Danyel, The Light of the Shadow Isles
Greetings, fellow summoners! :D This is my first post and also my first attempt to propose a champion design I have come up with. Please share your thoughts about it and I hope it will be decent. (Some stats will certainly need some re-balancing...) ;)
Side note: It is really long to read, so the lore goes by: Alindrias was an empire that existed before Noxus and Demacia. It occupied the whole upper part of Valoran and was the mightiest faction of its time. Then, after the passing of the previous emperor, it was plunged into chaos by the endless civil war. Danyel was born in the aftermath of the civil conflicts when the empire was now bordered by factions well known in Valoran today: Demacia, the Freljord and Noxus. As the rightful heir to the throne, he set out to protect the remaining lands of the empire of its bordering enemies. He won many great battles and ultimately restored part of the empire's glory. However, he is then betrayed by his cousin who sought to obtain his blood which would allow him to control the most destructive weapon of the empire. It went terribly wrong and the empire was destroyed once and for all. Those who survived had to face the unexpected betrayal of Demacia and Mount Targon. Danyel still managed to save his people and led them out of trouble. A mysterious curse had possessed him, however, and he brought only death to his kin by guiding them to the Shadow Isles. He is now trapped in these lands of darkness, like a glimmer of light amidst endless obscurity...
Danyel The light of the Shadow Isles
Stats: Health: 512.11 (+70 per level) Mana: 301.22 (+30 per level) Attack: 60.25 (+3.4 per level) Attack speed: 0.671 (+0.28% per level) Movement speed: 352 Health regen: 6.41 (+0.78 per level) Mana regen: 7.59 (+0.7 per level) Armor: 27.893 (+4.5 per level) Magic resist: 32.1 (1.05 per level)
Roles: • Primary: Fighter • Secondary: Tank
Skins: • Swiss Guard Danyel • Vanguard Danyel • Janissary Danyel • Mechanized infantry Danyel • Knight of Zakuul Danyel
Abilities: -Eye of the Aurora Danyel uses eye contact to activate his abilities. An eye contact with the enemy for 2s gives him a stack of Eye of the Aurora. It will only give half of a stack if only 1s has been achieved. Small icons are present to indicate the location of the enemy’s sight (Some like volibear have different eye emplacement). In addition, he will be granted of true sight for 25s on a single opponent after reaching 4 stacks on the specific enemy. Stacks are not spent when using an ability, but one only last for 25s. The maximum amount of stacks is 20.
-The Blades of Illusion: Damage Range: 500/500/500/500/510 Mana cost: 45/45/40/35/35 Spell Range: 400 Cooldown: 16/15/15/14/12s • slows him for 7% when toggled After stacking 2 stacks of Eye of the Aurora, Danyel casts two ring of mirage blades onto his wrist, gaining 25%(+10%AP) of armor and magic resist. His next two auto attack will become range attacks and will deal 130 %(+8%AD)(+40%AP) of his damage. If he decide to attack once, he loses 50% of all the effects of the ability (except the damage). The duration is 4.5 seconds. Enemies behind or beside the Blades of Illusion are not affected by this ability. It does not block any attack from passing through and the defensive buffs only apply to Danyel. Once the blades hit the enemy, they mark the ground with Fallen Light for 10s.
-Crystal Mirage: Mana cost: 95/95/90/90/88 Range: 560 Duration: 8/9/9/10/10 seconds This ability becomes available after using Blades of Illusion twice and 4 stacks of Eye of the Aurora are also needed. When available, Danyel calls upon the Fallen Lights (All Lights within an area of 280 of diameter, with each pairs giving 100% of the effects of the ability) to converge onto a targeted area, dealing 30/40/50/60/70 magic damage (+50% AP) and blinding the target for 1 second. He then gains a buff where all enemies except towers can only see him with a delay of 1.5 second. The delay increases of 0.1 for each 50 range intervals (example:350=1.6s of delay) at a maximum range of 600(it will not give any bonuses past this range). Duration of the ability is 6s.
Citadel of shifting scales: Mana cost: 90 Range: 300/320/350/370/400 Cooldown: 10s/8s/7s/7s/7s -Passive: slows him for 2% when it is unlocked and an additional 0.5% per level
- If targeting enemies: Danyel’s scale pieces leave its plate armor shell and crawls towards the target, dealing 35/45/50/55/60 true damage (+15%AD). If the armor pieces hit the opponent while on the move,it slows him for 2s/2.5s/3 by 40%/46%/52%s. If the ability reaches the target at the designated area, it roots it for 1.2s. When the ability is active, it grants him a 10% speed bonus and an additional 1% per level
- If targeting himself: He is immune to the next two attacks for 2s. This ability can also be used on allies, but it loses 40% of its properties. If an enemy approaches too close to Danyel, he will receive half of the first property of this ability at the cost of losing 85% the armor and magic resist bonus.
-Diversional Assault: Mana cost: 105 Range: 350/400 (illusion spawn range/Charge range) Cooldown: 16s/15s/14s/13s/12s -Passive:
- Clear edge: Light gathers onto his weapon every 6 strikes and grants him 5%(+20%AP) armor piercing Danyel releases an illusion in a distance of 100 from him that would charge towards the enemy dealing 110/115/120/125/150(+40%AP) magic damage. He can then repeat the charge but this time himself dealing 25%(+12%AD) more damage than his basic AD. The illusion lasts 1.5s and will attack the opponent if they do not relocate. During the process of the attack, he would remain invisible to the enemy. Only the first charge requires 1 stack of Eye of the Light on the targeted enemy in order to deal damage. The second assault does not have any restrictions.
- Labyrinth of the Morning Stars Mana cost: 160/180/180 Range of spell: 605 Range Diameter: 500 cooldown: 150 seconds/140 seconds/125 seconds After stacking 3 stacks of the Eye of the Aurora, Danyel casts a vast illusion of a maze that slows the opponents by making them go in a specific path. If the enemy have been marked by Crystal mirage, the they cannot harm any ally including Danyel while anyone can damage them at their will. It also deals 50 damage(+50%AP) per second to anyone marked. The spell lasts for 2 seconds.
“Condemn what they have done. Cherish what they shall do.” • Danyel
The sun is my grief The moon my sadness Your suffering shall be swift Mine, endless
“Will man ever comprehend the laws of this realm, where nothing is in black and white?” - Danyel, Champion select.
