THE ANCIENT GOLDEN DRAGON EMPIRE:
REIGN OF THE SKULL THRONE EMPEROR
Prologue:
Simple Life
Simple things in Life
He had tried to explain to his father that he wished to join the Arch-Duke's army in Amroth-Volenska. The largest city for three hundred miles in any direction from his village of Harwell Crossing. His father was understandably horrified. The Arch-Duke and noble elite of that particular city were infamous for their debauched orgies of blood, sex, terror and violence.
As a devout man of a peaceful and well loved goddess he demanded that his son never speak of it again or receive a well deserved thrashing that was a long time coming and perhaps should have come sooner to instill in his son a sense of discipline and obedience.
Kaine had waited until everyone had gone to sleep and close to midnight he packed all his belongings and whatever of his grandfather's travelling gear he could carry and left soon after. He left a small note explaining his reasons. His mother had been a school teacher at the village school before she died and had taught all her children how to read and write. He missed her desperately.
His belongings and those of his dead grandfather amounted to his grandfather's steel long sword. It was a fine piece of craftsmanship that had seen his grandfather through many wars during his thirty years as a mercenary fighting for the Dragon Emperor in far away lands. His grandfather's steel short sword, long dagger, machete and hunting bow and a hundred and forty arrows in seven arrow quivers. As well as his shield and hardened studded leather armour.
He took a set of sturdy travelling clothes. A set of durable work clothes and his finest suit of leisure wear finery. He took his new pair of high hard travelling boots. And an old pair of tough leather work boots. To carry it all he took his grandfather's extra large black leather travelling backpack. Also two thick travelling blankets.
He sorted through his secret stash of coins that he had been saving since he was a small child and was pleased to see they amounted to a small fortune. At least to him it was a small fortune.
Nine hundred and seventy eight copper pennies. One thousand two hundred and forty five copper bits. Fifty two half a shilling coins and his pride and joy 107 silver shillings his mother had given to him for his sixteenth birthday. He vowed never to spend or squander them. And a small red ruby in a heart shaped pendant that belonged to his mother. A gift on her eighteenth birthday from her father, his grandfather. Just before she died two years ago she had given him a scroll case with a handwritten lengthy letter to read in the event of her untimely death. And lastly a book of poetry she had written and wanted to see published but died before she had the chance to see it done. He vowed to one day get the book published.
He took his waterproof fur hooded travelling cloak. As well as several coin purses of various sizes that he had recently bought for just such an occasion. He placed his half shillings and silver shilings in the smallest leather purse and placed it on the inside of his travelling coat where it would be hard for any thieves to grab it.
He placed nine hundred copper pennies in the largest of the leather purses and placed it deep within his backpack. He placed the other seventy eight copper pennies in his third purse and placed it in the inside the pocket of his shirt. The largest and last purse held the smallest coins. Each no larger than his thumb nail.
He fastened it to his belt and felt the weight of it immediately. It would be too heavy to carry on his belt. He counted out two hundred copper bits and placed them in his pockets. The rest he left in the purse and put it alongside the other in his backpack.
Kaine took his silver pendant. A gift from his father depicting the goddess Kallanis. He took his grandfather's golden pendant depicting the goddess Ashira. She was the goddess of luck and good fortune. But also of travellers and adventurers. He really had no right to take his grandfathers belongings. As they all belonged to his father now.
But Jacob had threatened to sell them all to help pay for things needed on the farm. Kaine couldn't let that happen. It would insult his grandfather's memory. The golden pendant was probably worth more than the rest of the gear combined. He would never let it go however. He would wear it with pride alongside his father's gift and the pendant his mother gave him. It was a simple copper pendant depicting the goddess Kastalaina. She was the quiet and reserved goddess of study and learning of academics and scholars.
She had been very proud to wear it and he would wear it with the same pride as the other two. Lastly was his own silver pendant that he had recently bought for five full shillings. It depicted Banathor the God of Warriors and War. He would wear all four just like many who chose to follow the gods would do. As they were seeking blessings from one or more of the Pantheon.
