"Heard what Ravius?" Gavin asked.
"Karmal?" said Sadira, eyes widening, intuition flashing like lightning in her mind.
"Meady Mox tried to... rape... Karmal during the match; She killed him!" Ravius paused, taking a deep breath. "The Deliberative have her in custody, but word is they aren't going to charge her with murder. Mox's assistant saw the whole thing and is backing Karmal's story. Come on, Vintia is trying to get more information..."
It had turned out to be a bad day for Meady Mox, after all.
Chapter Nine: Camp Valorous
1141/04/25 AR, Camp Valorous, An old military town on the western border of the Domains, a training ground for the Red Faction
"Although they are both fighters, a Gladiator and a Soldier are as different as the arena is from the battlefield." Victor diTavalon, Warbound
Gavin and Sadira met with the local recruiter for the Red faction, Camille Caesaria, shortly after their fan-pleasing Deathmatch against Bella and Cat. The setting for their rendezvous was a spacious private dining room at one of the most exclusive lodges in Dreadwood, a place frequented by the elite of the Domains. Camille greeted them both by name, smiling, the perfect picture of a gracious hostess.
"I understand one of your friends is being detained by the Deliberative?" Camille’s voice was slow and sweet, like honey. She was curious about Meady Mox's death, but kept her tone light and conversational; she was not going to risk offending top prospects like these, even if she was dying with curiosity. "We can arrange another meeting if this one is inconvenient...?"
"Thank you for your consideration Madame Caesaria, but that isn't necessary at all." Sadira unconsciously adopted a tone similar to that of the platinum-haired recruiter, but her hands twitched on her lap, betraying her excitement. "Our friend Karmal will be released soon; the Deliberative is not pressing any charges against her. They are simply questioning her. It seems that the Arena Master's death was a case of self-defence."
"Others have already started to come forth, speaking about the Arena Master's abuses of power." Gavin added. "Karmal seems to be fine, as well."
Camille arched a perfectly sculpted eyebrow. She could tell that Sadira knew more than she was letting on; this, in turn, told the astute recruiter everything she needed to know. She guessed that Karmal must have been working with the Deliberative. The flame-haired Gladiatrix would be an ideal agent for investigating the corrupt, but slippery, Meady Mox. Camille doubted that Mox's death was the desired outcome for the Grey-Robes, but it was hardly a surprise. Perhaps he had discovered Karmal’s ruse and lost his temper, or maybe he had simply forgotten he was dealing with a trained killer. Mox was getting arrogant of late, too secure in his triumphs; it was not hard to see him getting stupid enough to try and bully or assault a Gladiatrix. She laughed.
"I'm sorry. I'll be honest with the both of you. I don't... didn't like Arena Master Mox." She paused, waiting for them to react, before continuing. "He was a very small minded man and his attitude toward the women who had the misfortune of having to do business with him disgusted me." Camille laughed again, loudly this time. She saw that her attitude pleased the two young Gladiators; shared hatred of Meady Mox would bring her closer to them, making them easier to recruit. "I lodged three complaints about him myself, actually. I wish I could have been there to get a kick in when the little toad finally got what he deserved. Imagine; in this day and age, when nearly half of the Chosen are women, we still have men like Mox. The fool got what he deserved, underestimating someone strong enough to snap him in half. Let us drink a toast to your friend; I hope you don't mind... Red."
Sadira laughed, finding herself quite charmed by Camille’s open, relaxed demeanour and sympathy for Karmal. By the time Camille finished pouring the rich red Bloodgrape wine, even serious-minded Gavin was grinning.
"I'll be honest with you." The truth was the best path with these two, thought wily Camille. "I was originally on my way here to recruit Bella and Cat. Gladiators of your rank with a few pairs Deathmatches under their belt are highly sought after. The Blues tend to get most of them, sad to say. I've heard you're interested in the Red Faction; after watching you in action and talking to some of my contacts in Dreadwood, I am, on behalf of the Red Faction, more than pleased to extend an offer to you. I have several placements available around the Domains; if you wish we can look them over and see what you think."
