Season One

**The Duke of Charr**

**Emote:** Howl sits on his throne room, alone, picking something out of his teeth.

**Emote:** Korg Stomps into the throne, fuming.

**Korg-** Howl. We have a problem.

**Howl** –
Ah, hello the…what?'

**Korg -**Noipros has accused us of attacking Viseron. He married Lady Targareyen, and is
now regent of all Tyria.

**Howl’s mouth twitches**

**Howl –**He…he what?'

**Howl Blinks. Breathing intensifies**

**Howl –**That…rat-faced…PIG BASTARD!
 **Threatening**

**Korg -**Agreed

**Howl –**How… HOW…DARE HE! THAT…AND HE…AND I THEN…AND…
**Threatening**

**Korg –**Howl

**Howl –
I** WILL I- WHAT?'

**Korg –**Try to calm down. We need a plan.

**Howl’s face is wild** **Howl –**Plan?'

**Korg –**Yes**.**

**Howl –**I WILL…. I WILL… I…
Howl seems to notice Korg, as it for the
first time.

**Howl –**I…
 **Howl takes a deep breath**

**Howl –**Yes, that would seem…to make SENSE.
Howl Growls.

**Korg tentatively places a hand on Howl’s
shoulder.****Howl trembles in rage.**

**Howl –**I will…rip his fucking head off…'

**Korg –**Surely you will…but for now, it is the Royal army we need to worry about. And
more, besides.'

**Howl –**And he…he has…he has…a royal…fucking…army. How grand. How grand for dear
Noipros.

**Korg –**Reports are scattered…but I have heard whispers… Lucas Winchester is dead.
Undoubtedly Noipros will appoint a loyal thrall in the Grove. And undoubtedly
he has much power in Rata Sum.

**Howl –
(growls)** Oh, of *course*, he will, of course…
Right then. Oh, Noipros, `this’ is not how we do things, this is `beneath’ us…

**Korg takes a deep breath**

**Korg –**Also…

**Howl –**What?

**Korg –**It seems a large number of the nobles in Reach were killed as well. An
accidental fire, as they say…though we know how true that is**.**

**Howl –**(laughs) Oh, but of course. But of *course*.

**Korg –**Whatever you once thought of Noipros…he is an enemy now…and a base and gauche
one at that.

**Howl –**To say the LEAST! Very well…yes…fine. FINE NOIPROS. You don’t wanna play the
game anymore? Very well. Let’s see how you like my wrath.

**Korg –**I have some basic plans…if you with them.

**Howl –**
Oh, I do too…but speak**.**

**Korg –**We need to have our name cleared of this baseless accusation…strip Noipros of
his lands, titles, and power once again. And then…we need to prepare for the
storm to come**.**

**Howl –**
We need to `strip’ him of FLESH FROM HIS BODY! **(growls)**

**Korg –**
We need both the Norn and *Pinky*.

**Howl –**
I know we do.**Howl’s lip twitches. Howl’s eyes glance off
to the side.**

**Howl –**
Vialeth!

**Vialeth
–** Squawk?

**Howl removes Vialeth from her moa form
immediately**

**Korg –**The Norn should be here too.

**Vialeth
–** Duke Howl? What is it?

**Howl –**Yes, I will get the damn Norn.

**Vialeth
–** Is something wrong?

**Korg –**
Silence. We will explain soon.

**Howl takes out a coin and fiddles with it.**

**Howl –**Damn…useless…fucking…thing!

**Draugr Brandrsson appears out of the shadows
quietly, holding the coin, his face solemn.**

**Draugr
–** Duke.

**Vialeth is surprised.**

**Howl –**There you are. Oh. Draugr, Vialeth, Vialeth, Draugr.

**Vialeth
–** Is…is this safe?

**Korg –**You two, we have grave news.

**Howl –**Let him `try’ anything. I am in no mood.

**Draugr looks over the sylvari, his face
betrays nothing.**

**Howl grinds his teeth.**

**Vialeth nods, giving her attention to Korg.**

**Draugr then turns to study Howl, his eyes
traces, taking in microdetails.**

**Korg –**
Noipros has accused us of attacking Viseron, almost killing the King. He has
married Lady Targareyen under these false pretenses, and is acting as standing
King.

**Howl –
(growls)** Fucking Noipros.

**Draugr
–** Hmph, should have killed him when we had the chance.

**Vialeth
–** Noipros! So…that’s what this was all about, then. He just wanted the throne
for himself.

**Howl –**
Oh, YOU THINK?

**Korg –**
Howl. Come down.**Howl growls, clenching and unclenching his
fists.**

**Draugr stands with his arms crossed, his
weight shifted onto his right foot, his face relatively impassive.**

**Korg –**
Vialeth…unless the Duke sees fit to assign you another task, I plan for you to
find out the truth about Viseron. If possible, find where he is.

**Vialeth
–** As..as a moa?

**Korg –**
Under the circumstances, I think you as you will be more effective. If barely.
But if
you wish to be a moa…**Howl through gritted teeth, but, calmer.**

**Howl –**
Can you…remain…undetected…as yourself?

**Vialeth
–** I…I think I can.

**Korg –**You better. For your sake.

**Draugr
–** Hmm…see me before you leave Vialeth, I can help with that.

**Vialeth
–** I’ll do my best. I’d…I’d like not to go back.

**Korg –**
To being a Moa?

**Howl –**And our’s **(growled)**

**Korg –**Or to go back to Reach?

**Vialeth
–** Oh! I didn’t mean… I meant to being a moa. I…I’ll do as you ask.

**Korg –**Good. That is good. Draugr.

**Draugr
–** Hmm?

**Korg –**If they take these steps, then military action is not beyond

**(Missed these parts)**

**Howl –**No. I have plans for Draugr.

**Draugr
–** No, I’d imagine not.

**Korg –**If they enter our swamp, I want you to show them the full pesti-
Howl?

**Howl –**I have plans for the Norn.

**Draugr raises an eyebrow**

**Howl –**Draugr.

**Draugr
–** Duke.

**Howl –**Do you have… `**Howl takes a very deep breath, and manages a sardonic smile…** Do
you have any fellow Norn you can draw upon?

**Draugr thinks for a moment**

**Draugr
– I have some people that will do me a few favors…how many do you need and for
what purpse?**

**Howl - *Loyal*, trustworthy ones?**

**Draugr grits his teeth**

**Draugr
– Yes.**

**Howl –
How many can you get?**

**Draugr
– How many do you want?**

**Howl –
At least twenty.**

**Draugr
– Hmm… I can get half that, but they’re good.**

**Howl –
(growls) Fine**

**Korg –
How about those who would be loyal for four walls, a roof, and food in their
bellies?**

**Howl –
I want you to gather these men, and take them to Gendarran. Take
them…someplace…(sigh)…someplace…out-of-the way.**

**Korg –
I have an idea.**

**Howl –
What?**

**Draugr
– They would be trash, gutter sitters, the Norn do not tolerate weakness, those
who work for such simple means are either tired or weak. The first is
acceptable, the second, shameful.**

**Howl –
No. Ten loyal, good folk that we can trust.**

**Draugr
– I can get you those**

**Howl –
Excellent. Yes. Good.**

**Korg –
Go to Mrot Boru…in Brisban. A short march west of there you will find the ruins
of Fort Koga.**

**Howl –
Fort Koga?**

**Korg –
It has some ghosts, but they are mostly docile.**

**Howl ponders.**

**Draugr’s eyes glitter at the
implication**

**Korg –
But its stone walls. And defensible terrain.**

**Howl –
Go there, under the pretence of being refugees from….**

**Howl ponders**

**Korg –
From Jormag.**

**Howl –
You are refugees who’s village were burned by Svanir… (grunts) `Or’ Jormag.**

**Draugr
– They disguise as a mercenary group, the bandits of the area provide all the
reason they need to be there, they can disguise themselves as that. No Norn
would run so far from Jormag.**

**Korg –
Howl? Is that acceptable to you?**

**Howl –
(Growls louder) Fine.**

**Draugr
– The calls will take perhaps twenty minutes, then I wait. What should I do in
the mean time?**

**Howl -
`Establish’ yourselves, and await further instruction. Meantime? Get ready to
move. Pack.**

**Vialeth
– Wait…Draugr? You said you could help me…stay hidden somehow.**

**Draugr
– Ah yes, one moment.**

**He reaches into his pack and rummages around,
he pulls out a dark stone, he pauses, holding it for a second, then he tosses
it to Vialeth**

**Draugr
– Attach that to a pendant.**

**Vialeth
– A pendant? What will it do?**

**Draugr
– Speak the words "Noxus" to activate it, and "Luxus" to deactivate it. Shadows
will cling to you and so long as you avoid the light, none shall see you. I
cannot do anything about noise but that should help at least a little.**

**Vialeth
– Thank you. I don’t know who you are, or what you do for Howl, but…you have my
gratitude.**

**Draugr
– Be careful how much you use though, it must recharge on moonlight and is good
for a total of about two hours walking around  once charged.**

**Vialeth
– (***nods)* Understood**.**

**Howl –
Draugr. I am very angry now. But, heed my words.**

*Howl's**fists still shake lightly***.**

**Howl –
Your…mate… What is his name?****Draugr
– Tora.****Howl –
Tora. If you do this for me. If you do this… Mark my words. There will be no
man, Charr, Sylvari, Norn or Asura in Tyria… Who could bring him to harm. Do
you understand me? He will be untouchable.****Draugr relaxes ever so slightly.****Draugr
– I undersand.****Howl –
Good. Well? Anything else?****Draugr looks at Howl strangely but says
nothing.****Korg –
Well, then… you two know what you’re doing. Go do it.****Vialeth bows.****Korg salutes.****Howl still fumes, silently.****Korg nods at Draugr.****Draugr steps back into the shadows and is
gone, he nods respectfully to Korg****Vialeth
– I’ll find Viseron. And I’ll find out the truth. Good luck, until then.****Korg –
Good luck.****Korg waits until Vialeth is gone and as
Draugr to make sure****Korg –
Howl****Howl –
What?****Korg –
Who is your military commander? We need a plan.****Howl –
Who else, you fool? You are.****Korg –
(blinks) Very well..do I have your permission to move forward?****Howl –
Yes, yes, do whatever.****Howl let’s out a very frustrated sound, and
kicks over his throne. Breathes heavily. Korg hesistates for a moment…and then
he hugs Howl from behind.****Korg –
It’ll be okay, my love.****Howl lets out…another sound. A sob?****Howl –
Why don’t…we just…we just… Leave…****Korg –
Just you and me?****Howl nods, deflating. Korg lets go of Howl
long enough to move in front of Howl. How’s eyes are teary. Korg hugs Howl
again.****Korg –
Its play, my beautiful dear… I will not allow anything to harm you…and…besides,
I promised you a crown…not the life of a fugitive.****Howl –
You…will make me…king. That is what you said to me…****Korg –
I will do it.****Howl is quiet for a moment.****Howl –
For me…there would be no queen though, I do not…I do not…like women… What…what
will they call you then, I wonder…?****Howl nestles his face in Korg’s shoulders.****Korg –
Well…if his Kingship would have me…they will call me whatever he tells them to
call me.****Howl -
…Beloved. Korg… K-Korg…  I…****His eyes fill with fear.****Howl –
I… I-I… I..I-I… (pant) I….looove…you…****Korg kisses Howl…long and deep…before pulling
back.****Korg –
I see you now…my beauty…a great king…with a crown of brilliant crystal.****Howl lays his head on Korg’s shoulder, and
sighs.****Howl –
I don’t need a crown…I… (quietly) just need you.****Holds Howl, mocking him gently.**

