Fire and Thorn

by Mary Vee

  “As you wish, sire.” Jonathon road back to his place in line. “He said no.”

  Katia’s gentle voice responded. “Then we’ll simply have to depend on the Great King for our safety. He has cared for us this far.”

  “I’ll try, Katia. But, I think I’d rather face a dragon than these angry citizens.”

  The squires’ conversation faded into a sudden roar of angry voices.

  Gilbert collapsed back down on the bed. Surging pain drove him in and out of sleep. He didn’t know how long it lasted, only that the litter jolted him awake.

  Ben’s face poked inside. “Sire, we’re home, want to come out and play?”

  Hardly, in his condition. He could barely face the people. “Did very many people come?”

  “A few.”

  Gilbert rolled to a sitting position. The Eastern Gate had a platform set up with guards lined across the front. Thousands of men, women, and children had gathered in the fields of thistles. That was a lot more than the few Ben mentioned.

  The steward stepped next to Ben. “Your public awaits, sire.”

  “For what? To kill me? To string me up from the highest gallows?”

  “I’ve known precious few kings in all of history that were loved by all their people, sire. You can’t have such high expectations.”

  “In other words, the crowd is ready to stage a coup.”

  “With all due respect, sire, that’s not what I said.”

  This was the moment. The end of the quest. Without it, the whole adventure was for nothing. He sighed. “Very well, I will attempt to speak with them.”

  The steward helped Gilbert down from the litter. Burning fire quivered up and down his spine. He winced and took three deep breaths. “Slow.”

  The crowd chanted. “We need a new king. Better yet, let us form an alliance with Malum.”

  The steward leaned close and shouted over the din. “We’re not in a rush, sire. Take each step slowly.”

  Sybil slid in on Gilbert's other side. “I’ll help.”

  A heckler from the crowd interrupted the chant, “He won’t even walk on his own. What kind of leader do we have?”

  Gilbert took another deep breath and raised his free arm for Sybil to support. “Thank you.”

  She stepped in sync with the steward. As they moved forward, Gilbert found the strength to raise his head. As far as he could see masses of Aerlisians stood facing the platform. They scowled and raised their fists.

  The steward and Sybil helped Gilbert climb the ceremonial platform centered in front of the East Gate.

  Voices from the crowds shouted, “Hush. Can’t you see he’s hurt?”

  That was the first kind words he’d heard.

  They whispered and pointed to their floundering king. Their angry looks changed to raised eyebrows and compassionate concern.

  Gilbert bit his lip, squelching the pain screaming in his back as he moved up the first step of the platform. He paused. Throbbing beats pressed in his head, pulsing louder than the angry voices from earlier.

  A gentle hand pressed on his arm followed by a sweet, comforting voice. “Sire, drink this. It’ll help you.” Katia handed him a flask.

  He first gazed in her lovely eyes, so thankful for her, then wrapped his hands around the cup. He poured drops of her medicinal drink down his throat, nasty tasting though it was. Her tender touch, still on his arm, warmed his spirit. She reached up and pushed his matted black hair from his face. “The Great King will help you.”

  The brew slid down his throat as she stepped away. No one had been this kind to him. Servants, cooks, courtiers, even his parents had done things for him, but more out of a sense of duty. Katia’s deeds came from her heart. She had shown true compassion.

  Despite the agony from his wounds, he wanted to share the same compassion with the Aerlisians.

  With the steward and Sybil’s help, Gilbert stepped up the last two steps and turned to the crowds. He sat in a chair centered on the platform and called for the herald, the one who’s job required him to repeat all the king’s words loud enough for the people to hear.

  He began with the truth. “My fellow Aerlisians, the quest we set out to complete many days ago is not yet finished.”

  The people grumbled. A few troublemakers raised their fists. “I told you he can’t do the job. We demand a new king!” One citizen standing in the back shouted, “Look. Behind us. There’s a dragon hovering. King Gilbert brought more dragons.” Her voice changed to a screech. “It’ll kill us all! The only way to save ourselves is to get rid of King Gilbert.”

