NBA Fanfiction Collection (2018-2019)

John Wall and the Trouble in the Old Capital - 10/10/18

At a few strokes past midnight in the local pub and inn, The Peregrine Falcon, John Wall raised his glass in a toast to the newly admitted members of the Wizard Clan of the Old Capitol. It was a decades-old tradition to celebrate with a night of song, dance, women, and ale before taking the acolytes into battle for the first time. It was also custom for the leader of the clan to preach a message of brotherhood and togetherness. He along with the other high lords of the East knew that that the tides had turned in the eastern territory with the departure of the Lion Warrior King and that his brethren would need to be motivated if they were to properly take their opportunity. He made eye contact with each loyal and drunken member then back at his glass for a moment before beginning his speech.

"Men! A toast...not only to our newest members, but to all of you. The road ahead is long and arduous, full of sweat and scars. But I know that the tribulations will pale in comparison to the glory of triumph. We shall taste victory and wine together, bleed together, and ascend to royalty together. On our journey, it is important that we do not lose sight of what is most important. The things th—"

Suddenly, as if from nowhere, an arrow flew across the room and blasted the glass from Wall's hand. He ducked for a moment as everyone scrambled then simultaneously saw none other than Bradley Beal, The Night Eagle standing in the corner with his sacred bow in hand. He was adorned in his standard garb; black robes, black armor, and a black quiver of arrows. Not a single Wizard rushed toward him as they knew his accuracy with the bow was frighteningly lethal.

" 'The glory of triumph, eh?' And what of triumph does this charlatan know? I ask you, what has he ever brought us but humiliation and surrender? Need I remind you how we fared after he took an arrow to the knee? For it was I who brought us to precipice of greatness in our dear leader's absence."

Still cradling his lacerated hand, Wall glared at the mutinous lord with searing focus. The rest of the Wizard clan panning slowly back and forth between them.

"We head into battle soon, my dear brothers. The choice is yours."

The Night Eagle flicked his cape and took his leave. And not a single member of the Wizard clan broke the resulting silence.