Madness Ascendant

Preface

Welcome back, noble reader, to The Tale of Ages, that grand story of heroes and champions from a world that endures only in my fading memories. With each passing day, with each new page, those memories become more fleeting and my hand races to write them down before they fade forever.

Capturing the far-famed glory of yesteryear and preserving it on this brittle parchment is all I have left, and it is enough. The Herald himself, who came from beyond the Girdle, charged me to listen, record and thus, to preserve.

This is my blessing and my curse. I alone, of all who tread Sangrar’s hallowed earth, remember. I remember everything. I remember the struggles of the Warrior, Prince and Priestess against Erlik One-Eye, the Dark Lord. I remember the Primals in the Void, silver and gold. I remember fair Lindivar, murdered in the spring of the world. I remember the searing vengeance of molten fire and the World Walker’s march of chains. I remember love gone wrong and the breaking of the Stones. I remember the Sword’s forging and reforging. I remember the Keeper who cannot be named. I remember the scent of honeyed-musk and the roaring symphony of the earth song. I remember everything and the weight of it is too great. Today, my head bursts with The Tale of Ages, yet come tomorrow, I may remember none of it.

With trembling hand I lift pen to paper and recount all I learned at the feet of Kandol Elf Lord, greatest of the Fair Folk, and I am ashamed of my feeble skill. Were he here, I would beg his forgiveness for my clumsy retelling. Like a master composer, each note of his Tale struck a deep, resonant chord. Next to his symphony, mine is a bar song for sailors on leave. My only excuse is that I’m running a race I’m destined to lose. Each day is precious and I have no time to craft each sentence with a diamond cutter’s perfection. I am no tender gardener to lovingly prune each branch; I am the scythe.

Yet, as poor as I tell the Tale, you are back, noble reader, back to see where Hali’s quest will lead and to learn of the Sangrar that came before yours. In this adventure of the Warrior, Prince and Priestess, you will discover the terrible might of the God Reborn, the evil machinations of the prince coveting the Pearl Throne and those who resist tyranny. Tales of wonder and amazement shall reward your curiosity, tales to share with your children and your children’s children, tales to whisk you away to a timeless world, a world of gods and magik, a world of hope and betrayal, and yes, a world of triumph and sorrow, a world of the Necessity.

Enjoy noble reader and salute the glory of yesteryear. Through you, may the Sangrar of my youth live once more. May the Maiden’s kiss bless you and may the Explorer guard your path.

Jerilyn Haligar,

Master Historian,

Dean Emeritus of History,

University of Colcester,

Sangritharian Fellow of the Ages

The Prophecies of the Ages

"The Years of Making shall unfold as you do our will and prepare the world for the Elder Races. The Firmament shall be raised for the Suns and Stars and you shall make the Gods of Light. The Pattern of the Seasons shall be made and the Elder Races shall arise, bringing with them the Years of Glory and the Elder Days, which shall be great beyond imagining. Songs praising them shall echo to the stars and back. The Twice Forged Sword shall be made and remade and the heroes of the Prophecies shall be born. Yet even then, Darkness shall endure and cast its shadow. Sorrow shall enter the world, born from love gone wrong, and usher in the Age of Tears. In the end, the Elder Days shall fade and their majesty shall be lost; only a few shall remain, testament to the kingdoms of old. Then the Herald shall return and the Girdle shall grow again. The Age of Man shall follow; the last of our children shall awaken and attain new glories. The Days of Myth shall unfold and Mankind shall come into its heritage and blanket the earth. Thus shall the days of Sangrar be fulfilled, until the Gates of Heaven crumble and the Long Night begins."

These are the Prophecies, Sangrar’s watchwords through the ages, as Kandol Elf Lord told them to me. The Primals first dreamt them in the Void, visions too complex for mere words, and shared them with the gods at Feast of Creation. Though my humble prose falls woefully short, may you remember them nonetheless, noble reader, in this new age where the gods have forsaken us and only one Sun shines, and think fondly of those who came before you. Jerilyn of Colcester.

Maps

Kingdoms of Sangrar

Sangrar Geography

Northwest Fanar

Lands of the Empire

The Capitol

Cast of Characters

People in Gloryngael

Torval Ardwyn Waverider – the God-Emperor of Sangrithar. Gloryngael is his palace. Tintammil is the grand hall where the Pearl Throne resides and the nobles assemble.

Empress Celle Halvyl Ardwynn Waverider – the God-Emperor’s wife and Hali’s sister

Prince Talmynar Ardwynn Waverider – the God-Emperor’s son and heir

The dark-haired beauty – the prince’s companion

Maelryn the Vizier – an ancient Elven advisor to the Pearl Throne, Emerre’s half-brother

Emerre – an ancient Elven warrior recently returned to Sangrithar, Maelryn’s half-brother

Manchiro – Gloryngael’s steward, a slave

Brussa – kitchen slave, the palace cook

Mott – kitchen slave, former gladiator

Ciara – kitchen slave

Padiera Linvelt– the empress’s chief handmaiden

Millicent Navari – the empress’s handmaiden

Natala Lorhausen– the empress’s handmaiden

Lyddi Tuldari– the empress’s handmaiden, Fafingard’s granddaughter

Wardens and Legionnaires

Lord Warden Hali Halvyl – the commander of Sangrithar’s legions

High Warden Avery Tavistern– commander of the infantry

High Warden Cantalor Fagan – Horsemaster, commander of the cavalry

High Warden Daerycil Belsor – commander of the Averchai

High Warden Ivrael Landella– the Admiral, commander of the fleet

Master Warden Jafal Ordalli – an officer in the infantry

Master Warden Kaphiri Fellstar– an officer and Hali’s adjutant

Deputy Warden Renjarro Palluri – a former officer in the Averchai and Devotee

Legionnaire Tukir Evari – a guard at Gloryngael’s gate

Legionnaire Fafingard Tuldari – a guard at Gloryngael’s gate

Legionnaire Tyrias Eversin – High Warden Avery’s aide

Nobles

Baron Whysteri – the Baron of Danfarthing, a barony east of Sangrithar

Baron Zakari Maldane– the Baron of Tanylcar, a barony west of Sangrithar

Baron Zirkali Maldane – the son of Baron Zakari

Count Vand Auberc – a landless noble living in Sangrithar

Countess Aescalia Auberc – Auberc’s mother

Count Jalkari Malacor – a merchant noble living in Sangrithar

Lord Raynard Barginali – the Marquis of Lorvale, a province north of Sangrithar

Lord Mirakar Djen – the Marquis of Umbari, a province northwest of Sangrithar

Lord Olantor Videssyn– the Marquis of Videssyn, a landless noble living in Sangrithar

