Son of Solace by Mirren Hogan

Author:Mirren Hogan
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Mirren Hogan

Chapter 19

The ketoi had a proverb, likely dating back to the days of Tabius Failon. It said: those who meet in dark corners have everything to lose. Tonight proved the accuracy of the proverb.

A furtive look over his shoulder and a silent figure slipped around the corner of the Failon Palace. If guards normally patrolled here, they weren't here now. Doubtless that was a part of the plan.

"You're late." Alecshy Rusanae's voice sounded suddenly in the darkness, making him jump.

"Sorry, I had to make sure Drennan and the Berdarians were clear of the city."

"And?" Alecshy drawled.

A tip of red appeared in the darkness, followed by the smell of a Ruisul cigar. How could he smoke at a time like this?

"They're gone. By the time anyone gets word to him, it'll be too late."

Alecshy laughed softly. "I don't intend for him to be alive long enough to be a concern. Does he suspect anything?"

"Nothing, I even did what you suggested, he didn't bite. He's too honourable and loyal to the Failons.

"You're being too polite," Alecshy chided.

"You're right. He doesn't have the balls to try to take the throne himself," Yarun replied. "Even with the backing of the army and half of Chadanar."

"He'd have to get through the Home Guard first," Alecshy reminded him. "But it's a moot point, because he no longer has the army to back him up."

Yarun nodded. Callan had gone south with a hundred men, all chosen for their loyalty to the commander, but they'd find themselves outnumbered if they attempted to stop Alecshy.

"So you're keeping your word?" Yarun asked uneasily.

"I always do."

Yarun felt something pressed into his hand and smiled. His captain's knots were old and starting to fade. Brand new commander knots would compliment his black jacket nicely. That and his new position at the head of the Chadanarian army. It'd chafe serving under Alecshy, but that would only be until a new Home Guard head was appointed. Then Yarun would be forced to take orders from him, and his new king; Alecshy Rusanae.

He slipped the knots into his pocket for now. "Everyone is in place as ordered. There's one thing you should know—"

"I don't like surprises Yarun." Alecshy's voice sounded dangerous.

Of course not, what man planning to overthrow a king did?

"It was unforeseen and unavoidable," Yarun replied reasonably. Goddess, if it wasn't for the promotion—"Narran left with Callan and his men. Her brother stayed here."

Alecshy swore. "How was she allowed—never mind, we'll catch up to her later. And the rest of them. Once we're done, there will be no keref left. It's time to finishing the Cleansing, but we'll do it right this time."

Yarun had nothing specific against the keref, apart from having been raised to understand that they were dirty and wrong. From what he'd seen, they seemed little different to him, but the hatred was too deeply ingrained and the desire to prove himself as a leader was strong. If it meant a few hundred keref died, then surely it was as Goddess intended.

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