"Absolutely," said Sadira, beaming happiness. "But there is one condition; we want to form a team with our friends. That's one of the reasons we want to go with the Reds; we need a placement that can take six of us."
Camille was secretly pleased that Sadira was willing to negotiate instead of just accepting her first offer. She was also happy that she did not need to massage the girl's own ego just to recruit her, either. Neither too easy, nor too fussy, a skilled Gladiatrix with a grasp of politics would be an asset to the Faction. And of course, if she made it all the way to the top, her loyalty could pay off for Camille. She flashed another smile as she responded, "I think I can make that happen; we Reds do pride ourselves on having the best teams in the Domains, after all..." She raised her glass again, and Gavin and Sadira joined her.
-----o
The following months passed quickly. Gavin and Sadira readied themselves for their journey to Camp Valorous, a large military town on the western edge of the Domains. Their first stop, however, was the Campus Martius in the grand City of Krass for training.
Gavin was surprised at how young all the novices now seemed to him. He made sure to stop by the Registrar's office and say hello to the helpful Quickling clerk Sinti, who had helped him plan a handful of his matches. He had learned the importance of friendship since leaving the Campus, and thus made the effort to make sure to keep the few friends he had. He also considered seeking out Isabelle, and even discussed her with Sadira, but decided against this. The rest of his time was spent with Master Ironwall, learning the next rank of the Enduring Bulwark. His further training in the school taught him how to use his shield to better defend against certain spells and unusual monster attacks like fire-breath. His time at the Dojo was gruelling and often painful, but Gavin enjoyed it nonetheless. Master Ironwall's steadfast presence calmed him. His dreams were untroubled for a while. It was good to be back in the Capital, the only constant in his childhood.
Sadira, on the other hand, enjoyed the admiration and attention that the Freshies lavished on her, drinking deep of the admiration of her peers. Young Gladiatrices sought her out for advice while young Gladiators sought after her out of lust (This made Gavin uneasy, but he trusted her). The deadly, alluring Shadow-Elf was already gaining fame among her peers, even then. She decided to learn the basics of the Linebreaker School, instead of finishing her studies in the Sun and Moon. She felt that the teachings of the Linebreakers would help her fight more efficiently against multiple opponents, a real concern for a lightly clad fighter who cannot rely on the passive protection of their armour.
Their days were spent in training, but their nights were full of dancing, drinking, and socializing. Sadira made a point of joining all the revels to which she was invited, making sure to bring Gavin with her. They both enjoyed the youthful vigour and Gladiator-friendly environment of the Campus Martius; they did not need a Grey-Robe escort and were surrounded by other Gifted who shared their interests. They also grew more comfortable in each other's company, enjoying the privacy of the little apartment which they rented. Ravius joined them after a few weeks. The months in Krass passed quickly.
-----o
Gavin made sure to return to Master Ironwall's humble Dojo on the day he left to journey west. The old dwarf was glad to see him, as always; he took tea, Earthroot, of course, with the young Gladiator. Their conversation drifted over many topics, from the recent changes allowing metals of previously banned alloys to be used in the arena, to the plight of the poor in the Domains of Rathshire and Volcanus. As the day grew long, Ironwall sensed that his pupil had a personal matter to discuss, but
that Gavin would need some coaxing.
"It is a harsh life we Gladiators lead Gavin. The ungifted admire us, and yet many of them still fear us because of the Reckoning and the actions of a few of our number. Our friends can quickly become our rivals. I have lost track of the number of times I have seen a Gladiator on the cusp of greatness dragged down by his own inner turmoil..." The old dwarf paused, taking a long breath. "Few of us become Grand Champions, Gavin; fewer still attain the exalted position of Chosen. Many of us become tired of the bloodshed, strife, and sorrow of the arena. Some of us choose to retire and teach our skills to those who show promise. This is not failure; I think of it as having the wisdom to seek a new path when the old way becomes the wrong way. We must be true to ourselves, not just the roles others have chosen for us."
