Vaid Empire: Conquest
Chapter 113
18th of Silla, 20 AVE.
Kingdom of Narok, Arkos-Nu.
Deep within his personal lounge, King Torakeom savored the silence of the empty chamber, surrounded by lavish decorations carved from gold and rare gems. One could almost think that time had stopped. The air was still as he sat alone, having sent away his slaves when frantic news from the great gates of his city had reached his ear.
He blinked slowly as he stared at the exquisite artworks of his grand collection. Something echoed in the distance. For a brief moment, he thought he could hear the thundering march of the human legion.
The Vaid Empire was coming.
His silent peace enjoyed a short life. It was time for The King of Narok to return.
He felt the ache of each of his many long years as he rose to his feet. The countless intricate braids of his long beard and hair had turned white long ago. Straightening to his full height, he abandoned the guise of an elderly Arkos man and seized the proud stature of the king he was. Lean and tall, his robe of crimson silk hemmed with gilded patterns concealed the fragility of his slender form, his skinny neck supporting the tall and flat crown it had held each day for eight decades.
Folding his hands into his drooping sleeves, he left the comfort of the lounge behind and marched into the midst of the chaos spreading through his palace.
Slaves and guards rushed through the towering corridors in a frenzy of panicked movement. Wealthy members of the court hauled their ample belongings, spilling coins onto the dark stone floors. Catching sight of their king, however, everyone came to a stop and gathered before him to seek guidance. An elderly hand rose to calm them as they bowed their heads.
“Ah, so this is the valor our kin to the west should fear? Yes, yes, The Holy Kromak must tremble at the thought of us.” Torakeom silenced their excuses with a glance, chuckling to himself before addressing the wealthy men directly. “Return to your quarters. Bar your doors, though fear not.”
An older Arkos man decorated in every type of jewel that could be found beneath the mountains spoke up. “Your majesty, we-”
Torakeom silenced him with a hand. However old, the noble was a mere boy to him. “Quickly. Yes, I would see the corridors quickly cleared of rabble. Best to avoid misunderstandings when the humans arrive.” He regarded the guards next. “Now, I believe I’ve paid you enough, have I not? Of course I have. You’ll forgive my confusion upon finding you all scurrying through my halls like vermin fleeing a sinking vessel. Return to your duties,” he commanded with a calm smile and narrow eyes.
Bowing once more with a hint of shame, the guards rushed to obey their king.
“Ah, and the rest of you. Surely you were continuing our preparations for the arrival of our guests, weren’t you? I have no time to punish disorderly slaves.” He peered down at the men and women kneeling before him, grey bodies huddled in fear. Long before the fall of the Arkos army outside the city, he had begun to prepare for the unfortunate eventuality they now found themselves in. “Ready the palace for The God Emperor’s arrival.”
The slaves hurried away when they were dismissed. His gaze was cold behind his smile as he watched them.
Torakeom The Old, many called him. Torakeom The Undying. He had enjoyed FAR more years than most Arkos ever would, though still he craved more. Despite the ache of his great age, he would claim as many years of life as he possibly could before his end.
His possible death approached at long last. Never would he be ready. He intended to survive.
Through the polished halls of his palace, Torakeom strolled. His long legs permitted him to move swiftly without appearing to be in a hurry. Behind, his robe dragged across the smooth tiles of the floor.
The Palace of Arkos-Nu, most called it, though in truth, the home of Narok’s king was nothing like a traditional palace. Consisting of numerous tunnels and chambers carved deep into the mountain, it was an artificial cave system carved by Arkos tools at the far rear of the great underground city. Every wall, every floor, and every domed ceiling was made of smooth bricks of black stone to conceal the rocky surfaces just behind, decorated lavishly with gold and jewels.
Torakeom eyed one of the torches lining the dark walls as he passed by, its light a purple hue, as he thought about the tales whispered of The God Emperor’s fire. What little smoke the torches naturally produced trickled unseen to the tiny ventilation tunnels high above, a long climb, for the ceiling of every corridor and chamber had been built exceedingly high. Though they were buried deep beneath the colossal mountains, one could never feel cramped or confined within the wide and open halls of the palace.
He reached the towering doors of the harem atrium. The lines of eunuch slaves guarding the only entrance to the complex of chambers beyond parted at his approach. They hauled open the stone doors.
Inside waited the central chamber, a massive atrium decorated with fountains and various luxurious furnishings for his women to lounge upon. His favorite place in the world, it was an oasis for an old man with the weight of a kingdom upon his shoulders. All around waited the beauty of his harem, for his concubines and their children went about their peaceful lives. Along the walls stood entrances to several corridors that were lined with small dormitories for each of them.
Throughout the grand chamber, women lounged and talked quietly enough to maintain the tranquil atmosphere of the atrium at all times. They walked past eunuch guards as they strolled between fountains and cushions, wearing transparent silks that flowed down their grey skin and left much of their Arkos forms exposed.
All stopped whatever they were doing to bow as their king entered. Torakeom permitted them to rise and gestured for them to gather around.
Taking a moment to study the approaching crowd as they crossed the chamber, he savored the sight. For decades his harem had been his sanctuary, ever-changing. Now, there was a distinct possibility that he’d never see them again.
Fluttering silk clung to swaying hips. He eyed those among the crowd whose bellies were already swollen with pregnancies of varying progression. His smile grew prideful. Though the tip of his tail dragged limply upon the floor beneath his robe, the rest of him was quite functional.
