The Protector of Esparia (The Annals of Esparia Book 1)

by Lisa M. Wilson

  Anton reached Jessica first and gently picked her up. “I told you I needed you, Uncle Anton,” Jessica smiled through the pain in her chest, “it just wouldn’t feel right for someone else to scoop me off the ground.”

  John helped Lepsis to stand. “I’m John Ernshaw. And this little powerhouse is my daughter, Jessica.” To her he asked, “Are you all right? How are the ribs?”

  “Well, Uncle Larone’s pain killer has definitely worn off, but I had a soft landing. I think I’m okay.”

  “Lepsis, I’m a healer. Let me take care of those cuts, you’re bleeding.”

  “The fall must have opened some of them.” Lepsis inspected his arm. “My death would have been quite a trophy for Ballian. Thanks to you, Lady Jessica. You saved my life.” He squinted down the road, out the open main gate. “You have excellent eye sight, to spot someone with a bow aimed in here.”

  “Oh, I didn’t see anything, I felt it.” The explanation tumbled out before she thought about what she was saying and she instantly regretted it.

  “You felt that Ballian was aiming at me?” Lepsis cocked his head.

  Jessica moaned. “No…I, ugh…I didn’t know exactly where the danger came from, just that it existed. It’s hard to describe, it’s not a very pleasant experience.” She did not want to talk about it. She herself barely understood the physical aspects of the warnings, and she had no idea as to why they happened. However, she saw her friends and family were waiting for her to continue the explanation. Larone seemed particularly interested.

  “From nowhere, a horrible feeling comes over me. A foreboding or type of terrible premonition, then there’s this almost overpowering urge to throw up. This is only the fourth time it’s happened, so I don’t know all the fine points yet. How did I know you were the specific person in danger?” she shrugged her shoulders, “I just knew. I felt it. It doesn’t sound very scientific, but that’s how it works.”

  She looked at her dad, waiting for a sarcastic remark to her pitiful explanation. To her surprise he nodded. “I believe you, Jess.”

  CHAPTER 16

  Acceptance

  After John and Larone tended to Lepsis’s wounds, the council meeting resumed in the modest conference room. Jessica noted Quirt’s absence, but Lepsis joined them. He had exchanged his tattered clothing for the same simple-styled gray robe Larone wore. His thinning blond hair was smoothed back and he had washed up. He looked much less threatening, but Jessica knew how deceiving looks could be.

  Larone began. “Daenon controls the Deserts of Demar, and two of our western provinces, Snow Peak, which voluntarily seceded to him forty-five years ago, and Palium, which he acquired four years ago. He has made an alliance with our southwestern neighbor, Hent. We do not know the exact numbers of the Demarian army, however Lepsis has informed me that since Segal’s defeat, the Demarian women have become obsessed with having children. The harsh environment of the desert, and lack of food and water, proved a hindrance to large families, but Daenon, through his southern alliance, has overcome that obstacle. The population has exploded and the children of the last four decades have been raised on a constant diet of hate. These are Daenon’s Elitet.

  “After hearing from Lepsis ten years ago, Haesom contacted the Olders of Ider Hoffle and set their training program into full operation. We converted some of Ramadine’s buildings and land into a training center. Twenty-five other ramastars around the country added training centers. Since that time, every center has been filled to capacity. Haesom did well to prepare our people for what is coming, and Ider Hoffle soldiers have done an outstanding job organizing our western defenses these past two weeks.”

  Larone paused and looked at John, who sat staring at the ground. He seemed grim and Jessica sensed he battled some inner turmoil.

  “The second courier last night came with good news,” Larone continued. “Our other southern neighbor, Galland, has signed a treaty with us. The Gallish are not as foolish as the people of Hent. They know Daenon’s promises are full of wind. We still need to send an emissary to Marone, but I am confident they will help.”

  “I’ll go,” Lepsis volunteered. “I haven’t been home in half a century, and it’s time I went. You’ll have your alliance.”

