. Lisa knew who these men were, Spectres. She was fully aware that Rahl did not stand a chance against them, so she quickly traveled around and broke off a piece of a tree. Using her Elvin magic, she lit the torch on fire, the glowing embers greedily grabbing whatever flammable substance they could reach. The torch glowed beautifully, as she hurried to find Rahl.

After about 20 seconds of searching the forest, she finally found him, confronted by the revelation of that he was a spectre. She quickly moved into the battlefield, and thrust the torch at the spectre.

“ARGH!!!” Flames engulfed the spectre, as he waved his hands in the air. The flames consumed whatever they touched, till he was nothing but a mere crisp.
“How did you know…”Rahl turned to Lisa.
“Spectres can only be harmed by fire, common knowledge among elves.” She spoke as she shot fire arrows at the remaining men, as they fled into the forest.
“Well thanks, looks like you ended up saving me. “ He laughed.
“We better get going to Provaka, we might need to hire some help if we are to travel to Maya.” She led the way to Provaka as Rahl followed close behind.

In Provaka, Lisa and Rahl weaved through the ever-busy streets as the general chatter filled the air. Sellers selling equipment at extremely high prices, met by buyers who wanted to pay less. The rain hit down upon the city grounds, as the rain eventually hushed over the chatter and they silently walked through Provaka.

They passed several houses, the blacksmith, and the bar. After a considerable amount of walking, they reached a series of houses. At the end of the row, was a small house. It was brown in colour, its appearance portrayed that it was old-fashioned and well aged, as the shingles on the roof were about to fall off. The window covers were hanging by a nail, as the steps were twisted in awkward directions. The front of the house was piled up with scrap metal, from swords to armours. Lisa knocked on the door as it creaked open.

She walked in, Rahl close behind, his hand on the handle of his sword. He looked around, as candles warmly lighted the room. Bookshelves lined the walls as each pertained to the knowledge of weaponry and armoury. The walls were cracked, and slowly leaking water from the rain outside. The constant drip of water filled the house as they traveled past the living room. Arriving in the kitchen, it was lit by a torch, which provided much more light as a man worked on one of his weapons.

“Zeldrik, is that you?” Lisa chimed.
“Do my ears deceive me?” The man turned around.
“Ah, old friend. How long has it been since we last talked?” She smiled as the two hugged.
“Too long, who is this with you?” Zeldrik smiled at Rahl.
“I am Rahl, a knight of Provaka.” Rahl put his hand out.
“Ah…I see. Nice to meet you Rahl” Zeldrik gladly shook his hand.
Quickly turning to Lisa, he spoke, “Lisa, what brings you here? Last that I heard, you were in Nefelin, training your archery skills. “
“I am here on urgent business, I need some assistance as me and Rahl plan to journey to Maya.” She replied.
“Maya... ah…It’s been so long since I have been there…the last time I was there was during the War of MU.” He laughed.
“You participated in the War of MU?” Rahl surprisingly asked.
“Yes… my guild, the Ironfist, participated and helped quarrel the uprising brought by Kundun.” Zeldrik proudly answered.
“That is enough, you two may talk later, but now it is business. Would you like to accompany us to Maya, in search of the Ultimate Light?” Lisa asked.
“The Ultimate Light…the last time I saw that is when Spyder was about to enter The Lost Tower to defeat Kundun. It would be an honour to see that weapon one more time before I pass…yes I will accompany you to Maya.” He bowed.

Rahl noticed the slightly aging man. He had a well-aged face, with short cut hair. His hair was black, and was spiked in an upward fashion. His eyes were green in colour, but they seemed to be duller then normal eyes. His nose a small one, shaped finely. His lips were thin, and his mouth was small, coupled with medium-sized ears. His clothing was that of a blacksmith, as he was working on a weapon. His apron was black, made of a non-flammable material if a spark were to hit his apron. On a nearby shelf, lay his equipment. The armor was a greenish colour, similar to the scales of an alligator. Hundreds of green scales lined on top of the flat black metal, formed a second covering of green metal. The helmet had two horns that grew out of the helmet, similar to the head of a bull. Some pieces of the scale glowed multiple colours, from green to yellow. This fine set of armor was called ‘Scale’. His weapon was made of fine metal, a scythe to be exact. The handle was long and black, and it curved outward at the top, forming a bend, similar to an L. On the curved part of the scythe, was embedded with a grayish metal, and it was the sharpest part, as it shone when the light of torch hit it.

