"I do not fear you, von Strehlheim." Sir Orin replied, "I have waited long for this day. You slew my father when he discovered your dark secret fifteen years ago. This time, you shall not walk away."

And so battle was joined on the very steps of the Emperor's throne. throne, as Weissmann escorted his lord to safety. They fought long and hard, for both were excellent swordsmen, and the floor of the chamber ran red with their mingled blood. Yet Sir Orin had the mastery, for he was younger and fitter than his opponent, and he had righteousness on his side. There von Strehlheim was despatched to meet the dark Gods he had worshipped for so long, and the floor of the Emperor's chamber was stained with his dark blood

Sir Orin slumped exhausted on the steps of the throne, then looked around the room. "Where is Sir Marc?" he called to Weissmann, for he could not see the traitorous knight.

"He has escaped." Weissman replied, "He must have had a bound spell of teleportation or some other magic - he seemed to vanish into thin air just as he was seized."

"Well then, come forward Sir Robert." Sir Orin called, "Here is a quest of knighthood for you, if there ever was one. You shall track and find Sir Marc and fulfil that which has been prophesied. You shall bring back his broken sword as proof of your victory and his disgrace. Do not fear, doom and the Lady are with you, and it is said rightly that a knight who dishonours his sword will have it break in his hour of need. Go now, before the trail is cold. I believe he will head north."