All That Is Evil Is Not Dark/Chapter 14

Tralin rose from the fallen king and Darin observed a frightening change in his demeanor. This day had seen all manner of emotion in the Drakel's normally expressionless face.

"Gather to me as many Mana Potions as can be had among the masses," Tralin commanded with cold deliberation.

"My lord?" Darin questioned, startled.

"I have an idea what you are thinking, Lord Tralin, and I advise against it. You have channeled far to much energy already," Myr said. "Even though you can restore your energy with potions, you cannot repair the strain you have suffered so readily."

Tralin turned to Myr, his face twisting into an expression of frightful malice.

"Do you suppose to instruct me on magic, communicant? Do you dare suppose you can educate me on risks and dangers?!" Tralin turned to Darin. "As your king, I ORDER you to do as I speak."

Darin looked about helplessly and then shouted to his men. "Any among you who have magic potions, bring them to the regent at once!"

Within moments, the order was followed, and a large number of the precious blue vials were brought to Tralin, who poured them together into a large goblet. He poured a small vial of emerald green liquid into the cup as well. Seeing this, Myr responded with immediate alarm.

"MY LORD!" Myr spoke angrily. "You MUST not do what it is you are planning. You are no regent in Vandar. Xander, have the Regent of Deren arrested."

"What?" Xander spoke with startlement. "You have stripped me of my authority, I cannot. What does he wish done?"

"The emerald liquid is Caredanth. He prepares for transmogrification."

"He is making Metanoia Potion?" Delnar said, rising.

"Yes."

"Reconsider this, Lord," the undead said. "You know the dangers of this potion more than any."

"I do. Which is why I shall make my decision alone, without influence."

"You will die like the king; what will that leave?" Myr said.

"Jano is a capable regent," Tralin said. "He shall make a capable king."

"What is Metanoia Potion?" Darin asked, eying the turquoise-colored liquid.

"It allows tremendous bursts of magic," Myr said, "at the expense of life energy. The translation of body to mind. It is very often fatal."

Darin turned to Tralin, whose dark emotions ruled his expression. "You must not do this."

Tralin lifted the potion to his lips "On the contrary, Commander, I am bound to do this."

Darin reached to stop him and Tralin whirled. "Do not betray me, Vandarian. Not now."

Darin dropped his hand and his head. "My lord."

"Someone must stop this!" Myr commanded. "Guards, seize the man..."

"Do you reopen the war between our nations, communicant?" Tralin said. "I am the heir to the throne of Deren. Within a week, I shall receive coronation. You cannot win and you cannot dissuade my anger and my grief."

"Stand down," Myr sighed, defeated.

Tralin swallowed the potion and grabbed at his stomach, instantly in pain. The pain passed and Tralin regained his composure. "Any undead that approach are to be cut down. Not one shall survive my wrath."

Tralin moved among the undead and shot bolt after bolt of sun-bright light at the undead. Killing with purpose and without ceasing, Tralin's vengeance could not be resisted.