Fate or Forged

Ashford Heath, 1287The Ardenholt Republic stands upon untested legs.

For five years, Robert Darnaval, an indomitable warrior, carved a path of death and destruction, forging the foundation of this new era through blood and toil. Feared by his enemies and reviled by many, he was known across the land as "Il Titano di Pietra"-The Titan of Stone.

Yet even the hardest rocks wear with time. Crippled in battle and for atonement of his deeds, Robert swore an oath-to lay down his sword, raise a family, and live out his days in quiet tranquility.

But old memories seldom fade. And bad habits die hard.

Now, he finds himself among men grown soft in the peace he secured, their hands unstained by struggle, their spirits dulled by comfort. But peace is never eternal. The signs of an impending enemy flicker on the horizon, and Robert knows that when war comes, these men will not be ready.

Left with no good options, he makes a fateful choice - His son will not share their weakness. He will be shaped into a warrior, tempered by discipline, and hardened for the storm to come.

For the Ardenholt Republic was not born of chance. It was forged by men of stone. And when the hour comes, its heirs will be ready to defend it.