The Way of Edan (The Edan Trilogy, #1)

by Philip Chase

“I am Captain Nothelm of Torrlond. It’s my honor to command His Majesty’s personal guards. My lord, King Earconwald, sent me to bear the following message to you: We offer peace. If you wish to avoid bloodshed, surrender to King Earconwald, and he’ll allow you to live under the following terms: Your realm shall become Torrlond’s dukedom, owing Torrlond allegiance as well as yearly tribute. You will remain as King Earconwald’s duke and vassal, and you will come to your liege lord’s aid when required against his foes. Also, according to Edan’s righteous will, you and every member of your realm must follow the one true faith, the Way of Edan. Anyone who refuses to follow the Way will suffer execution, as will anyone who practices the rites of the heathen cult of the demons Oruma and Anghara. You must enforce this law with rigor. If found wanting in its enforcement, you will be stripped of your dukedom and executed as a traitor. If you refuse these terms, King Earconwald will take this kingdom through force of arms and Edan’s righteous will.”