The Move (Part I), by Akorylene

Published: Dec 27 2007

A heavy coating of fresh blood covers the walls and harlequin patterned floor of this large, cavernous chamber. I paused, looking at the bloodstained cage dangling from the ceiling near the east wall. He had been a good leader and I had served him well. But he was gone now. Only Rijda remained. A male could only be expected to do so much and as it was, with the temple in the hands of a male, it would only be a short while before it fell. Sworn by my oath, hand and blood, I had promised never to let that happen. I had walked the temple halls for years. I had been one of the first, yes one of the first members. I had given Dakh his temple tour. It was time for me to take my position as leader.

Carefully, I positioned the chair in the center of the room.

It would do for now. I walked to the edge of the fiery pit, opened my hand wide and with my dagger, sliced a deep cut across my palm. I sprinkled the blood into the flames. "For thee, Count Urynmaal. May the goddess receive you into her hall for you have served her well." I squeezed my fist until blood ran onto the floor. "For you my goddess. May my reign receive your favour so that I might carry out your will." The wound upon my hand quickly knit shut. A good or bad sign? I stepped backward and sat upon my throne. My first task as high priestess would be to organize a search party, a holiday in hell. If Baron Urynmaal lived, then we would find him. But first, a seer might prove more valuable than gambling with templar lives. I sent for the seer and bade the guards escort her in upon arrival. My first task as High Priestess was accomplished. More work remained to be done.