The Legend of the Argonauts

[Hercules]

*The huns leader led them to a wall with strange writing on it. He got off his horse as the horde stopped he rose his hands and said.* OPEN SAYS ME! *The door rolled away as if shaped like a circle. The halls in which they rode along was just narrow enough for two to ride side by side. The huns looked at the Greeks.* The Huns would ride this path in the dark, I hope that your Gracion eyes don't get in the way of your horses instincts..*The hoard filed in two at a time, Hercules grabbed a torch as soon as possible and rode by Zack as Perseus rode next to Jason, Iolus by Atlanta and Meleager rode next to a Hun.* Zack is just made cause, his kin were raised by wolves..*He laughed, as he looked into the massive darkness. He moved his torch as far out as his arm would reach seeing chains binding small bones of men that lived. Hercules looked in horror as the commander spoke to Jason.* The wild man that owned this land once raged in a war with the Dwarfen folk, the came into the hills and slaughtered them taking their weapons..it is said that the Russians even raped the people and hung their men to the walls..

*The man stood in silence as they entered a room. The ground rumbled a bit as the door had closed behind them, Iolus looked seeing off in the distance through the torch of Hercules.* This is no tunnel this is a tomb! *The Huns commander laughed.* Welcome Greeks to the tunnel where the mountain folk were killed by our kind and now you lot will stay here! *He and his men fired arrows at the Greeks killing the horses before smoke dropped from the skies allowing the horsemen to vanish. Hercules stood regathering his torch as the walls came to life..He looked using his demigod vision.* These tombs have magic..*Iolus knelt to the ground as Atlanta followed suit.* There is things coming for us..*An arrow skipped across the eyes of Jason who drew his sword as he looked into the pillars that surrounded them as light shined throughout the room. Hercules rose his shield as it was littered with arrows as he drew his sword.* Treacherous bastards! *The men seemed to be hybrids as the moved quickly through the dark able to fire arrows on the move. * 


*The men stood back to back as the new race leapt down drawing sword and shield. Hercules heard rumbles.* Great that have trolls! *That was when a large create smashed into the room as he seemed to team up with the strange warriors. Hercules leapted forward grabbing Atlanta and Iolus out of the way as he reached for his bow and started firing onto the thick skinned troll.* Stand strong my kin, together we will escape! *Jason rose his shield as he looked at two of the strange warriors, he blocked and then countered a strike he looked into the beasts eyes.* They are blind! *He could see the death in the creatures. As Perseus stood at side.* They can hear us! *Iolus stood drawing his blade as the creature sliced into his calve.* Ugh, *He yelled out as Atlanta rose up and blasted arrows to defend Iolus. As the creatures gained ground she pulled out two daggers. She quickly barried one into the neck of an enemy and then back stabbed and killed another.* 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack took out his sword and blocked a slash that a troll made and drove his blade into the troll. Stepping back to the back of the cave Zack looked at the other Argonauts and planted his feet. He spun his sword around like a fan blocking arrows as they came his way. Spinning the swords he got in front of the rest of the Argonauts and begun slicing his way through the trolls.* Hercules Perseus can you two punch a hole through the wall without crumbling the mountain down on top of us? *Looking to his side Zack saw Mel standing beside him moving his sword like a painter would his brush. Every move he made was quick, despite his age, and powerful enough to gut a troll with a single slice. The two master swordsman sliced through the trolls careful to make as little noise as possible. Gripping his sword Zack saw Jason run forward with his sword and joining the two in their fight. Spinning around he sent a kick into a troll and a stab into another.* We could use some light in here! Its a little hard to see where we're fighting!


*The bodies of the trolls began to pile up but it was like they were making no head way. It seemed like the trolls were coming in an endless stream of hell. Spinning his blade Zack cut through another and then another and another but he could only see the bodies piling up and the progress being halted. If they didnt get out of here soon they would be over run and their mission would be a failure.*

[Hercules]

*Hercules saw the bodies piling up as he blocked with his shield shoving the creatures back. He gripped the sword and jammed it into the ground causing cracks to form from the thick cement that held their feet. The earth under them began to rattle as Perseus looked to his companions.* We must move or soon we will share fate with the trolls! *Jason looked to Zack as the floor began to fall.* QUICKLY NOW THROUGH THE TUNNEL! *He watched Iolus, and Atlanta give cover fire as they moved through the door. Now they stood in the heart of the bloody mountain, despite having been cold before they now felt sweat dripping from the pours of their bodies..Iolus sniping one of the men as he spotted them off in the distance spoke as softly as a feather.* There is lava below us! This is no tomb this is a volcano..*Hercules looked below them seeing a creature rise from the depth of seemingly endless fire. Atlanta fired first into the chest of the monster but, it was Jason that spoke the truth.* Our weapons will no more good here! *He gripped his shield catching arrows, the earth fell in the room they were just in as the only way they could go was a narrow path that formed into a bridge.* 


