((WHATS UP EVERYBODY ITS ME, and i lost the hype but OK, so this is one of the storie e been a little sheepish about posting, this is my favorite of all my writing and is one i plan to have published one day. so one thing I've realized with it, besides some chapters are terrible, is the title, which i know is the last priority but i need something better then Krampus the Ancient. Because as you'll realize or might not realize i strayed away from the original idea of this story. so i need a new title and i want your ideas please anything. but now onto the story. Please enjoy and tell me what you think, help me glow and and grow, thanks.)) (( same goes for chapter titles, thanks))
Ch.1 the boy and the monster
The sound of a screaming child breaks the night. A monster sits within the branches thinking of how the winter had come and gone so quickly like every year and now he would retreat to his cave. He was Krampus, the ancient demon of the night, the boogie man punishing the cruel. He groaned, years of age burdened him greatly and he wished. He wished many things, his job to end, for a meal that was not stale meat and grimy water.
He groaned again and jumped from his perch, he gathered up his wool cloak and rapped it tightly around himself. His pale skin, cold as ice, scared from those who dared challenge him creaked like the trees around him. The hooves fleck with dried blood from various things. His large horns brush against the lowest branches of the trees as he began to walk north, another winter gone many more to come.
Behind him a twig snapped, he spun around his cloak picking up snow and flinging it around. Five feet behind him was a small boy, who had somehow snuck up on him, in a small leather coat worn with age, inappropriate for the weather of the night.
“It is not smart to sneak up on me" he said. The boy, with black shaggy hair only four years of age at least, only blinked with curious eyes.
"It is not polite to stare at people either." The boy remained silent unmoving. "What is wrong with you do you not know who I am?" The boy shook his head, Krampus smiled.
His cloak fell “I am the punisher of evil, the monster of children in the night, I AM KRAMPUS THE ANCIENT ONE." He roared into the boy's face who was now only inches away. Krampus eyes glowed bright in the night which was lit only by the moonlight, his claws and horns glistened.
The boy seemed shocked by his display but far from the screams of extreme terror he was used to.
"Why do you not scream and cry in fear I am KRAMPUS do you not fear, fear itself you fool." The boy only stared "what trick is this, what are you, why do you not fear me."
The boy finally spoke "why must I fear you."
Krampus was shocked by the question "I am Krampus you fool. That is why, the name itself should be enough reason, I am fear, I am a demon, and I am hell spawn."
The boy stared for a bit "you just look like an old man with big horns who thinks he must be mean." Krampus was greatly surprised by the boys comment, and stood dumbfounded.
In the distance there was a howl of wolf, the boy yelped and ran to Krampus hugging him tightly. Krampus was so surprised he knew not what to do, but he quickly got over his shock.
He shoved the boy away "do not touch me." He grabbed up his cloak and threw it on "I leave you to the wolves, now hurry to your parents or you will be torn to shreds and eaten."
He began to walk away while the boy shivered with fear and said quietly "I have none." Krampus was quite shocked by the boys comment "what do you mean of course you have parents." The boy shook his head "I just woke up over there."
Krampus scrunched his brow it did seem strange he had gotten so close but where were his parents "um then go that way there's a village of people that will help you." He began to walk away and thought, why had the boy not fear him and even more his warm embrace of the demon.
He had never had this feeling so small but so strong and strange. He was at least three miles away when he heard the howls of wolves and the boy screaming for his help. He spun around in the distance he could see the boy had been surrounded by wolves.
He turned around and began repeating three words "don't go back" over and over. He stopped and grimaced "curse you Krampus" he muttered.
He spun around his cloak flying off & charged back chasing off the wolves with a single roar. The wolves ran tails between their legs, yelping with fear. The boy rushed up hugging him begging to let him come with Krampus and that he not leave him.
Krampus glared at him ready to shove the small boy away when he decided.
Ch.2 new day
Four years later
The snow fell heavy on Krampus’s heavy wool cloak as strutted through the deep snow. A nicely plump mountain goat was flung over his shoulder. It was the night before the winter solstice and then he would be forced to replay his yearly routine.
Ahead loomed a large cave with teeth of stalagmites. Its inside filled with seemingly infinite darkness. He smiled “home sweet home.”
The inside was musty and damp, the bats that lined the ceiling chattered nervously as Krampus walked under them. He continued down a tunnel that lead to several forks until he came to a poorly lit cavern.
At the back was a large oak door, he walked to it removing a black iron key from the folds of his cloak and inserting it in the lock. The door shuttered as he pushed it open. He stepped in to another dark tunnel he closed the door and waited till he was sure its large bolts and locks slid shut.
He sighed. “Home at last” he pulled off his cloak and threw it on to a statue of a gargoyle. He walked into the inner chamber that was unusually dark. He walked over to the fire pit filled with large logs, laid the goat to the side and grabbed the flint.
He scratched it on his claws sending sparks flying that quickly caught the large logs into a blaze. He sighed and looked around the cavern that held two beds. A table three chairs and a shelf with many treasures he had gathered through the years. Another tunnel lead off to a store room.
He looked towards the small bed that was empty, and the rest of the room was empty as well. He smiled “where are you little runt” he spun around, looking for Galvan.
Then he heard it above on the ledges that were higher up in the chamber. His grin widened, the giggling and shuffling. Backing up a little to make sure when he jumped he wouldn’t smack onto the ground. And there it was.
“ARGHHHH” Krampus felt the sudden wait of the small boy slam into his back. The boy, Galvan, clambered to keep from falling onto the ground, laughing as Krampus attempted to grab him.
After wriggling to get ahold, he grabbed a foot and swung the boy in front of him struggling to keep the boy from falling. The boy laughed loudly as Krampus held him up in front of him. Krampus waited till he stopped struggling till he put the boy down.
“I almost had you didn’t I, right?” he said smiling as he crawled into a chair. “I’ve been planning since you left looking for the best place to get you.”
Krampus cackled as he lifted the goat onto the table, “you sure surprised me, could you hand me the knife, you need to learn to not laugh while sneaking up on someone especially someone with some of the best hearing around, thank you, but did you get your chores done.” He said with a questioning look.
Galvan nodded “yep I skinned those two goat and that young yak you brought yesterday, I swept up, and organized the store room the best I could.” He picked up a needle and started threading a string through it. “I was going to sew up all the holes on your cloak if you don’t mind.”
Krampus only nodded as he began to skin the goat. He was thinking about his departure the next night. What he would do for two months and his worry for Galvan. It had been four years and two months since the fateful night he decided to take Galvan with him planning to drop him off in a town near to his path, but he soon grew a liking to the young boy and had taken him under his wing.
Since then he had taught the boy skills of survival, he also taught him skills any other human would learn which proved to be quite a challenge. But it had worked out, and the boy had become a big help.
“Also the some of the hens got out somehow but I couldn’t find any holes and the door was closed but I got them all back in.” Krampus was snapped out of his thoughts and looked over. “Um good job now um let see you remember what the rules are while I’m gone right.”
He sighed “yes don’t climb up into the nest, don’t eat everything at once, don’t mess with anything on the shelf, and don’t leave unless I somehow run out of food or one of the magic items starts acting weird or talking.” He said a little annoyed having to once again go over these rules.
“And” said Krampus. Galvan sighed once more “if somebody would to happen upon the door do not open the door.” Krampus chuckled at the boy’s exasperated attitude.
“I know you hate all these rules, but you know that I have been made a villain and that this make people wish to destroy me if they find you who knows what they do” he said he picked up the hide he had just cut clean of and looked at it “this would be nice for a new layer on my cloak, the old thing may not have much time on it but I can make it last at least.”
Galvan sat up “but in all the time I’ve been living with you I not once have ever heard of anyone entering or even coming near the cave, and doubt anyone can find it.” Krampus only shook his head and flipped the yak over and continued to work.
They worked in silence besides them asking for items or Krampus giving Galvan more tasks. This was most nights in there humble little hole that served as their home. This would also be the case till the next night after Krampus returned with last of the supplies Galvan would need and the Krampus would depart on his yearly tradition.
Galvan sat finishing up the job of sewing up Krampus’s cloak. Krampus entered holding one of the hens that they kept for eggs. It sat in his paw cooing as he stroked it gently “this little thing got out somehow and I can’t figure out how, the latch is on tight and there’s no holes.”
Galvan looked up at the hen “that’s one of the ones that got out last time just like I told you.” Krampus wrinkled his brow deep in though as he sat in his chair the hen picking at his fingers trying to get him to keep petting him.
“Done” Krampus snapped out of his little trance that Galvan commonly saw him enter, just thinking as Krampus had once told him when he was younger. He held up the finished cloak that he’d been working on since Krampus had left that afternoon.
“Thank you boy this will do nicely, did you get my bag all packed” he took the cloak and handed Galvan the hen, “yes every things there.” He patted the annoyed hen as Krampus slipped on his cloak. “thank you well then I will be off you remember the rules of course remember to keep up with your studies, chores and …” as he said this from the store room three more hen came walking out, “and figure out how they keep getting out, for Belo’s sake.”
He threw his cloak over his scared white back. Galvan stared at the many scars that littered his back. Each one a story, each one a battle, each one a death. A year ago he had gotten several new ones when a band of mercenary hired to kill him had attacked and failed. Some were still red from poison that had been added to the blades.
They had caused him great pain but had ended up healing. But now they were a constant pain one had opened back up a week ago, if wasn’t for Krampus miraculous ability to heal from such wounds so quickly he might not have survived.
He pulled the mysterious key that seemed to vanish whenever it entered his cloak. They walked towards the door and Krampus inserted the black iron key into the lock, unlocking the door. They waited until all the bolts and bars that held the large door shut were unbolted and raised. The cold air from outside quickly rushed in causing Galvan to shiver, but it seem to rejuvenate Krampus make him stronger ready for the night.
The hen scrambled out into the dark cavern which they were rarely aloud to enter. Galvan scrambled to gather them back inside while Krampus looked at something in his hand. When Galvan had ushered the hen back inside he spoke.
“Galvan it has been four years since you stepped under my wing and you are the age of eight now at most, I believe its time you had this.” He took the item from his hand and handed it to Galvan. It was a smaller version of Krampus key and made of silver. It shined brightly in the dark.
“It will help you find your way home if you are ever forced to leave, it will glow brighter as it gets closer to the lock and will of course unlock the door.” Galvan stared in aww, he had never seen any other key to the door except for Krampus’s key. It was surprisingly heavy for such a small key, it had several strange markings on it.
“Thank you, were did it come from though besides your key I’ve never seen another for the door?” he looked at Krampus who was stroking his chin.
He sighed and finally spoke “I’m sorry boy there is so much I have yet to tell you about me and I will explain much of it upon my return please be patient.” He hugged the boy tight “I now must depart good bye.” With that he strode out the entrance of the cavern without making a word and melted into the darkness like ice.
Galvan sighed and pulled the door shut “good bye.” He then presided to usher the hen back into their pen.
He thought deeply trying his best to remember the night he has met Krampus but as it had been for many years he could remember little of the night. It was a blur he remembered only Krampus taking out the black key and opening the door to his home years ago.
Back then it had been a dark musty pit, which had been almost unlivable for a human child which Krampus at spent much time making it a cozy little home. He sighed and looked around, he grabbed two books from the collection under his bed and walked over to the wall were he began climbing up to a small hole in the sealing.
Once he reached the hole and climbed in, he rummaged around the pile of books looking for the matches. When he found them he lit one and walked towards a large crystal jutting from the wall he closed on eye and aimed. He then threw the match at crystal square on the tip and was instantly out.
Galvan waited several seconds before the crystal lit up in a brilliant glow. He had no clue how the crystal did it but whenever fire would touch it the crystal would absorb it and begin to glow. Galvan turned and walked over to a small pile of books and placed one of the books on it. He then sat down and began to read.
This for the next few months would be how Galvan would spend his time, reading book after book. The room was filled with books that Galvan had read, many he had not, each one a legend a story that Krampus had collected over the many years. They were of knights, monsters, continents, history, and gods. A few had Krampus in them, but when Galvan read something about Krampus it was always how he should be feared and what to do to avoid him coming to your home.
Galvan despised it, Krampus wasn’t a completely horrible, bloodthirsty monster by heart, and it was his job. More of a curse given to him before his creation. Everyone hated him he didn’t get a choice whatever that meant.
He sat there under the dimming glow of the crystal, his mind drifting to other worlds. His eyes fluttered shut and he was asleep. Little did he know he was not alone in the shadow of the door way was silhouette of the little winged stone monster.
It chuckled “well, well Krampus my dear old friend its true your gone soft, well I can’t blame you. Sleep well little amigo we will meet very soon, very soon indeed.” The small creature slipped away into the dark chuckling to its self.
