Chapter 1
The Defection
Tepet Andrani replaced the ink-stained quill in its lacquered box and gave a deep sigh as he massaged his temples. He had just penned a response to his brother in Lord’s Crossing, but was still reeling from the news he’d received. House Tepet’s legions had been decimated on their campaign in the north, and that left his family in dire straights. Tepet had always been the most powerful of the Realm’s twelve noble houses. Militarily at least. They’d dispatched five legions to deal with an Anathema. The fallen god and his followers, his brother wrote, had brushed aside those legions like so many leaves in a stiff wind. Even the mighty Dragon-Blooded leading those legions had fallen before the cursed Solar.
Worse, House Cathak had recently agreed to ‘sponsor’ the Eleventh legion. His legion. Might as well call it what it was and just admit they were buying the legion outright. Such an act would never have been allowed if the Empress, bless her name, were around to prevent it. But she was not and with Tepet’s legions gone no one was strong enough to prevent Cathak from doing whatever they liked. Word had already reached him from other legions that Tepet officers were being replaced by those loyal to their greatest rival. House Cathak had always been in close competition with House Tepet, and over his nearly two centuries of life Andrani had managed to anger more than a few of their ranking dynasts. Whether they would take action against him was not the question. The question was how and when.
Andrani poured himself a cup of honeyed wine from the crystal ewer, and mulled over better times. By all appearances he was still a man in his youth. His broad shoulders and serious countenance were that of a man nearing his thirtieth birthday, but never had all his years worn so heavily on him. Nor was he oblivious to the streaks of gray that shot through his jet-black hair. In his hundred and eighty years he had seen many battles, and always the fortunes of the Realm had prospered. The mighty Dragon-Blooded had led the legions of the Realm to victory after victory until only the very edges of creation lay outside their benevolent rule.
He almost regretted living to see the chaos surrounding the disappearance of the Empress. The once mighty Realm now seemed determined to squabble away its vast power in petty struggles between noble houses. Andrani still nursed the hope that their beloved monarch would return, but it had been nearly five years without word from her. If she didn’t return soon it was quite possible that there would not be much of an empire left to return to.
More and more he questioned his role in things. Should he stay and serve this corrupt abomination of a government, or should he retire into quiet obscurity? There lay his dilemma. He could not sit by and idly watch as his nation ripped itself apart, and yet there was little he could do to prevent it. His more politically oriented family members may have had more luck effecting change, but after the disastrous loss of their legions they would be lucky to keep their house alive. The other houses would rally around Cathak like jackals ready to pull down an aging lion.
While the Realm tore itself apart the Anathema that they’d sworn to destroy were slowly beginning to reappear. Fewer and fewer nobles joined the wyld hunt that had been created to hunt down the Solar Exalted, and more and more of the demigods were escaping to the wilderness outside of Realm control. The longer those cursed brutes were allowed to live the more powerful they’d become until even the Realm might not be able to stop them.
His reverie was interrupted by a knock on the thick oaken door to his office. Who would be bothering him at this late hour?
“Come in,” he barked, more sharply than he intended. The door opened slowly and one of his slaves entered. He recognized the dark haired young man, but for the life of him Andrani could not remember his name.
“My Lord, I apologize for disturbing you. Another missive has arrived,” the slave spoke with proper deference, and was careful to keep his gaze lowered.
“From who?”
“General Tarkene, my lord.”
“Leave it and go,” Andrani replied casually, although he was more than a little concerned. It wouldn’t do to let the slaves know that, though. He had no doubt that at least one was a spy. He waited until the man was gone before cracking the Cathak seal on the letter. He scanned its contents quickly, and then crumpled the document in his fist. General Cathak Tarkene had been given command of the 11th a bare month ago, and already he was making trouble.
“Curse that bastard,” he swore under his breath. Tarkene had just called Major Ryokai back to the capital. Oh, he had done it in the guise of ‘recognition for service’ and had mentioned a ‘likely promotion’, but Andrani could read between the lines. Ryokai was loyal to house Tepet and that was reason enough, but Andrani had more in common with the man that mere blood. The mighty Dragon-Blooded, as the nobles of the empire were called, were each touched by one of five aspects. Both Andrani and Ryokai followed air as did many in House Tepet. The Cathaks leaned towards fire, and wanted neither Tepet officers nor Air Aspects cluttering the ranks of their newly bought legion.
