The Last Heir, FanFic Options

[redsrock]

I hope you all enjoy the story and as always please leave feedback or a word of wisdom. I'm always looking for help and suggestions.



The Last Heir

CHAPTER ONE

The goblins were rushing in through the barn door, but they had no clue I was sitting up above on a rickety plank, ready to jump down and slay the evil beasts.

With my trusty spear in hand I dove down from above and struck one of the monstrous creatures to the floor. The others shrieked loudly as they charged me, but it was of no use. My skills in battle were envied by all and matched by no one.

One by one I sliced my way through the goblin horde until only the chieftain stood before me. He held his magical battle axe in hand with a furious expression, but I knew his intimidating stature was unreal. He was truly afraid of me and wanted nothing more than to run back to his smelly cave, but alas I was guarding the only exit out of my barn.

Slowly I walked towards the monster and as I inched closer and closer I began to see the sweat dripping from the chieftain’s face. His hands that were clutched tightly around the axe were shaking wildly. He stood no chance.

“Lukas, have you finished cleaning the barn yet? Supper is almost ready!”

At the sounds of my mothers shrill voice the battle ended and suddenly I was unfortunately sucked back into boring reality.

“Not yet mother, give me another ten minutes or so…”

I quickly took the broom I was holding and started sweeping the floor because I knew it was only a matter of seconds until my mother came to see what the matter was. She told me to clean the place an hour ago but of course like usual I had dazed off into my own fantasy land.

“LUKAS! Will you please clean things up quickly? Supper is just a few minutes from being ready and you’ve barely even started! What have you been doing in here all this time?”

Sure enough she entered the barn with the same stern expression she gave me every time I angered her, which seemed to be often.

“I was fightin’ the goblins mama, I had to protect our barn from the enemy,” I said with a sly smile about me.

My mother hated it when I pretended to be a knight or a warrior, or whatever... For some odd reason she becomes very infuriated whenever I did so.

“Lukas, you’re fifteen years old! When are you going to grow up?” She said with her arms folding firmly across her chest.

“Fine, fine, I’ll clean the barn, it shouldn’t take too long!”

“The next time I catch your mind wandering about when you’re supposed to be doing chores you’ll get a whipping you’ve never imagined before.”

I simply rolled my eyes as she walked away. But of course she wasn’t yet finished with her tirade. “And stop pretending my broom is some kind of weapon!”

“I can’t help it mama, I’m gonna be a knight some day!” I chuckled back.

She grunted loudly and finally ended the argument with a threat I’ve heard millions of times before, “You break my broom and I’ll break your legs!”

I always laughed loudly at that one, for my mother wasn’t abusive as some kids’ mothers were. She would never lay a finger on me, besides my constant spankings of course.

Come to think of it, I’d hate to see what she would do if someone ever did laid their hands on me. It sure wouldn’t be pretty, I know that for sure. My mom is extremely protective of me.

I think that’s why I am home-schooled. She probably doesn’t want to even think about me being whipped by the school’s headmaster, which I am almost positive would be a daily activity. She’d rather do that herself…


Two hours later I finished sweeping the floors and bundling all the hay. It took me longer than I expected and mother wasn’t too thrilled about the delay.

“Sorry mama, it took me a bit long than I thought it would. Mama…?”

I yelled a bit more but was never given a response. My immediate answer to the silence was that she was most likely outside watering our garden and picking any already ripe vegetables.

So I threw off my work clothes and bundled into a pair of comfortable pants and an unbuttoned shirt. I went into the kitchen to see two plates resting on the table. One was full of cold food and the other was almost entirely eaten.

I walked over to the front door and poked my head out to see where mother was. I saw her standing just a few feet away from the porch. That’s when I saw two men in shiny silver armor standing next to her.

I walked outside to greet the men and I noticed she was sobbing.

“Who are these people mama, and why are you crying?”

Without giving me an answer she threw her arms around me and began to cry even more than before.

“Mama, what’s wrong?”

One of the men in armor spoke up with a deep and serious voice.

“Son, follow us into your house. There are some matters that need to be discussed.”

I was speechless. I didn’t know what to say. My mom took me by the hand and led me and the other two men into the house, where we all sat down at the kitchen table after she cleaned it.

“Lukas, do you have any idea who your father was?”

“Umm…no sir, I do not. Mama told me he passed away when I was still a baby.”

The man looked over to mother and she started crying again, this time thankfully a little quieter than before. I hated seeing her cry; it pained me more than anything else.

“You father was Martin Septim, son of Uriel Septim. Do you know who any of those two men are?” The man asked with a sterner tone.

“No sir, I’ve never heard the names before,” I said sheepishly.

Again the man looked over to my mother, this time with sheer anger. I was almost afraid he was going to yell at her but he turned his attention back to me.

“Your father and grandfather were rulers of the Empire Lukas. Surely you’ve of the Empire, haven’t you?”

I nodded. Who didn’t know about the Empire? Even we, on this small island hundreds of miles from anyone else, know about them. But was this man serious about my father, and apparently my grandfather, once being rulers of the Empire?

“Martin and Uriel were both recently slain recently. Your grandfather was assassinated by the culprits and Martin sacrificed himself to save Cyrodiil. You, Lukas, are the heir to the throne.”

I was stunned beyond belief. Surely I was dreaming right? Perhaps I had fainted from the barn’s heat and I was imagining all of this? Surely I had to be, there’s just no way in the world any of this could really be happening.

“I’m sorry sir, but what are you talking about? I think you have the wrong person. I’ve lived here all my life and I highly doubt it’s possible that I would be related to any Imperial Kings.”

“Ah, but it is Lukas, what your mother has apparently forgotten to mention to you is that she was once a caretaker for the Chapel in the city that was once Kvatch. She happened to have a “small” mishap with Martin and that brought you into this world. Your mother fled the country and brought you here. And since you’re Martin’s only heir that makes you’re the rightful king of Cyrodiil.”

I looked over to my mother and she was able to nod her head slowly. I was the King of Cyrodiil? How could this be? I’m only fifteen years old!

“We’ll give you about an hour to get your stuff together and then we set sail for Cyrodiil where you will take your place at the throne, though it won’t be as glamorous as you might think. A war has just been won, but don’t worry, I’ll explain everything on the way.”

Things were happening so fast I didn’t know what to think. I was looking back and forth between the two men and my mother, then the next thing I knew I was toppling face first towards the table, and then everything went dark.

[redsrock]

CHAPTER ELEVEN


I woke up early the next morning, somewhere between five and six o’clock. I thought about going back to sleep, but then again I’d have to wake up soon anyway. It would be good for me to get an early start.

I walked outside and entered the general area of the castle, where the servants of were just then starting their morning cleaning. It was good to see that even when they were leaderless they still cared that much about their city to keep it clean.

Rather than sit and wait for everyone to wake up, instead I exited the castle and took a walk along the city streets. I don’t why, just that I didn’t feel like sitting around. It was still a bit dark outside, and the sun was slowly making its way upwards into the sky.

But before I left, I told a servant to send word to Baurus and Itius, whenever they woke up that is, that I had gone on a walk, and not to worry.

As I began along the path I noticed how dirty the streets were, from the festival last night of course. I figured a mess like this would take days to clean, but who knows, if the cleaners were as loyal to their work as the servants were it would take no time at all.

Soon I found myself walking outside the city itself and down a dirt path to the east. I walked until I found myself at a small pond where there were many fish swimming about. They swam peacefully with not a care in the world, as if life was so simple to them.

I stared at the fish for a while and then I looked up into the sky. The sun had fully risen, and it was now probably seven o’clock, and I had been at the pond for over and hour. Time had flown so quickly, and through all of this time I had failed to notice an elderly man sitting on a stone at the opposite edge of the pond where I was standing.

Like I had said before, the pond was a small one, and I could easily see the cheering smile coming from the man’s face as he merrily waved at me. I didn’t even know who he was, yet somehow I knew he would cause me no harm. So I left my position to join the elderly man where he was sitting.

“Good morning, young Lukas Septim. How are you doing this warm, sunny morning? Come, sit beside me, there’s much we need to speak about.” The man said. He had short, gray hair, and his skin was very wrinkles. It appeared that age was not favoring him in any way.

