Vaid Empire: Conquest
Chapter 96
17th of Thriduin, 19 AVE.
Kingdom of Lian, Praith.
“Here it comes!” Vixin announced excitedly. The elegant voice of the princess mixed with the cacophony of Anthara’s pained groans.
The room nestled inside the royal family’s temporary stronghold was compact and snug, centered in the heart of the building in the heart of the city. All Lanthian furnishings had been torn from the rest of the rooms and replaced with human comforts, save for the small chamber in which they stood. Wooden walls remained decorated with green woven tapestries fashioned into traditional symbols that encouraged motherhood and fertility. A large bowl made of solid gold sat in the center of the room, the inside cushioned with packed leaves.
No other room but a traditional birthing chamber would do. Squatting over the golden bowl, Anthara squeezed Vixin’s hand to one side and Yisi’s on the other as she cried out.
Gathered around, the cramped confines permitted few to observe, and only Dominax, Irith, and Lalian stood to watch the birth of The Grand Imperial Architect’s son. The green man trembled at the pained groans of his mate, fidgeting wildly with his fingers until The God Emperor’s hand upon his shoulder offered support. He straightened, inhaled deeply, and solidified his resolve. His love needed him to be brave.
Vixin and Yisi performed their duties as best they could. Having never witnessed a Lanthian birth, they steadied her through the pain. Their own pregnancies were on display, and Yisi couldn’t help but lay a hand unconsciously upon her own slight swell, blushing at knowing her child shared a father with the Lanthian’s unborn baby. She had witnessed many births during her Sage training. Admittedly, she had delivered many babies from pretty women that had caught The God Emperor’s eye, bringing forth more fatherless bastards such as herself into the world. Only now, with her own womb carrying his spawn, did she find herself eager to flee her duties even as Anthara groaned.
The gilded loincloth hanging over the bowl glimmered in the gentle candlelight. Anthara wore the uniform of a warrior, the same gift from Lalian she had donned in preparation to conceive their son. She had chosen the traditional uniform of her forebears in preparation for her greatest battle, loosing a scream as she pushed. No Vaid blood ran through her veins to replace her pain with ecstasy.
Vixin watched the woman’s midriff subtly swell as something moved through her vaginal canal.
With a final push, Anthara grimaced as her labia parted. Lalian’s eyes widened at the sound of something falling into leaves with a gentle thud. Almost too nervous to look, he stepped closer as a deep relief oozed from his mate’s lips, peering down into the bowl. There, drenched in the juices and green blood of his mate, sat a perfectly shaped egg. Awed, a dampness began to fill his gaze as reality crashed down upon his shoulders. He was a father.
Vixin carefully cupped the egg in her grasp, its size fitting comfortably in her palms as Yisi tended to the new mother. Cleaning its surface with a ready cloth, she offered the polished egg to its father. “Congratulations, Lalian.”
Her voice was soft, holding an affection that tested his restraint further. A dam fought to contain his emotion as he accepted the egg, heart racing. The smooth shell was divided into two shades of green, mirroring the skin of a Lanthian. No matter how hard he fought, no matter how hard he tried to remain strong, the dam was gradually undone until tears of joy flowed down his cheeks.
Long had he accepted his fate. Long had he endured the knowledge he’d never be a father. Now, holding his child close to his chest, he wept, letting the remnants of his past torment drain away.
***
Their time in Praith had been a month of tension, suspicion, and mistrust. Now, mere hours after the birth, the streets and walkways near the heart of the city came to life as the legion celebrated The Grand Imperial Architect’s son.
The vast majority of the city remained tightly secured, yet the throne platform glowed with human braziers and bioluminescent plants that had been collected from below as the royals feasted. A great table had been placed before the throne, concealing the faint stains of green blood that had seeped into the cracks of the wood after The Priarch’s defeat.
Dominax sat atop the throne with Anthara and Lalian seated at his feet at the head of the long table, their egg resting proudly upon a cushion between them. Having been spared the ordeal of a human live birth, enduring only the thickness of the large egg, she rested at her lover’s side, knowing the soreness between her green thighs would heal quickly. Her fingers met Lalian’s as they lovingly held their egg together, as if fearful the cushion would vanish and it would tumble to the ground.
Clin sat beside Cendra at the table. Although he had waited with his fellow advisors outside the birthing chamber, he had been the first to grant Lalian a wide grin and a joyful congratulations. Salduin had wrapped him in his large arms with a powerful squeeze, and Hesin nodded with a smirk that wasn’t nearly as taunting as usual, relinquishing his mask in respect. Now the three men feasted aside lovers and children of their own.
Lalian watched Cliax stare at a distant group of slaves returning to their quarters under the strict curfew with furrowed brows, uneasy thoughts clear upon his young face. He turned in time to see Jinilya ignite the wood of the table with her flames, laughing hysterically as Yisi hurried to extinguish the swirling fire. He saw Atrix suckling at Nafalya’s breast, her belly beginning to show her latest pregnancy.
Knight Kunir had been permitted to join them as Clin’s honored guest. Across from him, his eyes seemed locked upon Vixin’s pregnant belly. She offered a reassuring smile when she caught his obvious gaze, caressing her swell. In response, he drank heavily from a cup of Omrinian Wine.
Life mingled everywhere Lalian looked, all gathered to celebrate the birth of his child. Rising calmly from his seat, he leaned to whisper into Anthara’s ear when she looked up with a question. “A moment. I’ll return shortly.”
Departing without a second glance, he made his way from the platform and crossed a bridge. The legionnaires greeted him with low bows and congratulatory grins each time they parted to permit him through.
Far from the feast, he found a quiet spot at the edge of a walkway, releasing a long breath of relief as he leaned over the railing. He peered into the darkness below, listening to the distant celebrations, and fearful silence from every Lanthian dwelling. “I’m a father.”
“You departed your night of victory,” a deep voice came from behind. Lalian hadn’t heard a single step, turning to see Dominax strolling soundlessly to his side. The God Emperor joined him at the railing. “Something troubles you.”
