Vaid Empire: Conquest
Chapter 3
17th of Onis, 5 BVE.
Lower Human Basin, East of Nitri.
Dominax held his hand out, igniting a flame in his palm that burnt away the encircling darkness. His flickering light illuminated the interior of the strange pod, revealing that it consisted of a single spacious chamber made of the same pure white metal from the exterior. Yet unlike the exterior, it’s walls were curved into a more circular shape, topped with a high domed ceiling that he could hardly make out through the oppressive darkness. The floor was decorated with a massive symbol that he hadn’t encountered before, vaguely in the shape of a crescent moon.
A thin pedestal began to rise from the center of the floor, sticking out into the empty space of the room. Waist high, a strange orb sat atop its peak.
With careful steps, he approached the pedestal. To see an object move without the assistance of man was mystifying, yet its strangeness was null compared to the item it presented. The translucent spherical orb was as dark as the void of space, yet it erupted into thousands of different specs of color as the light from his flame shined through. Though it was small enough to be concealed using two hands Dominax felt a dizzying depth as he peered into it, as if someone had stolen a piece of reality and condensed it into a ball.
With a glimmer of desire in his silver eyes, he slowly reached out towards the strange object with his free hand. Yet before his fingers could brush its surface, he instinctively shot his arm up into a defensive position when the image of a larger sphere projected above the orb, wider than a grown man could wrap his arms around. Dominax slowly lowered his guard, examining the semitransparent globe. Glowing slightly, he could see oceans, rivers, and mountains, yet he recognized none of it.
“What sorcery is this?” he asked, waving his hand through the projection.
“Uuuu iiii oouu” a sound whispered quietly inside his mind in what could only be described as a light vibration. It was as if the orb itself was communicating with him, though even stranger, he understood its intentions. As if delivering pure data directly into his brain he suddenly looked at the globe in understanding.
“How…can this be…?” he asked himself, staring at the projection in pure astonishment. As possibly the first human in history to do so, Dominax looked upon a map of the entire world. With one massive continent facing him, he had to squint to recognize practically anything that he was familiar with. All of their maps and all of their travels amounted to practically nothing.
The projection flickered, before disappearing entirely. “Wait…no! Come back!” he cried out in his deep voice, looking at the orb in panic.
Though his fire lightly illuminated the chamber, all color instantly drained away from his surroundings. The flame seemingly froze in place, as if time itself had stopped. Dominax tried to move and realized once again that he had left his frozen body, just as he had during the slaughter. He stepped fully out of his physical form, feeling deeply unsettled and confused as he looked upon himself.
“Dominax….” a low, weak voice echoed quietly through the chamber. He quickly turned to his right, only to be met with the presence of the ghostly figure of the cloaked stranger who had saved him.
“Who…what are you?” Dominax asked, taking a step backwards as he readied himself for a fight.
The figure slowly approached him, his steps making no sound on the cold metal floor. He stopped when he was a mere four feet away from Dominax, granting him a better view of his hooded face. He appeared FAR older than he had during their first encounter, with wispy white hair and deep wrinkles. A black robe concealed his elderly body under his cloak, slightly dragging on the floor. Yet the feature that delivered Dominax a tingle of unease was the man’s silver eyes, matching his own nearly identically.
The man slowly began to reach out with both hands. “Come…let me look upon you…”
Dominax eyed the man suspiciously, standing firm as he studied the cloaked figure. He was three inches taller than the stranger, forcing his ghostly fingers to reach up at a slight angle as they sought out his face. Yet as both wrinkled hands met his skin, he felt…nothing, as if he hadn’t actually touched him at all.
“Look how much you’ve…grown…” the stranger muttered in what was nearly a whisper.
With caution, Dominax slowly attempted to grab the figure’s wrists to pull the transparent appendages away yet was disturbed to discover that his fingers simply passed through the figure as if he was nothing more than an illusion.
“Do not be frightened…child…” the man said, his fingers shaking as he pulled them away. His voice was low and strained, as if the man could only conjure it through great effort.
“Yet you’ve failed to answer my question,” Dominax replied with visible wariness. “Who are you?”
A small grin began to creep across the man’s face. Or rather, if he actually was a man, instead of some decrepit demon. “Child…I no longer possess the…need for a name. Though if you must know, I was once…called Dorian…”
As the words oozed from the figure’s old mouth, an inkling of familiarity tugged at Dominax’s memory before a strange realization stabbed him abruptly. “Dorian…or Doriin?” he asked carefully, the monumental implications of his question sinking in. Though nearly every Chiefdom throughout The Human Basin held differing beliefs regarding the origin of the world, nearly all contained some variation of the name Doriin.
“Ah…yes, Dorian…Doriin…Dirian…Darian…all have been used to refer to…me,” he replied, confirming Dominax’s suspicions.
As if looking at the strange translucent figure through new eyes, Dominax suddenly felt a surge of importance radiating from the man. Dominax hadn’t simply confronted some childhood ghost, but rather if their legends were correct, he had been lured to the very creator of the world. He felt as though he should wish to throw himself at the feet of this strange being, to utterly praise the man. Yet, the urge to bow remained elusive to him, absent from his mind. Only the weak bowed, even to a God.
When Dominax didn’t answer, Dorian gave a gentle nod. “I…understand that you may be…overwhelmed with such a revelation…” he began in his usual strained voice. “Yet time is of…importance. Even here…where my power should be at its…strongest, I can barely reveal myself. I…severely damaged my power…when I rescued you…”
“An act that still confuses me,” Dominax replied, thinking back to the slaughter of Nitri. There had been no doubt in his mind that he was about to die, yet the stranger had granted him just enough reaction time to escape his fate. “Why choose to save me?”
With a kind smile, Dorian’s silver eyes seemed to slightly glow as he answered. “How could I not save…my own child…”
The revelation hit him like a fist to the gut, and Dominax had to take a step backwards to put some distance between himself and the strange man. “That’s…impossible…”
Dorian held out his hands in a calming gesture. “Do not be alarmed…my child.”
Though his mind whirled, Dominax snapped out of his thoughts to deliver an insidious glare. “Alarmed? You not only claim to be the creator of the world, but my father as well. Yet you dissuade me from being Alarmed?” His voice contained more bafflement than anger, still processing the implications of such information. “Why should I trust even a single word of it in any case?”
The ghostly figure nodded in understanding, before slowly waving his hand. As he did so, a faint glowing rope of pure white began to reveal itself, extending between them. Though virtually no visual indicator existed, Dominax instinctively felt as though Dorian was the source of the strange rope-like beam with Dominax at the end, as if somehow sensing the nature of the connection.
