It took well over twelve hours of flying before I reached the Hearthaven capitol. Of course I couldn’t resist a dramatic entrance. I flew low over the city and commanded Baelathor to unleash a roar. I made a few loops around the city taking in the familiar sights, the docks filled with boats connected to the Stormveil sea, The large curtain wall that seemed to be completely repaired from the war with her vassals and the keep itself standing tall over the entire city. That should be more than enough to let Allyssia know that I am here.
I landed closer to the city gate this time, of course the line of peasants that were either entering or exiting from the south entrance of the city fled in terror. Even though I landed a few hundred feet away from the main road and wall. As expected, guards were riding towards me. Baelathor’s saddlebags were full, so I really didn’t feel like lugging all of it to her keep. A few other guards were riding amongst the frightened peasants trying to reassure them that the massive monster wasn’t going to attack them.
“My Lord, Good to see you again.” Shouted a familiar voice.
Vanya, my guard from the war, removed her helmet and beamed at me. Based on her armor, she was promoted to vice captain of the guards.
“Vanya! Good to see you. How are things?” I said jovially.
“Good my Lord, but did you have to land so close? I’m sure a few peasants died from fright.” She said with a smile.
“I’m sure they’re fine. I have a lot of things to carry, and I want to spare you the trip.” The guards finally were able to get the terrified peasants to calm down. Though they looked ready to bolt if Baelathor so much as twitched. I climbed down and stretched, getting a satisfying pop out of my back.
“They’re all in the saddle bags, go ahead and climb up” I said.
“Oi, get to it.” Vanya ordered the men. They didn’t look excited but did as she commanded.
“So, what’s new in the Duchy?” I asked Vanya.
“Nothin much. Trade is good, crime is low, hells, I almost miss the war. That banker Denerif is here, got the merchants all bending backwards currying favor.”
In a whisper she said to me. “Though I’m sure the duchess will be happy to see you. Word is; she has been beside herself with loneliness.”
I almost wanted to roll my eyes. Allyssia wasn’t the type of woman to shed a tear if I turned up dead.
We rode along the street towards the keep. My arrival was apparently quite the event. People shouted and cheered as if I was some kind of returning hero.
“They are just glad that you’re not here to kill them.” Vanya said after she noticed my confusion.
“Ah I see.” Sometimes I forget that a beast like Baelathor was something that most peasants believed belonged in a story. Not sitting outside their city curled up and sleeping.
The noble quarter was more subdued, but most either bowed their heads or curtsied as I rode past. I did miss proper prostration.
Finally, Allyssia and Briannah, who was just showing pregnancy, her general, Feyrun and advisors were all waiting for me. The form of Allyssia beamed as we met eyes. Her lovely blonde hair shone in the evening sun. Her enhancement settled and she was radiating as much power as any matriarch.
I dismounted the horse and everyone, but the Duchess bowed. Of course, we had an audience.
“Duchess Hearthaven, may I say the sight of you alone was worth traveling halfway across the continent.” I said playfully.
She stifled a chuckle and said. “I was beginning to suspect that you had abandoned me for some elven queen.”
“No elf can hope to match you dear duchess.”
She sighed and gestured to the keep. “Come let us speak, I’m sure your travels have been rigorous.”
The rest of my things were being handed to her personal guard and would be in her vault in short order.
Once we were in relative privacy under the same gazebo in her gardens we began to speak in earnest. At the table was General Feyrun, Briannah and Allyssia’s young son who was more interested in the wooden horse he was playing with. I dove into the light finger food.
“Did you manage to finish your dealings with the elves?” Allyssia asked.
“Essentially, all responsible are dead and I managed to make some decent friendships.”
“What was their society like?” Briannah asked.
“Strange.Everything from their food, homes and government structure was archaic. Their magic, however, was by far the most strange. It had no structure and relied on pure imagination.” I explained.
“What of Queen Sianna?” Allyssia asked, though she had a strange tone to her voice.
“As beautiful as I am and as much as it pains me to say slightly more powerful. Smart, calculating and most important; she is patient.”
“She sounds impressive.” Allyssia said, nonplussed.
“She is, but like most elves she desires my power, but I certainly don’t intend to become some trophy husband and relegate myself to supporting her reign.” I said with honest distaste.
Allyssia looked pleased when I said that. “Good, Denerif is in the city still occupied with trade negotiations. He should be here in a few hours.”
“What are your plans for the foreseeable future?” Feyrun asked.
“Oh, I intend to do a bit of traveling. It’s about time I see more of the world.”
He grunted, not sounding convinced.
“We should have a meal with Denerif to discuss things, for now you could use a bath. You stink of wyvern.”