There was no glow to Dominax’s silver eyes. For a brief moment, beneath his crown, he almost appeared human. “Nothing at all. I…I merely needed a moment of peace. It’s difficult to steady my thoughts with so much noise.”
“By all means.”
They lingered together, savoring the quiet. There were no distractions to focus upon. There was nothing to stop reality from settling in. Lalian found himself smiling.
“Thank you, Dominax,” Lalian dared. The guards kept their distance, oblivious to their words. “It all happened so fast. The birth, the feast, I…I haven’t had time to thank you again.”
Dominax shook his head. “An unnecessary gesture. Merely raise the child well, and I shall know of your gratitude.”
Once more they stood in silence. Finally, when Lalian dared to speak again, his calm gave way, and his nervous fidgeting returned. “Y…you know, I’ve given much thought to the past. After all, my future has just arrived.” He swallowed. “There should be no secret between friends, and…and after all you’ve done for me, y…you deserve to know every possible truth I can offer.” He paused as if the world hung upon his next words. “It…I…it’s a peculiar admission, yet years ago…well, ah, you’re aware Xenia and I weren’t particularly fond of…oh, apologies, may I utter her name? F…forgive me. She was a…a complicated woman…and I…she treated me…ah…that is to say-”
“You tasked Hesin to spy upon her,” Dominax interrupted coldly. “I’m aware.”
“Y…you knew?” Stunned, Lalian stepped back. “Forgive me, yet if I knew his investigations would lead to her death, I-”
“You initiated the discovery of her horrid secret.” Dominax scowled as if the memory tasted like ash upon his tongue. “Don’t apologize.”
Frozen for a moment, Lalian blinked. “All these years, and y…you made no mention of it.”
“Nothing occurs within the walls of Domani that does not reach my ear eventually.” He gestured for the green man to return to his side. “You’ve earned my trust tenfold since that vile day. There was no need to breathe life into past misdeeds.”
A smile couldn’t help but jab through Lalian’s misgivings. A deep weight had left his shoulders, relinquishing a decades-long burden to the jungle floor below.
The unnatural silence from all directions save for the city’s heart was a reminder of their precarious control, yet even amidst a sea of enemies, Lalian found himself savoring the humid air as if he had been reborn.
“Return when you’re able, my friend.” Dominax turned after a long moment and began to stride away. “In this place, we must enjoy every victory.”
40th of Fonic, 19 AVE.
Kingdom of Lian, Praith.
The wooden planks of the platform creaked under Salduin’s weight as he walked, easily keeping up with Jinilya’s frantic pace as she hurriedly led him along, a small hand gripping a large one. “Careful, Jin.”
The young princess nearly tripped in her eagerness. It was as if she wanted to see every inch of the city after being restricted to the royal stronghold for so long. Now, under the protection of guards and her father, she eyed the strange population with curiosity as they passed by, held back by the stern blades of the legion. She seemed enthralled by the control of her grandfather’s warriors, watching them carefully direct foot traffic and pacify any resistance. Most Lanthians kept their heads low and their eyes lower, yet whenever a brave woman occasionally hurled a scowl towards the conquering royal, she offered a smirk in return.
Her father saw little but the surrounding jungle, for Salduin inhaled the exotic smell of the trees. The murmurings and distant commanding shouts faintly touched his awareness as he simply enjoyed the various chirping and buzzing echoing through the branches from afar. Life bloomed all around him, and he said a silent prayer to The Creator before sighing peacefully.
“Why don’t they have wings?” Jinilya asked, pointing to a group of nearby slaves on their way to harvest Lapal fruit, bulbous blue fruit that grew only from the highest branches above the city. The walkway seemed to be divided in two, half for the legion, and half for the population, separated by white blades and shields of cautious legionaries.
Salduin granted the men a grim nod. “They’re slaves, Jin.”
“Ah.” She shrugged. “Perhaps they don’t deserve to fly, then.”
“Now, Jin, that’s hardly fair.” Salduin frowned. “These men were doomed from their birth. Under our rule, all slaves have a chance to rise from-”
“Daddy!” Jinilya pointed. “Fire!”
Looking far ahead through the trees, Salduin saw smoke beginning to rise in the distance. His jaw tightened as he reached for his hammer. “Come. It’s time to return to-” He watched as flames erupted from a cluster of buildings nearby, across the gapping gap stretching forth from the edge of their walkway. He quickly swept Jinilya into his arms, seeing a group of Lanthian’s with golden spears fly through the branches far ahead.
The legionaries readied their blades, holding back the population as screams and shouts erupted among them in response. Many cheered as another group of warriors swept down from the air to hurl spears into the ranks of gathering white cloaks in the distance, while multiple columns of smoke began to rise throughout the city.
“Lord Salduin, come!” A commander hurried to his side, guarding the princess with his shield. “You must get back to the stronghold at once! We’ll-”
Bravery spread like a swift fog through the population until they began to push against the wall of legionaries, sending a cacophony of agonized screams to bleed through the once tranquil air as many were cut down. They chanted in their native tongue, their strange voices carrying vengeance as they grasped at the legion’s spears and sharp blades. The bravest of the women flapped their wings and attacked from above and behind, only to be swiftly skewered by spears.
Salduin opened his mouth to seize command over all nearby legionaries, only to peer down at Jinilya’s terrified expression. Knowing no other duty was more important, he relinquished his authority to the commander before hurrying to retreat, clutching his daughter protectively to his broad chest.
He pushed through the chaos as the riot’s fervor threatened to shatter the wall of white cloaks, shoving aside legionaries who were far too preoccupied to notice his approach, while others eagerly parted to permit him through. The guards that had been tasked with protecting Jinilya for the day struggled to follow, blades ready.
A large hand covered the princess’s eyes to shield her from the sight of corpses. A woman rushed forward, driving a hidden dagger into the neck of the nearest guard. Weapons thought to have been confiscated suddenly sprouted from shadows, while most of the population fought with fists and hands grasping desperately to spill human blood.
