The Kings Death

By Ed Cannon

The Kings Death follows the Illician Sillik as he follows up after his partial victory in The Kings’ Assassin over the dragons of Ynak and the forces of Peol. Seeking to gather more allies, Sillik recruits the aid of the fliers of Aceon and the schools of Salone, where his cousin is wed to the king. Attacked by the monstrous schula and other dark creatures, Sillik moves decisively to gather certain artifacts needed to fight against the demons being summoned. Meanwhile in Illicia, a coup that will further destabilize Illicia and force his supporters to flee for their lives is underway. Dark Masters of the council of nine rise to oppose Illician interests. The final battle approaches as both sides rush to complete their preparations for a war that could reshape the world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: May 31, 2019
• ISBN: 9781796019865

Ed Cannon

Ed Cannon grew up in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and graduated college with a BS in electrical engineering from Oklahoma State University. He is a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He moved to Kansas after college to get his first engineering job. His career has been associated with aviation and the certification of aircraft. He has a Third Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and taught for several years at a local YMCA. He enjoys camping, fishing, and photography. He is married to a Mechanical Engineer and his sons are both engineers. The original idea for this book began while in college. Fifty pages or so were written on an electric typewriter and then later transferred to a Apple IIe. From there, a printout of the story sat, collecting dust, until it was eventually scanned page-by-page and transformed into the story you see today.

Book preview

Copyright © 2019 by Ed Cannon.

Illustrated by: Jenny Wine

Library of Congress Control Number:   2019902697

ISBN:                  Hardcover                      978-1-7960-1987-2

                             Softcover                        978-1-7960-1985-8

                             eBook                             978-1-7960-1986-5

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 05/30/2019

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When I first started writing The Kings’ Assassin, I found a quote I thought was appropriate for these books: Those whom gods wish to destroy, they first drive mad by Longfellow. I think I’ve driven my family mad with my constant requests to read this and that—and tell me what you think. This book, therefore, is dedicated to my family: my sons, Matt and Miles; my wife, Vickie; and my sister, Julie.

Also, thanks to all the friends who read and enjoyed The Kings’ Assassin and provided comments. I hope you enjoy The Kings Death.

I also reserve a special thanks to Jenny Wine for another great cover and artwork.

The Illician Chronicles

The Kings’ Assassin (February 2018)

The Kings Death

The Kings Despair (Release TBD)

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1     The Aviary

Chapter 2     Choices

Chapter 3     The Schools of Salone

Chapter 4     Tensions

Chapter 5     Sunrise

Chapter 6     Grand Master of the Thieves

Chapter 7     Seduced

Chapter 8     The Flyover

Chapter 9     The Healing and Instruction

Chapter 10   Heads

Chapter 11   The Libraries of Sharonell

Chapter 12   Statues

Chapter 13   Maps

Chapter 14   First Blood

Chapter 15   The Hand That Holds the Sun

Chapter 16   A Bird Returns

Chapter 17   Augury Results

Chapter 18   We Leave

Chapter 19   Songs

Chapter 20   Opportunities

Chapter 21   Betrayal

Chapter 22   Fire

Chapter 23   Stabbing

Chapter 24   Court

Chapter 25   Saric Rish

Chapter 26   Mornings

Chapter 27   Found in the Forest

Chapter 28   The Gold Tower

Chapter 29   Planning

Chapter 30   The Camp of Salone

Chapter 31   Flee

Chapter 32   Seduction

Chapter 33   Honor among Thieves

Chapter 34   Arrival

Chapter 35   Secrets in the Dark

Chapter 36   Sillik’s Investigation

Chapter 37   Truth

Chapter 38   Used Clothing

Chapter 39   Special Request

Chapter 40   Found in the Desert

Chapter 41   Investigators

Chapter 42   Training

Chapter 43   Raid

Chapter 44   Punishment

Chapter 45   Thieves’ Guild

Chapter 46   Mind Battles

Chapter 47   The Storerooms

Chapter 48   Cornered

Chapter 49   Torture

Chapter 50   Wedding at the Bay of Felin

Chapter 51   Victim

Chapter 52   Attack

Chapter 53   Traps

Chapter 54   The Plan

Chapter 55   Embassy to Illicia

Chapter 56   Stories

Chapter 57   News of a Colonel

Chapter 58   Death of the Mistress

Chapter 59   Treason

Chapter 60   Plucked

Chapter 61   The Battle of Shelnor

Chapter 62   Revelations

Chapter 63   Denial

Chapter 64   Plans

Chapter 65   Punishment

Chapter 66   Embassy at Last

Chapter 67   Rescue a Colonel

Chapter 68   Aceon Weddings

Chapter 69   Claudett’s Response

Chapter 70   Connections

Chapter 71   The Soothsayer

Chapter 72   The Spy

Chapter 73   The Three Sisters

Chapter 74   The Killing Guild

Chapter 75   The Palace

Chapter 76   Black Fire

Chapter 77   The Library

Chapter 78   Inside the Hole

Chapter 79   The Vault

Chapter 80   Invade

Chapter 81   Mad Dash

Chapter 82   Entering the Desert

Chapter 83   Death in the Desert

Chapter 84   Battle Flashes

Chapter 85   Healing

Chapter 86   Entrance

Chapter 87   Canyons

Chapter 88   Exit Strategy

Chapter 89   All Things End

First Epilogue

Second Epilogue

Rendarick%20%20%20%20Margatha%20%20%20geneology%20r2%20pdf-1.jpgRendarick%20%20%20%20Margatha%20%20%20geneology%20r2%20pdf-2.jpg1_GS.jpg3_GS.jpg

The Seven Laws of Magic

1. Adept

2. Magic

3. Ritual

4. Sorcery

5. Conjuring

6. Wizardry

7. Augury

*A master of the seven can unite the separate energies. From the seven comes more.

The Seven Gods

Silvia

Thessius

Anette

Agnon

Mosas

Protos

Gaylana

The Nine Gods

Nameless

Soul Crusher

Sight Steeler

Mind Breaker

Seducer (Minerla)

Bone Sharpener

Shadow Stealer

Stone Breaker

Breath of Death

2.jpg

PROLOGUE

The Mapmakers

The Year 7070 (Fifteen Years Previously) in Illicia

N INE-YEAR-OLD SILLIK AND seven-year-old Jacqueline stared in wonder as the birds descended, hovered briefly above the Red Tower, and then landed on the wooden perches that had been erected for them.