She was right, Baelathor had the constant smell of ash and burning flesh.
“Agreed.”
She snapped her finger, and a servant came from nowhere. “Niara will see to your needs. I had arranged everything the moment you arrived. Do save your strength for me later.”
Briannah blushed and Feyrun just rolled his eyes at the suggestion. Though what did she mean by saving my strength?
Niara led me to the large luxurious baths. I could already smell the scent of oils and flowers. Inside were three scantily clad women, courtesans no doubt. They gathered around me eagerly stripping me of my clothing, they then followed suit and dragged me to the large sunken bath. I sighed and smiled, glad to be back amongst humanity.
I showed up late to the Dawnflower. It was the best inn in the city with the finest restaurant. The Duchess of course had the entire building cleared for our meeting. She even provided a new suit of clothes. Shockingly, there was no purple. It was still mostly white and silver with pale green accents. While it wasn't to my usual taste, I could make a canvas sack look stylish.
The guards outside bowed as I walked past them.
Sitting at a table in the entirely barren dining area were Allyssia in a stunning dark purple dress with an almost scandalously plunging neckline. Denerif gave me a broad smile at my approach.
He was wearing a fine black and red doublet with matching pants and gold accents. He looked practically made of money.
“Denerif! Good to see you.” I said with actual excitement.
He got up and with a broad smile shook my hand with enthusiasm. “You as well Moon. I figured you would have been occupied so I ordered for you.”
There was a steaming bowl of soup along with some honey bread that ignited my hunger. Allyssia rolled her eyes, and I laughed. I did spend too much time with the women. After a quick scan of the building the only occupants were the people in the kitchens. Which were far enough away that they couldn’t hear.
I joined them at the table and took a few delicate sips of the soup. It was some kind of bisque made from what tasted like a sweet crab.
“Fantastic.” I muttered.
“So, what's new in the empire? the only news I have is what little I got from the guards and your letter” I said to Denerif.
“How did you get a letter into the elven lands?” Allyssia asked.
“Oh, I didn’t. I guessed that Moon would stop at Taybor before heading further south. Luckly enough I was right.”
Then he turned his attention to me. “Nothing much of note has happened, Morianne is the official heir and now she is consolidating her power.”
“I imagine she wanted you under her thumb.” I said to Allyssia.
Allyssia chuckled and said. “Indeed, she was even trying to foist a marriage to one of her uncles upon me.”
Allyssia, married off? What a horrible notion. I enjoyed her company far too much.
“No need to be jealous Moon, there is very little she can use to force me into it, besides she has more pressing concerns with her own marriage candidates.”
Then with a smile I looked at Denerif and asked. “Did she try to get you married as well?”
With an almost playful grin he said. “Worse, she was going after my coin. I essentially hold a monopoly on all banking in the empire. She wants to outlaw such things. She offered to buy a quarter of all my assets. To no doubt spin them off into a bank run by the imperial family.”
“Has she made any moves against our other allies?” I asked.
Allyssia answered, “Increased taxes on the imports from Shorecast and greater taxation on Halloway’s Mithrite mining rights.”
“That must irritate him.” I said.
“Not so much. He’s quite occupied enjoying his newfound youth. He has fathered four bastards with two on the way.” Denerif said with some exasperation.
“Is that going to be a problem for us in the future?” I asked.
Allyssia answered ,“Not likely, if any of them become a problem for his trueborn, Halloway is ruthless enough to have them killed. It wouldn’t be the first time.”
I shrugged, so long as the duchy remained stable, I didn’t care how he ruled.
“Morianne has also been drumming up dissent in regard to you, however that has proven unsuccessful. I imagine it will increase once she is officially crowned.”
I polished off the rest of my soup with a piece of bread.
“It almost sounds like she knows about our group. Has she done anything to limit the northern duchies.” I observed.
“Not as much. As far as my spies can tell me. She suspects that the south is allied due to their proximity and that you are a pawn that we court using Allyssia and wealth. Not that you actually sit at our table.”
We paused in our conversation for a few moments as the second course was carried out. It was a rack of lamb with some kind of red sauce with a side of roasted vegetables, paired with a white wine.
“What can you tell us of the elven lands? And how did you end up achieving victory in the end? Allyssia asked.
“As you know I met the queen. She proposed a deal. Limit my vengeance to only those who are guilty. With Ednali’s and Denerif’s research we managed to narrow it down to 63 elves.”
“What did she offer you?” Denerif asked.
“My memories.”
Allyssia’s eyes widened and asked. “You know who you are?”
“No, but I managed to learn a few things.”
