《Kenosia: Drowned City》 Chapter 1 In the early days of the war the Kyrithon Hiereus dreamt of a cleansing flame that would rain down on all adversaries as it had at the founding of the Church. And so, they burned their way across the land for it would never be as pure as the heavens above. It was not until Kenosia and the discovery of the first Mantir that they fully understood the purpose of their crusade. For the stars had seemed so far away, across an infinite cosmos. And the journey to the heavens once thought to be a path of great heights was soon revealed to be a descent into cavernous depths of still deep water. Chapter 1 The city slept in darkness. There was no moon over Kenosia this night. Storm clouds blanketed the stars and yet the river-wall shown bright. Shimmering Glintclaw flitting through the shadows alongst the banks of the Kallidra. They marched to a strange beat. Scuttling forward and then suddenly breaking to press themselves to the ground. Always together, always as one. A rhythmless, unsettling dance which belied a hidden, far deeper purpose. What were they seeking? Arios had never given much thought to the small creatures but up close he saw an entrancing beauty in them. A pulsating azure glow radiated from their aprons mesmerizing him as he lost himself in the waves of light. Their coming signaled the end of spring and the beginning of the rains. ¡°Beautiful, aren¡¯t they?¡± Arios jumped as his father placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°I wanted to be with you when you saw them up close for the first time,¡± The light of the passing crabs briefly illuminated his father¡¯s face revealing a furrowed brow and sunken eyes. ¡°It is the little beauties that provide respite from a world mired in strife.¡± ¡°Father?¡± Arios searched his face for answers but the light passed quickly and it fell deep into shadow. A long silence. Although he could no longer see him, he felt his father¡¯s struggle to find the words. ¡°In times of conflict there is much glory to be made and to one on the verge of manhood the temptation to seize it must be most powerful,¡± He paused at this and Arios felt the grip on his shoulder tighten. ¡°You will be a fine man, I know this. Though you have never shown much interest in my work¡­ I wonder now if you might consider¡­¡± His voice trailed off and the hand on Arios¡¯s shoulder slipped away. This was it. He had dreaded the question for weeks. On that day he had had been filled with a righteous fury. He had marched out the door with Ilaria scrambling after him pleading with him to wait. They had been halfway to the river-wall by the time he finally saw reason. She had calmed him as she was like to do and together, they had planned for this moment. He was calm now Father would see reason, he just needed to make him see it. ¡°I hear your words Father and understand their meaning well. But I must ask you, what of Kenosia? Will we let traitors and heretics rule us all? I do not wish to fight but if we allow one such uprising at what point will it end? If anyone can take control then all would be like to try.¡± This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. His father sighed. ¡°Would that ending one war could end them all. One conflict bleeds into the next and on and on it goes. War begets war. The only answer we are left with is to remove ourselves from the cycle not to attempt its ending. Life is more than just the desperate pursuit of power. There is no shame in a life of creation.¡± Arios burned at this. ¡°Do you think me a coward?¡± he shouted. ¡°That I would cling to your words in defiance of honor to excuse myself from the defense of my home and all those I love?¡± ¡°Think of those loved one¡¯s son! And think of those who love you! We would not wish to see your life spent on the ambitions of other men.¡± Why could Father not understand? It had all made sense with Ilaria but Father never saw things the way they did. ¡°I care nothing for great men and their ambitions. I do not seek glory but neither will I flee from it nor that which it protects.¡± Father¡¯s voice grew quiet. ¡°I too wish to protect those I love. Do you not know that I would do anything for you and your sister? This war protects no one. We must protect ourselves but how can we if we are apart? I pray that the fighting ends soon so that you can take no part in it.¡± He took Arios in his arms, embracing him. ¡°There is great honor as a City Architect. Without us Kenosia would fall to ruin. Please, let me teach you.¡± Arios pulled away. ¡°If the Kyrithon take the city there will be no need for Architects. They will burn the city to the ground and salt the earth so that none may return. They are monsters.¡± Dawn was fast approaching and by its light he could see his father slumped against the river-wall, head in his hands. Defeated. ¡°They are ruthless and brutal, slaughtering all that stand before them. Even those who would not fight cannot escape their wrath. Or have the blind beggars streaming into our city escaped your notice? Would you truly have your family live in world ruled by such heresy?¡± ¡°The King would never allow it,¡± whispered his father. ¡°They don¡¯t have the numbers. Thalorian¡¯s army routes them at every turn. You are not needed there; you are needed here. There is no fighting in Kenosia. It is hundreds of leagues away. We only need to wait.¡± ¡°And yet after every victory a dozen more armies spring up to challenge him. The King underestimates these fanatics but there are far more of them than he thinks. There were half a dozen Kyrithon temples in Kenosia herself before the fighting.¡± Father had sunk to his knees. To see him like this, broken, barely recognizable, was unbearable but Arios needed to make him understand. Still, he lowered his voice to soften the final blow. ¡°I will join Thalorian¡¯s army and then you will see that I was right all along. This I promise you.¡± This was a step too far. Such outright defiance reminded Father of who he was, and he was transformed by it. Renewed in his convictions he rose from the ground, eyes blazing. ¡°You are not grown yet, Arios. I had thought to reason with you like a man but you are still a boy and must be commanded as such.¡± He never raised his voice. He did not need to. It was low and quiet yet powerful and domineering all the same. When Father was like this each word cut through you, breaking your spirit and crushing your will. ¡°You will apprentice for the Architects. You will learn our ways. When you reach manhood, you can do as you wish but until then we will speak no more of war.¡± He turned and made his way towards the river-gate. ¡°But Father!¡± ¡°Do not test me! I have indulged in this madness for long enough. Tell your sister I had hoped our conversations would remain private.¡± Arios felt such a fool. His father towered over him, the sun peaking over the horizon, cast a shadow so large it seemed to swallow him whole. He had thought himself worthy of the challenge, thought his words might move his father. But that could not be so. Father would listen to his words, could even be hurt by them, but he would not be swayed and to challenge his will was another matter entirely. One that he dared not attempt. ¡°Sir I¡­¡± He lowered his gaze. ¡°Boy¡­?¡± ¡°I wanted to say¡ª¡± But before he could finish a horn trumpeted from the walls above them! As it sounded horns all across Kenosia began to blow. They rang through the sleeping streets of the city waking its people and alerting them to a new terrifying reality. An army approached the city¡¯s gates. The war had come to Kenosia. Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Thousands of soldiers poured through the gates of Kenosia. Every street and alley flooded with the sound and stench of war. But there would be no fighting here. All was well, these were the King¡¯s men. However, the King himself was not here. It was a smaller division of the army, why they were here was as of yet a mystery. There had been much speculation and even whispers that it was led by Lord Pyragos himself, favored cousin to the King. Arios peered through his window as the unending line of men streamed by. It would be so easy. Every man wore the golden bronze plate cloaked by the deep blue and pure ivory of House Leukades. Each man adorned with spear and shield. They dressed as one, marched as one and became one. To any observing it would be near impossible to peak a face from the crowd. ¡°I could do it¡­¡± He turned to Ilaria. ¡°You know I could.¡± ¡°Ari, please. Speak no more of this today. Let us eat.¡± She grabbed his hand pulling him away from the window. ¡°This may be my only chance! They will surely be looking for recruits and if I slip away when they leave the city it will be too late for Father to stop me!¡± Ilaria shook her head thoughtfully. ¡°They will know you are to young Ari.¡± She sat him down at the wooden table taking the seat beside him. ¡°Heed Father¡¯s words and follow his commands. In time you will gain his trust and he will let you choose gladly.¡± This made his blood boil. Ilaria was supposed to be on his side. She had helped him plan for all of this and only now did she insist that he listen to Father. What was she thinking? ¡°Ilaria, I will not let this chance slip through my grasp and,¡± ¡ª He smashed his fist into the table sending goblets clattering to the stone floor ¡ª ¡°I will wait for no one¡¯s blessing least of all Father¡¯s!¡± Arios starred at Ilaria. She had shrunk away from him and he felt a pang of guilt cut through his stomach. He had not meant to scare her. Hurriedly he turned away to retrieve the goblets and to hide the regret on his face. Placing them back on the table he returned his gaze to see her smiling. ¡°You have made me cross Ari. Now you will have none of my dinner. You will have to meet father on an empty stomach. He has called for you by the way. You are meant to meet him at the Council House.¡± She continued to smile but her eyes were daggers cutting through him. He thought it better to leave soon rather than risk upsetting her further. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave then. We will talk later?¡± He looked her in the eyes, she continued to smile but did not respond. Unnerved, he turned and made his way out the house. Stepping out into the street, his stomach growled hungrily. He would need to make amends with Ilaria or he would go to bed still starving. She was often too kind to him but could turn quickly when crossed. Perhaps he could something for her in the Highward. A trinket or some such gift. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. The street was still brimming with soldiers, a rushing current barring his way. Was there no end to this deluge? He needed to cross but could see no way through the lines. ¡°I need to cross! Excuse me sirs, I must get through!¡± The soldiers paid him no mind and continued to walk laughing and singing as they did. Arios approached them but none paused to allow his passage. The lines went as far as his eyes could see. There was no end in either direction, no easy crossing. He would need to press his way through. Stepping back, he observed his dilemma. An ocean of deep blue cloaks, vast and impenetrable. The flashes of bronze plate like sunlight on a golden shore. Summoning all of his strength he pushed forward to break the tide. As he took his first step, he heard a loud crack and suddenly a searing pain in his temple. Stumbling backwards he looked up eyes watering, vision blurred. One of the soldiers had stepped out of line. He was lowering the butt of his spear and saying something. He could not make out the words, the ringing in his head would not stop. The soldier turned to his companions, ¡°A good lesson for the boy!¡± The other men roared in agreement as he stepped back into line and marched on. These were the King¡¯ men? They were not enemies, why would they treat him like this? He called out to them, and tried to give chase but his legs had turned to jelly. The last thing he saw was the cobblestone rushing up to meet him. ¡°You there! Boy! Are you hurt?¡± A man was shouting. But he seemed so far away. Arios blinked. How long had he lain here? The sun had passed its peak, he needed to hurry. Before him crouched another soldier. He was garbed in the same cloak and bronze as all soldiers but his helm was crested with white horsehair and on his chest was pinned a gold medallion depicting a Griffin with sapphire eyes. A captain in the King¡¯s army. The captain reached down and pulled Arios to his feet. ¡°Who did this to you boy?¡± ¡°No one Sir, I¡­ I fell.¡± The captain smiled gently as he caught Arios starring at his attire. ¡°What is your name boy?¡± His voice was softer than before. Kinder. ¡°Arios, Sir. Son of Daidal.¡± ¡°Well Arios, I thank you for welcoming us into your city. We will do our best to be worthy of such kindness. And while most of us will hold to this duty there are some amongst this army that are not worthy to wear the colors of our High King.¡± He looked over at the line of soldiers. They had halted, awaiting their captain¡¯s command. ¡°I hope you will not judge my men by the least amongst them.¡± ¡°No Sir, I wouldn¡¯t.¡± This was the soldier he had imagined. The kind that he would be. ¡°Kenosia is honored to host the King¡¯s men. We will provide whatever aid we can to end the fighting.¡± The captain¡¯s eyes twinkled and he started to laugh. Not like the soldiers before. Their laughter had been haughty and cruel, they made Arios feel small. This laugh was deep and slow and full of joy. It drew Arios in and warmed his heart. ¡°And glad am I to receive such generosity so freely given! Arios your passion is an unexpected delight! I see the makings of a fine soldier.¡± Arios¡¯s chest swelled with pride. He would be a fine soldier! It was at this moment he remembered his father¡¯s words and his shoulders fell. ¡°I hope to join you Sir, when I reach manhood. But my father will hear none of it. I fear he is a coward.¡± Placing his hand on Arios the captain turned to him and said, ¡°Your father sounds like he loves you very much. Do not begrudge him this. Soldiers are always needed but there is only a short time for you to be his son.¡± Looking up at the sun he scratched his beard then continued, ¡°The hour grows late. I must get my men to their lodgings and I believe you needed to cross the street?¡± ¡ª He turned to his men directing them with hands ¡ª ¡°Make way!¡± he shouted. The lines parted and he turned back to Arios, ¡°On your way!¡± He smiled, pushing Arios forward and waving him on. ¡°Thank you, Sir!¡± Arios scrambled through the gap across the street. He turned back to see the line closing. It was only then that he thought to get the captain¡¯s name. But he had already vanished, swallowed by the waves of soldiers. Chapter 3 Chapter 3 The Council House was located in the Highward. Not far from Arios¡¯s home but a tiring climb for those unused to its elevation. The Acropolis was as opulent as it was isolated. The roads here were of flagstone. Polished and smooth, lined with marble. Below one had to take great care in the streets lest they trip and fall. Here Arios thought he could even walk bare foot. The people wore exotic colors, amaranth and golden saffron. There was no fear of dirtying such lavish robes. The district was too pure, too well maintained for these concerns. Of course, all were welcome. One only needed to give reason upon entry. However, the suspicious stares and icy demeanor of its residents betrayed a hostile stance towards those of the lower wards. Arios felt their eyes following him and was glad the Council House was just ahead. Constructed from immense slabs of marble, the seat of the Council was a marvel of engineering advancement and artistic vision. A brilliant pearl with rivers of pale blue dancing along the surface. An ode to Kallidrios in the colors of the King. Arios stepped through its golden doors into the Great Hall. He saw his father, already seated at the council table. At its head sat Lord Kalydor, Steward of Kenosia. There sat four other men who were unknown to him but the largest one was snoring. On the benches behind father sat Doros, Erykos and Dametros. Architects in his father¡¯s employ. He took a seat next to them and they nodded, unsurprised at his presence. Father must have already informed them of his intentions. ¡°Welcome to Kenosia Lord Pyragos. It has been far too long.¡± The Steward had a deep and drawling voice. Noble but aloof. ¡°Tell us, what news from the north? How goes the fighting?¡± ¡°It goes well, Lord Steward,¡± replied Pyragos. ¡°Our King is made for such adversity. He stamps out the heretics wherever they may arise.¡± So, the rumors were true. Pyragos did lead this army. He was a tall man. Even seated he was a head above all the other Lords. He had the look of a King. A strong jaw and handsome nose. He was young, almost too young, his hair cut short in golden curls. Arios had never seen King Thalorian but if he looked anything like his cousin then what a visage he must strike. Pyragos continued, ¡°We have just come from the front. We are meant to be on leave and had planned to return to the Capital. This however, is no longer possible.¡± The crowd began to murmur and Arios sat up straight. This was why they were here. ¡°Oh?¡± inquired Kalydor. ¡°Do tell us.¡± ¡°My scouts encountered a large Kyrithon force a fortnights march from here¡± ¡ª Gasps broke out in the crowd as Arios leaned forward ¡ª ¡°Somehow, they slipped through our lines undetected. I have sent word to the King but we cannot expect aid before they reach Kenosia.¡± At this one of the unknown men rose up. He was an older man with salted hair and a greying beard. He cleared his throat. ¡°Lord Pyragos when will you ride out to smash these apostates? My men would be honored to join you.¡± Pyragos observed the man calmly then replied, ¡°I do not believe we have met. Lord¡­?¡± ¡°Lord Theron,¡± interjected Kalydor. ¡°Apologies Sir, my councilman may be blunt but I assure you he has the best interests of Kenosia at heart and we are ready to provide any support needed in routing the followers of Arram.¡± You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. ¡°There is nothing I desire more than to ride out and face this host in the name of King Thalorian. But my men are weary and their army far too large to meet in the open fields. No, we must prepare Kenosia for an extended siege.