Part 17
Alucard woke up early the next morning, he got up, put his gear on and his new weapon, Nightshade, he clipped it to his belt, along with his bullwhip and his sword. He grabbed the new armour Brok had mended for him, as he put it on, it felt lighter and more flexible. Brok had completely outdone himself, his movements felt more free and easier, he had more control, less heavy. The material felt like a second skin, providing both protection and agility. Brok's expertise had indeed proven invaluable.
With the newly enhanced armour fitting him snugly, Alucard felt a renewed sense of readiness. The morning sun cast a warm glow over Iron Harbour as he descended from the Lord's Manor. The town was awakening to the routines of daily life, but Alucard's thoughts were drawn to the events of the previous night.
He met Brok down by the town centre and they both greeted each other. They stopped by one of the taverns and began to have breakfast.
The tavern was a lively place, filled with the chatter of townsfolk starting their day. Alucard and Brok found a corner table, away from the bustling entrance. The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon filled the air as the serving wench brought over two steaming mugs of ale.
"So, lad, how does the armour feel? Brok asked, taking a hearty gulp of his ale.
"Remarkable," Alucard replied, tapping a finger against the chest plate. "I feel like I can move more freely. It's as if I gained a new layer of agility."
"Aye, dwarven craftsmanship does wonders, doesn't it?" Brok grinned, taking a bite of a thick slice of bread. "Now, tell me about this Nightshade of yours. How does it handle? Any troubles with it?"
Alucard leaned back, sipping his ale as he contemplated the question. "Nightshade is a masterpiece. The balance is perfect, and the short-range rune you added is a brilliant touch. It gives me confidence, Brok, a sense of control in tight situations."
Brok nodded in satisfaction. "Glad to hear it. A weapon is an extension of its wielder, after all. Now, what's on your mind, Alucard? You didn't come here just to chat about weapons and armour."
“I don't know, it's hard to explain, I feel like today is going to be the end.”
“The end? To what? You are not planning on dying are you? We still have work to do.”
“No, not that, I don't know. I feel like this town has been a big cauldron and over the years it's been filled with water, and the fire has been getting hotter and hotter, and today it will boil over.”
Brok listened intently, his brow furrowed in thought. "Aye, I've felt the tension too. Iron Harbour's been through a lot, and it seems like there's more bubbling beneath the surface than we can see. But you've faced tough times before, lad. What makes today different?"
Alucard took a moment, looking into his ale as if searching for answers in its depths. "I can't quite put my finger on it, Brok. Maybe it's the newcomers, or maybe it's something else but there's a shift, and I fear the cauldron might spill over with something the people are not prepared for."
“You think maybe Father Maxwell will make his move today?”
“I am unsure, there is a possibility of that, but he has played the long game up until now, I don't think he would rush to the end, it could cost him everything he has slowly been working towards.”
“Your right lad, but you are forgetting, he did not plan for you to come along and mess up everything, maybe you have thrown a wrench in his plans so he is getting desperate, it is most likely he threatened you and tried to have you killed that night.”
Alucard nodded, acknowledging Brok's astute observation. "You might be onto something, Brok. I've been a spanner in the works for the good priest, and desperation might drive him to act sooner than he intended."
Brok leaned back, stroking his beard in thought. "A desperate man is a dangerous one. But don't forget, lad, you're not alone in this. We've got a few tricks up our sleeves too."
Alucard grinned, appreciating Brok's confidence. "That we do, my friend. And Nightshade here," he patted the hilt of his newly enhanced whip, "is itching for some action."
“Plus lad, we outnumber them 10-1 now, with that lot from the capital, with Sir Cedric and his men they would not dare to make a move, and even if he unleashes that Fade on us this time around you will kill it.”
Alucard nodded in agreement. "You're right, Brok. The odds are in our favour this time. Father Maxwell won't risk open conflict when he's outnumbered, especially with Sir Cedric and his soldiers in the mix. And you can bet I'll be ready for that Fade if it shows its ugly face again."
