Chapter 3: Divine Summonings
Chambers of the Canon
Mitrik, Veluna
Canon Harfell sighed quietly as the evening wore on, the shadows deepening around the edges of his private office, banished only by the light of the candles affixed to the large golden chandelier above his desk. Adjusting the frames of his rounded glasses the balding man peered at the next report delivered by his clerk, his white and silver robes of office cinched tight around his slim form. The man who had replaced the venerable Canon Hazen after the war with Ivid and Iuz had inherited all of the man's cares and concerns regarding not only the ArchClericy of Veluna but the tribulations that had followed in the years after. Thankfully by the blessing of the gods Veluna had been relatively untouched by the great upheavals and the demonic war that had ravaged most of the continent. When the demons had ran roughshod over the cities of Furyondy to the east many believed that Veluna would be next. Knowing full well that the realm represented a source of great spiritual power it was, to many, an obvious enemy to attack while they still possessed great momentum and morale from destroying one of the largest kingdoms on the continent. Thankfully the gods had been merciful and the demons' forces had been destroyed but not before Furyondy had fallen. The rest of the kingdoms had since fallen on hard times as well and while the Canon had been sending some aid to the villages and towns closest to the ArchClericy's borders he had not gone farther as of yet, unwilling to spread his assets too thinly. Raids were a constant concern as desperate bands of refugees often attacked trading caravans for the goods inside, thus requiring him to maintain a military presence along the border and roads.
A quiet knock at his door interrupted his musings. Calling out to let the servant enter he continued reading the report as the man placed a piece of parchment next to him before bowing and making his way out. Barely paying the man any mind he reached over and picked up the piece of parchment, intending to quickly scan it for anything of importance before putting it aside.
The golden flash of divine energy that manifested as he touched the paper nearly made him fall out of his chair.
As he recovered from the shock the paper seemingly came to life as it folded and bent itself into a reasonable facsimile of Prometheus's draconic face before floating in front of him. The paper dragon's mouth opened and Prometheus's deep voice issued from it.
"Canon Harfell, allow me to apologize for the rather unorthodox means by which I contact you as you are no doubt unused to being spoken to by a piece of paper. However, I did not wish for my missive to get lost amongst the mountain of paperwork that undoubtedly fills your desk each day. As I hopefully have your undivided attention I will speak plainly and quickly as you are no doubt quite busy. As you are aware our world has been ravaged by the forces of Baator until fairly recently. Given the terrible state of many of the kingdoms it is my belief that the remaining leaders of this world must come together in person to meet and discuss the future of our various holdings and our world in general. With this I hope to create a neutral meeting place where discussions and grievances can be aired without the need for political posturing or back room meetings between agents. Our civilization was nearly exterminated because of our lack of cohesion and unwillingness to come together in order to face a common threat. We were fortunate this time but should an event of this magnitude ever occur again I fear we will not survive it if we remain as we are. Once my message is complete you may reply to it using this same piece of paper and the information written on it will be relayed directly to me. Additionally, please ensure that you keep this piece of paper on you at all times when you travel to the meeting place I will designate as it will be used to ensure your security and the security of others as well as grant you access to the meeting place. In addition to yourself I have also sent similar messages to the other kings and rulers of the realms and await their replies. Needless to say, the sooner this council of rulers can be convened, the better it will be for all as the people of this world suffer while authorities deliberate. I remain, Prometheus, God-Emperor of Utopia."
A moment later the dragon's head began to reverse the changes made to it until a crisp and flat piece of paper floated onto the Canon's desk, its edges glowing faintly. Sitting back in surprise at the communication the Canon pondered for several moments in silent thought before picking up his quill and scratching out a reply.
Palace of the Theocrat
Wintershiven, Theocracy of the Pale
"...With this I hope to create a neutral meeting place where discussions and grievances can be aired without the need for political posturing or back room meetings between agents-"
An enraged cry filled the air before a slim blade speared the floating paper dragon's head, slamming it into the Theocrat's desk, the piece of paper seemingly struggling to free itself from its impalement.
"HOW DARE THAT MISERABLE LIZARD ATTEMPT TO TELL ME WHAT I SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO!" He shouted, his face red with fury, as his advisers stood around him. "DOES HE THINK I AM SOME COMMON SERVANT FOR HIM TO COMMAND AT A WHIM?!"
"If I may, your Holiness," one of the advisers stated quietly, "he did seem to be making a request, not an order."
The Theocrat glared angrily at the man. "If you truly believe that then you are a bigger fool than I thought! Of course it is a command! No matter how coached in pretty language he still expects me to come as if I had no choice in the matter! The arrogance of that creature is beyond belief!"
