Jewels of Athariah: It Pains Me But

It Pains Me But...

6 January 806
Castle Lariar in the County of Qanice, the capital of Kerusir Duchy

Wulay sat on her throne a half vacant stare on her face. Today, like every sixth day of the month for the rest of her life, was court day. The one day a month where peasants and nobles alike could bring petitions, grievances and/or concerns directly to her. Since she took the throne at twelve from her father she has settled more land disputes and ownership of livestock than her father before her.

Today was shaping up to be no different. The chancellor Wurk held several scrolls in his hands. When she noticed the one with the red string, her vacant look started to fade a bit.

"Wurk," she called out. Wurk placed the scroll on a long table and walked over to her.

"My Erudr," he said bowing his head.

"One the scrolls in you have there. One them has a red string tied around it," she stated calmly. Wurk looked at the scrolls and noticed the one she referred to.

"Indeed it would seem so." He broke the string and the seal. His eyes widen in disgust as he read it. Wulay gave him a sideways glance. He shallowed hard then turned to her.

"My Erudr, this is a murder case. Apparently the mayor of Da is unable to make adjudicate do to his relation to the accused. Apparently the evidence is circumstantial. He implored you to see justice is done," Wurk said paler in color, "He has documented all the evidence in his letter and will support your decision."

"I see. Announce the case," she said straightening up in her throne.

Wurk nodded but he took a minute to compose himself. When he was composed he took a deep breath. In a loud booming voice, "Her noble and benevolent ladyship will now here the case of Aron the murderer. Guards brings the accused in."

The doors of the hall opened up. A guard led the prisoner in by a chain. While two guards followed behind him with man-catchers. The guard got within the customary distance and bowed his head. He angrily forced the prisoner to his knees.

"Peace. Does the Myriad Text not say that my action reflect my heart? When I do deeds of righteousness and good my heart is righteous and good. When I do wicked action my heart is wicked."

"There is wisdom in your words. I will order my steps appropriately," the guard said.

"Let Awa be your light," she said. Her line was repeated by those in attendance except for the prisoner.

"Are you not moved by Awa's might?" Wulay asked curious about his answer.

"How can I be? When Awa has killed my wife and children and placed me in bondage," was his answer.

"Sacrilege..." Wurk muttered to himself. That earned him another sideways glance from Wulay.

Wulay sighed, "It pains me see an unfaithful among my people. As it is written if the people and the ruler are truly one, then any malaise of the people is a malaise on me. Under that thought you turn me into both a murderer and victim of murder."

"I did not murder them! I loved my family," he screamed at the top.

Wurk walked closer to him. "Explain why you were covered in their blood," Wurk said.

"Yes explain that," Wulay parroted.

"I found them like that. I had been hunting alone all afternoon. When I came back with tonight's meal I found them there. There throats had been slashed. My wife dead in my arms."

"Do you often hunt alone?" Wulay asked. The prisoner remained silent. Wulay smiled and spoke, "I recall a recent petition from the mayor. Tarks have been spotted in the area around Da. You must either be exceptionally skilled or immensely brave to hunt alone. Or is there a third option?"

The guard yanked his chain a bit. "Answer her, worm," the guard demanded.

"I had plans to do something hunting with the other hunters. But when I left my home that morning I had plan to go off to see my lover. We had been meeting on my way for a tumble. We spent so long in each other's embrace I was unable to met up with the hunters only grabbed small game."

"Then where is this lover. Why are they not here corroborating your story?" Wulay inquired.

"They have much to lose if exposed."

"My Erudr this is man is a liar. There is no lover. He speaks blasphemy. He murdered his family. While his motives are unknown, I believe it is irrelevant."

Wulay sighed, "Wurk, as much it pains me I agree with you assessment. I loathe to take the lives of my own citizens but I am left with little choice. I find you guilty of murder. I sentence you to death. May Awa grant you peace."

The World of Athariah

The World of Athariah

Only Egyptians May Rule Egypt: For The Kingdom

For The Kingdom

12 May 803
Alexandria

The city was alive with the sound of laughter and clapping. Suhail decided to throw a lavished festival for his son Haroun's birthday. While all his children got lavished parties only Alia and Haroun's got whole festivals. Every vassal was invited to take part in the celebration.

Suhail sat with his youngest children and watched as the fire eater did his act. The children looked amazed. When Sholah walked up followed by a man Suhail did not recognize. She commanded the man wait until they spoke. She observed the show for a bit and whispered into Sholah, "I have a bit interesting news."

Suhail gave her a sideways glance before allowing Tintifawin to take care them. He stood up. He and Sholah walked over to the man. He bowed low, "My liege. Thank you for your invitation to honor your son's birth." Everyone was too in grossed by the fire eater to notice or even care that Suhail was not there. They walked to an adjacent room. Away from the prying eyes and listening ears of the court.

"You are most welcome. Who are you?"

"Forgive I am Is'mail the Wali of the Grand City of Akordat," he said looking at Suhail.

