Stellar Cloud: A short story collection

by Charity Bradford

  By the time the cheering calmed enough for Werner to continue, Jaron stood directly in front of the platform.

  "We will begin with a series of minor assaults to keep the Royalists busy. I need three volunteers."

  Jaron called out. "I volunteer!"

  Others called out, until once again the room echoed with the impassioned voices of the Signum. Jaron watched Werner study him. He wondered what rubric the man used to size him up. He stretched his mind and touched Werner's. The older man saw a twenty something, scruffy and disheveled man with tattoos peeking out of his shirt cuffs and collar. This image must have pleased him, because Werner reached down and took Jaron by the hand, inviting him onto the platform. Two other robed men also chose volunteers.

  As Werner turned to the crowd to present the three men, Jaron noticed Ruin glaring at him from the side.

  "Here are our champions! We will begin at the University in Joharadin."

  As the crowd applauded and yelled, Jaron's blood ran with the fire of anticipation. His plan was working beautifully.