Part 1
A hush fell over Podem's great hall as Bishop Ardan's warning echoed in the rafters. The war council sat in uneasy silence. Men who had faced steel and siege without flinching now traded anxious glances at the mention of unnatural darkness in Arinthia.
"We may face a demonic force—ancient and fell. This is no mere political revolt, but heresy and sorcery entwined. The very fabric of reality may be twisted by such dark magic," Ardan continued, his deep voice solemn.
He slowly made the sign of the Spirit across his chest, and a murmur rippled through the assembly. General Lucen clenched his jaw, the scar on his cheek blanching. Some of the more pious nobles whispered hurried prayers; others looked to Emperor Simon, worry carved deep on their weathered faces.
The supernatural element changed everything. What had been a tactical discussion of dividing forces against conventional threats now carried a different weight. If demonic powers truly held sway in Arinthia, traditional military wisdom might prove woefully inadequate.
Gradually, as if drawn by invisible threads, the council's attention shifted to Selene, standing with ethereal stillness near the great doors. Even at this early hour, she commanded reverence—the manifestation of divine will made visible. Her wings caught the torchlight, casting shifting shadows on the ancient stone walls, and more than one lord made the sign of the Spirit reflexively. Here, in the presence of what they believed was heaven's emissary, the supernatural threat seemed less insurmountable.
James felt the familiar tingling in his mind that heralded Seraphina's presence. Well, well, her voice purred with amusement, quite the supernatural predicament you've stumbled into. Fortunately, Selene can cover the distance between Arinthia and Podem in under two hours of flight. You should suggest the Emperor lead the Arinthia expedition himself, with Selene's protection, of course, while you stay behind to assist Bisera.
You want me to recommend that Simon go personally? James thought back, surprised.
Oh, darling James, Seraphina's mental voice dripped with theatrical amusement. Let the Emperor have his moment of glory while you and the brilliant General Bisera coordinate the real defenses at Podem.
And the supernatural threat? James pressed. If there really is demonic influence—
That's precisely why Selene should accompany the Emperor, Seraphina interrupted smoothly. With some help, my android can handle whatever the Mistress throws at them, and I'll have her fly back regularly to check on you. Think of it as the best of both worlds—the Emperor gets divine protection for his mission, and you get to play strategic mastermind with your favorite general.
Before James could formulate a retort, Emperor Simon spoke, his young voice cutting through the murmurs. "We have not forgotten the supernatural threat, Your Grace." Simon paused, his young face uncertain as he glanced at the imposing angel-figure.
The hall held its collective breath. This was the moment—the decision that would shape their response to two existential threats.
James rose from his place. All eyes turned to him—the foreign mage whose counsel had proven valuable time and again. "Your Majesty, if I may..." He bowed respectfully, gathering his thoughts. The weight of his next words pressed upon him. "The supernatural threat in Arinthia demands supernatural response. Lady Selene's presence would be invaluable against any demonic forces that guard the capital."
"Go on," Simon encouraged, leaning forward with genuine interest.
"I would recommend your personal leadership of the expedition as it would serve two crucial purposes," James continued, his voice gaining confidence. "First, it demonstrates that the rightful Emperor has not abandoned his capital. This alone may strengthen loyalist resolve and weaken the usurper's claim. Second, Lady Selene's divine protection would shield you from whatever dark magic the rebels have unleashed."
Murmurs of consideration rippled through the assembly. The logic was sound, if audacious.
"And the defense of Podem?" General Lucen asked pointedly. "If the Emperor leads the expedition, who commands here?"
General Serko turned to address the older general. "General Bisera's tactical brilliance has been proven repeatedly. With the combined expertise of myself, the Great Mage, and the other commanders remaining here, Podem's defenses would be in capable hands." He paused, then added carefully, "The Great Mage's... unique knowledge... might serve better in supporting defensive preparations here as he had already participated in a few battles against the Gillyrians."