Movement: I am the will of my weapon Your sight shall be reshaped My deeds truly reshape the future My deeds shall shield me of the deepest fears I am always unexpected Melancholy is my sole companion Memory is a daunting burden No one is spared of lies Your eyes are mine A paladin never leaves defeated I shall face the odds with impetuosity Light is forever on my side With firm steps Justice tends to confuse itself with violence What will torment my body shall not reach my heart My hand stretches ever closer to my destination Mounted or dismounted, neither affects my battle My soul is beyond what you can break All who aim with their eyes shall miss I am the star amongst the darken sky I march on a path of uncertainty I attend to a never-ending journey Even in the boundlessness of darkness, there is a beacon of light Stars cannot shine without the shades of nightfall One light fades, another shall rise No being is innocent Betrayal is my deepest scar Killing does not equal justice Nothing is either right or wrong, but our judgement makes it so The eye is a flawed sense as it can only glare into the past Do not trust what you see One should not foolishly obey their sight Men often mistake past with present, present with future and future with past. Behind all evil, there is a victim My burden is my guilt, yours are your eyes True victors are born in defeat It is not words that shape our deeds, but deeds that define our words Dance, O, gracious light My light shall break through the thickest midst
Attack: This is where we will meet, dear opponent. I always choose the field of battle. A new battle awaits! Only my yore will be seen by my foes! My blades shall cleave across the night skies like the falling stars My light shall never succumb I shall dictate the circumstances of our engagement! Witness grief through my eyes! Swiftly, they shall fall Step aside! Or you shall be put to rest! Surrender or bear the burden of a shameful defeat I shall clear a path to amidst the harshest storms No longer shall I moan my past!
Taunts:
You are blind until you die dear foe
You lack the gallantry to be called a champion
Engage me, and you shall reckon with my resolve
Admiring my past… beautiful and yet unforgiving, isn’t it?
You are like your weapon; you only scratch the surface and you shall never reach inside
Lament while you still live
I have no need to stain hands of the blood of foolish scums
I see you have gathered a foolish mob
Cease your pitiful insults; I shall only address you in battle
Jokes: I shall be the headlight of the train at the end of the tunnel Balance is only a mere word...no wonder why they all say I’m broken…. My foes adore chasing their whimsical friends… I would gladly let your pride blind you
Special: Fear the dance of my blades! (blades of illusion) Bring me this coward! (serpentine scale) Such is the fate of those who admire their enemy (after kill) Kuh!... I can’t even differentiate reality and fiction myself (after getting stunned or immobilized) You have silenced me...But can you silence my will? (silenced)
• Taunts to specific champions: Demacia Allied: • I hate matchmaking... Common: • You are all unworthy to call yourselves keepers of justice Garen: • A cunning general wins before heading into battle, an imbecile charges into the fight then wins • Justice is only an illusion men created to fool the peasants • Your loyalty matches the obedience of slaves Jarvan IV: • Abandoning your nation for a selfish personal quest only prove your greed for glory • Do you understand the meaning of trespassing? Lux: • There is always light amongst the shadows, as there is darkness in the brightest light. • Your light is as wicked as your laugh • There is no need for a lamp in clear daylight Quinn: • I shall feast on a meal of “valor” tonight • Relying on each other? What a laughable joke! • Your pet does the all the work only so that you can claim the credit. Xin Zhao: • Your spear may be swift, but a wooden stick is still a worthless rod • A lengthened dagger will not harm me • Noise does make you braver Shyvana: • Why don't you join your friend near the river? He seems very sympathetic Fiora: • Looking for an opening? Do it as you please, but do not bother me in my quest for minion gold • You can stop your futile search for vitals, they are non-existent. Lucian: • Purifying does not involve killing • You were the cause for her loss, yet you chose to wrongfully accuse us of murder? • There is no such thing as certainty. Will you ever comprise the rules of nature? • Revenge is not the sole path you can take • She would rejoice of your forgiveness, not of your revenge Noxus Noxus allied: • Honorable foes are more worthy than shameless traitors Darius: • Greetings, lumberjack of Noxus • One simply cannot solely rely on strength and courage in battle; he also has to use his wisdom. Draven: • The League of Legends is a place for duel, not for execution • The executioner shall become the executed • Face the fate of your victim Katarina: • Daggers are no match against my halberd • Your dances do not impresses me • I felt a scratch. Was that an attack? • Violence solves everything… after your death Cassiopeia: • I shall claim your head for those whom you betrayed • Traitors are the worst enemies one could ever face • I’d rather die in an ambush than to perish to treason Riven: • A broken sword may be reforged, but can your broken spirit be the same? • You are unworthy to your sword, as you are to your beauty • Your existence is a horrifying waist to life • You have shattered your weapon, and with it the little dignity you had. Dr. Mundo: • Next time, I will pull your tongue out of your mouth Mordekaiser: • You are nothing but a shadow of your former self, just like your power • How can a loud and noisy empty suit of armor ever find wisdom in battle? Sion: • What? Have you lost all your teeth? Singed: • Only cowards amongst cowards run with a shield Rakkor: General: • The rumors are true. Only cowards carry shields Pantheon: • You sure are proud to be equipped like a lowly peasant • Your people needs to evolve • I can only see bloodthirsty savages among your kin • A true artisan of war must be as cunning as a fox. Your wisdom, on the other hand, pales in comparison to a baker’s. • I feel sorry for your shield; it has to shelter fool like you • Ha! This is what I call send a coward flying! Leona: • Your delusions are as blinding as the sun • You are nothing but a slave to your god • You have my thanks for your crucial help for my campfire Diana allied: • An enemy of my enemy is my ally, for now….
Yasuo: • A deadly wind, a honest wind…
Lore of Alindrias: Alindrias had once been a proud and powerful empire where trade and culture flourished. The city of Alinburg was the capital of this land of riches; it was a majestic city with three rings of defensive walls sheltering a vast metropolis of more than a million inhabitants. At the heart of this magnificent maze like megalopolis, far above the boundless plains of the Adens, was the setting of the Alindrian royal palace. Crossed by veins of large bodies of water, it stood high beyond any other infrastructure in the region. Ports and docks encompassed inside tall ramparts of solid stones littered the river banks, proudly demonstrating the affluent might of the empire. The colossal structures of stone and marble were not solely prestigious, for it had great luxuries as well. Exquisite and fascinating gardens complemented the immense courtyard of the monument. Stone bridges hung over the crystal like waters of the creeks flowing between the mazes of greenery. The palace’s marble walls shone under the gleaming of golden sunlight and the ceilings were adorned with colorful paintings. Splendid fountains supplied the pools with an endless source of freshwater, showing an extravagant magnificence of Alindrias. While tales about the unmatched splendor of the royal residence envied many, the mysteries of the imperial libraries never left its gates. Rumors about millions of scripts and books soaked with the knowledge from the two hundred year old Alindrian Empire fascinated countless scholars around the Valorian continent. None, however had the privilege to reach it. One towering structure, isolated by hundreds of steep staircases, stood above the underground hall of wisdom. Anchored upon the palace’s breathtaking platform, the imperial court was a symbol of might and magnificence. Chandeliers hung high above the glittering surface of polished granite and few could conceal their admiration for the glistening crystal that embellished the throne. Needless to say, all who would enter shall be reminded of Alindrian strength as the guardian of civilization. This splendid marvelous domain of the emperors was flanked by an immense garrison quarter. There, elite guards of the emperor protected the domain with an impetuous will of doing so. Outside the palace’s imposing ramparts was the monumental city of Alinburg. Beyond it, an empire that stretched from the Freljord to the Great Barrier. One could never have foreseen the possibility that a once feeble and weak city state bordered by powerful enemies would one day raise an empire from ash.
