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Read this file after completing "Murlock's Keep"

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Logan found himself in what appeared to be a small laboratory of the ancient 
mansion. Even here, there were no sign of human presence. The spirits of King 
Iconoclast IX and Elizabeth I had instructed him to find the wizard Murlock, 
and Logan knew from the journal he had found in this building that this was 
where the wizard himself lived.

But there was no sign of Murlock anywhere.

Whoever this Murlock was, he had been waiting one thousand years for the 
appearance of a savior, as the journal had spoken.

On the altar before him sat a crystal ball, an unlit candle, and a book 
written in a language he could not understand. Obviously, it was some kind 
of spell book of magic. But how could a wizard help me? Logan thought. 
Perhaps he knows a spell to return me to Earth.

You! a voice from behind broke the silence in the darkness behind him. It 
startled him as it came unexpected. He had found no one in the mansion, but 
now someone had found him.

The voice was neither angry, surprised, nor fearful. Rather, it was calm, as 
if his presence was welcome.

Logan turned around to face who spoke. Standing in the opening of this room, 
stood a man dressed in a silver robe with a green collar and matching 
sleeves. He had a short beard of chocolate brown hair and hazel eyes. He 
stood two inches taller than Logans five foot nine frame.

It took you long enough, the stranger said. Ive been waiting a long time 
for this day.

Could this be the wizard Murlock? Logan couldnt be certain.

Just what is that supposed to mean? he asked.

The stranger walked down the stairs towards Logan. It means simply that Ive 
been waiting a long time for someone like you. One thousand years to be 
precise.

It has to be him!

By any chance, are you the wizard Murlock? Logan asked.

The figure stopped at the bottom of the stairs. I am.

At last! Logan had found the one person who could help him.

I know I dont look it, said Murlock, but I am about seventeen hundred years 
old. I have prayed to the gods for a savior, but for so long, my prayers went
unanswered. He paused to smile. Until tonight.

Youre very presumptuous, said Logan. Whatever made you believe me to be 
this savior youve been hoping for?

Because you young one are the only one who has come here so far. In a 
thousand years, you are the only visitor I had. No one has ever come out of 
that dark forest in over a thousand years. What with everyone else turned to 
stone under Garibaldis curse, this land is devoid of human life, other than
Garibaldi, his followers, you, and me. Tell me outsider, what is your name?
Logan.

Tell me Logan, how did you find your way to this world?

I must not tell him of my former ties to Garibaldi, Logan thought. He may 
not trust me if he knows.

He told his story to Murlock about how his home city had been invaded and how 
he stowed on board their ship to destroy it, only to strand himself in this 
land. He was careful to leave out the details of his former allegiance to the 
Scourge.

Youre very brave and resourceful to have come this far Logan, said Murlock. 
You have proven yourself to be a powerful and courageous fighter.

Hearing such praise never felt so good to Logan.

You may be the savior this world needs. We must discuss doing what we can 
to free this land, said Murlock. But not here. Come back into the dining 
room. We have much to talk about and so much to do.

					*

Murlock filled two goblets with wine. He gave one to Logan and kept the other
for himself.

What I am about to reveal to you are matters I hesitate to share with an 
outsider, but I believe you are the only one who can help us now.

Im listening Murlock, said Logan.

Iconoclast is a realm separated from the rest of all creation, divided into 
five lands, said Murlock as he sat down. You have already been to 
Iconoclast, the largest of the five lands, and the capital. You are now in 
Dunkilus. There is also the lands of Naphorphia, Arcanius, and Tamirtania.

Logan sipped his wine as he listened with interest.

There are also several islands across the seas and swamps of this land. The 
largest is the Isle of Lazarus across a great swamp at the edge of a nearby 
forest where a powerful wizard once made his home atop the mountain that 
bears his name. At the summit of the mountain is the castle where Lazarus 
lived. It is that castle where Garibaldi now inhabits with his followers as 
he wages his war on mankind.

The Isle of Lazarus. So thats where Garibaldi is! Logan thought as he gulped 
down the last drops of wine in his goblet.

But why would Garibaldi take a wizards castle as his base? asked Logan.

Two reasons. One because the castle is well fortified and is atop a mountain. 
It has never been penetrated by invaders, but that is only because no one ever 
tried to invade it. The other is because Garibaldi is of the bloodline of a 
family of wizards that included the great Lazarus himself.

Logan had always thought of Garibaldi as a power-mad lunatic since Katrinas 
death. Recently, he saw Garibaldi as nothing more than a bitter hate-filled 
misanthropist. But now, as the descendent of a family of wizards, Logan felt 
uneasy. Exactly what power was he capable of? How could Logan defeat such a 
powerful enemy?

