The Legend

Part I (Faces of the Past)
Introduction
For several years now, a bloody war has been going on between Meinard and the group of allied states of Arkon and Vauton. These three great countries were an oasis of civilization in the ocean of lifeless lands in the South and wild peoples inhabiting the Northern territories. Arkon and Vauton, once bitter rivals, rallied in the face of a common threat of extermination.
The "Marna" corps of the army of His Majesty King Virgil under the command of the famous General Swan, pushed back the army of Meinard, coming closer and closer to his capital. But the decisive battle was yet to come.
Athanasius Mirra - Arkon's warrior is on the front lines. He has nothing to prove in this war. He only does what he does best.
Chapter 1 (Change)
The sun had not yet appeared over the horizon, and Tan was already tying the laces on his boots. As often happened, he had a difficult night. Blame the nightmares that have followed him for a long time. These scary and brutal nocturnal references came from his childhood. In most cases, these were some small segments that were difficult to see in the fog. They were like a fuzzy reflection on the water surface. But sometimes, the dreams were vivid, as if it was happening now at the moment. The last thing he remembered before he opened his eyes was how his mother was screaming his name Athanasius !!! Athanasius !!! Run quickly, my boy ...
He raised his head, took in the air heavily with his lungs, and exhaled just as hard. More than thirty years have passed since the moment when his village was attacked. But to this day, the past did not let him go and did not give him peace. He missed her! On her soft hands and tender lips that kissed his disheveled head. His eyes were suddenly saturated with moisture. But Tan drove those thoughts out of his head. The time in which he lives does not forgive weakness. He could show such vulnerability only in moments when he was alone, but leaving his command tent, he became Athanasius Mirra - the commander of the vanguard of the army of His Majesty King Virgil! It should be noted that by the age of thirty-seven, Athanasius had already become known as a great warrior. He visited five major battles, which won the king Virgil control over the vast territory that once belonged to people who call themselves Meinardians. Tan paid tribute to the ability of Meinard's warriors to take a blow. They were ferocious people. They were physically very strong and powerful, in part, it was because of this that Tan was constantly exercising! He could not afford to concede in anything to anyone. Unlike the people of Meinard, the Arconians, which Athanasius was, were not as physically developed, but they had impressive growth, on average about two meters in height. They had blonde hair and good vision in the dark, which was passed down from their ancestors who lived most of their lives in caves. Although, with a sharp change in lighting, it took some time for the eyes to adjust. And also differed in skin color. The people of the Arkon race had white skin, while the Meinardians had dark skin, the color of red clay. And it is not surprising, given how hellishly their sun was burning at its zenith. Looking through the window opening, Tan did not find a single cloud in the sky, which meant that another hot day awaited him, although the summer was already over. He swore to himself. But still forced myself to get up. While the sun has not yet appeared, he will have time to perform the ritual that accompanied him on all campaigns. Namely, jogging, with a distance of about 7-10 kilometers, and after compulsory physical exercises with their own weight.
Throwing open the door, Tan went out into the street. I breathed in the air. -Very dry, he thought. How Athanasius yearned for the rain. Approaching a barrel of water, which stood next to the entrance to the tent, he scooped water into a jug standing there and poured all its contents onto his head. Suddenly, as if waking up from a dream, Tan heard sounds coming from the direction of the forest: singing of birds, rustling of branches. An unknown insect chirped in the grass nearby. And all these sounds reminded him so much of home. Smiling slightly, Tan went to perform his morning ritual.
A few hours later, having heavily refreshed himself, Tan was at the training base, where he checked and supervised the training of his squad.. They weren't the best of the best. But these were the very people with whom Tan wanted to serve and those who eventually replaced his family. Under his supervision, everyone performed the exercises with special zeal, because Tan enjoyed indisputable authority, both among ordinary soldiers and officers. Tan knew that rumors and various tales were circulating in the detachment and beyond about his military exploits. Tan even heard that he single-handedly chopped an entire enemy squadron to pieces. He always found it amusing how from mouth to mouth five people turn into fifty elite thugs. But the skill in working with the sword was not to be occupied by Tan. At the same time, add the speed and mighty strength that he had. And believe me, there are few who would like to measure their strength with him. But nevertheless, from time to time such people were. As a rule, these were battle-hardened wars who wanted to write their names in history. Tan has fought over a hundred such fights. And he was never defeated. Therefore, there have not been many such challenges lately. The last challenge was accepted about two years ago. It was a large Arconian named Egon, who also had the blood of Meinard's people in his veins. Therefore, in physique he was not inferior to Atanasius. However, the battle did not last even one minute. Tan, like no one knew how to read his opponent, and after a little reconnaissance and parrying several blows of Egon's sword, he struck him with a lightning blow with his left hand from below in the jaw. The blow was delivered with such force that Egon's head threw back, and it seemed that it was about to tear off the spine. Needless to say, after that, he fell as if knocked down in the tournament circle, and Tan didn't even lose his breath. The face showed no emotion. He knew this would happen. This has always been the case. After that, Athanasius Mirra stopped taking calls. He even received an offer to go to serve in the guard of the castle of Virgil himself. Who would have thought, the son of a simple blacksmith, would be in the personal guard of the king. But Mirra did not need such work. Although he sometimes didn’t know what he wanted, it was definitely not city life in a warm bed. The army is his home!
***
Tan, awakened by a woman screaming. This scream was like a bolt from the blue. He jumped out of bed and immediately grabbed the scabbard, in which was his faithful friend and companion, the sword that was forged for him by the masters from Ancalite, a place where good steel is valued. Places where weapons for the king's army were forged.
Everything was like a fog. With an uneven, staggering gait, Tan moved toward the door. Grasping the handle, he pulled towards himself, but the door would not budge. Then he pressed harder, but the door, as before, stood on its own, like a silent guard. Tan felt as if someone had taken all his power. Suddenly he heard a noise in the opposite part of the room. Tan turned around and saw a gaping hole in the wall, from which screams and bright light could be heard. So bright that it is impossible to see through it. Tan swallowed, from the fact that his throat was wildly dry and went to the doorway with full determination to find out what was going on. But the body did not obey him and instead of the usual speed, Tan barely moving his legs, dragging his sword in its sheath, across the floor, moved towards the light. Entering it, Tan found himself on the street ... The small village in which he was was half engulfed in flames. Some of the houses had already burned down, and some were just beginning to burn. People, women and children were running around, terrified trying to find salvation. At the end of the street, he saw a silhouette of a man emerge from behind a blazing house. He had a sword in his hands.
Dressed in all black, with a hood on his head, he began to look around. Noticing Tana, the stranger moved towards him. As he approached, there was a tension in the air. Suddenly, next to him, a shadow jumped out of the door of the house, it was Aengus, a neighbor's boy of about fourteen. The man cut off the guy's leg with a sharp movement of his hand, and with the second movement, he cut off his head just as quickly that Aengus did not even have time to utter a word. He did it without fuss, without unnecessary movements, as if he had swatted a cockroach. This was Wotan's representative. The territories of Wotan and Arkon were bordered by each other. However, a peace agreement was concluded between the rulers of both peoples, which had lasted for hundreds of years, and the representatives of Arkon were not afraid to build their houses near the borders. It is obvious that once it was one people, one tribe, but for some reason they split up. They were distinguished by the complete absence of hair and eye color. For Wotan's representatives, they were bright blue, which glowed in the dark. But this one was different. When he looked up, Tan saw that from the seemingly bottomless darkness in the hood, bright blue eyes with red blotches of bloody color were gazing at him. Tan waited, preparing to fend off the attacker. As the man in black approached, Tan began to realize how impressive his size was. Approaching a sufficient distance, the man in black lunged to the side. At the same time, with a lightning-fast movement, he raised his mighty hand, in which was a sword, and with deafening force sent it directly to Tan's head. But Tan managed to raise his hand and his sword took the blow.
Thane's sword, which had been forged by Ancalite's finest craftsmen, shattered into tiny pieces. From the force of the blow, Atanasius sat down on his ass, leaning on the ground with his left hand, and on his outstretched right, he watched the handle of his former friend, with a small fragment of metal remaining in it. Tan just couldn't believe it. And the man in black loomed over him. Only now did he notice his war paint on his face, which made him even more terrifying. He had already raised his hand to complete what he had begun, but suddenly he heard the sonorous voice of his mother.
- Athanasius!
Tan turned around and saw his mother standing near the house, covered in blood and shouting:
- Athanasius, run quickly, my boy!
***
As always, the sun had not yet had time to show its sharp rays, and Tan was already sitting on the bed and thinking about the dream he had seen. Suddenly his thoughts were unceremoniously broken by a knock at the door. "What the heck?! Who else is there! " Tan thought.
Opening the door, he saw a young man, his name was Bercy and he was the personal adjutant of General Swann. Tan nodded his head to him so that he would immediately come in. Bercy was slightly overweight and shifted from foot to foot, not looking into the eyes of Athanasius. But he was very fulfilling and did all the work entrusted to him with diligence. He was always so nervous in the presence of Tan that it even slightly amused the latter, because he knew that the reason for everything was rumors about his ferocity in battle and exactingness to the soldiers. Athanasius decided to maintain the tension, and, frowning, with a steel gaze in his eyes, inquired about the reason for such an early visit. Hearing the question, Bercy immediately stretched out like a string and his cheeks trembled with zeal. It looked so comical that Tan could not restrain himself, smiled and, going up to Bercy, patted him on the shoulder. - Relax guy, what's up?
- General Swann, asks you to report immediately to his apartment, Bercy said;
- For what purpose? - Tan pressed;
“I don’t know,” Bercy replied.
- Okay, inform the general that I will arrive now!
Bercy immediately turned around and headed for the exit, glad that communication with Tan was over.
Tan watched the departing young man, smiled and thought that not everyone in the army was destined to be a war and, shaking his head, closed the door.
Having dressed, he immediately went to the general. It took a good ten minutes to go to the general's house, so Tan, in order not to waste time, decided to take his brigantine with him and fasten it along the way. Because it is necessary to come to the general in a proper form and be ready to immediately go on a mission without delay. His sword was also with him. He was excellent. The handle was brown calfskin. The pommel and the V-shaped guard, the rays of which go in the opposite direction from the handle, were covered with gilding. The Ricasso blade was adorned with red tourmaline. The straight, double-edged blade hid behind an elaborate black scabbard. His pants and boots were of high quality leather, made to last, but already pretty well worn and well worn. His brigantine was trimmed with black leather. A pattern was embroidered on the chest and abdomen with white threads. Ornament from the lines. The bottom, unlike the standard form, was sharpened. Shoulders with similar embroidery and neck protection were also attached to it. The belts were designed in such a way that it would be possible to fasten it yourself, without helpers. She was in better shape than pants and shoes, although she had several marks from contact with the blades of opponents swords. Bracers with inserts of metal steel plates were made in the same style as the brigantine. He needed them in battle, because he practically did not use a shield.
At the door of the general's house, he was met by guards in the form of two guards with spears. Seeing the approaching guest, the guards tensed slightly, but as soon as they realized who it was, they immediately greeted him. Tan so put his right hand to his chest.
Bercy opened the door for him. When Athanasius entered, he found General Swann collecting things in the chests. The general, noticing Tan, gestured to Bercy that he would go out. Swann was gloomy, but this was not uncommon. Approaching Tan, he handed him a scroll with the royal seal. Athanasius, without taking his eyes off the general, asked:
- What is it?
- Read it.
Tan began to read and after a while, looking up at the general asked: - When?
As you may have noticed, I am packing my things, my boy. And as you might have guessed, I'm not crazy about this idea. My place is just like yours on the battlefield. But the king believes that he has too many politicians in his military advisers and it is time to dilute them with the company of a military general. '' Hmm, Tan replied, theorists are a dime a dozen, but practitioners can be counted on one hand.
- All correctly answered the general and, coming closer to Tan, said: - You will go with me.
- What…? I AM…? General, I'm needed here. My place is here. We are aware of the concentration of strength of the opponents. A battle is coming soon.
“We both know that this war has already been won,” the general said with a sad note in his voice.
- But what about my squad? My people? I must lead them with me!
- Athanasius, do you remember our first meeting?
Tan has a lump in his throat! And he immediately fell silent.
“When we came to the village, I was only twenty years old,” the general continued. "Gloomy warrior", as I called myself then. I already commanded a detachment, the same as you are commanding now, and I did not know anything about the war! What we saw there changed me forever. Such atrocities have not been seen, even by those who have been in the battles of the war. All the villagers were killed! Their tortured and disfigured bodies were everywhere, where our eyes did not fall. And then in the compost pit, on the outskirts of the village, we heard a rustle. Everyone grabbed their swords, not knowing what to expect. But a boy came out of the pit, he looked only seven or eight years old. But contrary to the expectation that the guy would roar excitedly and tremble at nonsense, which would be logical, given what was happening, he just looked at me, and I looked at him. I looked, and could not believe in any way that a child could have such a look. There was everything in him ... I have never seen such a look either before or after - the general's voice trembled. Since then we have not parted with you. I taught you everything I know. You have a family, instead of the one that was taken from you. As you know, I have no one dearer than you. I am proud of who you have become. And I need you and your support, because I have no one to rely on in the capital. So what do you say?
Athanasius could not refuse.

***
Amid the peaceful and soothing clatter of hooves, Tan, General Swann and a dozen soldiers headed to the capital! Anamut, was the concentration of Arkon's power and power. Tanu had a chance to visit it somehow. He was amazed at the skill and greatness of the mastery of the architects of his people! I was even able to see the castle of the king from afar.
- Why now? Tan asked.
- I suppose there are several reasons for this. Firstly, in two weeks the meeting of the high command will take place, where the question of the final stage of the war will be decided. And the advice of an experienced military leader will be extremely useful. Also do not forget that 20 years ago, King Virgil and King Orme made peace between our states. And on this occasion, the king wants to organize a feast and festivities. Of course, I understand that you have your own scores with the Wotans, but for me it is better to drink ale at the celebration of peace than to choke on blood in a war.
Tan understood this very well. Over the long years of service in the army, he saw a lot and agreed with the general. For all his hatred of Wotan, he even felt sympathy for King Orm.
Twenty years ago, Orme became a rebel general who overthrew his ruler, the brutal King Reim. And immediately after that, he made an appeal to end this senseless war unleashed by his king. When Athanasius was young and inexperienced, he assumed that Orma made the people king in gratitude for the liberation from the tyrant and the end of the bloody war. But now he knew that the power he received was due to the power that he had. There was an army behind him, that's the whole secret.
- You must understand, continued Swann, life at court is not sweet to me myself. However, this position opens up great opportunities and prospects. Tell me, how many senseless sacrifices could have been avoided if the council had people who know their business? Competent commanders who have fought more than once themselves?
There he looked at the general, and, meeting his eyes, nodded to him in approval.
After a few minutes of silence, and enjoying the chirping of birds and the sound of trees, General Swann continued.
- Tell me, how are you doing on the personal front?
The corners of Tan's lips lifted slightly. He could not seriously talk about such a topic. - Nothing serious. I guess I'm not made for family life.
- From what? the general asked. You're still young. Representatives of our race live on average about a hundred years. So you still have time to find that one. Have offspring. A reliable rear has not harmed anyone yet.
Tan retorted, - Well, judge for yourself, whose husband is always not at home, and who may not return from another campaign. Not an enviable share for a girl.
- So find yourself one that will share your hobbies.
- Warrior ?! No really. These are completely crazy. Don't you know.
Then the general and Tan burst into loud laughter. - It's better as it is. Everything suits me.
- Do not take an example from me, Mirra! I will have no one to bring a glass of water before I die.
-Tan smiled again. “We both know the servants will do it for you.
Swann laughed. - Your truth. Since I am destined to settle in the capital at the court of the king, it is useless to wipe my ass myself. I may be misunderstood.
And they both burst out laughing. Yes, so loud that the birds fell from the trees and flew along the edge of a small cliff, along the river, dodging between the branches of the bushes and flying next to the heads of the leading soldiers. In the distance, hills were visible, and from the left on the other side of the river, fields of wheat went into the horizon
Swann was one of the few people who entered the innermost recesses of the soul of Athanasius. Tan was overjoyed about this. After all, everyone needs a loved one next to him, even if this relationship is not by blood.