Fires burned and arrows rained in the distance as unrest spilled over. Legionaries were dragged to the ground. Conquerors were trampled while white swords butchered a vengeful population.
Salduin held Jinilya with one large arm as he brought his hammer to bear, forcing his way through the battle as he fought his way towards safety. The guards behind began to fall away one by one, some forced to fight for their lives, while others lost sight of their princess in the chaos.
A swarm of white and green fought all around, and as Salduin found himself among more Lanthians than legionaries, he stumbled into a human woman clutching at a missing eye, sending her toppling to the ground while his hammer was knocked from his grasp. He reached down, only for a flash of pain to rip through his head as a green fist struck his jaw.
Grunting, he watched someone kick the hammer from his grasp before he could recover. Hurrying to his full height, he dropped Jinilya carefully before forcing her behind him, guarding her with his powerful body as a group of slaves surrounded them. Retreating a step, he found there was nowhere to go, for the railing was just behind.
“I know this human,” one of the slaves said clumsily in the imperial tongue, sneering. “Ah yes, yes we know these humans.”
The others muttered in their native language, hate in their eyes. One carried a dagger, while the others appeared ready to tear the large man apart. Salduin straightened, an arm holding Jinilya back. “Stay behind me.”
Only the first to speak seemed to understand his words. The slave took a step closer as shouts continued to echo all around. “The granddaughter and advisor to the vile conqueror.”
“Leave us,” Salduin nearly growled. “I don’t want to harm a slave.”
“Kill them, daddy!” Jinilya demanded from behind.
Salduin met the slave with a deadly gaze. “The battle for Praith is done. I won’t harm you unless I must.”
The man disregarded him, taking another step. “Your master showed no such mercy when he butchered our Priarch. Yes. Alinan was one of us.” His words were nearly too accented to understand. “The conqueror thought himself untouchable.” He punched Salduin hard. “Look! You’re not. She’s not.”
Tasting blood, Salduin’s hard expression only grew firmer. “Leave. My. Daughter. Alone.”
“You’re going to suffer before we’re done.” The slave threw another hard punch. “For Alinan!”
Spitting blood, Salduin bared his teeth. “Fine.” As the slave readied for another hit, he caught the green man’s fist. A hard twist coaxed a loud snap. A howl of pain erupted from the slave as he fell back.
Momentarily stunned, the rest rushed forth. Salduin kicked back the closest man before ramming his fist into the throat of another. He roared, seizing a skinny arm before breaking it over his knee.
Untrained in combat, the slaves fought clumsily, their numbers their only advantage. Salduin held them back with a savage fury, every movement and strike for Jinilya. His large form was hardly nimble, age slowing him slightly, yet he endured every painful strike while hearing the crack of bones and scattering of teeth with each of his own punches. Knuckles bleeding, he sidestepped a thrust from the only blade, disarming the man before hauling him over the edge of the railing.
A scream from behind nearly stopped his heart, whirling around to watch a slave snatch a handful of Jinilya’s long hair from the side as she tried to run. As the man yanked her backwards, Salduin rushed forward with a roar that offered no mercy as he drove the dagger deep into the slave’s eye socket, wrenching his daughter away.
Once more she screamed at his side. Rather than terror, her shriek was one of fury, small hands thrusting forward. Salduin watched as her silver eyes glowed brightly, instinctually shielding his own as blinding arcs of lightning tore through the air. They ripped through all in their path, electricity seizing their remaining attackers in a rippling web. The smell of charred skin filled the air as they collapsed, little more than limp flesh.
Everyone nearby turned at the flash of light. Everyone regarded her with wide glances of terror. She sent another arc into a group of Lanthians before Salduin swept her off her feet, snatching his hammer before running with all his strength. Many fled in terror of the girl’s power while the rest continued to fight. The riots raged as Salduin swung his hammer, taking down anyone that stood in their path. This was no time for mercy. This was no time for restraint. It pained him as his hammer crushed the skull of an unarmed slave, yet he merely gritted his teeth. “Close your eyes, Jin!”
The princess merely clung to his tunic with one hand and sent bursts of fire and electricity with the other, a bloodthirsty scowl upon her once innocent features.
As they fought their way along the walkway, they reached the heart of the city, finding walls upon walls of guards holding back the chaos. They parted quickly, ushering the royal advisor and the princess to safety.
“By The Creator, what happened?” Salduin demanded as they were frantically guided towards the royal stronghold.
They watched Privictis Knights throw fire into the crowds, holding them back as the nearest commander answered. “A raid from the neighboring cities sparked riots across the city!”
Salduin watched lightning rippling in the distance, seeing flying Lanthians fall from the sky as The God Emperor tore them down. Hurrying into the building, the large man wrapped Jinilya into a protective embrace.
***
Only after the sun had set and the jungle fell into darkness did the riots cease. The dead filled the streets as the legion fought to restore some semblance of order. Though fires continued to burn well into the night, much of the fighting had been stamped out by the time Vixin returned to the stronghold.
Entering, she immediately rushed to Jinilya’s room, feeling the deepest relief of her existence as she found her daughter sleeping in Salduin’s arms. Hurrying to the chair in which the large man sat, she wrapped them both in a tight embrace. “They said…I thought you were still out and I…I searched the city…and-”
“She’s alright, Vixin.” Salduin caressed their daughter, his battered knuckles wrapped in bandages by a healer. “You should rest. For your baby.”
Sighing, she rested her head on his shoulder, calming herself.
“We should cut her hair,” Salduin interrupted after a long moment. “At least short enough that it can’t be easily grabbed.”
Eying him with confusion, she wasn’t certain she wanted to ask. “What happened?”
“Rest, Vixin.” He pulled her closer, kissing her brow. “She’s safe. That’s all you need to concern yourself with for the moment.”
As she reluctantly let the matter drop, he couldn’t help but study their daughter with concern. The memory of her lightning flashed through his thoughts. Unseen blood stained her hand. He said a silent prayer, and with a whisper too quiet to hear, he sighed. “I’m sorry, Jin.”
48th of Fonic, 19 AVE.