The man knew my name, and talked as if he had been expecting me. Even with a better view, I was still clueless of to who he was. He was not at all familiar in any way, yet there was still something about him that was biting at me.

“Excuse me sir, but how do you know my name?” I asked him curiously.

He still had the same warm smile, and then he answered my question. “You are a very important person, Lukas. It is true that there are people, who see you as a burden to the country, but important you still are, and important people are always recognizable.”

He spoke rather philosophical in way. This was mysterious man was definitely catching my attention.

“Yes, unfortunately you are correct. What about you? What do you think of me?”

“I have yet to have an extended time to see you, Lukas, but from I have seen I have to say that I am very impressed with you. Despite your youth you handle yourself intelligently. Your decisions seem to be the right ones, and let me tell you one thing, the people of Leyawiin certainly adore you,” he said with a hearty laugh.

“That’s good, I just hope those in the Imperial City will feel the way someday,” I said.

“Lukas, people are ignorant. Through my years I have learned that, and ignorant they will always be. You will gain the respect of your people in due time. I understand the frustration you’re feeling, but let me give you a perspective you yourself might not have thought of.”

I nodded in acknowledgement and awaited the man’s words.

“The people of Cyrodiil have each suffered greatly in the recent years, everyone knows that. Mehrunes Dagon and Mythic Dawn have caused great disaster, but especially to those in the Imperial City. I am not sure if you know this or not but the city was besieged by Mehrunes Dagon and his minions, resulting in a major battle that ultimately resulted in a victory for Cyrodiil. But that victory came with a terrible price. Many people in the Imperial City were killed and a vast majority of the city was destroyed. The people were greatly traumatized by the horrific events, and they are still nursing their psychological wounds. They dislike you simply because they are still recovering from the war. In time they will see what kind of leader you really are, Lukas. I promise you all will be well.”

“All of that sounds well, sir, but I just hope it actually happens. By the way, what is your name?”

The old man laughed again, something he seemed to like. He smiled at me and said, “Why Lukas, I’m Adamus Phillida!”

And there he was, Adamus Phillida, the man I’ve been talking about for the past day, sitting right beside me. I now felt very stupid. Adamus was clearly waiting for me, because somehow he knew I was coming, but how?

“How did you know I was coming here?”

“Well, Lukas, it’s very simple actually. As I was taking my nightly stroll through the streets last night, I ran into Lerexus as he was making his home to the barracks from the castle. He told me about what happened last night, and all of the discussions you’ve had about me with your companions. Then, this morning, I saw you leave the city and I just assumed you would come here. So I took a shortcut to ensure I was here before you. Thankfully it worked out. Pretty clever, heh?

Yes, very clever indeed, but perhaps more of a lucky guess. This Adamus fellow, he seemed to be certainly different from anyone else I had ever met. But I had a strong feeling it was a good different.

“Well, since you know what I want from you, what is your answer?”

He looked at me and continued to smile as he has been the entire time. He was truly a cheerful man, and I had yet another feeling: That already he was the man for the job.

“Well, Lukas, I am a politician, something I am sure you’ve heard. This position you offer me; I am much honored to be named to such a position. But I am a little confused. Are you asking me if I want the job, or are you simply asking for an interview? I suppose what I am trying to ask is: are there any other candidates for the job?”

“I’ve heard all I need to know from the others. You are certainly a high praised man, Adamus. I am prepared to offer you the title of Count of Leyawiin, right here, right now.”

“Yes, I accept your proposal, Lukas,” He said while shaking my hand and then giving me a hug. “Now, let us walk back to the castle so that we may make this decision public. Also, Lukas, I want you to know that you can always come to me when things are not going your way. I’m sure Jauffre is a good mentor and all that, but he has flaws, that much is sure. But then again, everybody has flaws, don’t they?” He said while laughing.

We walked back to the castle, where Itius, Baurus and Lerexus were sitting at the table, talking with one another. I announced to everyone what happened and also my decision. The room erupted into applause from Lerexus, Itius and the other guards and servants. But Baurus, just as I had assumed, was looking irritated by my choice.

