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  1. #1
    GWOnline.Net Member Dunnoir's Avatar
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    The Just War (Part 1)

    This is basically just a set up to the main story, just telling you whats going on, whos involved etc. If feedback is generally good, I plan on continuing the story.


    Part One – The Rise of the King of Kryta


    It is the year 1073 AE, and the newly established Grand Army of Kryta marched towards the Great Northern Wall of Ascalon with murderous intent. They had already wiped out any dwarves that crossed them during their trek across the Northern Shiverpeaks, leaving nothing but ruined forts and bloodied snow behind them. Nothing was going to stand in the way of their goal: the destruction of the treacherous nation of Ascalon, the people that pleaded for their help during their time of need, only to turn on them and mercilessly slay one of Kryta’s fondest men in cold blood.

    But this story truly begins one year prior, just before the defeat of the Undead Lich inside Abbadon’s Mouth. The Chosen had reclaimed Thunderhead Keep in the name of Deldrimor, and Confessor Dorian himself led an attack force of the greatest generals of the White Mantle, fighting side by side some of the finest soldiers the Mursaat had to offer. They were, however, destroyed by the Chosen in an epic battle of magic and steel. The White Mantle were crippled, but still had the wisdom of their Unseen Gods to guide them. That is until the Titans were released from their prison. Any Mursaat that had not been killed prior to the opening of the Door of Komalie were wiped out by the immense power of the Titans. The White Mantle were left in ruins.

    However, there still lived a high ranking agent of the White Mantle, who no-one but Saul D’Alessio and Confessor Dorian knew of. When Saul first brought news of the Unseen Ones to Kryta, he knew that the Royal Family of Kryta would be his main obstacle in removing praise of the Old Gods, so he turned to their Chief Advisor, known to the public as Advisor Jemanaar. D’Alessio promised Jemanaar power and wealth beyond anything possessed by the Krytan Royals, in return for his services in advising them to follow the teaching of the Unseen Ones. However, the invasion of the Charr forces saw the Royal family flee Kryta, leaving Advisor Jemanaar to rule over the kingdom. With the defeat of the Charr at the hands of the White Mantle, Jemanaar declared himself the new King of Kryta, gave D’Alessio more and more freedom to his religion, and gradually reduced the role of the Lionguard in Kryta, leaving them only to police Lions Arch. The death of Saul D’Alessio saw Confessor Dorian take control of the White Mantle, with Dorian and Jemanaar working closely together in secret to maximise the strength of the Mantle, and to make sure the wishes of their Gods could be carried out with ease.

    Several months later, the Shining Blade returned to Kryta to inform the new King of the truth behind the White Mantle. Jemanaar was devastated at the news that his religion was all but destroyed, but put on an act of rejoice for the public to keep his true intentions hidden. His devastation soon turned to pure hatred towards the Chosen of Ascalon, angered at how they turned to Kryta for shelter during their time of need, only to repay them by destroying the very organisation that offered them help. For several days, Jemanaar locked himself away in his palace, stewing in his own anger. His hatred for the Chosen soon turned to hatred for the people of Ascalon, and as his thoughts fell to the control of his anger, he began to plan his revenge against the Kingdom of Ascalon. However, with the White Mantle reduced to small groups scattered across Tyria, and the Lionguard whittled down to nothing more than the police force of a city, he had no army to carry out his plan of revenge. Even if he had an army twice the size of that of Ascalon’s, the people of Kryta held much sympathy for Ascalon, and a full scale invasion would cause the people to rebel against him. Suddenly, his plan needed to become much more intricate.

