Star Warden: Slayer of Evil. Chapter 4

 

Into the Woods

4

Past the river Danu was the bay of Nenra; a separation point between the mainland and the island of the Mystic Woods. A dense ghostly fog surrounded the barge as the land behind them slipped out of sight. Ominous lights looked down upon them all and slowly dimmed as Mystic Woods came into view. Many on the barge looked upon in awe as they witnessed the tallest trees in the world.

Sam would say that using the word tall to describe them was both an understatement and an insult. Their height was so great that none could see over them and none could fly over them. Even if one could their vision would be blocked by a nearly unbroken canopy that stretched to seemingly infinite length.

Passing through the plants and trees they entered the woods proper and encountered its majestic beauty. The river shined with a purity untouched by time, the plants and treebark gave off a radiant glow that caused a few on the ship to shed tears. Flowers bloomed on the river banks adding their own bio-luminescence to create an artistic display of colors in the air, augmented by the joyful melodies sung by the birds.

Sam was moved to silence by the wondrous sights and sounds. Even with the memories of previous visits in his head, he was overwhelmed by the sight like a newborn who first sees the world. That such a place existed in the universe and he, of all people, was allowed to experience it first hand both humbled the Warden and inspired him to continue to fight and protect such a unique miracle.

The forces of evil have attempted to destroy this place but to no avail. For they could not find this island. No map had its exact location, the pathways were torturous by design, and the fog ensured that none could pass without permission. It was this secrecy that allowed the resistance to organize in safety and serve as a safe harbor for refugees.

A small group of Sprites flew overhead and brought fresh food and drink to the survivors of Koba. They stood around four feet high dressed head to toe in leaf and bark-like clothing with beetle-like wings coming from their back. Golden eyes surrounded by an onyx field broke up the green tinted skin and brown fur that came from their deer-like ears, waist, legs, and hooves. They were the stewards of the Mystic Woods able to communicate with it and granted magical knowledge unknown to even the most learned of Faeries.

The river barge reached their destination as they arrived at a large pier on the river bank. Before their eyes lay the valley of Camelot, filled with rolling hills, verdant meadows, and pristine mountain spires that nearly reached the canopy of the forest. The valley itself held the appearance of direct sunlight beaming down upon them due to the use of certain plants that changed color depending on the time of day outside of the Woods.

The township that shared the valley's name was intertwined with the land itself. Homes were made on the ground and the treetops connected by walkways. Enormous plants and mushrooms were hollowed out for hospitals, taverns, and other buildings. Small farms dotted the edges of the valley while the caves in the mountains became barracks and workshops. The river provided electricity for more involved technological endeavors. 

Sam and Kaguya lived near a lake high amongst the treetops made from white wood. It was built in the style customary of Kaguya's people which to Sam reminded him of a castle from a samurai film. The sliding doors separated the living room, kitchen, and the workshop where he kept his armor and weapons. This extra addition made their home bigger than the other treetop homes in Camelot. Dressed in a simple blue tunic emblazoned with the symbol of his house, and a pair of simple pants. He was making his wife's favorite tea as she still slept when he had an unexpected, but not unwelcome visitor.

It was a Sprite same as the others with three major differences. Her hair was blinding scarlet, she dressed in some sort of leotard and leather armor made from some processed material, and there were two spiral horns sticking out of her head like an antelope. It was unknown why some sprites had these horns and It was unwise to speculate an answer to them. As the subject was a hotly contested one.

“Morning, Bridget,” Sam said.

“What is up,” she replied in halting English. Bridget's curiosity had caused her to start learning the English language and she made an attempt to speak it each time they met. It made her the second non-human to know the language. Sam could speak Aetherium's tongue thanks to Kaguya and his father's lessons. The Enchantress had given him a magical spell that allowed him to speak English and be understood, and vice versa, in case an emergency left him unable to use the armor's translation programs. But he still spoke the alien tongue for the sake of adapting to the alien world.

Also, Bridget was a friend and he would consider it rude not to reciprocate when she worked on learning his language. Unlike most sprites who stayed in their forests, groves, and grottoes she was an active freedom fighter. Specifically an operative of the Ranger Service that handled intelligence operations and keeping in contact with other cells across the continent. Her skill and experience aided Sam greatly in his earlier travels.

“You're getting better,” he replied. “I'm not entirely sure what's up though, the ceiling and the trees are in the way.”

Bridget looked up confused for only a moment, then she looked back at Sam. “Oh, I get it.” she laughed.

“Glad you enjoyed it. I'm just making tea so Kaguya can rest up. How are you?”

“I'm bushier than a squirrel's tail and brighter than the morning dew.” Her voice in her native language was chipper. It made her sound like she was thirteen or fourteen years old even if her physical age was much older than that.

“That's one way to use that phrase.”

“It helps that things have been going well and it has been quiet. The enemy hasn't made any large movements over the past year. Except for a raid last week I mostly just observe and report.”

“Sounds good that means I might actually get some R&R for a bit.”

“But that's boring,” she whined. “I want some action. The more action we get the more chances we have at turning Daimos into a junk pile.”

“Oh I agree but I spent a year myself in the thick of it. After days of doing the same thing with no progress, you could feel like you were hitting a brick wall. A nice rest allows you to look at the bigger picture remind you why you were out there in the first place.”

Bridget hummed as she thought about his statement. “Well, I could agree with that if I could go with you and Kaguya. It might not be as bad waiting around with you two."

“That's King Ronan and the Enchantress's call, not mine. Want some tea?”

“Thank you.”

Sam wondered how the faerie king was doing as he poured Bridget a cup. Like Sam, he was forced to take up a new post after the violent death of his father, King Alistair of Falias. Alistair raised an army to fight Daimos's machines only to be defeated, eventually captured, and publicly executed after months of torture. Ronan, with the aid of his wife Queen Reiko, Kaguya's sister, managed to evacuate the remaining soldiers and civilians to the Mystic Woods.

This gave the new Kingdom of Camelot its second advantage, a core nucleus of trained soldiers, a civilian workforce, and solid leadership. All of this made Ronan the effective High King of the Free Realms, the name given to the alliance of rebels and still free kingdoms, that resisted the Stygian Domain. Sam considered him a kindred spirit and was on friendly terms with him, the fact they were also brothers-in-law to the same family also helped with their bond. Though they had not spoken much with each other, their respective duties taking up much of their time.

