"It's only proper that the Lord of House Duron carry the Imperial Colors into battle. It is our sacred duty."

The tone of Gallus Duron's voice was one of absolute truth, as if his words were etched into stone tablets and had never been contradicted. That wasn't the case of course, but Hexen didn't see the point of correcting him with facts about ancient history.

"I understand that father." He chose to say instead. "But tradition aside, the danger of the situation is self-evident. No one knows what truly lies beyond the Gate. Surely the Emperor can see that an attack of this magnitude is a great risk."

"Mind your tongue boy." Gallus admonished him, looking around to make sure there was no one in earshot. The Imperial Palace was a vast and magnificent building that brought together the greatest of architects and materials from all over the vast realm to aid in its construction, truly the jewel in the Imperial crown. But it was often frequented by the ambitious, power hungry nobles and shrewd senators bringing business of one kind or another to the Emperor and his primary Lieutenants. Hexen didn't think anything he said was particularly disloyal or could otherwise be twisted as such, but apparently his father didn't want to take any chances. "Of course the Emperor can see the risks involved, but it was agreed that we cannot allow such a golden opportunity for territory and wealth past the Gate is simply too important to pass. A blunt strike while we have the element of surprise is the best way to crush the lands beyond before they even know what's happening is the best chance to bring about a swift victory."

"I suppose that makes sense." Hexen conceded. It was a strategy that fit comfortably with the Duron way of war. Every knight trained under their tutelage, either for the house itself or for other Imperial nobility, were taught the same tactics of battle. Strike hard, strike fast, and leave no hesitation for mercy. It had been a doctrine that had been perfected over centuries of trial and error. There was no reason to begin doubting it now. "But having both you and Edmund going on the expedition makes me worry."

"You're beginning to sound like your mother." Gallus replied, the harshness in his tone replaced with a growing smile. "She always would let worry consume her before I went to battle."

"I'm not consumed with worry." Hexen protested. "It's just...I don't know."

"Don't let it bother you My Lord. I'm certain the boy will be able to distract himself with the excitement of keeping track of proper tax revenues and levy rosters."

Hexen blinked, seeing a large man with greying dark hair standing before them, the right sleeve of his garment tied off to prevent it from hanging loosely. Beside him, sitting in a comfortable looking chair, Hexen's brother Edmund sipped at a cup of tea that smelled of exotic spices. Like their father, Edmund was dressed in the padded clothing typically worn under armor. It took Hexen a moment to realize that they were in the bedroom his father and brother had been given as honorary guests of the Emperor, having been too lost in the conversation as well as his own thoughts to see where he was being guided.

"Yes, truly it shall be the most exciting period of my life thus far." He said dryly, trying to use the humor to cover up his momentary surprise. He should have been more aware of his surroundings and situation. A knight, especially one of his bloodline, always had to be alert. No less in the cutthroat world of Imperial politics then on the battlefield.

"I would not joke so lightly." Gallus cautioned. "Do not forget that we are taking a large part of our army with us. You should still have plenty of soldiers and militia to deal with any odd groups of bandits or daring gaggles of orcs, but be cautious, nonetheless. Some may see this as an opportunity to plunder our lands."

"I think Hexen can deal with whatever happens." Edmund chimed in, smirking over at them. "He can lead the militia into battle himself if need be. Finally put into practice his unique style of frantic flailing with his sword to confuse his opponents. Emperor knows he's had plenty of practice."

"We need our hobbies brother." Hexen answered, looking back his way. "Like fleeing from a castle for dear life after being caught in bed with a Senator's daughter."

That brought a laugh out of Edmund, and a raised brow from their father.

"Dare I ask what he is talking about?"

"Nothing to concern yourself with father." Edmund replied, trying without much success to recompose himself. "Simply some...extra training on the side."

"Perhaps it's fortunate you're bringing young Edmund with you after all old friend." The one-armed man, chuckling with good humor. "Allows any angry nobles time to forget any transgressions that may or may not have occurred."

"Perhaps." Gallus grunted. "Do try to make sure Hexen doesn't do anything similarly foolish, will you Myron? I would prefer to come back to find both my sons are still living."

"It gladdens me that after nearly two decades of entrusting me to educate your heirs that you now find me worthy of ensuring their carnal desires do not cost them their life." Myron said.

All four men laughed at that, followed by an uncomfortable silence that seemed to loom over each of them in a unique way. For a moment, Hexen wondered what was going through his father's mind. What did he think about on the eve of battle? Was there ever any fear of death? Or had he left that behind him long ago in wars won before he had even been old enough to speak?

As usual, it was Edmund who broke the silence. He set the now empty teacup back on the small table that was in front of the chair, rising to his feet.

"We should go now, father. The soldiers should have finished their preparations by now."

"You are likely correct." Gallus agreed. He turned to face Hexen, his expression serious, but soft. "I know this might seem a frightening challenge right now, but I am certain you are more than equal to the task. With luck, this campaign with be a swift one, but regardless of its length you will be acting as Lord until our return. Remember to keep your wits about you, and you will do fine."

"I'll try to make you proud father." Hexen promised.

