And the story continiues, with another somewhat long chapter. Wesley is having a hard time enjoying his bath in the lake, since privacy is difficult to come by, but the king has a surprise that is guaranteed to cheer him up later. Hope you'll all enjoy this next part of the grand adventure!

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Chapter 38 - The royal platemail

A new day had been born, and sunlight had once again been able to pierce the barrier of dark clouds above. It was a pretty beautiful morning, compared to what we’ve been offered the other days lately. Because of the horrendous chaos yesterday, the king needed to rest alone in his bedroom, to heal the few damages he received. It was nothing major, and we assume to see him back on his feet later the same day. He just need to recover in his sleep. After Sean had escaped, we found the king unconscious. The pain must’ve been too much for the old guy to bear. But once the servants heard that the fight was over, they left their hiding places around the castle, and brought the king to his bedroom. They also offered us to spend the night in the castle, which was an offer that we accepted with great gratitude. What surprised me was, they offered us two rooms in the castle, with no rules of segregation. We were all allowed to decide where we wanted to sleep, regardless of where we came from. So our tribal friends were permitted to stay in the same room as the rest of us. I suspect that the king has already spread the word about our quest, making it much easier for us to bring foreign people into our kingdom. So far, we haven’t experienced that much hostility from our own people, despite of the prejudices they used to have against our primitive allies. Everything is altered by the great winds of change.

Despite of the exhausting battles that took place yesterday, I still found the motivation to awaken early, to handle a few private things in peace. After having roamed around the attic for a while, I was in great need of a bath. It was impossible to avoid getting dirt and dust inside my armor, and on top of that, my face and hair was completely messy. But since all the water inside our ruined town was contaminated, I’d have to search for an alternate way to clean myself. Fortunate for me, I happened to know that there was a pleasant lake nearby, also located inside this great valley. This used to provide us with a water supply for the town, before we found a better source past the fields of wheat. But today, most people have completely forgotten about it, and only few visit it to have its beauty soothe their souls. So it seemed like an ideal place for a shy person like me to take a bath, during these dark times where our options are limited. While everyone else was sleeping around the castle, I snuck out quietly, and let my memory direct me toward the lake’s location. It hasn’t been used for years, so I haven’t had any reason to go there for quite a while. But I did recall that the lake was so close that you could still see the towers of the king’s castle above the nearby hills.

No more than around twenty minutes later, I had found the way to the lake that I sought, without having holes in my memory mislead me. And just as I recalled, I can still see the towers of the castle from here, making it easy for me to find my way back. It truly was a pleasure to be united with the sight of this lake once again. It’s been too long. The strong sunlight reflected in the water, sending the rays in my direction, forcing me to squint my eyes. Several small water lilies floated around the surface, and I could hear the sound of frogs croaking within the area. A fresh scent grazed my nostrils. I was quite convinced that the contamination hadn’t reached this area yet. So after I had made sure that no one was here, and no one had followed me, I pulled off my old worn armor and undressed behind the reeds. Everything was silent and peaceful. I didn’t even feel uncomfortable or insecure, once I was standing there completely naked. My armor and equipment was hidden behind the reeds where I undressed. The gentle breeze crossing through the valley, tickled as it made contact with the thick fur covering my entire body. I inhaled and released a deep sigh. It provided me with a great sensation of freedom, to no longer have the heavy armor equipped, and be fully unclothed. My large fluffy tail was drawn to the side by the breeze, riding the wind with wavy motion. It happens too rarely that I’m given the opportunity to enjoy nudity under the open sky. I suspect this is an experience that our tribal friends enjoy much more often than I do.

