Chapter 1

A harrowing storm engulfs the remnants of a small town on the frozen continent of Hirium. Pillars of smoke and flickering blue flames dot the area with shadows that dance along the landscape. 

"My friend, from whence I called thee. Fear not the cold nor wind."

A tower sits in the center of the town, overlooking the area below. Flames rise up through the eyes of the solemn face.

"Though bare the land and country, we shall prevail again"

A small explosion and the sounds of a scuffle can be heard through the storm. Shadows of varying sizes chase after each other. One man, donned in a large fur coat, strikes down one of the shadows, setting it aflame. 

"My friend, from whence I called thee. With Spears akin to flame. I ask of you a favor. To fight with me again."

Through the smoke, two children walk alongside each other as they traverse through the battlefield.

"Our homes of stone and steel. Now left to ash and rot. Our clan of might and fury. Whose death for which they sought"

As they cautiously brave the storm, the older boy notices the bodies of several adults lying motionless in the snow. The flames around them bring forth enough light to see their general surroundings. The rubble of homes litter the landscape around them, and in the distance they see one man fighting off several creatures alone. Hatchlings, it seemed, wanting to eat their fill. They resembled large lizards with icy spikes along their bodies and small wings on their back. The man dispatched them in moments, thrusting his spear violently within the bodies of each beast.

The boys watch on, motionless, the younger of which moving closer behind him. The man plants his spear into a dead hatchling, breathing heavily as he takes off his hood. He closes his eyes, letting the wind hit his face. With his breaths steady, he opens his eyes to see the boys staring at him. Walking toward them, the boys take a step back at first until the man comes into view. It is a familiar face, but not the one they were searching for. 

Another explosion goes off and the older boy looks around before looking up at the man who has a saddened expression on his face. 

"Are they…"

The man shakes his head, turning it toward the direction of one of the fallen buildings. Through the smoke the boys finally see what they are looking for. Two bodies partially covered in snow and soot lie in the street. The older boy begins breathing heavily and tears well up in his eyes. He falls to his knees, the boys hugging each other. 

"Our enemy, a savior. I ask of you, my friend. "

"Fear not her spears of cold, for Claw must rest again"