“So, what happened with Koba,” Bridget asked.

“They got found out harboring priests. The Lord Mayor tried to play the game from both sides and it took his life. I didn't make it till the city was already on fire.”

“And what happened to Mayor?”

Sam grimaced as he remembered the Lord Mayor's remains. “You do not want to know.” Another reason he hated the Ratmen, they were depraved beyond belief.

“Good Morning,” Kaguya said walking into the room. Dressed in a soft pink robe.

“Morning, Your Radiance.”

“No need for formalities, Bridget.” She took her seat next to Sam and gave him a kiss. “Thank you for the tea, my love.”

“Always. Anyone up for some fishing after this?”

“Only if I can catch them by hand,” said Bridget.

After tea, they went to the lake and spent their time fishing and talking further. Bridget soon left wanting to see whatever missions were left for her while the married couple relaxed at the lake. Some faeries came over to visit Kaguya asking for her blessing or advice, but she spent most of the day aiding Sam in catching fish for tonight's dinner.

The calm day of fishing melted away the frustration gained from his year long errantry against the Dark Lord. He reflected upon what blessings he had, living a childhood dream of exploring an alien world, and battling evil. Married to his childhood friend who loyally fought with and supported him. While the circumstances were not ideal and he had no way to gauge his progress he had something to protect and to look forward to. For every day to be like this, him with his beautiful wife enjoying the day together.

As the world slipped from the afternoon into evening the woods followed suit. A soft purple and blue light were released from the plants, perfectly replicating the ethereal beauty of twilight. Sam and Kaguya lay together on a wooden couch covered in soft silk after enjoying a delicious dinner of fish and peppers. From their balcony they watched the lights of the aurora through the canopy, their silver rings creating a soft glow from the reflection.

The sound of faerie wings deftly entered the scene which caused the couple to look in its direction. It was one they recognized clothed in a bright red kimono with a golden sun pattern as it landed on the balcony.

“Queen Reiko,” Sam said recognizing her.

“Good Evening, sister,” said Kaguya.

Reiko's pink wings folded down. “Evening, Sister and Sam no need for formalities. I'm also your sister as well. Even if we are only in-laws.”

“I didn't expect you coming over is all.”

“You've been away from the valley for a year. So I had to see how you two are doing, though I am surprised to find you two are still fully dressed.”

Kaguya sighed. “If you are expecting salacious tales of our past year we have none to share.”

“Yet.” Reiko giggled.

“Even if we did had such tales. They would not be privy for your consumption, sister.”

“Considering you have let me read your diary. I can make a good guess what those tales involve.” Reiko looked at Sam. “If only you had read it,” she said while waving her hand near her like it was a hand fan. “It could start a forest fire if read aloud.”

“I shared that with you in confidence,” she exclaimed. “I was confused about my feelings at the time.”

“Mind if I can get a copy,” he asked, making a playful smile at Kaguya's embarrassment.

“No!”

“I actually remember it by heart,” Reiko replied with a mischievous look in her green eyes. “ 'I had a very indecent dream', “ She said in an impression of Kaguya's voice. “ 'I saw Sam's chest bare to-',” Kaguya interrupted her by grabbing Reiko's lips.

“Sister! That is quite enough.” Despite her regal tone, she could not hide the panic in her voice or that her face had gone dark red.

“I'm only doing my sisterly duty,” Reiko said somewhat muffled.

“You are going very well beyond the call of duty,” Kaguya said, straining a smile.

Sam laughed at the sight before him as the sisters playfully horsed around. This had been common between the two. As Reiko seemed to take heavy interest in her younger sister's love life. Though that interest was mostly a way to get a rise out of her. It usually ended with them laughing together and this time was no different as they both lovingly hugged each other.

“It gladdens my heart to see you again,” said Reiko tenderly. “How are you doing?”

“I am well all things considered. How are you and King Ronan?”

“He's doing the best he can considering the stress of running the war and being King. I would have brought him along.”

“I understand,” Kaguya said finishing her thought.

“As for myself,” Reiko took a deep breath and her smiling and mischievous face had left her. 

“I am doing the best I can. I just stay up worrying about my husband and you two.”

“You are having difficulties sleeping, Sister?"

“Somewhat.” Reiko toyed with her shoulder-length black hair. She looked away toward the railings. “I still wish I was there to help.”

Sam realized what she meant. “Don't beat yourself up,” Sam said in a comforting manner.

“There is no guarantee you would have escaped in time. Your marriage to Ronan let you be away from Solarium when it fell and be in a position to help others.”

“Thanks to you many in Falias were able to escape. Families could stay intact due to you, sister,” Kaguya said reassuringly.

A sniffle escaped Reiko's nose as she wiped the tears from her eyes. “Forgive me. I'm just stressed and overly emotional.” She turned to them and put a hand on her stomach. “The doctor says it's a boy.”

“Sister, this is great news!” 

“Which is why I'm so concerned. I don't wish to lose any more family. I lost my brothers, my father, my mother, all at the hands of Daimos. I want my son to grow up with all his family, even family of alien origin.”

“You got nothing to worry about,” Sam said casually. “I mean I'm here so problem solved.”

Kaguya giggled at the lack of humility while Reiko made a surprised snort.

“Well, it is good to know you do not lack for confidence.”

Sam's tone became more somber as he continued. “There's also the fact that now I can repay my mother.”

“Your mother,” Reiko asked.

“Her name is Hannah. When I was only a kid she had to sacrifice her life to save me. She had a checkered past and it caught up to her. When some of her old associates came to kidnap me she started a firefight that killed them and her in the process.”

“Oh.” Genuine surprise and sympathy in her voice.

“So it comes full circle putting my life on the line for a mother and her kid. This time though the hero comes back alive. Sam Bailey guarantee.”

Reiko smiled at the sincerity of his words. “I can see why Kaguya was so adamant about marrying you.”

“Indeed." Her face was flushed with admiration from hearing his words.

“Will you be staying here for a while?”

“That is up to the Enchantress,” he said.

