Legends: The Knight of Helm (#1)

Chapter 21

After his defeat at Dechoneus Volohs knew this was the beginning of a long war. He glanced off from the distance towards the mountains. At Skull Peak of Blood Mountain, was Eagle Tower; Oxros, God of Destruction was said to have stood there, while polluting the mountain for the horrors of men. Volohs starred at it now, no man could every reach there, no, not even with the strongest of magic. It was for told that reaching Skull Peak was as if reaching the depths of Hell, where Claydrin had banished Oxros, for his crimes against men. The only god who could cure the cursed Mountains was the Lord of the Sun, who's coming would be signaled by the gods themselves.

"My lord, we have lost the Mountain pass through Blood Mountain." The scout bowed.

"When," Volohs questioned calmly.

"Nurus and his men have conquered it as of three days prior." The scout replied, "Lennix has sent his men to conquer it immediately."

"Why did he not wait for my command?" Volohs questioned.

"I know not why." The scout replied.

"Fetch Lennix for me, I wish to speak with him immediately." Volohs said, slightly furious.

"Sir, Lennix has joined his men in the coming fray."

Volohs slammed his hand against a nearby wall, and then yelled into the air. He took a deep breathe, "Leave me."

"Yes, sire."

Quickly the scout left with little encouragement needed. Volohs had almost conquered the lands of Helm, and Dechoneus was falling with his men as he spoke. They had conquered the east side; the city was what they had their concerns about. To the far west of Dechoneus was the forest, given no name, because no man could inhabit it. They seemed at an impasse, however Volohs knew Inger was too prideful to help them in their efforts, and he was counting on their inaction.

"Claydrin guide me," Volohs muttered.

He was ruthless, and direct, however Volohs had no other choice, if they did not respect him, either through fear, or fame, he would have no control over the people and chaos would ensue. He ruled with an iron fist, because he could not risk an up rise. He glared over the palace balcony.

Volohs looked back to the battle of Dechoneus. He remembered seeing the Knight of Helm. He had heard rumors of his great accomplishment. The villages he had conquered had told him this knight had killed a red dragon, of Dragon Rock. Some even claimed they heard the draconic cry from over three days of travel. If he had not slain his wizards, Volohs would have won the battle. The desert plains of Dechoneus had won the battle, but Volohs would be prepared next time. He didn't need the Ommart as he had needed them before. He would let them finish Helm, Volohs's concerns where now on one thing, Dechoneus.

"My lord, I have found what it is you seek."

"Yes, come hither." Volohs replied.

"This book describes how to ascend to godhood, written by one who has such attempted."

"And what have you made of it?"

"Sire, this book is not for mortals, it was written by the sky."

"Can you read it?" Volohs said with curiosity.

"Not beyond the first page." The man replied.

"Very well, explain to me what you have found."