Arjun's Heir Part One: Arlan (complete)

    I do so love Rakshasa Country, even when I was little I admired the spirited warriors and the color garb they wore. I admired how the Rakshasa didn't shy away from a dull palette like many of my people did. I grew up wearing muted hues of grey and blue to appease my family. House Brachuss was just one of several muted houses within the Peninsula. 

    When I was young I wished for the grand, high adventures I read about. The Rakshasa were the closest to me and my father liked to keep tabs on what they were doing. He had kept track of the Rakshasa Royal Court for ages, even up until his death. Finding out that Queen Mythri was his niece was quite the shocker for him.

    What seems like another lifetime ago, my father's youngest brother had married into the house of Arjun. A lucky get for us really, it put us heads and shoulders above the other houses. Unfortunately, around the time their second child was to be born, my uncle was slaughtered by bandits in the desert. We had always assumed that his pregnant wife and child died as well. Of course, I wasn't even born when all this happened. I had only heard all of this throughout my life.

    Then when Arjun discovered that Queen Mythri was his long lost grandchild, it was all the kicker my father needed. His little brother's niece had survived, both his nieces actually. Mythri and Chiyo were not just the blood of Arjun, but the blood of Brachuss as well. All my father's tracking of the royal history of the Rakshasa and now he was connected to it. The current King of the Rakshasa, and all the empire itself, was his great-nephew and my cousin.

    It all sounds so poetic doesn't it? Well, for me it was the beginning of an absolute headache. Once Arjun started showing signs he was aging, which he hadn't in some centuries I'm told, there were whispers around the court of who would succeed him. Lord Sauburn, who didn't like anybody who didn't look like him, was agitated that Arjun's heirs were from the womb of a 'nasty nymph'. 

    I grew up with Alexander and Darius, I saw no issue in Alexander taking over Arjun's house. He was living my dream life, married to not one, but two beautiful Rakshasa women. If anything that show of moxy deserved to take over his father. Darius would be fine too, hell, he was king in Kobold country! What could be wrong with that? The bastards going off and marrying gorgeous women while I rot under my father's thumb.

    Lord Osden seemed to be the only one who shared my thoughts that Alexander was the rightful heir for his father. But this caused much arguing among the other houses. Lord Scheer argued Mythri should take the seat, or at least Chiyo, or one of their children. Lord Scheer even had the gall to save Dhaval should take over the House of Arjun and make the Peninsula part of Rakshasa Country. You can imagine the vigor this caused to everyone. Lady Osden was in favor of one of Arjun's sons taking it, but she discredited Alexander for marrying a commoner and that his first-born twin daughters weren't legitimate. 

    Then a strange man came to pay all of us a visit. This was around the time Dhaval had taken over from Demir who was found to be a traitor to the empire. But the man came to us, confident and suave, telling us that his Lord wished to help us delegate our issues. We were all apprehensive to allow an outsider into our midst, but this Reginald seemed confident his Lord could help us.

    That brings us to now. My father is dead and I am now lord of house Brachuss, which is a great annoyance to the other Lords. It's not like I like it, I don't care of many of them either. They think I'm far too young to take over from my father, and many have tried to sway my judgement in their favor. I have had several horrible meetings with some of them who had tried to bring me to their side in matters.

    Together with some of the Lords were going to Rakshasa Country to converse with Queen Mythri again. Once before, when my father was alive, they had talked to her and my father told her of her lineage to House Brachuss. She was asked to take over for Arjun and become his heir, but she denied it and sent the lords away.

    All of this had been told to us by our great helper, a man well known in the empire now as Sanguis Rex. The only reason the Lords were doing any business with him at all was a mix of things. Some blackmail, some money, others promises of more military power. For my father it was money, but now Sanguis was dealing with me and I had him promise me much more than the extra rubies in the treasury. Considering my house owns much of the coast of the Peninsula we made our fortunes fishing and harvesting pearls. I asked for more ships and Sanguis delivered.

    Just before we all left to have our second meeting with Mythri, we had met with Sanguis. He had a new offer on the table for us to consider. I was anxious about the meeting, not because of Sanguis, in fact I slightly admired him. I know he has done countless wicked things, but who among us doesn't wish for that sort of power from time to time?

    I am nervous for what new scheme he has concocted and is presenting to the Lords and I. Along with us is one of the lawyers of the Peninsula who has worked his way into the courts, making himself a rather integral part of all business matters. He reminds me of a rat, so I've taken to call him Ratburn, rather than his name of Rathburn.

    Ratburn has weaseled himself into Sanguis' good graces and worships the ground the Dragonborn walks on. Ratburn sees in Sanguis all the power and influence he so craves. His desire is to influence the royalty and nobility of the empire and have them crying for mercy at his feet. Which is all well and good for him anyways.