“There is more to conception…than mere blood,” Dorian began to explain, gesturing to the beam as it hung between them. “Parents give up a piece of their soul…to create their child. A literal line exists between them…connecting them across time…and space. Concentrate, and you will see…the truth of my claim…”
Too intrigued to refuse, Dominax focused his attention on the ethereal line between them. Within moments, it was as if he had received information directly from it, understanding its purpose entirely. The undeniable bond between father and son was directly in front of him, absolute proof of the man’s statement. “How is this even possible?” he questioned, the unmistakable look of ambition in his silver eyes.
“In time…I will teach you,” Dorian struggled to say, seemingly fighting to continue speaking. “Though it is unimportant…for now. I must…rest…and regain my power.”
The glow in Dominax’s eyes disappeared as his face dropped into a look of disappointment. “No, you cannot go yet, I must know more! Tell me, Dorian, the purpose of my birth. Tell me why I was created, why I was gifted with these…powers!” His voice was low, though demanding. He had always known that he was meant for something greater than a life as a simple warrior of an insignificant settlement. Born with abilities that none had encountered before, he had been certain that there had been a reason for his existence. Yet now the possibility to learn the answers he had always yearned for was in his grasp.
“Purpose?” the old man asked in a confused voice, before a look of realization overtook his features. “Ah…I see. I found your mother on the eve of…approximately one thousand years…since the creation of this world, Ayphieal. I refrained from any interference…for a sufficient amount of time…to allow events and decisions of its inhabitants to occur…naturally. I wished to see what my creations would do…without my guiding hand. Only then did I allow…my vanity to take hold, giving into…my desire to produce an heir to my power.”
A silence filled the chamber as Dorian paused, allowing his words to fully sink in.
He then continued, though his tone shifted to one of sadness as if the memory particularly pained him. “I brought your mother to my ship…and granted her my seed. Throughout her pregnancy…I cared for her, gifting her all of my…knowledge, knowing she would…one day train you. Yet after your birth, I sent her back to the surface…in the pod you stand in now.”
With a wave of Dorian’s hand, the orb’s hologram of the planet reactivated. “She wished…to spread her new knowledge…to every corner of Ayphieal,” he said, gesturing to the large globe. “Your settlement elders, however, rejected her explanation…of their origins. They executed her…in front of the entire village…”
The mention of his mother’s drowning brought a sharp pain of anger to Dominax’s chest, causing him to clench his fists.
“They…KILLED her…for the truth she spoke,” Dorian continued, sounding genuinely devastated at the loss. “I could do nothing…except watch her die. It was only her wisdom…in placing you in the care of Cendra…that spared your life. Had the elders known you were…of her blood, they…would have cast you into the river.”
“Then their foolishness only increases. She offered them the truth, and they rejected it. If only she could have seen their slaughter at the hands of the Zilrinians,” Dominax replied, his words dripping with disgust. Yet despite the anger that Dorian’s explanation delivered him, he began to feel his respect for Cendra increasing. She had risked her life to save him, knowing that the revelation of his true parentage would earn her a swift death. She had raised him, spreading a false narrative amongst their people about simply adopting an unspecified friend’s child. The thought of her loss was suddenly brought to the forefront of his mind, and he had to grit his teeth to suppress his emotions.
“Yet their actions gifted me…a realization,” Dorian said, continuing. “As your mother drowned…any ambition I possessed for your future…died with her. I nearly lost you…” the old man said, his voice quivering nearly imperceptibly. “You ask what your purpose is, and so I will…give it to you. Live…your life.”
The simplicity of the statement was anything but what Dominax had expected. He had envisioned grandiose designs thought up by the ancient mind of a God, plans that would echo across the world. Yet instead, all he received was…this? “Live my life?” the younger man asked with contempt.
Dorian nodded, ignoring the clear hostility. “Find a woman, settle…down. Perhaps even start a family. Just…live in peace. I only wish for you…to be happy.”
“A simple life?” Dominax repeated, as if bitterly tasting the words.
“That is my wish for you. Find…peace. There is far too much death in this world. The pod…will protect you. Use it. The orb…contains instructions on creating highly durable steel, of which this very pod…is constructed. Use it and sell whatever you manage to…forge. It’ll bring you enough wealth for a comfortable life, safe…from the world’s horrors.”
The chamber once again went silent as Dominax processed his words. The request was intriguing, a way to prevent himself from ever being forced to experience anything similar to the Nitri slaughter. A way to prevent himself from suffering the loss of any further loved one. Yet as each benefit flowed through his mind, there was one problem that continually made itself known to him as he turned his silver eyes towards the holographic globe. One confliction that refused to free him from its grip. “You ask me to live a simple life, one of peace and comfort. An existence that any ordinary man would eagerly accept. Yet…I am no ordinary man. My answer is no.”
“No?” Dorian replied with an expression of shock, clearly not expecting such a blunt answer.
“No,” the younger man repeated, his voice firm as his eyes remained locked on the large representation of the planet. “You request that I live a simple life, and I say no. For too long I’ve allowed inferior men to act as rulers. For too long I’ve sat back, concealing my powers while this world is torn apart by conflict. I did nothing to avenge my mother, and I did nothing as The Elders put us in a position to be attacked.”
“My son…The Elders of your village are dead. Whatever vengeance you seek to achieve…has already been inflicted upon them.”
“Ah, but vengeance has never been at the forefront of my desire, and that remains true even now. Yes, The Elders are dead, but they were merely a small piece of the problem. This world you’ve created, one where leaders fight each other for control, is wrought with chaos. Merely five days ago I had a settlement and a family. Now, only a few lucky survivors remain.”
Dorian observed the young man with curiosity, listening to his passionate words.
“This can no longer be allowed,” Dominax said as he reached out, as if grasping the immaterial globe. “I will take this world, and I will give it order. I will inflict my will into every part of it. No longer will civilizations clash over petty disagreements. No longer will people live their lives in fear, wondering when the next attack will strike. No longer will chaos thrive,” he stated as his eyes began to slightly glow. There. He had said it. The very thing he had desired for as long as he could remember, placed out into the open for only a God to judge.
Dorian folded his ghostly arms, choosing his next words carefully. “If this is the path you choose…you are asking me to sit by…and watch you risk your life in an attempt to do…the impossible.”
He nodded somberly. “I am, Dorian. You are my progenitor, my blood. I would not exist without you. You’ve granted me these abilities, this power, yet you request that I do nothing with them. I…can’t, not anymore.”
Throwing his hand out loosely in a gesture of bewilderment, it was Dorian’s turn to disagree. “They will allow you to protect yourself…and your family! That’s FAR…from nothing!”
Dominax stroked his short beard. “Though the fact remains that you desire me to live happily, correct?”
