(Page 1 of 2) Dragon Blood Chronicles: Chapter 1 Part C by Benjamin Soto
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SUMMARY: For more stories by Benjamin Soto go to www.benjaminsoto.blogspot.comPrince Apath made his way down the large staircase in the main hall of Co'dana Castle. He wore plain brown clothing that made him seem more like a commoner rather than a prince, and his long black hair hung freely. Apath felt more comfortable in the clothing he wore and with his hair in such a manner. The formal wear brought the reality of his situation to his face more often that he'd like. He was heir to the throne of Co'dana and son of Emperor Alturon. He was the last of a dynasty that spanned six generations, and unless he married the family line would die with him.
Apath stopped before the first of four large paintings that took up entire walls in the main hall. The first was of his great grandfather, Emperor Alturon Secrat the Third. (The previous rulers of the Empire did not believe in paintings and thought them to be the work of darker magic being able to capture an image in such a way. Secrat the Third was the first to break the silly superstition.)
On the wall next to that painting was Emperor Alturon Secrat the Forth. Of all four paintings this one seemed to be the most awkward to young Prince Apath. The man seemed as though he should not have been an Emperor. The look on his face in the painting was that of utter ignorance, and he looked as though he had never left the castle and paid attention to little that did not concern his entertainment.
"It took them much time to complete these painting, my Prince." Darkain spoke up as he stood behind Apath.
Startled, Apath turned around trying to hide the fact that Darkain once again made his presence so close to him without detection. "Lord Darkain. I thought there was a meeting with the council as to the current situation at the borders in the north."
"There was, my Lord, but your father, The Great Emperor, ended it quickly. When the solution is simple then the course of action is clear. No point in debating." Darkain said moving closer to Apath.
Apath watched as Darkain approached. The large black robe the wielder of magic wore covered his feet and legs and it seemed as though the man hovered with each movement. Man? Is there truly a man beneath that robe? Every time Darkain was in Apath's presence the thought would linger. Still, he watched as Darkain moved closer, and he watched the man's long, dark silver hair and eyes moved closer.
"Your father, the great Emperor decided that my powers would indeed be useful in aiding your people." Darkain stopped close to Apath.
"And the price for your services?"
"Price? My services are free and the reward is simply serving the Alturon Dynasty in its time of need." Darkain bowed his head to Apath with such formality that it sent shivers through the young Prince.
"And your spot in the council will be secured after this struggle has ended. For such loyal services of course." Apath could feel his hate for Darkain brewing within. How could his father have drafted the services of such an evil creature? How could no one else see this?
"No true good could be done by myself if I were not to be a part of the council, my Prince." Darkain smiled lightly.
"My father has every confidence in you.
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