The Last Heir, FanFic Options

[redsrock]

I hope you all enjoy the story and as always please leave feedback or a word of wisdom. I'm always looking for help and suggestions.



The Last Heir

CHAPTER ONE

The goblins were rushing in through the barn door, but they had no clue I was sitting up above on a rickety plank, ready to jump down and slay the evil beasts.

With my trusty spear in hand I dove down from above and struck one of the monstrous creatures to the floor. The others shrieked loudly as they charged me, but it was of no use. My skills in battle were envied by all and matched by no one.

One by one I sliced my way through the goblin horde until only the chieftain stood before me. He held his magical battle axe in hand with a furious expression, but I knew his intimidating stature was unreal. He was truly afraid of me and wanted nothing more than to run back to his smelly cave, but alas I was guarding the only exit out of my barn.

Slowly I walked towards the monster and as I inched closer and closer I began to see the sweat dripping from the chieftain’s face. His hands that were clutched tightly around the axe were shaking wildly. He stood no chance.

“Lukas, have you finished cleaning the barn yet? Supper is almost ready!”

At the sounds of my mothers shrill voice the battle ended and suddenly I was unfortunately sucked back into boring reality.

“Not yet mother, give me another ten minutes or so…”

I quickly took the broom I was holding and started sweeping the floor because I knew it was only a matter of seconds until my mother came to see what the matter was. She told me to clean the place an hour ago but of course like usual I had dazed off into my own fantasy land.

“LUKAS! Will you please clean things up quickly? Supper is just a few minutes from being ready and you’ve barely even started! What have you been doing in here all this time?”

Sure enough she entered the barn with the same stern expression she gave me every time I angered her, which seemed to be often.

“I was fightin’ the goblins mama, I had to protect our barn from the enemy,” I said with a sly smile about me.

My mother hated it when I pretended to be a knight or a warrior, or whatever... For some odd reason she becomes very infuriated whenever I did so.

“Lukas, you’re fifteen years old! When are you going to grow up?” She said with her arms folding firmly across her chest.

“Fine, fine, I’ll clean the barn, it shouldn’t take too long!”

“The next time I catch your mind wandering about when you’re supposed to be doing chores you’ll get a whipping you’ve never imagined before.”

I simply rolled my eyes as she walked away. But of course she wasn’t yet finished with her tirade. “And stop pretending my broom is some kind of weapon!”

“I can’t help it mama, I’m gonna be a knight some day!” I chuckled back.

She grunted loudly and finally ended the argument with a threat I’ve heard millions of times before, “You break my broom and I’ll break your legs!”

I always laughed loudly at that one, for my mother wasn’t abusive as some kids’ mothers were. She would never lay a finger on me, besides my constant spankings of course.

Come to think of it, I’d hate to see what she would do if someone ever did laid their hands on me. It sure wouldn’t be pretty, I know that for sure. My mom is extremely protective of me.

I think that’s why I am home-schooled. She probably doesn’t want to even think about me being whipped by the school’s headmaster, which I am almost positive would be a daily activity. She’d rather do that herself…


Two hours later I finished sweeping the floors and bundling all the hay. It took me longer than I expected and mother wasn’t too thrilled about the delay.

“Sorry mama, it took me a bit long than I thought it would. Mama…?”

I yelled a bit more but was never given a response. My immediate answer to the silence was that she was most likely outside watering our garden and picking any already ripe vegetables.

So I threw off my work clothes and bundled into a pair of comfortable pants and an unbuttoned shirt. I went into the kitchen to see two plates resting on the table. One was full of cold food and the other was almost entirely eaten.

I walked over to the front door and poked my head out to see where mother was. I saw her standing just a few feet away from the porch. That’s when I saw two men in shiny silver armor standing next to her.

I walked outside to greet the men and I noticed she was sobbing.

“Who are these people mama, and why are you crying?”

Without giving me an answer she threw her arms around me and began to cry even more than before.

“Mama, what’s wrong?”

One of the men in armor spoke up with a deep and serious voice.

“Son, follow us into your house. There are some matters that need to be discussed.”

I was speechless. I didn’t know what to say. My mom took me by the hand and led me and the other two men into the house, where we all sat down at the kitchen table after she cleaned it.

“Lukas, do you have any idea who your father was?”

“Umm…no sir, I do not. Mama told me he passed away when I was still a baby.”