Ryokai’s replacement was some arrogant pup fresh from the House of Bells. He had heard of this Shinjen, and knew enough to be worried. Only the best were allowed to attend the House of Bells, and only the best of the best graduated from it. That meant the boy at least had talent. However, he was also arrogant, hot headed and carried the total disdain for the mortal citizens of the empire that many Dragon-Blooded shared. Tarkene held the boy in high standing, and would no doubt be grooming him to take over Andrani’s position as Colonel. Tradition wouldn’t allow the general to promote the boy higher than the rank of Major, but he was sure that within a few months Tarkene would find a way to remove him. Shinjen would, of course, step into Andrani’s place.
The question was how were they planning to discredit him? Killing him would be too blatant even for Cathak, and with a service record as exemplary as his they couldn’t simply demote him. After Tepet’s legions had been crippled there was nowhere to transfer him to. The hammer would fall and it would fall soon. Of that he was sure. His days here were numbered, and there was likely little that he could do about it. Damn House Cathak.
* * * * *
Drevin hoped the figure he cut was impressive enough to match the rank he now wore. Shoulder length black hair had been pulled into a severe ponytail, and his well-muscled frame was covered by the scarlet mail that identified the 11th legion of the realm. He was taller than most of the men arrayed before him, and used that height to good effect. The newly minted Captain surveyed his troops with a critical eye, and found that he liked what he saw. The Talon was arrayed in twenty-five rows, each five men deep. They all stood at perfect attention, and not a one had so much as a spot on their crimson armor.
“Dismissed,” Drevin called sharply, his voice echoing across the courtyard. The men fell out in good order, and he felt a swell of pride as they flooded into the mess hall. He had been Captain for less than a month, but felt that he was rapidly adjusting to the challenge of commanding over a hundred men. Some of that was his own skill, but he had to admit that it helped that his troops already knew him. He had risen through the ranks of the Fifth Dragon in the Eleventh legion, and everyone here had fought beside him.
He had already climbed higher than most mortals could hope to, and had been shocked when Colonel Andrani promoted him after their last battle. Typically whenever an officer’s rank became vacant it was given to a Dragon-Blooded. Only when one of the Princes of the Earth was not available, or under extreme circumstances, would a mere mortal be promoted.
Putting his thoughts aside he walked briskly to the mess, and made his way to the officer’s table. Two of his lieutenants were already deep in discussion as he approached, and neither noticed him until he sat down. It was still odd thinking of them as ‘his lieutenants’. Bare weeks ago he had been one of them.
“…and I hear that General Tarkene replaced Major Ryokai with some Dynast just out of swaddling,” Emirile finished. She had come from a peasant family in the less civilized lands knows as the Threshold, and as such was shunned by her dynastic cousins despite being Dragon-Blooded herself. The feeling was definitely mutual.
“If so, then I hope Andrani keeps him on a tight leash.” grumbled Wes. The battle-scarred veteran was mortal, and made no secret of the fact that it bothered him to see inexperienced Dynasts given ranks due to their house. He was nearing forty, and had worked very hard to get where he was.
“He might not be all that bad,” Drevin spoke up, “If he comes from the House of Bells he has to know at least something about combat, and with some experience he may do fine.”
“Maybe,” conceded Wes, “I just hope that we don’t have to die just to get him some experience.”
“I’ll drink to that.” Emirile raised her glass then drained its contents. Her superior constitution meant that she could easily drink them both under the table, and they knew it. She was drinking hard spirits while Drevin nursed honeyed mead.
The blaring of a horn that they all recognized as a call to muster interrupted their meal. Quickly and efficiently the troops resumed their tight ranks in the courtyard. This time the other three Talons that made up Colonel Andrani’s dragon joined them. Drevin was pleased to note that his Talon was ready a full minute before any of the others. When all the troops were assembled the Colonel assumed his place on a large dais before the troops. He looked resplendent in his white jade armor, and the six-foot Grand Diaklaive strapped to his back added to his authority. No mortal could even lift the massive sword, and yet all of them had seen it strike like a viper when wielded by Andrani.
“I have news,” he boomed over the crowd, “Three days from now General Tarkene will be arriving for an inspection. He will be bringing with him replacements for several of the officer’s positions left vacant after our last foray,” Andrani paused for a moment before continuing.
