“Quitte, let’s go back and let the tribe know about this.” Cage said. “Better pack up warmly, we’ll likely be leaving before nightfall.”
“Nightfall? So soon?” Elder Metak asked.
“Yes, the captain also warned that it will be a big event. That means that we’ll need to reach Vin’re as early as possible if we’re going to be able to rent some rooms before they’re all taken. Hopefully we’ll reach the city in a couple days. We’ll need to work quickly and prepare to set sail before night hits.”
The Spear turned right around and headed back to the island with a bit more excitement now that there was something to look forward to.
At the island it created mixed feelings and only one boatful left the island by mid afternoon to sail for Vlara’s capital, Vin’re.
Chapter 14
“Oars out!” Quitte commanded those on her ship to get her tribe from gawking at the great capital city of Vin’re. Her shout broke the revere and every person sat down and grabbed an oar. Rowing as if one mind, the Spear pulled forward while two furled the sail. She spotted an open area of docks and turned the rudder accordingly and aimed the bow for the space. A few more strokes had her order “Oars in!” and maneuvered her ship unerringly for it.
Men and women of the city watched as the strange ship came in and tethered the vessel to the dock. One of the harbormaster’s workers quickly approached the boat, admiring it’s unique design and beauty. He held up a hand in greeting and approached the group of men and women crossing a ramp. “Hello There!” he called out. “I need documents if you plan on docking in this area.”
He stopped as a tall man in green robes approached with the white griffin that had become the most talked about creature in every tavern as of late and its beauty was beyond any story’s accuracy.
Cage pulled out Tate’s document and revealed it to the man with the sword and satchel filled with papers. “Here you go.”
The man shook his head after tearing his eyes off Daku’s horse-like size. He took the docking permit and found it valid. The worker returned the document saying “Everything is in order, Sir Cage. I’ll be sure patrols regularly come around here to keep onlookers from getting too curious.”
“Then you better also warn that any who attempt to board her and not know her secrets will be killed. The boat has magic and only the captain and I know how to safely board. Tell whoever is in charge that we won’t be responsible for any idiot stupid enough to step foot on a boat that isn’t theirs and gets injured or worse.”
“I will spread the word.” The man turned around and went to do just that.
Cage’s attention glided over the city of Vin’re. It looked much the same except for snow scattered around. The pure white marble castle stood as the largest and most beautiful building in the city and the constant tingle of magic felt just as it had back in the early summer. Ten stories of utter craftsmanship and perfection. People were wearing heavier clothes, but still moving all over despite the below freezing temperatures. Around the protective harbor wall patrolled soldiers or they stood around spaced fires to keep warm during their shift. The docks below them were well kept and maintained as Cage noticed some people sprinkling salt over them to limit ice from forming. It was good to see the safety measures being taken.
“The last time you and I were here we were setting sail for Emroc.” Meeka said as she came over and took his large warm hand. “It seems like it has been years instead of months since then and all that has happened.”
“I know.” Cage chuckled.
“But it brought the two of you to me.” Brooke said warmly while wrapping her arm around her loves together. Then she laughed lightly. “Look at our brothers and sisters.”
“You had the same expression, Brooke.” Cage stated as he saw the ones who came along staring in disbelief. The Utala had clearly never imagined what a city is really like. They never imagined a city’s size to be so grand. “Few ever went to even Castle Emroc and you were just as speechless. That city was at least twice the size of this one.”
“True.” She admitted.
“We have company.” Daku warned and those who heard turned towards the very end of the dock where people were parting.
A group of soldiers in full armor with the best weapons the military had pulled their horses to a halt. At the lead was General Kurk who then had half his men dismount with him. The Utala gathered quickly behind their chieftain, but his signal said there was little danger from what he saw. Then when the horses moved Cage located the king and that of Jormon and Gaz centered among the elite soldiers of Vlara. They waited patiently and the king raised a hand in greeting, but the docks were too narrow from where the Utala stood. “Follow me everyone.” Cage said and led the way with Daku at his side.