I can sense you have doubts about yourself and your abilities my friend, 
said Murlock. All would-be heroes doubt themselves at some point. In the 
face of great evil, how can we emerge triumphant? Will our efforts all have 
been in vain as we witness our own defeat?

You are a wizard right? asked Logan. If you possess great power, why did 
you stand by and allow this land to stay the way it is all these years?

Because wizards cannot harm each other with their own magic spells, said 
Murlock. Nor can their magic harm those of the bloodline of other users of
magic. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first is if the wizard
magnifies his power with a powerful artifact known as the Obsidian of Souls.
Long ago, a malevolent wizard once possessed this artifact until it was stolen
from him, weakening his magic. The second involves transmogrifying his form, 
gaining new abilities and power. This was discovered many centuries ago by one 
magician whose lust for power drove him to seek the means to destroy his rivals 
and not only become the most powerful wizard, but also the most powerful living 
being in all creation. He had two sons, one whom he favored over the other. He 
passed on the knowledge he discovered to that son. The son was granted control 
over the spirit of a hellish demon summoned from the netherworld whose physical 
body had been destroyed long ago. The father on the other hand had mastered the 
darkest and most powerful spells ever to exist and completely bounded his soul 
to that of a more powerful and terrifying creature of his own creation, forever 
destroying his humanity. They were among the most powerful wizards to ever 
exist in all creation, feared for their power and their cruelty. The son of
course was the wizard who once possessed the Obsidian of Souls. Another 
wizard however sealed up the father's soul and weakened the son's power, ending 
their reign of terror. His name was Lazarus.

He shook his head. On the other hand, I can do nothing against Garibaldi. 
While I can conjure up a spell to return you to your own world were the 
circumstances any different, Garibaldis curse also negates my own magic 
power.

More than ever before, Logan wished he hadnt destroyed the crystal cross 
which transported him between Earth and this world in his service to the 
Scourge.

"You may not believe it, but as of now, I am the only wizard left in all of
the universe," said Murlock. "Lazarus has been dead for many years. The father
and son I spoke of have been sealed away.

"But what about Garibaldi?" asked Logan.

"Garibaldi is not a true wizard. From what I know, he inherited the powers of
the rogue magicians son.

Logan's thoughts turned to the diary he found in the cathedral. Could that son
be the master Garibaldi spoke of?

More wine? Murlock asked.

Yes please, said Logan politely holding his own goblet forward expectantly.

One thousand years ago, said Murlock as he refilled both goblets, Garibaldi 
cursed this land, turning its people to stone. You have seen the results of his 
power. To do so, he unleashed a great power within the Sword of Darkness, a 
blade which once slept in the courtyard of Iconoclast castle.

From what Ive been told by the ghosts of the king and queen, said Logan, 
he sold his soul for great power, all to win the hand of a fair princess who 
ended up choosing another over him.

You speak of Minerva, said Murlock. She was not their biological daughter.
Her real mother and father hailed from the land of Naphorphia and they died 
when she was but a mere child. King Iconoclast IX and Queen Elizabeth I had 
lost their own child to a great plague several years after their coronation, 
so they adopted Minerva as their own, raising her to be a princess loved by 
all her subjects. Around her eighteenth birthday, she had grown into a 
beautiful young woman whose hand was pursued by many, even from the other 
four lands of the kingdom. Garibaldi, who by then was the kings most 
trusted advisor, sought her as well. But even after the sacrifice he made, 
Minerva chose Edward, a young bard from Tamirtania. When the king found out 
about Garibaldis deal for power in exchange for his soul, he stripped him of 
his position and banished him. Not long afterward, Garibaldi unleashed his 
curse upon the land, but not before killing the king and queen, and cursing 
Edward and Minerva.

And how can the curse be lifted? asked Logan.

The magic of the Sword of Darkness can only be undone by a sacred object 
known as the Sword of Iconoclast. It is forged by combining the powers of 
the four elemental swords together with the sword of Darkness. This weapon, 
also known as the Excalibur of Light is the most powerful weapon in the 
existence of this land, but none have ever laid eyes upon it. Only once had 
it ever been forged, but only one man had gazed upon it, and he has been 
dead for many years. He was the wizard Lazarus.

Once more, Logan remembered the decoration on the carpet of the castle in 
Iconoclast depicting five swords, four with colored blades and one of 
darkness pointed to another, just as the king and queen had shown him.

