THE GREEN TEMPLAR SAGA - Search for the Blazing Glory! [Archive]

Fried Green Tomato

Aug 6, 2002, 02:00 PM

THE GREEN TEMPLAR SAGA – Search for the Blazing Glory
(SIDESTORY OF THE CONTINENT OF THE RING)

There was anarchy and chaos all over the island. A motley crowd, full of anger and hatred, started to indiscriminately set into fire everything in sight. The haphazard and arbitrary destruction of the island was committed for no sensible reason – an act of total defiance to known common law and order! Peace was no longer possible in the mystical island of Ancient Atlantis.

It was the lasting legacy left behind by the Azure Empire or the City of Azure before leaving the island more than 20 years ago. A scar that was imprinted in the minds of the inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis. A stigma that eternally haunted the souls of future generations. The decade of violence, that rages out of wrath and frustration initiated by the Azure Empire was an irreversible malady. A curse that was slowly killing the life out of Ancient Atlantis. A curse that only the Benevolent Greens could possibly solve. Moreover, the only doable solution was for the Benevolent Greens to leave Ancient Atlantis in pursuit of the Blue Hooded Thugs into the other dimension – to the parallel universe of the Continent of the Ring!

And so it happened, the Gentle Green Land became the last city to leave Ancient Atlantis. It was a supreme sacrifice on the part of the Benevolent Greens to leave the island they have called HOME, but leave they must do in order to save Ancient Atlantis from further putrefaction and to eliminate the Culture of Violence imparted by the Azure Empire through the Curse of Hatred. And three years after the Azure Empire departed, The Benevolent Greens bid farewell to Ancient Atlantis in a journey of no return. They knew that is was a crusade of the highest calling and critical importance. The future of the fabled Ancient Atlantis was in the hands of the Benevolent Greens. It was the trip of a lifetime.

But upon leaving Ancient Atlantis, a group of courageous and loyal Green Knights was left behind to protect Ancient Atlantis from further deterioration and to guard the Blazing Green Torch in the sacred GreenHills. The Green Knights were members of the highest order of knighthood – the fiercest and toughest of all Knights! Only a few knew not about the existence of such a group in the Green Knights Order. Only a few knew about the GREEN TEMPLARS OF THE BLAZING GREEN TORCH! And here we begin the saga….

ANCIENT ATLANTIS – The Golden Times

A long, long time ago in a far, far away galaxy, in a parallel universe that contradicts time and space, there was an island in the center of the majestic planet called EARLY EARTH that was the melting pot of the best and most gifted inhabitants. It was an island of incomparable beauty and splendor – an island known as the NATIONAL CONFEDERATION OF ANCIENT ATLANTIS (NCAA).

The National Confederation of Ancient Atlantis was an island unlike all the other islands in Early Earth as its inhabitants were superior in all aspects: Highly intellectual, physically strong and deeply emotional. There was another island of significant importance, but this island was inhabited by magical populace not of pure human compositions. This was the island of Leumeria – the spiritual island of Early Earth and the transit hub towards the parallel universe. The inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis were almost immortal in skills and intelligence that was only a level lower to the “deities” from the other dimension – the Continent of the Ring.

Ancient Atlantis had a very rich tradition – a history of greatness, successes and accomplishments never attained by the other islands. But there was a dark side to Ancient Atlantis, there were always brief moments of violence erupting every now and then, a sign of spiritual immaturity that has plagued the inhabitants ever since. Amidst the greatness of the inhabitants, they were still emotionally infantile. Passion and emotion prevailed most of the time over reason and logic. The sensitivities of the inhabitants became a weakness that was exploited by the Azure Empire to the hilt. A trait that would do more harm than good for them, but they were too late when they realized their frailty

Ancient Atlantis had eight great cities built all over the island at the height of its glory. Eight cities of different races, cultures and beginnings. At its inception, Ancient Atlantis was the original home of the Plebeian Republic, Pontifical State, The Azure Empire and the Gentle Green Land. Four kingdoms now with the Continent of the Ring. These kingdoms were cities before and departed the island for different reasons. Some evolved into a higher stage of spirituality and emotional maturity, one was EVICTED from the island and the other one was forced to pursue a higher cause in doing so.

For many years, Ancient Atlantis had the prestige and glamour as the prime island in the planet. In the golden years of Ancient Atlantis, the power and influence of the island was fell over the planet – an over empowering presence before. Even inhabitants of the other islands had to visit Ancient Atlantis as a pilgrimage site. Ancient Atlantis was considered an ostentatious and flashy place – a source of immeasurable power and wealth. It is the land of opportunity and inspiration to many who aspire of being great and famous someday.

But with the eviction of the Azure Empire and the sudden departure of the Gentle Green Land from the confederation of cities, the golden years of Ancient Atlantis slowly seized to an end. This was further compounded with the abundance and rapid worsening condition in the island. Ancient Atlantis became the site of hostilities and bloodsheds – a savage ground of terror. The deterioration of peace and order mixed with the rise of hooliganism made Ancient Atlantis an unfavorable island of destination. There was no more system and tranquility for those who were left behind. The cities became stagnant and complacent with the stature they thought they still have with them. Ancient Atlantis was slowly sinking under the weight of its incompetence. The stagnation of growth and development was slowly killing them.

For almost twenty years after the departure of the Gentle Green Land, Ancient Atlantis was hemorrhaging to a slow death. They have lost the stature and reputation as the premier island of Early Earth. Even with the infusion of a new and invigorated law within the island, there was no return to old glory.

THE POWER BRAWL SERIES

Every year, for three long months, Ancient Atlantis was in a virtual standstill for the greatest event for its citizens – the POWER BRAWL SERIES. Far more than honor and pride, the Power Brawl Series was the culmination of all the hard work and dedication they strived for the whole year. The eight cities of Ancient Atlantis trained their best men in an effort to win the most coveted price – the GOLDEN BEACON OF ATLANTIS! For a year, the favored city would have the honor of bringing home the Golden Beacon. It was the source of pride and prestige a city could possibly reap – greater than all the wealth in the entire planet.