The translucent being nodded in confirmation.
“This potential life you’ve illustrated, one where I live as a simple man. I…” Dominax began, searching for the correct words. “I do not wish to live as others do. I desire…to rule. If I cannot, if I must spend my life among ordinary beings…then the elders may as well have thrown me into the river alongside my mother.”
A long silence filled the surrounding air, the world around them remaining paused. Dominax had been outside of his body for so long that he hardly even noticed, the strange colorless existence swiftly becoming natural to him.
When Dorian finally spoke, he kept his voice low and calm. “What you seek…will be difficult. You’re in the most decentralized area,” he explained, gesturing to The Lower Human Basin on the globe. “Other areas have formed kingdoms, even…empires, yet your people still fight as tribes.”
An insidious grin formed on Dominax’s lips. “Ah, but you miss the advantage. Tribes are far easier to subjugate than empires. I shall consolidate surrounding Chiefdoms through conquest, amassing a force strong enough to consume the continent.”
The tired eyes of the godly entity seemed to dim somewhat, as he looked upon his son’s ambitious form. “Is this what you…truly desire, my child?”
Dominax’s eyes seemed to glow with increased intensity as he turned to gaze at the vast globe. “More than you can possibly imagine.”
“Then…I will not deny you,” Dorian reluctantly agreed, his ghostly form barely visible. “Yet be warned. I no longer possess the…strength to save you. You…are on…your own…”
“That is a risk I am willing to accept. To die as a ruler shall always be preferable over living as a common man.”
Dorian looked at the younger male, clearly pondering. Whatever opinion he now held of his son, he gave no voice to. “Then go. We…will speak again soon…though I…must rest. Goodbye for now…my boy…”
Dominax watched the figure slowly fade from existence before he was suddenly returned to his body. The abrupt transition was disorienting, causing him to stumble slightly. The beam connecting them had vanished from sight, yet he could sense that its presence remained.
Only a moment passed to allow himself to readjust before he picked up the alien-like orb. It felt cold against his bare fingers, yet he could feel something more. Something…powerful, deep inside of it.
Dominax turned to leave the chamber, exiting through the doorway he had entered by using an exact copy of the outside hand scanner. The outside light was overwhelming as he stepped through, pausing to allow his eyes to adjust before stepping through the doorway. As he did so, he felt as though he had been changed in a way, relieved of a deep weight. He had revealed his deepest desires, and now nothing would dissuade him from seeking them out.
A simple warrior had entered the pod, though a future emperor had emerged.
***
16th of Twic, 5 BVE.
Lower Human Basin, East of Nitri.
In the month that followed, the small group of nearly one hundred Nitri survivors had settled down around the pod, building a camp with only the most basic defenses. Though it could hardly be considered a settlement quite yet, Dominax had affectionately named the camp Domani after himself.
In addition to the benefit of the nearby river, the large clearing surrounding them consisted of mostly flat land, granting them ample room to spread out and grow in the future. A location that fit his plans well, as Domani would need to expand considerably to meet Dominax’s goals.
The reluctance to settle down away from their ancestral home continued to linger amongst a few members of their new camp, though Dominax had placed his attention elsewhere. For several hours each day he studied the strange orb from the pod’s chamber, hungry for its secrets. Dorian’s claims concerning the fact that the ball contained information had been true, as Dominax eagerly attempted to pierce its depths. Though it communicated only in its bizarre vibrating language he continued to understand whatever it broadcasted into his mind, allowing him to navigate its contents simply through thought.
Within the first few attempts to coax out its secrets, he had learned of the process required to forge the white metal that covered the pod. With a simple iron dagger taken from their incredibly limited stockpile, he showered the blade in both his electricity and flame. With only the exact amount of intensity being capable of transforming the metal, it slowly turned black over several grueling minutes as he struggled to retain his concentration. From the information he had absorbed, Dominax knew that the metal would slowly become stronger the darker it became. Then, an instant after the blade had turned as black as the void of space, it suddenly shifted pure white, allowing him to cease his efforts. It would now be nearly impossible to reshape the dagger, as it had reached its peak strength.
Though this newfound advantage wasn’t all he had discovered, as mere days after forging the dagger he had forced the orb to inform him of the source of his cloak’s unique material. Among the warped and multicolored grass encircling the pod, several small plants with white stems and black leaves stood under a foot tall. Each had several rose-like appendages, producing an odd silky material. Woven together, the silk produced a very resilient fabric that was capable of resisting fire and regulating temperature.
Immediately, Dominax had ordered a few of the non-combat experienced survivors to gather the strange plants, which they quickly named Chimira flowers, to begin farming them nearby. Meanwhile, the rest of the group remained busy by building simple defenses and huts, while others hunted for food.
Only when he felt that his people were stable enough to endure his absence did he begin to plan their retaliation. They had virtually no chance of conquering the Zilrinians on their own, though an option quickly presented itself as Dominax studied the damaged maps of the surrounding land. They allowed him to see the general location of nearby Chiefdoms, while the holographic globe provided him with detailed knowledge regarding the surrounding landscape. The deceased Elders of Nitri had been foolish enough to ignore the necessity of allies, a mistake that Dominax refused to repeat.
From information gathered before the slaughter, Dominax knew that the Chiefdom of Omrin was less than friendly towards the Zilrinians, making them prime candidates for an alliance. He had informed his people of his intentions to travel south and make contact with Omrin, though with no intention of leaving their newly formed camp undefended. Therefore, he had selected only Clin, Salduin, and Hesin to accompany him, with the intention of sending for the remaining warriors when the time was right to attack.
The trio had been the only ones to speak up during his seizure of command, placing them above the rest of the group in Dominax’s mind. The others had simply given themselves over to him, neither voicing specific support nor descent. It was only right that they obeyed him, as it appeared evident to him that simple-minded beings must serve the strong. Yet, they were only pawns. If he were to be successful in his ambitions, he’d require input from a select group of individuals worthy of advising him. Clin, Salduin, and Hesin contained potential, and Dominax wished to assess their usefulness.
“I’m not sure how I feel about you traveling in such a small group,” Briza confessed, standing in the center of their large tent as Dominax prepared his supplies. He had allowed no one else inside of the pod, choosing instead to sleep with both Briza and Xenia inside of the largest tent that had been constructed.
“At the very least I should be allowed to accompany you,” Xenia added, folding her arms. Days after their first riverside lovemaking Dominax had explained the situation to Briza, allowing both women to openly embrace their position as his lovers. Though it had been awkward in the beginning, they had come to accept the arrangement as Xenia concealed her ill intentions toward her female rival. “It would be wise to bring a healer along.”