Standing on the balcony of Sillik’s room, the two gaped at the men riding the strange birds.

How many are there? Jacqueline asked.

Sillik tried to count but couldn’t. Must be hundreds. Look! Some are carrying baskets! He pointed excitedly. Father says that’s where the surveyors and handlers ride. The surveyors draw the maps.

The birds are so pretty, Jacqueline exclaimed. Look at the colors. Reds and browns. Oh, look! A gold one. Did they fly all the way from Aceon?

Even the armor looks like feathers, Sillik exclaimed. I want armor like that! Look how the men move—like they fly themselves. See their bows? They’re so short. Not like the long bows we use on the city walls.

The birds must be twice as tall as father, and he’s tall, Jacqueline observed quietly. Why did your father tell us to watch from here?

Sillik shook his head. I don’t know. My brothers didn’t get told anything. They went hunting wolves last night. There has been a pack raiding the villages. I’m not old enough to hunt wolves. I’m better with the sword than any of my brothers, but they wouldn’t take me.

I know, silly. Jacqueline grinned. My father went with them. Boys get to have all the fun. She pouted and then asked, They aren’t going to—she bit her lip—to carry us away? Or take me away? To grow up in some foreign land?

No, we don’t do that, Sillik said with as much dignity as a nine-year-old could muster. I won’t let them, he added. Besides, I’m going to the Gold Tower next week. Father announced it. Said if I’m going to use magic, I might as well learn how to do it proper. He was proud … Sillik held his hand up and let silver fire engulf it for a moment. He was proud when I showed him. When he saw the disappointed look on her face, he added, You’ll get to come next year or the year after.

I can do magic too, Jacqueline bragged as she held up her hand up and let a single flame dance above her palm. It’s not fair. She stamped her foot. My father said I will never go to the Gold Tower.

You will, Sillik replied as he continued watching the birds and the riders. Father said something is going to happen, and anyone with a lick of skill will go or he will eat lizard hide. Look at those belts on the saddle. I want to fly like that.

Now you really are being silly. Jacqueline laughed, her eyes flashing merrily. Only Aceon gets the birds. Only Aceon gets to fly. Your father said so. That’s why we pay them for the maps. They make the prettiest maps.

The most accurate maps, Sillik corrected. Besides, Ynak has dragons that they fly on. I think we should fly.

The maps are pretty too, all those colors. Jacqueline said as she turned and stuck out her tongue at her cousin. I bet it’s stinky flying a dragon. It would be like flying a lizard. They’re smelly.

The colors tell you what the land is doing, Sillik explained as he ran his hands along the stone railing, the words tumbling over each other in Sillik’s excitement. Things like how tall it is or whether it has trees or grass and where the people live. Some maps will even tell you where the water is. Father says some places have water so cold it’s solid. The maps show that with white. Can you imagine water so cold you can hold it? Look! There’s father! He said he was going to greet the wing leader when he landed.

The maps are still pretty, Jacqueline protested. That’s a big bird, she observed as a golden bird with red highlights landed tenderly. As they watched, a man unbuckled his belts and slid down the side of the golden bird, dropping lightly to the surface of the tower.

That must be the wing leader, Sillik concluded. See! He’s shaking hands with father.

Your father is much taller. Jacqueline sniffed. And there’s Edwin. He always smells like lizards and wine. Oh, and Lady Charlesa is with them. She’s so pretty in her dresses. She always smells so good, like flowers in the early morning.

Sillik laughed. Father knew it would be that way. He said most birds can’t carry a heavy man. Why did Briana and Rebecca get to go with Father? Charlesa gets to go with Father everywhere. I wish he would marry her. I wish I could have gone with them. I bet Viktorie got to go with them. She’s going to be my watcher, at least for a while. Sillik’s words tumbled out in an excited rush. She gave me my apprentice robes yesterday. That’s why I’m wearing them. He proudly showed off the brown robes to his cousin.

Hush, boy, a stern voice scolded in a clipped tone from behind them, and Sillik turned to see Viktorie standing in her apprentice robes. Her dark skin contrasted sharply with her robes. From the way you’re talking, you would think you were some ignorant peasant and not a royal prince. Your father has his reasons. He suggested you watch from here because he knew you would be safe here. The birds can be dangerous. You saw the landing, something few others got to see. You’re closer to the birds than most of the city. And yet you complain?

Rats. It’s Viktorie, Sillik thought. She’ll never let me get closer to the birds. I have to find the red-beaked bird and touch it. He really wanted to fly on a bird but knew Aceon didn’t allow that either.

Viktorie, I beg your pardon, Sillik said as contritely as possible as he turned to face the woman. The prince shuffled his heels together with his toes pointing outward. Then, clasping his hands, he bowed to the woman, as he did to everyone in the Gold Tower. I meant no disrespect. I just felt my place should be with my father, so I can learn to be a wise leader like he is.

He’s trying to bluff his way out of this, Jacqueline suggested and then stuck her tongue out at Sillik again.

Shaking her head, Viktorie frowned in disapproval. She was a compact, stern woman. Her skin was darker than most because she was of nomadic descent. Today, like most days, her black hair was tied severely behind her head. She did not yet wear the hooped earring in the top of her left ear like full gold robe initiates. Diamonds tattooed on either side of her forehead emphasized the nomadic tradition into which she had been born. She also never discussed why she was the only nomad to ever enter the city.

You will learn by obeying and watching, young prince. You are the youngest son. You must learn to obey and serve. Your place is not to lead but to obey. You will not be the king. You must learn this.

Yes, Viktorie, Sillik said as he bowed again. But Father says I could be a battle lord. I would lead then, wouldn’t I?

Viktorie paused. Well, yes, you would lead then. But even battle lords have to follow orders.

Yes, Viktorie, Sillik replied glumly.

Miss Jacqueline, Viktorie said as she turned and eyed the girl. I will be raised to master soon. If you can pass the tests, I will see to it that you go to the Gold Tower. Your father will be able to say little. Her eyes flicked over Sillik and Jacqueline. Now, don’t you both have classes to attend? I know Sillik is due in Swords. Where are you supposed to be?