Kingdom of Lian, Praith.
Irith couldn’t sleep. As she stared at the darkness of the ceiling above, alone in her bed, she didn’t think of the recent riots. She didn’t think of the raids that now seemed to occur daily as small groups of neighboring Lanthians attacked without warning before dissolving into the trees just as quickly. Only a single thought filled her mind, replaying over and over until she thought she’d lose herself.
“What is he doing to Arinax?”
The young prince had departed hours ago at his father’s side. She picked at her nails with worry, every minute seeming like an eternity as the night dragged on.
She should go to sleep, she knew. Every day seemed busier as they fought to maintain control. Instead, she wanted to scream, feeling helpless. Where had they gone? What cruelty did Dominax seek to train him in this time?
Only Zela and the baby that rested in the corner of the room found sleep. Nafalya’s firstborn, the subtle sound of his soft breathing disquieted her further. They had been so quick to discard him, caring only for Atrix. Only she had spoken up. Only she had convinced Dominax to keep their first grandson together from the grasp of strangers. Was this the family she envisioned when she joined his side? She frowned.
Only when the door creaked open did she break from her thoughts. Sitting up, she hurried to her son’s side the moment Arinax entered, finding him alone.
“Mother…” he muttered as she wrapped him in a tight hug. A sharp wince stole her attention, watching him shield his ribs. Silently demanding an explanation, she heard a quiver in his tone. “We…we dueled.” Arinax swallowed. “I…lost.”
Gritting her teeth, she held him close in the darkness as she had so many times before. It was a battle to part from him, and harder still to offer a comforting smile. “It’s been a long day for both of us. Come. Let me put you to sleep before the night is done.”
The prince obeyed. She chose to ignore the sight of a slight limp as he found his way into the small bed beside his sister. Biting her lip, she feared she’d draw blood, calming herself with a breath that sounded more like a sigh of defeat. She pulled the silky sheets over his body and granted him a kiss, caressing dark hair that reminded her of Dominax.
“Mother?” he ventured to ask, his tone hardly more than a fearful whisper. His silver eyes looked away. “Does father…love me?”
The question burned in her chest as she held him close. “Of course he does. He cares for you and your sisters above all else. Never doubt that.” She fought to keep her voice calm.
“Why does he…” Arinax winced with pain as he shifted in bed. Irith held him tighter.
“All he does is to strengthen you,” she said softly. Despite the boy’s pain, her own was tenfold as she hardly stomached the words. “The training of your sisters Cendra and Vixin was hardly gentle, yet you hold a far greater responsibility.” She had heard Dominax’s explanations enough. “He’s…he’s trying to strengthen you, to ensure you survive as the next God Emperor. Do you understand?”
Unwilling to look at her, he merely nodded after a moment before turning away. She felt a dampness in her eyes.
“You’re failing him again,” she thought to herself. “Every night you permit him to come to harm, even for his own good, you fail him once more.”
***
The sun rose soon after, yet she almost wished it hadn’t. The morning would bring a battle, she had decided. Not between humans and Lanthians, but between The God Emperor and his Concubine.
Rubbing her eyes as she heard the knock of a guard, she looked over and found herself alone in bed once more. Perhaps it was for the best that Dominax seemed to require increasingly less sleep, for had he been at her side now, her control may have slipped. She peered at Arinax’s slumbering form as she quickly dressed herself, feeling her anger rising until it threatened to strangle her.
“His holiness has summoned all advisors to the war room, my lady,” the guard announced with a low bow.
“Keep an eye on the children,” she replied before departing. It was a useless command, for the man had already obeyed by securing the door before claiming a protective stance outside the royal quarters, yet somehow the words reassured her in this dangerous place.
She followed the hallway down a flight of stairs, hearing the wood creak. It was a quieter sound than when they had first moved in, for much of the rotting building had been refurbished and reinforced with new wood, replacing the old. Making her way to the first level, she stopped outside a large door of human construction, taking a long breath as she ignored the guards. A moment was required to conceal her rage, holding it deep as she forced a smile to her lips. Finally, when she was ready, she stepped forth as the guards opened the door.
Hardly was she the first inside. Cendra, Vixin, and Nafalya waited with the royal advisors, save for Lalian. The new father was a moment delayed, his smile beaming as he entered a moment before Prince Fonax and King Galis. Every royal came accompanied by guards, never daring to walk the streets with less than a dozen white cloaks surrounding them, else they discover a Lanthian dagger at their throats.
The High Lords were no different. Many had been permitted to stay behind to oversee the rapid development of their cities and Districts, choosing instead to aid the conquest with their wealth and warriors, for the blossoming of The Empire held importance above all else. Others sent their sons and daughters to find glory in their stead. They seemed to arrive day after day, and Irith noticed Drivis, heir to Omrin and son of Lady Dunith, enter, finding a place at the back. High Lady Vora of The Tarin District and Lord Monil of The City of Avila arrived shortly after, and she had been relieved when they received word that High Lord Linnax of The Valia District had sent supplies rather than himself. She didn’t need another enemy at her side this morning.
Dominax leaned over the round table as he regarded the group. He placed his sword carefully in the center. “The jungle tests us. Today, we strike back.”
They gathered closely around the table as the projection of the globe emerged from the sword, focusing upon the vast land surrounding Praith. The God Emperor nodded to Nafalya. “Go on. Reveal what I told you.”
Her mask concealed her emotion, yet Irith could hear the hints of her satisfaction as she spoke. “House Vaid shall continue to reinforce Praith against the persistence raids from our neighbors while two additional forces shall be formed. One army shall march to claim Hainath, securing our supply lines, and another shall press deeper into Lanthian territory to conquer Tempian.”
Small discussions mingled among the group. Irith hardly heard them, focusing upon Dominax with a false smile. When she looked at Nafalya at his side, she felt her anger dim, if only a little. They had created a superb beauty together. A faint dampness wetted Nafalya’s thong, her body language showing hints of arousal as she pressed close to her father like an obedient pet. A memory of the man she loved flowed through Irith’s thoughts as she studied their daughter’s feminine curves with a subtle pride. “Dominax,” she thought with longing. “What’s become of us? Where have you gone?”
