I'm wary of Anaxantis, his intentions are so unclear.

I also fear for Ehandar's future

This was an awesome story through and through. All the times I read it I was sitting on the edge of my seat. It felt so real that I could feel what it all felt like. It was intriguing. You are a mable at warfare and horror. The heartbreaking loses and the hope for things to get better for everyone kept me wanting more. Anax and Ehander were a pair that had me split on how I wanted it to end, but after all the punishments that they each went through, I saw that there was true feelings on both parts and wish that they would resolve their problems and be happy. They both had to change for their relationship to work.

The brother thing still disturbs me a bit, and then I chose to see them as only brothers through marriage and not blood.

I came to understand why Anax dealt with his family how he did, as dysfunctional as they all are. The humor had me laughing so hard, I often laughed days later thinking about it.

The ending was perfect and almost leads to a sequel. Sorry if you had said there will be I did not know. I just wanted to say I enjoyed your story tremendously and think you are wonderful story teller. Thank you !!!

You have given us a wonderful ending to warm our hearts while at the same time leaving many loose threads to weave into your eagerly anticipated next book, you sly devil.
Thank you for giving us this epic tale!

So amazing! I've been meaning to read Book I for awhile now, but didn't get around to it until last week. By the second chapter, I was hooked. Putting this down long enough to sleep has been a challenge every night since then. I'm glad you let me read this mostly clothed in the comfort of my bed, though by the end I'd have willingly paid any price demanded.

I don't turn my computer on for two days and look what happens? Ah well, best start making up for lost time...

First off, Lorcko and Timishi. I found it a suprisingly bitter sweet scene. They feel so deeply about each other and Timishi's kindness about Lorckos' scar is so sweet. Even if he doesn't say anything, Lorcko is clearly selfconscious about it - the change in hairstyle shows that (I thoroughly approve, by the way; got a thing for guys with hair clips.)
And yet... I don't think Timishi should lie about what happened to the old baron of Iramid and Ambrick. That's the sort of thing that Lorcko will find out eventually and the longer it's kept hidden, the harder it will be for them to recover from.

Also, Ambrick. The Mukthars are a harsh race, that was established early on and he was a much hated character but still - I don't know if it was the music I was listening to or just that I forgive characters way more easily than I forgive real people, but I feel so sorry for him. What he has been reduced to is pathetic and piteous and, as Crave said, the 'you used to love me.' line was heart rending. I can't believe that if Lorcko had chosen Ambrick's punishment, he would have chosen this. It's understandable that Timishi would be angrier than Lorcko since he was the one to see Lorcko at his worst; he picked up the pieces. But to then hide it from Lorcko makes Timishi's actions appear more for his own satisfaction than for Lorcko's benefit.

But what really matters is that Lorcko and Timishi are safe and happy for the moment which, considering the land they live in, is a major blessing. Still love them, always will.

Anaxantis seems to have made himself a nice, shiny new enemy. Ah well, life would be far too boring if raising and training an army, winning a seemingly un-winnable war, colonising a new land and defending said land against your family were the only things you had to deal with. I trust Anaxantis though. If he wants the Order gone, somehow, go they will. It will take a while and be very difficult but once he's given his word, well, eveyone should know by now what that means.

Poor Emelasuntha, and that's not something I thought I'd ever have need to say. Her son has outgrown her. That can't be easy to take especially after everything she did to try to protect him.

Yet more lovely, new enemies for Anaxantis to antagonize! He's done a wonderful job of pissing off family members today. Well, he saw this coming - his father was never going to be happy about his plans. One brother against and one - maybe - an ally. I quite like the sound of Tenaxos junior. He clearly had the foresight to know that whatever happened in the North would be worth keeping an eye on.

Finally, for the final time, Ehandar and Anaxantis. It was perfect. Somehow, depsite everything - and I mean everything- they managed to fix it. I'm so happy. The fact that Anaxantis made sure everything was reversible is just so typical of him. I felt like it showed how, even when he was certain he could never forgive Ehandar, he never gave up hope entirely. They were finally able to talk to each other. After everything they have endured both at each others hands and from the rest of the world, they deserved this. It's the absolute right ending for them.

I was so worried by the '“Yes, Master,” he whispered' - you managed to make my insides curl up in fear that it was too late. But if Anaxantis says he can fix it, he can. So overall, I felt the story ended with hope, some challenges and a lot of optimism. Which is a miracle all things considered. The final scene was wonderful to read.

So, Book I is over. I get the sense that, even if Anaxantis isn't followed as closely in subsequent Books, his actions will continue to affect the plot of any set story in his time. There are a couple of loose ends I can think of and plenty new threads started in this chapter. Easily enough to keep up my interest during the inter-Book gap so I'll wait patiently for more while you enjoy your well-earned break

Thank you so much; this has been an utterly wonderful story form start to finish - I hope Mandigaill appreciated it too. Always looking forward to hearing more from Randamor and your other stories.

You fixed it! You made it better! *hugs you to death* I didn't think it was even possible to make things better but you did. Well... so far. It's sad that the brothers are going to be tricking/killing anaxantis.

I'm hoping this won't be a lesson on how sometimes plots are pointless and brute strength works better i.e. the plot to kill him with a mob might work because of its simplicity, but the plot to draw him into battle and measure his strength and so on might be too detailed and fail.

I'm hoping everything turns out lovely and awesome. I'm pleading with you not to have anaxantis murder any of the pages to prove a point... at least, not any of the ones I like.

Lorck and Timishi are perfect together... the unfaceted stone metaphor was a nice touch by the way, don't go thinking it was too mushy. It worked, you made sure to use it well and not go to far with it. I'm glad Ambrick is suffering suitably for what he did. You broke my heart momentarily with the 'you used to love me' but... upon reflection I think I just demanded his eternal suffering and was justly rewarded.

Oh my, oh my, oh my! I understood, by reading the contents of the letters Anaxantis sent to his mother, father and the Order of the Great Goddess that he was asserting his rule over the northern regions of Ximerion and severing the ties that bound him one way or another to Ximerion in general, but “Warlord of Great Renuvia”? It seems that the battle of Zinchara was the beginning of an all out war with everyone really, and not the war itself. Good!

And also it is interesting to see the reactions that his letters have caused to the recipients. His mother feeling betrayed and sad that her son has left her out of his plantings and machinations after her “guidance” all those years (and I really liked how Sobrathi tried to soften the “blow” – I really like her a character), Tenaxos the senior feeling that he bit more than he could chew, the younger Tenaxos´ opportunistic shifting of “loyalties” and Portonas´ - dangerous in its own way – line of thinking.

And I think that things will go even worse for the Order. After all, they tried to control Anaxantis, they failed miserably after he found out about their involvement, and more specifically, after he has shown that when he issues a threat, he will see to it that it will be carried out.

And the Ehandar/Tarno & Anaxantis relationship – I understood now where I got it wrong, since I thought that this relationship was so dysfunctional that it could not work out no matter what, and I am glad that I got it wrong! I couldn’t believe how relieved I felt when I saw how things turned out in the end between them – there is hope after all! YAY!

And finally, why do I have the feeling that this whole I-love-you-to-death-but-I-killed-your-father relationship between Lorcko and Timishi will be a bit turbulent (to say the least)? Because Ambrick may not have a tongue anymore, and broken fingers and various other pieces of anatomy that are missing (the poor (?) thing?), but there is always a possibility of communication.

I am really happy with how this Book has ended. There might not be closure on many things, and I may have a million questions about happen with his person, or that situation, and you certainly have made me curious as hell about how this story will continue, with all the promising battles ahead, but in the end, I am happy. I wish I could see the continuation as soon as possible, but I understand that you have to rest and take your distance from this for a while. As long as you promise us that you will continue it at some point in the future, I will be happy and waiting.

*hugs*

Nem

glad to know that the king and their oher brothers couldn't touch them now. i was erally teary-eyed when both ana and ehandar said their love for each other. good to know that he has finally forgiven ehandar for his wrongdoings. and the escape route, i was sure that it was for ana himself, but he had ir made for ehandar to escape if anything were to happen to him. i really do hope that the chain they bind themselves to is undone now.
thanks for the wonderful update~

I am as giddy as a school girl right now but sad at the same time. I love happy endings, and in my opinion, Book I ended on a happy note (a bit foreboding, but happy enough for me) but then I realized, this book is done! Finished!

Really happy to see Lorcko and his Mukthar prince together glad to see their relationship develop so nicely. Timishi's character is one of my favourite. He is so sweet and would do anything for Lorcko, but can be so ruthless to others. He will be a good ruler, hehehe. And the pretty boy got to top thinking it's Timishi's first time? hahaha that was sweet of Timishi. Like I said, I think he is really smitten with Lorcko. I hope they have many happy babies together

I just feel bad for the "Thing" (forgot how to spell his name, "Ambrick"?) I know he deserves to suffer, but maybe this is too much? Timishi wanted revenge and wanted Lorcko to be safe, I understand, I just feel he might've went overboard a bit? But on the other hand, if you plan to keep the enemy alive, you don't want him 'talking', so make sure he doesn't, right? grrr there are not many pleasant choices left to decide... I really felt a pang in my gut when Timishi said to break his fingers. Poor miserable thing. Again, drawing parallels between Timishi and Anaxantis, both made some cruel decisions, but both decided to keep their kaptives alive. Both have a heart of gold for their loved ones, and a wicked personality, for those who cross them. Both are princes fighting for survival and both have found love of their life. Of the two, I think Timishi had more friends growing up, so his confidence is stronger, while Anaxantis really only had his mother. It is tough to know what is best (which path is best to take) when you learn from one source. So, I think Anaxantis has it a lot tougher. I really hope now that Anaxantis finally has his Ehandar back, he will have someone to talk to and tell all his worries and thoughts to. It would be nice to see two of them fighting together Such romantic mush, I know...

You do not understand how happy I was with the way the whole Anaxantis and Ehandar drama turned out. I know that they may not have the "happily ever after" life in the books to come, but at last for now, I can have this stupid grin on my face. It was absolute bliss reading their conversation and thoughs. Whatever you have written is exactly how I feel. Crimes cannot be forgotten, but some can be forgiven. Especially if the person who comitted the crime is absolutely repentant and if the victim feels in their heart that they can forgive. Not sure if I can express my feelings and thoughts on this very well, but I basically agree with what you have written. In my opinion, it is the perfect ending for Book I. Thank you.

And yeah, absolutely squeed when you mentioned Rullio I want more of his escapades and I will be restless until the next Book. Hope you have some rest and will be looking forward to your other stories.

Will I be glad or will I be sad that I am wrong?

I asked you because the title of your last chapter is also the song title of one of Velvet Underground´s.

Have we seen the "by the Right of Arms" phrase somewhere else before or have you used a similar expression?

Is there going to be a break between this book and the next one?