    Sanguis is pouring wine for us as we enter the room. He serves to Lady Osden and Lady Mainer first then serves to the rest of us men. "Thank you all for having me again," Sanguis replies. His voice is deep and rich, the kind of voice you'd want a powerful warlord to have. It's charming and disarming but at the same time sensual and wicked.

    "You have a new plan for us, my lord?" Ratburn says with a smile. "Reginald and I have been discussing things at great length in our letters. I do so hope he has passed on all my news to you."

    Lady Mainer leans over to me. "Bootlicker," she whispers under her breath.

    I nudge her and we both struggle to keep from laughing.

    "He has, and thank you." Sanguis pats Ratburn's shoulder. "My lords and ladies," he extends his arms out. "I am so pleased with how well we have all work together." He points out the window. "Considering how close to home the Rakshasa are." He sighs and shakes his head. "I know that their King and I have many issues between us and our battles are close to you. But I promise, I will not betray your borders."

    "Hear, hear," Lord Saunburn cheers.

    "That is why I have come up with this new idea for the sake of the lineage of the house of Arjun," Sanguis replies, circling the table. "I know Mythri is the high contender, after all, she has the blood of Arjun and Brachuss in her, as well as the Rakshasa Court on her wedding ring." He chuckles and stands near me. "But she will not accept, and let's face it, she already has much on her plate. So who else possesses all these traits and can take the House of Arjun with no baggage in tow?"

    "Her sister Chiyo!" Ratburn announces proudly.

    "Exactly," Sanguis smirks. "The Lady Chiyo. Bastat is gone and in ruins, she had nowhere to go. Not to mention her firstborn Chi would be fitting to take the seat."

    I feel a deep dread inside me. "After what you did to Bastat," I speak up slowly, "you would trust Chiyo to it?"

    "It isn't Chiyo who I think would be fitting to take it." He turns and glances down at me. "It is her grandson I see taking the House of Arjun."

    "That's brilliant, my lord!" Ratburn cheers.

    "No, no it isn't," I stand up. "You took Amon," I point at Sanguis. "You have the baby Amon."

    "To protect him," Sanguis insists. "He holds a power stronger than most people can withstand. He would not be able to harness it alone. I am keeping this baby safe and happy." He shakes his head at me. "I am looking after him."

    "If he takes over, you'll have more than your finger in all our pies," I slap my hand to my chest. "You'll own the whole oven."

    Sanguis smirks. "You already seem to be inside my head, Lord Brachuss, tell me more about my ideas."

    "You'll marry him to your daughter, then you'll have footing closer to the Rakshasa Country. You'll be able to attack them from the inside." I suddenly chuckle. "It's brilliant. It's legal. You disinherit Mythri as a traitor and Chiyo can legally take the House of Arjun."

    "All you need to do is talk to Mythri one last time. Once she shows where he true loyalties lie, you can do just that." He snaps his fingers. "Place Chiyo next in line and Amon will be your new heir."

    There is a low murmur amongst all the lords. We discuss the matter and to my shock, they are all willing to go along with whatever Sanguis says. Of course they are, he already has them in his back pocket. He has bought all of us one way or another, and they plan to keep that comfort coming in strong. I am the only one who is hesitant.

    "Stay for a moment, Lord Brachuss," Sanguis says to me. "I want to discuss something with you."

    "Of course, I'd be a fool not to linger." I take my seat again and Sanguis fills my cup.

    "Do you want me to stay too, my lord?" Ratburn asks eagerly.

    "You can go on, Rathburn," Sanguis replies. "I want to speak to the new Lord Brachuss alone, if I may."

    Ratburn sinks and glares at me before leaving the room.

    "Are your new ships to your liking?" Sanguis asks me. "I got you the best that the Gnolls could build." He smiles at me, taking the seat across from me.

    "I enjoy them very much," I chuckle. "Although, it has been asked of me if I intend to bring war to someone."

    Sanguis grins. "And what was your reply?"

    "I just laughed," I shrug. "No sense in spilling the beans." I sip my wine.

    "I was just curious as to your hesitance at this new deal," Sanguis murmurs. "Is there a reason you don't trust me?"

    I sigh. "I just don't believe in forcing children into roles they aren't even old enough to say." I tell him.

    "I want to be a good father," Sanguis replies. "I only one the best for my Therea and Amon. I want them to grow up knowing they will not have to suffer a thing."

    I drink more wine to keep silent.

    "I have a gift for you," Sanguis then purrs.

    "Another one?" I chuckle. "More ships?"

    "Better." He stands up and steps into the hallway where there is a Drow guard standing in duty. He brings her into the room and presents her to me. "This is Hisede, one of Queen Viovrouh's finest. That was, until she lost a battle to the Queen. Now she is looking to reclaim her pride."