The hall held its breath as Selene turned her luminous gaze upon James. When she spoke, her voice carried the crystalline clarity of celestial choirs. "I shall follow James's counsel in this matter."
A collective gasp went through the assembly. The notion that a divine being would defer to mortal counsel struck many as both humbling and profound.
Selene continued with mechanical precision, "My calculations indicate that accompanying His Imperial Majesty addresses the direct supernatural threat in Arinthia while my flight speed allows for rapid response to Podem within 1.7 hours should emergency arise. Additionally, James's capabilities would significantly enhance the defensive preparations here."
The specificity of this divine pronouncement left the council speechless. Even General Serko blinked in wonder at such otherworldly travel speed.
"The lady speaks wisdom," Bishop Ardan intoned, finding his voice first. "Divine intervention where dark magic holds sway. It is... fitting."
Emperor Simon straightened in his chair, youth giving way to imperial bearing. "Then it is decided. I shall lead the expedition to Arinthia, with Lady Selene's protection against supernatural threats." His voice gained strength as he spoke, royal authority flowing through him. "This is not merely a military campaign, but a spiritual war against the very darkness that would corrupt our realm."
General Lucen nodded slowly, accepting the logic. "Princess Saralta's steppe cavalry will serve as the vanguard of our expeditionary force. My heavy cavalry will form the main striking force. Together with your personal guard, we'll have sufficient strength to break through whatever forces hold the capital."
"And the speed will be crucial," Bisera added, her tactical mind already working through the implications. "The longer the rebel forces control Arinthia, the deeper their demonic ally can sink her claws into our institutions. A swift strike before her power consolidates..."
"Exactly," James said, feeling pieces click into place. "While Your Majesty liberates the capital, General Bisera coordinates our defenses against Alexander's approaching army. With Lady Selene serving as aerial courier between forces..."
"We maintain tactical unity despite geographical separation," Serko finished, appreciation dawning in his weathered eyes. "The old problem of divided armies—solved by divine intervention."
Saralta, who had been listening with characteristic directness, spoke up. "My riders can get you to Arinthia through paths many won't know exist. The mountain passes will slow conventional armies, but steppe ponies are bred for such terrain."
"How quickly can we reach the capital?" Simon asked, practical concerns reasserting themselves.
"With my riders leading the way, avoiding main roads..." Saralta traced a path on the map with her dagger. "Five days to reach striking distance. Six at most."
"And Alexander's approach?" the Emperor asked, turning to Bisera.
"Our scouts place his main force still ten days distant," she replied. "Your expedition could reach Arinthia and deal with the usurpation before the siege starts here."
Simon nodded slowly, the decision crystallizing. "Then it is settled. I lead the expedition to liberate Arinthia. General Bisera commands our defenses here at Podem." He looked around the hall, meeting each general's gaze. "Princess Saralta leads our vanguard, General Lucen our cavalry strength. Lady Selene provides divine protection. James remains here to coordinate intelligence and assist our defensive preparations."
The formal pronouncement rang with authority. The council that had begun in debate now focused on implementation.
"General Bisera," the Emperor said formally, his young voice carrying across the stone chamber. "In my absence, I entrust the defense of Podem to your capable hands. Will you accept this responsibility?"
Bisera stood, her armor catching the torchlight as she moved to face the Emperor directly. Around them, the hall fell silent—this was no mere military appointment, but the passing of supreme authority in Podem during the Emperor's absence.
Bisera approached the ground before the emperor and lowered herself completely to the stone floor, forehead touching the cold marble in the traditional gesture of absolute submission before imperial authority.
"Your Imperial Majesty," she began, her voice steady despite the magnitude of this trust, "I accept this sacred charge upon my honor and life. Podem shall not fall while breath remains in my body. I swear this before the Universal Spirit and all the holy archangels."
A priest came forward bearing a velvet cushion upon which rested the imperial staff of command. Simon lifted the staff with reverent formality.