    When he finally emerged from the darkness of his palace, he declared to the citizens of Kryta that the White Mantle were to be considered as sworn enemies of the Kingdom, and anyone able to fight should join the Lionguard in searching the lands for any remnants of the Mantle, and to bring them to Lion’s Arch where they would each be slain by the King himself. Every man and woman who was physically able joined in arms in search for the White Mantle, and, as ordered, brought those that did not fight to the death back to Lions Arch. These prisoners would become the elite of the King’s new army. After announcing his true intentions to his captives, he released them as citizens of Kryta, and they immediately signed up to the Lionguard. With Jemanaar’s influence, these men quickly worked their way through the ranks to become elite generals of the Lionguard. Over the next year, the Lionguard would grow to a size greater than it had ever been throughout Kryta’s history. Its recruits, the majority of which were citizens striving to strengthen their weakened nation, were kind hearted to the citizens, and they became the symbol of a new Kryta, a notion strengthened by the Kings frequent praise of his army. Stories of the Lionguard reached Ascalon, stories of an army that would help any man in need, and could rally the support of even the most down-trodden of people. Although it pained him to do so, King Adlebern of Ascalon himself sent a message to King Jemanaar, requesting the help of any available Lionguard forces to rebuild the ruins of Ascalon. The first part of Jemanaar’s plan was complete.

    “Ah, General Foltim. I have good news.” The Kings voice had become deep and gravely, one of the effects of being consumed by one’s own anger. General Foltim had been captured as a White Mantle agent during the rise of the Lionguard, but had quickly earned himself a position of authority, commanding a regiment of no less than 100 men, and answering only to the King himself. “We have received a message from King Adelbern.” Foltim cracked a smile.
    “I assume he is requesting our assistance in re-building his fallen nation?” Foltim spoke with a heavy Vabbian accent, as most of his life had been spent there. He rose quickly through the ranks of the White Mantle due to his ferocity in battle. His large size made it easy for him to overpower foes.
    “Yes. I believe now is an opportune moment to explain the next phase of my plan.” Jemanaar motioned for Foltim to follow and led him into a small room to the side of the palace’s main chamber, in which there was a large table covered with a detailed map of Ascalon and the surrounding areas. He locked the door behind them, and walked to the head of the table. “We are going to destroy Ascalon,” he slammed his fist onto the map. “…and everyone in it.”

    Jemanaar looked up at Foltim, who looked somewhat confused. “If I may say so, while I whole-heartedly support the destruction of Ascalon for what they did to the Mursaat, I believe that the people of Kryta hold great sympathy for them. I do not believe that your people would support an invasion of a country that has been devastated constantly for over two years, and still depends on other nations to survive.”
    Jemanaar chuckled to himself. “That, my friend, is what makes this plan so ingenious. I plan to frame the Ascalon military for the murder of the Lionguard recruits sent to help them.” The look of confusion on Foltim’s face had grown. “You see, what I plan to do is to send Captain Leesow to Ascalon City with a regiment of around 70 men, as per Adelbern’s requests. However, once inside the city, the troops will let loose, slaughtering anyone in sight and burning any buildings to the ground.” Foltim’s expression had turned from confusion to one of intrigue. “The troops must remain in the city until the Ascalon military arrives, at which point they are to be engaged, where Captain Leesow must fall in combat.” As the King paused for breath, Foltim voiced his thoughts.
    “Leesow was never a member of the White Mantle; he has nothing against the people of Ascalon and avoids violence whenever possible. It will be difficult to convince him to carry out these orders, let alone to give up his life for the cause.”
    Jemanaar looked into Foltim’s eyes.
    “That is where you come in to all this.” The look of confusion returned to Foltim’s face. “During the battle, you must allow a member of the Ascalon military to kill Leesow. The higher ranking his assailant, the better. Once Leesow is dead you are to flee the city with a handful of others, and return to Kryta. I would recommend leaving your personal regiment at Yaks Bend so that you can cross the Shiverpeaks safely on your return.” Jemanaar stepped back from the table and looked at Foltim, as if asking for his opinion. Foltim paused to gather his thoughts.
    “Well…err…I can guarantee the perfect execution of this plan…but…” he had to choose his words carefully so as not to offend his king. “…I…I must return to my point about the sympathy our people hold for Ascalon. An attack like this would cause an uproar, and even the Lionguard my take action against you.” As he talked, he could see a smile crossing Jemanaar’s face.
    “True, but we did not attack Ascalon. Our men were led into an ambush, in which only you and a handful of others managed to survive. King Adelbern has publicly announced his dislike for Krytans. When he heard stories of how much better off our country was doing when compared to his dusty ruin of a kingdom, he became enraged with jealousy. After the attack, Adelbern will demand an explanation from me for the actions of my men. I will deny any such attack, and accuse him of framing the Lionguard for killing Ascalon citizens just so he can satisfy his ego, as well as putting the renowned and peaceful Lionguard in a bad light. I will make an announcement to the people of Kryta telling them of Adlebern’s plan to kill innocent Lionguard recruits by luring them into his city with a cry for help. He will of course deny it but in the end…”
    Foltim now fully understood what his King had planned. “…in the end, the Krytans would sooner believe a kind and peaceful king than a desperate old man who has a know hatred for Krytans.” Foltim finished Jemanaar’s sentence, showing his understanding.
    “Exactly. The people will be outraged, and demand justice. Any attempts by Ascalon to deny it will only enrage the Krytans more and more, and we will have the support of our people to invade Ascalon.” Jemanaar stood back from the table and crossed his arms, smiling at Foltim. Foltim grinned back.
    “A genius plan sir…but I do however see one drawback…”
    “You refer to Captain Leesow? A man who holds nothing against Ascalon, and a man who strives to keep peace and stop violence before it even begins?”
    “Yes sir. Surely a man so well known for his peaceful tactics will not agree to slaughter innocent Ascalons?”
    “Leave that to me, general. Now, go assemble your men. Tell them nothing of what we have discussed. They need only know to leave an hour after you and Captain Leesow, and are to wait at Yaks Bend.”
    “Of course sir.” Foltim saluted his king and unlocked the door.
    “Oh and general?” Jemanaar called. “Find Captain Leesow, and send him to me at once.” Foltim nodded.
    “At once sir.” He closed the door behind him as Jemanaar sat down at the table. He leaned back in his chair and put his feet up on the table, smiling at the thought of finally taking revenge on those who destroyed his religion.