I've been following the story on Aarinfantasy, but I recently discovered that there were more chapters here. This is definitely one of my favorite online fictions - keep up the great work! It's really amazing how you manage to update every other week, especially with the chapters so long.

If you ever get the time, it would be great to have a pronunciation guide. I love how unique the names are, but I spend way too much time trying to figure out the correct way to say them. I guess when you think about it, that doesn't make too much sense since I can never be sure whether I'm right, but I really can't help myself.

Wow, I didn't realize the next chapter would be the last. Even though, "There are no endings. Pauses, yes. At most," just how long are these pauses? Are we talking months, years, generations? Not to mention that the next story Randamor tells doesn't necessarily have to be in chronological order.

One chapter hardly seems enough to tie up all the loose ends. Unfortunately, it also seems more than enough for a tragic ending or cliff hanger. Then again, last chapter doesn't equal the end in this case. Nevertheless, when I went back to read what Randamor said in chapter 1, phrases such as "downfall of a prince" and "how royal blood came to fall so low" seemed to give the book a bleak outlook. Since the tale is entitled Anaxantis and The Invisible Chains, I assume that Anaxantis's chains will come to some sort of resolution. Throughout the story Anaxantis has accumulated many chains but the heaviest ones originated with Ehandar. After everything that has happened, I hope Anaxantis and Ehandar can have some sort of happy ending, though that really doesn't seem likely at this point.

Anaxantis's decision about blinding the Mukthars caught me off guard at first. I wondered what could have made him come to such a decision. Then when I thought about it, what else could he do? Once he set the prerequisites of sparing his people the burden of the Mukthars and letting the Mukthars live yet unable to retaliate, his options were severely limited. Bias though Randamor's opinion may be, I believe that at least in this instance he was correct in his reasoning.

Randamor... by far the most mysterious character in play. Despite his status as the title character, not much beyond his gender is known. I wish I knew what the current year was. It might give some clue as to who Randamor is. It'd be interesting to see whether Anaxantis has been dead for hundreds of years or if he is currently the reigning king. To be able to spin such an elaborate tale... just who is he?! In the beginning I speculated that he had to be someone close to Anaxantis to know such details, but even if he were Anaxantis himself he couldn't have possibly known all those perspectives. Granted that story tellers are free to embellish as they please, I wonder how much of Randamor's tale is truth versus fiction.

Ack, I hate it when Anaxantis is right! He could have done something else with the Mukthars - like sent them as workers all around the Marches to farm or mine but that wouldn't have prevented another attack.

Though it was still harsh, he doesn't let himself forget that. It was really sad to read how much he was hurting himself. It's just so ... so noble of him. And poor Hemarchidas...

I'm glad Anaxantis made up with Arranulf; those two's circumstances are too similar for them not to like each other. And Ryhunzo, my little ray of sunshine, I will always giggle and agree with him that it will be awesome. It's great that Londo is okay, too. I like her a lot, she has good taste in Lorcko I'm not ashamed to say that my heart leaps up at the slightest mention of him and I'm thankful beyond belief that he in the 'you'll be fine' tent.

Anaxantis has been busy - already got the whole of the Plains divided up between his friends? Well, they earned it and they'll make for a much better nobility than a lot of the ones floating around at the moment. Still, he pushed himself too hard at the end there. It was like he regressed so that he came home as weak and helpless as he was right at the start.

Which, as always, leaves us with Ehandar. So many emotions in this chapter, I doubt I can list them all. First, happy that he seemed more himself and was trying to think of a way to fix things. Next, realisation and horror at what he planned to do, mixed with the strange rightness of it - it would, in some ways, solve everything. And then... then compassion. He finally saw what Anaxantis has known for a long time; it can't be fixed. Not completely. All that pain and saddness condensed into the moment where Anaxantis is dreaming and Ehandar can't wake him, both suffering, both alone. As you can probably tell, it struck me as rather symbolic of their whole relationship.

And choosing to become Tarno seemed fitting too. Anaxantis told Hemarchidas that if he had asked, he would have given Ehandar everything he took. And he vowed to take everything from Ehandar "I will obliterate you, blot you out, extinguish you" By becoming Tarno, Ehandar -willingly- gave his brother that last bit of his revenge. It kind of proves that Ehandar loves Anaxantis just as much as Anaxantis loves him. Which, natuarally makes the whole thing all the sadder.

But - one more chapter left! ( I assume from Randamor's comment there is only one left) And a lot can happen in a chapter... It's seriously weird to think that this particular story will be ending so soon but it's been written with such skill and detail that I don't feel like anyhting is left incomplete. I trust you more than enough to know that any loose ends left loose will be done so intentionally and the final chapter(s?) of Book 1 will be satisfying and wonderful - as all the others have been.

Sorry, but I'm gonna talk about Ehandar first...

It scared the hell out of me that he was about to kill himself. I actually imagined him doing the same thing the minute Ana entered the room. But surprisingly, ANa saved him and he doesn't know it.. But it was really heart-wrenching seeing to which point he reached.. then again, he knows that Ana will be devastated if he died.. both choices are hard to decide which one is better.. He loved Ana, yet he's scared of himself, he can't forgive himself and he can't undo what he did.. And when he heard Ana whimpering in his sleep, it only made things worse.. if he had hoped that Ana might forgive him one day, that hope was vanished the moment he heard Ana pleading for him in his sleep.. I'm just glad that Ana didn't wake up that moment to find Ehandar in front of him, it would have been terrifying to both of them.. Now I wonder what's gonna happen? I can see that Ana won't just forgive him easily, nor will he set him free. He loves Ehandar in his own way and he wants to keep him with him.. yet he wants his Ehandar back.. what's he gonna do in this predicament??

I'm glad that everything went as planned with the enemies. I could see now that he didn't have another choice, but this will forever be a weight on his shoulder. He'll forever remember their anguished cries and the sight of the flame being put out in their eyes.. But he could prove that he's a real warlord.. he saved his people and his land as well.. The Mukthars will think a million times before attacking them again..

Now I wonder what's gonna happen with the other Mukthars? What's gonna happen with Timi and his people? Now that he defeated the enemy's prince, is he gonna be the new one?? And what will happen between him and Lorcko? How will their relationship develp? Or will they have to part away??

Also, what's gonna happen to Rullio and Garth? The war is over, ne, so will they be kept as prisoner for long? I Just wonder if we will see them again..

Great update as always sweetie.. loved it even though it was heart-breaking at some parts (you know what I mean ) But I loved it a loooooooooooot and waiting for the last chappy.. though I'm sad that it's gonna end..

For a while there, you had me believing that Ehandar would make another huge mistake in order to rectify his first one (although now that I think of it I am not so sure that it would be a huge mistake, apart from the fact that the story would end here) – but in the end I saw that he chose a different way. Although, I am not sure that what he did in the end was the right choice also. But, I do not think that there is something that can be done in order to put things right, no matter how much they love each other, since it is Ehandar the one Anaxantis wants and not Tarno (which is Anaxantis´ creation), but Ehandar is scared that he will harm Anaxantis if he remains Ehandar. I know that my thoughts look a bit jumbled on this subject, but this is really a grey-muddy area *sigh*.

But I really love tragic figures in books, movies etc (if I didn’t, the Dune books series and the Godfather movie series wouldn’t be my favourite), and this is right up there. And speaking of tragic figures, Anaxantis seems to be taking the advice of his mother (never issue a threat that you are not prepared to carry out) very-very seriously. I feel sorry for him – he must be a very lonely man with only his inner demons keeping him company – and from such a young age.

And the irrelevant question of the day: Do you like/listen to the Velvet Underground?

I was really happy that Anaxantis seemed to recognize and acknowledge the help from the pages (and now I think that I understood more clearly what you said before, i.e. that he does the same with Arranulf as he does with Ehandar — though less extreme).

And there is something Randamor said at the end of the chapter that made me wonder the about something: Up till now, Tenaxos seemed to “test” (for lack of a better word), initially his sons and then Anaxantis, and he seemed to admire and feel proud about how Anaxantis managed to overcome everything he threw in his way, possibly considering him a good candidate for the Devil´s Crown. Now that Anaxantis managed to contain the Mukthar threat, will he face his father, in battle or in any other way? Will there be an Oedipal setting, i.e. son killing the father etc, etc, or something else?

finally got to find out how the battle has turned out. too bad an's personality makes him take thing s too seriously. i wish he didn't have to oversee the blinding of the captives, that will surely leave a scar to that lasts.

the events aftrer the battle was at least heartwarming. like the energizer couple's conversation which always lead to some gruesome romantic tragedy. glad to know the four of them wont be punished anymore,and that ana was thankful for them for saving him. and he also invited him to the clan.now, ana can finally start his vision of the marches. and he also made his friends nobles and gave them land.

and finally, thank god tarno did not continue his suicide! it was heart-wrenching how he contemplated to kill himself. at least he decided to stay with ana, however twisted thei relationship had become. and i finally get to know why the title the invisible chains.

thanks for the great update and now i'm looking forward to know more of the story.

I hope this comment doesn't get cut off like my two previous ones

What a wonderful chapter. I felt the initial relief of the 'day after', once the battle has ended and the decision to blind the Mukthars was executed. But then you pick the pace righ up with Anaxantis planning and worrying about the future. Poor little Anaxantis, no time to rest. His life is just about making most difficult decisions. Just reminds you that life is not always a breeze and some people suffer a great deal through theirs - doesn't matter which side you are on. Some may say that they rather be blind but alive, while others rather be dead than blind. I think a decision had to be made and Anaxantis did the right thing (although I might've blinded one eye instead of both, but who knows). In a ruthless world, you have to protect yourself as best as you know how. Anaxantis' world is a lot more barbaric then ours today, so I keep reminding myself

On a lighter note, the pages were as cute as ever and I love good old doc even more now. Hemarchidas is just a big softy, I've realised that long time ago and I wish he and Nulfie would just kissie kissie . Timishi can be so ruthless, just as much as Anaxantis I think, and just like Anaxantis, he has a soft side. But unlike Anaxantis, Timishi seems more in control of who he is (I might be misguided there).

Londo made me laugh when she was 'hitting on' poor sleeping Lorcko! I keep imagining her looking like Pink for some reason - pretty but not your typical feminine beauty. I do hope for some news on Rullio, perhaps next chapter? hehehe my darling Rullio. And I do wish for another sweet scene between Timishi and Lorcko. I wonder if it will happen

And one last thing, Ehandar had me on pins and needles the whole time. Man you are killing me with this boy. I can't help my forgiving heart. I love it that he kept the sheets on when Anaxantis walked in, he must've looked like a Greek god in a toga (well, ok, that's how I envisioned him). But now I need to know what happens when Anaxantis wakes up. I can't handle the suspense . Maybe I'll just start reading from the beginning again and see if I will change my opinion on certain things.

All good characters are biased though... it's what makes them human. Randamor is biased, so I'm not about to take his word on everything. We'll just have to agree to disagree on the whole 'removing the mukthar's eyes with a poker' thing. It's possible to justify most things in ways that sound logical. The nuclear bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, for example, is often justified by historians.

