Rise and Fall (Book 1)

by Joshua P. Simon

  She also sent messages to Duke Bronn, offering to aid him in his search for a wife. Elyse had felt less comfortable about making such an offer to Bronn since she knew better than most his true nature. But, she could think of no better way to mend their relationship, and Lobella thought it was a fine idea.

  After issuing the orders, she waited several days before telling the council of her actions. She hoped her quick thinking would please both Vicalli and Adein. Instead, it only infuriated them.

  Vicalli went on about how Bronn would surely see it as an insult that the queen after turning down his marriage proposal would have a say in making a match for him.

  Adein felt that sending a force from Namaris left the city vulnerable to attack should Tomalt grow ambitious. He spoke as though the queen should have known the only option was to send forces from Duke Olasi’s army to aid Duke Conroy since the two shared a border and should be working together. Adein’s statements caused strife among those in support of Tomalt, upset that Adein would insinuate he would commit treason. Those in support of Olasi grew upset, feeling it a great slight to imply the good duke would not do what’s best for the crown.

  And so these new arguments, pleas and discussions were added to those still unresolved items lingering since before the king passed. As a result, she was hesitant to make any more decisions until she had learned the results of her previous ones. But now it seemed she would be forced to act. She had heard nothing from Conroy or Bronn, and it was possible that given the distance, a reply could still be weeks away. Yet, I cannot wait any longer.

  Elyse was so lost in thought as she rushed through the long hall that she nearly ran into Illyan. He stood, blocking her path with a devilish smile across his face, bowing slightly as their eyes met.

  How did he get ahead of me?

  But then she remembered that Illyan had not been in the council this morning. The realization made her nervous and set her heart racing. She turned quickly to see if Gauge had caught up to her but he was nowhere in sight. She was forced to face Illyan and return the smile.

  He would not dare to do anything to harm me in my own castle. I am the queen and his ruler after all. I must remember that. Then a cold thought struck her. My father was the king and yet Nareash struck him in his own castle. A shiver ran up her back.

  “Ah, my Queen,” Illyan said bowing once more, “it is so good to see you again. May I speak with you for a few moments?”

  Elyse lied. “I would love nothing more as I missed your valuable insight this morning, but I’m afraid I have much to do today.”

  “You are too kind. I promise that I will not trouble you long. In fact, I can speak with you as we walk to your next appointment. I’ll even double my short steps to keep up with your own elegant stride,” said Illyan, mocking himself.

  What is he up to? Self deprecation isn’t something he is known for. He continued while they walked, still smiling. “I believe you usually meet with Gillian to go over your household’s administration, correct?”

  “Yes,” said Elyse, taken aback. “How do you know that?” One Above, is he spying on me?

  “Oh, it is nothing, Your Majesty. I find it convenient to know many people’s schedules in case I have a need to contact them about a most crucial matter. For instance, did you know that every day about this time, after his morning duties, General Grayer retreats to a small room in the back of the armory where he gorges himself on a plate of pastries? I find it quite humorous that such a hard man could have such a childish vice.” He paused. “I could go on all day, you know, on the personal habits of your subjects. But that is not what I wished to speak with you about. My concerns are far more pressing.”

  “I don’t mean to discount your concerns, but you know that these things are meant to be discussed openly in council.”

  “I agree, Your Majesty, but I’m sure you understand that with the all the confusion of the council chambers as of late, very little is properly addressed.”

  I’m sure that was meant to be a slight against me.

  “It seems that many of my pleas, despite their volume, are overshadowed by those with a greater flair for presentation,” continued Illyan.

  “Well, you may always set up a private appointment. I’m sure Gillian could find a spot for us to meet at a more opportune...”

  Illyan interrupted. “I beg your pardon, Your Majesty, but I have tried for several months to do just that, but it seems your tight schedule is hard to break into. I joked that someone as small as I would only need a little of your time but your steward was quick to point out that your time was too precious to waste. I believe you had an appointment with the seamstress that day,” said Illyan in a dry tone. “Don’t worry; I understand the importance of a new dress when speaking with nobles,” he added with a sneer.

  Elyse did not know if she should apologize for the insult he felt, or if she should point out that as queen he had no right to chastise her for her use of time. What crime is it to take a few minutes for myself? Am I not allowed any pleasure in this life? Rather than encourage his behavior, she said nothing.

  Illyan was not put off by her silence. “But please, let’s not waste any further time discussing such things. I’m assuming that you have not received word yet from your attempts to reach out to Duke Bronn and Duke Conroy?”

  Does he have a spy in my head? “No. As I mentioned today in council, it has been too early to receive any news.” Then she added. “I can have Gauge fill you in on today’s discussions since you were absent,” said Elyse with a smile. I can play this game too.

  If the comment bothered Illyan, he did not show it. “No, Your Majesty, I’m sure I can guess that the discussions resemble all too closely those from the meetings before. Really, each meeting these past few weeks has become quite easy to predict. I’m sure you have been able to guess who will say what and when they will say it, too. Yes, I will take it from your look you agree.

