Episode 6: Crossroads

Marx, Lorenzo and Lidya discussed the current events and planned how to proceed. So far all they knew was that some self proclaimed deity is claiming rule over the Seven Worlds. The portals at the end of the trials had been shut down by some unknown power, possibly stemming from this being. Lidya and Lorenzo, who had been selected to enter Brensur, were now stuck in Entralia.

Lorenzo – “Well? What now?”

Marx – “I’ll speak to the trial council. It’s possible they might have some new information. Afterwards we should leave the region.”

Lidya – “Alright, that sounds good. Maybe they’ve had a chance to speak through the communication crystals.”

Marx – “Indeed. I’ll be back shortly.”

Marx left to seek out an audience with the trial council. About an hour after he left, Marx returned with news.

Lidya – “Did you find out anything? What happened?”

Marx – “They don’t know much else of the matter other than what I informed them previously. The communication crystal in the main chamber was cracked. I guess it won’t work anymore, at least not until repaired.”

Lorenzo – “What about using special message spells?”

Marx – “Sadly, those don’t have the necessary energy to reach another world. It would need the world portals to be working.”

Lidya – “Do you think someone broke into the council chambers and broke the crystal?”

Marx – “No, the damage didn’t have a specific starting point. Also, no simple hammer or weapon could easily damage such crystals. I fear it was some kind of far reaching spell.”

Lorenzo – “If they cannot ask for reinforcements from Brensur, or anywhere else, how can you gather the needed warriors?”

Marx – “That’s where we come in. Their instructions for us are that we have to contact the other trial councils and ask about any warriors that can join us.”

Lidya – “Whoa, we’re taking the other trials?”

Marx – “We have no choice. The rest of the councils are unaware of what’s happening. The only way to reach them is by going through the trial grounds.”

Lidya – “I’m not against a good fight, but all the trials are painstaking, not to mention dangerous and deadly endeavors.”

Marx – “Yes, this is why our first priority is the trial of light.”

Lorenzo – “Why that one specifically?”

Marx – “The actual trial of light is a step towards a bigger target, weapon transmutation. It is a complex enchantment that allows warriors to change their weapons into others.”

Lorenzo – “Ah, I see.”

Lidya – “Wait, I don’t get it. Why is that needed?”

Marx – “Did you forget that lesson? Oh right, I think you slept through that one.”

Lidya – “Just tell me Marx! Stop teasing.”

Marx – “Ha, well. As you should know, different weapons are aligned to different elements. Changing your weapon will allow you to more easily channel its energy. Also, it provides a great advantage in battle because you will have greater versatility.”

Lidya – “That sounds like a very neat trick to have in the battle challenges of the trials.”

Marx – “It would be, except you have to use the weapon aligned with the element of the trial you are taking. So don’t even think about it. Trial councils can disqualify you for that.”

Lorenzo – “What effect would a disqualification have now? No one can leave Entralia either way.”

Marx – “True. No matter, we will try to remain within the rules. I would rather not antagonize the trial councils. Besides, we need their help.”

Lidya – “Got it. Shall we get going?”

Marx – “Yes, I asked mother for a favor. We will be stopping by her village first.”

Marching through Fernal was a breeze for these three fire element masters. The trial had certified Lidya and Lorenzo as such. This resulted in them arriving at Agatha’s village quickly. She met them at the northeastern entrance.

Agatha – “Welcome back, it’s good to see you are doing well.”

Lidya – “Hello Agatha.”

Lorenzo – “Greetings madam.”

Agatha – “Quite the strong ones traveling with you eh?”

Marx – “It still surprises me that you can tell at a glance mother. How are you?”

Agatha – “Concerned, of course. Be careful on your travels.”

Marx – “As always. You have something else for us?”

Agatha – “Ah, yes. Just as you requested.”

Lidya – “Hey! Those are hard to come by, how did you find them?”

Agatha – “I’ve had these for years. When Marx was younger we would use them to talk from time to time.”

Lorenzo – “Communication spheres, a rare sight indeed.”

Agatha – “Yes, so make sure not to lose them! They’re shaped from obsidian and enchanted by the spell master in the trial council.”

Lidya – “Only three?”

Marx – “It’s all we have Lidya, and besides, there’s only three of us.”

Lidya – “Oh, right.”

Agatha – “You can set them on your belt. They will glow when someone is trying to contact you.”

Marx – “Thank you mother, we should keep going.”

Agatha – “Be careful out there, and safe travels!”

Marx, Lorenzo and Lidya continued their way to the gates of Fernal. Some passages were still treacherous. Every now and then Marx suggested a change that shortened their travel time. Once they cleared the gates of Fernal, a path led them due south. As they continued on their way, the group discussed the matter of the trials.

