Destruction: Book Three of the Destruction Series

By Phil Cantrill

In the final book of his Destruction trilogy, author Phil Cantrill brings the epic adventure of good versus evil in the ancient world to an action-packed close. Prince ErechtheusErech to his intimatesreturns to Poseidia with his friends on a desperate mission to destroy the very source of the empires power, the mighty crystal that allows his enemies to control nature itself. Erechs lifelong nemesis, the powerful, paranoid, and perverse Al-Jinn, high priest of the Temple of Bel, will stop at nothing to destroy his former slave and prisoner.

Erech and his companions must find the strength needed to survive their confrontation with the mad priest. At stake is the fate of the empireand the world. As fire and earthquakes rage around them, a heroic battle for the mighty firestones culminates.

Driven by courage and a sense of justice, Erech and his warriors are all that stand between the danger of the empire and peace for his world. Can this small, brave band of heroes fight evil and corruption of this magnitude successfully? And can they keep Al-Jinn and his allies from power elsewhere?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Partridge Publishing Singapore
• Release date: Oct 8, 2013
• ISBN: 9781482895490

Phil Cantrill

Phil Cantrill was a barrister for many years. In his profession, he often met people who reminisced about their experiences during World War II. Upon becoming a writer, he decided to turn some of these tales into a novel. His published works include four novels and several short stories.

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Copyright © 2014 by Phil Cantrill.

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Contents

PROLOGUE

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

GLOSSARY

(VOLS. 1, 2 AND 3)

DEDICATION

With deep affection to Jenny Wagner who first believed

in me; also to the Yandina Clique—especially Carol, Meg,

Melissa, Mike and Tricia, for their help, constructive

criticism and useful advice.

And special thanks to George Fowler

PROLOGUE

N otwithstanding his stunning victory over the Empire, Erech knows that, despite the Homelands’ impending doom, Bel’s evil High Priest Al-Jinn will not cease plotting his murder and the destruction of Attiké. Safety for Erech, for his people and for all his allies can be assured only by destruction of the Crystals, whose amazing powers are a source of the Empire’s supremacy. If they were to be removed to a safer place before the Homeland’s destruction is complete, its surviving factions will be able still to maintain their hegemony over other lands. Erech realises the only sure way of eliminating the threat is to lead a small force secretly to Poseidia, destroying the Crystals before they can be spirited to safety.

But even if they succeed in this task, how can he and his team possibly survive the Homelands’ destruction to return safely to Attiké?

1

A mid the effusive speeches, Prince Erechtheus was uncharacteristically glum. His tall, athletic body slumped in a pose suggesting despair rather than jubilation, his smiles and waves to the cheering crowds seeming a little forced. He, twin brother Boutes and their warrior sister Philomela were in the front row of a podium set up in the agora. Seated behind them were their father King Pandion, shrewish Queen Zeuxippe and their other sister Procne. General Marpesia, Temenus and representatives of the giants, centaurs and birdmen, as well as Aithiopian princes M’Buta and his uncle Repaches, were also on the dais. They all faced a throng that seemed to have thrown away all inhibitions in celebrating their great victory over the Empire, the thwarting of an invasion attempt that ended in the enemy’s utter rout. Wine flowed copiously: numerous pigs and bullocks were roasting on spits for all to share. All kinds of fruits of the soil were in abundance.

Erech, Boutes and Philomela were given pride of place in recognition of their contributions to the victory. Frequent bursts of cheering from the crowd, directed mainly at Pandion’s children, showed their enthusiasm for the ones all regarded as the saviours of Attiké.

Why so glum? You look as if we lost the battle, Erech, remarked Boutes. Come on, relax and enjoy the celebrations.

His warrior sister Philomela, sitting on Erech’s other side, said Yes, Erech. This is your celebration. Enjoy it.

I can’t relax until the job’s finished, said Erech. We’ll never be free of the Empire until the source of their superiority is destroyed. There’s no doubt in my mind Al-Jinn will do his best to ensure they try again if they possibly can. Next time, they’ll be ready with surprises of their own.

Boutes turned to face him squarely. You forget, Erech, that our priests tell us the gods are about to destroy their lands. In a few months they’ll no longer exist.

Their land may be destroyed, said Erech, but there’s nothing to stop them using their power and knowledge to dominate the world from somewhere else. If they settle in Ta-Mehu, as seems probable, we’ll be seen as a thorn in their side so long as we continue to exist. While they can still use the power of the Crystals they’ll always be a threat to us and other free peoples everywhere. The Crystals must be destroyed before there’s a chance to remove them. Only then will the Empire lose the greatest advantage it has over everyone else.

You may be right, brother but, tonight we’re having a celebration. Don’t spoil it with gloomy talk. Plenty of time for that tomorrow.

Despite his encouragement to his brother, it was Boutes’ turn to remain silent for a few moments. He looked at Erech again.

You said after you killed Brigadier Am-Ain that the High Priest of Bel is the one who’s the tyrant. What did you mean? I thought you hated all the Empire.