“I understand.” Reiko nodded. “It is late and I shouldn't take up more of your time. Just make sure to visit me and His Majesty when you have the time. After all without family, what are we fighting for?”

“Truth, Justice, and the American way?”

“For all that is good and holy as well,” Kaguya added.

“I wasn't asking for a list,” Reiko said in between small laughs. “Good Evening and don't get too rowdy you two."

Reiko's wings spread from her back and she took flight. Kaguya placed her hand on her own stomach.

“Still hungry,” Sam asked.

“No. I was reflecting for a moment. Coming back here and seeing Reiko with child and the day we spent together. It reminded me of everything I was doing in the past year, was to protect all of this.”

“I thought you were just tired from rough living,” Sam noted.

“Forgive my obfuscation, I did not wish to burden you with my feelings when you felt such discontent. I wanted to wait till we were in safety before I spoke about such things as I felt the same way you did. This frustration with the way things have gone our slow progress in our long conflict against the tyranny of the machine.” Her soft-spoken tone gained a hard edge as it was filtered through the feelings of exhaustion.

She lifted her head up and smiled. “Spending the day here reminded me why I must keep fighting. For if I do not I will never have such days again or see my sister's child or have children of my own.” Her face turned to Sam and gave him a look that caused his heart to skip a beat. “With you and live a peaceful life. It is a dream and every day I have to remind myself that each fight gets me and everyone else closer to that dream. The dream of peace.”

The Princess gasped as she felt Sam turn the rest of her around and wrap his arms around her. “If you keep being this sweet I'm going to have to kiss you.” and he did.

Sweet bliss overwhelmed her as she embraced him and returned the kiss with similar fervor. The two then parted and looked into each other's eyes with an understanding that only true love could grant them. With no need for further conversation, they retired for the evening.

Chapter 3

Chapter 5

Villians: Pure Evil and loving it.

Villains are the necessary ingredient in any conflict. Some are all-powerful and nearly unstoppable others are intelligent and conniving. You have competent ones, bumbling ones, ones you laugh at, and ones that give you nightmares. They are normally the counterpart of the hero and for one reason or another oppose the hero or protagonist in their goals. 

These days I noticed the most popular way to write the main antagonist is to leave them in the background until the final battle. The second option is to make them complex, sympathetic, and very human. They took a dark path and only need to be redeemed or have someone care about them in order to return to the right path. Only then to reveal the true big bad everyone hates at the end. Though if there is no true big bad then everyone is just redeemed and happily ever after. For example, look at Steven Universe and how they handled the Diamond authority.

So what happened to the other class of villains? The supervillain, the rogue, the blackguard, the one you love you hate, the smug snake. These are not seen unless they come out at the very end, so they can take the heat for the more relatable and loveable antagonists the audience and writer don't want to see dead. But in the past, they used to be very common and expected to lead from the front and start whatever the plot of the week was. Now they usually just sit at their base and do nothing but yell at their subordinates, if they don't ultimately get redeemed as well. 

Today such villains are considered one-dimensional and an example of bad writing similar to their aspirational counterparts. This is a misconception as while pure evil or classic villains are simple to write they can be fleshed out without needing to be made overly complex. They can be given histories, hobbies, be seen doing something else besides planning an attack against the heroes, show how they interact with their subordinates or fellow bad guys. These villains are compelling because like aspirational heroes they have no self-doubt. They are also extremely fun to write in my opinion. 

Similar to how aspirational heroes represent a standard of objective good, these villains are the standard of objective evil. Darth Vader wouldn't have worked as a character without an objective evil to work against so he could be redeemed. Pure evil villains set the bar for villainy in a story which allows fallen and sympathetic villains to exist due to contrast. If you don't have a standard of what is truly evil then it blurs the line between good and evil and that doesn't always equal an interesting story. I've seen the whole gray morality used as an excuse to have "heroic" characters not live up to the standard that the word implies.

If aspirational heroes are the heaven to aspire to then classic villains are the hell to avoid. They are also just fun to watch and read since they normally have bombastic personalities or are cold-blooded to the max. So we should have more pure evil villains that enjoy their work not sad sacks who just wished they had friends. Considering how many people remember Cobra Commander, Dr.Eggman, and Skeletor even in the modern-day. That goes to show that being a relatable villain does not mean good or memorable. 

Since I like having solutions more than complaining. You can be assured the main villain in Star Warden is 100% real deal Holyfield evil, no substitutions.

Star Warden: Slayer of Evil. Chapter 3

 

3

Off the continent of Valaheim, past the eastern skies, lay what was once the Dawn Islands, before the conquest it was home to the Summer Empire, once ruled by the Asahina Dynasty and one of the greatest nations of Aetherium. Now it is known as the Stygian Islands where the sun no longer rises and the winds are cold and bitter. The lowlands and mountains had become deserts and mining pits, its rivers clogged with the waste of industry, the skies blackened through industrial smog and volcanic ash. The city of Solarium once the capital of this empire is now an industrial nightmare called Pandemonium. The factories, refineries, and pipelines stretched on for miles and surrounded the city. Only ruins of the old city were left but even they were being removed and built over with prisons and other buildings dedicated to the perpetual war machine.

The city was completely devoid of life with only SWAT-bots and their civilian counterparts called labor units inhabiting it. These units were once the former inhabitants of the city put through a cyborg conversation process. Some still had organic components and served in maintenance and waste management. Others were fully transformed just a brain, and some whispered the soul as well, trapped in a metallic shell. They served as obedient slaves as they mined, refined, and constructed the very tools that would enslave their fellows. An excellent example of the Dark Lord's cruelty and efficiency, not only did it aid him it also made many rebels much more cautious about how to damage his facilities less they kill their own kind before they could reverse it.

All over the world special facilities called conversion centers were built to quickly convert the local populace into labor units. They were transformed depending on need or converted to full machines as punishment for rebellion. But over time as their organic components break down or the needs of the Domain demanded it. They would soon gain more cybernetics and put to work in heavy industry while newly converted individuals took their places. Each convert had a barcode burned onto their heads, their names erased thus becoming no more than a number on the Dark Lord's spreadsheets. 