¡± The room exploded. Shouted words melted into each other making it impossible for Arios to make out a single one. He watched as Lord Pyragos¡¯s guard encircled the table, separating the noblemen from the crowd. Several agitated spectators attempted to push their way through but were sent crashing to the marble floor in the same way Arios had been disposed of this morning. He winced, rubbing his temple. Amongst the guard Arios spotted the captain from earlier. He was pushing back a couple of drunk men with ease and seemed utterly unconcerned with all the commotion. Arios rose to get a better look. He would need to find an opportunity to speak with the man again. Stepping forward excitedly he suddenly felt someone grab his arm and pull him back down to his seat. ¡°They¡¯ve just gotten a little excited is all,¡± Erykos yelled over the noise. ¡°Too much wine, best to wait until they¡¯ve calmed down a bit.¡± Arios turned to argue but as he did Lord Kalydor slammed the table! ¡°Silence!¡± Kalydor did not have the Kingly look of Lord Pyragos, he was shorter with dark curls, but he was known in Kenosia and respected by all in the Great Hall. His word was law and the crowd reluctantly returned to their seats. ¡°This is no way to treat an honored guest and envoy of our beloved King. I have known Lord Pyragos since he was boy. If he says we must prepare to be besieged then believe me, this is our best and only course.¡± Then turning to Lord Pyragos, ¡°Let me introduce you to my Master of Coin Lord Demarcus and my Master of Commerce Lord Argyros. You have already met my Master of War Lord Theron.¡± Lord Demarcus was a spindly man whose emerald robes hung from his frame in an unnatural manner. He stood pursing his thin lips. ¡°How may I serve you General?¡± He had a whispery voice, nasal, and he was very annoyed. ¡°I suppose you will be looking for coin to pay your men?¡± ¡°Just so,¡± replied Pyragos coldly. ¡°I will have the proper documents sent to your office this evening.¡± ¡°Please do not delay,¡± whined Demarcus and he sank back into his seat. On the other hand, Lord Argyros was short and fat. His face was red and he was rubbing the sleep from his eyes having just been awakened by all the commotion. ¡°Lord Argyros?¡± questioned Pyragos. ¡°Tell me the state of the city¡¯s stores? Are they well maintained?¡± ¡°Indeed, they are,¡± chuckled Argyros. ¡°Sure, things might get a little tight but there¡¯s plenty of wheat and salted meats. Even enough wine to go around! Of course, You may use my personal stores, perhaps to share with your officers or¡­¡± ¡ª He winked at Pyragos ¡ª ¡°perhaps they could be lost on the way! Moreover, it would be my honor to host a great feast tonight welcoming you to the city and celebrating the beginning of the rains! All here would be welcome¡± ?¡ª This elicited many drunken cheers from the crowd ¡ª ¡°even you Demarcus, you old bat!¡± He punctuated this invitation by slamming his elbow into Lord Demarcus¡¯s chest causing him to choke on his wine. ¡°A generous invitation and one I will gladly accept. But you have reminded me of a final pressing matter. The rains. Is the city prepared to prevent flooding? It is a tactic that our enemy may press.¡± ¡°You will wish to speak to my Master Architect,¡± Kalydor answered. ¡°When he took over our city was on the brink of ruin but he has completely restored our river walls and the city drainage. Daidal.¡± He nodded towards Father. Father stood slowly. Bowing as he rose. ¡°Milord the river-wall is ten meters high and we test our drainage throughout the year digging newer and deeper aqueducts as failsafe¡¯s. There has never been a season of rain that caused the Kallidra to rise even half as high as our walls. In regards to siege tactics the river-wall is completely contained by our outer-wall. The city itself would fall before it flooded.¡± Pyragos nodded. Then paused frowning, ¡°On our journey here we saw many sluicegates upstream of the city. Tell me of them.¡± ¡°The sluicegates were used in times when the city was in disrepair. We keep them maintained now as a preventative measure but if the Kyrithon attempt to raise the waters with them all they would achieve is the flooding their own armies. We should pray to Kallidrios that they do so.¡± ¡°Thank you Daidal. That was most comprehensive.¡± Pyragos turned to Kalydor, ¡°That will be all, we may end this council session.¡± ¡°Excellent. We shall begin preparations tomorrow, but tonight, we feast!¡± The hall rang with cheers as the crowd began to file out. Arios scrambled up looking for the captain but they had already formed ranks marching around Lord Pyragos. A second chance wasted. He would wait for Father he did not wish to walk home alone. Chapter 4 Chapter 4 Kenosia dove into siege preparations. Day and night the city rang with the shouts of men, of hammer meeting nail, and of lumber being felled. It drowned out all other noise. Lord Pyragos had taken over command of all fighting men in the city and they bolstered his own ranks. He had allowed the Master of War to maintain control of his own personal guard but had otherwise sidelined Lord Theron much to his dismay. Lord Argyros spent his days collecting crop yields and inspecting store houses. It was said many of the finer meats and choice wines had gone missing under the most mysterious of circumstances. All the while Lord Demarcus wandered the city bemoaning the damage to the cities coffers and sending his tax collectors running wild to hunt down even the smallest of debts. And yet moral was strong. Kenosia¡¯s walls were high and its stores deep. It was said rations could last for at least three years. The men of the city knew there was much to be gained and little risked from such a prolonged encounter. King Thalorian would arrive in time and break the Kyrithon army. He would bestow great gifts upon a city that had housed his beloved cousin in his time of need. They sang with joy as they worked and each night were rewarded well with lavish celebrations hosted by Lord Argyros. Father had been entrusted with ensuring Kenosia¡¯s walls were maintained, fortified and well defended. There was no time to teach Arios any of the more advanced builder techniques for these tasks and so he had been assigned to digging trenches outside the city¡¯s gates under the apprenticeship of Erykos. It was hard monotonous labor but Arios was pleased to contribute to the war effort. Try as he might Father could not stop him now. In a siege all citizens would be needed. Even Ilaria worked tirelessly in the medical halls spinning silk into thread. Outside the walls had once been vast farmlands but over the last week all mature crops had been harvested and stored. The rest had been burned turning the once green lowlands into a charred desert. There was little room in Kenosia so much of the livestock had been slaughtered and salted. The rest had been quartered in the least desirable wards of the city. Today they dug near the Kallidra. Though harder to spot in daylight the Glintclaw still marched along its banks. Arios starred at them; a trader had once told him the crabs were not found so far inland so why¡­? ¡°Arios! Come here lad!¡± a voice called. He turned to see Erykos walking towards him waving. He was a young man but already years of hard labor had made his back wide and legs thick. He cam running up to Arios his dark curls drenched in sweat. ¡°There you are lad, now, there is not much I can teach you in the digging of trenches although there is still much to be learned,¡± He paused wiping the sweat from his brow and smiled at Arios. ¡°We can use this time to our advantage in speaking of other things. Tell me, what questions do you have of our work?¡± He thought for a moment. He had always known his father¡¯s work was important but not in the ways Arios had hoped it would be. But now with Kenosia in peril it seemed paramount. Perhaps he had been wrong to be so dismissive, maybe following in his father¡¯s footsteps was the way to protect his family. He turned back to Erykos, ¡°My father does great work and yet I know little of it, tell me, what is the most vital in preparing for a siege?¡± Erykos smiled, ¡°Your father walks the wall searching for its weakest points. The gates of course present the most obvious challenge but would be the most defended in any full assault. There are always other portions that are in need of repair and planning. A wall may initially be built thinner in some sections, there may have been shoddy workmanship or simple erosion in others. In all cases a wall is only as strong as its weakest section. It is of utmost import to find, fortify and plan for these parts.¡± This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. ¡°But how would the Kyrithon identify these weak points? It seems to me the wall looks all the same from the outside.¡± ¡°Perhaps they would not. Perhaps they would simply besiege a part of the wall that just so happens to be a weak point. It would make no difference if they are able to burst through. Of course, you must know that the city will already be teeming with spies, many likely came in with Lord Pyragos and his army. This is the way of a siege. There is no avoiding it.¡± ¡°Then by locating our weakest sections we are signaling directly to the Kyrithon where to attack!¡± countered Arios. ¡°Do you think us such fools?¡± laughed Erykos. ¡°Your father and Lord Pyragos have accounted for such issues. At all time there are dozens of teams performing a multitude of tasks all over the walls. Some are even just for show. A spy would not know the difference. Only a trusted few Architects know which locations are in the direst of conditions.¡± He placed a hand on Arios¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Do not worry, your father is too wise a man, he knows who to trust.¡± ¡°Then why are you not with him?¡± Arios felt his stomach coil with guilt as he watched Erykos¡¯s face turn gray. ¡°I am sorry, I did not mean it¡­¡± ¡°No, no you are right I was not selected to join the wall crew.¡± Erykos was only ten years Arios¡¯s senior but the shadow that darkened his face made him look twice the age. ¡°Your father has given me¡­ other tasks. Some, I hope, indicate his trust in me is as strong as it ever was.¡± He starred at Arios for a moment then shrugged, ¡°Regardless, had I been chosen I would miss this time together with you. And someone needs to teach you some skill.¡± He laughed again, clapping Arios on the back. ¡°Some respect for your elders would not go amiss either.¡± Arios turned away embarrassed and they worked in silence for some time until the sun had nearly passed out of sight. ¡°That¡¯s good enough for today.¡± Arios pulled himself out of the trench behind Erykos. Looking down the lines he could see hundreds of men doing the same. There was an excited buzz that grew louder as more and more of them prepared for the night¡¯s festivities. They walked together towards a side gate that would lead to the Artisans Ward. As they reached it, he spotted a tall, broad soldier. He had familiar dark deep-set eyes and a bent nose. Upon his breast was a sapphire eyed griffin, the captain. A third chance. He was standing amongst the gates guard and they spoke in hushed tones. When he saw Arios, his eyes twinkled and he broke into a crooked grin. ¡°Arios!¡± he cried. ¡°Just the young man I was in search of.¡± He walked towards them. ¡°I have just spoken with your father, you did not tell me he was the Master Architect of Kenosia, it is no wonder he wishes you to join in his work!¡± ¡°Yes,¡± replied Arios as looked down. ¡°My father does great work. I only wish he saw other work as being equally valuable.¡± ¡°That is the just what I wished to speak to you of.¡± He replied. ¡°Your father remains steadfast in his desire for you to train as a builder but upon reflection has decided that under these dire circumstances it will also be important for you to train as a soldier. In that charge, I have offered my own services.¡± Could this be? His father had actually asked for him to be trained. His heart was full of joy but his head was spinning. ¡°Sir I¡­¡± Before he could respond Erykos cut in. ¡°I am sorry soldier but, who are you?¡± ¡°You may call me Darios, I am a Captain in the army of Lord Pyragos.¡± he replied. ¡°It is a pleasure to meet you¡­?¡± ¡°Erykos. I am charge of the young lad here.¡± ¡°Ah, Erykos of course, Daidal mentioned you when we spoke, I was instructed that as long as you found no issue to proceed in his training. Do not worry this will not take away from Arios¡¯s current duties. We will train in the early hours and if this effects his work as a builder we will cease immediately. On this, Daidal was quite clear.¡± Erykos scratched his chin considering, ¡°This is what Daidal wanted?¡± ¡°Indeed, it is.¡± ¡°And this is what you want Arios?¡± The voice called out to Arios snapping him out of a daze. ¡°Yes!¡± he shouted eagerly, then composed himself and followed, ¡°And my work will not falter, I promise you Erykos, I will work twice as hard!¡± A small smile crept across Erykos¡¯s face, ¡°Who am I to deny such passion and the requests of my own Master. Not when I am to be receiving double the output. But if you falter even a little, I will inform your father of your failure.¡± He grabbed Arios tussling his hair. ¡°Now, run and tell your father that I have approved of this.¡± Arios ran through the gate heart singing. He was to be trained by a Captain. And not just any Captain. A personal guard to Lord Pyragos. He was going to be a soldier. Chapter 5 Chapter 5 ¡°Ilaria, it is time,¡± whispered Arios. He shook her gently. ¡°We must be on our way.¡± ¡°Ari?¡± she yawned, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. ¡°Is it dawn already?¡± ¡°Yes, but be quiet, Father still sleeps.¡± He pulled her from her bed. ¡°Get dressed, quickly.¡± Then he turned and left the room. He decided to wait in the courtyard at the shrine of Kallidrios. It was at its center, a humble marble altar adorned with flower wreathes from their garden. Arios had not spent much time in prayer but his father left offerings every night and kept a lamp burning at all times. He knelt down and briefly touched his mother¡¯s comb. Then lit some incense and began to pray. It was some time before Ilaria finally appeared. He looked up as she entered the courtyard, ¡°I told you to hurry!¡± he hissed. She glared back at him. ¡°It is to early for that kind of tone. Have you eaten?¡± ¡°There is no time!¡± ¡°Hmph!¡± Ilaria walked out of the courtyard into the kitchen and reached into a cupboard. ¡°Lucky for you I prepared pita. We can eat it on the way.¡± She held out her hand to him and he took the bread begrudgingly. ¡°Thank you,¡± he muttered. ¡°Never mind that, we are going to be late!¡± They rushed out into the street and headed towards the barracks. They were to meet Darios there. It was a long walk and the city grew progressively brighter as they went, a constant reminder of their tardiness. Finally, they rounded a bend and there stood Captain Darios. He wore a simple blue tunic. A stark contrast from the golden plate Arios had always seen him in. And without his helm Arios could see the dark curls so common of citizens of the Kalydorian Empire. Without the armor he looked just like any other man. ¡°Arios! There you are! I was beginning to think you had overslept.¡± He held out his hand but froze when he saw Ilaria. ¡°Who have you brought with you?¡± ¡°Sir, this is my sister¡ª¡± ¡°Ilaria. I apologize for the shock, Captain, but I too wish to be trained¡­ in case I have need to defend myself.¡± ¡°Ilaria it is a pleasure to meet you and I of course would be honored to be your instructor but¡­¡± He frowned and turned towards Arios, ¡°Did your father approve of this?¡± he inquired urgently. There was something in his voice, not fear but¡­ ¡°We thought it best not to inform him of this¡± interjected Ilaria. ¡°He has already seen the value in teaching Arios to fight, why would he not wish me to do the same?¡± Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. The frown vanished from the captain¡¯s face, ¡°Why yes of course!¡± he replied. ¡°In this time of uncertainty, we must all take destiny in to our own hands! Come, both of you, let us begin!¡± Together they walked into a training yard. At all other hours it would have been filled with soldiers sparring, wrestling and training but at this time it was empty and eerily quiet. Darios stepped in front of them and spoke, ¡°In the field the long spear rules however in the cramped confines of city warfare it can often lack the maneuverability necessary for victory. To compromise you will train in the short spear to keep your enemy at bay and then the sword should they manage to break through.¡± He picked a spear off of a rack. ¡°We will start with the spear.¡± He then grabbed two very large round shields and signaled for them to follow him. He led them out of the barracks into a narrow city alley. ¡°In the event that our besiegers breach the city much of the fighting will be done in narrow choke points. In an alley such as this it would only take one or two warriors to bar the way.¡± He handed them the shields. They came up to more than half of Arios¡¯s height, even further on Ilaria. Arios had always thought them to be made of bronze but in fact they were wooden with only a thin bronze layer on the front. The bronze was engraved with a phoenix, the symbol of House Kalydor. They were heavy, but not as heavy as they looked. Darios showed them both how to strap into the shield for extra support and leverage. For the next hour they trained using just the shield. Various stances and formations. How to cover one while the other attacked. Arios felt exhausted, but when he looked to Ilaria he could see no such weariness in her face. It shone with sweat but her eyes were narrowed, determined. He doubled his efforts; he would not be beaten by her. They drilled on and on until the shield felt like a boulder pulling him to the floor. ¡°Enough!¡± shouted Darios. ¡°You have both done surprisingly well, would that I could keep training you all day. Alas, I promised Erykos that your work would not suffer and I am sure, Ilaria, that you have other duties to attend to as well.¡± He took the shields from them. ¡°Come let us eat together before we part.¡± Darios had prepared some dried fruits and salted meats with bread for their meal. They sat together on the steps of the Barracks devouring the food too tired to speak. Eventually Darios broke the silence, ¡°It is quite beautiful, your city.¡± he said. ¡°Much grander than where I come from.¡± ¡°Where is that Sir?¡± he asked. Excited to finally learn more about the mysterious captain. ¡°A city far to the north¡­ It was called Eironeia.¡± He starred out at the city then, ¡°And don¡¯t call me Sir. We are comrades in arms now, I am Darios.