“I know that you fought hard out there, and I have arranged for a full week’s leave before we head to our next post. Remember though, that I expect nothing less than perfection during the inspection. We will impress the General. Of course, being that the 5th Dragon is the best in the Eleventh Legion that goes without saying. Dismissed.”
A deafening cheer greeted his speech, and Drevin could not help but admire him. The Colonel was a veteran of literally hundreds of battles, and from what he knew the man had never lost. He only hoped that someday he would be would be half as respected.
* * * * *
Andrani’s heart was heavy as he exited the courtyard. The cheering went on for several minutes, but it faded into the distance as he walked back to the small manor that he had been given. These men trusted him absolutely, and they had no inkling that the Realm in which they trusted had fallen victim to greed and personal ambition.
He made his way up the walk to the front door where two slaves waited silently. He said nothing as they opened the door for him, and made his way to his sitting room. He poured himself a stiff drink, and took a seat on the open-air patio. After a few moments thought he rang a small bell that summoned a slave.
“Send a message to Ryokai. Tell him that I would like to speak with him.”
“At once my lord.” the slave replied with a bow. It was several minutes before he returned, this time with Andrani’s subordinate in tow. Ryokai wore a loose fitting blue robe tied simply about his waist, and his black hair was left loose to hang about his shoulders. Still, even in this garb the man’s steely blue gaze roamed the room like a predator and there was not an ounce of fat anywhere on the man.
“Thank you for coming, Major.”
“Of course old friend.” He stood with hands clasped behind his back obviously curious as to why he was summoned, but polite enough not to ask the questions that must be plaguing him.
“I fear for your safety,” the Colonel told him bluntly. He was too old to worry about the niceties of polite society, and besides Ryokai was a friend.
“Because I have been summoned back to the capital?”
“Precisely. I don’t believe that you’ll make it there alive.”
“Are you certain?” The slightly raised eyebrow was the only sign of Ryokai’s shock, “I mean, I expected to be transferred. But killing me outright? Cathak wouldn’t dare.”
“Oh yes they would. Fear of retribution will not save you, because Tepet is now a broken house.”
“Broken?” a look of horror spread across the Major’s features, “How? When?”
“The bulk of our legions were sent on a campaign to the north. They were decimated almost to a man.” Andrani explained matter of factly as Ryokai sank into a chair. His face had gone ashen, and his hands began to tremble. Andrani poured him a goblet of fire wine and pressed it into his hand before continuing.
“So you see, there is nothing to stop them from doing away with you. You will be attacked along the road, or poisoned, or perhaps even accused of treason. But the attack will come.”
“What about you? You cannot be safe either,” Ryokai asked. Some of the color came back to his face as he gulped greedily at the dark red liquid.
“I’m not. I am positive that they intend to do the same to me.”
“What will we do, then?”
“The unthinkable,” the Colonel explained grimly, “I plan to leave with those troops loyal to me, and to head into the Threshold.”
“Leave the Realm?” Ryokai asked in disbelief.
“It pains me too, but the Realm is not as we once knew it. The legions have become pawns for the great houses, and it is only a matter of time before we are pitted against each other.”
“You’re talking about a war for succession. Do you really think it’s possible? Even Mnemnon wouldn’t dare.”
“Absolutely,” Andrani replied sadly, “The Empress has been gone for five years. How long do you think that they’ll wait before someone steps forward to take her place?”
“I see.”
“Ryokai, I want you to go with me.”
“I thought as much. Who else have you told?” the Major replied as if he’d been asked the price of tea instead of to betray the Realm he’d fought so long for.
“You are the first. I wanted your support before approaching the other officers.”
“Should we talk to Major Yeruni?” Ryokai asked.
“No, he is more than willing to become a toady for House Cathak. We don’t dare trust him. Which captains do you trust?”
“Hmm,” the Major paused to think, “Allasandra and Drevin definitely. Possibly Marek.”
“If you aren’t sure I don’t want to take a risk. Talk to Allasandra and Drevin, and see if you can feel them out. If they are interested try to set up a meeting for tomorrow night. We only have three days before the general arrives, and I want to be on a ship headed off the blessed isle before that happens.” Andrani instructed.