Military strength was decisive to both conquest of new lands and the defense of the empire’s borders; The Alindrian could field an unstoppable force of 2 million and a half men composed of battle hardened veterans, ready to bringing down another enemy. A limitless trade system and advancements in technology offered the people great prestige and inhabitants from various regions migrated towards this beacon of hope where civilized fashion of living was highly promoted. Crime was fought without mercy and criminals soon preferred to turn themselves in rather than to face the police task force. Overall, the Alindrians’ authority was unchallenged and their might was unmatched. As the laws of nature have depicted, however, all that began must end. By the year 945 of the imperial calendar, sadness fell upon the once joyful streets of the capital; the emperor, Edrien the Dominant, passed away after 40 long years of rule filled with glorious conquests and painful loses. He left behind a boundless treasure of knowledge and wealth along with the heritage his empire. All that would soon fuel the greed of many who once served him.
The empire was plunged into chaos following the passing of the previous emperor. Quarrels erupted in every corners of the once mighty Alindrian domain. Alleged heirs to the throne and powerful warlords who had all formerly fought under one banner now turned against each other. One after another, towns and cities were burned to ashes during the years of bloody conflict. Many of the empire’s subjects seized this unique opportunity to establish their independence. The South-West regions, previously ravaged by terrible struggles to own this land, were now reunited by Orion. A new power, Demacia, soon arose through the man’s guidance. Meanwhile, discontent grew amongst the powerful tribes of Freljord in the North as they were forced to participate in this bloody civil war. It was only a matter of time before they would follow the example of the Noxian revolution. The faltering situation was further worsened with the feebleness of the succeeding emperors and their failure to act in response to outside threats. Soon, the only true remaining domain of this formerly glorious empire was its capital Alinburg, scarred by war and ravaged by endless pillaging. The city was a shadow of its former self; without the income to maintain the palace with proper care and with most of the funds thrown into strengthening the overstretched military, it was mostly left desolated. Only the imperial court was valuable enough to be spared of the sad fate that was reserved for the rest of the gardens and halls, now rotting in dust. The streets, deserted and left to the few who dared to wander lifelessly on these formerly popular aisles of great beauty, soon felt in ruins. Same could be said about the shops and marketplaces where an endless supply of goods used to flow in like the current of a river. All that had made Alinburg the dawn of civilization were left abandoned, now nothing more than another place to be consumed by time. Beyond the protections of the weakened city walls laid the countless tombless graves of the men dragged in this bloody butchery called war.
The year 950 of the imperial calendar, however, marked a time of peace after the years of devastating civil war. By then, Noxus and Demacia became sworn enemies, starting a long lasting conflict. The tribes of the Freljord, broken by differences in ideologies, had likewise an internal quarrel of their own. This was indeed a great opportunity for the current leader of Alindrias to recover from the chaos and to seize back what they had lost in the 30 years long conflict. Making allies with their neighbors, the people of Mount Targon and Demacia, appeared to be a valuable option in order to retake what was rightfully theirs. By fall of the year 955, after lengthy negotiations, terms were finally reached. The coalition agreed to claim major Noxian territories where one’s contribution to the battle or siege would assure the ownership of the province. The assaults began a few weeks later, as it was concluded. Determined to crush any futile efforts to resist the reconquest of the Solvoy regions (present day Noxus), Alindrian troops marched at incredible speed to reach their destination. These battle hardened warriors of the empire were an unmatched driving force. The vanguard of the Alindrian army, made up of the elite paladins and led by the new heir to the throne, met little defiance to stop them. The lighting fast strikes of the finest warriors the empire were too much for Noxian troops who thought that a mere axe and shield could halt their advance. The two other members of the alliance also monumentally underestimated the strength of the empire, for they initially expected the Alindrian armies to meet heavy resistance. The imperial army quickly triumphed over their unprepared foes, annihilating most enemies before anyone else could even effectively locate the fields of the battle. Consequently, this campaign brought the empire a new hope amidst the dark ages it was submerged in. The conclusion for Noxus, on the other hand, was far more than devastating, for they had suffered terrible losses at the hands of the Alindrians. Many key fortresses and cities were either demolished or had fallen to enemy hands. They finally sought peace after 3 days of stalemate, preferring a shameful defeat than to pursue the hopeless fighting. The success of the campaign, however, did not come without its drawbacks. The achievements of the Alindrian armies had certainly awed their allies, but it had also left them empty handed. Displeased of their dominant altitude, relations soon worsened between the empire and its bordering neighbors.
The ceasefire agreement was signed and the paladins of Alindrias returned triumphant, reanimating the dead streets of the capital city with the news of their victory. People flowed out of their houses to welcome these new heroes with flowers and cheers. All who had witnessed their grand entrance now turned to what lies ahead, no longer doubting the hopes of a brighter tomorrow. Men and women alike cherished the rebirth of the withered civilization of Alindrias. They were wrong to believe, however, that such oblivious creeds could ever be achieved...
Little was known of what occurred that night. Legends gave an insight of the opulent festivities held to celebrate the glorious triumph, but none could recount the destruction that engulfed the vast domain of Alindrias. Only scarce rumors remained to tell the lore of a cloud of black flames feasting over its once fertile lands. Territories beyond the borders of the empire were however left untouched, as if this unleashed evil contented brought doom solely upon the noble nation of Alindrians. Gone within the time lapse of a single night, the glorious capital city of Alinburg was annihilated, along with any hope of restaurating the past glory and beauty of the Alindrian culture. Origins of the hatred that had caused such dreadful disaster is a mystery that may perhaps never emerge from the shadows, for there were allegedly no survivors to the void of destruction.
The year 956 of the imperial calendar marked the end of the once prominent society that had ruled the upper part of Valorian. The marvelous cities of the empire were devoured by an unknown evil, along with the men who had dwelled in its streets. Soils within the vast domain of Alindrias were turned into barren waistelands and forests were burned to ashes; they shall take decades to recover from their desolated appearances. Matching the waning sunlight in the horizon, Alindrian banners felt, never to be raised again. Dreams of a long lasting civilization were shattered into oblivion, forever lost and never to be reborn.
Lore: Snow softly fell upon the battle scarred city of Alinburg; great fires blazed high above the ruined buildings aligned along the streets, waiting to be devoured by the cataclysm that devastated the landscape. Men passed to collect the bodies of strangers and relatives alike. While some mourned their losses, others worked tirelessly to dig out debris, desperately attempting to liberate the victims trapped under the mountains of rubble. In the distant horizon, the intensity of the battle slowly waned. The vast Aden plains were littered with the remains of the three week long siege. Mountains of rotting human remains that littered the site could be matched with the blossoming of flowers at spring; an eerie fog soon masked the carpet of corpses comparable to the greenery of the vegetation now lying underneath this graveyard of men in armor. A pungent smell of death slowly drifted through the air, catching and suffocating any unfortunate man to walk by.