Only the power of the sword can break Garibaldis curse, Murlock continued. 

So how will the power of the five swords combine? asked Logan.

There are two places in the realm where this can be done. One is located in 
Lazarus castle.

Logan emptied his goblet down his throat once more, declining Murlocks offer
to refill it. Tell me about these four elemental swords.

Forged by Lazarus himself, said Murlock. Each imbued with the power of one 
of the four elements: fire, earth, sky, and water. They are among the most 
powerful weapons in this land. Each was entrusted to the other four kingdoms.
Arcanius, the kingdom of magic was given possession of the Sword of Fire. 
Naphorphia was granted ownership of the Sword of Water. Tamirtania, a land 
of beauty where its people are in harmony of nature was entrusted with the 
Sword of Earth. And Dunkilus guards the Sword of Sky.

Murlock shook his head in despair. Sadly, the swords have fallen into the
hands of Garibaldi...all except one.

One?

Murlock arose to his feet. Come. I will show you.

He unlocked the nearby door and led Logan inside. Beyond lay a room with a 
circle of stone pillars and torches surrounding a stone altar. Embedded upon 
it was a sword with a blade carved from the finest quartz, shining and 
sparkling like the moon.

They stood before the altar. The beauty of this weapon awed Logan. Very few 
things he had seen were so beautiful, but even the sword itself could not 
hold a candle to his beloved Katrina.

This is the Sword of Sky, said Murlock. It is imbued with the power of the 
wind itself. For now, it is yours to wield.

Logan looked at Murlock in surprise. What? He couldnt believe what he had 
just heard.

Go on, take it, said Murlock. Feel the power.

With trembling hands, Logan closed his fingers around the hilt and pulled the 
sword out of the altar. He gently swung the sword through the air before him.
 Instantly, a swift breeze blew out the flames of the torches and knocked 
them over where they fell with a clatter upon the floor.

Amazing! Logan said. He had never seen anything like it in his whole life.

Murlocks smile only grew into a grin. Didnt I tell you it controlled the 
power of the wind itself? With enough force and great skill, the sword can 
also churn up a powerful windstorm.

Never before had Logan commanded such power. With weapons such as these, he 
could become a powerful magical warrior.

Youll be pleased to know that the other swords possess great power over 
fire, water, and earth, said Murlock. The Sword of Earth can enrich the 
soil for farming, cleave through solid rock, create earthquakes, and raise 
the land itself to produce hills and mountains. The Sword of Water can 
purify any tainted lake or river, put out fire, cause flooding, and 
crystallize anything. The Sword of Fire can melt stone, ignite whatever 
its blade touches, and keep its wielder warm even in the coldest winter 
night.

How fascinating, Logan said as he safely tucked the Sword of Sky away. But 
how did they fall into Garibaldis hands?

Garibaldi inherited the Sword of Fire from his father, a powerful archmage.

So he was born in the kingdom of Arcanius?

Precisely! He also stole the Sword of Water from the tomb of a Naphorphian 
swordsman named Cecil. Cecil was more than just a great warrior; he was 
Minervas biological father. He stole the Sword of Earth from Edward before 
using its power to curse the bard himself into the form of a tree. He also 
cursed Minerva into a crystal statue that he now keeps in the tallest tower 
of Lazarus castle where he rules over this land.

Typical, Logan thought. If he cant have a beautiful princess for himself, 
hell make her something even more beautiful to keep for himself. Obviously, 
he still treasures her. What a delusional fool!

But why? he asked. Why would he steal the swords? What does he hope to 
gain from them?

Being the son of a powerful archmage, Garibaldi wanted to be as great and 
powerful as his father. Sadly, he never accomplished this in his fathers 
time, so the father died disappointed in his own son. In a way, Garibaldi 
sought great power so he could become someone his father could be proud of 
and to win the love and respect of an entire realm. But it wasnt until he 
sold his soul to a malevolent being sealed away in the Sword of Darkness 
when he achieved his dream. However his methods only cost him his position 
as Iconoclast IXs advisor and the respect of an entire kingdom. Though he 
sought to win the hand of Minerva with great power, his methods only 
appalled and disgusted her. Ever since that day, Garibaldi became the man 
he still is today, a misanthropist whose ultimate goal is the extermination 
of mankind itself.

As he listened to Garibaldis life story from Murlocks lips, Logan felt a 
strange uneasy feeling deep down within his heart. He and Garibaldi were both
alike in many ways. Both were unable to win a father's pride and admiration.
Both had experienced loss of something important to them. But while Logan 
himself had lost the woman he loved, Garibaldi had lost the life he had 
always hoped for. So many broken dreams that now would never be fulfilled. 
And even after all this time, he was still feeling sorry for himself. But not 
for what he had done!