The man looked over to mother and she started crying again, this time thankfully a little quieter than before. I hated seeing her cry; it pained me more than anything else.

“You father was Martin Septim, son of Uriel Septim. Do you know who any of those two men are?” The man asked with a sterner tone.

“No sir, I’ve never heard the names before,” I said sheepishly.

Again the man looked over to my mother, this time with sheer anger. I was almost afraid he was going to yell at her but he turned his attention back to me.

“Your father and grandfather were rulers of the Empire Lukas. Surely you’ve of the Empire, haven’t you?”

I nodded. Who didn’t know about the Empire? Even we, on this small island hundreds of miles from anyone else, know about them. But was this man serious about my father, and apparently my grandfather, once being rulers of the Empire?

“Martin and Uriel were both recently slain recently. Your grandfather was assassinated by the culprits and Martin sacrificed himself to save Cyrodiil. You, Lukas, are the heir to the throne.”

I was stunned beyond belief. Surely I was dreaming right? Perhaps I had fainted from the barn’s heat and I was imagining all of this? Surely I had to be, there’s just no way in the world any of this could really be happening.

“I’m sorry sir, but what are you talking about? I think you have the wrong person. I’ve lived here all my life and I highly doubt it’s possible that I would be related to any Imperial Kings.”

“Ah, but it is Lukas, what your mother has apparently forgotten to mention to you is that she was once a caretaker for the Chapel in the city that was once Kvatch. She happened to have a “small” mishap with Martin and that brought you into this world. Your mother fled the country and brought you here. And since you’re Martin’s only heir that makes you’re the rightful king of Cyrodiil.”

I looked over to my mother and she was able to nod her head slowly. I was the King of Cyrodiil? How could this be? I’m only fifteen years old!

“We’ll give you about an hour to get your stuff together and then we set sail for Cyrodiil where you will take your place at the throne, though it won’t be as glamorous as you might think. A war has just been won, but don’t worry, I’ll explain everything on the way.”

Things were happening so fast I didn’t know what to think. I was looking back and forth between the two men and my mother, then the next thing I knew I was toppling face first towards the table, and then everything went dark.

[redsrock]

Finally I have continued writing this story. Here is the 13th chapter:


CHAPTER THIRTEEN


I patted Jauffre on the shoulder and we left the room, leaving the body of the Champion to the workers that were now coming in. They would fix him up and make him a little more presentable to the people. Jauffre obviously didn’t want the people to view the Champion the way he was now. He didn’t want them to see something so hideous, but then again I didn’t really see an effective way of “cleaning” him up per say. But I suppose we’d have to see about that one.

“After the funeral we’ll immediately head out for Cheydinhal. There you will meet with the Dunmer Count, Andel Indarys,” Jauffre mentioned while we walked in the light rain. I was following him but unfortunately I didn’t even know where we were headed to. “Andel is quite the character I might add. Being the only non-Imperial ruler of Cyrodiil his views will obviously be different from what you will expect. His is an immigrant of Morrowind, where he was part of House Hlaalu.”

“And how do his views differ from the other rulers?”

“He wants more Dunmeri influence. He has always felt that there has been too much Imperial rule, and to him the country would crumble soon if more races weren’t allowed to rule in the Empire.”

“Sounds like he’s fairly outspoken,” I understated.

“Yes, and to tell the truth, I don’t really think much of the elf. During this time of need and rebuilding he will be asking you plenty of questions, and he’ll also give you his opinion on what should happen with the Empire. No doubt he’ll have some foreign recommendations of people he finds useful to you. You know, officers, diplomats, things of that sort. But don’t worry, Lukas, I’ll be there.”

“Will Lex again play the role of “temporary Emperor” while we’re gone?”

“That is for you decide, my lord.”

“Well, I say keep things how they were. Itius can travel with us as I think we should bring an army with us again.”

“I agree, Lukas, but this time we need not to bring as many soldiers as before. After all, Cheydinhal is only about two hours away, give or take a little. I’d say bring no more than five hundred men.”

“Alright, that sounds good. But may I ask where we are going right now, Jauffre?”

“Oh, yes, I am sorry. I think I have an idea where Baurus is. I’ve been thinking about it ever since we left Luther’s tavern. The last time he ran away he went to this very place. I am almost sure he’s there.”

“And where is that?”