Pregnancies led to children, and he and his predecessors weren’t so cruel as to snatch babies from their mother’s arms. Traditionally, both males and females were raised within the harem atrium until the boys grew too old. As he looked about the room, a particularly stunning concubine caught his eye. Or was she one of his granddaughters? At his age, he could no longer keep track, resulting in frequent misunderstandings. Usually, the head eunuch, The Purity Keeper, offered a correction. Sometimes Torakeom heard his warnings. Sometimes…not. With every woman wearing the same silks, or less, the castrated man’s largest duty was to document and keep track of each of their identities and relation to their king.
He spoke calmly when all had gathered to listen. “Ah, what a sight. Yes, what a tragedy to shatter it.” His smile faded. “We prepared for this, my darlings. The gate is about to fall, and our visitors will arrive shortly. Do not fear.”
The Purity Keeper maneuvered his way to the front amidst worried gasps and glances. “Your majesty, my men are prepared to move them.”
Torakeom didn’t bother to look at the slave. Instead, he merely nodded before turning to lead them. “Come.”
Those within the harem split into two groups. One group followed their king and his guards while the other remained inside the atrium. As planned, the concubines, children, sons, daughters, and grandsons were led through the halls towards a secure chamber buried deep within the palace, a secret vault. Many of his granddaughters who had reached sexual maturity were left within the atrium.
Torakeom was no fool. Many theorized that he was the richest Arkos to have ever lived, and rightfully so. Yet one did not obtain such wealth without understanding the ever-changing markets around him. Always was the world shifting. He had retained his power for these many long decades by adapting when others failed to, twisting every change into a way to profit.
The world was changing once more. He saw the likely outcome. With a ravenous empire just beyond the mountains at his back, Torakeom had done all he could to learn about this human God Emperor. One could not do business with a man he didn’t understand, after all.
He knew The God Emperor’s tendencies from countless tales of defeated enemies. He knew to keep his alluring and fertile concubines as far from the man’s reach as possible. So too would he spare his daughters, he supposed, as they held greater value while untouched by the human. If today did not bring his death, and if a bargain could be struck, his granddaughters knew how to serve their purpose.
He led the group only until the corridor split in two. Taking a final look at all he stood to lose, Torakeom placed them into the care of The Purity Keeper. “You know the way. Secured them, and quickly.”
The castrated man and his fellow guards moved to fulfill their orders as he split from the group. Strolling through the halls leading to the front of the palace while the others delved deeper, he banished his misgivings. If the reports of The God Emperor’s unnatural abilities were as true as they seemed, the human would find them no matter how deeply Torakeom locked them away. Even still, one had to take precautions.
Guards lined the halls as he approached the doors to the throne room. A familiar face stood ahead, bowing before his king. Torakeom caressed the gilded horns of his loyal advisor, the appointed Underguardian of Arkos-Nu, permitting the short man to rise. “One hopes that all preparations have been made, Baros. Time becomes our enemy.”
“I have done as you asked, your majesty.” Baros peered up at his towering king. Nearly as decorated, the finest jewelry had been woven into his braids. “They’re waiting inside.”
“Ah, the wounded animal that is Narok, ready to lash out a final time.” Torakeom gestured for the guards to open the doors. “Let us hope it does not come to that. Pray we are all reasonable men.”
As the king moved towards the doors, Baros placed a gentle hand upon his arm to stop him. When Torakeom glanced down, he immediately removed his hand. “Apologies, apologies, your majesty. I must ask once more for permission to join you inside. I, and many others, would feel much better if you did not face the human without an advisor.”
Once more his eyes narrowed, yet his smile remained. “An advisor? I am joined by eight decades of experience, my good, good friend. I shall speak to him in his language, ruler to ruler, human to Arkos.” He tilted his chin upwards. “Man to man. No other shall interfere.”
Though distraught, Baros could do nothing to sway his king’s mind. “As you wish,” he muttered. At the very least, he wouldn’t be entirely alone.
“Indeed.” Torakeom left the much younger man behind and spoke as he walked away. “Go on. Yes, grant our conquerors a proper welcome.”
The doors sealed behind him as he entered the throne room, intending to meet his fate inside. As promised, the others waited inside.
Beneath a grand dome high above, the throne room of Narok was a circular auditorium lined with several rows of seats carved into dark stone. The throne was located near the rear of the chamber upon a dais that placed it above the highest seats. It was a place for any wealthy man or merchant to come whenever the king held court, facilitating connections and the solidification of grand trades with the king’s approval.
The usually lively chamber now sat in a silent darkness, for only a select few of the small braziers along the walls had been lit. Their flickering light faintly illuminated the room, leaving shadows swaying throughout the auditorium. The grand dome, gilded and decorated, was lost in the darkness high above.
Among the shadows, the weapons Torakeom hoped he could avoid utilizing waited for their king.
Upon his entrance, assassins bled from the shadows. Dark forms concealed behind dark silks, they gathered to kneel before their king. Hardly were they the Tolkarik assassins of The Holy Kromak, though they would gladly die to protect their ruler if the worst came to pass.
“You shall take no action until my signal,” he commanded. “My shadows, my blades, let us hope you remain unstained by the end of this day.”
At his command, the assassins silently returned to their positions. The darkness concealed them as they stood within the dark alcoves cut into the walls behind the highest rows of seats, several of which held doors to alternate entrances.
Appearing alone, Torakeom strolled towards his throne. With the quiet sigh of an old man, his knees aching, he sat down upon the steps of the dais. There he waited for his guest.
***
The great gates of Arkos-Nu loomed ahead as the legion marched at The God Emperor’s back. With nothing standing in their way but the black stone gates themselves, they halted at their ruler’s command.