But even when I can see the logic, I don't agree with it. I don't agree with Anaxantis' descision or Randamor's assessment either. But what is more interesting to me is WHY Randamor is biased. I'm hoping this tale is a chance to find out.

More adjustments to Anaxantis and Ehandar's relationship? Ehandar can die, Anaxantis can be killed, they can both throw themselves out of the tower window at this point and I'd be satisfied. It's messed up and it needs to be fixed, even if the resolution is a tradgedy or is empty or meaningless. It just needs to end. It's torture right now.

The pages remain absolute darlings. I loved 'Eternal Bloom of my Perennial Happiness': delusions of tragic heroism never fail to delight.

I'm glad Anaxantis could still present a facade of normality for them; he needs to be able to inspire those around him in order to rule. Only those closest to him should know how well he suffers, although they're all broken-hearted by how much he punishes himself. The closer people get to Anaxantis the more depressed they become as they get caught up in the misery that punctuates his life. And for all that, he's still amazing. I'll fogive him eventually for his treatment of the bad mukthars because you've shown us what he's capable of being. I hope things don't culminate in a horrible mess.

Ok, how about the Battle of Cannae, in 216 BC, between the Carthaginian and Roman forces?

And, finally, with regards to the encirclement of enemies in battle, well, there are some battles closer to home, such as the Marathon battle in the Greco-Persian wars (although there was a natural barrier there as well - water), the battle of Alexander the Great with the Scythians, or even the encirclement of enemies at sea, with the periplous – I do not know if you had something like that in mind.

A few that come to mind (since we are talking about archers and longbows and cavalry), are the battles of Crécy and Poitiers and the battle of Agincourt. As for Anaxantis´ "bag"-stratagem, I think that I will have to get back to you on that.

Well I wish I could claim that it was very very clever of me, exceptionally even , but I have to admit that I took a shortcut of sorts, since I was taught about this in school...

So, when will we see the next chapter?

Arranulf was so brave about what he did, I felt bad for him when I read Ana's reaction. He should have seen what the young man did for him. But the part where he smiled when Hem hugged Arranulf, I thought for a second he did that on purpose, but then again, Ana isn't himself anymore after this war.

I felt horrible for both Shermy and Lethoras, but worse for Shermy.. he was such a cute and funny young man. It didn't surprise me though that he saved Lorcko's life with his own. The only thing I kept saying while he was dying in his arms "he knew he loves Timi, yet he saved him." it really made me on the verge of tears.. I'm gonna miss this little guy. And Lethoras, he's lucky he's still alive and Ana will help him with his lost leg just like he promised..

And Lorcko, I couldn't blame him for the rage with in him after Shermy's death, and yet he did the same thing, saving Timi even though it cost him a scar on his face. Yet, Timi was so gentle and kind with him, telling him all those kind words.. They really do a good pair..

Now that the war is over, and they won and Ana finally got rid of that traitor general.. What's he gonna do now? Go on with his plan about the prisoners? Can't he just find another solution? It's just the war changed him into someone else, someone so cruel and I fear the results for later.. He's going to regret it if he went through with it and it's going to leave a mark on him forever.

Also, I fear now that he's going home that he might do something else he'll regret to Ehandar.. I can't predict what's gonna happen between them now, but with this new Ana, I fear for my Ehandar.

Anways, loooooooooooooooooooooved this update to death.. it was brutal, sad but it satisfied me in many ways.. Thank you sweetie for this update and waiting for the next one on the edge

Oh I knew about desertion in more modern times... it's just, especially in medieval times I was hoping to encounter a particularly satisfying level of gore. Well done on delivering that by the way

Not quite so satisfying when inflicted upon soldiers that have already surrendered. The only problem with doing something like that (all morality aside) is that it makes the other side much less likely to surrender. Now every Mukthar will call him Tmeritektos and each man will fight to the death before he surrenders. He'll be fighting desperate men. And desperate men are far more dangerous, it's harder to predict how they'll behave.

I can see what you meant about the pages: they moved around a lot. Especially Lorcko, whom I now love so much that if I had it my way he'd be wrapped in so much cotton wool that Timishi would have to roll him home. I do find it confusing that Timishi and Anaxantis have such similar colours, but I'm used to it now. Thank you for the update, it was most excellent

I wanted to read all the chapters first before posting my comments. It was really selfish of me, but I wanted to read as much as I could, as fast as I could to catch up with the story so that I could proceed to post comments regularly... if that makes any sense. So, off with my praises and rants

First of all, I love this story. It has everything I love in it: boy love, drama, war scenes, boy love, flawed but loved characters, intriguing and interesting plot, very complicated characters, and more boy love!!!

Second, you are doing an excellent job in making my head spin from Anaxantis to Ehandar, and which one I feel most sad for. They are both doomed, in my opinion. I think the reason why I feel so much for Ehandar is because you give his torture a lot more light than you did to Anaxantis'. That is pretty clever of you smilies/wink.gif I do love them both, and I can only see two possible endings: 1) they both die together, in love; 2) they both live like two princes they are, in love hahaha I know, I read way too much Shakespeare and Jane Austen >.>

Rullio! I love Rullio!! I had to yell that out. He makes my day. I can't get enough of him and his 'exciting' travels. I think he is my favourite

Wow, war has changed him. I can't tell if this is his demons rising up again or if this is how Anaxantis is going to become. Everyone present knows he will regret this but no one is trying to stop him - yet, anyway. I really hope he comes to himself before it's too late. Then again, Randamor said it was a bitter tale.

The battle was brilliant - I'm so glad all the training paid off. The archers were fantastic, just looking at the maps showed what a difference they made. There were several moments that made me gasp - the pages running to the fray (heroic little idiots), Arranulf being noble and magnificent yet again and, of course, Shermy.

Poor, poor Shermy. I can't think of anything to say but that. Poor Shermy. Oh, and poor Lethoras too... war isn't pleseant.

And Lorcko! I may have screamed when I read about his face... his beautiful face. On the other hand, Timishi was so kind it's almost worth Lorcko having gone through the pain to have Timishi at the end of it. I'm so happy they are together They're always going to be my favourites.

Anaxantis overreated with the pages. I thought maybe he had some kind of plan, another attempt to set up Arranulf and Hermarchidas perhaps; his response just seemed too extreme considering the Landemere cavelry came in very handy and wouldn't have come as quickly, or at all, without Arranulf. Then I got the end end of the chapter and came to the assumption Anaxantis has lost his mind. I understand the difficulties of keeping the Mukthars prisoner but there must be less extreme ways to deal with it. If he couldn't release them or imprison them without using up resources, Anaxantis could have set up something like the Royal Farms he's been threatening Tarno with. That would take time but it could be a long term solution to a problem that's only going to get worse if he plans on taking the planes. Or he could have handed them over to Timishi - who needs to build up his numbers again and I doubt the prisoners would be welcomed home if surrender is so dishonorable.

I think that about covers it, thank you for another intriguiing chapter

his actions might have been just what was needed, since it is a different thing to order the cavalry to go and a different thing to lead it to it

So, this is it? Two more chapters and the first book ends?

the Byzantine Emperor Basil II...

I hope so, because I think that there is more to him (Randamor) than meets the eye, i.e. a simple tale teller; he seems to know an awful lot about situations and feelings that no one should know unless there were there so see them, feel them or live them.

First of all, let me say this: Oh my, what an ending! Even after reading the solution of the “What does Tmeritektos mean”, I couldn’t see how this word would fit in with the story. And in the few last lines I did…

Of course, at some point we would see the actions what would brand him as “cold and heartless” as Randamor said at some point in the story, but simply knowing something and then seeing how it is actually done are two different things.

And of course, people in difficult spots and in positions of power often have to make terrible decisions to protect what they need to protect (especially if they are clever and can see far), and often (if not always) the price that they will have to pay will be high, and they will have to bear the weight of their decisions alone. Will this happen here as well? Who knows (apart from you mean) - I guess, we shall have to wait and see.

I am sorry about Shermy, he was such a very likable character! And I wonder, will Lorcko ever find out what happened to his father, now that he has been re-united with Timishi? And I think that Timishi, (after expressing his interest like for Lorcko this), is a big softie at heart

And I have to say “Hooray!” to Anaxantis for winning the battle and punishing Demrack Tarngord – he had it coming. Although I think that Anaxantis was lenient towards him, since Tarngord´s action jeopardized greatly the whole situation.

I also I think that Anaxantis´ reaction towards Arranulf was a bit over-the-top, ungrateful and shortsighted (sorry for the badmouthing), seeing that Arranulf´s action was the second turning point of the battle (the first being Timishi´s help), and the thing that actually gave a fighting chance to Anaxantis´ army. I can understand it up to a point, since a) he had given his promise to Athildis and b) with all the adrenaline that was pumped into his system it would be difficult to control his actions – but he still imo should be more careful with what he said.

And one more question: Was this the war or simply a battle?

So, do you have any more puzzles for us?

And a final question: Who is Randamor really?

Ehandar is just breaking my heart with every scene he's in. He's just so broken and doesn't know what to do. Deep down, he knows that he wants to undo what he has done, but he knows that he can't.. he knows that it's hard to take it back and make it like it never happened.. But one way or another, he knows that his words and promises won't do him any good.. he knows that he has to do something and it's just so hard to figure out what he should do. I'm just scared that he might think that his death will be the only solution. I just hope things won't come to this.

And now to Ana and the war.. he and his army falling apart one by another by the hands of the enemy. His idea was a suicidal one. He never should have done that, but yeah, he wanted to show his army that he wasn't scared.. and now his situation turned into a predicament.. Lets hope that Timi will come in time..

On the other hand, the General, that traitor.. what is he thinking.. Can't he tell that lives are going to be wasted if he didn't move? I really hope that the captain will go against him and give the right order.. I also hope that Ana will win this war and will punish that TRAITOR severely..

And last, I still love the pages, but now i fear for them.. They're close to the war scene and I fear for their lives.. Lets just hope that things won't get worse than this.. yeah I know this one doesn't have a happy ending, but you can't stop me from hoping, ne??

For the war scene, you wrote that scene brilliantly. I know it took you much time to write it and you did a great job.

Thank you honey for yet another great update and I'm waiting for the next one like always patiently.

Thank you, I went to the blog section and had a good reading. However, I am still wondering about Demrac Tarngord, since in that post in the blog, there wasn`t any expansion on that subject.

And I also read you post about Tmeritektos - and I remember 3 direct references to ancient Baltoc - the name Mandigaill, the name Tarno and the phrase “Venre dal terundar”. Now I am sure that when you explain the meaning of the word and the two core words that are the basis of it, I will say "Ok, it was there all along and I didn´t see it", but for now I can´t, for the life of me, remember anything else. Asking for a small hint would be too much, wouldn´t it?