  2. #2
    GWOnline.Net Member FinnFerral's Avatar
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    This has the hallmarks of a politically intriguing story, something which I love to read about. Your writing is assured and the background history was well constructed. I hope you have more to come....

  3. #3
    GWOnline.Net Member Banes Son's Avatar
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    Ditto Finn and MORE please?

  4. #4
    GWOnline.Net Member Silverwyng's Avatar
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    yeah! i like it very much!

  5. #5
    GWOnline.Net Member Dunnoir's Avatar
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    thanks for the comments. Im working on the next part, but it may take a while cause iv just started full time employment, but it shouldnt take too long

  6. #6

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    Ahhh! /fistshake/ @ Jemanaar! What a horrible person...

  7. #7
    GWOnline.Net Member Dunnoir's Avatar
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    A long time coming....

    I know it looks like thread necromancy, but I had originally intended to write this next part a while ago, it just took me a little longer to get this done than I thought it would (about a year longer in fact ) but its done now. I know its pretty long, but believe it or not i cut some bits down to make it more digestible. This is the first bit of writing I've done in a while so any and all feedback is greatly appreciated.


    The Just War Part 2


    Captain Leesow; his reputation came before the man himself. Known throughout Kryta as a diplomat in a military position. Some were not fond of having a man who objected to violence in any shape or form being one of the most powerful men in the Krytan military. But those who knew better knew that there was no one better to lead an army, than a man who valued the lives of his men to the point that he avoided risking them at all.

    He had joined the Lionguard when he was only 18 years old, 4 years before the Charr invasion of Kryta. During the rise of the White Mantle, he was given the rank of Sergeant, and given command of 20 men with which to keep the peace in Lion’s Arch. During this time, he earned the respect of many of the citizens, always preferring to talk through tough situations, rather than charging in arresting everyone involved. It was due to this respect that Jemanaar promoted him to the rank of Captain in his new Krytan army. It was also due to his reputation that Jemanaar chose Leesow to be the key in his grand plan.

    “You sent for me, my Lord?” Captain Leesow knelt before King Jemanaar, who sat upon his throne in his grand palace chamber.

    “Ahhh! Captain Leesow, how good to see you. Please, rise.” Jemanaar waved his hand, motioning for Leesow to stand as a sly grin crept across his face. “How goes your search for Mantle remnants?”