“Let me gather a couple of things.” Zeldrik walked into another of room, grabbing his nearby equipment, as the rustling of metals was heard.
“He’s old, you think he can make the journey?” Rahl asked.
“Of course…he’s been through a lot. This is probably his last journey though, so let’s make it a good one.” Lisa threw her hair back and tied it into a knot.
“I’m done!” Zeldrik walked out in his full equipment, brandishing his scythe. He sheathed it on his back.
“Mmm…let us get going, young ones. Btw, call me by Sir Zeldrik” He laughed as they followed him out the door.
As they were outside, Lisa spoke. “We have one more stop, we’re going to drop by one of my other friends houses. He’s a wizard, so don’t be alarmed by him.”

Lisa led the way through the interweaved pathways, as they moved steadily past stores and houses, past squabbling wizards, flirting elves and training knights. After a steady amount of walking, they reached a house that was not connected to anything else. Isolated, is a word to describe it. It wasn’t really a house, only one floor, two sets of windows, a door, and a chimney. The roof was a flattop, unlike all the other triangle top shaped roofs in the city. Rahl would soon find out, as a huge explosion occurred in the house. The windows shattered, as a tornado blew through the roof of the house, and was spinning at lightning speeds. After a couple of seconds though, the winds settled down, and only a hole was left by the tornado. Lisa, Rahl, and Zeldrik weaved through the wreckage caused by the winds, and entered the house.

The house itself wasn’t in a bad condition; the tornado seemed to be isolated in the room ahead of them. The walls were well furnished; candles lit the walls, paintings of Midgard, and a bookshelf to the left of them of magic. They walked forward and stepped into the room, as they were met by a black figure.

“Deltas, long time no see!” Lisa smiled and shook his hand.
“Lisa! Long time no see! What brings you to my small part of the neighbourhood?” Deltas coughed.
“I was just dropping by, you’ve seemed to have made a large mess. What have you been conjuring up this time? Lisa laughed.
“The usual, just the typical tornado spell. Hard to control, but very dangerous in the right situation.” He answered.

Rahl looked around at the wreckage; books were all over the place, windows were shattered, tables tipped over, chairs thrown into the roof. The place was in shambles, as he walked to examine closely. He opened a closet door, which revealed Deltas’ equipment.

His armor was lined with fine yellow patterns, similar to silk. They crisscrossed and interweaved the fine blue on the armor. Etchings of age showed as parts of the armour breastplate seemed to be chipped off. This armor was called ‘Legendary.’ Slight tints of yellow glowing from the armor indicated it’s magnificent power and stature. His staff was made of a blue material, most likely wood, with a metal skin exterior. The ends were a dark blue, while the middle was a light, baby blue. The tip of the staff contained a shining diamond, which glowed a magical blue.

“And who is this one they call “looking ay my equipment” Deltas asked.
“That is Rahl, warrior and knight of Provoka.” Lisa laughed.
“Interesting equipment, a legendary combo build eh?” Rahl asked Deltas.
“Yes, unfortunately, to wear that, I neglected my magic powers for strength, making it harder for me to control magic. On the bright side, I can take way more punishment from monsters.” Deltas laughed.
“Deltas, would you like to help us travel to Maya? We could use a wizard on our side, and you’d be a great asset to our cause.” Lisa politely asked.
“Well…I have always wanted to see Maya up close, so sure, why not! Let me put on my equipment, and grab some potions with me.” Deltas walked off, grabbing his equipment and entering a different room.
“A party of four eh? Sounds like fun, any other companions we need to meet before we leave?” Rahl wondered.
“Nah, I got some friends in Maya too. They can help us out when we get there. For the meantime, our small party will do.” Lisa yawned.
“This is going to be fun! I have not left Provaka since a couple of years ago. It will be nice to see a couple of things before I pass on.” Zeldrik exclaimed.