That slimy two-faced toe-rag! If a single clansman lives through this they will murder him! He's got half the army just standing there when Anaxantis needs some back-up!

Still, Anaxantis should have stuck to his plan - all that training and those maneuvers he had the army drilled in and then Timishi turning up in the perfect position to block the Mukthar's retreat - and he just charged straight in the second he saw an opening!
I know you can't blame him; he's never been in battle before, he's young and needed to show his army he wasn't afraid. But still! Somewhere in all his reading about stratagy he must have learned that you never charge into the middle of the enemy without a clear exit strategy.

Gah! Ah well, something will happen. My guess is the captains will ignore Tarngord's orders and go to help Anaxantis anyway. Or something will happen to the Mukthars - like they will all aim for the Achillies tendon and stumble when the new shoes block the attack giving Anaxantis' soldiers an opening to attack. Okay, maybe that's a little far fetched but I don't believe that Anaxantis will die here - mostly because he hasn't become everything Randamor described before he started the story.

And, of course, there would be no resolution of the Ehandar/Tarno issue. It must be so hard for him to half remember who he was but at least it proves Ehandar is still in there somewhere, that he hasn't been completely broken. If Anaxantis could see how badly Ehandar wishes he could take it back... I don't know, it wouldn't magically solve everything because he can't take it back. But at least it would show Anaxantis that he isn't the only one trying to fix it.

To end on a high; Timishi is, an always will be, awesome. I'm glad he and Anaxantis defined their relationship (mostly because it stops them being a couple thus leaving Timishi free for Lorcko... what can I say? I like reading about them together). It also makes it very clear they are allies so Timishi has the support he originally needed and the Ximerionian army should be less jumpy about having Mukthars on their side.

How you managed to write a battle scene so it's interesting, informative and the pace increases throughout, I will never know; suffice to say I'm very impressed. Thank you for the chapter and I cannot wait for the next one.

Hello again – I am back after my long absence. I read form chapter 35 to this last one in two goes - since it is quite large - and let me put it this way: Wow! I know, not very eloquent, but this is the best I can do this early in the morning.

I like the way the story progressed, how the characters evolved:

a) I just love the Pages to bits (I know that I´ve said that before, but I really do love them)!
b) I didn’t see all these changes in Lorcko and Ambrick coming, and seeing where
Ambrick´s obsession brought him was really intense
c) It makes you wonder what will happen with Tarno/Ehandar

d) Reading about the good doctor is always a pleasure!

e) I wonder how will Lee-Lack and Norri-Nack fit in the story from now on

f) I loved the reference to the “Godfather” btw

g) I was glad that nothing happened to Tomar, I really like him, and he seems like he
had a rough childhood
h) I really-really hope that Demrac gets exemplary punishment, because what he did
was treasonous
i) I wonder, will Emelasuntha ever meet her son face to face?

j) Have you ever read a book series called “A song of Ice and Fire”?

k) The battle has started – great! And also, thank you for taking the time creating the
maps, they help a lot.

Also, why did you stop posting in Fictionpress?

Well, that’s all from me for now – I hope we see an update soon!

Cheers!

Traitors! Scoundrels! Dogs! I'll get them! You see if I don't! How dare he refuse to fight?! What does he think will happen if Anaxantis wins? After this, does he think there will be any mercy. Desertion is surely punishable by death when people are still fighting with swords and shields?!

*regains composure*

Anyways, thank you so much for the maps. Lifesavers. I counted the number of blocks each time and how they changed just to make sure I understood everything before I continued reading. And GO TIMISHI! I loved the idea of neither of them being in charge.

'Close the bag' what did Anaxantis mean? And why didn't he just spell it out? Well... I guess there's less intrigue for us that way... less tension in the plot... maybe even a tactical reason such as the presence of spies. It does look like trouble's on the way too, since even Anaxantis was panicking.

I'm worried about the Pages; but it does seem like their deaths would have a greater significance than I first thought, and that might spare a few lives. Can you mark in future maps where they are?

so i was thinking about this the other night, or thinking about rape in general- and i realized that i really do want to see tarno die. it doesn't make sense in the real world because what's done is done and having someone die doesn't change the past (though it does influence the future, i suppose). it's one thing to have that syndrome where the victim sympathizes/falls in love with the perpetrator, but i guess in A's case he was in love before all that. so yeah, i'm babbling, but i just wanted you to know that you definitely got some gears rolling around in my head.

i like seeing all these new characters (actually, i admit that i'm at the same time confused because it's hard to keep track of everyone by now. my fault, not yours). and this couple with the older lady, very nice. (not necessarily my cupatea, but nice to see the 'taboos' in our modern world represented here )

this chapter reminded me of the carefree/easygoing A that I've missed. his bantering with H about the armor and helmet was so endearing. he's changed quite a bit since the beginning of the book but i love seeing his old self surface every once in awhile. time changes people, doesn't it...

and lorcko, i like his character. i like that he's human and realistically so.
I like the doctor and Lorcko. I feel like i'm redundant in saying this. but i like them.

and ohfuck, emo A. i just want A to be happy, is that so wrong T__________T. A part of me wants T/E punished, but does that actually solve anything? because i feel like the problem is that A still has feelings for him, and by hurting E, he's indirectly hurting himself as well. and E really has hurt A so much previously that he doesn't deserve to further hurt A (indirectly by serving his lawful punishment

"This was not Tarno who had spoken" that sent a chill down my spine.

and regarding what the narrator said about A unable to shirk his responsibilities- proof that A is truly his mother's son.

yikes, i don't know anything about war, but sounds like A will have to come up with a new plan very fast. I don't have anything to add to this comment because I don't know anything about war and I'm sure that whatever A comes up with will be a million times more brilliant than the average joe. because he's A (and you are the writer and i do have so much faith in you

Thank heaven the evil Mukthars need water! That might just have given Anaxantis the time he needs to get his army together again. They're still hugely disadvangtaged - the only way forward seems to be to play right into the enemy's hands but at least thay have some time.

There was always something about Lee-Lack that didn't sit quite right - I couldn't tell what I thought abuot him but now he's making a bit more sense. It didn't surprise me when he killed them all (or tried to). It'll be interesting to see what Norri-Nack does now that he thinks he is the sole surviver but I somehow doubt he'll be happy when he finds out what Lee-Lack did - if he ever finds out.

Anaxantis and Lorcko get along really well which is so sweet to read. They present such different faces to the world but they have quite a bit in common personality wise. I'm glad someone told Lorcko to forgive himself because if he ever wants to really move on, that's a major step. And it showed Anaxantis that it's possible to forgive someone if they decide to change. "Let those who have a beef with that guy go look for him and take it up with him" - that's almost a perfect description of what Anaxantis was trying to do when he broke Ehandar and inadvdertantly created Tarno. Hopefully he's a little closer to resolution.

Speaking of resolution... oh Ambrick, you poor bitter fool. Why couldn't you give up? But no, not only do you decide it's a good idea to chase down a group of ruthless Mukthars (albeit very charming ruthless Mukthars) but you also drag Lorcko's father in to it. I blame Ambrick for Volcko's death. How could he have been so stupid? What did he think would happen? That he would trick Volcko into killing Timishi just to hurt Lorcko? Idiot.
What happened to him was... grousome. The whole situation can't really be put into terms of whether or not he deserved it. I can't say that I felt sorry for him, just a bit saddened that his hate and jealousy had brought him to this. I can't help but remember when he was first introduced and I hoped he could put aside his insecurities and Lorcko could stop treating people like dirt so that they could be happy and now... now Lorcko has come so far and changed so much but Ambrick could only become cruel and dark and now he's been utterly destroyed by it. At least he can't do anything else now.

As always, thank you for the chapter. Sorry it took me so long to comment; I've been busy as a centipede skipping.

It's still scary to know that the war is about to happen, to see the Mukthars prince plotting and all for Ana's fall and his defeat. But somehow I know that Ana won't fail his people, at least I hope so.. And I know if worse comes to worst, he has a plan for his own so he won't be captured alive.

Ana sometimes pisses me off, sometimes I pity him. He says to Lorcko to let go and forgive himself yet he himself can't do that. I agree with Crave, knowing what to do is one thing, but doing it is another.. easier said than done, but at least I hope something inside of him will change during this war. And IF he survives, I hope he'll do the right thing.. IF again is Ehandar is still alive by then.

Which reminds me, the Mukthars prince seems smart as well.. I don't know why, but my mind wandered to Ehandar who is being kept naked and alone in the tower. What if the enemy knows about that and maybe.. just maybe he will hold that as a weak point to Ana.. I could be totally wrong, I'm aware of that.. but sometimes I can't stop about it.. But after all, lets see what's gonna happen.

Timi.. that scene with Lorcko was actually warming.. I get to see even a warmer and a passionate side of Timi.. It seems that he's already fallen too deep for him.. But now I wonder that he and the rest of his people met, what are they gonna do to join Ana? I hope he'll manage to join them cuz really Ana needs them even if he denied it.

And finally Ambrick got what he deserves.. getting himself caught by Timishi and his men and fcked up like that.. I'm not sorry for him at all.. Timi really got Lorcko's revenge, though he killed his father not knowing who he was.. lets hope that Lorcko won't find out about that incident.. But Really, I was satisfied after reading what they did to Amb.. he was plotting against Lorcko, yet he got himself enslaved.. serves him right.

All in all.. I really loved this update a looooooooooooooooooooooooooot for many reasons.. Thanks honey for yet another great update.. waiting for the next one patiently

Hooray for medieval justice! Ambrick is an inhuman thing, Anaxantis is realising that he should forgive Ehandar... although knowing what you should do - what is best - and actually doing it, are two different things.

I really hope my favourite pages will be okay (I'm with EscapeArtist on the nameless masses front... far better that the characters I love are separated from this whole war, which is currently turning into a mess (even with all the maps) what with everyone appearing to simply chase the war around while the non-awesome mukthars rape and pillage as they see fit. On the other hand, the Mukthars are low on water and fighting on unfamiliar terrain... in wars these things are often the real deciding factors so I'm far from giving up hope of a victory for Anaxantis.

Thanks for the update

Well. That was a case of cash karma, Ambrick getting himself brutalized and enslaved just as he was engineering his revenge on Lorcko. Blood flowing everywhere, confusion reigns, its a mess for sure. And the pages under excellent leadership struggling on, though blocking the road to the next battle. Good job by Obyann and Arranulf for their determination.

Methinks we need a miracle to get out of this mess. And I bet you have one, too!
I love how you tell this story.

Always the social butterfly, Anaxantis. It's good to know that the people of Dermolhea trust him even if they do choose to show it in a rather unhelpful way.

I think Rodomesh is right - Anaxantis would be grateful for anything they have to offer. I love reading about him and Timishi; they get along so well and they always have a different perspective to the Ximerionians.