I am attending Lord Clement in Prayers this morning, Jacqueline replied, wrinkling her nose. I don’t like prayers. The oils smell funny.

Viktorie permitted herself a small smile. Perhaps they do. But neither one of you should be late. I suggest you hurry. Lady Charlesa will be attending prayers this morning, to light a candle for her father. He is in ill health. You should not be late.

Yes, my lady, the two said together as they darted toward the winding stairs at the center of the tower. Sillik led them down five rotations of the stairs but pulled Jacqueline aside as they reached the landing of the bridges level.

Come with me, Sillik hissed, his voice breaking with excitement.

What? No! Jacqueline objected as she realized where Sillik was pulling her.

We’ll just walk across the bridge, Sillik explained bravely. We were on our way to classes and saw the landing and had to get a better look.

Sillik, no. We can’t. Those birds will eat us, Jacqueline whined, her voice rising in concern. Your father and Charlesa will be mad.

No, they won’t. See, some have already been hooded, just like we hood falcons. They can’t see us.

I don’t know. Jacqueline whined.

Well, I’m going to go see them, Sillik announced as he turned and strode past the guards and onto the bridge. I have to. Halfway across at the defensive break point, Sillik turned and waved for Jacqueline to follow. When she stepped out, he jumped lightly on the break point. See? The pins are in place. It won’t break and kill us.

Shivering, Jacqueline followed, careful to stay in the center of the arching stone bridge. I’m afraid of the bridges. They have no railings, and it’s windy.

A gust of wind howled across the bridge. Sillik crouched low and squinted, but the wind caught Jacqueline’s dress, and she lost her footing and slipped. She slid a few feet toward the edge before the wind died down and she came to a stop. She lay there, not moving, with a foot dangling over the edge. She whimpered as tears streamed down her face.

Sillik charged toward her. You all right? he asked.

No, I’m not all right! she wailed as she wiped her tears.

Shh. Sillik cast a quick glance back at the guards. They seemed preoccupied with something else, but a wailing girl might change that. Those guards might hear you. Let’s get off the bridge, Sillik suggested, pulling her away from the edge and helping her up. He dragged her by the hand the rest of the way across the bridge toward the birds.

They stopped before a large bird with a sharp red beak. The bird’s hood was still hooked to the saddle. Sillik grinned. With a shriek, the bird jumped from the log structure on which it had been standing to the top of the keep.

Sillik, don’t, Jacqueline hissed as she tried to pull him away from the bird.

The young boy pulled out of her grip as he watched the bird.

The eyes of the bird locked onto Sillik and followed him as he moved. It cocked its head and bent over so its head was close to Sillik’s head.

Smiling, Sillik confidently stepped forward and stroked the beak of the bird.

Curious, the bird looked at him and blinked an eye.

Emboldened, Sillik scrambled up the perch and jumped so he could get a foot in the stirrup of the saddle.

Whoa, there, young master, a deep sonorous voice warned as one of the riders strode over, grabbed him from behind, and pulled him down and away from the bird.

Sillik squirmed around, and his heart sank as he saw it was the wing leader. Worse yet, his father was right behind the wing leader. The birds are dangerous. You need to be careful around them, the wing leader lectured.

The red-beaked bird ruffled its wings, straightened, and then split the air with an ear-shattering shriek.

Sillik, you were told, Saldor growled. And, Jacqueline. I’m disappointed. I expected better of you. The king grumbled as he herded the children away from the birds.

It’s quite all right, the wing leader assured everyone as he laid a hand on the king’s arm. No harm was done. Although I have no idea why, he added with an apologetic smile. The man absentmindedly rubbed a scar on the back of his hand.

Sillik stared for a moment, surprised that the man had only four fingers. The fifth appeared to have been torn off at the knuckle. Torn or bitten? Sillik wondered.

The boy should have been attacked. But it’s all right. No harm done. We got here before further mischief occurred. That took some bravery though, lad.

Foolish is more like it, Sillik’s father muttered angrily. Domarick, this is my youngest son Sillik and my niece Jacqueline. Sillik and Jacqueline, this is Domarick, Wing Leader of Aceon.

I’m pleased to meet you, sir. Sillik smiled with a head nod to the wing leader.

Now, what in the nine hells were you trying to do, Sillik? Sillik’s father demanded as he turned to face his youngest son. What were you thinking? Do you want to die? That beast could have ripped your head off.

It was Lady Silvia, Sillik reported as he defiantly stuck his chin out. She told me to see the bird with the red beak. She told me I would ride its son if I touched the bird.

Charlesa, the king’s companion, stood calmly behind the king in a green dress that seemed molded to her slender figure. Taller than the king, with auburn curly hair, she smiled slightly and winked at Sillik.

What! Sillik’s father scowled in a disbelieving tone. Lady Silvia told you all that, did she?

Yes, Father, last night, Sillik answered calmly. She told me that she had spoken to you about allowing me to watch the landing. She made me promise to tell the wing leader that Red Beak here will lay an egg, and the chick will be named Red Wing. It is imperative that the bird be named that and is trained to be the finest mount in the city. She also explained that he might become my bird. Jacqueline heard it too.

I did, my lords, Jacqueline reported with a glare that said, Why did you have to drag me into this?

Preposterous, the wing leader sputtered. We don’t let outsiders ride. Even friends and allies do not get that privilege. Although Red Beak did treat you like a rider. But no! It is not possible. But if Lady Silvia said—no. It could not be. We wouldn’t.

Sillik smiled as he observed the wing leader. The man was lean and strong with a thin blade at his side. His brown hair was streaked with gray and rather short. His armor was crafted of leather in overlapping layers that appeared wing-like, with traces of magic that even Sillik could see. Sillik wondered what the magic did as he looked up at the man.

Domarick, Saldor explained, you should understand. For some reason, only the seven know why, Lady Silvia has taken an interest in the two of them recently. Perhaps because they both have burgeoning abilities with the seven laws. Gods above though, I don’t know why she would have any other interest in children.

When did she appear to you, Father? Sillik asked, his curiosity raised. I mean the first time.

When I was a boy, Saldor retorted slowly. His eyes narrowed, and he cocked his head as if to look at his son in a new light.