  The steward raised his arms high and waved for their attention. “You must listen to the king. I assure you his message is vital to your wellbeing.”

  “What makes you believe that?” shouted a heckler.

  “I was there.”

  The crowd hushed.

  “I know what happened. If you have any loyalty to this kingdom you will give the king your immediate and utmost attention.”

  “We’ll give him one moment. That is all. Then we take charge.” The troublemaker lowered his fist and folded his arms impatiently.

  They did not give him enough time. He stood and spoke without the herald. “We rode to the Valley of Sharon as the sacred words said must be done by all new kings. Several of our beloved team lost their lives in the battles we faced against dragons. On a sharp and steep mountain trail, all our supplies spilled over the cliff, leaving us with nothing. I learned….” He paused and lowered his head in shame.

  Chancellor Matthias and Count Godwin walked up the platform steps. Gilbert wiped a tear as they neared him. Matthias leaned over and whispered, “Don’t let their angry words bother you. We, too, have walked in your shoes. You must be strong.”

  Godwin smiled and nodded. “It’s true, sire.”

  Gilbert swiped another tear. “Really?”

  They nodded.

  Their words encouraged him to continue. “I learned I must rely on the Sacred Book for instructions and help. It wasn’t until later in the quest when I thought to ask the Great King for help. Someday I will share these stories. Katia, would you please bring me the treasure we found in Sharon?”

  She hurried down the platform stairs and over to her horse, removed the flask from the protective satchel, and gracefully sped up the platform. She handed him the treasure, bowed, and returned to her place.

  Gilbert took a deep breath and held the flask high for all to see. The silence of the crowd was deafening. He couldn’t tell from their response if they could see it. They weren’t talking. They simply stared at what he held. He closed his eyes for a moment and stilled his breath.

  All at once the crowd broke into a loud cheer as if they understood the importance of the Rose.

  Count Godwin whispered, “I hope you don’t mind, sire, but I mentioned you to the Great King every day of your quest.”

  “Somehow, I knew you did. Thank you.” Gilbert turned to the steward. “Help me. The time has come for me to finish this quest.”

  “Where are you going, sire?”

  “To get a shovel.”

  The steward wrinkled his brow. “Huh?”

  “The Rose must be planted to end the quest.”

  The steward shouted to the crowd, “Does anyone have a shovel?”

  Elizabeth pressed to the front of the masses and waved her arm. “I have mine. The king may use my shovel.”

  Her daughter and son carried the tool from her to the king. “May we help you dig, sire?”

  “Yes, you may. This way all the children will remember Aerlisians choose to keep the Rose in our kingdom. Remember, we also must follow the rules in the sacred book as Emperor Stephanas taught us.”

  “We will,” the children said.

  He pressed his hands on the shovel. Each child placed a foot on a side of the blade. Together they dug a hole then stepped back. Gilbert knelt. The movement revived the fiery pain, but he refused to stop. “Chancellor Matthias and Count Godwin, I’m ready to plant
the Rose.”

  They placed the flask in his cupped hands. Holding the Rose sent a tingle through his veins. His heart beat faster as he gently set the plant in the ground.

  “This is a special Rose. One that will root itself in our ground and stay strong as long as we follow the laws of the sacred book.”

  The children helped him scoop dirt into the hole and pat the mound. He tipped the flask and poured the water onto the spot then pushed himself up to talk with the people.

  “We all must care for this plant and help it spread throughout our kingdom. We must keep watch and never turn away from its presence or the sacred word.”

  Because of the still quiet. The herald didn’t have to repeat any of his words.

  The people sniffed and wept, not one of sorrow, though. More like great joy. At last, the Rose was here to protect them from evil.

  Chapter Sixty-Four

  “Take arms,” A man in the crowd bellowed. “The dragon is coming! Does anyone have weapons? Anyone? We weren’t prepared for a battle. Who will help us?”