I met some good people in Poseidia, and had a lot of special friends among the Sons of Empire, like Ap-Thon for instance. It’s impossible for me to hate them. The danger lies in the ones who try to use their power for their own purposes, like Al-Jinn. He tried to kill me many times just because of some crazy old seer’s prophecy. He and his Temple, and his god, are the cancer that’s eaten away at the Empire. That’s why I want to destroy the Crystals—not to end the Empire, but to remove the great advantage the Crystals’ use gives them over everyone else.

It was Boutes’ turn to think for a while. Finally, he surrendered to the still-cheering crowds. Come on, brother, let’s not spoil the celebrations. Our people have been through a frightening invasion attempt. Plenty of time to think about Al-Jinn or the Crystals after the cheering has died down.

*     *     *

News of the Empire’s crushing defeat did nothing to improve tall, cadaverous Al-Jinn’s temper. The blood-red cuffs on the sleeves on his long black, hooded robe marked him as High Priest of Bel. Sitting at his blackwood desk in his god’s gloomy Temple, his eyes held a gleam that was not entirely sane as he crumpled the note into a ball, throwing it inaccurately at the head of his black-robed chief aide, Ah-Rune.

It was bad enough the Empress let the Idiots of One stir trouble with all this talk of destruction. Now that bumbling moron in Smúrnē is outsmarted by a handful of barbarians into losing fifty thousand of our best men and nearly five hundred ships. How do you explain it?

Ah-Rune’s nervousness showed as he shuffled his feet. Careful to avoid the irate primate’s deadly Stare, he kept his gaze floorwards rather than risk accidental eye contact as he stood before his master. Holy One, the early reports are vague. They seem to suggest the barbarians had some kind of fiery weapons that could send missiles far beyond the range of our crossbows. They stood back and avoided closing while they set our fleet ablaze.

A strange look flitted across the face of the High Priest. The old seer said— Al-Jinn stopped, looking around furtively. His sudden anger seemed feigned to Ah-Rune’s surreptitious glance as the Fear-Master thumped his desk.

If you and the others had done as you were told and rediscovered the ancient weapons, the accursed Pelasgoi would have been the ones annihilated instead of our forces.

Ah-Rune did his best to ignore the tantrum. If the sea skimmers had been allowed to use their speed, it would have negated the enemy’s tactics.

He thought it prudent not to mention the Athênaians’ help from the bizarre creatures the Sons of Bel themselves had created. Nor did he see any need to remind the High Priest that it was he who had personally approved the Governor’s battle plans.

Another minor earth tremor rumbled through the Temple, rattling the little golden winged calf, symbol of Bel, on Al-Jinn’s desk. The vibration caused it to jump and fall on its side. Ah-Rune’s eyes widened in superstitious fear at this omen, but only for a moment as the High Priest continued his tirade.

And that’s another thing. Why in Bel’s name aren’t you and Al-Ra’e able to control the earth tremors by now?

Ah-Rune tried to stifle a sigh of exasperation. The Temple of the Sun won’t give anyone else access to the Crystals. I think they want to make sure they get the credit. They claim all of the available time is needed to control the present situation, but the fact is they’d lose credibility if we solved the problem instead of them. We have to beg use of the Stones on the pretext of trying to improve agricultural production, or some such. At the moment there’s a clamour from all the Temples for access. Sometimes we just have to wait our turn.

H’mm, grunted Al-Jinn. We’ll have to do something about that. Now, I want that gormless Governor of Smurné punished. Make an example of him. We have to find a capable general to prepare another expedition in the spring. Surely in that time we can find somebody to do the job properly. Nothing is to be left to chance next time.

Ah-Rune tried to hide his increasing nervousness. Holy One, it might not be so simple. Apart from losing most of our troops around the Inland Sea, our defeat seems to have sparked more trouble. Agents tell us the other Pelasgoi kings now openly offer help and encouragement to Attiké. They’ve even formed a league to send supporting troops and ships if we try to invade any of them. A few even expelled our people.

The news did nothing to ease the High Priest’s temper. He thumped his desk again, anger clearly showing on his face. Then destroying Athênai will teach them all a lesson.

Ah-Rune again shuffled his feet, keeping his eyes downcast. But the Empress ordered all military operations suspended until the evacuation is complete. She says every available resource must be directed to that. We can’t make plans contrary to her directive.

That won’t be a problem, you’ll see. The Empress will thank us for making contingency plans, including another invasion to bring Athênai to heel after this current scare is over. She’ll see it’s necessary to prevent more rebellions.

If you say so, Holy One.

Now, I want you and Al-Ra’e to use any means you can to get full access to the Crystals. Lie if you have to, it doesn’t matter. Thanks to this latest fiasco, unless we can rediscover the ancient weapons of power, soon we’ll be meeting increasing opposition. That’s your top priority. Use any of our priests or acolytes you think may be able to help.

Ah-Rune still seemed reluctant. He opened his mouth, but for a moment no words came. But, Holy One, we weren’t the only ones with those weapons. Bharata and the Tokharians among others had them too, and flying machines far more sophisticated than our present airships as well. All remnants of the ancient civilization agreed to disarm after the War of the Gods. If they learn we’re trying to rediscover them, won’t they do the same?

