Storiesonline.net
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                             Always on Guard
                             by Jay Cantrell

Copyright© 2012 by Jay Cantrell


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Description: Jorgarn Elmwood’s only goal was to avoid the life of a priest. He would have settled for becoming a sailor, a soldier or possibly even a thief. So how does he manage to woo and lose a Princess, destroy a would-be empire, raise a new country, avert a civil war and wed a Queen? It’s all his stepmother’s fault.

Codes: rom het ESP violent
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Part 1

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Chapter 1



Jorgarn Elmwood stood stoically at the dock of Longview's largest port. No member of his family arrived to bid him farewell upon his leave taking. He wasn't surprised. It had seemed as if he had been on his own for years.

Jorgarn was thankful that his father, Lord Longview, had allowed the trip. It was a pilgrimage to his stepmother's home country to join the Royal Guards instead of the normal fate of a second son the priesthood. Jorgarn smiled grimly. He was not cut out for a life of religious devotion. At least someone had paid enough attention to him to notice that much. It had saved him from sneaking away in the middle of the night.

Jorgarn's mother had died giving birth to him – a loss the rest of his family, particularly his older brother, Pietro, seemed to place blame for squarely on Jorgarn's shoulders. He was almost 13 years old before the cook, kindly Mistress Nasso, pulled him aside to give him the whole story.

He would miss the household staff at the Longview Estate. Each of them had a hand in making sure Jorgarn was safe and happy. For the most part, they had succeeded. Jorgarn was a good-natured young man. His brother thought Jorgarn was too familiar with the household staff. Pietro preferred to lord over them, giving outlandish orders and then handing out harsh punishments when his orders were not obeyed to the smallest measure.

At least Jorgarn's stepmother had put a stop to that foolishness. Pietro was seven years older than Jorgarn and could best be described as feckless. Nevertheless, he was the eldest son of Lord Longview and Lady Marnit, the Lord's first wife and Jorgarn's mother. Thus, Pietro, despite his obvious failings and cruel demeanor, would be the next Lord Longview.

Although there was little love between the two, Jorgarn sometimes hoped his father would live forever, simply to deny Pietro a platform from which to perpetuate his wicked schemes and dreams. Jorgarn firmly believed that Pietro's first order would be the death of his younger brother and successor, should something happen to Pietro before providing a legitimate heir. Not that Jorgarn planned to make that death easy for Pietro. Although Jorgarn's departure would remove him from succeeding Pietro, he firmly believed Pietro's ill-temper eventually would lead his older brother to seek Jorgarn's death.

Jorgarn had, upon occasion, thought about removing Pietro from the line of succession. Jorgarn had for many years possessed the ability to slay his older brother but had always refrained from taking the ultimate step.

The reasons were numerous. Pietro's most egregious atrocities had always reached Jorgarn's ears secondhand. He had long ago convinced his brother to cease the folly of picking on the much larger, better-trained Jorgarn. So although he had heard numerous stories of Pietro's cruelty and ill temper, he had never personally witnessed one. He didn't doubt the stories were true and Jorgarn knew that should he ever witness Pietro in a dishonorable action, it would spell the end to his older brother's life.

The ramifications of Pietro's death also stilled Jorgarn's hand upon occasion. Jorgarn didn't fear retribution. He would willingly accept whatever fate was in store if it would rid the world of a menace such as Pietro. No, it was a fate worse than death that worried Jorgarn.

If Pietro should die, by his hand or by another's, Jorgarn would accede to a position that held no interest to him: that of Lord Longview's successor. As he grew closer to adulthood, the very thought of being forced to spend hours upon hours with his father caused Jorgarn's stomach to clench. But he would be duty-bound to accept the designation if Pietro were to perish.

In all likelihood Pietro's demise would precipitate a second death: Lord Longview's, for Jorgarn had little doubt if he was forced to spend much time with his father, he would eventually kill the man.

The thought of his father's death didn't bother Jorgarn much. Death was a part of life. But his father's passing would thrust Jorgarn into another role he didn't care for. The young man just coming into adulthood would become Lord Longview, a position he was ill trained to assume. Jorgarn, although young, was wise enough to recognize that his ascension to the leadership of the nation would not benefit anyone in the slightest. In fact, in his mind at least, its disastrous ramifications would be on par with Pietro's eventual succession.

So Jorgarn, to his chagrin, gave his tacit acceptance of Pietro's actions so long as no harm came to anyone Jorgarn cared about, much as the man's father, Lord Longview, had done.

Lord Longview had seen Pietro's behavior and it galled him. He wished for nothing more than to deliver Longview a land he had long overseen with what he viewed as kindness and generosity to a worthy successor. It was only his own poor luck that left him with a first-born son who was not that person - the same cruel luck that had cost him his lovely Marnit.

The Lord's ego could never admit that Marnit's death was as much his fault as anyone's. His wrath fell upon the hapless midwife who had presided at Jorgarn's birth. It had fallen on the groomsman who had suggested the midwife. It had fallen on other nameless, faceless persons. Sadly, it had also fallen on Jorgarn.

Nothing Jorgarn did either as a child or as a young man could garner his father's approval. Jorgarn's excellence in his school lessons only led to censure when his efforts fell ever so slightly short. Jorgarn's ability on a horse brought only castigation for pursuing such a "foolish hobby."

Of all the things Jorgarn attempted in failed efforts to gain his father's love, only his skill with weapons caught the man's eye. At first, he berated Jorgarn for learning war craft. It was an unfit skill for a priest, Lord Longview had claimed.

It took an animal to help Lord Longview appreciate his younger son. A boar, startled by some unseen force, came crashing through a street fair attended by Lord Longview and his second wife, Eslada. As the party dwellers scattered in frenzy and the men-at-arms' flails sent the scared animal careening toward the Lord and Lady who both stood frozen in fright Jorgarn plucked an arrow from his ever-present quill and killed the boar with a single shot through the eye. The charging animal died a scant four feet from Lord and Lady Longview.

The house servants and townsfolk praised Jorgarn for his marksmanship and cool head. Lady Eslada clasped the young man to her generous bosom and kissed him warmly on the cheeks and the forehead.

Lord Longview's ever-present scowl flickered for a mere moment as he cast a sidelong glance at his second son. He nodded curtly toward the boy and set out to find the source of the boar's agitation. Sadly, he already knew who was responsible the same person who was responsible for every nasty thing that happened in Longview Pietro, the heir to the lordship.

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As it stood, Jorgarn had decided he would flee the territory before joining the priesthood. The priests of Longview were a secretive lot, prone to espousing eternal damnation for the slightest of sins. Jorgarn frequently wondered if there was a single human frailty that wouldn't eventually lead to an eternity in the fiery underworld. The little he heard from the nation's religious leaders led him to doubt there was.

A Longview priest spent the first 15 years of his servitude, for Jorgarn viewed the life as nothing less than slavery, in complete solitude. The novice was not allowed to speak or even to visit another living soul during his years of silent contemplation.

Then he was sent forth to cleanse the world of sin, real or imagined. Jorgarn didn't wonder why religion played so little part in the daily lives of most citizens. The few priests who made it through the rigorous training were often slain in the first village they visited. Those who weren't killed outright were ignored. Still, it was tradition and tradition was not to be ignored.

Sin was alive and well in Longview, and from the stories Eslada had told him of Emertland, it was alive and well there, too.

In Emertland, devotion was a private matter. There were houses of worship of which there were few in Longview but the matter of which God to worship and how to pay one's tribute was left to the individuals. Eslada had explained that the Lords and Ladies of the realm often took the place of religious figures in the lands they governed.

It took only a few moments of contemplation for Jorgarn to decide that he would never find himself in a cleric's robe.

He had secured enough victuals to last him a few days and his skill with projectile weapons would feed him thereafter. He had hidden most of his armaments in a cave in the forest. He could not go without them. He had brought a young groomsman into his confidence out of necessity and made arrangements to procure his horse the night before his 15th birthday. Everything was set for his escape from the priesthood, from Longview and from his family's scorn.

So Jorgarn was surprised when his father and stepmother paid an early morning visit to his chambers the day before his birthday. He considered jumping from the window and trying to make his escape. It was but 16 hours earlier than planned but he knew the fall would either kill him outright or severely injure him. Grudgingly, he admitted Lord and Lady Longview into his sitting room. He could scarcely deny them admittance.

His father wore the look of disgust that always settled on his face. However, it was his stepmother's look that made Jorgarn pause.

Eslada had never been cruel to Jorgarn. He thought her kind but he never thought her especially nice, either. She had enough sense to despise Pietro but almost everyone, save the ne'er-do-wells who did his bidding in the hope of gaining future riches, despised Pietro. Eslada didn't win any prizes for that bit of wisdom.

After the episode with the boar, Eslada had requested that Jorgarn accompany her as her guard during her infrequent trips from the manor. Lady Eslada traveled rarely but when she did, Jorgarn's father had assigned him as her shield. It was better than many of the tasks his father had sent Jorgarn's way so he didn't mind. It gave him the opportunity to ride his horse and, although Lady Eslada was never in danger, it gave Jorgarn a sense of pride to know that his stepmother thought highly enough of him to specifically request that he protect her.

She had introduced him to two men who knew how to handle a sword and instructed him to take lessons with them. She had offered praise for Jorgarn's efforts but praise was so foreign to him that he didn't recognize it for what it was. It was only as he grew older that he believed that Lady Eslada actually might like him.

As usual, Lord Longview was brusque and to the point.

"As you know, it is tradition that the second son of the Lord joins the priesthood," he said.

Jorgarn gulped noticeably but found his voice.

"Unfortunately, Lord Longview, I will not be participating in that tradition," Jorgarn said. He already stood as tall as his father and was a head taller than his brother. Jorgarn had decided that if his father sought to make him go with the priests, there would be bloodshed and Longview would have a new Lord earlier than expected.

"No, you won't," Longview said in an even voice. "Against my judgment, Lady Eslada has made other arrangements for you. You will travel to Emertland where you will serve its King. You leave in two hours. I trust you can be ready by then."

Lord Longview turned to leave but Lady Eslada closed the door and stayed behind.

She smiled and touched Jorgarn's cheek affectionately.

"I knew the priesthood was never for you, my dear," Eslada said. "Unfortunately, the post you are best suited for is denied to you as well. You will never be heir to the lordship. It was something I knew you would abide in order to avoid the priesthood."

Jorgarn tilted his head.

"Sadly, it means I must provide a child who can claim the lordship should ill befall Pietro," she said wearily. "But it will be worth it to secure your escape. My uncle is King Landor. In our country, the second son joins the military. He has agreed, with only my word, to accept you into his personal guard. I hope that my arrangements meet with your satisfaction. I thought them better than your other plan."

Jorgarn's mouth widened and his eyes widened but Eslada merely smiled sweetly.

"I am as friendly with the house workers as you are, Jorgarn," she said simply. "We both have the ability to remain somewhat invisible when it is necessary. I learned of your plans shortly after you made them. I suspected them even before you did. The military is a better place for a man of your talents, my dear. I think you will be happy there."

Eslada leaned forward and gave Jorgarn a soft kiss on his lips.

"I do pray," she added, "if something should happen to your father, that you will rescue me before Pietro has sworn fealty to the Emperor. I should not like to become your sister-in-law."

Jorgarn nodded mutely. Eslada was about 10 years older than Jorgarn and only three years older than Pietro. Jorgarn doubted Pietro would marry Eslada but he had no doubt that Pietro would find a use for her.

"I will, Lady," Jorgarn said when he found his voice. "Please know that I will do my best to protect you in the future as I have in the past. You have my word on that."

"Your word is all I require, young master Jorgarn," Eslada said lightly as she swept Jorgarn into a hug. "Although I am too young to be your mother, I do love you like a brother. If it weren't for my promise to secure your escape, I would gladly join you. At least with you in Emertland, I have hope that my cousin Denae will not meet the same fate as I. Another uncle of mine, Torbert, is Captain of the Guards. You will like him and he will like you. I am sure of it. Be well, Jorgarn. I truly believe this is the last we will see one another for a long while."

Eslada gave Jorgarn another warm embrace and exited the room hurriedly. Jorgarn set out to gather all the belongings he had stashed away in order to flee.

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The journey from Longview to Emertland by ship was not long but it was arduous. As when around his friends who worked in the kitchen at Longview Manor, Jorgarn could see no sense in sitting idly by watching while others worked.

After stowing his belongings below deck, Jorgarn approached the captain to inquire if there was anything he could safely do to assist the crew. The query brought the captain up short. During his 40 years on the water, he had transported many a noble son or daughter. Jorgarn Elmwood was unique.

First, he brought no entourage and carried only a few belongings. He did not expect the crew to tote locker after locker aboard the ship. The young man arrived alone and carried all his belongings on board in one trip. He did not insist that the captain give up his quarters for the short passage, nor did he insist on being provided ale, wine or food from the steward in his first breath.

Now he was asking if he could assist the crew. It was no wonder, the captain thought, the young man was being sent away. He seemed to be far too decent a person to get along with lords and ladies. The old captain appraised the young man earnestly. He wasn't pasty white and frail like the other noblemen who had booked passage on his ship. The man actually looked as though he might have done a day's work or two in his life.

Still, if Jorgarn wanted to work, so be it. It wouldn't lessen the price of his passage and it would give the captain a chance to make up for all the times he had been forced to place his belongings in the hold because a passenger insisted upon using his cabin.

"Fine," the man growled. "Go with Trioset there. You can help him with the lines."

Jorgarn nodded and followed the young man in question. The captain kept a close eye on the young noble and, by the time the ship made port in Emertland, he wished that Jorgarn would have taken a calling to the sea instead of whatever fate his life held.

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Sir Torbert, Captain of the Emertland Guard, expected a horse-drawn carriage and a group of 20 riders to bring Master Jorgarn to the castle. He was surprised when a fit, sunburned young man with unruly hair and a dirty cape presented himself with "Lady Eslada's regards."

His niece's letters had told him that Jorgarn would be unlike any scion Torbert had schooled before but it still didn't paint an adequate picture of the boy in front of him.

"Jorgarn Elmwood," Jorgarn said as he stood tall and straight. "Son of Lord Longview and Lady Marnit, stepson of Lady Eslada, at your service, Sir Torbert. I apologize for my appearance. I expected that I would be able to find you after I cleaned."

"Been in a scrape already, boy?" Torbert asked. The dirty cape and bloody hands were a sure sign that the man in front of him had stopped off for a tankard or five of ale before arriving.

"No, Sir Torbert," the young man said with embarrassment. "I assisted the sailors with passage. It was a bit more involved than I expected it to be."

"Trouble at sea?" Torbert asked.

"No, Sir," Jorgarn replied. "No trouble. I just hate to stand around and watch. I heard the crew was short two hands, so I offered."

He smiled ruefully.

"I am beginning to wish I hadn't," Jorgarn said. "A sailor's life is a hard life. I'm glad the passage was short. I'm not certain I would be able to get out of bed tomorrow if it were longer."

Torbert laughed.

"You still might not," Torbert said seriously. "It is early in the day and I expect you to participate in the rest of the lessons. I need to see where you are in your training. Who is your master trainer?"

Jorgarn stared at the man.

"I, uh, I suppose you are, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn answered. Two older men from the village had done his training. It was anything but structured. "I have no formal training of which to speak. I have no master trainer. Two gentries from my homeland taught me when they found time."

Sir Torbert's face creased in a frown. It was an expression Jorgarn had seen on his father's face many times.

"Then you will be extremely sore in the morning, if you manage to survive today," he said as he turned away. "You'll bunk in the second house. Your training begins after our noon meal."

Jorgarn lowered his head and went to find his accommodations.

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The rooms were nicer than Jorgarn expected. Then he remembered that his companions were all second sons of noblemen of Emertland. He was aware of how young nobles acted. He had watched Pietro cut a wide swath through Longview without repercussions. While Jorgarn was chastised for every fault real or imagined Pietro could do was he pleased without rebuke.

It took Jorgarn only moments to realize that the people he shared a dwelling with were cut from the same cloth as Pietro.

"Beggars and commoners are down the way," a snide voice told him as he entered the common area. "This is for nobility. Or are you here to clean for us?"

Two other voices joined in laughter.

"I am Jorgarn, born of Lord and Lady Longview," Jorgarn replied. "I am in the correct place. Which room is unoccupied?"

The three men looked at Jorgarn carefully. He was taller than they were and much broader. However, there were three of them and one of him. The newcomer needed to learn the hierarchy quickly.

"None of the rooms are unoccupied," the first man said. "You can sleep out here until you earn a room."

The man's two companions nodded approvingly. All the men were unarmed because it was tradition for the guardsmen in training to place their swords beside the doors to their rooms when they were inside.

Jorgarn nodded thoughtfully.

"Then I suppose I will take one of your rooms," he said. "Which one of you would like to give up his lodgings?"

The two men who hadn't spoken looked at one another. Master Symington was good with a sword but he would be no match for the newcomer in unarmed combat. The man must have outweighed their leader by 50 pounds or more.

"I think not," Symington replied casually. "Now, be a good boy and fetch me some wine. It's almost time for you to serve our noon repast."

The two men behind Symington didn't even see Jorgarn move. They cast a glance toward one another and, by the time they glanced forward again, the newcomer had Symington by the neck and was holding him off the ground with one hand.

"I would suggest you might want to rethink your answer, ' Jorgarn said. He didn't appear to be straining in the least. "You two, stay out of this. I might panic and snap this poor man's neck if either of you move. We wouldn't want that, now would we?"

The others, Master Fieth and Master Renoit, nodded and stayed put. Instead, it was another voice that almost caused Jorgarn to commit permanent damage to Symington.

"What's this?" a voice said behind Jorgarn. Fieth and Renoit snapped to attention and Jorgarn recognized the voice as Sir Torbert.

"I was earning my room," Jorgarn said. "I was led to believe that one of these three had to die before one would be unoccupied."

The men's eyes went wide.

"We were just having a bit of fun," Fieth said. His voice sounded like a whiny and Jorgarn took an immediate dislike to it.

"As am I," Jorgarn said. "I personally find it entertaining to put in their proper place those who think too highly of themselves."

"You might put him down, Master Jorgarn," Torbert said lightly. "He seems to be turning blue."

"As you wish, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn replied. He didn't lower Symington to the ground. Instead, Jorgarn simply opened his hand and the man fell unceremoniously onto his backside.

Torbert tried and failed to stifle a laugh.

"Tut, tut," Jorgarn said to the fallen man. "Now that our misunderstanding is cleared up, perhaps you could point me to an unoccupied room."

The man on the floor glared at Jorgarn but didn't speak. Jorgarn wasn't certain the man would be able to speak for a while. He had grasped the man's throat pretty tightly and already a red handprint was starting to rise. Jorgarn was positive it would be a nasty bruise by morning.

"As I said, I am Jorgarn, born of Lord and Lady Longview," he announced again. "I have been directed to this accommodation by the Captain of the Guard. Please direct me to an unoccupied room. I do not have time to dawdle and I do not take kindly to arrogance."

Renoit pointed to a doorway directly behind Jorgarn.

"That one," he said. "No one stays there but it will have to be cleared. It has someone else's belongings in it."

Renoit unconsciously glanced toward the floor where Symington sat in a heap.

"Very well," Jorgarn replied. "I will toss those things out here. Their owner may retrieve them at his leisure."

After securing Symington's release, Sir Torbert had stood back and watched to see how things would play out. Renoit's glance had told him who had appropriated more space than he was allotted but it was no surprise to Torbert. Symington's skill with a sword allowed him to dictate things in other areas.

He would have to keep Symington away from Jorgarn until the new trainee was better versed or it could be fatal to the young man.

"Does this room have a key?" he heard Jorgarn ask.

"We do not lock the doors," Renoit said. "It is a matter of trust between fellow guardsmen."

Jorgarn's eyes narrowed.

"Neither you nor I is a guardsman," he said. "We are in training to be guardsmen. Furthermore, there is no trust between you and me. I will lock my door. What the rest of you do is up to you. Where is the key?"

Again, his two cohorts glanced at Symington who watched Jorgarn with anger but didn't speak.

"Very well," Jorgarn replied. He casually picked up the items in his new room and deposited them roughly in the common area. The farther from the door the item laid, the more rudely Jorgarn tossed it out. When he was finished, he went to the next room and opened the door.

"That's not your area," Fieth cried.

"I will go room to room until I find the key to mine," Jorgarn answered. "I will toss everyone's belongings into this room until I locate what I'm looking for."

His face took on a harsh expression.

"You can trust me," he continued. "I won't damage or break much."

"Symington's room," Renoit said as he pointed to the room farthest from the entrance.

Jorgarn nodded and started across the room. Symington seemed to find his nerve at once. He stood to block Jorgarn's path.

"You do not need a key and you won't enter my chambers," he croaked. He seemed upset that his voice had faltered.

Jorgarn hazarded a glance at Sir Torbert who was standing expressionless. When he saw no response, Jorgarn grabbed Symington's shoulders and drove his knee squarely into the man's privates. Symington dropped like a rock and vomited on the floor.

"I do need a key," Jorgarn said in a calm voice. "And I will have a key. If you do not provide me the key, I will take the key. If you try to stop me, I will hurt you. I told you, I am not one for foolishness and I have put up with all the heavy-handed nonsense that I'm going to in my life. Now, you may go to your room and get me what I ask for or I will go there and find it. Do we understand one another?"

"I'll kill you," Symington said in a low voice. "The first chance I get, you're dead."

"Yes, yes," Jorgarn said with a smile. He was certain that Torbert had heard the threat but the man gave no indication of interceding. "Now you understand why I want a key. At least when you kill me it won't be while I'm asleep. You seem like that type. Now, how is it going to be?"

Symington seethed but walked gingerly toward his room. He disappeared for a moment then returned and tossed the key at Jorgarn's feet. In the next instant, Symington grabbed his sword from the mount beside his door.

"Halt!" Sir Torbert said loudly. Symington ignored the command and stalked across the floor. Jorgarn had knelt to retrieve his key but he jerked his head up when he heard Sir Torbert's command. He gulped when he saw Symington wasn't paying attention to his superior.

Jorgarn started to stand but had another thought. Symington held his sword as if it were a club. There was no grace in his motions. He intended to get close enough to Jorgarn to slash him. Moving as quickly as he could, Jorgarn took two hops forward then he shot his leg out and caught Symington just behind the knee.

Jorgarn's movements had surprised Symington. He had threatened enough unarmed men to know that their first response was to move backward. When the hard boot caught Symington on the back of his leg, his balance was lost. He toppled forward with his sword clattering across the floor. Before he could react, he found his shoulders pinned down and the newcomer sitting across his chest.

The man was looking down on him with disdain and shaking his head sadly.

"I apologize, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. "But if this is the best you have to offer, I fear my time will be wasted here. Do you train your armed guards to attack unarmed men?"

Sir Torbert's mouth was set in a line.

"I didn't think so, Sir," Jorgarn continued. "I suspect this is a portion of his training that he learned elsewhere. If you'd like, I can snap his neck like a chicken's."

"That will not be necessary, Master Elmwood," Sir Torbert said. Like Symington, Torbert had been surprised by Jorgarn's actions all of his actions. Sir Torbert was not used to surprises and he loathed them. "However, should the need arise again, you have my permission. Now, I think we need to find new housing for Master Symington. I think his time here has not been used wisely. If you will let him rise, he can pack the belongings in his room. I think it is time he was moved to the guard house."

Jorgarn thought the man he held pinned to the ground smirked at the news.

"I am to be promoted to the Noble Guard?" Symington asked. It didn't make sense to Jorgarn but he understood the ways of life were different for nobles.

"Promoted?" Torbert asked rhetorically. "I suppose so. Your duties will not change. You will, however, train with the permanent guard staff. You have not earned a ranking in the Noble Guard. But be warned, young Symington, the guards do not tolerate foolishness. If you try what you tried with Master Longview there, you will not only be disarmed, you will be killed."

The smirk on Symington's face evaporated.

"Commoners?" he seethed. "I am to be housed with commoners? My father will hear of this."

"I expect he shall," Torbert replied. "I'm certain my brother will alert your father to the change of status and the reasons behind it. We've had this discussion before, have we not?"

Symington's eyes closed slightly and Jorgarn felt the energy leave the man's body.

"Yes, Sir Captain," Symington said. "Perhaps if Master Longview and I apologize to the other, we can put this behind us?"

"I think not," Torbert said. "We went that route last time with young Anlot. I believe your apology lasted only until it became possible for you to harm him. I should have had you lashed then. But I had only second-hand accounts. I witnessed this firsthand. You will receive 10 lashes and a transfer. I will, however, let you regale your father with your promotion. The King will be made aware of the circumstances."

Torbert put his hand on Jorgarn's shoulder and Jorgarn arose.

"Gather the belongings in your allotted area," Torbert said again. "You may transfer those before your lashes."

Symington glanced at his belongings that Jorgarn had strewn across the common area.

"These can't be your things," Torbert said as he noticed the gaze. "They were in young Longview's area so they must be his. Master Jorgarn, please pick up your things and place them back in your room. The rooms are assigned by seniority. Master Symington's room will be offered to Master Fieth. If he declines, it will be offered to Master Renoit. It is yours if neither speaks up."

Both Fieth and Renoit glanced to Jorgarn for a clue as to his wishes.

"The room by the door suits me well," Jorgarn said. "I like to be close to the exit in case of emergency. If they don't want it, it can go to the next newcomer."

"I'll take the room," Fieth said quickly once he saw he wouldn't have to fight Jorgarn for it. "I am now the senior trainee in this quad."

Fieth looked as if he expected Jorgarn to kiss his feet. If he did, he was sorely disappointed. Instead, the newest trainee simply walked back to his room.

Sir Torbert followed behind him.

"You forgot the things in the common room," he chided gently.

Jorgarn looked up in surprise.

"Those are not my things," he said. "But you already know that."

"I do and they are," Torbert said. "I assign rooms. I assigned you this room. Those things were in here so they are yours. I noticed you did not bring many belongings with you. Although most of Symington's clothes will be too small for you, his cloak will fit and the purse will go a long way toward outfitting you."

"I have coin," Jorgarn protested.

"You have coin from Longview, I fear," Torbert said shaking his head. "Or the Emperor's coin. We do not use that here. We are sovereign. You will not find much use for the coins you brought. I will attempt to trade them with some of the sailors in port, but I fear you might take a loss. May I inspect your sword before we begin training?"

"Of course, Sir Captain," Jorgarn said quickly as he pulled the sheathed sword from his long pack. "I hope it will be satisfactory."

Torbert suspected Jorgarn's sword would be no more satisfactory than the other noble trainee's. Most young noblemen brought their ceremonial swords with them swords that would be shattered during the first engagement with a real enemy. Of course, most noblemen thought the Noble Guard to be a ceremonial post, a spot where they could meet a young noblewoman and achieve success through her family.

Jorgarn didn't seem to be of that sort. When Torbert examined the sword, it was impressive. It was far from ceremonial, although a quick glance into his pack showed the ornate hilt of another sword.

"Very nice, Master Longview," Torbert said. He glanced up to see the frown on Jorgarn's face. "Question?"

"Uh, well, yes, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn replied. "I have been addressed as young Longview, Master Elmwood, young Jorgarn and various other means. That leaves me unsure how to address others. Is there an appropriate way to speak to someone?"

Torbert laughed. The man who had seemed so worldly and strong just moments before was suddenly acting his age.

"Your name presents us somewhat of a problem," Torbert said. "In Emertland, we have one name. For example, I am Sir Lord Torbert Doloran, Knight Protector of the Crown. I hold the lordship of an area called Weltin. The Dolorans are the royal family. Cruit Symington is the son of Lord Symington. Elobert Fieth is the son of Lord Fieth. Noble names are based on the area they hold, although it is possible for them to change. You are Jorgarn Elmwood of Longview, Squire Protector to the Manor. At least that is how my niece, your stepmother, introduced you to us in her letters."

"Squire Protector?" Jorgarn asked. "I went places with Lady Eslada on her travels. It was my job to protect her but it wasn't a title. Or at least I don't think it was."

Torbert laughed. He liked this boy and could see why his niece thought so highly of him. There was no artifice about Jorgarn Elmwood of Longview, Squire Protector.

"It seems my niece made a title for you," Torbert said. "I gather that she included things in her letters that were unimportant and left out some important ones. For instance that sword, where did you acquire it?"

"One of the men who trained me made it for me," Jorgarn stated. "He made armor, among other things."

"It is well crafted and well used," Torbert replied. "These men, do they have names?"

"Gorin and Melodart," Jorgarn answered. "I believe they were once soldiers before coming to Longview. They and Lady Eslada helped me with your language."

Torbert's laughter caught Jorgarn off guard.

"How did you come to meet these men," he asked with glee.

"Lady Eslada introduced me to them," Jorgarn replied. "It was perhaps five years ago, a few months after I killed a boar with my bow."

"You have trained for five years with Gorin and Melodart," Torbert said as he shook his head and pounded his fist on his thigh. "Let me guess, those two old reprobates told you how to deal with young Symington?"

Torbert saw displeasure in the young man's eyes at his characterization of Jorgarn's mentors.

"No offense meant, my boy," Torbert said. "Gorin and Melodart are Noble Guards. They left us, well, about five years ago. No one really knew where they went or why they left. They simply handed in their papers, returned their cloaks and departed. Lady Eslada is my sister's daughter. Gorin and Melodart were her protectors when she was younger, until the time she married your father."

A look of hostility passed over Torbert's face.

"I understand your sentiments, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. "But better Lord Longview than his heir. I seem to remember that they were coming here to look for a match for Pietro and came home with one for my father instead."

Torbert waved his hand dismissively but shook his head.

"I believe I should simply send you out there and let Symington have a go at you," Torbert said with a gleam in his eye. "No formal training, you said. To think, I was worried that Symington would hack you to pieces. I should have known when I saw you holding him up by his throat. Gorin taught you that, didn't he?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"And the foot sweep came from Melodart?" Torbert asked.

"Uh, actually, Lady Eslada taught me that," Jorgarn said with embarrassment. "She used it on my brother once when he was being particularly insubordinate to her."

Torbert's smile widened.

"Good for her," he said. "She was always feisty. That's why she wound up married to your father. My nephew couldn't find anyone here who could handle her. At least he didn't send her to be your brother's wife. That would have been worse."

Jorgarn smiled slightly.

"Oh, I don't know," Jorgarn said. "I would be the heir to the lordship because you can wager that one of us would have killed Pietro. Lady Eslada would have her choice to either return home or stay as the Lord Mother."

Jorgarn's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Which brings me to something I need to relay unto you, Sir, before my training commences," he continued. "I gave my solemn vow that I would return to protect Lady Eslada should something befall my father. I will keep that vow even if it means my training here would end."

Torbert nodded.

"You would have 50 men at your back," he said as he put his hand on Jorgarn's shoulder. "Including me. Eslada is one of many nieces but she is my favorite niece. I believe the King feels the same way. Any harm to Lady Eslada likely would be considered an act of war against the Kingdom of Emertland."

Jorgarn decided he needed to make sure his idiot brother understood that fact.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by Lee.



-------

Chapter 2



A few minutes into Jorgarn's first lesson, Sir Torbert was tempted to promote him the Noble Guards immediately. He held himself in check, if only barely.

It was clear that Jorgarn was head and shoulders above the other trainees some of whom had spent two years in the program. But the Noble Guard wasn't the true goal of many of the young nobleman. For numerous reasons, few made the transition to full status.

Many of the young men faltered initially and left the program within a few days. Few were prepared for the rigors of training and some were unable or unwilling to put forth the effort to adapt.

Others would complete the training but advance no further. Their fathers or sometimes their mothers (because Emertland was not a patriarchal society as Longview and the other principalities of The Empire of Swar were) bought them a commission in a standing army abroad. Some men took different paths, acquiring a landed wife or a wife with future claims to land.

For a multitude of reasons, the Noble Guards consisted mainly of older men. For that reason, it had been difficult for the King and Sir Torbert to present a viable candidate to assume the vaunted position of Knight Protector to the Heir (or Heiress, as the case might be).

Sir Torbert had been the obvious choice for his brother, King Landor. Not only was Torbert qualified to be Knight Protector, Landor considered Torbert to be his closest friend. It was a foregone conclusion that the next young man promoted to the Noble Guards would have the inside track at being named Knight Protector for Princess Denae.

It was a prospect that the princess did not relish. She had surreptitiously watched the trainees and she was singularly unimpressed. Some of the commoners were much more capable but it was not possible for a commoner to be her Knight Protector.

She dreaded the thought of having a simpering fool like Elobert Fieth or Chicote Renoit as her protector. She would go without before dealing with one of those men. There were really only two candidates she would consider as her confidante and neither set her heart afire: Cruit Symington, her stepmother's favorite, and Traymer Ducotte, a mere boy of 13 who would be presented with the next class.

By tradition, Denae would be expected to name her choice at first convocation after her 15th birthday. But she knew she could put off the choice if she so chose. Her uncle, Sir Torbert, would act as her protector or appoint someone he felt was worthy should the need arise. But sometime in the next year, she would have to select the man who would be closer to her than her future husband would be.

-------

After an hour of training, Sir Torbert knew Master Jorgarn was gaining nothing from the session. None of the aristocrats could come anywhere near him with a sword and probably would have difficulty if they were given a bow. After a brief respite, Torbert reluctantly moved Jorgarn to work with the commoners.

Some of the young non-noble trainees showed real promise as soldiers and as guards. At least there, Jorgarn would be able to demonstrate his full prowess. There are always problems mixing ranks. The first two or three training sessions were a waste because the young noble was often reluctant to even acknowledge the commoner let alone spar with them.

Torbert was pleasantly surprised when Jorgarn not only spoke with the other trainees, he accepted suggestions from them and offered suggestions in return. He even gently admonished one non-noble for going easy on him. It was a spirited session that brought a halt to other sessions as the trainees and Guards gathered around to watch.

Notably absent from the cheering throng was Cruit Symington, who took the opportunity to try to reclaim some of the possessions that Sir Torbert had given away.

-------

Far above the courtyard, two young women watched the proceedings with interest.

"Oh, my!" one of them exclaimed when she saw a sword fly out of one of the trainee's hands.

"Oh, my, indeed," the other agreed. "I believe your fellow, Pernice, is going to be unhappy tonight. That is the second time it has happened. You will have to be extra nice to him this evening."

The first young woman laughed but blushed.

"Perhaps not," the second one interrupted. "Look, Pernice is smiling and shaking his head. He doesn't appear angry at all."

The first woman strained to her tiptoes. She wished she were as tall as her companion at times like these.

"He is!" she agreed. "That must be a trainer."

"Too young," the second stated. "He is not from the noble side. I'm sure each and every one of those louts has been paraded in front of me. I would wager he is a new recruit. He appears to be quite competent."

The first young woman glanced to her friend.

"Quite competent is a rare compliment from you," she joked. "I will have to ask Pernice about him during our after-dinner stroll. I'm certain you have an attendant who might like to spend time with a competent young guard."

"I believe all my friends are accounted for," Princess Denae rejoined. "Perhaps I need another friend."

"Perhaps you might like to spend a little time with him yourself," another voice said, startling the two.

Denae turned to face her stepmother.

"Perhaps I would," she said. "It is no business of yours."

Queen Lorida bristled. It galled her that no child of hers would be the heir. If her parents had been aware of the backward thinking of Emertland, she would never have been offered to the King after his wife's death. But that was years past and Queen Lorida had a nice life. She had taken to court life with no difficulty and she had even learned to control her husband, for the most part.

The only real area of contention was Princess Denae. The Princess had rebuffed every attempt for Lorida to befriend her and the King had summarily forbidden the Queen from making decisions that affected Denae.

That didn't stop the Queen from offering suggestions, however.

"I have requested Master Symington's presence at dinner tonight," she announced. "Word has arrived that he was promoted today to full guard status."

Denae rolled her eyes. The Queen was insistent that Symington be invited to dinner at least once per week. And for his part, Master Symington had been extremely charming and well behaved. Yet there was something lurking beyond the surface that Denae found troubling. He was too smooth, too glib, too interested in the things that held her interest.

She was certain that her stepmother was trying to dictate a decision that belonged rightfully to the Princess, a decision that Lorida had no business interfering with. Denae only wished she had other options.

-------

Jorgarn ate his night meal in silence.

Neither Fieth nor Renoit attempted to make conversation. Each was a bit worried that Jorgarn would kill them where they sat. They had never seen a man move so quickly or one who possessed so much skill with such a variety of weaponry.

They had watched in awe as Jorgarn had decimated all the trainees. Then he had held his own against warriors 10 years his senior. He was definitely someone they didn't want to anger. Even though he was friendly with the common trainees, they didn't mention it.

Additionally, Symington's absence at the sparring matches did not go unnoticed by his cronies. They had worried, correctly as it turned out, that Symington would sneak back into their domicile and create mischief. Luckily for them and more than likely for Symington the pair had gotten back earlier than Jorgarn and caught Symington trying to pick the lock.

It was only an appeal to Symington's strong sense of self-preservation that led the man to leave well enough alone and to sneak out before Jorgarn got back.

Fieth and Renoit breathed a sigh of relief when Jorgarn arose silently and washed his bowl.

"Tell Symington if he tries to open my door again, I'll cut his hand off," Jorgarn said as he unlocked his door. "Then I'll cut your hands off. If he wants his things back, tell him to come to me and get them."

Both young men gulped but nodded when Jorgarn's gaze fell upon them.

"Good night then," he said, entered his chamber, locked the door and fell asleep.

-------

Symington was his usual smooth self for most of the dinner. The Queen directed the conversation and kept it focused on the man's new posting. The subject of self-promotion was one in which Symington reveled.

The King and Princess were notable only by their silence. After the plates were cleared, the King spoke.

"So, I understand most of the trainees tried their hand at the new recruit," King Landor said in a conversational tone. His tone lulled the Queen into believing it was an off-handed question. "How did you fare?"

Symington's face had reddened at the initial statement. The question didn't help anything. But it was the look on the King's face that caused Symington to go white.

"I didn't face him, Sire," Symington replied.

The Princess picked up on the change in temperament immediately.

"Really?" she asked. "And why not? You've always been anxious to tell us of your prowess before. I thought the newcomer would be another you would try to prove yourself to."

"Denae," the Queen chided. "Master Symington is our guest."

"He is your guest," the King corrected. "And it is a valid question. Did young Jorgarn's skill give you pause?"

Denae at least had a name to put with the distant face.

"A commoner give Master Symington pause?" the Queen asked. "Really, dear."

Denae caught the look her father gave to her. She didn't understand it, but she saw it.

"Oh, Jorgarn is no commoner," the King said. "Is he, Master Symington?"

"I have never heard of his estate, Sire," Symington said. "I am not certain his family is landed."

"Oh, I'm certain," the King replied. "Do you remember my niece, Eslada, Denae?"

"Yes, Father," Denae answered carefully. "She married a foreign noble."

The King smiled and patted his daughter's hand.

"Young Jorgarn is her stepson," he announced. "His father is Lord Longview. It is part of the Empire of Swar. Jorgarn is second in line to rule that land. Eslada speaks very highly of the young man. In fact, I've decided to invite him to dine with us tomorrow if his schedule allows."

Two faces at the table dropped noticeably. One face brightened into a smile. The King's gaze remained constant.

"I'm sure he will have many stories to tell us of Eslada," Denae said merrily.

"I'm not certain I've met her," the Queen stated.

"No, I don't suppose you have," King Landor replied. "She was always full of mischief. Torbert told me that young Jorgarn used a tactic today she demonstrated to him something about dealing with an armed attacker while unarmed. It was quite impressive, from what I've heard."

Symington's gaze dropped to his lap. He had blundered into a confrontation with a favored son of the King's niece. He would have to come clean.

"Yes, it was impressive," Symington said with what he hoped was sufficient remorse. "Unfortunately, I saw it firsthand. He and I got off on the wrong foot. He didn't take kindly to teasing and he attacked me. I lost my composure and went after him with a sword. Happily, he stopped me before I could do something unthinkable."

"He attacked you?" the Queen raged. "I don't wish to dine with someone who would do that."

"Then you are excused to eat in your room tomorrow night," the King said dismissively. "I've heard Jorgarn suffers fools lightly, Master Symington. I'm certain the lesson you learned today was probably less costly than the next one you'll have to learn. I understand you are to receive 10 lashes in the morning."

Symington's face reddened again.

"Less than I deserve for attacking an unarmed man," he said through gritted teeth.

"Then I hope that this Jorgarn will receive the same," the Queen said loudly. "In fact, I insist upon it. He apparently attacked an unarmed man, too."

The King sighed deeply.

"It is in times like this I am glad you don't wield any real power, Lorida," he said in a tired voice. "Master Elmwood showed remarkable restraint from what I've heard. As you can see, aside from a bruise around his neck, young Symington is unharmed. From what I've been told, there were at least two occasions and possibly more where Jorgarn would have been justified in killing him. Incidentally, Jorgarn was also unarmed. That is the difference. Master Symington had the chance to defend himself equally. He did not, however, have the ability to do it. If you will excuse me, I believe I would like to speak to Denae in private."

The King and Princess left a stunned Queen and Emertland Guard behind them.

-------

"I do not want to get your hopes up," the King told his daughter when they adjourned to his private study. "Young Jorgarn cannot be your Knight Protector. But it was fun to tweak that simpleton and your stepmother. She is a bit transparent, don't you think?"

"Why can't Jorgarn be my Knight?" she asked puzzled. She was under the impression that anyone in the Noble Guard was eligible.

"He is a foreigner," the King said. "This would not exclude him if you were not the heir to the throne. As the heir, there are other requirements you must abide by. For instance, he owns no property in Emertland."

"If I like him, I will deed him some of my property," Denae told her father. "It is a silly restriction but not insurmountable."

The King shook his head and smiled.

"If it were that simple, I could do the same and I would for you," he replied. There was sadness in his voice. "It is my understanding that Jorgarn is already the Squire Protector of Longview. I am unsure of what that is, but I assume he already is sworn to protect Lady Eslada. It is not possible for him to protect you both. If war with the Empire were to come, he would be a liability."

Denae's face betrayed her anger.

"Why would your niece send him here then?" she asked hotly. "Why would she send him so far away if he was her sworn protector? It makes absolutely no sense. He proved today there is little for us to teach him. I saw him disarm the best we have full guards from both ranks."

The King raised his eyes at his daughter.

"You know this how?" he asked.

The Princess' face relaxed and she blushed.

"I watched him," she said. "From the parapet. Rayna and I go up there to watch the trainees. She is hoping Pernice will ask for her hand."

"What were your impressions of the man?" the King asked.

"I thought he was a commoner," Denae said. "I have seen them mix ranks before. There is always posturing and hostility. There was none of that today. He joked with the regular guard and he asked them questions and took their suggestions. He offered them pointers and they seemed grateful. If anything, he got along better with the commoners than he did with the aristocrats."

The King smirked.

"Just like you do," he said with a grin.

"And just like you and Uncle Torbert do," she rejoined.

"Indeed," the King replied with a grimace.

"Do you think your niece will renounce her claim to him?" Denae asked. The more she thought about the young newcomer, the more he intrigued her.

The King looked closely at his daughter. She was growing up and looked a little more like her mother every day.

"It doesn't work that way," he said sadly. He was worried that Denae would either accept the first viable candidate as her Knight or refuse to name anyone at all. "He would have to renounce her. Do you really want someone as your Knight who takes his word so lightly?"

"No," Denae admitted. "I would not want that. Perhaps his title is more ceremonial."

The King nodded.

"That is one thing I plan to ask him tomorrow," he said. "Torbert has written to Eslada to clarify his title. But it could be months before we hear back."

Denae raised her eyes.

"It is a day by ship to Longview," she said. "I believe the castle sits along the opposite coast from us."

The King smiled. His daughter was obviously taking her role as future monarch seriously.

"It is called a manor or estate there," he pointed out. "And you're right about the location. But the Lord has several manors and she might not be at the main one. The staff there might have been instructed to keep her mail until she returns. She might not return for a month or more. The customs over there are much different than here. Although we are only a few leagues apart, in reality it is a different world."

"You've been there?" Denae asked.

"Once when I was about your age," he said. A tear appeared in his eye. "Your mother is from Longview, if you recall. It was before it became part of The Empire, though. It is far enough away from Swar that most of its customs and traditions have remained, from what I've been told."

Denae wiped a tear from her eye, too.

"I think I would like to travel to the land of my mother's birth upon my majority," she stated.

The King looked at his desk.

"I would have to make arrangements with Lord Longview for a state visit," he said upon reflection. "You simply can't jump on a ship and go there. It will take time."

Denae nodded.

"It makes sense then that I should avail upon Master Longview or, what did you call him?" she asked.

"His name is Jorgarn Elmwood of Longview, Squire Protector of the Manor," he said with a flourish. "I told you, their traditions are odd. One of them is how their nobles are named. His family name is Elmwood but the title is included in his formal name. His father is Wenta Elmwood of Longview, Lord Regent of the Empire of Swar."

Denae rolled her eyes and shook her head.

"I thought my name was pretentious," she said with a grin. "Anyway, I believe it would be a good idea for me to ask Master Jorgarn to assist me in learning the customs, traditions and language of my mother's homeland. Do you think he prefers to be called Master Jorgarn or the Master Elmwood or Squire Longview or Pointy-Point?"

"Pointy-Point?" the King asked. He was certain he had missed something.

"It makes as much sense as High and Mighty Squire Lord Protector of the Universe of Swar or whatever," she said with a giggle.

Her father turned serious.

"He is not likely to help you or even to abide by you if you mock him," he said sternly. "Would you like to be referred to as Princess Pain in the Rear?"

Denae smiled but nodded her head.

"Only by you," she said. "Well, and by your wife. I do try to create pain there for her. But I take your point and I will inquire with Sir Torbert as to the proper way to address a visiting noble."

"Well said," the King replied. "And be nicer to your stepmother. For my sake, please."

"The moment she dispenses with trying to make decisions for me, I'll be pleasant as possible," she said archly. "Until then, well, I suppose what you see is what you get."

The King laughed. He missed having a pleasant conversation with his daughter. It seemed that his most recent ones revolved around her stepmother or her ascension or some other serious topic.

"Indeed," he said with a smile. "What I see is what I get then."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 3



Jorgarn awakened stiff and sore the next morning. He had overdone things the day before and his body was telling him about it.

He hoped he wouldn't have to put on another display. Grudgingly he exited his chamber for his morning meal.

"Gentlemen," he said to his cohabitants. "How are you this day?"

Both Fieth and Renoit looked at the other before speaking.

"We are well, Master Jorgarn," Fieth said. "And yourself?"

Jorgarn groaned.

"Intolerably sore," he replied. "I am afraid some of my activities yesterday were more than I'm used to."

"You didn't appear tired at the training session," Renoit said. "In fact, you seemed completely rested at the end."

Jorgarn looked up from his meal.

"Oh, yes," he said. "That wasn't what I was talking about. I'm used to hours and hours of practice. I worked the sails on the ship that brought me here. I had the night watch and I'm afraid pulling those lines and adjusting the jib worked muscles I'm not used to working."

His tablemates goggled at the other.

"You mean you helped to sail the ship here?" Fieth exclaimed. "Then you bested the best noble trainee without problem? Then you went through the rest of us and everyone else? Creator, are you human?"

Jorgarn looked embarrassed.

"Uh, really, it sounds better than it is," he said. "I expected to have a day or so to acclimate myself here. So I took the night watch on the ship. They were short-handed. The rest of it just sort of happened."

Renoit shook his head.

"Today is likely to be a day for resting wounds," he said. "You will not be the only one with sore muscles. At least you have few bruises to worry about. None us managed to touch you."

Jorgarn held out his hands, palms up. They were cut and swollen.

"Lord Creator," Fieth said. "You should have had the medic look at those. Did your practice sword have a nick?"

"Ropes from the ship," Jorgarn said with a shake of his head. "I was not smart enough to wrap my hands and it took me a while to notice that the others did. I believe stupidity should have consequences. These are mine."

Renoit glanced fleeting at Fieth before deciding to speak up.

"Symington will not take your actions easily," he said. "You will need to vigilant. I will offer to watch your back, although I doubt you would accept my help. Even if you did, my skill is somewhat lacking and I would probably only delay him a moment."

Jorgarn considered what the man had said and decided to focus on only a portion of it.

"You need to exercise your wrists and hands," he said. "You have skill in the initial flurry but you tire easily. Here, watch this."

Jorgarn walked to the entryway and reached above the cross section of wood above the door. He proceeded to lift his entire weight off the ground several times using only his fingertips for leverage.

"You need to gain strength in your wrists and forearms, Master Renoit," he said as he effortlessly lifted himself time and again. "It will help you develop stamina. Master Fieth, you should probably work on your quickness if you wish to improve. Each of you could help the other or I would be willing to assist you."

He lowered himself back to the floor to find a young boy of about seven years standing in front of him.

"Master Elmwood?" the boy inquired with a curious expression on his face.

"Indeed, I am," Jorgarn said as he extended his hand to the boy. "And you are?"

"Merg," the boy stammered. "I am a page for the castle. I was told to deliver this to you."

The boy ignored the outstretched hand and instead stuffed an envelope into Jorgarn's paw.

"Thank you, kind Merg," Jorgarn said as he ruffled the boy's hair. "Please, come join us for breakfast while I read this. Are you expected to await an answer?"

The boy gulped and nodded. He had delivered messages for the Royal Household on several occasions and had always been expected to wait outside even during a heavy rain. But he knew better than to refuse a request from one of the trainees. He meekly followed Jorgarn inside.

Jorgarn noticed the boy was rail thin. He was sure Merg was fed regularly but a boy that age could eat almost constantly and never be full. He ladled out the remainder of the oatmeal into his cleaned bowl and added a healthy amount of milk and sugar to it.

Merg's eyes were even wider and he wondered when the man would kick him or mock him. He watched the man's preparations carefully to make sure there was no rat droppings or urine added to the mix.

Jorgarn smiled as he put the bowl in front of the youngster. He noticed Merg eyeing the bowl carefully. He could see the boy wanted to eat it but was concerned. Jorgarn remembered some of the cruel pranks his brother had played on him as a child.

"Let me get a spoon," Jorgarn said. "I'll take a couple of bites so you know it isn't poisoned."

"Oh, no sir," the boy said as he picked up his own spoon. "I would never think that."

"I would," Jorgarn said with a chuckle. "I was the second son and I've met some of the people you must have to deal with. I believe if I were in your place I would be suspicious of almost everyone."

Jorgarn scooped up a big mouthful and ate it. He was no longer hungry but he wanted to put the boy at ease. Once Merg started to scoop the food into his own mouth, Jorgarn opened the missive.

He almost dropped it when he saw it wasn't from Sir Torbert but, rather, from the King himself.

"Oh, cläda," he said, reverting to his native tongue. The Longview curses worked so much better and didn't translate well into Emerti.

Fieth and Renoit had sat quietly while Jorgarn had served the common-born boy. It was unheard of for someone of their station to act in such a manner. Then they noticed the look of adoration in Merg's eyes. Jorgarn had just acquired an ally a nearly invisible, inconspicuous ally in the Royal Household.

It took them a moment to wrap their mind around how seamlessly it had been accomplished. The boy had delivered letters for Symington several times. He had even brought orders from Sir Torbert or the other trainers to Fieth and Renoit. At no time had they considered befriending the boy.

Jorgarn's strange oath brought them out of their thoughts.

"What is it?" Fieth asked.

"What did you say?" Renoit wanted to know.

"Uh, just something from Longview," he answered Renoit first. "Nothing polite. I apologize."

Renoit laughed.

"No need to apologize," he said. "None of us understood it. How about the letter? Does Sir Torbert want you to single-handedly take down a charging elephant?"

Jorgarn laughed mirthlessly.

"I would prefer that, I think," he replied. "It seems my presence is requested for the nightly meal with the King."

"Impressive," Fieth said.

"You must be honored," Renoit added.

Neither of them had ever graced the King's table. Symington was a frequent occupant, which he never failed to point out to them.

"Nothing good can come of this," Jorgarn said as he shook his head. "My stepmother is the King's niece. I gather she was not held in high regard in Emertland. Sir Torbert likes her but I do not think he is the norm for noblemen."

Both Fieth and Renoit laughed at Jorgarn's understatement. Sir Torbert's disdain for nobility was only tolerated because of the position he held within his family.

"Will the Princess be there?" Fieth asked eagerly.

"The Princess?" Jorgarn asked. "Oh, her. My stepmother mentioned the King had a daughter. I don't know. It doesn't say. I am afraid my language skills are not up to decoding the hidden message. It is rather, uh, obtuse I believe is the word."

Fieth held out his hand.

"May I?" he asked politely. He was interested in seeing Jorgarn's reaction. Symington refused to allow anyone to see the messages he received from the Royal Household.

"Oh, certainly," he said as he handed it over. "Maybe you can tell me what it really says. Merg, we're out of oatmeal but there is some milk left. Would you like some?"

The boy nodded eagerly. He was surprised when Jorgarn got out of his seat to get it for him.

"Thank you, sir," the boy said with downcast eyes when Jorgarn handed him the cup.

"I am Jorgarn," he replied. "I am not a sir. I am no more than you are. I was just accidentally born into a different family."

Renoit paused from his reading for a moment to consider what Jorgarn had said. It was obvious that he meant it. He pondered the implications of the statement.

"Hmm," he said to himself thoughtfully. It made a certain amount of sense to him.

Jorgarn looked to see what Renoit had read that was so interesting but he found the man staring at the wall.

"Find something?" Jorgarn asked.

Renoit snapped his attention back to the paper.

"What?" he asked. "Oh, no, sorry. I was just thinking about something."

Fieth elbowed his friend in the ribs.

"Thinking about how you wish you were dining with the Princess," he said with a smirk. He had put special emphasis on the word "dining."

Renoit sat up straight.

"No," he said. "Actually, I was just thinking about the accident of my birth."

He nodded toward Jorgarn.

"It makes sense, you know," he said. "I thank you for giving me something to consider. Now, from what I can glean, it is a formal invitation to dine tonight with the Royal Family. If it had said 'Royal Household' it would be an informal occasion. 'Royal Family' suggests that Princess Denae and Queen Lorida will be attendance and possibly Sir Torbert, as well. He is the King's brother, as you probably know. Ah..."

Renoit's finger traced a line at the end of the letter.

"Traditional dress is requested," he said with a puzzled look on his face.

"Perhaps they think I dine naked," Jorgarn said with a laugh. "I'm certain you two are thankful that is not the case. I know I'm glad you two don't eat that way."

Both Renoit and Fieth sat back quickly. They hadn't realized Jorgarn had a sense of humor at all. He had been serious and rigid during the entire day they had known him.

"It means you are asked to wear what you would wear to a formal dinner in Longview," a voice said from behind them. The trio turned around to see Sir Torbert standing in the doorway. He smiled brightly when he saw Merg drinking a cup of milk.

"There you are, you ragamuffin," Torbert said as he tousled the boy's blond hair. "You shouldn't have fed him. He'll be like a stray cat now, turning up at mealtime."

Torbert smiled at the boy again to show he wasn't serious.

"He looks like he could use it," Jorgarn rejoined with a laugh. "Don't you people at the castle feed him?"

"We had him checked for a hollow leg last month," Torbert said. "We're thinking of invading Velotta just to get enough food for him."

Again, Fieth and Renoit watched the byplay with interest. They would never have considered inviting the boy to dine with them and they certainly would never attempt to trade barbs with Sir Torbert. In fact, they had seen the Captain more in past day than in the preceding two months. But Jorgarn seemed as at home with the common boy as he was the King's brother.

"So, do you have clothes you can wear?" Torbert asked. The formality of the day before was gone. He no longer referred to Jorgarn as "Master Longview" or "Master Elmwood."

Jorgarn seemed unsure of the answer.

"I have never sat at a formal dinner," he answered. "They were infrequent in Longview. I have what would be considered state dress. Lady Eslada insisted that I might need finery. However, given what I saw from Master Symington, I am not certain what is considered finery in Longview is adequate for here."

"Bring it out," Torbert suggested. "I'll give my opinion but the ultimate decision is yours. No one will know the difference."

"If it is unacceptable to you, Jorgarn," Fieth said, "I'm certain between the three of us we can come up with something you deem appropriate."

Jorgarn nodded his thanks. When he pulled his tunic and pants from the bag, he was sorely disappointed.

"Cläda," he muttered. The bottom of the bag had gotten wet and his tunic and trousers were soaked along with his soft-soled boots.

"That is no way to talk," Sir Torbert chided jokingly. "What is the problem?"

"They are wet and I didn't unpack them yesterday," Jorgarn said as he looked helplessly at his clothing. His tunic was deep green and made from spun wool. The trousers were made from the same material but were light brown.

Torbert looked at them with a critical eye. The colors were more muted than the traditional garb of Emertland but he thought it would be a nice contrast and set Jorgarn off from the others who visited the King's table.

"Let's set it out in the sun," Torbert suggested. "I think we should wash the salt out of it first, though. I'll send one of our laundresses over. But we'll see what we can find for you, just in case."

He glanced up at Jorgarn for a moment.

"You probably should consider cutting your hair and shaving the stubble off your chin," Torbert said. "Although I know in Longview it is common for men to wear their hair past their shoulders and a full beard, it is somewhat unusual here especially for a Noble Guard trainee. Once you are a full guard, you will have to keep your hair trimmed and your face clean shaven."

Jorgarn nodded.

"Should I send someone to help you bathe?" Torbert asked.

"Thank you, I believe I can attend to that task myself," Jorgarn said sarcastically. "I've actually been bathing myself for almost a full year now."

Torbert laughed and then explained that many noblemen had attendants who assisted in the process. Jorgarn was glad that Pietro hadn't heard of that not that he bathed frequently anyway. But Jorgarn was certain he would have forced one of the house maidens to assist him while in the tub.

"Well, if I wasn't worried about wearing it tonight, I could attend to my own clothing, as well," Jorgarn replied. "I apologize if I offended you. I believe there are more differences in Emertland and Longview than I anticipated."

Torbert nodded his agreement. He had accompanied his brother on Landor's trip to Longview years before and Torbert often interacted with the sailors who arrived from there.

"Incidentally," he said with a broad grin. "The words you're looking for are 'rat and bat manure.'"

Jorgarn narrowed his eyes.

"Cläda," Torbert said. "It means a mixture of rat and bat excrement. It is an extremely pungent fertilizer. But try not to say it too often."

-------

Sir Torbert met Jorgarn at the dormitory two hours before sunset.

The laundress had used a hard brush to scrape off the hardened salt before washing the clothing in scented water. She then used two flat, heated rocks to dry the clothing.

Jorgarn was impressed. Not only did she salvage his only formal outfit, it came out looking better than it had a right to.

Torbert nodded appreciatively at Jorgarn's new haircut. Although most trainees kept their hair longer, Jorgarn had opted for a cut as short as Torbert's. The laundress had taken one look at Jorgarn's efforts to shave his face and appointed herself to the job. She said she would have hated to go to the effort of making him look presentable only to have him cut his own throat while shaving.

For his part, Jorgarn was thankful for her help although it was a bit odd for him to allow a stranger to hold such a sharp object to his throat. He decided he would definitely need to work toward handling that chore himself.

As Torbert's eyes took in Jorgarn's appearance they fell to the ceremonial sword attached to the young man's hip. It, too, was well crafted but Torbert doubted the steel was firm enough to stand up to battle.

The sword had been passed down to Jorgarn from his mother's father. It was the sole heirloom destined for a second son. Everything else was given to the firstborn boy. Still, Jorgarn carried it proudly. Should Jorgarn have children, the child's mother would acquire the heirloom for his second son.

"You clean up well," Torbert said with a pat on shoulder. "I was a bit worried. I know most in Longview take a dim view toward bathing."

Jorgarn laughed although it was true. Many viewed the process as a nuisance more than a necessity.

"Your niece cured me of that," Jorgarn replied. "Rather quickly, now that I think of it. I was probably six or seven. She told me that I was expected to bathe three times a week and if I couldn't accomplish it on my own, she would do it for me."

Torbert smiled broadly at the story. Eslada was always outspoken. It was a shame that she had to be sent abroad in order to find a husband.

"She didn't make that offer to Pietro even though he was worse about it than I was," Jorgarn joked.

"Your brother?" Torbert asked.

"Oh, yes," Jorgarn said, "he is or was."

"Was?" Torbert wondered.

"I am no longer a part of the family," Jorgarn said. "In Longview, if one leaves the country voluntarily and has no plans to return, he cedes his citizenship. It is the law."

Torbert stopped.

"You are no longer a citizen of Longview?" he asked warily. "Do I understand that correctly?"

Jorgarn nodded. His face showed no attempt at deception, not that Torbert thought he would lie about something.

"Interesting," he replied. "So, you are a citizen of nowhere then."

"Well, I am a citizen of Emertland now," Jorgarn said before pausing. "Or maybe I'm not. In Longview, to become a citizen you simply have to arrive, learn the language and live there. Is it different here?"

"Much different, I'm afraid," Torbert said. "But no matter. I'm certain that once Landor hears of this, he will make an offer of citizenship to you."

At the mention of the King's name, the realization of where he was going hit Jorgarn. His stomach felt queasy and he started to breath heavier.

This was the King of Emertland. Although Lord Longview was the head of a principality, he was not a major figure in The Empire. In fact, Jorgarn doubted the Emperor would even know his father's name, let along recognize the man in a crowd.

Jorgarn had derived during brief conversations with Fieth and Renoit that Lord Longview would be considered a powerful noble in Emertland. There were some, Cruit Symington's family for instance, who governed a larger area than many sovereign nations. And King Landor governed the governors.

"Relax," Torbert said from Jorgarn's side. "Yes, Landor is the king but he does not dwell on it. I spoke to him last night of your activities with Master Symington and Denae gave him a recap of your exploits during training. He simply wants to get to know the young man who has created such a stir and who has Eslada singing his praises."

"Denae?" Jorgarn asked suddenly. "The Princess was at the sparring yesterday?"

"She watched from up there," Torbert said as he pointed to the castle's battlements. "I understand one of her many friends is interested in one of the trainees. They go up there periodically to keep an eye on him. She was impressed."

Jorgarn gulped audibly and Torbert chuckled.

"How should I address them?" Jorgarn asked as they entered the castle. "I mean, what is the proper etiquette? Can I speak to them or should I wait to be spoken to?"

Torbert grasped the young man's arm. Jorgarn's speech was coming rapidly and he was starting to mix Longview words with Emerti.

"Calm, young Jorgarn," Torbert advised. "Take a few deep breaths. This is no different than having dinner with your family in Longview."

Jorgarn couldn't help but roll his eyes.

"So that means there will be an odious little twit regaling us with lies about his deeds, an overbearing person frowning at those seated and criticizing those serving and two people who wished it were possible to be anywhere else?" he asked.

Torbert broke out in laughter that rang through the halls.

"Not quite," he said. "Although you do paint a picture with your words. Eslada has rubbed off on you whether you notice it or not. If you had been here last evening, I can say it would be remarkably similar. But tonight, I think it will be much different. The King and the Princess will treat you like Eslada does. The Queen?"

Torbert shrugged.

"Well, one never knows about how she will treat anyone," he said in a whisper. "Even the King. She is somewhat temperamental, although I confess I do not know her well. She is the only one it is necessary to be on guard about. I will be there, too, which will draw some of her ire away from you. She is a bit perturbed that her favorite young man received 10 lashes this morning."

"Now, to your questions," he continued. "You should address the King and Queen as Your Royal Highness or Your Majesty until they give you permission to call them something else. The King is unlikely to grant you permission to call him anything other than King Landor. The Queen might insist that you continue to call her Your Royal Highness Queen Lorida until the day you die. The Princess should not be called Your Majesty because she does not rule yet. Your Royal Highness is enough. Denae..."

He shrugged again.

"She will probably start out stiff," Torbert said. "She will almost certainly try to gain a feel for your personality. Beware: She has a sharp wit and a sharper tongue. Although living with Eslada for as long as you have, you probably are used to it. I warn you only because I've seen your wit and I've seen your temper. Do not allow the Princess or the Queen to goad you. If I see it happening and I can stop it, I most certainly will. The same goes for Landor. But, let me be blunt, there are times when the Queen is beyond his control. And Denae, well, there are only rare times when she is controllable by anyone. So just keep your wits about you. By the way, you should always refer to me as Sir Torbert or simply Sir. I know we have gained a familiarity in the last day but we can't allow that to happen here. You handled it perfectly yesterday on the field. Just act the same toward me tonight.

"Now, how would you like to be addressed?"

Jorgarn didn't know how to respond. He wasn't certain he understood the question.

"Jorgarn?" he asked more than replied.

Torbert couldn't help but smile at the young man.

"We will need more than that," he responded. "For instance, when Lord Longview would introduce you, what title would he use?"

Again Jorgarn was at a loss.

"Jorgarn?" he said again questioningly.

Torbert shook his head and patted the young man's shoulder. His lack of affectation would be a hit with King and most likely with the Princess but the Queen would eat him alive.

"Are you called anything else?" Torbert tried.

"Well, Pietro sometimes referred to me as ott bornta and karida dä," he said conspiratorially. He got the impression that Torbert knew a few oaths from Longview. "That stopped when he figured I could and would hurt him."

The look of mirth on the Captain of the Guards' face proved Torbert did understand a bit of the Longview language. Unfortunately, Torbert's reply was interrupted by the arrival of Princess Denae who had walked up behind them for the sole purpose of overhearing their conversation. She enjoyed the upper hand eavesdropping sometimes gave her.

Torbert spotted her and cut off his retort abruptly. He opted to wing it.

"May I present, Her Royal Highness, Princess Denae, Future Heiress to the Monarchy of Emertland," Torbert said in a voice for more regal than Jorgarn had heard him use before.

Jorgarn did his best to sweep the floor with his deep bow and almost wound up skewering himself on his ceremonial sword. He caught himself just before causing permanent harm to a sensitive region.

"It is my humble honor, Your Royal Highness," Jorgarn said in a voice he hoped resembled the tremulous tones Sir Torbert had used.

The Princess' cheeks glowed brightly. He hoped he had impressed her and she wasn't simply embarrassed for his antics.

"Princess Denae, I give you Jorgarn Elmwood, formerly of Longview and Squire Protector to Lady Eslada, now in training to join our Noble Guard," Torbert intoned. Jorgarn could gain no measure of whether he had pleased Torbert with his display or mortified him.

"My pleasure, Master Elmwood," the Princess said as she offered him her dainty hand. He wasn't sure if he should shake it, kiss it or wash it. He snuck a glance at Torbert who made a kissing motion, so Jorgarn bent forward and kissed the back of the Princess' hand gently. He caught a brief whiff of her perfume. It was similar to what Lady Eslada wore.

"I must go and be seated, Uncle," Denae said as she kissed Torbert on the cheek. "I'm certain Queen Lorida will expect an introduction, so will you please perform the honor?"

"Of course, My Princess," Torbert said. "It will be my pleasure."

Jorgarn was almost certain he heard the Princess make a rude comment but he bit his lip to keep from smiling. A fleeting hint of amusement passed Torbert's features but was quickly gone. When the Princess had entered the dining area, Torbert turned to Jorgarn.

"Well done, young Jorgarn," he said as he patted him on the back. "Now, turn up the obsequiousness another notch or two for the Queen and you'll be fine. You made Denae blush and I can assure you that is a rarity. The King will adore you just for that fact alone. Now, here we go."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 4



The conversation was kept to a minimum during dinner. Jorgarn had expected a long table where one would have to shout to be heard. He was surprised that the sitting area was rather cozy. He was further surprised to learn he was to be seated directly beside Princess Denae. He hoped he wouldn't make a fool out of himself.

Lady Eslada and life in Longview were the main topics of conversation during the main course. Jorgarn was exceedingly uncomfortable when the discussion turned to him when after-dinner wine was served.

"I understand your official title is somewhat long-winded, Master Elmwood," the Princess said. Jorgarn wasn't certain he liked the twinkle in her eye.

"I am afraid, Your Highness, and I mean no disrespect to the Royal Family," Jorgarn said after a slight hesitation, "that my title is somewhat a work of fiction. Or at least the title Sir Torbert has told me I have."

The Princess' gaze narrowed.

"From what I understand, you are known as Jorgarn Elmwood of Longview, Squire Protector of the Manor," Denae said. "Is that not the case?"

Jorgarn tried not to show his fear. He had arrived under false pretenses. Pretenses he was unaware of but false just the same.

"Again, Your Royal Highness, I do not mean to disparage your cousin, Lady Eslada, but I fear her letters might have been a bit exaggerated as far as my duties and my title," he said. "She believed a life in the Noble Guard to be better for me than one in the priesthood."

"Priesthood?" Denae sputtered. "I will return to that in a moment. So, what is your title?"

He considered his response.

"Jorgarn Elmwood, trainee for the Noble Guard," he settled upon.

"I learned an interesting fact today," Sir Torbert cut in. "Master Jorgarn is no longer a citizen of Longview."

The Princess sat back suddenly.

"Exiled?" the Queen asked with disgust. They were the first words she uttered to Jorgarn during the extended time they had shared company. "They send us their refuse. I should have known after what I heard of your display yesterday with Master Symington."

The King simply sat silently.

"I beg your pardon, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said in harsh voice. The Queen's imperiousness had rankled him immediately and her statement had pushed him to the edge. He knew his face was reddening. A soft pat on his arm from Denae caught his attention. He glanced to her and she appeared to be appealing to him to tread lightly.

"I beg your pardon, Your Majesty," he repeated in a softer tone. "I was not exiled and I am offended that you would assume so without cause. A person who willingly leaves Longview and does not plan to return is no longer a citizen. It doesn't matter that I was from the ruling house. It is the law."

Jorgarn's restraint was rewarded with a dual pat on his arm from the Princess.

"Well, that explains that," Denae said in much brighter voice than she used during her inquisition. "I would like to know the duties of a Squire Protector though."

So would I, Jorgarn thought to himself. The slight smile that crossed Denae's lips made him wonder if she could read his mind.

"I will explain to the best of my ability, Your Highness," Jorgarn said.

"Please, call me Princess Denae or Princess," she told him. "May I call you Master Jorgarn?"

"Uh, Jorgarn is fine, Your Highness," he replied. "I am no one's master."

"Tut, tut," Denae said with a smile. "It's Princess Denae, remember?"

"Yes, Princess Denae," he responded. It didn't feel right to him to call her by her name.

"I understand you mastered quite a few during training yesterday," she said. Denae shot a pointed glance toward her stepmother. "And one prior to training."

"That was a misunderstanding," the Queen said quickly and loudly. "Cruit Master Symington explained that last night."

"And his version does not match the reports I've been given," the King said sharply. "Now, I would like to hear Master Longview – Jorgarn's version. Please, continue, Jorgarn."

Jorgarn shot a quick glance to Torbert but the man's face was emotionless.

"Your Majesty, I am the first to admit that I am unaware of some Emerti customs," Jorgarn said. "Perhaps it started as a misunderstanding. However, Your Majesties, I did not misunderstand Master Symington's intentions when he came at me with a drawn sword. Those intentions I understood perfectly."

Torbert gave a brief nod that Jorgarn caught out of the corner of his eye.

"And, pray tell, what led up to Master Symington drawing his sword?" Denae asked a little too eagerly for Jorgarn's taste. He was immediately on his guard.

He did his best to relate what happened the previous day in minimal detail. He didn't want to get into a pissing contest with someone who obviously enjoyed the favor of the Royal Household.

"Uncle Torbert," Denae said sweetly when Jorgarn had concluded his narrative, "is it tradition for a new recruit to be treated such?"

"It is not, Princess Denae," Torbert said firmly. "What happened has been dealt with severely. Master Symington has been put on notice. One further infraction and he will be dismissed from the guards."

The Queen took a sharp intake of breath.

"So his promotion was not on merit," Denae continued. "But more to ensure his safety."

"Actually, Your Highness," Jorgarn answered. "It was more to ensure my safety."

"Oh, please," she said as she sat back in her chair. "I saw you yesterday. You are the best swordsman this country has seen since my uncle."

Both the Princess and Jorgarn blushed.

"Ah, Princess Niece," Torbert said lightly. "I didn't know that at the time. I was led to believe our young friend here had no formal training. Suffice it say, his informal training was done by two of the best. Do you care to guess, brother, who trained young Jorgarn?"

The shift to familial tense caught Jorgarn off guard. No one but the Queen seemed perturbed by Torbert's excitement.

"Do tell, brother," the King replied.

"I would rather you guess," Torbert replied with a smirk. "I will work a week in the kitchen if you can name them in three tries."

The King rubbed his chin.

"And if I don't?" he asked with a twinkle in his eye.

"Double portions of ale for the Emertland Guard for a week," Torbert answered.

Jorgarn and Denae were each shifting his or her gaze from one man to the other. The Queen was looking angry and slightly bored.

"As much as I would like to see you in the kitchen, it would be unfair for me to guess," the King replied. "I overheard one of my attendants talking about it today. It's nice to know where Melodart and Gorin landed though. I'm not surprised that Eslada asked them to come to Longview. How long did you train with them, Jorgarn?"

"Almost five years, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "I started right after I killed a boar during a street festival."

"After?" King Landor said. "I remember Eslada writing that you killed a charging boar with one shot. You must have been quite young then. Please, when we are in private, you may call me King Landor."

Jorgarn's eyes widened.

"Oh, Your Majesty," he said haltingly. "I don't think that is appropriate. But I thank you for your kindness."

"I don't think it is appropriate either," the Queen intoned.

The King's gaze landed upon his wife.

"Luckily, I am the one who gets to gauge appropriateness of salutations, Lorida," he said in a cold voice. "Young Jorgarn, if you don't feel comfortable using my name at this point, it is quite alright. But don't let the opinions of others stop you. I think very highly of Eslada. I value her opinion. She obviously thinks very highly of you. By proxy, I think highly of you."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said softly. "Although I did not realize she was speaking of the King of Emertland, his daughter and his brother, I can assure you that Lady Eslada speaks nothing but kind words about your family."

"Does she also think of you as ott bornta and karida dä?" Denae asked innocently. "Did I pronounce those words correctly?"

The three men shot wine out of their noses.

"What?" Denae asked. "Did I say something incorrectly? I am interested in learning to speak Longview. I plan to travel to my mother's birthplace soon."

Jorgarn recovered to find both the King and Sir Torbert looking at him each with an expression of amusement marking his face. The King tilted his head toward Jorgarn to let him know that it was up to him to explain.

"Princess Denae, Your Highness," he faltered as he sought the words to explain it to her. "Those words are not something one says lightly. There is a special meaning to them in the context you overheard them. I apologize for our reactions. But there must be a very special feeling between two people for those words to be uttered."

"What do they mean?" Denae asked.

Jorgarn closed his eyes and prayed the conversation would move forward. It didn't.

"Your Highness, there are words that do not translate well from one language to another," Jorgarn said in what he hoped wasn't a condescending manner. "I am unsure of the exact meaning in this language. I am not sure there is a literal translation. They are more marginalized terms. Perhaps one day it will be possible for me to know all the words I need to know. Today, I do not so I revert to Longview for terms I do not know. But those are not words to be tossed about cavalierly and I apologize to you for doing so earlier with Sir Torbert. What I said was in a joking manner. I pray that you understand and forgive me."

Denae's eyes twinkled and she started to speak. Jorgarn dreaded what she might ask next. He briefly considered drawing the King and Sir Torbert into the fray because they obviously knew what the translation was. Jorgarn was saved by the King.

"Well said, Jorgarn," the King said with a concealed chuckle. "My daughter, it is a problem you will find with anyone who is not extremely fluent in our language. We have many words that sound the same but mean something different. I'm sure you are aware of that. However, in Longview, that is not the case. Those words translate to many different meanings here. But in Longview they mean words only a person close to another would speak."

Denae nodded her understanding.

"Words such as 'I love you, ' or a special pet name," she said thoughtfully. "I do understand and I apologize to Jorgarn for putting him in an awkward spot. I have been warned many times about overheard conversations and about using words I don't know the meaning of. Today it caught up with me. Please, accept my apology, Master Elmwood. I mean no harm to you."

The Princess looked as if she was about to cry. Jorgarn felt like a jackass.

"Your Highness," he said in as sweet a voice as he could muster, "although there is no reason for you to apologize, I will accept it if you prefer. I know better than to think anything in a manor house with as many people as this one holds will be private. I spoke foolishly and flippantly to Sir Torbert. That my words were overheard and repeated is my fault alone."

Even the Queen was impressed by how Jorgarn handled the situation. Queen Lorida had no idea what Denae had uttered but she understood enough to know it was something better left unsaid. It was foolish of the girl to repeat what she had overheard and gallant of Jorgarn to do everything in his power to lessen her embarrassment.

Although she was impressed, Jorgarn's actions did not endear him to the Queen.

-------

The conversation paused for a few moments while Denae composed herself. Jorgarn had done his best to make her feel less foolish but she knew she had not acted wisely.

"There is something you said earlier than I found quite interesting," Denae said. "Well, actually I've found almost everything you've said to be of interest. But a few things I would ask you to explain more fully if you might. I am trying to wrap my mind around Longview and its way of life."

"Of course, Your Highness," Jorgarn answered readily. Denae had given up on getting him to call her anything else but Your Highness. Princess and Princess Denae had been used sparingly. She wished Jorgarn would relax and display some of the levity that brought her uncle to laughter in the entryway.

"You said you are no longer a citizen of Longview," Denae said. "Are you still Squire Protector of the Manor?"

Back to that again, Jorgarn thought. Well, no use getting caught in a lie.

"I am fairly certain that I was never Squire Protector of the Manor," he admitted. "Unless the words mean something I don't know, then maybe I was. Lady Eslada, without my knowledge, began training me to come here five years ago, when I was 10 years old."

"You're only 15?" the Queen inquired. "Surely you are older than that."

"No, Your Majesty," Jorgarn replied. "Actually, I turned 15 two days ago."

"I turn 15 in eight weeks," Denae put in.

"Congratulations, Your Highness," Jorgarn said sincerely. "In Longview, 15 marks the entrance to adulthood. But maybe I can return to that in a moment. I would like to clear up this confusion of the Squire thing."

Denae and the King nodded but the Queen stared daggers at Jorgarn.

"Lady Eslada it seems contacted a pair of Noble Guards that she knew in her youth," he continued. "When they arrived, she would send me to them a few times each week. We worked on many things. Some were related to weaponry; some were related to woodcraft; some were simply manual labor they needed done. At the same time, she sought Lord Longview's permission to have me accompany her during her trips. She didn't travel often but it was an excuse for me to get away from the manor so I gladly accepted the role. Although I cannot say this with entire certainty, I do not believe that there is a formal title of Squire Protector of the Manor. If there is, it is one that is rarely awarded and never publicized."

"So you hold no allegiance to Lady Eslada?" the King asked. He suspected where his daughter planned to take this conversation and it was too soon for that step.

"I hold every allegiance to Lady Eslada, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "At 15, as second son of a noble, I was expected to join the priesthood. It was not a fate I relished. I planned to flee. In fact, I was mere hours away from my escape when Lord and Lady Longview announced that I was to be sent here. I believe this will be a much better calling than anything I could have found on my own."

The King nodded but he was too slow to change the subject.

"But you are not sworn to her?" Denae asked.

"As I've told Sir Torbert, I gave my vow to Lady Eslada to protect her if necessary," Jorgarn answered. The Princess' face dropped and the Queen almost smiled. Jorgarn wondered if he had gotten the question wrong. If he did, he wondered how.

"I believe you mentioned that your vow to Eslada encompasses only one scenario," Sir Torbert cut in. "Perhaps you should elucidate."

Jorgarn couldn't see the harm.

"If Lord Longview should die before his heir, I promised that I would remove Lady Eslada from the country prior to the new lord's ascension," Jorgarn explained.

"And that is the totality of your pledge to her?" the King asked.

"That is the only circumstance that I agreed to," Jorgarn clarified. "Lady Eslada has two Noble Guards living nearby. She likely does not need my protection in any circumstance but she asked me to ensure her safety if Pietro is to be sworn as Lord."

"Why?" the Queen asked coldly. Her happiness had dissipated quickly.

Jorgarn took at glance at Torbert who simply nodded.

"If I may be crass, Your Majesty," Jorgarn began, "Pietro Elmwood of Longview is a jackal. Although there are some adjectives in this language that give me trouble, I have no problem with the ones that describe him: brutal, horrid, stupid, callous. I could go on."

"You speak this way of your brother?" the Queen demanded.

"The day I left Longview, I no longer had a brother, Your Highness," Jorgarn stated again. "Nor a father, nor a stepmother."

"But if this Pietro precedes your father in death sorry, the Lord Longview are you the next in line?" Denae asked.

"I hold no claim to the lordship, Princess," Jorgarn answered. "I agreed to forfeit my claim in order to come here. If I had joined the priesthood, I would have remained second in line. Part of Lady Eslada's bargain for my freedom is that she is expected to provide Lord Longview with a Supernumerary son. That is the formal wording. The firstborn son is the Primary. The second in line is Supernumerary. I hope she does better than my mother."

"How did your mother die, Jorgarn?" Denae wondered.

Jorgarn bit his lip for a moment.

"Giving birth to me," he said with a touch of sadness in his voice. "Lord Longview knew his firstborn was a lout. From the time he was old enough to walk, Pietro has been troublesome. He started fires. He killed domesticated animals. He picked on smaller children. My mother had difficulty giving birth the first time. She almost died then. Lord Longview planned to pass over Pietro and appoint his second son me as successor. But when my mother died, that fell by the wayside. Rather than accept responsibility for forcing my mother to have another child when he knew it might harm her, he blamed me for her death. Rather than blame Pietro for being an evil little cretin, he blamed me. It was easier that way.

"Lord Longview didn't have to accept responsibility for endangering my mother nor did he have to accept responsibility for allowing Pietro to turn out as he has. It was perfect for him."

"You dislike your father?" the King asked gently.

"He is flawed, Your Highness," Jorgarn said tentatively. "I know that we all are but he is more flawed than most. His pride and his power are the most important things to him. Like Pietro, Lord Longview was coddled his entire life. His uncle appointed him as his Heir when Lord Longview was barely six years old. His father was dead by the time I arrived but several of the household staff worked there when he was a boy. Not surprisingly, he was much like his oldest son. I spent less time with him as I grew older. The less time I spent around him the less I disliked him."

Torbert couldn't contain the laugh that came from lips. Either Jorgarn had tortured the language with his last sentence or he had made one of the most obvious statements in history. It took a second for Denae to catch on. Then she laughed too.

"There is nothing funny about a man who denigrates nobility," the Queen railed.

"Enough, Lorida," the King said tiredly. "Jorgarn is our guest. You are behaving abominably."

"I think I shall excuse myself and retire," the Queen said haughtily. "But please remember that Master Symington was our guest last evening and it didn't stop you two from behaving abominably."

The King got to his feet quickly and slapped the table.

"Because that little bastard sat at my table and lied to me," he roared. Jorgarn sat back in surprise but Denae leaned forward to get a better view. "And he was your guest. He was not mine and I believe Denae will tell you he was not hers. I have sat here week after week and listened to Cruit Symington espouse his wondrous talents and limitless virtues without comment. He can produce no witnesses to his daring deeds. There is no one but him and you saying what a nice and humble young man he is. But I put up with it until he sat down the table from me, ate my food, drank my wine, looked me square in the eye and lied to me. Now this line of conversation has ended for now and forever."

The Queen glared at everyone but she seemed especially intent upon staring down Jorgarn, who seemed to understand very little about what was going on around him. She knew she was treading upon dangerous ground but it was too important to let things go.

In a reasonable voice, she spoke.

"So I am expected to sit quietly and watch as an unknown person forces his way into our midst and into a position of authority?" the Queen asked. "An unknown person with unknown capabilities and an unknown agenda sent to us by an unknown source. A person who may or may not be aligned with someone who may or may not wish a future claim to the Crown. You speak of independent corroboration. Where is his?"

Jorgarn couldn't help but notice the ice in the Queen's voice with her final question. It was only her stare that led him to understand she was speaking of him.

The King's face was mottled with rage. The Princess appeared to be shaking with anger. Sir Torbert's mouth had dropped and he was looking at the Queen as if she were a bug under glass.

"Excuse me, Your Majesty," Jorgarn replied. "I couldn't help but notice you were looking at me when you finished your diatribe. I am uncertain what I might have done to offend you but I can assure you that it was unintentional. I have no intention of forcing anything upon anyone. I was invited actually, I was summoned to join you this evening. It is not my idea nor my intention to be anything more than what I was yesterday ... a man grateful for the opportunity that lies on your shores and grateful not to be donning an apprentice cleric's vestment this morning. Anything else you believe me to be is a figment of your imagination."

"Or a product of a guilty conscience," Denae added from his side.

"Father, would it be convenient for me to continue my conversation with Master Elmwood in your study?" she asked. "I tire of the Queen's treatment of my guest."

"Our guest," the King responded. He turned to Jorgarn and smiled. Jorgarn's gentle rebuke seemed to quell the King's anger. Even stoic Sir Torbert sported a smug expression. "I believe, Lorida, that you have excused yourself from our presence. That would be appreciated since you seem determined to intrude on something that is of no concern of yours."

The Queen shot an angry glance at Jorgarn again before exiting the dining area. The King sat back heavily in his chair.

"My apologies, Jorgarn," he said with a sigh. "You have been forced to witness part of an internal power struggle here at the palace. Lorida seems to be convinced that she is better equipped to make certain decisions and we have been unable to prove to her otherwise. I'm afraid it has been this way for a while and it will be this way for the coming weeks. Please, I do hope that you and Torbert will join the Princess and me in my study."

Jorgarn would rather have made a clean break of things. His arrival had evidently put the Queen in a tizzy and he wanted no part of a family quarrel nor did he want to anger a member of the Royal Household. But he was painted into a corner. It was obvious that the King's request was a command.

"Of course, Your Majesty," Jorgarn answered as he stood. Since he was nearest to the Princess, he held her chair for her while she arose. She smiled at him sweetly.

"Thank you," she replied. She shot a pointed glance at her father. "You are most polite."

Jorgarn blushed but smiled back. He had acted only as Eslada had directed him for most of his young life. A gentleman always assisted an unescorted lady if he was nearest, be it with her chair, her cloak or any other endeavor.

Jorgarn would have done the same for a common woman as he did for the Princess.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 5



The conversation in the King's study began with much less formality. The Princess sat down in a high-backed chair and gestured for Jorgarn to take the one opposite to her.

"My mother is a Longview woman," she began without preamble and before her father and her uncle had the chance to sit.

"She is probably a distant relative of yours," the King intoned. But Sir Torbert shook his head in disagreement.

"Longview's Lords are not always hereditary, King Landor," he said. "I believe Master Jorgarn's father came to power because there were no male heirs from Sarita's line. Jorgarn, do you know?"

Jorgarn glanced at the Princess for only a moment.

"I would wager that there is a common ancestor among us somewhere, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn answered. "Lord Longview was born into the Elmwood clan and has ruled for only 22 years. I know he was appointed heir by his great-uncle, who had no living male child nor any living male grandchild. The former Lord's family name was Greenmeadow and he held the Lordship for almost 40 years before his passing."

"My mother was a Greenmeadow!" the Princess exclaimed excitedly. She sat back thoughtfully. "That means your father's father was a brother to my mother."

Jorgarn thought for second.

"Actually, Your Highness," he corrected. "It would have been my father's mother. My grandmother, Elevita, was likely a sister to your mother, Queen Sarita."

"She was," the King said. "Elevita was Sarita's older sister. Both were considerably younger than then-Lord Longview 20 or more years I would wager."

A soft smile graced the King's lips.

"My father, King Luthen, arranged my marriage with Lord Longview's sister," he said wistfully. "In truth, I was supposed to marry your grandmother, Jorgarn. But she was considerably older than me. It wouldn't have mattered. Once I saw Sarita, I was determined. She was the most amazing woman."

His sigh told Jorgarn all he needed to know about how the King felt about his late wife.

"There are rules about Royal marriages in Emertland," the Princess explained. "Particularly for someone who is Heir to the Crown. It gets a bit messy at times. I honestly don't understand many of them myself. Thankfully I have time before I'll need to know them. Are there rules in Longview?"

"Your Highness," Jorgarn started.

"Would you please call me Denae when we are in private?" she said with exasperation. "Or at least Princess. We are at least distant cousins. So we are family."

Jorgarn's face reddened. He didn't believe it was appropriate to have such familiarity with a Royal. In that, he was in agreement with the Queen.

"Perhaps once Jorgarn is more familiar with us," the King offered. "Although you and I don't stand on Royal Principle often, there are others who do. We have made the offer to him and that offer will remain. Do not force it upon him."

The Princess understood there was more to her father's last statement than he spoke.

"Of course, I'm sorry," the Princess said with a smile. "Is it still acceptable for me to call you Jorgarn?"

"Or course, Your Highness," Jorgarn said at once. The Princess enjoyed seeing him flustered. He seemed so unflappable the day before, with a sword in his hand. He was in his element then. Now, despite his lineage, Jorgarn was clearly outside his comfort zone. Denae relished having the upper hand on man of such power.

"You come from the Royal Household of Longview," she said. "Why are you so ill at ease here?"

"I was equally ill at ease there, Your Highness," Jorgarn answered meekly. "I was not exactly a welcomed addition to our household. Lord Longview was disappointed with the heir he sired. I have spoken of Pietro's proclivity for menace. It was a product of his upbringing and his makeup, I'm sure. He was coddled and pampered by his father and probably by our mother, too. But he also has a mean spirit that I think was born into him. His birth was difficult and it is the assumption of many that he was damaged in childbirth. Once Lord Longview saw he would leave a horrible legacy, he sought another heir."

"What would have happened to your brother?" the Princess interrupted. She had trouble accepting that Jorgarn left his familial ties behind when he left The Empire.

"He would have been sent abroad or perhaps slain," Jorgarn said without emotion. "The latter probably would have been more appropriate, I'm sorry to say, Princess Denae."

The Princess gasped at the answer but Jorgarn's explanation settled her.

"He is truly that bad?" she wondered.

"Probably worse," Jorgarn said. "For every foul deed I know about there are probably three more that have been hidden from me. As a child he kept his torment mostly to animals and the household staff. As he grew older, his interests expanded. Lord Longview ignored me after my mother's death. He hated me for causing it, although I am unsure of how it could be my fault. He also ignored Pietro's activities. He has never permitted Pietro to travel outside of Longview, so there has never been anyone with the ability to police Pietro's actions. Those inside Longview know it is fruitless to bring such matters to the Lord's attention. I shudder to think what will happen to that land when Pietro swears fealty. I am somewhat surprised that Lord Longview still lives."

The King nodded in appreciation of Jorgarn's statement. His throne had passed to the heir via bloodshed a few times in the past.

"So, what are your plans once Lord Longview is dead?" the King asked. He wanted to get to the heart of Jorgarn's affiliation with Eslada.

"To remain part of the Noble Guard, Your Majesty," Jorgarn answered.

"I mean in regard to Lady Eslada," the King rejoined.

"I will travel to Longview and bring her back to her homeland, Sire," Jorgarn replied casually.

"Will it be that simple?" the Princess wondered.

The look that passed over Jorgarn's face was unreadable to any but Sir Torbert. He understood it well.

"I do not wish to boast, Your Highness," Jorgarn said as he looked at his hands. "I am considered the most dangerous man in Longview. If I had wished it, anytime in the last three years and perhaps longer, I could have been Lord by now. Although, now that I come to realize with whom I have trained, I would wager that I was, at best, the third most dangerous man in Longview."

The King let forth a laugh and was joined by Torbert.

"Eslada's letters to me said very much the same thing," Torbert admitted to the Princess. "Although when I met the boy, her words were somewhat suspect. I wondered initially why Longview had so few dangers that Young Jorgarn was the most dangerous."

"But then you saw him in action," the Princess said with a raised eyebrow. "It was quite impressive. I would wager that Jorgarn is perhaps the second most dangerous man in Emertland at this point."

A lump formed in Jorgarn's throat. His feats with war craft had led most to give him wide berth especially the Lord and his heir.

"I wouldn't take that wager," the King replied. "You said yesterday, Denae, that there is little for us to teach him here."

Torbert nodded his agreement and Jorgarn looked downward. He was to be sent away yet again.

"I understand, Your Majesties," Jorgarn said as he rose. "I ask only that I be allowed to contact Lady Eslada and to attempt to make suitable arrangements for travel elsewhere. I was offered a sailor's spot on the ship on which I arrived. Perhaps it still is in port."

The King stood quickly.

"Oh no, my boy," he said as he reached for Jorgarn's arm. "That is not what I meant at all. I meant only that I foresee a swift rise through the ranks of the Noble Guard. You are well met here and a breath of fresh air. I overheard young Merg's tale of your kindness this morning. The palace has been abuzz for two days now. Denae now has options she didn't before your arrival."

"Father," Denae said firmly.

The King smiled indulgently at this daughter.

"Do you mean to say that this is not where this conversation is leading?" the King asked.

"It is not," the Princess said, again in a firm tone. "I would like to visit Longview in the coming months, as a tribute to my mother and her heritage. I would hope that Master Elmwood would assist me in learning the language and the customs. In return, I will assist him in becoming acclimated to Emertland and his duties in the Noble Guard. That is all I wish to discuss at this time. Any other discussion must come later."

The King smiled at his daughter again. Just the night before, he was certain she would ask that Jorgarn, sight unseen, be promoted as soon as possible to full status so she could anoint him her Protector. He had tried to slow her down until he had a better read on the young man.

Jorgarn had turned out to be everything Eslada had promised and perhaps a bit more. It was obvious he was qualified to be the Knight Protector of the Heiress. He had been polite but forceful with the Queen. His joke to Torbert about his nicknames proved that the Knight Protector of the Crown was fond of him. Otherwise Jorgarn would be receiving lashes instead of sitting politely waiting for the Princess to continue.

"As you wish, Daughter," the King said. "Torbert and I will be next door to discuss other items of interest to the Crown. You may conduct your discussion in private."

The Princess blushed but nodded. She had never – not ever been left alone in the company of an unmarried male. If anyone should learn of her non-chaperoned visit, it would be scandalous. Her uncle must hold a biding trust in Jorgarn for him to permit it.

Jorgarn was in the same situation. It was unheard of in the land where he was born for a man to sit with a young woman alone if he was not betrothed to her. He was thankful that the door to the next room remained open so as not to create the perception of impropriety.

The Princess' eyes would drift periodically to the opened doorway as if to ensure she wasn't really alone with Jorgarn but she spoke to him casually.

"Well, as I've said," she began, "I was excited when I learned of your arrival. Although Lady Eslada has apparently been in contact with my father and uncle regarding you, it was a surprise to me. However, it has turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I truly enjoyed dining with you this evening. You have many interesting stories and you have done well in learning our language. Many who seek to join the Noble Guards from abroad have difficulty with that aspect. I am hoping that you can assist me in learning the language of my mother's homeland and introduce me to some of the more unusual customs that I might find when I arrive there. Would that be acceptable to you??

Jorgarn nodded silently.

"I should alert you, Your Highness," he said, "that my knowledge of your language is somewhat incomplete. There is any number of nuances of which I am unaware. Perhaps you should avail upon your father or your uncle to teach you. They appear to have more than a passing knowledge of Longview and they are most certainly more familiar with your language than I am. I can help you with the customs but, as Heiress to Emertland's throne, it is unlikely that you will need to know them."

The Princess' gaze flickered slightly. She had expected his quick agreement but his assertion that others would be of more help to her had thrown her. She had a dual purpose for her request: she wanted to learn to speak Longview but she also wanted an excuse to get to know Jorgarn better. He was the most viable candidate for Knight Protector to come along since Symington, whose actions in the preceding day had put him at a disadvantage.

She decided upon a course of action.

"Yes," the Princess agreed. "My father and uncle are better equipped to aid me. However, their time is somewhat limited. They have vast responsibilities, none of which include tutoring me in tongues. Also, if you are to serve as a Noble Guard, you must not falter in our language. There might come a time when a misunderstood inflection could mean the difference in life and death for the person you serve. You would learn eventually, I have no doubt. But I doubt there are many among the trainees who would correct you if you speak incorrectly. I will have no problem doing that. Just as I hope you will have no trouble correcting me if I err."

Jorgarn doubted he would be able to be forceful with the future Queen of Emertland but he figured he could offer gentle corrections if the need be.

"Do you know any of the language so far, Your Highness?" Jorgarn asked.

"Only the words we have in common and the ones I learned tonight," the Princess replied. Jorgarn blushed when he heard that.

"Well, the ones you learned tonight are best left forgotten," he said.

"I gathered that much," Denae replied with a laugh as she slapped his arm. "I gather, from the relationship you have with your family, that those are not truly terms of endearment."

Jorgarn sighed.

"They are not, Your Highness," he said.

Torbert stuck his head around the corner of the doorway.

"If you truly want to know what they mean, I'll tell you, Denae," he offered with a glint in his eye. Jorgarn's mouth dropped.

"No," Denae answered. "I will wait until I understand the language better and then sort it out. Otherwise, I will wait until Jorgarn is comfortable enough around me to tell me himself. It gives me a goal to shoot for."

Torbert laughed at Jorgarn's evident discomfort and rejoined the King in the other room. Soon, two laughing voices could be heard.

"Now," Denae said softly. "There is something else I want to discuss with you. This must remain private, just between us. Do you promise that?"

Jorgarn considered the request.

"So long as it poses no danger to you or the King, I can make that promise," he offered. "If you think it might, then you probably should not discuss it with me."

Denae smiled. It was a much better answer than she had hoped for.

"It will pose no danger to either of us," she assured him. "If you decide it might, you are released from your promise. I will leave it entirely up to your discretion."

"I promise then," he said. He wasn't certain why they were almost whispering. He felt like a conspirator.

"In 61 days I turn 15," she said. "That means in 62 days, I am expected to name my Knight Protector. Are you aware of the duties of a Knight Protector?"

Jorgarn shook his head. He probably knew some of them but he doubted he could name even a third of them.

"A Knight Protector is the monarch's right arm," she said. "He is a friend, a confidante. He will be more important to me than my future husband. He will have input on every important decision I make for the rest of my life. Not only will he be expected to protect me from anyone wishing me harm, he will be expected to protect me from myself. When I am in residence here, the Knight Protector will be Captain of the Guard. But when I travel, he is with me. Where the King goes, Torbert goes. Where I go, my Knight will go. There is more to it than that but what I've told you is the most important role he will play."

Jorgarn nodded. He had met no one he would trust to fulfill that role.

"My stepmother has been trying to convince me that Cruit Symington would be the best candidate," Denae continued. "And, quite frankly, she is right, as sad as that seems. The ideal Knight Protector would not be a dozen years older than me. The role is to be symbiotic. It is not designed for there to be a vast difference in worldliness and knowledge. He cannot be a mentor. He must be someone I could consider a friend. What I want you to do, over the next few weeks, is to watch Torbert and what he does. If you can ask him questions about his role with my father without him figuring out why, please do so. Although I may delay the announcement if need be, it could create problems. For instance, I would not be able to leave the castle without having named one. You are in a unique position to help me."

"I will do my best to learn as much about each candidate as I can, Your Highness," he answered. "I must admit that I have only seen the surface of most of those you might consider. The two men I share accommodations with, for instance, have shown a depth today in assisting me to get ready to dine with you that I would never have expected yesterday. However, neither is capable of defending you against a staunch threat. I have offered to give them individual lessons, so perhaps neither is lost to the post. Is there anyone in particular you would like for me to get to know better?"

The Princess smiled inwardly.

"I simply need you to learn what is expected and see how each potential candidate stacks up," she said. "I doubt anyone is going to fit the entire bill. Sir Torbert has set a high bar and it is a job one grows into just like being Queen will be. The best candidate might not be the best fighter just now. But he could be ideal if he is trainable. Similarly the best fighter might have portions of his personality that would be fatal to his candidacy. For instance, a braggart is not capable of losing that skill and it is not a skill that can be considered for a Knight Protector. I'm certain you understand that I cannot risk have the business of Emertland discussed over a pint of ale at the tavern. Further, he must understand that while his input will be sought on decisions, the final decision is mine. His ego must be able to withstand that eventuality."

The Princess sat back in her chair.

"It is a lifetime post," she said. "The selection of a Knight Protector has been called the most important decision a monarch will make in his or her life. My father has been offering me tips on my selection. He had a ready-make candidate in Torbert. They are only 15 months apart and they have been friends since Torbert's birth. It is said that my father used to stand guard beside Torbert's crib if his younger brother developed a cough. Torbert did the same for his younger siblings. I guess it was almost on-the-job training. Even if Torbert had declined the post, there were other candidates your mentors, Melodart and Gorin, for example. They were given the post of protecting my aunt and her children – including Lady Eslada. Either would have been a good choice as Knight Protector."

Denae sighed.

"Now I'm stuck with what you've seen," she said. "My choices are limited by the quality of man who wants to be a Noble Guard. Even if I find a suitable candidate, there is no assurance he will accept the post. It is an arduous job. Torbert says it has all the responsibilities of being head of state without any of the privileges. I'm not so certain he isn't right. If my father were to become ill or gravely wounded, Torbert would rule Emertland until my father's death. Not because he is the King?s brother and next in line that is pure happenstance. It is because he is Knight Protector of the Crown. That is the enormity of the task."

"I will do my best to look for the qualities you describe in the candidates, Your Highness," Jorgarn said. "Furthermore, I promise to offer my tutelage as a warrior to any person you select who might be lacking in that area."

"That is more than I could ask from you, Jorgarn," Denae said. "But I thank you and I might find it necessary. There is one more thing you can do for me."

"If I can, Your Highness," Jorgarn said.

"I want you to say one sentence that includes my name but doesn't include my title or Your Highness or Your Majesty or Your Most Benevolent Royal Personage," she giggled. "Can you do that? Just once?"

Jorgarn lowered his head and smiled.

"Yes, Denae," he said. "I believe that can be accomplished."

"Thank you, Jorgarn," she said as she put her hand on his arm again. "Now was that so difficult?"

-------

Torbert and Jorgarn were silent as they walked down the hallway out of the castle. Although Jorgarn had said he could find his way back to his lodgings, Torbert had insisted upon escorting him.

Once they passed through the doorway, Torbert spoke.

"Very interesting evening," he said. "What did you think of things?"

Jorgarn wasn't sure if he was expected to remain on his best behavior or if he could revert to the easy conversation the two had shared prior to dinner.

"It was enlightening, Sir Torbert," he said. He decided caution was warranted.

"At least you didn't tell Denae what your nicknames mean," the older man laughed. He had spotted Jorgarn's reluctance to speak freely.

"I was a little worried that you were going to reveal that tidbit," Jorgarn responded.

"I considered it; but why spoil the fun," Torbert said with a slap on Jorgarn's back. Torbert knew that, eventually, Denae would worm the information out of Jorgarn. She would wheedle and nag, beg and plead, or just be too cute for words until Jorgarn acquiesced. Torbert had enough experience around his niece and around his wife and daughters to know it to be a fact.

"Fun for you maybe," Jorgarn said with embarrassment. "I had no idea she was behind us. She should be a trained assassin."

Torbert nodded. He would have stopped Jorgarn at the time if he had heard Denae sneaking up on them. But now he was glad he hadn't.

"So, what was your private conversation about?" Torbert said. "Anything I should be aware of?"

Jorgarn explained Denae's request for tutoring on Longview and her offer to help him with the Emertland language. He left out the part where he was supposed to pry information from Torbert and be Denae's spy in the Noble Guard trainee camp.

Torbert stopped and placed a firm hand on Jorgarn's shoulder.

"That was all you discussed?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, we chatted about other things, how I grew up, how she grew up, nothing of importance," Jorgarn answered.

Torbert nodded.

"So there was no talk of the Knight Protector she must name," he said.

"Well," Jorgarn hedged. "She mentioned that she had a choice to make in the next few weeks. Symington's name came up and she mentioned how lucky His Majesty King Landor was to have you by his side. She related a story about how you would stand guard to protect your sisters from a cold."

Jorgarn tried to start walking again but Torbert held him fast.

"So she did not offer you the job?" he asked.

Jorgarn blinked.

"No," he stated firmly. "That did not come up in conversation nor did I get the impression that I am under consideration. I do not think I qualify, in any event."

"You don't," Torbert said. "However, that fact might not sway the Princess if she has her mind set upon something. You aren't even qualified yet to be a member of the Noble Guard. You have met the physical requirements but there are other things you need before I can promote you. Otherwise, you would already have a billet. I considered promoting you after I saw your abilities yesterday."

Jorgarn was silent for a moment before he spoke.

"What am I lacking other than tact and common sense?" he said in a semi-serious tone.

"Oh you have more of those than the other candidates," Torbert laughed. "What you don't have and what you must have before you can be a full member of the Noble Guard is a land holding. It must be in Emertland, by the way, so whatever you own in Longview will not count."

Jorgarn shrugged.

"I own nothing in Longview," he said simply. "Even if I would have owned something before I left, it would no longer be mine. I can't possess property there. I am not a citizen any longer."

"So you keep telling me," Torbert said, again with a smile. "It's hard for me and others to understand that. Lady Eslada hasn't stepped foot in Emertland for eight years. She is still a citizen and enjoys the full rights of the monarchy."

"She told me I would need to own land before I could assume my full duties," Jorgarn told the Captain. "I am supposed to speak to Lord Commerly, her brother and your nephew, I believe, when he comes to Court next. She said he would be happy to make arrangements for me, which surprises me because I have only met him twice once at Lord Longview's wedding and once last year when he visited his sister. Lord Commerly has land that he serves as regent over. Lady Eslada said he would be willing to part with it without consideration. But she seemed to think I would not need it for several months yet."

Torbert had started nodding at the beginning of Jorgarn's speech and he didn't appear ready to stop.

"Indeed," he said finally. "But unless Lord Commerly comes to the capital early, I am afraid it is no use to you. Court will not start for another five months. You will see him at the Ascension Ceremony, I'm sure. But that will also be too late. I believe the plan is for you to be well established by that time. Besides, I am not sure you would want the property he has to offer. It has something of a history that I suspect you will find offensive. Longview still holds a dim view of traitors, don't they?"

Torbert spat on the ground.

"They are killed in the cruelest way possible," Jorgarn said as if he was talking about the weather. "Men are sometimes quartered or burned alive. Women ... well, it is worse for women."

Torbert shuddered involuntarily. He had heard of the punishment for females convicted of treason.

"At any rate, I would like for you to remain a trainee for a while longer," Torbert said. "That way you can become familiar with the way things are done and familiar with the people you will be leading, should you choose to join the militia. With your skills there are several who would pay handsomely for you to lead their army."

Jorgarn considered the possibility. He enjoyed a warrior's way of life but he doubted the regimented life in a formal army would suit him. But it was something to keep in mind.

"You spoke of a plan earlier," Jorgarn prompted.

"Did I?" Torbert said with sly smile. "Huh, perhaps you misheard. If anyone has a plan for you, I'm sure you'll be made aware of it in due time. Anyway, it's back to the barracks with you. Lights go out in half an hour. Everyone will have to be sharp tomorrow."

The view of Torbert's back signaled that the conversation was at a close.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



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Chapter 6



"I'm afraid Jorgarn was tight lipped about what he discussed with the Princess," Torbert told the King only a short time later. "He did say that she did not offer him the post nor did she hint he was being considered."

The King sat heavily.

"Which means she is considering him rather carefully," he said. "Well, even after a short time with him, she could do worse."

"She would be hard-pressed to do better, if you ask me," Torbert said. "Honestly, I liked him before I even met him. You know I always had a soft spot for Eslada. She reminds me so much of her mother. It is a shame no one in Emertland would take the task of trying to tame her. Can you imagine how lively the Court would be with her there?"

Torbert smiled broadly.

"It sounds as though she has grown in the past years," the King offered. "I think she took young Jorgarn on as a project and it has helped not only him but her as well."

"Still, I wouldn't want to be on her bad side, especially if Jorgarn stands with her," Torbert said. "You really should take a few minutes to watch him soon."

"I trust your opinion of his skills," the King replied. "You say he is good, then he is good."

"He is the best," Torbert said with emphasis.

"The best?" the King asked as he sat forward. "Better than you even?"

"He is perhaps less skilled with a blade than I am," Torbert admitted. "But it wouldn't matter. He is too quick for me to get near and too strong for me to wear down. I would tire first and he would have me. I am not 15 any longer, Landor. But it is more than his skill you should see. Watch how he talks with the commoners. You should see how friendly he is to everyone. Well, everyone except those who anger him. Those he is not friendly to. In fact, I doubt he would piss on Symington if the boy were afire. We need to watch Symington."

The King nodded. The Queen bore close scrutiny too.

"His father has never been an ally," the King said. "It is rumored that he was poised to wed Lorida before I asked for her hand."

Torbert grinned.

"Perhaps he would take her now," he said as he patted his brother on the shoulder to show he was mostly jesting.

The King smiled ruefully but nodded slightly.

"Who would have thought that quiet little mouse would create so much havoc for me?" he wondered aloud. "I swear, Lorida was scared of her shadow when we met. Now six years later she roars like a lioness. I thought I was going to have to gag her at dinner."

"I thought Jorgarn was going to strangle her when she called him an exile and refuse," Torbert said. "I would probably have killed her guard just to give him the chance. But he regained his temper quickly."

The King smirked.

"You are losing your touch, brother," Landor said. "Denae touched his arm and looked at him to let him know he should calm down. That was all it took."

Torbert lowered his head. He had missed that small portion of byplay.

"I noticed she patted his hand afterward to let him know he had done well," he said. "So, how are we going to handle this? There are numerous ways around it, if you want."

The King shook his head.

"It is Denae's decision," he said. "There is no doubt that Jorgarn is better suited than anyone else down there. I can compel her to delay the decision until she turns 15. After that, there is nothing I can do and I'm not sure I would want to."

"He was offered the deed to Wesring," Torbert told him. "Commerly went over there last year and watched him train. I have no doubt he was impressed by what he saw."

The King's face hardened.

"I will give him land myself before I force him to own Wesring," the King said. "In fact, I will have you ship him back to Longview before I force him to own that. If I could, I would dissolve that region completely."

"You can," Torbert said. "You should. Change the name and allow Symington or Fieth to annex it. Parcel it into thirds and give it to all the surrounding estates. You've eliminated the lordship. It's just land now. Commerly would be well to be rid of it. Eslada said he likely would give it to Jorgarn without consideration just to have someone else hold it. Truly, I believe she thinks so highly of Jorgarn that she is convinced his skills will reform the entire area and it no longer will be looked upon as a land of treason."

The King's tight brow eased.

"I believe I will discuss its dissolution with Commerly when next he arrives," the King said. "I believe that Jorgarn will have enough on his plate without a reclamation project on the land of our dearly departed sister. Remind me, will you?"

Torbert nodded his agreement.

"Now, what do we do about Denae?" the King wondered aloud.

-------

The Princess was in her sitting room with her attendant, Rayna.

"So, what did Pernice say?" Denae asked. Rayna's sole mission was to glean information about the newcomer to the trainee ranks.

Rayna looked at her friend.

"He really didn't have much to say," she admitted. "He said Jorgarn, that's his name by the way, Jorgarn is the best fighter he's ever seen. But he didn't rub it in. The couple of times that someone scored against him, he didn't pout or yell. He simply asked them to show him how it was done. In return, Pernice said Jorgarn would show others how he had scored against them."

"So he makes no distinction between nobles and commoners," Denae said as if she was checking off a mental list.

"Not in the least," Rayna replied. "Pernice said you would never have known which group he belonged to."

She paused before her next statement.

"He said it is usually obvious," she added. "Some nobles refuse to train with the others. Some of them expect the commoners to simply lie down for them. Some hand-pick those they will train with. If the other fighter is too good, he is never chosen. Pernice said it is only the second time he has had a chance to spar with a noble. He dispatched the first one easily and no one would test him again. He said..."

She trailed off until prompted to continue.

"He said Jorgarn even brought him some water later," Rayna continued with a touch of embarrassment. "He told me that Jorgarn sat down right there with him and talked to him. Can you imagine Master Symington doing that?"

"No," Denae said stiffly. "But I can't see many of them doing it and I can't see Pernice enjoying the conversation if they did."

"That's the thing," Rayna said. "Pernice would hate that. He doesn't like any of the nobles except for maybe you. Honestly, I'm not sure about even that. But he likes Jorgarn. He smiled the whole time he was telling me about the new attack moves he was shown."

Rayna bit her lip and wondered if she should continue. It would put her in an awkward spot if Denae chose Symington as her protector. In fact, it would spell the end of their friendship if anyone knew where the information came from. Finally, the Princess' prodding drew her from her thoughts.

"He beat the tar out of Symington yesterday," Rayna said softly.

"I heard that but I haven't heard why," Denae confessed. "Cruit said it was a misunderstanding but I got the impression from Jorgarn this evening that there was more to it."

"You met with him?" Rayna asked. "Why did I have to waste my evening with Pernice talking about someone you were already talking to?"

Denae smiled and patted her friend's hand.

"Because I have to be somewhat circumspect and you don't," Denae replied. "At least not with Pernice. You could grill him about Jorgarn all evening but I couldn't just come out and ask him why he felt the need to thump someone he just met. So why did he?"

"Symington was a jackass to him," Rayna said. "At least that's the rumor. He started acting like he owned the place where Jorgarn is housed. I guess Symington was to be housed there, too. Well, from what Pernice heard, Jorgarn didn't take kindly to it. He heard Jorgarn lifted Symington completely off the floor by his throat!"

"I saw the bruises," Denae said. "I suspect that rumor is true. Anything else?"

"Symington didn't get the message even after Sir Torbert arrived so Jorgarn hit him between his legs," Rayna continued.

"He what?" Denae exclaimed.

"Pernice said Symington tried to block Jorgarn's way,? the attendant told her. "Jorgarn brought his knee up and smashed Symington's fruit. Then Symington attacked him with a sword. I don't really believe that. I mean, none of the trainees are permitted weapons inside. But Pernice swears it's true."

"It is true," Denae responded. "My uncle confirmed it. That's why Symington was whipped this morning."

"Oh, I wish I could have seen that," Rayna said bitterly. "He pinched my melon Saturday and left a huge mark. I hope they beat him bloody."

Denae's mouth dropped.

"He touched you and you said nothing to me?" she asked.

Rayna shrugged.

"I am a common girl," she replied. "What difference would it have made if I told you? A lot of them grab and grope us. They see us in the courtyard or even inside the walls of the castle and they paw at us. Symington is among the worst but he is far from the only one. I'm not the only one it happens to, either. Just about any of us who are attached to one of the Emertland trainees is subject to it."

"What does Pernice say about this ridiculous habit of theirs?" Denae asked harshly.

Rayna looked at her friend with sympathy. For all of her good qualities, Denae had led a sheltered, privileged life. She had no real concept of how the world turned.

"I cannot say anything to Pernice about this," Rayna said. "Nor should you. It would be a matter of honor for him. It would not turn out well."

"Pernice would flay the hide off any of them!" Denae declared defiantly.

"And then be executed by your father for doing it," Rayna pointed out. "No magistrate is going to allow someone who does that to a noble to go free. It would create chaos for a peasant to have the right to defend himself when aggrieved by nobility."

The sarcasm in Rayna's voice was not lost on Denae.

"Then no magistrate shall hear of it," she said. "I will speak to my uncle and tell him if I hear of it again, noble or commoner, I will make sure the man's arm ends at his elbow. If it happens twice, he will be left to wield a sword with just a stump. The Noble Guard is above this!"

"Perhaps it used to be," Rayna said. "I've heard stories about how daring and brave the Guardsmen were. But they are not anymore. They are spoiled, coddled simpletons whose fathers or mothers will buy them out of any problem. Did you know that only one in five of those in training will take the oath? The rest of them will graduate and use their parents? money to buy them a nice cushy spot on some foreign noble's army. Or they will convince some foreigner that a second son and with military training would make a fine match for their homely spinster daughter who just happens to inherit a great deal of land. Or worse, they will be like Tranim and simply go home, kill their brother and assume the lordship themselves. Believe me when I tell you, the majority of the Noble Guard trainees are far from noble."

Denae sat shocked at her friend?' impression of the aristocracy.

"Is that how you think of me?" Denae asked hesitantly.

"Before I got to know you, yes I did," Rayna answered. The initial anger she felt about Symington's forwardness returned in full force. "It took you a full week to even acknowledge I existed. It was hard for me not to view you as some distant icon who thought she was too important to speak to a mere servant's daughter."

"But I didn't think that!" Denae said quickly. There were tears in her eyes. She had tried so hard to view others and be viewed by them as just another person.

"I have come to realize that you simply were shy around people you didn't know," Rayna replied softly. Seeing her friend discomforted quelled her anger quickly. "But it took a while. Then there was the Queen. I don't mean this badly. You each acted the same toward me. She because she views me with contempt; you because you liked to see how people would react before you approached them. But from my vantage point, the actions were the same. But, I do hope you know, in the past four years, I've grown to know you and to love you, Princess."

Denae's chin rested on her chest as she sought to control her emotions. Rayna put an arm around her protectively. Denae was the future Queen of Emertland but at 14, she was still a little girl at times. Although she was less than a year older, Rayna's family had seen hard times after her father was killed. She had seen the seedier side of life. If she had ever worn blinders about life's harsh realities, they had long since been removed.

"So, Cruit and his friends really think they can do anything they want without fear of punishment," Denae said softly but with determination. "Well, I will do my best to ensure nothing like that happens again. And if I find out I am powerless to stop it, I'm certain a word to Jorgarn will put an end to it. Or, I suspect, he will put an end to them."

"Princess, Jorgarn has been extremely polite to everyone in time he's been here," Rayna said. "But so were the rest of them until they saw it made no difference how they behaved. Your uncle can't be everywhere and no one tells tales about anyone else. For all we know, Jorgarn might turn out to be just like them; or worse, even, because no one will be able to hand out punishment without fear of death. He seems nice enough. But make sure there is nothing hidden underneath that you don't like. He is too dangerous to have close by if he doesn't have your best interests completely at heart."

-------

Jorgarn was weary by the time he arrived at his barracks. But that didn't stop Fieth and Renoit from peppering him with questions.

"How was it?" Renoit asked before the door had closed behind Jorgarn.

"It was fine, I suppose," Jorgarn answered. "I really don't have much to compare it to. It was nicer than having dinner with the ruling family of Longview."

Fieth laughed at what he thought was a joke. It wasn't until he saw the seriousness on Jorgarn's face that he realized it wasn't meant to be humorous. He quickly apologized and was relieved when Jorgarn smiled back at him.

"If you had met my former family, you would understand," he said simply. "My stepmother was fine but she was expected to be reserved during sit-down dinners. I was expected to be almost invisible. I didn't mind because I would have rather not been there in the first place. I took my meals with the servants whenever I got the chance. Lady Eslada didn't have that luxury. So she had to sit and listen to two... ott bornta ... discuss things she knew more about than they did."

Fieth and Renoit looked at one another.

"I can guess that is not a nice, this ort botta thing," Renoit asked with a slight grin.

Jorgarn paused for a moment before answering.

"Perhaps you could help me find the right words to explain a couple of phrases that don't translate well," he asked.

Both of his barracks mates nodded their agreement.

"What are the sexual glands called here?" Jorgarn asked earnestly. Both of his companions broke out in laughter.

"Testes?" Renoit offered. "Or do you mean cruder?"

"Cruder I?m afraid," Jorgarn said. He wondered if this was such a good idea after all.

"Your nuggets, your sack, your nuts," Fieth offered.

"That's it," Jorgarn said. "Nuts. Like a squirrel eats. The phrase 'ott bornta' means 'numb nuts.' It means a person who is not very smart."

"We know what it means," Fieth laughed. "We use the same thing here. You can use 'numb skull' if you want to be polite. There are a lot of words that mean the same thing: moron, idiot, simpleton. But 'numb nuts' has a much more poetic ring to it. What else can we help with?"

"Uh, your sexual organ, a crude name for it," Jorgarn said.

"I call mine Big El," Fieth replied.

Jorgarn looked confused.

"His name is Elobert," Renoit said to clue him in.

"It was a joke," Fieth added quickly. "I was trying to be funny. Now, you got your stalk to go with your nugs. You got your woody, your wand, your wang, your willy. There are a thousand names for it."

"All of those work," Jorgarn said. "But not quite. The second word is 'breath.' Does that help??

Fieth and Renoit looked at each other and laughed.

"Peter breath," they said in unison.

"What is the Longview phrase for peter breath?" Renoit wanted to know.

"Karida dä," Jorgarn said reluctantly. He could just hear that phrase being passed around where the King or Sir Torbert might hear it. He fought a smile when he considered that it might be Princess Denae who was accused of introducing it to the local vernacular.

"Just so you know," Jorgarn said in a friendly way. "Sir Torbert speaks Longview. Or at least he knows the curse words. You might wish to refrain from using that phrase where it might be overheard."

Fieth and Renoit, disinclined to risk Jorgarn's ire, quickly agreed that the usage of Longview phrases was probably something left undone.

"What else did you discuss," Firth prodded. "I mean, you were there well past the length of a meal."

Jorgarn explained that the majority of the time was spent discussing his stepmother a relative of the royal family and how some of the customs in Longview were different than Emertland. He wanted to give the impression that it was a simple get-to-know-you dinner and that nothing extraordinary had transpired. He would have probably believed that himself if not for Torbert's statements as they left the castle.

"Isn't the dining room huge?" Renoit asked. "I got to eat with the family once a few years ago. You must be able to seat 30 people at that table."

Jorgarn's confusion was obvious.

"We must have eaten in a servant's area or something," he said. "There was only five of us and it wasn't crowded but you could probably only fit one more person at the table beside Sir Torbert."

"You ate in the private dining area!" Fieth said. He couldn't wait to rub that in Symington's face. Then something else struck him. "Wait, King Landor sat at one end and the Queen at the other. Sir Torbert was on one side and you were on the other. Where was Princess Denae?"

Jorgarn felt painted in a corner. He knew it would create issues if he told the truth but he wasn't eager to lie to anyone.

"She sat on the same side of the table as I did," Jorgarn admitted.

Renoit's jaw dropped.

"You sat beside the Princess in the family's private dining room," he said appreciatively. "Jorgarn, I think I need to explain something to you. The Royal Household hosts dinner guests frequently. Invariably those guests dine in the formal sitting area. My father has dined with the King a dozen times and he has never mentioned dining in the family area. Believe me, he would mention it."

"Mine, too," Fieth added. "Outside of Sir Torbert, you are probably the only person attached to this regiment in any capacity outside of the two nobles who accompany the Queen who has even seen the family dining area, let alone eaten there."

He was shaking his head in wonder.

"And Princess Denae sat beside you," Renoit put in.

"Well, on the same side of the table as me," Jorgarn corrected. He already seemed to be in a hole that was deep enough.

"Who sat on your other side?" Renoit asked as if it was the final piece to the puzzle.

"His Majesty, the King," Jorgarn replied.

Fieth slapped the table and smiled.

"I have to write my father a letter and tell him that on your second day in the country you have accomplished something a thousand men have dreamed of for the last five years," he said with excitement. "You sat between King Landor and Princess Denae, the current ruler and the future ruler, for a private dinner and conversation. If I thought for a moment that either my opinion or Renoit's here made a difference to you, I would say you're lying. But why would you lie? Do you even know how to lie?"

Fieth and Renoit glanced at the other and smiled.

"Symington would have lied," Renoit said.

"I can't wait to tell him he is no longer the palace favorite," Fieth added. "I can just see that smug smile disappearing. He'll be getting no more invites from the Princess."

"Uh, I was led to believe his invitations came from the Queen," Jorgarn said before he thought.

The laughter stopped almost immediately and then erupted again.

"It's why we could never see the letters," Fieth declared. "That sneaky karida dä. Sorry, I just had to use it once. Did I say it right?"

Jorgarn sighed but nodded. He hated to put a damper on the men's enthusiasm but he felt compelled.

"I would rather any portion of my conversation inside the palace be kept just between the three of us," he said. "I am not a fan of Cruit Symington either. But if he wants to pretend he is getting invitations from Her Highness, Princess Denae, then on his head be it. It is not our place to call him on it. I believe firmly that she will do that should she learn of it. Because of my relationship with the King's niece I anticipate that I might be invited back again. Should any of this conversation become public I would be remiss in sharing any further details with you."

"Can I at least write to my father about the seating arrangements?" Fieth asked after a moment's reflection.

"Will it anger or embarrass him?" Jorgarn asked.

"Most definitely," Fieth said with a feral smile.

"I take it that is your desire?" Jorgarn inquired.

"Most definitely," Fieth said again.

"Well, as someone who once had the chance to embarrass his father and didn't take it, I suppose that is acceptable," Jorgarn said with a laugh. "But let's not share it with anyone here. It would be particularly embarrassing to me if Sir Torbert thought I was attempting to brag about something."

Renoit noticed that Jorgarn had switched from vernacular slang to stilted formality in his speech. He had noticed the same speech pattern shortly before Symington was lifted off the ground.

"That is how it shall be then," he declared. "Anything we say within this building or to one another will remain in confidence unless permission is granted. Can we all agree to that?"

"I agree readily," Jorgarn said.

"And thank you," he added after a slight pause. "I will admit that I was ignorant of how the dining area and seating arrangements might be perceived. In hindsight, I shouldn't have been. You both have been helpful to me in figuring out how much information I should share. I hope I can count on you to lead me through any other etiquette mistakes I'll make in the future."

Fieth thought it was nice to have someone ask for his help instead of insisting up on it.

"Of course, although you're doing well," he told him. "There are bound to be differences between our cultures. Some of them are going to be major differences. As we get to know each other better, we'll get better at recognizing the larger ones."

Renoit nodded his agreement.

