Chapter 3 Chapter 3 Wandering

The Elf Prince sat quietly. Calin waits for his mother.He will have a lot to say to his mother tonight.There would be no such opportunities in the future, and as the war grew, his time in Elvandar became less and less.As the leader of the elves, he has been in the battlefield almost every day since the invaders almost crossed the river last time. During the three years of the siege of Kared Castle, the invaders swarmed across the river like ants in spring, exhausting the elves.Every year the elves use spells to thwart the attempts of their enemies.Hundreds of enemies are still sleeping in the lifeless swamp, allowing their bodies to rot and nourish the forest in the mud.Or could not resist the temptation of the dryad, pursued the soul-stirring song until he dedicated the fire of his life to those goblins, dancing and dying in longing.Or be devoured by beasts summoned by the elves with the sound of their horns.Every plant and tree in the Elven Forest will try their best to resist the invaders until the enemy is defeated.

But at the beginning of this year, many black-robed people appeared.The power of many elf magics has actually decreased.Although the elves still won, Ke Kaling didn't know whether the elves would achieve such success the next time the invaders counterattacked. This year, the dwarves from the Gray Towers once again helped the elves.Since the dark elves (moredhel) left the Green Heart (Green Heart), the dwarves can easily send men to support Elwanda in winter.During the three years of the siege of Kared, the dwarves proved to be an indispensable force in preventing the invaders from crossing the river.Also with the dwarves came a young man called Thomas.

Ka Ling looked up and stood up immediately after seeing her mother coming.Queen Aglaranna took her seat on the throne and said, "Son, it's good to see you again." "Me too, Mother." He sat down at his mother's heels, anticipating what to say next.His mother sat comfortably, seeming to sense his low mood. Finally he spoke. "Thomas upsets me so much." "He bothers me, too," said the Queen wistfully. "Is that why you were at a loss when you saw him walk into the hall?" "Actually... I have other reasons." "Could it be troubled by the powerful spells of the Old Ones that have been handed down for centuries?"

At this time, someone behind the throne said. "Is not it?" The two turned around in surprise, only to see Dolgan stepping out of the shadows and lighting his pipe.Agola Anna's face was sullen. "Do the dwarves in the Gray Tower like to eavesdrop on others, Dogan?" The dwarf leader paid no heed to the thorns in the words. "Of course not, ma'am. I just wanted to go for a walk--those little rooms are too easily filled with smoke--and I happened to hear you talking. I didn't mean to interrupt you." Ka Ling said, "As long as you want, you can sneak quietly, old friend Dougan."

Dogen shrugged and let out a puff of smoke. "Indeed, elves are not the only ones who know the art of stealth. It's just that we all want to talk about the kid now. If what you just said is true, there's going to be big trouble. If I'd known earlier, I wouldn't have let He got that damn gift." The queen smiled at him. "Dogan, it's not your fault. You can't see foresight. I also didn't feel the awesome spirit of the ancestors around Thomas until he got here. At first I thought Valheru's magic was not good enough. Will take orders from a mortal, but now I find him becoming more and more extraordinary.

"A series of troubles have kept it from us. If it were not for the influence of dragon word magic, our spellweavers (spellweavers) would have discovered the armor. We have spent centuries searching for similar ancient relics and will ourselves Destroy it before it falls into the hands of the Dark Elves. But it is too late now, and Thomas will not willingly see that armor destroyed." Dougan took a sharp draw on his pipe. "Every winter he dwelt in the depths of Stone Hall, waiting for spring to come, waiting for the carnage to come. Nothing more. Staring at the white snow at the door, nothing but white snow. At this time, he always locked his armor in the bedroom, but on the battlefield, he would never leave his armor even when he was sleeping. It seems that he has really changed, but these The change is not normal at all. No, he's not dropping that armor at all."

"We may compel him," said the Queen, "though it would be unwise to do so. Some mysterious power is breaking into him, and it may save my people, and for their sake I must risk it." Dougan said, "I don't understand what you mean, Her Majesty." "Actually, I don't know what I'm doing, Daogen, but those who are in the flames of war are my people. The vicious enemy is ravaging our home even more. The magic of the other world is too powerful, Even stronger than any magic since the fall of the ancestors. This gift of magic from the dragon will save my people."

Dogen shook his head after hearing this. "This is too strange, this power can still be attached to a pair of armor." Agora Anna smiled at the dwarf. "Why not? Then what is the hammer of Tholin beside you? Hasn't it been endowed with divine power since ancient times? Isn't it this power that made you the king of the dwarves in the West again? throne?" Dougan looked at the Queen uncompromisingly. "Queen, you really know a lot about our situation. I shouldn't forget that you have profound knowledge under your beautiful appearance." He completely ignored the Queen's remarks. "We have waited for a new king for years, since Thoring's death at Mac Mordain Cadal. Until then we were at the behest of Old King Halfdan, as were the dwarves of Dorgin. .But my people want their own king, and decide their own affairs, and of course that's not until the war is over. By the way, how is the boy now?"

Agola Anna looked puzzled. "His current condition can only be described as letting nature take its course. We will help him when he transforms. Our sorcerers have already prepared for the final result. If the power of Valheru rising in Thomas Reconcile, and he'll break through our magic barriers like you did before, and you'd better be more or less the same, or there will be side effects. Fortunately, he has no ancestral blood. Although the Valherus have influenced the nature of later races , but he still stands out. With the help of a sorcerer, his human emotions such as love, compassion, and understanding will temper the unbridled power of Valherus. If so, he may...maybe Bring us a surprise." Under the Queen's gaze, Dogen seemed to be about to say something, but just as he was about to speak, the Queen said, "As long as the hatred in the power of Valheiru, the wildness and brutality are compared with his human abilities Closely bonded, everyone will be in awe of him. Only time will tell what this bond will produce."

"King of dragons...," Dogen said to himself. "There are mentions of the Valherus in our legends, but that's just a few words. If you don't shy away, I'd like to know more." The Queen stared into the distance ecstatically. "Dogen, we have the oldest records of legends in this world, records of the legends of the Verheru people. There are many secrets that I can't tell, such as a powerful and hard-to-reveal real name, and terrifying memories, but I will Tell you as much as possible. In the ancient times before humans and dwarves were born, the Valherus were already the masters of this world. They are an innate part of this world. They have almost god-like power and elusive minds. They are born with a chaotic and repetitive nature. They have unrivaled power. Controlling the giant dragon that has stepped down, there is no place they cannot reach in the universe. They plunder wealth and knowledge from other races. They never uphold the law, they only follow their own whims. They will kill their own race without mercy, and only death can resolve their conflicts. The whole world is in their hands, and we It's just their plaything.