**The False Kings’s Escape**

**Howl the
servant clears his throat, and walks straight into the court, his pointed noise
stuck up in the air.**
**Noipros
– Can I…help you?**
**Howl bows**
**Noipros
– Queen Targaryen. And King Noipros**
**Howl –
Apologies, your Grace.**
**Howl bows**
**Noipros
– Better.**
**Rhaenara
– All is well, charr.**
**Rhaenara side eyes Noipros**
**Howl –
I am an envoy formally sent to the Queen, and…King, and the Court of Divinity’s
Reach on behalf of House Fauxfang.**
**Noipros shrugs**
**Noipros
– Oh?**
**Howl bows**
**Rhaenara ponders**
**Noiros
– And?**
**Rhaenara
feels her blood boil at the mention of House Fauxfang.**
**Howl –
Yes. I have a formal message to be relayed by my Lord, the Duke Howl Fauxfang,
the Humble.**
**Noipros
laughs**
**Noipros
– Humble?**
**Howl –
That was my input to relay.**
**Noipros
– Oh, sorry, my friend, continue.**
**Rhaenara looks on, waiting for the message.**
**Howl stares blankly forward, not looking at
either the King or Queen.**
**Howl –
The Duke Howl would like to inform you all the charges against him are false.
His Dukeship did in no way harm the King Visceron. That these claims have
wounded him deeply, for he only holds the Crown in the highest or regards.**
**Noipros
– Does his dukeship have any proof?**
**Howl –
Yes.**
**Noipros
– Where is it?**
**Rhaenara
– The proof is all on the King’s body!**
**Howl’s tone is flat**
**Noipros looks intensively**
**Howl –
The body was left with claw marks. All Charr have claws. The proof of his
innocence is the entirety of his Court, his servants, and myself.**
**Noipros
– Did you witness Howl committing the crime?**
**Howl –
I witnessed him in his House the entire week that this crime was committed.**
**Noipros ponders**
**Rhaenara
– Why would any other charr have the intent to harm the King, but the Duke?**
**Noipros
– You do realize your duke is a Mesmer? With a simple snap of his fingers, he
can trick all of you.**
**Howl –
I realize no things, only the Duke has insight. The Duke would also have the
Court know that Howl is not the only Mesmer at play.**
**Noipros crosses his arms**
**Noipros
– The duke must realize which Mesmer plays the game better.**
**Howl –
What Mesmer could benefit from the death of the former King? This humble
servant knows not.**
**Howl turns his blank eyes to Noipros**
**Noipros
– Until the Duke proves his innocence, his is an enemy of the crown.**
**Rhaenara looks on, listening to the back and
forth**
**Howl –
Games? Yes. Howl spoke to me of games to me, before he sent me on his way…**
**How’s ear twitches**
**Noipros stares blankly**
**Howl –
He told this humble servant that you broke the game, Noipros. You ruined the
fun. He is very sad.**
**Noipros
– Oh is he?**
**Rhaenara looks at Noipros confusedly.**
**Noipros
– Servant, look at me.**
**Rhaenara
– What do you mean by all this…**
**Howl’s eyes *at* Noipros, in his general direction.**
**Noipros places a gentle hand on his queen’s
shoulder.**
**Noipros
– Howl ruined the game years ago when his father killed mine.**
**Rhaenara freezes up, trying to ease to the
King’s touch.**
**Howl –
I have no instruction on this. Your state is irrelevant.**
**Noipros
– As is your message. Leave before I have you escorted.**
**Howl –
Hear me, Court of the Reach…**
**Noipros crosses his arms, listening
carefully.**
**Howl –
The Duke Howl was wrongfully accused. The proof is not. He formally asks that
you see reason, and not cast aside the greatest ally to the Crown, the one true
loyal amongst all other lords.**
**Rhaenara adjusts her posture, trying to look
as regal as possible.**
**Howl –
His eyes wept for the former King, his eyes weep for the current King, and his
eyes weep to see you all turn on his….**
**Noipros
– You know, my queen, this messenger seems awfully like a lawyer.**
**Howl –
The entirely of his House in the Arbor can attest to his innocence, at once you
must refute your claim.**
**Noipros
– I did not realize this was a trail.**
**Howl –
We beseech ye. After all, there are greater risks, aren’t there Noipros?**
**Noipros guards surround the messenger.**
**Noipros
– You’ve overstayed your welcome.**
**Howl –
Are there not….Dragons….to contend with?**
**Rhaenara freezes at the word `dragons’.**
**Howl –
You have ruined the fun, and now…and now…**
**Noipros
– Guards!**
**Noipros guards surround and lean close**
**Rhaenara calls out to the messenger as guards
surround him.**
**Noipros
– What…are you…**
**Noipros sees the messenger’s face distort.**
**Howl stares into Noipros’ eyes**
**Rhaenara
– Let the Duke know, that H-Noipros?**
**Noipros
– No…I… I love…the game…**
**Noipros notices the messenger’s fangs
elongate, and glows purple. He hears a faint whisper `the game is over’**
**Noipros
– LEAVE! GET OUT!**
**Howl vanishes. Noipros clutches his head and
kneels.**
**Rhaenara
– Guards! Search the Palace! Search the city!**
**Noipros
– Rhaenara….**
**Noipros headache dissipates**
**Rhaenara
– Noipros, are you well? What was that?**
**Rhaenara kneels**
**Noipros
– I…I don’t like you very much… You know that?**
**Rhaenara looks around.**
**Noipros takes his crown off and holds it in
his hands.**
**Noipros
– But. I respect you, enough to tell you what I really want.**
**Rhaenara chuckles, and says loud enough only
for Noipros to hear.**
**Noipros holds the crown close to his chest.**
**Rhaenara
– I’m glad the feeling is almost mutual. I agree with not liking you.**
**Rhaenara looks back at the nobility, smiling
to indicate that all is well and good.**
**Noipros
– Can we go somewhere private? I need to tell you something.**
**Noipros takes his queen gently by the hand.**
**Rhaenara smiles**
**Noipros
– Of course, love.**
**Noipros free of the sight, of nobles, frowns.**
**Rhaenara puts a hand idly on her focus.**
**Rhaenara
– Yes?**
**Noipros
– That messenger… He’s reminded me of who I am. Of why I’ve killed, and why I
did what I did.**
**Rhaenara
– I could have reminded you of that by showing you where the toilets are.**
**Noipros chuckles**
**Noipros
– Oh my sweet queen, careful now.**
**Rhaenara
– Just because we are in this together, and because you’ve saved the One True
King, don’t presume I don’t know what kind of person you are.**
**Noipros
– You don’t think I’ve noticed have you? At the mere mention of dragons, your
expression…changes.**
**Rhaenara
– Well, of course. The sigil of my House is the dragon of my ancestral lands.
That messenger could be sending a threat to my House.**
**Noipros
– I’ve worked with the Inquest for years, my love. I can smell dragon energy
from miles away. But no, that’s…not what I pulled you here.**
**Rhaenara looks disinterested.**
**Noipros
– Kudu has stolen from me something very…important.**
**Rhaenara
– A pacifier, perhaps?**
**Noipros looks irritated**
**Rhaenara
– What is it?**
**Noipros
– A crystal…from Kralkarorik.**
**Rhaenara tries to control her expressions**
**Noipros
– He’s broken it and I need another. Mordrenach is coming.**
**Rhaenara laughs**
**Rhaenara
– An Elder Dragon? I did not come here to listen to you joke around.**
**Noipros
– Very well.**
**Noipros takes the crown in his hand and looks
at Rhaenara solemnly.**
**Noipros
– You are just as useless as I thought.**
**Noipros drops the crown**
**Rhaenara looks on at the display of
foolishness, thinking `almost as pitiful as a centaur who can’t run’**
**Noipros
– I resign as king. Let your kingdom fall part. Mordrenach is all that matters.**
**Rhaenara
– Oh, finally, I can take out all these diapers from the room then.**
**Noipros
– Oh...by the way… I’ve received reports of farmers leaving Queensdale over the
expensive tax. Nobles aren’t too happy either… Your kingdom will fall into
debt.**
**Rhaenara
– Maybe if we had an intelligent Master of Coin, hmm?**
**Noipros
– We? There is no more we, my love. I have business to attend, and you will not
help. Good luck, your grace.**
**Rhaenara bows**
**Rhaenara
– Make sure to flush yourself on the way out!**
**Rhaenara calls over the guards.**
**Rhaenara
– Guards, find the Master of Coin. Bring him.**
**Scene 2**
**Blintoc is messing with his coins.**
**Noipros gasps for air**
**Rhaenara’s guards are running around outside.**
**Noipros
– Raza, Blintoc, collect your things.**
**Raza –
My Lord, welco- By Grenth, what happened?**
**Blintoc
– What? Why?**
**Noipros
– Don’t ask questions. Just do it! Go, collect your notes.**
**Blintoc
– Are we going on a vacation?**
**Raza is panicking**
**Noipros
looks around frantically**
**Noipros
– Yes. Yes we are.**
**Blintoc ponders**
**Blintoc
– Seems irresponsible.**
**Noipros
– Get your things!**
**Blintoc
– Also, we can’t afford a vacation.**
**Rhaenara’s guards outside `Where are the
Masters of Coin and Whispers?’**
**Raza gets some files**
**Noipros slams the table**
**Noipros
– Now!**
**Raza –
Should we burn the rest?**
**Noipros
– Yes. Start a fire.**
**Blintoc
– Well, good golly, Mr. Noipros, you seem quite in a rush. Maybe you should
calm down.**
**Noipros kicks the box and Blintoc falls down**
**Raza starts a small fire**
**Noipros
– Do it what I say now, or you’ll die. Please. Go.**
**Noipros grabs Blintoc and carries him out**
**Rhaenara’s guards run toward the fire,
ignoring Noipros, and run to alert the Queen.**
**Raza looks back at the rising flames,
laughing**
**Blintoc
– Mr. Noipros! Who is this lady?**
**Rhaenara
– Guards, you fools! Clean up this mess!**
**Blintoc
– She seems like a bad guy.**
**Noipros
– Hush.**
**Blintoc ponders**
**Blintoc
– Er…girl.**
**Rhaenara
– The bastard did it after all.**
**Noipros puts his hand over Blintoc’s mouth.**
**Blintoc
– Shush? SHUSH?!**
**Noipros
– Nice work, Raza.**
**Blintoc bites with his sharp point teeth.**
**Noipros recoils.**
**Rhaenara
– Guards, ground all airships and blockade the docks. No one leaves or enters
the city.**
**Raza gives a huge, unsettling grin to Noipros**
**Blintoc
– Now I have had quite enough of this nonsense!**
**Rhaenara looks on at the war room, in ruins.**
**Blintoc
– What is the meaning of this?!**
**Noipros kneels and grabs Blintoc by the
collar.**
**Noipros
– Listen to me! We are no longer welcome here.**
**Blintoc
– What did you do?!**
**Noipros
– Nothing. Blin, nothing.**
**Blintoc
– Sounds like it.**
**Noipros
– Listen, we have to go. Back to Rata Sum.**
**Blintoc
– No! I have an important job to do!**
**Raza –
Oh thank the gods…**
**Noipros
– You’ve done your job.**
**Blintoc
– What?**
**Noipros
– You’ve done it well.**
**Blintoc
– I mean, I know.**
**Noipros
– We need to return to Rata Sum and from there, to the Dragonbrand.**
**Blintoc
– But don’t know why I would stop now.**
**Noipros
– Maybe in the future, Blin, but for now… We leave.**
**Blintoc scowls**
**Raza –
The guards, Noipros…**
**Noipros
– Come closer, guys. Let’s get out of here.**
**Blintoc sulks.**
**Noipros creates a portal to Queendale.**

