The Fireseed Wars

Prince Kyphanes rose to his feet. "While it will be helpful to have one of Kalvan's great generals among our own, we need a leader who will command obedience from all our men. A man such as Prince Vython, who is related by blood to Great King Demistophon. As Prince of Agrys, he will bring the largest army in the Kingdom and his weight will sway even those who are not fully committed to our cause."

"How say you, fellow Princes?"

All the Princes, including the three who had voted for Hestophes, raised their arms. Hestophes knew it was a done deal despite the red that showed on Xentos' face.

Xentos turned to him, whispering, "I fear if we challenge them on this question, the whole plan will unravel. You are not known to the Princes, nor do they believe in Kalvans infallibility after his retreat from Hos-Hostigos. I know in my heart that you are the best commander, and the only one who has fought our foes. Your time will come later."

Hestophes was both relieved and stymied. He didn't want to command later, because if there was a "later" it would only be after the League's Army had gone down in defeat.

Xentos banged the table with his staff. "It is now agreed by the full Council of Dralm in the Moon of Long Grass that Prince Vython, Prince of Agrys, will be the Grand Commander of the League of Dralm's Army. All praise the Allfather for his wisdom and expediency!"

"Praise Allfather Dralm," echoed all those seated at the Council Table.

"Time is our enemy," Xentos continued. "Grand Master Soton and his army are already at the City Gates. Prince Vython, tell the Council what men and supplies the Army of Dralm will require."

III

Hestophes, with two of his bodyguards, and Primate Xentos were seated in one of the castle's lesser chambers. During the Council, at the Primate's recommendation, they had appointed Duke Mnestros, the only Agrysi at the table who had fought in the Fireseed War, as second-in-command. That had not been a popular decision among the Agrysi Princes, who all believed their princely titles made them eligible for command, but Prince Clytos of Glarth's support had made the difference.

"Primate, it is good to see you."

"And you, as well, Captain-General Hestophes. I'm sorry that these foolish men do not listen to the Allfather's commands. I fear we shall all pay for their folly."

"I am not surprised by their reluctance; after all, I am an outlander and one of Kalvan's generals. I've learned a lot of things, both in victory and defeat."

"It often takes adversity to bring out the best in a man. And, I know that Hostigos has seen a great deal of trouble since I was last there. Some of which may be rightfully laid at my hearth. Would I be wrong to say that I believe I am no longer in the good graces of Great King Kalvan and Queen Rylla?"

Hestophes tried to think of a way to honeycoat his words, but none came to mind. "No, you would not be wrong, Primate. Great King Kalvan remains disappointed that you were unable to marshal support for Hostigos from the League, while Queen Rylla believes you have betrayed your people and your office."

Xentos cleared his throat, then looked down at the marble flooring. "I would expect no less. There is much truth in her words, although in my defense I will say that I have always believed I was doing the Will of Dralm. However, it must also be said that the Allfather's Will is not always easy for mortal men to discern."

Hestophes replied, "Everyone-even the Great King-finds it difficult to live up to Great Queen Rylla's expectations. However, I am certain that Their Majesties would approve of your actions here today. Kalvan himself asked me to seek out your support for the war against Styphon's House."

"Praise Dralm, Hestophes. You are a good man and a worthy captain-general in the eyes of man and gods. The League will come to rue the day they passed you over and placed command of the League's Army in Prince Vython's hands. Politics often reigns over good judgment. Regardless, I fear we are already too late to save Agrys City."

Hestophes nodded. "That is true. The Styphoni Fleet owns the harbor. Grand Master Soton has learned much these past four years and will breach the walls of Agrys City even if it takes him an entire campaign season. Our best hope is to gather our forces quickly and march on the City before it falls, when his army is most vulnerable. Even should he sack and hold the City, Soton will find it much harder to subdue the countryside. As Kalvan would say, 'we will dog his every step and bite him in the arse at every bend."'

Xentos smiled wryly. "I miss those carefree days when Hostigos only had Gormoth of Nostor and Sarrask of Sask as enemies. I have always enjoyed Their Majesties' company. Now, Gormoth and my old friends Ptosphes and Harmakros are dead, and, miracle of miracles, Sarrask is now one of Kalvans paladins!" He shook his head in befuddlement as though confused by the will of the gods. "And, for now, the moment of our salvation is in uncertain hands."