A silent breeze swept across the dark dunes as tens of thousands of warriors stood in place. They waited. The God Emperor’s sword rose above his head, the white blade crackling with electricity and fire. He pointed it forwards. So too did the Privictis Knights at his back lift their hands. As one, they shattered the silence with the roar of their power hurling from their fingers.
The black gates cried out, the sound of shattering stone echoing across the dunes. Cracks erupted across their carved surfaces.
Their power ceased after only a moment, a mere warning to those inside. The God Emperor held his blazing sword at his side. It was a shame to destroy the intricate carvings decorating every inch of the gates, yet if they continued to resist, Dominax would shatter the towering structures until only rubble stood in his path.
Arkos captives watched from afar in the wake of their surrender. Their commander held no authority to open the gates, for those inside obeyed only the word of their king. He could merely pray Torakeom would understand their dire position.
Waiting, Dominax lifted his sword once more. Cendra followed his lead at his side. Before their power could erupt through the air, however, they heard the thundering echo of stone grinding against stone. Slowly, the gates began to part, sending small chunks of shattered stone crumbling from the deep wounds they had forever scarred the gates with.
The gargantuan gates parted just enough to allow several men to slip through. Stepping outside, a short Arkos man led several armored guards out to meet their enemies.
A sea of humans stood ready to tear them apart, yet the Arkos men merely knelt at Dominax’s feet, lowering their heads. They rested their swords in the sand as the short man peered up to meet his glowing silver gaze. “God Emperor Dominax of House Vaid, may I, Baros, The Underguardian of Arkos-Nu, welcome you to our great city!”
The man’s tone was that of a friendly greeter, rather than that of a conquered enemy. He spoke in the human tongue rather than his own.
“I would speak to King Torakeom about his surrender.” Dominax’s deep voice held no mercy. “I have no use for his underlings.”
“Yes, yes, of course! You shall speak to him indeed!” Baros replied with a grin. “You shall follow me, and we shall-”
Among those at The God Emperor’s side, Anthara readied her spear. “You are in no position to give orders, Arkos worm.”
Dominax lifted a hand to quiet her. The power burning upon his blade extinguished, though still he held it at his side, a warning.
“Yes…ah, forgive me. The great King Torakeom simply requests a private audience.” Baros swallowed. “His majesty waits for you within the palace. If you’d be so kind as to follow me…”
The God Emperor watched the man gesture towards the gates. He nodded coldly and permitted him to rise.
Baros hid his relief well, exhaling slowly. Turning, he granted a signal to those still inside the gates. A moment later, the narrow crack widened as the gates swung open slowly to usher in their conquerors. The legion watched in awe as they saw the first hints of the underground city inside.
Dominax led them into the mouth of their fallen enemy. The marching steps of the legion sent subtle tremors through the ground as they departed the sand, stepping upon solid rock.
At her father’s side, Cendra gasped.
The great city of Arkos-Nu stretched out before them like a hidden treasure buried beneath the mountains. Within a natural cave larger than any of them had dared to imagine, buildings of dark stone were alive with blazing torches and burning braziers. Great pillars of knotted stone rose up into the distant darkness concealing the far ceiling, while stacked structures circled their thick bases. Buildings crept up the cave walls as far as they could reach, while others were carved into the stone itself.
“Yes, the gods were quite generous to leave this place for us to find,” Baros said with satisfaction at the obvious awe of the humans.
Dominax’s gaze merely burned with ambition as he beheld all he sought to seize, chuckling to himself. “Indeed you were, Dorian.” In time, those living within the underground city would find his Eternal Peace to be as solid and secure as the cave walls around them.
The legion marched down the street leading through the center of the vast cave. The large buildings on either side were decorated with artistic carvings and golden statues, clearly the estates of the wealthiest beings in Narok. Branching streets led into the distance as they passed by, and the structures gradually reduced in size the further from the center they stood. Estates became shacks, for the poor of the city resided in countless mazes of buildings stacked upon each other as the people fought to secure a tiny place for themselves within the cave. Further still stood the entrances to numerous tunnels.
Far at the rear, Arinax gawked at the sight. “Fascinating…”
Vixin felt uneasy as they entered, surrounded by guards as she kept her family close. As Zela wandered from her side in absolute awe, she yanked her back and held her close. If all went well, there would be time for sightseeing later.
Legionaries spread out to secure the streets, though the majority of citizens had long hidden inside their residences. Doors remained locked, and windows were blocked by curtains and furniture, as per their king’s orders. Still, they could see occasional Arkos scurrying through the alleys to get away or peeking behind corners to assess their invaders.
King Galis and his men remained behind to ensure the open gate remained secure. The rest marched in organized lines towards the palace far in the distance.
The home of old King Torakeom stood alone against the furthest wall of the cave. Grand and opulent, it was surrounded by deep fountains and gardens containing strange plants and glowing mushrooms that stood as tall as trees. The entire visible structure was a mere facade, a curved building lined with pillars and topped with two domed towers. As they entered, a grand entrance hall led deeper into the rock where the true palace rested.
Large enough to comfortably accommodate The God Emperor and his entourage, flanked by dozens of legionaries, the entrance hall was lined with statues of previous kings. Each appeared eager to outshine their predecessor, for the next in line was more elaborately decorated than the last. At the end, the grandest statue of all loomed.
Dominax beheld the image of Torakeom, a statue of solid gold, its eyes and armor made of jewels placed in dazzling patterns. He merely blinked, unamused.
“Ah, well, as I said, his majesty kindly requests a private audience,” Baros said as they came to a stop outside the doors to the throne room. “He waits alone, without guard nor advisor. One would hope you would honor his wish and do the same.”
“Alone.” The word was harsh in The God Emperor’s deep voice.