Signor Pelthane Orvandal – a merchant noble living in Sangrithar

Sangritharians

Gestarre Redhorn– an innkeeper, owner of The Golden Whale

Hermyna Halkannyth– high priestess of the Maiden

Sofyrra – one of Hermyna’s disciples

Tomello – a rogue

Biraeus – a rogue

Teramon the Red – a street prophet

Cormaners

Baron Xander Lessari – the Baron of Cormane

Nirani Lessari– the baron’s wife

Xandrachaeus Lessari – the baron’s son

Elsbeth Lessari – the baron’s daughter

Roteri Jennilson– a former mercenary living in Cormane

Vandal – guards the gate to the keep

The Humadin

Hotepitas – Bardalla of the Lucatakka, the wolf people

Tikematu – son of Hotepitas

Tukalanda – son of Tikematu

Miramani – granddaughter of Hotepitas, Tikematu’s niece

Fair Folk

Kandol Elf Lord – the king of the Fair Folk. He resides on the summit of Pel Aesylle, the Mountain of Clouds.

Velora the Faerie Queen – Kandol’s wife

Hirandal – a traveling Elf

Embyrl – the Spear of Indalle, a sorceress of the Elder Days

King Aeris – Lord of Dol Melerith, Emerre’s father and Maelryn’s step-father

Queen Ilnaya – The Swan Princess and Lady of Dol Melerith, Emerre and Maelryn’s mother

What has gone before

Torval Waverider, God-Emperor of Sangrithar and the divine descendant of Thar who was Umbar sits upon the Pearl Throne. He wields the blue god-fire that is every God-Emperor’s birthright and, since Arvyl’s Folly centuries past, every God-Emperor’s curse. The curse has driven him insane and as he has fallen into madness, so has Sangrithar fallen from glory. The streets are filled with squalor, the people are downtrodden and the God-Emperor’s tyranny reigns supreme.

He sends Lord Warden Hali Halvyl, the commander of his legions, to the poor town of Cormane to collect an overdue tithe from Baron Xander Lessari. Like the Lord Wardens before him, Hali is magically compelled to serve the God-Emperor and Cormane is but one unpleasant task of many he has performed for Torval. When Hali arrives, the baron’s young son sparks memories of Halivan, his own son dead many years at the hands of assassins. Knowing that the compulsion will punish him, Hali forgives Baron Lessari the tithe and by doing so, is freed from servitude to the God-Emperor. He realizes the compulsion’s true purpose is to protect the people of Sangrithar.

With his adjutant, Kaphiri Fellstar, Hali returns to Sangrithar and comes before the God-Emperor in the throne room. After a battle of wills, the bond between him and the God-Emperor is irrevocably severed and he is sent into exile along with Kaphiri. Joining him are Maelryn, an Elven advisor serving the Pearl Throne since time immemorial and Maelryn’s mysterious half-brother, Emerre, a grim warrior who lets his blade do his talking. Unbeknownst to Hali, the company includes a traitor who reports back to an unnamed master.

Before leaving Sangrithar, Hali meets secretly with Avery Tavistern, High Warden of Sangrithar’s infantry. Avery is also the lay leader of the Maiden’s Devotees, an ancient religion outlawed by the God-Emperor, and he promises to rally those tired of the God-Emperor’s rule while awaiting Hali’s return.

A patrol of Averchai, the God-Emperor’s elite troops, escorts Hali out of the city. Renjarro Palluri, the patrol leader, is secretly a Devotee and allows Hali a last visit to the Maiden’s shrine, where Hermyna the high priestess is waiting. The Maiden possesses her and tells Hali to seek Kandol Elf Lord in the forests of Dael Vyrnyn before Daerycil Belsor, commander of the Averchai, interrupts them.

Belsor deposits Hali outside the city, where he begins his long journey north. He battles Averchai and then Skulfs, a horrid mix of wolf and beetle. During the fight with the Skulfs, god-fire, thought to belong exclusively to the God-Emperor, appears over his head. With its power, Hali handily defeats them.

In Sangrithar, Avery forms an underground resistance against the God-Emperor. Chief among those aiding him are Hermyna, the Empress Celle (Hali’s sister), Renjarro and Padiera Linvelt, the empress’s chief handmaiden. The latter two fall in love, and after Belsor becomes suspicious, Avery fakes Renjarro’s death with the help of a talented rogue named Tomello and sends him on a mission to Cormane.

The God-Emperor has other concerns than Hali. His son, Prince Talmynar, is plotting to seize the Pearl Throne. Handsome and fair on the outside, Talmynar’s soul is black with shadow. He is aided by a nameless dark-haired beauty and Jafal Ordalli, the cruel Master Warden responsible for tasting the God-Emperor’s food.

Hali and the others reach the Mountain of Clouds deep in the heart of the Dael Vyrnyn, where Kandol Elf Lord dwells. More Skulfs beset them and Kandol’s wife, Velora the Faerie Queen, saves them. She takes them to Kandol, who reveals that Talmynar, not Torval, is Hali’s true enemy. Kandol opens a portal for Hali to Ardilun, the mystical home of the Maiden. While in Ardilun, Hali meets Andis, an Elf priestess, and learns he must rediscover the earth song, an ancient magik silent for thousands of years.