"I thank you for coming such a long way. I normally would not give an audience in such informal manner. But since you come such a long way already. What do you wish to discuss?"

"I bring troubling news. I wish not to cause a rift between you and Allah."

"Is'mail if you can do something like that my faith must be a terrible thing indeed."

"Forgive me but it not you and Allah. But you and your court iman Hisham."

"Why you cause a rift between him and I?" Suhail moved to focus on the man better.

"Hisham as been spreading vicious rumors to slander your character." Suhail crossed his arms in front of him and Sholah nodded for him to continue.

"Hisham came to me one day. He told me of how he has spoken with Allah. And that Allah said Suhail and his progeny are all demons in the skin of man. That they will bring strife to the land."

Suhail sighed, "I do not doubt your tale. But I will not do anything without proof."

Sholah spoke up before him, "I have several other sheikhs saying the exact same thing." Suhail did not look pleased. Hisham had been is court imam for a long time. There was no one he trusted more with the spiritual health of his family. But now he was going to have to do something.

"Gather the court together immediately," Suhail said as he walked over to the guards. A simple nod was the only response before he walked off. It didn't take long for the court. They were already inside the Great Hall. Hisham was conveniently the last to enter.

Suhail sat at his throne his eyes closed. Despite the festival it was quiet here. The great doors were closed. Suhail slowly opened his eyes, "Hisham. I have a question."

Hisham took his usual place at court, "Ask my liege and I will answer to the best of my abilities." Sholah moved beside some guards. Hisham took note of her new position but thought nothing of it.

"What does the holy words in the Quran say on the matter of slander?" Suhail asked .

"For what reasons do you ask my liege?"

"It has come my attention that someone has committed the crime of slander. I simply wish to be line with the words of Allah as spoke through Muhhamad," Suhail said with a pleasant smile.

"Commendable. You are a shiny example to all," Hisham said.

"You flatter me. Please enlighten us."

Hisham walked out in from of the court. He spoke loud and clear for all to hear him. "The words of Allah says to accuse someone of slander, you need four witnesses."

Suhail turned toward Sholah, "Can the accuser produce four witnesses?"

Sholah yelled back to him, "I can produce eight."

Hisham nodded, "Allah be praise. The Quran that unto every man among them will be paid that which he had earned in sin, and as for he among them with the greater share therein, his will be a great torment."

"So let me get this straight. In order for the accuser to make an accusation he needs four witnesses. And his punishment is a great torment," Suhail said as he leaned forward.

"Yes, my liege." Suhail smiled and nodded to Sholah. She pointed to Hisham, "Arrest him." Surprise and panic paralyzed Hisham. The guards had no problems subduing him.

"My liege was is the meaning of this? Have I not served you faithfully?"

"Faithfully? You enjoy the bounty of my lands and have the nerve to try to turn the people against me. I have eight witnesses to your crime of slander against myself and my line. In your own words you are to suffer a great torment. Taking him to the oubliette until I am ready to deal with him."

Hisham started spitting curse and abuses until he was out of the great hall. "Please forgive the interruption. Let's continue celebrating."

Days pass without incident, the festival died down. He sat on his throne reading the latest reports. When a guard walked in with Abdul-Salaam, the Emir of Tabghach. Suhail looked up to see the much older much wiser man heading in his direction.

"My friend I was unaware you were coming to visit me," Suhail said standing up to greet him.

"I needed to meet you" he said looking around, "I have grave matters to discuss."

"Surely this matter could have been conveyed over our usual correspondence. At the very least I could prepare a proper welcome."

"These matter are of the upmost importance and I couldn't just put in a letter to being intercepted."

Suhail motioned for the door, "Come let us walk the gardens and talk." Suhail walked with Abdul-Salaam through the corridors.

"What grave matters must we discuss?"

"What if I said it is time for you to make your move," Abdul-Salaam stated, "what would your answer be?"

"I would ask you what do you mean?" The pair continued walk through the corridors until they reached the gardens.

"Do not play coy with me."

"I am but a humble servant," Suhail began but did not finish.

"Your alliance with Isa Nobatia has upset the balance of power. In your heart sleeps a fire. That could burn hot in the rain." Abdul-Salaam interrupted, "You are the most powerful of the emirs. Several sheikhs swear fealty to you. Your power grow without end. No one would dare challenge you. The time is now to seize the sultanate for yourself."

Suhail thought for a moment. It was true all that Abdul-Salaam had said. He power was expanding. To be honest he was planning to conquer Nobatia soon. But as sultan Isa will either fall in line or lose his head. "How do you suggest I proceed?"

"Your army alone outnumbered the armies of the Sultan. As the saying goes it far easier to predict what a bird might do then a mad man. Even just three small territories to his name. He may attempt to fight it out with you."

"Then I will fight it out with him. It would be a war of attrition. Without staunch allies he would not last long."

"No. Deposing him must not interfere with the peasantry. A safer smoother transition is best for all."

"How I would achieve a smooth war?"