Youll get over it, Garibaldi had told him after Katrinas death.

Self-righteous hypocrite!

As tragic as his story sounds, nothing can excuse his actions, said Logan 
shaking his head in disgust.

Murlock nodded. I couldnt agree more with you my friend. Someone must stop 
Garibaldi!

So, Logan said, what exactly happened that day when Garibaldi cursed the 
land?

It is wise for you to ask that, said Murlock. Perhaps it will further 
help you understand what he is capable of. He is not to be underestimated; 
you must know what youre up against. But rather than telling you, how would
you like to see for yourself?

Is that even possible? asked Logan.

Nothing with impossible with great power or with faith in yourself.

Murlock led Logan back into his lab. Stay still and quiet, I need to focus,
the wizard said. With one hand on his crystal ball and the other upon Logans 
forehead, Murlock closed his eyes. Logan saw the wizards forehead begin to 
glow with a mysterious pale light that formed strange runes. He dared not 
question the wizard what was happening, as he didnt want to disturb the 
spell.

					*

After what seemed like an hour even though it was only a few minutes, Logan 
saw his surroundings begin to change from the wizards lab into a familiar 
throne room. A crowd of several hundred people was gathered together on the 
sides. The king and queen stood before their thrones. At their side stood a 
beautiful young woman with long blonde hair tied back into twin ponytails, 
one on each side of the back of her head.

Logan also saw a familiar face here, that of Garibaldi. At the foot of the 
steps, in two columns, eight young men stood.

Murlock, whats going on? asked Logan.

You have traveled back one thousand years in time, he heard Murlocks voice
in his mind. But not quite actually. This is actually a vision. No one can 
see you or hear you. You cannot in any way interact with anything or anyone. 
Its as if you arent even there.

Citizens of Iconoclast, the king announced, the long wait has ended as 
have the courtships of these individuals who sought our adopted daughters 
hand. Now, I am pleased to announce that princess Minerva has chosen!

The crowd began to mumble and whisper in excitement to each other.

Who could the lucky man be? asked a beautiful young woman next to Logan. 
He turned to face her and gasped. He stepped backwards in shock.

Except for the fact that her hair was black and her eyes green, this woman 
could easily pass for his dead Katrina.

It had to be a trick of his eyes. But even after rubbing them, he found that 
it wasnt.

Your majesty, said Garibaldi, I must say that I am honored. After all, I 
am clearly 

Garibaldi, Minerva did not choose you, the queen said.

What? Garibaldis exclamation echoed throughout the air, his voice tainted 
with disbelief. But I am superior to all the other young men, in mind, body,
health, not to mention handsome and powerful. Most women love men like that!

Maybe some, said Minerva, but not me. There are other traits a girl finds 
desirable.

Then who is the lucky man? asked Garibaldi, his voice dripping with dismay,
disappointment, and anger. Tell me princess, who have you chosen? Whom does 
your heart belong to?

Edward, Minerva said with a smile.

Good choice! someone called out as the crowd applauded and cheered.

One of the youths in the right column stepped forward and up the steps towards
 princess Minerva. He was dressed in a minstrels garb of red, gray, and pink,
 with an orange cap stuck with a yellow feather. In one hand, he clutched the 
neck of a lute. Hanging from his belt, Logan saw a sword with a topaz blade. 
Surely, it had to be the Sword of Earth.

The youth reached with his free hand towards Minerva. She took his hand in 
her own and he pulled it towards his lips. Watching them, Logan felt a tinge
of envy and jealousy. How he missed Katrina! Those days would never come back.

Are you out of your mind princess? shouted Garibaldi, causing the room to 
go silent. Edward is just a lowly bard from Tamirtania! Whereas I am the 
kings royal advisor! What makes him different from all the others or me?

He has a beautiful soul, said Minerva, her eyes gazing into Edwards own, 
shining with love. He makes the most lovely music on his lute to serenade 
me with. He is also kind, gentle, and romantic.

But he does not hold great power like I do! said Garibaldi.

But youre so much older than the others! said Minerva, wrinkling her nose 
in disgust. All the others were about my age. Edward is only a mere six
months older than I.

Garibaldi, the princess has chosen, said the queen. You must learn to 
accept and respect her decision.

Garibaldi crossed his arms over his chest. Hmmph! he snorted. To Logan, he 
was just like a spoiled child who was angered at not getting what he wanted
on Christmas morning.