*It was crashing around them as Perseus leapt over to the next pillar acting quickly before they found doom* Throw me the little one! *Iolus looked offended as Hercules look him and tossed him to Perseus. He looked to Atlanta who smirked at Hercules.* No one throws an Amazon Lord Hercules..*She then leapt into the air and barely made the jump reaching out as Perseus grabbed her by the arm as the group moved down the path. Jason was next as Hercules looked to Zack* And here you didn't want to go! *He smirked, he then moved in defense as his blade stopped the massive creature walking towards them.* GO DO NOT STAY YOUR HAND! *Jason looked to the Argonauts.* Let us head down the path! Hercules we mean not to leave you again..*He reached into his pocket as he pulled out a dagger he picked up from Avalon and tossed it into the monster who caused the ground they stood on to fall as Hercules grabbed Zack he leapt from the falling ground landing next to Jason as they moved they found the end of the mountain.* By the 12

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack looked back at the giant monster and sprinted down the hall and he looked back seeing a flood of lava coming their way.* MOVE! *He grabbed Iolus and began to run as fast as he could seeing the lava coming after them. Some say that lava was fire made liquid and the way that it was moving made Zack believe that. The heat was something unbearable and sweat began to pour off of their bodies as they ran as fast as their legs could take them. Uncapping his water bottle he took the water out of it and sent a water blast into the lava but it evaporated into nothing before it even made contact.* I see a light just up ahead! *Sprinting through the hall he looked at the others and they all nodded picking up the pace the lava only a few feet behind them. As they ran the whole got bigger and bigger until they were right on it. As they ran to it they jumped off and found themselves free falling. Letting go of Iolus Zack looked to the ground as saw they were falling toward a lake.*



*Zack moved his hands and raised his arms up and the lake quickly creating a jet of water and then turned it into ice. Sliding down the ice he caught the others on it and slid down to the ground. Rolling on the ground Zack began to bend the water in the lake creating a barrier around them to cover their heads from the falling lava. Once it was over Zack dropped the water and turned to the rest of the crew.* I told you people never to trust the Huns! 

[Hercules]

*They stood outside of the mouth of the mountain, the snow falling over their heads. Iolus using his hunter skills he spoke to them* I think that will have lost their trial with the snow? *Atlanta looked at Iolus, she rolled her eyes as she counted the arrows in her quiver. It was in that moment Hercules rose his hand catching a stray arrow. Perseus gripped his hand looking at the arrow in shock. Horns sounded off in the distance as they were surrounded. Hercules snapped the arrow between his fingers as he lined up the arrowhead into his fingers and he ran towards the rider as he slammed his feet into the chest of the rider the arrow cut into his chest as he flew off the horse. He looked at the hoard as arrows fired at them from random directions. Hercules rose and blocked with his gauntlet. He then shifted rising his shield to block the path of arrows. Jason looked at them as he spun his blades cutting down the arrows.* By the 12..*He leaped stabbing a rider in the leg causing him fall. He then leaned down driving his sword into his body. He yelled out.* Out of the frying pan into the fire! 


*Perseus looked at the Huns, he gripped his sword as he flung his shield into of the riders knocking him off his horse as he got trampled over. Just as they were about to hit Perseus yelled as he flung a dagger into a tree branch knocking it down from the tree forcing the Huns to divide. Hercules moved forward holding the tree branch into place using it to knock the Huns off every which way.  Hercules roared as he summoned his strength. Iolus drew his bow taking shots as he closed one eye and lined his arrows taking shots at his head he yelled out.* At this rate will never find Persia..*As the Huns went to overtake then Iolus drew his sword cutting them down as he could.* Damn..*Atlanta used her dagger to cut down the Huns by stabbing the horses. Jason looked at his team working together as the snow fell. Arrows cut the snowflakes in half as the battle ensued.*

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack charged head first into the horses and jumped up tackling a rider to the ground. Stabbing the rider he dodged an arrow and pulled his blade out stabbing it into a horse. Pushing the horse into another Zack dodged a swipe and punched the attacker. Bringing his sword up he blocked an arrow sending it back to where it was fired. Looking around Zack saw a hun raise his curved sword and charge at him. Back stepping Zack caught the blade around his armor and drove his blade into the hun's neck. Slicing through the huns neck Zack moved his blade swiftly and stabbed a hun in the chest. Seeing a hun charge his horse toward him Zack side stepped and drove his blade into the horse. Taking out his throwing knives he tossed them into the stomachs of the unprotected huns. The huns believed that all armor did was slow you down when you needed to be swift and most of them preferred to fight on horseback. Swinging his sword he blocked an arrow and then drove his blade into another hun.*


*Mel side stepped and sliced through a horse's neck in one clean swipe and drove his sword into the hun that rode it.* Theres to many of them! We need to end this and soon! *Mel said to Jason as he kicked a hun in the chest and driving his sword into the hun. Pulling the sword out Mel caught an arrow and tossed it back into the hun that sent it flying. Back stepping he blocked a sword attack and drove his blade into the hun.*  

[Hercules]

*It was in that moment that small balls hit the ground exploding, it was as if none of them were able to breath as darkness hit them like a rock to the head. It was 3 hours later when the crew had awaken in chains under a palace. Tigers and bears were the caravan where the team was being held. Jason opened his eyes seeing that he was bound by chains to his hands and his feet he yelled out.* Is everyone okay? *Everyone yelled besides Hercules.* What in the 12 did they do with my grandson..*Perseus struggled against the chains, these was not simply iron from the Huns camps. Iolus yelled out.* This is Persian steel! *Jason looked at his hands and feet bound as he contemplated what was going on here.* Why would the Huns be working with the Persians..and this far out..*Atlanta looked to Zachary and did not speak, she was not taught to be one for emotions. Iolus on the other hand.* They probably tossed Hercules back into the mountain, these chains would not hold him...hes the son of Zeus...