"By letting the sultan see you have an overwhelming advantage and it would best for him not to fight you."

"My question is how? My forces number two thousand strong. Hardly overwhelming. Isa will merely watch but not fight against the sultan."

"With two other emirs you could an overwhelming force at your back. And do not worry about Isa. He will get his soon."

"Where would I find two such conspirators?"

"I am willing. Dawud was my sultan. Not the insane whorespawn of a lowborn harlot."

"And the other?"

"What if I tell about a particular Prince that a certain grievance against our sultan?" Suhail raised an eyebrow at that.

"Whom?"

"Prince Abdul-Wahab the Whisperer." Suhail laughed and walked away. He returned seconds later.

"Oh that was an amusing joke. But who is the really second?"

"I just told you."

"Are you mad? He is a deceitful craven cur. A known adulterer. But I could forgive all that I could if he was a murderer as well."

"Abdul-Wahab is willing to back you. He hates his brother. And would like to see nothing more than to see him overthrown."

"What will this help cost me?"

"My help is free. If I have to be lorded over I want someone I respect."

"Thank you. And the murderer's price?"

"Prince Abdul-Wahab wants a pardon. He wants to be forgiven for his hand being involved in that murder. He wants to invited back to court."

"He wants to overturn his exile?"

"Yes. Combined we have an army four thousand strong."

"Very well. I will agree to this. We will present the Sultan with our ultimatum. On the third day on new month at the We will bring our armies to his very doorstep and if Allah will it I will be sultan."

The appointed day came. Three great armies descended on Cairo blocking all the gates. Suhail followed by Sholah and Abdul-Wahab entered the city. Then they enter the palace. Sultan Yahya was on his throne when they entered.

"Thank Allah you are here. There are several armies. We need to get word to our allies."

Suhail said nothing.

"Suhail? Why are you not doing anything? Do you not see the danger we are in?"

Suhail took a step forward. "Sultan Yahya. Long has your line ruled Egypt but no longer. Right now you have three armies awaiting to descend upon you. The capital will be destroyed. You and all of your soldiers will be killed. However there is a way to save yourself."

"How do I avoid this fate?"

"Given up your title of Sultan of Egypt to me and I will let you maintain your title of Emir of Cairo."

Only Egyptians May Rule Egypt: Victory Is Almost Ours: Part Two

Victory Is Almost Ours Part Two

12 December 803

City of Quf

Suhail lead the charge himself this time. Behind another great host of the last true Egyptians. Suhail had nothing to fear from Sultan. In this war he could throw everything he had into the fight. Before him Murad ibn Abdullah, the deformed regent, awaited.

Suhail called out to his opponent, "Murad ibn Abdullah! Let us exchange words before we exchange blows."

"Very well," a voice called out front behind the column of enemy soldiers. Murad trotted up on a charger. His silver mask hid his disfigured face. Suhail forced his mount forward. The two met halfway between their respective armies alone.

"Speak quick," Murad wheezed out. As if he had difficulty breathing.

"Why not surrender? Why not persuade your nephew to swear fealty to me. I promise to allow him to keep you petty title as sheikh of Aswan," Suhail said with a satisfied smile. "And you lives as a sign of my good intentions."

"You are a bold one. We outnumbered you. Yet you still cling to victory." Murad said, "I was right to fear you eight years ago."

"Yes calling on Sultana's hatred of my father. I was awestruck."

"But it seems that trick is no longer usable."

"Yes. The lunatic on the throne now hasn't the strength to stop me. Just like you don't. I was hoping to avoid bloodshed." Suhail said reining in his charger.

"Then retreat. I promise to spare you not pursue."

"I am sorry Murad. But I can not."

"May Allah bring you favor in this battle," Murad said as he turned his mount around.

"May Allah bring you favor in this battle." Suhail turned his mount around and trotted back to his line. He turned toward the enemies. He drew his sword and pointed it at Murad. Across the battlefield, Murad was doing the same.

In the capital of Aswan

Sholah lead a group that laid siege to Aswan. With the army of her daughter's betrothed alongside the mercenaries. It was only matter of time.

Isa Nobatia watched his army scaled the walls of the capital from the hill. He turned to his future in-laws with a pleased smile.

"It is only a matter of time now," Isa said stuffing his face with food. Sholah and Amumet turned her up in disgust.

"I would not underestimate a siege." Amumet said as she motioned with her hand for a servant.

"My lady?"

"Tell the general to reinforce the right flank," Amument stated.

"The hunchbacked will try to flee through that side once the city is captured."

The servant nodded and disappeared among the encampment. Isa snorted, "What make you so sure about that?"

Sholah turned to Isa and walked closer, she spoke, " He is a child not versed in the ways of war. His uncle army is fighting my husband in Quena. He will try to reach him."

Isa snorted again and clapped his hands, "Allah has bless my family with our union. My son and your daughter. Not only did I again a powerful and cunning ally but favor of a sultan."