You put that bit with Tarno in just to depress us didn't you? There has to be a way for it to be like that again - if Ehandar could just re-appear and remind Anaxantis how happy they were, even if a percentage of it was acting on Anaxantis' part while he set up his revenge. But the war takes priority, as it should, so I doubt there wil be a chance for a long time to make things right. I'm glad Hemarchidas didn't turn back. I want to belive Anaxantis knew what his friend was planning and chose to save Tarno but it's probably more likely he didn't want to be left with his own thoughts about the comming battle.

Which is fair enough, all things considered. Mirkadesh! No one even contemplated that the Mukthars would behave differenty this time - it's such a huge oversight but it didn't cross my mind. If it did I must have thought 'I'm sure Anaxantis knows what he's doing' which, obviously, he couldn't. What happened was horrific, "graphic description of armed conflict and the sacking of villages" - that seems to cover it pretty well, I'm just relieved I re-read the warning a couple of days ago.

I feel kind of bad for Timishi though; Anaxantis was so angry at him. It's understandable that he was angry but now Timishi will be even more reluctant to bargin with him and they really need all the help they can get - especially if that includes a mounted force already on the Plains and free to move. Looking at the map, the quickest way to Ghiasht probably is over the Plains, though that might take them past the main body of the Mukthar army, depending on how far they retreated... it's a bit of a mess.

And the pages are caught up in it too! Lorcko, Obyann and Arranulf will be with the royal party and I'd bet that Ambrick will find some excuss to follow them. Not that I'd be upset if he dies. The opposite in fact. But still, whatever way you slice it, a lot of people are going to die soon. whether it's main characters or nameless masses rather depends on Anaxantis ability to move the army now.

Thank you for the chapter - I can not wait for the next one

You say only five or six chapters remain to be written. This has me even MORE worried...

i am so scared for Ehandar. i really do not know what is going to happen.i fear Anax might end up alone at the end.he is too far into revenge .and he needs that revenge for his own mind's sake.
the page are hilarious as also.
but what is wrong with Nulfie? he does not have someone?that's really strange.lol
As far as i am in love with this story and enjoy it,i really want it to end because i want to know how it ended.my heart is on suspend.
really good update.
thx

I think now Lee-Lack should know which side he should be with. After the betrayal of the Mukthars prince, Lee-Lack shouldn't have fully trusted him. I just hope that he'll be able to join forces with Ana ASAP.

I think that everyone saw it coming.. Timi liking Lorcko.. I think those two will make a very good pair.. Just that at the current time, I don't see their relationship developing with all the angst that's happening.. Also, Timi now should tell Ana that he too has a bit of forces with him.. that he wants to help Ana, that he's on his side.. He should tell him the whole truth and who he really is.. though Ana knows that already.. but he needs to let Ana make him join his forces,, Ana will need him really bad.. They are Mukthars after all..

Ehandar is really breaking my heart the more i read about him.. How easy it would be if his imaginations were to come true.. no war, no drama between the two brothers.. only love and warmth... but ofc.. this is not a fluffy story, that I know all too well.. It's just so sad that he has to live like this. But will it be like this till his last breath? WOn't Ana spare him from this misery? Is he even still there somewhere inside of him? I know he is, but he's shut down his mind for the sake of his brother.. I just hope he won't do something stupid while Ana is away.

Which reminds me.. Hemarchidas.. I don't know if I'm right or not, but I think when he wanted to leave Ana's side, that was a false excuse he gave him.. I think he wanted to go on with his plan.. If so, I'm glad that Ana made him stay by his side.. just saying the right words made him stay..

I don't think that ANa is stupid.. well.. not really.. I mean, he should have predicted the moment he knew that Mirkadesh was being attacked that this was a set up.. that the enemy was leading him on.. But I hope there won't be much damage like what happened in Mirkadesh.. I hope that he will be able to save his people.. And to do that.. Timi has to tell him everything and Ana has to let him join.. has to trust him.. he should know by now that wants revenge.. that he won't join forces with the Mukthars even though he is one of them..

All in all.. that was a really interesting chappy honey.. I'm waiting for the next one so very patiently.. And hope to see more of Ehandar.. also, won't we see Rullio or Gorth again? was this the end of them?

Okay... *takes a deep breath* it seems like Timishi should tell Anaxantis about the three hundred Mukthars now. Right now. He needs all the help he can get. I am VERY worried about Lorcko, and will still be worried about Ehandar/Tarno constantly, because it will make it easier when/if (most probably when)something dreadful happens to him. Although I discovered, on explaining my feelings about Ehandar in this chapter, that I don't have words for the heartbreaking compassion and sorrow I feel for him, to the extent that I ended up just sort of gesturing with my hands and squeaking... very embarassing.

I just have to cross my fingers and hope that Anaxantis' father isn't right about him being a total idiot. He doesn't give in to despair, and that's important. He needs to be able to think about what to do. A moment of clarity and I think he'll see an answer. He's adaptable, he won't give in.

Thank you very much for that chapter, and for the map. I had to refer to it about four times in Anaxantis' explanation of what he presumed was the situation. I promise I'm not an idiot, it just takes me a little while to understand a map. But once I get it, I get it. I will be biting my fingernails until the next update... I hope I still have them by the next one lol

He didn't do it, but I'm still angry at him.. It's great to know that war is finally about to start.. it distracted him from his thoughts.. Maybe if he survived this war, he'll see that there;s no point in what he's doing to Ehandar. Maybe he'll see that Ehandar had already suffered enough. But for now, he's save ne? But I guess not for long since the war about to start and Hem is about to kill him. I still hate him, even though he's royal to Ana..

But the smart ass ordered both Rullio and Gorth to be arrested.. I found that so smart.. he knows all to well that once he's gone, they'll try to free him.. but ofc.. he wants Ehandar to be his and only his naked slave.

And now that Rullio is in the castle, surrounded by guards, how will he get out to save his friend? He wants a closer place, and he got one.. but there's no use for it, ne..

I wasn't really surprised when Ana showed the general his place.. now the king should know that nothing will ever stop his son from going to war.. I just hope he'll survive.. just for Ehandar's sake.

I found the part where he hugged Ehandar was emotional.. The way they hugged each other, and said goodbyes.. that was sad.. but glad to know that a little bet of Ehandar, or maybe Ehandar is really still there or he wouldn't be able to say those words to his brother. I wonder what will happen to Ehandar now?

Glad to see that Lorcko is still with Timi and his men.. at least he's away from that prick Ambrick.. But I wonder, is Timi gonna just obey what Ana ordered? I think he wants to speak with Ana immediately b4 war starts. I understand that Ana fears that he might turn against him, but he should know better that what Timi wants is victory for Ana..

The pages were extremely cute and that was a hot scene between the little guys.. they're so drowned in their own world which ofc drives Obi nutssmilies/cheesy.gif.. But they were hilarious as always.. Glad to see Obi in some little action, trying to take care of the pages and all...

Seems that Lee is doubting his loyalty.. which is good since I want him to turn against the enemy.. I have a feeling that he still has a huge role in this war...

And it seems that Ana isn't the only smart leader in this story.. Shigurtish seems smart and vicious too.. I don't like the way he talked about Ana being captured alive and all.. Ofc, he doesn't know that Ana has those pills and won't allow himself to ve captured alive.. I just hope things won't come this far.

Great update honey as always.. Now that the war is coming, this are being more interesting.. I'm waiting so patiently to see how this will end.. and of I'm waiting the next update patiently

I'm glad/worried that Lorcko will still be with 'our' Mukthars in battle. Glad becasue they will protect him and seem to accept him a bit more than the other pages at the moment, worried becasue he will be closer to the actual fighting.
I don't think I've mentioned this but in almost everything I read, my favourite character turns out evil, or dies. Hence, reading that he will be near the front lines of what promises to be a brutal and bloody war, fills me with a sense of impending doom.

Also, that pesky charter is out of the way at last! And Tarngord has been put in his place - speaking to Anaxantis like that, the nerve! I wouldn't have been suprised if one of the clansmen had killed him.

I have a suspicion who the three horses are for now - that's the only thing I can think of that Anaxantis has done in secret since he decided he needed a plan to protect Tarno if he dies.

Shigurtish is a nasty piece of work. It's only a little comforting knowing that Anaxantis has prepared for defeat with suicide pills so that even if the Mukthars win, Shigurtish will not get everything he wants. This mention of revenge is interesting; can't think of anything the Mukthar population would have against Ximerion off the top of my head but I may have forgotten something.

Lastly, inevitably, the Ehandar/Tarno issue. I am so, so grateful Anaxantis reconsidered. I don't think I could have forgiven him (though, you did get me to forgive Ehandar which didn't seem possible at the time either). So, the final decision is postponed once more which is fair enough, it is a very complicated situation and there is no perfect solution. As Anaxantis said, saying you love someone just isn't enough *pointedly ignores previous comment in which she claims just that* no matter how much it might appeal to the inner romantic.
That last bit though... the timeing was flawless. Even as I was thinking 'there is no hope, Ehandar is gone for good, eventually Anaxantis will kill Tarno just to be free of him' there, suddenly, a spark of hope; "This was not Tarno who had spoken", and I'm convinced that somehow, eventually, they will be okay.

It's always lovely to hear Randamor's views on the matter and this was no exception. He seems to respect Anaxantis a great deal and have a deep understanding of the trials he faces. It adds a lot to his character and my liking of him.

I figure I've rambled long enough. Thank you for the chapter and I can't wait for the next one.

This story is very singular and rich at the same time. I've been reading it for 5 days now, nonstop, and I've grown attached to so many characters. I'd say that I am confused about Anaxantis because I hate what he did to Ehandar... But he is a valuable man and he's been raped, that is unforgivable of course. This predicament might cause his fall.

So although numerous dreadful things are certain to happen soon (what else is war?) I'm just so happy Ehandar/Tarno/Other is still whole in body, if not spirit and/or soul. Of course, that does mean I'm now frantically worried about whether Hermachaidas is going to kill him before Anaxantis can decide what to do. And of course, Randamour himself is always a source of wisdom, I should worry about tens of thousands of lives over just one... but isn't that how anybody lives? Disaster is always far away until those you love or you yourself are spiralled into it.

And speaking of which, the pages are back to being my favourites now that Nulfie has proved himself to be the strong-willed and devoted boy I knew he was capable of being. *Huggles him close* so what if I'm fickle?

I still love Lorcko, and the scene between him and Timishi made me smile. I hope he doesn't turn evil, betray his friends, or die.

Oh poor Anaxantis... and poor Ehandar. It's never going to be fixed, Ehandar is broken and Anaxantis still has to keep those wretched oaths. I place a good deal of blame on Emelasuntha for teaching her son in such a strict way without leaving him any loopholes.

I can picture exactly what will happen if Anaxantis does do it. It would set him free to an extent, free him to lead the army and go down in history as a great warlord who captured the planes, extending the country's boundaries right up to the mountians. Easily someone famous enough for Randamor to tell their story years later. But he wouldn't be Anaxantis. After he has won his war and all his plan have come to fruition, who will greet him in his tower? Who will fill the space Ehandar left in his heart, a space we know no Tarno could ever fill? So even though all rational evidence supports him going through with it, I think, overall, Anaxantis won't. Hurting Ehandar further will only add to his own pain.