"But for now, I think it is time for lights out," he said. "The trainers would be quite upset if they found we were still awake and I can guess that our morning is going to begin quite early."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 7



For the next several days, life at the training complex was repetitive. Jorgarn was awakened before sunrise for his morning meal that consisted of oatmeal and bread with warm mead. Shortly after he arose he found himself on the practice field participating in stretching and strengthening exercises.

A lengthy endurance run followed the calisthenics. After a quick dip in a stream, the trainees would be allowed time for a brief snack or nap, as the case may be before the lessons would begin in earnest.

It followed the same routine that Jorgarn had completed on his own at the behest of Melodart and Gorin for the past two years.

Many of the trainees expected to see Jorgarn fall out early from the run. The ability to run for an extended period of time is not a skill a swordsman uses often. To most, Jorgarn was simply a swordsman a mightily skilled swordsman, but nothing more than a swordsman. Some of the upper-level trainees were hoping the endurance run would display a chink in the newcomer's armor.

The terrain at the training compound was flatter than the region Jorgarn usually covered so it was not much of a strain. The distance crossed was also about a half mile shorter than his usual route. Jorgarn kept a steady pace beside Fieth and Renoit and they completed the run with the first group. For Fieth and Renoit, it was the first time they had found themselves doing more than struggling to complete the exercise.

Symington was always content to lag behind and finish near the back. He had no need to impress the trainers. The Queen was his sponsor. He would gain promotion regardless of his skill.

But Symington was finding life difficult in Emertland Guard barracks. The commoners would not bow nor scrape to the newest member of their ranks. Symington's promotion was conditional. Sir Torbert made sure than Symington knew it and he made sure Symington's new comrades knew it.

As was tradition with the Emertland Guards, the cleaning duties were distributed by rank. As the newest member, Symington was given the task of keeping the bathing facilities clean. The senior soldier, called the Sergeant of the Guard, was a harsh taskmaster. He expected Symington to complete his tasks even after Symington was punished for his dustup with Jorgarn.

Symington expected to be able to take the rest of the day off. The punishment 10 lashes was not considered excessive given the infraction. The members of the Emertland Guard knew they would have been punished far more severely than Symington if they had been foolhardy enough to attack an unarmed man with the Captain of the Guard watching.

So they took it upon themselves to ensure a more fitting rebuke was delivered. Symington spent the remainder of his penalty day not lounging in his cot or receiving treatment for his back but by repeatedly cleaning the bathing facility until it met the company standards.

He had expected his promotion to mean less work and more free time but he found the Emertland Guard had a variety of duties that exceeded those of the Noble Guard. The Emertland Guard was responsible for policing the capital and ensuring the safety of its citizenry. Symington was appalled to learn he was expected to take a shift that spanned from the darkest of the night until morning meal in one of the city's dirtiest areas.

He immediately wrote to his benefactor the Queen to seek to ameliorate his situation. Although the Queen did respond to him two days later she regretted to inform him that the situation was out of her hands. She would still host him for dinners with the Royal Family but she could only offer the invitation if his schedule permitted.

The King had put his foot down and, although Queen Lorida disliked it, there was nothing she could do about it. The King had said, firmly, that no interference in the training or duties of the guard staff would be permitted by the Queen or by Princess Denae.

Sir Torbert had been informed of the behavior towards the young female attendants and had warned them about 'placing of hands upon female personages.' The punishment for an uninvited grope was 10 lashes for the first offense and dismissal from the training program for the second.

Jorgarn had listened to the announcement impassively. He was raised in a society where females, particularly common-born females, were given less worth then a fine stud horse. A woman's main job was to provide labor for the farms or the looms or the shops that the family owned. She could produce one child a year. A stud horse could produce two dozen beasts of burden from various mares per year. The horses matured faster and were less costly to raise. It was simple economics.

But Jorgarn had watched how Pietro had behaved toward women. He viewed them as property, as less than human. Without Eslada's entrance into his life during his formative years, Jorgarn might have grown up the same way.

He had known Eslada came from a society where women were viewed as almost equal. They could own property and hold high office. They were given an equal say in monetary matters and family decisions.

He had seen the respect offered to Eslada by Gorin and Melodart two men he had grown to respect himself and he had seen that Eslada was capable of much more than men gave her credit for. As a boy nearing manhood, it had given Jorgarn much to think about.

He pulled Fieth and Renoit aside after Sir Torbert's announcement.

"Get the word out, please," he said to the men who were becoming his companions if not his dearest friends, "if I hear of this, there will be no tribunal. I will find a way to either kill them or to maim them. There are enough willing girls that no one should force his attention on one who is unwilling. Let them know that if they plan to do something like that again, it would be best for Sir Torbert to find out before I did. Because they will enjoy my method of dealing with it far less than his."

Jorgarn knew from the look on his companions' faces that they had been guilty of the charge in the past. He also understood from the fear in their eyes that it was something they would not do in the future.

-------

"I warned you about going to Jorgarn with your threat," Rayna told Princess Denae a day later. "But you convinced him, so I guess it worked out."

"Convinced him of what?" Denae asked.

"To be the sword at the end of your arm if one of the trainees steps across the line again," Rayna said. She was worried that Denae was putting too much faith in this young man. "Pernice asked me last night if any of the nobles had bothered me. I told him it had happened to some of the others."

"But not you," Denae said.

Rayna shook her head.

"I will not put Pernice into the position of defending my honor against a noble," Rayna said. "Regardless of the reason, it will be harmful to him. But it seems that I won't have to since you spoke to Jorgarn about the situation."

"I haven't spoken to him since that first dinner," Denae protested. "He sent a nice note to thank me for my politeness at dinner but that was all. What did he say?"

"He said he would kill or injure anyone he suspected of doing that," Rayna said. "He passed the word that if the trainees were intent upon doing such things, he couldn't stop them. But he would kill them afterward."

Denae watched her friend carefully. There was a look on Rayna's face that she couldn't comprehend.

"What else?" Denae asked.

"Nothing else," Rayna replied. "Just kill or maim them. Do you think there should be more?"

Denae nodded. Actually, she did think there should be more punishment for molesting a woman perhaps slow torture leading to death or maiming.

"Then why do you look that way?" Denae insisted. "Are you unhappy about what either Sir Torbert or Jorgarn has threatened? Do you think that the women deserve to be treated that way? Did it somehow make you happy that you were?"

"Of course not!" Rayna said with a shake of her head. "I can see the wheels turning in your mind. We've been best friends since we were 11 years old. I know how you think. He did what you wanted him to do without you having to ask him to do it. He is strong and funny and polite and charming and rich."

"Don't forget handsome," Denae said to needle her friend a little. Jorgarn was not a man who would make women stop in their tracks to stare at him. He was, at best, average looking. "And he's not rich. But I am so that doesn't matter. What is your point?"

"My point is that I've seen men who have all the attributes of your Jorgarn," Rayna said sadly. "But those attributes were only on the surface. Those men seemed too good to be true because they were. Inside these men were not pleasant. You know very little about Jorgarn only what he's told you. He is subtler in his attempts to attract your attention but he has attracted it just the same. Just make sure you figure out what his game is before you do something you can't take back."

Rayna saw Denae's ears getting red and she knew her royal friend was angry.

"I know what Jorgarn has told me and what my cousin my father and uncle's favorite niece has written about him," Denae said angrily. "I wrote to Lady Eslada the very next morning to tell her that Jorgarn had been accepted into the program but that it was her duty as a member of the Emertland Royal Household to inform us if there was anything she had left out of her letters, good or bad. We had accepted him on her word. I am waiting for her reply. Incidentally, my father also wrote to Eslada. I understand he was less abrupt that I was, but his questions were the same. As for his subtlety, if you had seen him when Lorida offended him, you would know there is nothing subtle about him at times.

"When you visit with my father and stepmother or with any noble, what is the one emotion you never show?"

Rayna thought for a minute.

"Anger," she admitted.

"Exactly," Denae continued. "Well, Jorgarn got angry and he didn't care if she was the Queen or some gutter whore. Everyone in the room knew how he felt about her accusations. Does he know about you and Pernice?"

"What?" Rayna wondered. She had no idea where Denae was going with this conversation. "Maybe, no. I doubt it. He might know my name but Pernice is always careful about revealing too much about me. Some would use him to try to curry favor with you."

Denae nodded.

"So, he doesn't know about you or that we are friends," Denae answered. "Would you say that is correct?"

"Likely he doesn't," Rayna said tightly. She felt like she was in front of magistrate. She had been interrogated like this when she was younger and her brother had been caught with a gang of thieves. It wasn't a pleasant feeling.

"This is what I mean," Denae said with a proud look on her face. "Jorgarn had no idea that Sir Torbert's proclamation came from me. He had no idea that his promise would get back to me. He knows there will be repercussions from my uncle if he learns of Jorgarn's promise. Or, at least he will shortly understand if my uncle finds out. He made his vow because he doesn't like what was happening to the people of this town. He doesn't like the fact that nobles believe they are above everyone else. I saw that from his discussions of his father and brother. I could tell he views nobility very dimly.

"He wasn't excited at the prospect of dining with us. He was embarrassed. In his letter which thanked me, he wrote that he belatedly realized what a 'rare honor' it was to be invited into the family's private residence and he promised to keep that a secret so it wouldn't appear that he was favored. He chalked it up to the fact he is Eslada's stepson. Father invited him there to make him feel at ease. The exact reason he uses the formal dining area with others so they are ill at ease."

Denae put her hand on her friend's.

"Rayna, at some point soon I will name a Knight," she said sadly. "It is a fact that can't be denied. My relationship with my other friends might change because of that. I don't know. The friendship we have might change because of that. I know I don't want our friendship to change and I know I will do everything in my power to keep it the same or to make it better. But it is a fact that I will need to develop a strong relationship with my Knight even if it is at the expense of my other relationships. Please do not be troubled by that. My father managed to keep his closest friends beside him. You are my closest friend."

Denae patted Rayna's hand.

"Besides, once you and Pernice are wed, our relationship will change further," she continued. "But I do respect your judgment. Jorgarn is coming to the palace every evening for the rest of the week. He is giving me lessons about Longview and I am going to help him with the intricacies of Emertland's language. He tends to speak very formally and he sometimes misses subtle inflections that change the meaning of sentences. I would like for you to act as chaperone for his visits."

Denae glanced around to make sure they were alone and to ensure the Queen hadn't snuck up on them.

"My father and Sir Torbert left us alone in father's study," Denae confided.

Rayna gasped. Under most circumstances, that was tantamount to an invitation of marriage.

"I think father knew I wanted to discuss some things privately," Denae said. "But Jorgarn kept glancing at the door. As soon as father left, he shifted to the other side of the chair not closer to me but farther away. I asked repeatedly for him to call me Denae. He always refused. My father asked Jorgarn to call him King Landor. Jorgarn always refused. I promise that I will not name a Knight Protector until after I turn 15.

"I promise I will not name a Knight Protector even then if I have reservations about him. I will wait until Traymer completes his training if need be. Him, at least, I know I can trust. Meet Jorgarn for yourself this evening. Pernice thinks highly of him. My uncle thinks highly of him. I think highly of him. So far, only you and Lorida have expressed serious reservations about Jorgarn's character. Do you really want to be on the side of Queen Lorida on any matter?"

-------

The Princess' retinue greeted Jorgarn upon his arrival at the castle. He was thankful that Sir Torbert had managed to trade some of his Longview currency to outgoing sailors and for Renoit and Fieth's assistance in accumulating attire appropriate for a casual evening at the castle.

Jorgarn was still unaccustomed to the bright colors favored in Emertland. The blues and reds were much more distracting to the eye that his muted browns and greens.

The colorful gaggle of young ladies who stood outside the castle entrance to meet him resembled a peacock. Jorgarn believed that every color of the rainbow was represented and each insisted upon meeting him.

He kissed half a dozen hands before the last girl in line escorted him to an area on the opposite side of the dining room.

"The Princess will arrive shortly," she announced. She offered her hand for another kiss and departed. Jorgarn could hear her giggle in the silence of the castle. He didn't remember it being so quiet the last time he was there.

A few seconds after the girl, whose name was lost in the sea of others Jorgarn had met that night, departed, the Princess entered accompanied by another young woman. Jorgarn bowed and expected to have to repeat the hand kissing routine but instead the Princess sat down at a table and motioned for Jorgarn to join her.

The other young woman walked to the opposite side of the room.

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me, Master Jorgarn," the Princess said.

Jorgarn understood that this was a formal occasion and he should address the Princess accordingly.

"It is my honor, Your Highness," he replied with a bowed head.

"Would you care for refreshment?" Denae asked as she motioned toward a container and two goblets. "It's mulled mead. Is that acceptable?"

"Of course, Your Highness," Jorgarn said. Denae's stiff demeanor was a little off-putting after the way she had treated him previously. He wondered if it was because of the young woman who had stationed herself in the shadows by the door.

"Do you realize that there is someone standing in the shadows, Your Highness?" Jorgarn asked softly.

"Yes," the Princess whispered back with a smile. "She is our chaperone."

"Is there a reason she is standing and not sitting at the table, Your Highness?" he inquired.

"There are two reasons, actually," Denae said quietly. "First, she is hoping to remain unnoticed so she may hear our conversations better. I should have known that would not work."

Jorgarn nodded. If the woman wanted to remain unnoticed she should have entered separately. Perhaps others had been so overwhelmed by the Princess' presence that the woman had slipped away unnoticed.

"And the second, Your Highness?" Jorgarn wondered.

The Princess' smile widened.

"So you were not uncomfortable," she said. Jorgarn could tell she was trying not to laugh aloud. "She is of common birth. Many aristocrats are uncomfortable sharing a table with non-nobility."

Jorgarn couldn't help but roll his eyes, which sent the Princess into gales of laughter.

"Rayna, I see from Jorgarn's reaction that you are welcome to sit with us," she said. "Jorgarn Elmwood, this is Rayna Clain. She is my attendant and she is my best friend."

Jorgarn rose as the name entered his brain.

"Mistress Rayna," he said as he bowed and waited for her to extend her hand. Instead Rayna walked past him and sat down.

"I told you it wouldn't work," Denae chided. She spoke to Jorgarn next. "Rayna believes that your friendliness masks an ulterior motive, Jorgarn. She says I should be careful around you."

Jorgarn saw Rayna was blushing but she wore a slightly defiant look.

"She is right, Your Highness," Jorgarn agreed. "If she is the Rayna that Pernice speaks so highly of, I'm certain she has thought this through."

The Princess glanced from her friend to Jorgarn.

"So there is an ulterior motive to your friendliness?" she asked. "This is all an act?"

"This?" Jorgarn wondered. "No. But I'm certain you understand why the reports of my willingness to spent time with any of the trainees have been exaggerated."

"Oh, that," Denae said. "Yes. She knows all about that. I have no secrets from Rayna. Well, very few of them anyway."

"Well, then, she is also correct about being careful," he said. "Not just around me but around everyone. But I'm sure you already know that. Will Mistress Rayna be accompanying you on your journey, Your Highness?"

"It is almost assured that she will be asked," Denae said. She was still mulling over what Jorgarn had said.

"Then this will be beneficial to each of you," he said with a smile. "Mistress Rayna, would you care for mead?"

"I am no mistress," Rayna said.

"And I am no master but people insist upon calling me that," Jorgarn replied with a grin. "If others can make me a master, I think I should be able to make you a mistress."

Rayna couldn't help but smile back.

"I can't even get you to call me by my name," Denae said. "I think I will just make up a name for you. Perhaps one of your rude nicknames? That's what I'll do. If you insist upon calling me Your Highness or Your Majesty or Your Grand Dame or well, anything other than Denae or Princess Denae if it must be, I will contrive to find out your nicknames from my uncle. That seems fair."

Jorgarn lowered his head.

"I will do my best to refer to you as you desire, Princess Denae," he said. "And I will also drop 'Mistress' if you prefer, Rayna. Please, take this drink."

"I can get another goblet from the kitchen," Rayna said.

"As can I," Jorgarn insisted. "Well, I think I can. I can't imagine they would deny me a goblet if I asked. Anyway, if I were to go then you would still be upholding your chaperone duties."

"I am not a chaperone," Rayna said, shaking her head. "Besides, I've already heard of your un-chaperoned encounter."

Jorgarn looked at Denae with surprise. Regardless of how close a friend Rayna was, that was something that should have gone unmentioned.

"It sort of slipped," she said with a shrug. "But, yes, Jorgarn, they will give you a goblet. Thank you. It is very polite of you."

Jorgarn nodded and went to the kitchen. No one even bothered to ask why he needed a goblet. They simply handed him one when he asked.

The girls were deep in conversation when Jorgarn returned so he tried to be loud enough to let them know he was coming. It didn't matter because their conversation continued.

"I just don?t want you to enter the situation blindly," Rayna insisted.

"And I want you to keep an open mind," Denae replied. "I swear, you are getting as bad about this as my stepmother."

The last statement brought Rayna up short and the pair noticed Jorgarn had returned.

"Let us begin," Denae said. "How did you learn our language, Jorgarn?"

He sighed.

"I was given intense instructions by your cousin," he said. "She would point at an object and tell me what the correct word was in Emertland. We would intermix that with conversational topics: the weather, our health. I truly had no idea of what language I was learning until about a year ago. I knew Lady Eslada came from here but it never occurred to me that you spoke a separate language. Until recently, I had never left Longview."

"Let's try that then," Denae decided.

Two long hours later the conversation had devolved into tales about Jorgarn's life and some of the silly things the Princess had attempted. Rayna sat mostly silent.

"I apologize, Princess Denae, but I must draw this to a close," Jorgarn said. "It is almost time for lights out and I must be in the barracks. Do you still wish to continue tomorrow?"

"Of course," she said. "This was fun. I love learning new things. Rayna, I need a few moments of private conversation with Jorgarn. You can resume your post by the door if you would like or you may wait outside."

Rayna nodded and exited. Jorgarn could tell by the shadow that fell across the doorway that she was just outside the door.

"She doesn't seem to care for me much," Jorgarn said quietly.

Denae pursed her lips. Her friend's attitude had been the lone sore point of the evening.

"She is suspicious of you," Denae said. "She told me she thought you seemed too good to be true."

Jorgarn chuckled.

"Far from it," he said. "I mean, the too good part. I try to be true. Well, you know what I mean."

Denae put her hand on Jorgarn's arm.

"I heard how you will deal with those who molest women," she said.

Jorgarn didn't speak. He was not about to deny it but he thought confirming it might mean admitting he had vastly overstepped his bounds.

"Thank you, Jorgarn," Denae said as she leaned closely and kissed his cheek. "I was the one who insisted that my uncle take action. I'm certain that he would do what he could to stop it but knowing that you'll take care of anything he might miss is comforting."

Jorgarn had gulped when Denae's lips had brushed his cheek.

"How goes the mission?" she asked.

"Poorly, I'm afraid," he stated. "I have done my best to take time to speak with almost all the noble guard trainees. I was surprised to learn that most of them will never take the oath. The most promising possibilities will not be around to help you. The ones who will, well..."

He glanced upward.

"Yes," Denae sighed. "So have you gotten the chance to discuss the parameters with Sir Torbert?"

"I understand the basic qualifications," he said. "But I don't think I'm going to be able to help much. It seems to me that the main requirement is the ability to interact well with you. Now that I've met Rayna, I have something else you might consider. What about Pernice?"

"He is common born," Denae said. "You know that and if you know the qualifications, you know he can't be named Knight Protector."

"I am unsure about how it works here but in Longview anyone can be granted a title and thus nobility," he explained. "Fieth and Renoit have been giving me pointers on the societal makeup here. I know there are Lords and Ladies but there are also Barons and Baronesses. If I understand correctly, those are sort of a second-tier of nobility. There is no set number of them and an appointment can be made at any time. Could you name Pernice a baron and make him royalty? I think of everyone I've met, he would most closely qualify. I certainly would trust him more than I would any of the others. He also seems level-headed and I think he has a wit that would keep you on your toes."

Denae shook her head slightly. This was coming entirely too close to what she was really considering for her comfort.

"He still would not be noble born," she explained. "His child would be eligible. Additionally, it would preclude him from a future with Rayna. Besides, I don't think Pernice would be suitable for what I am looking for. The person named Knight Protector would have to be willing to place that responsibility above all others. It would never do for him to be enamored with one of my attendants. What would happen if a situation arose where only one of us could be saved? If he chose her, the Queen would die and he would be scorned. If he chose me, he would never forgive me for living while his beloved died. It simply could not work. Now before you go, my father would like to meet with you. We're later than I expected we would be so I'll check to make sure he is still in his study."

Jorgarn nodded his agreement and stood to walk the Princess to the door. Rayna was still standing there but her look softened. She stayed behind when Denae knocked on her father's door.

"You would recommend Pernice to be Knight Protector?" she asked.

"I believe I just did," Jorgarn said. "I understand her reasoning, however, for passing. Even if it were possible, it wouldn't work. Honestly, I don't know the Princess well enough to give her advice on this. I think Sir Torbert is in a better position although I understand his reluctance. He can't push for a candidate because he would still have to work closely with her Knight even if she chose another."

Rayna stood and looked up at Jorgarn for a moment.

"Pernice likes you," she said. "The Princess likes you. I care about both of them. Please don't let them be wrong about you. There is too much riding on it for you to be dishonest about anything. I will never ask you for much. But please, if you think Denae's faith in you is misplaced you must tell her. If you are hiding anything, she must know. If you can't tell her yourself if it would embarrass you or embarrass her you can tell Pernice or tell me. I can tell her I found out about it another way."

"Just what do you think I am?" Jorgarn asked. Rayna's comments were irksome. He had never, to his knowledge, done anything to harm her. He had befriended the man she planned to marry and he fully intended to make sure Pernice could follow him if that is what the couple wanted.

"I don't know what you are," Rayna admitted. "I can find the flaws in everyone. I can always spot something unlikeable. I can't with you. You don't act like any noble I've ever met. And that bothers me."

"Then don't think of me as one," Jorgarn said. "The idea of nobility is different in Longview. Only the Lord and his heir are seen as unapproachable or untouchable and that is because of their personalities, not because of their title. I understand what you're saying. I've seen it firsthand in the past few days. But just because I don't fit into the niche you've created for me doesn't mean I'm insincere in my actions. Judge me on those, not on how you think I should react."

Rayna nodded but she didn't reply.

"My father will see you now," Denae said as she walked toward them. As was her habit, she had listened to as much of the whispered conversation as she could hear before announcing her presence.

"It was a pleasure to meet you, Rayna," Jorgarn said in parting. He acknowledged Denae with another bow. "Do you still wish our lessons to continue, Your Highness?"

In a lower voice he continued.

"Or have I done enough to assuage your friend's fears?"

Denae's blush could be seen even in the dim light. She knew that Jorgarn had caught her eavesdropping again.

"Of course, Jorgarn," Denae said. "Tonight was very informative. I believe that we shall have my language skills up to par in plenty of time. Good night, Master Elmwood."

"Good night to you, Your Highness," Jorgarn rejoined.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 8



The King greeted Jorgarn upon his entrance into the study.

"I understand the lessons went well," he said. "Thank you for coming. She has been unbearable the past few days. Once she gets her mind set, it is impossible to refocus it somewhere else. And right now she is determined to learn to speak Longview."

"The Princess has picked up on a great many of the common words very quickly, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said.

The King directed Jorgarn to a chair opposite him.

"I understand Eslada has made arrangements with her brother to transfer property to you," the King said.

"Yes, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "At least I think that is the case. I will have to speak to Lord Commerly when he arrives for Court."

The King nodded gravely and turned toward the door. Sir Torbert appeared from the adjoining room. A chill went down Jorgarn's spine.

"It will not be possible for you to accept that offer," the King said when Torbert was seated. "Wesring is to be disbanded. It is a lordless holding, with Commerly acting as steward until final disposition. I have decided to divide the land into the three adjoining grants. I'm sorry and I want you to understand why I'm doing this."

Jorgarn nodded, remembering Torbert had said there was a history behind the land.

"The first man I killed came from Wesring," Sir Torbert said. "He was my nephew. The last Lady Wesring was our sister. When our father, King Luthen, was near death her son was in the Noble Guard. He attempted to kill me so King Landor would be unprotected. He then planned to kill Landor so his mother could assume the throne."

"Eslada's mother was a traitor!" Jorgarn exclaimed without thinking.

"No, Jorgarn," the King said gently. "But her aunt was. The same as Denae's aunt was a traitor. Eslada's mother is our youngest sister. There were four of us. Landor, Torbert, Soria and Melid. Soria was the traitor. Melid is still alive although she has ceded control of her holdings to her son, Lord Commerly. Torbert is Lord Weltin; Soria was Lady Wesring; Melid was Lady Commerly. I was heir to the throne so although I possess property, I hold no other title."

"I am sorry for interrupting you, Your Majesty and Sir Torbert," Jorgarn apologized with a red face. "It's just, well, Lady Eslada spoke to me frequently about the need for honor and chivalry. I simply couldn't fathom that she could be the daughter of a traitor. Please, accept my deepest apologies."

"No apologies necessary, Jorgarn," the King said. "It's obvious that you hold a deep affection for Lady Eslada. All in this room do."

"She is like an older sister to me, Sire," Jorgarn said. "That's what she said before I left. She was too young to be my mother but she always thought of me as her younger brother. It meant a great deal to me."

"As it should," the King said with a glance at Torbert. "I will confess to an abiding fondness for my younger brother and sister. Now, Torbert, pray, continue."

Sir Torbert nodded.

"I liked Cray, Soria's son," Torbert said. "I liked him very well. We were in our 30s by then. Denae was already born. I misread the signals and he almost succeeded in killing us."

Torbert pulled his tunic aside to show a deep scar on his chest.

"Even after he wounded me, it was difficult for me to kill him," Torbert continued. "It broke our mother's heart to learn of Soria's deceit. I'll swear on my deathbed that that awful woman's plot took 20 years off our mother's life. Father was too far gone to notice. He died a few days later. Soria came to the palace fully expecting to be proclaimed Queen. Landor's first official act as King was to order the execution of his younger sister."

Both men were shaking their head sadly.

"The entire family was in on the plot," the King said. "From her husband to her 12-year-old daughter. Every one of them had a part in planning my death. The little girl was the hardest for me to execute. But it had to be done. I ordered the Lordship of Wesring to be vacated permanently and for the land to be under the stewardship of Lady Commerly. That stewardship passed down to her son. But it is time for the Wesring name to be stricken for all time. I most certainly never want it to be associated with you or with Eslada."

Jorgarn nodded his understanding.

"Your Highness, may I request to be transferred to the Emertland Guard?" Jorgarn asked. "I would enjoy staying here and serving Your Majesty. In my short time here, I have come to see why Lady Eslada admires you and your brother so greatly."

The King glanced at Torbert and smiled. The Emertland guards would not be getting Jorgarn Elmwood but they would be getting double rations of ale for the next 10 days. Torbert had wagered against a week in the kitchen that Jorgarn would ask to be transferred rather than dismissed.

"That is not possible either, Jorgarn," Torbert said. "As of tonight, you have been promoted to the rank of full member of the Noble Guard. It would be impossible for you to be transferred."

Jorgarn tried to hide his confusion and failed.

"I have decided to deed you property from my personal holdings," the King said. "It is a small parcel but it will suffice for this purpose. It is part of a section of land that was given to my first wife your cousin by my father upon our wedding. There is no lord there at present. It is under the regency of the crown for a while longer. You will begin your duties with the Noble Guard in the morning. However, there is one caveat."

He glanced at Torbert.

"You will be training our students," the Captain of the Guard stated. "You will work in the mornings with the Noble Guard and in the afternoons with the Emertland Guard. The evenings that Princess Denae does not claim, I would like for you to offer individual instruction as I can see you're doing with Fieth and Renoit. You will continue to reside within the training complex and you may stay in your present room if it suits you. You seem to have converted Renoit and Fieth to your way of thinking. I hope you can bring the rest of them around, too."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I'm honored and I would like to remain where I am, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. His head was swimming with the information. The King himself had deeded him property and now he was promoted to full guard. "Would it be best if I focused my instruction on those who plan to take the oath?"

Torbert sighed.

"It would be best but there is no way of knowing who will and who won't stay until the time comes," he said.

"I have an inkling, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn admitted. "I assumed that everyone would want to serve in that manner. It surprised me when I learned that it is actually very few who are willing to offer that commitment. I did an informal survey on my own."

His face reddened.

"I believe that most were too scared of me to lie about it," he continued embarrassedly. "I hope I have not crossed a boundary. Outside of me, I expect nine of the 40 to continue: Fieth, Renoit and Darnot are sons of nobility; Tolic, Wanner, Nooth and Turco have sent relatives that are solid. Crenal and Armur sent men who are pretty definite, simply because there is little choice for them. Their family's holdings are too small to support them and they will never land a spot in someone else's army."

Torbert was listening carefully.

"What of Lippit?" he asked.

Jorgarn looked at the floor.

"He is unlikely to stay if he cannot lead," Jorgarn said. "He obviously cannot lead so he will leave. It is simply a question of if he will leave in whole or in pieces."

"He has angered you?" the King asked.

"He has gone against the expressed wishes of someone I respect, Sire," Jorgarn said. "Two people, I have come to find out. If it is at all possible I would prefer to leave it at that. He will be offered the opportunity to depart. If he chooses to stay, he will be in no shape to join the Noble Guard."

Torbert shook his head angrily and Jorgarn waited for him to explode.

"They simply couldn't leave them alone," he said. "I warned them. You threatened them. They still insist upon dallying with those who don't wish their company. Kill him if you want. It will be a training incident. Perhaps it will teach those other bastard sons of bastard lords that it is no joke."

Jorgarn nodded his agreement.

"We have a problem with some of them," Jorgarn told them. "They insist upon focusing their attention on the young women who are attached to members of the Emertland Guard. With Symington now housed there it has become a bigger problem because he seems to be able to point them out. The nobles believe probably correctly that the magistrate will take his word over a commoner. The Emertland Guard is powerless to stop the aristocrats from behaving however they want. I, however, am not."

He paused.

"You realize that if someone abuses the Princess' friends, she will want blood," he said.

"She threatened to cut their hands off," the King said. "So yes, I am aware of that."

He looked Jorgarn in the eye.

"If it comes to that, would you be her champion?" he asked. "Would you fight in her place?"

"If she desired it or if you could convince her, then yes," Jorgarn said. "But there might be a better way."

"I'll listen if you have one," Torbert said with disgust.

"Tomorrow morning, grab all of the trainees me included and line them up," he said. "Invite the Emertland Guard to watch and announce that it has come to your attention that Lippit has assaulted a female and because of this all noble trainees are to be flogged. Each of us gets 10 lashes whenever anyone is caught or even thought doing that. After that, allow me a brief moment alone with Lippit. No one will protest it by then, not after he got them all caned. I'll deal with it from there. It can be my first duty as trainer. You can bet that the nobles who don't pack up and leave right away will make sure the others behave themselves. I can imagine a flogging will hurt greatly."

Torbert looked at the King.

"It will make you no friends," the King said.

"I have never had a friend, Sire," Jorgarn said. "I am not here to start making them now. I am here to uphold the safety of your household and improve the reputation of the Noble Guard. If I have to harm every second son or another family member of every Lord and Lady in Emertland to do that, that's what I'll do."

"So be it," Torbert said. It was ultimately his decision to make. "If you decide to kill him, make it hurt."

-------

In 15 years, Jorgarn had never felt the sting of physical punishment. His father had ignored him and reviled him but he had never struck him. His trainers had battered his body with wooden practice swords but they had never humiliated him physically.

Pietro had punched and pinched Jorgarn from time to time until Jorgarn was old enough to fight back. The first time Jorgarn responded to Pietro in kind, miraculously, was the last time Pietro felt the need to try to prove his physical superiority.

By the age of 12, Jorgarn was taller and stronger than his 19-year-old brother, another source of embarrassment for the heir to the lordship. While warriors and men-at-arms mocked Pietro and his penchant for malevolence they had no choice but to fear Pietro because he did not have the sense to know when to stop. He would kill a man for no reason and without remorse.

Many of those same men were wise enough to fear Jorgarn's skill, yet they knew they were safe in his presence so long as they maintained a sense of decorum. Despite having the ability to kill, Jorgarn had never been forced to act simply because those around him knew he possessed the ability.

Jorgarn clearly posed a more immediate physical danger to them, yet Pietro's imbalance was a bigger threat for long-term harm. Even Lord Longview had recognized the fact that his oldest son would be more likely to participate in an unprovoked attack in an attempt to seize the lordship. But his younger son would be the one who ultimately would decide who actually lived or died.

He was thankful that Jorgarn had somehow turned out to have a solid sense of right and wrong. If Pietro had managed to bend Jorgarn to his warped way of viewing the world, the heir would inherit the Manor in bloodshed.

Pietro always viewed Jorgarn as the wild card. He had hatched many plots to take over Longview by violence. He had schemed his father's death on numerous occasions. But he had never been able to act upon them for fear that Jorgarn would act to protect the Lord. Pietro knew Jorgarn would have to be the first to die, for the simple reason that if Pietro assumed the Manor by assassination, no one would bat an eye if Jorgarn did the same.

Once word trickled out that Jorgarn had been sent away, not to the priesthood on Longview but to some foreign land, Pietro decided it was time to grab what was rightfully was his.

-------

The wooden rod bit into Jorgarn's back and his breath exited in a whoosh. Pain flared through his body and his eyes filled with tears.

He had scarcely heard the air whistling behind him before the cane impacted against his skin. Instantly he felt his back was in flames. Another blow fell and then a third. Many of the trainees had cheered when Jorgarn's lashes began. He had disrupted the easy way of life the nobles felt was their due. He had brought the training to a new level.

His visits to the palace were rumored but never confirmed. Still, it was enough for the young aristocrats to derive pleasure from his punishment despite the fact they knew their punishment was coming soon.

By the time the 10th blow then the 11th and 12th undeserved blows –fell, no one was cheering. Like all the cadets, Jorgarn was bound to a post and helpless during his punishment. The man who volunteered to deliver Jorgarn's blows had been a Noble Guard for only five years. Until Jorgarn's arrival, he was considered the best archer in the group and probably the best in the field. Those were his claims to fame among the guardsmen.

Now he knew he would be relegated to mundane tasks. He no longer would be sent to do the things he enjoyed doing hunting, stalking, woodcraft because he no longer would be the best person for the job. He beat Jorgarn with savage viciousness. Three members of the training class had received their punishment prior to Jorgarn. It was firm but not harsh. The purpose of the lashes was to produce physical pain to a certain extent. Mostly it was for psychological effect. It was not designed to produce permanent wounds and bloodshed.

Jorgarn was struggling at his bonds when he heard the rod cutting through the air for the 13th stripe on his back. But the blow didn't fall.

"It was 10, you pig bastard," he heard through the ringing in his ears that the anger had produced. He felt hands on his wrists and they soon were free. He turned to face his tormentor.

"I will have you up there next," a red-faced man screamed at Fieth and Renoit, who had tackled the man when he hadn't stopped at 10.

"Please get off him, gentlemen," Jorgarn said in almost a whisper. The look of rage on his face brought Fieth and Renoit to their feet. "And thank you."

He reached down and picked up the flexible rod and turned the guardsman who had delivered his caning. In barely an instant Jorgarn had delivered two lashes to the man one on each cheek that likely would scar him forever.

"A nobleman should be able to count," Jorgarn said angrily. "Those marks will remind you 12 is greater than 10. If you seek retribution on Master Fieth and Master Renoit, you will need to go through tribunal and then through me."

The man felt the blood running down his cheeks and the searing pain the lash had brought. Jorgarn hadn't put much force behind the blows. He wanted maximum visible damage but he didn't want the man incapacitated. He also didn't want to risk taking the man's eyes out.

Sir Torbert had left the compound during Jorgarn's turn. He didn't wish to see an undeserved punishment handed down. The stunned silence from the gathering brought him back quickly.

"What goes here?" he asked the Emertland Guard sergeant who was nominally in charge of the proceedings. The Emertland Guard had their swords drawn but they weren't pointed at Jorgarn.

"Master Seni decided 10 wasn't enough so he sought to add more," Sergeant Anklus said through gritted teeth. "Those two stopped the additional punishment."

He gestured toward Fieth and Renoit who were standing beside Jorgarn seething.

"Then Master Elmwood took the two extra lashes back," Anklus said. "I believe that should be the custom when one loses count."

Torbert looked from Jorgarn who had blood running down his back and pooling at his feet to Bren Seni, whose clamped hands couldn't stop the river of red soaking his tunic.

"On your feet!" Torbert screamed. "On your feet this instant. You will defend your honor. You will defend your life and your place in the Noble Guard. I will have no more of this from any of you. If you do not like this program, leave it. Take your sorry tails home to your Mommies and your Daddies. If you stay you will earn your rank. Now, Seni, on your feet or I will slay you where you sit."

The man had to pull his hands from his face to get to his feet. None of his comrades offered a hand to assist him.

"The rest of you, to your barracks," Torbert yelled. "Each of you will receive 10 lashes and short rations for the rest of the month because of Seni's actions. It took two trainees to stop him. The rest of you stood around and did nothing. That is unacceptable. If something like this happens again, I will disband the Noble Guard and history will mark your names as the men whose imperious manner and vile actions brought it about.

"I have been too lax for too long. I have put numbers ahead of quality. But no more. I do not care if your parents quarrel and complain. I do not care if the Noble Guard numbers in the teens. No longer will I accept substandard effort and substandard men in the vain hope you will grow into the job. From this moment forward, each candidate will have to pass a rigorous exam before he is accepted to candidacy. His trials as a trainee will be 10 times worse than any of you faced. It used to be an honor to wear that tunic. It used to bring me pride to be Captain of the Noble Guard. Now it brings me nothing but disgust.

"Go, all of you. I will see to Seni myself and I will attend the remaining punishments myself. If I so much as see or hear from any of you for the remainder of this day, I will kill you."

He turned to Anklus who was ushering his men to their barracks.

"Emertland Guard will stand watch," he said. "Bind that man to the post."

He gestured toward Seni who was attempting to mix with the rest of the nobles who were making a hasty retreat to their lodgings.

Seni struggled and flailed but the point of a sword to his throat helped him regain his senses.

"You may set your punishment," Torbert said. "Ten lashes and you are finished with the guards. If you wish to stay here, it is 25 lashes with a whip and not a rod. Make your choice. You have until I can fetch the implements."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 9



Bren Seni knew he had no real choice. He was the second of seven children produced by Lady Seni and her husbands. There was no place for him in his mother's holding. He was the only one with a real chance to leave the small shire and make something of himself.

Yet he knew his life as a guard was probably over. He had fallen into the trap that was set for him. He had arrived at the capital five years before with ideas and ideals. He wanted to be the best Noble Guard he possibly could be.

But five years around men who took what they wanted and expected life to be handed to them had taken its toll. Seni never expected retribution – at least not in the form it had come. He should have seen the writing on the wall. Torbert had stiffened in the last weeks. He no longer coddled the royals as he had come to do. It was if he had taken a look at what he was responsible for and found it lacking.

"I will take the 25 lashes, Sir Torbert," Seni said. "I humbly beg your apology. I have disgraced my house, my parents and the Noble Guard. If you deem I should be released, I still will accept 25 and I beg that you allow another of my kin to train for the guard in my place. I believe you will find my brother, Selit Seni, to be more worthy."

"You will have 25 lashes and you will remain in the guard, if you desire," Torbert announced. "The next infraction will cost you 50 lashes and exile. Master Fieth, please fetch the medic. I am certain Master Seni will need one."

Fieth ran off to do as he was bid and arrived back in time to see the last of the 25 lashes land. Torbert had made sure he left a stripe for each blow on the man's back but he had done his best to keep the damage to a minimum. The wounds on his face would be a lifelong reminder of his transgression.

"Unbind him and help him to wherever the medic wants him," Torbert directed Anklus. "Fieth, you're next. I will add two lashes to your punishment for your attack. Or you may forego the punishment and leave the complex."

"I will accept 12, Sir Torbert," Fieth said. "And I will accept more in the future if something like that happens. I will police my brethren if they cannot police themselves upon pain of my death."

Torbert's face stayed set in a mask as Fieth was strapped to the post.

Jorgarn had refused to move from his spot and a medic was treating his wounds where he stood in front of the whipping post. Fieth's eyes were set in determination as he accepted the punishment for the actions of others. Jorgarn wanted to look away but instead he locked eyes with his comrade and hoped his look conveyed his pride for Fieth's words and actions.

He cut Fieth loose when the punishment was concluded. Like Jorgarn, Fieth refused to move while Renoit was strapped to the wooden pole. He too accepted 12 lashes with resolve and vowed he would do whatever Sir Torbert asked to make the Noble Guard noble again.

Twelve recruits left for home that day. Many thought a resignation would allow them to forego the lashes. Torbert refused to accept their resignations, punished them and sent them home anyway.

More surprising were the nine that accepted two additional lashes and offered a vow to help restore the Noble Guard image.

Finally it was time for the man who had caused this outrage to be brought forward. Lippit had cheered among the loudest at the cruelty Seni displayed to Jorgarn. The more punishment Seni dished out, the more likely Lippit was to survive the day.

Once word reached the right ears of who was responsible for the mass whipping and why, Lippit knew his time was limited. Even if Jorgarn didn't kill him, one of the others would. His attempts to sneak away to flee were met by drawn swords from those he once considered friends.

Like Seni, he had come to the capital with plans and goals. He was not an exceptional fighter but he was cunning. Lippit's main contribution would never be in the field but before the action began. He was a planner, a plotter. He had a knack for knowing just how much wheat would be needed for each barracks and for finding it at the best price.

He wasn't so much of a militarist but he had shown his capability there, too, during training. The lone time the Noble Guard had found its Emertland Guard counterparts during field exercises, it was because Lippit had used maps and his understanding of the opposition to pinpoint within a hundred yards where the Emertland Guard had encamped.

He closed his eyes and tried to maintain his composure as he walked forward to the post and held out his hands to be bound above his head.

"I will accept the additional two lashes," he said. "Not that I shall live long enough to make amends for my crime."

"Will you accept 25 if your punishment ends there?" Jorgarn asked. It had not gone unnoticed that the 11 who had accepted the additional punishment and made the pledge to assist Sir Torbert's goal now stood beside Jorgarn.

"I will, Master Jorgarn, if Sir Torbert deems that appropriate," Lippit said. "Further, I will apologize personally to the young woman I accosted and to each and every guardsman who was punished in my place."

Jorgarn lifted his eyes to Sir Torbert. He still saw anger there and he understood it was not simply about Lippit's failings or Seni's failings or Jorgarn's failings. The anger in Sir Torbert's eyes was a reflection of his own failings.

"So be it," Sir Torbert said simply. Lippit's punishment was harsher than anyone but Jorgarn's. Sir Torbert took his time, allowed the pain to reach its threshold before the next blow fell. Lippit could scarcely stand when it was over so Jorgarn and the group that stood with him gently helped him to his feet and escorted him to the medic.

"Master Elmwood, stay behind," Sir Torbert said. "The rest of you, be gone. If I so much as hear a whisper or see your shadow the rest of the day, your punishment will be banishment to farthest reaches I can find."

The men moved away as quickly as they could, leaving Jorgarn to face Sir Torbert.

"Let me look," Torbert said softly when the other men were back in the barracks. Jorgarn turned to display his raw back. Seni had placed the blows in close succession, no two landing on the same spot but just close enough so his back was raw for almost three hands across and two hands down.

"You need to have that treated daily for the next few days," Torbert said sadly. "I apologize for allowing this to get out of hand. I had no idea it had reached this point."

"You said I wouldn't win any friends," Jorgarn said. "I expected my beating to be worse than the others. I did not expect to have someone lose his mind."

"He didn't lose his mind," Torbert said. "He understood what he was doing and he expected to be allowed to do it. I have caused this as surely as if I wielded the cane myself. I have failed miserably as Captain."

"It is an unworkable system, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. "I have read much of the guard's history of the past few days. The Guard is not designed as a clearinghouse for just anyone who wishes to join. It is designed to train the best soldiers. Those who aren't among the best were sent home. But we are not at war. We haven't been at war for 95 years. So the Guard became glorified body shields and a place to send a child that couldn-t be kept at home for economic reasons. The 11... 12, I suppose now ... who took your oath, that is the one thing most of them have in common. They come from large families in small lordships. There is no place for them among the family hierarchy. Just as there is no place for me among mine."

Torbert nodded thoughtfully.

"For the most part, those are the ones who make the best guards," Torbert said.

"They are the ones who have had to work most of their lives, I would guess," Jorgarn said. "Or at least wanted to work. Those are the ones I focus my efforts on. The rest the Symingtons I generally ignore."

"So how do I keep the Lippits and the Renoits from falling in with the Symingtons and the Peths?" Torbert asked. It was rhetorical and he was surprised when Jorgarn answered.

"If it were me, I would no longer admit just anyone because he is a second son or a relative of a noble," Jorgarn answered. "If a family has a man go through training and he accepts a position in the Noble Guard, allow them to send another. I would focus on the families who provide worthwhile candidates and stop allowing the richer districts to send someone just to say they've sent someone."

Torbert nodded. He longed to tell Jorgarn that he might just have that ability in a few years but he refrained.

"Once your back is healed, we will present your idea to the King," Torbert said. "Now I order you to get treatment for your back."

Jorgarn nodded and turned to leave.

"Do you plan to kill Seni?" he asked. Jorgarn stopped and faced Torbert again.

"As with Master Lippit, you have decreed his punishment complete," Jorgarn said. "Sir Torbert, I will abide by your wishes in every matter. I hope you know that."

"I do know that," Torbert said. "And I do appreciate it. I firmly planned to kill him today."

Jorgarn chuckled despite his pain.

"And I fully planned to kill Lippit today," he said. "I guess converting them to the cause is probably better. But I think I would keep a close eye on them if I were you."

"Oh, I think the converts will keep an eye on them for me," Torbert said. "One more thing. The Emertland Guard Sergeant has requested I move Symington. The King agrees. Will that create a problem for you?"

"So what if it does, Sir Torbert?" Jorgarn asked. "Symington knows the score. So do I. If we can't co-exist I will demure if the King and my leader wish him here. If they wish him gone, I will send him away or I will kill him."

"His transfer will wait a few weeks," Torbert said. "I will post your announcement earlier. That will give you seniority. You will be classified as a trainer. That will make you his superior."

"Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said with what passed for a smirk. "No disrespect, but I was always his superior."

Torbert laughed and walked away shaking his head.

-------

The following day, Denae knocked and stepped into her father's study. She had known for weeks this was the path she was likely to take but the night before had confirmed it was the correct choice.

Denae and Rayna had noticed Jorgarn was moving stiffly when he arrived for his nightly session. They each had known something strange had happened during guard training but neither had known what. All guards had been confined to their quarters for dinner and none had been permitted outside the walls unless on Crown business. They had watched as several trainees had packed their belongings and had exited the compound. Yet no one had been available to reveal the reason behind the upheaval.

Jorgarn's temperament had been strained. He had been silent except when spoken to and he had seemed intent toward keeping all conversation focused upon the lessons at hand. It wasn't until Jorgarn had shifted in his seat and Rayna had let out a gasp that had Denae demanded an explanation.

The linen shirt Jorgarn wore had been soaked in blood where his wounds had seeped through the bandages.

"What in the name of the Creator happened to you?!" Denae had asked hotly.

"It is Noble Guard business, I'm afraid, Your Highness," Jorgarn had said. "It is a disciplinary matter."

"I don't believe you," Rayna had said quietly. "Tell me, what infraction did you commit that required the sequestering off all the guards?"

"I committed no infraction, Rayna," Jorgarn had admitted. "The punishment was for all the noble trainees. I accepted mine readily as did many of the others."

"And the ones who didn't were banished?" Rayna had asked.

Jorgarn had considered the question.

"Many sought to avoid punishment by resigning," he had finally answered. "Their resignations were held in abeyance until after the punishment was carried out. Then some were accepted and others asked to rescind theirs. That, too, was permitted on a case-by-case basis."

"Why are the others locked down?" Rayna had wondered. "Pernice sent a message that he would be unable to visit me today."

"Sir Torbert's orders," Jorgarn had stated. "That is all I can tell you."

"But you're here," Denae had said. "If you were punished why was that permitted? Aside from that, you obviously are in great discomfort."

"I gave you my word that I would be here, Your Highness," Jorgarn had said simply. "I was permitted because I am here on Crown business. If it were simply a social call, it would not have been allowed."

"Yes, stepmother was most distressed when Symington failed to appear at dinner," Denae hold told him with a smirk. "Now, off with that shirt. Let me attend to your wound."

"I am fine, Your Highness," Jorgarn had insisted.

"I said off with your tunic," Denae had said in a dangerous voice. "Now I can make it an official decree or I can send for my father and he can order it. It will be done and the more you delay it the more difficult I can be."

Her voice had sweetened.

"Do you really want that, Jorgarn?" Denae had continued.

Wordlessly he had lifted his tunic over his back. The Princess had stifled a cry when she saw its condition.

"Rayna, get the medic," she had said. "Wake her if need be. Bring her here immediately."

"There is no need for that, Rayna," Jorgarn had said. "Princess, I appreciate your compassion. But I have seen the medic and I will see him again when I leave here."

"Is everyone's back like this?" Rayna had asked. "Is that why you're all sequestered?"

"No," Jorgarn had answered. He had known she was worried about Pernice. "Pernice was not punished. He was not at fault. The Noble trainees were punished but mine is the worst. My punisher was a bit overzealous. Even the ones who received twice as many lashes are not in this shape."

"Who did this?" Denae had asked with venom in her voice.

"It doesn't matter, Your Highness," Jorgarn had said. "It has been dealt with to my satisfaction and to the satisfaction of Sir Torbert."

He had smiled at her.

"It might turn out to be the best thing that has happened to the Noble Guard in some time, Your Highness," he had continued. "I'm sure Sir Torbert will tell you about if you absolutely need to know. But it is not my place to discuss his decisions. I hope you understand."

Denae had watched as the medic gently changed the dressings on Jorgarn's back. She had understood completely. A glance at Rayna let the Princess know her friend had understood as well. But Denae doubted anyone would understand fully the decision she had just reached.

With a man like Jorgarn Elmwood beside her, no one would dare challenge her. The fact that he was strong and upstanding would make her reign easier for her and more beneficial for the country.

He would be the perfect choice to be her Knight.

But Denae wanted more from him than that.

-------

Denae sat across from her father and studied him. She knew the conversation would not be easy but she was determined.

The King was waiting for Denae to speak. He saw the signs that she had reached a conclusion about her future. However, he was not prepared for her initial statement.

"I want to discuss something with you," she said. "Actually, I suppose I want to inform you of something. I am considering deeding Tremaine to Jorgarn in its entirety. It will solve the problem of land ownership and allow his quick promotion."

The King's mouth dropped.

"I have solved that problem by deeding him Crown lands within Tremaine," he said. "This is an unnecessary and foolish step."

Denae sat forward on her chair.

"In a few weeks I can do it without your consent or without your knowledge," she said firmly. "I do it now for the sole purpose of asking for your support in this if this is the path I choose. But if it is my path, I am determined that it will be done."

"Daughter, if you do that the guards will lose him," the King said. "He can be Lord Tremaine or he can be your Knight Protector but he cannot be both."

Denae's gaze didn't waver.

"Father, I would like for you to tell me about Knight Consorts," she said. "I have done some reading and I understand the concept. But I would like to know fully how it differs from a Knight Protector."

The quill dropped from King Landor's fingers.

"It is an ancient title, daughter," the King said. "It has been 200 years or more since it was used. Changes in our traditions have made it obsolete."

"It has been 138 years since it was last awarded and 112 since the last Queen who offered the title has died," Denae said. "As I said, I understand the basics and I understand some of the differences. I would like to know how the titles differ."

The King tilted his head back.

"I will need Torbert for this," he said. "I'll send for him."

Denae nodded.

"While I wait, perhaps you can explain to me what is happening to my protector candidates," she said. She had spent most of the night stewing about Jorgarn's back and the more she thought of it, the angrier she became. "I will not abide their abuse any more than I will abide the abuse of my attendants."

The King noticed the fire in his daughter's eyes. She was correct in that the trainees in this class were ultimately her responsibility.

"I will allow Torbert to discuss that, as well," the King said. He suddenly felt very tired. He called for a messenger and Merg came rushing in.

"Good morning, Your Highness," Merg said brightly. He knew a message this early was going to the training complex.

"Not from where I sit, Merg," the King said. "From this seat, it does not appear to be a good morning at all. But it is always nice to see your face. Could you fetch Sir Torbert for me?"

"Of course, Your Highness," Merg said. He shifted from foot to foot. "Do I need to return with him?"

The boy's excitement seemed to ease the King's mind.

"No, Merg," he said. "You may spend the rest of your morning eating Jorgarn's food and learning his trade."

He smiled and shook his head as the boy clapped his hands and exited the room.

Denae looked at her father.

"Jorgarn feeds him and trains him?" Denae said. "I thought Merg was to be a house steward. Does he still take his meals here?"

"Yes, yes and yes," the King said. "Jorgarn seems to think Merg is too thin. He feeds him every time he sees him. We better hope the little scamp remains active or we'll have to widen the castle doors to let him in. Merg seems to enjoy spending time down there. Jorgarn has crafted a small practice sword for him. He put together an abbreviated training exercise for Merg. I hear Merg is doing very well, too. You might be looking at your future Sergeant of the Guard."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by Zoltan The Duck.



-------

Chapter 10



The events of the past few moments sorted themselves out in the King's mind as he waited for Torbert's arrival. When the picture solidified, he looked closely at his daughter. The expression on her face hadn't changed from the one of firm resolve she had entered with.

"What will you do if Jorgarn accepts the Lordship and abandons the Guards?" he asked. "It is a real possibility. You know what those lands are always used for. You could buck 500 years of tradition. This could lead to the downfall of our house. You do fully realize that?"

"I do, father," she said. "That is why I need information before I proceed. It is my plan to offer him the Lordship. I will offer to maintain them as Crown lands but I will not require it. I will also ask him to be my Protector. But I must know more about the procedure before I can move forward. Where is Torbert?"

"Here, My Princess," came a voice from the doorway.

"Well, I guess you heard then," she said. "Please, Torbert, sit."

Sir Torbert looked to his brother. The King's shrug told him it was Denae's show.

"I've only just arrived and I've heard nothing," Torbert said.

"Well, then let's proceed with something else," Denae said. "Why are my Knight candidates being beaten bloody? Why have a dozen trainees resigned in the past two days?"

"I planned to speak to you about his once things settled a bit, Niece," Torbert said. "I will make a full report when the time is right."

"Sir Torbert," Denae said. "You will make a full report at my request. I am responsible for this class. If I do not choose a Knight from this class, I am responsible for the classes until I do. I require your report now."

Torbert shifted a glance toward his brother who was motionless. Both men knew Denae was within her rights to question the training methods. She simply hadn't done it before, trusting that her uncle was handling things correctly.

"Very well, Your Highness," Torbert said. "I have failed this class completely. I have likely failed the last dozen classes completely. The Noble Guard is a disgrace. I would say that I am ashamed to be its Captain but the simple fact is that I am entirely at fault for its sorry shape. Your candidates were punished because one of them committed a major infraction. It was decided that in order for the members to look after themselves, each would be responsible for the actions of the others."

"Which explains the punishment but not why Jorgarn's back looks like someone took a filet knife to it, Uncle," Denae said in a conciliatory tone. She could see the last day had been difficult for Torbert as well.

"You know of Jorgarn's back?" Torbert asked. "May I ask how?"

"He bled through his shirt during our lessons last night," Denae stated. "I insisted he seek treatment at the castle before I would permit him to return to the barracks."

The King shot a questioning glance toward Torbert. He too was just learning of the severity of Jorgarn's injuries.

"He came here, last evening?" Torbert said. "What was he thinking?"

"He gave me his word," Denae replied. "I fully believe he would have crawled to wherever he needed to be if he gave his word to you, father or me. He did not mention it. I saw he was moving slowly and I knew punishment had been handed down to many yesterday. I still await word on why he looks that way. He told me the situation is handled. I would also like to know if you agree with that."

Torbert took deep breath.

"Jorgarn's back looks that way because I was too much of a coward to stand there and make sure it was done properly," he said sadly. "I walked away and allowed another guard to deliver the penalty because I could not bear to watch him being punished for something he did not do, nor would he ever do. The Guard who volunteered took the opportunity to express his displeasure at being displaced in the guard ranks. I, again, was remiss in my duties to you and to Jorgarn."

"You allowed Symington to inflict the beating?" Denae asked incredulously. "You are not stupid. Tell me what you hoped to accomplish by that?"

"Daughter," the King said soothingly.

"No, Your Highness," Torbert said angrily. "I am incompetent but I am not stupid. I did not even permit Symington to witness the punishments. He was assigned to duty completely away from the complex. But Jorgarn's arrival has the entire system in upheaval. Symington is the most evident but he is not the only person to realize the skills he possesses are inferior. In fact, I can count myself among that rank. After his torment yesterday, it fell upon him to comfort me, rather than the way it should be. He told me it wasn't my fault that the Guards have deteriorated. It is a product of the quality of man I am sent."

"He is right," Denae cut in quickly. "And I apologize for my tone, Uncle. I am angry and I jumped to the incorrect conclusion. Jorgarn defended your actions last evening. He said what happened to him might be the best thing that happened to the Guard in years. But I do hope you will offer me your forgiveness. My brain knows that you would never purposefully let him come to harm. But my heart got in the way."

Denae's last comment caught Torbert's attention quickly.

"The Princess is considering deeding Tremaine to Jorgarn," the King said. "But before she decides, she would like for you to explain the concept of the Knight Consort to her."

The pieces clicked together quicker for Torbert than they had for Landor.

"I do not believe it is possible for you to do that, Denae," he said quietly.

"I disagree with you, but I will hear you out," she replied with a smile. "But first, could you give me the background on Knight Consorts?"

"It is an obsolete notion," Torbert began. "I would wager it has been 15 decades or more since it was used."

"Close but I hope you weren't betting a kitchen stint," the King said. "It has been 112 years since it was last in effect and 138 since it was last offered. Is that correct, Denae?"

Denae couldn't help but smile.

"Yes, Father," she said.

"Well, still," Torbert sputtered. "Up until 300 years ago or so, Emertland was constantly at war. The Noble Guard was not what you see. Each Lordship was expected to raise and lead his own army. The Noble Guard was a training academy. Many lords and heirs took part in the training. It was different than today. Today is it is filled with the coddled children of spoiled aristocrats. They send one child here in order that we will feed them and provide for them so they won't have to. I have come to realize it is not working. But, we have a plan we will discuss with you later in the week."

Denae allowed the conversation to be briefly sidetracked so she could have her suspicion confirmed.

"We?" she asked.

Torbert nodded and smiled.

"It is actually your future Knight's plan," he said. "So I will allow Jorgarn to present it."

Denae didn't correct Torbert but motioned for him to continue.

"The role of Knight Protector has been around for centuries," he said. "It was always considered, until recently perhaps, to be the second most vaunted position in Emertland – behind only the ruling monarch. Many lords have given up their holdings to accept the honor. Some of them had no heir and allowed family properties to be divided to take the title of Knight Protector. As with many things, the luster has waned during my watch. Now it is seen as a springboard into a powerful position for those without much hope for power – the second sons of nobility."

"And the Knight Consort?" Denae prodded.

Torbert grimaced but nodded.

"It was uncommon but not unheard of for the Heiress to the Crown to develop a romantic relationship with her Protector," Torbert said. He considered glossing over part of the history but decided Denae should hear it all. "In fact, it is almost a foregone conclusion that you will have a sexual liaison with your Protector. You are around each other too much and, ideally, so closely in sync with the other, it is almost unavoidable."

Denae did her best to stop a blush from rising and succeeded for the most part.

"It is rumored but not confirmed that a few of our former rulers were the sons or daughters of the Protector rather than the King," Torbert added. "In fact, it is almost universally accepted that our great-great-grandmother was the daughter of such a union. In the cases where the Queen or the Heiress desired more than a professional and sexual relationship with her Knight, they were betrothed. He became Knight Consort instead of Knight Protector. Once the couple wed, his title changed again. Some took the title of Lord Protector; others accepted the title of Prince Knight. I would have to read up on this before I can give you the exact numbers of who was called what."

Denae nodded. She knew and understood most of this.

"But what is the difference between the two?" she asked. "Is there something that one does and the other does not? You already say I'll have sex with him. I might even raise children with him. What is the crux of the differences?"

Torbert shrugged.

"The Knight Protector must be a son of nobility, a member in good standing with the Noble Guard and acceptable to the Monarch," Torbert said. "The Knight Consort must be a Lord or its equivalent – because he must be of that rank for you to marry him – a member in good standing with the Noble Guard and acceptable to the Queen – or King if he prefers that. The only real difference outside of rank is that the Knight Protector sleeps in the room beside you and the Knight Consort sleeps in the bed with you."

Denae closed her eyes for a brief moment.

"If you are seriously considering it, I strongly advise you to look deeper into it," Torbert warned. "It has happened only a handful of times and many of them were not successful."

"It has happened seven times," Denae said. "Five appear to be eminently successful. Two I have been able to learn very little about."

"Well, I don't recall their timeframes but one ended with the Queen having her Knight assassinated," Torbert said. "Please remember, you cannot replace your Knight. He serves until his death or yours. You cannot just decide you don't like him anymore and toss him aside. Not the most recent but the one before that, it ended badly. The Queen fell in love with someone else and divorced her husband. But he was still her Knight. Our records indicate that it was a tenuous existence filled with much strife. Very little was accomplished and her rule was considered a failure. She presided over the only war Emertland has ever lost."

Denae took the information thoughtfully and considered what she would say next.

"Father, uncle, from the moment Jorgarn sat beside me at dinner, I could not picture giving myself to anyone else," Denae said. "As soon as father told me that I couldn't name him my Knight, I began to look for ways to accomplish that fact. It is now accomplished. I will offer Knighthood to Jorgarn but I plan to wait to announce it until just before my first extended trip from the castle. I hope that trip is to be to Jorgarn's homeland and the birthplace of my mother, but if it is necessary for me to visit other places first, I will. As time progresses, I might decide to make the announcement earlier.

"I also am considering – considering, mind you – offering him the Crown lands of Tremaine. I will inform him that it is not necessary for him to govern the lands but he may if he wishes. It is my hope that he will accept the title and leave them in the hands of the Crown steward. It is my wish that he accepts the title and the title of Knight Protector. If – and it is 'if' at this point – I would like for him to become my husband in the future, he would be eligible. I would not need to displace a Lord as has been done in the past to the Queen's detriment. We are not at war and it is unlikely we will be in the near future. There is no need to secure an alliance with a foreign marriage. Frankly, I would prefer my marriage be like that of Sir Torbert and Batrix and my father and my mother than that of my father and my stepmother. But unless something drastically changes, there is no person I would consider for my Knight other than Jorgarn – and no person I would prefer as my husband."

The two men in the room exchanged glances. Denae had made several valid points. There were few if any flaws in her argument. The only sticking point would be Jorgarn. Neither knew for certain if he would accept the Lordship or even the role as Knight Protector.

-------

Cruit Symington's happiness was tempered by the knowledge that he was forced to move quickly. His goal of being Knight Protector for the Crown was evaporating. His duties to the Emertland Guard had forced him to miss several opportunities to impress the King and the Princess. Then Sir Torbert's decision to suspend all personal movement save for official activities had made him miss one of the few chances he had left.

He had done his best to get information on Jorgarn Elmwood but the other guards feared Jorgarn more than they feared Symington. It was not a situation the young man was used to and not one he planned to grow accustomed to.

Even Fieth and Renoit had turned on him, joining sides with the foreigner. A foreigner from of all places, Longview.

But finally good news had arrived. He had earned his full commission in the Noble Guard. He was first in his class to make the grade and he would be first in line for the Knighthood. His goal was to place a Symington heir on the throne within a decade.

Symington walked casually to the bulletin board so he could be sure all the trainees were made to look at his promotion. Right there, dated for that day, Cruit Symington's name along with his rank – Guardsman Third Class.

His blood ran cold when he saw the notice beside his: dated the previous week, Jorgarn Elmwood, Trainer, Guardsman First Class.

"Hellfire," he muttered. Not only had Jorgarn's promotion come first but Symington would be forced to follow his orders or face the consequences.

Symington stomped back to his barracks. Everyone who saw him greeted him not with a congratulatory salutation but with a smirk. His hatred of Elmwood was well known. Everyone had seen that Sir Torbert and the King had stuck it to a Symington again.

First, King Landor twice stole the woman that Cruit's father planned to marry. Now Sir Torbert was doing his best to kill any dream the Symingtons had of redemption. But the final stroke came when Cruit arrived at his bunk.

There was a message from the castle. The Queen had cancelled any further dining engagements. She had written that she no longer viewed him as the best candidate for the role of Knight Protector.

But it was her final salvo that brought blood to Symington' face. The Queen wrote that she had wasted her time and angered her family for no reason because Symington had done absolutely nothing to project himself as anything more than a self-serving, arrogant nobleman.

-------

Denae dreaded the prospect of another dinner with Cruit Symington. She was certain that since he had missed the last two, he would be in full spirits to describe his latest daring-do. So she was somewhat startled when Queen Lorida sat down without announcing the presence of a guest.

"Where is your lapdog tonight?" Denae asked before she could stop herself. Then she steeled herself for the awaited explosion.

Instead the Queen studied her fork.

"If you mean Master Symington, he will be joining us no longer," the Queen said with no hint of anger. "I apologize for subjecting you and your father to his presence as long as I did."

Both the King and his daughter sat back in their chairs.

"Until recently, I viewed Master Symington as the best candidate to serve as your Protector," the Queen continued. "But I have watched the happenings at the complex for the last weeks. What is going on there is impressive. Symington had the same opportunity to exact change. He was feared, not only for his martial prowess but for his family connections. Instead he worked solely for his own benefit. I expected no less from him because I believed that any person in his position would seek to do the same.

"I was wrong about that, too. I will interfere in your business no further. But I do have a recommendation. Jorgarn Elmwood has distinguished himself not only as a Guard but as a leader. I am unsure of what needs to be done to ensure he is a viable candidate. I know one must own property in Emertland. I am prepared to use my own funds to purchase him land if it becomes necessary. I also would like to invite Lady Eslada to visit prior to Denae's ascension. She should see the success of her protégé and I believe each of you would like to visit with her. If neither of you object I have a letter that I have written to Lady Eslada. If you approve, I will send it out via ship in the morning."

Several thoughts raced through Denae's mind, most of them unkind. She wondered if the Queen was changing tactics, insisting Jorgarn was the best candidate because she thought Denae would stonewall as the Princess had done with Symington. Then she wondered if the Queen had somehow learned something damaging to Jorgarn's candidacy. She was sure that Sir Torbert and the King had made certain he was eligible. There were few requirements, really.

The last thought gave Denae the most problems: Perhaps she had misjudged Lorida. Perhaps the Queen really did have the best interests of the Crown at heart. Symington had been the best candidate from the current class when the Queen brought him to visit. The Queen was very unlikely to have much information from the complex unless it came secondhand from the letters she received daily from the Ladies of the Realm.

"I would very much like to meet Lady Eslada, stepmother," Denae said in a grateful tone. "Thank you very much for thinking of it. You always do protocol so much better than I do. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness."

"You're welcome, Darling," Lorida said, using a term of endearment for a rare time. "I am very sorry I have been so single-minded and high-handed about my actions. I still picture you as a 10-year-old with flour on your face. Your actions in the last few years should have told me that you have grown and matured. You are capable of making this decision. Far more capable than I am of making it for you."

She passed the letter over for her stepdaughter's perusal. It was not the standard boilerplate invitation to the Ascension Ceremony that others had received. It was a personalized letter that told Eslada how much the King and the Princess would enjoy seeing her again and how much the Queen would enjoy meeting her. Denae read a portion aloud.

"As you might imagine, you and your exploits as a maiden have been the topic of many humorous stories around our table the past weeks," the letter read. "I am anxious to meet the gracious lady who grew from such an energetic child. Your stepson's description of you gives me great hope for the Princess' future."

"That part was meant to be funny," the Queen put in. "I mean, not funny necessarily but less stiff. I'll remove it if it offends you."

Denae and the King laughed when it was read and laughed again at the Queen's reaction.

"It is funny, Dear," the King said. "And it is true. I have thought the same thing any number of times. I have no problem with this invitation. I hope she will be allowed to attend."

The Queen nodded.

"Judging from what Master Jorgarn has said, I wondered if they would read her mail before it got to her," she admitted. "So I am having this letter delivered to her privately. If it can't be handed directly to her, it will be returned to me."

She passed another letter across which was longer but more to the point. Denae also read it aloud.

"My dearest Eslada," the Queen had written. "I hope you do not take offense at my lack of formality. Although I have yet to meet you, what I said in our unofficial invitation for a visit was true. I feel as though I know you. I feel that way because for the last seven years I have watched a young woman grow up who seems to resemble you greatly in your spirit.

"Oh, certainly, my stepdaughter and I have had our battles. It took her a while to accept I wasn't leaving and it took me a while to realize that although she was headstrong she was also intelligent. I have made my share of mistakes and I know our relationship would be stronger if I had been smarter about my actions. But we live and learn.

"Your stepson raves about you. He views you as his sister and I don't think for a moment he questions that you have always had his best interests at heart. He is doing well – actually, he is doing remarkably well. His arrival has given new life not only to his post but also to the castle. The other reason for your visit is so you can see how he has grown. I believe that you will be as proud of him as he is of you.

"He has told my husband that we must go outside normal protocol in this situation. Under normal circumstances, we would invite your incoming head of state, as well. Alas, I fear that the first-born son will never be welcomed on our shores. It has been mentioned that the primary offspring does not leave his homeland and the reasons have been made quite clear. I hope that does not pose problems for you. It is why I worded the invitation to you as a member of the family and not as the wife of a head of state.

"Your stepson has told us of his vow for your safety. Please know that all of Emertland would join him should that task become necessary. The ship that brought this dispatch will stay in port for a day or so. I hope that you can prepare an answer in that time. Otherwise, I will await your reply.

"Your Aunt and, it is hoped, your future friend, Lor."

Both the King and his daughter looked down the table at the Queen.

"I didn't want to use any words that could be recognized," the Queen said. "We use the same letters. I figured our names or titles might be overseen. Additionally, I figured anyone in passing would recognize Jorgarn's name even if they don't understand Emertland. Is it too much?"

"I was wondering why you've changed your mind so suddenly?" the Princess asked, voicing the question in the King's head as well. "I believe the letters are fine. But you seem effusive in your praise of someone you have not taken the time to know."

The Queen nodded guiltily.

"When Jorgarn arrived, I had convinced myself that Emertland would be best served by having Symington as your Knight," the Queen admitted. "I also confess that I was unhappy when Jorgarn showed up at our table in what I assumed were peasant's clothes. I was disappointed that he didn't view your invitation seriously enough to dress for the occasion. It was only later that I was able to do a little research. I found that his dress was formal for his land. In fact, he was overdressed for dining with us. He was dressed as he would be expected for, let's say, the ascension of Princess Denae to Heiress to the Crown.

"Then there was the letter he sent me the next day. He thanked me for allowing him to dine with us and he apologized to me. I should have been the one to apologize to him. I could see that you both and Torbert had taken a liking to the boy. But just because you liked him and he was personable didn't make him the best to be a Knight."

She glanced at Denae and smiled.

"I am obvious but so you are," she said as her smiled widened. "I knew you found something about Symington to be disagreeable. It took me some time to agree with you about that. I also knew you were looking for someone – anyone – you could name in his stead. You were prepared to name Jorgarn your Knight after only that brief meeting. He spoke so horribly about his father and his brother, I thought it was jealousy. I thought he would be jealous of you, too. Then there was the whole Longview societal problem. I know enough about Longview to know that women are not highly regarded there. Although he showed no signs of it during our meetings, I had to wonder if he viewed women as property, too. He doesn't, by the way, but I'm sure both of you know that. I should have been more polite to him and addressed these concerns in private. But, truly, I only wanted what was best for your future, Denae, and the future of Emertland."

"I hope you understand that I still haven't come to decide what those will be, Stepmother," Denae said. "I have an idea but many things can happen. No final decision will be made for two more weeks. I am trying to keep an open mind. I am looking for flaws in Jorgarn and, well, I have him looking for strengths in others."

The Queen nodded.

"If I may offer you some advice?" she asked. Denae nodded because the Queen rarely asked permission.

"Do not blindside him," she offered. "I believe that the only person who is unaware of your intentions is Jorgarn. It amazes me, really. I know many people who interact with the trainees and, well, like you, Dear, I often overhear them speak. The only people who speak ill of Jorgarn are those who can no longer get away with behaving like buffoons. Torbert has those trainees looking sharper than any I have seen since my arrival. The full-status Guards are doing better, too. They look like a military unit again. They are no longer the drunkards and laggards I once viewed them to be. I do not think it is a coincidence that Jorgarn's arrival happened at the same time as the revival of our Guard. Like Torbert has in the role of Knight Protector, Jorgarn has set the bar high for trainees. I was surprised that he hadn't been promoted but I heard that the hold is because of the property requirement. I have written to Lady Renoit – whose son also is highly complementary of Jorgarn – about the prospect of purchasing land. She doesn't know why I want it but she would be amendable either way. But that would allow Jorgarn to take his rightful place with the Guard and as your Knight."

She covered her mouth quickly.

"I'm sorry," she said. "I overstep again. But it will allow him to become a Guard at any rate."

The King glanced at his daughter who nodded slightly.

"He was promoted earlier in the month," the King announced. "For now, I have deeded him some Crown property. He insisted upon making a down payment. Lord Longview gave him only coin that wouldn't work here so Torbert has been trading it with sailors headed across. He made a substantial payment and he brought me a witnessed note to have the remainder deducted from his wages until the debt is satisfied."

The Queen was smiling and shaking his head.

"I hope you set the price low," she said.

"He asked his cohorts what the price of land in the region was worth," the King said in disgust. "He set the price at two Konecs higher per quadrant than the going rate and about 10 higher than I would have."

He turned toward his daughter.

"I must agree with Lorida about something," he said with a wry grin toward his wife. "You should prepare Jorgarn for the news. I do not want him to refuse the offer because he thinks you deserve someone better. I know you said you are keeping your mind open. But really, is that true?"

"No," Denae admitted. "I will offer the Knighthood to Jorgarn at my Ascension, not later as I planned. Ideally, it will be done the way you and Uncle Torbert did it. You come into it together, one right after the other. I will speak to him later this week."

"I'm worried that he might say no," the King admitted. "My sources tell me he is grooming Chicote Renoit to be your Knight. He has been working with him diligently with his sword handling."

Denae nodded. She had heard much the same thing about Elobert Fieth.

"Do you think Torbert might be a little more forthcoming about my wishes?" Denae asked. "We are not scheduled to meet until three days hence. Otherwise, I will have to summon him to the castle."

"We need to speak to him and Torbert about their plans for the Guard anyway," the King said. "Perhaps you can ask Torbert to make arrangements for the four of us to meet."

-------

It turned out that the group would meet much earlier than any had assumed. Shortly after the next daybreak, Fieth raced back into the lodgings carrying a bundle of letters. The outgoing and incoming mail to the Emertland capital often was carried by ship even from in-country destinations. Jorgarn had set up a rotating schedule for the trainees to retrieve and deliver letters from the port.

Fieth dropped the packet of letters on the table in front of Jorgarn. The young man was clearly out of breath.

"Sir," Fieth said. "This packet arrived via ship from Longview today. I thought you should see them."

Fieth's formality caught Jorgarn off guard. Regardless of his rank, Jorgarn treated the men as comrades unless they were on the field. He glanced at the packets.

He recognized three letters from Eslada on top. They were addressed to him.

"Thank you, Master Fieth," Jorgarn said. "But these are simply letters from my stepmother. Most likely answering the ones I sent to her on the last ship."

"Yes, Sir," Fieth said as he pushed the top three letters off. "These, Sir, are not. I believe they bear the Lord's seal."

Jorgarn put down his spoon and looked at the letters. The first was addressed to High King Landor, Ruler of Emertland. It did indeed bear the wax seal of Lord Longview.

It puzzled Jorgarn but not overly. He doubted his father would write to see how Jorgarn was doing. And if he did, he was certain he would have Eslada do it. The handwriting did not belong to his stepmother. It was strange but not entirely so. There were perhaps a dozen people or more in Longview who understood the Emerti language.

It was the second that brought Jorgarn up short. It was written in the same hand and it was address to Cruit Symington.

"Master Fieth, would you mind locating Sir Torbert?" Jorgarn asked. "I believe he should be made aware of this. Do you recall Symington receiving official letters from Longview in the past?"

Renoit cut in.

"You can bet he would have displayed them proudly," he said. "And likely misrepresented their content. Unless it has been in the past few weeks, I can safely say he not received a missive from this source previously."

Fieth stepped quickly from the room and returned a minute later with Sir Torbert. Jorgarn wordlessly handed him all five letters in the packet.

"The first three were written by Lady Eslada," Jorgarn stated. "I have several other letters from her if you wish to confirm that."

Torbert frowned but waved his hand dismissively.

"The others were not written by Lord Longview," Jorgarn continued. "He does not know the language here. I can think of few in Longview who do, outside of Eslada. And outside of Eslada, I can think of none that Lord Longview would use."

"Master Elmwood, you're with me," Sir Torbert said. "Delegate your duties for this morning. I will present us at the castle for an urgent meeting with the King. Like you, I cannot imagine why a head of state with no standing army would write a letter to a Noble Guard. You are positive it is your father's seal?"

Jorgarn nodded but Torbert frowned again.

"We do not have cause to break the wax," he said. "If there is a legitimate reason for the letter, it would create unnecessary hardship between the families."

"Perhaps the King's letter will cast more light upon things," Fieth offered.

"We shall see shortly, Master Fieth," Torbert said. "Well thought."

Jorgarn directed his two lieutenants – Fieth and Renoit – to handle the training until his return. Both of the young men had made great strides in the past weeks. Each had held true on his vow to Sir Torbert – as had the others who made the impromptu oath – to revive the image of the Noble Guard.

"What do you think this is about?" Torbert asked as he and Jorgarn walked to the castle.

"I don't know," Jorgarn said as he scanned Eslada's letters for a clue. There was no mention of anything official emanating from Longview. Her letters were recently written, so she was in residence at the manor, the only estate close to a port.

"She says nothing about it," Jorgarn said when he closed the last letter from his stepmother. "Just the usual. Well, something unusual, too. I gather she wrote to you recently?"

Torbert nodded but his grave look did not wane.

"I needed more explanation about your background and your duties as Squire Protector," he said. "I believe the King wrote to her also. It could have created problems with your duties to Emertland. But she came clean. She said she created the title for you. It is nothing official. She told us that her only claim to you was your vow for her safe return to Emertland. Those came a couple of weeks ago but we had already decided the issue was closed."

"But my promise is not," Jorgarn quickly added.

"No, your promise is valid and we will support that effort should it come to be," Torbert said. "Let's see how quickly the King can see us."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by Zoltan The Duck.



-------

Chapter 11



Denae and the Queen were discussing the festivities around the Princess' ascension when the Princess suddenly stood.

"He's here," she said as she walked toward the door.

"Who?" Lorida asked as she exchanged a glance with Rayna, who was also in attendance.

"Jorgarn," Denae said. "It's strange. I know he is close and, if I had to guess, he is irritated."

The Queen looked at her stepdaughter closely.

"Then let's find him and see what causes his irritation, Dear," the Queen said. There was nothing in Denae's manner that led her to assume the Princess was anything but sincere. "Can you sense his presence often?"

"Sometimes," she said with a blush. "Earlier in the week, he had night duty at the palace. I thought he was close by but I didn't know how that could be. Most of the times, I just thought it was anticipation at seeing him again."

She giggled as they walked down the hallway.

"He was always nervous about being here so I always felt his nerves," she said. "I assumed they were my nerves. The other night, I woke up when he came on duty. I had no idea he was here but suddenly I was awake and I was alert. I felt the need to be constantly on watch, like someone might come to steal something I valued. I didn't find out Jorgarn was here – on protection duty – until the next afternoon. This is the first time it's happened since."

The Queen had heard Landor mention that he always had a sense of where Torbert was. She had assumed it was just because they were so close but maybe it was more. She would have to ask Torbert if the same was true for him. Maybe it was something between a monarch and his knight. It bore looking at.

The trio turned into the hallway housing the King's chamber and saw Jorgarn standing there reading a letter. He had a look of consternation on his face but Denae knew it wasn't because of something in the letter. A small smile graced his lips periodically. The letter wasn't the source of his discomfort. She hoped she wasn't the source. Only Rayna's firm grasp on Denae's arm stopped the Princess from racing ahead.

Jorgarn caught movement down the hallway out his peripheral vision and his hand automatically went for his sword. Sadly, his sword was still hanging on the hook beside his chamber. One generally did not go armed to a meeting with the King.

When he saw who was approaching, he felt foolish.

"It's gratifying to see you are always on guard for the King's protection," the Queen said. Jorgarn couldn't tell if she was mocking him or sincere.

He bowed deeply to the royals and less deeply to Rayna. He believed she deserved it as much as anyone.

"Your Majesty," Jorgarn said as he arose. He was surprised to see the Queen had extended her hand to him. He kissed the top of it gently. He repeated the process with the Princess and would have offered the same courtesy to Rayna if Denae hadn't spoken.

"What's wrong, Jorgarn?" she asked.

The question caught him off guard.

"Uh, Your Highness, I'm not certain anything is wrong," he said.

"But you think something is," she insisted. "What is it?"

"Perhaps it is something he should discuss with your father, Dear," the Queen said softly. "Is that a correspondence from Eslada?"

Jorgarn looked at his hands.

"Yes, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "They arrived this morning. I was scanning them for something of interest."

The Queen nodded.

"Please, when we are among the family, call me Lorida or Queen Lorida if you must," she said sweetly. "I understand you have a difficult time with shortening our names. I should tell you, I wrote to Eslada today and we have invited her to join us for Princess Denae's ascension. I wish I could have found time to discuss it with you but Sir Torbert has kept you quite busy as of late. Do you believe your father will allow her to visit? I'm sorry, I keep forgetting your tradition. Do you think Lord Longview will allow it?"

"It's quite alright, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "I have decided it is not worth remembering either. I understand who is being spoken about. I can see no reason why he would not unless there is something in the letter from him to His Majesty, the King."

"He wrote to my father?" Denae asked. "That seems odd. Maybe your brother is dead and he wants you home. Oh, I hope not. I mean, I don't mind if your brother is dead. From what you've told me, he is beastly. But I hope you aren't recalled."

"He has no power to recall me, Your Highness," Jorgarn said. He was flustered by Denae's emotional outburst. "I could return if I chose. But I would not. Unless ordered by the King or Sir Torbert – or of course, you when you assume the throne – the only time I will return to Longview is to escort Lady Eslada back to Emertland."

No one could mistake the Princess' expression for anything other than what it was – happiness. Jorgarn's surprise was complete when the Queen put her hand gently upon his arm.

"It is gratifying to hear that you have found a home here, Jorgarn," she said. "I am pleased to know that you are enjoying your life. I'm sure Eslada is pleased, too. I told her how well you've done and how well you have fit in with not only the Guards but with her family. I hope you don't mind."

"Uh, no, of course not, Your Majesty," Jorgarn stammered. "I am pleased that you would do that. I am sure Lady Eslada will appreciate your consideration."

The Queen smiled at Denae.

"You're right, Dear," she said. "He really has trouble dropping his formal nature around the castle. You will need to work on that. Perhaps you can have dear Rayna give him lessons."

The Princess smiled at her stepmother and Sir Torbert opened the door to the King's study.

"Oh, well, that's convenient," he said. "I don't have to look for you. Could you join us in the study? Oh, hello, Rayna. I'm sorry, but you were not included in the King's instructions. Although I'm sure Denae will give you a full recounting later. So you might as well join us."

Rayna started to speak but the Princess took her friend's arm.

"If it affects me, it affects you," she said. "You are to be my lead attendant in a few weeks."

Jorgarn was unsure if he was included in the gathering so he stayed behind while the ladies entered.

"You, too," Torbert said. "You might be the only one who can make sense of this."

-------

"Efficient, Torbert," the King said with a smile. "I expected it to take you a few minutes to round them up."

He handed the letter from Lord Longview across the desk to Jorgarn.

"What do you make of this?" he asked.

Jorgarn read the letter twice before answering.

"I've never heard of such a thing, Your Majesty," he said. "Formal functions are few in Longview. I have never had the occasion to see one. Also, I would have thought Lady Eslada would have mentioned something like this in her latest letter. It was written just day before yesterday."

He glanced at the letter again.

"The phrasing is ... awkward," he continued. "I can attest that this is not written in my father's hand. As I said, I would not expect it to be because he doesn't know your language. But something of this magnitude would have to be run past Lady Eslada. She would be the one making the arrangements and overseeing the staff. She would have been the most likely candidate to write a letter inviting the Princess to a state dinner in her honor."

"So you find problems with it?" Torbert said.

"I find many problems with it, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. "The language is not court language of Longview. It almost seems as though the person who dictated the letter wanted to seem more knowledgeable than he – or she – is. My father would have Lady Eslada compose almost every official letter from his desk. The biggest problem is that it is not my father's signature. It is not even close and, well, it is misspelled."

Denae, who had grasped the Longview language well, held out her hand for the letter.

"His name is Wenta, correct?" Denae asked.

"It is the common pronunciation," Jorgarn said. "But his name is spelled with an obsolete character, UU. He is always careful to use that because he believes it sets him apart. The letter combination has been used rarely in the past 200 years."

"But we wouldn't know that," Torbert said. "Similarly, we would have no idea that Lord Longview doesn't have a steward fluent in Emerti who wrote this for him. Jorgarn has confirmed it is his father's seal."

"What troubles me most, Sire," Jorgarn said, "is not the letter itself. There can be numerous explanations for any question that arises. The biggest question is why Cruit Symington received one from the same person on the same paper with the same seal and on the same day."

"Do you have the other letter?" the Queen asked.

The King nodded.

"Open it then," she insisted.

"And if it is a simple question about the goat trade?" the King asked.

"If it is a question about the goat trade, I'll ... I'll work seven days in the kitchen and eat what I prepare," she said.

Despite the tenseness of the situation, everyone laughed aloud – except for Rayna and Jorgarn who each struggled to keep their faces set.

Denae slapped Rayna and Jorgarn on the arms.

"You could have laughed at that," she said. "It was meant to be humorous."

"We still can't open this letter without a reason," the King said. "Every citizen is entitled to privacy."

Denae looked at Jorgarn. She was certain she could tell what he was thinking but she knew he wouldn't say it.

"Deliver it to Symington," Denae said. "Allow him to open it and read it. Then let Jorgarn take it away from him."

She smirked at the look on Jorgarn's face. Not for the first time, he was certain the Princess could read his thoughts. She leaned closer to him.

"I can, sometimes," she whispered.

"It would work but I have a better way," Torbert said. "I believe it is time for an inspection of the barracks. I will wager working alongside the Queen that Symington will not read this missive in public. He will take it to his room. We will have Fieth deliver it, give him a minute or two and then the senior Guardsmen will declare an inspection. He will be unable to hide it. And, like it or not, King Landor, communication from a sovereign power is not privileged. We could easily justify opening it right here and reading its content. Young Symington would have the option of living with it or crying to his father. His father could like it or lump it. He should be used to that feeling by now."

"I like my idea better," Denae said. "Just because I think I like the idea of Jorgarn taking Symington's sword from him and shoving it ... down his throat."

She blushed at what she almost said.

"He might get the chance at that, niece," Torbert said. "A Guardsman First Class is part of my senior staff. He will be conducting the inspections."

-------

Symington had been warned by his older brother, Comar, the heir to the Lordship, to expect a letter from Longview. Symington knew, broadly, what the plan was. He had tried to talk his brother out of it but the older man had told him it would work – so long as Cruit played his part.

There was little else for Symington to do. His dream of landing the Knighthood was gone. Even if no one else knew, he knew it. He would do what little he could to help his family regain its prestige.

The plan was simple.

Emertland had been at peace for so long, it had no standing army. It could raise one but it would probably take a year. It would take much longer if the Symington district refused to send soldiers – which it would.

If the Heiress were to marry a foreign noble she would be forced to abdicate the throne if she lived outside of Emertland. Factor in the future Lord Symington gaining a bride from the sitting royal family and Cruit's eventual rise to a prominent lordship and everyone involved felt the gain was worth the risk.

Pietro Longview had the most difficult task. He had to convince the Princess to come to Longview. He had assured Comar that Jorgarn's skill was no match for the men he employed. Certainly one or two of his men might die but the rest would soon overwhelm him.

Comar's original plan called for Cruit to be the Knight Protector. With that by the wayside, Cruit's job was to gain a spot on the protection detail. If all else failed, he would be in a position to attack the Knight Protector from behind.

In one fell swoop the pieces would be in place for Pietro to marry Denae; Comar to claim Eslada and the kingship upon Landor's subsequent death; and Cruit to be Lord Symington.

Symington's hands shook as he sat in his room and took his small penknife to the wax seal on the envelope. He was ready to act in any manner necessary to get back at Landor and the Dolorans – not to mention that bastard from Longview.

Still, Symington almost wet his trousers when his door slammed open and he saw Sir Torbert and Jorgarn Elmwood standing there with their swords drawn.

-------

"Your brother is an idiot," Torbert said – not for the first time – as he read the letter again.

Not for the first time, Jorgarn nodded.

"Does he not know this would be an act of war?" Denae said. "Does he truly believe I would marry him willingly? Does he truly believe that Torbert and Jorgarn would not kill him for this?"

Jorgarn was at a loss. He had never known what Pietro was thinking. He wasn't even positive their minds worked in the same way.

Only King Landor asked a sensible question.

"Do you think your father knows?" he asked Jorgarn.

"No," the young Guardsman replied easily. He was certain that his father would play no part in a scheme such as this. "If he knew, he would have stopped it – even to the point of having Pietro executed. Keep in mind, he would have to die for this plan to succeed. If Pietro didn't kill him, the Emperor would. Also, if he knew, Eslada would know. She understands that the house workers are people. She is clever enough to know that they see everything and hear everything. They also like her. But that is not the main reason I say Lord Longview is not part of this plot: Even he is not this stupid."

There were head nods around the table.

"I want this kept quiet," Landor said. "I want the Symingtons here, in this castle, when I tell them, when I show them what they have wrought."

In Cruit Symington's chamber, Torbert had found half a dozen letters spelling out the plot in great detail. Torbert had taken great pleasure in showing Cruit the words that ended each letter: "Be sure to burn this."

It was a fluid plan. When Symington appeared to be the next Knight, he was going to hand Denae over to Pietro in exchange for Eslada. It got more complicated when Jorgarn arrived on the scene. Everyone but Pietro had expressed reservation. Pietro wanted the chance to have a dozen or so of his friends drag Jorgarn in front of him for sentencing.

"Pietro doesn't seem to like you much," the Queen said. She had been noticeably upset that she had almost unwittingly aided the abduction of her stepdaughter. At least she had until Torbert, Jorgarn and finally Denae told her that they had considered Symington the best choice until very recently.

"I still believed him to the most complete choice until the letter arrived," Jorgarn admitted.

After a pointed look from her father and uncle, Denae asked Jorgarn to join her in the courtyard.

"I would like for you to consider accepting the position as my Knight," Denae said without preamble.

Jorgarn was trying to formulate his reply when Denae took his hand.

"Stop," she said. "There are no arguments I'll listen to as to why it should be someone else. If you do not want to do it, I will accept your answer of no. But I will not let you stand there and extol the virtues of anyone else."

Denae pulled Jorgarn down to sit beside her.

"You have wondered if I can read your mind," she said. "Well, the truth is, I can. At least sometimes. Father said it will grow stronger the longer we are around the other. If you concentrate, you will be able to read my thoughts – or at least my emotions. I knew you were in the castle today. I knew you were there earlier in the week. I knew you were upset today and I knew you were extremely vigilant the other night. Do you know that this means?"

Jorgarn lowered his head. To him it meant he might never have a private moment again in his life. To his surprise, Denae burst out laughing.

"Torbert will teach us how to shield ourselves," she said. "I really don't want you in my head while I'm on the throne."

Jorgarn shrugged.

"Not the Royal Throne, you dimwit," Denae said. An image of the royal toilet popped into Jorgarn's head. He was unaware that it was known as the throne and he wondered if perhaps Denae was sending an image to him.

"Did you do that?" he asked. "I mean put that image in my head?"

Denae shook her head.

"I put that image in my head," she said with a smile. "This means that you are meant to be my Knight. Father said that is what was missing in the others. He and Torbert had the ability as children. He said if you and I had known each other as children, we would too."

Jorgarn could feel Denae's excitement.

"Father suspected when you picked up on my disappointment at dinner that first night," she continued. "You know, when I called you 'numb nuts' and 'peter breath.'"

She giggled.

"I picked those up when you thought the words just now," she said. "It's why I've had such an easy time learning to speak and write Longview. We were sharing information by being in proximity to each other. Or at least I was taking information from you. I guess I wasn't sharing much. Who told you what the words meant in Emertland?"

The faces of Fieth and Renoit popped into Denae's head.

"This is so great!" she said.

"This is not so great," Jorgarn persisted. "What if decide I don't want to be your Knight? Will it go away?"

Denae's mouth dropped and a wave of sadness washed over her.

"I'm not saying that I don't or I won't," Jorgarn said quickly. "It's just ... well, I think a lot of things you don't need to know. What will I do when my behind itches? What happens when you get married? I mean, for the most part, I'm OK with having you know what I think. But I'm sure there are going to be times when it embarrasses one of us or both of us."

Denae nodded. Some of her recent thoughts had been embarrassing to her. She could only imagine how Jorgarn might view them. She also knew that she would never be able to explain some of the things she had been considering.

"Right now, we have pressing business on two fronts," Denae said. "The Knighthood is, as you might guess, secondary. We can discuss that once you have attended to the first while the rest of us tidy up things here."

Jorgarn nodded silently.

Ensuring Lady Eslada's safety was the first thing that needed to be done – at least on his end.

-------

The captain of the Emertland vessel Latavit_ didn't recognize the man across from him as the same boy he had transported six weeks earlier. It wasn't until the man spoke – in the halting, formal manner that the captain had heard before – that he made the connection.

"Young Jorgarn, praise Creation," the captain said with a smile. "Are you giving up and going home? I never figured you for someone who couldn't stand a little effort."

Jorgarn did not return the captain's grin and the teasing stopped.

"I need to go back to Longview," Jorgarn said. "It is of the utmost importance. I am lucky you were in port today."

The captain leaned forward. Any ship would gladly take a passenger across the water. It was a relatively short journey and Jorgarn was the best type of passenger to have.

"I need to get into Longview without anyone – anyone – knowing I'm there," he said. "I would like to be taken aboard as part of your crew. I will get off at the shoals just outside the strait and swim in. But no one can know who I am or why I am going there."

The captain narrowed his eyes and nodded.

"Am I allowed to know the reason?" he asked.

"If you find it absolutely necessary, I will tell you," Jorgarn replied. "There is more to your role. Once we are in Longview, I need you to stay docked for as long as four days. I need you to pretend to make repairs, take on supplies, whatever you need to do to remain in port. But I also need you to be ready to sail at a moment's notice. Lives may depend up on that."

The captain started to shake his head. This was too much for him to do.

"In return, you will receive duty-free shipping in this port for one year," Jorgarn said.

"Bah!" the captain snorted. "How do you propose to arrange that? Are you boffing the dainty Princess or something?"

The captain had barely blinked when he found himself lifted bodily from his chair and suspended against a wall.

"If you don't want the deal, say no," Jorgarn said. "I can find someone else with what His Majesty the King is offering. But one more unkind word about the Royal Household will cost your life. That means now or ever, Captain."

Jorgarn lowered the ship's captain back to the floor.

"I want it in writing," the captain declared as he rubbed his throat. "When I see the King's seal, I will believe it."

Jorgarn nodded and opened his cloak. He removed a letter with the King's seal. The captain's eyes widened as he read it.

"It this Crown business?" he wondered.

"No, not officially," Jorgarn replied. "It is personal business but His Majesty the King is aware of my actions. Another thing you need to know. If you do not abide by your agreement – if you abandon me in Longview or reveal my identity – you had better never sail into this land again. If I don't kill you myself, there will be a line waiting to do so."

The captain looked at the letter again and calculated the situation. Seven percent of his cargo went to the Crown in taxes. It was far less severe than in other places but seven percent was still seven percent. Duty free shipping into Emertland would create a tidy profit.

"Is your mission dangerous?" he asked.

"For me, no," Jorgarn said. "I am absolutely certain that I will be safe. For you, I don't know. I have heard there are dangerous types around the docks and there are always horror stories of sailors going missing or getting abducted. There is the slight possibility that you will never be able to dock in Longview again. If that happens, you have my word that amends will be made in one form or another."

The captain nodded. Longview was a fairly frequent trip for him. He liked it because it was close by and he didn't need to be away from his wife and children for weeks on end.

"I have heard rumors that you are Lord Longview's son," the captain admitted. "Do you plan to harm him?"

Jorgarn's eyes didn't waver for even a moment.

"That depends upon which Lord Longview I find at the estate," he said seriously.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by Zoltan The Duck.



-------

Chapter 12



The swim to land was less exhilarating than Jorgarn expected. In fact, he was freezing and extremely unhappy when he arrived ashore. If he had worn his sword, he likely would have drowned. He worried someone would recognize him in port. It wasn't like he was invisible in the land of his birth. The belief that he could defeat without a weapon almost any armed attacker in his brother's service was comforting, but not comforting enough to alleviate his unhappiness.

The trek to Gorin's home added to Jorgarn's frustration. It took him four hours to cover the distance in his wet clothing. The current had pulled off one of his boots. He expected to arrive at his mentor's farm just before dawn. Instead it was two hours after daybreak.

He was dirty, bedraggled and angry when he finally wended his way up the lane.

Gorin gaped in surprise when Jorgarn found him in the fields.

"Creations, boy, look at you!" Gorin said. "I hear things are going well in Emertland. What are you doing here?"

"Is Eslada alright?" Jorgarn said.

"She's fine," Gorin said puzzled.

"Are you certain?" Jorgarn insisted.

"I'm positive," he said. "I saw her not long ago. She asked me to contact Melodart and see if he is able to accompany her to Emertland. I won't be able to travel for another few days. She wants to leave immediately. The Princess' ascension is near."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"Yes, I know," he said. "So she is permitted to travel?"

Gorin stopped what he was doing.

"What is happening, Jorgarn?" he asked urgently. "Is Lady Eslada in danger?"

"Not now," he replied. "She might be if she announces she is leaving for Emertland soon. Where is Pietro?"

"Upland," Gorin said. "At least that's the rumor. He hasn't been at the manor in a few days. Is that imbecile planning something?"

Jorgarn nodded gravely.

"Lord Longview? Is he in residence?" Jorgarn inquired.

"He is," Gorin said with a slight smile. "Do you plan to visit him? If you do, you might want to dry off a bit. You can do that while you tell me why you look like a drowned rat."

"I need you to get Lady Eslada back here," Jorgarn explained. "I only want to deal with this once because if I have to say it twice, I'm going Upland myself and Pietro will not be back. Can you get her here? I only want a select few to know I'm here. There is much at stake – including Eslada and Denae's safety."

Gorin took Jorgarn by the arm. He felt the man tense.

"I'll go this minute," he said. "Now why don't you relax a bit inside? She was going to the dock to see when the next ship to Emertland is leaving. I'll catch her on the road."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I'll finish hoeing the... ," he paused. "What are these things?"

"Potatoes," Gorin said. "Haven't you eaten a potato yet? You've been there, what, six or seven weeks?"

"I've seen them," Jorgarn said. "I didn't know they were edible. The King and the Princess just pushed theirs around on their plates. I did the same."

"You have dined with the Royal Family," Gorin said. "You called the Princess by her given name. You have progressed more quickly than we expected. Well done!"

Farther than you think, Jorgarn thought.

"When do you expect your promotion?" Gorin asked. "Will you take the oath with the rest of the class or were you too far behind?"

"Go!" Jorgarn said with exasperation. "I promise, I will tell you everything while Lady Eslada is preparing. There is a ship in port that will be leaving as soon as I return. The sooner Eslada is back here, the sooner I'll tell you what has been happening and the sooner she can depart."

Gorin nodded and headed for his horse. Jorgarn picked up the hoe and got to work.

-------

Jorgarn had managed to clear two full rows before Gorin returned.

"I've brought in a helper and I want you to meet him, Lady," he said loudly. Eslada's frown turned to shock when Jorgarn turned around. He looked nothing like she had seen him a few weeks earlier. His hair was close cropped. His face was tanned. His shoulders appeared to be broader.

"Jorgarn!" she exclaimed. "Oh, I was just on my way to meet you in Emertland. Some idiot captain said he couldn't leave until his cargo arrived. I even offered to pay him double but he said his cargo would be unhappy if it arrived and the ship was gone, whatever that means."

"It means he feared I would have killed him if he left me here," Jorgarn said with a shrug. "Sorry. Are you well, Lady Eslada?"

"I am fine," she said. "I got the most wonderful letter this morning. Well, two actually. One was an invitation to help the Princess prepare for her ascension and the other was to tell me how well you were doing."

She paused.

"Why are you here?" she asked suddenly. "Nothing has happened to you, has it?"

"No," Jorgarn said with a smile. "I was, however, a bit worried that I would have to fulfill my promise to you. I came here to ensure your safety. Are you permitted to go to Emertland?"

"Permitted?" Eslada scoffed. "Yes, Jorgarn, I am. In fact, your father said he thought it was a good idea for me to go. Things have been tense at the manor since you left. Pietro has been ridiculous. I understand now that he kept himself in check when you were around for fear you would harm him. He asked your father to send him to Upland to check out the manor there. From the Queen's letter, I get the impression that you've mentioned Pietro a time or two. Now, what is going on?"

Jorgarn gave his friends a brief capsule of what had been discovered. Gorin was incensed and Eslada's eyes narrowed dangerously.

"I was to be auctioned off to a Lord in Emertland?" she raged. "The same group of bastards who could have married me 10 years ago? The Creator be damned before that happens. Which one? Which one of those bastards wanted to steal me as his wife?"

"I believe the plan was to make you Queen, Lady Eslada," Jorgarn said with a hint of mirth in his voice – just enough levity to anger Eslada even further.

"Symington," she hissed. "I wouldn't marry that toad to be Queen of the Known World. Is he hanging by his sac in the dungeon yet?"

For the first time, Jorgarn got a hint of the spirit that Torbert and King Landor had alluded to. What he had seen before hadn't come close. He couldn't help but laugh.

"You find this funny?" Eslada asked brusquely as she slapped Jorgarn on the arm. "If not for a bit of happenstance, your father would be dead and the Princess would be in Pietro's hands."

Jorgarn shook his head.

"It never would have happened that way, Lady Eslada," he said. "Her Knight Protector would have been more than a match for anyone Pietro dispatched."

"Unless he was in on it," she seethed.

"He isn't," Jorgarn said. "On that I can swear an oath."

"And who is this Knight?" she asked. "Does he come from a good family?"

Jorgarn laughed again – drawing more ire from Eslada.

"He comes from a terrible family," Jorgarn admitted. "His father is an ego-maniac and his brother is a lunatic. His stepmother doesn't seem too bad – a bit feisty perhaps, but not too bad."

Gorin dropped the mug of tea he was carrying to Eslada. It took Eslada a second longer to make the connection.

"You!" they exclaimed together.

"Him what?" another voice asked from the doorway. Melodart entered unannounced.

"He's the Knight Protector!" Gorin said.

"Not yet," Jorgarn confessed. "She awaits my answer when I return from my mission. But, as the Princess has said, that is secondary to what must happen here. Lady Eslada, you know that you likely will not have a home to return to after the Ascension. The Emperor will have been alerted. He will kill Lord Longview for permitting this."

"And let Pietro assume control?" she asked. "That is ridiculous."

"Pietro will be dead," Jorgarn said without emotion. "Sir Torbert is working with the King, Queen and Princess to develop a plan. I spent the trip across working on my own. I think they will agree to it or at least incorporate it into theirs. Pietro will die for his actions. I should have killed him before I left but I worried that I would be forced to assume his position if I did. It was selfish and I put you in danger. I doubt you will be permitted to travel back to Longview."

"I will come back at least once," Eslada said. "I can't pack everything I want to keep and I doubt the ship could hold it if I did. To do it would be to alert Pietro something is on the horizon. For now, I assume the plan is to let him believe his plan is working."

The trio discussed their next move for only a few more minutes – during which periodically one would say "You're the Knight Protector" in a voice filled with wonder.

The group broke up only when Melodart announced: "Well, I need to go. I have much to do and only a short time to do it. May I assume you'll wish to leave as soon as possible tomorrow?"

-------

The Princess had spent the better part of the afternoon staring at the water from the buttresses atop the castle.

"He's fine," Rayna said. As always, the Princess' friend and faithful companion was at her side. "Pernice says that a Legion of angry Velottans would have a tough time with Jorgarn if he was peeved. He has a wee bit of a temper – or so I hear."

"I didn't realize how connected I was with him until he was no longer near," Denae admitted. "It's like a part of me is missing. I just want him back with me."

Rayna had not been filled in on portions of the Princess' plans. Denae hated to deceive her friend but Rayna had been trying to provide a counter-weight to Denae's excitement.

"So he has agreed to be your Knight?" Rayna asked.

Denae shook her head sadly.

"I think it surprised him when I asked," she confessed. "I admit that I played that part badly. If I had understood the nature of my connection to him earlier, I would have never set that plan in motion. I'm worried that he'll think me to be a frivolous child – or worse, a manipulative one."

"Do you plan to tell him the rest of it soon?" Rayna asked. Although she was out of the loop on most things, she knew the look on Denae's face.

"The rest of what?" the Princess asked. "I told him of our bond. Father says Jorgarn's will strengthen once he accepts his role – I mean mentally accepts it. Right now, he's fighting the bonding because he feels unworthy of the duty."

"Not that bond," Rayna said as she tapped her friend gently over the heart. "This bond. I can see it when you speak of him. Does he know of that? You know as well as I do that nothing official can come of it. Do you really want to torment yourself that way? Do you really want to torment him?"

Denae closed her eyes and pictured Jorgarn.

"There is a way and no, he doesn't know how I feel," she said. "When he returns, he will be appointed as Lord Tremaine. I've spoken to Father and although he is reluctant, he understands that those lands are mine to do with as I please when I ascend. The only real problem might come if Jorgarn accepts the title and leaves the guards. You know, there is no official residence for Lord Tremaine. It would be somewhat awkward for him to reside at the castle if he didn't want anything to do with me."

Rayna smiled warmly and patted her friend's hand.

"He cares greatly for you," Rayna said. "But he has you on a pedestal. He views you as the future ruler of a powerful nation. He views himself, well, he views himself as Pernice. He is a simple man with simple goals. He and Pernice are not much different. There is a story going around about a meal he shared with little Merg. Jorgarn told Merg that the only reason he was a noble and Merg was a messenger was the accident of birth."

Rayna's smile widened.

"After being around him for the last few weeks, I can picture him saying that," she said. "But he doesn't view your birth as an accident. He can't love you until he forgets you're the Princess and simply looks at you as Denae. That is to your advantage, for now. He will make a valuable ally for you if you entwine his life with yours."

Denae looked toward the sky.

"Do you have suggestions as to how I might accomplish this?" she wondered dejectedly. "I can see that you're correct. He acts as though I'm made of porcelain. I can't even get him to call me by my name. It's always 'Your Majesty' or 'Your Highness.' It's been a struggle to get him to even call me Princess. At least that I could pretend is a term of endearment. How can I get him to see that I view him as a man, not just as a warrior or a future subject?"

"You might consider asking him for weapons training," Rayna suggested. "I mean, it would come in handy if someone tried to get close to you. Maybe ask Jorgarn to give you pointers with a dagger or even a short sword."

Denae brightened.

"I would like that!" she said. "What else?"

"From what I've read, Longview is somewhat more rustic than we are," Rayna continued. "Perhaps you could have a chaperoned hunt. Your father still has some game lands, doesn't he? Perhaps take two or three days – at least two so you can camp overnight. You'll have to have a chaperone. Maybe Sir Torbert would agree."

Denae's eyes showed that she was pondering the possibilities.

"Of course, there is one other obvious solution," Rayna said. "You could simply bide your time. Once he is your Knight and is around you often, he will loosen up. He'll see the real you behind the royal façade. And the real you is pretty difficult not to love."

-------

The rain kept Jorgarn from helping the sailors on the way back. He could handle his own in decent weather but he was a danger to himself and to others on a slippery deck.

Instead he stayed below and listened as Melodart and Gorin joined Eslada in peppering him with questions.

"You should have agreed to be Knight Protector immediately!" Eslada railed. "Jorgarn, it is an honor above anything else. To be selected as Knight Protector to the Queen is the highest compliment you will ever be paid. Not only are you valued for your weaponry skills, but you are valued because of your intellect, your demeanor and your charisma."

"I believe it is more a reflection on quality of the Noble Guard candidates than my abilities," Jorgarn answered. "It is a pretty thin class."

Eslada glanced nervously at Gorin and Melodart, whom she expected to defend the organization they had dedicated their lives to. Instead she was greeted by dual nods.

"The noble children are pampered and weak," Gorin said derisively. "They view the Guard not as a vocation but as a vacation. They all look around to see the best situation and then jump at it. We are stuck with very few who would have made the cut 20 years ago. Instead we get the ones with no place else to land. It's sickening. The Emertland Guard is head and shoulders above the Noble Guard. It is the group producing the new crop of leaders. The nobles could learn a thing or two from the commoners. They want to be there. For many of them, it is a lifelong dream to serve in the Guard."

"There will be more intermingling soon," Jorgarn promised. "Sir Torbert is of the same opinion: there is much the Emertland Guard can teach the Noble Guard. I have been there only a few weeks and I am already a Guardsman First Class and a Trainer. Many of the trainees have already left. Sir Torbert made a concerted effort to run off as many as possible. There are only 12 of the three dozen who started the class. Many of the full Guards have tendered their resignations in the past week or so. It has been an unhappy time for many. The ones who have stayed, for the most part, are working toward reclaiming the Noble Guards' glory. Of course, we still are stuck with the ones from those houses unwilling to feed another mouth."

Melodart was nodding thoughtfully.

"It's why your offer was so tempting, Eslada," he explained. "The Guard barracks we returned to upon your marriage was not the same type we left when you were but a girl, Milady. In just the 10 or so years we spent with you, it changed. It was sad, really."

"I can't believe my uncle allowed things to do so wrong," Eslada said sadly.

Jorgarn interceded.

"It was no more Sir Torbert's fault than it would have been Melodart or Gorin's fault if I had been like Pietro," he said firmly. "There was little to work with and he did the best he could. He recognized the flaws but he was powerless to stop it. Well, at least he was powerless to stop it without completely overhauling a tradition that's been in place for 200 years or so. But that is what he's considering at this point."

The trio facing Jorgarn was interested in hearing more but he wanted the King and Princess be apprised of the plan – something that had yet to happen with the other recent events – before he discussed it elsewhere.

"Tell me about Princess Denae," Eslada insisted.

Jorgarn shrugged his shoulders.

"I am not certain that I can adequately describe her," he said. In truth, he was a bit in awe of Her Royal Highness Princess Denae. "I have heard she is a bit like you when you were her age."

Eslada blushed brightly.

"We can hope not," she said. "I was stubborn – am stubborn, I suppose. I thought I knew more than I did. Is she like that?"

"Stubborn? Oh yes," Jorgarn admitted. "I can see that readily. She is ... decisive. I suppose she has to be. She has been immersed in her coming role since she was old enough to walk and talk. I'm not certain she had a choice to be anything but decisive. She gets what she wants, that's for certain."

Eslada pursed her lips.

"Is that why you're reluctant to become her Knight?" she asked. "I admit I was a bit pig-headed when I was a girl. But I've grown. I hope you can see that. I don't always think of myself first now."

"You were never that way, Eslada," Gorin interjected. "It was how your father and your sisters portrayed you but it was never correct. Mostly, you didn't fit their ideal of how a youngest sister should behave. Your brother understood that. He was a bit like you himself, although you weren't around yet to see it. Your sisters were all so very prim. They expected you to be like them. They expected you to be their version of a dress-up doll. When you refused, they prodded you."

Eslada smiled gratefully.

"Is the Princess like that?" she asked Jorgarn. "Is she distant and unapproachable?"

Jorgarn shook his head.

"No," he said. "In fact, she goes to great lengths to be approachable. I believe she does her best to put everyone she meets at ease. I know she certainly has tried to put me at ease when I'm around her. I think she wants to be viewed as simply any other person."

"You seemed troubled by that," Melodart said. He had seen Jorgarn's expression change.

"I am troubled by that," his former pupil told them. "She is not any other person. She is the Princess, soon to be heir to the Crown. Look, you've all lived in Longview for a few years now. We have nothing that passes for royalty there. Sure, my father would like to perceive himself as that, but really, we're not. We have a few minor houses. It's nothing like Emertland. Emertland must have 40 or 50 Lords and Ladies."

"Not quite so many, Dear," Eslada said. "There are 35. Well, 34 now that my family holds Wesring. Actually 32 because two are Crown lands cycled to the Royal spouses. Those heads are actually Dukes and Duchesses once they are married. There are other royals – barons and baronesses. I guess it is a fairly complicated system."

Jorgarn nodded.

"It is at best," Jorgarn said.

"So, what do you find troubling about the Princess' demeanor?" Gorin asked. There was plenty of time to continue his lessons on Emertland royalty later. "Do you think it will hinder her as Queen?"

Jorgarn considered his answer carefully.

"King Landor has done a wonderful job as ruler," Jorgarn said. "He has the same approachability as the Princess. He acts, much of the time, as though he is simply a normal man doing a normal job. He has focused much of his reign on making things better for the common person. Father could really take lessons from him, Lady Eslada. I believe the Princess will continue his aim. She is every bit her father's daughter. I think that is why I am so reluctant to accept her offer."

Eslada exchanged puzzled glances with Gorin and Melodart.

"You see gains for the commoner as a bad thing?" she asked.

"Oh, no," Jorgarn said quickly. "I hope you know me better than that. But King Landor has given so much attention to fixing the system that he has lost focus on his noble brethren. Some of them are hurt financially by his decisions. Many have taken the loss of prestige personally – as Cruit Symington can attest. My problem is that I am ill equipped to be any assistance to the Princess on this matter and many others."

"Emertland is a different world than I'm used to," he continued. "When Denae is Queen, the biggest problem she will face won't be from without. It will be from within. There are others who are better prepared to aid her. There are others with a better grasp on the situation. They already know who is trustworthy and who is not. They already have a handle on the protocol and diplomacy that seems to be a large part of the Knight's job. Anyone can learn to do what I can do. It takes a bit of skill but it is teachable.

"Much of what a Knight does is intuitive, instinctive. I don't have that. I don't have the tact – and I don't really want to develop the tact – to sit in the same room and play nice with Cruit Symington because he was fortunate enough to be born into the correct household. In that respect, I believe I would be a detriment, potentially even an embarrassment, to the Household as Knight Protector."

Eslada put her arm around Jorgarn protectively.

"You must understand something, Jorgarn," Melodart said. "Gorin and I both trained with Torbert. If something should happen to him, one of us would replace him as King Landor's Knight. Or at least we would have. Obviously we have not had the full training but we understand the rudiments and could assume the job if it were necessary. Tact and diplomacy are traits the monarch must possess. Truly, I doubt the Princess has developed them at this point, either. They come with age and maturity. Do not sell yourself short. Very few could learn what you know and even fewer could learn it as well as you have. You have intuition. You are naturally skeptical of everyone and everything. It is a trait that the Knight must possess. It, too, can be gained over the years but some people never learn it. They always think the best of everyone."

Gorin was nodding along with his partner.

"But of the many jobs the Knight will hold," Gorin added, "one of the most important is to protect the monarch from himself. The King – or Queen, in your case – cannot be permitted to view himself as infallible. There have been times in our history that the monarchs have declared their actions to be sanctioned by the Creator. We all know that is not true. The King and his Knight are simply normal people in an extraordinary circumstance. There is nothing divine about their roles."

"How do you explain the mental connection then?" Jorgarn asked.

Melodart and Gorin looked at one another sharply.

"You know of that?" Gorin asked. "What has Sir Torbert told you about it? It is supposed to be a fairly closely guarded secret."

Jorgarn looked perplexed.

"Sir Torbert has told me next to nothing," he said. "I have experienced it and, well, I'm not certain I like it."

The mouths of the former Noble Guardsmen dropped, not in response to Jorgarn's reluctance to have someone knowing his thoughts but in response to the fact he already had the connection with the Princess.

"Jorgarn, please listen to me," Eslada said. "The Princess has made her choice. Be it because you are the best of a bad lot or because you are destined to be there. From the looks on our friends' faces, I can guess it is the latter that has led to her choice. But it is her choice and she has selected you. If you deny her, she will be forced to settle for less than she deserves. Please consider that, won't you?"

-------

The Latavit made dock in Emertland mid-morning four days after it departed. The captain insisted his four esteemed guests exit the ship first, much to Lady Eslada's relief. More than a day on a rolling sea had left her queasy and unhappy. She dreaded the walk up the hill to the castle.

Eslada was surprised to see a Royal Carriage waiting with a contingent of the Noble Guard and Sir Torbert.

"Niece," Torbert said as he swept Eslada into a hug. "It's good to see you again."

Eslada could only imagine how terrible she must have looked – and smelled – but she welcomed the hug from her uncle anyway.

"What are you doing here, Uncle?" she asked. "Are you greeting every ship in port now?"

Torbert laughed and nodded toward Jorgarn.

"I was awakened quite early this morning by another niece," he said. "She told me that Jorgarn was on his way back and she believed he had company with him. I suspected it was you."

About that time, Melodart and Gorin emerged from the ship.

"But not those two!" Torbert said with a laugh. "You old bastards. What makes you think Emertland would welcome your sorry hides back here?"

The levity in Torbert's voice let everyone know he was joking.

"This place has gone to seed since we left it in your hands, Torbert," Gorin said. "We decided to come back and help young Jorgarn here clean up the place."

Torbert shook his head but continued to smile.

"So, the Princess could tell Jorgarn was close?" Eslada asked with raised eyebrows.

Torbert sighed and nodded.

"It is stronger with her than even with Landor and I," he said. "She came banging on my chamber door before it was even light. Batrix was not pleased, I should add. She said Jorgarn was approaching and he was not alone. She could tell he was relieved so she suspected that you were with him. She is quite adept at making correct conclusions from unrelated facts."

Eslada turned to Jorgarn.

"Did you sense the Princess?" she asked.

Jorgarn shook his head.

"Because he refuses to try," Torbert said in a low voice. "He could, I'm certain of it. Come, let's head to the castle. There is much to talk about."

"Jorgarn has filled us in on almost everything," Eslada said sadly.

"Everything he knows," Torbert said with a sly smile that caught Eslada off guard.

"There is more?" she asked. "Did you find more conspirators?"

Torbert's mouth twitched but his eyes sparkled.

"You can't have a conspiracy of one, now can you?" he said. The joy he seemed to be taking in this was unnerving. "You'll understand once you hear what Denae intends to do with that poor young man you've raised."

He turned away from Eslada before she could respond.

"Melodart, Gorin," he said loudly. "Did you come to beg for your old jobs back?"

The pair of former Guardsmen shared a glance.

"Perhaps in the future," Gorin said after Melodart nodded toward him. "Right now, until this whole business is sorted, we would prefer to remain attached to Lady Eslada as her shields. It is why we consented to move to Longview in the first place, but don't tell her that. We had kept tabs on her since her marriage. Surely you recognized that one of us was almost always taking leave. Training Jorgarn was a bonus. The next Knight Protector."

Both Gorin and Melodart smiled broadly at their student.

"Then I will offer you the hospitality of the castle as our honored guests," Torbert said.

He turned to face the last member of the disembarking party.

"And you, Jorgarn," Torbert said. "Your orders are to rest for the remainder of the day. Present yourself at the castle at the close of your evening meal. We will discuss what has transpired in your absence and discuss how to deal with this problem."

"As you say, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said with a bow.

"Someone is not going to be happy with that order," Melodart said in a sing-song voice.

"I will obey whatever orders the King or my Captain gives to me," Jorgarn said quickly. He was not displeased with the order at all.

"You are not the someone I was speaking of, Sir Jorgarn," Melodart said in the same voice he used before. He disappeared into the carriage with Eslada and Gorin before Jorgarn could say more.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by Zoltan The Duck.



-------

Chapter 13



Denae was sitting in her father's study when Torbert walked in – alone.

"Where is he?" she asked quickly.

Torbert shook his head and laughed.

"Hello, Denae," Torbert said. "It's good to see you again, too. No need to apologize for waking me before dawn."

The Princess glanced at her hands sheepishly.

"Well, you told me to alert you as soon as I sensed him," she said with a slight smirk. "I can't help it if it was early morning. So, where is he?"

"He's resting," Torbert said. "Eslada said they had rough water on the way over. They all looked sick and bedraggled."

"All?" the King wondered.

"Gorin and Melodart came with them," Torbert said. He couldn't contain the smile that came to his face when he thought about the return of two of his oldest friends.

"Wonderful!" Landor said. "Did you set them up at the castle?"

Torbert nodded and told him Eslada was resting in a guest suite.

Denae, meanwhile, was staring out the window.

"Denae?" Landor asked. "Are you OK?"

The Princess either ignored her father or didn't hear him. In fact, she didn't react until her father touched her shoulder.

"What are you doing?" Landor asked.

"I'm talking to Jorgarn," she said as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

-------

Jorgarn felt fortunate that Fieth and Renoit were out when he arrived. It had been almost four days since he had seen them and he was certain they were full of questions.

The fact that Symington had been dragged out of the barracks in shackles probably had added to the intrigue. Jorgarn wanted nothing more than to lie down and rest for a little while. First he felt the need to bathe.

He was reclining in the bath when he heard Denae's voice in his head.

"<I'm glad you're back safely, >" Denae said.

Jorgarn laughed out loud.

"<I was just wondering if you could read my mind from this far away, >" he thought.

"<I can, >" Denae said. "<Now you know. Are you resting?>"

"<Not yet, >" Jorgarn replied. "<I'm just relaxing in the bath. Oh, sorry. You probably don't need to know that.>"

"<I'm not embarrassed, >" Denae said. "<I bathe, too. So there was no trouble with the trip. Torbert said you brought Eslada and your two trainers back with you.>"

Jorgarn nodded his head unconsciously. With his eyes closed, he almost thought he was in the same room as the Princess.

"<Are you still awake?>" Denae asked.

"<I guess you couldn't tell I was nodding my head, >" Jorgarn said with amusement. "<That's good to know. It was a lot easier than I thought. Eslada was already making plans to come here. As soon as she got the Queen's letter, she was packing.>"

Denae was silent for a few moments.

"<Uh, Jorgarn?>" she asked tentatively.

"<I'm still here, >" he answered.

"<Uncle Torbert and Father said we can't do this, >" she said.

"<Why not?>" Jorgarn asked. "<I mean, we're not hurting anything.>"

"<No, not that we shouldn't do this, >" Denae replied. "<We can't do this. As in, what we're doing is not possible. I haven't been sitting here having a conversation with myself, have I?>"

"<Well, if you have, I have, too, >" Jorgarn replied. "<So, I guess we can do this after all. Why do they say we can't?>"

"<Wait, >" Denae said. There was a brief pause. "<They just say we can't.>"

"<What they mean is they can't, >" Jorgarn said. "<Because we obviously can. Someone probably told them this wasn't possible. So they convinced themselves it wasn't.>"

The warm water was starting to take its toll on Jorgarn. Despite the newness of having Denae speak to him from a distance, his eyes were getting heavy.

"<I'm think I'm going to sleep for a while, >" Jorgarn said through a yawn. "<Somehow with the ship tossing to and fro and Eslada complaining about seasickness, I didn't sleep much last night.>"

There was no reply from Denae's voice in his head. He was almost asleep when an excited Denae sounded in his head.

"<They can do it!>" she said and Jorgarn sat bolt upright in his bunk.

"<Huh?>" Jorgarn replied.

"<They can talk to each other, >" Denae said. "<Torbert went upstairs and Father could talk to him. We did it! We taught them how to do it. You were right. They had never tried because someone told them they couldn't do it. Father said they could get the other's attention from another room but they had never tried to verbalize anything. Now Father is acting mad because he's had to sit in the same room with Torbert for so many years when he could have just been talking this way. He said, 'To think, I could have had 20 years of not looking at your face.' It was pretty funny.>"

"<It sounds like it, >" Jorgarn said. He didn't want to cut into Denae's happiness but he was ready to rest. "<Can we turn this off?>"

"<They said we just sort of think about closing a valve, >" Denae said. "<At least that's how they turn down the awareness thing. It should work for the other. Do you want to try it?>"

"<Let's try this, >" Jorgarn said diplomatically. "<I'll turn mine mostly off while I sleep. That way we we're still aware of each other but we don't risk losing this completely. Why don't you go halfway? I'll say something as soon as I wake up. Does that sound OK?>"

Denae realized that Jorgarn was probably extremely sleepy but he was trying to be nice. She hoped he couldn't sense the wave of emotions that swept through her. She was elated that he was so considerate of her. But she was also happy that it appeared that he put her happiness ahead of his.

"<That sounds like a good plan, >" she said. "<Sleep well.>"

Jorgarn pictured a water valve in his head and imagined turning it almost closed. He couldn't figure how this would possibly work but, then again, there were so many things over the past few weeks he couldn't explain.