Amumet and Sholah shot sideways glance at Isa. Isa laughed and stood up, "Do you think your husband is the only one with dreams for the sultanate? The sultan is a fool. A crazy fool. I doubt he will enjoy a long fruitful life. Especially as Emir Suhail grows in power. And you husband is the strongest emir right now."

He walked over to Sholah. He then placed a hand on her shoulder, " I am lucky I guess. I am happy with my territory. So as long as your husband lets me and mine keep our territory, he can have the sultanate."

Sholah forced a smile to her face, "I see. I will tell him as such."

"Good. Well I have a desire to lead from the front. We will dine in the city." Sholah watched as Isa mounted and rode off. Amumet spit at his chair.

"This alliance not last long. I will not allow his foul spawn to have my daughter," Sholah said un-balling her fist.

"Do not worry. Only an Egyptian may rule Egypt."

The siege lasted only one month. With attackers attacking in random intervals to confuse the defenders. When it became clear that his uncle army would not returning, Abdullah surrendered. Sholah escorted Abdullah to Quena's City of Quf where Suhail held Murad. He was conducted into the city with much ceremony. Though he was sure it was more for Sholah's victory. Sholah escorted Abdullah into the palace. She allowed him brief reunion with his uncle, who had been under house arrest since his capture. They were separated after a while. Each night, the rooms they occupied changed to different rooms in different wings. If someone was going to rescue them they were going to need the powers of foresight.

After about four days of this they were both dressed in finery and brought for Suhail in the Great Hall. The now fifteen year old walked defeated up to the usurper. There to spectate were many of the sheikhs and shiekha that once served him. Isa stood with his son Al-Mughirah and his other children. Isa was here to gloat and introduce Al-Mughirah to bride-to-be Alia.

On the thrones was Suhail and Sholah with his three other wives behind him in mundane chairs. All dressed in finery with Suhail's and Sholah's cloth looking more exquisite. All Suhail's children save the youngest were around as well. The twins held each other's hand and stood beside their mother. Again dressed in finery with Haroun's looking far closer to Suhail's then most. Alia continued to glance over Al-Mughirah as other looked forward.

Murad and Abdullah walked down toward Suhail behind two guards. They stopped when guards stopped. The guard bowed to Suhail and Sholah. Then took a position in front of them.

"I applaud your wisdom, Abdullah," Suhail said looking at him.

"To spare my people the suffering, I will any shame."

"There is no shame in surrendering. Especially to me child. I am just more experienced. I hoped to spare you this fate years ago. When you were too young to know what was going on. But your uncle only delayed it."

"Our territory is yours. We have surrendered. You have won, Suhail. Release us or kill us," Murad said. It was difficult to tell but Suhail knew he was angry underneath his mask, "Either way end this farce."

"Uncle be silent." Murad turned to Abdullah and bowed his head, " Emir Suhail please forgive my uncle. He speaks out of love."

"I see. I will spare your lives if you and your uncle swear fealty to me as your liege lord. As an act of good faith if you swear fealty, I will even grant you the title of sheikh of Aswan."

"Treacherous cur. I will cut you down where you stand." Murad moved to attack Suhail but before the guards could react Abdullah was in front Suhail. Using his own body as a shield. Murad stopped and returned to his position. However the guards kept their weapons trained on him. Even Sholah's hand was on the hilt of her blade.

Abdullah took a knee. "I swear fealty to you Emir Suhail and those of your bloodline. In war I will obey your commands. In peace I serve as guardian of the people in your lands."

Murad took knee. But he did not speak. Suhail walked down to Abdullah and helped him up. "Shiekh Abdullah I accept your oath of fealty. And I grant you the title of Shiekh of Awsan. May your line be long and fruitful."

Only Egyptians May Rule Egypt: When The Blood Fails Us

When The Blood Fails Us

5 November 795

Cairo

Suhail walked the palace halls. He passed a door and he heard a crash. "Damn all!" a familiar voice said before it broke out into fits of coughing. Suhail paused for a second. Before he could start up again a second crash. He sighed and turned on his heels. He pushed the door open. He found Nahal on her knees with a bloody cloth in her hands. Several scrolls were a tattered on the ground.

"Come to gloat?" she fired at him. Suhail said nothing. But with a calm demeanor he offered her his hand.

"What?" she asked confused. Her demeanor returned after the shock were off. "I don't need your help." Suhail kept his hand out for her. Another coughing fit erupted out of her mouth. She took his hand and he lifted her up. He helped her to a chair. He went about picking up the scrolls. After a few minutes he had collect them all.

Suhail sat them on her table. He noticed a few were wrapped in red string. "I didn't want your help," she managed to say after a coughing fit.

" I know," he said back to her. He bowed to her, "By your leave my sultana." She waved him off.

A few days after the incident, Suhail was resting in his home in Cairo. He was up late at night writing a letter to Sholah who was training soldiers in Alexandrina. Then one of the servants knocked on his chamber.

"Sire," he said as he knocked again. Suhail walked to the door. He pulled it open and frowned. "Why are you disturbing at this hour?"