It wasn’t long before Fonax stepped forth. “Permit me to command the force that shall pierce The Lanthian Empire at Tempian, your holiness. Have I ever failed you in battle?”
The God Emperor chuckled, deep words oozing from his lips. “My boy, your skill is precisely why I’ve already chosen you to lead the force against Hainath instead. Our position is precarious, and should Praith fall in our absence when we push deeper into the jungle, we’ll be cut off from The Empire in a land we hardly know and surrounded by enemies. That won’t do. You must bring me Hainath quickly.”
Fonax opened his mouth to debate, pondered a moment, and bowed. “Ah, very well, your holiness. Who is the unfortunate soul that must march against Tempian?”
Dominax eyed Clin. “Our High Peacekeeper has served me far longer than you, child. The path ahead is perilous, and I need a calm and rational hand to guide my blades toward Tempian.”
Stunned, Clin merely bowed his head. “I’ll do what I can for the men under my command, though without knowing where the burial chamber of Tempian rests, the battle ahead will be…harsh.”
Cendra listened to the men talk about strategy for a moment, waiting for her opportunity. She calmed a subtle tremble of her hand, despising her fear. Finally, as Clin and Fonax settled their plans, she straightened proudly. “Father, I’d like to lead a command of my own. Again.”
Dominax regarded her as if she had claimed the sky was purple. “No.”
The single word was a cold dagger to her chest. She felt her strength begin to falter, swallowing as she felt the gaze of all in the room upon her. “I won’t deny what occurred in…Kisrin, yet permit me another chance, and I’ll-”
“No.” The word was as firm as the first. “You’re not yet ready, my flower.”
She found herself despising the attention of the others. Opening her mouth to speak, she stopped to clear her throat when she found a slight quiver to her voice as her features hardened. “I’ve learned much in the time since my defeat. The progress of the Knights I trained by my own hand stands as proof.” She wouldn’t say please. She wouldn’t beg. Not here. Not in front of them all. “I ask only for a second chance, father.”
“So you’ll have it, yet not in this terrible place. We face enemies we hardly understand, save for the knowledge provided by two allies. I won’t risk losing you a second time until I’m certain of your victory.”
“Yet Nafalya-”
“No, Cendra.” The God Emperor’s voice came as a command, permitting no debate.
She blinked, lips tight. When it was clear she would offer no reply, the conversation moved on without her. She stared at the floor, silver eyes dim. Finally, fading back to the rear of the chamber, Cendra swiftly departed the room without another word.
Vixin bit her lip. Near The God Emperor, Clin could do little but watch with concern. Vixin made her decision as she stepped towards the door, only for her father’s booming voice to stop her.
“Leave her,” he commanded, interrupting Fonax. “Grant her time.”
Vixin reluctantly obeyed. Irith saw the conflict in her features as she remained, a mirror of her own. She yearned to hurry after Cendra, to comfort her, yet her false smile grew firm. Another battle lay ahead first.
“What of the raids? The riots?” Galis dared to ask quietly when the conversation slowed once more. His arms were folded across his narrow chest, unable to meet the gaze of anyone around him. “We…passed by the corpses of slaves today. Several. Discarded in the street.”
Dominax’s expression soured. He gestured to Salduin, his demanding fingers summoning the large man to his side. His wounds had been tended to in the days following the riots, leaving bruises to paint his features in unpleasant shades. “You’ve all witnessed the horrors this city has offered in resistance. Praith reached out and dared to threaten my granddaughter. No other punishments than those it has already suffered were sufficient.”
Hesin listened silently. In the wake of the first riots, his commands had been swift and severe. Truthseekers had dragged the oldest and most revered corpse from the burial chamber before hacking its preserved flesh to pieces before the crowds, protected behind the legion surrounding the heart of the city. Another was brought forth, a threat, forcing shouts of surrender and demands for peace to spread gradually throughout Praith. As word of the threat swept through the streets, the women surrendered, and the slaves were easily pacified as green blood filled stained wooden walkways.
“To lay a hand upon an imperial advisor is to lay a hand upon the throne itself. They’ve learned the limits of our mercy.” Dominax’s voice filled the chamber like a menacing fog. “Mere clusters of resistance remain, flaring to live each time they taste the hope offered by a new raid, yet they fall by the day.”
“I’ve given the legion commands to avoid harming anyone who doesn’t present a clear danger,” Clin added. “Unfortunately, as you’ve seen…danger lurks in every shadow.”
They could almost hear Hesin’s sneer. “The cure for shadows is to burn them away. Salduin saw the result of leniency. He felt it too, as did his daughter.” He nodded towards the large man. “We’re pleased she was unharmed, of course, but we allowed the Lanthians too close.”
“What do you suggest? That we lock every citizen inside their home? That we cut down anyone who dares to offer the smallest challenge?” Clin asked. “What message does that send the world?”
“We won’t be trifled with. That is our message.” Only Hesin’s eye behind his mask showed any hint of emotion, squinting. “When a city threatens the life of a royal, a hand must wrap around its throat. I won’t have them believe they can touch my own son without losing all they cling to.”
Nafalya’s smooth voice came forth. “All dwellings have been searched, and searched again. Truthseekers report whispers of resistance, and the legion’s blades distribute justice in response. You advise burning away the shadows, master, yet they’re our greatest advantage.”
As Hesin nodded with a metallic chuckle, Fonax tapped the pommel of the sword hanging from his belt. “You may cut down every Lanthian in this city, yet it’d accomplish nothing so long as the raids continue to weaken us.”
Clin pointed to several areas on the towering globe. “Our scouts claim to have witnessed messengers flying from city to city, each one from The Capital. If the queen of Lian is the source of these raids, only the fall of The Capital will put an end to their efforts.”
“High Miarch,” Lalian corrected politely. “She has limited power over the Miarchs beneath her, yet when an unwanted foreign force pushes into Lanthian lands, they’re all too eager to join their warriors to a common cause.”