    I look over her, she's an impeccable woman. Powerful and tall with a comely figure and strong arms. Her face is lovely with full lips and a sharp nose. 

    "What about her?" I ask. "Are you rubbing my nose in something?"

    Hisede smirks.

    "Not at all, she is the gift," Sanguis replies.

    I frown. "You can't go around distributing ladies as gifts."

    "No, no," Sanguis chuckles. "I am offering her as your general. For the war you may or may not fight." He steps aside. "Excuse me now. I'll leave you two to get better acquainted." 

    I look over Hisede and she bows before me. "I will serve you, Lord Brachuss."

    "Now, now," I whisper. "Hisede, look at me."

    He eyes focus on me and her expression is serious. I chuckle softly. "I'd be a fool to turn such a gift away. I need someone like you around."

    "What is it you desire of me?" Hisede rises up again. 

    I smirk. "I have much in mind for you now, Lady Hisede." I stand up and take her hand. "I think you and I will make a perfect team."

    I take Hisede with me when we return to Rakshasa Country. This is the second attempt we've made to talk to Queen Mythri, my cousin. Aside from my little sister, Mythri and Chiyo are the only blood relatives I have. I have yet to marry and sire a bunch of fat children and my sister, Amelia, is busy taking care of all the business I put on her.

    When we arrive, we discover that King Dhaval is in a meeting with several other royals. I had heard through the grapevine his best advisor and friend, Czarina Mila, was captured and being held prisoner by Drow. I suppose Dhaval is discussing matters of that nature as well as the recent attacks on Bastat with these royals. 

    Mythri is a stunning and had the ageless skin of the Brachuss blood. Even in death, my father still had the youthful glow of a much younger man. I too look much younger than my years and my poor sister looks closer to infancy than her actual age. She stands regal and starts serving tea once the Lords, Ratburn, and I come into the room. 

    "Welcome," Mythri's voice is cool and calm. "It's good to see you all again." Her eyes fall on me and she gives me a nod. "I heard about your father, Arlan."

    "I received your gift," I come up to her and kiss her hand. "The spices were very much appreciated. It's amazing what good food can do when you're in mourning."

    Mythri gives me a small, tentative smile. "Your father sent me many letters and mementos of my father. I'll never be able to repay what that means to my sister and me."

    I give her an infatuated grin. "My darling cousin, I'll continue the tradition if you like. After all, we're family and we should stay close."

    Ratburn clears his throat and I turn and give him a snide look. "If we can continue?" He runs his long fingers over his slicked back silver hair. "There are important matters to discuss, Lord Brachuss."

    "Funny, I was just thinking the same thing." I give Mythri a wink and then go and take my seat. With Ratburn and I are also Lady Osden, Lady Mainer, Lord Swaene, and Lord Vaylan. I don't mind Lady Mainer, the others, Ratburn included, all irk me. I don't trust them and their reliance on Sanguis Rex's demands.

    "We've come to discuss with you taking over for your ancestor, Lord Arjun," Ratburn begins. "It is of most importance that you take over, seeing as you are the most fitting heir."

    Mythri sips her tea and is silent. I love watching her move and how she thinks, for sure we are related. I only hope I look as glorious as her when I am being calculated. 

    She sets her cup aside and looks up at Ratburn. "And I thought I told you last time that this is utter bullshit."

    I am far more giddy than when my mother used to sneak me candy.

    "Sir Rathburn, last time you were here I was very clear about how I feel on all of this," Mythri scoffs. "Look around you, sir, look at everything that is happening in the empire. This isn't important to me. I love Arjun and his family, and the fact you discredit his wife is appalling to me!"

    Ratburn sneers down his hooked nose at Mythri and clutches to the front of his jacket. 

    "My concerns lie with my son at this moment in time, not your-" she looks at each of us at the table, "power struggle with my grandfather! Not when he has two amazing sons who are more deserving than I am to take Arjun's place. Alexander is a fine young man! He's bright, he's strong, and he deserves it so much more than me. I have only known of my lineage for a short amount of time." She chuckles and shakes her head. Her fingers rub at her temple as I'm sure she's trying to process this bullshit.

    "You dare tell me they aren't legitimate because their mother isn't of noble blood? Because Alexander's marriages aren't legitimate?" Mythri cuts her eyes to Ratburn. "I was a commoner too, you know."

    Ratburn sneers and his lip curls. "You come from noble blood on both sides of your family-"

    Mythri slams her palm on the table. "I was raised an orphan and a servant! I had no clue as to who I was!" She rises up to get on Ratburn's level. "I worked in the kitchens, scrubbing dishes and floors. I went to nights starving and hungry sometimes. I managed to somehow catch the eye of a king and then stumbled upon my legacy. I don't care what my blood says, Sir Rathburn, I care what past I lived through."