"You have a guest," he answered.

"Whoever this guest is tell them I will see that another time." The servant disappeared and Suhail returned to his letter. After a few minutes there was another knock at the door. Suhail let out a heavy sigh. He stormed over to the door. He yanked it up only to find Nahal standing with several of the royal guards. Suhail knelt down.

"My sultana. I was unaware," he said looking down. Nahal turned to the guards.

"Don't let anyone near that door. Kill them if they get within five steps." The guards nodded and the servants shattered. The door closed and Nahal sat in the chair in front of the table. She broke out into a coughing fit. She pulled out a scroll from a pouch.

"My thank you for your assistance." She said as she place it on the table.

"What is this?"

"Proof your brother Amr is trying to have your son Haroun killed." Suhail walked over to the table and threw open the scroll. Suhail knew that Nahal's spy network was far superior to his. She knew he was going to attack Aswan and stopped him before he could finish up. The scroll outline his attempts to garner support from a few of Suhail's enemies. But why target Haroun? He was just a child... no he was his heir. He was hoping to inherit the emirate if Haroun was killed. First Haroun then Suhail.

"Why would you...?"

"Haroun is my grand child," she said before a coughing fit and she walked out of the door. The moment of the door closed he tore up the first letter he was writing to Sholah. He began writing a new letter one that said for her to arrest Amr ibn Bishoi. He wrapped it in red string. After he was done he had it immediately dispatched and delivered by a royal courier. He used authority as grand vizier was to order him to make all haste. Failure would result in his death.

The council session ended earlier thanks to Suhail and Nahal clever manipulations. He demanded that they make haste to Alexandria. It was awhile before he returned to Alexandria. There to greet him was Sholah, Haroun and his sister. Sholah sported an eye patch of her right eye. She didn't look at Suhail. Her head was down with shame.

Haroun ran into Suhail's arms. "My child are you fine?"

"Why did mother not want Uncle Amr playing with me anymore?" he asked with a child's innocence.

"Uncle Amr has done something bad. Don't worry about Uncle Amr." Suhail let Haroun go and he ran after his sister. Suhail lifted Sholah's face up. He brushed his hand across her face gently.

"Forgive me. I failed you. The bastard escaped on a ship." Sholah said forcing a smile to her face.

"Do you know where the ship headed?" Suhail asked taking her hand in his and walking toward their palace. In front of them the children played ignorant of what was going on.

"It was one of the merchant vessels...it is either going to Sicily or Granada." Sholah replied. Suhail closed his eyes as they walked. He thought about the words of his father. Nothing permanent.

"Let him go. I disown him. Whatever fate befalls him is no longer my concern."

"What if he had accomplices?"

"Post more guards around Haroun and hire a food taster for him. Work with our spymaster to see if that is true."

Only Egyptians May Rule Egypt: Victory Was Almost Ours: Part One

Victory was almost ours: Part One

30 January 794
Road to Quena

Suhail rode alongside his army as they marched. He took great pride watching his house's banner and standard as they headed toward Quena. The emirate of Aswan was ripe for the taking. The death of previous emir had left his hunchback eight year old son in power. As the boy was far too young to rule on his own, the council of Aswan appointed his uncle as regent. To Suhail this was a blessing in disguise. A chance to remove one of the Sultan's potential claws and take the control of Aswan was just to good to pass up.

Beside him rode his wife and marshal Sholah. There levies only numbered two thousand strong. To make up the difference in power, Suhail hired mercenaries. The Berber Company, who once did business with his father, had been willing to work with them. The combined numbers gave them four thousand attack force.

The initial assaults had been promising. Yuza led his mercenaries against the opposition. There were only three real population centers in Quena and the capital. The first to fall was the capital. Muhammad ibn Abdullah and Amulet, Suhail's half sister, had taken it without much losses. Many had fled because a consumption outbreak.

The City of Kossier had valiant defenders. Yet they fell to Suhail's mother, Suhaila, relentless siege of their walls. The Mosque of Quf was to be Suhail and Sholah turn. The Mosque held significance to Suhaila. So she asked that her son to not destroy it.

Suhail, Sholah and Amulet stood around a table inside the commander's tent. A map showed them the surrounding area. Sholah walked around as she elaborated her plan.

"Once get Walid to come out we can..." she explained gesturing to various points on the map.

"Message for his highness the Emir!" the messenger cried as he burst into the tent. He released labored and heavy breaths. Sholah motioned for a nearby servant to hand him a cup of water. He drunk it down before taking a knee before Suhail.

"My lord a message has come," he said looking down at the dirt.

"What message do you bring?" Suhail inquired as he helped the messager to his feet.

"He brings word of that the deformed child and his hideous uncle surrender perhaps?" Sholah answered getting a chuckle from everyone in the tent save the messenger.

"No your highnesses. His majesty the Sultan has called his council to session. He orders you to ride for Cairo at once," he said. Suhail grimaced but Sholah placed his hand over heart.