"The elves and the dark elves used to be of the same family. The Valheru people treated our ancestors like you raise livestock. Some of the ancestors were taken away and became their personal pets, living a pampered life. The rest Those who were driven to live in the forest and the wilderness. Those ancestors who lived in the wilderness reproduced the present elves, while those who were left behind by the Valherus became the ancestors of the dark elves. "But with the passage of time, our masters stopped killing each other and united together. The reason why they did this has long been forgotten. Perhaps only a few dark elves know why, because they have closer contact than us. To the master. Later we also gradually learned the reason, but by then the War of Chaos had broken out, and the war had almost destroyed everything. There is only one thing we can be sure of: all the servants of the Valherus were freed, and since then the elves And the dark elves never saw their ancestors again. As the war spread, a huge space-time rift was opened, and goblins, humans, and dwarves came to this world through the rift. At that time, only a few elves and dark elves survived , those remaining elves have rebuilt our homeland. The dark elves are determined to inherit the supreme power from their long-disappeared masters. For this reason, they are willing to embark on a path of destiny that is completely different from that of the elves. They are clever and cunning. The relics of the Valheru people have since embarked on a dark path. This is the difference between us, although we were once brothers. "The ancient magic is still extremely powerful. Thomas obtained this magic power inadvertently with his extraordinary strength and courage. It is due to their greed and desire for power. Thomas has a kind and noble character and a pure soul. I am afraid that he will control this dark force in the future." Daogen scratched his head and said. "Doing what you say may cost you your life. I do care about the boy, but I never bother to think of complicated plans. Maybe you know his situation better than I do, but I don't want to be He held the armor and made us regret it for life." The queen slowly stepped down from the throne. "Dogan, I certainly don't want to leave any regrets. The ancient magic has been weakened a lot after entering Elwanda, and Thomas is no longer irritable. Perhaps that sign shows that we have done nothing wrong. Instead of fighting with that There are two forces facing each other, so we might as well be gentle with it." Dogen bowed deeply. "I bow down to your wisdom, my lord queen. I hope your decisions are correct." The Queen wished them good night and left.Kaling said, "I also hope that my mother's decision is based on her wisdom, not other feelings." "My dear prince, what do you mean by that?" Kaling looked down at the dwarf. "Dogan, you don't want to play around with me. Your wisdom is vast and respectable. You should see it as clearly as I do. There is an unusual relationship growing between my mother and Thomas." Dougan sighed as a light wind blew away the rising smoke from his cigarette butt. "Yes, Kaling, I can see it. Although it's just a glimpse, it's enough." "She'll look at Thomas the way she looked at my father, even though she won't admit it." "Thomas also has a certain idea in his heart," said the dwarf, staring at the elf prince. "And it's not much weaker than your mother's. Nevertheless, he holds it very well." "Dogan, keep an eye on your friend. If he won't give up that armor for the queen, he's in big trouble." "Kalin, that's why you hate him." Kaling looked at Dogen seriously. "No, Dougan. It's not that I hate Thomas... To be precise, I'm worried about him." Kaling was silent for a moment, then said, "In Elwanda we won't bow to anyone else. If my mother If our expectations of Thomas are not fulfilled, we will immediately settle accounts with him." Dogen shook his head slowly. "It's too bad to do this, Karin." "That day will come, Dougan." Kaling left the round table, walked past her mother's throne and left.Only the dwarf was left alone. Daogen looked at the night scene of Elwanda in a daze, praying that the Queen's expectations would not fail. As the wind howled across the field, Ashen-Shugar sat firmly on the sturdy shoulders of the dragon Shuruga.This golden dragon has long been connected with its master.Shall we go hunting?It seems that the dragon has long been hungry. "No, we must wait." While the omnipotent king waited, a long stream of dark elves moved slowly toward a new city.Hundreds of dark elves carried boulders mined from the other side of the world and transported them to the cities that stood on the plains.Countless dark elves died along