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The untimely demise of Emperor Daegan led to Crown Prince Daylon succeeding the throne at the young age of twelve. Taking advantage of newly crowned Emperor Daylon's political inexperience, the Commander of the Imperial Guards killed the Emperor and usurped the throne. Prompted by the murder of the legitimate Emperor, the Keeper of the Imperial Seal secretly called upon the regional warlords to aid in the overthrowing of the tyrant. The military coup succeeded with the deposition of the tyrant and the appointment of Prince Damian as the new puppet Emperor. The regional warlord Devon, who possessed the greatest military power, was appointed the Chancellor, wielding the entire power of the court. This invoked the wrath of the people, resulting in the resentment of the whole empire. As Devon wrecked havoc in the capital, the rest of the regional warlords decided to seize as much land and army as possible for themselves.

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In Aelinmiley, banners of House Sarton, Miranti, Stewart and Langlois were flown as each Governor made a display of their military might. It was the official ceremony where the Lords declare their membership in the Coalition against Chancellor Devon. As the Lords entered the castle gates, they assembled at the hall as Marquis Jeremy greeted each of them and led them to their seats.

When everyone settled down, Jeremy said “This is a day of great joy. I am grateful to all of you for joining this alliance and fulfilling your duty to the Empire. Our meeting today is a sign that the Empire shall be restored to its former glory. Our combined military might match those of traitor Devon and I am sure that if he knows we have gathered to campaign against him, he would have flown into a panic.”

The Lords laughed in agreement before Lord Douglas stood up, saying “With you, a great man of virtue and prestige, to be our leader, I am sure victory is assured.”

Marquis Jeremy smiled slightly and replied “You flatter me. In the Capital, traitor Devon destroys the court and slaughters the upright. He appoints a puppet Emperor and upsets the order of the realm. His power over Ifeland and the Royal Court relies solely on his army. All he does every day is to rape, kill and pillage. It has long been determined that he shall be punished by the Gods.”

Suddenly, a soldier barged into the hall, reporting that General Travis has led 15,000 Ifeland troops on Chancellor Devon’s orders to bring back the head of Marquis Jeremy and is yelling insults before the castle gates. However, General Travis had not issued the order to attack the castle.

Marquis Jeremy’s facial expression conveyed an impression of indifference on the matter as he said “This is only the first day of our alliance and Devon’s army has already come to challenge us. It is first battle between us and the traitor which is why it is necessary for General Travis to be killed. May I ask if any of your military officials is willing to engage in a single combat with Travis and take the top honours for the first victory of our alliance?"

Lord Douglas immediately reacted by saying “Bring in Colonel Emir. He is a promising warrior of mine and is fully capable of taking the head of General Travis.” 

A servant immediately rushed out of the hall and upon finding Emir, brought him before Marquis Jeremy and the Lords.

As I am announced I walk into the hall, confident in my abilities. Whatever need the lords have of me I will surely meet and exceed their demands. Arriving at the appropriate place to address the assembled lords, I bow at the waist, no easy task for an armed and armored man, and humbly request the reason for the summons. My armor had been polished the night before, and the light glinted off it's surface. My dagger-axe and bow are outside, naturally, though I was permitted to retain my mace. My face is clean shaven, my dark wavy hair pulled back in a tail, my olive skin an interesting contrast to the usual yellowish complexion of the lords and natives.Some hated me for my differences, I relished them. I would never be mistaken for anyone else in the empire. I already had a small following in the northern reaches of Narthwich, and most of Narthwich new of me by now, having won several regional competitions of skill and wit.

"You sent for me, my lords?"

Marquis Jeremy was unaware that the military official Lord Douglas offered had distinguished features. This man resembled the barbarians in the south but Jeremy knew better than to judge a book by its cover. If Lord Douglas could put his reputation at stake recommending this man, he should be a talented warrior.

Facing Emir, he said confidently "General Travis has led 15,000 Ifeland troops here to fight against us. This is the first challenge our alliance had ever faced which is why we will win. You have been offered by Lord Douglas to engage in a one-to-one duel with Travis and after you succeed, you shall be getting the top honors for the first victory of our alliance."

Asking a servant to pass a goblet half filled with top quality wine to Emir, he raised his goblet and spoke to everyone in the hall, "Let us toast to Colonel Emir's success."