The last sound he heard before falling back to sleep was a soft giggle that sounded suspiciously like the Princess'.

-------

The castle was abuzz with activity for the next few hours. Torbert and the King insisted on trying out the range of their "consciousness," as they called it. They were saddened to learn that it extended for them only about a quarter mile – or the distance from the castle to the training complex. They could still sense the other and the other's general mood but they could no longer communicate via thought past that distance.

Queen Lorida had appointed herself personal secretary to Lady Eslada and was trying to arrange a permanent lodging in the castle or at least nearby. Like Jorgarn, Lorida had her doubts that Eslada would find a home if she should return to Longview. If her husband, the present Lord Longview, survived the attempt on his life from his son, Pietro, she doubted he would survive the Emperor of Swar's wrath.

Denae was pacing like a caged kitten, waiting for Jorgarn to awaken so she could talk to him again. It had been fun but it also had been enlightening. The non-verbal conversation she had shared with her Knight-to-be had been far less formal and stiff than their face-to-face talks. She hoped it boded well for a less staid relationship sooner rather than later. Although part of her enjoyed that Jorgarn felt the need to bow and scrape to her, another part knew it shouldn't be that way.

The Knight Protector, although not exactly equal to the Monarch, was not far below it. Certainly on a private basis, they were equals. Or at least the closed-door shouting matches about policy matters she had overheard between her father and uncle led her to believe that. It was also what she thought she wanted. But, again, a part of her wasn't sure it wouldn't be best for Jorgarn to remain in her shadow.

Lurking beyond everyone's excitement at the return of Eslada, Gorin, Melodart and Jorgarn was the specter of the upcoming decision about what would be done with the Symingtons and Pietro Elmwood of Longview.

-------

Jorgarn awoke not with the thunderous pounding upon the door that usually happened when he overslept. Instead it was soft but insistent rapping upon the wood that drew him from sleep. He muttered silently and opened the door to see Fieth and Renoit looking very relieved.

"You're safe, thank the Creator," Fieth said. "We were a bit worried about you."

"Oh," Jorgarn replied. It surprised him that someone would worry about his safety but he should have been considerate enough to let his roommates know he would be gone for a while. "I'm sorry. I should have alerted you but things moved rather quickly."

Fieth waved off the apology and Jorgarn washed his face and hands to prepare for evening meal. He was touched by the obvious concern Fieth and Renoit had shown. It occurred to him that he would have been worried if either of them had run off for half a week without a word of warning. The face in the reflective glass in front of him suddenly smiled. They were his friends.

"I'll be damned," he thought to himself. "I have friends."

He seated himself at the table and waited for the outpouring of questions. No questions came. Fieth and Renoit simply ate their meals and waited for Jorgarn to fill them in if he chose. If he elected to keep his whereabouts a secret, they wouldn't press. He was amazed at how the pair had changed in only a few weeks. Jorgarn was happy to let everyone succeed and he was not opposed to sharing what he had learned.

Fieth and Renoit had taken that to heart. They had become better warriors, that was for certain. But they had also taken a cue from how he behaved. The personalities that had remained suppressed, by their lives at home or by their original friends in training, had shone through. Jorgarn had decided that he was happy to have both men on his side.

"I had to go back to Longview to retrieve my stepmother," Jorgarn announced. There was nothing secretive about his actions and Eslada's presence at the castle would not go unnoticed. "It wasn't dangerous or anything but it had to be done in a hurry."

"The letters?" Fieth wondered.

Jorgarn nodded.

"Does this have anything to do with the rumor that Cruit has been exposed as a thief?" Renoit asked. There was a slight twinkle in his eye. The young man's sense of humor had really come to the front in the past weeks. As Renoit's confidence in himself rose, so did his penchant for wit and charm. "I mean, we heard a ceremonial sword belonging to a senior guardsman was found in his chambers during inspection. Many have said it was yours – the same sword that was hanging by the chamber to your room when our residence was inspected."

Jorgarn stopped eating.

"Oh, we didn't correct them," Renoit said casually. "I saw you tuck it into your tunic before you left. I mentioned to a few of them that we had seen Symington attempting to enter your chambers on at least one occasion. It added a bit of fuel but I knew you had your reasons."

Jorgarn smiled in relief. He had never considered that anyone in his dwelling would be put in a position to lie about anything. He was thankful that his friends had been able to think on their feet and to avoid an outright falsehood.

"I appreciate that," Jorgarn said. "Sir Torbert fully intended for you both to be briefed on what was happened but, I'm sorry to say, that was forgotten in the rush to do everything else."

Again Fieth waved off the apology.

"We knew of the letter to Symington from Longview," he said. "That was enough for us to know that something untoward was going on. That's all we needed to know. If you and Sir Torbert thought speed was of the essence, we would never question that. I'm glad we could keep things moving in the direction you wanted."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I will ask that you clear some time tomorrow morning," he said. "There is much more to it than I can say without clearing it with His Majesty. I hope you understand that the reason for my reluctance is not a reflection on the trust I have in each of you. It is simply that I do not know if His Majesty or Sir Torbert wants this to remain unsaid to everyone but those who already know. If we proceed as I hope we will, your participation will be crucial. Even more crucial than the role you've already played."

Neither man puffed up at Jorgarn's praise. Instead they nodded their heads gravely and returned to their meal. It was several minutes before anyone spoke again. This time it was Fieth who broached the subject.

"There is also the matter of the Knighthood," he said. "I know you have done your best to train one of us or both of us to be in a position to accept it. I suspect that you are perhaps the only one who doesn't see it for what it is. The Knighthood rightfully belongs to you. We have discussed it and we're certain the Palace has its reasons for keeping this fact from you. But it would be unfair for us – who consider you our friend and comrade – to sit back and allow you to have this come at you unexpected.

"Jorgarn, whether you know it or the Princess knows it, you are best suited to be her Knight. I will speak only for myself, although I suspect Renoit feels the same as I: I appreciate the lengths you have gone to present me as a viable candidate. But I am not the best candidate and I will not be except under the direst circumstances. I would prefer to never be considered as a possibility than to have those circumstances come to pass."

"I agree completely," Renoit put in. He glanced at his friend to see if Fieth was finished. A nod told Renoit he was. "I don't want you to make a dire mistake – for it would be costly not only to you and the Princess but to Emertland itself – by refusing to accept the honor because you believe one of us, or anyone else, to be a better candidate."

Jorgarn smiled at his friends from across the table. It was not the reaction either expected.

"We should have had this conversation a few days ago," he said ruefully. "Because I was completely befuddled when it was offered shortly before I departed for Longview."

Renoit pounded the table in happiness.

"Excellent," he said loudly. "I was worried that you would convince the Princess to make another choice. I am glad that is not the case. When does your training start?"

Jorgarn looked sheepishly at his friends.

"I, uh, well, I haven't accepted yet but I think my training has already started," he said. "I'm not certain that I am going to be afforded the opportunity to decline. I'm not certain it would do me any good if I did decline."

Fieth and Renoit both looked stunned.

"Decline?" Fieth asked incredulously. "Are you insane?"

He seemed to remember that he was speaking to a man who was probably deadlier than a water snake because he reddened. But Fieth didn't demur.

"Why would you consider declining such an honor?" he asked. "Jorgarn, I know you like to view yourself as a simple, humble peasant from a rustic land across the water. Damn it, that is not the case. I've seen the confidence you carry onto the field. I have seen the resolve you take into a confrontation. Your quick thinking in covering up whatever Symington had done until the time is right for it be known shows how clever you are. Your immediate action in rescuing your stepmother shows courage and fidelity. What other traits do you think the Knight should have? Do you think he should be able to fly or shoot fire from his eyes? Decline? Ridiculous."

"Although shooting fire from my eyes would be a useful skill, I was thinking along far more mundane lines," Jorgarn replied reasonably. "My largest concern isn't with anything you've named. It is more about my ignorance of Emertland and its traditions. I know so little about the intricacies of politics. I do not understand the underlying enmity of some of the nobles toward their subjects and toward the crown."

"And that would be a problem if the Princess were expected to assume the throne tomorrow," Renoit cut in. "Jorgarn, remember. King Landor was 33 years old when he came to power. He had 18 years to learn those things beside his father. Sir Torbert had 18 years to learn those things beside his mentor, Sir Alovat. King Landor's father was almost 40 before he assumed the throne. You will have time to immerse yourself in the political portions of the job. It is not something any of us knows right now. Yes, Elobert and I have been around the Court periodically for 15 years. We know who our parents like and who they don't. We can see the obvious reasons but neither of us has any idea of the underlying ones. For instance, my father likes Lord Lippit but Elobert's father doesn't. You know why?"

Jorgarn shook his head. He had never met any of the Lords in question.

"Neither do we," Fieth put in. "I like the man just fine. His son has even stepped up in the past few weeks. I would suppose it is something silly. But it could be something major. I simply do not know and my father would not tell me if I asked. You'll have ample opportunity to watch how the nobles interact with each other. You'll be able to see the cliques and you are perhaps the only one in Emertland who will be able to glean the information as to why the cliques exist."

"Why do you say that?" Jorgarn wondered.

"Because they will all try to sway you and the Princess to their cause," Renoit put in. "Probably not so much the Princess. She is likely to ally herself with her father's allies. But you are the unknown. You have no allies. Yes, you have people you are close to. But I can tell you with certainty that you will not like my sister. When she becomes Lady Renoit, she will not be your ally. She is as self-serving as the Symingtons. Conversely, you will like Symington's younger brother and sister. They act nothing like the older boys."

"But my sister, who also is no fan of Chicote's sister, will likely be her ally because our families have always been close," Fieth said. "Our trade agreements are intertwined and so is our lineage. So many Fieths have married Renoits over the years that Chicote and I are probably brothers but don't know it."

The fact that Renoit was taller and lanky and Fieth was shorter and broad didn't lend credence to Fieth's words. Jorgarn chuckled.

"OK, not brothers," Fieth said with a smile. "But you get our point, right? You have time to learn everything you need to learn. We consider ourselves your friends but in this respect we speak as future Noble Guardsmen. You are the best choice – the only real choice – to be Knight Protector for the Heiress."

Jorgarn sat back and suddenly was aware of Sir Torbert standing in the doorway behind him.

"They're right you know," Torbert said with a nod of thanks toward Fieth and Renoit. "Jorgarn, our presence is requested at the castle. Fieth, Renoit, please join us. The King believes your participation will be necessary as well to see this to a successful conclusion."

Renoit and Fieth glanced toward the other then at their apparel. They were not dressed for a meeting with the King.

"It is a working meeting," Torbert said with a gentle smile. "Your dress is fine. Please, bring your tunics and swords. We will be questioning a prisoner."

-------

A frustrated Denae was sitting at her father's side when Torbert arrived with his entourage of Guardsmen. She shot Jorgarn a pointed glance that he didn't understand.

"You're shielded," Torbert said in a whisper. "And she is not happy about it. It's why I had to go get you. She said she couldn't even detect your presence."

"Father, may I speak to Jorgarn and Sir Torbert in the courtyard while you speak with Master Fieth and Master Renoit?" she asked.

The King glanced at his daughter for only a moment.

"You may speak to him later," he told her. "Right now, we have more pressing matters. Master Fieth, Master Renoit, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am sorry there was not more notice but what we are to discuss tonight is important. It is also somewhat delicate. Master Elmwood trusts you both implicitly. Your actions during his absences show his trust is not misplaced. What we say here tonight must not be spoken of outside of the company of those in this room. Can you agree to that?"

"Yes, Your Highness," Fieth and Renoit said in unison. They glanced around the room and took in the other occupants. They recognized the King, Queen and Princess, of course. There were several others in the room they didn't recognize. Then their gaze landed on Pernice Wort, a member of the Emertland Guard. They smiled and nodded in acknowledgement.

"I believe introductions are in order, Dear," the Queen said. "I'm sure you recognize some of us. This is Lady Eslada Longview, Jorgarn's stepmother, and her two associates, Melodart and Gorin. They are former Guardsmen and Jorgarn's trainers. This is Rayna Clain, a close friend and confidante of Princess Denae. I believe you recognize Master Wort. I fear we have never been formally introduced. I am Queen Lorida. Please, call me Lorida in private. May I refer to you as Chicote and Elobert?"

Fieth and Renoit looked like guppies but they gamely nodded.

"Thank you, Lorida," the King said sheepishly.

Jorgarn had taken the opportunity during the Queen's introductions to apologize mentally to Denae.

"<I'm sorry, Your Highness, >" he thought. "<I forgot. I was having an in-depth discussion with Fieth and Renoit until your uncle arrived. I beg your forgiveness.>"

Denae nodded at him but he felt her disappointment. He didn't know why she was disappointed but he knew that she was.

"<We need to pay attention, Jorgarn, >" Denae said non-verbally. "<So let's push the other out until later.>"

"<Yes, Your Highness, >" he thought back and he pushed away her thoughts until he could just read her emotions. She was still disappointed.

"The Symington family has entered into a treasonous relationship with the heir to the Lordship of Longview," the King said. Elobert, Chicote and Pernice all gasped. "The thievery charge was a ruse Jorgarn created to keep this quiet. Cruit Symington has been held without communication for the past five days. We have intercepted his letters during that time but we have learned nothing new. Also, during that time, Jorgarn traveled to Longview to secure the safety of his stepmother and my niece, Lady Eslada. What we are looking for is a way to ensure the safety of Princess Denae and Lady Eslada without going to war with Longview or facing a civil war with Symington and his allies."

The King looked pointedly at Fieth and Renoit.

"Do you understand the ramifications of this?" he asked the pair.

Both nodded solemnly but didn't speak.

"How will your families react if the Symington family is removed?" Landor queried. "It is well known that your families are friendly."

"My father will follow the Crown, allegiances or no, Your Majesty," Renoit said without hesitation.

"I regret to say my father will likely follow the Symingtons, Your Highness," Fieth replied. "I however, will follow my King."

"I suspected as much," the King said with a soft smile. "I thank you for your candor, Master Fieth. I know it could not have been easy to admit that. Please, everyone in this room, while we are in private, call me Landor. We have much to discuss and little time. Denae's ascension is less than a fortnight away. We cannot waste time on titles and fumbling."

No one in the room could miss the fact that Landor was staring directly at Jorgarn as he spoke. Jorgarn blushed deeply.

"Does anyone have a suggestion as to how we deal with this threat?" Landor asked.

"Uh, Sire, Landor," Fieth stammered as he shook his head. "I am, we are, unsure of what exactly the threat is. Could you explain exactly what has been found?"

Again the King looked pointedly at Jorgarn.

"Father, he just arrived back and just woke up," Denae said, coming quickly to his defense. "He hasn't had time to discuss this and he wasn't told it was OK to bring them in."

"Sorry, Jorgarn," the King agreed. "She's right."

He took a deep breath and gave Fieth and Renoit a synopsis of what had transpired. He noticed that each man's eyes narrowed and their hands covered their sword hilts when he spoke of the threat to Denae. She had already won the affection of the future leadership of the Noble Guard, something that had taken him years to accomplish. A sense of pride washed over him.

"Kill them all," Fieth said simply. "Well, perhaps not all. The youngest children are nice. I believe it is because they are being raised mostly by the household staff. The rest of them..."

He seemed to realize he was speaking aloud.

"I apologize for my outburst, Sire," he said with deep blush.

"No, that was my initial reaction as well," Landor replied. "And it is true that the Symington clan will be a shell of its former self when this is through. I have focused mostly on the internal problems. I would like input from those with close ties to the Symingtons on what has been discussed. Lord Symington, his wife, his heir and his second son are to be executed for their part in this. There can be no other way. We are of the consensus that the younger children be allowed to return to their mother's homeland to live in safety so long as they renounce any claim to the Lordship. The fact is, it won't matter. The Lordship is to be disbanded. In a few moments, Cruit Symington is to be brought up here. Torbert and I will question him while Jorgarn, Pernice, Chicote and Elobert provide security."

"Gorin and Melodart will be in charge of ensuring the safety of Lorida, Denae, Rayna and Eslada, if that is acceptable," Torbert said. "I do not think the four of you will wish to be present when he is questioned but it is necessary that we have all the pieces of the puzzle. Are there questions?"

"What about Pietro?" Eslada asked.

All eyes turned to Jorgarn again.

"First, I think it is important that we alert Lord Longview to the threat to his safety," Jorgarn said. "I say that not because he is my father but because he is a head of state. We would expect no less from anyone else."

Heads nodded and Eslada looked relieved.

"Next, I think it is important for Pietro to think he is winning," Jorgarn continued. "Eslada, please correct me if I'm wrong but he is at his sloppiest when he thinks he is getting away with something. So long as he believes we are unaware of his plans, he will plod along as he is already doing."

"Agreed," Eslada said simply.

"I suspect he has someone in port awaiting a return message from King Landor," Jorgarn went on. "At least he does if he is not a complete idiot. This is still a possibility, mind you. He certainly couldn't risk his father finding out – unless a plan of succession is already in place. Anyway, I suggest we schedule a state visit for a few days after the Princess ascends. Instead of her Royal Highness, Pietro and his gang will find the several of us in this room. The most important thing is to keep Pietro thinking that the Princess and Eslada will return to Emertland in the near future, completely unaware of what he plans. If he believes for an instant that they won't, he will do something rash – such as trying to land an army of his misfits on our shores. Eslada, do you think I have the gist of his thoughts?"

"Sadly, I believe you do," she said.

She smiled slightly.

"Which is somewhat scary in itself," she added. "I will need to return to Longview anyway. I suspect that I will choose not to stay there but I must return at least once more. I am gratified to hear we plan to alert Wenta. I have lived as his wife for almost 10 years and he is a decent man. I hope we can find a way to ensure his safety as well as Denae's."

Jorgarn peered at Eslada for a long moment.

"The only way to do that is keep what is happening from the Emperor," he said. "Has Swar been alerted?"

The King shook his head.

"Then so long as he can protect himself from Pietro, his safety is assured," Jorgarn said. "I believe that my father will order Pietro's execution himself as soon as he learns the news. Perhaps that is the way to handle this. I can deliver the news myself if you choose."

"Pietro's death would alert the Symingtons if they are in contact," Gorin interjected. "I can't see how they are not corresponding regularly."

"The Symingtons have an estate just outside the Longview border," Chicote said. "I'm not sure of the country but it is north. My parents took us there when I was little. I think it belonged to Lady Symington's family."

"Just outside of Upland, I'll bet," Eslada said. "And probably not a mile from the Longview estate there. That explains how two sets of idiots found each other."

"I wondered about that," Denae said.

"So we are agreed?" the King asked. "We alert Longview of an unspecified threat but we offer no details. Eslada, do we need to deliver it in person?"

Eslada shook her head.

"Pietro is expected to be gone for at least another week," she said. "I'll write to Wenta tonight and perhaps we can find someone to deliver the message tomorrow. He is already on guard. He knows Pietro is capable of anything. The good news is that Pietro is unlikely to act until I return. It seems I am also an integral part of this plan."

"Torbert," Landor said. "Take your guards and fetch Master Symington. I believe he has much to answer for."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 14



Cruit Symington had spent the preceding days trying to figure a way out of his predicament. None came to him. He had committed treason against the Crown. There was no justifying his actions.

His failure would cost his family dearly. His brother's life was forfeit. His father and mother might be executed. His younger siblings could be killed. There was no way out for him.

"Symington," the jailer boomed. "You have visitors."

Visitors? Symington wondered if his parents had come to his aid. He doubted they would. He knew his brother was at his mother's estate in Domita.

He cringed when he saw Jorgarn and Sir Torbert standing in front of his cell. Both carried a look of raw anger on his face.

"Know this, Symington," Torbert said. "You live only because we have found a use for you. If you cease being useful, you will die – Longview style. Want to fill him in on how you kill traitors in Longview, Jorgarn?"

The feral smile that creased Jorgarn's face sent chills to Symington's toes.

"He is less than a woman but I suppose we could use that method," Jorgarn sneered. "In Longview, men are tied to four horses which are then sent in different directions. It's called quartering. I understand it is highly painful and it takes a while to die after your limbs are ripped from your body. Some men have lived for a week afterward because we cauterize the wound to staunch the bleeding. The remains are buried at five points on the compass. Our priests believe it ensures the man will wander the afterlife in torment."

Symington gulped noticeably.

"That is actually the most humane death we offer traitors," Jorgarn continued without pause. "Women are dealt with even more harshly. Generally, we allow them to be used for sexual gratification for several weeks – usually until they are almost comatose. Men, women, dogs, horses. They are used by almost everything. We simply tie them naked in the courtyard and let whoever wants them to have them. Just before they lose consciousness for the last time, we revive them. Then we shove a red-hot poker up their rears and sear their bowels closed. Death from internal infection usually takes another five or six days of excruciating pain."

He sighed wistfully.

"I am really looking forward to seeing Master Symington down on all fours trying to accommodate a stallion," Jorgarn said brightly. "I think I'll bring all the Emertland Guard and their women to watch. We can make a week-long party of it. Perhaps we can use it for entertainment the week before the Princess' ascension. I can keep him alive that long. I'm sure of it."

"You, you can't do that," Symington stammered. Jorgarn stepped forward lightly and drove his fist into the young man's stomach. Symington doubled over and retched on the floor.

"You are in no position to tell me what I can and cannot do," Jorgarn said flatly. "You have plotted the kidnapping not only of the Heiress to the Crown of Emertland but a member of the sovereign house of a foreign nation, my stepmother. You have sought to harm not one, but two women I am sworn to protect. I will do to you whatever I wish to do. If I cannot do it here, I will drag you to Longview where I will do it there. If I cannot do it either place legally, I will do it without sanction and accept whatever punishment is required. The only man who can stop me is His Royal Highness, King Landor. You had better come to that realization quickly and firmly. Now, on your feet."

Fieth and Renoit dragged a sputtering Symington to stand. Torbert dumped a pitcher of water over the young man's head in a vain attempt to alleviate the stench.

Symington, with his arms gripped tightly by Fieth and Renoit and with Pernice and Jorgarn's sword points in his kidneys, followed Torbert down the long dimly lit hallway and up the stone stairs to the main chamber. King Torbert sat regally on his throne in flowing finery and his crown perched firmly on his head.

Fieth and Renoit moved Symington to a spot before the King. Jorgarn hit Symington with the blunt edge of his sword behind the knees.

"Bow before your King and Master," Jorgarn spat. There was no play-acting on his part. Left to his own devices he would cut Symington into pieces one inch at a time.

"<Calm, >" Jorgarn heard in his head. "<Once Father has what he needs, I'm sure you will be allowed to deliver the punishment.>"

The King watched as Jorgarn closed his eyes, took a deep breath and stepped back.

"Cruit Symington, you have committed an act of treachery against the Crown of Emertland," King Landor boomed. "You have entered into a conspiracy to kidnap the Heiress to the Crown and to compel a marriage to a foreign noble. You have entered into a conspiracy to kidnap a member of the ruling family of a sovereign nation and compel marriage to an Emertland aristocrat. You have conspired to create a state of war between Longview and Emertland. The sentence for your crimes is death."

Landor's voice lowered.

"The manner of your death is entirely up to you," the King said. "You have moved to harm two members of my household. You sought to take my daughter from her rightful home and you sought to deliver my niece to your wretched brother. It is only with the greatest of reluctance that I have kept Jorgarn from action. If you answer our questions truthfully and provide information we find useful, your death will be quick. If you lie to us or you can give us nothing we don't already know..."

The King's impressive gaze bore into Symington.

"Then I will let Jorgarn decide the manner of your passing," he finished. "Not just for you and your brother but for your siblings and your parents, as well. Do we understand one another?"

Symington understood only too well. But the King did not give him the opportunity to consider a reply.

"Are your parents involved?" he asked.

"I don't know, Your Majesty," Symington said quickly. "But I cannot see how Comar could have planned this without their knowledge."

The King nodded but his eyes narrowed.

"Does Lord Longview know of this?" he asked.

Symington seemed surprised at the question.

"No, Your Majesty," he said. "Pietro said the Lord is a fool who wouldn't even see his death coming."

He paused for a moment.

"But Pietro also said Jorgarn was not as good a warrior as he pictured himself to be," Symington continued. "I am beginning to understand that Pietro's version of reality is somewhat askew. The answer is no, Your Majesty. For this to transpire, Lord Longview would have to be dead."

"List the people involved," the King said.

"Pietro, Comar and me," Symington answered. "Those are the ones I'm sure of. My father and mother I would suppose. Pietro is supposed to have men working for him in Longview. I would assume my parents have several retainers here."

"Explain the plan as you know it," the King commanded.

Symington recounted the various incarnations of the plot. Most of it had already been fleshed out but there was one piece of information that was new. Comar Symington planned to remain at his mother's estate until after the ascension ceremony. He planned to reside in Domita until the present Lord Symington retired at which time he would produce Eslada – or her child – as claimant to the crown. Cruit Symington would assume the Lordship. Of course, by that time, Pietro would already be Lord Longview and Denae would be Lady Longview.

The King glanced at Torbert, who nodded.

"You have earned yourself a swift death," the King announced. "Now I will give you the opportunity to earn your family a swift death, if they cooperate. You will compose a letter to your brother in Domita. You will tell him that all is going as planned and that you have been appointed to the protection detail. You will tell him that the Princess is excited about a trip to her mother's homeland and plans to make it her first trip after her ascension – if details can be worked out. You will include any phrases or information your brother will expect."

Symington nodded sadly.

"Cruit," the King continued. "Your execution will not come until after we have captured everyone else involved. If you have lied to me, our agreement is void."

Again, Symington nodded.

"Now I will give you the chance to save the lives of your younger siblings," the King said. "Jorgarn requires you to write a second letter to your brother. You are to leave it undated. We will provide that information. You will alert him that Lady Eslada is in residence in Emertland and not in Longview. You will ask him how he wishes to proceed. Is that clear?"

"I agree, Your Majesty," Symington said through his tears. Torbert slapped several pieces of parchment onto a table and jerked Symington to his feet.

"Write," he ordered.

Symington obeyed without a word.

-------

Denae was waiting for Jorgarn when he arrived on the main level after returning Symington to the dungeon. There was no effort of propriety on her part. She simply wrapped her arms around his waist and buried her head on his shoulder.

She had felt his rage through their connection. She had experienced the pain that lanced through him whenever he considered her being forced to marry Pietro.

"I'm sorry I was angry with you earlier," she said.

Jorgarn didn't know what to do. He wanted to put his arms around Denae but he knew that was inappropriate. To even consider it was inappropriate. Instead, he stood stiffly and accepted her embrace without returning it.

There were tears on the Princess' cheeks when she pulled back from him.

"Today, I felt closer to you when we were using our connection than I did just now," she said sadly. "Why can't we act like we did then all the time? Why do you have to be so formal and remote whenever you see me?"

"You're the Princess," Jorgarn explained weakly. He knew it wasn't a good answer but it was the only answer he had.

"I was the Princess this afternoon, too," she replied.

Jorgarn lowered his head. To him, this afternoon she was simply a voice in his head. He hadn't even been certain it wasn't his tiredness catching up to him. That, too, didn't seem like an appropriate answer.

"I don't know," he said instead. "You have to understand, Princess, that seven weeks ago I was a boy whose only goal was to avoid being a priest. My prospects included becoming a sailor, a soldier or maybe even a thief. Now, in just seven weeks, I am a man faced with the option of dedicating his life to protecting someone he knows only a little about, someone who undoubtedly wouldn't even have spoken to him seven weeks before."

"I would have!" Denae said angrily. "You said something to Rayna when you first met her. You said to view you as you are not as she expects you to be. Do the same thing, Jorgarn. Look at me as Denae, a girl who soon will be a woman, a woman who was accidentally born into a position. You expect others to see you not as a blood-thirsty warrior or the second son of Lord Longview but as Jorgarn. Well, I expect you to view me not the daughter of a king and a future monarch but as Denae. I know you can separate the two. I have seen enough of your thoughts to understand that. I know just now you wanted to hug me. I know you thought you should hug me. But you didn't because of who my father is. You wanted to hug Denae but you stopped because she is the Princess."

"I know," Jorgarn admitted.

"You are doing the same thing with Knighthood," Denae railed. "You fixate on the few reasons you shouldn't do it instead of the multitude of reasons you should. Eslada told us about your misgivings. You're wrong about those. I am no more prepared to be Queen than you are to be Knight. In fact, if Creation forbid, something happened to my father, I would ask Torbert to rule as steward for at least three more years and probably longer. We grow into this together. You serve beside Sir Torbert just as I serve beside my father. We come into it together and we learn together. We succeed together and we fail together. You are not supposed to have all the answers right now. You're not even supposed to know all the questions right now. Can you understand that?"

"Yes, Princess," Jorgarn said. "That was pointed out to me this afternoon. I'll admit I didn't consider that aspect. Just as I haven't considered taking the advice I offered to Rayna. I will try to be more accepting of both."

Denae's demeanor softened.

"Good," she said. "You're going to have to get over this whole Princess and peasant thing. First, you're not a peasant. Second, you can't view me as some fine vase. You have to be able to stand up to me. You have to be able to tell me that I'm being egotistical or pig-headed or downright immature. You can't do that unless you accept the fact that I am no different from you. You have to be the one person I can count on to understand that sometimes I might be wrong. I have to count on you to be beside me if I am."

"I noticed you said 'might be wrong' and 'if I am, '" Jorgarn said with a laugh and raised eyebrows.

"Well, let's not take anything for granted, Jorgarn," she said. "I have yet to be wrong and there is no indication that I ever will be. But it is something I must consider."

She shook her head.

"That's another thing I'll count on you for," she said. "You have to stop me when I get too serious. I've seen enough of my father these past few days to understand this job is going to be awful at times. You were in Longview but I watched him debate the punishment for the younger Symington children. I watched him as he struggled to find a reason not to kill them. I watched him come to the realization that there are people who hate our family enough to do something like this. There are people who hate me enough to do this."

"You get used to being disliked," Jorgarn pointed out. "At least I got used to it. But this is not about you or Eslada. It is about them – Pietro and the Symingtons. You and Eslada were simply pieces to be put in play to assure they got what they wanted. Pietro wants to be accepted as Lord Longview. He doesn't want the responsibility of it. He wants what he considers to be the prestige of it. You would go a long way toward establishing his legitimacy – in his mind. The Symingtons want to rule Emertland. Eslada was a means to that end. None of these people hate you. None of them even knows you. The problem is that they don't respect what you – and your father – represent.

"They blinded themselves into thinking this could actually have worked. It never would have, you know. The Emperor would have swatted Pietro like a buzzing fly. Pietro would have been dead before he ever swore fealty. Then the Emperor would have invaded Emertland as soon as Symington tried to take the crown. Not because the Emperor wants to rule it, but because he views hereditary monarchs as sacrosanct. Again, it is entirely self-serving. He wants his family to continue ruling Swar. The only wars Swar has entered in 20 years were to assist a hereditary monarch in regaining his or her throne. That discounts one very important point."

Denae was listening carefully. Although she had what she considered a firm grasp on Emerti politics, she was relatively uneducated about regional powers.

"What point is that?" she asked.

Jorgarn shrugged and smiled.

"You and Eslada would have killed them first," he said. "I know Eslada well enough to know that she would never permit herself to be under someone's thumb. My father is a figurehead but she is the power behind the scenes. I doubt you would sit idly by and allow Pietro to behave as is his nature. They would be dead within days."

Denae smiled warmly at the compliment.

"Which brings me to another point," she said. "I want you to train me to defend myself. I want you to devise a schedule to teach me to use a short sword. I don't think I could even lift your sword, let along swing it."

"Well, honestly, I have no experience with a short sword," Jorgarn said. "Perhaps Melodart or Gorin would be better."

"Stop," Denae said firmly. "I want you to do it. I want to learn from you. I want us to do this together."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I could probably modify what I have Merg doing," he said. "I have crafted him a shorter version of my practice sword."

"I know," Denae replied with a warm smile. "He is such a sweet little boy. I'm glad you're looking after him. I do want to learn to take care of myself, if necessary. But mostly it is a chance for us to start to develop that symbiotic relationship. When this business with the Symingtons is concluded after the Ascension Ceremony, you and I will be spending a great deal of time together. We have to expand the friendship we're starting to develop. You no longer work for me or for my family. You are part of my family. You will be the only unwed male I am ever alone with as a maiden."

"So long as there is no question of your honor, Denae," Jorgarn said. He had forced himself to call her by her first name. It brought a wide smile to her face.

"Oh, there will be no question of impropriety," the Princess replied with lifted eyebrows. "Because it is expected that you and I will get to know one another in that manner sooner rather than later."

-------

Jorgarn wandered away from this conversation with Denae and directly into the most important of many people he didn't want to see: King Landor.

"Just the man I was looking for," the King said with a smile. Jorgarn realized that King had been waiting for him and probably listening to his conversation.

"Your Highness," Jorgarn said as a sense of dread settled over him.

"We will be very busy over the coming days," Landor said as if he were discussing the weather. "Most of the ceremony is planned but you have much to prepare."

Jorgarn sighed and nodded.

"First off, you need to visit with Lorida and Eslada," the King continued. "They have agreed to assist you in outfitting your chamber. Well 'agreed' is probably not the right word. 'Insisted' is probably more appropriate."

"Your Highness, I have all I need," Jorgarn said.

The King's smile widened.

"You have all you need," the King agreed. "You do not, however, have all they think you need. The gulf is vast, I assure you."

"I don't want to end up with things piled on top of things, Sire," Jorgarn answered with a shake of his head. "As things are, I have most of my possessions stored in my trunk because space is limited."

The King smiled again and put his arm around Jorgarn's shoulder. He knew Jorgarn was uncomfortable with the closeness but Landor worried the young man might flee.

"The chambers in the castle are significantly larger than the barracks," Landor said. "Particularly those in the wing where Denae resides."

"Castle?" Jorgarn croaked.

"Yes," Landor told him. "Your chambers will be directly beside Denae's, Jorgarn. You are her Knight Protector. Just as Torbert's chambers are next to mine, yours are next to Denae's. You can't well protect her if you're a mile away. Now, would you like my advice on dealing with Lorida and Eslada?"

Jorgarn gulped and nodded.

"Let them do it however they want," he said with a conspiratorial wink. "Tell them that their sense of style is much more refined than yours and that they know better what you need than you do."

Jorgarn thought that truer words had never been spoken.

"You might even use those exact words," Landor continued. "When they are finished, thank them profusely even if your chambers look like they were made for a six-year-old girl."

Jorgarn's face fell and Landor's laughter boomed through the corridor.

"Oh, don't worry," Landor said and again winked. "Once they are finished, it will be the last time they will ever see the inside of your chambers. Denae will see to that. Over the coming months, you can alter it however you need – so long as those two never find out. That is your first lesson in dealing with females as an adult male. Let them control the things they want to so long as you can change the outcome without harming yourself. You must recognize when it is beyond your power to affect change without disaster arising."

The King and Jorgarn shared a laugh.

"You will need that lesson in dealing with Denae, my boy," the King said seriously. "Not in your Royal duties but in your personal relationship. She is headstrong and she is used to getting her way. I have allowed that mostly because she has usually wanted the correct things. Unlike some others we can mention, she was corrected when it was necessary."

"Oh, the Princess behaves nothing like Pietro," Jorgarn said quickly.

Again the King chuckled.

"I think if you reflect on it you will see she behaves exactly like Pietro," he said. "They simply have different goals. But both plow straight ahead seemingly unaware of what might be in their path. If something does crop up, they simply run over it, through it or around it. At least that is the impression I have of your brother."

Jorgarn couldn't help but nod.

"But, as I said, their goals are different," Landor continued. "At least I believe them to be. Pietro – and his friends, the Symingtons – are seeking personal aggrandizement. They want to be recognized and exalted. They want to be feared and catered to. Denae, well, she wants different things. She aims to redefine the monarchy. I believe she will work tirelessly to lessen the strength of the nobles and instill it in the commoner. During the coming years, while I am still King, she will be able to do this without raising many eyebrows. And I will allow her to because I agree with her goals."

Jorgarn nodded his head again.

"I believe you agree with her aims, as well," Landor said. "But I think you and I will agree that if she uses the same methods as she has used on you, it will proceed badly. But that is a conversation for another time. Right now, you need to be aware that you are the first male that Denae has ever shown the slightest interest in. She is at an age when many young women are preparing to wed or already married. Yet she has never had a suitor – and not for lack of trying from many families. I hope that you will take this portion of your job as seriously as you do the portions you are more familiar with."

"Sire, I can promise that I maintain the strongest sense of decorum around the Princess," Jorgarn declared.

Landor's laughter caught Jorgarn by surprise.

"Oh, I am not worried about you," he said. "Remember what I told you a few moments ago. This is one of those things that is beyond your control. Unless you feel differently about Denae than I believe you do, then there is nothing you can do to stop her. She has made up her mind on this. You can accept it and move forward or you can flail and fight and then have it happen anyway. I came originally to discuss the chamber with you, but I overheard the end of your talk. Torbert plans to talk to you about the lesser known aspects of your new job in the coming days. I simply thought you should know that I am aware of how Denae feels about you and it does not bother me in the slightest. In fact, I find I am remarkably happy about it."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 15



It was another day before Lady Eslada and Queen Lorida sent a request for Jorgarn to visit with them at the castle. Jorgarn had buried himself in his training routine in preparation for his return to Longview. He tried to force all thoughts of his conversation with the Princess and the King out of his head. Sir Torbert had been conspicuous by his absence so Jorgarn had yet to be able to ask him some of the questions that had come to him unbidden.

He could sense Denae's presence in his head periodically but for the most part, she seemed content to let him work though his questions on his own. He couldn't fathom that he and the Princess were expected to have a relationship.

What of her husband? Was Jorgarn expected to learn that aspect of court life with the Princess as well then forego it completely when she married? What if he married? No woman he knew, even the downtrodden souls in Longview, would put up with that. Perhaps he was forbidden from getting married in the future. Maybe discretion was required. He could understand Denae's point. They would be together almost all the time. She would rarely be without him by her side. But still, to think the Princess and future Queen would consent to such a relationship with someone like him boggled Jorgarn's mind.

Lorida seemed to sense his discomfort when he arrived at the castle. She patted him gently on the shoulder and told him everything would be clear in time. So far, Jorgarn thought, each new day brought something else to muddy the picture. When he had come to Emertland, he had thought he had a good idea of where his simple future would lead.

Now, mere weeks later, his life was filled with intrigue, conspiracies and the prospect of standing – and lying – beside the future ruler of the land.

Jorgarn's sense of dread deepened as he looked at where he soon would reside. It was a suite of rooms, not a chamber. He would share a sitting room with Princess Denae, thus giving her access to his rooms and he access to hers without alerting the others in the castle. Jorgarn silently wondered who else lived in this wing. He suspected Rayna did but that was likely to change once Pernice asked for her hand in marriage. Or maybe it wouldn't.

The three rooms that were to be his in the castle were larger than the four rooms and common area of the barracks. He shook his head in frustration.

"When will I be expected to move in here?" he asked Lorida.

"Soon," she answered. "Your formal training with Torbert will start next week. It is expected that you will be housed here because much of what you learn is secret in nature. There is almost a fraternity of Knights. From what I've heard, each one keeps a journal from the day of his formal induction until he is no longer able to keep one. That journal is bequeathed to his successor. It is never to be read by anyone else. Neither the King nor Torbert's wife has ever read his if the rumors are true. In fact, you and the Princess have already stumbled onto one of the closest-guarded secrets – the mental connection. It has long been rumored that the Monarch and his or her Knight would always know where the other was – if the bond was strong. But now we know for certain."

Jorgarn's mouth dropped. He had never intended to reveal anything that was supposed to be kept confidential.

"Don't worry, Jorgarn," the Queen said. "The only ones who know have been sworn to secrecy. Outside of Landor and Torbert, of course, the only ones who know for certain are Rayna and Pernice, Eslada and me. Masters Fieth and Renoit suspect, I believe. But unless you told them outright, it is only suspicion. Melodart and Gorin also know but they have been circumspect in their conversations. We have tried to avoid discussing it when anyone else was nearby. But that has been difficult with Denae."

Jorgarn sighed.

"I have been ignoring her in the last couple of days," he admitted. "The last conversation we had threw me a bit. There are portions of this that I am uncomfortable with."

Eslada glanced at Lorida and the Queen exited quietly.

"Are there things you are uncomfortable with or things you think you should be uncomfortable with?" Eslada asked. "Or is it more a general lack of knowledge? I am fairly certain that you did not spread your charms around with the village girls. I would have heard of it, I'm certain. I also know the servants were never molested without their consent and active participation. If you have questions about things, I'll bet Torbert or even Landor will be willing to discuss them."

Jorgarn blushed scarlet. There was no way he was going to solicit advise on such things from the uncle or father of his prospective conquest. It would be suicide.

"Yes, I suppose that would be awkward," Eslada said when she realized what she suggested. "Well, your father is out. He knows less than you do, I'll wager. I wouldn't ask your friends, either. Anything they would tell you would either be a lie or illegal."

"He could ask me," a voice said from the doorway.

Jorgarn turned to see Denae standing there. At least she was smiling.

-------

Jorgarn once again found himself embarrassed by a conversation with the Princess. She had asked Eslada for a few moments of privacy and Eslada had patted Jorgarn lightly on the cheek with embarrassment and departed.

"I'm sorry that I said that," Denae told him. "But I thought you should know. I only found out myself a short while ago. Jorgarn, it is something else we will learn together. We will learn to please one another. Can you please just trust me about this?"

"I do trust you, Princess," Jorgarn replied. "It simply takes time to get used to the idea."

"It didn't take me much time," Denae said with a wide smile and raised eyebrows. "Actually, I was thinking about it even before I found out that it was not only acceptable but it was encouraged. It is something that we will get to slowly and I will never command you to do something like that. Well, not outwardly."

A picture of a very naked Denae popped into Jorgarn's head.

"This connection has its side benefits, too," she laughed.

"You're much prettier than that," Jorgarn said. He pictured Denae, fully clothed, in his head as he saw her. She blushed brightly.

"Is that how you see me?" she asked in wonder. "I look like a portrait. There is even a golden glow around me. That's the ridiculous notion you've got to lose."

Another picture, this one of Denae looking up while seated on a toilet entered his head.

"Every time I think you're holding me in too high of regard, you're going to see that," she warned. She giggled for a moment before her face turned serious. "Jorgarn, I like you. I enjoy being with you. I enjoy our conversations and I like the fact you often see things from a different perspective than I do. I envision great things in our future. Do I believe that any two people can be in close proximity – mentally, physically and spiritually – without problems arising?"

Denae's face eased and she smiled slightly.

"No," she answered her own question. "Do I think there are not going to be moments when you drive me to distraction with something you say or do or don't say or don't do? Oh, those moments will come, perhaps more for you than for me. However, none of our bright future will come to pass; we will never be truly as great as we could be, if you don't stop viewing me as untouchable. I am touchable and it is you that I want touching me."

Another giggle escaped before Denae could stop it.

"Well, in a few days I am touchable," she said. "For now, I suppose I'm not entirely touchable. There is one tradition that must be upheld. I must be pure on my wedding bed. Outside of that one detail, it is you who will I wish to join me on my path of learning in that area, too."

Jorgarn had relaxed somewhat because he had resigned himself to the fact that it was going to happen. He had seen enough and heard enough of the Princess to know that when she put her mind to something, it came to pass.

"There are things I need to understand, Denae," he said softly. "But I'm not certain you are the correct one to answer them. It's not because they are embarrassing but because I'm not certain you will know the answer. However, I will ask them anyway.

"What happens when you marry? What happens if I wish to marry? Am I permitted to marry? What happens to our relationship when one of us marries? Does it stop? I get the impression that it doesn't. How do we present that fact to our spouses? The last Queen's rule ended more than 70 years ago. Society has changed greatly in that time. How am I expected to live with infidelity? I am positive that I would be unhappy if I learned my wife was expected to have a close, loving relationship with someone else. Torbert and the two Knights before him protected Kings. It was easy for them to have a portion of their lives separate from the Knighthood. It seems as though my job will be all-encompassing. No woman I know would be convinced to allow what will happen between you and me to continue. At least I can't believe it to be so."

Denae nodded slightly.

"Well, Jorgarn, I believe I can address some of your concerns but it is not the correct time to speak to all of them," she answered. "The time comes soon, though. First, let me answer the final problem. You will be the most sought-after male in Emertland as soon as word reaches the nobility of your Knighthood. Lords and Ladies will line up their sons and daughters for the opportunity to wed the Princesses or her Knight. It is a fact. Your task will be easier than mine in that regard. I must be wed to a Lord or an heir to a Lordship. At the very least, I must marry the eldest son of a foreign ruler, even if succession is somewhat muddied for him. You may marry anyone you choose. I do not think you are even restricted from marrying a commoner, if you would like. I would wager, Jorgarn, that there will be pinching and hair pulling at the Ascension Ceremony between high-born ladies wishing to share the first dance with you. Just as every Lord and Lady has paraded their first-born sons before me since I was 10 years old in hope that I will fall madly in love with him.

"You realize, of course, that my first child will inherit the Crown. If they are near in age, your second son will be considered a favorite for the Knighthood – assuming, of course, that your second son is not borne from me. Although I'm not sure that would matter, either. Well, more on that later. Suffice to say that many women – young and old – will wish to be your partner. The relationship that you and I develop and cultivate will not pose an obstacle for most of them."

Denae had seen the look on Jorgarn's face turn to a frown.

"Why would I marry someone who could accept that?" he asked. "I do not plan to marry for political affiliation."

He stopped suddenly and revelation dawned on him.

"I do not get to choose my wife, do I?" he asked with a grim chuckle. "You do. You will decide who I can marry or even if I can marry. Just as your father will decide for you."

Denae patted his hand softly.

"Technically, that is true," she said. "It will be up to me to present viable candidates to you. Depending upon the circumstances, you may be asked to marry the daughter of an influential noble house or a powerful foreign ally. Just as it might come to pass that I will be forced to do the same thing. In principal, though, I do not foresee it. For either of us. We would gain nothing by accepting spouses that did not suit us. For example, your father married Eslada not for her charm or her wit. He married her to ensure goods and services would still be transported from Emertland to Longview and vice versa. Longview's ties to Emertland died with my mother. Lorida was selected because her mother is the Queen of Calad. Lorida is not in line to inherit the throne. But her marriage to my father was not based upon affection but rather upon expediency. It was not political, however. My father believed I needed a woman's influence around the household and Lorida seemed to fit the role. Jorgarn, like it or not, it would have been the same if you stayed in Longview."

Jorgarn shook his head.

"Their priests do not marry," he said. "The priests' children are born to the church acolytes. It is a complicated system that I am unable to explain because I do not know the half of it. But you can believe me when I say that I would never be handed a wife without my consent."

"And it is unlikely that you will here," Denae said sweetly. "I promise you that if it is at all possible, you will be allowed to select your own bride. Or at least to have her select you."

She smirked slightly.

"And what will you do when some woman sets her mind toward having you as her husband?" Denae continued. "Whatever will happen when some poor, misguided woman decides that you are the person she should spend her life beside?"

Jorgarn returned the look.

"If I agree, I suppose I will try to marry her," Jorgarn said. "If I disagree, why I will simply have to leave the matter in your hands. After all, you could no more put up with a disagreeable wife for me than I could."

Denae laughed. She was relieved that Jorgarn was starting to relax around her.

"Ah, I suppose I always knew I would be dragged into your marital disharmony," Denae joked. "Alas, it is the price I must pay for having someone as disagreeable as you near me. So, do you understand that although it is not inevitable that you and I will be together in some form or fashion, it is somewhat unlikely that our relationship won't drift that way upon occasion? I already like you and respect you."

"I like and respect you, Princess," Jorgarn replied.

"You respect me too much," Denae answered.

"Perhaps," Jorgarn admitted. "But it is lessening. I mean the too much part. Not the respect. I still respect you."

Denae put her hand on the flustered man's arm.

"I understand what you mean," she said with a laugh. A part of her still enjoyed seeing Jorgarn in less than perfect control. "Do you think we can discuss another serious topic or will your mind keep wandering to bedding me?"

"We can discuss whatever you deem necessary," Jorgarn said, although his cheeks pinked lightly.

"Well, I suppose I wouldn't mind if your mind wandered periodically," Denae said with a wink as she slid a bit closer to Jorgarn. She wanted to see if his face would redden further. "My father and I have discussed how to reward you for your diligence in protecting me even before you were asked to be my Knight."

Jorgarn started to protest but Denae put her finger across his lips.

"You are to be commended," she continued. "It is only because of your actions that we knew of the plan. You are the one who decided it should be a trainee or a Guard to pick up the post from the foreign ships. It was only because of the information that you imparted to Fieth that he recognized the potential problem. He and Renoit are to be rewarded, too. I am certain that you will offer the appropriate remuneration once you are aware of it. But, back to you. You are to be awarded a Lordship."

"A what?" Jorgarn expulsed. "Why? That means that..."

"Wait for a moment," Denae said patiently. "It means you have an option you didn't consider before. The lands you are to be awarded are owned by the Crown right now. It is the Tremaine lands. You may accept the Lordship and govern the lands. Or you may accept the Lordship and leave them to be managed by the Crown. If you choose to govern the lands, you will no longer be a member of the Noble Guard and you cannot be my Knight. If you leave them with the Crown, you can remain a member of the Guard if you choose and you can be my Knight if you choose. I don't want you to be forced into anything. You have until the time of the Ascension Ceremony to decide."

"I don't want it," Jorgarn said.

"Unfortunately, denying it altogether is not really an option," Denae said. "It would be an affront to the Crown. You don't want to affront me, do you?"

Denae smiled to try to express that she was joking.

"No, I don't, of course not," Jorgarn said before he saw the smile. "Denae, this is all so sudden to me."

He sighed deeply.

"The connection, this thing with our thoughts, that doesn't happen every day," Jorgarn said. "From what I understand, you will have this with no one else. Even if you do choose someone else, this bond will remain. Is that what you understand?"

Denae nodded.

"I also believe it would be a benefit for you to have this with your closest adviser," Jorgarn continued. "So there is really no option of denying the offer of a Knighthood. I would rather be your Knight than a hereditary landholder anyway."

"Then you will leave the lands with the Crown?" Denae asked hopefully.

"If I must accept them, then I will," Jorgarn replied. "I don't need time to think about this. But will that create issues later? It was explained the Crown lands were not hereditary. Is that correct?"

"Tremaine and Somalt are the Crown lands," Denae explain with a touch of embarrassment. "I'm glad you are going to leave Tremaine with the Crown because, well, there is no estate or manor. Tremaine and Somalt share the castle. No one is really certain where one ends and where the other starts but it is somewhere in the middle of the castle. I know the training lands are in Tremaine and the Noble Guard barracks are in Somalt. Queen Lorida is actually the Duchess of Somalt. Tremaine was deeded to me upon my mother's death. She was the Duchess of Tremaine. The lands revert to the Crown upon death of the titleholder. It is done for a multitude of reasons but mostly so the spouse of the sitting monarch is not a burden if he or she outlives her spouse. If she outlives my father, The Queen will revert to being Lady Somalt regardless of who sits with the crown."

Jorgarn nodded slightly.

"So you will be forced to wed a domestic lord," he said.

Denae pursed her lips.

"I suppose that is true," Denae said. "But that is years away."

"What happens if Lorida and I both outlive you?" Jorgarn asked. "Does the lordship revert to the crown when you die or when I die?"

"Does it matter?" Denae asked. She wasn't certain of the answer because she fully planned to convince Jorgarn – eventually, maybe – to become her husband.

"Well, not really," Jorgarn decided. "I suppose that is something we can delve into later. I was just thinking how terrible it would be for Lorida and I both to live for 50 more years and for you to live only 30 more. I mean, your heir would have no lands to deed and it might be awkward. Has that happened before?"

"Probably," Denae said. "I know Duke Reopalt lived until almost 80. His wife, the Queen, died four decades before he did. I'm certain that it happened then. Do we really need to discuss this now?"

Jorgarn shook his head slightly.

"It's just a lot for me to accept," he said. "All of this has left me with hundreds of questions. Torbert and I will have much to discuss over the coming days. I hope to have most of them answered by your Ascension."

"Jorgarn, I have the feeling that for the rest of our lives, every time we get an answer two more questions will pop up," Denae said. "I think we're just going to have to get used to it."

-------

The move from the training grounds to castle went quickly. Jorgarn still owned little more than what he had brought from Longview. Eslada had decorated his chambers in muted colors that Jorgarn actually didn't mind. He probably wouldn't have minded more garish colors but the browns and greens suited him better.

He hated to leave Fieth and Renoit behind. They had become close friends and they had been extremely helpful in Jorgarn's adjustment to the situations he found. But Torbert was often at the castle and he spent a great deal of time acclimating Jorgarn to the impending Knighthood.

"You are already ahead of schedule in many areas," Torbert explained. "You have already developed a bond with your charge. That sometimes has taken years and sometimes it has not come at all. It's obvious to me that you are the correct choice. Additionally, you already have two others selected and partially trained to assume the title upon your death. Can I assume that Fieth and Renoit are your chosen successors should you die before Denae?"

"They would be the best choice but it will be Denae's decision," Jorgarn said.

Torbert shook his head.

"Denae's only decision is you," he said. "You choose your successor if Denae still lives. I chose Melodart and Gorin. One of them would have returned if I had died. Now, you and I must develop a tight relationship. In my absence, you might be called upon to protect the King for a few days. Additionally, there will be times, for instance while you attend to things with Pietro, when I will be responsible for the Princess. It is really no stretch. While she was underage, I was responsible for her anyway. Legally, I am responsible for her until you are knighted. That happens immediately following her ascension. The King plans for the four of us to spend a lot of time together, particularly over the coming months. You will find much of it boring – at least I do – but it will be informative. Court will start two months after the Princess' ceremony. That will be another learning experience for you. After your return from Longview, your first official duty will be Tribunal."

"I thought we had magistrates for that," Jorgarn said with a frown.

"We do for most things," Torbert replied. "But for serious matters, we have a Royal Tribunal. At least one of the four of us will have to attend each session. That is where I've been the past few days. It will be a blessing for me and Landor to have the help. We have fallen behind in the last couple of years since my predecessor as Knight died. You will attend with us for a few months. Then for another year or so, you and Denae will preside together at least twice a week. That is to let you get an understanding of how things work. For a while, that will be your most important function. At least while you're at the castle. I get the impression, however, that Denae plans a rather fanciful travel itinerary. I say fanciful because she is going to find her duties to be quite a bit more than seeing the country."

Jorgarn groaned inwardly. He was well aware of Denae's plans to spend as little time in the castle as possible. She had felt stifled for the past few years and she wanted to spend time not only seeing Emertland but other lands.

"How do you plan to break that to her?" Jorgarn asked. "Because if you leave it for me to do, I'll forget. I promise you that."

Torbert laughed.

"Her father will assign her duties officially," Torbert replied. "Neither you nor I will have to face that one. It won't be that bad. She will be able to travel six or eight weeks per year. She will need to be in attendance at Court. That lasts between three and four months. She will be expected to participate in daily meetings with her father. But enough about Denae, this is about your responsibilities. You need to start a daily report. No one will see it but the Knights who follow you. You will be the archivist until the next Heir names his or her Knight. You will learn much of your unofficial duties from these writings. Your official duties are few: you will protect the Heiress; you will hold the rank of Commander of the Noble and Emertland Guards; you will provide counsel to the Crown; you will preside over Royal Tribunals; you will uphold the integrity of the Royal Household at all times. See, simple."

"Yes," Jorgarn said sarcastically. "It seems to be the unofficial duties that are giving me trouble."

"Sadly, those are the ones I can give you the least help with," Torbert said. "I am aware of few of them. Most of those are secondhand – by reading the same writings you will read. I'm sorry. You can ask for my interpretations but sadly, you and Denae will have to figure what expectations she has and what expectations you will agree to."

Jorgarn nodded. He already understood some of what Denae expected.

-------

Jorgarn found the writings of his predecessors to be enlightening. He was heartened to learn that many who had been Knight Protectors for Queens had fought their feelings of devotion that had come with their closeness. Even the few who had wound up married to the Queen had felt themselves to be unworthy. That was why so few had assumed the title of King. But every Knight Protector of the Queen had fallen in love with her.

It was a product of their proximity and of the bond between them. For the most part, it was accepted without question. Husbands and wives had come and gone but the relationship between a Queen and her Knight was forever. The spouses who couldn't or wouldn't accept that found themselves relegated to secondary status fairly quickly. It was invariably a King who found himself voicing his jealousy and demanding the relationship between Queen and Knight end. Invariably, the Queen had either sent her husband back to his homeland – or his lordship – when faced with the ultimatum.

The wives of Knights seemed to understand the situation better. Marriages between Knights and their wives were politically motivated as frequently as those between the monarch and his or her spouse. But it appeared that Knights often explained the situation beforehand. Perhaps the ruling monarch had as well, but Jorgarn found nothing about that in the writings of his brethren.

Either way, he understood better that the feelings he had been developing for Denae were inevitable.

-------

Jorgarn was somewhat surprised when the entire group accepted his plan to deal with Pietro without question. It was essential that Pietro and Comar believe their plan was working. So Landor had sent a reply to Pietro's letter announcing that Denae would visit Longview when Eslada returned after the ascension.

The plan was to allow Pietro to think he would find Denae but instead he would find a select group of warriors – Gorin, Melodart, Pernice, Fieth and Renoit would join Jorgarn and several others hand-picked by Jorgarn and Torbert. Torbert wished he could go but there was no way he could leave the King and the Heir unprotected. So he grudgingly agreed to stay behind.

Eslada presented a problem, however. She insisted on returning to Longview when Jorgarn did. There was no dissuading her and Eslada's vehemence brought Denae into the fray. Soon she was pushing to be allowed to join the expedition.

Luckily Landor put his foot down on that idea. As it was, Jorgarn was forced to speak to Eslada in a way he never believed he would.

"I can't stop you from boarding the ship," he stated. "You are a citizen of Emertland and free to travel as you please. But I can appropriate the boat as a Knight of the Crown as soon as we set sail and I will if you force me. Thus, I certainly can decide when you get off the ship. If you do not give me your word – in front of everyone involved – that you will remain on board until I believe the situation is in hand, I will tie you to a bunk shortly after our departure. I cannot protect you if you insist upon acting impulsively. None of us can and you will be endangering not only yourself but each of us if we have to focus upon protecting you instead of dealing with whatever threat is in front of us. Now, you can make your choice. You can stay behind and I'll escort you over later or you can remain on board until I deem it safe for you to come ashore. Please let me know as soon as possible so I may bring extra rope if necessary."

It was plain to all that Eslada was shocked and displeased by Jorgarn's response. It was also plain to all that Jorgarn was correct and he had no intention of backing down. King Landor firmly expected to see an irate Eslada returning to Emertland with rope burns on her wrists and ankles once the mission was complete.

Jorgarn was surprised when Melodart and Gorin both took his side of the issue. Although their protection was unofficial, both regarded Eslada as their charge, as well. The rest of the select group wisely stayed out of the fracas.

The group – which included Eslada after she had given her vow to obey Jorgarn's command while on board – prepared to debark on its trip to rid Emertland of a traitor and Longview of its heir on the third day after Denae ascended from Princess to Heiress to the throne.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 16



Jorgarn spent almost every waking moment at Denae's side or with Torbert during the remaining days leading up to her Ascension Ceremony. He was paraded as though he was prized livestock in front of the Lords and Ladies who had made the trek to the castle for the festivities. Denae was correct in that many of them attempted to match him up with their unwed daughters – some as young as 11 – as soon as it was possible to speak to him.

Denae would inwardly smirk each time Jorgarn was introduced to a prospective wife.

The pair had decided to remain linked during much of the time, so Denae could tell how uncomfortable Jorgarn was – especially when Lady Wanner asked if he found her granddaughter, who was at least two years from any signs of womanhood, attractive.

Of course the same women and men were trying to interest Denae in their eldest son if he happened to be heir to the lordship, so Jorgarn exacted a small measure of revenge. He was given slight pause, however, when Denae told one gentleman that she had already selected her future mate and was simply waiting for the correct time to announce it.

Denae picked up on Jorgarn's thoughts on the matter and did her best to put him at ease.

"Your input will be solicited before any announcement is made, I promise," she told him. She had more free time to practice shielding her thoughts from Jorgarn, so he wasn't able to pick up on the slight amusement that radiated through her upon the pronouncement.

-------

The only sour spot during the festive week leading up to the Ascension Ceremony was the arrival of the Symington clan – minus their first and second sons. King Landor had members of the Emertland Guard greet the family outside the castle walls and to escort them immediately to the King's sitting room.

By this point, Cruit had been charged with nothing more serious than Thievery, a not insubstantial charge but not as grave as the Conspiracy Against Emertland charges that awaited his mother, father and brother. Torbert had insisted that Fieth, Renoit, Denae and Jorgarn attend festivities as a group, not because he worried for the Princess' safety but so he could gather them quicker when the Symingtons arrived.

As it was, Jorgarn was just finished a dance with Chicote Renoit's insistent older sister when Torbert appeared in the chamber. He pointed to Jorgarn and exited. Jorgarn knew what the signal meant so he gladly excused himself from Riset Renoit's clutches and gathered his charges.

Denae seemed to be relieved to be rid of her dance partner – a man at least two decades older than she and somewhat greasy looking – when Jorgarn appeared.

There was general murmuring from the crowd when Denae announced their departure.

"We have urgent business for the Crown," she said over the din. "I thank you for your kindness this evening. If it is at all possible, we shall return prior to the end of your festivities. If we are unable, I bid you a good night."

She swept from the room flanked by her entourage of Noble Guards to find Torbert waiting in the hall.

"The Symingtons seem to believe that all is well," he said with a shake of his head. "They have asked where Cruit is but we have told them he is on assignment until later this week. I suppose that is true enough. You will enter from the side door and block all exits after they are seated."

Jorgarn was close enough to the entry to hear when the Symingtons entered.

"Landor!" Lord Symington boomed. "Thank you for greeting us personally. We didn't expect to see you until later. How is Lorida?"

The King did not reply immediately.

"This is a formal meeting, Lord Symington," the King said coolly. Jorgarn could sense that the pause was to allow Landor to get his temper under control. That same pause did not work for Jorgarn. "I believe titles should be used throughout. Be seated."

Jorgarn led the others into the room. He stationed Fieth and Pernice at one exit while he and Renoit took the one nearest the Symingtons. Lorida, Eslada, Rayna and Denae entered and stood with Torbert behind King Landor. Melodart and Gorin stationed themselves on either side of the women.

"Your Majesty?" Symington said questioningly. "Is something amiss?"

"Indeed," Landor replied. "Your second son is waiting his execution in my dungeon. I would say that something is amiss. He has provided us enough information so that his death with be relatively painless. I will offer you the same."

Symington jumped to his feet and exclaimed, "This is..."

He didn't finish his sentence because Jorgarn had stepped forward and backhanded the man across the face with his gloved fist. He grabbed the stunned man by his shoulders and thrust him rudely to his knees before the King.

"If you so much as move anything besides your mouth they will drag two headless bodies from this room, you traitorous murderous scum," Jorgarn hissed.

Turning to Lady Symington, he added, "Join him on his knees, you awful woman."

"Allow me to introduce you to Sir Jorgarn, he is Knight-designate to the Heiress," Landor said conversationally. "As you can see, he takes his job very seriously. And he is quite serious about what will happen to you if you fail to answer my questions fully or if you, well, move anything besides your mouth. I don't think any of us could stop him and I'm certain none of us would try. Now, where is Comar?"

"He is with Lady Symington's parents for a few months," Symington said in feigned confusion. "He regrets that he will be unable to attend the Ascension Ceremony."

Lady Symington looked at the floor for a moment before raising her head.

"You stupid fool," she said to her husband. "You stupid, simpering fool. They know, damn you. Now every moment you draw this out is one more chance for them to allow that foul Longview whoreson to cast his venomous gaze on us. Tell them or I will tell them. But I will not have that, that filth decide our fate."

Both Eslada and Denae coiled their fists and stepped forward but Gorin and Melodart pulled them backward.

"He might be all you say," Landor said with a small smile toward Jorgarn. "Although, his mother was a niece to my first wife. So I don't think he is a whoreson by any stretch. And it is true that many from Longview hold a dim view toward bathing but Jorgarn is not among them. Denae, do you find Jorgarn foul or filthy?"

Denae's face was set in fury.

"I do not, Father," she answered tightly. "I believe my first act as Heiress will be to order 100 lashes in the public square for the former Lady Symington. I believe I will break her before she is killed. I will make her lick Jorgarn's boots and beg him to forgive her before she is allowed to die."

She glanced at her father.

"With your permission, of course, Father," Denae said off-hand.

"Well, if they do not convey all they know, Jorgarn will, indeed, set their method of execution," Landor said evenly. "So, you will need to discuss it with him. Longview had a very effective way of dealing with treason. It sounds as if Blanet knows of it. Is that so, Blanet?"

Lady Symington tried to keep her face from betraying her but the shudder that went through her body gave her answer.

"Yes, I thought so," Landor replied cruelly. "So, would you care to speak first?"

Lady Symington gave the group most of the same facts as Cruit had supplied. Nothing she said came as a surprise to anyone. What came next did, however.

Pernice had reported that Lord and Lady Symington had summarily ignored their youngest children, a girl of about 13 and a boy who appeared to be around 10, during the entire trek from the city's gates to the castle.

"Bralan and Drosset know nothing of this, Your Majesty," she said. "I ask that their lives be spared."

"So they can be beggars – a thief and a whore?" Landor asked. "That is their fate. Your Lordship has been seized by the Emertland Guard. You will be last noble Symingtons."

"My people will never allow it," Lord Symington said firmly.

"Your people cheered when we announced that the former Symington lands had been secured by the Crown," Pernice spat. "They feasted well into the night when they learned they were rid of you and ill-tempered spawn. None of your footmen took up so much as a club against us. We spoke to your Captain, explained the situation and they surrendered the Manor without so much as a drop of resistance."

Lord Symington's mouth dropped at Landor's cruel smile.

"So, Blanet, you have earned yourself the right to ask me to choose your manner of death although you have given us nothing new," Landor replied. "Dren, it is your chance to do the same."

"I knew nothing of this travesty!" he said. "Whatever that woman and her children had planned, I had no part of. You cannot simply claim land that has been in my family for generations."

"I can and I have," Landor said simply. "Those who commit treason forfeit their property and their lives. While it is true that property was always seized from commoners, there is no law that says it is cannot be applied to treacherous aristocrats. I believe we have four of the seven voting members of the Tribunal in this room. It will go our way. Besides, you will have no family left to govern the land anyway."

"Comar will return with an army!" Symington seethed.

"It is an even bet your idiot son has already been killed by my idiot brother," Jorgarn said after he backhanded Symington a second time. "We have a saying in Longview. If you are stupid enough to lie with a whore, don't be surprised when you arise with the pox. I would be surprised if either Comar or Lady Symington's parents are still alive. They would have been better off submitting themselves to His Majesty, King Landor, for justice. It would have been a far more humane end than Pietro offered.

"I believe that you have badly underestimated my brother. Why should Pietro settle for Denae when he could have Denae and Eslada? Why should he settle for having Longview when his children could rule Longview and Emertland? He is an idiot, yes, but Pietro is a cunning, cruel idiot. Tell me, how long has it been since you've heard from Comar? Weeks, I'll bet."

Tears formed in Lady Symington's eyes and Lord Symington's mouth gaped.

"I have information I would like to barter for my younger brother's life," a small voice said. All eyes turned to Bralan who had her arms wrapped protectively around her brother. "He is too young to know any of this. I overheard many parts but I couldn't stop it. I planned to leave this letter with someone during our visit."

She pulled a parchment out of her cloak and extended her hand. Fieth gave the girl a small pat on the arm as he took it and passed it to Landor.

"You are a brave young woman," Jorgarn said. "I believe your actions have secured both you and your brother's safety. If your grandparents are still alive, you will be sent there."

"They're involved, Your Highness," Bralan stated. "Just as deeply as my parents and my awful brothers. They would get to annex a portion of Longview for Domita. They would be rewarded handsomely for it. I believe it was my grandparents who started this whole thing."

"It was your father who started this!" Lady Symington said. "For 20 years, I have known I was his second choice of a wife. For 10 years, I knew he planned to replace me with Lorida. The King beat him both times. Those two boys have listened to their father complain and whine about the King and his taxes on nobility. They have heard him complain and whine about how Landor stole his bride from him – twice. They have heard him complain and whine about how Landor and then Denae planned to strip the power from aristocracy and hand it to commoners. Yes, my parents were in on the plot. Comar planned to stay with them until the time came to present an heir to the throne here. Since they are already dead, it won't matter if you know."

Jorgarn and the King exchanged a smile and Landor produced a packet of letters that had been seized from the mail ships when they stopped in the capital before sailing for other ports.

"We made that up," Jorgarn said. "Your parents are well and your son is licking his chops about the prospect of possessing the King's niece. But, rest assured, they will not live long. Once I kill Pietro, I will kill Comar and your parents. We will keep you and Cruit alive long enough for me to bring their heads back. Their grisly remains will be the last thing you see before you enter the Hereafter."

"Jorgarn," Eslada said soothingly. "There are children in the room."

He glanced at the boy and girl in the corner, where Eslada had her arms around them protectively.

"My apologies, children," he said. The girl shrugged at him but smiled. The boy's face belied nothing.

"Your Highness, my uncle," Eslada said. "These children will need supervision. I ask to be appointed their guardian until such time other decisions can be made."

"You would do that?" Bralan gasped. "You were to be kidnapped, raped, bred then killed – by my family!"

"But not by you nor your brother," Eslada said. "You risked your life to try to save mine. If your parents had suspected that you carried that letter, you would have been killed. You did not try to convince King Landor to spare your life but the life of your brother. You and he are perhaps the only two decent people to come from that unholy marriage. For that, I promise to protect you even if King Landor does not agree to make me your guardian."

The King looked at his niece and smiled.

"Master Pernice, would you be so kind as to help Masters Gorin, Melodart, Fieth and Renoit to escort these two traitors to their cells?" King Landor asked. "Then the guards are excused from the rest of this meeting. Rayna, I'm certain you have things you would rather be doing although you may stay if you like. I would, however, like to speak to Lady Eslada, Queen Lorida, Sirs Torbert and Jorgarn, Princess Denae, Mistress Bralan and Master Drosset for a while longer."

The guards led the prisoners rudely from the room and Rayna departed after a short counsel with Denae.

When the King spoke again, the harshness of his face was completely gone. It held the friendly, open countenance that Jorgarn had seen so many times before the plot came to light.

"We have spoken enough of unpleasant things," he said. "Let us speak of a more promising future for the remainder of the night."

-------

"Eslada, as you know, I have two vacant fiefdoms – three if you count Wesring," he began almost immediately. "I planned to split Wesring between three adjacent grants: Fieth, Renoit and Commerly. I believe that I will divide the Symington lands among those three and the former Wesring territory. I would like for you to assume Ladyship over the grant formerly called Wesring. You may call the grant anything you choose. I do this in gratitude for offering to accept the Symington children as your wards and so that you will be closest to the castle. Also, you will not need to choose between being a part of the manor in Longview and simply part of the royal family here. My second choice is to make you administrator of the crown lands but I have come to learn that Tremaine is to have its own administrator."

He cast a glance toward Jorgarn and Eslada's gaze followed. The rest of the room understood the implications even if Jorgarn didn't.

"That's wonderful, Sire," Eslada said. "I mean, about Tremaine. You needn't reward me for doing my duty. And you needn't worry about my return to Emertland."

She giggled softly and smiled.

"I would be equally as happy to live in your household and eat your food without the need for a landed title," she said with a smirk. "But I thank you for your kind offer. I gladly accept and I will suggest we call the land Longview. That way I won't have to have those dreadful priests make additional stationery for me."

Landor laughed but Jorgarn could see that Eslada was mostly serious. The look she shot him regarding the Tremaine lands had triggered a revelation in him. But with much to do and little time, Jorgarn's comments died upon his lips.

-------

The plan for the Ascension Ceremony was simple. Denae would walk down the aisle of the main throne room and stand in front of her father. He would ask her if she would swear to uphold the rights and responsibilities of the Crown. She would answer yes. He would proclaim her his heir and she would sit in the throne to his left.

Jorgarn's role was even simpler. After Denae was proclaimed the future Queen, she would announce she had selected Jorgarn Elmwood, son of Lord Wenta Elmwood of Longview, as her Knight Protector. Jorgarn would come forward, kneel and be knighted. He would move to stand behind Denae, as Torbert stood behind King Landor. The announcement of Jorgarn's new title, Lord Tremaine, would wait until his return from Longview, when the dissemination of the Symington holdings was revealed – along with the reasons behind it.

After the new class of guards was sworn in, the King would ask for business from the Lords and Ladies present, who would likely sit silently unless they wanted to be ridiculed, then announce a feast for in the honor of Princess Denae, Heiress to the throne of Emertland.

The King, Queen and Sir Torbert would lead the procession from the Great Hall, as it was called. Denae and Jorgarn would follow the King. The rest would be released by row, front to back, as seating at the Ceremony was determined by longevity of position. A Lord who controlled the largest area might be seated in the back if he had just come to the Lordship, while an elderly Lady who controlled only a small region would be seated in the front.

After the feast came music and dancing and general society functions. Then life would return to normal – or what passed for normal in Jorgarn's newfound world.

But all the practice in the world didn't prepare Jorgarn for the night before the Ascension Ceremony – when Denae knocked lightly on his door and asked to join him in his bedchamber.

-------

Jorgarn had barely lain on his bed when the light rapping came upon the door to the common sitting area he shared with Denae. He was startled when there was no delay following the knock and the door swung open. He could see from the shadowy silhouette that it was Denae.

She walked quickly across the floor as Jorgarn pulled the coverlet up past his chin. He could see she wore a light cloak that came past her waist. Beneath that, Denae wore only her dressing gown that stopped well short of her knees. As was his custom, Jorgarn was dressed in only his small clothes. His britches and tunic were on the chair across the room so he couldn't reach them readily.

Denae seemed slightly scared as she sat on the edge of his bed. Jorgarn shifted backward slightly to increase the distance between them.

"Can I lay with you tonight?" Denae asked in a small voice.

Jorgarn gulped. He knew what the phrase meant in his native language but he didn't think it meant the same in Emerti.

He was silent for several moments and Denae shivered as she sat. He could feel the tension in her emotions.

"Are you nervous about tomorrow?" he asked.

Denae looked at him. She looked frightened and tentative.

"No," she admitted. "I'm more worried about tonight. But I am willing to lie to you and say that I'm upset about tomorrow if it means I can sleep beside you tonight."

She smiled hesitantly when Jorgarn chuckled.

"Why are you worried about tonight?" he asked. "Is there some portion of the ceremony that happens the night before?"

Denae shook her head and tears came to her eyes.

"I'm nervous that you won't want me to stay here," she said. "I'm afraid that you feel less for me than I feel for you."

"You don't have to worry about that," Jorgarn said. "I care about you a great deal. This thing, knowing what the other is thinking and feeling, I can't help but care about you. You don't have to worry that I'm going to let you down tomorrow."

"I don't worry about you ever letting me down," Denae cut in, the words coming in a rush. "I trust you more than anyone in Creation. That's why I want to be here tonight. It's why I want to be beside you every night. I know that you're going to Longview in a few days. I know you say it's safe for you but I worry that you'll be harmed or killed. I've wanted to come here – to spend the night in your bed – since you moved to the castle. But I've been afraid. Afraid you'd send me away. Afraid that you'd think me a silly child."

"You're two months younger than I am but a world more accomplished, Denae," Jorgarn said. "I don't think you're a silly child. I never have, just so you know. I respect you and admire you. I hope you can tell that by my actions and my thoughts. But I worry about your reputation. I know everyone says our lives are intertwined forever but I care too much about you to put you in a situation where others might look down upon you."

Denae reached across the distance and touched Jorgarn's cheek.

"So you're making sure you protect me from myself," she said lightly. "Well, I have made arrangements so no one but Rayna will find me in your bed. I trust her almost as much as I trust you. She is the person who checks to see if I am awake. No one else. She knows to look for me here if she can't find me elsewhere. Can I stay here, please?"

There was a pleading tone to Denae's voice.

Jorgarn smiled warmly.

"I will need to find something more to wear," he said. "I am not exactly dressed for company. But yes, you can stay."

Jorgarn started to sit up but Denae put a hand on his bare shoulder.

"Stay as you are, please," she said as she shucked the cloak from her shoulders. "I am dressed as I usually sleep. You should sleep as you normally do. I just, I just want to be next to you. Waking up beside you tomorrow for the first time will be a perfect start to what promises to be a perfect day."

Denae slid the coverlet down and gracefully joined Jorgarn beneath it. She rolled toward him and put her head on his shoulder. Jorgarn wished he had bathed before coming to bed. But he had scheduled it for the morning.

"It's alright," Denae whispered, reading his thoughts. "I like the way you smell."

She inhaled deeply.

"I like it very much," she repeated softly. "But you need to relax. I can feel the tension in your shoulders. It's like sleeping on a stone."

One hand found Jorgarn's arm behind her and she pulled it across her waist. She put his hand on her hip and enjoyed the weight of it against her. For a moment, she wished she slept in as few clothes as Jorgarn did.

Her other hand touched Jorgarn's cheek in the darkness. She relished the rough stubble as she turned it toward her waiting lips. She kissed him softly in the darkness.

"Good night, my Knight," she said.

-------

Jorgarn was certain that he would never get to sleep. But Denae's warmth added to the peacefulness and contentment she radiated sent him to slumber rather quickly. The day was barely breaking when he awakened and looked down onto the restful face of his bed partner.

He leaned near to kiss Denae softly on the forehead and her eyes fluttered open. She smiled dreamily.

"Happy birthday, my Princess," Jorgarn whispered as he pulled his head back. He was well aware of how his breath smelled of the mornings. Denae cuddled tightly to his shoulder and ran her hand over his smooth chest lightly.

"May I kiss you good morning?" she asked softly. "Is it possible that my day can begin that way?"

"As soon as I eat a sprig of mint," he replied, embarrassed.

"It doesn't matter to me if you aren't scared of how mine will smell," Denae laughed. "Actually, kissing you might make my breath smell better."

Jorgarn had never considered that this particular affliction might be happen to everyone.

"It does," she said. "Well, at least it happens to me and to Rayna. I can say that for certain."

Jorgarn couldn't resist a slight joke.

"You've kissed Rayna of the mornings?" he asked with a grin.

Denae smiled sweetly.

"I'll never tell," she replied. "Now, may I start my day with a kiss."

Jorgarn leaned his face forward and kissed Denae's lips lightly. She shifted her body even closer to his and managed to put her arms around his neck. Jorgarn's hand fell off Denae's hip and across the swell of her bottom. A feeling of delight passed from Jorgarn to Denae and back again.

The pair was pressed so tightly together that Jorgarn could feel every curve of Denae's body pressed against his. He was slightly terrified that Denae could feel the protuberance below his waist pressing against her but if she did, she didn't pull away.

"How many girls wake up the first day of their womanhood in the arms of someone they will spend forever with?" she asked quietly with her face buried against Jorgarn's neck. "How many girls start their womanhood so near to the man who will be their partner for the rest of their lives?"

Jorgarn knew enough to know he wasn't expected to answer. Instead he gently clutched Denae tighter to him and his right arm gently rubbed her back, her shoulders, her neck and then her jaw. He thought he heard Denae purr and a warm feeling swept over him when Denae kissed his neck softly, then a little more insistently.

Jorgarn ran his fingers lightly through the tangles of Denae's hair as she kissed his neck and his shoulders and his chest.

"Creator," she murmured. "What have you done to me? How do you make me feel this way?"

By the time Denae was done exploring his body, she was almost laying astride him. Jorgarn continued to run a hand through Denae's hair, lightly massaging her scalp while his other hand gently traced circles on her back and her arms.

"I suppose we should arise," she said in a voice filled with disappointment. "Rayna will be here soon and my night dress is about to be removed."

"I would not do that, Denae," Jorgarn whispered as he kissed the top of her head. Her shift was already pushed up to her waist and Jorgarn had found the skin at her lower back bared to his touch.

"I would," Denae said with a laugh. "I would and I shall if I don't get up soon. I would have your hands on me everywhere. I would feel your lips on me everywhere. I would gladly surrender myself to you this very morning if I had my way. But then I would never wish to leave here and we have much to do. Imagine if my father had to cancel the Ascension because I was upstairs rolling naked with my Knight Protector. Although it would push the Symington scandal down the gossip ladder a bit."

She kissed Jorgarn lightly on his chest again and shifted until she was completely on top of him. He knew she was naked beneath her gown but her latest movement confirmed it. He could feel her lower hair tickling him softly just above his small clothes.

"Now, unhand me, you fiend," Denae said with a wide smile as she slid forward and kissed Jorgarn a little harder on the lips than she had before. Her movement put Jorgarn's hands on both of the soft rounded globes of her bare bottom.

"You must pay the toll before you may leave my chamber, wench," Jorgarn said with a grin as he rubbed her soft cheeks.

Denae bit her bottom lip and tried to look innocent.

"But, Sir, I am but a poor, maiden girl," she said with mischief radiating from her voice and from her body. "Whatever toll do you require of me? It would be scandal for me to be caught with such a brute as you."

Jorgarn used his thumbs to massage the muscles of Denae's lower back and her rear. He could tell from her emotions and thoughts that she enjoyed this immensely.

"A kiss should suffice," he said.

Denae's chin was resting on Jorgarn's chest. She kissed his shoulder, then his neck. His forehead followed his cheek as she pulled herself forward. Jorgarn found his hands resting on the bottom swells of her cheeks. He cupped them gently and Denae pushed backward against his hands.

Then her mouth met his ferociously. The kisses they had shared before had been closed-mouthed and brief. There was an urgency to Denae's kiss now. She kissed him strongly and repeatedly. Her body writhed atop his and his fingers traced the backs and insides of Denae's smooth thighs.

She was breathless when she pulled back, her eyes glistening with happiness.

"Tonight and every night thereafter, I will return to your chamber," she said. "I desire nothing more than to awake beside you every morning henceforth. I ask for nothing but to be able to kiss you first thing every dawn. Those are my birthday wishes. But if I am to avoid embarrassing Rayna, I must arise. Thank you, Jorgarn. Thank you for making my first day as a woman memorable."

Jorgarn wasn't certain how to reply. He leaned forward and kissed her on her nose.

"Don't start that again," Denae said as she pulled back the coverlet and sat up across Jorgarn's middle. For just a moment, he could see how high her night shirt had ridden. Then Denae pulled the offending object over her head and threw it on the floor. She was completely bare and she didn't seem the slightest bit embarrassed.

"You're beautiful," Jorgarn said in wonder as his eyes took in the sight of Denae's flawless form.

A feeling of warmth and happiness radiated across their connection.

"It is my birthday present for both of us," she said as she leaned forward and kissed Jorgarn again. The feeling of her skin on his sent a thrill through him.

Abruptly, Denae stopped kissing him and rolled off of him and out of bed. He watched her naked form as she bent to retrieve her night dress. She did not, however, put it back on. She walked to their joining doorway, stopped for a moment and blew him a kiss, then disappeared into their shared sitting room.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 17



The captain of the Latavit was resigned to his fate. As soon as he was summoned to the castle – to meet with the King himself – he knew he had involved himself in something that he would probably regret.

At first, he thought the King was going to admonish him for transporting Jorgarn and his party from Longview. He had spent enough time in Longview to know his female passenger was the Lady of the Manor. Then the captain worried that Landor would tell him that the parchment that awarded duty-free shipping was a sham.

By the time he left the castle, he probably would have settled for either.

"A war party," he said shaking his head. "I've lost control of my ship for the next month and I'm to be the captain of a warship."

Certainly the price the King paid was handsome. Not only did the captain receive another year of duty-free shipping into Emertland but the King insisted that he purchase the entire hold space that would have been used for cargo.

Instead the captain was to transport horses and a carriage!

Jorgarn would decide when the ship departed and where it docked in Longview. He would decide if the captain needed to change course during the voyage and probably how much ale to give the crew. Now he had to make two voyages to Longview in six days. This was an invasion force. He was to take the lead party across the day after the Ascension of Princess Denae, but he wasn't to dock. He was to let the party off in a longboat a mile from shore and head back to Emertland.

Well, at least his family wouldn't have to stand among the throng of well-wishers to greet the new Heiress to the Throne. The King had given him seats for his entire lot in the section reserved for visiting dignitaries and other "friends of the Crown."

His wife would be excited about that.

-------

Seni was somewhat surprised when Jorgarn pulled him out of ranks a week before the Ascension Ceremony. Seni had gone out of his way to avoid Jorgarn, partially in embarrassment but mostly because he didn't want to risk the trainer seeking retribution.

"I am told you are the most capable woodsman in our group," Jorgarn said. "We have a strictly volunteer mission, if you're interested. It is a scouting mission on foreign soil. The area where you land is almost entirely comprised of forests. You will need to accrue information quickly and silently and you will need to be able to meet the main force no less than two days after you land. Is this something you would be interested in?"

Seni goggled.

"Yes, Sir," Seni said. "I would be glad to undertake the mission. Does this involve your disappearance a few weeks ago?"

Jorgarn nodded but stood mute.

"Then I will go," Seni said firmly. "Is it a solo incursion?"

"You may select as many as three for your team," Jorgarn responded. "I will need you to select four others for the advance force. Obviously, I don't expect them to have your expertise. But they need to be able to move silently in the trees and remain almost invisible."

Seni pursed his lips.

"May I select men from the Emertland Guard?" he wondered.

"Everyone except Pernice Wort," Jorgarn said. "He will be a part of the main force. Master Seni, please make your selections quickly so I may speak to them. This is strictly voluntary. No man will be forced to take part and no man will be looked down upon for declining. That includes you. I approached you to lead the advance force because of your reputation and because of the work you've done in training exercises. You are not obligated to undertake this mission."

Seni smiled but shook his head.

"If you believe I am best suited for the mission, I will go, Sir," he said. "I can think of no one from the Noble Guard who is likely to volunteer. May I ask who comprises the main force so I can plan accordingly?"

"Pernice, Fieth, Renoit, Lippit, DeStrad and Chamin," Jorgarn said. "Plus the three others you name. Pernice will select four others. He is second in command."

"DeStrad and Chamin?" Seni asked. "I don't know them. Are they assigned elsewhere?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"They are assigned to Lady Eslada, the King's niece," he said. "They also may be required to do some woodcraft. They are well-qualified."

Seni nodded.

"I will have the names for you later in the day, Sir," Seni replied. "When do we leave?"

"You will set sail two hours after the Ascension Ceremony ends," Jorgarn said. "I would not ask you to miss that. But you need to be prepared to leave as soon as it is over."

-------

Jorgarn took his spot with the other Noble Guards lining the aisle that Denae would walk to her Ascension. He noticed her as she entered the back chamber, tugging at a portion of her gown.

"<You look beautiful, Denae, >" he thought to her. A smile came to her face almost immediately.

"<You look handsome yourself, >" she replied in kind. "<The green tunic looks nice on you but I can't wait to see how you look in your blue one, my love.>"

She hadn't meant to think those final words but she did. She blushed slightly but she didn't turn her eyes way. Jorgarn smiled back at her shyly as she walked past him beaming.

The swearing-in of the Noble Guard initiates came immediately after the Ascension Ceremony. Some of the nobles – who had children sent back to them – scoffed at the size of the class. Only 12 members of this class would take the oath. Prior to the ceremony, Sir Torbert, with the newly minted Sir Jorgarn by his side, raised his hand for silence.

"This is the final class of Noble Guardsmen who will take the path the rest of the squad has taken," he said. "No more will we take a man just because he comes from nobility. Henceforth, the following standards will be used for all incoming candidates."

A hushed silence fell over the crowd.

"Any family with a son in good standing can elect to send a second cadet through training," he announced. "We have decided to give preference to the dependable families whose children take the oath and live up the standards. If your family has not produced a full guardsman in the past 10 years, your candidate must meet exacting standards before he will be accepted. Those failing to meet the standards or failing to live up to the standards will be dismissed with prejudice. That means your family cannot send another candidate for 15 years.

"No longer will the Noble Guard be the exclusive club for second sons. Any child born of nobility will be eligible, so long as they will reach their 14th birthday prior to the start of formal court. That is correct. I say any child. A female squadron will be trained if there is enough demand for one. If not, we will train female guardsmen individually."

There was a gasp and some snickering from the ensemble crowd. But Jorgarn saw a look of excitement of some of the girls' faces.

"Sir Jorgarn and I are committed to growing the Guard," Torbert continued. "But that is our secondary consideration. Our primary aim is to restore the pride that has been lost over the past decade or two. We will do that in two ways: we will focus on training and retaining those we train; we will no longer provide a clearinghouse for your children. Our appointments will be based on merit. Those who complete the training will be required to agree to a three-year commitment. No more will we have people take our training to other lands or back to their families."

The crowd was again murmuring and Torbert held up his hand to quiet them.

"This class is the first in which every member met our exacting standards," he said. "That shows us it can be done. Certainly, we lost 28 of the 40 men who entered but those 28 simply could not cut it. Those of you who have had a change of heart and wish to re-apply, you're welcome. Those families whose sons have made it through the training in the past five years – and took the oath and lived up to its meaning – are welcome to recommend a second child. Any family sending a female will be allowed to send a son a year later if she qualifies for the Guard. Now I will turn the proceeding over to His Royal Highness, King Landor."

Torbert smirked a little when he turned to face Jorgarn before returning to his spot behind the King.

"<Very nice, >" Denae intoned in Jorgarn's head. "<You look very imposing in your blue tunic. That should get the nobility buzzing.>"

The ceremony ended shortly thereafter and Jorgarn escorted Princess Denae down the aisle again. He couldn't help but notice the pride in which the new Guardsmen carried themselves.

-------

Putting together the rest of the group was simple. It was harder to decide who to leave behind as almost every new member of the Noble Guard volunteered without even bothering to ask what the mission was. They only knew that Jorgarn and Pernice were leading it and the King sanctioned it. That was enough for them, even though taking the oath was two days away when the mission was revealed.

Torbert threw another problem Jorgarn's way.

"You know that Melodart and Gorin cannot both take part in any battle," he said gravely. "Also, either Fieth or Renoit will have to stand down and remain at the back of the fray."

Jorgarn looked him in puzzlement.

"Gorin and Melodart are my seconds," Torbert explained. "Fieth and Renoit are yours, I assume. Or at least they will be named such after the Ascension Ceremony. All three of you can never be in battle at the same time. If I am not there, Melodart and Gorin cannot be in battle at the same time. One of our seconds must always be relatively safe. You can send Fieth and Renoit if you stay behind but that is the only way."

Jorgarn shook his head in amazement. His plans depended upon having people he trusted around him, particularly when it came time to track down Comar.

"Cläda," he said. "I will have to let Lippit know. He is planning our foray into Longview. Am I required to leave one of them on the ship?"

"No, but they must remain behind the battle," Torbert said. "They must understand that if you fall, one of them must return to Emertland immediately. The safety of the Princess is paramount."

"But the Princess is best served if we succeed in Longview," Jorgarn asserted. "Ridding the world of Pietro and Comar will pretty much assure Denae's safety. Don't you agree?"

"For now it will but what about the future?" Torbert said. "It is the problem with naming your most trusted lieutenants as your seconds. It serves the Crown very well but it ties your hands at times in battle. When Cray, my nephew, tried to kill me, Gorin came to my aid and Melodart went to ensure the King's safety. Both of them wanted to deal with Cray and it certainly would have ended there. But when it comes to the safety of our charges, we must take every precaution."

"By that rationale you and I should never leave their sides," Jorgarn said.

"I understand your frustration," Torbert said. "But it is the way it must be done. Melodart and Gorin both understand. They might try to convince you to take them because they are no longer affiliated with the Noble Guard. But they are still my seconds. Just like your pledge to the Princess, their oath is resolute. It lasts their lifetime. You have the option of choosing others as your second. You must determine whether the long-term risk is worth the short-term goal – just as I did 35 years ago."

Jorgarn was not pleased but his demeanor was pleasant when compared to the others when he revealed his strategy to them. None of the four said anything in the presence of others and Gorin and Melodart seemed resigned to accepting their fate. But Jorgarn could tell that Fieth and Renoit were feeling left out. He asked them to stay behind.

"Gentleman, I wish I would have had the chance to speak to you beforehand," Jorgarn said apologetically. "There are some nuances to my post that still evade me: Such as what I need to discuss with you now. I saw the looks on your faces when I handed out assignments. I hope you understand that you were omitted not because I don't feel you are up to the task or that I believe I cannot rely upon you. The opposite is actually true."

Neither man appeared to believe him.

"You are to be named my seconds," Jorgarn said. "Do you understand the meaning of that?"

The man glanced at the other and shook their heads.

"If something should happen to me, one of you will assume the Knighthood," Jorgarn told them. "That means the three of us can never – never – be in the same engagement. It is recommended that we are all three in the same room only periodically. I did not know that when I made my choice. I consider you both my friends and my closest comrades. That is why I wanted you with me on this trip. Ideally, I should leave one of you behind but we are too far along for me to do that. It is the same reason that Gorin and Melodart cannot participate fully. They are Torbert's seconds. Does it make better sense to you now?"

"I don't like it but I agree with it," Renoit said sourly. "But, do we have the option of declining your appointment?"

Jorgarn laughed.

"No more option than I had of declining Denae's," he said.

That seemed to settle the matter – for the moment.

-------

Jorgarn crept silently to his chamber after meeting with his men following the Ascension Ceremony and festivities. He expected Denae to be waiting and he found himself somewhat disappointed that she wasn't.

He elected to keep on his undershirt in case she came to his chamber during the night but he awoke in the morning alone. He idly wondered if he had done something to offend the Princess or if she had been upset about the way he behaved the previous morning.

But he had training to attend to and a mission to oversee, so he left silently just after dawn and made his way to the training ground. The rest of his team was already waiting and they practiced low-light maneuvers until breakfast, which he shared with his team.

After breakfast, the teams split up so Jorgarn could gauge the level of woodcraft each possessed. He wasn't surprised that Pernice and some of the other Emertland Guard could move almost silently through the woods. He knew Gorin and Melodart were like ghosts in the forest so that didn't shock him.

What surprised Jorgarn the most was when Lippit, Fieth and Renoit snuck up on him and managed to touch him with a stick before he knew they were near.

"Cläda," Jorgarn said loudly as he spun around. He expected Pernice or Melodart. Instead it was all three of the Noble Guardsmen. "How did you do that?"

Lippit pulled out his trusty map.

"There is a dry riverbed not 200 feet from here," he said. "We followed it for the entire way. It was a bit longer but it was safer than plodding through the underbrush. We spent only minutes in the actual woodland. I've looked at maps from Longview. It might be muddy but I think we can do the same thing there. I believe we can get within 100 feet of the manor house without ever seeing a road or a forest, if the maps were accurate."

Jorgarn nodded his approval because he had provided the maps. Those with limited forestry skills would still be able to arrive unnoticed. He planned to have only Gorin or Melodart join him, Pernice and either Fieth or Renoit in escorting the carriage to the manor. His sense told him the initial attack would come at the dock. It would be safer for Pietro if he was far away when the actual attack happened. Jorgarn also expected at least two ambushes along the way. There were two sites that were prime candidates for a hidden attack. It was those two sites that Seni and his men were sent to inspect.

The rest of the groups would fan out and come at the manor house from different points. Jorgarn and his 15 men should effectively be able to surround the estate without anyone suspecting anything was amiss.

It was well after dark when Jorgarn made his way back the castle, satisfied that his team would be well prepared for whatever they found in Longview.

But once again, Denae was not in the sitting room when he passed through. He thought for a moment and sensed that she was in her chamber so he crossed the floor and knocked upon her door.

A very timid voice bid him to enter. Denae was sitting in her chair, with a coverlet pulled up around her shoulders. She looked tired.

"Are you well, Denae?" Jorgarn said with concern as he crossed the floor to her chair. "Do I need to send for a healer?"

Denae shook her head slowly.

"I'm feeling well," she said. She sounded sad so Jorgarn crouched beside her chair and took her hand.

"What is wrong?" he asked. "I can tell that something isn't right and it worries me."

He was massaging the ball of her hand as he spoke and he could feel the tension in her muscles.

"I missed you today," he said with a smile.

"Are you sure?" Denae asked warily. The question sat Jorgarn back on his heels.

"Yes," he replied slowly. "I'm very sure."

"You were angry all day," she said. "You have been angry for two days now. I'm sorry if I did something to offend you. You are almost completely closed to me. I can only sense your feelings when you're close."

She seemed so small, so timid, Jorgarn couldn't help but reach out to her. He pulled her tightly to him and hugged her close while he kissed her cheek and her hair.

"It is not you I'm angry with," he said. "I closed myself to you because I didn't want you to feel the rage inside me when I think of what will happen in Longview. I didn't want to expose you to what I feel when I think of Pietro and Comar and those filthy bastards who threatened you. I'm sorry. I was angry last night about something Torbert told me. These silly traditions are robbing me of my most capable men. Traditions are putting me at a disadvantage when it comes to your protection. I find it intolerable. It won't matter in Longview but if the time comes we face a real threat, it might matter greatly. But it was never a feeling of anger toward you, Denae. I did wonder if I had done something to aggrieve you, though."

"I felt that this morning before you left," she said. "I met with Rayna about my staff last night. It was very late and I knew you were already asleep when I came back. I didn't want to wake you. I know there is a lot going on right now. Plus, it is that emotional time of the cycle for me. I didn't want to, uh, you know, in your bedchamber."

Jorgarn looked confused and Denae laughed softly at his befuddlement.

"It is my egg time," she said.

Jorgarn appeared no more enlightened by the statement.

"Every month, I bleed – down there," Denae said as she pointed to her crotch. "A day or so before, I have cramps and I'm irritable. I didn't want to bleed in your bed. It would be tough to explain, don't you think?"

"Oh," Jorgarn said as he turned a little white. "You mean, every month. That must hurt. Is there a way to stop it?"

Denae smiled and clutched Jorgarn tighter.

"Well, there are a couple of ways," she said. "Once I get older – as in older than Lorida by about 10 or 20 years – it will stop naturally. The other way is to become with child. But it starts again once the baby is born. It only lasts a few days but my back and stomach hurt a lot beforehand."

Jorgarn pondered for a moment.

"Would it help if I rub them?" he asked innocently. "I mean, when I get cramps, it helps it I massage the muscle. Will it help you if rub your stomach and back?"

"You don't need to do that," Denae said. She was touched by his offer and she liked it when he, well, touched her.

"I know I don't need to," he said. "You survived this for 15 years without me rubbing your back. But if you think it will help, I want to."

"Well, it's only been two years," Denae corrected gently. "I've never tried what you're suggesting so I guess it is worth a shot. Are you sure you don't just want to rub me?"

She smiled and bit her lip, looking far more innocent that Jorgarn knew her to be.

Jorgarn returned her smile.

"Why must everything have an ulterior motive with you?" he joked. "I offer to do something that might help you feel better, without regard to the trouble it will cause me and you turn it around."

"Will you kiss me while you rub my stomach?" she asked in feigned shyness.

Jorgarn sighed.

"If I must," he said. "I suppose you'll want me to kiss you while I rub your back, too?"

"If at all possible," Denae said gravely. "But I don't see how you will accomplish that with me lying on my stomach."

"I suppose you'll have to lie on top of me then," Jorgarn said. "Will that pose a problem for you?"

"I suppose not," she replied. "But you are quite lumpy in spots. I'll have to find a way to make myself comfortable."

"One must do what one must," Jorgarn joked.

Denae giggled. This was a far better conversation than she anticipated having with her Knight. She stood suddenly and took Jorgarn's hand and led him to her bedchamber. He didn't resist much. He, too, had missed having Denae close during the night.

"Well, you need to undress," Denae said with raised eyebrows.

Jorgarn felt embarrassed. But he gulped and pulled his tunic over his head. He sat down on the edge of the bed.

"That, too," Denae said with a smile as she pointed to his undershirt. "And those."

She gestured to his britches.

Jorgarn complied. He unbuttoned his undershirt and took it off. He bent to remove his britches and his mouth dropped when he stood. Denae had removed her dressing gown and stood before him wearing nothing but oversized small clothes that resembled a baby's swaddling cloth.

She caught his gaze.

"It is necessary to stem some of the mess," she said ruefully. "I'm sorry."

Jorgarn wrapped his arms around her and enjoyed the feeling of her warm skin against his. Denae sighed comfortably.

"There is nothing to be sorry about," Jorgarn said. "It, apparently, is a part of nature. Now why don't you lie down and let me see if I can make you more comfortable."

Jorgarn's touch alternated gentle and firm on Denae's stomach and sides. She had to admit it felt very good. It felt even better when she pulled him to her for a kiss. Her meeting with the attendants Rayna proposed had additional benefits for the couple – one of them had mentioned the additional excitement in "open mouth" and "tongue" kissing.

Denae gently licked Jorgarn's lips a couple of times before slipping her tongue inside his. She wasn't certain what came next but she felt a tingle clear to her toes when Jorgarn gently flicked the invader with his tongue. He was having a difficult time concentrating on his massage and his member felt as though it might burst free of its confines at any moment.

Distracted by Denae's kisses, Jorgarn's hands wandered too far north and swept across her budding breasts and protruding nipples. Denae let out a loud sigh and tried to stick even more of her tongue into Jorgarn's mouth.

Unlike in Longview, sexuality and self-exploration wasn't taboo in Emertland. Denae had felt the sensation of her own hands on her breasts before but it was 10 times better with someone else's hands. Jorgarn realized what he had done and swept back down to Denae's midsection.

Not content with simply having her stomach rubbed but not wishing to end that portion either, Denae slipped Jorgarn's left hand to her breast. His rough palm was extremely gentle against her soft skin but the calluses made for a very interesting feeling when they brushed across her nipple. She was certain that if she would touch herself even a little on her special spot, she would go off. She wished that Jorgarn would do it for her but she knew he wouldn't without specific instructions – something Denae was too embarrassed to do.

Denae's hips were moving of their own accord and her breasts and stomach were tingling. Her mouth was locked tightly on Jorgarn's and her hands were locked behind his neck. The feeling got too much for Denae and she slid a hand into her lower clothes and flicked her fingers across the little nub at the top of her womanly place. It took only two circles before she felt the release she desired. Jorgarn's insistent hand on her nipple sent her to heights she had never reached on her own.

Jorgarn watched in amazement as Denae brought herself to orgasm. It was something he had done for himself occasionally – the most recent being the morning of Denae's ascension ceremony after spending the night with her – but always behind a locked door. He could feel a sense of shame rising in Denae so he quickly leaned forward and kissed her again. This time he sent his tongue into her mouth. His top hand traced down Denae's arm until it reached the hand that was still buried in her clothes.

As he kissed her, he used his hand to manipulate her fingers again until he could feel her breathing becoming ragged again.

"Please, no more," Denae whispered breathlessly. "Not right now. Let me rest for a moment."

Jorgarn retraced his route up her arm and Denae gasped again when his palm went across her bared breast. She closed her eyes to relax for a moment and soon fell into a deep slumber. Jorgarn watched Denae's breathing deepen. He pulled the coverlet over them both and closed his eyes to join her in sleep.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 18



The room was pitch black when Denae sat bolt upright in bed, throwing Jorgarn's arm off her shoulder. She felt uncomfortable and knew the reason why.

"Cläda," she muttered a curse in the Longview language that she recently learned. She could barely make out Jorgarn's eyes in the darkness. He, too, was awake.

"I need to get up," Denae said in an urgent voice. Jorgarn had awakened when Denae jumped but he was still groggy as he turned his hips to sit up. Denae slipped past him and walked across the room to her privacy chamber. Even in the darkness, he appreciated the way her body looked. Not even the make-shift undergarment could stop the smile that came to his lips.

Denae was frustrated and angry as she sat to clean the blood off her lower body and replaced the thinner covering with a thicker one that belted to her waist.

Why did this have to happen now? she thought bitterly. Why couldn't it have come after he left for Longview? I so wanted to spend the next two nights with him.

Jorgarn had lit a candle by the bedside and was in the process of inspecting the lower layer for bloodstains. After their conversation earlier, he understood why Denae had flown from the bed so quickly.

"Nothing on the bed," he said as she returned. He was surprised when Denae stopped dead in her tracks. She had expected Jorgarn to be gone. She had expected him to race to his chamber as quickly as he could. Instead he was on his knees with the covers pulled back when she walked back in. Then he lay back down as if nothing was wrong.

"You need to go," Denae said quietly. "I'm ... I'm unclean."

She could see Jorgarn's puzzled face in the light from the candle.

"Unclean?" he asked. "What does that mean exactly?"

"I'm bleeding," Denae said angrily. She gestured to her the region below her waist.

"I gathered that," Jorgarn said, still confused. "Why does that make you unclean? It's just blood, right? I mean, it's not something that I can catch, is it?"

"Of course not!" Denae said loudly. "It's just ... it's just that you have to go."

Jorgarn saw the reflection of tears on her face. He got out from beneath the coverlet quickly and put his arms around her gently.

"I don't think you're unclean," he whispered. "I've bled before. You've seen it. Do you remember when I got the scars on my back?"

"Of course I do!" Denae snapped. "It was only a few weeks ago. Do you think I'm stupid? I remember when you got them, how you got them and why you have them."

"What I remember most about the wound is how you reacted when you saw them," Jorgarn said gently. "I remember how sweet and caring you were. I remember how softly you removed the bandages to keep the pain to a minimum. I remember you doing everything in your power to make sure I felt better. I want to do the same for you."

"It's messy," Denae insisted.

"So if I am injured – either in battle or in training – you will expect to sleep by yourself until I completely heal?" Jorgarn wondered.

"No," Denae replied in a softer voice than her previous statements.

"It's blood, my sweet," Jorgarn said. "I've bled before and I'll bleed again. If you want me to go, I will. But I want you to understand that it is not my wish to go. It is my wish to give you as much comfort as you did for me – and as you will likely do for me in the future."

He smiled and kissed Denae softly on the cheek, then started for the door to their sitting room.

"Wait," Denae said softly. "You don't mind that I might bleed on you? You don't think that I'm dirty?"

"No and no," Jorgarn said evenly. "I do not think you're dirty and I don't worry about blood. So, may I stay?"

Denae nodded and Jorgarn slipped back into the bed. The couple had switched sides, so Jorgarn was nearer the wall. Denae lay on his left arm and he used his right to stroke her hair softly. In scant minutes, she had scooted her back closer to his front and fallen back to sleep.

-------

Denae felt Jorgarn's warmth on her back and his hard member pressed firmly on her rear. His strong arms encircled her and for a moment she reveled in having him so close to her. Then she remembered her middle-of-the-night race to the privacy chamber. She shifted her hips farther away from Jorgarn, breaking the contact.

He grasped her small waist and pulled her back to him.

"I'm not ready to get up yet," he said into her ear. "I think we should stay this way all day."

"How long have you been awake?" Denae said as she again tried to pull away from him.

"A short while," he answered. "Not long. I like waking up with you. It makes me feel, I don't know, happy, I guess."

"I need to get up and change this thing," Denae said quietly. "I can feel that it's soaked though. I've probably got my blood all over you."

"It will wash off," Jorgarn said. "If it doesn't, you will be the only person to see it for years to come."

Denae's laughter caught Jorgarn off guard.

"We could have completed the act last night," she said as she rolled to face him. "We could have explained the blood on the sheets as my egg time."

"Completed the act?" Jorgarn wondered aloud. A picture entered his mind and he blushed furiously. "I promise that you will go to your marriage bed pure, Princess."

"Oh, I know," she said, still with a grin. "I was just saying that to see you blush. You've started to become entirely too comfortable with handling my body. Now, get your behind out of bed and see about finishing up this Longview business. You and I have much to do and I am tired of losing you to planning sessions."

She leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek.

"Yes, Your Most Exalted Bossiness," he replied with a laugh.

Denae flipped the cover back and glanced at Jorgarn's waist. There was no sign of blood on his legs or on his lower clothes. She took an appraising look at what her rear had been resting on. It was larger than what she had expected.

Jorgarn caught where she was looking and colored again. He pulled the coverlet back to his waist.

"Bah," Denae said as she stood. "I spend the night with that thing pressed against me and you get upset when I want to see what it looks like."

She leaned forward again and offered Jorgarn another kiss, this time on the lips.

"Good morning," she said. "And thank you for staying last night. I slept much better than I usually do when this time comes."

Jorgarn smiled his welcome.

"I'll make the utmost effort to be with you for our evening meal," he said. "I have to check the tidal chart with the captain to see when we will leave. I'll make sure you know if it is going to be early in the morning."

"Either way, I want you with me tonight," Denae said as she disappeared into her privacy chamber. "Even if it is only for a little while, I want you with me when I fall asleep. Promise me?"

"I promise," Jorgarn said as he made his way into his own chamber to make the final preparations for battle.

-------

Denae was humming softly as she washed herself when Rayna entered. Her friend raised her eyebrows in surprise, particularly since she could see the gathering of material at the waist signaling the start of Denae's egg time.

"You seem happy this morning," Rayna ventured. The days preceding and the first day of Denae's flow were sometimes perilous.

"It was a good night," Denae said off-hand. "I slept very well."

"Really?" Rayna asked in surprise. Denae was usually grumpy and unhappy when she had to get up in the middle of the night for cleaning purposes. Rayna didn't begrudge the Princess her irksomeness because Rayna felt the same way. In fact, the pair was so close in every respect that their egg times usually occurred within a day of the other.

"I had a nice warm body pressed to my back," Denae confided. "It lessened my discomfort considerably."

"He slept through your trip to the chamber?" Rayna said with a shake of her head. "I'm surprised. But then I'm surprised that he was willing to stay at all."

Denae laughed.

"He was wonderful!" Denae said. "A little naïve about the ways of women – OK, a lot naïve – but he was sweet and caring and wonderful. I told him what was happening. I don't think anyone has had this discussion with him before because he was somewhat stunned. But he rubbed my stomach – and a little higher – which was amazing. I, uh..."

Denae trailed off with a blush before raising her head.

"I got myself across right beside him," Denae admitted. "We practiced tongue kissing and he rubbed my breasts. It felt so wonderful and I needed it so badly. So I did it. I expected him to be mortified but he just kissed me again and helped me continue it longer than I've ever gone before. He put his hand right on top of mine and it just kept going and going."

Rayna shook her head in amazement. She had never expected Denae to go so far so quickly and she certainly had never expected the staid, calm Jorgarn to participate as fully as he seemed to be doing. She also was surprised that Denae supplied a recap so readily. It boded well for their future plans.

"If you want to feel something really amazing, let him use his lips on your breasts," Rayna said with a smile. "Particularly during my egg time, it is a wonderful feeling. Did you help Jorgarn across, too?"

"I fell asleep," Denae admitted sheepishly.

"It's important that you appear interested in his pleasure, too," Rayna advised.

"I thought about it this morning when I woke up," Denae told her friend. "His pole felt so nice nestled against my back and my rear. It's a very nice pole, not at all like I was led to expect."

"You saw it!" Rayna said. "I was surprised when I saw Pernice's for the first time, too. I gather Pernice is larger than most men. It was frightening."

Denae seemed puzzled.

"I believe Jorgarn must be, too," she said. "From what Souina said, I expected something much smaller than I found. But I didn't see it. Well, not completely. It was still mostly covered by his under clothing. But I would expect it to be about this large."

She held her hands a distance apart.

"Really?" Rayna said with a grin. "I would guess Pernice is about that size. I have seen others – my brother's for example. Souina has seen more than I have, though. I gathered from our conversation that most were, well, smaller than Pernice. I wonder if Souina simply has poor luck."

Denae laughed along with her friend.

"I still can't believe Jorgarn slept through everything else though," Rayna continued. "I'll bet he was surprised this morning."

"He awoke last night and he didn't want to leave," Denae said happily. "He said there was nothing unclean about me and that he hoped I didn't send him away whenever he has bleeding. Then he lay down behind me and rubbed my hair until I fell asleep. I swear, I didn't move until it was light outside."

"Truly?" Rayna asked with interest.

"It appears that things are moving apace," Denae said. "I believe it won't be long until he's willing to battle the Creator herself for me."

"It will make your life as Queen easier," Rayna pointed out. "But just be careful that you keep the upper hand."

"I admit it was nice to have him with me last night," Denae confessed.

"I can't wait to sleep beside Pernice every night," Rayna said wistfully as she helped Denae fasten her gown. "We have managed to sneak away a few times but it is so blissful to wake up with his arms around me. But, we must end talk of such things. You are to meet the young aristocrats who seek to join your entourage."

Rayna's voice held her disdain.

"Well, many are going to be quite disappointed," Denae said. "I have already selected two of the three spots."

"Really?" Rayna asked.

"Oh, yes," Denae remarked. "One was a given. My uncle Torbert's daughter, Usala, is 13 this year. She will have one spot. The other will go to Lady Eslada's ward, Bralan. You've met her."

Rayna looked at her friend sharply.

"I would suggest you look elsewhere for your second choice, Your Highness," she offered cautiously as she adopted the court presence she would be expected to use during the day. "Bralan asks many questions about Jorgarn and she might pose a rival for his affections. I have seen him speaking to her many times. Additionally, I believe she wishes to be a candidate for the Noble Guard."

Denae smiled warmly at her friend.

"Oh, I know about her feelings toward Jorgarn," she admitted. "But thank you for your candor. I am also aware of Jorgarn's feelings toward her. Since Eslada has taken in Bralan and Drosset, just as she accepted Jorgarn, he views her in a sisterly fashion. He has Drosset working with Merg down at the training facility. It is quite cute.

"This will be announced in a few weeks but father plans to re-grant the Wesring lands in Eslada's name. So Bralan is potentially the heiress to a Ladyship. But that is decades away since Eslada is so young. Her entrance into the Noble Guard is likely two years away. She may stay with my entourage if she wishes. I have come to like her and admire her. Although I will make certain that she doesn't not get her hands on my Knight, I plan to speak to her and Eslada after our morning meal."

-------

The week leading up to the Ascension Ceremony had been a revelation for Denae.

Everywhere she went people flocked to see her. A large crowd had gathered outside the dress shop where she went for the final fitting on the gown she would wear.

They broke into cheers as she departed.

A pregnant woman who worked in the castle had asked for her to bless the unborn baby in the woman's womb – and had vowed to name the child Denae if it were a girl.

At first, Denae wasn't sure how she should act. She wanted to interact with the commoners but some of them were downright frightening to her.

Her trusted friend Rayna put it into perspective.

"They love you," Rayna explained. "You are the future of the country. You are their future. There is nothing many of these people wouldn't do for you. You are powerful now, perhaps even more powerful than your father. Did you see the crowds that gathered on the street today? They came to see you. They stopped whatever it was they were doing in order to be near to you. Your father and Sir Torbert can go wherever they please and no one even notices. They have no idea who Jorgarn Elmwood even is and they probably wouldn't like him if they did.

"But they adore you. You need to use that to your advantage."

The nobles were the same way. Every single family with an unmarried son brought him forth. If wasn't heir to the Lordship, perhaps he could catch the eye of one of the Princess' many admirers. There were worse things in the world for a third or fourth son than a match with a young woman who had the Princess' favor.

Denae found she had come to enjoy the adulation. The men she encountered had told her how beautiful and graceful she was. The woman had complimented her on her style and flair. The noble families had brought extravagant gifts for her, ranging from a fine pure-bred mare from the Wanner family to an antique gold tea set from the Peths.

The Symington mess had ruined all that. After the facts came to light Denae was no longer permitted to roam the capital without a guard. Even the nobility she came in contact with had been screened carefully by Torbert and the Noble Guard.

If Denae had to go somewhere in the capital, Jorgarn was never far away from her. His scowl had put an end to the spontaneous crowds. A simple glare from him could stop the most arrogant nobleman from approaching.

She found that there were times that she wished Jorgarn would go away. Then he would do something incredibly sweet – such as holding her close when she felt her worst – and she hoped he would stay by her side forever.

-------

Torbert sat across from Jorgarn as he went over the maps again with Lippit. Jorgarn seemed relatively at ease with the situation, which troubled Torbert to a certain extent. When Lippit had left the room, he spoke.

"You seem confident," Torbert said. "Exercise caution that you do not become overconfident. You truly have no idea what you will find there."

Jorgarn peered at his elder and mentor for a moment before he responded.

"I know of only two dozen men who Pietro could possibly enlist in this," he said. "Of those 24, at least eight have too much sense to join. I would gather that the force we face will range from 10 to 15 men, certainly no more than 15. No two of the men would be a match for any man I'm taking with me. No three of the men would be a match for me or Pernice. I would doubt any four could contain Melodart or Gorin. There are two spots that have periodically been used to ambush traders and merchants. They are the only two overlooks on the road to the manor. I expect to face a maximum of eight men and a minimum of five at the dock. Most of those will flee when they see our numbers.

"We are not facing an army, Torbert. We are facing thieves, pickpockets and brigands. They get their way by stealth or sheer force of numbers. They will not stand and fight – any more than Pietro will stand and fight when he sees me. We outclass them in training, weaponry and armor. Melodart makes chain mail. He brought his entire store across with us. Longview has no need of mail armor. It is wooded so leather and shorter weapons work better. The hardened leather will repel a knife edge or even a short sword. It will not stand up to a long sword. Seni will provide more information on what we face once we get there. We'll adjust the plan as needed once we have more intelligence. It's why Lippit is crucial to this endeavor. Honestly, I doubt we'll meet much resistance – either in Longview or in Domita."

"Will your men fight?" Torbert asked. "No one in your group has seen battle. Even Melodart and Gorin have never killed another man that I know of. Their mettle will be tested."

"They will respond appropriately," Jorgarn said. "Pernice and I will do most if not all of the killing. Pernice has killed before and I am willing to, if the need arises. I would prefer not to, obviously, and it is not something that I relish. But I'm certain I can do it if I am required to. I also believe that all those with me understand why we are going and what is at stake. I don't believe any will hesitate."

Torbert nodded.

"What about in Domita?" he asked. "What do you expect to find there?"

Jorgarn chuckled grimly.

"I would not be surprised if they are, in fact, dead by this time," he said. "Pietro does not play well with others and he is reluctant to share the spoils of his ill-gotten gains. He, too, has killed before. But he will not face a man when he kills him. Or at least he never has. He tends to sneak up behind them or attack them while they sleep. If we are forced to enter Domita, it will be through an unguarded border. Both are principalities of the Empire and free travel is permitted. Unless I am gravely mistaken, the family's dwelling will be about a 10-minute walk through the forest. I anticipate limited resistance. Domita, like Longview and Emertland, has no standing army. At most, we will face a few ill-trained retainers."

Torbert assessed the information.

"And if your father insists Eslada remain in Longview?" Torbert inquired.

"Lord Longview is in no position to make demands," Jorgarn said evenly. "He lives only because you have chosen to keep his region's part in this plot from the Emperor. The same is true with the ruling family of Domita. They cannot really complain because to do so would result in their immediate, painful deaths. If Eslada chooses to remain in Longview, I will not force her to return. If she wishes to return to Emertland, she will return to Emertland. There is no question of that fact. I do, however, wish she could be convinced to stay here until I have this mess cleared up."

Torbert relaxed and laughed.

"I'm certain you do," he said. "Keep in mind that Eslada is a lawful citizen of Emertland and, as such, is under your protection if her life is in imminent peril. It is your duty as a Knight to ensure her safety when your principal charge is safe."

"I have read that in the diaries I've been given," Jorgarn said. "If the Emperor were to learn of the plot hatched by the heir to Longview, I deem Lady Eslada would be in grave danger and I would do anything in my power to remove her."

"Well then, all we need to do now is get ready for our evening meal," Torbert replied.

-------

Jorgarn stopped in his tracks outside the family dining area of the castle. The noise from inside was far too much for such a small group. It wasn't the sounds of an argument or a disagreement. Instead it was the peals of girlish laughter and the sound of many voices holding separate conversations.

When he stepped through the doorway, he saw why.

Not only was the King and his family in the dining area but Eslada was there with her wards and Sir Torbert with his wife and two daughters, Usala and Astid. The small dining area was actually quite cramped with 10 people standing around. Jorgarn doubted the table would be able to support so many people.

King Landor and Torbert were standing off to the side with Drosset. Batrix and Eslada were in another corner with Queen Lorida while Princess Denae seemed to be holding court with Usala, Astid, who was 11, and Bralan.

Jorgarn immediately made his way to the other males in the room.

"Ah, Torbert," Landor said with a nudge of his brother's ribs. "I see you've sent for reinforcements. Good thinking. We are still outnumbered though, aren't we Drosset?"

The small boy looked up at the King with wide eyes. He was still getting used to be treated as a person and to have the King himself speak to him was amazing to the small gentleman.

"Yes, Your Highness," Drosset said. He crept closer to Jorgarn as soon as the young man stopped.

"I am smart enough to flee a battle I know I cannot win," Jorgarn said with a smile. "I had assumed you three were, too. Alas, my faith is shaken."

Torbert laughed and watched as Jorgarn surveyed the flocks of women on the other sides of the room.

"Perhaps I could make a suggestion?" Jorgarn offered.

"By all means," Landor replied. "Any suggestion you might have would be better than anything we've thought of."

"I think it would do the landing party a world of good to dine with Your Majesty and their Captain tonight," Jorgarn said while sneaking furtive glances at the rest of the room. He had the sneaking suspicion that at least three sets of eyes had landed on him from the other groups. "And, of course, Master Drosset and I would have to come along for security purposes."

Jorgarn put his hand on the small boy's shoulder.

"He's taken to the short sword training as quickly as Merg did," Jorgarn said with a smile of pride at the boy he viewed as his younger brother. "You both will be impressed."

The King's eyes brightened.

"We had thought of that," he admitted. "But now that you're here, it can be your idea. I'm glad I didn't have to provide you with it."

He elbowed Jorgarn the same way as he had Torbert earlier.

"Ladies," he said loudly. "Sir Jorgarn has informed me that the landing party that will depart in the morning would be heartened to share their evening meal with us. I believe we shall accept to show our faith and support to the men who depart in the morning. Would you prefer we invite them to the formal hall or would you prefer if the four of us went to dine with them?"

Conversation stopped immediately and Jorgarn felt Denae's accusing eyes on him. He increased the connection between then and offered a mental shrug.

"<We would never have all fit around the table, >" he thought.

"<I was going to sit on your knee, >" Denae replied in the same manner. "<I was going to hold a lottery to see who got your other knee.>"

"I would like to dine with those fine men myself, father," Denae said aloud. "Is it too late to invite them here? We can delay dinner for a time while they prepare. I believe informal would be best."

"I'll go tell them," Drosset and Jorgarn said at the same time. They looked at each other and smiled.

"Rats from a sinking ship," Torbert muttered beneath his breath. The men, who were the only ones to hear him, laughed.

"The men planned to dine in the main hall of the barracks after everyone else was finished," Jorgarn said. "I believe Master Drosset and I will head down that way and invite them up, with His Highness' permission."

He turned to Denae.

"And, of course, with milady's leave," he said. Bralan and Usala twittered but Denae simply waved her hand dismissively and returned to conversation.

"<You'll get yours, >" she thought to Jorgarn.

-------

Jorgarn and Drosset returned later with several men in tow. For many of them, it was the first foray into the family dwellings of the castle. They were somewhat in awe and their apprehension showed. Even Pernice, who was rattled by very little, appeared nervous.

Jorgarn apologized again.

"It was either drag you up here or sit down and face them alone," he said to Pernice, who was shaking his head.

Fieth, Renoit and Lippit were looking around as though they were in a holy temple. The members of the Emertland Guard looked as if they might be headed to the gallows.

Jorgarn came to a halt a distance away from the entrance.

"Everyone, relax," he said. "We will go in as a group and we will sit as a group. We will eat and accept the well wishes of the Royal Household and then we will go about our way. None of them bite and none of them will cut off your hand if you drop your dining utensils. Just try not to swear and everything will be fine. Believe me, I was in the same boat as you a few weeks ago and I made it through relatively unscathed."

The men chuckled lightly and they headed down the final passageway to the formal dining room. As soon as he entered, Jorgarn realized he had lied to his charges. The room was packed. Any of the Emertland Guard who had girlfriends attached to the palace found them waiting for them – most looking as nervous as the Guards – clustered around Rayna.

"Cläda," Jorgarn mumbled. He turned to his group.

"I didn't know," he said. "I promise, I did not know this was happening."

"<I told you that you'd get yours, >" Denae said in his head. "<Now take your own advice and relax. It will be OK. We have it all planned out.>"

Denae and Rayna swept across the room and greeted the men by name. Their girlfriends or their partner for the evening led the man to a chair and sat beside him. Usala, Astid and Bralan sat with Lippit, Renoit and Fieth and Eslada accompanied Melodart and Gorin to chairs on either side of her. Drosset sat between Bralan and Jorgarn, who was seated beside Denae, of course.

Rather than press the cooks into extra duty, dinner was a mixture of hot and cold foods but no one minded. The conversation seemed to flow easily and the nervous energy that had permeated the room gradually receded and genial and friendly voices filled the air.

When dinner had closed, the King drew everyone's attention.

"It has been almost two decades since an Emertland soldier has been forced into battle," he said with a glance toward Torbert, Gorin and Melodart. "It has been almost a century since a legion of soldiers has taken up arms in defense of the Crown. It has been 131 years since Emertland has sent soldiers to a foreign land to do battle. We do so now only with the greatest reluctance, not because we doubt our men capable of the task before them but because we have come to relish peace. We did not seek this action. We did not precipitate the violence that will come. But we will do what we must to protect those we care for and the freedoms we have come to love. May the Creator be with you all on your journey and may all of you share this table again upon your return."