**The Duchess of Snow**

**Servant – L-Lady
Taiga, wake up. I have bad news to tell you.**
**Melissa looks down at her with a tired
expression and ticked off.**
**Melissa
– Yes? What is it you woke me up for this time?**
**Servant
– I am afraid tell you that, umm, your mother and father…just died on their
quest to kill the dragon, Jormag. I am very sorry My Lady. But I was requested
to ask that we immediately make you the new ruler of Hoelbrak.**
**Melissa
– I cannot believe it. You waking me up to play another prank on me. If this is
a prank, then you have a bad taste of them, my parents are the best hunters in
the country, how could they just be defeated that easily?**
**Servant
– I am not joking my lady, honest, I am deeply sorry for your loss, we need a
new ruler and that is you.**
**Melissa slams her fist down onto the bed,
breaking it in half, mixture of feeling sad and angry.**
**Melissa
– JORMAG!!! He kills hundreds of my people relentless, and now my parents, he
will pay.**
**Melissa stands up and puts on her coat.**
**Melissa
– Servant, where are the guards who went with them? Any survivors?**
**Servant
– I am afraid only one has survived and he was the one who told us.**
**Melissa
– And where may I find this soldier of mine?**
**Servant
– His is in critical condition at the Great Lodge, we are doing all we can to
save him my lady. My lady? If I may ask what I can do for you, well since your
family is well…**
**Melissa
– Tears are for later servant, I was taught to take action and not cry. I have
later time to mourn them, as bad as I did not want to be the next ruler and
just focus on being a great hunter, I must carry on my family’s will. So, is
the soldier awake right now?**
**Servant
– I’m afraid not, my Lady. He passed out after saying the Duke and Duchess of
Hoelbrak was dead. We are preparing a party in your honor to be crowned the
next Duchess of Hoelbrak.**
**Melissa
– A PARTY!!? I have no time for parties and fancy things, I seek revenge on
Jormag… I will feast and drink til my heart is content when he is long and
dead. So, does the other Dukes, Duchess’s and the Kingdom know of their passing
yet?**
**Servant
– No, why?**
**Melissa
– Good, prefer them not to be here breathing down my back right now. Want to
get Hoelbrak back on its feet before we tell the world of me. I will be on my
way to the Great Lodge to check on my soldiers condition, you come with me.**
**Scene 2**
**Wolfborn
– Oh my lady, how are you feeling?**
**Melissa
– Not the best, but enough about me, how is the guard who was brought in?**
**Wolfborn
– He just woke up, our healer from Bear treated him.**
**Melissa breathes a sigh of relief**
**Melissa
– Is he able to have visitors talk to him right now? I like to know something.**
**Wolfborn
– Yes, but not long visits, make it short.**
**Melissa nods and goes to find him**
**Valla –
Oh, my Lady, you doing alright?**
**Melissa
– I was told you knew where the guard who fought alongside my parents was,
where I can I find him?**
**Valla –
Oh, did the Wolfborn tell you? We took him to Bear to rest, he fell asleep as
they we’re carrying him out, if you want to see him…you might should wait till
tomorrow.**
**Melissa
– Alright, my questions will have to wait then, his recovery is needed, he might
know something to help me defeat Jormag.**
**Melissa ponders**
**Melissa
– So, do my people know of their rulers demise?**
**Valla –
No, just me, the servant who I sent to you and a few other knights.**
**Melissa
– I see…very well then. Keep me posted on the guards condition, I need think
and process all that has happened.**
**Valla –
Okay my Lady, take care and rest well.**

**Truth Seeking**

**Vialeth –
Pelumba! You got my note!**
**Pelumba
– Vialeth! Is that really you?**
**Vialeth
– I…yes. I thought it would be safe to trust you. Was I right?**
**Pelumba looks around and grabs Vialeth’s arm
and pull her towards the pillar.**
**Pelumba
– What are you doing here?**
**Vialeth
– I don’t think…I can tell you that. But I don’t mean anyone any harm. Have you
been well? Have the other guards?**
**Pelumba
– The other… Yes, yes we’re all fire, but what are you  doing out in the
open?! Do you know what would happen if you were seen? Of followed?! I
shouldn’t even be talking to you right now! I shouldn’t even be talking to you
right now!**
**Vialeth
– I’m being careful. I have…a bit of magic I’m using. I won’t get you into
trouble, Pelumba, that’s not why I’m here. But I need information.**
**Pelumba
– Well I am glad to see you, and unharmed at that. What do you need?**
**Vialeth
– I need to know what I’m getting myself into. I’ve heard only…rumors, of
what’s been happening in Divinity’s Reach, but nothing definite. And if you
know the location of King Viseron… I’m not here to hurt him, I swear it! I just
need to know where he is.**
**Pelumba
– The king? I’m afraid I don’t know, I haven’t heard word of him for some time.**
**Vialeth
– That’s all right. I’ll find out…somehow. But what’s happened here? Things
are…everyone seems on edge.**
**Pelumba
– Oh yes, I suppose things would seem off it you haven’t been here for a while…**
**Vialeth
– They say…that Lord Noipros is king, now?**
**Pelumba
– Yes, Lord Noipros and Lady Targarian were wed, but there was a terrible… I
mean to say… At the reception, the building collapsed in on itself, a fire I’m
told. All the nobles that attended were killed.**
**Vialeth
– That’s awful! And…terribly suspicious, I think.**
**Pelumba
– I think you and I can put together what probably REALLY happened, but there’s
no proof.**
**Vialeth
– There wouldn’t be, I imagine. But Rha…Queen Rhaemara was unharmed?**
**Pelumba
– She and Noipros were elsewhere at the time, as far as I know she’s fine.**
**Vialeth
– Thank the Pale Tree.**
**Pelumba
– Actually I saw her not too long ago.**
**Vialeth
– Did you? How is she? Noipros hasn’t…done anything to her, has he?**
**Pelumba
– She seemed very...what’s the word… Displeased? Like she wasn’t happy to be
there. But who could blame here? I doubt Lord Noipros was at the top of her
list.**
**Vialeth
– Of course he wasn’t! But Ko- I think he lied to her to get her to marry him.
And I’m here to disprove that lie**

**The Boneyard**

**Matithias
arrives with his crew on the beaches of Orr. A ship pulls to the sand and a
platoon of soldiers hop out to secure the area. The land of Orr is not as
dangerous as it once was but the presence of the undead still lingers. He
commands his troops to refurbish an abandoned pack base.**
**Matithias – I want these walls fortified before
my feet dry! Lierrn, I want you to oversee the camp supplies. Make sure we are
stocked and prepared for anything.**
**Lierrn salutes**
**Lierrn – Yes, sir. Permission to speak freely,
sir?**
**Matithias – Speak.**
**Lierrn – It’s just that…there’s been talk, and
the soldiers have been complaining. They don’t understand what we’re doing
here. Sir, what *are* we doing here?**
**Matithias – You know coming to Orr feels a bit
like coming home to me. I suppose it’s more appropriate now than ever.**
**Lierrn raises her eyebrows very slightly but
doesn’t say anything.**
**Matithias – My parents met here. They were just
kids at the time. They didn’t know much of anything, they just knew that there
was a dragon and that their kingdom needed them.**
**Lierrn – You parents were soldiers, here, Sir?**
**Matithias – They were. My mother was a captain.
My father was a blacksmith.**
**Lierrn – I…see. Are we here to find them? Sir?**
**Matithias – No no, I wouldn’t trouble you with
that. They passed quite some time ago.**
**Lierrn – I’m sorry to hear that, sir.**
**Matithias – But I’m not just telling you that
for no reason. You see, before my father passed, I was his apprentice. He
taught me almost everything he knew, but he was called back into action before
he was able to teach me one last trick. No, we are here so I can do my father
proud. So I can accomplish a task he only ever dreamed of perfecting.**
**Lierrn – What’s that, sir?**
**Matithias – You’ll see when I get back.**
**Lierrn looks defeated.**
**Lierrn – Of course, sir. (salutes)**
**Matithias – I’m going on a little expedition on
my own. You are acting commander until I return. Understood?**
**Lierrn – Understand, Sir Matithias! (salutes)**
**Matithias stops and prepares himself for
battle**
**Lierrin – Hail, traveler.**
**Matithias – Uh…hello? You are, not like most
undead are you?**
**Lierrin – I am like every other risen in Orr.
When the dragon died, our will were returned to us. I have no memory of my
former life, but I have no desire to harm the living. But…you’re not living,
are you?**
**Matithias – Smell it on me, can you?**
**Lierrin - …Something like that. You are undead,
but you are not of the dragon. What are you doing in Orr?**
**Matithias – Perhaps you can help me. I’m
looking for the dragon.**
**Lierrin – You’ve found it.**
**Lierrin gestures to the bones around them.
Matithias looks around the large cave and sees nothing but bones.**
**Matithias – Excellent.**
**He pulls out rusttooth. Lierrin watches
impassively. Matithias runs his hands over a larger skull embeddid in the
ground.**
**Matithias - Let’s get started**
**He begins to saw into the bones**

**We Are one**

**Viseron
flutters his eyes open, his head spinning.**
**Viseron
– Wh…Who is that?**
**Primordus
– Arise. It is your time.**
**Viseron feels no pain, yet her remembers all
that occurred**
**Viseron
– Who’s there? Where am I?**
**Primordus
– You are in my domain. You are in my mind. You are my mind. I am your mind. I
am you. You are me. We are one.**
**Viseron looks around, wondering where the
voice is coming from.**
**Primordus
– There is no need to wonder, you are in my mind. My mind. Our mind. I summon
you. Finish the duty you were born to do.**
**Viseron
– Duty? Who is this? Who commands the King?**
**Primordus
– I am your God. I am you. I am Primordus.**
**Viseron
– (laughs) Primordus? PRIMORDUS? Is this a prank? My dead loser of a father
told me about you to scare me at night.**
**Primordus
– You should be right to be scared of me. I and your God. I am you. You are me.
We are ONE.**
**Viseron
– I don’t know what game this is, but I’ll follow along.**
**Primordus
– (note: Missed first part) vessel. Your mother called me. I am you. You are
me. We are one.**
**Viseron
– My mother? My mother hated the stories about you and the other Elder Dragons.**
**Primordus
– Your mother is not who you think she is.**
**Viseron is confused, and begins to wonder if
this is all really happening.**
**Viseron
– P-Prove your power…**
**Viseron whimpers and a sensation of dread
casts over him.**
**Primordus
– As you see fit.**
**Noipros
– The one…true…king.**
**Howl –
All…hail.**
**Viseron
– You… How did you?**
**Noipros
– The true…leader…**
**Howl –
Hail to the king.**
**Primordus
– Look at them. Feel the rage flow through you.**
**Noipros
– Pretender King**
**Howl –
What king are you?**
**Noipros
– Foolish mistake….**
**Howl –
Maybe… I’ll be king instead.**
**Viseron
– Begone!**
**Noipros
– Product of incest…**
**Viseron
– Stop this madness! I-Incest?**
**Noipros & Howl laugh**
**Viseron
– STOP THIS PRANK! I DEMAND IT!**
**Noipros laughs deepers**
**Noipros
– We are the true kings…**
**Primordus
– You can stop it. Do it. Kill them**
**Howl –
Can’t do it. He’s scared.**
**Viseron
– W-What… What is this.**
**Howl – (Laughs)
He’s a coward… Puny welp.**
**Noipros
– We will rule.**
**Primordus
– Are you a coward? Do this first test.**
**Noipros
– We will be king of the ashes… We…**
**Howl –
Will…**
**Primordus
– Gain their power. Gain my power. I gain your power. I gain their power. I am
your power. I am all power.**
**Noipros
– Rule.**
**Howl –
We are one.**
**Noipros
– We are one.**
**Howl –
Two souls, one soul.**
**Noipros
– Two minds, one mind.**
**Viseron lunges forward in a blurred frenzy,
attacking the two that taunted him for so long in his life.**
**Viseron
– STOP THIS!**
**Noipros laughs**
**Viseron
– STOP! STOP! STOP!**
**Viseron cries**
**Viseron
– Go…Go**
**Howl flickers in the smoke**
**Howl –
Fool.**
**Noipros
– Do you not see?**
**Primordus
– Do it. Do it. Gain their power. Gain it. Feel it. Feed off it.**
**Noipros
– We are one soul.**
**Howl –
You are none.**
**Viseron
– I… I am the King.**
**Noipros
– Noipros…**
**Howl –
Howl…**
**Viseron
– I am your King. I command you…. Begone!**
**Howl –
True kings.**
**Noipros
– We will be the only ones left…**
**Viseron
– You will never survive. You will never endure! I say again, as your King,
BEGONE!**
**Howl smirks**
**Noipros
– Begone…???**
**Noipros burns alive**
**Noipros
– Hahahahahahahahah!!!!!!!**
**Primordus
– You did it. You are power. You have power. I have power. We have power. You
are me. I am you. We are one.**
**Rhaenara
– Viseron? Viseron. Wake up. Viseron!**
**Viseron
opens his eyes, to the vision of his Aunt.**
**Viseron
– Aunt Rhaenara? Wh-What’s going…**
**Rhaenara
- Viseron, wake up. Viseron, my son, it's time for you to rule the kingdom.**