Without warning, the doors to the throne room slid open with such speed and 
force, all heads turned to stare.

Majesty! a knight shouted as he ran further into the room. The Sword of 
Darkness has disappeared from the stone outside the castle!

Gasps echoed throughout the throne room. Apparently, the entire room was 
united in panic. All except for Garibaldi, as Logan noticed.

What? the king shouted. Logan saw that his face wore a mask of horror. 
Search the castle and the surrounding land at once! Leave no stone unturned 
until the sword is back in our hands!

But Garibaldi only chuckled, amused at everyones fear. All eyes were upon 
him, all of which spoke disbelief at his lack of concern. Worry not majesty, 
he said. The sword has not vanished. He pulled a sword with an obsidian 
blade out of his robe. Ive got it right here!

Logan stared wide-eyed at the sword of Darkness as gasps of horror and 
disbelief surrounded him. This was the blade that cursed the land. Or, that 
would curse the land later in this vision.

Garibaldi, what is the meaning of this? asked the king. Why do you have 
the sword? Guards, confiscate it immediately!

As you wish your majesty, said Garibaldi, his voice cackling with amusement
as he willingly handed it over to a knight clad in steel armor with a green 
peacock feather sticking out the top of the helmet. I have no further use 
for it anyway.

Use? the queen asked. The crowd was silent. What use?

Explain yourself Garibaldi! the king said.

What I did with it I did to win the hand of Minerva. Love can make us do 
things we never thought wed do.

But I dont love you, said Minerva, I love Edward.

Thanks to the spirit sealed within the Sword of Darkness, I have been granted 
power greater than Murlock himself and become the most powerful wizard in all 
the land, perhaps even in the whole universe! And all it cost me was my soul!

Gasps of horror filled the throne room.

Garibaldi, what are you saying? said the queen, her mouth open wide.

Majesty, let me explain, said Garibaldi.

The king shook his head. No, dont bother, we dont want to hear it. Your 
actions have endangered this kingdom and its people.

Jeers erupted from the lips of men, women, and children all around Logan, 
directed at Garibaldi, all of whom were in favor of the kings judgment.

He has worked all the evil! a woman fearfully shouted. He must be cast 
away!

Give him what he deserves! a man somewhere called out.

How dare you! Garibaldi shouted, anger swelling in his throat. I have 
served this kingdom faithfully for years and this is how you repay me?

Im sorry Garibaldi, said the king, but in light of this revelation, I can 
no longer allow you to stay here. You have been a fine advisor for me, so it 
pains me to do this. Guards, escort him out of the castle.

Two knights took Garibaldi from behind by the arms. 

Let me go! he exclaimed with such fury as he forced himself free. The 
crowds jeers became silent and gasps filled the chamber. Garibaldi stepped 
away, his face contorted with rage.

You are all going to regret this! he yelled with a swing of his arm as if 
wielding an invisible sword all while pointing a finger at everyone. You 
most of all princess Minerva!

An explosion of light and smoke surrounded him. When it vanished, he was gone.

For several long silent moments, everyone stood in fear at Garibaldis threat.

Majesty, asked the knight holding the Sword of Darkness, what shall we 
do?

We must be on our guard captain Leoric, said the king. Our land and its 
people shall stand ever vigilant against whatever Garibaldi may be plotting. 
But for now, let us celebrate. Weve got a wedding to prepare. My adopted 
daughter, Princess Minerva, and her chosen suitor, Edward of Tamirtania!

The crowd applauded and cheered. Apparently, no one seemed worried at all 
about Garibaldis threat.

If only they knew what was coming, Logan thought.

His surroundings suddenly changed once more. The throne room dissolved into 
the courtyard of the castle underneath a blood-red evening sky. All around 
him, Logan heard the demonic roar of gargoyles, the growls of hellhounds, and
the screams of the dying. Even despite their valor and skill, the knights of 
Iconoclast were no match for the opposition. Steel armor could not protect 
their bodies from the talons of the gargoyles, nor could it withstand the 
fiery breath of the hellhounds.

If only this wasnt a vision, Logan thought. Then I could stop this madness!

The chaos all around him brought back the horrible memories of the massacre 
on his home city. Innocent people were being killed and he couldnt do a 
thing to stop it. Once more, Logan felt a sense of powerlessness within his 
soul.

Again, Logan saw his surroundings change. He found himself back in the throne 
room. The king and queen rose from their thrones as someone entered and 
approached. Logan heard footsteps approaching. He turned his head to see 
none other than Garibaldi.

How dare you return to the palace! the king spoke in anger.

