Sullivan took the letter, his expression turning serious, as he recognised the insignia. He took it out of the envelope, his eyes scanning the elegant script. A flicker of recognition passed through his eyes, followed by a wry smile. ‘This woman still gets infuriated as soon as my name is mentioned’, he mused.
The letter read: “Sullivan Lonestar, I am surprised to receive a request from you, of all people. Why would I ever accept it? But since it’s for him, if you wish to secure my services, be prepared to be taken advantage of. - Kaede Hakirai.”
“Who is Kaede Hakirai, Father?” Silas asked, his curiosity piqued. He had never heard the name before.
Sullivan looked up thoughtfully. “Kaede Hakirai is a renowned archer, a master of her craft,” he replied. “She is the Guest Master of Archery for the Takahara clan, and her skills are legendary.”
Silas was surprised. “Really? She seems like a fierce character. Why are you requesting her services, Father?”
Sullivan shook his head and smiled. “That’s a secret, for now. You’ll know about it soon enough. Go now, do something else. I need to write her a reply.”
Silas nodded and returned to his room, the name Kaede Hakirai echoing in his mind. As he passed through the grand halls, he couldn’t help but wonder how this archer connected to the larger puzzle of the Raet Empire and its great vassal clans.
He knew of the four great vassal clans that served the Raet Empire: the Remington clan in the West, their emblem the Silver Gryphon; the Takahara clan to the East, symbolized by the Crimson Dragon; the Bjornsen clan in the North, bearing the Black Raven; and the Lykaios clan in the South, represented by the Bronze Chimera. The Golden Phoenix symbolized the Raet Empire itself, the overarching sovereign power. Each clan was a cornerstone of the empire, their strength and loyalty essential to its stability.
The Raet Empire, centred on the vast and prosperous Solara Continent with its capital, the magnificent city of Elyrion, was the heart of this civilization. Known for its rich culture, advanced trade, and political acumen, the Raet Empire held sway over the other continents. To the West of Solara lay the Great Golden Desert, an expansive and arid landscape that served as a natural barrier against the neighbouring Amberfell Continent, home to the Remington clan. The desert shimmered under the relentless sun and was traversed by bustling trade caravans bringing rare goods to Elyrion. Oasis towns dotted the desert, providing vital hubs of life and commerce amidst the vast sandy expanse.
The Remington clan, Silas’s own, ruled over the Amberfell Continent, a land of towering mountains and sprawling valleys, where dense amber forests blanketed the lower slopes. Their capital, Amberheart, nestled in a vast, fertile basin surrounded by jagged peaks, stood as a fortified city—a testament to their impressive warrior spirit and strategic acumen. This unique landscape of rugged highlands and expansive lowlands made them a formidable force within the Raet Empire.
To the East, across the expansive Azure Sea, lay the Ryukami Continent, inhabited by the Takahara clan. This mountainous land was steeped in ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs. The capital, Kazehara, featured intricate and unique architecture, a testament to the artisans’ renowned skill in crafting and their deep connection to nature. It captured any visitor with its beauty and inspired awe.
To the South lay the Theron Continent, home to the Lykaios clan. This region was characterized by rugged hills and fertile valleys, and its people were celebrated for their hunting prowess and strong connection to the natural world. This bond inspired respect and admiration. Their capital, Aegis, was a fortress city, embodying their warrior culture and resilience. Beyond the hills and valleys, the southern coastline of Theron opened to the warm, tropical waters of the Emerald Sea, which was rich in marine life and provided abundant resources for the Lykaios clan.
Finally, the Bjornsen clan held sway over the frigid Frostheim Continent. Known for their resilience and strength, the Bjornsen people had adapted to the harsh environment, building a society centred around survival. Their capital, Norrgard, was a formidable stronghold designed to withstand the rigours of the northern winters, exemplifying their tenacity and endurance. Beyond the frigid waters of the Frostbound Strait, the Bjornsen clan’s land was marked by fjords and towering mountains, creating a stark and majestic landscape.
