The Emperor's Dream - Chapter Twenty-Two

**Chapter One**

**Welcome to chapter twenty-two of The Emperor’s Dream, an epic fantasy novella from the wider world of The Mhong Chronicles. I’ll be publishing chapters each week, but remember, these are some of the very first drafts, which means you’re in on this at the very beginning. Thank you for being here, friend. We're getting close to the end, now. I hope you enjoy it.**

Ramreunya’s second visit to the Council Hall came with far more fanfare than the first. From his vantage point above the city, Ban described the Tohk Emperor’s procession in detail.

Many Sentients approach your position, friend Wanyi. They shine like metal and carry branches in their hands. Many Sentients gather around them. It sounds like thunder.

Thank you, Ban, Wanyi said. Alert me to anything else out of the ordinary, if you would, please.

Yes, friend Wanyi.

Wanyi never moved from his chair, despite the fact that the other chiefs had taken a break. He would remain in the Council Hall—his father’s throne room—for as long as he could before he was forced out. It was strange, being able to look around and realize he might never set foot in the Hall again. When the Het had come, Wanyi and his family had been driven out of the castle in a rush.

This time, he had time to prepare. This time would be different. One thing was for certain, though. He would not bow to Ramreunya.

Which meant he would probably die in this Hall.