The Winds of Tepr

Chapter 55

The air is sharp and cold, biting at Kuan's face as he makes his way through the snow-laden mountain paths of the Behani plateau. The wind howls across the barren landscape, carrying with it the weight of winter and the ancient echoes of chants from distant temples. The Behani kingdom, perched on the edge of the empire's reach, feels like a place forgotten by time. Kuan, draped in his diplomatic robes, keeps his expression calm, neutral. But his mind, ever sharp and calculating, moves like the wind—quick, searching, hunting.

His escort—warrior monks dressed in dark, heavy robes, their heads shaven—march in silent formation around him. Their presence, though meant to be protective, carries an air of quiet menace. Their spears glint in the pale sunlight as they lead Kuan up the steps to the Behani palace. The building, made of cold, dark stone, rises from the snow like an ancient monument, its pointed roofs cutting into the sky like jagged blades.

Inside, warmth greets them—thick tapestries hang from the walls, and the scent of burning incense fills the air, mixing with the aroma of spice-laden food being prepared somewhere deep within the palace. At the end of the grand hall, seated on a simple but ornately carved throne, is the Tanlanzury, Nagyazolgo Altangyibu. He is an imposing figure, his robes of deep red and gold symbolizing his dual role as both king and religious leader. His beard is long, streaked with silver, and his eyes gleam with the knowing look of a man who carries centuries of tradition on his shoulders.

Kuan approaches, his steps slow and deliberate, his eyes taking in the hall, noting every detail—the monks, the guards, the positioning of everything. He bows respectfully, not too low, but enough to show deference without weakness.

"Your Majesty," Kuan says, his voice smooth, polished. "I am Kuan. I come as an envoy of the Moukopl Empire to strengthen the bond between our two nations."

Nagyazolgo stands, spreading his arms wide, his voice booming with warmth. "Envoy Kuan, you are most welcome in my palace and on Behani soil. It has been many years since one of your people has come this far into our mountains. You honor us with your presence."

Kuan smiles, keeping his movements measured, even as his mind races with the real reason for his visit. "The honor is mine, Your Majesty. The empire holds the Behani kingdom in high regard. Our history is one of brotherhood, after all."

Nagyazolgo's eyes flicker with pride as he gestures for Kuan to sit. "Indeed," he says, his tone warm but firm. "Our kingdoms are bound by blood and faith. Our first emperor was the first Tanlanzury. A fact that many seem to forget." He leans forward slightly, his voice taking on a more personal tone. "But not you. No, I can see in your eyes, Kuan, that you are a man who understands the weight of history."

Kuan sits, letting the compliment linger for a moment before responding, his tone carefully respectful. "It is the duty of an envoy to honor the past. And the Behani kingdom's faith, with its roots intertwined with the empire's, serves as a reminder of that shared legacy."

The Tanlanzury smiles, pleased. "You have a sharp mind. The spirit of the empire flows in these mountains, just as it does in your capital. This is why we must remain strong, vigilant in the face of those who seek to divide us."

Kuan nods, though inwardly his thoughts shift toward the real purpose of his mission—the Shag'hal-Tyn envoy. The horde, rising in power to the southeast, threatened to pull the Behani kingdom into its orbit. If they succeeded in swaying Nagyazolgo, the empire's hold on the region would weaken irreparably.

He keeps his smile warm, hiding the gears of strategy turning in his mind. "Indeed, Your Majesty. Our strength lies in unity. Which is why the empire values your kingdom's continued loyalty."

The Tanlanzury's expression softens. "Our loyalty is not in question, Kuan. But there are... forces at work." His eyes narrow slightly, a flicker of something cautious crossing his face. "But we are not swayed by mere whispers."