Ch. 3 old friends in the night
Overlooking the village of Valgan was a small cliff that cast a shadow over the small valley. Upon this cliff sat what the villagers called the dream reaper, this name was why Krampus always tried to reach the fastest.
The town was made up of the purest of dreamers Krampus loved it, so much to play with it made him almost giddy, or as close as a demon monster could get. But as every year the fun ended too soon. Guards ran around looking for him like little ants in a maze. He chuckled remembering the maze of books Galvan had made for the hen when he was younger.
The bells rang three times, he sighed it was time to depart from this wonderland of nightmares. He gathered up his cloak and began to walk briskly towards the town at the bottom of the Walled Mountains. He walked through the thick forest. Animals all around ran to avoid Krampus, bird’s chattered nervously overhead fearing he may attack.
He sighed fear that was his greatest weapon, and a wall that till the night he had met Galvan could not be broken. The boy had shown no fear, he had seen grown men, and the strongest of warrior, and their strength leave them a cowering mess with one glance from Krampus’s dark eyes. But not Galvan he had not even let out a whimper at an act that left all before crying for mercy. This why he had grown to love the boy so dearly.
Krampus was snapped out of his thoughts by a feeling. He groaned it was an all too familiar feeling. He turned around and looked up into the trees. Above hanging on a branch was the carcass of deer dangling lifeless. He growled this was a sign, a sign that meant they were near.
He recedes into the shadows and watched the sky, for any sign of them. He waited in the shadows looking waiting for the sound of their leathery wings. But there was nothing was he over reacting, had it just been a coincidence that they had come through here. Doubtful they never did anything like that except to tell you their near.
Then he heard Tisiphone’s wicked laugh that sounded like shattering glass, “dear old Krampus you’re getting rusty in your old age.” A bony finger brushes across his horns. Krampus launches out of the shadows and spins around and looks for the black figure, but there is nothing but shadows.
“Were are you” Krampus spun around looking for the demon.
More laughter rang out “he’s gotten slower as well, were disappointed dear old Krampus” Megaera chuckles deeply, her voice like nails on a chalkboard. He spun to look at the third born sister of the furies who never could hide her self very well.
“Megaera dear sister, he can see you I hope you know” the second born Alecto stepped forth from behind a tree, here black wings stretching out behind here, here ruby eyes starred at Krampus reading every inch of his very soul.
“Of course I do, I also know that I’m absolutely hopeless at sneaking up on dear old Krampus” she flew up and landed in the tree giggling insanely, “come on big sister don’t go sneaking around he knows were here.”
A large gust of wind erupted from behind him from the deadliest of the trio, Tisiphone. Krampus sighed and turned around to face the ruby eyed hell birth. Her black fur shimmered, her talons stretched long and deadly.
Krampus growled “what in the name of the seven divines do you want Tisiphone because I’m sure this isn’t just a friendly reunion is it.”
Tisiphone sighed and rubbed her temples “Krampus old friend you have not gotten any less clever have you, no we are here on business, though I hoped that you would have been a little more pleased to see use.”
Krampus watched the sisters every move “what is it then what, what reason does the mighty Malus’s have to send his greatest minions to see little old Krampus.” Krampus stood ready for an attack, the furies were born assassins their entire structure was built to slaughter an opponent quickly and quietly. They were not messengers and even if they were acting as messengers Malus would have only needed to send one.
Alecto strode forward “Krampus our dear friend I think you know why, the boy.”
Krampus was almost shocked that they knew of Galvan’s existence but Malus had spies every were Krampus knew he would discover Galvan one day “what of the boy he is not a distraction in the least you of all people should know that Tisiphone, if I have a boy living in my home so be it or does Malus not like me...”
Megaera swooped down and landed next to Krampus “of course we do Krampus, and Malus doesn’t care if you have a human boy living with you, he thinks it may give you a little more spirt, but…” she trailed of and turned away from Krampus.
Alecto sighed “what are sister is trying to say is that no one particularly cares whether your living with someone, it’s more of what is different about the boy then other humans and if I’m not mistaken you have felt it to.”
Krampus turned rising to his full height, towering over Alecto with a terrifying rage in his eyes “Galvan is no different than any other human, and as long as I draw a breath and blood rushes through my veins you will not go near him do I make myself clear!”
Alecto stumbled backwards startled by Krampus’s sudden burst of rage, she stood speechless afraid that a single wrong word would end in her being shredded. But her sister came to her rescue.
From behind Krampus he heard Tisiphone spreading her massive wings and storming over. He spun around to face her pure rage her body seem to grow and her eyes. As they had since there birth, the sisters were always very protective of each other especially Tisiphone.
She stuck a bony finger in his face “calm down Krampus before this gets bloodier then it needs to be,” her talon extended ready to slash at Krampus if it became necessary to fight.
Krampus was about to slash out when Megaera stepped in between them “please would you two calm down and not ripe each other apart, were just here to talk, Malus wishes to know if you know.” She cowered beneath the two demons attempting to prevent a brawl that would leave both severely injured.
Krampus relaxed a little he breathed deeply then spoke “for heaven’s sake what are you talking about, Galvan is no different than you and…, I mean any other human.”
Tisiphone chuckled harshly “any mere human would not leave a trace as strong as his on any demon matter how much time you spent with them, Krampus just admit it you know something is different about him. Yes, he may be human but I believe he’s more than that, don’t tell me you didn’t notice.”
Krampus sighed Tisiphone was correct year after year Galvan seemed to get a stronger and stronger aura, Krampus had been determined to write it off as him getting older and starting to see things but he knew all too well it was much more then poor aura sight.
Krampus glared “fine yes I have started to notice a little change but it doesn’t mean anything, it’s not like he’s a horror or something else I have checked several times in m any different ways, trust me.”
Alecto spoke up but stayed back from Krampus in case he had another outburst of rage “Krampus you know he’s not normal you told the fates yourself that you thought something was off about him. The reason we are here is because we think we know what he is. Ghe’ ‘or SIQ”
Krampus turned and stared at her a look of shock and disbelief, “that’s not possible ghe’ ‘or SIQ is only a cursed myth that is far from true, and if he supposed to be like the prophecy and I have seen nothing like that.” But Krampus thought, it couldn’t be possible a boy such as him being the child.
Tisiphone stepped up and put her cold hand on his shoulder “Krampus please listen I understand you care for that boy deeply and would rather not deal with what may be the truth, but remember he may not be him, but keep watch of him.”
Tisiphone stepped back and spread here wings “we must be going Malus is expecting us soon so we must leave now, Krampus it was um nice seeing you again.” With that her and Alecto took to the skies with a single flap of their wings and headed to the east.
Only Krampus and Megaera were left alone, Megaera spoke quietly “I’m sorry but you know it may be true, but…” she wavered not knowing what to say.
Krampus smiled slightly, “good bye Megaera it was nice seeing you again, hopefully next time we meet it won’t be because Malus sent you.” Megaera nodded and sighed then took off her wings taking her off after her two older sisters.
Krampus watched her go until he could see her no more and continued on with the heavy worry of what may be a fact that was too horrible to bare, could Galvan a boy who had never once shown any form of abilities be ghe’ ‘or SIQ, he hoped silently it was wrong.
Ch.4 A nock at the door
Galvan sat in front of the small pen were the hen were held in the small storage area. The room consisted of a rack and a large bench on which held an assortment of tools. There were several crates filled with food and other supplies that would last Galvan the rest of the year.
Galvan was removing the burrs from the hen that had gotten out once more and had found its way into Krampus small medicine garden. Galvan had found it after waking up that morning having a spasm. He had proceeded to free the hen from the prickly trap of a Wacom grabber, and now pulled the prickly grabbers out of the feathers of the bird.
“How in heavens name did you even get up in there, I know you can fly a little but not that well,” the hen clucked annoyingly as another bur was pulled out of its feathers. “And how did you get out that’s what I want to know, hold still or ill pull out a feather.”
It had only been three days since Krampus had left and Galvan was already having a wicked time keeping them inside their pen. The first night Galvan had awakened to them sleeping on him. He had no clue how they got out but it was already very annoying.
Suddenly his hand brushed across a small piece of metal. The hen released a loud screech as the piece fell loose from its skin. Galvan tried to calm the hen and pushed back into the pen.
He turned around to look at the piece of metal. It was small and looked like it was bronze, it had several symbols on it. Galvan had studied many languages with Krampus even a bit of magical symbols but he had never seen these symbols.
He reached out and touched it a faced flashed before him. He screamed and lurched back the face was gone. He looked at the piece that’s symbols were now glowing, but it was still. Hesantly he reached towards it and picked it up nothing happened.
He looked at it turning it in his hands, it was very cold and smooth the symbols seemed to have been carved into it. The symbols flashed suddenly causing him to wince.
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Galvan’s eyes flew open and saw a large room lavished with furnisher. A large bed laid before him it was empty except for a sword with symbols that grew brightly. “What are we” Galvan spun around to see three people two large men a short old woman, “murders that’s what by mal.” The men only shook their heads one walked over and picked up the sword it hummed.
He smiled “so be it mother.”
Suddenly the room vanished and he was on a battlefield. Bodies strewn out across the horizon, and in the middle stood a single being bundled in a cloak but something was wrong. His head turned toward Galvan, but what Galvan saw instead of a face he saw only smoke swirling.
Galvan gasped the man laughed and flew at him the sword in hand ready to strike. Galvan tried to run but was stuck in place. He screamed as he learched up from the floor of the store room.
He panted hard, what had he just seen, the piece was in his hand but was no longer ice cold but red hot he yelped as it burned his hand. He cradled it blowing on it when an arm reached around his neck.
He stopped seeing the flash of four sharp talons, “now amigo let’s not try to get away or you may find your vocal cords on the floor, we would prefer you alive but we just need your heart and blood.”
He sat completely still barley breathing as the claws slowly flexed “who are you.”
The person pulled its claws closer to his throat “shush little one my amigo will be here very shortly if he stops dallying at least.”
As if on cue a loud knock went out from the large door of the cave, “speak of the devil, grab his key and go let Lewis in.” Galvan heard something drop the floor next to him and felt a hand reach into his pocket grabbing the key. He heard the sound of something running to the door.
There was silent until the sound of the bars moving sounded through the chamber. He heard footsteps coming their way. He heard the door swing open and someone large walk in.
He heard no one but his captor did speak “what are do you mean I been waiting for you come on is the group waiting outside, good.” He heard something jump down from the work bench “get up now”
Galvan quickly got to his feet the claw still dangerously close to his neck ready to slash. “Follow me quick were on a schedule.” He turned around in front of him the man named Lewis stood a mask covered his face and he wore leather armor. The man was hunched over and his arm was a little bent.
On the ground a small gargoyle with one arm waddled towards the door. Galvan slowly followed. The gargoyle spoke quietly and his arm fell off and waddled over to Galvan’s bed grabbing his bag and began shoving clothes and a book from under his bed.
It dragged it over to Galvan and stopped. He picked it up slowly and the arm went back to the gargoyle. He continued to the door with Lewis following. They walked into the cavern were they found another man almost exactly like Lewis, but with a different mask.
It grabbed Galvan and pulled him towards the tunnel. They walk for a few minutes navigating the tunnels to the entrance they walked to the main entrance. Outside sat a wagon a two figures sat on it another creature like Lewis and a normal man who turned around and smiled.
“Well, well, well, well, well, well about time ya got here by mal ya were supposed to be here five minutes ago Rouen.” He had a sharp eastern accent that caused Galvan to shutter.
The gargoyle leaped up onto the strange man next to the driver “shut up you know why, its these cursed puppets there to easily distracted and I think you lost Boil he was supposed to be with those two and since he’s not with you I guess he ripped on a rock, their two weak see.” He gave a sharp kick to the one he sat on and a small hole opened in its arm.
A loud screech went out as the man seemed to quickly deflate until Rouen was sitting on a deflated body. Galvan stared at the strange show but said nothing. The man sighed “fine but can we get going we are on a schedule here ya know. Lewis, Nelly throw him in back and make sure he doesn’t get out.”
Lewis grabbed him and shoved him towards the cart he climbed in slowly as he saw the arm of Rouen jump of his shoulder and ran to the gargoyle. He sat on the bed of the wagon as the two puppets climbed in and the cart rolled away from Galvan’s home for which he felt he may never return to.
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Krampus ran through the village of Audis running from a guard who carried a large barbed spear. He turned into a dark ally and launched up to a balcony. The guard’s footsteps quickly approached the dead end.
Krampus chuckled the oldest trick and it still worked wonderfully without falter usually. He smiled as the brave guard hoping to slaughter the legendary demon of fear and punishment came charging into the ally sure he had cornered the scared beast but he had fallen into Krampus trap.