Lidya – “Is there any record of anyone taking all the trials?”

Marx – “Not that I recall. The Entralian council might know more. There might be a mention of something like that in the archives.”

Lidya – “I wonder how those trials will work. What do you think?”

Marx – They will test your knowledge of the element. Spells, weapon mastery and your ability to channel the element’s energy are the key.”

Lorenzo – “We have a long road ahead of us. How will we learn to use other elemental magic, like light magic?”

Marx – “I am a master of fire magic, as are you. In a similar manner that we trained to channel this power, then surely we should be able to tap into other elemental energy.”

Lidya – “It probably won’t be as easy as you say.”

Lorenzo – “We should try to tap into this power as often as we can. It will serve as training.”

Marx – “For all of us.”

Lidya – “Not to be brash, but I feel an eagerness for battle. It’s like Entralia opened up further for me.”

Lorenzo – “Do you truly wish to fight so much?”

Lidya – “Of course! I want to prove myself above other warriors. Though, I am saddened that Brensur is off limits right now. My mother and father are there.”

Lorenzo – “They took the trial then? And they left you?”

Lidya – “Well, yes. They left me with my grandmother. After she passed away Marx took care of me and trained me to follow in their footsteps.”

Lorenzo – “It seems tragic to go through all that.”

Lidya – “I’ve since accepted it as my lot in life. I can’t hold ill will towards them for wanting to reach Brensur.”

Lorenzo – “Did you ever hear from them again?”

Lidya – “No…”

Marx – “The truth is, we have no proof that they made it to Brensur.”

Lorenzo – “Oh… I’m sorry I asked Lidya.”

Lidya – “Eh, pay it no mind. Like I said, no ill will. What about your family Lorenzo?”

Lorenzo – “I only know of my father. He said my mother passed away shortly after I was born.”

Lidya – “And you think my story was sad?”

Lorenzo – “Yes well, I understand a little of how you feel I guess. Father helped to train me. He used to run a mercenary company until his passing. We traveled to all kinds of places.”

Marx – “Did he ever think of leaving for any of the worlds?”

Lorenzo – “He did. The same trial we just passed. Brensur called to him, but it would not be. He sustained a terrible injury in the trials. Afterwards he spent his days training me to take the trial. Eventually he got sick and there was nothing we could do.”

Marx – “I see. Sorry to hear that.”

Lorenzo – “In a sense, he lives on in the training he gave me.”

Lidya – “He trained you well.”

Lorenzo – “Indeed, but enough of that. We should make camp, it will be dark soon.”

Marx – “Let’s head over there, we can continue our trip early in the morning.”

The group halted their advance to rest. A small clearing near the road lent itself as the perfect rest area. Since Lidya was so eager to face the trial, she took the first watch. They didn’t want to risk falling prey to any bandits or other rogue elements.

Early morning on the next day, they quickly packed up and left for the trial entry. Just before reaching the area, Marx noticed something was off and pulled Lidya and Lorenzo into a thicket. While hiding they saw a few armored warriors on patrol. They don’t recognize the crest on the warrior’s chest plates. Marx asks himself whether it is possible they serve the deity. With this new development they must now find a way to access the trial grounds of the light element, the Mindscape.

Episode 5 – Trial of Fire – Part 5

The trial of fire continues for Lidya as she marches onwards. On her way she fights more mercenaries, duels other challengers, traverses the hazards of Fernal and even the occasional battle against a salamander. Though the battles have made her weary, her strong spirit gives her all the strength she needs. Looking out across an area called the Plains of Fire, heat mirages distort the view slightly, but Lidya did not doubt what she saw. A large gate marked the entry point of the council village. The World Portal was not too far off. Just before the gates there is also a small village. That was going to be her next destination. As the sun begins to set in the horizon, Lidya makes haste through the plains. A large flow of lava is currently covering an area and the only way to move through is to jump from rocks that are still visible. Quick as she can and taking care to time her jumps properly, Lidya moves across the flooded area.

Lidya arrives at the village, tired from her ordeal. She sits at a bench in the central plaza, watching a few people move around. Most people here were once challengers that either gave up or failed the final challenge of the trial. After stretching for a short moment, Lidya turns her thoughts on how the trial must have been for her parents and how they must have passed through similar ordeals.

A few minutes of rest and Lidya felt good enough to move on. The next challenge lies in the council village’s arena. A final test that pits challengers against each other. Brensur, the world of fire magic is ever closer.