Having maneuvered his way to the front, Lalian lifted a nervous finger in objection. “Th…that would be unwise. I can be of great assistance.”
So too did Quinla speak up. “I have to agree, your majesty. I know these people and their ways best. Please, allow me to join you.”
“How fluently does this Arkos king speak the imperial tongue?” Cendra asked the short man sharply. “They call him The Old. Shall my father find a senile old man?”
“Oh, his majesty is quite fluent,” Baros hurried to reply. “God Emperor, you shall find a sharp mind waiting for you.”
“Good.” Dominax silenced his advisors with a glance. “He wishes to speak in private? So be it. I shall be as alone as he is.”
Quinla and Lalian opened their mouths to protest, though they remained silent.
“Father?” Nafalya whispered at his side. When she received a knowing nod, both she and Hesin stepped back and bled into the crowd of legionaries behind.
“Remove yourself from my path,” Dominax commanded the Arkos. “Let us see what your king may offer.”
***
The dark throne room hung in silence as Torakeom waited. A king sat like a beggar hoping his ruler would arrive, though his patience remained. Today would be the most profitable of his long life, or the end.
An echo of stone rubbing against stone ushered in his fate. The main doors swung open, allowing light to pour across the floor of the auditorium. A man loomed in the doorway, the light gleaming off his white armor and crown. When the doors sealed him inside, his silver eyes glowed in the darkness.
Dominax stepped into the faint light of the circular chamber’s center. “King Torakeom The Undying.”
“Ah, God Emperor Dominax of House Vaid.” He rose to his feet and strolled towards him with careful steps, sweeping his arms wide to gesture to the curved walls around them. “You’ve come to claim my throne, yes? I’d have words before I bow.”
“Yet bow you will.” Dominax’s sword was sheathed, yet his hand remained upon the hilt. He glanced at the alcoves as if seeing through the darkness. “Deception shall earn you my ire, yet I admit my curiosity. You’ve survived longer than any man I’ve encountered upon the most dangerous thing of all, a throne. Show me you have something of value to offer.”
“Yes, I’ve lived a long life. A very long life.” Torakeom touched his fragile chest. “I intend to see tomorrow’s sunrise and all those that follow for as long as I may.”
Dominax was not amused. “Then speak plainly.”
“Of course, my good, good friend. Are we not reasonable men?” He saw The God Emperor’s patience waning. “I believe there is a bargain we may strike. Let us find it, yes?”
Cold silver eyes stared sternly. “Arkos-Nu has fallen. My legion flows through the streets of your city like the blood coursing through your veins. You hold no power to propose a bargain.”
“Ah, I propose nothing, great God Emperor, merely the notion of possibility.” Torakeom smiled, though his calm expression did not reach his eyes. “You’ve seized my city, yes, though many remain. The other noble tribes of Narok shall be most eager to name one of their own as king in my absence. You crushed my army, yet others gradually gather across the kingdom. I suspect a most unfortunate fate lies before Narok, yet such is the nature of mortals, is it not?”
“A dying nature. May it wither beneath my rule.” Dominax saw Irith and Briza lingering in the darkness. “Narok is a beast without a head. Those who do not bow shall fall with ease.” He loosened his grip upon his sword. “Yet tell me something. As I stood upon the mountains parting our lands, I gazed across the dunes. All that I have read claims such dunes hold a stable and prosperous realm. Do the tales speak falsehoods?”
Torakeom chuckled. “A prosperous and stable realm is the most productive kind. Yes, a happy population fills my vaults with gold. A suffering and rebellious kingdom drains it.” He stroked his long beard, careful not to damage the intricate braids. “I suspect you know much about such things.”
Dominax nodded. “Few of my vassals know just how wealthy I truly am, yet wealth is a means to an end.”
“Oh?” Torakeom’s false smile faded as he dared to give voice to his true thoughts. “What else drives the hands of mortals if not the desire for wealth? Why else do your legions spill the blood of my people upon the dunes? Ah, I have heard of the Eternal Peace you propose. Yes, when the last of us have fallen and the world is yours, you shall sit upon a vast hoard of all you’ve earned.” Seeing The God Emperor’s disgust, he waved a dismissive hand. “Apologies, my good friend. Do not mistake my words, for I offer no judgment. Such ambition drives us all.”
Dominax tightened his hand upon the hilt. “Wealth facilitates order. Nothing more. In the hands of a few worthy beings, it may be used to uplift and secure those beneath their control.”
“And yet order facilitates the gathering of wealth. May it be our reward for ruling over prosperous realms.”
“A reward, yet a tool all the same. I have witnessed lesser men cling to their fortunes while the population withers beneath them.” The God Emperor’s deep tone oozed through the dark chamber. “I have no use for such men.”
Torakeom stroked his beard as he pondered. “Ah, then I suppose we’ve reached an impasse, my good friend. Surely that should not prevent us from finding a mutual bargain. As you said, let us speak plainly. I know of your withdrawal from the jungle. What do you seek that has brought you all the way to our desert?”
“A solution.” Dominax began to slowly pace around the Arkos, his voice low and harsh as he gradually circled him. “The jungle resists my legions, yet your people have experience fighting the Lanthians. So long as we are speaking plainly, I intend to seize Narok. I shall send the Arkos armies that remain after your fall against the jungle until it too submits.”
“Ah, yes.” Torakeom smiled once more. “I cannot say I shall weep for those winged vermin. I shall even admit that such a sight would be most pleasing.”
“Bow, and you may witness their fall.” Dominax studied the tall Arkos as he slowly paced. “What I see before me is a man that may prove useful. Your ample experience would be a shame to discard, yet I must be certain.”