Al-Jinn sounded exasperated. Don’t be a pessimist, Ah-Rune. If we’re first, we can destroy any opposition before it’s organized. Just see to it.

Your wish, Holy One. Ah-Rune saluted, turning to go, but stopped as the Fear-Master continued.

Even if these lands are destroyed we’ll need to re-establish control over the survivors, and over the Empire, from somewhere safe like the Four Rivers. Otherwise we risk losing all we’ve fought for. Bel would not be pleased. The High Priest bent forward over his desk as if writing.

Ah-Rune tried not to show his surprise. This was the closest he had ever heard his master come to conceding the reality of the coming disaster. He said, Perhaps if you were to release Sa-Vil from whatever he’s doing at the moment, his knowledge of the Crystals could be useful.

Al-Jinn, without looking up, waved his hand. Use whomever and whatever you need. Sa-Vil hasn’t been much help so far. I sometimes wonder why we bothered taking him in after that other place threw him out. If you think he could add anything, use him.

But—. Ah-Rune stopped himself. He knew the rumours of Sa-Vil’s strange powers and how some whispered he had used them to help the High Priest overcome the recent challenge by Ax-Tuten, but it would be worth his life to mention this now.

As the door closed behind Ah-Rune, a transition overcame Al-Jinn. His angry visage disappeared, to crumple into lines of doubt and worry. He sat as if in despair, staring at nothing, head in his hands. Why, he thought, has Lord Bel forsaken me? I’ve tried my best to fulfill the duties of a High Priest. It’s not easy in this heathen society to ensure that His law is obeyed, that there’s always an ample supply of sacrifices to appease Him. What have I done wrong? Surely that trifling episode with the Pelasgoi lad so long ago didn’t cause the Lord to spurn me. I realise I made a mistake, but haven’t my efforts to correct it counted for something? Why does the Lord always seem to interfere to save the boy’s life? Even now he’s a grown man he still seems to be under Holy Bel’s protection.

Al-Jinn had seen the sidelong glances other priests sent in his direction when they thought he was not looking. He could feel his grip on the position of High Priest of Bel weakening despite his crushing defeat of the challenge by hapless Ax-Tuten. That thought brought another: A few priests had the temerity to suggest there was something improper about his defeat. The truth would shock them all.

The Fear-Master worried that he seemed to be losing his ability to cow the Temple’s priests with the power of his Stare. Though he tried to shore it up with bluff and bluster, in his heart he knew that somehow his years as High Priest were coming to an end. He shuddered. That always happened in just one way, with the High Priest honoured by being sent from the sacrificial altar direct to the bosom of Lord Bel. He was not ready for that.

Tears welled unbidden as he lay his head in his arms on the great blackwood desk, shoulders heaving with the force of his emotion. A great sob shook him.

*     *     *

Labdacus the Thêbaian had never seen such festivities. As Thêbai’s most dedicated drunk, he regarded himself as an expert on uninhibited excesses. Sleeping off the latest round of celebrations, in his dreams he relived the week’s highlights. There had been no time for such niceties as washing, bathing or putting on clean clothes. Had he been awake he would been forced to admit his ragged clothing had smelled better as, to put it bluntly, had he. But these Athênaian revels showed no sign of abating. Regardless of rank or station, everyone except the prisoners aboard captured ships, still under guard in the Bay of Eleusís, joined the celebrations. Wine’s flow was copious as the springs of the Akrópolis. Street vendors gave away food or other wares. Even the harlots were generous. No one had time for sleep. It seemed all the Pelasgoi had come to party, though comparatively few had been prepared to join the fight.

*     *     *

Compared to the shy teenager of just a few months before, Erech marvelled at his baby sister’s confident stride as she approached him along a palace corridor. The twin swords swaying with her hips seemed somehow to enhance rather than detract from her obvious femininity, adding an air of the mysterious. Seeing her armed like that, he thought, reminds me of Myriné. Philomela reached for his hand as she approached, grasping it before throwing the other round him as she stood on tiptoe to deliver him a resounding kiss on the cheek.

What was that for? he asked, stepping back in surprise.

A huge thank you, big brother, for all you taught me.

I think Iphito taught you more than I did.

She just polished what you’d already shown me. For a moment a look of sadness crossed the lovely face. But now, what husband will want a wife who could probably cut him to pieces if he stepped out of line?

Erech laughed. Probably a suitor who has no intention of stepping out of line.

Philomela giggled. Not many of them about, are there?

The prince became serious. I suppose not. I’m sorry, little sister, if I’ve ruined your chances of making a suitable match.

You haven’t, Erech. I’ve never felt I was cut out to be married off to some princeling looking at wedlock as a way to cement an alliance with a more powerful state like Attiké.

The prince looked solemn. I think you’re right but what are you going to do?

His little sister whirled on her toes, making several pirouettes before stopping to face him again. I couldn’t help hearing what you said to Boutes. I know you’re planning something, and I bet it’ll be more exciting than the stitch and chatter groups Procne thinks are all a girl should aspire to. Can I come along?

Taken aback at the boldness of the request, the shock was visible on Erech’s face. He took her hand. Philomela— he began, but was interrupted as she snatched her hand away.