*Iolus, was a bard among many things, he often told the stories of Hercules even before fame would find him. They had served in the academy together and Iolus would never leave the side of Hercules unless forced too.* Where is Zachary? Did they carve out his tongue? *Atlanta looked at Iolus.* Hush fool, look at the grounds..were not next to the mountain anymore..we are further east..the Huns were probably paid by the Persian to hunt down Greeks, we are all noble birth..we need to find solace...I do not see fortune as long as we are here! *She declared* 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack looked around blinking a few times his eyes starting to adjust to the darkness. He looked around at the others and gave Atlanta a reassuring smile before trying to struggle.* Iolus is right this is Persian steel its resistant to breaking and rust. The only way out of these chains are by using the key and seeing as Persians arent dumb enough to leave the key laying around. *Closing his eyes he opened them and the iris's turned red. Looking around he could see better in the dark. It was rumored that Romulus was an animagus and he passed the gene down to all of his decedent's. Zack was no exception meaning he could transform into a wolf at will. He looked at the right and sighed.* Where ever we are theres a tunnel to our right that should be our way out. *Pulling on the chains Zack managed to get himself to stand up the chains around his hands and feet rattling as he did.* We have to find Hercules and get the map piece before we end up stuck here. Persian guards tend to be drunks so if they left some they should be passed out.



*He reached over and pulled Mel up to his feet then helped the others to their feet as well. Mel looked at Zack* We have a couple problems with that plan Zackery. One we have no idea where in the hell we are or where the hell Hercules is and two even if we manage to find the guards and unlock these chains from around our hands and feet we'll still be weaponless and the whole country of Persia will be after us. *Zack smirked* not the whole country I have a history with their prince's intended. She should have some pull here and my uncle has some spies that should be able to help us out. With them and a bit of luck we should be able to get to the palace where Hercules is most likely being kept.

[Hercules]

*Hercules awoke in a room barely lit, even in this lighting he  could feel the spears at his body points poking him. He heard a voice rattling through the darkness.* We are not that different Hercules, even at this age your fame is growing. The Persians immortals told me of a demigod son that beat them with little effort. Training by the beast man..anyone that can make quick work of my men deserves to be addressed separately. *He could not see well but, he perked his ears as the man spoke as jagged daggers were flung at him. Hercules caught one moving to the side he used it to deflect another. The men that held him at bay moved as the blades were flung. He could see there movement even in the darkness. Hercules spoke.* Its funny that you know me and I have not even seen your face..come step into the light..*The voice did not reply then answered Hercules with laughter.* They say that the training at the academy is some of the most brutal training that not even Spartans receive such a difficult training session..but, we cannot all be Spartan warriors from the womb..no..some of us have to be broken down and rebuilt..


*Hercules found the next dagger as he flung it towards the voice who merely drew his barely but, the force of the sword blinded Hercules as the blade was deflected.* They say that your the son of the Gracion god of the skies? I have heard tales of this lude God impregnating woman and bedding heroes..they say you are kin to Perseus..how exciting that we both come from bastard races and our families hate one another..yet...your people paint me as a warlord and mine paint me as a hero..my father took in his bastards after learning that he was written on the streets only a boy..he grew by my side and together we conquered the lands of Persia..the lands..that would destroy your imagination...our Gods are revered here and in Egypt..your gods take different names in Rome...yet there is another set of them in the north...I must say the Huns are rather decent mercenaries..my men could not capture you but, a bunch of heretics with horses were more then enough for you..welcome Hercules..welcome to your end. 

*Inside the cages Iolus smiled, he kicked off his bounds before leaping from the step. They were bound in cages and even bound to the walls. Iolus tip toed to the end, the bars stopping him* They have trolls tigers and all sorts of creatures here..I wonder if it is to keep us here or to keep him out..*He referred to Hercules. Jason looked at Iolus.* You really are a thief aren't you Iolus, good my master was not wrong to trust you. Hurry and free us..we must make the greatest escape known to the Gods, may Hermes bless you in speed and skill my brother from the streets. *Iolus nodded, he looked to Zack.* Perhaps, I should leave Zachary here..so he can call for his snake mistress..*He grinned, he walked over to Jason and started messing with his bindings.* 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack rubbed his wrists where the chains were and looked back at Iolus.* So you're telling me that you could have done that ten minuets ago but you waited until I said something before you did it? You remind me of that tale about the prince of thieves. Except he managed to marry a princess and you have to pay a whore double in order to get her to give you a handy. *Zack smiled and walked to the bars and looked at the lock. Pulling some water out of the air he bent it into the lock and froze it. Freezing the locks insides made it expand and break then fall to the ground in pieces. Opening the door he took a step out and found something slither under him. Looking down he saw vipers as far as the eye could see slithering about.* Alright anybody got any fire that could help us out cause there seems to be a few thousand vipers of the ground. *Zack looked to Iolus and smirked.* Got any bright ideas about how to get us out of this situation prince of thieves?