the way, but none of this mattered, maybe quite the opposite.Eisen-Shuja couldn't help but be troubled by this inexplicable thought. At this time, there was a roar from above, and another giant dragon circled straight down with this menacing roar.Su Lujia raised his head and responded with a roar.Are we going to fight?it asked the master. "No." Essen-Shuja seemed a little disappointed by his mount, but that wasn't something he cared about.He watched the giant dragon gracefully land not far away, and saw it gather a pair of giant wings and lean against its back.Its ebony scales gleamed in the dim sunlight.The man on the dragon's back raised his hand in salute. Essen-Shugar returned the salute with the same gesture, while the dragon moved cautiously towards them.Suluja hissed in alarm.Essen-Shuja inadvertently knocked the giant beast down with his fist.Su Lujia immediately fell silent. "Does the omnipotent king want to be one of us?" asked the new tiger king, Draken-Korin.His tabby armor shone brightly as he flipped off his mount. Essen-Shuja ignored the question and also turned over and got off his mount.His hand never left his sword from beginning to end, and there was no trust among the Verheru people.As usual, they had already wrestled, but this time there were more important things to do.Eisen-Shugar said, "No, I'm just looking." Dalacon-Coyne examined Ethan-Shugar with his impassive pale blue eyes. "Essen-Shugar, you are not allowed to act alone." "It's not the same as going to conquer the universe together, Dalakon-Coyne. Your current plan is too crazy." "What's crazy about that? I don't understand what you mean. We've always been free. Is there any reason for that?" "Because it goes against our principles." "It's really against our principles to have other creatures openly defy our will. Look at those guys, how dare they stand up to us." Eisen-Shugar looked up at the sky. "Yes, it is true. But they are different. Because they are a product of this world just like us." "So what? Haven't you killed too few blood relatives? How much blood have you licked on your lips? It is our eternal destiny to fight you to the death." "Which family will be left in the end, dark elves or elves?" "What the hell are they? They're nothing." "They all belong to us." "Essen-Shugar, it seems that the constant battles have made you more and more strange. They are just our servants. Even if they have true power, they are not qualified to be compared with us. The purpose of their existence Just to please us, that's all. What are you worrying about?" "I don't know. There seems to be a kind of..." "Thomas." At this moment, Thomas seemed to be a man and a god.He shook his head vigorously, and the illusion in front of him suddenly disappeared.He turned his head and saw Ge Yin lying on the bush beside him.An army of elves and dwarves is waiting not far away.The young brother of Prince Kaling pointed to the Tsurani camp on the other side of the river.Thomas followed the gestures of his companions, and saw the soldiers from another world sitting around the campfire talking and laughing. "Looks like they've joined forces," he whispered. Ge Yin nodded in agreement. "They've been teased enough and they're sitting around the campfire to keep warm." On the misty nights of late spring, the Tsurani camp flickered in and out.Even the firelight seemed dim.Thomas looked at the enemy camp opposite again. "There's thirty campfires there, and it looks like there's no less than that number in any of the East and West camps." Ge Yin remained silent, waiting for Thomas to issue an order.Although Ge Yin was the commander of the Elwanda army, it was Thomas who really exercised the command power.As he matured, he became more and more leadership, so subtly he became a real commander.In battle, as long as he gave an order, the elves and dwarves would obey.At first it was just words that were correct and clear.After a long time, people accepted this situation, and now they obey these orders only because they come from Thomas. Thomas motioned for Ge Yin to follow him, and then left the river bank until the two safely walked out of the Tsurani's sight range and came to the forest to meet everyone.Dogen knew that the man in front of him was the boy he had rescued from the deep pit. Thomas's tall figure of more than six feet was not inferior to that of the elf.Sure-footed and confident, he's a born fighter.In the six years he lived with the dwarves, he became a real man... and maybe more than that.Dogen watched him silently as Thomas reviewed the warriors gathered before him, knowing full well that the dark mines in the Gray Tower Mountains would no longer affect Thomas. "The patrol should be back, right?" Dougan