The Power Brawl series was a rugged and rough game where 16 members from each team would try to outplay, out hustle and out maneuver the opponents through defensive plays, brilliant strategies and basic wit! It is the human version of the “Days of the Blinded Truth” battle in the Continent of the Ring. The goal was to eliminate the opponents through submission in a physical contact brawl and eventually capture the opponent’s flag. The Power Brawl series was a crude game that dates back to the early civilizations in Ancient Atlantis. It was a tribute to the victory of the first group of inhabitants of the island against an invading force. It was a long and physically intensive battle; they struggled but in the end repelled the intruders. For the remarkable feat, they were called the BEACON OF ATLANTIS, as a lasting tribute to them; the group who wins the Power Brawl Series was awarded with the Beacon of Atlantis.

And this was the paradox of Ancient Atlantis. While the Cities of Atlantis reached the ultimate progress as compared to the other islands, they still had great passion and excitement in a brutal and barbaric game. For three long months, the inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis breath, talk and live with the Power Brawl Series all day and all night. Nothing much was accomplished during this season as the cities rallied behind their teams with great enthusiasm and outrageous fanaticism. The long holiday was usually spent camping around the neutral ground of Risk-All Memorial Coliseum, where multitude of fans from all cities converged. Camped into eight groups, there was always big festivity around, not to mention the rumbles that went along with the stay. Although there was the visible presence of the Storm Troopers, the intense arguments between opposing camps and street brawls were inevitable.

In the Golden Years of the Power Brawl Series, four teams were prominently known for the intense support and loyalty of their followers, and they were The Azure Empire, The Red Sphinx City, The Camelot Yard and the Gentle Green Land.

At first, the rivalry between the Azure Empire and the Red Sphinx was the center of attraction. For many years, these two teams always had good players that made them serious contenders in the Power Brawl Series. They fought several times in the Power Brawl Finals and even the elimination games were full of high spirits and energy. The excitement in the games translated into fracas later, which led to numerous violent casualties and even death.

There was also the rivalry between the Camelot Yard and the Gentle Green Land. To some, this was called the Battle of the Knights – The Knights of the Green Order against the Crusading Knights of Pages & Squires. Although it was an intense rivalry, the Gentle Green Land became more powerful in strength compared to the Camelot Yard, and most of their games were lopsided in favor of the Knights of the Green Order. But to their supporters nothing changed, the intense rivalry was still there. As if it was fate’s decision, a new rivalry that was more potent and everlasting emerged….. The fabled enmity between the AZURE EMPIRE and the GENTLE GREEN LAND.

These two cities of different ideologies, philosophies and outlook in life had the most colorful, contentious and even deadliest rivalry in the history of the Power Brawl Series. Although the two teams met only thrice in the finals of the Power Brawl Series, all the games between the two were filled of thrills and suspense even out shadowing the series itself. Every encounter was considered a classic wherein both teams gave their all even at times when the game was a no-bearing contest. The tenacity of the teams and the fervor of the supporters made the Azure Empire and the Gentle Green Land the all-time greatest rivalry that would encompass two dimensions – The National Confederation of Ancient Atlantis (NCAA) & Universal All Apostolic Planet (UAAP). Moreover, the rivalry evolved to a deeper animosity between the two – The Good versus The Evil.

When these two great rivals were no longer members of Ancient Atlantis, the Power Brawl Series became a lackluster affair. The followers dwindled because of extreme conditions; the incessant mediocre players and the general apathy amongst the inhabitants. The source of unwarranted social behavior was the Curse of Hatred. It brought out the dark side of men.

For almost twenty years, the Power Brawl Series became a non-issue for most. The prestige of the Beacon of Atlantis was diminished and tainted by the ills of the society. And the inhabitants heard of the DAYS OF THE BLINDED TRUTH BATTLE!

The visionaries, sorcerers, clairvoyants and seers from the island of Leumeria told stories about the great battles in the Days of the Blinded Truth. They narrated the great ordeals, magical powers and travails of the armies; all immortals to the mind of the listeners. And even in the island of Ancient Atlantis, year after year the struggle between Good and Evil were more appealing and fascinating to them.

The appeal of the Power Brawl Series became ordinary when inhabitants compared it with the Battles in the Days of the Blinded Truth. Although the Power Brawl Series survived, only the purists amongst the inhabitants were still hooked with it. The support coming from the younger generation declined, but there was still hope for a reinvigorated Power Brawl Series. There was the second coming, less glamorous but very intense!

THE CITIES OF ATLANTIS

In the past, they still remembered the great old cities of the golden years such as the Azure Empire or the City of Azure, The Plebeian Republic, The Pontifical State and the Gentle Green Land. While a few knew and heard of the Mercurial County of Utopia (MCU) and the Trinity Road as former members of the Confederation, these cities never stayed long enough to be considered as pillars of Ancient Atlantis. The phenomenal rise and eventual fall of these member cities made the Council of Elders selective and critical of cities suddenly sprouting and joining the confederation.

The departure of The Azure Empire and the Gentle Green Land shrunk the number of cities into six until the City of Marina was accepted. The last city to be (re) accepted was the descendants of the Gentle Green Land – the Blazing Green Metropolis.

The cities of Ancient Atlantis were vibrant and unique from each other, the strengths and weaknesses of the cities depended on the inherent attributes they possessed. The eight surviving cities of Ancient Atlantis were:

1. Bum Bay City – is a militarized and industrialized zone in the eastern part of Ancient Atlantis. It was the center of production for heavy machinery and military components. The inhabitants lived in portable cabins strategically placed near the factories where they worked.

[/I]City - Bum Bay City
Race - Bummers
Team - Bummer Squadron
Mascot - The Bum!!![/I]

2. Camelot Yard – One of the few original members still with the Confederation. The Crusading Knights of the Pages and Squires were a proud race with rich history in the Power Brawl Series. An original rival of the Gentle Green Land, they had ardent and dedicated supporters that could easily match the zeal and enthusiasm of their opponents. A fairly decent city of workers and small business entrepreneurs with little political clout.

City - Camelot Yard
Race - Pages and Squires
Team - Crusading Knights
Mascot - Knight in Shining Armor

3. Centaur Bastion – The home of the Stags and the wilds. The city came to prominence only lately - a decade or so ago. A miscellany of inhabitants with mediocre existence when the Azure Empire and Gentle Green Land were still around. The stags were always there but remained in the background. With the departure of the two, they had the opportunity to rise and grow but never to real prominence.