***
It was a grueling ten days. Due to the fact that the meeting was to begin fourteen days after the departure from the "Marne" building, it was necessary to walk seventy miles a day. Everyone was pretty tired. But it was necessary. And now ten days passed, and the general with his retinue was already approaching the borders of Anamut. It was immediately clear that this was the capital of a prosperous state. Long before the city itself, wretched hovels and shacks had replaced houses skillfully crafted by Mister Wood, with gardens, vineyards and landscaped grounds. Increasingly, patrols and checkpoints began to come across on the way. During these 10 days, the cloudless sky with the blazing sun changed to a more welcoming one with islands of clouds, but still sunny and blue. After another couple of miles the city appeared. The first thing that a traveler saw approaching the capital was two standing towers about 100 meters high, which settled above the rooftops and divided the city into northern and southern parts. One of the towers was occupied by the scientists of Anamut, and in the other there were soldiers who guarded the city. In the center was the king's castle. Although it would be more accurate to say, it was a complex of structures, which also included the future workplace of General Swann, the Anamut conglomerate. The meetings of which were attended by various representatives of state authorities, ranging from the military and ending with the masters of coins.
There were, of course, several passages to the city, but the central and largest was the Royal Gateway.
The general and his companions were in riding clothes, therefore, when they entered the capital, no one paid much attention to them. Another military who arrived in the city.
- Athanasius, find yourself a room in any of the visiting houses. And buy yourself some new clothes. You, however, are my confidant and in four days you will go with me to Duke Erhard. Bercy and I will stay at the Royal Guest Palace, at his invitation. You have a couple of days to spare, so don't waste them. Smiling at each other, they shook hands, and Tan headed towards his horse.
Suddenly the general called out to him. Turning around, he saw Swann throw something at him. After catching it, Tan realized that it was a bag of coins. He raised his head and looked at his old friend in bewilderment.
- Why are you looking at me like that, Athanasius? asked Swann, not hiding a smile. It is the king who pays you, not me. Then he climbed on a horse and with his retinue went further, deep into the city, where he was lost in a second among the people and stalls.
There he looked at the bag, smiled, tossed it with his palm and immediately caught it. Well, since the king pays for everything …
Chapter 2 (Broken Sword)
She lay on the bed and was fast asleep, her arms clasped to her chest. The sun had already risen and with its rays was trying to break into the room through the cracks between the curtains. He tied the laces on his pants and did not take his eyes off her back, remembering the night before. From what, warmth spread through the body, and a pleasant shiver ran. To be honest, he didn't want to leave, but he always felt awkward in the morning. Her name was Gertie. A typical name for an urban peasant woman. But working as a courtesan was much more profitable. He took a coin from the bag and placed it on a nearby bedside table. It was golden. About her monthly salary, but he was not in the least sorry for him. She honestly earned it by giving affection and love to Athanasius. He put on his shirt and quietly walked out, praying not to wake her up.
When he went down the steps and went out into the street, the merchants, beggars, common people, were already pouring out into the street and doing their own thing, as it seemed to them important to them. He looked up at the sky, which was covered with islands of clouds. What a blue and incredibly beautiful, Tan thought. Then he walked slowly up the street. Thus began his second day. The first, he spent looking for a room and washing himself of the dust from the field. The room in a drive-through house called "Spattering Efa", on the ground floor of which there was a small tavern, was quite tolerable and was not cheap by the city's standards. Having paid the owner of the house, for high-quality cleaning and looking after his room, during the absence of the guest, Athanasius went to the city. After passing a couple of streets, the pleasant name "Naked Chest" caught his eye. When he entered the establishment, he was immediately greeted by the hostess, who kindly inquired about the client's name, where he was from, and his preferences. And after a short conversation, she took me to the room, where Gertie came a couple of minutes later. It seemed to him that for a girl of her profession, she entered the room too timidly. Gertie was extremely sweet and polite. And after a couple of mugs of ale, not a trace of Athanasius's embarrassment remained. It was a wonderful night, and it seemed to him that Gertie was also delighted. Although one cannot plead with the fact that, like any craft, this is also taught, and perhaps it was just a skillfully played role. But this was the matter of last night, and now Tan had a task no less difficult than a sortie into the enemy's camp. He needed to find new pants and boots. He was very demanding and attached to his things. The same was true for clothing. Athanasius knew that buying new clothes from him could take all day. But Gertie advised him a couple of decent places where he would not be deceived and he might be able to find something for himself. Approaching the first place, near the entrance, Tan noticed a boy who was playing the pity. Having earned a little, he went inside. "Gostra Golka" is the name of the tailor's establishment. But, having heard from Tan his wishes, he said that there are not many craftsmen in the city who sew good-quality clothes for soldiers. Because it should be not only beautiful, but also durable, practical, comfortable and of course should contain the elements of protection. But he knows one such master and will gladly show the way. The tailor went out into the street and called the very boy who was sitting next to the entrance. When the boy entered, the tailor introduced him as his little son named Tin. Then he turned to the boy and said that he would take him to his uncle Bert, to which he silently nodded and went out into the street. Thanking the owner of the workshop, Athanasius went out after the youth. About a quarter of an hour later, the boy took Tana into some remote house, unremarkable, without any signs about the workshop located in it. But, opening the door, he immediately realized that he had come to the right place. There was a dim light from candles and oil lamps. The windows are curtained. There were wooden mannequins everywhere, as well as stacks of production material. Tan realized that the sewing man here knew his craft well. Tan also noticed metal plates and scabbard blanks. In the depths of the corridor, a strong man appeared, but as he approached, it was evident that he was already at an advanced age. The man approached Tan and greeted him with his right hand to his chest.
- You are military? Tan asked, somewhat surprised.
- Once it was, the old man answered.
- How do you understand about me?
- You have a military bearing, a very strong physique, and you also have a special look.
- And which one?
- A look of sadness and valor.
Tan was about to ask him another question, but the old man unceremoniously interrupted him.
I guess you're here to pick up a pair of new pants, not to bang out, huh?
That's right, and he told him about his vision of excellent and quality clothing.
The old man listened indifferently to him, then took measurements and said that by tomorrow morning everything would be ready. Everything will be delivered to his guest house. Athanasius thanked him, paid, and went out with Tin.
- And your uncle is silent, turned to the guy Tan.
- It's right.
- Where did he fight?
“I don’t know, he never talks about it.
- Remind me of his name?
- Uncle Bert.
Clear. Well, come on, I'll show you where you need to bring your clothes tomorrow.
***
That evening, Tan did not abuse alcohol and spent time sharpening his sword. And before going to bed I organized a little workout for myself. As usual, he woke up before dawn after another nightmare. Sitting on the bed, he looked at the ammunition standing in the corner and the sharpened sword standing in the same place. Athanasius thought that he would gladly smash their head, the bastard who constantly came to him in his dreams. Rising slowly out of bed, he went to the window. Looking at the city awakening from sleep, he realized that he liked it more like that. Quiet, majestic and most importantly, without people. Maybe this is due to what happened to him in childhood, or perhaps due to his character traits, Athanasius loved loneliness. Not that he was a hermit of spiritual dreams, but long communication tired him. He loved silence and loved to be alone with himself. Many of his colleagues considered him strange, some rude, some even dangerous, but each of them knew Tan was smart. During the battles, like no one else, he made the right decisions with lightning speed, which helped to save dozens of lives. For this, in the army, Tan enjoyed indisputable authority. Every soldier dreamed of being in his squad, because this at least guaranteed a greater probability of survival.
Even yesterday, Tan noticed preparations in the city for a council of war and the celebration of the union of Arkon and Vauton. The entire elite of the armed forces will gather in the city, in addition, the allies will be present at the council, including King Orme.
There was a knock at the door. Tan had expected this, so not a muscle in his face quivered as the silence was ripped apart by blows to wood. He threw on a towel and walked to the door. Opening it, he found Tina standing near the door, in whose hands were three packages. Without saying anything, Tan walked away from the door and approached the place where his clothes were folded. Putting his hand down to the bottom, he pulled out a bag of coins.
- Put everything on the bed.
Ting did just that. Then Atanasius handed the boy a copper and, patting the guy on the head, thanked him for his work. Leaving the room, Ting was very pleased with himself. You could read it on his face.
Then Tan lit an oil lamp in order to better see what the boy brought him. Opening the first package, he found leather pants with skillfully sewn protection in the form of metal plates. Opening the second package, he found high boots in it. Having examined them better, Tan realized that these boots have several additional details that he did not discuss with the tailor. First, the toe and heel of the boot were reinforced with metal inserts. In addition, the boots had a lacing with three fasteners in the front, along the entire length of the boot and looked very solid. Tan involuntarily smiled, having received aesthetic pleasure from what he saw, and in fact it is very difficult for him to please. Then his gaze fell on the third bundle. The agreement was only about pants and boots, and he could not put his mind to what was in it. Carefully opening the package, he saw that it contained gloves, which were also reinforced with sewn metal plates for the most severe strike in hand-to-hand combat.
“I'll have to bring him a bottle of good ale,” Tan thought.
Without becoming a long wait, Atanasius proceeded to try on clothes, and not finding any flaws, he was satisfied, went downstairs to have a bite of a couple of chicken eggs and blood sausage. However, on the way to meet him, Bercy came across, who had just entered the guest house. Seeing Tan, he stretched out and was about to approach him with a marching step, but Tan, seeing this, immediately stopped him, slightly waving his lowered hand. Then he himself approached Bercy and asked why he was here. Bercy said that before tomorrow's meeting, Duke Erhard is gathering generals for an informal meeting at his estate today. So to speak, a secular evening. The general will wait for Tan at his place, so that he would attend the evening with him as a confidant. Tan rolled his eyes in displeasure, but there was no choice.
“All right, tell the general that I'll be arriving in the evening.
Bercy nodded, pressed his hand to his chest and left, and Tan sat down at the table to satisfy his hunger.
***
In the evening, Athanasius Mirra, in full uniform, including new clothes, stood near the general's carriage. The only thing he didn't wear from his entire arsenal was the gloves that Bert gave him. So it was accepted that a confidant should be staffed both for battle and accompany the general as his warrior at social evenings. Tan looked imposing. The local service staff looked out of the windows to look at this impressive war. The maids crowded at the windows. They winked at Tan and whispered to each other, laughing and biting their lips. And not surprisingly, Athanasius was in great shape as never before. His muscles wrapped around his arms like steel ropes. New, padded leather pants hugged his powerful thighs. He had shoulder-length light brown hair that was slightly wavy at the ends. The small bristles also added a brutal look. When the general went out, his face expressed seriousness, his lips were frowning, and frowning eyebrows stretched to the floor, but when he saw Tan, he cheered up and calmed down, because it was obvious that General Swann was nervous. Such evenings were new to him, but their attendance allowed him to acquire new acquaintances and promote his ideas among all the participants in the evening much more effectively than debates in the council. Swann knew this. Athanasius also knew this, therefore, when the general approached him, he whispered in a whisper, "General, this is like the first battle, you just need to start, and then everything will go like clockwork." Swan smiled and patted Tan on the shoulder.
- Damn, how healthy you are! I myself was not small at your age, but I can definitely say that I am far from you. I've never seen a man of your size, comparable only to a bear, be so fast. Well, okay, the general gasped, let's go to these vultures, we'll show that we are not bastard either. Then they plunged into the carriage and, a procession of a carriage and ten mounted warriors moved towards Erhard's estate.
About a quarter of an hour later, they arrived at the central doors of the estate. Erhard was an extremely influential figure and enormous funds were spent on such a house. To climb from the road to the central entrance, it was necessary to overcome a staircase with massive granite steps, which were polished to a shine. On the sides, which, flaunted the figures of lions frozen in a menacing roar. Along the way, a red carpet was laid along which servants stood with trays on which there were wine glasses with various alcoholic beverages. But Swann and Athanasius did not even look at them, stubbornly moving towards the door.
Castellan, standing not far from the door, bowed to the guests. Swann handed two invitations into his hands. After reading them, with a false smile, he bowed again to the general and gestured to the servants to open the door shutters made of gilded metal.
Moving towards the door, Tan suddenly smiled and whispered in Swann's ear. Decent generals lead women to a secular evening, and you drag a soldier in full uniform.
But, I'm a combat general, right? And the same could not help smiling.
Before entering, Svan said the phrase: - "Well, into battle ..." and, without slowing down, both went inside.
***
As soon as they crossed the threshold, I will fight, out of nowhere, the waiters with drinks and snacks were next to them.
- General Swann, how glad I am to see you today in this hall, throwing his hands up, said Duke Erhard. Coming closer, he embraced the general, not taking his eyes off Athanasius.
- God, who is this?
“This is my confidant and the best fighter in His Majesty's army, Athanasius Mirra,” the general announced with pride.
- How wonderfully harmonious he is!
- That's right, Duke!
- Excuse me not to call me that again! In an informal setting, for you I am Erhard, and that's it! The duke said with pompous resentment.
The way Duke Erhard looked at him made Athanasius uneasy. Suddenly Erhard turned sharply away from him, as from a bored toy, and again embracing Swann, led him to get acquainted with the palace elite of Arkon. Tan stayed where he was, watching as all the gentlemen in turn shook the general's hand, smiled and courted him. But, as soon as the general left, having said a couple of words, to meet other guests of the evening, their smile immediately disappeared. He saw them, screwing up their eyes, looking with envy at the trail of the future member of the military council.
- Yes, here's the mighty of this world for you, a snake ball, and that's all, Tan thought.
Deciding to look around, he took a glass of apple juice, and began his journey to determine the escape in case of emergency. He always did this, it was his habit. “If you want to survive, you have to be ready for anything,” Tan liked to repeat. Having walked around the hall a couple of three times, he already knew on which staircase how many steps, which doors were open and which were locked, as well as the number of guards. Then Tan set to work on the servant and after a while his gaze settled on the incredible beauty of the girl who was handing out glasses of wine. Something set her apart from the rest of the maid crew. She had a slender waist, but from the shoulders and hips, he realized that the girl devotes quite a lot of time to strength exercises. She had a firm gaze that noticed all the guests in the hall. But this gaze was exclusively watching the duke. Then the girl turned her head and their eyes met. Tan smiled at her, but the girl, noticing that she had become the object of someone's attention, was immediately lost in the crowd. An attempt to find her again turned out to be even. Tan found it a bit strange, but the course of his thought process was unceremoniously interrupted by the sound of the opening of the central doors. Time seemed to have stopped, and he saw the young general and two of his guards enter the hall.
- What the fuck ?! Tan asked a question to himself.
As if having heard this question, Duke Erhard immediately climbed the stairs and, having passed a couple of steps to rise above the rest, stopped, turning to the guests.
“Ladies and gentlemen, at my invitation, we were joined by the general of the Batro corps of the army of His Majesty King Orma, an ally of His Holiness King Virgil. - Greetings, General Argos!
Argos greeted those present with a subtle nod of his head. He looked very young for such a title. Medium height. Athletic physique. With a direct and firm gaze. It was clear that he was not a bit, was not nervous and was not embarrassed by the attention to his person. Erhard then followed the same procedure as with General Swann. A little courtesy and they went to all the guests to get to know each other as a sign of respect. Athanasius did not take his eyes off them. An explosive cocktail of anger, bewilderment, disgust, and oddly enough interest was seething in him.
Having met half of the guests, Erhard and General Argos retired in some room, judging by the entire personal study of the duke, at the door of which the retinue of Argos remained.
After staying there, they left for a while, and Erhard continued to acquaint Argos with the remaining generals and board members. At the moment when General Swann's turn came, Athanasius was somewhere three steps behind him.
- General Argos, began the Duke, let me introduce you to General Swann, now a member of His Majesty's military council.
- Greetings, General! said Argos, in a calm voice. His hairless face did not produce any emotion, but it was clear that, unlike the others, he had respect for Swann. Only then did Tan notice. Eyes. They were the same as in his dreams.
- I've heard a lot about you and your successes on the battlefield. How you know how to fight, there are legends, even among our soldiers, said Argos.
Swann opened his mouth to respond with courtesy to courtesy, which was required by the protocol of ethics and diplomacy, but Athanasius was ahead of him. Slowly coming out from behind the general and not taking his eyes off Argos, he said:
- Your skills also certainly deserve attention.
Argos's face showed surprise. He immediately looked at the duke.
This confidant of the Swann general, Athanasius Mirra, was pronounced by Erhard, and his speech sparked with irritation.
- You choose the moment to attack very carefully, right?
The Wotan was silent, while it was evident that he frowned. His brow ridges slid down.
“The most favorable time is at night, when there are only unarmed men, women and children in the villages,” Athanasius growled loudly.
The guests who were nearby were silent, watching the scene.
General Swann immediately turned to him. - These are the deeds of days gone by, he said, and began to take his friend away, turning him towards the exit.
- Maybe we should show you our skills, mister Mirra ?! pronounced Argos.
Tan stopped. The general's attempts to move him from his place did not lead to anything. He turned around. There was rage in his eyes. Clenching his hands into fists, he began to approach Argos. But Swann, catching up with Atanasius, whispered: - Come to your senses! What are you doing? And the red veil fell from his eyes. He looked at the duke, who was furious. His nostrils drew in eagerly, his eyes turned red, his lips narrowed into a barely visible line.
- I apologize! Mirra said, then turned around and headed for the exit.
-“How about a show fight before the opening of the celebrations,” Argos called after him.
Athanasius turned to face him, but did not approach, so as not to tempt fate.
“Arkon and Wotan,” he continued. What is not an excellent start to the celebration of the beginning of the great union - Our reconciliation! And, of course, demonstrations of fighting skills. As he spoke his last words, he grinned.
The duke, hurt by this impudent behavior, supported Argos. “So be it,” he said. Tomorrow, in the grand arena, before the opening of the celebration in honor of the peace and union of the states of Wotan and Arkon. A demonstration fight will take place. As far as I understand, the representative of Arkon has already been chosen, for there is no one who could compare with the inimitable Athanasius Mirra, Erhard said with an arrogant grin. Who will speak on behalf of Wotan? the duke turned to General Argos.
There was a deathly silence.
- I am!
***
- Athanasius! What the hell are you doing? General Swann asked him with obvious nervousness in his voice. “Forgive me, I don’t know what came over me. When I saw his eyes, it was like I was back at that time. I felt the same fear that I experienced then.
- Understand that I still have no influence on the local officials. People like the duke do not forgive such disrespectful behavior. You made a scene at his house! In his presence.
Athanasius was silent, completely lost in his thoughts. He just looked at the fire in General Swann's fireplace and recalled the horror from his childhood. Time has stopped for him.
- You must understand, continued Swann, I'm not worried about what you will do, this guy, on the contrary, breathed out Swan, I'm afraid that after you, he will be carried out of the circle on a stretcher.
- So what? Tan spoke indifferently, not taking his eyes off the fire.
- And then, Svan said sadly, that he is the son of King Orm.
Tan looked up, and in his eyes was read the gravity of what had happened.
- So, you will immediately pack your things and leave the city. I will say that you have recovered with my urgent report to the leadership of the Marne Corps and ...
Tan interrupted him without listening to his friend's proposal. - I'll perform tomorrow!
- What the devil !? Didn't you hear me now !?
- I heard everything perfectly. But I will stay and take this fight. All my life I have been trying to forget my past. But in truth, I always knew that I could not escape from it, it is part of me. I became what I became. You can't change me. And tomorrow this arrogant bastard will get his. And then ... Come what may.
***
He was nervous, putting on the last piece of his combat suit. These were the gloves Bert had given him. The morning was frosty. The air was damp and cold. Through the window opening, he looked at the sky, which was covered with clouds. They replaced each other and became darker and darker. - Yeah, not the best weather to start the holiday, Tan thought. - It looks like the rain is inevitable. But that didn't really bother him. He fought in much worse weather conditions. And now he was ready. But something did not give rest. He probably guessed that his fate would not remain the same anymore. He sat and thought about his mother. He remembered her last words, her farewell look, and a wild longing for her burst into his soul.
His thoughts were interrupted by a man in a long robe, apparently one of the organizers of the celebration. With great respect, he turned to Tan: "Mr. Mirra, it's time to get out." After these words, Tan stood up. He went over to the scabbard lying on the table and pulled out a sword. His comrade-in-arms, as always, was magnificent, sharpened and polished. Do not enter the circle yet, not yet entering the arena of the amphitheater, he heard the rumble of the crowd through the walls. Tan did not know how many people were there, but he guessed that a huge number of people would come to such an event. When the gigantic shutters opened in front of him, he suddenly remembered how General Swann had come to him a couple of hours ago. Before leaving for his seat on the balcony of the large arena, Swann hugged him, smiling slightly. However, Tan felt his close friend was nervous. In response, he also smiled and they both silently looked into each other's eyes for a while. Out of habit, he slapped Tan on the shoulder and said: - Don't hit him too hard, okay ?! Then he laughed and withdrew into the darkness of the corridor.
There he smiled, remembering this, and moved through the invisible wall that separated him from the crowd.
He walked to the center of the circle to an approving noise, looking around, and marveled at the scale of the amphitheater. It seemed to the spectators that a whole army had gathered. He saw that all the seats, both standing and sitting, were taken. Representatives of all classes were here. Common people were shouting, having fun, everyone was in high spirits. But suddenly, on the opposite side of the circle, the shutters of the doors also began to open. At that moment, Tan stopped hearing the crowd. In the depths of the opening that had opened, there was impenetrable darkness, and he saw Argos emerge from it. Dressed in all black, he approached our hero with a confident gait. Coming closer, Tan noticed that he had never seen such strange protection in his life. She was whole from foot to neck. Tan did not notice a single seam or a single rope on it. The material did not look like metal hidden under the skin, but rather like wet clay. The torso was made in the shape of a human body. The armor had thickening on the arms and legs. In the area of the ribs, a round sign with unknown runes and lines that crossed each other was distinguished. The only thing that differed from monolithic armor was the traditional Voton schenti.
Before each of his battles, he saw excitement and fear in the eyes of the enemy. Lack of confidence in their abilities. But now everything was different, it seemed to him that Argos was even slightly grinning and the corners of his lips were raised. Suddenly, a horn sounded shrilly throughout the amphitheater, announcing the beginning of a week-long celebration. The man who spoke into the large brass megaphone happily announced that King Virgil and Duke Erhard are now present in the large arena. After a speech of eulogy addressed to His Majesty, the Duke took the floor as he walked out to the edge of the royal balcony. He also began to congratulate the people and praise the world, then introduced the two participants in the battle, saying that, before the start of the celebration, a demonstration battle would be fought between two representatives of the once warring races. In which blows to the head with a sword are prohibited.
Tan had already taken a fighting stance, but then Erhard said: - And at the end of my speech, I am proud and with great pleasure, I present to you, our guest, King Orm. The doors to the royal box opened, and King Orme walked into the balcony, dressed in beautiful black robes with gold embroidery.
I was dumbfounded there. His mouth opened involuntarily. He just couldn't believe what he was seeing. Before his gaze, the face of the past has just appeared. Next to King Virgil, smiling, stood the one who killed the inhabitants of his village 30 years ago. Someone who is involved in the death of his parents. His face has aged slightly. Combat clothes changed to royal ones, but it was him. Orm sat down on a chair next to the king and the duke bellowed: "Let the battle begin!"...
***
I fight after the last words of Erhard, drums sounded like thunder. Their sound was picked up by the harp, and some kind of wind instruments.
Athanasius came to his senses only after an attempt by Argos to strike from above. Tan, withdrew from the line of attack, pushing the corps back, and now all his attention was riveted on Argos. Argos made a couple of preparatory actions and struck with lightning speed from the bottom up. Tan repulsed his sword with a backhand, but immediately the opponent tried to make a stab in the stomach, turning on its own axis. Although it was difficult, Tan left the line of attack, but Argos did not yield and continued to test the strength of Athanasius's defense. The fighters moved in so much music. The crowd rejoiced at the confrontation they saw. King Orm did not leave a smile, with pleasure, and King Virgil, on the contrary, was focused, because his fighter was still only defending himself.
Tan had sweat on his face, but his eye was still hard. His few counterattacks, choked with the speed of the movements of Argos. Never before had he found himself in such a difficult situation. To say that Tan was surprised is to say nothing. It seemed that all this time, in battle, in no way affected the prince. He was fresh, breathing evenly, unlike Tan, who was already greedily sucking in air through his nostrils. Argos' attacks were accompanied by a smirk on his haughty face.
But Tan was experienced and intelligent. He noticed even minor things. And once again, when Argos tried to strike with a jab in the area of his chest, Tan took the body to the side and with all his might struck in the right side of Argos, who was strengthened by the gloves presented to him. And what was his surprise that from the blow Argos did not even frown, and Tan felt as if he had smashed against the wall. - Your mother, what the hell was spinning in the head of our hero. What the hell is this armor made of? Tan managed to catch Argos several more times. He hit other parts of his body, but the effect was the same.
It seems that, and Argos did not meet a rival like Tan. It was evident that intermittent swallowing of air had replaced his calm, moderate breathing. Tan stared into his eyes, he stared back. Faint memories of the past appeared in Athanasius's head, and after the prince's rough attack with the sword and then the body, Tan fell to the ground, being on his knee. It was as if a horse had hit him. Her breath caught. Moisture and coldness settled in his lungs. Tan could not resist and had to clear his throat. Argos walked around him in circles, and no trace of his smile remained. Then, with a vicious grin, he raised his sword and slashed with superhuman speed, aiming at the head. The people gasped! No one would have been able to react. No one. But Tan, managed to give the body movement forward, and dived under the right arm of Argos, while pushing off the ground with his foot. He aimed his left fist at his jaw. Argos tried to dodge, but Athanasius was so quick that he was able to hit the prince and hit on a tangent. However, this was enough for Argos to lose his balance and fall, dropping his sword.
The rain began to drizzle. Athanasius glanced at the royal box. King Orme was darker than the night. There was such rage in his eyes that it seemed that he could kill at a distance. His gaze slowly moved from his son to his rival. The same damn look, Tan thought.
Argos noticed that Tan was completely infatuated with his father. He quickly raised his sword and struck as quickly as he could. Tan only managed to substitute his sword. The blow was so powerful that the vibration of the collision of the swords raced throughout the body. Then another blow, and another. On the final blow, Tan put his sword mechanically, without even seeing it. There was a clang, and Athanasius's sword shattered.
The music stopped. The entire amphitheater fell silent. There was silence. The rain began to pour in full force.
- Ufffff, gasped Argos, not taking his eyes off Thane. They looked at each other for a while, then Argos spoke: - Do you think this is the end? he said with hatred. - You're wrong! After these words, he threw his sword aside. “You disgraced me in front of my father. Get up motherfucker! Tan barely got up, leaning on his knee, seeing off his comrade on the last journey, the fragments of which were strewn across the circle.
He fell, no longer to the ground, but into the arms of darkness, and only the sound of erupting water from heaven connected him with reality!
Chapter 3 (New Friend)
Tan barely opened his eyes. The light was blinding to him. He grimaced in pain. And even the very contraction of the muscles on the face caused pain. He groaned slightly. How his face hurt.
Seeing that Tan woke up, the hospital's nurse immediately ran up to him and, putting her hands on her shoulders, quietly but affirmatively said: "You cannot get up, Mr. Mirra." You have a severe concussion, as well as a dislocated lower jaw, bruised ribs and kidneys. Tan made a heart-rending sound again.
- Where I am? He asked with a shiver in his swollen lips.
- You're in the hospital. You were brought here after the battle. Do you remember?
Tan was silent as if trying to remember what had happened in the past couple of days. He tried to collect all the books on the shelves in his library of the mind, which was smashed by Prince Argos. Then he sat up. His head was spinning.
“He’s stubborn,” said the sister, and forcibly pushed him back to the hospital bed. You only make it worse.
- I have to talk to General Swann, with the last of his strength Tan mumbled, after which he lost consciousness.