“The prison sewers, at the same location where Uriel Septim was assassinated.”

That was certainly a peculiar place to be. There had to have been a specific reason for him to go there.

“Why would he go there?”

“When the Emperor died Baurus was so angry with himself for several days following the death. He was actually kind of close to the Emperor. Even when many questioned his childish antics Uriel was still confident in Baurus’s abilities. After Uriel died Baurus blamed himself for not being able to save the Emperor from an early death. Since then Baurus always goes there when he is stuck in a difficult situation.”

“Do you think he will be hostile?”

“No, not all. Every time I find him there he’s sobbing or praying; one of the two. It is a peaceful place for Baurus; one where he can calmly think about things without any interruptions.”

So in about twenty minutes Jauffre and I were at the entrance to the sewers. The gates were unlocked, further hinting that Jauffre was actually in there. Jauffre opened the gates and we stepped inside the damp and dark passageway. We walked in silence no more than five minutes until we reached a room. And in that room red writing was displayed all over the wall and red candles were lit everywhere, along with several torches as well. Jauffre’s face was full of shock and surprise. Baurus was nowhere to be seen.

“Oh my god…”

The writing on the wall wasn’t even really writing at all. It was more just simple slashes, as if someone has scratched their fingernails on the wall. Jauffre stepped up to the wall and took a closer look at the writing.

“It’s blood.”

I got a closer look of my own and sure enough it was blood. This was definitely not what Jauffre was expecting and he was suddenly struck with fear.

“We have to get out of here, Lukas, now.”

I did not question his order and the two of us turned to walk out the door, but when we did, Baurus himself was standing in our way. He was not wearing the standard Blade armor, but was instead wearing nothing but a pair of old tattered pants. Blood had been splattered on his muscled chest. Baurus’s face was rather dirty, and he had an almost insane look upon his face. He had nothing with him except for his katana, which he was gripping tightly with his right hand.

“I knew you’d come eventually,” Baurus said with an evil smile.

I looked at Jauffre and he absolutely shocked.

“Baurus, what are doing? Where is your armor?”

“That doesn’t matter. You no longer control me, Jauffre. I am my own man now and you will not boss me around anymore. I am going to make sure of that.”

I could sense Baurus had totally lost his mind, and Jauffre also sensed this as well. This wasn’t a very good situation were in and Jauffre made his best attempt at distinguishing it.

“Come on, Baurus. Put the sword down and we’ll go have a couple of drinks at Luther’s. How’s that sound?”

Baurus simply laughed at the proposal. “You take me as stupid, Jauffre?” No, I will not fall for your antics. It is all over now, “Grandmaster”. You, and unfortunately Lukas, will never have the chance of having a drink. In fact, you will not leave this room I’m afraid.”

Jauffre unsheathed his own katana and then told me to step aside. I retreated to the back left corner of the room as Baurus began walking towards Jauffre with his blade held forward.

“You don’t have to do this, Baurus,” Jauffre while getting into a defensive stance.

“Oh, yes, yes I do. I will not allow you to torment me any longer. Lukas will have to die too because he is a witness, and that is a shame. But then again back in Leyawiin I got a small taste of his true attitude. He treated me as a child just as you have done countless times. That will happen no more.”

Baurus swung his sword at Jauffre but he blocked it easily.

“No, Baurus, you’ve deserved all the scolding you’ve received. I have tried relentlessly to teach you the right ways, but I see it was of no use. You have fallen out of reach and unfortunately I realize there is nothing I can do to save you from you ill-chosen fate.”

Jauffre swung his sword quickly several times at Baurus, but he blocked all three attempts. Despite his infective swings, I was greatly impressed by Jauffre’s “ritual-like” maneuvers. Even in old age he swung his blade smoothly. It appeared Baurus was impressed as well.

“You fight well for an old man, Jauffre. Too bad it’s not going to good enough.”

The two continued to fight and the battle went on for what seemed like forever. Every time Baurus thought he had a good chance to may contact with Jauffre’s skin the Blade master avoided the attempt. It appeared that as the battle wore on Baurus was getting fatigued. But Jauffre on the other hand never seemed to lose a breath.

“You’re getting tired, Baurus? Perhaps this is because you have not trained as I have told you many times before…”

“SHUT UP!”