nodded, motioning for the patrol to come forward.Three elves and three dwarves stepped forward at once. "Any news about the man in black?" Thomas couldn't help frowning as the patrol shook his head helplessly. "We need to capture one as soon as possible and bring them to Elwanda. Their latest attack has advanced a lot. I want to know how strong they are." Dougan took out his pipe, measuring the distance from the bank so that it would not be seen.Then he lit a cigarette and said, "The posture of those Tsurani soldiers guarding the black-robed man is like a giant dragon guarding treasure." Thomas laughed disapprovingly, causing Dougan to glance at the boy. "Heh, don't forget that we also have a brave dwarf who can overturn the dragon's lair." Ge Yin said, "If their attack is the same as in the past three years, then they will not attack us again after the end of the season. Even if this is the case, we will not see the black-robed man until next spring." Thomas fell into deep thought at once, his gray eyes seemed to be flickering with inspiration. "They're cannibalizing us, they're pressing every step of the way. But as long as they don't cross the river, then we let them do. It's time to change that. As long as we harass them from time to time, that's fine. We'll have a chance to catch a Black Robes." Dogen shook his head vigorously to indicate that Thomas' proposal was too risky.Thomas added with a smile, "Besides, if we can't disrupt the enemy's defenses on the river bank now, then the dwarves and I will have to spend the winter here, because the invaders have penetrated deep into the Green Heart." Ge Yin stared at the burly friend beside him.Today's Thomas is more and more elf-like, and Ge Yin can feel that there is a sense of humor in his words.He knew the queen would be happy to keep Thomas with her.In fact, except for the worrying magical power of Thomas, he is no different from a normal person. "Tell me, how to act?" "Arrange the archers to the right battalion, the left battalion, and the front battalion. I will send out a signal later, and you let the archers shoot arrows across the river. The archers in the front battalion stay still for the time being so that the enemy thinks that the attack is coming from the east and west sides." Thomas sneered. . "Once the enemy's forces are dispersed, we have plenty of time to fight." Ge Yin immediately assigned ten archers to each camp.The rest were ready to attack, and when everyone was ready, Thomas put his hand in his mouth and whistled.After a while he heard the whistling of bows and arrows flying across the river bank from the east and west.The Tsurani soldiers on the opposite bank got up one after another to observe the situation on both sides of the camp, and many soldiers even ran to the bank to look at the dark forest on the opposite side.Thomas lifted his head slowly and then jerked it back. Suddenly the arrows of the elves rained down on the other side of the river, forcing the Tsurani soldiers to hide under their shields.Before they could recover, Thomas had already led a group of dwarves across the shallows.After another burst of arrows, the elves held their longbows behind their backs, drew out their long swords and rushed out after the dwarves, leaving only a group of elves in the rear. Thomas was the first to rush to the opposite bank and quickly cut down a Tsurani soldier who met him.Soon he rushed into the enemy group and slashed and killed the enemy wantonly.His golden sword was stained with the blood of the enemy, and the wailing of the enemy filled the chaotic night. Dogen found that no one dared to stand in his way after defeating the last enemy around him.He turned around and saw Ge Yin stepping on an enemy's corpse and looking into the distance.The dwarf followed his gaze and saw Thomas trampling a wounded Tsurani soldier underfoot, the bloodstained soldier raising his arms begging for forgiveness.The aloof Thomas had a frantic expression on his face.With a strange and terrified scream, he stabbed the golden sword and ended the life of the Tsurani soldier.Immediately he turned around, looking for more enemies.Until there were no more enemies standing in front of him, it was as if his soul had come out of his shell in an instant, but soon his eyes regained their brilliance. Daogen's shout reached Ge Yin's ears at this time, "The enemy is coming." Those Tsurani soldiers who found out that they had been deceived were rushing from other camps shouting. Thomas immediately led the crowd across the river.When the archers of Tsurani shot at them, the crowd reached the opposite bank, and the elves in the rear immediately responded to the enemy.Everyone quickly retreated to the depths of the forest, leaving