The Hands of the Emperor

<p>An impulsive word can start a war.</p><p>A timely word can stop one.</p><p>A simple act of friendship can change the course of history.</p><p><br></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.</p><p>He has never once touched his lord.</p><p>He has never called him by name.</p><p>He has never initiated a conversation.</p><p><br></p><p>One day Cliopher invites the Sun-on-Earth home to the proverbially remote Vangavaye-ve for a holiday. </p><p><br></p><p>The mere invitation could have seen Cliopher executed for blasphemy.</p><p>The acceptance upends the world.</p><p><br></p><p><em>?Lays of the Hearth-Fire </em>?#1.</p>