He stopped confused looking for were Krampus had gone he walked to the wall and felt along it pushing as Krampus crawled from his hiding place and stood in the entrance. The guard spun seeing the shadow fall upon him. He screamed in pure terror as he realized his mistake. Krampus charged forward a relished his mighty roar causing the guard to faint in fear.
Krampus stood feeling quite proud of his execution. He gathered up his fallen cloak and climbed to the roofs and began walking to the town’s edge. He hopped to get a head start to the next town so he could rest for a bit. But his stride was cut short as he saw the moon be blotted out as the figure of a fury spiraled towards him in a free fall.
Krampus saw could see it was Megaera coming towards him. She crashed into Krampus as he caught her midair. She panted hard speaking quietly “came as fast I could, fates saw it, took him, I’m sorry.”
Krampus rapped her in his cloaked “took who Megaera what are you talking about.”
She grabbed him fear filled her eyes “Del, he has him he took Galvan.”
Ch.5 run as fast as you can
Galvan sat a chain raped around his legs and arms that was connected to the leg of Lewis who hadn’t taken his eyes off him. The cave entrance had long since disappeared behind them as they rolled down the bumpy road.
The driver’s whistling was the only sound he had heard for miles. He had been already deciding that if he tried to escape that Lewis would just take a tug on the chain. If he could get it off he could maybe make a run for it.
But he hoped he would be able to get back to the cave, he had only been out a few times with Krampus but didn’t know where he was now. This was new land to him and would probably get lost.
Lewis suddenly made several creaking noises. The driver pulled the cart over to the side, “were exactly it’s not Krampus is it he supposed to be half way across the country by now right.” More creaking and the driver nodded.
He got down and led the horses over to a small clump of trees and watched the road.
“What’s happening” the said the small gargoyle Rouen, “why the heck are we stopping we have schedule.”
The driver held up his hand “keep the boy quite, Lewis heard some horses coming from up ahead well let them pass and keep moving.”
Lewis stood and came over to Galvan to put a gag in his mouth, Galvan took the chance he grabbed the puppets arm and threw him at the gargoyle who screeched as the puppet was flung into him.
The leg suddenly ripped off and trapped the gargoyle under him, Galvan took off towards the woods and kept running trying to get the shackles off. He had the first one off his wrist when an arrow narrowly missed his head.
He didn’t look back but guessed it was the driver or one of the puppets he just ran as fast as he could, he should have run faster. He was suddenly tackled and pinned a knife to the back of his neck.
“My lord you can run fast even with those chains on you.” It was the driver who had quickly caught up and was now lifting him up, “let’s not do that again or I might not miss next time.”
They quickly walked back to the cart were Rouen sat glaring. He was thrown into the bed of the cart were he finally got a look at the drivers arms which were covered in symbols. Several were glowing dimly, Krampus had once told him about this as a form of magic called arcane bond.
The gargoyle walked over to Galvan and planted his stubby leg on his head “little runt I swear if you run like that again ill pummel you.” Galvan cowered as the man slapped a pair of strange cuffs on his wrists, the gargoyle sighed, “we had gone easy on you but we can’t take any more chances so we will have to do this, run 20 feet from us it zaps you.”
The man pulled the horses toward the road and started off again with a faster pace, the last of the strange men stared at him while he sat, its eyes were buttons but they seemed more. He decides to speak praying it didn’t get him killed “what are they.”
The gargoyle Rouen looked back annoyed, “there flesh puppets, they have the body of a puppet but the bound souls of normal people, that’s another reason to not run if you do this girl takes you down.”
I looked back at the demon puppet thing, a human soul, but how why. Who in this world would make such horrible creatures? And why had they been sent with these two thugs been sent to capture me.
Krampus passed impatiently along the marble floor of the temple, Megaera stood watching him. Worry for her longtime friend hung to her face, they waited for her master, who was late.
Krampus looked out through the entrance, “were is he, why is he taking so long.”
Megaera remained silent but wondered why indeed her master was still absent for such a dangerous matter. Then there he was the sound of his horse riding up and to the door with her sisters close behind.
Through the doors came a large horse that towered over them and upon it was the man of the hour, Malus. He wore a cloak of dragon scales, his skin white as snow his hair well there was none, and his eyes like burning coals.
“He swung off his horse as Alecto and Tisiphone flew in after him. He landed with a loud thud and strode over to Krampus, “Krampus dear friend it is good to see you, I wish only it was under...”
He couldn’t finish as Krampus sent him flying through the air “dame you Malus do not patronize me, do not presume to be my friend that I have come to you to beg for your help. I come because of the fact of what you have decided and what would seem that others, darker others, have as well.”
Malus stood laughing, “Well I’m glad you haven’t lost your touch, but need to calm yourself so we may speak of the dire matter at hand.” He looked at Krampus his eyes filled with power. “now we all now know that this boy may very well be ghe’ ‘or SIQ which if are old friend truly is behind this then we have a large problem.
Krampus strode over and put a finger in his face “there is no evidence of it, Galvan is not ghe’ ‘or SIQ, there’s no way the sword was destroyed a million years ago by yourself did you not.”
Malus smacked his finger away and continued “yes, yes indeed I did but there was always the uncertainty that it had somehow survived and sadly this seem more and more likely.”
Krampus grew patience had run completely dry “by the seven divines you fool this is no time for wondering, this is the time to get Galvan we must find him. If we find him and protect him we can avoid all of this, so help me or stay out of my way.”
Malus sighed his anger for now in check, “that is not true we need to find the sword, and if you decide to ignore my order I will be forced to take unpleasant measures to insure your obedience. If we find the sword, I’ll be more then obliged to help in the search for this boy.”
Krampus flecked his claws reciting the urge to slash out at the demon but instead took to his knee, “yes my lord, thank you.” He stood and strode out Megaera tried to stop him but shouldered her off. He would play along if he didn’t he would never find Galvan it was a necessary evil.
Ch. 4 saved by the swords of the east
We had stopped in a small town were we get some more supplies and rest. I was still shackled a cloak hid them from the view of any around, the driver sat across from me glaring. Rouen and the puppet had stayed with the cart, so it was just me, the driver, and the other people in the bar.
The driver’s eye had an outline of thorns which was glowing, Galvan didn’t know what it did and didn’t want to find out. He had removed the chain but left on the bands themselves, so that the two didn’t look suspicious.
A small plump woman in a large dress rushed over smiling, “what can I get ye to find gents on this brisk night Ron’s got a stew a brewing if ye like some. Though I’d suggest it with a bit of salt or rum it’s a little well you’ll see.” She stood smiling as the driver took out his pouch.
He handed over some coins, “will have two bowls, I’ll get a rum. We also will need a room were staying the night.” She nodded and headed to the kitchen. The driver turned his gaze back to me.
We sat until the women returned with the bottle and key, a toddler trailed close behind her this time. She had scraggly hair that hung around her head, “oh come now sweet you don’t need to cling to me like a burr, hear ye go Ron’s almost done with the stew and I’ll get it out to ye.” The driver nodded and shoved the key in his pocket.” The women trailed off to the kitchen the girl scurrying after her.
The driver reached into his cloak and took a swig of the alcohol, he sat for a second then grimaced in pain. I could see liquid pooling out of his side, I could see it was the alcohol pouring out from a gash in side that had been poorly dressed and looked as though it was infected.
The driver saw him starring and flipped his cloak over it and snarled, “It’s rude to stare, didn’t the old beast teach you that or did he just teach to be annoying.” Galvan looked down at the table.
Suddenly the door burst open a bunch of men and young women walked in laughing and howling. They wore light leather armor with the emblem of some school Krampus had mentioned. One walked up to the counter a raped on it. “Hey! We need several rooms out here a meal fit for Kamayurá head watcher, when the old geezer gets here.” This raised several shouts and chuckles from the group.
The women came out handed the man four keys, “well look who’s back done with the festival are ye.” She pointed to three tables which they pushed together and sat talking and laughing.
The driver frowned “this place just keeps getting better doesn’t it.” He took another swig groaning.
They sat the driver taking a couple drinks snarling in pain and taking another. Galvan remained silent hoping to avoid any more conflict with the strange man. He suddenly felt the awkward sense of being watched, he looked at the driver who was still drinking then glanced around.
He couldn’t see anyone really but it was a strong feeling, then he looked towards the group. Sitting around the back not talking was a girl no younger them him staring directly at him she had dark brown hair, and pale skin, an inquisitive look held in her eyes. He looked back down and saw she could plainly see the strange bindings. He pushed the cloak over them and looked back. She glanced at the driver and back at me, I prayed for help, silently begged but she moved into the group out of sight.
The driver shifted up as the women came over with two steaming bowls, “there ye go gents I hope ye enjoy.” She strolled off, to the kitchen. The driver quickly began to eat surprising Galvan.
The driver glanced up, “come on eat, just because of the factors of this day doesn’t mean I’m going to starve you.” Galvan stared at him but began to eat.
He suddenly noticed the girl was back but with a taller gentleman with slightly thicker armor and was nodding at them talking to him. He continued to eat slowly glancing as they talked the man nodded and they moved back into the crowed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He didn’t see either again and lost hope as the driver walked him to the room. The room was small with two beds. The driver had locked him to the bed post and ordered him to go to sleep before crawling in his bed himself.
The room had very little in it, a water mason sat in the corner, the window rattled slightly as wind blew outside. The strange magical shackle on Galvan’s wrist pulsated slightly, the symbols seemed to move as Galvan examined it determined to find a way to get them off.
He examined the small key hole, the driver had left it with his puppet, so he couldn’t get it but maybe he could try to pick it or pull something out, poke some stuff and force them open. But with what there was nothing small enough to get in the hole. What could he use, he looked around him for anything, then he remembered the strange metal piece he had found, he slowly looked through his pockets trying to not wake the driver.
He pulled it out of his pocket and looked at it. Earlier it had looked to be of bronze but now Galvan was unsure because it looked darker but the symbols looked like they had been painted red. It seemed to hum in his hands, he put it in the lock and tried to move it around but it could only jest fit in the hole.
He pulled it out and looked at the piece of metal in his hands. His anger surged and he tried to through it, but it wouldn’t leave his hand it just stuck. He looked at it trying to pull it off but it wouldn’t come off, it was like it had been imbedded into his hand.
Suddenly it grew warm and the symbols came to life glowing brightly moving around. He suddenly heard speaking, “'ay' mev, puqloD mev.” He suddenly saw a flash of light and he was in the strange lavished room from when he had first found the piece.
He heard the door fly open and rushed in the old women with the sword he had seen. “I saw this coming, I warned you all!” she rushed to the window and swung it open she pulled the curtain down whistled loudly and began to rap the sword in the curtains.
Galvan walked up and looked at the sword, it had the same symbols as the piece, she covered it quickly though, as a large hawk flew in. “oh my old friend I must call up a final favor, take this sword and hide it let none find it, protect it with your life.” The hawk took it in its talons and took off at surprising speed.
She spun around as something slammed into the door it bulged but held, she rushed to the wall and pushed on a brick which then slid out to reveal two swords. She grabbed one and slid it back into place, the door bulged again cracking as it was struck again. She held the sword at the ready in front of herself ready.
The door suddenly exploded into splinters and out spilled tons of smoke, flowing in slowly coming closer. “My, my Rubella are you still alive after all these years.” The voice was cold and unnatural. Galvan strained to see the speaker but everything was fading, he heard the old women yell as his vision went dark.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Galvan’s eyes flew open he was back in the bed a shackle on his wrist a sliver of metal in his hand. He breathed heavily, the voice that had come from the smoke was burned into his mind and rung loud and clear making him shudder.
He suddenly heard a creak from the door as it slowly swung open. Galvan didn’t move the hall was empty. Suddenly he saw the head of the girl peak around the door frame she, looked at Galvan then at the driver who was snoring softly.
She put a finger to her lips and slowly moved towards the bed, when she reached it she motioned for Galvan’s hand, he hesitated but let her take it. She pulled a strange marble from her pocket and placed it over the key hole. It suddenly slipped through the hole, it clinked for a second and then he saw several spikes extruded from the sides breaking the lock.
The shackle fell from his arm and he looked as it suddenly began to dissolve. He looked at the girl as she motioned for him to follow, they quickly moved through the door and down the stairs were the man stood looking quite anxious. “Did it work?” He quickly moved to the door his voice was very rough and sounded strained.
She walked over, “obviously or we wouldn’t be here, everyone ready to go.” Her voice was very soft, but strangely calming. She quickly went through the door, the man motioned for Galvan to follow. It was drizzling and very cold. Down the road a cart sat with the same symbol they wore.