While part of the greater Raet Empire, each clan and its commanded territory possessed unique culture, traditions, and strengths. Silas wondered about the clans’ dynamics, alliances, and rivalries. He had been sheltered within the walls of Amberheart for most of his life, and his knowledge of the world beyond was limited to stories and maps. He realized that the world was far more complex than it appeared on the surface.
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Kael Sanguis was a man shaped by adversity. His early years were marked by hardship, and his noble lineage offered little material comfort. Yet, his spirit was unyielding. He excelled in the arts of war, his skill with a sword unmatched by his peers.
His mandatory service to the Baron this year had been a gruelling ordeal. The first eight days had been spent in the Baron’s retinue, a period marked by boredom and deep-seated frustration. He had been relegated to menial tasks, and his skills were underutilised. But amidst the monotony, he had honed his patience and ability to observe.
The following seven days were a testament to Kael’s leadership. He spent them either preparing for battle or dealing with the harrowing encounter with the Ashtral and its aftermath. His tactical acumen, unwavering courage, and leadership had been instrumental in stemming the tide of the creature’s onslaught. The experience had forged him into a hardened warrior, his resolve tempered by the fires of combat.
The remaining twenty-five days had been a whirlwind of activity. He had organised rescue efforts, coordinated supply lines, and bolstered the morale of the surviving soldiers. His tactical mind had proven invaluable in fortifying the camp and establishing a defensive perimeter. In the quiet hours of the night, he had studied maps and battle plans, preparing for any potential threats. In his mind, if he was fulfilling an obligation, he might as well do his best.
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As Kael prepared to step away from his obligations to the Baron, a sense of bittersweet liberation washed over him. He was eager to embrace the new chapter in his life, his heart filled with the anticipation of what was to come, but he also carried the weight of those he had left behind.
Despite formally ending his feudal obligations to the Baron, Kael Sanguis enjoyed a certain level of autonomy. His noble title, though diminished in power, still carried weight. Thus, he secured a small escort of loyal soldiers to accompany him on the arduous journey to Amberheart. This decision was not just for protection but also from a strategic standpoint—a calculated move to assert his independence and send a subtle message to the Baron that he was no longer under complete control.
The journey itself was a gruelling ordeal. The remnants of the Ashtral’s devastation still marred the landscape, a constant reminder of the dangers in the wilderness. They traversed treacherous terrain, facing the elements and the ever-present threat of wild animals. Yet, Kael and his men pressed on, their determination as unwavering as the mountains they climbed.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the spires of Amberheart loomed on the horizon. The city’s crown of stone and steel rose from the twilight, a formidable stronghold etched against the darkening sky. This was the Remington clan’s stronghold, the heart of their royal kingdom, and a bastion of power in the Amberfell Continent. The Remingtons were renowned throughout the Raet Empire for their unwavering loyalty and unmatched martial skills.
Their capital, Amberheart, was a fortified city, a testament to centuries of strategic thinking and military prowess. The Remington’s ancestral home in Amberheart was a citadel, its imposing walls and soaring spires a testament to their military might and unyielding spirit. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the city in a golden glow, it was both a promise of sanctuary and a stark reminder of the formidable force within its walls.
Kael inquired about the location of War Master Sullivan’s residence. The estate was vast, and finding the specific dwelling without guidance would be time-consuming. To his relief, the guards at the gate were familiar with the name. As a Guest War Counselor, Sullivan was a figure of considerable importance within the clan. With directions, Kael and his escort made their way through the sprawling estate.
As they approached the Lonestar manor, Kael felt a sense of anticipation and trepidation. ‘This is it’, he thought, his heart pounding. My new life is about to begin.’
