The Shield-Maiden of Recentia

Prologue

Emperor Jado, Lord of Recentia, King of Kreon, was slumped upon his great throne of ivory. He knew that his time was running short. His cousin, Lord Pharon had incited a revolution against him—against everyone. Pharon had proclaimed radical ideas of new government—and the worst part: everyone agreed with him.

The Revolution had caught fire—so much so that things were getting violent. The working class was getting 'worked' up, tearing down banners, setting fire to government administrations, and beating political leaders.

And now they were coming for him.

The entire army of Kreon abandoned Emperor Jado, pledging their support to Lord Pharon. Jado was alone.

The door to the chamber burst open, and four men rushed in, kneeling on the sides with crossbows pointed at him.

Emperor Jado looked up lazily, his hand on his chin. Ah, here was his cousin. Pharon strode in, clothed in purple, his dark hair swept behind his back.

"Do you come to gloat, cousin?" Emperor Jado asked coolly. A sinister smile flashed upon Pharon's face, gone as quickly as it came.

"Emperor Jado, by the power of the people," --Pharon put his hands behind his back and walked slowly toward the emperor— "I hereby banish you to the Isles of Angor to languish your sins against the great people of Recentia."

Emperor Jado started to laugh. Pharon's brow creased in a scowl.

"I am surprised you did this in private," the emperor put his hand over his mouth to stifle his laugh. "You should have made the most of this opportunity--"

"Get out!" Pharon cried, making a fist. He began to shake in anger. Pharon turned to the captain behind him, "Take him and throw him out of the city," –and turning to Jado-- "If I ever see you again, you will die." Pharon whispered.

Emperor Jado slowly rose from his pearly-white throne. He stared Pharon in the eyes for a moment, then was seized by the captain.

"Have a good reign, cousin."