He also took his grandfathers old silver pocket watch. It was still accurate to the minute after all these years. Dwarven inventions were famous for their reliability and durability and long life.
Finally he took one of his fathers hooded lantern and five bottles of lamp oil for the dark journey through the night. As well as a tinder box and two boxes of matches. He packed himself several days worth of travelling rations and took two large leather waterskins filled with fresh water from the well.
He left quietly without a word to anyone and his journey began.
Day 1: Midnight
The Road to Amroth-Lyellus starting at the Village of Harwell Crossing/Barony of Brentonshire (150 Miles north of the Independent City State of Amroth-Lyellus/350 Miles north of the Independent City State of Amroth-Volenska)
Fortunately for Kaine the night was good for travelling. The road was very well sign posted with signs every mile or so. The cobblestone road made for an easier journey than taking the short cuts through the rough terrain of the countryside.
He was managing about three miles every hour at a steady relaxing pace. The roads were lit with bright lanterns every fifty steps. These roads were well travelled highways that led through the center of the Dragon Empire of Aradanos.
Within the first hour. Three twenty man mounted patrols passed him and each time asked him for his Certificate of Freeborn Citizenship. These documents detailed where he lived. Who each member of his family was. And his father's profession and most importantly the signed statement of the local lord that said as a Freeborn man of over eighteen years he was free to travel the empire at the local rulers discretion.
The paper work really only protected him from officials of the Empire and offered no such sanctuary from slavers who were well known to take freeborn citizens if they could get away with it. But they plied their wickedly evil trade along the coast and never came this far inland for fear of being caught and hanged.
After five hours and fifteen miles later he had travelled and reached the small village of Ashby Willows.
It would be light in an hour at around six o'clock in the morning. Kaine took out his grandfathers watch and held it under his lantern. Five minutes past five. Kaine had travelled this road a hundred times before mostly alongside his grandfather.
The village of Ashby Willows was the home of his favourite uncle, Sirus. He was the youngest of four brothers and two sisters. Jacob's youngest brother. He owned an inn named The Golden Goose.
Sirus fought alongside Kaine's grandfather for five years as a mercenary. They had fought in over forty battles together and now he was retired early. At thirty years old he had seen enough of violence to last him the rest of his life and beyond.
But that wasn't to say he didn't encourage Kaine every chance he got. Jacob and Sirus didn't get along and hadn't spoken in three years. Jacob saw him as a bad influence on his son who should be taking his duties on the farm more seriously.
Kaine walked up to the front door of the Golden Goose and gave it a push. Immediately the sound of people talking and laughing and singing met his ears. It was a warm welcoming sound. One he had heard countless times before in the Golden Goose but never at this time of day.
He walked through the door an unexpected sight to those inside the inn. He looked around the room and recognized everyone present. There were eight people in the room. And his uncle stood behind the bar.
Kaine approached the bar with a beaming smile on his face. It was the first time he had seen his uncle since his grandfather's funeral. What he wasn't expecting was the stern look Sirus gave him as he approached.
"Kaine, what in the nine hells are you doing here?" Sirus questioned as he dried off a tankard with an old bar towel.
"What kind of greeting is that after all this time, Uncle?" Kaine answered with a wide grin that spoke only too well of what his intentions were.
"You've finally done it then. And this is the first place you come to? Your father is going to have a fit when he realizes your gone. Who do you think he will blame?" Sirus tried to look hard faced as he questioned his nephew but he seemed almost as thrilled by the idea as Kaine was.
"He won't come here, Uncle. He's a stubborn man as you know only too well. He'll simply move on to the next son. I feel sorry for Markas as he is the one who will get all the pressure now. But he always was father's favorite and always the most obedient son." Kaine explained.
"I see you borrowed your grandfather's old travelling gear. It will see you alright on your road ahead. Are you going to sit down now and have a tankard of ale with your old uncle?" Sirus questioned already knowing the young man would love to have his first drink of alcohol.
"If it's alright. You always said i wasn't ready for my first drink."