Torakeom calmly folded his hands into his sleeves. “Then hear my advice now, great God Emperor. You may force my people to bow. You may break them beneath your boot and force them to fight. Wealth is merely a tool? Yes, I suspect human coin would be sufficient to make most join your cause.” The risks were ample, yet so too were the possible rewards. “Yet you’d have only their blades, not their hearts. This I propose to you, my good friend. Fight for them first.”
Intrigued, Dominax came to a stop.
“Yes, yes, long have we suffered the hate of our western kin. Long has The Kingdom of Wonakaros sent raid after raid against our borders. You seek to claim the world? Turn your gaze to the west and crush The Holy Kromak at our side, Arkos and humans fighting as brothers,” King Torakeom urged with passion. The removal of their neighboring foes would ease a great burden upon his shoulders. No longer would Narok villages and their gold be pillaged. “You know the value of a warrior purchased with coin. Yet earn their hearts, and they shall gladly give their lives beneath your command.”
A faint smirk crept onto The God Emperor’s lips. “A curious suggestion.” Long had he pondered conquering all of The Wandering Desert before returning to the jungle, rather than Narok alone. Eventually Wonakaros would fall beneath his gaze regardless. “And must I keep you upon your throne so you may command your armies, I wonder?”
The old man shook his head. “No, no, my friend. War is a…distasteful occupation, fit only for the savages of the west and the lower beings of our population.” He quickly corrected himself. “Ah, that is to say nothing of you and your kin, of course, great God Emperor. Your conquest inspires the greatest of-”
Dominax silenced his flattery with a hand. “Enough of that. We agreed to speak plainly.”
“Yes, of course, of course.” Honesty would serve him best here. “I would request to remain upon my throne only to ensure the stability of Narok beneath your great empire. There shall be no bloodshed between our tribes, and in your absence, I shall work to see the population accept your rule.”
The God Emperor clasped his hands behind his back, his silver eyes peering deep into the old man’s soul. “A worthy being should understand the purpose of wealth, though your flawed ideals have done little to damage your rule.” His deep voice poured from his lips as he assessed the ancient Arkos. Few were worthy to judge a man that had ruled wisely for nearly a century. “My advisors shall look deeper into the state of Narok. Should the tales of a prosperous and stable kingdom prove true, I see little reason to strip a crown from a man of your experience. Merely kneel at my feet before the masses, submit yourself and your throne to my empire, and you may prove yourself to be a valuable asset.”
Despite the ache within his old chest, Torakeom loosed a chuckle that echoed off the curved walls. “Most gracious of you, great God Emperor.” He lifted a finger, pressing his luck further. “Yet I wonder if your generosity would venture further. I will admit what you already know, for the fall of Wonakaros shall benefit me greatly. I wonder, however, if this most pivotal moment in history could not be utilized to far greater effect.” He watched Dominax’s glowing gaze study him with curiosity. “When looking to the north, I see only potential for us both.”
Dominax waited. Only the eagerness of the older man’s words maintained his patience.
“For too long the north desert has stood beyond our reach. Yes, far too long. The monstrosities that lurk beneath the sands outmatch those that infest Wonakaros. Each of our attempts to colonize the territory during past generations have seen our efforts consumed by the desert.” Torakeom shook his head in bitter disappointment. “Only the strongest of warriors survive upon those dunes, and thus many of the harshest of our exiled tribes have sought to make their homes in the north. Venture there, and you shall discover nothing but horrors and murderous scum waiting for your arrival.”
Dominax recalled Lalian’s words regarding the area. When the day came to turn their attention to the Taziks, such inhospitable dunes would stand in their way.
“The world rests within your aims, and thus, I make a simple proposition. In light of our new…ah, friendship, I would see us combine our resources to pacify the vile area for good. Such an aim has long been in my dreams. I would see this historic unification of humans and Arkos join together to settle lands long beyond the reach of us both.” Torakeom held out his hands, palms upwards. “Let us see this day, a day that may have ended in terrible tragedy, end with a bargain that shall show the people of Narok the value of submitting to human rule. Let a new age of cooperation begin.”
Long had the old king grown accustomed to manipulation. Dominax, however, saw the plain value beneath his words. The north desert had always been a problem he had known would need to be solved one day. Though Torakeom undoubtedly sought only to profit, for more land would usher in further taxes from new citizens that settled the area, he offered a smirk. “Such a thing may be possible, though only after Wonakaros and the Lanthians lay conquered.” Ambitions trickled through his head, envisioning a new kingdom where mere dunes now stood. He put such thoughts aside for another day. “Until then, immediate matters demand my attention.”
“Of course, of course. Great God Emperor, allow me to begin summoning the remaining armies of Narok for you so they may meet our foes to the west.”
Dominax shook his head. “There will be no invasion until my legion has properly rested.” He thought of the mutiny at Fask with a stern expression. He needed to fulfill his promise and, more importantly, he needed time to remove disorderly members of his army and instill renewed discipline into the rest before he could march a single step further. “You will make accommodations for them all.”
Though he remained silent for a moment, Torakeom finally nodded. “Ah, yes, rest. Rest is most important. Your legion shall find Arkos-Nu to be a most welcoming place. Accommodations have already been prepared for you and your family.”
“Good.” Dominax’s satisfied smirk returned. “Let us be done with this.”
“Yes, my good friend. Ah, I suppose I should make a final confession before we return. So long as we are speaking honestly, I’d have no misunderstandings.” Torakeom’s tone grew serious. “In truth, we are not alone. Forgive me, though only a fool would neglect to take precautions.”
The old king gave the signal. The shadows remained still. In confusion, he tried once more.