The man and girl hurried over Galvan began to follow when he heard something running up behind him. He spun around to see the driver’s puppet coming quickly with the gargoyle following. The puppet tackled him and pinned his head. Galvan yelled and struggled to get the puppet off, he suddenly felt a string hanging lose from the puppet as he felt around. He grabbed and pulled he felt sand pour out onto his body as the puppet fell apart.
He pulled away as the gargoyle ran up his claws sharp but the man stepped over him and cut its head off. “Hey no don’t do that I can’t move, HELP, HELP!” Galvan quickly stood and began to head for the carriage but stopped and looked at the small head.
He rushed back grabbed the head and began running as it protested, he jumped in the cart and shoved it in his pocket. The man jumped in the front and sent the horse quickly off down the road. Galvan panted as the girl whooped, “yes we did it, that actually worked.” The man shook his head and steered the horses around a fallen branch.
Galvan stared at the girl her hair whipped around as the cart bounced. Her eyes were a brilliant dark blue, they captivated Galvan’s thoughts. She turned her gaze towards Galvan and smiled, “so now that’s over spill who was that man why and did he have you all chained up.” She looked almost angry now and looked as though she was ready to flatten Galvan if he said the wrong thing.
Galvan stared back not knowing how to answer, and fearing the suddenly quite violent young lady, who had a just as intimidating sword sitting next to her. To Galvan’s luck the man saved him, “give him a break Catharine he’s obviously exhausted and has little clue why himself, but when we get back were going to have plenty of questions which he’s going to be delighted to try and answer.” Galvan curled up holding the gagged head of the gargoyle and wondered where they were going as they rolled quickly down the dirt road.
Ch.7 who am I?
Galvan sat up he was in a small room, his dirty clothes were gone replaced with a soft cotton shirt and pair of trousers. The bed had red sheets that were seemed old and warn. The room was of stone with nothing on the walls.
By the bed was his bag which was moving slightly, Galvan moved out of the bed slowly and went over. Opening it he saw his clothing and the book but also he saw the cloak he had received which was moving around.
He lifted it out and parted the cloth and was met by the yelling of a stone head, “air! Oh beautiful air!” it yelled loudly as Galvan stared at the head of one of his captures. “Oh wait it’s you dang id hoped it was the other guy, were are we.” He pulled the cloak over its head which was received with more yelling.
I shoved the head back into my bag, picked the bag up and hurried to the door. Galvan pushed the door open a crack and looked out. There was a long stone hallway with many tapestries, but from what he could see it was empty. He moved out into the hallway heading towards another door he moved up to it and put his ear against it.
He began to open it until he heard voices coming towards the door he stopped moving. They came closer and closer they were speaking in a foreign language but quickly passed by. Galvan sighed relived until he heard her. “What you doing there. “
He quickly spun around swing at the person behind him. Galvan didn’t stand a chance as he was they dodged under and punched him right in the jaw. He fell backwards against the door with a loud thud. “Well that wasn’t very nice, especially from the person who just saved you.” The girl from the previous night stood over him she wore a leather riding pants and cotton shirt a sword was strapped to her side.
Galvan glared at her smiling face, “maybe you shouldn’t sneak up on people.”
She nodded regarding Galvan as he began to stand. “Ouch, sorry for nocking you down, my name is Hannah you are.”
Galvan straitened himself and looked her in the eyes, “Galvan where am I.”
She looked a little surprised,” the village of Dena at the east battle school. I’d thought you guess that from the emblem that’s all over the place.”
Galvan felt more confused, Krampus had munched a series of schools for each cardinal direction each covering a different thing. But the east was hundreds of miles from where they lived, on an island another few hundred miles from main land. “How long have I been asleep?”
Hannah bit her lip, “about two weeks you had a pretty nasty fever going, mumbling in your sleep, couldn’t keep anything down. The doc thought you were going to bite the dust. But low and behold here you are.” Galvan became dizzy, for two weeks he had been asleep.
A man came rushing up behind her, “oh dear he is indeed up, thank you Hannah for finding him I’d think the head master would like to see him immediately.” Hannah stepped aside as the man abruptly began leading Galvan the other way.
He pulled him up a flight of stairs until they came to a door and went through. On the other side were many young men dressed in leather uniforms with the school’s emblem on their arms. Everyone turned towards him as the man lead him through the crowd, many pointed and whispered.
They continued to an oak door which the man pushed open, inside was large desk. At it sat a rather old man surrounded by six men each dressed in different uniforms, one was the man that had saved Galvan.
The man at the desk sat up and looked at galvanic, “um gentlemen we will need to continue this later for now I must ask you to leave, except Enroth and Luneburg.” All but the two left. The man from the night of Galvan’s rescue wore a set of light armor. The other man was rather short but very broad. He looked almost like a human wall, his bald head looked as though it had been burned recently.
The man at the desk smiled brightly and looked Galvan up and down for a second, “so you’re the young man my two students rescued from this strange man. The gentlemen here who helped in your rescue is Enroth and the man over here is Luneburg. May I ask your name?”
Galvan looked at the man who smile was rather unnerving and made Galvan shiver, “my name is Galvan, sir” the man nodded.
“Were are you from?”
Galvan gulped what should he say, that he was from the mountains in which Krampus was rumored to live. He had no idea how they might react. “I’m sorry, sir but I don’t know.”
The man’s thin eyebrow rose, he looked at Enroth. “Well in any case I need to ask why had you been taken prisoner by the man, you wouldn’t happen to know his name would you?”
“No, sir all I know was he used magic, and I don’t know why he took me.” He looked at the man named Enroth he had a skeptical look.
The man stood and turned to the window behind him, “interesting I wonder what he wanted. Well in any case it would seem you are currently safe, and I insist until you are fully healed or at least confirmed to be healed should stay here at the school.”
Galvan bowed, “thank you sir, if I can be of assistance to repay you I would be more than happy to.”
The man smiled and nodded “well I don’t think there’s much to be done most of the students help out with any major chores, but the hostler could use some help with the horses later. Until then feel free to walk about unless the doctor says otherwise.” Galvan was quickly ushered out by the bald man.
He stood in a now empty hallway, he went down a few staircases passing few people, until he reached a secluded courtyard. He pulled up the flap on the bag. The head of the gargoyle laid face down.
He slowly picked it up. It made no sound, its eyes were shut, its tong hung out. Suddenly it burst to life scaring Galvan into dropping it. “Ha-ha freedom see you later kid.”
Hannah walked out into the court yard and picked up the head. “And trapped right, better not lose that he’ll be a good source of info.” She chucked it back to Galvan.
“Thanks, are you following me?” Galvan watched her closely as he held the wining head.
She flopped down in front of him, “yea sorry I was a little curious and worried.” She reached into her pocket and pulled a small cloth which she was using to hold the strange shard he had found on the hen. “You dropped when they were bringing you in.” She handed it to him, “what is it?”
“I don’t know I found it in the cave.” He starred at it, “before they grabbed me.”
He breathed heavily, this might not be happening if he had known how to fight but when he had asked Krampus, the old beast had refused. If he hadn’t been so defenseless maybe he could have escaped back to Krampus.
He hated feeling defenseless and now he was surrounded by people who were trained for combat getting home felt impossible. The thought of never seeing Krampus hurt like a knife slashing through him. He needed to learn to fight to get back to Krampus.
“Hey are you ok.” Hannah was staring at him with a concerned look, he realized he had started to cry.
“Do you think I could learn to fight, like you and Enroth? I need to learn; I can’t pay but.” He breathed in. “I need to learn please.”
She looked a little surprised, “I mean I guess the, you’d have to talk to the headmaster but I don’t think he would have anything against it.” She smiled and stood, “come on.”
Ch.8 what has to come to pass
Krampus stood over a man the symbols on his body grew dark, his puppets laid ripped to shreds on the ground. The smell of Galvan was rather fresh; he was the captor but he knew nothing of where he was, or why he had taken him.
He stormed off towards the town were the man had lost Galvan. He had gone back to the battlefield to look for the sword but had not found it. But the signs that the old thing was back was everywhere. From the air to the fact that the area was now a barren waste land.
Someone had taken the fragments and now was running around with one of the deadliest weapons in the world. Their intentions were unclear, that made them much deadlier.
And it didn’t seem a coincidence that Galvan got kidnapped at the same time. He rubbed his eyes, ghe’ ‘or SIQ could he truly be ghe’ ‘or SIQ. He couldn’t accept it in his heart but in his mind he knew the evidence was building and would soon become undeniable.
The tight leather chest plate was light over his white long sleeved shirt, the shirt was very soft a comfortable the pants and shoes not so much.
“Are these necessary?” he tried to move the shoes around to make them comfortable, but they were so tight they could barely move.
Hannah sighed, “yeah the whole uniform has a point, shoes help to keep from slipping, the pants really I have no clue.” She walked over to him and tightened the straps on his leather chest plate.
Enroth walked in a wood broadsword in hand, “ready?”
Galvan took a deep breath and nodded. Only two days ago had he asked the headmaster to allow him onto the school and the following morning he had an acceptance letter on his bed, he then preceded to go through the incisions, fitting, and other essentials.
He was now to be tested on his skill as a fighter, this is what worried Galvan the fact was he had no previous combat skills due to Krampus’s constant disliking of violence.
He was led out into a small room with dirt floor, and wood walls, the sealing was open to the bright blue sky, in the center stood a tall man with wood armor and sword. Along the side stood 10 men each watched him carefully each a head of one of the classes they would decide if they would teach him the ways of the sword, if they deemed him good enough.
Enroth gave him a nudge towards the man, Galvan shook a little at the sight of the man a quarter size bigger then him. He couldn’t think of being able to fight him, one thing kept his head from falling and admitting defeat, this guy was a quarter size smaller then Krampus, and beating this guy was his only way of finding him.
He raised his sword, the man did the same. He charged forward and hit at the man who quickly blocked, then swung narrowly missing Galvan. For next two minutes he dogged and parried, the man was clearly much stronger and more skilled then him.
Then a burst of power almost rushed through him and he was ready, it wasn’t anger or skill that followed a feeling of almost survival instinct but a calm peace.
He took a deep breath and lunged forward, the man swung to hit him, but found him suddenly diving under quickly, he swung slamming into the man’s armor then slammed his elbow in to knock him off balance, he swung his word up hitting his face knocked his knee hard and kicked the man back onto his bottom.
The masters clapped then started talking among themselves; Enroth stepped over and patted him on the shoulder. However, something was strange, his hand burned and when he looked, the reason was clear. The strange sliver of metal that he had found was in his hand, he had not even realized he had taken, it glowed red hot symbols glowing green.
One of the gentlemen stood, “we have decided that I will take him,” he smiled at Galvan his hair was straight back, his long white robe swung as he walked up to shake Galvan’s hand, “my name is Gordon, it’s nice to meet you Galvan.”
Galvan smiled, had he really done it completed the trial that easily, “thank you sir.”
Master Gordon smiled, “training starts tomorrow, but I must ask where did you learn to fight like that?”
Galvan furrowed his brow, “like what?”
Master Gordon scratched his bearded, “never mind we will talk tomorrow, have a good day.”
Hannah walked up, “what on earth, I thought you said you couldn’t fight, and you suddenly start attacking knocking him down in seconds, what are you?”
He smiled at her, “I don’t know, I’ve never even held a real sword.”
After that Enroth took them into the small town and treated them to a delicious meal, afterwards Galvan had returned to his room his head hurt badly as he laid down on the mattress. He felt the small metal in his hand, it hadn’t left his hand since they had left.
He stared at the symbols they were like nothing heed ever seen and the metal wasn’t iron or steel he couldn’t figure out what it was. He through it next to his bag and sighed.
Finally, exhaustion took him away, away to something he wished never to see.
Galvan felt his hand being tugged as he saw the large lake, water glistened under the moon, and he looked down at his hand a small girl was pulling it. She pulled him towards the water, her strength frightening.
Suddenly from behind someone started pushing him, the little girl began to sing a song in another language. His foot touched the cold water, he tried to struggle, he could see the water was terrifyingly deep, as he was pulled into the depths.
From the depths he saw something surging up towards him, he struggled when hands suddenly reached up grabbing him pulling him into the depths, the water bulged as a hand of smoke burst forth plunging his head under.
A voice rang out, “welcome little fool, you really think you can defeat me with that, not even he could,” his eyes fell on the chained silhouette of Krampus, “or any of them,” the chained bodies of many demons and people swayed under rapped in chains, he felt metal clamp to his limbs, “and you shall follow their example little hunter,” two giant red eyes appeared staring at him smoke surged towards him pushing Galvan deeper, some forming into chains.
His scream was muffled as the water surged into his throat, his eyes flew open to see Enroth holding him down, and several other man helped him.
He was soaked in sweat his arms hurt from the men’s grip, “what just.”
