"What do they want Poznor?" Corvul asked to his subordinate stepping out of the closet still stark naked.
"It is from Tulinda milord, "said Poznor attempting to avert his gaze as much as possible. "It didn't say what the purpose of the meeting is, but she wants to meet as soon as possible today."
Corvul smirked in jubilation at the request. "Even though I hate that cold bitch, I'm never one to keep a lady waiting. Send word across to Deep Ridge at once that I'll meet her in two hours." Corvul stepped back into his closet, in the process shouting back to Poznor. "One last thing as well Poznor, while I’m gone get whatever her name is out of the bathroom, she's been in there forever."
"Yes milord," said Poznor as he backed out of the room shutting the door behind him.
* * *
"What is the meaning of all this?"
Gunvold turned towards the source of the voice and saw Tulinda storming up from behind him with her cadre of guards. Overnight her personal escort had grown to match her new position as guild master of the geomancers. Duvold had abdicated the position due to his ascension to emperor and there was no real option besides Tulinda to take control of the geomancers. Gunvold sat on a wooden log in front of a roaring fire; all around him soldiers and wagons were moving at a frantic pace building fortified walls and watch towers around the Juxton entrance to Armistan.
"I go back to Juxon City for a few days and all of a sudden we receive reports that you're preparing for war?!" Normally appearing blank and emotionless, Tulinda couldn't help but yell at the grand champion before her. "What are you thinking Gunvold? You are to cease this at once! The last thing we need at this moment is you starting a war via antagonistic actions with the only people who may be able to help us!"
Gunvold grinned and went back to calmly wiping Goredallion down with a rag. The pitch blackness of the massive war mace reflected the bright light from Aun high above. "You need to get better information or at least open your eyes more guild master. I'm not preparing to start a war; I'm just doing my job and protecting the United Tribes."
Tulinda was furious, she could barely contain her rage and she knew that Gunvold was aware of that fact. Tulinda could feel the ground slightly shifting under her feet. She wasn't doing it on purpose; rather her rage was so powerful it was manifesting itself in the very dirt. "You are going to start a war you idiot! Look across the Tempest Path, what do you see? I'll tell you what you see, the same damn thing you've seen every day for two thousand years. The Phlebos have had no troop movements whatsoever; they aren't going to attack us. The people are on pins and needles due to the blight currently affecting us and now you go and begin massive preparations for war. Not only are your actions going to be viewed as hostile by the Red Empire, but you are terrifying your own people even more."
"I know there aren't troop movements in Aun's Light," said Gunvold calmly, not even looking at Tulinda, "but war is coming, especially when you send your runner across shortly to speak to the Phlebos. Your meeting with Corvul will be the beginning of the end. Corvul will pass along word to Mielor who will see what she’s long been hoping for – a sign of weakness. It's funny that Duvold's first act as emperor will be to unintentionally begin a war."
The ground stopped its subtle shifting and Tulinda looked genuinely surprised. "How do you know about the messenger requesting a meeting with Corvul? I haven’t briefed you on that and the runner just arrived today from Juxon City."
Gunvold stood up and slung Goredallion around his back. He towered over the small geomancer and had a condescending grin spread across his face. "I know you may think of me as a brutish fellow, but I hear a lot of things and have far more friends than you think guild master. The tribes are in disarray, but you cannot see it yet because you've been so sheltered. Thunvold kept us together more than anything else. As for Duvold - well Duvold is an ignorant book worm who doesn't have many friends."
Tulinda quickly glanced behind her and addressed her escort. "Guards, leave us immediately, meet me at the entrance to Armistan in ten minutes." Without a word her protectors went into motion and began heading towards the neutral town. Tulinda's eyes narrowed and never left Gunvold's gargantuan frame. "Are you suggesting treason is being plotted?"
Gunvold turned and began slowly walking east with Tulinda by his side towards the bridge. All around them was a cacophony of bodies in a frantic rush, yet everyone gave the guild master and grand champion a wide birth, as if a sea were parting for them. Gunvold spoke calmly and methodically looking straight ahead. "Of course not my dear, while I along with many others may not like Duvold, we are sworn to serve him. I'm more worried about the masses, if they lose faith in our new emperor then - well I don't want to think about that."