I gave them a quick overview of the interaction with the being. Nothing that would reveal my true origins, but it was a mostly true accounting of my experience with the elves, the battles, and the deals for the Su’rans. Our meal was finished at this point, and we were casually sipping wine.
“Fascinating, this might be the single most comprehensive accounting of elven culture to date.” Denerif said.
“Can Queen Sianna really join our group.” Denerif asked.
“I’m not sure. I suggest we wait to see how far she is willing to go. When the empire fractures, I don’t doubt that they will try to ally with the elves against us.” I said.
Allyssia smiled as she understood the game I was playing. “You made sure the impression you left was a positive one. Sianna would be forced to ally with you over the humans.”
“Yes, when she chooses me over the empire even though they border the forest. Then I can extend the offer. Though I am of two minds about giving her a seat. We should speak with Halloway and Shorecast to iron out the details.”
Denerif nodded, “Yes that would be necessary.”
Then he twitched, “I forgot your apology gift from the imperial family.”
I was so caught up in our plotting that I also forgot. Denerif clapped loudly and one of his men came in. With a single gesture from Denerif the man left for a few moments and returned holding a red case. I grinned as he brought it over to me.
I rested it on the table and opened it.
“Beautiful.” I whispered.
I picked up the egg sized gem and turned it over in my hand to examine it. It was powerful.
“Is that what I think it is?Denerif.” Allyssia asked.
“Yes, one of only three shadow gems ever discovered. This one was from Argon the Defiler's own amplifier.” Denerif said.
I took out the top half of my amplifier and smiled as it fit perfectly.
“Ah, so that is the royal Mithrite," Denerif observed.
I charged the spellscript and the shadow amplifier spring to life. With royal Mithrite it should be just enough for me to cast shadow magic. I grabbed the second end of the staff and twisted them together.
The staff looked magnificent, at the top was the brightly glowing fist sized light gem surrounded by glowing purple spell script. around 8 inches beneath that was the shadow gem which didn’t reflect light. It was pure black. With small purple ripples.
“How much do you think this amplifier is worth?” I asked Denerif.
He took a deep breath and tried to consider. “It’s priceless Moon. That gem isn’t one of three discovered in the empire, it’s one of three discovered in the world. Other than the one owned by Sianna. Very few gems are close in power to the light gem and then there is the royal mithrite. Centuries from now this will be considered an artifact of incalculable value.”
“It needs a name.” Allyssia said.
I considered for a moment what I should name it. It should be something involving the sun and moon. Light and dark. It’s my entire theme really. I shrugged and settled on the first decent name that popped into my head.
“Eclipse.” I said in English.
“What does that mean?” They both asked.
“It’s when one celestial body obscures another, the sun and moons for example.”
Allyssia shrugged and said, “I suppose it is appropriate.”
“Even more, since my last name translates to Sun.”
They both looked at me confused. “Ah, I suppose I never mentioned it. I have given myself a last name.”
“And that is?” Denerif asked.
I stood up and with staff in hand did a melodramatic formal bow. “Moon Solaris The First, at your service.”
Allyssia laughedand said. “King Solaris eventually, I suppose.”
I disassembled my staff and returned it to its carrying case. The actual script would need to be adjusted for the power of the gem.
“So, you have settled on Moriah then?” Denerif asked.
“Yes.” I said as I finished my glass. I immediately grabbed the bottle from the center of the table and refilled it.
“First Denerif and Braken now you and Moriah. Is it natural to desire to carve out a piece of the world for oneself when you have great power?” Allyssia asked.
“I think so, Greed after all is infinite and everyone desires a Legacy.” I said.
“You two realize that legacy does mean having children.” Allyssia joked.
Denerif and I looked at each other, askance.
Allyssia burst out laughing. “What is it with men and children? You act as if you were the ones pushing them out.”
Then she continued as if speaking to said children. “Denerif, find some young and pretty Braken noble woman and marry her. She will add legitimacy to your claim. Moon, marry a human from Moriah, you’re going to be ruling over humans after all. And father a few half-bloods, sure their fertility is lower, but I’m sure you can fix that.”
I really didn’t want to talk about children, so I changed the conversation. “Denerif, have you started to make any headway with Braken?”
Allyssia rolled her eyes and whispered “men,” at the obvious deflection.
“Yes some, their current king is little more than a puppet, half the peasants are starving, and the other half can barely make do. The nation is so stripped of resources that your fortune is likely to eclipse the Emperor’s. They are thirsty for change.”
“How much coin do I have?” I asked Denerif.
“Roughly 1.02 million gelding almost a third of that was from all the cosmetic magic you did while in the capitol.” He said. Honestly, the entire time I was doing it I never paid attention. It was strange how little I cared about the coin.