“Precautions. I agree,” Dominax’s deep voice echoed through the auditorium. With a gesture of his own, Truthseekers emerged from every dark alcove. They shoved the slain bodies of Torakeom’s assassins forwards, letting their bloody corpses topple down the rows of stone seats.
Torakeom’s gaze widened. “Great God Emperor…forgive me. I-”
“So long as we are speaking honestly, I must know something.” Dominax stepped towards the older man. “Eighteen years ago, four Arkos assassins were sent as gifts from the great King Torakeom to take my life. They failed, and here I stand, yet still I wonder.”
Horrified by the accusation, the old king held out his pleading hands. “No, no, I sent no such gifts!”
Dominax sensed his genuine shock. His gaze burned into Torakeom’s soul. “Then the question lingers. Who else would send such gifts?”
Surrounded by Truthseekers, the old man searched for an answer. “Anyone, great God Emperor! The other noble tribes, perhaps! Ah, or slavers with access to Arkos slaves. By the gods, there are many. Perhaps the…the…” His tone grew quiet as his eyes narrowed. “The Tolkarik assassins of The Holy Kromak.”
The realization he sensed within the king was all too genuine. Dominax dismissed his Truthseekers with a wave, and they blended back into the shadows to depart through the many alcove entrances. “Perhaps. Perhaps not. We shall see.” He gestured towards the main doors. “In any case, we’re done here.”
***
Hours after the fateful meeting of The God Emperor and King Torakeom, the city was a swarm of organized activity. The legion settled into their temporary sanctuary from the desert as their long rest began, directed by their commanders as they hauled supplies and set up tents within the underground city. They patiently awaited better accommodations as the king’s men worked tirelessly to find places for them.
When the members of House Vaid were guided to their new quarters within the palace, Dominax sent his guards to seize control over much of the structure. Legionaries lined every hall and stood at every door, always watching, always listening.
As night began to fall outside the open gates, plunging the dunes beyond into darkness, Dominax removed his armor within his sleeping quarters. Supposedly, he had been offered the largest bedchamber in the palace.
A knock upon the door echoed through the spacious room. Having already moved to the door in preparation for whoever approached, he found Lalian waiting in the corridor. He welcomed his friend inside.
“Quite singular, isn’t it? Replace the dark stone for white, and it would nearly feel like home,” Lalian said. They shared a light chuckle before he continued. “A…actually, Dominax, I’ve come to tell you that King Torakeom has requested your presence.”
Dominax’s lips tightened with displeasure. “Let him come before his new ruler, then.”
“His messenger claims there is something he’d like to show you. A…a gift, it seems.”
Though skeptical, Dominax eyed his chamber. A long night stood ahead, and he would find no sleep in any case. “So be it.”
Together they departed and followed the many twisting halls of the underground palace. Guided by Lalian, The God Emperor summoned several guards to follow. They navigated the spacious tunnels until they arrived outside of two stone doors.
The Arkos guards bowed at their approach. As if their movements were rehearsed, they opened the doors and ushered their conqueror inside.
Beyond, they found the atrium of the royal harem waiting inside. The vast chamber was illuminated by countless candles placed all about, forming a path that guided them towards the center. There, beneath the great dome above, King Torakeom waited with dozens of Arkos women.
“Ah, my good, good friend! Come! Let me offer you the hospitality of Arkos-Nu!” Torakeom greeted them. He eyed the guards filling the room, though spoke only to The God Emperor. “Yes, behold the beauty of my granddaughters! Many of the wealthiest men in Narok have paid great quantities of coin to plant their seed within their king’s kin. Tonight, in celebration of our…ah, happy unification, I shall allow you to select any of them to lay with. Call it a complimentary gift to seal our bargain.”
The women stood on display, awaiting his choice. A variety of many ages and many alluring forms stood obediently. When their grandfather gave a signal, they turned around and bent over, touching the floor while spreading their legs wide to grant him a full view of all they could offer.
Quivering at the sight, Lalian blushed as he retreated into his facts. “My…my lord, the Arkos nobles of Narok are loyal to their tribe, th…their families, rather than Houses. Such breedings are common, for the more children they conceive, th…the more likely they are to birth children with talents useful to their tribe.”
“Ah, a knowledgeable Lanthian at last? This day brings many surprises,” Torakeom muttered with a smile. He returned his attention to his conqueror. “Tell me, which intrigues you most? By all means, have a closer look if you’d like. Feel their welcoming warmth.”
“An intriguing offer.” Dominax glanced at Lalian before sweeping his hand towards the beauties on display. “I shall have them all.”
“ALL?” The facade of the king burned away, and for a moment the true Torakeom stood before them in shocked fury. Eight decades of diplomatic experience returned swiftly, however, for as his conqueror’s silver gaze offered a calm challenge, he knew how precarious his position remained. “All. Ah. Yes, all. Of course, of course, my good friend. May you enjoy every pleasure they may offer.”
“I shall. You may go now, for when this night ends, we shall continue to discuss the future of your people.” Dominax dismissed him.
The promise did much to soften the insult of his great overreach, for his words coaxed Torakeom’s ambitions. With thoughts of profit returning his subtle smile, the old king nodded. “Yes, as you wish, great God Emperor. As you wish.”
After the Arkos king had departed, Lalian awkwardly followed with a step towards the door. Though he sought to depart and leave his friend to enjoy his gifts, Dominax stopped him with a glance before he could speak. “You may stay, Lalian.”
“I…I don’t believe…I mean, it seems likely that Anthara would not…well…” Lalian stammered as he glanced at the waiting women, keenly aware of the watching guards far behind.