As everyone drank their goblet of wine, Jeremy noticed that this man emitted an aura of confidence, seemingly sending the message that there was a guaranteed victor even before the fight itself. He said "The rules are simple. Both of you would start off horseback and none of your troops are to move during the match. Anything afterwards would be fair."

Ahh, so the rumors were true, Devon had sent a man to deal with the coalition. Travis had one eye, that limited his ability to perceive depth, but not his actual sight. He also favored the spear, a common enough weapon in the Empire, and something I knew how to deal with. His armor was Iron though, that could prove to be a source of frustration for me, as my own is merely bronze. He'll be able to shrug off poor hits better than me. I accept the preferred goblet, and raise it to my lips with the rest of the lords, thought I do not partake of the liquid. Alcohol numbs the senses, and only a brute could afford to drink before a fight, I am no brute. I returned the goblet, and bowed once more to lords, before turning and moving out to collect my weapons and then to engage my enemy.

Emir met the general on the fields before the city walls, sitting tall in his saddle, he waits for Travis a little beyond bow-shot from the walls as agreed. The general rode up on his horse, and stopped about two hundred paces away, carrying his spear in his right hand, holding the reigns in the left. Emir sat, holding his mace in his right hand, his left in the mane of his horse. His bow was slung across his back. At the signal, a horn blast from the enemy camp, Travis kicked his horse into a cantering charge. Emir smiled grimly and knees his horse into a similar canter, aiming to pass Travis, on the general's left side. as they closed, Emir kneed his horse to the left, so that it crossed Travis' path and would now be passing the general on his right side.  Travis hastily adjusts his spear aiming now for Emir's torso. Emir flips the Mace in his hand, and cocks his arm back, holing the mace so that it's head point's behind him, Travis's spear lands a glancing blow, and Emir's armor holds, deflecting the blade and most of the force. Emir snaps his arm forward, twisting at the waist to give the mace as much momentum as possible, and lands a glancing blow on Travis' Helmet, which falls to the dust, leaving a small gash in Travis' forehead.

The general manages to stay on his horse, with a great effort, and some flailing, though he doesn't drop his spear. Emir orders his horse to turn back, and in two quick paces, the horse is riding back toward the general at a trot this time. Travis regains his balance and wheels to face Emir, as Emir kicks his horse into a gallop, the two horses collide. Emir's crashing into the flank of Travis' sending it to the ground. Travis jumps free of the falling horse. and rises, spear at the ready. Emir snorts in contempt, and dismounts, approaching the general on foot. Travis lunges forward, stabbing at Emir, Emir twists lightly, stepping forward and swinging the mace with all his weight and speed. The spear again glances off the armor, but the mace finds it's mark, clanging against the general's pauldron denting it, and putting a permanent squeeze on the general's arm. Travis leaps back, gritting his teeth in pain, and swing the spear around to gut or hamstring Emir, but Emir steps forward again, slipping inside the general's reach, and catch the haft of the spear on his right side, this time the mace slides between Travis and his spear, grabbing the mace's head with his left hand, Emir twists away from the general, pulling the spear with him.

Travis, not expecting this, falls forward and looses the spear. Emir grabs the spear before it hits the ground and whirls once more, this time, the point of the spear finds Travis's throat. Emir twists with his left hand, and yanks the spear back out. He had killed Travis with his own weapon, while wielding it in his weak hand. Travis lived long enough to see this, before bleeding out onto the dusty ground.

Returning to the palace, only two hours after he left it, Emir presents the dirty and blood caked spear to his liege, Lord Douglas, head of house Miranti. Bowing he offers the spear, haft first, to the Lord Douglas, and thereby to the gathered lords, as proof of his victory.

Victory, as you requested, my lord.

After the humiliating defeat of their General, a majority of what was once Travis's troops retreated. A few who were overwhelmed with emotions charged forward in a futile attempt to avenge their deceased General before getting shot by the archers. This was the first defeat for Chancellor Devon and one that he would remember forever.

Meanwhile, Marquis Jeremy was delighted by Emir's return. The spear of General Travis brought honor to House Miranti and even greater honor to the coalition. The other Lords were impressed and nodded their heads, acknowledging Emir's abilities.

Lord Douglas smiled and told Colonel Emir to rise before putting his hand at his shoulders. "You have done well. You are hereby promoted to General of Narthwich. You will now be responsible to an additional 2000 conscripts, 600 light cavalry and 100 heavy cavalry."