  “To be blunt, Your Majesty, I came to urge you into action, real action that is. Preparation for this war is crucial and I promise you there will be a war.” He paused, punctuating the last word. “I will not talk to you about your decisions with Conroy and Bronn, though I vehemently disagree with them. Those things are done. No, instead I must talk to you about what should have been done some time ago.”

  Elyse felt put off by the short man. In their last conversation he attempted to persuade her through intimidation and this time he lectured to her as if she were a child. Not even Gauge, her closest advisor took such liberty and Illyan’s tone began to grate on her. “Is this about your silly road, Illyan?”

  Illyan’s eyes narrowed but his voice remained calm. “That silly road will be an advantage when transporting supplies. But that is only one aspect of which I speak. There is much more. I thought it would be equally beneficial to build small warehouses along the road which the locals would be tasked with guarding. Then the supplies will have less distance to travel when needed. I have other ideas as well…”

  “I’m sure you do,” interrupted Elyse. “But what you are asking is ridiculous. The cost would be enormous and the merchant guild would benefit the most. Coincidentally you are part of the guild, correct?”

  “I never denied that the guild would be one of the groups to benefit, but I dare say you are missing the greater picture. Even if war is avoided, which I doubt it will be, the economic impact would be extraordinary for everyone,” said Illyan.

  “If your idea is as grand as you say it is, why has no other counselor shared your view? Why is it that you are the only one to have thought of such an idea when Cadonia has been around for hundreds of years?” said Elyse, feeling confident in her argument.

  “They do not support my decision because I have not allowed them to meddle in the details,” said Illyan, a bitter sound to his words. “If I were to do such a thing they would twist it into their own purpose.” He paused, smiling once again. “And I never claimed the idea was my own. In fact, Aurnon the First, himself, had thought
of such an idea shortly after conquering Cadonia but he was never able to see the plan through to fruition. If I recall, it was about that time that he left Cadonia and marched back to Quoron to dispose of Sacrynon’s Scepter. Of course,” he paused, “we both know he didn’t do a very good job of that, did he?”

  Elyse tensed but collected herself quickly enough. “Well, it is destroyed now.”

  Illyan rubbed his chin. “Yes, I guess it is. I do find it interesting that an instrument of power so strong that Sacrynon himself could not control the effect it had on him could have been destroyed by his former pupil. And with Master Amcaro in a weakened state, having already fought Nareash as I’ve heard.”

  Elyse felt a lump in her throat and she stopped. “High Mage Amcaro was a great man.”

  “Yes, he was. But just how great, I wonder?” asked Illyan, a smile dancing at the corner of his lips.

  Is it possible? No, not even he could know. He wants me to give something away. Elyse realized it was best to end the conversation. “I have heard your advice, and as always, I will take it into consideration. It’s possible that at some point later in my reign, I would be willing to embark on such a large project, but I’m afraid now isn’t the time.”

  Illyan began to chuckle which bothered Elyse even more. She was sure he could see the displeasure on her face and yet, he continued to laugh as he spoke. “Very well said. You almost sound as if you mean it. But, I’m afraid you just don’t understand, do you? You speak as if your reign has a future. I tell you, act now and you may stand a chance. Twiddle your thumbs in indecisiveness and your time upon the throne will be the shortest in this country’s history, and a worse failure than your father’s.”

  Elyse was shocked. “How dare you speak of my father? And for that matter, how dare you speak to me in such a tone? I’m warning you…”

  “Come now, Your Majesty. I speak nothing that is not true. I know your opinion was not so high of him that you could be completely blind to his ineffectiveness.”

  “I loved my father.”

  “I do not question your love for him. But a ruler must be quick and absolute in their decisions, something your father hadn’t been in years. I hate to see you emulate him in such a way.”

  “By what right do you think you may speak to me in such a way?!”

  “My Queen! Are you ok?” came a shout done the hallway. “Illyan, what are you doing here?”

  Elyse noticed that she and Illyan had stopped in a secluded portion of the long hallway, in the shadows of the entrance to a storage room. The realization made Elyse cringe as she had allowed herself to be cut off from the normal activity of the castle. Gauge must have understood the same thing. He was accompanied by two of her personal guards who approached at a brisk pace. “I’m fine,” she answered, meeting her advisor’s eyes.

  “Yes,” said Illyan cutting in. “Her Majesty and I were just discussing the imminent war.”

  “There is no imminent war,” said Gauge. “Saying such things only feeds the rumors among the people. Besides, you know that no one is allowed to speak to the queen in such a common manner.”

  “You are right. How silly of me to forget that such activity is kept exclusively for you. I don’t think I ever congratulated you for such an honor. Let me take the opportunity to do so now,” said Illyan with a mocking bow. “And as for your first point, I’ll let you tell Her Majesty about the interesting news that arrived just a couple of hours ago.”

  “How could you…”

  “Oh, it’s nothing.” He turned to Elyse and bowed. “Please excuse me. I hope you will forgive me for getting carried away in my passion for this great country. Maybe you will soon realize that few people have your best interests at heart,” he said while glancing at Gauge through the corner of his eye.

  Gauge did not miss the slight. “Are you saying you do?”