[Hercules]

*Hercules looked at the men swinging their spears as the man spoke. He focused on the voice as he blocked daggers with daggers as he yelled out.* That sounds like a story I heard about from Chiron..your clearly Darius..*That was when Hercules shifted to the right he quickly grabbed a spear with one hand stopping the trust then with his left hand flung the man through the air as he used the spear to stop another spear as they snapped he rolled forward and shoved one of the daggers into the chin of the man then as the light rose from the floor Hercules looked at the face of Darius, he pulled held Clarent which was lighting the room.* Very good, and the immortals made you out to be a brute..*Then Darius moved forward in a spin he drove Clarent over head as Hercules blocked with his gauntlets. He shoved his hands back as Darius staggered back, Darius reached back and tossed a dagger towards Hercules as he flipped back.* Your friends are no doubt falling into my trap...


*Iolus looked at the snake as he pulled out a couple sticks that were tied to his leg as Atlanta tossed him a rock. Iolus quickly made a torch and tossed it to Zack. He then peered out as he yelled out to get the attention of the trolls who ran towards them then stopped once they saw the snake. Iolus looked at the crew members.* We can use the fire to lure the snakes to keep the animals away from us. *Perseus looked to Jason* We are probably closer to Persia now, perhaps fortune as smiled upon..

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack put the torch to the ground and watched as the snakes moved out of the way. Stepping down he helped the others down and took a step forward careful not to step on the snakes.* We need to be careful while down here the Persians like to set traps. *As they moved through the hall slowly they kept an eye on the trolls who were watching them. Looking at the walls Zack could see that they were covered in a layer of slime.* It looks like we might be under the palace in Babylon. I heard a story from my uncle once how he got put in one of the dark cells when he was younger and looking for an army to retake Rome from Hannibal. *Mel walked behind Zack  staying closer to the young hero.* Those stories he tells are true. I helped him retake the capital from Hannibal after he paid my band of sell swords. *Zack looked back at Mel and smiled* Im surprised he didn't offer you a governorship for that. *Mel chuckled.* He did but I refused him saying that the coin would be good enough. Come to think of it the old wolf still owes me a few thousand coins.

[Hercules]

*Hercules and Darius locked in battle as the Persians flooded into the room. Hercules leaped to the air grabbing daggers stabbing them into the roof using them to hoist himself as he blasted Darius in the chest with his feet. Hercules grabbed a spear from the ground as he looked at the immortals standing before him. Hercules then slammed into the ground as the floor shook sending them flying as Hercules turned he punched his way through solid stone. Darius stood yelling as Hercules left.* They are in a pit of illusions, if you join then you will only surcome to the madness that will take him..*He looked to his immortals.* Kill him..*Hercules run down the isles picking up a shield as he looked for the cell that contained his friends.* Where in 5 kingdoms are we? *He looked at the walls that still had Persian art but, it was cold like in the Huns land. Hercules climbed to the window seeing the cell. Purple water poured into it.* No! *He then leaped from the window falling fast to save his friends.* 


*Perseus walked a mist rise from the floor as the creatures changed shape. Perseus saw the snakes take the form of Medusa, he closed his eyes and yelled to his friends.* Do not look them in the eyes, they will turn you into solid stone! I have seen it..*Then in a moment's breath he felt himself being surrounded by water. He saw his parents falling in the ship just out of his reach he screamed.* NOOO! *During these events, Iolus saw the snakes changing into Orcs, he had never actually scene orcs but, the creatures before him seemed to be what Orcs were. He looked at the surroundings changed into a city, the orcs were raping and killing everyone.* NOO LEAVE THEM BE! *Jason looked at the two as if they were going mad.* By the 12? *He looked at Atlanta, she seemed to be fighting a army, he wondered what was going on as he drew his sword slicing through the fog to no avail. He turned to Zack* What madness has them wolf? 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack turned to see Meleager drawing his sword and it looked like he was scared out of his mind. Rushing to Meleager Zack put his hands on his shoulders and shook him.* Meleager it's not real! What ever you're seeing it isnt real! *Mel pushed Zack on to the ground and ran deeper into the hall. Stopping Mel turned to see his wife standing before him.* We couldn't you save us Meleager? We begged you not to leave for Rome but you did? *Mel looked down to see a little girl holding the woman's hand.* Why couldnt you save us daddy? Why! *Mel reached out to them but when he touched his wifes face she screamed out in pain. Looking at her chest Mel saw as blood began to pour out of her chest and the same happened to his daughter. He caught them as they fell to the ground their skin growing more and more pale. Their bodies soon fell through his arms like sand and he was surrounded by the bodies of the people of his village. Standing up he began to chase through the village trying to find someone still alive.*


*Seeing Mel run away Zack turned to Jason only to see him disappear and the mist swirling around him. When it cleared he looked around to see he was in a forest that was covered in snow.* No...no I can't be back here. *Sprinting through the forest Zack tried to find a way out but it was endless. Falling to his knees Zack looked at his hands and they were covered in fresh blood. Looking at his clothes he saw they were animal skins. He could feel the sticky blood in between his fingers and the taste of iron on his tongue. Throwing himself onto all fours he screamed out in pain as his bones began to break. His arm bent out and then back into place. Screaming out he could feel every bone in his body begin to break. Looking at his arms he could see his hair begin to grow longer covering his skin.*

[Hercules]