Deltas walked out, dressed in his attire, holding his staff.
“Let’s go!” He sprinted out the door as the rest of the gang followed behind quickly.

[End of Chapter 3]

Chapter 4: To Maya!
Rahl lead the way through the plains of Provaka, as Lisa, Zeldrik and Deltas followed him, chatting along the way. The plains were a yellowish green colour, indicating they were almost dead. The corruption of monsters has killed most living things, and there was a construction site of an old outpost nearby. The pathways were old and faded, as they have been walked on for centuries.

“…So I said to him, that’s not a potion, that’s bull droppings!” Zeldrik laughed
“Erm…interesting story there Zeldrik. We’ll be arriving at the docks soon enough, then we can travel to Maya by boat.” Lisa said as she threw her hair from one side to another.
“Why must we travel by boat, could we not travel through Midgard, through the mountains and arrive in Devias’ chilly plains?” Deltas pondered the question.
“In normal circumstances, yes we would of done that. But…my master told me not to travel through the mountains, as evil’s power is the strongest there. That probably means some nasty monsters have inhabited the pathways.” Lisa replied.
“This route is much faster, and safer.” Rahl chimed in.
“Who is your master anyways Lisa?” Zeldrik asked.
“My master says the time will arrive to meet him,” Lisa answered.
“Hmm… so it’s a guy eh?” Rahl laughed.
“Yes… he’s looking forward to meeting you Rahl.” Lisa giggled.
“Oh wow, such an honour. I do hope he does prove a challenge.” Rahl said with a hint of sarcasm.
“There’s the boat over there!” Deltas sprinted ahead as they had reached the docks.
The boat was one of the later prototypes of the Provaka Navy. It was meant as a travel vessel, and was only armed with an old-fashion cannon. Its sails were gray and old, and part of the top of the boat was made out of metal, silver. The boat itself was small, and at most could support a 7 men crew. It was very well aged, as water leaked into parts of the boat.

“I purchased this off a retired sailor, may not be the prettiest boat, but he promised me it was the fastest.” Lisa examined the boat from top to bottom
“Hmm… seems much more stable then the wooden boats in my days.” Zeldrik chimed.
“A later model… the Provaka Navy will probably contain some of these in the future.” Deltas said.
“We will make camp here, since the sun is about to set. We need all the daylight we can if we are to navigate the harsh waters of these seas.” Lisa made herself comfortable as she closed her eyes against a nearby tree.
“Alright, I’ll keep watch” Rahl walked off in the distance as he kneeled down at watched any moving activities.
Zeldrik comfortably laid his head against the side of the boat, as he let his eyes rest.
Deltas were nearby on the shore, casting power-wave spells, watching the ripples go outward.

Rahl had been watching for a couple of hours, as he etched drawings in the dirt with a stick. His eyes longed for sleep, but his mind was wide-awake. He pondered if these so-called friends were really trust-worthy, what if they planned on stealing his equipment and leaving him to die once he fell asleep. He’d never know, as he dare not sleep in their presence. He watched Provaka, the city that never sleeps, as lights could be seen in the distance, and a steady flow of smoke rose from the castle, most likely from chimneys.
He heard the rustling of bushes, as he looked to the left, toward the abandoned outpost. He moved steadily to the bushes, and peaked through slightly to see a conversation between monsters. They were black outlines, and he could not make one any of the monsters. A small fire warmed the silhouettes, as they started talking.