“Come, my friend.” Dominax beckoned him forth. Together they stood before the granddaughters of Torakeom as they continued to present themselves like obedient statues. The God Emperor reached to caress the rump of the nearest girl. “I won’t stop you if you choose to leave, though I see no other I’d rather enjoy these prizes with.” He gestured towards another woman. “Feel them, at the very least.”
A green hand reached forward. Fingers trembling, Lalian dared to touch the rear before him. The feeling of her smooth grey skin sent a shiver of lust through his body, forcing his lips to part.
“You may have your pick,” Dominax’s deep voice offered. As the women remained bent over with the treasure between each of their legs fully on display, he brushed his thumb over the nearest waiting labia. He watched the girl quiver.
Feeling his manhood hardening beneath his tunic, Lalian savored the feminine flesh beneath his touch. “I…I suppose…” Swallowing, he watched her tail sway before him. “I suppose this one will do.”
Dominax chuckled, nodding with approval. He found his own mate, the first of many.
Human words seemed only to stir a select few as the rest glanced about in confusion, though it mattered little. Dominax guided the two women towards nearby cushions resting beside one of the fountains. There, he left Lalian to find his own enjoyment as he began to undress.
More than accustomed to serving, Lalian’s chosen lover required no words as she began to remove his cloak and tunic. A fit and tall beauty, she seductively guided him on this back. His nervous form offered little resistance as she mounted his waist. Green hands touched her strong thighs, offering a whimper as she began to rub her lower lips against his short shaft to wet him.
The God Emperor stood bare as he turned, granting commands to his guards. With a memory of the Arkos assassins eighteen years ago, he forced the legionaries to spread out and stand guard against the far walls while dismissing others. Of course, paranoia did not drive his actions alone. A devious smirk crept upon his lips.
His own mate was the opposite of the one Lalian had chosen. A short and dainty girl, she offered nervous purple eyes as he guided her to rest upon the cushion. Her silks did nothing to conceal her as he forced her legs apart to behold the worth of Torakeom’s blood.
The granddaughter of a king squirmed lightly as his fingers glided into her sex, offering soft moans as her breeder assessed her tight embrace. A thin tail swayed in nervous excitement as she was pleasured.
Hardly were the other women content to sit idly and wait. Well trained, they began to gather around The God Emperor and Lalian, running their hands over their own alluring forms to coax their desires further. Silks fluttered as hips swayed, watching their cousins serve their temporary masters.
A human cock pressed against the dark labia of an Arkos. With the ache of a man gliding into a fertile girl, Dominax entered her slowly. A tail flicked wildly as her legs trembled, forcing a moan from her pretty lips as he pushed his cock deep.
The sight of their cousin being penetrated caused some of the women to whisper, giggling among themselves while others blushed with arousal. The woman atop Lalian, however, merely continued to grind against his cock as he remained trapped between her thighs.
As he savored the tightness of the girl, so too did Dominax drink in the emotions of the guards. Arousal, envy, their feelings radiated all around as The God Emperor sensed them. Having dismissed those he recognized as loyal veterans, all that remained were those who had participated in the mutiny. Though loyal once more, he would make them watch.
The girl uttered soft moans as he began to thrust inside her, all while the other women set about their own duties. A select few crossed the chamber to find the Arkos instruments they had been trained to play, filling the room with a quiet melody. Others began to dance to the strange music, shaking their hips and moving like swaying serpents to please their masters. A small number of the women settled upon nearby cushions or the edge of the fountains, exploring their bodies as they watched every deep thrust.
Lalian’s manhood throbbed with anticipation beneath his lover. Her smirk held no mercy, moving her hips as if seeking to drive him to insanity. Gradually, her lower lips grew wetter against his cock as she rubbed.
Her taunting features only increased his need. Uttering a whimper, Lalian squeezed her strong thighs in his grasp as he endured, thinking of Anthara. In his lap sat an Arkos, her foe. His cock rubbed against the granddaughter of the man that had permitted his vassals to raid The Lanthian Jungle for nearly a century, and longer still during the reign of his predecessors.
Surely she would understand, would she not?
His frantic thoughts were silenced a moment later, for at long last, his lover lifted herself before sinking back down, taking his short cock inside her. Lalian groaned loudly as his eyes fluttered.
Dominax heard the pleasure of his friend as he continued to thrust, making the girl beneath him squirm. With a hard, deep thrust, he forced her to climax.
He slid his cock from her trembling loins, leaving her to quiver atop the cushion as he sought his next prey. The girl would taste his seed by the end of the night, though he would sample others before his first finish.
Wide, seductive hips earned his attention. They swayed nearby, belonging to a woman that danced beside the nearest fountain. She offered a coy smile when their eyes met, and he crossed the chamber to claim her.
Dominax held every intention of keeping a close watch over Torakeom, aware of his flawed nature, though he was more than willing to acknowledge the older man’s achievements. His long reign had earned Dominax’s respect. His experience would prove quite useful in ensuring Narok’s full submission. Now, however, the old man deserved a compliment for the beauty his blood had produced. All around stood gorgeous forms.
The next to fall to The God Emperor’s desires drew him closer. His hands found her childbearing hips, pulling her against him. She settled into his lap as he sat down upon the fountain’s edge, guiding her to sink down on his cock as it remained coated in her cousin’s juices.
Lalian sought to explore his lover, though as he caressed her athletic stomach, she took his wrists and held him down. Trapped, his groan was one of submissive delight, blushing deeply.
Dominax permitted his lover no delusion of control. Even as she bounced in his lap, he drove his hips upward to thrust inside her with every movement, matching her rhythm. Her head fell back in bliss, letting her long hair flow down to touch the stone floor.
