Loki raised his tentacles in a sign of peace.  “It was not I, Brother.  I suspect the drake just sensed the death of the Matron and moved in to claim her territory. Or her eggs.  I too am curious to see what this young human does.  Already a Viscount, with a Citadel and teleport stations.  The only beings I’ve seen rise to power so quickly after an Assimilation were those who were already in power when it occurred.  They simply reinforced their rule and claimed their own holdings or those they could quickly steal.   This human has started from nothing.  I am impressed.  In fact… shall we make a wager on his future?”   Loki’s voice was smooth and soothing, and Baldur found it difficult to remain angry.

Until he realized his brother was using persuasive powers on him.

Drawing his sword in one tentacled hand, he pointed it in Loki’s direction.  “I see through your tricks, Brother.  And no, I will not wager.  That would simply give you incentive to ensure the young human’s failure!  I know how you think, Brother.  And I warn you again.  Do not interfere with this human or any other.  We have tolerated your twisted sense of humor for too long.  That ends today.”

“Of course, Brother, of course.  The humans are perfectly safe from me.  I shall take no additional action to encourage their demise.” Loki waved his arms in a gesture of innocence. “But forgive me if I hope for the humans inhabiting the island of Oahu to perish utterly.  I find it quite beautiful, and I would claim it for myself when the time comes.”

Hel nodded in agreement.  “Volcanoes.”

Baldur let out a sigh.  “I did not miss your phrasing there, little brother.  What have you done?  Tell me now!”

“I simply made a small adjustment to the System notifications.  To honor your human, you see?  When he constructed his Citadel, I made sure that all of UCP 382 was informed of his impressive achievement.  So that nearby humans would know his power.  So that those who sought power would stay away out of fear, and those who sought protection would seek him out.”

Baldur focused three of his eyes on his brother, glaring at him with contempt.  “You mean so that those seeking an easy way to seize power of their own would know where to find him.”  He shook his head, his weapon still pointed at Loki.  “I should gut you, Brother.  But I have no proof of your intent - other than my knowledge of what’s in your soul.  Be very careful.  I will be watching.”

End Book One

Acknowledgements

Acknowledgements