Ch 49: Declaration of War

Upon Alexander's return to Daemonholm, Xanth informs him that the halmans have officially declared war. Has the time come for the demonfolk to ride into battle?

            Sitting on the wall of one of the Obsidian Citadel’s balconies with Claus, as they stared out over the snowy city of Daemonholm, Douglas said, “Here I thought joining up with Angelorum Lux was gonna be excitin’. We’ve been here almost a week now and ain’t seen no action.” With a chuckle, Claus said, “I’m not complaining. This trip has been enlightening. I’m quite surprised to see how my people have begun to bounce back from near extinction.” Yawning, Douglas said, “Yeah, but what surprises me more is how you’re takin’ so much interest in your past and your people all of the sudden. You ain’t goin’ soft on me now are ya?” Looking over at Douglas with a sly grin, Claus said, “I seem to recall that you’re the one who went and started a family. Would you really have any right to talk?” Bursting into laughter, Douglas said, “Here I thought you’d say some one liner like ‘Not a chance’ or ’Like that’ll ever happen’. Don’t tell me I was actually right for once?” 

Gazing out at the city in the fading daylight, Claus replied, “I don’t really know, but ever since I fought that determined young hero, I almost feel like I could return to being the man I once was so long ago…” A smile crossing his face, Claus continued, “He was weak back then, he lacked the necessary self confidence to be a true warrior. But his spirit, his courage… it was all so infectious.” Smirking, Douglas said, “Heh, you’re startin’ to make me wish I’d had a go at him! Still, I kinda get what ya mean. That stupid nephew of mine… Just what’s that kid thinkin’? Lettin’ himself become a pawn in Nova’s twisted games, I thought he’d be smarter than that!” Getting off the wall and back onto the balcony, Douglas said, “Well, guess it’s bout time to help with the night watch.” Following after him, Claus said, “Right. If what that girl Bella told us is true, we’d better not slack off. Who knows when the Church of Light could strike?” Laughing, Douglas said, “Bring em on! We got the Demon King himself on our side!” Stopping in his tracks, Claus let out an irritated sigh and said, “Don’t call me that Douglas, especially around here.”

            Taking a hover carriage to the Bone Wall, as they arrived and disembarked, Douglas and Claus saw that the gates of the Bone Wall were opening. Driving through the gates, having been flown over in the Audentia’s cargo bay, Gibolu’s hover transport entered the city. Parking just inside the gates as Douglas and Claus approached, the door of the transport opened and Alexander stepped out. Calling out to him, Douglas said, “Long time no see boss man! How’s life?” Gwen and Gregory stepping out after him, Alexander turned to Douglas and Claus as he said, “Things aren’t going too well on the halman side. How has Daemonholm been holding up?” Shrugging his shoulders, Douglas said, “It’s not under attack, but that’s about all I know. I ain’t one for borin’ political stuff, you know what I mean?” Raising an eyebrow questioningly, Alexander said, “Have there been a lot of political meetings going on recently?” Claus started to say, “Apparently. Xanth seems to complain about it whenever-” Heading over to them from one of the guard towers with Bella in tow, Xanth interrupted Claus as he called out, “Gabriel, I need a word with you!” 

As the two approached, Douglas said, “Well, well, speak of the devil!” Glancing at him, Xanth said, “You’re late again Douglas!” Smiling in spite of the situation, Alexander said, “I see you all are getting along well.” In irritation, Xanth replied, “We could be doing better. A messenger from Xandaris arrived today.” Hearing this, Gwen couldn’t hide her surprise as she said, “From Xandaris? Are they going to resolve this through negotiations after all?” Staring at her a moment, Xanth said, “Are you a member of the Bloodrayne family? You seem familiar…” Somewhat unnerved at how she was being recognized immediately yet again, Gwen merely nodded and said, “Yes… I’m Gwendolen Bloodrayne, daughter of Count Hubert Bloodrayne. Have I met you before as well?” Before Xanth could answer, Alexander said, “He might have met your mother when she was still alive. I was surprised by the resemblance as well. That aside though, what did the messenger have to say Xanth?” Withdrawing a letter, Xanth offered it as he said, “Oh nothing much, just an official declaration of war.”