  Larone nodded. He cleared his throat. “Haesom was the High Protector of Esparia. With his death, his children’s death and the deaths of most Council members, we are virtually without a central government. I was only president of the Grand Council, not the federal head. It is true I have given orders these past few weeks, but I do not wish to continue. I have many responsibilities here at Ramadine and here is where my heart is. I will help in any way I can, even to giving my life if necessary, to see that Esparia remains free, but I do not want to lead. I do not have the vigor or youth necessary to fulfill the position of Protector.”

  He turned to Gaylee. “Gayleena, my dear, you are the rightful leader. It is up to you to decide what should be done.”

  “I knew if I ever came back, the reins of government would probably be thrust into my hands,”

  Gaylee responded. “I’ve been gone too long and grown too weary to take on this task.” She stood and walked to the large window at the end of the room. “I’ll remain a figurehead; however, a true leader is someone who’s used to giving orders, used to making the hard decisions and following through. Someone who understands war, for this has become a matter of war. We need someone with military experience, yet a cool head and able to lead. Someone who took a sloppy Afghanistan MASH unit and turned it into the finest field hospital the Army had. Someone with West Point training. I’m appointing my son, John Ernshaw of the House of Saylon, as commander of the armies of Esparia and Protector of the Rights of Freedom.”

  John’s head snapped up. He looked trapped. “Stop right there Gaylee. I came to find Jessica and bring her home, not lead a country.”

  “John, do you truly think I needed that formal sword ceremony to make you my son? I love you as I loved Haesom.” Gaylee smiled at him. “I only made the adoption official and legal for the sake of others.” John opened his mouth, but she held her hand to stop him. “Because of the adoption, you are considered as much an Esparian as I am. In the eyes of the law, you are a legal Saylon, and as Jessica’s father, with both her support and mine, no one can question your authority. No one will dare.”

  John took a deep breath. “I understand what’s happening here; I’ve definitely become more than a casual observer. I don’t mind giving you my support and expertise, but being an official Protector…”

  “That’s why you’d be perfect for the position,” Cordon cut him off. “You don’t want it, so you wouldn’t abuse it. We know you’re a soldier, an officer, used to giving orders. From what I understand, you’ve had wartime experience. No one here has, except Ophir and Anton. You and Jessica are the next rightful Protectors. The law allows you to take undisputed control. We can be united under you. If not, we run the risk of being fragmented under several would-be leaders.”

  “Three provincial regulators are already campaigning for the office of High Protector,” Larone added. “Gayleena’s arrival has dampened these movements, but they still smolder. Jessica is the rightful heir, but she is young and inexperienced. Under our law, your adoption makes you a Saylon, as if you were born a Saylon. You now have a blood right to the Protectorship.”

  John still did not respond. Seconds ticked by in profound silence. “Dad,” Jessica said firmly. “I’ve decided to stay.”

  “What?” John turned to her in disbelief.

  She knelt beside him. “I told you about Vorgen Hoffle, my journey to Ramadine through the cities and villages along the way. I’m Edian, Esparian, and I have to stay to explore this part of me that for eighteen years was hidden. If I go back now, I’d be half a person, forever wondering ‘what if’. Your entire life has led you to this point in time. Like it or not, you are a bit of a politician and you are definitely a soldier, not just any soldier, but a high-ranking, West Point graduate w
ith a penchant for dangerous assignments. Granted, you opted for medicine instead of a military command, but you have the background. You had to compete against the entire graduating class at West Point in order to earn your place in the Department of Defense uniformed Services University of Health Sciences. Not many people can get their medical education while beginning an officer career. To top it all off, your father, a career military man himself, taught you more about strategy than any book could. You told me that. John, call all it fate or whatever you will, but you are here and you are destined to lead.”

  “Destiny.” John gave a short laugh. “This is why you wanted me to follow Jessica.” John looked at Larone.

  The older man met his gaze. “Yes,” he answered softly, “I knew you would follow, just as I know you will lead.”

  “John?” Gaylee breathed.

  “Yesterday Larone asked ‘if’ I were to lead in this war, what would I do? Yes, I have given this some thought. What would I do? How would I begin to gather an army, to train it? Who would I ask to lead with me and how would I counter Daenon’s Elitet?”