"Receive this staff of imperial authority, General Bisera," he proclaimed, placing it in her hands as she rose to her knees. "As supreme commander of Podem's defenses, you shall command in our name."
"Rise, General," he commanded. "Let all present witness: in my absence, her word shall carry the weight of imperial decree in Podem when it comes to military matters. Any who challenge her authority commit treason against the throne itself."
Bishop Ardan stepped forward, bearing sacred oil with which he anointed Bisera's forehead in the sign of the Spirit, completing the sacred investiture of command.
As Bisera rose, several of the older nobles shifted uncomfortably. Such great power given to a foreign-born woman. Yet her record of victories and the desperate nature of their circumstances spoke louder than prejudice, and none dared voice objection in the presence of both the Emperor and divine witness.
General Serko stepped forward, his weathered face creasing into approval. "General Bisera has my complete support and counsel. Together, we shall hold these walls against whatever comes." His endorsement, carrying the weight of decades of military experience, settled any lingering doubts.
"And mine," a few other commanders chimed in, their voices fierce with conviction. "The troops have seen her lead from the front. They'll follow her to hell itself."
Other officers added their voices, a chorus of acceptance that filled the hall. Even General Lucen, despite his earlier caution about dividing forces, nodded respectfully to Bisera. Whatever reservations he might harbor about the unorthodox command structure were swept aside by necessity and Bisera's proven capabilities.
Emperor Simon surveyed his war council with satisfaction. The supernatural threats had been addressed, commands assigned, and sacred oaths taken. "The disposition of forces is decided. We shall set out as soon as the preparations are complete."
He paused, looking to James. "Great Mage, while I would welcome your presence, I concede that your wisdom is indeed most needed here. The unique perspective you bring to defensive planning..." He let the sentence hang, acknowledging what they all understood but couldn't quite voice—that James's special abilities and blessings might prove crucial against conventional siege warfare.
James bowed deeply. "It is my honor to be able to serve alongside General Bisera. I will coordinate our intelligence resources and assist her in any way possible."
"Then let us proceed," Simon declared, his voice carrying the ring of destiny. "Maps, timeline, supply requirements—let everything be perfect. We face both earthly armies and supernatural darkness. Only meticulous preparation and divine favor will see us through."
The council erupted into busy activity. Saralta immediately clustered with several captains around the terrain maps, her fingers tracing mountain passes and hidden paths. General Lucen began calculating cavalry supply requirements with his quartermaster. Bishop Ardan moved through the ranks, already organizing the blessing of weapons and armor against demonic influence.
As the great hall buzzed with renewed purpose, James caught Bisera's eye across the organized chaos. She gave him the slightest nod—acknowledgment of his counsel and perhaps relief that he wouldn't be riding into supernatural danger. The moment was brief but meaningful, a private communication in the midst of imperial business.
Part 2
The morning sun climbed higher as Podem transformed into a hive of activity. In the western courtyard, Saralta's riders checked and rechecked their composite bows, the distinctive layered construction of horn, sinew, and wood designed for deadly accuracy from horseback. Their mounts—sturdy steppe horses with shaggy winter coats—stamped impatiently as riders adjusted their felt saddle pads and leather bridles, the animals' breath forming small clouds in the cool morning air.
Near the stables, Vakerian heavy cavalry prepared their warhorses. These strong mounts, sturdier than the steppe horses but still agile, could carry armored warriors into battle. Young servants hurried between them, polishing scale armor and adjusting the felt and leather coverings that would protect the horses from arrows and spear thrusts.
James found himself thrown back into a familiar role, but with new purpose. Rather than preparing to travel, he spent the morning coordinating with various defensive units, his notebook filling with sketches and calculations. Engineers showed him the positioning of stone-throwing mangonels, while healers sought his advice on organizing the treatment of wounded according to the principles he'd taught them.
"Feeling relieved?" Bisera appeared at his elbow. The morning light caught copper threads woven into her woolen mantle, making her appear almost ethereal despite the practical military garb.