Does she appear to my brothers? Sillik asked with an innocent smile. Does he know? Sillik wondered. Silvia answered that question, but does he know?

I don’t know, Saldor admitted quickly with discomfort. She never appeared to my brothers.

Jacqueline’s eyes widened as she realized the possible implications.

Ah, good Edwin. Saldor waved as he changed the subject, glaring at his son. Allow me to introduce Edwin, the sword master of Illicia, and Briana, his star pupil.

Domarick nodded and stroked his chin, but he was still looking at Sillik. With a jolt, Domarick smiled and bowed to Briana. My apologies. We have ridden high and far to arrive today. I am tired. Please forgive my inattention. He added a curt nod to the sword master, who frowned in irritation.

Then turning to Briana, he added, I am impressed. Not many women aspire to the sword in Aceon. My sister, though, is an expert with knives. She is a rider and wins the knife throwing competitions every year.

Briana looked a little ill and asked, while riding a bird?

But of course, Domarick laughed. That makes it dangerous.

Briana nodded with a sick smile. That sounds—exciting. Be welcome to Illicia, my lord. May you always find shade.

Grinning, Domarick glanced up at the sun. Yes, shade. It is ghastly hot. Is it always this hot?

Briana sighed. My lord, it is morning. This is the coolest part of the day.

Ah, yes. That makes sense. We were told to travel at night as much as possible and camp only on stone.

Camping on stone was for your protection, Briana replied. Surely you were told about the sandfish.

Yes, yes. I just wasn’t sure something that terrible really lived. Domarick shivered said with a distracted wave.

They are real. Saldor grumbled.

Sillik looked at the two women. Briana had a worried scowl on her face, but Rebecca looked happy about something. She caught Sillik’s eye and winked.

Sillik lifted his chin and smiled slyly. Wing Leader Domarick, I greet you and wish you will forever find shade, he added, invoking an Illician blessing. I was told that Domarick was the name of the Prince of Aceon. Are you he? Or is there another with the same name?

Saldor glanced around. Sillik, you will keep your mouth shut. Gods alone know how you figured that out. Prince or not, if you don’t, so help me you will regret it. He added in a low, angry tone, There is more here than just mapmaking. We will explain later. He said as he glanced at the bird.

Sillik smiled and bravely looked at the wing leader again. I take it from my father’s response that you are the Prince of Aceon.

Domarick laughed and pulled on his armor. May you, my young prince, forever find steady winds. As to your question, well … He stroked his chin. I cannot deny that I am the Prince of Aceon. My wife, the Queen, rules the city, and I lead the wings. But, lad, but no one is supposed to know I am here or why. Domarick turned to face Sillik’s father and grinned. I wager you have trouble keeping any secrets at all.

Sillik noticed that Briana’s scowl had deepened; she looked worried as she glanced at the king.

Saldor looked at his son and said carefully. Sometimes, it depends. Sillik here can see the truth of things before anyone I know. Jacqueline shows the same ability. My other sons, not so much. But let’s go and talk privately while the mapmakers begin their work.

Perhaps the children should be sent to their classes or services, Charlesa suggested. I will have to leave for morning prayers shortly, so you men can have your talks and drink. I had Nisha, lay out some red wines for the occasion.

Saldor nodded. That is a good idea, my lady, thank you. I could use a drink this morning. Children, attend your lessons, or we will have a problem. Stay away from the birds and please do not speak about what you have seen and learned. You might not be so lucky next time. Gods those beasts scare me. Why can’t everyone ride lizards?

Sillik bowed at the dismissal and said, As you command, Father. Then he took Jacqueline’s hand and led her away slowly as he continued to listen.

If she is as good, Domarick wondered, perhaps we should talk marriage possibilities. I have a son, Lysander. He is about the same age as your son there. He is a good, strong boy. He will be powerful with the seven laws.

Saldor laughed as he marched across the bridge. Perhaps, perhaps.

Domarick looked back at Sillik and added, Your youngest son, you say. Your fourth son. Hm, I have a daughter, and my wife has several nieces in the nest. They will be need husbands one day.

Now it was Saldor’s turn to laugh. When the time comes, perhaps. For now, we will let the children be children.

Sillik glanced at Jacqueline as they crossed the bridge again. After a moment, he spoke quietly. See, they didn’t carry you away.

Pursing her lips, Jacqueline took Sillik’s hand and complained, No, but marrying me away without asking is almost as bad. I know what princesses have to do, and I will do my duty, but it’s scary to think about. If I get married away, will you come visit me? Come and tell me stories about home?

I will. I promise, Sillik vowed. But they spoke of me as well. I have that to look forward too as well. He exhaled loudly. Especially if I stay here.

Shocked, Jacqueline looked up. "What does that mean? What does if mean?"

Sillik! Saldor bellowed. Your lessons! Hurry!

Changing his mood quickly, Sillik laughed and pulled on Jacqueline’s hand. They ran into the tower and down the central staircase. At the ground floor, Sillik stopped and said, I wonder what the mapmakers are really doing.

Your father said not to discuss this, Jacqueline muttered with a worried expression.

He told us to not to speak about what we learned. Clearly, we both know what we learned. Why can’t we discuss it with each other? Sillik questioned.

You’ll be late for swords if you stay here much longer. Do you remember what happened to your brothers when they were late? The weapon master had them running the parapets of the city every day at dawn for a month. In a deep voice, she tried to imitate the weapon master. To teach you how to run and the importance of being on time.

Sillik smiled and turned to go. But I can tell Holden I was doing what my father and the gods commanded.

Laughing, Jacqueline observed, And you would be lying, cousin.

Not at all. Sillik grimaced. In politics, that would be telling the truth.

The two heard foot steps behind them and they turned to see Rebecca following them down the stairs. Quite true, my young prince. But right now, you do have somewhere you must be, and you should not stretch the truth like that unless you have to. Lady Jacqueline, you will come with me. Sillik, your father sent me to make sure you got to your class with the weapons master. This way. You are late already, and Holden will be upset with you, despite what you say. He may have you running the parapets, despite your claims of royal business.