While Lidya takes the final steps of the trial, the group of Lorenzo, Anna, Aaron, James and Jayna are near that same village. They took a different path which was safer than the previous ones they passed through. Having fewer battles meant that they had time to hone their skill in a different way. Lorenzo, being the most experienced, often spars with the others in the group. Their path took them over some nearby hills that overlook the outer village and just beyond it they noticed the gates to the council village.

Anna – “The gates to the council village are gigantic.”

Lorenzo – “Yes, the region also serves as Brensur’s first line of defense. Meanwhile the trials ensure that only the best warriors are allowed through. In this way the worlds protect themselves.”

Aaron – “Is it true that the world portal isn’t activated until the closing ceremony?”

Lorenzo – “Indeed.”

James – “We’re almost at the end, I can hardly believe it.”

Jayna – “This will be the last challenge before Brensur, we must prepare accordingly.”

Lorenzo – “Until the remaining challengers arrive we will have plenty of time to train. We should also get proper rest. Let us make haste to the council village.”

The great council village of Fernal was established to maintain control of the trials and challengers. A group of watchers keeps a strict count of all the challengers currently partaking in the trial. Among the watchers is also the spell master who is the very key to opening the world portal. During this night the council convenes to prepare for the battles in the arena. Of the original twenty three warriors that entered through the gates of Fernal, only thirteen remain. With this information they start pairing matchups for the final challenge. The duels to be held are non lethal. Anyone who had reached this point had proven themselves against the harsh environment of Fernal. The same goes to other warriors taking the trials of the other elements. If they prove themselves to excel in combat, they are allowed to pass through the world portal. Regardless, the battles are often harsh and taxing to those participating. Everyone that reaches this point is motivated by how close they are to their goal. With the matches decided, a board is placed near the arena so that the challengers can see who they will fight against.

Lidya arrives at the main plaza and checks out who she will have to fight against. Although she doesn’t know him yet, she has been set to battle Lorenzo. A moment after she leaves to rest at the Inn Lorenzo’s group arrives to look at the list as well.

Jayna – “Oh hey look Lorenzo, you’re fighting that girl I met at the infirmary.”

Lorenzo – “Lidya eh? She must be strong to have reached this far on her own.”

Anna – “Aaron got lucky, you’re the wild card here. James has to fight this warrior called Valnar.”

Aaron – “So it’s either Valnar or James.”

James – “Oh you’re gonna end up fighting me for sure.”

Jayna – “Hey Anna, if you win your match tomorrow you’ll be up against me next.”

Anna – “Challenge accepted, I can’t go easy on you.”

Lorenzo – “We are all set then. Let us proceed to the Inn, it is late.”

Everyone agreed and hastily made their way to the nearby Inn. The night seemed to stretch forever. Lidya’s excitement for the coming fights nearly kept her awake all night. Exhaustion eventually took over and she was able to sleep. The others, except Lorenzo, had similar issues.

The next day a packed arena greeted the challengers. The village often received visitors from Brensur itself to watch the matches. Sometimes challengers had family that lived in the world of fire and would visit to cheer for them. Lorenzo looked over at Lidya, who was pacing back and forth, trying to ascertain his opponent’s strength. At a glance all he could see was an overly eager warrior. She seemed reckless.

Throughout the day the duels were held. All of them were powerful, heated battles. Afterall, it was a test of both strength and fire magic. Anna won her match easily, which now pitted her against Jayna later on. James also won his match against his opponent. Ultimately the last matches ended up being Anna against Jayna, James against Aaron and Lidya against Lorenzo.

The duel between Anna and Jayna was a display of powerful fire magic. They were mostly skilled in spells. Fires danced around the arena, leaving the audience stunned. To Jayna’s dismay Anna gained the upper hand and was able to overpower her. Anna won that match. She helped Jayna back to her feet and left the arena together.

Following Anna and Jayna’s fight was Aaron’s and James’. Another fierce competition ensued. In the end Aaron’s training with Lorenzo proved worthwhile and he pulled a win against his newfound friend.

Finally the match between Lidya and Lorenzo was at hand. This particular battle was both powerful and intense. Lidya was swift and relentless in her attacks, while Lorenzo was more calculating in his strikes. His handling of his heavy ax was impressive. The council kept taking notes of this battle as it stretched for quite some time. It was nearly sunset when the two warriors, nearly exhausted from their duel, continued to plot against each other. All Lidya needed was one false step from Lorenzo, and surely enough, after biding her time, Lorenzo made a mistake. She cast a spell to create a heat shimmer. The mix of the spell and Lorenzo’s tired muscles made him take the wrong stance and Lidya was able to disarm him. His ax was thrown off into a wall. Both were visibly tired. Right then the audience exploded in cheers and applause for the both of them. The trial of fire has come to an end.