Marquis Jeremy felt it was a pity such a formidable hero was not serving under him. Still having a smile on his face, he said "In addition to your promotion from Lord Douglas, you shall be rewarded with 1000 gold and 100 steeds."

After General Emir was dismissed, it did not take long for the Lords to return back to their respective rooms, ready for their daily rest. However, Marquis Jeremy stayed behind with Chief Strategist Antonidas, one of his most trusted advisor, to discuss about his future.

Antonidas spoke, "My Lord, I am afraid to inform you but your ambition of becoming the Emperor might take longer than what you originally predicted."

Marquis Jeremy was offended but he wanted to hear Antonidas's opinion and so, he replied "How so?"

Antonidas answered "My Lord, the Coalition against Chancellor Devon may have everything imaginable, ranging from troops to provisions to arms, but the lords' only intent in this war is to fight for ranks, for supplies and for land. Moreover, we lack the Emperor’s mandate, an object that is so necessary in such an endeavor. Without it, in whose name would we overthrow Chancellor Devon? Without it, in whose name should we rally the Empire? Without it, from whence would we derive legitimacy?"

Marquis Jeremy nodded to acknowledge Antonidas's point of view before asking "And how would we get a decree from the Emperor to legitimize our alliance?"

Antonidas replied bluntly, "We shall forge it, as only then could we claim Heaven’s support in the campaign."

Emir, now a general, and having been dismissed, left to have his armor checked for damage and, if necessary, repaired. He could have, by rules of the engagement, simply shot Travis with an arrow, and been done with it, but he knew that would not have had the desired effect on the general's men. He tried to explain this to his sister, who was always worried about his health. She wasn't his blood sister, he didn't know any of his blood relatives, if any were even still alive. This was a girl, of Korean decent, who had found herself homeless after her village was burned to the ground. She never did find out who had started the fire, but the fact that no one in the village when the fire started had survived suggested that it wasn't an accident. She had taken to the road, heading east as that was where the road lead, taking care to bind silk around her chest to hide her sex and avoid as much trouble as possible. Being poorly dressed and and stumbling from hunger and exhaustion, she had been found, and collected, by a patrol on one of Emir's forces training exercises. Seeing her poor condition emir had ordered her taken to the chief physician, to be treated and cleaned up. it was during this process that her sex was revealed. Emir quickly made sure everyone knew she was off limits, but had no real romantic interest in her himself. Over the years, he'd made sure she had lodgings and work to do, and she'd made sure he had well made and comfortable clothes. And the two had grown to know each other quite well, thought neither was interested in pursing a romantic relationship with the other. He asked her to see to the legal matters of the promotion and the changes it would bring to the estate back home. She reluctantly agreed, and left the next day, with her three maids, all of which could fight as well or better than most of Emir's warriors, though they usually employed very different tools and tactics.

News of the demise of General Travis dealt a severe blow to the morale of Chancellor Devon's army. Out of desperation, Devon sought the advice of his advisors. The first advisor suggested sending an envoy to Marquis Jeremy to negotiate for an armistice and was promptly executed. The second advisor suggested offering precious treasures of the Empire to the barbarians of Blencathra in return for their aid in the war against Marquis Jeremy and was sent to the dungeons.

The third advisor, Donovan, suggested sending an envoy to Lord Leo, Governor of Asopeos, to offer military aid in return for their loyalty. Given the cue to continue, he explained that there has always been bad blood between House Fortis and the barbarians of Blencathra. By backing Lord Leo, not only would Chancellor Devon be gaining a valuable ally in the upcoming wars, the barbarians would also not be able to expand their territories.

Pleased with Donovan's proposal, he appointed him as his ambassador to Asopeos and sent some servants alongside to serve his needs. Their journey to the south would begin the next sunrise.

Telkartha stared at nothing, deep in thought. Tomorrow Lord Donovan would be leaving for Asopeos. She was one of the servants going with him. It could mean her escape. But if she was going to escape, where would she go? She was too well-known in Ifeland. Someone would recognize her. Telkartha stood and started pacing. She didn't want to be here anymore anyway. People were disappearing everyday. Telkartha knew it wouldn't be easy to leave. Chancellor Devon wanted anything he could get his hands on. That included servants. Telkartha had not heard from the last servant who was caught. But that wasn't going to stop her. She would much rather die than be mistreated by a no-good coward. She had smirked after she heard that General Travis was dead. It served him right. All of Chancellor Devon's men should be slaughtered like pigs. Including the bastard himself. Telkartha sighed and headed towards the stables. Animals had always been a friend to her. Besides, it was part of her job to take care of the horses, since the former groom had been found floating in the river.

