by Thomas Adams
He turned to Erika and said, “Pira still thinks she can beat me, can I get back to the exercise Erika?” Even though he was now a Master of Sword and Axe and the recently announced sole surviving member of House Rodull, not much had changed for Brandt after the ceremony. There was no fanfare, accolades or changes to his daily schedule. He may be the heir to the throne of Vesfal but no one was treating him any different.
She nodded and smiled at the young man. She had to give him his due. He was very talented and a tireless worker. Once he was gone she turned to Bosse and Alfaar and Bosse chuckled and commented to no one in particular, “Lesson? Who is teaching and who is student I wonder?”
The others laughed and Warden Alfaar said, “Lana’s Lute he is good! It astonishes me to see such talent, skill and dedication. It will be an honor to serve with one such as him.”
Erika looked the new men over and said, “Just remember, he is very young. He is a more focused and mature than most his age but he still needs our help with the big picture. He is very approachable for an Erling. Feel free to provide any necessary guidance to him about things as they come up. He still has much to learn about being a king and leader of men.”
They both watched the sparring thoughtfully for several more moments. Then Erika said, “Come, let me introduce you to the Grand Master of Reave Hall. I will also get you both settled into a room somewhere and give you a quick run through of the fortress, our schedule and current operations.”
***
Fridya watched the three depart. She walked over to Brandt and Pira. When they finished she called to Brandt, “Come here a moment. Who were those two men?”
“Good noon Fridya, Erika introduced me to two scouts that have come to help her. Warden Bosse is the older one and Alfaar is the younger.”
“Oh, they will help Erika do what?” Fridya asked.
“I guess they are going to look for Narasists and that sort of thing. Warden Bax has other duties and can’t spend all his time helping her.”
“That is good. She takes her duty seriously. I am glad she is getting help though. It will make us all safer. We need more scouts watching.”
“Aye, we do. Do you want to head in for mid-meal?”
She elbowed him in the ribs as they turned and jostled with the other students towards the mess hall. “Sure, I am starving. That Alfaar is young and tall. Did he tell you his clan? No?”
He grinned and pushed her back and she collided with another student in their band. This started a walking pushing and shoving match as the group bunched up near the door to the mess. The smell of stew and fresh biscuits wafted out of the open door in front of them.
“He did not say. But, if you want me to ask him to meet you later for a more personal introduction just say the word” he teased.
That earned him a punch in the arm. Master Grovan turned and eye balled the seething mass of young people coming in the door. They instantly calmed down and stopped their rough housing. They quickly queued up for the meal in an orderly fashion. Even though he’d completed his sword and axe training he still attended instruction with his band and performed his duties with the band. He ate with them as oft as he could but now had more leeway in who he sparred with and how he trained.
He missed having Fridya around all the time but since the ceremony and the Blӧd Oath he was treated differently by the band. Now, it seemed like when he was with them no one knew what to say to him or how to act around him. He knew they all missed how it was before and the easy comradery they had.
He ate and joked with his band. Summer was fading into fall. Cooler days were upon them. A welcome change too but time was passing and he worried incessantly. Each day lost seemed to bring them all nearer to some awful reckoning. Reports of the Erhand were most alarming, another coup and Illr-hrae openly seen in Crestia. The army at Reave continued to swell and train. Units deemed ready were sent up through the Pass of Fire to Fortress Cinder to bolster the defenses.
Brandt had told Fridya and Master Ivar about the vision from Yfiria and the Trolls in the abandoned castle. He had wanted to go to Brod himself but Ivar had discussed it with War Captain Hemming, the garrison commander. They convinced him to wait, for now.
War Captain Hemming could do nothing directly. It was outside his jurisdiction and his hands were tied. He followed his orders. His orders required him to send all scouts to Cinder as fast as possible. But, he did send couriers, with the warning, to the Chancellor and to the garrison at Castle Kӧptra. The commander at Kӧptra was responsible for the mountain range along the northern border where Brod was located.