The following day the warriors were gathered in front of the world portal. The great spell master of the council used his magic to activate the portal. In it an image of Brensur appeared after a swirling blaze dissipated. A list was read out by the spell master naming those who had successfully shown their skill and mastery. Anna, Jayna, Aaron, Lorenzo and Lidya were called. Sadly, James did not show enough mastery to be called. Despite this, the spell master mentioned that he would be welcome to stay in the village to continue honing his skills. As the others passed through the portal Lorenzo and Lidya spoke to James.

Lorenzo – “Not everyone is given the opportunity to continue training at the council village. Keep at it and I’m sure I’ll see you in Brensur very soon.”

James – “I hope so. Will you help with my training?”

Lorenzo – “If I get the chance to return, I promise.”

Lidya – “Hey Lorenzo, I didn’t get a chance to say this yesterday, but you are one strong warrior. That was a great match.”

James – “You two were amazing to watch.”

Lorenzo – “You have great skill as well Lidya. We should train together in Brensur.”

Lidya – “You bet! Let’s get going.”

As Lidya took her first steps towards the world portal, the spell master warned not to continue. The energy of the portal was becoming unstable. This continued until the connection broke. The image of Brensur faded away and the portal lost its power.

Lidya – “Whoa, what just happened?”

Lidya’s confusion added to other’s panic. Many people came from Brensur to witness the trial battles. Now they were all stuck in the council village. The council members assembled right there and calmed the people. While this happened the warriors were ordered to return to the Inn. They would be informed if the world portal could be reactivated.

A few days later and there were no changes to the world portal. Lidya, Lorenzo and James stayed together during those days. They were resting near the main plaza when Marx, Lidya’s trainer, arrived.

Lidya – “Huh? Marx! What are you doing here?”

Marx – “Lidya! Am I glad to see you. I was informing the council of some new information I found. Come, let’s convene at the Inn and I’ll tell you everything.”

They moved to the Inn along with James and Lorenzo.

Marx – “I see you made new friends.”

Lidya – “Ah, right! This is Lorenzo and James. Lorenzo was my opponent in the final duel.”

James – “Hello.”

Lorenzo – “It is an honor to meet you. Lidya was a challenging opponent.”

Marx – “I’m glad to hear that. Lidya was quite the handful to train.”

Lidya – “Hey!”

Marx – “Anyway, onto more pressing matters. It seems that what happened here with the world portal has happened in the other trial grounds as well. After that event the envoy of some ancient deity arrived at Balancor and announced this being would come to rule the Seven Worlds.”

Lidya – “Why now?”

Marx – “There are rumors of some ancient prophecy. I’m still investigating that part. Regardless I was told to seek out warriors. The Entralian Council wants to prepare for the worst. As it stands, it seems most of the elite warriors made it into the other worlds.”

James – “That practically leaves Entralia defenseless.”

Marx – “The council suspects that was precisely what this deity wanted.”

Lorenzo – “What will you do then?”

Marx – “For now, see if I can find more people to join me.”

Lidya – “I’m in, there’s no point in hanging around here if we can’t go to Brensur.”

Lorenzo – “I will accompany you as well.”

James – “I will remain here, if the world portal can be reactivated we will need those reinforcements.”

Marx – “That’s a good call. In the meantime we should prepare traveling supplies. I fear we must head out as soon as possible.”

The news of this rumored deity caught everyone unawares. Lorenzo, Marx and Lidya gathered what they needed and readied for their eventual departure.

Episode 4: Trial of Fire – Part 4

After the tragic loss of Edward and gaining a new companion in Aaron, Lorenzo’s group finally arrived at the village. A brief respite from the harsh trial. Upon their arrival they quickly seek out the village’s healer to tend to Jayna’s burned leg. They are greeted at the entrance to the infirmary by an old lady named Agatha.

Agatha – “Ah, another challenger hurt by the flows. Come dear, head inside and enter the last room to the left. There is a bed available where you can rest. I must head out a moment to gather some healing herbs, as soon as I’m back I can help with your healing.”

Jayna – “Alright. James, will you help me get there?”

James – “Sure.”

Agatha – “I suggest the rest of you go somewhere else to rest. The nearby Inn is a good place to stay, if you have the coin for it.”

Lorenzo – “Thank you.”

Jayna limped forward while James helped her maintain her balance. They passed a few rooms already occupied with other injured challengers. Each room was rather small, but could accommodate two beds. When they reached the room Agatha mentioned there was already someone else there. Jayna sat down at the edge of the other bed. She looked out one of the windows, it looked abnormally dark. Dense clouds covered the region.

