𝓢𝓸𝓷𝓰𝓼 𝓞𝓯 𝓦𝓪𝓻///𝒮𝐸𝒜𝒮𝒪𝒩 𝟤, 𝐸𝒫𝐼𝒮𝒪𝒟𝐸 𝟥

Begins at night in the middle of an attack on a farm. Zombies and skeletons are coming out of the woods. The farmers are defending themselves.

John, the eldest brother, rushes into frame. He’s holding a sword, and immediately starts attacking the zombies, killing two before Denny rushes out of the barn behind him, holding a bundle of hay. John calls out to him, still facing the horde.

JOHN

Denny! Go fetch Rusty! Hurry!

Denny looks up from the horde to John. He drops the hay and starts running, but he sees a zombie and stops.

DENNY

Ah!

A hoe is resting next to him against the barn wall. He grabs it and struggles with it for a moment. When he looks up, John has already killed the zombie. Denny gives up and runs to the small barn.

The scene cuts to more fighting by John and the rest of the farmers.

Denny reaches the barn and struggles to open it. It won’t budge so instead he decides to knock.

DENNY

Rusty! Rusty we need your help!

The door opens quickly and with a loud creak, hitting Denny and knocking him down. Rusty, the iron golem, emerges and looks around. He sees Denny and picks him up, before charging into the fray.

There is some more fighting with Rusty getting a little beat up and Denny stays on the sideline occasionally throwing rocks at the zombies.

A roar is heard, and the farmers get worried. Some undead stop and turn. Luna suddenly swoops out of the darkness and begins attacking some of the undead.

She attempts to burn a zombie again, but more sparks come out. She instead just smacks the zombie away.

The undead retreat at this point and John approaches.

JOHN

*amazed* Never in all my years did I dream I’d live to see a dragon.

Luna and Abbigail turn away from the retreating undead to face John.

JOHN

We’re grateful for you coming ma’am, but I must ask: what brings you to our humble farm?

ABBIGAIL

I’m searching for the next Enderknight- and it seems I’ve found him. Your fight against the undead was impressive.

JOHN

Me, an Enderknight? No- I can’t- I’m just a farmer. What makes you so sure?

Abbigail pulls out the Ender eye.

ABBIGAIL

Because of this. It brought me to… wait… hang on…

As Abbigail releases the Eye it drifts over towards Denny. He’s confused by it and tries to pat it away but it keeps returning back to being near him.

He notices Abbigail and John both looking at him.

DENNY

*timid* What…?

ABBIGAIL

I guess you’re the Enderknight.

Denny hops up, shocked.

DENNY

What?!

JOHN

What?!

Rusty seems surprised and his metal squeaks.

ABBIGAIL

The Ender eye has led me to you.

DENNY

But- I thought the Enderknights vanished a hundred years ago!

ABBIGAIL

They’ve returned, and I’m seeking them out. My name is Abbigail.

DENNY

I’m Denny… Denny Pinkolson.

They shake. John looks towards Luna who is close by now, and he reaches to pet her, but she keeps her distance.

JOHN

This is… a surprise… a pleasant surprise. My little brother, an Enderknight.

DENNY

But I can’t be- I’m not… anything special… I’m just…

ABBIGAIL

I understand how you’re feeling. Not so long ago I was a farmer myself before setting out on this quest.

JOHN

Well before you two go off to save the world, you should really stay the nightto rest, and you need to discuss this over with our parents.

DENNY

Oh, yes! Please come in. I think a late-night dessert is in order!

ABBIGAIL

Well, I could certainly use a good night’s sleep. Come on Luna.

The three go into the house followed by Luna. Abbigail grabs the Eye out of where it’s hovering.

Cuts to Senn in Ataraxia. He is sitting upright in bed holding his Song before him.

He suddenly stops all at once, and has an idea, but looks almost sad about it. It then cuts to him picking up his things and he walks out of the blacksmith before being stopped by Galleous from behind.

GALLEOUS

Do I not at least get a “farewell”?

SENN

Galleous!

Senn whirls around tries to protest but stutters and quickly gives up.

SENN

I… I don’t know how to explain… and I don’t think you’ll understand.

GALLEOUS

If you try to explain, I will try to understand.

Senn approaches Galleous slightly.

SENN

I appreciate all your help Galleous. You and Val both have taught me so much and asked for so little in return. But the Voltaris are out there… they’re out there right now. They slaughtered my family and killed Thalleous.