City - Camelot Yard
Race - Pages & Squires
Team - Cavalier’s Brigade
Mascot - Wild Stallion

4. Cardinal Lane – The technology hub of the island. Since the beginning, the city concentrated its effort in the advancement of science and technology. The Robins were an intelligent race but they had little passion for real power.

City - Cardinal Lane
Race - Robins
Team - College of Cardinals
Mascot - mocking bird

5. Titan City – located in the southern outskirt of the island. An unknown race with unknown history of excellence. To some, they were the City of the Lost Souls. Not known to be good Power Brawl Series team, the Titan Giants were almost good for nothing.

City - Titan City
Race - Atlas
Team - Titan Giants
Mascot - Atlas with a globe

6. City of Marina – the city from the sea. On the northern tip of the island, the porpoise emerged to become a city. The City of Marina was the second youngest team of the confederation. The inhabitants mostly lived and survived from the resources of the ocean. Same with the Titan City, there was nothing significant about Marina.

City - City of Marina
Race - Porpoise
Team - Fleet of Dolphins
Mascot - Dolphins

7. The City of Sphinx – one of the original founders of the Confederation. A city rich in tradition and a history of Power Brawl excellence before. The City of Sphinx had a proud and opulent past that was comparable only to the Azure Empire and the Gentle Green Land. Sadly, for the past 20 years or more, the Red Sphinx never had a good season in the Power Brawl Series. Gone were the days of dominance for them.

City - The City of Sphinx
Race - DOMs
Team - Red Sphinx Army
Mascot - Red Sphinx

8. The Blazing Green Metropolis – the newest member of the confederation of Ancient Atlantis. The city was also called the City of Blaze. A young race coming from the line-age of the Benevolent Greens. They were the inheritors of the Great GreenHills when the Gentle Green Land departed the confederation. If not for their fathers, the Legion of Green Templars, Ancient Atlantis would have been doomed.

City - The Blazing Green Metropolis
Race - TheBenign Greens
Team - The Blazing Templars of the Green Order
Mascot - The Blazing Green Torch

THE EVICTION OF THE AZURE EMPIRE

Unknown to many who thought that the Azure Empire voluntarily left the Island of Ancient Atlantis, the true story was never revealed before. The Azure Empire was CASTED OUT of the island.

About twenty years ago, the Azure Empire was forcibly evicted by the Confederation from Ancient Atlantis. The decision was long overdue, a move that should have been done a long time ago but there was no compounding reason and the evidences only showed up later. But the decision was not easily done, as there were many compounding complications before it was finally handed down.

The Great City of Azure or the Great Azure Empire was one of the original founding cities of Ancient Atlantis. In the early days, they were called the City of Azure – the land of the Proud! From the very beginning, the Azure Empire had a different notion of their co-existence with the other cities. In their minds, they had the feeling of “superiority”: far and better skills than the others and intellectually superior. They had the “Messiah” complex! The Hooded Blue Thugs were a proud race with rich history of Excellence.

At a very young age, they were taught to be proud of their heritage, culture and tradition, but they turned out to become arrogant and apathetic.

They were also very competitive team and had the most number of wins in the Power Brawl Series until they were evicted from the island. But unknown to the other cities, the Azure Empire won these titles through deceptions and lies. Aside from the superior strength of the Hooded Blue Thugs, they were also very wicked, deceptive and dirty players. They never played on equal footing with the other teams, even to the point of manipulating the game, bribing the other team and starting a “staged” violent fight whenever they were losing. Such shenanigans were unnoticed for many, many years until they were caught twenty-five years ago.

During that year, the Azure Empire was a serious contender for the Power Brawl Series. But a win by the Gentle Green Land would make life more difficult. The Gentle Green Land should lose the match against the Camelot Yard! Although the odds favored the Green Knights, the Azure Empire had an evil plan. The Azure Empire coerced the officials to favor the Camelot Yard by blackmailing and terrorizing the families of the helpless officials. And as an assurance, a group of Hooded Blue Thugs went to the game, disguising as Benevolent Greens, to initiate a free-for-all wrangle in case the Camelot Yard still fail to win.

But an honest official could no longer stomach the evil deeds of the Azure Empire and exposed the malevolent plot of the Hooded Blue Thugs. In order not to put in danger the family of the officials - the Council of Elders of Ancient Atlantis (without the representative of the Azure Empire) decided to let the game to push through. They wanted the Hooded Blue Thugs perpetuate the crime and identify the culprits on the spot.

The crucial battle between the Gentle Green Land and the Camelot Yard took place as scheduled. But the Green Knights were the more solid team and victory was only two minutes away. At the same time, the camouflaging Hooded Blue Thugs knew that the Camelot Yard was about to lose the game and the “assurance act” was needed. The Hooded Blue Thugs put out their weapons: broken bottles, metal screws and nails, stones, rocks and Molotov bombs. They threw the unwanted foreign objects to the side of the supporters of the Camelot Yard. Chaos was all over the place as the Pages & Squires thought it was provoked by the Benevolent Greens and retaliated. Before things became uncontrollable, squadrons of the dreaded Storm Troopers of Atlantis surrounded the Risk-All Memorial Coliseum. Armed with high-powered weaponry, the rioting crowd stopped and stood still with awed fear and anxiety. All the doors of Risk-All Coliseum were closed and padlocked. The rowdy crowd was trapped inside and the Council of Elders emerged.

Unknown to the spectators inside, the Council of Elders were secretly watching and observing them and the secret Storm Troopers were position all over the place. Some were in plain clothes mingling with the crowds. In a swift and fleeting stroke, the Storm Troopers rounded up the Hooded Blue Hooligans. They knew who the perpetrators were even in a sea of faces inside the hall. The captured Hooded Blue Hooligans were segregated from the crowd for an interrogation that would reveal so many secrets.

The Storm Troopers were known for their vicious and tough interrogation process – no one escapes the method of the Storm Troopers. Within a few hours, the Hooded Blue Thugs one by one cracked up and the great revelation was made. The disclosure brought the Azure Empire in big, big trouble. The Storm Troopers knew already that the Azure Empire was behind the heinous crime and other crimes in the past. The litany of crimes perpetuated by the Azure Empire went back as far as 30 years ago. They raided the homes of these Hooded Blue Thugs and located evidences that would nail the Azure Empire for the crimes against HUMANITY!