Baurus swung heavily with his sword, but again with no prevail. Jauffre took advantage this time and sliced across Baurus’s back. He fell to the ground for a moment, but then got back up ready to continue. It was clear that he was in pain but his determination was certainly admirable.

But it was of no use, as Jauffre’s skills in battle were simply too high. Baurus lunged at him with all his might, attempting to tackle the old Imperial, but Jauffre sidestepped and Baurus ran into the wall. When he turned around, dazed and confused I might add, Jauffre sliced across his stomach this time and Baurus did a sort of flip and landed hard on his back on the stone floor. Jauffre raised his katana high into the air and then shoved his blade though the Redguard’s stomach, ending the rift between one another once and for all.

I watched as Jauffre looked down on Baurus’s corpse for several seconds. Then, after picking up Baurus’s blade, he turned to me and said, “Let’s get out of here.”


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


The next morning I was finishing up a warm bath, and as soon I was done I would be meeting with Jauffre, Itius and Lex. There were many things to discuss, namely Baurus’s death, but also plans for the Champion’s funeral.

When Jauffre and I had made it back to the city last night he told me to take a bath and get some sleep. He wanted me to meet him in the morning at nine o’clock, in the meeting room of the Palace. It was currently 9:30, meaning I had already missed my deadline.

During the trip back from the sewers last night he had said not a word. Clearly he wished he didn’t have to kill Baurus, but the stubborn Redguard had given him no choice. I admired Jauffre’s hard-nosed willpower, but I was also feeling sorry for him. His job was extremely hard and killing his own man doesn’t help the stressful position as Grandmaster of the Blades. But that is what comes with the title and I probably shouldn’t be surprised by Jauffre’s demeanor. He’s head of the Blades for a reason.

After I was done bathing I dressed myself into a pair of tan linens and a brown shirt, along with cowhide shoes. I had yet to shop for lavish clothing that could actually fit me, so I was forced to wear clothing of lesser quality. When I arrived at the Palace the other three were already in the meeting room, according to a soldier that escorted me. I opened the large doors and stepped inside the room, where the three rose to their feet.

“Lukas, you’re a little late,” Lex said playfully.

“Yes, I am sorry for that. So, where shall we begin?”

The four of us sat done and the meeting began.

“Lukas, I’ve spoken with Lex and Itius about Baurus, and we’ve decided that the best decision would be to give him a proper burial. Even if he was a pain sometimes, he still did a lot for the Empire. I sent a unit of soldiers to fetch his body. We’ll have a private funeral for him after the Champions, just before we leave for Cheydinhal,” Jauffre said.

“Who will attend?”

“Just the four of us, I think. I don’t see a reason for anyone else.”

I let the subject go because it seemed as if Jauffre did not want to discuss it anymore. I didn’t blame him, so instead of pestering him about Baurus I asked them how the funeral preparations were coming.

“The people of the city have been aware of his death on the day it happened. We announced it as soon as we could. As for invitations to the funeral, they were sent out yesterday and announcements have been made throughout the city. Believe me, Lukas, everyone knows,” Lex said.

“The workers have set up a place in front the statue of your father, in the Arboretum. I don’t know if anyone has told you, but your father turned into the avatar of Akatosh. It was truly a sight to behold when he…”

Lex was excited about the statue and kept talking about it, but Jauffre cut him off, rather rudely at that.

“We don’t have time for idle chit-chat, Lex. I am not in the mood for it, so let us simply get down the business. The funeral is set for six o’clock tonight. Afterwards we will get some sleep, wake up in the morning and bury Baurus, and then we will take off for Cheydinhal, except for you of course,” Jauffre said looking at Lex.

“Now, Lukas, I think you and I should do some shopping while there’s time. You definitely could use a new wardrobe,” he said staying my attire down with distaste. “Don’t worry about preparations. We have many people working on it was we speak.”

We all left the room, with Lex and Itius going there own separate ways. I looked at Jauffre, who was yawning and stretching his arms upward. He looked as if he had not slept just yet.

“Forgive me for saying this, but you look awful.”

Jauffre smiled just a little bit and replied, “I couldn’t sleep last night. Not after what happened back in the sewers.”

“I’m sorry you had to do that, Jauffre. I know you must feel awful, and…I mean, you can always talk to me about it if you want to…”

Jauffre laughed loudly and rubbed my hair. “Thanks, Lukas; I know I can count on you. I’ll be alright; it will just take a while in getting used to things without Baurus around, that’s all.”

