"Aye, sir High Commander. I've never seen anything like it. Coralius had his neck broken, and then the blasted beast attacked us. It was chaos."
"How did you live when the others died so easily according to you?"
"He gave me a message and sent me on my way. I truly wish I would have fallen with my brothers sir, but the fates wouldn't allow it."
High Commander Laetos stared down at the wooden floor of his study. The room was dimly lit by a small chandelier containing numerous candles. The air contained a scent derived from the cherry wood that made up most the furniture and the smoke that drifted from two brazers filled with iridescent coals, which stood on both sides of the High Commander's desk to keep the room warm.
Jacon held his bandaged arm and waited nervously for Laetos' response. He was seated in the middle of the room, while the High Commander paced back and forth in front of him. It wasn't often that a common soldier like Jacon had a one on one audience with the likes of a Commander, let alone the person responsible for the entire might of the Leonite Empire. However, this was hardly a commonality altogether. The Empire's most prized possession had escaped and it was hard to know what Laetos was truly thinking. His cool dispensation made reading him nearly impossible. Jacon braced himself for the worst.
He watched the High Commander stop pacing and brush his hand through the thickness of his mane that ran from his neck up to the front of his brow.. Manes were only found on the highest members of the empire.
The emperor, advisers, generals, commanders and naturally the high commander, all sported elegant manes. Some even wore intricate ornaments hung from the end of the braided strands under their chins.
Laetos' mane ran long atop his head, and stretched down the back of his neck, but was short as it reached behind his ears, and then became long once more under his chin. For an older Leonite, there was a striking attractiveness to him. He was broad in the shoulders and a gentleman when in the company of others. He had a way with words as much as he did a sword. His fur was as golden as the armor he wore, and his eyes were a brilliant emerald green. It was his most unmistakable feature above all else. Leoness women would swoon over him almost instantly. If his charm didn't melt their heart his physical appearance would.
He let out a sigh just then, and looked toward the unsure Jacon, "Well then... Return to your captain and resume your duties. I will address the Emperor on the matter myself. Dismissed." Jacon didn't move due to shock. He half expected the High Commander to kill him in a blind rage right about then. The High Commander, didn't say another word to him and instead made his way to the far side of the room where a mirror was hung and next to it was a dressing screen with an extravagant red velvet cape hung over the top. He swung it around his back and examined himself in the mirror as he fidgeted with the silver links. Jacon didn't wait any longer and went to the large wood door. After heaving it open with his one good arm, Jacon quickly strode away.
A guardsman held the door open for a moment and peaked in to see where the High Commander was, "Lord High Commander, the Emperor wishes to see you at once." He was already coming to the door then, and as he stepped out the sun erupted on his polished armor. It was gold with silver trim running about the edges. It was his armor alone, other members of the imperial hierarchy wore their own branded armors and fine clothes. The High Commander preferred to keep his 'skin' on at all times, as he would often call it.
"You're new?" He said to the same guard that had peeked into his quarters, as they began to walk slowly toward the large sparkling palace of Citadel.
"Aye, sir High Commander. Commander Shumpar gave me the post several days ago. It's... it's an honor to serve you sir." The guard fumbled his words out of intimidation. He, like so many others, had tried to understand what was flowing through Laetos' consciousness and he, like the others, failed to make any determined conclusions.
"Have you seen a battlefield before? Ever fought for your life?" He said with hardly any emotion at all and continued looking forward as they walked.
"Aye. Several sir."
"I have been in more wars, and possibly fought more battles than I think any single other Leonite alive."
"Of course sir, your prowess is unchallenged on the battlefield." Laetos chuckled a bit from the comment.
"No. I'm High Commander because I understand who I should fear and who I should fight." The serious tone returned in his voice.
"I've never feared the battlefield, never feared the cold steel, I've never feared death but... the Emperor... he instills more fear in me than a thousand lifetimes of battle ever could."
***
Falst's wooden sword blasted Kurig's wooden shield. The attack was vicious. As it connected, a sharp clap singed the air in the courtyard. The other guards stood in a wide circle around Kurig and Falst. Murmuring, wincing, and goading as the two continued sparring.