“Your mate stated she knows where the burial chamber of The Capital is located,” Hesin noted.
Lalian nodded. “Anthara will provide detailed directions should we be forced to besiege The Capital. They’ll expect our Truthseekers this time, of…of course. Take it by force, however, and all of Lian shall lower their weapons as Praith did. The Capital was the first city of Lian. They have a…a singular attachment to the bodies preserved there, their ancestors, older than all others.”
“In time.” Dominax gestured to the globe. “Tempian shall bring us closer, a stronghold from which we shall strike at The Capital. Without it, however, we’d march with an enemy city at our rear, begging for their blades in our backs.”
Irith didn’t say a word as conversations once more broke out. She stood still, a calm statue with a rage burning inside as the others divided their duties. When at last their plans were settled, she waited as Dominax dismissed them to begin preparations for the coming battles. Her own war sat behind her unsteady smile.
The God Emperor returned The Sword of Order to his hip as the others drained from the chamber. When the last had gone, Irith closed the door behind them, remaining. He granted her a curious glance.
Striding towards him, her smile fell to reveal her rage as her open hand moved swiftly to strike him. Dominax caught her wrist. Her other hand attacked instead. It’d be a simple thing to permit a slap, to bear her rage, yet he caught the other as well, denying her the satisfaction as he gripped her tightly.
“Have you lost your mind?”
“I’ve regained it, for I was a fool to stand by as you tortured our son! How dare you!”
His face hardened with displeasure. “That matter has been settled.”
“No longer!” She struggled to break free, to strike him, yet his grip grew painful around her wrists until she winced. “He’s only a boy!”
“A boy, yes! I’ll make him a god.” He watched her anger give way to a dampness in her deep blue eyes as his hold offered no mercy. “You know the necessity of his training. You know what must be done.”
“I can’t stand it any longer!” She gave a final tug. Surrendering, she rubbed her wrists after he released her. “I can’t stand when he’s scared, or in pain, or cold, or…or…”
He moved to embrace her. She pulled back.
“Name another your heir.” She wiped her eyes. “You know Cendra would give much to inherit the throne. Or Vixin, for she proved herself to be a capable ruler in our absence. I’d rather see Arinax live the peaceful existence of a farmer, or sailor, or any life that takes him far from the throne. If the price of power is his pain, I’d rather see him live in peace without it.”
Disgust was visible upon Dominax’s lips at the thought. “You know that cannot occur.”
“Your vision. I know.” Her words still held her accent, yet after all the years she had served at his side, the remaining remnants of her former homeland had gradually begun to fade. “You saw him accept your throne. You saw him old and strong.”
“I saw my death.”
The statement hung in the air, softening her rage despite her efforts. “My love?”
“A whisper of the future, lying upon the bed that sits this very moment in the royal bedchamber of The Grand Pyramid. I saw myself granting The Sword of Order sword into Arinax’s grasp.” He closed his eyes for a moment, remembering every detail. “A brief glimpse, a flash, nothing more.”
She dared to step closer. “Are you certain?”
Silver eyes glowed as he pondered, only to shake his head. “In truth, even Dorian has offered his doubts. Yet if a single possibility of bringing forth such a future remains, I shall bend the world to claim it. A peaceful death after a long rule, the world remade, the population shielded from chaos by my Eternal Peace. If such things cannot be, my purpose has failed.”
Irith saw flickers of the man she loved in his gaze when the glow of his eyes dimmed with sorrow. “I’ve fought at your side for two decades to see those aims manifest. I built a family with you. I forgave your…harsher tendencies, focusing upon what we created together. Now, if I must continue to sacrifice my only son to remain at your side…”
He saw the agony upon her beautiful features. He claimed her hands in his, sensing her vigorous health. She had given her youth to his service. She had matured, aging gracefully, as strong and sensual as the day he met her, yet she was still mortal. She had to understand. “Our son stands to live for hundreds of years, long after even I am gone. In all that time you’d have him…farm?”
“If he may live peacefully, yes.” She stood defiantly.
“There shall be no peace without him at my side. The vision was a victory. Any other future is a risk. I saw myself granting the sword to a man capable of continuing my Eternal Peace, a man I must build from the boy we have now.” Dominax gritted his teeth. “You’ve seen the chaos of the world. Should The Empire fall upon my death, none shall be safe.”
Irith wanted to step closer at the sound of pain in his tone, yet she held back, her rage simmering. “I know what you lost, my love, and I know what you fear to lose again. I stood among the ruins of Nitri at your side. Yet while seeking to protect your family, don’t destroy it. Please.”
“You know little.” He scowled as he looked away. “I once dreamt long ago that I had never left Nitri. I dreamt we had never been attacked. You know me well. What did I find?”
Irith could offer little.
“Peace. I saw the life Dorian had craved for me, simplicity, contentment, a family.” The memory of the dream tasted bitter. “I woke up after I lost them once more. The world shall try to take Arinax as well, no doubt. We have a fearful boy. Untrained, he shall die.”
She grimaced, feeling trapped, wanting to scream. “I’ll defend him. I’ll fight for him until my last breath.”
“And after you’ve taken that final breath, who’ll stand between him and chaos? What of his children? His children’s children?” Dominax gestured with a sweep of his hand as if the world rested at his fingertips. “What of them? What of the countless beings beneath my control? I have filled this world with my descendants, yet a misstep shall doom them to the whims of lesser rulers, war, bloodshed, and cruelty. Only The Empire provides the stability necessary to protect them. Every horrid deed that stains my hands prevents millennia of others.”
She had heard it all before. “And if your vision was wrong? Will you torture your son for the mere promise of a shapeless dream?”
The God Emperor offered no doubt. “Yes.” He watched her pull away. “He shall learn to defend himself. He shall learn to banish his fear. He shall grow accustomed to pain until none may ever bring him down again. I shall ensure our son survives, Irith.”