“Alright. I’ll talk to them and get back to you when I know more,” Ryokai stood and left the patio.
Andrani knew that this was a risky move, but he didn’t see much choice. Many of his best officers would likely be killed or at the very least disgraced if they stayed. He loved the Realm, but he didn’t love what it was fast becoming. He would lead his troops into the Scavenger Lands, and they would carve themselves a little piece of it. If the day came when the Empress returned, then they would return home. The city that they had recently saved in the southeast would likely welcome them as protectors, and it was as good a place to start as any. Perhaps they could flee there.
* * * * *
Whisk. Whisk. Whisk. The sound of whetstone on blade reminded Drevin of combat, and with each stroke he remembered another battle. He’d survived far longer than most mortals in the legion, and had certainly risen far above his station. Of course that had as much to do with the Colonel’s patronage as his own skill. Why had the old man taken an interest in him, anyway?
Three sharp raps at the door to his small chamber brought him back to reality. Sliding the blade back into its sheath he set the sharpening stone on the small table next to his bed before rising to his feet.
“Come in,” he called. The door slid open quietly, and Major Ryokai slipped inside. He could tell by the look on his superior’s face that something was gravely amiss. Drevin immediately snapped to attention but the Major waved a hand dismissively and he relaxed.
“Good, you’re awake. Do you have a few minutes?”
“Of course, Major. What can I do for you, Sir?”
“You are a man of action over words, are you not?” Drevin wasn’t sure he understood the question, but he replied with a curt nod.
“Then I’ll dispense with the pleasantries. Do you know why the Colonel promoted you despite being a mortal?” Ryokai asked, his face obviously seeking something from Drevin.
“Honestly, no. I would have thought that Emirile would have been a better choice.” Drevin answered slowly. He wasn’t sure where the Major was going with this line of questioning, and he wasn’t sure he wanted to either. Was he about to find out what price he had to pay for his promotion?
“You are the finest mortal swordsman that I have ever seen, Drevin. You have demonstrated your ability to lead your scale time after time. But that’s not why the Colonel promoted you.”
“Then why?” Drevin asked.
“Because you are loyal. Loyal to your men. Loyal to your legion. Most importantly you are loyal to the Realm. But,” he continued gravely, “what if I was to tell you that the Realm is no longer loyal to itself?”
“I don’t understand, sir.”
“I don’t expect you to, yet. You have heard the rumors that I am being transferred out?”
“Yes sir, I have.”
“You also know that recently the Houses have assumed direct control of the many of the legions?”
“I had heard, sir. But what has that to do with me?” Drevin’s growing curiosity was evident.
“Give me a moment, and I will explain. I know that this isn’t easy to hear, but it must be said. The Realm is not the enlightened place that it once was. The Houses are beginning to enact plans that may lead to a civil war. Already they squabble over the succession.”
“It can’t be. Who would protect creation from the Wyld?”
“Truthfully, I don’t know. But Colonel Andrani has discovered that House Cathak is purging the officers of the 11th legion, and that anyone not loyal to them is to be killed or discredited.”
“Are you certain?” Drevin asked, truly dumbfounded. But he knew the answer already. Major Ryokai would not have come if it were not true. That meant both Ryokai and Andrani were in danger…and so was anyone associated with them. He’d be a target too like it or not.
“I’m certain. Drevin, can we count on your support to do what needs to be done?” Ryokai’s hard eyes met his own, and he knew that if he gave the wrong answer he would not live to see the dawn.
“You can count on me.”
“Good. We are meeting with the Colonel tomorrow night. Be there at seven, and tell no one.” the Major instructed. With that he rose and exited Drevin’s chambers leaving the captain alone with his thoughts.
Could Ryokai be telling the truth? Neither Andrani nor Ryokai had ever lied to him before, and they had always treated the men well. Drevin couldn’t think of anything that they stood to gain by lying. So it must be truth. Ok, but now what? What did the Colonel mean to do?
Drevin spent the next day in agony. He went through his tasks as normal, and did his best not to show the torment that plagued his mind. As Ryokai had asked he told no one, not even Emirile who he trusted implicitly.
When the time came at last Drevin was not even sure that he wanted to go. In the end duty won out, and he made his way up to the Colonel’s manor house. He was greeted at the door by one of the house slaves, and was escorted into the war room. He was surprised to see several other captains, and a few lieutenants as well. He recognized all of them, and knew more than a few personally. He spotted an empty chair near Emirile, and made for it.