Above the city towering over it like a shadow of death was the Steel Acropolis, a vast citadel built atop the ruins of the old Imperial Palace. Inside its highest tower is the Dark Lord's throne room; floors and walls made from black stone, red marble pillars, a black metal throne built into the wall with a large chrome bull's head above it. The horns made the frame for the window above while lava poured out of its nostrils and flowed into two trenches at the edges of the room.

As he sat upon his throne three holographic screens floated in front of him, showing him a fireteam of SWAT-bots fighting the Star Warden and Princess Kaguya. His mechanical claw caressed the black scales of his pet dragon, Nightshade, her all yellow eyes giving the screens a disgusted look. The Dark Lord had sent a legion of rats to annihilate the town of Koba for harboring priests of Kira and destroying his SWAT-bots in open rebellion. He sent a recon team to investigate when he received no reports. Finding that the Princess and the Star Warden were involved was an unsurprising revelation.

“What a farce.” The disdain and condescension in his reverberating voice were clear. “What is the point to continue to play the hero? To revel in praise? To bring false hope to the enslaved masses?” A sinister laugh emerged from underneath the mask. Daimos cared not for Samuel and considered him a foolish young boy. Only his wielding of Dawnbringer and his traveling with the Princess gave Daimos license to spare him even a moment of his thoughts.  

“Have your fun, boy. Just don't lose your head.”

“Master,” spoke Nightshade. “It appears someone has taken offense to your joke.”

Daimos' face turned to a block of ice sitting on a podium. “My apologies. I meant no offense I assure you.” He telekinetically pulled it to him and caught it in his claw. “I spoke only in jest regarding your son. We've crossed paths before and he did not measure up as a heroic figure compared to you, but I should not have been so insensitive as to demean your own fate. Can you ever forgive me, Lord Bailey? Oh right, you never liked that, can you ever forgive me, Eli?”

In the block of ice was the perfectly preserved head of Eli Bailey. The two of them had a long history, those who shared such knowledge could be accounted for on one hand. They had been both friend and rival before events and choices set them down the path of becoming enemies. He kept his head as a reminder of his victory and to spite Eli one last time by denying him a proper burial.

“Ah, the cold shoulder, I understand.” He sent the block of ice back to its podium. “Rest assured when I execute your son he will join you here as well. For he nor the Princess will stop me.” The live feed turned to static when an old bell landed on the Minotaur warrior. He pressed a control panel on his armrest closing the screens and replaced it with a 3D projection of Aetherium.

No matter how many times he looked at it he could never overcome the sense of annoyance he felt, as the planet defied logical classification. Seen from orbit one would call it a gas giant, yet solid landmasses floated across the planet's atmosphere. Landmasses that could support both animal and plant life, contain river and lakes. The gravity was stable across them all strong enough to hold the landmasses together but also light enough to allow evolution to create flying beings such as faeries. 

He focused the map on the central continent of Valaheim and then overlaid it with reports of insurgency. A coastal land came to the evil one's attention, the land was named Monmouth. The former principality still had more active resistance and his forces only controlled the major roads and the Castle Town where said Princes once ruled. A quick look through his database mentioned reports of the local order of knights were spearheading resistance efforts.

“They have been bothersome of late,” he said mockingly. “it is only fair they repay their debt to society as my new test subjects.” He pressed a second button and a wire-frame face projected into the air. “Sonia, ready my rocket transport.” 

“Acknowledged, Master,” said the AI. 

Nightshade hissed. “Your next experiment. Will it hurt?”

“Indeed.” His word was followed by a low sinister laugh as he thought about what lay ahead for his enemies. “You'll enjoy it my little pet. While my enemies scurry like ants striking me with pinpricks.” Daimos rose from his throne as the winds of passion swelled within him.

“I have been studying and scheming over the past year. This experiment is only the start, the foundation, as the wheels of fate turn as I directed. When my work is complete the Mystic Woods will be cinders, the Enchantress a corpse along with the Star Warden. While Princess Kaguya is tortured till the end of her days.”

He stepped over to the balcony and looked down upon his city with a sinister chuckle along the way.

“Once Camelot falls all rebels on this world will follow!”

Red flames in the form of eyes appeared underneath his faceplate. As his voice emitted a booming electronic echo and changed to a deeper pitch.

“THEN THIS WORLD WILL BE UNDER MY FOOT FOR ETERNITY!”

A burst of maniacal laughter followed with Nightshade adding her own laugh to his. An ominous thunderclap roared in the clouds above.

Chapter 2

Chapter 4

Star Warden: Slayer of Evil. Chapter 2.

 

2

It was all burning, Castle Bailey a great ancient hold, high in the mountains, was slowly turning into a smoldering ruin. The castle guards were eviscerated as the machines advanced through the building. Sam was running as the screams of both soldiers and servants rang in the air. The tattered remains of the white star, red tails, on blue field banners of House Bailey, flew through the smoke covered sky. But only one thought was on Sam's mind; where was his father?

It was only hours ago that he left the planet Earth through the Celestial Mirror. The surprise was total as the Dark Lord's rocket fleet arrived in a fog-filled sky. He managed to arm himself at least before the SWAT-bots raided the armory and so far avoided the fate of the others. But he only had the clothes on his back and was no match for the computer-guided precision of these robots in a firefight.

Right now he just wanted to find his father for new orders, or at least to find and protect his beloved Kaguya. If he could help her and others escape then they could at least fight another day. His thoughts were interrupted as he felt his throat constrict. A cold metallic hand lifted his body off the ground and turned him around. He recognized the hand and the black mirrored face-plate, this was Daimos, The Dark Lord, God-Tyrant of Aetherium, Herald of Eternal Darkness, Prince of Steel, and Grand Marshal of the Forces of Evil.

The Dark Lord cut a towering figure, near seven feet, in his armored military uniform with a crown of steel upon his black helm. Three gemstones were fitted into it, each one emitting a malevolent glare. However, his manner of dress could not hide the hum of electricity and gears that whirled with each move he made. Sam never could admit it but part of him felt small and fearful in his presence, but he ensured his face never showed an inch of it.

A sinister laugh emerged from beneath the mask as Sam was brought closer and he saw his face did show fear, he made the attempt to change it but to his shock found it completely frozen.

“Put him down!” Those words were in his father's, Eli Bailey, voice. Sam remembered those words as those were the last he heard from his father.

“A penance must be exacted,” said Daimos. A metallic echo emanated from behind the mask. For a brief moment, two bright lights manifested where eyes would be which unleashed a devilish heat onto Sam's skin. His body spontaneously combusts and became weightless as he felt the last of his consciousness fade away and his body falls into the void.

He opened his eyes as his body tingled with the sensation of phantom flames and beads of sweat. He felt a firm grip upon his hand, reminding him that he was still alive, he recognized it was Kaguya's hand. He found her face was filled with concern and posed a question that Sam understood without it crossing her lips. 

“Yeah it was the same one,” he said as the phantom flames dissipated. He started to calm down and his heart no longer raced.

No further words were exchanged as Kaguya's embrace was enough to bring the message across. The memories of that night still haunted Sam, while the nightmare did not accurately re-create all the events, it did not deviate much from the truth. While his body had no scars his mind did. His mind could replicate the sensations of skin burning, choking on smoke, the wind blowing on his exposed muscles, and the cold hand of death upon his soul as he struggled for dear life. It was a trauma that could take years to get over, Samuel Bailey did not have years.

For he had sworn a sacred oath to defeat the Dark Lord and return freedom to the people of Aetherium. Daimos had swept the realms with his mechanical warriors and dark creatures. Those not destroyed were made slaves forced to despoil their natural lands to feed his empire of steel. Many have tried to resist only to be destroyed, it was the Star Warden's duty to raise the beacon of hope and inspire others to resist again. 

His father was one of those who lost their lives attempting to resist and thus one could be drawn to believe that Sam desired vengeance. But neither vengeance, pride, or glory drove him. Glory is a fleeting emotion and pride was self-destructive, vengeance can consume a man and distract him from aiding others. Turn him bitter and hateful to everything and throw life away to soothe a wounded heart or bruised ego. 

A true knight was a weapon in service of all that is good and holy but also a protector for those who could not defend themselves. Under Daimos' reign, he had decreed the worship of Aetherium's gods to be outlawed and had all who serve him hunt down and slay or capture any priest. Vengeance would have him ignore this for the larger picture focusing only on slaying evil and not protect the good that remained. So it could be restored once the tyrant had been dethroned. 

Samuel Bailey was a man driven by one thing duty, the duty to do what is right because it was right. It was all the reason that he needed, as his parents' examples and teachings had solidified that a good man is honor-bound to fight the good fight when called to do so. So nightmares would be bared, fears acknowledged, and he would fight on regardless.

He is Samuel Bailey, the Star Warden and he would not be found wanting in the face of evil.

The moon of Fomoria slowly departed from sight leaving only blue and green bands of light in the sky. For a brief few minutes, one could imagine they were looking at the northern lights. However, Koba was nowhere near the poles of Aetherium and these lights could be seen at any point in the world. These lights took the place of the moonlight that Fomoria lacked. 

In the town, some of the survivors had woken up early to search for things to salvage. The broken SWAT-bots were stripped for parts and power cells. The dead were collected and wrapped up to be taken away for burial. The Star Warden was powering on his white mechanical horse as his beloved walked up with a cup of tea. 

“Are you feeling any better,” she asked smiling with a concerned tone.

“I was good,” He said expressing nothing but confidence. “Seeing you makes the day better.” He took a sip of his tea.

Kaguya blushed deeply at the comment. “My inquiry was quite serious.”

“I was completely serious.” Sam watched her eyes light up. He couldn't tell if it was something biological, mystical, or something unique to her. But he noticed it only added to the beauty she already possessed.

“My heart sings to see you are still in high spirits. After all of the recurring nightmares, I grew concerned for your health.”

“Nightmares are easy and I can deal with them. What's getting to me is the fact is we spent the entire year fighting and we're still at square one,” A hint of annoyance slipped into his words. 

“That is not accurate,” Kaguya reminded him. “We saved lives where we could and hurt the enemy when we did it.”

“No argument there,” He said. “I just rather do more than just play cops and rebels all day and make some progress.” As he finished the tea he asked. “Where is your cup?”

“That was the last of our supply, as I wanted to ensure you could stay calm and focused. I know you are emotionally resilient. Oh, just ignore me I worry too much.”

“No, I get it. Speaking of, how are you holding up?” Sam tenderly put his arm around her.

Kaguya leaned in closer and placed her head on his chest. “Just tired from all the fighting and running. I do not believe my body will ever get used to living so roughly.”

“The fact we have to sleep with one eye open all the time doesn't help matters. When we get back to the Mystic Woods I'll make you some tea and you can just rest up, let me take care of you.”

A loving purr emerged from the Princess's lips. “My love, you are very sweet. Have I told you how fortunate I feel every day knowing you are in my life?”

“No surprise, after all I'm a walking good luck charm.”

“As modest as ever.” She shared a laugh with him.

The peaceful moment ended as the young couple heard the sound of roaring rockets disturbing the air. Sam wasted not a moment as he donned his helm and mounted his horse. 

“All aboard,” He shouted. “set sail now while we hold them off.” He turned his horse and left in the direction of the enemy.

Kaguya jumped onto the horse from one of the rooftops. “SWAT-bots backed up by a SWAT-carrier. It appears to be a scout force.” She summoned a silver staff, crowned with a white heart-shaped diamond, into her right hand.

As the horse stormed across the stone road, he moved the still dented buckler from his right gauntlet. Placing it on his back and replacing it with a weapon with twin barrels. SWAT-carriers were flight-capable half-tank and half-infantry fighting vehicles. They were fast and maneuverable despite their heavy armor. This new weapon was designed to deal with them directly. A field test was still required to know its viability.

The squad of SWAT-bots flew into view with the black and white SWAT-carrier not far behind, heavily armed, and most likely stocked with reinforcements. When their audio receptors picked up the sound of thundering steel hooves their right arms transformed into particle cannons and opened fire.

Such precision fire would have shredded their targets if not for the barrier of light surrounding them. Dawnbringer was drawn from its scabbard as Sam charged down the machines, the carrier opened fire with its own heavy weaponry and readied a rack of missiles. A burst of light appeared over the heads of the robots flooding their optical sensor suites with a mass of data to process.

When the light dimmed it appeared their targets had disappeared from sight and the machines communicated amongst themselves as they swept the area. Two streams of hot plasma slammed into the SWAT-carrier sending it into a spin and crashing into a building. The victory was bittersweet as the Warden saw that while the weapon was effective the barrels had become warped making the weapon unusable. Filing that away for later he leaped into action seeking to attack the bots before they noticed him.

The SWAT-bots did notice him and responded swiftly, taking to the sky, forcing the Warden and Princess to join an aerial battle. The robots coordinated themselves well, keeping themselves scattered and maneuvering to ensure Sam's ray gun only hit their reinforced armor avoiding their thrusters or heads. He did attempt to close the gap with Dawnbringer only to be struck from the flank or rear by one of their wing-men. 

So Sam tried a new tactic, after a quick glance at Kaguya, He swung around and grabbed the enemy rocket pack. He felt his bones and muscles fortify with newfound strength. This strength allowed him to overpower the robot and send it toward the ground while driving Dawnbringer through its skull.

In the sky, Kaguya's voice turned to song and from her lips, a melody of power flowed through the winds. The robots attempted to take advantage of the Warden's back being turned only to see their weapons fail as the beams fly off course or are dragged to the earth. One of them sought to engage the Princess in close quarters, a bolt of light from her staff skewered the machine. The last SWAT-bot was destroyed when Sam's ray gun ignited its rocket pack consuming it in the explosion. 

Before they could celebrate their victory the building where the fallen carrier had landed exploded, three SWAT-bots stormed out of the fire, guns and rocket packs blazing. They cornered Kaguya in the sky forcing her behind her light barrier, Sam's focus on her let him be blindsided by a particle blast to his chest plate.

Flung down the street he crashed into another building falling into and breaking the glass of a display case. He suppressed his pain and stood up to fire randomly with his ray gun. Hoping the enemy would keep their head down and give him time. The sound of wood splintering alerted him that the plan failed and only a split second to turn and face the fist of a Minotaur who sent him back to the street.

The Minotaur matched Sam in height due to both being over six feet, with the beast being only a few inches taller. But its weight and girth ensured that he could overshadow and outmuscle the Warden. It had a deep red hide with blood-red eyes. It wore bronzed armor plating and possessed a wrist-mounted energy weapon. A dual-headed ax in its hand vibrated at rapid frequency causing it to glow with intense heat. 

The Star Warden called all his reserves of strength determined not to be beaten so easily. When the monster leaped into the streets to crush him underfoot, in one fluid motion he evaded it and stood upright while swinging which cut into the thin armor around its neck. The beast hissed and drew back to avoid decapitation, but Sam did not hold back and pressed the attack.

Both warriors were brutal and unflinching toward each other, with the Minotaur's brute strength against human agility pushed to their limits. Sam was hurled through stone and the Minotaur was struck for each blow it gave. When their weapons clashed the Minotaur pressed down on Sam's sword using its strength to bring him to his knees. The Warden responded by striking the Minotaur's head with his own and in a swift motion brought Dawnbringer down upon its neck searing its flesh upon contact.

The horned monster was not dead yet as it grabbed the Warden's sword arm holding the blade in place and bashed the ax into the Warden's helm. The heads up displayed fractured as he was thrown off balance while Dawnbringer was wrenched from his hand by the Minotaur. Now with the advantage, it went to crush his head only for the Warden to respond with a beam into the Minotaur's neck wound and a swift kick to send it to the ground.

Sam rushed over and secured Dawnbringer in his hand as the Minotaur rose again ready for battle. Blood still oozed from its neck but it seemed none the worse for wear. With brute force doing little he took off for Koba's bell tower with the Minotaur in hot pursuit with its own rocket pack. The tower was old and in disrepair and thus easy for him to kick the bell off the rope and cause it to fall upon the Minotaur.

“Saved by the bell,” Sam said.

The stone beneath them both crumbled and both combatants went into free fall. Sam was able to stabilize himself and land safely while the Minotaur was crushed underneath the bell. He laughed for a bit as he defeated the beast only to wince in pain as the adrenaline started to flow out of his system. He summoned his will power to cope with the pain and remain standing. He spoke a prayer asking God to keep Kaguya safe and to give him the strength to find her. 

“Sam,” Kaguya’s voice cried out. Calling what he felt relief would be an understatement as she saw her land. Scorch marks and dust-covered her clothes.

“You okay, honey,” Sam asked.

“I am no worse for wear,” she said. “How hurt are you?”

“Me? I’m doing great. You should see the other guy,” While the pain in his voice was clear the confident tone was not damped. Sam fell to his knees and hugged Kaguya, she returned the gesture as her body started to glow. The pain and aches receded from Sam's body as it mended and relaxed.

Returning to their horse they left town swiftly and traveled upriver catching up to the barge in a few hours. Allowed to board after a quick stop, they collapsed into each other's arms and shared a quiet moment as the ruined town sunk over the horizon. 

Chapter 1

Chapter 3

Star Warden: Slayer of Evil. Chapter 1

 

Slayer of Evil

1

Beneath the two moons of a sunset sky, a knight in blue armor battled fiercely with blade in hand. The soft hum of micro-fusion cells filled his ears as they powered the onboard computers that created the heads up display in the visor of his helm. As he swung his blade the white short cape on his back flew upwards revealing a rocket pack of alien design. The bright white and blue blade cut through the Ratman's neck and severed its disgusting head.

The yellow blood and guts burned off, returning the blade to pristine condition. The sword, Dawnbringer, was not one of ordinary make. It was a blade of sun-forged blessed silver that burned the impure and the corrupted. It had a silver-gray winged hilt with a golden gemstone in the center. Its silver grip had the appearance of an eagle's neck topped off with an eagle's head for a pommel. The ability to clean itself was a minor one, but one the knight was no less thankful for. As he did not wish to deal with the fetid smell of the Ratmen's remains. 

He turned his attention to the other rats who were in shock at the failed ambush or perhaps they were being cautious. Whoever called them Ratmen must have been polite, as the knight saw them more as bipedal rats than anything close to a man. They stood over six feet and were well-muscled which belied their speed and agility. Their mouths had jagged teeth and their eyes were blood red, white pupils, surrounded by sickly yellow sclera. Their coats were a mix of black and brown and held the stench of the dead. The knight did not take much pleasure in taking life, the rats were an exception, they were monsters pure and simple.

The Ratmen circled around him, worried, as they plotted their next move. From beneath his helm, the knight made a confident smirk and made a hand motion, signaling them to bring their best. The rat charged him making a horrific screech and the knight moved to strike it, only to dodge and allow it to run into their fellow behind him. The one from behind, who attempted to strike in tandem, was caught off guard and just barely managed to pull back its attack. The knight quickly struck the charging rat's spine. Then with his right hand drew his ray gun from his waist and shot the second rat burning its eye off. 

Withdrawing the sword from its back he quickly severed the Ratman's head to ensure its death was quick, no need for it to suffer. He moved to finish off the wounded one when he was caught off guard as he was struck by a mace on his side. He was hurled into the nearby wall and the rat who attacked him had closed the distance preparing to strike. The knight cursed under his breath as he blocked the strike with his buckler. The shield was dented and warped by the rat's strength, but it did not break. The knight swung back but the rat leaped out of the sword's range. He quickly stood only to face another attack from the wounded rat which he evaded by mere inches. 

It was these moments that reminded him that the rats were vicious fighters and could work together well. He mentally kicked himself for getting cocky when he thwarted their ambush, luckily, he could be just as vicious. The knight engaged with the mace wielding rat and parried his attack only to grunt in pain as he felt the rat's claws dig into his skin. A sinister chuckle came from the rat, while the knight took advantage of the opening and held down the trigger firing a sustained particle beam into the rat's throat. Ignoring his own pain, he focused his attention on the last rat, the one with a missing eye.

Using the dead rat's body as a shield he caused the rat to impale its own sword into the corpse. His opponent off balance the knight drove Dawnbringer through the rat's chest slaying it instantly. He held his side in pain as he returned the sword to its scabbard on his upper back. He did one final check to ensure the monsters were dead with his sword at the ready in case of another ambush or to grant a mercy killing.

Satisfied, he exited the wood and stone building where the battle took place and looked up at the two moons. The sun had disappeared over the horizon and soon the green moon, Aurora, would go with it. The dark yellow moon, Fomoria, now took center stage in the celestial theater. It was a gaseous moon with a baleful presence that made the knight feel like he was being watched. He had walked this world for a year and still could not shake the presence that the moon had some sort of sentience to it. Ancient legend stated that the moon was a portal to a universe filled with demonic entities and he did not find it hard to believe that it could be true. 

The knight looked away only to be reminded of the carnage in front of him. The town of Koba, before these times it would have been like any other. Large stone walls, a castle and courtyard, a marketplace, and many various city districts. Now it was just a crumbling ruin; parts of the wall were rubble, the marketplace was deserted, the city fountain was rusting, and the castle itself was hardly recognizable.

Nothing but a senseless waste of life around him as this town was purged for refusing to bow to the Dark Lord. Many of the defenders were charred skeletons now, some still wearing armor or carrying spears and shields. Strewn around were the mechanical debris of the SWAT-bots; bipedal black and white armored robots, with black helms, chrome face-masks, and mirrored visors. Unlike the rats these machines were pitiless, remorseless, and fearless who would not relent until their target was dead or captured, the knight preferred to fight the rats than the SWAT-bots.

Pushing those thoughts aside he arrived at Koba's local theater, one of the few intact buildings left. Passing through the lobby and into the auditorium. The survivors were relaxing, some were asleep in the chairs while others conversed. They were all members of Aetherium's native species, Faeries. A humanoid winged species. The faeries' skin color were solid colors and ranged across the spectrum. The whites of their eyes were a lighter variant of their irises color, and their ears were long and pointed. Some had butterfly-like wings while others appeared more like a dragonfly, their wings possessed vibrant colors or were clear and transparent.

The survivors noticed the knight's entrance and turned to face him, he responded with a wave and a friendly voice. Giving no sign that he was hurt to keep these faeries in good spirits. His mind however was on one faerie in particular. On stage in the middle of a circle of children was a beautiful faerie woman with long white hair, alluring eyes of royal purple, and skin that shared the color of cherry blossoms. Those eyes shined with love and relief as her face turned to see her knight enter the room. As she politely excused herself, she stood up and golden dragonfly wings folded out from her back. Her name is Kaguya; Princess Kaguya and she stood as gracefully as her regal title would imply. 

She dressed in a light raiment made from shades of purple mixed with accents of gold and white. A flowing skirt with ruffles near the edge and dark tights underneath which led to ankle-length boots. A golden circlet adorned her head with a red gemstone embedded in the center with the shape of a heart. All of it covered a tall and curvaceous figure. She was a beauty that could not be matched here or on the knight's homeworld of Earth. 

“Sam,” she said. Her smiling face quickly turned to worry as she noticed the knight's hand on his side. “What happened to cause this?”

“Occupational hazard. Just a day in the life of a pest exterminator,” He said in a casual tone.

Kaguya's hand started to glow with a bright light and Sam moved his hand from his wound. When she touched it warm, soothing energy flowed into him as the wound healed. He removed his helm revealing his tanned but fair skin, scruffy and matted black hair, a growing five o clock shadow, and sky blue eyes. 

“It's not hazard pay, but hazard pay doesn't come with a beautiful face,” He said beaming a bright smile at her.

“Your compliments are always appreciated but do not change the subject. What happened?”

“Those last two rats turned out to be four and ambushed me. One got a good hit that dented my armor. Then stuck his claws in my skin. God knows where those things have been.”

“I am sorry I could not be there to help.” 

“Couldn't be helped. You were tired and we both assumed they were only two.” Sam yawned. “Besides your magical and medical skill was needed here. Speaking of rest I could use some sack time.”

“Please pardon the interruption,” an elderly voice said.

The two turned in the direction of the voice and saw a faerie, dressed in clerical robes with a sun necklace, walk over to them. If it was not for his voice Sam would have assumed he was a young faerie considering his facial appearance. Sam had not figured out how to tell how old a faerie was outside of an individual's voice. What helped sell his age was he clearly had trouble getting to his knees.

“There is no need for you to kneel good priest,” said Kaguya.

“I do not dare contradict you, Your Radiance. However, I know no other way to thank you and your brave champion. We prayed for Kira's divine grace to shield us and she went above and beyond not only sending the Star Warden but also her Emissary.”

“Just doing my duty,” He said honestly. It was a duty, one he enjoyed as it helped others. He never saw himself, however, as some divinely appointed warrior. Though he kept his opinion on such matters to himself. As who was he to disabused someone of that notion if it gave them hope. Traveling with Kaguya only added to that impression thanks to her magic and her importance to people in Aetherium.

Kaguya is a Celestial Emissary, an angelic being sent from the Celestial Realm. The story goes that Kira, Goddess of Light, Love, and Mercy sent a spirit from Aurora to guide and aid Aetherium's people. The Royal Bloodline of the Asahina Dynasty carried the Emissary's spirit to ensure it could be reborn in the physical form. Each Emissary was marked by the white hair and purple eyes combination unique to her. Kaguya was humble on the subject as aside from that combination she ate, slept, and bled as anyone else. 

Sam had asked her about it before when they were younger and he saw her heal a bruise on him. She said it was a talent that Faeries could learn if they were willing and she was only blessed to know-how from a young age. The younger him just said it was cool and left it at that. After a year fighting with her, he had seen her talents employed in battle, if that was something that could be learned or something connected to the divine was still something he could not discern.

As far as Sam was concerned it was immaterial, faeries believed she was an angel and she worked hard to live up to those who believe. If she wasn't an angel and just a faerie, well he had read stories about Faeries with magic before so it wasn't strange for him if her people could learn it. On the other hand, he didn't disbelieve she was an angel, she had the beauty and kindness of one if nothing else.

“Rise, good priest.” Kaguya aided him up. “We appreciate your gratitude. But now you must rest as we all must leave at dawn's first light. The Mystic Woods is the only safe place from the hands of the Enemy.”

“Of course, Your Radiance,” said the priest. “Thank you again, Sir Warden, For saving all of us.”

“You are most welcome, Sir,” He said mid-yawn. “Excuse me.”

The two took their leave after the others gave their thanks. They lay together on a mat in one of the old dressing rooms. On each of their left hands, a silver band sat upon their ring fingers. 

Chapter 2

Copyright © 2020 by Donavan F. Walker

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form on by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review. 

Aspirational Heroes

I will admit when I first learned of superheroes the aspirational hero did not interest me. My favorite was Spider-Man and I enjoyed the Punisher. When I first got my hands on some comics I read Suicide Squad or Secret Avengers. Spies, Anti-Heroes, or Heroes who started out not as perfect but inspired by tragedy and struggles to stay in the fight and not just throw it away. I kind of liked the struggle the imperfection, the secrecy, and they were under no obligation to save everyone which allowed for body counts.

I still do like Spider-Man these days, but now a hero who I had no interest in originally has become one of my favorites, Superman. Originally I didn't care or know who Billy Batson or Captain America was but now I've been reading up on both of them. All three have something in common, they are all Aspirational heroes. Heroes who inspire and do not have internal struggles, they fight for what's right because it is right and that is all the reason they need. Some had tragedy in their life and others didn't but what's unite them is they are optimistic, friendly, and dutiful. 

Aspirational heroes on the surface are called boring because they don't change or struggle, some call them unrealistic and if you are Superman you are just called the worst of both worlds due to having the blue plate special of superpowers. I understand why many people see them that way, we all have flaws. We all mess up and sometimes let our emotions overwhelm us. It may not be easy to stand firm or be dedicated to a moral code and desire an emotional catharsis. To make someone or something pay for what happened to us all understandable. 

But that is why Aspirational heroes exist to show that it is possible to stand by a moral code and not fall to one's baser instincts. One can inspire a reader that even with dark times or personal loss we can still be better people. That there is hope that people can be redeemed or stay good people and not be corrupted by personal vices or failures. If written correctly they can be great and memorable characters after all we have many of them, even if currently they are being drowned out by darker ones. 

My new found love for aspirational heroes reason is why I created Star Warden. To add to the list of straight-up heroes. Considering how 2020 has been it looks like people need some hope and heroism in their lives. I certainly would like some and I'm going to write some. The best part about these heroes you can put them in the brightest setting or the darkest timeline. Because heroism is timeless and universal. 

What is Star Warden?

 I introduced some information on Star Warden in my opening post and this post is to expand on that. What is Star Warden? It has a plot about Samuel Bailey, the eponymous Star Warden. An earthborn man who becomes a knight and fights the good fight against a Dark Lord, who will stop at nothing to keep his iron grip on the planet. But at its core beneath the plot what is it? 

Honestly, it's something I do not see on the shelves. A fun action-adventure story inspired by the pulps and various cartoons, that were inspired by pulps as well. It's heavily trope based for ease of getting invested in the story and sincere in the use of said tropes. It has a hero that's actually a hero, a romance with no drama and no harem or love triangle nonsense, and a villain that is actually a threat and lacks a sad backstory to make you feel sympathy for. 

Star Warden is fun and is something you would want to read, not just to fill the void Hollywood and their failures created. But it can also fill a niche if you are a fan of entertainment from Japan specifically if you are an isekai fan. Star Warden is also an isekai story, which basically means going to another world. If you read Alice in Wonderland or John Carter or watched Stargate then you know what I mean.

If you look at most isekai anime post-Sword Art Online one notices that the genre is homogenized. You find either a basic fantasy world with a complicated magic system, a comedic parody, RPG systems, or being stuck in a video game. Most importantly there is a distinct lack of iconic villains in these series, oh there is a demon king but they don't make an appearance or are given an actual name and that's for stories that actually have a big bad and not just a random calamity that spews monsters. Also, some isekai protagonists have a chip on their shoulder i.e Shield Hero. 

So Star Warden is my response to the state of affairs in both east and west, it is my wish to see good action-adventurer stories and to not let bad patterns go unchallenged. I am giving you fun optimistic heroes. Heroes that maintain that optimism even when they are on the backfoot or have suffered personal tragedy in their past. Villians that maintain a threatening presence, an effective challenge to the hero, and be a character without forcing a redemption arc on them. 

If any of this is what you have been looking for in your entertainment. No thanks are needed I am happy to be of service.