"There have been rumors circulating amongst the heathens of the nearby realms that he has become a god my Lord." One of the others stated quietly. "If they are true-"
"You dare to speak such blasphemy in MY presence?!" The man cried angrily. "There is no god but Pholtus! All the other 'gods' are merely lesser beings or aspects of Him! Who else places the stars in the sky and moves the planets about in their place! Even the Sun obeys Him and it is supposedly under the command of 'Pelor'! Hah! And even if this creature had somehow gained more power or favor he is nothing to me!"
"Regardless my Lord his request does not appear to be unreasonable." Another suggested. "If the other rulers convene and we do not attend we miss an opportunity not only to gain favor with our neighbors but to learn about their plans for the future. Such information could be quite practical."
The Theocrat snorted at his, his fury slowly subsiding. "Please! The other nations are heathen at best! Only those who worship Pholtus in their lands are important to us and they do not command places high enough in government to enact or change policy. And even if we were to attend they will not reveal anything of importance. They will all agree to help out their 'poor neighbors in their time of trouble' and then go back to business as usual!" He mocked. "This meeting is nothing but a sham or a poor attempt for that retched lizard to gain more power and I refuse to bow to his will!"
"THEN BOW TO MINE!" Came a loud voice like thunder from everywhere at once.
The Theocrat's blood turned to ice in his veins as he spun, looking upon the giant statue of Pholtus that stood behind his desk. The tall and powerful figure which normally looked outward to those who entered the great room now stared downward balefully at the trembling Theocrat, the statue's eyes glowing with brilliant white light.
"ONCE AGAIN YOU IGNORE COMMON SENSE AND DUTY OUT OF YOUR INFLATED SENSE OF EGO AND PRIDE!" Pholtus admonished, making the man nearly wet himself in fear. "I HAVE SPOKEN WITH PROMETHEUS AND HE HAS SHARED HIS INTENTIONS WITH ME. I APPROVE OF HIS PLANS AND STAND BEHIND THEM FOR NOW. KNOW THAT TO REFUSE HIS SUMMONS IS TO DISOBEY ME!"
The status raised his head and the divine essence left it, becoming normal stone once more. The room was silent for several seconds as the others waited for something else to happen before the Theocrat sat heavily at his desk, his hands still trembling in fear.
"Perhaps it would be best if you replied positively to the letter my Lord." One of them suggested softly.
Regaining his wits the Theocrat glared at the man in annoyance. "How I ended up with a bunch of empty-headed fools such as yourselves for advisers I will never know." He stated acidly before picking up his quill and jerking the letter opener free from his desk, allowing the paper to continue speaking its message.
The Palace of the Overking
Kalstrand, Ahlissa
"...Needless to say, the sooner this council of rulers can be convened, the better it will be for all as the people of this world suffer while authorities deliberate. I remain, Prometheus, God-Emperor of Utopia."
Overking Xavener's eyes shone with delight as he watched the enchanted parchment unfold itself again. As it fell to his desk he laughed with delight, clapping his hands as if applauding a performance.
"Magnificent!" He exclaimed happily. "Ha ha! Never have I had such a lovely and entertaining invitation sent to me!" Taking hold of the paper he began to quickly write his reply.
"It has been too long since we've spoken my dear dragon and too much tragedy has happened in the world! No doubt you are stretched tighter than a drum with all that has happened!" He muttered fretfully to himself. "But never fear!" Xavener exclaimed. "I will help you to feel as right as rain again!" He promised with a laugh.
The former city of Dorakaa
"He is moving quickly." One of the dragons observed as the paper floated to the ground.
"I expected no less of him." Alsharak stated primly. "Send our reply immediately, we do not wish to keep him waiting."
"Do you think the lesser races will be pleased to know we are attending?" Another asked. "They can be fickle, especially with their short life spans. It will have been many generations since we walked among them, there could be distrust."
"Prometheus, from all accounts, has been providing a very good example for us." Alsharak replied. "I do not think we need worry. And if they do distrust us, what matter is that? They need us far more than we need them. Thus has it always been." He said with a self-satisfied tone.