The men shouted their appreciation.

"For the King!" they cheered. "For the Crown! For Emertland!"

The Royal Household – and Sir Torbert and Lady Eslada – thanked each man as they left for volunteering their services. The King had made chambers available in the castle for the men but few availed themselves of the hospitality.

But Jorgarn saw Rayna leading Pernice off down the corridor before he turned to find his way to his own chambers.

-------

Jorgarn had barely crossed the threshold to his sitting room when Denae appeared from her chamber. Jorgarn had no idea how she had managed to make it there before him, but she had.

"I moved your armor to the chamber we share now," Denae said with a shy smile. "We are both of age and we may share quarters if we chose. I hope you will agree."

Jorgarn nodded but didn't speak.

"You still have a bed of your own," Denae said with a laugh. "You can go in there and sharpen your sword or do whatever it is you do when I'm busy with important things."

She walked across the room and took Jorgarn's hand and clutched it tightly to her chest.

"Last night," she said before she faltered. "Last night meant more to me than you can possibly know. A woman feels her worst when her egg time comes. She feels dirty. She feels heavy. She feels as though she is cursed. To know that you understood what I was thinking and you disagreed with me strongly enough to stay and hold me, it meant so much. To know you go off tomorrow and face battle on my behalf..."

Tears fell on her cheeks as she buried her head on Jorgarn's shoulder for a moment before pulling back.

"To know that you will be by my side for the rest of our lives fills me with wonder," Denae continued. "To know that every morning for the rest of our lives, I can wake up beside you, to greet the day by kissing you good morning and to end the day by kissing you good night. I ask that you wear a token of my affection for you and so you know that I will be waiting anxiously for your return from Longview and the start to our future together. But tonight I want to show you just how much I care about you and how much I have come to appreciate all it is you do for me."

She pulled Jorgarn toward the chamber he supposed they now shared. As soon as he was in far enough to close the door, she locked it and pulled him down for a long kiss.

"Last night you helped me gain release," she said as she stepped back and turned her back to him. "After you help me out of this gown, I will undress you and make certain you take fond memories of me with you to Longview."

Jorgarn felt his hands shaking as he unclasped the buttons on Denae's gown. When the last one was done, she stepped forward let it fall to the floor. She stood before him in a tiny chemise and her lower clothes. The chemise joined her gown on the floor moments later.

Taking Jorgarn's hand, she pulled him to their bed and gently pushed him onto it. Denae pulled his boots off and then his stockings. She straddled his lap while she lifted his tunic over his head then kissed him firmly and deeply. Her tongue seemed to be tracing a pattern on his. He felt her firm breasts and pointed nipples on his chest before she slid backward and reached for the clasp on his trousers. Jorgarn noticed Denae's hands were trembling too. He wondered if it was in anticipation or fright.

She looked up as she sensed his thoughts and smiled.

"Anticipation," she said. "I have been looking forward to this all day, since this morning, in fact."

She took Jorgarn's hands and pulled him forward until he was standing. His trousers fell and pooled at his feet. Denae crouched down and lifted one foot out and then the other. Then she reached up and lowered his small clothes until Jorgarn stood before her, embarrassed and naked.

Her soft hand reached out and touched his hardened lower flesh. Indescribable sensations raced through Jorgarn's body.

"I have learned that there are many ways to please a man and still remain pure," Denae said. Her breathing was becoming as rapid as Jorgarn's. "Tonight, we shall try most of them."

Denae leaned her head forward and, hesitating only a second, put her warm mouth around the head of Jorgarn's member. The tongue that was tracing circles in his mouth moments early now repeated the trick.

"Denae, please," Jorgarn pleaded. "I won't be able to stop myself. You must stop."

Denae sucked harder in response.

"I don't want you to stop yourself," she said before replacing her mouth on his swelling stalk. Her small hand worked the shaft up and down until Jorgarn could control himself no longer. He spilled his seed into Denae's warm, waiting mouth.

Rayna had told Denae to cup the testicles so she would know when Jorgarn was ready to release and wasn't surprised when he started. But the quantity that spilled into her mouth caught her slightly off guard. She swallowed quickly and the second and third spurts landed on her naked breasts, creating a warm sensation in Denae's nether regions.

The moisture on the cloth between her legs was more than blood by this point, she was certain. She replaced her mouth on Jorgarn's organ to catch the rest of his spend. The first salvo had slipped off her tongue and down her throat before she could get much sense of it – how it tasted, what it felt like. Denae decided it wasn't the best thing she'd ever tasted but it was far from the worst. Given the reaction and obvious feeling of satisfaction and relaxation that Jorgarn radiated, Denae would gladly put up with the rather odd consistency and bland but salty taste.

Denae glanced up and saw Jorgarn's expression as he gazed down up on her, on her knees with his member regaining its hardness as she continued to lick and suckle on the tip. A feeling of warmth spread across Denae's groin again. She longed to plunge her fingers beneath her blood cloth and touch that special spot for just a moment. She longed to push Jorgarn back on the bed and mount him.

Jorgarn sensed Denae's frustration as well as another emotion radiating across their connection – lust. He gently pulled the young woman to her feet and leaned forward to kiss her. She hesitated for a moment before opening her mouth to allow him access. After all, she had just accepted his seed into her mouth. She tensed when she felt his hand sliding over her breasts, wet with Jorgarn's spend, and down her stomach. Denae gasped when his fingers went into her lower clothes and found the spot at the top of her womanly place. Just like the night before, the feeling of having someone else touch her was far different than when she had touched herself.

Jorgarn did his best to imitate the motions he had seen Denae use the night before. He rubbed gently but insistently on a little rise just beneath where her soft hair ended. Denae's reaction and the sensations that flooded through her told him he had found the right spot.

"There, there," Denae whispered in a hoarse, throaty voice. "Do it there. Just like that, my love."

The sounds deteriorated to unintelligible garble as Denae came closer to her release and turned into a soft mewl when she arrived. She pressed her lips to Jorgarn's fiercely to muffle the sound and her legs would no longer hold her.

Jorgarn used his free hand to cup Denae's rear and lift her effortless to him. She wrapped her legs around his waist, trapping his hand against her wetness. Jorgarn could feel the coldness of his drying seed mixed with the warmness of her skin against his. Denae had her head buried on his shoulder.

"I love you so much," she whispered. "I will always love you. Please don't forget that. I will always love you and I will forever remember this night."

Jorgarn laid Denae on the bed and managed to extricate his neck from her arms and his arms from her lower clothes. He had expected to find his finger and perhaps even his entire hand covered with blood but there was only the slightest trace on his fingernails.

He walked to the privacy chamber and wet a cloth. He wished he had known what was about to transpire. He would have heated some water. He took in the sight on the bed as he walked back across the room.

Denae, wearing only her small bottom clothes and smile, was eyeing him as he crossed the floor. Her gaze was fixed below his waist to his member, which had stiffened again and was jutting in front of him. Her hand reached out for it almost automatically when he approached the bed. She caressed it gently, felt below the member to his sac, which she gently cupped and fondled. She gasped slightly when she felt the wet cloth on her chest and looked down to see her small, firm breasts covered in the remnants of Jorgarn's ejaculation.

She laughed at the sight. It had smeared all across her body when she had pressed tightly to Jorgarn and she had left a trail of his seed from his stomach to his shoulders when he had lifted her.

"You need that more than I do," she said, her voice still quavering slightly. She leaned forward and licked the tip of Jorgarn's organ, which was produced a clear, thinner liquid from her ministrations.

"When your egg time is over, I will return the favor to you," he whispered as Denae's mouth engulfed the head of his member again. He felt her pull backward and heard her sigh before he felt her tongue lick from the tip of his organ to his sac.

"You needn't," she replied. She had asked Rayna if men did the same to woman as women did to men. Rayna had said it was rare to find a man who would do it willingly but she had heard of men who did.

Jorgarn had heard tales of licking a woman down below. He had even seen a drawing of two women doing it with each other once.

"If you can do that for me," Jorgarn said as he turned the wet rag to his own chest once Denae had lain back in the bed, "I will certainly do that for you. I have heard of what you did and I know men do it back. I think I would enjoy it, if you do."

"Your finger felt lovely," Denae said as she put her head on his shoulder and returned to stroking his erection. "Absolutely indescribably lovely. The stories do not do it justice."

Jorgarn tilted Denae's lips upward for a kiss. He had a wide smile when he pulled back.

"I believe I finally understand the phrase 'Karida dä, '" he said with a laugh.

He regretted the joke when Denae's hand stopped what it was doing below his waist and covered her mouth instead. He pulled her small hand away and kissed her gently.

"I will not complain," Jorgarn said. "If you do not complain when I do it to you."

He could not help himself in the privacy chamber. He had brought his fingertips to nose and noticed a musky, heady scent on them. He tentatively had placed his index finger in his mouth, expecting the coppery, metallic taste of blood. Instead it tasted different, almost sweet.

Denae picked up on Jorgarn's thoughts across their link.

"You were not disgusted to touch me there?" she asked.

"Not in the least," Jorgarn answered. "It was exciting for me. It made me feel very happy to know you enjoyed it. There was very little mess."

"There is more now, I'm afraid," Denae said as she rose from the bed and moved to gather a fresh cloth for her belt. She crossed back and kissed Jorgarn fiercely again. "I told you I learned many ways to please my man. I will show you more when I return."

Jorgarn noticed Denae's tiny rear moved in a most exciting manner as he watched her cross the floor. The night held great promise indeed.

-------

The longboat manned by Seni and his company slid alongside the Latavit a few miles from Longview's main dock. Jorgarn spotted a grim-faced Seni and his three soldiers as the boat was pulled to its moorings.

"It was as you said it would be, Sir," Seni reported. "There appear to be ambushes set up here and here."

He pointed to the map Lippit had spread across the captain's table.

"Each had three men," Seni continued. "This one now has only two."

He pointed to the first ambush site then glanced up at Jorgarn.

"We captured one night before last," he said. "He gave us much information before he drowned in a creek. There are 12 men total. Six were stationed at the ambush sites. Six more are set to meet the coach. They do not know who is arriving, only that the coach will either be delivered to them or they are to take it by force. The man didn't seem very happy when I informed him that you were the one in charge of guarding the carriage. In fact, he took the first opportunity to run away – in the opposite direction, I might add. Unfortunately, he fell into a stream and drowned. We found his body last night."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I have names if they mean anything to you," Seni continued as he pulled a piece of parchment out of his cloak. "The Wallid brothers – all three of them, Stemit, Rantic ... Here, you can read it for yourself."

"I can probably name them down the list," Jorgarn said. "They are all outlaws, men who are still alive only because they claim affiliation with my brother. They prey on the weak and helpless – kidnapping, theft. I've heard there are men from this area involved in a slave market with one of the lands to the south. The man you captured, what was his name?"

"Ellotid," Seni replied.

Jorgarn pursed his lips in displeasure.

"These men will do one of two things," Jorgarn said as he looked around the room. "They will flee at the sight of our numbers or they will fight to the death. Gentlemen, make no mistake. If these men engage you in combat, it will be to the death of either you or him. He will not surrender because surrender means the gallows. Make certain it his death and not yours."

Seni raised his hand to speak again.

"If you can give us an hour's head start, we can row back to shore and clean out the ambush site here," he said pointing at the one with only two attackers left. "It is closer from here actually than the other. The second can be reached quicker overland. We scouted both sites last night. But there is more, Sir."

Seni looked at one of his men.

"Ronac speaks Longview very well," he continued. "Tell Sir Jorgarn what you heard this morning."

Ronac gulped.

"Sir, I heard talk this morning of a coup at the palace last night," he said. "Your father might well be dead. I'm sorry, Sir."

Ronac feared how Jorgarn would take the news. He considered how he would feel if he found out his father had been killed because he was late arriving to save him.

"I suspected that would be the case," Jorgarn said. "It doesn't change our plan. We had already seen the need to surround the manor regardless of who resided there. Thank you, Ronac. Are you certain the coup was successful? We sent a warning letter to Lord Longview several weeks ago."

"No, Sir," Ronac said, puzzled by Jorgarn's calloused reaction to the news. "I am not sure. I heard two men talking about a coup but neither was certain of the outcome. They seemed resigned to the fact that your brother had taken over."

"Well, we can hope Lord Longview heeded our warning and took the necessary precautions," Jorgarn said offhandedly. "If he didn't, it is hardly our fault. Seni, take your men and follow the plan. Take out the ambush but be careful not to alert the second group. Then meet us back at the dock. I will give you three hours. Will that suffice?"

"More than enough time," Seni said. "It will take us 20 minutes to get to shore, fifteen more to get to the ambush site. Figure 10 minutes to get rid of the attackers. I estimate it will take us no more than 35 minutes to reach the port. We might be there before the ship is fully docked. I'll signal you if we are."

Jorgarn nodded and handed across four heavy bundles.

"Will these present problems in the boat?" he asked. "Or on your journey?"

Seni opened the first bundle and saw a chain mail shirt and head covering along with a green overlay.

"The boat is designed for 12 men, Sir," Seni replied. "We can leave these hidden at the turn to town. It will pose no problems. Thank you for thinking of us, Sir."

Jorgarn brushed off the thanks.

"I want every man protected," he said. "Those are designed to be worn over the leather armor. It might be a little hot but it will be worth it if battle comes. Please have these on before you arrive in the town."

Seni nodded and motioned to his three men to follow him back the longboat.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 19



The Latavit docked at Longview's main port just before the sun hit its highest point in the sky. The day was chilly – by Emertland standards – but the sky was clear. Jorgarn, adorned in his mail shirt and blue overlay, walked down the gangway with Pernice, also in mail but with a blood red overlay. Neither man wore his chain head covering. Each wanted the crowd that assembled at the port to see him. Most recognized Jorgarn immediately but even those who didn't took a step backward as the two imposing figures walked forward – hands on the hilt of their swords.

"Jorgarn," one whispered. "The rumor of the coup must be true. He has come to avenge his father."

A harsh look from Jorgarn silenced the whispers. Two men on the right side, hidden in the shadow of a building, recognized the Lord's second son and understood fully that whatever they had been sent to do wasn't worth dying for. They turned to flee only to run into two men with drawn swords. Each man was wearing chain mail from head to waist. One had a green cover over it and the other wore red.

"I think not," one said in passable Longview. "Let's have those hands, gentlemen."

The two would-be assailants quickly presented their hands forward where Seni bound them with rope. A quick search revealed each man carried a short sword but no metal armor or buckler. They would have lasted about a heartbeat in a battle with either Jorgarn or Pernice. On the other side of the street a similar scene developed. This time Ronac and his partner saw two men having a heated conversation about the best way to attack and took the decision out of their hands.

Ronac slipped his sword around the neck of the first man and the second man turned to flee and wound up almost skewering himself on an Emertland Guard's drawn sword. The fact that the man facing him already had blood on his hands was not lost on the potential attacker, who quickly surrendered.

Down the center of the street, the situation was different. The two assailants, expecting help from the flanks, strode purposefully toward Jorgarn and Pernice. They knew the man standing with Jorgarn was supposed to do the hard work – by turning on the Lord's son. So they were surprised when both men charged forward with their swords in their hands.

The knives that the assailants carried would be no match for the long swords but each man knew his fate was sealed either way. Jorgarn would kill them on the dock or hang them once he had disposed of Pietro and assumed the Lordship. A glance at the other told both men they agreed: they stood a better chance in armed combat than swinging from a hangman's rope.

It turned out the odds were about the same.

The man on Pernice's side met his charge and lost his hand with Pernice's first attack. The man's head was gone with the backswing. The second attacker saw the luck of his friend and came to a quick halt. He flung the knife in his hand at Jorgarn, who continued to move swiftly toward him.

The attacker was appalled when the knife struck Jorgarn in the chest but bounced off. It did leave a nasty gash on his unprotected left arm, though. The man's eyes widened as Jorgarn continued his charge and only belatedly did his mind tell him to run.

Jorgarn caught the man by the back of his long hair and pulled him roughly backward to the ground. The man saw the menace on Jorgarn's face as Jorgarn put this sword over the man's heart and thrust it downward, ending his life.

Without so much as a backward glance, Jorgarn turned and let out a loud whistle – the signal for his company of men to form on him and for the ship's crew to start walking the blinkered horses off the ship.

Jorgarn expected absolute chaos from the horses but they walked sedately down the plank as though they hadn't spent 22 hours on a ship rolling all the time. Jorgarn made a mental note to inform King Landor of how well his groomsmen had trained the animals.

Once the horses had been brought forward, the seven strongest men on the crew lowered the carriage down the plank. Four horses were attached to the coach. Only then did Gorin and Fieth escort Lady Eslada, who had thankfully accepted the need for caution with grace, down the walkway. She surveyed the four men with their hands and feet bound and the crowd that formed around the fallen attackers. She noticed both Jorgarn and Pernice had blood covering their tunics. It wasn't until her second pass did Eslada notice the wide cut on Jorgarn's bicep. It was all Gorin could do to keep her from racing the rest of the way to the dock.

Jorgarn stepped forward to open the carriage door for Fieth and Gorin, who decided they would stay behind to protect Eslada during the initial foray then switch places with Melodart and Renoit and be part of the team that went to Domita.

Jorgarn had debated leaving Eslada aboard the ship while he inspected the manor but she insisted she might as well come first as opposed to later.

"If Wenta is dead, Pietro will die soon enough," she reasoned. "There is no need to delay the trip to Domita while you send someone back here for me."

She agreed to wait at Gorin's house, which was only a short trip from the manor but relatively hidden, while Jorgarn and the rest of the group descended upon the manor.

"Lippit, you handle the coach," Jorgarn instructed. "You have the most experience at things like that. If we find trouble, you turn immediately and get Eslada back on board. Do not tarry and do not wait to see how the battle turns out. The first sign of trouble, you four come back here to safety. The captain is making ready to return to sea as we speak. He will leave port immediately if you return. Do you understand?"

Lippit tilted his head.

"May I make a suggestion, Sir Jorgarn?" he asked. He really wasn't sure his input would be welcome from the look on Jorgarn's face.

"Of course," came the reply.

"If we run into trouble, I suggest that we turn the carriage around and take it to safety," he said. "But as soon as Lady Eslada is safe, I turn it over to Fieth and come back to join the battle. I believe I will be useful to you on your trip to Domita."

"Don't undersell your value in other areas, Master Lippit," Jorgarn said with a small smile. "Yes, that is a better plan but please ensure Lady Eslada is safely away before you stop."

Lippit agreed readily and the group set off toward the manor at a trot – their four captives secured to the back of the carriage and forced to run behind it.

After a few minutes travel, Jorgarn called a halt. They had passed the first ambush site without incident and would reach the second in a few minutes.

"Melodart, take your team and secure the area in front of us, if you would," Jorgarn commanded.

"Prisoners?" Melodart asked.

Jorgarn did not hesitate before answering.

"No," he said. "You may save me the cost of a rope if you choose."

He knew from the list Seni had given him that those left unaccounted for would battle to the end. They had placed their entire future on the success of Pietro's plan. There was no going back for them now that it had failed.

Melodart gave a grim nod and headed off to take care of the would-be assailants at the second spot on the map. It was only then that Gorin stuck his head out of the window of the carriage to gain Jorgarn's attention.

"Lady Eslada would like to speak to you," he said. Jorgarn gave a look of disgust but walked back to the carriage.

"Let me see your arm," Eslada insisted. "Now!"

Jorgarn glanced down at his ripped tunic and at the blood that was flowing down his arm and onto the ground. He had been around Eslada long enough to know she would have her way or he would never hear the end of it.

Eslada took a clean piece of cloth and wet it with water from a flask to clean the wound. She gasped when she saw the jagged cut that ran from Jorgarn's bicep to the inside of his elbow.

"Creator!" she said as she reached back inside the carriage and produced another flask. "There is no telling what he used that knife for beforehand. I planned to give this to Wenta but I'm sure he will understand. It's Emerti brandy. It will clean the wound."

She poured a generous portion over Jorgarn's arm. She knew it would hurt terribly but she noticed only a slight twitch from Jorgarn's left eye when the alcohol entered the open wound.

"You can admit this hurts," Eslada chided. "No one will think less of you."

"Says the woman who called me a baby for crying when I had a similar sized cut in my leg a few years ago," Jorgarn replied with a slight smile.

"It was not similar in the least," Eslada said quickly. "This is from a dirty knife. That was from a briar patch. You cried like you severed a limb."

"I was eight years old," Jorgarn pointed out.

"Yes, well, I was new at being around children," Eslada admitted with embarrassment. "I was barely more than a child myself."

"So when Drosset comes to you with an injury, you'll kiss it better," Jorgarn joked.

Eslada's eyes narrowed. Jorgarn had seen that look before many times.

"No," she said. "I'll probably call him a baby and tell him the story about how his uncle Jorgarn once almost lost his arm in battle and acted as though nothing happened."

They shared a laugh and Jorgarn took a deep breath.

"That does hurt quite a lot," he confessed. "Actually, it hurts more now than it did before you cured me. Thanks so much."

"It would hurt far more when you got an infection and lost your whole arm," Eslada said.

"Or when you lost so much blood you passed out and fell off your horse," Gorin chimed in.

"But it won't hurt as much as it will when the Princess sees you've gotten blood all over her scarf," Fieth said. He had stayed out of the conversation until it was clear that no one was angry. "You will be glad you still have that arm to protect yourself from her."

Jorgarn glanced at the pale blue scarf Denae had given him to wear into battle. Apparently it was tradition for a woman to give her champion a memento before he departed. Now it was covered in blood from the man who attacked him and in Jorgarn's own from where he had adjusted his armor with his bloody hand.

"Not to mention this nice vestment," Jorgarn said. "I told Sir Torbert it was silly to give such nice bright targets to enemy archers but apparently it is tradition. You know, Gorin, Emertland is going to have to give some serious thought to allowing some of its traditions to fall by the wayside. Individual projectile weapons weren't really in vogue the last time it fought a war. Nor does it make much sense to me to appoint valued men as my successors and lose them to any engagement. But who am I to argue? It just seems a bit odd that no one seems to realize that things that made sense 400 years ago might not make sense now. It seems especially silly to ensure that I am the first one targeted by giving me a different color from the rest of you. It would be difficult to select whom to target from those in red and those in green. But with only one in blue, well, I know who would see the brunt of my arrows."

Gorin laughed but nodded his head.

"So many of our laws and ceremonies are based on what was done in the past," he said. "It will take time to change the ones that need changed. In truth, it has been so long since we've needed to look at the way we handle our military affairs that it has never been a priority. But I see your point and I agree with you. When we put down the rules regarding the Seconds, it was a different era. The castle was subject to siege and apt to be overrun during a war. It made sense that someone was responsible for the safety of the Monarch and the Heir. Travel was more arduous. We walked everywhere we wanted to go before we learned to train horses.

"The Knight and his Seconds protected the Monarch against assassins, brigands and the plain, ordinary malcontent. During war, the Knights had duties to the Guard and needed to stay behind. Back then, the Knights were the only officers attached to the guard. The Monarch's Knight was the Captain, just like now. But his role was to plan the engagement and oversee the battle. The Heir's Knight was second in command. He led the charge. Everyone else was a soldier. Now you have First Class, Second Class, Third Class, Sergeants, Lieutenants and I'm sure I'm missing others. It makes more sense to delegate your Guard responsibilities to others and secure the safety of your charge yourself. Likewise with the code of dress. In old days, it set you apart as a rallying point for your troops. Now it sets you apart as a target. We will have to bring this up before Tribunal and point out the flaws in the system."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"It has been tried before a number of times," he said. "It takes a unanimous vote to change these things. It is not a simple majority. There is always someone who insists the old ways are the best ways. In this Tribunal, I suspect it will be Sir Torbert. That appears to be the role the Senior Knight takes in these matters. If he is unable to do it himself because of politics, he speaks privately to one of the others and they assume the role. From what I've read, it is a maddening process that has about as much hope for success as Pietro become Emperor of Swar."

"That slight, huh?" Eslada chimed in with a laugh. "Well, you are nothing if not persistent. Keep at them and pretty soon they'll give in just so you'll go away. I believe that is how you came to be allowed to train your own horses, if I'm not mistaken."

"When will you be moving from the castle?" Jorgarn asked with a twinkle of affection in his eye. "There are some stories that simply are best left untold."

"Those are the ones I told first," Eslada said with the same look on her face. "It's only fair. I'm sure Torbert and Landor have regaled you with stories of my young adulthood. I am simply returning the favor."

Jorgarn bowed his head in surrender and the occupants of the carriage broke out in laughter. It died down when Jorgarn held up a hand for silence.

"Be aware," he said to his men. "There is movement in the woods ahead of us. Lippit, turn the coach around now, please."

Lippit complied without a word and the men-at-arms took up their positions. Melodart and his men came out of the woods a moment later.

He had an unreadable look on his face.

"Those men were drunk," he said. "We heard them 50 paces before we saw them. One was asleep. The other two were arguing. You could have sent Merg to dispatch them."

The next stop came a few minutes past the second ill-fated ambush site – the turn to Gorin's farm.

Melodart took Lippit and two less-seasoned woodsmen to sneak through the creek bed and into position behind the manor, which lay only a short distance ahead.

Seni and his squad, minus Ronac, took off to circle around and approach the manor from the east. Ronac took two men to approach from the west.

Jorgarn, Pernice and Renoit took their horses along the main passage toward the manor from the south. The prisoners were tied by the hands to the saddles.

-------

Denae was lost in her thoughts when Rayna, Usala and Bralan entered. Another young woman followed behind them meekly.

Denae had been reliving the last night she had spent with Jorgarn. Sleep had been long in coming for both of them as they took every opportunity to explore the other's body. Jorgarn had managed to bring Denae to release by licking and sucking on her sensitive breast buds. He had not hesitated to put his hands beneath her blood clothes twice more to gently stroke and rub her sensitive spot.

Her last memory of the night was of Jorgarn gently washing her body with a warm rag and announcing an area clean with a series of kisses across her skin. She smiled unconsciously at the thought and recalled bringing him to release with her fingers and mouth when he had awoken at dawn to leave for the ship.

There had been several people waiting on the dock for the guardsmen to depart, including several young women. Some of the women were attached to the young soldiers. Others perhaps hoped to be upon their return. All the departing soldiers carried with them a memento of a young (or in the case of Melodart and Gorin, not so young) woman from their homeland.

Denae had removed a scarf she wore in her long hair and tied it to Jorgarn's arm. Rayna had sewn a small portion of her favorite dress to the back of Pernice's tunic so he could have a part of close to his heart. She had also given him a small broach to wear on his overlay as a visible sign of her affection.

The other soldiers were offered similar objects, some from women they barely knew or did not know at all.

Most of the nobles were still in the capital. Those with children on the cusp of adulthood had stayed behind hoping their children could secure a place on Denae's or Jorgarn's royal staff. The King's closest allies stayed in a sign of solidarity. Most of Symington's supporters – with the exception of the Renoit family – had departed as soon as they could do so.

The Renoit family had stayed behind to see off their oldest son, much to the displeasure of his sister, Riset. Riset resented the attention Chicote had received from her parents. She resented the fact that Sir Jorgarn had paid scant attention to her but was often seen laughing or huddled in serious conversation with her younger brother. She resented the fact that Chicote's rise to one of Sir Jorgarn's seconds put him above her in the social pecking order at Court.

Riset Renoit elected to sleep late on the morning the Latavit departed for Longview. Thus it was a surprise to Denae to see Leyota Renoit, the youngest of the line at 11 years old, enter the chamber with the named members of her entourage after Rayna's small cough brought her back to the present.

"Well met, Mistress Leyota," Denae said as she rose.

Leyota bowed.

"Well met, Your Royal Highness," she answered.

"Enough of that," Denae insisted. "I am Denae when we are alone or among friends. Just as these young women are Rayna, Bralan and Usala. If you join our retinue we will not only work together but we will become friends."

Bralan, who knew Leyota for years, put her arm around the girl.

"Denae has had a difficult time of breaking Sir Jorgarn of the habit of calling her by her title," Bralan said as she squeezed the girl's shoulder. "It will never do if she has to do the same with you."

Leyota reddened but she nodded.

"Now, let us hear what you can contribute to my entourage," Denae said, getting down to business. "What skills do you bring?"

"None, Your... ," Leyota said. "I mean, none, Denae. I don't know why I was sent to interview. No one told me I would be speaking to you until day before yesterday. I had to wear the same dress I wore to your Ascension. I couldn't get it dirty, so I wasn't allowed to attend any of the events that followed."

Denae smiled and put her hand on the girl's, an act that startled Leyota a bit.

"Your parents have seen your brother rise in influence," she said. "They seek to take advantage of that rise by seeing if you can be placed on my staff. It will add additional prestige to your household, though I doubt it will make your sister happy. She will inherit the estate but you and Chicote will be viewed as much more important by everyone in Emertland."

Leyota's eyes widened in surprise. Riset had ordered her around for years. She treated Leyota as her own handmaiden and often told the younger girl that Leyota had better get used to being a servant because no man would ever consent to marry such an ugly girl and Riset would not support Leyota once she inherited the manor.

A small smiled crept across Leyota's face. Bralan had discussed the Renoit family dynamic with Denae prior to the interview, so the Princess understood immediately what had crossed the girl's mind.

"When do you turn 12 years?" Denae asked suddenly.

"Three months," Leyota replied glumly.

"Then I will accept you as an attendant in training for the next three months," she said. "You will live here at the castle and you will learn the strengths and weaknesses of the rest of my staff. Since you will be my junior attendant upon your 12th birthday, I will expect you to be able to assist any of them. Does this suit you?"

"You mean... ," Leyota started, filled with surprise.

"Yes, Leyota," Denae replied. "I mean you will need to make arrangements to have your belongings sent to the castle. I accept you without hesitation as a member of my staff. I will have someone draft an invitation to dinner this evening for your family. No, I will wait until Chicote has returned for the dinner. I heard your mother say they planned to stay here until he returns. For now, I believe it would be best to have my father inform your family informally. Will that create a problem? We both will be there."

"Uh, oh, no Your Highness," Leyota said nervously.

"I'm glad," Denae said as she hugged the startled girl. "This is going to be so grand! I truly believe I have the best young women from the noble houses to be my advisers and my friends. I am truly blessed that you took this interview, Leyota. Emertland is going to benefit greatly from your presence."

It would be grand, Denae decided. It would give her the opportunity to establish the pecking order at court. Riset Renoit had made several disparaging comments about Denae's large feet that had been overheard by one of the gentlemen who had sought to catch the Princess' eye. The simple act of charity toward the Renoit's youngest child would tweak the oldest daughter's nose – while still keeping the Renoit family firmly on her father's side in all important matters.

Denae caught Usala's eye.

"Could you grab Astid?" Denae asked.

"Can I shake her once I grab her?" Usala asked with a smile. "I've really wanted to since she used my best chemise to mop up something she spilled."

Denae knew Usala was joking and so did the others. Leyota, it appeared, did not seem sure. Riset had shaken her a time or two for some transgression.

"She was speaking lightly," Denae assured her. "I wanted you to meet Astid because she will join the entourage once she is of age. In fact, you can start training her next year, three months prior to her birthday. She will be the junior attendant when she is old enough."

Usala scoffed.

"She will leave your employ and join the Noble Guard," she said with a giggle as she jerked her head toward Bralan. "Just like that one. You'll get three years from Astid, tops. You'll be looking to replace Bralan in one."

"Well, that will be their decision to make when the time comes," Denae said with a wave of her hand. "I certainly will not stop them if they choose the Guard. I have already discussed their weapons training with Jorgarn. They will be prepared if they wish to join. Now, move your rear."

Usala stuck her tongue out and walked from the room with an exaggerated sway to her backside.

"Do not take lessons from that one," Denae said to Leyota, who laughed softly. "We have grown up together and she knows just how to needle me."

Bralan spoke up.

"We really will receive training," she asked, "from Jorgarn?"

Denae knew the time would come, soon she gathered, to discuss Jorgarn with Bralan – and vice versa. But now was not that time.

"From him or from someone he chooses," Denae pointed out. "Jorgarn will be quite busy over the coming months – as will we all be. We have much to learn."

Astid entered the room with a jump, as Usala had apparently tickled her sister, unseen from the doorway. Astid shot a menacing look backward, at least.

"You wished to see me, Your Highness?" she asked. Astid usually wasn't formal but she didn't really know Bralan and she didn't recognize the other girl at all.

"This is Leyota Renoit," Denae said. "She is a few months older than you but she will be joining my staff. I would like for you to show her around the castle and make sure she doesn't get lost – or wander off or make a run for it when she learns what a tyrant I am."

Denae smiled when Astid and Usala laughed aloud.

"Don't worry about her," Astid said. "She boasts but she is really easy to turn around your finger. Watch this."

Astid put on a feigned pout.

"It doesn't work if I know it's not real," Denae pointed out. "I should have permitted Usala's idea. I am beginning to regret it already. Now, shall we see if my father is free? He can summon Lord and Lady Renoit, and of course that disagreeable Riset, to the castle."

She put her arm around Leyota.

"I think I will summon the artist in residence," she said conspiratorially. "I hope he can capture the look on your sister's face when I announce that you will be a most welcome addition to my entourage."

-------

"Has Jorgarn thought of who will be his attendants?" Rayna asked as they left the King's study. The Renoits would be summoned to the castle and asked to stay for an informal dinner.

Denae laughed at Rayna's question.

"His reply was 'Why do I need attendants?'" she said. "Honestly, he has no idea and I don't think he plans to name any. He already has Merg and Drosset following him around from dawn to dusk. I'm certain they will not let him lose his sword or his tunic. I believe I will allow him to learn to delegate his responsibilities on his own. That is probably cruel of me but Jorgarn is more apt to learn from his mistakes than some men I know. Do you have a suggestion for when the inevitable time comes?"

Rayna took a deep breath.

"I was hoping he might consider my brother," Rayna said. Denae stopped suddenly.

"Do you think that is wise, Rayna?" Denae asked. "I have met your brother and I do not think badly of him. But Jorgarn is, well, let us say he is regimented. That is a kind word. If he does consent to hire someone, he will expect him to do what is necessary. I do not mean this to sound hurtful, but your brother has never struck me as that type. Jorgarn will not accept shortcuts. He will not accept sloppiness and he will not accept tardiness. I believe you have been around him enough to understand that. He will expect your brother to behave as he expects his men to behave. Will your brother agree to that? Will he be able to do it if he agrees?"

"I believe so," Rayna said, although she wasn't sure it was true. "I hope having a positive influence around him constantly will aid Haptu. He has been around Pernice enough to understand what is acceptable and what is not."

Denae pursed her lips.

"Will it cause problems between us if things do not work out between him and Jorgarn?" she asked. "If you know Jorgarn at all, you know that he will not allow my relationship with you or his friendship with Pernice to affect his decisions. He is fiercely loyal. He expects loyalty in return. And, well, you might have noticed that Jorgarn has a bit of a temper. If your brother were to, say, steal something from Jorgarn, I believe Jorgarn would dismiss him. But if your brother were to, say, steal something from the castle, I think he might wind up dead."

Rayna's face hardened.

"Yes, Haptu was convicted of thievery," she said in an irritated voice. "But my family had to eat. Our father was dead and the Tribunal said the shipping company did not have to pay because the whole ship disappeared. We could not prove that they hadn't landed somewhere wonderful and simply decided to stay. So we were left with a dozen Konec to our names. Haptu was only 14 years old when it happened and it hasn't happened since. He has been in no trouble since then."

Denae raised her eyebrows.

"He has been in a dozen fights at the tavern," Denae pointed out. "He has started many mornings in the magistrate's cell after falling asleep on the bar or the street. I know of your brother, Rayna, so there is little use in obscuring the facts. These are things that Jorgarn will not permit. Hear me, Rayna, but hear me as your friend. Jorgarn will not permit this, no more than I would. I will not stop you from making a recommendation to Jorgarn. If Haptu has grown and turned into half the person you are, Jorgarn would do well to have him. But if he still acts as he did, Haptu would do well to avoid Jorgarn's employ altogether. Please think this through and perhaps discuss it with Pernice before you decide. I think Pernice has a better understanding of Jorgarn than either you or I do."

Rayna nodded but Denae could see she wasn't pleased.

"Rayna, Jorgarn is not me," she said softly. "I look at someone and I first see their potential. Take Leyota, for instance. She is smart and trainable, so long as she no longer has to deal with that awful sister of hers. Jorgarn probably wouldn't have accepted a male in the same situation. He looks at someone and he sees their flaws first. I am willing to take a chance if there is a reasonable chance it will work out. Jorgarn is the opposite. A man must prove himself to Jorgarn first. He will give a man ample opportunity to prove himself – as you can see by those he took with him, aside from Pernice. But if Lippit or Seni fail him, he will never trust them again.

"Pernice could falter and Jorgarn would still ask him to accompany him on the next trip because Pernice has already earned Jorgarn's respect. It would take much for Pernice to lose that respect – perhaps if he was abusive toward you. Fieth and Renoit are different but it still took them time to gain Jorgarn's trust. He recognized their personalities were stilted by the influences of their parents and siblings and then by Symington. Now look at them."

"But he gave them a chance!" Rayna said. "Or is that because they are nobility?"

Denae tilted her head and spoke carefully but firmly to her friend.

"You know for a fact that it is not," she said. "To say that is ridiculous and you are being simple to suggest that. Look at you. There has been no appointment and already it is causing strife between us. How will you react if Jorgarn dismisses your brother? How will you react if he kills him? Will you leave my employ? Will you force Pernice to abandon his career with Jorgarn and the Guard? Stop being stupid, Rayna. Make your plea to Jorgarn but do not bring this up to me again. If Jorgarn asks my opinion, I'll give it. But I will not discuss your brother or Jorgarn's decisions with you further. Am I clear?"

Denae had never spoken to Rayna in this manner before. Rayna felt anger boiling inside her and she turned to leave.

"You are not dismissed," Denae said sharply. "Rayna, you are my friend. That is true. But you also are my employee. In this instance, I spoke to you as the Heiress. You seek a job for your brother with the Knight. Your brother will not be employed by Jorgarn. He will be employed by the Crown. He will have access to sensitive information and to unspoken treasures. Your brother is a convicted thief. I do accept the circumstances but you must accept this fact. Your brother wears his conviction like a badge. He displays his brand in the public houses and seeks opportunities with those he should not. The very opportunities a position in the palace would afford him.

"Yes, my father keeps tabs on him because you are my friend. If Jorgarn hires your brother it will because Jorgarn finds him worthy, not because I have pressured him or encouraged him. My relationship with my Knight is too important to allow friendship or even family to intervene. If you wish to speak further on the subject, do so now and do so quickly. But do not believe for a moment that you cannot be replaced. I would hate to do it, Rayna, because I dearly love you as a sister. But I will do it if you place me in the position where I must. Now you are dismissed if you have nothing further on this matter."

Rayna's anger had intensified during Denae's speech but it was intermixed with sadness. She felt lingering guilt that her brother had been branded while trying to quiet her rumbling stomach. She felt responsible because it had been she who had told the magistrate the truth in the matter. But she also knew she had not been responsible for Haptu's actions the past years. Rayna had not sent him to seek employment with a band of ruffians who made their coin by harassing people at the dock. It was not Rayna who forced him to spend that very ill-gotten coin on strong spirits and whores.

Yet she had promised her mother she would seek a viable means of support for her wayward brother. Her mother believed firmly that Haptu would change if he was away from his gang. She had never accepted that Haptu sought those people out. She would never believe that her only son would choose a life of violence and debauchery over a life of hard work and dedication.

Rayna nodded curtly at Denae and departed for her chamber. She was committed to seeking a position for her brother, whom she loved despite his faults. Rayna would have to live with the consequences of her decision – just as Haptu had been forced to live with the consequences of his.

Mostly, Rayna was unhappy that the very suggestions she told Denae to use on her Knight were now being employed on her. It would never do for the Princess to gain the ability to make decisions without her lead attendant's input.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 20



Jorgarn slowed the pace toward the manor when the manned gates came into view. There were four guards at the entrance instead of the normal two. All four men came alert when Jorgarn's party rounded the curve and came into view.

Jorgarn raised his hands to signal his party to stop. The four prisoners who had been forced to run to keep up breathed heavily as the horses halted.

Jorgarn dismounted and after warning Renoit and Pernice to remain alert, stepped forward to meet the guard captain who was striding toward him. The captain's eyes widened in surprise when he saw who was approaching – and his face broke into a smile.

"Jorgarn!" he exclaimed as his pace quickened. "Look at you, my boy. I gather you've come to your father's aid. Good on you! I always knew you were a good lot."

The man took in the four prisoners, two of whom he recognized, and Jorgarn's bloody clothing.

"Has news of this spread?" he asked quickly. "So few knew of the attempt. Has the town erupted?"

Jorgarn shook his head to try to calm the man. The Longview guards would be powerless if a large group of citizens decided to depose Lord Longview.

"These were part of a group that attacked us at the docks," Jorgarn said. "You said attempt. Is my father still alive?"

"Oh, yes, yes," the man said. "He is very much alive. He was wounded but not gravely. We have been on alert since he was told of a plot against him. Pietro was injured but managed to escape. We don't have the manpower to search the woods without leaving the manor unguarded. So he is far away by now, I'll wager."

"Let me guess, he fled to the north," Jorgarn said.

"Why, yes," the guard answered. "He was on foot but I would guess he has stolen a horse by now. The attack came at dawn. He has had a quarter of a day to flee."

Jorgarn glanced to where he knew his men, unaware of the potential danger, would be coming through the area soon.

"Could you please alert my father than I'm here?" he asked. "And let him know I request admittance to the grounds with the men who guard Lady Eslada."

The guard snapped to attention and hastened back to send one of his group. After Jorgarn had given them an overview of the situation, Pernice turned to head back to the farm to get Eslada but Renoit put out a hand.

"If there is still a battle ahead, you are of more value here than there," he said. "Your sword work is twice mine and I would prefer you be by Jorgarn's side should the need arise. I will return briefly but that time might be valuable if that treacherous pig is lurking nearby with more men. I will have Gorin and Fieth with me should an attack come."

Pernice agreed with Renoit's assessment – although the noble's skill with a blade was improving under Jorgarn's tutelage – but assumed that, like most nobles, Renoit would expect to be presented to the Lord at the first opportunity.

"I believe it is best that we wait until the entire group is back before we enter," Jorgarn said, making the decision. "Chicote, do not delay. Inform them that, according to the guard, the coup failed but Pietro is loose and likely headed toward Domita – which tells me Comar and his grandparents are still alive."

Renoit set off at a fast trot while Jorgarn and Pernice shepherded the captives to the guards.

"These men attempted to attack Lady Eslada this morning," Jorgarn said. "They were part of a group of 12 that I assume were hired by Pietro. Eight were killed and these four are yours to deal with as you see fit."

One guard looked at the captain for guidance but the older man was staring at the faces of the bound men.

"Were you in league with Pietro?" he asked one.

The other men scowled at the one who was questioned but he sighed and nodded.

"All of you?" the guard asked again.

Again the man nodded.

The captain turned to his other two men.

"Kill them all," he said casually. "I'll send for someone to take their bodies to the forest. The predators will eat well tonight."

There were scattered oaths that fell upon deaf ears as the four bound men were dragged away and slain.

Eslada's carriage arrived minutes later with Renoit driving and his horse tethered behind. The captain smiled warmly at Lady Longview and admitted the group to the manor courtyard where Wenta Elmwood, Lord Longview, stood waiting and watching carefully, his arm in a sling and his face scratched and raw.

-------

Lord Longview barely recognized the tall, muscular man who stood in front of him as his own son. Jorgarn appeared to have grown in size and in stature in the two months he had been gone. It was clear to Lord Longview from the outset that his son was in charge of the five men who accompanied him – even the two older men the Lord had seen in his own village from time to time. But Wenta Elmwood was happy to have his son back at his side.

He was certain Jorgarn could be convinced to stay in Longview and trained to take over the manor. It was the way it should have been done from the outset, he knew.

Lady Eslada exited the carriage gracefully and nodded toward her stepson. He nodded back and let out a shrill whistle.

Seven men entered the courtyard seamlessly from the woods that surrounded the manor. Jorgarn and another man, this one wearing a red vestment, peered toward the woods where Pietro had disappeared a few hours earlier as if expecting someone else.

The two men exchanged glances and Jorgarn turn to the assembled men and spoke in Emerti. Lord Longview had no idea what was said but the men nodded grimly and started out for the western woods.

Two men stayed behind with Jorgarn – one of the older men who lived nearby and one of the young men who had ridden forward with Jorgarn into the courtyard.

"Eslada, explain the situation, please," Jorgarn said, again in Emerti before heading off toward the woods himself.

The first group of men had not yet reached the tree line when the figure of Pietro came tumbling out of the woods and landed sprawled on the ground. He was followed by three men wearing the same red tunic of the man Jorgarn seemed to be closest to.

"He asked Jorgarn where he wanted the refuse dropped," Eslada translated Ronac's words to Wenta. "Jorgarn said it was your garbage and not his."

Ronac dragged the fallen Pietro back to his feet by the scruff of his neck and prodded him at swordpoint to Lord Longview.

He bowed deeply and spoke the Lord in very good Longview.

"My men found this sleeping in your forest, Lord Longview," he said. "I heard of the attempt on your life this morning and from his wound, I assume this is the traitor. I offer him to you with the warmest regards of the members of the Emertland Guard and Noble Guard."

Pietro looked up at his father and stepmother with nothing but contempt and anger. He had not noticed Jorgarn but his head snapped to the side when his younger brother spoke.

"It seems as if you should choose your allies more carefully," Jorgarn said. "The 12 you sent to the docks are dead. Comar and his grandparents will soon follow. Who is the numb nuts now, you worthless, sniveling piece of dung?"

Eslada's chuckle seemed to bring more fire to Pietro.

"You are scared to face me without an army at your back," he said.

"Yes, I am terrified of you, Pietro," Jorgarn said blithely. "It won't matter. You're still going to die today. But if it will make you feel better, I'll give the chance to kill me first. Pernice, can I borrow your sword for a moment? I promise this won't take long."

Pernice appeared to consider it for a moment before handing it over to Jorgarn.

"Release his bonds, Ronac," Jorgarn instructed. Ronac cut the rope that bound Pietro's hands in front of him.

"Catch," Jorgarn said as he tossed his sword to his brother. He kept Pernice's to use so there would be no taint attached to it if, by some happenstance, Pietro managed to win. "Let no man interfere until one of us is disarmed or dead."

Pietro barely caught Jorgarn's heavy sword and then dropped it as soon as he tried to swing it. It was obviously too heavy for him.

"He can use mine," the Longview guard captain said as he dropped his shorter, lighter sword on the ground at Pietro's feet.

"But he has a longer sword," Pietro whined. "I won't be able to reach him."

"Then pick up the longer one," Ronac sneered in the Longview tongue. "It won't matter if you use both of them or a bow. He has told me about you. You stand no chance. Your brother is awake and facing you, not asleep with his back to you like your usual victims."

Eslada translated for those who didn't speak the Longview language and booming laughter rang out from the Emertland soldiers.

Pietro turned scarlet and charged at Jorgarn, who parried his wild thrust easily and used the flat edge of Pernice's sword to slap Pietro soundly on the behind.

"I figure if I do this the rest of the day and into tomorrow, you'll receive but some of the punishments you should have had when you were growing up," Jorgarn said. "Sadly, it is not my place and I have no time for that."

Eslada translated again and the surrounding soldiers' jeers spurred Pietro into another ill-fated charge. This time Jorgarn side-stepped the rush and swept Pietro's legs from beneath him. He placed the point of Pernice's blade at his brother's throat and said just one word: "Yield!"

"Kill me," he said. "I will never yield to you."

"Oh, well," Jorgarn said with a chuckle. "It didn't hurt to ask."

He raised the point of the sword as if to plunge it through Pietro's neck, but instead brought it down beside his head and drove the point of his boot into the man's genitals.

"You will not die with honor on the battlefield, Pig-lover," Jorgarn said angrily as he leaned down to where his brother writhed in pain. "You will die like a traitor. You would die like a woman, if I had a say in the matter. You had no valor in life so you will have no valor in your death."

He turned back to his father who was standing dumbstruck. Word of Jorgarn's might had reached his ears from time to time but he had no real idea of how skilled his son was in battle.

"He is yours to dispose of," Jorgarn said. "I have other urgent matters to attend to. Farewell, Lord Longview. Eslada, I shall return before the week is out. Renoit and Melodart will remain here or at Melodart's residence."

"Wait!" Wenta yelled. "What do you mean? Have you not come to claim your right as my heir? You cannot simply leave again."

Jorgarn glanced at Eslada, who gave him a slight nod.

"I relinquished my claim when I departed," Jorgarn said. "In the intervening time, I have made a commitment to others. It is not possible for me to stay, nor do I wish to."

Lord Longview looked taken aback.

"Wenta, I will explain fully later," Eslada said. "For now, allow me to introduce you to Sir Jorgarn Elmwood, soon to be Sir Lord Jorgarn Tremaine. He is the Knight Protector of the Heiress of Emertland. He is second in command of the Emertland and Noble guards."

"He is a Knight and Lord?" he sputtered. "He has been gone from these shores only a few months. How is that possible?"

"It is possible because he is the finest soldier either of our countries has seen in two lifetimes," Melodart said as he stepped forward. "It is possible because he inspires trust and dedication in his soldiers the likes of which I have never seen and rarely heard about."

"But... ," Wenta said, ashen faced. "What of Longview? My heir is to be executed. What will we do here? Eslada has promised to conceive another heir but what if it is a girl?"

He was shaking his head sadly.

"Lady Eslada will accompany me back to Emertland," Jorgarn said. He wanted no misunderstanding. "Your heir has entered into a conspiracy that is tantamount to an act of war against Emertland. He conspired to kill you and kidnap two women I am sworn by honor to protect. Your failure to keep him in check has led you to forfeit any right you had to Lady Eslada. Lady Eslada, you are a citizen of Emertland and I deem your life will be in eminent danger if the Emperor of Swar learns of Pietro's treachery. As a Knight Protector to the Crown, I offer you passage and safe harbor to the land of your birth. Lord Longview, that means that I will use as much force as necessary to ensure her safety. Is that understood?"

"I will explain everything Wenta," Eslada said soothingly. "But he is right. We have kept the news from reaching the Emperor. Should he learn of what Pietro put into motion, you would be executed beside your worthless son. I cannot stay here. I will not stay here."

Wenta glanced from his wife to his second son to his first son, who was still lying on the ground sobbing.

"Execute the traitor," he said to the captain of the guard. Then he turned on his heel and entered the manor house without a backward glance.

-------

Eslada probably would have preferred trekking though the forests and mountains to Domita than facing the conversation she knew she must have with her husband.

"What is to come of Longview if you leave and take my heir with you?" Wenta asked in anger. "You gave your promise that you would provide me with a Supernumerary son."

"I promised that I would provide you with someone to assume the Lordship if Pietro proved unfit," Eslada pointed out. "I did not promise to sire a child for you. That was my intention at the time, yes. That will no longer be possible. If I am compelled to remain here, Landor will send a messenger to the Emperor of Swar. You know how that will end for you. At least this way, you will have time to select and train a suitable successor."

"And what of my bloodline?" Wenta asked. "Is it to die with me?"

Eslada couldn't help but roll her eyes.

"Perhaps, but I doubt it," she said. "Jorgarn is to be Lord Tremaine. Tremaine is a Crown-held land given to the spouse of either the Monarch or the Heir. Do you understand the significance of that?"

Wenta paused for a moment.

"Jorgarn is to be King?" he asked incredulously.

"Doubtful," she said. "Right now, at this moment, Jorgarn is the third most powerful man in Emertland. Once Denae – the Princess – assumes the Crown, Jorgarn will be the most powerful man in the country. That will be the case whether Denae convinces him to marry her or not. His role as Knight ensures his power. Denae already has him almost reeled in but it is unlikely that Jorgarn will take the title of King. Most likely he will take Prince Knight or Lord Protector or he might simply keep the title Knight Protector, although I think it changes to Knight Consort."

She waved her hand to change the subject.

"Your grandchild will be the ruler of Emertland," Eslada said. "The future of your bloodline does not lie in Longview but in Emertland."

"My grandson, a king," Wenta said in amazement.

"Or your granddaughter a queen," Eslada pointed out.

Wenta smiled and shook his head.

"Jorgarn and I spoke about the succession in Longview during our trip over the water," Eslada continued. "He and I agree that your cousin's son, Yatil, would make a worthy successor to you. He is a fine young man. In fact, he reminds me a great deal of Jorgarn when he was 10. That gives you plenty of time to ease him into the training. And, well, Yatil's mother is a widow and she is a very attractive woman. She would make a splendid Lady Longview."

Wenta pondered the loss of Eslada. There was no real love between them but there was respect and affection. He would certainly miss her. But Yatil's mother, Treene, was a beautiful woman and she and Wenta had much more in common that he had with Eslada.

"Additionally, you gain two other things from this," Eslada said. "Longview will have a natural ally in Emertland. The future kings and queens of Emertland will know of their ancestry. Even now, the Princess, whose mother was your mother's youngest sister, wishes to travel here to visit. It was that fact that allowed Pietro and Comar Symington to put forth their plan."

Wenta looked up sharply.

"That is where I have heard that name before!" he said. "Symington. He wished to wed my aunt. My mother's sister. I have a book here from the last Lord. Let me find it."

Wenta shuffled off to his bookshelf. Eslada noticed he was moving stiffly and still favored his arm.

She moved beside him when he returned to his seat and gently pulled his shirt cuff over his wound. The medics in Longview were not known for their skill and she saw the wound was still raw and bleeding.

"Let me attend to this for you," Eslada said. As she had done with Jorgarn earlier, she poured a strong spirit of alcohol over the wound. Unlike Jorgarn, Wenta grimaced and cursed. But he had to admit it felt better minutes later when Eslada had finished changing the dressings.

"Now tell me about the Symingtons and then about your attack," Eslada said.

Wenta pored over the book for a moment.

"My mother was supposed to marry your uncle, Landor," Wenta said. "But when he arrived, my uncle, Lord Longview at the time, noticed my mother was much older. Landor was but a boy, barely 13 or 14. My mother was already in her 20s. So my uncle pledged Sarita, my aunt, to Landor. Sarita was only a girl, perhaps 10 or 11. I think they were betrothed for 10 years or more before the wedding. My mother, Elevita, was awarded to my father. But my uncle had already invited another family to see Sarita – the Symingtons. Lady Symington was very displeased that her son had been displaced. How did Pietro get mixed up with that family after all these years? This happened decades ago."

Eslada sighed.

"The Greenmeadows were from Upland, correct?" Eslada asked.

"Yes, this is the ancestral home of my father," Wenta replied. "The Lordship moves from manor to manor as necessary. Why do you ask?"

"Does it say how your uncle assuaged the Symingtons?" Eslada wondered.

Wenta perused the pages but shook his head.

"They introduced the Symington heir to the daughter of a Domitian noble family," Eslada said, "a family whose parents still live a mile or so from the Greenmeadow estate in Upland. That is where Jorgarn is going. He will kill Comar Symington. Comar planned to force me to become his wife after you were killed. Pietro planned to force the Heiress to the Emertland throne to marry him. It is a convoluted mess and I don't understand how they expected to succeed."

"Bat shit!" Wenta exclaimed, perhaps the third time in 10 years that Eslada had heard the man curse. He rubbed his tired eyes. "That boy was nothing but trouble. Marnit knew it. She warned me that I needed to take a firm hand with him. But I refused. This is my own doing. My arrogance and short-sightedness has cost me both my sons. How could I have allowed this to happen?"

Eslada shrugged.

"I don't know, Wenta," she said softly. "But it has happened. Still, all is not lost with Jorgarn. The way you react to him now will go a long way to how he views you in the future."

She smiled.

"I'm certain you would enjoy seeing your grandchildren grow," she said.

"I would," Wenta agreed. "It has been so long since I have allowed myself to leave Longview. For so many years, I worried about what I would find when I returned if I left Pietro here. Of course, there was no way I could take him with me. That would almost be a declaration of war on wherever I went. Do you, do you suppose I will be permitted to attend the wedding?"

Eslada smiled and laughed.

"Permitted?" she wondered. "I believe you will be permitted to come to Emertland whenever you desire. I'm also certain that Denae will insist you come to the wedding."

Wenta shook his head.

"I doubt many in Emertland consider me a friend anymore," he said sadly. "I truly do respect your uncle and your family. I had no idea of what Pietro was doing. I had no idea at all."

"The wounds to your arm and your face speak to that, Wenta," Eslada said. "You needn't worry. Emertland still considers Longview a viable trading partner and Landor still considers you a friend of Emertland. It is why he didn't notify the Emperor. Well, that and the fact that Jorgarn and I explained the ramifications if the Emperor learned of the plot. No one wants to see you killed or even ousted. At least no one in Emertland. If you are, I'm certain you will be welcome to seek refuge there. Now, how were you wounded?"

Wenta's face turned grim.

"I have been on my guard since I received your letter," he said. "Thank you for that. Without your warning, I would have blundered into this morning completely unaware and would have wound up dead. As soon as you wrote about an 'unnamed internal threat to my safety, ' I knew who you meant. I had the guards keep a close eye on Pietro. Since his return from Upland, I have stationed a guard outside my chamber door. As that young man pointed out today, if Pietro was going to strike, there was a good chance it would be while I slept."

Wenta chuckled sadly.

"Pietro caught the guard sleeping this morning," Wenta continued. "He killed him and assumed his spot outside my door. I noticed something amiss as soon as I opened the door. Pietro had a cloak over his head, as if anyone would miss that."

He sighed and shook his head.

"He slashed my arm before it was off the door handle," Wenta said. "I managed to pull it back and I kicked the chair into his legs. He fell forward and scratched at my face. Another guard heard the clatter and raced up as Pietro regained his feet. Sadly, I did not think like Jorgarn or I could have kicked him in the fruit to keep him down. I stood paralyzed. The guard managed to turn away Pietro's slash and wounded him in the side. While the guard attended to me, Pietro leaped from a window and was in the woods before we could sound the general alarm. It was a fiasco. If Pietro had any skill whatsoever, I would be dead. It is no wonder he strikes only when he is unseen. It is just about the only chance he has – had – at success."

There was sadness in Wenta's eyes for a moment.

"So, you believe I will be invited to Jorgarn's wedding?" he asked in a hopeful tone.

Eslada chuckled.

"First, the Princess has to finish reeling him in," she said. "Your son is so unassuming. He doubted his worth as Knight but I think you have seen that he is eminently worthy of that role. He will fight the prospect of marriage because he deems himself beneath the honor. It will take a while but Denae will win out. She always does. I suspect they will marry within a year. I'll wager you a vat of fine Emertland spirits against a vat of Longview wine. Oh, incidentally, I am to be a property holder in Emertland. With your permission, I would like to continue the Longview name there. I will continue to be Lady Longview, in honor of this country I have called home for the past 10 years."

Wenta smiled warmly.

"It would be an honor, Lady Eslada, for the Longview name to be carried on by your heirs," he said sincerely.

"Thank you, Wenta," Eslada said. "But I should tell you. As of right now, the heir to the Longview name is the oldest Symington daughter. I have taken her and her brother into my custody and I believe they will wish to stay with me."

Wenta laughed.

"Well then, perhaps if things do not work out with Yatil, your young son can become the heir to Longview," he said. "It will be fitting, indeed. A Longview in the Emertland castle and an Emerti in the Longview manor."

"If things do not work out with Yatil, we can discuss this further, providing I can pull Drosset away from Jorgarn long enough," Eslada replied. "Although I think this land's future is safe with Yatil."

"Your son is Jorgarn's protégé?" Wenta asked.

"More like his shadow," Eslada said with a twinkle in his eye. "Wenta, you really must make arrangements to come across soon. There is another boy, Merg, who joins Drosset, my ward, in taking lessons from Jorgarn each day. He set up a training regimen and he is teaching them with short practice swords. Some of the young women attached to the Princess are going to learn after our return – I might stay for that, myself. Jorgarn has done so much in so little time."

She shook her head but her wide smile was unmistakable.

"You would have nothing to compare it to, Wenta," Eslada said. "So it won't be as evident to you. But life in Emertland is already much better for many people and it will improve for everyone in coming years. And it is because of your son."

"Our son, Eslada," Wenta replied with a touch of sadness. "Actually, more likely your son. You had a stronger influence on how the man turned out that I did. He is a good man because you took an effort to encourage him to become a good man. I was content to accept that my judgment was infallible, that I always knew best. I have come to understand, really since Jorgarn left, how much he added to this family and this land."

Eslada looked relieved but nodded.

"You understand about Pietro then?" she asked. She wondered if Wenta really understood as much as he thought he did.

"Pietro?" Wenta asked in surprise. "Oh, him I understood long before Jorgarn left."

"I mean about how Jorgarn kept Pietro in line," Eslada pressed.

"So did I," Wenta replied with a nod. "So did I. I knew about the practice sessions with your friends down the road. Pietro knew about them, too. He pushed me to find someone to train him. Can you imagine that? Pietro with weapons skills? Goddess above that would have been calamity. Luckily I always found a reason to put it off. Especially once I saw how scared Pietro was of Jorgarn. That bow shot at the boar was truly impressive. I wish I had told Jorgarn exactly how relieved I was when I saw him raise up and pull his arrow out. I knew at that moment that we were safe. And it certainly was some of the tastiest meat we've ever had here. You'll have to agree to that."

Eslada smiled, nodded her head and laughed. Wenta could be a truly entertaining man when he dropped his formality and just acted like himself.

"It was good," Eslada agreed. "You know, it is not too late to have this conversation with Jorgarn. All he did, every day, was done to impress you. I hope you understand that. All he ever wanted from you was your appreciation – and your love."

"And I gave him neither," Wenta said bitterly. "I am not certain I love him. That is sad, I know. But Marnit meant so much to me. I care for you, Eslada, but ours is – was – a marriage of convenience for both of our families. I am fortunate in that I chose much more wisely than your brother."

"Ha!" Eslada said loudly. "Little you know. He wanted me to marry Pietro. But we sent someone across to visit here and we learned he was not someone who I could tolerate. That is why my mother and brother sent me with you. You know, Pietro never really forgave you for that. But I have been happy here, Wenta. You have provided me a good life."

Wenta smiled warmly.

"And you have done everything I could ask of you, Eslada," Wenta replied. "I know the ways of this land were odd to you but you adapted – or at least pretended to. I appreciate that. Although I am much older, you took no young lover – or if you did, you were discrete enough I never found out."

Eslada shook her head.

"I am young but my vows mean something to me," she said. "As the vows you gave to me have meant the same to you."

"Thank you, they do mean the same to me," Wenta replied. "But you also raised my son to be a fine man. I can see that now that he is at a distance. Marnit would have been proud of him. I am proud of him. He is of my blood and Marnit's blood, but Jorgarn is your son."

"Let's just call him my younger brother," Eslada said with a sly smile. "My slightly younger brother."

Wenta laughed for what he felt was the first time in his adult life.

"Slightly younger brother it is then," he said. "So he is acting as uncle to your newfound children?"

"I believe he is acting as their slightly older brother," Eslada said ruefully. "However, I believe my daughter, Bralan, wishes it different. Jorgarn's manners have made him quiet popular with the young ladies. Those manners, you instilled them in him. Emertland has many wonderful traditions but some of the Longview traditions Jorgarn has brought with him are refreshing."

"I'm glad I could add something to his upbringing," Wenta replied.

"It is not too late to tell him that you are proud of the person he has become," Eslada pointed out.

Wenta waved his hand in a dismissive manner.

"I know him well enough to know my opinion matters little to him now," Wenta said sadly. "You saw him today. He sees me as I am: an old fool who wasted his life and his legacy on appearances rather than on substance."

"I don't deny that you've made mistakes, Wenta," Eslada said gently. "We all have. Jorgarn knows we all err. But I will refute that your life and legacy are wasted. I will tell you – and so will your son – that those two chapters in your life have yet to be written."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 21



Rayna knew where she would find Denae – sitting at a window peering out over the water toward where she knew Jorgarn to be. Wordlessly, Rayna took a seat beside her friend and stared in the same direction. Denae reached out her hand and took Rayna's.

The two friends sat there, holding hands, each lost in her thoughts – Denae pondered the future while Rayna reflected on the past. Both worried about people they loved across the wide expanse of water.

"They are fine."

It was Denae who broke the silence.

"I can't feel Jorgarn but somehow I know he is well," she continued. "I guess I can't allow myself to consider that he might not be. If Jorgarn is well, then Pernice is well. If they are well, everyone is well."

"You have much faith in him, Princess," Rayna said. Her tone indicated she was not at all certain that much faith was a good thing.

"You know I can sense him," Denae replied. "But there is more. Things that you must never speak of. Can you promise me this? Can you give me your vow that no one – not even Pernice – will hear what I would tell you?"

"I agree to that," Rayna said.

Denae considered what she wanted to reveal.

"We share thoughts sometimes," Denae said. "We share emotions always. I always know how Jorgarn is feeling and he knows what I am feeling. He has unwittingly let me into his head on a number of occasions. We generally try to keep our innermost thoughts to ourselves but I am better at it than he is. Perhaps I simply guard my thoughts more closely or maybe I simply have more I wish to conceal. Whatever the reason, there have been numerous times when I was privy to every thought that passed through Jorgarn's head for an extended period of time. That is why I have faith in him, Rayna. It is why I understand him so well. I know him. I know all of him."

Rayna's mouth dropped. She could not count the number of times she had wondered what, exactly, Pernice was thinking.

"That gives you the upper hand, doesn't it?" Rayna asked.

Denae shrugged her shoulders.

"I'm not sure I need to upper hand with him," she said. "A part of me understands that I should be the one with the power. Another part of me wonders if it might not be best to share my life with him in every sense. He is a good person at heart."

"So are you," Rayna insisted. "But they can be only one person at the top. He wishes to pull you down so he may rise. Don't forget that."

"I'm not sure you're right," Denae said softly. "I sometimes believe I would reach even higher plateaus with him as my equal."

Rayna frowned slightly but changed the subject back to where it had been. There would be time for Denae to learn Jorgarn's true nature after his return from Longview.

"What is it like to know his thoughts?" she asked. "I mean, what does it feel like to know exactly what someone else is thinking?"

"Troublesome," Denae said.

It was hardly the answer Rayna expected.

"I don't understand," she replied.

"Consider some of your own thoughts," Denae said with a smile. "Some of the fleeting, meaningless notions that cross your mind. They mean nothing to you. They are just something random that popped into your head. But to someone else, they might have a different meaning."

Rayna considered for a moment but still didn't get the gist of Denae's statement.

"A young man in tight trousers walks past," Denae said when she saw the confusion on her friend's face. "Do you really want Pernice to know what you thought of his bulge? Or that you looked at it? Would you want Pernice to know what you think of his mother at certain times? What you think of him at certain times? Most of Jorgarn's thoughts are similar to mine. We agree on much and we see the world much the same. But it is still troublesome for me when he is flattered by a comment made to him by a woman on the street or when he considers how Lorida would look outside of her gown. Or how nice it would be to have a wife and a life like the one Pernice will have one day. They are just normal thoughts – many of them I have thought myself. But it still makes me wonder sometimes."

"He thinks things like this often?" Rayna said. "About other women, I mean."

Denae laughed.

"As often as every other man under the Creator, Rayna," she said, "as often as Pernice does, as often as Torbert does and as often as my father does. They have no true meaning. It took a long conversation with my stepmother and Eslada before I understood that."

"Pernice does not wonder what other women look like naked," Rayna said firmly.

Again Denae laughed.

"According to my father, all men do," she replied. "I was not content with the answers Lorida and Eslada gave me. So I cornered my father and uncle and asked them the same. They admitted – grudgingly – that they had the same thoughts. Torbert was somewhat crass about it. He told me that every woman who passes a man's view is immediately assessed. She is placed into one of two categories: He would like to see her naked or he is glad she is wearing clothes. He said there are no other categories. Naked or clothed."

"Of course they would say that," Rayna hissed. "They are Jorgarn's accomplices."

"Accomplices?" Denae asked hastily. "You act as though he has committed some atrocity. As a test, I began to watch how the men of the castle – including your Pernice – view women as they pass. I watched Jorgarn as he interacted with women. My father and uncle – Lorida and Eslada – spoke truly. A woman will pass and a man's eyes will dart over her appraisingly. Just for an instant. I can almost see him make his determination: Yes, I would like to see her without that gown; no, I am glad that gown covers as much as it does. With Jorgarn, I can sometimes see it literally, in my head, as he pictures what she would look like without clothing."

Denae's warm smile caught Rayna off guard.

"What makes you so happy about that?" she said in an angry voice. "Do you think it is appropriate for him to do that?"

Denae shrugged one shoulder.

"I don't think he can stop it," she replied. "He's tried. I know that. I have heard him think to himself, 'Why am I looking at that trollop when I know Denae waits for me to come to her?' But he is right back to looking the next minute."

"That is appalling!" Rayna said. "How can you sit here and discuss this as if it's not wrong?"

"Because it is not wrong," Denae said. "I took an hour and really considered my own thoughts. While my thoughts were a little less brazen, they were similar. I assessed every man who walked past. Most usually it was an instant or two before I realized I had done it. But I did. I didn't necessary want to see their poles but I decided if they were handsome or foppish or ugly. It was no different than what men do. So I started to focus on what Jorgarn was feeling when he glanced at other women. Do you know what he felt?"

Rayna was silent.

"He felt nothing," Denae supplied. "There was no longing, no lust, no love. He was simply looking, like we do sometimes at the merchant's shops. We walk past and gaze at things even though we have no intention of buying them. Then I began to consider what Jorgarn feels when he thinks of me. That is not nothing, I can assure you. He feels protective, of course. But he also feels other things, warmer things. If I am with him when I sense a new emotion, I can usually tell what it is. For instance, the other morning, the first morning we shared a bed, I took off my clothes in front of him."

"I know, you told me," Rayna said flatly.

"But what I didn't tell you was the sense of awe that swept over Jorgarn," Denae said. "He found me attractive. He longed to touch to me. He found me beautiful."

"You are beautiful," Rayna pointed out.

"Not to everyone," Denae assured her. "Jorgarn finds some women that I view as beautiful as something less than that. Other women, Lorida for instance, who I find plain he views as a pretty."

"What about Bralan?" Rayna asked with a trace of maliciousness in her voice. "Or Eslada? Those two you will need to watch him with."

Denae patted her friend's hand, which she still held.

"Those two I have no need to watch him around at all," she responded. "He loves Eslada. There is no denying that fact. But he loves her as a brother loves a sister. In all the time I've spent inside his thoughts Jorgarn has never pictured Eslada in any state of undress. I know that he has seen her that way – aboard the ship, for instance, when she was ill. But his feelings about her are in no way romantic. The same is true for Bralan. He is protective of her – because he looks at himself as her older brother. I do pity the first man to cast eyes upon her in a lustful manner. Just as I pity any man who would seek to steal you from Pernice."

"I am certain of Pernice's love for me," Rayna said.

"As I am," Denae said. "But I am also aware of Jorgarn's affection for Pernice."

Rayna made a face. She had heard of such things but never witnessed it.

"Not that way," Denae said with a laugh. "Pernice and Jorgarn are kindred. They are closer than brothers. For that reason, Jorgarn holds great affection for you. Although he does not know you well, he thinks highly of you because Pernice and I think highly of you. The same way he loves Usala and Astid because they are Torbert's daughters. To my knowledge – and I think I would know – Jorgarn has never once had a prolonged conversation with either of them. Yet his thoughts of them are warm because they are Torbert's children."

"Or because he wishes to bed them too," Rayna said, determined to avoid the reverence that had crept into Denae's voice.

"If he wanted to bed any number of girls, they would have been willing enough," Denae pointed out. "Additionally, if he wanted to bed any woman, there are few who could stop him. But that is not how he views woman. You asked me once if I had considered he might harbor the same view as his countrymen about women. At the time, I couldn't answer you. Now I can. He does not. Not in any form or fashion. That is why he pushed so hard for females in the Noble Guard. He does not wish to prove their subservience. He wishes to prove to their equality. I know this for certain, Rayna. Did you notice how the men acted at dinner that last evening?"

Rayna grudgingly said she had.

"When is the last time Pernice held your chair or helped you from your seat before that night?" Denae asked. She knew she was scoring points with this line.

"He never had," Rayna said. "We don't hold those silly customs here."

"Silly?" Denae asked. "I saw your face when he held the back of your chair. You did not find his actions silly. You, like me and the rest of the women at the table, felt appreciated. You felt flattered. You felt loved. I can't read your thoughts, Rayna – thankfully, I think. But I can read your expressions. You looked up at Pernice with a look of such love and devotion it was somewhat sickening, if you must know. The only thing that kept me from leaving my evening meal on the floor is the fact that I saw Pernice looking at you in the same fashion. That, and the fact I knew exactly what you were feeling because I was feeling it myself."

"Fine, I liked it when he did that," Rayna said.

"Why do you think he did that?" Denae prodded.

"Probably because Jorgarn threatened them if they didn't," Rayna replied.

Denae laughed again and shook her head.

"Pernice did that, most likely, because he saw the look it earned Jorgarn when he did it," she said. "And not just from me. The others at the table looked at him the same way, including you if I had to bet – not that you would admit to it. I can tell you what Jorgarn was thinking when the other men emulated his actions. He was surprised. Oh, he was pleased, particularly when he saw the way we women looked at the men, but he was surprised. He did not anticipate anyone else doing it. He did it because he always does. He has done the same for you, Rayna. You might not have even recognized it for what it was. But he has held your chair while you sit or stood."

Rayna's mind raced backward and she realized it was true.

"It means he holds you in high esteem as a person," Denae pointed out. "He was raised to render assistance to any unaccompanied female. It is part of his makeup. It is not because he views us as helpless. It is because he views us with appreciation. He will even assist those he does not like very well. For instance, he helped Riset with her cloak. It was not a task he relished or even enjoyed. But he did it because he thought someone should assist her. I wish there was a way I could let you see him as he views himself. You would not be constantly trying to point out his flaws to me. I know them already – because he knows them."

"That is not what I'm doing," Rayna protested.

"It is exactly what you're doing," Denae said firmly. "It is exactly what you've done for almost three months now. I don't know if it is jealousy or if it something more. But it must stop, Rayna. My choice has been made. I could not rescind that choice even if I wanted to, which I don't. You need to understand, Rayna. It would pain me greatly if I am forced to send you away. I think it would pain Jorgarn greatly if that came to pass. But if you insist upon continuing this, you will force me to. Please, as my dearest and closest friend, I beg you. Put aside whatever it is that drives you to this and learn to accept the situation. If I am forced to choose between my Knight and my friend, I fear you will not like the decision that comes. But it is the only decision I can make, Rayna. I ask that you do not put me in the position where I must choose him over you. Because that is the choice I will make and there is nothing you can do to change that fact."

"So you've already chosen," Rayna said.

"I can see the wisdom in some of what you say," Denae replied. "But I am also going to keep my mind open toward the alternative. I will have to assess the matter further. For now, I believe I shall continue as I have. Jorgarn is none the wiser, at this point. If I chose to make him my subordinate as you suggest, I believe I still can. But I think I would rather face life with him as my equal, not as my thrall."

-------

Jorgarn had almost forgotten how cold the northwestern climate was in Longview. Thankfully, Gorin, Melodart and Eslada had not. They had spent much more time in Upland than Jorgarn. The men each carried two thick blankets to wrap themselves as they lay upon the ground.

There was no danger evident – and Jorgarn did not expect any to pass their way – but wanted the men alert so he kept them spread out during the trek through the wilds. Those with woodcraft moved silently on the flanks in advance of the main body of troops which kept to the main paths.

Jorgarn considered appropriating the Upland manor for his troops but feared warning his enemies of his presence. Instead they camped on the cold ground a few miles east of the manor and a mile or so south of Comar Symington. Jorgarn wondered if Comar had been alerted of Pietro's failure or if he was sleeping the sleep of the just, dreaming of his future as Lord Regent of Emertland.

Pernice had brought down a stout buck at midday, so the soldiers stopped to prepare a meal. Ronac joined Jorgarn in helping to prepare the meal, as few others outside of Seni – who was on patrol – had much experience with cooking in an open area.

Several found it ironic that the deadliest man they knew also could prepare a venison steak that seemed to melt in their mouths. The leftovers were stashed away for the evening meal so a fire was unnecessary at their night-time camp site.

It was two hours before dawn when Jorgarn felt a hand on his shoulder. Gorin, Seni and Ronac took two men each and headed off in the forest to encircle the manor in Domita, while Jorgarn, Pernice and Fieth led the main body of men through the brush.

The border, as Jorgarn expected, was unguarded and the group met no one on their way to the front door of the estate. Even the guardhouse was unmanned, not unheard of in remote areas. There was no lock on the front door and the entire group of nine had made its way inside the small chamber before anyone even noticed they were there.

As it was, only a servant came out of his chamber to see about the noise. He was unarmed and wearing only a long woolen dressing gown.

"Who goes?" he asked. He didn't recognize the strange uniforms and the men were obviously not from Domita or Longview. Their short haircuts – and long swords – proved that. Only Jorgarn understood the language the man used. It was a mixture of Longview and Domita that pervaded these parts.

"I am Sir Jorgarn Elmwood, Knight Protector to Princess Denae, Heiress to the Emertland Crown," Jorgarn said as he stepped forward, sword drawn. "I have come for the head of the traitor, Comar Symington, and, I fear, for the heads of your master and mistress. They have been convicted of crimes against Emertland and Longview."

The old man's mouth dropped but no sound came out. The manor was small, so the serving staff was aware of what was transpiring with owners and their grandson. The staff had expected no good to come of it but the old man didn't expect for armed soldiers to appear at the door.

"Please wait, Sir Jorgarn," the man stammered. "I'll awaken them."

Jorgarn put a firm hand on the old man's bony shoulder.

"I think my men will awaken them," he said. "The manor is surrounded. There is no way out for them. Let your staff know that they will not be harmed unless they are armed. If they do not attack, we will not harm them. If they do, however, we will kill every last one of you. Am I understood?"

The old man nodded.

"It is only me, my wife and our daughter and granddaughter," he said with a gulp. "We will not attack and we are not armed."

"Point me to the appropriate rooms and rouse your family," Jorgarn said. "Keep them in a room until the business is finished here. You do not wish your child and grandchild to witness what will transpire. I was not jesting when I said we have come for their heads."

The man pointed down a short hallway before darting off in the opposite direction.

Jorgarn sent three teams to stand outside the chambers. He, Pernice and Fieth stood in front of the doors and looked at one another. Dawn was just breaking outside but light was dim in the mountainous region. With a nod from Jorgarn, all three men used the butt of their swords to hammer on the doors before yanking them open.

The look on Comar's face as he sat up blearily in bed to see Lord Lippitt's son and two other men striding toward him was one of shock, fright and, belatedly, resignation. He recognized the crests and knew the Noble Guard had come for him. He was no swordsman and there was no weapon nearby anyway, so he nodded meekly and attempted to rise from his chamber.

Lippit seized the man roughly by his collar and threw him to the floor, where he kicked him in the ribs.

"You will not walk to your death, traitor," he spat. "You will crawl like a dog. You will slink like a snake. But you will never walk like a man again. You forfeited that right when you plotted against your King and your homeland."

The scene was similar in the other two rooms of the house. The lord and lady of the manor understood very little of what was being said but they knew full well the impact of the words. The plan had failed and they had been captured.

Jorgarn and Fieth had escorted the two elderly residents to the main chamber before Pernice, Lippit and an Emertland Guard named Tovar accompanied a crawling, crying Comar Symington into the room, kicking him the rear end to speed him along.

The elderly woman showed fire for the first time.

"How dare you treat my grandson that way?" she screeched.

Jorgarn was tempted to backhand her but he stopped himself.

"You reap what you sow, you old crone," he said in a low, menacing voice. "You have plotted the death of my father and the kidnapping of my stepmother and my Princess. This is as kindly as you or your kin will be treated. Your other grandson, Cruit, is in the King's dungeon where he joins his father and your daughter, I believe. Their executions will be for the public to view. Yours, however, will be private."

The woman gasped. She had expected to be turned over the Dometian Council for sentencing. Given her connections and her age, she doubted anyone would do anything at all to her. She had expected her grandson to be granted immunity as a foreign noble. She had not expected to be killed.

"You can't kill us!" she said in a halting voice.

"Really?" Jorgarn asked. "And who is to stop us? Pietro and the rest of your gang of outlaws died yesterday. You will die today. If all goes well, the rest of the Symington family will die tomorrow evening. Nicely done, Comar. You have gone from being a King to eradicating your entire line. In fact, the Symington name has been stricken. The lands are to be split, your manor to be razed."

Jorgarn took a deep sigh. If those around him didn't trust him so much, they would have sworn the smile he gave the group in front of his was almost evil in nature.

"I plan to take your heads back to Emertland with me," he said casually. "The last sight any of your family sees before the axe falls will be your faces."

He produced six coins from his tunic vest.

"After you're dead, I will use these to keep your eyes open," he continued in the same bored voice. "I want you three to die knowing that the last sight your family will see before joining you in wherever it is traitors and scoundrels go will be your lifeless eyes staring back at them. Your son-in-law will know he cost his wife's parents their lives. Your brother will know his stupidity led to his grandparent's beheading. And you, Comar, think of your dear, sweet, whore of a mother staring into your open eyes, flies buzzing in your gaped mouth, when the executioner's blade falls."

Jorgarn closed his eyes and a smile of deep satisfaction crossed his face.

"You men who won the lottery, take them out and do your duty," he said. "Now remember, don't desecrate the corpses. Just take their heads and let the wolves do the rest. We are not animals. Oh, and make sure Comar there crawls out. I like that plan. If I didn't think these two old relics would die before they made it outside, I would make them do the same. Nice thinking, Lippit."

There had been no lottery, of course. Men had volunteered to execute Comar but none had offered to execute an elderly man and his wife. Gorin and Pernice had reluctantly stepped forward to make sure Jorgarn didn't have to do the duty himself. Fieth put his hand on Pernice's arm and moved him back, taking his spot himself.

"This is not for you, Pernice," he said. "It is not for any of us. But you are in charge of half the group. It is my duty to do this."

Pernice was grateful that someone else had volunteered but after only a few minutes in the company of Cruit and Comar's grandparents, he realized he would not mind ridding the world of them. Instead, Pernice put his arm around Jorgarn's shoulder as the three others were dragged outside.

Jorgarn's face has lost the cruel smile as soon as he turned away from his captives. In fact, his face had lost most of its color completely.

"It had to be done, Sir Jorgarn," Pernice said softly. "You had to pretend to enjoy this. They deserved to know the fate in store for the rest of their accomplices. It was fitting punishment for them to have those thoughts be their last."

"I know," Jorgarn said in a low voice. He struggled to keep down the cold meal he had consumed only hours prior. "But I believe this is a blight on my soul that will never fade. In two days, I have ordered the killing of 16 men and women."

"You're wrong," Pernice replied. "You ordered none of their killings. The King ordered them. You are following the King's directive. I was there when he issued it. He did not say for you to decide their punishment. He did not say it was up to us to decide if they lived or died. He said for you to turn over any captives to the appropriate authority. If they were not executed by their government, we were to kill them. We were ordered to kill Comar and his grandparents. We were expressly ordered to kill them. King Landor did that so you would not have to decide. He made that order to you so you would know, now and forever, that it was his decision and not yours. I do not believe this will be a blight on anyone's soul. But if it is to be, King Landor made certain that it was to be on his and not yours. Not yours, not mine, not Elobert Fieth's, not Ronac Belad's. His."

"Thank you, Pernice," Jorgarn said after a deep breath. "I hadn't looked at it that way."

Pernice nodded and clapped Jorgarn on the back.

"I wonder if that family of servants would poison us if I asked them to fix us a warm meal before we travel back?" Jorgarn wondered.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 22



Eslada steadfastly avoided thinking about the contents of the box Jorgarn had brought back from Domita. The fact that insects seemed to be attracted to it was enough for her to understand what was inside.

She was not surprised that Jorgarn and his soldiers were eager to return to Emertland and hoped to leave by the morning tide. She had barely had enough time to pack the belongings she wished to take with her, given the amount of time she had to spend assuaging Wenta's fears about the future.

She was surprised, however, when Lord Longview asked to accompany the group to the dock. The man kept up a conversation with Ronac on the trip and from the snippets Eslada overheard, Wenta was trying to gauge the differences between the cultures – questions he had never bothered to ask her in the 10 years she was his wife.

She didn't wonder about the sudden interest. The realization that his grandchild would rule a sovereign country had Wenta strutting like a peacock. It was only with the greatest effort that Eslada manage to convince Wenta that Jorgarn was not exactly aware of that fact and it probably wasn't Wenta's place to inform him.

Wenta helped Eslada from her horse and kissed her softly on the cheek.

"Thank you for opening my eyes," he said softly. "I wish you well and I will miss your counsel. You were a better wife to me than I was a husband to you. I'm sorry."

She had expected such a declaration and offered a similar reply.

"Be well, Wenta," she said. "I have said often that you are a good man. Now is the chance for you to prove me right."

She chuckled mildly to herself when Wenta placed his hand on Jorgarn's arm at the port and asked him to stay behind for a moment. She was certain Jorgarn thought this would be one last attempt to convince him to stay behind.

The look on Jorgarn's face was one of confusion and a hint of anger when he boarded the ship. It took much prodding from Eslada before he would speak of the encounter, even to her.

"He said he was proud of me," Jorgarn said with a hint of bitterness. "All those years of bowing and scraping for that man's approval and he waits until it matters not the least to me to give it."

He was shaking his head sadly.

"For 15 years of my life, I did anything I could think of to hear those words," he continued. "Now, I truly don't care if he is proud of me or not. Does he truly think I will ever consent to return to that place?"

"No, Jorgarn, he doesn't," Eslada said as she put her arm around him. "But he finally faced what his life has been about and he realized all he missed in your life. I truly believe he wants to become a part of your life – but of the life you've made in Emertland, not the one you had in Longview. He stepped back from his world for just a moment and found it to be nothing like he thought it was. That happens as men age and when they face their mortality. He knows he is lucky to survive Pietro's attempt. He knows he is lucky to have the chance to get to know you – the real you, not the you he thought existed. I hope you'll give him that chance someday."

Jorgarn was not impressed by Eslada's suggestions.

"I'm sure his interest will wane in time," he said dismissively. "He will train his surrogate son to be his heir. Yatil's mother, Treene, will replace you. I hope the young one, Montay, does not replace me however."

"I believe Wenta's actions were meant to show both of us that we weren't to be replaced," Eslada said.

"Oh, I don't mind if Lord Longview forgets about me," Jorgarn corrected. "I simply hope Montay has a better childhood. I believe I will write to Treene in a few years and remind her that precedent has been set for sending a son to Emertland. I always liked those boys of hers."

Eslada smiled warmly.

"Actually, I believe that letter would be well received by Lord Longview," she said. "Not to mention Montay. Now, onto other matters, what do you think of my new wards?"

"I like them," Jorgarn said with a genuine smile. "Drosset is a fine young man. He was never allowed to do much while with the Symingtons. I gather the same is true for Bralan. I promise, Eslada, to offer the same type of guidance and assistance as you offered to me through the years. I hope that is acceptable to you."

"More than acceptable," Eslada said. "But I have other questions for you about Bralan. Do you think she will be upset if I do not designate her as my heir right away?"

Jorgarn's eyes widened.

"I do not get the impression that she ever expects to be named such," he said. "I actually gather she might find it unpleasant if you were to do that. She has plans to ask you about the Noble Guard in a year or so."

"Oh, she has many plans of her own, Jorgarn," Eslada replied with a smirk. "She plans to join Denae's entourage and serve there until she is of age. Then she will join the Noble Guard and serve there until she completes her last plan."

Jorgarn smiled at Eslada.

"Well, if she is half as insistent as her adopted mother, I'm sure all of her plans will come to fruition," he said. "I assure you, I'll help in any way I can."

Eslada shook her head.

"No, Jorgarn, I doubt you will," she told him. "Her final plan is to marry you someday."

-------

Jorgarn was still pondering Eslada's parting words when Pernice took her spot at the table beside him.

"You should rest," Pernice said. "It will be most of a day before we reach land. I hope we can order all the men to stand down and sleep soon. I know none of us slept well in the past three nights."

"Yes, I think that is appropriate," Jorgarn said, kicking himself for not ordering it sooner. "We have no need for watches aboard ship. The captain will alert us if something is amiss. Encourage the men to lay off the spirits though. I have heard there are mercenary ships in this water."

"I'm sure none would think of drinking today," Pernice said.

Jorgarn let out a laugh.

"Oh, they will think of it," he said. "Particularly Gorin and Fieth. I know I am thinking of it and I would wager you are, too."

Pernice returned Jorgarn's smile.

"I admit to thinking about it," he replied. "What I should have said was that each man knows his duty and will abstain. Is that more accurate?"

"Much more accurate I would guess," Jorgarn agreed. "Let them know that as soon as the festivities end at the castle, I will ensure every man here gets two weeks leave. We might have to stagger them a bit but I don't think so."

He glanced sideways at his friend.

"Perhaps that will give you and Rayna enough time to wed," he offered.

Pernice shrugged.

"I am not certain that is the path we are on now," he said. "I have seen a side of her in the past weeks that I do not like and I cannot live with."

"Every woman has that side, I'm certain," Jorgarn said. "Unless you can learn to live with the parts you do not like, you don't get to enjoy those parts you do. Rayna is a good person. Of that, I'm certain."

"She does not like you!" Pernice said.

Jorgarn simply nodded.

"There are many who don't, my friend," he replied. "I would wager the number of people who dislike me is far greater than the number of those who abide me. You can't base your future on what people think of me. I've seen how she thinks of you. That is what is important."

"I'm not certain you fully understand my problem," Pernice said. "If we wed, I fear Rayna will insist I leave the guard. She has accused me more than once of turning into you. Of course, I took that as a compliment but I'm not sure that is how she meant it."

Jorgarn did not smile at his friend's joke.

"Do you know why she dislikes me?" he asked instead. "I have never done anything – purposefully, at least – to harm her. I would never do that. Not just for your sake or Denae's but because I actually like Rayna. She has, I don't know, spirit."

"She has spirit," Pernice said. "And I do know what her problem is with you. I don't think it is personal, by the way. I think if she were to look at you objectively, she would find your humor and your wit to be enjoyable. But for the past four or five years, Rayna has had unfettered access to the Princess. She was the person the Princess came to for advice. She was able to point the Princess in whatever direction she chose. There was no one standing between her and, well, power. Now there is; there is you and you are not as malleable as the Princess. You do not take other people's feelings into consideration when you make a decision."

Jorgarn frowned.

"I didn't mean that badly, Jor," Pernice said quickly. "I meant only that if something needs to be done – like we've done these past days – you don't allow sentiment or emotion to enter the decision. The Princess does. Or at least that is my impression. I've seen her follow Rayna's advice on matters – trivial matters, mind you – when she wasn't certain it was the best way to go. But she went that way because it might have hurt Rayna's feelings if she didn't. Rayna has played on her friendship with the Princess for a great many things. Her mother is now second cook, for instance, and her brother was pardoned from some crimes he committed. I think she has come to understand that those days are at an end. Even if she convinces the Princess, it is unlikely she will be able to convince you."

"If is a trivial matter, I doubt Denae will even discuss it with me," Jorgarn pointed out. "I do not get approval over her staff and I wouldn't want it if it were offered. The King will have final say on anything important for, I hope, the next 25 years or more anyway. I will be, always I hope, the final authority on nothing."

"But she has lost that access," Pernice replied. "She knows that you would never have pardoned her brother. He was caught setting up an ambush site. The others with him were killed but he was only branded again because Rayna begged the Princess to ask for a pardon. The Princess would discuss this with you beforehand. You would disagree with a pardon. I could see it on your face when I told you his crime. I disagreed with it, too, by the way. I still do. Every time I am around the man I look for a reason to run him through. Not surprisingly, the little sneak always minds his manners around me."

"Perhaps I should take a moment to explain to Rayna that I do not wish to usurp her role," Jorgarn offered.

"But you must usurp her role," Pernice asserted. "She held too much sway over things she doesn't understand. And I don't think it would do any good. She is jealous of you and your emergence has given the Princess a different view of things. She has already told Rayna she couldn't do some things she planned – such as make appointments to the Princess' staff. Rayna assumed that it would be you who helped with those selections but I told her she was foolish. You don't care who works for the Princess so long as they are trustworthy. I also believe that Rayna had designs upon hiring your staff."

Jorgarn chuckled.

"She can if she wishes," he said. "I have told Denae repeatedly I do not require employees. I am capable of selecting my clothing and laying it out the night before. I can keep track of where I have laid my swords very well by myself."

Pernice patted his friend on the shoulder.

"Now you can," he said. "But what happens when you must be in three places at once? What will you do when you must meet with Guards, attend Tribunal and pack for a trip in only a quarter of a day? You will need employees – probably more than one – to set your schedule, to fix appointments, to make sure your dress tunic is pressed and cleaned. I believe Torbert has six men who work for him doing those things and I do not believe any of them has an easy time of it."

"Cläda," Jorgarn muttered. "What have I gotten myself into? Do you have any recommendations?"

Pernice laughed and shook his head.

"Oh, no," he said. "I'm not walking into that one. If things do work out with Rayna she would never forgive me for making a suggestion when she was not allowed."

"She is allowed," Jorgarn asserted.

"You should not heed her counsel, Sir Jorgarn," Pernice said. Jorgarn knew when his friend started using his title that Pernice was about to impart something important. "She will wish to have her brother on your staff. That will not work. He is a twice-convicted thief. He is a drunkard and laggard. He will view a job at the castle as a chance to sit back and collect pay without doing any work. If he is hired, he will expect to be made your chief steward. It will create nothing but problems for you."

Jorgarn nodded.

"If she suggests him, I will interview him," he said. "It is the least I can do for her and the least I can do to try to bridge the gulf between Denae's two closest advisers. I will make sure she knows it is not set in stone. If he presents himself well and is candid with me, perhaps I will offer him a secondary job. Perhaps I can recommend a job with the groom or in the kitchen."

Pernice lowered his eyes but shook his head.

"He will not accept anything of the sort," he said. "He has always been this way – at least since I have known him. He expects something for nothing because his sister is friends with the Princess. He has already seen the benefits to that. If he turns down a job, Rayna will still blame you."

Jorgarn shrugged.

"But at least it will be known that I did not dismiss her out of hand," he said. "Perhaps if she sees that I am making an effort to be a friend to her, too, her problem will lessen."

"I fear that Rayna will continue her course until the Princess sends her elsewhere," Pernice replied. "Regardless of what you do or don't do, Rayna will expect to get her way. I have spoken to her about this. The Princess has already limited Rayna's influence. If Rayna continues to push – continues to speak badly of you in the Princess' presence or to those who have the Princess' ear – it will end badly for Rayna. I am unwilling to marry her until I see for myself that she can put aside her personal longings and look at the long-term good. I would be foolish to marry a woman like that."

"At the same time, you would be foolish to let Rayna slip from your grasp," Jorgarn pointed out. "She is young and she is perhaps impetuous but I truly believe she is a good person who will do the right thing when the time comes."

Pernice pondered the situation for a moment before nodding his agreement.

"Now, onto other things," Jorgarn said lightly. "Eslada has informed me that Mistress Bralan has set her cap for me. How in the name of Mercy do I avoid the trap of finding myself married to my younger sister?"

Pernice patted Jorgarn's shoulder as he arose.

"That one, I cannot help you with," he said with a laugh. "But I suspect that the Princess will point you in the right direction."

-------

Denae was finishing her morning meal in her sitting room with her attendants when a small smile crept over her face.

Her friends were startled when she jumped to her feet and raced to the window to look out over the harbor. She sighed when she saw no ship on the horizon.

"Trouble, Princess?" Bralan asked.

Rayna couldn't hide her smirk but it faded when Denae's eyes landed on hers.

"They return this day," Denae said brightly.

"How do you know?" Leyota wondered. "Is Chicote healthy? Is everyone well?"

The young girl blushed brightly as soon as her mouth closed.

"I apologize, Your Highness," she said.

Denae sat beside Leyota and hugged her.

"You simply voiced what everyone here has wondered, Dearest," Denae said. "But I cannot answer you. I can sense Jorgarn nearing and I believe he is not unhappy. I believe that if anyone had been harmed, he would be very unhappy."

Bralan and Usala nodded fiercely. They both had taken great pleasure in having Jorgarn's arms around them during dances after the Ascension. For Usala, it was the first time she had felt that way. Bralan's crush had started when Jorgarn spoke kindly to her and praised her valor on the day her parents were arrested.

"Well, I suppose we should notify the rest of the world that our conquering hero returns," Rayna said dismissively. "I'm sure the King will sit a fete that puts the Ascension to shame now that the Great Jorgarn has returned safely."

All eyes in the room turned to Rayna. Usala beat Denae and Bralan to speaking first.

"Your jealousy is most unbecoming, Rayna," she said with menace. "Perhaps if you can't keep a civil tongue you should remain silent instead."

"Well said, Usala," Denae told her. "Heed her advice, Rayna, or you shall wait at the castle while the rest of us meet the ship. I do not care to know your thoughts but I will not tolerate your tongue. I gather that the rest of the group is of the same inclination."

She turned the rest of the group, ignoring the look of outrage on her oldest friend's face and the look of murderous rage that settled on Bralan's soft features.

"There is no need to alert the household," she said brightly. "There is no ship in sight just yet. We will alternate looking for one and then we will let the others know. I'm not certain how far this connection extends."

She giggled slightly.

"They might have just left Longview for all I know," she added. "If the bond grows stronger, I will let everyone know. Come, let us finish our meal and attend to the rest our duties."

It was a scant time later when Denae spoke again.

"All are well," she declared. "No injuries on our side."

She stared at the ceiling for a moment.

"And I believe no real opposition," she added. "Now I believe it is time for me to visit my father. Would you four care to join me? It will be a brief visit, I'm certain. It might be best for the rest of you to set up things for our first interview."

The girls exchanged glances before Bralan spoke.

"We will set up things so there is no rush if the ship arrives soon," she said. "With your permission, of course."

"The ship will arrive before midday," Denae assured them. "Or at least Jorgarn suspects it will. Did you know there were pirates on the water?"

The non-sequitur caught the entire table off guard.

"No," they answered almost in unison.

"Jorgarn was on watch for them until just a few minutes ago, I think," Denae said puzzled. "At least that is what I think he was doing. He was on the lookout for something. That is the only thing I can think of that would pose a danger on the water."

"Sea monsters!" Leyota exclaimed. The shy smile let everyone know she was trying to be humorous.

"Well, I suppose there are those," Usala offered. "Giant squid and mermaids, too."

The group, with the exception of Rayna, was in fine spirits as they traversed the castle for their assignments.

-------

Jorgarn and Pernice were not in as high of spirits aboard the Latavit. Both were feeling under the weather, although there was not a cloud in the sky.

Three sleepless nights, two of them spent freezing or nearly so, had allowed an infection to seep into Jorgarn's wound. The warming temperatures as they neared Emertland did nothing to stem his fever, either.

Eslada was clucking around like a mother hen, raiding the ships stores for remedies and cures and finding little or nothing to help.

Jorgarn was on watch with a member of the Emertland Guard when he suddenly felt the need to rid himself of his stomach contents. He wasn't sure if it was coincidence or simply watching Jorgarn but the other Guard mimicked Jorgarn's actions soon after.

Jorgarn sat shivering on the deck until his relief arrived with the breaking dawn.

The men who came forward looked much the same as Jorgarn felt.

"Bad food?" one asked.

"Bad weather, I think," Jorgarn said. "I believe I should sleep for a while – days perhaps."

The other men laughed but not with much force. They had been enjoying a deep slumber when the sailor's knock had come upon their door.

Jorgarn had barely gotten on his bunk when a glassy-eyed Pernice arose quickly and raced from the room. He looked pale when he returned a few minutes later.

"I've been doing that all night," he muttered. "I get seasick. My father is a fisherman. This is embarrassing. Promise you won't tell him."

Jorgarn chuckled.

"If you promise to keep my infirmities to yourself, I can keep yours," Jorgarn said. "Eslada is bad enough but I've had to keep myself very shielded so Denae can't sense my discomfort. Blazes, this arm hurts."

Pernice looked at this friend for a moment.

"I have heard Rayna speak of the connection you share with the Princess," he started. "I was under the impression it was, well, spiritual. Am to I learn it is physical? She can actually sense what you are feeling?"

"Please keep that close to your vest," Jorgarn said. In his tiredness he had spoken before he thought. "It is guarded and few know if it. But yes, she can sense my feelings and sometimes my thoughts. I can always tell what she is feeling but I am a little more circumspect in looking at her thoughts. There are several things I'm certain I don't want to know."

Pernice laughed but persisted.

"So, you know what she thinks now?" he asked.

"We're too far away," Jorgarn said with a shake of his head that made him nauseated again. "I have a general sense of her from this distance. If I had to bet, and I'll admit I am not good at parsing through her emotions very well, I would guess she is somewhat irritated. I wonder what I did."

"She probably knows you were wounded," Pernice said. "You might wish it were fatal once she gets done with you. I'm going up on deck. You need your rest and I'm certain Lady Eslada will be here shortly. Are you sure she is not your natural mother?"

"He's certain," a voice said from behind the closed door. "Now get up on deck. I heard you were seasick and the fresh air will do you good."

Pernice blushed scarlet and apologized profusely to Eslada before making his way topside.

Eslada chuckled as she sat down and unwrapped Jorgarn's arm. The smell of infection was lessening. Without warning, she poured more alcohol over the wound, causing Jorgarn to curse and jump.

"Ha!" she said. "I knew it. You are not that tough. You were just putting on a show for your men. You have tears in your eyes."

"It hurt," Jorgarn said simply.

"I know and I'm sorry but it was going to hurt either way," she said. "Now, this is going to hurt worse. I was up all night sterilizing this brush. I'm going to scrub the wound. Then I'm going to pour more spirits on it. Do you want something to bite on?"

"Your arm will suffice," Jorgarn said with a smile.

After one or two passes with the stout brush, Jorgarn wished he had something between his teeth. It felt as though his arm was afire. The next two dozen strokes didn't add to his comfort level any. He focused on keeping Denae from knowing of his discomfort and succeeded until Eslada poured the remaining contents of the flask over the red, raw skin of his inner arm.

-------

Denae was in an interview with a candidate for her staff when tears sprang to her eyes. Without a word, she stood and left the room with Rayna at her heels.

"He's in pain," Denae said. "Great pain, worse than I think he has ever known."

"What?" Rayna asked. "You said he wasn't unhappy. Now you say he is in pain. Have they been attacked?"

Her hand covered her mouth.

"I don't know!" Denae said loudly. "I felt a few seconds of great pain then sudden calm. It's like he knows I'm in there and he's sending me a false sign."

"Maybe he is," Bralan, who exited shortly after Rayna, offered. "I doubt he wants you to worry if he is hurt."

"I wish I could speak to him, to make sure he is well," Denae said sadly. "I'm going to my chamber. Please reschedule this young woman for tomorrow with my deepest apologies. I find I haven't listened to a word she has said anyway."

Bralan nodded and went back in the room to offer the Princess' excuses. Denae and Rayna went upstairs to her chamber where Denae took a post by the window.

<"Are you well?"> she thought to Jorgarn. But she received no reply, just a feeling a calmness across their link. She was still sitting in the same spot, staring at the same section of water, when she saw the ship for the first time as it crested the horizon. Jorgarn would be home shortly.

<"Are you well?"> she thought again.

<"Relatively,"> she heard. <"Tired and a little ill but I'll be well soon enough.">

<"Oh, thank the Creator!"> Denae thought, her unfocused eyes fixed on the ship. <"I felt it, my love. I felt the pain. Well, I didn't feel the pain. I felt you feeling the pain.">

<"It's fine,"> Jorgarn replied. <"I suffered a scratch and Eslada is not the best medic in the world. I think she is getting me back for when I broke the chain on a locket she was given by her mother when I was a young boy.">

Denae's soft laughter brought the others to her side. They, too, saw the ship.

<"Are the rest well?"> Denae wondered.

<"Perfectly, not a scratch on them,"> he replied. <"Every man performed admirably and every man is coming home in the same shape he left.">

<"Except for you,"> she thought with a trace of anger. <"You are the commander. You are supposed to put others in the front.">

Denae relayed the news to the others before returning to Jorgarn. She sensed his frustration at her outburst.

<"Sorry,"> she said. <"You know better than I do about what needed to be done. It's just my reaction to you being harmed when no one else was. I need to alert father. I can see your ship and you should be on land in a short time.">

<"That will make Pernice very happy, I think,"> Jorgarn said. <"He has been green for the past day.">

Denae's spirits rose at the levity she felt from Jorgarn.

<"I am going to nap for the rest of the voyage,"> Jorgarn said. <"I have not slept well in days. I think I am missing my warm bed partner.">

The girls wondered why the Princess blushed but they couldn't help but notice the broad smile that crossed her face.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 23



King Landor sent runners to the families with guardsmen on the ship and Torbert went to the training grounds to round up the rest of the Noble and Emertland Guards. The scene when the ship was pulled into the dock was almost chaotic.

The men had witnessed the mob growing and had requested they be allowed to wear full battle regalia when disembarking. Jorgarn saw no harm since the men would either wear it or carry it. Once dressed, the guardsmen stood tall and proud on the deck of the ship while the ropes were tied to the moorings.

Gorin and Melodart, who wore only their tunics and not their armor, escorted Eslada down the ramp first and Pernice followed leading the rest of the men. Families rushed forward to greet their sons but the Guards maintained their ranks until Pernice brought them to a halt in front of King Landor, Queen Lorida, Princess Denae and Sir Torbert.

"Your Royal Majesties," Pernice said loudly. "Your Guard returns after an unmitigated success. The conspirators are slain without harm to our relationship with Longview or to Domita. We await your next command."

The King beamed proudly at his brother.

"On behalf of Emertland and its citizens, I offer my thanks and my congratulations on a job well done," King Landor said. "To each and every man, I say thank you for the valor you have shown and your dedication to Emertland. I dismiss you to visit with your families and your loved ones."

Jorgarn had slipped down the gangplank during the greetings and come to rest beside Gorin, Melodart and Eslada. King Landor and Sir Torbert found him quickly.

"Well done!" King Landor said. "Well done, indeed. I have never seen the look of pride on my brother's face that I saw today."

Regardless of the circumstance, he wrapped his arms first around Jorgarn and then around Eslada. Denae had followed her father across, and more aware of propriety, had refrained from hugging and kissing Jorgarn as she wished. The King turned and put his arms around Torbert and Jorgarn. He looked from one man to the other and smiled widely.

"Let us meet the families of these brave men," he said.

Denae had seen the drawn, pinched look on Jorgarn's pale face. She noticed the droplets of sweat above his lip and on his forehead. Like Gorin and Melodart, Jorgarn had eschewed armor and wore only his bloodstained tunic, his overlay and the ribbon Denae had offered him.

"Excuse me, father," Denae said. "I believe one of those belongs with me."

She glanced at Sir Torbert and they both smiled.

"Oh, of course, of course," Landor said as he removed his arm from Jorgarn's shoulder.

Jorgarn flinched noticeably when Denae slid her arm though his. She turned to him immediately.

"A scratch?" she said through clenched teeth. "You do not jump when someone touches a scratch."

"Maybe a bit more," Jorgarn admitted. Eslada let out a noise behind him.

"He has a deep cut running from where his armor ended on his arm to near his elbow," she said. "It has become infected. It is much more than a scratch."

Jorgarn willed Eslada to cease but she spoke more.

"I have done my best to keep the infection at bay but the ship's stores and the medicine in Longview were not up to the task," she said added. "He will need a medic and several days of rest."

Denae cast her narrowed eyes on Jorgarn who was doing his best to look anywhere else.

<"She exaggerates,"> he thought to Denae. <"Honestly, it's more than a scratch but much less than she lets on. I'll show you once we get to the castle.">

"Father," Denae said. "I have learned that Jorgarn was wounded. He needs to see a medic immediately. May we be excused from these proceedings? We will meet each family personally after he is attended to."

"Your Highness," Jorgarn said. "I'm fine."

"You call this fine!" Denae said. She pulled her hand away from his arm to show it was covered in his blood. "He is bleeding through his bandage and his tunic, father. He needs a medic."

The King looked at Jorgarn's shirt with dismay.

"You're wounded," he said. "Yes, yes, Gorin, please take him to a medic. Our carriage is here. Use it."

Jorgarn could see Denae was about to protest.

<You need to stay and greet the families, > he thought. <Their sons went to war for you and your family.>

Denae was displeased but she nodded.

<We will discuss this scratch later, > she promised as she put a hand to his forehead. <You're burning up with fever, as well.>

"Take care of him, Gorin," she said sweetly. "I believe he is too simple to take care of himself."

-------

"It was fine until she grabbed my arm," Jorgarn insisted in the carriage. Gorin simply laughed and handed Jorgarn another cloth to wrap around his arm before blood fell on the carriage floor. "You would think it is to be amputated."

"Oh, it could be worse," Gorin said. "You could have come back and had no one care that you were hurt. Now you will have all your admirers battling to see to your wounds. Although, that last remark from the Princess might have been right on the mark. If I were you, I would have had them take me off the ship on a litter and transported me straight to the castle. I wouldn't have tried to slip off unnoticed."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"I wanted to make sure the right people got credit for their actions," he said. "I noticed you made it a point to exit with Eslada."

"We are not Noble Guardsmen," Gorin said simply.

"All the more reason you deserve praise," Jorgarn responded. "You would have decided to go even if Eslada stayed behind. I know that."

Gorin nodded.

"We would have," he admitted, "because of you. We followed for the same reason the rest of those men did. They didn't go for glory or, really, even for Emertland. They went because you thought it should be done and they thought they were the best ones to help you do it. You have given those men – this Kingdom – reason to be proud. They have sought pride for so long and you have delivered it. I have known Torbert since we were children, perhaps 50 years now. Despite all he has accomplished in the King's name, today was his proudest moment. He saw his Guards standing with their chests out and their heads high. It was not a show. It was real and it will carry over to the rest of the squadrons."

"Perhaps we should fight a battle every 20 years or so just to help them along," Jorgarn said sarcastically.

"If we had gone to battle six months ago, Pietro likely would have won," Gorin replied. "The group's pride had nothing to do with battle. It had to do with knowing for certain they could go to battle. They knew what could happen when they volunteered. There was no fear in those men. You told them it could be done and they agreed. They believe in themselves because you believe in them and they believe in you. That is no small feat."

"But they believed in Torbert," Jorgarn interjected.

"Some of them, yes," Gorin said sadly. "The younger ones, probably not. He is 35 years older than they are. He is another parent to them, not a peer. It is like you said earlier. Much has changed in a generation, let alone 400 years. They respect Torbert but they doubt he could lead them in battle. They do not doubt you in the least. You and Torbert will make a fine team in leading this group. Now, let's let the medic have a look at your arm before the Princess finds out we're dawdling."

The medic had expected several wounded soldiers and was surprised when only Jorgarn arrived. She was an older woman with a severe face and a cold personality.

"Just you," she said. "Where are the others?"

"There are no others," Jorgarn replied. "I am the only one."

The medic looked around at her wasted preparations and her perpetual frown deepened.

"Well, let's have a look," she said. She roughly cut away Jorgarn's shirt – his best shirt, he lamented – and unwrapped the bandages.

"Amateurs," she hissed. "Who attended to this? Let me guess, you took care of it yourself."

Jorgarn was tempted to set up a confrontation between Eslada and his hag but he demurred.

"I tried but I am no medic," he said.

"Obviously," she said as she poked and prodded. "Well, at least you cleaned it halfway well. This is going to hurt."

Jorgarn seriously doubted it would hurt more than her poking had and he sent a silent thanks to Eslada for the compassion she had shown when she cleaned it earlier.

"When did the fever start?" she asked.

"Last night, early this morning," Jorgarn answered. "I've kept it covered. I didn't think it would get infected."

"Covering an open wound with a dirty rag is worse than leaving it open," she said with a shake of her head. "Well, at least we've caught the fever early. If that infection would have spread you would have been known as Sir One-Arm. I'm going to mend this skin, now hold still."

The woman took a long needle and looped thread through it. Then she proceeded to tie up the wound in Jorgarn's arm, much to his displeasure.

"Take this tea for the fever and keep this poultice on the wound," she said. "Come back in two days and I'll look at it again. If it starts to stink, come back earlier. Be gone with you. I have much to put away."

Gorin had managed to keep the smirk off his lips for most of the visit but he burst out in laughter as soon as they hit the hallway.

"I swear I will die before I visit that witch again," Jorgarn said as he looked at his arm. The wound was closed but the spots where she had jabbed the needle to mend the skin were bleeding considerably. "Where is the nice one? When my back was bleeding, there was a nice young woman who came down and talked Denae through changing the bandages. What happened to her?"

"She is probably an apprentice," Gorin said, still laughing. "So, you'll be more careful next time?"

"You can bet on that," Jorgarn replied.

-------

Jorgarn was sipping his awful-tasting tea and reclining on his own bed when Denae arrived after the ceremonies had concluded. The look that had landed on her face the moment she ascertained the severity of Jorgarn's wound had lessened.

"The medic said you could have lost your arm," she said as she sat at the foot of his bed.

"I think she exaggerates," Jorgarn replied. "Really, the only time it has bothered me is when Eslada or that cow butcher was trying to cure me. That medic has the temperament of a rabid wolf. I'm surprised she didn't just lop off my arm on sheer principle."

Denae smiled in spite of herself.

"Well, I thought about it myself," she said, trying to remain angry but losing the battle. "Now, can you at least hug me with one arm? Keep that bloody thing away from me."

"I'll remember that in a few weeks," Jorgarn said with smile and a tilt of his head.

Denae rolled her eyes dramatically.

"All you ever think about, isn't it?" she joked. "I guess that's OK. I think about it a lot, too. Now, I've been given strict instructions that you are not to get out of bed for two days. I think I can find a way to keep you there but unfortunately, I have evening meal with your soldiers. But don't fret. Bralan has graciously agreed to come to look after you. I'm sure you'll be fine."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"Are you playing matchmaker?" he asked. "If so, do not betroth me to a girl I consider my sister."

"Oh, no," she said. "Perhaps in time, I will select a suitable wife for you. For now, just make sure Bralan keeps her gown on. Just because you consider her a sister does mean she considers you a brother. She is not yet of age at any rate, so behave yourself."

The levity in Denae's voice came through her voice and the link they shared.

"We will speak to Bralan in time," she promised. "I know you feel deep affection toward her but you would not do as her husband. Besides, I'm working on bigger plans for your future."

She smirked again and Jorgarn tried his hardest to penetrate her thoughts. Denae grinned as she continually blocked his efforts.

"Now, now," she said. "Patience, my dear. Now give me a kiss so I can go greet those who return victorious."

"I should be there," Jorgarn said. "I should sit with my men."

"You should rest," Denae said as she leaned forward and kissed Jorgarn firmly on the lips. She lingered there, seemingly unwilling to break the physical connection. Her tongue licked his lips and her hand snaked down his chest to the string that tied his lower clothing. She deftly untied the string and slipped her hand inside. Jorgarn gasped as she stroked his member, which hardened beneath her touch.

"I'll get this nice and hard so Bralan has something to look at," Denae whispered. "She will run in fright when she sees the size. She is much too small to accept this. Now Usala, she could, I'll bet."

Denae's hand had stopped stroking the organ but instead was gently squeezing it.

"Do you think Usala would make a good bride for you?" she whispered as her tongue licked his bottom lip again. "Maybe Riset, she probably couldn't take it all without much pain but I'm fine with that. Maybe I'll let her have you for a night. I'll bet that smirk she wears would be gone the next morning."

She felt Jorgarn's penis start to wilt.

"Don't like that idea?" she asked breathily. "How do you like this?"

Her head darted downward and she took as much of Jorgarn's member into her mouth as she could fit. Denae's head did not stop bobbing until Jorgarn's seed filled her mouth.

Denae smiled wickedly as she licked her lips and swallowed greedily.

"I missed that," she said as she dipped her head back down and took the remaining drops of his spend into her mouth. "I think I'll give Bralan a kiss on the cheek when she gets here. Do you think she'll know what my breath smells of? Do you think that anyone at dinner will know that I pleasured my Knight before I came down?"

She slapped Jorgarn's hand away as he tried to sneak it up her gown.

"I have to run," she said after she gave him another kiss. "Take care of Bralan and I'll be back to take over your care as soon as I can."

With another kiss, Denae was out the door.

-------

Denae had not intended to take things so far with her lover. She had planned on a small kiss to let him know she missed his presence and she was happy that he had returned safely to her side. But once her lips met his, it was if something had gone awry in her brain.

One kiss had turned into two; two into 10. Ten kisses could have turned into 100, because she felt it.

It was not a sense of lust and longing that she knew she could bring forth in him. She had felt the dismay in his mind when he considered being married to Bralan.

She felt no spark of excitement from him when she mentioned completing the sexual act with Usala, who was beautiful by anyone's account. She felt only revulsion when she spoke of Riset, who would turn the heads of many men.

She had seen, vividly, the picture in his mind when he joked of her egg time. It had excited her to think of him using his mouth to part her flower petals. But she felt his love for her radiating from him when she neared him.

Love.

It was not the sense of deep affection that she knew he possessed. He loved her and he would have given anything he had to be able to be the only man to lay with her. He loved her like she loved him.

She continued to joke with Jorgarn but even then, she knew what she would do. If there were time, she would have climbed atop him and cemented their lives forever. She would have given her purity and her virtue to him in that very bed, with the smell of that awful poultice assaulting her nose.

But she could not even remember what she found revolting about the poultice. All she remembered was the feeling of Jorgarn's hard member spurting into her mouth and the look of adoration in his eyes before – 'before' – she had lowered her head and taken him there. He loved her not for the fact she was willing to do that for him. He loved her not because she had allowed him to explore her body as she explored his.

He loved her not because she was the Princess or the Heiress. He loved her because she was Denae – his 'beloved' Denae.

Denae struggled to maintain a focus on those around her. She could sense Jorgarn holding a pleasant conversation with Bralan. But his mind was not in the room. His mind was two floors below, with her. He was thinking of her: how she smelled; her morning smile; the soft twinkle in her eyes; the way she always knew what to say to keep him off guard.

She had shielded her thoughts to keep Jorgarn from feeling her excitement but for just an instant, she opened their connection wide.

<I feel the same way about you, > she thought. <The exact same way you feel, my dear one, my love.>

She felt the quick sense of embarrassment that washed over Jorgarn but that was quickly replaced by a sense of warmth.

Then she closed out all other thoughts and turned her attention toward those around her. The sooner she concluded the evening, the sooner she could return upstairs and confess everything to her beloved Knight.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 24



Bralan had gone by the time dinner concluded in the main hall. The laughter and reverie that filled the room was nothing compared to the lightness that pervaded Denae's heart and mind. The time was right for Denae to tell Jorgarn that she had loved him from almost the first moment she met him. She would confess the confusion in her mind about what role he should play in their relationship.

She planned to tell him all the thoughts that had haunted her brain since the week before her installation as heiress.

Rayna caught Denae by the arm as she exited the dining area.

"You will lose him forever if you follow through with what you are thinking," her attendant warned. "You are too far along for confessions. He will never forgive your deceit. All you can do is continue to play along as you have. You mustn't ever tell him what you have considered."

Denae pulled roughly away from Rayna and had raced up the stairs, well ahead of her contingent. She could tell Rayna was still displeased but it bothered her not the least. Leyota was confused at Denae's haste and Denae had seen Usala, who seemed to see and know more than Denae suspected, pull the younger girl aside and whisper in her ear.

Leyota had smiled her wonderful smile – a smile she rarely used until she came to the castle – and giggled merrily. The warm sound of the girl's happiness was still ringing in Denae's ears when she knocked once on Jorgarn's door and then entered.

As he did every time he saw her, Jorgarn smiled warmly.

"Dinner went well?" he asked at the sight of Denae's gleeful expression.

"I think so," she said as she crossed the room, hurriedly lifting her gown over her head. It was one of her finest but she didn't care if it was in tatters when she finished.

"Princess," a small voice said from behind her. She recognized Leyota even though the gown was caught on her shoulders and her eyes covered. "I came to help with your buttons. Jorgarn has but one arm and cannot."

She felt small hands on her back and her face flushed. But Leyota obviously knew where Denae was headed and she obviously didn't think it wrong. She felt the restriction around her shoulders ease but when she turned to thank Leyota, she only caught the door closing again.

The gown settled back around Denae's shoulders as she blushed furiously.

"I have not met that one," Jorgarn said. "Pretty girl, she seems to be the model of discretion."

Denae sat beside Jorgarn, her haste to undress abated for the moment.

"That is Chicote's sister," she said. "The nice one."

"Ah," Jorgarn said as he took Denae's hand and caressed it. "He said he had one sister I'd hate and one that I would like. I can see he was right. I actually did meet her when she arrived. But I didn't get the chance to speak to her."

He considered something for a moment.

"I wonder if Riset knows she would probably be equally as pretty if she smiled once in a while," he asked idly. "Did you meet Fieth's sister? I didn't get the chance. I wanted to because Elobert says she is a nice girl."

Denae smiled.

"You danced with her, silly," she said as she enjoyed the feeling of his hand in hers. "She is really shy. She was the girl who was sitting by herself at the first, no, the second, party we went to afterward. She is, well, plain, I suppose."

Jorgarn thought for a moment and Denae could actually see the memories flash in his head. Suddenly a picture of Saneth Fieth entered both of their thoughts.

"She is very nice," Jorgarn said with a frown. "I didn't find her plain. I found her far more attractive than Riset Renoit. She didn't even introduce herself. She certainly didn't regale me with tales of who she is and how important she will become. In fact, we spoke mostly of you. You should befriend her, I think. Elobert says she is no friend of Riset's and she might be a very useful ally."

Denae pulled Jorgarn's hand up to her cheek.

"You have gained a firm grasp on not only the situation but the personalities," she said. "I believe the same. Unfortunately, her parents dragged her away before I could speak with her. It's an odd situation. The Renoit parents are extremely loyal to my father. But Riset is not. The Fieths are unhappy with the changes my father has put into place. Yet Saneth seems to appreciate them. But enough of political talk, we can speak of such things during the daytime when there are others around us."

She stood and allowed her gown to drop to her feet. Despite her earlier haste, she picked it up and hung it gently over a bedside chair after checking to ensure it was not ruined during her ill-fated attempt to remove it.

"I desperately would like to bathe," Jorgarn said.

Denae frowned at him. He was not supposed to move from the bed except under very limited circumstances. He most certainly was to refrain from getting his new mends wet.

"I'll be careful," Jorgarn promised. "I'll hold my arm outside the tub. I have not had a proper bath in three days. I bathed in an ice cold stream the last time and I can assure you it was quick."

"And probably why your arm is in the shape it is," Denae replied.

"The arm is in this condition because the knife was dirty and so was the trek to Domita," he said ruefully. "I did not follow Eslada's instructions to keep it clear of dirt and to rinse it with alcohol frequently. Now, if you will allow me to bathe, I promise to return shortly."

He arose from the bed before receiving an answer. His lower clothes fell to the floor because Denae had not retied them before she departed for dinner. She started to laugh but she stopped when her eyes lit upon his back. There was a criss-cross of jagged scars running from his shoulders to the bottom of his ribs. She had never had the chance to inspect Jorgarn's back in the light.

"Lie back down," she said quietly. "I'll warm the water for you."

Jorgarn started to retrieve the clothing that had fallen to floor.

"You might as well leave them off," Denae said, her happiness returning quickly. "I don't think you'll require them for your bath."

She raised her eyebrows.

"Or when you return to your bed," she added with a wink.

Denae closed the door to the privacy chamber and opened the valve to the sun-heated cistern above them. It would take a while for the water to warm so she began to inspect the room. It was the same size as hers but held far fewer items. She smiled to herself when she wondered if the tub was large enough for both of them. Then a plan firmed in her mind.

"Come," she said as she opened the door. "I've decided in the interest of safety, that I will assist with your bath."

Denae knelt behind Jorgarn as she sat in the tub. Her cheek was next to his as she washed his chest and his uninjured arm. The cloth slipped from her hand when she began to wash his stomach and lower. She loved the power she felt in knowing that she could make Jorgarn become erect with just a touch.

"Let me wash your legs," Denae said as she changed ends. "Keep your arm out of the water."

As she stood, she noticed her chemise was wet and nearly transparent. She bit her lower lip as she pushed the straps off her shoulder and let it fall to the floor. She stood in front of Jorgarn and reveled as his eyes took in every inch of her.

"Is your egg time concluded?" Jorgarn asked.

"Mostly," Denae replied. Her flow had almost gone and she had left the heavy pad behind that day.

"Forget my legs," Jorgarn said as he slid slightly lower in the tub. "Please come back to where you were before."

Denae walked to the head of the tub again and stood. She watched as Jorgarn tilted his head backward over the edge.

"Step forward just a bit," he said.

Her flower was directly over his face. He could see her woman's tunnel and she felt his breath on her skin. Jorgarn took the warm cloth and ran it over her mound and Denae shuddered. Then his tongue probed delicately at the spot just above the junction of her legs.

She gasped and she felt her legs weaken. Nothing, not even Jorgarn's hands, had felt this good. Jorgarn's mouth traced a gentle pattern over her nub. She felt his tongue separate the petals of her flower and lick the nectar that came forth. Denae found herself leaning forward, her hands resting on Jorgarn's chest as he licked her special spot. Stars swam before her eyes when she felt his right hand on her rear cheek pulling her toward him.