            A grave look on his face, Alexander took the letter. Shocked by Xanth’s revelation, Gwen stared at the letter as she said, “A declaration of war?! Already?!” Not seeming quite as concerned, Douglas said, “Whaddya mean ‘already’? It’s about damn time they made up their minds! This here’s a nice place to visit, but I ain’t about to live here for a year or two waitin’ for them to get their asses movin’!” Suddenly rolling down the window and calling out from the transport, Ace said, “How long are you guys gonna be? Did something happen?” Absorbed in the letter, Alexander did not hear him, and Bella said, “Ace is talking to you.” Looking up from the letter, Alexander replied, “Oh, I told him we’d be headed to the citadel after I checked in with you briefly. I wanted to make sure there would be no problems bringing Gwen along.” Looking at Gwen again, Xanth said, “That could very well be a bad idea. The noble families are giving us quite a few problems, and her presence could be used to undermine Loki’s authority.” 

Folding the letter back up, Alexander looked back at Ace and said, “Go on ahead without us Ace. It seems as though I’ll need to rethink our plans.” Bella boarded the transport instead, her shift over anyways, and it took off down the streets for the Obsidian Citadel. Returning the letter to Xanth, Alexander said, “What all has been going on?” Quickly storing the letter in his clothes once more, Xanth said, “We demonfolk respect strength and value our honor and pride, and while the strength Loki and I hold gives us great influence, our lack of action in this time of crisis has not held up our honor and pride in the eyes of many of our people. The numerous cases of unlawful imprisonment and abuse of demonfolk travelers by the halman authorities, which have been occurring frequently since the destruction of Gatria, has naturally sparked a growing sentiment among the people that we should go to war. Loki is doing everything he can to stop it, which is partially why I still hold that letter. If it reaches the public, I’m certain the nobles will accept nothing less from Loki than an order to prepare for war.”

            Looking through clothes at Tobias’ Garments and Accessories for a suitable disguise, Gwen muttered, “I just can’t decide. I feel bad enough that Lord Gabriel is paying for my disguise with his own money, so I can’t just pick something I’m only going to use once, but I need to keep it cheap too…” Popping out from behind a clothes rack, Gregory held up a rather racy dress and said, “Why not choose something he’ll like Mistress? You have something of a crush on him after all, don’t you?” Turning beat red, Gwen stammered, “W-w-what?!” Grinning widely, Gregory said, “Oh come now Mistress Gwen, I’ve seen how you look at him, and you’ve always had such a dreamy look on your face whenever you read stories of Angelorum Lux. Why not take advantage of this opportunity?” 

Suddenly approaching them, Alexander said, “Opportunity? What are you two doing over here? Tobias had an emergency come up, so we need to purchase your disguises before the shop closes.” Throwing herself in front of Gregory to hide the dress, Gwen laughed nervously and somewhat hysterically as she exclaimed, “Nothing, this is nothing! We’ll be done in just a moment!” Staring at them in confusion, Alexander finally walked away as he said, “Alright, but please hurry…” Turning to her butler with a seething glare, Gwen growled, “Gregory!” With a sigh, Gregory said, “I can see my mistress is displeased with my selection. I suppose I could try to find something less conspicuous, seeing as this is supposed to be a disguise anyways.”

            Walking out of the store as Tobias started to close up for the night, Gwen now wore a zipped up, baggy red jacket, a pair of loose blue jeans, red and white sneakers, and red cap to hide her halman ears. Admiring his handiwork a moment, Gregory turned to Alexander and said, “What do you think? Surely no one will be the wiser with a disguise like this.” Holding the bag containing Gwen’s armor, Alexander said, “I must admit, it’s quite the transformation. You wouldn’t know whether she was a man or a woman at first glance, much less the daughter of a halman noble.” Hanging her head at these words, Gwen thought, “I suppose that means it’s a good disguise, but… now I don’t even seem like a woman?!” Seeming quite pleased with his response, Gregory said, “Exactly, that’s just what I had in mind when I made my selection. After all, her feminine charms are her most striking feature. If we disguise them, the rest will follow.” Certain her face was red again, Gwen sighed and said, “Can we just go already?!” Hefting the bag over his shoulder, Alexander said, “I’ve already called Xanth to come back for us with a hover carriage. He should be here soon enough.” Arriving as if on cue, a hover carriage zoomed down the street to stop before the store, and opening the door, Xanth leaned out and said, “Hurry and get in, we need you at the Obsidian Citadel immediately Gabriel! It’s looking as though Loki won’t be able to stop this any longer!”