Once I felt ready to take the next step, I moved slowly forward, approaching the lake. My bare foot dipped into the water, becoming the first part of me to explore the area beneath the surface, and then I felt it becoming sucked into the mud at the bottom. It was a bit uncomfortable at first, but it didn’t really matter, since the mud would get off my feet once I walk through the water. The ground around the edge of the lake was expected to be soft and muddy, but it would become more solid once I reach the center. Driven by my desire to be properly cleaned, I stepped into the lake with both feet, gasping softly as my entire body sunk slightly further into the mud. It was my own weight that pulled me down into the soft soil. But I knew that the problem would only grow if I stood still, so I pushed forward with no hesitation, dragging my feet through the mud. Rings formed in the water and expanded quickly, with every step taken. My legs slowly disappeared under the water. Then my hips. It didn’t take long before my feet met solid ground, but it kept getting deeper as I approached the center of the lake. But once the surface reached the bottom of my chest, I stopped. There was no need to head further out. I closed my eyes for a moment, and focused my mind on the pleasure provided, by having the water soak my nude body to the skin.

I released a deep sigh of relief. It was like having my nude body stimulated by the gentle pressure in the water, had completely washed away my worries, for the time being. Once my lower body had remained motionless long enough, some of the fish living in the lake had found the courage to move closer, investigating my legs cautiously. With my hands gathered, I lowered them down into the water, picking up what my palms could carry. Then I lead my gathered hands to my head, before letting the water roll down over my hair, tipping my cupped palms to get it all out. It was necessary for me to repeat this several times, in order to get every strand of hair on my head soaked with water. My fingers slowly combed my long smooth hair, making sure the moist reaches all the way down to my scalp. The satisfaction made my body shiver. During dark times like these, I don’t get to wash myself like this often, so I praise the lord for every opportunity granted. With my hair soaked wet, I now dropped my hands down into the lake, and splashed water onto my torso. The tufts of white fur on my chest was flattened down by the water, and it felt absolutely marvelous. The harmonic environment brought peace to my soul, and I could sense that I really needed this blissful moment alone. But then my foxy ear suddenly caught the sound of a heavy flapping noise coming from above. That was certainly no bird. A large shadow moved in over the lake, and as I raised my head to look up, I saw Zephyr with his impressive wings stretched out. It’s really rare to see him in flight. But once he noticed me in the lake below, he suddenly stopped and beat his wings swiftly to remain in position, before going for an immediate dive down towards me. I dropped my jaw and gasped in fear.

Zephyr: Watch out below! Yahaaa!
Wesley: No, no! NO!

Too late. He crashed down into the lake very close to me like a falling rock, and his weight caused a large wave to wash in over me, leaving my body soaked to the skin. Zephyr was still under the water, but I send a scowling stare towards the bubbles appearing by the surface. This occurrence left me pretty grumpy. I didn’t recall having invited him to my little harmonic paradise here. A frog had apparently been carried onto my shoulder by the wave, croaking loudly into my ear. I growled angrily before flicking the little pest off my shoulder with the fingers. A couple of seconds later, Zephyr appeared by the surface again, heaving for air once his head and torso was out of the water again. His flaming red hair and fur around the neck was soaked, and I squinted with the eyes when he suddenly shook intensely, until his fur became slightly poofy. A flurry of water drops showered my already wet body for a brief moment. First then, Zephyr finally turned around to face me, finding me standing there with my arms crossed. And I certainly didn’t seem very pleased at all.

Zephyr: Arh, what a lovely place. Sinqularis will be happy to hear that I found a place where we can clean ourselves properly!
Wesley: Oh really?
Zephyr: Hmm… That’s strange. Where did you get that scar from? The one on your throat. I don’t recall having noticed that before.
Wesley: Uh… It’s nothing. Don’t worry about it. Just an old injury.
Zephyr: It looks pretty fresh and new to me. Are you sure about that?
Wesley: Yes! As said, don’t worry about it. Please excuse me…