**Reunion**

**Howl sits on
his throne, digging his claws into the arm of the chair, being generally moody.**
**Korg enters the room, smiles and nods.**
**Howl flusters slightly, turning red under his
fur.**
**Korg – How are you feeling?**
**Howl – Um. Fine.**
**Korg – Just fine?**
**Howl – Better…now.**
**Korg chuckles.**
**Howl’s mouth twitches a little.**
**Korg – Anything you’d like to discuss with me?**
**Howl – Have you heard from the Norn or Vialeth?**
**Korg – Not yet, though I did speak with the
norn before he left.**
**Howl – Did you?**
**Korg – Yes.**
**Howl – What of?**
**Korg – Strategic and tactical conversation
about the potential war to come.**
**Howl – There will be no war.**
**Korg – Hopefully not, no, but we should prepare
anyway, dear.**
**Howl – There will be me** ***beheading*** **Noipros, and that will be fucking end to
it (growl)**
**Korg – Shhh. Calm down. You will see him die,
be assured. Perhaps we should discuss lighter topics.**
**Howl – I’ll have him stuffed…he can keep my Moa
company- Oh…lighter topics…fine. Yes.**
**Korg – I have been considering the proposed
expedition. With your permission, I plan to recruit the most loyal soldiers and
craftsman for the task.**
**Howl – Yes. The sooner the better. Do this.**
**Korg – It will be done. And…may I say?**
**Howl – Please.**
**Korg smiles and gently clacks a horn against
Howl’s.**
**Korg – You look beautiful as always.**
**Howl flushes, his ears turn down in
embarrassment. He mutters something unintelligible in response.**
**Korg frowns**
**Korg – Something wrong? I meant no offence by
it.**
**Howl – No! No…**
**Korg blinks**
**Howl – I…thank…thank you…Korg.**
**Howl raises his paw and places it atop Korg’s
on the chair next to him.**
**Korg tilts his head**
**Korg – For what, Howl?**
**Howl – For the compliment. (mutters)
Well…g-guess you just…leave me speechless.**
**Korg – That’s my line.**
**Howl leans over and places his head on Korg’s
shoulder**
**Korg takes a paw and gently strokes Howl’s
mane**
**Korg – You *are*alright, aren’t you, love?**
**Noipros grunts and wrestles**
**Howl – Yes…I am with you…so…so I am
well…my...my…love.**
**Noipros looks at the guard intentively**
**Korg leans back in his chair slightly and
giggles at Howl**
**Little Bub’s armor clanks in the distance.
Large grumbles and disputes carry on from outside**
**Noipros – Let go of me now!**
**Noipros nods at his captor**
**Korg – You’re adorable. Almost like you…the
great, strong. Duke of the Arbor has never done this before.**
**Little Bub – Fat chance! I’ll take no time in
gutting you right here.**
**Noipros looks at the guard**
**Howl – No. I…haven’t. I…**
**Korg blinks in surprise. And then looks up at
Noipros and snarls.**
**Little Bub pushes Noipros towards Korg, and
Howl**
**Korg lunges up and towards Noipros, drawing
his sword**
**Howl – Y-You…you can see him?**
**Korg – You!**
**Howl – YOU CAN SEE HIM, TOO, KORG, RIGHT?**
**Korg – Wh-What? Of course I can see him.**
**Little Bub – I found this one outside of the
gates. I knew you’d just love to see him.**
**Noipros coughs softly**
**Howl – LOVE TO SEE HIM? OH YES! OH! YES!**
**Noipros – The…chaos…**
**Little Bub grins under his mask. He gives a
slight nod to Noipros before returning to his post**
**Howl – SEE HIM. CUT HIM… Claw him to bits.
That’s what we Charr do, isn’t it, Noipros?**
**Noipros acknowledges the nod.**
**Howl draws his blade**
**Noipros – Howl…**
**Howl – YOU!**
**Howl shakes all over like a leaf**
**Noipros – I’ve…lost…everything…**
**Korg – Not everything. Not yet.**
**Howl – YOU WILL BE LUCKY TO HAVE A HEAD LEFT
AFTER THIS, YOU TRAITOR!**
**Noipros – Howl… the Mordrem… Don’t ignore them…**
**Howl – SILENCE.**
**Little Bub grabs his arm and lifts him to his
feet**
**Little Bub – Would you like me to throw this
muck in the slammer?**
**Korg snarls at Noipros. He then turns to
Little Bub**
**Howl – No.**
**Korg – No.**
**Howl – No no no.**
**Korg – Leave, guard.**
**Howl – He won’t be staying long.**
**Little Bub – Wouldn’t it be more fitting to
kill him in front of everyone.**
**Howl growls, low and long**
**Korg – You kill Lords in front of everyone. You
kill scum in front of no one.**
**Howl – Wouldn’t that be nice, Noipros? The whole
world thinking you’re just Mesmering yourself away. Hidden in the world,
somewhere…but you’re really rotting away underneath my House. Fodder for the
grass. Wouldn’t that…be…nice.**
**Noipros – Such is the game…**
**Howl – Didn’t you get my message? The game ended.**
**Korg – I mean, to be fair, this is almost
certainly not even Noipros.**
**Noipros – I know…friend…**
**Howl – Friend? You come here, to me…after all
these words, and you speak the word…`friend’’ to me?**
**Noipros – The sword…that’s Tyberious’s sword
isn’t?**
**Howl’s lip twitches**
**Howl – Yes it is.**
**Noipros – Fitting…**
**Howl – (sneers) Oh? How so?**
**Korg – Guard. Leave.**
**Little Bub – Use him as an example.**
**Korg – Your objection to us killing this
traitor has been noted. Leave. Now.**
**Little Bub – Very well.**
**Korg closes the door**
**Noipros – That blade… My father died by that
blade…**
**Howl – Oh, not just yours, Noipros. Did you
ever wonder how he died?**
**Noipros – I don’t care how he died… I only care
who did it…**
**Howl grins, showing all his fangs**
**Howl – He dragged me out on a hunting trip… All
the way talking to me about the way of the warrior. How I would grow strong
with a blade, like a big…tough…muscley charr…just like him…all the while** ***mocking*me… He never…ever approved of my…heh… my** ***ways*my…magic…and he kept going on…and on…and
on…and then…**
**Noipros – (chuckles) Are you gonna cry?**
**Korg punches Noipros in the kidney**
**Noipros coughs roughly**
**Howl – He took out this blade and handed it to
me…said…what was it…something about how I would** ***someday*, you know…*eventually* make
him proud. Like I wasn’t good enough. LIKE I WASN’T PERFECT THE WAY I WAS.**
**Noipros – I always accepted you…**
**Howl – So…what I did…is… (chuckles)**
**Noipros falls, feeling weak**
**Howl – I took out my pistol. He never let me
have bullets in it…but I didn’t need them…**
**Howl waves a paw, and a phantasm of Howl
appears next to him, holding two pistols, and grins**
**Howl – Sometimes…when you’re hunting…accidents
happen.**
**Noipros – You’ve always had double intentions…**
**Howl - Shut up, you traitor. SHUP UP. ACCIDENTS
HAPPEN, AND MAGIC ALWAYS PREVAILS.**
**Korg grabs Noipros roughly, covering his
mouth**
**Howl – Let him go, Korg. Stand back.**
**Korg growls but releases Noipros.**
**Noipros smirks**
**Howl – Noipros… Magic… Always…**
**Noipros – Always…**
**Howl flicks out a paw, and cast signet of
humility**
**Howl – Prevails.**
**Noipros clutches his head**
**Noipros – Aaaaahhh!!! Ahhhh! Squa….**
**Noipros begins to grow feathers…**
**Little Bub, upon hearing the squawk busts
through the door unleashing a bellowing roar, smashing the door from its hinges**
**Noipros – Ann…**
**Howl – WHAT IN THE WORLD?!**
**Howl’s surprised**
**Noipros – SQUAWK!**
**Little Bub picks up Korg and throws him into
Howl, picking Noipros up and fleeing as fast as possible.**
**Howl – NO! NO!!!**
**Howl screams**
**Howl – NO!!!!!!!!!!**
**Little Bub is screaming at Noipros.**
**Little Bub – That almost got you killed, you
fool! Thank Dwayna I was around!**
**Noipros – I had to know…**
**Howl sinks his blade into a pillar next to
him.**
**Korg – He will die another day.**
**Howl – I had him.**
**Korg – This is the third time.**
**Howl – I had him…**
**Korg places his paws on Howl’s shoulders**
**Korg – Next time…just let me kill him…and his
head will be my gift to you, love.**
**Howl – Get the men assembled. Get them moving.**
**Korg – It will be done. Tomorrow.**
**Howl – I want that establishment built.**
**Korg – They will be.**
**Howl – I am so…tired…of this. The Game really
is over…**
**Korg – No… The game isn’t until one person
wins…or all players give up.**
**Howl – Fine. The Game’s not over.**
**Howl turns to look at Korg, his eye hard**
**Howl – But I will be the one to end it.**
**Korg – We.**
**Howl – W-**
**Howl sighs**
**Howl – We. Sorry.**
**Korg chuckles**
**Korg – No offense was caused**
**Korg gives a lick on the cheek.**
**Howl sighs again, deflating...frowning.**
**Howl – Take me to bed, Korg… Take me away.**
**Korg – I will shelter you in my arms, my love.
Come…let us retire.**
**Korg offers a paw and Howl takes it**

**Trickery**

**Noipros
struggles heavily with the transformation. In a desperate attempt, he casts
signet of humility on himself, and takes a deep breath and kneels**
**Noipros
– I had to know what his army looks like…**
**Aneirahh begins to transform, a black mist
form upon his body and begins to reveal someone. Not a frog…but a human.**
**Noipros
– Not very impressive…**
**Noipros coughs**
**Noipros
– I’m glad you were there.**
**Aneirahh
– You could have gotten yourself killed.**
**Noipros
brushes himself off**
**Noipros
– Yes…tooo risky… But I know where he lives now…**
**Aneirahh rests his hand upon his shoulder.**
**Aneirahh
– But I’m glad you’re okay, friend.**
**Noipros
– And I know what he’s preparing… The Norn wasn’t here.. Aneirahh, help me up.**
**Aneirahh
– I’m surprised they didn’t suspect me as the guard to be quite honest.
That…Korg seems a stern critter.**
**Aneirahh helps Noipros to his feet and pushes
him slightly, but catches him.**
**Noipros
– Thank you…**
**Aneirahh
– Hehe, got ye mate.**
**Noipros
– Now…I suppose we have business to conduct? The chemical bomb trick, very
impressive my little Asuran friend.**
**Aneirahh
– Well, that’s me, I guess. The master of bodily illusions and such.**
**Noipros
– I wouldn’t abuse that power if I were you.**
**Aneirahh
– Shame I’m a terrible swordsman.**
**Noipros
– Howl might see through it next time. WE have to be more careful..**
**Aneirahh
– I better keep it low key, but I know what I’m doing. Something smaller it
shall have to be.**
**Noipros
– Howl…he looks flustered…**
**Aneirahh begins to shrink, and turn into a
bird. His wings flap as he turns to Noipros and land upon his shoulder. Noipros
pets the bird slightly.**
**Noipros
– To the Dragonbrand, we go.**