***
His father was sitting at a table in a huge oak armchair. On his right hand stood a servant, head bowed. And his back was guarded by two armed soldiers, the best of the best in their field. Dinner was already served with various dishes and treats. In the middle of the table there was a beautiful composition of berries and fruits, around which jugs of wine were dancing in an intricate pattern. Most of the candles were extinguished. Twilight has always been his father's companion. Flames leapt from a nearby fireplace, and the crackling of a burning tree echoed from the high walls of the castle. It was a hunting room with various trophies hanging on the wall. The muzzles of the slain beasts with glass eyes looked down on the arriving guest.
- Leave us! The king ordered and in one second they were left alone. He wiped his lips with a napkin, tossing it casually on the table. Then he got up and walked over to his son. Anger was what filled his eyes. Coming close and not looking away, he punched Argos' face with the back of his hand. From the blow on the prince's face, the skin turned red and a small bleeding scratch formed from the ring.
Argos opened his mouth, but before he could utter a word, Orm interrupted him: "I don't need any excuses from you now," he bellowed. Then he turned away and walked over to the fireplace, looking at the fire for a while.
-How could this have happened? without taking his eyes off the bewitching beauty of the flame, he asked.
- With all due respect, father, one way or another, I won! I showed them all what is the strongest race on earth!
- Anyway?! Turning slowly, he asked. An ordinary man, with ordinary weapons and ordinary protection, almost kicked your royal ass! You were wearing "Isar", your mother! And you dare to say something !?
- He is very well trained and strong. He's fast. I've never seen this. This warrior was in no way inferior to me.
- Oh, I didn't even notice! Orm said with undisguised irony, then turning away, he again drowned in his thoughts, absorbed in the sight of burning wood in the fireplace.
- Father?
- Yes?!
- Why did he look at you like that during the fight?
“That's interesting to me too,” said the king. Who are you, Athanasius Mirra? he asked the flame.
Argos was about to leave. But after a pause, he turned back to his father. “When will you be able to fully trust me, Father?
- I trust you.
- Then tell me what is in the tower of the west wing at the very top?
- Soon you will find out about everything, I promise you. Until then, that's all! You are free.