Senn looks down as he breaks off due to his emotion.

SENN

It’s useless to hide and wallow… so I’m going to fight. I’m going to join the Knights of Ardonia.

GALLEOUS

I understand very well, Senn. This is just what my brothers would have done. I would advise improving your skills first, but I will not stop you.

Galleous waits a moment.

GALLEOUS

The Knights of Ardonia have a hideout northwest of here. Follow the mountain range-you will find the inlet.

SENN

Thank you Galleous, for everything you’ve done. Thalleous would’ve been proud.

GALLEOUS

Ha! Thalleous would have chastised me for not joining you. However, I cannot let you go unarmed.

Galleous pulls out a weapon.

GALLEOUS

You have the hand of a blacksmith Senn- it is a beautiful sword and it belongs with its maker.

Galleous hands Senn his sword.

GALLEOUS

Now begone, before I change my mind about you leaving.

Senn nods, and leaves. As he’s leaving the music picks up.

He gets Timber and trots off back down the path away from Ataraxia. It shows Val standing on a nearby floating island, watching. She smiles and then flies off back to the center of Ataraxia.

Cuts to the morning, Abbigail and Denny and heading out from the farm.

Denny says his goodbye to John.

JOHN

I think you should have this now… you’ll be needing it more than myself. It’s not the prettiest… but it’s been in our family for generations.

John hands Denny his sword, which is a bit damaged but still holding together. Denny takes it and can barely lift.

DENNY

Aww, John. Are ya sure?

JOHN

Absolutely. Now go on… andbe safe out there.

Denny nods and says no more, and drags the sword behind him before pocketing it and approaching Abbigail who was waiting further ahead with Luna.

DENNY

Here Abbi, I made you some stew for the road.

ABBIGAIL

You made this for me?

DENNY

Cooked it while you were asleep! Oh, Rusty!

Denny and Abbigail see Rusty ahead intercepting them.

DENNY

Did you think I’d forget you?

Rusty leans forward and gives Denny a rose.

DENNY

You take care of the family, alright Rusty?

Rusty nods and waves to them as they leave.

DENNY

So where are we goin’?

Abbigail pulls out the Ender Eye and releases it. It begins drifting along in front of them.

ABBIGAIL

To find more Enderknights I suppose, wherever they may be.

Abbigail sips the stew.

ABBIGAIL

Mmm… Denny, this is delicious!

Denny just smiles. They walk off down the path. Luna flies by overhead. The Ender Eye continues drifting ahead.

Cuts to Tartarus. Igneous is walking into the Great Hall. He sees a giant stone stalagmite in the center full of diamonds and other precious minerals. Around him Magnorites, humans, and even a few Felina walk. There are signs of poverty, unrest, and even propaganda relating to the K’arthen-Cydonia conflict.

Igneous goes to the edge of the hall and into a tavern. He sits down at an empty table and listens to the chatter of the tavern.

He pulls out a book to “blend in,” but the nearby Magnorites just give him strange looks.

Some commotion is heard.

BORGEN

All I’m saying is that things have gotten worse around here since we closed our borders!

Borgen is walking backwards with a larger Magnorite approaching him.

MALAKAI

Worse for you… not for us Magnorites who fight to stay on top.

Borgen is backed up against a wall.

BORGEN

I- I don’t disagree with you I’m just-

MALAKAI

Then keep your mouth shut! A smart Magnorite submits to those stronger than him. Aint that right boys? I think this one needs a reminder of who’s in charge.

Malakai and Borgen fight, but Malakai quickly overpowers Borgen and throws him across a table and onto the floor.

MALAKAI

If anyone wants to challenge me, come forward and show yourself!

He walks around the room glaring at everyone. No one responds.

MALAKAI

No? How about you?

He punches a random Magnorite to make his point. Igneous stands up.

IGNEOUS

Hey!

Cuts to outside. Igneous is thrown out the door and onto the ground. He stands up and dusts himself and sees Borgen.

Borgen is walking along and Igneous walks up behind him and matches his pace. Borgen finally whirls around.

BORGEN

Why are you following me?!

IGNEOUS

Oh! I just saw you fighting with that rather rude individual and-

BORGEN

That “individual” is our leader: Malakai.

IGNEOUS

Oh. Well… it sounded like you wanted K’arthen to reopen its borders a moment ago.

BORGEN

I didn’t say that! I’m glad K’arthen broke away from the union!

Borgen pretends that he’s glad about this.