the enemy far behind. As soon as they stopped, the elves and dwarves fell to the ground and gasped for breath, calming down the surging fighting enthusiasm that remained in their bodies.Ge Yin looked at Thomas and said, "The raid was a success. We retreated completely, only a few people suffered some skin trauma, but we eliminated 30 invaders." Thomas didn't laugh but fell into deep thought, as if he was listening to something.It took him a while to turn around and look at Ge Yin, it seemed that the elf's words reached his ears. "Well, everyone has done a good job, but we still have to continue. Tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, we will attack the enemy round after round until the enemy is forced to take action." When night fell, it was time for them to cross the river and sneak attack.They will erratically raid enemy camps.Maybe one night it's all right, but then the same camp is raided three days later.Sometimes a cold arrow would kill the Tsurani guards on duty on the shore, and the guards who replaced them were never plotted against again.They had chosen to attack just before dawn, when the enemy let down their vigilance.What's more, they crossed the enemy's camp and went deep into the southern forest to plunder the enemy's supplies, kill those strange six-legged beasts and destroy the enemy's convoy.Only five battles encountered on the way back cost them two dwarves and three elves. Now Thomas and his three hundred men of elves and dwarves were resting in place, waiting for news from the other camps.They also took the opportunity to enjoy the delicacy of venison stew. At the same time, a messenger walked in front of Thomas and Ge Yin. "The frontline king has the latest news." Behind him was a man in gray standing by the campfire. Thomas and Ge Yin stood up immediately. "Well, it's Long Leon from Natal," the elf greeted. "Ge Yin," the tall ranger in black animal skin responded. An elf brought bread and broth to the two visitors, and after the two sat down, Thomas said, "What's new with the Duke?" The ranger chewed his mouthful of food and said, "Lord Borric asked me to greet you. They are in a difficult situation now. Those Tsurani are slowly advancing in the east like moss on a tree. They come and go, it seems No rush at all. The Duke reckons they'll reach the coast next year, and by then they'll have isolated some of the free cities from the north. Then they'll attack Zun or LaMut. Who can Are you right?" Thomas pressed, "How's the situation in Kared?" "Just before I left, a carrier pigeon reported. His Royal Highness Arusha has quickly organized forces to resist the Tsurani army. Their situation is not much better than here. But they have crossed the Green Heart and are advancing south. "After speaking, he moved his eyes to those dwarves and Thomas. "I'm surprised you made it to Elwanda safely," said Dougan, smoking his pipe. "This journey is not easy. Otherwise we have to sneak quietly. Now the enemy is like a frightened bird. I am afraid that it may not be easy for us to return to the mountains. Once there is a chance, the enemy will not easily give up the achievements." Thomas walked slowly to the fire. "How did you get past the enemy sentries?" "Your sneak attack has thrown the enemy into disarray. The enemy on the western front had to retreat to the river. I easily followed a group of enemies. They never thought there was a tail behind them. I took advantage of their retreat. Slip past the line and cross the river again." Ge Yin asked, "How many troops did they bring to deal with us?" Leon shrugged helplessly. "There are six companies in the one I saw, and it should be more than this number." Everyone estimated that each Tsurani company should be composed of twenty small teams of thirty people each. Thomas slapped his gloved palms sharply. "The fact that they brought back more than 3,000 people can only mean that the enemy is going to forcefully cross the river again. They will definitely try to trap us firmly in the forest so that we can no longer harass us." He walked slowly to the Ranger behind. "Did you see the man in black coming with you?" "There should be one of the enemies I'm following." Thomas clapped his hands knowingly. "The enemy is coming very aggressively this time. Hurry up and send a message to each camp. Within two days, all the leaders of Elwanda will gather at the imperial court, and the patrols and messengers will continue to monitor the enemy's movement." The messengers sitting around the campfire got up and hurried away to deliver news to the elves who stood on the river bank near Kared. Essen-Shugar sat on the Iron Throne, completely ignoring the dancer in front of him. Those beautiful and elegant female dark