Falst was a larger than average Leonite, he stood nearly a foot and a half taller than average and was built from head to toe of solid muscle. He preferred to simply overpower opponents rather than out wit them. So there was a distinct and extremely warranted concern for Kurig's safety when the two agreed to a spar. Falst was considered a veteran in the Citadel guard and Kurig was still a green thumb, trying to earn his name.
Kurig wasn't anything to scoff at physically though. He wasn't a match for Falst pound for pound, or as tall as him, but he was still larger than average and twice as smart. The Citadel Guard weren't known for their combat prowess or extensive training. They were the common guard for all of Citadel. Often times the only real 'combat' they ever saw was the occasional brawl in a pub, or a disagreement between two betters. The best trained were found in the Imperial Guard, the guards specially assigned to protect the palace. Kurig was an exception to this, however, as he had spent countless hours studying the Imperial Guard and their sparring sessions in the palace courtyard.
Through his continued observation and practice, Kurig became formidable as an opponent. The guards would often times put together sparring tournaments on days that they trained and Kurig was, to this point, the undisputed champion. After several tournaments, guards stopped fighting him altogether. He was practically ostracized from his peers and left to himself. That all changed today. Falst had never participated in any of the tournaments among the guards. He never felt it necessary to prove anything; he let his appearance do that for him. So it was all anyone could talk about when he approached Kurig early that morning.
"The captain says we're at the palace grounds today." He said, without any semblance of a threat in his voice.
"Aye. So I've heard." Kurig answered in similar fashion.
"Think you can handle a true challenge, boy?" That's when his tone changed and Kurig took note. He moved closer to Falst, so close their noses were nearly touching. They bared fangs and gave low growls, then Kurig whispered, "Don't hold back old man... I surely won't."
"Hmmf. Pray that blood still flows in your veins when I'm through with you, boy." Falst's deep voice made him feel uneasy but he refused the pleasure of him knowing it. Though their exchange was quiet and Kurig was sure no one could have heard, he knew that it just became the pinnacle of gossip among the guard.
In the courtyard, the two of them were circled about by the others. They sized each other up for a while and carried on with some banter before finally the crowd demanded that they start. Falst was the first to make his move. He charged into Kurig first thing. Kurig knew it was coming and projected his wooden shield into Falst. They collided. Falst wasn't prepared for the strength of Kurig which prevented any real followup as Kurig shoved him away.
Falst swung his blade down toward Kurig, as it was about to land, he tilted his shield and let the blade glance off to the side, then he spun around and whipped his sword into Falst's ribs. The Leonite howled in pain, then swiped at Kurig, this time he didn't have time to react, he took the blow with the fullness of his shield. It's impact knocked him off balance, so much so that he had to plant his own sword into the ground to avoid falling down. When he regained his feet Falst was already on him. Reacting quickly he lifted his shield as the next blow came in. The blade held strong on Kurig's shield. The wood began to splinter from the shield, and the weight had forced him to his knee. Falst only bared his fangs in a wicked smile as he continued to press down. Emboldened by the idea that Falst was growing confident and had the gull to show it in his face, Kurig growled lightly then and pushed him away. As he did he used the small opening to bound forward and thrust his blade into the exposed area on Falst's chest, the wood connected with his metal chest plate making a hollow bang.
Kurig continued his assault; he swung his blade right which Falst countered easily with his own blade, but Kurig expected it, he kicked sharply at the inner part of Falst's knee which gave out immediately. Then he swiped his shield upward connecting with Falst's jaw. Blood shot outward and he tumbled over and onto all fours. Kurig swung his sword downward at Falst's neck and stopped just as it touched the skin.
"Concede Falst?" He asked with a wry smile. Falst spat out more blood then growled and deflected the wooden blade away with his shield and as he came to his feet he brought his sword up with an undercut just missing Kurig. He made several hacks at Kurig till there was an opening and Kurig hacked at his sword hand and struck just under the wrist. Falst roared in pain as he dropped his blade. Kurig swung his blade with authority at Falst's now defenseless side. It struck home on his shoulder. There was a sharp yelp from Falst, but he didn't pay much attention to it as he on the attacking Kurig.
Using his shield, he defended against several of Kurig's attacks and made an attempt at even clawing at his face, but it was in vain. Kurig saw an open opportunity and charged at Falst. He knew that Falst wouldn't back down and planned on the giant to hold his ground even if weaponless. He was right. Falst brought his shield up and braced the impact, but as he did he took his eyes off of the oncoming Kurig, it was just the opening that Kurig needed. He slid past Falst and whipped his sword into his back. Falst yelped and arched his back. He fell to the ground in a heap and didn't get back up. The other guards groaned and hollered at Falst in disappointment.