After finishing the last of her chores, Telkartha said goodbye to Liviano, her favorite horse. Liviano's knees had been broken because one of the Chancellor's idiotic men had ridden him too hard. Telkartha headed back to her quarters for some rest before Chancellor Devon gave her some crazy order.

There was thinking to be done.

Meanwhile in Aelinmiley, scouts reported that the army of Hedgemont is heading in their direction. Marquis Jeremy immediately summoned all his key officials and generals to the hall to plan their next move.

Marquis Jeremy started off by saying, “I am sure all of you are aware that the Count Herbert has sent his troops to invade us. I would like to hear your opinions on this matter.”

One of his generals said “My lord, I request that you pass the order to launch a frontal assault. I volunteer to serve as the vanguard general. After all, our military is twice when to compared to those of Hedgemont’s.”

Shaking his head, Advisor Antonidas sighed. He said “The general’s words are those of a simpleton. By target the enemy’s front, we are subjecting ourselves to the maximum defensive power of the enemy. It is precisely because of our military’s numerical advantage that allows us to choose from various tactical options. I suggest launching a counterattack. Not only would we face limited resistance, we would have the element of surprise.”

Stepping towards the middle, he continued, “To reach Aelinmiley, the army of Hedgemont must first cross Wolfcliff Slope. On the left of Wolfcliff Slope is Blackacre Hill and on the right is Redshore Forest. We are able to prepare an ambush at these two locations.”

Presenting a map before the rest, he pointed at Redshore Forest and said “General Calder would be stationed there with 2500 elite troops. When you see the Hedgemont troops, allow them to pass first. Wait until you see the transported supplies before ambushing them, burning all their provisions. You are to retreat immediately into the woods afterwards. This would serve as the signal for General Norman to mobilize his troops.”

After which he pointed at Blackacre Hill and said “General Norman would be stationed there with 2500 elite troops. As I mentioned earlier, upon seeing the fire, proceed to secure their escape route.”

Pointing at Wolfcliff Slope, he said “Finally, General Antony would bring 10,000 troops to face the enemy forces. Bring combustibles along and set them up on Wolfcliff Slope. Upon seeing the vanguard troops of Hedgemont, start the fire. This would cause the enemies to panic and be disorganized. Use this opportunity to attack them.”

Rolling the map, he finished his speech and returned back to his position.

Marquis Jeremy listened attentively as Antonidas explained his strategy. He was very pleased to have such an advisor under him. Nodding his head, he said “Antonidas shall be appointed the position of Commander-in-Chief for this campaign. Anyone who disobeys his orders shall be punished by military law, in other words, execution.”

As predicted, the battle ended with a decisive victory for Marquis Jeremy, with Count Herbert surrendering the day after.

Lord Leo stood on the balcony of his stronghold fortress named the Lion's Den located in the centre of New Leonum the capital city of Asopeos, he reminisced about the time when his father Lord Asad ruled over House Fortis' motherland Blencathra, he cursed the barbaric Oolacaryn and his even more barbaric father before him for countless times for their ruthless occupation.

He heard his balcony door open so he turned around to be greeted by a bowing guard "my lord, we received a message from Ifeland, a diplomatic envoy is on its way to Asepeos led by lord Donovan under the orders of Chancellor Devon" the guard announced in a respective tone, Lord Leo repressed a frown "very well, you can make arrangements for the welcoming party for our esteemed guest" he said in a forced calm tone, the guard bowed "will be done, my Lord" he said as he left.

As soon as the balcony door was closed Lord Leo's poker face broke and a frown marred his face "those damned royal barbarians, just as disgusting as those in the east!" he thought angrily as he hit the railings with his fist, Alexander and Hercules who were feasting on a death cow on the other side of the large balcony felt their master anger and immediately moved to his side rubbing their manes on his waists, he looked at them and smiled slightly as he rubbed their heads back "you two are my only real friends, aren't you?" he asked them receiving a purr of confirmation from both.