As the last dying sunlight illuminated the sea of bodies, a cry disturbed the sinister silence of the aftermath. From this dark age of chaos and total war emerged the new heir to the throne of Alindrias; Danyel, eighth son of the previous ruler of this empire, was born. The baby cried vehemently. His mother, current empress and widow of Emperor Marc the Feeble, caressed him passionately in an attempt to appease the infant’s lament. She then slowly sprinkled drops of water onto his forehead, a widely practiced Demacian birth custom. While many cherished the hope that he shall restore a brighter future for the withering flower of Alindrian culture, others had darker intentions of their own...
Years passed as a new generation of men rose to meet this dark age of civilization. Ashamed by the weakness of predecessors and tempered by his will to bestore the glory of his empire, the young Alindrian prince invested hardened efforts in his rigorous training. Under his unchallenged desire to succeed, the future ruler of the empire soon matured into a man of courage and valor. Danyel was born warrior. Although he wasn’t blessed with superhuman strength, what he could muster was more than enough to carry the heavy armor in which he was expected to battle in. Gifted with the legendary halberd of his ancestors, the Blades of Delian, Danyel soon merged flawlessly his outstanding agility with this already lethal weapon. His deadly precision and swiftness were as admired as they were dreaded. A brave and courageous man in nature, he was eager to demonstrate his unmatched impetuosity in battle on several occasions. He was also a cunning general, capable of turning the odds against the enemy even on the verge of defeat. Armored in virtuous deeds, he led men of incorruptible loyalty through valiant defeats and heroic victories alike. Danyel was not solely a soldier; however, as his noble heart defined him as a filial person who would visit his sickening mother whenever time allowed him to do so.
Despite being the apparent heir to the throne of Alindrias, he did not ascended to power, for he considered his cousin to be better suited to oversee the empire. Instead, the young man willingly chose to face the harsh and cruel wrath of the Freljord raiders in the North. Little did he know, however, about the greed and desires that shall corrupt any man who wore the cherished crown of the emperor.
Danyel’s arduous efforts finally brought the savage raiding to an end. Peace was restored once more upon the vast northern borders of the empire and prestigious titles were soon his following his successful campaigns to halt the Northern intruders. His fame had yet to come to an end, however, for he achieved further triumph during the daring invasions of Noxian lands. Accustomed to brutal art of war, he and his companions of arms shattered the myth of Noxian invulnerability with relentless cavalry strikes. Their success against all odds awed the whole upper Valorian continent, bolstering the hopes for the empire’s rebirth. Despite the ostensible revival of the 250 years old civilization, its inevitable fate was already sealed...
Following the return of the victorious conquerors from the recent campaigns, huge crowds gathered on the once deserted streets to bid them welcome. Majestic colors of flowers soon filled the avenues and cheers quickly overcame the previously imposing silence as the shining cavalrymen proudly paraded on the large boulevards of Alinburg. By then, celebration was the only thing the people of the capital city had in mind. Huge banquets were henceforth held and the citizens of Alinburg enjoyed the great many opulent activities of the festivities. Amongst the fooling appearances, however, a terrifying secret laid beyond the reach of the oblivious populace of the capital city.
Cheerful cries and laughs from the ongoing fete could still be heard as Danyel followed the footsteps of his cousin, negligent of the mystery that awaits him on the other end of the corridor. They soon arrived at a pair colossal gate covered in dust and decaying by the lack of proper maintaining. Pushing them open proved to be easier than it appear to be, revealing a golden coffin hanging high above from the ceiling by a gigantic chain of crystal metal. The mysterious box was left untouched by corrosion, giving away a blinding light and some of the finest work of art Danyel had ever seen. Aside from an extensive eye catching crystal, the surface was entirely masked by splendid sculptures depicting a mythical lore. Marvelous details of the plot were beautifully defined by the breathtaking work of art. Fine gold used to adorn the surface gleamed under the shining torchlight. Curiosity quickly overran Danyel’s thoughts as he interrogated his cousin for the origin of such fine treasure. The answer he received, on the other hand, pulverized his fascination for this so called jewel of great beauty. Danyel stood still in the eerie silence of the room, petrified. Time seemed to had come to a halt as he stared up, looking straight into the dark crystal where terrifying scenarios suddenly materialized, melting away the young man’s naive curiosity. Amidst the dreadful fear that pervaded his senses, he shut his eyes in horror.
What he had gazed upon was in fact an ancient relic, retrieved at the cost of countless lives from the shadow isles and fed with yet more human essence. All the sacrifices were not in vain, according to his cousin, for the artefact would gift the power to use the world’s essence against itself to anyone daring enough to accept the endless suffering of a corrupted heart. Many daring people attempted to incorporate it into their body in the past. None of them, however brave or audacious they were, could carry the burden of this cursed item. The day of success nonetheless came in the shape of a cold evening night of November. Just as hope of ever finding the perfect host was about to fade away in the dusk of the sun, a young gal appeared at the gates of the palace, seeking for shelter from the freezing temperature. Guards initially refused her entrance and advised her to go to a nearby asylum. One of the alchemists who happened to wander by the courtyard, on the other hand, saw a large potential for her to become the next prey for the wicked crystal to consume. He hastily hurried to the gates and delightfully welcomed her presence, not by pity or by goodwill, but by the simple concept of greed for success. Sure enough, later that night, the alchemists of Alindrias reached their long cherished goal. Fire lighted the entire room, setting the piles of note papers ablaze as the mad chemists left the city without a trace under the glowing moonlight. Only their work remained steadfastly inside its prison; locked inside gigantic gates was the well-sealed weapon of mass destruction, patiently awaiting the return of its master, he who would return lying in a coffin and buried 500 feet deeper below.
Several moments passed before Danyel was drawn back to reality, still marked with a horrified expression on his face. His cousin remained nonchalant, however and contented to leave him in the abyssal fright of the revelation. Neither did he had the goodwill in letting the young prince recover from the shattering experience as he unveiled the second dreadful secret without remorse: the key to command this walking cataclysm was the royal blood of Alindrian descendance. What he invariable desired was in fact a sample of the red fluid to fulfill his greedy goal of domination, for this cursed relic could bring more power than any living being could had ever dreamed of. Ideas of another age of desolation where fear and despair would rule the lands of Runeterra resonated in Danyel’s mind. As he simply couldn’t allow such madness occur again, he refused firmly to give it away. The emperor at first kept his usual composure, but gave up his diplomatic ways when he realized that his cousin’s determination was there to stay. The two men started a quarrel in the same fashion than the ones that shattered this once dominant civilization into oblivion. As the angry argument reached its climax, Danyel pinned the final nail in the coffin as he hollered: “I wish not to become the next Mordekaiser*!” The words deranged the quietness of their surroundings and echoed in the emperor’s ear. Furious of the incessant refusals of the prince jeopardizing the plans he had long cherished for, he roared to his personal guards to take him away. Men suddenly emerged from the darkness beyond the gates of the room, rushing towards their prey with tremendous momentum. Danyel quickly dodged the assault in response to the sudden attack. Although he managed to evade the first two waves of intruders, he was powerless to avoid the huge wooden club waiting for him as he rushed past the pillars of dark marble. The aggressors then dragged him back into the room, leaving a long trail of red blood behind them. Recovering from the attack, Danyel glanced at what his cousin had become, a man filled with greed and betrayal whose only goal was to own whatever he consider to be rightfully his.