A horn blared through the courtyard indicating that a member of the hierarchy was present. The men stopped what they were doing and turned to face them. In through the archway walked the High Commander and a member of the Imperial guard. He continued walking without any inclination toward the men save it be a quick glance at the downed Falst and Kurig standing in the middle of a circle of guards, sword and shield still in hand. Kurig didn't take his eye off the High Commander either, he watched him till the commander disappeared through a staircase and up toward the palace.
"C'mon lads gather yourselves and meet at the palace gate. The Emperor has an audience with members of the hierarchy in the hour and we're to be present. Now move!" The captain hollered through the colonnade. The guards broke their circle and went to the walls surrounding them where their equipment had been laid to rest during the sporting. Kurig wrapped his sheath's belt around his waist and cinched it tightly, then picked up his worn helm and tucked it under his arm. The other guards were filing out of the courtyard single file. Kurig took a light jog and took his spot as the last in line. Then the company of guards walked in disciplined fashion through the palace grounds till the reached the enormous golden doors.
The palace sat at the top of Citadel. Citadel was comprised of three major levels; the lowest was called the Commons, and was where anyone could go. It was the entrance to the city and it was also where most goods were sold. The second level, or Midtown, was a more elegant place. The common people weren't allowed in Midtown and it was a haven for the rich and noble. Inns, pubs, high quality merchants and traders were found in Midtown, as well as the Citadel guard and Imperial Guard barracks. Then there was the palace itself. It was a masterful gold monolith. It was as beautiful as it was daunting. A symbol of strength and pride for the Leonite empire, and a curse for all others. The first Leonite emperor made sure it was the center of all of Ashenfeld and that all other races would know it for generations to come.
At the doors, stood nearly a dozen imperial guards. They were dressed from head to toe in their golden armor. Kurig was impressed by their discipline. None moved a muscle till his group was nearly upon them, then two pairs of guards walked to both doors and heaved them open. They opened slowly but the group continued on through the narrow opening. It never failed to amaze Kurig how beautiful the inside of the palace was.
Inside was a grand spacious throne room. At the sides of the room were staircases leading up to balconies overlooking the throne below. Large banners hung above. They were the same deep red color that the High Commander had on his cape. Different golden Leonite heads could be found embroidered on either side of the banners. The banners were assembled in two rows overhead following the path up to the throne. The throne itself was solid silver. Draped from the back of it, falling over the front of the backrest on down to the floor was another smaller banner. In the middle of the backrest where the banner was strewn was another Leonite head. This one was silver and was a different face altogether. It resembled the current Emperor. Emperor Draeson.
The guards closed in on the throne and just before they met the steps leading up to it they took a turn to the right and went through a door tucked in the corner. As they filed in Kurig took notice of the large wooden table in the middle of a much smaller room than what they had just been in. Of the dozens of visits to the palace this room was never shown to him. Around the table sat the Emperor, the High Commander and five other men of the hierarchy. All were dressed in the finest of clothing, save it be the High Commander who wore his skin.
As the men finished entering the room the door was closed and all was silent. Kurig and the other guards stood along one of the longer walls so that all the hierarchy could see them.
"We welcome you to this audience." The Emperor addressed the guards. Kurig was astonished by how young the Emperor was. He was certain that he couldn't be that much older than himself. The color of his fur also took him by surprise. Ever since he could remember the imperial family had always been of golden fur. When he was young he used to lose himself in awe at the emperor's golden fur. He remembered it being nearly as glorious as the golden armor of the guards surrounding him, but Draeson did not share that trait. As if Emperor Draeson wasn't already peculiar to him, he took note that the mane was only grown from behind his ears and then blossomed under his jaw.
Kurig realized then, that he had not seen the Emperor in person to this point. It had only been eight months since he was made Emperor and his father before him passed away due to illness. His father had been very flamboyant and threw festive parties monthly that brought all the people together. Draeson couldn't be further from the festive type. He avoided the public's eye for almost all of his life; he would stay within the palace walls at all times and preferred only the company of his family. Most thought him to be disturbed and they were probably right, but despite it all he was actually very well spoken and was a revered tactician after planning out several battles in the war and winning those battles handedly. All without leaving the palace itself. He was meticulous in his plans and knew every detail going into a battle. From the amount of arrows the archers of a legion would have, to the types of armor his enemies would be wearing. It was all collected and stored deep within his crooked, and misunderstood, mind.