**The Time Before**

**Draugr runs
his fingers through Tora’s name, holding him tightly.**
**Tora held Draugr’s left hand with his right,
and rested his left paw upon Draugr’s chest, stroking it a little. His tail
played around Draugr’s right arm…**
**Draugr traces a particular pattern in Tora’s
fur, like a code.**
**Tora moved his tail in response, making a
similar, coordinated pattern.**
**Draugr
– Good. You’re sure?**
**Tora swished his tail a bit more, left and
right and…ended with a rapid flick, stiffening up a bit…**
**Draugr’s eyes glow black and he turns his
face into Tora’s forehead, whispering a phrase that echoes with power, the air
around them darkens and thickens, sealing them from prying eyes.**
**Draugr
– Do you want to go ahead and ask…or do you want me to try and explain first?**
**Tora –
Could you explain?**
**Tora tucked himself toward Draugr, letting a
soft murr vibrate off his body…**
**Draugr
– Hmm…where to begin…first of all, walls have ears…listeners everywhere, some
for the Duke…others not, I don’t need them listening in any more than
necessary… I’m sure the Duke heard everything we said to each other in his
castle…which was why I said it there. As far as he knows, I’m sending you away
to be safe…which is all he needs to know.**
**Draugr hums at Tora’s purr and holds him
tightly pressing a soft kiss into his mane when he finishes speaking.**
**Tora mumbles `Spirits…’ and shook his head.**
**Tora –
I’ve never dealed with all this…political nonsense… You were always one for
that…**
**Draugr
– Hmph, you underestimate yourself, but no matter… (hesitates) I want you safe
from all this…but…you do not seem inclines to leave me anytime soon…**
**Tora –
I can’t knowing your safety can’t be guaranteed…**
**Draugr
– If that’s the case…then I have something I’d like you to do…**
**Tora stroked Draugr’s arm, tracing down from
his shoulder to the palm of his hand.**
**Tora –
That is…?**
**Draugr
– The Duke is not known for his forces…and if this comes to a fight, he’d need
them…or I will if things go…poorly. I want you to gather the old gang together,
call in favors, build up our arsenal of magical tricks and trinkets again.**
**Tora held onto Draugr’s left arm, thinking
aloud ``When was the last time I…?’’ and sighed**
**Tora -
I can do that.**
**Draugr shivers at Tora’s touch unconsciously**
**Draugr
– I do not expect the Duke to always be the best choice…and if another
opportunity presents itself…I’d like to have some firepower backing me up.**
**Tora –
Right, right… But I wished that…you know…we wouldn’t get back into this.**
**Draugr
– (sighs) Tora, love, we’ve been round and round on this…**
**Tora rubbed his thumbclaw on Draugr’s
wristscars.**
**Tora –
I know, dear, but…well, I’m a bit tired is all.**
**Draugr
– So am I love, and these next few months may only bring us hardship…but I will
make you a promise…**
**Tora rested his head upon Draugr’s shoulder,
waiting for the promise…**
**Tora –
Mm?**
**Draugr
– If and when this is over…if we’re both still alive and ourselves…then we will
retire…forever, maybe adopt some runts of our own to do dirty work, how does
that sound, hm?**
**Draugr presses his lips to Tora’s forehead
gently.**
**Tora learned into Draugr’s lips**
**Tora –
Sounds wonderful… I’ve always wanted a little cub running around the house, you
know? It would make the place more…lively…**
**Tora closed his eyes and pushed closer to
Draugr, his tail starting to wrap around Draugr’s leg…**
**Draugr closes his eyes and breaths deeply,
inhaling Tora’s scent, but they snap open and his hand grab’s Tora’s tail…**
**Draugr
– That tickles love.**
**Tora giggled, unwrapping his tail from Draugr
while passionately kissing Draugr, leaning into him…**
**Draugr laughs and returns the kiss, releasing
Tora’s tail as he shifts Tora underneath him.**

**It  Begins Here**

**Noipros throws
his father’s sword and armor into the pyre**
**Aneirahh – It’s been a long time, friend.**
**Noipros – Aneirahh?! (hugs) I haven’t seen you
since school…was it?**
**Aneirahh – I’m glad you remember me! I heard
the news, I’m…so sorry. Yes, yes! Those were the days.**
**Noipros – My father…dead. (chuckles)**
**Aneirahh – I can’t believe it, either.**
**Noipros – He wasn’t the best man I know but…he
was my only father…**
**Aneirahh – He treat me with respect, and
dignity. Serving under your family, I felt more like friend than a servant.**
**Noipros – You remember, haha, when he gave you
the scholarship to study at my school? Imagine that…a servant alongside a
nobleman…**
**Aneirahh – Haha! Yes, I remember when he found
me teaching you how to read and write. I thought he’d be furious… But no. He,
was quite encouraging of that fact.**
**Noipros – And all of that taken away…by Howl
and his family…**
**Aneirahh – I heard.**
**Noipros voice slightly breaks**
**Noipros – We…use to play games by the lake… A
human and a charr… Looks I can only trust my kind, huh?**
**Noipros wipes a single tear from his cheek**
**Aneirahh – I remember watching from the window
some days. Simpler times. I guess so.**
**Noipros – Aneirahh, I…won’t be staying here
much longer.**
**Aneirahh – Where will you go?**
**Noipros – House Noipros won’t survive if I stay
in Divinity’s Reach. I..have been studying a possible place I could go.**
**Aneirahh – Yes…?**
**Noipros – If I can prove myself that is… Rata
Sum.**
**Aneirahh – Interesting. Any particular reason,
or just visiting?**
**Noipros looks at the flames**
**Noipros – A reason? Howl.**
**Aneirahh – I see.**
**Noipros – I could use a man of your caliber. I
won’t let this go unpunished.**
**Aneirahh – Say no more. It’s the least I could
do for his hospitality. Justice must be served.**
**Noipros – Yes. Howl want to play. Let’s play.**
**Aneirahh – Indeed. I feel I have to share
something with you. It’s imperative I show you.**
**Noipros – Can you show me here? In front of all
these…mourners?**
**Aneirahh – Of course, not now. But do you
remember that particular time, I turned myself into a cat somehow? Well…I’ve focused
that ability. I believe I could be one some use. A pawn if you will.**
**Noipros – (whispers) You…did it?**
**Aneirahh leans over, and nods assertively.**
**Noipros looks into the flames, instead of
frowning and crying, Noipros’ expression changes to something sinister.**
**Noipros – To Rate Sum, we go.**
**Aneirahh – Yes, let’s go. I will show you on
the way.**
**Noipros – (laughs) You were not kidding**

**Across Orr**

**Matithias
returns from the graveyard on the other side of Orr, dragging a large dufflebag
behind him.**
**Matithias
- It was. This camp is looking better already.**
**Lierrin
- I'd done my best, sir!**
**Matithias
- I can see that. Do one more thing for me. Call the men forward, I'd like to
speak to them.**
**Lierrin
- (salutes) Yes, sir! SOLDIERS! Form up! Sir Matithias wants to speak to you!**
**Matithias
- Soldiers! I know this hasn't been an easy journey.**
**I know
many of you are confused and unsure of what going's on. I take full
responsibility for that, and I'm going to clear the air.**
**You are
here because you are Tyria's last line of defense. You are here because you
loyal few have dedicated yourselves to your country without question and that
is a noble feat you should be proud of. But the world is rapidly changing.
 And as such, we are forced to change it. I know you are tired, I know it
seems like I'm not telling you everything. For that, I apologize. But you are
all soldiers that I've trained with, fought with, and bleed with. That is a
bond that we will forever share. For those of you who are still unsure of where
you stand... Well, I get it. If any of you doubt my leadership, if any of you
are don't think you can keep going, I'll understand if you with to leave. But
for those of you who wish to stay, I can promise you one thing. I can promise
you that everything we do from this point forward, will be for the good of
Tyria, and that each step we take, we will take together. Not just as a squad,
but as a people! Now, I ask you... Who will join me?!**
**Soldier:
I will be honored to join you.**
**Matithias
- Excellent. Now then, I've got a special project I'm working on. I'll be quite
busy with that. But as a reward for your unquestioned loyalty, tonight you will
feast like kings! That is all for now, we will form up first thing tomorrow.
DISMISSED! Lierrin?  A word?**
**Lierrin
- Of course, sir!**
**Matithias
- We will celebrate tonight, because tomorrow, we prepare for battle.**
**Lierrin
- For battle? Against...the Risen? Against who?**
**Matithias
- Against the man who stole the world.**
**Lierrin blinks**

             The
Letter and the Priory

**Korg - News from
the capital, dear.**
**Howl -
Oh?**
**Korg -
It turns out Noipros has stepped down from the crown. Rhaenara, I believe,
should still be serving as Queen regent, but Noiprosis is in an...uncertain
position.**
**Howl
jumps**
**Howl -
He what?**
**Korg -
He's stepped down. He's no longer the king regent.**
**Howl -
What is his plan? What is his game?!**
**Korg -
I wonder if he even knows what he wants. Seems more like another person behind
him pulling the strings, the way he bounces between thing to thing.**
**Howl -
Or... Do you suppose...there's...hmm... There might be...yes... there might be
some larger goal, that we can't see.**
**Korg -
Perhaps. But his short stint as king seems...odd either way.**
**Howl -
We need to find out what he did in the Capital while he was king. So we can find
out what he plans, and see that his head is removed before he accomplished
it.**
**Korg -
Besides assassinate half the nobles in Divinity's Reach in a fire?  I
guess we shall have to hear from Vialeth.**
**Howl -
No word yet?**
**Korg -
Not in my knowledge. Perhaps a moa is on the way.**
**Howl -
Let's hope.**
**Korg -
Until then, I plan to begin interviews today...anything you'd like me to ask
them in particular?**
**Howl -
No. I trust your judgement.**
**Korg -
(smiles) Thank you, love. I shall do my best to live up to you.**
**Howl's lips twitch up in a small smile. His
eyes soften slightly.**
**Korg -
How long do you wish to keep Vialeth in Divinity's Reach?**
**Howl -
(smiles) Let's see what she does... See where her... loyalties lie.**
**Korg -
Yes, of course. A good thought.**
**Howl -
Do you disagree?**
**Korg -
No. (to himself) Maybe I could do it, then.**
**Howl -
Do what?**
**Korg -
Retrieval mission. Something of great value for our future plans.**
**Howl tilts his head and frowns.**
**Howl -
Where?**
**Korg -
The private storage of the Durmand Priory.**
**Howl raises his eyebrows.**
**Howl -
Very well... D...Don't...get caught.**
**Korg gives Howl a kiss on the cheek**
**Korg -
Do not worry, my love... I can get in and out no problem... I have
friends...and...skills no living soul knows of.**
**Howl turns and pulls Korg into a hug.**
**Howl -
You sure do, love.**
**Korg -
Well...one day, perhaps I'll have to show you, too...**
**Howl hugs Korg tighter.**
**Korg -
Don't worry for me...keep yourself safe...I...I will leave it at nightfall. I
hope to be back by down...but we will see.**
**Howl -
Do you have to leave *at* nightfall.**
**Korg -
It is the best time...but until then...we have all the time we want...and a
nice sunset to watch together.**
**Howl -
There's a nice view of the sunset...from my...from *our* bedding chamber, you
know...**
**Korg -
I hear its the best.**
**Howl smiles...and a servant enters the room.
Korg traces a paw along the curve of Howl's horns. Howl's eyes flick to the
servant. The servant flinches under his gaze.**
**Servant
- A raven, your Grace.**
**Korg closes his eyes with a small sigh, and
moves out of the way. Howl holds out a paw. The servant brings it to Howl, and
turns to leave, glaring at him as he leaves, and reads the letter. He smiles
softly, and holds the scroll out to Korg,**
**Howl -
From Vialeth.**
**Korg takes it, with his eyebrows raised as he
does so.**
**Korg -
Well...I suppose the time for those loyalties to be proven is here.**
**Howl -
``I am going to do something that might be very stupid.'' Yes, this will be
very interesting...**
**Howl makes a finger-pyramid with is paws.**
**Howl -
Good girl, Vialeth...very good.**
**Korg -
We'll see...**
**Howl -
Yes. I think it's time to get out of these clothes and...slip into something
more comfortable.**
**Korg -
Oh? I didn't know I was even more comfortable than those...**
**Korg traces a claw along Howl's exposed
chest.**
**Howl takes Korg by the paw and leads him out
of the room.**
**Howl -
Much more.**