elves could not move his heart at the moment. His thoughts had already drifted far away, searching for something worthwhile Fighting. At the same time, there was an inexplicable feeling of emptiness in the depths of his heart. It is often called mournful, a voice rang in his heart. Eisen-Shugar mused, "Who are you and why are you bothering me?" I am your future.Everything in front of me is just a dream, a memory. Essen-Shugar quickly drew his sword and stood up from the throne, roaring to vent his anger.The music stopped in an instant, and the dancers, attendants, and musicians knelt down in front of the master. "I am me! There are no dreams!" You are just a distant memory in my heart, the voice rang again.We will eventually become one. Essen-Shuja raised the long sword in his hand and swung it down angrily.In an instant, the head of a trembling servant fell to the ground.Essen-Shugar knelt down on one knee and covered his hands in a pool of blood.He wiped his bloody fingers over his lips, and the salty taste of blood made him hiss, "Isn't this the taste of life!" This is nothing but an illusion.Everything has long since become history. "I always feel that there is a weird but inexpressible feeling that is tormenting me." It is fear. Essen-Shugar swung his sword again, and a dancer fell. "And only these things are scary. What have I got to do with fear?" Because you are worried.All living beings are afraid of change, even the gods. "Who the hell are you?" the Valheru asked in a low voice. You and I are one.I am your future.Also your past.I, Thomas. The noise from downstairs brought Thomas back to reality.He got up and left his hut, and walked across the tree bridge to the outside of the imperial court.Dimly visible through the fence were hundreds of dwarves stationed around Elwanda.He just stood there staring at the campfires.Hundreds of elves and dwarf warriors flock to this army led by him at every moment.Tomorrow he will announce his battle plan to Kaling, Tathar, Dogan and everyone in the council. During his six years in combat, Thomas had been estranged from the dreams that haunted him.Whenever a fight drove him out of his mind, he would break into that person's dreams.Whenever he was far away from the elf forest, those dreams made him more difficult to resist.As always, he wasn't afraid of the stuff.On the contrary, some dusty dreams made him stronger.He was full of powers now, and at his command, for they were as one with him as they belonged to the armor's former master.Thomas knows that he is no longer the kid living in Kared, but where will he go...? There was a sound of light footsteps behind him.Without looking back, he said, "Good evening, Queen." The elf queen stepped forward and stood beside him with a solemn expression. "You're sensitive like an elf now," she said in her own language. "Indeed, Shining Moon," he replied in the same elvish language, addressing her in an ancient language. He turned his head and saw her eyes full of surprise.She reached out and stroked his face gently. "Now, you who speak fluent Elvish, are you really that shy boy who stood at a loss for me in the duke's council hall? He slowly removed her hand. "As you can see, I am still the original me." His tone was firm and majestic. She looked at him, and the terror looming on his face made her shudder. "But how do I see you, Thomas?" He still said to himself, "Madam, why do you always avoid me?" she answered slowly. "Because of the forbidden feeling between you and me. Thomas, it has been born between you and me since the moment you came." A mischievous smile flashed across Thomas's face, and he said, "It's more than that, in fact I felt that way the first time I saw you." He stood upright in front of her. "What's so taboo about this feeling? Who is more qualified to be by your side than me?" She moved away in a panic, and she seemed absent-minded for a moment.At that moment, he saw a scene that had almost never appeared before: the noble elf queen would be so confused and bewildered about her own wisdom. "No matter what excuses you have, you are still a human being. No matter how powerful you gain, you cannot surpass the boundaries of human beings. I will rule here until my soul and my long-gone husband meet in God's Blessed Island Yes. Then Prince Kaling will succeed and become the new king. He will continue to lead my people." Thomas reached out and twisted around her. "But nothing is absolute." A look of horror flashed across her eyes. "No, we can't be as free as ordinary people." At this moment, she had vaguely felt that he was getting irritable, but the calm tone showed that he was still trying his best to endure. "Don't you have any feelings for me?" She took a step back unconsciously. "You'd be lying to say there wasn't one. But it makes me indecisive and fearful. If you end up dehumanized and become a puppet of the Valheru, you are no longer welcome here. We will never allow our ancestors to live again. " Thomas laughed helplessly. "When I was a child, I had a youthful desire for you. Now I will pursue you as a man. Could it be that that power gave me the courage to teach me how to pursue you, but it also became an obstacle to the union between you and me? Agora Anna held her cheek with one hand. “我说不清楚。