Despite what Kurig thought of the Emperor, his many differences in character didn't seem to have any effect on his overall ability to carry on after his father. In fact, he had the confidence of ten emperors regardless of his appearance and his lack of public admiration. When he spoke he held his chin high and every word was injected with charisma. He didn't seem to be a disliked person, but the hierarchy had a look on their faces that implied they didn't want to draw his attention. It was fear that sunk in their souls and seeped from their eyes. Draeson was a man to fear, and that was something Kurig took particular note of.
The Emperor continued, "We're extremely pleased to see such fine warriors in the Citadel Guard. All of you have proven yourself worthy of joining the ranks of the Imperial. Which is my privilege to bestow upon you at this time. From now till the endless dark takes you, I grant all of you the position of Imperial guard. I have spoken it and so it shall be done." None of the guards made any movement nor did they speak. They continued looking forward in silence. To Kurig though it was a bitter sweet announcement. Yes, he did very much desire to be a part of the Imperial Guard, but this seemed... lackluster to say the least. It wasn't a ceremony and it wasn't even much of a declaration either. It seemed more like another days item on the list to check off and do so as soon as possible. It's probably for the best if he stay hidden in the palace if this is all we get for ceremony.
"You've trained them well captain. I applaud the discipline."
"Thank you sire." Their captain replied quickly but remained as still as the others.
"Now, to discuss other matters." Emperor Draeson began addressing each member of the hierarchy discussing different matters according to the position that member held. Together the hierarchy went through every area of the empire, from finances to royal banquets. It went on for several hours before finally the Emperor addressed the High Commander.
"Lastly, I believe there's something you want to tell me Laetos?" The High Commander froze for a moment. He could only close his eyes for a brief moment before the Emperor asked again.
"Well, High Commander? Go on. Tell me." His voice began to take on a hostility that took Kurig by surprise. He slid his chair out and made his way slowly around the table and came to a stop in front of the High Commander. Delaying no further he finally replied, "Yes, your excellence. There is news. I was hoping to spare you the annoyance, as this is distasteful news."
"Clever choice of words Laetos, very clever. Yes, I suppose that is how I'd describe losing four of my Imperial Guard, and the most valuable possession the Empire had in Kamas The Black." Laetos never met the Emperor's stone-like glare. The Emperor on the outside didn't look angry or upset, in fact he looked almost cheery, but his tone told another story. It was full of condescension and stung like a wasp as it left his lips. Losing his patience the Emperor slammed his fist on the table creating a loud thud then yelled, "Where is my prisoner!?" The rest of the table jumped slightly in reaction. Several members shifted uneasily in their chairs, sneaking nervous glances at Laetos.
"He escaped sire. One of the guards that pursued him returned with the news just hours ago. I apologize for not informing you sooner, and we are doing all we can to apprehend him." Laetos looked genuinely afraid as he looked up to the Emperor. The Emperor stood silently in front of him. He didn't say anything for a moment, he just looked at Laetos. It made Kurig feel uneasy yet again, as if he could feel any more uncomfortable.
"Aside from my prisoner escaping, we have another equally large problem. Don't we Laetos?" The High Commander looked confused now.
"I don't quite follow you sire."
"Mmm. Well only one of our guards returned from the Ascended Forest correct?" The High Commander nodded.
"Then where are the rest of my men?"
"Dead sire."
"Yeeeees. Dead. Who killed them Laetos?" The High Commander looked embarrassed now as several chuckles were heard from members of the hierarchy. Laetos shot the last person to do so a sharp glance, then answered.
"Jacon said it was a clansman."
"Exactly!" The Emperor yet again slammed the table with his fist, and repeatedly did so with smaller thuds as he spoke.
"An ape, a filthy ape, has killed a Leonite. Don't you think that warrants some action old friend?"
"Indeed sire. I can assemble an emissary to visit the clans home and discuss handing over the foul beasts that did this."