Don’t give me that ‘you’re only a girl’ nonsense, Erech, if that’s what you’re about to say, like Father would. You know what I can do. You’ve said it yourself. Whatever adventure you’ve got in mind, I want to be a part of it.

I do have something in mind, but I haven’t asked father’s permission yet. He may not agree. It would be too dangerous for—

If you’re about to say ‘too dangerous for a girl’ I’ll hit you.

That’s not what I was about to say, though I’ll bet father would. You’re as good with your swords as anyone I’ve ever seen, including Myriné. It would be too dangerous for just the two of us. I’d need a group of at least twenty for what I have in mind, and the chances of survival even then are almost nil.

Her eyes lit up. Sounds like fun.

I don’t think that’s quite the right word. Anyhow, why don’t we talk more about it after I see whether father will give me approval?

All right, Erech, but don’t forget.

*     *     *

Another picture of utter despair, General/Governor Ar-Tuen also sat with his head in his hands: not over the debâcle of the attempted invasion—that was just an unfortunate incident. He mourned the loss of his sons. He had not seen Admiral Ax-Ner since the Empire’s forces met their disastrous end in the seas and on the shores of Attiké. The Admiral sent him a message asking to speak, but Ax-Ner was such a pest, always telling him how he should be doing things, or what he had done wrong. He ignored the note.

The completeness of the rout had been obvious from the first garbled reports: they spoke of a fiery welcome from Athênaian galleys, of the loss of many vessels, of the sea skimmers being bombarded by strange flying creatures but, despite that, managing to land troops. There was word of an impending battle.

Then silence.

Not a single vessel found its way home to Smúrnē. Ar-Tuen needed someone to blame. He sent for Ax-Ner, but the Admiral replied he had many things needing his urgent attention and it was not convenient. Perhaps later?

Not convenient? He thought. He’s not the General, I am. I’m in charge! The Admiral’s snub convinced him that, whatever had gone wrong, it was the Navy’s fault.

Ar-Tuen had sent an urgent report to Poseidia attributing all responsibility for the disaster to Ax-Ner. He failed to mention that he had ignored the Admiral’s advice. That was irrelevant. After all, the High Priest of Bel approved his plan. Poseidia would understand he was not to blame. Ar-Tuen shuddered at the possibility of being recalled. He had been Governor of Smúrnē for nearly twenty years. There had been no major confrontations in that time, just a few minor expeditions against local tribesmen needing to be brought to heel. He liked the relaxed lifestyle. His children had grown up here. His eldest son had been on the flagship of Commander Xal-Ar. His second son was captain of one of the sea skimmers. His youngest son, his baby, was aide-de-camp to Brigadier, former General, Am-Ain. What father would not want to keep his sons safe?

Who could have dreamt a rag-tag group of illiterate renegades could inflict such a total humiliation on the Empire? Anyone could see it was not my fault. The Empress and Al-Jinn will understand.

The mere thought of the black-robed High Priest made him tremble. Even at this distance the powers of the Fear-Master terrified him. The stories coming from Poseidia about the erratic High Priest suggested little sympathy could be expected from that source. Suddenly, he was very afraid.

The Governor heard the tap on his door but ignored it. Regardless, Admiral Ax-Ner entered, followed by his aide, the insufferable snob Xal-An. The haughty aide was always supercilious, looked down his nose at him and making Ar-Tuen feel like a naughty schoolboy. The strong scent of roses from Xal-An’s pomade almost had him gagging.

The Admiral put a paper on his desk, but Ar-Tuen barely glanced at it. This is an order to me from High Command, he said. You may be lucky, Governor, to be posted to this frontier of the Empire.

Ar-Tuen could not tell if the tone in the Admiral’s voice hinted at derision as he continued, I must return at once to Poseidia to oversee the general evacuation. I doubt that, in a few months’ time, anyone will be worried about what happened to our forces at Athênai. The Governor sat unmoving as Ax-Ner continued, My condolences, Governor, on the loss of your sons.

Still engrossed in his own world of grief, despair and self-pity, Ar-Tuen could not fully comprehend. Thank you. You’re leaving?

A sea skimmer is standing by. I’ve sent messages to captains of all remaining naval vessels in the Inland Sea, as well as our surviving airships and penteconters, to hurry to Poseidia. I expect we’ll be evacuating many people to Ta-Mehu, and possibly to here or to our other garrisons at the far end of the Inland Sea like Karkhēdōn, Búblos, Sidōn and Túros.

I don’t understand, said the Governor.

Assuming that there were any survivors from this debacle, I’d expect that if your sons are among them they might be sent as prisoners of war to Ta-Mehu. If I hear of their fate, Xal-An will get word to you.

Thank you. You’re very kind, murmured a still-distraught Ar-Tuen.

Not at all. Farewell, Governor. Ax-Ner came to attention and saluted before turning on his heel. His aide followed him out the door. Ar-Tuen was too lost in his own grief to notice the bitter, angry look on the aide’s face, or his failure to salute. Xal-An’s loss of his brother in the debacle was not within the Governor’s understanding of recent events. He absently waved his hand, trying to dissipate the cloying scent of roses.