She worried that she would lose control and topple forward into the water. Or worse, her legs would collapse and she would crush Jorgarn's neck into the base of the tub. She took her hands from Jorgarn's chest and gripped the side of the tub firmly as her release washed over her. Her legs quavered when she pushed herself back to standing. She thought but a second before she stepped into the water with her Knight and lowered her body to his.

She captured his mouth and tasted the tangy, sweetness that she knew was her own nectar. She felt his hardness so close to her opening, so close to the place she wanted it. With the slightest shift of her hips, the head was pressed in exactly the right spot. She was prepared to press backward, to accept his maleness into her womanhood when she felt Jorgarn's hand reach between their bodies and shift his erection forward, trapping it between their bodies.

Her body seethed at the loss until she felt his slick organ rubbing against her special bump again. She shifted her waist forward, pressing her breasts into Jorgarn's chest until the tip of his organ was back at the entrance to her tunnel.

Again she tried to push it into her but, once more, she felt Jorgarn's arm, this time on her rear, holding her forward.

"I want this," she said urgently. "Please, love. I want this."

"We cannot, and you know we cannot," Jorgarn whispered between kisses. He shifted his hips slightly and his hardness was no longer beneath her but behind her. She felt it against her rear and the conversation about how women please their man and remain pure popped back into her mind.

It was Denae's turn to move slightly and she felt the head of Jorgarn's penis against her rear hole. She had played with her rear hole before, although not as frequently as she played with her front hole. She even slipped a candle into her back passage periodically. It wasn't as intense as the pleasure she got from rubbing her special spot, but she had found it pleasurable, particularly when she rubbed her mound while she did it.

She reached her hand behind her and found Jorgarn's hardness. It was much thicker than a candle, she reasoned, but she thought she could take it, perhaps more of it in her back hole than in her front.

She pressed the head insistently and felt her passage open to accept it. A flash of pain crossed her face and, as before, she felt Jorgarn's arms remove her from where she wanted to be. This time he pulled her forward on his chest.

"I can take you there," she said pleadingly. "Please, I want you inside my body. I want to feel you inside me while I kiss you."

Jorgarn placed his lips on Denae's forehead.

He had seen her image of a candle entering her rear. He had followed along her process.

"I will not hurt you for my pleasure," he said simply. "I care for you too much for that."

She felt his finger rubbing her back hole and she shifted backward until it pressed slightly inside of her.

"I like it," she said, her face flushed partly from embarrassment and partly from desire. "I, uh, I've taken things in that passage before."

"I know you have, my sweet," Jorgarn said as he shifted his finger slightly and, coupled with his slick penis against her woman hole, Denae gasped. "But it will hurt and, well, the water is perhaps not the place for this particular event."

Jorgarn had witnessed farmers use water to clear blockages from their animals' rear passages. He knew what to expect and he didn't think Denae did. But it was not the time to discuss such matters.

"Can you sit on the edge?" Denae asked. The bath was forgotten. "I want to take you in my mouth again. Please, I want to feel it."

Jorgarn heard the pleading in her voice and extricated himself. She didn't wait for him to sit, but knelt in the tub and sucked him deeply into her warm mouth. She could taste herself even on his member. The water had diluted the taste some but she still found it decadently wonderful.

She pulled back for a moment and waited for Jorgarn to sit. She turned her back to him and slid her wet, slick woman hole over the entirety of his hardness before turning and taking him again in her mouth. She loved the taste of their joining.

Images flitted through Denae's mind as she was lost in her sexual delirium. She was lowering her waiting body onto his organ. She could almost feel the exquisite pain and pleasure from their first coupling.

Then she was sitting astride Jorgarn's face, her knees resting on either side of his head as he pleasured her again with his tongue. Her hand entered the water and she rubbed her mound. Another picture entered her head.

Bralan was kneeling before Jorgarn, accepting his member into her mouth as he split Denae's petals with his tongue. Then Denae was before him as he mounted her like a stallion in her rear hole while Usala stood astride her and accepted his mouth on her flower.

She pictured a grown Leyota standing behind her, caressing Denae's soft breasts as Denae rode Jorgarn. Then Jorgarn was atop Denae, pressing his firm organ into her woman tunnel as Denae used her mouth on Rayna's soft petals.

She felt Jorgarn spurt into her mouth as her own release washed over them and suddenly it was just him and her again. The fantasies dissolved around her as she slid forward in the tub and held him. It was just the two of them, all either would need, she decided.

Much of the water had splashed out on the floor and Denae found she could put her head on Jorgarn's shoulder without trouble.

His hardness had wilted but once again, her proximity brought it back to its former state. It pressed against her opening and she enjoyed the feeling of it as she relaxed.

"You will be the only one who ever knows if we don't stop here," she said as she felt her opening widen. "It is you I'll marry. It is you I love. It is why I wanted you to be Lord Tremaine, so we may be like this forever. It is me that I've selected to be your wife."

She could almost hear the pieces click together for Jorgarn.

"Your father will not approve," he said softly into her hair. "He accepts me as your lover, I think. But I don't believe he will accept me as your husband."

"He knows and he approves," Denae said as she tried in vain to get more of Jorgarn into her tiny opening.

Jorgarn resisted further and finally fell back onto something he knew would work.

"This is starting to hurt my arm," he said. His arm was fine, resting gently on a small side table Denae had put there for the purpose of protecting his wound. But Jorgarn considered protecting Denae from herself to be an important part of his job. Allowing her to make a decision as important as her marriage when she – and he – was in such a vulnerable emotional state would be to fail her completely.

"Can we discuss this out of the water?" Jorgarn asked.

If he had not been aware of the situation – and sensation – around his groin, Denae would have accomplished her aim in her haste to ease Jorgarn's discomfort. She sat back to rise and Jorgarn slid backward with her. Still her felt the tip of his member press more insistently at the spongy opening that covered the entrance to Denae's tunnel.

He heard the pain in Denae's voice when she spoke and he worried that he had harmed her.

"I forgot about your arm," she said as tears sprung to her cheeks. "I am so selfish. I am sorry."

Jorgarn smiled and kissed her softly on the forehead.

"I also forgot about the arm," he assured her. "So I don't see how you could be expected to remember it. But it is still dry so no harm done. I think it just wants some blood."

They stood and Denae held out a drying cloth to him and started to wipe the moisture from his body. It was warm in the chamber but she felt a chill on her skin where she no longer touched his. She smiled softly as her eyes met his.

"Do you wish that we should marry?" she asked. There was a tentative tremor in her voice. "Will I be enough for you?"

Jorgarn couldn't help the chuckle that escaped his lips. He regretted it when a feeling of pain flashed across from Denae.

"You are always enough and will always be enough," he assured her. "And I do wish it. But we should discuss it, not only with each other but with your father and Sir Torbert. I believe you should ask your friends what they think. I do not believe some of them will be happy at the prospect."

"Bralan is an infatuation," she said with a smile. "She will move forward as she grows. So will Usala."

Jorgarn's eyes widened at the mention of Torbert's daughter.

"Usala?" he asked. "I don't know that I've ever spoken a sentence to her. She avoids me completely. I was speaking of Rayna."

Denae's face turned grim. She had considered Rayna's warning on the way up the stairs and had decided to heed it. There would be time in the future for confession once things worked out as Denae wanted.

"Rayna and I have spoken," she said. "She understands my position on this matter and many others. If she protests, it will be silently or from a distance. Now, let us warm ourselves beneath the covers. That awful-smelling poultice will never see my chamber. So we shall sleep here tonight. Come, love, join me in bed."

-------

The pair, their needs sated, lay side by side on the bed. They were sharing the closeness of the other and their thoughts and feelings across the bond they shared. Each gave a start when a soft knock sounded on the door.

"Jorgarn?" a voice he knew belonged to Bralan sounded through the thick wood. "I am about to retire. Do you need anything before I sleep?"

"No, dear," he replied. "I am about to slumber myself. Thank you for your kindness but I am well."

There was a small pause.

"I can sleep in your attendant's room tonight," Bralan said. "That way you'll have someone near."

Denae stifled a giggle but buried her head in Jorgarn's shoulder.

"Thank you, Bralan," Jorgarn said through the door again. "But I am doing fine. I have slept on the cold ground or on a stone floor for the past two nights. I will be fine through the night and I will find you if you are needed. Thank you for your thoughts."

"Good night then," she said.

Jorgarn returned her bid as Denae covered her mouth.

"I suppose I will speak to her in the morning," Denae said once they had heard Bralan's feet leave the chamber. "Thankfully I locked the door before your bath."

She raised her eyebrows suggestively.

"I could have avoided the necessary talk if she had witnessed our games," she said.

"Or, depending on what you were thinking, you might have asked her to join us," Jorgarn said.

"You saw those?" she asked as she flushed and closed her eyes. "They don't mean anything. I just think things like that when I'm close to release."

"I know," Jorgarn said. "But they were very clear. Usually your thoughts are not so..."

He searched for the word.

"They're not so decadent," Denae supplied. She looked down at the bottom of the bed until he lifted her face to meet his eyes.

"I wasn't thinking that," he said. "I was saying that I usually have to concentrate very hard to get such clear thoughts. Mostly, I can hear what you're thinking but I have difficulty with what you are picturing. This time I did not."

Denae lowered her head again. She understood what Jorgarn was saying only too well.

"When you eat toasted bread for breakfast, you always picture it with fruit spread," she said. "Always. We don't use that here, so you don't eat it that way. But you always wish you had fruit spread. Because you think that thought often, I can see the image in your head. I don't have to push to find it. I often think the things I thought tonight. They are fantasies I have used several times to achieve release. They are clear in my mind so they are clear in yours."

Jorgarn considered the implications to Denae's words.

"You have been together with those girls?" he asked. Neither Bralan nor Usala was of age but he didn't know if the prohibition on sexual contact extended to other females.

"No," Denae replied rapidly. "I have not been together with them. I barely know Bralan and Usala is my cousin. Leyota has barely started to grow breasts. Of course I haven't."

The Princess sounded angry, as if Jorgarn had accused her. It wasn't what he intended.

"I was merely asking," he pointed out. "I did not cast aspersions on the action or the thought of the action. I was uncertain if age was a consideration in such matters. That is all."

He felt tears on his chest.

"You think me disgusting," Denae said.

"I don't," Jorgarn replied with a kiss to the top of her head. "If they are mere fantasies, there is no harm. I don't suppose there would be harm if you had acted upon them – so long as everyone was discreet. Everyone has fantasies. It's just odd that we can share ours with the other."

Denae raised her head up and looked at him. The tears still wet the corner of her eyes but the twinkle had returned.

"You did not ask about Rayna," she said. "Did you suppose that is the source of her difficulty with you? It is not the case, by the way."

Jorgarn smiled down at the Princess.

"I spoke to Pernice about Rayna," he said. "Actually, he spoke to me about her. She is in danger of losing him. He will not marry her if she expects him to leave the Guard to do it. I hope she understands that."

Denae sat up on the bed.

"Pernice knows of Rayna's unhappiness?" she asked with a tilted head.

"Of course he does," Jorgarn said as if it were obvious. "He loves her so he pays attention to her actions and attitudes."

He offered another warm smile.

"As I do with yours," he finished.

"You say that because you want to kiss me again," Denae said as she leaned forward and did just that. She was worried that he might indeed have seen some of the thoughts that had come upon her in recent weeks. "But no further. At least not until you tell me your fantasies."

"You, mostly," he said with a slight shrug. He was naïve but he wasn't that naïve. "A nice happy life, children."

"Those are goals," Denae insisted. "I showed you the deepest recesses of my mind. What would you like to do if no one would ever find out? Who would you like to do it with? Would you like to bed Eslada? How about Lorida? If you could have me in bed with anyone else, who would it be?"

Denae had rested her elbows beside Jorgarn's head and her face was inches from hers. He could see desire battling with curiosity in her eyes.

"I don't think of Eslada that way," he said. "No more than you think of your father or your uncle that way."

Denae blushed.

"I used to like to sit on Torbert's lap and shift around," she confessed. "I was 11 or 12 years old and I could feel him harden beneath me. I have thought of him that way. My father, too. So, have you even wondered what it would be like to lie with Eslada?"

"When I was a boy, perhaps," Jorgarn admitted. "But we are closer now that we ever were in Longview. Additionally, it is different for a boy. No one would know if I bedded one woman or a hundred. As the Lord's son, there were many who would offer their charms to me."

Denae's mouth dropped.

"So, you have... ," she faltered.

"No," Jorgarn said at once. "But it was possible several times, particularly as I got older. You are the second girl – and first woman – I've kissed. I once played with the breasts of a young woman whose mother worked at the manor. That is the whole of my experience – as my fumbling with you should attest."

"You do not fumble with me," Denae said. "Your hands and mouth feel wonderful! The girl you toyed with, was she pretty? Picture what you did with her."

An image of Jorgarn licking and suckling the nipples of large-breasted girl entered Denae's mind. She gasped when she considered what it might be like to have his mouth on her breasts.

"She is well endowed," Denae said after she shook the image from her mind. "What was her name?"

"Seela," Jorgarn replied. "She was 14 and I was 13. Her mother caught us and she was sent to live with an aunt somewhere."

"Do you wish I looked like that?" Denae asked, her eyes glancing downward at her breasts, which were barely the size of a lemon.

"No, I wish you to look like you," Jorgarn said. He had never compared Denae to anyone in his mind. "You would look silly with udders. You are tall and slender. You would stoop over if your chest were that large."

"But I know men like large bosoms," she insisted. "I've seen the serving girls at the tavern displaying their wares. Even Lorida and Eslada dress to accentuate their breasts. Their bodices are much lower than mine are – than mine ever will be."

"I suppose," Jorgarn answered. "But that doesn't make what you have any less impressive – at least not to me. I enjoy the package but I enjoy what is inside the outer wrapping more. I do not say that because I find you anything but tempting but only because I want you to understand that it is as much about what you are as how you look."

He felt a warmth wash across him as Denae pondered his words – and his thoughts – and found them to be true.

"So you do not wish I had long blonde hair like Bralan?" she asked. "Or a round rear like Usala? Maybe bigger breasts like Rayna or a beautiful smile like Leyota's?"

Jorgarn shook his head.

"I am glad you look as you do, Dearest," he replied. "I like nothing better in this world than to look at you. I enjoy looking at your hair, just as it is. I especially like it in the morning when you first wake up. I don't see how you could believe I would like anyone's bosom or rear more than yours. And your smile always melts my heart. I would change nothing on you."

"Do you like my breasts enough to kiss them like you did Seela's?" Denae asked with a mischievous smile.

"I do not think Seela enjoyed my attention to her breasts much," Jorgarn admitted. "She said I was rough with them. If you will tell me if I am doing it right, I would kiss your breasts gladly."

Denae shifted her weight and threw her leg across Jorgarn's midsection. Again she felt his erect member pressing into her slit and she slid forward and backward a time or two, enjoying the sensations it sent through her. Ultimately she slid forward and lowered her tender breasts to Jorgarn's lips.

His tongue circled the outer area of her right breast while he used his uninjured arm to gently massage the nipple on the other. Denae gasped in delight when Jorgarn's teeth scraped across her protrusion. She liked the way his slightly rough fingertips felt against her sensitive nub and she found it difficult not to move her hips against Jorgarn's waist. She felt his lips leave her breast and latch on to the other. He tried gently suckling the nipple and Denae's hips seemed to move of their own accord across Jorgarn's smooth stomach. She felt his hand on her leg and his thumb found her special spot with gentle, practiced ease.

Jorgarn felt the warm moisture that Denae's tunnel released pooling between them. With a grunt, Denae grabbed his hand and pressed it tight against her hole. She rubbed her warmth against his palm as she pulled his head to her breast tightly. Jorgarn found his hand soaked with Denae's sweetness and his slickened finger slipped between her petals and into her flower.

"Creation!" Denae whispered as she neared release for the second time. This one promised to be impressive. "Bite my nipple softly. A little harder. There. Again."

Jorgarn glanced up to see Denae's eyes closed tightly but here were no images coming across their connection. His finger was almost entirely inside of Denae and he wiggled it gently. Denae claimed a sharp intake of breath.

"Do. That. Again," she whimpered. "Please. Again."

Jorgarn complied and she gasped again when he timed a bite of her breast bud and a flexing of his finger right when her sensitive spot was over his palm. Denae felt the release coming. Her final shift of her hips brought her rear hole in contact with Jorgarn's member. She felt the wetness from the tip on her back entrance and pushed back with more urgency. She released when the very tip of his organ entered her bottom opening.

Denae's body shook and she felt like every portion of her skin had been touched at the same time. She longed to have more of Jorgarn inside her and she pushed back harder against him. The pressure and pain heightened her sensations. She felt his penis in her rear; his finger in her front and his mouth on her breasts.

With a shudder, Denae collapsed across Jorgarn. His member was free from her hole but his finger was deeper inside of her than hers had ever managed. The pressure of his hand against her special spot was exquisite. Her eyes still closed, Denae searched for Jorgarn's lips and found them quickly. She reached behind her and directed his member back to her rear passage but she found she was too low to accommodate entry. Sighing, she settled for feeling the hardness press between her cheeks and the warmth of it against the entrance to her cavity.

"Fumble, you said," she gasped as she broke their kiss. "You know exactly where to touch me. You know exactly what I like. I love you. I love what you do to me."

She reached behind her and found the coverlet that had been pushed down in her haste to get atop her lover. Denae pulled it over her back and settled in to sleep.

She awoke briefly and noticed the candle had burn itself almost out. There were only flickering hints of light in the room, so Denae knew she had slept at least a few hours. She lifted her head and felt the puddle of drool that had slipped from her mouth during the night, so she knew she had slept soundly.

With much regret, she lifted her body off Jorgarn's. The cool night air chilled the areas where her slick wetness had lain. The smell of her arousal wafted to her nose. It was a smell she had grown increasingly familiar with in the months since Jorgarn Elmwood entered her life. She kissed his slumbering cheek softly before heading to the privacy chamber for a rag to clean their bodies.

Her rear hole was slightly sore and she felt a little tenderness between her legs when she walked. But, all in all, she believed her experience to be worth some discomfort.

She was gratified that she hadn't had the chance to empty the tub. Jorgarn would certainly need another bath in the morning. She smiled as she recalled the events in that very tub earlier in the night.

The tea the medic had given Jorgarn would assure him of almost dreamless sleep, but he awoke slightly when Denae wiped her drying nectar off his waist and her drying saliva off his shoulder.

"Sorry," she whispered. "We were sticky."

"S'OK," Jorgarn replied sleepily. "It was fun getting that way."

Denae felt slightly wicked as she pressed her nude body as close to Jorgarn's bared torso when she lay beside him again. She kissed his chest lovingly.

"It certainly was," she said softly before falling back to sleep.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 25



It was morning before Denae stirred again. She blinked her eyes in the sunlight and wondered why no one had awakened her. She felt Jorgarn rouse beside her.

As always, he smiled at her as soon as he opened his eyes – as if he had been dreaming of her and awakened to find it was real.

The coverlet had fallen beneath her bared breasts. She felt no shame in presenting them to his inspection. There was no embarrassment in her gait as she got from the bed and walked nude toward his privacy chamber. She glanced over her shoulder to make sure he was watching before bending at the waist and retrieving the chemise that she had tossed casually aside the night before.

Her motion bared her womanly treasures to him but she felt no remorse.

"Do you find me depraved?" she wondered innocently when she turned to him after lowering the chemise down her body.

"Only deliciously so," Jorgarn replied with a smile.

Denae beamed at his clever answer. She was so happy with it that she was tempted to remove the under gown again and rejoin him in the bed.

"You need to dip in the tub again before anyone arrives," she cautioned. "I wiped us off last night but I can still smell my scent upon you."

"Some might say you've marked your territory," he offered. Denae couldn't stop herself from glancing at Jorgarn's midriff, which tented the coverlet invitingly.

"Some might but I'm certain your breakfast steward will not be happy about it," she replied. "So do your morning business and sit in the tub for a few minutes."

"Yes, Your Highness," Jorgarn said with a bow after he arose. The fact he wore no clothes – and his member bounced when he stood – caused Denae to giggle.

Jorgarn disappeared into the privacy chamber and Denae unlocked the door.

"Remember to keep your arm dry," she yelled as she opened the door and walked right in to an ashen-faced Bralan.

Bralan eyes traveled from the Princess' disheveled appearance, down to the slight garment she wore and to the gown – last night's gown – that she carried in her hands.

"Rayna sent me to awaken you," she said as tears formed in her eyes. "She said if you weren't in your chamber to check Jorgarn's."

She stood straight and composed herself before continuing.

"She wants you to know that you will share your morning meal with your father and then you are scheduled to spend the morning with him," she said softly. "You have your rescheduled appointment with Sativa Moret this afternoon."

Denae's heart went out the girl in front of her.

"Bralan, I'm sorry," she said. But Bralan was looking past the Princess. Jorgarn had exited the privacy chamber wearing only his lower clothing before seeing her and darting back inside.

Bralan was startled when Denae wrapped her in a warm hug.

"You were never supposed to find out this way," Denae said. "I planned to talk to you – to explain this to you – later today. I am so very sorry."

Bralan tried to resist as Denae pulled her into Jorgarn's chamber. She sat the girl on the bed before picking up Jorgarn's trousers and undershirt and opening the door to where he hid.

"Put these on and come out," she said with a sad look on her face. Jorgarn could tell she was feeling badly about what Bralan had learned and how she learned it, so he nodded. When he exited moments later, the two were sitting quietly, Bralan on the edge of his bed and Denae in a chair beside it.

"I was told to inspect your arm," Bralan said without emotion. Jorgarn smiled sadly at her before he sat in front of her and lifted the shirt he had just adorned off his body. Denae saw Bralan's eyes go immediately to the scars on Jorgarn's back.

"How did you get these?" she asked quietly as she covered her mouth in shock with one hand and gently traced the pattern with the other. Jorgarn looked down but Denae answered.

"He was punished for something he didn't do," she said. She was surprised when Bralan leaned forward and gently kissed his back before sitting back suddenly. Denae wondered why she had never thought to kiss them – or even touch them – after they healed.

"You both must think me a foolish child," Bralan said in disgust. "I'm sure everyone has had quite a laugh at Bralan, the moon-eyed idiot. How could I have thought you would want me?"

"No," Denae said firmly as she joined Bralan and Jorgarn on the bed. "We never thought that and no one is laughing at you. Personally, I think you are very bright and I believe you have excellent taste in gentlemen. It is more a matter of me getting here first than anything else. I know for a fact that Jorgarn finds you very beautiful – as do I – and we both love you dearly. I hope you never think I would take your feelings lightly or seek to humiliate you. I would not and neither would Jorgarn. Yes, I did assume that your feelings were an infatuation but, then again, I thought that of my own feelings for a while, too. I'm sorry. I truly am. I never meant to cause you pain. Neither of us would hurt you purposefully."

Left unsaid was that someone had attempted to do just that.

Bralan sighed deeply and pursed her lips for a moment before she spoke.

"I have heard my parents speak of the relationship between a Queen and her Knight," she said. "They would joke about Cruit being forced to breed you and if you married a eunuch his son might one day be King."

Bralan felt Jorgarn stiffen but Denae touched his arm and smiled.

"I'm sorry, my family simply exudes class, doesn't it?" Bralan said. "But, as I said, I am aware of what happens with a Queen and a Knight. I have accepted it. If I were Jorgarn's wife, I would allow you to share his bed."

Jorgarn was taken slightly aback but Denae reached out and stroked the girl's cheek, which had a tear running down it.

"Bralan, if it were only that simple," she said. "But, Dear, Jorgarn and I love each other not only as Heiress and Knight but also as man and woman. I have no doubt you would make him a splendid wife but I'm afraid I have reserved that spot for myself."

Bralan's mouth opened slightly to speak but she closed it before words came out.

"Oh," she managed on her second attempt. "You and he are to wed?"

"Yes," Denae confirmed. "Actually, you are the first person we have told outside of my father. I made this decision before you had even arrived here, I suppose. It will be announced in a few months, so I do ask that you keep it quiet. No one – and I mean no one – knows of this. Certainly, some suspect but no one knows for certain except you. So it is the situation and the timing that is wrong, not you. I know that you and Jorgarn will always have a tie that I don't share. You both will have Eslada's influence in your lives and I suspect that you both will be Noble Guards. That will bind you forever to him and to us. I hope you recognize that."

Bralan nodded and gave a brave smile as she stood. She leaned forward and kissed Jorgarn warmly on the cheek.

Denae had also stood and stopped Bralan as the girl walked past. She smiled and pointed to her own cheek.

"I expect one of those, too," she said. Bralan leaned forward and kissed Denae softly but Denae pulled her close for another hug. "Please tell them I will down shortly for my morning meal."

Denae sat heavily on the bed again when Bralan had left.

"I believe I will marry her off to a 90-year-old man," she said with a laugh. "Then she can share our bed whenever our marriage becomes boring."

Jorgarn buried his head in his hands and winced as the mends in his skin pulled tight when he moved.

"She never did check my wound," he said.

-------

Jorgarn expected a return visit from Bralan after morning meal. Denae had limited their connection once she left his chamber but he suspected that she was less than pleased with Rayna for sending Bralan instead of coming herself.

"Enter," he said warmly when he heard a small knock on his door. But instead of Bralan, it was the youngest attendant, Leyota, Chicote's sister.

"I have come to bring you food and to look at your wound," she said. Her warm smile filled the room suddenly. "Not that I would have any idea what I'm looking at. But I suppose I would recognize if your arm were about to fall off."

Jorgarn couldn't help but laugh along with the girl. Standing, the girl came to perhaps Jorgarn's chest and he doubted she weighed as much as a sack of flour. But she was balancing a tray with a bowl of oatmeal, glasses of milk and juice and what appeared to be a half loaf of bread as if she did it every day.

Jorgarn watched as she deftly sat the tray on the table. For a girl so small, she made quite a commotion when she sat down on the side of his bed. Jorgarn extended his hand.

"Thank you, I am Jorgarn," he said. "I have a slew of other things after my name but none of those are important. I know you are Leyota Renoit, but we have never been introduced. I'm certain that I would remember a smile as pretty as yours if we had been."

Leyota rolled her eyes and laughed.

"Perhaps I was frowning when we met," she said. "And your charm has caused enough difficulty, so knock it off. I'm only 11 so you will be an old man before I can swoon over you like the rest of this lot appears destined to do."

The merriment of her face let Jorgarn know she was joking with him but his face reddened with embarrassment anyway. Leyota shook the hand that he had extended – and simply left there as he regained his bearings.

"My brother speaks highly of you," Leyota said.

"And of you as well," Jorgarn replied. "Are you enjoying life at the castle?"

The wondrous smile appeared again as if by magic.

"Up until this morning, I was enjoying it fine," she said. "Far better than my previous home. Life at Renoit Manor wasn't bad while Chicote was there to act as a buffer against Riset. But once he came here, I became the target of her venom."

She was shaking her head before brightening again.

"Now she is third in prestige among us," she said with raised eyebrows and a lilting voice. "She is to be Lady Renoit. Bah! Chicote is a Second to the Knight Protector and I am an attendant to the Heiress. One day I might be one of the most powerful voices in Emertland. She can have that creepy manor with its drafty windows and cold floors. I'll take living in the castle and dining with the Royal Household any day."

Jorgarn chuckled along with Leyota.

"Well, any day but today," she added with a smirk. "Personally, I don't know why she puts up with it. If I were the Heiress I would put a stop to it immediately. But she won't. I have been here a short time but I can see that already. She'll argue and threaten but in the end, the Princess will relent and Rayna will get away with it. That's why I snuck away. I doubt they'll miss me. I don't participate in the drama sessions and I was tempted to smack her on the head with a cooking pot and have her dragged from the castle."

She glanced up at Jorgarn's smiling face and seemed to realize she was speaking aloud.

"A young woman of action!" he said jovially. "To tell you the truth, I probably would have done it your way, too. I might have shipped her off to some awful place and swore to Denae that she ran away."

Jorgarn was rewarded with another smile.

"It's not too late," she said. "I'm sure you'll get your chance. Just let me know when you plan to do it. I'm pretty light on my feet and I'm sure I could sneak up behind her."

She mimicked swinging a heavy object.

"Then off she goes," she continued.

She took a deep breath.

"You won't mention this will you?" she asked suddenly. "I like it here and I know who will be sent packing if I get in that one's way. She did that this morning just to hurt Bralan. She is trying to isolate the Princess from everyone but herself. I can see it and I'm just a child. Why does no one else notice it?"

Jorgarn waved his hand dismissively and checked to make sure that Denae was shielded from his thoughts.

"It has not gone unnoticed, Leyota," he said. "But I believe that Denae wishes to allow Rayna the opportunity to get used to things before issuing an ultimatum. Things have changed greatly here in the past few months and it has been Rayna's influence that was suffered the most."

"It is still petty and childish," Leyota insisted. Jorgarn nodded his agreement. "But Bralan and the Princess came to morning meal arm in arm. The look on Rayna's face reminded me of Riset's when you announced Chicote as one of your Seconds. I thought that might be the happiest day of my life. But when King Landor told my parents that I had been accepted as an attendant, well, it got better. I honestly think Riset wet herself. She was so angry that she turned purple. Now she has absolutely no one to lord over. Rayna is going to find herself in that position shortly. She might be lead attendant but it won't do any good if no one listens to her."

"You're right," Jorgarn said. "It is possible to rule for a short time by might alone but eventually you have to win trust and respect to keep order. Fear only works for so long."

Leyota smiled sweetly.

"You're smarter than I figured you would be," she said. Then she blushed with embarrassment.

Jorgarn laughed.

"Probably not," he told her. "I just tend to repeat what others have told me and swear it is my own original thought. Now did you say something about checking my arm and feeding me?"

Leyota glanced at the forgotten tray and then at Jorgarn's forgotten arm.

"Oh, yes," she said. "I suppose I did. Can you eat first? That way my food can settle a bit in case your arm is ghastly."

The duo shared light conversation about Chicote and his family while Jorgarn ate. Leyota was a pleasant companion and she appeared to be blossoming – as Chicote had – now the she was out from beneath her sister's thumb.

Jorgarn had just pushed the last slice of toast aside – and Leyota had just claimed it as her own – when there was a knock and Eslada entered the room.

She found Jorgarn and a young girl sitting on his bed laughing about something. It was not what she expected to find.

"Mistress Leyota Renoit, may I introduce you to Lady Eslada... ," Jorgarn started and then stopped. "Well, Lady Eslada at any rate. I'm not certain I know what goes after than anymore. It used to be Mistress Eslada Commerly, but then she became Lady Eslada Elmwood, now she is a Lady somewhere but I'll be hanged if I know where. Anyway, she is my oldest sister."

He lowered his voice into a whisper that was intentionally loud enough for Eslada to hear.

"Actually, she is my stepmother but she said she would beat me with a cooking pot if I told anybody she was that old," he said.

The girl's smile caused even Eslada to stare. Coupled with the delight in her eyes and her lilting laughter, the girl had been transformed from a plain, ordinary person into someone who would one day be a real beauty. Eslada couldn't help but laugh along with the playful pair.

"Yes, I am still Lady Longview to you, son," she said, putting emphasis on the last word. She held out a hand to Leyota who shook it. "Don't mind him. He believes himself to be quite charismatic but it is a façade. Once you know him like I do, it will be all you can do to tolerate him."

Leyota's amusement was evident by the twinkle in her eyes.

"Yes, I can see that," she said. "If I hadn't been interested in that last piece of toast on his tray, I would have run away much earlier. Have things calmed any downstairs?"

Eslada's eyes became cold as she said, "They have not."

Recognition came to Leyota's face.

"You're Bralan's new mother, too!" she said.

"I am her guardian," Eslada corrected. "Do you really think I am old enough to have a child her age? Perhaps you better not answer that. That is part of the reason I am here. Sir Jorgarn, I will not tolerate the treatment of my ward this way. I put a stop to Pietro behaving that way toward you and he was your brother. I certainly will not allow a stranger to treat my child in that manner. Would you please express my sincere displeasure to Princess Denae and let her know that any further mistreatment of my ward will result in me pulling her from her duties. I would speak to her myself but I don't think I trust myself to be in the same room with that abominable girl."

Jorgarn leaned toward Leyota.

"Also a woman of action," he said conspiratorially. But his face was serious when he turned back to Eslada. "Lady Eslada, I will register a complaint on your behalf and I will make the Princess aware of your displeasure. I should also add that I will discuss my displeasure at the situation with her as well."

"Thank you, Sir Jorgarn," Eslada said as she sat down beside Leyota. "Now, may I look at your arm?"

"How's your stomach?" he asked Leyota. "It could look ... What did you call it, ghastly?"

Leyota's face had become a mask when Eslada had reverted to formal speech. He tried to let her know that time has passed. It seemed to work.

"I believe I can risk it," Leyota said. "I like to look at ghastly things."

"Which explains why she still looks at your face when she speaks," Eslada chimed in. "Don't worry Dear, I have hoped for years that it would change but his face has looked that way for as long as I've known him."

"Will you adopt me, too?" Leyota asked. Jorgarn wasn't certain she was joking but Eslada played it off as if she were.

"I'm afraid I can't adopt you formally," she said. "I'm certain your parents are quite proud of you and you still want to be able to tweak your sister with your position during holiday visits. But I will promise to treat you as if I were your ... I suppose another blamed older sister while you are in residence here."

"Eslada is collecting brothers and sisters," Jorgarn joked. "First me, then Bralan and Drosset, now you. Am I missing anyone else? You didn't claim Pietro did you?"

"I most certainly did not," she railed. "And just for that, I will not be gentle when I look at your arm."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"This might come as a shock to you," he said. "It certain did to me. But you have been the gentlest person to inspect my wound so far. That horse butcher they call a medic jerked and stabbed and scrubbed until I almost passed out."

"Poor baby," Leyota said but her eyes widened when she saw the jagged line across Jorgarn's bicep that ran down to his elbow. "Creation! What caused that? Did you tangle with a wildcat?"

"A thrown knife, dear," Eslada answered. "Coupled with the fact that he was too stupid to listen to me about taking care of it. Now, sit up Jorgarn. I can't see it in this light."

His movement brought his other scars into Leyota's view and her reaction was the same as everyone's. She gasped.

"You ... you were beaten!" she said.

"Jorgarn, what caused this?" Eslada asked urgently. "You didn't have those when you left Longview. Tell me, now, damn it!"

"Calm, Eslada," he said. "It is nothing. Every Guard received them for an infraction. Mine was a little more severe but all is well. We have made amends."

"I swear to Creation, Uncle or not, I will skin Torbert alive for doing this to you!" Eslada said. "I sent you to him for you learn and grow, not to be beaten like some brigand caught with the Lord's daughter."

Jorgarn sighed but he noticed Eslada was being even gentler with his arm than he had expected.

"It was my idea," he said. "So if you are to be angry with anyone, let it be me. I suggested the punishment as a way to bring the Guard together. If one commits an infraction, all are punished. Things got a little out of hand but it worked well. The changes to the Guard are a direct result from what is on my back. I do not regret them and I would do it again."

Eslada's anger quelled slightly but Leyota's apparently didn't.

"If you couldn't find a way to affect change without getting striped then you are not as smart as I gave you credit for," she said. "And believe me, I did not give you much credit for brains."

Eslada laughed loudly and patted Leyota on the back.

"You are a spitfire!" she said. "I like you. I don't suppose I could convince Denae to put you in charge of Drosset and Merg while Jorgarn is bedridden, could I? Those two are running me ragged."

Leyota tilted her head slightly and grinned.

"I, Lady Eslada, am much too smart to get caught in that trap," she said sweetly.

"Oh, we are going to be great friends," Eslada said. "You, Bralan and I are going to get along just fine. Anyone who gets on our bad side is going to be in for a rough time."

Jorgarn could only hope the castle could withstand the rampage of the three of them.

-------

Denae was still angry when she stopped in to check on Jorgarn before the afternoon meal. But he held up his hand to quiet her before she spoke.

"Your Highness," he said. "Lady Longview stopped by this morning to register her displeasure at the treatment of her ward by your senior attendant. She wants you to know that should this happen in the future, her ward will be removed from her attendant duties and returned to the manor."

Denae's face clouded even more in anger. She closed her eyes and sighed before speaking.

"Please assure Lady Longview that I am aware of the situation and it has been handled," she said. "If she wishes to speak to me about my attendants, I would prefer she comes to me personally. However, given her relationship with you, I understand why she didn't."

"I don't think you do, Denae," Jorgarn replied. "If she would have come to you she would have left with Rayna's head. You have heard stories of Eslada but I have seen it. I saw the look on her face this morning. She would have demanded action and when she didn't get it, she would have demanded Rayna defend herself. Because Rayna is of age and Bralan isn't, Eslada would have represented her ward. She would have hurt Rayna seriously. I do not doubt that and you shouldn't either."

Denae's face went slack.

"She would have sought physical retribution?" she asked, seemingly amazed.

"She would have demanded it if she did not believe your actions went far enough in rectifying the situation," he corrected. "She still might. She will come to either you or me for an accounting of this in short order, perhaps within the hour. If she is not satisfied that you have handled the situation appropriately, it is within her bounds to demand you correct it. If you do not, she is within her rights as Bralan's guardian to seek Tribunal or Reprisal. I didn't think Eslada would get involved but she has. I don't think either of us wants to see Bralan leave here in this manner. But you have a problem that is more serious than either of us suspected. If Rayna restricts her insecurities on me, it is fine. But when she seeks to drive a wedge – to isolate you from the rest of the people on whom you shall rely for many years – it must be dealt with."

He paused.

"At least that is my opinion on the matter," he said. "You have a split developing already. Rayna on one side, Bralan and Leyota on the other. I'm not certain where Usala will fall nor do I know how the remainder of your employees will feel about this."

"Leyota?" Denae asked. "Does she even know of this?"

Jorgarn rolled his eyes.

"Yes, she knows," he said. "Everyone knows. Rayna made certain that Bralan's discomfort was castle-wide. That is what has Eslada so upset. If it were simply a matter of hurt feelings, I don't think she would have gotten involved. But Rayna has apparently made it a point to remark about Bralan's feelings toward me in a disparaging manner to everyone who works here. How is Bralan to be taken seriously as your representative when Rayna has set her up to be viewed as a love-sick puppy?"

"So I have to choose between my oldest friend and alienating your stepmother," Denae said with a look of utter frustration on her face.

"No, you don't," Jorgarn said. "You have to force Rayna to accept that fact that you are the ultimate authority on everything. A threat does no good if you are not prepared to back it up. You say you have spoken to Rayna about her attitude in the past days. I assume that you told her that it would no longer be acceptable for her to act that way. Maybe it would be best to allow Eslada to seek Reprisal. That way you stay out of it and Rayna learns a lesson about acceptable behavior."

"I am responsible for Rayna's actions," Denae said.

Jorgarn knew his next words would create hard feelings but he knew it had to be said.

"Then I suggest it is time you started to act like it and stop allowing her to make decisions that you never would," he said.

Denae cursed at him and fled the room with tears on her cheeks. The plan she had carefully crafted was teetering on the brink of failure because Rayna would not permit her to move at her own speed.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 26



It was well into the afternoon when Jorgarn's noon meal made it upstairs. With all the drama downstairs, he didn't mind. He especially didn't mind when it was delivered by Torbert, Fieth and Renoit.

"Well met, my friends," Jorgarn said warmly. "You have no idea how good it is to see male faces."

Torbert nodded but Fieth and Renoit looked confused.

"I take it you haven't seen your sister, Chicote," Jorgarn said. "Once you speak to her, my words will become clear. Come, gentlemen, sit. Tell me what has happened in the world while my life has become a tragic play before my very eyes."

Torbert laughed and Jorgarn filled Chicote and Elobert in on the barest of details about what was happening.

"That sounds like something my older sister would do," Chicote said with disgust. "What's going to happen?"

Jorgarn shrugged and looked at Torbert.

"If I had to guess, Rayna Clain is going to get her rear stomped by Lady Eslada," Torbert said.

"Oh, will it be public?" Fieth asked a little too eagerly, Jorgarn thought.

"Since Rayna made certain that Bralan was debased publicly, Eslada probably will insist upon it," Torbert answered. "I asked her to come to Jorgarn to make a formal complaint rather than just beating Rayna senseless at the outset. Truly, I hope it doesn't come to that. I believe if Denae were to demote Rayna or to hire someone else to run the staff, all would be forgotten eventually. Short of that, I am unsure of how it will play out. This has created a lot of hard feelings all around. Chicote, your sister is not happy. My daughter is not happy but I have my wife to attend to that. I cannot appear to take sides. Neither can Jorgarn but he can at least advise Denae."

"Oh, that went well," Jorgarn said ruefully. "I found out Denae knows several interesting phrases that a young woman shouldn't. Then she stomped out."

Fieth and Renoit looked at one another daring the other to speak. But it was Torbert who stepped up when Jorgarn sat silently.

"What was your advice?" he asked.

"I told her to stop pretending the she works for Rayna and to make Rayna realize that any action reflects on the Heiress and the Crown," he said. "Perhaps not that nicely but it was what I meant anyway."

The three men laughed. Torbert had a wife and two daughters. Fieth and Renoit each had older sisters. They understood perfectly the difference between what was said and what was heard.

"Perhaps you can fall back on the language barrier again," Fieth suggested. "It's worked well in the past for you."

Jorgarn laughed but shrugged.

"It is Denae's decision to make," he said. "I can offer my suggestions but I cannot force her to take them, nor would I if I could. I was simply trying to suggest that it has been only six days since Rayna's promotion. Denae cannot allow her to get away with this now and expect her to change later. She is setting precedent about who will make decisions and how people will be allowed to act and to treat others. I don't care if Rayna likes me. I cannot be fired and I cannot be replaced. I can be ignored but I am used to that. But someone has to make Rayna understand that is not she who will someday rule Emertland, it is Denae. If Denae is unwilling to do that, I am certain Eslada or Batrix or Lorida is up to the task. I, however, am done with it."

Torbert nodded.

"Well said," he offered.

"I can't wait to get back down to the training grounds where disputes are not settled with rumors and innuendo," Jorgarn continued. "If Fieth talks badly about Renoit, they get out the sparring swords and go at it. If he is malicious, he feels the birch rod. If he is egregious, he packs his gear and leaves."

"I hear Bralan plans to join the Guard next year anyway," Fieth said to change the subject because he could see Jorgarn getting angry, never a good thing in his estimation. "Are you getting much response about the new method of selecting candidates?"

"We will have at least 37 in the next class including 11 females," Torbert said with satisfaction. "Almost all the families with an eligible child who have a son in the Guard are sending another. I expect the number will grow once Court rolls around. Some of the females will not make it unless we seriously lower the standards we talked about or they seriously lower their weight in the coming months. But the males all have a brother, an uncle, a nephew or a cousin in good standing. I am hoping to have time to talk to Jorgarn about opening the female Guard up to commoners. By the way, we need a better name for them."

"Well, we have the Noble Guard and the Emertland Guard," Renoit offered. "Why not the Imperial Guard and the Majestic Guard?"

All eyes turned to him at once.

"It was just a thought," he said quickly. "I mean, I considered it once I heard about it. I knew this conversation would come up at some point."

"A good thought," Torbert said. "Do I hear any dissent?"

He paused for only a moment before continuing.

"I will make the suggestion to His Majesty this evening," he said. "Female nobility will serve in a unit called the Imperial Guard. Female commoners will serve in a unit called the Majestic Guard. Now, how about colors?"

"We stay with green and red, I think," Renoit said with a bit of chagrin. "No reason to set them apart from their male counterparts. If this works, in 20 years they might be serving in the same units."

Again Torbert looked around and smiled.

"Congratulation, Master Renoit," he said. "Subject to the approval of Sir Jorgarn and His Majesty, King Landor – mere formalities, I would think – you have just become the first lieutenant in charge of organizing the Imperial and Majestic guards. I suggest you draft either Melodart or Gorin to assist."

"And perhaps Belad," Jorgarn offered. "He is solid and well-schooled."

Renoit's mouth dropped.

"That was not my intention," he sputtered. "I mean, I don't think I would do well with it."

Jorgarn laughed.

"You're the only person thinking about the organization," he said. "Let the others handle most of the training schedule and goals. You need to plan and stay in contact with the candidates. I will work with you on a letter to send to them in the coming days. That means Fieth, you will have to take on more responsibility with the Noble Guard scheduling. Work together to make sure the grounds aren't too crowded and all that. Renoit gets first choice but I would suggest you take either Melodart and Gorin and perhaps Seni as your assistants."

"I was hoping for Lippit," Fieth said.

Jorgarn shook his head.

"I might as well discuss it here as anywhere," he said. "I think we need to make Lippit our quartermaster."

"Our what?" Torbert asked.

"It is a rank aboard many ships," Jorgarn said. "He is responsible for outfitting everyone and accumulating stores."

Torbert smiled.

"Which means you and I won't have to do those things," he said brightly.

"You are going to be busy enough keeping me from falling on my face," Jorgarn said. "And, well, I'm going to be busy extricating my foot from mouth for the foreseeable future."

The four men were laughing loudly when Pernice stuck his head in the room.

"Come in, come in," Jorgarn said. "We were just discussing the new Guard units. Have you given them any thought?"

Pernice's eyes widened.

"Not a one," he said. "Was I supposed to, Sir Jorgarn?"

Jorgarn waved his hand and the room laughed again.

"No, we have Renoit to do all of our thinking for us," Torbert said. "Thank Creation for that. Otherwise, we would be watching them arrive and wondering where to put them."

"Speaking of which," Renoit said. "We need to segregate the units. I think we might wall off that back section where the unused barracks stand. We can use those to house the Imperial and Majestic Guards. It will put the Emertland and Noble Guards in closer proximity but I think that is a good thing."

Pernice tilted his head.

"I like the names," he offered.

Renoit smiled his appreciation.

"Well, I suggest that every week at this time we meet," Torbert said. "It is an open time for me and Jorgarn for the next two months. The five of us and your four assistants will meet. Oh, and Lippit, too, and whoever he picks to help him."

Pernice counted heads.

"Uh, were you counting me?" he asked.

"Of course," Torbert said. "You will play a big role in the restructured Guards. I assumed you understood that. I'm sorry if it wasn't clear. But that is my intention and I'm sure it's Jorgarn's. I would say within two years, you will be the Emertland Guard commander."

Pernice's mouth dropped and he gulped.

"That might create problems," he said.

"Then we will rectify the problems," Torbert said firmly. "I believe I heard someone say that it is important that we establish from the outset who is making decisions. The fact is, we are. Those who don't like it are free to leave."

Pernice frowned slightly and he turned to Jorgarn.

"Is there a time I may speak privately to you?" he asked.

Jorgarn bit back a chuckle because he saw Pernice was serious.

"My next appointment is with that horrid, hateful medic tomorrow afternoon," he said.

The other three men had an inkling about what Pernice wished to discuss and they wanted to be as far away from it as possible.

"Actually, we are due at the training ground," Fieth said after glancing as Torbert and Renoit. "We got roped into bringing up this layabout's food but we must go. Take care, Jorgarn, and I hope you are back with us soon."

"Me too," Jorgarn said quietly.

Pernice remained standing when the others left.

"Do you mind if I close the door?" he asked.

Jorgarn said he didn't mind and Pernice took a seat and a deep breath.

"I have ended my relationship with Rayna," he said. "Today was too much. I spoke with Bralan several times over the past few days. She is a delightful young woman – and she doesn't look down her nose at me like most nobles. I was appalled when I heard what happened and I am no longer willing to put up with it. The Princess may accept it, but I will not. I hope this does not create hard feelings between you and me."

"No," Jorgarn said. "I'm sorry that it came to this but you told me it might. I warned Denae that I thought you were about through with the games Rayna was playing. I guess that didn't get passed along or if it did, it was ignored."

"Ignored," Pernice stated. "And the Princess was not the only one. I told her that I would not be a party to having my reputation destroyed because she was feeling resentful. She does not accept the fact that you have the power to ruin my career. Although I don't think you would, you could. There is no excuse for the way she is acting and her actions reflect badly on me."

"Why is it that we see that but they don't?" Jorgarn wondered aloud.

"Pardon?" Pernice asked.

"We understand that what we do affects not only us but others," Jorgarn clarified. "For instance, our actions are attributed not just you and me but to Denae and Rayna and Torbert and Landor and Lorida and Eslada and your parents and your sisters. You get my point. Denae is unhappy about what Rayna did. Don't mistake that. But she fails to grasp that it demonstrates that she has no control over her employees. What would you have done if one of our men went outside of the rules we set for them in battle?"

"Depending upon their action, I would have admonished them, punished them or killed them," Pernice said with a shrug. "If they showed up 10 minutes late for a watch, I would speak to them about it. If they ran from the battle, I would have flogged them. If they ran into a village and raped a woman, I would have killed them."

"And if they did it twice?" Jorgarn asked.

"Well, outside of killing them again, I would increase the punishment one level, remove privileges and strip them of rank," Pernice said without hesitation.

"Exactly," he said. "You would not have spoken to them the first time, the second time, the third time and the fourth time. At some point, you would accept that the situation is unlikely to change without more drastic steps. Am I the only one who sees a correlation between our units and a personal staff?"

"Perhaps we look at things differently when dealing with someone we consider a friend," Pernice offered.

"Oh, we do for certain," Jorgarn agreed. "But the offset of that premise is that those we consider a friend are unlikely to put us in a position where we must chastise or punish them. And that is the way I view my friends. I knew that I could count on you to know what to do and to do it. I never once considered for a moment that you wouldn't. Yes, you are an exceptional soldier. But even those who aren't at your level there – Lippit, for example – I never once thought that he would let me down. And if he had, I would have been extremely unlikely to put him in a position to do it again."

Pernice nodded fiercely.

"Which is the point I tried to make to Rayna," he said. "I spoke to her about her actions and I told her the consequences if they continue. They continued, so I followed through with the consequences as much as it pained me to do it. You said it when we were planning the mission to Longview: A threat is only valid if you have the willingness to back it up. I agree with that. It would have been easier for me to sit back and allow Rayna to corrupt our friendship. And I'm positive that was a secondary goal of hers. I'm glad I'm not the only one who understands what I'm seeing. I wondered about it. I heard a rumor that if Rayna doesn't make Restitution there will be Reprisal from Lady Eslada. Is that true?"

"Sadly, I suspect it is," Jorgarn said. "And I hope it doesn't come to that because I fear that Denae will seek to take responsibility for Rayna's actions and that would create a complete mess. Incidentally, do you have anyone you can recommend for my lead attendant? I am going to have to select someone and I know absolutely no one."

Pernice laughed.

"You have asked before and my answer remains the same," he said. "I can offer no recommendation to you."

Jorgarn persisted.

"No uncles or cousins or nephews?" he wondered. "No friends or even friends of a friend? I was perhaps one of the most disliked people in Longview and even I knew people I could recommend for a job. Are you telling me you are no better liked than I am? What a pair we make!"

"We could give up all this and travel to Velotta," Pernice said jokingly. "They are always hiring soldiers. Our lives might be simpler."

"Because they would be much shorter," Jorgarn said. "Velotta is always hiring soldiers because the soldiers they hire are always dying."

"Details," Pernice replied with a laugh. "Why must we dwell on details?"

-------

Jorgarn gathered from the few emotions that seeped through their closed bond that Rayna had not taken Pernice's break up well.

Jorgarn sensed mostly anger and frustration from Denae, but that was what he was feeling too so perhaps it was simply a reflection of his own mood. Jorgarn remained alone in his chamber from the time Pernice left at mid-afternoon until a servant brought his evening meal to him. Once the servant departed, he was alone again the rest of the evening.

He knew better than to risk the ire of everyone from King Landor to Merg by getting out of bed or trying to go somewhere. He felt better and he suspected his fever had ended but he would know more the next day.

He anticipated a long night alone again but Denae slipped into his chamber after dark, undressed and crawled into bed without a word to him.

"Are you well?" Jorgarn asked.

"What do you think?" Denae replied with her back still to him.

"I am blocked from knowing how you are feeling," he said. "It is why I asked. I'm sorry if I stated my advice to you poorly. It was not meant to be construed that I know more about the situation than you do. I simply look at things from a different perspective sometimes. We are not always going to agree but I hope you know that I understand the decision is yours to make. I was not trying to make it for you."

"So you had Pernice make it for me," Denae said angrily as she rolled over.

Jorgarn was unable to roll to face Denae so he turned his head instead.

"I would wager than I was among the last to know about what Pernice decided," he replied. "I was in a meeting with Sir Torbert and Masters Fieth and Renoit about the newly formed Guard units. Pernice stopped by to ask if his decision would affect his future in the Guard. I assured him it wouldn't and that was it."

"We heard you up here laughing and joking about it," Denae said. "The five of you were up here having a grand time then Pernice comes downstairs and tells Rayna he no longer wishes to see her and then comes back upstairs. We heard you. You can't deny it."

Jorgarn closed his eyes and breathed deeply to quell his anger. He still spoke forcefully.

"I believe I have recounted the events as they happened," he said. "If you choose to believe otherwise that also is your decision. If you hadn't closed off our connection, you would know how things happened. If you would open it up again now, you would see I'm telling the truth. Or you would if I would allow you into my thoughts, which I won't. You are welcome to sleep here tonight but you are just as welcome not to. I will not bicker with you about your staff any further. So long as they leave those I consider my family alone and they do not create problems for your safety, so be it. Good night, Your Highness."

"I'm not through discussing this," Denae insisted.

"This is not a discussion," Jorgarn corrected. "It is accusations and denials. You have made up your mind that I am the villain. I will be the villain then. I will not allow this situation to drive a wedge into our working relationship. Nor will it affect the professional relationship I have with Pernice. Since I have no relationship at all with Rayna, it will not affect that either. How you proceed is entirely up to you."

"Let me see your thoughts," Denae demanded.

"Go to blazes," Jorgarn replied angrily. "Trust me or don't. But do not ask me to take sides in petty, childish squabbles between a jealous girl who has designs on power and the innocent bystanders who get caught in her wake. You will not like the side I support but you will certainly know why I support it."

Denae's mouth dropped and she felt her eyes well. She was angry with Jorgarn's retort but she remembered what she had told Rayna not three days prior.

"Eslada wants me to remove or demote Rayna or she will seek Reprisal," Denae said in a calmer voice. "My father and Torbert will support her motion. Will you vote with them?"

"You know I will," Jorgarn answered. "I will vote for Reprisal even if you decide you wish to claim responsibility."

"You can't!" Denae said. "I will insist that you abstain."

"You can insist all you want," Jorgarn said. "Only I choose when I remove myself from a vote."

"You would allow Eslada to claim Reprisal from me?" she asked. She was hurt and angry. She had planned to claim responsibility as a final gambit to ward off the possibility.

Jorgarn simply nodded.

Reprisal was an ancient custom where an aggrieved party could seek physical combat against his (or her) transgressor. Each party was given a wooden staff and seven days to practice. The battle was to first bloodshed. The loser was forced to accept the winner's pre-stated demands. There had never been a death from Reprisal but there had been lost teeth, broken noses, shattered jaws and dislocated elbows.

There was one aspect Denae had overlooked: Jorgarn was her Knight. It would against him that Eslada sought Reprisal if Denae chose to claim responsibility for Rayna's actions. It would not be against Denae. And he would stand stock-still and allow Eslada to batter him bloody if it put an end to this stupidity.

But Jorgarn refused to reveal that fact so as to keep from influencing the decision. It was Denae's choice to make. Jorgarn doubted anyone outside of Torbert and the eldest woman on the Tribunal council would even know the precedent set more than 300 years before. But he knew it. He had the account in the Knight's own handwriting sitting in a bedside cabinet.

"You would let her hit me with a stick?" Denae asked again in wonderment.

"It is a staff, not a stick," he replied. "And you get one, too. It is not as though she simply gets to walk up to you and strike you. You get the opportunity to attack first or to defend yourself. You are allowed seven days to train. I can teach you much in seven days, should it come to that."

Denae lay in the dark, staring at him. She tried to read his thoughts but he had them completely hidden. She could not even sense his emotions, which was rare. She had no idea that Jorgarn could block her so completely, simply because he never had before.

"Will you be angry if I win?" she asked.

Jorgarn shook his head then turned to look at her.

"Will you feel justified if you win?" he parried. "Do you really feel responsible for what was done? Do you really feel it was right? Those are the hallmarks for Reprisal. Both parties have to be in complete disagreement about justification. I've read much on this tonight. You will have to stand before Tribunal and vow that you view the actions you're defending were justified. Are you willing to do that?"

Denae had considered that point but hadn't yet reached a decision.

"I am assessing the justification," she said vaguely.

"Good luck with that," Jorgarn replied. "There is something else you might not have thought about. Eslada is not going to be content with 'hitting you with a stick, ' as you put it. Even if you take Rayna's place in the square, Eslada will find her later. If she doesn't, Bralan will. If Bralan doesn't, Leyota will. You will wind up with only Rayna on your staff. Are you prepared for that?"

"I don't think it will come to that," Denae said dismissively.

"I never want to hear you refer to me as naïve again," Jorgarn told her in a testy voice. "That statement cost you that right. It will come to that. It has almost already come to that. Tell me, did any of your other attendants comfort Rayna this evening?"

"No," Denae said quietly.

"No," Jorgarn repeated. "If I had to guess, I would bet they were with Bralan comforting her. You might have already lost the rest of your staff. Leyota might stay because she doesn't want to go back to her sister. You are going to spend the next 10 years interviewing staff candidates. Well, better you than me. I don't have the temperament for it. Incidentally, Pernice told me Rayna might have a candidate for my staff. Is that the case?"

"No," Denae said quickly. "She does not."

"Oh, perhaps I misheard him then," Jorgarn said. "Or perhaps he was speaking in jest. I miss his humor sometimes. No matter. How about you? Do you have suggestions?"

"Traymer Ducotte," Denae said. "But he is only a candidate for your junior post. You'll need someone solid at the top."

A snort escaped Jorgarn's throat before he could stop it. He almost asked if Denae meant strong at the top like her staff.

"Well, I might run a general advertisement in the village," Jorgarn said. "Do they have to be male?"

"Yes," Denae said hotly. "They have to be male. I will not have you hiring a tavern whore to assist with your baths."

"No one will be assisting with my baths," Jorgarn stated. "Well, with the possible exception of you and that appears to be open for debate at the moment. I was speaking more about scheduling my appointments and that nonsense."

"Because you deem that woman's work?" Denae asked angrily. "Rayna was correct about your Longview breeding."

"It has nothing to do with how highly I value women, although that is dropping with every sentence you utter," Jorgarn said in a cold voice. "It is because a woman made decisions for me without my input for 10 years and it doesn't seem to have changed since I arrived. I figured I should maintain my consistency."

Denae did not reply. She simply turned her back to him and refused to speak. Eventually, both fell into sleep.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 27



Denae had gone by the time Jorgarn awakened from his troubled sleep. There was no sign she had even been there, nor could he sense her presence nearby. She had apparently decided to close their connection altogether.

Denae found three letters beneath her study door when she arrived prior to the morning meal she was to share with her father. All her noble attendants had tendered their resignations. She was angry that Jorgarn, stuck in his chamber, knew more about the situation than she did. She was further angered when the young woman she had interviewed the day previous had sent a note via messenger announcing she no longer wished to be considered.

The Princess, however, got the reaction she expected from her lone remaining employee.

"Of course they will side against me," Rayna said bitterly. "I am a commoner. They have been against me from the start."

"Do you really believe that?" Denae asked. "Or did they turn on you when you decided Bralan's feelings were less worthwhile than your grudge? What do you plan to do if I dismiss you from my staff?"

Rayna rolled her eyes.

"I am the only staff you have left," she pointed out. "You have planned to have me as your lead attendant for the past four years. You really are in no shape to start over without my help. I'm sure Jorgarn has tried to convince you that you can blunder through this with only his help but you know that is not true. I will have you a new staff within a week. I'm already looking for candidates."

Denae nodded and walked away to meet her father. It wasn't until she sat down with him – and saw the look of disappointment on his face – that she realized Rayna had once again got what she had sought. Rayna, not the Princess, would decide who served on the staff.

"Do you plan to accompany Jorgarn to the medic this afternoon?" Landor asked. "I need an understanding of when he will return to duty and if he will have any limitations to his actions. Can you attend to those questions?"

Her father was unusually curt with Denae but she knew why.

"Yes, Father," Denae replied. "I believe he is to report just after midday meal. Are there other things you wish to know?"

"How is his arm feeling?" Landor asked.

Denae realize that although he had inquired as to her welfare, she had not asked of this the previous evening. She tried to sense him to see if he was in discomfort but she came away blank.

"His fever is lessening and I believe he is eager to return to the Guard," Denae answered. "He held a meeting yesterday with Uncle Torbert and three other Guards to discuss the changes. I believe the session went well."

Landor nodded.

"Torbert will brief me this afternoon and I will discuss it with you tomorrow," he told her. "We need to attend to the Symingtons. I want to wait until Jorgarn is healthy enough that he shows no sign of injury. I do not want them to think that they have won anything. But it must be quickly. Please discuss it with him and help him decide when he will be able to assist. By help him decide, I mean that you should discourage him from participating if you feel he is still sick or injured. Please persuade him if you deem it necessary.

"Now, you need to get your house in order. What happened yesterday is inexcusable. Not only have you lost your three best qualified attendants, you have allowed your fourth to alienate your uncle and your cousin. I do not care how you rectify this situation but you must rectify it immediately."

Denae bristled.

"Are you ordering me as to how to conduct my staff?" she said.

"I should," Landor replied in the same angry tone, "because you are doing it poorly. But no, I am simply telling you that it is for your convenience that I permit your staff to live in the castle. This castle belongs to the monarch. As such, I decide who lives here and who visits here. If this situation does not desist, I will make a decision as to who you may have in this dwelling. You and your staff can hold your meeting in the village tavern for all I care because if this persists, the tavern wenches will be all who would be willing to work for you. Enough of this talk. You will shadow me today and watch. If you have questions, save them for later. After midday, I will meet with Torbert. I will expect your report on Jorgarn's status then. Do you have any questions before we start?"

"When am I supposed to discuss this with Jorgarn if you have me being seen and not heard all morning?" Denae asked.

"I am positive you will not be too overwhelmed with what we are doing today to discuss it with him mentally," Landor said dismissively. "Much of what I need to know will be supplied by the medic. Now, we're off."

Denae spent the morning listening to her father's advisors give boring presentations about the status of many things Denae cared little about. She had tried to link with Jorgarn several times but was met with frustration each time. She decided she would deliver his midday meal and speak to him as they ate together.

Rayna was waiting for her outside of her father's meeting area when her morning concluded.

"Ah, you're finally finished," she said. "Good, we have three candidates set to interview this afternoon. One will be dining with us since you already know her."

She took Denae's arm and started to pull her toward the private dining area.

"I cannot this afternoon," Denae said, stopping in her tracks. "I have things I need to discuss with Jorgarn and he has his appointment with the medic."

"He is old enough to find his way there by himself," Rayna chided. "I cannot handle this workload by myself and I already booked your afternoon. We have much to prepare for in the next few days. Now, our first interview is with Lenipa Holts. Here are some of the things we need to discuss with her before we hire her."

Denae looked down at the parchment Rayna handed her.

"I need to speak to Jorgarn before I do anything else," Denae insisted. "I am afraid that you will have to rearrange the interviews you scheduled. Rayna, do not, ever, schedule something like this without my input."

Rayna stopped suddenly, crossed her arms and burst into tears.

"I'm trying to do everything myself," she said. "Can we at least meet with Lenipa? I think she will work out well and at least I'll have some help."

Denae tried unsuccessfully to contact Jorgarn again before she agreed.

"This must be concluded quickly," she said. "And I do not believe Lenipa is as viable as you think. If you recall, I decided that she would not work out when I was doing my initial reviews. I doubt she has changed much in four weeks."

Denae could see that Rayna had spent time coaching Lenipa on the answers Denae expected. Lenipa would often look to Rayna when asked something she didn't know or she found uncomfortable. Denae had decided early in the interview that Lenipa was not a desirable candidate but Rayna kept directing questions that demonstrated when she believed were Lenipa's strengths. Denae realized with anger that the midday meal had already passed and that she had missed the opportunity to speak to Jorgarn before he went to the medic.

"I am finished," Denae said as she rose. "I have wasted more time than I have with this. Lenipa, I do not believe you will be able to work for me. Thank you for your time, but I must go."

Lenipa's mouth dropped and she glared at Rayna – who looked as shocked as the candidate.

"Well, you have another interview in a short while," Rayna prompted when Denae started to exit. Indeed, two new girls had entered and soon the five young women were standing around looking at one another.

"Cancel it," she said. "And if you have scheduled any more of your friends, cancel them, too. I will not have a staff who thinks you are in charge. I need the rest of my day free. Discuss it with me before you bring anyone else in. If the work is too much for you, resign. Now I must go."

She hustled up to Jorgarn's room, hoping to find him there but his chamber was empty.

"Cläda," she muttered without thinking as she hurried back down the stairs and along the west corridor, where her search came to an unexpected end.

-------

Jorgarn expected someone to stop by once his midday meal was done. At least he hoped someone would. After all, he wasn't exactly certain how to get to the medic's ward. He had only entered from outside the castle and he truly had no idea the relationship to where he now stood.

He briefly considered reconnecting to Denae long enough to ask directions but then elected not to. The few times he had tried during the morning to talk to her had been met with stony silence.

He muttered a few choice curses and he descended the stairs. Despite that fact that 10 people had reminded him about his appointment, none seemed to be around at that moment. He had briefly spied Denae, standing with what he suspected was her new staff, in the dining area on his way outside. He didn't stop to chat.

It wasn't until he was outside the castle and trying to decide which direction he needed to turn that he saw someone he recognized.

"Pernice!" Jorgarn yelled, catching the man by surprise. Pernice spun on his heel and, seeing Jorgarn not only out of bed but outside the castle, came back with a frown on his face.

"I will not be caught with you outside by that lot in there," he said. "I would gather that I am unpopular right now but if Torbert caught you outside with me, he'd skin me."

"Do you know how to get to the medic?" Jorgarn asked. "Because I have no idea where her office is."

"You do realize that you are the one who lives in the castle, right?" a puzzled Pernice asked. "Are you feeling OK?"

"That place is a maze!" Jorgarn replied. "Seriously, I think I can find it if I spot the right entrance. But I don't really know where to go from here."

Pernice smiled for what seemed like the first time that day. But he wasn't willing to risk entering through the main door. He led Jorgarn around the side of the huge structure and the two of them set off through a hallway, turning here and there, until they found the door Jorgarn recognized as the medic's. But the door was closed with a piece of parchment affixed to a nail on it.

"You need to go see my assistant," it read. It was the only explanation – which irked Jorgarn slightly – and it gave directions to the assistant's office, on the other side of the castle.

Pernice chuckled slightly but Jorgarn groaned. After 48 hours of battling a fever and an infection, his body was protesting the quick walk they just took. He really didn't relish another hurried dash through the corridor.

Pernice pointed to an exit nearby.

"It will be quicker if we go that way," he said when he saw the tired look on Jorgarn's face. "Not as many turns I think."

Jorgarn handed over the paper and directed him to lead the way.

"You know, she could have sent a messenger," he said testily. "It's not as though I've been hiding."

Pernice laughed again. He was happy to be in the company of his friend – a friend who understood the decision he had made and supported him, not one who either looked at him as if he were stupid or wondered aloud how soon he could ask for a visit with Rayna.

Ten minutes later, they entered another door and Pernice directed Jorgarn to an open door.

"Here you are, safe and relatively sound," he said.

"You might as well accompany me," Jorgarn replied. "If she insists upon severing my arm, I'll need backup. Besides, if she has to dig and probe like the last time, you might have to carry me back to my chamber."

Pernice and Jorgarn entered the doorway and found the smiling young woman who had helped Denae tend to the injuries on his back.

"Ah, Sir Jorgarn," she said brightly. "I am Alite. I'm afraid you are stuck with me today."

Stuck was not exactly the word Jorgarn would have used but he nodded anyway.

"Now, let me look," she said as she took his arm gingerly and checked the poultice. She shook her head. "I don't know why she insists on using mudroot. It has no medicinal value but it stinks like waste."

"You mean it didn't have to smell this way?" Jorgarn asked incredulously.

"No it didn't," the young woman said firmly. "She does that with everything. I used the same herbs in the rub I gave you for your back. I simply left the mudroot out. Did mine smell this horrible?"

"No," Jorgarn said. "The one you made smelled a bit like mint. It certainly didn't smell like cläda."

His cheeks reddened and he apologized quickly. Pernice stood beside him and shook his head.

"This is healing nicely," Alite said. "Very nicely, I'll give you a new poultice you'll need for the next two days. Come back this time next week and I'll cut away the mends. Trinil does much better mends than I do."

Well, at least Jorgarn had a name to put to the old hag's face.

Alite gently scrubbed around the mends and rubbed a warm salve over it.

"This should keep the scarring down," she said.

"Can he come back to duty?" Pernice asked. "We have something that needs his attention."

Alite looked at Pernice carefully. She had seen him around the castle but had not been introduced.

"If he is careful and does not participate in anything strenuous," she advised. "If he bends and flexes this arm, the mend will break and the infection is likely to return."

Jorgarn looked at his friend warily. He knew of no duties that had not been reassigned in his absence.

"The Symingtons," Pernice said with a glance at the medic.

Jorgarn's eyes narrowed.

"That is not done?" he asked. "I assumed it was attended to that evening. I'll bet our present from Domita smells like my arm."

Pernice laughed.

"I transported those to my uncle's farm," he said. "He has a natural cold cave. He uses it to store his marmalade."

He made a face of disgust.

"What is marmalade?" Jorgarn asked.

"It's like butter made from fruit," Pernice replied. "It's not very good."

"Fruit spread?" Jorgarn asked excitedly. "Your uncle makes fruit spread? Can you get me some? What kind does he have?"

"What is fruit spread?" Alite wondered, joining the conversation.

"It is this sickly sweet concoction," Pernice said, his face still twisted in revulsion. "He eats it on bread."

"It is not sickly sweet," Jorgarn cut in. "It tastes delicious. What fruits does he use?"

"I don't know," Pernice answered. "Whatever he has, I suppose. He had some red and some black and some that was orangish. You really like that stuff?"

"I love it!" Jorgarn said with a smile. "Actually, I dream of it, apparently. Do you think he will let me buy some?"

"I will bring you a vat of each tonight," Pernice told him. "I think he figured out what was in the box and insisted I come to get it. I was looking for Sir Torbert to inform him. But, well, I ran into you instead."

"Am I well enough to travel?" Jorgarn asked.

"Not on a horse," Alite said quickly. "If you go in a carriage and sit inside, I suppose you are. But I will wrap your wound. Do not dig though dirt or get it wet."

"Let us go then," Jorgarn said brightly. "I'll hire a carriage. We passed the stables a few minutes ago. How far is it?"

Pernice saw that the color had returned to Jorgarn's face. He wondered if it was the prospect of getting out of bed or the prospect of getting some of that awful marmalade that brought it there. He smiled in spite of himself.

"Are you certain he is in no danger?" Pernice asked Alite.

"Well, I've never seen you drive a carriage so I can't say for certain," the young woman joked. "But so long as he is careful, I see no reason for him to remain indoors. His fever has broken but should it return, he needs to stay in bed until it recedes."

"Do you work tomorrow morning?" Jorgarn asked.

"Yes, I am here all mornings," she replied. "Why do you ask?"

"I will bring you some fruit spread on toasted bread," he said. "I swear, it is grand. I would kiss Pernice on the cheek for providing it to me but I think that would start a scandal."

Alite smiled at Jorgarn for a moment then leaned forward and touched her lips to Pernice's face.

"That is from him," she said with a gesture toward Jorgarn. "We do not need another scandal in the castle. Now, off with you. I'll see you next week or earlier if I am needed."

Pernice's face had reddened but he touched his hand to his cheek as they left.

"One day," Jorgarn muttered in mock anger. "You are alone for one day and you're already fighting them off. I expect to hear no more of my gaggle of underage girls. You have fully grown women throwing themselves at you."

"Do not say that," Pernice said softly. "Rayna would probably have Alite banned from the castle. I dare not express interest in any other woman. It is too soon anyway. But she is pretty."

"Very pretty," Jorgarn agreed. "But you do seem to attract the spirited ones."

"Ha!" Pernice said. "What does that say of your gaggle of underage – and fully grown – women? There is a rumor they all quit this morning. Your admirers, I mean."

Jorgarn sighed.

"I am not surprised," he said. "There is no way this ends well."

-------

Denae returned to Jorgarn's chamber dejectedly. She waited for him to return but he didn't. The evening meal came and her father was highly displeased that Denae had not followed his instructions.

"You are the Heiress," he said, not keeping his voice low. "You are not the Monarch. When I tell you to do something, you do it. I gave you a simple task – one you should have been eager to accept, regardless, since you profess fondness for your Knight – and you failed to complete it because you were sidetracked by trivial matters. Now you tell me you do not even know where your Knight is? How is that? Since your instruction, I can sense Torbert when he is a mile or more away. I know you can sense Jorgarn farther than that, perhaps five times farther. Yet you cannot even tell me if he is safe? By morning meal, you will provide me the details I have sought. Let no one sway your attention. That is your only task until it is complete."

He glanced around the table, which held only Lorida.

"Two nights ago we sat here and discussed all the plans we had for the future of Emertland," he said sadly. "Torbert, his wife, his children, Eslada's wards, my family. The several of us spoke glowingly of the prospects. Now we are divided. Eslada and Torbert refused to eat with us. They refused unless I commanded it. You have put me in the position of commanding my family to share our table."

Denae asked to be excused from the remainder of dinner and her request was granted immediately.

Lorida had remained strangely silent for the past two days. She had offered no advice or even comment on what had transpired. But now she glanced at her stepdaughter and offered a sad smile to her retreating back.

"We knew this was a possibility, Dear," she said gently when Denae had left. "We are not graced with the ability to foresee the future and I doubt Denae has done this purposefully. It will pass and we go back to speaking highly of our future endeavors."

Landor shook his head.

"It will not pass soon," he said. "One small woman with a small mind has done what Pietro and the Symingtons could not. She has torn this family. Denae has allowed this woman to isolate her and she blindly follows her counsel. Today, instead of doing as I bid, Denae was sitting in interviews with attendants – attendants she wouldn't need without that cruel prank. I am of half a mind to have her removed. I threatened it this morning. Now, instead of having Denae surround herself with strong-willed advisers who might provide sound counsel, this girl is trotting forth that group of simpering friends that followed Denae around for years. Do you really want that group providing guidance on the future of Emertland?"

"But Jorgarn will still be there," Lorida said.

"Will he?" Landor asked. "He is gone. He might have returned to Longview for all we know. She won't admit it, but Denae closed their link. I could see it in her face when I chided her. She turned Jorgarn aside and now the link might be gone for good. There is precedent. It has happened in the past where the connection between Monarch and Knight has been lost."

He slammed his palms on the table and rose.

"I am no longer hungry," he said. "I will be in my study if I am needed."

-------

Jorgarn and Pernice stopped at a roadside inn for their evening meal. They left the box containing the heads of Comar Symington and his grandparents tied to the back of the carriage – and Jorgarn's satchel filled with his prized fruit spread inside of it.

"That took longer than I remembered," Pernice apologized for the fourth time. "I am on leave but I bet the castle is buzzing about your disappearance."

Jorgarn snorted.

"I will not be missed," he said. "I could probably be gone for a week before anyone noticed. Well, I do have that meeting in six days. But that is my next appointment. How long is your leave?"

"Two weeks minus today," Pernice said with a smile. "Once this business with the Symingtons is concluded, I plan to be gone for the entirety of that time. There are many places I have longed to see but have never had the time or the coin to visit. Now I have both, thanks to you."

"Perhaps I might join you on your travels," Jorgarn offered. "I have seen nothing of Emertland but the capital."

"You have duties that must be attended to," Pernice pointed out.

"Not so," Jorgarn replied. "I have ceded my duties to either Fieth or Renoit while I convalesce. I am unfit to return to duty so long as I cannot wield a sword. They are acting in my stead – or one of them is. I forgot to ask which one."

"You did not appoint one of them?" Pernice wondered.

"I let them choose," Jorgarn answered off-handedly. "One is as good as the other, really. They are probably better suited to shepherd Denae through this time anyway. I lack patience for such things."

"No, really?" Pernice replied with a smile. Jorgarn had recounted – as best as he could – the conversations from the day before. He was fully aware that in his anger, he had said some things he shouldn't have but he found he meant them all.

"This whole affair is ridiculous," Jorgarn said in his defense.

"People who were once weak do not give up power easily once they find it," Pernice said sadly. "You know of Rayna's family?"

Jorgarn shrugged.

"Her father was a sailor," Pernice continued. "The ship went down at sea, all hands lost. The noble who owned the ship refused to pay wages or death benefits to the families. He said there was no evidence the ship had foundered. It could well be still on the water. It went to an arbiter and he, of course, won. Nobles always win in arbitration against a commoner. Rayna's family was left without a Konec. They lost their home, their possessions. I think Rayna was about seven at the time. His Majesty, King Landor, got word of the travesty. Although he could not compel the Lord to pay, he did track down those families that had been affected and found them jobs where he could.

"Rayna's mother had never worked. Her only skill was cooking and, well, she was not the best at that. But she couldn't leave Rayna and her brother alone to work at an inn. So King Landor brought her to the castle. Rayna befriended the Princess – or vice versa – and suddenly Rayna had influence. She had grown up seeing that influence meant superiority. She didn't take her lessons from King Landor – that power means responsibility. She chose the follow her former Lord – power meant privilege. She is not going to go back to helpless without a battle."

"That is not what is expected!" Jorgarn said.

"I know that, you know that, even the Princess knows that, I suspect," Pernice agreed. "Rayna, however, does not see it that way. She only notices that she will not have the same reign over the Princess she always has. You will have more influence. Mistresses Bralan, Usala and Leyota would have, too, simply because they have a better grasp of the entire situation than Rayna. Rayna focuses on small things. It is the curse of the commoner. I suffer from it too. We are raised to trudge through life day to day. We are never expected to take a long view of anything. Rayna has no idea of how much long-term damage she is causing. She simply sees that she is winning her battle with you and the other nobles."

"You would think that Denae would point that out to her," Jorgarn said.

Pernice smiled sadly at his friend.

"The Princess grew up friendless," Pernice related. "I'm surprised this has never come up. The Queen died when she was young and King Landor grieved for many years. The Princess had no children in the castle with whom to spend time. She was always distant, from what I've heard. I believe it was shyness. Many people have told me that she takes time to warm up to people, you being the obvious exception. So Rayna is perhaps the only friend that the Princess has ever known. The Princess didn't get along well with Queen Lorida. So she confided in Rayna. Now those confidences are shared with you. Rayna has not figured out that her relationship with the Princess is forever changed. She will lose this battle. The Princess is too sharp to allow this to keep going forward. Eventually she will lose her influence because the Princess will see Rayna's advice is not paying dividends. But it will take time for it to become evident and by that time, Rayna might be ingrained so deeply it would be impossible to remove her."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 28



It was after dark when Pernice and Jorgarn made their way into the castle. Jorgarn crossed to the King's study and knocked lightly.

"Yes, enter," he heard a distracted voice reply. The King's eyes lit up when he saw Jorgarn standing there, holding the stinking box of heads.

"Ah, there you are," he said. "Oh, you went to retrieve the box. May I assume you can participate in the proceedings?"

"Yes, Sire," Jorgarn said. He was surprised at the way the King had reacted.

"Good, we shall do it at daybreak," he said. "I will alert Torbert. I am glad you are well. But you look tired. I suggest you get your rest."

Jorgarn nodded at his dismissal and departed. He expected to find his chamber empty upon his arrival and he was not disappointed. There was evidence that Denae had been there but she had departed.

He arose before daybreak and was waiting for the King and Sir Torbert to accompany them to the dungeon.

Pernice, Gorin, Melodart, Fieth and Renoit met them and they walked tall into the lower levels of the castle where the Symingtons had been housed for the preceding weeks.

They stopped in Cruit's cell first, displayed the contents of the box – three heads, eyes held open by gold coins – to Cruit's resigned face. He nodded sadly and knelt before the King.

"I beg the King's pardon," he said feebly.

"My pardon is denied," the King replied. "Cruit Symington, you've been convicted of treason and crimes against Emertland. Your sentence is death."

He nodded to Torbert who lowered a hood over Cruit's head. Pernice stepped forward and delivered the killing stroke.

The scene repeated itself in the other cells. Lord Symington refused to beg for mercy and he had to be forced to his knees. No hood was provided and Fieth's sword provided the final moment of the Lord's life.

Lady Symington was resolute but broke when she saw the heads of her mother and father in the box. She bowed before Landor but did not ask for a pardon. She accepted the hood but died just the same as the remainder of her family.

Jorgarn was grim when he walked upstairs with the others. He certainly was in no mood for dealing with anything more complex than his breakfast. He glanced at Denae's closed door when he entered his chamber to clean up. There was blood on his trousers and shoes. He wanted to wash, grab his fruit spread and head to a quiet breakfast.

So he jumped when he saw Denae sitting on his bed.

"Where have you been?" she demanded angrily.

"In the dungeon, dealing with the Symingtons," he said. "The King ordered it."

Denae scowled.

"You answer to me, not him," she insisted.

Jorgarn raised his eyes.

"I answer to you?" he asked incredulously. "I answer to you? I think not."

Denae jumped to her feet.

"You are my Knight," she screamed. "Now where were you last night? I demand you answer me."

"Go defile yourself," he said casually. "You demand what you will. I will answer what I want. Now I have just watched three people beheaded. I am hungry and I have other things I wish to do."

"Open your mind to me," she insisted.

"Quit ordering me around," Jorgarn screamed. Denae jumped backward in fright. "I do not work for you. I am not one of your little minions. You do not decide what I do or where I go. If you wish to return to a partnership, we can discuss it. If you wish to lord over me, you can kiss my rear. I have had enough of you and that awful woman you employ."

Denae's mouth had dropped. She had seen rage in Jorgarn's face, pure anger seeking an outlet. She knew she had pushed him as far as she dared. If she pushed farther, he might lose the ability to control his temper.

Rayna had miscalculated – again, Denae thought. Rayna had told Denae that Jorgarn would accept it if she ordered him around, that he considered himself not her equal but her servant. He would acquiesce if she demanded it.

"Now, I am going to breakfast – with your family," he said. "It is my understanding that you might or might not be there, either way suits me fine."

He collected a small wooden cask that contained his fruit spread and glared at Denae.

"You need to decide what sort of leader you wish to be," he said. "And you need to decide quickly. I have ceded my duties while I heal. I recommend you do not try that method to get your replacement Knight to do your bidding."

Without another word, he left a stunned Denae and headed down to breakfast.

-------

Denae, eyes red with what appeared to be tears, appeared at the table a few minutes after Jorgarn arrived.

She saw him open the cask and spread something on his toasted bread, then jump to his feet and race down the corridor. Her father and stepmother looked at her quizzically but she could only shake her head.

Jorgarn wended his way to the medic's office where Alite was standing over a pot, cooking something that smelled vaguely familiar.

"Try this," Jorgarn said excitedly. "Tell me this isn't the best thing you've ever tasted."

Alite looked at the red substance that covered the toasted bread and took a tentative bite of the edge.

"Take a bigger bite," Jorgarn said with a smile. "All you got was bread. You know how that tastes."

She gave him a wary look and took a bigger bit of bread. Her face immediately screwed up and she spat it unceremoniously on the floor.

"That is horrid," she said. "You actually put that in your mouth?"

Jorgarn looked thunderstruck.

"You don't like it?" he asked unnecessarily as he looked at the lump on the floor.

"It is too sweet," she said as she stuck her tongue out. "Pernice is right. It is simply too sweet for me."

"Fine," Jorgarn said in exasperation. "It leaves more for me. You and Pernice deserve each other. You can share your bland meals with those foul things you call potatoes. I guess I am too refined for Emertland cuisine."

Alite laughed at his haughty voice and upturned nose.

"Anyway, sorry to interrupt," he said hastily. "This is the best I ever tasted and I wanted to share."

"I would hate to try the worst you've ever tasted," Alite laughed as Jorgarn exited the chamber to return to his morning meal.

All eyes in the room turned to him when he sat back down, his mouth full of the toast he had eaten on the way back.

Denae watched as he spread the substance on a second slice and recognition dawned.

"You found fruit spread," she said.

"I think it is called marmalade here," Jorgarn said. "It's really good. Do you want a taste?"

Denae and Landor looked over the concoction. Landor shook his head but Denae extended a tentative finger and took a small taste. She considered it for a moment and then tried a bigger fingerful. Jorgarn thought her action seemed forced.

"It is sweet," she said. "What is it made from?"

Jorgarn realized he didn't know. He shrugged.

"When I was a child, my mother would mix redberries with sugary water," Lorida said. "It looked much like that. Do you mind if I try it?"

"Of course not," Jorgarn said as he slid the vat down the table. "I have others upstairs. One is sort of purplish and the other is a light orange."

Lorida took a bite and nodded.

"It is the same," she said. "You make wine in Longview, correct?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"I would guess the same fruit is used for your purple," she said. "It might not be as sweet as this. It might actually be sour. Have you tried the wine fruit plain? It is somewhat sour, don't you think?"

Everyone at the table seemed to appreciate Lorida's effort to keep the subject on light subjects. No one appreciated it more than Jorgarn.

He was tired of arguing with Denae. He longed for the days past when they seemed to be of one mind. But he knew those days were gone so long as Denae heeded the counsel of Rayna. He had not seen that side of Denae in the days when they were getting to know the other. He had not known the grip her friendship with Rayna held on Denae's psyche. He had not suspected that the Princess was so susceptible to the whims of her friend.

He might not have agreed to become her Knight if he had known the truth. He certainly would not have agreed to her lover. He had kept his thoughts closed at first because Denae had. Now he kept them closed for the sole reason that he did not want Denae to know how disappointed he was. He did not want her to know his thoughts.

When the morning meal concluded, Jorgarn stood.

"I have decided to convalesce away from the castle," he announced as he looked down at Denae, who remained seated. "Fieth and Renoit will alternate as your Knight until I am healed. I expect a week to 10 days. I will send word if I suffer a relapse. But I do not wish to remain here until things quiet. My presence here will only add to the disquiet."

"You forsake me?" Denae asked incredulously.

"No," Jorgarn said. "I do not forsake you. I want you to have time to digest what the future portends. I want you to decide if you choose to forsake me. If you decide you would prefer someone who will not think for himself and who will accept orders not only from you but from your assistants, I will remove myself from Emertland and you can tell everyone I died. But the situation that exists here and now will never produce a benefit for Emertland."

He nodded at King Landor, who had sat silently, and at Queen Lorida, whose mouth had dropped.

"Father, you must not allow this," Denae said.

"How do you propose I stop him?" Landor asked reasonably. "Shall I slay him? Would you like for me to call the Guard to keep him here, to force him to accept your actions without question? I think his course of action is for the best. You and he connected quickly. You need to separate your feelings for him and decide the role you wish him to play, if it is any role at all. But I ask you to view the actions of those around you objectively while Jorgarn is away."

Denae's face was a mask of anger as she glared first at her father and then at Jorgarn.

"If you leave, it will be unnecessary for you to return," she said. "I will name a new Knight."

"No you won't," Landor said. "You will accept which Second Jorgarn chooses. You will not break hundreds of years of tradition on a whim, not while I am alive. Until Jorgarn's death is announced, the replacement will not act as adviser. He will simply provide protection during your trips from the castle. I believe your schedule will preclude those trips for the foreseeable future. Jorgarn, I wish you well."

Landor nodded at Lorida who stood with him and left.

"I mean it," Denae said angrily. Her father's answer had not appeased her in the slightest. "I will not accept your departure without my permission."

"I do not require your permission," Jorgarn stated simply. "Not for this, nor for anything. You need to understand this. You need to accept this. There will be many times in the future, should you choose that we go forward together, when I will ask your opinion and accede to your wishes. But I do not require permission from you or from anyone else. Just as you do not. I have not demanded that you do anything. I have suggested and I have tried to convince you that my way would make things better. But I have not made a demand, nor will I. You are supposed to be a partner with your Knight. I will not be a supplicant. Take care, Denae. I do care about you and I do want what is best for you. I will truly be sorry if you decide it best that your future does not involve me at your side."

-------

Jorgarn hoped his departure would lessen the tension at the castle. In fact, it added to it.

Torbert avoided speaking to Denae completely, as did Eslada. Eslada filed a formal grievance with the Tribunal, but the woman who set the schedule delayed the proceeding until Jorgarn's return. Eslada was demanding the dismissal or demotion of Rayna Clain for her acts of dishonor toward her unnamed ward. Rayna did not file a counterclaim but claimed her actions were justified to assure the best interest of the Heiress. This put Denae into the awkward situation of either siding with her family or with her friend.

She had tried – and failed – to put the issue of Jorgarn from her mind. She had planned fully to keep with her demand that he renounce his Knighthood and leave Emertland, particularly if he ruled against Rayna, which he was bound to do.

Many of the families that had come to the castle for her ascension were still in the city. She spent her evenings being fawned over and catered to. Knowing that people of influence still enjoyed her company helped to ease Denae's distress somewhat. A part of her mind realized that, with a powerful Knight at her side, her word would one day be law. She wondered if she would be more powerful with Jorgarn as her ally or with the strongest families of the realm in her pocket. She certainly would need to do something to convince him that she was worthy of his respect. Either that or she would be forced to send him away.

But Fieth and Renoit appeared no better than Jorgarn. They laughed at her the first time she summoned them to the castle and issued a command.

"I am certain Jorgarn covered this with you, Your Highness," Renoit said though gritted teeth. "But in case he hasn't, allow me to clarify. We do not work for you and we do not answer to you."

"We most certainly do not accept orders from your handmaidens," Fieth cut in with derision dripping from his voice.

"Our role is to provide protection to you when you leave the castle grounds," Renoit continued. "That is our sole responsibility until Jorgarn returns."

"If you wish to leave the castle grounds, please make prior arrangements with one of us," Fieth added. "We have many responsibilities in Jorgarn's absence and we will not be able to drop them on a whim. His Majesty, King Landor, has confirmed that you will not be allowed to leave the grounds without escort and we will not be able to provide that escort without prior notice."

"But do not ask us to come to the castle to fix your tea or butter your bread," Renoit concluded. "We have much more important tasks in front of us that playing servant to a spoiled child."

The men glanced at one another, nodded and turned to leave.

"Do not walk away from the Princess!" Rayna roared. "You will not speak to her in that tone!"

Renoit and Fieth stopped in their tracks and spun around. For a moment, Denae worried about Rayna's safety. But the man simply laughed, ignored her and exited the room without another word.

Denae and a sputtering, cursing Rayna were left in their wake.

The situation with Rayna had not changed. The woman made a schedule without regard to Denae's input. She continued to parade a group of her friends forth as candidates for the attendant's spots, which continued to remain unfilled. Rayna pouted when Denae turned her choices away without so much as an interview. But the Princess refused to put Rayna in her place.

Jorgarn returned only days before the Tribunal met, although the outcome was predetermined. There would be a finding of No Determination. Each side had precedent on its side but neither side could prove its assertion.

The elderly woman who announced the verdict remained standing. She knew Lady Eslada would not allow it to go without some sense of satisfaction.

"I demand my Right of Reprisal," Eslada said calmly. "I seek satisfaction of my claim in combat."

King Landor stood.

"It is your right and it shall be," he said. It was rare for all seven members of the Tribunal to sit on a case and to cast a vote. When the others had voted No Determination, Denae had voted for Rayna. Torbert had countered her vote by casting his for Eslada.

Denae stood beside her father.

"I claim responsibility for the actions of my employee," Denae said.

Landor looked sharply at his daughter. He knew her statement had been prompted by Rayna. He had overheard a conversation in which Rayna had pleaded that her actions were, indeed, not in her own interests but in Denae's.

"It is your right and it shall be," Landor said. "Lady Eslada, do you wish to remove your claim?"

"I do not," she said firmly. Denae's face whitened. She had doubted that Eslada would really go through with combat against the Heiress.

"Do I have a volunteer to train Lady Eslada?" Landor asked.

Torbert stepped forward immediately and glowered at both Denae and Rayna.

Landor nodded then asked the same question about Denae.

Denae had wondered if Jorgarn would still train her. She had barely bothered to speak to him since his return and he had returned the favor. But he stepped forward, nonetheless. Denae glanced at him gratefully but he stared straight ahead.

"We will hold the contest in seven days in the main square," Landor announced. "I can guess this will produce quite a crowd."

The following week was more of the same. Jorgarn spoke only to Denae while training her and rarely spent a moment's time with her in any other instance. Denae seemed just as happy to avoid him, as well.

Denae wanted him to use their weakening link to train her but Jorgarn explained that he believed it would be unfair, since Torbert and Eslada could not train that way.

Denae seemed to understand his position – until Rayna weighed in.

"It is not about fairness," she said angrily. "It is about winning!"

"A win at all costs is no win at all," Jorgarn said in an even voice.

"I demand you do it!" Denae said, after a glance at her friend.

"Back to demands, are we?" Jorgarn asked sadly. "Well, you know how that will work for you. Rayna, if you wish to be Denae's trainer, I will leave. Otherwise, your presence here is not welcome. Denae, if you insist that she be here, find someone else to train you."

He cast a fiery gaze at Rayna who paled visibly.

"I hold you personally responsible for any injury she suffers in this situation," Jorgarn said. "You set the stage for this but you are too much of a coward to see it to its conclusion. I don't know what hold you have on Denae, but I hope the pain she is about to feel will break it. That pain will be caused by you. And I will hold you responsible for that pain for the length of my life – or yours. Now, be gone or you shall feel my displeasure now."

Rayna did not speak. Jorgarn was not sure she could speak through her evident terror. She turned and fled from the room. Jorgarn cast his gaze on Denae.

"If you insist she returns, she becomes the one to train you," Jorgarn said angrily. "I am not required to suffer her presence and I refuse to. Am I clear?"

Denae had heard the venom in his voice. She wanted to chide him for his attitude but she dared not.

"Our link is too weak for me to teach you that way," Jorgarn said. "Have you noticed that? Even those rare times when we're linked completely, I can barely sense you. Perhaps it means that you made a poor choice in your Knight. One of many poor choices, I suppose."

-------

It was evident to Jorgarn early on that Denae lacked the aggression to mount a sustained attack, so he focused solely on defensive movements and counterattacks. But he doubted that she would last 30 seconds with Eslada, who Torbert reported was taking to the staff like it was meant for her.

"She does not wish to harm her but she will if it is necessary," he advised.

When the day arrived, the square was filled with nobles and commoners alike. Jorgarn saw Rayna standing off to the side, her face set in a smirk. She was enjoying this. She had created this travesty.

Denae was nervous and sweating when she presented herself. Jorgarn did not accompany her but instead met her in the square. Torbert had walked to the square beside Eslada, who looked angry but confident.

Landor had ceded control of the proceeding to another but he attended the event with Lorida. Jorgarn saw Bralan standing with Drosset and Leyota. Usala and Astid were next to their mother nearby.

"Are we ready for this competition to begin?" the man in charged asked. "Let us have the combatants."

Denae stood to step forward but Jorgarn put his hand firmly on her shoulder.

"As established 307 years ago, I, Jorgarn Elmwood, Knight Protector for the Heiress, assert my right to act as Champion," he said loudly. "I will stand in her place."

The man looked at Jorgarn and then at King Landor. Jorgarn saw Torbert's mouth narrow. He had not expected this. Given Jorgarn's air of disdain toward the Princess, he had expected for him to allow Eslada to extract revenge. He had actually been surprised when Jorgarn had agreed to train her.

"What?" Denae said in a loud voice. "You cannot do that!"

"I can do this," he said through clenched teeth. "It is my right and it is my responsibility. Now sit down."

"It is his right as Knight," Torbert agreed. "He may act as Champion in any armed combat for his charge."

Eslada now looked scared but resolved. She decided that she would have to strike quickly and strongly to have a chance against Jorgarn. There was no way she would win if she allowed him an attack.

Jorgarn stepped forward and bowed to Eslada.

Denae had opened their link completely, hoping to convince Jorgarn to stand down. The connection was so slight that she could barely reach him.

"Rayna, do you wish to admit culpability?" King Landor boomed.

"No, Your Majesty," Rayna said.

"Princess Denae, do you wish to admit culpability for your charge?" Landor asked. There was a note of pleading his voice.

Denae looked at Jorgarn.

"No, Sire," she answered.

"Lady Eslada, do you wish to forgive your grievance?" Landor inquired. Eslada gulped but shook her head.

"I do not, my King," she said with resolve.

Denae saw Jorgarn glance at her. She could barely sense him but she was certain he had spoken in her head.

<It must be this way, > she heard him say. <You placed me in the middle. It is the only way this can end.>

"Begin!" Landor said loudly.

Eslada had jumped forward as soon as the first syllable had been uttered. Her staff was swinging, gathering momentum as she charged. She knew Jorgarn would attempt to parry her first swing so she needed to make it count. With luck, her staff would splinter and perhaps pierce Jorgarn's skin. She figured it was about her only hope.

She swung madly at Jorgarn's head and awaited his movement.

But the movement didn't come. He kept the staff at his waist and Eslada's furious swing crashed down unimpeded on his skull, driving him to his knees.

Blood flowed from the large cut that spread across the top of his head. Eslada stepped back in horror. Jorgarn attempted to rise and made his way slowly to his feet. He staggered to his left and Eslada saw his eyes roll back in his head as he collapsed to the hard ground, unconscious.

The crowd stood in stunned silence, except for a lone, shrill voice.

"Unfair!" Rayna screamed. "He did not defend himself. I demand this be redone."

Those eyes that weren't too stunned by what happened before them turned to Rayna. Few had known what caused the need for Reprisal but now they understood the rumors had been true. The faces that faced Rayna held incredulous expressions.

"It is a fair trial," Landor said angrily as he strode forward to where Eslada bent over her stepson, whose face was a mask of blood. "This will not be recast. Eslada's claim is verified."

Torbert raced past his brother along with Pernice and the honey-haired medic he recognized but didn't know.

Pernice's eyes bore into Rayna as Alite bent forward to look at Jorgarn's unconscious figure on the ground. Rayna saw the anger. She knew that this action had ended whatever chance she had at a reunion with the man she still believed was destined to be her husband.

The only emotion that filled her was anger. She was not angry that her actions had led to this inevitable result. She was not even angry at Pernice because she had known that his sense of honor would hold her responsible.

Her anger was twofold. She was angry at Denae because she had lost her grip on a man she was supposed to be able to control. But the majority of her anger was for Jorgarn. He had insisted upon insinuating himself between her and the Princess, which she had blocked. But he had succeeded in severing completely the relationship she had cultivated with Pernice.

As everyone stood and stared at Jorgarn, Rayna came forward and took Denae's arm.

"Let us leave," she insisted.

Denae didn't appear to notice the arrival of her friend. She was focused solely on the figure at her feet. She shook off Rayna's insistent tugging on her sleeve.

"Go," she said with a sideway cast at Rayna. "I will stay here. It is my place."

Rayna started to speak but Pernice's voice cut across her.

"She said for you to go!" he said angrily. "I recommend for your safety, that you do it quickly."

Rayna noticed his hand was on the hilt of his sword. She saw Fieth and Renoit standing beside him, Torbert and the King and Queen glaring at her and the looks of murderous rage on the faces of Bralan, Leyota, Usala and Astid. She turned and fled back to the castle.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 29



Bralan had felt a feeling of trepidation when Jorgarn had stepped forward. She worried for Eslada's safety and for her claim. She knew Eslada would be no match for Jorgarn. No one would, she figured. But she knew Jorgarn would never harm Eslada.

Then she saw he never moved. He didn't raise his arms to protect himself. He didn't even take a step backward. He stood there, eyes forward, no expression on his face. She had expected him to flick Eslada's staff way as if it were a twig, then win the duel as gently as possible. But he hadn't even tried to defend himself.

Bralan saw the blood. Her first thought was that her claim had been validated. Only when Jorgarn toppled to the ground did that thought vanish. Jorgarn was impervious. She knew he was human but she didn't think he could truly be harmed.

She raced forward, her friends in her wake, until she stood with the small crowd that huddled around the fallen figure. She saw Rayna coming toward them, a look of anger on her face. Only the hands of her friends on her shoulders kept her from racing forward and attacking the woman.

Blood flowed freely from the wound on Jorgarn's head, pooling on the ground where he lay. The medic was kneeling before him, trying to daub the blood away so she could inspect the wound.

"It is large but it is not deep," she said. "I don't believe his skull is fractured. I will have to stop the bleeding before I can say for certain. I don't think there will be any permanent damage to his mind."

There was a general gasp and Eslada broke down in tears. She fell on the ground beside Jorgarn and clutched him tightly. Bralan put her hand on Eslada's quavering shoulder and looked down at Jorgarn.

"We need to get him to the infirmary," Alite said quietly. Several sets of strong hands lifted Jorgarn by his arms and legs and started off for the closest entrance to the castle.

-------

Denae wandered back the castle as if in a stupor. She did not understand Jorgarn's actions. She had not understood them in the past weeks but today's had left her even more confused.

She knew she probably would be unwelcome in the infirmary so she went to her father's study where she reflected on the previous weeks. It took her only a moment to pinpoint the cause – the friction between Jorgarn and Rayna.

She had always known the cause and she thought she had done all she could to lessen it. But for some reason, one or the other would not allow it. They had expected her to choose. It was a choice she couldn't make. She simply couldn't choose between her best friend and the man she wanted to marry.

Did she love Jorgarn? He had pulled away from her in the previous weeks. She felt he had pulled back from her as soon as she told him of her plans to marry him. Perhaps that was the cause of this. He had pushed her to the precipice because he did not want to marry her.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the entrance of her father, who sat wearily and looked at her. There was a pained expression on his face.

"How did this happen?" Denae asked sadly, tears in her eyes.

"You know how this happened," Landor said. Part of his heart hated to see her in such anguish but another part was furious that she had allowed things to reach this point.

Anger flicked across Denae's eyes.

"Yes, I know how it happened," she said. "I suppose I meant, why would Jorgarn do that? Why would he just stand there? He didn't even raise his staff. His only defense was to shift his head backward slightly. He didn't even try to win."

"You did not expect him to try to win, did you?" he asked. "You did not expect him to give Rayna an acquittal, did you? He took the only option you left him to ensure Emertland survives the whim of that stupid girl you employ. You forced him into his action by demanding to accept responsibility for this lunacy. It is his job to protect you. He would not allow harm to come to you. He could not. It is not his nature. But he could not allow Rayna to win her claim, either. He had to defend your safety but he had to lose the battle. If Eslada had injured you, he would have been forced to seek to injure her. You put this into motion. When you allowed Rayna to dictate your decisions, to limit your options, you closed the door to Jorgarn's actions. He lies in the infirmary, still unconscious, because you put him there. You put him there when you refused to stop Rayna from acting indiscriminately."

Denae closed her eyes.

"I can't feel him," she said feebly.

"This surprises you?" Landor asked. "He told Torbert that his link to you was weakening. He seemed to think it was his fault. That he had acted rashly in accepting the Knighthood despite his misgivings. He believed he allowed others to talk him into something he knew was wrong. Do you think you chose badly?"

Denae considered her answer despite the anger that flitted across her father's face.

"I might have," she said. "I am not certain if I chose wisely nor not. I wished I had considered longer and I wish that I had taken his reservations into account instead of trying to convince him to see my point of view."

"That was perhaps the only mistake you didn't make in the past months," Landor said angrily. "He would never have accepted the Knighthood if you hadn't been forceful."

"Hah!" Denae said. "I have tried forceful in recent weeks. It has not gone well."

"You tried to order and command," Landor corrected. "You are too young to understand subtlety. Jorgarn gave in the first time because he thought it might be the right thing to do. You have commanded him this time to do something he knows is wrong. You have gormlessly followed the directions of Rayna. She gave you pointers, thinking you would be able to control him. I believe you have found that he is not willing to fall for that. I think Rayna has found that Pernice is also above such actions. Now, why do you think you no longer sense him?"

"I don't know," she said. "Even with the connection closed, I can still sense him. I didn't really realize it until it was gone. Now, I can't feel him at all. You don't think that means..."

Her voice trailed off.

"It might," Landor said sadly. "Eslada wanted to shatter her staff and perhaps scratch him with the remains. She swung so hard because she never expected him to stand there. She expected him to lift his staff in defense. He must not have expected such an attack."

"He told me she would attack that way," Denae said. "He knew that she would either go head high overhand or sweep my legs crosswise. She would have broken my arms if I had to face that attack. But I never wanted him hurt."

"Perhaps not," Landor said. "But it is done. You must accept that your actions, coupled with Rayna's and Jorgarn's actions, have produced this result. We can only move forward, not backward. Now, the Reprisal has been decided. You have 10 days to comply with its stipulations."

Denae sat still in her chair.

"And if I do not?" she said.

Landor squared his shoulders.

"I will be compelled to remove you as Heir if you fail to comply with a lawful directive from the Tribunal," he said sadly. "I do not wish that but there is precedence. Before you speak, Jorgarn was not required to offer a defense. Torbert looked into that as soon as Jorgarn was safely in the infirmary. The finding of the Reprisal will be upheld. You might gain an additional few days but that is all. I doubt you will even gain that. Rayna can remain on your staff. That was not part of the decree. But she cannot be lead attendant. Who you choose for that is up to you. It is forbidden to her always. If you choose to ignore the ruling, I will not oppose you. But Rayna will not have influence in the palace again."

He looked at his daughter who was sitting in front him looking mutinous.

"You have only yourself to blame for this," he said sharply. "At any time in the past months – past years, honestly – you could have stood up for yourself. You could have stopped this. But you allowed her to manipulate you and to direct you to places you knew you should not go. Now you have decided that her way is the best way. I want you to consider something, with an open mind. Can you do that?"

Denae nodded.

"In the past years has Rayna asked you to do something that did not hold a direct benefit to her?" Landor wondered. "From gaining a pardon for her brother to gaining a promotion for her mother to seeking to gain a better post for the man she wanted to marry, all her directives to you benefitted her. She used you to gain things for her benefit. Even now she seeks to surround herself with people who will not oppose her. She presents you candidates unworthy of your staff not because she thinks them to be practical. She presents them because she knows she can control them – like she controls you. Can you realize that now? Will you reflect on that before you finalize your decision? Can you be objective enough to think of that without emotion? Can you stand alone to reflect on the past – and the future – without the influence of those who seek to make the choice for you?"

-------

Denae left the study and once again tried to sense Jorgarn, to see if he was OK. She felt nothing and again, a feeling of dread settled over her. It was possible that he had suffered so great a head wound that his mind might be addled.

Already it had been five hours and he had not awoken. She absently walked down the corridor until she found herself only a few feet from the infirmary. It had been months since she had been within such proximity to her Knight without knowing for certain he was nearby.

But now she felt nothing, just a cold emptiness where once Jorgarn's presence had been. She jumped when Torbert exited the room, looking sad.

"Is he well?" Denae asked tentatively. She wasn't certain she wanted the answer and she wasn't certain her uncle would even speak to her.

"They don't know," Torbert said as he stopped beside her. "You might know better than any of us, really."

Denae looked at the floor but shook her head.

"I could feel him, generally, up until the staff hit him," she answered. "He, he spoke to me across the connection just before it landed. He told me I put him in the middle of this and that this was the only way out for me. Nothing since then. I mean nothing, Uncle Torbert. I can't even tell he is alive. It is though he is a hundred miles away from me."

"He told me that the link was weakening even before this happened," Torbert replied. "I believe it is not a product of his injury. I believe he will make a full recovery. Alite, the medic who is with him, said the wound was not deep. I have seen head wounds before and they always bleed like that."

"So you think our connection will return?" Denae asked hopefully.

Torbert sighed deeply. The corridor leading to the infirmary was not the place for this conversation, nor did he think this was the time for it. Nonetheless, he spoke.

"I don't know," he replied. "The link has been lost before, according to what I've read. Queen Nese attempted to have her Knight assassinated and he never felt her presence again. The same was true of the Queen who sought to divorce her Knight."

"But I haven't done either of those things!" Denae cried. "I didn't want him harmed and I don't want him to leave me."

The last statement caught even Denae by surprise.

"The only other case that springs to mind is King Lesic and his Knight," Torbert told her as he put her hand gently on her shoulder. She was, after all, the daughter of his brother and he loved her – even if there were times he didn't really like her. "His Knight advised him against an attack the King was planning but Lesic went ahead anyway. The real purpose was not to gain land or goods but rid himself of a rival in hope of wedding the man's wife. The link was lost from the moment the Knight learned of the King's rationale and it never returned. It is more a matter of trust, I think. It took a great deal of it even before we knew of the full scope. I believe it takes even more trust between you and Jorgarn because it is so strong, because you have shared so much over it. I sincerely doubt the link will return unless the trust does. Even if it does, I doubt it will ever be a strong as it once was. He believed in you, Denae. Even if the connection returns, I think there always will be a lingering doubt in his mind – enough doubt that it will prevent him from allowing you access to his thoughts again. No one who has lost my confidence has ever gained it back fully again and word of your escapades during his time away from the castle has reached his ears."

Torbert felt badly at the tears he saw on his niece's cheeks but they couldn't be helped. Many had warned Denae of the path she was taking, warned her of putting her faith in the wrong person, warned her of sneaking away to get her ego salved by the smooth-talking young men of noble breeding.

She had, instead, chosen to follow the path she was on. Now all her plans might be for naught. She had already lost the respect of the Tribunal. They had not hesitated to rule against her. She had lost the respect of some of the noble families when they learned of her nighttime wanderings. She had thought she had Jorgarn to fall back on. Now she might have lost him, too.

She would say or do anything to keep that piece in play.

Her heart aching, Denae turned and walked sadly back to her chamber where she locked the door, lay down, buried her head in her pillow and cried herself to sleep.

-------

The first thing Jorgarn noticed when he awakened was that his head hurt worse than it had in his life. He was thankful it was almost dark in the room, the only light illuminating from a shielded candle on a table across the room.

His stomach lurched when he opened his eyes and tried to focus them on the ceiling. It wasn't until he closed them and tried to cover them did he realize he couldn't move his right arm. A groan escaped his lips when he turned to see why: there was a head resting on his shoulder.

His painful groan had alerted the other person and she looked up at him with soft brown eyes that were hardened by fright. They softened immediately when she saw him looking down at her.

"You're awake!" she whispered urgently. But to Jorgarn's head, it sounded like a scream. "How do you feel?"

"My head hurts," he stated softly. "Why?"

He was met with a smile.

"You got bashed on the head by a big, wooden stick," she whispered. He lowered his head back to the pillow and felt sickened by the movement.

"I suppose that would accomplish it," he said.

"Just lie still and I'll get the medic," he heard. The weight lifted from his bed and the sudden movement forced another moan from his lips. He kept his eyes closed until he heard soft footfalls on the stone corridor. There was murmured whispering but Jorgarn didn't bother to try to sort it out. Every time he set his mind to do something he considered a simply task – such as focusing his eyes or scratching his leg – his stomach felt as if it would empty its contents.

So he elected to lie perfectly still and keep his eyes closed.

"He does not appear to have awakened," he heard a voice say. "He looks the same as when I left him three hours ago. Why are you here, Your Highness?"

He heard Denae's voice falter.

"I wanted to be with him, to see him," she said softly. "I knew no one else wanted me here. So I waited until they left for the night. I've been foolish, but I do care about him very much."

"Well, I suppose it is acceptable that you stay in the room with him," Alite replied. "I will need to know if he does awake. But please do not come to get me unless you are certain next time, Your Highness."

Jorgarn noticed coldness in Alite's usually playful voice.

"The Princess did not wake you needlessly," Jorgarn uttered. His mouth was dry and his voice felt like it hadn't been used in months. "I am awake. It is just more comfortable with my eyes closed."

Jorgarn heard movement and felt hands on his cheeks. He could tell a candle had been lit closer to him, even through his closed eyes.

"You will need to open your eyes so I can see them," Alite said gently.

"Can I have a catch basin?" Jorgarn asked. "I feel as though I will be sick if I do."

"I'll have one nearby," Alite promised. "Do not try to focus. You need not keep them open for long. But I need to see them in order to gauge the severity of your injury. How badly does your head hurt?"

A small smile creased Jorgarn's lips unbidden.

"As though I got bashed on the head with a large stick," he said as he forced his eyes open.

The light made his head ache and his stomach clench. Alite quickly passed the candle in front of his face.

"You can close them again," she said softly. "You have bruised your brain. Your head will hurt and your stomach will be queasy for several days depending upon the severity. I also need you to stay awake as long as you can. Anything I would give you for the pain in your head would put you to sleep, which is dangerous. I will sit with you, if you would like."

"I can stay," Denae offered quietly.

"I am not certain that is wise, Your Highness," Alite replied. "Jorgarn does not need to get upset."

There was a moment's silence before Jorgarn spoke.

"I will not be upset if the Princess wishes to stay," he said. "I have found, for the most part, that I quite enjoy her company."

It was only after he felt warmth radiate from the Princess that he realized she was still keeping herself shielded, as though her privacy was paramount and she did not want him knowing her thoughts.

Her heard footsteps and the scraping of chair legs as Denae pulled a seat across the room and Alite departed.

"Is there something I can get for you?" Denae asked in a whisper. "Water, perhaps? Your voice sounds like a bullfrog's."

"I would like a drink of water but I don't want to sit up to drink it," Jorgarn told her. "I have been told for years that I would drown if I tried to drink while lying flat. I don't want that either. So I guess I'll pass on the water."

He heard the chair creak as Denae sat in it.

"Tell me if you change your mind," she said. "I would be happy to assist you to a sitting position if you're worried about drowning. So, did you enjoy your time away from the castle? We've never really spoken of it."

Jorgarn could hear no animosity in Denae's voice so he answered.

"I went up the coast, with Pernice to visit his family," Jorgarn said. "It was very nice, once I managed to convince them that I did not need the best room in the house or a feast every night. That took about a day and a half."

Denae laughed lightly. It sounded strange, even to her.

"Now you know how I felt around you," she said. "May I ... may I hold your hand?"

Jorgarn heard the chair creak again as Denae shifted nervously. He held out his hand to her and she grasped it tightly, like it was the last piece of flotsam from a shipwreck.

"You can return to the spot where I found you if you'll be more comfortable," Jorgarn offered. "That chair sounds as though it hurts the Princess' delicate rear."

"Are you certain?" Denae asked.

"That you have a delicate rear?" Jorgarn joked. "Quite sure, I have felt it myself once or twice, so I am almost positive."

He had felt Denae's sense of relief grow as she sat beside him. His offer to allow her to lie across his shoulder brought happiness to her but his joke about her backside raised her spirits further.

He heard the chair creak again and then weight added to the bed when Denae joined him.

"Did you fish with Pernice's father while you visited?" Denae asked when she took the spot on his shoulder that was hers during those few nights that felt so long ago. "I have always wanted to do that. Go fishing, I mean, not necessarily with Pernice's father. I have never been on a boat. What is it like?"

"I had never been on a boat either until I boarded one to come here," Jorgarn answered. "It is a different feeling. It is similar but entirely different from riding a horse. On the water, motion comes from everywhere, depending on the current or the wind or the direction you wish to go. It is not a method I prefer, to be truthful. I did not go out with Pernice's father. His boat is small and his crew is few. If I had gone, someone would have lost a day's wages and Pernice's father, Durit, would have been saddled with a worthless crewman."

"There are rumors that you are quite the able sailor," Denae said. "I have heard you assisted the crew on all your passages to Longview and back."

"Exaggeration," Jorgarn said with embarrassment. "On the way across – that first time – I assisted some with menial jobs. I did the same on my first trip back because I was going under the guise of a sailor. On the return voyage, the seas were very rough. I would have put everyone in danger if I helped. So I stayed below. I enjoyed that passage despite the seas, so I have stayed below since."

Denae laughed softly again. It was a pleasant feeling to simply talk about small, personal things. There were no grand plans or future events that required her attention. She could enjoy the closeness and camaraderie with Jorgarn, something she realized she had with no one else, not even Rayna.

"Are Pernice and Alite a couple now?" she asked. "I saw them together today at the Reprisal."

She felt Jorgarn's shoulder stiffen.

"Is this a question for your own curiosity or were you sent to find out?" Jorgarn wondered.

"Oh," Denae said – and Jorgarn felt her happiness diminish. "It is just for me. I like Pernice. I always have. I don't know him well, other than what I've been told. But he always seemed so ... I don't know the word. I guess he always seemed so honorable. Rayna and I watched him, from the top of the castle where I watched you, for many days when he first arrived. He could have used his superior skill to bend others to his will, as Symington did. But Pernice never took that route. He became a leader the way you have – with a willingness to help others and let them succeed, too. I believe I hoped that some of his valor would rub off on others. Instead, I find that others have sought to turn him toward their behavior."

"So, this is confidential," Jorgarn said. "Just between us?"

Denae lifted her head slightly.

"Jorgarn, I have never shared anything private that we speak of," she said. "I have never shared anything that you wanted kept personal."

"I have never asked you to keep anything personal," Jorgarn replied.

"No," Denae admitted. "But there are things you wanted me to. I could sense that or see it. So I have. For instance, I have kept the details of our time together at night from everyone. I did not speak of them even to her because I knew you view those activities as immensely personal. It is perhaps my reluctance to share details about you that pushed us to where we are. I think the fact that I would not speak about us – and give details on what we did at night and the things we spoke about and joked about during the day – might have added to Rayna's insecurities. But I will not share this conversation with anyone, either."

She put her head back on Jorgarn's shoulder and waited to see if he would answer. A part of her was surprised when he did.

"I do not know if they are a couple," he answered. "I know she visited him during his holiday but she also used that time to cut away my mends. It was Alite who told me of the Tribunal date. I know he and she planned to travel to visit with her parents in another week – assuming I am not still in this bed."

"If you are, I will offer to attend to you," Denae said. "I know you dislike Trinil."

"She is just so abrupt," Jorgarn said defensively. "I am certain she is a good medic. My arm proves that. But her personality is not suited to dealing with those injured. Or perhaps those are the only people her personality is suited for. I know that if I were healthy, I would not suffer her company for long."

Denae laughed again and nuzzled her head into Jorgarn's shoulder.

"So, you like Alite better than Trinil and Rayna," Denae offered. "That is slight praise, I'm afraid."

"I do not dislike Rayna," Jorgarn said – again. "In fact, I like her very much. I dislike her actions but I think I have a better understanding of why she does them. I am not certain I wouldn't do the same thing in her place. It doesn't make it right. But I like the young woman who lurks beneath those actions."

"That is what I could never understand," Denae said softly. "I often ignored her actions or let her goad me into something because I like her. You would fully understand what her purposes were but you still liked her. Others who saw them, my father for instance, detest her."

"I could feel how much she meant to you," Jorgarn said simply. "I could see how much she meant to Pernice. I suppose I cut her slack for those two reasons. I disagree with her actions. That is true. But I disagreed with yours, too. Do you think I disliked you, then or now?"

"I wondered," she answered softly. "I still wonder, actually. I have done little in the past weeks to encourage your fondness of me."

Jorgarn put his arm protectively around Denae's waist. Despite everything, he still felt protective of her. He still felt love for her. He had reflected on those feelings for many days and nights before he could reconcile them.

"We have always known there are things we cannot agree upon," Jorgarn said gently. "My love for marmalade, for instance."

Denae reached down and clasped his hand which rested across her and held her tightly to him.

"I can sense you are troubled by this," he continued. "And I have always known that you were troubled by the path you saw everyone on. But you couldn't find a way off the path without hurting someone's feelings. That is what I offered you this morning. I played the villain. I usurped your role as decision maker so you didn't have to make a difficult decision."

"Thank you," she said meekly. "I see that now, although I didn't at the time. I thought you just wanted to ensure Eslada won and Rayna lost."

"Oh, I wanted to ensure that, too," Jorgarn said. "It was the way it had to end before you can start to rebuild the respect you've lost in the last few weeks. I'm sorry but I think you know it is true."

"You said you can sense I am troubled," Denae said. "Did you mean that literally? Can you still sense me?"

"Only a vague sense of your emotion at the time," Jorgarn said. "I believe you have the connection completely closed."

"I don't," Denae said, almost frantically. "I have it completely open. In the past, you would have been able to see into the recesses of my soul. Jorgarn, I can't feel you at all. I can't even sense a hint of you. It is like you are back at Pernice's parents again or in Longview."

"But I can still feel you," he said in puzzlement. "It might have to do with that bump on my head you mentioned earlier. I am sure it will return as soon as my head stops hurting. I might be unconsciously keeping that from you. I tried to hide my discomfort from you on the way back from Longview last month. This is far more uncomfortable than that."

"I hope that is all it is," Denae said. "But I could feel it weakening as your trust in me weakened. Torbert said it has happened before with those who have felt betrayed by the other or lost faith in the other."

"I am not sure that is the case this time," Jorgarn said as he shifted his strong hand up her side to gently rub her face and hair. "But if it is, it will take longer to find what we had. But if you wish it, we will get through this hardship, and any others, together."

At that moment, Denae wished for nothing more in the world.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 30



Denae left Jorgarn's side shortly before daybreak. She had drifted off to sleep without meaning to. She had simply felt so relaxed and at ease that she fell to slumber before she could stop it. She awoke with a start and found Jorgarn, eyes closed but awake, smiling down at her.

"I'm sorry, I was supposed to keep you awake," she said. "I didn't mean to let you down."

"You didn't," he answered softly. "I enjoyed having you beside me again so much, I couldn't have slept. But you were tired and you need your rest. I will be allowed to sleep all day today, perhaps. You, alas, will not."

Denae noticed the dawn breaking outside.

"I should go before anyone else awakens and visits," she said. "I doubt I would be welcome beside you."

"You can stay if you wish," Jorgarn said. "For I will continue to be at your side for as long as you want me to be. Those who visit are my friends and my family. They will need to get used to it."

Denae smiled gratefully but still arose from the bed.

"Perhaps that is true," she said sweetly. "But I do not think this morning is the time to get them started. I anticipate much yelling the first time some of them see me and I doubt your head would enjoy it much."

"I doubt your head will enjoy it much either," Jorgarn said with another smile.

"True," Denae said with a hint of sadness. "But mine is of my own making."

"So is mine," Jorgarn pointed out.

"No, you did the only thing you could to stop this foolishness," Deane answered quickly. "I left you only one way out that did not leave me with many powerful, lifelong enemies. I should have been strong enough to do it myself. But instead I forced you to do it for me. I will forever regret that."

"Do not regret it," Jorgarn said. "Learn from it as I have."

"What did you learn?" Denae wondered.

"Never stand across from a woman wielding a weapon and think she will have mercy on you," Jorgarn said with a chuckle. "I thought Eslada's treatment of my arm was a result of some desire for revenge. I am certain that yesterday was. I do hope she feels vindicated toward me for whatever I did. I do believe she will come after me with a crossbow next."

"She never expected you to just stand there," Denae said. "She hoped she would break her staff when you blocked her and she might scratch you or something. Eslada never intended to harm you."

"I know, Denae," Jorgarn said with another smile. "I was trying to make a joke. Perhaps my bruise is on the humor section of my head."

"Well, maybe you will be funnier once it heals then," Denae replied in relief. "For you weren't very humorous to start with. May I kiss your cheek before I leave?"

"I am stuck in bed and it hurts to move my head," Jorgarn pointed out. "I don't believe I could stop you if I wanted to. But yes, I would like that."

Denae bent forward and gently pressed her lips to his cheek.

"I'm sorry," she whispered. She felt Jorgarn's arm rubbing her back softly. She suddenly realized how much she had missed his gentle touches, how much she craved more of them.

"May I return the favor?" he asked. Denae placed her warm cheek next to Jorgarn's dry lips. He pressed them against her firmly.

"I hope you'll visit again," he said.

"I will," she promised. "I will see if I can share your bed again tonight. Maybe you'll be back where you belong tonight – in our bed."

"Maybe," Jorgarn said as she pulled her face from his. "I hope so."

Denae left her infirmary corridor and headed up to her chamber. She had slept only a few hours but she felt more rested than in weeks. She found Rayna sitting in her chamber when she arrived.

"Where have you been?" Rayna said. "There is much that needs done today. I will file a Grievance about the Reprisal. Can you help me write it?"

Denae stopped in the doorway.

"Where I have been is none of your business," she said shortly. "You will not file a grievance. When you convinced me to accept responsibility, you lost that right."

"Well, I'll write one and you can file it then," Rayna said quickly.

"There is no need," Denae answered.

Rayna relaxed because she thought Denae had already taken the necessary steps to attempt to reverse the Tribunal's decision.

"I have informed the Tribunal that we accept the finding," she said. "I will speak to Lady Eslada today and inform her that her conditions will be met."

Rayna's mouth gaped.

"What?" she said.

"You will no longer be lead attendant," Denae said simply.

"Well, with your staff so small, I don't see as it matters," Rayna concluded. "It was only a title anyway. Others will look to me for guidance since I know you so well."

"You do not know me at all," Denae corrected. "Because a demotion would be meaningless, I have decided to abide by the spirit of the decree and not the letter. You are no longer attached to my staff. You have until morning meal tomorrow to remove your belongings. If you wish to remain near the castle, you will need to make arrangements with your mother to lodge with her. Otherwise, I will forward your wages so you may let a room in the village and I will arrange transport of your belongings. I will even provide a letter recommending you for another job. But I don't think it will matter since almost everyone in the capital knows of your actions."

Rayna's eyes narrowed dangerously.

"You do not want to do this," she said. "I know too many of your secrets. I'm certain the rumor mongers would love to hear about the little girl in the castle who would like to kiss other little girls and spends the night with a man who is not her husband."