At this point, I had completely forgotten about the scar, that Sean left behind in the battle yesterday. But I was by no means interested in having anyone asking questions about it. Because I honestly wouldn’t know what to reply. The corrupted cleric inflicted a mortal wound on me, and not only did I survive, it healed almost instantly. And to speak the truth, I had no idea where the divine capabilities came from, which suddenly empowered me during my near death experience. There’s no way that I could possibly explain those events if anyone asked into it. I’ll need some time to think it all through myself. My intuition tell me that it was no coincidence, and that it somehow is connected with my lost memories. But for now, I made a swift retreat back to the edge of the lake, to escape Zephyr’s curiosity. It was necessary for me to push the reeds aside and search for a while, before I found the place where I left my clothes and armor. Everything looks the same around here, and I should’ve marked the location of my equipment somehow. But there was no need for me to be nervous about being nude, because who would possible find me by the lake, when I was hiding behind the reeds? That’s what I thought, at least. But just as I was about to bend over and reach down for my clothes, someone tapped my shoulder from behind to get my attention. I gasped by surprise and looked over my shoulder, to see a stranger standing there, looking at my naked body. Was it completely impossible to receive just a little privacy in this world? The garments he wore were noble in appearance, so I figured he was sent by the king. But I didn’t turn around to face him, because if he really had to see my naked body, I’d rather have my rear exposed than my crotch. Besides, my fluffy tail kept my bare buttocks partly hidden. What an insolent imbecile.

Messenger: Uhm, excuse me, sir?
Wesley: What is it!?
Messenger: The king has summoned you to the throne room. Please arrive as soon as possible, and don’t keep him waiting.
Wesley: Fine, I’ll come. Thanks for delivering the message. Bye bye!
Messenger: Sir… Please put on some clothes before you meet up in the throne room. This is highly indecent.
Wesley: SCRAM!!!

The moron finally sensed the rage in my voice and disappeared just as quick as he appeared out of nowhere, running through the reeds as if the devil himself chased him. Once he was out of sight, I had to close my eyes and count to ten a couple of times to calm down. At this point, I didn’t care that my body was still slightly wet. So I finally picked up my clothes and armor, getting myself dressed again, before someone else would catch me naked by the lake. Of course, the messenger shouldn’t be punished for being too effective when just doing his job, but he needs to be taught a thing or two about courtesy. Nevertheless, I left the lake only shortly after, leaving Zephyr behind to enjoy his bath alone. I’ve gotta draw the line somewhere, and I wouldn’t want to be noticed by someone who knows me, while washing myself next to another naked male. That would inevitably create disturbing rumors to be passed around in gossip. Once I was halfway on my way back to the castle, I could feel that my long blond hair was becoming more dry, and the same counted for the rest of my body. But I could still feel the moist cling to my fur inside the armor. The combination of wind and warmth from sunlight handled the drying process eventually. Despite of the unexpected occurrences, the bath did make me feel refreshed, after having replenished my lost energy. Once I’ve distanced myself from the disturbances that found place by the lake, I’m certain that my grumpy mood will also improve, sooner or later.

Later the same morning, close to midday, I arrived at the castle as requested. But once I approached the large door leading to the throne room, I found Raksasha and the shaman standing outside, apparently waiting for me. They saluted me kindly, and then informed me that they also had been summoned by the king’s loyal messengers. So we regrouped and entered the throne room together. Once the great door opened, we found the king sitting on his throne, sending us all a warm smile. He seemed to have recovered well, after a proper nights sleep. Side by side, the three of us approached the king, walking across the red carpet leading to the throne. But only a moment after we reached the end of the red carpet, standing very close to the king, something unexpected happened. The shaman suddenly kneeled before the king, showing respect and humility at the same time. Raksasha mimicked his action. At this point, I could really feel the guilt swell inside me, for having once considered these people savages. It takes a great sense of honor to bow for a king that isn’t your own. They’re not only paying respect to the king, but to over entire kingdom, by doing this. But before I had the chance to kneel myself, the king chuckled heartily, before speaking.

Lionheart: Rise, noble warriors. You are trusted allies of our kingdom, and thus, you are not obliged to kneel for me.
Wesley: You summoned us, your majesty?
Lionheart: That is true. I have requested to see you, because each of you represent the cultural societies from which you come. You, sir; are you by any chance the famous spiritual shaman leading the eastern tribes?
Sinqularis: That’d be me, yes.
Lionheart: Excellent. But may I ask who you are, my lady?
Raksasha: My name is Raksasha, and I am here to represent the barbaric clans of the southern deserts. I am not their chieftain, but trust my words when I say, the clans are eager to strike back at the forces of undead.
Lionheart: It’s a pleasure to meet you all. The fact that you stand before me in this throne room, proves that Wesley’s quest has been successful. And I welcome you to my castle, honored allies of my kingdom.