The crimes that the Azure Empire committed were the following:

- Conspiracy to defraud and misled authorities on a riot that occurred 30 years ago. The Azure Empire accused then the Gentle Green Land for placing DEAD CHICKENS on the Gates of the Azure Empire. The confession of the Hooded Blue Thugs and the evidences gathered proved that it was the own doing of the Azure Empire to gain public sympathy.

- Falsification of publicly submitted documents. The Azure Empire forged the documentation for their players 10 years ago. It was known that the players fielded by the Azure Empire had fake documents and they were not true residents of the Azure Empire. These players made the Azure Empire win the Power Brawl Series that year. But a year later, these players suddenly vanished and were no longer part of the Azure Empire.

- Serious coercion, grave threat and bribery of public officials.

- Blackmail and federal felony.

- Acts of Rebellion and TREASON for initiating and instigating anarchy and chaos all over Atlantis for a period of 30 years.

- Economic Saboteur for the loss of generated income to Ancient Atlantis.

- And the last crime that nailed the final coffin to the Azure Empire was… Acts of Evilness against Humanity and common Good!

As not to give any hint on the seriousness of the crimes against the Azure Empire, the captured Hooded Blue Thugs were detained for the remaining days of the Power Brawl Series. Even the formal notification and report to the Council of Elders were delayed until the Power Brawl Series was over.

As a result of the riot that disturbed the game between the Gentle Green Land and Camelot Yard, the game was replayed but it was held on closed-door game – only the teams and officials were inside. And it the replay, the Camelot Yard was the more focused and won the game. The evil plan of the Azure Empire succeeded and they made it to the finals of the Power Brawl Series against the City of Sphinx.

The finals of the Power Brawl Series between the Azure Empire and the City of Sphinx were marred by violent scuffles that led to numerous dispersals, injuries and destruction of public properties. In the end, it was the Azure Empire who won the Power Brawl Series. But amidst the victory, it was the end for the evils of the Azure Empire.

When the Power Brawl Series ended, the Storm Troopers handed down the result of their investigation to the Council of Elders. The Azure Empire had no idea that they were under surveillance and investigation for the past few days. When the Council of Elders fully digested the contents of the report, they were overwhelmed with the evidences to support the crimes committed by the Azure Empire. They had no other choice but to implement the harshest punishment for the sake of Atlantis. With a unanimous vote of all the members of the confederation, the head of the Council of Elders read the judgment:

“For Crimes of evil proportion, inconceivable despicable acts and absolute betrayal of the Code of Conduct of Ancient Atlantis and Humanity, We, the Council of Elders of the National Confederation of Ancient Atlantis, do hereby ordered the City of Azure to leave Ancient Atlantis immediately. The citizens of the City of Azure are no longer recognized and worthy to become a part of Ancient Atlantis. The physical properties within the City of Azure are to be destroyed and nothing will be left to remember that before there was a city of Azure in that site. Effective today, the City of Azure is gone. It’s people are wanderers and given 3 days to get out of the island for good. Failure to comply with the order of the Council would result to drastic action never been done in the history of Ancient Atlantis. This declaration is non-negotiable and non-appealable. SO HEREBY ORDERED, ENFORCED AND EXECUTED!”

The strong and totally unexpected decision was unprecedented in the history of Ancient Atlantis. The Azure Empire was the first city to be declared a pariah city and its inhabitants as persona non-grata!

The Azure Empire got hold of the order but they were still unrepentant, defiant and proud! Before they left the island to a journey to the unknown, they rendered the final evil deed as a lasting legacy to Ancient Atlantis.

The Azure Empire’s departure was fast and swift. To the bewilderment of everybody, the Azure Empire was calm and peaceful. Even the Hooded Blue Thugs did not say a word about their eviction. The pundits thought it was an act of submissiveness – an unlikely act of the proud race. They even volunteered to do the burning of their city, a move that they fulfilled without hesitation and further surprised the inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis.

Black smoke and filthy soot ascended all over Ancient Atlantis because of the raging fire brought by the burning Azure City. For several days, the sun did not shine as it was covered by seethes … until the rain came.

What the inhabitants did not know, the black smoke from the burning Azure Empire was laced with evil spells – the CURSE OF HATRED!

As the rains poured all over Ancient Atlantis, majority of the inhabitants pampered themselves with the comfort of bathing in the rain - the combined darkness and swelling heat in the island induced them to do so. Only the Benevolent Greens did not indulge cleansing in the rain as the giant trees surrounding the city had ingested the rain even before it touches the ground. But little did they know of the bad effects of the rains mixed with smoke from the City of Azure. The Curse of Hatred had entered the bodies of the majority in the Ancient Atlantis.

Since that time, hatred filled the minds of most inhabitants in Ancient Atlantis. As a result, continuous violent outrage and never ending riots occurred all over the island… and it became rowdier and wilder.

Slowly, Atlantis was dying from the endless anarchy that became a familiar ugly sight. Even the Storm Troopers were helpless in containing the massive and ever growing discontent in the island. Even the mild mannered cities that had no history of violent tendencies in the past were acting strangely and were openly advocating lawlessness in the island.

The Curse of Hatred was now deeply imbibed in the system of the inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis. Even the Gentle Green Land did not escape the sting of the curse as the hoodlums now all over the island were continuously assaulting them.

The Power Brawl Series was a total mess. The game turned into a real brawl as both the teams and the supporters were constantly engaged in fistfights. Numerous games were cancelled because of the melee and most games were held closed doors. Just like a plague that had spread all over the island, it was an irreversible process with no viable solution insight.

After two years, the Gentle Green Land persevered with the hope that things would turn around in the island. But as days went by, situations became more troubled and hopelessness was a foregone conclusion. The Gentle Green Land had no other choice but to seek answer in the Mystic Land of Leumeria.

Leumeria and the Gate to the other Dimension

Brother Hun Drew, the Chief head of the Gentle Green Land decided to embark on a secret trip to Leumeria. The Land of Leumeria was the mystical land of the occult and paranormal. A magical and enchanting land where the wizards, sorcerers, witch, warlocks, seers, clairvoyants and even charlatans reside. Brother Hun Drew needed to seek guidance from the legendary Wizard Marlin – the most powerful wizard of Early Earth. Marlin was once an advisor of King Arthur but now resides in the Castle of Avalon at Leumeria. Brother Hun Drew wanted to know how to stop the culture of violence in Ancient Atlantis.

