Pen-Magic Blog

  “Listen up!” The entirety of the battalion instantly snapped to attention. The Taskmaster strode across the myriad of soldiers who stood shoulder-to-shoulder, cleft into rows based on their corps and rank. I stood amongst the constituents of the 99th ‘Misfits' Squad. “Members of the 12th Battalion, ye find yourself on an Imperial mining facility. Savour this moment ‘s long tis possible. This side o’ the planet ‘as the most pristine air.” The battalion was engulfed in a series of coughs and wheezes. I felt vulnerable. My right knee shuddered in impromptu anguish. I hastily rectified my blunder and stood upright again. The edges of the Taskmaster’s lips curved in delight. His expression would forever endure in my memory. “Welcome to Valinor-III. Welcome, to your nightmare.”   We were fortunate. As a decorated squad, we were assigned a rather innocuous task. We were stationed at the top of the Commandant’s tower. The Commandant ran the facility. The facility is safeguarded by 3...

  THE LEAGUE OF KINGDOMS Arnav Rayaprolu: Pen-Magic Club The streets of Salawar, the capital of Vahyaj, were full of chaotic excitement. People were hustled over at any corner, bakery, shop, or stall that were visible. The only noise that could be heard was the chatter and gossip of citizens. “Did you hear? The orb was stolen last night.” “I can’t believe it…how could it happen?” Newspaper boys ran around eagerly, knowing that today they would be able to afford those candies they longed for. The gates of the palace were crowded, and rocks were being thrown for the first time in 100 years. Nothing could be done. The orb, the holder of peace, of alliances, was stolen. “My king…12 local guards have been reported killed in action. 5 Treaty Keepers have been fatally wounded.”  “The Treaty Keepers too? This is bad. It slipped right under our noses. The question is, who would’ve done it?” The king of Vahyaj hurried to his chamber. He always began his day quickly. At The Crest, no mem...