"Do not fret my love. Go as the sultan commanded and I will bring Quf and Qift under our control." Suhail kissed Sholah.

"I will return as soon as I am able," he turned to the guards, "Assembly my guardsmen at once." He walked out the command tent and back to his personal tent. He took only a few items. He found his guardsmen and his charger waiting for him as he left the tent.

The trip was took several days of travel. It was uneventful. Suhail entered the city with haste. Like many cities the consumption rampaged throughout it. He went to his home in Cairo. He rested for two days as the other council members still coming. He met with Sultan Dawud and his spymaster Sultana Nahal. As Dawud sat on the throne Suhail approached and kneel.

"My Sultan. My Sultana," he said looking at the beautiful floor.

"Rise, Suhail. You are grand vizier of my sultanate as your father was before you," Dawud said, "I don't need you to kneel." Suhail rose. Nahal let out a coughing fit and waved for water.

"I am amazed my lord. Most of us have closed ourselves in their homes." Suhail said, "Mine own vizier he has locked himself inside of his home of fear of the consumption." Nahal shock him a withering glance.

"Some of us Suhail. Just like some of us use this opportunity to make war with deformed children." Nahal commented looking at Suhail, "We are not afraid of the consumption. Allah protects his most faithful." Suhail's lips curled into a sneer.

"Yes. The consumption does ravage my lands but I want my people to know that I will not abandon them in their time of need. As for the other matter...why do you attack the hunchbacked boy?" Dawud asked as he adjusted himself in his chair.

"I found the most interesting thing. After a bit of research I discovered my connection to the Emirate of Aswan."

"Pray tell what was this connection and what does it have to do with this boy?"

"According to several texts I am descended from the original Emir of Aswan. As the child is too young to rule such a large territory. I was planning to take of administrative duties such as taxing and levy control."

"So you were just on a peaceful jaunt with a good part of your soldiers and a mercenary company," Nahal said. But before Suhail could respond an intense look from Dawud silenced her. She began to cough but it didn't last as long as the fit before.

"And what of the boy's uncle...his name escapes me at the moment. Did you not try to reason with him?"

"I did my lord but the problem is the hideous uncle. I would be content to allow the boy to grow into his role but..."

"What?"

"I dare not speak of it my lord," Suhail replied.

"Please speak your mind."

"The boy is unequipped to deal with the heathens of the south. If they were to seduce his uncle to following their foul religion. Does not behoove to defend one of our own. Even if that means usurping his title."

Nahal laughed again, "Such a devout man. If it were in my power I would name you pious."

"Yes. If it were in your power." Suhail replied. Dawud shook his head.

"Enough! The others will be here within a few days. We will meet up then," Dawud stated. Suhail bowed, "By your leave, my sultan. My sultana." Suhail returned to his home and awaited the arrival of other. Suhail dared not doing anything. He was pretty sure that Nahal's spy among the household servants. For three days, he only ate, prayed and slept. When the other councilors arrived he received a summons to the palace once again.

In a private room, Dawud sat down with Nahal. To the left was Jawdat, the court imam, and Shaiban of Yeha, an advisor. To the right was Talib of Hawzen, his steward, and Da'oud of Tabghach, the Marshall. Beside Da'oud sat Suhail. The meeting began with stately matters.

Then Dawud stated, "I called you here to announce this. Immediately all military actions within the Sultanate is to halt. Anyone one in active campaign against a neighbor after the next holiday will find my army knocking down their door." Suhail whipped his head toward Dawud and Nahal. Nahal started laughing. After-while she broke out into a coughing fit but continued laughing afterwards.

Only Egyptians May Rule Egypt: Prologue

Prologue

15 December 787
Alexandria

Suhail sat beside his father's bed as the doctor examined him. His health began to deteriorate over the last couple of weeks. Giza walked over to Suhail and shook his head.

"I don't think he will last longer," was his reply. Suhail took a deep breath. He simply walked over to his father's bedside. Giza quietly closed the door as he left. Bishoi opened his eyes and looked at Suhail.

"My son. My brilliant and wonderful son," Bishoi said trying to sit up. Suhail helped him up and handed him a cup of water.

"Where are your siblings? My wives?" he said as he looked around.

"I sent them away." Suhail saw his father's look of disappointment. He stood up.

"Do now worry about that my son." He waved for Suhail to come back, "My time has come my son. I know you are just became a man and now I must hand over a difficult task to you."

" I won't let you down. I will faith serve our sultan," Suhail said as he refilled his father cup. Bishoi took another drink. He smiled at him.

"Thank you but that is not my final wish. I know that ambition beats in your heart. As it does mine. I will admit with my mouth I professed love for our lord and sultan. Though that had been a ruse. In my heart and with my actions I despised him. I have groomed you for this for all your life. And today I fulfill my part of our great legacy."

"Don't talk in such a manner. You have a thousand more days ahead of you." Suhail tried not to cry but was working.