¡± ¡°Why did you leave, Darios?¡± asked Ilaria. ¡°I would not have, had it been my choice, Eironeia was one of the first cities to fall to the Kyrithon,¡± his eyes shimmered. ¡°During its sacking I was taken prisoner. It was the luck of the gods that the army was soon routed and I was freed me from captivity. I joined Lord Pyragos shortly after. But before I beheld Kenosia, I thought never to see a city as fair as Eironeia again. You two remind me of some children I knew¡ª¡± Before he could finish horns rang through the city. Suddenly the barracks was awake! All around them soldiers came rushing down the stairs. Darios sprang to his feet as one soldier carrying armor ran to him. ¡°Captain!¡± the man cried. ¡°The horns! What are our orders?¡± Darios grabbed the plate from the man then shouted, ¡°Prepare the men to fall in rank! Make way to the main gate! I will find Lord Pyragos and meet you there!¡± The soldier saluted and ran back into the Barracks shouting. Darios turned to Arios and Ilaria. ¡°Go home you two!¡± he commanded. ¡°See to your father and stay inside!¡± ¡°Are they here?¡± cried Arios. ¡°Let me come with you!¡± ¡°No!¡± bellowed Darios. ¡°Get your sister home!¡± ¡°Come Arios,¡± plead Ilaria. ¡°We will be no use here.¡± A fire raged in Arios demanding that he stay but he could abandon his sister. He hung his head in defeat and she took his hand, leading him out of the Barracks towards home. There could be no mistaking it this time. The Kyrithon were here. Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Arios stood atop the wall. Father on one side and Ilaria on the other. Father had not wished them to join him but they had shouted him down. This was there reality now, there was no point in shielding them from it. They looked out on the burnt fields and deep trenches. It was unrecognizable. Had this really been their home? Now, transformed by the machine of war. On the horizon a small group rode towards them. Perhaps a dozen or so men. As they grew closer Arios could see the crimson banners flying high. The bleeding sun, sigil of the false god Arram. At the front of the procession, there also flew a white flag and as Arios spotted it the gates of Kenosia began to creak open. Out of the gates below rode Lord Pyragos and Lord Kalydor. They were followed by their own retinue of cavalry. ¡°Surely there can be no negation, Father?¡± ¡°No Arios, but tradition and honor demand at least the pretense. Neither side wants to be seen as so bloodthirsty that they did not attempt a peaceful resolution. It is all for show. The three of them stood silently, waiting and watching. ¡°Are they Hiereus?¡± asked Ilaria. ¡°If not all of them, there are certainly some amongst the party.¡± replied Father. ¡°I cannot see well enough to point them out.¡± ¡°I have heard they use dark magic to bend men to their will!¡± continued Ilaria excitedly. ¡°I have heard they trade with demons for unholy powers! I have heard¡ª¡± ¡°Where did you hear such nonsense?¡± Arios cut her short. ¡°They are heretics not wizards.¡± There was no time for such childish things. ¡°Like you know any better!¡± she spat. ¡°Children. Children! Now is not the time. Whether the Kyrithon have converted their men through the occult or simple lies it makes no difference now.¡± They settled back in to silence. Glaring at each other. After a short time, Lord Pyragos and the other men got back on their horse and began to ride back to the city. The Kyrithon party made no move. Only when all of the men had returned and the gate closed behind, did one step forward. With no others to block their view, they could get a better look at the man, although he was still too far to see much. He wore flowing crimson orange robes and upon his head a golden helm adorned with many stones. The light danced upon its surface and it shown like a brilliant sun. Two men were chained to his person. The men wore nought but loincloths; slaves of some sort. He began to speak. The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. ¡°Citizens of Kenosia. I speak for the Kyrithon. Our Megas has sent me here to liberate your city.¡± His voice was soft nearly a whisper and yet Arios could hear him as clear as if he stood just before him. The words crept into his mind banishing all other thoughts. What was this? The man continued. ¡°I am Archiereus Hesperion and I have razed many of your cities in the name of Arram but never without cause. I provide you, the people of Kenosia, with same offer I give to all.¡± ¡°Father, what is happening?¡± cried Arios. ¡°Silence!¡± His face was white and he stared across the plains unblinking. Arios had never seen Father like this. He was frightened. Ilaria grabbed his hand squeezing tightly. ¡°The stewards of your city have failed you. You are only yet to see it. They have constructed a world without justice and devoid of light. A world in which few live in opulence while many go without. They tell you that Arram is a false god, that is a lie. I say to you, the gods of these noble men exist to imprison you, to keep you blind. Arram promises all the gift of sight. Under his light all are equal.¡± Over the horizon rode a dozen new contingents all flying the bleeding sun. They were too far to see distinctly but they lined up alongst the span of the wall. Did they plan to attack now? This could not be their entire army, could it? ¡°I beg you, people of Kenosia, give up these wretched men. Before long you will see them for what they are but the longer you wait the more they can take from you. The people of Ephyrea believed their lords to be good and wise. And so, they refused to give them up. But when we broke through the gates these kindly lords abandoned their people to an ugly fate attempting to flee the city in secret.¡± At this he jerked the chained men forward and they fell to their knees before him. ¡°I present to you the lords of Ephyrea as a gift to your city. To show you, our goodwill. Violence is not in our nature but we must burn away all that would obscure the brilliance of our Lord. For how can we call ourselves his followers if we live in the light while so many perish in shadow.¡± From behind Hesperion came two soldiers carrying great stakes and large drums. They drove the stakes into the chains severing them from the Archiereus and rooting the men to the ground. Then they took the drums and doused the men in a liquid. The lords started to call out begging for help. Hesperion raised a staff above his head and shouted, ¡°Arram, hear my prayer! Although we are not yet worthy let your cleansing light guide our way!¡± The men were set ablaze. Arios could not see them in flames but there screams where horrifying. All along the line fires sprung up as more and more screams joined the smoke rising to the heavens. The smoke caught on a breeze and an acrid stench filled his nostrils. His eyes began to water and he was sick. ¡°Do not let this be your fate. Give us your masters or at the next city we will tell the tragedy of Kenosia. We will wait as long as needed. We are not here as conquerors but as liberators. There is no need for fighting but do not delay your salvation is at hand.¡± The screams had ceased and the fires burned low. The sun was setting now. Archiereus Hesperion turned away from the city mounting his horse. He rode north over the horizon and out of sight. The rest staid behind and as he left, they began to sing. It was a beautiful haunting melody though Arios could not understand the words. He began to feel light headed. It seemed they were singing for him and him alone. Suddenly he was falling, no sinking, into a deep pool. The water surrounded him as he plunged deeper. There was something at the bottom, a shadow, with a thousand eyes. Its arms reached up to take him. He could not escape it. ¡°Ari! Ari!¡± Ilaria was shaking him. He felt cold and wet. Had they pulled him out? No, he was right here, on the wall. Something splashed onto the top of his head. He starred up at the sky to see water falling. The rains had begun. Chapter 7 Chapter 7 The Kyrithon song was unending. They sang though the night and the rain. The sounds weaving together to form an unsettling melody. Sleep was elusive. Arios found himself atop the river-wall. Below the Kallidra foamed as it surged through the city. Its banks still exposed; the waters yet to rise. An azure glow revealed that the Glintclaw continued to march. Their movement, which had seemed so mysterious, was now revealed as a dance in perfect rhythm with the echoing chorus. Music that only they could hear, until now. He thought of the burning men. Their screams echoed in his mind. The rains had seemed to wait for them. Had they come just moments before the men might have been spared such a gruesome death. Perhaps the cold waters had brought comfort to them in their last moments. But had they deserved their fate? Archiereus Hesperion had spoke with such conviction. They had not been good men. They had betrayed the faith of those they had been charged with defending. Yet he could not escape their screams. The Kyrithon spoke of a better world but their actions betrayed a darker purpose. They could not be trusted. The rains fell, the Glintclaw danced on and Arios thought of his father. He remembered the fear in his eyes as they stood on the wall. But there was more to it. A deeper sadness lay behind the terror, a quiet resignation. Arios had seen that look only once before in his father¡¯s eyes. When they had taken his mother. They had looked for Mother all day but when the sun set Father had sent him home. Ilaria could not be out so late and the rains were always stronger at night. She was just a babe. He sat by her cradle as she cried. She was still suckling but there was no one to feed her, they could afford a wetnurse. He had been alone with her for hours. A boy, a crying babe and the dull pounding of the rain. It was not until dawn that Father returned. He staggered in drenched and exhausted. His skin burned and he raved in hushed unintelligible whispers. Arios had stripped him and led him to his bed. He slept until the sun rose again. When he woke, he had composed himself but his eyes were changed. Eyes that had once sparkled with joy were now dull and lifeless. He had informed Arios that his mother would not be coming home. Arios had been too young to fully understand his father¡¯s words but he saw the pain. They had not spoken of it since. It was a memory best left in the past. He thought of Ilaria. She had not known her mother. There had been no one to teach her as Father had taught him. Of course, Father had done his best but there are some things that only a mother can teach. But Ilaria was as resilient as she was determined. She had learned to cook and sew, to build and repair and now to fight and heal. She took care of them. They needed her more than she needed them. Perhaps Father had been right. They needed to stay together. They would protect each other. Arios would not let any harm fall to either of them. Not like what happened to his mother. And that¡¯s when he saw her. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. She was just as he remembered her. Her pale skin shown in the glow of the crabs all around her. The Glintclaw had stopped their movement and were gathered at her feet. She stood in the rain, dark curls sodden, large strands clinging to her face. Blood streamed like tears from her gray eyes as she starred up at him. He called out to her but she would not respond. He wanted to run to her but the gates had been sealed. She was so close but he could not reach her. He needed to find Father. He would know what to do. He had designed the gates; he would be able to open them. But what if she disappeared again? What if this was his only chance? He would have to climb down the wall. The rains were heavier now but the song still rose above it. The stone was slick as Arios carefully pulled himself over the parapet and hung off the side of the wall. It was slow work. Small imperfections in the mortar provided the path for his hands and feet. Each step was a prayer and each prayer needed an answer. The wall was ten meters high. Even one mistake could be fatal. It was halfway down that his luck ran out. The rain fell like thunder drowning out his senses. The singing had reached a frantic pace. He lowered himself but could find no footing. Panicked he clung to the wall desperately sliding his foot along its width searching for a foothold. There was none. His strength was waning and his fingers began to slip from the mortar. He fell. He felt his legs snap as he hit the ground. His scream was lost in the rain. He lay there in agony searching for his mother. She was right there, in the same spot as before. But she made no move towards him. Did she not recognize her own son? One of the crabs made its way towards him. He was having trouble focusing his vision, the pain was so intense. When it arrived, it reached out its claws and began tearing into Arios¡¯s skin. He screamed again and crushed the little beast in his fist. When he looked back there were more making their way towards him. Suddenly all the Glintclaw were moving his way. Hundreds, maybe thousands of them. The glowing blue grew brighter and brighter until he was blinded by it. He could no longer see anything by the time he started to feel them. They crawled over his body blanketing him. They ripped and tore at him. ¡°Mother!¡± he screamed. ¡°Mother don¡¯t let them take me!¡± All he heard was the song, and the rain, and the scuttling of a thousand crabs. ¡°Mother!¡± One crab crawled into his mouth choking the words from it. He bit down and spat it out on the riverbank. More took its place cutting their way back in. His body shut down. He could resist them no longer. He felt the crawling inside of him. As he faded out of consciousness, he felt a wave wash over him. It lifted him up and bore him away. When woke he heard no singing. All was silent but the soft patter of rain on the roof above. Chapter 8 Chapter 8 True to their word the Kyrithon had made no move upon the city. It had been nearly a week and they were content to sing their prayers at dawn and again at sunset. This time of year, always found Kenosia a quiet city. Work stalled as torrential showers inundated the land leaving fields fallow, washing away roads and bridges. Both the work to prepare for and the effort to rebuild after were extraordinary and so during the weeks of rain most took the time to rest and recover. It was no different this year. In fact, without the daily prayers, it was nearly impossible to tell that Kenosia was under siege at all. ¡°The rain is light this morning. I am going to walk the wall. Arios, would you join me?¡± Although there were no repairs to be done Father continued to spend his time in search of weaknesses in the wall. ¡°Not today, Father, I promised Ilaria we would go to market after breakfast. She says we are running low on grain.¡± It was early and they sat around the table drinking wine, raindrops whispering against the lattice. Father frowned. ¡°Very well Arios but I wish you to join me soon. You have been neglecting your duties as a builder.¡± ¡°Breakfast is ready!¡± sang Ilaria as she swept into the room. She brought bread and oil, cheese and dates. Placing them on the table she joined them below. ¡°Father, I have patched your cloak. The seal should keep the rain out now.¡± ¡°That is excellent Ilaria! Whatever would I do without you.¡± Father beamed tussling her hair as she laughed along with him. ¡°Arios tells me you will be heading to market this morning.¡± ¡°Our stores are running low and it would be best to restock before things get too tight.¡± ¡°Indeed, it would. Do you have the coin for it?¡± ¡°Of course, Father, I took it from your purse myself!¡± They burst out laughing at this and Father took a rather large swig of his wine before turning to Arios. ¡°I need you to return by midday. There is a council meeting that I wish you to join me for. Do not let this one¡± ¡ª he gestured towards Ilaria as she rolled her eyes¡ª ¡°keep you for too long.¡± ¡°Yes Father. Well then, we best be on our way.¡± He and Ilaria grabbed their clocks, pulling the hoods up as they stepped out in to the rain. ¡°Be safe! The both of you.¡± The market was not far but the rain was cold. They walked in silence wrapping their coats tightly around themselves. It was still quite early when they stepped through the columns and into the market hall there were very few others at this time. The market hall was vast structure. There were many throughout the city but this was one of the larger ones. Rows of vendors selling all manners of goods on tables and in baskets went so far back that that the end of the hall was masked from sight. A constant hum of chattering negations and the clinking of coins echoed through the hall. This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. ¡°Don¡¯t get lost!¡± called Ilaria as she disappeared between the stalls. Arios contented himself with wandering. He had no coin. Ilaria was in charge of such things but the market was always full of bright colors and tempting aromas. He drifted through rows of fabrics and pottery. Past jewelry and perfumes. The shops were lined with anything one could imagine. His nose caught the scent of salted goat. Ilaria would be over there perhaps she would get him some. As he came upon the stall, he heard a man shouting. It was a short balding man. He was rather round in the middle and red in the face. He wore lavender robes that might have been quite costly at one time but now were frayed and faded. ¡°This is highway robbery! As if I would pay five coppers for this. It was only one just last week!¡± ¡°Last week the city was not under siege!¡± shouted the shopkeeper. ¡°Surely you cannot expect me to keep the same prices now?¡± ¡°Everyone knows the city is overflowing with food! We just spent months harvesting it all!¡± ¡°Then I welcome you to find your wares in one of the shops that is overflowing. It would be most easy if what you say is true.¡± ¡°All you merchants are the same. Colluding with one another to strip the wealth from our city in its time of need!¡± He swung his fist at the shopkeeper sending him crashing to the floor. In an instant he was surround by bronze and blue. Soldiers here to keep the peace. ¡°What is all this?¡± Ilaria ran up beside him excitedly. Her satchel was bulging and she carried a basket of fresh fruits. They watched as the soldiers escorted the man from the market hall. He shouted the entire way. A slender woman in dark robes followed just behind him. ¡°He was upset with the cost.