***
- Good morning, Athanasius!
- Hi, General! he mumbled barely audibly.
- You look lousy.
- I feel even worse.
- Hmm, who would have thought that Prince Argos is so good. The general sat down next to Athanasius's bed.
-“It's not just him,” Tan replied.
- What are you talking about?
- His armor ...
- And what happened to him?
- I hit him. He beat with all his might. No armor could stand that.
- What do you mean by that?
- I don’t know yet.
- What do you mean, “I don’t know yet” !? AND?! Swann got angry. All! The page is turned over. The story is over. He won, the general said with annoyance!
- It's him.
- Who is he"?
“King Orme, this is the bastard who slaughtered the people of my village.
- Stop it, Athanasius. You're delirious. You got it a lot, it's understandable, but you can't ...
- General! Tan interrupted him. This face comes to me in dreams for 30 years. I know him by heart and will not confuse nickname with anyone else. It's him!
- Your mother! Swann said helplessly, lowering his eyes to the floor. And after a few seconds he said: Don't tell anyone about this, you hear! Nobody should know about our speech. The general whispered in a conspiratorial tone. Your words undermine twenty years of peace between our states, you understand that ?! - Rest for now. I need to consult.

***
Tan woke up as usual in the morning. There had been no news from Swann for a couple of days. During this time, his body got stronger. As the hospital attendants said, good heredity, everything heals quickly like a dog. However, the Tan was still moving with caution, without sudden movements. The bruised ribs made themselves felt. He was in a separate room. General Swann took care of this, therefore, the nightmares that tormented his soul at night and his early awakening did not disturb anyone. Approaching the window opening and opening it, he looked at the sleeping city. All these days, only one thought occupied his head: - Retribution will find everyone.
At that moment, he heard someone sneak up to the door of his room. Athanasius, despite the pain, like a cat, silently approached the door and stood next to it, pressing himself against the wall. The door opened slightly and a figure of a man in a dark cloak and a hood on his head entered the room. Without hesitation, he rushed at him, grabbing his clothes, but immediately got a trip and they both fell to the floor. The hood fell off my head. Beneath him was the same maid from the duke's house.
- You?! Athanasius was surprised. What are you doing here!?
- They want to talk to you. This is urgent. She answered with excitement in her voice.
- About what!? Who are you? What's going on here?
After a little delay, she said with regret: - General Swann is dead.
He did not immediately understand the meaning of her words. - What?
- My name is Una, and we have no time. They're coming for you!
And as soon as she uttered these words, suddenly they heard the clatter of hooves and a rude male speech outside the window. Athanasius quietly crept to the window and, looking out of the corner, began to inspect the area near the hospital. There were ten well-equipped fighters. Their eldest waved his arms and showed various directions, where one soldier later fled. With the others, he went to the hospital entrance.
Tan realized that most likely the girl was not joking, and if this was not an idiotic coincidence, he was the target of the soldiers.
- Why do they need me?
“While I’m here to explain to you, they will both capture us.
Tan could not help but agree with this statement. He walked quickly to the corner where his clothes lay. Unfortunately, the combat uniforms were sent to Pisky Efa, which Athanasius remembered with annoyance. Therefore, he put on his pants and boots, put on a white woolen shirt and left the room. Una followed him. In the corridor below one could already hear the noise and clatter of soldiers' boots. He immediately grabbed her by the forearm, pulling her towards the door of his room. Running back, he slammed the door, forcing it with a heavy wooden cabinet. Then he jumped to the window and looked down. Everything was quiet. They were on the second floor, so it was not difficult for them to go downstairs.
As he descended, he appreciated how cleverly Unya had succeeded. It was lucky that there was an apple orchard on the hospital grounds, and they could sneak from tree to tree unnoticed. Suddenly, Athanasius grabbed Una by the shoulders and pulled him over, hiding behind a tree. As it turned out, one of the soldiers was on duty in the corner of the building. Tan's brain began to actively seek a solution to the problem, but what happened next caught him by surprise. Una threw off his hands and with the words "Help" rushed towards the guards.
- That devil, thought Tan, gritting his teeth.
Then he heard a noise and, looking out from behind a tree, saw a soldier lying on the ground. Athanasius looked at her in surprise, but she just grinned.
- Why are you frozen? Hurry!
He didn't need to repeat it twice. He ran up to the guy who was lying on the ground and picked up his sword, which he had already managed to take out after hearing Una's cry. Apparently she hit him from behind, smart ...
She dived into a narrow street, Tan behind her. But they had already been spotted, and the pursuit began. They ran along the ragged walls of houses and debris lying along the road. Rats scattered in different directions at the sight of strangers at such an early hour. Following this, they heard the sound of whistles, signaling troublemakers. Tan knew that reinforcements would now be arriving in this area and that it was necessary to get out of it as soon as possible. The side was very sore, his chest was squeezing, his strength was leaving him. He had to stop.
“We need to hide,” he said.
- No, we need to run and quickly, said Una.
“We won't have time to run a couple of streets before they spot us, believe me,” he said with a breath in his voice.
- What to do?! There was excitement in her eyes.
He looked around, and suddenly realized that the houses around them were familiar to him. His feet were already walking along this cobbled street, and his nose breathed in the local smell.

***
The door flew open, and the first thing Athanasius saw was a long and well-polished sword.
- Hi Byrd! Pronounced Tan.
But the interlocutor was silent and only looked at him with an incredulous look.
- We have nowhere else to go, I'm sorry.
After a little hesitation, he fully opened the door, with a mute gesture, inviting them to enter. They immediately ran into the house.
Nothing has changed in the room since his last visit. Tan leaned against the wall to keep from falling. As soon as he caught his breath, he raised his head and, looking at Byrd, said: - Thank you. Most likely, you saved our lives.
Without answering, Byrd went into another room and after a while returned with two mugs of water in his hands, somewhere hiding his sword.
After drinking greedily, Tan wiped the cold water droplets from his lips with his sleeve.
- And so, maybe you can finally explain what the hell is going on here ?! Tan turned to Una. - Why did these soldiers need me? What are they? What about General Swann?
- These are the duke's men! They received an order to bring you to him, and if this fails, then kill.
“You’re also working for him, right?
- I got a job as a servant in his estate to watch and observe.
- For Erhard?
- Behind the origin of the birth of a new union! Extremely powerful. A union that will drown the earth in blood, and here you and I cannot prevent this.
- What happened to the general? Tan asked quietly.
- Erhard killed him. The general arrived late at night to the duke, alone. I overheard their conversation. He argued that King Orme is not a benefactor, as he presents himself, but the instigator of that bloody war, the end of which we all celebrate. Erhard tried to explain to him that it was simply impossible, but Swann stood his ground. He hesitated, she continued to tell: - Then he told him your story and that he trusts you as himself, and if Erhard does not want to hear, then perhaps the other members of the council will listen to him. With these owls, he signed both you and himself a death warrant. After that, the general turned away to leave, but the duke thrust a knife into his neck.
- So you just stood there and watched it ?! He turned to her with disgust.
- Trust me, if I could do something, I would do it. His house is packed with soldiers. If I tried, I would have overtaken to take into account the general, and you would have lived a little longer.
He understood this. He also understood that it was he who was to blame for the death of his closest friend, who was only trying to do the right thing by entering into open conflict with the duke. From what a real storm broke out in Tan's soul, out of powerlessness, anger and incredible melancholy. Una saw it in his eyes. She went to Athanasius, placing her mug, with half-drunk water, next to him. She gently laid her hand on his shoulder and said quietly: “Retribution will find everyone. At that moment, a noise was heard outside the door. Bert ran to the door, opening it slightly and peering into the opening. Cursing from what he saw, he immediately closed it back. Turning towards Tana and Una, he said:
- Bastards are searching houses! Faster here. He drew back the carpet on the floor. Under it was a wooden hatch cover leading to the cellar. - Get in and see yourself quiet.
From the chase, Tan's side hurt so much that he barely went downstairs. Una thanked old man Bert in a whisper and followed Tan into the cellar.
Suddenly the door rattled, in a tone that could not be delayed. For some time, Bert needed to lay the carpet back, after which he obediently obeyed the soldiers.
From below, through the cracks between the boards, it was difficult to see anything. But by the shadows and voices, Tan determined that four people had entered the house.
- How can I be of help to the guards of His Majesty and our peace, Byrd said with mock courtesy.
- We are looking for fugitive killers who are hiding in nearby houses, said one of the soldiers, and immediately proceeded to inspect the room. Most likely an officer, Tan thought.
- I did not see anyone, sir, heard Tan Byrd's voice.
- Do you live alone? He continued.
- Yes, sir, one! It's just me in the house!
Silence fell again, broken only by the steps of the officer. Then he stopped abruptly and after a while asked: - Where are these mugs of water?
Tan and Una looked at each other and held their breath ...
- Sir, I am a sewing company, and these circles are left after yesterday's clients, Bert said.
Then, the officer took one of the mugs, brought it to his nose, inhaled, and then sipped it.
- Arrest him! Search the house, quickly!
After his orders, the officer turned to the old man and said through clenched teeth: - Where are they?
- Who? Bert was indignant.
- You think I'm an idiot ?! The water in the mug is icy. You just poured it. Answer me or I'll rip your belly open! The officer threatened. You will still be alive for a while, and then I will feed you your guts, if you don’t tell me everything I want to know!
The old man was held by two, one more began to run around the rooms and examine them. Tan knew he needed help, but he was useless now. Due to injury, his defense would simply not be effective.
- I'm losing my patience, old man! The sound of steel stripping was heard. Then Bert said, “I'm sorry gentlemen, really sorry.
And then there was a crash from the fall of the body to the floor, fuss, fuss, screams and moans from incredible pain began. Blows, falls, more bumps.
It was unbearable for Athanasius to sit and watch the murder of the man who had just saved his life. Realizing that this was most likely the end, he abruptly got up, climbed the steps and tried to open the cellar!
- What are you doing? Una asked in a whisper.
The lid was latched on the back. The fight from above continued, and this indicated that Bert was still alive. With a growl, the Tan began to beat the wooden hatch with his elbow. The boards cracked, but didn't give in. Once again, he tried to strike, but stumbled and fell, rolling down the stairs to the ground. Suddenly he realized that the fussing above had stopped. - I didn't have time, it was spinning in his head. They heard the rug pull back. Then Tan realized that he had given away their location while trying to get out. The lock opened and light burst into the dark closet. To his great surprise, Bert's face was looking at him. He was bleeding from his nose and mouth.
- Come up. He said in a tired voice.
Tan and Una exchanged glances. Then she stood up abruptly and helped Athanasius to his feet. All four soldiers were lying on the floor, some of them no longer breathing. Bert, like the room, was covered in their blood. Athanasius looked around, then his gaze fell on the old man.
- Who are you?
- My name is Grubert Ebiner.
Tan's mouth fell open in surprise. Wait a minute, that same Grubert Ebiner? War hero?
- He's the one, the old man croaked. But after reconciliation, they tried to forget everything that reminded of the war, including me. But damn it, it's nice to flex your fists sometimes. He smiled and immediately his legs buckled. Athanasius managed to catch him and slowly put him on the floor.
Tan's hand holding his back was covered in blood. Grubert's clothes were pulled up and on the back, under the clothes there was a puncture wound, from which blood flowed along with air bubbles.
“A lung pierced,” Athanasius told him in despair. Una began to say that he urgently needed to be taken to the hospital, but Grubert said: “It's all over for me, but I don't regret anything. In my heart I felt that I had to help you. In the back room there is an old tapestry on the wall, remove it, behind it there will be a door to a secret room. - Here, this is for you! Byrd ripped the chain with a small key from his neck and handed it to Athanasius. There you will find everything you need, good luck to both of you. After that, he peacefully closed his eyes that will never open again. Silence fell ...
He swallowed hard, and then put his right hand to his chest, paying the last tribute to the great man. Then he got up and walked with a determined gait to the back room, where Grubert pointed. On the opposite wall from the entrance hung an antique tapestry depicting a battle scene. Tearing off the canvas, a small but thick metal door appeared before his eyes. He slipped the key into his mask and turned it surprisingly gently. Outside the door, sheer darkness reigned. Tan took the oil lamp and went inside. Una followed him carefully. When the light lit up the contents of the room, she said with undisguised surprise: - Yes, this can arm a whole squad.
The weapons room appeared before their eyes. On the walls and on the floor were placed: weapons, armor and shields, skillfully made, but wrapped in a large layer of dust. In the center of this room was a stone plinth. On it were: a brigantine, bracers and a scabbard with a sword. They were all done in the same style with lions. The way these items were made, it could be concluded that a lot of money was spent on their creation. “With gratitude from the king!” Read the inscription on the bronze tablet. They vegetated for a long time in this pitch darkness.
But their dream was over!

***
Putting on the armor of Grubert, he asked Unu to tighten the brigantine from the sides.
- You said that they want to talk to me?
- Right.
- Who?
- Master of the Order of the Children of the Midnight Star and one of the initiates.
- Initiates? Into what?
- Let's just say, after talking with him, your world will not be the same.
- Hmm, we'll see.
They both donned gray hooded capes and left the house.
Of all the abundance of weapons, Una took only a dagger with her.
Common people have already started pouring out into the streets. There were no soldiers in the vicinity, which could neither please.
- Where is your master waiting for us?
- In a place called Arna. North of Anamut.
- Long away?
- Two days' journey.
Tan said indignantly in two. - Out of the question.
- Why?
“I must avenge General Swann and Grubert.
- You still have such an opportunity. But first, you must speak to the master.
- What for?
- Because he will open your eyes! It is important!

***
When they entered, Tan could not even imagine that the old, shabby barn, from the inside, would look pretty passable.
- This is the place, in case of emergency, if there is an urgent need to get out of the city, said Una. She pushed the old chair away from the corner of the shed and began to tear the planks off the floor. When she finished, she reached into the niche that had formed and took out a bag of coins.
- And you are very organized!
- Thank you, my father taught me everything. And suddenly she met his gaze. There was silence. Embarrassed, Una lowered her eyes and continued: - I will go, arrange for the horses and a safe exit from the city, buy provisions and scout out the situation, while you lie down and rest. You will need strength.
Tan didn't mind. Moreover, most likely, a paper with his physiognomy and a sum of remuneration is already hanging on every pillar and house, and the herald is competing in eloquence to make him the last bastard. But instead of a bed, he sat down on a chair, placing it opposite the entrance and placing the scabbard with the sword on his lap. Then he closed his eyes. Una opened the door to get out, but then Atanasius said: - Thank you.
She stopped and looked at him. His eyes were still closed. Smiling, Una left, closing the door behind her and hanging the padlock.