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“What of the orc clans?” I asked.
“I’ve had no contact. Though the raids on the southern border has decreased.”
“One of my old comrades was a half orc who went south in hopes of turning her clan away from constant raids.”
“Breala?” Denerif asked.
“The very same, she wants stability and peace, to sway her clan away from violence. If you can find her, she would make for a potent ally and a way to control the orcs.”
Denerif rubbed his chin in consideration. “I’ll look into it, I was considering just wiping them out. There's not that many of them.”
“Why destroy what you can control.” Allyssia said.
“My thoughts exactly.”
“I say we table this discussion for now and continue when every member is here.” Denerif said.
“Agreed, I’ll likely have to arrange a few things with Duchess Shorecast.” I said.
Our conversation continued for well over an hour, it was mostly casual, with far less clandestine plotting. Most was just going over plans for the gathering in Vernon. As well as everything Denerif had gathered about Moriah.
It was once a colony of the empire but after Argon the defiler tried to conquer the continent they didn’t have enough resources to maintain power. The Viscount over the island declared himself king and a few generations later, as with all kingdoms, the father built it , the son grew it and the grandson destroyed it. The island was roughly 400 miles across at its widest and 700 miles from north to south. The island was ruled by Draven Moriah, by every accounting he was a despot who made the late Baron Vernon look like a priest in comparison.
His seat of power was on the southernmost tip of the island. To the north there were three baronies in liege to him. Roughly 10 years ago there was an attempt at a rebellion which failed and the remnants and their families fled north.
Roughly 200 miles south was an archipelago of small independent islands. Ruled by clan chiefs who raided trade ships and at times Moriah itself. The waters around Moria close to the empire were teeming with pirates and the ocean to the east were filled with slavers. It was a damn mess of a kingdom. But there was potential. For instance, the land was rich for farming and the mining operations were vestigial. However, the best part about the island was the hatred for the king. It was ripe for the taking. All I need is to light the spark and the flames of rebellion would rage.
Three hours later.
“You’re thinking about Moriah are you not?” Allyssia asked.
We were sitting at our usual place, a cushioned windowsill staring out at the city. She offered me a cup of tea and joined me.
“Am I that obvious?” I asked.
“That’s the same look I had when I desired to become a duchess. Though once the empire breaks apart, I will name myself Queen. And the rest will name themselves king.”
“Queen Allyssia Hearthaven. It does have a nice ring to it.”
“I have seen the mount you enhanced for Denerif, what can I offer for one of my own.” She asked.
I shrugged. “I don’t need anything. I’ll do it for free, consider it a gift.”
I turned my attention to the city below. I quite enjoyed being so high above it all.
“You’re becoming soft.” She mused.
“We’re beyond the need for payment for services between friends.”
“Is that all we are Moon? Friends.” Allyssia asked.
“You underestimate what friendship means to me.”
She paused for a few moments in contemplation then spoke.
“I suppose all you have ever had were tools and temporary allies. Very well I accept your friendship.” Allyssia offered me a hand. I met her green eyes and shook it firmly. Somehow that was more intimate than our time in bed.
Hours later I sat alone in my own rooms working on the shadow amplifier. After some testing it was roughly a six times amplifier with excellent output. I charged, activated the script and double checked within the ether, and was pleased with the results.
I created the spell circuit for umber, a spell that created a cylinder of darkness and through the amplifier tried to charge it. It was incredibly difficult, the shadow attenuated ether fought against my control but at about a quarter of my stamina drained I managed to cast the spell. In front of me a 8 foot wide and 6-foot-tall cylinder of complete darkness popped into existence. I circled it curiously before stepping inside. It was true blackness, rather disconcerting really. I cast a light orb and it fizzled into nothing.
Next was invisibility. With another enormous effort I cast the spell. Using almost a third of my stamina. I instantly vanished from sight. It was rather strange and disorienting trying to move about the room with no body. I wasn’t perfectly invisible, my body and everything on my person was slightly refractive. Though you would really have to focus to see the distortion. I was immensely pleased with eclipse. Any light mage would sell their own children for something like this.
Three days later.
Today was Baroness Vernon’s name day celebration for her son, Charles. Since three dukes, Denerif Mason himself and the Lightbearer are in attendance. It had to be extravagant. I didn’t fly Baelathor to Vernon, instead I rode in one of Allyssia’s luxurious carriages. The trip only took a few days, and I enjoyed the slow travel. The long road leading to Vernon was clear of all peasants. And dozens of luxurious carriages dominated the street.