"What are you saying Gunvold?" Tulinda was keeping pace with the grand champion but she had to take multiple steps to keep up with his long stride.
"I didn't want to bring it up but," Gunvold hesitated for a moment, "if things don't improve soon some of us fear a revolution. If the ignorant and spineless worms of these lands aren't given an answer soon, or if they become too unhappy, they might rebel. If an open rebellion were to ever occur then many of us, myself included, would be in an awkward position."
"First," began Tulinda, "the idea of a revolution is ludicrous. Secondly, even if it were to happen, are you legitimately saying you would fight against the emperor? That in and of itself is treasonous."
Gunvold stopped walking and turned to Tulinda, a concerned looking gracing his face. "I didn't say anything of the sort, I merely suggested that the decision may not be as black and white as you think. Besides, as you said, I doubt a revolution will happen. It would take some truly terrible events to spark such a rebellion."
Tulinda didn't say a word but eyed the Behemoth suspiciously. Gunvold continued speaking to try and assuage the doubt Tulinda appeared to have. "I see the look in your eyes Tulinda. You don't know if you can trust my words or not. You can be sure I am not deceiving you. Whether or not a rebellion occurs, we need to be preparing for the war that most certainly is coming. Mielor is unstable and hates us almost as much as I hate her along with all the vile maggots that inhabit the south. She, not I, will make the first move for war. All I'm doing is preparing for the inevitable."
Tulinda shook her head in disagreement, her suspicion being replaced by sadness. "You are not the only one who hears things Gunvold, and I think my sources are more reliable than yours. I've heard no rumblings of anger towards Duvold nor is there any indication whatsoever of a Phlebos assault. You are so far gone Gunvold, I don't know what to do to help you. I never know whether to hate you or pity you." Tulinda reached up and gently placed her hand on Gunvold's chest. "I won't fight you on these defenses, but I will and must inform Duvold of them. Be warned though that he may make you take them down. If you are lying, and if you are erecting these defenses to start a war, then I think you will be sorely disappointed. Our brothers and sisters to the south are more rational than you, thank Nua."
Gunvold abruptly brushed her hand away and scowled. "When the war comes and Goredallion is covered in the blood of the Phlebos, then I will accept your apology. You will come to me on your hands and knees thanking me for my defense of the fatherland. Then you will know humility and see the error of your ways."
Tulinda quietly responded to the Behemoth's words. "I hope one day you find humility grand champion."
"Those with the strength of will to do what must be done have no need for humility," said the Behemoth coldly to his former wife. "The day that humility finds me is the day that I die in combat. Until then this is my world to forge and protect."
Gunvold turned and walked off ahead of Tulinda shoving past anyone unfortunate enough to be caught in his way. Tulinda merely stood back and watched Gunvold thunder off towards Armistan.
* * *
At the center of the bridge over the Tempest Path lay Armistan. It was an exceedingly small town with no permanent inhabitants. A grand total of five buildings resided at the c
enter of the bridge, four small trading posts were positioned so that they formed a square and in the center of said square was a large one room hall. The only furniture in the large center structure was a long table with accompanying chairs. This building was dubbed the Hall of Peace when it was created. The hall was the official meeting location for delegates of the Red Empire and the United Tribes. Rarely were meetings held at the Hall of Peace but on days when they were, trading in Armistan was shut down. Normally this only happened once or twice a year; so for it to happen twice within almost a month was unheard of.
Corvul slowed his horse to a trot a hundred feet from the Hall of Peace and eyed the Tormos royal guards waiting outside. Behind Corvul rode Poznor and two Phlebos soldiers. The commander smoothly dismounted from his horse and strolled towards the Tormos soldiers. Corvul was dressed in full regalia, his steel plated armor tinged with gold filigree sparkling in the Southern Sun's bright light. The Tormos royal guard out in front briefly nodded his head towards the door, telling Corvul without a word to enter the Hall of Peace. The handsome Phlebos came to a brief stop and eyed the Tormos soldier in front of him which was likewise dressed in steel plate armor but with the snarling wolf visor pulled down. The commander shouted over his shoulder to Poznor who remained with the horses and two soldiers that had accompanied him. "Wait here Poznor, this won't take long I imagine."