“What did Itius and Lex say about it, if you don’t mind me asking I mean.”

“They weren’t really surprised. They both seemed to have thought it was going to happen sooner or later. I can’t say I would say the same thing, but it’s over now. And I don’t mean to be rude, Lukas, but I don’t want to talk about it anymore. Surely you can understand.”

He wasn’t trying to sound mean to me, but he just simply didn’t want to talk about. And I wasn’t about to keep clawing at him with the topic, so I dropped it. But then again, I would probably question him about Baurus sometime in the future. The whole situation was just so confusing and sudden.

“Sure thing, Jauffre. Now…where shall we start our little shopping spree?” I asked while rubbing my hands eagerly.

“I think we’ll visit Divine Elegance. It’s an expensive clothing shop run by the Altmer, Palonirya. She has an excellent selection of lavish clothing that will fit your Emperor needs. After that we’ll head over to Red Diamond Jewelry, a jewelry shop owned by the Nord, Hamlof Red-Tooth.”

I scoffed at the word ‘jewelry’, and Jauffre noticed my expression.

“Lukas, jewelry is not only made for women. Men wear it as well. It is a sign of good fortune and high quality. Do not worry, nobody will think of you as girlish,” Jauffre said after laughing.

We continued on and walked to the Market District, where the place was lively and going, even at about 9:30 in the morning. Several people waved to me and most of the people had happy faces when they saw me. That was a good thing. Perhaps naming Adamus Count of Leyawiin was even smarter than I originally thought, and that’s saying a lot.

When Jauffre and I entered Divine Elegance, an elderly Altmer lady was humming a tune while folding some expensive-looking dresses. When she heard the door close she turned around to greet us with a warm smile.

“Jauffre, what a pleasure it is to see you! It’s been a while.”

“Yes it has, Palonirya. Forgive me for my absence. But I think I can make up my lack of presence with a little spending, eh?”

“You most certainly can! And who is it here you have?” She asked, eying me with her Altmeri eyes, which almost appeared magical in a way.

“Why, Palonirya, this here is Lukas Septim.”

“Lukas Septim. My, my, my; what an honor it is to meet you, young lord. You certainly are younger, and shorter I might add, than our previous leader. But I am sure that will not disable you in ruling our fine province!”

“No, it most certainly will not. I bring young Lukas here to purchase some clothing. As you can see he doesn’t exactly look like an Emperor.”

She made a sort of tut-tut noise with her mouth and commented, “Oh heavens no he doesn’t. But let me think…I believe I have something that’ll do him just fine.”

She left the room and walked over to a chest. I shot a quick look at Jauffre, who was smiling tremendously. He patted me on the shoulder and I turned back to the Altmer lady, who had several pieces of clothing in her arms.

“Here, sweetie, try these on for size. There’s a small room over there in the corner where you can undress,” she said cheerfully. This lady was without a doubt the happiest being I had ever met. And I think I had a feeling why it was that she seemed so happy. As I walked over to the room I eyed Palonirya, and she was staring into Jauffre’s eyes, and vice-versa. Now I am no romantic or anything like that, but even I could plainly see that the two were flirting with one another. I’d have to agitate Jauffre about that later.

While inside the small closet, (and small was definitely an understatement), I tried on all of the clothing Palonirya had given to me. When I was all dressed I looked into the mirror that was nailed onto the wall. I was wearing some fancy looking blue pants, and a shirt to match. I was also wearing a pair of blue suede shoes, and even though I felt strange, I also felt extremely comfortable as well. So I trotted out of the closet proudly to show off my new attire and Jauffre asked, “How do you feel?”

I looked down at my clothing and replied simply, “distinguished.”

Palonirya giggled a bit and ran over to the wooden counter to see how much everything was. “Let me see here…ah yes, the total will one hundred septims even. And I should probably mention I’m giving you a small discount,” she said slyly to Jauffre.

“I’m sure I can return the favor someday,” he replied while handing her a handful of gold coins.

Jauffre and I left the shop and as we did I could have sworn I saw Palonirya wink at the old Blade grandmaster. I looked up at his face and his cheeks were bright red, further giving evidence that what I saw was true.

Outside the sun was shining and I was only one stop away from actually resembling an Emperor. We walked across the section and entered the jewelry shop, where a strange-looking Nord was talking to himself.