"But you're a young man now. Almost as old as I was when I set out with father to see the world. Old Marius would be pleased to see his favorite grandchild setting out on his own. But it's a harsh world out there Kaine. Don't let your peaceful and carefree life here fool you into thinking this will be easy. The Empire's a very dangerous place in some of the less civilized regions.
I had the luck of going with father and his many years of experience. We were well equipped and well funded. I know you saved some coins all these years, truly a feat to be lauded and admired considering the pittance you father gives you.
But I think it's time to give you something that will help you greatly on your journey." Sirus said and watched with a pleased look on his face as the curiosity took hold of his nephew until he looked like he would burst with anticipation.
"What is it, Uncle? I thought I had everything I'll need for the journey." Kaine asked with a look of surprise spreading across his face.
"Your grandfather was going to give you these things once you were ready. But his sudden illness meant he never got the chance. I promised him before he died that I would ensure you got them if you ever decided to make your own way in life.
As I said things are hard out there and these things will help you greatly. Follow me into the back room. We can have a drink later. Nossi, take over while I'm in the back." Sirus explained and then called over to the barman.
The back room was a different world to the front of the inn. All around the large room were displays of previous conquests. The stuffed and mounted heads of various strange looking creatures that he had heard all about in his mother's books but never seen up close.
He had of course seen the room before in all it's magnificence and splendor. But it never failed to bring an overwhelming sense of wonder to him. There were finely crafted weapons and suits of armour of all description displayed neatly around the room.
Odd looking items that he would have to guess at their nature if he hadn't already been told a hundred times before what they were. Items of a magical and fantastic nature that when used in the right hands performed extraordinary feats of impossible tasks. The walls were lined with numerous bookcases stuffed to bursting with all manner of old books, scrolls and tomes.
Kaine went straight to his grandfather's old rocking chair and made himself comfortable. He placed his cumbersome heavy load on the floor next to the chair and waited with anticipation. Sirus fiddled with some hidden switch and a secret panel opened up in the wall. He went inside and minutes later came out with a large wooden chest that he placed on the floor in front of Kaine.
Sirus took a key on a chain from around his neck and opened the chest. Firstly he took out two scrolls and handed them to Kaine. Kaine put one aside for a moment and opened the other. He began reading the official document that explained there was a bank account with the Emperor's Grand Central Bank set up for Kaine Rivera with a total of five thousand, eight hundred and eighty nine gold crowns. Plus any interest that it had accumulated in the past two years since the account was opened.
It explained he would need this document to deposit or withdraw any funds as well as a copy of his Certificate of Freeborn Citizenship to show as evidence of his identification.
The second scroll was a promissory document that let the holder of the document purchase five thousand gold crowns worth of equipment from the Adventurer's Emporium. All had been paid for in advance by his grandfather. Both places were in the city of Amroth-Volenska. All he had to do was go and make his claim.
Kaine looked at Sirus with unbelieving astonishment in his eyes. He was lost for words.
"Well, what do you think about that?" Sirus questioned with a knowing smile.
"I ... I ... I don't know what to say. I didn't think there was that much gold in the entire world. I can't accept it, Uncle."
"Nonsense. there's a similar letter for each of his grandchildren once they reach eighteen years of age. He wanted you to have it. Although he rarely mentioned what happened on his journeys across the world. He never did mention just how fantastically wealthy he had become.
Years of adventuring left him a rich man and he had simply wanted to pass it on to those he cared about. And there certainly is more gold out there to be found and acquired. You just have to know where to look." Sirus explained as he got carried away with the moment and the talk of days gone by.
"Take good care of them, Kaine. I've got some old magical scroll cases of concealment in the chest. There's also this." Sirus said handing him another piece of paper.
Kaine looked at it and read down a list of twenty six names. Addresses and their working professions.
"What's this, Uncle?" Kaine questioned.
"It's a list of your grandfather's main contacts throughout the Empire. All are trustworthy and can be relied upon to offer you assistance should you need it. Here's another scroll case, keep it safe."
"Thank you, Uncle. I never expected any of this. What if I had not come here first? I would never have known about any of this."