“So they talked to you too?” she asked him without any of her usual cheerfulness. He simply nodded in response. He didn’t trust himself to speak.
“We are all here now,” Major Ryokai began, “I appreciate that you have all come despite not knowing exactly what it is that we intend to do. Before I go any further I will warn you, all of you are committed now. What we plan is treason and we’ll take steps to silence anyone not with us. Colonel?”
“A bit more melodramatic than I would have put it,” the Colonel chuckled, and the rest of the room joined in nervously. The whole room was a mixture of desperation and fear, yet under it all he detected a sense of determination.
“Still, there are grave matters to discuss. I have recently learned that the noble houses are purging the legions of all troops not loyal to their sponsor house. That means everyone in this room is at risk. Our very loyalty to the Realm has become a liability to House Cathak, and thus a threat to our safety. Worse, I believe this step to be in prelude to a possible struggle for the throne.
“I have called you here to tell you this, and to tell you what I intend to do about it. The Realm that I have served all of my life is no more, and it will not regain its former majesty unless our Empress returns. With this in mind I have decided to take those willing and head into the threshold.” He finished, waiting for his words to sink in.
The facial expressions throughout the room ranged from shock, to horror, to disbelief. But there was not a single protest.
“When do we leave, sir?” Drevin found himself asking. His question seemed to galvanize the others, and their fear and disbelief burned away leaving only resolve.
“Only the Major and I know the details, but it will be soon. What I need you to do is to have your troops ready to march at a moment’s notice. I also want you to keep an eye out for any spies of informers. One whiff of what we intend and the rest of the legion will turn on us without second thought.”
There was much more talk after that, but Drevin barely listened. Arguments aside the other officers supported the plan, and although no one liked it they would all follow the Colonel.
* * * * *
Cathak Shinjen, newly promoted to the rank of Major in the 5th Dragon of the 11th Legion, looked over the harbor of Arjuf. He made his way down the sturdy wooden dock to a massive ship flying the imperial standard. Today was the day he was scheduled to meet with his uncle Tarkene and several other prominent members of House Cathak.
Just last month he had graduated from the House of Bells, and had been first in his class. The school was the best in the world for learning the art of war, and he found it only proper that he assume command of an entire Wing in the 11th legion. If anything he was a little disappointed not to be given the rank of Colonel. After all, he had commanded over five hundred troops in the final mock battle that they had fought before graduation. He had even killed one of the prisoners that the school let loose for the students to hunt down.
He scanned the crowd of people disembarking for the imperial warship until he spotted his uncle, and then pushed his way through the crowd towards him. Those that got in his way he pushed to the side, and one unfortunate ended up falling into the murky depths below. Shinjen hardly noticed.
“Uncle,” he called when he was close enough to be heard. General Tarkene’s hawk like eyes locked onto his, and after a moment his face softened into a smile.
“Shinjen, it’s wonderful to see you. I’ve heard good things about you from your mother.”
“I am honored, Uncle. How was your journey?” he asked with feigned interest.
“Long and dreadfully boring. I’d just as soon forget it. Lets get these lazy slaves moving, and head up to the compound,” he shoved a boy of perhaps sixteen to punctuate his statement, and the poor slave fell heavily.
The rest of the entourage needed no further encouragement, and rapidly set to unloading the General’s luggage. Tarkene insisted on walking, and the procession wound their way through Arjuf to the military compound on its southeastern side.
“Uncle, I thought that we weren’t expected until tomorrow?”
“We’re not. Let this be your first lesson, Shinjen. Never let your underlings get complacent. If I showed up tomorrow they would have plenty of time to prepare, and my inspection would be worthless. This way I get to see the things that they would prefer to keep hidden.”
“Devious, Uncle. Truly devious,” Shinjen replied with obvious admiration.
* * * * *
Drevin was genuinely surprised when he saw the General’s entourage coming through the gate into the courtyard. The Colonel had not expected him until the following day, and from what he knew of the plan they were supposed to be long gone by then.
“Atten-shun,” he bellowed to his troops. He had no idea how the General’s early appearance would affect things, but it would be best not to give him any idea that things were amiss. Right now his Talon had the training area to themselves, and there were no other officers present. That left it up to him to greet the General. He pivoted smartly on his heel and faced Tarkene. One hundred and twenty-five pairs of feet followed him in perfect unison.