Dominax finished preparing, straightening up as he turned to address the two women. “Perhaps, though it is far wiser for you to remain here and assist the rest of the camp,” he said, slinging a satchel of provisions over one shoulder. The heavily damaged chest plate concealed the top portion of his black tunic, while his crudely patched up white cloak hung from his shoulders. “In any case, I require both of you to manage the group in my absence. If all goes according to plan, we won’t be apart for long.”
“You’d better be right, because I’m not having this baby without you,” Briza remarked, placing one hand on her hip and the other on her athletic midriff.
Neither woman had begun to show, yet their pregnancies were undeniable. Even if they had ignored the subtle signs indicating conception, Dominax had managed to follow the orb’s instructions and glimpse the spiritual ties between himself and his two unborn children.
The knowledge that they were both carrying his offspring had led to less than gentle lovemaking, his desire nearly insatiable regarding their fertilized bodies. Yet while both women had given themselves eagerly to his touch, he hadn’t yet involved them together. Such an intimate act would have to wait.
“It’s certainly a risk, though whatever the outcome, trust that I will not fail. You must simply do your part when I send word to attack,” Dominax stated, thinking back to his plans. Though he would certainly promise the Chief of Omrin to send for his warriors to join the attack on Zilrin, the Chief may be surprised by his actual intentions.
“We’ll attack Omrin while their warriors are away under your command, just as you ordered,” Xenia acknowledged with an ambitious smile.
Dominax gave a quick nod. “Then all is prepared. The next time we meet I won’t simply be a Chief, but a High Chief.”
***
Taking only the bare essentials, Dominax, Clin, Salduin, and Hesin set off towards Omrin. Lacking both Lixidion mounts and a boat, they were forced to travel on foot. Yet despite the fact that their journey would take them a greater distance than their exodus from Nitri, they were able to cover far more ground each hour without the burden of leading the group of survivors.
“Salduin, may I ask you something?” Clin politely inquired as they trudged through the vibrantly green forest.
The large man nodded, his stature calm as he seemingly basked in their momentarily tranquil surroundings.
“How can you possibly find peace in these circumstances?” the blonde-haired warrior asked in genuine curiosity. “You appear as calm as you had before the attack, despite the fact that we may be marching towards our deaths.”
“The better question is how aren’t you able to?” Salduin replied, before gesturing to the surrounding foliage with his heavily muscled arms. “The very definition of life surrounds us. I simply listen to the nearby animals and insects, knowing that we are but one part of nature.”
“Yes, it’s quite beautiful,” Hesin interjected with notable sarcasm. “Especially when monstrous creatures pounce from the foliage to maul us.” His cloak’s hood remained pulled over his head despite the absence of rain.
Salduin held up a thick finger, eager to retort the statement. “That is possible, though you must train yourself to cast such thoughts aside. Yet in any case, one shouldn’t fear death, as it is merely a natural stage of life.”
The answer seemed to displease both Hesin and Clin, though it was Dominax who spoke up. “Three thousand new Graves in Nitri would disagree with you,” he replied, gritting his teeth as an image of Cendra’s bleeding body flashed through his mind. “Though I don’t plan on meeting my end until I’ve quenched my ambitions.”
“You may not get a choice in that,” Salduin stated, his voice sturdy but calm. “The slaughter of our people was a tragedy to be sure, though I’m certain that they are all at peace now.”
Under his hood Hesin made a scornful expression. “Give me life over peace any day. Though I am curious as to where your little obsession with life and death originated from.”
The large man suddenly appeared to be reluctant to carry on the conversation, in stark contrast to his eager explanations. A long moment of silence passed before Salduin finally provided the group with a response. “Perhaps one day in the future I will explain all you’d like to know, though now is not the time.”
None of the other warriors seemed willing to disagree with the muscled man while Dominax led them in stern silence.
***
Deep into their first night, the group was awoken by loud cries of anguish originating from Clin. They all quickly jumped up from their simple bedrolls, sprinting to their companion’s location.
Clin had settled down a few meters away from the group, just far enough that his screams were slightly muffled by the trees. Dominax reached him within seconds, pulling the cloak off the man’s body and preparing his white knife to stab any creature that had slipped under it to bite the blonde. Yet oddly enough, he saw nothing that could be causing the warrior any pain.
Realizing that Clin’s eyes were actually still shut, Salduin reached down and roughly shook the man, waking him from his sleep. Clin’s screams ceased instantly as his eyes flew open in confusion.
“What’s happening?!” the blonde warrior asked in panic, beads of sweat dripping down his face.
They looked down at him in bafflement, before Salduin replied. “You were screaming!”
In his disoriented state it took several seconds before a look of realization spread across Clin’s face. “Ah, I had hoped that we’d at least reach Omrin before this happened,” he stated in an apologetic tone, though when they continued to stare at him in confusion he continued. “I apologize if I disturbed you, though there’s nothing to be concerned about. I suffer from…unspeakable nightmares every few nights, which is why I’ve taken the precaution of distancing myself.”
Dominax peered down at his companion, rising to his full height. “That is…peculiar.”
Clin nodded understandingly. “Yes, I didn’t want to unsettle you, though I can assure you that they won’t hinder my effectiveness in battle.”
Standing on the other side of Clin, Hesin gave a subtle grin at the man’s explanations, an expression that didn’t escape Dominax’s notice. The young Chief had known of the two warriors’ turbulent past before setting out towards Omrin, though the origin of their mutual dislike had remained elusive. Now, seeing the hooded man secretly take pleasure in Clin’s suffering made him wonder if he had made a mistake in bringing both of them along.
Yet momentarily satisfied with Clin’s explanation, Dominax ordered his companions back to sleep. Whatever the cause of their rivalry could be delt with at a later time, as conquest loomed over Dominax’s mind.
***
17th of Twic, 5 BVE.
Lower Human Basin, Omrin.
The two lookouts atop the North gate to Omrin hummed quietly, scanning the surrounding tree line for danger as the sun hung just above the horizon.
“Why does it take so long for the night watch to get here?” the left guard asked in annoyance. In the hours of his watch, he had taken to tossing small pieces of stone from one hand to the other to ease his boredom. Many of his rough pebbles had haphazardly fallen to the ground below through his carelessness, only to be swiftly replaced by snapping off more small pieces of the nearly crumbling wall that surrounded the entirety of Omrin.
The right guard let out a tired chuckle. “Patience, the day is almost over. Besides, I’m just as eager as you are. My woman has been awaiting my return all day, and I’d give a finger to be able to leave now and slip between those soft thighs…”
Tossing his latest pebble over the side of the wall, the left guard rubbed his eyes in exhaustion. “I don’t mean to complain, though everyone knows that Chief Korvis has his attention aimed to the East. Histia is far more likely to attack than Zilrin, and I just feel like we aren’t of much use right now.”