“Stupid kids always trying to steal me items. I’ll show them, hahaha, I’ll set a trap and catch the little brats. Hahaha, that’ll show ‘em…”

“Ahem”

“Oh, Jauffre, I didn’t see ‘ya come in.”

“Obviously. You’re facing in the opposite direction, Hamlof,” Jauffre replied bluntly. Something told me he wasn’t the Nords’ biggest fan.

“Yes, well, what can I do for ‘ya?” The Nord spoke in the typical Nord accent, and I couldn’t help but notice how poorly dressed he was. That struck me as strange given the fact that he was jewelry merchant.

“Lukas here is looking to purchase some jewelry. Nothing too fancy, a couple of rings I suppose.” He said this quickly, as if he did not want to talk with the Nord more than he had to.

“Ah, well it just so happens I’ve recently put a discount on me glass rings. Care to take a gander, boy?”

I walked over to a large glass case that was full of different rings, amulet, etc. Hamlof took out a gleaming glass ring and held it to my eye. They were so beautiful looking and I immediately fell in love with the jewel. I looked at Jauffre and nodded enthusiastically. He reached into his pocket tossed a few coins on the counter and said, “Keep the change.”

When we stepped outside into the sunshine Jauffre commented, “Remind me not to go in there ever again, alright?”

“Okay, but may I ask why? You didn’t seem to care too much for the Nord.”

“I don’t, but that’s not really important. Let’s get you back to the palace. We have everything you’ll need for the funeral. I’ll have a maid purchase some more clothing for you at a later time.”

Jauffre and I walked back to the Palace, where the place was empty except several guards. Jauffre explained that most of the staff was present at the funeral spot setting things up. It was already noon and soon people would be arriving at the Arboretum. They would talk until about five and then we would start filing everybody in place.

I spent that time in between eating some lunch and talking to Jauffre. He explained that the funeral would be an extremely sensitive atmosphere and I would have to watch what I said. It would not be a smart move to anger the people at their hero’s funeral. But after the talk of the funeral I asked Jauffre a more personal question; One pertaining the Altmer, Palonirya.

“Jauffre, I hope not be rude, but I couldn’t help but notice how happy you were in Palonirya’s shop. Would you like to explain that enjoyment?”

Jauffre smirked a bit and his cheeks once again turned a shade of bright red. “Nothing escapes your eyes, eh?”

“Well actually it was kind of noticeable.”

“Okay, okay, you’ve caught me red-handed. Would you like to hear the entire story from beginning to end?”

I nodded.

“Very well, then. It all started back in Chorrol. Palonirya used to run a clothing shop there, but back then she sold clothing of all quality. Whenever I traveled into the city I would stop there and have a chat. She was always a nice lady, and quite attractive as well. Well, one day I happened to ask her out to dinner, and to my surprise she obliged to the offer. I knew Countess Valga personally and she allowed me to dine with Palonirya in the Castle dining room. All went well and we had a grand time and after that I would see her daily. Things went great for the first couple of weeks, but then something happened. There was a jewelry salesman that held shop just beside Palonirya. He too fancied her almost as much as I, and he became quite angry when he learned that Palonirya and I were dating. He made several attempts to stifle our relationship and he even went as far as to claim that I was already married, which of course was completely absurd. Well, one thing led to another and ultimately Palonirya decided that she couldn’t go on with dating me. She claimed she couldn’t serve me as well as she should, or something stupid like that. I was totally angry with her and I stopped seeing her. But the one thing that hurt the most is that I think the real reason was that she was attracted to jewelry salesman. The next thing I knew she moved here to the Imperial City, as did the salesman two days later. Of course I thought something was up but I didn’t look into for several reasons. One being I was too angry to even care; but also I was too busy with the Blades. And guess what the real kicker is…”

“What?”

“That salesman is none other than Hamlof Red-Tooth.”

It all made sense now. No wonder Jauffre seemed to dislike Hamlof so much.

“I’m sorry, Jauffre.”

“Don’t worry, Lukas, it’s not important. Even if my attraction to Palonirya has been renewed, it won’t amount to anything. I’m through with her. Anyways, it’s already five thirty. I think it’s time we make our way to the funeral, wouldn’t you say?”

I nodded in agreement and we left the palace. Even with Jauffre’s words I had a strong feeling his little fling with Palonirya was anything but through…