House of the Lord Mayor
The Free City of Greyhawk
Nerof Gasgal pondered the letter that had just finished speaking of its own accord before him. His delicate fingers stroked his sharp chin in careful thought as he weighed the ramifications and implications of its contents. The former Oligarch of the city and master thief had not risen to his position by being incautious and the city would not have flourished over the last 30 years if his mind had been less keen. He knew of the Dragon Emperor and his little coup of course, the news had set the entire continent on its ear, and his part in the recent Demon War had only cemented the dragon as a powerful player in the realm of kings and rulers. Thankfully Greyhawk had been overlooked in favor of more obvious and easier targets; this city had always attracted the most powerful mercenaries of all types from across the continent, from the greatest of warriors and paladins to the most cunning of archmages and thieves. Assassins who had slain kings walked the streets alongside clerics powerful enough to grant miracles of all kinds through the benevolence of their gods, and that was only scratching the surface. Artifacts of incredible power switched hands constantly in the various marketplaces if one knew where to find them and the Circle of Eight, some of the most powerful wizards and warriors in known history, living legends who had spells and weapons named in their honor, stayed here on a fairly regular basis, though these days they were seen less and less. This city was a hub for those who held great power of all types and the demons had done well to leave them alone.
Now, however, now the various kingdoms were in turmoil with the exception of a few of them. Small though they were, the city had immense mineral and monetary wealth thanks to the mountain range nearby and their presence as a powerful trading city thanks to the massive Nyr Dyv lake and the River Selintan that flowed alongside them from the Nyr Dyv to the Sea of Gearnat. While the city was still doing well enough the various trade routes between the kingdoms had become rather disorganized due to the attacks though Ahlissa's traders were still going strong. Perhaps the Dragon Emperor had plans to address that…?
Tapping the feathered edge of his quill against his lips, the Lord Mayor finally placed the sharp edge of it against the paper and began to write.
The Lord Mayor's residence
City of Mowbrenn, Nyrond
"I trust you've had sufficient time to consider our offer my Lord?" The Terminator asked smoothly as he sat before the Lord Mayor of Mowbrenn in his office, his legs crossed with his arms resting languidly against the armrests of the plush chair.
The Lord Mayor glanced up in slight frustration at the air of smugness and superiority the person before him seemed to emit wherever he went. The Emperor's representative had been meeting with him and his advisers for over a week since their arrival. While the city had been holding together well enough under his leadership since the fall of the King and the remaining government, the cracks were beginning to show. While the farmland nearby which provided the city with all of its foodstuffs had not been damaged by the invading demonic hordes the swarms of refugees that had come clamoring at his gate in recent months had begun to strain the farms to the limit of their production. Additionally, every free space in the city was being taken by them and there were not enough jobs to go around, even ones as menial as sweeping the streets or carting away garbage. Small tent communities had begun to spring up around the city and the road which led to it, with the poor begging constantly to any who attempted to make their way into the city, not to mention the fact that food rationing was going to become a very real possibility soon. While there had been no incidents of violence yet, the man knew it was only a matter of time until someone's patience broke and blood covered the cobblestones. That could very well be the spark that would ignite a conflagration which could potentially consume the city. Unless something was done soon to alleviate the crisis, Mowbrenn would collapse under its own weight.
The fact that the Emperor's envoy was very well aware of this and was using it to his advantage only annoyed him further.
Oh the man had not been rude about it. In fact he had been the soul of discretion and charm, hinting at the various problems he had observed while on his journey there and commiserating with him on the people's plight as well applauding his own efforts to keep order. And yet, he could see the cold, calculating mind behind those sharp blue eyes, always reminding him that the envoy held the easiest and most convenient solution to his problems like a shiny apple in an outstretched hand. Whether the inside was poisoned or not he could only guess as Mowbrenn would need to give up being a city under Nyrond's banner and become a vassal city of Utopia, with all the laws, taxes, regulations, and shakeups that would go with it. It was, of course, not a simple matter of pride, though that did factor into his decision. After all, the city had been part of the kingdom's history for centuries and was proud of it. Their traditions and connection to the Crown as one of the major farming industries for the entire region made such a transition difficult. Not to mention the fact that no one knew how the Emperor would govern the city once it was his. They had heard stories of the wealth and generosity of the Emperor of course, after all, merchants traded between Utopia, Nyrond, and Ahlissa quite regularly and Nyrond was, or at least had been, allies with the new government after Ivid's fall. But the Lord Mayor himself had never been one for rumor and hearsay. History had shown him that regardless of whether one conquers by the sword or by honeyed word, one always ensured the loyalty of the newly conquered land by putting in charge those who were loyal to the conquerer, not the incumbent, regardless of how well they had performed in the past. Not that he was looking out for his own interests primarily but he did fear that a significant change in leadership could create more problems for the city and the people than they were willing to tolerate.