***
The days passed and there was no response from the Chancellor. The dream message sent by Yfiria was constantly on his mind. He didn’t know what to do. Master Ivar would not help him make a decision. He only said he should do what he felt right. So, Brandt poured over maps of the northern border and the interior routes of Vesfalruk. No great ideas or grand plan came to him. Without more information trying to make a plan was a waste of time. They needed more intelligence from Brod.
Warden Bax said the Chancellor was a smart man and would surely send soldiers to investigate. Bax also wrote out another official message for the Chancellor with Brandt. They sent it with the fortress’s military dispatch rider going to Kimera. Brandt did not think it would be enough to prevent a major disaster. For some reason the dispatches were not getting through or were being overlooked.
He was coming to the conclusion he should depart Castle Reave and head for Brod to investigate for himself. They needed to know what was going on there and try to prevent a Troll invasion down the old North Road. There was a reason Yfiria sent the warning to him. It was terribly difficult to travel between Ellorhim and the Shadow Lands. Aravin would only do so if left with no other choice. The fact that Yfiria had sent him the dream message told him he must act on it. She could not just contact anyone in Vesfalruk.
And, if no one did anything the Troll army would likely invade Vesfalruk and the result would be terrible. Vesfalruk would be overrun. Many people would die. Brandt didn’t want that to happen. He’d taken an oath. Protecting the people from the Erhand was more important than sitting on a throne in Kimera. But all indications were that the Emorie could begin their invasion any day. All available forces were needed at Cinder as well. He was torn.
Ivar said if he was to leave he should go now, winter always came earlier than expected in the Northern White Mountains. Brandt had to make a decision soon. Once winter arrived it would be too late to travel to Brod. The snowfall would block the pass at some point. And, now that Brandt was a Master of the Sword and Axe he could depart the Hall. He was not bound to stay until he turned the War Age. But, he would miss some training and not be able to go to Cinder when the Emorie began their invasion. Master Ivar had ensured him he could return at any time and complete the training and even pursue his Grand Master title when he was ready. He had also said the siege at Cinder would take months. The Emorie would not be able to break through quickly.
He desperately needed guidance from Aravin about what course he should take. He decided if he heard nothing within a sennight he would obtain permission from Master Ivar and go scout the ruined Fortress of Brod. He would then report what they found to the chancellor in Kimera.
***
Two days later Archivist Wulfgar showed up at Reave Hall. That evening Erika, Bax, Ivar, Brandt and Wulfgar walked down into Tanic to the Red Harp. Brandt had not been in the inn since he’d been marched in to Warden Bax many years ago. The place had not changed as far as he could tell. It was crowded but they found a table in the back. As they drank their lager Wulfgar told them about his activities.
While he’d been gone he’d sent a couple messages to Ivar but he could not send great detail or key facts. The messages were carefully worded since Wulfgar was not certain who would end up reading them. He made sure nothing specific about Brandt was ever included in them. It would not do to have their intelligences read by their enemies
.
As the group enjoyed their meal Wulfgar said, “We have made good progress. Of course we still have more to do.
Ivar shrugged, “As well as it can be, all things considered.”
“Aye.” answered Wulfgar, “The rumors of what happened at the Trials are rampant throughout the kingdom. The Chancellor has yet to make a formal announcement. The Council of Jarls quibbles as always. They will send an agent to Reave soon though. They canna ignore such a public claim. Jarl Gustave has been summoned as well but with the war looming he is resisting the summons for now.”
Bax chipped in, “It will force the Jarls’ to take a side one way or another. Once the lines are drawn we can figure out which ones to go after and change their position.”
“I think so as well. As it stands, if a vote were taken today, Brandt and the Chancellor would not have enough votes. Close, but they are about twenty or thirty short I think.”
Brandt asked, “So you have been trying to garner support for me to become king?”