We were already dressed for the occasion. I was in my usual purple and silver with accented gold jewelry. Allyssia was in a deep carmine dress and lovely diamond earrings. Around her neck was her amplifier. An elaborate gold neckpiece with an egg sized glowing gem in the center. I carried my amplifier at Allyssia’s insistence. The gilded staff was certainly eye-catching.
I even decided to have her spread the name Solaris. And that is how I would be announced. We were quite the impressive duo. In the carriages around us were our allies. Though it wouldn’t do to have us speak so openly. Baroness Vernon already arranged a meeting place.
We passed through the gates, and I pulled back the curtains to watch the city pass. It was only a few hours until sunset and most of the streets were cleared in preparation for our arrival. Though there was still a considerable number of people watching the precession.
“Feeling nostalgic?” Allyssia asked.
“Yes, it wasn’t too long ago that I was amongst those masses. Though it feels like an entire lifetime.”
I gazed at the familiar streets and buildings, drumming up memories of my time with the bronze spears.
“I’ve only visited here once, and it wasn’t so well put together.” Allyssia commented as she opened her window.
“Baron, Vernon was reasonably competent, though not the smartest.”
“Not smart enough to see the dagger at his back and the potential you had. I imagine if things didn’t fall apart between you two, he would be one of the most powerful barons in the empire at this point.”
“Indeed, that was my plan for him, but I grew to dislike the man.”
Allyssia smiled and said. “His loss, we would have certainly reconsidered his fate if you were on his side.”
We passed through the noble quarter. I actually spotted Sarah’s home. From what I could see it was well arranged. Soon enough we passed through the keep gate and a liveried servant opened the door once we reached the path to the entrance of the keep.
A wave of familiarity fell over me once I spotted the gardens, stone structure and the long path towards the entrance.
The man at the door bowed gracefully and opened the doors to the halls. The audience hall had been completely transformed with brilliant tapestries, smartly dress
“Duchess Allyssia Hearthaven and Lord Moon Solaris.” He announced in a booming voice.
Well over a hundred heads turned at that proclamation. Duke Halloway smiled and nodded; he was entertaining a group of young noble women. Denerif was off to one side in an intense conversation with several well-dressed noblemen including Gardenia and Martin. Other than a few more gray hairs she still looked fantastic in her black dress. We locked eyes for an instant and a small shiver ran up her spine before she mastered herself.
Talking to Duchess Shorecast was the baroness and Sarah as well as a few younger noblewomen who stood off to one side. In a corner was Sten, His wife, and daughters, they seemed to be in conversation with another family that I didn’t recognize. His eyes turned to saucers when he saw me.
“Well, this is quite the gathering.” I said.
“See some familiar faces?” she asked.
“Yes.”
“Let’s speak to Halloway then you can decide who to ignore and who to show attention.”
“Agreed.”
We made our way over to Halloway with eyes watching us. I gave a few subtle nods to the members of the cabal.
“Please my darlings, give me a few moments to speak to my friends. I promise a dance to each of you.” The brown-haired man gave them a charming smile. All signs of his age was gone and even his hair grew back thick and long. In his green and gray ensemble he looked like a storybook prince. The women bowed and left, giving him smoldering glances.
“Enjoying your youth, Duke Halloway? I jokingly asked.
He chuckled and we shook hands. “That I have, though the quality of the women this far south is to be desired. Present company excluded.”
Allyssia just rolled her eyes. The man made me look like a celibate priest.
“Any good gossip about the attendees.” Allyssia asked.
He grunted in disgust, “These people barely know how to throw a proper ball. And I care even less about this boy. At least the wine is decent.”
He came over and looked my staff up and down. “So that’s Eclipse, quite a treasure. My light mages would sell their own children to have it.”
“Indeed, as for the ball it is a bit underwhelming, I suppose were just too use to grand luxury,”
“Perhaps.” Halloway said.
“Ah, here comes Baroness Vernon, and her mother.” Allyssia said.
Baroness Vernon with her black hair and blue eyes looked like a younger copy of her mother. Sarah trailed behind. Following Baroness Ruben were the two mages I had seen so long ago, the light mage was staring at my staff with unhidden envy. Sarah remained quite it wasn't her place to speak amongst such high members of the peerage if not addressed,
“My lords and Lady.” Baroness Vernon said and bowed quickly followed by the rest of the mages. They were all dressed in the same color coordination standardized by the empire.
“Lady Vernon, I am pleased to hear of your son's good health.” Allyssia said.
“My thanks Duchess, it is an honor to have you in attendance.” Baroness Vernon said.
“And may I say it is an honor to finally meet the Lightbearer in person.” Baroness Ruben said.
She offered her hand to me which I took and placed a formal kiss. “It is my pleasure though it’s not the first time we have met.”
She looked confused. “Really? When did we meet?”
“On your trip to Vernon a few years ago your man Riker hired a company to increase defense. I was among them.”
Her eyes brightened with recognition. “Yes, I do remember my servants mentioning two elves. My, how times change.”
“Indeed.”
I caught a glance of Sten talking and laughing with his wife and daughters, they were still standing in the same area though he did flick a glance over to me every few seconds.
“So, what are your plans now? And where is the beast I have heard unending tales of, Baelathor I believe he is called.” Baroness Ruben asked.
“I plan to travel; I want to see more of the world. As for Baelathor, the lazy beast is still resting somewhere outside Hearthaven.”
“Shame, I would have liked to see him.”
“You may still yet, the night is still young after all. Now I apologize but I see my old mercenary commander. It wouldn’t do for me to not pay him some respect.”
Baroness Ruben turned her gaze to where I was looking. And noted Sten standing wine glass in hand. “Ah yes, I know the tale. Well don’t let me keep you.”
I gave her a respectful nod and headed off towards Sten, Leaving Baroness Ruben with Allyssia and Halloway. I didn't pay Sarah a second glance.
Sten straightened himself as he realized I was walking towards him. He whispered something to his wife and two daughters low enough that I didn’t hear.
“Lord Solaris. A pleasure.” Sten said with a bow, his wife and children followed. I was normally pleased with prostration from humans, but I didn’t want it from Sten.
With a chuckle I said. “Please, no need for all that, the prostration becomes tiresome.”
Sten smiled and some stress was released from him. “Well, you never know with noble types, and you look like a right king walking around with that staff.”
I looked at the glowing gilded staff. “Is it a bit much for the occasion? Duchess Hearthaven assured me it wasn’t.”
I noticed his family watching the back and forth with bewildered expressions. “Where are my manners? Sten. Do introduce me.”
“Right, this is Noria Barlow.” His wife did a short bow.
“And these are my daughters Breanne and Ella.” Breanne was the taller and older one I presume. She had her mother's bearing and grace, while the younger seemed more exuberant as if she was seeing a figure from a story.
“This is Moon Solaris, The Lightbearer and Formerly of the Bronze Spears.” I gave them a smile and a formal bow in return.
“Did father really name you?” The younger one asked eagerly.
“Yes, I was enraptured by the sight of the two moons. I suppose he thought it fit.”
“Tell me Sten what has being a Viscount like? And where are the rest of the bronze Spears.” I asked.
“It's a good life. Mark and Brandon were officially knighted. Mikah built a tavern and has a child on the way. Bast moved on and hasn’t been seen for some time neither has Caan.”
“It feels like so long ago.” I said almost to myself.
“Indeed, we did have some good battles. Though fighting is behind me.”
“What of you Lord Solaris? How has your life been since the bronze spears.” Nalia asked.
“Some good. Some bad, but I’m hopeful for the future. I’m sure the stories have been retold a thousand times.”
“Indeed, they have. I’m sorry about your apprentice.” Sten said.
“My thanks. You would have liked her, but fate was indeed a cruel mistress.”
“It is still impressive that in only two and a half years you went from being a lone elf in the forest to casually speaking with some of the most powerful people in the empire.” Breanne said.
I shrugged, “It is not so impressive. Power attracts the powerful. In truth it was inevitable. I just seized the opportunities provided.”
“It has been said that you have been to the elves. Does that mean you finally know who you are?” Ella asked.
“No, in fact it created even more questions. That not even the elves had answers to, But enough about me tell me about yourselves.”
“Unfortunately, our lives are not so fanciful as compared to yours. I mostly manage the trade and finances of my husband's lands. Breanne is also training as heir. Ella has taken up singing and has a voice as lovely as any songbird.” While she said they were not fanciful she looked overwhelmingly proud.
“It sounds like you lead a good life Sten. I am happy for you.” I said honestly.
“It is more than I deserve, but I will treasure it.” Sten said.
“You should visit sometime, you’re almost like family with how often you are discussed.” Ella said, with some hope in her eyes.
I was inclined but people close to me tend to be in danger.
“Perhaps.”
Allyssia caught my eye and signaled to a side room where the others were headed. I got the hint and nodded.
“So, it seems you are still without family.” Nalia said.
What an odd question. “Yes, but I have friends. I suppose that has to be enough.”
“I suppose Sten is the closest thing to a Father Moon has.” Ella said.
Every one of us looked at Ella confused. How exactly did she come to that conclusion? Ella noticed the bemused glances and explained. “You wake in the middle of a forest nude; no memories and Father comes along to give you a name.”
Now I could see where she was going. In imperial custom the father names the child. I suppose I could see the metaphor.
With a smile I said to Sten, with as much sincerely as I could muster. “Well father, If I fancy a young woman, I will be sure to have your approval before marriage.”
The three women giggled as Stens face was rapidly growing red. After a good few seconds of laughter, I said to the Barlow Family.
“I'm afraid I must leave you now, I have some business to discuss. Sten if there is ever something you need be sure to call on me, I count you amongst my few friends in this world.”
He stood up straight and saluted, crossing his hands across his chest. I repeated the salute and bid the women a farewell.
“It has been a pleasure; I hope we see each other again.” I gave them a bow which they returned.
I headed through the side door and a well-dressed servant bowed and said. “Follow me, My lord.”
We walked through the halls of the keep before entering a familiar room.
It was the Barons' old smoking room with elegant couches and a serene glowing fireplace. There was the lack of ash and smoke in the air which gave the room a calming ambiance. Sitting in the large lounging area were Duchess Shorecast, the formally elderly woman barely looked 25 with her glowing red hair and coquettish green dress, Denerif was next to her then Allyssia and Duke Holloway. They all sat in a loose circle on the large lounging couch.
“Done sharing war stories?” Shorecast asked.
“Essentially.” I said as I took a seat next to Allyssia. What the baron lacked in subtlety and grace he made up for in taste in furniture. The couch was so comfortable I would have minded sleeping in it.
“So, I hear you intend to make yourself a King.” Halloway said.
“Precisely, I have taken interest in the island of Moriah.”
“Yes, the island country in the middle of the Yruga ocean.” Shorecast said.
“Indeed, it is ripe for the taking and the potential benefits are incalculable.” I said.
“What do you mean?” Denerif asked.
“Did you bring the map?” I asked him.
“Yes.”
There was a table in the center of the grouping of couches around four feet wide, just large enough for Denerif to unfold the map.
It was a map of the entire known world. Vendalia to the left then south to Shorecast, Hearthaven, Halloway with Braken at the southern top.
In almost the center of the ocean between the two continents stood a singular island around a thousand miles from each continent.
“Here are my thoughts. Currently Moriah is ruled by a despot who with the right push I can easily dethrone. The island, from what we know, has excellent soil for agriculture and due to mismanagement is in decline.”
I drew four lines, from, Isran, Shorecast, Braken and the northernmost Duchy Relish to the island. Then I drew another line from Moriah to Jubani, a kingdom in the middle of Silia.
“These are the major trading routes from east to west. Currently the northern waters are teeming with piracy and the waters to the east to Jubani I are filled with slavers and even more pirates. This stifles trade and no one is willing to invest the resources to quell them.”
Then I drew three Xs on the port cities of Jubani and continued.
“Jubani is wealthy in cloth, spice, gold, jewels, precious metals and much more. Goods that the empire would love to have access to. However, Jubani and the two countries in the great desert rely on trade of produce from the north and south to sustain their population.”
At this point everyone was standing around the small table as I explained my thinking.
“There is one facet of my ability that I haven't fully explored. It is its effect on plants. In limited experiments I found that I can significantly increase the growth rate and resilience of any plant.”
Shorecast nodded, as the one who trades most with the east she understood first.“You intend to dominate the trade between the two continents.”
I smiled and said, “Indeed, I will utilize my ability to significantly increase the production of agriculture from Moriah. And I will completely undercut the markets from the north and south. To prevent reprisals, I will forge an army of flying warriors that will destroy every single pirate, slaver or merchant who does not pay tariffs to be in my waters. These wyvern riders will completely negate the possibility of any nation sending a fleet of ships.”
Eyes widened as they realized what that would mean. Denerif continued.
“You would lay claim to thousands of miles of ocean. Anyone who wanted to trade would have to pay a tariff on goods. Less a wyvern burns them from the sky. Jubani would trade the goods with you for produce instead of the north and south especially if you massively undercut their prices.”
Halloway caught on and added. “Not only that, you intend to open up trade to the elves and perhaps even the dwarves if they ever bother to come out of their underground kingdom.”
“Indeed, can you imagine how much coin there is to be made with an influx of elven goods to the east. As far as I can find the population of elves is miniscule.”
Allyssia finally added at the end. “When the empire fractures all you have to do is cut off trade to Relith. Then they will be surrounded on all sides. And we would have Moriah, No Solaria with constant shipments of supplies to bolster our forces. And when Moon creates this force of wyvern riders, we would be the single most powerful force in the world.”
Denerif added with amusement. “At that point taking Braken would be a simple task.”
Heads nodded and eyes were plastered to the map and my drawings. The true scale of the control we would have over the world, finally setting in.
“When Solaria is established. I will cut off mostl trade with the northern Duchy’s and only go through Duchess Shorecast and Hearthaven, Baelathor will render their dragon ships useless. I also intend to create messengers on the backs of birds like Noir. This will enable us to communicate faster than anyone. A message that would take weeks to arrive for other kingdoms will take hours for us.”
I added with a smile. "Denerif could even set up branches of his bank in Moriah and I am sure I could negotiate for a branch in Jubani. The flyers would make it much easier to manage."
I pointed from Moriah to the southern tip of Braken, a distance of almost two thousand miles. “A journey this long can be made in roughly 13 hours, less if the rider pushes the bird. We can attack and respond faster than any nation in the world.”
Halloway took in a deep breath and said with astonishment. “I must say Allyssia, bringing Moon into our group was a stroke of genius.”
She nodded in affirmation; her gaze locked on the map.
“For now, I will head to Moriah on my own, I’m sure the resistance is vestigial at this point, and I will need the resources to equip and feed them.”
I pointed to the three baronies in the north.
“Once I have a reasonably trained force, I will take villages and towns and finally a barony. If that baron or baroness makes sense, they will realize that the days of king Moriah are numbered, and they will swear to me. Once I have every barony under my control I will march on the capitol. Where I will kill the king and probably his entire family then crown myself.”
“What do you need from us?” Halloway asked.
“A way to get there, 1300 miles of open ocean isn’t something I know how to navigate, and I fear I will end up halfway across the world. Next is resources. Arms armor, tools and food once I find the remnant of the resistance I would need to equip them properly. From there nothing, it's best the empire believes that I am doing this of my own volition, in fact I recommend you openly condemn my actions.”
My allies remained silent, staring at the map and no doubt absorbing my ideas.
“It can work, and I know a captain who can take you. Archduke Halloway, can your people arrange the armor and weapons.” Shorecast asked.
“Yes, basic brigandines arming swords, shields, bows, arrows and everything needed to maintain that equipment can be arranged. But Moon what’s stopping you from simply taking the city by force.”
“I can but the problem is holding it. I need allies, people I can depend on, and most of all the support of the citizenry. I intend to paint myself as the savior who will rescue them from the tyranny of King Moriah. Once I have the power I will slowly eliminate everyone who opposes my rule and replace them with my own people.”
“It will be a monumental task but if you are successful….” Allyssia said and Denerif continued clearly having the same thought. “Then Moon will control the entire ocean. The blossom of trade with Silia would make his current fortune look like a pittance.”
I smiled as I said. “You all have a task ahead of you. Once I have fully established myself each of you will receive a wyvern for defense and two flyers for communication, so choose wisely whom amongst your people will receive it.”
“So, you have finally relented on flying mounts?” Shorecast asked.
“Yes, we are allies are we not, it's about time I put some trust in you. How exactly you will spin this with Morianne breathing down your necks is another problem.” I said.
“Yes, Moon does have a point there. Enhancement is one thing, but the mounts are the real power.” Allysia said.
“As much as I would like to fly, Morianne would definitely have a problem with the south gaining such power.” Shorecast said with clear resentment in her voice.
“How about this? We wait until Moon is fully established and he has trade up and running. The massive shift in power would pale in comparison to the mounts.” Denerif said and gave me a sly smile, no one seemed to notice. It seems he picked up on my game.
“Agreed.” Allyssia said, she was staring at me quite hungrily. In truth I didn’t want to share this power. But I needed them invested in my success, that means offering them incentive. Denerif was smart enough to realize my ploy. Of course, no one will get a mount even a tenth the power of Baelathor. Betrayal is always a possibility, but once I establish Moriah to my desires then even if every member of the Cabal betrays me, none will be able to survive my response.
“We need a name for ourselves.” Allyssia said.
What was with her obsessions with names?
“Do you have any suggestions?” I asked.
She just shrugged, we looked at each other and the clandestine plotting paused for the moment as we contemplated.
“Imperium.” I said in English.
Of course everyone looked at me confused.
“It translates to Absolute power. Even better no one in the world knows this tongue”
“The Imperium” Denerif said, tasting the foreign word on his tongue.
“I like it.” Halloway scampered over to the racks of bottles on the wall and took one after a few moments of examining. In the same moment I used telekinesis to bring over five glasses.
I placed each on the map In front of us. Halloway poured a tall glass for each of us and with a boisterous smile that fit his young features said. “To the Imperium.”
We raised our glasses and as one said. “To the Imperium.”