***
He woke up, chilled to the bone. The sun did not break through the cracks between the boards, which meant it was night, Tan thought. Rising from the chair, he caught himself thinking that the pain in his side had practically passed, and he could move without much discomfort. But Una's absence worried him. He wildly wanted to eat, his stomach "rumbled" with displeasure. Tan lit a candle and tried to find food, but to no avail. But I found an excellent whetstone on the shelf. Faced with defeat, he decided to pass the time by sharpening his sword. The sword was glorious, Ancalite steel, a comfortable handle, perfectly balanced, it lay in the hand like a native.
On the street I heard someone talking and laughing. A group of people was approaching the barn. Athanasius abruptly stopped his work and began to listen attentively to what was happening on the street.
- Ahahahahahaha, if she told the truth, ahahahahahaha, I will make him kiss my boots! Said a rough voice.
- No, no, if he is really there, then I will lead him through the streets absolutely naked, ahahahahaha! - said a voice belonging to a young guy.
- Enough, you fools, be more serious - said the third. I doubt that he is sitting locked in a shed, waiting to be captured. She just gave herself some time. But at least we can profit from what is inside. Considering what she had with her, I hope she hid much more here.
“So it seems to be here,” said a gruff voice.
- It seems, answered the third. - Yunas, open the door.
- Yes! the guy said enthusiastically.
Tan, stepped back and hid behind an old canopy hanging on the wall.
A few seconds later three men entered the barn. They were the guards of the city gates. They had characteristic stripes on the right sleeve in the form of two towers. The one that was in charge was without armor at all.
- Which was required to prove, he said. The girl deceived us. Oh, and the boss won't like it. We do not waste time and get to work.
- Heh, a man with a thick beard on his face and a rough voice laughed, who began to rummage on a wooden shelf nailed to the wall. “I think she’ll lose another finger for that, and then Hort will give her to us.” Here I will show her a real man, he said with a laudatory smile.
After these words, his head split in two. Blood and brains splashed in all directions. It collapsed silently, taking the wooden shelf with it. The other two did not even have time to understand what happened. Athanasius trotted across the barn, knocking out the teeth of the young guy along the way with a blow of his hand. In two jumps, he was next to the third. He tried to remove the sword from its scabbard, but the sharp steel severed his hand and dug deeply to the side, cutting the body to the spine. He let out a shrill cry and immediately fell down dead. Tan turned and walked slowly towards the guy who was on all fours. His whole face was covered in blood. The pupils were dilated, and the eyes were chaotically looking for salvation.
- Where's she? growled Tan.
The guy's jaw was broken and his teeth were knocked out. He explained with difficulty that she was being held in custody at the northern gate of the city.
- How many Soldiers are there?
He showed seven fingers. Then he received another blow to the face, from which he lost consciousness. Tan quickly put on a gray hooded cloak and walked out.

***
It was raining outside the window ...
- Well, well, well, Hort said affectionately, stroking Unu's head.
Her face was smashed, her clothes were torn and stained with blood. She pressed her hands chained to her chest. On the left, part of the little finger was cut off.
“If you told the truth and my guys bring him here, I promise I won't hurt you anymore. But for cutting one of the guards, I'm afraid I will have to hand you over to the law. However, if you cheated, and he is not there, then I am afraid that this night will seem to you the longest in your life. Here, drink! and he threw a glass of water in Unya's face. “In general, you are very beautiful,” said Hort. Then he thought a little and turned to his guard, who was also in the room and was working on the cut on his leg: - Go out and see that no one comes in, and for one thing, look, why the hell are these mediocrities making so much noise there. He, in turn, obediently got up and hobbled to the door. As the door closed, Hort walked over to the decanter of wine. Without haste, he poured himself a mug, and after draining it in one gulp, he began to unfasten the belt on his pants. “You know, I’ll probably do you a favor. For what you have done, you will be put in prison, and for a long time you will not see a man who can please you. But luckily for you, I'm ready to help you with this, he slowly moved towards her, going behind her. “It’s in your best interest to be good. After these words, he tore her clothes, exposing the delicate skin on her back.
At that moment the door banged.
“Damn it, I told you not to bother me!
But they continued to knock on the door.
- Well, that's it, someone is going to get it right now! Hort said irritatedly as he fastened his belt. As soon as he opened the door, he received a crushing blow to the bridge of his nose, from which he threw his hands up and fell flat on his back. He died even before his body touched the floor.
Una looked up, but the picture floated before her eyes. She saw a silhouette approaching her. Suddenly she felt a wet cloth covering her bare back.
- Here are the bastards, said a familiar voice and Una breathed a sigh of relief. Hold on to my neck, Tan said. After that, exhausted, he lifted her in his arms and carried her to the exit. The bodies of dead soldiers lay everywhere, but she did not notice it. Una only looked at him.
It was raining outside the window ...
Chapter 4 (Renegade)
The sun blinded her eyes. When she woke up, she caught a cool breath of wind with her nose. Una was riding a horse, leaning her elbows on something solid, and at first did not understand where she was. She jerked violently.
- Hush, Tan muttered, displeased with the disturbance of the calm rhythm of movement. - How do you feel?
She glanced at him, then at the left hand, which had been finished and bandaged. The jaw ached. Dried drops of blood tickled in my nose.
-Things are good! Where are we?
“We're going north,” he said quietly. You are hungry?
- Damn!
- That is great! I also need a little rest. It is very difficult to move in the rain at night.
They turned from a forest path to a small edge, in the center of which a centuries-old tree spread its branches.
“I think this is a great place,” he said with a slight smile. Then he jumped off his horse and helped Una down. Athanasius walked over to the second horse, which was tied behind. He took off a couple of sacks and went with them to the tree. Putting them down, he noticed that Una did not move from her place and guiltily stood there where he had just put her. He exhaled heavily, took a waterskin out of the bag, and walked over to her. - I bet you are thirsty, hold! holding it out to Unya. She took and hugged him to her chest.
- Forgive me! She said.
- For what?
“For telling them where are you?
- Listen, Tan began, if you were silent, they would continue to cut off your body parts. And in the end, you would still tell them everything. Sooner or later, everyone tells. This is the point, just some people do not have enough intelligence to understand this at the very beginning. But from the way you looked, I can conclude that you held yourself with dignity. He came closer to her. - Trust me, I told a lot. I saw huge and stern men who broke like chips. You are great and you have nothing to apologize for.
She burst into tears as she hugged him. He in turn tried to comfort her and gently ran his hand through her hair.
- And thanks for coming for me!
- Well, that's enough! We don't have much time! I suppose they have already gone after us. Although, we were lucky with the weather and they will not be able to attack the trail. They will have to send many people in different directions to find us. Therefore, we can afford a little rest. So, let's see what the server gate guard so kindly lent us.
Athanasius gathered everything in a hurry, knowing that he would hardly be able to acquire provisions along the way. In addition, he understood that in order to hide his tracks, he would have to go throughout the night. But he still managed to take something useful. From the bag he took out: a piece of bacon, blood sausage, crackers, some vegetables, and a bottle of wine.
To dry his clothes a little and keep warm, Tan decided to light a fire! He collected the fallen dry branches, took out from his bosom a small leather bag, in which lay: a chair, a little flint and dry rags. And after a very short time, they were enjoying the warmth emitted by the burning tree.
- And what is this order? What did you call him? He asked, simultaneously thrusting his dagger into the fire.
- Children of the Midnight Star. It has been calculating since ancient times and is intended for one purpose only.
- What is it?
She looked at him closely. “I have vowed never to divulge ancient knowledge. The only person who can reveal it to you is the master of the order.
- What is his name?
- His name is hidden from outsiders!
“Actually, I was hoping that during these days on the road, you would enlighten me, what the hell is going on here?
- Sorry but no!
- And if I don't want to?
- What don't you want?
“Maybe I don’t want to know anything! Maybe I don't need all this!
- Do you want the truth? Raising her voice in irritation, Una asked.
- This is what I want from you!
- Then listen to Athanasius Mirra! I have followed Prince Argos for years. He often demonstrates his superiority. I saw dozens of tournaments in which he participated. Not a single person before you could hold out against him. He destroyed anyone who dared to challenge him in seconds. And then I saw your battle and I couldn't believe my eyes. You were in no way inferior to him, despite his secret!
- What secret?
- His superhuman strength and speed. But as I said, the master will tell you about everything, if you want to.
- Pfff, Tan snorted, picking his dagger in the fire.
- You are special Athanasius!
- Okay, let's take a look at your Master. But before we go, we need to do something.
- What? Una asked in surprise.
Tan took out a red-hot dagger from the fire, - "We must cauterize the wound!"

***
It was getting dark and on the horizon the lights of the native village already appeared. Rare houses with brown clay roofs stretch across a small lake along the shore. Oil lamps burned in the windows, and smoke from chimneys spread along the slope of the wooded mountains. She smiled involuntarily. But suddenly she realized that her heart was out of place. During these days she became very used to Athanasius. It was calm and reliable with him as with anyone. She enjoyed spending time with Tan. She did not know why the master needed a conversation with him, and this worried her very much.
“We got there,” she said happily.
- A beautiful place, I pay tribute to the founders of this village, they knew how to choose beautiful places.
“Several hundred years ago, all the inhabitants of this village were members of the order. But time is merciless. People died, and others came to their place, who did not care about anything but themselves. Therefore, now, the monastery of the order is a small stone house located at the base of the rock.
Walking along the road, Tan noticed several wooden docks for fishing boats. He remembered Swann taking him on a fishing trip. How he taught the intricacies of fishing for roach. He never told him this, but Athanasius considered him his father, his brother, his friend.
- I swear to you, the one who was involved in your death will regret it, with every part of his body! Tan spoke in his mind.
- What are you thinking about? Una asked.
- About nothing, Tan snapped. And this village is not so easy to find, I tell you.
- So it was conceived, smiling, said Una.
They walked along the road along all the houses. Passing by, Tan was touched by the beautiful courtyards. Children's wooden swing. Cozy gazebos. All that had been taken away from him so unceremoniously. Suddenly, the houses along the edges of the road ended, and trees and bushes took their place. Then the road turned to the right, and went a little higher towards the mountains. Imperceptibly, the road turned into a path that ends at the threshold of a one-story stone house. One of its walls was covered with moss. Once a good oak door had crumbled, and through its crack one could see the contents of the house. Next to him, a dovecote was installed on a felled tree trunk, which was clearly watched and looked after.
- I understand that your order is going through hard times? Tan sarcastically addressed Unya.
- It used to be better, shrugging her shoulders, said Una. She walked over to the flower pot next to the entrance. She pushed it aside, removed the tiles underneath, revealing a small niche in which the key lay.
When Tan crossed the threshold, doubts crept into him as to the veracity of Una's stories. Because with an unarmed look it was clear that the house was not inhabited. Cobwebs and dust were everywhere.
-“Follow me,” she said in an orderly tone.
Tan looked at her sternly, raising one eyebrow.
- I wanted to say, please.
He grimaced, looked up, but obeyed.
Together they entered a small room with no windows, and, in principle, nothing at all.
- So what's next? Tan spoke with his arms outstretched.
Una went to the wall, which was fitted with opaque black glass. Only now, when my eyes got used to the darkness, I noticed that the walls of the room were not made of stone.
- Is that metal?
Una didn’t say anything, just put her hand to the glass. Suddenly the entire floor began to slowly sink into the ground.
- What's happening? Tan asked with an anxious voice.
“You are on the verge of epiphany,” said Una proudly.

***
They went down the slope. The metal walls were replaced by rocks, in which unusual dim bloody lamps glowed. With open eyes he looked around and at his feet. His surprise knew no bounds. The platform sank lower and lower.
- What it is?
- This is a hoisting machine.
- I've never seen this. Who made it?
- People, holding back a smile, she answered. She liked to see the surprise on Athanasius's face.
“This is some kind of clever mechanism based on counterweights,” Tan reasoned aloud. I'm right? He asked smiling. True, I don't see any guides ...
Una, could not help but smile back, shaking her head as a sign that he was wrong. They stopped as suddenly as they started. The platform went straight into the floor, and if Tan didn’t know it could move, he would never have found it. Turning around, a small tunnel made entirely of metal stood in front of his gaze. Metal rods were woven into even squares under their feet, under which were laid some objects that looked like ropes. On all sides, below and above, the same dim lamps were installed. Evenly, metal corners protruded from the wall, dividing them into even segments. The corridor rested against a metal wall. There were no doors to enter another room. He walked slowly, running his hands along the walls, as if not believing what was happening. When they hit the wall, Tan saw an inscription in an ancient language. Una put her hand to the dark glass again. At the same second, the wall split into two equal parts, which parted to the sides, disappearing into the side walls. Their thickness was incredibly large, not less than a meter. She entered first, but Tan was in no hurry to cross the threshold. He stood and examined them in disbelief. Then he turned to Una.
- What it is? Magic?
- Technology. But for you now it's the same thing.
He reluctantly went inside, after which the door closed. Suddenly he heard a rumble and felt a gust of wind. Tan immediately grabbed the hilt of the sword, puzzled by what was happening. But Una stopped him by holding her wrist.
- Sorry, I completely forgot to say, this is a mandatory procedure to go inside.
There was intense excitement in his eyes. Suddenly, everything stopped and the second wall, which followed, also parted to the sides. Athanasius was silent. He looked at what opened to his eyes. Then he turned, looked at Una, and again into the open doorway.
- This must be a dream ...

***
He gazed at a small town enveloped in a metal dome. Square metal rooms were placed flat along the central road. On the edge was a small reservoir. The top was littered with thousands of lamps that dimly illuminated all spaces. Even from afar, it was clear that most of the town was abandoned. Only a few houses had lighting.
- Athanasius, follow me! Just watch your step.
They descended the perfectly level steps. Then we turned left. As he passed the buildings, Tan realized that they were not made of metal. The material was more like a perfectly hewn and polished granite, which shimmered in the rays of light like a precious metal. They came to the largest building in this town. The principle of opening the doors was the same as when entering. As soon as they entered, Una said:
- Light!
Immediately, the entire room was lit up with bright white lighting. He was painfully blinding, and Tan had to cover his eyes with his hand. But after a moment his eyes got used to it, and he was able to look around.
- Hi DARA.
- Greetings, Dr. Unalia Royce! A female voice spoke.
- Who is speaking? he panicked.
- Athanasius, whatever you see here will not harm you, relax. Your initiation has already begun. You will find out soon enough.
- Where is my father?
- As always in the laboratory, said a female voice. After that, a small niche formed in the wall, which opened up a small room.
- Let's go quickly, she turned to Tan, I can't wait to introduce you. She took his hand and together they entered him. The wall closed and Tan felt his body rise.
- Who are you talking to? Athanasius said in a whisper, fearing that a mysterious stranger would hear their conversation.
- Her name is DARA.
- Is this your deity?
- What are you, no! Una laughed, it's artificial intelligence helping us. It contains the entire array of human knowledge. It was created by our ancestors, thousands of years ago.
- Ah, well, yes, I thought so, Tan said with a serious air to look like a fool.
Una smiled because she knew he didn't understand anything. - DARA is more like an older sister to me. She knows everything and helps, and she is also a big bore, Unalia whispered in Atanasius's ear.
- And she also knows how to reproduce human speech, only by the facial expressions of her lips, said a voice.
“Okay, don’t grumble. The lab is on the top floor, the elevator will be faster, she explained.
In a couple of minutes they were upstairs. The first thing Tan noticed after the walls parted was the ceiling, paved with luminous figures resembling elongated squares. In the center was a flat disk, which had an incomprehensible pattern in the form of intertwining luminous lines, which hung in the air. Suddenly everything went out, but after a split second the light was restored. The doors in the opposite wall opened and a man in a white suit entered the room. Thin discs were attached to his temples, from which light passed in an arc around the head at eye level, in which unknown figures and runes were displayed. Seeing Una, he immediately ran up to her and hugged her tightly.
“Dad, how I missed you,” she said with a tremor in her voice.
- My dear, what have they done to you ?! he asked, seeing the bruises on his face and the bandaged hand, then pressed it tightly to him again.
- Dad, meet me, this is the same Atanasius Mirra, about whom I wrote to you. He saved my life.
- Glad to see you, said the man sincerely, holding out his hand. My name is Werner Royce.
“She actually saved me by shaking my hand,” Tan replied.
- I guess you have a lot of questions. But, unfortunately, we have little time, therefore, I propose to bring you up to date as soon as possible.