Wulfgar replied, “Aye, trying to put out feelers and gauge the waters as it were.”
“Do you have any news from the Emoire? There were rumors of a coup.” Erika asked.
“I am sure War Captain Hemming keeps you up to date. He sees everything Hordalf sends from Cinder.”
“He does but I thought you may have heard more, from the Chancellor.”
“Well, there was another coup. No one knows for certain who sits the Eagle Throne now. The good news is the infighting delayed their call up and there has been unrest and civil war around the capital. Some legions fought each other as well. Until that cleared up the invasion was likely on hold. I think whoever rules now will sort things out soon, if not already.”
Ivar said, “At least it gave us more time. That is always a good thing. But, more bad news, we have word from the Shadow Lands of a Troll army at Brod.”
Wulfgar exclaimed, “Trolls at Brod, no one foresaw this. It could be a major blow and it should be seriously investigated.
“Bloody Brod! Of all the places,” exclaimed Erika.
The group was reflective for a moment as everyone considered all that had been said. Brandt had been pretty quiet to this point. But now he set his mug down and announced, “I am decided. I go to Castle Brod. I can’t ignore this warning any longer. Something is compelling me to go there and quickly.”
Erika slapped the table, “Why ever would you go to that accursed place? There is nothing there but a ruined fort. And, getting trapped there by an early winter storm could mean we might be stuck there for the winter. And, what if we run into more Narasists?”
“Aravin told me it does not matter where I go. No place will ever be safe. I will be hunted and pursued. If there is a Troll army up there it could wreck Vesfal. We need to know and do something to prevent it. And, I will not ask you or anyone else to go with me but that is where I will go.”
Erika frowned, “Damnation, Trolls, Druids, Dokköndi, all these dreams and prophecies are hard for me to understand. If you go I must follow. It is my duty.”
Chuckling Bax added, “I have been with you from the beginning Brandt. I will not let you go on your own now, especially when you need us the most.”
Wulfgar motioned north, “There canna be that many Trolls. But it should be investigated. There are no defenses between Brod and the capitol and there are a lot of towns and a few small cities up there as well, some with no walls or defensive works.”
Ivar responded, “If you are decided then go, take Erika, Bax, Alfaar and Bosse. I will find another good kriger from that region to go as well.”
Brandt stood, “We should leave in two days, say sunrise. Let’s discuss logistics and make plans at first meal tomorrow. We will have all day to prepare.”
***
At first meal the next day they quickly decided the composition of the group. It would be a small band to avoid detection but tough enough to fight against a small group of Narasists. Erika, as Chief Scout, would lead. Her two colleagues Bosse and Alfaar and she would handle all the scouting, hunting and woodcraft skills.
Warden Bax obtained permission from Jarl Gustave to go as well. Fridya, who had found out last night after talking to Brandt, was also going. She would not be denied. Ivar did not want her to go and fought her but she was not under anyone’s direct command and she was determined to go with Brandt.
Ivar conceded, “I will send a note to your father, outlining the plan, and telling him you would not be gainsaid.”
Bax surmised, “It is a moon or more to reach Brod, at least. Once we pass into the Wilds there is no direct trail there until we hit the old abandoned North Road. We will have to hunt, forage and trade to keep up our food supplies.”
Erika added, “There are few settlements and very few opportunities to resupply in the Wilds.” She further directed, “Brandt, pick out strong sturdy mountain horses and a few spares we can use as pack animals as well. Make sure they have good serviceable tack. Bosse, you gather some climbing gear and spare weapons as well. Make sure to get extra arrows and quivers. Alfaar, you are in charge of the camp kit. Check the scout’s locker too. And, get a kit from the healers as well. Fridya, get what trail food you can from the kitchens. Don’t skimp. As much as you can beg and steal.”
Bax added, “Everyone should also bring their personal gear and warm clothing and sleeping furs since winter is coming. Gloves, hats and heavy cloaks will be required.”