Denae nodded.

"And I'm certain there are many woman in the village who would like your mother's job," she said in an even voice. "I can arrange that it is open, just as I can arrange to have a rope around your brother's neck."

Denae took a step forward to where there were only inches between them.

"Just as I can arrange for several young, dirty sailors to find where you lodge and have a right nice time with you and afterwards, you'll disappear without notice," she said in a low, menacing voice barely above a whisper. "You forget, Rayna. The power you believed you held was only illusion. The real power rests with me. If you insist on that lesson, I will provide it."

She pointed to the table.

"Leave your keys," Denae said. "And leave me. You have to find a place to live and place to earn a wage. But following morning meal tomorrow, your belongings and you will be set outside of the castle walls."

The Princess gestured dismissively toward the door.

"Leave me," Denae said sharply. "I have many people to apologize to today for the way we have acted. It will take me most of the day and I do not have time to dawdle with my former employees."

She met the woman's eyes who was still standing and staring at her.

"And Rayna," Denae said. "If you take anything from the castle that does not belong to you, you will swing beside your brother. I can assure you of that."

Denae took the stunned woman's arm, directed her though the door and closed it behind her. Then she sat at the table and sobbed quietly for the loss of her oldest – and perhaps only – friend.

-------

It was well after morning meal when Denae presented herself at her father's study for their daily lessons.

"Rayna Clain no longer works in the castle," she announced before sitting down. "She is to be out of the castle by this time tomorrow. If she is not, she is to be arrested as a trespasser. I have made arrangements with two members of the Emertland Guard to be stationed outside of her room. They will escort her anywhere she needs to go today. The others in the castle know that if they see her unaccompanied, they are to alert me immediately. I also asked two members to guard Jorgarn's door until she is gone. I hope that is acceptable, Father. I asked only the recently promoted that I still view myself responsible for."

"I'm sorry it came to this, Daughter," Landor said sympathetically. "I wish that it hadn't for your sake. I know you like her."

"I do like her but she cannot be permitted access until she matures and I mature," Denae said with a sad note. "I had planned to let her go gently but it didn't turn out that way. She wanted a Grievance filed. I have determined that Jorgarn's actions were fair and the outcome was necessary. She threatened me, and I am afraid I lost my temper."

Landor was on his feet in an instant.

"She threatened you?" he asked loudly. "How dare she?"

"Not physically father," Denae pointed out. "If that had been the case, I simply would have throttled her and removed her from the castle myself. Jorgarn has taught me much. No, she threatened to reveal castle secrets."

Landor waved his hand.

"Let her," he said. "There is little we do here that no one knows about and few would believe her anyway. She can tell what she likes."

"Oh, I don't think she will tell anyone anything," Denae said softly. "For if I hear a whisper that I suspect came from her lips, I will sack her mother, hang her brother as a thief and find a handful of seamen with the pox to have their way with her. Or at least she knows that I can have that done. I wouldn't, of course. But I could see that she believed it to be possible."

"That is because it is possible," Landor said sadly. "Denae, you must not even consider such things. Well, I suppose I can admit to considering them but you must not think those things a possible solution."

"I must temper my power with compassion," Denae said with a nod and a warm smile. "But you have to admit, letting someone who thinks they hold sway over you know differently is pretty enticing. As I said, regardless of what Rayna would say or do, I would never actually do those things. Her mother is a nice woman – not a great cook, mind you – but a nice woman. Her brother is a bastard, not literally but figuratively, and he will find himself swinging before long without my help. The only threat I made this morning that I intend to follow through with is the last one I made."

"You intend to set Rayna up to be attacked?" Landor said incredulously. "Denae!"

"Of course not!" she said. "I told her if she steals from the castle, I will have her arrested. I promised she would hang but I will at least have her branded if she steals from you after all you put up with from us. One of the guards will mention to her casually today that her trunks will be searched before she is allowed to leave. That should stop it. I know you did the same for Ruk when he was dismissed."

Landor nodded.

"Well, I am surprised you resolved this so quickly," he said. "I lay awake last night wondering what you would do. I wish you would have informed me yesterday so I wasn't so irritable this morning."

Denae smiled across at her father and then took his hand.

"I only decided this morning, Father," she said. "Otherwise, I would have not cost you another night's sleep. I know I have cost you several recently and I wish to apologize for that. If you believe another would serve better as your heir, I will step aside. That is now or ever, Father. That is a pledge I make to you as a daughter who loves you."

"No," Landor said. "I wish no one other than you to follow me. I always knew you would grow past this. I admit I had hoped there wouldn't be so much trouble caused, but it is done. We will move forward."

Denae smiled gratefully and hastened across to kiss her father's cheek. He put her arm around her and she sat on his lap, buried her face in his shoulder and cried.

"I am so sorry, Father," she said. "I never wanted to disappoint you. I knew it was stupid and wrong but I could not see a way out without hurting my friend. I finally understand, today maybe for the first time, that I was never her friend. I was only a means to her goal."

"I don't think so," Landor said softly. "I don't think that at all. I believe Rayna is your friend."

"Not after what she said today," Deane replied. "She saw me as a way to get what she never had. She threatened to take what I shared with her and use it against me. That is not a friend."

"It was a person who was looking for a way to strike back," Landor replied. "Just as your threats to her were, I would suggest you give her some time away from here – time living on her own and by her own means – then seek her out again to see if the friendship that was there remains. Now, on a better note, Jorgarn awakened during the night and he seems coherent, from what I've heard."

Denae, still seated on her father's lap, brightened.

"I know!" she said.

"So, your link has returned?" Landor asked with a smile.

"No," Denae said, returning to her despondent state. "I was there when he woke up. I stayed with him to help keep him awake so that Alite might sleep."

Landor was smiling but shaking his head.

"How did you happen to be there at night?" he wondered.

Denae blushed.

"I went to visit him, after everyone had left, I mean," Denae told him. "He was just lying there and, well, I lay down with him. I fell asleep but woke up when he did. Then I spent the rest of the night talking with him. Well, most of the night. I think I got too comfortable because I fell asleep again. It was very nice, actually. I hope I haven't upset you."

"No, I'm not upset," Landor said. "I am a bit surprised. Why didn't you visit when everyone else did?"

"I did not want an argument while he was asleep," Denae admitted. "I was still pretty certain yesterday that I would fight the Tribunal, file grievance after grievance until you desisted. I've heard it done that way before. I decided it was a silly way to handle things after speaking with Jorgarn. It was nice to just talk about nothing, just to talk about silly things. I lost that when I lost him."

"Did you discuss the link with him?" Landor queried.

"Some," she answered. "He wasn't concerned because he still has his, at least part of it. He can tell how I'm feeling, at least. He said if it is still a problem after his head heals, we'll try to figure it out. But there is no sense worrying about it. If it comes back, it comes back. If it doesn't, we'll work toward restoring it. If it never returns, we'll learn to exist like normal people. But I'll miss it. I know that."

Landor considered for a moment before speaking.

"Perhaps he is right, then," he decided. "It would be wonderful if that were the case. He didn't seem angry or hurt by how you've acted."

"Not really," Denae said. "He said he understands Rayna's reasoning. He actually said he still thinks there is a nice person lurking beneath her motives. But I know how her brother turned out, so I wonder."

"Jorgarn believes Rayna acted out of circumstance and not malice?" Landor said in a questioning tone. "I suppose I can see that. Her childhood was rather difficult until they came to live her. I have gathered that things were not always well even when her father lived. Still, that is a surprising answer from Jorgarn."

"I think Jorgarn is very compassionate, Father," Denae said quickly.

"Oh, I think so, too," Landor agreed. "But he is also suspicious and he is slow to forgive. Once he decides upon a course of action, it takes much to dissuade him. I believe he questions the motives of everyone and he trusts very few – also a product of his childhood, I think. Still, if you would like, I will use my contacts in the village to secure Rayna employment. It won't be working in the castle as your aide but it will be better than working at a tavern or winding up the wife of a blacksmith. There are other young women in need of an assistant. I know of an opening off the top of my head with the seamstress Lorida uses. Would you like for me to inquire as to whether she would accept Rayna?"

"I believe that would be acceptable," Denae replied. "Do you think it is wise? What if she doesn't work out or tries to take over there?"

"Then she will be fired as she was here," Landor said with a shrug that lifted Denae's head off his shoulder. She giggled when she landed there again.

"If you could do that, I would appreciate it then," Denae said. "Perhaps you would prefer if I spoke to Stepmother about it when I offer her my apologies for my behavior. Incidentally, do you think I could be excused from our lessons today? I believe it will take me most of the day to find everyone."

Landor laughed.

"I believe we can miss our lesson on the economic value of coal versus peat," he said. "In fact, since Jorgarn is skiving off his meetings with Torbert for the next few days, I think you and I should take a break also. If there is something particular you would like to discuss or if you have questions about what we've already covered, I will be available. But let's take a few days to let the information sink in before we plod further. I will speak to Lorida about the job. I think I can be more convincing than you. Agreed?"

Denae nodded.

"I do have questions about some of what you've imparted," she admitted. "But I wish to discuss them with Jorgarn first to see if he can offer insights before I ask them. He might answer the ones I have or add more to them. He has an interesting view of the feudal economy. You and he should discuss it sometime – when Torbert and I are there to referee."

"You believe he will disagree with me?" Landor said.

"Oh, most definitely," Denae said with a laugh. "And I think by the time he is done stating his opinion, you will disagree with you, too."

She kissed her father on the cheek again.

"I am off to eat the first of my humble pie," she said ruefully.

"Perhaps you should just wait with Jorgarn until they visit him," Landor suggested with a grin. "That way you don't have to run all over the castle."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 31



Although said partly in jest, Denae decided to accept what her father had said and she walked to the infirmary. She was surprised to see Jorgarn sitting up in the bed and the room empty.

He smiled as she entered.

"Good day, Princess," he said with a nod of his head. It did not appear to cause him great distress.

"Good day to you, Sir Knight," she said with a bow and a grin. "You appear well."

"My head no longer feels as though it was stepped on by an elephant," he said. "Now it simply feels as though I was kicked by a horse. That is a major success, I think."

"It sort of looks as though you've been kicked by a horse, too," Denae said with a smirk. "But that is no different from before. I'm glad you feel better. I worried about you."

"You say I look as though I was kicked by a horse and then follow it by how you worry about me?" Jorgarn asked with a mock frown. "I am unsure what to believe."

Denae walked quickly across the floor and put her hands on his cheeks. She kissed his lips firmly.

"Believe that I care greatly about you and I'm sorry it took this for me to see how much you mean to me," she said, then kissed him again for good measure. "Do you mind if I sit with you?"

Jorgarn shifted over slightly to allow Denae a spot on the bed.

"I can sit in the chair," she insisted. "I want you to be comfortable."

"I thought we discussed your delicate rear last night – or this morning," he said as he smiled toward her.

She returned his smile sadly.

"How can you act as though nothing has happened?" she asked. "How do you pretend that we have not spent the past month at odds?"

"I do not pretend that," Jorgarn said simply. "I overlook that and I forgive that. I ask that you forgive me, too. I accept that it happened and move forward while looking to ensure it doesn't happen again. We can dwell on the past incessantly or we identify what happened, learn from it and move forward. There are no other ways to approach this that I can think of."

"You ask my forgiveness?" Denae asked with a touch of wonder in her voice. "Why?"

"I was mulish," Jorgarn said. "You and I reached an impasse and instead of speaking plainly and like adults, we hid behind our anger and our arrogance and allowed it to become larger than it needed to be. Bralan was an unwitting pawn in a war between Rayna and me. You were the prize. I believed I already had claimed the prize, so I refused to fight. I could have stopped Rayna in the days after your Ascension. I could have pulled her aside and explained the facts to her, perhaps more plainly than you could have. I could have had her slain or turned the castle against her. I could have pointed out the plot to you, because she was transparent. Instead, I hid behind them. I remember you telling me that my most important job was to save you from yourself. I failed at that. Instead, I hid my misgivings about Rayna in respect for your feelings.

"I refused to discuss it with you," Jorgarn continued, "And I refused to allow you to sense my suspicions. When I did finally address them, I did so callously and angrily. I let my protectiveness of my sister override my job – which is to protect you and Emertland. Instead of speaking to you rationally, I spoke in haste and without tact. Then I became angry when you became angry and I pushed you away as you pushed me away. There is much for which I need to be forgiven. My actions and reactions were no more mature than yours."

Denae sat and stared at Jorgarn.

"I do not believe you require forgiveness," she said after a moment's pause. "The missteps were mine and I believe most – if not all – who know the facts would agree with me. But if you request forgiveness, I offer it readily and beg the same."

Jorgarn sighed.

"We each reacted without thought," he said. "Of course I forgive you. I promise that I will attempt to think more clearly before speaking and I will be more open about any qualms I might have. I know that the louder the voice, the less is actually heard. Now all we can do is accept that the situation was untenable and correct our actions. At least now, we are aware of some of the pitfalls that might be ahead of us. So, what brings you here this morning? I thought you had lessons with your father."

"I have come to apologize to those people I have hurt with my unthinking actions," Denae said with downcast eyes. "Father suggested that I wait here and catch them as they visited you rather than seek them out across the castle. Will that pose a problem for you?"

Jorgarn shook his head.

"It will allow each of us to apologize at the same time," he said as he patted the spot on the bed that still was clear. "Please, sit with me."

Denae moved into her familiar spot in the crook of Jorgarn's arm. It was there where she felt most comfortable under Creation.

"Once you are well, do you suppose you would be willing to sit with me and help me select my staff?" she asked tentatively. "Rayna was released this morning. I am without attendants altogether now."

Jorgarn saw Denae's downcast eyes and kissed her softly on the side of her head.

"I am sorry to hear you released Rayna," he said. "Perhaps in time you both will learn to focus on the positive parts of your relationship and mend it. I hope that is the case. I know she was your friend. The only suggestion I can make is send your apology to Bralan and Usala with a request that they consider a return. I know you enjoyed having them around you. I also believe they will offer sound advice in the future. If you are uncomfortable with that option, we have several indications that many young noblewomen who might find themselves unfit for the Guard plan to join. Sir Torbert has a much better feel for their capabilities and perhaps one or two of them would be better suited for your staff."

"What of Leyota?" Denae asked. "Have I done too much that she will not return?"

"Perhaps she will," Jorgarn said with a slight chuckle. "It is for purely selfish reasons that I excluded her – and the fact I believe she enjoys her new job."

"She has already been retained?" Denae asked. She cursed herself for being so caught up with her own life that she completely missed what was happening around her.

"Retained?" Jorgarn wondered. "Perhaps not retained but she gained a job offer rather quickly after her resignation. She needed to find employment or return to a situation where she was uncomfortable. I hired her onto my staff. I suppose you could say she is my senior attendant."

Denae turned her head so quickly her hair whipped Jorgarn's cheek.

"She is 11 years old!" she said. "How is she your senior attendant? Or is she the entirety of your staff?"

Jorgarn laughed again.

"I will have you know that I am up to three employees," Jorgarn said. "I believe my staff is almost filled with the exception of Master Ducotte and a senior steward to run things."

Denae lowered her head and shook it. She had not even known Jorgarn was accepting interviews. She had lost touch with everything. But she was now stuck with only one course of action to ensure no one ever defied her. She would have to incorporate Jorgarn as an equal part of her life. His might would keep anyone from daring to resist her rule.

"Leyota is my corresponding secretary," Jorgarn said, oblivious to the fact that Denae's mind was elsewhere. His words brought her back to their conversation.

"You have correspondence?" Denae asked with wrinkled eyebrows.

Jorgarn rolled his eyes and sighed.

"I receive as many as a dozen posts each day," he said. "Some of them are from people looking for work; others are from Lords and Ladies wishing to introduce me to their daughters. Still others are purely social invitations. Those are usually addressed to both of us but they have been delivered to me for the past weeks. It is why I had to employ two others."

"You have three people answering your letters," Denae laughed.

"Actually, Leyota takes care of all the letters," Jorgarn corrected with a smile. "Drosset's job is to make sure I do not leave my chamber without my pants. Merg is my messenger, mostly because Drosset and Leyota refused to deliver anything to you or Rayna that did not include poison. I offered jobs to Bralan and Usala but they both demurred. I will admit both of those offers were slightly out of spite."

He tugged Denae tightly to her and kissed the top of her head.

"So, your staff consists of an 11 year old, a nine year old and a seven year old," Denae laughed.

"I will have you know that Drosset will be 10 in a week," Jorgarn said. "But they actually work well for what I need. Leyota is perhaps too plainspoken to work for you but her handwriting is beautiful and she has been around nobility long enough to turn a nice phrase. Merg can go anywhere and do anything without a soul taking a second glance. Drosset is just happy to have something to do and someone who actually notices he exists. I have to say, I find my staff perfectly acceptable."

Denae nodded then glanced over at Jorgarn.

"I doubt I heard Leyota say two dozen words," she said.

"She was somewhat intimidated at the beginning and somewhat angry at the end," Jorgarn admitted. "Her personality does not lend itself to gossiping and ruse. We work well together, actually."

He leaned over and whispered conspiratorially.

"She even says she likes marmalade," he joked. "That was the main requirement, you know. Merg will eat anything and Drosset is much the same."

"So they no longer train with you?" Denae asked. "I doubt they like that."

"Oh, no," Jorgarn said. "The nice part is that my staff doesn't meet in the castle. We discuss our necessities on the field. Leyota is becoming quite adept with a short sword. All three will make fine warriors someday."

Jorgarn turned his head and squinted his eyes.

"In fact, I believe I hear my herd of small elephants rumbling this way right now," he said. "They are becoming good at sneaking up on me but their footsteps can't be muffled in the corridors."

Sure enough, three heads popped around the doorframe. Each frowned at what they saw – Jorgarn with this tongue sticking out at them to let them know he heard them and the Princess sitting at his side.

-------

Leyota's face belied the least. Merg's mouth dropped but he closed it quickly. Drosset simply crossed his arms and stared.

"Princess Denae, may I present to you my attendants," Jorgarn said with a flourish – that included a set of raised eyebrows at Drosset, whose face instantly became slack.

"Well met and allow me to offer the first of many apologies that I owe each of you for not greeting you sooner," she said sweetly. "I see that Sir Jorgarn has assembled a first-rate set of advisers and I'm jealous because my first attempt was a dismal failure."

Leyota looked as though she was about to speak but glanced at Jorgarn and closed her lips tightly.

"I guess I should start with the youngest," Denae said as she slipped from the bed and knelt in front of Merg, whose eyes widened.

"Master Merg," she said. "I have never fully appreciated your capabilities. Sir Jorgarn speaks very highly of you and I am very happy to know that I will have the opportunity to know you better, if you will permit it."

Merg gulped.

"Of course, Your Majesty," he stammered.

Denae smiled and put her hand on his shoulder.

"I would like it greatly if you would call me Denae when we're not with a group of people," she said. "I hope that I will get the chance to be as close a friend to you as I know Sir Torbert and Sir Jorgarn are. It is my understanding that you are one of their favorite people."

Merg smiled and nodded his head. Denae moved over in front of Drosset, who had done his best to wipe the look of hatred from his face but hadn't quite succeeded.

"Master Drosset," Denae said. "I do not even know where to begin to start my apologies to you. First, I am sorry that your sister was harmed by my attendant. I am sorry that I not only permitted it, I perpetuated it. I will apologize to her personally today and to Lady Eslada for my actions. I do not expect their forgiveness readily, nor do I expect yours. I hope, in time, you will come to view me as a friend who did something stupid and accept that I will do my best to ensure that no further harm comes to your sister or to your guardian. I am very sorry."

Drosset didn't speak but simply nodded his head.

Denae looked at her feet when stepped in front of Leyota.

"The words I said to each of the young men are true for you, Mistress Leyota," Denae said. "I looked at your age and overlooked your abilities. It seems it was your counsel I should have sought from the outset but instead I relied upon others and it failed me. I am sorry that it reached a spot where you would have preferred to return to your family than stay with me but I am thankful that Jorgarn had enough sense to keep you where you are happy and needed. I will forever regret what happened but I am sure one of my deepest regrets will be that I lost the chance to come to know you as closely as I would have. I do hope that the three of you will accept my apologies and I hope that we all can learn from what I did to make sure it doesn't happen again."

Leyota once again glanced at Jorgarn, who sighed and nodded.

"Your Highness," Leyota said. "I will ask forgiveness also for what I am about to say. Not only did you cause Bralan unnecessary injury but you also placed your Knight in a position where he was forced to choose between his duty to you and what was right for Emertland. You say that you overlooked my abilities. I agree that you did for I was smart enough to see what was happening right beneath your nose and I would have been smart enough to offer a solution if you had sought my advice. However, I recognized from the outset that I was a charity case for you – a way for you to thumb your nose at my sister and to feel good about all the good you were doing for Emertland. I, however, viewed my role different and I am thankful I am finally in a position where my opinion is sought and appreciated."

She took a deep breath and appeared to be about to continue when Jorgarn spoke.

"I am glad that is out in the open, Leyota," he said softly with a slight smile at the girl. "Denae, I hope you will accept what she told you with grace. Although I can see what she said was hurtful to you, I believe you will come to understand that she was correct. Now, what have you for me today, lady and gentlemen?"

Denae wiped a tear from her eye and started to move toward the door.

"Princess, some of this is relevant to your interests, too," Leyota said. "Perhaps you could stay. It will save Merg a trip to track down Rayna for deliveries."

"Rayna is no longer employed," Jorgarn said. "We will be sharing a staff until we can fill hers."

"Jorgarn, are you sure that is advisable?" Denae said sadly. "I am sure they don't want to help me. Why should they? I have never helped them in the slightest."

Jorgarn looked at all three of the young people in front of him.

"My staff knows its duty is to Emertland first," he said with pride in his voice. "I believe this fine group can set aside their personal feelings for the good of the Crown in the short term."

Denae saw Merg and Drosset stand a little taller, their small chests puffed out. Leyota nodded her agreement.

"Merg, is there anything happening I should know?" Jorgarn asked. Merg glanced toward Denae before shaking his head.

"You know the big news, Jorgarn," he said softly.

Jorgarn nodded and turn to Drosset.

"How go things, Drosset?" he asked.

"I have sent the clothes you wore yesterday to the laundress," he said. "She doesn't know if they can be cleaned. I reminded Leyota that your property payment is due and I took the message you gave me to Master Fieth to send overland to Lord Turcotte, asking him to present his son for a spot on your general staff before entering the guard."

He looked downward.

"I was supposed to do it yesterday but I forgot," he said sadly. "My sincerest apologies."

Jorgarn smiled.

"Since you are the only one of us who even remembered the letter existed, well done," he said. "I see you do not need my guidance at all. Leyota, you seem to have everything under control. Did we receive any post yesterday?"

"You did," she said. "You and Princess Denae are cordially invited to attend the wedding of Lord Halette's oldest granddaughter to a minor noble from..."

She glanced at her paper.

"Well, from somewhere," she said. "I forgot to write it down. There also were two letters of recommendation for the gentleman you were considering as your lead steward."

"The wedding, is it in Emertland?" he asked. "Otherwise, it might be important to know where it is. But I'm certain it is not something we need to decide today. Thank you and don't forget, Pernice is going to see to your training until I'm on my feet again. Well, at least on my feet and not swaying slightly. That appears to be my biggest issue right now. I guess you know where to find me if you need something. Otherwise, just do as you're doing. Well done."

All three smiled at Jorgarn but seem hesitant to leave. He swung he his legs over the bed and extended his arms. One by one, the young people came forward and accepted a hug.

"We were worried about you," Leyota whispered. "Don't do anything stupid like that again without talking to me. She was supposed to get hit on the head and dragged from the castle. The plan was not for you to get hit on the head and dragged to the castle."

She kissed Jorgarn on the cheek and herded the boys from the room.

-------

Denae turned to Jorgarn with a smile that threatened to split her face.

"Those three would battle the Creator herself for you," she said. "They set about to do the things they knew you wanted done without even you to prompt them. At some point, I want you to teach me to do that."

"Let them know what your expectations are and allow them to meet them," Jorgarn said with a shrug. "I treat them the same as I do the Guard. I try to be clear when I give them a task. I don't tell them how to do it if I know they already know. Then I get on with what I should be doing and allow them to do what they should be doing."

Denae sat pondering for a moment.

"I never did that," she said. "I always wanted to stand over top of those who have worked for me to make sure they were doing it to my satisfaction. I wonder why? I hate to have people do that to me."

"Different approaches to people, I suppose," Jorgarn said. "It will get easier in a few weeks, I suspect. I believe I have come to decide who my senior steward will be."

Denae raised her eyes.

"Flavon Stenweed," Jorgarn told her. "He is the former administrator for the village where Pernice was raised. He is quite qualified."

"You are bringing a former city administrator to lead your staff?" she wondered. "That seems a boring job for him."

"It is more of a village than a city, I can assure you," Jorgarn laughed. "Perhaps a quarter of the size of the capital, also, he needs a job. I spoke to him about how my staff is to be comprised. With the exception of the lead steward, the rest will change year to year. I planned for Leyota to be permanent but I fear I will lose her to the Guard, too. I want a senior person in charge but the other four positions will be reserved for those I believe to have a future in the Guard. It will give me an early start to their training and it will help to teach them responsibility when they are younger."

"Why would a village administrator want a job like that?" Denae wondered.

Jorgarn wondered how to broach the subject but decided to go at it straightforward.

"Master Stenweed enjoys sex with other men," he said with a shrug. "I do not consider that a hindrance but many in Pernice's village were appalled when it came to light. I have spoken to many there. His job performance was first rate. He was not retained because of his sexuality. Will that pose a problem for you?"

Denae shook her head.

"Perhaps we could simply share a staff," Denae said. "I could hire one or two permanent staff, as well, and keep the others for early training."

Jorgarn considered her statement.

"Truly, I believe you will need more stability than I do," he finally answered. "First, well, I adapt a little better than you do."

This earned him a slight poke in the ribs.

"More importantly," he continued with a laugh, "your staff will be advising you. My staff is more functioning. There are things I need done than I am unlikely to do for myself. For instance, the invitation to that wedding. I would be likely either to ignore the offer or reply 'No.' Leyota will speak to everyone under Creation and determine if we should go, then she will convince me to go if we should. But I foresee very few instances when I ask anyone for advice outside of you, King Landor, Sir Torbert or Lady Eslada. It will be your job to keep current on the happenings of the land, not mine."

He smiled to show he wasn't entirely serious. He cocked his head as he picked up footfalls in the corridor again.

"Visitors," he said. "Are you ready or do you wish more time? I am certain it is either Eslada and Bralan or Eslada and Usala. It is not a man."

Denae nodded grimly and stood beside Jorgarn's bed. He heard her gulp when Eslada turned the corner to the room and stop suddenly.

Bralan walked right into her guardian's back.

Eslada's eyes narrowed dangerously but she elected to ignore Denae and spoke directly to Jorgarn.

He was glad her eyes held more warmth when she turned them on him.

"I am so relieved," she said. "I worried that I had harmed you severely."

Jorgarn laughed and tried to lighten the heavy weight that fell in the room.

"You know the last thing I thought of?" he asked. He didn't wait for a reply. "I thought, 'You know, it would have been smarter to let Eslada know what I was planning.'"

Bralan smiled and Jorgarn saw Eslada fighting one.

"But then, I knew you could never keep a secret," he continued before turning serious. "I could come up with no other way to stop this."

Eslada's face lost the humor it had displayed.

"There was no reason for either you or the Princess to get involved," she said. "The fact I was forced to harm my own son is another thing I will hold that artless cow responsible for."

She turned toward Denae who was shuffling nervously.

"This is your doing," she said with no trace the respect she usually used when addressing the royal family. "Although Jorgarn and your father might not see it, you can rest assured that I do. I know what you're about and I will battle you every step of the way. You can blame your actions on that stupid girl, but I know well enough that a person can't be led where they do not wish to go. So you can apologize and grovel to the others if you see fit. But do not waste your time or mine apologizing to me. While in time it might have been possible for me to forgive the way you treated Bralan, I will never find it in my heart to accept how you have manipulated Jorgarn."

She cast a hard gaze at her stepson.

"And I will never forgive myself for encouraging him to be put into a situation where he permitted you to manipulate him," she said. "You are not the first man to be controlled using desire and longing. I know you believe Denae is the first person to show you genuine affection. But I suggest you take a look at her recent actions before deciding if that affection was truly genuine and if she is truly as naïve as she wishes everyone to think."

She turned and led Bralan from the room without another word.

-------

In the end, Eslada and Bralan weren't the only ones to allow hard feelings to linger. Although Torbert set aside his personal feelings for the sake of the King, Batrix took Astid back to Weltin. Jorgarn's assessment proved incorrect in other ways, too. Both Bralan and Usala declined an invitation to rejoin the Princess' staff. Bralan and Eslada took up residence in a home in the newly named region of Longview and were seen at the castle only sparingly for the next year, although Drosset was allowed to remain in Jorgarn's care. Usala elected to remain with her father in the capital but decided to train as a medic before returning to Weltin in a few years to assume the Ladyship.

Jorgarn found everyone's actions puzzling. He, too, had been angered by the actions Rayna convinced Denae to follow, but he found a way to forgive her. Even Fieth and Renoit took great pains to avoid castle duty, coming only when ordered by Torbert or Jorgarn.

It was left to Torbert to help Jorgarn make sense of things.

"Rayna was a convenient excuse but you've read enough of our history to realize what is happening," he said with an air of resignation. "I didn't believe it possible but I tend to agree with Lorida. Denae is only going to get worse. She has found that she can blunder forward and you'll fix things for her. I suppose she rarely had much use for the feelings of others who are close to her, but if anything she has gotten worse with age. Don't get me wrong, I believe you will keep her from making many horrendous mistakes and for the most part, I think she is a decent person. She has just learned to look out for herself first and worry about others later."

"I don't see that, Torbert," Jorgarn said. "I mean, I think I know her as well as anyone and better than most. I know she is a bit overwhelmed at what she is facing but I also sense genuine remorse about how she acted."

Torbert nodded.

"You can sense the emotions but can you sense the reason behind the emotions?" he wondered. "Look, I know the connection you two shared is diminished. I think the reason is because Denae has locked you out. I think she is worried that you will look inside her thoughts and find out what is really going on there. I'm afraid I casually mentioned that I had found a way to isolate part of my thoughts from Landor. I could give him access to what I wanted him to see but keep private thoughts – such as my affection for my family – from him. I believe she learned to do that and now she is just keeping everything from you.

"Those threats she made to Rayna, she would have done it. She will do them if Rayna steps out of line. I can see it when I look at her. She has just now grasped how much power she has. She has finally figured out that she can do pretty much as she pleases so long as she keeps you and her father happy. So that is what she is doing. She apologized to Usala and Bralan not because she felt sorry. She apologized because you and Landor expected her to. Look at the people she has surrounded herself with. They are all easily manipulated. And, sadly, she has figured out that you love her and you'll forgive her. I know how she managed it and I'm certain it was Rayna's idea. But Denae has gone through with it.

"You are somewhat new to the ways of women. You've seen Eslada but she is upfront about things. She doesn't play games and hide behind her gender. If you anger her, she'll tell you why and she'll tell you what the penalty is. Batrix is like that, too. But Denae isn't. She'll sulk and pout and deny anything is wrong. But all the while she is treating you like refuse and waiting for you to figure out where you erred. When you do figure it out, it takes another week to figure out just how she plans to punish you. I've seen it. Blazes, I've been on that end of it. So she will outwardly appear to do what you and Landor expect but she will be looking for ways to make certain she gets what she wants out of the deal."

Jorgarn sighed.

"I know me well enough to know that I will not react well if I find your theory is true," Jorgarn said. "And you're correct. I do not understand women in the slightest. But I still don't think Denae's behavior is as stark as you and Eslada seem to believe."

Torbert nodded.

"Jorgarn, Usala has passed along some of the things she overheard Denae and Rayna discussing," he said. "If you want to understand it better, speak to her or to Leyota. I believe neither of them will mislead you and neither of them have a reason to lie to you. Your friends see it. That is why they don't come around any longer. Denae is trying to isolate you from them the way she allowed Rayna to isolate her from everyone else. You've seen how upset she gets if you join them in the dining hall instead of coming back up here. You heard what she said when you told her that you were planning to go on a three-week training mission with them.

"She is Landor's daughter and he loves her. I know you love her, too. So do I, but watch her when she doesn't know you're there. See how she rolls her eyes when she is speaking to people – everyone, really. You'll see that she is disinterested in fulfilling her primary role as Heiress – to inspire confidence in the public and to present a good face for the Monarchy – unless it appears that someone she wants to impress is watching. Then she is all smiles and nods and laughs. Even Merg is starting to dislike her and he likes everyone you do, just because you like them."

Jorgarn frowned deeply.

"Why did you push me into accepting this role then?" he asked bitterly. "Why is everyone pushing me to take her as my wife?"

Torbert tilted his head and looked at the floor.

"It is purely selfish reasons, at least on my part," he said. "I know that once you look at the way she is, you won't allow it. You will stand up to her and put her in her place. You will tell her 'no' and stick to your decision. But you have to take the blinders off and look at more than just what she wants you to see. That is what Eslada was trying to tell you. Look past the pretty face and impeccable manners. Think beyond your nighttime activities and get a grasp on what the days look like. You will need to do that to be an effective buffer between her and absolute ruin for Emertland. And you are perhaps the only person in the world who Denae genuinely fears."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



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Chapter 32



As the months passed, Jorgarn took Torbert's advice to heart. He began to casually find ways to watch Denae from a distance. At first, he didn't notice anything amiss. Then he realized that she had an attendant who would nudge her occasionally if she wasn't paying attention.

If a decision of any sort had to be made, she would always leave the room with the attendant before making it. During those times, Jorgarn tried his hardest to find a way into her thoughts but he never could.

Denae seemed to forget about the loss of the connection they once had. At least she never spoke of it and she showed no interest in trying to regain it. Jorgarn suspected it was just as well. What Torbert told him about selective sharing had left him rather cold on the subject.

The arrival of Court brought out another side of Denae that Jorgarn found irritating: arrogance.

Jorgarn immediately noticed that Denae was not immune to flattery. She preened like a peacock when someone would comment on her stylish clothing or her beauty. He also noticed that she routinely found reasons to speak privately with some of the male courtiers who seemed to offer the most praise.

She steadfastly refused to speak to any member of nobility unless they bowed and scraped to get an appointment. Young women who had been her friend for years at Court suddenly found they were unwelcome. Denae would only entertain families who held a large portion of land or contributed large amount of goods to Emertland. It was a far cry from the young lady he thought he knew.

Denae was particularly irritated when Bralan returned to the castle to take her spot among the first class of Imperial Guards. Jorgarn greeted Bralan with a warm hug and Denae refused to speak to him for two days. When she decided he had been punished enough, the first thing she wanted to speak about was their engagement.

A Royal Wedding is an event unto itself and a year's planning would be needed, Denae told him. She wanted to get married as soon as possible so they should announce their betrothal before Court came to a conclusion.

During the first week of Court, before Bralan and the guard classes arrived, Denae was more interested in spending her evenings with Lords and heirs to Lordship than discussing a marriage to him. She had stayed out late each evening and Jorgarn found himself sleeping alone four nights that week. Jorgarn mentioned this and did so with real anger in his voice, and Denae quickly apologized.

"No need to apologize," Jorgarn responded. "I know those are relatively meaningless to you, so any coming from you are meaningless to me. However, if I agree to marry you whatever dalliances you have started stop immediately. If we are to be wed, then I expect – no I demand – fidelity. You will cease your nighttime wanderings or I will embarrass you and your paramours by demanding armed combat with them. I believe you will create no new friends if I kill off your old ones. And I will kill them off if you force me to. I will not allow your dishonor to stain my honor. Am I understood?"

Jorgarn saw Denae's face mottle with anger but he maintained his stare. He prompted her again when she didn't reply.

"I ask if I am understood?" he said loudly.

Denae's eyes narrowed before she spoke.

"Yes," she said. "I understand completely. You're allowed to be jealous but I am not."

"I am jealous only when you give me reason to be," Jorgarn pointed out. "I am not the one who has come home in the middle of the night and had to be helped to bed by an attendant. Your jealousy stems from some irrational portion of your mind. Mine stems from your actions. I promise you, should one of your nighttime friends smirk at me again, he will do it with less teeth the next time. Now, as I said, if you want to continue on your path, then there is no need to discuss a betrothal at this point. In fact, there is no need to discuss it again."

Denae again didn't reply.

"Oh, and remember something," Jorgarn said with a smile. "Regardless of what your father or your admirers might tell you, the people of this town like me much better than they like you. Unless you plan to have your dalliances in a place out of town, there is no way I won't find out."

That evening, a tearful Denae turned up at Jorgarn's chamber.

"I know you view my apologies as worthless," she said. "But I have never apologized to you when it wasn't sincere. Over the past days, I seemed to have developed a fondness for wine. With that fondness, I seem to have developed a loss of my senses. What has happened will never happen again. If you hold to your agreement to marry me, there will be no repeat of my actions."

"Well, first, I have never agreed to marry you," Jorgarn said. "So that is a disingenuous point. Secondly, after the accidents your friends suffered tonight, I doubt you will have many anxious to fondle you again. It seemed they were somewhat less than discrete and some of the Noble Guard took exception to their words. But, you will be happy to know than Master Sesserly and Master Dobling agree you have a 'talented little mouth'."

Denae blushed scarlet and covered the mentioned orifice. She had never expected Jorgarn to find out. He disliked Court parties and she was certain that no one would be stupid enough to say anything to anyone.

Jorgarn simply stood there with a placid look upon his face.

"Should it happen again, it will prove fatal so make sure you pick someone you don't actually care about," he said. "That should be easy for you since you appear to care about no one but yourself. Good night, Your Highness."

-------

Denae worked doubly hard for the remaining weeks of Court for a return to Jorgarn's good graces. She truly wanted to announce their betrothal in front of everyone. She particularly wanted to see Bralan's face. She would make sure the Imperial Guards were up front when the announcement was made.

Jorgarn appeared to be intractable. He spoke to Denae only about matters of state and he locked his chamber door at all times. Leyota pointedly ignored Denae, going so far as to leave the room once when the Princess was speaking to her. Merg and Drosset found it easiest to avoid her by staying out the castle altogether.

King Landor had initially refused to take sides. He heard of Denae's actions and he was disappointed. He was thankful that several members of the Noble Guard had taken the initiative to maintain her reputation even if the Princess didn't seemed to find it necessary. Denae beseeched the King to approach Jorgarn about a marriage. She threatened to rescind the Tremaine lands that she had deeded to Jorgarn but Torbert pointed out that wouldn't be possible.

"I was quite clear when those were drafted," he said. "The lands were given to Jorgarn without regard to any agreement to marry you. If you recall, we discussed this at length. Those lands can be returned to the Crown if Jorgarn chooses but they cannot be taken from him."

Denae was not pleased but she knew Torbert was correct. She also knew the Tribunal would side against her without hesitation. The debacle with Rayna and Bralan had shown her that.

"Well, then I want you to approach someone else about a match then," Denae said. "Perhaps that will get Jorgarn's attention."

"Perhaps you might rethink that, Daughter," Landor said. "I am certain Lady Longview could arrange a match for Jorgarn in 20 minutes. Actually, she probably wouldn't have to. As soon as word leaked out that I was attempting to marry you off, the nobles would beat down the castle door for a chance to speak to him. Those men who wooed you, they didn't do that because they like you or think highly of you or even wish to wed you. They did it because of your station and because they are jealous of Jorgarn. The first thing they did was announce your indiscretion for everyone to hear. Consider that for a day then tell me what you wish."

Denae elected to continue to try to win Jorgarn's affection again but the end of Court passed without an announcement. The following day, after all the carriages had left the capital, Jorgarn approached King Landor and asked for the Princess' hand in marriage.

King Landor laughed for almost a minute.

"If she wishes to announce it at Court, it can be next year," Jorgarn said. "So long as she maintains decorum until then, I will agree. However, I want it known and in the contract, that should she prove unfaithful I will be permitted to end the betrothal without reprisal. If we are already wed, I will divorce her without hesitation. I expect it to be worded thusly and I will not agree to any pact that gives her license to behave as she did."

The King considered Jorgarn's demand. It was unusual to the extreme. He could think of no marriage contract in the past that contained such a disclaimer.

"Do you think it should read that either of you may end the betrothal in the event of infidelity?" Landor asked diplomatically.

"I don't," Jorgarn said. "I have given no reason for that to be included. Your daughter has. If she insists, we will discuss it or we will dispense with the agreement altogether. Now, Sire, with your leave, my staff and I plan to travel to Pernice's village this evening. He plans to announce his betrothal to Alite tomorrow. We will return in a week."

The King nodded his agreement and sat back heavily. The battle of wills between Jorgarn and Denae was starting to make him physically ill. Perhaps it would be best if they did not marry. It was clear that Jorgarn was no longer in love with Denae. Landor wondered if Denae was ever in love with Jorgarn or simply saw him as someone who could guarantee no one opposed her for long. But he was obligated to discuss the matter with his daughter.

With a loud sigh, he got to his feet and went to find Denae.

-------

Denae's reaction was nothing like Landor expected. She didn't cry, scream or run from the room. She listened to the message the King delivered without much of a reaction at all.

"I would like to discuss it with Jorgarn in private," she said. "I hope I can catch him in his room tonight. Can I give you a firmer answer tomorrow?"

Landor shook his head.

"Jorgarn is not in the castle and will not return for seven days," Landor replied.

This provoked a reaction from Denae: anger.

"How can he just leave without discussing it with me?" she roared. "This is ridiculous. Torbert does not treat you this way. I demand that he be summoned back to the castle."

"So summon him, if you wish," Landor said with resignation. "I shall not. I am positive that Jorgarn has made arrangements with Torbert or one of the Seconds to accompany you. I'm positive he checked your schedule to ensure that you had nothing planned. Those are his only requirements. I am equally certain this trip has been scheduled for several weeks if you had bothered to ask him. He is not your servant. You should realize that by now. He comes and goes as he sees fit – just as Torbert does. I have the consideration of alerting him in advance if I need him to be somewhere on a particular day. But he does not clear his schedule with me."

"He is here all the time!" Denae said, her anger not diffused in the slightest.

"Perhaps but he is not at my beck and call at all times," Landor replied calmly. "I believe before you discuss marriage, you and Jorgarn should discuss the different views you two hold of his job and his duties."

Denae's face pinched tightly.

"We have had that discussion many times," she said.

"But no compromise has been reached?" Landor asked.

"His duties are spelled out in the writings Torbert gave him, apparently," Denae said sarcastically. "Or so he says. He will not allow me to see them so I don't know for certain. Torbert takes his side though."

"Then those are his duties," Landor said simply. "The precedent has been set and I'm positive Jorgarn is living up to the standards in his teachings. Torbert would not permit otherwise. You and I discussed this the first week of your teachings, if you recall. Although I noticed at the time you didn't feel the need to take notes on the subject. I will broach the subject with Torbert and if the writings are in agreement then you cannot compel Jorgarn to act differently."

"But you can," Denae whined.

"Perhaps," Landor answered. "I could call him back in regard to his duty with the Guard. But, again, I'm certain he arranged his leave with Torbert. However, even if it were possible, I wouldn't. So, you have a week to decide what you wish to discuss with Jorgarn upon his return. Please let me know as soon as possible so I may get the contract drawn and schedule a time for Eslada to come. I am certain Jorgarn will ask her to negotiate for him."

The negotiations were concluded quickly. Jorgarn asked for nothing in the way of dowry or entitlements. His only stipulation allowed him to end the betrothal or marriage with merit if Denae was found to have been unfaithful.

The Princess, acutely aware of the eyes upon her at Court, maintained her distance and refused to spend any unaccompanied time with a male who was not related to her. She knew Jorgarn would learn if she imbibed wine or if she even made eyes at a man. It rankled her and she bristled at the restrictions.

She was, after all, the Heiress to the Crown.

Denae found herself growing angrier and angrier with Jorgarn, who refused to share a chamber with her. He had been friendlier and had returned to joking with her during their meetings but he had refrained from any physical contact more intimate than holding her hand.

She hoped that this reluctance would have concluded when their marriage arrangements were revealed. She missed the feeling of power it gave her to have command of a man. She had learned quickly that the quickest way to achieve her aims was to flaunt her sexuality or to seem to offer intimate favors. As soon as she put forth those messages, men would do her bidding.

Every man except the one she most needed to gain control over – her Knight.

The announcement of the wedding was not met with great applause as Denae had expected. Rumors about the tension in the castle had been circulating throughout Court – as had rumors of the unusual clause Jorgarn had insisted be included in the contract.

Denae was certain that Eslada or Bralan had been the source of those rumors but King Landor refused to accept her assertions, telling her that many knew of the contract and it was as embarrassing to Jorgarn to have to put it there as it was to Denae to have it there.

"Once again, this is of your own making," Landor pointed out. "You have yet to mend your relationship with him because I do not believe you are truly sorry about your actions. Until you understand that what you did was, at best, immoral, then you and he are destined to have a very difficult life together. I believe that you should reconsider the contract. I am certain Jorgarn will release you from the betrothal without difficulty."

"I do not wish to be released from it," Denae said quickly.

If he were to attend to my needs, I would not have sought comfort elsewhere, Denae believed. She thought Jorgarn had gained control over things that are rightfully hers. It is only by marrying him that she could regain what she had lost.

Denae's plans and her hopes were put on hold. There were actually more important things than need to control Jorgarn. War had come to her homeland.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



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Part 2

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Chapter 33


The sun was just above the horizon when Jorgarn Elmwood spotted Emertland. It felt like a lifetime since he had seen the shores of his adopted homeland. But it had been only three years. He saw the captain signal the other ships to let them know the long journey was about at an end. Even over the roar of the sea, he heard the cheers go up from his shipmates and from the passengers on the ships around him.

Only a few of the passengers had been gone as long as Jorgarn – Pernice, Lippit and Belad sprang to mind – but all the others had been gone for at least two years. And there were many who were not returning home at all.

Almost 275 had left with him three years before. He had added reinforcements and sent back the wounded – including Bralan – after the first year, when Renoit and Melodart had replaced Fieth and Gorin. Men had come from neighboring countries to join the force – 70 Longview rangers had arrived days after Jorgarn's army encamped on the Salarian border. The Emperor had forbade Wenta from sending official aid, but Longview law allowed any who wished to join Jorgarn to leave without sanction. Wenta encouraged 100 of his best trackers to do just that, and 70 took him up on it. Now only 48 would be returning.

Domita sent a 35-man group, almost half of its newly formed standing army, to join. The men were called Cavalry and rode horses into battle. It was effective in the short term, although the men dismounted if the fighting became heavy. Its biggest use, Jorgarn had found, was in chasing down the enemy as it fled from the field.

Emertland's neighbor to the East, Tark, sent 100 archers into the fray. The Tarks used a stout bow, capable of firing over longer distances. And they set their arrows afire before casting them. Jorgarn had gasped at the tactic the first time he had seen it. The Tarks also brought 200 of their bows with them and trained 100 more to use them. Flaming death from a distance was certain to strike fear into an enemy's heart. Another group of 50 had come with Renoit and Melodart but the 100 who started didn't leave. The Tarks had fought bravely, but archers were usually poorly protected and a vital target. Thirty-two of the soldiers had died in the fighting.

Another group of enlistees came as a surprise to Jorgarn. Soldiers from Velotta, battle-hardened and grizzled, arrived to join the Emertland cause when their enlistments were up. Some months, they would come in pairs. Some months, there were 20. Weeks after Fieth and Gorin had headed back to Emertland; King Landor's forces were close to 500 strong. Now, barely 300 sailed back to Emertland.

Tears clouded Jorgarn's vision when he thought of the fallen. Some names came forth with waves of emotion – Usala and Alite, Traymer Ducotte and Bren Seni and Melodart, his mentor, his guide and his friend.

He dreaded telling Sir Torbert about the loss of his oldest daughter and heir. He hated to face Gorin when he told him of Melodart's death. He was certain Gorin already knew. Renoit and Melodart were scheduled to return home after a year, to trade Second duties with Gorin and Fieth, who would rejoin the fighting. He was certain the Seconds left behind would expect the worst.

At least Renoit was returning with him, wounded but recovered.

He spotted a contingent of 75 Guardsmen hurrying down the quay as his ship entered the harbor, Torbert and Gorin at the front. They were dressed in their battle armaments – chain mail, studded boots and tunics.

Jorgarn and Pernice stood on the prow as the ship neared the port, but no towing vessel came to meet them. The other ships sat farther out in the harbor, waiting their turn anxiously, the noise and excitement coming from them grew as each minute passed.

Word arrived in the castle as soon as the ships were spotted on the horizon. The guardsmen and guardswomen had dressed in their battlements quickly but cautiously. They marched in step to the dock to wait.

Torbert spotted the leader quickly, he stood, tall and proud, on the deck. The man had long, greasy hair that was tied behind his head but cascaded down his back. His reddish-brown beard hung to his chest. The time had come, at last.

Although there was 30 yards between them, Jorgarn heard Torbert's words clearly.

"Destroyer, you shall not take Emertland!" he yelled. "We will fight to a man. You might have us outnumbered but I promise you will be the first to fall! Sail from these shores and do not return."

Jorgarn heard the words but he did not understand them. He hazarded a glance at Pernice, who stood silently by his side. Pernice responded with a raised eyebrow and a shrug.

"Sir Torbert," Jorgarn yelled back. "It is me, Jorgarn. These are your troops, the guardsman and guardswomen of Emertland. We return to its shores victorious."

Jorgarn watched Torbert's eyes widen. The man's mouth dropped and he clutched at his chest before toppling backward. Only Gorin's quick hands kept Sir Torbert from crumpling to the ground.

-------

The war had started gradually. In fact, it had begun well before Jorgarn had left Longview for the first time, but no one knew it.

The ships passing through the sea between the countries had come under attack from what were believed to be pirate vessels. The attacks had been sporadic but gradually gained a consistency that Lippit had noticed. Pernice had suggested to King Landor that instead of sailors, the pirates meet Guardsmen on their next attempt.

The attack came as Lippit had predicted and the outcome was determined from the moment the pirate vessel had tossed its ropes aboard. Instead of attempting to repel the boarders, several strong hands grabbed the ropes and pulled the ship toward the Emertland vessel.

While the pirates looked for orders, the Guardsmen leaped aboard and attacked. A short but fierce battle ensued but when it concluded, the pirate vessel was controlled by the Guard. A cursory search revealed little, but Pernice found a true manifest hidden beneath the captain's bed. The ship was part of the Salarian Navy.

While Emertland and most of its bordering nations had used the "100-Year's Peace" as a time for downsizing their armies, the nation of Salaria, which had a minimal army to begin with, had increased its naval operations.

Salaria sat at the northernmost tip of the Tilico Sea, the body of water that separated Longview from Emertland. It bordered both nations but neither considered it a threat to its safety. Salaria was not a force to be reckoned with. The problem stemmed from the nationality of several sailors aboard the vessel. They spoke Salarian but Seni, whose province bordered the nation, could tell from their diction it was not their native tongue.

Landor was furious when he learned at least half the crew came from Salaria's neighbor, Gobrik – a land-locked nation that also sat on Emertland's northern border. The war began when Landor sent official notice to the Salarians that he had captured their ship and Emertland would try the sailors as pirates – and hang them afterward.

The reply was not what Landor – or anyone – expected. An envoy arrived a week after the missive was sent, demanding the release of the sailors, based on the fact that Salaria claimed the entirety of the Tilico Sea and the private vessel was contracted to ensure proper tariffs were paid.

"I will return to shore tomorrow afternoon where I expect the sailors to be prepared to return to their homeland," he declared imperiously. "Failure to release the sailors will be considered an act of war."

He tried to leave but Jorgarn and Torbert stepped in front of the door after a nod from Landor.

"Ownership of the seaway was decided in our last war," Landor said. "In case you forgot, you lost. Anything further than five miles from your coastline belongs to no one. Incidentally, your vessel was sailing under false colors in un-claimable waters. It has been spotted in Longview territorial waters. Do you really want to fight a battle with us one side and Swar on the other?

"Your sailors have been found guilty of piracy. The only thing you'll be able to take back with you is their bodies. Any further incursions into the territorial waters of a sovereign power will be construed as an overture for attack from Emertland. As a courtesy, we will allow the vessel you are on to depart with the next available tide, tomorrow evening I believe. If you choose to stay, you will be detained. If another ship enters our waters, it will be captured and its crew hung as pirates. If you force us into war, this time your country will not survive. I will annex it into Emertland and exile or kill your government heads. That is the only answer you can take back to Salaria."

Landor nodded again and Jorgarn and Torbert stepped aside; the envoy departed quickly, his face reddened by anger and embarrassment. Landor took a few minutes to calm his temper before he spoke.

"Gentleman, I will need volunteers for an invasion of Salaria," he said.

The attack on Salaria had begun weeks earlier, almost as soon as Landor realized what was happening. The Salarians had hoped to weaken Emertland – and perhaps Longview and Tark, as well – by stifling the flow of goods between the three lands with southern coastlines on the Pernarian Ocean.

Despite its proximity to the ocean, Emertland had no navy. It had never needed a navy. War was a land event, not a water one. The idea of one of its foes launching a full-scale attack via sea was unfathomable. Countries simply didn't invest the sort of money necessary to manufacture a naval fleet. Except Salaria, it seemed.

Ronac Belad and Bren Seni had volunteered to sneak into Salaria to provide intelligence and assess the actual strength of the Salarian militia and to investigate Salaria's ties to Gobrik. The King grudgingly accepted but he assigned a 20-man contingent to hasten to the border to provide relief to the spies if necessary.

Seni and Belad were each from provinces near Salaria and they believed they would have no trouble finding a way across the border safely. However, there had been little word from them in the weeks since the incident with the pirate ship.

In fact, it was almost 12 weeks before Jorgarn found the pair again. They slipped across the border to join Jorgarn's army after finding a way to scuttle four of the Salarian Navy's seven remaining ships.

It took only two months for Salaria to fall. The ruler had expected fiercer opposition from his forces but his land army consisted mostly of farmers and merchants conscripted into battle. The Salarian army had no taste for the flaming arrows and horse-riding demons from Emertland.

Jorgarn could have arrived at the Salarian capital in three weeks if he hadn't been slowed by the captives. He laid siege to the castle and six weeks after he crossed the border, the head of the Salarian nation was delivered to him in hope that Jorgarn would allow the country to choose its next ruler. Jorgarn accepted the head but declined the request.

King Landor had said all seized land was to be annexed into Emertland. Salaria was no more.

Inside the castle, Jorgarn found what he was looking for: a link to Gobrik, Salaria's neighbor to the East. He sent a messenger back to Landor, announcing that Salaria was his and left 50 guardsmen to patrol the area.

The rest of Landor's forces headed East into Gobrik.

It was just outside of Gobrik's main castle that Renoit and Melodart had arrived. The fighting had been fiercer than in Solaria and, although none had been killed, there were several wounded – including Bralan, who had taken an enemy arrow in her thigh.

Gorin and Fieth exchanged places with their counterparts and departed for Emertland with their wounded. Six days later, the Gobrik monarch appealed for peace and surrendered. In return for the lives of his family, he provided Jorgarn with further information – including how a poor nation such as Salaria could afford to host a navy and how a poor nation such as Gobrik could amass a 300-man army.

They had a benefactor – and another conspirator.

Vecad, Gobrik's eastern neighbor, had been sending in forces to bolster the Gobrik army. In return, a richer neighbor – Umbria – which was so large it crossed the entirety of the three smaller nations to their north – sent money and food to pay for the troops. Umbria had paid for the Salarian navy. It had sent its troops to train soldiers in Gobrik and Vecad. It had sent money for supplies and to line the pockets of the rulers. Umbria wanted to own Salaria, Gobrik and Vecad, which it did by that point, and eventually seize Emertland and Tark to amass a force large enough to conquer the Empire of Swar to its West and Velotta to its East.

The King of Umbria wanted to rule the entire landmass from the Pernarian Ocean to the Cattalinc Mountains.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



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Chapter 34


The real battle began in Vecad. The Umbrian soldiers were well trained but they were no match for the combined efforts of Emertland, Longview, Domita and Tark. The rangers from Longview could track the army without delay. Tark's archers rained death from a distance. The Domitian Cavalry could force the flanks to cave in a few minutes. And the Emertland Guard battled fiercely from the front.

The healers who volunteered, Alite and Usala, were kept busy during the battle for Gobrik after treating mostly minor injuries for the preceding 15 months. Now they were pressed into performing surgeries on the ground and amputating limbs in a wet tent. Jorgarn's goal was to annex Vecad then allow Landor to sue for peace with Umbria.

Until the last battle in Vecad, he probably would have held to that plan. The Umbrian forces refused to surrender. They murdered the Vecadian Royal Family and held firmly to its castle before trying to sneak back across the border under the cover of darkness.

The Longview Rangers tracked them and the Emertland forces caught up to the Umbrian forces only miles south of their border. When the final battle was over, the field was littered with bodies.

Jorgarn had watched in horror as first Melodart and then Seni fell. The Umbrian soldiers had no honor. They attacked from behind while another engaged from the front. From that point forward, it was wholesale slaughter. Jorgarn and his troops killed the Umbrians to the last man and the Cavalry rounded up any who tried to flee.

The battle ended just before nightfall. A group volunteered to attend to the wounded and dig graves for the fallen. Jorgarn, who had received a nasty gash on his cheek, agreed.

The bodies of most of the mercy party weren't found until the next morning. The seven male members of the mission had been killed, including Traymer Ducotte, who was found holding a digging utensil in his hands. The female members, including Usala and Alite, had been taken.

An enraged Jorgarn sent the rangers after whoever had done this and the rangers found the trail quickly.

The group responsible had crossed from Umbria into Vecad, massacred the men, and dragged the women back into Umbria. No one had to issue orders. With a battle cry of rage, the Emertland forces invaded Umbria to find the perpetrators and to retrieve their comrades.

An advanced force found the first body – Usala – a day later. When Jorgarn saw her, discarded beside the road for scavengers, his blood ran cold. The Umbrian soldiers had defiled her in life and mutilated her after death. They left only the face unmarred so she could be readily identified.

"Let it be known," Jorgarn roared to his assembled troops later than night, "any man, woman or child who takes up arms against Emertland is to be killed. There will be no mercy. We will take no prisoners. Every soldier is to be slaughtered down to the last. Any village that does not surrender immediately will be destroyed. I do not care if there is a single living person in Umbria when this is done! We kill them. We kill every last damned one of them!"

There was a cry of approval. Over the ensuing weeks, the remaining bodies of the missing women were found. Alite's was next and Jorgarn refused to allow Pernice to see her until he could find clothing for her.

Jorgarn cried continually as he dressed the woman who had agreed to be the wife of his best friend. He gently combed out her hair and closed her eyes before covering her with his blanket. Pernice did not see the slashes to her chest. He did not see the bites to her genitals. He did not see that a large stick had been protruding from her rear when she was found. He saw only her unblemished face in slumbering repose when he entered the tent.

But he knew.

Pernice had disagreed with Jorgarn about the slaughter of Umbrian natives. He knew what it was like to be at the mercy of a lord who ruled by fear. By the time Alite was buried in the cold, hard soil of Gobrik – because Pernice refused to allow her to be buried in Umbria – Pernice's opinion had changed.

In the coming months, Jorgarn lived up to his promise. A year after Alite's death found them facing down upon the last Umbrian stronghold: the palace of the King. The Emertland forces had split into three and covered almost the whole country. Each group's advance forced the Umbrians back to the castle, a huge edifice set behind stone walls on a rolling countryside. Much of the country had been left in ruins. Many of its natives were dead or homeless.

Still, Jorgarn's blood boiled when he thought of Usala, Alita, Sania and Cornit. The final body had been found just weeks before, only miles from the palace. Cornit Hanos was a member of the Majestic Guard who was digging a grave when she was captured. She was a robust young woman, full of energy and happy to be a part of something as big as the army. Jorgarn had known her only slightly but those around him mentioned her sense of humor and how she was helpful to anyone who asked.

Those were Jorgarn's thoughts when Lippit approached.

"The rangers found an opening through the walls," he said. "Large enough for a man and hidden by the forest at the back. Reports suggest there are about 200 soldiers inside. They have been repelling commoners who seek refuge. But they have been stockpiling food, it seems. A siege could last months, maybe a year."

Jorgarn nodded and closed his eyes.

"I want this finished," he said. "Get Pernice, Renoit, Belad and 10 others from the rangers. I want them ready at a moment's notice. Have the archers fire arrows over the walls and at the drawbridge. See if we can't burn their food stores. Set fire to anything that will burn – excluding the woods. We will need them for cover. We will force them to come face us in the next week or we will go in and get them."

"The men we have allowed to survive will not want to battle us," Lippit said. "I believe they fear us more than they fear their King."

Jorgarn nodded. Renoit had suggested the plan and it was a good one.

When the armies split, the Emertland forces remained relatively hidden. There were few pitched battles because the main purpose was to strike terror into the citizens and into the soldiers. Landor's troops remained loyal to Jorgarn's pledge – any non-soldier who took up arms was killed where he or she stood. There was no mercy. Villages were given one opportunity to surrender. If they did not, they were burned to the ground and their population scattered. Any who fought back were slain.

But the soldiers had it worse. The Umbrian forces had never had to deal with a group as good at tracking as the rangers. Wherever the enemy hid, the rangers found them. Many nights a frightened soldier awoke with his tent ablaze. He found only carnage when he exited and was allowed to flee in terror, to spread the word.

Other mornings, a soldier would awaken to find his entire unit dead. His commander would often be staked to the ground with a wooden post through his rear passage. He would find the remainder of his group in bedrolls with their throats cut.

Because it had been Alite and Usala who had done much of the grooming for the group, the men looked nothing like they did when the departed Emertland. Their tunics were ripped and stained with blood. Their faces were weathered by the cold temperatures in the higher climes. Their bodies were scarred. Their hair was long and unkempt and their beards unruly. They were a frightening sight even before someone saw their long swords, bows and daggers.

In the year it took him to reach the capital, Jorgarn had poisoned meat, beheaded children, burned villages to the ground with their inhabitants inside and destroyed a dozen years' worth of crops. He made sure he left one survivor at each spot so the word of his coming would cross the lands until it hit the castle. His only rules were no raping and no despoiling the corpses.

"They are terrified but that is more dangerous," Jorgarn replied to Lippit. "They know we do not take prisoners. They will fight to the death. When the commanders come out to seek a truce, we will kill them. Then we will launch their flaming bodies over the wall. I want guards in the woods. No one will escape this time."

Lippit nodded his agreement and went to inform the men.

For the next two nights, flaming arrows lit the air at least 10 times per night. They found purchase in the fields, burning crops. They landed on thatched rooftops, destroying entire rows of houses. Two flew into the castle proper, although Jorgarn did not see what damaged those caused. The air above the Umbrian palace was black with smoke. The heavy bridge leading across the small river that ran in front of the palace had been pelted with so many arrows, it finally fell to ashes the second day.

The night after the bridge crumbled, seven rangers slipped in through the opening in the forest and left the dead bodies of the night guards for the enemy to find. They stacked them together with cord wood, doused them with the special oil the Tark archers carried, and set them ablaze. The rangers escaped through the opened gateway and swam across to safety before anyone spotted them.

Jorgarn wasn't the least bit surprised to see a small unit exit the palace walls the following morning. They carried a flag of truce and waited for him on the opposite side of the river. When Jorgarn didn't move, they started to wade across. Jorgarn lifted his sword high in the air and a ranger stationed in the trees dropped his torch into the water, which immediately caught fire, the slick archer's oil resting on its surface. The men saw the wave of fire approaching them and tried to escape. Those who managed to get out of the water were cut down by the Cavalry who raced along the walls on the castle side of the bank.

Jorgarn prodded forward at sword point a young woman who had surrendered. Although he understood no Umbrian and the young woman understood no Emerti, Belad could converse slightly with the girl in Gobrik, enough to get the point across.

"Tell them there is no surrender and no truce," Jorgarn prompted. "Tell them they gave up that right when they defiled the bodies of my female soldiers and my non-combatants."

The girl looked at him with her mouth agape but didn't speak.

"Tell them!" Jorgarn hissed.

The girl complied with a shudder.

"Tell them that if they come out unarmed, their deaths will be swift," he continued as Belad relayed the information to the girl. "But if they do not come forth by daybreak tomorrow, their deaths will be as long and as painful as I can make them. Their deaths will be longer and crueler than the death of my female soldier, Cornit Hanos, whose body was found not five miles from here. The only people who need to die that way are the Royal Family. All others will be shown mercy if they come forth unarmed."

The girl yelled at the walls but there was no reply. Jorgarn turned to depart with a motion to Belad.

"Release her," he said. "There is no use in putting her in the middle of a battle."

Belad cut the bonds that held the captive and told her to run. But she stood still and said something to him.

"She wants to know if it is true," Belad stated to Jorgarn.

"Tell her whatever you see fit," Jorgarn replied wearily. "I do not care if I am viewed as a monster."

He trudged back to his tent to await the next development.

-------

The next development came just after dusk when a member of the Rangers slapped the side of the tent to announce his arrival before entering.

"The scouts report that seven units slipped out of the castle and headed into the woods just after sunset," he reported. "They appear to be moving through the woods and fording the creek about a mile from here. Then they are moving back toward the castle."

"Are they heading toward our positions?" Jorgarn asked.

"No, just along the woods near the river," the scout said. "I suspect they are trying to make us think they have greater numbers than they do."

Jorgarn nodded and sent for his senior advisers – Pernice, Renoit, still recovering from a back injury suffered weeks before, and Lippit.

"Gentlemen, it appears the time has come for battle," Jorgarn said after he explained what the sentry had relayed. "Suggestions?"

Pernice looked to the other two before speaking.

"Allow them to begin setting up camp, then rain arrows on to them," he said. "Every man with a bow lets loose three flights. We keep up the barrage until daybreak, then attack."

Lippit pondered for a moment.

"With 150 of the men outside the walls, it might be the best time for us to enter," he suggested. "We take the castle and set up the battlefield like this."

He pointed to his hand-drawn map and Jorgarn watched as the pieces fell into place.

"There will be no way out for them," Jorgarn said. "We will be able to press them from all sides. Let's do it. Renoit, you are to remain here in command of the forces. Pernice, Lippit, you're with me. I will hold three torches aloft from the eastern battlement when the castle is secure."

Jorgarn slipped through the darkness and into the woods with his group of 15 men while Renoit hobbled forth to set up the pieces for the final battle of Umbria.

It took some time for Jorgarn's group to make its way silently through the woods and to the back of the castle wall. The hole was barely large enough for a man to enter but all made it through. Jorgarn was shocked to find the area completely desolate. The few Umbrian guards who patrolled the area were lax and they found themselves dead quickly. A slightly longer battle took place at the entrance to the palace but the outcome was the same.

As Jorgarn, Pernice, Lippit and Belad made their way through the castle, the remaining 11 men set about to find and eliminate the two dozen Umbrian soldiers that Jorgarn suspected still remained inside the walls.

The quartet found the King's chambers without much problem and then went next door to rouse the man's twin sons, both aged nine. The boys were terrified at the sight of four armed soldiers in the chamber but arose from their beds at the point of swords and accompanied Jorgarn to their parent's sleeping area.

As Lippit and Belad held the boys quietly, Jorgarn awakened the King and Queen by pouring what appeared to be a thin wax on them. The coldness against their skin had the King and Queen sitting up in moments and their eyes widened when they saw Jorgarn and his group holding their children hostage.

Jorgarn had learned just enough Umbrian for this occasion. With a nod, Belad and Lippit drew sharp daggers across the boys' throats and sent their dying bodies on the bed with their parents.

"For Sania Droth," Lippit said when he tossed the boy he was holding forward.

"For Cornit Hanos," said Belad.

"For Usala Weltin," Jorgarn said loudly as he took a piece of flint and struck it against his lighting rock. He lit the tip of a stick and handed it to Pernice.

"For Alite Vestin, my beloved," Pernice said as he stuck the flaming stick into the substance Jorgarn had poured over the sleeping couple. It erupted in flames immediately and the screams of the King and Queen could be heard throughout the castle.

Jorgarn and his group backed out the chamber quickly as help arrived. There were only one or two armed guards who came running and both were killed quickly. The rest of the staff saw the Emertland intruders and turned to race away from them.

Jorgarn, Pernice, Belad and Lippit exited the castle through the front entrance and saw most of the area between the castle and the boundary in flames. The Rangers who had accompanied him raced forward to announce that they had found 30 men in a barracks and set it afire. Jorgarn and Pernice climbed to the top of the walls and held three torches aloft. In a heartbeat, he saw a row of lights from the hillside and another flight of flaming arrows were sent toward the men encamped below. Renoit lifted his sword and, with a bellow, the Emertland soldiers charged into battle.

The Infantry had the Umbrians outnumbered almost 2-to-1 but the contingent of Rangers raced in from the woodlands to attack the flank and a group of 40 former Velottan mercenaries charged from the other flank.

The Umbrian attempts to flee back toward what they considered safety – the castle – were repelled by the Cavalry units sweeping in horseback on the far side of the river and by Jorgarn's group slaying the few who managed to make it across.

Jorgarn stayed on the battlement to watch. Staying behind was the hardest thing for him to do when his men were in harm's way. But Pernice convinced him.

"The outcome is decided, Sir Jorgarn," Pernice said levelly. "You have strong men leading each division. Let them lead. There is no need to risk you to an accident when we are days from heading home."

Pernice had promised both the Princess and the King that he would try to persuade Jorgarn that it wasn't necessary for him to lead every assault. And until the massacre at Vecad, Jorgarn had listened to his friend – for the most part. The jagged scar on Jorgarn's left cheek attested to the fact he had found himself in the fray more than once. But Jorgarn forced Pernice to stay behind at many battles, to plan the attack with him, to move the pieces of the puzzle into just the right spots.

Part of it was so Jorgarn wouldn't have to watch by himself but the other part was to put Pernice in a position to lead the men should Jorgarn fall. Of course it didn't hurt that Pernice felt as impotent behind the fighting as Jorgarn did.

By the time the sun rose in the eastern sky, the battle was over. Umbria belonged to Emertland.

-------

As Jorgarn and his advisers prepared to restructure the country, a surprise came rolling up to the demolished castle in the form of a carriage with six soldiers. Although few others did, Jorgarn recognized the soldiers' uniforms as being from the Empire of Swar.

A middle-aged man jumped from the carriage with a large smile on his face. He extended his hand to Jorgarn and to every man in the contingent.

"Greetings on behalf of the Emperor of Swar on a well-fought battle," the man said in excellent Emerti. "I am Suddeth Zonti, chancellor for the Empire. May I assume that you are Sir Jorgarn, Knight Protector to the Heiress and the leader of this fine group of soldiers?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"May we discuss business for a moment?" Zonti asked cordially.

Again Jorgarn nodded. He was shocked that someone from the Empire had approached him at all, let alone so quickly.

"As you know, the Emperor's lands border this region on two sides," Zonti said. "I will have you know that the Emperor himself ordered 800 of his soldiers to the border in the past months."

"You are in no danger of attack, Chancellor," Jorgarn said. "I know very little for certain but I know that."

The man smiled.

"We did not anticipate an attack from you, Sir Jorgarn," he said. "We were there to come to your aid if necessary. The Emperor has heard rumors about the dreadful attack in Vecad. He is an honorable man and the Umbrians' actions were deplorable. I believe many of my soldiers are disappointed that they didn't get the chance to help you destroy this forsaken place. In the past weeks, we have taken it upon ourselves to police the refugees from Umbria. We have in our custody 15 families of noble birth from this former country. If you would like, we will return them to you for sentencing."

Jorgarn shrugged.

"I would simply kill them," he said flatly.

The man nodded.

"They crossed into the Emperor's territory before the fall of the Umbria," Zonti said. "It is within my power to try them as spies and take care of that detail for you. Consider it a show of good faith for what I would like to discuss with you next."

Jorgarn considered for a moment but agreed to allow Zonti to try the wayward nobility and pass sentence.

"The Emperor has asked me to offer you the use of his forces to police this area as you see fit," Zonti continued. "That would allow your troops to head back to your home countries and relax instead of trying to rein in this lawlessness. You are under no obligation to accept this. It is simply another offer to show our goodwill toward Emertland and its fine warriors."

Jorgarn noticed the look of excitement that crossed the face of his advisers – save Pernice, who had nothing waiting at home since Alite's death. His men were excited at the prospect of seeing Emertland some nine months earlier than planned. He knew instantly that even if he needed to stay, he would accept the Emperor's offer.

"Thank you, Chancellor," Jorgarn said. "I believe that we will accept that courtesy and I hope you will extend my warmest thanks to the High Emperor. His offer is most generous and most appreciated."

Zonti smiled warmly.

"The Emperor himself led many battles in his youth," he confided. "He knows the rigors of warfare and how friendly the shores of home can look. The Emperor would like for me to travel with you to Emertland to discuss another matter with His Majesty, King Landor, the details of which he instructed me to share with you. As you know, Umbria is a long way from Emertland, perhaps six months during the cold times. The Empire is also far-reaching, as you also know, having grown up in Longview. That, too, is six months from our capital.

"The Emperor would like for King Landor to consider trading lands. You will cede Umbria to us. It is much closer to our capital and it would not be an inconvenience to you. In return, we will cede Domita and Longview to King Landor. Those lands are accessible to you far easier than they are to us. The Emperor believes that King Landor will be a much more able property holder for Longview and Domita and he believes the Empire would be better served having Umbria to look after. Do you believe your King will consider this proposal?"

Jorgarn almost burst out laughing but he stifled it. Still, a smile crept to his face.

"I am uncertain if King Landor even knows this property is now his," Jorgarn said. "We have been on the move so much this past year that we have received no messages. I can say without hesitation that his goal was not to annex land. I believe he would consider ceding Umbria to you without reparation."

"I believe the Emperor would prefer to trade," Zonti said. "But if the King offers it, I will have to wait for word. There is one other thing I would like to discuss with you."

Jorgarn waited.

"The Emperor wishes to offer a 100-year friendship and alliance pact to Emertland," Zonti said casually. Jorgarn shook his head to make sure he heard the man correctly.

"Chancellor, as you know, I was raised in Longview," Jorgarn said. "So I know that the Empire does not form alliances."

"True," Zonti agreed. "However, the reason the Emperor has been reluctant in the past is because it was never a true alliance of equals. He believes that Swar and Emertland can truly work together for the benefit of the other and themselves. We have watched carefully as this situation developed. We know that the initial decision was brought about by the arrogance of Umbria and the ignorance of its puppets. The situation escalated after the despicable actions of the Umbrian soldiers but you responded as any soldier would. You still gave the innocents a chance to surrender. The fact that many were too stupid to listen is not your responsibility. Do you believe your King will be amenable to an alliance with Swar?"

"I believe he will be," Jorgarn said firmly. "I believe Landor will send aid to anyone who asked it. It will open up many trade opportunities between our lands and, as with your Emperor, King Landor will take any opportunity to better life for his people. He will probably see this as an honor above measure. I know that I certainly do."

Zonti beamed and put his hand on Jorgarn's shoulder.

"Well, let us begin later this week integrating my troops and perhaps we can be on our way with a few weeks instead of few months," he said.

-------

As Torbert led the troops to the waterfront to meet the ships, the castle was abuzz with activity, almost all of which came to a halt when Denae stood bolt upright and rushed down the corridor to her father's study.

"He's here!" she said. "I know he is here! On those ships. Father, it's him."

Landor looked up sharply at the interruption. He was doing a vital task and didn't need distractions.

"I know he's here," he said sharply. "Now get back to what you were doing so we can escape out the back."

"Father!" Denae said angrily. "I can feel him. It's Jorgarn. He is on those ships and he is feeling sad. It is strange. It is the first time I could sense him in so long, I didn't recognize it. But I know it is him."

Landor put down the box he was filling and stood up.

"Are you certain?" he asked in wonder. "He's really there? Can you contact him?"

Denae shook her head.

"I tried," she said. "But I'm sure it is him. Father, what will we do?"

"Merg!" Landor shouted. The boy, now 12 and still thin as a bird, seemed to appear instantly.

"Yes, Your Highness," he answered.

"Merg, Denae believes one of those ships contains Sir Jorgarn," he said. "Please run down to the quay and alert Torbert. Perhaps we can bargain for his release."

Merg's face lit in a smile as he turned on his heel and raced from the room.

"Go finish," Landor directed Denae. "Take only the essentials. We do not have much time."

Denae turned to leave but stopped.

"My life is worthless compared to his," she said, looking him in the eye. "I would trade my life for his, if it comes to it, Father.

"No, you won't," Landor replied. "He would never permit that."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 35




Jorgarn watched as Torbert crumpled into the arms of Gorin and without a thought, he leapt from the ship into the cold water. Pernice followed shortly afterward, if for no other reason than he wasn't certain that Jorgarn could swim.

If the water were any deeper, Jorgarn's leather armor and sword would have caused him to drown. But as it was, he was able to bob on the sandy bottom until his head was above the water. Pernice was in the same form.

The pair waded to shore only shortly after Torbert fell. Jorgarn saw no wounds and he could tell Torbert was breathing, so he lifted Torbert into his arms and began a slow run up the hill to the castle. The remaining members of the Guard stood watching with something akin to shock or horror.

Merg had just stepped outside into the sunlight when he saw the figures approaching in the distance. He spun on his heel and went back inside.

"Sire," he said urgently as he burst into the room. "I believe they have killed Torbert and made land. It appears as if the Guard has fallen."

Landor slammed the crate closed. He hoped Denae had sense enough to hide until she could escape but she doubted if she did. Jorgarn raced into the castle and into the King's study just as Merg turned to alert Denae to hide.

"Sire!" Jorgarn said quickly. "Torbert has had what appears to be a shock to his system. Can I have some water for him, please? Merg, go fetch a healer. Thank you."

Merg's mouth dropped. He couldn't stop himself from putting his arm around Jorgarn before racing forward.

"I knew it!" he said happily. "I told them. We all told them."

"Merg!" Jorgarn said. The boy's face was still set in a smile as he ran out a side door and down the corridor.

Denae had only seen the back of a large, lumbering man enter her father's study. The man carried her uncle as if Torbert were a child. She burst into the room to see her father standing, his hand shaking, holding a cup of water outward and the long-haired, smelly man leaning beside her uncle. She unsheathed her short sword and put it hard against the man's neck.

"Get away from my family, you barbarian!" she hissed. "Or I will kill you on that very spot."

Jorgarn slowly raised his hands – which had been loosening the armor around Torbert's neck and stood to his full height, before slowly turning around. He could sense that she was angry and nervous, never a good combination when someone has a weapon at your back.

"I surrender, Denae," Jorgarn said with a slight smile. He was confused and he didn't like confusion.

Denae's sword clattered to the floor and she took an involuntary step backward.

"Creator!" she said. "I, I..."

"We thought you were dead until moments ago," Landor supplied.

Merg burst through the door a moment later with the old medic and Jorgarn's heart fell. He pictured Usala's crumpled body alongside the road and rage and pain coursed through him.

"I am not dead!" he said plainly. "I sent you a message four months ago that you should expect us to arrive. I've sent three messengers in the past year or so and none of them has returned."

Torbert stirred on the settee and the medic helped him sit up.

"It appears if he has simply had a fright," she said as she looked at Jorgarn and Pernice, who had joined the group. "If the way you two look didn't cause it, then it might have been the smell. He'll be fine in a few minutes."

With another withering glance at Jorgarn, she turned to leave the room. Jorgarn and Pernice each felt tears well in their eyes. The loss of Alite and Usala had been felt for months. Men wounded in battle often died without a medic to treat them. But it was never brought home more than by the brusque nature of the old crone left behind. Usala and Alite were both vibrant, friendly women who treated everyone they met with respect and courtesy.

"Wait," Jorgarn said firmly. "The following few minutes will concern you, too. So take a seat and keep your damned mouth shut. If I hear you utter so much as a curse, I will slit your throat and let you bleed out on the rug."

Pernice put his hand on Jorgarn's shoulder but Jorgarn shrugged it off.

"I have had enough of this crone's behavior," he said angrily. "I have watched men and women die for the past 18 months because no one here saw fit to provide us replacements. I want answers and I will have them."

The entire room was silent. The old medic's face turned whiter and she sat silently beside Denae. Jorgarn turned to Torbert.

"I'm sorry I startled you," he said sincerely. "I believed you were aware of our imminent arrival."

"I, I heard you all had been killed," he said with a smile that Jorgarn knew would leave in moments. "I was just so happy to hear your voice, to see you all returning."

Jorgarn placed a hand on Torbert' shoulder and squeezed gently as he knelt before him.

"Torbert, I regret to inform you that all of us have not returned," Jorgarn said solemnly. "Usala was among the fallen. I'm sorry."

The smile vanished from Torbert's face and everyone in the room gasped.

Jorgarn stood and turned to the medic.

"I also regret to inform you, Madame Trinil, that your assistant Alite Vestin died the same day as Usala Weltin. They were ambushed on a humanitarian mission to treat the wounded and bury the dead. Eleven other members of our army died that evening, as well, including Traymer Ducotte, who most of you know was a part of my staff."

Jorgarn paused for a moment.

"My last message to you included the disposition of the battle, our list of fallen soldiers and the information about our return, Sire," Jorgarn said to Landor. "If you will allow me, I would like to present my report to you now."

Landor nodded solemnly and glanced at Torbert who was sitting ashen faced.

"The lands of Salaria, Gobrik, Vecad and Umbria are now under your control, King Landor," Jorgarn said. "But the cost was heavy. Almost 200 of our ranks did not return to our shores, including many who were close to the Royal Family. In addition to those I've named, Masters Seni and Melodart are among the dead. Both were killed from behind, just as our people who died while giving comfort were killed with nothing more than a shovel in their hands."

Torbert let out a long breath.

Landor lowered his eyes and Jorgarn was sure he could hear Denae sobbing quietly behind him.

"I return to you 206 brave members of your Guard," Jorgarn said. "Almost 120 of them perished in battle or by treachery. Seventy former residents of Longview left their homeland to aid in our battle. Forty-eight of them still live. I also bring with us 28 men with no home or country. They are former soldiers hired by Velotta who have no place to return to. These men come to our shores as I once did, seeking nothing but an opportunity and a home. I ask that you grant these men this, as you once did me."

Landor sighed deeply and nodded his agreement.

"The Land of Tark, our eastern neighbor sent 150 archers to assist us and provided 100 more bows for your troops," Jorgarn continued. "I ask that these men be provided sustenance and passage back to their homes."

Again, Landor nodded his head.

"Lastly, I have brought with us a representative from the Empire of Swar who wishes to discuss the possible disposition of the land formerly known as Umbria," Jorgarn said. "Now, I would like to know why I have received no messages in 18 months and everyone thinks we had perished."

Landor sat silently for a moment to compose his thoughts.

"The last message we had from you was that Gobrik had fallen and that you had found information linking Vecad to the attacks," the King replied. "We heard nothing from you since and no messengers have arrived. Additionally, there are many rumors about the great loss of life in Umbria."

Denae snorted.

"Jorgarn, we heard tales of a barbarian warlord rampaging across the upper landmass," she said pleadingly. "When we heard nothing from you for so long – and when no one in Salaria, Gobrik or Vecad knew where you had gone, we assumed the worst, that you had run into Yerk the Destroyer and had been lost."

"Six months ago, Denae and I traveled to what was once Salaria," Landor cut in. "There were refugees from Umbria who spoke of mass killings, villages burned to the ground. It was then we learned that you had gone into Umbria, although we still don't know why."

"We pursued Usala and Alite's assailants," Pernice answered. "Our trackers found that they had sneaked across the border, attacked our group and then fled back across. We planned to attack Umbria anyway because they were the brains behind everything. But we planned to wait for reinforcements before battle. The attacks on our unarmed party made that impossible."

The look in Landor's eye told Jorgarn he knew there was more to the story but it was best to leave it unsaid.

"So you didn't encounter the warlord?" Denae asked.

Jorgarn chuckled grimly.

"After the cowardly attack on our party, I ordered every soldier from Umbria we encountered to be killed on the spot," Jorgarn said tonelessly. "Every village was offered one chance to surrender then it was burned whether the populace departed or not. I laid waste to that entire country for what they did. So, no, I did not encounter the warlord.

"I am the warlord."

Denae's mouth dropped and she simply stared at Jorgarn. It probably would have continued for longer but a face popped into the door – a person Jorgarn did not recognize.

"Denae, thank Creation you're alright," the man said. "Are we still evacuating?"

Denae glanced at the man for a moment then back at Jorgarn.

"No, it was not an attack," she said. "It was our soldiers returning from battle. The information we received was in error. They have returned, most of them anyway."

The man started to enter the room.

"Frayon, please wait outside," Denae said. "This is a discussion for the family."

The man's face reddened.

"Family?" he asked. "I am your family. I am to be your husband in a week."

Denae shuddered and looked at Jorgarn.

"I thought you had died," she said softly before turning to the other man. "I'm sorry, Frayon, I must honor my prior betrothal to Lord Tremaine. Our marriage will not happen."

The man's eyes narrowed angrily.

"And what of my child?" he asked bitterly. "Is the child you carry still to become the Monarch?"

"What!" Landor boomed. "Denae, what is this nonsense? Frayon, I will have you executed for slandering the Heiress."

Jorgarn looked for a moment at Denae before turning to face the King.

"It is not slander," he said simply. "I suspect it is the truth. Now, Sire, may I be excused? I wish to bathe and see to my men."

Landor's face was infused with such anger than Jorgarn worried for the King's health.

"Yes, Sir Jorgarn," he said softly. "Master Fieth has refused to accept the Knighthood. There are many in the castle who did not lose their faith in you. Your chamber is still as it was on the day you left. Mistress Leyota has ensured that."

Jorgarn nodded and departed, Pernice at his side, without looking at either the Princess or her soon-to-be husband.

-------

"What will you do?" Pernice asked as they ascended the stairs.

"Well, I know what I won't do," Jorgarn answered angrily.

The final few months before his departure had been good. Denae seemed to turn back into the girl he thought she was. Even Torbert had noticed and brought it to Jorgarn's attention. She was upset that their marriage had to be postponed but she accepted even that news with grace.

Jorgarn once again found himself laughing beside Denae and they spent many evenings discussing their future together. He still didn't allow her back into his bed but she seemed to accept that, too. There were no rumors of indiscretion, nor did Jorgarn suspect any. It seemed as though Denae had realized there were limits to what she could do and she had decided to accept them.

Their relationship returned to the way it was at the beginning – before the manipulation and deception took root. Jorgarn would sometimes catch Denae simply looking at him with a somewhat silly smile and a dream-like expression on her face.

Given what he knew, it was no surprise that she thought him dead. But it appeared that she didn't mourn him for long. Landor said they only returned from Salaria a half year ago and she was already planning to wed someone else – someone she had given the one thing that Jorgarn had insisted she keep until their marriage bed.

He sat heavily on his bed. Pernice, seeing his friend's discomfort started to leave.

"Stay, my friend," Jorgarn said. "We spent many nights, you and I, talking about the future. Now we can truly take time to mourn the loss of it together."

Pernice sat but looked dazed.

"I simply can't believe she would do that," Pernice said. "Even if she didn't find herself with child, you would have found out. You would have known. She couldn't possibly have expected you to ignore such a thing."

"If I were dead, it would make no difference," Jorgarn answered. "I knew she was eager to move to that step. The fact that I refused any sort of intimacy for the year before we left didn't help things. But still, I will find it difficult to offer sound advice to someone I believe I despise."

There was a loud knock at the door and it swung open. Leyota, Drosset and Merg came rushing in.

"See, I told you!" Merg said with a smile. The smile left when he saw the look on Jorgarn's face.

"You know," Leyota said sadly. "I hoped to find a way to tell you privately. She believed you had been lost in battle. Some of us – most of us – had more faith in you than that."

Fieth and Renoit entered the chamber with wide smiles that quickly turned into frowns. Still, Chicote offered a warm embrace to his youngest sister, who wrinkled her nose and laughed at the smell.

Three years away had produced a host of changes in his young staff. Leyota was now 15 and had blossomed into a lovely woman. She was a prettier version of her sister, who was pretty in her own right. Merg was still tall and thin with shaggy blonde hair that appeared he was unable to tame. Drosset, at 13, looked slightly like Cruit but he had the softer features of his sister.

"Where is Stenweed?" Jorgarn asked.

Leyota looked at the floor but Merg and Drosset's face became angry.

"He was let go," Merg said.

"By whom?" Jorgarn asked even though he knew the answer.

"By Her Royal Highness," Leyota said with disdain.

"On what account?" Jorgarn inquired.

"On no account," Leyota said. "She started to make fun of him a few months after you left. Then she told him his services were not needed at the castle until you returned. I heard her say that she would not have a 'peter breath' lusting after her husband. She is a fine one to talk about having the smell of seed on your breath!"

"Leyota!" Chicote chided.

"What?" she said. "I'm sorry, Jorgarn. Do you think that Frayon Troch is the first one? Hardly. Your ship probably wasn't out of the harbor before she was trying to find someone to dally with. I know she was caught by Stenweed once and I believe that precipitated his dismissal. Merg, do you wish to tell him about what you have seen?"

"It is not necessary," Jorgarn said. "Now that she is carrying someone else's child, I need no more detail than that."

"She's what!" Leyota said loudly. "You are joking. You are not joking. I didn't think even she was that stupid. Well, at least you won't marry her now."

"No," Jorgarn said and Leyota heard a trace of sadness in his voice. "Nothing is the way I thought it would be when I returned. You three have grown up. When I hired you, I planned to watch you grow. I planned to be there to help you like Eslada was for me. But look at you. I am so proud of all of you. I only wish I could claim that I contributed to your maturity. And I wish I had more time to spend with you before you go on to the rest of your lives. Leyota, you will be married soon, I'm certain. Drosset and Merg, you'll be taking your spots among the trainees in a year or so."

He glanced at Pernice. He knew the man only had returned because he had no place else to go. Jorgarn understood his feeling.

"Perhaps we should see if the Emperor has room for two warriors, my friend," he said. "I believe Fieth and Renoit can handle the duties here."

"Absolutely not!" Fieth said. "I would have waited for a while but since you said that, I won't. I relinquish my role as your Second. I will abide by that woman no longer."

"Nor will I," Renoit said. "In fact, where you go, I go. I believe Fieth feels the same. Actually, I would wager than if you were to accept an offer from the Emperor, you would find about 200 others leaving with you."

"And three staff members," Leyota said firmly. "I am now Merg's guardian."

"Two," Drosset replied sadly. "I do not believe Eslada would permit me to travel that far away. She has been urging me to return to Longview Manor for quite some time. But I would want to go with you and I would join you when I turn 15."

Jorgarn looked around the room at the expectant faces.

"Well, let us grab the emissary before he speaks to Landor," he said.

-------

The chancellor was taken aback by Jorgarn's request but he understood the rationale once it was explained.

"The Emperor will be in Longview later this week," he said. "He decided to come down to finalize things himself. I will send word and we can discuss this at a later date. As for now, please keep the range of our other discussion close to you. We will still offer to trade lands. But I do not think an alliance would benefit Swar without your presence here. I believe that your young followers spoke truly. Emertland will have no army if you leave."

The man's eyes brightened.

"If you are amenable, I will make a suggestion to the Emperor," he continued in almost a giddy voice. "Perhaps you and your followers would like to carve your own country out of land that once belonged to Umbria."

Pernice's eyes lit up.

"Our own country?" he asked. He glanced at Jorgarn. "Could we do that? I mean, do you think we could actually rule ourselves?"

"We have for three years," Jorgarn said. "So, yes, Chancellor. If the Emperor finds that agreeable, we certainly do. We could probably take a small section and make it work."

"And you could be King!" Leyota said happily.

Jorgarn shook his head quickly.

"I will not be King or Knight or anything," he said. "I believe it should be run as we ran our units. A council makes all non-military decisions. What do you think, Chicote?"

He nodded.

"And no nobility or titles," he said. "Everyone is the same. Just like in Jorgarn's Army. We have mingled together for so long, I feel closer to Pernice than I do my family – no offense Leyota. Actually, I consider Pernice my family."

The Chancellor was nodding.

"Could someone alert King Landor that I've been summoned to Longview?" he asked. "I will send a message back as to when we can meet. Now I suppose I must board another stinking ship. How long will it take me to sail there?"

"Less than a day," Jorgarn said and the man appeared greatly pleased.

It was three days later when a message arrived for Jorgarn. He immediately went to see Landor, his excitement about the plan having grown when he saw the enthusiasm on the faces around him.

"Sire," he said with a bow as he entered. Landor looked up and smiled sadly. He knew Jorgarn was planning to leave. "I wish to inform you of the arrival of the Emperor of Swar on the next vessel from Longview."

Landor nodded, having received a similar message.

"Am I to understand that you will leave with him?" Landor asked. Jorgarn felt his eyes burn. He truly cared for Landor and Emertland – even for Denae.

"I believe so, Sire," Jorgarn answered. "I fear that I will take a great many of your soldiers with me, however."

"I was made aware of that prospect by Torbert," Landor replied. "Many of the Guard have tendered their resignations already – and several of my household staff, as well."

He chuckled ruefully.

"I fear Torbert would join you if he wasn't my brother," Landor managed to joke. "Actually, I probably would if I weren't the King. Where will you go? Do you plan to live in the Empire?"

Jorgarn took a deep breath.

"We will form our own country," Jorgarn replied as he pulled out the map that came with his message. "It will depend upon you where it is. If you agree to assume control of Longview and Domita, it will be just outside of Emertland, a small holding in the land that was formerly Umbria. If you choose to keep Umbria, it will be a territory separating Longview from Domita. Because of who will likely make up the country, I wanted it to be close by in case you need us. Either way, we can arrive here within three days by ship if necessary."

Landor found himself touched by Jorgarn's thoughtfulness. He wasn't certain given the circumstances, if he would have acted the same.

"I do not foresee any issue with exchanging territory," Landor said. "But even if the Emperor has changed his mind, I will cede you the land."

"Thank you, Sire," Jorgarn said with a slight bow. He wanted to tell Landor how upset he was that things turned out this way. He wanted the King to understand how much Jorgarn appreciated everything Landor had offered him. But he had no words to express his feelings.

"I'm sorry," he settled for instead.

"As am I," Landor replied wearily. "I understand as well as anyone why you would consider leaving. Just as I understand the temptations of youth that Denae is experiencing. I was much older before I wed, as you know. That allowed me to make my mistakes early and learn from them."

"I don't believe your daughter has learned from any mistakes she has made, Sir," Jorgarn interrupted.

"No, I don't believe she has," Landor admitted. "The conflict took so long to resolve. I do know that she appeared heartbroken when we left Salaria. And I know she was excited when she sensed you nearby. She told me she would trade her life for yours – because she believed you captured. I could see she meant it. I know the revelation has been difficult for her. I don't know why she expected you to disregard her indiscretions but I can see that she did. Perhaps because you did so before."

"But I believe I made it clear that I would not do so again," Jorgarn interrupted. "Even if she weren't carrying a child, I would have rescinded the betrothal. What I have learned over the past days about your daughter's character makes me fear greatly for Emertland's future. It is obvious she holds no respect for me, so I doubt I would be able to affect change in a positive manner, even if I stay. But I will always hold you and Emertland close to my heart and I will always come to its aid if I'm able."

"I know you will," Landor said. "So when do I start to refer to you as King Jorgarn? It has a nice ring to it."

Jorgarn laughed aloud.

"Never, Sire," Jorgarn said. "The Republic of Freeland will not be a monarchy. It will be governed as we governed the army for the past years during battle. After we left Salaria, the ranks were restructured without regard to nationality or class. If we found a group of people whose skills complimented the others, they were assigned together. It didn't matter if they hailed from Emertland or Domita, if they were noble or commoner. The Council of Seven decided all non-military matters, mostly because the Council of Nine – Pernice, Fieth and Gorin, at the time, Lippit, Belad, Seni, Alite, Bralan and then Usala and me – didn't have the inclination to deal with those things. But it worked well. Like the army, the Council of Seven was elected by their peers. They are meeting as we speak to decide if we need a military council or not."

"Then I should allow you to leave," Landor said sadly.

"Even if I go, I hold no place on the council," Jorgarn said. "Nor will I serve if they elect a military council. The only person elected to the Council that I am certain you know is Leyota. My decisions during this war cost me everything I held dear – your family, your daughter and this country. A man I respect greatly lost his heir. My dearest friend lost his future wife. I convinced him to carry forward, that he still had a life here to live. Bralan raced her horse forward so she could take an arrow that was coming for my neck. The wound was so grave; Alite was barely able to save the leg.

"No, I think I will farm, perhaps make those bows that the Tarks use. I might consent to train some of our militia but we have so many veteran soldiers going with us, I doubt I will be needed. What I want more than anything else is to have peace. To have time to reflect upon the past five years, to allow myself to forgive your daughter so someday I may think of a place I love and a person I loved without bitterness.

"Your daughter understood why I was gone. She understood that I left so that you and she might live in peaceful times. Instead of acknowledging that I had to go, she looked to it as an opportunity to do the things she felt I denied her. If we had married three years ago, she would not have changed. Eventually she would wish to return to the ways she found so appealing. I truly believe your daughter thinks she is above consideration for others."

Landor promised that he would always consider the Republic of Freeland an ally and Jorgarn set off to begin packing his meager belongings.

-------

It was almost a week later before the deal was signed. The Emperor awarded the land holding with no compensation but instead as a gesture of goodwill toward Emertland and its departing soldiers.

Jorgarn and Pernice were selected to join the Council of Seven on the initial foray into Freeland but the Council relented and soon the entire group – more than 300 – was preparing to depart. Jorgarn and Denae had avoided each other completely since his return. He had decided not to cut his hair and had elected to keep it long as he wore it when he arrived in Emertland. He did succumb to Leyota's pleading and trimmed his reddish-brown beard back to a respectable level.

He shouldered his pack and took another look at the chamber that held many fond memories for him. Denae was waiting when he turned around.

"So, you plan to slink off without even speaking to me?" she asked angrily.

"I didn't realize we had anything further to say," Jorgarn replied. "I have returned the Tremaine lands to the crown and discussed my decision with Sir Torbert. There was no reason for me to speak to you."

"And now you plan to depart and leave Emertland defenseless," Denae said. "It will take 50 years before the Guard is back to strength."

"I asked only Pernice to accompany me," he told her. "Everyone else made their decision on their own and many of them decided when they learned of your actions, not mine."

"I didn't mean for it to happen!" Denae insisted.

Jorgarn chuckled and shook his head. His temper was starting to rise.

"So, you accidentally found yourself on your knees in the cloakroom and before you knew it a member was between your lips?" he asked derisively. "You meant for it to happen. What you didn't mean is for me to find out about it. Denae, you should at least admit you're culpable. You won't be able to deny it for long. You forced me to break a promise I made to your father. I promised him you would go to your marriage bed pure. You gave away to a dolt something that I had tried my hardest to allow you to keep."

She looked to the floor.

"I wanted to give it away to you!" she insisted. "It should have been you who claimed me. Jorgarn, I drank too much wine. I woke up with Frayon in my bed and blood on my sheets. I don't even remember it. Two weeks later, my egg time didn't come. It didn't come last month either."

"So you have completed the act with him only once then?" Jorgarn asked with a smirk. "Only the time you don't remember?"

Denae closed her eyes and considered lying to him. But she knew he would recognize it for what it was.

"After I missed my egg time, it didn't matter," she said.

"It mattered to me," Jorgarn pointed out. "It mattered to your father. I heard Lorida went back to her own country rather than watch you act that way. But forget about Frayon. What of the others? I told you previously that the people here like me much more than they like you. The fact that many of them are leaving with me should reiterate that fact for you. I know as soon as I was gone, you returned to your previous behavior. You are a selfish, spoiled child with no regard for the feelings of others."

Jorgarn's face had reddened as his anger mounted. Now his voice rose, as well.

"So, yes, Denae, I have no need to speak to you about personal decisions," he said loudly. "I saw no need to point out to you that I was departing. As your Knight, I would be expected to give my life for yours. I must value your life more than my own. Quite frankly, it is all I can do to keep from killing you where you stand. Do you really think I would be willing to die for a faithless whore?"

The door to Denae's chamber flew open and Frayon rushed out.

"I demand you apologize to my bride-to-be!" he insisted, his face red.

"To Blazes with you both!" Jorgarn yelled as he lifted the man from his feet and flung him across the room. "Perhaps you would like to act as her Champion and seek Reprisal from me? Or maybe we should settle this with a duel. Do not ever speak to me again or those words will be your last. It is only by my grace that you have lived to see each day and I would recommend you understand that. Your bastard child may one day be a monarch, but you are expendable in my eyes."

Denae did not move to help Frayon to his feet. Instead she hung her head and cried.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 36


Jorgarn was among the few people remaining on the dock. Pernice, Fieth, Renoit, Leyota and Merg stood with him, watching as the others boarded without a backward glance.

He looked toward his friends – the people he considered his family.

"You know that I will return here in a few weeks?" he asked.

The group nodded. Jorgarn had made a commitment to Emertland and there was no way he would go back on that.

"I still wish to be a resident of Freeland," he said. "Should it become possible, I will live out the rest of my days there. But I have too much respect for Torbert to turn away from him and to force him to bear this alone."

"We understand," Leyota said. She knew the group wanted Jorgarn with them but they also appreciated the part of his nature that forced him to stay behind.

Still, they were relieved when he boarded the ship to set sail.

Leyota allowed Jorgarn to pace the ship for the first few hours of their journey to their new home. But finally she grabbed his arm and spun him around. Jorgarn smiled when he thought that she was deceptively strong for someone her size.

"Do not allow that hateful witch to cause strife on our new start," she said. Jorgarn noticed Leyota's eyes were dangerously narrow and her face set in a look of agitation. "I will not have you moping and pouting like you're seven years old. The people will look to you. They will emulate you. I expect you to do your part or, by Creation, you will answer to me personally."

It had been years since Jorgarn had heard Leyota raise her voice and she had never spoken to him that way. He took a step back and wondered if Eslada had been giving lessons.

"I understand and I will do my best," Jorgarn promised. "I am afraid I was confronted before I left the castle. It was a mistake for me to continue staying there."

"It was not a mistake," Leyota insisted, although her face had softened. "It was necessary. That awful woman loves you but is too selfish to understand what it means. I wish it were possible for you to be happy continuing as her Knight. It would be poetic justice to watch you marry someone you love while she is stuck with that fop Frayon. I wouldn't be surprised if he liked to join Denae on his knees in the cloakroom from time to time."

Leyota blushed at her words but Jorgarn's face hardened.

"I never want to hear you make a disparaging remark like that again," he said in a hiss. "Stenweed is with us as are several others of his persuasion. You are a Councilor now. Act like it."

"You're right," Leyota said with a sigh. "I'm sorry. I like Stenweed and I care little who he beds. I made that remark solely as a means of showing my lack of respect for the future Prince, not to disparage anyone else. I will watch my speech from now on."

Jorgarn relaxed some.

"Only when we're in public, Leyota," he said softly. "In private, you can share your thoughts with me without censure. But you are the youngest Councilor and you won your seat by the narrowest of margins. You must remember that."

"I must remember that I won only because you and Pernice voiced your support for me, you mean," Leyota replied with a trace of anger.

"Well, if you remember that then remember this," Jorgarn pointed out. "We voiced our support for you because we believe you can do the job and we believe you were the best person for the post. If you weren't, I wouldn't have supported you publicly. I hold you dear, Leyota. Do not for a moment think that I do not. But what we are about to do has never been tried before. I supported your candidacy because of the skill you possess and the person that you are. It was not because I expect you to seek my opinion on all matters and vote as I want you to. In fact, I would be happy if we never spoke of Council matters again."

"Well, I won't be compiling your schedule or shepherding your staff any longer," Leyota answered. "So I'm not sure what exactly we would speak about."

Jorgarn was somewhat taken aback.

"Leyota, we spoke of other things," he said.

"Did we?" she asked. "I recall us discussing your job or how I did my job. I do not recall us speaking of anything else except for your dissatisfaction with whom you chose to marry."

"Did you want to speak of other things?" Jorgarn asked.

"Well, no," Leyota admitted. "Not really. Maybe sometimes but I was usually too embarrassed to speak to you about it. Instead I would talk to Lorida. It was a shame when she got so angry with Denae that she left for her homeland. I know Landor missed her company. So did I, especially with you gone."

"Well, I am here now, at least for a while," Jorgarn said as he put his arm around his friend. "And I have lived among females for three years now. I doubt anything you speak of will embarrass me. Although, the man you plan to marry will have to outwrestle me. I cannot allow you to marry any man who cannot whip me."

Leyota snorted.

"So Bralan and I will be spinsters together," she said with a laugh.

"No," Jorgarn said. "You know that if you love someone I will accept them."

"I didn't," Leyota pointed out. "I never forgave Denae for what she did to Bralan. I certainly will never forgive her for what she did to you. I have decided I hope Landor lives for many more decades. Perhaps in time, Denae will understand."

"Let us speak no more of her," Jorgarn said. "I finally got you to smile. Have I ever mentioned how happy it makes me to see you smile? I don't think I have ever met someone with so pretty a smile as you own. So, tell me, do you have your sights on any young men?"

"Do you have your sights on any young women?" Leyota responded.

"I believe that I will become a spinster, too," Jorgarn said. "Perhaps we should plan for you and Bralan and me and Pernice to make socks together in our old age."

Leyota laughed aloud.

"Make socks in our old age?" she asked. "Why don't we simply wed one another when the time comes? Would that not make more sense?"

"So, you fancy Pernice?" Jorgarn asked with a wink.

"Perhaps once we get Freeland settled you and I can discuss finding a mate for me and you," Leyota said, grinning and shaking her head. "Although I am sure my mother will be disappointed she won't get the chance. She began discussing eligible young men with me at Court two years ago. I barely had any lower hair at the time and she was offering instruction on how to get a man to notice me."

"All you would have had to do is to smile once in his direction to get him to notice you," Jorgarn said warmly. "Then have one conversation with him to get him to respect you. You will make some lucky man a formidable partner one day."

Leyota put her hand on Jorgarn's arm and smiled at him.

"Thank you," she said with a blush. "I hope your words prove prophetic."

"You know," Jorgarn said, changing the subject, "I am amazed that your parents treat me so well. After all, I have taken their finest children for my own and left them only the dregs. How is Riset?"

Leyota rolled her eyes dramatically.

"Oh, she will be in fine spirits once word reaches of her of the goings on in the capital," she answered. "That will last for a month or so but then she will be back to her usual miserable, obstinate self. There is a rumor that Saneth Fieth will join us for a couple of years. Have you heard that?"

Jorgarn shrugged.

"It is possible," Jorgarn said. "But I hope it is made clear that nobility ends at the border. I hope we never get involved in classes and stations. I truly came to enjoy equality in the army."

"It was your army," Leyota said with a wry smile. "I doubt there were any equal to you. Will it be hard for you to adjust to a situation where your word is not law?"

Jorgarn considered the question.

"I hope not," he said. "But if it turns out to be, I will always have you to make me submit."

Leyota crossed her arms and for the first time, Jorgarn noticed how bountiful her breasts had become. Thankfully, Leyota was looking out to sea and didn't notice his lingering glance.

"Yes, I will make you submit," she said. "You forget something. Of all the people in Freeland I will be the only one who knows that you are ticklish."

She stuck her tongue out at him and walked away to visit with others she saw on board.

-------

As the caravan made its way across the border that formerly would have led from Salaria to Umbria, the Emperor raised a hand for it to stop. He drew from his carriage a large wooden sign and two long poles with tapered ends.

"Republic of Freeland," the sign read. Two of the Emperor's men pounded the signposts into the ground and then the sign was erected. It took almost five days for the group to wend its way across the area that would be known as Freeland but it took Jorgarn only a few moments to realize why the Emperor and King Landor had agreed on this particular location.

The homes and villages were almost entirely intact. There were a few, here and there, that had been destroyed. But most of the people had fled before Renoit and his third of the army had arrived almost two years earlier. There were even some fields and some fruit trees that bore their bounty. Because food proposed to be one of the larger issues the group faced, the Council left several people behind to tend to the farms.

The manor house of a former Umbrian noble sat in the middle of the territory and the Council elected to use it as their headquarters and the capital city of Freeland. Lippit provided several people to map the areas they crossed and by the time the grand tour ended, the Freelanders had a fairly accurate rendering of their new homeland.

It was only a half-day's ride across it in either direction and only a day's ride from the capital to the Emertland port on the northern tip of the Tilico Sea. Landor had graciously allowed free passage across Emertland for all citizens of Freeland, but Jorgarn doubted that would be the case once Denae took the throne.

A lottery of sorts determined who lived where. Each person or family drew a numbered lot and Lippit produced a rendering with approximate locations of intact dwellings and other lands he appropriated from the manor house, now the Capital Building. Members of the Council would live in the Capital if they chose, along with others whose primary vocation was domestic work. It was determined – at the outset, at least – that anyone who lived in Freeland was expected to work and expected to provide a portion of his or her efforts toward the common good.

A blacksmith would be expected to manufacture small brads for building; a man who was good with an ax would be expected to assist in providing lumber for those who were not. In return, those in charge of farming would make sure food was provided to the other's families. Jorgarn knew in the long run a different economy would be needed. But it would work for the first year or so, at least until everyone had a dwelling.

Jorgarn sat quietly and waited until almost everyone had selected his or her lot before standing to select his number. By the time he reached the young man who was holding the bag, there was only one number remaining: 113. He wasn't concerned about where he lived or even his occupation really. Like most, he would try to grow and hunt his own food and provide what he could to those with little skill in hunting. And he would be in Emertland for the foreseeable future, a thought that made him angry.

When the group assembled to choose their housing, the young woman who had drawn the first lot stood.

"I pass until Jorgarn Elmwood has chosen his dwelling," she said and sat back down. The next man stood and, after a moment's thought, said the same thing. Jorgarn started to rise to tell them to pick where they wanted to live but Leyota and Pernice each put a hand on his shoulder.

"Let them do this for you," Pernice said.

"You have accepted nothing and this is your doing," Leyota continued. "You have given more than anyone and accepted the least. They want to do this for you."

When it reached 113, there still were no dwellings chosen. Jorgarn stood to approach the map and turned to smile at everyone in the field.

"I should be contrary and pass," he said. "But I thank you for your generosity. It matters little where I live because I know I will be around strong friends wherever it may be. I select this house here."

He pointed to a small isolated cottage near the woods just a few minutes' walk from the Capital.

"You should get something larger than that!" a voice said. "What about that manor close to the border?"

Jorgarn laughed.

"I need no manor," he said. "This cottage is perfect for me. It has a stand of trees where I can gather wood to make bows. It has a flat piece of ground where I can grow food. It is perfect. Thank you all again. I truly appreciate your generosity."

Leyota put her arm around his waist when he sat back down.

"That still would have been there when you selected anyway," she said with a laugh. But she wasn't surprised when people took a few moments to analyze their selections before announcing them. The smaller houses with farmland went quicker than the larger estates. When the estates did go, they were selected by a group of people who wanted to live together rather than one family who wanted to own a great deal of land.

When it reached Pernice, he pondered for a moment.

"I would like to select a piece of unclaimed land that has no dwelling," he said thoughtfully. "Will that create a problem?"

No one seemed to have an issue with it so he pointed to a piece of wooded land across the road from Jorgarn's.

"I have slept in a tent for almost four years," he said. "I can sleep on the ground for a few months until I get a house built."

Leyota selected a property right next to Jorgarn's, also with no dwelling.

"I will live in the Capital for two years," she told him. "I'm sure I can convince you to put together something for me. Incidentally, I would like to discuss Merg with you."

"What about him?" Jorgarn asked.

"Well, I want him to live with Pernice," Leyota said. "He is at an age where he needs a strong male around. I don't want you to feel slighted. I want him to learn how to farm. I want him to learn to be as much like you and Pernice as he can. I wasn't going to ask if he planned to live a day's ride away from the Capital. But with him so close, I think it would be best."

Jorgarn offered a small smile.

"Well, learning farming from Pernice might not be the best idea," Jorgarn said. "Pernice might have to learn from him. But he has always enjoyed his company. I think he will agree. Likewise, I would agree if he wishes to return with me. I will leave those decisions to you and him."

Leyota beamed.

"I also want Pernice to continue his military training," she added. "I plan to make a motion for compulsory military service for every man and woman. I think a two-year commitment will help us grow and keep us safe."

"Good plan," Jorgarn said. "Many are already veterans so it shouldn't be too difficult to set it up. Let me know what I can do to help – short of leading it, that is."

"No, that will not be possible from such a great distance," Leyota said. "But others will come to you when you return. I don't believe Pernice, Renoit or Fieth wish to do it either. But Jorgarn, we will need someone to lead us. We will need someone who understands what needs to be done. You also will not be exempt from the two-year commitment. It would be unfair and I think you would not expect it. I think your two years would be best spent training the future leaders. We already have a hierarchy in place. You are at the top of it. Surely you understand that."

"I suppose I do," he replied after thinking for a few moments. "How about if I agree to return and serve as commander for a half year and as a trainer for another year and a half year once you get established? Do you think that would appease everyone? That will give us a year to get the ranks organized and to train someone to take command. Then I could use the second year to offer instruction to those who need it. But there are some who will wish to remain in the militia for more than two years. Are you prepared to have career soldiers?"

"I have a plan for that," Leyota said. "I wish to discuss it with you and some others before I offer it. I think it will be several months before everyone is settled in enough to get to the real business of keeping Freeland running. Almost everyone has donated to our treasury, so we can purchase supplies if needed. The Emperor met with the Council and essentially told us if we needed something, go into Umbria and get it. The lands around us are vacant and he plans to keep them that way until we're settled here. Landor told us that the new lordships that border us to the south will be instructed to assist us in any way possible. But I think he will run into problems there. I believe your messengers went missing because of those Lords. We would do well to avoid them."

"If they harmed a messenger, I will not avoid them," Jorgarn spat. "I will slip across the border and their servants will find them dead in their beds. To think those men might have survived a war only to be harmed in their own country by someone they believed they could trust. I find that unconscionable."

Leyota nodded.

"Landor and Torbert do, as well," she said. "But it is Emertland's problem to deal with. You simply cannot sneak across the border and slay someone you dislike. Trust Landor to handle it and act on his orders from Emertland, not on your own from Freeland. Please?"

It took a bit more convincing, but Jorgarn eventually agreed – with a caveat.

"If they are proven duplicitous and Emertland fails to take action, I reserve the right to handle it myself," he said. "Honestly, at this point, Emertland would most likely seek to contract the services of your militia to handle it anyway."

-------

Like so many years before, Jorgarn walked down a gangway and started the long walk to the castle.

He would no longer reside there. He had made that clear to Torbert who accepted it without protest. Jorgarn would fulfill his role to the letter but go no farther. He was under no obligation to live in the castle, nor was he under an obligation to act as Denae's adviser. He was to be her shield; he need not be her friend.

The few who remained from the Guards were surprised to see Sir Jorgarn walking through their ranks. Only a handful of men who had gone to war with him still remained. The rest had taken Denae's actions as a personal affront not only to the man they most respected but to themselves. They put themselves in harm's way – and returned without many friends – so she could rule a peaceful Emertland beside Sir Jorgarn.

They did not go so she could have a license to treat him with such disdain.

King Landor was also surprised when Jorgarn entered the study for the daily briefing – but no more than Denae.

"You ... you returned!" she said. "I'm glad you have forgiven me."

"There is no forgiveness," Jorgarn clarified. "Nor do I expect there will be. I have stayed because I made a vow and I have no Seconds to leave the duty to. It is only my respect for Sir Torbert that forced this decision. It has nothing to do with you."

"Sir Jorgarn will return to the barracks where he will oversee the training of what little Guard remains," Torbert said. "Gorin has retired. He has agreed to try to spur recruitment efforts but we foresee much difficulty."

"Why?" Landor asked. For the first two years of the war, recruitment was at an all-time high. The last year – as word of the destruction of the Guard spread – it declined rapidly.

"Many reasons," Torbert said. "None of which it is appropriate to discuss in open session. Suffice it to say it is no longer viewed in the same light as it was. We can discuss it later. Jorgarn requested a two-month leave of absence and has returned from it. He will fulfill the role of Knight as is written. I want it clear that I accept his decision. He has returned all but the original section of land that you sold him, Landor. He is a citizen of Freeland."

Landor had started to scowl at Torbert's pronouncement about recruitment and it deepened when he learned of Jorgarn's affiliation with Freeland. He was happy enough to allow him to go but now he was in a position of authority and it didn't set well with the King.

"Do you plan to renounce your Freeland citizenship and return to your role as Knight?" Landor asked brusquely.

Torbert spoke before Jorgarn could answer.

"It is not a requirement," he said. "It has never happened that a Knight has ceded his Emertland citizenship but there is no requirement that he be a citizen either. We have had several foreigners as Knight."

"I believe he should swear fealty unto me," Landor stated.

"Also, not a requirement," Torbert interjected. He could see Jorgarn's temper fraying. "He has taken an oath to protect the Heiress and the household. No Knight has ever been compelled to swear fealty. The oath he took at the Ascension Ceremony covers all of his duties and responsibilities. I will block you if you try to add more in Tribunal. Furthermore, I will join Sir Jorgarn in refusing to do more than my predecessors have done."

Thus started a remarkably rocky period in Emertland's history.

-------

The months following Jorgarn's return were a time of upheaval in Emertland. The majority of its army was gone and the capital's economy had suffered from the loss of one-fifth of its population, including many people who were considered skilled craftsmen. Only the addition of goods from Longview and Domita kept the crisis from deepening.

Landor had done his best to maintain a sense of order but there was a remarkable loss of respect for the Crown. Denae had married Frayon in a small ceremony while Jorgarn was still in Freeland. It was nothing like the grand event she had expected for her wedding and she voiced her displeasure loudly and often.

Her son, whom she christened Leyod after his father's father, was born only five months after the wedding, creating deepening problems for the monarch. Four months after Jorgarn returned, King Landor summoned the Princess to his private study.

Denae had alternated between sulking and raging for the past few weeks. Jorgarn refused to spend any time with her that wasn't provided for in his oath. He refused to even acknowledge her husband or her child. The situation was untenable and it was no time for Landor to mince words.

"Denae, you once told me if the time came when I thought someone else would be better suited to follow me to the throne, that you would abdicate your position," he said. "The time has come. I ask you to remove yourself willingly. However, if you do not, I will compel you to step aside."

"What?" Denae said loudly.

"I wish to name a new Heir," Landor said simply. "Your actions have cost this country its most honored hero, the majority of its army and much of its treasury. You have cost the Crown its respect. You have a Knight who despises you and Emertland and none will assume the role of his Seconds. That has been made clear to me. I no longer wish you to follow me. I believe I can do better. You may stay at the castle, simply because you are my daughter. However, I will not abide your illegitimate child or your idiot husband in my home. They are to be sent back to Troch immediately."

"I will not do so willingly," Denae said simply.

"Then I will have you and your husband charged with crimes against the Crown and remove you that way," Landor replied. "It is not only the nobility who laugh at you and your bastard. People on the street point and make fun of you as they pass. You are the brunt of many jokes in Emertland and I would wager in many other places as well. You had a child out of wedlock while you were betrothed to another. I will see you charged with that before I permit you to rule this country or worse, designate that bastard son of yours to rule it. Please alert your family that they have until the day after tomorrow to make arrangements to leave the castle. At that time, you will relinquish your role as Heiress or be charged by the Tribunal. You are dismissed."

Denae stormed from her father's study. Frayon had come home smelling of wine and tavern girls again and Leyod had cried most of the night. Landor had refused to hire a nanny for the child and Denae had little money of her own to part with.

"Wake up, you stupid toad," she screamed at Frayon when she entered their chamber. He rolled over and looked at her blearily. "My father insists that you and Leyod leave immediately. He will no longer suffer your presence under his roof. You must hire a messenger and tell your father that you and his grandson will return to Troch immediately."

"What? Why?" he asked.

"I am to be deposed as Heiress," Deane said as she sat heavily on the chair. "If I do not relinquish my birthright voluntarily it will be stripped of me. Without the evidence of my stupidity, there is a chance I can convince my father to give me another chance. But with you and your son as a constant reminder, there is little hope. So get off your fat rear and get moving. If you hurry to get the messenger off, I'm sure you will have time to say goodbye to your favorite whore before you leave."

"I'll not leave," he said. "Besides, I can't take care of that child. He'll have to stay with you even if I do leave."

"You will leave and you will take it with you," Denae yelled. "That is not even a part of the discussion. Don't you understand, you imbecile? If I am no longer Heiress, that bastard of yours is dropped from the line, too. If you want for him to have even a small chance to be King someday, you need to get off the bed and on your feet. If you are still here by morning after next, it will be because you are beside me in the dungeon awaiting a ruling from Tribunal."

Jorgarn did not wait a moment before beginning to pack his trunk. He booked passage on the first ship headed north and headed back to the place he truly wanted to be: Freeland.

-------

The King sat down heavily after ushering his daughter through the door. He hated that she forced him to take such actions but there was no way around it. She would never be considered a credible leader with an illegitimate child. The fact that her husband was a simpleton did not help the fact. But it was the knowledge that even more of his people were planning to emigrate to Freeland that forced Landor into action.

Lorida had returned from self-imposed exile to help him through the troubled times, and that mollified him somewhat. But Landor knew his country could not survive another mass exodus of its people, nor could it survive Denae assuming the Crown at any point in the near future. If something should happen to him, Landor knew, the country would erupt in civil war before allowing Denae to be crowned. He wasn't even certain the Tribunal would agree to seat her on the throne.

Sadly, Landor understood he had few viable alternatives. Torbert's daughter, Astid, was possible but she lacked credentials to fill the breech immediately. Astid, who was among the many who believed Jorgarn would return the army safely home despite rumors to the contrary, had taken the death of her older sister hard. She even decided against joining the Imperial Guard, despite the fact that for almost three years, it was all she spoke of. She wasn't interested in joining the Guard if most of the soldiers who knew her sister were gone.

Torbert and Batrix were surprised that she had not requested to leave for Freeland the day she reached her 15th birthday. Torbert still believed that she eventually would renounce the Ladyship of Weltin and emigrate. He also privately conveyed that he couldn't blame her if she did.

Several of Landor's other nieces and nephews also were considered but he found most of them lacking either in common sense, tact or valor. Most of them were lacking all three. There was one name he dismissed almost immediately but it kept returning to his thoughts.

Sadly, the person was not a blood relative but that was mattering less and less as the situation deteriorated. The next in line should be a person who could restore luster to the Crown and to the army, so a veteran was needed, someone the masses thought highly of because of deeds performed in battle. It also had to be someone who the Guard would respect, because so far each of them had turned down the Knighthood rather than deal with Denae.

He sighed deeply when he thought of how to approach the next step. He would have to go in person. A situation like this couldn't be trusted to an emissary. He summoned Torbert, who appeared immediately.

"So, how do we convince Bralan to become the next Queen of Emertland?" he asked his brother.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 37


Jorgarn crossed the border into Freeland on a horse and was greeted like a returning hero. He surprised everyone by showing up at his house one evening carrying his belongings. He was somewhat startled to see someone else was already using the main bedroom, although it was unoccupied at the moment.

Tired from the long journey, he lay down on the floor, figuring correctly he could figure things out in the morning.

Jorgarn soon learned that life had begun to take shape slowly in Freeland. There were myriad problems: a shortage of crops, an overabundance of unskilled laborers and the fact that 90 percent of the population ranged in age from 15 to 23 chief among them. There was a shortage of children, only nine younger than 14, and older adults, only 11 older than 25.

The warriors were happy with their small farms and close proximity to one another.

Pernice, Fieth, Renoit, Belad and Lippit all lived within a 10-minute walk from Jorgarn's door and Merg lived with Pernice. Leyota visited whenever her duties as a Councilor would allow, which were rare, it seemed.

It was she who used Jorgarn's rooms when she had a few days to visit – as he found out when she awakened him early the morning after his return.

"Creator!" she screamed when she opened the door and saw a strange man lying on the floor.

Jorgarn sat up and tried in vain to find his sword. He relaxed when he saw Leyota standing in the doorway. She relaxed as well, dropping all pretense and running to him for a hug.

"So it's true?" Leyota asked. "Denae has been ousted."

"For now," Jorgarn said. "I think it was mostly a way to get rid of me. Things have been testy there since I returned."

"I heard," Leyota answered. "Have you returned for good? Will you return if she is reappointed?"

Jorgarn shook his head.

"No," he said. "Once she was deposed, my commitment ended. If she is named anew, she will appoint a new Knight – if she can find one."

Leyota smiled and laughed.

She was showing the stress of leadership but she appeared to be bearing up well. Jorgarn was immensely proud of her. She had been showing up every weekend to assist the group in building dwellings or preparing fields or cutting trees. Jorgarn was amazed how much she had grown in the three years he was gone, a feeling that was never more evident than when she had hugged him and then went to the bedroom to change her clothing. She eschewed her normal manner of attire – long formless dresses – for a tight tunic and a pair of trousers when she helped.

Jorgarn had been back only a few weeks when he spotted a young woman in the Capital who he didn't recognize but looked familiar. She was walking with Belad and she stopped suddenly when she spotted Jorgarn walking toward them.

"You remember Vellendira, don't you?" Belad asked with a slight blush. He saw the confusion on Jorgarn's face so he continued. "She acted as a translator for us. She travelled with us for many months."

Recognition dawned and Jorgarn smiled.

"Well met, Vellendira," he said, exhausting his entire vocabulary of Umbrian. The young woman looked frightened.