"My son Allah only gives men as much time to complete their destiny. Do not fret over this. One day you will be before your successor and delivering this message. The foreign bastard and his elk usurped our people's lands. Our emirate are the last stronghold our people because our mighty and wise ancestor bowed a knee. His actions spared us."

"I will not show such cowardice," Suhail said as he lit a nearby candle for more light.

"You misunderstand. In submission there is life. A chance for victory later. Suhail this task has been handed down from successor to successor."

Suhail knelt beside his father's bed. "What task? I will try to complete it." Bishoi put a hand on his head.

"The task my son. Is to restore Egypt to it rightfully rulers. Only an Egypt should have the title of Sultan of Egypt. No one may claim our throne."

"I will not fail you father," Suhail replied as he kissed his father's hand.

"Then I can met Allah and the Prophet knowing that this task will be handled." Bishoi smiled contently.

"Then in your capable I leave a wise council. Your mothers are capable and loving women. Suhaila isn't a wise woman. Her grasp of finances will serve you well. As for my second wife, Sitara rivals most men on the battlefield. Learn from them all you can. Listen to their council in times of trouble." Suhail nodded as Bishoi spoke.

"After my funeral I want you to go on the Hajj. It take your mind off your sorrow and help you walk with Allah."

"I will father," Suhail said as his father brushed a tear away.

"As for your siblings. Take care of them. I know that your only true sibling is Khadija but she died. Now you must look after all the other. Do not use your sisters to further your task. Let them find husbands on their own. As for your brothers...please do not do anything to permanent."

"I will."

"That is good. Do me one last favor. Let me rest a bit." Bishoi settled back down in the bed. As his eyes closed, Suhail knew that his father was now with Allah.

The Hunter's Prayer

It is by the will of the Great Ones alone that sets the Endless Night into motion.

It is by the hunting of pale-bloods and the slaying of beast that

the brains gains eyes

the red moon hangs low

the hanging moon reveals a revelation

It is by the will of the Great Ones alone that set the Endless Night into motion.

Blogger's Request

Hello. First off to whomever is reading these AARs I have created thank you. It means a lot to me that you take time out of your day to read some of the stuff that I put up. I hope you continue to do so in the future. That being said I have a request. Please leave comments.

I want to get better.

I want to get better as a writer and critiques of my work only helps further that goal. However, I can't get better if I don't know what I am doing wrong. Do you like the structure? Does my grammar need work? Did I rush something you feel I should have slowed down on? Did I not go into enough detail? Too much detail? For multiple part stories did I jump ahead too far? Not enough?

Again I can't thank you enough and please continue reading. It is your reading that gives me confidence and strength to write these.

The Swords of Lionhearts

Diary of Jasper Lyons, Formerly Second In Command of Lionhearts Under Jacob Lyons, Recently Appointed Commander of the Lionhearts

Day 6

It has been just a few short days. From the title of this diary entry it has been three days since my brother Jacob, god rest his soul, fell in combat and I took up mantle of leadership. I was unsure if I was ready. But today my men needed me to be ready. On the return trip we were accosted by bandits. They were waiting to ambush travelers on the only road between the forest.  I guess they figured my men and I would be easy prey. 

My second, Wilhelm led the charge alongside the men. While I picked off bandits with my bow. The battle was over as quick as it began. We won the day. Though victory was not without cost. We lost four good men. No...we lost four brothers. Arnold the Older was Jacob's age but his mastery of the axe was peerless. Those bastards had to double team him to get him down. Walter the Quick was the best with a knife and light armor. He could sneak in and slit throats like it was an art form. Sadly, the bandits arrows were just a little quicker. Kori the Fisher was a master with a net and his pitchfork. He once told us he fought as if he was spearfishing. Cast the net stab the fish. Simple. Cast the net stab your foe. Simpler. I am going to miss him most of all. The final person to leave us was Wolf. Wolf was from the town we were heading to. He was a green as green could get. He got his first kill in this battle. He was so proud. Sadly, an arrow took  the joy from his face. Thorismund, I fear, is taking his lost the worst. It was Thorismund that not only recruited Wolf and gave his mother his personal promise her son would become a  man under his tutelage. His killer didn't escape though. My arrows pinned him to the ground while Thorismund's axe lopped off his head.

We buried everyone but Wolf. We would reach his home in a few hours. He should be buried with his family. In the soil of his birth. Luckily his mother took some solace in all of this. We gave her share of the contract money and spoils of combat. She thanked us for our kindness and we left her to grieve. 

We didn't plan to stay in Wolfswall for long. We needed men and supplies. Sadly, Wolfswalls had neither. The seven of us decided to head Eulenkrug at first light. Some of us wanted to leave sooner for greener pastures but the road to Eulenkrug is through Fairdale. And god knows what will be waiting for us ahead.