"No. I should have taken that infernal forest when I had the chance." That piqued the interest of the entire room as every member of the hierarchy turned to face the Emperor. Before, none dared make eye contact for fear that he'd take his rage out on them in place of the High Commander. Even Laetos drew his attention from the table top to the Emperor.
"I'm not sure I follow." He said.
"I want that ape's head served hot on a silver platter, is that clear enough? In fact, I want that entire confounded forest to burn!"
"Sire please, we just exited a war with the clans. Peace was made and we've been able to live separate of each other for years now. It's not worth the loss of thousands." Emperor Draeson sneered at him.
"Don't you even begin to tell me what's worth it or not! I will tell you what's what, do you understand?"
"Of course sire, but.." Laetos tried to speak but was cutoff yet again by the Emperor.
"Not another word Laetos. Not. Another. Word. You will assemble the legions and you will prepare my people for war. Understood?" The High Commander looked distraught himself. He stayed silent for a moment then finally responded to the Emperor.
"Yes, your majesty. However, as the military adviser for not just you but also this entire hierarchy, I find it extremely necessary to take proper security precautions. So because of this, I will be appointing myself a new personal guard. I advise everyone at this table to do so, and I would be happy to make the selections if you see it fit." The other hierarchy members nodded and whispered in agreement. The Emperor lost his intense demeanor and seemed to relax a bit as he replied.
"Tis a good suggestion. Go and pick out some Imperial Guards and be on with the real matters of the empire. Namely my war!" The Emperor turned away and walked toward one of the doors exiting the room. Laetos rose from his seat slowly.
"Thank you sire, but I'll be picking mine from this fine lot of guards. You there, what's your name?" He said jutting his chin toward the line of guards.
"Kurig. My name is Kurig sir." Came the disciplined voice. The Emperor stopped just short of his exit and turned back to the room. He shifted his gaze from the line of guards to the High Commander who was now standing, watching the Emperor closely. He scoffed slightly, "So be it Laetos, it is your life not mine." With that he left the room and Kurig was yet again shocked and dismayed and ready to retreat for the rest of the day and let his mind and emotions rest.
Falst was a larger than average Leonite, he stood nearly a foot and a half taller than average and was built from head to toe of solid muscle. He preferred to simply overpower opponents rather than out wit them. So there was a distinct and extremely warranted concern for Kurig's safety when the two agreed to a spar. Falst was considered a veteran in the Citadel guard and Kurig was still a green thumb, trying to earn his name.
Kurig wasn't anything to scoff at physically though. He wasn't a match for Falst pound for pound, or as tall as him, but he was still larger than average and twice as smart. The Citadel Guard weren't known for their combat prowess or extensive training. They were the common guard for all of Citadel. Often times the only real 'combat' they ever saw was the occasional brawl in a pub, or a disagreement between two betters. The best trained were found in the Imperial Guard, the guards specially assigned to protect the palace. Kurig was an exception to this, however, as he had spent countless hours studying the Imperial Guard and their sparring sessions in the palace courtyard.
Through his continued observation and practice, Kurig became formidable as an opponent. The guards would often times put together sparring tournaments on days that they trained and Kurig was, to this point, the undisputed champion. After several tournaments, guards stopped fighting him altogether. He was practically ostracized from his peers and left to himself. That all changed today. Falst had never participated in any of the tournaments among the guards. He never felt it necessary to prove anything; he let his appearance do that for him. So it was all anyone could talk about when he approached Kurig early that morning.
"The captain says we're at the palace grounds today." He said, without any semblance of a threat in his voice.
"Aye. So I've heard." Kurig answered in similar fashion.
"Think you can handle a true challenge, boy?" That's when his tone changed and Kurig took note. He moved closer to Falst, so close their noses were nearly touching. They bared fangs and gave low growls, then Kurig whispered, "Don't hold back old man... I surely won't."
"Hmmf. Pray that blood still flows in your veins when I'm through with you, boy." Falst's deep voice made him feel uneasy but he refused the pleasure of him knowing it. Though their exchange was quiet and Kurig was sure no one could have heard, he knew that it just became the pinnacle of gossip among the guard.
In the courtyard, the two of them were circled about by the others. They sized each other up for a while and carried on with some banter before finally the crowd demanded that they start. Falst was the first to make his move. He charged into Kurig first thing. Kurig knew it was coming and projected his wooden shield into Falst. They collided. Falst wasn't prepared for the strength of Kurig which prevented any real followup as Kurig shoved him away.