BORGEN

But… if you want to talk to someone whodoes want K’arthen to reunite, go talk to Maxwell. He’s one of the few on the council who has been fighting for unity.

IGNEOUS

Excellent! Thanks for your help.

Igneous starts leaving.

BORGEN

Would you like directions first…?

Igneous stops.

IGNEOUS

Oh… right.

Cuts to Senn, he’s approaching an inlet in the mountain where Galleous said the Knights of Ardonia would be. He dismounts Timber and walks through cautiously, looking up and around.

He gets to the end of the inlet and sees a dead end. He looks confused, realizing he may have been given the wrong location.

He turns to leave, but stops. Camera tilts up and reveals an archer with a drawn bow.

Senn stops and raises his arms as a sign of peace. He raises his voice slightly to be heard over the distance.

SENN

I’m not here to fight- I’mlooking for the Knights of Ardonia.

A large Magnorite steps out from around the corner and approaches Senn.

ONYX

Fighting is what we do. Looks like you’ve come to the wrong place.

Onyx walks up close to Senn and towers over him.

SENN

*slightly uncomfortable* What I meant was I’m not-

ONYX

Why do your markings have no color? Are you some sort of spy?

SENN

*becoming annoying* I’m not a spy-

Onyx shoves Senn back a step.

ONYX

Let’s have a go right now and find out what you’re made of.

Hubris’ voice appears.

HUBRIS

Stand down, Onyx.

They turn as Hubris Nestoris walks towards them.

ONYX

I was only playin’ with him…

Onyx pats Senn on the head and retreats as Hubris walks up and stops.

HUBRIS

The Ardoni without a clan, come at last.

SENN

*surprised* Hubris.

HUBRIS

I’m glad you’ve decided to join us Senn, although I am saddened to not see your Magnorite friend. Come on inside…and welcome to the Knights of Ardonia.

Hubris pulls a concealed lever, and pistons open a doorway into the wall.

Cut to them inside now.Onyx is walking right behind Senn glaring down at him the whole time. Hubris continues walking forward, but introduces Onyx as an aside.

HUBRIS

That hulking giant behind you is Onyx.

Onyx glares even more intensely.

ONYX

*scoffs* Just don’t get in my way and you’ll be fine.

Masani walks in from another entrance.

HUBRIS

This is Masani. She doesn’t talk much, but she’s an exceptional archer.

Masani remains stoic but flips her hair slightly.

HUBRIS

And somewhere around here we have someone who doesn’t talk at all.

GRIM

*attention-demanding grunt*

They turn and see Grim waving happily.

HUBRIS

That’s Grim, also known by many of his enemies as the Reaper. You’ll get used to him.

Grim nods. Senn turns his attention to the rest of the room which is covered in maps, weapons, and other war assets.

HUBRIS

This is where we’ve set up base. As you can see, we’ve been tracking Voltaris sightings and trying to pick up their trail. But enough about us.Onyx, you wanted to see what Senn is made of. Why don’t you take him out back?

ONYX

About time. You come along too, Grim.

Cuts to them walking out back, a small training area is hidden by trees near the mountains.

SENN

So… do you have practice swords or something?

Onyx walks to the center of the training field and stretches.

ONYX

Pfft. We’re not using swords. A real test of strength involves only the weapons you were born with.

SENN

*frowning* That seems a bit unfair considering you’re a Magnorite…

Onyx charges Senn and despite his attempt to stop Onyx, is thrown to the ground.

SENN

Umph!

ONYX

You’re just going to have to manage. Back on your feet!

Onyx is smiling now, and Senn starts getting back up but Onyx kicks him back down. Grim is a bit startled from the sidelines.

GRIM

*startled grunt*

Onyx starts walking around slowly as he waits for Senn to get back up.

ONYX

I’m not trying to hurt you Senn, but if you can’t fight me, how will you fight the Voltaris?

A blur appears and Onyx disappears as he is tackled.

A large dark figure begins fighting Onyx, and quickly throws him down into the dirt.

ONYX

*grunt as you land in the dirt*

The figure turns towards Senn, revealing Grek. He is a large and dark figure with horns and a thick tail.

GREK

I heard there was a fight going on- got a little excited and thought I’d join you.

Grek walks towards Senn, who stands eyes wide at the sight of Grek. He is a new species never seen before in the series, and stands even taller than Onyx was compared to Senn.