***
Werner walked over to the table, which was floating above the floor. I passed my hand, and right there in the air, the light painted a lot of round objects revolving around the fireball.
“Athanasius, I understand that it will take time to comprehend everything that I am going to tell you about. It will be difficult to understand and you will have a lot of questions. But still try to focus.
Tan only slightly raised his eyebrows.
- This is a model of our solar system. The sun is a star in a galaxy called the Milky Way. A galaxy is a cluster of billions of stars similar and not similar to our sun. A thermonuclear reaction takes place in the sun, converting hydrogen particles into helium, resulting in the generation of solar radiation. In simple terms, it gives us warmth and is necessary for the process of photosynthesis, thanks to which plants produce oxygen with the help of which we breathe. Look, this planet has the name "Earth" and you and I live on it, pointing our finger at a blue ball hanging in the air. - She is the third from the sun. Once millions of years ago, on Earth, Mars is the fourth planet from the sun and on Phaeton, a planet that does not exist now, but its fragments are still in orbit between Mars and Jupiter, at one time period simultaneously on all three planets intelligent life was born. We do not have enough knowledge about those ancient times. The information appears before us in the form of scraps of pages from the book, but we know that for this we must thank the beings who flew into our solar system from other worlds. Except as "Gods" they cannot be called. They possessed technologies that we never dreamed of, that we do not even know about, to this day. Using the biomaterial of these planets, they created their own kind. Of course, on all three planets, these creatures were different from each other. This is due to the elements prevailing on this or that planet, as well as its physical conditions, but still there was a huge similarity between them. The gods created us to facilitate their labor, while mining the planets, which they needed for the functioning of their technologies. But at the same time they taught us: language, writing, agriculture, mathematics, construction, gave knowledge about the world around us. Unlike us, they lived for hundreds of thousands of years, and therefore, they were infinitely wise and inquisitive. They were pioneers, so they decided to go further into the vastness of space. But the Gods noticed that the creatures they created have an inexplicable desire for destruction and power. Then they decided to leave on each planet three representatives of their race, to control people and reign for their own safety. The gods said that they would return and endow people with the knowledge they received about the universe. Unfortunately, we do not know when this should happen. Also, we do not know for certain what happened next, and because of what it all started, but there was a battle between the remaining gods. As a result, the planet Phaethon was completely destroyed. And from the face of Mars all living things were demolished, from which it turned into a lifeless freezing desert, losing its precious atmosphere, so important for life. Earth is more fortunate than other planets. She paid the lowest price. The "Ice Age" began on the earth, which hid in the ice the continent in which the abode of the gods was located for many millions of years. Most of the living creatures on earth have died, including the gods. Survivors, our ancestors were divided into two clans, later turning into Atlanteans and Hyperboreans. They can be called second generation people. They lived in peace and harmony with each other. Both races flourished. The remaining knowledge and technology allowed them to settle again on the earth, giving rise to new civilizations on the remains of the former world. Approximately seventeen thousand years ago, the ice age passed its peak and the reverse process began, which was also intensified by the fall of a celestial body in the region of North America. Which caused numerous cataclysms. Melting glaciers have raised sea levels. A worldwide flood occurred on the planet, as a result of which all coastal cities, which were all the largest centers at that time, were flooded. These events were the catalyst for the death of the Atlanteans and Hyperboreans as a species, but contributed to the birth of a new humanity. A small group of Atlanteans, having collected all that they had in time, landed on the island of Dilmun. Which became the starting point for people of the third generation. Sumerian, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and then Harappan and Chavin civilizations began to inhabit the lands of our planet. But about three and a half thousand years ago, human greed and cruelty reached its climax. The earth has turned into a battlefield for super powers. Our order was able to discern the inevitability of the conflict and implemented a project called "Bright Future". This bunker has become a haven for us for thousands of years. But gradually we began to come to the surface, having learned that some representatives of humanity still managed to survive in these harsh conditions. Gradually people began to form tribes, then villages, cities and countries. Time is cyclical. Humanity always develops according to the same scenario. So the time for the "Bright Future" has come to an end. You must have noticed the voltage drops. The light goes out, then reappears. After a couple of months, he does not wake up at all.
- How? fear crept into Una's voice.
- I said that it will be so, dear, but did not expect that so soon. Then Werner turned to Tan again:
“But as it turned out, our gods had a secret. The secret of great knowledge and longevity. Matter, or more correctly, the energy with which they could travel through space and time. Its name was consigned to oblivion. And, nevertheless, by all indicators, from the moment of their arrival on our planet, this substance has never left it.
“So millions of years have passed? How can it exist now? interrupted by Athanasius.
- It is eternal. Arriving, from where there is no concept of time. We don't know how the gods got it. We do not know what it looks like and in what form it exists on earth. However, we have an estimated location where it might be.
- Where? snuggling closer to Werner, asked Athanasius.
- Mister Mirra, this knowledge is too expensive. Unfortunately, King Orme somehow found out about him. And this, at the moment, is the main mystery. There is some kind of power in opposition to ours, knowledge and wisdom that is not inferior to us. Understand that all Orm's actions, all events until today led him to seize information about the location of this mysterious substance. However, there is another secret. It, among other things, can interact with a living organism, but only if there is a certain "gene" in the DNA, which is passed from generation to generation. So, when the gods created us, they did everything possible so that the specified gene would be absent in us. However, one percent of people still inherited this gene. Unalia is its bearer.
- And what will happen if a person who does not have the specified gene interacts with him? Tan asked.
- It is assumed that this human individual will be absorbed by him.
- I.e?
“You will die Athanasius.
- I see, but why would Orm then?
“He may not know about it, but we cannot risk it. If this substance falls into the wrong hands. Whole Worlds can be destroyed. Even this war against Meinard, started by Orm only in order to get to the gold plate stored in the palace of King Hawk. This table indicates a place in the mountains, or rather a cave, in which the "Wall of Wisdom" is located. According to legend, it describes the location of the ancient substance.
“We have to get to him before Orma,” Una said.
- What are you asking me? Athanasius turned to Werner and Una.
“It is no coincidence that you appeared at the very moment when King Orm practically obtained the knowledge to start the active phase of the search. After I received a letter from my daughter describing your fight with Argos. I realized that you are exactly who we need. I ask you to come with us and help in the search.
- If you tell me this story in the tavern, I would call you crazy. But seeing all these miracles before my eyes, I have no doubts about the sincerity of your words. All my life, I have asked myself the same question: - Why me? Why did I stay alive from all the inhabitants of my village? Hmm, maybe I'll get these answers if I help you, said Athanasius, turning his head towards Una.
- Great, thanks Athanasius! Werner said with relief. I'll tell you the rest on the way.
- So where are we going?
- To knowledge, my friend.
Chapter 5 (Retribution)

- Where exactly are we going? started Tan.
- We are interested in the caves around which the Paro Taksang monastery was built. These are the Himalayan mountains, the former kingdom of Bhutan. It is located east of where we are now. Even in ancient times, with the presence of high technology, it was a difficult to reach place. And now I think so very few who dare to go up there at all. It is not possible to go directly there, so we will have to go around the mountains to the south.
- In the sense of the South? You understand that there are dead steppes to the south. And beyond them is uncharted territory. There are no cards. There are no guides. We wake up by ourselves.
- Don't worry, my friend, Werner smiled, demonstrating an incomprehensible metal object encircling his wrist. We have karat.
Werner liked Athanasius, there was some kind of lively and kind force in his speeches. Oddly enough, he completely trusted him. Perhaps he somehow reminded him of Swann.
- Well, since you have everything under control, then we will not worry, however, before we begin our journey, I need to finish one thing that cannot be delayed. - Una, you followed the duke for a long time, tell me when he is most vulnerable? When are the fewest people with him?
- Athanasius, I understand what you want to do, but the tasks that we face are much more important than revenge!
- Departing with you, I do not know if I can survive this journey and come back. He deserves to die!
- This is a big risk.
“He's a bad man, and you know that. Tell me!
- Okay, Una answered reluctantly.
“It won't take long, I promise you! Go as you can. In about five days I will catch up with you.
- The Duke is very rarely left alone. He is always accompanied by a retinue of soldiers armed to the teeth. These are mercenaries, extra class. But one night, I noticed that the duke, having changed into ordinary clothes and covered himself with a robe, took only two people dressed in the same clothes and went to the city. I followed him. I was careful and kept my distance because I knew that if they noticed me, they would kill me without delay. He visited a place called Naked Chest and spent about three hours there. I heard screams, women's screams from the open window on the top floor. Damn sadist. He visits this place about once every two weeks, on the same day. Which will just come in a couple of days.
- Yes, I heard about this place, Tan said with a smile.
Una narrowed her eyes suspiciously at him.
- Yes, my friends just told me, straightening their brigantine, Tan added with embarrassment near his neck.
“We'll be waiting for you in a town called Latas,” Werner began.
- I know where it is, agreed.
“I don’t think it will be difficult for you to find the place where we are staying. But for heaven's sake, be careful! We need your help, without you, I'm afraid this event is doomed to fail!
- I'll be there in five days!
- And one more thing, let's go ...
They entered a room whose walls were metal and divided into many squares. Stopping at one of the squares on which the inscription "NANO-11" shone. Werner made incomprehensible manipulations with his hand, after which the borders of the square lit up with green light. He floated out of a niche in the wall. It contained five black flat rings of various sizes and an unusual black belt.
- What is it?
- This is my gift to you for agreeing to help. Now, be good, take off your clothes ...

***
Tan was finishing the final preparations for the ride, tightened and checked all the knots on the saddle, and gave the horse a drink. This picture was silently watched by Werner and Una. Soon Athanasius turned to them and said:
- I have to hurry. Peaceful road to you. We'll see you soon. Werner came up first. They shook hands:
“Don't forget what I told you about, Athanasius.
- I remember everything.
Una came over, her face exuding excitement and seriousness.
- You are doing the right thing, fair, and for this, you will succeed! Retribution will find everyone!
He nodded in response, mounted his horse and, without turning, disappeared from sight.
- Well, Una, it's time for us to say goodbye to our house. Unfortunately, we cannot take with us the technologies of the old days and attract too much attention to ourselves. We'll leave everything here, except for a couple of small souvenirs to help us along the way.
- Are we coming back here?
- The quantum battery, for some reason, has stopped generating energy. In a few weeks, nothing else will work here, except for the compartments where autonomous batteries are installed, which will still not last long anyway. And I am afraid that sooner or later someone will find the entrance to the bunker and get there, it will only be a matter of time. Today's humanity is obliged to find its own way of development. Therefore, we must do everything possible to isolate our technologies from ourselves. And we have no way to blow up the rocks around the bunker, but we have enough charges to hide the path to it.
- Father! with horror in her voice she barely uttered. - This is our home!
- Was it for a long time. But the time has come for us to find a new one, as our ancestors did many times. I’ll gather everything you need, and you set up the charges along the forklift shaft.
- But what about our order.
- We are an order, and we must fulfill our tasks, no matter how difficult they may be. Since its founding, the order has not faced a more difficult task. Be strong my daughter!
- What about DARA?
- We discussed it with Professor Werner Royce, said a woman's voice. I will follow with you, with only slightly reduced possibilities.
Then her father left, leaving Una alone with her worries.
This was the place where she was born. A place of wonderful childhood memories of a mother who passed away so early. She knew every corner, every building by heart. There, in the distance, against the far wall, was a catering unit and greenhouses. On the right from the entrance there is a play area, a recreation and study area. On the left are laboratories and a medical complex. A quantum battery installed in the middle was responsible for ensuring the life process of the entire bunker. Her heart was breaking with pain.
But she is no longer a child. Una frowned. The last shadows of the past floated before her eyes, dissolving into reality, and she resolutely recovered to the laboratory for charges.

***
In Anamut, he arrived in about a day and a half. Athanasius could not go faster, since there were practically no villages along the way, and he could not change his horse, therefore, to drive his only means of transportation threatened to be late. Therefore, Athanasius arrived only at noon, and before nightfall he did not have much time for all the preparations. Approaching the gates of the city, he pulled his cape over his head. He left his horse in one of the huts, located near the entrance to the city. Tan paid the owner of the house to look after his horse until morning, leaving a couple of coppers for oats and water. Having a sword with you was fraught with the undue attention of the city's guards, so he hid it in the forest and took only the dagger with him, the one that Una took from Grubert's house. He left all his protection in the bunker, so that he was not at all different from the townspeople. For greater reliability, he rolled the cape in the mud and slightly tore it.
As he had expected, the guards of the South Gate did not even turn their ears in his direction. They were more interested in merchants entering the city to sell their goods.
The herald no longer shouted his name, and the remaining lonely hanging leaflets with his portrait were not updated. This meant only one thing, everyone was sure that he was not in the city, and if Athanasius Mirra was not a complete idiot, then he would never return to the city. Therefore, his search was stopped. But he did not want to risk it and still continued to play the role of the poor resident of Anamut. By the way, the painted portrait did not at all look like him, at least he wanted to think so, he looked too scary on it.
By evening he reached the brothel. It was dangerous to enter it. He was not sure of his mistress, but Gertie, with whom he spent the night, was more credible, so he sat down on the paving stones near the opposite house and began to wait for his friend.
 After about an hour, he saw a familiar face. As always, with a slight smile, she went down the steps and went straight to the nearby tavern, most likely looking for a client for the night. After waiting a little while, Tan followed her.
The visitor to a tavern called the Stray Duck was a motley one. There were fishermen, petty bandits and crooks, workers, builders and, of course, regulars who wandered from table to table to have a drink for free. Their faces were bruised, with cuts or bruises. sometimes they sat down at the wrong tables.
He found with his eyes Gertie, who was sitting near the bar. Athanasius calmly approached her from behind:
- Hello Gertie.
She turned around and, recognizing him, she already wanted to greet him by name, but he managed to put his finger to her plump lips. The innkeeper watched all this quietly.
- I have business with you!
She smiled, - Well, you know my rates, although the last time you were unusually generous, she said coquettishly.
- I'll pay you 10 times more.
Then the smile faded from her face. - What is it about?
“Not here,” Athanasius said. - We need a quiet place ...

