Balance of Death Page 3

  Jerek confused, given the state of Daeva’s headquarters and lack of any enemy bodies takes a moment to process his insouciant tone. Quickly realizing too much time has passed, and he hasn’t responded to his superior. “I … uh.. was able to get Tiaan and Aisus. Plus, around five dozen men from Caprio and Vezio’s syndicate.” Jerek hastily replies.

  Daeva was pleased with the donation from his syndicates. Each Radian rules over a territory for the circle of Śmierć. They oversee various criminal organizations referred to as syndicates. The syndicate leaders are not directly a part of the circle, but are persuaded through the circle’s force and connections to obey. However, Daeva wonders what Jerek must have said to get the syndicates to produce so many men.

  Daeva’s thoughts are interrupted as the door at the top of the stairs opens. A thing only Daeva takes note of with his enhanced vampiric senses. His mood seems to shift to a more serious note. “Ensure the men are ready and have them placed discreetly throughout the villa.” Daeva stands and instructs, shooing Jerek away.

  Asta enters the hall from the doorway by the throne. She continues to the throne placing her index finger on it. She dilatorily examines the throne and looks towards Daeva; “You don’t seem particularly frightened.” Asta says almost as if she is thinking out loud.

  “Should I be?” Daeva equivocates as he smiles- showing his teeth.

  Asta pleased by his obedient yet bold reply plops down on the throne. One leg up on the arm her lack of clothing nearly exposing herself; “no.”She pauses looking upward; “I should think not. Rather you should be jubilant.” Asta says pleased with herself. She smiles and returns her gaze to Daeva. Asta is gratified at the opportunity to so quickly, and in her preferred fashion, seize control of the circle of Śmierć. At the same time her mind is preoccupied racing through the possible outcomes of various schemes to secure control of the circle without losing too many radians or syndicates.

  Daeva senses her almost welcoming demeanor; “Well as much as I did want to re-do that atrium area I don’t think I understand how I should be grateful.” Daeva presses

  Asta laughs under her breath; “Treggin has shared with me his plans to have you take his role of Kentro, while he pursues business in another realm.” she replies. Asta says preoccupied plotting the next couple weeks and trying to foresee any difficulties. She gives little thought to the effect her words will have on Daeva.

  Daeva takes a moment to understand the implications of such an offer. He surmises that she must have killed Treggin and now seeks his position as Kentro.

  Daeva doesn’t want an all-out fight here on Asta’s terms, so he is willing to play along. “Well even if I was interested in taking the position-under your guidance I assume. I’m not so confident I could get the other radians to fall in with such a proposition.” Daeva says echoing Asta’s concerns.

  Asta looks towards the doorway to the right of the throne; “Star!” She yells. Before looking back at Daeva. A moment of silence as they wait for Asta’s order to bear fruit. Daeva indulges the idea of becoming Kentro for a moment.

  He questions if this could be a reality. Could he get the other radians to recognize him as Kentro of the circle of Śmierć? The notion seems so foreign. Is it even COS without Treggin? Daeva knows he would be a better leader than Treggin. However, his thoughts are derailed by the realization that the radians would never accept what would be interpreted as a coup against Treggin. His only option then will be to fight with whatever enforcers arrive? It would likely still result in death. If Asta can dominate Treggin so entirely what hope could this small clutch of men have against her and her death dealers? Undoubtedly, her death dealers are also on their way or already here. Perhaps, with more enforcers he could hope to overcome her, but he would have to leave this room with his life. His thoughts were interrupted by the astonishment of Treggin walking through the doorway with Star behind him.

  Treggin’s behavior is calm, almost obedient, but his being betrays anger. Treggin snaps with great force; the unnaturally loud sound reverberates throughout the room. “Get the comm room setup!” Treggin commands.

  Daeva unable to fully resolve the events laid out before him. “Yes, Kentro.” Daeva almost subconsciously replies as he moves to set up the communication room.

  Daeva turns towards the main doorway at the other end of the room. All three follow him out. As they enter the plaza a significant group of men have gathered.