Yes, Healer Rebecca, the two cousins mumbled in unison as they turned to face the woman. Rebecca was dressed in her customary gold cassock. At her waist was a curved black knife, and a blood-red emerald hung from the slender gold chain connecting her earring to a delicate ring in her nose. As was customary for healers, she also had a pale blue hem on her gold robes and wore the healing hand, the sign of the healers on a stickpin near the collar of her dress. Her red hair was tied behind her head and fell in curly waves on her back.

Lady Rebecca, Sillik grinned as he bowed again.

Rebecca laughed and looked around. I know you have questions, and I will answer some of them. Your father said to talk to you. But I will cast a warding around us. You may not discuss this with anyone else besides your father and myself. But even I do not know the full story, she said as her fingers moved and a silvery net settled around the three. It vanished quickly, but Sillik felt the subtle pressure of the warding.

Your father and several in the Gold Tower believe dangerous times are ahead for your family. Lady Silvia has foretold great events are unfolding. Your father is merely trying to meet various leaders. He has been communicating with Aceon for several years. He thinks it is important. The crown prince is here so they can talk privately and get to know each other.

Your father sees plots everywhere, Jacqueline observed with a smirk. Papa says nothing ever happens, and your father is just imagining things.

Sillik nodded thoughtfully but did not say anything.

Rebecca eyed Jacqueline and added, You must not speak of this to your father. Can you do that? It is the king’s order.

Wide-eyed, Jacqueline nodded solemnly. I have never kept a secret from my father.

Rebecca nodded. This time you must. The king asked you to keep his little secret.

I can do it, Jacqueline decided as she nodded her head.

Rebecca paused and then eyed the prince before continuing. It is nothing more than a meeting that both leaders wish to keep quiet. Aceon keeps itself neutral because of the banking guilds they guard. We keep ourselves unfettered because of our role in the world. No one would be happy if a treaty of any kind between Illicia and Aceon were announced. All the other cities would fear that we would get birds.

Is the mapmaking just a ruse? Sillik asked with a frown.

Rebecca laughed. No, that is true. The last time Illicia purchased maps was in the time of your great-grandfather. Maps need to be updated from time to time.

Turning to face Jacqueline, Rebecca added, Now, I believe you are due to carry the oils for Lord Clement at morning prayers, young lady. You will need to hurry. He will be in the Gold Tower sacristy. This service is important to Lady Charlesa. I will escort your cousin to Master Holden.

Yes, Rebecca. The girl smiled as she skipped away.

As soon as she was out of sight, Sillik rounded on Rebecca. What is the real reason? he demanded.

Rebecca laughed delightedly and clapped her hands. What makes you think there is another reason? Come. Let us walk.

Sillik watched Jacqueline skip away for a moment before he turned. Everything is more complicated than it appears; you taught me that the Bard DeChance always said that.

Turning serious, Rebecca nodded. Indeed, it is more complicated. They are talking about an agreement of some sort.

A treaty, Sillik nodded, slowly as he bit his lip. What does Aceon want?

We don’t know for sure, Rebecca answered slowly. I mean, your father and his council have ideas. But it was the prince’s idea to come here.

His idea. He must want something badly.

Indeed, Rebecca concluded. But your father has his reasons too.

What does Illicia have that they don’t? It can’t be money; they have the banking guilds. We have magic, but we don’t teach outsiders. They can go to the Schools of Salone for that. Do they want healers? Illician healers are the best in the world. What do we want? Are we going to ask for birds?

Slow down, young man. Rebecca laughed. There is a list of things we could ask for, depending on whether we have what they want, Rebecca said. Ah, the training ground. Master Holden does not look happy. Go join the class, and I will speak to your instructor and try to smooth your tardiness. We can talk more later.

Lady Rebecca, Sillik said uncomfortably, Does Lady Silvia appear to my brothers? Father didn’t really answer my question.

Rebecca eyed Sillik for a moment. I do not think she does, she answered simply.

Is it odd then that she appears to me? Sillik wondered. Does it mean something?

You have the magical ability. That is all it may mean, Rebecca theorized. Now go to class.

Healer Rebecca? Sillik began.

Yes, my prince? Rebecca answered.

Could we talk about this some more tonight?

Rebecca smiled. Not tonight, young one. I’m going to hear a bard tonight. He’s going to retell some DeChance stories.

Very well, Sillik said dejectedly.

Perhaps another night, Rebecca suggested.

Thank you, Healer Rebecca, Sillik said excitedly as he formally bowed to the woman. Then he turned and ran onto the training ground. He stopped briefly to pull off his boots and grab a training sword. The class had already started, and they were doing sword forms. Without a pause, Sillik stepped into place beside his brothers and flowed into the form.

CHAPTER 1

The Aviary

Three Months Previously in Aceon (Year 7085 in Illicia)

L YSANDER, PRINCE OF Aceon and wing master of the queen’s defense, rode his bird, Wind Slayer, gliding between the towers of his city. He grinned as the bird swerved into the green aviary and back-winged, landing gently on its perch. Behind him, the rest of his wing landed quickly, with the clatter of talons striking the wooden perches and the whoosh of the giant wings.

Pausing to count, he nodded in satisfaction when he got to twenty. Everybody is home, he thought. His wing flew unscheduled patrols and backfilled other patrols wherever they were needed.

Lysander was pleased to see the aviary seemed to be running well. Handlers had approached all of the birds, and the riders hooded the birds with practice as they slid down the side of the majestic animals. All of the riders unbuckled the cinches that attached the riding saddles to the birds and removed them quickly. Then the riders proceeded to tie the perch leads to the ankle rings on each bird.

Lysander was no exception. Taking care of one’s bird was a lesson pounded into every flier. In the field, there were no handlers and no aviary.

Later, when the birds were in their normal perches, they would be unhooded, fed, and watered.

Finishing his checks, Lysander turned to his wing second. Severy was a muscular man with a wide face, and like most riders, he wore his hair long and tied back. Severy’s armor was hardened leather that had been dyed a dull red, and it creaked as he moved. As wing second, he wore half a feather on his shoulder.

We’re going to fly late watch in two days, Lysander explained. We will go over the preflight tomorrow afternoon. He stopped at a basket and picked up the patrol reports from the last day.

Severy nodded. I’ll tell the wing.

Lysander grinned. Remind them not to get in trouble tonight. It doesn’t look good when I have to get them out of the constable’s lockup. Lysander quickly opened the reports and scanned through the contents.