As they finished their breakfast they prepared to leave the tavern, the distant sounds of activity in Iron Harbour grew louder. Alucard and Brok joined the stream of people heading towards the town centre, where preparations for the day were well underway. The air was charged with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty, a feeling that seemed to echo Alucard's own apprehensions about the day ahead.
None were ready for what awaited them. Not too far out to sea, a few miles off the cost of Iron Harbour was a large Galleon Ship.
The Galleon Ship, christened "Divine Crusader," loomed on the horizon, a formidable vessel sailing towards Iron Harbour. Its design was both practical and imposing. The ship's hull was made of sturdy oak, weathered by countless journeys across tumultuous seas. Tall masts reached towards the sky, holding sails adorned with the emblem of the Eternal Flame
The ship's figurehead, a majestic phoenix with wings outstretched, spoke of resilience and rebirth, a fitting representation of the Eternal Flame's creed. The sails billowed with the wind, propelling the Galleon forward with purpose.
As the ship drew closer, the details of its structure became apparent. Rows of cannons lined the sides, ready to unleash devastating volleys if needed. The deck was bustling with activity as the crew, dressed in a mix of practical seafaring attire and armour adorned with the colours of the Eternal Flame, moved with disciplined efficiency.
At the helm stood the imposing figure of Captain Tobias Stormbreaker. Clad in heavy armour that bore the marks of countless battles, Captain Stormbreaker exuded an air of authority and battle-hardened strength. His eyes, sharp and vigilant, scanned the waters ahead as he barked orders to his crew. A large two-handed sword, its blade etched with holy runes, rested at his side.
The soldiers on board, members of the Eternal Flame, were a disciplined force. Their armour bore the emblem of their faith—a stylized flame—and they carried weapons that blended practicality with a symbolic connection to their beliefs. Shields adorned with the Eternal Flame symbol, swords with intricate hilt designs, and armour crafted for both protection and mobility marked them as formidable warriors.
Captain Tobias Stormbreaker, a weathered and imposing figure with a salt-and-pepper beard, stood at the helm of the Divine Crusader, his eyes fixed on the distant silhouette of Iron Harbour. His first mate, a seasoned sailor named Morgan Crowe, approached with a weathered map in hand.
"Mornin', Cap'n. We'll be makin' port in Iron Harbour within the hour,'' Morgan reported, his voice carrying the gruff timbre of a man accustomed to the sea.
Captain Tobias grunted in acknowledgment, his gaze still fixed on the town. "Iron Harbour, eh? Looks like a proper shit hole from here. What's the story with this place?"
Morgan scratched his beard, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Well, Cap'n, it's seen its share of troubles. From the latest report from your good friend Maxwell, they had a monster problem and ghouls had taken over the mine, but from his last report the mine had been cleared of ghouls.”
“This sorry state of a place, managed to fight and kill a ghoul infestation within the mines? I guess I judged them a bit too soon.”
“According to the report, the city watch captain went down with a few of his soldiers a dwarf blacksmith called Brok, and a anther man called Alucard Morgraine.”
“Never heard of him.”
“But there's a resilience to the folk here. Tough as the barnacles on the hull of a ship."
Tobias chuckled, a deep, hearty sound. "Resilient, huh? I could use a bit of action. It's been too long since these boots touched solid ground in the midst of a ruckus."
Morgan grinned, revealing a few missing teeth. "You're always ready for a brawl, Cap'n. But don't underestimate them, the report from Maxwell included that he required some assistants with this flock, people are opposing of the change we bring and are hindering the process”
Captain Tobias Stormbreaker nodded, his eyes narrowing as he observed Iron Harbour in the distance. "Opposition, you say? I do love a good challenge. Maxwell's got himself in a bit of a mess, hasn't he?"