*     *     *

In the dim light of his tiny cell, Priest Che-Cho sat, staring at the blank wall before him. In his mind he again remembered, as he did so often, the final hour of his lifelong friend Ax-Tuten. He saw once more the contest with the High Priest, remembering his friend’s growing strength and confidence, the obviously worried frown on the face of Al-Jinn. In what seemed like just a moment all that changed. Ax-Tuten was on the floor, writhing his last. Che-Cho remembered clearly seeing the High Priest’s face. It bore a look of relief, and of something else. He could only think of it as cunning.

I know you cheated, Al-Jinn. I’m sure Sa-Vil had something to do with it. How can Lord Bel allow a person such as you to be his High Priest? He recalled the rumours whispered in the Temple’s corridors of the Empire’s coming destruction. Despite the way Al-Jinn ridiculed and punished any he caught spreading the tales, Che-Cho knew in his heart they were true. Trusted friends still whispered to him queries about his friend’s death. He knew he was not the only one who believed the High Priest had somehow won an undeserved victory, just as he and others also believed the rumours.

Che-Cho squared his shoulders, resolving to try again to end the oppressive rule of Al-Jinn, or at least escape the dying land. The only question remaining for him was whether he should abandon the Temple to do either.

2

I n a square off the agora, the market area beneath the citadel walls, a defiant young mail-clad giant leaned drunkenly against a building. More than twice the height of a tall man, his features were coarse, his dark hair and beard matted, his rheumy eyes suggesting a long-continuing and excessive alcoholic binge. In his left hand he held a pretty Athênaian woman around the waist despite her struggles; in his right was a huge iron-tipped spear that he waved erratically. A little further to his right, along the wall, lay what appeared to be a large and rather rancid bundle of rags some rubbish cleaner must have left behind.

The giant faced a shouting mob of local residents: peasants or workers apart from a few burly employees of the markets, taverns and brothels that made up this area. Despite the young woman’s screams for help, none dared brave the giant’s spear to challenge him.

From the rear of the mob, hampered by it, came a squad of guards led by their captain, Cecrops. His calls to disperse went unheard over the general din. Someone in the crowd produced a javelin. He threw it as hard as he could at the giant, who batted it sideways with his massive spear. The giant laughed and lunged, swaying, with his own weapon towards the crowd whose members fell over each other in their efforts to stay clear.

Puny little people, said the giant with a rumbling laugh. Just want bit of fun. You all celebrate, why not me? Every one of us kill many more Sons of Atlás than your prince. You praise him and ignore us. Should thank us.

The captain, using the crowd’s anxiety to avoid the spear, worked his way to the fore. His men formed a wedge behind him, forcing the mob apart before spreading out to make a barrier between them and the giant. He adopted a loud, authoritative tone as he addressed the huge man.

You, soldier. What’s your name?

The giant looked up, apparently surprised. Sihon, son of Repha. Who ask?

Cecrops, captain of the Guard. Have you been drinking?

Only couple dozen wineskin. Sihon paused while he tried to focus his gaze on the speaker. What business of yours? He waved his spear vaguely.

"My business is keeping the King’s peace

Reviews for Destruction

[bemislibrary · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

In book one of the Destruction Trilogy, Prince Erechtheus is held as hostage, destined to be sacrificed by the priest that abused him. The High Priest of the Temple of One at the last minute to prevent starting a war with the surrounding states saves Erech. It is just the initial attempt to silence him and end his life to prevent the prophecies of destruction from happening. The tales is an interesting combination of fantasy, science fiction, and politics.

[krizia_lazaro_3 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

This book has all the potentials but the author did not made use of them. It was all over the place. There were things that was supposed to be removed, left out because it was not important to the story. Bad things never seem to happen to Erech except at the beginning and towards the end. He's young but he seems to be good in everything and it seems every girl in the world loves him. He sleeps with every one who wears a skirt except for Ai-Ram. Same thing with Ai-Ram, she's too good at everything. Despite their lack of experience, they seem to be good at everything. There's no excitement because you know Erech will win even with races, olympics, etc. He's even good with animals. Nothing is wrong with him just his BIG EGO. Towards the middle of the novel, you will get to know bird men and centaurs. All over the place. I did not enjoy this one. I'm sorry.

[yhaduong · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Received as part of the Early Reviewers program. I wanted to like this book, the story of young people of different cultures finding friendship in common, but the writing was not consistent with the story or the place and people names. I felt like the dialogue was a bit too modern for the inventive and lovely names of the characters. The story is appealing, but the writing makes it hard to fall in love with.

[jynxpierce · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Overall, not sure if this is for immature audiences (billed as YA). I thought a lot of this was missing in description but the story and plot was worth reading.