Onyx gets back up and rushes to retaliate with Grek. Grek easily back-steps and holds Onyx in a head-lock. He continues talking to Senn as if holding Onyx in a head-lock is no big deal.

GREK

So you’re the new recruit? *grunt as you grab Onyx in a headlock* Don’t mind Onyx… he acts tougher than he is.

ONYX

*struggling* Let go of me!

GREK

What’s your name, kid?

Grek continues holding Onyx during the conversation as Onyx struggles around. It is clear that Grek is far superior to Onyx. Senn is a bit surprised.

SENN

Uh… my name is Senn.

GREK

Ever seen a Jaggathan before?

SENN

I’ve never even heard of one.

GREK

Ha! That’s because there’re only a few of us in all of Ardonia.

Grek finally lets Onyx go and he falls to the floor with a thump.

ONYX

*umph*

GREK

I’m Grek, short for Grekarn. I’m a class twoJaggathan- means I’ve lived, fought, and survived my first lifetime. Us Jags get a second life if we make good use of our first.

Grek inspects Senn some more.

GREK

So, how many Songs do you know?

SENN

Just one, a defensive song.

GREK

Let’s see it.

Senn looks around a bit worried, knowing he’s not ready to show it off yet.

SENN

Now? You want to see it now?

GREK

What do you say Grim?

Grim nods his head.

GRIM

*affirmative grunt*

Senn closes his eyes and prepares it. The Song is heard, and a small spark of energy appears and fizzles out.

ONYX

See, I told you he’s incapable.

Suddenly a small chunk of dirt hits Senn.

SENN

Ow!

GREK

If that was supposed to be a shield, it’s not doing much good.

Grek throws another chunk of dirt which glances off Senn.

SENN

*hit again* Ah! Can you stop throwing dirt at me?

GREK

Stop it yourself.

Grek throws another dirt. Senn’s song is heard and a large sphere of energy appears around him and blocks the dirt. Senn looks very surprised. Grim just claps.

Grek walks back over to Senn.

GREK

Good job, you can shield yourself against dirt. With a little work you may one day stop an arrow. Welcome to the team.

Grek smiles and pats Senn on the shoulder.

Cut to Kiyoshi using the beacons to enter Meridian. Cuts to him inside talking to the leaders.

KIYOSHI

With every defeat, the Necromancers grow in strength. We have to raise an army of our own before it’s too late.

HASAN

Cydonia requires our forces to remain within the kingdom. Every day we’re threatened by the possibility of a K’arthen attack. I’m sorry, but we cannot help you.

Cut to Kiyoshi leaving the building and using the beacons to Oakendale. Cut inside as he talks to those leaders.

KIYOSHI

If the Necromancers defeat us at Ferndale they will have a straight route to the capital of Felden.

CONCHORD OFFICIAL 1

Should we be worried? If Felden falls they may gain access to the beacons which would endanger us all.

Kiyoshi becomes agitated at how the officials are only thinking about themselves.

KIYOSHI

Then help us prevent that!

Officials look at each other.

CONCHORD OFFICIAL 1

We can send a supply of food to assist the war effort.

KIYOSHI

*sigh*

Cut to Kiyoshi leaving the building and using the beacons to Hailstone, then Hyperia, showing him walk out of the buildings each time, paralleling how unsuccessful he is.

He walks to the edge of Hyperia and looks out over the ocean. Someone walks up and stands beside him.

YUJUKI

The kingdoms aren’t united like they once were.

Kiyoshi turns to see her.

KIYOSHI

Fancy seeing you here,Yujuki.

YUJUKI

Listen, Kiyoshi, the council can say what they want, but the military is still under my control.

KIYOSHI

Is there anything you can do to help?

YUJUKI

Perhaps. I’ve heard that the old Ardoni clan, the Voltaris, are making a return. What threat do you think these Necromancers pose compared to the Voltaris?

KIYOSHI

I’ve heard the same rumors… but they’re nothing more. The Necromancers are attacking now and killing our people. If they continue to advance they will amass an army of undead and overpower all of the kingdoms combined. The Voltaris, K’arthen… they’re just distractions.

YUJUKI

I can send a few of my elite troops in secret. No one else has to know. Make sure Felden doesn’t fall, Captain.

She leaves quickly. Kiyoshi has a pained look on his face as the pressure of his situation builds.

Back at the Knights of Ardonia, Grek, Grim, Onyx, and Senn sit around a small fire. Masani is further off to the side being reclusive.