“Morning Tate!” Cage called out when they got closer.
“Same to you, Cage!” The king returned. “Lady Meeka, always a true pleasure.” She smiled. Tate saw his men grow wary and inch closer to their swords to say “Calm yourselves men. These people are my guests. If they wanted to attack I doubt many of you would still be standing.” His elite warriors held still, but didn’t lower their guard as more Utala circled closer for a better look. “You must be Priestess Brooke?” She inclined her head to the king as another leader of a people. Then Tate took a step closer and looked up into the majestic blue eyes of the last griffin. “And let me just say it is an honor to finally meet you face to face, King Daku.”
The white griffin smiled and lowered his eagle-like head to the man with a simple crown of gold with gems upon his brow. “Your words are kind, Human King Tate. You surprise me. None of us were expecting you to greet us like this.”
Many were surprised by Daku’s unique voice and the command it held. Tate though wasn’t as speechless. “I had some time for myself and had been getting regular reports of a strange looking ship coming this way that mages couldn’t see without using their own eyes. Jormon and my scouts told me you all would be reaching the city today. But I too am surprised. I thought more Utala would be coming for the tournament. Has something happened I’m not aware of?”
Daku answered. “Nothing as bad as you think. Most of the flock wished to stay behind and care for the island. Only sixty chose to come, but the young were disappointed. My partner’s cubs were quite angry to not come.”
“Why is that?” The king asked.
“Because I said so.” Brooke answered. “There were no children competitions so they didn’t need to be here. Bringing them to Kote was one thing, but this city is far too large to protect them. Ours and Kote’s tribe are about even in number, but it is clear there are many thousands here. I could not endanger them, especially since there was no reason to bring them. My daughter and son are very upset with me, but they will understand.”
Tate looked at the fearsome woman to smile and say “Then the next tournament we have will also include contests for children. But why have only sixty come. Reports say there are about two hundred adults and a hundred children.”
His words had the Utala a bit uneasy. They didn’t like to have their numbers spoken aloud. But Cage grinned to say “Those here only came to compete. The elders and I decided to only bring these here with me. If we brought everyone to compete, there wouldn’t be much of a challenge.”
“By that, am I to assume your people are better than mine?” Tate raised an eyebrow questioningly.
“You said it, not me.” Cage smirked wryly. Being so close, he could hear Tate’s heartbeat skip with excitement.
“We shall see about that.” Tate challenged. “By the way, Captain Blout relayed your message and just so you know, I already planned on joining the tournament. I’m participating in the joust and sword competitions this year.”
“Just to be clear, can Daku be my mount for the joust and for the sword, can I go barehanded or is a blade required?” Cage wondered.
“Yes, Familiars can be used for a mount, but cannot do anything other than run and carry you. And no ma
gic will be allowed. Daku will need to stay a specific size for the event, for fairness. The only magic permitted is spelled to the protective armor worn. Lances will still hurt and will likely throw you off, but no one has died in that event in fifty years I’m proud to say… For swords, no, a blade is required. It will be blunted, but you must either make the person surrender or win by hitting vital target areas placed on the armor we’ll wear. Once all plates are broken on the opponent, you win.” King Tate responded.
“Good to know.” Cage grinned. “Sounds fun. We’re heading to go rent some rooms at the Twinkling Bell. Where is it my people and I can go sign up for the events starting in two days?”
“We can discuss that along the way. You all must be all ready to get indoors I assume?” The king wondered.
Meeka answered. “Five days sailing night and day on the ocean during winter with constant wind, yes, we are looking forward to it.”
That got a few chuckles out of some.
“It is an honor to meet you, White King.” Gaz the grizzly bear said when they all started walking towards the open gate. Jormon at his side said the same as they walked closely. Now that they got their wish, they didn’t let the opportunity pass by to meet with the griffin.