Garibaldi only smiled. I warned you, he said, after what youve done to me 
even despite all my years of service, that you would regret it. Now, 
vengeance shall be mine!

I will see you hang for this treason! Guards! Guards!

Call them if you will, said Garibaldi with a sneer. But it will do you no 
good. No one can stand up to the might of my minions. My master has granted me 
the power to summon them to do my every bidding. Soon, this land shall pay 
the ultimate price for its insolence. And you will have no one to blame but 
yourself...or perhaps even your own adopted daughter.

You leave Minerva out of this! the king shouted.

Who are you to tell me what to do, your majesty? Garibaldi sneered. I 
have spent years telling you what you should do for the best interests of 
your people. After all, I was your royal advisor. I ask you, who truly has 
the authority and power here? Isnt it obvious?

All you are now is a traitor! the king said. And to the people who survive 
this day, thats all youll ever be!

Enough! Garibaldi shouted loud enough for his words to echo throughout the 
throne room. Feel the power of my righteous fury! He pulled from his robe a
sword with a ruby blade. 

The Sword of Fire! Logans mind screamed.

Before the king and queen could react, Garibaldi swung his weapon with such 
great force, the blade easily cleaved through their royal robes to bite their
flesh, spilling their blood over the carpet. Their torn robes and bodies 
burst into flames the moment the ruby blade made contact. The fire burned 
with such intensity that skin and fabric were incinerated into ashes within 
a matter of moments.

Garibaldi pulled out another sword from his robe. This one had a blade 
constructed from sapphire. He held the sword toward the burning flames. 
Instantly, the fires died out as if extinguished by an unseen hand.

Both royal crowns clattered to the floor, soon followed by two blackened 
skeletons.

Logan struggled to choke down his nausea as his surroundings changed once 
more. He found himself back in the castle courtyard in front of the 
drawbridge. Princess Minerva was running out of the castle towards the gates.

Without warning, an explosion of light appeared in front of her, blocking her 
progress.

"Going somewhere princess! Garibaldi said with a sneer as he materialized.

You! Minerva cried out in terror and anger. This is your doing!

Wrong princess! So many have died and so many more shall suffer. And its 
all because of you! None of it would be happening if you had chosen me. I 
made sacrifices for you princess. And in return, you spat in my face!

He shook a finger at her. And now, as your people prepare to fight to the 
end for their kingdom, you flee for your life to save yourself, just like a 
coward! What would your father say? Your father, the great swordsman Cecil?

Minerva stepped backwards. Dont come any closer!

Or what? asked Garibaldi. You do realize what I could do to you with such
power?

Touch her and you will not survive this day you soulless fiend! an outraged
voice cried out.

Minerva turned her head to see Edward running towards her out of the castle. 
He was clutching the Sword of Earth tightly in one hand.

Garibaldi drew forth the Sword of Fire. Stay out of my way boy!

Edward clutched the hilt of his weapon with both hands. Dont worry Minerva.
Ill protect you.

Garibaldi only laughed. What do you know about swordsmanship? Youre just a 
bard!

My father is a knight in Tamirtanias army, said Edward. I learned a lot 
from watching him train.

Prepared to fight for your princess are you? asked Garibaldi. You have no 
idea what youre dealing with. Let us settle this matter once and for all who
is worthier of her hand!

The skill of a true warrior is in his heart Garibaldi, which you dont have! 
Edward clutched the hilt of his weapon tightly and charged.

Edward, no! Minerva cried fearfully. Hell kill you!

But Edward paid no heed to her cry. Apparently, he was willing to risk his own 
life to protect the woman he loved. The swords clashed against each other as 
Garibaldi and Edward fought their duel. Logan saw in Edward despite his youth, 
a brave man fighting to protect the woman he loved.

If only I could have protected Katrina that day...

Ha, you can barely wield that sword! said Garibaldi with a sneer. Your 
skill cant hold a candle to mine!

We shall see about that Garibaldi! said Edward.

The mouse dares to bite, does it?

Well you are nothing but a rat!

Edward drove the blade of his weapon into the ground at his feet. The ground 
began to quake underneath Garibaldi. The former royal advisor struggled to 
regain his balance as Edward pulled the sword out of the ground and swung at 
him.

Garibaldi blocked the sword with his own.

Edward slashed the ground then upward, creating a tall moon-shaped stone
monument. With another swing, Edward cut through the stone as easily as a 
blade would cut paper. A large piece of stone fell towards Garibaldi, but 
with a quick slash of his sword, he sliced the stone in two pieces. At the 
cut, Logan saw a fiery glow as the stone began to melt.