My gut feeling is that Anaxantis won't do it. I don't know how or why but something will stop him. Hemarchidas killing Ehandar first, Rullio rescueing him, I don't know, maybe even that Mukthar army that just so happens to be launching its' attack, one way or another Ehandar will stay in one piece. Also, I have to agree with many of the other comments - Ehandar has payed enough. The situation has to end but with forgivness and reunion, not mutilation. Yes, it was a terrible, cruel thing that Ehandar did. Anaxantis' wound may never heal, but he should give his brother the chance try and fix it rather than punish him indefinatly, especially when it will only make him feel worse in the long run.

On a happier note, it's wonderful to see Lorcko healing. His situation is looking really hopeful at the moment so, naturally, I am filled with terror for him. When was the last time things looked this good for him? Oh yes, that's right, just before Ambrick publically humiliated him and broke his heart. Still, at least he's recovering and learning a bit more about what kind of person he really is too.

Anaxantis has inherited more from his fathers side than he seems to realise. He and Berimar are very similar. I'm sure he would have acted in a similar way is the woman asked him for justice. Is it bad that I warmed considerably to the tortourer as he told the story? As far as I can see, of all the characters who have employed the use of torture so far, he has the most morally sensitive approach to it.

I did have more to say when I was reading it but it was such an interesting chapter, jampacked with stuff and my brain can only hold so many ideas at once, I'm afraid that's all I remember. Can't wait for the next part

Ha! I knew it was Tomar! (of course, I might have said that no matter who it was - but I am going to claim that by leaping to the conclusion it had to be him in my last comment, I knew it was him) At least he is still loyal to Anaxantis and Anaxantis didn't punish him. It must be horrible believing all those things in his brother/sons letters.

I'm not sure what I think about the brother/son (can't remember his name...) living in a nice room with good food and seemingly not trying to tell Tomar that he's safe. You think with that many of the brilliant accountants' genes, he would be able to devise some kind of code Tomar would understand. Tomar would still have to give the King information, but he wouldn't be kept awake at night worrying weather or not his son still has nine fingers.

I don't trust Lee-Lack at all, there is something just a little bit (dare I say it?) Damydas-ish about the way he's stalking Anaxantis' sentry men. Though he seems far less evil and I think he's more likely to know when it's time to get out and look after his own skin than the good baron was. I also get the sense that if he thinks there is something bigger going on, there is something bigger going on. So now I'm wondering about that too...
You just keep piling on mysteries, as soon as one is solved two more appear. Looking forwards to the next chapter

finally, the king's informer is known. it's been so long but they did do a thorough job of investigating everyone of ana's inner circle. i was not expecting it to be tomar but what's more surprising is that his supposed brother that was captured was also his son. i guess he really had no choice but to agree to be the king's spy.

Well that was an interesting chapter.really instrustinf and Anax still smart.
can't wait for the next one.i am happy to know that i was right about the story Radomanesh told Anx.it happened to them not his grand pa.lol,i was so sure Anax will put the pieces together.
thx again,take care

He should just kill him or let him go. This is stupid. You can't take your morals from a man who tortures people every day, and ultimately it's just pathetic for him to torture Ehandar like this. I'm kind of hoping Ehandar will kill Anaxantis if he goes through with this, since he will make himself far, far less than a human being. I don't care about 'unforgivable acts,' how are things resolved if you kill the ones you love? I hope I don't throw up on the keyboard if he does it. I'm kind of hoping Anaxantis get killed or something before he can do this. Better off dead than becoming what such an act would make him.

Not Nulfie too? Greed makes so many of your villains, and Obie's only popular cos they feel safe knowing he's not attracted to them. I hope Arranulf isn't going to become as dark and twisted as Ambrick, he seemed to be good at heart; the way he pleaded for him mother and sacrificed so much. He seemed fundamentally good, and he and Hermachaidas maybe still have a chance if he doesn't throw it all away on greed.

Lorcko is awesome, and I love the doctor too. I hope that talk showed him something about himself. Anaxantis could always use another 300 soldiers, especially Mukthars. I hope Timishi says something, Rodo will hopefully convince him. Shirmy is adorable, I adore him, I hope maybe something can happen with him and Lorcko when eventually he comes to believe in things again. Things look brighter for him, so long as he isn't killed in the invasion.

I wonder what Lee-Lack left Anaxantis? Time will tell I suppose? Poor man, the guy who tortured him is a total psycho... but then similar methods are probably common on both sides at the end of the day. Just because Anaxantis saved Gorth, doesn't mean he's not got a man torturing people in his basement.

The big thing that bugs me at the moment is the situation with Ehandar. As it stands now, I think Anaxantis has gone far beyond what Ehandar did to him, and it's made worse by the fact that Ehandar genuinely regretted it immediately after. I'm not sure if this is intentional, but we're sort of given the impression by Anaxantis that Ehandar, or the "dark Ehandar" is some kind of irredeemable monster and what he did to him is essentially "unforgivable", as the chapter mentions. Of course, I'm not excusing the rape. Ehandar did deserve punishment for that, and I believe he has received that a thousand times over. Not only is Anaxantis punishing him, but he's completely stripping away his entire humanity.
Ehandar was entirely willing to do anything to make Anaxantis forgive him, yet at this point I think it's Anaxantis who needs to start seeking forgiveness. Frankly, right now, I really don't care what he's done to Anaxantis, and at the moment I have no sympathy for anything Ana says or does. I find it extremely difficult to see him as the hero as this story, and one who's supposed to be a good character at that, when he's really no better than Damydas was when it comes to Ehandar.
Of course, this is just my long-winded opinion, but I truly believe that Ehandar's been through enough and deserves redemption, and preferrably not through castration, or other more wince-inducing methods you seem to be fond of. I've been rooting for Ehandar for quite a while now and I would be really heart-broken if he doesn't get out of this alive or unmaimed. And I'll probably lose what little respect I still have for Anaxantis. Like I said, as it stands, I really think that Anaxantis has already done far worse than Ehandar has ever done to him, and if he really does go through with Berimar's (spelling?) punishment, he really will be no better than Damydas in my eyes and forever irredeemable.

That aside, I'm still loving the story and I'm really curious to what will eventually happen when the Mirkthars (spelling, again) finally decide to make their move. I hope my above rant doesn't seem to off-putting, I just really hate the situation Ehandar is in (and Anaxantis, at the moment) and thought I should make my opinion known.

Wow I feel like my head is full of straw! So we found the trai- informant, so now Anaxantis no longer has to worry. Did Emelesuntha tell him that the son was apparently in no danger? And does the son know he's not Tomar's brother? Well, as Anaxantis pointed out, at least he's not the only one with a bizzare family.

Other information includes the relationship between the Mukthars and their apparently distant relatives. I'd suspected something like that. And I'd already guessed about Timishi and the 'parting' when I first heard the story. I wasn't exactly sure if it was his generation or maybe their parents, but the level of detail and their actions against Damydas made it clear they were part of that 'cut out' party. I'm also pretty sure Timishi deliberately got caught though...

Nonetheless, I love those moments when you come to see all the little details laid out and explained and you kick yourself over the things you've missed. It was also lovely how much Hemarchidas cared, and how the two of them were with each other. And frankly, if I were him I'd probably think that killing Ehandar/Tarno would help him. I mean, I won't forgive him if he does - obviously - but I will understand (as much as you can when you've never been in a situation remotely like that in your life) why he did it.

All of this on top of my newly acquired ability - after many, many years - to understand my calculator, means that today has been highly educational. Made especially rewarding by your wonderful update. The pieces of the puzzle aren't in place yet, but I think we've got the corners.

Lovely Lorcko; is there anyone he can't win over? (except the obvious...) Shermy was utterly defensless to his charm and you can't blame him. I'm so happy Lorcko is getting along better now and that he is (maybe) making some new friends.

I know Hemarchidas means well but Ehandar is Anaxantis' problem. He is responsible and the decision to act is his alone. Plus, as all I now feel for Ehandar/Tarno is compassion, I can't picture the tale ending without some kind of redemtion for him, which cannot happen if he is dead. Therfore Hemarchidas must fail.
My pet theory is that Rullio and Gorth will team up and interviene at a critical moment, either saving Ehandar at the last minute or rescuing him before Hemarchidas can get there.
On the other hand, the number of hints dropped in this chapter that Ehandar is broken and gone forever does worry me. I get the feeling you're preparing us for something... something other than a swashbuckling rescue and painful but ultimatly complete mental recovery.

Thank you very much for the chapter

glad to know the queen is safe. at least she is still looking for the traitor since i've totally given up on guessing who it is. i'll just thank her when she discovers whoever it is. glad to know that ana really regrets breaking tarno. i just hope he can fix him. and hemm!! don't even think about it or its gonna be a public flogging for you.

lorcko has really integrated himself with the mukthars. at least they eases his loneliness a bit. and i think highly of him now especially with his attitude change. good thing he has toughened up to take head on any problems. and looks like he made new friends. i just hope this time he will find true friends, not some sick backstabbing jerks.
thanks for another wonderful update~>

I was going to write a proper comment. Really, I was. Until Hemarchidas said that. Now I'm just going to curse his unborn children until the drive wears out.

I am going to flog him to death if he touches Ehandar.

Now, now, I was kidding, I'm just in a bit of hurry. But the flogging still stands.
Love, love, love this story- It just gets better and better. Will be looking forward to next chapter, and thank you so much for this one, and for being such an amazing writer.

Poor Lorcko. All through the mravinshinohr I was fidgeting in this very "oh no please don't" way, but I'm glad it wasn't so bad in the end. Now I kind of like Timishi. I loved it that he took an interest in Lorcko's tears. About Ambrick, I would wring his neck. With pleasure. I mean, how could he? Agree to rape? That's just... sick. I'm so glad Lorcko handled it well, he even got me all puffy-chested. And again, the prince was great.

About Obyann's, err, misunderstanding, I'll have a hard time finding something funnier. It was just awesome, I nearly fell off my chair.

And at last, Ehandar. I feel so much for him. I don't even know what to say, except that I'm so sad he's this broken. What is Anaxantis thinking? Why doesn't he fix things? It's odd, the way he suffers so much when all he wants is to ensure he'll never suffer against at his brother's demons' hands. Please, the angst is killing me...

Thank you so much for the updates. Saying I love them is getting old, but its nevertheless true and never excessive. You have a brilliant future, you know? I'll stay very, very tuned for the next one.

I totally forgot about Iftang, but now that you mentioned him and made us learn some info about him and his lover who pays his debts.. then maybe he really isn't the traitor?? Maybe it's Tomar? Or maybe Marack?.. This I guess will remain a mystery for sometimes, ne.. But I'm wondering, what the queen will do whenever she finds out whoever that traitor was?