Opening his mouth to reply, the right guard’s attention was suddenly pulled towards the tree line. “Wait…someone’s coming,” he announced as four individuals cautiously approached on foot.
“Stop and state your business!” the left guard ordered as the men neared, as was common practice for any unexpected guests. The occurrence was far from unusual, as multiple individuals throughout the day had sought entry. Whether a trader, ambassador, or simply a citizen of one of the lesser settlements under Omrin’s control, all had to first offer an explanation to the guards.
The apparent leader, a man wearing a white cloak, spoke in a firm voice. “I am Chief Dominax of the remnants of Nitri, and I must speak to Chief Korvis about an urgent matter!”
“Nitri has no Chief!” the right guard countered, attempting to assess the group of four. “A council of Elders rules over their tiny settlement!”
Folding his arms, Dominax glared at the guards. “Things have changed. Now, are you going to waste my time further, or may I bring Korvis an offer of great importance?”
A moment of silence passed as the two guards considered the request together, before signaling to have the gate opened.
“Very good. I’m sure Korvis will be pleased to know that his men acted accordingly,” Dominax announced as he and his companions entered the large settlement.
“We’re sending an escort of warriors to accompany you to The Main Hold,” one of the gate guards explained as several warriors moved to walk alongside the group.
Several minutes of walking passed before they reached their destination, passing a large number of huts and wooden buildings. Omrin was nearly double the size that Nitri had been, though it was the first time that any of the four warriors had stepped foot inside its gates. Yet even as he surveyed the surrounding buildings in the fading twilight, Dominax reminded himself that Omrin was nothing more than an average settlement. There were many other Chiefdoms that beat Omrin in both size and population, though it would be one of the first steps in his aims.
The Main Hold, located near the center of the settlement, consisted of a large circular building made of crude stone with several wooden rooms extending from its base that appeared to be recent additions.
led through the entrance, the group emerged into a large chamber that took up nearly all of the stone portion of the building. Circular in shape, the room held a throne carved from wood against the far wall, holding up the frame of a large overweight man. Undoubtedly Korvis, he had long braided brown hair that ran over his bare chest. His beard reached his swollen belly, which rested heavily on his legs. He wore only a greenish skirt that extended from his waist to his knees, concealing his lap.
Several guests lined the rounded walls, chatting loudly about various subjects as they milled around small tables holding cooked meats and fruits. Korvis simply stroked his beard as he lounged in his carved seat, his attention held by a slave who danced seductively before his throne. Wooden carvings of his past accomplishments hung from the walls, representing a far younger and muscular Korvis than his current form. The once formidable warrior had grown fat and complacent, content with his place as Chief.
Dominax approached the throne, though he did not join his companions in a bow.
“Ah, a new face in my hold!” Korvis exclaimed as he gestured for the slave to step aside, though his eyes narrowed as they locked onto the younger man. “Though it seems your knees must ache from your travels.”
“I am Chief Dominax, leader of the last of Nitri’s survivors. Though I will not kneel, I bring you something far greater…an offer,” he replied, his silver eyes matching the sitting man’s gaze as he stood over him.
Korvis continued to stroke his beard, looking over each of his new guests before returning his attention to Dominax. “An offer from Nitri? I have received reports from my scouts that your settlement had been destroyed, though it seems that your presence here is proof of this terrible fact.”
“The Zilrinians attacked us without warning,” Dominax confirmed with a hardened expression as his mind quickly relived the events of the slaughter. “In the end, only three hundred of our warriors remained,” the lie slipped smoothly from his lips, inflating the number.
“Most concerning…” Korvis replied after a moment. “Though that still leaves the question as to why you have sought me out. What offer could the Chief of only a few hundred possibly provide me?”
Dominax subtly gritted his teeth, though removed the white dagger from his belt. The movement caused a few nearby guards to instinctively prepare themselves to defend their leader, though he turned the hilt of the small blade towards the Chief.
Staring at the strange white metal in curiosity Korvis accepted the small weapon, carefully taking it from Dominax’s grasp. “I’ve…never seen any material even remotely similar…what is it?”
“Think of it as an offer of friendship between our two groups,” Dominax replied, watching the older Chief study the blade with complete interest. “I’ve taken to calling the material ‘Chimira Steel’, and I can assure you that you’ll see far more of its use if we combine our strength.”
The statement snapped Chief Korvis’s attention away from the blade, as he returned his gaze to Dominax. “Combine our strength? You wish to join The Omrin Chiefdom?”
Dominax shook his head, expecting the question. “Join? No. Rather, I’d see our forces combined in a temporary alliance, long enough to see the destruction of those who took everything from my people.”
A glimmer of understanding showed in Korvis’s eyes as he leaned back in his wooden throne. “Ah, you propose what I’ve long since sought after, an end to our Zilrinian neighbors.”
“It would benefit Omrin tremendously, as we’d gladly allow you to take the spoils and land from our victory,” Dominax lied as he granted the older Chief a calm smile. “My people and I merely wish to see the Zilrinians punished for the deaths of our families and friends. You will of course be compensated with additional weapons made of Chimira Steel, though only after Chief Manith lays dead at my feet.”
Taking a moment to consider his words, Korvis gave an inquisitive look at his guest. “That certainly sounds promising, though tell me, why should I commit my warriors to conquering Zilrin when we are already preparing to defend against Histia? Not to mention the horrific reputation of Chief Manith, of which I’m sure I don’t have to inform you of.”
Dominax looked at the carvings of the once great man as he spoke. “Yes, you could bide your time until Histia makes their move, even as we are both aware of their superior numbers. Or rather, you could utilize the required boost offered by my people to defeat The Zilrinians, which will in turn allow you to overcome the Histians. There is no other logical option.”
The older Chief pondered the statement for several seconds, before finally offering his answer. “You make an intriguing point, Chief Dominax, as I’m inclined to agree. Yet before I do, I must make a request. If I am to allow you to set out with my warriors, I’d like for my son Fildir to accompany you. The boy must learn what it means to command men in battle.”
“That shouldn’t be a problem,” Dominax replied before holding out his hand towards the sitting Chief with a cunning grin. “Do we have an agreement?”
Korvis stood up from his throne, moving cautiously as if his legs would break. Without hesitation he grabbed the outstretched hand, pulling him close in a traditional gesture of comradery. “Ah we do, my new friend. I shall prepare my warriors to depart in a day or two!”
The onlookers who had paid attention to the meeting appeared to be pleased, while the rest of the loud gathering simply continued their respective conversations.