  With a deep sigh, John rose to his feet. “I decided, when I accepted the Sword of Judgment, that my honor would be bound to this world, though I didn’t anticipate this kind of commitment.” He looked at Larone. “You’re not so subtle hints haven’t gone unnoticed.” He let out a long breath between pursed lips. “Yes, I will take command,” he said very, very softly.

  Ophir let out his own breath, a wan smile on his face. “I don’t envy your position, but I promise you my sword for as long as you need it.”

  Anton grinned from ear to ear and Lyrista reached up to squeeze John’s arm.

  “Thanks, Ophir.” He walked to the front of the room, then he squared his shoulders and took charge. “Larone and Gaylee will run the government from Ramadine. I want Anton, Reese and Jessica to travel throughout the country gathering all who are willing to fight. From what I’ve seen, you don’t have much of a standing army. With Lepsis’s information I did some math and figure Daenon has at least three million well trained, disciplined men at his disposal, probably more.”

  “Are you serious?” Cordon asked, his face going ashen. “Three million?”

  “Unfortunately, yes,” he nodded. “Lepsis, you need to leave at once for Marone. Take what men you feel necessary, I don’t think those Elitet Shields will give up on killing you. As soon as you’ve secured Marone’s aid, begin mustering an army. Keep in touch via the Red Feathers and await your orders. You’ll be the Seventh bar in charge there. You have a lot to do, without the luxury of much time.”

  “Don’t worry; you’ll be amazed at how quickly my people will respond.”

  Nodding his head, John walked to where Gaylee previously had stood by the window. He gazed absently up at Ragus. “Cordon, we’ll need to find Lepsis a new uniform.”

  “Good as done.”

  John’s voice softened when he directed his remarks to Lyrista. “I want you to head a Special Operations Task Force. We need advance scouts, people who can track and keep well hidden. We need expert bowmen, archers who can hit a target at five hundred and fifty feet… er, five hundred and fifty sheks I mean. I want units capable of quick search and destroy missions, and your best men are needed to form five man squads capable of countering the Elitet. We need hundreds.”

  Lyrista nodded, her eyes filled with excitement. “I’ll contact Ider Academy. I know just what to do.”

  Ophir was next to receive orders. “We need to send someone to Galland, to spearhead our forces there. Will you take that responsibility?”

  Ophir gave one nod. “Honored to do so.”

  “We’ll need maps,” John spoke to Larone, “of Demar and Esparia.”

  John next addressed Anton. “Road trip, Anton. It’s time to mobilize the entire nation, not just the west. Take Reese, Jessica, and if he’s willing, Varnack with you. Cordon’ll pick ten of his best men to travel with you as security escort. Travel the country, gather troops and send them west. Time is short. We don’t know when Daenon will invade. I’m sending Jessica to inspire the people as a rightful Protector. Reese goes because he has proven himself in battle and Lyrista has mentioned he has a good eye for leadership. I trust Lyrista’s judgment, therefore I trust Reese to appoint and approve officers.

  “Reese, to give you the appropriate authority for your assignment, you’re promoted to the rank of fifth bar. Anton’s presence will give your promotion legitimacy among the provincial Regulators. No one will question you.”

  Reese looked startled by this high praise and stared inquiringly at his aunt.

  “You judge well. You’re the right man here,” Lyrista confirmed.

  The young man blushed slightly. “Okay.”

  Anton seemed especially pleased. “It’ll be good to be out again,” he boomed.

  Lastly, John knelt in front of Varnack. “Will you protect my daughter?” Varnack licked John’s hand in response. He smiled. “Thank you.”

  “Gaylee, will you travel through this section of the country?” He turned to face her. “I’ll send two fourth bars and another security detail of eight soldiers with you to finish coordinating the units the Ider Hoffle soldiers organized.”

  “Of course.”

  John took a deep breath. “Cordon, I’ll need any advice you can offer as we look at the maps and plan tactics. Finally, I noticed from the day I arrived here, Ramadine flies no flag. Is there a national symbol?”

  “No.” Larone shook his head. “Some dines have adopted certain colors but there is no emblem of countrywide importance.”