All of these thoughts had flowed through his head as he and his advisers had studied the Treaty of Suzerainty presented by the envoy after his arrival. The lengthy document had outlined in specific terms what the so called Suzerain, in this case the Emperor of Utopia, had done for Nyrond and its people as well as their former King; chief among them was the destruction of Overking Ivid, the Lich Iuz, and their army of undead as well as stopping the demonic invasion several years later before their people had become enslaved to either the Overking or the Demons along with the rest of Oerth. It then went on to state that the vassal should obey the stipulations presented in the treaty for the benefits that they received in the past. The treaty then stipulated the terms themselves, mainly that while the city and its environs would be allowed limited self-rule all the laws of Utopia that did not have equivalents in the city's current book of laws would be instituted immediately and that all taxations would be sent to Utopia with a portion remaining for the city's coffers. The Emperor would rule the city as he did any other city in his realm and would have full authority to exercise his will as he saw fit. All of this was to last for twenty years with the Treaty announced in the streets every two years to ensure the populace did not forget to whom their allegiance lay. At the end of the twenty years a popular vote would be taken by all the citizens to determine whether to become a permanent member of the Imperium or return to self-rule, assuming that Nyrond's government had not been reinstated within that time, in which case self-rule would be replaced with swearing fealty to the reinstated government.
Additionally, in order to confirm the binding connection between Utopia and Mowbrenn, the gods themselves would bear witness to the event and consecrate it. How the Emperor planned to accomplish this he was not sure but it was a minor concern to him at the moment. His advisers and himself had taken the time to read through the document in its entirety and while they were not exactly pleased with its overbearing tone they could hardly deny its contents nor did they find any serious concerns regarding what was expected of the city and its people. It was, in fact, surprisingly generous considering the Emperor metaphorically held all the cards yet it still rankled their sensibilities and stung their pride.
Sighing quietly the Lord Mayor focused his full attention on the envoy seated before him. "How many other cities have capitulated to these treaties?" He asked. "I seriously doubt you came only to us with these terms."
"You would be correct." The Terminator replied. "All of the major cities of the former kingdom of Nyrond have had visits from those like myself bearing the same treaty. As far as I am aware at this point in time, half have signed the treaty as presented while a few others are negotiating minor points. Thus far, none have refused." The machine said with a cool smile.
The Lord Mayor's blood ran cold for a moment at this. He is annexing us all, taking bits and pieces of us while we struggle...Will there even be a Nyrond when all this is done? Will it even be possible for the Monarchy to return if there is no place left for them to rule from?
Seemingly reading his mind the Terminator's smiled widened slightly. "Surely you did not think that we would only be assisting your city and ignoring all the others? All of Nyrond and its people deserve the opportunities we offer. And from what I understand, your country's efforts to locate another member of the royal line have met with failure, even after months of searching."
More facts he could hardly deny. Damn the man, he didn't need to be so cheerful about it!
Frowning in frustration before schooling his features, he spoke. "You swear that we will be allowed to govern ourselves?" He asked quietly.
"So long as you govern in accordance with the principles the Emperor has laid down in the treaty and conduct yourselves as citizens of the Imperium we see no need to make sweeping changes." The Terminator replied easily. "Have no fear my Lord, your reputation as a fair and positive influence on the city speaks well of you. You and those around you have ruled well and so you shall be rewarded by being allowed to keep your positions. So long as you govern as you have been doing thus far you need fear nothing from this...acquisition. To return to my original question, have you had sufficient time to consider our offer?"
"We have." The man replied heavily, glancing back at the document one more time as if fearing that a new rule would suddenly pop into place without him knowing it.
"And your decision?" The envoy asked politely, his tone still insufferably smug.
The Lord Mayor gazed at the line where his signature would go. As much as he disliked the idea of breaking away from his kingdom, the simple fact was that the kingdom as he knew it no longer existed.
One does what one must when their back is to the wall and in the end they both knew it.
Dipping his pen into the ink well next to him the man signed his name on the parchment.
The ruins of Axeport
North of Admunfort Island, the Shield Lands
Prometheus stood amidst the ruins of the ancient fortress, glancing about at the broken stone walls and stairwells. To the south stood the large island city of Admunfort surrounded by the massive Nyr Dyv. Centuries past, the fortress of Axeport had stood as the primary defense for Admunfort, the island connected by a massive bridge which allowed for trade and foot traffic with Axeport being the choke point as all were required to pass through the citadel's multiple large portcullises in order to reach the bridge. Within the last hundred years the citizens of Admunfort had become more and more isolationist, eventually deciding to destroy the bridge and only allow boat traffic onto the island for trading purposes. Shortly thereafter Axeport had been abandoned and eventually fell into ruin as there was no longer any purpose for it and no reason for its upkeep. In the intervening years none thought to make use of the pile of rubble as it was still technically property of the island city and few had any incentive to make use of it.