"We knew you would stop here if you ever decided to leave. As will your father. But like you said he will not come after you. Nothing can get him away from that precious farm of his. That's not all I have for you. These things are more of a practical nature." Sirus said with a grin that spoke of mischief.
"Uncle, you've given me enough already. I can't possibly take any more." Kaine argued enthusiastically as he looked as every bit curious as Sirus was to see his face when he gave them to him.
Sirus handed him a leather case about the size of a book and unfolded it. Inside was a curious collection of thieves picks and tools. Lock picks and items of unknown use. Then he handed him a plain silver ring with a strange inscription on the inside. Next was a black cloak of extraordinary design and craftsmanship. After this came a pair of fine black leather light boots. Finally an eighteen inch dagger that looked like it could cut through just about anything it was used on.
"Firstly. This is my old set of picks and tools. Now don't get me wrong. I don't want to set you off on the wrong path and see you get hung for your troubles. But I'm offering you an alternative path." Sirus said with sly amusement.
"Uncle, the only reason you would have these is to pick or make locks. Somehow i don't see you as the locksmith type." Kaine said with more than a hint of curiosity at his Uncle's previous professions.
"I wasnt always on the right side of the law. If you're curious as to how to use them go to this address in the city and ask for a man named Franco Xavalius. Show them this pendant and all being well they should introduce you to some interesting characters who will have some opportunities for acquiring wealth that aren't taught anywhere else. Legally that is.
The ring will help to conceal your presence from prying eyes.
The cloak will allow you move in the darkness and shadows unseen.
The boots will adjust to fit your feet and will provide you with a silent step when you don't want to be heard.
And finally a dagger that can cut though steel like it's made from paper should things go wrong and violence is required.
I do not give you these items lightly. Your grandfather probably wouldn't approve and I still think it best to try other professions before you turn rogue. But at least you'll have the choice if needed. Finally I have this. A gift from me, just a little something to help you get to the city in one piece."
Kaine took the large purse and poured the contents onto the table. Inside were silver and gold coins and a handful of small gemstones. Also an old key. He quickly set about counting them and when finished they amounted to five hundred and seventy six silver shillings, and one hundred and twenty nine gold crowns. The gemstones at a guess were worth a small fortune of ten thousand or more gold crowns and would have to be valued at a jewelers in the city. Kaine's mouth was once again open wide with shock. Again lost for words. Here are twenty five golden trade bars worth roughly two hundred gold crowns each. And a promissory note for two pack mules and pack gear and two sturdy horses for riding. The note can be used once you reach the Independent City State of Amroth-Volenska. A long walk to be sure. It will get you fit for the life that awaits you.
"I hope it's enough to get you to the city. Unless you buy something exceptionally expensive or are robbed on the way you should have enough to last you for months even years. The key is to an old safety deposit box with the Duke's Imperial Bank in the city.
Inside the box are letters of ownership to various things you may find useful on your travels. As I have no intention of going back to the city again they would serve a better purpose if you used them. I'll let it be a surprise for when you arrive.
It will give you something to aim for during all that walking. I take it you are walking. You could travel to Amroth-Lyellus and get a ride from there on the steam train directly to the city. Or even buy a horse with those gems. Or hire a wagon or carriage. You could even go by airship if you're feeling particularly daring, brave and adventurous."
"I'll see how I feel once I reach Amroth-Lyellus. I don't mind walking the whole way and working to keep myself while I'm travelling. But are you certain, Uncle? I feel guilty taking such treasures away with me. Won't you need them yourself?"
"I have enough to last me until I'm old and grey and far beyond that. Finally I'll pack you some supplies for the journey ahead. You'll need plenty of food and water and something a bit stronger to keep you warm on those cold summer nights.
Pack everything away in your backpack and lets join the others in the bar. We'll have something to celebrate now your taking your first steps into the world."
Kaine carefully packed everything away in his already heavy backpack. He noted carefully everything he stored and where it was located so he could find it later if needed. When he was finished he stood up and walked over to Sirus and put his hand out to thank him. Sirus gathered him up in a big bear hug, almost lifting him off his feet. He then guided him with his arm around Kaine's shoulder to the bar where he intended to have at least a few last drinks with Kaine before he left.