Scarce rays of moonlight bleached the thick marble wall of a pale band of silver. Within the moon-breached ramparts of the palace, stupendous architecture stood to veil the central garden. A circular dome, adorned by fabulous paintings, veiled upon the convoluted rows of disordered bookshelves of the imperial library. The weak torchlight scarcely carpet of books and blood that littered the ground. Its flames revealed the shadows of a young man on his knees, awaiting his judgement by his biased and wrongful adjudicator. Then, like the venom of Cassiopeia, words came out of his twisted tongue.
“Such a shame it is indeed! You were a worthy paladin! Or should I say a valuable tool.” A villainous grin materialized on his wicked face “ I only wish you were as brilliant and acute on the battlefield than in the imperial court, for now you are nothing more than sacrifice, a once famed hero now fallen to the luring of betrayal.” The malevolent emperor turned his gaze upon the curse crystal, contemplating it with admiration where others would back away without hesitation. “Though you are doubtlessly a traitor, I am a man of pity; I shall give you room for reconsideration. After all, you still are my kin.” Nothing disturbed the silence that reined the palace chamber. As the emperor awaited attentively his wanted answer, he was with nothing but the determined gaze of his kin. “Farewell then, you have left me without a choice. I shall accept your final words. However, I have ordered a very special treat for you tomorrow,” he proudly forewarned. Doubt soon filled the young man’s mind as it sought the consequences of his disobedience. Despite his undisturbed allure, he could not contain the worried mind of his; attempts to interrupt this cycle of anxieties were all but in vain. “Still wondering where your poor soul will perish?” the emperor suddenly demanded. “You shall seek it no further, for as you have perhaps already realized, all war has a price. Tell me, what does loyalty bring? Trust? Friendship? No, you are terribly mistaken! Loyalty only brings mindless slaves, a glorified excuse to justify our weakness and our feebleness! And you, dear cousin, you are nothing more than a tool! A fool who foolishly obeys those whom you judge “superior”! Did you honestly think your mother was someone who could be trusted?! Heh! You are nothing more than a miserable servant! But a slave with knowledge beyond what other fools of this imperial council could ever acquire nonetheless...” He paused for what seemed to be an eternity, and then resumed his shameless speech, exuding further evil through his wicked mouth “Despite your tragic failures, I shall end your life in a worthy manner, a death that a slave rightfully deserves; you shall be escorted to Noxus tomorrow, both as a remittance for their loss and as prized trophy of their grand executions. Do not worry, however, I will make good use of your blood, dear cousin.”
The golden pair of eyes dilated at the sudden revelation of his death sentence. The young heir soon lost his steadfast presence when his naivety was washed away by the horror of the terrible realization that he was betrayed by his own family. Tears materialized from his once resolved eyes, drifting slowly but surely across the prince’s pale visage. His struggle in sustaining his imperturbable composure waned in the sea of despair just as a flame of revenge emerged from his endless sorrow and ignited the young man’s will to retaliate. In an incredible effort to evade the grip of his foes, he unbound the constraint of his assailants, allowing the young man to dash towards the nonetheless well-guarded relic. An intense struggle hence began on the edge of the dazzling golden coffin where guards rushed to subdue the futile escape under the bitter roars of the emperor ordering them to restrain the insurgent. In the midst of confusion, one of the aggressors drew out his sword and drove the sharp weapon through the escapee’s chest in an attempt to neutralize further resistance.
The red-stained blade of the weapon still shone under the radiance of red flames. The imperial prince fell on his knees as precious royal blood gushed from the deep wound on his left abdomen. In a true act of evil, the emperor hurried to bring a cup under the bleeding laceration, proving the loss of the little humanity left in this shell of greed.
“What have you done you foolish, worthless scum?!” the king roared in his greed-stricken madness, “Have you no idea of this precious blood’s value?! You are unfit even to your title of slave! Now go and get this rotting corpse out of my sight!”
A hollow darkness followed, one that would perhaps alleviate the young man’s tortured soul.
Hours passed by before Danyel finally managed to evade the hollowness of the coma he had been plunged into. As he was welcomed by the thousands of dazzling stars painted on the darkness of the sky, blood continued to stream out of his opened wound. His chest lied on the ground, soaked with a lake of his own essence. He struggled with every movement he made, letting out painful grunts as he turned to study his surroundings. Tall clumps of bushes stood beside him, engraving a long aisle leading to the heart of the maze where a decaying statue dwelled. Soon, doubts of his whereabouts cleared as the young man caught sight of the marble beautifully carved figure, one that could only be found in the labyrinth of Lucerna. In spite of the atrocious pain overrunning through his weakening body, Danyel steadily crawled across the never-ending muddy alleys. Hatred towards this world corrupted betrayal by and fueled by greed soon overran his mind when he was reminded of the cruel acts that shattered his innocence. Like the cold breeze from the North, an uncontrollable fury filled his thoughts. Within every inch of difficult progress was the birthplace of more and more hateful judgement of this accursed destiny of his. The acrimony of his ire quickly turned to the men who had mortally wounded him; he damned and condemned the ones who left him to perish in this grave without a headstone. He hatefully cursed his hidden enemies and swore revenge upon the traitors who mercilessly ripped everything he once cherished apart. In the blinding rage of his anger, Danyel bitterly demanded slaughter to be cast upon his kin until their blood would fill the rivers and their corpse would litter the steppes of Alindrias. He was all but oblivious, however, of the lifeless shadow approaching him silently, reading his thoughts and memorizing all he had had in mind. Only when a black shade masked the moonlight that showed his path was the young man aware of her presence. Danyel turned back with difficulty and froze at the sight of a youthful girl, veiled in overwhelming darkness. In her silence entrance, the magnificent jewel she bore on upon her heart scantily shone among the layers of unlit obscurity where stars in the horizon succumbed. Petrified by the unexpected appearance, the young man’s worried eyes scrolled across her pale visage, seeking for the stranger’s identity. There was nothing to be revealed, however, aside from the crystals fused upon articulated arms gesticulated haltingly above her shoulders accompanied by a soft melody of tinkling gems and a hollow gaze on her barren skin. Then, before he could break the eerie silence, the core of the mysterious gemstone blossomed like the petals of red tulips, laying a vast crimson carpet beneath the boundless skies. A bottomless void emerged from the opening and soon began its avaricious quest for unmatched power. Its uncontrollable rampage consumed matter and light alike. Homes of countless families vanished without a trace in the devourer’s fury, but just as everything seemed to be lost, the hellish disaster suddenly came to a grinding halt. The constant roars of tremendous energy flowing across the dense air ceased as abruptly as they had come. Veiled by an unknown darkness, Danyel laid speechlessly on the cold muddy path. An alleviating stillness reigned upon the puzzled maze of Lucerna, marking the prelude to an unforeseen series of calamity. Without warning, the translucent stones ignited amidst the veils of darkness as deadly lights zapped across the darkened sky, setting aflame all that stood between the lethal ray and the horizon. The unstoppable wave of desolation scattered in every direction over the streets of Alinburg and the lands beyond, leaving a trail of oblivion behind it. Danyel could only watch in horror as the catastrophe raced towards the horizon. Recovering from his endless despair, he dashed towards the epicenter of the destruction in a vain attempt to save the city, doomed by his own curses. As his cold hand reached into the prismatic jewel molded upon her heart, the sharp crystal snapped in a deadly volley of shrapnel and crawled into the young man’s flesh, engulfing him of a freezing agony. This time, however, no blood flowed out from the gory wound. He was only met by the atrocious grief that invaded his body. He soon passed out, unable to bear the excruciating torment running thoroughly across his veins.
