The Hands of the Emperor

<p> </p><p><em>An impulsive word can start a war.<br />A timely word can stop one.<br />A simple act of friendship can change the course of history.</em></p><p>Cliopher Mdang is the personal secretary of the Last Emperor of Astandalas the Lord of Rising Stars the Lord Magus of Zunidh the Sun-on-Earth the god.</p><p>He has spent more time with the Emperor of Astandalas than any other person.<br />He has never once touched his lord.<br />He has never called him by name.<br />He has never initiated a conversation.</p><p>One day Cliopher invites the Sun-on-Earth home to the proverbially remote Vangavaye-ve for a holiday.</p><p>The mere invitation could have seen Cliopher executed for blasphemy.<br />The acceptance upends the world.</p>