A Game of Chi Book I: A Crown of Blood

Chapter 19: Lagravis IV

LAGRAVIS

"If you just confess," Cragger began, "it'll be easier for you." Lagravis was locked up in the dungeons of the Citadel, placed ironically near the training yard where Lagravis had spoken to Leonidas not too long ago. His crown and armour had been removed, leaving him in his under-kilt. His grey mane and beard had become uncombed and disheveled, and in the day and a half he'd been imprisoned, he felt as though he had already lost weight. He was on the ground, his back against the cell wall. "I have nothing to confess," Lagravis said, his voice shaky. The guards who brought him his minimal portions of food and water often beat or kicked him; the crocodiles hadn't taken kindly to his alleged killing of King Crominus. Cragger shook his head. "What use is there in lying now?" he asked. "If you confess, maybe I can convince the queen to send you into exile beyond the Barrier. "Yes, the queen," Lagravis said, ignoring his thoughts. "How convenient it is that she is suddenly the ruler after your father's death. And how odd that he would declare a new heir so soon before his demise. An heir that wasn't his heir apparent." That look of doubt in the crocodile prince's eyes flashed by again, but this time, there was no Crooler to dissuade him. "You know she's behind this," Lagravis said. He had pushed his luck. Cragger kicked Lagravis in the chest, knocking the wind out of him. "You dare insinuate that my sister killed my father? Perhaps exile is too merciful," he said angrily. "Your execution is set for tomorrow. I hope you decide to come clean, for Laval's sake."

"Laval?" asked Lagravis, his head jerking up. "Have you harmed him?" Cragger was taken aback. "What? No, of course not. I just meant... as his friend, I hope he doesn't have to lose his father. Not like me." Cragger turned on his heels and strode out the door. Moments later, the door swung shut. Lagravis eyed his cell in the dim light. There was a small, hard bed in the corner, and a bundle of hay on the other side for his waste. There was a barred window directly behind him; it was the only light source in his cell. It was evening, meaning that he could barely see. Lagravis sighed and walked towards his bed. May as well get some sleep, he thought. The Lion Lord was already resigned to his fate; he dared not hope that there was a way out. I don't want to feel safe, he mused. Cavora knows the crocodiles strike when that's how their prey feels.

Lagravis' bed was just long enough for him to fit, but hard enough to remind him of his captivity. He didn't sleep well that night. Who I was, what I wanted, that never mattered to you. You just care about your legacy. Laval's words resonated in his head. I'm doing this for the greater good, he replied. Everything I've done was for the greater good. Anyone who can't see that is blind!

But you didn't do it for the greater good, a small voice said. You did it for revenge. Malnourished, angry and tired, Lagravis slipped into a rough, nightmarish sleep. The events of ten years ago were replaying in his mind, as real as that day. He had just received the letter from Crominus, and had just opened it.

Dear Lagravis,

I was sorry to hear about your father. What the phoenixes did, what they lied about, cannot be forgiven. You can expect my full support, and the support of my tribe. Together, we will destroy these liars and get rid of them from our land. Together, we'll win.

Signed, Crominus, Lord of the Crocfort

Not long afterwards, several other tribes sent their approval and support. Rawzom is with us, he thought, as is Rhigor. Ewald will give us weapons. Grumlo and the Pack are neutral, of course. Lagravis took a deep breath. It's really happening, he thought. Justice is coming for you, Father. Not long afterwards, he had left the Lion Temple behind, taking his father's role as First Advisor to Emperor Fluminox III until another could be chosen. Not long afterwards, he arrived at the Citadel and took his post, standing next to Fluminox III, Emperor of the Seven Animal Kingdoms. The Phoenix Emperor looked resplendent in his fiery red robes. He wore a red crown atop his head and his robes trailed on the ground. His orange wings were large and wide, and in his hand he held a gold and yellow sceptre with burning flames on its top. "Good to see you, Lagravis," the phoenix said haughtily. Lagravis nodded without saying a word. Your time is coming, Lagravis thought. Soon.