“At ease men,” the General gestured casually, and Drevin’s troops relaxed.
“Sir, it’s a pleasure to see you. My apologies for a lack of proper décor, sir. We were told you’d be arriving tomorrow,” he kept his voice as servile as possible while saluting the General, and then went back to a ready position.
“Of course you weren’t. That’s why I came today. From your insignia you are a Talon leader, but I don’t recognize you. When were you promoted?” Tarkene asked scornfully. As a mortal Drevin’s armor was much less stylized than his Dragon Blooded brethren, and the General didn’t seem to like the idea of him commanding a full Talon.
“Last month sir,” he answered evenly.
“I see. Escort me to Colonel Andrani, and then show Major Shinjen around the compound. He will be your new commanding officer.”
Shinjen sized up Drevin, and obviously didn’t like what he saw. He fell into line behind the General, and the Captain led them to the Colonel’s manor house. By the time they reached the door word must have reached the Colonel because he was waiting patiently outside.
“Welcome to Arjuf, General Tarkene,” Andrani greeted his superior in an even tone with no hint of emotion.
“Thank you Andrani. This is Major Shinjen. He is here to replace Major Ryokai,” the General gestured towards Shinjen who tried his best to look impressive in his red jade plate.
“I see. Shinjen your fine reputation precedes you, and I am honored to have you serving under me,” the pair clasped hands, but glared daggers at each other.
“Colonel, I’d like to begin the inspection now if possible,” Tarkene pressed.
“Of course, General. If you will give me a few moments to prepare then we’ll begin,” he snapped his fingers, and several slaves hurried to provide refreshment for the General’s entourage.
“Captain Drevin, would you escort me to my chambers?”
Drevin fell in step behind Andrani and followed him into the manor. He was very conscious of the scornful looks that Shinjen and his uncle shot him, but did his best not to let them affect his composure. Once inside the Colonel turned to speak with him.
“This isn’t good,” he began in a low voice, “We were to leave tonight, but that’s going to be much more tricky with the General here. By my estimates we can count on nearly three hundred of the men to go with us. Tarkene could easily rally the rest, and the Dragon would be torn apart.”
“What if we kept the general apart from the men?” Drevin asked.
“I was thinking the same, but that’s going to be a lot harder than it sounds. When we move to the docks he’ll most definitely hear us, and come to investigate.”
“Sir, what if we were to invite them to dine in your manor? We could bar the front door, and perhaps place a cart to block the rear.”
“That would slow him,” the Colonel mused, “But it wouldn’t take him long to get out. We’d need someone to stay and further delay them.”
“I’d be willing to lead that group, sir.”
“You know that is most certainly suicide. He’ll kill you when he does get out,” the Colonel warned.
“I know sir, but if we don’t leave someone behind none of us will make it.”
“True enough. Pick ten men that you trust, and explain the plan to them. I will escort the General around the compound, and then invite him to dinner tonight.”
The Colonel gave him a long look, but both knew that no more words were needed. Drevin left by the front door, and once again felt the stares as he passed by the General’s entourage. Looking carefully he figured that there were perhaps six Exalted in their midst. A formidable force that he and his men were going to be hard pressed to contain.
He headed back to the barracks, and searched until he found Emirile and Wes. The pair was playing Gateway in a relatively deserted portion of the building. Both looked up at his approach, and he could tell that they knew of the General’s untimely arrival.
“The plan has changed a bit,”
“I thought as much,” Emirile stated flatly.
“So what are we going to do?” Wes asked nonchalantly, as if they were talking about meeting for lunch.
“I am to pick ten men to stay behind tonight. We will keep the General bottled up as long as possible.”
“But Drevin that’s suicide.” Emirile said, obviously disapproving.
“True, but if it’s not done then no one leaves and the Dragon tears itself apart. Wes, I was hoping that you be one of the ones to stay.”
“Of course, Captain. I would have it no other way.”
“What about me?” Emirile asked in an angry tone.
“I want you to take my place as Captain of the Talon. I can think of no one better suited, and the men will need you where you are going.”
“Damn you, Drevin,” he had her neatly caught in a net of duty and she knew it.
