Saturnastra Chicot - Chapter 26 A Unique Opportunity

Chicot is another one of my books told from a down to earth perspective. It is a bit of a fantastic biography. The book is told from the perspective of a character within the story. While Melina's story was obtained from numerous interviews, Chicot's story was put together by someone who grew up with him. Jozef paints all the different faces of Chicot. Since he is not a professional biographer type of person, Jozef only tells things as he sees it. As you read the book, you will realize that Jozef is not the most reliable narrator. Unreliable narrators is kind of my thing. Every human has its own biased, and Jozef is not different with that matter. Still, he is not the type of person to downplay Chicot's flaws. As far as flaws are concerned, Chicot has many of them. This is just part of designing a well-rounded type of person. This writing style also helps ground this fantasy story by limiting the point of view. As with most of my books, I have a decent number of battles. The bulk of the story focuses on the civil war occurring in the Kingdom, and how the merchant class tried to deal with the problem.
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Chapter 26 (The Book has only 30 Chapters)
The summer months came and with it the war season officially began. Chicot felt it was a good a time as any to attack the supply wagons. They would be a source of good, raw materials. The briefing was done in the basement. It was the only room large enough to hold council with our 500 guards, and 85 martially civilians. Also joining us were 100 former soldiers, who had been allowed into town during the refugee crisis. These new men were eager to make some quick cash. They heard rumors of Lord Jean-Antoine’s wealth and strategic planning. They also knew he was quite successful as a highwayman.
Chicot had heard a rumor that Berthame was dying. He had less than a year to live. The chaos that would follow after his death would provide Little Sophia with a unique opportunity. By attacking the supply lines, we would be able to multiply our stocks 10 times fold. It would also help weaken our neighbors, who would look to Little Sophia as an easy target.
Pointing toward the map, Chicot said, “As of now, Berthame is marching toward the Aphillon territory. When he gets there, his fate will be sealed.”
“How can you be certain that he will die as a result of this battle and doesn’t that place belong to him?” asked Amberaldus questioning Chicot’s intelligence.
“How I am getting this information is none of your concern. What matters is that we must attack these routes, to raid the supply wagons,” said Chicot pointing toward several areas in the Western Kingdom.
“Ah! Revenge is nigh,” said Amberaldus nodding in approval.
“Call it what you will,” said Chicot.
At the end of the briefing, I said, “Why must we resort to looting? We have more than enough wealth for 10 lifetimes. And besides, if the entire continent is entering the kingdom of Lara, shouldn’t we reinforce our defense. What if something happens when you are gone?”
“This has nothing to do with money, Jozef!” said Chicot, “And relax, nothing bad is going to happen. We will be gone just 6 months tops.”
“Just do tell me how long are we going to be without guards?” I said alarmed.
“For starters, we have a small mercenary company who is going to be staying put, while the rest of us go. I am also going to be riding out with my personal guard, just to be safe,” explained Chicot.
“Mmm… I guess Alviss is going to be handling business for the time being,” I said.
Shaking his head, Chicot corrected me by saying, “He is coming too. You are staying behind Jozef.”
“Why? I could be far more useful to you in battle,” I complained.
“Not everyone is cut out to be a soldier, Jozef. I need someone I can trust to handle my affairs,” said Chicot putting his hand on my shoulder.
“I am both honored and humbled by your trust in me. Still, I would think Alviss or Sir Richard would be better suited to the task,” I said declining the offer.
“Not really, you are best suited to the task I am giving you. I should be back before winter, if all goes well,” said Chicot.
“What if it doesn’t go well,” I said pessimistic.
“If things go badly, I will return home sooner. I am not a big fan of suicide runs,” said Chicot.
The following day Chicot and his personal guard, and the other fighters headed out. He even took Gytha and her sisters, along with her mother. I was all alone, with not even the sphinx Ulna to keep me company. While I settled in my desk, I noticed a letter from Chicot.
This one was written in an unknown handwriting. This was quite strange since I usually wrote all his mail. The letter simply said, “If a large invasion army comes, ring the large bell we keep in my storage room. Keep ringing it, while the fighting lasts."