Chapter 45 Complications 2 (1/2)

Brock was hesitant to speak at first when noticing his young master's expression. He was worried that Aleks would do something rash due to his hatred of the gods. It was quite apparent to him already that Aleks had blamed all of his misfortune on them and even though he wasn't aware of the extent of the influence the gods had in the destruction of his home, he knew they had some part to play in it. Such a major event and the immense scope of the war was something surely influenced by numerous gods, but Brock wasn't privy to the ambitions of such lofty beings. He wasn't like Aleks and his anger was only partly aimed at the them.

Most of his anger was aimed at the nations involved in the conflict, especially the Federation. For the Federation, he felt no amount of compassion and he strongly hoped they would fall. However, for Brock, his main desire was to see his young master survive and live on even if it meant ignoring the atrocities committed during the war that destroyed his home.

”Tell me.” Aleks's words were a command that didn't allow for any defiance. He sat down on a cushioned seat and leaned back, placing his right hand on his chin with one finger resting on his left cheek. He patiently waited while Brock collected his thoughts before speaking.

”So be it. You would find out soon either way. A few weeks ago, after you left for Andor's Edge, clergyman for several gods arrived in the city. They sent out notices looking to recruit influential and wealthy individuals for expeditions into the Orgren Steppes. It turns out that a few months ago an alliance of churches sent a vanguard force into the Orgren Steppes to build an initial settlement. It appears to be a forerunner expedition for a fully sanctioned crusade. The higher ups of the churches have decided that it was time to begin preparations to bring the light of faith to the heretics and heathens of the Savage Lands. Or at least that is the word being spread throughout the city and word should have been sent to other cities throughout the continent by now as well. Most likely word was delayed to Andor's Edge because of the civil unrest there and so it isn't a surprise you haven't heard of it. Many minor nobles, third and fourth sons of powerful noble families, and wealthy merchants have been hiring out every mercenary company in the region as well as bringing their own private forces to take part in the expedition. This is an opportunity to carve out new land, perhaps even develop new nations. It is quite appealing to those who have little other future prospects or those seeking titles of nobility.”

Aleks listened intently with a frown, ”This is out of my expectations and could hinder our plans. I didn't expect that the churches would be preparing for such a grand crusade. It has been a few thousand years since the last one. As a matter of fact, the Federation was one of the nations carved out of the last crusade.”

”I had hoped to send word to you, but of course I had no idea where you disappeared to.” Said Brock with a hint of sarcasm.

Aleks ignored his attempt to chastise him and soon fell into deep thought.

”Because of this, I haven't been able to hire a mercenary company. Every company has already been hired out. I was at least able to contract a group of adventurers and while you won't be able to hire a mercenary company, there are still plenty of slaves for purchase. Of course, battle slaves are no match for trained soldiers.”

Alek's nodded considering his words.

”That can't be all.”

Brock sighed, pacing back and forth for a moment before grabbing a bottle of wine on a nearby table. He poured himself a glass and slowly said, ”I may have caused you a bit of trouble.”

”Hmm, it must be wearing on you for you to start drinking wine so early in the day.”

Brock gulped the wine down and glanced towards Lenia who was curiously walking around the room and occasionally lifting one thing or another. She seemed absorbed in her exploration of the room and the objects within.

”No need to worry about her. As I already said, she can be fully trusted.” Aleks said after noticing Brock's wary gaze.