    Leesow’s head fell as he recalled the details of his last patrol. “My Lord…” He paused to gather his words, remembering the violence that ensued with his last encounter with the White Mantle. “We discovered a small camp on the beaches of Scoundrel’s Rise, hidden within the wreckage of a ship. We believe they were attempting to flee across the Shiverpeaks and into Ascalon.”

    Jemanaar gritted his teeth as his fist clenched. The very mention of that kingdom caused his blood to boil with hatred. He forced himself to calm before he spoke. “What leads you to believe that, Captain?”

    “They had enough supplies to last them several weeks, as well as a large amount of fur skinned coats. Also, one of their party was a skilled pyromancer, whose skills would prove indispensable in the frosty climates of the mountains.”

    Jemanaar was impressed. He saw that the stories of his Captain were true. Leesow had a natural ability to decipher a situation without a word being spoken. “And what became of these traitors?” Jemanaar’s face became emotionless. He already knew the answer to his question by looking into Leesow’s eyes.

    “They were killed in battle my Lord. We offered to take them alive, but they attacked us with such ferocity…” Leesow sighed. “…we...we had no choice but to kill them. I am sorry, my King.” His head fell again.

    Jemanaar took a deep breath before he spoke. “You have no need to apologize, Captain. You have done your duty well for more than four seasons. I am aware of your feelings towards violence, and am grateful that you still devote yourself to our cause.”

    “Thank you, my Lord.” Leesow bowed to his King.

    “You deserve more than a mere thank you, Captain Leesow, and you will get what you truly deserve. But first, I ask just one more task of you.” Jemanaar rose from his throne and walked slowly toward Leesow.

    “My Lord?” Leesow looked up at Jemanaar with a look of intrigue.

    “I have received a request from King Adelbern of Ascalon. He has heard stories of our great army, led by kind-hearted people such as yourself. He has requested our assistance.” Jemanaar stopped in front of Leesow.

    “He has asked for assistance against the Charr?”

    “No no. It is not our military strength has requires. He has heard stories of the new Lionguard. The Lionguard that not only protects its citizens, but that helps and respects them. The Lionguard that helps to improve their quality of life. He has heard of how the Lionguard has turned Kryta from a nation on the edge of collapse to the thriving kingdom it is today. And he wants the same for his people.”

    Leesow felt uneasy after hearing this news. “King Adelbern has requested the help of Krytans? My Lord, if I may say, Adelbern has publicly stated his disliking of Krytans. He still carries a grudge started during the last Guild Wars. This request sounds like a trap.”

    Jemanaar stood beside Leesow, resting his hand on his shoulder. “You are correct in your suspicions, Captain. We have had agents operating in Ascalon since the end of the Wars, and they have informed us of Adelbern’s terrible plan.” A look of horror came across Leesow’s face.

    Jemanaar took a long, drawn breath before explaining. “Adelbern has requested that the Lionguard proceed through Ascalon to Ascalon City, where they apparently need the most help.” He began to circle Leesow, running his hand across his shoulders as he moved. “Everyone in the city will be armed, waiting for our forces. They will strike when we least expect it, wiping out our men quickly and without resistance.”

    Leesow’s face began to fill with confusion. “But why? Why would he provoke war with us when his forces are still recovering from the Charr’s assaults?”

    Jemanaar smiled. “Because he is a desperate man. He believes that the only way for his kingdom to rebuild itself is to take supplies from ours, and, being the hateful man he is, he sees war as the only way to do this.”

    Leesow stammered as he tried to come to grips with what he had just been told.“Wha...How would you suggest we handle this situation? It is delicate to say the least. It seems clear that Adelbern wishes for war against our people.” Leesow voice began to sound panicked. He calmed himself down, remembering that he was in the presence of a King.

    “I have formulated a plan, Captain, but I regret that it involves you and your men.” Jemanaar stood face to face with Leesow.

    “What would you have me do?” Leesow’s voice carried a hint of despair. He could guess what his King was about to ask of him.

    “You are my most trusted Captain, Leesow. You have served me well this last year. Stories of your peaceful methods have carried over the Shiverpeaks. When Adelbern learns that you have been sent to help his people, the last thing he will be expecting is an attack.”

