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The Ultimate Weapon (Rel Astra Short Fiction.) Drax made himself comfortable as the Fiend-Sage prepared to deliver the latest report. Even for a creature that made a habit of immodesty, the Fiend-Sage seemed beside itself today, thought Drax as he drew deeply on his pipe. "So, my most valued servant," he said, "you are finally ready to reveal all the secrets behind this, the greatest weapon ever discovered... with which I may crush all of my enemies?" "Yes, even Xavener will be running for cover..." Drax allowed himself a smile but then considered the weakness of such a display at that moment. He snarled at the Fiend-Sage, "This is just as well! It has certainly taken you long enough..." The Fiend-Sage was horrified by the outburst, "Infinite apologies, my most patient and deserving master! The enchantment is unique and to understand all of the secrets inherent, I had to probe the finest minds... and very carefully..." Drax did not doubt the truth of the words, "so tell me then, what name has this substance been accorded?" "Oh!" replied the Fiend-Sage, "this substance is known in learned circles as gunpowder. Here, I will show you how it works..." The subsequent explosion was so loud that it was clearly audible for a mile around the tower. The flash generated was visible far from the city. Around the tower, the citizens of Rel Astra looked up with concern. They then turned back to their duties and labours, comfortable with the knowledge that the Lord Protector had seemingly survived far worse. Within the tower, Drax was perfectly still as the smoke slowly cleared and his sight returned. When it did, he was able to see the Fiend-Sage doubled over in the most awkward fashion, rambling at length with the most debasing of apologies. Drax could hardly contain himself. "You will RUE the day..." he began.