*Hercules landed in the pit barely avoiding the arrows of the Persian he had taken cloth of from his skirt that went of his shoulder and placed it over his mouth and his nose. He looked around hearing the screams of his comrades as he yelled out.* Is anyone there? *He looked around as he stepped into a puddle of blood, he felt sweat dripping down down his flesh as he blinked, he found himself in the halls of Crete, it was as if he were there all over again. He took a step not daring to believe his own eyes. He saw his father standing next to Minos as the sound of Minos voice seemed to drift off. Hercules ran to stop him as Minos stabbed Amphitryon. Hercules went to grab the Mad King but, his hands only touched purple dust. Then he heard howling off is the distance. Trees burst through the floor of the palace as Hercules was now in a snowy forest. Hercules turned seeing several black wolves running at him. The images of Minos's mouth moving played in his eyes as the wolves lunged at Hercules biting into his arms as the demigod through them off. * 

No, it couldn't be. *He though to himself as he fought off the wolf pack that attacked him and his family that still ran for their lives around them..* Julius Ceaser sends his regards..*Was all that Hercules could think about, had the mist shown him who killed his father? But how Julius Ceaser was in the Rome during the events known as the Red Wedding. As the wolves struck Hercules saw Jason and Perseus. He picked up his sword and jammed into into the wolves seeing them vanish into pink air it was the large wolf that Hercules saw as he blinked.* Ceaser, *Was he losing his mind? The sigal for the Ceasers was wolves, could the sisters of fate be showing him something.* CEASER! *Hercules screamed as he gripped his sword.* This fight in mine now! Go hast my friends for today my father gets justice..come Ceaser meet your fate! 

[Zack Ceasar]

*When the pain subsided Zack was a wolf looking at himself in a lake in the forest's of Norther Gaul. Hearing a rustling he bounded off toward it as fast as he could. Soon he came to a camp that seemed to have been put to the torch and Marc Antony was on his knees blood coming from a cut on his shoulder and his face covered in mud. Men appeared out of purple mist and they all surrounded Marc their swords pointed at him. The men were clad in armor from head to toe and their swords were sharper then anything else. The man in front of Marc brought his sword up in a move to decapitate. Zack charged at the man but when he got close the scene changed and Zack was in the senate room of Rome. Looking around he saw the senators all around him all wielding daggers in their hands. Feeling the first blade drive into his chest Zack looked around trying to figure out what was happening. Falling to the floor he grabbed his chest and looked up to see Octavian standing over him.*


*Right when Octavian's blade drove into his chest he gasped and covered his face with his robes. Feeling the cold hands of death wrap around his body he felt the warm sun against his face. Opening his eye's he was standing in a farming field and watched as two boys ran around playing. Zack couldn't recognize the boys but he felt as though he knew them. Walking toward them Zack went to reach for them but he found the fields blackened with fire and the boys gone. Was this real? Was what he was seeing real at all? Did it matter? Falling to the ground he saw Octavian standing over him wearing a crown on his head.* Only one Caesar may rule brother!

[Hercules]

*Hercules tossed the giant wolf into a tree, the sweat dripped down his muscles. He slowly walked to the wolf as chains ripped up from the ground wrapping around his limps.* FACE ME CEASER! *He looked at the wolf, he was bleeding as he looked at the wolves surrounding him.* I WILL NOT SUFFER THE FATE OF MY FATHER! *He tugged at the chains as Jason stood in front of him* WHO ARE YOU! *Hercules looked at the face standing before him, he saw his father.* I never sent you to Chiron's academy so that you could be a murder! I did not send you because of your bastard status! I sent you to make a difference! Stand proud my son and look with your eyes at the deceptions. WHO ARE YOU! *Hercules flexed screaming.* I AM HERCULES! *He ripped the chains up as the cavern shattered as boulders flew down towards them.  Hercules looked at he felt coolness looking at his hands bound by now dead Persians..he looked around seeing his friends have felt. Hercules looked at the wolf sensing his cousins presence.* 

*Hercules would panic only for a moment as he ran over to Zack slinging him over his own shoulder as he climbed the rocks as they fell. He took leaps and bounds as the cavern collapsed into itself..Hercules knelt as he yelled out to Iolus.* Quickly, bring the medicine..*Iolus walked over and started wrapping up the wounds his friend had been given. Jason looked at them.* The path to the desert is a few miles east, we need to hurry and get away from the Persians they are bound to notice this madness! Let us move Hercules can you carry Zachary? *Hercules nodded, they moved towards the stables and kidnapped horses that belonged to the Huns.*      

[Zack Ceasar]

*While passed out Zack felt Hercules through him over a horse and through brief moments of consciousness he could see they were being chased. When he woke up he was outside and a fire was roaring beside him. Waking with a start he grabbed his sword and found the blade springing to life in his hands. The rest of the Argonauts all jumped up and Zack could see that his waking up had startled them. Realizing where he was Zack made the blade fall back into the hilt and put it back on his hip.* Where are we? The last I knew we where in some cave and there was this purple mist. *The visions of what he saw were still swirling in his mind. He felt the pain of turning into a wolf and of feeling the daggers being drove into his chest. He could still see Octavian standing over him and the words Only one can rule! pouring out of his mouth like water from a cliff. His attention turned to the others who were obviously still shaken from what they had witnessed in their visions. Mel was sitting by the fire poking it with a stick silent as a mouse.* We need to get to Persia and fast before things get even worse.