¡± ¡°As was I. It seems a siege is good business for the merchant guild.¡± Her eyes darkened and she gestured to their food. ¡°We are fortunate in our circumstances but there are many in this city who¡¯s lives will be forever altered by this. We all worked tirelessly in preparation to defend Kenosia but the greed of a few men will leave our most vulnerable exposed.¡± Arios paused. Was this what Archiereus Hesperion had meant? No. The merchants were not the stewards of Kenosia. They had simply escaped notice, until now. ¡°Lord Argyros is the Master of Commerce. He will be at the council today. If he is informed of this corruption there is no doubt, he will stamp it out.¡± ¡°Oh Ari, perhaps he would. But who will tell him?¡± her voice wavered and she fell silent. ¡°Father! Father will. There is not a more respected man in the city than the Master Architect. Now so more than ever.¡± ¡°I hope you are right Ari.¡± She smiled at him ¡°Regardless, Father will know what to do about this. We should hurry home.¡± They exited down the steps quickly. The rain was still a gentle mist and in the late morning heat its cooling drops were now a welcome respite. Ahead of them Arios spotted a woman. She was walking towards them quickly. As she passed, she covered her face in her hands but Arios recognized the onyx robe and golden belt. She had been in the Market Hall. Had her husband dropped something in all the commotion? It was no wonder she hid her face. It must have been most embarrassing. They were almost home. Ilaria ran ahead dancing and splashing in the water. She disappeared around a bend in the road laughing. It was good to see her like that. She had grown up so quickly but she was still so young. And then he heard her scream. ¡°Ilaria!¡± He sprinted around the corner to see her kneeling in the road. A man lay beside her in a pool of blood. A man in lavender robes. ¡°Arios! He needs our help! Help me turn him over!¡± He was soaked in blood and rain, and his body slipped from their hands as they tried to turn him upright. He must be dead. No one could lose that much blood. But Ilaria would not give up and eventually they managed to get him on his back. Ilaria screamed again and Arios pulled her away from the body. The man had no eyes. Chapter 9 Chapter 9 They were in the Council House. In a side room reserved for scribes. It housed quill, ink and more parchment than Arios had ever seen in oaken shelves twice his height. In the center was a stately desk which had been cleared to make way for the dead man. He lay there cold, pale, his robes stained dark. But on his face, there was little blood. In place of eyes a black void like a gaping maw swallowed all light. ¡°An unusual method of murder to be sure,¡± offered Lord Demarcus turning the man¡¯s head. ¡°The Kyrithon do have an unnatural obsession with sight. ¡°There is no doubt it is their work,¡± replied Lord Pyragos. ¡°The work is rushed but skilled. See how the tendons are still intact. It is the first procedure all Kyrithon Surgeons must master. I have seen it too many times to mistake it.¡± ¡°The boy said he had a woman companion.¡± Arios stood in the back with Father watching. Lord Argyros¡¯s face was red and he reeked of wine. He had both hands on the desk and it creaked and groaned under the task of supporting his enormous weight. He seemed utterly perplexed by the idea. Arios thought him to be the least lordly man in the room. ¡°Yes, all their surgeons are women.¡± Pyragos¡¯s reply was short and cold but in the drunken lord¡¯s stupor it went unnoticed. ¡°Forgive our ignorance Lord Pyragos, we had been so removed from the war and received little news of its ongoings,¡± muttered Lord Theron sullenly. Having been so summarily displanted he had so far been unable to hide his disdain for the general. ¡°But what is to be done now? I have sent my men to gather information at the Market Hall.¡± ¡°That will not be necessary,¡± dismissed Pyragos. ¡°I have already ascertained the identity of this man and have sent my men to his home for the wife.¡± ¡°You are always three steps ahead aren¡¯t you,¡± sniffed Theron and he sank into silence glaring at Pyragos from the shadows. Finally, Lord Kalydor spoke. ¡°We must inform the city of these events.¡± His words were slow, measured and his face was grave. ¡°The Kyrithon promised no violence and yet in less than a fortnight they have already broken this vow.¡± ¡°Are you sure that would be wise,¡± rushed Theron. ¡°The entire market saw the man escorted away by the men of Lord Pyragos. Soon after he was found dead and mutilated.¡± He feigned concern but could not hide the delight in his eyes. ¡°We wouldn¡¯t want our citizens to think he had anything to do with this!¡± ¡°Just what exactly are you insinuating?¡± shouted Pyragos. Arios had never seen Pyragos even raise his voice. It was unsettling and unbecoming of his kingly visage. ¡°I am simply expressing my concern,¡± continued Theron cooly. He smiled at Pyragos. ¡°You are new to the city and soon after arriving Kenosia was besieged. Our people are unused to the hardships of war and to them it may appear, erroneous though it would be, as if you have brought it to their doorstep.¡± This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon. ¡°The people know who I am!¡± Pyragos was shaking with rage. ¡°I am cousin to the King! The people would never believe such gossip about his own blood. Kalydor?¡± He turned to face the steward. But Kalydor was shaking his head. ¡°Perhaps it would be best to wait until we have more information before informing the city.¡± He was muttering to himself. ¡°Yes, once we have captured the assassin. Give them someone else to blame.¡± He looked up. ¡°Lord Theron, for the time being I want your soldiers in the Middle Ward. See to it at once.¡± ¡°But of course, Lord Steward.¡± There was no effort at all to disguise his glee now and he swept past Pyragos arrogantly and left the chamber. When he was gone Kalydor turned to Pyragos, ¡°You mustn¡¯t let him goad you so.¡± Pyragos starred daggers at Kalydor but then paused and quickly composed himself, ¡°Did you really need to give him the Middle Ward?¡± ¡°Let him have this one thing Pyragos,¡± replied Kalydor. ¡°You have been far too hard on him and you being so young wounds his pride.¡± ¡°Nothing a few drinks wouldn¡¯t solve,¡± grumbled Argyros as he teetered back and forth and finally sank to the floor defeated. ¡°That seems to be all from our favorite lord,¡± snickered Demarcus. ¡°Let me call his servants¡± As Lord Demarcus opened the door to exit, Darios marched in to the room. ¡°Ah, Captain! Have you retrieved the wife?¡± Pyragos had perked up upon his entry and was now eagerly calling him over. ¡°Yes sir! A woman named Doreva. They lived in the Lower Ward. Plain looking woman. Brown curls, wide face, not at all like the woman Arios here described.¡± He nodded to Arios and his father then continued, ¡°She did not seem particularly upset about her husband¡¯s death though. Said something along the lines of him getting what he deserved.¡± ¡°That is no good,¡± cried Pyragos. ¡°Darios, I need this criminal found and soon.¡± ¡°Of course, milord, we shall double our efforts.¡± ¡°Do not forget, your men are not to enter the Middle Ward,¡± interjected Kalydor. Pyragos threw up his hands, disgusted, ¡°Then we must leave this matter to the whims of a fool!¡± ¡°Mind yourself Pyragos. You are dear to me but this is still my city and I must be obeyed.¡± He placed a hand on the young general¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Lord Theron knows the city. Let him handle this. It is likely all he will be able to contribute.¡± ¡°If you believe that to be best, Lord Steward.¡± Pyragos turned away as Kalydor sighed. ¡°Captain, bring me to the woman. Even if she is not the assassin, she may know more than she is letting on.¡± He then looked at Arios speaking to him for the first time, ¡°Boy, would you be able to identify the woman you saw this morning?¡± ¡°Y-y-yes sir,¡± stammered Arios. It was difficult to get the word out. He had never to spoken to a man of such import like Lord Pyragos. One so close to the King. He could not pass up this chance to prove himself. ¡°Good. Come with us. You too Daidal.¡± Father stepped forward, ¡°Before we leave, I must inform Lord Kalydor of another troubling matter Arios and his sister witnessed this morning.¡± ¡°Go on,¡± instructed the Lord Steward. ¡°It appears the merchants of the Middle Ward have increased the cost of many basic goods. They blame the war but we all know that Kenosia has vast stores. The burden of this increase will devastate our community, even more so if these costs have spread to the Lower Ward.¡± ¡°Just good business¡­¡± mumbled Argyros, who was now flat on his back. ¡°This is a serious matter indeed. Thank you Daidal. When Lord Argyros has recovered, I will make sure as Master of Commerce that he disciplines the Merchant Guild and prohibits the raising of cost on all necessary goods.¡± Arios felt a wave of relief wash over him. Many of these men were petty and small but Lord Kalydor was a great man. He cared for Kenosia. The Kyrithon would be unable to break the city as long as he was its steward. Kalydor began to make his way out of the chamber, ¡°Now. Let us see about this woman.¡± Chapter 10 Chapter 10 There were no dungeons in the Council House but Darios led them deep underground into its cellars. The air grew cold as they descended and, in the torchlight, Arios observed strange white crystals forming on the walls around him. There was a soft scratching behind the stones, barely perceptible, none of the others made any comment. Perhaps his mind was playing tricks on him. ¡°Not much further,¡± called Darios. He led the way, torchlight dancing on his bronze plate. ¡°Sorry to go so deep but we wanted her to be out of the way so no one would stumble upon her by mistake.¡± They reached the end of the stairs and came out in to a room holding barrels stacked to the ceiling. Was this one of Lord Argyros¡¯s famous wine stores? The room was dark, barely lit by the torches each man held. At the end of the room was a small wooden door. ¡°She¡¯s just in there.¡± Darios pulled a brass key from around his neck and ushered them through across the threshold. It was a small room and the light from their torches adequately illuminated it. The woman, Devora, sat in a wooden chair, head in her hands. She had no chains or ties. She looked to be Father¡¯s age. Her face was broad and weathered from years in the sun. A tangle of umber curls and thin dark eyes. ¡°Arios?¡± Lord Kalydor inquired. ¡°It was not her.¡± He replied. Devora looked up at him gratefully then spoke, ¡°Its like I said before, Marcen was a fool who stepped out on me too many times, but I loved him all the same. I would never have done anything to harm him.¡± Her voice was composed but Arios could see the tears that stained her face. ¡°Just because you are not your husband¡¯s assassin does not mean you are not complicit in his death.¡± Lord Pyragos stepped forward torchlight revealing gritted teeth and a furrowed brow. ¡°Now, now, Pyragos look at the lady. She is clearly in great pain.¡± Kalydor knelt beside the chair and took Devora¡¯s hands in his own. ¡°I am so sorry Devora. It is an unimaginable agony to lose a loved one, and for those yet to feel it¡¯s sting impossible to understand. If it would ease your mind know this, it was no jilted lover but the work of Kyrithon agents inside the city who took the life of your dear Marcen.¡± Devora choked back a sob gripping the stewards¡¯ hands tightly. ¡°You can help us, Devora. Tell us everything you know about your late husband¡¯s activity these past weeks. Leave nothing out, any detail no matter how small may be the one that leads us to these criminals. Can you do this?¡± Devora nodded and Kalydor pulled a second chair over to her gesturing to Pyragos. ¡°Be gentle with her.¡± The young General took the seat then began, ¡°Tell me woman, was your husband much changed since the start of the siege? Were there any changes to his routine? Did he begin frequenting anywhere new or with new acquaintances?¡± The torchlight flickered across her face and the flames shown in her eyes as she thought. Then, voice broken, in a whisper, she spoke, ¡°Marcen always loved his drink but since the siege he began drinking in the Middle Ward more and more.¡± The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. ¡°Do you know the name of the establishment?¡± ¡°It is called the Saffron Veil.¡± ¡°Are you familiar?¡± asked Kalydor. ¡°It¡¯s a brothel¡± ¡ªDevora shuddered at this but stayed silent ¡ª ¡°and a costly one at that. Only my officers can afford its services.¡± Pyragos looked to Darios, ¡°Have you been?¡± Darios stood in the corner eyes far away. ¡°I am not one for brothels Sir.¡± ¡°Well regardless¡± ¡ª He turned his attention back towards Devora ¡ª ¡°I was not aware your husband had the coin for such fineries?¡± She wrung her hands, ¡°That¡¯s what I told him. I told him no good would come of this and he went and got himself killed over it.¡± ¡°You have been of great help to us Devora.¡± Said Kalydor kindly. ¡°Tell us is there anything more we might make use of? Anything at all?¡± ¡°I believe he borrowed a large sum of money. From who I know not but they would know at the¡­at the brothel. I wish there was more I could do Sirs but at the time I thought nothing of his actions. He was always a fool¡­¡± She wrapped her head in her arms and was silent save for the quiet splashing of tears on the stone floor. ¡°That is enough for now.¡± ¡°Kalydor, I believe we should¡ª¡± ¡°I said enough Pyragos.¡± The Steward waved his hand towards Darios. ¡°Captain, would you escort Devora back to her home?¡± Darios looked first to Lord Pyragos and they starred at each other silently. Finally, he spoke, ¡°Of course milord, right away.¡± Darios helped the woman to her feet. As they passed Arios she looked up into his eyes. The torchlight cast a molten glow across her dark pupils. The burning light spilled out from their center and dripped a glowing ember from its edges. He began to hear singing. ¡°Do you hear it?¡± He pulled on his father¡¯s sleeves anxiously. ¡°Hear what? Arios?¡± ¡°They have started singing. It must be sundown.¡± ¡°I hear nothing Arios we are too far underground.¡± But he looked concerned. ¡°Your sister will be worried; we have left her alone for too long.¡± ¡°We should all leave.¡± Replied Kalydor. ¡°But remember Pyragos do not bring your men to the Middle Ward.¡± ¡°As you wish Kalydor.¡± But his eyes betrayed the lie. As they climbed the stairs to the main hall the singing grew louder and Arios could see his father grow more and more upset. He gripped Arios by the hand and led him through the dark. As they reached the top, he could feel the relief wash over his father as his entire body relaxed. ¡°Arios come here boy; I would speak to you for a moment, in private.¡± It was Lord Pyragos. What could he want with me? Arios felt a sudden rush. He had been singled out, personally requested by a great lord. He looked to Father eyes beseechingly. He saw fear in his face but also resignation. ¡°Go on Arios. But do not be foolhardy.¡± They walked away together and stepped into a private chamber. Up close Arios could see that Lord Pyragos was even younger than he imagined. He could only be a year or two older than Arios himself and yet he was a General.¡± The lord starred at him thoughtfully. ¡°You are the only one who saw the assassin?¡± ¡°My sister was there as well.¡± ¡°Well, she would not be out of place in a brothel but I imagine that would not sit well with your father.¡± ¡°No Sir?¡± He could not be suggesting what Arios thought he was. ¡°As you have heard too many times this day, my men are no longer allowed in the Middle Ward.¡± He spat the words out bitterly. ¡°And yet someone must visit the Saffron Veil. I refuse to let that fool Lord Theron ruin this investigation. I will go myself but I will need you to identify the assassin. We will go tonight, do you understand?¡± Arios could not believe his ears. A secret mission? With the cousin of the King? If successful there would be a place for him in the ranks of Pyragos¡¯s army. ¡°Of course, Sir!¡± He nearly shouted it and for moment, he thought he saw a smile flash across the face of the General. ¡°Very good. Let us return to the others. Do not speak a word of this.¡± Arios nodded. As they returned to the main hall, they heard the shouts of Lord Kalydor. ¡°What do you mean he¡¯s gone!?¡± They turned the last corner to see Lord Kalydor, face red with anger. As they approached Kalydor looked to Pyragos, ¡°The body!¡± he cried. ¡°It has vanished!¡± Chapter 11 Chapter 11 ¡°I am so sorry you both have been swept up in all this madness.¡± Father was staring at them. Arios could see the pain in his eyes, could hear the struggle in his words. They sat around the table eating the meal Ilaria had prepared them. She sat silently picking at the fish unable to force herself to eat. ¡°You are too young for such horrors¡­¡± He scratched his beard uneasily and then continued, ¡°Tonight does not seem to be the night for it but¡­when you are ready, I hope you will come to me.¡± He took their hands in his own. ¡°Let me help guide you through this.¡± Arios thought to reassure his father that all was well but when he saw Ilaria¡¯s face the look of shock still etched upon it he lost all words. Instead, he squeezed his father¡¯s hand and hoped he would understand. Ilaria sat, frozen. After some time, she rose abandoning her untouched meal and quickly left the room. When she had disappeared into her chamber Arios spoke, ¡°She will be well won¡¯t she?¡± ¡°Your sister is strong,¡± replied Father. ¡°But to stumble upon a corpse at that age is no laughing matter. Especially one that had been so desecrated. We must give her time.¡± They sat in silence finishing their meal. Even after such a traumatic ordeal Ilaria had still made sure to prepare the evening meal. She had been all alone for hours. He and Father had been swept away by soldiers to the Council House. What must have gone through her mind as she sat alone in their home until well past sundown. But she had not complained. She had not spoken at all. But she had still done her duties. Ilaria was strong, stronger than anyone knew, stronger than him. She would be herself again, he knew it. Father rose. ¡°I will look in on her before I sleep.¡± He started to leave but stopped in the doorway and looked back at Arios. ¡°I love you, my son.¡± He paused searching for the words, ¡°Please¡­please take care.