He looked at the bustling market under him were the blond heads of his people moved around "we must stay neutral, those skirmishes with the doubly cursed Silverkin clan is using all our forces, we can't afford another door of hell be opened" he said to them grimly as he went inside his castle followed by his two lions.

The large glowing sphere rose into the sky, casting rays of sunlight that illuminated the Empire. This particular sunrise had been a breathtaking display of radiant colors as peasants leave their homes to marvel at the view. Sir Donovan had woken up much earlier than usual, to prepare for the trip to Asopeos. He commanded a servant of his to gather the servants assigned to accompany him for the trip as he went personally to the stables to fetch his horse. Rubbing his horse’s muzzle affectionately, he retrieved his steed and headed to the Southern Gate.

When he arrived at the entrance, he jumped onto his horse. With the servants following behind him, he rode out of the Imperial Palace, eventually out of Ifeland. Occasionally, he would turn his head to look at the servants. Contrary to popular belief of anyone serving under Chancellor Devon, he did not do so to ensure that the servants did not escape. It was actually out of concern whether the servants could catch up.

Donovan was a scion of the imperial family, a member of House Heinrich. He was one generation above Emperor Damian, making him the uncle of the Emperor. He hid this information from everyone else as he feared for his safety should his true identity be exposed. Despite his grandfather being a senior civil official serving in the Imperial Court before he passed away, his father did not hold any office, resulting in the sudden drop to poverty. In order to earn a living, Donovan swallowed his pride and took a series of tests before his talents were recognized, after which he became an advisor serving under the traitor of the Empire.

He knew fighting against Chancellor Devon would not be easy but he was willing to take the risk to restore the glory of the legitimate Empire. The only reason why he did not make any move was because he was waiting for the right opportunity. Now that it was presented before his very eyes, he started formulating a plan as he rode towards his destination.

Telkartha watched Donovan, slightly glaring at him. She was on the outer edge of the group, walking as slowly as possible. Aside from orders, she would do everything possible to make this man miserable. Chancellor Devon wasn't here to punish her. And even if she didn't escape here, she could leave Asopeos. Telkartha could start a fight. Flathina, another servant, was right behind her. Flathina considered Chancellor Devon a "respectable man" and a "awful tramp". Flathina's grammar was terrible and she often confused others, but she would be fun to mess with. Telkartha, still watching Donovan, dropped back until she was right beside Flathina. Flathina looked at her oddly, but said nothing. Telkartha whispered innocently,"What are your plans for escape?" Flathina gasped and stared at her. "Escape?" Telkartha smiled. "Yes. Doesn't everyone have a dream of it?" Flathina's expression turned into shocked anger. "Do you know-" Telkartha laughed. Flathina raised her voice and started telling Telkartha about how stupid escape was. The other servants were looking at both of them. They had even grabbed Donovan's attention. Telkartha's plan had worked. She had a hidden smirk on her face.

Just as he was about to think of a place he could seek refuge in after betraying Chancellor Devon, the commotion behind him broke his chain of thought. He was frustrated, but he kept calm and turned around. "Silence," he said, establishing his authority, before explaining himself, "Unless you want to attract the bandits around here, keep your volume down."

The way in which he treated the servants was not common, considering the fact that servants were perceived as disposable and worthless. After all, an official need not explain himself to servants, who belonged from the lowest social class. However, he was a benevolent man and he believed that treating servants with disrespect and abusing them is not ethical. Servants are still subjects of the Empire and should be given the most basic respect as a human being. 

Meanwhile, they had completed fifty percent of their journey to Asopeos.

Telkartha deserted Flathina and made her way to the front, still on the edge. She kept lagging behind, but still somehow keeping pace with the others. She was doing it on purpose. It was the first time she had been out of Ifeland. Now that she wasn't in Ifeland, she could take out her revenge on Donovan. Attracting bandits? Pfft. Telkartha wondered if she could actually get Donovan off his horse. She stopped and casually stood there for no reason. Then she'd do it again before she dared to skip to the front and start humming loud enough for Donovan to hear. Then she would pull Flathina's hair or trip another servant. All the while looking at Donovan with a sideways glance. No noise was made, except when Telkartha did her routine again. She was going to test Donovan until he snapped. He might even let her go. Either way, she was not going back to Ifeland. Telkartha remembered the death of General Travis and started laughing.