Now that the two generals are in their posts, I wonder how long they'll have to wait till the enemy appears to their sight? And why do I think that Dtain made a mistake by allowing his men to cook? How can he be sure that it was totally save?? Then again, I guess we'll know if that will really affect his mission soon or not, ne..

Ana can really act like a little brat at times.. It was hilarious when he was trying his outfit.. For a second I said that he was cute (I'm still angry at him, please take a not of that).. but still, he can be really funny at times.. but yeah.. Hem is right.. Ana should consider the man's hard work and be grateful, and not t be a stubborn because he's gonna need that armor IF he wants to stay alive.. I actually felt bad for him that he cried.. but then again, you brought this to yourself Ana.. you have gone too far..

And Hem.. He really wanna kill Ehandar? Yeah I know he just wanna help Ana.. but not like this Hem.. I'll start to really hate you.. And Ana.. he should see through Hem.. he should figure out or at lease sense smth.. he can't just let Hem kills his Ehandar.. It seems the easier solution for now, and somehow, I guess Ehandar won't resist thinking that it was Ana's order.. then again.. He still has to tell Ana what he is hiding inside of him..

I found the way Lorcko took Shermy's (who is extremely cute btw) dagger rather sly.. And now he's almost one of them, talking, grinning, smirking and even eating like them.. Maybe he should have be born as onesmilies/tongue.gif.. but I'm glad that he's safe for now.. and Now that he found a new friend, Eynurm.. maybe I should ask what is Eynurm's ulterior motives of approaching Lorcko?? Or maybe it's just an innocent friendship.. with you, no one could tell cuz you never ceased to surprise me Eury..

lorcko is so cute.he s funny.

for Anax i really do not know anymore,but herma better stay out of the problem.thinking of killing Ehandar,maybe that when Ehandar will come out of his fog.

i really enjoyed myself with Varsia.she was so funny drunk.

thanks for the update,u are really good.

Huh. Somehow, everyone loves Tarno now. Oh well, allow me to be the thorn in your eyes. Their relationship has gone awry and I am of the opinion that anything is better, including sending Tarno off to the Royal Farms, than this stagnant situation and lack of development in their relationship. Tarno should have shown himself prepared to suffer the Royal Farms if it pleases his 'master.' Since Anaxantis doesn't really want to send him off anyway, the next moves will be pretty interesting. As it is, Tarno bores me.

Lorcko. Ah, yes, Lorcko. Quite admirable, he is. I never expected him to be actually made of tougher material. But I'm glad he is. I'm also glad that Timishi did not interfere. Otherwise, the pages would have insulted him all the more. But showing his skills like that earned him respect, and not the label of a dog of the Mukthars.

Obyann is still the funniest guy around. Although of course he doesn't mean to be. Which just makes it funnier.

Seems the Queen will have to retreat. Interesting discovery about the possible spy though. But then, what would the King's spy do? The King is now on Anaxantis' side, more or less. I also do not understand why the Black Shield is still after the Queen since they now both wanted Anaxantis' safety. I'm just glad the Bloody Baron is already dead. Ah, that brings back sweet memories. I still think he lacks torture though. Oh well.
I don't think it's Parmingh though. I think he was just acting on the orders of Anaxantis to look for weakness among the ranks.

Lack of action, but definitely very interesting chapters. I cannot now imagine what the confrontation will be like and how it is going to be.

Haven't read this in a long time... I finally had the time to read all those updates I missed. This story has gotten so complex and fantastic.

I really love Lorcko now. I was beginning to like him when he started to wait for Ambrick to reciprocate his feelings. He actually made an effort to change himself and, for that, I thought he was a little admirable. However, I didn't particularly like him. Once he stood up to his father, I liked him. When he ignored the taunts and jeers from the other pages after what Ambrick did, I started to love him. And with this latest stunt, I totally fell in love. He's not just a pretty face and whore. Ambrick, on the other hand, is vengeful and nasty. When he actually got his little buddies to try maiming Lorcko he became a monster in my mind. He's incredibly selfish, too. Anyway, I can't wait to see what relationships develop between Lorcko and the Mukthars. It should be interesting.

I don't know what to think about Anaxantis and Ehandar (I refuse to call him Tarno...>_>). Anaxantis realizes that, so long as Ehandar remains with him, he's going to retain that sadistic and cruel side of him that he obviously doesn't like. So, then, what's his plan for Ehandar? Sending him to to the Royal Farms seems barbaric at this point. When it comes to Ehandar, though, Anaxantis is capable of any form of cruelty. I'm not totally and completely convinced that Ehandar is lost, though. There may yet be hope (however futile). I'm still waiting for Gorth and Rullio to meet. I want to see their reactions when they encounter their former prince's current condition.

Can't wait to read more!

Dear Eury,

it's the first comment I leave on your site, so let me say hello to begin with.

I discovered your site and your story about 5 days ago and I must admit that within those 5 days I read all 41 chapters you uploaded so far.... (I actually do have a life outside of the internet, but your story managed to make me forget that for a while... XD)

One of the main reasons why I really got to like your story is that one can tell you thought throughoutly about your plot. I've read a lot of stories set in a Medieval time, but mostly you can tell the author's plot is pretty thin and limited to give a setting for smut.

It's the first time I've seen an author think about such things as the trouble of raising funds for troops and such.
Also I liked that the fact that your characters can't be distinguished as standing on the good or bad side, but everybody has their own reason for acting the way they do.

I must admit that the huge number of characters is difficult to remember at first, but I soon picked my favourites among them and enjoyed seeing how everybody interacted.

I'll be glad to follow your story from now on and hope you keep going!

no~
poor tarno, he's given so much yet he looses part of himself. i really do pity him, loving so much and yet his love being tested. ok maybe now i do hope he will be rescued, he's becoming more and more patethic. but alas, he chose that himself, or was driven to.i just hope ana can either love him back or set him free.

lorcko and timishi seems o have really good chemistry. glad to know that at least timishi was there when lorcko was attacked. and i'm glad that lorcko was able to beat his attackers easily.

oby is becoming more and more of a goofball. sometimes his always jumping the gun and always wrong conclusions and misunderstandings is always funny. but i do hope sometimes he can get the upperhand on his barrackmates as he always end up on the receiving end of jokes.

as always, another great update and i'm always looking forward to your stories~

He's gone too far. Ehandar's broken. It will be even more painful to bring him back now than it would be to leave him. How could Anaxantis do that? I was so sure, when Tarno told him about his corner, that Anaxantis would let him keep it, let him keep his hope. Becasue that would be his backdoor for bringing Ehandar back. And I knew he had failed the test when he couldn't think of a reason; all he had to do was say 'because I love you' but he's lost too much of himself to even say that.

Still, there's always Lorcko and, wow, did he show them. I was so worried about who was going to rescue him it sort of slipped my mind that he could rescue himself. Watching him reduce his would-be-attacker to a terrified heap on the floor gave me that warm, proud feeling you get when a character you've been rooting for prooves you right. I doubt Timishi could have complemented him more highly; almost a Mukthar, he must like Lorcko. It's wonderful that they are getting along but I'm worried Ambrick is going to spread rumours saying that Lorcko is fraternising with the enemy although it's common knowledge that Anaxantis has been doing just that. I just can't see Ambrick giving up that easily.

Which leaves Obyann. Poor guy, doesn't stand a chance with those little perverts running around. There he was trying to give some practical, friendly advice and ended up declaring his participation in orgies. At least Arranulf knows how to make light of the situation. Ah, endless amusement...

Thank you for the brilliant update, plenty of emotion balanced with some good ol humour

I don't know what to say, this relationship between A and tarno... It's hard for me to understand because it's so foreign to me, but you did a good job of portraying it. it's quite fascinating.

Well, on Lorcko's situation, I'm glad I didn't have to hit something (and glad there was up an update so quickly!), what a way to handle himself- good on Timishi for helping him out. Seems like Ambrick and goons are the real barbarians here. I don't feel like wishing them a painful death because that would be stooping to their level but gosh, I hope karma is a bitch.

On Ehandar and Ana/ Tarno and Ana. Well Ana should know better than that. He set up him to fail and expected Tarno to overcome that against all odds? He also set himself up to be disappointed against all odds, almost like he's looking for an excuse not to put Ehandar back together because he would be the one needing to be forgiven. He spent so much effort degrading and demeaning Ehandar and he wants it all back in a second? That isn't how you go about rebuilding relationships,especially one as twisted as theirs. Could Ana have survived the same treatment?

Lorcko, you've no idea how much I admired and loved him even more in this update. The way he stood up for himself and didn't give in to them, he was actually brave especially that he was unarmed. I was smirking and grinning the whole time when he humiliated Loduvant and showed him his place, even grinned more when the other two ran away.. Seriously, for a second they thought they could take him down and the moment he took one of them down, they just ran away.. That just proves that they're fcking cowards.. And Ambrick.. that prick.. I hope he'll suffer for the rest of his life.. maybe facing the same fate as Lorcko, only I hope it wil be done to him.. Can't imagine I ever felt sorry for him.. He should just die one thousands death per day.

And Timishi, he's still my hero (well, Lorcko's hero in this case), but still my hero. He was actually so kind and sweet that he took Lorcko with him because he knew that those dickheads will attack him again. I kinda want them to be together, though it might be awkward.. just can't imagine Timishi being sweet
and nice and all that stuff.. But at least, I think Lorcko is safer when he's with Timi who happened to be the enemy.

Poor Obi, as much as I laughed so much at what he was saying.. I felt bad for both him and Ryhunzo.. Obi, I think he is actually kind in his own way, even if he can't behave himself most of the time and acts like a brat at other times... and can be really stupid like this time. that maybe should teach him not to stick his nose in someone else's business. Hope he'll make it in time and make it up to the little guy.

Ana, I really think he went too damn far in this update.. But again, I still remember his words 'Drop by drop Ehandar'.. taking away his name, his title, his dignity, his clothes, giving him a name of an animal and then, he takes the last thing that was left for him.. his hope.. that was beyond cruelty.. Exactly.. what did he expect him to do?? At some point I was like: oh yeah, he wants Ehandar to say what he feels and what he hides inside of him..and then I was like: great, now he took his hope away and there was nothing left of him.. If he himself is confused about the situation, about how he should deal with Ehandar.. then how am I suppose to think about both of them?? But what is left to do now? He took away everything from Ehandar.. he broke him mentally forever.. I guess, maybe I should expect physical pain at any moment now.. And Ehandar, he really has become so pitiful.. Really.. did he think: yeah right.. why should I be ashamed of showing my hole and dick.. I'm no better than the other animals.. So you really accepted that for ever?? Weren't you supposed to tell Ana's your feelings and everything you've kept inside?? ofc.. he would have sent you away... Still, I feel bad for Ehandar.. he really loves Ana that he gave up everything for him.. And Ana is really an asshole.. I just hope that someone will rescue Ehandar... whether it's Ana himself or Gorth..