            Sitting on a black throne in the back of the Obsidian Citadel’s audience chambers, a large circular room with black walls and a purple carpet leading up from the doors to the small steps that led up to the throne, Loki looked tired and concerned as he listened to the two people who had sought an audience with him. One was Lady Eva Darkwing, a demonfolk woman with brown hair tied back into a bun, red eyes, and black feathered wings who wore a stunning red and gold dress. The other was Baron Elvix Kaiser, a man with slicked back, short black hair, gray eyes, and a pointed red tail. He wore no shirt, just an unbuttoned black jacket with a red collar and white cuffs, as well as black pants and red and black shoes. Baron Kaiser was saying to Loki, “It ain’t like we asked for this here war Loki, but even if it’s not official yet, it’s happenin’ whether we like it or not. Sittin here waitin’ to take the hit just ain’t the demonfolk way! We gotta ride out there and show em what honor and pride’s all about! Ya diggin’ me?” 

Letting out a sigh, Loki said, “I understand what you’re saying Elvix, but as I’ve said before, acting rashly right now would risk playing into the hands of Altera Veritas. Angelorum Lux themselves have asked us to do everything we can to preserve peace while they attempt to resolve this issue.” Smirking cynically, Lady Darkwing said, “And how long must we wait for the great Angelorum Lux? Many of our people have family who are sitting in halman jail cells being abused at this very moment. The halmans have cut off our land based supply lines and refuse to do any form of business with us. Preserve the peace? Just as Elvix said a moment ago, we’re already at war. The people have spoken Loki. We have a petition signed by almost all of the noble families of both Daemonholm and Effretia that demands you give the order to mobilize our forces against the halmans.”

            The doors of the audience hall opening, Alexander made his way towards the throne with Xanth in tow as he said, “I’m afraid I must object to that.” As he came to stand before them, Baron Kaiser said, “Hey now mister, you can’t come bargin’ in here! This here’s an important meeting!” A sour look on her face, Lady Darkwing said, “If I’m not mistaken Elvix, this is Gabriel the Immortal. I was here on holiday when they fought the golem.” A look of surprise crossing his face, Baron Kaiser faced Alexander and said, “Oh, I see! A thousand pardons friend! I’m Baron Elvix Kaiser, head of the Kaiser family here in Daemonholm. It’s a great honor, but we’re still busy with some real important political matters here.” Adjusting his shades, Alexander said, “Yes, I’m well aware.” Holding up the petition, Lady Darkwing said, “Whether you object or not is a mute point Lord Gabriel. We have already petitioned our Lord to declare war on the halmans, and should he refuse, the noble families will remove him from power by force if necessary.” 

Stepping forward, Xanth started to say, “It will be over my dead body Eva. If you think a snake like you can-” Raising his arm out in front of Xanth, Alexander said, “It’s alright Xanth. No one is removing Loki from power just yet.” From his seat on the throne, Loki called out, “I appreciate your support Gabriel, but unless you have succeeded in convincing the halmans to see reason, I will be forced to step down if I refuse to heed this petition.” Able to see the look of exhaustion in Loki’s uncovered eye, Alexander said, “I know Loki. Forgive me for asking so much from you. I’m afraid I bring no such news, however I do have a plan.” Letting out a slight laugh, Lady Darkwing simply said, “A plan? Please, we’ve given you and your allies enough time as it is. The time to act is now.” Nodding sagely, Alexander said, “Yes, the time for action has come. The demonfolk must go to war.”

            In utter disbelief, Xanth exclaimed, “Gabriel?! What are you saying?!” A grave look on his face, Alexander glanced at him and said, “I’m far from thrilled about it Xanth, but we’re out of time. The truths written in that letter cannot be avoided by simply hiding it in your pocket.” In confusion, Loki said, “Letter? What are you talking about?” Meeting Loki’s gaze through his signature shades, Alexander said, “The halmans have declared war.” As Loki’s eye widened in shock, Baron Kaiser said, “An official declaration?! Well now, that settles it! We can’t afford to wait another moment or we’re gonna have the halman forces knocking on our doorsteps!” Raising his hand gesturing for them to wait, Alexander said, “We must act yes, but at the same time we cannot follow the script Altera Veritas has intended for this little scenario. This will not be a war of territorial conquest, nor will it be some long drawn out process with countless battles. We do not have to crush the halman forces to achieve victory. We simply have to remove the High Priest from power and back the Church of Light into a corner, and I have already set a plan in motion to accomplish just that.” 