Prometheus had determined to change that.
Taking a Terminator with him on the journey he had ordered the machine to cross the Nyr Dyv and speak with the city's ruling council regarding the acquisition of the property. Watching through the machine's optical sensors and listening via its acoustic receivers he observed the discourse silently. While he could have easily gone himself he felt that the council would be more receptive to a human-looking envoy rather than having a dragon god appear in their midst with a voice like thunder. After all, he had no desire to simply cow them into submission.
The council members sat in a large round room, seemingly near the top of one of the towers in the central part of the city. The circular wall behind them was filled with a series of tall, paned windows allowing in ample morning light interspersed with expensive tapestries with the council members seated behind a long semi-circled dark wood desk that filled a large part of the room, the envoy standing on a circular green rug in the center of the room.
"We see no reason to deny the Emperor's request in this matter." The spokesperson for the council said, seated in the center of the semicircle in front of the Terminator. "We have no use for the ruins so he may do with it as he sees fit. We will prepare the documents of transfer of ownership and file it in the city's records within a few days. Copies will of course be sent to Utopia as well."
"My Lord thanks you for your prompt consideration in this matter good sirs." The android replied respectfully. "I trust there is no issue with him beginning reconstruction of the area immediately?"
The ministers looked at each other before the spokesperson nodded. "We have no issue with that request. Now, is there anything further?"
"Ask them about the letter." Prometheus stated quietly, the machine immediately hearing his voice.
"My Lord has not yet received a reply to the letter he sent to you regarding the meeting of various leaders that will take place soon. He realizes that with the fall of Critwall the Shield Lands have been without a governing body but He had hoped that Admunfort would take up such responsibilities, or did He err in His judgement?"
The various council members appeared to be slightly ruffled at the machine's suggestion as the spokesperson considered his reply.
"Admunfort has largely distanced itself from the Shield Land's affairs over the last fifty years." The man said with a hint of arrogance. "We consider ourselves to be our own independent city state, though others may not recognize that fact."
"All the more reason to attend this meeting." The Terminator suggested. "Especially considering it will be on your back doorstep."
The councillors muttered in surprise at this.
"Are you implying that this meeting is going to be held in the ruins of Axeport?" The man asked in surprise.
"By the time the meeting convenes the ruins will be something far more grand." The envoy replied with a confident smile.
"I fail to see how such reconstruction could be done so quickly." The man retorted in disbelief. "Unless you plan to have it a few years from now!"
"Great is the power of the God-Emperor." The envoy intoned. "His methods of edifying the structure need not concern you. To return to the question, will you be attending?"
The spokesman frowned in consideration before nodding. "I suppose I must given the location and the fact that we are independent. Will Greyhawk be attending as well."
"The Lord Mayor will be attending." Prometheus replied to the machine.
"My Lord has informed me that the Lord Mayor of Greyhawk has graciously agreed to attend." The machine informed them. "We expect it to be quite the gathering."
"That remains to be seen." The man said with a vague sniff. "Still, you have your answer. Was there anything else."
"No." Prometheus rumbled.
"Not at this time, good sirs." The envoy replied. "I thank you greatly for your time today." He said, bowing to them before exiting the room.
Withdrawing his mind from the machine's Prometheus glanced about once more at the wreckage around him. "From the ashes of this ruin shall rise a new citadel of cooperation and enlightenment." He mused.
Summoning forth power the ground before him shook before a large 10 foot cube of stone erupted from the ground, the hole filled in by the surrounding earth seconds later. Infusing the cube with divine energies Prometheus began to shape and carve the stone by thought alone, the massive block bending to his imagination. Chunks broke free before planting themselves on top of the block and fusing together to make the cube into a taller rectangle before the faces of it became circular and etched with designs. A pair of arched double doors appeared at the bottom of one of the faces while others contained several levels of windows on all sides, the rectangle slowly shaping itself into a tall circular tower. At the very top of the tower a large circle was carved into the roof before the solid interior of the block began to shift and flow under his direction, creating large open spaces within as the now liquid rock flowed from the hole into his waiting palm. Focusing his vision so that he could see within the block, more designs came into being as various floors within the tower were created along with stairways to each floor. At the top room of the tower, the roof still absent except for the edges, he created a series of triangular windows around the top edge of the walls with square columns on either side of them. In the center of the room arose a massive hollow circle of stone with a flat surface to act as a table, around the outside edge of which were placed numerous stone chairs. Underneath the windows, along the bare walls behind each chair, he created small paintings of the various heraldries of the kingdoms, leaving a few blank. Finally, he created a thin film of glass over the large circle he had created in the roof. Blowing the dust away that had accumulated as he worked, a 10 foot tower of exquisite detail sat before him, perfect in its interior and exterior design.