So essentially: Tarno loves Anaxantis enough that he is content to destroy himself for his brother's benefit. *sobs pitifully* I knew he was failing the test though, even as it happened. I think essentially that it was Anaxantis who failed greatest of all though... because in trying to determine whether Ehandar still existed, he caused that tenuous, fragile existance to dissappear. Love is an act of faith, it cannot be tested. Anaxantis deliberately punished himself with such a test.

I hope Gorth rescues Tarno, because Anaxantis can only destroy him - he has no faith in his brother, because of the trust that was already destroyed between them. But I consider both Ehandar and Tarno to be absolved, and I want him set free. Maybe Rullio will help?

Lorcko is alive! Alive and sane and (however temporarily) safe! Praise the lord! Timishi didn't do anything, but I like to think he could have... On the plus side, I'm glad so few of your characters are pathetic enough to have joined an army and yet not learned to fight. You'd kind of have to be a complete idiot (or locked in a tower room in almost total isolation with a brother who deliberately tortures you as a punishment to himself for torturing you still because of his mistrust.)

Nonetheless, Obie Wobie and co still succeeded in bringing a smile to my face. I love them all so very much *huggles them all to her* I fully intend to turn into a crazy cat lady the second any of them is harmed.

am i the only one ehandar failed Anaxantis's test? i can't stand what's happening to him, but that was the wrong way to make a comeback--if ever.

also, i love the irony of ana being unable to access a man standing right before him.

All I can say is: I hope things between Ana and Ehandar work out...

And if anything happens to Lorcko I think I might hit something. How is Timshi and him suddenly my favourite characters?

Anyway, I am looking forward to more!

I'm so sorry I missed an update! Real life picks the most inconvenient times to intrude.
I am so angry at Ambrick. How could he do that to Lorcko? He might be burning with envy but it was plain cruel to hurt Lorcko like that. Lorcko truly cared for Ambrick and now he's going to regret opening his heart in the first place and never risk getting hurt again! (As you can see, I am very indignant on my favourite character's behalf.) It's nice to see his father acting a bit more, well, like a father. Lorcko may not respect him but at least he's not completely alone.

And challenging Timishi to the mravinshinohr!? I actually yelled something along the lines of "Oh my god, no way!" when I read that. I'm about 80% sure Lorcko will lose but that Timishi will take pity and be kind to him but, then again, how often do you see a Mukthar taking pity on anyone? It's equally likely Timishi will be as brutal as he threatens to be and Lorcko will continue down his spiral of self doubt and angst.
Alternatively, if Lorcko wins it will be a good way to release some stress. Either way, I'm really looking forward to seeing how it plays out.

Nice to see Rullio's still getting along with the locals. I can see him becoming a bit of an problem for Anaxantis if he pursues the Ehandar issue. Somehow I don't think he'll let the matter drop.

Lots of things to think about in this chapter... my theories will need some tweaking. As aways, a pleasure to read and I look forward to the next installment.

thanks for the update~
glad to know that ana is not thinking of dying anymore if thins end up for the worst. also, i wonder how he will resolve about the thieving town.

lorcko was really heart broken with and i feel sorry for him. on top of being humiliated by his love, everyone seems to be alienating him. even his effort to change was wasted. but i wanna know how things go on after his night with the mukthar prince.

Based on the 'Ambrick is NOT a nice person' comment, I wonder how he'll take it if Lorcko loses the mravinshinohr (I had to copy and paste that). The only reason he accepted was his anger at being rejected by Anaxantis, so it's already off to a bad start. My money's on Timishi - we've seen the Mukthars fight before, and of course he won't be caught off guard this time.

I'm glad Anaxantis has a back-up plan, and I'm assuming his reluctance to leave has something to do with a certain 'dog.' Lot's of tactical revelations about Mirkadesh, as well. The map on your website was very helpful, but even so I'm counting on you to remind me of anything important.

Rullio is going to have a tough time rescuing Ehandar, particularly as he no longer wishes to be rescued. And of course Anaxantis will feel betrayed if he runs away...

Oh Gods, what a mess

I think that sums up that situation effectively.

So Anaxantis's got his escape route set up. Very well. But three horses?

And oh, you got me with the spanking, you did. I went from 'no, he wouldn't' to 'yes he did!'. It was so good, I was writhing on my chair. I wonder just what Anaxantis realized. And way to go, Lorcko! I'm so proud of the way he stood up to his father. He really doesn't deserve what Ambrick did to him. Oh, poor Timishi, getting shot down like that. I can't wait to know how the mravinshinohr will go. Is Lorcko in deep trouble? That big mouth of his, seriously...

Thank you so much for the update! Waking up on a Sunday is so much better if there's one of your updates to catch up to. Am looking forward to the next one!

HMMMMM....Who is that blond stranger? Could Ana even get away unnoticed long enough to go make the deal?
Ana has sent his men out to spot the intruders. If showing up is half the battle, then he is half way to winning.

Lorcko is now in the soup for sure, but he has also probably put Ana in there with him. Ana will not be pleased when he finds out. Could a loss by Lorcko force Ana now to support Timishi?

It seems Ana needs to get a decision on Ehander so he can get a resolution on Timi and so many other issues. If he doesn't act soon, something may just force his hand.
As usual, more twists and turns than a steep mountain road. It is so fascinating to watch this unfold.

Ana is sure thinking for the near and far future now that the war is so near.. But was he really planning for his escape? Well, I still remember the poison the doctor gave him in case he got caught, but still here he goes, making another plan to escape if things came to downfall. But, okay, if that was really Ana, and if he's planning for his escape.. to whom the other two horses belong? Or he doesn't even own a horse, and those three horses belong to ........... & ............ &................ Okay.. I'll stop thinking about it before making a stupid out of myself more than this. But at some point, I started to doubt that it was really Ana..

But finally, we learned more about the preparations of the war and his tactics and strategy for every move. He's doing a great job for a young prince, a war-lord he's actually near perfect. And yeah, he reminds me of his mother a lot in this update, especially when he was commanding the new captains. I don't know, but I think one of these two will die (stopped having hopes ) And, did he mean what I think he meant when he said that the Mirkadesh never attacked by the Mukthars? I mean, they have some kind of a deal with each other? If that is true, Then I guess this will be a problem..

Rullio, sweet and hilarious as ever. The punishing scene.. hm... you know what I'm gonna say.. I liked it a loooooot.. But now that he's in Lorseth, And Ehandar is there as well, only a naked prisoner in the tower. What he intends to do to reach to him? That's if he could ever come near him. I don't think that Ana will give him the chance to come near Ehandar.. HIS Ehandar.. And why didn't the king let him know at some point of his new title? And when/if he knows.. what powers will he have in hand that might help him finding Ehandar?? /yeah again stupid questions.. I know.. can't help it..

Lee-Lack Scarminckle.. I remember when Marak saw someone and he couldn't identify who it was, but I said that you put that man for some reason.. And I guess it has something to do with why Mirkadesh never been attacked by the enemy.. might be stupid conclusion.. but it's just came to my mind..

Timishi seems desperate for a second round.. I'm glad that Ana rejected his offer. But, what does àjemisha mean? I have few guesses in my head already, but I will wait for the answer in the next updates.

Lorcko, stupid idiot Lorcko.. what have you done? You have just signed your own death warrant. Don't you know that you insulted a prince and there's a horrible punishment to that? If he came out alive from Timishi's chamber after what the prince punishing him, I guess he'll have to face another punishment.. that's IF he was still alive. Stupid stupid stupid Lorcko.. But could I blame him? Actually, not really. Everyone is talking about him, looking down on him after admiring and fearing him. The one he loved, treated him like nothing but a ***** and humiliated him in front of everyone. And Timishi rejecting him was the last strew.. he just snapped.. I understand all of that. But what did he think he could accomplish? Did he think he would win? What is he gonna gain when being.... hm.. okay.. I'll shut up for now.. But really, I'm angry at Ambric.. it's all that assholes fault.. But one thing I loved about Lorcko in this update, he finally showed his father that what he was doing was wrong. I loved how he snapped at his old man and well.. showed him his place.. But now, It's Lorcko who is gonna be shown his place /shakes her head sadly.

Loved the update sweetie.. I can see that the real drama is beginning.. the war is about to happen.. and I don't even wanna think about what might happen to Ehandar and Lorcko..

which remind me of something wanted to say before. It's so strange, yet so clever from you to make us all have change how we feel from a character to another. I mean, look at Ehandar, look at how we all hated him and wished him to die.. and now we love him and we wish mercy for him.. And then, there's Lorcko, who was an arrogant young man who thinks he can get whatever he wants whenever he wants, some of us didn't like him at first.. but he changed a lot.. tried to make amends and even signed his downfall by himself when he fell in love.. And now Ambrick whom I felt sorry for at the beginning but now I now that he's nothing but a dick who treats people like trash and everyone now hates him.. It just amazes me the change of the characters.. the way they make me feel for them.. love them after hating them.. and now I'm afraid for both of them.

Great update sweetie and sorry for being eh... talking much. I'll be waiting so very patiently for the next update.

But hey, is he really over Anaxantis now? Since he was cool about it, didn't show any signs of sadness, or even any sad thoughts. But if he is, does that mean Arranulf has a chance now? Hm.. thinking about that again.. no.. he doesn't have a chance.

And why does it have to be a second round and that Timishi must win this time? Why does he want to bind Ana to him? How will that serve him? I'm having many thoughts about this, but Id rather wait and see.

But at least Rodomesh confessed his mistake to Ana, and smart Ana took this situation to his advantage and made Rodomesh tell him about the Cutting out. But he seemed to be very careful about what he was telling Ana (And the whole cutting out was very cruel btw). What didn't he tell him? And more importantly, why do they tell Anaxantis about their culture to begin with? Let them know not everything yeah, but still some info that can't be ignored. What's the purpose of that?

Anaxantis seems really torn to what he should do about his Ehandar. He wants to forgive and forget, but it's not that easy. Ofc it's not. You can't just forgive the one who humiliated and raped you that easily. But at least he finally admitted that this can't go on any longer, Ehandar is really broken, worse than broken actually.

Ambrick.. One minute I felt sorry for him for being so confused and torn about what he should do with Lorcko. But now thanks to his dick-head friends, he came up with a horrible solution. How could he even say that out loud to Lorcko in front of everyone with a smile on his face? Or was it just an act to see Lorcko's reaction? Whether it was act or not, Lorcko didn't deserve that. Yeah I didn't like the guy at first, but now I feel for him. He didn't deserve such harshness and I keep thinking that after that incident, I'm afraid Lorcko might go berserk, fucking anyone who's in front of him, or returning to his old-self.

All in all.. I loved this chappy a lot with all the mixed feelings and the sad moments.

I wonder what it is Rodomesh did not tell Anaxantis?