"She is hoping to come live here," Belad said, unaware of the distress Jorgarn's proximity was causing the woman. "She showed up yesterday and the only word they understood was my name. The Council is debating their Immigration Policy right now?"

"Their what?" Jorgarn asked in confusion.

"They policy of allowing others to join us," Belad said. "I thought anyone could move here. Apparently I am the only one who thought that."

"I thought that," Jorgarn mentioned. "Well, would you please tell Vellendira that I am happy that she is well and that I welcome her to Freeland."

Vellendira and Belad started a halting conversation in Gobriki that Jorgarn was certain contained more than his welcome. Jorgarn saw Belad's face reddening and he put his hand on the man's shoulder.

"I am certain I am not among her favorite people," he said. "I believe that many in Umbria see me as little more than a barbarian."

Belad nodded sadly.

"Could you ask her how I became known as Yerk?" Jorgarn asked. "I've wondered about that since I heard the name."

Belad asked the question and his face reddened further at her answer. He looked to the distance as he tried to formulate his answer.

"Your name has sounds they don't use," he said. "So in Umbria, you were known as Yorkarn. But that word means ... well it means 'beautiful.' Yor means 'beauty.' They didn't want you to be known as Beautiful or Beauty so they settled for another word, Yerk."

"Which means?" Jorgarn prompted.

Belad looked to the ground.

"I simply want to know," Jorgarn said. "I won't take offense. There are some actions I regret – although they are few."

"It means 'animal' or 'beast, '" Belad said reluctantly. "I tried to tell her when she was travelling with us that you were truly a kind man but her country's army pushed you to the point they saw. She doesn't believe her soldiers would act as we know they did. But at the same time, she tells me that she was treated better as our captive than she was as a woman of noble birth. I don't understand."

Jorgarn smiled again at Vellendira.

"I hope she will judge me not on my past but on the future," he said. "We honored our word to those who surrendered and to those who did not take up arms. I hope that she can understand that actions in battle do not reflect on a person's character so much as they reflect on his emotions. And I hope she finds happiness in Freeland."

Belad translated Jorgarn's words but Vellendira still looked uncomfortable around the man who order her country destroyed.

-------

It was later the same day when a tired Leyota delivered the Council's verdict. They had agreed to an open policy on allowing people to live among the Freelanders.

"I should hope," Jorgarn said. "These people that are here, we're all from somewhere else. Vellendira has more claim to this land than any of us. Why was there even a discussion?"

"Because some people insist upon a discussion for everything," Leyota railed. "There are some on the Council who are in love with the sound of their own voices."

She sat heavily on a wooden bench at Jorgarn's table.

"Are you not enjoying the trappings of power?" Jorgarn asked as he sat across from her.

"Mostly, I am," she said. "We have a real opportunity to make a great country. But others cannot seem to understand that this cannot be based on the land we left. We must forge a new identity, away from Emertland and Longview and Swar. We must be our own country with our own goals. There are some who simply do not understand that or simply won't admit it."

She exhaled heavily and lowered her head to her chest. Jorgarn reached across to rub the muscles in her neck and shoulders.

"It won't work unless we all want the same things," she said.

"Oh, it will work either way," Jorgarn answered. "I have faith in people like you to lead us in the right direction. It will be harder if there are others pulling the opposite way, but it will work. The others will simply be left behind. You have spoken of your vision for Freeland and I think it is a good one. I think most people support it. What is hardest is convincing them it won't be fulfilled in a week or a month or a year. We probably will still be working toward the goals you set this week in 10 years, if the truth is told. It is a slow process and we are starting with next to nothing. I know you understand that and so do many of us. I also know you can be persuasive when you need to be."

Leyota felt her muscles relax under Jorgarn's strong hands.

"I wanted to show you something but it can wait until later," he said. "Merg and his three friends have done a wonderful job in creating the new bows. The trees on your land are perfect for it and Merg figured out if he takes the wood to the stream and uses a polishing rock with the silt, he can make them extremely smooth and supple."

"Really?" Leyota asked absently.

"They have made it a very efficient process," Jorgarn continued. "One boy finds the wood and cuts it to the right length, a second strips the bark and shaves it and Merg polishes it clean. They have managed to make three a week for the past month. I tried the first one today. It is impressive. As soon as the blacksmith's shop is ready, they want to discuss a new design for arrows. One of the Velottans showed them a tri-tip. Once the bows are aged, they want to offer them to the militia."

Leyota turned to Jorgarn and a broad smile flashed across her face.

"When they are complete, you want to sell them to the Council to give to the militia," she said. "I think you should wait until they have 20 or 30 complete. Offer to sell 10 to the militia and then suggest to Council that we approach Emertland and Swar to see if they would like to buy the remainder. Jorgarn, we have our first tradable goods!"

"Uh, OK," he said. "If that's what you think we should do, that is what we'll do. I'm just glad to see you smiling again."

Leyota's smile widened further.

"Which brings me to another reason I stopped by," she said. "If I told you that you could do something that would make me smile for the rest of my life, would you do it?"

"Of course," Jorgarn said without hesitation.

"Perhaps you should wait until I finish before answering," she said with a slight smirk.

"Why?" Jorgarn asked. "If you think it should be done and it will make you happy, I am positive that I would do it. What is it?"

Leyota took a deep breath.

"It would make me very happy if you were to allow me to become your wife," she said.

Jorgarn's eyes widened in surprise and his mouth dropped open.

"Are, are you sure?" he stammered. Leyota's warm, rich laughter filled the room.

"Only since about the second time I met you," she said. "Well, perhaps the first time. Do you remember that? The first time we met, I mean."

Jorgarn nodded.

"Your brother and I met your carriage when it arrived at the Capital just before the Ascension Ceremony," Jorgarn related.

"Yes," Leyota responded. "You met our carriage and assisted me from it. You smiled up at me and extended your hand for mine. I took it and you assisted me down the stairs. You didn't lift me beneath my arms and carry me off. You allowed me to exit the carriage as a young woman and not as a little girl. It was the first time that had happened to me. Then you proffered your arm to me and escorted me into our lodgings. You did not put your hand on my shoulder and usher me forward. You allowed me to enter beside you. Oh, that caused a round of teasing from Riset. But it was worth it.

"Jorgarn, there has never been a time when you didn't treat me as your equal. The day I came to your chamber to tend to you, we sat and talked. You and I had an adult conversation – another first for me. Even with the Princess, I was a charity project. She wanted so much to impress you with her maturity that she took me in – then treated me as if I were a child. I was utterly ignored, as invisible as Merg used to be – as invisible as I was at home. Then you asked me on to your staff. The next thing I knew, I was running your staff. You gave me guidance but you trusted me to act as I saw fit in most matters. You asked my opinion on things and it wasn't simply to appease me. It was because you valued it. Even when you acted outside of how I believed you should, I knew you still considered my view rather than dismissing it as advice from a child.

"When Stenweed came, I expected my role with you to diminish. Instead, you made sure it expanded. I was your personal secretary. I was the person you trusted in all matters, the person who knew of your plans for Salaria first and the person who understood above anyone else what pain the Princess caused you. I was the only person under Creation you trusted with all your secrets. Now, you seek my counsel on almost every matter that concerns you and Freeland. You seek it not because of my role here. You seek it because you value me. Yes, Jorgarn, I am certain that I would very much like to have you as my partner for the rest of our lives."

Jorgarn gazed across the table at the beautiful young woman across from him.

"Then it would make me extremely honored to have you as my wife," he told her as he extended his hands to her. He was surprised when she didn't take them.

"I ask only that you consider it," Leyota said. "You need not answer now. I don't mean to pressure you."

Jorgarn chuckled.

"There is no pressure," Jorgarn said. "I have long known that you are a formidable woman. And I confess I have long loved you. When you were not yet an adult, I loved you not in the manner of husband and wife but in the manner I loved Eslada. I consider Chicote my family and I considered you that, too. You are the only person I know who can brighten my darkest mood with a single look. I have told you before that you have a wonderful smile. What I should have told you is that you have the most beautiful smile I've ever seen. Since my return from battle, I have come to picture you differently. Not as the young woman I left to handle my affairs and to make decisions on my behalf. Now I view you as the adult you have become: The woman who still brings lightness to my heart whenever I am near to you. You are the woman I trust most in the world and you are the woman I missed most when I was away.

"It was Denae who I still believed that I loved. These past months, I have come to realize that you were always the one closest to my heart, the first person I thought of when in times of trouble or times of happiness. My heart leapt when you announced that you would accompany me wherever I went. It was while I was away that I realized that I wished Denae acted and thought as you do. It saddened to me think that one day you would marry someone else and our relationship would change. I believed you looked at me as another older brother. I did not realize that you felt this way."

"I saw what happened to Bralan," Leyota replied with a blush. "Do you realize, even now, when you speak of me as a 12-year-old, you do not refer to me as a child?"

"I did not know you as a child," Jorgarn said simply. "From the moment I met you, you carried yourself with grace and charm. I do not need to consider this, Leyota. I believe we will make a wonderful couple. I believe we have made a wonderful couple for many years now."

Tears welled in the corners of Leyota's eyes but her smile was wide and as pretty as ever.

"When do you wish to marry?" Jorgarn asked. "I know these things take several months to prepare for and I believe it will take longer given our lack of facilities here. I know you probably dreamed of your wedding day as a child. I will do everything I can to make it as wonderful as you hoped it would be."

Leyota tilted her head back and laughed.

"You are certain that you wish me as your wife?" she asked again. "Absolutely certain?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"Come," she said as she finally took the hands he had left outstretched to her. "I wish to tell Merg first. Then we will announce it to our friends. Is Merg nearby?"

"At the creek," Jorgarn said. "I doubt he will accept the news well. I believe he loves you himself."

Leyota shook her head.

"No," she replied. "I mean, yes, but not the way I love you. He idolizes us both. He does not think of me as a future wife for him, although he does enjoy looking at my wobblies."

She glanced down at her bosom.

"But he enjoys looking at everyone's wobblies," she continued. "He is, after all, a 12-year-old boy. He caught Lucea Alna in the tub last week. I literally had to take his arm and lead him away. Otherwise he would still be standing there looking."

"I must admit that I stared at your 'wobblies' the first time I saw you had grown them," Jorgarn said playfully.

"You are still as bad as Merg sometimes," Leyota rejoined with a light swat on the arm. "Usually, I simply pretend I am looking elsewhere and allow you to enjoy them."

She stopped just inside the door and pulled the bodice of her dress downward.

"There, my pre-wedding gift to you," she said. "You are the only male to ever see them bared. Do you like them?"

Jorgarn gulped. Leyota's breasts were lovely. The bodice of the gown thrust them upwards toward him. The playful smile on Leyota's face only added to her charm. His hands went forward without conscious thought but he regained control soon enough to stop them at her waist.

"Touch them if you would like," she whispered. "So long as we cement our courtship with a kiss."

Jorgarn leaned forward and pressed his lips to Leyota's. Her hands left the front of her gown and went around his neck, pulling him tighter to her. Her hips pressed forward until their midsections touched.

Leyota found Jorgarn's left hand with her right and pulled it upwards until it rested over the breast which was now covered again by her gown. He felt the hard nipple beneath the fabric for only a moment before Leyota brought his hand higher. She slipped both of their hands beneath her gown and the intensity of her kiss grew as Jorgarn's fingers gently glided across her bare skin.

She gasped at the sensation then pulled his hand out of her gown.

"We should find Merg," she whispered. "Otherwise our marriage will be consummated before we even announce our engagement."

Jorgarn stepped backward but Leyota closed the distance hurriedly and kissed him again.

"Maybe a few more minutes," she muttered.

The pair walked hand-in-hand to the stream where they found their ward. Merg was knee and elbow deep in the water as he used the coarse bottom to give the bow a smooth finish. He jumped a little when Leyota called his name.

"Leyota!" he replied as he tried to extricate himself from the water. He carried in his hand a thin piece of wood a little taller than Leyota. He offered it to her for inspection.

"Jorgarn has been telling me about how well you've done," she said as Merg beamed. "Look at this. It's beautiful."

Merg blushed but said, "Thank you."

"No, thank you," Leyota said excitedly. "Merg, this is amazing. Jorgarn was telling me about what you were doing but I've never actually seen them used. I didn't understand just how hard you've been working on these until I saw this. I understand you have 10 of them finished?"

"Twelve," Merg said, appearing embarrassed by the praise. "We'll have three more by day after tomorrow. Is the smithy up yet?"

"Not quite," Leyota said. "I suspect it will be a week or two. Jorgarn said you have some ideas for an arrow?"

"Well, none of this is my idea," Merg pointed out. "Jorgarn already knew what he wanted to do. My friends and I just found a quicker way to do it is all. And the arrow comes from one of the men who fought for Velotta. I'm not even sure it will work with this bow."

"But you want to find out," Leyota said with a smile. "And if it does, you will be the first to know. I'm not sure you understand the significance of this bow. This is the first step to Freeland surviving. You and your friends have produced the first item that will be of worth to other people. Merg, I am so proud of you I could burst!"

"Well, don't," Jorgarn said with a smile. "It would take a day or two for your remnants to wash downstream. I don't think Merg wants to delay."

Leyota gave Jorgarn a mock glare and Merg chuckled.

"I'm glad you like them, Leyota," Merg said sincerely. "And I'm glad you brought me here. I like living with Jorgarn and Pernice and I like making the bows. It's hard work, but I like it anyway."

Leyota glanced slightly toward Jorgarn who appeared to be looking out over the water.

"Well, I guess that brings us to another reason for our visit to your office," Leyota said. "I am getting married."

Merg's eyes narrowed and he glanced at Jorgarn.

"I would prefer to stay with Jorgarn," he said quietly. "I mean no disrespect for I am sure any man you marry would be a fine man. But I like it here."

Leyota laughed.

"Well, that is just as well," she said with an exaggerated sigh, "because it is Jorgarn that I will marry. You are very dear to both of us and we wanted to tell you first."

The boy's mouth dropped and he glanced from Leyota to Jorgarn and back again.

"You are going to marry each other?" he asked. "That is wonderful. I am so happy for you."

Without regard to his wet clothing or the unfinished bow in his hand, Merg threw his arms around Leyota and hugged her.

"So you will stay with us?" Leyota asked.

"Yes," Merg answered. "I mean, if you want me to."

Jorgarn put his arm around the boy and drew him closer.

"Of course we do," Jorgarn said. "I know I don't say things like this but I love you. I hope if I am one day blessed with a son, he is exactly like you. I am extremely proud of the young man you've become."

"And I feel the same way," Leyota said. "I hope you know that I asked to be your sponsor because I loved you like a brother."

Merg wiped away a small tear and looked to the forest in embarrassment.

"I love you both, too," he said. "And I am very happy that you've decided to marry Jorgarn. When is the ceremony?"

Jorgarn shrugged and looked at Leyota.

"One day, when it comes time for you to marry, you will learn that men have absolutely no say in the matter," he said with a smile. "So the ceremony will be whenever Leyota wants it to be. My job is to simply show up. You will be responsible for making certain that I do my job."

Leyota slapped Jorgarn's arm lightly then hugged herself to him.

"When you are finished with that bow, come find us," Leyota said. "I have some news to deliver to Belad, so you might check there first."

Merg nodded and looked at the wood in his hands. He would have liked to have accompanied them then but he knew he should finish what he started.

"It shouldn't take long," he said. "Perhaps only as long as it takes to walk to Ronac's. Will that be too long?"

"If it is, we'll wait," Leyota said. "I am done with Council duties for three days."

Jorgarn and Leyota found Pernice, Fieth, Renoit, Lippit, Belad and Vellendira at Belad's dwelling. They all looked up when the newly betrothed couple entered.

"What news?" Belad asked at once.

"We have agreed to open immigration for the foreseeable future," Leyota said with a smile. "Vellendira is welcome to stay here so long as she agrees to the rules that each of us agreed to. She must learn Emerti, work for her food and enlist in the military for two years. Oh and she must register her name with the Council, just as we all did. Then she is a citizen of Freeland. Actually, she was a citizen as soon as I registered her name. I made sure it was written that way. It allows her to enjoy all the rights while she learns the language."

"Thank you, Leyota," Belad said. Jorgarn looked at him while he explained to Vellendira that she was welcome in Freeland. A small smile crossed his lips and he nudged Leyota. She caught what he was looking at and nudged him back. When he finished the explanation, Vellendira chanced coming close to Jorgarn long enough to take Leyota's hand and offer her thanks in passable Emerti.

"I believe this calls for a celebration!" Pernice said.

"Wait, I have more news," Leyota announced. "And I ask that the celebration be postponed until later this evening. Jorgarn and I have an errand to run before we can celebrate."

She hazarded a glance at Jorgarn to see if he wanted to make the announcement. But he simply smiled at her and nodded for her to continue.

"Jorgarn and I are to be wed," she said with a broad smile.

All eyes shifted to Jorgarn then many voices spoke at once.

"Congratulations!" Fieth said as he slapped Jorgarn on the back.

"Well done!" Pernice said with a smile. He wrapped Jorgarn in a hug. "You have certainly won a prize."

Leyota waited until the commotion died down – and for Belad to finish filling in Vellendira on what had transpired – before she elbowed Jorgarn in the ribs.

"You will notice that they congratulated you and not me," she said with raised eyebrows. "You would do well to remember that in the future."

"Merg congratulated you," Jorgarn pointed out with a sly smile. "Besides, these people have been around me for four years. They know I'm getting the best end of the bargain."

"So, have you thought about when?" Chicote asked his sister.

"Now," Leyota said.

"Now?" Jorgarn wondered.

"Now," Leyota repeated. "There are many differing nationalities and beliefs in Freeland. We decided that we all needed to be able to speak the same language but we certainly didn't all need the same faith. So there is no official faith. A couple is free to marry in front of a priestess or priest, a druid or even their parents. But all that needs to be done is for us to go to the Council office and register our marriage. That is the errand we need to do. Well, as soon as Merg arrives. I figured we would have to spend an hour tracking this lot down. I should have known they would all be here. We will need him to find other accommodations for the night – or maybe the next few nights."

-------

Jorgarn and Leyota set off for the Capital – on Fieth's borrowed wagon – once Pernice promised that Merg would be welcome to join him on a camping excursion for a couple of days. Leyota waved at a woman Jorgarn knew was a fellow Councilor then jumped from the wagon.

"Nera, is it your time to sit in chambers?" she asked. The woman nodded and Leyota smiled widely.

"That is wonderful!" she exclaimed. "I have much news and I am happy that you will be the one to report it."

She waited for Jorgarn to unhook the wagon and hobble the horses before the trio went inside together. There was a solitary room and a sour-faced man sat at a desk.

"It is about time," he snapped at Nera. "I was about to leave this unattended."

"I'm not late, Deloy," Nera said evenly. "I am just not here early like I usually am."

"Well, you're here now, so I'm leaving," the man said huffily. He shot a hard look at Leyota and Jorgarn as he passed them. Leyota noticed that Jorgarn had tensed and she squeezed his arm.

"What is his problem?" Jorgarn asked when the man had departed. "He better sort it out soon or he might find a new one – me."

Leyota felt warmth spread over her at Jorgarn's protectiveness. She knew he cared little if Deloy Snood disliked him. But he was angered that he would look at Leyota with disdain.

"He is one who is not accepting the new reality very well," Leyota said casually.

Nera snorted.

"Do you recall him from Emertland, Sir Jorgarn?" she asked.

"First, I am Sir Nothing," he answered with a smile. "I am simply Jorgarn. But I seemed to recall he was a miller. Is that correct? I didn't deal with him much because I appointed Lippit to handle that as soon as I could. I really don't know many of the merchants who came with us. If he is so miserable, how did he get on Council?"

"That is the thing," Nera said. "In Emertland, he was funny and friendly. He always seemed to have good sense about him. He was a natural pick for Council. But I believe he expected Freeland would be exactly like the life he left. He and one other pushed for a market economy rather than a barter economy. He simply can't accept that we are in no position to issue coinage because we have nothing to base it upon."

"He is also angry that we won't allow him to change the rules mid-course," Leyota continued. "When we first were elected, we all agreed that we would stagger the appointments. Two people will serve only one year; two will serve two years and three will serve three years. We all voted that we would draw lots to determine whose term would end when. He will have only one year on Council. We agreed that anyone serving on Council must wait six years before running again. We relaxed the rule for him and Kenna Ost. They may each run again after sitting out a year. Kenna seems fine with it. But Deloy wants to change things. He got the most votes. Now he says that it should be from highest to lowest. That means that Socharn Moul and I would get only one year. Personally, I'm fine with that. I think most on Council would have gone along with it if he wasn't such a jackass when he suggested it."

Nera laughed and nodded.

"So what brings you to chambers?" she asked Leyota.

"Oh, a couple of things," she said. "First, I wanted to alert Council that the Republic of Freeland has its first viable exportable goods. A longbow designed by Jorgarn and crafted by several local youths. Jorgarn has elected to offer the first 10 to Council for use in our militia and he will provide 10 each for sale to the Empire of Swar and to Emertland, if they are interested. I saw them just a while ago. Once they see them, I believe we will be able to contract with them for more. I think even Tark might be interested. I glanced at the one Belad has in his dwelling. The one Merg and his friends made is far superior."

"It is really happening," Nera said with a shake of her head. "This is just the start. We are going to really be able to make this work."

Leyota turned to Jorgarn.

"Emertland and the Empire offered us many goods and services for free until we get established," she explained. "We elected to try to make it on our own so we were not beholden to either of them any more than we already are. Those bows – especially if the arrows work like Merg thinks they will – will allow us to establish trade. We will be able to exchange one set of goods for another instead of taking charity. That is why this is such an important step for us and it is a step that is a year ahead of what we realistically figured."

"Well, I think I can safely speak for Merg when I tell you that I am happy that we could help," Jorgarn said.

"Well, Council will ensure that Merg and his coworkers will be compensated," Nera assured him. "We will not just take the bows and use them for our own benefit."

"Merg and his friends are already compensated for their work," Jorgarn said.

Leyota turned and looked at him.

"Really?" she asked. "You pay them to do that?"

"We exchange services," Jorgarn said with a shrug. "I am training each of them of the evenings. They work during the day to build the endurance they will need for later. It is a fair exchange in their eyes."

Nera laughed and shook her head.

"Then it is you who will be compensated," she said.

"Oh, not me," Jorgarn said. "The bows rightfully belong to the boys. I just wanted you to know that no further arrangements need be offered. I believe the boys will be happy to offer their efforts for the benefit of their country. They are the ones who suggested the first bows go to the Freeland militia."

"Well, we will discuss it and move forward with it," Nera said. "What else, Leyota? You said there were a couple of reasons."

"Oh, yes," Leyota said with an air of nonchalance. "I wish to register my marriage to Jorgarn Elmwood."

The woman's quill dropped to the parchment and she almost knocked over her ink bottle in her haste to arise.

"You two are to be married!" she gushed. "Isn't that wonderful? The first marriage in Freeland and I get to record it; not only that, but it is you and Sir Jorgarn."

Nera sat heavily and fumbled through the drawers for a ledger.

"That is why I was happy when I saw you outside," Leyota said with a laugh. "I somehow doubt Deloy would be as excited about this as you are."

Nera smiled widely as she turned the ledger around to face Leyota. Leyota took the quill, dripped it in ink and wrote her name before handing the quill to Jorgarn.

"Last chance to run away," she said as she bumped his hip with hers.

"I wouldn't dream of it," he said with a sideways glance. He affixed his name right next to hers and turned the ledger back to Nera.

"Oh, you two both have such lovely writing," she said. She signed her name beside Jorgarn's on the same row. "There we are. You are now married. I can't wait to tell my husband. I think I am going to show him the book. I got the witness the wedding of Jorgarn and Leyota. You are such a wonderful couple."

Jorgarn laughed aloud, drawing a gaze from Leyota.

"I was just thinking back on my most recent betrothal," he said. "We were engaged for four years and I know the wedding was being planned for a least a year of that. This one took slightly less than the time it takes to shoe a horse. I believe I prefer this way. I am certain most men would."

Leyota slapped his arm lightly again.

"Well, a divorce works the same way, Sir Jorgarn," she said with mock anger. "So you had best be on your good behavior."

"Yes, Dearest," Jorgarn said meekly before laughing aloud again. "Wait until word gets out that all a couple has to do is to show up here and sign their names. I strongly suggest you make a divorce much harder to come by or you will have some of these men getting married and divorced six times a month. Perhaps you could make the divorce as easy but then a person can't remarry for two years or something."

Nera covered her mouth to stop her laughter.

"I don't think we thought of that," she said. "Actually, we just passed the marriage law this morning. I will bring that up next week about divorce. Deloy didn't seem very interested in discussing dissolution of marriages."

Leyota rolled her eyes.

"Well, we are off to enjoy our wedding night," she said. "If I am not in next week, send a search party to Jorgarn's. It means the rumors we have heard of his prowess with women are true and I am too exhausted to leave."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 38

Leyota practically skipped from the building, tugging Jorgarn along with her. She reached the exit to find at least 20 people waiting for them.

Fieth and Renoit came forward and gave Jorgarn and Leyota a cup filled with ale and pointed laughingly to another wagon with three casks on the back of it.

"Hail," Pernice yelled. "The happy couple!"

The crowd broke into spontaneous applause and many people stepped forward to congratulate the pair. Leyota looked taken aback.

"You didn't expect our friends just to say, 'That's nice', and go on with their lives did you?" Jorgarn joked. He stepped to the top of the stairs and asked for quiet.

"It is not just our wedding we celebrate today," he said loudly. "I gladly give you Vellendira Cormit. The first person to move to Freeland of her own free will."

Vellendira recognized her name but little else. She saw everyone laughing and applauding her. Belad was trying to explain what was happening as he ushered her to the steps.

"Vellendira was a resident of Umbria who provided valuable assistance in the war," Jorgarn continued. "I think it is only fitting that someone as brave as she is the first person we welcome to our land."

Vellendira looked shocked. She wanted to flee but Belad had his arm around her shoulder as he translated what Jorgarn was saying into her ear. Finally, she simply waved her hand at the crowd. To her surprise, they broke out into cheers again.

"You're doing great," Belad whispered. "They just want you to know that you are welcome here and that you are among friends."

Vellendira wasn't certain. She had been around enough men drinking ale to know what came next. Even the women here – and she was surprised to see a dozen women or more among the group – were drinking and laughing. She hastened back down the steps and stayed as far away from the crowd as possible. Ronac Belad was trying his best to explain to her that it was a celebration for her, too, but she seemed intent on remaining as far from everyone as she could.

Jorgarn noticed the look of fear on the woman's face. He nudged Leyota, whom the woman seemed to like, and they ventured over to where she stood.

"Well met, Vellendira," Jorgarn said again. It was the only sentence he truly understood in Umbrian.

"Well met, Yorkarn," Vellendira tried. She simply had never used certain sounds the Emertis used.

"Well, I am not yorkarn," he said. Vellendira seemed to understand his meaning because she offered a timid smile. "I think that applies to my lovely wife and to you."

Belad relayed what Jorgarn had said. Fear flashed in Vellendira's eyes and he understood. He had heard tales of the strong spirit the Umbrians drank. It led to much violence and destruction.

"Please tell your friend that I have finished the one cup of ale that I will drink tonight," Jorgarn said. "It is not Umbrian drink. It is weak and mild. I will personally defend her against any affront and I will personally escort you and her to where you will dwell this evening. I will let no harm come to her, if I can stop it."

Belad translated and Vellendira nodded.

"And I will add my personal protection, as well," Leyota added.

Vellendira laughed when Belad explained what Leyota had said.

"You know our females are valiant warriors," Jorgarn told her. "Leyota has trained for five years with a sword. I am certain Ronac will offer to train you, as well."

She looked questioningly at Belad when he spoke. He nodded his agreement; then he told her that he would help her learn the language, too.

"This is your home now," Belad said. "You are one of us and we protect our own."

Leyota put her hand out in friendship. Vellendira looked at it briefly then accepted it.

"Let us join the festivities for a while," she said to those around her. "Then we shall go home and enjoy our wedding night."

-------

The party ended as the sun faded. There were not enough torches to continue and everyone had drunk their fill anyway. By the time the evening drew to a close there were perhaps 70 people milling around, laughing and relaxing for the first time since their arrival in Freeland.

Belad and Vellendira joined Jorgarn and Leyota on the wagon back to the area in which they all resided. Vellendira had lost some of her nervousness as the evening progressed but she still was shy around most because she didn't understand what was being said. Leyota sat in the back of the wagon on the way back to Jorgarn's home and would say the Emerti word for objects they passed. Vellendira seemed to pick up many words quickly.

When they reached Jorgarn's cottage, he jumped from the wagon and went to the back. Instead of extending his hand, he put his arms beneath Leyota's shoulders and lifted her to the ground.

She laughed merrily all the way down and then swatted Jorgarn playfully on the arm.

"What, my wife?" Jorgarn asked innocently. "Is that not how I should assist you?"

"You are living dangerously, my friend," Belad joked. "My mother once went six weeks without speaking a syllable to my father over something similar."

Belad saw Jorgarn biting his lips to keep from commenting. He burst out in laughter.

"Best six weeks of his marriage, he said," Belad continued. Leyota looked for something to throw at him. Vellendira didn't understand what was said but she recognized the joking tone. She reached up and pinched Belad on the nose, much to Leyota's amusement. She motioned the woman forward.

"Leyota," she said, pointing to herself. Vellendira nodded.

"Friend," she continued as she hugged the somewhat startled woman. Vellendira recovered quickly and seemed to understand.

"Vellendira," she said. "Friend. Belad, Yorkarn, yerkis."

She giggled and Jorgarn stuck his tongue out at her.

"She said Ronac and I are beasts," Jorgarn said.

"Beastly," Belad put in. "She said we are beastly. I'm not sure if it is better or worse. We're off! I would tell you to have a nice evening but, well, I just won't."

Leyota laughed and started tugging Jorgarn to their door.

She kissed him fiercely once they were inside and started tugging at his clothes.

"I promise, my husband," she said between kisses. "I will always be faithful to you. You need never worry about me."

"I don't worry, Dearest," he answered. "You have always been faithful to me. First as my friend and now as my wife. I offer the same..."

Leyota put her finger over his lips to silence him.

"Do not make that vow," she said. "There might come a time when it is necessary for you to be with another. I understand that and I accept it."

"I do not accept it," Jorgarn said. "When you asked me – well, this afternoon – to be your husband, I do not think I have ever been happier about anything. I will gladly vow..."

Again Leyota's silenced him, this time with her lips.

"There are rumors from across the border," she said when she pulled back. "Things are changing rapidly. Do not make that promise to me. However, I will accept your promise never to be with anyone I do not approve of. Will you promise me that?"

"Of course, but... ," Jorgarn stammered before Leyota kissed him again.

"Come to bed," she said. "We can discuss the future at another time. Now, I want you to claim me."

She reached behind her neck and untied the dress she wore. It fell to the floor and Leyota stepped out of it, leaving only her chemise. He could see the darker circles of her nipples against her pale skin through the fabric. He could see her dark, lower hair.

"Tonight and well into tomorrow, we will do everything we can think of to pleasure the other," she whispered. "If I can still walk in the morning, we will start again."

The straps to her chemise fell off her shoulders and it joined her dress on the floor. Her smooth skin was flawless and she wore a golden smile across her face. Jorgarn was certain he had never seen a more beautiful sight in his life.

-------

Jorgarn and Merg were working in the garden beside the cottage months later when the sound of a horse drew their attention to the road. Both recognized the rider immediately and it dawned on Jorgarn what day it was.

"What, no welcoming party?" Drosset asked. "Don't tell me you forgot today was my birthday?"

Jorgarn smiled at the young man.

"I remembered when I saw you," Jorgarn admitted. "Does that count for anything?"

Drosset dismounted the horse and hugged Jorgarn first and then Merg.

"It is good to see you," Jorgarn said. "Is all well with you and your family?"

"It has been better, I'm certain," he said. "But the people of Longview respect Lady Eslada even if they respect no other noble. We are suffering less than some. There are rumors that King Landor has really shaken things up at the castle. Eslada didn't go to Court this year. I understand there were many others who stayed away, too, so we get all of our news second- or third-hand. I know the King visited last month and he and Eslada had a long conversation about something. No one would tell me what though; I'm just a child, after all."

Both Jorgarn and Merg laughed.

"I thought I taught you better," Merg said. "You are supposed to know all the details because you're a child. I learned more about scandals and affairs than I care to mention simply because no one even noticed I was standing there."

Drosset snorted.

"Yes, but you forget that Eslada is much smarter than most people," he said. "She always knows where I am. It is like she knows what I am going to do before I do it."

Jorgarn smiled and put his arm around Drosset and led him out of the sun.

"Did I mention to you the story of how I wound up in Emertland?" he asked. He regaled them in great detail when Drosset shook his head.

"So she uses the household staff to spy on me," Drosset said. "I thought it was supposed to be the other way around. I went out of my way to be cute and disarming to everyone who works there and they still tattle on me. I wish I had known earlier. I wouldn't have bothered."

"Oh, I'm sure they leave out a great deal of your mischief," Jorgarn said. "You have treated them well so they don't want to see you caned. But Eslada treats them well too, and they know where their meals come from."

The sound of more horses drew Merg to the window.

"You better stop telling stories," he said. "Lady Eslada just arrived in a carriage."

"Oh, yeah," Drosset said. "I rode ahead to warn you. She is highly upset that you didn't stop to see her before you departed – or since. It is only a day's ride from here. Sorry."

Merg opened the door for Eslada before she could knock. Jorgarn saw her standing there with her arms crossed.

"Merg, what a surprise," she said sweetly. "Look at how you've grown! Could I ask you to give me a moment alone? Drosset, go sit with your sister."

There was no sweetness in Eslada's voice when she spoke to her ward. He complied without a single glance at Jorgarn.

"Actually Merg, why don't you run to the Capital and see if Leyota is free. I'm sure she would want to see Eslada and Bralan," Jorgarn said. "Eslada, welcome to my home."

"Don't 'Eslada' me," she said as she stalked over to him. "You are gone for more than three years then you can't find a moment to come to me to let me see you're alive before you run off and steal half of Emertland? It's been another year and you couldn't find a day to come to see me?"

"I'm sorry," Jorgarn said. "I sent you a message with Drosset. I hope you got it."

"I got it," she snapped. "Five sentences after three years. 'I have decided to leave Emertland. I must leave quickly and there is no time to visit. I will see you as soon as I can. Give my best to Bralan. I hope all is well. Love, Jorgarn.' I think I deserve a bit more than that."

"You do and I said I'm sorry," Jorgarn said. "When I sent Drosset back to you, I planned to be back in Emertland in a few weeks. Well, things took on a different bent shortly thereafter. When I was offered a reprieve from my Knighthood, I felt it was best for me to go quickly before Denae convinced Landor to clap me irons. I honestly have been unsure if I would be welcomed if I returned. We have heard rumors of unrest from down there. I wasn't sure that I wasn't considered a criminal."

"Bah!" Eslada said. "You have not written a word to me since you got here. Otherwise, I could have told you that you were welcome back. In fact, that is what I've come to discuss with you."

"There is little to discuss," Jorgarn said. "I have no desire to see Emertland again. Outside of you and your wards and a few others, I believe I brought the best of Emertland with me when I left."

"You damned well know you did!" Eslada said angrily. "How are things here?"

"Good," Jorgarn answered. "We have few trade goods yet but we have exported some things. We offered Emertland some longbows that are crafted here but so far we haven't heard back. We sent a dozen to Swar last month and I suspect they will want more. Other than that, we trade back and forth with some of the closer villages. Two neighboring lords that Landor appointed in what used to be Gobrik and Salaria refuse to trade with us, but it is of little consequence. I believe in five years, this small area will be thriving. We are getting new people all the time. Last week we accepted two dozen people of Umbrian descent. They were mostly skilled laborers and we are desperately short of those. I expect more from Emertland to arrive, honestly. It is another reason I haven't written. I wasn't certain that Freeland wasn't considered an enemy and I didn't want anyone to think you were in league with us if we were."

"You should know Landor better than that," Eslada replied.

"I wondered if perhaps he had been killed," Jorgarn admitted. "I do not put it past the man Denae married. I know Landor dislikes him immensely. Much can change in a year."

"Yes, it can," Eslada said coldly. "I want you to know that I am very hurt by the fact you have not bothered to visit me or Bralan in so long. After all, she saved your life."

"She did," Jorgarn admitted. "And I believe I expressed my gratitude to her when it happened and for several weeks afterward. So please don't try to make me feel guilty."

"Fine," Eslada said. "Let's get back the changes in Emertland: Landor still lives, as does Torbert; Lorida has returned to the castle but Batrix and Astid are still away. Neither has returned to the castle in almost four years. However I am here to discuss with you the Knighthood you still should hold."

Jorgarn's eyes hardened.

"It is a fact that you are still Knight Protector to the Heiress," she said. "You still live. The Heiress still lives. Regardless of what you wish to think, you cannot simply quit and run away. I am here to ask you to return to your post and fulfill your obligation."

"And I am here to tell you 'no'," Jorgarn said bitterly.

"Hear me out," Eslada said.

"As I said to Denae," Jorgarn interrupted. "The key point of my job is a willingness to die in the Heiress' place. I believe she would be better served with someone else because I am no longer willing to fulfill that portion of my duties."

"Why?" Eslada asked.

Jorgarn rolled his eyes but his stepmother sat across from impassively awaiting his reply.

"Well, let us see," Jorgarn said. "Where do I start?"

"The Heiress has committed no grievance against you that can't be forgiven," Eslada said.

Jorgarn found it slightly humorous that Eslada did not see the irony in her statement.

"So you expect me to live and work with a woman I was supposed to marry?" Jorgarn asked.

"I want you to live and protect a woman who always wished to marry you," Eslada said.

"And I just ignore her husband and child?" Jorgarn responded.

"The Heiress has no husband, nor does she have a child," Eslada pointed out.

Jorgarn shook his head in confusion.

"Even if I didn't know for a fact she does, it wouldn't matter," he said. "It does not forgive what she gave away to that pompous lout."

"The Heiress gave away nothing of the sort," Eslada replied. "I have it upon good authority that her purity is still intact."

"Cläda!" Jorgarn spat. "If Denae is unsullied then I am ... I am ... well, I am something."

Eslada's mask dropped and she laughed.

"Denae is married with an illegitimate child," Eslada answered. "So whatever it is you might have been, you're not."

"What is going on here?" Jorgarn said. "Why are you talking in riddles?"

"Use your mind," Eslada said. "I told you the Heiress is pure and she has loved you for as long as she has known you and she would like for you to be her Knight. I also said that Denae has an illegitimate son. What does that mean to you?"

"Landor finally replaced Denae?" Jorgarn asked. "I believed she was deposed simply to rid the kingdom of me. I figured she would be renamed once I was safely away. With whom did he replace her?"

Eslada took Jorgarn's hand, pulled him to his feet and led him to the door. She gestured to the carriage where her wards stood talking to Merg.

"Bralan has been selected as King Landor's heir," she said.

Jorgarn's mouth dropped and Eslada put a hand on his arm.

"There is no one in Emertland I would trust as her Knight," she said. "I have urged her to visit with you and try to convince you to return. If she cannot, I believe she will turn down the honor."

"That is ridiculous," Jorgarn said. "There must be a dozen worthy candidates."

"And all of them are here with you," Eslada pointed out. "The only ones left in the Noble Guard are the ones too stupid to follow you out. Do you really want that for her? Please consider my request."

"Eslada, it is not that simple," Jorgarn protested. "Do you expect me to leave this place and return to Emertland? What of Pernice and my friends? Do you expect them to return as well? What of my wife? She is a Councilor here."

"Your what!" Eslada yelled as she slammed the door closed again.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and MacKite.



-------

Chapter 39


"You are married?" Eslada asked. "And it didn't occur to you that I might want to meet your wife or come to the ceremony? Jorgarn, once this is decided, you and I are going to have a talk about what it means to be a family."

"It's not like that," Jorgarn protested. "There was no ceremony. Our system is simpler here. More like Longview's. We decided we wanted to wed. We went to the Councilor's chambers and recorded it. And we were married. It was less than a day from the time we decided until it was done."

Eslada's eyes were slits as she glared at her stepson.

"And you didn't think you should write to me?" she asked. "You didn't think I might want to meet this trollop you married."

"Hey!" Jorgarn said loudly. "Stepmother or not, I will toss you out on your rear if you speak of her like that again."

Eslada took a deep breath and apologized.

"You've met perhaps a hundred times," Jorgarn said. He heard the sound of laughter outside the door and he recognized it as Leyota's. "In fact, if you would like to meet her again, she's here. I married Leyota!"

"Little Leyota?" Eslada asked.

"She is not little anymore," Jorgarn said. "No, wait, that is not what I meant to say. Don't you dare tell her I said that! I meant she is an adult. She is one of the seven who govern Freeland."

Eslada had slumped into the chair when the door opened and Leyota and Bralan entered. Leyota saw Eslada's posture and Jorgarn's face and laughed.

"Well, I guess you told her," she said. "That leaves me to tell Bralan."

Bralan looked confused when Leyota took her hands.

"Bralan, I suspect I know why you're here," she said. "I have kept it from Jorgarn although it pained me to. I understand why he should return and I will try to convince him. But you must know something: He is my husband."

"You... ," Bralan stammered. "You married Jorgarn. I waited for months for him to send for me. When I heard what Denae did, I expected him to come for me, to ask to court me. Every day I was in the infirmary, Jorgarn was there. He visited me every single day. When it was time for me to return with the wounded, he kissed my cheek and told me he would see me soon. You knew this. I told you this. And you marry him as soon as you could get him away from me."

Leyota sighed and ushered her friend to a seat beside Eslada.

"I have long loved him, too," Leyota said. "I was a little more circumspect about it. But yes, I loved him as dearly and as deeply as you did. Perhaps even deeper, I'm not sure. So, yes, the very day the Council decided what would constitute a marriage, I asked Jorgarn, but I suspected from the outset it would be a short marriage. We sent an emissary to Emertland and he brought back news of Denae's descent. Your name was mentioned as a possible replacement. After all, you are the heroine who risked her life to save Emertland's greatest hero. You are graceful and intelligent and, well, you're nice. Everyone who meets you, loves you. Well, everyone with any sense."

She gazed at Jorgarn.

"This why I would not allow you to pledge your faithfulness to me," Leyota said sadly. "I suspected that Landor would come to understand that Emertland would be best served with Bralan as its Queen. I also suspected she would want you to return to be her Knight."

She looked back at Bralan, who had tears in her eyes.

"So, yes, I married him when I got the chance," she admitted. "I decided to steal a month or a year or a decade of happiness until you arrived for him. I'm not sorry I did but I am sorry that it caused you pain."

Bralan looked at the floor, ashamed of her earlier accusations.

"I probably would have done the same thing," she admitted. "I guess I am trying to do the same thing. But are you saying that you are willing to share your husband with me?"

Leyota sat beside Bralan and took her hand again.

"Sadly, I am not," she said. "What I am hoping is that you will be willing to share your husband with me."

"Wait!" Jorgarn said. "This is ridiculous! What are you talking about?"

"I will divorce you before we return to Emertland," Leyota said. "It would be unseemly for me to force Bralan to live a celibate life and I know she would. She could never have a child because the rules that apply to Denae would apply to her. She would never take a husband so long as you were nearby. So, I will divorce you so you can marry her. There will be no record of your marriage here. That page is already gone from the book. In fact, the only record of our marriage is beneath our bed. So I hope that Bralan will be willing to share you with me. There will be some shame involved if I were to have a child out of wedlock, but it would not be unheard of. I will survive. I can resume my role as your attendant, if you like. Or I am willing to simply be your mistress, but I think it best if we maintain a firm sense of discretion."

"I won't agree to this," Jorgarn said. "Bralan, I do care deeply for you. I probably even love you. I simply don't know. But I am certain that I love Leyota and I do not wish to leave her or betray her."

"You are not betraying me," Leyota said sharply. "I knew this day would come. I understood it and I accepted it. I do not wish to give you up. But I will do what is right and what is best for everyone ... just as I know you will, Jorgarn. And just as I know Bralan and Pernice and Lippit and my brother and Fieth and Belad and Vellendira will. They will not join you immediately; they will stay here and grow this land. But they will join you soon. Civil war looms in Emertland. Even now, Lord Troch is trying to raise an army in the former lands of Salaria, Gobrik and Vecad. He promises them independence again once his daughter-in-law is Queen. Personally, I think Denae will be killed quickly if the coup is successful that way his grandson will be a child King and his son, Frayon, can be Regent. You must return to protect Bralan. There is no other choice."

"Of course I will protect Bralan," Jorgarn said, "but what is this talk of civil war?"

"She's right, Jorgarn," Eslada said, speaking for the first time in several minutes. "Longview is situated near the old Salarian border – not that you would know since you've never visited – and there has been rumors and innuendo about seeking to break away from Emertland or seeking to overthrow the King; the time is right for it. An army of 100 farmers could probably take the Kingdom from Landor. All the good soldiers are here except for perhaps a dozen."

"We would attack from the north," Jorgarn stated.

"And by the time you got there, Landor and Bralan might be dead," Leyota said. "I expect it will take at least nine months for them to raise an army. I wish for you to accompany Bralan back to Emertland and resume your post. I will ask Pernice to accompany you. Fieth and my brother will rally the rest of the troops here and we will watch for the first sign of danger. I would suspect we can put together a 200-troop army in about three days if necessary. We will join you in Emertland, as quietly as possible, in six months."

"We?" Jorgarn asked. "You plan to stay here?"

"Yes, I will stay here," she said. "I am more valuable here. I have a spy in their camp. It happened quite by accident but it easier for her to get information to me here than in Emertland."

"Who are you?" Jorgarn asked incredulously. "You have spies and you kept this information from me for how long? Leyota, there is so much I don't understand."

"Yes, I kept it from you but not to hurt you," she said. "I kept it from you because I knew it would take me months to convince you I was right. But I have never lied to you. If you would have asked me, I would have told you. I expected you to ask me on our wedding night after what I told you when you wanted to pledge your faithfulness to me. Thankfully, you didn't. But Jorgarn, even though we will divorce, my pledge to you remains. I will love you always and I never be with another. Bralan, I hope that you will consider what I have requested but I understand if you won't. I have enjoyed having Jorgarn all to myself for the past few months."

Bralan sat silently and thought about all she had heard.

"I believe I would like Leyota to be my lead attendant once things settle," she said. "I believe it will make our ruse easier to digest. Jorgarn, will you consider being my Knight and later my husband? Even if you decide you wish it to be in name only, I ask that you give me a child. I would dearly love for our child to one day rule Emertland."

Jorgarn looked up at the three faces across from him. Eslada's showed understanding and concern, not only for Bralan but for him and Leyota, too. Leyota's showed sadness and a hint of resignation. Bralan's expression was one of expectation and longing.

"I will consent to be your Knight," he said. "The three of us will discuss anything further once the situation down there is resolved. I suppose I should go discuss this with Pernice."

Leyota hugged Jorgarn tightly and ushered him to the door.

"We won't be leaving for two more days," Bralan said. "Is there somewhere we can stay for two nights?"

"You can stay here," Leyota replied. "I will send Merg to Pernice's; they camp together every chance they get. I'm sure Drosset will enjoy it, too. Merg can regale him with stories of the longbow he created."

"And what of me?" Eslada asked. "Is there an inn?"

Leyota laughed.

"Nothing of the sort," she said. "We have about five dozen vacant dwellings so there has been no need for visitor accommodations. There is a vacant house a short distance from here if you would prefer to stay there."

"I think we should," Bralan said. "I hate that I'm stealing him from you. I don't think you should divorce him ... we'll figure something out. While you're both here, I think you should spend your time with him."

Leyota considered for a moment.

"I will spend tonight with him, to say goodbye to our marriage," she said as a small tear entered the corner of her eye. "Tomorrow, we will all spend the night here."

"Not me," Eslada said quickly. "I do not want to have any knowledge of what the man the world considers my son and the woman I consider my daughter do. Especially when there is another woman who once asked me to adopt her present."

-------

Pernice looked at Jorgarn like he was insane. There was a near to even bet Pernice was correct.

"Denae is not the Heiress any longer," Jorgarn explained. "Bralan has been chosen. Leyota says the country is on the verge of civil war. I can't just leave her there with no protection."

"No, you can't," Pernice agreed.

"That's why I want you to come with me," Jorgarn said softly.

"Well, there is nothing holding me here," Pernice said. There was an air of resignation in his voice. Jorgarn's marriage to Leyota had dredged up painful memories for Pernice. He still missed Alite terribly. There were even days when he missed Rayna. "Sure, I'll come back."

"Once we make sure Bralan is safe, you'll be able to choose your path," Jorgarn said. "You were awarded a title upon our return. You might be a Lord in Emertland in a few months."

Pernice scoffed.

"I believe I would prefer to be a privy cleaner," he said. "These people, the ones with all the power, they only want more. They can never settle for what they have or share it with others. They want the whole pot. Rayna was like that. Denae turned out that way. I think Landor should pull all their titles and make them work for a damned living. Make them toil 16 hours in the fields for a loaf of bread. Make them spend six weeks on a ship so their family can eat for two more weeks. I would love to live to see that day. Instead we get these bastards like Troth and Symington who just keep taking and taking and taking. That is the real problem, you know. These nobles have grabbed so much power in the last hundred years that it has corrupted them. They believe that what they have is theirs by right instead of by accident. It is what I like so much about Freeland."

"Then you should return when this is over," Jorgarn suggested.

"But you will have to remain in Emertland," Pernice said.

"So long as Bralan is alive I will," Jorgarn said with a small nod. "So I hope that I am there for a long time."

Pernice sighed.

"You know, I was up on the hill that day," he said. "I was on the flank and we pushed them out pretty quickly. I saw Bralan spur her horse forward and I couldn't imagine why. Then I saw you on foot battling that huge bastard. Creator, he was a monster. I think Bralan saw their plan before anyone else. The man wasn't trying to strike you. His only aim was to make you stand still for the archers. If she had been a second later, that arrow would have killed you. Then she fell off the horse and drove it deeper in her leg. You went berserk. You cut the man you were fighting to ribbons and pulled Bralan behind the dead horse right as the second flight arrived. I had to tackle Usala to keep her back until we routed the archers.

"The thing is, I believe Bralan would have done that for me or Renoit or anyone," he continued. "I know she loves you. But I don't think she was even aware of who she was protecting. She just saw one us being targeted and leaped forward. So I'll stay with her."

He stopped talking suddenly.

"Landor made a good choice," he said quietly. "She will rally the country around her. Stories of her conduct in Gobrik were circulating when we returned. I think she was the first hero to come back. I had a dozen people ask me if it was true – that a small woman like Bralan rescued you from death."

"I told them it was a fact," he continued, laughing loudly. "I told them that she raced through a flight of 20 arrows to protect you. Many rounds were lifted to Bralan Longview during the short time we were there. I think she will be a perfect choice. Yes, I will go and I will stay as long as she lives. We may have to return here periodically to give training to the Freeland militia but I believe that the core of the Guard will stay in deference to the Heiress. Now who would have thought I would say those words a year ago?"

-------

Jorgarn and Leyota spent a quite night together, talking and holding the other.

"It is only for a while," Leyota insisted. "In a few months, you and I will be together again. Yes, Bralan will be there, too. But really, is that so bad? You will get to wake up each morning with one of us. What do you have to complain about?"

Jorgarn knew she was joking but he knew she also was searching for reinforcement.

"I complain because I love you and I wished to spend the remainder of my days with you," Jorgarn said. "Yes, I understand your desire for Bralan to live a happy life, but I desire for you to live a happy life, too and I desire to always be your husband. I have enjoyed these months with you more than I've enjoyed anything in my life."

"I have too," Leyota replied. "That is why I have decided not to divorce you. There is no record of our marriage. No one can prove that we have done anything more than live illicitly. I will remain your Freeland wife. Bralan can become your Emertland wife. If we move to Swar though, you don't get a third. Now I want you on top of me and inside of me."

The last night Jorgarn would spend in Freeland for many months was more awkward. Leyota had wanted to have Bralan share their bed but the woman had insisted upon sleeping in Merg's room.

"She wants her first night with you to be private," Leyota whispered. "Well, she could have had a close seat but I suppose she will just have to listen as I pleasure my husband. I was going to offer her a few tips on what you like, too. I suppose you will just have to suffer through the teeth phase with her as you did with me."

She started to descend down Jorgarn's body but he stopped her.

"I am not certain everyone is as comfortable with this situation as you appear to be," he pointed out.

Bralan had offered no objection to becoming Jorgarn's Emertland wife, as Leyota had termed it, nor had she offered an objection to sharing his affection with Leyota. But she didn't seem eager about the proposal and Jorgarn wondered if Bralan intended to try to manipulate him as Denae had. It didn't seem to be in her nature but Jorgarn would never have thought Denae capable of such machinations either.

"I will make it clear to her that if you don't join us, I will disappear again," Jorgarn said.

Leyota slapped his chest.

"You absolutely will not make that clear to her," she said. "You will woo her and win like you did me. Once I return, we will set about making things work. Now, do you want me to take you in my mouth or in my flower? I would prefer both tonight but I will insist upon one."

"Flower," Jorgarn said. He wanted to be able to kiss Leyota as often as he could.

She smirked at him as she lowered herself onto his erection.

"Yes, I suppose you will be getting a lot of mouth and rear action in the coming months," she said. "Perhaps twice in my flower tonight and once in the morning."

She kissed Jorgarn feverishly before he could respond. Leyota murmured into his mouth as she established a steady rhythm. She had perfected the art of shifting her hips at just the right moment so her special button rubbed against the base of Jorgarn's member; it always sent a jolt of pleasure through her.

Jorgarn was startled when an additional weight caused Leyota to falter. He glanced over to see Bralan sitting beside them on the bed, staring at their coupling.

"Welcome!" Leyota said though gritted teeth as she established her tempo again. Bralan's nightwear was bunched at her waist and her nipples were visible though the fabric.

"Do you want him to touch you?" Leyota asked. "Would you like to kiss him while I ride him?"

Bralan's eyes were glassy but she shook her head.

"Do anything you want, Bralan," Leyota said as she slowed her pace. "Or nothing at all. We both love you."

A slight smile crept to Bralan's face and she reached out and stroked Jorgarn's hand which was resting on Leyota's hip. Leyota took her own hand and placed it atop Bralan's as she rotated her hips across Jorgarn's torso.

"Come closer to us," Leyota urged. "Why don't you get undressed? I'm naked and so is our husband."

Bralan slid close but shook her head at removing her clothes. She kept her right hand between Jorgarn's and Leyota's but her left hand slipped between her legs.

"Jorgarn has really nice hands," Leyota said when she saw what Bralan was doing. "He could make you feel wonderful."

Again Bralan shook her head; she had yet to speak since she came into the room. She continued to pleasure herself, slowly rubbing circles on her flower. As her breathing quickened, she took her hand from between the lovers' for a moment, then pulled Leyota's hand to her breast.

Jorgarn saw the look of surprise on Leyota's face but she didn't falter. She gently kneaded the nipple and caressed the flesh around it. Bralan's climax was much more subtle than Leyota's. Her breathing became ragged for a few seconds before she emitted a long sigh and slumped forward a bit. Leyota had ceased riding Jorgarn and instead focused on gently rubbing Bralan's tender breast.

Bralan sighed deeply again and sat up, removing her nightdress in a fluid motion. Her breasts were smaller than Leyota's, even smaller than Denae's. Her skin was flushed around her neck, further accentuating her blonde hair.

"You have nice hands, too," she said to Leyota with a small smile. "Do you mind if I use them from time to time?"

Leyota returned the smile and shook her head.

"So long as I can use yours too," she said. "Would you sit behind me and play with my breasts while I continue my ride?"

Bralan's blush deepened but she started to move behind Leyota, a look of anticipation on her face. Jorgarn was further surprised when Bralan leaned forward and kissed Leyota on the lips. Leyota responded by caressing Bralan's stomach gently. Jorgarn felt Bralan's wetness on his thigh as she straddled his legs. He could barely see her over Leyota's head but he saw her hands reach forward and cup his wife's bosom.

She leaned forward and whispered something in Leyota's ear but Jorgarn couldn't hear what was said. Whatever it was made Leyota's hips move in a circular motion, a sure sign it aroused her. Leyota leaned forward and kissed Jorgarn fiercely. He felt a hand cup his sac and Leyota speed up her movements. Bralan's hands were incredibly gentle. Jorgarn could tell that Bralan was rubbing Leyota's lower back with her free hand. He felt her shift forward and saw her kiss Leyota on the back as her hand moved to where they were joined.

"Do you enjoy that?" Bralan asked. Her voice had taken on a breathy quality. "Do you like when I rub your little button?"

"Oh, yes," Leyota said. "I have his member in my belly and your fingers on my button ... I am going to go off. Let me have your seed, love. Give me your seed in my belly."

Jorgarn felt Leyota's body tense suddenly then he felt another sensation he didn't recognize. It took him a moment to realize that Bralan had slipped her thin finger into Leyota's rear passage. The effect was instantaneous. Leyota went over with a scream; her muscles tightened around Jorgarn and practically milked the seed from his sac, which Bralan continued to fondle.

Leyota, sweating and panting, lay across him limply, kissing his chest and running her fingers through his hair. Bralan lay down beside them and kissed Leyota again, this time firmer, then she lifted her lips to Jorgarn and kissed him just as passionately.

"He's getting erect again," Leyota whispered. "I can feel it growing inside of me."

"Well, you did promise him twice in your flower this evening," Bralan said as she kissed Jorgarn again, this time softer. "You don't want to waste it; there is no telling how many of those he has left."

Bralan seemed to relax quickly after her earlier shyness. She had returned to the friendly woman whom everyone adored. Leyota displayed no hesitation as she again began rocking her hips, this time in a slow, erotic movement that made her breasts do interesting things. Bralan seemed captivated by the pale orbs in front of her, too.

"I knew these were large but I didn't realize they were this nice," she said with a warm smile as her eyes followed the sway. "Just something else you have to make your sister – and me – envious."

"It was all I could do to keep from writing Riset and letting her know that I married Jorgarn," Leyota admitted. "I wanted to, but I knew that if she knew, half of Emertland would know. That would never suit our purposes. I imagine she is somewhat peeved that you are the Heiress and not her."

"Oh, I am certain," Bralan replied off-handedly. She was still watching the performance Leyota's body was offering.

"Do you wish your servants to do anything for you, Your Highness?" Leyota asked in a fake, stilted accent.

"No, I am quite enjoying just watching," Bralan admitted with a reddening face, "and I never want to hear you call yourself my servant again. My best friends, my lovers, my advisers – those I will accept ... perhaps even my spouses."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Leyota chuckled. Jorgarn saw that the additional stimulation of an audience was pushing his wife to the edge again. Her movement became more urgent. Jorgarn started to reach between their bodies to assist but Leyota stopped.

"I want Bralan to send me over," she said. "Will you, dear? Will you lick my breasts and rub my button?"

Bralan seemed to consider the request of a fraction of a second before leaning forward.

"No ... lay beside Jorgarn," Leyota said. "I want to feel both of your mouths on my nipples."

"Yes, Your Highness," Bralan rejoined with a laugh but she took the place where she was bid. Leyota leaned forward, her hands beneath her globes and proffered a nipple first to Jorgarn and then to Bralan. Jorgarn started to trace small circles and rub his teeth gently against the protrusion, but Bralan latched on and sucked the nipple deeply into her mouth. Jorgarn could feel Bralan's small hand near where he and Leyota joined and he felt Leyota shudder as she peaked. She stayed on the summit for longer than usual before starting to come down.

As Leyota crested, Jorgarn felt a hand on his wrist and then he felt Bralan's wetness beneath his fingers. He tried to emulate what he had seen her do earlier: the gentle circles she used on herself. Leyota trembled as she lifted herself to a sitting position. She hadn't stopped rocking on his erection but instead switched to a motion that brought him to pleasure quickest.

Then he felt a second hand, Leyota's, in the folds of Bralan's flower and heard a gasp from beside him on the bed.

"You should let Jorgarn use his tongue on you," Leyota whispered. "It is the most delicious feeling."

She saw Bralan's hesitation even if she didn't understand it.

"Or perhaps me?" she suggest quietly. "Would you like me to use my mouth on your petals?"

"It would embarrass me to have you do that," Bralan said.

"I offered to do it for you," Leyota responded. "Jorgarn, let us switch ways. Take me as a yerk."

Jorgarn felt the seed he had already deposited inside Leyota pool on his stomach as she lifted her tight tunnel off of him.

"You'll like this, Bralan," she said. "Sit in front of me. You'll be able to watch as Jorgarn takes me fiercely. You will be able to feel the pleasure I get out of giving myself to him completely."

Bralan, who was embarrassed and slightly confused, moved to where Leyota pointed. She saw Jorgarn's erection jutting in front of him. It was larger than she expected – much larger – and she wondered how such a small woman like Leyota managed to take it in her belly.

Jorgarn got behind Leyota, who knelt on her hands and knees in front of him, lasciviously displaying her charms to both. Her large breasts hung before her, almost touching the bedding. Then her raven hair descended and Bralan felt a soft, warm, wet touch on the petals of her flower. She gasped at the sensation and Jorgarn push forward, entering Leyota's already soaked tunnel in one motion.

Leyota's mouth left Bralan for a moment as she turned to look at Jorgarn in the dim light.

"Take me hard, love," she whispered. "Drive into me! Force my face into this sweetness! I will let you lick it off me when you've given me your spend."

Then she turned and dove back into Bralan's wet flower, licking softly but furiously around the button at the top. Bralan's hands clutched Leyota's hair as she felt increased pressure with every thrust Jorgarn made.

She was the first to find release – the biggest she had ever known. Bralan's vision became cloudy but she was aware of Leyota removing her face from the junction and speaking to Jorgarn. Then she felt the back of Leyota's head lying upon her thigh. Jorgarn was perched atop the woman, driving into her in fast, hard thrusts. She saw the oily wetness around Leyota's mouth and knew it came from her. Bralan bit her lip when she saw Jorgarn licking the nectar from around Leyota's mouth. Leyota's hands were on Jorgarn's rear, urging him into her.

Bralan was close enough to see the passion in Leyota's eyes as they used her leg for a pillow. Suddenly, both Leyota and Jorgarn stiffened. Leyota's arms flew around Jorgarn's neck as she pulled his mouth to hers. A smile came to Bralan's face when she understood that they crested together at almost the same time. She heard tales that this was the best way to conceive a child and she wondered for a moment if perhaps her husband had just given one to her wife.

As her euphoria passed, Bralan began to become more aware of everything else. Her world no longer consisted solely of the three of them in the bed. She noticed the flickering candle and whispered words of love between Leyota and Jorgarn. Then she felt first Jorgarn arise and then Leyota. She felt gentle hands on the long scar on her thigh – the thigh where her friends had mated so recently.

Leyota kissed the scar gently. Then Jorgarn did the same. Leyota embraced Bralan gently and kissed her on the cheek.

"We need to change the bedding," she whispered. "Jorgarn has gone to get us a warm cloth and clean covers. You need to arise so we can flip our bedding over. I think we made quite a mess."

Bralan felt the wetness beneath her rear and giggled, the spell she was under broken. She felt Leyota's nipples against her arm and her mind flashed back to the feeling she had so recently discovered but for only a moment.

"I think we can get it turned," Bralan said.

"Wait for the cloth," Leyota replied. "Every night after we couple, Jorgarn brings a warm cloth and washes the sweat from my body."

"You couple every night?" Bralan asked somewhat incredulously. She could not imagine this much intensity on a nightly basis.

"Every night but my egg time," Leyota said softly. "Not always like this. Most nights, it is gentle and tender. Last night, for instance, we coupled twice and I don't think our lips parted for more than a moment. But knowing you were here, in the house at first and then in the bed, excited me. I was even more passionate than I usually am. I hope you are not ashamed of what we did, I am not."

"I am a little embarrassed," Bralan said. "I am, uh, well I've never done anything like this before."

"I know and it is not always like this," Leyota said. "The first night I was with Jorgarn, I was frantic to get his member inside of me. I practically ripped our clothes off. Thankfully, he was gentle and loving for our first time. I have heard so many women tell of how painful and degrading their first coupling was. I can tell you that mine was neither. There was some discomfort but Jorgarn took his time. He used his mouth on me like I used mine on you to make sure I was ready. Then he entered me slowly and waited until I became accustomed to his size before he went farther. The whole time he was kissing me and stroking my skin. It was a wonderful experience, one I am glad you will have, too."

Bralan lowered her eyes, unsure of how to respond. Jorgarn, who had been listening to the conversation, chose that moment to enter. He brought two warm clothes and a pitcher of cold water and three cups with him.

"See, what a thoughtful lover we share," Leyota cooed as she reclined on the bed. "You should do the same, Bralan."

The woman thought for a moment before taking a spot beside her friend.

"Attend to Bralan first tonight, love," Leyota said. "It will take less time and she is not as accustomed to the drying fluids as I am."

She laughed softly and watched as Jorgarn washed Bralan's face, chest, and legs. He hesitated when he reached her soft, blonde lower hair.

"Would you prefer to do this yourself?" he asked softly.

"No, this feels wonderful, thank you," Bralan replied. She gasped slightly when Jorgarn slid the still warm cloth between her thighs and gently washed her flower. She rolled to her side when he finished and put her head on Leyota's shoulder.

"Could you attend to my bottom, too?" she asked. "I am afraid it was as wet as my middle."

Jorgarn cleaned the now dry crust from Bralan's rear and she rolled to her back once more. He moved to the opposite side of the bed to attend to Leyota. As always, she purred when she felt the warmth on her face and breasts. When he reached her middle, he saw that her lower hair matted with their combined secretions.

"I need to get a fresh cloth," he said. "I'll return shortly. Would you like a cup of water before I go?"

The women each declined. He saw their forms, bathed in moonlight through the window. Tall, tanned Bralan with her small, delicate breasts that barely stuck out from her chest; her thin hips and long legs. The hair at the junction was blonde, almost white. He could see the lips of her flower were thin but the button at the top was bigger than Leyota's.

Leyota rested beside her, smaller in stature but filled with womanly curves. Her breasts were not udders; they did not sag or droop. Yet they appeared even larger than they were because she was so tiny. Her skin was paler than Bralan's even though he knew it saw more sunlight. His eyes took in her legs, strong and toned. He noticed her feet were more than half a foot further from the end of the bed than Bralan's. The hair between her legs was black as a raven and the flower beneath was rounder, more pronounced.

He returned quickly and completed his ministrations much to Leyota's obvious delight. She took his hand gently when he finished.

"You are loved," she murmured.

"As are you," he replied.

"And as are you, Bralan," Leyota said. "You are loved, too."

"I feel loved," Bralan answered. "Maybe for the first time, I understand what it is like to feel loved."

They stripped the soaked bedding and set it aside before turning the straw-filled mattress over and redressing the bed.

"I hope you will sleep with us tonight," Leyota said. "I don't think it will be the last time the three of us awake together but I hope tomorrow will be the first."

"Are you certain the bed is large enough?" Bralan wondered. She truly wanted to spend the night next to them.

"Well, we'll have to be close together," Leyota replied with a lifted eyebrow. "Does that pose a problem for you?"

"No," Bralan answered with a similar expression. "I suppose night clothing might take up too much room. Perhaps we should go without, purely in the interest of room."

"And what if our mate gets frisky in the night?" Leyota wondered.

"Well, it is a risk, I suppose," Bralan said, suppressing a laugh. "But ... I heard you mention you plan to take him once more in the morning."

"Then you also heard other things," Leyota said as her tongue peeked unconsciously through her lips.

"I do suppose the time will come when I will consent to taking that thing into my mouth," Bralan chuckled, "but if he is to find his way into any rear tunnels, I believe it shall be yours. Have you done that before?"

Leyota shrugged slightly.

"We have from time to time," she answered. "We both prefer it elsewhere, but if there is no other option, I could grow to like it. I enjoyed what you did to me."

Her eyes narrowed and a smile crept across her lips as she took a spot on Jorgarn's shoulder and patted the other for Bralan.

"I do wonder where you learned to do that, however," Leyota asked. "In fact, you seem to know many things I suspected you would not."

Jorgarn felt the heat of Bralan's blush on his shoulder.

"There is no need for anyone to spill their secrets tonight," he said gently as he wrapped his arm tightly around Bralan.

"He already protects you," Leyota said warmly. There was no trace of jealousy or anger in her voice.

"He always has," Bralan replied. "He has always put himself between both of us and anyone who would harm us. He has always respected me – and you, Leyota. It is no surprise we both love him."

"No, it was no surprise to me," Leyota admitted. "And it is why I have always suspected that neither of us could ever claim him as our own. It is why I didn't even try. Now, although Jorgarn says you need not spill all your secrets, I do want to know that one."

Bralan smiled from her perch on Jorgarn's chest. Her face was only a few inches from Leyota's and she could see the glint in her friend's eye.

"Well, I was attached to the Imperial Guard for almost two years," she said airily. "There were three or four of the woman there who enjoyed that sort of thing."

"You don't mean... ," Leyota said.

"No, I didn't participate – until tonight," Bralan replied. "But I would watch them from time to time when they didn't know I was awake. Once we were at war, we were in closer quarters. I saw many women find pleasure from another woman. I picked up a few ideas. I suppose that is why I was more comfortable with you than with Jorgarn. I think I am still a little scared of that."

Jorgarn unconsciously squeezed Bralan a little tighter.

"We will take our time and wait until you are comfortable with that," he said softly. "If that time never comes, we need never attempt anything."

"The time will come," Bralan said confidently, "but slowly, I think. I enjoyed kissing you and I love the feel of your arms around me and being close to you. I like this portion of intimacy with you very much."

She gently put her hand on his semi-erect member.

"But this frightens a bit," she said with a laugh as she removed her hand.

"It doesn't frighten me," Leyota announced. She moved her head beneath the coverlet and placed a loud kiss on its tip. For good measure, she sucked as much of it into her mouth as she could get. When her head reappeared, she carried a sly smile on her lips. "In fact, I am not scared of it at all."

"Brazen," Bralan said with a laugh. "You are absolutely brazen. You are doing your best to seduce a naïve virgin with your shamelessness. If only I had a Knight to protect me."

Leyota offered a mock pout.

"Just as well then," she said as she shifted closer to Jorgarn. "If he should awake in the middle of the night, you can feel free to point his pole toward me. I am no novice. I can make him squirt his seed with my hand, my mouth, my rear or my flower."

"Perhaps I will use my hand to point his pole toward your rear," Bralan joked. "I doubt you would enjoy waking up with that lodged firmly in your bowels."

"Most likely not," Leyota laughed. "But any of the other places would be fine. I have awoken many a morning and managed to get part of him inside me before he caught on. I would make him think he accosted me during the night and I was only accepting of it because it was my wifely duty. Although, I guess he caught on when he would awaken with it in my mouth. But I am certain it was the third or fourth time that happened before he understood."

"Treachery," Jorgarn muttered.

"Oh, I had forgotten you were still here," Leyota said as she tickled his hips. "Oh, Bralan, one thing you must know but should keep secret. He is ticklish right here."

Jorgarn jumped as Leyota's fingers dig into his midsection.

"It helps in keeping him in line," Leyota laughed. "He really is a fine mate now that he's trained properly. I'm sure you will see things that I didn't have time to correct, but try not to break him."

"Hmm," Bralan replied as she ran her hands down Jorgarn's flank. "Yes, I can see that he is a spirited one. You have done well to break him of that. I will keep him under control and only use the whip when needed."

Jorgarn felt Leyota's head bob on his chest in agreement.

"That might be a problem," she said. "I keep him drained; that lessens his spirit greatly. If you don't feel up to him, I'm sure you can find some fat, ugly serving wench to take him through his paces. Don't let a pretty one near him. He tends to get protective of the pretty ones. Perhaps the medic, Trinil, would offer her services."

"Enough," Jorgarn whispered. "If you continue this conversation, I will not harden for a month."

"Well, if I didn't have plans for this in the morning, I would say that is a good thing," Leyota said. "Perhaps we can delay it until afterward."

Bralan laughed.

"I also wouldn't want him coming back to my chamber smelling of mudroot," she said. "I'm certain Trinil's flower is coated with it."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



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Chapter 40


The house was quiet the following morning. The three lovers slept soundly, and as promised, Leyota coaxed another helping of seed into her woman's tunnel while Bralan bathed.

"I will bring your child with me to Emertland," she whispered into Jorgarn's ear as she cuddled next to him. "This is supposed to be my egg time, right now. I have not had it in two months. When I return, I will be almost ready to birth your child. I wish I could stay and give Freeland its first infant but I fear there is no time."

Jorgarn sat up and looked at Leyota, shock written on his face.

"A child!" he said. "You are with child? Leyota, you should have told me! I would have been gentler with you. I would have gotten you a carriage so you didn't need to ride a horse to the Capital. Why didn't you say something?"

"I just did," she answered with the smile that always eased Jorgarn's mind. "I wanted to be certain before I said something. I knew you would react this way and I didn't want you to force me to stay in bed as if I were an invalid. Millions of babies have been born under the Creator. I'm certain millions of fathers have worried about their wives and millions of wives have grown weary of their husbands' fretting. I debated with myself if I should tell you before you leave. However, I knew I must. It would never do for me to arrive in Emertland with a newborn and you having no idea where it came from."

"I know where they come from," Jorgarn said, peeved at the possibility that Leyota considered not telling him and worried about leaving her behind.

"Yes, I know," Leyota said soothingly. "Chicote will look out for me – as will the others, I'm certain. You need not worry because you will have a dozen people up here worrying for you."

"And that is supposed to stop me?" Jorgarn asked. He never would have agreed to accompany Bralan if he had known Leyota was with child – a fact Leyota knew all too well.

"It is supposed to ease your concern but not stop it altogether," she said. "Now, my mother resides in the castle. You saw her during the few days you were there. Do you recall her? She was the one hugging Chicote and crying endlessly."

Jorgarn was confused but nodded that he would recognize Lady Renoit.

"She, Bralan and Eslada are the only three to know of my condition," she said firmly. "They are the only ones in Emertland who can know that I am your wife and that you are the father of my child. Everyone else must simply be left to wonder."

"Even Landor and Torbert?" Jorgarn asked.

"For now," Leyota said. "They have been harmed greatly by the scandal Denae wrought. They will never consider Bralan if they believe that a hint of dishonor might attach itself to her. In time, we will tell them the truth but after she is firmly ensconced. For now, I would prefer you do not mention me around them. You might tell them that I elected to stay in Freeland but it is not their concern. They are not my father, nor are they yours. They will understand why I've stayed once the Freeland militia arrives."

"I will ask again, 'Who are you?'" Jorgarn wondered.

"Dear, who do you supposed kept your household running during your absence?" she replied. "Who do you suppose kept Denae's deceit hidden for so long – not out of any great respect for her but because of my respect for her position and my love for you? I truly regret that I was not the one to break the news to you. I know the way you found out caused great anguish not only to you but to those who care about you and the legions who look up to you. Torbert knows of my spy. I have kept him apprised of what is happening through letters to my mother. I tell you this only because I will not write to you while you are away. I cannot. I didn't want you to hear of my mother receiving correspondence from me and think I did not care for you any longer. My mother knows I've married but she does not know to whom. I will leave that to you and Bralan to announce to her."

Jorgarn was shaking his head, still unsure how his wife had become so adept at hiding things.

"This spy, who is she?" Jorgarn asked.

"I can't tell you," Leyota replied.

"Cannot or will not?" Jorgarn clarified.

"Fine; I will not!" Leyota answered. "She is a woman I befriended while you were at war. She found herself on hard times and I helped. Now she is employed as a nanny in Denae's household. She is privy to much and she sends what she knows to me."

"And you trust her?" Jorgarn wondered. "Do you not think she might be swayed by the prospect of becoming surrogate mother to a King?"

Leyota laughed aloud.

"She understands Denae very well," she said. "I asked the woman to come with us, here. She was going to come a few months ago but then she was offered the spot with Denae. She took it so she could provide information to me. It is through her that I have learned much of the doings in Emertland's border regions. All of her information has proven worthwhile. She is the one, even, who informed me that Bralan was almost assured of being named Heiress. Let's just say Denae was unhappy with the choice."

She looked up into Jorgarn's brown eyes.

"She still cares about you," Leyota said. "Denae, I mean. She does not accept that you are gone to her forever. She plots with my spy to find ways to get you to return to her. Beware of that."

Jorgarn snickered.

"Let me see if I understand this," he posed. "I have the prospect of having not one but two wives that I would trust with my life, the prospect of raising a family with two wonderful women who are as much my friends as my lovers or of wondering where my wife is and who she is with all the while I am caring for her illegitimate child. I wonder which way I will lean."

"People grow from their mistakes, Jorgarn," Leyota pointed out. "Should you meet Denae again, you might not recognize her. You spent two years in her company without seeing her for who she was. Do not forget that."

"Even if I forget that, I will not forget you," Jorgarn replied.

"Nor me," Bralan said from the doorway. She had not bothered to put on clothing after her bath. Jorgarn got his first look at her body in sunlight. He was impressed. She had obviously maintained her workouts. Her muscles were lean and strong. There was little curve to her body but she was still womanly.

"Nor you," Jorgarn said. "You look lovely in that outfit."

Bralan glanced down at her nakedness.

"This old thing?" she asked with a wave of her hand. "I've had it for years. But I must admit, seeing you look at it that way has given me a new appreciation for it."

The pair on the bed laughed. Jorgarn recognized that Leyota and Bralan complimented each other beautifully. Not only did they look completely different but their personalities were also very different. Leyota was serious and outspoken. Bralan was funny and subtle. They would make a good team.

"I just told Jorgarn and now I will fill you in," Leyota said, returning to business. "No one in Emertland must know of my relationship with Jorgarn. You can tell my mother once you arrive at the castle. Of course, you and Eslada know and I'm certain that Merg told Drosset. Nevertheless, we must keep any hint of scandal from you. Do we agree upon that?"

"So it won't be scandalous if the Heiress spends every night with her Knight and her Prime Attendant?" Bralan asked with a wry smile.

"It will not be so long as we are discrete about it," Leyota said. "If we mate in the public square at high noon, yes. Remember, your Knight will be your husband – in time. If you appoint me to your staff, my chamber might be just off yours. No one will know we are all together unless I slip my tongue in your mouth at dinner."

Bralan tilted her head as if she were considering the possibility.

"Well, during private dinners perhaps that would be interesting," she said. "But I can see where it might cause an issue at State Functions. So, yes, we will keep my husband's first wife to ourselves. What else?"

"I am pregnant," Leyota said matter-of-factly. "That also must remain a secret, even once I arrive. No one can know for many years that Jorgarn is the father. The child will know, and my mother. But it must be kept quiet."

Bralan ran naked into the room and hugged Leyota tightly.

"You're pregnant!" she said as she touched her friend's stomach. "That is wonderful! Wait ... we can't tell anyone? Why not? There will be no scandal if my husband has a child with another woman. No, this will not do. I will not have your son or daughter being scorned as a bastard. Hear me, Leyota. I do not care if I become Queen if it means causing harm to you or your children. We will maintain the secret until you arrive but we need to find a way for all of our children to understand that they are loved and welcomed. I will not have the oldest of them feeling that he or she is less than the others. We both know how that feels and it will not happen in my family. I will marry Stenweed before I allow that to occur! Now, do we agree or do I go back to Emertland alone?"

Leyota felt a tear welling in her eye but she nodded.

"I'm glad you said that, Bralan," Jorgarn added. "I feel the same way. Leyota gets a little headstrong from time to time. It generally takes me a month or so to get her to see my wisdom."

Leyota snorted.

"Wisdom?" she asked with a laugh. "'Don't set your pants on fire. It hurts!' That is the quality of wisdom he has to pass along to his children, Bralan. He told that to Merg once."

"It is good advice no matter how many times you hear it," Jorgarn protested, "and there is more to the story than that."

"I've seen Jorgarn with Merg and with my brother," Bralan said. "Even with you when you first arrived at the castle, Leyota. He will be a good father."

Jorgarn flushed slightly at the praise.

"He will be," Leyota said as she rubbed his arm gently. "Now, we have one more problem but I think I have it fixed. Jorgarn, you are not eligible to be Bralan's Knight, let alone her husband."

"Oh, yes," Jorgarn said as he rubbed his temple. "You're right. I have no land in Emertland and I have no coin to purchase any. I ceded that property back to Landor."

"Eslada will cede you property in Longview," Bralan pointed out.

"She will not need to," Leyota replied. "Jorgarn, I wrote to your father. He has agreed to appoint you – in name only – as heir to the Elmwood Estate. That is what the lower region of Emertland is known as. Your cousin, Yatil, will assume the Lordship but it will serve the purpose of getting you certified. I don't believe either Landor or Torbert will protest but there are nobility who might."

"You wrote to my father!" Jorgarn said loudly. "Leyota, what else is there that I do not know?"

She sighed.

"Jorgarn, truly, I wish I had a Konec for everything you do not know," she said with some irritation. "Your father visited Emertland frequently during your absence. He risked a great deal to send his Rangers with you, something you should not forget. He and Yatil spent many weeks at the castle as King Landor's guests. I have met your new stepmother and your stepbrothers. They are all delightful people.

"I wrote to him before we left Emertland to let him know you had arrived in good health. He wrote back and told me if there was ever anything he could do to assist you, I only need ask – because he knew you never would. I told him there might come a time when it was necessary for him to name you his Heir for the space of about a month or two. He discussed it with Yatil and they agreed readily. I had already written the letter to him telling the time had come and I sent it out when I heard Bralan and her family had arrived. I would guess he would receive it about the same time you arrive in Emertland. In any case, I have a letter from him designating you his Heir. I have already packed it in your bags."

Jorgarn took a deep breath to settle his anger.

"Dearest, I do not wish to leave here on bad terms," he said slowly. "So I will refrain from saying the things to you which my brain demands. But, in the future, I will ask that you keep me informed of anything that will affect me. I do not do well with surprises. In fact, I dislike them greatly. Will you please keep that in mind for the future?"

Leyota blushed but nodded.

"I understand why you kept this from me," Jorgarn continued. "But that does not make me any happier that you did. Now, let me hug you and our child one last time before I depart. I do love you ... please never doubt that."

"And I, you," Leyota answered with tears on her cheeks. "And I do not doubt it. I have searched for ways to tell you but I knew you would dig in your heels. I've watched you for so many years, Love. I know how you react. If you are given information by someone you trust, you step back and allow them to proceed. But if you have time to plan you sometimes get in your own way. I do not mean that harshly. I knew if I presented the information to you when the time was right, you would trust that I knew what to do and allow me to do it ... just as you've done. But if I told you beforehand, you would insist upon helping me plan. Honestly, you sometimes lack the patience for planning something as intricate as this."

Bralan burst out laughing.

"She has you there," she said. Jorgarn noticed she had dressed while he was talking to Leyota. "Admit it; you would have insisted your father be left out. He was the best one to help us but your pride would never allow that. The same is true with the spy. I suspect I know who she is. But I will maintain my silence."

Leyota looked at Bralan questioningly.

"I saw you with her several times while I was recovering from my wound in the castle," she said. "You tended to meet in the shadows but those shadows were just outside my window. Anyway, if it works out, no harm."

Leyota pursed her lips but Bralan smiled.

"Sometime when this is over with, we will send Jorgarn for a camping trip with Pernice, Merg and Drosset and I will tell you what conclusions I jumped to," Bralan said with a laugh. "Now, give us both a kiss so we can depart."

Leyota, still unclad, gave her husband and her friend a long hug then kissed Jorgarn passionately.

"I will settle for a little less tongue," Bralan joked. "At least until we are in front of Court."

She leaned forward and kissed Leyota softly on the lips.

"Take care of that little one," she said with raised eyebrows. "He or she might be the future Monarch of Emertland."

"Or a future Councilor of Freeland," Leyota rejoined.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



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Chapter 41


The ride across the countryside was as slow as it had been four years earlier when Pernice and Jorgarn rode in the opposite direction. But each time, they carried the understanding they were riding toward conflict.

They rode on fine horses – a gift to them from Merg and his friends, who had bartered a longbow and a quarrel of arrows for them. Jorgarn couldn't help but smile when he thought of the youth. Merg had grown as much as anyone in his time away from Emertland. He and his industrious comrades were perhaps the wealthiest people in Freeland.

They certainly had the only product worth purchasing from the fledgling nation. But rather than collect the profits for themselves, they shared whatever they had. Merg insisted the Council conduct the bargaining sessions – with the exception of the one that netted him two fine horses – and that 80 percent of everything they received be shared with the general public. The remaining 20 percent was set aside to help them pay for the other children who helped them by gathering fallen wood from unclaimed properties and from the properties of those who had offered him permission – such as those who lived near Jorgarn.

Merg and his friends were somewhat surprised when several landowners expected compensation for the wood. He had tried to explain that the compensation came in other forms – the fact their land was cleared for them at no cost and the fact that the Council provided all necessities for anyone who worked. However, some wanted tangible services directed solely to them. After a discussion with Leyota and Pernice, Merg and his friends directed their efforts elsewhere, leaving the landholders to clear their own properties and find their own means of disposing with the wood, which created a nasty smoky smell when burned.

Fortunately for Merg, although it was the primary reason Jorgarn had selected the land, the area where he lived was filled with the types of tree he needed to use. Jorgarn and his friends – Pernice, Renoit, Fieth, Lippit and Belad – had gone deep into the forests and dragged several fallen trees for the teenagers to use. Their efforts had taken two or three weeks, but it paid great dividends for the entire country. The adults put forth as much effort as the youths in turning the raw wood into serviceable bows, but each of them insisted it was the younger group's project.

Pernice and Jorgarn had been shocked to learn that the third member of Merg's group was a female. They had offered to take the boys into the forest with them overnight. Merg and his friend, Cas, quickly agreed but the third friend, Nelida, was denied permission. Jorgarn offered to speak to the boy's parents to assure them that their son would be safe. It was only then than a laughing Merg told them that Nelida was, in fact, a girl of 13, not a boy.

Both Jorgarn and Pernice instantly wondered if they had ever emptied their bladder in front of the girl, never realizing she wasn't a boy. They joked of it later, but it caused them real consternation at the time.

Merg had been torn about returning with Jorgarn or staying behind for a few months but in the end commerce won out. Merg was the best and quickest at producing a finished bow and his efforts were necessary for the small group to fulfill the commitments they had made. If possible, Jorgarn and Pernice were even prouder of the young man who grew from the boy they adored.

Drosset rode beside the two warriors. He would take his spot in the Noble Guard when they arrived. He was already looking forward to it and he promised to be a fine warrior. He had trained with Merg, Leyota and Fieth during Jorgarn's long absence. Bralan had taken over his training upon his return to Longview.

The two men with long hair and beards created quite a stir at the inn where they stopped for the night. Jorgarn and Pernice offered to sleep in the stable but Eslada insisted they stay close by. It was not until they sat at a table away from the others that Jorgarn expressed what he had been thinking all day.

"Is it only me who finds Leyota's actions troublesome?" he asked. A glance at the table's other occupants gave him the answer – it was only he.

"I don't mean to dredge up old wounds, but I don't see how what she has done is any different from Rayna," he continued. "They both are seeking to influence things behind the curtains. They both think little of using a person's love for them against him or her. They each have hidden their true motives from those affected. Is that not obvious?"

"Ridiculous," Eslada spat. "Those two are nothing alike."

Jorgarn raised his eyebrows in an attempt to get Eslada to expound on her theory. Instead, she sat silently and glared at him.

"It is not a matter of their actions," Pernice said. "I agree, when pointed out as you have done, their actions are similar."

Eslada seemed ready to turn on Pernice but Bralan raised a hand and told him to continue.

"But the motives are entirely different," Pernice said after a thankful nod to Bralan. "Rayna sought influence and power at the expense of others. She was willing to use you, me or Denae to get what she desired but it was always for her benefit. She thought nothing of the benefit others might derive. Leyota's motive is opposite: She is willing to sacrifice what she has long desired for the benefit of her friends and for this country. She will gain nothing from Bralan's ascension; she will only lose from it. She gained nothing from going around your stubbornness to achieve what needed to be achieved; she only lost from it. I am certain she is at home, wondering if she has irrevocably harmed her relationship with you. She will likely worry about that until the next time she sees you – and maybe long afterward. But she saw no other manner of accomplishing this – and I think you agree it needs to be accomplished."

"I do agree," Jorgarn said, "but I would have helped her if she asked."

"No, you wouldn't have!" Eslada said. Bralan nodded from beside her. "You would never have permitted Wenta's help. You would have fought and bucked and obstructed until everything took five times as long to get finished as it did. I know that, Jorgarn. I know that because that is how I would have reacted. You saw by my behavior in the castle that I am not above stubborn pride. I regret that my attitude toward your Knighthood – first almost forcing you to accept it and then interfering in the way you did your duties – helped bring about this crisis. At least I recognize my part in things. I could have stepped back and allowed Bralan to handle Rayna. My pride would not permit that. I wanted to prove to her and Drosset that I would look after them and I handled it badly. I hate to admit it, but I am starting to think Rayna was actually a stabilizing influence on Denae."

"Perhaps she was," Jorgarn said. "I always looked at them like two girls playing dress up: Neither understood fully what their roles truly were and with no one to guide them on the matter, they continued forward with what they thought they should be able to do. I truly think Rayna would have grown into her position in time. She would have come to understand that there was more to being an adviser to the Heiress besides putting your friends in nice, comfortable positions."

Jorgarn shrugged.

"I always liked Rayna," he admitted.

Bralan laughed and rolled her eyes.

"I have come to realize that you like anything with wobblies," she said. "Was he like this in Umbria, Pernice? I know in Salaria, he would look at everything in a skirt."

Pernice glanced downward.

"No, Umbria was entirely different," he said sadly.

"I'm sorry, my friend," Bralan said as she put her hand on his arm. "I did not think. Of course it was different. I hope you'll forgive my insensitivity. I am not usually like that."

"I know you're not and of course I forgive you," Pernice answered. "I have missed Alite greatly over the past months, since..."

His voice trailed off and he gestured to Jorgarn with his head. Bralan nodded her understanding.

"That must have been difficult for you," Bralan said sympathetically.

"It was," Pernice admitted, "but I realized that Jorgarn had found himself in my spot for almost two years, until Alite fell. So I did what he did: I found solace in other things and focused my attention on different matters."

He smiled ruefully.

"I have high hopes upon my return to Emertland," he joked. "I understand there is a dearth of eligible young men since many of them are still in Freeland."

"You might be disappointed," Bralan said. "Many of the young women went with you, too, from what I understand. The capital lost almost half of its population in the last year. Many merchants have moved rather than deal with having few customers. It is costly to live in the capital. Prices rose as the economy slowed. I don't think King Landor understood how much coin the Guard brought into the capital – not just in their purses when they arrived but by purchasing goods and services with their wages, in taxes and in visitors. The situation with Denae created more problems on top of that. Many nobles refused to come to Court. Those who did come did not stay long. They came, discussed their business and departed.

"Court provided many things to the capital. It brought in outsiders and their coin. It allowed King Landor to meet with those he rarely sees to discuss ways to help them and to gauge how his laws are affecting them. It also allowed people to mingle, to feel as though they were a part of something bigger than themselves and their holdings. That was lost and I think Emertland is feeling the effects of it by this talk of rebellion."

"Is the King trying to raise an army?" Pernice asked.

"The problem lies in the fact that he can't afford to pay for one," Bralan answered. "The 200 soldiers who returned a year ago were all paid their back wages. Rather than spending them in Emertland or returning them in taxes on goods, you departed with them. You sailed out on ships and purchased goods from Swar. Then there is the fact that many who generated revenue for the Crown went with you. The miller and blacksmith left. Each of those employed a dozen men – who passed their money back to the Crown in the form of rents and taxes. The former Longview territories have offered men. Tark has sent men to train at the capital. But we're talking 20 or 30 men instead of 200. I believe Emertland would fall to the rebellion if Freeland does not intercede. Jorgarn, does that help explain Leyota's actions better?"

He shrugged.

"She could have told us and we would have returned," Jorgarn prompted.

"No, you wouldn't have," Pernice interrupted. "Or at least I wouldn't have. I am here for one purpose."

He gestured to Bralan.

"If it were anyone else anointed as Heiress, I would not have returned," he said flatly. "I agreed to come because it was Bralan, my friend and fellow warrior, who will ascend. The others will come for the same reason. I believe Freeland would have offered refuge for any who sought it. But I don't believe we would have fought in a war for anything less than one of our own. I feel badly for King Landor and for Sir Torbert. I truly do. But they both sat idly by and let Denae do what she was doing. They did not want to precipitate a confrontation until it proved necessary. What happened to Emertland happened because they allowed it to happen. I do not believe I would have willingly come to their aid."

Eslada pursed her lips and sighed before she spoke.

"There is always a great problem with getting communication from far-off lands," she said. "I fear it was greater this time. The news we did receive was not good. I am certain everyone believed you all had died."

"I am certain that you're wrong," Jorgarn said with a trace of anger in his voice. "There are many who did not accept that. We took 140 people from the capital besides the soldiers. I do not believe for a moment that any of them forsook us. I know for certain that the ones I call my friends did not. There were many who believed in us; It just wasn't the right people."

Pernice nodded furiously.

"I never thought for a minute he would not return!" Drosset said fiercely. "And I knew when Jorgarn came back; Pernice would be at his side. It was mostly the high nobles who wrote them off. Those of us who mattered little never did."

Eslada sighed. The matter had been the source of many arguments between her and her wards. Neither Bralan nor Drosset would hear talk of Jorgarn's death. Eslada believed it was her responsibility to try to prepare them for the news. She knew how much of an affect he had had on their young lives. Drosset had refused to leave the castle. His rationale was solid. Jorgarn was the Knight until another Knight was named. Until that time, he was a member of the Knight's staff and he needed to stay.

Bralan had no reason behind her belief. She simply said that Jorgarn was alive and that was it. Nothing Eslada said could sway her so she stopped trying. She wondered if Jorgarn was punishing her for her lack of faith by refusing to visit or to write to her.

"It is late," Jorgarn said. He could sense tension at the table between the members of the Longview family. "And we have several more hard days of riding. Where do you plan to stop on the morrow?"

"The Fieth residence," Eslada announced. "Saneth has assumed the Ladyship."

"Elobert's father has died?" Jorgarn asked.

"Yes, a month or so ago," Eslada recounted. "I believe his death set back the rebellion by a few months. They were counting upon his coin to help them. Saneth put a stop to that rapidly. Her mother has been sent abroad, although I do not know where. Did Elobert not mention it?"

Jorgarn glanced at Pernice. He hated the fact he had been so caught up in his own life that he might have missed such an event. Elobert held no love for his father but he held his sister in high regard.

"No," Pernice confirmed. "I am unsure if he knows."

"He knows," Eslada said. "I offered my condolences and he laughed. He said that I should save them for someone who was sorry to see the old goat dead – if I could find such a person."

Jorgarn and Pernice were each shaking their heads.

"Is she safe?" Pernice asked. "Lady Saneth, I mean. The ones set upon war might not take kindly to the loss of income."

"She is," Bralan replied. "King Landor has sent guards to all those he deems loyal to Emertland and who could not acquire them themselves. It makes up for the loss of the Renoits among his allies."

Jorgarn's mouth dropped again.

"Leyota's father died?" he asked. "Why did no one mention this to me? Is that why her mother is at the castle?"

He looked at Pernice again, who shook his head.

"Lord Renoit died almost four years ago," Eslada said. "I suppose you were already in Salaria. It was shortly after you left though. Chicote was still at the castle. Riset kicked her mother from the manor and Chicote made arrangements for her to live at the castle. Jorgarn, you were gone for many years. You returned for two or three weeks and left again. There is much different from what you remember."

"Well, I believe the death of one's parent might deserve a mention," he said. "Leyota didn't tell me. Chicote never mentioned it. Elobert found it not newsworthy. I believe I would at least mention in passing if my father died. Pernice, is your family well? I hate to have to ask but I suppose I should."

"My family is well, thank you," Pernice said with a smile. "Jor, I'm not certain I have heard you mention your father more than a dozen times in all the years I've known you. Even when he sent the Rangers to assist us, you referred to him as Lord Longview. Chicote's father was gone a year before he saw us. Elobert felt nothing but disdain for his father and mother. I don't think it was anything more than that."

"Well, you forget I am married to Chicote's sister and it never came up," Jorgarn pointed out. "She mentioned that her mother started to point out eligible suitors for her and that she lived in the castle now – which I learned this morning, by the way – but nothing else."

"Shhh!" Pernice said quietly. "You forget, no one might recognize us but we are sitting with the Heroine of Gobrik and the next Heiress to the Crown."

Bralan laughed.

"I will just tell them you are my mercenaries," she said. "But he is right, we need to keep your names silent. It would never do for word to reach our enemies of what Leyota has in store for them."

Jorgarn again shook his head. The conversation had come full circle and, although his friends' arguments made sense, he still believed Leyota should have been more forthright about what she expected him to do.

"I'm going to bed," he said.

-------

It was four weeks later when the carriage carrying Bralan, Eslada and Saneth Fieth arrived at Emertland's capital. The trek had been good for Jorgarn: It allowed him to sort through his feelings about his life in Emertland and the life he had in Freeland.

His thoughts ranged to Leyota frequently. He missed her and he worried about her safety and the health of their unborn child. Jorgarn gradually came to accept the reasons behind her secrecy and that only added to his displeasure at leaving her behind.

The quintet spent three nights at Fieth Manor – perhaps the best three nights of the entire journey. Saneth was bearing up well under the pressure to provide the funds her father promised to an association of northern landholders. Still, she elected to join the group on its trip the capital rather than stay behind with only her trio of guards to protect her. For the first few days, she and Bralan rode alongside Jorgarn, Pernice and Drosset, leaving a peeved Eslada alone inside the carriage. Finally they relented and rode the last half of the journey inside.

Jorgarn didn't expect accolades when he arrived at the capital. He knew there were hard feelings about his departure and he hoped others understood that he was nursing hard feelings too. Torbert greeted Jorgarn and Pernice like old friends and many of the guardsmen who remained behind expressed happiness to see them return. But the outward hostility shown by King Landor caught everyone on their heels.

At first, the King was happy enough simply to ignore Jorgarn's presence during meetings and negotiations. Jorgarn even allowed him a few veiled shots at his character. When Landor's venom spilled over to Bralan and Pernice, Jorgarn spoke up.

"Please empty the room," he said angrily after Landor made a scathing remark directed toward Pernice. "Torbert, you better stay; you might be needed."

Landor's displeasure was evident when everyone in the room obeyed Jorgarn's directions without hesitation.

"Let's get this out in the open," Jorgarn said. "I know you're angry. I understand that and I appreciate it. I would be angry too if I had proven that I couldn't protect myself and I had to rely upon a foreign army to ensure my safety."

"A foreign army that I trained!" Landor said.

"You?" Jorgarn replied with a laugh. "You had your chance to train your Heir and we see how that worked. Perhaps your brother can lay claim to training them. But let's be honest, I trained them. I trained them and I took them and I won a war with them."

"And then your pride was hurt and you stole them away," Landor rebuked.

He was surprised when Jorgarn nodded.

"I had two options I considered," he said. "I believe you would like this one better than the other."

"The other?" Landor asked.

"I could have killed her," Jorgarn said simply. "I could have waited – a day, a week or a year – and caught her with a stalk in her mouth and slain her. The Tribunal would have ruled it justified. There is precedent. Then I would have been absolved of any responsibility to you or to this country. Instead, I chose to vacate it. I asked only one person to accompany me – Pernice. The others came because they saw what you had become."

"Understand something," he continued, "the only hope you have of restoring this country lies in Bralan. Everyone knows it. I am willing to head back to Freeland on the same route I came to Emertland, but if I go, I will wager than Bralan will leave with me. And if I go, you will not have the Freeland militia to stand between you and the army that is massing within your borders. So I am the only hope for your country and the only hope you have for survival. Don't allow your guilt to lead you to an action you will regret – but not for long because your life will be shortened considerably."

"Guilt?" Landor raged. "What do I have to feel guilty about?"

Jorgarn tilted his head back and laughed.

"I saw your face when I insisted a morality clause be inserted in the marriage agreement," Jorgarn said. "I know it rankled you and the fact that it irked you so is what made me insist upon it being included. I have no doubt that my feet were not yet on the ship when you pulled your daughter aside and encouraged her to have one or two small dalliances when I was away. But your child is too stupid and too arrogant to understand discretion. Or perhaps she honestly believed it when you told her people thought more highly of her than they did of me, so she could get away with it. Who knows what she thinks? Suddenly, everyone knew about Denae's dishonorable actions and before you could intervene, it was evident that I would find out.

"I'm also positive Torbert told you what the outcome of that would be. Ah, a glance at his face confirms it. So you knew I would depart or slay the both of you. I'm positive that Torbert also told you what would happen to your army when I left. I doubt he suspected so many would leave but he knew the core of the Guard staff would accompany me wherever I went. That is because they respect me, Landor. They followed the person they respected and left behind the family who had lost their respect, no offense meant, Sir Torbert.

"But once you understood the ramifications of your ill-gotten spawn's actions, you began to hope that maybe I would never come back. You began to hope that the rumors from Umbria were true. You would prefer to see 400 of your loyal subjects dead than to admit that you raised your daughter to be no different from the common tavern wench. Your pride gets hurt and you send men and women to their deaths. Mine is injured and I leave to save your child's life and you make me the villain. I am fine with that ... treat me however you wish. I care not what you think of me and I'm certain that you do not wish to hear what I think of you. But if I stay, you will treat those who returned with me with respect. That, oh mighty Landor, is not a suggestion you can disregard."

Landor's face had reddened as Jorgarn spoke. His temper boiled over and he slammed his hands on his desk and jumped to his feet.

"I am your King!" he screamed.

Jorgarn's hands slapped the arms of his seat as he rose, face mottled with rage.

"You are not my king!" he screamed back. "I have no king! I am a loyal citizen of Freeland and I will remain one until I die. Now if you want me to leave, say the word: I'll go without a backward glance at your sorry country. You can continue to pretend that all your woes are my fault. You might even be able to convince a couple of the stupider lords that it is. Or you can act like a man and admit you're in a situation of your own making that you can't get out of without help. You damned sure will not speak to these fine people who have come down here for the sole purpose of rescuing you as though you are doing them a favor."

Torbert had remained placid during the entire argument. He knew that Jorgarn would not actually harm Landor – and he also knew he couldn't stop Jorgarn if he chose to. It was only when the two men stood, leaning over Landor's desk with their faces inches apart that he spoke.

"He's right, Landor," Torbert said. For a moment it looked as though the King might turn on his brother. "I am not certain he is correct about your actions regarding Denae though it would not surprise me. But he is absolutely correct in stating that we will not survive long if Freeland does not come to our aid. I am no happier about that fact than you are, but I still recognize it as a fact. Another fact that needs consideration is that we cannot afford to have Freeland as an enemy. I would wager that we cannot afford to have the two Freeland citizens who are in the castle as our enemy. If they wanted to take control of Emertland this day, I am not sure the entirety of the Guard could stop them. I am also unsure of how many of our remaining Guards might just join their side.

"I believe we can agree that Denae's behavior was disgraceful. We all can agree that it was known in the castle and we knew how Jorgarn would react. We didn't foresee it causing such grave harm to Emertland but it has. The only thing we need discuss is if Bralan is willing to be next in line for the Crown. She has made it clear that Jorgarn will be a major part of her staff if she accepts.

"Landor, the fact that we have to negotiate should indicate the state we're in. It is a sad testament as to what has transpired that it is no longer seen as an honor to follow you on the throne. Denae's actions and the loss of respect it precipitated is the root of most of our problems, that also cannot be denied. So I suppose the real question is if we can all agree to work together for the benefit of Emertland or if we're going to yell and scream and goad each other until we get into a fight amongst ourselves. Landor, if you wish to remain King, Bralan and Jorgarn are the only solution I can come up with."

"He could summon Riset Renoit," Jorgarn supplied, his face still red and his eyes narrow. "Then he wouldn't have to pay for anything more than a food taster and a guard to sit outside his door. Even as empty as your coffers are, you can probably afford that – though the second and third food taster might prove costly."

"Enough, Jorgarn," Torbert said softly. "Your point is made. Now, can we resume our discussions?"

"As soon as he apologizes to Pernice," Jorgarn said. "If an apology and a pledge to treat him with respect are not forthcoming, I see nothing further to discuss."

"Fine!" Landor said as he sat down heavily in his chair. "I will apologize to him. What I said was inexcusable."

He shook his head sadly and cursed Denae under his breath again. Jorgarn arose and opened the door to admit Bralan, Eslada and Pernice again. Bralan looked almost frightened of Jorgarn when she stepped past. Eslada had focused her gaze on Landor but Pernice clasped Jorgarn's wrist and nodded slightly.

"Before we begin anew, I want to apologize to each of you," Landor said when everyone was seated. "This situation has gnawed at me and I failed to understand the reality of it. Jorgarn has pointed it out to me and, although I dislike it, I accept it. Pernice, my remarks were uncalled for. I do appreciate that you have returned to help us."

"Let me frank, King Landor," Pernice said. "I did not come to help you. I came to ensure Bralan's safety. That remains my sole purpose in returning. The fact that you will see benefit from it was never my intention. So you owe me no apology."

Landor bit his lip but Torbert spoke again.

"Well, now that we understand one another, I think we should ask Bralan if she has anything else we need to consider besides how she comprises her staff," Torbert said.

"No, Sir Torbert," Bralan said sweetly. "That was my only concern. And, Your Majesty, I have come here to help you in any way I can. I do not wish to be Queen nor have I ever expected to be Queen. I am here because I respect your wisdom and you and Sir Torbert seem to think that I can help Emertland. If you believe it would be best for me to return to the Guards, I shall. If you believe it best that I return to Longview, I shall. And, so long as I can choose who I wish to protect me, I will accept the designation of Heiress if you believe it for the best."

Landor lowered his head and smiled to himself before he rubbed his tired eyes.

"Do you wish to deed Crown property back to Master Longview so he is eligible to return to the Knighthood?" he asked.

Torbert cleared his throat.

"Sir Jorgarn is still the Knight Protector to the Heiress," he pointed out. "None has been named in his place. It is customary that the incoming designee be allowed to appoint her own Knight in the rare cases when the designation has been changed. However, and this is 500 years of precedent, it must be with the present Knight's consent. His role does not end if there is a vacancy in the designation. Just as I will be Knight until King Landor's successor assumes the throne, Sir Jorgarn is the Knight Protector until Bralan names someone else and he agrees to step aside."

"This entire scene could have been avoided if you had mentioned this earlier," Landor said as he eyed his brother.

Torbert smiled.

"It could have been postponed but not avoided," he replied. "You and Jorgarn each have grievances toward the other. Those will not be worked out quickly, if ever, but you both needed to hear what the other had to say. Landor, you especially needed to hear what Jorgarn said. We created this chaos. Jorgarn had not made an internal decision for almost three years when this muddle came to light. But, like you, I chose to ignore it and hoped and prayed that Jorgarn would ignore it also. I hoped that he would simply annul the betrothal and remain as Knight. I am not certain he wouldn't have done just that if Denae had not gone as far as she did.

"Denae cannot be a consideration. We must focus on Bralan. And, Landor, like it or not, the fact that Jorgarn and Pernice have returned will be viewed as a positive step by almost the entire country. We lost a great deal of prestige when they left. I believe your advisers have pointed out many times that very few of your subjects find fault in Jorgarn's actions, particularly once the truth came to light."

Landor nodded grudgingly. His advisers had been the ones to push him into dismissing Denae, the ones who told him the nation would continue to founder until faith in the monarchy was restored. He hated to admit that they had been correct: Just the whisper that Bralan was being considered as his heir had helped. His advisers had not been happy that Jorgarn had returned, particularly since it would place a foreigner with a grudge against the nobles in a position of considerable influence.

Landor thought that Bralan had always seemed such a sensible young woman: She was smart enough to stay above the fray when Eslada went on a rampage against Denae and Rayna; she had served honorably in the Guard and acquitted herself well in combat; she had not pointed out Denae's indiscretions as others in the castle had.

She was a perfect choice to follow him and the perfect face for Emertland to rally around.

All in all, Landor decided he could put up with Jorgarn to ensure the survival of Emertland.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 42


Ranita Renoit, the mother of Leyota, Chicote and Riset, had lamented for the previous three years about the way people behaved. She was from a different generation, one raised to respect authority and never question it. She was a firm monarchist. She believed, as a few did, that the King ruled by a right given by the Creator. His word was law and his actions infallible. The same held true for his progeny ... thus her dislike for Jorgarn.

It was bad enough that he had humiliated Denae by advertising the peccadilloes which led to her ousting as heiress. He had then run off and left the King in dire straits. It was worsened by the fact he took her favorite children with him. She could not understand how he had managed to corrupt them so thoroughly. It was bad enough that Riset had turned out to be such an embarrassment. There was even a rumor that she supported the uprising that appeared to be brewing.

Ranita was disappointed to learn that the Errant Knight (as she privately referred to Jorgarn) had returned. She was mortified when he requested a private meeting with her. She lacked the resolve to be truly rude to the man: He was, after all, powerful and dangerous. But her discourtesy stopped just shy of curtness.

Jorgarn had intended to tell the former Lady Renoit about his love for her daughter and that the woman's first grandchild would arrive soon – either with Leyota or shortly afterward. Instead he found himself on the defensive from the outset.

"If you have come to rally my support for the new Heiress, you've wasted your time," were the first words Ranita spoke – before Jorgarn had even managed to clear the doorway.

"Uh, no," Jorgarn said, "that is not the purpose of this visit. It is a social call."

Jorgarn had met Ranita only a few times. Both Leyota and Chicote spoke highly of their parents, so Jorgarn was put off by her antagonism – which he recognized when she did not offer him a seat and then frowned at his answer.

"I see no reason to socialize with the man who stole my children from me," she said.

Jorgarn couldn't help but roll his eyes.

"For the record, I will state – again – that I compelled no one to come with me," Jorgarn stated. "I invited no one, nor did I expect or anticipate the eagerness that those who followed me had to leave here. Your daughter and son were among the most insistent that they were going. I would have preferred that Leyota stay here, actually. But I also knew better than to try to change her mind when she had reached a decision about something. She is doing extremely well in Freeland."

"I know how well she is doing," Ranita interrupted. "I exchange letters with her frequently. Now, why are you here?"

Jorgarn came to a quick decision.

"I promised your son and daughter that I would look in on you when I arrived," Jorgarn lied. "Since you were away, this is the first chance I have had. I hope you are doing well, and if I can be of service to you, you need but ask."

"I'll keep that in mind," Ranita said as she arose. "I hope you have a good day."

Jorgarn accepted his obvious dismissal and left with a slight nod. He chuckled to himself when he left the sitting room. At least Eslada liked him, he thought ruefully.

Bralan seemed surprised to see him return so quickly. She looked at him questioningly when we walked into her study and sat down.

"You know that I have been unhappy with the information that Leyota failed to impart to me," Jorgarn stated. "Well, I have found one other slight detail she has left out."

Bralan had returned to her reading but glanced up to show Jorgarn she was listening.

"Her mother despises me," he said with a laugh. "I mean, absolute unadulterated abhorrence!"

Bralan frowned and marked her place in the records she was perusing.

"So she didn't take the news well?" she asked.

"I didn't tell her," Jorgarn admitted. "I told her I promised Chicote and Leyota that I would look in on her. I got the impression from her children that she takes Landor's side on just about every issue. It is my opinion that Riset turned out like she did because of that. But I didn't want to risk her running to the King in an attempt to discredit you. Although you and I have made no outward display – or even a covert display – of what is in store, I believe that the King might use that information as a reason to send me away."

Bralan scoffed.

"I believe he is well aware of the fact that I am the one who chooses if you stay or go," she answered smugly. "Actually, it is a nice feeling!"

She smiled and shook her head.

"Eslada made certain that people with large mouths knew of Landor's visit to Longview," she said. "That was for the sole purpose of taking this issue out of his hands. If I abdicate – and tell people it is because he refused to allow you to serve me..."

She giggled.

"Or service me, as the case may become," she added with a wide smile, "Then the monarchy is on its last legs. The King needs to come to the understanding, as I have and as I'm sure Denae has, that he rules only because the people allow it. The uprising in the north has its roots in Denae's follies but it has gained followers because people are disenchanted by the way it was handled – not only by Landor but by Denae and even by you."

"You have a small group, people like Leyota's mother, who believe the Royal Family should be allowed to rape and pillage and behave like boors simply because they are the Royal Family. Those people are not likely to join the unrest because it will mean going against their sitting monarch but they are none too happy about the King's daughter being sent away and they are none too happy about you returning to assist me. If the insurgency's goal was to simply oust me and reinstate Denae, those people would join. However since its stated goal is to overthrow Landor and insert Denae on the throne, they are in a quandary.

"They are certain Denae is the one who should follow Landor but they are not certain that it should be after having him killed. They would be much happier if the rebellion waited for him to die naturally, then killed me so Denae could take her rightful, Creator-given spot. The core of the group, however, is comprised of people who have lost influence and wealth under Landor's rule. He has done much to aid the commoners during his reign; those gains have come at the expense of some of the larger Lordships. My first family, the Symingtons, and the Fieths are prime examples of families whose fortunes have suffered during Landor's tenure. The Renoits sustained large losses, too, but they took it stoically. Because the King decreed it, it must be a good thing."

She shrugged.

"So those who have lost influence have banded together," Bralan continued. "They found kindred souls in the displaced families of Salaria, Gobrik and Vecad, if Leyota's information is correct. I believe she is right and it makes sense. They used Denae's dismissal and the expulsion of her son from the castle as a rallying point but it is all about people regaining the power they feel they are due."

Jorgarn paused before answering to comprise his thoughts.

"I realize there is more to this than simply Denae, though," he said. "Most of what you tell me makes sense except for one thing – Denae believes in what her father has accomplished. There was much about her thinking I was unaware of, I will admit that, but she believed in her father's goal of limiting the nobility and providing more influence to the commoner. She would have continued that."

"She likely would not live long enough to continue it on any great scale," Bralan told him. "She is a figurehead – a rallying point. She will never wield any great power if she ever became Queen. The rebellion will see to that. She will be crowned then in a month she will die mysteriously but only after stating that her only child is to succeed her. Then Troch and his allies can rule as the child's regent until he is of age and likely much longer. This traces back to well before you arrived in Emertland. Maybe to before you arrived under Creation. Our system here needs modification. Anyone who has watched a Lord or Lady abuse his or her position understands that, so no one understands it more than I. While it is new for the nobility to find displeasure with the Monarch, it is not so new for the commoner to be angered by the nobility."

"Which is interesting, I'll admit," Jorgarn said, "but it really has nothing to do with Leyota's mother disliking me."

Bralan laughed and shook her head.

"Yes, I suppose I got a bit sidetracked," she answered. "Ranita Renoit dislikes you because her children chose to leave her and go with you. She dislikes you because you refused to bow and scrape to Denae and because you still refuse to bow and scrape to King Landor."

More rich laughter emanated from Bralan's throat.

"I suppose I should have expected her reaction," she said. "She has been overheard referring to me as the Pretender to the Throne and to you as my Knight Errant. We will have to make sure we reach Leyota first with the news."

"Or maybe not," Jorgarn said with a smile. "Perhaps we should leave Leyota in the dark as she left me. Although we definitely want to be within earshot when Leyota imparts the good news about whom she married and who fathered her child."

-------

Landor appeared to reach an uneasy truce with the Freelanders. He spoke politely to Jorgarn and Pernice but there was no hint of the warmth that Jorgarn had come to enjoy during his previous stay at the castle.

Jorgarn was surprised when Lorida went out of her way to visit with him and to ensure that his stay was comfortable. She spent hours with Eslada and Bralan and was a source of good humor at almost all times.

Torbert acted as though Jorgarn and Pernice had been gone for only a week instead of four years: He set them to training the Guards and immediately began to rely upon their experience and expertise in war craft. He encouraged Jorgarn and Pernice to push the new Guards and to use whatever means necessary to prepare them for what they faced. Jorgarn often dined with Astid and Batrix, who had returned to the castle when it became evident that an uprising was fomenting. Astid was still sullen but she perked up noticeably when Pernice was around, particularly when they dined without Saneth Fieth, who also had shown no small amount of interest in spending time with the Freelander.

Pernice seemed taken aback by their subtle hints. Despite his time in the army and in Freeland, he seemed to revert immediately to the class system he was familiar with upon his return to Emertland. It wasn't until Jorgarn pulled him aside and reminded him that Landor had awarded him a barony – a term of nobility for those who were not considered landholders – upon his return from the war.

"You can court them, marry them, breed them or just lead them on," Jorgarn said with a shrug. "I will admit to some fondness for each of those young women and their families, so I would prefer you not lead them on. Still, each has expressed a desire to spend time with you. You know Batrix and Torbert approve of you – even without a title before your name – and Elobert already considers you a brother. If you desire neither of them, you might want to let them know."

Pernice looked at the ground and shook his head. His eyes were bright when he faced Jorgarn again.

"Or I could simply emulate you and let them fight over me!" he said with a laugh. "You can't tell me Leyota is not going to put up a battle for you once she is here. I understand why she let you come back but I am not certain she understood the designs Bralan still has upon you."

Jorgarn checked to make sure no one (such as his mother-in-law) was within hearing distance before he replied.

"She knows and she approves," Jorgarn said as he elbowed Pernice in the ribs.

"I figured she would tire of you quickly," Pernice laughed. "You are like a puppy: You look cute and it seems like a good idea to take you home but then you pee on the floor and claw the chairs. As least she found a good home for you when she sent you away. She could have just sat you on the stoop like the chamber pot."

He turned serious.

"How does this affect Bralan?" he asked. "She still looks at you as she did when she was 13. If anything, she looks at you with wider eyes than when she was 13. Has Leyota taken Bralan's feelings into account? I've heard from the talk between she and Eslada that Leyota is expected to stay here. Is this going to create problems?"

Jorgarn exhaled slowly.

"Would it surprise you if I told you Leyota has a plan?" he asked.

Pernice's lip twisted in a wry smile.

"That would not surprise me," he said. "I believe Leyota has a plan for almost everything."

"And would it surprise you that she has not found fit to inform me of exactly what that plan is and how it affects me?" Jorgarn wondered.

"It would surprise me more if she had," Pernice said through his laughter.

The pair was still laughing when Torbert sat down beside them. The seriousness of his expression quelled the mirth almost immediately.

"Leyota has sent word through her mother," he said gravely. "There is a group heading this way from the northern territories. Her information suggests about 50 to 75 armed men and they left almost three weeks ago. She tells me that they will not come directly to the capital. They will go through other regions that have a grievance with the King. Her source says they plan to be here two weeks before mid-Court, which gives us about eight weeks to plan."

Jorgarn nodded. Leyota's spy had proved reliable in the past but there was no reason to set stock by her information.

"We should prepare for them," he said. "The timing might be quicker than she suspects."

Torbert nodded.

"The Freeland militia planned to sail this week," Torbert said. "Merg appears to have gone into the shipping business. She said he arranged transport for the militia on Tark vessels. She expects 150-175 soldiers to arrive soon, I would guess in the next few days. She also sent me a message for you, Jorgarn."

Jorgarn bit his lip in anticipation.

"She said the delivery you were expecting arrived," Torbert recited. "She said its arrival delayed her message. It came in the shape you expected it would and she will bring it with her when she accompanies the militia. Does that make sense to you?"

Jorgarn couldn't help the smile that found his face. He felt like jumping up and shouting with joy. He was a father and his wife and baby would arrive within the week.

"Yes, Torbert," he said. "It makes perfect sense to me. Thank you for bringing me the news."

"What are you expecting?" Pernice asked. He saw the excitement flash across Jorgarn's face then flee immediately. "Did you find a new sword? The one you have has seen better days. Look at that scratch down the blade."

Jorgarn glanced at his sword. He had wanted to tell Pernice the news but he was not on the list of people Leyota had approved. Still, he would know in a few days, so Jorgarn figured to wait until Torbert left and fill him in.

"I like my sword!" he said. "And I earned that scratch. You should be thankful that scratch is there."

Pernice laughed and nodded his head.

"You certainly did earn it and I am glad for it," he said as he turned to Torbert. "Jorgarn batted an arrow out of the air. It was amazing to see: He felled his opponent, took a single step and swatted a moving arrow like it was nothing. I happened to see him do it because the arrow was coming at me. I was probably only five or six feet away when it happened."

Torbert's eyes widened. An arrow in flight moved swiftly and to knock it from the air was no small feat.

"Well done," he said with a shake of his head. "I am certain that many people have boasted of this tale."

Jorgarn blushed but Pernice snorted.

"I was the only one who saw it," Pernice said. "And Jorgarn made me promise not to tell the troops. Many of them wanted us to stay behind the lines and watch the battle. He knew if Renoit or Belad found out how close it came, they would have a reason for their worrying. So far as I know, you're the only person who knows of this besides me."

A smile crested Torbert's face as he appraised Jorgarn. He shouldn't have been surprised that Jorgarn had kept the information quiet. He knew most men would have boasted of their skill and keen eyesight but Jorgarn was not the type for self-aggrandizement.

"I had yet to avenge the cowardly deaths of my soldiers," Jorgarn said simply but with menace in his voice. "I will continue that vengeance when the gutless Umbrians get nearer to the capital. Torbert, I hope you understand: The rules we set when we entered Umbria still apply as far as I'm concerned. I will leave no one to make a second attempt on Landor's life. The ones who seek alliance with the craven Umbrians are just as guilty. I hope you have made the King aware of this. Wherever we decide to meet this force will be their burial ground. That includes Denae if she has chosen to side with them."

Pernice didn't speak but instead nodded. Torbert thought of his daughter and the unspoken of horrors he was certain she had forced upon her. He remembered Usala's lilting laughter and warm eyes. He saw from Pernice's expression that Alite's memory spurred the man, too.

He nodded slowly.

"The King wishes to meet with us this evening," he announced. "We will discuss battle plans then. I will not tell him of Denae's fate should she come with the conspirators. It will be difficult enough to explain to him afterward."

Jorgarn and Pernice exchanged grim glances but nodded. Jorgarn had been forced to inform Usala's father of her death. Pernice had been forced to inform Alite's family. It would cause them hardship but no sleepless nights if they needed to tell Landor of Denae's fate.

But Jorgarn wondered if he would be able to deliver the killing stroke when the time came.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 43


Landor was already seated at the long table when Pernice and Jorgarn arrived with Bralan and Torbert. Jorgarn was perplexed why Landor wanted to meet in such an open area to discuss something that was best kept private. The chairs were arranged with many feet between them. It made no sense.

Torbert's chair was to the King's right, as befitting his role as Knight. Pernice was stationed midway down the table and Bralan and Jorgarn were at the opposite end from the King. One would almost have to shout to be heard.

"I have decided that Torbert will lead the troops into battle," Landor said without preamble when the group had been seated. Jorgarn saw the surprised look on Torbert's face and he knew the information had not been revealed to him previously. "Jorgarn, as your named seconds are no longer available, you will need to stay in the castle with Bralan and me."

Pernice glanced at Jorgarn, who simply shrugged.

"King Landor, I recommend you reconsider your decision," Pernice said. "The Freeland militia is under no obligation to accept orders from Sir Torbert; I doubt sincerely if their commanders will order them to do so."

"Then they can serve as protectors at the castle under Jorgarn's command," Landor said. "The Guard will serve as the main force under Torbert's command."

Jorgarn chose to ignore Landor completely and address his remarks to Torbert.

"How many men in your units have seen actual combat?" he asked. "I would wager you have a dozen, perhaps 15."

"Less," Torbert said. He still wore a puzzled expression. "I believe there are six who served with you in Umbria and one who was wounded in Gobrik and returned afterward."

"My advisers tell me that the Guard will be sufficient against the rabble," Landor said with a wave of his hand. "Their information indicates that the opposition is mostly farmers conscripted by their Lords and is less than 40 men."

"And I'm certain your advisers will not be sending their sons and daughters to die for their stupidity, will they?" Bralan said. There was anger in her voice and it rang strongly through the hall. Gone was the timid woman who often sat silently and allowed others to speak. "Landor, this is ridiculous! Your Guard will be facing at least 75 and possibly as many as 125 men, many of them Umbrian soldiers and probably more than a few who have experience in the armies of Vecad, Salaria and Gobrik. If you send your untrained army of boys and old men, it will be a slaughter ... and it will be you who goes to their parents to explain exactly why you sent them – arrogance and pride."

Landor's face turned red. He had expected Bralan to accept his decision as she had most of his others. He was certain Jorgarn and Pernice would argue, but instead they sat back with their arms crossed and a look of resignation on their faces.

"Pernice, will you recommend to your countrymen that they remain here and protect the castle?" Bralan asked.

"No," Pernice said flatly. "I will recommend they re-board their ships and stay out of the fray. There is no need for skilled fighting men to sit here. Once the insurgents kill the King I will ask your permission for them to come ashore and secure Emertland for you."

Bralan nodded and turned to Jorgarn.

"Will you stay to protect Landor if I elect to seek safety aboard the Freeland ships?" she asked.

Jorgarn nodded grimly.

"I will stay here and defend King Landor until my last breath or his," Jorgarn said, his eyes boring into the King's. Bralan's mouth dropped. She had not expected that answer.

"Sir Torbert and Gorin will be dead so it will be my duty to succeed them," Jorgarn explained when he saw Bralan's expression. "I will not betray Sir Torbert's memory by shirking my responsibility to him. However, I will ensure that all other people are gone from the castle beforehand. I will not allow anyone else to sacrifice his or her life for this foolishness!"