Enroth motioned the others back, he saw Hannah in the door her face filled with terror.
“Galvan are you ok?” Enroth placed his arm on his shoulder.
Galvan shook his head, his hand burned opening it he saw the metal sliver but it was longer, and its symbols where dark red. He closed his hand, “I don’t know.”
Ch.1 the boy and the monster
The sound of a screaming child breaks the night. A monster sits within the branches thinking of how the winter had come and gone so quickly like every year and now he would retreat to his cave. He was Krampus, the ancient demon of the night, the boogie man punishing the cruel. He groaned, years of age burdened him greatly and he wished. He wished many things, his job to end, for a meal that was not stale meat and grimy water.
He groaned again and jumped from his perch, he gathered up his wool cloak and rapped it tightly around himself. His pale skin, cold as ice, scared from those who dared challenge him creaked like the trees around him. The hooves fleck with dried blood from various things. His large horns brush against the lowest branches of the trees as he began to walk north, another winter gone many more to come.
Behind him a twig snapped, he spun around his cloak picking up snow and flinging it around. Five feet behind him was a small boy, who had somehow snuck up on him, in a small leather coat worn with age, inappropriate for the weather of the night.
“It is not smart to sneak up on me" he said. The boy, with black shaggy hair only four years of age at least, only blinked with curious eyes.
"It is not polite to stare at people either." The boy remained silent unmoving. "What is wrong with you do you not know who I am?" The boy shook his head, Krampus smiled.
His cloak fell “I am the punisher of evil, the monster of children in the night, I AM KRAMPUS THE ANCIENT ONE." He roared into the boy's face who was now only inches away. Krampus eyes glowed bright in the night which was lit only by the moonlight, his claws and horns glistened.
The boy seemed shocked by his display but far from the screams of extreme terror he was used to.
"Why do you not scream and cry in fear I am KRAMPUS do you not fear, fear itself you fool." The boy only stared "what trick is this, what are you, why do you not fear me."
The boy finally spoke "why must I fear you."
Krampus was shocked by the question "I am Krampus you fool. That is why, the name itself should be enough reason, I am fear, I am a demon, and I am hell spawn."
The boy stared for a bit "you just look like an old man with big horns who thinks he must be mean." Krampus was greatly surprised by the boys comment, and stood dumbfounded.
In the distance there was a howl of wolf, the boy yelped and ran to Krampus hugging him tightly. Krampus was so surprised he knew not what to do, but he quickly got over his shock.
He shoved the boy away "do not touch me." He grabbed up his cloak and threw it on "I leave you to the wolves, now hurry to your parents or you will be torn to shreds and eaten."
He began to walk away while the boy shivered with fear and said quietly "I have none." Krampus was quite shocked by the boys comment "what do you mean of course you have parents." The boy shook his head "I just woke up over there."
Krampus scrunched his brow it did seem strange he had gotten so close but where were his parents "um then go that way there's a village of people that will help you." He began to walk away and thought, why had the boy not fear him and even more his warm embrace of the demon.
He had never had this feeling so small but so strong and strange. He was at least three miles away when he heard the howls of wolves and the boy screaming for his help. He spun around in the distance he could see the boy had been surrounded by wolves.
He turned around and began repeating three words "don't go back" over and over. He stopped and grimaced "curse you Krampus" he muttered.
He spun around his cloak flying off & charged back chasing off the wolves with a single roar. The wolves ran tails between their legs, yelping with fear. The boy rushed up hugging him begging to let him come with Krampus and that he not leave him.
Krampus glared at him ready to shove the small boy away when he decided.
Ch.2 new day
Four years later
The snow fell heavy on Krampus’s heavy wool cloak as strutted through the deep snow. A nicely plump mountain goat was flung over his shoulder. It was the night before the winter solstice and then he would be forced to replay his yearly routine.
Ahead loomed a large cave with teeth of stalagmites. Its inside filled with seemingly infinite darkness. He smiled “home sweet home.”
The inside was musty and damp, the bats that lined the ceiling chattered nervously as Krampus walked under them. He continued down a tunnel that lead to several forks until he came to a poorly lit cavern.
At the back was a large oak door, he walked to it removing a black iron key from the folds of his cloak and inserting it in the lock. The door shuttered as he pushed it open. He stepped in to another dark tunnel he closed the door and waited till he was sure its large bolts and locks slid shut.
He sighed. “Home at last” he pulled off his cloak and threw it on to a statue of a gargoyle. He walked into the inner chamber that was unusually dark. He walked over to the fire pit filled with large logs, laid the goat to the side and grabbed the flint.
He scratched it on his claws sending sparks flying that quickly caught the large logs into a blaze. He sighed and looked around the cavern that held two beds. A table three chairs and a shelf with many treasures he had gathered through the years. Another tunnel lead off to a store room.
He looked towards the small bed that was empty, and the rest of the room was empty as well. He smiled “where are you little runt” he spun around, looking for Galvan.
Then he heard it above on the ledges that were higher up in the chamber. His grin widened, the giggling and shuffling. Backing up a little to make sure when he jumped he wouldn’t smack onto the ground. And there it was.
“ARGHHHH” Krampus felt the sudden wait of the small boy slam into his back. The boy, Galvan, clambered to keep from falling onto the ground, laughing as Krampus attempted to grab him.
After wriggling to get ahold, he grabbed a foot and swung the boy in front of him struggling to keep the boy from falling. The boy laughed loudly as Krampus held him up in front of him. Krampus waited till he stopped struggling till he put the boy down.
“I almost had you didn’t I, right?” he said smiling as he crawled into a chair. “I’ve been planning since you left looking for the best place to get you.”
Krampus cackled as he lifted the goat onto the table, “you sure surprised me, could you hand me the knife, you need to learn to not laugh while sneaking up on someone especially someone with some of the best hearing around, thank you, but did you get your chores done.” He said with a questioning look.
Galvan nodded “yep I skinned those two goat and that young yak you brought yesterday, I swept up, and organized the store room the best I could.” He picked up a needle and started threading a string through it. “I was going to sew up all the holes on your cloak if you don’t mind.”
Krampus only nodded as he began to skin the goat. He was thinking about his departure the next night. What he would do for two months and his worry for Galvan. It had been four years and two months since the fateful night he decided to take Galvan with him planning to drop him off in a town near to his path, but he soon grew a liking to the young boy and had taken him under his wing.
Since then he had taught the boy skills of survival, he also taught him skills any other human would learn which proved to be quite a challenge. But it had worked out, and the boy had become a big help.
“Also the some of the hens got out somehow but I couldn’t find any holes and the door was closed but I got them all back in.” Krampus was snapped out of his thoughts and looked over. “Um good job now um let see you remember what the rules are while I’m gone right.”
He sighed “yes don’t climb up into the nest, don’t eat everything at once, don’t mess with anything on the shelf, and don’t leave unless I somehow run out of food or one of the magic items starts acting weird or talking.” He said a little annoyed having to once again go over these rules.
“And” said Krampus. Galvan sighed once more “if somebody would to happen upon the door do not open the door.” Krampus chuckled at the boy’s exasperated attitude.
“I know you hate all these rules, but you know that I have been made a villain and that this make people wish to destroy me if they find you who knows what they do” he said he picked up the hide he had just cut clean of and looked at it “this would be nice for a new layer on my cloak, the old thing may not have much time on it but I can make it last at least.”
Galvan sat up “but in all the time I’ve been living with you I not once have ever heard of anyone entering or even coming near the cave, and doubt anyone can find it.” Krampus only shook his head and flipped the yak over and continued to work.
They worked in silence besides them asking for items or Krampus giving Galvan more tasks. This was most nights in there humble little hole that served as their home. This would also be the case till the next night after Krampus returned with last of the supplies Galvan would need and the Krampus would depart on his yearly tradition.
Galvan sat finishing up the job of sewing up Krampus’s cloak. Krampus entered holding one of the hens that they kept for eggs. It sat in his paw cooing as he stroked it gently “this little thing got out somehow and I can’t figure out how, the latch is on tight and there’s no holes.”
Galvan looked up at the hen “that’s one of the ones that got out last time just like I told you.” Krampus wrinkled his brow deep in though as he sat in his chair the hen picking at his fingers trying to get him to keep petting him.
“Done” Krampus snapped out of his little trance that Galvan commonly saw him enter, just thinking as Krampus had once told him when he was younger. He held up the finished cloak that he’d been working on since Krampus had left that afternoon.
“Thank you boy this will do nicely, did you get my bag all packed” he took the cloak and handed Galvan the hen, “yes every things there.” He patted the annoyed hen as Krampus slipped on his cloak. “thank you well then I will be off you remember the rules of course remember to keep up with your studies, chores and …” as he said this from the store room three more hen came walking out, “and figure out how they keep getting out, for Belo’s sake.”
He threw his cloak over his scared white back. Galvan stared at the many scars that littered his back. Each one a story, each one a battle, each one a death. A year ago he had gotten several new ones when a band of mercenary hired to kill him had attacked and failed. Some were still red from poison that had been added to the blades.
They had caused him great pain but had ended up healing. But now they were a constant pain one had opened back up a week ago, if wasn’t for Krampus miraculous ability to heal from such wounds so quickly he might not have survived.
He pulled the mysterious key that seemed to vanish whenever it entered his cloak. They walked towards the door and Krampus inserted the black iron key into the lock, unlocking the door. They waited until all the bolts and bars that held the large door shut were unbolted and raised. The cold air from outside quickly rushed in causing Galvan to shiver, but it seem to rejuvenate Krampus make him stronger ready for the night.
The hen scrambled out into the dark cavern which they were rarely aloud to enter. Galvan scrambled to gather them back inside while Krampus looked at something in his hand. When Galvan had ushered the hen back inside he spoke.
“Galvan it has been four years since you stepped under my wing and you are the age of eight now at most, I believe its time you had this.” He took the item from his hand and handed it to Galvan. It was a smaller version of Krampus key and made of silver. It shined brightly in the dark.
“It will help you find your way home if you are ever forced to leave, it will glow brighter as it gets closer to the lock and will of course unlock the door.” Galvan stared in aww, he had never seen any other key to the door except for Krampus’s key. It was surprisingly heavy for such a small key, it had several strange markings on it.
“Thank you, were did it come from though besides your key I’ve never seen another for the door?” he looked at Krampus who was stroking his chin.
He sighed and finally spoke “I’m sorry boy there is so much I have yet to tell you about me and I will explain much of it upon my return please be patient.” He hugged the boy tight “I now must depart good bye.” With that he strode out the entrance of the cavern without making a word and melted into the darkness like ice.
Galvan sighed and pulled the door shut “good bye.” He then presided to usher the hen back into their pen.
He thought deeply trying his best to remember the night he has met Krampus but as it had been for many years he could remember little of the night. It was a blur he remembered only Krampus taking out the black key and opening the door to his home years ago.
Back then it had been a dark musty pit, which had been almost unlivable for a human child which Krampus at spent much time making it a cozy little home. He sighed and looked around, he grabbed two books from the collection under his bed and walked over to the wall were he began climbing up to a small hole in the sealing.
Once he reached the hole and climbed in, he rummaged around the pile of books looking for the matches. When he found them he lit one and walked towards a large crystal jutting from the wall he closed on eye and aimed. He then threw the match at crystal square on the tip and was instantly out.
Galvan waited several seconds before the crystal lit up in a brilliant glow. He had no clue how the crystal did it but whenever fire would touch it the crystal would absorb it and begin to glow. Galvan turned and walked over to a small pile of books and placed one of the books on it. He then sat down and began to read.
This for the next few months would be how Galvan would spend his time, reading book after book. The room was filled with books that Galvan had read, many he had not, each one a legend a story that Krampus had collected over the many years. They were of knights, monsters, continents, history, and gods. A few had Krampus in them, but when Galvan read something about Krampus it was always how he should be feared and what to do to avoid him coming to your home.
Galvan despised it, Krampus wasn’t a completely horrible, bloodthirsty monster by heart, and it was his job. More of a curse given to him before his creation. Everyone hated him he didn’t get a choice whatever that meant.
He sat there under the dimming glow of the crystal, his mind drifting to other worlds. His eyes fluttered shut and he was asleep. Little did he know he was not alone in the shadow of the door way was silhouette of the little winged stone monster.
It chuckled “well, well Krampus my dear old friend its true your gone soft, well I can’t blame you. Sleep well little amigo we will meet very soon, very soon indeed.” The small creature slipped away into the dark chuckling to its self.
Ch. 3 old friends in the night
Overlooking the village of Valgan was a small cliff that cast a shadow over the small valley. Upon this cliff sat what the villagers called the dream reaper, this name was why Krampus always tried to reach the fastest.
