One Battle Lord’s Fate by Linda Mooney

Author:Linda Mooney [Mooney, Linda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: science fiction, swords, romance, fantasy, post-apocalyptic, mutants, futuristic
Publisher: Music And Press
Published: 2012-12-30T06:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eighteen

Relation

Of all the knowledge his father had imparted to him before his death, Yulen remembered one piece of advice the most. “Every Battle Lord is committed to keeping and protecting his compound. But I’ve never met a man who didn’t want the best for himself. If there’s something new and attractive, he will claim the first one.” Rory D’Jacques waggled a finger under his son’s nose. “We call it ‘entitlement’. We put our lives on the line every day to serve our people, and we feel we’re owed the odd bauble that shows up. Never forget that, Yul. If you can’t get a Battle Lord to see your way, a little bribery never hurts.”

With help, Yulen had chosen specific gifts each Mutah compound could offer the Battle Lords. Gifts which were uncommon among the Normal compounds. The first of these gifts were personalized hand-beaded leather weapons belts from West Crestin. Each individualized belt bore the Battle Lord’s name and the colors of his pennants. As Yulen had expected, the men were impressed by the intricate detail. Subconsciously, his free hand went down to his own belt he had been given the past winter.

Along with the belts were vests, saddles, and other leather goods. The workmanship on every item was impeccable. Rather than ask each Mutah compound to freely donate their items, he had bartered with them, giving fair market value in trade.

Following West Crestin was Wallis, which brought a keg of lemon verbossa for each Battle Lord. “A word of warning, gentlemen. One mug of the stuff will land you flat on your ass, but the kick is worth it,” Yulen warned with a smile.

As each Mutah compound presented their works and worth to the Battle Lords, he further pressed the issue. “You asked why should you join with the Mutah? This is why. Think of the commerce! Think of the trade!”

“I think you’ve succeeded in what you intended to do.” Atty smiled up to him.

“Well, it was you who gave me the idea in the first place.”

“Me?”

“Yes. When you gave me this belt last winter. It was the first thing I thought about.”

In the distance, he spotted a soldier was running toward him. Yulen and Atty stepped away from the head table as the man arrived and quickly saluted.

“Jueltice?”

“A new Battle Lord has arrived. He apologizes for his tardiness.”

“At least he arrived before the conference was over,” Yulen said. “Have him and his men escorted into the outer courtyard to set up their tents, then bring him here. What’s his name?”

“D’Jacques, Sir.”

Yulen and Atty froze. “What?”

“He says his name is Rafe D’Jacques, from the compound of Alta Seran. He says he’s your half-brother.”

Yulen felt the blood drain from his face. He had no idea he had a sibling, much less a half-brother. He remembered sending an invitation to Alta Seran, but the compound was simply another name on his list. He’d had no idea who was in charge.

“On second thought, show his men where to set up their tents, but bring D’Jacques to my lodge.

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