Walking past the royal guards, he glanced them each over one last time and playfully toyed with the silent sentinels. "Talkative chaps aren't you all?"
The Tormos soldiers didn't acknowledge his comment, each continuing to stare at him through their visors as he walked past and up the short stairs to the hall. Corvul threw open the double doors to the Hall of Peace and was greeted with the echoing sound of the doors bouncing off the walls of the interior and then swinging back shut. The large hall was empty save Tulinda, hidden away in her voluminous geomancer robes, and Gunvold. Tulinda sat in a chair towards the middle of the table. Gunvold stood behind Tulinda, arms crossed, an unmoving mountain towering over the slender female Tormos. Both Tormos watched Corvul with penetrating and expressionless stares as he crossed the room. Corvul flashed them his perfect smile and sat down on the opposite side of the table across from Tulinda. The large leather chair creaked under the weight of Corvul’s muscular frame and heavy armor as he made himself comfortable.
The commander continued to smile as he relaxed in his chair and spoke to the Tormos. “I must have really done something to piss of the Three recently. I was having a particularly wonderful morning when suddenly, I get word that you two want to meet again! Now here I am, stuck in this hall on a beautiful day with the Queen of Boring and the King of Assholes."
Gunvold’s face didn’t waiver nor did he make a sound, still content to stare at Corvul. Tulinda likewise kept her expressionless stare, accustomed to the rudeness of the commander of Aun's Light. “I don't think your commentary is necessary Corvul," began Tulinda coldly. "Know I would not request a meeting unless it was urgent. Troubling events forced this under such short notice. Thunvold never returned to us after passing – he’s dead. Due to his passing, Duvold, former leader of the geomancers, has ascended the throne and is now emperor of the United Tribes.”
“I’m sorry to hear of Thunvold’s fate," said Corvul still smiling, not even trying to hide his disdain. "I imagine he's in a better place though as anywhere would be better than the cold waste land you people call home."
“Can you try to show even a shred of respect for a moment Corvul?" Tulinda hated meeting with Corvul but knew for the good of the empire she had to stay calm and collected in the face of his insults. "I’m not here to officially inform the Red Empire of Duvold’s ascension; rather I’m here to make a formal request on behalf of Duvold and the United Tribes. Thunvold is not the only Tormos to have passed and not returned. Over the last month every Tormos that has passed has failed to return. So far, by our own endeavors, we have been unable to figure out why the Three are not returning our brothers and sisters to us. As such, Duvold has requested an official meeting with Mielor to discuss these troubling occurrences if, of course, the same problem is affecting our southern siblings.”
Corvul scratched his immaculately shaven face and leaned forward, a look of exaggerated bewilderment on his face. “Unfortunately, my dear, I’m not aware of any such circumstances occurring in Aunia. What is troubling the Tormos is clearly worrisome though and I’m sure the Red Empire would be greatly interested in lending aid however we can. I will pass along word of your request to Mielor and will make you aware as soon as I hear something back.”
Tulinda continued to show no outward emotion, but within the billowing sleeves of her robes she clasped her hands. “I understand, I appreciate your –“
Gunvold suddenly spoke up even though he remained as motionless as the Patriarch Mountain. “Don’t thank this maggot for his kindness; he is clearly lying.”
Corvul unleashed his beautiful smile, all his teeth gleaming perfectly white. He let out a chuckle and shook his head. “Gunvold you are the most brilliant wordsmith I’ve ever seen, the way you string together eloquent and tactful phrases is impressive,” the sarcasm dripping from Corvul’s words.
“Don't deny it Corvul you sniveling dog," said Gunvold. "The Phlebos are experiencing the same problem we are; however, you don't have the honor to admit it."
“Look Gunvold," said Corvul indirectly as he was still looking at Tulinda when speaking. "I’m pleased to see you’re as insane as ever but I’m not lying. Why don’t you leave the room and let the rational Vesnians talk in private? Go back to building your little sandcastle defenses at Deep Ridge, ok?”