"Aye, Cap'n. Seems like the folks here aren't too keen on whatever it is the Eternal Flame's preaching'. They've got a local lord, Davos, and a few other notable figures resisting the changes. Could get messy."
Tobias grinned, the prospect of conflict lighting up his weathered face. "Messy is what we do best, Morgan. Ready the crew. We'll make port, and then we'll pay a visit to our good old friend Maxwell. Let's see if he has a plan of action.”
Morgan saluted, a wry smile on his face. "Aye, Cap'n. It'll be good to see some action again."
"All hands on deck! Brace for landfall, you scurvy dogs! Man the lines and prepare to drop anchor."
The crew, a well-disciplined ensemble, scrambled into action. Some furled the sails, their agile movements guided by years of experience battling the winds. Others manned the rigging, securing the lines with deft knots and anticipating the imminent docking.
"Haul up the anchor! Easy on the lines there, ye lily-livered landlubbers. We don't want to overshoot the pier!"
The metallic clank of the anchor being hoisted echoed through the ship as the crew worked in unison. The massive anchor rose from the sea, dripping with brine, as the sailors meticulously secured it in place.
"Steady as she goes, helmsman! Bring us into the harbour, but mind the shallows. We don't want to be stuck like a drunken sailor in the muck."
The helmsman, hands firm on the wheel, navigated the ship with precision. The Divine Crusader glided through the waters, guided by the skillful hands of the crew.
"Prepare to drop the gangplank! And let's have a proper welcome for our guests in Iron Harbour. Make ready to disembark the soldiers, we've got a task ahead."
The crew, now in full anticipation, readied the gangplank as the ship approached the harbour. The soldiers of the Eternal Flame, armed and resolute, lined up in formation, ready to step onto the docks and carry out their duties.
As the Divine Crusader neared the harbour, Captain Tobias Stormbreaker's voice continued to ring out, a blend of authority and seafaring wisdom that had weathered the storms of countless voyages. The ship, now under his practised command, prepared to make its mark on the shores of Iron Harbour.
Moments earlier, Brok and Alucard had made their way back up to the Lord's manor, during their breakfast a messenger was sent to collect them, it was from Eugene, he had requested both of them to return to the manor on important binsness.
As they reached the top of the steps, Brok took a moment to catch his breath, his robust dwarven constitution not quite matching the demands of the steep ascent.
Alucard chuckled, clapping the dwarf on the back. "You might need to oil those joints, my friend. Or maybe a bit more time at the forge will toughen you up."
Brok shot him a grumpy look but couldn't hide a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. "Easy for you to say, long legs and all. Now let's see what Eugene wants. Can't be any good if he's sending messengers."
They entered the Lord's Manor, the hubbub of activity telling of the urgency of the situation. Eugene was waiting in the main hall, a serious expression on his face.
“Alucard, Brok, thank you for coming, Lord Davos would like to see you in his study, it looks like more trouble is on the horizon.” Eugene escorted them to Davos office, as he swung open the doors, there was Markus sitting down looking much better than he did the yesterday, the healers must have really done a good job on him. Also in the room was Sir Cedric and his two knight captains Roland and Thomas. Davos was sitting at his desk with a worried look on his face, but quickly changed when he saw both Alucard and Brok enter the room.
The room was tense, the weight of the situation palpable. Alucard and Brok took the offered seats. As they sat down Sir Cedric stood up and walked to the centre of the room.
“As many of you know who I am,but for those who I have not had the opportunity to have met yet, My Name is Sir Cedric Valorian, and the two men with me are my captains Roland and Thomas. Now you may be asking why have I asked your Lord to ask for all of you here today, I have done this because I believe we have a problem within this town, just as all of you do as well. Yesterday, Alucard and Lord Davos filled me in on everything that has been happening for the last few weeks, and how they believe it is The Eternal Flame doing, or should I be more specific the good priest, Father Maxwell. Alucard and most of you if not all of you believe he is the one behind everything, it may not have been that way at the start but Alucard filled me in with his theory and it sounds outlandish but also very possible. The reason behind this is he and Markus here were attacked by a Fade creature and as I was told they can only be used or summoned by a very powerful mage or sorcerer, or if one has a very powerful tome or artefact.”
