Chapter 15

The flickering braziers on the walls cast a dim glow across the council chamber, adding more depression to the woe-begotten room. An oval table rested in the middle of the lusterless marble floor, surrounded by high backed wooden chairs, some occupied, and some waiting to be occupied.

Cornelius awaited the captains, his patience waning every second. No matter how many times he threatened them, they always ran late. To make it worse, they never failed to come up with excuses—to the extent he had stopped asking altogether. He adjusted his purple cape and gazed at the ceiling, trying to ease his restlessness.

The colorful expanse portrayed some ancient conquerer. His frowning face screamed a silent battle cry, his sword raised in challenge. His flagship loomed behind him, the tranquil waves hugging its unmoving hull. All around him, his men were frozen mid charge, their snarling faces hidden behind their iron helms, eyes blazing with an excited frenzy.