Garibaldi swung his sword with such force that the Sword of Earth was knocked 
out of Edwards hands and sent flying across the ground. Garibaldi held out 
one hand in the direction the sword flew and to Edwards astonishment, the 
sword flew back to Garibaldis hand as if carried there by an unseen force.

Garibaldi laughed as he clutched the Sword of Earth. Did you actually thing 
you could defeat me boy? Without your weapon, you are helpless before me.

Even in the face of defeat, Edward stood in defiance glaring at Garibaldi. 
This was a young man who would still pick up a rock for a weapon and throw 
it should it ever come to that.

Does your blood still boil boy? Garibaldi asked. It matters not for I 
consider this matter settled. Now you shall pay the price for your arrogance!

No! Minerva cried.

The blade of the Sword of Earth began to shine and glow as he pointed towards
Edward. Before Edward could react, a beam of light sliced through the air in
front of him and engulfed him.

Minerva screamed and Logan could only watch in astonishment as Edwards form 
began to change. His arms became branches and his hair grew leaves. His skin 
turned into wood as his entire body was slowly transmogrified into that of a 
tree. There was no sign at all of human body parts anywhere, not even a face.

Edward! Minerva cried out in despair as she embraced the tree that had only 
moments before been her beloved.

Now you see princess, said Garibaldi snickering, I am superior to the one 
your heart has chosen.

You monster, Minerva wept in anger. I cannot believe you would do such a 
thing! I never loved you Garibaldi, but now youve given me a reason to hate 
you.

Garibaldi pulled the Sword of Water from his robe. Recognize this? It 
belonged to your father.

Minervas eyes widened in recognition as she recognized her fathers sword.

Sure you wont reconsider? Remember, the fate of this kingdom depends on 
your choice. Choose me and your kingdom will be spared.

Minervas eyes narrowed as she bravely fought back her tears. Never!

Logan stood in awe of this young woman and her bravery in standing up to 
Garibaldi. Katrina had done that and it killed her. What would Garibaldi do 
to her?

Very well, Garibaldi said shaking his head. In that case princess you have
sealed the fate of this land and its people. You would have made a fine queen. 
Pity you are the doom of this land! And as this realm dies, its people will 
spend their final moments cursing your name. If I cant have you princess, 
then neither will Edward nor anyone else. But for me, you shall become 
something I can at least treasure forever!

The blade of the sword began to glow with a bright blue neon light. Before 
Minerva knew what was happening, the sword suddenly emitted a beam of light 
that engulfed her. As Logan watched in horror, Minerva screamed as her body 
slowly began to transmogrify just as her beloved had been. Her entire body 
from head to toe, even her clothes became clear crystal diamond silencing her
voice.

Garibaldi put the sword away and approached the crystal statue of what had 
only been a beautiful princess mere moments ago. Logan watched in disgust 
as he leaned forward and kissed the crystallized princess upon her lips.

A gargoyle swooped down from the castle, clutching the Sword of Darkness 
within its talons.

What a pity you will not witness the end of your kingdom princess, said 
Garibaldi as he claimed the sword once more. He gazed towards the sun as it 
slowly disappeared over the horizon. The sun has set on human life in 
Iconoclast. Vengeance is mine!

As he raised the sword towards the heavens, the blade began to emit a pale 
gray misty light that spread outward in all directions. His laughter filled 
the air and echoed in Logans ears. Logan could do nothing but watch 
helplessly as Garibaldis curse reached out for miles from where it came, 
enveloping the entire land. He didnt need to guess what would be the 
results. He already knew.

					*

The courtyard of the castle suddenly dissolved away until he found himself 
back in Murlocks laboratory. Even though it had only been a vision of what 
had happened in the past, Logan was filled with feelings of dread at 
Garibaldis power.

Now you understand what our enemy is capable of, said Murlock.

Logan stood in silence at everything he had seen. I was so powerless. If 
only it wasnt a vision! It was like the massacre in his home city and 
Katrinas execution all over again.

I dont expect this of you Logan, said Murlock, but youve come this far. 
If anyone can halt Garibaldis plans and put an end to the evil that has 
stifled our land, its you. Until this curse is lifted, Im afraid you are 
trapped here in this land my friend. But I promise you that in exchange for 
your help, I will help send you back home. What do you say? As a 
representative of this land, can I count on you?

He held out his hand expectantly, waiting for Logans response.

Logan knew he had two options: he could spend the rest of his life living in 
this cursed land with only Murlock and the Scourge as his neighbors, or he 
could rise to the challenge and stop Garibaldi, no matter the odds.