“By the great beard, this just keeps getting more crazy by the day.” Said Brok
“Couldn't put it any better myself Brok.” Markus said.
“People please, let's hear what else Sir Cedric has to say on the matter.” Said Davos as he gestured to Cedric to continue.
“Thank you, as I was saying, we believe he is using a Tome, to summon this Fade from a willing host. Alucard believed it was the book he carries around him at all times, but yesterday I have had a meeting with him and I got a look at the book myself the one he was holding, but unfortunately there was nothing special or magical about it, it was just a normal book about their religion, I could not see anything out of the ordinary with it.”
Sir Cedric continued, "However, that doesn't rule out the possibility of him possessing another book with the capabilities we suspect. He's a cunning man, and he wouldn't flaunt the true source of his power so easily. The real question is, where is this tome hidden, and how do we neutralise its influence?"
Roland, one of Sir Cedric's captains, spoke up, "It's dark magic, and it corrupts everything it touches. We cannot allow it to fall into the hands of the Eternal Flame."
Thomas, the other captain, added, "Our duty is to protect the people, but we need to do so without causing unnecessary harm. If an open confrontation ensues, it could lead to chaos and innocent lives being lost."
Brok stood from his char. “I say we just storm the Church and take it, we have the support of the people and with Sir Cedric and his men we outnumber them 10-1 now, we can do this with no blood shed. Easy as piss.”
“That's not entirely true anymore Brok.” said Sir Cedric
“What do you mean?”
Sir Cedric exchanged a glance with his captains before explaining, "It looks like Lord Davos was not the only one who sent letters asking for help, my spy’s tell me they have gotten word that Father Maxwell also sent a letter, and by the look of it today they have arrived.”
“What arrived?” Asked Brok
“There's been a large Galleon Ship sighting not far off the harbour, it bares the sails of The Eternal Flame, from the design of the ship is it the Divine Crusader, Captained by a man called Tobias Stormbreaker.”
Brok's brows furrowed in concern. "Tobias Stormbreaker... That's no ordinary sailor.”
“No Brok, he isn't.” Replied Cedric “He's a seasoned captain, and his ship, the Divine Crusader, is a force to be reckoned with. The Eternal Flame sent reinforcements, and they're not to be underestimated."
Sir Cedric continued, "We need to adjust our strategy. Storming the church now could lead to a full-scale conflict, and we're not in a position to handle both the internal threat and an external force of this magnitude. We have to be cautious and deliberate in our actions."
Roland added, "They won't be aware that we know of their arrival. We should use that to our advantage, gather intelligence, and find the tome, before they realise we're onto them."
Thomas nodded in agreement. "A surprise assault from both fronts might be our best chance. We need to act before they consolidate their position."
“I am sure they know by now, hiding the arrival of that kind of ship would never go unnoticed.” Said Alucard.
“That is very true also... I am afraid that is out of the question,” interpreted Cedric. “For one... we still don't have any proof they are behind all of this, it is only theories as of late and no real proof. Because of this we can not just declare war on them, we do not have the right or the authority to do so. If we did lead an all out attack on their group and religion and we were wrong, many lives would have been lost for nothing and that is not the only problem we would be facing, as many of you know the capital is in disarray. Because of this, there is no one really in control yet, and the last thing we need right now is a conflict with the Eternal Flame as a whole, they are a very large and powerful group, one we do not want to go to war with. Also I am sure that Lord Davos does not want to turn his beloved town into a war zone.”
“You are right, Sir Cedric, you are absolutely right.” replied Davos. “What do you think the next course of action should be?”
“I believe that finding proof is still the best bet on this whole thing, and if it turns out that we are wrong, then we can use that to our advantage... we can then turn our attention to the rightful place, we would also save face with The Eternal Flame.”