After returning from Ardilun, a bat-like demon from the Elder Days attacks Hali in his bedchambers. Instinctively, he summons god-fire to vanquish it. Using the god-fire frightens him. He should not have such power and does not want it. All who touch the god-fire are driven mad and he wants to end the God-Emperor’s tyranny not become Sangrithar’s next tyrant. Following Kandol’s advice of Kandol, Hali and his companions leave the Mountain of Clouds to look for the hidden temple of the Seeress, the first step in finding the long lost earth song.

Chapter 1: Decisions

Velora’s people, the Light Elves, were underappreciated. While my Grandfather and his sons built the Elven kingdoms of old, Arethnal’s people led a pure and simple life. They passed their days studying the Heavens and those who achieved the deepest level of understanding became Elders of the Seasons after passing the ritual. Long before I became the Balance’s servant, I was fortunate enough to grasp the secrets of the Pattern and attained the status of Elder, but in this, Velora was always my better. Kandol Elf Lord

It was the month of Garruth the Laughing God, time for farmers to reap their fields and squirrel away the fruits of the harvest. In the world below Pel Aesylle, the soft warmth of autumn was giving way to winter. Each morn, frost glazed Sangrithar’s windows and frozen dew sparkled like crystal tear drops on the Highlands, but in the Dael Vyrnyn, spring bloomed eternal.

For three days, Hali had enjoyed the hospitality of Kandol Elf Lord, king of the otherworldly Fair Folk, who moved with grace born in another time. The eldest of them shone with auras ranging from Velora’s soft glow to Kandol’s brilliant blaze. Then, he’d left the Elvenhome to seek the Humadin, nomads of the steppes who might tell him where to find the Seeress. The journey would take them across the Dragonback Ridge, which, Kandol had warned was too steep for the horses. Regretfully, he’d left faithful Avashar with the Fair Folk after assurances he would be well cared for. Leaving him was difficult; he and the stallion had been together many campaigns. He’d miss his strength beneath him in the days ahead.

He scanned the mountainside looking for Kaphiri. The wiry adjutant had gone ahead to scout even though their guide, Velora of the Dancing Veils, said they had no reason to worry. Kaphiri had grinned and darted ahead after smiling in that please-indulge-me way of his. Small and quick as a rabbit, he could walk through a field of dry leaves without making a sound and squeeze through places meant for a child.

Like a ghost from the spirit world, Kaphiri appeared silently and flashed the danger signal. His deep, brooding eyes darted from side to side. Shhh! Skulfs are about.

A grim Elven warrior stepped out from behind a tree and his cloak shuffled in the wind. Golden locks, fine features and green eyes that had stared into death uncounted times made Emerre fair to behold, but left his spirit troubled. At least a dozen from the sound of it.

Again? said an unusually taciturn Maelryn. An aura of light sheathed the former Vizier. He looked nothing like his half-brother, Emerre. Ruddy and small for one of the Fair Folk, he wore his power brightly, like an adept of the Elder Days. Skulfs are dim-witted beasts, the least of the Dark Lord’s lackeys. Piercing Kandol’s wards should be as beyond their reach as the stars.

Strange, isn’t it? said Emerre. One might almost think they had help.

Of course they had help, said Velora, who was so much more than their guide. They’re no brighter than the wolves or Scarags from which they’re bred. By themselves, they could never enter the Dael Vyrnyn.

It must be the God-Emperor, offered Kaphiri.

Velora’s aura flared ever so slightly. Hers was softer than Maelryn’s but no less powerful. There are many evils in the world, young one. Your God-Emperor is just one and by no means the worst. Next to the Traitor, whom you know as the Shadow Lord, your God-Emperor’s evil is nothing and even the Traitor is but a servant of Sorrow. The Dark Lord is the one truly responsible for every evil befalling the world.

The Faerie Queen’s beauty had entranced Kaphiri and her wisdom had helped conquer his decades old fear of sorcery. He bowed low, in a sweeping gesture of respect. All the same, the God-Emperor is the worst evil we know. No one but he would have any interest in us.

Her aura grew brighter still. Didn’t you learn anything in Tar-Vydael, Kaphiri? You are all part of something greater than you know. No longer mere exiles, you serve the Prophecies and that can attract all sorts of attention.

Kaphiri’s stubborn streak reared its head. Once, he’d traveled to Danfarthing, a journey of nearly a tenday, to meet Baron Whysteri rather than admit he’d made a mistake. Still, we have nothing to worry about, do we Velora? Kandol’s magik is stronger than the God-Emperor’s.

Apprehension, of the God-Emperor in particular, laced his friend’s question. Kaphiri may have put down his old fear of sorcery, but the merest mention of Torval made him jittery.

It is not stronger or weaker, it’s just different, she answered.

All power is the same, said Maelryn. Whether it harkens from the Spires, the gods, Spirit’s shattered weave, or someplace else, makes no difference. All power comes from the Flame.

Kaphiri motioned them to shush. I’m sorry I asked! Just be quiet, they’re drawing closer.

Hali drew Wavestriker, the ancient sword worn by his forebears and pushed the salt and pepper hair from his eyes with his free hand.

Gather round, motioned Velora. I will keep the Skulfs away.

This was not the first time he’d witnessed Velora’s power. When they’d first reached Pel Aesylle she’d saved them from Skulfs by summoning vines that pulled the horrid monsters into the earth. He wondered what spell she’d use today.

Kaphiri sidled alongside her. He and Kaphiri had been best friends since childhood and he was hard pressed to remember a woman Kaphiri hadn’t flirted with, be she short or tall, fat or skinny, fair or otherwise. In that way, he and Kaphiri were as different as summer and winter. He had lost his wife, Cymara, and his son, Halivan, long ago in a purported accident. Since then, he’d focused on his duties as Lord Warden and kept his icy heart shut. In Ardilun, he’d laid with Andis the Goddess, his first intimacy since Cymara’s death, and though he yearned to lie with Her again, that would never happen. Andis the priestess clung to the old ways, which forbid mingling between the races, and she lived in far-off Ardilun, which he could never visit again.

My lady’s power is greater than any Skulf’s, Kaphiri declared.

He thought his friend had gone too far this time, but Velora chose to take it as a compliment. Stay here, young one. Watch over your friend and keep him close at hand.

What about them? Kaphiri thumbed in the direction of their Elves.

Maelryn can take care of himself and Emerre, well, he’s Emerre. Her aura expanded to bathe the entire mountainside in soft light. Then, she began to dance, twirling in ever faster circles as a rainbow of long silken veils unfolded from nowhere.

The Skulf pack exploded from the trees below. Part wolf and part beetle, they bound up the slope and quickly closed the distance. Nearly seven feet long and half that high at the shoulder, Skulfs had shaggy coats of grey and brown and from the neck up resembled Scarags, the huge rock-tearing beetles with gleaming ruby eyes that came from the Dark Lord’s Breeding Pits. Armored with dark green chitinous plates on the neck, Scarags had mandibles that could crack open a suit of fine Dwarven mail.

Velora moved away in a swirl of light and dance. Creatures of the night, the Skulfs were drawn to her like a moth to a flame, seduced by that which they could never have. Intent on her pirouetting figure, they ran past him and Kaphiri as if they weren’t there.

As for the Elven queen, she proved that she was indeed Velora of the Dancing Veils, the same maiden that had ensorcelled a youthful Kandol in the vale of Alyrre ages ago. Her light was Edda’s, shining bright; her dance was Annumbra’s, walking the world; her beauty was the Maiden’s, pure as honey, and the Skulfs stood no chance against her. As fast as they were, their leaps and bounds were slow as falling snowflakes against the flurry of her dance. With an aura so brilliant, he could have seen her had she danced all the way to Sangrithar.

What … began Kaphiri.

Quiet, whispered Maelryn. Silence keeps her spell strong. Speak at your own peril.

But …

He smacked Kaphiri on the shoulder. Listen to the Vizier and shut your mouth for once. There are no maidens here to impress.

The Skulfs were nearly out of sight, having chased Velora around the curve of the mountainside. Had they been ordinary wolves, he’d have heard them bay, but the monstrous Skulfs could only clack their mandibles.

Emerre returned holding a Skulf head in each hand, which he threw at his feet. I couldn’t let Velora have all the fun.

He shook his head. He valued Emerre’s sword, but his constant disappearances were bothersome. He was unaccustomed to such independence. In the military, success demanded complete obedience to orders and authority, which the Elven lord could not offer.

Across the horizon, Velora’s aura flared and he covered his eyes. Not long after, she ambled over the rise like she was out for a morning stroll.

They won’t trouble us anymore, she said casually while eyeing the heads on the ground. I see that Emerre has taken care of the stragglers.

Emerre tilted his head in acknowledgement.

What did you do to them? the adjutant asked without reservation.

He was glad Kaphiri no longer trembled near magik. In the past, her display would have left him ashen-faced. He was also grateful that her dancing had dispatched the Skulfs before the god-fire could manifest.

Only what they deserved. Millennia with Kandol had taught her well the art of evasion.

Three days later, in the middle of Imma’s Watch, the company reached the edge of the Dael Vyrnyn. To the east stretched the Dragonback Ridge, a spine of mountains that ran north to south separating the Dael Vyrnyn from the Swordfist Plains. Velora’s magik had kept them safe and they’d suffered no further attacks. He held up his hand to call for a stop.

While they’d traveled, Velora filled his head with hero stories until he’d asked her to stop. He didn’t want to be a hero of the Prophecies, he just wanted the tyrant gone and beyond that, had no ambition. The repurposed compulsion drove him forward and he clung to it. The god-fire did not offer victory, only madness and shadow. If Kandol’s earth song was the key to Sangrithar’s salvation, then he would find it.

That is where you must go, said Velora, pointing to the pass. Though not quite winter, autumn storms had left it covered in snow. You have a long journey – the temple of the Seeress is far from here.

The empire of Sangrithar had but two religions, Umbar and the Maiden, and the latter had been outlawed for centuries. In other nations, many gods were revered, but in the home of the God Reborn, the only worship tolerated was Thar who was Umbar’s. The God-Emperor could not deny the existence of the other gods, their deeds were too legendary, but he could and did strictly forbid any form of prayer or obeisance. Most people knew the names of the other gods and a few myths from the Elder Days, and he, who had been educated in Colcester, knew more than the average citizen, but even his knowledge did not go deep.

The rites of Norath the Seeress were unknown to him. The patron of fate and the future, she was a goddess shrouded in mystery. He’d seen much of Fanar, yet never stumbled upon one of her shrines nor anyone who followed her teachings. I know little of her. What can you tell me?

Velora glanced about to check whether the Seeress might be listening. In the Elder Days, the Seeress was quite active in the affairs of the Elder Races and though she now dwells in the Outermost Heavens, she has not changed her ways. She is indeed a mistress of fate, Hali, and her single purpose is to see the Prophecies of the Ages fulfilled. Back then, she dwelt in Aux, her cavern of visions, surrounded by her faithful Pangral, a race of large cat-like creatures with leathery white bat wings. Within Aux was a crystal clear lake, where she would gaze into myriad futures. She used Aux to steer events towards fulfillment of the Prophecies. The Pangral shared her gift and used earth song to see glimpses of what lay ahead.

Sunlight struck her face and overhead, a pair of robins was building a nest in the branches of a tall oak. Harnor never forgave Deridean for excluding Dragons from the Elder Races and to spite him, the Lord of the Spires brought forth Dracorys and Davyrma. In so doing, he incurred Finbardin’s wrath and, in his infinite wisdom, the King of Heaven left Harnor’s punishment to Norath, Deridean’s newly awakened daughter. The Seeress inherited her father’s enmity and it delighted her to no end to pronounce doom over Dracorys and Davyrma. She knew full well what her doom would portend, proving not even gods are above temptation!