    "You were born with silver on your tongue," Ratburn hisses. "You do not get to claim yourself a commoner."

    "You don't get to tell me who I am," Mythri snarls at him. "How dare you all keep coming to me, asking me to forsake my family? I adore Alexander and I am disgusted to the bone you would come to me and ask me to break his heart." She sits back down and sips her tea. She glances into the cup and goes silent.

    "If you do not accept," Lady Osden suddenly purrs, "then we will have to take drastic measures." She seems quite smug with herself.

    Mythri's eyes cut up to her and I cannot wait for what she is about to speak. "Are you going to massacre a village too to prove your point?"

    Lady Osden's jaw drops open and she flounders for a moment.

    "Arjun is healthy, why does succession and heirs matter so much to all of your right now? One side of my family has suffered the worst thing I could possibly imagine. My infant nephew has been kidnapped by a raging lunatic. My son has the entire world on his shoulders. My godchild, Emmeline, is kidnapped. My dear friend, the Czarina, is kidnapped." She sets her cup down gingerly but I can feel her desire to smash it is strong. "How dare you come to me with this trite, asinine, power grab?"

    "I full-heartedly agree," I chime in. 

    Ratburn turns and glares at me. "You were not spoken to Lord Brachuss, I suggest you keep quiet."

    "We both know that isn't going to happen." I stand up from my seat. "All of this effort to convince someone to take a throne they have no right to is aging me. No wonder my father passed away as he did." I click my tongue and shake my head. "Our entire empire is on the brink of war and we're concerned for a tiny peninsula? In all honesty, I hope Arjun sells us to the highest bidder."

    This erupts in heated words from all the lords and Ratburn. 

    "Say what you will," I scoff. "But I think we're all in our graves already. Whatever deal we make, they're dug, whoever agrees will bury us all. How do you want to be buried then, eh?"

    Arlan," Mythri starts, "Lord Brachuss, then why do you join in on these meetings?"

    I shrug. "I like to annoy them. I also own more stuff than all of them."

    "Stuff?" Ratburn smashes his fist down on the table. "You call all your holdings and military of six thousand men stuff?"

    "It sounds so pompous to call it what it is. I'm a modest and humble man." I smirk and lay my hand on my chest.

    "You're an arrogant asshole," Ratburn hisses.

    "I'm not a mirror, Ratburn," I wink.

    Ratburn seizes up and glares at me. He then turns back to Mythri. "I need to to consider all things serious, not matters of the heart or hurting feelings. Truly, deeply, consider what is right in this matter."

    "No," Mythri answers. "How many times do I have to say it before I must beat you with it?" She rises from her seat and points to the door. "All of you, leave."

    "Then do not be angry at what happens next," Ratburn bows his head. "You have dug your grave like Brachuss said."

    "Graves don't bother me anymore," Mythri replies. She watches as Ratburn and the lords leave the room. Once she sits down I take a letter from my robe and lay it before her.

    "Read it, please," I whisper to her. "It would mean a great deal to me if you responded in kind."

    Mythri's fingers linger on the envelope. "Arlan, I know we are family, but I don't much care for what you and the others are doing. I am angry and I would rather shred this than read it."

    "Please," I smile. "For a laugh, read it then shred it."

    Mythri sighs and pulls it to her. "Just leave. I'm tired."

    I bow low to her. "I understand." I leave and join up with Ratburn and the others. 

    "Well now, what kept you?" Lady Mainer asks me. "Saying goodbye?"

    "I doubt she'll want to see me again," I answer. 

    Lady Mainer smirks. "Not many women do ever want to see you twice."

    I clutch my hand over my heart. "You have wounded me, fair Lady."

    I see Hisede where I left here at the entrance. I step close to her and she follows alongside me, keeping up with my pace.

    "Did she take the letter, my lord?" She asks me.

    "She did," I murmur. "Did you do as I asked."

    "As closely as possible, my lord." She glances down at me. "Are you sure this will work?"

    "For Sanguis, it has to," I laugh. 

    I step into my carriage and once Hisede is seated beside me she leans in for a kiss. I meet it hungrily and chuckle as she bites my neck.

    "I am excited for what is to come, my lord," she whispers to me.

    I touch her cheek and smile at her. "Call me Arlan when we are alone, my lovely Hisede."

    "It's so improper," she grins. "Arlan."

    I smile and kiss her again. "I am proud to have you at my side," I whisper to her. "Sanguis doesn't know what he gave away."

    Hisede kisses me and tangles her sharp fingers in my hair. "I will serve you until the end, Arlan." She whispers to me. "Not many men get that sort of honor, I do hope you realize."

    I cup the back of her head. "This may be the end. Are you ready?"

  "To the death, Arlan." Hisede presses her forehead against mine.