"I understand that now," said Gavin thoughtfully. "I used to look down on those who put aside their desire to join the Chosen. But I can see now that people's paths can change as they learn and grow; it would be foolish to hold to their initial desires when they know better..."
"Quite so," said Master Ironwall, pleased to hear such a thoughtful statement from his young student. "But it is also true that some give up their dreams too easily. Your path has changed, joined to Sadira's I think, and it will change again, over time. But I sense that it is not the future that troubles you today."
"That is true, Master Ironwall. My parents were both Gladiators..." Gavin stopped, uncertainly. Children born to active Gladiators cannot stay with their parents, even ungifted progeny. The lifestyle of those who fight and die in the arena is considered improper for the raising of children. He had never met his parents and knew nothing of them, even if they still lived. "I often wish I knew what happened to them. Is there any reason why they wouldn't contact me if they still lived?"
Ironwall's focus turned inwards for a moment, thinking back to his own past. He heard all of the hurt and rejection of a sad orphan breaking in the young man's voice. He wondered how he would feel, cut off from family and clan. He wondered how much he could tell the boy, without breaking other trusts.
"Some Gladiators who choose to have children contact them when they feel they are old enough." He said. "It is easy if their children are ungifted, or choose the life of a Vassal. It is a much more delicate issue when their child becomes a Gladiator though. Our kind is full of pride and the bonds of blood are very strong. Sometimes the emotions involved when children of Gladiators meet their parents are overwhelming and lead to great upsets. You have heard the tragic tale of Odyron and Axus; I have known sons who have killed fathers and mothers who have left their daughters dead in the arena. Some feel it is better to let their warlike offspring seek their own paths. Others cannot bear the thought of a child risking death or worse in the arenas, even though they did the same. Some prefer to watch from afar and offer aid in more subtle ways. There are many reasons why your parents might not contact you, not just death or indifference. Remember this."
"I've met with some of Sadira's family," said Gavin quietly, his gaze keen. "The joy they get from each other... I wish I had something to add to that."
"You mean, aside from yourself?" The old dwarf chuckled. "Among the ungifted of my people a man or woman considers the family of their beloved more important than the actual person. It is this tradition among some cultures of humans and elves as well, part of the old ways. I don't think I like the idea. Your young Gladiatrix loves you purely for yourself, untainted by any other obligations or pressures; be glad of this Gavin. Do not squander what you have for want of what you lack."
"I never though of it that way," said Gavin, eyes distant. "I should be glad for her and happy with my friends; they are my family. Thank you, Master: your insight is profound as always."
"Thank you, student," said the old Dwarf in response. "But if the desire stays strong, then perhaps you should search for your parents one day, or learn what you can about them. Just make sure you are doing it for the right reasons and that your expectations are... realistic. If you do decide to do so, seek me out and I will assist you, if I can."
They drank tea and chatted about politics and recent arena news until Sadira arrived at the Dojo after finishing her preparations to leave. The Shadow-Elf Gladiatrix greeted Master Ironwall with a dazzling smile and bow before entering.
"I have come to collect my man, Master Ironwall," she said, mock serious.
"Alas, I was hoping you'd seen the light and decided to take up the way of the shield, young Sadira" he responded, stroking his beard in an exaggerated manner. Sadira laughed at this.
"Thank you Master Ironwall, "said Gavin, bowing. The old Dwarf could hear the younger man's gratitude in his voice; it made him glad. Sadira bowed as well as they left, all smiles and grace.
Master Ironwall bowed in return, saying a formal goodbye to his student, a little bit of ritual babble that let him cover up the sadness of another departure. He watched the young couple leave and disappear out onto the busy street outside the Dojo's courtyard; they remained in his thoughts for a long time.
-----o
Their travels took them across the breadth of the Domains this time. Camp Valorous, a military town nearly fifteen hundred miles to the west and somewhat north of Krass, was their destination. They walked; it was the best way to keep up their physical conditioning on the roads and abide with the travel restrictions on their kind. Gladiators and their Grey-Robe escorts can keep up a brisk pace on foot, since the Gifted are much less prone to fatigue and wear. Faster methods of travel are usually forbidden to Gladiators, lessons learned from rebellions long past.