Wizard Marlin told Bro. Hun Drew that it was an irreversible illness with no cure available on this side of the universe. The only cure to heal the hatred now plaguing Ancient Atlantis was with the Azure Empire. The only way was to follow the Azure Empire to the parallel universe of the Continent of the Ring.

“Follow you must do but not enough. Even if you and your people reach the Continent of the Ring, there is no guarantee that your people are welcomed. Once you are there, seek for Master Yoga and he will guide you to the right path of acceptance in the Continent of the Ring.”

“Once accepted, your task has just started! For the curse to be broken, your people must meet the Azure Empire in a battle. The Battle of Supreme Battles! It is a battle far tougher than the Power Brawl Series in our universe. It is the Battle of the DAYS OF THE BLINDED TRUTH. Beware of the kingdoms in the Continent of the Ring as they were of immortal attributes – several times stronger and tougher than the best of Ancient Atlantis!

But even you meet the Azure Empire in the finals of the Days of the Blinded Truth; another supreme test is in the offing. YOU MUST ALLOW THE AZURE EMPIRE TO WIN THE BATTLE – AN ACT OF SUPREME HUMILITY! Only then you will break the Curse of Hatred… only through humility. Although the curse is broken, it is not gone!

To completely eradicate the Curse of Hatred and never to return, on the following year, your people should win the RING OF SUPREMACY! Only the combined powers of the Ring of Supremacy could completely eradicate the Curse of Hatred and send it back to the Azure Empire.

It is indeed a difficult undertaking and there is no turning back. If your people decide to go through with the challenge, there is no returning to our universe or to Ancient Atlantis. You will forever be trapped in the Continent of the Ring. The Benevolent Greens are gone forever!

But before you decide, there is one condition that I have not told you. …. THE STRONGEST AND MIGHTIEST OF YOUR KIND SHOULD STAY AT ANCIENT ATLANTIS!

…. THE STRONGEST GREEN KNIGHTS CANNOT JOIN THE JOURNEY TO THE OTHER DIMENSION.

…. THE FIERCEST GREEN KNIGHTS ARE TO GUARD THE SEAL OF YOUR CITY – THE BLAZING GREEN TORCH!

The Blazing Green Torch is the living marker for your journey. It is through the Blazing Green Torch that the people of Atlantis will know the fate of the island.

Once it blazes HIGH & BRIGHT with a shade of GREEN & WHITE…. Then you have fulfilled your mission.

Ten years after you have fulfilled your mission, those you have left behind can rejoin the confederation of Ancient Atlantis. But there is no guarantee how long it would take for you to fulfill the task. Maybe, a year or two, ten years…. a century… or maybe never.

If you and your people are strong enough to take the challenge, come back in one month and I will open the gateway to the other universe. If the time comes and you are still not here, it only means that you are not yet up to the task.

You are not the only one who sought my advice. You are the last among the confederation cities. They never returned.

… The Gentle Green Land is Ancient Atlantis last hope!!!”

And Merlin disappeared.

Brother Hun Drew knew that they had no choice but to accept the supreme challenge for the sake of Ancient Atlantis.

Back from Leumeria, Brother Hun Drew asked for an emergency session of the Council of Elders. Even before he could say a word, the Head of the Council spoke and gave Bro. Hun Drew the blessing to leave Atlantis. They knew that the Gentle Green Land would take the challenge. They recognized the importance of the task as spoken by Wizard Marlin.

The Council of Elders promised Bro. Hun Drew that the descendants of the Gentle Green Land would be re-accepted to the confederation if and when the time they succeeded with the “Holy Crusade”. Ten years after they have earned the Ring of Supremacy.

Bro. Hun Drew told the Council of Elders that they would leave Ancient Atlantis in a month’s time.

THE DEPARTURE

Bro. Hun Drew informed the Benevolent Greens of their departure in a crusade journey to a parallel universe to seek the remedy for the curse plaguing Ancient Atlantis. And he told them that some needed to stay in Ancient Atlantis for a very special mission. But Bro. Hun Drew did not tell yet the identities of these Benevolent Greens.

A day before leaving, Bro. Hun Drew called the Legion of the Green Templars. It was the day of sorrow and pride for the Green Templars.

Bro. Hun Drew had no idea how to break the news. But he managed to put his act together… and spoke:

“ As you all know, tomorrow is an important day. We leave Ancient Atlantis for a very special journey – the Crusade to bring back the old glory of Ancient Atlantis! Our journey is not only a task with unknown probability of success, it is also a challenge that will need all what we have and all of our goodness from inside. It is not for our own goodness or glorification, but for a greater cause – to save our beloved Ancient Atlantis from further sinking in the decays of the Azure Empire’s curse.

I need the help of each and everyone. And the greatest help and sacrifice will be coming from your LEGION! Although the task is daunting, the Legion of the Green Templars is GOING TO STAY in Ancient Atlantis!”

There was silence as they were caught unaware. Until the Head of the Green Templars spoke:

“My Lord, We, as the Vanguard and Protector of the Gentle Green Land, feel our service is most needed in the journey. Who is going to protect the Benevolent Greens from the dangers awaiting in the other dimension?”

Bro. Hun Drew spoke again:

“Much to my regret and much to the protection needed by us in the journey, your service and help is most needed in Ancient Atlantis. Your Legion has a very crucial role for staying in Atlantis.”

“By the tune we depart the island, we will be leaving the seal of our city – the Blazing Green Torch – for you to protect. Guard it with all of your life. Let no one tamper, vandalize or even steal the Blazing Green Torch. It is the key to Ancient Atlantis’ salvation. The future of Ancient Atlantis depends on the signs that will happen to the Blazing Green Torch.”

“Legion of the Green Templars, the task is not easy as it looks like. The Curse of Hatred has affected most of the inhabitants in the island and you will encounter difficulties and challenges far beyond what you have tasted before. Be strong, forthright and courageous in defending the Blazing Green Torch. The Benevolent Greens and the people of Ancient Atlantis are depending on your heroism and bravery.”

“The Blazing Green Torch will play a vital role in our journey. As it is always lighted, if we succeed in our mission, the Blazing Green Torch will blaze in full glory. A ray of Green and White light will beam upward surrounding all of Atlantis. It is the sign that we fulfill our mission. A sign that the curse in Atlantis is gone forever. A sign that the Green Templars and your families can start all over again and rejoin the confederation of the 10th year after we completed our mission.”