Though no longer kneeling, Raksasha and the shaman both nodded once, saying with no words that they appreciate the hospitality.

Lionheart: But alas, I didn’t summon you here just for a friendly chat. Now that we’re gathered, I’d like to ask if you have any further plans, that may improve our chances against the undead forces?
Sinqularis: We do. Will you handle the explanation, Wesley?
Wesley: Certainly. An old druid from the eastern tribes informed us about a sacred blade named “Heavens Divider”. According to him, this blade possess the power required to penetrate Zervas’ immortality.
Lionheart: The old man spoke the truth.
Wesley: Huh? You sound like you know something about this.
Lionheart: That is correct. I knew the previous owner of that sword very well, being the paladin named Panadeus. But please, carry on.
Wesley: After the paladin perished in his attempt to defeat Zervas ages ago, the blade was brought to a cave carved into a cliff in the ocean, a couple of miles from the western coast.

The king suddenly lightened up with a broad smile, obviously having much more faith in this quest than we do. But I also suspect that he knows something about this that he isn’t sharing with the rest of us.

Lionheart: So you seek to obtain this holy blade?
Wesley: We intend to give it a try, despite that the chance of success is extremely small. It could really turn the tides in our favor.
Lionheart: Truthfully spoken, young fox. That was all I wanted to discuss with you. So I thank you all for coming here on such short notice.

Raksasha and the shaman bowed respectfully for the king, before turning around and leaving the throne room. Once I heard the great door being slammed shut behind me, I too turned around and was about to leave. But then the king approached me from behind and laid his large hand on my shoulder, causing me to stop and stand still. I looked over my shoulder.

Lionheart: Just a moment, Wesley.
Wesley: Yes, my liege?
Lionheart: About what happened yesterday…

I slowly turned around to face the king, but then I lowered my head, before releasing a soft sigh. I just knew this subject would be brought up.

Lionheart: Honestly spoken, I don’t understand what happened after I passed out yesterday. But the last thing I remember is that you appeared right before Sean was about to take my life. When I woke up later, Sean was gone, and no one had been further harmed.
Wesley: That is true, I suppose.
Lionheart: You saved my life, didn’t you?

A short moment of silence occurred. It was against my nature to boast of my deeds and reap the rewards of my own accomplishments. But the king just smiled, as he found the answer by looking into my eyes.

Lionheart: You’ve always been such a modest soul, my friend. I’m not going to ask into how you managed to defeat that menace, but I thank you for protecting me when I needed you most.
Wesley: It was nothing, your majesty…
Lionheart: Don’t be silly, young fox. And I know just how to repay you for such heroic deed. Please follow me.

The king walked right past me and left the throne room, and as he ordered, I followed him curiously. We remained on the second floor, and he led me to another door, not so far from the throne room. Once the door opened, I realized we had arrived in the library. There were dozens of bookshelves scattered around the room, full of old dusty books, mostly based on history from the past that concerns our kingdom. It’s a room that I seldom visited back when I worked for the king, since I dislike the disturbing smell that old books tend to have. Besides, I’ve never really been the bookish type. But while I was looking around to examine the room, the king approached a bookshelf, and pushed in the one and only book which seemed to be untitled. A loud rumble was heard, and the bookshelf moved aside, revealing a hidden passage behind it. Without asking questions, I followed the king as he disappeared into this hidden passage, very eager to find out what we’d find in here. After having walked through a dark corridor, we appeared inside a small but bright room, lit by lanterns. And then I dropped my jaw in awe, once my eyes caught the sight of a magnificent platemail, left on an armor stand. There was a faint indication of the king’s royal crest on the chest of the armor, being the noble head of a roaring lion. There was no doubt - this was the same armor that the king wore in his days of glory, back when he carried the royal banner into war. Has this armor truly been here all this time?