They kept to the Great Western Way for the most part, that vast road that shot like an arrow from the city of Krass. The road had been built before the Reckoning, part of a series that linked important cities from all over the continent to the busy port town of Krass. It was well constructed, wide, flat, and built with robust cobbles set in heavy flowstone. It was straight whenever possible, and the feats of magic that were required to bend or break the landscape to allow this were still evident, centuries later. When the Chosen and their armies had expanded outwards, after the worst of the Reckoning subsided, they found the road mostly intact, and followed it in their early conquests.
After leaving Krass they passed through the broad swath of farmlands near the city itself. These were not part of any Domain, but under the governance of the people of the city. Many of the soldiers of those early campaigns had been awarded these lands, and in some cases their descendants still owned the small farms. The region was often referred to as the Promise, after the bargain the Chosen made with these first legions. Nestled among the fields of corn and wheat were numerous expensive country estates and busy rustic towns.
They were joined by Vintia as they passed back through Dreadwood; she and Ravius made for good travelling companions, cheerful and adventurous. They spent an evening in a Troll village in one of the swamps deep in the forest, where one of the Grey-Robes had business. Trolls have a great respect for the Gifted, and the chief of the village regaled the four Gladiators with tales of the many noteworthy men and women he had fought against in the arena in his youth. Gavin enjoyed their evening among the Trolls greatly; it gave him a little taste of being free to learn and explore, to see things he'd only read about.
After leaving the Dreadwood they passed into the Auran Hills, an area rich in mines and home to vast herds of sheep. The rugged hills were divided into the Domains of Chosen Balvuk Dragonsbane and Chosen Yiella Stout. They stopped for two days in the great city of Iron Bluff, where they watched a spectacular team challenge won by four Red Gladiators who held a "hill" in the arena against a horde of monsters, lasting longer than the Blue and Orange teams that followed them. They moved on to the town of Red Hills where the road divided, following the original Great Western Way along the river and further up into the mountains, instead of taking the branching road leading to the Northlands or the ominous, mountain-walled Domain of the fearsome Chosen Moltar, Volcanus.
&n
bsp; Crossing the Giant's-Teeth Mountains was not nearly as arduous for the Gladiators as it was for the other foot travellers they met on the mountain roads. The vigorous exercise was enjoyable to them; they spent much of their time in physical conditioning and the steep slopes and mountain air offered them a fresh challenge. The great jagged rock faces were impressive. The ancient stone gave off a sense of imposing permanence and yet the vistas were different each time they looked, as the sun and shadow wrought new images upon old rock.
They stopped for a week in Summit, a large city built in the heart of a Dwarven kingdom from pre-Reckoning times. Restored dwarven halls competed with newer "classical" Krassian architecture and plain stone houses throughout the city, which was jointly shared by three Domains, including that of Quickling Chosen, Jimmy Brightspark, who had carved out the rest of his Domain in the ancient tunnels under the mountains. Gavin longed to delve deep into the under-grottoes, day-dreaming of exploring the vast underground passages that once facilitated quick travel throughout the lands. Some of his favourite childhood stories were based on the exploits of Chosen Brightspark and his band of explorers.
Omodo joined them in Summit, where he had been training in the Juggernaut school, which taught him to alter his own body with the Gift, increasing in size and strength. The massive Armodon was at least three inches taller than when Gavin had seen him last. Their reunion was a joyous one; Gavin had not realized how much he missed the Armodon's presence. They were delayed in Summit for a week due to avalanche conditions, and Gavin got to explore some of the ancient ruins around the city, seeing old frescoes and reading time-ravaged scripts that detailed events from the Reckoning, before the city fell.
They descended into a wide, level plateau, a plain that was home to endless herds of various animals tended by nomads who lived in house-sized, wheeled wagons covered in bright canvas and painted wood. Then they moved up into another series of mountains, crossing several Domains in rapid succession.
Bloodlust: A Gladiator's Tale (Domains of the Chosen Book One) Page 15