James – “I’ll head to the Inn. Lorenzo should be there with the others.”

Jayna – “Ok, see you later!”

Lidya’s vision was blurry, but slowly coming into focus. She felt something on her forehead. It was a damp cloth. She took it off and set it aside. As the room came into focus she saw someone sitting on a bed beside her. Lidya moved to sit at the edge of the bed. Still rather confused she was curious about what had happened to her.

Lidya – “Hi, I’m Lidya, did… did you bring me here?”

Jayna – “I’m Jayna, and no, I didn’t bring you here. I just got here myself.”

Lidya – “Ah, that’s quite the burn there.”

Jayna – “My friends helped me get here. The healer mentioned she would be back soon.”

Lidya – “Maybe she has the answers I seek.”

Jayna – “Have you read that letter yet? On the table beside your bed.”

Lidya hadn’t noticed the letter and promptly began reading it. It was from her teacher. In the letter he explained that he was keeping an eye out for her throughout the challenge because he had noticed that a number of mercenaries had infiltrated the trial. Many of those mercenaries apparently had been hired to cause discord and to cut down as many challengers as they could. He also had suspicions that something much worse was happening in the background but he didn’t have much information. As she continued to read, Agatha arrived.

Lidya – “Marx…”

Agatha – “Ah, I see you’re awake. Here, take this. It’s a little bitter, but it will help you regain more strength.”

Without a second thought Lidya drank the potion. She didn’t react to the bitterness, which impressed Jayna a little.

Agatha – “Looks like you’re almost ready to go. Here, your weapons, boots and vest. Oh and I see you got his letter.”

Lidya – “Yes, still looking after me, even when my training was completed a while ago. Do you know him by any chance?”

Agatha – “Why yes, he’s my son. For as long as I know he speaks very highly of you Lidya.”

Lidya – “You’re pretty famous yourself master Agatha.”

Agatha – “Oh don’t call me that, just Agatha is fine. Even if there is some renown to my healing skill, I’d rather not boast about it. It can bring unwanted attention.”

Lidya – “I understand. Did Marx say anything else?”

Agatha – “No, he said to me the same he wrote on that letter. He’s probably off investigating whatever it is he is suspicious of.”

Lidya – “Well then, I’ll get ready to leave.”

Agatha – “And now for you young lady. That burn should be no problem with this.”

Agatha handed a cream to Jayna.

Agatha – “Put this on. I made it using leaves, tree sap and a healing enchantment. It should help heal the burn and restore your skin.”

Jayna – “Thank you so much!”

Shortly after Jayna was putting the ointment on, Lidya was ready to leave.

Lidya – “Thank you for everything, Agatha. It was nice to meet you, Jayna.”

Jayna – “Stay safe Lidya, hope to see you at the council village.”

Lidya – “Thanks!”

Lidya’s twin axes caught Jayna’s attention. They seemed peculiar for some reason, but she couldn’t point out what. It was as if she could sense some mysterious power emanating from them. As Lidya continued on her way she pondered what Marx mentioned in his letter. “What could possibly be worse than having the challengers get hunted down by mercenaries?”, she thought. As she’s walking away from the village, she and Lorenzo cross paths. Lorenzo takes notice of Lidya, but continues on his way.

Episode 3: Trial of Fire – Part 3

The harsh reality of the trials makes itself felt. Jayna, Lorenzo, Edward, James and Anna were attacked by a group of Salamanders. Although they were able to repel them it placed Edward in a very precarious position. The intense heat is burning his legs, even with the magical protection. Meanwhile the cavern shakes violently.

Edward – “Everyone! Go! Get out of here, you can’t do anything for me now, just go!

Cracks form around the rock where Edward is lying, it begins to float into the river of lava.

Anna – “No, Edward!”

Lorenzo – “Anna, we have to go. We can’t risk our lives any further!”

Jayna – “We can’t leave him!”

Lorenzo – “It is too late and Edward knows it.”

James – “Lorenzo’s right, if we stay we’ll all die.”

Edward – “Leave! I’ll try to make it out. This rock is still stable, don’t worry!”

Lorenzo – “Please be careful. Over here everyone, we can climb through this area. That tunnel should lead us outside.”

Lorenzo pointed the others to an opening not too far above them, but they would have to climb for a bit. As they left Edward behind an explosion shook the cavern again. Shortly after, a wave of lava came crashing down from deeper in the cave. As Lorenzo and the others began to enter the tunnel Edward looked at them. Jayna and Anna looked back, he was charging a spell to close off the tunnel behind them and protect them from the rushing lava. James pulled Jayna and Anna back as the spell was cast and the entry started to get blocked by falling stones. The group tried their best to run out of the tunnel. Jayna was still limping from her previous injury, but managed to keep up. Meanwhile, the wave of lava finally reached the rock Edward was still on. Sadly for him the rock flipped over and threw him into the lava river.