Kael, accompanied by a trusted lieutenant, approached the sprawling Lonestar manor. The estate was a breathtaking testament to the Remington clan’s wealth and the Warmaster’s influence. As they passed through the intricately designed gates, Kael couldn’t help but feel the weight of this new beginning pressing on his shoulders. After navigating the intricate layout, they were greeted by a maid, a woman of impeccable manners and posture.
“Welcome to the Lonestar manor,” she said with a respectful bow. “Master Sullivan is expecting you. Please, follow me.”
Kael and his lieutenant exchanged a glance before nodding and following the maid through the grand corridors. The manor blended elegance and practicality, with every detail meticulously crafted. The walls were adorned with tapestries depicting the history of the Remington clan, a legacy of warriors and leaders. The air was thick with the scent of polished wood and burning candles, a comforting warmth that belied the cold steel that surely lay hidden beneath the surface.
They were led to a spacious sitting room, where Sullivan awaited them. The War Master was a man of formidable presence, his expression one of calm authority. His eyes, however, betrayed a keen intelligence that had undoubtedly seen much of the world and its complexities.
“Kael Sanguis,” Sullivan greeted him, his voice steady. “I trust your journey was uneventful?”
Kael nodded, his expression composed despite the swirl of emotions beneath the surface. “As agreed, War Master,” he replied, carefully masking his anticipation with a calm exterior.
Sullivan studied him for a moment, then gestured to a chair. “Sit. We have much to discuss.”
Kael did as he was told, taking the seat across from Sullivan. The lieutenant remained standing, his eyes scanning the room with a soldier’s vigilance.
Sullivan leaned back in his chair, his gaze unwavering. “Your service has been commendable, Kael. I’m sticking to my word—your salary will be doubled. But more than that, you will be given the resources you need to train and mould young Silas into a capable warrior. He has potential, but he needs someone like you to guide him.”
Kael listened intently, his mind already racing with plans. ‘Training young Silas’, he thought, ‘will be a challenge. But it’s one I’m prepared for.’
Sullivan turned to a waiting maid. “Bring Silas here,” he instructed.
A few moments later, Silas burst into the room, his face alight with excitement. His eyes darted between his father and Kael’s imposing figure.
“Father, you said I was getting a new sword instructor?” Silas asked eagerly.
Sullivan nodded. “Meet Kael Sanguis. He will be your teacher and protector.”
Kael stepped forward, offering a small smile. “It is a pleasure to meet you, young master,” he said gently.
Silas’s eyes widened in recognition. He recalled seeing Kael at the encampment after the Ashtral incident. The man had been the commander of the troops, his aura of authority and resilience unmistakable. To have him as a sword instructor was beyond his wildest dreams.
Excitement bubbled within him. “You’re the commander!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with admiration.
Kael nodded, a wry smile playing on his lips. “I was fortunate enough to survive,” he replied modestly.
Sullivan’s tone softened slightly, a hint of warmth in his otherwise stern demeanour. “You’ll begin tomorrow. I expect results, Kael. This is not just about training a soldier—it’s about shaping a leader.”
Kael nodded, understanding the weight of the responsibility. “Understood, War Master. I won’t disappoint you.”
Sullivan offered a brief smile, then stood. “Good. I’ll have the maid show you to your quarters. Rest well tonight—you’ll need your strength.”
As Kael rose from his chair, Sullivan extended his hand. Kael hesitated momentarily before taking it, a firm handshake sealing their agreement.
“Welcome to Amberheart, Kael,” Sullivan said, “I look forward to seeing what you can do.”
Kael gave a slight bow, his expression one of determination. “Thank you, War Master. I won’t let you down.”
As the maid led Kael and his lieutenant through the manor’s halls, Silas watched from a distance, his eyes wide with curiosity. He had heard grand tales about Kael from the soldiers at the camp. To have such a man as his mentor was both exhilarating and daunting.
The reality of having a legendary warrior as his instructor was almost too exciting to contain. Tomorrow couldn’t come fast enough—he couldn’t wait to see the look on Rowan’s face when he shared the news.