Lionheart: The expression on your face reveals, that you know exactly what this is, despite you’re too young to have seen it in action.
Wesley: I certainly do.
Lionheart: This armor was specially designed for me, 32 years ago, by the most talented smiths throughout our kingdom. Rare and extremely durable materials were used to craft this unique masterpiece.
Wesley: It’s so beautiful and elegant…
Lionheart: You’ve protected my life, Wesley. Now it’s my turn to protect yours. Take it, my friend. And wear it with pride!
Wesley: Woah, are you serious!?
Lionheart: Most certainly. Go on, put it on.

The king crossed his arms and smiled to me. Excited like a young cub, I quickly unequipped my armor, laying the plated parts on the floor. And when I was only wearing the padded leather clothes that I keep under the armor, I approached the royal platemail, watching my own reflection in the shiny metal. The first part I grabbed was the impressive platebody meant to cover my torso. It was somewhat heavier than what I wore before, but it was nearly indestructible. These plates were definitely designed to protect someone of high importance. Once I put it on, I could feel that it was slightly too big for me, since King Lionheart has a slightly more broad chest than me. But I could get used to it with time. Next, I put on the plated gloves, legs and greaves. At this point, I was convinced that this armor would slow my movement down significantly, but I considered that a low price to pay for the tremendous boost of defense. I couldn’t imagine anything penetrating this armor, or even leaving a dent in it. Finally, I put on the tight buckle, with a red cloth attached for decoration. After having equipped all the pieces, I turned towards the king to ask about his opinion, and observe his reaction.

Wesley: How do I look, your majesty?
Lionheart: There’s still a few parts missing. Here… let me help you.

I watched as the king grabbed a red cloth from the shelf that had been folded. This piece of cloth also seemed to have the king’s crest upon it, though it was much more clear than the faint version of the crest, displayed on the chest of the platebody. Once the cloth was unfolded, it appeared to be a beautiful red cape. The king attached the cape to the armor for me, and it was so long that it almost made contact with the floor. Finally, he went back to the same shelf, and found a small piece of metal. After having examined it for a few seconds, I realized it was a metallic headgear, meant to fit a canine. This puzzled me, because if it wouldn’t fit the head of a lion, then it couldn’t possible be part of the king’s set. Nevertheless, the king carefully put the metallic headgear on me, and it fit me perfectly. This would certainly come in handy.

Lionheart: This metallic headgear was a gift that I intended to hand your father, as a token of my gratitude for having served me for so many years. But his life was forfeit, before I had the chance to do so… For now, I just hope that it can provide the defense required to keep his son safe.
Wesley: Thank you so much, your majesty.
Lionheart: Now go, champion of Paravil. You have an important quest ahead of you. Stay strong and vigilant. And never stray from the light.

With no words spoken, I bowed respectfully for the noble king, before obeying the given order. Then I turned around to leave the hidden room, equipped with the royal platemail, releasing loud clanking noises with each step taken. My muscles may need a little more training before I can use this equipment properly. But I really didn’t care about such minor trifles at that moment. The only thing I had in mind, was the tremendous pride of wearing an armor, that was once used by a king. It just couldn’t possible get better than that. My confidence had increased significantly, and this newfound enthusiasm left me mentally prepared for the journey ahead. Once I’ve regrouped with my trustworthy companions, we shall together continue our quest towards the west, to search for the sacred blade. But if the “Heavens Divider” truly exists, then we can only pray in our hearts, that one of us is qualified to touch it. According to the old druid we met back in the enchanted forest, the blade is possessed by the spirit of it’s previous owner, being the fallen paladin named Panadeus. And if he won’t let any of us approach the sacred weapon, then our journey will be in vain. The shaman told me once during our travels, that according to the legend, the restless spirit awaits the arrival of the true hero, who is destined to perish the lord of death once and for all. The legend mentions no name of this socalled chosen one, so his identity remains unknown. But it’s a mystery that we must solve eventually.