“We are leaving with a heavy heart. We will not be able to return, but we will always remember your heroism and dedication for the sake of Atlantis. Although we are going to be apart, you are forever with us. ONCE A BENEVOLENT GREEN, ALWAYS A BENEVOLENT GREEN!!!”

“I know you will never fail us as we will never fail you!!!”

“Say your last goodbye not to all of your friends. You and your family are the true heroes of this mission”

Like a true GREEN TEMPLAR, the Legion of the Green Templars obeyed the decision without question. As they left, Bro. Hun Drew was proud with the FINEST KNIGHT OF THE GENTLE GREEN LAND!

On that faithful day, the Benevolent Greens departed from Ancient Atlantis with five vessels sailing to the Coast of Leumeria.

Wizard Marlin was waiting for them in the center of the ocean. As the vessels arrived, Wizard Marlin waved his magic wand and the gateway to the parallel universe opened in the middle of the vast ocean. It was a white hole with shimmering light and the gateway with no return. As the vessels passed, it disappeared… one by one; the five vessels carrying the Benevolent Greens vanished. And that was the last time that they saw the Benevolent Greens.

THE GREEN TEMPLAR SAGA

The day the Benevolent Greens left the Island of Ancient Atlantis, the Great Green Hills was an abandoned place – all silent and in deep mourning. Only the Green Templars and their families were left behind. Even though the Green Templars were in deep pain, they still continued with the task assigned to them – to protect the Blazing Green Torch.

The Legion of the Green Templars was the highest order of Knighthood in the Order of the Green Emblem. They were the strongest and mightiest of all Green Knights. They were knights of distinguish credentials and distinctions. Not all Green Knights were accepted to the legion – only the best of the Green Knights with exceptional skill and talent were asked to join the legion. They were the special unit of the Green Knights – even higher to the Green Knights joining the Power Brawl Series. They were the ultimate defenders and protectors of the Benevolent Greens – the fiercest and toughest of the Benevolent Greens!

As the Green Templars of the Green Emblem, they took the vows of Obedience, Humility and chastity. They were the most loyal of the Green Knights as they obey without question and complain. They were paragons of humility for all Benevolent Greens to emulate. And the Green Templars complied with the vow of chastity. The life of a Green Templar is for the service of the Benevolent Greens. And their dedication is to the Gentle Green Land. They were truly the “men for others”!

To the Benevolent Greens, they were called “THE PROUD AND THE MIGHTY GREEN TEMPLARS”. A distinction that was true and deserving accolade for the stature they long earned in the hearts of the Benevolent Greens.

The Green Templars had a colorful, legendary and historic anecdote. The travails of the Green Templars were of epic proportion never been duplicated by others. Many times they repelled the incursion and attacks of the Azure Empire. The Hooded Blue Thugs were notorious for their daring incursion into the Great Green Hills. They had the habit of vandalizing the place and creating troubles even inside the enclave of the Benevolent Greens. Armed with high-powered armaments, they would sneak into the lair of the Gentle Green Land to terrorize the inhabitants. The Green Templars would repel the attacks with precision and accuracy incomparable to none. In the history of the Green Templars, never did they fail with their mission – not a single casualty amongst the Benevolent Greens. They were the protectors of the highest distinction – a perfect record of service to the Gentle Green Land.

But the pinnacle of the Green Templars’ legendary exploit was when they saved a group of Benevolent Greens from the lynching mob inside the Azure Empire.

A group of Benevolent Greens was watching the exhibition game between the Hooded Blue Thugs and the Benevolent Greens inside the Azure Empire. The game was held as a pre-season game before the Power Brawl Series. Although it was only a warm-up game, the Hooded Blue Thugs played dirty and rough. The Eagle’s Hall was filled with Hooded Blue Thugs’ supporters and only a handful of Benevolent Greens or a ratio of 10:1. Even with the hostile game played by the Hooded Blue Thugs, they were no match with the Benevolent Greens. The Hooded Blue Thugs were badly beaten in the Power Brawl game. As the game ended, pleasantry was made and the Benevolent Green thought everything was alright. But the treacherous Hooded Blue Thugs had an evil intent. On the way out of the Azure Empire, a multitude of Hooded Blue Thugs were already waiting in an antagonistic demeanor. The Benevolent Greens were clearly outnumbered. They knew that they would not come out of the Azure Empire alive. With their lives in great peril, a distress signal was sent – an arrow flew and burst in the sky with dark green smoke. It was a sign that they were in extreme dangerous situation.

The Green Templars, numbering 50 waiting outside the Azure Empire, saw the signal and immediately barged inside the Azure Empire. There were around 500 Hooded Blue Thugs about to lynch to death the Benevolent Greens. The Green Templars swiftly encircled the beleaguered Benevolent Greens in a defensive “fortress” posture. It was a double-layered circle fortress with the Benevolent Greens inside and in the core was the Head Chief of the Green Templars. The Hooded Blue Thugs armed with all kinds of dangerous weapons attacked in their customary attack pattern – the Hit and Run style. They would try to hit the opponent and run before it could react or counter strike. One after the other, the Hooded Blue Thugs repeated the attack. But the Green Templars were familiar with the style of the Hooded Blue Thugs and they knew how to counter-act such move. All over Ancient Atlantis, this patented style of the Hooded Blue Thugs was known as the “TRAITOR’S MOVE!”

The Green Templars armed only with their stealth arrows knew how to repel the attack. They tied the stealth arrows with titanium string and swirled the. The move created a solid shield on two layers. At the core of the circle, the Head Chief Green Templar swirled his arrow above like a rotating giant umbrella. The Circle Fortress defense simply repelled all the attacks by the Hooded Blue Thugs. All the materials thrown simply bounce back to them. The Hooded Blue Thugs could not get near the circle and were powerless with the defense made by the Green Templars. They slowly move out towards the Azure Empire’s gate.

The Green Templars were able to rescue the Benevolent Greens from the brink of death. Once the Benevolent Greens were safe outside, the Green Templars formed one solid rank formation and added a smoke bomb on the tip of their stealth arrows. The Green Templars targeted the mob inside the Azure Empire and hit them. The arrows with smoke bombs exploded into the midst of the mob. The Hooded Blue Thugs ran for cover like headless chickens on the loose. The Green Templars once again repelled the evil plot of the Hooded Blue Thugs.