Grinning, Severy said, I will try.

On the third report, Lysander stopped and whistled.

What? Severy asked. Something interesting?

Lysander handed over the report, and Severy read quickly. Flimsy information. It’s third hand. But if you can’t trust a knight of Nerak, who can you trust? On the other hand, it’s Coldbern’s wing.

It feels correct, Lysander said hesitantly as he thought about the information he had been given.

Do you have another source? Severy asked. Why do I even ask? You usually have other sources.

Lysander glanced around and then nodded.

The one you can never name, Severy guessed. The one who’s always right?

You know I’m not going to answer that, Lysander said with a worried expression.

Severy nodded. Someday you will have to tell me who she is.

You don’t want to know, Lysander said grimly. I’ll have to report this to my mother.

Yes, Severy agreed. But I suggest you leave off the second source.

Agreed. Lysander nodded.

In the meantime, I’m going to find a tavern and get reacquainted with the bottom of a wine bottle. Sedinia won’t be back from her patrol for another week. Severy laughed. You can go be serious with your mother.

It looks even worse if the wing leader has to get the wing second out of the constable’s lockup, Lysander added with a knowing grin.

Severy laughed. You know me.

Lysander looked sideways at his wing second and said, Yes. Yes, I do.

When Severy left and Lysander’s bird was rolled away on the movable perch, Lysander stepped to the ledge of the aviary, took a deep breath, and looked out over the city.

Aceon was sometimes called the bottomless city. A cataclysm eons ago had produced cliffs that were thousands of lengths tall. Towers grew out of the cliff face like limbs on a tree. At the base of the cliffs was a deep, cold lake. There were no true streets around the base of the towers—hence the nickname. Narrow, arching bridges linked the towers and linked the towers to the cliffs.

The security-conscious banking guild had gravitated to the cliffs due to the obvious and daunting security of the high cliffs. The guilds burrowed deep into the rock to secure their vaults. When the migrating herish arrived, the potential was obvious. The herish were captured, somewhat domesticated, and then used to provide security to the growing city.

The herish towered over the men and women working in the aviary. The smallest bird was roughly twice as tall as a man, with a wingspan as wide as four men were tall. They had long, curved beaks and talons as long as a man’s forearm. Their feathers varied from browns to reds. The females tended toward browns, while the males had more colorful patterns.

Riders mounted on the herish flew in and out of the cavernous perches. Depending on their size, speed, and strength, the birds were assigned duties. About half of the birds wound up flying patrols. The rest were either couriers or cargo.

Birds screeched and hooted on all levels of the aviary. Rising thermals allowed the patrols to circle upward above the cliffs so the riders could watch the ground approaches to the city.

The towers bristled with catapults and ballistae. Aceon had been besieged twelve times in the last hundred years, and the Cliff Fliers of Aceon were determined that there would not be a thirteenth siege. The fliers had a monopoly on herish, the birds they flew, and others wanted wing power. Most just wanted the gold in the vaults of the banking guilds.

The city was proud of the fact that armed intruders had never achieved a foothold in the city.

Lysander turned and walked toward the aviary’s exit as students pushed large, creaking carts full of caged rats. The din was loud as the animals squealed in fear. The apprentices stopped before each bird and with thick leather gloves drew out a squirming handful of fur. There was an art to feeding the birds. The rat had to be tossed to the hungry birds just so. The bird had to be able to catch the meal with just a little stretch of its neck. The bird couldn’t leave the perch. If the bird left the perch, it could miss the rat or get injured. If the rat escaped, the cats would catch it, and that would be messy. If the bird tried to chase the rat, it could get injured or injure an apprentice or other birds. Birds had also been known to fight over the rats. A bird fight in the aviary would result in lots of injured birds. Before apprentices were allowed to feed the birds, they had to practice tossing weights at a moving target. To be certified to feed the birds, it took fifty consecutive perfect tosses.

Suddenly, the sound of thunder tore through the aviary. What in the hells? Lysander thought. I know what that means. She was right! Another rumble of thunder rolled through the aviary.

Lysander ran toward the sound. Where would that bird be?

Lysander burst into the aviary one level lower and saw one of the wing leaders slap a young man.

Remey, where is my bird? Where is Red Wing? the wing leader demanded with a dangerous edge to his voice. You must be the world’s smallest idiot.

The wing leader, whose name was Petrer, was a solidly built man dressed in lightweight fabrics and leathers. A long, slightly curved blade was at his hip on a blood-red belt, and he wore a leather chest plate that bore the carved leather feathers of his rank. You incompetent fool, where is my bird? he yelled as he looked around. What caused that thunder?

Remey’s head whipped as the wing leader slapped him again with his gloves.

Answer me, you incompetent fool! Petrer demanded.

Please, Wing Leader, Remey panted, pointing at the perch in disbelief. My lord, he stammered as blood dripped down his chin, the birds were ready, and then they were just gone. They jumped into a giant hole in the sky. Please don’t hit me again.

And my bird went with him, the wing second, Artimus, scoffed as he stepped forward angrily. Tell me the truth, the wing second demanded as he stood next to Petrer. You let them fly off. Remey, you deserve to be whipped if you lost our birds. I trained my bird since he was a chick.

Lost birds have to be recaptured or killed. Aceon law is very firm, the wing leader spat angrily. No one can have those birds. Are you responsible for the deaths of two birds?

Lysander stopped in the entrance and watched. Figures Petrer’s bird is missing.

Remey stuttered and looked wildly at the wing leaders.

What seems to be the trouble in here? Jacob, the aviary master, demanded as he shuffled into the room. Jacob was a short, round man. The knee of his right leg didn’t bend, so he limped a little as he moved. His apron straps seemed to cut into him as he shuffled forward.

Your journeyman, Artimus began, anger causing his voice to crack. He folded his arms across his chest and looked down at the aviary master. He lost our birds.

The aviary master held up his hand, demanding silence. Yes, yes, I have already heard your thoughts, and I would appreciate it if you would not strike my journeymen. Jacob stuck a finger in his ear and twisted. He spat on the floor as he looked at the wax on his finger and then at the wing second. I s’pect everyone in the perch heard you as well. Since Remey was the one here, I want to hear what he saw.

Master Jacob, the wing leader protested in a voice that was lower but almost pleading. My bird.