Korvis gestured for a nearby male slave, who dutifully approached the throne before the Chief spoke. “Gather my daughters, as our fine guests shall be treated with Omrin hospitality!”
As the slave left the room in a hurry, Dominax gave a questioning look to his host.
“Ah, come, Dominax. You and your companions are free to stay in the main hold until you depart,” he said, leading them from the crowded throne room. They passed through a nearby hallway that took them into the wooden extension of the building, before turning down a smaller corridor that held six doors before ending abruptly. “These are the guest quarters. Simply make a request and my slaves will do their best to fulfill it!”
“Your generosity is appreciated, Chief Korvis,” Clin stated, bowing slightly.
“I trust that you three are capable of deciding on your own sleeping arrangements, though this room is for Dominax,” Korvis explained as he gestured to the nearest room on the right. “There is a surprise waiting for you, as I’m sure it’ll help cement our agreement. In any case, I must return to my throne.”
The four warriors watched as the overweight Chief left them alone before Hesin spoke up. “Do you really feel that we can trust him to keep his word? I’m sure Chief Manith wouldn’t mind compensating Korvis if he were to hand us over.”
Dominax stroked his short black beard before shaking his head. “No, I don’t believe Korvis would attempt something so bold while we remain in such close proximity. In his prime perhaps, though no longer. However, there is work to be done.”
The three warriors looked at him in question, as he hadn’t yet informed them of his plan.
“In the days preceding our departure, we must use this opportunity to gauge Omrin’s defenses. It is likely that Korvis will retaliate when he realizes that we have no intention of handing over Zilrin,” Dominax explained. He’d have to conceal the plans to conquer Omrin until they had proven themselves to be trustworthy, though they would still be able to unknowingly aid in the attack.
“It may be wise to assess Omrin’s defenses in that case, focusing on where his spare guards will be placed in the absence of the bulk of his warriors,” Salduin added in a low voice, cautious of eavesdroppers. The wooden walls were thin, though their conversation was kept to a minimum volume.
Dominax grinned insidiously, pleased with the large man’s response. “Just the suggestion I was about to propose. Yet while you see to that, Clin will speak to the common people. Talk to them and attempt to see where the majority of their loyalties will lie in the event of an invasion. As for Hesin, you must focus on their physical defenses. Poke around their walls and seek any vulnerabilities.”
Both Salduin and Hesin appeared satisfied with their tasks, though Clin seemed to be concerned. “An invasion? Of what sort?”
“I’d only like to limit the possible casualties in the event of a conflict. If we must take Omrin, I’d prefer to know what the population’s response would be. Understand?” Dominax asked in a calm tone.
“I suppose. If it’s possible to limit the amount of deaths in such a situation, I’ll gladly do my best,” Clin answered.
Hesin subtly bit his lip in anger as he listened to the blonde man’s words, though he didn’t respond. Dominax ignored the man’s barely concealed anger and simply nodded his head in satisfaction. “Very well, you all know your orders. We shall speak more on this later.”
As he dismissed them, they all separated to find their sleeping quarters. Dominax entered the room that had been assigned to him, opening the sturdy wooden door. Inside he was surprised to find it occupied by a group of five young girls and one male.
“Ah Master Dominax, please come, make yourself at home,” the male of the group requested as Dominax recognized him to be the slave from the throne room. Completely bald and wearing only a loincloth, the skinny man was slightly paler than the girls he stood next to.
Closing the door behind him as he stepped into the room, Dominax eyed the girls in curiosity.
“Allow me to introduce you to the Chief’s daughters! As his guest, he has generously allowed you to spend the night with one of your choosing,” the slave stated with excessive eagerness.
Clearly the ‘gift’ that Korvis had mentioned, Dominax began to study the girls as they remained in a line in the center of the small room. Though each had varying facial features, the sibling similarities between them were undeniable. All quite attractive, they had brown hair cut in various braids and styles while they all wore thin skirts that matched the color of their father’s, displaying their soft thighs with alluring intentions. Only a thin strip of cloth concealed their breasts, as was common among the Lower Human Basin.
To see their beauty brought great relief to Dominax, as he would be required to choose one regardless of their collective looks. To display the desire to sleep with a man’s daughter directly complimented said man’s reproductive quality, though reversely, refusing an opportunity to lie with a daughter would be taken as a deep insult. Yet as Dominax carefully studied the waiting females one in particular caught his eye. Second from the right she was no less alluring than her sisters, though her physical features were not what set her apart. Rather, he glimpsed raw intelligence in her eyes, as opposed to the subservient expressions of her counterparts.
“You,” Dominax stated plainly, nodding in the girl’s direction. Her brunette hair fell in long curls that reached her exposed navel, sporting subtle abs. Several inches shorter than him, she couldn’t be more than eighteen years old, yet the cunning in her gaze practically yearned with unknown aspirations that he could only guess stretched far beyond the life of an obedient daughter. He’d need only to coax them out of her.
“Very good, my lord,” the bald slave responded with a quick bow. He then turned to the other girls. “Come, we shall grant them privacy.”
As they made their way through the exit, Dominax was left alone with his ‘gift’. Taking a step forward he watched her curious expression. “And your name is?”
“Dunith, my lord,” the girl responded without hesitation. Her voice was light, though a small grin tugged at the sides of her soft lips. “I will do my best to please you.”
“Oh, I have no doubt of that,” Dominax replied as she closed the distance between them. “You are quite alluring, yet I wonder…” he began, cupping her chin in a gentle grip. “Would you still be in this room if granted the choice?”
When his hand left her chin, she wasted little time in removing both his cloak and chest plate, placing each down carefully on a nearby shelf as she replied “Of course, Chief Dominax. It is an honor to serve you.”
“An honor? Yes, of that I am certain. However, I get the sense that there may be other desires in that gorgeous head of yours,” he stated, studying her carefully as she returned to him and set about removing his black tunic. As his athletic form was exposed her gaze was drawn down to his thick manhood, causing her eyes to subtly widen with concealed intrigue.
“Desires, my lord?” she replied as she lifted her eyes to meet his, the faintest hint of redness rising in her pretty cheeks. “I don’t take your meaning…”
Reaching around to untie her cloth top with meticulous slowness, Dominax allowed the thin covering to tumble to the wood floor as her firm breasts were freed. Similarly sized as Xenia’s, they were just as firm and youthful. “Desires…Dunith. What drives a sweet daughter of a Chief?”