The gallantry of the Green Templars as the faithful defenders of the Benevolent Greens quickly spread all over Ancient Atlantis and they became a legend. Even with their growing fame, the Green Templars remained true to their nature: reclusive and humble. They did not cherish the newfound stature and kept a low profile away from the eyes of those who wanted to fete them.

All of these were before. The Green Templars were now on their own. The Benevolent Greens no longer around…. only the Great Green Hills and the Blazing Green Torch were the memento left behind – a reminder that they were Benevolent Greens once and forever.

THE WANDERING YEARS

It was already six years since the Benevolent Greens left Ancient Atlantis but there was no sign yet that they reach the other universe. The Blazing Green Torch was still lighted but no blazing flame – no sign that the Benevolent Greens accomplish the mission.

For six years now, the Great Green Hills was still blistering in splendid beauty. The Green Templars were excellent administrators of the city. They were able to keep the city just like before – a sight of delight! But amidst the beauty of the Great Green Hills, it was already a pariah city. For six years now, they were incommunicado with the other cities. The Green Templars were nomads and outcasts in the island of Ancient Atlantis.

Violence in Ancient Atlantis was already a familiar sight. The island of Ancient Atlantis was totally absorbed by hatred. Although the Power Brawl Series was still an annual event, there was no more prestige and pride in the event. Ancient Atlantis was a dead island with its neck buried deep in social problems – there was no more future. Hatred, Anger and Fear were the prevailing traits of the inhabitants. Ancient Atlantis was an absolute wasteland of stagnating cities.

The Green Templars were isolated in the Great Green Hills for six years now. A few months after the Benevolent Greens left the island; there were several instances of attacks into the city. The rowdy hooligans from different cities tried to ransack the wealth left behind and steal the Blazing Green Torch. Evilness totally engulfed the inhabitants. The Green Templars had no other choice but to built a wall surrounding the city. A 20-foot high wall was built all over the Great Green Hills – like a fortress fortified! Day and night, the Green Templars and their families erected the wall that took them three long years to finished. When it was completed, the Great Green Hills became the citadel of the Blazing Green Torch that would lead to the total isolation of the Green Templars from the outside world for a very long time.

Still, the attempted intrusion by the inhabitants of the other cities continued. But this time, the task of the Green Templars became easier. From the four towers erected at the top of the four corners of the wall, they could see if there was a forthcoming attack. Throughout the years, the Green Templars remained vigilant in guarding the Blazing Green Torch and hopeful for the success of the Benevolent Greens…. Someday.

But a flicker of hope came six years and seven months later.

One night in the Great Green Hills as four Green Templars were guarding the Blazing Green Torch, the small flame started to burst with a sudden blaze of yellow flame. The Blazing Green Torch was glowing in bright yellow – the first sign that the Benevolent Greens reached the Continent of the Ring and the Gentle Green Land was accepted in the federation.

For the rest of the year, the Blazing Green Torch had a yellow flame – the symbol of Hope. The Green Templars were thankful that their brothers were safe in another dimension. And they also knew that there were still more trials before total success.

On the following year and another more, the Blazing Green Torch was bursting in flames of red. It was another sign that the fight and struggle of the Benevolent Greens were still in progress. The Green Templars had no idea until when the flames would remain red. It could take a year or two or even longer. Even though they were eagerly waiting for the faithful day, they had no other choice but to wait. Patience was a virtue that the Green Templars always had – even if they have to wait forever.

And came the third great sign.

On the eight year of the Green Templars' isolation, the Blazing Green Torch flaming in red suddenly changed color! The red flame was suddenly fading and fading until it turned into the [VB]majestic blue sky[/B]. A burst of blazing blue flame shoot upward across the sky glowing bigger and bigger until the blaze of illuminating blue flame was all over Ancient Atlantis. It was a significant sign that the Benevolent Greens finally met the Hooded Blue Thugs in the finals of the Days of the Blinded Truth. The Curse of Hatred left by the Azure Empire was reversed. The inhabitants of Ancient Atlantis were now cured of the curse. But it was not yet gone.

The Benevolent Greens should let the Hooded Blue Thugs win the battle – an act of submissiveness and supreme humility. But on the following year, they should win the Ring of Supremacy or the Curse of Hatred would return.

The Green Templars knew that this was the most critical stage of the mission. If the Benevolent Greens failed to win the Ring of Supremacy the following year, catastrophe bigger than what plagued before would befell to Ancient Atlantis. The Green Templars prayed and prayed for the whole year for the success of the Benevolent Greens. That was the only thing they could do to help their brothers on an almost impossible mission.

Until one night on the faithful day in Ancient Atlantis – Nine years and ten months later.

On that glorious day and without any notice, the Blazing Green Torch blazed in full glory of GREEN and WHITE! A beam of glowing Green and White erupted all over the Great Green Hills, all over the island of Ancient Atlantis and all over the planet of Early Earth!

The Benevolent Greens succeeded in wiping out the Curse of Hatred. Ancient Atlantis was now cured! The inhabitants of the island were freed from the malady troubling them for over a decade. It was a joyful day for the entire humanity.

As the Green and White light of beams covered the planet, it suddenly became smaller and smaller until it formed a single beam that traveled into space and gone. The Curse of Hatred was gone together with the beams of Green and White – back to the Azure Empire.

THE CITY OF BLAZE

The Council of Elders first official pronouncement was the re-confirmation of the Benevolent Greens’ acceptance to the confederation of Ancient Atlantis within 10 years. To honor the Green Templars, the Council of Elders decided to re-accept them on the 9th year – a year ahead of the promised rejoining. The Green Templars had 9 nine years to prepare and to become the newest city of the confederation.

The Green Templars’ first priority was to tore down the “Wall of Isolation”. The island of Ancient Atlantis was already free from the Curse of Hatred. Peace was once again achieved in this island and the angst of the inflicted inhabitants subsided into a manageable tolerance. Isolation of the Green Templars to the outside world was no longer necessary. It was the time to communicate and join the other cities of the island into one united and solid confederation of Ancient Atlantis.