  Daeva’s enforcers Tiaan and Aisus walk towards the three. Tiaan has a Boem leather cape covering many blades holstered around his body. Aisus with more formal attire, wearing a suit and a hand cannon. Hand cannons are alchemic devices that slip over the hand with a grip on the inside. Once you squeeze the inner grip it tightens around your hand, and small crystalline structures penetrate the skin pulling chakra. When they build up enough it releases at the tip of the cannon. These weapons are commonly used by those who aren’t skilled in any other form of fighting. They are quite powerful; but require skill to use efficiently.

  The enforcers kneel before Treggin and Daeva, expecting new orders. Treggin set to purpose walks past the enforcers with no regard.

  Once they arrive in the communication room Jerek instinctively begins getting crystals from a display case and places them in holders in front of two chairs at either end of the table. Then looks to Daeva; “how many shall I set up?” Jerek asks.

  Daeva looks towards Asta as he does; she tightens her lips, squints her eyes and shakes her head. Daeva promptly replies as to not give away this interaction; “Just myself and the Kentro, and I want you to send out an emergency signal from the Kentro’s presence”

  Treggin takes his seat and Jerek begins. Jerek raises his hands above the table. Both Daeva and Treggin grip the crystal in front of them. Jerek begins reciting something in a foreign tongue. As he continues his voice seems to unnaturally deepen. Jerek’s words invoke his conscious energy to move and cause the natural energy in the crystals to react; a common spell used in conjunction with special alchemic crystals to communicate with others over great distances.

  The crystals in their hands begin to glow; after a moment of reciting his words Jerek turns to Treggin; “lord Kentro may I.” Jerek says in his normal voice. Treggin staring blankly in the distance seems to snap back into the situation and nods his head.

  Jerek then recites more of the spell - his voice deepens again. He draws Treggin’s energy, and sends it into the crystal to facilitate the spell he orchestrated. Thin veins of crystal on the bottom of the table connect like rivers of a landscape. The veins glow as Treggin and Daeva both look up towards the ceiling, while light emits from their mouth and eyes.

  Jerek hastily exits the room. Pausing for a moment, expecting the women to follow him, before exiting.

  Treggin and Daeva are metaphysically transported to a white abyss; as far as one can see in all directions. The only thing in sight is a table with Treggin and Daeva on the ends. The same table now filled with the fourteen other Radians. Asta and Star remain back in the original room. Where only Treggin and Daeva’s physical form sit their heads facing up and light still shining from their mouth and eyes.

  In the white Abyss one of the Radians on the side of the table speaks up; “lord Kentro what is the meaning of this emergency communication?”

  “I have pressing business calling me in a foreign realm, and I will need Daeva to assume the role of Kentro in my absence.” Treggin says without acknowledging the radian who posed the question. His delivery somewhat conflicted. Handing over the title, even temporarily, pains him. However, he wouldn’t dream of disregarding an order from Drekavak. He made him in more ways than one. Drekavak bestowed the gift of immortality upon him, and sculpted the man Treggin is today from the clay of his youth.

  After a brief silence “Lord Kentro I don’t understand is...” One of the Radians inquires.

  Treggin interrupts him and slams his fist on the table. “Just do as you're told!” Treggin takes a moment to recompose himsel
f then continues; “The ceremony inducting Daeva will happen in four nights. If you have any further questions you can address them to Daeva.” A command with little explanation is familiar, but the notion of Treggin handing the title of Kentro over -even temporarily- is almost inexplicable. Treggin stands causing all the light to violently implode inward. Revealing the original surroundings of the room. As it does, the other men around the table disappear to the center with the light.

  Treggin exits deep in thought. Asta’s immense power, and her knowledge of Drekavak substantiates her story. Any lingering doubts Treggin has are quelled by the overwhelming reverence Treggin feels for Drekavak. He would give up much and go far to see his maker again.

  Asta commands; “You two wait here.” Then follows Treggin out of the room.