[Hercules]

*They sat by the fires getting as far as they could. As Zack stood Hercules did as well.* Zachary, a word? *He walked with Zack far enough that the others could not hear what they said.* I wanted to take this time to tell you that I am sorry that I tossed you into the tree. The Persians had some fog that mad us go mad, everyone seemed to be out of it when I found them, the Sultan of Persia is behind this. I have told the others this, I wanted to let you know that I am sure I know what you saw and you know what I saw..but...Zachary...the fog took me to Crete..I saw Minos stabbing my father again..but...I saw his mouth wording the words...:Julius Ceaser sends his regards: I am chalking it up to madness but, as soon as I tried to grab Minos, I was attacked by wolves which is your house symbol..that is why I attacked you..I thought you were one of the wolves from the vision..


*Jason passed out outfits to the men.* Again we cannot be a bunch of Greeks riding into Persia, we need to be hidden which is why we are taking the backroute to Babylon, I suspect that its not in Babylon though, so we head to the holy city..where the dagger was found..you guys remember the story of the bastard of Babylon? *Iolus smirked, he placed some food over the fire.* The sultans bastard and Darius took the holy city and discovered the mystical sand that once you placed the sand in the dagger you would be able to reverse time. Its said that Darius used this dagger to conquer the deserts and rage his war against the Asians..its also said that Dustain returned the dagger to the temple that is once rested in.. 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack was silent listening to how Hercules was talking about the red wedding and put a hand under his chin.* We both know that my uncle feared that war with Greece was unavoidable but do you really think he could slaughter your house? Its true that your father and my uncle held ill will toward each other but they were friends once. I mean my uncle offered you and your brother citizenship after he heard about what happened. Im sure that what you saw was just your mind playing tricks on you. Who knows maybe it was Darius trying insight the war that your Oracle has been talking about for years. *Zack was referring to a prophecy that was first spoken of many years ago. It was said that this war would plunge wolves against dragons and lions against vipers. A war of that scale would raze the country side burning low borns in their huts and high borns in their castles alike.* You had your vengeance against the ones who were responsible for the death of your father. Theres no need to put that hatred toward someone else who is not worthy of it. Go to sleep Hercules me and Mel will take first watch i'll wake you when the moon is highest in the sky.


*Zack pat Hercules on the shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile walking towards Mel who was still staring at the fire poking it. Zack sat beside him and took out a pouch opening it up. Taking a long drink he offered some to Mel who gave him a look.* Relax it's water *He poured a bit out and Mel took it taking a long drink passing it back to Zack. Zack looked at the fire and began to bend the water out of the bottle playing with it.* Im not gonna pretend that you didn't see something horrible in the vision. I think we all did but we have a job to do and thats to save the life of Jason's father. *Mel looked at Zack and gave him a faint smile life returning to his eyes.* You remind me of your uncle when he was a young man. You both care more then you'd like to admit but both of you have your guards up. What ever you saw Zackery know that it was a dream and nothing more. 

[Hercules]

*Hercules walked back to the camp as he looked at the men sleeping, he laid next to Iolus as Zack took watch. It was as the sun rose over them that Jason rose and was packing the horses. As they rose they were cloaks pretending to be merchants. They saw the massive walls that protected Persia country from the north. Jason looked to Zack, he cleared his voice.* We can ride into Asia and seek the aid of the Emperor or we can ride into the desert and head through death valley and head for the royal city..*Iolus looked at Zack* You met the King of China didn't you? *Hercules looked at Jason and his comrades, Perseus said nothing as moved his cloak over his face. They hid their weapons so that they would try to not have them taken at the boarder, even in this moment they could feel the heat of the desert.* 


*Atlanta looked to Jason* We may need rations, the Huns stole our horses besides Pegasus, it would be unwise to march into the desert with how we are now, perhaps the China men can offer a cloak of illusions..men never know when the Amazon come into the villages because, we blend. It is one of our ranger tricks..what say you Jason..you are our captain...

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack sat atop his horse and looked at Jason.* Like Atlanta said we have no rations and are almost out of water. Going through the desert would be suicide by thirst if the scorpions didn't attack us first. *It was rumored that the deserts surrounding Persia were filled with giant scorpions who would attack anything they saw with fire.* The only real option that we have is to go through China but that isn't without it's risks. If Emperor Wu honors his treaty with Darius then he'd have to report any suspicious people to him especially if we're posing as merchants without anything to sell. *Zack looked at Jason and shrugged his shoulders.* What do you say Giant man eating scorpions that breath fire or we face the Emperor and roll our dice? *Zack grabbed his water pouch and took a sip of water passing it around the group. His thoughts moved to the last time he was in China. A smile formed on his face.* I've known the emperor since we were children. My uncle does some trading with them it's how they get steel and how we get wares. My vote is for China.

[Hercules]

*Jason nodded, it was rare when he agreed with the wolf.* Then we have no choice, we ride for China..I hope that his standing with you is well enough that he would betray his treaty with the heathens of the sand..*Hercules looked to the shorter man that spoke.* I would not think to go into Persia at all, my brother has declared himself to the armies of my cousin, perhaps we shall see him out here..*Iolus looked to Atlanta, he smiled.* This will be as far east as I have ever been..*Perseus was silent as he looked into the path that they took, his family had a private war with Darius for many years that begun with his generation.* Perhaps, I should not join you..*Jason turned as he placed his hand on the shoulder of Perseus.* I would not have this glory without you my brother, you are as much a part of this as I or Hercules...gather the horses...we move towards the boarder..*He walked to the fire picking up his shield slinging it over his back.* 


*Soon the legendary Argonauts rode to the wall seeing the Persian guards protecting the boarder. Jason looked up as he watched the man step down and open a sliding piece of wood.* What business do you have here? *Jason stepped forward.* Are are merchants, we mean to ride to China..*The rest of the men sat in silence. The man looked to the men.* Open the gates! *He ordered as the men pulled open the massive doors allowing them to ride past and then the men closed them. Hercules rode up to Jason.* There are many spies in Persia, let us hurry to China..we have friends there..since we made our impression on the Huns, the mortal enemies of the Emperor..

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack rode through the gates and looked out into the distance to see a city shining like a jewel in a mine.* Once we get to the city you should let me do all the talking. The Chinese arent like the five kingdoms and they won't hesitate to kill any of us. When we get to the capital chances are we will be met with their warriors. The Samurai are very honorable but they might as well be mercenaries for the Emperor himself. *Zack looked to Jason and then to the others studying their faces. Zack took off his hood when they got closer to the city seeing another large wall. The guard at the top of it yelled down to them.* 誰去那裡！(Who goes there!) *Zack rode to the front of the Argonauts and looked up to the guard.* 我是凱撒的房子，我是叔叔的命令，來檢查貿易的事務。 我們在海上失去了一件貨物，我要告訴皇帝這件事. (I am Zackery of house Caesar and I have come by order of my uncle to check on the affairs of trade. We lost a shipment at sea and I am to speak to the Emperor about it.) 



*The guards talked to each other and opened up the gates revealing an oasis in the desert. As they rode into the city they saw merchants at their stalls talking in a foreign language that most of the Argonauts couldn't understand. Zack looked at Jason.* You can take your hood off now they wont know who you are but they know you arent a merchant. We need to get to the castle so that we can speak to the Emperor we wont have long before he knows we're here.

[Hercules]

*They left the Persian path and entered the vast and lush lands of China, they were notorious warriors throughout the lands, even the priests were famed warriors. Hercules lowered his hood looking at the vast land. Farmers out in the open, the tea brewers and field workers reminded Hercules of his home in Thebes. He found a familiar feeling as the rode throughout the countryside. Jason rode next to Zachary.* Let us not bed some of the local girls, I would hate to spend another night chained to a wall..*He patted Zack on the shoulder, as they rode he looked at the land that was very different that the Greek lands. Perseus did not remove his cloak, he felt uneasy in the foreign land. He would not ever feel comfortable this close to Persia. Iolus looked at Zack* Where is the wall? I have read so much about this wall of China? 

*Atlanta shot him a glare.* Must you always speak? *Hercules smirked, he grabbed the reigns slowing down.* Give Iolus a break, he has never been to this strange land. Not all of us has a famous uncle hell bent on us seeing the world before we can walk..I think I like the Samurai..they remind me of my home land....*Perseus glanced over to Hercules, the boy probably did not remember Argos even though he was born there. Amphitryon had raised the boy in Thebes after Stenulus had declared war against him. Perseus had a pit in his stomach ever since his grandson and his kin were murdered on Crete..Perseus placed his hand under his cloak on the handle of his sword.*

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack looked at the rest of them and gave them a weak smile.* It's not my fault my uncle wishes me to know about all our allies. I was fostered in Greece and soon after I came here. The year or two I spent here weren't all fun games either most of the time I spent it training and learning the language. Their alphabet doesn't have letter's they have characters which makes it hard to pronounce. They don't speak much of the common tongue around here and the few that do are royals and other nobility. *Riding through the city Zack got off his horse and tossed Jason the reigns.* I'll be back in a second theres something I need to grab wait right here and don't talk to anyone. *Zack walked down an allyway and opened the door to a building disappearing from sight. He walked to the man who was standing at the counter.* 狼與蛇在蛇蠍的土地上跑 (The Wolf runs with dragons in the lands of the viper)  *The man at the counter reached below the counter and pulled out a sack of coins and put it on the table.* 狼和龍必須戰鬥打敗蛇。 (Wolves and Dragons must fight to beat snakes.)



*Grabbing the coins off the counter Zack bowed to the man before leaving and going back to the group.* I have coins so we aren't dirt poor any more. *Looking up Zack saw that the group was surrounded by Samurai holding cross bows and swords pointing them at the group.* Iolus what did I say about talking to people.

[Hercules]

China:


                                        *Hercules looked at the slanted swords that the Samurai carried, even as far as Greece was Chiron told them stories of the men from the east. Famed archers that would surpass even Orion. Their armor covered every point of access to their bodies, they the banner of their emperor but, more then that they honored their families, their ancestors. Hercules found his respect for these people growing. He did not wear armor but, he longed to carry his fathers sword. As Zack approached them, Perseus was just about to draw his sword when Jason grabbed his wrist telling him to stay his hand.* Our battle is not with these men..stay your hand..*Iolus was found with a katana blade pressed against his cheek as he rose his hands as if to say "What I do?" Atlanta looked as if she needed a drink.* We should have left him in Avalon, he would doom the walkers..