Tulinda placed her hands on the table and spoke. While her gaze was directed towards Corvul, her words were aimed at both men. “Enough, this is the Hall of Peace. I know there is no love lost between us, but these are dire times. Have respect for those who have passed never to return.”
Corvul leaned back into his chair again. “Of course, I offer my deepest apologies if I offended you at all. However, I just can’t help myself when around Gunvold, he does bring out the best in me it seems. As stated previously, I will deliver your message to the Red Empire and as soon as I hear a response I will –“
“Your slights against Tulinda and me will not go unpunished," continued Gunvold, his eyes narrowing in hatred. "We have come to you in good faith, and you disrespect us by uttering outright lies? I knew you pompous cunts would never admit that you have a problem. Go; send your little runner to that bitch of an empress. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is one message you take to her yourself. It’s well known that you are a crude and prurient creature, tell me, have you ever had Mielor or is she the one vagina that has eluded you?”
Corvul stood up and slammed his hands on the table. “How dare you insult the light of eternal lights! This time you’ve gone too far Gunvold! The Red Empire will not stand idly by while you insult our honor. We are born of Juxon’s pure blood whereas you and your filth crawled from his rotten corpse. No wonder your people were so corrupt you murdered each other. Does it feel strange antagonizing the Red Empire Gunvold? I imagine it would since your specialty has always been massacring your own people.”
Gunvold's body tightened, and his adrenaline began to pump. “Remember this moment Corvul with what little time you have left, for you have spelled your own doom.”
Gunvold with uncanny speed leapt across the table. Corvul went to draw his blade but was too slow. The Behemoth crashed into Corvul and the commander went sprawling to the floor. Gunvold raised Goredallion high, and as the mighty mace began its descent towards Corvul's skull, the ground around the two Vesnians erupted. Goredallion connected with an impossibly hard object that caused a reverberation throughout Gunvold's body. The Behemoth staggered backwards, dropping Goredallion from the shock and bumping into the large meeting table.
Gunvold shook his head to clear his mind from the jarring effect he received. The grand champion looked down and where Corv
ul once lay prone was now a dome of pure granite. He turned around and saw Tulinda lowering her hands while glaring at Gunvold. She had ripped the very stones of the bridge up through the floor of the building and formed it into a cocoon of protection around Corvul. The doors to the Hall of Peace burst open as the guards for both sides rushed in. Poznor and the Phlebos guards drew their swords when they noticed Corvul was not to be seen which resulted in the Tormos royal guards drawing their own weapons.
“All of you, stand down! Corvul is safe.” Tulinda waved her hand and the granite dome dissolved, falling away into dust, revealing Corvul unharmed who quickly crawled backwards away from Gunvold. The grand champion ignored the Phlebos commander and continued glaring at Tulinda.
The guild master of the geomancers turned and addressed Corvul who still seemed disoriented. “Leave here now! I will handle Gunvold. I beseech you to ignore the slight upon you today and deliver the word of the United Tribes which Gunvold does not speak for.”
The Phlebos guards surrounded Corvul and with their swords pointed at Gunvold, Poznor helped his superior to his feet and handed the commander his blade which had been dropped during the initial onslaught. Corvul, shaking with fury barely contained, gestured towards the Behemoth who was now grinning at the handsome Phlebos. “Seize him at once! He has broken the cardinal rule again and attempted to kill a Vesnian! His crimes must be punished!”
Tulinda calmly defused Corvul's command to his fellow Phlebos who were drastically outnumbered in the Hall of Peace by Tormos soldiers. “While I do not disagree with your anger, you have no authority here nor does your position offer you jurisdiction over Gunvold's acts. This is a neutral field, I will deal with Gunvold. Go, leave now.”
Still shaking with rage, Corvul was essentially dragged out of the building by his guards. When the double doors slammed shut Tulinda turned back towards the hulking Behemoth before her. She briefly contemplated collapsing the floor around Gunvold and having him plummet to his death, but she was not like the grand champion, she would not compulsively give into rage. This time he had gone too far though and Gunvold would atone for his sins. No longer would she stand idly by while he single-handedly drove two nations towards mutual annihilation. Gunvold's actions were beyond redemption. She pointed at Gunvold and with a calm voice that belayed her inward anger spoke: “Guards, arrest him.”
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