Her gaze strayed to the summit where Kandol waited for her to return. My husband owes his Harnae training to the Seeress. She showed them the grove of the silver birch and in exchange, extracted a promise to train the house of Nammoran.

Why would she do that? Kaphiri asked. It seems like promises have a way of backfiring with you people.

Velora reached out to take his hand. So, you have learned something after all. Remember, the Seeress’s ultimate goal is the fulfillment of the Prophecies. Everything she does, every time she intercedes, it is with that intention. She foresaw that Kandol would become a servant of destiny and need special training, so she tricked the Harnae into providing it. Using the children of her father’s enemy merely made it more satisfying.

He hadn’t thought the gods capable of such pettiness, but she spoke with such certainty. Were you there? With the Seeress and the Harnae?

No, the Seeress made her promise during the First Congress, when my father, a Secondborn, slept in wait for Nammoran, but I have met the Seeress and gazed in Aux’s waters. Her voice softened and her eyes, blue as the ocean’s deep, grew pensive. She seeks to do good, but leaves chaos in her wake. She cannot see what she doesn’t look for.

He scratched his chin. I thought you and Kandol wanted the Prophecies fulfilled. She is a goddess …

The Faerie Queen tossed her head in fiery indignation. Should any single being shape the destiny of the world, Hali? Is that right? By the Stones, I think not! No one, be they mortal or divine, should wield such a strong hand. What if they are wrong?

Her attitude perplexed him. Wrong? How can a goddess be wrong?

Velora took his hands. I forget, Hali. You have not known the gods as I have. You have not danced with them or felt their caresses.

He stood tall. I have known the Maiden’s touch.

Then you know some of what I speak. You know more than many of my people. She glanced at Emerre and Maelryn. The warrior had skewered a brace of rabbits and was roasting them over a campfire. Maelryn was across the fire and sitting cross-legged with eyes closed. Both of them were born after the Reckoning. They never heard the earth song, they never beheld a god, but you have. You have partaken of the gods’ vastness, but have not witnessed their failings. The gods are not perfect, they are not omniscient. They have powers greater than you or I, but are not all powerful. They are subject to pride and revenge. They bicker and quarrel amongst themselves just like dogs scuffling over scraps. They can make mistakes … they have made mistakes.

He was fascinated. Other than Umbar and the Maiden, the gods were abstract figures, the subjects of myth and legend. Velora described them like real people. He had never thought of them that way. Isn’t that sacrilege?

Nonsense. I don’t care which of them are listening. They know I’m speaking the truth. She shook her fist at Heaven. Are you watching, Lord Councilor? By your name, I swear it. Strike me down should a falsehood pass these lips.

She waited for Heaven to shower her with retribution and when none came, raised her fist again, triumphantly. See, Hali. I speak the truth. The gods have masters too. The Gods of Light and the Vanara bow to the wishes of the Craeylu, who answer to the Primals. She lowered her voice so only he could hear. Even Zuras and Majestrix, who brought forth the Girdle, have masters. They answer to the Necessity, which in turn is subservient to the Balance. Only the Balance is supreme. Only the Balance has no master.

Sparkles of light danced across her eyes. Knowing all this, do you still think it wise to trust the future to any one person or god? I don’t. Who knows what the Seeress saw in Aux? She witnessed infinite futures. Can you imagine trying to fit it all together, a puzzle without any edges? It’s impossible, even for a goddess. For all her efforts, for all her machinations, her interference amounts to little more than dangerous meddling. She seeks the Prophecies fulfilled, yet she cannot comprehend what that truly means.

He angrily interrupted. Enough, Velora! I’ve heard enough about your Prophecies. I don’t want to hear any more. If it weren’t for the god-fire, I wouldn’t even be looking for the Seeress. Just tell me where to find her temple, please.

Velora reined in her aura. Very well, but then I must go. The pass leads to the Swordfist Plains. Be mindful, the trail is rough and the pass is high. There will be snow on the ground this time of year. You should reach the end in six or seven days and from there you’ll journey east, across the Swordfist Plains and the Whispering Hills, for several tendays. Beyond the hills are the Northern Steppes, where the Humadin roam. They can tell you how to find the Seeress’s temple.

He hugged her. Thank you. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for all your help. He meant every word. She and Kandol had given him a goal. They had given him direction.

She drew him close and whispered. You can choose not to listen, Hali of House Halvyl, but you cannot silence that which grows within you.

Kaphiri stepped forward. Might I be so bold as to ask for a kiss before you go? One tiny kiss, that’s all, to help me remember you.

Her lips pouted. I’m so disappointed, Kaphiri. Haven’t I left a … memorable impression?

His eyes twinkled, banter was his specialty. I could never forget you, my queen. My memories will last my entire lifetime. It’s just that … well, that’s such a short time for you. With a kiss, my memories would live on after I die, for a hundred lifetimes.

She laughed and her veils shimmered like rippling water. How can I resist such a request? Come here, Master Kaphiri and receive your reward.

Kaphiri closed his eyes and held out his hand.

I think you deserve better than that. She pulled him near and pressed her lips gently against his. He put his arms around her waist and held her tight.

Did I say one hundred lifetimes, my queen? I was mistaken. For that kiss my memories shall live on until the Gates of Heaven crumble and the Long Night begins! His voice was dry and cracked.

Her smile turned to a frown. You see, Hali. It has begun. Even Kaphiri speaks from the Prophecies. All whom you know, all whom you cherish share your doom. You cannot escape your destiny.

In the middle of Olla’s Watch, hours after the queen departed, a warm tingling roused the spy from his rest.

We require your presence. Now! demanded a muffled voice inside his pouch.

He rolled onto his side and scanned the campsite. No one seemed to be up and about. He rose, stretched his arms and feigned a yawn. No one reacted and he strolled out of the camp.

We are getting impatient, said the now petulant voice.