  Gilbert pressed his hands out to quiet the people. “Citizens of Aerlis, calm yourselves. I know this is difficult but trust me. You will be safe. Lie flat on the earth.”

  Many men, women, and children listened and fell to the ground. They covered their heads. Others remained standing frozen and watched the dragon flap its massive wings as if mesmerized by the power of the creature.

  Gilbert cupped his hands. “Drop to the ground, now!” Those standing looked at him then suddenly fell to the ground. Elizabeth’s children whimpered and hid their faces. Gilbert scooted closer to them and held their hands. “You’re safe. Trust me, you’ll be fine.”

  The flapping noise grew louder until the dragon’s shadow darkened the sky. It reared its head back, ready to spew fire onto the victims below. Fear rose among the masses voiced in whimpers. Their words sounded like a beehive.

  Gilbert looked up at the creature. It floundered and gasped for air. Drops of saliva fell to the earth, splashing globs of gooey green mucus onto the people. They remained amazingly still. The horrid creature dropped its head forward then collapsed. A boy who’d dared to watch yelled, “Watch out. The dragon is falling from the sky.”

  Everyone looked up. Those in the way sprang to their feet and ran for safety. Young children screamed at the thunderous crash. Dust puffed up in a cloud. Some of the citizens cheered. Others flopped back to the ground, exhausted with fear. One woman turned to her husband. “Do you think the dragons will leave the kingdom?”

  “Yes,” the man said. “I remember now. Long ago Emperor Stephanas told us the Rose will protect us from the evil dragons as long as the king stays true to following the sacred words. We must do the same.”

  Gilbert squeezed Elizabeth’s children’s hands gently and helped them stand. “You’re safe, now. The dragon is gone.”

  They opened their eyes and giggled. “How did it happen, King Gilbert? What killed the dragon?”

  “The Rose from the Valley of Sharon, children. It saved us.”

  Count Godwin approached the king. “Well done. Because you brought the Rose to Aerlis, your eyes are open to the teachings in the sacred book. Aerlisians will still have problems in the days to come, as we have in Vista, but the Rose will be here to help.”

  Thousands of men, women, and children in the crowd clapped. They brought out musical instruments, sang, and danced in celebration. The music could be heard throughout the land. It was said such peace and joy had not touched the people in a long time.

  The squires did their fist bump salute and joined the celebration.

  Elizabeth’s children tugged on Gilbert's tunic. “May we train to be castle squires, sire?”

  “I don’t mind if you, young man, train to be a squire when you’re old enough. If your mother agrees. But, I’ve only known one girl strong enough to train for this line of employment. See Sybil over there?”

  Behind the children, Katia pulled out her knives and twirled them with the speed and accuracy of a marksman. He remembered her slashing thick laurel branches like soft butter. “On second thought, I think an exception can be made for you, miss. If you choose to train with Katia first, I’ll sign the document allowing you to train with the squires.”

  “Really? Thank you, King Gilbert.” Their faces brightened like the noonday sun. They copied the squire salute and skipped away. “Momma, Momma, guess what the king said.”

  Gilbert laughed. “How did they learn the salute that quickly?”

  Matthias and Godwin supported his arms. “Come, sire,” said Godwin. “It’s time for you to rest from your journey. Jonathon and Justin have offered to carry you to your apartment in the litter. Your work is finished for today.”

  Gilbert looked back to the east. Two clouds crossed in front of the sun, causing a twinkle of light to flash. He sat in the litter. “I am tired. Thank you.”

  The steward draped a blanket over his lap then stepped back and let the squires carry him to his chamber.

  He entered his room filled with memories of his family and wondered if his mother and baby sibling had survived. He lay on the large bed designed for a king.

  Bartholomew the healer applied new healing herbs to his back while Katia went to the kitchen and brought back warm broth. She offered the soothing nourishment to the king. After only two sips he said, “thank you. I’m too tired to eat any more.”

  “Well done, squires,” said Matthias. “You should rest from your journey also. Tomorrow you’ll tell me about your quest.”