Davos nodded in agreement. "Agreed. We must proceed with caution and gather evidence before taking any drastic actions. Brok, Alucard, your task in the sewers becomes even more crucial. We need that proof to expose Father Maxwell's
involvement. Sir Cedric, can you discreetly gather information about the newcomers and the Divine Crusader? We need to know their intentions and strengths."
Sir Cedric saluted. "I'll dispatch my best scouts to observe their movements. We'll find out what we can without raising suspicion."
As the group discussed their plans, Alucard sat still in his chair, ideas running through his mind. This was work, there were too many people in play, he thought to himself.
“I have an idea.” Alucard said but no one heard him, they were too busy talking amongst each other still coming up with strategies. He rose to his feet and commanded the room.
“I HAVE AN IDEA!” he yelled once more. Everyone stopped and looked at him, his face cold, “Normally I work alone but as of late I have been letting too many people get involved and because of this I will be doing this alone for now on.”
“What are you talking about lad?” asked Brok as he was confused with everyone else.
“Yea, What is it? Why cut us out now?” Asked Markus
“There are too many people in play, too many plans and too many ways it can go wrong. Turning this into something no one is ready for, but I am different. I am just a hunter. Because of this I am going to use it to sneak into the Church tonight after nightfall, and I will find what we are looking for, and if I am wrong and court, you all can deny having to do anything with it... I operated alone, because of that, it won't lead to open conflict.”
Davos sighed, realising the weight of Alucard's decision. "Alucard, we're all in this together. Your safety is our concern as well. If you are found and captured, they will not turn you over to us Alucard, they could impressen you, or worse kill you.”
Brok jumped with anger. “If they even try anything like that I will personally send Maxwell to meet his God myself!” yellow Brok, his voice consuming the room as a whole.
“I understand your feelings to Brok” replied Davos “But, they are there own independent group, with there own laws, it’s true they are guests here but they when it comes to internal matters they handle it themselves, they could easily send Alucard off to some remote Prison they have, where who knows what could happen.”
“But you never let that happen right my Lord?” Asked Brok with a bit of worry on his face and in his heart. “What about you Sir Cedric? Surely you could stop that from happening?”
“I am sorry master Dwarf, but if he is found and captured we could use the diplomatic channels to try and help get him released but your Lord Davos is corrected in this matter.”
Brok was not pleased with the answer and sat back down, arms crossed, cursing to himself in a low voice.
Davos turned back to Alucard. “Alucard I must say I am not in favour of this plan, But if this is what you believe needs to be done, we won't stop you. Just be careful."
Brok grumbled, clearly not thrilled with the idea, but he nodded in reluctant agreement. "Aye, lad. But if things get hairy, don't be too proud to ask for help."
Sir Cedric, though respecting Alucard's capabilities, had his reservations. "Alucard, I understand the need for stealth, but gathering evidence requires meticulous planning. Don't underestimate the dangers within the Church."
Alucard offered a slight smile. "I appreciate your concern, but I've faced worse. Trust me, I'll get what we need."
As Alucard had decided on his next course of action, The Divine Crusader was making port.
"Hold fast, lads! We're making port, and I want this to be smoother than a calm sea at dawn," Morgan shouted, his voice carrying over the rhythmic creaking of the ship.
The crew, disciplined and well-practised, moved with a synchronicity born of countless voyages. They furled the sails with precision, securing them in place. The sound of wooden blocks and tackles echoed as the anchor descended into the water, the massive chain rattling as it played out.
"Man the lines, and prepare to drop anchor!" Morgan's orders were met with the clatter of boots on the deck as sailors rushed to their designated posts.
Captain Tobias, a formidable figure with a salt-and-pepper beard, stood at the helm, his keen eyes scanning the scene. The crew moved with a well-practised efficiency, adjusting rigging and preparing for the imminent docking.
Part 17B continues by clicking here.