The spy hurried behind a thick patch of briars and withdrew the crystal from his pouch. Immediately, his master’s face formed in the center facet, looking most upset.

We are most displeased, boomed the voice. More than half a tenday has passed since we last heard from you. This is most distressing, most distressing indeed.

Just like the last time, he heard female laughter in the background. I’m sorry, master. I meant no offense. I will contact you when it’s safe.

You will speak with us now! the voice commanded.

Yes, master, he trembled. I am your servant. It’s just … I don’t want the others to find out.

His master’s face contorted with impatience. We desire answers. Tell us what the traitor learned from the Elf Lord?

Sweat rolled down the back of his neck. If he lied, if he held back the truth, would his master know? He met with Kandol and the Faerie Queen in private. I couldn’t hear what passed between them.

Do not stall, his master warned. We have no time for your games. Tell us what the traitor is after.

He willed all the tension into his clenched fists. We came here because the Maiden told Hali to.

We remember you saying so, said the voice and the face within scowled. But there is no Maiden, she left Sangrar long ago. The Lord Warden is either delusional or a liar. Or you lie.

No, master, he trembled fearfully. I would never lie to you. I swear by Thar who was Umbar, Hali believes in the Maiden. He even … He stopped short of mentioning Ardilun. His master would not learn of that fabled land from him.

Go on, drawled the voice. Leave nothing out.

He … he seeks the earth song.

Laughter came from the crystal. He seeks what? The earth song? He is an even bigger fool that we thought. He might as well look for a fourth Sun! What would give him such a notion?

The Elf Lord is hard to ignore. He filled Hali’s head with tales of prophecies and heroes. I didn’t understand most of what they said.

You told us you were not present. How do you know what was said?

In the distance, a wolf howled into the night. I wasn’t, master. I told you the truth. Hali told me afterward.

Let us imagine that the earth song does exist. What does he hope to do with it? Where does he think to find it?

I don’t know, master. The answers may lie in Kandol’s prophecies, but beyond that, I cannot say.

A pitched voice issued from the crystal. Prophecies? Do you mean that foolish rhyme, Arvyl’s Doom? It is an old wife’s tale! We are descended from Thar who was Umbar. We will not be undone by ancient poems.

A legend from Arvyl the Dreamer before leading the legions to the Shadowgrim, it foretold a day when the God-Emperors did not sit upon the Pearl Throne. I think not, master. Hali never mentioned the five signs or the Doom by name. These prophecies were far older.

Did the Elf Lord know where he might find this ancient magik?

He brightened. This question he could answer without lying or holding back. Alas, n –

Alas? What’s that we hear, slave? Pity for the traitor? We would hope your sympathies lie with us, for your sake and the sake of those you hold dear.

A thousand pardons, master. He kissed the crystal. Kandol did not know. If truth be told, the Elf Lord thinks Hali searches for that which does not exist.

The voice laughed. In that, at least, we agree. We are pleased the Lord Warden has undertaken such a foolish quest. The longer he searches, the more he shall fade from memory. With each passing day, more recognize him as a treasonous rebel. Where are you bound?

We seek the temple of the Seeress in the Northern Steppes.

Another laugh came from the crystal, followed by a second, this one fainter and feminine. This is too rich. Only the truly lost would seek advice from a near dead goddess to find something that does not exist.

Master?

The Seeress’s time is past, just as the Maiden’s. She has hidden in the Outermost Heavens since the Reckoning, content to leave dominion over the earth to the heirs of Thar. You have done well, slave. We are pleased.

He exhaled, relieved the night’s interview was nearly over. What is your will, master?

Encourage the Lord Warden. Urge him to continue this mad quest. The Luck of Sudnar, our one true friend among the gods, is with us. The Lord Warden shall die of old age before finding what he seeks.

Giggling issued from the crystal. We must go now. Contact us again when you know more.

Yes, master. It is several tendays to the temple. I will –.

The face faded.

Chapter 2: The Gathering

"The Golden Whale? No, by my time it was long gone. When I visited Sangrithar, I stayed at The Pansy Shield. A crazy old warrior named Swafnah with a pansy fetish ran the place. Every table had a fresh vase of pansies, even in the dead of winter. Shields with embossed flowers covered the walls, the linens – always fresh, I might add – were embroidered with a pansy theme and every item on the menu came with a pansy garnish. One of his oldest friends told me that he’d been catapulted one time too many. Needless to say, this Swafnah attracted an odd crowd, one that I rather enjoyed. " Jerilyn of Colcester

The hidden room behind the wine cellar in the basement of The Golden Whale stank of must. The only other way out was the passage Renjarro had taken five nights earlier. Boxes sealed with rusty nails, dust-covered bottles of wine and thread worn blankets, barely visible in the dim light issuing from the two brass lanterns resting on the table, littered the floor of the underground meeting place. Shadows flickered over the group gathered at Avery’s summons, transforming them into demons worthy of the Dark Lord’s Breeding Pits. In the common room above, he heard a minstrel strumming a guitar, ladies playing cat and mouse with drunken sailors and meat sizzling over open flames.

The door cracked open revealing a sliver of light, like Aeriel ushering in the dawn, and forced the demons away. Gestarre Redhook, the owner of The Golden Whale, carried a tray of steaming meat pies that smelled of mint and a bowl of roasted vegetables. The tavern keeper had a stooped back, a white mop of hair and a thick mustache.

His fellow conspirators turned to watch the tavern keeper approach. Gestarre set the tray down between the two lanterns and handed a meat pie to the empress, who was sitting to his left. I’m sorry, my lady, but this is the best I could scrounge. Anything else would have raised questions. These would have been tossed tomorrow.

Celle cut into the pie and took a healthy bite. It’s wonderful, Gestarre. Thank you.

The others helped themselves. I’ll check back in an hour or so. If you need to leave sooner, check the peephole. If the wine cellar is empty, go upstairs and knock on the pantry door twice. If the way is clear, I’ll open it. If not, take the underground passage immediately.

Hopefully that won’t be necessary. Avery waited for the innkeeper to leave. He had inspected the secret passage with Gestarre before the others had arrived. As a military man, he knew to prepare more than one escape route, and with all of them here, this was especially important. If they were caught, there would be no one to carry on the resistance, no one to prepare for Hali’s return. Though fraught with risk, this meeting had been necessary. He couldn’t do this through couriers.

His gaze took in Celle. Hali’s sister and a rallying figure for the cause, she was made of sterner stuff than he’d believed – shame on him for doubting the fiber of House Halvyl. Despite increasingly abusive treatment from the God-Emperor since Hali’s exile and cruel mocking from her son, Prince Talmynar, Celle’s courage and belief in their cause remained unwavering. Even now, with bruises she refused to hide under makeup, she endured her suffering quietly and with dignity.

In Gloryngael, she wore gowns befitting an empress. No one would guess that the woman entering The Golden Whale wearing a simple grey frock and blue wool shawl, and her button-nosed, red-haired companion were actually the empress and her handmaiden.

Padiera’s coppery curls bounced just past her shoulder. She wore a burnt-red dress complimenting her freckles that was cut low and revealed her ample bosom. She was still mourning Renjarro and her smile, though warm, was forced. Before the night was through, he would see her happiness restored.

To his right sat Signor Pelthane Orvandal, an unattractive stump of a man whose bulbous, warted nose resembled a parsnip. The second generation of his family born in Sangrithar, he retained the high forehead of his Endiron forebears, which only accentuated his unfortunate snout. An unprepossessing man, Orvandal was a secret weapon for the resistance. A merchant noble of the least rank, too low in the standings of Tintammil to warrant attention, he had quietly led many illicit resistance activities. His villa housed armor and weapons and his household guard was well-trained and larger than anyone suspected.

Next to Pel, Tomello fidgeted in his chair. The rogue, second behind the mysterious Blade in the loose knit guild of Sangrithar’s thieves and beggars, was older than the just-past-adolescence youth he pretended to be. Blessed with an underdeveloped physique, a flair for disguise and a gift for theatre, Tomello could choose to be between fourteen and forty. Tonight, a street toughened youth, with coffee colored hair wearing trousers so grimy that they were no color at all and an open vest stared back at him with his feet upon the table and half a meat pie crammed into his mouth.

To Celle’s left, Hermyna Halkannyth, the high priestess of the Maiden, garbed in traditional white cotton robes, silently observed the proceedings. Descended from a minor branch of the God-Emperors’ line, with hair like fire that screamed in comparison to Padiera’s soft copper, she sat straight backed and absent her usual smile, reading the others’ faces. During Hali’s exile march from the city, Daerycil Belsor, High Warden of the Averchai, had caught her at Tar-Numerath and thrown her into Gloryngael’s dungeons. Avery had never thought to see her again until the God-Emperor had inexplicably released her after two tendays below.

He had been anxious to speak with Hermyna after her release, but Averchai had dogged her every step, making contact impossible. She’d returned to her apartment in Old Town only to find it completely ransacked and afterward, she’d wandered the Plaza of Golden Domes begging for food. Finally, this very afternoon, Pel’s men had managed to sneak her into his villa. After a hot meal, a bath and donning fresh robes, she’d come to The Golden Whale with the easterner. As to her stay in Gloryngael, so far she’d kept the story to herself and he would respect her privacy.

He held high a wine-filled goblet. My friends, let us toast. Tonight is the beginning of something special. Tonight the resistance is truly born. Raise your glasses and drink with me! May the Maiden’s kiss bless you. For Hali! For Sangrithar!

Each raised a goblet and swore. May the Maiden’s kiss bless you. For Hali! For Sangrithar!

He remained standing and tapping his wooden leg against the stone floor. He rumpled his nose, a habit of his when he was worried. Until now, we have each done what we could to prepare for Hali’s return, but now we must work together. We do not know when he will return, or what forces will ride at his back. We do not know what trials we will face here in Sangrithar, but face them we must. The God-Emperor falls deeper into madness, Prince Talmynar grows ever more ambitious and Belsor’s Averchai rain ever more terror.

But we cannot let this deter us! We must pave the way for Hali. He will return. He will come back to Sangrithar and bring down the God-Emperor! The time has come for their reign to end. Torval has abused the trust given him and led Sangrithar down the path of ruin. The God-Emperor must fall and Hali will bring him down.

His gaze swept across the table. You are the leaders of the resistance. Each of you is here for a reason and together, we will form a threat the God-Emperor must reckon with. Most of you know one another, except for Tomello here.

He pointed to the scoundrel, who took his feet off the table and pushed the hair away from his face.

Padiera gasped. I know you! You look older now, but you’re him. You’re the thief who took my purse that day in the Plaza. Her voice trailed off. The day that I met …

Tomello sprang from his chair, landed in front of her and bowed formally. That it was, my lady, that it was, and I am at your service. Now, I have no wish to see such a fair lass so sad. Can’t I cheer you up?

Padiera straightened. I’m sorry. What we’re here for is important. My problems aren’t. Go on.

Not so fast, Tomello grinned. Tell me what’s putting that frown on your pretty face.

I said you can move on, she repeated firmly.

Tomello leaned against the wall and smirked. I think not, my lady. Not until you tell me what troubles you.

She turned her back on him. Avery, make him stop!

If anyone could bring a smile to her face, it was Tomello. That’s why he’d asked the rogue to deliver the news. I think you’ll have to do as he says, Padiera. I’ve known him a long time and he’s a pretty stubborn chap.

Well so am I! she declared.

Tomello went down on bended knee. Please, my lady, I beg of thee. A humble thorn in the service of Glorianna the Rose, I lay myself at your feet. Tell me what beast hath wounded thy broken heart so I may slay it and rescue you from peril.

He would pay much to watch Tomello perform on stage. Orvandal, who also knew the truth, smiled also, until noticing Hermyna’s disapproving frown. Celle looked ready to explode.

Crack! Padiera slapped Tomello’s cheek. Leave me alone!

The rogue realized he’d pushed things to far. My apologies, Padiera. I did not mean to upset you. In fact –

He stamped his wooden leg against the floor. This was getting out of hand. All right, everyone.

Padiera took a deep breath. No, I should apologize. Tomello was just trying to make me feel better. You’re really quite good, you know. It’s just that I … I lost someone recently. Someone I cared for, even though we’d just met. We barely knew each other and now … now we’ll never get the chance.

Oh … you never know, said Tomello. Stranger things have happened.

Padiera held back her tears. He’s dead. I saw him die on Legionnaire’s Day … during the Grush run. You were there, Signor Orvandal, and so was Avery. It happened right by your villa. Tell him.

Never mind, Tomello broke in. I was at the run and saw it happen. He was with the runners taunting the Grush, wasn’t he? The brave one who tried to ride it.

She nodded. Do we have to go through this?

Just one more question, I promise. His death … did it go something like this? Tomello sprang away and landed in a crouch. Then he pretended to taunt a Grush and stepped back as if it were charging. He reached for where its horns would be and flipped backward. Had a Grush really been there, he would have landed on its back. Then he dove towards the cellar wall, twisted in mid-air, and his back slammed against the stone.

He slumped to the ground. Padiera ran to him and pressed her hand against his cheek. No, not again. Not again.

Tomello’s eyes blinked open and he jumped to his feet. Fear not, dear Padiera, I am unharmed.

She turned to him, astonished. How did you do that? That’s exactly how Renjarro died. Exactly!

You have a well trained eye, my lady, to remember it so well. Most people pay little attention to detail, especially in times of stress, but you are correct. That is the exact sequence Renjarro used against the Grush. And how could I know, you might wonder? I know because it was me, not Renjarro, facing the Grush.

Avery, what is he talking about? Padiera demanded. She was trembling.

Renjarro is alive. Tomello took his place. He took Renjarro’s Devotee pendant from his pocket and gave it to her. He wanted you to keep this safe until he returns.

Relief flooded her face. He’s alive! Where is he? And then anger. How could you?

Away, he said, hating himself. On a vital mission.

You sent him away? she exploded. How could you? You knew … you knew we’d fallen for each other. Solare burn you, we met because of you!

His features softened. He didn’t regret his actions, but he’d never wanted to hurt her. Renjarro’s mission was vital. He needed to leave Sangrithar. Belsor is no student of the Spires, but even he’ll put two and two together … eventually.

She turned eyes on him like daggers. You’ve known all this time and you didn’t get word to me?

It’s only been five days. He knew that rang hollow, but the full truth was harsher.

Only five days? She grabbed his shoulders. Only five days! Do you know how long those five days have been?

I wanted to tell you, Padiera, I did. I promised Renjarro I would.

Then why did you wait so long? She turned to Celle. Did you know?

Tears ran down the empress’s cheeks. No, Padiera. I didn’t and I’m truly sorry for the grief they’ve put you through. It’s inexcusable.

He offered no apology. It had to be genuine. The Averchai were watching.

Pel came to his defense. If there had been any other way …

You knew too? Padiera’s rage knew no bounds. Did everyone know? Did Gestarre?

Yes. Before leaving the capitol, Renjarro waited in this very room.

Did you know? she asked Hermyna.

Before her capture, Hermyna’s smile could warm your heart, now she was distant and withdrawn. She spoke hesitantly. By the time I … was released, Renjarro was days from here, halfway to whatever mysterious destination Avery set upon him.

Padiera spun her gaze back to him. Where did you send him?

A crash sounded from the wine cellar and someone cursed. He commanded the room to silence with his finger and looked through the peephole. A young man was struggling to haul two crates upstairs and several broken wine bottles were on the floor. Avery waited until all was clear. He’s on his way to Cormane to enlist Baron Lessari’s support and train his men. From what Hali told me, there are men in Cormane willing to fight the God-Emperor and, with the Luck of Sudnar, more nobles will join the cause. Isn’t that right, Celle?

The empress leaned forward and pulled back her shawl. Even in her drab frock, she commanded everyone’s attention. Some have already declared for my brother and others’ loyalty to my husband is faltering. Soon I will put them to the test and they will not find the empress’s charms easy to resist.

He locked gazes with Padiera. We are not alone. Many are dissatisfied by how low the God-Emperor has brought our once-proud empire. Like us, they wish for a change. Like us, they would do whatever it takes to bring him down.

Each of us fights for a reason. Each of us fights for Sangrithar’s freedom in our own way, Renjarro no less than any of us. He knows why we fight and chose to join us. Would you have him throw that away? Would you still love him if he were the kind of man who could?

She wept open tears of shame. No, I would not, though I miss him with all my heart.

I know. He had to push on. This gathering was a turning point and needed a strong hand. He sat down. Now that we’ve settled that, let’s get on with it. What do we know so far?

Wellll… drawled Tomello, Ritteman told the God-Emperor that Hali had perished in the Averchai ambush, but we know that isn’t true. We also know that the God-Emperor knows it’s not true, yet publicly he proclaimed Hali dead. Prince Talmynar has taken a dark-haired beauty as his new concubine and has been particularly edgy of late. My instinct tells me he’s up to something.

I’ve been watching him and you’re right. said Celle. I told Avery my suspicions.

Keep an eye on him, my lady, said Tomello. We need to know what he’s planning and you’re our best option.

Celle shuddered. I will tell you whatever I learn, but I won’t spend one more second near my son than I have to. I loathe him.

I quite understand, my lady. The Prince would not be my first choice for company either. Out west, we’ll have those who muster in Cormane – Lessari’s men and Djen’s from Umbari province at a minimum. As far as the legions are concerned … Avery?

"Most of the infantry will follow me. The cavalry and navy may not be out of reach, but will take some effort. Auberc has a hold on High Warden Fagan that will be hard to break. As