*Hercules looked to the men, his look was that of respect with was why Iolus still kept his head. Hercules looked to Zack* I thought you were searching for a brothel..its been what? Ten minutes sense you have had a woman..*He joked to Zack as he walked to them. Hercules glanced seeing the Emperors guard off in the distance their bows ready. Hercules knew that he would not go down easy but, he respected these people and did not mean to bring them harm* 

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack ran infront of the men and raised his hands up* 這是什麼意思？ 這些人是我的衛兵降下你的胳膊！ (Whats the meaning of this? These men are my guards lower your arms!) *The general walked forward his arming moving along with his movements. He wore a face mask that concealed his identity and had a long curved blade at his side known as a katana and a shoto blade beside that.* 這些人是格拉西安，我們要帶他們到細胞！ 不要干擾這狼，你沒有力量在這裡！(These men are Gracian and we are to bring them to the cells! Do not interfere with this wolf you have no power here!) *Zack glared toward the man and took off his cloak tossing it into the mud.* 你不尊重我的朋友，所以我挑戰你單戰斗在這裡現在你接受嗎？(You have disrespected my friends so I challenge you to single combat do you accept?) *The general nodded and tosses Zack a katana from a soldiers side. Grabbing it Zack charged the man and took a Kento stance. The two bowed to each other and locked blades for a second.*



*Zack moved quickly and drove the blade through the kinks in the armor of the Samurai general. Tossing the blade back to it owner Zack kicked the general's body over and picked up his blades securing them to his hip.* 帶我們到皇帝或面對與你的一般命運相同的命運！(Take us to the Emperor or face the same fate as your general!) *Zack got back on his horse and looked at Jason as the Samurai lowered their weapons sheathing them.* It's by right I won the sword fair and square. *Tossing the sack of coins to Jason Zack smiled.* We shouldn't have anymore trouble with them now.

[Hercules]

*Jason looked at Zack as he caught the gold from mid air.* We have not been in China for ten minutes and you have already killed someone..Hera have mercy on me..*Hercules rose a brow as he smirked, he looked at the dead warrior as his friends said nothing.* Good luck with that Jason, the Hera I knew had never been one for mercy..*Jason rose his brow as they walked to the see the Emperor.* You know Hera?  I know that your the son of Zeus..but...*Hercules stopped his statement.* I don't know her personally, when my brother and I were just infants she sent serpents into our crib. My mother told me that she found me playing with them after having crushed them to death..*He looked forward as Jason looked shocked at Hercules. How could someone like this exist he wondered to himself.* So Zachary, I assume we have a plan or did you want us to fight the legions of Samurai and just run in and take the rations? *He joked, giving the wolf shit.* 

*Iolus was in awe of the lands of China. The legend of the Samurai told of a people that would rather die then surcome to imperfection.  Iolus looked to his bow and wondered how he measured up to the best bowman in the 5 kingdoms. He looked to Hercules, he was surprised by the story every time that he heard it.* Perseus, do you have stories like that? *Perseus looked to Iolus, he seemed to think of his question.* There is no man, that I heard of that was born crushing monsters Lord Iolus..I was born in the tower of my mothers palace, her father meant for her to starve believing that she had slept with Zeus..in truth the God had seduced my mother..her father tossed us out into the Augean with nothing more then a box to conceal us..*Jason looked to Perseus.* That King no long rules? *Perseus grinned, he placed his hand on his sword handle under his cloak.* That man is dead, I marched my armies against him as soon as the golden crown touched my head...

I would secure the future of Argos..*Atlanta smiled as she looked at Perseus.* I remember my father declaring for Amphitryon, he was a good king. As soon as Stenulus took Argos my sisters and I went to the free city..we could not serve a false King with good heart....we bent the knee to Artemis and her will..*She looked to Zachary with a sly smile that formed into a smirk once there eyes met. She had completely concealed her weapons in her cloak.* We shall succeed and forever be talked about in the 5 kingdoms my friend..my uncle had his brothers best interest in heart I assure you..

[Zack Ceasar]

*Zack smirked and rode beside Jason.* We wont need to fight legions of samurai to get our rations. The emperor will give us shelter for the night and rations along with fresh horses. *When they got to the steps of the palace Zack dismounted his horse.* Stay close and don't make any sudden movements they have archers everywhere. *Climbing the steps he looked at both sides of the steps looking at the Samurai who had their hands on their katana's. Pushing the doors to the palace open Zack walked inside followed closely by the others. The palace was unlike anything in the five kingdoms. The somber feeling in the air was added to by a small fountain that was going in the corner. The art work looked as though it was done with ink instead of paint. The works of art depicted dragons being slayen by samurai and of rival clans fighting against each other for supremacy. Zack turned to the others and saw the shocked looks upon their faces and gave them a smile.* Welcome to the palace of The Qin dynasty my friends.


*The Emperor looked to Zack and his friends sitting in his throne a stern look on his face. Zack approached and took a knee motioning for the others to do the same. The Emperor stood up and his slaves flushed out his robes that were the color of crimson. He walked to Zack and motioned for him and the others to stand up.* Your uncle did not send word of your return prince Zackery *Zack stood and gave a smile.* Since when do I need to have my uncles approval for anything.. *The Emperor smiled and chuckled hugging Zackery and turned to the other Argonauts.* Any friend of wolves is a friend of mine! Come we shall have a feast and fresh robes for you all!