¡± Then he disappeared into the hall. Arios waited. He watched the moon rise high, drifting in and out of storm clouds. When the moon was at its peak he finally stood. Grabbing his cloak, he stepped out into the rain. He made his way towards the Street of Lanterns. It was a place he had been forbidden from entering. It had a dark reputation and Father made sure he knew it. He had never disobeyed that command but all knew of its whereabouts. It was the most infamous street in the Middle Ward. As he approached the street, he felt his beat quicken. The rain fell steadily on the cobblestone and although the hour was late it was still bright and bustling. ¡°Arios!¡± A voice called out to him. And out of the rain appeared Lord Pyragos. Gone were the lavish robes and sparkling plate he wore in the High Ward. Instead, he wore a dark verdant cloak that hid a gray tunic beneath. They were still of fine quality but no one would see him as a lord. Just another wealthy merchant¡¯s son off on a midnight jaunt through the Street of Lanterns. ¡°Arios, I am glad you have come.¡± Pyragos looked him over, ¡°You look like this is your first time, that will play to our advantage. Come with me.¡± He started down the street but stopped and turned back whispering, ¡°Tonight you will call me Elion.¡± They walked down the street. Each door lined with lanterns. As customers entered an establishment a barboy would rush out to extinguish a lantern. Some doors were already closed all of their lanterns dark. At the end of the road was the Saffron Veil. Only one lantern still alight. In its doorway stood a tall woman. She wore a loose-fitting ivory robe. Her face was painted white and her lips a deep red. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°We are full tonight dears!¡± She called out as they approached. ¡°You will have better luck further up the street.¡± ¡°I still see one lantern lit!¡± replied Pyragos as they continued towards her. ¡°The less lanterns the more coin!¡± She laughed in reply. ¡°You¡¯d be hard pressed to find a man as young as yourself that could afford it.¡± Pyragos held out a large golden coin placing it in her hand. ¡°I think you will find that we have coin to spare.¡± He nodded at her as she slipped it into her robes. ¡°Gold just like your hair.¡± She starred at him quizzically, ¡°I have not seen you before. You come in with the soldiers?¡± ¡°Not at all. I live in the High Ward, just wanted to try something new.¡± ¡°I suppose if you have the coin there is plenty new to be found here. What is your name?¡± ¡°You may call me Elion and its not my coin it¡¯s my fathers, but only I know how to spend it.¡± The woman¡¯s eyes rose and she started to laugh. I high pitched fluttering sound and her whole body shook with it. ¡°Well Elion, at least you know what you are, Eh? Now who is your friend here?¡± ¡°I am Arios.¡± Then mustering his confidence and raising his voice, ¡°You are very beautiful.¡± She smiled gently at him, ¡°First time, is it?¡± His face grew red, ¡°Of course not, I¡ª¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t be silly,¡± interrupted Pyragos. ¡°I thought I would show him a good time in case things got really bad.¡± ¡°A true friend indeed.¡± The woman knelt down and extinguished the last flame. Returning to her feet she handed a black coin to Pyragos. ¡°When you to get down there make sure to show them this coin. You¡¯ll be taken care of.¡± She then turned to Arios, ¡°You¡¯ll be just fine, don¡¯t you worry dear.¡± She winked at him and ushered them through the door and down the stairs. The lounge was dimly lit. It smelled sweet, of perfume and incense. The air hazy, filled with smoke drifting lazily towards the ceiling. When they reached the last step, a tall, broad man approached them. ¡°Coin?¡± He grunted ¡°Here you are,¡± replied Pyragos handing him the coin. The man grunted in response, gesturing for them to follow. He led them threw the crowded lounge. Patrons sat in velvet booths laughing and drinking. All around walked women. Some joined the tables. Others called out enticing men to follow them up one of the many stairways. They wore much tighter robes than Arios had ever seen. Some wore no robes at all. Arios felt his face blush and he could not meet their eyes. Finally, they were at their seats. As they sat two women approached them. ¡°Not yet ladies,¡± chuckled Pyragos. ¡°Look at this one here. Frightened as new born lamb. Bring us some wine. When you see him finally at ease then, come and join us.¡± They smiled, disappearing back in to the crowd. ¡°I-I wish you would not embarrass me so!¡± spluttered Arios. ¡°Arios, you must lean in to it! You are doing exactly as I had hoped. No one will suspect a thing of a of a young man shyly bumbling his way through his first visit to a brothel.¡± A large bottle of wine and two glasses were placed before them. Pyragos poured the wine. ¡°Here, try to relax.¡± He raised his glass and downed it. Arios followed suit. It was much stronger than the wine he drank with Father. He choked it down as Pyragos refilled their cups. ¡°Arios, what do you see?¡± ¡°Nothing yet.¡± ¡°We have all night; we will find her.¡± They sipped their drinks, watching the crowd. There were two men arguing over a woman. She sat between as they counted coin, offering larger and larger sums. They spoke for so long that eventually they sank into their seats snoring. The woman took the coin and left with a third man. ¡°Captain Darios tells me you wish to be a soldier.¡± The words startled Arios. ¡°Yes, very much so.¡± Pyragos grimaced, ¡°You may feel differently once the siege is over.¡± ¡°If anything, my resolve has only grown since the Kyrithon arrived. I cannot stand idly by as others fight to protect me.¡± ¡°These are powerful words Arios. Any would be honored to stand beside someone with such conviction.¡± ¡°I wonder¡­¡± He paused but the drink had made him too bold, ¡°I wonder if I might join your ranks when you leave the city.¡± Pyragos grinned, ¡°It seems you are already at ease.¡± He motioned towards the women from earlier ¡°If when I leave the city that is still your wish. Come to me.¡± Arios was elated. There could be no stopping him now. He turned as the women approached. Perhaps he would speak with them. It was only right; he had a part to play here. But as he watched them something caught his eye. Behind them leaning gracefully against the bar counter was a willowy figure. Her black curls braided into a single plait flowed down past her waist. Her face was pale but unpainted and her gray eyes watched the room intently. It was the woman from the Market Hall. The assassin. Chapter 12 Chapter 12 ¡°She¡¯s here!¡± whispered Arios. ¡°Over there! Leaning against the bartop!¡± Pyragos turned, eyes wide, ¡°Her? In the ebony robes? Can you be sure?¡± ¡°Yes. There is no doubt in my mind.¡± A pair of Candle Maidens sat down at the table beside them. Painted faces matching their ivory robes. Shining stones on their necks and in their hair. The one closest to Pyragos, just as golden haired as he was, spoke, ¡°You appear to be both well at ease now. May we pour your wine Sirs?¡± She lifted the jug in anticipation. ¡°A most charming proposition,¡± replied Pyragos. ¡°It is only that my companion here has just spotted an old acquaintance of his, he will call on her quickly and soon return.¡± Arios felt his stomach coil and tighten. He was being trusted to confront the assassin on his own? He looked to Pyragos confused, ¡°Yes, well¡­I will¡­¡± ¡°Look at how he struggles!¡± Laughed Pyragos and the girls joined in, a lilting melodic chime. ¡°Has it been so long my friend? Do not worry, all will be well. Ask her about herself, show an interest in her plans, this will surely please her. See if she would like to join us one of these nights, perhaps we can wait out this dreadful business in each other¡¯s company. Go on be quick!¡± He pulled the women close to him. ¡°I have enough wit to keep these fine ladies entertained for a short while and if not, more than enough coin!¡± Arios left the table. The sound of the women¡¯s laughter as Pyragos made one boastful claim after another all the while calling for more drink faded into the humming ambience as he pressed towards the assassin and deeper into the crowd. Pyragos played his part well. It was less crowded by the bartop. There were no seating so drunken patrons avoided it and without any one to sell to the Candle Maidens made themselves scarce as well. Only returning to collect an endless stream of wine from the Bar Master. The assassin stood alone nursing a cup of a very dark liquid. He approached the Bar Master first, ¡°A cup of your finest wine and when the lady finishes, her next drink.¡± It was a calculated risk. He had no means to pay for anything and was desperately hoping you were meant to settle your score at the end of the night. The man did not even blink. ¡°Right away Sir,¡± he replied. He turned away from the counter. The wall was lined with presses. Each door had a small circular indent of which many had disks of various colors placed upon them. The man located a door with an obsidian chip, the one Pyragos had received when they had entered. Then from underneath the counter he withdrew several copper coins and placed them inside it. ¡°You are a little young for such an establishment are you not?¡± It was the assassin. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. ¡°I believe all are welcome here, provided they have sufficient coin.¡± It was a deep voice and not his own, he hoped came across as more confident and mature. The women¡¯s eyes told him that he had failed in this regard. ¡°It does seem that the contents of one¡¯s purse is all that is considered in this world. A shame.¡± She had finished her drink and the Bar Master refilled it hastily. He then placed Arios¡¯s cup beside him. She took the cup raising it towards Arios and nodded, Arios took his cup and returned the favor. ¡°It seems tonight that at the very least coin has earned me a chance to speak with you. So, it cannot be all bad. What may I call you?¡± The woman took a long sip from her cup and was silent. Arios wondered if he had been to forward but finally, she replied, ¡°You may call me Syretha. And you, young master? ¡°Arios,¡± he replied carelessly. He saw her eyes narrow for a moment and panic shot through him like a bolt of lightning. Should he have used a different name? Pyragos would have but he was a lord. Arios was a common enough name; he had imagined her reaction. He returned to meet her gaze, she seemed undisturbed but there was still the smallest of creases in brow. ¡°Well met Arios.¡± She gestured behind him. ¡°I believe you are beginning to worry your companion.¡± He turned. Pyragos was laughing and drinking just as he had been when Arios had left. But if you looked for long enough you could catch him. Whenever he drank from his cup, he kept his eyes locked on Arios. ¡°I told him we were old friends,¡± he confessed. ¡°In truth I only hoped to make your acquaintance. He is just making sure I do not make a fool of myself.¡± She smiled at him. ¡°You are an intriguing young man, Arios. I am glad to have this moment with you.¡± She leaned in close until their faces were nearly touching. ¡°Perhaps you would like to buy me another drink.¡± Another drink might loosen her tongue. She had given nothing away yet but nor had she spurned him. She was quite beautiful. ¡°Yes, another round.¡± He motioned to the Bar Master who looked to Syretha. She nodded and the man disappeared underneath the counter returning with two large flagons. He took a deep drink and Syretha placed a hand on his shoulder, ¡°Arios this may seem strange but, I wish to ask you about the Kyrithon.¡± This wasn¡¯t right. Wasn¡¯t he supposed to be asking her about that? ¡°What about those heretics?¡± He muttered angrily. ¡°The singing. I am told some of our citizens are hearing it even when they shouldn¡¯t be. Do you know anything of this?¡± What a curios question. He took another drink. But he had heard them had he not? Deep in the cellars. Father had not heard them at all. ¡°I¡­today¡­in the cellars,¡± he mumbled. The words were not coming out the way he meant them. Syretha inhaled sharply and turned away from Arios. He was having a hard time focusing but he thought he saw her waving to someone. When she turned back to him her eyes were shining. ¡°Arios, tell me of your dreams! What have you seen?¡± It was little more than a whisper, quick and breathless, and desperate. He heard a loud slam and looked up dazed. There was something happening at Pyragos¡¯s table. A large crowd had gathered around it and he could no longer see him but he was shouting wildly. He should return, Pyragos may be in need of help. ¡°Arios!¡± She took his face in her hands pulling him close to her. ¡°I need you tell me of your dreams. Has there been anything discomforting about them of late?¡± ¡°The Kallidra¡­my mother¡­¡± he could barely get the words out. ¡°But she¡¯s dead¡­¡± He pulled away and his head slipped, cracking on the counter below. There was fighting going on around him. He wanted to rise but was slipping away. He looked up towards Syretha for help. She stood above him, there were tears in her eyes. ¡°I am so sorry Arios.¡± He slipped into darkness those last words echoing in his mind. Chapter 13 Chapter 13 ¡°A dream about his mother!? Surely you cannot be serious? What child would not dream of a lost parent?¡± The voices swirled around Arios. Drifting in and out of hearing. Bright lights hung above but he saw nothing. ¡°What of his name?¡± A woman spoke now. He recognized her voice. But where was he? ¡°Yes, yes, I know our orders. But it is a common enough name. For Arram¡¯s sake the boy¡¯s father is on the council. This will leave us more vulnerable than we can manage.¡± It was an old voice, tired and angry. ¡°By that time, we will be gone. I looked in the boy¡¯s eyes and I saw it. You must trust me.¡± ¡°You mean you will be gone. I will have to clean the mess you leave behind.¡± ¡°Do they suspect you?¡± ¡°Of course not.¡± ¡°Then I see no issue.¡± ¡°The boy being here means they are already on to us. And what of Lord Pyragos?¡± ¡°He has been sufficiently distracted for the present, but we must hurry.¡± His vision returned to him. Arios blinked or rather tried to. His eyes were being held open buy some unknown force. He tried to move but his body would not comply. His breath quickened, straining for air as his chest rose and fell in terrifying fashion. What had they done to him? ¡°The boy is awake,¡± sighed the old man. ¡°Give him something to calm his nerves.¡± ¡°I cannot,¡± replied Syretha. ¡°The physic I slipped him cannot be mixed it would be fatal and besides, he needs to be awake for this.¡± She appeared over him. ¡°I am so sorry Arios but this needs to be done.¡± He screamed for help but the call never left him. His voice was gone. Panic truly held him now and his chest heaved dangerously searching for his breath as his throat tightened. ¡°You better hurry. The boy seems like to suffocate.¡± ¡°In a moment, I just need to explain it to him, it will be too late after.¡± ¡°Why should we care? He is not one of us!¡± shouted the old man. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. ¡°But he is.¡± She sighed, ¡°He just does not know it.¡± Her voice was sad and wavering. She placed her hand on his chest and for a moment his breathing slowed. ¡°Arios, we have been searching for one like you for so long.¡± She took his hand in hers, ¡°You are going to show us the way.¡± He felt her tears dampen his tunic as they streamed down her face. ¡°You have a gift. Bestowed upon you by our God, Arram. But it comes at a great cost. Limitless sight is at odds with our ability to comprehend this world. And so¡ª¡± her voice cracked ¡°¡ªto keep the vessel from corruption it must be separated from its understanding.¡± She disappeared from his sight and he heard the man speak again, ¡°I must take my leave. I cannot be discovered here. When you are done, take him to the Lower Ward. She will house him until we have found a way to secret you both from the city. I pray that you are right about this one.¡± Arios heard the door creek open then slowly close again as the man departed. It was quiet now. The panic that once gripped his being had transformed into a calm resignation. Whatever lay in store for him, there was nothing he could do to change it now. He heard the stifled sobs of Syretha and thought of his father. Father had warned him, begged him not to be so reckless. Arios had been so close. So close to making a difference, to mattering in this conflict. But Father had been right. Would Lord Pyragos tell him? Had Pyragos even made it out himself? He thought of Ilaria. She would need to protect Father now. His finger twitched. Syretha appeared again. She held a long thin pick in one hand and a small hammer in the other. She was no longer in tears her eyes focused and when she spoke her voice firm and unwavering, ¡°Arram blesses us all with is gifts. And he greatest of his gifts, is the gift of sight. But none will see as far as you. Arios you will walk in worlds unknown, through seas of darkness and through pillars of light. And from these worlds you will relay to us the words of our Father. It is a noble sacrifice and a terrible one all the same. You will guide us to him Arios and for that I thank you.¡± She took the pick and held it above his eye. Then slowly, deliberately she lowered it, carefully positioning it in the corner between the orb and socket. Then she slid it through. A single line of blood cut down the side of his face. Syretha leaned down and whispered, ¡°Forgive me.