别的皇室家族从没有出现你我这种情况。他们至多只和人类结成联盟。我尤其不想在你暮暮老矣而我却容颜依旧的时候独自哀伤。” 汤玛士顿时目光如炬，近乎嘶叫道。“夫人，这种事情永远不会发生。在这里我的生命之火将绵绵不息。我可以向你保证。但是现在我不会在这个问题上再打扰你直到我们击退眼前的敌人。 阿戈拉安娜，我们命中注定会永远在一起。你慢慢就会明白的。” 她一手遮着嘴惊讶伫立在原地，眼中噙着泪花。汤玛士言毕就径直地走开了，只留下她一人待在大厅中思量着他刚才所说的话。在她的夫君逝去多年后的今天她首次感到了两种截然不同的心情：恐惧、渴望。 一声从林间传出的报信声吸引着汤玛士转过身子。一名精灵信步走出森林身后跟着一名衣着朴素的男人。汤玛士草草地结束了与卡凌及道根的谈话，三人跟在那名被引荐的陌生人身后一同踏进了皇廷。阿戈拉安娜此时端坐在王座上，长老们都分坐在她两边的长椅上。而塔挞则站立在女王身边。 陌生人走近王座微微地一欠身。塔挞冲那名护送陌生人的守卫使了个眼色，可精灵却神情茫然。那名褐衣人突然开口道，“您好，尊敬的女王，”俨然一口标准的精灵语。 阿戈拉安娜庄严地回应道。“陌生人，你的行为太冒失了。” 那人倚着拐杖微笑道。“我这个不速之客为进入埃尔旺达可是特地找了位向导。” 塔挞说道，“恐怕那位向导没多少选择的余地。” 那人接口道，“其实选择往往都在不经意之间。” 汤玛士此时跻身上前。“你到这来有何贵干？” 陌生人循声转身，笑道。“喔！想必这位就是巨龙之赐的拥有者。很荣幸见到你，卡瑞德的汤玛士。” 汤玛士惊得向后一退。那人双目炯炯有神，汤玛士能感觉到他举手投足之间散发出的力量。 "who are you?" 陌生人说道，“我有不少名字，如今我被称作黑衣人麦克罗斯（Macros the Black）。”言毕，他举起拐杖一一指过众人。“因为你们正筹划着一项冒险的计划，所以我赶来了。”最后他的拐杖停在汤玛士面前。然后他重新拄起拐杖。 “如果没有我的协助，你们那个准备俘虏黑袍者的计划只会将埃尔旺达带向毁灭。”他轻蔑地一笑。“你们会如愿地抓到黑袍者，但是现在时机未到。”他暗示道。 阿戈拉安娜猝然起立。她挺起身子，双目注视着来客。“看来你知道不少事情。” 麦克罗斯微微点头道。“不错，我的确知道很多，多得足以让人雀跃。”他从她面前走过将手搭在汤玛士的肩上。引导着汤玛士走向女王附近的椅子，麦克罗斯轻轻一摁汤玛士的肩膀示意他坐下。随后他落座在汤玛士身边，将拐杖依在肩头。他盯着女王说道，“簇朗尼军在黎明时分就会进攻，他们的目标直指埃尔旺达。” 塔挞踱到麦克罗斯面前问道，“你是怎么得到这个消息的？” 麦克罗斯微微一笑。“难道你不记得曾经和你父亲一起在议会见过我？” 塔挞后退一步，眼睛瞪得浑圆。“难道你就是……” “我就是他，尽管我早已遗弃了那个名字。” 塔挞满脸困惑。“年代相隔如此遥远。这怎么可能？” 麦克罗斯回应道，“事实就是如此。”他犀利的目光从女王身上转移到汤玛士身上。 阿戈拉安娜缓缓坐下，极力掩饰着自己的不安。“你是个巫师吗？” 麦克罗斯平静地点了点头，“人如其名，不过大部分事迹都是些乡野传说罢了。那么你愿意听我说下去了吗？” 塔挞冲女王放心地点了点头。“很久以前，这个人就来帮助过我们。尽管我不清楚着两者为何是同一个人，但可以确信他的确是你我父亲的密友。我们应该信任他。” “那你有何高见呢？”女王问道。 “簇朗尼的法师早已发现了你们所设的岗哨，清楚地知道它们所隐藏的每个位置。黎明一到，敌人就会呈犄角之阵分成两波渡河。当你们和敌军一打照面，就会出现一只由乔迦组成的部队突击你们最薄弱的腹地。你们之前从未和这支力量交锋过，不过矮人会告诉你们那些生物的战斗力有多强。” 道根迈步上前接口道。“不错，夫人。它们的确是一群可怕的生物，它们能和我们一样在黑暗中作战。我还以为它们依旧驻守在矿坑中。” 麦克罗斯说道，“在你们偷袭敌营之前，情况大抵如此。如今敌人已经抽调了许多乔迦到这里，准备避开你们的巡逻队大举渡河。它们这次的进攻将会来势汹汹。簇朗尼人早已厌倦了你们的偷袭，他们将在这次的渡河作战中与你们做个了结。敌人的法师已经费心研究了埃尔旺达的种种奥秘，如今他们确信只要击破精灵之森的圣心，精灵们就不会再对他们构成威胁。 汤玛士说道，“那我们就按兵不动，坚守腹地。” 麦克罗斯默默地坐在一旁，若有所思的样子。“那还仅仅是个序幕，此外他们的法师这次也随军一同出征，看来敌人真的要决一死战了。那些法师会协助他们的战士躲避你们的颂术师设立的结界穿越森林。他们不久就会抵达这里。” 阿戈拉安娜说道，“那我们就在这里恭候他们，战斗到最后一刻。” 麦克罗斯赞赏地点点头。“说得好，夫人，我会协助你们。” 道根打量着巫师。“就你一人能有什么作为？” 麦克罗斯起身说道。“大有用场。到明天你自会明白。矮人，不必担心。尽管战斗会异常惨烈，会有很多人魂赴神佑之岛，但只要我们有着必胜的信念，我们定会获胜。” 汤玛士说道，“依你的口气似乎你早已目睹了这一切的发生。” 麦克罗斯露出一丝笑容，目光让人捉摸不定。“汤玛士，你说呢？”他轻拂着拐杖转身面向其他人说道，“众人请做好准备。我会与你们同在。”他又向女王说道，“我想休息一会儿，这里有合适的地方吗？” 女王看向那个引领麦克罗斯进来的精灵。“带他去房间休息，尽量满足他的要求。” 巫师恭敬地鞠了一躬，尾随着向导离去。众人静静地待在原地，直到汤玛士开口，“我们得快些准备了。” 时至破晓，女王独自一人站在王座旁。在她统治的多年里，她从未如此急切过。远久如儿时的记忆，近至最近几天发生的事情，从她的脑海中一一浮现。 “夫人，想从过去寻求答案吗？” 她转过头只见巫师正拄着拐杖站在她身后。他说完就走到女王身边。 “你竟能够看穿我的思想？，巫师。” 麦克罗斯笑着挥挥手道，“怎么会呢，夫人。我只是比你们多知多见些罢了。到是您现在显得心神疲惫。” “你知道原因吗？” 麦克罗斯轻轻一笑。“即使您不问起我也会和您谈这些事情。” “为什么？巫师。你到底是什么身份？” 麦克罗斯望着闪耀在埃尔旺达四周的灵光。“只不过是个世间凡人而已。” “你应该最了解自己。” “确切地说。我是为那些迷茫的人指明方向。那就是我的宿命。” “你为什么要来这里？” “因为这里需要我。没有我的协助埃尔旺达就会陨落，然而这决不允许发生。其实一切都是命中注定的，我只不过是履行自己的那份责任。” “如果我们赢了你会留下吗？” “恐怕不会，我还有别的任务。哪一天这里又需要我了，我会再一次回来。” “那一刻何时会到来？” “这我可不能告诉您。” “会很快吗？” “也许很快，也许要过很久。” “你的话实在让人费解。” 麦克罗斯晦涩地笑道。“生命本就捉摸不定。被众神把玩在指间。当他们的意志一占上风，许多凡夫俗子就会发现自己的生命从此与众不同。” “你暗示的是汤玛士？”阿戈拉安娜紧紧盯着巫师黑色的双瞳。 “当然是他，也只有他能经受得住种种变故。” “他将来会怎样？” “你希望他变成什么样子？” 精灵女王顿时语塞。麦克罗斯轻轻地将手搭在她的肩上。从他的指间她感到了短暂的平静，她自语道，“我当然不希望灾难降临到我的子民身上，但是他那挥之不去的身影让我充满期盼。我渴望着一名与他一样强大的男人出现。虽然汤玛士自己还不清楚但他真的与我那位逝去的夫君很像。而且他让我放心不下，因为一旦我立下誓言委身于他，那我就再也没有资格统治这里。你认为长老们会同意吗？我的子民也不会愿意再次套上凡尔黑茹人的枷锁。” 巫师沉默了一会儿，随后说道，“尽管我自信学识渊博，可还是有被蒙蔽的地方。但我清楚一点：盘踞在这里的魔力远比想象中的强大。我难以解释其中奥妙只觉得它是穿越时空来到这个尘世。与此同时汤玛士与凡尔黑茹人的灵魂已经在各自的时空之中彼此交织在一起。 “汤玛士继承的就是那位末代巨龙之王埃森-舒迦的铠甲。在混沌之战爆发后，他却置身于战事之外。因为一种前所未有的感觉侵袭着他。” “与汤玛士有关？” 麦克罗斯笑道。“夫人，别把心思都放在汤玛士身上。看来我那些似是而非的话让您误会了。埃森-舒迦在那一刻感觉到了庇护这个世界的义务。” 阿戈拉安娜注视着麦克罗斯那张被埃尔旺达的闪烁光辉映衬着的脸庞。“巫师，你对上古传说的了解程度让人无法企及。” “我能知道那么多的确有幸，夫人。”他俯瞰着精灵之森自言自语的说道。“汤玛士接受试炼的时刻即将到来。我不知道届时会发生何种情况，但我确信麻烦一定会接踵而来。不知何故这个来自卡瑞德的青年凭借着他对您以及您的子民的爱，凭借着他那纯朴的同情心，迄今为止抵抗着那个来自于曾经是这个世上最强大种族的一员的挑战。而且你们的颂术师也施展着法术协助他忍受两种天性的冲突带来的痛楚。” 她冷冷地盯着麦克罗斯。“这个你也知道？” 他坦诚地笑着。“夫人，对于这我还是很有信心的。你们以为谨慎地施法就能瞒住人的话那我也太不济了。说实话在这个世上还没多少法术能逃过我的双眼。你们用魔法协助汤玛士是个明智的决定，或许这样有助于平息他的心中的冲突。” “当时我也是这样说服自己的，”阿戈拉安娜平静地说道，“那时候我总希望汤玛士也能够成为一名领袖，就像那位在我年轻时就已经逝去的夫君一般。这会成真吗？” “当然，只要他能经受住试炼。汤玛士和埃森-舒迦将在这场斗争中做出最后的了结。一旦汤玛士获胜，您对他的期望就会实现。 “现在我得告诉您一些只有诸神和我才知道的秘密。我常能对许多未来的事物作出预测，不过依旧有许多是我难以预测的。但有一件事我很清楚：当汤玛士的冲动被睿智取代，当他体内不羁的力量被他的那颗人类之心安抚下去之时，他就会如您所愿地成为一名精明干练的领袖。但如果他被你们放逐，那么整个王国和西境的自由之民都会遭到灭顶之灾。” 见她眼中流露出不解的神情，他继续说道，“夫人，我并不能确定未来是真会否暗无边际，我只是做出臆测。或许他会在苏醒的强大力量中沉沦继而踏上邪恶之途，如此一来他就成了祸端，注定会被毁灭。缘由就是你们光注意了他战斗时的疯狂却忽视了真正笼罩着他的邪恶阴影。抑或他体内的平衡被打破他的人性最终获得了胜利却遭到你们的放逐，那么人性中的愤怒、痛苦以及复仇的感觉就会接踵而来。我倒是要问您：假如汤玛士遭到驱逐而唤醒了北境的巨龙，会导致什么样的结果？” 