Blinking away tears, she folded her arms. “I want him to live, my love. More than anything, I want him to be safe. Yet I…can’t endure another night knowing I’m failing him. I won’t.”
He attempted to pull her close once more. When she resisted, he forced her against him, hearing an unsteady sigh as she surrendered and rested her head against his shoulder.
“He shall live, my love. Hate me for what I must do, as he surely will, yet he’ll live. I promise you that.” Dominax’s voice oozed into her ear, deep and inhuman. “I shall bleed this world to remake it. I shall break Arinax to forge him anew. Endure for me. Endure so our son may outlive us all.”
Irith felt tears trickling down her cheeks. Could she? If only a little longer?
When at last she restrained her tears, she parted from him. There’d be no victory here. “I must tend to Cendra. Please, for Arinax’s sake, proceed gently, else you may lose him too.”
Dominax permitted her to go. When she got to the door, however, she stopped.
“I’ve loved you for twenty years. I’ve been at your side all this time. You fear to lose your family again, yet we are your family now.” Her deep blue eyes regarded him with sorrow. “Remember that, my love.”
Without another word, she left him alone.
3rd of Fixuin, 19 AVE.
Kingdom of Lian, Praith.
“It’s such a shame.” Vixin ran her fingers through Jinilya’s silky back hair, cut to chin length.
Yisi tilted her head, an expressionless face concealing a faint smile. “I find it quite pretty, actually.”
Jinilya reached to pick up a handful of the strands that had been cut. Her hair appeared much like her mother’s, yet it concealed her forehead. The cut hair in her grasp ignited, burning away to ash. She no longer laughed at the sight of her fire, watching the flame dance with a distant gaze.
Only when Salduin entered did she look away with a smile. Inside the chamber Vixin had made her temporary quarters, she chuckled as their daughter ran to be swept up in the large man’s arms.
“Beautiful,” he said with a grin, tousling her hair. A grim look passed quickly as he reached back, testing the ease at which one could grab her. “Could be shorter.”
“No further,” Vixin demanded, putting away the dagger. She cradled her belly beneath the thin fabric of a silky shroud that flowed from her bare shoulders as her pregnancy neared its ending. Yisi’s was a mirror to her, practically glowing with a maternal beauty she despised, while Vixin delighted in the sight.
The princess granted her daughter a departing kiss. She shared a glance with Salduin, nodding. The large man hardly went more than an hour with Jinilya out of his sight following the first riot, and at night, he protected her in his own personal quarters until the sun rose. Vixin’s room was as safe as any in the stronghold, yet if there was one man she trusted to guard her legacy, it was Salduin.
Saying their goodbyes for the night, Vixin watched them go, her smile fading the moment the door sealed shut. She covered her mouth gently, pondering, trying her best to refrain from worrying.
“She’s safe, Vixin.” Yisi hesitated before taking the princess’s hand.
The princess nodded. Taking a breath, she forced her worries aside. “I suppose she is.” Looking over, she tried to smile at the sight of Yisi’s pregnancy. “You’ll know how it feels to worry soon.”
Yisi scowled. “I don’t need…this thing to make me worry for Jin.” She gestured beneath her own shroud. “You weren’t the only one that searched for hours.”
“Forgive me.” Vixin pressed her lips to hers. The taste was as familiar as always, sister against sister, shared blood tingling. “You’re already a mother.”
The words coaxed a frown to the girl’s tight lips. “I don’t know what I’m doing.”
Leading her by the hand, Vixin brought her to their bed. Of human construction, the soft white sheets flickered in the dim candlelight. “Nor does anyone.”
The shroud trickled down Yisi’s svelte curves as she was guided to sit down. “You said Jin likes me. Do you think she…I mean, does she…love me?”
“You fool.” Vixin kissed her softly. “Of course.” Standing before her, she caressed her lover’s pregnant belly. “As will our second daughter.”
Yisi tried not to blush. Her thighs parted further as Vixin stood between them.
“Though I must say, I’m going to miss this adorable swell.” Vixin made her way down, kissing the girl’s belly.
“Don’t…mock me.” She felt her chest flutter at her lover’s touch, fingers obsessing over her form. The shroud was pulled aside, toppling from her shoulders. Her modest breasts appeared ready for her approaching baby, perky and firm.
“I’m quite serious.” Vixin licked her soft skin, silver eyes looking up to meet her sensually. “If I could watch father put another in you, I would.”
Yisi’s cheeks darkened further as she scowled. “Perhaps then he’d grant me more than an occasional glance.”
Frowning, Vixin ran a hand up the girl’s thigh, feeling as if she touched the finest silk in all of The Empire. “He cares for you, Yisi. Never forget. Remember whose baby grows in your womb.”
She tried to discard the statement with a scowl, only for her lips to part as seeking fingers brushed her sex. Delicate pink folds were at her lover’s mercy as she quivered. “Any pretty girl that gets too close finds his baby inside them. I-”
A finger brushed her sensitive bud, lightly rubbing it in gentle circles. Vixin chuckled as Yisi’s thighs tried to close, holding them apart. “Yet none are granted the purpose he gave you.” Watching her squirm, she felt the girl’s juices at her fingertips. “Besides, you’ve forgotten an important note. Despite your worries, despite your doubts, despite his affections, I love you. His baby grows in your womb, but this body is mine.”
Yisi covered her mouth as a finger slid inside, followed by a second. It was a difficult thing to rip a moan from her, fighting to keep it inside, yet Vixin’s touch always seemed to know precisely how to make her melt.
Kneeling, the princess kissed up her inner thigh. When she reached the top, she started again from the knee. Yisi’s legs began to quiver after a few rounds, the fingers inside the tight prize between her thighs feeling her damp need growing with every minute.
Finally pulling free, her tongue met the girl’s waiting loins. Vixin savored her juices, hands caressing her parted legs. “I can’t wait to watch this pretty vagina give birth,” she said, pausing for only a moment to speak.