* * * * *
“I am most impressed Colonel,” General Tarkene informed Andrani as they made their way back to his manor.
“Yes, the troops are very well disciplined,” Shinjen admitted grudgingly. Privately he thought that the Colonel had grown soft, but his troops were very well trained. He would go far with them once he was in command.
“I am glad that you approve, General” Colonel Andrani replied. It was obvious to all three that he was ignoring Shinjen, and the young man’s face darkened in anger.
“General, I have had my slaves prepare a meal this evening for your entourage. If you would do me the honor of using my home for the evening I would be very pleased.”
“Of course, of course. I would be happy too,” Tarkene replied, clearly expecting nothing less.
“Then if you will excuse me. I have a number of small tasks to attend to that will prevent me from dining with you, I am afraid.”
“Certainly, Colonel. Don’t let me detain you.”
The Colonel walked briskly back to the compound leaving them to find their own way to the manor.
“Uncle, the man clearly has no respect for you. He couldn’t even be present at dinner tonight,” Shinjen practically spat.
“Shinjen, its time for your second lesson. Andrani is one of Tepet’s best warriors. His men love him and he has never lost a battle of any significance. He knows that I am here to replace his most trusted aide. What’s more, he knows that he will be dead or imprisoned inside of a month.
“So you see,” Tarkene continued, “I can accept a little disrespect from the man. I despise his house, but even I have to admit that the man is a skilled veteran. I only wish that he had been born a Cathak.”
“As you say, Uncle,” Shinjen replied flatly.
“Mark me, nephew. If you want these men to respect you then you are going to have to learn to command their hearts, as Andrani has done. If you openly show contempt for him, then you only harm your own standing here.”
Shinjen fell silent at that. He respected his uncle and his opinions, but he still saw no reason why he should have to take such abuse from a man whose house would soon be a memory.
They entered Andrani’s manse and headed upstairs. It had been a long boring afternoon, and Shinjen was looking forward to relaxing over a glass of wine or two. He couldn’t wait to actually assume his new command, and silently fantasized about the victories that he would lead his troops to.
* * * * *
Drevin and his men waited for dark before moving up to the manor house. As promised Andrani and Ryokai were waiting out front. He gestured for his men to wait near the wall for him, and approached the Colonel.
“Sir, we’re ready. We brought torches, and two of my men are going to barricade the back door.”
“Excellent Captain. The General is upstairs, and I have arranged for a rather potent drug to be placed in their wine. It will not stop them, but it may dull their senses a bit.”
“Thank you, sir. We will need all the advantages that we can get.” Drevin admitted.
“Drevin, your sacrifice is appreciated,” Ryokai broke in, “You will be missed.”
“I will die gladly knowing that you all have made it to safety, sir.”
“Very well, Captain. May the Empress smile upon you,” the Colonel said, and the two clasped hands briefly.
“Best of luck to you sir,”
Then they were walking away, and Drevin was left with his impossible task. He had to keep six angry gods bottled up in a burning house, and he had but ten mortal helpers to assist him. He returned to his men, and began giving them their orders.
“Basil, Runi position the cart by the back door. The rest of you take your places, and when I give the signal throw your torches. Then get your bows ready and take aim at the front door.”
They moved with practiced efficiency, and were in place more quickly than he had anticipated. He felt a moment of doubt, but quickly squelched it. He would die here, but others would live because of it. He lit his torch and waved it above his head twice. The other men saw the signal and lit their torches, and then as one they threw them at the manor house.
Drevin could already hear the marching of booted feet behind him. Good, the men were on their way to the docks. He had to buy them perhaps a quarter of an hour, and then they would have enough of a lead to be safe.
The flames from the torches quickly took hold, and it wasn’t long before the house was a blaze. His men fanned out in a rough semicircle around him, and all strung their bows. He had chosen men with exceptional skill as archers, but he knew that it would matter little. The Dragon Blooded could survive blows that would kill a normal mortal, and could use their essence to dodge and block even arrows.
After perhaps two minutes he heard yells from inside, and could tell that they were making their way towards the front of the house. The flames had continued to spread, and it must be inhumanly hot in there. He wondered if the Dragon Blooded even felt it?
His question was answered when the front door burst open in a gout of flame. Following the fragments of wood was the General himself. His body was alight with flame, but it was not the fire around him that caused them. He had ignited his anima, and the flames leapt and danced around him in imitation of his fury.