A perfect sculpture model. He thought to himself. The Terminators will easily be able to create the actual structure down to the last detail based on this and just in time to hold the first meeting of the Council of Kingdoms.
The Grand Hall, palace of Utopia
Three weeks later...
The Grand Hall of the Palace was, like the rest of the structure, a truly magnificent sight. The room itself was large enough that several dragons could fit comfortably inside it even sitting up. The long rectangular room was capped with an arched ceiling that added several more feet to its height and was covered with frescos of all kinds, depicting valiant knights of Heironeous engaging in glorious battle to Paladins of Pelor braving the horrors of the Abyss, interspersed with the countenances of several gods looking down from above. The walls were white stone mixed with gold and silver and the supporting columns that ran down both sides of the room at even spaces were neo-classical in nature, white stone capped with gold flourishes. The floor was laid out in a grid-like pattern with alternating dark brown and dark gold colors and polished to a perfect shine. Within this massive room stood a company of humanoid metallic dragons in polished armor mixed with Terminators that were utterly loyal to Prometheus, each dressed in metallic plate armor of various colors that coincided with the colors of the dragons' scales. At the head of the room stood Prometheus in his dragon form, Davis and Beowulf on either side. On the outer edges of the room the various ministers and court officials stood in orderly rows and columns as well as nobles from many of the powerful families throughout the empire who made their homes in Utopia.
Standing at parade rest in front of the column of warriors before Prometheus, in his own bronze armor, was Elidar.
"My friends!" Prometheus called out. "Today is a day for celebration! Our city is prosperous once more and our homes are stronger than ever! The great evils have been broken and peace reigns!"
The audience clapped in approval before he continued.
"However, we must not let down our guard!" Prometheus cautioned. "We must not allow this peace we have made give way to complacency! Not many miles to the west our neighbors fear for their livelihoods and their futures! We have dispatched men to aid them as best we can but there are other dangers in this world we must look to as well! This world still holds many deep and dark secrets! This world still shelters many dangers! This world still bears the stench of corruption and injustice and I would see it cleansed!" He shouted.
The crowd roared with approval at this.
"It is to that end that you stand here today!" Prometheus said. "It is to that end that you see these proud Knights standing before you in their finest! And it is to that end that I shall send them out to ferret out and uproot the evils of this world and expose them to the Light!"
Prometheus paused to look at Elidar. "Elidar Sendor. Since I first woke you from your slumber you have served me well and served me faithfully. Every command I have given you, you have followed to the best of your ability and you have proven beyond a doubt that you are worthy of accolade! In the Dragon Wars of ancient times you served as the leader for groups of dragons that would sally forth and engaged against Tiamet's hateful brood. Tiamet's power has been broken and her children cowed, but they still have the power to cause chaos and dissent wherever they go! Therefore, I give you a new command and a new commission!"
"By my power as God-Emperor of Utopia I confer upon you the title of Grandmaster of the Knightly Order of the Radiant Dragon!"
The crowed cheered loudly at this as Elidar knelt before Prometheus with his head bowed. As the cheers died down he spoke in a strident voice.
"My Lord, I am humbled and honored that you would choose me for such a noble position. I accept your commission with all the humility and grace I possess. Here and now I swear an oath before Your Holiness and all gathered here that I will do my utmost to seek out the enemies of our people and of all those who follow in the Light!"
"Let it be known that my blade and my shield will be the vanguard by which the darkness shall fall and the innocent be protected!" He announced. "I was once the Sacred Warder of Bahamut, Lord of all good Dragons! I defended the innocent from harm and destroyed evil with all the powers and skills at my disposal! Now I shall do so again under your banner! I shall lead these Knights and all those who would join this Order with dignity and with humility, but also with steadfastness and unwavering courage! We shall ensure the children of Tiamet can never again rise up to threaten what is ours! We shall be the rock upon which the oceans of evil break! We shall be the shield that guards the pure! We shall be the sword of justice wherever we go, and we shall never rest until our duty is done! Will you accept my oath, my Lord?!" He cried out
"I do so accept it!" Prometheus boomed and the crowd cheered wildly as Elidar shot to his feet, raising his sword high.
Turning to the Knights as the crowd cheered he called out over their voices in a thunderous voice. "KNIGHTS OF THE ORDER! YOU HAVE YOUR COMMISSION! DEDICATE YOURSELVES TO THIS CAUSE AND KNEEL!"
