Dragonsbane: Cryaaron’s Calling

In the northern most regions of the known world, Norgland Mountain stands as a beacon of nature’s marvel, and within its depths, is home to the ancient Dwarven stronghold of Kairgrath. The dwarves of Kairgrath enjoy the solitude, protection, and most notably, the riches the mountain provides, and see little reason to venture far from home. Stories of such treasure, precious stones and metals, and Hammerstaal, the legendary forge, have drawn many of wary travelers to the gates of Kairgrath, including a man of unparalleled character and prominence, Cryaaron, Lord of the Calling and leader of the 10 kingdoms of man.

The Calling is a collection of the realm’s most decorated warriors, one appointed from each kingdom of man, and led by Cryaaron of Valkuron, the largest and most illustrious of mankind’s kingdoms. The calling’s journey to Kairgrath is one of great urgency and importance, as reported sightings and stories of Modrag’s return, spread quickly across the land. Modrag, the father of dragons, had brought terror to the world of man just a few decades ago, and extinguished through flame and fury, thousands including Cryaaron’s father, and former member of the calling, Thogun and his longsword, peacekeeper. It was with Peacekeeper that Thogun was able to land a decisive blow to Modrag, before he and sword were reduced to ash and alloy, that drove the beast back into the abyss.

Cryaaron knew that a weapon more powerful than peacekeeper would be necessary to deal with Modrag, and no other than Sprixx, the blacksmith of Hammerstaal, could cultivate such a creation. Once the calling had reached the great mountain’s basin, Cryaaron ordered them to set up camp and await his return. As told by his father before, those seeking Sprixx’s services, must come alone, and with payment that surpasses the need and purpose of the journey itself. Knowing this, Cryaaron brought with him a moon pearl, a rare and powerful relic, which brings light to darkness and scatters evil from the wielder’s path. Sprixx’s feats of forging are only surpassed by his desire for the exquisite, and a moon pearl would most certainly satisfy.

Once at the gates of Kairgrath, the guards granted Cryaaron’s immediate entry. Word of the calling’s journey to Norgland had preceded their arrival, along with tales of Modrag’s return. Like most dragons, Modrag’s thirst for gold and dominance made his presence in the realm a threat to the dwarves as well, albeit, a less imminent one to that of mankind. With no time to waste, Cryaaron was led to the halls of Hammerstaal. The smell of scorched metal and immense heat radiated from its corridors. Sprixx greeted Cryaaron with a handshake, his grip capable of crushing stone, and the king’s hand if he chose to. Sprixx, like most dwarves, was short in stature, but had an undeniable strength and confident disposition to him.

No sooner was the deal to forge Dragonsbane struck, that Raidyan, a member of the Calling, came hastily to Hammerstaal’s door. She informed Cryaaron that a group of Orcs had surrounded their base camp, and an attack was all but certain. Cryaaron, along with Raidyan and 6 Dwarven High-guards set out immediately. The clanging of metal, and the screams of battle, were heard well before Cryaaron and crew reached the camp. The Orcs, known for their relentless aggression and rage, had pinned the remaining Calling members to the far west base of the mountain.

Led by Raidyan, who’s fury surpassed the attacking Orcs, the newly arrived warriors slammed into the flank of the Orcish battle party, causing confusion and panic. The Calling, seeing that help had arrived, made a final push, in an arrowhead formation, cutting down and through the core of the Orcish lines. With a blow from Cryaaron’s axe, the Orcish captain was felled, and the remaining Orcs scattered. The battle had been won, but not without loss. 3 members of the Calling, Sheira, of Rothmore, Cainan of Borjin, and Torgan of Lampuria were lost.

This battle was a harsh reminder to what lies ahead, for all who stand against Modrag and his legion. Dragonbane would be ready by weeks end. Cryaaron’s next endeavor, and perhaps his hardest to date, was to speak with Dardan, the King of the Dwarves in the North, and enlist his support in the war to come.

Please stay tuned for the next entry in this series, “Modrag’s Shadow,” coming soon. I hope you enjoyed this story. Remember to make time for yourself during your day to prioritize and pursue what brings you happiness.

Written By: Man with a plan aka Jeffrey Kalinoski