[merigreenleaf · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was a book that was a bit slow to get into at first; from the beginning we're thrown in with a group of evil priests who kidnap and try to harm the main character, who at the time was a kid. This was... jarring, to say the least, especially since it was in the same chapter as events happening elsewhere to a different character. I stuck with it, though, and soon the book really did pick up and the plot lines all tied together. The evil priests were still the antagonists, but the hero prevails, although at some cost.The only real problem I had with the book was the names. Ye gads, I couldn't recall who anyone was because most of them had short, hyphenated names. Thank goodness there was a glossary in the back, but I don't really like having to keep flipping back to that as I read. Eventually I just started going by context to figure out who was who. I just wish the author had developed some of the characters more; I think that would have helped with my inability to remember names. The main ones were pretty well developed, but the secondary ones could have used a bit more fleshing out.This is a young adult book, but there are some things a bit iffy about that which might bother younger readers. It's pretty much inferred that the protagonist was raped as a child. There's also a lot of mention of sex, which surprised me in a YA book.Overall, though, I really did enjoy this book! The story was good, it was well-written, and the characters were interesting even if some of them weren't as fleshed out as I would have liked. I enjoyed the fact that the book spanned about thirteen years because it was neat getting to see the main characters grow up and face different challenges. The author did well at letting the reader know just how much time had passed, which is good because that could have been a confusing problem.I'll stick with this series and read the next one when it comes out. I'll give this 4 stars out of 5. I think the author definitely has great potential; this is his first published book, so I'm thinking the next will be even better.

[mrsflicker_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I have to admit that this book was a bit hard to get into because if the way it is initially presen ted. It is billed as young adult, but after readig, the idea of rape comes into play. It is a little bit much as young adult reading, but deals with a situation that is alarmlngly on the rise is young adult reading. it is worth sticking with.

[spfitzinger_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I received this book as an Early Reviewer and at first I was a little put off by the cover which appeared rather juvenile and not that professional. Once I started reading, the book got pretty interesting. There was a nice variety of characters and the story went about where I thought it would, except that its being "Book One" meant that Book Two is going to start right where the first one left off. Overall the book is definitely targeted at youth with a bit more sex than I'd expect for a youth book. I think the author was trying a little too hard when he introduced a couple of token gay characters that didn't play much of a part in the story except that we find out they're gay. If the continued inclusion of sex is seen as being something that youths can handle when reading a book, I'd suggest that the characters could be developed in more depth instead of the surface feeling I got, because youths can handle that also. All in all, a decent first novel, and I would expect any further books would get more rich as the author matures as a writer.

[willowcove · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The cover and the first page of this book made me think that I had made a mistake. Fortunately, I hadn't. The book quickly got quite enjoyable. Granted, some of the conversations in the first half of the book were a bit contrived and simplistic. Since this stopped however, I wonder if it was the author's intent to show how young the characters were initially. Be that as it may, I would definitely recommend the book for YA enjoyment. I especially liked how the author threw in some gay characters and then passed it over as a "no big deal" topic.

[janarose1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Prince Erech is sent to Poseidia as an "Imperial Hostage" at the age of twelve. For the next thirteen years he is to live and learn about the Empire. On his first day, a blind seer foretells that he will be the destruction of Al-Jinn, a High Priest from the Temple of Bel. Al-Jinn attempts to sacrifice him to Bel, but he is rescued by Kul-Kan, High Priest of the Temple of One. Erech is taken to the relative safety of the Temple of One, where he makes life-long friends and learns about the inner-workings of the Empire. Despite the protection of the Temple of One, he is under constant threat from Al-Jinn and his assassins and must learn how to protect and defend himself.Well written, I highly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author. The characters were dynamic and engaging and the book moved at a steady pace. Overall, I am pleased with the writing style, character development and story-line of Imperial Hostage and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy

[ladywillendorf · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Interesting tale about a young boy's coming of age while he is an imperial hostage. The book starts as Erech is in a temple and is prophesied to bring down the high priest. That temple attempts to offer him up as a sacrifice, but they are stopped just in time by a priest of "The One" another temple of the Empire. This is the first book in this upcoming series, so the main character Erech is established. He learns the necessary skills of a warrior prince, while also exploring the rival Empire that has taken him hostage to ensure the "good behavior" of his own land. The Empire is quite advanced compared to his own civilization and he attempts to learn as much as possible about his host civilization including any weaknesses they might have. This is a well written young adult historical fantasy. The characters are intriguing and I think that both genders would enjoy if they like fantasy of ancient history. I look forward to the next book!

[wyndwhisper · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

i greatly enjoyed the hero of the book and that he was an independant and smart men. all of the characters were intriguing and full of depth and vitallity. it was very easy to become emotionally connected to each of the characters and to empathize with them and what they were going through.i was a joy to watch them grow and change and become the people they wanted to be. if you love a book that makes you feel laughter,sadness, angry and all of the other emtions it is that we feel as people then this is the book for you. if this is the type of book that you enjoy then this is the book for you

[schiela-1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Imperial Hostage, Book 1 in a trilogy, was good. It had a young adult feel because some adult topics were alluded to but never really discussed or stated out right.The story itself is one of a young boy, Erechtheus, growing up and maturing in a foreign land, known as the Empire, as a hostage. In the empire, a group of priests try over and over again to kill him. These attempts on Erechtheus' life are underlying story of the book. Besides trying to stay alive we see Erechtheus learn about love, loss, and friendship.Even though I enjoyed the book, I wasn't really sure where it was leading to as part of a trilogy. While I was reading the book, I didn't really think that this was part of a trilogy. In the last chapter the cliff hanger for the second book was revealed. I will probably read the sequel but I can wait till it comes out.All in all, this is a good airplane read.*I won a free copy this e-book in a LibraryThing Member Giveaway*