¡± Then she raised the hammer high. The door slammed open! Arios heard shouting as someone burst into the room. Syretha whirled around drawing a long, jagged dagger from her robes as she turned. And then she was gone. He heard the ring of steel first and then shuffling of feet. His fingers were moving now but the rest of him remained motionless. There was a pained grunt followed by a dull thud as a body went crashing into a wall or more terrifyingly hit the floor. He tried to will his body in to action. This might be his only chance to escape but struggle as he might his body was rooted to the table. There was a chilling shriek then the metal clashed again. It rang in his ears, quickly followed by a gasp and then a slow dripping. One pair of feet was moving much faster than the other now. It was light leaping around the room as the second pair slowly stomped behind it. For a time, the dance continued, ringing steel followed by periods of shuffling as each searched for the best moment to strike. The ragged breath of the two combatants filled the air. Then the room went dark. It was silent. Arios¡¯s heart pounded in his chest. Suddenly, a rush of movement and then a cracking sound followed by a wheeze quickly extinguished by a second bone crunching crack. Arios felt the body hit him. It was warm and wet and pressed down upon him. In the dark it was impossible to know the victor but the body touching him was dead. He felt the blood spread across the table splashing down onto the floor. Then he heard a thud as the second body fell. It was so dark, all he could hear was the dripping and he was all alone. Chapter 14 Chapter 14 Arios journeyed down a hall devoid of light. It could have been an aqueduct for there was rushing water up to the knees. It was cold and dark; water fell from the ceiling splashing all around in a haunting ceaseless drip. He had been walking for hours. At first, he had stumbled a long, hands ever searching ahead, feeling for an end that never came. He had long since abandoned this hope. It was an endless tunnel, all that was for him was to press on. Around him were the scuttling of tiny beings. They nipped and clawed at his heels, driving him forward. He did not dare imagine what would become of him if he were to stop moving. He walked on, the cold sank in to his bones and his feet began to stiffen. It crept up his legs climbing higher with each step. Soon his body would betray him. Then and only then would his tiny pursuers reveal their true intent. He shouted in to the void, screaming and crying. It was unfair. He did not deserve this horrid fate. Why was he here? To his surprise a voice called out in response. ¡°Arios! Arios, Come home.¡± The voice was soft and sweet. It reminded him of his sister but somehow older. It warmed his heart and lifted his spirits. ¡°What would you have me do?¡± ¡°Worry not dear boy. I will show you the way.¡± Ahead a small light began to grow. How far he could not tell but it was warm, and bright, and it called to him. The light of the sun. His pace quickened and with it his pursuers. They tore into the flesh beneath the rushing current, desperately trying to latch on and pull him back. There were multiple forces at play here. The sudden appearance of light was unexpected and unwelcome to these creatures. ¡°Hurry! Arios, Hurry! He felt the last of his warmth spill out of the tears in his legs and the cold rushed in. His legs went numb, frozen in place. He felt the creatures climbing up to his torso as he sank into the waters to meet them. ¡°Arios, come home!¡± But it was too late, the light already was fading. He awoke to frenzied shouts. ¡°How dare you! He is just a boy. My boy!¡± His eyes took a moment to adjust to the sudden light of the world. He was in the Council Hall, laying on a great slab of obsidian marble. He saw Father before him, his face was pale but his eyes burned. ¡°I understand you anger,¡± a voice replied calmly. ¡°But you cannot be suggesting that this is somehow my fault.¡± ¡°This is your city is it not?¡± His father¡¯s voice shook with rage. These words were for Lord Kalydor!? ¡°Lord Pyragos is under your charge and yet he felt free to take my son and command him like a common soldier! He could have been killed!¡± Underneath his father¡¯s anger was agony, but deeper still lay relief. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. ¡°He could have been. But no harm came to him.¡± ¡°No harm¡ª¡± ¡°¡ªWhich is more than can be said of Lord Pyragos. Be glad of your son¡¯s wellbeing Daidal, one who is very nearly a son of my own may not survive the morning.¡± The words cut deep. Arios had failed Pyragos. He had gotten himself captured, abandoning the young general to fight alone. If the lord died it would be on his shoulders to bear. Father was now sunken in his council seat. Lord Kalydor stood beside him; hand placed upon his shoulder. ¡°It is¡± ¡ªhis voice wavered¡ª ¡°lucky we got them both out.¡± The loud thud of boots echoed through the hall. ¡°Lord Theron! Weolcome! We are both most thankful for your service and should you desire anything you only need ask.¡± Lord Theron¡¯s eyes were bloodshot. His dark curls matted, clinging to his face. He wore plate and his cloak was stained red. ¡°It was only my duty Lord Steward.¡± His words were humble but his face shown with pride. ¡°I am here to give my report.¡± ¡°Of course, please,¡± Kalydor gestured to an empty seat beside him and they sat together. ¡°I lost three men in the fighting. Two others are being treated now but seem like to live. There will need to be payments made to each of their families.¡± ¡°When you have settled on a figure, please send a scribe to me and I will make sure they receive it. Continue.¡± ¡°It appears there was a small contingent of Lord Pyragos¡¯s men in the brothel yesternight. There were six of them. All dead. Slain by Kyrithon agents while they drank. We took as many as we could alive and slaughtered the rest.¡± Pyragos had brought other men to the Saffron Veil? Arios had not even noticed. In hindsight it seemed like an obvious move. ¡°That rash fool,¡± sighed Kalydor. ¡°He could not even follow my commands for one evening and now nine soldiers are slain and he himself on deaths door.¡± ¡°The general and I have had our differences, all know it. But his plan was sound if not sanctioned. It is lucky that I myself was of a similar mind and so was nearby with my men when things turned sour.¡± ¡°They say you found my son.¡± It was Father. Voice hoarse and wretched. ¡°Indeed, I did. Although he was not in need of much saving when I came upon him. It was Pyragos that slew the assassin. I found them all lying together.¡± He paused, ¡°You son is awake by the way.¡± Father gasped and rushed to his side. ¡°Arios! Arios, are you well? What did they do to you, my son?¡± He took Arios in his arms holding him close, weeping. ¡°Father I am quite well,¡± choked Arios. ¡°Please, you are going to squeeze the breath out of me!¡± Father released him and stepped back. He wiped the tears from his eyes and the fire returned to them. ¡°What were you thinking!?¡± ¡°Father I¡ª¡± ¡°Think of your sister, does she deserve such a fool for a brother?¡± He grabbed Arios again caught between a father¡¯s anger and the relief of having his son back. ¡°We will speak more later. For now, be silent.¡± ¡°Perhaps it would be best if you took the boy home,¡± interrupted Kalydor. ¡°Yes, yes, his sister will be overjoyed to see him well.¡± ¡°Before you leave, I must question him for moment. Arios, come here.¡± He rose. Father grasped his tunic tightly but relinquished as he pulled away. ¡°What information can I provide to you, Lord Kalydor?¡± ¡°From the placement of the bodies it seems the assassin had taken you prisoner and that Lord Pyragos had come to your rescue. Is that so?¡± ¡°Yes sir.¡± ¡°What was their interest in you?¡± ¡°I think she meant to bait Lord Pyragos to her with me.¡± He did not know why he lied, only that it felt right to do so. What would they do to him if they thought he was important to the Kyrithon. ¡°They meant to torture me to draw the general in with my screams.¡± ¡°They?¡± It was Lord Theron. ¡°There was an older man with her but he left before my¡­ my rescue.¡± Pyragos had given up everything to see him safe. He did not deserve it. ¡°I did not see his face but from their conversation it seemed he was nobleman.¡± ¡°The stain of Kyrithon corruption is wider than we thought,¡± whispered Kalydor. ¡°Lord Theron you are in command of the city¡¯s defenses while Lord Pyragos mends. Root out these agents, from the lowest peasant to the noblest lord. Come we have much to discuss.¡± They left the hall leaving Arios alone with Father. ¡°I am sorry,¡± he mumbled. ¡°We will talk later. For now, I need to bask in the relief that your safety brings me. I love you, my son.¡± He took him by the hand, ¡°Arios, Come home.¡± Chapter 15 Chapter 15 The rain was incessant. Arios starred out his window into the courtyard watching it melt before his eyes. Half of it was already submerged in wide pools the rest a sodden mass of sliding earth and detritus. All of it save for the Altar of Kallidrios. It was raised above the mire, set on a walkway of polished stone. Beneath its marble roof the flickering flame of its lamp struggled against the raging storm. The faint, resinous sweetness of burning incense rode the wind and through his window. Father had left early this morning but as always, he had first tended to the shrine. They had spoken no more of the events of last evening. Ilaria had gripped him tight calling his name over and over when they returned home. And Father had let go of his anger, so overjoyed was he to have his family whole again. He had too drunk quickly and too well and soon had been in need of his bed. Arios had been grateful for this, he too needed rest. ¡°Arios!¡± A voice shouted from outside the home. ¡°Arios are you here?¡± The great doors to the courtyard groaned as they swung open. A tall man, hood pulled over his face rushed in and under the peristyle to escape the rain. Arios left his room, joining the man on the peristyle. As he approached the man threw back his hood revealing the crooked nose and weathered face of Captain Darios. The usual twinkle in his eyes had gone, replaced by thin red veins and dark shadows. ¡°Arios are you well? I wished to call upon you yestereve but duty commanded me elsewhere.¡± ¡°I am quite well Darios, thank you.¡± He could see the relief on the tired man¡¯s face. ¡°I think we would be more comfortable in the dining hall.¡± He gestured to a nearby doorway. ¡°Lead the way.¡± They entered the room and sat at the low table. Arios poured two glasses of wine handing the first to Darios. They rose them silently and drank. ¡°How fares Lord Pyragos? Is he¡­?¡± Arios could not bear to finish. ¡°They say the worst is past him.¡± A deep exhale, ¡°That is most welcome news!¡± ¡°But still, he does not wake. The healers say it may be some time before he does.¡± Darios starred deep into his cup. ¡°It was my fault. I got myself captured and Pyragos was wounded in my rescue. He saved my life,¡± he finished weakly. Darios shook his head sadly, ¡°No Arios, the fault is mine. I am sworn to defend Lord Pyragos and I swore to your father I would do the same for you.¡± He took a large swig of wine fighting back tears. ¡°I should have been there; you are just boys¡­¡± ¡°Why were you not there? Pyragos brought other men to the brothel?¡± For a moment Darios seemed bewildered. His cup shook in his hand, then he whispered, ¡°I do not know¡­¡± If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. He had hurt Darios overstepping as he always did. Always pressing, always questioning. Why could he not keep his mouth shut. In desperation, and to change the topic he asked the first question that came to his mind, ¡°Darios, it has been some time, will you train with me this morning?¡± Darios looked up from his cup, ¡°In this weather?¡± ¡°Peril will not wait for the clouds to part. I must be ready for next time.¡± Darios pondered this for moment. The bluntness had lifted him from darker thoughts. ¡°I am to return to my duties at noon. We still seek the hollow-eyed corpse of that peasant, Marcen. What the Kyrithon want with his body is beyond me. They already have the only part they seem to care for.¡± He stroked his chin, ¡°Very well, call your sister. We can train in the courtyard. But not for long.¡± Arios crossed to Ilaria¡¯s room. He knocked on the door and called out to her. There was no response. He opened the door to see her sat at a table writing furiously. ¡°Ilaria?¡± She turned to face him. ¡°Darios has called upon us. We are to train with him in the courtyard. Are you well enough?¡± She nodded, standing to her feet. She did not speak but her eyes were full of light, burning with determination. She brushed past him into the hall. Darios had them train in the mud. Spear and shield. Crossing and weaving. The morass dragged them down seeping into their boots and drenching their tunics. The ground was uneven, treacherous. One wrong step could send you flying or worse sinking. ¡°Very good, both you!¡± Called Darios through the pounding rain. ¡°Come here a moment!¡± They approached him, breathlessly. ¡°Arios, I want you to focus on shielding, this will allow Ilaria more opportunities to attack¡± ¡°Darios I¡­¡± Should he not be the aggressor? ¡°Ilaria does not possess the strength to protect you both but her strikes are fierce and quick. You must learn to complement each other¡¯s skill. In battle, how well you do so will determine your chances at victory.¡± This wounded his pride but Arios held his tongue. Darios was a seasoned veteran. He would know what was best for them. Over the next hour Arios found the captain¡¯s words to be true. Ilaria was light and agile, she could duck under and around shield placement allowing her to strike from any angle. Darios brought out a smaller shield for Ilaria and they worked on formations that placed them both behind his shield. It was humbling to see his little sister excel in the ways Arios most desired and he felt hot with envy. But then remembered how she had been just yesterday. So, changed. The sharp-tongued, quick-witted girl he knew had looked so small. Shrunken and vulnerable, broken. To see her now was a revelation. She could have been dancing, the elegance of each movement, the precision of each strike. He confidence seemed to rise by the second. He would be her shield if it meant she would never lose herself again. Finally, Darios had had enough. They sat on the floor of the peristyle too dirtied to enter the dining hall. Darios pulled dates and fish from his pouch. They sat in silence eating, too tired to speak. ¡°Darios, thank you.¡± Ilaria broke the silence. It was the most she had said since they had discovered the eyeless corpse the day before. ¡°I do not know why you have taken such an interest in us but I am grateful all the same.¡± Darios looked at them or rather through them it seemed. ¡°I told you I was from the city of Eironeia, did I not?¡± They nodded. ¡°In my time there I worked as a guard in the house of a great lord. He had two children, Ilion and Nyria. Their mother had passed many years before and he had little time to raise them so it often fell to me to watch over the little ones.¡± He continued to stare past them, unable to meet their eyes. ¡°I grew to love them greatly. When the city fell their father abandoned them to save himself and I¡± ¡ªhe choked back a sob¡ª ¡°I could not save them.¡± Ilaria took the captain¡¯s hand in her own and looked up into his eyes, ¡°It will not be like that here Darios, you have already saved us.¡± This was too much for the poor man and turned away coughing and hacking to disguise his tears. Then he stood rather brusquely. ¡°I must take me leave. My men will be needing me.¡± His voice was stiff and wooden. ¡°You two keep up on your training. We will have another lesson as soon as I have the chance.¡± He turned and made his way towards the courtyard gate. As he did, the gate opened and a plated soldier stepped through. It was one of Lord Theron¡¯s men. ¡°Captain Darios, we have been searching all over for you. We have located the missing corpse. It is hanging in the Market Hall.¡± Chapter 16 Chapter 16 A crowd had gathered around the stairs to the Market Hall. It murmured uneasily, confused. There was an air of hostility, the people wished to enter the Hall but were blocked by soldiers up above. The soldiers were adorned in gold and sapphire, the colors of the King, but on their clasps was imprinted a black scorpion, the sigil of Lord Theron¡¯s household. ¡°I must join them, gather what information I can.¡± Darios left them to the crowd, pushing his way through the sea of people towards the steps and disappeared. Arios stood with his sister in the rain, waiting. The crowd was growing restless. There were shouts to open the market followed by cheers that quickly turned to hisses when the soldiers would not acquiesce. They did not know. No one had told them. They only knew it was cold, that they were hungry and that the King¡¯s men were denying them food. ¡°We should leave.¡± The rain was strong and there was nowhere to escape it here. Before long, their cloaks would soak through exposing them to the cold. ¡°Ilaria?¡± But she shook her head, starring up at the soldiers with gritted teeth, waiting. They waited; in the rain it seemed like hours. They grew wet and cold, what he wouldn¡¯t do for a roaring fire and hot wine. Finally, Arios saw movement up above, underneath the portico. Several men rushed out carrying a large canopy. Beneath it was a man dressed in fine turquoise robes. He had a young face, haughty and proud. In his hands was a parchment which he held up for all to see. ¡°People of the Middle Ward, I am Scribe Phaelos, I have been sent by Lord Theron who apologizes for keeping you in darkness.¡± His voice was high pitched but it boomed carrying through the rain. There was a smattering of sarcastic applause. ¡°It is with great sorrow that I inform you that this Quarter¡¯s Market Hall will be closed until further notice.¡± The crowd burst into boos, they rained down harder than any storm, Arios felt himself begin to rock as the people surged forward ever so slightly. ¡°Closed for what?¡± It was impossible to see who had asked the question but the crowd buzzed in agreement. ¡°We have the right to know,¡± called out another voice and the people roared. ¡°A man has been killed; his body hangs in the hall.¡± A hush fell over the crowd. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Who?¡± It was a much softer voice but, in the silence, all heard it speak. ¡°He has been identified as a man from the Lower Ward. He was known as Marcen.¡± The crowd began to whisper. Some remembered Marcen from his recent outburst in the Market Hall. ¡°You mean the man who was beaten to near death by city guards just two days past? He was my friend! The last any one saw of him he was being dragged off by soldiers!¡± The people grew more agitated as the shouting increased. ¡°I remember Marcen!¡± ¡°He had the stones to question the Merchant Guild!¡± ¡°He committed no crime!¡± ¡°The merchants are the true criminals! They attempt to profit from our suffering!¡± ¡°Perhaps the Kyrithon were right!¡± ¡°People! People! Calm yourselves,¡± Phaelos cried struggling to reign in the mob. ¡°It was the Kyrithon who slew this man! They desecrated his body, stealing his eyes as an offering to their false god!¡± ¡°Let us see him! We will decide for ourselves!¡± ¡°I cannot permit you to enter this building, by the order of Lord Theron.¡± There was fear in the scribe¡¯s voice. Let us decide!¡± The mass began to chant. ¡°Let us decide!