The town was made up of the purest of dreamers Krampus loved it, so much to play with it made him almost giddy, or as close as a demon monster could get. But as every year the fun ended too soon. Guards ran around looking for him like little ants in a maze. He chuckled remembering the maze of books Galvan had made for the hen when he was younger.
The bells rang three times, he sighed it was time to depart from this wonderland of nightmares. He gathered up his cloak and began to walk briskly towards the town at the bottom of the Walled Mountains. He walked through the thick forest. Animals all around ran to avoid Krampus, bird’s chattered nervously overhead fearing he may attack.
He sighed fear that was his greatest weapon, and a wall that till the night he had met Galvan could not be broken. The boy had shown no fear, he had seen grown men, and the strongest of warrior, and their strength leave them a cowering mess with one glance from Krampus’s dark eyes. But not Galvan he had not even let out a whimper at an act that left all before crying for mercy. This why he had grown to love the boy so dearly.
Krampus was snapped out of his thoughts by a feeling. He groaned it was an all too familiar feeling. He turned around and looked up into the trees. Above hanging on a branch was the carcass of deer dangling lifeless. He growled this was a sign, a sign that meant they were near.
He recedes into the shadows and watched the sky, for any sign of them. He waited in the shadows looking waiting for the sound of their leathery wings. But there was nothing was he over reacting, had it just been a coincidence that they had come through here. Doubtful they never did anything like that except to tell you their near.
Then he heard Tisiphone’s wicked laugh that sounded like shattering glass, “dear old Krampus you’re getting rusty in your old age.” A bony finger brushes across his horns. Krampus launches out of the shadows and spins around and looks for the black figure, but there is nothing but shadows.
“Were are you” Krampus spun around looking for the demon.
More laughter rang out “he’s gotten slower as well, were disappointed dear old Krampus” Megaera chuckles deeply, her voice like nails on a chalkboard. He spun to look at the third born sister of the furies who never could hide her self very well.
“Megaera dear sister, he can see you I hope you know” the second born Alecto stepped forth from behind a tree, here black wings stretching out behind here, here ruby eyes starred at Krampus reading every inch of his very soul.
“Of course I do, I also know that I’m absolutely hopeless at sneaking up on dear old Krampus” she flew up and landed in the tree giggling insanely, “come on big sister don’t go sneaking around he knows were here.”
A large gust of wind erupted from behind him from the deadliest of the trio, Tisiphone. Krampus sighed and turned around to face the ruby eyed hell birth. Her black fur shimmered, her talons stretched long and deadly.
Krampus growled “what in the name of the seven divines do you want Tisiphone because I’m sure this isn’t just a friendly reunion is it.”
Tisiphone sighed and rubbed her temples “Krampus old friend you have not gotten any less clever have you, no we are here on business, though I hoped that you would have been a little more pleased to see use.”
Krampus watched the sisters every move “what is it then what, what reason does the mighty Malus’s have to send his greatest minions to see little old Krampus.” Krampus stood ready for an attack, the furies were born assassins their entire structure was built to slaughter an opponent quickly and quietly. They were not messengers and even if they were acting as messengers Malus would have only needed to send one.
Alecto strode forward “Krampus our dear friend I think you know why, the boy.”
Krampus was almost shocked that they knew of Galvan’s existence but Malus had spies every were Krampus knew he would discover Galvan one day “what of the boy he is not a distraction in the least you of all people should know that Tisiphone, if I have a boy living in my home so be it or does Malus not like me...”
Megaera swooped down and landed next to Krampus “of course we do Krampus, and Malus doesn’t care if you have a human boy living with you, he thinks it may give you a little more spirt, but…” she trailed of and turned away from Krampus.
Alecto sighed “what are sister is trying to say is that no one particularly cares whether your living with someone, it’s more of what is different about the boy then other humans and if I’m not mistaken you have felt it to.”
Krampus turned rising to his full height, towering over Alecto with a terrifying rage in his eyes “Galvan is no different than any other human, and as long as I draw a breath and blood rushes through my veins you will not go near him do I make myself clear!”
Alecto stumbled backwards startled by Krampus’s sudden burst of rage, she stood speechless afraid that a single wrong word would end in her being shredded. But her sister came to her rescue.
From behind Krampus he heard Tisiphone spreading her massive wings and storming over. He spun around to face her pure rage her body seem to grow and her eyes. As they had since there birth, the sisters were always very protective of each other especially Tisiphone.
She stuck a bony finger in his face “calm down Krampus before this gets bloodier then it needs to be,” her talon extended ready to slash at Krampus if it became necessary to fight.
Krampus was about to slash out when Megaera stepped in between them “please would you two calm down and not ripe each other apart, were just here to talk, Malus wishes to know if you know.” She cowered beneath the two demons attempting to prevent a brawl that would leave both severely injured.
Krampus relaxed a little he breathed deeply then spoke “for heaven’s sake what are you talking about, Galvan is no different than you and…, I mean any other human.”
Tisiphone chuckled harshly “any mere human would not leave a trace as strong as his on any demon matter how much time you spent with them, Krampus just admit it you know something is different about him. Yes, he may be human but I believe he’s more than that, don’t tell me you didn’t notice.”
Krampus sighed Tisiphone was correct year after year Galvan seemed to get a stronger and stronger aura, Krampus had been determined to write it off as him getting older and starting to see things but he knew all too well it was much more then poor aura sight.
Krampus glared “fine yes I have started to notice a little change but it doesn’t mean anything, it’s not like he’s a horror or something else I have checked several times in m any different ways, trust me.”
Alecto spoke up but stayed back from Krampus in case he had another outburst of rage “Krampus you know he’s not normal you told the fates yourself that you thought something was off about him. The reason we are here is because we think we know what he is. Ghe’ ‘or SIQ”
Krampus turned and stared at her a look of shock and disbelief, “that’s not possible ghe’ ‘or SIQ is only a cursed myth that is far from true, and if he supposed to be like the prophecy and I have seen nothing like that.” But Krampus thought, it couldn’t be possible a boy such as him being the child.
Tisiphone stepped up and put her cold hand on his shoulder “Krampus please listen I understand you care for that boy deeply and would rather not deal with what may be the truth, but remember he may not be him, but keep watch of him.”
Tisiphone stepped back and spread here wings “we must be going Malus is expecting us soon so we must leave now, Krampus it was um nice seeing you again.” With that her and Alecto took to the skies with a single flap of their wings and headed to the east.
Only Krampus and Megaera were left alone, Megaera spoke quietly “I’m sorry but you know it may be true, but…” she wavered not knowing what to say.
Krampus smiled slightly, “good bye Megaera it was nice seeing you again, hopefully next time we meet it won’t be because Malus sent you.” Megaera nodded and sighed then took off her wings taking her off after her two older sisters.
Krampus watched her go until he could see her no more and continued on with the heavy worry of what may be a fact that was too horrible to bare, could Galvan a boy who had never once shown any form of abilities be ghe’ ‘or SIQ, he hoped silently it was wrong.
Ch.4 A nock at the door
Galvan sat in front of the small pen were the hen were held in the small storage area. The room consisted of a rack and a large bench on which held an assortment of tools. There were several crates filled with food and other supplies that would last Galvan the rest of the year.
Galvan was removing the burrs from the hen that had gotten out once more and had found its way into Krampus small medicine garden. Galvan had found it after waking up that morning having a spasm. He had proceeded to free the hen from the prickly trap of a Wacom grabber, and now pulled the prickly grabbers out of the feathers of the bird.
“How in heavens name did you even get up in there, I know you can fly a little but not that well,” the hen clucked annoyingly as another bur was pulled out of its feathers. “And how did you get out that’s what I want to know, hold still or ill pull out a feather.”
It had only been three days since Krampus had left and Galvan was already having a wicked time keeping them inside their pen. The first night Galvan had awakened to them sleeping on him. He had no clue how they got out but it was already very annoying.
Suddenly his hand brushed across a small piece of metal. The hen released a loud screech as the piece fell loose from its skin. Galvan tried to calm the hen and pushed back into the pen.
He turned around to look at the piece of metal. It was small and looked like it was bronze, it had several symbols on it. Galvan had studied many languages with Krampus even a bit of magical symbols but he had never seen these symbols.
He reached out and touched it a faced flashed before him. He screamed and lurched back the face was gone. He looked at the piece that’s symbols were now glowing, but it was still. Hesantly he reached towards it and picked it up nothing happened.
He looked at it turning it in his hands, it was very cold and smooth the symbols seemed to have been carved into it. The symbols flashed suddenly causing him to wince.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Galvan’s eyes flew open and saw a large room lavished with furnisher. A large bed laid before him it was empty except for a sword with symbols that grew brightly. “What are we” Galvan spun around to see three people two large men a short old woman, “murders that’s what by mal.” The men only shook their heads one walked over and picked up the sword it hummed.
He smiled “so be it mother.”
Suddenly the room vanished and he was on a battlefield. Bodies strewn out across the horizon, and in the middle stood a single being bundled in a cloak but something was wrong. His head turned toward Galvan, but what Galvan saw instead of a face he saw only smoke swirling.
Galvan gasped the man laughed and flew at him the sword in hand ready to strike. Galvan tried to run but was stuck in place. He screamed as he learched up from the floor of the store room.
He panted hard, what had he just seen, the piece was in his hand but was no longer ice cold but red hot he yelped as it burned his hand. He cradled it blowing on it when an arm reached around his neck.
He stopped seeing the flash of four sharp talons, “now amigo let’s not try to get away or you may find your vocal cords on the floor, we would prefer you alive but we just need your heart and blood.”
He sat completely still barley breathing as the claws slowly flexed “who are you.”
The person pulled its claws closer to his throat “shush little one my amigo will be here very shortly if he stops dallying at least.”
As if on cue a loud knock went out from the large door of the cave, “speak of the devil, grab his key and go let Lewis in.” Galvan heard something drop the floor next to him and felt a hand reach into his pocket grabbing the key. He heard the sound of something running to the door.
There was silent until the sound of the bars moving sounded through the chamber. He heard footsteps coming their way. He heard the door swing open and someone large walk in.
He heard no one but his captor did speak “what are do you mean I been waiting for you come on is the group waiting outside, good.” He heard something jump down from the work bench “get up now”
Galvan quickly got to his feet the claw still dangerously close to his neck ready to slash. “Follow me quick were on a schedule.” He turned around in front of him the man named Lewis stood a mask covered his face and he wore leather armor. The man was hunched over and his arm was a little bent.
On the ground a small gargoyle with one arm waddled towards the door. Galvan slowly followed. The gargoyle spoke quietly and his arm fell off and waddled over to Galvan’s bed grabbing his bag and began shoving clothes and a book from under his bed.
It dragged it over to Galvan and stopped. He picked it up slowly and the arm went back to the gargoyle. He continued to the door with Lewis following. They walked into the cavern were they found another man almost exactly like Lewis, but with a different mask.
It grabbed Galvan and pulled him towards the tunnel. They walk for a few minutes navigating the tunnels to the entrance they walked to the main entrance. Outside sat a wagon a two figures sat on it another creature like Lewis and a normal man who turned around and smiled.
“Well, well, well, well, well, well about time ya got here by mal ya were supposed to be here five minutes ago Rouen.” He had a sharp eastern accent that caused Galvan to shutter.
The gargoyle leaped up onto the strange man next to the driver “shut up you know why, its these cursed puppets there to easily distracted and I think you lost Boil he was supposed to be with those two and since he’s not with you I guess he ripped on a rock, their two weak see.” He gave a sharp kick to the one he sat on and a small hole opened in its arm.
A loud screech went out as the man seemed to quickly deflate until Rouen was sitting on a deflated body. Galvan stared at the strange show but said nothing. The man sighed “fine but can we get going we are on a schedule here ya know. Lewis, Nelly throw him in back and make sure he doesn’t get out.”
Lewis grabbed him and shoved him towards the cart he climbed in slowly as he saw the arm of Rouen jump of his shoulder and ran to the gargoyle. He sat on the bed of the wagon as the two puppets climbed in and the cart rolled away from Galvan’s home for which he felt he may never return to.
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Krampus ran through the village of Audis running from a guard who carried a large barbed spear. He turned into a dark ally and launched up to a balcony. The guard’s footsteps quickly approached the dead end.
Krampus chuckled the oldest trick and it still worked wonderfully without falter usually. He smiled as the brave guard hoping to slaughter the legendary demon of fear and punishment came charging into the ally sure he had cornered the scared beast but he had fallen into Krampus trap.
He stopped confused looking for were Krampus had gone he walked to the wall and felt along it pushing as Krampus crawled from his hiding place and stood in the entrance. The guard spun seeing the shadow fall upon him. He screamed in pure terror as he realized his mistake. Krampus charged forward a relished his mighty roar causing the guard to faint in fear.