  Chapter 3

  Back in Thoraza. Across the enormous sprawling city there are raised plateaus. Atop one of the more prominent plateaus is a large square building with a glass dome center surrounded by stone and steel looking material. Each corner has a towering section that rises above the dome. The top of the structure is patrolled by guards, and has chakra cannons at key points.

  The chakra cannons look like large glass and steel shields with a crystal gripped by a cylindrical cannon device on the front. The shield itself rotates to allow full range of view. On the opposite side of the cannon there are two ports for the guard’s arms. Reaching into the ports grabbing a rod inside that has veins of crystal molded into it. Those rods will automatically pull chakra from the body of trained guards: weaponizing it for use. Unlike hand cannons. A regular being doesn’t have enough chakra to sustain its fire, so it has a reserve of chakra to pull from.

  Ruvaen stands at the foyer greeting lords as they enter. A Regent greeting lords sets a tone of importance as a Regent wouldn’t generally offer such to a lord. The foyer is a large arched hallway leading into the main dome room at the center. The lords are all dressed formally. Ruvaen’s traditional suit and vest complementing the tone. Just outside the foyer the guests arrive. They are riding large carriage looking vehicles hovering just above the ground with a large crystal at the bottom supporting its glide. The carriages pull up unloading lords then promptly driving off.

  An impressively large carriage pulls up with an escort of soldiers accompanying it. The soldiers are riding on large oval shaped boards that come to a point at either end. A crystal, similar to the ones at the bottom of the carriages, supporting their movement. They glide through the air standing atop these boards. As the large carriage pulls up it turns and moves sideways with its door facing the entrance to the building. The light from the crystal’s dim as the carriages slowly lower to the ground. The soldiers maneuver their boards in a line on either side making a pathway between the carriage door and the entrance to the building. They lower their boards slightly as well and take a knee gripping the edge of their boards. These soldiers are not average guardsmen; these are members of the Mystico Black Ops. They wear specialized leather armor made from the hide of a Biston from the realm of Helvete; this hide is near impenetrable, and very expensive. They have distinguished poise and discipline.

  Seven older men step out wearing highly crafted armor with gold and black diamond crests signifying their rank as Military Tribunal members. Military Tribunes command Amneka’s military might, and answer directly to the War Chief.

  As the Military Tribunes enter the building Ruvaen immediately recognizes them. “Gentleman I appreciate you making the trip.” Ruvaen greets them as he reaches out his hand.

  The first man accepts his greeting shaking his hand; “Of course, you wouldn’t have made the request if it wasn’t important.” The Tribune replies matter-of-factly.

  Ruvaen momentarily questions if the War Chief informed the Tribunes of the task the High Council assigned him, but quickly shrugs it off and continues greeting the rest of the men. Ruvaen knows the High Council’s focus is dealing with Cyrim-a realm bordering theirs. However, He will not let the connotation of unimportance limit him. Ruvaen sees much opportunity in the central lands, and if the High Council doesn’t they will soon learn from his success.

  Ruvaen also expects that his modest request of military force will surprise the Military Tribunal. A number that should be dwarfed by what one would expect when culminating the massive central lands of Prósdesi.

  After the Military Tribunes pass, Ruvaen takes notice of Azriel and seems anxious to greet him. Ruvaen say’s in serious tone; “My friend, I wasn’t sure if you were going to show up.” as he reaches out to shake his hand.

  “Yes well.. I would appreciate more notice in the future.” Azriel somewhat indignantly replies ignoring Ruvaen’s hand.

  Ruvaen replies with a smile; “I would as well old friend.” Upset by Azriel’s hostility but he understands it. Ruvaen is eager to spend the next couple of weeks sharing with Azriel the opportunities he can afford him in hopes of mending some of the damage done to their friendship. If nothing else this role the High Council has given him can aid in that.

  “I have no interest in your suspense. Explain yourself.” Azriel counters.

  Ruvaen, attentive to the rest of the guests already in the planning chambers, gestures towards the entrance to the chambers. “Please all will be made clear inside and trust me when I say this should sate your grievances from past actions. That I would remind you old friend were out of my control.”