The group of friends was now down by one. Overwhelmed by grief, but still strong enough to push further ahead.

Anna – “How could he? He knew he would die, why did he leave us?”

James – “There was nothing we could do. He did what was best for all of us.”

Lorenzo – “Yes he did. To honor his sacrifice we must continue.

Jayna – “Yeah, could we rest here for a bit. I need to heal my leg properly.”

Anna – “I’ll help.”

Lorenzo – “James, keep watch for any disturbances from the volcano. I do not want any more surprises. I will scout over the ridge and determine our next destination.”

Although saddened by the loss of their friend, the group knew they had to push forward. It was precisely their friendship that gave them the strength to continue.

A quick look along the horizon and Lorenzo was able to identify a village that was fairly close. One of the few hidden villages that serve as a place of respite to many who partake in the trials.

After informing the others about the village they prepared to move on. James helped Jayna stand. As they finished packing some of their supplies a stranger arrived. The young man introduced himself as Aaron. He asked Lorenzo if he was the leader of the group and wanted to have a friendly duel in exchange for some of their supplies.

Aaron – “The people I was traveling with decided to abandon me. Thankfully I was able to reach this point, except I have little food left. I was able to duel others for some scraps but it probably won’t be enough to reach the council village.”

Lorenzo – “I am not exactly in the mood for a friendly duel, but if you are so inclined to do this then I will not hold back.”

Aaron – “That’s the spirit. Let’s go.”

James – “Lorenzo, you don’t have to do this.”

Aaron – “Would you rather I just take your supplies?”

Lorenzo – “I would not allow that either way. Get ready.”

The group’s sorrow weighed heavily on their minds. Lorenzo felt anger, in his mind he had failed Edward. Fueled by this anger, but not blinded by it, the duel commenced. Aaron took a few swipes with his ax. Lorenzo, thinking of a way to quickly end the duel, simply sidestepped the swings, disarmed Aaron and then pushed him to the ground. Powerful mana gathered in Lorenzo’s palm. Before he unleashed the spell, Aaron yielded.

Aaron – “Well, I was not expecting that. You are incredibly skilled.”

Lorenzo – “Here, this should help you until the next village.”

Aaron – “But… I lost.”

Lorenzo – “Yes, but I am not without a little empathy. The trial is harsh, I hope you improve by the time we reach the council village.”

Aaron – “Alright, if I am to repay your kindness, then I’ll help you. That is, if you’ll have me.”

James – “We lost a dear friend but a few hours ago. Perhaps having you with us is like him telling us to move on.”

Anna – “We should hurry to the village. Jayna will need more time to heal.”

Lorenzo – “I accept then, Aaron, you may join us. I can even give you some pointers.”

Aaron – “Thank you.”

After a difficult day the group is now joined by another challenger. They continue towards a village that lies close by as the sun sets on the horizon. The eerie light of lava and volcanoes reflects on the clouds above.

Episode 2: Trial of Fire – Part 2

A weary Lidya hobbled her way through a path towards a distant village. Her magic waned and her mana was drying out. She sat, leaning on a large stone. There she slowly lost consciousness.

While Lidya fought against the warriors and the poison, another group of challengers were moving through some of the more treacherous paths. This group had agreed that they would try to reach the portal together. Bound by a long standing friendship, Jayna, Edward, Lorenzo, Anna and James promised they would look out for each other. They come from the same village far outside the Gates of Fernal. As they walked they saw some of the great fire salamanders of the region, which are often hostile, but luckily for them, too far to bother them. This path was riddled with rivers of lava and sulfur vents.

As they moved along a cavern they started to talk among themselves to calm their nerves.

Jayna – So, Edward, what are you going to do when you get to Brensur?”

Edward – “I don’t know yet. I want to prove myself to everyone, including you Lorenzo.

Lorenzo – “Hey, are you going to start with that? We are not even halfway through.”

James – “That’s right and at this pace those salamanders we saw back there will catch up to us.”

Anna – “James is right, we should concentrate on the task at hand, which is to cross this cavern.”

Edward – “Well aren’t we feisty.”

Jayna – “Heat getting to you Anna?”

Anna – “Not sure, I think Edward’s head is blowing some smoke.”

Lorenzo – “Alright, alright, that’s enough. We should be out in… wait. Do you feel that?”