    “An attack, my Lord?” Leesow’s concern had been confirmed.

    “I’m afraid so, my friend. An attack on Ascalon City will send a message to Adelbern that our kindness is not to be exploited. We have worked hard to restore this nation, and I refuse to see it broken by an old man with a grudge. I realize that you are not happy with this course of action, Captain Leesow, but I believe it to be the only way to prevent an all out war. Think of it was pouring water over a burning bush before it sets the forest alight.”

    Leesow took a breath to offer an alternative, but that alternative never entered his mind. He knew that there was no peaceful way of resolving this situation. Adelbern was jealous of Kryta’s success, and wanted it burn it to the ground simply to sooth his ego. While he wasn’t happy about sending his men into a large-scale battle, he knew that it was the only course of action that would prevent an all out war against a bitter mad-man with nothing to lose. He drew a long sigh as he prepared to give his response. “Very well. How would you have me go about the attack?”

    Jemanaar face had turned emotionless. He knew that if he was seen to display any emotion other than sorrow or regret, then his grand scheme would fail. He moved back towards his throne as he answered. “You will take 70 men of your choosing directly to Ascalon City. If anyone should stop you for any reason, assure them that King Adelbern is expecting you there. When you reach the city, spread your forces out amongst the Ascalonians. It is this time when you will launch your attack. Their military will be disguised as civilians, so leave no one alive. Their buildings will be full of weaponry, so your pyromancers and geomancers should concentrate on leveling them first.” Jemanaar lowered himself into his throne. “There is a likelihood that they will send for reinforcements. If that happens, you must not flee. If you or your men retreat, it will give Adelbern the impression that we can be defeated, and he will most likely launch a full scale invasion of Kryta.”

    Leesow felt uneasy upon hearing his orders. “You wish me to fight to my death, my Lord? You wish to send 70 of my best men to die on Ascalonian soil?” His voice was beginning to shake.

    Jemanaar’s face turned blank. Would Leesow continue to fight when he knew he couldn’t win? His voice became stern. “No, Captain Leesow. I wish for you and your men to strike at Ascalon in such a way that they will never forget.” His voiced returned to a more sympathetic tone, and rested his hand on Leesow's shoulder. “With your surprise attack on their forces, most of their military strength will be defeated within minutes. Any reinforcements they receive will be the soldiers they did not deem experienced enough to take part in their ambush. Once you have cleared the city of their forces, you will make a hasty return to Yak’s Bend. Heal your wounded there, and rest your troops for the trek back across the mountains. When you arrive back in Lion’s Arch, report to me for your debriefing.”

    Leesow paused for a moment to make sure he fully understood his orders. “I understand. When would you have me leave?”

    “You leave at first light tomorrow. You have until then to assemble your men.”

    “As you wish, my Lord.” Leesow bowed before his king before standing to attention.

    “You are dismissed, Captain Leesow. Good luck my friend. Bring glory to our great nation.” Jemanaar stood as he dismissed his Captain for the last time.
    Leesow gave a salute before he spoke.

    “I will, my King. I will return with news of success, or I will not return at all.”

    With that, Leesow turned and headed out of the grand palace. Jemanaar
    waited until he had gone before he headed toward one of the many guest rooms within the palace. General Foltim had been waiting in the palace to be given the order to lead his men to Yak’s Bend. Jemanaar opened the door to Foltim’s room.
    “General. Gather your men and your equipment. Leesow and his force are leaving at first light. I want you to be there to bid him farewell and good luck. You and your men will leave shortly after them.”

    “Yes, my Lord. I shall begin my preparations immediately.”

    Jemanaar stood still as Foltim gathered his belonging and left to find his men. After his General had left, Jemanaar retired to his private quarters to rest. As he walked through the empty, stone corridors, he began to daydream of Ascalon’s destruction. The image of its people defeated, lying at the feet of their new ruler caused a smile to spread across his face. He only wished he could go himself, and lay waste to all that stood against him. But that was not part of his plan. To do so would be to destroy the plan he had been preparing for more than 4 seasons. His time for revenge would come, but it would only come when the time was right.

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