“Andrani,” he bellowed, “I will kill you!”
“Loose,” Drevin said in response, and ten bowstrings sounded as one. Four of the arrows hit, and of those two seemed to harm Tarkene. One sank into his shoulder, and the other struck his thigh. He cried out in pain, but already other members of his retinue were flooding through the doorway. His archers let loose a second volley, and he saw one Dragon Blooded drop from multiple arrows. At least he would not die alone. Drevin drew his broadsword, and moved forward at a trot. He had to buy time for the Colonel.
“Shinjen,” he roared, “Face me you insolent little pup!”
Surprise registered on the faces of the Dragon Blooded then gave way to amusement. The archers behind him ceased their fire, and waited to see what became of their captain.
“Uncle, this will only take a moment,” Shinjen boasted, and then moved to engage Drevin.
As he grew closer the Captain could feel the heat from Shinjen’s anima, and could see that the Fire Aspect was wielding his Daiklaive. The massive sword dwarfed his own, and it gave his adversary the advantage of reach. His only chance was to close the distance and end this quickly.
He launched a flurry of blows at Shinjen, and could see the obvious surprise on his opponent’s face when he landed a cut on his cheek. The Exalt had been secure in his superiority, but Drevin was a master swordsman. He may not be a god, but he could still fight.
He forced Shinjen back before the ferocity of his assault, but could feel his clothes smoldering from the heat of his opponent’s anima. Fortunately it baked the sweat off of him as rapidly as it appeared.
“Nephew, I am waiting.” Tarkene called.
Shinjen’s face hardened in embarrassment, and his anima flared. He leapt high into the air, and with a fierce cry brought his Daiklaive down in an overhead strike. Streaks of essence bled off the blade, and the air around it seemed to ripple. Drevin telegraphed the blow, and brought his blade up smoothly to block it. Steel rang against jade, but the enchanted weapon proved stronger. It cleaved through Drevin’s sword, and he felt agony like he’d never known as it sank into his shoulder.
Drevin fell to the ground in a fountain of blood, and lacked the strength to rise. Dimly he heard voices around him, and saw several arrows whiz by into the crowd of Dragon Blooded. Some cried out in pain, but no more of the Exalts fell. They charged toward the archers, and Drevin felt pride as he saw them draw their blades. One by one they were cut down, but not a single one fled their enemy. He felt more and more dizzy, and then drifted into darkness.
* * * * *
“Damn that bastard to the pits of the underworld!” General Tarkene cursed at the retreating ships. He watched them sail out of the harbor, and knew that there was nothing he could do to stop them. By the time he sent a request to the imperial navy and had it authorized Andrani would be long gone.
His thigh and shoulder both ached, and that only increased his anger. How could he not have seen this coming? That bastard had taken nearly three hundred men and a great deal of equipment with him to Dragons knew where. And here he was standing like a fool. Someone was going to pay.
The flames of his anima still licked about him as he stalked back to the compound where the remaining troops still waited. When he arrived he saw that his nephew had taken charge, and had readied the men for pursuit.
“Shinjen, attend me,” he called.
“Of course, Uncle.”
The two were halfway to Andrani’s manor before Tarkene remembered that it had burnt to the ground. He went anyway. He wanted to see the ashes, and he wanted to hurt someone.
“Did we capture any of them?” he asked in a deceptively calm voice.
“The mortal is still alive, Uncle. The captain. Drevin I think his name is.”
“Good. I want the healers to tend to him, and then I want him shipped to the House of Bells. You will bring him there yourself.”
“The House of Bells, Uncle?” Shinjen asked in obvious confusion.
“Yes, the House of Bells. You have participated in the hunt there, yes?”
“Yes, Uncle,” Shinjen replied. He began to see his uncle’s plan. The House of Bells released criminals a few times a year. They were given a five-hour head start and told that if they made it off of the school grounds they would be free. Then the best of the Dragon Blooded students were set loose to hunt them. Shinjen had participated in more than one hunt himself, and had the honor of killing one of the prisoners.
Now that he thought about it this was a most appropriate fate for the mortal. He would languish in a cage for a few days, and then be run down like an animal. Not only would he be killed, but he would also be killed by school children.
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