**Back at Rata Sum**

**Noipros
breathes in a sigh of relief.**
**Noipros
- I feel...at home. Finally.**
**Inquest
Researcher - Duke? You return?! What are you doing here? I thought you were king?**
**Noipros
- My position as king was merely...a waste of time. How goes the research? Kudu
taking the last chaos crystal must have affected us, no?**
**Inquest
Researcher - I'm afraid so. Kudu's rebellion has cost us and at the same time,
given us new assets. The Crucible of Eternity is under our control.**
**Noipros
- And the surrounding area? Mt. Maelstrom?**
**Inquest
Researcher - We will soon spread our scientists all over the land. The Mount
will be your soon.**
**Noipros
- Good. Kudu's rebellion might have given us something after all.**
**Inquest
Researcher - There is one more thing, my duke...**
**Noipros
- Oh?**
**Inquest
Researcher - Ley line energies have surged in the Maguuma Jungle. Mordrenach
has begun his assault on the Wall.**
**Noipros
- Oh....then it begins.**
**Inquest
Researcher - We have also discovered the remains of Keino's airship. No sign of
him, my duke.**
**Noipros
- He's certainly dead. It doesn't matter.**
**Inquest
Researcher - My duke... We can configure your greatsword to...speak to him.**
**Noipros
- To...**
**Inquest
Researcher - The Crystal Dragon. Ah. Well, let's get this over with.**
**The researcher fiddles with the Gem, causing
it to shine brighter.**
**Noipros clutches his head and enters a
strange dream...**
**Noipros
- I...My Champion... Where...are you...**
**Noipros
sees a large storm of purple approach him, in the form of Kralkatorik.**
**Kralkatorik
- Palawa Joko approaches... Where is the egg?**
**Noipros
cowers in fear.**
**Noipros
- Give me time, I must defeat Mordremoth!**
**Kralkatorik
- You have wasted mine. This petty game you play. Enough. You will travel to
the Crystal Desert. You will stave off the Liches's Armies. And if you survive,
you will bring me the egg.**
**Noipros
- Yes...but...what do I get in return?**
**Kralkatorik
- You get to continue existing, human.**
**Noipros shudders profusely. He hears a faint
voice call out to him.**
**Inquest
Researcher - My duke?**
**Noipros awakens**
**Noipros
- Anything...else to report...?**
**He says looking tired**
**Inquest
Researcher - There is one thing. A new Duchess rises in the Shiverpeak
Mountains. She goes by the name of Taiga. I think you should travel there. Meet
with her. Perhaps she may help us.**
**Noipros
- I think...I will...**

**The Duke and the Duchess**

**Melissa Taiga
sits and sighs, looking down at her parents picture.**
**Melissa
- Guess it's time to get ready for tonight's part. Is the food ready?**
**Local -
Yes, Lady Taiga.**
**Melissa
- Good, now I am going to gather my people. Hope they take the news my parents
died well, they all looked up to them. Get our soldiers gathered and
citizens... I have a speech to prepare before the party.**
**Local -
Yes, My Lady. EVERYONE, GATHER HERE, LADY MELISSA HAS A FEW WORDS!!!!**
**Melissa
- My people!!! I know you been asking when my parents are due home from
fighting Jormag!!! It is...it is hard for me to tell you all this, but... But
they're no longer with us...the dragon Jormag slain them both, along with some
of our finest men and women. But don't cry or feel sad for they were people who
we all looked up to and will always have a part of them, inside of us.. I,
their daughter will rule and take their place as Duchess of Hoelbrak... AND
TOGETHER!!! WE WILL KILL JORMAG AND RESTORE PEACE TO SHIVERSPEAKS!!!**
**The crowd cheers**
**Melissa
- Now...my people, we will feast like royalty and party in Duchess Elizebeth
and Duke Samuel's name... TO MY PARENTS!!!!**
**She raises a her mug to toast to them,
smiling at her people, trying to look happy for them.**
**Noipros observes the crowd, and spots one
Norn woman. He whispers to himself `She might be the one.'**
**Noipros
- Excuse me? Where is the Duchess Taiga?**
**Melissa
- That would be me...who is asking?**
**Noipros
- Oh! I apologies my lady. The Duke of Rata Sum, Jonathan Noipros.**
**Melissa
- Duke Noipros? Well, it is a pleasure to meet you.**
**Noipros
- The pleasure is all mine. My lady, may we speak in private?**
**Melissa
- Sure.**
**Noipros
- Don't worry about your guests. They will be entertained accordingly. I've
brought in a lovely band for you. Shall we?**
**Melissa
- So...what do you want to discuss?**
**He signals the band to begin playing.**
**Noipros
- My lady, I must be blunt and quick.**
**Melissa
- About?**
**Noipros
- The jungle dragon rises in the west. Jormag is the least of your concerns. He
will soon consume everything in his path.**
**Melissa
- I have heard from my people whom has traveled there.**
**Noipros
- I need your help. Anything you can provide to defeat him.**
**Melissa
- Mordremoth is more terrible I heard than Jormag? But...what about my promise
to kill Jormag to my people?**
**Noipros
- Promise? You'll have to break many of those as a Duchess.**
**Noipros taps his shoulder**
**Noipros
- I know.**
**Melissa
- Know what?**
**Noipros
- Promises must be broken to be a good duke. You can't please everyone.**
**Melissa
- I guess your right. Though I am new to ruling, why come to me of all people?**
**Noipros
- Well, I won't take none of your time. Consider my suggestion.**
**He bows**
**Melissa
- No need to consider... I see this as a opportunity. If I kill Mordremoth
first, it will shake Jormag to his core and then I can take him on.**
**Noipros
- Perfect. I'll take my leave. Enjoy the feast.**
**Melissa
- No need, you may stay and help yourself to the food. Well, guess I'll see you
later on.**

**The Queen**

**Rhaenara looks
annoyed, but continues her speech.**
**Rhaenara
- I understand you are all confused, but it is time to rejoice! The crown is
back in the hands of a true Targaryen!**
**Minister
- What of King Auron?**
**She looks wearily at the minster.**
**Rhaenara
- The King has awoken from his sickness, last night. He is still in no state to
ru-be present, and as such, I will continue to rule in his stead.**
**She looks around at the nobility, anxious of
their questions, trying to block out their yelling. She spots a familiar face
from behind a column, and her eyes light up.**
**Rhaenara
- I will allow Minister Tyrell to address further questions, I must attend to
His Grace.**
**Rhaenara
- (whispers) You must not be seen, follow me quietly.**
**Vialeth nods, as Rhaenara tries to keep her
composure among all her emotions.**
**Rhaenara
- Vialeth...I... What are you doing here?**
**Vialeth finds it hard to speak**
**Vialeth
- It's bee so long, I...**
**Rhaenara
- You could be killed.**
**Rhaenara searches Vialeth's eyes, feeling old
memories washing over her.**
**Vialeth
- I know. I'm taking a risk right now. But it was important that I find you!
There's something I need to tell you, something important.**
**Rhaenara
- That you find me? Are you crazy? You...**
**Vialeth
- And I... I wanted to see you, I admit.**
**Rhaenara
- See me? But, after all that's happened... Are you sure?**
**Vialeth
- It's been so long, and when I heard you were back in the capital, I... I
missed you, Rhaenara.**
**Rhaenara
- I... I've missed you as well, my beautiful flower. Listen... What happened
with my brother...**
**Vialeth
- I... At this time, it seemed like something I had to do.**
**Rhaenara
- I know. I harbor no ill will.**
**Vialeth
- I will understand if you did, but it seemed like...I don't know. I just
wanted to... (sigh) But I'm not here for that. I need to tell you something,
about your...about the King.**
**Rhaenara
- King... Oh! Viseron.**
**Vialeth
- Duke Howl didn't hurt him. I can't say how, but you have trust me, I know he
didn't. And, although I have little evidence to give you, I think I know who
did.**
**Rhaenara tried not to let her rage and her
confusion spill over, and chuckles.**
**Rhaenara
- And who... Who would hurt him?**
**Vialeth
- The person...who had the most to gain. Your...husband.**
**Rhaenara recoils**
**Rhaenara
- Husband...**
**She rolls the word around her mouth**
**Rhaenara
- Hus...band... Vialeth. Why are you *really*here?**
**Vialeth
- I can't tell you everything. I...I won't. I'm here on someone else's account,
someone who I think has Tyria's best interests at heart. Someone who wants you
to know the truth about what happened to Viseron.**
**Rhaenara
- Tyria's interest are my interests. And my interests do not concern that
because I now know what happened to my s... My nephew. Tell me, Vialeth. Who
are you here representing?**
**Vialeth
- I can't tell you who it is. But if you like, you could give them...a message,
from me. Maybe they could be an ally.**
**Rhaenara
- An ally. All Houses of Tyria are allies to House Targaryen.**
**Vialeth
- But we both know that's not how the dukes and duchesses see it.**
**Rhaenara
- Then for those that don't see it that way, I can arrange to have them not see
anything else, either. They are loyal to the Crown, or they are dead.**
**Vialeth
- Like you did at the wedding?**
**Rhaenara pauses, staring right into Vialeth's
eyes. Vialeth can't hide that she's a little disturbed by that. Rhaenara's
voice softens a little, reminded by who she's talking to.**
**Rhaenara
- Vialeth... You know how this works. You play the game of thrones, our you
die. And I will win.**
**Vialeth
- And I want you to win! You know I do. But you don't have to do this alone. If
there are others who share your interests...who can support you...**
**Rhaenara
- We made a promise, long ago, under the trees outside the palace, do you
remember that night? It was beautiful. We should never keep a secret from each
other. Please don't keep this secret from me, now, of all times.**
**Vialeth
- I would never keep a secret from you, you know that. Especially not an
important one. But I want to do the right thing...this time. And I think the
only thing that would happen if I told you now...is more this. More mistrust.
More suffering. More deaths.**
**Rhaenara
- I think it would be quite the opposite, my love, but... I have no choice but
to trust you. I know you keep my interests at heart and if you think this is
what I need then... Please just...I need you to convince me...**
**Vialeth
- Convince you?**
**Rhaenara leans in, going to kiss Vialeth, but
recoils.**
**Rhaenara
- I... No. If you say so, then I will trust you.**
**Vialeth
- Please! I'll...I'll make things right. I have to! For what I've done...and
for you.**
**Rhaenara
- For us.**
**Rhaenara smiles wearily at Vialeth. Vialeth
smiles back at her, her face, for once...hopeful. Rhaenara's face flashes a
look of concern, remembering.**
**Rhaenara
- Vialeth?  You must leave, though. You'll be caught, we've been here too
long. Ignore the palace, there are too many guards protecting the King.**
**Vialeth
- You're right, Rhaenara. I knew I could trust you to do the right thing, I
never should have doubted you. Thank you. My queen.**

**The Crystal Desert**

**Noipros
studies his surroundings, observing the quiet town, it's dark, no one will
notice him? He remembers his role in this war. He solemnly sighs.**
**Noipros - The gate...**
**He starts hearing voices in the head. ``You
ruined the game... Husband??? Nooooo....**
**Howl -
Traitor...**
**Noipros
- No.... Nooo.... NO!!! GET OUT OF MY HEAD, HOWL!!!!**
**He smacks his head. He murders the two
guards, opens the gate, to the Crystal Desert.**

**The Return of King Viseron**

**Rhaenara flips open the book,**
interested.

**Vialeth - My lady... You**
summoned me?

**Rhaenara turns around at the**
sound of the most angelic voice there is. She bows to Vialeth

**Rhaenara - My Vialeth, thank**
you for coming back.

**Vialeth - Oh..don't... You**
shouldn't be bowing to me...

**Rhaenara - I was reading a very**
interesting book, `The Bloodline of Tyria', you should read it sometime.

**Rhaenara smiles. Vialeth smiles**
back, a little awkwardly.

**Vialeth - I'm glad that I got**
to see you, one last time. But... why did you call me here?

**Rhaenara - I'll get to that**
soon enough, love.

**She waves away her question.**

**Rhaenara - Anyway, I have**
something to show you, shall we? Oh, but wait, you can't be seen in the city
like this. Here, drink this.