Master Ivar set his gaavee down, “Erika, I will give you some coin from the Hall’s funds so you can resupply when the opportunity rises. I will also look for a map. I canna give you more advice. You all are experienced and capable. Be safe.”
Erika nodded with finality, “Of course Master Ivar. Gear check before last meal. We leave at dawn tomorrow. Be assembled and ready by the stables.”
Chapter 27
So It Begins
Dreams and Memories
The boy’s smile disarmed her. It was earnest and without guile. She knew all about guile and sneakiness, growing up at her father’s court it had been on display every day. But the boy, he was just a lad she told herself. He was a handsome boy although his dress and manners were atrocious. There was something different about him but she could not exactly place what it was.
She didn’t understand why the boy was here. That Druid, Aravin and her mother had told her that she would meet and help train the future King of Vesfalruk. They would grow up and live together for many years. Yfiria suspected her mother desired a match for her with the Vesfalruk prince. Surely, this head strong loutish boy at the table with them wasn’t the future king?
Aravin entered the large drafty dining hall, sat in his usual chair at the table’s head and formally, although belatedly introduced the girl and boy. To her dismay she discovered the sweaty smelly boy seated next to her was indeed the prince. Well, she had her work cut out for her. Even in Vesfalruk the nobles were not this bad.
Out of the corner of her eye she watched the boy eat. It was bad but she had a strong stomach. Well, if this was the boy she was to train, his table etiquette would be the first thing they would work on. She couldn’t eat her meals with him like this. His bathing habits would be second for he smelled and appeared like a grubby stable boy. Had the Druid ever made him bathe? She needed to make a list. It looked like it would be a long one.
***
The small band set out from Fortress Reave at sunrise the next day. Erika led, Alfaar and Bosse came next, then Warden Bax, and then Fridya. A big quiet kriger named Horace, along with Brandt, brought up the rear with the group’s pack animals. Ivar had sent Horace along as another expert experienced fighter that also knew the Wilds well. The man was very quiet and somewhat aloof. He’d barely said a dozen words to Brandt as they prepared and departed Fortress Reave. His eyes though were always moving and scanning the area. His hands stayed near or on his weapons. And boy, did he have weapons.
It was not uncommon for a kriger to carry a sword, axe, several dag
gers and knives and a spear or bow. Horace had two swords, two throwing axes, a bow and at least three daggers Brandt could see. He also had a hammer and a third axe looped over the pommel of his saddle. He wore a mixed set of leather and banded armor and had a small round buckler strapped across his back. He was one heavily armed kriger.
They rode cautiously down out of the fortress, stopped at a bakers in Tanic for a large sack of fresh bread, then quickly passed through the gates and out into the countryside. All was quiet for the most part. The sun was just coming up and it was cool, cooler than the previous days had been. Brandt wore his hood pulled over his head to hide his face. Erika knew there would be spies watching the fortress and town. She did not want their enemies to have it easy. She wanted them to be just another patrol sent out to scout the surrounding area.
As they passed through the fields outside the gates of Tanic, Brandt turned and looked back over his shoulder at the sleepy town and the fortress crowning the cliffs above. Most of it was still cloaked in shadow and mist but he could make the details of the town’s outskirts and the fortress perched above Tanic. His memory had improved considerably and he now remembered some of his childhood in the Shadow Lands, the hidden parallel dimension the Druids used as their secret refuge.
He also remembered his arrival at Tanic that wet cold spring day all those years ago. It was a painful beginning and the memory still hurt but he thought of Reave Hall as his home now. He wondered if he would ever see it again. He’d arrived poor, lost, alone and with no recollection of his past but Brandt had friends now at the Hall. Friends, memories and a personal history were all tied to this place now. Leaving it was difficult. He didn’t know what else to do though. How would he find his way and honor the oaths he had taken? What was his path? How could he, poor, clanless and without political power claim the throne of Vesfal?