"You already have my boy." His father said, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Next time I ride out to battle, you will be by my side. This I swear."

"None will be able to stand against us when that day comes."

"That's what I like to hear." Gallus said, withdrawing his hand and turning to go as Edmund stepped forward to depart as well.

"Try not to win too many battles without me." Hexen called to his brother. "They'll be no living with you if the Senate gives another Triumph in your name."

"We'll just have to find you a proper enemy to fight when I get back!" Edmund called over his shoulder as they walked away. "Along with a maiden to bed."

"Edmund!"

"Coming father!"

Edmund broke into a run, disappearing around the corner and leaving Hexen alone with Myron. His gaze lingered on the spot his father and elder brother had been just a moment before, listening to the sounds of their fading footsteps as they went out to join with the rest of the army. Then, silence.

Suddenly, he was Lord Duron. Even if it was only until they returned home. Hexen felt the reality of the situation settle on his shoulders as if a griffin had decided to land upon them, along with a sudden queasiness that slithered its way into his stomach. He tried to shake it off. Self-doubt would not help anyone, least of all him, in this time. Keeping a level head would be essential.

"Wishing you were going with them?" Myron's voice entered his internal struggle, snapping him back to reality.

"I'd be lying if I said I didn't." Hexen admitted. "I'd rather be fighting the enemies of the Empire with a sword in my hand rather than battling internal trade disputes with a quill, but I also worry for them. The Gate is a mystery of which there are no answers save for that of legend. Not the most reliable of sources under the best of circumstances."

"Such concerns show wisdom." Myron nodded. "I wish your brother would share in your caution every once in a while, rather than show an eagerness for bloodshed as often as he does."

"You're trying to change the subject."

"Not at all. In truth I too hold some worry, but I believe we can set it aside with good reason. Edmund is one of the finest knights I've ever trained and a skilled tactician to boot. And I've seen the talents of your father firsthand on the fields of war. This isn't their first campaign, and personally I doubt that even the might of the gods could slow them down once they've set their mind to battle."

"Careful, that could be considered blasphemy."

"Not if it's the truth." Myron said, favoring Hexen with a small smile. "If you wish, I believe there is a part of the palace that would grant an excellent view of the army as it departs."

Hexen considered for a moment, then nodded.

"Yes, I believe I know where you're talking about."

He started forward, Myron falling in behind him in the traditional spot as would show himself as an advisor to nobility. It was strange to have his lifelong tutor take up such a position, especially considering their great difference in age, but Hexen understood the significance of the gesture. He drew himself up to his full height and tried to walk with all the confidence and dignity that would befit an Imperial High Lord. There were others moving about the palace, mostly scribes and advisors of lower importance, but several were nobles and even a few Senators judging by their garb. There were so many noble families within the lands of the Empire that Hexen could never even hope to know all of them. His father made a point to be friendly with as many members of the Imperial Senate as he could, understanding the need for friends in the world of politics, but he had never gotten around to bringing Hexen to any proper Senate gathering. That privilege had thus far only been given to Edmund as the Heir to House Duron. It was another experience that, like being able to join his father on the battlefield, Hexen would have to wait for another time.

They reached the other side of the Palace, climbing up a flight of stairs to reach the desired vantage point on the second floor. Upon arriving however, they discovered they were not the only ones who wished to see the army depart. A woman with braided red hair and a flowing cape at her back stood before the large windows, gazing outward. Hexen paused as she turned to face them, bowing respectfully.

"Princess Piña," He greeted her. "Trying to get a view of the army as well?"

Princess Piña Co Lada was a bit younger than Hexen, always easy to spot with Ruby colored eyes that matched her hair and the light armor she seemed to prefer wearing to anything else. She was the only member of the royal family that Hexen was decently familiar with, having had some friendly interactions during their respective trainings over the years and at a few formal occasions that his brother had brought him along too. Edmund was friends with the crown prince, Zorzal, and had even fought alongside him during a war a few years ago. Hexen had only interacted with him on a couple of occasions and was more than a little suspicious that he and his brother encouraged one another's less than honorable attributes.

"Hello Hexen," Piña greeted him. "Yes, I wished to get a glimpse of the force my father is sending through the Gate. I'm surprised to see you here, I thought I saw several House Duron standards among them."

"You saw correctly." Hexen said, stepping beside her near the window. "My father and brother are leading our contingent of troops for the invasion. I've been left to administer our lands in their stead."

"With some assistance to ensure you don't waste all the money in your treasury on lavish festivals?" Piña asked, a rueful smile on her face as she looked behind Hexen. "Greetings Sir Myron."

"M'lady." Myron answered, bowing his head.

"I would think your Uncle would have been left to rule in Lord Gallus's stead." Piña said, turning back towards Hexen. "That would have made you available to join in on the conquest."

"My uncle and cousin are away wyvern hunting at the moment." Hexen explained, shrugging. "Besides, my father wants me to gain some experience in Stewardship. It's not like the Empire will have a shortage of wars I won't be able to join in as time goes on."

"Yes...patience is indeed a virtue when it comes to awaiting glory." Piña said, her tone nearly as whispered as her eyes looked out past the palace. Hexen felt a pang of sympathy for her realizing Piña was probably even more frustrated with the situation then he was.