Krampus stood feeling quite proud of his execution. He gathered up his fallen cloak and climbed to the roofs and began walking to the town’s edge. He hopped to get a head start to the next town so he could rest for a bit. But his stride was cut short as he saw the moon be blotted out as the figure of a fury spiraled towards him in a free fall.
Krampus saw could see it was Megaera coming towards him. She crashed into Krampus as he caught her midair. She panted hard speaking quietly “came as fast I could, fates saw it, took him, I’m sorry.”
Krampus rapped her in his cloaked “took who Megaera what are you talking about.”
She grabbed him fear filled her eyes “Del, he has him he took Galvan.”
Ch.5 run as fast as you can
Galvan sat a chain raped around his legs and arms that was connected to the leg of Lewis who hadn’t taken his eyes off him. The cave entrance had long since disappeared behind them as they rolled down the bumpy road.
The driver’s whistling was the only sound he had heard for miles. He had been already deciding that if he tried to escape that Lewis would just take a tug on the chain. If he could get it off he could maybe make a run for it.
But he hoped he would be able to get back to the cave, he had only been out a few times with Krampus but didn’t know where he was now. This was new land to him and would probably get lost.
Lewis suddenly made several creaking noises. The driver pulled the cart over to the side, “were exactly it’s not Krampus is it he supposed to be half way across the country by now right.” More creaking and the driver nodded.
He got down and led the horses over to a small clump of trees and watched the road.
“What’s happening” the said the small gargoyle Rouen, “why the heck are we stopping we have schedule.”
The driver held up his hand “keep the boy quite, Lewis heard some horses coming from up ahead well let them pass and keep moving.”
Lewis stood and came over to Galvan to put a gag in his mouth, Galvan took the chance he grabbed the puppets arm and threw him at the gargoyle who screeched as the puppet was flung into him.
The leg suddenly ripped off and trapped the gargoyle under him, Galvan took off towards the woods and kept running trying to get the shackles off. He had the first one off his wrist when an arrow narrowly missed his head.
He didn’t look back but guessed it was the driver or one of the puppets he just ran as fast as he could, he should have run faster. He was suddenly tackled and pinned a knife to the back of his neck.
“My lord you can run fast even with those chains on you.” It was the driver who had quickly caught up and was now lifting him up, “let’s not do that again or I might not miss next time.”
They quickly walked back to the cart were Rouen sat glaring. He was thrown into the bed of the cart were he finally got a look at the drivers arms which were covered in symbols. Several were glowing dimly, Krampus had once told him about this as a form of magic called arcane bond.
The gargoyle walked over to Galvan and planted his stubby leg on his head “little runt I swear if you run like that again ill pummel you.” Galvan cowered as the man slapped a pair of strange cuffs on his wrists, the gargoyle sighed, “we had gone easy on you but we can’t take any more chances so we will have to do this, run 20 feet from us it zaps you.”
The man pulled the horses toward the road and started off again with a faster pace, the last of the strange men stared at him while he sat, its eyes were buttons but they seemed more. He decides to speak praying it didn’t get him killed “what are they.”
The gargoyle Rouen looked back annoyed, “there flesh puppets, they have the body of a puppet but the bound souls of normal people, that’s another reason to not run if you do this girl takes you down.”
I looked back at the demon puppet thing, a human soul, but how why. Who in this world would make such horrible creatures? And why had they been sent with these two thugs been sent to capture me.
Krampus passed impatiently along the marble floor of the temple, Megaera stood watching him. Worry for her longtime friend hung to her face, they waited for her master, who was late.
Krampus looked out through the entrance, “were is he, why is he taking so long.”
Megaera remained silent but wondered why indeed her master was still absent for such a dangerous matter. Then there he was the sound of his horse riding up and to the door with her sisters close behind.
Through the doors came a large horse that towered over them and upon it was the man of the hour, Malus. He wore a cloak of dragon scales, his skin white as snow his hair well there was none, and his eyes like burning coals.
“He swung off his horse as Alecto and Tisiphone flew in after him. He landed with a loud thud and strode over to Krampus, “Krampus dear friend it is good to see you, I wish only it was under...”
He couldn’t finish as Krampus sent him flying through the air “dame you Malus do not patronize me, do not presume to be my friend that I have come to you to beg for your help. I come because of the fact of what you have decided and what would seem that others, darker others, have as well.”
Malus stood laughing, “Well I’m glad you haven’t lost your touch, but need to calm yourself so we may speak of the dire matter at hand.” He looked at Krampus his eyes filled with power. “now we all now know that this boy may very well be ghe’ ‘or SIQ which if are old friend truly is behind this then we have a large problem.
Krampus strode over and put a finger in his face “there is no evidence of it, Galvan is not ghe’ ‘or SIQ, there’s no way the sword was destroyed a million years ago by yourself did you not.”
Malus smacked his finger away and continued “yes, yes indeed I did but there was always the uncertainty that it had somehow survived and sadly this seem more and more likely.”
Krampus grew patience had run completely dry “by the seven divines you fool this is no time for wondering, this is the time to get Galvan we must find him. If we find him and protect him we can avoid all of this, so help me or stay out of my way.”
Malus sighed his anger for now in check, “that is not true we need to find the sword, and if you decide to ignore my order I will be forced to take unpleasant measures to insure your obedience. If we find the sword, I’ll be more then obliged to help in the search for this boy.”
Krampus flecked his claws reciting the urge to slash out at the demon but instead took to his knee, “yes my lord, thank you.” He stood and strode out Megaera tried to stop him but shouldered her off. He would play along if he didn’t he would never find Galvan it was a necessary evil.
Ch. 4 saved by the swords of the east
We had stopped in a small town were we get some more supplies and rest. I was still shackled a cloak hid them from the view of any around, the driver sat across from me glaring. Rouen and the puppet had stayed with the cart, so it was just me, the driver, and the other people in the bar.
The driver’s eye had an outline of thorns which was glowing, Galvan didn’t know what it did and didn’t want to find out. He had removed the chain but left on the bands themselves, so that the two didn’t look suspicious.
A small plump woman in a large dress rushed over smiling, “what can I get ye to find gents on this brisk night Ron’s got a stew a brewing if ye like some. Though I’d suggest it with a bit of salt or rum it’s a little well you’ll see.” She stood smiling as the driver took out his pouch.
He handed over some coins, “will have two bowls, I’ll get a rum. We also will need a room were staying the night.” She nodded and headed to the kitchen. The driver turned his gaze back to me.
We sat until the women returned with the bottle and key, a toddler trailed close behind her this time. She had scraggly hair that hung around her head, “oh come now sweet you don’t need to cling to me like a burr, hear ye go Ron’s almost done with the stew and I’ll get it out to ye.” The driver nodded and shoved the key in his pocket.” The women trailed off to the kitchen the girl scurrying after her.
The driver reached into his cloak and took a swig of the alcohol, he sat for a second then grimaced in pain. I could see liquid pooling out of his side, I could see it was the alcohol pouring out from a gash in side that had been poorly dressed and looked as though it was infected.
The driver saw him starring and flipped his cloak over it and snarled, “It’s rude to stare, didn’t the old beast teach you that or did he just teach to be annoying.” Galvan looked down at the table.
Suddenly the door burst open a bunch of men and young women walked in laughing and howling. They wore light leather armor with the emblem of some school Krampus had mentioned. One walked up to the counter a raped on it. “Hey! We need several rooms out here a meal fit for Kamayurá head watcher, when the old geezer gets here.” This raised several shouts and chuckles from the group.
The women came out handed the man four keys, “well look who’s back done with the festival are ye.” She pointed to three tables which they pushed together and sat talking and laughing.
The driver frowned “this place just keeps getting better doesn’t it.” He took another swig groaning.
They sat the driver taking a couple drinks snarling in pain and taking another. Galvan remained silent hoping to avoid any more conflict with the strange man. He suddenly felt the awkward sense of being watched, he looked at the driver who was still drinking then glanced around.
He couldn’t see anyone really but it was a strong feeling, then he looked towards the group. Sitting around the back not talking was a girl no younger them him staring directly at him she had dark brown hair, and pale skin, an inquisitive look held in her eyes. He looked back down and saw she could plainly see the strange bindings. He pushed the cloak over them and looked back. She glanced at the driver and back at me, I prayed for help, silently begged but she moved into the group out of sight.
The driver shifted up as the women came over with two steaming bowls, “there ye go gents I hope ye enjoy.” She strolled off, to the kitchen. The driver quickly began to eat surprising Galvan.
The driver glanced up, “come on eat, just because of the factors of this day doesn’t mean I’m going to starve you.” Galvan stared at him but began to eat.
He suddenly noticed the girl was back but with a taller gentleman with slightly thicker armor and was nodding at them talking to him. He continued to eat slowly glancing as they talked the man nodded and they moved back into the crowed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
He didn’t see either again and lost hope as the driver walked him to the room. The room was small with two beds. The driver had locked him to the bed post and ordered him to go to sleep before crawling in his bed himself.
The room had very little in it, a water mason sat in the corner, the window rattled slightly as wind blew outside. The strange magical shackle on Galvan’s wrist pulsated slightly, the symbols seemed to move as Galvan examined it determined to find a way to get them off.
He examined the small key hole, the driver had left it with his puppet, so he couldn’t get it but maybe he could try to pick it or pull something out, poke some stuff and force them open. But with what there was nothing small enough to get in the hole. What could he use, he looked around him for anything, then he remembered the strange metal piece he had found, he slowly looked through his pockets trying to not wake the driver.
He pulled it out of his pocket and looked at it. Earlier it had looked to be of bronze but now Galvan was unsure because it looked darker but the symbols looked like they had been painted red. It seemed to hum in his hands, he put it in the lock and tried to move it around but it could only jest fit in the hole.
He pulled it out and looked at the piece of metal in his hands. His anger surged and he tried to through it, but it wouldn’t leave his hand it just stuck. He looked at it trying to pull it off but it wouldn’t come off, it was like it had been imbedded into his hand.
Suddenly it grew warm and the symbols came to life glowing brightly moving around. He suddenly heard speaking, “'ay' mev, puqloD mev.” He suddenly saw a flash of light and he was in the strange lavished room from when he had first found the piece.
He heard the door fly open and rushed in the old women with the sword he had seen. “I saw this coming, I warned you all!” she rushed to the window and swung it open she pulled the curtain down whistled loudly and began to rap the sword in the curtains.
Galvan walked up and looked at the sword, it had the same symbols as the piece, she covered it quickly though, as a large hawk flew in. “oh my old friend I must call up a final favor, take this sword and hide it let none find it, protect it with your life.” The hawk took it in its talons and took off at surprising speed.
She spun around as something slammed into the door it bulged but held, she rushed to the wall and pushed on a brick which then slid out to reveal two swords. She grabbed one and slid it back into place, the door bulged again cracking as it was struck again. She held the sword at the ready in front of herself ready.
The door suddenly exploded into splinters and out spilled tons of smoke, flowing in slowly coming closer. “My, my Rubella are you still alive after all these years.” The voice was cold and unnatural. Galvan strained to see the speaker but everything was fading, he heard the old women yell as his vision went dark.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Galvan’s eyes flew open he was back in the bed a shackle on his wrist a sliver of metal in his hand. He breathed heavily, the voice that had come from the smoke was burned into his mind and rung loud and clear making him shudder.
He suddenly heard a creak from the door as it slowly swung open. Galvan didn’t move the hall was empty. Suddenly he saw the head of the girl peak around the door frame she, looked at Galvan then at the driver who was snoring softly.
She put a finger to her lips and slowly moved towards the bed, when she reached it she motioned for Galvan’s hand, he hesitated but let her take it. She pulled a strange marble from her pocket and placed it over the key hole. It suddenly slipped through the hole, it clinked for a second and then he saw several spikes extruded from the sides breaking the lock.
The shackle fell from his arm and he looked as it suddenly began to dissolve. He looked at the girl as she motioned for him to follow, they quickly moved through the door and down the stairs were the man stood looking quite anxious. “Did it work?” He quickly moved to the door his voice was very rough and sounded strained.
She walked over, “obviously or we wouldn’t be here, everyone ready to go.” Her voice was very soft, but strangely calming. She quickly went through the door, the man motioned for Galvan to follow. It was drizzling and very cold. Down the road a cart sat with the same symbol they wore.
The man and girl hurried over Galvan began to follow when he heard something running up behind him. He spun around to see the driver’s puppet coming quickly with the gargoyle following. The puppet tackled him and pinned his head. Galvan yelled and struggled to get the puppet off, he suddenly felt a string hanging lose from the puppet as he felt around. He grabbed and pulled he felt sand pour out onto his body as the puppet fell apart.