Questions raced through his mind. How could he stand up to such power? Did he 
have the skill it took? Did he have the courage to face such power? And even 
so, would he succeed?

What Murlock said was true. Unless Garibaldis curse was lifted, he would be 
trapped forever in this land. Garibaldis troops would eventually resume 
their invasion of Earth. More people would die. Soon other worlds would fall 
as well to the wrath of the Scourge and their army of the undead. And all of 
his efforts so far would have been in vain if he didnt act.

You made a promise to Katrina at her grave, he reminded himself. If you are a 
man of good character and not a coward, youll do it. You simply have no 
other choice! Youve come so far. Dont give up now! Besides, this could 
your chance to give meaning to her death and your own life! Besides, you 
have the Sword of Sky in your possession. With the other swords, you may have
a chance yet!

Ill do it, he said. Hell, I have a personal score to settle with Garibaldi
myself! He took Murlocks hand.

With a smile, Murlock shook Logans hand. Congratulations Logan, this is 
exactly what I have been hoping for so long. I cant tell you the joy I feel
right now. Hope has finally returned to Iconoclast!

Somehow, Logan knew he had just made this old mans day.

Its getting late, said Murlock as they released hands. You may rest here 
for the night and begin your quest tomorrow. Come, Ill escort you to your 
bed chamber.

					*
In his dreams, Logan once more found himself a thousand years in the past, 
watching knights and civilians being slaughtered by Garibaldis minions. He 
reached into his trench coat for a weapon, but found nothing. Some of the 
gargoyles and hellhounds turned their attention to him and advanced 
menacingly, their jaws and talons ready for their dirty work. This time, 
it was if he was there and he still couldnt do a thing. Once more, he felt 
the venom of helplessness though his soul.

Logan awoke as the sun began to rise. He found Murlock waiting for him at 
the dining room table. A quill pen was in hid hand and a parchment lay upon 
the table.

Good, youre already up! he said. Ive just finished what Ive been 
working on the remainder of the night.

He set the pen down and motioned for Logan to come forward. 

This here is a map of the region. I have drawn the route you will take.

Logan inspected the map. From the castle walls, there was an ink line leading
into a forest, across a small bridge, past a swamp into a dense forest 
leading all the way up to a vast swap surrounding a vast lone island.

As you can see here, your route will take you to the Swamp of Death. 
Nothing can live in its murky depths and human flesh is dissolved in mere 
seconds. You will find a boat waiting to take you across to the isle of 
Lazarus where Garibaldis castle stands atop the lone peak. Once you get 
there, the rest is up to you.

Logan noticed two round emerald stones the side of his fists on the table. 
Etched into them were arcane symbols and runes whose meaning he could not 
understand.

What are those? he asked pointing at them.

They are magical charms that works as teleport devices. As you can see, 
they were created as a pair. Should they become separated by great distances,
activating one will teleport the user to the location of its partner. You 
may take one of them into your possession.

What will I need it for? asked Logan.

Should fate smile upon you, Murlock said, and allow you to succeed in 
your quest, activating it will teleport you back to the other rune's location. 
Anyone who wishes to be teleported with the stone must hold it with at least 
one hand when it activates. This will save you a long walking distance for your 
return.

How convenient, said Logan as he picked up one of the stones and placed 
it into his pocket.

I will also work on creating a charm to teleport you back to your homeworld, 
said Murlock. Im a man of my word Logan. And Ive never broken a promise I 
made.

The wizard rolled up the map and gave it to Logan. I have unlocked the door 
leading to the lands outside my house. You are free to leave at anytime to 
begin. Im counting on you Logan. I am only sorry that I cannot aid you any 
further. This is all I can do for you.

Logan stuffed the map into his trench coat. Thank you Murlock. Ill do my 
best.

Im going to pray to the spirits and gods to aid you, said Murlock. The 
future of this kingdom demands that you see it through. I have no idea what 
your chances are, but you must take the risk. You are our only hope for this 
lands freedom.

I will leave right away, said Logan.

Good luck Logan!

The two men shook hands once more.

					*

Outside the previously locked door, Logan found himself in the gardens 
outside the walls of Dunkilus castle. Crickets chirped in the crisp air as 
the morning sun began to warm the morning, painting everything with a golden 
light. Once more, he studied the map, memorizing his route, and stuffing it 
back into his trench coat when finished.

Murlock has promised to send me back to Earth once this is over. If I am to 
return to Earth, I must succeed! The future of mankind depends on it!

And so begins another mission, one more epic than before.