  Illyan smiled. “I care only for my country.” He met Elyse’s gaze. “May I have your leave, Your Majesty?”

  Elyse nodded. Illyan turned and left, his legs moving at a quickened pace.

  After a moment Gauge addressed her. “I’m sorry that I could not leave the council chambers soon enough. If I had known that…”

  “You were only acting on my command.”

  “Still, you must always be with your guards.”

  “I did not see them. Where were they?”

  Gauge turned to both men. Hadan and Willum each hung their eyes down in shame. “Someone had sent them a false message. I wouldn’t doubt that Illyan arranged the distraction. I’m already looking into it and if so, he will surely be punished for such a crime.”

  “Let it go. He talks and no one listens.”

  Gauge hesitated. “Very well, but I have told these two that their only orders are to come from me or you. They shall listen to no one else.”

  Elyse nodded.

  “Now I’m sorry, but you’re late for your appointment with Gillian. We must be on our way.”

  “Wait.”

  “Yes?”

  “Illyan spoke of news that just came in this morning. What is it?”

  “I’m sure it is something that can wait until you have seen to your duties….”

  “I will hear it now.”

  Gauge sighed. “As you command. It appears that we have finally received word in regards to Tomalt. He has called in many of his lords, especially those along our southern borders.”

  “And you do not think this is important? Why would you wait to tell me such a thing?”

  “I did not want to trouble you. All dukes have been known to do such things from time to time, Tomalt more than others. He has always been one to test his lords.”

  “That may have been well and good in times less strained but given the current situation, such an act can take on many other meanings.” Was Illyan right? Is war really inevitable? Maybe there are preparations that could be made now, though I promise none will involve new roads.

  Gauge responded as if reading her thoughts, “We mustn’t do anything that would instigate a confrontation with Tomalt.”

  “I don’t plan to do any such thing. However, I can’t just sit on my hands any longer and hope the problem will go away.”

  “Your Majesty, let us discuss such things after we meet with Gillian,” said Gauge taking a step forward, urging Elyse to follow.

  No, Gillian will do little to help me with such things and, in truth, neither will Gauge. Illyan said General Grayer is in the armory now and I can’t think of anyone better to talk to about such a matter. Yes, in fact, I daresay I should have spoken to him in person some time ago. “I will need you to meet with Gillian for me and handle my affairs. I must go speak with General Grayer and have his thoughts on this matter with Tomalt.”

  “Grayer? But I’m not sure where he is at the moment. Perhaps I can send a messenger to find him while you and I meet with Gillian together?”

  “No. You go on ahead. I’m sure to find the general in the armory.”

  “The armory?” said Gauge, appalled. “But such a place is not meant for a queen.”

  “And why not? It is part of my kingdom and in my very home. Don’t fret about my safety, if that is what concerns you. I promise, my guards will see to my every need, isn’t that so?” said the queen turning to each of them.

  They each perked up at being addressed by their queen, bowing solemnly in response. They responded in unison. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

  Gauge sighed, seeing it was no use to press the issue any further. “As you command.” He bowed and the two parted ways.

  * * *

  Although it was her first visit to the armory, Elyse had passed the large stone building countless times when walking about the castle. It was plain with hard edges. Twin eight-foot great swords that crossed each other over a monstrous shield hung above the door. Time had worn the luster off the sword hilts and the royal coat of arms.

  She took a deep breath upon her approach. Growing up, Elyse had no interest in swords and bows or any
other weapon for that matter. Jonrell had tried to teach her about such things, but it had been no use explaining them to a young princess. At first she tried to listen, if only for her brother’s sake, but she found each fact utterly boring and her mind constantly wandered to places of legend.

  One more thing that I ignored in error. But then again, I never thought he would leave me. He was supposed to be king. He was supposed to protect me so I wouldn’t have to worry about such things.

  The memory was bitter not only because her brother was no longer with her but because it made her angry at herself.

  Hadan opened the door to the armory and Elyse crossed the threshold, her eyes immediately going up to the ceiling where banners depicting the great battles of Aurnon the First in his conquering of both Thurum and Cadonia hung. Large columns supported the expansive armory in place of interior walls. To her right stood a forge, massive in size, where more than a dozen blacksmiths could work at once. A man with a knot of gray hair tied at base of his skull rang a hammer against a piece of glowing white metal. A boy no more than ten helped. To her left was an area used for fletching arrows. Again, most of the space was empty save for another old man tending to a quiver of arrows.

  Both men were focused on their work and neither noticed Elyse. Choosing not to disturb them, she walked through the rows of cracked bows, rusted armor, dulled swords, realizing how immense their task was. It brought a sinking feeling to her stomach.

  Everything is in disrepair. What would we use if war did break out?

  Continuing on through the wood, leather, and steel, she came upon General Grayer sitting at a small table at the back of the armory. On one side of the table was a stack of papers and on the other was a stack of pastries.

  Just as Illyan said.

  The thought of the devilish man knowing the habits of her subjects better than she did, gave her both chills and flashes of anger. She signaled Hadan and Willum to wait as she approached the general.