The ground started shaking and from a nearby lava river a group of three salamanders appeared. Lava sprung up from their leap and splashed one of Jayna’s legs. Her magic guarded her from the intense heat, but the stone hardened quickly making it difficult to walk. Anna moved to join Jayna and started using her magic to carefully melt the stone again. Meanwhile Lorenzo, Edward and James drew their axes to mount a defense. While Anna continued her work, Jayna tried her best to channel some of her magic towards the others. She also focused on keeping her heat resistance enchantment active.

Knowing that salamanders are resistant to fire spells, Lorenzo prepares to strike with his heavy ax. Edward and James team up against one salamander, while the remaining one begins to advance towards Anna and Jayna. The salamander lunges at Jayna, pushing Anna away. Edward pivots from his target and moves to support Jayna. He is able to push the salamander away and strike it with his ax. The scales of the beast deflect some of the force of the blow. Edward is sent flying back into a large rock when the salamander hits him with its tail. Then Anna proceeds to cast a blast spell launching the salamander into the lava river. The power in that spell causes the cavern to shake violently. As this happened Lorenzo was able to pin down and then execute the salamander he was facing. When he turns to face Edward he notices that the rock he is now leaning against is breaking apart. The last remaining salamander, startled by all the shaking retreats into the lava river.

Lorenzo and James rush to help Edward who is still stunned by the attack from before. Anna helps Jayna back on her feet and they watch helplessly as the others run towards Edward. The rock then crumbles and he slips close to the lava river.

Pieces of stalagmites are falling from the top of the cavern. A multitude of rocks are tumbling down from deeper in the cave. For the moment, the situation seems hopeless for this group of old friends.

Episode 1: Trial of Fire – Part 1

The challengers arrive at the main site, the Gates of Fernal. This group is large, but as the shamans know, it will be reduced drastically. More than twenty three candidates are seeking to master the power of fire this year. With this many, the battles will be tough. Many paths lead to the world portal, some may seem easier than others, but all are fraught with danger.

Within the trial grounds are a few, scattered villages made up of people who quit their trial to better support some of the challengers. With the latest group assembled, a spell master arrives at the location to greet them and to warn them of this chosen path.

As the spell master explains the rules, six warriors are making jokes and laughing. These warriors are on their third tryout, they know most of the ground rules. Such rules are simple, challengers may aid or hinder each other during the trial. They can rest in the few villages within the grounds, and finally they must reach the world portal ready for battle. Some of the challengers seem to have been warned and decided to make small groups while others simply began to head off on their own. One such challenger is Lidya.

When she was a child, her parents left her in the care of her grandmother. They left to take the trial. They either completed them or died, no matter what Lidya decided she would test her luck and try this challenge out for herself. After her grandmother passed away, she became desperate. Oftentimes she would approach the Gates of Fernal, only to look at them and run back in fear. One day a man saw her and stopped her from running. He said, “if you train under me you will become a great warrior”. This was something she took as a sign of destiny. Every day, Lidya trained in harsh conditions. She had to bear weights and stand blazing winds. Everything was done so she could withstand the unforgiving volcanic region of Fernal, which hosted the trial of fire. Today, Lidya takes the challenge. She quickly heads off toward the first area she knows will hold something of an advantage for her. Behind her a group of three men move out. They know of this area well. Using the quicksteps she learned from her master, she makes her way. The path she has taken is a more stable ground. Volcanic activity is reduced here. As she makes progress toward a village in the distance, she is met by a road being blocked by lava. She approaches the flow to try and follow it and find a break, but before she can go further a warrior nears behind her.

Warrior – “Give up! Quit the trial while you still live!”

Lidya – “Oh? Was this your doing?”

Lidya pointed to the lava flow. Further behind the warrior, two more approached. They surrounded her and drew their weapons. They each used an ax of varying sizes. The warrior with the heavy, two handed ax moved first taking a swing at Lidya’s head. In a swift motion she dodged the attack and hit her assailant in the back of the head with the back of her fist. He trips on the uneven ground and falls.

Lidya – “I don’t even need my weapons it seems.”

Warrior – “You’ll pay for that! Garrick! Corbin! Help me here!”

Garrick – “Sure thing Gaelin!”

Corbin – “Just do it you idiot!”

The bickering warriors were having as much of a difficult time attacking Lidya. She was fast and had a good grasp of the terrain around her. Garrick moved to swipe with his small hatchet. He was faster, but still not fast enough to catch Lidya. They kept pushing her closer to the lava flow. The heat of the region seemed to intensify with the battle. Her fire magic provides a little protection. Soon she is forced to draw her twin axes. The relentless assault eventually bears fruit for the assailants, a single scratch on the side of her arm.

Lidya – “Pah! This is nothing!”