***
“You promised my father that there would be no problems with him, and now I hear from you, the Duke, that you do not know where Athanasius Mirra is.
“I already informed your father in a letter that Mirra has left the city. He fled, tail between his legs, to save his pitiful hide. I assure you, my people claim that he is not on the territory of the city, which means that he is not dangerous for our enterprise, Erhard finished with an important air.
- How could you even miss it? My father made it clear to you that he needed Mirra.
- Young man, I treat your father with deep respect and reverence and I will allow myself to give you advice, never again talk to me in such a tone! This company depends on me as well as on King Orm. If it were not for me, King Virgil, not for not letting myself be drawn into this bloody war. As he spoke, the tone of his speech grew louder. - I, the person who pulls the strings in this city, and not without reason, your father turned to me. Then the duke fell silent, pulled himself together and continued in a calm voice: - Therefore, do not worry, Prince. As for our agreements, they remain in force. Your father receives what is kept in the treasury of King Hawk, and I receive the throne of Arkon. And we are all happy! And we all remain strong and good friends!
Only his father, the king, and not some huckster could afford to talk to Argos in such a tone. But to fend off or come into conflict with the duke, it was foolish, especially now. Therefore, he was only silent, and breathed heavily, not taking his eyes off Erhard. The duke noticed how evil the prince's face became, so he hurried to retreat:
“Dear friend, I never asked why you needed Meinard's treasury. What could be so valuable in it that entire states could be at stake? the duke asked a rhetorical question. But, this is your business with your father. Tomorrow, peace will be signed between the warring states, one of the conditions of which will be full access to the treasury, as well as the division of Meinard into parishes, which will be under the control of representatives of our kingdoms, with the preservation of its borders, of course. We are not barbarians, added Erhard with a smile, while patting Argos on the back. Now, my dear friend, excuse me, tonight I have a lot of urgent matters.
“Of course we need you a duke. There can be no question of otherwise. Then, turning around, Argos headed for the exit, saying, but so that Erhard would not hear him, - So far ...
As soon as the doors closed, the smiles from the Duke's face and the trail disappeared. - Stupid boy, he and his father do not yet know who they contacted.
Over the past few days, the duke was very tired, so, looking forward to tonight, going to his room, he hummed a little to himself. He knew that the girl serving him today would be very hurt.

***
Gertie, told Athanasius everything he wanted to know. Now he knew perfectly well the layout of the building and the room in which the duke would be served. What time he arrives. How many people are with him. Now it was a matter of technique to schedule their meeting. She also spoke about the sadistic inclinations of the duke. There were even cases that after his visits the girls were taken to the hospital. But he paid generously, and everyone, and for this, this information did not go anywhere further than the brothel.
And so, according to Athanasius's idea, as soon as it gets dark, and ordinary people scatter to their homes and rooms, climb up the side wall of the building to the desired room on the upper floor. As Gertie explained, the walls of this room are made in such a way that the sound practically does not penetrate through them. Therefore, girls often find out about the horror that is happening there only in the morning. This part completely played into the hands of Tanu. But the main question remained, with whom Erhard would enter this room. According to his plan, Gertie had to by any means force the duke to choose her. But the possibility remained that she would not succeed. Then, you have to navigate along the way. As Gertie said, his guards always stay outside the door, and sometimes even go downstairs, never entering the room. This non-professionalism also inspired hope for a successful outcome. But Tan always tried to think through everything to the smallest detail.
Athanasius, like a cat, climbed up to the third floor of the building and ducked out the window, which Gertie had kindly left open. There weren't many places to hide, so she chose a closet. Through the cracks in the doors, he could watch the door, which was very thick and tightly lined with rags. Three oil lamps were on in the room, and the bed was made with new linens. Everything was ready for the arrival of the guest, who was to appear, any minute. Before climbing into the closet, Athanasius put out two lamps that hung on the walls. The third, which was on the chest of drawers near the entrance, he moved to the table in the center of the room. Then he went to the window, closed it and closed the curtain tightly.
Everything was ready.

***
Time passed slowly. And as the climax approached, Tan became increasingly insecure. Yes, he took the lives of many people, but that was on the battlefield. Their lives, against him, everything is fair. - What now? he thought. He will become a murderer who, albeit deservedly, will still take his life for the sake of his revenge. He will become an executioner.
But his thought ended with a turn of the key in the lock. There was no way back.
The door flew open and Gertie was the first to enter the room. “Excellent,” Tan breathed. The main question was removed, and everything else should go according to the intended scenario. Duke Erhard entered after her, as well as two of his thugs, one of whom closed the door and slammed the bolt.
- Fuck, Athanasius cursed to himself.
Mirra, Erhard said. I am so glad that you will accompany me tonight. At that moment, two of his men drew their swords, and Erhard calmly walked over and sat down at the table, continuing the monologue. - Mister Mirra, well, you are full of hiding, like a robber in the forest. Come out, don't force us to resort to excessive violence. You may not believe it, but I would very much like to make a conversation with you. Let's pretend we are good friends.
Suddenly the closet doors flew open from the blow of a hand. - Good friends? came a voice from the darkness. Athanasius climbed out of the gloom with a grimace of hatred on his face. “Oh, I know how you treat your friends. Then he turned his head towards Gertie. - And how much did they promise you?
- Much more than you, Erhard interrupted him. You can't blame this sweet girl for that. The chance to get out of the mud is only once in a lifetime, and even then not for everyone.
“That was stupid, Gertie. You are a witness. He won't pay you anything.
There was a laugh from the Duke's lips. - And I like this guy. I really like it. Then he abruptly removed the smile from his face. - Of course, I won't pay anything. At that moment, one of the guards went behind Gertie's back and thrust a sword into her back, piercing her through. She let out a shrill cry and collapsed to the floor.
- Oh, you scum! Tan lunged towards Erhard, but his fighters immediately directed their sharp swords in his direction, making it clear that he was now in the wrong position. “She’s still a girl. There he looked at her lifeless eyes. “Just a stupid girl.
“If I were you, I would now take care of my skin. Let’s sit down at the table.
Athanasius looked at him in disbelief. But still he took up a chair to sit down. But here Erhard interrupted his actions.
- Weapons first, please.
After a little hesitation, Atanasius took it out from behind and without looking, threw it into the corner of the room. The Duke invited him to the table with his hand. - I think you are now wondering why we didn't stab you right away? I'm right?
- Yes, it surprised me a little.
“I was deeply moved by your story. As the current ruler of Woton, he turned out to be a brutal murderer. What kind of two-faced person you need to be to make this look all of us in the eye. There is no forgiveness for him. Do you agree with me?
- Yes. Athanasius said dryly.
- Here you see. We are starting to build a chain of mutual understanding. Trust me, if I could get everything back, I wouldn't kill the general. I liked him. He had the strength and spirit of war. I see them in you too. You need to have great courage to come here. And for this, I will give you a choice.
- I'm all in attention ...
- After signing the peace treaty, I will no longer be needed by King Orm. I understood this from the very beginning, getting involved in this game. By our agreement, he receives the treasury of Hauck, and I am the throne of Arkon. However, if I were in his place, I would most likely think that it is cheaper and easier to get rid of a person. Therefore, I secured myself, but not as I would like. But with you, the forces in this game change dramatically. So this is what I suggest. For some reason unknown to me, you are very interesting to Orm, so you will go to the bottom for a while. After peace is concluded, and a few days later, King Virgil falls from an unknown disease, I will become the head of state. At the king's funeral, you will go on stage and tell about all the atrocities that Orme committed. As a result of your testimony, he will be captured and soon hanged. His son, as an accomplice, will be forever imprisoned in prison.
- What good is it to me?
- Ha, I knew you'd ask that. First, Arkon will become the most powerful nation, which means that his people will prosper. You are a patriot and the welfare of the people is above all for you. Secondly, and this is not unimportant, you will become the new duke. Your kind will rule for many, many centuries. And thirdly, you can avenge the death of your parents. I think not a bad prospect, for a man who is about to be chopped into small pieces.
His speech was soaked through with lies. He honored her with his gut. He was a terrible and dangerous person who stood at the head of the country and would bring only pain and suffering. Tan leaned back in his chair - Only a fool could be from such a generous offer, Duke. But I never understood one thing!
- What?
- You: nobles, lords, dukes, kings, you think you are smarter than everyone. Always praising your own merits, neglect those that made those very merits possible. You always think that you know everything in advance, only you calculate the moves and only you have a trump card in your sleeve.
Erhard tensed slightly. He did not understand such imposing behavior of Athanasius, as if he were the master of the situation. - And what is hidden in your sleeve, Mr. Mirra?
Tan leaned towards Erhard, - Your death, he whispered.
- To kill him! The duke yelled.
Athanasius, with a sharp movement of his hand, threw the oil lamp to the floor, and he himself jumped in the opposite direction. The room plunged into darkness. But Athanasius saw everything as if on a bright sunny day. He glanced at his arms and legs, which were covered with an unknown substance, tightly fitting his body. Tan touched his face, which was also covered by him. At the moment of the fall, he activated the gift given to him by Werner. Erhard, his legs tucked to his chest, lay on the floor, covering his head with his hands. Two of his guards waved their swords randomly as they moved forward.
Tan didn’t wait for their eyes to get used to it and ran to one of the guards. But he, apparently hearing footsteps, directed his sword towards the approaching threat. Tan only managed to extend his hand. The sword hit his forearm. But to Tan's surprise, Werner's words were not an exaggeration, and the suit completely absorbed the energy from the blow, evenly distributing it over the entire area. From the side it seemed as if Athanasius was made of stone. With his other hand, he hit the guard in the chest. The blow turned out to be so strong that, to pieces, smashed his chest, while throwing it back a good, a couple of meters. Tan immediately pirouette, dodging the sword of the second, hammering his fist into his knee, breaking his leg immediately and tearing off its lower part. He threw his sword screaming and collapsed, writhing in pain. Tan straightened up. He felt incredible strength. Directly in front of him, huddled under the table, he spotted Erhard. Approaching the heavy oak table, Athanasius pushed it aside with one hand.
- Have mercy, Erhard begged him, closing his eyes.
- Open your eyes and look into the face of the one who brought you death, coward.
- Mercy ...
Swann's kind face flashed before Athanasius's eyes, a smile he would never see again. Extracts from childhood. Their nightly conversations around the fire. Tan's body filled with warmth, which was immediately consumed by the darkness. “You took from me the most precious person I had. You are no better than Orm. - Open your fucking eyes!
“No,” he replied intermittently. Fear seized his body.
Tan slowly extended his right hand and squeezed the duke's neck tightly. Only then did Erhard open his eyes. There was surprise in them. There was horror in them!

***
He felt incredible strength in himself. Yielding to her, he jumped out of the window. Tan landed on his feet but did not feel any weight. It made him smile. He froze, and again began to examine the miraculous fabric, which was covered. But then he noticed movement at the distant house. In the dim oil street lamps, it would be impossible to detect anything at such a distance. But not for him now. It was Vauton's representative. Behind him, a horse shifted from foot to foot. Then two more men rode out from behind him on horseback. They clearly feared whoever faced them. Neither side did anything. Tan guessed that they were Orm's spies who were monitoring the Duke's movements.
Suddenly a woman's scream came from the open window from above. Looks like the brothel staff found the bodies. Athanasius, not waiting for the reaction of the riders, rushed in the opposite direction. In a split second, he developed a speed comparable to a horse gallop. Turning around, he noticed that he was being followed. Then Tan jumped in one jump on the wall of a nearby house, pushed off from it and ended up on the roof of the opposite building. He jumped from roof to roof, breaking clay tiles. Its silhouette seemed mystical against the background of the full moon and the cloudless night sky. He ran faster and faster, leaving his pursuers behind, approaching the gates of the city. But suddenly Athanasius felt a cold breath of wind on his hand. Looking at her, he realized that his suit was beginning to dissolve into thin air. He urgently needed to find shelter. After a short time, he found a small niche on the roof. Far in front, Tan was completely sure that no one saw where he was hiding. In the blink of an eye, the power given to him evaporated, and the day turned into night. Then he heard the clatter of hooves sweeping past him. Tan exhaled, now his main task was to get out of the city.
Of course, after the discovery of the duke's corpse, it will take very little time before the exits from the city are tightly closed. Therefore, Athanasius practically did not have time to solve this problem. How can he freely leave the borders of Anamut ?! But the answer itself found it.
Athanasius heard chanting, if it could be called chanting at all. He looked down and saw a drunken guard splashed. Barely standing on his feet, but stubbornly walking forward. “What is needed, Tan encouraged. Waiting for him to pass a little forward, Atanasius cautiously descended and quietly crept from behind.
A few minutes later, Tan already appeared in the guise of the city gate guard. Naturally, the guards know each other by sight, so I decided to go for a trick. Taking advantage of the dusk, approaching the post, he began to whistle, signaling a violation of public order.
Four people poured out of the building. Running up to them, Athanasius asked which of them was the senior.
- It's me, said a fat-looking, bearded man.
- Great, we have an emergency. The gate must be closed urgently! Do not let anyone in or out. Two behind me, you and you, pointing your finger at two soldiers! Then Athanasius began to move towards the city gates.
- Who are you, asked the bearded man.
- Heck! Athanasius swore in his head. - I'm from the Royal Doorway! All questions as orders are fulfilled. The matter does not require delay. The question of the safety of the king!
Hearing this, the man immediately stood at attention.
- That is great! Behind me! Tan commanded. The two soldiers obediently moved towards him. As soon as they left the gate, numerous whistles were heard from the depths of the city. The guards of the city became aware of the murder of the duke. - Close the gate. Guard to arms! The bearded man with the remaining people took up defensive positions at the gate. Going outside the city, Tan called two guards. - You two go along the wall, and examine it, so that no one could go down the rope from above.
They immediately gave a military salute, putting their hand to their chest, as a sign that they understood the order and left.
- It's time for me to change my profession. Maybe go into a wandering artist, Athanasius muttered to himself ...
Part II (Gathering Forces)
Chapter 1 (Dangerous Man)
A few days earlier ...