Biting her lip as his strong hands caressed the sides of her young breasts, she felt his fingers wrapping under her round mounds as he held their perky weight. “I…I’m not quite…”
Sensing his arousal increasing, he heard her voice trail off as he moved to slide his fingers down her waist until they met her hips. Yet taking the band of her greenish skirt in his grasp, it took little effort to force the revealing outfit to slide down her feminine legs. The sight of her hairless pussy stirred his lust, coaxing it forth. “Ah, it’d be a shame if such an exquisite body was content with her place.”
The young woman faintly bit her soft lip in mutual desire as her body remained at the mercy of his gaze. She granted him a calculated shrug before meeting his eyes with her own. The response revealed everything he needed to know. She’d be his.
With a gesture to the nearby bed, he allowed her to lead him by the arm across the room, pulling him gently onto the less than luxurious sheets that consisted mostly of green-dyed fabrics.
Maneuvering behind her as they both lay on their sides Dominax pulled her close to him, pressing his growing erection against the underside of her soft rump. With his lips nearly touching her ear he began to whisper. “Has Korvis’s sweet daughter ever dreamed of ruling Omrin, I wonder?“
Feeling his hard manhood against her bare asscheeks forced a barely concealed groan from her parted lips. “Perhaps, my lord…” she answered, pushing backwards just enough to slip his length between her soft thighs. “Though my father has already selected my brother as his heir.”
The sensation of her womanly legs brought his erection to full fruition, feeling the soft warmth of her fertile body. “Ah…but that wasn’t my question.”
Moving her thighs back and forth Dunith caressed and massaged his cock with subtle movements as she chose her words carefully. “The…thought has entered my mind, my lord.”
Wishing to indulge in her pleasurable touch further, Dominax moved his hips with deliberate slowness as he began thrusting between her thighs. “Rightfully so…” he whispered into her ears, holding onto her hips for leverage. “Yet if the opportunity arose…would you seize it?”
“I…ahh…how, my lord?”
Dominax lightly bit her neck, forcing a moan from her young mouth. “Through me…”
With her lust reaching its apex she lifted her leg to grant him full access to her waiting loins, reaching down to line his shaft with her labia. “That’s quite a bold claim…”
Wishing to wait no longer, he pushed his hips forwards. With her assistance his manhood slipped inside with ease, forcing a groan from Dunith at his size. Their mutual arousal allowed him to continue rocking his hips with little time wasted, thrusting both slowly and deeply into her young pussy.
She offered no resistance as he grabbed her raised leg, holding it as his cock moved in and out. To be used by one of her father’s guests was far from uncommon, yet the genuine attraction she felt towards Dominax allowed her to accept his length with eager bliss.
“Bold…ahh…yet true,” he retorted as he enjoyed her tightness. “You need only…ahh…to pledge yourself to me.”
“Oh?” she asked, pushing back against him in rhythm with his thrusts. “Gods…you’re big…though that’s…not enough.”
“Through loyalty…ahh…I shall make you the heir…ahh…to Omrin…” he moaned, steadily rocking his hips. Pleasure trickled through his shaft with each movement, desiring nothing more than to spill his potent seed.
Groaning with lust she reached up to touch his face, feeling his short beard. “I’m almost afraid…oohh…to ask how…”
“You needn’t…ahh…betray your father. Simply accept the mantle when…ahh…the time comes…”
The idea clearly appealed to her as her hips merely urged him to continue his thrusts. Each pushed deep into her tight body, filling her completely. “I’d do so…oohh…happily, my lord…yet what is…ahh…the price?”
Dominax grinned in satisfaction at her intelligence. He had chosen well.
Pushing himself up into a kneeling position he held her leg as he rammed into her pussy, retaining her on her side. His speed steadily increased, thrusting continuously with primal desire.
Placing her hands on her breasts she rolled her head back in ecstasy, gleefully enjoying every inch of his shaft. “Ooohhh…gods…”
“You’d rule Omrin…ahh…under my command!” he finally answered, roughly pushing his hips into her spread legs. “Under my crown!”
Lightly tweaking her sensitive nipples, Dunith could only cry out in bliss as her young pussy was roughly pounded. Though she had served her father loyally, the possibility of claiming his throne ignited a spark of desire deep inside of her.
“Pledge yourself…aaahhh…to me, and you shall rule!” he exclaimed with passion, stoking the flames of her ambition.
“Ooohhh gods…my lord…” Dunith moaned, her body rocking along with nearly the entire bed. “I…I’ve wished…ahh…for such an opportunity…”
“Good…” he nearly groaned, forcefully slamming into her over and over as his pleasure steadily climbed.
“I…I…” she started, only to be consumed by their violent fucking. Enthralled by his passion and strength, she couldn’t force herself to warn him to pull out, cautious of her precarious proximity to her ovulation. Yet did she even want him to?
Every thrust into her gorgeous young body was ecstasy, flooding him with the primal desire to breed. Having already knocked up two women, Dominax held no doubt that he’d be able to achieve a third.
The thought of his child sitting on Omrin’s throne fueled his desire, his balls aching to mate. He cared little if their passionate cries could be overheard through the wooden walls, of which the possibility was almost certain. Perhaps they’d even reach Korvis’s ears, not knowing that the blissful cries of his daughter would be his downfall.
Dunith’s brown curls draped over her pretty face, becoming wild and unkempt as her body was used for Dominax’s enjoyment. She turned her head to look up at him with passion, as if urging him on.
Groaning loudly, he felt himself reach the point of no return. The pre-orgasmic sensitivity claimed his cock, forcing him to grit his teeth. In his short life he had found no greater feeling than climaxing raw inside of a fertile vagina. As such, after only a few quick thrusts through his heightened pleasure, he pushed as deeply as he could manage before unleashing bursts of potent sperm.
The Chief’s daughter could only cry out in surprised satisfaction as she felt his seed pour into her tight body, knowing she was fertile and ready.
With their loins locked together, he filled her tight womanhood as he held tightly onto her raised leg. Only when his pleasure began to slowly fade did he release his grip, panting as he joined her on his back.
Together they remained, quietly recovering until Dunith broke the silence. “M…my lord…I…”
Placing his hand on her flat belly, he merely closed his eyes with a grin. “Worry not, you shall be taken care of if you fall pregnant.”
The statement only caused her eyes to fix onto him as she turned to face him. Opening her mouth, she seemed to pause to rethink her next words before replying. “Did you…speak the truth when you…said those things?”
Dominax nodded, not bothering to face her as he basked in the afterglow of their mating. “I did. If you’re agreeable, simply wait and continue on as normal. The opportunity to replace your brother as heir will arise, and you need only to seize it.”
Tightening her lips imperceptibly as her quick mind processed the implications, she made no argument. Rather, she turned back over onto her back and moved her hand over her womb, unsure of her future.
***
19th of Twic, 5 BVE.
Dril Tundra, City of Shai.
