Abel's Tale

XIV. Perspective

Water crashed against the shore as The Invicta made port at the docks. Ophelia, Dreilra, and Vhatly stood behind Malachi, and behind them, a platoon of knights in shining armor. All the activity on the docks froze. It was now or never, Malachi knew this. He watched as Abel and Elise tightened their grip on each other's hands as they saw him step forward.

What surprised him more, though, was when the entire ship's crew stood beside them, almost like they were guarding him. So, he did it, he inspired the band of pitiful rebels. One by one, Abel leading the front, then Elise behind him, and then the rest, they departed from the ship.

Malachi removed his helmet, holding it at the hip with one hand, and the other hand resting on the pommel of his sword. Making eye contact with Abel, they stalked each other like wild animals.

It hurt seeing him again, when the last time went so poorly. But he made his decision, Thanatos deemed it so, and the people expected him to take action.

"Make no move to resist." Malachi said.

"Elise and I will surrender ourselves in exchange for the lives of our crew." Abel said.

"You mean the rebels, traitors, and thieves? You're lucky we don't execute you all here and now. But, our mighty Emperor has decreed an audience with all of you. You especially, Abel. We're taking you all,"

Malachi stepped forward, stopping a breath away from Abel. He whispered: "You're lucky, brother, that Isaiah has spoken prophecy of you."

Walking through the streets of the Golden City, Abel had never been sanctioned to such a vile welcome. And he thought the port town was bad. What had been said about him? Terrible things, it would seem, when every citizen who saw them either spit, cursed, or attempted to attack them. To that end, he was grateful for Malachi's protection. Still, all the protection in the world wouldn't amount to what he would need when he faced Thanatos again.

Maybe his small rebellion would be enough, there would be casualties, of course, but that was the price of freedom, he knew that. They all knew that. And things weren't going to plan.

The piercing towers of the palace drew evernear.

The guards standing at attention outside the palace gates gave Malachi their salutes and greetings, opening the way to Abel's doom. They passed onward, past the gardens, and through the giant doors of the white marble, gold lined palace.

The doors slammed shut behind them. Lined with gold trim, and beautiful artwork of the people's history and culture, the palace was gorgeous, just as he remembered. One painting struck Abel's eye, depicting seven grotesque sorcerers, and the Gods, and between them was a small pyramid shaped device, just like the one Abel found in the cave. Two heavily decorated men approached Malachi and his knights, stopping at attention.

"Relax gentlemen. What is it?" Malachi asked.

"The prisoners- Thanatos wants to speak to you and their leader first. Alone. We will take the rest, secure them in a large enough cell."

"They're capable of many things, be careful," Malachi said. He turned to face his knights. "Ophelia, you and the others keep watch of the prisoners. Take them to interrogation."

"As you decree." Ophelia said.

Malachi faced Abel. "Don't make a fool of yourself in front of our Emperor."

Thanatos sat on the wicked throne. Draped in those terrible golden robes, his form almost human. Almost. He wore the red crystal on an obsidian ring, smiling at the guests to enter his throne room. The center of his palace.