Yes, yes, I know, Wing Master, Jacob responded quietly. But I saw Remey bring the birds down from their perches. He did it right; this ain’t his first day in the perch. No journeyman of mine has ever lost a bird. Now, Remey, tell us what you saw.

Master Jacob, Remey gushed, the birds. They fell into a hole in the air. There was light like lightning, and then the air seemed to tear apart. There were a lot of colors, and then the birds just jumped into the hole. Then the hole closed with thunder. The birds were just gone. And look: their leads are still where I tied them. It was like an eye opened and took them.

You lying whelp, you didn’t tie their leads, and you let them fly off. I’ll have you flayed. The wing leader swore as his face turned redder with anger.

Now, Wing Leader, Jacob said slowly as he scratched his arm. What Remey says doesn’t sound like something he could make up. He’s a good man and doesn’t lie. I myself heard some thunder a short time ago, and the sky is clear. It ain’t raining out or you would be wearing your oilskins. So, I have to wonder. Could he be tellin’ the truth about what he saw? And Remey is right; their leads are tied off proper like. Jacob pointed at the rings near the base of the perch.

The wing leader turned in surprise. He walked over to examine the leather lead.

Don’t touch that, Lysander commanded as he stepped fully into the aviary. Turning, he closed the doors to this level of the keep.

Everyone turned to the sound of footsteps. The wing leader froze and then backed away.

Prince Lysander? the wing leader acknowledged with a frown. This is a wing issue. You shouldn’t trouble yourself.

And yet, Lysander said angrily, if it affects the wings, as wing master of Aceon, then I should perhaps be involved. Don’t you agree?

Well, Petrer began.

Lysander ignored the man and explained, I just landed and was walking by when I heard the thunder and your voices. Pausing to remove his flying jacket, he laid the leather jacket purposefully, with purple leather feathers on the shoulder in full view. Placing one hand on his sword, he brushed his braided hair behind his head with the other. If it concerns the loss of birds, it concerns me. But thank you for your concern. Now, let me see these leads, Lysander commanded as he knelt beside the grooming perches.

My lord, this man is lying, the wing leader started. He is incompetent and should never have been promoted to journeyman. I blame the aviary master.

Be silent, Wing Leader, Lysander demanded coldly as he examined the ends of the leash. Damn, the ends are charred. Magic, Lysander thought. What’s that fool done now?

The wing leader, eyes rounded in surprise, looked at Remey and Jacob accusingly but kept his tongue silent.

When Lysander stood, he announced, Magic has been used. Tell me what happened!

Heads and eyes slowly turned to the aviary master.

Jacob nodded as he rubbed his hands together. My journeyman saw it all. It’s okay, Remey. Tell the prince what you saw.

Remey nodded and swallowed nervously. His voice was suddenly two or three octaves higher. My lord, I had finished saddling the wing leader’s birds. I had polished their saddles and buffed their talons, just like the wing leaders like. I was done with the birds. They were there on their perch, just like the wing leaders like. I knew they would be coming for their birds. I took care of them proper.

Lysander nodded. I am sure you did, Remey. What happened next? he asked in a gentler tone.

Nodding, Remey continued. I saw a lightning, and the air ripped open. The birds were on the perch together. The hole was big. Red Wing and the wing seconds bird just looked at the hole and jumped into it. I saw blue sky in the hole. Then the hole closed with more thunder. I had to hold my ears. It was loud. The birds were just gone. Their leads where I tied them are still there. It was like an eye opened. My lord, was it an evil eye. Are the nine dark ones coming?

Thank you, Remey. You have done well. The loss of the birds is not your fault. It wasn’t a evil eye, Lysander said as he glanced at the wing leaders meaningfully. Now bring down two more birds and saddle them for the wing leaders. They’re late for their patrol. Jacob, could I have a word?

Of course, my lord, Jacob replied with a smile as he shuffled forward.

Wait, that’s it? the wing second protested. What about our birds? Someone should be whipped. Your father would never have tolerated incompetence like this.

Lysander looked at his wing leaders until they looked away. Gentlemen, my father, Domarick, has been dead for the last eight years. As you know, I am the prince until my cousin flies to the throne. I will not accept arguments that contain baseless assertions of what my father would or would not have done. As to your charge of incompetence, magic was used to cut those leads. A knife or a sword would cut cleanly. Those ends are charred from collapsing magic. Did you know that? Lysander paused angrily. No, I see that you didn’t. Remey, are you trained in the seven laws?

No, my lord, Remey answered.

Or you, Jacob? Lysander asked as he looked at the two wing leaders.

Would I be here if I was? Jacob answered with a laugh. I think I like the birds a bit better than dealing with that.

No, of course not, Lysander said with an annoyed tone. Now, wing leaders, Remey and Jacob had nothing to do with the birds’ disappearance and could not have prevented the disappearance from happening. I think I have indulged your questions long enough. I suggest you go pick your new birds. You’re already late for your patrol.

But … the wing leader started.

Lysander shook his head. Gentlemen, I suggest you go pick out replacement birds. I will not discuss this further. His face became like stone. Or I can reassign you to ground school with the new fliers.

Yes, my lord, the wing leader answered uncomfortably.

But who did this? Who can steal our birds with magic? the wing second asked. Was it a dark master like the runt asked?

Lysander sighed and gave the man a penetrating stare. The wing second averted his eyes and shuffled his feet nervously. That is my concern. Not yours. If the birds return, I want to know immediately. Oh, and one more thing, wing leaders, Lysander said with a frown. You will accept the birds as the journeyman prepares them. Neither of you will require any special grooming or other work ever again. Also, you will refer to the journeyman with his proper name or his title and not insult him. If you ever strike any member of the guild again, I will ground you for the rest of your lives. The guild cares for our birds, and we owe them our lives. By the gods, you will respect the guild. Do you understand?

The wing second stiffened and slowly nodded. Yes, my lord. As you say.

Lysander glanced at the wing leader, who also nodded after a moment.

Jacob, please walk with me, Lysander commanded as he turned back toward the inner wall of the perch.

Now, Jacob, Lysander said once the two men were out of the perch area, I need to keep this quiet. There are only a few people who know the way to summon a bird.