Falst swung his blade down toward Kurig, as it was about to land, he tilted his shield and let the blade glance off to the side, then he spun around and whipped his sword into Falst's ribs. The Leonite howled in pain, then swiped at Kurig, this time he didn't have time to react, he took the blow with the fullness of his shield. It's impact knocked him off balance, so much so that he had to plant his own sword into the ground to avoid falling down. When he regained his feet Falst was already on him. Reacting quickly he lifted his shield as the next blow came in. The blade held strong on Kurig's shield. The wood began to splinter from the shield, and the weight had forced him to his knee. Falst only bared his fangs in a wicked smile as he continued to press down. Emboldened by the idea that Falst was growing confident and had the gull to show it in his face, Kurig growled lightly then and pushed him away. As he did he used the small opening to bound forward and thrust his blade into the exposed area on Falst's chest, the wood connected with his metal chest plate making a hollow bang.
Kurig continued his assault; he swung his blade right which Falst countered easily with his own blade, but Kurig expected it, he kicked sharply at the inner part of Falst's knee which gave out immediately. Then he swiped his shield upward connecting with Falst's jaw. Blood shot outward and he tumbled over and onto all fours. Kurig swung his sword downward at Falst's neck and stopped just as it touched the skin.
"Concede Falst?" He asked with a wry smile. Falst spat out more blood then growled and deflected the wooden blade away with his shield and as he came to his feet he brought his sword up with an undercut just missing Kurig. He made several hacks at Kurig till there was an opening and Kurig hacked at his sword hand and struck just under the wrist. Falst roared in pain as he dropped his blade. Kurig swung his blade with authority at Falst's now defenseless side. It struck home on his shoulder. There was a sharp yelp from Falst, but he didn't pay much attention to it as he on the attacking Kurig.
Using his shield, he defended against several of Kurig's attacks and made an attempt at even clawing at his face, but it was in vain. Kurig saw an open opportunity and charged at Falst. He knew that Falst wouldn't back down and planned on the giant to hold his ground even if weaponless. He was right. Falst brought his shield up and braced the impact, but as he did he took his eyes off of the oncoming Kurig, it was just the opening that Kurig needed. He slid past Falst and whipped his sword into his back. Falst yelped and arched his back. He fell to the ground in a heap and didn't get back up. The other guards groaned and hollered at Falst in disappointment.
A horn blared through the courtyard indicating that a member of the hierarchy was present. The men stopped what they were doing and turned to face them. In through the archway walked the High Commander and a member of the Imperial guard. He continued walking without any inclination toward the men save it be a quick glance at the downed Falst and Kurig standing in the middle of a circle of guards, sword and shield still in hand. Kurig didn't take his eye off the High Commander either, he watched him till the commander disappeared through a staircase and up toward the palace.
"C'mon lads gather yourselves and meet at the palace gate. The Emperor has an audience with members of the hierarchy in the hour and we're to be present. Now move!" The captain hollered through the colonnade. The guards broke their circle and went to the walls surrounding them where their equipment had been laid to rest during the sporting. Kurig wrapped his sheath's belt around his waist and cinched it tightly, then picked up his worn helm and tucked it under his arm. The other guards were filing out of the courtyard single file. Kurig took a light jog and took his spot as the last in line. Then the company of guards walked in disciplined fashion through the palace grounds till the reached the enormous golden doors.
The palace sat at the top of Citadel. Citadel was comprised of three major levels; the lowest was called the Commons, and was where anyone could go. It was the entrance to the city and it was also where most goods were sold. The second level, or Midtown, was a more elegant place. The common people weren't allowed in Midtown and it was a haven for the rich and noble. Inns, pubs, high quality merchants and traders were found in Midtown, as well as the Citadel guard and Imperial Guard barracks. Then there was the palace itself. It was a masterful gold monolith. It was as beautiful as it was daunting. A symbol of strength and pride for the Leonite empire, and a curse for all others. The first Leonite emperor made sure it was the center of all of Ashenfeld and that all other races would know it for generations to come.
At the doors, stood nearly a dozen imperial guards. They were dressed from head to toe in their golden armor. Kurig was impressed by their discipline. None moved a muscle till his group was nearly upon them, then two pairs of guards walked to both doors and heaved them open. They opened slowly but the group continued on through the narrow opening. It never failed to amaze Kurig how beautiful the inside of the palace was.
Inside was a grand spacious throne room. At the sides of the room were staircases leading up to balconies overlooking the throne below. Large banners hung above. They were the same deep red color that the High Commander had on his cape. Different golden Leonite heads could be found embroidered on either side of the banners. The banners were assembled in two rows overhead following the path up to the throne. The throne itself was solid silver. Draped from the back of it, falling over the front of the backrest on down to the floor was another smaller banner. In the middle of the backrest where the banner was strewn was another Leonite head. This one was silver and was a different face altogether. It resembled the current Emperor. Emperor Draeson.
The guards closed in on the throne and just before they met the steps leading up to it they took a turn to the right and went through a door tucked in the corner. As they filed in Kurig took notice of the large wooden table in the middle of a much smaller room than what they had just been in. Of the dozens of visits to the palace this room was never shown to him. Around the table sat the Emperor, the High Commander and five other men of the hierarchy. All were dressed in the finest of clothing, save it be the High Commander who wore his skin.
As the men finished entering the room the door was closed and all was silent. Kurig and the other guards stood along one of the longer walls so that all the hierarchy could see them.
"We welcome you to this audience." The Emperor addressed the guards. Kurig was astonished by how young the Emperor was. He was certain that he couldn't be that much older than himself. The color of his fur also took him by surprise. Ever since he could remember the imperial family had always been of golden fur. When he was young he used to lose himself in awe at the emperor's golden fur. He remembered it being nearly as glorious as the golden armor of the guards surrounding him, but Draeson did not share that trait. As if Emperor Draeson wasn't already peculiar to him, he took note that the mane was only grown from behind his ears and then blossomed under his jaw.
Kurig realized then, that he had not seen the Emperor in person to this point. It had only been eight months since he was made Emperor and his father before him passed away due to illness. His father had been very flamboyant and threw festive parties monthly that brought all the people together. Draeson couldn't be further from the festive type. He avoided the public's eye for almost all of his life; he would stay within the palace walls at all times and preferred only the company of his family. Most thought him to be disturbed and they were probably right, but despite it all he was actually very well spoken and was a revered tactician after planning out several battles in the war and winning those battles handedly. All without leaving the palace itself. He was meticulous in his plans and knew every detail going into a battle. From the amount of arrows the archers of a legion would have, to the types of armor his enemies would be wearing. It was all collected and stored deep within his crooked, and misunderstood, mind.
Despite what Kurig thought of the Emperor, his many differences in character didn't seem to have any effect on his overall ability to carry on after his father. In fact, he had the confidence of ten emperors regardless of his appearance and his lack of public admiration. When he spoke he held his chin high and every word was injected with charisma. He didn't seem to be a disliked person, but the hierarchy had a look on their faces that implied they didn't want to draw his attention. It was fear that sunk in their souls and seeped from their eyes. Draeson was a man to fear, and that was something Kurig took particular note of.
The Emperor continued, "We're extremely pleased to see such fine warriors in the Citadel Guard. All of you have proven yourself worthy of joining the ranks of the Imperial. Which is my privilege to bestow upon you at this time. From now till the endless dark takes you, I grant all of you the position of Imperial guard. I have spoken it and so it shall be done." None of the guards made any movement nor did they speak. They continued looking forward in silence. To Kurig though it was a bitter sweet announcement. Yes, he did very much desire to be a part of the Imperial Guard, but this seemed... lackluster to say the least. It wasn't a ceremony and it wasn't even much of a declaration either. It seemed more like another days item on the list to check off and do so as soon as possible. It's probably for the best if he stay hidden in the palace if this is all we get for ceremony.
"You've trained them well captain. I applaud the discipline."
"Thank you sire." Their captain replied quickly but remained as still as the others.
"Now, to discuss other matters." Emperor Draeson began addressing each member of the hierarchy discussing different matters according to the position that member held. Together the hierarchy went through every area of the empire, from finances to royal banquets. It went on for several hours before finally the Emperor addressed the High Commander.
"Lastly, I believe there's something you want to tell me Laetos?" The High Commander froze for a moment. He could only close his eyes for a brief moment before the Emperor asked again.