“As it is mine, Cub. Cage told me of the two of you and…”
Cage’s focus turned away from Daku’s pleasant conversation to that of the king mounting a prized black stallion. Brooke and Meeka stayed at his side while the Utala walked by the soldiers and kept their weapons on them at all times. The soldiers felt outnumbered though they were equaled in actual number. Their lack of armor did little to hide the danger they carried like a cloak. “So Tate, what is the real reason you came to personally greet us. We both know this wasn’t simply a warm reception. If you wanted all you had to do is send one of your servants to bring us to the castle. What are you hiding?”
In a low, serious tone the king said “Not here.” and then smiled. Only five seemed to have heard him. The general, Cage, his mates and Daku by the narrowing of his eyes before returning to the conversation of Gaz and Jormon. King Tate and the others were surrounded by his guards while pleasantly asking which of the ten events they wished to participate in. Cage and his loving mates spoke excitedly on what they were going to do while steering clear of the topic that Cage so clearly deduced to be the underlying reason of the personal greeting.
As they passed the port gates, the strong wind abated and it made everyone feel better. Cage became curious at the simple sword at Tate’s hip to say “Your blade isn’t what I’d expect a king to wear. It’s less ostentatious than many of the lords I’ve seen.”
“It’s an heirloom of my family, passed from king to king. Or queen, when my time passes and my daughter takes control. And before you ask, yes it has magic. It is a magic-breaker, much like the Bandit Lord’s axe you’ve taken. Since I cannot do offensive magic, it is my protection against it. My ancestor is much like me as I do not care much for ornate things. My people are my treasure and they know it. A sword without function is not a true sword, but a decoration. I have no need for frivolous things, but I do have a request if you are willing.”
“And what might that be?” Cage asked.
“Jormon told me how you destroyed the magic of Miot’s castle when the duchess used its magic against you… Well it was humbling truth be told. For you to be able to break such magic would mean your power has gone beyond most of the greatest sorcerers and only a handful, I’m told, is still your equal. I doubt even my castle’s magic could hold you for long…” Tate was looking for the right words before laughing when he met Cage’s annoyed expression. “Sorry, it is a habit of politically dealing with so many that I forget you like direct communications…” Cage smiled and Tate figured he was forgiven. “I would like you to make both my sword and castle stronger. I’m told from Jormon that any who can touch a non-personal gemstone will strengthen it if their power is greater. If you touch my sword and castle’s magic they will be able to better protect me and my people.”
Walking in silence for ten whole minutes, Cage deliberated without pressure on such a request before looking up and seeing a brief flash as they were escorted to the Twinkling Bell. The pair of shaped glass bells above the eave was just as he remembered. It would take only two more minutes to reach the inn. Reaching a decision, Cage held out a hand while slowly walking. Tate immediately understood and drew his hand and a half sword with a ruby pommel. His guards almost drew weapons, but stopped when their king handed the polished, mirror-like blade down to Cage. His magic felt the bindings of gem and folded steel as four effective wards stood out. One protected the blade from all damage. Another broke magic like the great battleaxe had. The next would allow the blade to glow should a secret phrase be uttered, but it was impossible to find. The very last prevented the store of mana from being siphoned by intentionally shooting the blade to anyone idiot enough to attempt it. It was confusing how the wards didn’t contradict each other, but they did seem to work correctly without breaking down. With a touch of mana, he could feel the gem accept him and increased its own power.
“Done.” He returned the blade and Tate sheathed his sword. “As for the castle, it’ll need to wait till I get my people settled in. I’ll also need your word you won’t use the stronger wards when I’m done, against me. If this is some trap to make the city’s wards stronger just to be used against me, you know I won’t be happy. Neither will Daku since no magic will affect him.”
“Then you have my word this is no deception.” Tate vowed upon his very honor. “I merely want my city to be safer. If your power is stronger than the city’s then I can use you to better protect my people in an emergency. I have only benevolent intentions.”