Aye, Jacob agreed as he coughed. My man will keep his mouth closed if I ask him to. He shuffled his feet nervously. I will tell you straight that I am uncomfortable doing this. The law is quite clear. Although I suppose I could delay for a few days …

I know you will old friend. Lysander nodded as he stopped and grasped the older man’s shoulder. I will speak to the wing leaders. I don’t want it known that someone has summoned a bird.

Jacob rubbed his chin thoughtfully. The queen always wants to know when a bird disappears; that’s why the law was written. I have to report it to the guild master. Both the birds were cocks, so it ain’t likely to stir much interest. Can’t make eggs without a hen. Eh?

I don’t think this is about stealing eggs or a mating pair of birds, Jacob. Magic was used. I only know of a handful of people who know how to open the air like that. Fewer still have the power to do it, and all but one are here in the cliffs.

Jacob nodded. I wondered if he knew the way to call them. I figured someone here taught him, my lord. Shame about what happened to your sister. I liked that young feller. Right nice to everyone, he was.

I will tell the queen, Lysander explained. Mother will want to know. I want my wings birds readied, just in case. I know they just flew, but we can’t be too prepared. Besides, we may have to go after the birds, Lysander added with a wink.

Jacob chuckled and cracked his knuckles. I will see to it, he said with a toothy smile.

Thank you, my friend. I must tell the queen. Lysander left. The prince of Aceon strode into the cliffs onto a wide bank of stairs that had been carved into the hallways. He took the stairs two at a time, lost in thought.

Prince Lysander approached the receiving room of his mother, the queen of Aceon. Guards in burnished mail stood on either side of the doorway. Their swords were precisely aligned on their backs. The halberds in their right hands glinted dangerously. Their boots were polished brightly and their red belts glowed. The chamberlain stood between the two guards. She was dressed in long, flowing red robes. Intricate gold embroidery flowed down her arms and seemed to imply wings.

Please announce me, Lydia, Lysander requested.

Lydia gave him a hard expression. The queen is consulting with the banking guilds. She said she should not be disturbed.

Lysander frowned. Mother will see me.

I do not think.

I think she will see me, Lysander repeated firmly.

Lydia frowned in disapproval, I will announce you. With that, the woman turned and opened the doors.

The receiving room was a rectangular shape about forty wings long by twenty wide. The walls were polished white stone. Streaks of other colors danced through the walls. Large beams of granite crisscrossed the arched ceiling. The ceiling was polished and designed to reflect the light. On the long sides of the room, holes in the walls about the size of a man’s hand allowed light from the mirrors outside the cliffs to enter the room. Convex mirrors beside the holes reflected the light toward the ceiling. The room had a warm golden glow despite the cold stone.

Queen Saskia, of the House Robund, sat on a raised dais at the far end of the room.

Six men were arrayed in a semicircle before the dais. The gold markings on their gray robes identified them as the leaders of the various banking guilds that controlled most of Aceon’s wealth. Guards in polished mail flanked either side of the dais, their hands resting on the hilts of their curved swords. They could have been statues if their eyes had ever stopped moving. His mother’s face was impassive, but Lysander could see the distrust and boredom.

Lysander’s tension and disgust rose when he saw Princess Janara, the queen’s niece and heir, standing behind the queen. Janara was wearing a pale green dress that seemed to move and shimmer when she moved. Her black hair was expertly curled and framed her face. Scheming bitch, Lysander thought.

In a loud voice, Lydia announced, Prince Lysander, wing leader of the queen’s defense, son of Queen Saskia, requests an audience.

A small frown crossed Queen Saskia’s face, and she straightened almost imperceptibly. Gentlemen, it seems my son has business with us. We should continue this wonderful discussion another time. Lysander, please approach us.

Lysander strode into the room and knelt on one knee. His right hand formed a fist on his chest, and he placed his left hand palm-down on the floor. The bankers nodded, frustration flickering across their faces. They made their courtesies and then strode out irritably.

Arise, Lysander, Saskia said as the doors closed. Janara—the queen waved—you may go too.

Janara curtsied, raised her chin stiffly, As you wish, my queen. As she passed Lysander, she nodded to the wing leader and said without warmth, Lysander.

Princess Janara, Lysander nodded respectfully as he turned to face his mother.

Janara departed slowly, anger covering her face.

The banking guilds get bolder every year, Saskia complained. My mother would not have tolerated their insolence.

What do they want, Mother? Lysander asked as he watched Janara’s back.

They want me to build them a new trading house on the other side of the lakes from Aceon, she said with exasperation. It will be expensive, and they want the crown to pay for the building and furnishing. Then they want the city to pay for the additional security. They think they can conduct more business without relying on the fliers to transport the trade representative to their chapter houses in the city.

Lysander frowned. That would complicate many things. Defense of the trading house would be difficult. It would be outside the range of the city’s defenses. The wings could of course overfly it, but actual defense would be difficult. The ground force would be significant and expensive. Why are they insisting on this? Are they angry at the tax increases that you have been talking about?

All the reasons I gave them, my son. Saskia adjusted her simple blue dress. Gaudy fashions had bypassed the queen of Aceon, who always wore a plain blue dress, the color of the skies. The fabrics were usually expensive silks or fine wool, but the style was always plain. She had only one other color in her wardrobe, black for mourning. It had only been recently that she hung up the mourning color and resumed her queenly blues. Her only jewelry was a fine gold necklace with a red diamond that hung just below her collarbone. The queen had been a beautiful woman whose beauty had become stately elegance. Her long hair, once black as coal, was now streaked with gray and silver.

What brings you to us this morning? Saskia asked. Whatever it is, I’m grateful for it getting me out of that meeting with those dreadful men. To make matters worse, I have to meet with the mushroom farmers later in the day. I think they eat too many of the ones that make them see things, because they want an exemption from my taxes. An exemption. Can you believe the audacity of farmers?

Lysander frowned. I’m not sure you’ll like the news I bring, Mother.

What news do you bring?

I have two pieces of news, Mother. The first is that I have information that Ynak and Peol have declared war on Nerak. Lysander paused. In addition, we have received word that dragons have been sighted.

That is dire news indeed, my son. She paused thoughtfully as she rubbed her hands.

The patrols have brought this news, Lysander continued. "They spoke to some traders who had