Piña was the Master of her own group of knights, The Order of the Rose. They were as well trained and equipped as any other but had thus far done little for the Imperial Army other then Color Guard duty. Some said it was because the Emperor didn't want to risk his daughter in battle, but very few agreed with that since his sons had marched to war plenty of times. The more agreed upon explanation was that it came down to gender. Much of the Order of the Rose was female like Piña, and apparently that was an issue. It was a strange excuse to Hexen's ears. Plenty of cultures outside of the Empire had no qualms about using females as soldiers, most famously the Warrior bunnies that had nearly delivered an embarrassing defeat to the Crown Prince himself. Even House Duron employed both genders for its armies, a tradition that went back to the days when they had been Kings before the rise of the Empire. But they were a minority, an exception to the generally accepted rules. Nearly all other lands that made up the Empire used males exclusively as their soldiers, with the Senate and the Emperor only allowing for rare exceptions. Apparently, the expedition beyond the Gate was not one of those exceptions.

"Well, we should still prepare ourselves for the day the Empire does call upon our service." Hexen said, trying to lighten the mood. "Why don't you bring your knights over to Duron lands in the near future? We can use the training grounds there to sharpen our skills."

"Really?" Piña raised a brow. "I didn't know such plans could be made in a short period of time."

"They normally can't." Hexen agreed. "But with much of our forces and Knights leaving for the invasion, we'll have both the space and the resources to accommodate such short notice requests."

"How fortunate for us then." She smiled slightly. "I'll consider it, I know many in the order would jump at the chance to make use of the Duron training grounds."

"You flatter us your majesty."

"And the opportunity for 'Lord" Hexen to find some courtship opportunities wouldn't hurt either." Myron said from behind them.

"MYRON!" Hexen whirled on his former tutor, both to glare at him and hide the heat that had suddenly risen in his face from the Princess. The old knight gave him a look of innocence.

"My job is to help advise and support you in all things, 'my lord'." He said with a glimmer in his eye. "That includes helping find you a proper bride to be."

Hexen prepared a sharp retort but stopped himself when he heard Piña burst out in laughter.

"You're truly lucky to have such a loyal servant Lord Hexen." She said, her tone that of good-natured mocking.

"Yes, so very lucky…" Hexen grumbled, still fixing Myron with his most intimidating look. It didn't seem to be working all that well.

"Regardless, it appears the army is preparing to move out." Piña said. Hexen paused in his internal plans of revenge to look back at the window, having nearly forgotten why they had come up here to begin with. Outside, in between the Palace and the gates to the Capital city, thousands of soldiers stood in their formations. This wasn't the entire army of course, just those of the most noble and distinguished of bloodlines that had been invited to the capital to be seen off by the Emperor himself before meeting up with the other part of the army to go through the Gate. Dozens of Banners flew, showing the colors of both Noble houses and Knightly orders. Hexen recognized a few of them, having seen some during his travels with his father or for training on Duron lands at one point or another. Above all of them flew the standard of the Empire, the gold and purple flag acting as the glue that bound together this impressive force from all across the realm. Hexen strained his eyes to see the front of the House Duron forces, recognizable from the others by their own banners. A pair of armored figures mounted their horses at the head of this impressive gathering, the metal plates gleaming in the sunlight as freshly polished steel the soldiers cheering loudly at the arrival of their Lord. Even at this distance, Hexen could see the symbol of the red wolf emblazoned upon a black painted breastplate, the emblem worn by all of Duron blood when going into battle. He began to feel more jealous than ever of his brother, and more than a little foolish.

What had he been so worried about? His father was one of the most talented Generals in the history of the Empire with decades of experience, and Edmund had already proven himself to be a skilled warrior in several smaller campaigns. To round it out, they were leading the finest soldiers in the world, the Imperial Army that ruled the largest nation the planet had ever seen. Whatever lay beyond the Gate would certainly be crushed in a short amount of time.

"Maybe there will be enough land on the other side that we'll be able to take part in follow up attacks, once the initial conquest has been achieved." Hexen said, mostly to himself as he watched the armies now departing with their Lords leading the way out into the city.

"We will have to wait for them to send messengers back for us to see." Piña glanced back at Hexen. "Will you be returning to your estate?"

"Not right away. We've made arrangements to stay the night here in the Capital and depart in the morning."

"I see. Then perhaps we may happen upon each other again." She turned to face the two men. "But for now, I have business to attend to for the Order. Good evening to you both."

"Good evening your majesty." Both Hexen and Myron said, bowing as she departed. Hexen looked one last time through the window, getting a final glimpse of the army as the gates closed behind them.

"I don't suppose there's any chance we can stay in the Capital a few days more?" He asked.

"Unfortunately not." Myron shook his head. "The outlying villages are still under threat from roving bands of orcs and those damned Forest Rangers. Staying away too long could be seen as a sign of weakness to them."

"That at least sounds like it should have some excitement."

"We also have to meet with the Steward, he will have an updated tax report that we'll have to verify to make sure none are stealing from our coffers."

Hexen sighed. He could already tell his tenure as Lord was going to be a painful one.