GREK

So there I was… wandering alone through the Shrouded Islands… when suddenly a pack of marauders found me. Out there, beyond Ardonia, there are no laws or protection against violence. I was forced to fight all twenty of them!

Onyx interrupts.

ONYX

Last time you said ten, Grek!

GREK

There was a lot, okay?! I didn’t exactly have time to count. Anyway, they thought I’d be an easy catch… last mistake they ever made! Once I killed the leader, the rest fled… and I looted a grand trophy. I present to you: Soulseeker!

Grek draws his large double-bladed sword and twirls it around a bit.

GREK

Twin diamond blades, title engraved along the handle, three-meters long. Not sure where it came from- but I guarantee it wasn’t forged by marauders. Whatever beast wielded this was even larger than myself. Check it out.

Grek tosses it to Senn, who catches it with an umph, as it is extremely heavy.

SENN

*light umph as you catch the heavy sword*

Senn inspects Soulseeker.

SENN

*in awe* It’s incredible.

GRIM

*attention-demanding grunt*

Senn looks up to Grim who is eagerly holding out his enchanted Scythe.

GREK

Oh, right.

Grek take’s Grim’s weapon and tosses it to Senn who catches it as well, and is now overwhelmed with more weapons than he can carry.

GREK

Grim picked thatweapon up at Etherea… or so we think. He loves thatthing.

Grim nods vigorously. Onyx has been sitting with his arms crossed the whole time, and finally shifts himself into a different sitting position.

ONYX

Yeah, yeah- big shiny weapons. I can get the job done with my bare hands.

Grek, used to this kind of talk, seems to ignore the comment, and turns to where Masani is fletching arrows on the side.

GREK

Maybe Masani will show you her bow if you ask nicely.

Masani looks up with a dull expression.

GREK

Didn’t think so. Anyway! Show us what you’ve got, Senn.

Senn carefully sets the valuable weapons down beside him.

SENN

Well… my sword doesn’t have any history yet. It’s not diamond or enchanted… but I made it myself during my stay in Ataraxia.

Senn pulls out his sword. Onyx eyes it curiously.

ONYX

Hey, that’s not half bad. Hand it here.

Senn hands his sword to Onyx hesitantly.

ONYX

Even though most Magnorites don’t use weapons, we’re renowned for our skills at forging them. This is a pretty good sword.

Hubris hurries into the room, he has a very serious look on his face.

HUBRIS

Grab your things everyone! Senn, you’re coming too. We leave at once!

GREK

What’s the hurry? We were havin’ fun!

HUBRIS

A group of Voltaris have been spotted moving towards The Vault… and they arenot alone.

Hubris waits a moment as the suspense builds.

HUBRIS

The Deathsinger is with them.

Everyone in the room stops what they’re doing and looks towards Hubris worriedly. The music is suspenseful.

ONYX

How’s that even possible?!

HUBRIS

I’m not sure, but I aim to find out. We’re going to show the world that the Knights of Ardonia don’t fear the Deathsinger himself.

Cuts to them outside, they’re getting on horses. Senn gets on Timber. Grek is standing with his arms crossed.

GREK

I don’t care if they’re faster… I’m not riding one of these four-legged creatures.

ONYX

Oh stop complaining.

Onyx is standing nearby watching, who is going on foot because he is too heavy for a horse.

GREK

If Onyx is going on foot, then I am too.

HUBRIS

Onyx is too heavy for horses. Besides, as a Magnorite he won’t tire as quickly as yourself.

Grek gives in and climbs onto the horse, groveling.

GREK

Grr, fine. Hold still you monster.

Grek awkwardly climbs on top of a horse. He settles in and finds himself facing Grim on his horse, who makes a spinning-around motion with his hand. Grek then realizes he’s sitting backwards and awkwardly turns around.

GREK

*more mumbling and grumbling*

Everyone is now prepared to leave. They look to Hubris for further instructions.

HUBRIS

The world does not believe there is imminent danger… and that we are wrong to think so. Each of you pledged your support without asking for anything in return. Today we have a chance to show Ardonia that we are there to fight for-

ONYX

You can tell me the rest when we get there.

Onyx runs off.

GREK

Aww man… your speech scared him off, Hubris.

Grek rides off after Onyx, Masani and Grim follow behind Grek a moment later.

Senn and Hubris remain. Hubris looks dull, and Senn looks over to him for orders.

HUBRIS

Whatever…

Hubris rides off and Senn follows. Music picks up a bit and shows them all traveling through different environments. To be continued.