Looking at him rather skeptically, Lady Darkwing said, “Oh? My doubts aside, this is sounding less and less like we’re actually going to war. You expect us to avoid conflict as much as possible and refuse to take territory? These inferior beings have betrayed our trust and harmed our people. We owe them no sympathy, especially on the battlefield.” In frustration, Loki said, “We have been wronged yes, but the halmans themselves have been manipulated into this by both Count Ferid and Altera Veritas! They want us to fight, to weaken ourselves! If we take the opportunity to end this as painlessly as possible, we will be better prepared to face the true enemy!” Crossing her arms with a sour face, Lady Darkwing said, “And where is this ‘true enemy’? The Dark Crusade marched against the world with armies of their twisted creations, but this Altera Veritas only uses trickery and manipulation like a group of cowardly weaklings! I for one cannot believe we have fallen so far that we are already cowering before a foe that refuses to even stand before us!” Looking torn, Baron Kaiser said, “Well in all fairness here Eva, just a single one of their Revenants did quite a number on our fair city. As much as I’d like to give the halmans a sound whoopin’ right about now, if there’s a way to keep from losin’ too many of our people to the tragedies of war, I reckon we ought to at least hear em out.” Clearly outnumbered, Lady Darkwing said, “Fine then! Enlighten us to your plan Gabriel.” Flashing a grin, Alexander said, “Very well.”

            All eyes were on Alexander as he said, “Through a great deal of trouble, I managed to speak with an old friend of mine amongst the halman nobility. The Count of Xandaris, Hubert Bloodrayne.” Smiling cheerfully, Baron Kaiser said, “Ah, old Hubert? I know that fella myself! He’s not so bad far as halman nobles go. What’s he got to say?” Continuing, Alexander said, “Things did not go quite as smoothly as I’d hoped, but in the end we agreed to stage a coup to remove High Priest Nicholas Adeodatus V from power. By launching an assault on the city, we will serve to signal Hubert to mobilize his forces, the private army of mafia members throughout Xandaris who hold loyalty to the Bloodrayne Family alone, and distract the Church of Light’s main forces away from them. Whatever forces Angelorum Lux can spare will of course move to aid Hubert, as I have no doubt the High Priest will be no pushover.” Laughing cynically, Lady Darkwing said, “This is your plan? You intend to use us as mere decoys? The numerous holes in such a plan aside, do you honestly expect us to trust the Count of Xandaris himself?” 

Nodding solemnly, Baron Kaiser said, “Even if it is old Hubert, puttin’ our people’s lives in the hands of one of the halman top dogs just ain’t gonna fly. We’d have to have somethin’ more than a verbal agreement, somethin’ that shows he can be trusted.” Sighing, Loki said, “I’m sorry Alexander, but I must agree with Elvix. It’s not that I myself do not trust your word, but to order our soldiers to blindly trust someone who should logically be our enemy…” Suddenly the sounds of a commotion came from the direction of the open doors of the audience hall, someone’s voice saying, “Milady, don’t!” Storming into the entrance hall, Gregory trailing after her, Gwen shouted, “If it’s proof you want, I gladly offer myself as proof that my father’s words are sincere!” As she approached, Alexander merely grinned to himself and stepped aside for her. Staring at Gwen in confusion, Baron Kaiser said, “Whoa there little mama! Just who in this wide, wide world are you?” Removing her cap with a determined look on her face, Gwen said, “I am Gwendolen Bloodrayne, daughter of Count Hubert Bloodrayne!”

            Blinking in surprise, Loki said, “The daughter of Count Bloodrayne?! If you’re here, then there’s no question he must be serious about this!” Laughing heartily, Baron Kaiser said, “Stormin’ right into the center of demonfolk territory like that! She may be young, but ya gotta admit this girl here has some gusto!” A look of great displeasure on her face, Lady Darkwing said, “Yes, I’m so inclined to trust someone who’s been eavesdropping on a private audience.” Glancing back towards the door, Alexander said, “They weren’t the only ones. If you’d all like to join us, I think it would be fine.” Entering the audience hall, Ace, Claus, and Douglas came to stand before the throne as well. With a wave, Ace said, “Hey. Man, you’re sure looking tired there Loki…” With a weak laugh, Loki said, “To put it mildly.” Glancing at Claus and Douglas, Loki added, “Ah, the two who returned with Xanth, correct? I don’t think I’ve had the free time to be properly introduced.” 

Flashing a grin, Douglas said, “I’m Douglas Mitchell. Sorry we were sneakin’ around out there your lordship. Let’s just say it’s a bit of a habit.” Stepping forward suddenly, Claus said, “Lord Loki, you now have proof that Count Bloodrayne can be trusted. Rather than fight another senseless war, can we not follow Alexander’s plan and spare our people more bloodshed?” Not having noticed before, Loki said, “A fellow demonfolk?” Quickly, Gwen chimed in, “Yes, please! Do not allow Altera Veritas and the Church of Light to turn our people against each other any longer!” Gritting her teeth in anger a moment, Lady Darkwing said, “Enough of this nonsense, the noble families have already made their decision!” Turning to Loki, she added, “The petition stands ‘Lord Loki’! As a noble of Effretia, I will see to it that the halmans learn their place!” His anger flaring, Claus said, “If it’s a fight you want, I’ll be your opponent! I challenge you to Rhozic Leradel!”