Day 7

The road to Eulenkrug was uneventful. While I can see why it would be advisable to travel during the day. Fairdale is a joke. Between the forest and the swamp I don't see how it is at all fair. But I am making a mountain of out of a mole hill. We reached Eulenkrug and I divided up task as my brother did before me. Thorismund was in no mood for recruiting so I had him watch our gear. Engelbert offered to watch it for him if he wanted to get a drink at the local tavern. But Thorismund took his assignment quietly. I sent Engelbert on a supply run. Wilhelm and Alberich the Traveller went and rounded up some recruits. When we were out of Thorismund's earshot, I asked for them to find some without families or attachments. Ulfert the Weasel and Drake went and got supplies.

I headed to the tavern and looked for work. It didn't take me long. An agent of the Eulenkrug's Guild Association walked right to me when I entered the tavern. Apparently, he could smell a sellsword a mile away. It wasn't hard to be honest. Eulenkrug wasn't a large place. He said that the Guild Master Wilderich was looking for a group of sellswords to deal with a crisis.  I followed him back to town hall. He greeted me as warmly as a viper does a mouse. With disdain and venom. Despite that I could hear the desperation in his voice. He has had a problem with graverobbers. We attempted business. His opening offer was a joke. seven hundred and seventy crowns on completion. I laughed and told him he must be jester as well as a guild master. Then I turned to leave. He sighed and offered me ninety crowns in advance and seventy hundred and fifty crowns. Eight hundred forty crowns...I had to walk away from. Eulenkrug was a prosperous town. The Guild Master alone was worth his weight in crowns. I saw right through him. He was trying to fool me.

After turning down the job, I returned to see several new recruits waiting for me. Ernst Silkworm a tailor bored with his mundane life and looking for a little excitement. Siegward, a daytaler, tired of being a pair of hands begging for work he wanted to make something of himself. And finally, Thilmann, a poacher, who Engelbert took pity on in the gallows. After talking with his guard, Alberich managed to get him released on the terms of two contracts without pay. After which he was free to remain with us or go about his own way. Everyone but Thorismund welcomed them in as brothers and over the campfire they regaled us with their life stories. 

It was decided we would make for Waidhof. A large town full of merchants and town people with problem only we sellswords could solve.

Day 8

As we approached Greenwood we decided to take a short rest break. Wilheim decide he wanted to chew my ear off about turning down that contract. I tried to make him see my viewpoint on the matter, his logic was...difficult to refute. He was right...if we wanted to make an impression on the nobility we needed to take any job that came our way. Especially those given by the guild masters, town councilors, and mayors. Apparently, the more the people talk about us the better chance we have of reaching someone-important's ear. I promised him if I will only turn down jobs if they sound too dangerous or goes against the Lionheart's code. He thanked me for my understand and we continued into Greenwood.

Sadly, we were being chased by bandits again. We had a good position if we chose to fight. I was undecided. So like my brother before me I put the question to the men. Do we stand and fight or do we make for the town? I was surprised by their reactions. Even Thorismund's. They shouted we are Lionhearts. We are lions wearing the skin of men. Those bandits are mice wearing the skin of corpses. Lions don't run from mice. We devour them. In any form they choose. I had my answer. We formed up the ranks and took them head on. I was so proud of my brothers despite being bruised we all emerged from the battle with our lives intact. I couldn't have asked for a finer victory then this one. I was so proud I declared a round on me when we reached Waidhof. We hired Hakon after he browbeat Engelbert into recruiting him. Something about getting the hell out of town as soon as possible and a sellsword company would be perfect.

I should look into changing my armor to something that doesn't scream I am a sellsword. Because apparently before I could wet my throat on the sweet mead, another shady individual type asked me to meet with his master. I agree. His master was a merchant. Hanke was very direct and didn't attempt to mince words. I can respect that. His had a problem with grave-robbers and needed them killed immediately before they strike again. Simple. He offered me two hundred seventy in advance and four hundred eighty on completion. My coffers weren't dry but we could use the money. I accepted. We were still riding high from that last victory.

Our destination was Tilted Tombstone. Hakon knew the way. Apparently it was the cemetery of the Waldhof's most powerful and influential natives including the king of Waldhof himself. But it was reclaimed by the forest so we had to go deep into the Greenwood.

I decided to slurp on an inn for the company tonight. Hopefully everyone will be well rested and sober for tomorrow.

Day 9

Just bloody fucking fuck. I should began at the beginning. So we left Waldhof in high spirits. Well most of us. A few of them decided to pick a fight with some of the locals. So there share of the contract money will be smaller due to the repairs. Hakon took point and lead us. It was about midday when we reached what was the beginning of Tilted Tombstones. Hakon was right though. The place was overgrown. Apparently the Greenwood took no prisoners.

The grave-robbers apparently weren't just any old robbers. They were highly trained with armor to match. These weren't grave-robber they were soldiers. Soldiers sent looking for something important. We clashed and they took four of our brothers. Thorismund, Alberich the Traveller, Ulfert the Weasel, and Thilmann were taken from us this day. 

It is was too dark to travel back to Waldhof so we have to wait to the first light. I am going to personally talk to that bastard Hanke and see what he knows. And if I don't like what he has to say. His next business contract will be with the ferryman to hell.