“AGH! These past centuries have been a bore, not since the Uprising of Kundun have I actually had any fun.” The 1st black shadow said.
“I hear of a rumour…from the scared prophets. They believe that another uprising, of EVIL will come in due time. A threat…even greater then Kundun itself could ever manifest.” The 2nd black shadow laughed.
“Impossible! How could such a rumour come to be?! Kundun ruled for millennia’s, before the arrival of the heroes. With only the Ultimate Light could be defeated and succumbed to his sins. Even though, The Hero that defeated him no longer exists, they say he lives in the sword.” The 3rd black shadow murmured.
“If we are to have any fun again… we must destroy that weapon! If this new evil is to arrive, I believe it would suffer the same demise as Kundun, from the ultimate weapon.
What say you Skeletor?” The 2nd shadow laughed.
The 1st shadow, referred to Skeletor, reflected on the possible idea, “It sounds like a plan… hehe…The Hero’s Tomb has not been disturbed in centuries. I doubt it is heavily guarded, what do you think Predator?
The 3rd shadow, known as Predator gave his opinion. “ It’s quite possible indeed, maybe if this true evil does exist, he will reward us for our troubles hm? I have not been paid in centuries as a wandering mercenary of evil. No one dare hire me, as proved, I am one to kill with no mercy. Shadow, this may be a great plan indeed.” It laughed.
Shadow, the 3rd shadow laughed diabolically as he revealed some useful info. “ I hear of a band of heroes, that plan on taking the Ultimate Light and to destroy this new evil. If we are to be rewarded, we must beat them before they reach it. I hear they embark on a journey very soon, to the quiet lands of Maya. I know of a secret route that will take us to Maya. We will leave soon, as time is the essence.”

They all laughed, as the fire blew out, and they all disappeared in a cloud of smoke.
Rahl pondered the conversation. “A band of evil mercenaries plans to destroy the Ultimate Light, without it, we may possibly be doomed. I better get back before they notice I’m gone,” Rahl sprinted off into the horizon, hoping they could make it to Maya before the 3 shadows could.

[End of Chapter 4]

Chapter 5: Realization of a Greater Cause

Rahl stretched out his arms and legs as he took a quiet walk down the shoreline. He yawned deeply as his ordeal in the night had left him wide-awake, pondering the revelations. He had not told anyone, nor did he plan on going to. When the time was right, he would say. The cool chilly breeze from the rather-quiet seas blew upon the shore, providing a refreshing energizer as he stepped along the sand. The sand crushed under his feet, making muffled sounds as he put his arms behind his head and cracked it.

“RAHL! Hurry up! We’re going to leave soon,” yelled the familiar voice of Lisa.
“Ugh…coming!” Rahl yelled back as he briskly jogged back towards the campsite.

Lisa saw Rahl returning in the distance, and diverted her attention to other important matters. The boat received repairs, to fix the leaky starboard side. They had also restocked the boat with a pair of crossbows, armed with metal-tipped bolts. The old-fashion cannon had been moved and cleaned, and had five cannonballs as it’s ammo. The boat was gently tugged side to side from the never-stopping sea, as more preparations continued. The boat was being cleaned from top to bottom and food supplies and potions were being packed. The boat may not be a 1st class naval vessel, but it was certainly no typical fisherman’s boat. The vessel was also armed with it’s own communication system, five passenger birds rested in a cage, and spare sheets of writing paper nearby. If needed to communicate, one of the birds would be released with a note, and be told its location. Low and behold, it would fly off and complete the transaction. The medium-sized speckled birds chirped harmoniously as Deltas fed them some leftover bread.

Lisa turned her head to the side and watched Zeldrik remake the sails, a timely job, but was mere child’s play for an expert blacksmith. He cleaned the sails, and flattened them, folding them up, and handing them to Lisa.

“Here you are milady, the sails as you wished, to your exact specifications.” Zeldrik bowed as the words flowed off his tongue.
“Why thank you Zeldrik, get ready though, we must depart soon. Go tell Deltas, and I will go inform Rahl.” Lisa politely said as Zeldrik scurried off to talk to Deltas.

Rahl came to an abrupt stop as he gasped the air into his lungs. He didn’t realize how far he had walked, mindlessly, as he woke up in early morning to think. He looked up into the skies of mid-afternoon; the sky was clear, as the sun shone down and lit the land. He thought as Lisa tapped him on the soldier.

“Done with your morning walk?” Lisa smiled.
“Yes, yes I am. Are the preparations done for our departure?” Rahl asked, as he looked endless into the sky.
“Yes they are, no thanks to you, lazy bum” Lisa’s words deflected off of Rahl.
“Good, we should be leaving soon. Can’t tell what happens in the harsh seas.” Rahl replied as they began walking towards the boat.