[antares1_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I'm happy that author Phil Cantrill was able to be published, but I believe this book should have had some more polish before being sent to press. If you like your heroes to be the most handsome, most athletic, most well liked than believably possible then this book is for you. For me the Gary Stu attributes of the hero were way over the top. With the exception of the antagonist, Al-Jinn and his cronies everyone seemed to love and protect the hero, Erech. Ai-Ram wasn't far behind in the having it all category. Her talents saw her advance rapidly in the priesthood without any undo duress.The dialog and the narrative were stilted. The moralizing at times was heavy handed. I give the author credit for some decent world-building, but I think he needs more work on his style.

[aparna_sethuraman_2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The imperial hostage is an engrossing story that reads like a historic/fantasy novel. But the world described in this story has many modern elements to it. The author makes you want to keep reading till the end. Erech the main character who is sent to an enemy land where he is required to spend the next 12-13 years of his life as a hostage. He is supposed to spend his life in a temple. But the day he arrives an old seer predicts that he would lead to the death of the head priest of the Temple. This prophecy sends Erech on the adventure of a lifetime.

[pebblesgmc · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Imperial Hostage - Book 1 of the Destruction Series by Phil CantrillThis is a great book, I couldn't put it down, and can't wait for the next book to come out!! This is destined to be a best seller, and I recommend it to all both YA and adult readers.

[ravenswoodpublishi-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

PHIL CANTRILL'S "IMPERIAL HOSTAGE" (REVIEW)This book is not just a coming of age story, it's a story about life in a time long forgotten. Written for the YA genre the lessons contained in this book are great for the younger generation. Ai-Ram loses her family to an unforeseen disaster and is taken to the Empire, Erech a young prince is taken hostage, his fate the same, when they meet they form a friendship that is paramount to their survival. Along with the other young acolytes of the Empire undergo training to prepare them for a future that is unsure.From coming close to being sacrificed to the God Bel, to going through many trials Erech emerges a 25 year old man with a destiny that could decide the fate of both his homeland and the Empire. This book was wonderful. I would definitely recommend it to all YA readers as well as adult readers alike. I love the fact that Phil took this tale back into the Roman times and added elements of fantasy.A definite must-read.-Kitty Bullard / Great Minds Think Aloud Book Club

[lostinalibrary · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Prince Erechtheus is sent to Poseidia, the capital of the empire where he must remain until his 25th birthday. When a blind seer predict he will cause the downfall of AL-Jinn , the high priest of the Temple of Bel, Al-Jinn tries to sacrifice him. However, Kul-Kan, a priest from the the Temple of One rescues Erech at the last minute. Kul-Kan takes him to his temple where he hopes to keep Ereck safe. Unfortunately, Al-Jin doesn't give up easily and, although Erech makes a lot of new friends, his time in Poseidia is marked by constant threats to his life.Imperial Hostage, by Phil Cantrill is a new YA alternate history series and, if this first book is any indication it's gonna be a doozy of a series. Set in what feels like ancient Rome but with air ships and other technology, this book is a fast-paced adventure full of assassination attempts, martial arts, mythical beasts, and an Amazon princess, and a cliffhanger at the end.I quite enjoyed this book and highly recommend it for both teens and adults alike.

[tamelyn521 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed reading this book. The main characters were interesting. I look forward to reading the sequel.

[rosenectur · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

I received this book as a Library Thing Early Reviewer. This is the first stinker I've gotten. It's really hard for me to give a bad rating to something I got for free, but I have to be honest.To start with all the name are unpronounceable, and unmemorable. The character are flat. The main character Erech (which sound like you've hacked something up and are clearing your throat)is too modern, too much like an abused He-man you don't end up feeling for him despite his many trials. He always wins, always get the girl, and pretty much always gets his way. There are very little consequences for him, and after unpleasant things happen he rebounds shockingly fast.The setting of the book is confusing. With no map to reference to help us out either. Once again things seemed too modern to fit within the story. And it's all inconsistent.The overall plot/idea behind the book, which I am guessing is meant to span into more books, is a good idea. It just needed to be flushed out with details, character and dialogue that would be believable and consistent with the setting.If you're looking for something similar pick up Marion Zimmer Bradley's "Firebrand" or Stephen R. Lawhead's "Taliesin." Both are excellent reads.

