The Godling Chronicles The Shadow of God

chapter 29





King Halmara paced in front of the jeweled throne of his forefathers, glancing angrily at the door every time he turned. The throne room was cold and empty, and rarely used. For generations the well-being of his kingdom was navigated from the king’s office, and the council chambers. This room was for receiving honored guests, and nothing more. The walls bore the banners of the twelve kingdoms, with the eagle and fish symbol of Skalhalis hanging proudly above the throne. His family had ruled for more than four hundred years. Now folly could end everything. Lord Sialo sat in a plush chair to the right side of the throne, watching the king carefully.

“You should relax, your highness,” said Sialo. “Things are going according to plan.”

Halmara stopped and turned on Sialo. “Is that so? In what way was the poisoning of King Lousis, part of the plan?”

“I told you that I had nothing to do with it,” said Sialo. “It was Yanti that gave the order.”

“Then Yanti is a fool,” he roared. “And when I see him—“

The door flew open. Yanti strode in confidently. “You will do what?” He laughed. “My good king, nothing has been done that wasn't according to my design.”

Halmara snarled. “Your idiocy has ensured that the other kingdoms will surely align against me. They probably gather as we speak.”

Yanti stopped. His eyes grew dark and threatening. “Mind your tongue...highness, or you may find your long reign become a fleeting moment. I have enough soldiers to crush Althetas. They cannot muster enough of a force in time to stop us.”

“I will not be intimidated by you.” Halmara's voice wavered.

“I do not try to intimidate,” said Yanti. “I only want you to know your situation. You are a vassal of Angrääl, and will bend to the will of the Reborn King. And his will, is what I tell you it is.” He leveled his eyes. “Are we clear about this, your highness?”

Halmara felt as if his breath had been taken away. He fell back onto his throne and slumped down, defeated. “I still think it was a mistake to poison King Lousis.”

“I'm truly sorry, but that had to be done,” Yanti explained. “After poisoning my poor dear Salmitaya, it was an imperative.”

A messenger burst through the door and bowed low. “I bring news, your highness.” He handed King Halmara a rolled up piece of parchment. The boy bowed again and hurried away.

Halmara unrolled the parchment and read it carefully. “It would seem your attempt on King Lousis' life has failed.”

Yanti smiled, and waved his hand carelessly. “It matters not. Once the army is assembled and ready we will attend to that.” He turned to Sialo. “How go the preparations?”

“On schedule,” he replied. “Will you be staying?”

“Of course,” said Yanti. “I have learned not to leave these events unattended. Now if you will pardon me, I desire a wash and a fresh set of clothing. Please tell me this place is civilized enough to possess a shower.”

The king didn't bother to respond. He rose, led Yanti to the door and instructed the guard to show him to his chambers.

“You should be careful, your highness,” warned Sialo. “The Reborn King puts a great deal of faith in Yanti's judgment. You should maintain a pleasant relationship with him.”

King Halmara returned to his throne. He rubbed his finger along the cushioned chair arms, and wondered how long he would be allowed to sit here. King Lousis had been right. But it was too late now.