But as the fight dragged on she noticed something different. Her arm numbed slightly and her senses were beginning to dull. “I have to finish this”, she thought. A poison was assaulting her body. The three warriors cackled, they knew this would be over soon. Little did they know, this spelled their doom. Lidya, angered by this unprovoked attack, charged her magical energies and used the fire magic to empower herself. Corbin tried to make a move to finish Lidya, but he failed. This gave Lidya the chance to strike him with one of her axes on the back of his neck. He fell.

Lidya – “One down, two to go.”

Gaelin – “You insolent girl! You will die!”

Gaelin charged forward in a fit of rage. His heavy ax was no match for Lidya. In one of his swings she sidestepped and the ax buried itself on the ground. Then Lidya unleashed a blast of fire from her hand. The wave of flames burned the skin of Gaelin’s face off. His body slumped forward over his ax. Lidya recalled the ax still stuck on Corbin’s neck. Meanwhile Garrick looked in shock as his two comrades lay dead before him. He looked at Lidya and threw his hatchet at her. Clumsily so, but close enough to make her react and hit it away with a swing of one of her axes. He then charges at her accompanied by fireballs he kept casting. As she walked forward, Lidya redirected some of the fireballs away, except for one which she redirected to his feet. The explosion sent him flying face first to the ground.

Garrick – “Please don’t kill me!”

Lidya – “Do you have the antidote?”

Garrick – “N-n-no, Gaelin said not to bring it, even if we got poisoned ourselves.”

Lidya – “Darn it. Get out of here! I don’t want to see you again.”

Garrick – “O-ok”

Garrick ran away in a panic, the burns on his leg braces clearly visible. Lidya searched for an antidote on the other two, but no luck. No antidote there either. By now the small lava flow had stopped and turned to hot stone. For the moment, Lidya could stave off the effects of the poison, but she would need to find an antidote soon. Perhaps one of the villages further ahead would have something for her.

Prologue: Worlds of the Elements

Long ago the powers of the elements coalesced into seven distinct worlds. Each one possessing a core of pure elemental energy. There are six elements divided into two groups. The living powers of earth, wind, fire and water as well as the spirit powers of light and darkness. A seventh school of magic, the balance, combines these elements. This balance is most prevalent in the world known as Entralia. In it the balance of magic between all the elements is most evident. The only exception to this rule is the various regions where the portals to each of the other worlds are located. These World Portals are heavily guarded and require the passing of a strict and often dangerous trial.

The trials of the elements are a rite of passage for the people interested in living in the worlds outside of Entralia. Often harsh and deadly, the trials are meant to test the skills of the challenger in the particular element of the world they wish to go to. If they are found lacking they cannot enter. This safeguards people from entering a world they are not prepared to roam, or much less live in. Each world also benefits by gaining a strong and capable warrior. The final test of the trials is often a duel between the challengers. If they are deemed worthy, then they are allowed passage into the world.

Trial grounds around Entralia are varied and hug the far reaches of the continent. In the northeastern region lies Fernal. A hot, magma filled and highly volcanic area where the portal to the world of fire, Brensur, is located. In contrast, directly to the north of the continent lie the Frigis Isles. As their name suggests the cold dominates this region. The small archipelago is perfect for honing one’s skill with water magic. Its portal leads to the world of water magic, Ixis. Floating above the skies is the magical city of Utoas. A marvel of engineering and enchanting, the city was built to carry the world portal and protect it. The portal there leads to the world of wind magic, Rallion. Due west of the continent is the region of Scillion. In this area there is a desert, surrounded by a dense forest. Right in the middle of this desert is an abandoned city that contains the portal to Grentis, the world of earth magic. The remaining two elements have their trial grounds hidden in a dimension that was split off of Entralia itself. One is called the Mindscape of Light. It is a dimension devoid of shadows and very faint colors. The lack of contrast is often taxing for the mind. Illusions are placed to fool those who have not trained their perception enough. The world portal hidden here leads to the world of light, Jenehrtes. Lastly we have the trial grounds of dark magic. The Nightmare Warp also assaults the mind. It deals heavily with emotion, especially those of aggression or fear. This dimension is also home to many different creatures that call the shadows their home. At its end, the trial delivers the challengers to the portal to Zanathas, the world of dark magic.

Challengers from all across Entralia train for years. Once they are ready to take on the trial of choice they venture forth, risking life and limb. The biggest reward for many of them is reaching the world they wish to continue living in. Many who reach that point almost never return to Entralia. In many cases families are broken up by this.

In the background of this context a threat begins to rise. This threat puts all the seven worlds in danger. It will take an eager, strong willed warrior to take on the task of becoming a hero.