For a couple of minutes, neither spoke. They walked down along the shoreline, as Lisa broke the question with an eerie question.
“What were your parents like Rahl?” Lisa oddly asked.
“My parents…I never did know my parents. I was only a couple of months old, when my father left to voyage and travel the world. He said he would send us money, bring back gifts, and come home safely. As most tragic tales start, he never did come back. I don’t know what happened to him, he just…suddenly stopped writing back. My mom presumed him dead, and wept in her own pity. My mom was struck down by the plague. The epidemic, swept through the lands, killing thousands. The plague came from wheat, the blight-infested wheat. My mother always saved me the stale, but healthy bread for me to eat. She always eats the blighted bread, making sure I grew up healthy. She always had this horrible cough, never stopped until several minutes later. When I asked her what it was, she just replied “Nothing son, it’s just a cough.” I would soon find out, the next day she was in her bed, the blight grew out of her like tendrils, decomposing her stomach. The site was horrific, I immediately vomited, until after the 3rd time, I packed my things and burnt the house. What I saw in the house should never be seen again, as I started off on my own journey. I traveled countless years, looking for places to stay. I worked wherever I could find work, sweeping floors, cleaning swords, and becoming an apprentice to a blacksmith. My blacksmith mentor told me that my hands were for the blade, not the hammer. He told me to look up work as a merchant, taking random jobs, defending those who needed help, or helping the corrupt do their deeds. I thought about the proposition, and decided to give it a try. I trained my skills in the art of swordsmanship, quickly raising the ladder known as “Quick Blade Rahl.” I finished 1st in my very first tournament, defeating the legend only known as DarkEye. I did a couple of jobs here and there, and I decided to settle down, and landed a house deed in Provaka, the city of saints. That’s pretty much my life.” Rahl blandly said.
“Why’d you settle down anyways?”
“Ah… well after my first tournament, I became champ. This gave people privilege to duel me at any time for my title, and if you can’t figure it out, I was constantly challenged.”
“So you were even challenging while sleeping or bathing?” Lisa laughed.
“Sadly…yes, after a while, it becomes such a trouble. I didn’t know how DarkEye did it, but he must have done it well. He held the title for 10 years straight, and he shortly retired after I defeated him. He thanked me for defeating him, since he was growing weary of fighting, and moved to Devias.”
“So, who did you give up the title to, if you did?”
“I gave it up to a newcomer, which had great potential. He wasn’t experienced, but he learned the trick of the trade as I trained him. He defeated me in a duel soon after, as his skills have even surpassed mine. He was much more powerful, but he had trouble controlling the rage brewing inside of him. I have yet to see him, but news of him says that he is undefeated.
“What is his name?”
“His alias goes by “Blader.” We departed many years ago when he seeked to be rid of a simple life, and travel the world. I did not object, and we said farewell, I have not seen him since.”
“That’s an interesting story Rahl, no one has ever opened up to me so much before. Maybe since I had no friends. I’m sorry to hear that your life is so rough, and that your parents were killed so gruesomely Rahl, if it’s any constellation, my parents were killed by that plague also.” She whispered.
“Thanks…I’ve never been able to tell anyone that, I’m afraid they would think I’m stupid or something.” Rahl quietly said.
“Sometimes, it’s hard to know who to trust, and who not to trust. Just…listen to what you think is right, and you’ll know what is.” Lisa’s words remained in Rahl’s head
“Thanks for the help Lisa.” Rahl thanked her.
“What are friends for?” Lisa giggled.
“Well! Let’s get going, the boat should be near completion, and we don’t wanna keep them waiting.” Lisa grabbed Rahl by the arm, and sprinted forward.
“HEY! Slow down!” Rahl quickly caught up with her, as head and head they sprinted to the boat. One thing Rahl did realize up to this day, he had finally found someone he could relate and trust. A wave of relaxation swept over him, as he now knew what a “Friend” really was.

[End of Chapter 5]