  “Then we must adopt one. A national flag people can rally around and carry into battle is all-important. It inspires everyone who sees it and reminds them of who they are and where they come from.”

  “That’s a wonderful idea,” Jessica bubbled. “We’ll carry it where ever we go and it’ll be our standard, our Banner of Freedom.”

  “But what should it look like?” Lyrista asked.

  “I know,” Gaylee’s eyes sparkled, her voice deepened with emotion. “John’s right, we need something, and Jessica has given it a name. We need a Banner of Freedom. I’ve seen grown men cry when they watch their flag rise; people salute its meaning and treasure it. I’ve designed it time and again, wondering if I could ever unfold my vision. Our uniforms have been blue and silver for thousands of years, so the banner must reflect that. A blue, square banner; blue for loyalty and truth, with the square bringing to mind honesty. The banner will be fringed with silver. Silver standing for justice, for justice must always encompass truth and loyalty. Finally, a red ring positioned at the center, with red signifying courage and strength. It is at the center of truth and the ring represents eternal, never ending courage.”

  Ophir grinned at Gaylee in approval. “A large blue field, fringed in silver with a red ring positioned in the middle, yes, the banner is simple and the symbolism clever, justice encompassing truth and loyalty with courage at the center.”

  Larone actually looked excited. “This is good, very, very good. I will have our textiles department start on it immediately. By the time you are ready to set out, we should have enough for each of you to carry several. I will send word to every point of our great country—we have a leader and a Banner of Freedom.”

  In only a few hours, twenty flags stood ready for the travelers, just as Larone had promised. Reese’s uniform displayed the extra bars on it as proof of his promotion; Lepsis wore a new uniform, and an armed troop of twenty men from the Maronian contingent followed him. Ophir was ready to march south with a thousand well trained men.

  When Ramadine’s great bell rang out at midafternoon, the staff and students crowded along the main road, while the soldiers assembled in strict formation outside the broad, open gates. A pole had been erected on the northern gate tower. Gaylee, John and Larone stood atop the battlement.

  Gaylee held a newly made flag in her hands. Holding it high for all to see, she shouted. “This Banner of Free
dom will fly over every school, Justice building and Tiern Center throughout Esparia. It is a perfect, honest square of loyal blue, fringed by the silver of justice and centered with an eternal ring of red courage. Let every man, woman and child who looks on it remember the day when a new Protector came to aid us in our struggle against tyranny.”

  Her speech finished, she gave the flag to John and Larone, who hoisted it up the new pole. Every onlooker gave the Salute of Loyalty, then a mighty cheer filled the air.

  Once down from the tower, John and Gaylee went to Jessica.

  “We’ll see each other soon.” John sounded confident. “I’m very proud of you.” He gave his daughter a gentle hug, being mindful of her still tender ribs.

  “I love you too, Dad. Everything will be all right, you’ll see.” Jessica tightly squeezed Gaylee. “Goodbye, Grandma. I’m proud to be a Saylon.”

  “I know you’ll bring honor to our name.” Gaylee smiled with pride.

  Lastly, Jessica bade farewell to Lyrista. “We’ve only known each other for a few short days, but I feel I’ve known you a lot longer. I know you’ll be busy organizing your Special Units, but could you do me a favor and keep an eye on my Dad?”

  Lyrista’s cheeks went a deeper shade of pink. “I’ll do my best, but I don’t know if I’ll be seeing much of him. When he won’t be with Larone, Cordon has him scheduled for the training field, but I’ll see to it he eats and rests a little.”

  Larone and Anton nodded to each other while Reese waved goodbye to his Aunt Lyrista and Uncle Cordon. A lightweight buggy was prepared for Jessica with her horse, Web, harnessed to it. Jessica felt embarrassed by not being able to actually ride her animal, but if she was to make this journey, she needed to travel this way until her ribs healed more.

  Amidst great fanfare and wild cheering, the ambassadors rode out of Ramadine. Anton led the grand procession, with Reese and Jessica directly behind him and the ten security soldiers directly behind them. Varnack trotted at Jessica’s side, strong and alert, the worst of his wounds nearly healed. Lepsis and his men followed while Ophir with his thousand came last.