  “Yes, Chancellor.” Jonathon and Justin nodded and left.

  Matthias walked to the chair by Gilbert's bedside. “I will personally keep watch over you tonight, sire. Rest well.”

  “Thank,” a yawn burst from the king’s lips before he continued, “you, Matthias. I hope your wounds have healed.” Just as Gilbert drifted into sleep, a messenger arrived at the Solar, requesting permission to speak.

  Matthias hushed the man’s loud voice and asked him to say his news, quietly.

  It seemed the messenger said, “Dragons have disappeared from the kingdom.”

  The next morning, a sharp burning pain reminded Gilbert of his injuries. He rolled onto his side and looked out the window. Seeing the morning sun reminded him of the bright, morning star and the quest. He looked around his chamber. This was home. He gradually pushed onto his elbows, pausing as fiery pain soared up his back, then finished sitting. Next to his bed, the chancellor sat fast asleep in the chair.

  “Matthias?”

  He snored twice then smacked his lips before blinking his eyes open. “Yes?” He wiggled into an upright position and yawned. “Good morning, sire. Do you need anything?”

  “I suppose I’m better, but the pain is still severe.”

  The chancellor walked over to his bedside. “What would you like, sire?”

  “I’m not sure. Did I dream about a messenger reporting the disappearance of dragons from the kingdom?”

  “It was no dream. You must have heard the report as you drifted into sleep. One of our fastest messengers rode like the wind to deliver the news to you. Since last night, I am happy to say there have been no reports of dragons.”

  That was the best news ever. Gilbert's stomach growled. “Then I’d like breakfast.”

  “I might have a better idea, if you feel up to it.”

  “What is it?”

  “Are you able to take a walk to the window?”

  Gilbert turned his legs to the side of the bed. “With some help. My back is stiff. It feels like someone wrapped tight bandages around me.”

  Matthias called for the steward. “The king needs help.”

  The steward came into the room and assisted Gilbert out of bed.

  “What will I see, Matthias?”

  “It’s my custom not to spoil surprises, sire.”

  “A surprise?” Gilbert tried his best to step faster toward the window. “What are all the citizens doing? And what are the decoration
s for?”

  “Count Godwin and Katia planned a party in your honor. Men, women, and children came from all over the kingdom to help prepare a celebration. Would you like to go?”

  “Are you kidding? The citizens of Aerlis have invited me. Did you hear that? I’m invited to a party.” The steward and a few servants helped Gilbert dress for the celebration and walk down to the bailey where candles lined the causeway, leading to the sea.

  Count Godwin busily ordered servants to arrange dinnerware and food at the first table. He turned at Gilbert’s sudden appearance. “Excuse me, sire. I had no idea you were up already. What can I do for you?”

  “I have need of your services, count. Are you able to stay a little longer in Aerlis?”

  “Yes, sire. Your uncle asked me to stay as long as you needed.”

  “Good. I’d like to hear more about the sacred book when you have time.”

  The count smiled. “I’d be honored to share with you all I know, sire. Now, if it pleases your Majesty, this party is given by the people of Aerlis in your honor. They have gathered in the courtyards and around the causeways of the baileys to share their best wishes with you. Would you like to start with some entertainment?”

  “Yes, that would be nice.”

  “You seem a little pale. Here, sit in this chair.”

  Two guards carried Gilbert past rows of tables dressed in cream colored linens and floral centerpieces. Servants carted platters of stuffed pheasants, wild boar, venison, bear, and goat. Apples, figs, pears, and grapes spilled out of fruit bowls onto the table top. Serving platters of the best breads and cheeses filled empty spaces between the food. And new to Gilbert, a fresh, clean scent from the ocean, one he hadn’t smelled since his visit to Vista, topped off the delicious food aromas.

  The guards carried Gilbert to the courtyard where a crowd sat on benches before a stage. Two thespians held their attention. One had his arm in a sling, the other had bandaging on his head. “Matthias, is that Ben and Charles on that stage?”