The floor shook with a thud as over fifty fully armored knights fell to one knee with perfect timing, their fists clanging against their breastplates.
"WE ACCEPT THE COMMISSION FROM OUR LORD!" They shouted in one voice. "BY THE GRACE OF THE GODS LET OUR HANDS NEVER FALTER AND OUR FAITH NEVER FADE!"
"Arise!" Prometheus called out and the knights rose to their feet as the nobles clapped and cheered.
"I have heard your dedications and found them worthy!" Prometheus called out. "As of this moment your lives are dedicated to this task! Go now and prepare yourselves, for your duty shall take you far from this place and into the darkest corners of the world! Steel your hearts and minds for what lay ahead but know that I shall always be with you!"
"Grandmaster!" Prometheus called to Elidar. "Take charge of your men! Dismissed!"
The entire company saluted Prometheus once more before turning sharply about and marching from the room in perfect formation. After several minutes of cheers and clapping Prometheus raised his hands for silence.
"We have taken the first step to ensure the safety and security of our people and the people of this world." He told them. "But there is much still to do. Remember, all of you, that no matter what your service, no matter what your trade, you do your work in service to me and to the glory of our empire for it could not function without each and every one of you! No man is greater than another in importance but no man is lesser than another in truth! The hand is as important as the eye or the arm but one is not greater than another, for to lose an eye or to lose a hand is equally grievous and the body as a whole is lessened! Therefore do your work well and dedicate it to your Lord that all might prosper and find blessing because of what you do! Go now, my friends, and serve the cause well!"
With another round of clapping the groups began to disperse. Prometheus and the others remained behind as a few of the crowd came to him with various questions or concerns before they finally retired to Prometheus's office.
"I must say it was a very nice ceremony." Davis remarked. "Elidar should be up to the task, given his credentials. How big do you think this Order of yours will grow to be?"
"Only time will tell." Prometheus replied with a shrug, having switched to his human form as he sat down. "I believe more of Bahamut's children will join in the days to come and I will add more Terminators as needed."
"What about regular humans?" Davis asked. "I couldn't help but notice a distinct lack of them under those suits of armor."
"Humans do not normally have the stamina or strength to deal with a dragon." Prometheus said with a shake of his head. "Oh, there are a few dragonslayers in the wide world but they are few and far between. Even a group of them would have difficulty taking one down without powerful spells and specialized equipment. A Terminator's strength, speed, and hardiness are greater than a normal man's by a significant margin even with nanomachines running through their bodies. If normal men and women wish to be a part of the Order it shall be on a case by case basis and they shall be put through a strenuous series of trials to prove themselves."
"I sense there is more to it than that." Beowulf remarked quietly, giving Prometheus a cunning look, his golden eyes glinting in the light.
"You are correct, of course, my friend." Prometheus said with a nod. "There is another reason I wish to cultivate an Order of Dragons and machines. Men and women, in fact all mortals, have a price. Give them enough gold, offer them something they cannot refuse, or put pressure on things that are important to them, and all but the most stout will cave, will desert, will betray. My army is strong and they are professionals, but they are still human. For times when things become most desperate, most harrowing, when all hope seems lost and all desert us, it is in that time that I will need warriors that are more than human, more than mortal. In that moment they will be the ones who will stand against the onslaught without a second thought, who will not bow or flee no matter the pressure or the odds."
"My Terminators can already do that." Davis suggested.
Prometheus shook his head. "They may be a wall against the tide or fight to the death but they cannot inspire men whose morale is broken or whose courage has fled. They cannot shine like a beacon in the darkness when all hope is lost and rally men to fight on. For that I need those who are incorruptible, immutable, and unwavering in their duty. The metallic dragons are the embodiment of all those qualities and more."
Davis smiled at this. "I think we've found the stock for any future space marine program we might create. The Emperor's kin, bound in service to Him, greater than any mortal man and having the strength of the gods to wield His mighty justice. Super-soldiers of the highest order, they are steel and they are doom."
Prometheus chuckled quietly at this. "Perhaps one day we shall consider that. But for the moment I am content with what they are; a Knightly Order to stand against the dark dragons that remain in this world and a force to hold back the darkness when all others would fall. Now then, was there anything else of importance that needs to be discussed?"
"I take it the meeting you have planned is still going ahead?" Davis asked.
Prometheus nodded. "I have received responses from the last of the major kingdoms and the tower is all but complete. For this first meeting they shall be bringing small companies of soldiers as honor guards and I shall be helping to ensure security of course."