From the heart rate not changing, Cage knew the king meant every word. “Well, we’ve made it. Thanks for walking us and personally greeting us, Tate. If you’ll excuse us, we’ll be inside.”
“General.” Tate said and jerked his head with subtle meaning.
General Kurk pulled his horse closer to Cage and his women to whisper “When you get settled in I’ll leave two men here to escort the three, I mean four of you…” He corrected as Daku came closer. “to the castle. There are some minor issues to discuss and we will have greater privacy there. Do not worry, there is no current danger so take as much time as you require. The rest of your people are welcome to do as they wish and my men are all aware of the Utala rules as we’ve learned from speaking with Cillian at length.”
Meeka asked “How serious is this issue that must be discussed?”
“Enough of one that will require the castle’s privacy, My Lady.” The general responded with a rather gentle smile.
“Then we will not be long.” Meeka decided for them.
“Farewell, Utala!” King Tate said loudly. “When next we meet will be in two days for the events. Rest well and hone your skills.”
The tribe gave thanks and watched as all but two riders peeled away from them and turned around to head back for the castle.
“Hello Aniya!” Meeka said as she led the way into the Twinkling Bell. It was just as clean and well maintained as before when they originally stayed. The inn was much warmer than outside as a large hearth heated the room where some patrons sat. It smelled a mix of wood smoke and mouthwatering food being cooked in the other room.
The proprietor turned herself around to say “Meeka? You’ve changed…” and it was then that she saw more and more weapon toting women and a few men filling her establishment, but none caught her eye more than Daku taking everything in. “My word, what is going on?”
“Where all here for the Winter Tournament, Aniya.” Meeka answered as she walked over to the bar table that the owner stood behind. “Is it possible we can reserve the entire fourth floor?”
“The entire…? Mistress, that would cost much.” Aniya seemed a bit frazzled at such a notion. It seemed she never had to imagine such a deal before.
“Is that impossible?” Meeka asked.
“No, but, how long will you be staying?”
“However long the tournament lasts.” Meeka turned around. “Love, how long did King Tate say again?”
“About five days to a week.” He said and came forward. “Hey Aniya, you’re still looking good. Are your prices still two silver a night per room?”
“But of course.” She then watched as he pulled a bag of coins as large as his fist and upended the contents on the table. Each and every coin was gold and she had never seen such a blatant small fortune dropped before her. The gold immediately made up her mind as she looked to the tall mage and many eyes of copper skinned people focused on her. “The entire fourth floor is yours. Give me just a few moments for one patron is up there. I’ll give him a different room…”
“While you are at it, have the staff heat up some water. We’ll all need a bath and a hot meal.” Meeka said and got thankful nods and pats on the shoulder for bringing it up.
Aniya stopped scooping the gold back into the pouch to say “Mistress, I’ll have baths ready as soon as possible, but the food will need to be cooked. I was not ready for so many at one time.”
“Do what you can. We need to set our things down so if you don’t mind…”
“Oh, certainly.” The inn owner quickly pulled out the bedroom keys and set them on the table. “Each room number is on the key. Give me just a moment to let my staff know the situation and I’ll lead you up.”
“Much obliged.” Meeka said.
“Sorry for the wait, Boys!” Cage said as he, Daku, Meeka and Brooke stepped out hours later from the Twinkling Bell.
The patient soldiers stood and one said “Actually, that was faster than we suspected, Sir Cage.”
“Just Cage.” The warlock corrected.
“Sorry, Sir, but you have the title of a lord here in Vin’re. King Tate must not have mentioned it, but everyone, especially we soldiers, heard it from his own lips that not only do you own Cage Island, but you also have become a lord under our banner. But the king did say you would preferably not be addressed as Lord Cage so calling you sir is within reason is it not?” The soldier explained.
Laugh of Destruction (Book 3 of the Death Incarnate Saga) Page 50