**She hands her a vial**

**Rhaenara - It's safe, I**
promise.

**Vialeth takes the vial from**
Rhaenara's hand and drinks it in one gulp.

**Rhaenara - Perfect.**

**Rhaenara picks up the cat and**
snuggles it in her arms. Vialeth looks at her trustingly.

**Rhaenara - I have requested you**
to come back to see someone very important.

**Rhaenara smiles at the Ministry**
Guard, allowing her entrance. She speaks in hushed tones at Vialeth.

**Rhaenara - Do nothing reckless,**
you are safe here. No one else is up here. I will not follow, but you must go
through the doors ahead.

**Rhaenara looks at Vialeth,**
putting her down, and letting her transform back. Vialeth shakes herself off.
Rhaenara holds Vialeth's hand, assuring her. Vialeth enters the room and was
surprised.

**Vialeth - Viseron!**

**Viseron looks out at his**
castle, unable to leave his room.

**Vialeth - I mean... Your**
Majesty.

**She kneels**

**Viseron - Vialeth, it has**
been... A long time.

**He smirks at her.**

**Viseron - There is no need to kneel**
to an old friend. Rise, Lady Vialeth.

**Vialeth - If you wish it,**
Majesty. I heard you were hurt.... You look... I mean, that must have been
awful.

**Viseron - If it weren't for**
that joke of a duke, Kevin. I'm fine now, I have regained memories, and learned...
New things while I have rested.

**Viseron places his hands on his**
lips.

**Vialeth - I am glad to hear it,**
Majesty. But the Duke...so it *was*Noipros
who did this to you?

**Viseron - Do not call him a**
Duke. He is stripped of that title, and he is to be stripped of his right to
live.

**Vialeth - That is only fair.**
But I am glad to hear my suspicions confirmed. To think that he and Rhaenara
were...

**Vialeth can't bring herself to**
say the word `married'

**Viseron - Do not worry, I know.**
My aunt has caught me to speed. No need to sugar coat it. I have come here to
thank you.

**Vialeth - For...yes. Of course.**
But you have no need to thank me. I didn't... I mean, you are my king. Of
course I will do whatever needs to be done for you.

**Viseron - You do not even know**
what I am grateful for, do you?

**Viseron turns around to look**
back at the castle. Vialeth follows at a safe distance.

**Viseron - I want to thank you**
for giving me this.

**He points at the palace.**

**Vialeth - For killing him, you**
mean.

**She is surprised out of**
politeness for a moment.

**Vialeth - I did what I had to**
do.

**Viseron - Rhaenara has told me,**
what he intended to do. Thank you, Lady Vialeth. I know now, what she has
sacrificed for me. Something only a true mother would do...

**He thinks to himself, looks up**
at Vialeth, and smiles to himself.

**Vialeth - She has fulfilled**
that role for you, hasn't she? She cares about you a great deal.

**Viseron - My Lady... You do not**
know... The truth. She treats me like my mother, because she *is*my
mother. All this, it was meant for me.

**Vialeth - She...but that**
doesn't make any sense... Surely King Auron would know if you were not his son.

**Viseron - I am his son.**

**He laughs softly to himself.**

**Vialeth - Then...**

**She looks briefly horrified,**
but hides it quickly.

**Viseron - That changes things**
between you and her, doesn't it?

**Vialeth - I will never love her**
any less. Your Majesty.

**He twists his face before**
responding.

**Viseron - Nevermind that. I**
have learned why. I need not tell you, even though you are one of the few I
will not...harm.

**He lingers on that word before**
continuing.

**Viseron - I know now I am the**
one that was meant for this world. I know that I must get to Mordremoth. And to
do that...I need to stop others in my way. If you find the idiot fuck
pretending to be the duke, then send a raven in my direction, I want to know
where that scatter-brained fool is.

**Vialeth - Of course,**
Majesty.

**Viseron - He can't get to the**
Dragon before I do.

**They both bow at eachother.**

**Viseron - Now, leave. I have**
business to attend to. I don't care where you go - have a go at my mom before
you get that flying fuck named Noipros, she's been stressed lately. (laughs)

**She grimaces, and tries not to**
show it.

**Vialeth - As you wish, Majesty.**
(bows)

**Viseron ignores her words, too**
caught up in his thoughts and devices.

**Power of the Dragon**

**Blintoc looks sidelong at the twitching armaments of Raza.
He sidesteps away from her.**
**Noipros
emerges from the gate, glowing red with crystal power.**
**Raza catches
the reaction out of the corner of her eye, and smirks.**
**Noipros takes
a deep breath.**
**Raza - Oh,
finally.**
**Noipros smiles
as Blintoc nods at him.**
**Raza - So...
Welcome back**
**Noipros - Loyal,
aren't we?**
**Raza -
Some...new acquaintances or mine knew when you'd be back.**
**Noipros - Raza,
how is everything in Rata Sum?**
**Raza - Running
smoothly.**
**Noipros -
Blintoc...you haven't spoken. Is something wrong?**
**He shrugs**
**Blintoc - Not
really. She seems to have everything handled so far.**
**Noipros
studies's Blintoc's face.**
**Noipros - You've
done well, Raza. Palawa Joko is repelled for now, and the Crystal
Dragon...names me his champion. (chuckles)**
**Noipros - And
Raza?**
**Raza - Yeah?**
**Noipros - What
of her location?**
**Raza - She's
been quite busy, actually.**
**Noipros - Ah...
The naive little thing...**
**Raza - She's
been in Divinity's Reach for a while.**
**Noipros - Then I
know where she's headed next. Every Sylvari finds their way back. Return to
Rata Sum, you two. With Joko repelled, we may finally focus on
Mordremoth.**
**Raza -
Noipros...**
**Noipros - Hm?**
**Raza - Will the
power of the crystal dragon work against Mordremoth?**
**Noipros looks
distracted, staring at the red crystals around his new armor.**
**Noipros - It
will have to.**
**Raza - We all
know how that happened with the airship last time.**
**Noipros -
Keino... We won't make the same mistake.**
**Blintoc -
And...wouldn't we just be swapping one world conquering and consuming dragon
for another?**
**Noipros -
(chuckles) I do what I must.**
**Blintoc - For
who?**
**Raza - That
sounds a lot like Keino.**
**Noipros looks
down at Blintoc, concerned.**
**Noipros - For who?
I've...never been asked that before.**
**Blintoc
shrugs.**
**Noipros - No. I
do it..for me. For my house. I sacrificed my will to fight the jungle dragon.
That's more than anyone else has done. All except for Keino...**
**Blintoc -
Well...one could argue means don't justify ends.**
**Noipros stares
at Blintoc blankly.**
**Noipros - I
won't let this petty war of dukes stop me. Even if it means I have to brand
Tyria from the Ring of Fire, to the Shiverpeaks. Go, to Rate Sum now. I have a
visit to take care of.**
**Raza - Yes, milord.**
**Raza salutes as
Blintoc is taken aback.**

Intensity

**Vialeth walks toward the Grove**
as Noipros looks closely and recognized Vialeth from a distance.

**Vialeth feels a little**
uneasy... Nowhere to rest and she still has a long way to go.

**Noipros confirms it's Vialeth**
by the bow and taps her shoulder. Vialeth was surprised.

**Noipros - Shhhh, little leaf...**
You thought you could hide from me....

**Vialeth - Duke Noipros...**

**She is on her guard.**

**Noipros - Have you enjoyed**
hiding in Divinity's Reach? Or were you somewhere else?

**Vialeth - How did you... How**
long have you been following me?

**Noipros - As soon as you**
entered Divinity's Reach... I knew. You forget, I'm a noble.

**Vialeth - Were.**

**Noipros - Yes, exactly. Were.**
What did you tell Rhaenara?

**He gets closer and closer.**

**Vialeth - I told her what you**
did to Viseron!

**She backs away.**

**Noipros - Bad move. You realize**
I hired you to fix Divinity's Reach?

**Vialeth - You hired me, and**
then you were going to kill me. Duke Ho... I was told, that you were going to
kill me.

**Noipros - (laughs) Ah, I see.**
The game. I knew there was something wrong with that moa at Viseron's
coronation.

**Vialeth - I should take you**
back to Divinity's Reach. People are looking for you there. The king... He
asked for you in particular.

**Noipros shakes his hands in a**
mocking fear.

**Noipros - Ooooo, how I shake!!**
A terror consumes me!

**He leans closer and Vialeth**
takes out her daggers.

**Noipros - Put those**
away...before you hurt yourself.

**Vialeth narrows her eyes ``Do**
you think I'm a fool?''

**Noipros - Yes. You should run**
while you still can. In fact, I'll give you a headstart.

**Vialeth - I'm done running. You**
should pay for what you did to Viseron.

**Noipros laughs**

                                        The
Bones of Zhaitan

**Matithias stands on a stage before his men, the sun's first**
light glimmering over the horizon.

**Lierrin - Attention, soldiers! The commander is going to speak!**

**Matithias - Thank you, Lierrin.**

**He clears his throat.**

**Matithias - First of all I would like to thank you all. For**
staying here with me, and for being patient with me. It was important that
being here be your choice. Especially considering we're ``off the grid' as it
is. You are some of the finest warriors I'be had the pleasure of commanding,
and that is why I have asked you to be here. I've kept you in the dark about my
motives for the past few days, I apologize for that, but I've been
quite...busy.

**He stands next to a large crate and looks in it.**

**Matithias - Hmm. Yes, good. All here.**

**He turns to his men.**

**Matithias - I don't know how much you know of our king...or**
former king, if the word I have is up to date. Noipros. Our good friend the
duke, has achieved something terrible. He has found a way to harness the power
of the crystal dragon. Now I know this is alarming, but his power is still at
an early stage. Which means with your help, we can rub him out before he gets
too powerful. Now some of you may be wondering how we can do this.

**He reaches in the crate.**

**Matithias - This is the Godskull Slayer. A sword I crafted out**
of the bones of Zhaitan. With it's power, I should be able to match that of
Noipro's crystal. However, on the off chance it doesn't. I've also made
this.

**He pulls out various pieces of armor, one after another. Large,**
heavy pieces of armor...made of bones. He removes his helm.

**Matithias - This is what I have been up to. Now I know this is**
shocking, especially for those of you who have not seen my face before. But for
those of you who are still willing to fight with me, for those of you who will
stand by my side. I will protect you. And together, we will clense the land of
evil. But we can't do it with what we've got now...

**He pulls the crate to the center stage. He pushes the crate**
over, out falls a large number of weapons made from bones.

Changing Sides

**Howl sits on his throne, a**
plate of grapes untouched on his lap. He stares off to the side. He is alone in
the throne room.

**Blintoc - Hello, Duke.**

**Howl - Who the fuck?!**

**Blintoc - I don't believe we've**
been introduced...

**Howl glowers, seething up at**
the Asura

**Blintoc - My name is Blintoc. I**
am an ...`associate' of Noipros.

**Howl draws his blade.**

**Howl - How lovely to make you**
acquaintance, little Asura. Is that all, or shall I kill you now?

**Blintoc - I'm not here to**
fight. I have information for you.

**Howl raises on eyebrow, and**
sighs. He sheathes his sword.

**Howl - Fine.**

**Blintoc - Noipros has made**
questionable decisions recently...but he has crossed a line... I am afraid I
must reconsider alliegances.

**Howl stares blandly up at**
Blintoc.

**Blintoc - I am unsure if you**
are strickly aware of his current involcement with respect to the Elder Dragon
Kralkarorik?

**Howl - ...I had suspicions.**

**Blintoc - Well..based on new**
information I am forces to conclude that he has been claimed as a thrall of the
dragon. He claims to have gone to the Crystal Desert, defeated the great lich
lord, Joko, and then returned, names the crystal dragon's champion. He seems to
be completely focused on Mordremoth. I believe the phrasing he used was
basically `I will Brand all of Tyria if I must.' So... He seems not to care of
an elder dragon kills everyone, so long as its the dragon he prefers. I hope
you can understand how this might shake my confidence?

**Howl - (sigh) I don't care...**

**Blintoc - Care or not, the**
information is delivered. I head to Reach next. If you have any word for the
queen reagent or the king?