Kaine couldn't stop smiling. He hadn't expected any of this. It would mean he didn't have to rely on his meager savings while he found himself work. Only fate could have guided him here first. He said a prayer thanking the gods and offered up a few words for his mother and grandfather as well.
He had drunk ale with his Uncle and the other regulars at The Golden Goose from six in the morning until noon. Considering he had never drunk a drop of alcohol before he was surprised he had managed to stay on his feet for so long.
Finally he had wobbled and fell laughing on his back before curling up in a ball on the floor and going to sleep. Sirus would have left him where he dropped but the boy was snoring and starting to annoy the customers. Although that didn't stop them laughing at his expense. Sirus and Nossi carried him into the backroom and placed him in front of the blazing log fire. Sirus's dog Whiskey had come in from outside in the yard, and cuddled up next to him. The big old sheep dog was never happier than when he was asleep in front of that fire.
Kaine awoke eight hours later. He looked at his grandfather's watch. It was twenty past eight in the evening. He shook his head as though that would get rid of the headache that was pounding through his skull. He gave Whiskey a few strokes and stood up. He poured himself a drink of water from the jug on the table into a glass next to the jug. He took long gasping gulps until there was none left and immediately refilled it and repeated it until the jug was empty.
This was not how he intended to start his journey. But he had to admit to a fondness for ale, wine and whiskey. All of which he had now tried.
He also believed at some point during the day Sirus had given him his grandfather's old longpipe. He had immediately taken to the pipe and apart from some initial coughing and spluttering he thought it tasted surprisingly good.
He looked over at his gear. All was where he had left it. Additionally there was two weeks worth of travelling rations. His grandfather's longpipe and a large leather pouch of Red Dragon Smoking Weed. A strong concoction of pipe tobacco. A full bottle of Dornham's Finest Whiskey. There was also a set of travelling utensils that he had not thought to bring. Several large towels. A small framed shaving mirror and straight edge razor. Three bars of soap and a hairbrush. Obviously his young cousin Megan was responsible for the cleaning items. She was always nagging everybody to look and dress smartly. He was sorry he'd missed her but she would have gone to sleep by now.
Once again he rearranged his backpack to fit everything inside and then went to find his Uncle. It was a warm and friendly goodbye as he set off along the road on his way to the nearest city. The stars beginning to appear in the sky on a clear cold and chilly windy night.
Day 21: Dusk
Farmer Saul O'Daullen's Place/Barony of Fairbanks/Dragon Empire of Aradanos (50 Miles north of the Independent City State of Amroth-Lyellus/250 Miles north of the Independent City State of Amroth-Volenska)
Sometimes he wished he had not run away from his families farm. It was three weeks ago now and he had been living day to day ever since. There was only one thing he was good at and that was using his grandfather's sword. The old man had taught him everything he knew and Kaine had been a fast and eager learner.
But his father had seen it as a waste of time when he could be taking care of what needed doing on the farm. When his grandfather died two months ago his father's behavior had changed for the worst. Never a happy man. The only time he seemed to get any pleasure out of life was when he was working the fields or preaching to Kallanis, Goddess of Farmers, Fair Summers and Occasional Rain and Good Harvest.
Jacob Rivera was a simple man of simple tastes and only wanted to live a simple life. He wanted the same for his six sons and four daughters. Kaine being the eldest after just turning eighteen was expected to help his father run the farm now his grandfather was dead.
But Kaine had different ideas.
Kaine wiped the sweat from his brow as he lifted the axe up for one more blow. A second later the axe came sweeping down and cut the log in half. He had been at it now since noon and it would soon be dusk. Eight hours swinging a damn axe about with barely a word of thanks from Farmer O'Daullen.
He'd heard the man paid well for a days work and it had better be the case or there would be hell to pay after all his hard work. He was hoping for at least twenty copper pennies. And could he dare hope that he could get a silver shilling. But that was ten times what he expected and he was fooling himself if he thought the old man was that generous.