            Shocked to hear these words, Loki repeated, “Rhozic Leradel?!” Looking at Claus as though he were insane, Lady Darkwing said, “What are you talking about?” With a slight laugh, Claus said, “You don’t know? And you call yourself a noble?” Speaking up hesitantly, Douglas said, “I dunno what her excuse is there old buddy, but would ya mind translatin’ for the non-demonfolk in the crowd?” Unable to take his eyes off Claus, Loki said, “Rhozic Leradel means “The Rite of Honor’. It is the name of a traditional ancient demonfolk duel, the challenger and the challenged betting their status among their people as the prize. It’s a very old tradition that to my knowledge hasn’t been invoked for a very long time.” Smirking conceitedly, Lady Darkwing said, “Hah! It would hardly be worth accepting such a challenge from someone who holds no status in the first place! Just who do you think you are?!” Staring her down for a moment, Claus finally said, “It seems I have no choice but to reveal my identity…” 

Reaching into his clothes, Claus brought out a very old looking signet ring made from silver. Holding it up, he said, “I am Kazran Zolrus, son of Rygar Zolrus!” Turning to look at Claus in shock, Xanth said, “The Demon King, he who led our people during our darkest hour?!” In utter disbelief, Lady Darkwing said, “That’s ridiculous! Kazran Zolrus was said to have died in battle! There’s no way you’re him!” Clearly amused by their reactions, Douglas said, “Not feelin’ so high and mighty now, huh Ms. Darkwing?” Turning to Loki, Baron Kaiser said, “What do you think Loki? Could this fella here really be who he says he is?” Rising from the throne, Loki walked down to stand before Claus and said, “May I… May I see the ring?” As Claus handed him the ring, Loki examined it for a moment. Once he was satisfied it was genuine, he looked up at Claus in amazement and said, “I cannot believe it, but the man who stands before us is indeed Kazran Zolrus, the last known descendant of Dagra Zolrus and heir to the throne of Underworld!” Looking away from Loki, Claus said, “I have no desire to ascend to the throne. However, I also have no desire to watch my people repeat the mistakes of the past. I thought I’d long ago abandoned my honor and pride, I thought the world was rotten. Somehow or another though, I’ve suddenly found myself thinking of fighting for an honorable cause once more.” Then looking at Loki in determination, Claus said, “I have put my faith in people again, and I beg you to show me I was not wrong to do so! Lord Loki, we must support Angelorum Lux!”

            Staring at Claus a moment, as he felt his tiredness melt away, Loki finally turned to Lady Darkwing and said, “I recognize his challenge! Will you accept or decline Lady Darkwing?” Taken aback, Lady Darkwing sputtered, “Y-you can’t expect me to actually…! He’s one of the ancients, the Demon King himself!” Facing her as well, Claus said, “Then by the rules of Rhozic Leradel, I win our disagreement! You must withdraw your petition and abide by whatever our Lord decides!” Standing there in shock a moment, as it dawned on her that she was defeated, Lady Darkwing’s shoulders sank and she simply stared at the floor as she said, “I… I withdraw my petition… Lord Loki…” As Loki returned to the throne, Gwen anxiously said, “Then, does that mean…?” 

Taking his seat, Loki said, “Yes. As Lord of the Demonfolk, I have decided we will follow Lord Gabriel’s plan and wage war upon the Church of Light! We will aid Count Hubert Bloodrayne in removing the High Priest from power and ally with both him and Angelorum Lux against Altera Veritas! We will show our enemies that the honor and pride of the demonfolk can never be extinguished!” Placing his hands on his hips as he burst into laughter, Baron Kaiser said, “Now that’s the demonfolk way right there! It’s been a good while since I seen ol’ Loki so fired up! I’m diggin’ it!” As Gwen turned to Gregory with a cheer, Claus approached the throne and bowed as he said, “Thank you, Lord Loki!” Shaking his head, Loki said, “No, it is I who must thank you. I too was beginning to lose my faith in the honor and pride our people have always strived to uphold. You have reminded me just how much I cherish my people, even if I am only of half blood.”

Author's Note

As I'm sure you can tell, everything about Baron Elvix Kaiser is a play on the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley. His blatant name similarity aside, Kaiser is German title meaning emperor and is sometimes treated as a term for rulers from what I've seen, so in this instance it's one more way of hinting his relation to the King himself. Plus, it sounded cool.