Watching, the legion stood obediently. The God Emperor granted them a display, savoring their envy.
Hardly did Lalian believe he could endure a minute more, yet his lover knew how best to prolong his pleasure. With slow, calculated movements of her hips, she sought to milk his enjoyment.
Once more Dominax forced his current partner into a shuddering orgasm, making her shake in his lap. When she recovered, he forced her to leave his lap before standing. She continued to pleasure herself as he sought another body to explore.
A great variety of beauty was at his mercy, though he sought something deeper. The two lovers he had left behind were little more than slaves. Seeking, sensing, he found a pair that caught his attention. Two girls with petite bodies, he summoned them closer.
Lounging upon another cushion, Dominax guided them to lie at his sides. Brushing their chins, he coaxed their mouths to meet his cock. Cousins giggled together, yet they eagerly set about their work, licking his shaft.
No doubt they tasted the juices of their kin. They served him together as he studied them, seeing more thoughts behind their eyes than the two that had come before, though still finding himself disappointed. Putting aside his aims for a moment, he simply savored their work as he beckoned another pair to approach.
Groaning, pushed to the very edge of his limit, Lalian was saved when his lover slowed to a stop. She held him inside, permitting him a moment of mercy before resuming. He watched as the girls came to Dominax’s side. Unable to understand the imperial tongue, they instead obeyed when he carefully grasped the back of their heads and guided them together. Though obviously reluctant at first, their lips met.
Dominax watched the pair kiss, cousin meeting cousin, while his current lovers licked at his cock. The taboo sight stirred his blood. He took their hands, guiding them to brush between each other’s smooth thighs. Fingers met their kin, their reluctance melting with every passing moment as he forced them to serve each other.
The granddaughters of Torakeom moaned, granting their master an incestuous display.
An ache deep within his loins urged Dominax to go further. He gestured to another pair. Without words, he used the moaning cousins as an example, selecting women and matching them with a companion from where he lounged. Reluctance, lust, all filled the air of the harem atrium to join the sweet aroma of Arkos twat.
Watching, he felt as if his blood would boil with arousal at the sight. He dismissed the pair licking at his manhood and sought another warm body to thrust into. Hardly did he have to search long. Before he could even rise from the cushion, another girl dared to claim a place at his side.
“I speak…human,” she said in a heavy accent. A nimble little thing, she tested him further by stretching a flexible leg to rest across his lap. “Master…God Emperor.”
Taken off guard by her boldness, Dominax could help but chuckle. The girl had seized her fate and forced herself to his side, rather than waiting for this attention like the rest. More than intrigued, he caressed the bare leg atop him. “I’d have your name.”
The girl focused, remembering the meaning of his words. “Na…me? Ah! Taros is this one.”
“Taros.” Dominax savored the name as he caressed her. A pretty face held purple eyes that appeared keen, just as he had searched for. “Come, Taros. Let me see your worth.”
All too ready to prove herself, she moved like a deadly feline atop him. Loose strands of dark hair tumbled messily down her face, her features offering a hungry grin as she rubbed her groin against his cock. When she slid him inside, their mutual groans echoed to join the soft music of the chamber.
Utterly tight, he felt her cunny squeezing down around his girth as she began to rock her hips. She placed her hands upon his chest for support as she moved, feeling him touch her thighs.
The others possessed bodies that were just as pretty, yet this one peered down at him with ambition radiating from her gaze. Dominax caressed her smooth thighs, enraptured by the Arkos girl riding his cock.
Lalian watched as pairs of women blended and mixed, hands exploring bodies in the aftermath of Dominax’s silent commands. Cousins moaned as they were pleasured by their kin, fingers gliding over smooth grey skin and alluring curves.
His green cock strained within his lover. Once more she stopped. Once more she continued. She expertly dragged his pleasure out far longer than he believed he could endure, yet the threat of his finish was ever looming.
Pinned beneath an enemy of his people, Lalian gritted his teeth. When he glanced over to see the girl in Dominax’s lap throw her head back in absolute bliss, he found his own.
Dominax chuckled at the sound of Lalian’s finish, hearing the green man cry out. Focusing upon his own pleasure, The God Emperor reached to cup his lover’s petite rump to guide her movements. Though young, she was far from inexperienced.
Her thrusts turned frantic, slamming herself up and down upon his manhood. His tip knocked against her cervix, as if she begged to be the first to earn his seed. “Baby…” she muttered in her heavy accent. “Give…your…baby…”
The clumsy words stirred his urges, sensing her healthy womb. Fingers digging into her smooth Arkos skin, pulling her hard against his lap with every movement, Dominax held every intention of breeding her.
At long last, as he pulled her to sink down hard upon his cock, he held her tightly as he unleashed his seed. Human sperm erupted inside a fertile Arkos girl, certain to get her pregnant. Her flexible body trembled with an orgasm of her own, delighted in receiving what she had worked for.
The first granddaughter of Torakeom fell to The God Emperor’s seed. The rest were certain to follow.
Permitted by his lover to rise, Lalian blushed as she granted him a kiss. He collected his belongings before glancing at Dominax, seeing his friend’s seed oozing from the girl as she settled to rest at his side.
“Leaving so soon?” Dominax asked, holding the girl’s warm body against him.
“This has been…truly singular, though I really should go,” Lalian replied, thinking of Anthara. Before departing, however, he couldn’t help but offer him a smile. “Thank you for this, my friend.”
Though Lalian said his goodbyes, Dominax remained. He rested. The moment he was ready once more, he intended to breed the next, and the next, until none were left without his baby in their belly.
If the aim of the noble tribes of Narok was to spread, Dominax would sire an entire generation for old Torakeom.
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