"Well, High Commander? Go on. Tell me." His voice began to take on a hostility that took Kurig by surprise. He slid his chair out and made his way slowly around the table and came to a stop in front of the High Commander. Delaying no further he finally replied, "Yes, your excellence. There is news. I was hoping to spare you the annoyance, as this is distasteful news."
"Clever choice of words Laetos, very clever. Yes, I suppose that is how I'd describe losing four of my Imperial Guard, and the most valuable possession the Empire had in Kamas The Black." Laetos never met the Emperor's stone-like glare. The Emperor on the outside didn't look angry or upset, in fact he looked almost cheery, but his tone told another story. It was full of condescension and stung like a wasp as it left his lips. Losing his patience the Emperor slammed his fist on the table creating a loud thud then yelled, "Where is my prisoner!?" The rest of the table jumped slightly in reaction. Several members shifted uneasily in their chairs, sneaking nervous glances at Laetos.
"He escaped sire. One of the guards that pursued him returned with the news just hours ago. I apologize for not informing you sooner, and we are doing all we can to apprehend him." Laetos looked genuinely afraid as he looked up to the Emperor. The Emperor stood silently in front of him. He didn't say anything for a moment, he just looked at Laetos. It made Kurig feel uneasy yet again, as if he could feel any more uncomfortable.
"Aside from my prisoner escaping, we have another equally large problem. Don't we Laetos?" The High Commander looked confused now.
"I don't quite follow you sire."
"Mmm. Well only one of our guards returned from the Ascended Forest correct?" The High Commander nodded.
"Then where are the rest of my men?"
"Dead sire."
"Yeeeees. Dead. Who killed them Laetos?" The High Commander looked embarrassed now as several chuckles were heard from members of the hierarchy. Laetos shot the last person to do so a sharp glance, then answered.
"Jacon said it was a clansman."
"Exactly!" The Emperor yet again slammed the table with his fist, and repeatedly did so with smaller thuds as he spoke.
"An ape, a filthy ape, has killed a Leonite. Don't you think that warrants some action old friend?"
"Indeed sire. I can assemble an emissary to visit the clans home and discuss handing over the foul beasts that did this."
"No. I should have taken that infernal forest when I had the chance." That piqued the interest of the entire room as every member of the hierarchy turned to face the Emperor. Before, none dared make eye contact for fear that he'd take his rage out on them in place of the High Commander. Even Laetos drew his attention from the table top to the Emperor.
"I'm not sure I follow." He said.
"I want that ape's head served hot on a silver platter, is that clear enough? In fact, I want that entire confounded forest to burn!"
"Sire please, we just exited a war with the clans. Peace was made and we've been able to live separate of each other for years now. It's not worth the loss of thousands." Emperor Draeson sneered at him.
"Don't you even begin to tell me what's worth it or not! I will tell you what's what, do you understand?"
"Of course sire, but.." Laetos tried to speak but was cutoff yet again by the Emperor.
"Not another word Laetos. Not. Another. Word. You will assemble the legions and you will prepare my people for war. Understood?" The High Commander looked distraught himself. He stayed silent for a moment then finally responded to the Emperor.
"Yes, your majesty. However, as the military adviser for not just you but also this entire hierarchy, I find it extremely necessary to take proper security precautions. So because of this, I will be appointing myself a new personal guard. I advise everyone at this table to do so, and I would be happy to make the selections if you see it fit." The other hierarchy members nodded and whispered in agreement. The Emperor lost his intense demeanor and seemed to relax a bit as he replied.
"Tis a good suggestion. Go and pick out some Imperial Guards and be on with the real matters of the empire. Namely my war!" The Emperor turned away and walked toward one of the doors exiting the room. Laetos rose from his seat slowly.
"Thank you sire, but I'll be picking mine from this fine lot of guards. You there, what's your name?" He said jutting his chin toward the line of guards.
"Kurig. My name is Kurig sir." Came the disciplined voice. The Emperor stopped just short of his exit and turned back to the room. He shifted his gaze from the line of guards to the High Commander who was now standing, watching the Emperor closely. He scoffed slightly, "So be it Laetos, it is your life not mine." With that he left the room and Kurig was yet again shocked and dismayed and ready to retreat for the rest of the day and let his mind and emotions rest.