It was deep night. The rain pounded on the roof, and with such force, as if trying to get inside. In a small dim room of a wooden house there was an unknown person hiding under a hat. The face was covered up to the eyes with a kerchief of dense black fabric. He was wearing a long leather cloak, which resembled gathered wings against the background of the semi-darkness. The left hand was hidden in a black leather glove. She was slowly wiping away her sharp and obscenely long knife, which was covered in blood. The walls and floor were also painted red.
In addition to the unknown guest, the house also included its owners, a man and a woman, who were tied to chairs. Their eyes, which until recently were so alive, were in a lifeless void, frozen in horror. Looking around again, the mysterious man picked up a calfskin-bound diary that he had taken from under the floor a few minutes earlier. He knew that once, this little thing belonged to the Duke Erhard himself, sweat like a diary was sealed with his personal seal, a coin and parchment in the crosshairs of two arrows.
Suddenly, the silence was broken by the quiet, calm and monotonous voice of a man who was addressing his tortured victims:
- Forgive me, I did not want to do this, but you forced me. I offered you a worthy reward for your help - a quick and painless death. But you chose to tempt fate. And what, in the end ?! I have the diary, and you left this world in terrible agony. You have to blame yourself for what happened, hitting the table with his palm, the man blurted out. But then he calmed down, closed his eyes, for a while and continued. - This world is cruel! Trust me, I know ... That was your destiny. You never know where and when death will come. And most importantly, in what guise. It just so happens that the face of your death is me. Forgive me again, I didn’t enjoy this at all. Then he put this ill-fated diary into a secret pocket of his cloak. He took an oil lamp from the table and poured all of its contents onto the floor. A couple of times I struck a flint, and now, tongues of flame, as inexorable as they were beautiful, appeared. Moments later, a fire broke out, and the man in the hat still calmly approached the door and went out into the rainy night, not bothering to close the door behind him ...

***
“... my lord and king, by his intrigues and blackmail, King Orme forced me to become involved in his political games and conspiracies, the apogee of which is your overthrow and becoming the supreme king of three powerful states. I know there is no forgiveness for me and this manuscript is the only proof of my boundless loyalty to my king. If you are reading this diary, it means that I am no longer alive, and Orm continues to implement his insidious plans. If you are reading this diary, it means that I could not betray you, and abandoned my plan, knowing that this decision will lead me to death and ... ”, stopping reading Orm burst into deep laughter for a good few minutes. - No, well, what a scoundrel, he said with a smile. - Well, okay, this is definitely the only document that should have been sent to the king after his death?
- You can't be sure for sure, there is always a tiny possibility of some unaccounted for options, but you know me and my work, said the man in the hat. - I always fulfill my task with high quality, therefore, if you allow me, I assume, Your Majesty, that you no longer need to worry about it.
“Fine, that's enough for me,” Orm said. - Ghost! he turned to the man in the hat!
- Yes?!
- I know you not so long ago, and yet enough to understand that you are a man of extraordinary intelligence and talent. Why are you doing what you do? I do not know your name or where you are from. Where did you get all your knowledge and skills. I didn't even see your face hiding under the handkerchief, which honestly worries me. But these were your terms of cooperation, and I agreed with them. And as you may have noticed, I honestly abide by our terms.
“So what's the question, Your Majesty?
Orm leaned slightly towards the Ghost and quietly asked: - Should I be afraid of you?
After a short pause, he replied - That you, Your Majesty, I am a simple mercenary and only, though probably the best.
Orm turned his head slightly to the side, not taking his eyes off the Ghost. But it was impossible not to notice the mistrust on his face.
- Well, great, Orm said with feigned satisfaction. - What do you hear about Athanasius Mirra?
- While unchanged, his trail was lost to the north of Anamut and more about him is not heard. But this is for the time being. I will find it.
- Well. Don't leave town, he said to the Ghost. - There will still be work for you. Then he went to the fireplace and threw the diary into the fire, smiling and watching as Duke Erhard's "shield" disappeared into flames.
The ghost understood everything and, bowing, went towards the door.
Orm looked after him, and the Ghost thought to himself: What a stupid question it was ...

***
A procession of three silhouettes on horseback moved along the narrow streets of night Anamut. The moon was in full phase and there were no clouds in the sky.
- What a wonderful sight, the Ghost thought. He loved the night. Twilight was his companion. He liked the lack of daytime noise. At night he noticed absolutely everything, listening to the slightest rustle.
At a distance from the riders, three more men walked, also on horseback. There were no metal horseshoes on their horses' hooves, and therefore, they moved much quieter, but not enough that the Ghost could not find them. These were the people of King Orm who watched the duke tirelessly.
In the rays of the full moon from the roof of the house, he saw everything perfectly, and quite deftly and noiselessly jumped from roof to roof of crowded houses.
The Duke's night walk ended at the brothel. He and his men dismounted. An employee of the establishment immediately ran up to them and, taking the bridle of all three horses, led them into the courtyard. Orm's men camped behind the house on the opposite side of the road. The ghost, on the other hand, took a better position from which he could observe both the building and the king's spies. Sitting down more comfortably, and crossing his legs, waited for the duke to come out, having played enough with the girls.
As time wore on, the Illusive Man began to examine and study the three horsemen of Orm. One was clearly older than the other two and stood patiently, peering out of the corner of the house. Without moving or making unnecessary movements, creating a minimum of noise. Must have been a seasoned spy who has been in his craft for quite some time. The other two were most likely his assistants. They went about their business, but constantly cast a glance at the first. Apparently, they were waiting for instructions for further action. Suddenly, one of the young, bored in anticipation, began to perform actions imitating a battle with swords with his hands, then their chief distracted from observation, turned his head and looked sternly at the assistant. Seeing a heavy and disapproving look on himself, he immediately stopped. Observing this picture of unprofessionalism, the Ghost smiled slightly, amused by the scene.
Suddenly, the Illusive Man heard a window on the top floor of the brothel open. His eyes immediately widened with delight and surprise, but his body did not move. He remained sitting, not drawing attention to himself. A man jumped out of the window, dressed in tight-fitting dark clothing and with a mask on his head, as far as the Ghost could distinguish in the darkness, although he was helped by the rays of the full moon. Anyone else would have broken their legs from such a jump, but this one did not feel the landing at all. Straightening up, he began to examine his hands and body as if he had seen them for the first time. Then he turned his head sharply, noticing the royal spy, who was already signaling with his hand behind his back. It was almost impossible to notice him, and yet he did. Moments later, the other two were riding out of the corner of the house on horseback. The unknown and the spies looked at each other without taking any action. Then a woman's scream came from the room from which the man jumped out, and the uninvited guest, developing great speed with lightning speed, ran away. The ghost immediately jumped to his feet, watching the chase that had begun. And the man in the mask, having easily jumped onto the roof of the nearest house, without slowing down, ran towards the city gates.
- That's how it is, thought the Ghost, and slowly began to descend from the roof.

***
Was Erhard the target of the attack? Orm asked him while trying to wake himself up from his sleep.
- I dont know. Your men on horseback chased the attacker, and after watching the house for a bit, I immediately went to you.
- And?
- Duke Erhard is dead.
Orme looked at the ghost with fury. - How did it happen?
- I dont know.
- Who did this?
- I dont know.
“It's your job to know everything,” Orme roared, coming close to the ghost. His men, grabbing the hilts of the swords, also took a few steps towards him. The ghost did not even flinch from such a development of events, but only looked first at one, and then at the second guard of the king, with his cold and calculating gaze. Orm was well versed in people and their characters, otherwise he would not have been able to get the throne for himself, and even more so to stay on it. And he realized that the ghost was preparing to fight. The king, without giving a sign, immediately retreated to the fireplace, folding one hand on his chest, and the other propped his chin. His men stepped back again, taking up their posts. - Well, you said, they chased him, perhaps they are already leading him to me, the king said hopefully.
“This assumption is highly doubtful, Your Majesty. In truth, your people will be incredibly lucky if they can't catch up with him.
- What are you talking about?
“The man who dealt with Erhard and his men is quite unusual.
“What do you mean, unusual?” Orm said, raising one eyebrow. Without waiting for an answer, he continued, - You speak in riddles. What you see? Answer immediately.
- As I understand it, an investigation will be initiated, and I need to get to the scene of the murder of the duke. After that I will provide you with a detailed account of what happened in the brothel.
“Well, Orm said, I think it makes sense. We will present this assassination as political, connected with the Duke's office and posing a threat to the Crown. Under the agreement, we can conduct an independent investigation. But I cannot send you, so you will go to the site as assistant to my coroner.
“I don’t need more, Your Majesty.

***
It was dawn when the Ghost and King Orm's coroner, Killath, arrived at the brothel, accompanied by five soldiers. At the entrance they were met by the guards of King Virgil, who, seeing the approaching people, blocked the passage. Killat immediately dismounted from his horse, took a few steps, took out of his bag a parchment sealed with the seal of King Orm, and waited patiently, without saying a word. A few minutes later a man came out to him. He looked worried and was clearly not happy with this development.
- Who you are? the man asked.
“I am the coroner of His Majesty the King of Orm, and this is my assistant, pointing a finger behind his back, said Killat.
- My name is Rius. What happened in the brothel will be dealt with by me, and only me.
Killath slowly walked over to Rius, handing him the parchment. He, in turn, accepted it and, breaking the seal, began to read. - It says here, the coroner began, that the representative of Vauton, whom I am, according to the treaty between our states, must be allowed to investigate cases that pose a threat to the monarch and matters of state importance. Thus, we will go inside, otherwise, a scandal of a national scale is expected. And I'm afraid you will have to answer for it, because we have every reason to conduct an independent investigation of this case.
After reading the royal decree to the end, and after a little reflection, Rius stepped aside, opening the door to the brothel and gesturing with his hand, inviting them inside. However, he did not even begin to hide his displeasure, and the newly opened palm turned into a clenched fist. Then, not letting them go ahead, as demanded by etiquette, he went inside and hid in the corridors of the house.
The ghost dismounted, walked over to Killat and whispered to him, “Excellent work, Mr. Coroner.
- Well, still, pleased with himself, answered Killat.
When they climbed the stairs and entered the room, Killat took out a handkerchief, and, wrinkling his nose, put it to his face. There were four lifeless bodies on the floor. Three men: the duke and his guard, as well as a young beautiful girl, apparently, a brothel worker. Rius was squatting and examining the corpse of a young lady, and next to him stood a woman in an elaborate dress and a sad look. “Poor, poor girl,” she muttered.
- You must be the manager of this brothel? Ghost asked dryly.
- The manager? she asked indignantly. Not a trace remained of her sad face. I am the owner of this establishment. My name is Katana Zord.
“Mistress Katana,” the Specter said in a low, monotonous voice. Why is this room's door so tightly padded?
- This is a special room for guests who do not want to hear what they are doing here. We have a diverse contingent of clients, many of whom are very influential people, she said proudly.
- I see, but who broke down the door?
- My assistant, on my own instructions!
- As far as we know, the alarm was raised by you late at night, then if you please ask, what prompted you to give such an order?
- In what sense? Mrs. Zord asked in confusion.
“You all understand, Mistress Katana.
- Who are you, she flared up. Choose an expression. I am Katana Zord, and believe me, I know a lot of people who can easily ruin your life, mister "how are you there"!
Killat suddenly stepped in, wanting to nip the conflict in the bud. - Mrs. Zord, I beg your pardon for this misunderstanding. Let's go and have some tea with you while my man goes about his business. Where is the best place for us to go with you?
“Learn from your boss how to talk to a lady,” she said imperiously to the Ghost. Then she turned to Killat - let's go those into my office, he is on the first floor.
The ghost followed them with a gaze that, as before, expressed calmness and serenity. Then he walked over to Rius. He, in turn, without waiting for the question, proceeded to the story: - Apparently, the murderer followed the duke for a long time and knew his routine. He entered the room in advance through the open window and hid in the closet. After waiting for the door to be tightly closed, he got out of it and interrupted everyone who was in this room without sparing anyone. Then he got out, again through the window and, going down the wall, disappeared into the shadows of city streets.
- How did they die?
“One of the guards has a fist-sized hole in his chest. In the other, the red hot pot turned into mush and part of the leg was practically torn off. Apparently, he died of painful shock. The very same duke was strangled, while breaking his neck. And the girl was pierced with a sword, and in the back.
He listened to Rius and scanned the room at the same time. Then, when he finished the story, the Ghost turned to face him. His gaze expressed displeasure.
- What?
- Based on what I heard, according to your words, it turns out that a certain killer made his way along the wall of the building, then with his bare hands sent three mature men to the next world, two of whom are professional fighters. Picked up a sword, and stabbed a girl peacefully standing in the center of the room, and then just as calmly left the room through the window?
- This is my version. And how is this geek just not afraid of the punishment of the gods for such an atrocity.
- Huh, the Ghost chuckled.
- Don't you believe in gods? Rius said naively
Then he laughed in his face. And Rius had a grimace of incomprehension on his face.
“You see, Mr. Rius, the belief is the belief that it cannot be proven! It cannot be believed, it cannot be studied, it is not tangible. Have you personally seen God at some point?
In response, silence.
- You see, the Ghost stated sadly. Now look here, and he pulled out from the bosom of his cloak a huge and sharp knife. Do you see this?
Rius tensed slightly when he saw such a terrible object in the hands of an unfamiliar person.
The ghost saw fear on his face, then smiled and took it back! - I believe in what I see, but you can leave your faith for the sheep bleating from the voice of the shepherd! I am not saying that it is not useful! Without faith in divine punishment, people would do what, in principle, they do, but openly! People will always do evil, to please themselves or to please others, hiding behind imaginary gods who forgive them everything, as soon as they pray and ask for forgiveness. Belief in the Gods and the divine abode, where everyone strives to get after death, is just a fear of that very death! Eternal life and all that! Ha ... in truth, I'm sure my hand is much worse than God's! After these words, he looked with cold and predatory eyes, straight into his eyes. Unable to bear it, Rius immediately turned away! Looking a little more at the back of his head, the Illusive Man turned and headed for the exit: - I finished here.
Rius turned around. This was the scariest person he had ever seen.
Entering Katana Zord's office, the Illusive Man found her and Killath sitting side by side in armchairs. Killat, something animatedly told Madame Zord, and she in turn laughed. But noticing the incoming guest, she immediately hid behind a mask of importance. Killat, on the other hand, smiled even wider and asked the ghost:
- How is the investigation progressing?
- Very productive. The ghost walked over to the owner of the brothel and stood in front of her.
- What do you want? she asked, puzzled.
The ghost silently tugged at his cloak, drawing out his knife. The woman recoiled in fright.
- What are you doing? exclaimed Killat.
But the Ghost paid no attention to him and did not take his eyes from Lady Zord. - Do you know what treason is? he asked her.
“I… I don't know anything.
“Treason to your king,” he continued, is a terrible crime punishable by death. But you are incredibly lucky, because I serve another king and if I hear the truth now, I promise that no one will know about our conversation, including Rius. However, if we do not find understanding with you now, then, although I really do not want this, I shamelessly drive this knife right up to the handle into the base of your skull. And then I'll tell you about the conspiracy against the crown. How you deliberately planned the death of the Duke. The fact that you watched how he was killed from the next room through a special hole in the wall. You watched, didn't you? That is why you broke the front door so soon, because it is simply impossible to hear what is happening in the room.
She immediately dropped to her knees, falling at the Ghost 's feet. - I beg you, have mercy. I will tell you everything I saw.
- I'm all in attention.
- Information for me is everything. She helps me get rich. Of course, it would be foolish to blackmail the Duke, but it is possible that whoever could pay well for it. I saw the killer get out of the closet. And how they, sitting at the table, conversed with the duke. I had seen him before, but where and when I could not remember, but now I remember.
- And who is he? Ghost asked, intrigued, snuggling closer to Mistress Zord.
“This is the man everyone is looking for. It was Athanasius Mirra.
Chapter 2 (Chase)