¡± They had been whipped into a frenzy. Hours in the rain waiting for food had worn their patience. Their chants grew louder and louder as more people gathered drawn by their rage. Then suddenly from out of the throng broke a single man. He dashed up the steps and charged straight towards the scribe. He did not make it close. The light of the sun crept through the storm clouds and the glint of steel shone in its newfound light. There was a single scream and the man fell back tumbling down the steps towards the feet of the crowd. The ivory stairs painted red. There was a pause, and then the mob exploded. They surged forward swarming up the stairs sweeping Arios up in their current. Leaving his sister behind! ¡°Ilaria!¡± but his words were lost in the fighting. He stumbled up the steps, struggling to keep his balance. Any one that fell to this flood would surely never rise again. Beside him he heard a man howl and saw him fall clutching at his belly. A soldier pulled his spear from a body just as he was overwhelmed by half a dozen men and trampled beneath their feet. Rain mixed with blood forming a crimson sea that washed down the steps. Arios struggled for breath. He was trapped, slowly pressed between charging men behind him and fighting men ahead. He was going to be swept away, drowned in the waves of his own people. Then someone grabbed his arm and pulled him out. It was Ilaria. She dragged him out of the mass and away from the fighting. ¡°Arios, are you hurt?¡± Ilaria stood on the step above him doubled over heaving. There was blood in her braid and rips in her tunic. ¡°You saved me!¡± ¡°We are only safe for the moment.¡± The fighting had moved in to the market now. The stairs were littered with corpses, the air thick with the wails of the dying. Few had been lucky enough for a quick death instead having bits and pieces of them crushed by the pounding of hundreds of feet. Their dying was slow, their screams horrifying. ¡°Did you see Darios? He was not on the steps. He may be trapped in the hall. We must go to him!¡± But Arios did not want to. He wanted to go home. It had all happened so quickly. They had turned on one another. Kenosia was eating itself. Just as Archiereus Hesperion had said they would. ¡°Ilaria I¡­¡± He wretched, coughing and was sick. He tried to stand but his legs were too weak. Ilaria caught him as he fell. She looked into his eyes and saw the desperation, ¡°Let us go home,¡± she said. ¡°Darios must have left before the fighting.¡± She lifted him, propping him up under her shoulder as they descended the steps. Bells rang throughout the Middle Ward. Calling for help. ¡°Fire!¡± A voice shouted and dozens of men ran by. They donned dark tunics and bore the insignia of the Vigiles. ¡°Help us! They have set our stores ablaze!¡± Chapter 17 Chapter 17 The rain washed the red from Arios. He sat on the steps starring out at Kenosia. Dark plumes curled skyward, thick with grey ash and hot ember. It clung to the air choking the city. Below him bells rang, crying desperately for aid. And from all quarters of the city the Vigiles answered the call. They came running. In their dark leather coats, carrying tall ladders and great axes. They made towards the Low Ward and the Stacks, all the while raising the alarm, calling out for their brothers to join them. Arios sat on the steps. Starring out at his city. All around him the gold and sapphire soldiers marched. Struggling to regain order. The fighting seemed at its end but the sound of the dying remained unbroken. Even worse were the wails of the living. Mothers whose children had been torn from their arms and trampled beneath the mob, lovers whose partners had been cut down before their very eyes. They cursed and screamed calling out for the lost but there would be no answer. Arios sat on the steps starring out at the nightmare surrounding him. Above him was Ilaria. She stood tall and fierce. Her body tense, waiting, preparing for whatever horror came next. Smoke swirled around the steps blanketing the streets below in an obscuring fog. ¡°Arios! Ilaria!¡± A voice called out from the fiery haze. ¡°What are you doing here!?¡± Out of the smoke stepped Erykos. Robes ripped and burned, his builder¡¯s insignia barely clinging to his cloak. ¡°The fires! We must get you home!¡± He stumbled up the steps towards them. ¡°What has happened here?¡± He wheezed and then broke into a hacking guttural cough. ¡°The soldiers turned on the market goers,¡± replied Ilaria. ¡°The crowd whipped itself into a frenzy and drove them into a melee.¡± ¡°Impossible!¡± Gasped Erykos. ¡°What new madness has taken ahold of our city!?¡± ¡°It is just like I¡­¡± Ilaria fell silent. ¡°Help me get Ari away from here! He was caught up in the mob¡­¡± Arios starred down at the steps. Beneath the cobblestone he could hear a faint sound. The soft scratching of a thousand tiny beings clawing through the rock. What lay beneath them? Scratch¡­scratch¡­ ¡°Arios, can you walk?¡± He looked up at Erykos. Then nodded struggling to his feet. Behind them the last of the suns light disappeared beyond the horizon and the Kyrithon began their song. They ran through the Upper Ward towards home. As they climbed higher the smoke grew weaker and the singing louder. All other sounds fell away until it was just the singing and the rain. But Arios could still hear the scratching. It dug itself into his mind burying so deep he could no longer tell if it came from beneath his feet or from inside his head. Was there something inside him trying to carve its way out? The singing died as they turned the corner onto their street. Father stood outside their gates. He spoke with a soldier frantically. A captain by his dress but it was not Darios. Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. ¡°Father!¡± Shouted Ilaria. He looked up, eyes wide, and broke out into a run towards them. ¡°My children!¡± He cried, lifting Ilaria up and pulling Arios close. ¡°They told me you went to the Market Hall.¡± There were tears in his eyes. ¡°I thought¡­¡± ¡°Do not worry Father, we are well!¡± Ilaria¡¯s eyes sparkled and she smiled wide. She looked so much younger than she had just moments ago. ¡°And you Arios?¡± ¡°I am¡­alright.¡± ¡°Father he was so brave! The crowd swept him away and I thought he was lost. But they could not bring him down!¡± She sounded like the Ilaria he knew. Bright, cheerful, an optimist girl that could bring a smile to anyone¡¯s face. And yet¡­ he did not recognize her. Father laughed a great, deep, rolling boom, like thunder, ¡°Your brother is a strong one is he not?¡± Then he turned to Erykos, ¡°Thank you. For bringing back my children.¡± ¡°It was a stroke of luck that we happened upon each other. I was in the Low Ward when the fires started. I was separated from my men in the smoke and ash. I wandered blindly and eventually stumbled into them on the steps of the Market Hall.¡± He paused. ¡°Daidal, there were many builders in the Low Ward today. We must send out search parties, we will be crippled if too many are lost.¡± The relief disappeared from Father¡¯s eyes. ¡°I am headed to a council meeting, you will come with me Erykos, we will organize it from there.¡± ¡°Father? Should I¡ª¡± ¡°No Arios, stay with your sister. Do not leave our home. There will be soldiers posted outside the gate for your protection. Do not leave.¡± ¡°Father¡ª¡± ¡°I must go now. Take care of each other.¡± He smiled at them but the worry in his eyes betrayed its warmth. Arios watched as Father and Erykos rushed down the street and disappeared around a corner. The captain nodded towards Arios, holding open the gate and gesturing them inside. Inside they were silent for some time. Ilaria prepared food and he gathered the plateware, placing it around the table. When she had finished, they sat together, eating. ¡°Ari, are you truly well?¡± Ilaria looked into his eyes. ¡°I had thought myself so strong. When we saw the first corpse¡± ¡ª Ilaria shuddered ¡ª ¡°I was filled with anger. The Kyrithon had killed one of our own, desecrating his body. I wanted, needed to do something. To take action against them. There was no time to be distraught. But these were our people Ilaria, turning on each other¡­ What can I do against such madness?¡± Ilaria was silent. Outside, he heard the shouts of soldiers calling at the gates of nearby homes. They were searching. For the instigators of today¡¯s atrocities. There were no calls outside their gate. ¡°Ari, it is the Kyrithon that are turning us against each other. Do not lose faith in Kenosia.¡± ¡°They have barely lifted a finger and already we are at each other¡¯s throats.¡± ¡°It is the song,¡± Ilaria whispered. ¡°There is a magic in it, they are praying to Arram and something is answering them.¡± Scratch¡­scratch¡­ ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous Ilaria. You have read to many of those stories. Arram is no god. There is no magic they could use¡­You are just like¡­¡± he could not say it. ¡°Ari, have you¡­Ari do you remember our mother?¡± ¡°A little¡­¡± He knew about her, Father had told him so much, but had only one memory. ¡°I cannot see her face anymore,¡± there was a pain in her voice, a deep longing. ¡°You were just a babe when she died.¡± She looked at him, eyes wild, ¡°Ari¡­ she is not dead.¡± There it was. Father¡¯s great error. He had wanted to protect them from the pain. So, he had told them a story. Of the old people of this land. How their mother had been one of them. How they had needed her back so they took her away. Back to the mountain, back to the great lake. But the truth was far simpler. ¡°Oh Ilaria¡­¡± He pulled her close, gripping her tightly in his arms. He saw his mother in the river. Cold, still. The Glintclaw pulling at her robes, tearing at her flesh. It was all he ever saw. Scratch¡­scratch¡­ ¡°Ilaria, do you hear that sound?¡± She looked up at him, ¡°What sound?¡± ¡°The scratching?¡± ¡°I am sorry Ari; I hear nothing but the rain.¡± But he could see she was lying. Scratch¡­scratch¡­ Chapter 18 Chapter 18 Sleep did not come easy for Arios. He lay in bed starring out at the rain. Kenosia had been under siege for less than a month and already it was coming apart at the seams. Did the Kyrithon truly wield this type of power? Ilaria believed so but she had always been enamored by the supernatural. But try as he might to dismiss it, there was certainly something to it. Something terrifying. The way their voices carried on the wind, how their words crept into your mind, hiding in its shadows and latching on to your very thoughts. And the dreams, or rather nightmares. They haunted his sleep. Each night new horrors awaited and yet there was more to them. They felt prophetic, like messages guiding his way. What had the assassin, Syretha, said to him? It was something about his dreams but the poison she had slipped him had dulled his mind and as time passed, he found he could scarcely remember her words at all. He thought again of yesterday¡¯s fighting. He had been so afraid. Trapped in the surging mob, a raging mass closing in from all angles. He had given up hope, sure that he was to be trampled beneath their feet. But Ilaria had saved him. Gripped him tight and pulled him from the throng. She had been so calm, so prepared. It was as if she had known what was going to occur. Could she have? He lay in bed restless, pondering. What did all this mean? How was Kenosia meant to survive this? Why had the King not come for them? He thought for hours, until first light when the Kyrithon song broke the dawn, until finally Father returned home. He found Father drooped over the low table empty goblet on the floor. He looked up as Arios entered the room. His face was spent. Eyes weary, clothes wet with rain. ¡°Arios? Come sit with me.¡± His voice was hoarse, faint, gone to a whisper. ¡°Father, you need rest. Let me take you to your bed.¡± ¡°Soon Arios, soon. But first, sit with me.¡± He gestured to the seat beside and retrieving his goblet poured wine for them both. He took the seat. ¡°What is it, Father?¡± ¡°The city has lost much this night. All our provisions in the Low Ward have been burnt to ash. Lord Argyros does not have a number as of yet but it looks to be at least half of the cities stock.¡± ¡°Oh Father!¡± It was an unthinkable amount lost but Kenosia¡¯s resources were vast, ¡°It will be alright, won¡¯t it? All know of our city¡¯s great stores.¡± Father sighed and his face grew dark, ¡°That remains to be seen Arios. There has been talk amongst the city¡¯s nobles of a strict ration for the lower wards. They seem to believe that since it was the Low Ward that was struck that they should bear the brunt of its consequences¡­¡± Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. ¡°But Father¡ª¡± ¡°I know Arios, where do you think I have been all night? Lord Kalydor has overruled them for now but if they gain any more support who knows for how long he will be able to do so. And that is not all. Because of yesterday¡¯s violence they are closing all the markets in the city.¡± Arios gasped. ¡°But¡­how will we eat?¡± ¡°They will have soldiers bring rations once a week.¡± He spoke quickly, anxiously, as if afraid that any moment he might be prevented from finishing his words. ¡°They will start in the Upper Ward. By the time the people in the Low Ward see any food it will be little more than scraps.¡± ¡°Lord Kalydor would never allow this!¡± Father must be mistaken, Lord Kalydor always spoke of his duty towards Kenosia¡¯s people. ¡°Indeed, he would not,¡± The words were slow, pained, ¡°But Lord Kalydor is only a Steward, he holds exactly the power that the rest of Kenosia¡¯s nobles allow him to wield. No more.¡± His eyes darted towards the window overlooking the courtyard, but saw nothing but the rain. ¡°Listen to me Arios, our city¡¯s keepers did not seriously entertain the Kyrithon threat. Yesterday has changed all of that. They now fear the possibility of an uprising. They are not handling this fear admirably.¡± ¡°But they are playing right in to the Kyrithon¡¯s hands!¡± It was obvious, even to him, why were they being so foolish? ¡°As I said, they are not handling it well. They fear that allowing the people to congregate will lead to more violence. For the time being they are willing to sacrifice our wellbeing if it keeps us from voicing our grievances as one.¡± ¡°This is what the Kyrithon said would happen!¡± They couldn¡¯t be right. Not about his city, not about Kenosia. It was almost too much to bear. They were the savages, the heretics. ¡°I know¡­¡± His father looked defeated, ¡°But you cannot give up Arios, Lord Kalydor is a good man. He continues to fight for his people. And when Lord Pyragos awakens, he will set things right. He is Lord Kalydor¡¯s greatest ally.¡± Arios¡¯s stomach turned into knots. He had scarcely thought of Pyragos, grievously wounded while rescuing him. And now the whole city would suffer at the hand of his failures. The cowardly nobles wouldn¡¯t dare such a scheme if he was well. ¡°Is he like to wake?¡± ¡°The healers say it is not a question of if but when.¡± ¡ª his father drank deeply ¡ª ¡°We must pray that is soon.¡± Relief. He would be well, he must be. ¡°What of the King, Father? Surely, he must be fast approaching?¡± ¡°We have received no word¡­¡± The words cut like a knife. ¡°It has been weeks. He would not abandon us, would he?¡± ¡°Kenosia is the gate to the crownlands. We are too important to be left to fend for ourselves. The Kyrithon are likely doing all they can to stop any of King Thalorian¡¯s messengers from breaking through their lines and reaching the city. They want us to feel alone.¡± Father took one last gulp of his wine and then stood. ¡°I must rest. I will soon be needed in the Low Ward.¡± He paused, ¡°Our conversation has been bleak but do not be dismayed. There are still many in the city who will fight for her. We are not broken. The people of Kenosia will rise to meet this adversity.¡± He took Arios into a warm embrace, ¡°I love you, my son. Tell your sister that no one is to leave our home without me. It will be too dangerous for now.¡± Then he disappeared down the hall to his bed, leaving Arios alone, hopeless, listening to the pounding rain. Chapter 19 Chapter 19 The week passed slow. On the third day soldiers brought rations to their home. Grain for bread, fruit and lentils, olive oil, there was even some salted fish. It was less than what they might have purchased for themselves but it was all there. Ilaria was pleased enough when it had arrived and had set about planning for their next meals. Father on the other hand had been quite distraught. Rain water would do well enough for most things but some thirst only wine could quench. It had been oddly comforting to see him so disappointed. If missing his daily bottle was of such concern then surely things could not be as dire as they seemed. But Father was still hard at work. There was much to do in repairing the Low Ward. Thankfully the fires had missed the Stacks but the damage was still severe. He left every morning before sun up and returned home long after dark. Ilaria had taken to napping in the late afternoon so she could be awake to prepare dinner for him. It was important to her that they all eat together. It was the one time they had to share. According to Father¡¯s commands Arios had spent the week indoors. There was not much to do at home and so he had begun following Ilaria¡¯s schedule. He wished Darios would come. Father said he was well but too busy to train. On the tenth day of the lockdown Father came home before sundown. Arios sat at the low table with him while Ilaria frantically set the seats. ¡°You should have told me when you left this morning that you would be back so early!¡± She sounded cross but her face shone with joy. She was too excited to see the look on Father¡¯s face. He sat, silent, starring disgustedly into his cup. It was wine mixed with water. About half and half. He had always said it was sin to dilute a good wine but here he was drinking it all the same. It must have been torturous. Ilaria returned with the last of the plates and took the seat beside Father. It was only then that she saw his face. ¡°The soldiers did not come today. I thought they would but¡­perhaps tomorrow. There is still some salted fish¡± ¡ªshe held the plate out to him¡ª ¡°I know it¡¯s your favorite.¡± Father¡¯s face softened. ¡°Thank you, child, there is plenty to share.¡± He smiled at her and began to divvy up the fish. The smile was all his sister needed and she began to speak excitedly, ¡°Have you ever eaten a Glintclaw, Father? I know it is not done usually, but with the food shortage and there being so many of them, I thought, why wouldn¡¯t we eat them?