He pulled away as the gargoyle ran up his claws sharp but the man stepped over him and cut its head off. “Hey no don’t do that I can’t move, HELP, HELP!” Galvan quickly stood and began to head for the carriage but stopped and looked at the small head.
He rushed back grabbed the head and began running as it protested, he jumped in the cart and shoved it in his pocket. The man jumped in the front and sent the horse quickly off down the road. Galvan panted as the girl whooped, “yes we did it, that actually worked.” The man shook his head and steered the horses around a fallen branch.
Galvan stared at the girl her hair whipped around as the cart bounced. Her eyes were a brilliant dark blue, they captivated Galvan’s thoughts. She turned her gaze towards Galvan and smiled, “so now that’s over spill who was that man why and did he have you all chained up.” She looked almost angry now and looked as though she was ready to flatten Galvan if he said the wrong thing.
Galvan stared back not knowing how to answer, and fearing the suddenly quite violent young lady, who had a just as intimidating sword sitting next to her. To Galvan’s luck the man saved him, “give him a break Catharine he’s obviously exhausted and has little clue why himself, but when we get back were going to have plenty of questions which he’s going to be delighted to try and answer.” Galvan curled up holding the gagged head of the gargoyle and wondered where they were going as they rolled quickly down the dirt road.
Ch.7 who am I?
Galvan sat up he was in a small room, his dirty clothes were gone replaced with a soft cotton shirt and pair of trousers. The bed had red sheets that were seemed old and warn. The room was of stone with nothing on the walls.
By the bed was his bag which was moving slightly, Galvan moved out of the bed slowly and went over. Opening it he saw his clothing and the book but also he saw the cloak he had received which was moving around.
He lifted it out and parted the cloth and was met by the yelling of a stone head, “air! Oh beautiful air!” it yelled loudly as Galvan stared at the head of one of his captures. “Oh wait it’s you dang id hoped it was the other guy, were are we.” He pulled the cloak over its head which was received with more yelling.
I shoved the head back into my bag, picked the bag up and hurried to the door. Galvan pushed the door open a crack and looked out. There was a long stone hallway with many tapestries, but from what he could see it was empty. He moved out into the hallway heading towards another door he moved up to it and put his ear against it.
He began to open it until he heard voices coming towards the door he stopped moving. They came closer and closer they were speaking in a foreign language but quickly passed by. Galvan sighed relived until he heard her. “What you doing there. “
He quickly spun around swing at the person behind him. Galvan didn’t stand a chance as he was they dodged under and punched him right in the jaw. He fell backwards against the door with a loud thud. “Well that wasn’t very nice, especially from the person who just saved you.” The girl from the previous night stood over him she wore a leather riding pants and cotton shirt a sword was strapped to her side.
Galvan glared at her smiling face, “maybe you shouldn’t sneak up on people.”
She nodded regarding Galvan as he began to stand. “Ouch, sorry for nocking you down, my name is Hannah you are.”
Galvan straitened himself and looked her in the eyes, “Galvan where am I.”
She looked a little surprised,” the village of Dena at the east battle school. I’d thought you guess that from the emblem that’s all over the place.”
Galvan felt more confused, Krampus had munched a series of schools for each cardinal direction each covering a different thing. But the east was hundreds of miles from where they lived, on an island another few hundred miles from main land. “How long have I been asleep?”
Hannah bit her lip, “about two weeks you had a pretty nasty fever going, mumbling in your sleep, couldn’t keep anything down. The doc thought you were going to bite the dust. But low and behold here you are.” Galvan became dizzy, for two weeks he had been asleep.
A man came rushing up behind her, “oh dear he is indeed up, thank you Hannah for finding him I’d think the head master would like to see him immediately.” Hannah stepped aside as the man abruptly began leading Galvan the other way.
He pulled him up a flight of stairs until they came to a door and went through. On the other side were many young men dressed in leather uniforms with the school’s emblem on their arms. Everyone turned towards him as the man lead him through the crowd, many pointed and whispered.
They continued to an oak door which the man pushed open, inside was large desk. At it sat a rather old man surrounded by six men each dressed in different uniforms, one was the man that had saved Galvan.
The man at the desk sat up and looked at galvanic, “um gentlemen we will need to continue this later for now I must ask you to leave, except Enroth and Luneburg.” All but the two left. The man from the night of Galvan’s rescue wore a set of light armor. The other man was rather short but very broad. He looked almost like a human wall, his bald head looked as though it had been burned recently.
The man at the desk smiled brightly and looked Galvan up and down for a second, “so you’re the young man my two students rescued from this strange man. The gentlemen here who helped in your rescue is Enroth and the man over here is Luneburg. May I ask your name?”
Galvan looked at the man who smile was rather unnerving and made Galvan shiver, “my name is Galvan, sir” the man nodded.
“Were are you from?”
Galvan gulped what should he say, that he was from the mountains in which Krampus was rumored to live. He had no idea how they might react. “I’m sorry, sir but I don’t know.”
The man’s thin eyebrow rose, he looked at Enroth. “Well in any case I need to ask why had you been taken prisoner by the man, you wouldn’t happen to know his name would you?”
“No, sir all I know was he used magic, and I don’t know why he took me.” He looked at the man named Enroth he had a skeptical look.
The man stood and turned to the window behind him, “interesting I wonder what he wanted. Well in any case it would seem you are currently safe, and I insist until you are fully healed or at least confirmed to be healed should stay here at the school.”
Galvan bowed, “thank you sir, if I can be of assistance to repay you I would be more than happy to.”
The man smiled and nodded “well I don’t think there’s much to be done most of the students help out with any major chores, but the hostler could use some help with the horses later. Until then feel free to walk about unless the doctor says otherwise.” Galvan was quickly ushered out by the bald man.
He stood in a now empty hallway, he went down a few staircases passing few people, until he reached a secluded courtyard. He pulled up the flap on the bag. The head of the gargoyle laid face down.
He slowly picked it up. It made no sound, its eyes were shut, its tong hung out. Suddenly it burst to life scaring Galvan into dropping it. “Ha-ha freedom see you later kid.”
Hannah walked out into the court yard and picked up the head. “And trapped right, better not lose that he’ll be a good source of info.” She chucked it back to Galvan.
“Thanks, are you following me?” Galvan watched her closely as he held the wining head.
She flopped down in front of him, “yea sorry I was a little curious and worried.” She reached into her pocket and pulled a small cloth which she was using to hold the strange shard he had found on the hen. “You dropped when they were bringing you in.” She handed it to him, “what is it?”
“I don’t know I found it in the cave.” He starred at it, “before they grabbed me.”
He breathed heavily, this might not be happening if he had known how to fight but when he had asked Krampus, the old beast had refused. If he hadn’t been so defenseless maybe he could have escaped back to Krampus.
He hated feeling defenseless and now he was surrounded by people who were trained for combat getting home felt impossible. The thought of never seeing Krampus hurt like a knife slashing through him. He needed to learn to fight to get back to Krampus.
“Hey are you ok.” Hannah was staring at him with a concerned look, he realized he had started to cry.
“Do you think I could learn to fight, like you and Enroth? I need to learn; I can’t pay but.” He breathed in. “I need to learn please.”
She looked a little surprised, “I mean I guess the, you’d have to talk to the headmaster but I don’t think he would have anything against it.” She smiled and stood, “come on.”
Ch.8 what has to come to pass
Krampus stood over a man the symbols on his body grew dark, his puppets laid ripped to shreds on the ground. The smell of Galvan was rather fresh; he was the captor but he knew nothing of where he was, or why he had taken him.
He stormed off towards the town were the man had lost Galvan. He had gone back to the battlefield to look for the sword but had not found it. But the signs that the old thing was back was everywhere. From the air to the fact that the area was now a barren waste land.
Someone had taken the fragments and now was running around with one of the deadliest weapons in the world. Their intentions were unclear, that made them much deadlier.
And it didn’t seem a coincidence that Galvan got kidnapped at the same time. He rubbed his eyes, ghe’ ‘or SIQ could he truly be ghe’ ‘or SIQ. He couldn’t accept it in his heart but in his mind he knew the evidence was building and would soon become undeniable.
The tight leather chest plate was light over his white long sleeved shirt, the shirt was very soft a comfortable the pants and shoes not so much.
“Are these necessary?” he tried to move the shoes around to make them comfortable, but they were so tight they could barely move.
Hannah sighed, “yeah the whole uniform has a point, shoes help to keep from slipping, the pants really I have no clue.” She walked over to him and tightened the straps on his leather chest plate.
Enroth walked in a wood broadsword in hand, “ready?”
Galvan took a deep breath and nodded. Only two days ago had he asked the headmaster to allow him onto the school and the following morning he had an acceptance letter on his bed, he then preceded to go through the incisions, fitting, and other essentials.
He was now to be tested on his skill as a fighter, this is what worried Galvan the fact was he had no previous combat skills due to Krampus’s constant disliking of violence.
He was led out into a small room with dirt floor, and wood walls, the sealing was open to the bright blue sky, in the center stood a tall man with wood armor and sword. Along the side stood 10 men each watched him carefully each a head of one of the classes they would decide if they would teach him the ways of the sword, if they deemed him good enough.
Enroth gave him a nudge towards the man, Galvan shook a little at the sight of the man a quarter size bigger then him. He couldn’t think of being able to fight him, one thing kept his head from falling and admitting defeat, this guy was a quarter size smaller then Krampus, and beating this guy was his only way of finding him.
He raised his sword, the man did the same. He charged forward and hit at the man who quickly blocked, then swung narrowly missing Galvan. For next two minutes he dogged and parried, the man was clearly much stronger and more skilled then him.
Then a burst of power almost rushed through him and he was ready, it wasn’t anger or skill that followed a feeling of almost survival instinct but a calm peace.
He took a deep breath and lunged forward, the man swung to hit him, but found him suddenly diving under quickly, he swung slamming into the man’s armor then slammed his elbow in to knock him off balance, he swung his word up hitting his face knocked his knee hard and kicked the man back onto his bottom.
The masters clapped then started talking among themselves; Enroth stepped over and patted him on the shoulder. However, something was strange, his hand burned and when he looked, the reason was clear. The strange sliver of metal that he had found was in his hand, he had not even realized he had taken, it glowed red hot symbols glowing green.
One of the gentlemen stood, “we have decided that I will take him,” he smiled at Galvan his hair was straight back, his long white robe swung as he walked up to shake Galvan’s hand, “my name is Gordon, it’s nice to meet you Galvan.”
Galvan smiled, had he really done it completed the trial that easily, “thank you sir.”
Master Gordon smiled, “training starts tomorrow, but I must ask where did you learn to fight like that?”
Galvan furrowed his brow, “like what?”
Master Gordon scratched his bearded, “never mind we will talk tomorrow, have a good day.”
Hannah walked up, “what on earth, I thought you said you couldn’t fight, and you suddenly start attacking knocking him down in seconds, what are you?”
He smiled at her, “I don’t know, I’ve never even held a real sword.”
After that Enroth took them into the small town and treated them to a delicious meal, afterwards Galvan had returned to his room his head hurt badly as he laid down on the mattress. He felt the small metal in his hand, it hadn’t left his hand since they had left.
He stared at the symbols they were like nothing heed ever seen and the metal wasn’t iron or steel he couldn’t figure out what it was. He through it next to his bag and sighed.
Finally, exhaustion took him away, away to something he wished never to see.
Galvan felt his hand being tugged as he saw the large lake, water glistened under the moon, and he looked down at his hand a small girl was pulling it. She pulled him towards the water, her strength frightening.
Suddenly from behind someone started pushing him, the little girl began to sing a song in another language. His foot touched the cold water, he tried to struggle, he could see the water was terrifyingly deep, as he was pulled into the depths.
From the depths he saw something surging up towards him, he struggled when hands suddenly reached up grabbing him pulling him into the depths, the water bulged as a hand of smoke burst forth plunging his head under.
A voice rang out, “welcome little fool, you really think you can defeat me with that, not even he could,” his eyes fell on the chained silhouette of Krampus, “or any of them,” the chained bodies of many demons and people swayed under rapped in chains, he felt metal clamp to his limbs, “and you shall follow their example little hunter,” two giant red eyes appeared staring at him smoke surged towards him pushing Galvan deeper, some forming into chains.
His scream was muffled as the water surged into his throat, his eyes flew open to see Enroth holding him down, and several other man helped him.
He was soaked in sweat his arms hurt from the men’s grip, “what just.”
Enroth motioned the others back, he saw Hannah in the door her face filled with terror.
“Galvan are you ok?” Enroth placed his arm on his shoulder.
Galvan shook his head, his hand burned opening it he saw the metal sliver but it was longer, and its symbols where dark red. He closed his hand, “I don’t know.”
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