In the eerie lull of the aftermath, a young heir struggled once again to escape his eternal sleep. As Danyel cleared the mist of his coma, he glanced at the wound on his chest, now closed, leaving solely a swollen scar behind. His left hand, however, bore a new scare, where the shattered core of the crystal remained firmly anchored onto his flesh. His lifeless eyes then shifted away from his weakened body and soul, only to notice the desolation that encompassed him. His gaze scrolled again and again across the devastated landscape where the capital city had once stood. Huge clouds of thick smog, enough to mask the star, took their ascent above the ruins of Alinburg. Vaporized into thin air by the horrifying power of the crystal, the surrounding scenery was gone. Aisle of buildings were flattened and forests of dark flames awaited those that survived the wave of annihilation. Across the thick smoke was yet more devastation and, in the very midst of it, laid the sole oasis that encompassed the imperial prince. Danyel now stood before his greatest nightmare, witnessing its horror with the lament of his heart.
Sudden howls and cries abruptly interrupted the monotonous crepitation of the fire and with it the terror of his dreaded realization. Soon, dark shades of men emerged, hurrying rapidly towards him. His blurry vision, guided by the glow of precious metal, barely distinguished the golden armor of the Paladins. Their unexpected arrival pushed aside his grief and cleared his mind of regret. Danyel now sought to reclaim his lost strength as he lifted achingly his body; his hope resurfaced from the boundless sea of despair, fueling his desire to take back what he had lost. There were to be no joy for the guilty man, however, in this ocean of inferno created by his own rage, slowly engulfing the city that once stood proudly beneath his feet.
Men hurried hastily across the damned streets of the empire’s capital. Their polished armor shone brilliantly under dazzling dark flames as they rushed to liberate those survived the apocalypse from their shelter of debris. Piles of limestone laid on the streets’ uneven surface, defeated by the unmatched forces of the void. Shouts and screams could be heard in the distance as vehement laments raised over the deceased bodies of the city dwellers. Strangers and relatives alike moaned their passing while others carried their corpses to their destined graves in a long march of melancholy. Some however, wealthier and richer than their fellow citizens, wept at the loss of their belongings. Nothing seemed to disturb the wail of their saddened fate when a vast field of banners and torches rose from the tall chimneys of black smoke. Sentinels of the city, positioned high above the raging fires, quickly spotted the vanguards Demacian armies, impending from the wide grassland of the East. Their entrance was shortly followed by the proud warriors of Mount Targon as they made a rapid exit from the narrow gorge of the Southern mountains ranges. Words of it quickly reached the hastily improvised headquarters where what was left of the once over mighty force rallied. Welcomed with gasps of delightful surprise and sighs of relief, the unexpected arrival of their former allies brought hope to the remaining garrison troops. Though all seemed to suggest that help was on the way, however, they were mere guesses and assumptions of an unveiling truth.
Under the guidance of a thousand stars littering the hollowness of the night sky, valiant horsemen swiftly approached the temporary encampment. Stones of the cracked street floor skimmed in the intense galloping of the inexhaustible white mounts, covered in their polished veil of cast iron. The magnificent riders rode onward in all their splendor until they have finally reached the new base of operations. As the newcomers came to a halt, men rushed to rescue their beloved prince. Soldiers and civilians alike attempted to aid the recovery of the young heir’s weakened body; many brought vases of fresh water and soaked cloth in an attempt to alleviate his worsening fever while surgeons attended to more serious wounds. Under meticulous care of his people, Danyel rapidly regained much of his strength with ease thanks to their genuine endeavors and contributions. Despite his unnaturally short convalescence, the imperial prince had yet to fully recover to his former self. Occasional numbness from his left arm and the warnings of his loyal subjects did nonetheless little to oppose his unbreakable will to immediate return to his duty in his trusted suit of armor. His actions would soon bolster the morale of his men, however bold and reckless it may appear.
A thorough analysis of the circumstances gave him greater knowledge on their nearing allies who allegedly offered their help. Although many rejoiced at the mention of a badly needed assistance, the young heir remained vigilant. Amidst the delightful atmosphere, he demanded his commanders to act with prudence before a warm greeting should be held to bid them welcome, but his request came too late. Messengers have already been dispatched to meet the advancing armies and guards of the non-existent gates were ordered to allow the entrance of their late night visitors. Those unwise choices let utter dismay echoed through his shaken mind. He abruptly left his throne of crumbled pillars and rushed to the edge of the weakened marble wall, followed by a gathering of bewildered officers. A terrible sight awaited him at the rim as hundreds of Demacian banners and Rakkor standards marched in perfect synchronization. Torches turned the tall vegetation into a sky of crimson stars, all impending with a trail of ash and smoke behind it. The monotonous rumble of their parading footstep repeated itself mechanically under the dictation of various instrument. Armor, swords and equipment tinkled in the advance of this unstoppable force. In an array and a disarray of loud orders, the moving columns came to a standstill. Silence fell upon the scarred city of Alindrias, wounded not by the endless sieges, but a never foreseen catastrophe. Soon, an arrow storm rose to reach the thick smog above the city, disappearing amidst the blackened fog of desolation. It was no gentle snow, but a rain of lethal missiles masking the red sky with the thousand shades of dreaded darkness that fell upon the capital city. Curious glances turned into horrified regards, with their naive delusions torn apart by the unforgiving nightmare yet to be truly unleashed. Panic seized the city dwellers as they scrambled to find shelter among the ruins of broken stones. Shields were raised to meet the incoming projectiles and the men gathered to form large ceilings of wood and steel in desperate attempts to avoid their inevitable death. The torrent of falling arrows remained inaccurate, but some managed to find their marks. In spite of the shower of deadly missiles, the young heir was uninjured. The sharpened shafts merely scratched his well-crafted armor and all failed to penetrate the thick plating. The arrows did not leave him unharmed, however, as each pounding he endured was a bitter reminder of betrayal. Seizing the brief respite of the aftermath, Danyel quickly rearranged the Alindrian troops to establish a defense atop the collapsing ramparts of the towering imperial palace. A second volley made its ascension to the skies shortly afterwards and claimed more lives amidst their thinning ranks. Now, emerging from the piles of crumbled masonry, columns of eager Demacians charged uphill and pressed onward with great determination. Their progression was aided by archers who provided crucial support to their brave comrades. With their nearing enemies in their sight, the defenders retaliated with means of their own. They unleashed murderous salvos of javelins and arrows upon the advancing ranks of Demacians. The sheer numbers of assailants nonetheless proved to be an unstoppable force even in the face of such valiant resistance. Ladders soon arrived under the ramparts and were quickly put into effective use. Large stones fell onto the climbing soldiers in addition to the barrage of missiles. Many attempts to seize the wall failed at terrible costs, but some still managed to reach their foes. No honor or glory awaited them atop of the walls, however, for those who stepped into this last domain of the Alindrian Empire were driven to engage the defenders in bloody hand to hand combat. Melee engagements to maintain or take control of the ruined fortifications ended in gory bloodbath. The attackers also assaulted the large and emptied entrances where the iron-clad doors no longer stood. In a futile and yet heroic attempt to obstruct these openings, bloodied soldiers gathered to form tight lines men of valiant men to replace the gates themselves. In spite of the vicious resistance, the faltering ranks of Alindrian citadel guards and militias were eventually overrun by the relentless attacks. Shaken survivors of the ferocious engagement were now in full retreat. Not all was lost yet, for they quickly rallied to the vestiges of the once magnificent imperial palace where fresh reserves had already dug in. With their positions secured, the brave defenders anxiously awaited their battle eager foes.