  They continue to the chambers; a large circular room with tiered benches stepping down to the center. Where a table sits; atop it a terrain map boasting impressive detail and scale. Azriel makes his way to the bottom and stands near the front. Ruvaen walks down to the opposite side of the table facing the rest of his guests.

  The lords and magistrates are sitting on the tiered bench to his right, and the Military Tribunes stand to the left not seated yet. The robed representatives of the Amneka College sit in the center. Azriel sits just to the left of the robed men, enough to take notice of the distance, but not too much that his view is blocked by the Military Tribunal. Azriel is slouched backward, his posture is a clear rebellion to the formality of such a meeting.

  Ruvaen, whose authority is only rivaled by the zenith mage and the Military Tribunal; “Gentlemen allow me to orient you to the purpose of our gathering. I understand some of you have made quite the trek to find yourself here today. I assure you it will prove to be of great service to Amneka.” Ruvaen seizes their attention before pausing to assess the room. The lords sit up straight showing respect, and the Military Tribunes take a seat. Ruvaen continues; “As you all should know securing central Prósdesi has been a focus of the high council for some time now. There stands, of course many barriers, thus it was of our advantage to bide our time and prepare. Facilitating proper resources to support additional population, accords with the clans, building of strength, and so on…” Ruvaen takes a moment to plan his words; “Well gentlemen I stand before you today with the honor of beginning that venture. However, before we begin such an endeavor we must recognize like much of Amneka’s glory it is shared by many. Everyone in this room will play a key role in the unfolding of this and it will take precise coordination to ensure an efficient culmination of our central lands. So, I will have each of you introduce yourselves to assure our familiarity with one another. Starting with our honorable Military Tribunal.” Ruvaen extends his hand out towards them to initiate the introductions.

  One of the Tribunes stand; “I am Ihro Zamran of the military tribunal; I am accompanied by the honorable Ysthi Ette, Imli Vilna, and Grabe Lafoth. We stand the direct reports to the war chief. Together we ensure our military stands ready during times of peace, and eliminates Amneka’s enemies during times of war.” With authority and the connotation that they should know this. Even still, Amneka is a large country covering most of Prósdesi. The vastness can serve to alienate some from certain parts of the political process.

  Some lords of smaller or more rural kingdoms may not be as familiar with the politics of their country as they
should be. Given that most of the upper echelon politics take place in Thoraza it isn’t too surprising.

  “I am but a humble citizen of Amneka.” Azriel stands addressing the room. “I am responsible for the influx of much of the technology we use throughout. I run the Crux of Peleus, an organization dedicated to the advancement of human knowledge, and not the allocation of utility to it.” Azriel says with a look of disdain towards the grandmasters of the Amnekian College

  An old man stands up letting Azriel’s comments roll off of him. “I am the Zenith Mage of the Amnekian college. You may call me Megas Ion; sitting with me are some of the most influential masters in all of the Seven realms. They are Grand Master Mulac, Grand Master Zelotes, and Grandmaster Akhates. Between the three of them they run most of the colleges in the western half of Prósdesi. We are pleased to be with all of you.” Megas Ion says as he slightly bows his head and takes his seat.

  Some time passes as the larger group of lords and magistrates sits unsure as to what order they should proceed. Finally, a tall dark man stands; “Well I suppose I should get things started. I am K’awi Huracan I am the lord of Valgue in the region of Wrathbrook.”

  He is followed by another; “I am Theo Buata lord of Gaho region of Thoraza.”

  As he sits another proceeds; “I am Lucius Murena lord of Pelamos in the region of Thoraza.” he says glancing over to Ruvaen.

  Another man stands; “I am Yanwin Graves lord of Egux region of Phalyados.”

  The next man; “I stand Fua Zola the lord of the kingdom of Gire under the direction of the region of Thoraza.”

  The man beside him; “Pàl Baron here lord of Vathon region Thoraza.”

  Another man stands; “Slovil Loudain lord of Rhodio in the region of Thoraza.” After Slovil sits there is another pause as if the remaining unannounced men are unsure of how to proceed.