"Surprisingly, yes," James admitted. "For one thing, I can actually be useful here."
Bisera's rare smile warmed her usually stern features. "You're useful everywhere, James. But I'm selfishly glad you'll be here to help coordinate our defenses. And..." she lowered her voice, "I would have worried incessantly if you'd ridden into Arinthia."
"The feeling is mutual," he said softly. "Though with Selene's protection, I shall worry less about the Emperor's safety."
They walked together toward the main courtyard, where Emperor Simon was addressing his personal guard. The young ruler had abandoned ceremonial silk for practical field armor—layered iron scales sewn onto a leather backing, designed for movement rather than display, with a simple golden circlet identifying his imperial status.
"Will she really be able to fly back and forth between here and Arinthia?" Bisera asked, watching Selene standing quietly behind the Emperor, her presence greatly enhancing Simon's authoritative aura.
"If anyone can, it's her," James replied.
Then, Saralta approached, the small bronze bells on her battle braids announcing her presence before she spoke. "Are you two planning defense strategies or making meal plans?" Her grin was warm but knowing. "Because I'll need to know the watch patterns before I leave."
Despite himself, James laughed. "Defense strategies, Princess. Though breaking bread after would be welcome—assuming any of us has time to eat."
"Time is something we make, mage," Saralta replied with uncharacteristic philosophy. Her expression turned serious. "Watch over our dear General while I'm gone. Someone needs to make sure she actually rests between battles."
Bisera's lips twitched with suppressed amusement. "I have survived many campaigns without your sage advice, Princess."
"But none with your mage to worry about," Saralta pointed out. "That changes things, doesn't it?"
The comment earned her sharp looks from both James and Bisera, but Saralta only winked before sauntering off to check her horse's tack.
Later, as the expedition formed up with military precision, James found himself positioned on the wooden battlements beside Bisera and General Serko. From here, they could observe the departing force while maintaining oversight of Podem's defense preparations.
Emperor Simon took position at the front, flanked by his personal guard in their distinctive red wool cloaks with silver-edged borders. Selene positioned herself high above, her wings flapping in uniform rhythm sending whispers of awe through the ranks.
General Lucen's heavy cavalry formed the main body, their long spears pointed skyward like a forest of ash shafts. Saralta's steppe riders spread out to either side, their fur-lined leather armor and distinctive pointed felt caps marking them as outsiders even as they integrated seamlessly with the imperial force.
Bishop Ardan moved through the ranks one final time, dispensing blessings and distributing silver amulets. Each warrior received a tiny medallion stamped with the star of the Universal Spirit, blessed to ward off demonic influence.
As the column prepared to move, James watched Bisera survey both the departing expedition and the fortress defenses with a commander's eye. Her bearing radiated authority and competence, and he felt a surge of pride at seeing her in full command.
Emperor Simon raised his hand for attention. "Warriors of Vakeria!" His young voice carried across the courtyard. "Today we ride to reclaim our capital from darkness. We go not as conquerors, but as liberators. May the Universal Spirit guide our path and the memory of our fallen strengthen our arms!"
A cheer rose from the assembled troops. Weapons raised high, catching the morning sunlight in a display of polished iron and bronze.
"Forward!" Simon commanded, spurring his horse toward the gate.
The expedition moved as one, hooves thundering on packed earth. Bisera raised her sword in salute, her face a mask of professional calm that couldn't quite hide the satisfaction of seeing a well-executed departure.
James stood beside her as Podem's massive oak gates closed behind the expedition.
They watched as the expedition disappeared over the first hill, dust from their passage the only sign of their movement.
"Well," James said, turning to face the fortress interior. "I suppose it's time to make sure this place can withstand anything Alexander throws at us."
Bisera nodded, her hand briefly touching his arm. "Together, James. We'll hold Podem until the Emperor returns victorious."
"And maybe squeeze in something more," James heard the mischievous voice of Seraphina echoing in his mind.