Chaos and disorder reigned behind the front lines. Fear seized the minds of the citizens and many panicked at the sight of retreating soldiers. Some planned to evade this death trap in the cover of confusion. Others, meanwhile, attempted to dig tunnels in futile efforts to clear a path out. Most of them remained nevertheless petrified in horror, praying and worshiping mightier beings to aid their hopeless situation. Danyel now must attend to two fronts. With his men reassured, he turned to face the fear of his people. Quarrels began about what to do next. Several proposals of surrender were harshly repelled, but there seemed to be no other option. As the endless dispute went on, the young heir stepped in and suggested a daring plan. The civilians, escorted by paladins, were to be evacuated south towards the harbor of the city through a narrow path yet to be controlled by their foes. A small detachment was to be left behind to lure the assailants and to buy precious time for the escape. To the astonishment and dismay of the officers, he firmly refused to leave his beloved home. Protestations did little to shake his unwavering will; soon loyalty and cowardice triumphed over their good intentions, but some were not so easily vanquished.
The citadel guards steadied themselves to welcome the incoming onslaught of assailants. Soon, another violent bloodbath soaked the stone floor as men slaughtered each other pitilessly. Danyel emerged from the shadows of the night, veiled in his marvelous armor of gold and silver. With the escape of the civilians assured, he turned to bid his kin a last goodbye. Just as he took his first step towards his certain death, however, invisible forces abruptly seized his shoulders and brought him onto his saddle. Powerful grips were cast upon his body, restraining any futile evasion. Astound of their bold move, he bitterly ordered his fellow paladins to set him free. In his outrage, he demanded for their reason to stain his honor. “Our people need a leader,” a voice came down like the roars of thunder, “And it is our honor to prevent your pointless sacrifice.” Although the struggle persisted in spite of his companions’ denial, it eventually waned under the inescapable restraints. An indescribable sadness followed Danyel’s remonstrance as the pitiless massacre befell the brave and valiant men atop the summit of Alinburg. He rode onward in endless grief with tears rolling down of his cheeks. The young heir’s sufferance had yet to come to an end, however, for more damning events shall fill his already burdened heart with further despair...
The stones floor trembled under the tremendous motion of the ongoing evacuation. Unstable structures threatened left and right to crumble onto their only hope. All failed to admire the beauty of the night, as none were willing to gaze upon it. One after another, the former dwellers of Alinburg, once proud citizens of their mighty empire, hurried in worry across narrow pathways amongst the scorched ruins. Soon, they arrived at collapsing bridge under the cover of darkness. Dangerously hanging across the gentle curves of rapid stream, much of the structure’s once marvelous allure were gone. With their fate hanging by a thread, the Alindrians rushed in a desperate race to cross it first. Arrays of poorly improvised crafts made of hastily attached wooden debris were also assembled, but few managed to make through the deep waters. The paladins, charged to ensure their safety, were powerless to halt the mobs of panicking refugees; even Danyel failed to reassure the anxious minds of his people. Meanwhile, huge masses of troubled souls gathered on the other bank of the river. Leaderless and frightened, they left the haven of their city in bewilderment and wandered carelessly into a slaughter field. Sudden screams of horror emanating from the tall grasslands of Aden were the first preludes to yet another gruesome bloodshed. Trapped between the icy waters and the warriors of Mount Targon, a cruel death awaited the columns of survivors as they were butchered mercilessly under the moon’s witness. Escorting troops boldly engaged their new foes, but the hopeless struggle was quickly vanquished against the overwhelming odds. All seemed lost when brilliant glitters emerged amongst the breaches of the ruined ramparts. Impetuous paladins rode fearlessly onward across the deserted grassland with tremendous speed. A young man veiled in polished steel plates daringly led the charge. As he galloped alongside his companions of incorruptible loyalty, he vowed to impede the intruder’s feast upon his people. There was more than met the eyes, however, for his will materialized into star like crystals out of thin air. Falling trails of stardust united
behind the charging wedge of men and horses, slowly piecing together to form illusions of the golden horsemen. Ranks upon ranks of appearing mirage masked the carpet of ashen soils beneath their feet like the plunging comets descending from the night sky to bid them good luck. All lowered their sharpened halberds and lances as they approached the ranks of Rakkor troops. The warriors of Mount Targon nevertheless remained nonchalant in the face of such deadly onslaught and braced themselves to meet their advance. Despite their unwavering bravery, the overpowering momentum of the impact smashed deep into their lines. Swords clashed and shields shattered in the fierce melee that followed. Spears lunged and parried furiously, unable to decide a clear victor. The blades of Delian danced gracefully under the soft moonlight. The once shimmering surface no longer shone, for thick layers of stained blood have now hindered weapon’s ability to display its beauty. Danyel, along with his comrade in arms, bought precious time for the fleeing columns of refugees at a terrifying cost of men. Amidst the chaos of the fray, Alindrian and Rakkor warriors alike fell to the horrors of war. The corpses of countless valiant men soon littered the plains, soaked in vast pools of crimson blood. Badly outnumbered and encircled, the paladins found themselves trapped within another death trap. With their back against the wall, however, their despair quickly turned into a renewed fury. With the guidance of their young leader, the battle worn cavalry cleaved a narrow exit through the walls of shields and muscles. Their powerful mounts were once more entrusted to carry their riders out of the fray. However exhausted or weakened, these indispensable companions of theirs galloped with the same might and elegance they had demonstrated in their formidable charges. The heroic charge was soon turned into a hasty retreat, tightly followed by a path of mutilated bodies.