"That's going to be a lot of royalty in one place," Davis remarked, "and since I haven't been working my fingers to the metal on the security arrangements I would assume you have something in mind."
"The other rulers would be affronted if I did not allow them to make their own preparations." Prometheus remarked. "This is not the United Nations where the host country must provide security to all its foreign dignitaries and heads of state, though it is my intention that one day it will become something like it. No, there will be several small armies marching to one place and by the end it will be the most heavily guarded tower on the continent. Between the thousands of soldiers that will be there and my own divine protections they will be safe enough."
Davis nodded. "Very well. I'll keep the Terminators we have in their service close to them as long as they are outside the bounds of their own territories. That should at least keep them safe from any surprise attacks."
Prometheus nodded. "Agreed. Moving on to other matters how is Kyprioth's training as one of your agents going?"
"It's going rather well." Davis replied. "He has all of the fundamentals down so I anticipate sending him on his first real mission soon. Nothing too dangerous or taxing but something that will prove he's taken his lessons to heart and can apply them properly."
Prometheus nodded. "And his mission?"
Davis smirked. "Don't worry, I've already cleared it with Beowulf. Let's just say it'll be a nice surprise for the Canon of Veluna."
Prometheus raised an eyebrow at this. "If Kyprioth is caught the Canon will probably press him into community service for the deed."
"Which in itself would be a valuable lesson about not getting caught." Davis replied easily. "At least we can trust the Canon to be merciful instead of having him thrown in jail or executed as some others might try to do."
Prometheus nodded. "Very true. Go ahead with your plan then, do let me know if anything else comes up."
Davis nodded before standing and departing.
Prometheus then turned to Beowulf. "And what of yourself my friend?"
"Aurelius has been spending more time with me lately." Beowulf replied in his raspy voice. "He came to me one day and very politely requested that I teach him what I knew about swordsmanship from my studies with Darlana. To say that I was surprised was an understatement." He admitted.
"I believe he wishes to redeem himself in your eyes for his past behavior." Prometheus said. "Most likely this is his way of trying to make friends."
"So I supposed, given the fact that he has avoided me until now." Beowulf agreed. "I was a bit cautious at first but he seems to be enjoying my company and my lessons so far."
Prometheus nodded. "Good. Do try and cultivate a friendship with him if you can. I believe it would be good for both of you."
Beowulf nodded. "Also, I must say I am having a hard time coming up with tenets for the faithful." He admitted ruefully. "I am not used to being a High Priest and I do not want to disappoint you, Alpha."
Prometheus smiled gently. "Just as I am still not used to being a god, my friend. We shall both be learning a great deal in the weeks and months to come. Look over the tenets of the other gods for context, examine my aims, and my sphere of influence in light of them. Perhaps that will help you. No religion is conceived of fully in a day, my friend, it will come to fruition in time."
Beowulf nodded. "As you say, Alpha. We should be hearing back from the last of the ambassadorial teams soon regarding their progress. I will let you know as soon as they report in but as of right now, most of Nyrond is under our control as vassals."
Prometheus nodded. "Good. The sooner we can begin to help the people of Nyrond, the better. For those that have signed the treaty, begin transferring whatever each city needs, be it men, supplies, food, anything. If it is something unusual, come and speak with me."
Beowulf nodded as the door to his office opened and Arianasa walked in, the pale fey woman dressed in a long silver gown with her platinum hair done up in a stylish bun.
"Ah, my dear." Prometheus smiled. "What can I do for you?"
"I have not seen much of you lately and wished to visit." She said.
The god smiled. "Of course. Was there anything else Beowulf?"
The Gnoll shook his head. "No. I shall take my leave." He said as he stood and bowed low to Prometheus before departing, leaving the silver dragon and the draconic god alone.
"My apologies for being so preoccupied recently but I have had much to do." He admitted.
"You always have much to do and I'm sure it will only get worse as times goes on." She remarked idly. "After all, a god must worry about so many things." She said as she came around behind him and rested her slim fingers on his shoulders. "Allow me to push those worries aside for a little while." She murmured in his ear.
"And what did you have in mind my dear?" He asked with a smile.
"I learned many arts over the centuries before being put to sleep." She suggested softly. "Stimulating the muscles to improve their elasticity is one of them."
"A dragoness who is a masseuse. How lovely." He smiled. "Your room or mine?"
"Mine." She insisted with a gleam in her brilliant blue eyes. "And, perhaps, when I have taught you all that I know you might return the favor…"
Prometheus smiled enticingly at this. "I am a very fast learner my dear." He murmured in her ear as the two departed for her room.