**Howl - No.**

**Blintoc - I didn't suspect so,**
but..well..it's polite to ask.

**Howl - (sigh) Is that all?**

**Blintoc - Yes. I have better**
things to do than talk to you.

**Howl walks up to the grapes on**
the floor, and looks at them a moment, then kneels to pick them up.

**The More**

**Howl sits on Korg's seat, staring at the floor. Sighs and
frowns. He looks up and sees an image of Noipros.**
**Howl - Not you.
(groans) I thought... I was done with you. I'm... I just... I can't, Noipros.
I-I told you...the game... the game is over. I am done playing. I have...a
chance...okay... Please, stop...?**
**He stares at
Noipros...frowning.**
**Howl - ...I
don't care anymore...**
**Noipros stares
back smiling**
**Howl - I let all
my pets go... I thought I let *you*go. I just...**
**Noipros
crosses his arms.**
**Howl - ...No...
I can't, okay?**
**Noipros
disagreed and frowned.**
**Howl - I can't
do it anymore. I'm sick of it all.... I don't want...  ...To do it
anymore.**
**Noipros
touches Howl's face and frowns. Howl doesn't feel anything.**
**Howl - I love
Korg.**
**Noipros is sad
at this.**
**Howl - All I
want in this world...is...Korg, can't you understand that.**
**Noipros
disagreed**
**Howl - Can't
you...see, I don't want to fight. I don't wanna... I just...want... (mumbles)
Cottage on the hill...**
**Noipros smiles
and extends his hand out. Howl covers his eyes wit his paws. Noipros forms a
fist.**
**Howl - I just
want Korg...I just want... I just want Korg, just want Korg, just want Korg.**
**Noipros
emulates skipping rocks on a lake.**
**Howl - (mumbles)
Just want Korg. Cottage on a hill. Korg. Go...**
**Noipros shakes
his head solemnly.**
**Howl - (sobs)
I'm scared, Nopy.**
**Noipros smiles**
**Howl - I'm so
scared.**
**Noipros gives
a warm smile, holding How's foot.**
**Howl - He's
gonna die... I just know it, and I'll be alone...I'm... I'm...**
**Noipros gently
rubs it, but his hand phases through his fur.**
**Howl -
I...(sniff) I...**
**Korg enters
the throne room. His armor is only a little bloodstained.**
**Korg - Howl,
dearest!**
**Howl - I...
(sniff) Korg!**
**Korg - I- Are
you alright, love?**
**Noipros was
sad and then disapates in a butterly storm.**
**Howl -
I...I...I'm fine, this is just...this is nothing...I was...um... Um...**
**Korg - You're
crying, dear...**
**Korg brushes a
tear off How's face with a claw.**
**Howl -
It's...It's...nothing... Sorry. Um... I just...**
**Korg still
looks concerned but nods.**
**Korg - If...if
you're sure...I trust you.**
**Howl cleans
his throat and hugs Korg.**
**Korg is
surprised for a split second before he hugs Howl back, wrapping his arms around
his love and holding him tight.**
**Howl - Don't
ever leave me, Korg...**
**Korg - You're
okay, my darling duke... I am here. Oh, sweetie... I'll always come back to
you.**
**Howl sniffs
loudly**
**Howl - I
was...worried...**
**Korg - Oh,
dearest...there hasn't been a battle yet I couldn't walk out of...but...but I'm
sorry I worried you.**
**Howl nods into
Korg's shoulder, but doesn't say anything.**
**Korg -
Hey...cheer up, love... Everything worked out...and now we have it.**
**Howl mumbles
something.**
**Korg - Oh,
Howl...my darling, darling Howl...**
**Korg gently
rubs Howl's back, trying to reassure him.**
**Howl - I don't
want it.**
**Korg - What?**
**Howl - I don't
want it anymore... I don't want any of this! I just... I just...**
**Howl clings to
Korg tightly.**
**Korg - You don't
have to choose, dear... I will always be here for you.**
**Howl - But
what..what if...?**
**Korg - What
if...?**
**Howl - Something *happens*I can't... I can't do this anymore,
Korg... I just... I can't. I can't deal with Noipros, I can't deal with...any
of this!**
**Korg -
Howl...you have to be strong...and I know that you are. You know what will
happen if...we let this all go.**
**Howl is quiet
for a moment.**
**Howl - Is
this...what *you*want?**
**Korg - What?
This throne room? Servants? Power? No... No..I only want you...but we both know
the price we have to pay...in order to be together...to be safe.**
**Howl's paws
clutch Korg's clothes tightly, sniffs, and looks at the floor.**
**Howl - Give it
to me, then.**
**Howl holds a
paw out.**
**Korg pulls out
of the hug to get room to reach. He reaches into his pack and...very
carefully...removes an intricately detailed Hourglass. He places it in Howl's
grasp. He looks at it dully.**
**Korg - Glint's
Lair...is in there.**
**Howl - I see.
Let's get ready, then...**
**Korg - For the
trip to Dry Top.**
**Howl - (nods)
And...(sigh) Auric.**
**Korg - I have
heard stories... Tarir should not be a bad place to live.**
**Howl stows the
Hourglass. He opened his mouth to say something, but nods. He extends his claw.**
**Howl - Will you
come help me get ready?**
**Korg - Of
course...and, if I may say, love... I think you will make a fine father to
it.**
**Howl doesn't
respond.**

**Preparing For The**
Thorns

**Noipros enters the port, twiddling**
his fingers. Raza is muddling about suspiciously, awaiting Noipros' return.

**Noipros - Raza?**

**Raza - Aww, milord! Welcome**
back.

**Noipros - Where's Blintoc?**

**Raza - He's off running a few**
errands, he mentioned.

**Noipros - Errands?**

**Raza - He did not specify.**

**Noipros - Probably nothing.**

**Raza - I trust everything went**
well?

**Noipros - The Sylvari is**
scared. Rightly so anyway. She'll deliver the message. And regrow the arm.

**Raza - I still have my agents**
keeping tabs on her, just in case. The arm?

**Noipros - Nothing important. I**
need for you to prepare somethings. We must leave Rata Sum.

**Raza - Oh...**

**Noipros - I know... But it's**
time.

**Raza - And where to?**

**Noipros - The Maguuna**
Jungle.

**Raza bears a nervous look**

**Noipros - Raza...do you**
think...we are capable?

**Noipros seems nervous as well.**

**Raza - That depends on what**
we'll be doing.

**Noipros - Defeating Mordremoth.**

**Raza - Well... Only one way to**
find out.

**Noipros - With the help of what**
remains of the Pact, my asurans and I may stand a chance.

**Raza - Right?**

**Noipros - Right... I've already**
told Ameirahh to meet us at Verdant Brink.

**Raza - Don't worry, it's a tall**
order...but...we'll make it through okay, always have.

**Noipros - If Blintoc is around,**
tell him too. I wouldn't want his work to be in vain.

**Raza gives a reassuring smile.**

**Raza - I will.**

**Noipros - The Duchess Taiga**
will assist us as well. And as for Rata Sum... I've contacted someone to take
my place as regent.

**Raza - It served our purposes**
will enough. Besides, there's too much attention here, I can't be at my
best.

**Noipros - Are you not**
interested to hear who will be duke? Regent Duke that is...

**Raza squints her eyes, and**
silently listens.

**Noipros - Well, I've summoned**
my grandmother. She's...uh...capable.

**Raza - Hmm... Do I know her? I**
don't think we were introduced.

**Noipros - Have you ever heard**
of the Archmage Renatia Noipros? The woman took down entire camps of Centaur on
her own.

**Raza - Sounds vaguely**
familiar...

**Noipros - Whenever my father**
was at war, she was...there. After my mother's death, she's been more than just
a grandmother.

**He looks down.**

**Raza - Ah, so a more than**
trusted ally, that's very wise.

**Noipros quickly looks up again.**

**Noipros - Anyway, prepare your**
things. We leave at dusk.

**Raza - Yes, sir!**

     Part 2

**Noipros studies the schematics.**

**Howl - Heya, Nopy!**

**Noipros crystal sword**
sparkles.

**Howl - Check out my new duds!**
Man, I'm gonna look so cool...

**Noipros ignores the illusion.**

**Howl - Hey, don't you like it?**

**Raza peeks around the corner, concerned.**
Noipros grabs his head as Raza is confused. Noipros peeks over his shoulder,
staring at Raza. Raza quietly observes the odd behavior.

**Noipros - Stop it. You're being**
dumb.

**Howl - Remember, that time by**
the waterfall? I told you my DEEPEST DARKEST secret. Uh huh.

**Noipros - Secret? (chuckles)**

**Howl - Yeah! Remember, and you**
didn't even freak out or anything.

**Noipros - I didn't?**

**Howl - Don't think my dad would**
understand like you did, Nopy.

**Noipros - I...didn't.**

**Raza gathers her things, and**
begins collecting data crystals for transport.

**Noipros - Is this the price I**
pay? The price of failure? You tormenting me.

**Howl - Nope nope nope, sure is**
no better friend than my Nop! Nah, that's not it.

**Noipros - Not it? Hah...**

**Howl - You're gonna have to see**
their faces every time you fall asleep, though.

**Noipros - Who's faces...?**

**Howl - Well, everyone you**
killed, silly.

**Noipros looks startled.**

**Howl - Boy, there's a lot of**
them. All dead.

**Noipros - I...didn't...**
Rhaenara...

**Noipros grabs his head, his**
crystal sword shining bright.

**Howl - Y'hear that?**

**Noipros - No.**

**Howl - That's the sound of**
burning people, Nopy!

**Noipros - Burning?  The**
wedding...

**Howl - Yeah! The nobles!**

**Noipros - I did that...**

**Noipros falls to the floor.**
Raza still hears all of this babbling from Noipros.

**Howl - I guess you could say**
they're charred now, Nopy! Get it! Cause I'm your charr friend.

**Noipros - I did that... Howl?**

**Howl - Yeah, buddy?**

**Noipros - Why must we fight?**

**Howl - Well...I guess it's**
because you're a monster, Nopy.

**Noipros looks at his armor.**

**Noipros - No.**

**Howl - Kinda sucks though.**

**Noipros - I'm a champion...**
No!

**Howl - Cause, if you're a**
monster, which you are, a really terrible one - that kinda makes me a monster,
too.

**Noipros - Why don't I feel it**
anymore? The connection we had. Is it still there?

**Howl - Guess I don't need you**
anymore.

**Noipros grabs Howl but phases**
through.

**Noipros - You need me!**

**Howl laughs**

**Noipros - Like I need...you.**

**Howl - Silly boots! Noo...*you*need *me.***

**Noipros - We don't deserve**
this...

**Howl - Oh, I think we do.**
Well...you do. Murderer.

**Noipros - (smiles) And you're**
last. When you die, I can finally be at peace.

**Howl - Nah, you can't kill me.**
You're not that suicidal.

**Noipros - I can**
finally...die.

**Howl - Hey, Noipros.**

**Noipros - Mordremoth awaits me.**
I can't... What?

**Howl - I'm really excited to go**
to this ball.

**Never Trust Anyone**

**Raza Derilus arrived from the**
northern shores of Orr, by ship, from Rata Sum. The Inquest agents gladly
welcomed her arrival, but did not fret over her presence. Nor her intent. Raza
sets out a sigh of relief.

**Raza - Ahh, finally. Away from**
that blabbering lunatic. Now I can get back to it.

**She hears nothing in the deep**
dark, and begins to here voices coming from the crypt.

**Raza - Be quiet, you morons...**

**??? - We thought you wouldn't**
show!

**Raza - Of course I would**
show...too much is riding on this. I trust you have the artifacts?

**She sees the priory members**
showing off three remarkable powerful artifacts.

**??? - There weren't easy to lift**
from the archives, y'know.

**??? - We hope it's worth it...**

**Raza - Trust me, you've all**
done splendid work.

**She gathers artifacts, and with**
a bit of magic, conceals their true nature.

**Raza - You all are dismissed,**
and I wouldn't go back to the priory if I were you. Just lay low until I tell
you otherwise. No doubt they'll be looking for you after stealing *these*.

**The priory members bicker and**
plot their next course of action, while Raza returns to the surface.

**Raza - Oh... And don't stay**
here too long... Unless you want to end up food for the remnants of Orr.

**She laughs, stops, ponders, and**
muddles to herself.

**Raza - I hope these will please**
the justiciar.