显然女王对他的话震惊万分，但她却没有因此而失态。“那样暗精灵就会集聚在一起。” “不错，夫人。这将不再是以往对抗盗匪的小打小闹，而是会面临真正的大军。毁灭与野性的欲望将会诱惑着你们那两万名暗黑血亲，以及跟随着他们的数十万地精大军和一群堕入黑暗的人类。而你们现在唯命是从的那位勇士将会成为这支大军的统帅。” “你在暗示我不能放他走？” “我只是将选择摆在你面前。你必须做出自己的决定。” 精灵女王抬头远眺着埃尔旺达，红铜色的长发迎风飘扬，在她的眼角却噙着泪花。黎明的曙光从天际闪现。一道道和绚的阳光纷纷射向森林，将倒影映衬成墨蓝色。林地间处处可闻飞鸟的啼鸣。她刚转过身想向提出忠告的麦克罗斯致谢，却发现他早已离开。 诚如麦克罗斯所预言的，簇朗尼人开始大举进攻。在簇朗尼人推进到两翼之后，乔迦开始强行渡河。汤玛士之前预备的一支由散兵和有盾兵守卫的弓箭手组成的先遣队且战且退，佯作抵抗。 汤玛士站在由全副武装的埃尔旺达精灵和来自灰塔的矮人组成的队伍之前，这区区一百五十名战士却要对抗六千名入侵者和他们的法师帮手。此时众人唯有静静地等待着。随着簇朗尼军队的节节逼近，森林中不时传出敌人遭伏受伤的叫骂声。汤玛士抬头望向女王，只见她正站在阳台上准备迎接这场恶战，而法师则站在她身边。 突然一群精灵冲出森林跑向他们，森林中已经闪现出了簇朗尼士兵鲜艳的铠甲。就在先遣队与主力会合之后，汤玛士举起手中的长剑。“稍等片刻，”从他上方传来一声叫喊，只见法师伸手指向前方的一片空地，第一批簇朗尼士兵已经出现在那里。面对早已整装的精灵，这支前锋部队停止了推进，在长官的命令下整备完队形开始等待他们的同伴。他们很清楚当两军在这片旷野中对垒时，胜利的天平将会倾向他们一边。 同时在长官的呼喊下乔迦也加入到队列之中。汤玛士顿生好奇心，因为他至今对这些生物只知皮毛，对于这些野兽他只知道它们是簇朗尼人的忠实盟友。 “再等片刻！”麦克罗斯又一次叫到，说完他舞动起拐杖，在头顶画着圆弧。登时整片林间空地寂静无声。 忽然一只猫头鹰从汤玛士头顶掠过，直直的向簇朗尼军队那里飞去。它在那群异乡人的上空盘旋了一会儿，随后猛地向一名士兵的脸上扑去。它狠狠地抓着士兵的双眼疼得他不住尖叫。 又是一只猎鹰迅速地掠过做着和猫头鹰一样的攻击。很快又有一团黑影从天空降下。一群麻雀从簇朗尼人身后森林中窜出纷纷啄着敌人的脸和没有保护的手臂。各种各样的飞禽从森林中接连飞出攻击起这群侵略者。刹时间到处都是各种鸟扑腾翅膀的声音，它们蜂拥向簇朗尼士兵。数以千计的飞鸟，小至蜂雀大如老鹰都毫不留情地攻击着这群异乡人。簇朗尼士兵的咒骂声此起彼伏，更有甚者跑出了队列只为不让飞鸟的尖喙和利爪再次招呼他们的眼睛，扯拉他们的斗篷和撕扯他们的皮肉。乔迦此时也是暴跳如雷，尽管它们身体在铠甲的保护下幸免于飞鸟的尖喙和利爪，可是它们斗大的双眼却成了最易被鸟群攻击的目标。 就在簇朗尼人的战线瓦解的一刹那，一声怒吼从精灵那边传出。汤玛士一声令下，精灵弓箭手纷纷将手中的箭射向混乱不堪的敌人。可怜的簇朗尼士兵还没来得及和敌人交锋就已纷纷中箭倒地。他们的弓箭手此时正和头顶上成百的敌人周旋根本无暇顾及反击。 精灵们远远观望着簇朗尼士兵狼狈地整理着队形，而鸟群依旧猛烈地攻击着敌人。簇朗尼的每个士兵都尽其所能地做着反击，虽然他们击落了一大片飞鸟，可是依旧有飞鸟源源不断补充进来。 突然一记尖厉的嘶鸣声划破这慌乱的场面。簇朗尼人那边的混乱似乎立刻暂停了。一股莫名的能量在鸟群中炸裂开，随着一阵噼啦的声响，鸟群瞬间被打散。伴随着飞鸟的散去，汤玛士发现簇朗尼的黑袍法师从军队后方走上前排，还一边整顿着军纪。虽然地上已经躺倒了数百名受伤的簇朗尼士兵，但是那些久经战事的异乡人很快就重新整顿了队列，全然不受伤员的影响。 鸟儿再次在入侵者的头顶聚集成群，开始了第二波的攻击。一道闪耀着红光的能量护盾迅速将簇朗尼士兵包围其中。正在攻击的鸟儿纷纷僵落到地上，它们的羽毛燃起了火焰，空气中弥漫着烧焦后的恶臭。精灵的弓箭在触到那层护盾之后同样燃烧着从半空中掉落，构不成丝毫的威胁。 汤玛士立即示意停止射箭转身看着麦克罗斯。巫师再次喊道，“稍等片刻！” 麦克罗斯舞动手中的拐杖无声地驱散了鸟群。随后将拐杖直指保护着簇朗尼士兵的护盾。一道金色的闪电迸射出去。穿越空地刺穿了红色的护盾，击中一名黑袍者的胸膛。那名法师蜷曲着倒在地上，夹杂着恐惧和愤怒的叫声从一旁整装待发的簇朗尼士兵中传出。剩下的法师将注意力全部集中到了精灵大军上方的平台上，与此同时数个散着蓝焰火球齐射向麦克罗斯。就在那些蓝色的火球射向平台的同时汤玛士狂躁地叫道，“阿戈拉安娜！”，她的身影消失在令人眩目的爆炸中。很快他就恢复了视力 只见巫师和女王安然无恙地站在平台之上。这时塔挞将女王拉到一边，麦克罗斯再次伸出他的拐杖。另一名黑袍者随即倒地。剩下的四名法师看到毫发无损的麦克罗斯时显露出的敬畏和愤怒的神情被众人远远地看在眼中。他们加大了攻击的力度，一波接一波的蓝色闪电和火焰飞向麦克罗斯的护盾。众人被刺眼的光芒逼得不敢正视，生怕双眼被这些可怕的能量弄瞎。在猛烈的魔法攻击终止之后，汤玛士抬头望去，只见巫师依旧毫无损伤地站在原地。 一名法师懊恼地哼了一声随即从怀中掏出一样法器。随着法器的启动，他瞬间消失了身影，剩下的三名法师也陆续跟随前者而去。此时麦克罗斯低头看向汤玛士，将手中的拐杖指向簇朗尼军队，命令道，“时机已到！” 汤玛士举起手中的长剑发出进攻的讯号。就在他带头冲出去的同时利箭如冰雹般从他头顶掠过砸向敌人。先是遭到鸟群攻击而使得进攻受挫而后又亲眼目睹了法师被轻而易举的打败驱逐，此时的簇朗尼士兵士气异常的低落。时已至此他们只好待在原地迎接奔袭而来的对手。数百名簇朗尼士兵已经倒在了飞鸟的利爪和尖喙之下，然而更多的是被飞箭所射杀，即使如此他们在数量上依旧压倒精灵和矮人。 在这激战正酣的时刻，汤玛士彻底沉浸在了杀戮之中。他在簇朗尼人中左劈右刺一路畅通无阻，敌人的任何攻击都被他化解于无形。任何出现在他面前的生物无论是簇朗尼士兵还是乔迦都无一幸免地倒在他那致命长剑下。 随着双方人员不断地倒下整条战线时进时退。此时已经是烈日当空，战况更是愈演愈烈。空气中弥漫着死亡的气息，秃鹫和鸢鹞虎视眈眈地盘旋在天空中。 簇朗尼军队开始缓缓地将精灵和矮人们逼退逐渐向埃尔旺达的腹地逼近。就在双方的势力趋于平衡之时，胶着在一起的两只军队忽然都停止了攻击向后一撤，一条空档出现在对峙的双方之间。汤玛士可以清晰地听见巫师的声音响彻在战场上空。“往回撤！”，埃尔旺达军这才如梦方醒地向后撤退。 精灵和矮人们在撤退时的踌躇让簇朗尼人犹豫了一会儿，但这并没有阻止他们继续挺进。突然大地震颤，传出隆隆的声响。所有人都停下了脚步，簇朗尼人脸上浮现出恐惧的表情。 汤玛士看见树木纷纷颤抖不已，而且随着大地的震动更加剧烈。一记犹如闷雷划过长空般的声音越来越响。随着这记急剧的响声，一大片土块升腾到空中，就像是被一只无形巨手从底下托起。站在其上的簇朗尼士兵也一并被抛出去，重重地摔在地上，而站在边上的士兵同样不能幸免，被直挺挺地撞开。紧接着又是一大片土块升腾起来，然后又是第三块。很快空中就浮满巨大的土块，不一会儿这些土块纷纷砸向簇朗尼士兵。顿时哀号四起，簇朗尼的士兵拼命向后逃窜，不然他们只能毫无招架地被土块攻击。当汤玛士再向战场望去的时候，那里除了死人和伤员之外已经别无他物。 众人都被眼前的场景惊得哑口无言，整个战场静寂无声，漂浮的土块此时都已经掉落。簇朗尼人逃窜的声音不时从森林里传出。从那惊恐的叫喊声可以听出他们在撤退的时候一定又碰上可怕的攻击了。 汤玛士感到阵阵倦意向他袭来，他低头才发现自己的双臂沾满了血污。而他的披风和盾牌以及金色的长剑却依旧亮丽如新，此时他首次感到人性还激荡在他体内。在埃尔旺达战斗时的狂乱并没有继续困扰他，而他的内心却有种莫名的失落感。 他转过身子轻声说道，“战斗结束了。”精灵和矮人们无精打采地欢呼了几声，大家都没有居为胜利者的那种喜悦。他们都亲眼所见了一支强大的军队是如何被一股难以致信的超自然力量所打败的。 汤玛士缓缓从卡凌和道根的身边走过拾级而上。精灵王子派遣了一部分士兵尾随撤退的敌人，让他们沿途照料受伤的盟友和给那些垂死的簇朗尼士兵最后的解脱。 汤玛士径直走向自己那间小屋，将门帘撩到一旁。他重重地往垫子上一座，将长剑和盾牌卸了下来。头颅中的隐隐作痛逼得他只能闭目养神。脑海中又涌现出一幕幕的回忆。 天空被地平线上翻腾着的能量漩涡撕出一道道口子。埃森-舒迦端坐在巨龙苏卢迦坚实的背上，静静地注视着时空的基底被无情地撕裂。 远方响起嘹亮的号角声，凭借着法力他预感到了号角声的寓意。他等待的那一刻终于到来。埃森-舒迦驱使巨龙抬起身子，双目紧盯着天空，搜寻着即将出现的目标。就在他发现猎物的同时，他的坐骑苏卢迦猛然亢奋起来。达拉肯-科因骑在黑色巨龙上的身影已经依稀可辨。此时的埃森-舒迦眼中露出一丝奇异的神色，长久以来他首次体会到恐惧的含义。虽然他还难以为其命名，难以描述这种感觉，但是他真切地看到它出现在达拉肯-科因那双畸形的眼中。 埃森-舒迦驾驭着苏卢迦迎上前去。黄金巨龙咆哮着向对方挑战，达拉肯-科因跨下的黑色巨龙也毫不示弱地回应着。两条巨龙绞缠在空中，它们的主人同样打得不可开交。 埃森-舒迦高举金剑奋力劈下，顺势就将对手那块镶着狰狞虎头的黑色盾牌一劈为二。埃森-舒迦明白这对他来说简直是轻而易举。达拉肯-科因嚣张的气焰顿时荡然无存。在最后一个凡尔黑如人盛气凌人的气势下，他无疑是个渺小的凡人。埃森-舒迦的攻击一次比一次猛烈，终使得他的兄弟招架不住从自己的黑色坐骑上跌落，一头栽落在地上。埃森-舒迦用意念驱使着身体离开自己的坐骑，漂浮在达拉肯-科因那具无望的躯体边上，至于那条垂死的黑龙则留给苏卢迦去解决。 一丝生命之火依然残存在眼前这具伤痕累累的躯体之中，之前他还充满了活力。当埃森-舒迦靠近的时候，达拉肯-科因的眼中流露出愤恨不平的神色。他低语到，“这是为什么？” 埃森-舒迦将手中的金色长剑直指天际，说道，“这猥亵的罪行不容饶恕。你将我们所知的万物带入了毁灭之途。” 达拉肯-科因看着天空中埃森-舒迦所指的地方。只见狂乱翻腾的能量和绞绕尖叫的幻影穿透了苍穹。他兄弟姐妹们的那些绞缠在一起充满愤怒和憎恶的灵魂让他再次感到了恐惧。 达拉肯-科因嗓音嘶哑地说道，“他们太强大了。强大得出乎我们的预料。”他的面孔扭曲成恐怖的样子让人憎恶不已，此时埃森-舒迦已经举起了手中的长剑。“但是真理在我手中！”他吼道。 埃森-舒迦挥下手中的利剑，干净利落地砍下了达拉肯-科因的脑袋。刹那间，死者的头和躯干被一束光芒吞没，围绕在埃森-舒迦周身的空气嘶嘶作响。眼前的对手如今彻底从世间消失了，他的灵魂将和他的亲族们汇合一同去抗争新的神明。埃森-舒迦略带伤感地说道，“哪有什么真理。力量才是一切。” 这就是结局？ “对，我就是这样亲手结束了最后一名兄弟的生命。” What about the rest? “他们早已成了那个东西的一部分。”他指向那片可怕的天空。 从混沌之战伊始他们就这样高高在上地注视着疯狂的尘世，彼此永不分离。一番休整之后，埃森-舒迦说道，“快跟上，一切都已结束，让我们再为它画上个完美的休止符。” 言毕，他们走向早已等候着的苏卢迦。此时一声甜美的嗓音响起。 “难得见你这么闲适。” 汤玛士循声睁开眼睛。只见阿戈拉安娜正捧着一盆浸泡着香药的清水和毛巾跪在他面前。她为他脱掉披风，帮助他卸掉金色铠甲。