It was yet another ride of melancholy. A gracious silence fell upon the surviving horsemen who steadily galloped out of their pursuers’ reach. While total darkness masked the sorrowful sobbing, the gentle rays of moonlight evoked profound sadness upon them. No cheers of triumph rejoiced the weighting atmosphere, for none would disturb the forlorn silence of the aftermath. Danyel traveled nonchalantly across the desolate landscape displaying an unusually indifferent figure despite the unbearable grief slowly consuming him from within. Likewise to his fellow companions, he sought tears to warm his pale figure and to alleviate his burden heart, but no liquid flowed from the young man’s barren eyes; even his most genuine efforts to exhibit a motionless grim had fallen into oblivion. With his visage paralyzed into a stagnant sculpture, his precious gift to express emotions was forever lost. The young heir briefly paused in the anguish of his loss, wrapped deep inside a cocoon of invisible grief. He was soon obliged to pursue their way upstream towards the distant ruins of dockyards and warehouses in the choiceless situation. Enveloped with maddening suffering, Danyel struggled to tolerate the fierce dances of his heart.
Amidst tall columns of ashen smoke, towering silhouettes of masts and sails awaited the approaching riders. The majestic pride of Alindrian navy stood before their breathtaking amazement. Working with unmatched speed and precision, tireless craftsmen had succeeded to rekindle the sunken vessel from its shallow watery grave. Distant pummeling of hooves awakened the sentinels from their snoring slumber. News of their return quickly spread and all rushed warmly welcomed the impending cavalrymen as they leaped across labyrinths of crumbled limestone. The delightful mood was quickly torn apart by the bitter truth, however, for so many valorous men had willingly joined the fray, yet so few had returned. Pressed in the gravity of the crisis, Danyel showed no hesitation and ordered the ship’s departure without further delays.
A strong gust blew upon the bulging storeys of silvery sails. Men attended unwearyingly to their tasks as the hull gently swayed from side to side to match the tides of the ocean. The vessel's sharp bow, elegantly adorned of fabulous carvings, cleaved through the waves with ease. Beneath the shimmering light of innumerable stars, survivors of the unforeseen catastrophe sailed yet again into the unknown. Three days had gone by since the inception of the voyage and there were still no manifestation of a safe asylum. All but Danyel were in total bewilderment, obliviously trapped behind curtains of uncertainty. Reluctance troubled not the young man’s spirits as he steered the craft doubtlessly across the barren ocean with willful decisiveness. There was than met their purblind eyes. Within the apparent leadership and resolute demeanor was the dwelling of a thousand lies. Driven by an unknown force, he steadily led his people to their demise.
A dark silhouette protruded its sinister shadow in the distant skyline. Scarce glimmers of the night’s watch casted a narrow path upon the eerie tranquility of the dormant sea where stillness reigned unopposed in the unnatural quiescence. The vessel smoothly rode onward atop of the floor of liquids. As the large craft approached the abrupt seamount, it was welcomed by the spike like columns of ravenous coral. No wind blew to inflate the hanging sails, only a stiff and pungent stench of fermenting vegetation wafted across the sultry weather. Against all laws of nature, the ship progressed undeviatingly towards the mark of darkness. Unknown forces pushed it forward, ramming waves of water onto its thick wooden structure. Many aboard, wary of potential perils to venture any further, pleaded Danyel to reconsider his decisions. When their demands failed to reach the young heir’s unchallenged mind, they chose to ignore their fears and resorted to return to their posts. Cowardice, for once, would have spared the brave people of Alindrias from their inevitable conclusion. Perhaps the fate of the empire had already been sealed long ago, with its tragic downfall written in the stars.
Slumbering trees trunks encompassed the abrupt landing of stones and rocks. Etched in obscurity, exiled dwellers of Alindrias ventured ever deeper into unpleasantly thick fog. They soon entered into a tunnel of corrupted tree lines, dangling upon the narrow pathway. Twisted branches warded both sides of the curving dirt road, battening any openings with a deterrent rampart of spikes and needles. The survivors, locked in this labyrinth of sharpened thorns, struggled against its harmful grasp. Their pupils grew ever larger in the boundless layers of lightless colors; their feet sank in the oceans of mud and swamp like waters, but in spite of the tortuous conditions, all unwaveringly followed Danyel’s footsteps.
A bright, shimmering light broke through the mist of darkness. A pale visage emerged from the jaws of torn tree branches, succeeded by an endless column of breathless figures. Many rushed to welcome their new home, embracing the warming glow before them. As joy and delight flooded their boiling hearts, a tip of tenebrosity arose to engulf them all…
A rude awakening greeted Danyel in his return to reality. Screams of agony filled his eardrums. He stood alone amidst the suffering of his kin, beneath the sol veil of obscurity. Around him, men and women melted under the glistening blaze of colorless luminosity with their clothes consumed by its blistering torridness. Skin and flesh faded in its vehemence; the souls of his once beloved people vanished into the stars, forever lost in the vastness of the universe. The odor of charred skin soon corrupted the ambient air as the dying corpses mutated into terrifying beings of the undead. Horror overwhelmed Danyel once more, but it failed to benumb his body this time. He rushed futily to seize the rotting shells of his former comrades with dismay molded onto his visage. However, these petrified masses of scorched human tissue were no longer the people he ought to protect. Guided by the desires to diffuse their malediction, the ghouls like creatures staggered senselessly in every direction and sought for a new victim. Terror soon turned into despair, and despair twisted into endless sorrow. The young man mourned vehemently over the loss of those he had cherished with tearless laments. Danyel’s once robust limbs now laid defeated upon the cold cobblestone; his soul drowned in a boundless ocean of sadness and his valiant heart wasted away into oblivion. Anguish and desperation fused together to annihilate the remaining glimmers of hope. Even his steadfast will succumbed under its unrelenting pummeling, powerless to withstand the rampage within his mind. Amidst the immensity of his melancholy, encompassed by the walking carcasses of his kin, the young man’s already fragile spirit gradually waned into darkness. The moon, on the other hand, gently rose above the curtains of dense gatherings of cloud. Despite its alleviating nature, the rays of delicate glimmering only induced further suffering. Then, a stentorian voice emerged to waken Danyel’s dying presence. Like the wind’s whispers, it described thoroughly the misadventures of his. One by one, all pieced together to unveil a twisted revelation: the stolen crystal shall eventually be returned, yet the author of the unforeseen catastrophes was none other than the young man himself. In the wrath of his blinding rage, he bewilderingly desired the demise of the Alindrian civilization. It also pledged that he was chosen carry the accursed jewel to its former dwelling. The journey across the barren oceans was in fact nothing more than a sleepwalk to his predestined fate. Danyel’s emotions vanished, torn into oblivion by the petrifying realizations. The boundless regret he bore within his heart could not simply be described with the limitations of written words.
Stillness reigned upon the Shadow Isles without opposition. A sole beacon of light stood out amidst the darkness, waiting to be consumed by the grief within...