The cold breeze ran across Varse‘s bald head as he stared out at the snow-covered City of Shai, the heart of the Shai Domain. From his high vantage point atop the Citadel, he watched as thousands of fellow Dril went about their daily lives, traversing the many roads and pathways of the dark stone city.
Yet the nearly freezing temperatures did nothing to affect him, protected by his species’ black blood. Red eyed and skin as light as the surrounding snow, Varse was nearly in a trance as he pondered the implications of what was about to occur in mere minutes. Even the hard wind that he had grown so accustomed to did nothing to reclaim his attention as it pulled at his robe and short cape.
“Ah, our future Potentate! How pleasant to find you up here,” a voice announced from behind, interrupting his thoughts.
Recognizing the voice of Representative Sinshi of Clan Irsi, he turned around to face the approaching man. Just as Varse typically wore a robe of his Clan’s colors, black and orange, Sinshi’s flowing outfit consisted of White and green. Though similarly bald and with the pointed ears of their mutual species, the slightly older Dril appeared somewhat plump in his elaborately decorated robe. Both men proudly displayed the symbols of their clans in the form of detailed tattoos that ran over the left side of their heads.
“I’m sure it must be nice for you to look out across our vast capital from such a height,” Sinshi continued as he joined Varse at the edge of the flat roof, protected from the steep fall by a waist high barrier. “Do buildings of more than two floors even exist back in Ishtai?”
“You know they do,” Varse replied coldly as he returned his gaze outwards. “Though reach the purpose of this conversation quickly, as I wish to have a moment of peace before the ceremony.”
Sinshi presented a thin smile, placing his hand on Varse’s shoulder. “So serious, you should learn to accept an innocent joke. Especially one from someone who holds the fate of your reign’s success.”
Varse turned his attention fully to the older Dril, rotating to meet his red eyes with his own as he brushed his arm away. “I was elected fairly, Sinshi. The Council will vote on my decisions, not you solely.”
“Ah but it wouldn’t hurt to have friends on the Council, would it? Much could be accomplished through cooperation.”
Varse clenched his jaw as he contained his harsh words, knowing exactly what the older Dril wished to accomplish. In theory, all members of the Dril species were equal, though in practice the truth was far more complicated. Individuals such as Sinshi summoned substantial ire in Varse, as he knew that the man only sought the betterment of Clan Irsi and himself rather than the Shai Domain as a whole. Yet…the representative was far from alone on The Shai Council. “The ‘friendship’ you offer is tainted, as I know of the personal palace you’ve built near Nelzarshi. Shall I assume that the whispers regarding you ‘utilizing’ Council funds are incorrect?”
The falsely pleasant smile dropped from Sinshi’s face, adopting an indignant expression. “Representative Tsida has caught your ear with her false claims, so it seems. Let us speak plainly then, seeing as you are new to this life, boy. Your predecessor knew how to play politics, allowing him to enjoy a long and prosperous reign. Follow his lead before you create more enemies than you’re capable of handling.”
As Sinshi turned to leave, Varse grabbed the older Dril by the forearm, forcing him to face him. “You may hold a decade over me, though don’t you dare call me ‘boy’. You’re not the only being on this roof capable of making enemies disappear.”
As the two men remained locked in a silent standoff, Varse’s attention suddenly shifted to the roof entrance as a female Dril emerged through the stone doorway.
Merely an assistant, the girl eyed them with hesitation for a moment before speaking. “Am I…interrupting you two gentlemen?” she asked, dressed in the typical black and red uniform of the Citadel that revealed her arms and the majority of her legs and thighs.
“Of course not, what can I do for you?” Sinshi asked with a calm smile as he quickly ripped his arm from Varse’s grip.
“The Council is waiting for both of you, as they’re prepared for the ceremony,” the assistant explained as she straightened up.
Varse took one last look out at the sea of buildings before turning to follow the assistant, knowing the fate of his people would soon rest on his shoulders.
***
“Varse of Clan Chalvarrus, approach,” Representative Ensik commanded as he had been randomly selected among the members of The Council to conduct the ceremony. Taller than most of his counterparts, he wore a robe of deep azure.
Obeying, Varse approached the center of the circular room, surrounded by all twenty-eight Council representatives. Each stood atop the raised stone platform that outlined the wall of the large chamber, placing them slightly above any who entered. Momentarily stripped down to a simple loincloth, Varse eyed each member of the Council firmly.
“Do you pledge to serve the population of the Dril Race and uphold our traditions?” Ensik asked.
Varse felt a surge of pride in his chest as he responded. Though he didn’t choose this life, he’d do all that was necessary for his people. “I do.”
“And do you pledge to protect The Shai Domain from any or all outsiders who seek to bring us harm?”
“I do.”
“And do you pledge to bring prosperity to the Dril until death parts you from this world?”
Varse considered the question, knowing there would be no turning back. There would be no peace for him until death, no life away from the politics of the Shai Domain. Though part of him would have been content with spending his days farming Tsrisu in the snow fields of Clan Chalvarrus, two simple words would erase any possibility of such a simple life.
“I do,” he repeated, his expression firm. Whatever desires for simplicity he held, there was no other true option for a man so devoted to Dril tradition as Varse. The people had chosen him to be their leader, and he had every intention of serving them to his utmost ability. He’d guard them from the threats of Magnius despite his personal desires. After all, it was his duty.
“Then be cleansed by the blood of Ysil and emerge anew as our Potentate!” Ensik commanded, gesturing to a waiting assistant with an outstretched hand.
Standing near the doorway, the young Dril female carefully clenched a large silver goblet in both of her delicate hands as she took her place behind Varse. He didn’t need to face her to know that the blood of former Potentate Ysil sloshed gently in the ancient goblet, collected shortly after the old Dril had passed away. Stored among ice until the ceremony the black liquid couldn’t possibly freeze, yet it remained as fresh and viscous as the moment it had been drained from the deceased ruler.
Varse let his eyes fall shut as the assistant lifted her arms to position the silver goblet above his head, tilting it to spill its contents in a steady stream. He straightened up, outstretching his hands in prideful satisfaction as the black blood poured over his bald head and streamed down his nearly nude body. The void-like shade of the liquid contrasted heavily with his entirely white skin, spilling onto the dark stone bricks of the chamber floor.
As the goblet was emptied over him the blood felt far heavier than it actually was, for he knew that the lives of every Dril now rested upon his shoulders. It was his responsibility, his purpose, to protect his people from any and all threats. None would harm The Shai Domain or its traditions under his watch. Not The Lanthians nor The Lish, The Arkos nor The Tazik.
Not even The Humans.
Like This Chapter:
Share This Chapter:
