“The Emperor’s government is a three-pronged stool. I am the Palatine Vicar, managing
daily government. Avrankes is the Imperial Vicar, managing security and war. Kaieles is the
Religious Vicar, managing…”
“…devotion to the Emperor’s Godhead. Every child knows this, Gebron. Come to the
point.”
For a moment his eyes betrayed frustration. Then he said, “It is not for the Vicars to
decide that one or the other is a traitor to his Majesty. It is not for Avrankes or Kaieles to slay the
other. Only the Emperor can punish a Vicar. And that means you, the Emperor’s Justice.”
“I know my role, clerk. That does not answer my question. Why do YOU know of this,
and why do YOU tell me of it?”
“Because I am loyal. Because the Vicars must focus on their roles, rather than battle each
other for dominance. None of us are Second Emperors, nor meant to be.”
I snorted. “That only answers one question.”
“Hmmm? Oh. I have my ways, Cuthnos. They are none of your concern.”
I took a step towards him. “You will tell me the names of your sources.”
“Why?”
“That I may question them.”
He swallowed. “Why should I?”
“Because I am the Emperor’s Justice, and as you just argued, it is my place to do just
that. And also, if you do not, I will slit your throat here and now, and then tell Lord Avrankes
what you told me, and let him purge the Deathguard and grapple with Kaieles as he sees fit. And
then I will butcher the one who wins and present his corpse to His Majesty.”