[msellers_22 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Imperial Hostage Book 1 of the Destruction Trilogy by Phil Cantrill is the story of a young boy, Prince Erechtheus, who was sent to the ruling kingdom, Poseidia, as a “hostage” until his 25th birthday. In this society, the ruler of Poseidia requires the outlying provinces to send someone to the ruling kingdom as a hostage. They are kept there and educated in hopes that they will return home as ambassadors for the kingdom. They are educated by one of the Temples which there are three of, the Temple of Bel, the Temple of the One, and the Temple of the Sun. Erech originally was taken to the Temple of Bel. Shortly after his arrival a seer tells the Priest of Bel that Erech will be his downfall. This scares the Priest of Bel into attempting to kill Erech. His attempt fails because Erech is rescued by the Priest of the Temple of One. Erech is taken to the Temple of One but he is still a hostage. He spends his 13 years as hostage at the Temple of One learning all he can and trying to keep the Priest of Bel from having him assassinated.I know this is a very short description of the story and a lot more happens than what I have written but I couldn’t seem to find the right words to describe the story appropriately. All I can say is you should read it because it is a good story.When I first started reading it I didn’t think I was going to like it because I thought it was going to be more like a history book story even though it was stated in the Prologue that it was not but I discovered that it was far from boring history.

[dranea_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Being a prisoner is being a prisoner no matter how nicely someone treats you. Prince Erech learns this that hard way. Taken as a preteen from his home he is taken as a hostage until he reaches the age of 25. These hostages are kept to teach them about the Empire to be used as ambassadors or at least help to educate their homelands about the ways and history.When Erech first arrives, a prophecy is made about him. This prophecy leads him to be almost killed in a religious ceremony, naked and in front of the entire temple’s congregation. At the last second young Erech is saved from the dagger blade and whisked away to another temple in the Capital. Needless to say, after Erech’s less than friendly introduction to the people in the Empire, he distrusts all there, even those who came to his aid.After a time, Erech makes friends and even falls in love. But, nothing can ever be so easy and carefree. There are those who are jealous of Erech. His skills, his looks, and his disposition is desired by the women something to be wary of in the men. There are many things to learn here in the Empire, and one Erech learns quickly is to never let your guard down. More than one attempt has been made on his life, and unfortunately for him, there will be no shortage of continued tries. Will Erech survive to see his return to his kingdom and his family at the age of 25?It takes a lot for me to give a book 5 stars, but I believe this book has earned every one of them. I loved the plot, the characters, the twists in the story, and the relatability to everything that Erech is feeling and experiencing.The women in this story are just as fierce, important, and capable as the men – definitely a bonus for this reviewer. With this being said, none of the characters were cookie cutter figures. Some of them were definitely more powerful and gifted than others, but many showed faults, weaknesses, and times of bad judgment. I love the depth of the characters in this story.The different scenes and locations in this book were very vivid and full. I could easily imagine myself there without the author having to take forever to explain it to the reader (I do have a problem with those types of scenes as anyone who has read any of my reviews will know!!) Many of the places were quite beautiful and others quite creepy. I loved it.This book is full of action, fun, love, mystery, and friendship. The only thing else that was missing was the sequel for me to read once I finished this one!! By the way, did I mention I REALLY LOVED THIS STORY??

[crazyelizabeth · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

As a hostage Erech, is sent to Poseidia the The Capital of the Empire, to keep his nation in order. On arrival he is taken to the Temple of Bel where he is brutalised due to a prophecy. He is rescued by the High Priest of the Temple of One. Where he is brought up with kindness and respect. He makes friends with the other hostages and some of the “Homelanders”. He also travels around and explores the area around the city with his friends while learning important skills. Erech must also on numerous occasions outsmart attempted assination attempts from the Temple of Bel.It was quiet an interesting book, a fantasy that reminds me Ancient Greek Mythology and Atlantis. It is the story of growing up and overcoming challenges to become the person you are meant to be. However I didn't entirely agree with everything that was in there.I would recommend this book to any one who loves Greek mythology and stories about Atlantis. It would also be good for anyone who likes historical fantasy.

[lexi2008 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I received this book from LibraryThing Early Reviewers. Please ignore the cover, which is, I think, the world's ugliest cover. I couldn't stand looking at it the whole time I was reading the book. It looks like a third grader drew it. I believe the book is for YA audiences, but it is hard to tell, as there was some sexually suggestive content and quite a bit of gore. It covers the time that Prince Erechtheus of Attike' spends as a hostage in the kingdom of Poseidia. I wasn't really clear about WHY the various kingdoms send the hostages, but it seemed to be more like a foreign exchange program than an actual hostage situation, as the hostages were all educated and treated well, even given some measure of freedom. Erech is to stay from his 12th year through his 25th, and then he can return to his own kingdom to, hopefully, take the throne. He has many adventures as he learns and adjusts to his new home. The book, to me, was like a cross between the Harry Potter books (kids going away to be educated and learning about powers they didn't know they had) and the Clan of the Cave Bear series (the two are not set in the same time period, per se, but some of the elements remind me of Ayla's experiences). I liked it, but it wasn't great literature. It was mostly a series of different adventures that Erech and his friends experience, but they didn't seem to be connected by any overarching theme or really connected in any way. I think I received the second in the series to review also, but I'm not sure. If not, I'm not sure I would seek it out. Recommended for the younger set, with a warning about a couple of risqué scenes (not overly graphic, and probably not as bad as what is in most modern YA, but just in case parents are easily offended, I wanted to put that out there); recommended for those with an interest in light fantasy and/or Ancient Greek/Rome. I would imagine that those who like Rick Riordan's work might enjoy this book. I give it three out of five Whatevers.