Yisi’s eyes clenched shut as she enjoyed the sensation, unable to prevent a moan. Her misgivings swirled inside her, held back only by pleasure. “V…Vixin…”
The tip of her tongue traced the girl’s labia, tasting her sweet folds before focusing upon her clit. Her hands reached up to explore Yisi’s belly. “I remember when he came inside of you.” She licked again before pausing. “I remember how his seed leaked from this gorgeous cunny.”
“Please…don’t…speak of-” Yisi felt her tongue flick back and forth across her clit, making her groan.
“I remember your adorable moans.” Her hand dragged over her swell. “Oh…I remember how jealous I felt when father made you cum!”
Yisi bucked her hips involuntarily. “Stop…”
“What did you call him when he filled you with his warm seed?” Vixin looked up with a devious smile as her juices dripped from her chin. “Daddy?”
Yisi squeezed her thighs around Vixin’s head, moaning, embarrassment flushing her cheeks with a deep red. She nearly whimpered as the princess eagerly worked until her body began to tighten.
Trapped, Vixin held the girl’s thighs, licking vigorously. She didn’t need to breathe. She didn’t need to ever be free again. All she craved was to make her solemn girl scream.
She couldn’t help but hold onto Vixin’s head for support as she endured. Her silky hair was identical to her own, inescapable reminders of their father. The word ran through her memory again. “Daddy.” Arching her back, she orgasmed.
Vixin lapped as her spasming loins in a hopeless attempt to taste every drop of her intoxicating juices. When at last Yisi’s legs parted, she offered no restraint, standing as her fingers returned to replace her mouth. “There’s no shame. I’ve uttered far worse with him between my legs. He certainly knows what he’s doing,” Vixin said with a chuckle. She lightly played between Yisi’s thighs before mounting the bed to join her, guiding her into the center.
“I didn’t say…I mean, I only said…” Flustered, Yisi looked away.
“Don’t be coy.” Vixin knelt between her legs once more, continuing her work. Her other hand caressed Yisi’s pregnancy as a deep craving filled her silver gaze. “Besides, even if you think it’s a curse, I’ll accept this gift we were granted that night.”
Yisi moaned as Vixin leaned over to kiss her belly. The touch of her affection was nearly more than she could endure. She wanted to die, to melt into Vixin’s arms, to ride far away on Kixsi.
“Father gave us another daughter, sweet girl.” Vixin’s fingers worshiped her pregnant swell, sensually kissing her soft skin. “Jin’s sister will be our sister by blood. Isn’t that amusing? Or…intriguing?”
“Don’t…ahh…remind me…” Yisi groaned.
The sight of her was an artwork Vixin wanted to remember until her final days. Svelte and slim, her alluring body had hardly changed during her pregnancy, much like Vixin’s own. Certainly a gift of their blood, they endured few of the burdens of ordinary pregnant women. Yisi’s pregnancy was a round swell, complementing her form with a youthful maternal beauty, forcing a dampness to form between Vixin’s thighs whenever she saw her.
She could hear the wet sounds of her fingers inside Yisi. “Why not? We’ve both carried his children. Can’t I reminisce about how deep he came inside of you?”
“Stop…please…” Yisi felt as if her cheeks burned with embarrassment. The memory only made her moan louder, surprising herself. She tried to banish the thoughts. Every caress, however, was a reminder of what had occurred, feeling his baby in her womb.
“You’ve made me proud, enduring his touch and enduring your pregnancy.” Vixin peered at her, sincere, her sensual teasing vanishing for a brief moment. When it returned, she grinned deviously. “I’ll reward you every day after you’ve given birth. I’ll thank this petite vagina for giving us another daughter with my tongue until it’s too sensitive to endure. I’ll make you cum like father did when his potent seed poured into your fertile little body.” Her fingers quickened. “Go on. Cum for me again.”
Looking down, Yisi watched Vixin lick up her belly. Moaning, she threw her head back, bracing for another finish. She fought to get the memory from her mind. Her thoughts stubbornly clung to what she feared the most, remembering the warmth of his seed inside her, remembering Vixin begging him to get her pregnant, remembering her own moans as she surrendered to his cock. Worst of all, she remembered how safe she felt in his grasp.
A cry ripped from her quiet mouth as her body seized. Vixin hurried to lower herself, careful of her own pregnancy as she maneuvered her face between the girl’s trembling thighs. Tongue out, her hand flicked wildly back and forth over Yisi’s clit, making her hips buck.
The princess licked at her reward. The taste was only what a Vaidspawn could offer, sweeter than any fruit upon Magnius. She knew her own loins tasted identical.
When at last Yisi fell limp, her body quivering as remnants of her pleasure continued to send pulses through her loins, Vixin found her way to her lover’s side. She pulled her close with a kiss.
They savored each other’s presence as she recovered. When Vixin sensed a subtle hint of shame easing through Yisi, she caressed her cheek. “I mean what I said. I’m proud of what you’ve endured.”
“It’s not too late,” Yisi replied as she looked away. “We have a few more days at least before we’re both too pregnant to travel. We could still mount Kixsi and ride away.”
Vixin chuckled. When she saw the urgency in the girl’s gaze, her smile dampened. “You know how I feel. We can’t.”
“This is our last chance. When it arrives…” She grimaced, a hand on her stomach. “When she arrives, it’ll be too late. She’ll be his.”
“There are worse fates than becoming a concubine of The God Emperor.”
“He’ll…” Yisi scowled. “Let’s go. Let’s run away.”
“He’ll get her pregnant, as he did us. He’ll get her daughter pregnant too, and so on. All the while, we’ll be right at her side. There’s little to fear.”
“There’s everything to fear.” Yisi held her closer. “If we leave, we can go anywhere in the world. We can do anything we’d like. If we stay…”
“If we stay, I’ll remain a princess, as will my daughter.” Vixin frowned. “Please, I told you it’s impossible. I can’t leave father, or Irith, or…”
“Cendra?”
Vixin bit her lip. “She’s trying.”
Yisi watched her in silence. With a sigh of defeat, she closed her eyes. “That throne has ruined your family. If we stay, pray it doesn’t ruin us.”
Like This Chapter:
Share This Chapter:
