The Outrider Legion: Book One

by Christopher Pepper

  ”Sadly, the Phaedra doesn’t really work like that. It is a much more gradual process. But I’ve got to give you credit for trying. So, one of the Outriders must have freed the Phaedra without realizing it. It must be with one of them. Hauge and Atrarch wouldn’t be so foolish, and Leonid would have destroyed it immediately.” His master again fell silent for a moment more.

  “I’m sorry I don’t know more,” Kinnese said, resignation in his voice. “I underestimated the entire task from the beginning, and I’m here because of it.”

  “You won’t be here long,” his master said.

  Kinnese barked out a laugh.

  “True. I doubt they’ll keep me around much longer. Judicators aren’t known for their long lasting hospitality.”

  “No no, that’s not what I mean at all. If anything, you failed because I didn’t put enough resources at your disposal. I can’t get you out just yet. This will need to be subtle, especially if Leonid is actively involved now. But I will get you out of here before the Judicators do anything…permanent to you.”

  Hope, almost unknown to Kinnese of late, leapt in his chest.

  “You…? Thank you, sir”

  “It’s the least I can do. And as I said, the Phaedra was more an unexpected opportunity than a vital objective. We gambled and took some losses, but nothing catastrophic. If anything, we’ve gained the knowledge that Melcara is vulnerable, and that the Dominion is deadly serious. And that our friend the Akvan is stirring things up. So we adjust, adapt, and continue our plan.” The presence stood up, as if to leave. “I am sorry to say that I must now leave, my friend. Only for a short while though, I promise you. Apotheosis is approaching sooner than anticipated, and we must be ready. But for now, maintain your strength. Stay vigilant,” his master gestured at the plate, “and eat your food. I will have need for all you can muster in the coming weeks.”

  As his master faded away, Kinnese felt his mind grow numb with the fog of pain and confusion again. He looked down at the plate of food still on the floor. It looked delicious. Did it always look like that, he wondered? It was suddenly so hard to keep it together.

  Picking up his plate, he began to salivate. A large chicken, stuffed with potatoes, onions, and leeks. This was more food than some families ate in a week. The smell conjured up memories of family gatherings as a child, and Kinnese couldn’t help but smile through the pain summoned by the manacles. Say what you will about Judicators, but they knew how to feed their guests.

  As he wolfed down the food, he felt a weight leave his shoulders, one he hadn’t realized was there. Being a turncoat wasn’t so bad after all.