The Heaviest Burden

The Heaviest Burden is the ninth chapter of Tales of Sheol'gotha:  Shadow of the Abaddon.

Synopsis
Haebin, having returned to the group as the legion prepares to leave, is not impressed with the suggestion that they should bring Valon's body with them. He admits to finding nothing in his search for Soltas and notes that he has soldiers out looking for them, and after being warned regarding referring to Valon's body as an 'it', proceeds to attempt to offer Imma some consolation. Following that, he decides to goad everyone by stating they will laugh about what happened here one day. Despite the others trying to produce useful questions, Haebin proposes they bring the body with them and when he pushes Imma too far she attacks him.

He is able to ward her off, first with dismissive slaps, then with a buffeting of magical energy. Schurr holds her down and Haebin states that everyone present will be happy, then angry, then forget it had ever happened, and leaves of his own accord. Palus asks Maire and Schurr to put Valon on Schurr's back, as the larger demon offered to carry the body. Asus, feeling left out, asks why he is not being considered for helping, to which Palus scorns him for having tried to defend Haebin's previous antagonizing. Asus is rather insulted and tirades against Palus and Maire, and even suggests Schurr plays up his diability for the sake of the others.

He leaves, offended, and Imma rises with Ysir, telling Palus she resents his request for Ysir to look after her. Ysir placates her easily, suggesting they get her something to eat and remain near Schurr to keep an eye on Valon's body. As they go, Maire offers herself up as a scout in Soltas' absence and indicates her own sense of displacement, laughing inappropriately and asking questions she knew the answer to. Palus leaves her to prepare herself and moves away, immediately joined by Gadden who proceeds to attempt to alert Palus of what is transpiring within and without the legion. Already short-tempered, Palus eventually has Gadden silenced, and approaches his mount ready to leave before being intercepted by Eimer and the council members.

Aware of the departure, the group, including Lord Myrce, approach Palus with a reluctant and half-hearted offer of support. Palus implicates each of them in the actions of Lord Iraxi, but they shrug off the suggestion and claim that they simply want what's best for business. With that in mind, Palus demands they resolve their issues within the hour, as he will leave at that time and whatever is not said will not be upheld.

Section heading
Write the second section of your page here.