¡± Father nodded thoughtfully, ¡°I have heard that in the north they do eat Glintclaw, they are known by another name up there. And they do eat them occasionally in the Stacks. I met a merchant once who said they taste quite different down here although he was sure they were the same creatures. Something about ocean waters¡­¡± This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. ¡°Then they are sea creatures?¡± ¡°So it would seem.¡± Father turned towards him, brow raised, ¡°Though I have not seen them myself, that is what the merchant claimed.¡± ¡°Why are they here?¡± It was something that had bothered Arios of late. ¡°They say the source of the Kallidra is a great mountain by the sea. Mount Thalmyris. Perhaps the Glintclaw are from there and were washed down the river in a storm.¡± ¡°Why do they keep coming here? ¡°There must be something about Kenosia that reminds them of the ocean, of their former home.¡± ¡°But what?¡± ¡°Arios, I don¡¯t know,¡± snapped Father. ¡°I cannot explain everything to you!¡± Arios fell silent. He could see the stress on his father¡¯s face, knew he did not mean his words to sound so hard. But it hurt to hear it all the same. ¡°Arios¡­I am sorry. It has been¡­ a trying day. Do not think ill of me¡± Father sat eyes pleading, nails dug into the flesh of his arms. ¡°Father I would never. We both¡± ¡ª Ilaria nodded vigorously ¡ª ¡°see how hard you work, your dedication to Kenosia, to our family but you worry too much. It is like you said, all will be well. We still have much to be grateful for.¡± He gestured to the meal before them. ¡°Arios,¡± Father¡¯s voice was quiet, somber, ¡°All is not well. Though we are not wealthy and are no lords, we live the Middle Ward and I sit on the Council with the Steward of our city. We will not go without. For the people in the Low Ward things are much different. Many go hungry.¡± Arios starred at his father in shock, ¡°Father you said Lord Kalydor would not allow such measures.¡± ¡°And that is still his command but in practice it is much worse than I feared. The distribution is overseen by common soldiers. Soldiers who can easily be bought with enough coin. Coin that the citizens of the Low Ward do not have. The soldiers have many stops before they reach the city¡¯s outskirts and by the time they arrive there, their carts are empty and their pockets full.¡± ¡°But surely Lord Kalydor¡ª¡± ¡°Kalydor is just a man!¡± Father¡¯s voice had risen to a shout, ¡°He cannot be everywhere, he must put his faith in other men and these men are failing him. They are failing Kenosia!¡± ¡°Perhaps we could help?¡± interrupted Ilaria, ¡°As you said, you are on the Council, if you sent Arios and me with the soldiers, they may be more inclined to follow their orders knowing we could report them directly to a Council Member.¡± ¡°Ilaria, neither you nor your brother are to set foot in the Low Ward!¡± Father never shouted when he was angry but his voice had reached a fevered pitch. ¡°The riots there grow worse every day. Anyone even thought to be involved is taken in. They hung nineteen men today.¡± His voice died and his face fell into his hands, ¡°Three of them were just boys, younger than you Ilaria, they are starving,¡± it was barely a whisper. Ilaria threw herself at Father wrapping her arms around him as he sobbed. ¡°When Lord Pyragos awakens, he will set this right?¡± He had meant it to be comforting but it had sounded more like a question. Arios needed this reassurance. ¡°They have moved him somewhere. The healers assure us that he will wake but none have seen him for days. I fear he has died¡­¡± That couldn¡¯t be. He was going to wake. Any day now that¡¯s what they said. Arios felt a sharp pain in his stomach. He jumped to his feet. ¡°Arios, are you well?¡± ¡°I just need some air,¡± he mumbled as he lurched out of the room. All will be well. All will be well. The pain in his stomach was growing stronger. Arios felt it radiate from his belly out towards his entire being. He needed to rest. To lie down. He couldn¡¯t think clearly in these conditions. Everything would make more sense in the morning. Perhaps Pyragos would be awake by then. For now, he needed to sleep. Arios stumbled down the hall head spinning. He barely made it to his room; collapsing onto his bed. The last thing he thought of was the Glintclaw. Of a great ocean and a coming wave. He slipped into fitful dreams and knew no more. Chapter 20 Chapter 20 The following week the soldiers brought less food. Nothing was missing from their rations just smaller portions of everything. Ilaria decided they would move to two meals per day to accommodate. Father barely noticed. He spent almost no time at home now. They had stopped sharing meals, as Ilaria was always sleeping by the time he returned home. He was a somber man now, speaking little, and eating less. Upon returning home late at night he would drink his ration of wine in silence and then quickly retreat to his quarters for sleep. He was unwilling to share any more of the happenings in the Low Ward and curious as he was Arios was still hesitant to press him on it. Ilaria spent her days locked away, only appearing to prepare and eat her meals. She slept for long hours and while awake was consumed by her writing. Arios knew not of what she wrote but any time she was not abed he could hear the furious scratching of her quill. For Arios the hours passed slow but the days flew. He allotted the periods of lightest rain for training, drilling all the movements Darios had taught him. But without Darios to teach and Ilaria to work with, little improvement could be made. At all other times, he busied himself with books. There were few in the household save for Father¡¯s collection ¡ªmainly books on building techniques, histories as well as some city plans. The plans were of particular interest to Arios. They detailed much of his father¡¯s work, in particular his restoration of the river wall. He poured over these for hours, he needed to learn this work. His father was so valued by the council and most importantly by Lord Kalydor because he was the only one with this knowledge. He was allowed to move freely and take charge of the city¡¯s defenses for this reason. There was so still much he did not understand. Father¡¯s sketches were confusing and the words scribbled upon them may as well have been in another tongue. There were surprisingly, a large number of references to the Glintclaw as well as mentions of a mineral known as halite. It seemed there were many deposits of this mineral around the city and it had made repairing the river wall a very unique challenge. Arios was not sure what halite was but Father had been determined to keep it from getting wet. Each day became more like the last as they began to blur into each other. On the third ration day, the soldiers brought no fish. ¡°How is possible that the city¡¯s stores are diminished so quickly?¡± ¡°Well¡­ Father said half the stores were lost in the fire.¡± Arios stared across the low table at Ilaria confused. ¡°Kenosia¡¯s stores were supposed to last for years.¡± ¡°Well, yes¡­¡± he shifted uncomfortably in his seat. ¡°Perhaps they lost more than Father thought.¡± ¡°Or, they are keeping it from us. ¡°I do not believe Father would help them if they were to do such a thing.¡± ¡°We know they are doing it in the Low Ward, yet Father still works with them. He has no other choice.¡± Ilaria was eating at a hurried pace, shoveling the lentils into her mouth. ¡°Even if you are right, what can we do?¡± If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°I don¡¯t know! But someone needs to do something!¡± Ilaria glared at him waiting for an answer but Arios had none. What could they do? What could anyone do? They finished eating in silence. When she had finished Ilaria stomped out of the room disappearing down the hall. Arios sat, alone, pondering over his sister¡¯s words. They had been trapped at home for weeks. He had no way of determining how dire their circumstances were. Was the situation in the Low Ward truly as awful as Father had described? And even that had been days ago, what was it like now? Had things improved? Perhaps that was why their rations had been so affected. He could not come up with a solution without first uncovering all the missing details. He had stayed too long inside. Tonight, he would visit the Low Ward. Consequences be damned, he needed to see things for himself. He waited at the low table until well past midnight. Finally, he heard the courtyard gate creak open as Father returned home. As he walked through the garden Arios quietly rose slipping out into the hall. He would wait another hour in his room. Until Father slept. Arios passed Ilaria¡¯s chamber on the way to his own. He could see no candlelight coming from underneath her door. This was good, she was already in bed. She would have wanted to join him if she knew. It would be better to tell her tomorrow when there was news to tell. He prayed he would find something, for her sake. He sat in his bed, darkness all around. Listening for his father through the pounding of the rain. After a short while, he heard him stumbling down the hallway. It would be safe to leave soon. He sat a while longer just to be certain. Then grabbing his cloak, he made his way out into the night. The rain came down in sheets. Spending any time in this deluge would render his cloak useless and soak him to the bone. There were porticos on the busier roads but the heavy rains provided a more important kind of cover. It kept the back streets empty. The Middle Ward had been peaceful since the first day. There was little reason for patrols and even less in this weather. No soldier wanted his fine plate tarnished by the rain. Still, Arios walked quickly. He could see scarcely twenty steps ahead. The rain showered the city in a wash of dark paint. Its pounding drowning out even his own footsteps. It was hard to imagine anyone else being foolish enough to venture outside but ahead of him the downpour there was a shape. A shadow. It was impossible to tell what it was. Was it moving towards him? Away from him? Was it even moving at all? Fear gripped him. No Kenosian would be out in this storm. Was it some sort of beast? A Kyrithon assassin? The shadow began to fade. It was moving away from him. He steeled himself, mustering all of his courage. Whatever the shape was perhaps it would lead him to answers. He followed the shadow, pacing himself so that it would neither fade nor grow. They walked a long way. Passed the Market, passed the Barracks but not down into the Low Ward. The shadow stuck to the backstreets. Whatever it was, it wanted to avoid any area that might have soldiers. Eventually, they came to a district that Arios did not recognize. All he could see were rows of enormous buildings. Storehouses. Abruptly the shadow disappeared! It must have turned a corner! Arios began to run; he could not let it escape. His feet pounded on the pavement but suddenly they could find no footing. He was falling, crashing to the cobblestone, and splashing to a stop. He let out a pained grunt. What had happened? He peered behind him and caught the glimmer of bronze in the moonlight. There was at least one soldier here but he lay in the road face down. The man was dead. Stabbed through the neck. Arios scrambled to his feet a panic setting in. These storehouses held the rations for the entire Middle Ward. The Kyrithon had returned to burn more of their stores! He needed to find them and then raise the alarm! He galloped forward! But as he came upon the corner, he heard voices ahead. He slammed to a halt stopping just before the turn and peered carefully around it. Standing under a portico was a group of at least a dozen dark shapes. They were whispering animatedly and seemed to be arguing. ¡°I said no killing,¡± hissed a voice. ¡°The soldiers are not the ones responsible for this! They are victims just as much as we are!¡± It was a strange thing for them to argue over but Arios had no time. He needed to find a patrol and sound the alarm. He needed to¡ª ¡ªSomething grabbed his shoulder and he felt the sharp cold sting of steel press into his back! ¡°Do not move,¡± commanded an unknown whisper. Chapter 21 Chapter 21 Arios stood, rooted to the stone. Rivulets of cold rain ran down his person, pooling in his boots, freezing him in place. The steel pressing into his back shifted tearing at his skin, and a thin stream of blood joined the falling cascade. The grip on his shoulder was ironclad, a vice-like clasp that bruised his flesh. There would be no escape from this man. ¡°Go on then,¡± the words tumbled from his lips, ¡°make it quick.¡± It had not sounded as heroic as he imagined it would. The words squeaked out in a high-pitched whine, betraying the fear in his heart. ¡°Arios?¡± The hand pulled on him, spinning Arios around to face his captor. ¡°Darios!?¡± It was the captain. He was not in uniform and his face was covered in a grizzled beard but there could be no mistaking those eyes. Relief washed over him and his legs buckled, gasping he tumbled forward. Darios jumped catching his fall¡ªconcern etched on his brow. ¡°What are you doing here!?¡± He whispered urgently, ¡°What did you see?¡± Arios stared up at him. There was a wildness to his look. His hair was a tangled mess matted and slick. His eyes darted nervously, seeking out an unseen peril. And he gripped a short sword in his right hand still stained red with Arios¡¯s own blood. But that was not all. He was covered in blood, on his head and hands. Little specks of it sprayed across his face. Arios had not bled nearly that much. This was the blood of many men, Darios had been fighting. ¡°Darios are you well?¡± ¡°Tell me!¡± Darios grabbed him by the cloak, pulling him up. ¡°What have you seen?¡± ¡°I-I-I was following a man! He led me here to a group! They must be Kyrithon, here to destroy more storehouses! Darios did you see them; have you been fighting? I saw bodies¡­¡± The bloodlust faded from the captain¡¯s eyes, ¡°Arios, forgive me¡­in the heat of battle¡­sometimes¡­Where are the Kyrithon?¡± ¡°They were on the street over. Just around the bend. Should we call for help?¡± Darios peered around the corner, ¡°I do not see them.¡± He was right, the streets were empty. Arios pointed to the nearest storehouse, ¡°They were under that awning, they must have gone inside.¡± ¡°There is no time,¡± muttered Darios. He took the shield off his back, ¡°Take these.¡± He handed Arios the shield and bloodied sword, pulling another blade from his cloak for himself. ¡°We will take them together. Do you remember your training?¡± If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°I do¡± ¡°Then prepare yourself.¡± Darios crept forward in the shadow of the portico, Arios at his back. They made their way through the rain and to the first storehouse. ¡°Are you sure it was here?¡± ¡°Yes, they were gathered around this door.¡± ¡°Stay behind me.¡± Darios placed his hand carefully on the latch and slowly slid the door open. The hall was dark but between shelves of grain and lentil, Arios could see the flicker of candlelight. The Kyrithon were here. He looked to Darios. The captain grabbed his arm and quickly pulled him down a row with no light. ¡°We must find their leader.¡± ¡°But how? It is too dark to see.¡± ¡°We will take them one candle at a time.¡± A shiver ran up his spine. There had been at least a dozen men. Did Darios expect to defeat all of them with only Arios by his side? They crawled along the shelf, following the candle on the row over. Ahead of them was a break in the shelves and when the candle passed Darios slipped behind it. In the light, Arios saw two men. They walked down the row, great sacks held over their shoulders. They were filling them with all the rations they could carry. As they slowed to take on more Darios came up behind them. He slit the first man¡¯s throat. He let out a gurgling wheeze as he fell, choking on his blood. The second man turned eyes wide with shock. He meant to scream, to call out to his companions but Darios was too fast. He caught the man¡¯s neck in a stranglehold and the scream died there, lost in his last breaths. The man died with a whimper. When he was done, he turned to Arios, ¡°That was too close. You will need to take one next time.¡± Arios nodded but his knees were weak. He couldn¡¯t fail Darios, not now. They extinguished the candle and moved on. Deeper in they saw another light. Two more men. Two more sacks of rations. Something was not right. ¡°You there!¡± Arios jumped! The voice came from behind them. He whipped around in time to see Darios rushing towards another two men. He cut through the first man before he had even drawn his sword. One piercing scream echoed down the rows. The second man brought his sword up just in time to deflect the blade off his hilt but at that moment Arios rammed into his legs, upending him and sending him clattering to the floor. The man had no chance to parry the captain¡¯s second strike. ¡°Well done!¡± Shouts came from all around them now. Men approached them from both sides. They were surrounded! But to Darios this was nothing. He danced through the flickering flames. Weaving through jabs, parrying wild swings. He held his blade in one hand, using the other to maneuver Arios away from any danger. The assailants stood no chance. Their numbers were useless in such narrow walkways. Darios was too quick for them, his steel sang, three ringing notes followed by three loud thuds as men hit the floor, triumphant drums to complete the song. The final man ran and Darios taken by the frenzy pursued him. Arios was alone now. Toppled candles lit his surroundings. He could hear the terrified screams as Darios ran down his prey. If these were the Kyrithon¡¯s best then Kenosia was in no real danger. They had not seemed like soldiers, perhaps their spies were not fighters. The screams faded and Arios began to hear the sound of movement. Was Darios already returning? ¡°You there, boy?¡± Across from him, down the walkway appeared four figures. ¡°Stay back,¡± he cried! ¡°See your men slain around me! Do not test me as they did!¡± ¡°We should kill him!¡± ¡°No, the boy is innocent.¡± The figure directed his words to Arios, ¡°Though it grieves me to see so many of our friends fallen before you, we have no wish to fight. You are not our enemy.¡± He turned back to his companions, ¡°We must leave before the other returns.¡± They disappeared one by one into the darkness. ¡°Arios! Don¡¯t let them escape!¡± The last shadow stopped. It looked back at him, ¡°Arios?¡± Then it shook its head and ran.