As Adamus walked over to talk with Itius and Lerexus I walked over to Baurus, who was making his way back to his room. He was noticeably fuming from the ears with anger. I ran over to him and grabbed his shoulder, turning him around.

“What in the world is wrong with you, Baurus? Why are so set on him not being the ruler of this city?”

He shoved my arm aside violently and got inches from my face.

“Don’t you grab my shoulders like that, boy! I am angry because you defied my plea in not naming him Count. You don’t even listen to what I have to say, and to tell you the truth, I don’t even know why I am here.”

This was all surprising. Why was Baurus acting like such a baby? But before I could utter one word, Itius’s body flashed by and pushed Baurus away from me.

“Never again lay your hands on the Emperor! Not everyone is going to agree with you, Baurus. Unfortunately your selfishness has gotten the better of you once more. When are you going to learn to grow up like Jauffre has told you hundreds of times?”

Itius’s words seemed to have cut straight through Baurus. He unsheathed his sword and looked as if he was going to attack Itius. When Itius too unsheathed his blade, I thought a fight was going to break loose, but fortunately the two simply stared at each other until finally Baurus continued.

“Fine, I am done with this mess. I’ll see you fools back at the Imperial City, a place where maybe someone will listen to me.” Baurus took off his Blades helmet and tossed it to the floor, along with his shield. Then he stormed past everyone and left the castle. I started to run for him, but Itius and Lerexus held me back.

“No, Lukas, just let him cool himself down. He’ll realize how wrong he is sooner or later,” Itius said.

Rather than argue any further I let Baurus walk out. Surely he would find himself back at the Imperial City, and then Jauffre would wonder why he abandoned us. When Baurus tells Jauffre what happened he’ll no doubt scold Baurus for his selfish actions. I didn’t care at the moment; I had a Count to name.

“I’ll deal with Baurus later. Lerexus, I want you to gather the people up and bring them here, outside the castle. There I will officially name Adamus as Count of Leyawiin.”

Lerexus left the room, as did the servants and guards, who were going to prep the area for all of the civilians. I planned on leaving right after the announcement, but not before I had a few words Adamus and possibly some of the people. I wanted to make sure all was well before departing.

“Don’t worry about Baurus, Lukas; he’s like that all the time. If you ask me, I don’t know how he’s a Blade. Sure, he can fight with the best of them, but he’s the biggest baby I’ve ever seen in my life. His immaturity will be his eventual downfall, mark my words.”

Within about an hour everything was set and everyone was standing outside the castle, and they were getting a bit anxious. So I walked out there, along with Adamus, Lerexus and Itius, and upon my arrival the crowd erupted into a humongous display of applause. I let the cheers continue for a few minutes before motioning for silence. To my pleasant surprise they actually quieted down. I wish it had been that easy back in the Imperial City.

“I have called you all here for some much need good news. Obviously you are without a ruler, and it is that subject that has been discussed for the past day. I have come do a decision and the new ruler of Leyawiin shall be Adamus Phillida!”

Again the place roared with thunderous applause and that was all I needed to say. I shook the hands of Adamus, Lerexus and Itius, and then the celebration commenced. A great meal was quickly prepared and we ate that night. I wasn’t so keen on staying, but I thought ‘what the heck’, and stayed anyway.

I was certainly glad I had chosen to do so, because that night we had a magnificent feast. I met with several citizens, both of low and high quality. I met with three of Adamus’s associates, to whom he hinted would be his personal advisors.

“I’ve been thinking since last night, when Lerexus told me about you. I knew I was going to accept the position, and so I thought about some kind of “Advisor Board”. You know, a group of advisors that will help me with daily issues? I haven’t mentioned anything to them yet, but I’ll let them know sometime tomorrow.”

“That sounds like a good idea, Adamus. I’m glad to see your taking this seriously. I think I found the right man,” I said while shaking his hand once more.

“Yes you have, Lukas. Thank you for this opportunity, and may Talos guide you on the way home.”

I nodded at Adamus and then my entourage and I left Leyawiin. I was so excited about what had just happened the past day. I couldn’t wait to tell Jauffre everything. Unfortunately I didn’t know my good deeds would be overshadowed by the evil acts of someone else.

This post has been edited by redsrock: Nov 19 2007, 08:48 PM