The Green Templars were already past their primes and it was the time for the next generation of Green Templars to continue the rich tradition of their fathers. The original or “older” Green Templars decided to acquire a new identity for the new generations. For them the City of the Gentle Green Land and the name Benevolent Greens were sacred and now part of their fabled history. They believed that they were not worthy enough to be called with such distinction. From now on, the city that was once the Gentle Green Land became the BLAZING GREEN METROPOLIS or the CITY OF BLAZE. And the inhabitants were to be known as the BENIGN GREENS. Also, the Legion of the Green Templars would seize to them only and the new generations were called THE TEMPLARS OF THE GREEN BLAZE.

For eight years, the Benign Greens dedicated themselves to gain new knowledge for the growth and development of the Blazing Green Metropolis. The new generations of Benign Greens were deeply involved in the pursuit of Human Development, Social Sciences and Behavioral Studies. The concentration on these fields of humanity was the results of the social turmoil that transpired in Ancient Atlantis. They would like to help Ancient Atlantis not to repeat the same mistake before. The Benign Greens were motivated by their unselfish deeds to contribute a new social order in Ancient Atlantis by the time they would rejoin the confederation. This was a testament to the maturity and well roundedness of the Benign Greens – a trait that they were indeed the descendants of the Benevolent Greens!

At the same time, the Benign Greens formed the core of their team for the Power Brawl Series. The Benign Greens called the team as the BLAZING TEMPLARS. It was an acknowledgement of the special role played by the Blazing Green Torch and the Legion of Green Templars to the development of their identity. The Blazing Templars were composed of young men with no background or experience what the Power Brawl Series was all about. They were totally naïve of the rules and importance of the game to the whole Ancient Atlantis. They never had an idea that the Power Brawl Series was the life and soul of Ancient Atlantis before. It was the center stone where everything revolves around it in Ancient Atlantis. The Blazing Templars were considered lightweights in the Power Brawl Series.

On the 9th year, the Blazing Green Metropolis rejoined the Confederation of Ancient Atlantis. They became the youngest and eight city of the island. The confederation was now made up of eight cities.

There was great celebration in the Blazing Green Metropolis as dignitaries from the seven other cities arrived. In the Great Green Hills of the City of Blaze, the Council of Elders formally bestowed the proclamation declaring the acceptance of the Blazing Green Metropolis as the newest member of the confederation. The Benign Greens were enthusiastic with their new status – they were no longer nomads in Ancient Atlantis. The Council of Elders was toured inside the city and they made a special homage to the Shrine of the Blazing Green Torch. Before they left, the Council of Elders told the Benign Green to prepare for the Power Brawl Series, which would culminate in two months – a new and revitalized Power Brawl Series!

Ancient Atlantis was a complete island with a bright future ahead. The island was peaceful again and there was no more anarchy, hooliganism and violent crimes in the island. The new generation of inhabitants was generally peace loving citizens and God fearing. Hatred was a thing of the past – a past that blemished the reputation of the whole island. The time of senseless violence was now a part of history and the new Ancient Atlantis was looking forward to a new beginning.

THE REVITALIZED POWER BRAWL SERIES

After a long time, the Power Brawl Series had eight competing cities for the Beacon of Ancient Atlantis. For the last twenty years, they only had six or seven cities for the competition. The City of Marina made it seven when it was accepted three years before the Green Templars. The acceptance of the Blazing Templars made it an eight competing teams.

And during those years, one team became a dominant force in the Power Brawl Series – The CENTAUR BASTION. In the last decade alone, the Centaur Bastion had a five-year winning streak. Year after year, they remained a serious contender for the Power Brawl Series. The Cardinal Lane also had their share of glory. Same with the Camelot Yard. But the City of Sphinx became a stagnant city that their last win was more than twenty years ago.

The entry of the Blazing Templars was expected but they were not seriously being considered as a threat to the Beacon of Atlantis. To the Power Brawl Pundits, it would take quite some time before they could become a real competitive and powerful force. But the Benign Greens had another plan in mind – soon enough they would become the Champion of the Power Brawl Series in an unprecedented fashion.

On the first year of the Blazing Templars, the expectations of the pundits became true. Being new to this rugged and physically demanding game, the Blazing Templars were simply overplayed and out hustled by the opponents. Although the Blazing Templars studied and practiced the rudiments of the game, they had no actual experience playing the game, which to many was the most significant factor. Many saw a great potential with the Blazing Templars style of play – very Benevolent Green’s power play – but they had no cohesive team play in the game and just pure raw talents.

On the second year, the Blazing Templars were more focused and defense oriented. They had good coordination with each other, a lot tougher and at ease with the plays during the game. The Blazing Templars matured easily and they made some inroads by winning some games. But in the end, they were still a learning, young team.

The Blazing Templars third season created the biggest feat in the history of the Power Brawl Series. The Blazing Templars started the campaign on a sluggish note and just like last year, they were expected to go the same way. Then miracle happened. The Blazing Templars started to win. One win after the other until all of sudden they were contender for the final four of the Power Brawl Series. Just like a true underdog all the way, the Blazing Templars unleashed the inner strength of a true descendant of the Benevolent Green and demolished all enemies to win the BEACON of Atlantis in THREE years after joining the confederation and the game!

Although the win was unexpected, the Benign Greens earned the respect of the other cities from thereon. Now, the Blazing Templars were no longer pushover or just a minor threat in the Power Brawl Series. The other teams knew that they have witnessed the arrival of a new force in the Power Brawl Series. For the first time, the Green Templars went home to a jubilant Benign Greens with the Beacon of Atlantis.

The following year, the Blazing Templars had a depleted line-up. Although they were the defending champion, they were not expected to be a major threat this time. The Titan City was the favored team with an almost same line-up as before and more mature with their games. But the Blazing Templars still managed to earn a spot in the final four only to be beaten by the Stags. In the end, the Centaur Bastion took home the Beacon of Atlantis.

And now, the Blazing Templars wanted to prove that their win two years ago was no fluke. The crusading Blazing Templars are embarking on a new mission – to completely dominate the Power Brawl Series. And with a good start, only time will tell if the Blazing Templars’, the sons of the Green Templars and descendants of the Benevolent Greens, dream is bound to succeed. Fate knows what lies ahead but there is no doubt that the Blazing Templars are up to the challenge.

And this is just the beginning of the Templars’ saga….

WE ARE LA SALLE!!!

FIGHT FOR FIVE!!!!!

ANIMO LA SALLE!!!