The Obelisk

-Chapter 51-

“WHAT?”

“You heard me right, Jethezzar. Don’t act deaf as well as thick.”

“You can just f r e e them!”

“The council has decided that the Five are innocent. They have not harmed me or my lands. And If you still think they are a danger… then perhaps you are wrong.”

“I swear, if you do this, you will regret it.”

“I doubt it. My land is doing well for the first time in decades. You’re plan has not helped me in the slightest and… and I am dying.”

“What are you saying?”

“I’m saying it’s over. The alliance is over. I no longer need you to tell me what to do. I’m the Emperor here. Goodbye, Jethezzar.”

“No, no, no! Where are you going? You can’t do this!”

“Yes, I can.”

“What about your son?”

…

Avalanche turned around. “What about him?”

“You know that if you die, that pathetic Terror bird will never be fit enough to rule.” Hissed the Wyvern.

“My son, is just fine,” said Avalanche.

“He’ll need my help,” Jethezzar continued. “Don’t you agree?”

Avalanche coughed, and said, “no. I don’t. My son can do whatever he puts his mind to.”

“Are you sure about that?”

Avalanche coughed again, feeling torn. “Yes, I’m sure! My son—“ he began coughing voraciously—“will be a great ruler! He will— do this himself! He doesn’t need you! My kin don’t—don’t need you!” He turned to leave. “Now, it’s a long way back. I must get going. The alliance is over. And that’s final.”

As Avalanche began to walk away, Jethezzar watched him go, his face blank.

“We shall see.”