"It is not foolishness," Landor said loudly.

"Your Highness," Torbert said. "I respectfully suggest that Jorgarn or Pernice are more qualified to lead the troops. I further suggest that your safety is best assured by allowing regiments from the Freeland militia to defend you. Although Bralan's words were hurtful, she is correct: Your army is comprised mainly of young boys and old men. They have come far in the months that Pernice and Jorgarn have trained them but they are not prepared to face a skilled army. They are particularly not prepared to face a skilled army who uses the tactics described by our veterans of the Umbrian campaign."

Landor turned his steely eyes to his brother.

"This is about Emertland!" he said. "What will the people think if we have to rely on a mercenary army for our protection? They will see me as weak and ineffectual. Emertland's pride is at stake here."

Pernice's laughter filled the room.

"More of your advisers' words, I'll wager," he said. "I have had enough of this nonsense! I will meet the Freeland ships and tell them there is no need to come ashore until this old fool is dead. Torbert, I'm sorry. You know how much you mean to me. Your death will pain me greatly but I have become accustomed to losing those I care for. Landor, hear me and mark my words: If Jorgarn falls in your defense, you better make sure you die afterward. Because if he dies and you live, I will march the Freeland Army into this land and by the time I am finished there will not be a nobleman or noblewoman left alive. I will hang every last one of them and their children, too. I will drag you with me as I destroy this country and everyone in it. Then, only then, will I grant you the sweet relief of death you'll beg for a thousand times. Bralan can become the first Queen of Freeland for all I care."

With a nod toward Jorgarn and Bralan, Pernice exited the hall and the castle.

-------

The room descended into quiet after Pernice's angry words finished reverberating in the empty room. Landor's face turned ashen and he looked to Torbert for support. He found none.

"I have decided that we should allow the conspirators to close within a few miles of the castle before we confront them," Landor said in a voice that was much less assured than it had been previously. "I will suggest to most of my allies that they should come to the capital to watch. It should provide the populace with a boost."

"That is unwise, Your Majesty," Torbert said tonelessly. "Our Guard is unlikely to last long enough to evacuate the capital. I doubt you will have time to escape. If the Freelanders don't come ashore to provide protection, the capital will be overrun before you can make arrangements to flee. Many of your allies will be killed or captured."

"Torbert, these are farm boys led by that fool Denae married," Landor said dismissively. "They probably will carry only hammers and shovels. Surely the Guard can handle a small group of men led by a man with no military training whatsoever."

"I disagree with your advisers' assessment of the enemy," Torbert said. "Leyota's spy has not been wrong yet. She is a member of the Troch household staff. There is no question in my mind that we will meet an army of more than 100 men – many of them trained soldiers – who will be led by someone who knows what he is doing. If you want me to lead the battle, I believe you should let me decide when to fight it. If you wish your advisers to lead the battle, they can choose the spot where we are killed so long as they plan to come with me."

Landor waved his hand dismissively.

"Where do you receive your information?" Bralan asked. "I wonder only so I can know who to behead once I am crowned. Because I can assure you that the Freeland information is solid. I know the source of the information and there is no question in my mind that not only does she have access to what she has told us but she has the best interests of your daughter and this Kingdom at heart."

"Well, do tell," Landor said. "Who is the spy in their camp?"

Bralan shook her head.

"I am not authorized to give you that information," she said. "If your advisers are so good, they should be able to tell you who is employed at the Troch manor and you should be able to guess the source."

Landor rolled his eyes and looked again at Torbert.

"Why do you believe this servant has information my people can't get?" he asked.

Torbert was silent for a moment.

"I believe the answer is clear," he said. "It is the same reason that the conspirators know what happens here. You speak freely in front of the servants. You always have but you have done it more frequently since Denae's departure. You insist upon having this meeting in a room where it is simple to overhear conversations undetected. The Troch family would be worse about it than you are. I suspect I know who is providing the information to Leyota and I suspect I know why. Then there is the simple fact that everything Freeland has sent us has borne out. Your councilors have revised their estimations a dozen times in the last two months. Why it was only five weeks ago you were assured that there was no rebellion and Emertland would see no fighting. I suggest, Your Majesty, it is time for you to look elsewhere for guidance. The advice you have been given is not the best. I believe they have fallen into the habit of telling you what you wish to hear instead of what you need to know."

"May I suggest an alternative?" Jorgarn asked.

Landor's eyes narrowed but he nodded.

"Allow the Freeland militia to come ashore and to prepare as though we are facing a large, trained force," he said. "If it turns out we're wrong, it is simply a training exercise and there is no harm to Emertland. We will put together two plans of attack: One will feature the Guard fighting an untrained army close to the capital; the other will feature the combined forces of Freeland, Tark and Emertland against a skilled adversary farther from the Capital. There is time for us to send people out to see exactly what is coming. You might be correct, King Landor. I will admit that when I first heard of this conspiracy, I didn't believe it. I have always believed you to be a fair and honorable man. I was honored to be your subject for the time I lived here. But there is no reason for us to sit here blindly and hope we're correct about what is happening."

"Will you order your soldiers to fight for Torbert?" Landor asked. Jorgarn could not understand why it was a sticking point for the King. Bralan spoke before Jorgarn could reply.

"King Landor, I believe you misunderstand Jorgarn's role in Freeland," she said. "He is not the head of their army. I do not believe he or Pernice is even a part of their army. He is not on the group that leads the country. He could not order the Freeland Army to do anything even if he wanted to. I will speak to Leyota when she arrives to gauge her feelings on the matter. The Freelanders might be amenable to following Torbert but I would suspect that they will insist that one of their commanders lead them – just as Sir Torbert would insist on someone from the Guard to lead his forces."

"I would insist upon it, if that option wasn't already taken away from me at King Landor's insistence," Torbert said.

"What choice did I take from you?" Landor asked hurriedly.

"I planned to put my second in command in charge of the forces," Torbert said. "Right now, I have no one – absolutely no one – in a leadership position that will do any good on a battlefield. The Guard Commander is the leader of the field but you insist that it will be me, so it will be me."

"You can appoint your Commander if you choose," Landor pointed out.

"Not if he is in the castle with you I can't," Torbert said in exasperation. "We have had this conversation before. I know you do not understand the inner workings of the Knighthood so I will say this as succinctly as I can. Jorgarn, regardless of where he goes or what he does – if he never steps foot in Emertland again – is a Knight. It matters not if he lives 10,000 leagues away. He is a Knight so long as he lives. And as such, he is a Commander in the Guard. Regardless of where he is, he is my second in command, my battlefield leader. He was when he lived in the castle; he was when he left for Freeland; and he is now. There is nothing you can decree that will change that, Landor. So long as he lives, he is a Knight. Even if Denae or Bralan or whoever might come next dies, he is a Knight. Does that make it easier for you relinquish control of this before you find yourself in something you cannot get out of?"

Landor closed his eyes briefly.

"So, you are saying regardless of what happens here, I am never to be rid of Jorgarn," he said with a trace of anger in his voice.

"I suppose you could pick up a sword and have a go at me," Jorgarn replied in the same tone. "Or maybe you would like to select a few more of your subjects to send to their deaths because you can rest assured, I would take many of them with me before I went."

"Enough," Torbert said. "Yes, Landor, you can rid yourself of Jorgarn. Although why you would want to is beyond me. You have the option of trying to kill him. I would wager that Freeland would invade us and kill you, but that is an option. Or you can abdicate the throne. Then you will be rid of him and I will be rid of you."

Landor turned to his brother, mouth agape.

"Yes, brother, I have grown tired of your ridiculous assertions and accusations over the past year," Torbert said through clenched teeth. "I have grown tired of listening to you decry how you were forced to send Denae away. I sicken of listening to you blame your problems on everyone but where they truly lie: With you and those you surround yourself with. Have you noticed that every decent person who once resided in this castle has left?

"First it was Eslada and Bralan because you refused to make Denae accept responsibility for that which she admitted was her fault. Then it was Lorida because she refused to watch your daughter make a mockery of her position. Next it was Batrix and Astid because they tired of you belittling my daughter's death. Jorgarn is gone. Pernice is gone. Fieth, Renoit, Leyota. You even forced Merg to leave the only home he has ever known. You forced people to take sides and then you got angry when they chose the side opposite yours. Landor, everyone chose the opposite side. Has that not occurred to you? Have you not asked yourself why all the decent people are over there and you and Denae are over here? Perhaps it is time you do. If you will excuse me, I fully intend to have my Commander assist me in preparing a battle plan for this asinine decision you've made. Then I will seek out Pernice to plan an alternate strategy when we find out we're not dealing with a handful of farmers with pitchforks."

Torbert left the room, shaking his head as he departed. The King stared down the table at Bralan and Jorgarn for moment then followed Torbert.

"That was certainly a productive strategy session," Bralan said wryly as she and Jorgarn left headed up the stairs to their wing of the castle.

-------

It wasn't until their morning meal the following day that Jorgarn remembered to tell Bralan about Leyota.

"The baby came," he announced out of the blue.

"What?" Bralan wondered for a moment before she realized what Jorgarn was talking about. "Really? How do you know? Can you do that thing you used to do with Denae?"

She blushed.

"I mean talk to each other from far away," she corrected.

"No," Jorgarn replied. "Torbert told me. She sent him a message for me in her letter."

"So what is it?" Bralan asked with excitement.

Jorgarn misunderstood. He sat for a minute trying to recreate the conversation in his mind.

"She said the delivery I was expecting came and it was in the condition I wanted," he repeated.

"I mean is it a boy or a girl?" Bralan said with a touch of exasperation.

Jorgarn pondered.

"I assume so," he said as he tried to hide a smile. "Although Pernice compared me to a puppy yesterday so we can't rule that out."

Bralan threw a piece of toast at him.

"I don't know," he finally answered. "She didn't mention the gender or if she did, it was lost in Torbert's translation."

"Maybe that's what she meant by 'it's in the condition you expected, '" Bralan offered. "Did you expect a boy or a girl? Did you say you wanted one or the other?"

"Do you think I'm an idiot?" Jorgarn asked rhetorically, because he wasn't entirely certain he would like the answer. "I expressed no preference."

His last sentence seemed to still the retort on Bralan's lips.

"I can't believe you didn't tell me yesterday," she said as her mouth formed a pout. "It is unseemly for the godfather to know before the godmother. I want you to know that I am affronted."

"What do you mean?" Jorgarn asked in confusion.

"I mean I'm mad," she answered with a giggle. "You told Pernice before telling me."

Jorgarn shook his head.

"No, I didn't," he replied.

"Well, I'm sure Pernice was there when Torbert relayed the message," Bralan said. "Pernice isn't as thick as you are. He would have understood."

"What's a goodfather and goodmother?" Jorgarn asked. "And how did Pernice get into this conversation?"

"Godfather and godmother," Bralan corrected. "In Emertland, the parents usually select their closest friends and ask them to agree to watch over the child in case something happens to the parents. Leyota asked me to be the baby's godmother before we left Freeland. I figured you had asked Pernice. You did ask Pernice, didn't you?"

"Uh, well, no," Jorgarn stammered. "We don't do that in Longview. At least I don't think we do. We might. Father doesn't have any friends so it didn't come up. I really didn't have any friends either."

He looked at his food which he suddenly didn't feel like eating any more. Bralan came over and sat on Jorgarn's lap. He was surprised because they had kept their distance from one another during their stay at the castle as they grew to know the other again.

"Well, you have friends now," she said. "You have many friends. I'm certain Pernice will be honored but so would many others I can name. You can ask him when you see him."

"He doesn't know," Jorgarn interjected. "I haven't mentioned it to him, the baby I mean. He thinks I ordered a new sword."

"You didn't tell him that you and Leyota were going to have a child?" Bralan inquired with a look of incomprehension on her face. "Jorgarn, he is your closest friend."

"You were there," Jorgarn said quickly. "Pernice was not on the list of people Leyota said I could tell. I'm certain she had a reason for me keeping it from him."

"I'm certain that if she did it was a stupid one," Bralan said. "Jorgarn, he will be immensely hurt if he finds out when Leyota walks off the ship. He might even be so surprised that he blurts out something awkward in front of people Leyota most certainly doesn't want to know yet. You need to tell him first thing. Then you need to apologize for keeping it from him and then ask him to be the baby's godfather. Whatever you do, do not tell him you thought Leyota didn't want him to know ... and don't say you didn't think he would be interested or that it slipped your mind. Tell him you didn't want to curse your luck by speaking about it until the baby arrived safely and you knew Leyota was well. That should work, given the circumstances of your birth."

"I don't think he knows of that, either," Jorgarn said. He hated to lie to Pernice and he was leery of disregarding Leyota's wishes. Bralan saw those facts written on his face.

"She probably didn't mention him because she didn't think she had to," Bralan pointed out. "You two are closer than brothers. She would never expect you to keep something this important from him. If she did, you can blame me. I'll explain why to her if she is angry."

"That doesn't ease my consciences about lying to him," Jorgarn said.

"There are good lies and there are bad lies," she replied with a smile. "For instance, if Leyota has rounded a bit and she asks if you think she has gained weight, your answer is 'no'. In fact, the answer to that question, if posed by a female, is always 'no'. I do not care if you think I look as big as this castle. If I ask you that question, I want you to answer 'no'."

"The same is true here: A small fabrication will cause no harm and it will save much grief. You do not want Pernice to have the impression that anyone finds him untrustworthy. Your misunderstanding of Leyota's intentions will create that impression. You also don't want to create the impression that you look at him only as a fellow warrior who has no feelings. If you say you didn't think he would care, that is what he will believe you mean. He cares! His words last night proved beyond measure how much he cares. So find him and rectify this error without causing hardship. Please?"

Jorgarn nodded but his reply was cut short by a knock on the door.

"Enter," Bralan said without moving from her seat on Jorgarn's lap. She expected it was Eslada or even Pernice, who were the only people who visited them this early in the morning. Instead it was a castle page, a boy of about 12, who blushed furiously and looked away when he saw Bralan with her arms around Jorgarn's neck in an obvious display of affection.

"I apologize for not announcing myself," the boy stammered. "Uh, His Majesty, King Landor requests your presences in his study for a private meeting when you conclude your morning meal. Again, please excuse my intrusion Your Highness, Sir Jorgarn. I will be sure to announce my identity before entering in the future."

"It is no problem," Bralan, who had not left her perch, replied sweetly. "Please, what is your name?"

"Edelweck," the boy said, still looking away from the table. Jorgarn wonder briefly if portions of Bralan's anatomy were on display.

"Well, Edelweck, it is no one's fault but mine and I hope you will accept my apologies for embarrassing you," Bralan continued.

"Oh, of course, Your Highness," the boy said quickly.

"I am not the Heiress yet," Bralan said. "For now and in the future, you may refer to me as Bralan unless there are people around who frown upon that sort of familiarity. You need not refer to me as anything but Bralan when it is just us or I am with my friends. I believe Jorgarn would mind little if you dropped the Sir when addressing him in the future."

"I would mind not at all," Jorgarn said with a smile and a nod. The boy still seemed intent on looking anywhere but where they sat. "In fact, I pretty well insist upon it. Edelweck, within these chambers, there is no formality, at least as far as I'm concerned. If you are to bring messages here frequently, you will see or hear things that others would not understand if you were to repeat them. This morning is not one of those cases. Bralan and I have known one another for years and we are close friends."

"But I didn't get to sit like this as often as I wanted to," Bralan said and her musical laugh filled the room. "I do hope we can count on you to be circumspect."

"Of course, Your ... Bralan," Edelweck replied. "My father served with both of you in the Guard. He perished at Gobrik and my mother and I work in the castle now. He and my mother spoke very highly of you both."

"What was your father's name?" Jorgarn asked. He knew the life stories of almost all the man who fell in battle with him. Most of them were young and without families. Only three or four names sprang to mind. "Was it Zormon?"

"It was!" the boy said. "You remember him?"

Jorgarn smiled sadly and nodded.

"I do remember him," he replied. "A fine man, your father was. Someday, when things have settled down a little, you and I will sit and I will share with you his final few months. He was a brave man, a selfless man. I admired him greatly."

The boy finally looked over to where Jorgarn sat and Jorgarn spotted a small tear in the boy's eye.

"You admired him?" he asked, almost in wonder.

"I did and I still do," Jorgarn replied.

"As do I," Bralan echoed. A small smile crept across her face. "I also have tales of his deeds. His death was mourned by everyone who knew him. And almost everyone knew Zormon. I am extremely happy that you and your mother are well. If you would, Edelweck, please inform King Landor that Sir Jorgarn and I will be down in just a few minutes, and please tell your mother that if you or she needs anything, you need only find Jorgarn, Pernice or me. Any of the three of us will do all in our power to help."

The boy smiled and he appeared to Jorgarn to be slightly taller when he left the room.

"This should be interesting," Bralan said.

Jorgarn simply grunted. Bralan leaned forward and kissed his cheek.

"Well, our meal is cold so we might as well go," she said, getting up and trying to drag Jorgarn to his feet. She was unsuccessful.

"I need a moment to sharpen my sword," he deadpanned.

"Use it dull," she joked. "It will be more painful that way. Anyway, he requested a visit. He did not command it. We should look at that as a small victory."

-------

Jorgarn was shocked at how old King Landor looked when they entered the study. He had lines on his face that Jorgarn had not noticed before. His hair had started to turn silver and there was a sadness to his eyes that seemed to have taken permanent residence there.

"I would like to apologize, to you both and to Pernice," he said when Bralan and Jorgarn were seated. "The last few months have been difficult for me but Torbert and Lorida are correct. This is a matter of my own making and disavowing that serves no purpose but to dig the hole further. I spent most of last night reflecting on what has been said to me over the past few months. Few dare speak to me that way and I saw it as proof of the lack of respect I hold. I now understand it is because I have been guilty of grave misjudgments and each of you cares enough about me and Emertland to try to get me to see that. I have spoken to Torbert this morning. Thankfully, he had no sharp objects nearby. We are of a similar opinion upon how to proceed but we would like to discuss it – and I mean discuss it, not dictate it – with you and Pernice. Do you believe he will agree to speak with us?"

Jorgarn had no idea if Pernice would ever enter the castle again.

"I believe he will, Your Majesty," Bralan answered. "We need but find him."

Landor nodded his head sadly.

"It pains me greatly to have Denae on the opposite side of this conflict," he confessed. "I love my daughter and I feel responsible for what has transpired. You are correct, Jorgarn: I did mention that your departure would give her an opportunity to explore a part of life that a young marriage denies a person. Part of it was because of the marriage contract. Another was because I did not want her to look back in future years with regret. But, as you said, you hold a greater respect in this castle than she or I do. That much was evident when her actions were discovered. I had several staff members offer to leave rather than deal with her."

Landor looked to a spot somewhere in the distance.

"She was oblivious," he said softly. "I know for certain she understood what she stood to lose if she was discovered. I am still uncertain if she believed that no one would dare say anything or if she believed she could convince you they were lying but your staff was among the first to discover what she was doing. Young Merg would not even tolerate her presence in the same room as him. I thought Leyota would provoke a physical confrontation. I worried what would happen should Eslada find out. But I discovered that Eslada already knew. She knew and she had decided that losing your respect and trust would be the price that Denae bore. I do not believe she expected you to depart Emertland. When you left – and so many people integral to the running of not only the Guard but the city left with you – it sent things into a spin here."

"I will confess I did not foresee it having such far-reaching consequences nor did I imagine that your new country would succeed. Obviously there were a great many things I have been wrong about in the past few years. When this is finished, if we still exist, I will offer you a full recounting, if you desire it. I have searched long and hard for a way to end this without harming Denae. Perhaps that is why I allowed myself to be convinced that we were facing a small, disorganized group despite all evidence pointing the contrary. I still hope we can find a way."

"I believe, Your Majesty, that depends entirely upon her," Bralan pointed out. "If she is insistent upon entering the battle or directing the fighting, then she is liable to be killed. If she is not with the group on the march, it is possible for this to end without her death. I suspect she still will have to be dealt with, perhaps not as harshly as the Symingtons but Emertland will never be at peace so long as she believes she – and her child – has a legitimate claim to the Crown. There will always be groups who disagree with your policies. That is a fact you know well. All Denae needs to do is to continually pander to whichever group feels disaffected at the time and Emertland will constantly be on war footing. I think you'll agree that is something we cannot afford – economically or emotionally."

"I feel no affection for Denae. I do not dislike her but I do not hold her dear, either. If it happens upon my installation, please know that I will take action – swiftly and finally. I will not permit a constant vigil on her actions. Once you die or abdicate, she will have but one mistake before it is her final one. In the interim, should she attempt to discredit or harm me, I will not attempt to stop Jorgarn from handling the situation as he deems appropriate. She will see no more mercy from me because she is your daughter than those without Royal heritage. I don't say this to you to provoke you or incite you. I state it simply as a fact that you should be aware of as you decide the best way to pursue a fruitful end for all."

Landor's face had shown no anger at Bralan's words. Jorgarn marveled at the way she could coldly inform you that if she had her way your only child would be dead soon in a voice that made you think she might be discussing the weather. It was a talent he lacked.

"Jorgarn, Torbert believes it best to orchestrate the battle from the castle," Landor said. "He will be the overall commander of the combined troops but the individual groups will answer to their own leader. That might put you into proximity to Denae. Do you believe she still might be able to glance into your thoughts?"

It was something Jorgarn hadn't considered. He had not practiced shielding his thoughts in almost five years. He was not certain he even remembered how.

"That is an unknown," he answered honestly. "One of many unknowns, actually. I will confess that I am unsure of whether I could harm your daughter. I cared about her greatly once and those feelings fade but rarely cease. It is something that I have been considering and I still have no answer. If she were an actual participant, taking weapon in hand and fighting, I do not believe I would hesitate. Otherwise, I am not sure of how I might behave."

"I don't see how it would be possible for her be a combatant," Landor said with a shake of his head.

Both Bralan and Jorgarn raised their eyes; Landor tilted his head in question.

"King Landor, Denae trained with me for two years on the use of a short sword and a crossbow," Jorgarn said. "If she has practiced at all in the past years, she is equal with or superior to the majority of men and woman in your Guard."

"I have watched her practice while Jorgarn was at war," Bralan added. "She is skilled in several disciplines with the short sword. You will need to be wary of that if she requests a private meeting with you."

Landor closed his eyes tightly but nodded.

"One thing I noticed early on," Jorgarn said, "if Denae feels aggrieved, she can become aggressive. If she believes she was coerced, she is passive. I noticed this while I was training her for Reprisal. If she believes she had an honest complaint about the way her dismissal was handled, I would not be surprised to see her with a sword in her hand. If she is a simple pawn of Troch's power play, she is more apt to be a spectator or far away from the conflict."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 44


The ships from Freeland arrived just after Jorgarn managed to track down Pernice. Their conversation was shortened because of the ships' appearance on the horizon.

"First off, the battle plan has changed," Jorgarn said as he watched the five ships in the distance. "Landor has come to his senses and either you or I – or likely both of us – will be in charge of the battlefield. The Freeland militia will play a major role."

Pernice raised his eyebrows.

"I'm sorry I got so angry yesterday," he said but Jorgarn waved a hand.

"You were justified and you were just the preliminary battle," he joked. "Torbert got his shots in after you left and I gather Lorida finished the fight when Landor went to his chambers. Regardless, it worked and you saved many lives by saying what everyone thought but were too scared to put into words. We owe you a debt of gratitude and the King wishes to offer you an apology, but more on that later. I have something else to tell you."

Jorgarn gathered his breath.

"The delivery that I am expecting on those ships is my child," he said.

"Your child?" Pernice said loudly before covering his mouth and looking around to see if anyone heard him. He sighed when he saw they were alone.

"My child," Jorgarn reiterated. "Leyota delivered a child last month. I didn't want to say anything because I know we all worry about things like that. If I didn't discuss it, I could put the worry aside for a while each day. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier. We hope that you will consent to be its godfather."

Pernice bobbed his head and wiped a tear from his eye.

"I am happy for you and for Leyota," he said as he cleared his eyes again. "I would be proud to have your son or daughter as my godchild. I pledge to do everything in my power to ensure that he or she grows up strong, healthy and loved."

"You would have done that anyway," Jorgarn replied as he put his arm around his friend's shoulder. "There was never a doubt in my mind about that."

"So you and Leyota will stay married then," Pernice said. "Does Bralan know?"

Jorgarn nodded.

"I understand that she is the godmother," he answered. "I am uncertain if there is a ceremony or if we require a virgin sacrifice or what. We do not have godparents in Longview."

"We can always use Bralan if we need a virgin sacrifice," Pernice joked. "I doubt she will ever marry now."

"I believe it is Leyota's plan that I will wed Bralan," Jorgarn muttered as he looked at the ground. "As I said, I am not permitted to know the details of such things. They only affect the entirety of my life."

Pernice looked dumbfounded for a moment.

"You really are a bastard," he said with a shake of his head. "You will have the most powerful women in two countries in your bed. I have to pay half a Konec to get a tavern wench to sit with me for a drink."

"I believe it was just yesterday that you and I were discussing whether you would prefer to bed the next Lady Weltin or the current Lady Fieth," Jorgarn rejoined.

"I like them both," Pernice said seriously, "and they both are lovely women. But there is just something missing, that spark I felt with Alite. I am not certain that I will ever be able to settle for less. I've seen you with Leyota. I know you understand. I am fortunate that I did not marry Rayna. I would have never known that feeling. From the first moment we spoke – about fruit spread of all things – I felt something for Alite that I could never put into words. A large part of me died that day. I've never thanked you properly for all you did to preserve her dignity – that meant a great deal to me."

"She meant a great deal to me because you loved her," Jorgarn said simply. "It's why I felt a special bond with Usala – because of Torbert and Traymer."

"You knew he planned to ask Torbert for her hand?" Pernice asked.

"I did," Jorgarn answered with deep sigh. "I encouraged him. I met Zormon's son this morning. He works for the King."

"Good man," Pernice said sadly.

"You should mention that to Edelweck when you see him," Jorgarn noted. "I get the impression that the contributions of the fallen have been overlooked somewhat in the wake of everything else that happened."

"I will," Pernice replied. "Let's get down to the shore. I want to see this child of yours. I hope to Creation that it looks like Leyota."

"You and me both," Jorgarn said. "Especially if she is a girl."

-------

No one at the dock was prepared for what they saw when the plank was lowered and the passengers began to disembark.

Leyota was at the front, flanked by Fieth and her brother. She carried a wrapped bundle in her left arm. That was no surprise to Jorgarn, Bralan or Pernice. But she carried a small boy on her right hip – and Rayna Clain, her arms in slings, walked behind her down the plank.

"What in Creation is she doing here?" Jorgarn muttered.

"She is our spy," Bralan whispered.

"I put my faith and reputation at stake on her word," he said softly but in a harsh tone. "This is why I do not like people playing games with me."

"It was no game, Jorgarn," Bralan answered as she grabbed his arm and turned him to face her. "You were kept in the dark because you would have disregarded her words without bothering to listen to them. Do not deny that."

"You're damned right I would have," Jorgarn hissed. "I have always said I liked Rayna but you have never heard me say I trust her."

He shook his head and yanked his arm from Bralan's grip. He glanced at Pernice, who stood with Astid on one side and Saneth on the other, but with no discernible expression on his face.

"I didn't know," he whispered over Saneth's head. "On my word, I had no idea she would be here."

Pernice turned and smiled – which caught Jorgarn completely off guard.

"I find it does not matter," he said. "My only concern is the veracity of her information but I do not think she would be here if she was lying to us."

It was a point Jorgarn had in his anger failed to take into account.

"Fine," he muttered with a half-smile. "Take their side."

Saneth elbowed Jorgarn in the side and pointed to where Leyota was nearing the end of the long plank. Jorgarn rushed forward, along with the rest of the party, to assist her.

"I was wondering if you would just let me tumble into the bay," Leyota said with a warm smile. "I've missed you and I would like to show you how much but here is not the place."

Instead she turned her cheek to him for a kiss which he gladly offered. Bralan pushed him aside and took the baby from Leyota's arm. The small boy reached out a hand to play with Jorgarn's beard. So he plucked the squirming child from Leyota's grasp to give him better access.

"Rayna," he said to the woman beside Leyota. "It's good to see you again. I'm sorry you're injured. Thank you for the risks you took. May I kiss your cheek, as well?"

Rayna had braced herself the reception she was certain she would receive given the cargo she carried with her but seeing Jorgarn take the child in his arms and then speak not just cordially to her but in the manner of a friend left her speechless. She simply nodded so Jorgarn lowered his head and softly kissed her before greeting his old friends, Chicote and Elobert.

Both of them were watching Jorgarn extremely closely but Leyota pulled at his arm to get his attention.

"Let me have the young man, please," she said in almost a whispered. "You should perhaps get acquainted with your daughter."

Jorgarn ran his finger over the boy's nose, eliciting a giggle, before passing him off to Leyota. Then he spotted Bralan holding ... his daughter. With a gulp, he stepped over to look at the small baby.

"Hello, little one," he said quietly. "I hope you know that you will be loved like no other child under Creation. May I hold her, please?"

Bralan appeared reluctant to give up the bundle but was ready to relent when Fieth and Renoit caught up to Jorgarn and ushered him to where Leyota was approaching the King.

"Be ready," Chicote whispered.

"Your Highness, King Landor," Leyota said with a bow. "May I introduce you to Leyod Doloran, your grandson."

"What in blazes?" Jorgarn said to no one in particular. He has assumed the child was Rayna's.

Landor appeared stunned but Lorida stepped forward and took the boy in her arms.

"Where is Denae?" Landor asked, bewildered.

"Safe," Leyota said. "I will explain further in private, if you do not mind, but I ask that you permit me to assume responsibility for your grandson during our stay in Emertland."

"Yes, of course," Landor said, still struggling to take in what he was seeing. "Do you wish to stay in the castle? Was that another child you brought with you?"

Leyota smiled and Jorgarn noticed it had the same effect on Landor as it did on him.

"That is my daughter," Leyota replied. "She is six weeks old this day. I regret her arrival delayed our departure for a week until it was deemed safe for me to travel."

Eslada had appeared at Lorida's side.

"You look well for having given birth so recently," she said with a smile. "I wish you to know that I am willing to sit with her while you attend to your official duties as Councilor."

"I have resigned my duties," Leyota said. "Your daughter has asked me to stay in Emertland to assist her in her role as Heiress. I have agreed to do so but you are welcome to visit with her as often as you like."

"What is her name?" Lorida asked.

"It has yet to be decided officially," Leyota admitted, "but for now, I call her Marnit."

Eslada smiled broadly and couldn't help but glance at Jorgarn. She doubted anyone else in Emertland knew his daughter carried his mother's name.

"That is a lovely name," Lorida said. "I believe you should keep it."

"I would like to meet your husband," King Landor said. "I wish to offer him my congratulations on his fine taste and the birth of his daughter. If you require it, I am certain I can find a place for him in the capital. Of course, he will always be welcome in the castle."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Leyota said. "I promise to introduce you to him when it is possible. I also wish your indulgence in housing Rayna Clain, who I am certain you remember. Eslada, I do hope this will pose no difficulty for you."

"I have been made aware of the contributions she has made on Bralan's behalf," Eslada said. "I believe there is no further cause for strife."

"Come, come, let us adjourn to the castle," King Landor said. "We have set aside space for the Freeland militia. Sir Torbert can direct them. Who is in command of your militia, Leyota?"

"That would be Ronac Belad, Your Highness," Leyota said. "He is currently conferring with Sir Torbert. I should also mention Sire that the holdings that you govern in the former Longview Territory have sent 50 men for your use. I should alert the harbormaster that Tark is sending a ship that should arrive late today or early tomorrow."

Landor relaxed for what seemed like the first time in a year.

"And how many did you bring, my dear?" he asked. "Aside from the 50 Rangers from Longview."

"One-hundred and seventy-five warriors and 25 support staff – medics and cooks mostly," Leyota answered. "Oh, and me."

Leyota turned to Jorgarn, who had stepped to her side and handed Leyod to him. He couldn't help but take the boy despite the fact he didn't want to.

"Carry him," Leyota said with narrowed eyes. "I want to carry Marnit and Rayna's injured."

The scowl on Jorgarn's face would have sent most men scurrying as far away from him as possible but Leyota stood firm.

"I will explain everything to you as soon as I can, my love," she said softly, "but please, take the boy and carry him. He walks but not well."

She smiled at Jorgarn.

"Well, actually, he walks about as well as you," she said with a giggle. "Now where is my child? Do not tell me that witch Bralan is trying to abscond with her."

Pernice, Elobert and Chicote fell in beside Jorgarn as the trekked to the castle.

"You are going to love this cläda," Elobert said with a chuckle. "Absolutely love it!"

-------

Pernice, Fieth and Renoit peeled off during the walk to the castle and Jorgarn hastened his pace to catch up with Bralan, Leyota and Rayna, who were walking in front of him.

By the time he reached the castle, Jorgarn accompanied only Landor and the three ladies. Torbert walked several paces behind them. As the King ushered everyone into the study, Jorgarn gently took Rayna's arm and pulled her aside. She seemed surprised but not as surprised at Bralan when Jorgarn handed Leyod to her as she passed.

"You and I will take a walk down to the infirmary where Trinil will remove your bandages and I will ensure you carry no weapons," Jorgarn said to Rayna. "It must be this way. I hope you understand."

Leyota had popped her head outside when Jorgarn hadn't entered. She heard what he told the spy.

"You're being ridiculous," she huffed. "Vellendira wrapped her wounds."

"And Vellendira lived in Umbria and helped to rule it with her family!" Jorgarn pointed out. There was little warmth in his voice.

"Jorgarn, you know Vellendira," Leyota said plaintively. "She delivered Marnit. She is not as skilled as our medics. But she is a fine healer and herbalist."

"I do not know Vellendira," Jorgarn answered through clenched teeth. "I know only that she was our captive for several months then she was released. I do not know where she went from there. I do not know how her countrymen treated her upon her release. She could have taken refuge with a northern lord as so many other Umbrians did."

Leyota let out a frustrated sigh.

"Leyota, have I once inferred that I know more about your duties than you do?" Jorgarn asked.

"No," she answered quickly. She appeared intent upon saying more.

"Then do not for a moment presume you know how to do mine," Jorgarn interrupted angrily. "Do you believe that kiss on the cheek I gave Rayna was a sign of friendship? Do you suppose I was being gallant when I put my hand on her back to assist her up the hill? Those actions allowed me opportunities to assess her wounds. There is something hard wrapped beneath her bandages on her wrist and around her waist. She will not be permitted close proximity to Bralan or Landor until I know for certain why that is. Now I can take her to the infirmary so Trinil may assist me or I can drag her to the dungeon and do it with no one else present."

"It's perfectly acceptable, Leyota," Rayna said. "I understand Jorgarn's caution – just as I understand why you thought it best that Denae stay away from the castle. Part of you wished to shield her from the battle but another part of you distrusted her to be where she might be a danger to the Heiress or the King."

Leyota blushed slightly.

"I know you've sparred with her," Rayna said with a slight smile. "While neither of you might best a tested soldier, she could pose a danger to one who is young and might tend to be swayed by her gender or beauty. I understood your precautions and so did she ... just as I understand Jorgarn's."

"Then I will accompany you," Leyota said.

"You will go back in that room and bar the door until I return!" Jorgarn ordered. "Leyota, this is not Freeland; you do not give the orders here. I would no sooner let you near to someone who might wish to harm the Royals than I would Bralan."

Leyota's eyes glinted with anger so Jorgarn leaned closely and whispered to her.

"The surest way to ensure my capitulation is to have you as a captive, Love," he told her. "If you were in peril, I could be compelled to do just about anything. Please, go back inside and explain what I am doing. Marnit needs her mother nearby."

Leyota smiled but the look in her eye told Jorgarn it was not the last time they would discuss this. With a sigh, he turned to Rayna, who offered a knowing smile.

"I would be dead now without Leyota," Rayna offered. "She was a friend to me when I had no friends. I, too, would offer my life for her. If you wish, we may step into any unoccupied room and I will remove my bandages."

"Uh, well, for propriety's sake, there should be a woman in the room," Jorgarn said.

Rayna laughed.

"I firmly believe you would rather sever your arm than betray the women who love you," Rayna replied. "I could toss off my clothes and beg you and you still would remain true. It is what I miss most about Pernice and what Denae misses most about you – steadfast loyalty. Sadly, it is a loyalty that neither of us offered to those we cared about."

Rayna stepped into an antechamber and closed the door. She unwrapped the bandages on her wrists and Jorgarn saw ugly black bruises extending the length of her forearms. There were two sticks beneath each wrap that supported the wrists to stop them from moving.

"I was bound and dragged," she said. "They found the messages I was sending to Leyota. Thankfully, when I missed sending a message for five consecutive days, Leyota asked her brother, along with Elobert Fieth and Mino Lippit to investigate. They secured my release and Denae's as well. We were across the Freeland border before anyone recognized we were missing."

She didn't hesitate when she reached to unbutton her gown but pain from her wrists stopped her.

"Can you do this?" she asked. "Or I can simply lift it up. I have a bandage on my right thigh as well."

"What is beneath your dress?" Jorgarn asked.

Rayna laughed and shook her head.

"If you need to ask that then I am sorely mistaken about who fathered Leyota's baby," she said.

Jorgarn blushed in spite of himself.

"During the days I was a captive, many men saw me without clothes," Rayna said as a tear formed. "At least I know you wish me no ill will and you will be gentle about it if you do."

She leaned forward and offered the buttons to Jorgarn who opened the top two. With an effort, Rayna allowed it to slip past her shoulders and across her breasts to land on the floor. She wore nothing beneath it but bandages across her ribs and a one thigh. There were bruises across her hips and pelvis and her lower hair had been removed completely, baring the petals of her flower. Short stubble was all that covered her. Jorgarn felt slightly ashamed of himself but he knelt in front of her and removed the bandage from Rayna's thigh. There was a long cut beneath it.

"I took to wearing a dagger under my dress," she explained. "Sadly, when I was captured, I harmed myself more than anyone else."

Jorgarn inadvertently brushed against Rayna's flower when he unwrapped the wound. She released a sharp gasp and he apologized.

"It was actually nice to have hands upon me there that were gentle," Rayna replied when Jorgarn stood to check her ribs. He tried to ascertain what was beneath the covering without removing it – because it nestled snugly beneath Rayna's breasts. But he could not tell what was underneath. He considered simply forgetting about it but then decided he had gone this far. He tried to be extremely careful about Rayna's privacy when he removed the bandage. He moved behind her only to discover welts and bruises covering back and rear.

Distracted, he dragged his hand across Rayna's prominent nipples as he tried to remove the wrap that encircled her. He quickly apologized again.

"I have felt worse," Rayna replied as she turned to face him. She laughed and dipped her shoulder when Jorgarn make another circle, against pushing her breast against his hand. "Actually, it appears I liked it."

Jorgarn found Rayna's middle covered with a cast of sorts that fell on the floor when one side of her bandage was removed. Beneath the casts were a mass of bruises and broken ribs. Jorgarn shook his head in disgust.

"Did they kill them?" he asked. "When they rescued you, I mean?"

Rayna lifted her eyes to meet Jorgarn's.

"No," she answered. "We were on the way to Thane when they figured out who was spying upon them. They bound my hands and made me run behind the carriage during the days and had their way with me during the nights. They left me in Wallingford while they continued on. They staked me outside the manor and locked Denae inside. They planned to bring as many men back from Thane as they could find and rape me to death."

"Was Denae treated the same way?" Jorgarn asked, although he wasn't certain he wanted to know the answer.

"No," Rayna said. "I told them she knew nothing about what I was doing. They locked her in only so she didn't try to flee. Wallingford and Thane both border Freeland. Your men looked for me in Thane, because I told Leyota that was where the group was headed, then backtracked until they found us. Fieth stayed behind to ensure the men passed by again. He said Frayon Troch was displeased to find Denae gone. She always had given the impression she backed the plan, although privately she searched for a way to alert her father. She has grown much in the past year. The loss of position caused her to reflect on why it had happened – just as it forced me to do that same thing years ago. Leyod has been a good thing for her even if he cost her the Crown. Now, if you plan to ravish me, would you hurry? I am getting cold. Otherwise, do you mind rewrapping my bandages?"

Jorgarn tried to apologize again but Rayna put a battered hand to his face.

"Do not apologize again, Sir Jorgarn," she said softly. "Actually, I do not find it unpleasant to stand before you this way. And although she never provided details, Denae said you are a marvelously gentle lover."

Another tear fell from her cheek.

"Every time I have been taken, it was by force," she admitted. "Leyota found me shortly after one of my brother's friends took my purity to pay off a debt. Then those horrible men that Troch employs. I might find it gratifying to have someone attend to me gently."

Jorgarn looked at the floor when he rewrapped Rayna's thigh and took gentle care in covering her ribs and helping her on with her gown. She hugged him tightly when he finished buttoning it and cried on his shoulder.

He comforted her as best he could with the words he had heard Pernice whisper over the Alite's grave.

"No one has given more for Emertland than you have," he said. "I promise, I will make a blood oath, to find the men who defiled you and kill them! If they die before I reach them, I promise I will severe their limbs from the bodies and leave their corpse for the animals. Rayna, your purity is yours to give. It can never be taken from you. Regardless of what happened, you are a maiden still and I will kill any man or woman who says differently. Now, let me attend to your wrists so we can join the others."

After aligning the splints on Rayna's wrists and rewrapping them, he leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek again.

"That was a kiss of gratitude and friendship," he said solemnly, "and when I put my arm on your back to escort you into the King's study, it will be a sign of the affection I always held for you. Although you say there is no need, I apologize to you for forcing you to endure my inspection. I apologize to you privately now and I will apologize to you in front of everyone when we rejoin them."

She put a wrapped hand the side of Jorgarn's face and kissed him softly on the lips.

"That, Sir Jorgarn is my thanks to you for treating me with respect," she said. "I failed to understand that not all men will treat me as Pernice and you did. Instead of growing a friendship with you as so many others enjoyed, I put my own agenda ahead of what was right. Yet you treated me with respect even then. Today, I was unashamed to stand in front of you. I trust you as I trust Pernice. You have helped me even when you didn't know it."

"I bought the dress shop where I worked with coin you provided. When I was attacked and robbed, it was Leyota who convinced Fieth to track the man down and bring me justice. When I was certain that I would die, staked outside the Wallingford Manor, my only hope for salvation was Leyota or you. Rumor had reached the group that you and Pernice had returned to protect Bralan. I was glad when I heard that, for it is she I wronged most. But when I was in my darkest hour, I prayed that you hadn't. I prayed that you and Pernice were just a few miles away in Freeland and that you would find me and save me."

"When I saw three long-haired bearded men step from the woods, I was certain I was going to die. Then I remembered how you looked when I saw you last – exactly like the men who were approaching me. I thought I was delirious. Then I felt my bonds being cut. It was Chicote I recognized first. He has changed the least among you. I really didn't know Lippit much and I doubt I would have recognized him even if I had. He has changed greatly in the years, not only in appearance but in demeanor. My mouth was parched and dry. I hadn't been fed or given water in several days, but I managed to let them know Denae and Leyod were locked away in the manor. We grabbed a dress for me and fled with what we could carry. The men took turns riding behind me on the horse and kept apologizing for not having a carriage for me."

A wry smile crossed her lips.

"I would have carried them on my back to escape what those animals had planned for me," she said. "Jorgarn, I have kept the details from Leyota and the others. I ask that you do the same. The only person who knows is Vellendira and she understands: She was subjected to the same treatment when she returned to her family. They believed she had been a 'comfort woman' for your troops. Even the existence of her maidenhead didn't dissuade them. Of course her purity lasted only a few minutes after her return. They used her for a while then left her in the woods to die. She agreed to keep my secret and I agreed to keep hers. But I knew you would understand. I have heard rumors about dear, sweet Usala and Pernice's fiancée, Alite. Thank you for your pledge. I hope never to see those men again but if I do, I am now certain it will be when you bring their heads to me. I thank you, and in turn, I pledge myself to you as your vassal."

Jorgarn's eyes widened.

"There is no need for that, Rayna," he said. He was not going to allow her to pledge fealty to him and serve him until her death. "I would prefer that you become the type of friend I know you can be to Leyota, Bralan and Denae. That would be more important to me. You should remember that I have little need for a staff."

Rayna laughed slightly and nodded her thanks. Jorgarn offered his arm to her and accompanied her back to the study.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



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Chapter 45


Leyota glared at Jorgarn when he entered. He tried to defuse her anger with a smile but it didn't work. In his heart he knew it wouldn't.

"Are you satisfied?" she asked.

Jorgarn started to speak but Rayna beat him to it.

"He is but I'm not – not yet at least," she said almost in Leyota's ear. "Maybe you'll let me borrow him later ... if Bralan doesn't have his time already sewn up."

Leyota pulled back with a frown but it soften she saw the levity on Rayna's face. Leyota suspected that there was much more to the story than Rayna or Denae had let on but she didn't push them. She had secrets of her own, the biggest one Rayna had just made a joke about.

"I showed them the map you stole," Leyota said, "but I think they have some other questions."

The three of them had barely taken their seats when Landor asked the question on everyone's mind.

"How involved in Denae in this proceeding?" he wondered.

"Not at all, Your Highness," Rayna said. "The well-being of her son compelled her to leave your side. She feared that he might come to harm so she went with him. There is no affection in the marriage and very little in the household. From the time we left, Denae has expressed concern about how Frayon and his father might react. She realized her concerns were genuine about a year ago. We sought a way to get what we knew to King Landor and I had an idea. Since then, she would help me compile information to send to my cousin, Leyota Clain, in Freeland. She has been invaluable because until very recently, the families involved considered her to be a willing accomplice. Now, however, I fear her life is in danger should Emertland come under the rule of Frayon or his father."

Landor let out a sigh of relief but Torbert, who had entered after settling the Freelanders, looked worried.

"You are certain that she is not involved?" he asked pointedly. "You state that without a doubt in your mind?"

Rayna paused briefly.

"I can say it without hesitation, Sir Torbert," she said, "but ... well ... I have come to trust so few people that I can say only for certain that Sir Jorgarn, Pernice and Leyota are not involved. Those are the three people I trust absolutely. Denae does not have that distinction, I fear, because of the past we share. However, I have seen no evidence to suggest the information she provided me – and I provided you – is fabricated, nor to suggest that she holds her father in anything but the highest regard."

"Where is she now?" Torbert asked.

Rayna glanced at Leyota, who bit her lip and looked at Jorgarn.

"She is touring her mother's ancestral home," Leyota stated. "Lord Elmwood has been most helpful in many respects. When he learned an attack was looming, he gathered many of the volunteers who took part in the previous war. They accompanied us to the capital today. He also agreed to chaperone Denae until this is settled. He, his wards, Yatil and Montay, and his wife, Treene, are traveling with Denae to see the area where her mother was born and to speak to people who knew her. He also has made arrangements with some of his contacts in Swar to ensure Denae's safety if things go badly here."

Landor looked thankfully at Jorgarn, who turned to glare at Leyota.

"If I understand this correctly," he said flatly, "you enlisted the help of my father although you are not certain that Denae truly supports the King. You do realize that you have endangered not only Lord Longview, or Elmwood, whatever it is now, but also his wife and my stepbrothers. How is that a solid plan, Leyota? You know nothing of warfare. You cannot simply expect people to behave simply because the parties around them are innocents."

He looked around the room for support and found it only in Torbert's eyes. Everyone else simply glared at him.

"Sir Jorgarn, while I might not know warfare, you know nothing of your family," Leyota said stiffly. "The Squire Protector of the Manor, young Montay, is said to be as good or better than his predecessor. Lord Elmwood is aware of my misgivings and he shares them. He understands the danger involved as does his wife and your stepbrothers. As I have said to you previously when we have discussed your father, he spent many weeks at the castle while you were doing your duty. He developed a friendship with King Landor as well as a friendship with Denae. Montay will become a member of the Guard next year, again following in his predecessor's footsteps. He will be able to handle anything Denae might try as readily as you could. I would never put someone in danger without informing them unless the need was dire. Even though I believe the circumstances now exist where my conscience would be clear even if something happened to Wenta, I went to great lengths to make sure he understood what he was agreeing to and that the possibility existed for harm to come to him or his family."

Jorgarn's eye started to twitch, a certain sign his temper was fraying.

"Leyota, you acted irresponsibly regardless of how you justified it," Torbert said, sparing Jorgarn Leyota's wrath. "The first rule of conduct is that you do not put innocents into a situation where they might be harmed. Young Montay might well be as good as Jorgarn but we do not know that for certain. We also do not have anything more than Rayna's word that Denae's primary goal in this entire affair was not to be inside the castle when the battle begins. That would be tantamount to handing her the keys to the kingdom, simply because there is little way we can protect Landor at all times in here.

"The same is true for Wenta and his family. They are not warriors or soldiers. Montay might be more skilled than Jorgarn but he is not tested. I also doubt your assertions of Montay's skills are accurate. First, he has not trained with professional soldiers. Secondly, I don't believe there are many who have seen Jorgarn's true skill level. I am positive neither you nor I have seen it. I am not certain he has even reached it. I would never have put Jorgarn in a situation where he might have been required to offer defense of anyone but himself until I saw for certain that he was ready. Regardless of your rationale or the outcome, you have placed Jorgarn's family in a precarious position. I hope you realize that."

"I do realize that, damn it!" Leyota shouted. "Do you think I took this decision lightly? Do you think I didn't consider the ramifications if I am wrong about Denae? I did. I spent several sleepless nights considering Wenta's proposal before I accepted it! The alternative was to leave her in Freeland or bring her here. Neither was truly an option. Freeland was unlikely to allow her to stay there, particularly since I am not returning. There were few options and I chose the most palatable."

"If you had brought her here at least we could have locked her in the cells until this was finished and ascertained her involvement later," Torbert pointed out.

Landor looked scandalized and Leyota rolled her eyes at the Knight. Only Jorgarn appeared to think Torbert's suggestion was a viable option.

"If she had walked off that ship today she would be installed in her bedroom by this evening," Leyota said. "She would have been all sweetness and light and King Landor would never have permitted you to place her in the cells."

A single glance at Landor revealed the truth in Leyota's statement.

"Well, it is done and short of dividing our forces we will have to deal with whatever happens over there once this is concluded," Jorgarn said evenly. "But this discussion should be noted. Should Lord Elmwood's family come to harm, he or his heirs could seek restitution from Freeland or from Leyota personally. Leyota, this is the problem that exists when you refuse to discuss things with others. I am certain Fieth or your brother cautioned you about this. You are not as worldly as you seem to think you are. There are things others have seen that none us wish you to ever experience. You cannot forget that this is a civil war and Denae is at the heart of it. If the conspirators learn of her whereabouts, they may change their attack and focus on regaining her first. This was not a decision that one person should have made alone and you certainly should not have made it without a discussion with the people whose job it is to decide such things. Arbitrary decisions and people overstepping their boundaries are part of what has led us to this brink. I hope that you, too, will note this and consider it in the future."

Leyota appeared to be properly chastised. Jorgarn knew she had anguished over the decision but only because she kept so much information from other people.

"How did Denae come to be in your custody?" Landor asked.

"They rescued us," Rayna answered. "I was caught sending a letter. Leyota and I communicated using the way most young girls are taught to send notes. I used the type of ink that does not appear until it is heated. All the messages out of Troch Manor were read before they were allowed to be posted. So I would take the envelope apart and write the message there before resealing it. I never let the envelope leave my hands. I would remove the letter and hand it over to be read, then retrieve it, seal it and send it. It was only happenstance that I was caught. A clumsy guard bumped me and the envelope fell from my hand. It landed near the hearth and the heat was enough to reveal writing inside the envelope. When Leyota did not hear from me when she expected to, she sent men to find me. Denae and I were left at Wallingford to await my fate. I still do not think they believe Denae was involved. The message inside was about things I could have overheard in my role as servant."

"I'm certain her disappearance will be noted," Torbert said. "If you had escaped and left her there, perhaps they would still believe her involvement. But since she chose to leave with you, I suspect even that group is smart enough to figure out why. I am, however, glad you and she are safe. I hope you didn't mistake my previous comments to mean that I am not. Do you know the list of people involved?"

Rayna nodded silently.

"There are several I doubt you would suspect," she replied. "The areas that used to be Gobrik and Vecad are heavily invested with men at-arms and coin. The western portion of Emertland, the former lands of Domita and Longview, are not involved. Initial inquiries were rebuffed most quickly from those areas so they were left alone. Also, Blueharbor and Vanos refused: I believe that is mostly because of their proximity to Freeland, however, not out of any real love for Emertland.

"The other northern lands are heavily engaged. Thane, Wallingford, Borsik and Aybester became havens for Umbrian soldiers who fled and Vecad and Gobrik soldiers who were pardoned. Osper has little to offer but they became involved. Weming has not. He is loyal unto you probably at his peril because he is surrounded on all sides. Renoit, I am sure you know about from the traditional provinces, but also Vant and Ducotte from the east."

"Ducotte!" Jorgarn said. "Traymer would be appalled. I knew his brother was a smarmy bastard. I hope he joins the battle, the fop. I will let him know my killing stroke is in memory of his brother who was willing to die for his country and for the woman he loved."

Leyota put her hand on Jorgarn's arm. She, too, had been fond of Traymer.

"The brother was one of Denae's admirers," Leyota said. She needed say no more because everyone understood.

"Almost the entire southern region is loyal to the Crown," Rayna continued. "DeStrad is isolated but she has a vow from Tark to send aid if she is attacked. Longview, of course, sides with Bralan and so does Fieth. Fieth has been a thorn to the group because her father promised a great deal of coin which she has refused to pay. It is fortunate she is here because I doubt she will have a place to return to upon the conclusion of this. They planned to destroy her manor.

"The problem does not lie with the loyalty of the southern provincials. It lies in the inability to stop the group from crossing their territory. There is no question of Lord Commerly's allegiances. However, Brestid, Wanner, Nooth and Peth have no love for the Crown, as you know.

"The path they planned is from a staging point in eastern Wallingford, through Fairhaven and into Borsik," Rayna said as she pointed to the map on Landor's desk. Jorgarn noticed she rose stiffly, still obviously in great pain not only in her ribs and back but in her womanly regions.

"They planned to acquire as many men and arms as they can in those areas. Then they headed through Troch and south to punish Lady Fieth. They will be sorely disappointed to learn she is not there. I do fear, however, that her commoners will be forced to join the attack or die.

"They dare not cross Chamon," Rayna stated. "Melodart's family is large and the people who reside there are fiercely loyal. That leaves Commerly and into Halette before crossing Peth or heading into Renoit and Vant, through Ducotte, Nooth and into Darnot. They plan to march along the coastal road until they reach the capital."

Everyone watched as she traced the path.

"Seni is an enigma," Rayna added. "The mother is one of the few who actually sought contact with the group. I know she took her son's death very hard. Then her sons met the group's emissary at the gate of the manor with drawn swords and escorted them back the way they came. No further contact has been made, to my knowledge."

Jorgarn looked at the map with interest. Darnot was Pernice's home territory and Jorgarn had visited it many times.

"There is a spot near Pernice's village where I believe we will want to force the battle," he said thoughtfully. "King Landor, is it possible to include Pernice in this session?"

The King looked around; seemingly unaware Pernice was not there.

"Of course," Landor said. "I'm sorry. I will send someone for him."

Jorgarn offered his thanks and continued pondering the map.

"There is also the matter of Freeland," Rayna said with a pointed look toward Jorgarn. "More specifically, him."

She gestured at Jorgarn with her bandaged hands.

"They are terrified Freeland will enter the battle," she said. "They have never met anywhere near Freeland. The soldiers were housed in southern Thane and eastern Wallingford for the sole reason of keeping them away from Freeland. The last thing the group wanted to do was for Freeland to see soldiers massing on its borders and attack first."

"I tried to convince the Council we should attack anyway," Leyota said. "However, that idea was voted down. In fact, many on the Council wish Freeland to stay neutral but I'm afraid their idea held no sway with the military. Belad said they were coming with or without the Council's support."

"Will there be unrest there?" Landor asked with genuine concern.

"Oh, no," Leyota said with a smile. "The military is not beholden to the Council. It is separate and is governed by a separate Council. The Governing Council has a liaison – me – but I have no vote. Just as the Military Council's liaison has no vote in Chambers. Once Jorgarn and Pernice came down, I knew the Council could decide whatever they wanted. We would provide assistance."

"Be that as it may, I believe the conspirators are unaware that Freeland will have an active part in protecting Emertland," Rayna said. "They are aware that Jorgarn and Pernice are here – and frightened at the prospect of facing them in battle – but little has been heard about Freeland or any of the other provinces providing support. I believe the rebels are convinced they will face only your Guard, King Landor."

Jorgarn shot out his chair and raced to the window.

"Seal the capital!" he yelled.

Torbert smiled and patted his arm.

"I ordered it the moment the Freeland ships arrived," Torbert said. "No one leaves the capital – unless they wish to swim a long distance – and anyone who tries to enter will be searched for weapons and told they will not likely be permitted to leave for some weeks. Belad suggested we do that and I agreed. Posts will be inspected and no ship will be permitted to sail eastward."

Jorgarn relaxed and returned to his seat a bit embarrassed. He had never considered that someone in the capital might be sending information out of it. He shook his head.

"The rebellion has actively recruited former members of the Noble Guard," Rayna said, her eyes fixed on Jorgarn again.

"I am sure they were unsuccessful," he stated firmly. "No man who fought for the King would turn his back on him. Look out in the courtyard if you disagree."

"They have been very successful," Rayna corrected, "but not with those who went into battle. They have been contacting those who departed in dishonor and those who left of their own volition. Many of them dislike you, Jorgarn, and you, too, Sir Torbert. I mean no disrespect to either of you. I am simply stating a fact."

Jorgarn and Torbert exchanged glances and then smiles.

"I took no disrespect from your words, Rayna," Torbert said. "I find them heartening. The men who left should dislike me. I can assure you that down to a man or woman, I dislike them. It is only fair that they feel the same way."

"But that adds another element to the group's forces," Jorgarn pointed out. "These men have at least rudimentary skills. Several of them had the potential to be good soldiers if it weren't for the flaws we could not overlook."

"True," Torbert agreed, "but we released what, a dozen or less?"

"That also is true, Sir Torbert," Rayna replied. "But it is not just the fighters gained. The men who were sent home also have brought their territories into rebellion. That is just as important because the group has required a great deal of coin to purchase weapons and horses, mostly from Velotta."

"So you suggest that we just allow the Guard to behave as they wish?" Landor asked incredulously.

"I make no suggestion at all, Your Majesty," Rayna answered. "I simply pointed out that the men who once were affiliated with the Guard and then released have brought seven regions into the conflict that might have remained neutral or sided with you if their sons were still here."

"Their sons would have died in battle," Jorgarn said. "Of that I can assure you. Even if we had kept them, I would have ensured their deaths."

Rayna and Torbert each nodded as Pernice entered the room, escorted by Edelweck. The boy smiled broadly when Pernice clapped him on the shoulder and thanked him. Pernice nodded to everyone in the room, even Rayna, before taking a seat beside Leyota. Leyod immediately climbed upon Pernice's lap and started playing with his beard. Even Landor chuckled for a moment before returning to the discussion at hand.

"The addition of those scorned by the Guard is not a bad thing altogether," Rayna continued. "They do bring experience. But they bring something else – an abiding fear of Jorgarn and Pernice. The men who left all know for a fact that they cannot defeat either of these men even two or perhaps even three on one. The tales might have been stretched upon occasion but I watched from the ramparts for many months so I do not believe they were stretched by much. The Umbrians already fear 'Yerk The Destroyer' and his men. Pernice, you should be happy to know that you are referred to as 'Drec Eque' which translates loosely to 'Right Arm'."

Pernice smiled slightly at his former fiancée.

"Vellendira told me," he said. "She did not seem to think that being the right arm of an animal was quite the compliment you find it to be. Yerk means 'beast' or 'brute'."

Everyone in the room with the exception of Leyota and Bralan, who already knew what it meant, raised their eyes and nodded.

"So, having Pernice and Jorgarn here – and having the group know they are here – means there is already a great fear rampant in the conspirators," Rayna concluded.

"Which means they will run at first contact or fight three times as hard," Pernice said. "Sadly, one never knows which it will be until it is too late."

"Well, it has hindered the recruitment efforts at any rate," Rayna said. "The original goal was to march into the capital with 300 men. That was never a possibility. There are not 300 men on the landmass willing to face the prospect of dying for little gain. They hoped for 150, which would be twice or three times the size of your Guard in their estimation. At last count, which was three weeks ago, they had 60 men. I am certain that they will have more by the time they arrive but the vast majority of the newcomers will be conscripts who have little taste for battle."

"A man can be compelled into battle," Jorgarn said. He couldn't help the glance he gave to Leyota and Marnit and then Bralan, who sat on her other side.

"I agree," Pernice said, "but these men will know that once the tide turns, there is no reason for them to continue. The hard part will be identifying which is which. If it were me, I would mix the seasoned fighters in with the newcomers to provide stability. But unless the man in control of the field is a strategist, I would wager he will send the conscripts to the front and hope to keep his best warriors in the back – closest to him."

Jorgarn pondered for a moment before standing and looking at the map.

"Which will make no difference," he said, "because we will attack him from all sides at once – at a spot about 5 miles from your home, Pernice. I feel saddened that it will despoil that beautiful view of the ocean."

Pernice saw where Jorgarn was pointing.

"They plan to come through Darnot?" he asked. "They will have a battle on their hands before we even reach them."

"Which is why they plan to hide in the woods along the road during the day and move only at night," Rayna said. "Where you are pointing, is that where I think it is?"

Pernice nodded without looking up.

"Does it have to be there?" he asked.

"No," Jorgarn said. "But I think it is fitting. Don't you? We settle this on the spot where you spent the finest day of your life. Alite will be avenged where she promised to be your wife."

Pernice considered for a moment then nodded.

"It will be justice," he said. "I will honor my oath."

"And I, mine," Jorgarn said with barely a glance toward Rayna, "and I, mine, my friend."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



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Chapter 46


It was late that evening, well past dark, when Leyota tracked Jorgarn down. He was meeting with Pernice and Torbert. She wasn't surprised.

"A packet arrived on a late ship from your father," she said as she handed it to Jorgarn. He saw it was addressed to Leyota but it was in Denae's handwriting. He also noticed it was unopened.

"It is to you," Jorgarn said simply. Leyota didn't meet Jorgarn's eyes when she spoke.

"I am wary of what it might contain," she admitted. "Wenta and I always corresponded in the Longview language. Ronac would transcribe it for me if there were portions I didn't understand. There is no reason this should be written any differently. I know your father is barely literate in Emerti. Would you open it, please?"

Jorgarn took a long look at the missive before breaking the wax seal. He sighed before he read the words aloud.

"Former members of the Dometian cavalry arrived too late to board the ships to the capital," he read aloud. "They will arrive as soon as transport can be arranged for their horses. He expects it will be another day."

Leyota realized she had been holding her breath. Jorgarn put his arm around her shoulder and hugged her tenderly.

Pernice took no notice as he was used to seeing Jorgarn and Leyota together. But Torbert cocked an eyebrow. He had seen Jorgarn comfort Bralan this way during their recent time at the castle. Leyota noticed Torbert's expression instantly.

She sighed again.

"I was his wife," she said simply. "Marnit is his daughter."

"Was?" Pernice and Torbert asked at the same instant.

"We want no hint of impropriety on Bralan's character," Leyota said. There was a trace of sadness in her voice. "No one can know, but I am still his wife in all ways that matter. I will continue to be while I am here, although I will deny it if asked. There is no record of our marriage in Freeland. I removed the page from the book. I think we all agree Bralan would never consent to marry another."

Pernice bit the inside of his lip to quell a smile.

"Well, you said she had a plan," he said as the grin broke through, "but I will admit I didn't think it would be this one."

"Although it is tradition, there is no statutory limit to the number of wives a man may have," Torbert said. "Nor how many husbands a woman may have, although I could never see why anyone would want more than one of either."

Pernice laughed again.

"Or even one for some people," he said.

Leyota shot him a glance.

"So if Bralan wishes to marry Jorgarn, no shame will attach to her," Torbert continued. "Providing Jorgarn's other wives agreed and she did not do something stupid – such as have a child before they wed. But your way might be best, if you can stand it. What of Marnit? Do you plan for Jorgarn never to claim her?"

"She better not plan that!" Jorgarn snapped. "She will be sorely disappointed if that is what she hopes."

"I do not," Leyota protested. "Although there is no record of marriage, there are many who can verify we lived as husband and wife for almost a year. It is not so much Marnit I worry about. It is the future children that I must consider. Bralan refuses to allow them to be considered illegitimate."

Torbert looked to Jorgarn with a hint of anger.

"Oh, Jorgarn does, too," Leyota said. "He is completely against this idea and has been from the beginning. But he recognizes that it is the only way for it to work. Perhaps I will discuss with Bralan the prospect of having a multiple marriage."

"Plural," Torbert corrected. "It is called a plural marriage. It was practiced often during our periods of long wars. There were times when the number of women far exceeded the number of men. I believe a case can be made for that now, given the number of men who departed for Freeland. How is that working up there, with so many more men than women? For some reason, women seem easier to convince to share than men."

"It is working about as we expected," Leyota confirmed. "We have admitted many Umbrian refugees in the past months, mostly women whose husbands either fled or fell – many with children, which is something else we lacked. Our population is above 600 now, although I suspect some will stay behind in Emertland."

"I will," Pernice confirmed.

Leyota graced him with a warm smile.

"That was never in doubt, my friend," she said. "If I had any doubts, they were removed when I saw Saneth and Astid hanging off your arms today."

Pernice's eyes widened and he looked at Torbert, perhaps preparing to defend himself.

"Another reason for Landor to institute plural marriages, at least within the capital," Torbert said. "It will save a fist fight between my daughter and Lady Fieth."

He laughed aloud.

"That will be interesting, indeed," he said. "I wonder who trumps whom: a Knight with a Queen and a Queen Maker or a Baron with two Ladies."

Neither Jorgarn nor Pernice offered a reply and Leyota changed the subject.

"I apologize for surprising you by bringing Rayna, Pernice," she said. "I hope it did not cause you undue heartache."

Pernice shrugged.

"It truly didn't," he answered. "I was surprised to see her but not disappointed. I am angry that she was harmed and I wish her well. I realized after I met Alite that Rayna and I did not have what I always assumed we did. We cared for one another and I suppose we would have done well with the other, but it was far less than what Alite and I shared. I suppose I mean that I am not disappointed to see her again nor am I excited."

Leyota nodded warmly, relieved that she had not hurt her friend.

"I did notice that both Saneth and Astid clutched themselves to you tightly when she appeared," she joked. "I believe that might have added to your lack of disappointment. Now, if you do not mind, I would like to spend some time with my child's father."

-------

Leyota took Jorgarn's arm as they walked down the corridor to their suite of rooms they would share with Bralan.

"Bralan does not seem in her usual spirits," Leyota said. "Is there something amiss between the two of you? I hope she will not mind sharing her bed partner tonight."

Jorgarn stopped short and pulled Leyota with him.

"We are getting to know one another again," he told her. "We do not share a bed, nor will we for the foreseeable future. She is nervous about your arrival. I believe she has been worried that you – or I – have changed our minds. She has been increasingly distant most of the day."

"You haven't changed your mind, have you?" Leyota asked quietly.

"I didn't realize that was an option for me," Jorgarn replied. "This was another of those decisions you made without input from those it affects. But I realize that I do care deeply for Bralan and I do want to see her happy."

"As do I," Leyota told him. "The night we shared together was fun. There has been little fun in my life, less than ever since you left."

"I worry that it will not always be fun," Jorgarn answered. "But Bralan is right about some things. I would leave her if you asked."

"Which I won't," Leyota said firmly. "I had hoped that you and she would use this time to establish a sort of marriage of your own. I do not want her to feel inferior in the relationship – just as I don't want any of us to feel superior to the others. We must work together to make this succeed. I am sorry that nothing has developed between you."

"We have renewed our friendship," Jorgarn pointed out as they began walking again.

"You were never friends," Leyota claimed. "She was in awe of you until she grew to know you a little. Then she lusted after you. After she grew to know you fully, she fell in love with you. I can see that she still feels that way. I can also tell that you feel that way toward her."

"Perhaps," he admitted, "but it is not as fully developed as what I feel for you. I am not saying that it won't be in time. We have had to develop two sets of relationships at once. Neither of us want to rush into something that might cause you pain. I think Bralan and I realize the slope we're on is perilous, more so than do you. That surprises me because I am the one who tends to think less about long-term consequences."

-------

Bralan was standing at the lone window in the suite's common area when Jorgarn and Leyota arrived. She could see the Freeland troops milling around in town, getting reacquainted with some of the people they remembered, perhaps even loved. It bothered Bralan greatly that she couldn't seem to remember many of the men and women she had served with. They were just random faces or names with no connection to shared events. Several she had no recollection of ever meeting, let alone riding into battle with.

This was not the person she wanted to be. If becoming the Heiress meant forgetting the names and faces of people who would have been willing to give their lives for her, she would not do it. She refused to turn into a person who believed her life held more value than someone else's.

Jorgarn noticed Bralan's posture when he entered; he saw her distress but he misread the underlying reason. Still, she relaxed when she felt his strong arms encircle her from behind. She felt his lips on her cheek when she put her head back on his shoulder.

Jorgarn would know how to keep that from happening to her, Bralan thought. It had not happened to him. He held perhaps even less artifice now than when she met him. He remembered faces and names and battles or ales shared. He recalled details about the men's children or the women's mothers. He never seemed too busy to stop for a moment to speak to someone. If he was, he didn't renege on his promise to return to speak to them later. She turned her head and kissed Jorgarn softly on the neck as she put her hands atop his on her sides.

"Thank you," she whispered.

"Never a need to thank me for doing something I wanted to do anyway," Jorgarn replied softly. "You seem troubled. There is nothing to worry about. I will always be here for you."

"You will be," she confirmed, not just to him but to herself. "I realize that. You will be here for me and I will be here for you. It bothers me that I don't recall some of the men and women who have come to fight for us. It bothers me that I might come to view myself as others in power have come to view themselves. Please stop me if you see that."

She felt the laughter before she heard Jorgarn's soft chuckle. She couldn't decipher if it held mirth or sadness.

"You have not yet met many of the people here," he said in a gentle tone. "You were fevered from your wound when they arrived as replacements. Some of them joined us even after you were sent back here. The rest of them, well, I doubt they look as you recall them. You remember that Alite and Usala insisted upon cleanliness. They said many diseases could be avoided with basic hygiene and consideration. So they kept our hair and beards trimmed and made sure we washed our clothing and bodies regularly. When they were killed most of us stopped cutting our hair and beards. Beneath the beards are the faces you remember. Almost all the women who are here now came when you were injured."

"There were only seven women deemed fit to travel with us originally and only four of those were warriors. Alite and Usala went as medics. Telan went as a cook. You, Sahda Wem, Wrennda Anic and Macelldie Moroith were the warriors. You will not find Telan, Sahda or Wrennda here. They are buried in Umbrian soil. I am not certain if Macelldie has come or not, but I doubt you would recognize her if she did. She is no longer warrior lean. She has become, uh, rather buxom as she has aged. But you would remember her red hair, I am certain."

Bralan had unconsciously nodded as Jorgarn had said the names. She shuddered when she realized that five of the seven women she had shared so much with were dead. Three of the four women she had watched share pleasure were now gone. She thought back to the night when she had shared a bed – and much more – with Leyota and Jorgarn. He had heard her words but had not mentioned her friends' deaths.

"Where is Leyota?" Bralan asked softly.

"I am here," said a voice from behind Jorgarn. Bralan turned and found her friend smiling broadly, her hand resting on Jorgarn's back. Bralan returned the smile but noticed that Jorgarn's arms still held her. She opened her own arms so Leyota could join the embrace.

"May I assume you would like to share your husband's chamber tonight?" Bralan asked with a smile and a wink.

"I am not certain that is a good idea, Your Highness," Leyota giggled with a mock curtsy. "I had planned for you to attend to his manly needs in my absence but it appears you have been remiss. I fear it will be two more weeks before I may safely accept his manhood into my flower – or even my rear. Childbirth, it seems, is a painful, bloody process. I was unaware of that fact until the time came. I suppose I am one of few women who had never witnessed it, nor even spoken of it. Sadly, there were few who could offer me the facts before it came my time to deliver."

Bralan noticed Leyota's face still held a warm, inviting smile and her eyes glistened with happiness. Jorgarn, however, had gone rigid.

"It was fine, dear," Leyota said, "a few hours of pain for a lifetime of happiness. It is worth it, I can assure you. The first moment I saw Marnit, the pain was forgotten."

"You will remember it the first time she displeases you," Bralan joked. "My mother, my real mother, used to hold her hours of torment over our heads like a hangman's noose. Every time one of us would commit a transgression she would lower it around our necks."

Her voice changed into a whine.

"'I went through nine months of agony and a full day of torture to bring you into this world'," Bralan repeated. "'How can you treat your mother so?' It grew tiresome as we aged but it was effective until I turned seven or so. I will remind you of your words tonight if you ever seek to shame Marnit this way."

Leyota laughed brightly and wrapped her arms tighter around the pair.

"It does sound like a powerful weapon to lose but I suppose it is for the best," she said. "I am glad you are relaxed more now. You seemed so staid and tense all day."

"It is a tense time," Bralan said, her face becoming serious.

"Which only means that humor is all the more important," Leyota countered. "I have always counted upon your smile in dark times. I believe others rely upon it too."

Leyota dug her fingers into Jorgarn's ribs and he squirmed.

"We have Jorgarn to provide the gloom," Leyota said. "You are needed to offset his dreariness; otherwise we would all walk around all day weeping for our fate."

As if to show she was partially joking, she kissed Jorgarn's chin – then tickled him again.

"Does the battle plan progress?" Bralan asked to change the subject.

"It does," Jorgarn replied. "Leyota brought news which shall make it easier. The Cavalry comes soon. We will use them and the Rangers as we did in Gobrik and then again in Umbria. The insurgents may try to hide during the day but they shall find little rest. We will send them out to locate the enemy as soon as possible and finalize our plans once we know how rapidly they progress. We might find it possible to defend Fieth Manor."

Bralan nodded then extricated herself from the embrace.

"Let us sit for a few moments and dispense with our serious topics," Bralan stated. She was gratified when Jorgarn and Leyota each complied without a word and while wearing grave faces.

"While you were discussing military matters, I met with Landor, Lorida and Eslada to discuss political concerns," she told them. "I doubt many of the Lords who support this unrest will show themselves. We have Rayna's list and we ask that you attempt to capture at least three of their leaders alive. Do not worry, Jorgarn, their lives will be short but we require information from them. Jorgarn, you will need to make yourself available for Tribunal in the morning. They will vote to confirm me as Heir and then we will vote to strip several people of their holdings."

She paused for a moment.

"What have you noticed about the Northern lands that is opposite from the way Domita and Longview were handled?" she asked.

Leyota considered the question but Jorgarn answered immediately.

"Domita and Longview were not viewed as captured lands," he said simply. "The land holdings were awarded to families who already had ties to them. Vecad, Gobrik and Salaria were treated as earned territory and their lands divided among people who could be viewed as occupiers. It is also true that Domita and Longview were never conquered. Their people were never subject to losing a war and having a foreign force dictate the terms of their capitulation."

Leyota looked to the wall for a few seconds.

"I hadn't realized that," she said thoughtfully. "I have wondered why the Western holdings sent troops to aid while the Northern sent troops to invade. That makes it much clearer to me."

"How do we keep this from happening again?" Bralan asked. She already knew what would be suggested in the morning but she wanted to ensure that neither Leyota nor Jorgarn had a fresh perspective that had not yet been considered. Their thought processes differed greatly, not only from each other but from the group who had met with the King.

"Landor should have installed people in those lands whom he could trust," Jorgarn again said quickly. "I am unsure how he chose those who held power but he chose poorly. A strong leader could have rallied the new citizens in one of two ways. He could have done all in his power to ensure that Emertland was a welcoming place by assisting in rebuilding the territory and listening to its residents' concerns. I would suspect that the few territories that send no troops were handled this way."

"However, it seems most treated the populace as his or her private labor force," Jorgarn continued, shaking his head sadly. "That breeds unrest. It should have been noted to the Lords and Ladies that it was the army that was defeated, not the citizens. I believe that many of the newly created landholders allowed the areas to become a place where displaced soldiers landed not because they wanted it to be that way but because their actions permitted it. I would surmise that many of the Northern landholders found it quite a shock when they realized they could be toppled quickly by those they viewed as their subjects. They were faced with the prospect of anarchy, which would have come if they ignored the problem, or capitulation, which is what happened when they employed the soldiers or sought assistance from richer, more established landholders – such as Renoit, Fieth and Troch."

"That explains the situation but not how to keep it from happening again," Leyota pointed out.

"You have to understand how it happened before you can change the scenario," Jorgarn replied. "If Landor succeeds in stripping the titles, he has two options again. He can grant independence to the areas in rebellion. That is not a viable option, in my opinion, because it isolates several territories that are proving to be successful additions. Short of that, he must choose men and women who will not seek to use the title as means of gaining wealth or prestige."

Leyota snorted. Having come from a family that produced Riset, she doubted King Landor would find many nobles who did not want to grab for all they could reasonably – or unreasonably – get.

"Jorgarn has hit on the solution we will suggest to the Tribunal," Bralan said, obviously pleased. "Landor has agreed to take the unprecedented step of presenting his candidates before a group of five people. We believe this will ensure the new landholders are the sort who will put Emertland first. Four of the five must agree before Landor will make an appointment."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes and shook his head at Bralan.

"You and Leyota have explained the reasons why we went to war in broader terms than I believed," he said. "I always thought a country went to war because someone had attacked it. I understood that reason because there are few nuances to it and it is how I would respond to an attack. Now I can see the other reasons I was sent off to battle. But the same group of advisers who recommended we invade Salaria were likely the ones who suggested the new landholders. I do not know many of Landor's advisers. They avoid me because I refuse to cater to their whims or because they fear me. I don't care which it is because I find most of them to be insufferable in any event. The more I have learned of them, the less I care for them. If Landor truly wants to make Emertland better, he should begin by replacing those from whom he seeks advice."

Bralan smiled and shook her head. She and Jorgarn had spoken on the underlying reasons for the wars in the north – briefly at times and at length during others – but she was never sure if he was listening to her or simply placating her. She now knew his silence during those discussions was because he was taking in the information and processing it, not because he found her concerns groundless.

"Which is also happening," Bralan said. "Do either of you know how the King's advisers are chosen?"

"I assume it was how Denae chose hers," Jorgarn replied.

"Not quite," Leyota offered. "But I believed she followed his example. I have come to agree that it was a poor way to select a staff."

Bralan sighed and pursed her lips.

"The problem is not with how they were chosen but when," she said. "Both Landor and Denae were too young to understand the ramifications of their choices. Denae's choice of Rayna as her lead attendant was historic. Never before had a commoner held such a high position. If she would have held the same spot when Denae was crowned, it would have been unprecedented. But there are other reasons why Denae's original staff would be considered unusual. Only one member of her staff – Usala – would have inherited a title."

"You would have," Jorgarn said. "I mean, eventually. You are heir to the Longview estate."

"Out of necessity more than out of desire," Bralan confessed. "Eslada is still young and plans to wed. She would prefer her own children to hold the land and neither Drosset nor I felt slighted because we would not have inherited the title in our first family either. Eslada named me her heir to force Landor's hand. She knew it would be unnecessary for me to actually claim the lands. If Landor had chosen someone else to succeed him, I would have forfeited Longview to Eslada's natural child."

Bralan saw the look on Jorgarn's face and spoke again.

"Yes, I understood you would find these machinations distasteful," she said sadly, "but I could not be considered for the post I expect to be awarded tomorrow without first being in line to succeed a landholder. It was necessary, although it took much convincing for me to agree."

"And Torbert calls you the Queen Maker," Jorgarn said to Leyota.

"Leyota had a hand in it, I'm certain," Bralan interrupted. "I believe that she and Eslada started to put this together well before Denae was forced to step down."

"We knew she would have to be replaced," Leyota said defensively. "We knew her actions would lead to great distrust not only among her friends but among the citizens. There were already rumors and mutterings about the 'Slattern Queen'. We discussed ways to ensure Emertland survived a scandal. That is all."

Bralan snorted.

"Discussed?" she asked rhetorically. "No, you fomented a plan and picked me as her successor. I do not doubt you had my best interests and the best interests of Emertland at heart. I am simply thankful that you did not usurp Denae's title but instead waited for Landor to take it from her. Although I am certain the former was considered as well."

Leyota's flush gave Bralan her answer.

"I knew of Eslada's ruse with the Longview lands but it was not until today that I suspected she had thought about this much more thoroughly than I believed," Bralan told them. "It was during our discussion this afternoon that it occurred to me that many of Eslada's arguments sound more like Leyota's reasoning than Eslada's impulsiveness. It must have taken you many weeks to sway Eslada from seeking more direct action."

"Months, bordering closely upon a year," Leyota said with a frown.

"And now you wish to insert yourself as my adviser to ensure I follow along with what you and Eslada have plotted?" Bralan asked, her gaze narrowing at Leyota. "Why did you simply not take the Crown for yourself?"

"No!" Leyota cried. "It was never about me or what I wanted. It was never about Eslada or what she wanted. It was about making sure Emertland had the best person to rule it. You were that person. You are that person. If you do not wish me near, I will not be near."

"You gave me your husband to ensure that you would always have a voice here," Bralan pointed out.

"I offered you Jorgarn as your Knight because he is the best to protect you," Leyota pleaded. "And because you love him. It was not to ensure that I had a post to guide you – or him."

A smile cracked Bralan's hardened façade.

"I would never believe you except for the fact that Jorgarn rarely listens to anyone," Bralan said. "He ignores you, me, Eslada, Landor, the Creator. He follows his own counsel – well, his own counsel and the counsel of his friends. They all think alike anyway, so it is the same thing. I do not believe that Pernice, Chicote, Elobert, Ronac or Mino has had a single thought in five years that differed. I apologize for seeming to accuse you. I simply wanted to point out that there are others in the room who are as smart as you are."

"I never believed either of you to be less smart than I am," Leyota said. Although Bralan had not made her statements in seriousness, they caused Leyota distress, nonetheless. None hurt more than her last.

"Dear, I love you," Jorgarn said. "You know that, I hope. But you constantly make remarks about my slowness of acuity."

"I make jokes," Leyota said. "Jokes, Jorgarn. My remarks are in jest and only to those who know they are in jest. When I was but a girl, in my first days in the castle, I sat and listened to you explain why the forestry industry around the capital would cease in a few years. I took your facts into consideration and I investigated them. They were absolutely accurate. Obviously, I was not in a position where I could change it so instead I watched it happen exactly as you had said it would."

"I helped the only way I could," she continued. "I went to the wives and mothers of the men who worked for the business and urged them to save their coin rather than spend it foolishly because the high wages were to be short-lived. Some listened to me and others didn't. Those who listened survived when the industry failed. The ones who didn't listen found themselves seeking a handout. There have been countless times when I have heard you in a similar discussion and you are almost always right. You rarely offer an opinion if you are not certain of it. But my point is, since perhaps the third time I met you, I never found myself thinking of you as anything less than brilliant. You sometimes hide behind your size and your reputation but those of us who know you understand there is more to you than that. If I have hurt you, I sincerely apologize. I never meant to give you the impression that I was sincere by those words."

Jorgarn let out a long breath. He had always felt inferior to Leyota in decision-making. She had chided him often by telling him that he was "frequently wrong, but seldom uncertain." She saw the look on his face.

"It was the only way I could think of myself as an equal," she said, almost in tears. "I was so desperate to have you rely on me as much as I rely upon you that I pushed it farther than I should have. But I never truly believed it and no one else did either. I will swear upon my life that I never uttered an unkind word about you to anyone who did not know it was in jest – except perhaps to you. I am sorry. I hope I did not plant doubt in your mind. It was never my intent and I would have stopped if I had even considered the possibility."

Tears started to fall freely from Leyota's eyes and Jorgarn moved across to comfort her. Her head was on her chest and she did not raise it to meet his gaze.

"Well, it is heartening to know that at least someone does not view me as a dim-witted brute," he said with what he hoped was a light voice.

"My love, I want you to know that in almost every instance, I have followed your advice," Leyota said. "Even when you were gone, I would always try to consider what you would say before I acted. I usually only follow my own ideas on things you do not care about or things you have made no mention of. Even on things we disagree about I invariably find myself doing what you would do."

Jorgarn lifted Leyota's chin and kissed her lightly on the lips.

"So because you knew I would react unfavorably to this plan to promote Bralan, you kept it from me," he said.

Leyota tilted her head until it rested upon his shoulder.

"I knew you would eventually agree that I was right about this," she told him. "You agree with me now: Bralan is the right choice. She is respected by everyone. I would wager than even those in revolt hold her in high esteem. I didn't tell you because we had to get to this point with a minimum of friction. Jorgarn, you can sometimes be stubborn."

Bralan, who had tried to be unobtrusive as Leyota spoke, snorted loudly.

"Stubborn?" she asked. "I believe a better word would be intractable. Once he decides upon a course of action, he does not alter it unless he is forced to. Even then he is just as likely to go through you as around you. In this, my sweet, I agree with your wife. You are needed here and you would not be here if she had told you a year ago. Leyota, you are also needed here. I have already selected those who will advise me. I admit it is premature because I am not yet the Heiress so I will ask you keep this to yourself until I have time to discuss it with each young woman privately. Astid and Saneth will be asked to join me. You three will hold the major roles in my cabinet."

"What of their holdings?" Jorgarn asked. "You expect them to give up their titles to serve as your adviser?"

Bralan and Leyota laughed but not maliciously.

"Just as it is a bigger honor to be a Knight than a Lord, it is a bigger honor to be an adviser to the Monarch than to hold a title," Bralan said. "Every man on the King's staff is a titleholder – either now or in the past. Esselrig is the sole man who still retains his property, although it is run by a steward in his absence. The other four have given up their titles as their children have come of age. I'm sorry, I thought you knew that. I sometimes forget that you were not raised here. The problem with the King's advisers is something I wish to avoid with mine. Jorgarn, how do you decide whether to accept a man's counsel?"

Jorgarn thought for a moment.

"Some, like Pernice, I connected with almost instantly," he said. "I knew from the moment I met him that I would wish him to be my friend. Others, like Belad, impressed me from the beginning also, but it took me longer to trust him. His actions earned him my trust. The others, I suppose the nobles now that I think about it, earned my trust when they shook off their former ideas and adapted to new ones. Leyota, your brother almost died the first day I met him. I doubt he has told you of our initial meeting but it took several weeks before we grew close. The same is true with Fieth. The marks on my back were caused by Lippit and delivered by Seni. I still mourn Seni's death as strongly as I mourn Melodart's. I suppose the only thing that is equal in all their cases is the fact that I trusted them once and they proved my trust well placed."

"But you did not trust them solely because they were your friends," Bralan said. "Jorgarn, I don't mean this badly, but you had little experience with friendship before you arrived. You would have been apt to befriend anyone who showed a single kindness. Instead, you befriended only those you were certain you could trust. King Landor did the opposite. He has placed his trust in men who were his friends growing up. As Queen, I will trust those who have the health of the country first in their hearts – women like Leyota.

"Still, although the majority of Emertland saw no need to go to war, we went – because Landor's men have the interests of their holdings and their children's holdings at the foremost of their thoughts. The Salarian pirates created problems for only a small portion of Emertland. The coastal regions and those nearest the coastal regions saw an increase in shipping costs. The problem is that three of the King's most trusted friends, Esselrig, Halette and Karik, are responsible for those regions. Their purses were hurt, so we took Salaria. You are right when you say they recommended those elevated to landholder. They were associates or people to whom they owed a favor or to whom their children owed a favor.

"No one was surprised by this because none of the King's advisers has seen fit to send men to fight for him. They will send no men this time, either. The holders of Elmwood, Stonebridge, Oceanview, Clearwater, Highmountain and Greenmeadow send their men. Lady Gomec sends men. Lord Stimok sends horses. A foreign country, Tark, sends archers. Our neighboring territories send nothing and complain of the cost of it all. Their only concern is passing on land to their children's children and maintaining their prestige. The men were most displeased that Denae did not accept their daughters or granddaughters as potential candidates for her staff. They seem to think that their positions are a birthright along with their landholdings. Their children complain about the cost of fighting a war even though they complained about the cost of not fighting a war. They create more problems than they solve."

"But neither Saneth nor Astid have children," Jorgarn pointed out. "Who will shepherd their holdings?"

"They will appoint someone," Bralan said. "You have never spent time on an estate other than your father's. Very few Lords or Ladies take an active role in the day-to-day affairs. They already have someone on their staffs who attends to such things. Saneth was fortunate. She was able to bring in those displaced by Leyota's sister's gain."

"I am happy that those my father trusted have found employment," Leyota said. "I worried for them, but I could do nothing. Neither mother nor I have coin of our own and most of Jorgarn's was already allocated."

"Yes, I am sure both of my Konecs were tied up," Jorgarn joked. "We are a sad group, are we not? The only person in our family with anything is Merg the Miserly. He is tight with his purse, let me tell you."

Both Leyota and Bralan laughed.

"Merg is like his mentor," Leyota said with a kiss on Jorgarn's cheek. "He saves his money for worthwhile ventures. You actually have coin, Jorgarn. I hope you have not lacked for anything because I did not keep you informed of your wealth. You once told me that so long as you knew you could afford to eat the next day then you did not wish an accounting. I would have told you if we could not afford to eat."

Jorgarn smiled at Leyota.

"Wealth?" he asked. "You mean I have four Konecs instead of two? Off my lap, I am off to the tavern to treat the men and woo the women."

"You own the tavern," Leyota said shyly. "The keeper has already been told to provide them food and ale within reason and to refuse their coin."

"I what?" Jorgarn asked. "How did I come to own the tavern? How did I come to have any coin at all?"

"Many ways," Leyota said. "You earned a wage as a Knight – a substantial wage, actually. You gained coin as Lord Tremaine. Although there is no manor, the residents paid taxes to you – or they did until I stopped it. You also earned coin by leading the war efforts and there was a sizeable bonus for each land you captured for the Crown. Also, your ... well, your father sent you some. Actually, he sent you a great deal of it. He took your advice about the cost of sheep versus the cost of wool. He sent you a significant portion of the profits he has earned. He continues to send them, by the way. When it came time for us to form Freeland, many people wanted to go but lacked the funds. I bought their holdings from them in your name and hired people to run them. You own the smithy and the apothecary. You owned Rayna's dress shop although she repaid you when she sold it. Ironically, she paid you with money from the Troch family when she agreed to be Denae's governess.

"I bought only things that would suffer slightly by a poor economy. I would wager that you have more money than the Crown does at this point. The King's businesses tend to suffer when the supply of coin is short. The people who run your businesses are more willing to barter. I befriended many people during your leave, Jorgarn. I spent much of my time in and around the people of the capital. The ships that transported us from Freeland to here were from Tark only because the ones you own already had cargoes. Besides, it was gratifying to see Merg the Miser part with some of his earnings. It was important to him and his friends to be able to contribute since they elected to remain behind."

Jorgarn looked at Bralan.

"Did you know this?" he asked.

She shrugged but then nodded.

"Eslada attends to your affairs down here," she said. "I was made aware of your holdings but I was also cautioned about your lack of interest in them. I hope this does not mean you plan to grow fat and lazy because you are a wealthy gentleman."

"I suppose at some point, you will have to explain all this to me," he said. "But for now, I believe I should retire for the night. It appears that my schedule for tomorrow will be quite full."

"May I join you two tonight?" Bralan asked with hesitation. "I will understand if you wish a night alone. I am sure you have missed the other."

"I have missed you, too," Leyota said as her beautiful smile crept across her face. "And it appears Jorgarn has not taken advantage of having you to himself. That is his loss. I would find it very nice to spend the night with you both. But we must just sleep. Can we promise that?"

Bralan relaxed and returned Leyota's smile.

"I have simply slept for the entirety of my life except for one night with you," she said. "I believe I can last a few weeks until you feel up to something else."

"Oh, I feel up to it now," Leyota said. "However, I do not think Vellendira would be pleased. She made me swear upon my honor that I would refrain from such activities regardless of my inclination. So I shall.

"But that is no reason for you and Jorgarn to miss out. If you wish to learn of the other in my presence, I will not mind."

She lifted her eyebrows suggestively.

"Perhaps later in the week," Bralan said with a blush. "Tonight, let us simply enjoy the other's warmth."

"I must go to where Eslada sleeps to provide Marnit her milk before we retire," Leyota said. "I will rejoin you in a few minutes."

"Why is she with Eslada?" Jorgarn asked. "There is ample room for her here. She does not require much space, I'm certain."

"Eslada and Lorida offered to allow Marnit to spend tonight with them so she could rest comfortably and quietly," Leyota explained. "The trip has made her cranky and I feared she would get no rest tonight with us."

Bralan shook her head but smiled.

"Bring her to be fed here," Bralan told her. "Let tonight be the first of many nights we all share this chamber and this suite. Do you need Jorgarn to fetch the tiny bed she sleeps in?"

"It rolls," Leyota said proudly as she exited the chamber.

She returned in a few moments pushing the bed.

"The wheels were Nelida's idea," Leyota crowed as she lifted the baby and lowered her gown. The baby latched on to the proffered nipple and sucked greedily. "The crib is made from the finest wood in Freeland – the wood of Merg's longbows. The wheels are a set of pulleys from a pair of broken crossbows. My brother and Fieth, along with most everyone else spent weeks carving it. Everyone in Freeland had a hand in creating it. Marnit is the first child born in Freeland. She will maintain her citizenship there even while we reside here."

"As will I," Jorgarn said.

"Yes, Jorgarn informed Landor that he was not his king and that that he would remain a citizen of Freeland," Bralan said with a slight grimace. "I believed we would come to blows in our early weeks here. I do not wish to see Jorgarn angry again. I believe Landor was in peril."

Leyota seemed surprised. The King had been most cordial to her. He had not appeared to have changed from the friendly man she knew when she lived in the castle previously. If anything, he was friendlier than just before she left.

"Ah, well," Jorgarn stammered. "It needed to be said."

"It apparently needed to be said angrily and loudly," Bralan said. "I will do my utmost to never push you to that point, Jorgarn."

Leyota cut in before Jorgarn could reply.

"What did Landor say about Jorgarn that angered him so?" she wondered.

"About Jorgarn? Nothing," Bralan answered. "Jorgarn accepted the slights with nary a word. It was remarks about Pernice and me that brought out Jorgarn's temper. When he commanded we leave, even Pernice hustled out."

Leyota smirked slightly.

"Oh, he can be ghastly at times, but there is little to fear from his temper," she said as the smirk turned into a smile.

"I would wager you have not seen him this angry," Bralan stated, "for if you had, you would not smile about it. It was frightening even to Pernice. I gather Pernice has seen it but four times before – when they found the bodies of the captured women."

"My actions were justified, I believe," Jorgarn said. "Landor refused to accept the fact that he failed to stop the actions that could have prevented this atrocity. He seemed to think that he was doing Bralan a good turn by allowing her to succeed him. He seemed to believe that Pernice was a simple fisherman's son from Darnot. I disabused him of those notions. Still, it has been a difficult time until this morning."

"As late as last night, Landor planned to leave your troops on the ships and use solely the Guard for battle," Bralan said as she picked up the tale. "He wanted Torbert to lead the battle and Jorgarn to remain behind. As of this morning, I was going to seek refuge on your ship with Pernice as my guard. There was a very real chance that the last time you would have seen your husband was the day he left Freeland and that Marnit would grow up with only stories to let her know her sire."

Leyota's mouth dropped.

"What happened?" Leyota asked angrily. "I can't believe men can be so stupid."

"Pernice said he would invade Emertland and kill all the nobles," Bralan recounted dispassionately. "He said he would make me the first Queen of Freeland because Emertland would be no more if Landor's arrogance caused Jorgarn's death. He meant it. Torbert then told Landor how ridiculous the idea was. Torbert is not a warrior. He is good with a sword and he wishes he were a warrior but he understands he is not. He is a statesman. Landor wanted the battle fought within view of the capital. He expected the nobles to be able to watch as if it were a tournament or a game. They would have all been killed. Pernice's work would have been done by the conspirators."

"I would have supported Pernice's stance," Leyota said simply. "In fact, I probably would have joined his rampage."

She shook her head.

"So Landor plans to replace his advisers?" she asked to change the subject.

"Not change them but ignore them unless their advice matches what others are telling him," Bralan replied. "The group who recommends the next set of nobles will consist of Eslada, Torbert, Lorida, Felip Broat from the Tribunal and a representative of common blood, right now it might be Rayna. This is how it was leaning earlier."

"She will be pleased by that," Leyota said. "It will give her a purpose until Denae returns."

"Well, she might not be pleased because her duty there will not end once the new nobility is selected," Bralan said. "That council will not be removed. They will be responsible for providing Landor with an accurate view of how any given situation affects the entirety of Emertland. It will not be a post with no work. They will meet during Court and they will be responsible for maintaining correspondence with the outer regions. I suspect that Jorgarn's father will replace Felip in a few months. I believe Landor wants Wenta to be a leading voice on the council and perhaps even reside at the castle. But he thinks he should discuss it with Jorgarn first."

Jorgarn shot a pointed glance toward Leyota, who was in the process of tapping Marnit on the back.

"Yes, well, perhaps more things should be discussed with Jorgarn beforehand," Leyota said. "But we should consider his response to things before we tell him. The more likely he is to balk incessantly before complying the later we should inform him."

"Agreed," Bralan said with a smile before Jorgarn could speak. "Then there is my group of advisers. They will hold an equal rank to Landor's from the outset. Their opinions will count just as highly as his will, simply because they will bring a different perspective. That is why Rayna or someone else will join the Advisory Council. So we can ensure that the common citizen will not be adversely affected by things. For too long that has been of no consideration. That must change. They must have a voice in the capital. Landor is considering allowing there to be a vote but I don't see how that would work. There are too many provinces and too little time. Few will know anything of who they might vote for and there is no way to inform them."

Jorgarn snickered.

"Few have the time or inclination to worry about it," he said. "Pernice's father works from sunup to sundown each day on his boat. When the sun is in the sky, he is on the boat and out to sea. When he is in port, he is working on the boat to make sure it can last another trip. He cares little or nothing about the politics of the capital so long as his taxes remain reasonable and his ale remains fresh. Those in the Emertland Guard were the same. Their parents have no time to offer for something that does not concern them."

"It does concern them!" Bralan said. "This is a chance for their concerns to be heard."

"One vote of 15?" Jorgarn asked. "That is no voice at all. Rayna or whoever else lands on the panel will be ignored simply because no one else – not Torbert, not Eslada and certainly not my father or King Landor's advisers – have any real sense of what it is to be a commoner."

"I do," Leyota said.

"To a certain degree," Jorgarn said, "but not really. You knew all you had to do was show up at Council chambers and there would be food on the table. You did not have to hunt it or catch it or trap it or grow it lest you face the prospect of going hungry. You also knew you were safe because of your position and your friends. You knew no roving Lord was going to take liberties with you and then discard you. You knew that any affront to you would be handled as equals. That is not the way here; it never was. The Tribunal and the Magistrates invariably side with the nobility. Ask Rayna if you do not believe me. Ask Pernice or Belad. Blazes, ask Fieth or your brother. They will tell you. The reason people left for Freeland – the primary reason it was named Freeland – is because every person was equal to the next. The fact that Leyota hails from a noble family and Ronac does not is of no importance. Leyota's words held no more meaning than his. Until that changes, giving the commoner a single vote out of 15 is simply placating them. It holds no real meaning."

Bralan seemed crestfallen and Jorgarn saw it immediately.

"It is a start, though," he amended. "And it is more than they had before. A single vote is one more than they had last week or today."

"It will be one vote out of 20, not 15," Bralan said sadly. "You are going to be expected to name people to be your advisers, too. They will have a say on things as they pertain to our safety and maintain ties with the Empire, Tark and Velotta."

Jorgarn looked skeptical.

"And how do you propose I do that?" he asked. "Am I to travel across the lands? Do you not think that in the years it would take me to get from Tark to Velotta to Swar and back that much would change?"

"We are going to appoint emissaries to each country," Bralan said. "We are going to offer to house an emissary from each land here. They will be your source of information. I personally believe it will work well. Your group will still advise on domestic matters too. So, Torbert, you, the King and I will each have a group that concerns itself with matters of importance to the country, not to our individual portions of it."

"Which for many of us will be no portion at all," Leyota said with a smile. "That part makes sense. The King's group will all be landholders as will the majority of yours. Torbert's group will have at least three landholders to start but will increase to four. Jorgarn's group is unlikely to have any landholders at all. Outside of Pernice, it might be packed with commoners just to spite Landor."

She laughed.

"And Pernice and Jorgarn each think more like a common man than anyone else I know," she said. "So there, Jorgarn. It could be as many as six votes out of 20."

"Most likely eight," Bralan corrected. "Although I will not make them my lead adviser, I plan to find two commoners to join my group. I think Denae had the right idea about that even if she went about it badly."

Jorgarn looked slightly uncomfortable for a moment.

"Well, uh," he said. "I doubt there will be many commoners on my staff. If I were forced to name a group, it would consist of Stenweed, Pernice, Elobert, Chicote and probably Lippit. I am not sure who will remain behind."

"Stenweed is not returning," Leyota said. "He is happy in Freeland. He made that plain to me. He holds no affection for Emertland after how he was treated not only in his own village but at the castle."

"Cläda," Jorgarn muttered. "That means I couldn't name four others if I tried. Do Elobert and Chicote plan to remain behind?"

Leyota nodded.

"What about Lippit and Belad?" he asked.

She shook her head.

"Well, I can't very well go down to the tavern and pick up just anyone and expect him or her to know what is happening in other lands," he remarked. "In fact, Rayna would be better suited to my council than the other."

"So name her," Bralan said with a shrug. "Unlike you, Torbert can pretty well select anyone and get a viable candidate. The prospective landholder will have to interview before the council and answer questions. Anyone with an opinion would suffice."

Jorgarn help up his hands.

"May I assume this will wait until after we fend off those who march to the capital?" he asked.

Bralan laughed but nodded.

"Then let us wait until then to decide," Jorgarn said. "I believe the more likely I am to be forced to deal with politics before the battle the more likely I am to simply let the rebels walk though."

At least Leyota put Marnit in her crib before slapping Jorgarn on the arm.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 47


Marnit was much happier on solid ground and had slept a good portion of the day. Leyota said that boded badly for the trio as far as her sleeping at night. But Jorgarn didn't mind. He was used to going on only a few hours of sleep and it gave him precious time with the baby.

She awoke the trio in the middle of the night with her cries but she refused to eat. So Jorgarn collected the small bundle and the pair walked the castle until Marnit drifted off again. He found himself outside of his old chambers a floor above Bralan's suite of rooms. Rayna had taken her former room down the hall and Leyod slept in a small bed in her chamber.

Memories flooded his mind as he stood and rocked Marnit while looking at the door to the sitting room he used to share with Denae. For a brief moment, he felt a twinge of regret. He could have stayed and maintained his status as her Knight. He didn't need to flee to Freeland.

Then he realized how happy he was that had. He would not be carrying this child – a child he shared with a woman he had always loved and one who loved him completely – if he had stayed. Denae would never have permitted him to marry someone he cared about. Perhaps she would never have permitted him to marry at all. The side of her that had appeared prior to their engagement had galled him. The fact that she had returned to her earlier practices the moment he was away from the castle told him that she was only pretending to care for him.

Perhaps Leyota was correct and the woman had grown. He certainly hoped so because Emertland could never truly be safe so long as Denae believed herself aggrieved.

Leyota had never pretended and he cursed himself for doubting her love for him. She had set out to do what she thought was best for everyone and she had succeeded.

His thoughts drifted from Leyota to Bralan. He still wasn't sure they could make things work for the three of them but she and Leyota seemed convinced they could. Bralan had been excited about the prospect of a plural marriage and she vowed to see what precedents needed to be in place before it was possible.

Marnit was sleeping soundly when he returned them to their chambers. Leyota and Bralan, who had started out on either side of him, had shifted to the middle of the bed and lay entwined in the other's arms. He didn't have the heart to awaken them, so he sat on a chair and let Marnit sleep on his shoulder for a while longer. He worried that he might doze and drop her, so he moved to the full settee along the opposite wall to the bed. He put Marnit's tiny head on his shoulder closest to the back of the settee and they both slept.

It was how Leyota found them in the morning when she awoke: the two people she loved most under Creation sleeping soundly. Jorgarn had his arms wrapped around the girl and he had used his cloak as a coverlet to keep her warm. The baby slept on his shoulder as if it were the nicest place she could find. Leyota had slept on that very shoulder several times, and she agreed that Marnit might be right.

Bralan awoke and together with Leyota, she stood and admired the scene before her. She had seen Jorgarn in battle. He still carried scars on his face and arm from them. She knew him to be a deadly enemy and a ruthless warrior. But at that moment she saw his face set in such tranquility it was hard to guess he had ever seen a moment's strife in his life.

Marnit awakened first and shifted slightly. Neither Leyota nor Bralan was surprised at how quickly Jorgarn recognized the movement and sprang awake himself. He wrapped his arms gently around the baby and looked around for a source of danger. He saw Bralan and Leyota gazing at him and looked at them sheepishly.

"You were already asleep when we returned from our walk," he said, "so we decided this was a better option than waking either of you up. I am afraid Marnit will need a few years' sword training before we will risk that."

Leyota was shocked that Marnit did not cry as she usually did when she awoke. Her eyes opened and she seemed a bit disturbed by the rough beard that was on top of her head. She was warm and comfortable so she let it go.

"I need to feed her," Leyota said softly. "And you need to prepare for Tribunal. I brought your best tunic with me. I will prepare it for you once I have fed Marnit. Bralan, do you require assistance with your gown?"

"I have it all prepared," she stated, "although I might require your aid with my hair. I should have set it last night but I forgot."

"It looks wonderful," Jorgarn offered.

"Such a sweet boy," Bralan said with a smile. "I believe we should keep him. He is ever so good with the children."

"I trained him well," Leyota said as she picked up Marnit and kissed Jorgarn warmly on the lips. "It took me many years but I finally succeeded. Now we just need him to stay in bed during the night. I will leave that training to you."

The meeting of Tribunal was only a formality. The six members – because the spot previously occupied by Denae was vacant – voted unanimously to install Bralan as Landor's successor. They took only a few minutes to review the evidence before voting to strip several landholders of their titles. Those outside of Landor, Torbert, Jorgarn and Bralan seemed surprised that the King did not have new names for them to consider. He told them instead they would remain Crown lands until the uprising was put down.

-------

The day brought two more ships to port, one carrying 20 members of the Tark Archers and one carrying 25 members of the newly named Emertland Raiders, formerly the Dometian Cavalry. As soon as their horses were unloaded and settled, the Raiders set off in six groups of three and one group of seven, with the smaller, nimble members of the freshly coined Emertland Rangers, formerly the scouts and trackers sent by Jorgarn's father, riding behind them on their steeds. Their mission was twofold: pinpoint the exact location of the enemy and gauge its speed; and warn the population along the path to be prepared to evacuate.

Jorgarn and Torbert sat with Pernice and Belad to discuss their options. A joint venture to the site Jorgarn proposed was warranted but Jorgarn knew that everyone would wish to accompany their leaders.

"Let's just go and set up camp," Pernice declared. "It is everything Jorgarn said it is. One side of the road is forested and the other side is a sheer drop to the bay. There will be no escape for them in that spot, nowhere they might flee."

"Still, if the enemy is weeks away, we don't want them restless," Jorgarn replied.

"Said the man earning a ton of Konecs each night at the tavern," Pernice rejoined with a laugh. Jorgarn had filled the men in on what he had learned of his financial status and earned a laugh from everyone.

"He says they are eating for free," Torbert joked. "But I'm sure he is charging double for the wenches to make up for it. I have heard him say numerous times there is nothing free under Creation."

Jorgarn rolled his eyes and tried to move the men back to the discussion at hand. He was only partially successful.

"Why don't you buy the tavern near Pernice's home, too," Ronac offered with a sly grin. "That way you won't lose money if we depart. But don't tell Vellendira. She won't let me go if she knows I have access to tavern wenches."

Jorgarn lifted his eyes and Belad blushed.

"We married just before we came here," he said. "She didn't think a wedding trip to a war was a bad plan. I wanted her to stay at home but she insisted upon accompanying us. We have almost two dozen married couples in our ranks now."

Jorgarn congratulated the man warmly but he was saddened to learn that there was no way Belad would remain behind in Emertland now. He had a wife and a future family to consider now.

"Now we just have to find someone for Fieth, Renoit, Lippit and Wort," Ronac joked. "But I saw Pernice with a couple tasty things yesterday."

Torbert cleared his throat.

"One of those 'tasty things' was my youngest daughter," he pointed out with mock severity.

"Astid?" Ronac said. "I'm sorry. I still remember her as a little girl. I would never have made that comment if I had known who she was."

"At least not in front of you, Torbert," Jorgarn laughed, happy to needle his friend for once instead of the other way around. "Incidentally, the other was Fieth's sister. So you might want to watch your comments about how 'tasty' she appears, too."

Duly chastened, Belad moved his focus to the map.

"If we tire of giving Jorgarn our coin, we can always move out and look for other places to fight," he said.

Pernice shook his head.

"I believe Jorgarn selected the perfect spot," he told them. "I have long noticed the strategic importance of the spot. The road narrows so they cannot come more than three abreast – two if they wish to be able to swing a weapon. They cannot turn south without falling off the cliff, nor can they turn back the way they came easily if they bring wagons or anything else with them. That leaves the forest to hide in and I believe our archers will be able to keep them at bay there. I saw Lady Darnot this morning. She is at the capital. I made her aware of the situation. She said we could burn the forest if it was necessary to keep the invaders away from the capital. I hope that does not become necessary."

"It shouldn't," Torbert said as he reviewed the scenario again. "It will be dark. If we can keep relatively silent, the lead group should blunder into us without warning. The Cavalry will set upon the group from the rear, bunching them together in the bottleneck. Then we have our archers thin them out before we attack from three sides. They will have the choice of surrender or diving to their deaths. We should know more in a few days. The horses, even riding double, can cover in four days what it takes a man 10 days to traverse. The routes we sent everyone has them converging at several points. The Rangers plan to harass the rebels every time they wish to sleep and then slip away."

"Vellendira says the Rangers are known as the Silent Killers," Belad stated. "The cavalry is the Mounted Death."

"Such pithy titles from a group who strikes from behind and murders women," Pernice spat. "I find it sad that they spent more time thinking up clever nicknames than learning honor."

"Honor is a foreign concept to the Umbrians," Belad told them. "They are trained from an early age that only the strongest survive and that winning means everything. Vellendira was treated most harshly for being captured and released instead of killed."

"I'm sorry, Ronac," Jorgarn said.

Belad waved his hand.

"How could you have known?" he asked. "We had no one return from capture but we would have welcomed them. At least those of us here at the table would have. I have told Vellendira that events that occurred have no bearing on the love I have for her. Those who abused her will feel my wrath but she is not to blame for the actions of others."

The three other men nodded sadly. For Pernice and Torbert, it brought up images of what the women they held dear must have faced. For Jorgarn, it reminded him of the heinous injuries he had seen on Rayna's body. But those wounds were not caused by Umbrians. They were the handiwork of men from Emertland. It sickened him.

"There are those among us who would behave the same if we permitted it," Jorgarn said sadly. "There are men who do not understand consequence, who feel they are above reprimand. These are the men we deal with soon. The risk of being struck from behind comes not only from the foreign soldiers hired to fight but from the men who hired them as well. Dishonor is the one thing all the conspirators have in common. Do not let your guard down simply because you face a group comprised of Emertis. They are just as capable of atrocities as the Umbrians."

The men's eyes turned to Jorgarn as he spoke. They knew he must have a reason for his warning but none could figure what it was. Only Torbert knew of Jorgarn pulling Rayna aside the day before and he didn't know the reason for it.

"He speaks truly," Pernice said. "And, surprisingly, wisely."

He cast a sideways smile at his friend.

"Let us agree to dispatch our opponents accordingly regardless of the nationality we face," Belad agreed. "I believe we have almost 400 under our various commands. Torbert, who do you plan to lead the Tarks?"

Torbert glanced only a moment at Jorgarn before replying.

"Pernice," he said. He expected a heated discussion with Jorgarn about this but instead his fellow Knight simply nodded.

"Then here is what I propose," Belad stated, his eyes fixed on the men in front of him. "Pernice and the archers in the woods with the Rangers; Jorgarn and the Guard at the rear with the Cavalry. I will command the Freeland militia from the front."

"What of the Freelanders unattached to the militia?" Pernice asked.

"We will ask where they wish to serve and send them there if the commanders are agreed," Belad said. "Does this seem reasonable to all? The Guard will have the advantage of the horsemen but will still see a large portion of the action. They also are likely to capture the leaders of this group, who undoubtedly will choose to lead from the rear. It is the way with most cowards, I find."

He looked sympathetically at Pernice and Jorgarn for a moment.

"I apologize for suggesting on numerous occasions that you should stay behind," he said. "Now that I command a sizable group, I find it an unpalatable thought. You were right when you told me I would one day understand your need to be with your men. I'm sorry I doubted that statement."

Jorgarn and Pernice waved off his apologies but Torbert looked thoughtful.

"I wish I could be there," Torbert said.

"So be there," Belad stated. "I am certain Jorgarn would cede field command of the Emertland troops to you. You will need to be nearby anyway. I would wager you will be the only man who will have sense enough to stop us once we start killing these cowards."

"It is also you who should accept their surrender," Jorgarn pointed out. "As Captain of the Guard and Knight of the Realm, invaders should submit to you before being taken to the King. Gorin can handle watching the King. I can ask for volunteers from the Guard to stay or even ask Fieth and Renoit. They might agree since their sisters are remaining in the castle."

Torbert seemed to ponder the possibility.

"If a suitable contingent agrees to stay to protect the castle, I will accompany the troops," he decided. "I will remain the overall commander and delegate the field commands to you three – assuming you will agree to that, Ronac."

"Of course I will, Sir Torbert," Belad stated. "It was never a question that my troops would be yours to command."

Torbert smiled and nudged Jorgarn.

"Should I tell him Landor's original plan?" he whispered.

"Later," Jorgarn replied with a sigh. "After all, it is not too late for him to take his troops back to Freeland."

-------

Jorgarn left his meeting and took a stroll in the village. It was something he had done infrequently during his first stay in Emertland's capital. Denae did not like the village and Jorgarn did not believe it would be a good idea to lift a pint with the men under his command in full view of the public they protected.

So unless he had a specific errand to run – and he could not locate Merg, Drosset, Leyota or Stenweed to run it for him – Jorgarn had stayed away from the village. But he was interested in learning about all of his various business ventures. He wandered past the smithy but didn't stop. It appeared to be doing brisk business and he wasn't surprised given that war was on the horizon. Jorgarn had mentioned to Leyota that she should take some of his coin and ask the smith to produce more armor for those in need of it.

Of course, Leyota had already considered that – as had Eslada, who had started the smith working on it as soon as she arrived. Lady Fieth had decided to spend the coin her father had promised the uprising on the King's men instead.

Jorgarn knew the tavern made money even in the leanest of times. Leyota had told him the manager knew to take barter if coin was unavailable and that it wasn't necessary to double his cost on every item. Thus there were many customers who ate and drank there regularly. Leyota had explained this was good. The food produced a slim profit but the drink they consumed netted almost 200 percent on each barrel. The rooms for let were 100 percent profit because they had already been paid for numerous times over. None of the rooms would be confused with a stay at the castle, but they were nice enough for what they cost, Leyota had assured him.

She also informed Jorgarn that the prostitutes that frequented every inn and alehouse in the Emertland capitol worked for him, which he found slightly appalling until she explained the alternative to him. Jorgarn, it seemed, paid each woman a set wage to work as a hostess and waitress. If she chose to accept other work, she was paid 60 percent of whatever she made, less the cost of the room. Leyota pointed out that many other women worked for considerably less than that. Many received nothing for their efforts, except a cruel beating if it wasn't enough for whoever controlled their purses.

Jorgarn was ruminating on how he became a whoremonger when a series of yells and the loud sound of a horse in distress brought him out of his thoughts. He saw a commotion by the Eastern Gate to the capital and hurried that way. There was a portly man screaming at the Guardsmen who blocked access to the gate and a horse dying in the dirt a few feet away.

"What is going on here?" Jorgarn roared as he came forward.

The portly man turned to speak but Jorgarn ignored him and walked past him.

"Sir," the first guard said in acknowledgement, "this gentleman refused to pay heed to the warnings we gave him. We informed him that no one was permitted to leave the capital. He got angry, cursed at us and then tried to get his horse to run us over."

Jorgarn glanced at the second guard who was wiping the horse's blood from this sword. A glance at the horse's wound showed Jorgarn it was on his hind legs when stabbed. It seemed to him that the Guardsmen were telling him the truth.

"There is no exit from the capital," he said as he turned the man behind him, whose face had reddened even further when Jorgarn had taken no notice of him.

"Do you know who I am?" the man thundered.

"You are one of the King's advisers," Jorgarn said with a shrug. "You all look the same to me, quite frankly. As such, you should know these orders were issued under the King's Mandate and his Mandate includes 'every person residing in or visiting' the capital."

"I insist I be allowed to leave!" the man said hotly, seemingly unaware of what Jorgarn had just told him.

"No," Jorgarn replied casually.

The man's eyes goggled. It appeared he had never heard the word before.

"No?" he asked.

"No," Jorgarn repeated. "If you would like, I will escort you to see King Landor. If he gives you a writ allowing your exit, then I will personally accompany you to the gate and see you off. However, I do not believe it likely you will receive his permission."

"I will not go begging to leave here," the man said imperiously.

"Then you will not leave," was Jorgarn's answer. "You will, however, need to pay someone to remove this dead animal. Additionally, you may need to answer Tribunal for your actions toward the King's guards. You are fortunate I wasn't on guard or you would be just as dead as your horse."

"That was next, Sir Jorgarn," the second guard stated. Jorgarn replied with a nod.

"So, see there, your vaunted position saved your life today," Jorgarn said as he took the man's elbow in a firm grip and turned him around. "Now, do you wish to join me on a walk back to the palace? You can stop a couple of men along the way and hire them to butcher your horse."

The man's face went from red to purple when Jorgarn took his elbow.

"Or you can try to charge through three armed men for your freedom," Jorgarn offered. "No, I doubted you would enjoy that idea. Come, Lord Who-ever-you-are. Let us see the King."

Torbert, Pernice and Belad saw Jorgarn escorting a mottle-faced man on the road to the palace and immediately hastened to join him. Torbert recognized Lord Esselrig but the others, like Jorgarn, knew him only an adviser to King Landor.

"Torbert!" the man said when he saw him approach. "Please instruct your flunky to unhand me."

Jorgarn saw a trace of a cruel smile cross Torbert's face.

"Flunky?" he asked. "I believe I see now at least one reason why Jorgarn has hold of you. We wouldn't want you to make the mistake of trying to harm him. Now, Sir Jorgarn, what holds?"

"This 'gentleman' insisted because of his role that he was permitted to leave the capital," Jorgarn said. The derision in his voice was unmistakable and Pernice hid his face so his smile was unseen. "When the Guards did their duty and refused, he attacked them with his horse."

"And he still lives?" Torbert asked. "That is a pity. I assume the helpless animal was killed in his stead."

"I insist as a Lord that I be allowed to leave," the man said. "I will have this man before a Magistrate for daring to lay hands on a noble. He is no longer Lord Tremaine. That was taken from him."

"That will be given back," Torbert pointed out. "And he is still the heir to the Elmwood manor so I do not think a trip to the Magistrate will do you much good. However, I foresee a trip before Tribunal in your future. I will make certain you are punished for refusing the lawful order of a Guardsman. The last who did that received five stripes. Since you attacked them, I am certain I can convince the Tribunal to give you 10."

The man tried to jerk his arm away but Jorgarn tightened his grip, causing the man to wince in pain.

"I've seen him break a man's arm that way," Belad said. "You might just think twice about trying that again."

"You will address me as Lord Esselrig!" the man declared.

"I will address you as Pompous Shit Rag, if I choose," Belad said stepping forward. "I am not one of your vassals nor do I live in this forsaken land. With men like you in charge, I am happier of that fact than ever. If you insist upon titles, you may address me as Citizen Belad, Commander of the Freeland Militia and High Leader of the Military Council."

Pernice could no longer contain his laughter and it spilled forth loudly. Through his gales he kept muttering "Pompous Shit Rag; that is an apt title."

Torbert shook his head but he, too, could not contain the smile on his face.

"Well, we certainly see how the military elements view your contributions, Mornac," he said. "Now, Jorgarn, where are you bound?"

"I told him if His Majesty, King Landor gave him a writ, I would escort him to the gate and see him safely on his way," Jorgarn said.

"A reasonable compromise, I believe," Torbert said. "Citizen Belad, would you and Baron Wort care to accompany us?"

"Oh, most certainly, Sir Lord Torbert," Belad said in a sincere voice and with a bow. "It would be my honor to accompany such a fine man as you wherever you would go."

Pernice managed to wipe the smile from his face long enough to agree as well.

King Landor was perplexed to see Mornac Esselrig being rudely guided into his chamber. He had noted Esselrig's absence during the morning briefing but had thought little of it. The man had been less helpful than usual in the preceding weeks.

"Your Majesty," Torbert said as he entered, "Lord Esselrig has attempted to leave the capital and he attacked two Guardsmen when they refused to allow him past."

Anger entered Landor's eyes when he turned to Esselrig.

"You are well aware that the capital is sealed," he said. "And you are well aware of the reason why. Why do you need to leave so urgently? I received no notice of your departure."

"I must attend to my estate, Landor," he said. Jorgarn felt the man's pulse quicken beneath his fingertips. He knew the lord was lying.

"Your estate lies to the north, does it not?" Jorgarn asked.

"It does, Sir Jorgarn," Landor supplied when it became evident that Esselrig didn't plan to reply.

"He attempted to exit through the Eastern Gate, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said, his head cocked to the side and his eyes narrowed.

Landor looked up in surprise.

"Why, that would have added a good quarter day to your trip," he said. "Why would you attempt to leave by the Eastern Gate? Well, no matter. You are barred from leaving the capital at any rate. Torbert, could you and Sir Jorgarn escort Lord Esselrig to the cells? He can wait there while I investigate. He is at least guilty of creating a disturbance. Tribunal will not meet for another month. Oh well, nothing for it. He'll just have to stay locked up until they meet. Pernice, would you and Ronac search Esselrig's suite for me? I want all his papers and his staff brought for my inspection."

Esselrig's pulse quickened even faster. Jorgarn wondered if the man would expire before they got him to the lower level.

"You will send these barbarians to search my belongings?" he said, finding his voice. "That is unconscionable. I will not permit it! I demand to be released and allowed to leave the castle."

"Jorgarn, if he speaks again, silence him for me," Landor said amiably. "You are accused of attacking two members of the Emertland Guard. Depending upon what I find in your chambers that may be all you are charged with. However..."

Landor's voice trailed off. It held menace when he spoke again.

"We all know there is a spy in the castle. The only reason you would exit from a gate so far from your stated destination is so you can be closer to the group that rides this way along the coastal road. Oh yes, we know their route and their time schedule. I am certain you are most anxious to inform them that Freeland has sent aid."

He waved his hand dismissively.

"Please, Torbert, take him from my sight," he said. "It is all I can do to keep him alive right now. I fear if I must suffer his presence for longer, it will be too much."

After a nod from Torbert, Jorgarn's grip tightened again on Esselrig's arm as he led him out of the chamber and down to the lower level.

Jorgarn was surprised to see Landor waiting at the top when he came back.

"I would like to speak to the Guardsmen who stopped Esselrig," he said. "Are they still on duty?"

"Yes, Sire," Jorgarn said. "They are still at the Eastern Gate. Do you wish me to find Sir Torbert to accompany you?"

"No, I would prefer that you go with me," he said. "Do you mind another walk?"

The King waited until they left the castle ground before speaking.

"Esselrig," he said sadly with a shake of his head. "I have known him since I was five years old. Did you see what Pernice and Ronac recovered from his chambers?"

Jorgarn shook his head and Landor produced a piece of parchment and handed it to him.

"Torbert believes it is our troop strength," he said. "A rough estimation, yes, but it would still allow the rebels to retreat and hide."

Jorgarn considered the paper for a moment before speaking.

"Do you think it might be best to allow this to be sent?" he wondered.

"I wish it would be that simple," the King answered. "I have nothing but innuendo and rumor to take to the Tribunal. You agreed to the stipulation that the lands will be returned if they are found to be innocent. No, sadly, I believe we must go forward as we've planned and to catch them unaware before they understand how many soldiers are here. If they retreat now they will return in a year or two years or 10 years with enough men to give us a firm battle."

"Just because you cannot take them before Tribunal doesn't mean you lack options," Jorgarn pointed out. "I am convinced of the guilt of most of the people named. Pernice and I could take a group of Rangers and those involved in the plot could have an unfortunate series of accidents."

"I considered that," Landor replied. "I strongly considered asking for that solution. But it won't work for many reasons. First, I prefer the rule of law to the rule of might. I tried the rule of might once it cost me everyone I hold dear. More pragmatically, those lands would revert to children or relatives of the accused. Those actions would gain us no allies. More importantly, I believe we need to root out all of the conspirators. If we leave even one or two behind, it sows the seeds for another attempt. There are several I suspect but I am not convinced of and several, such as my dear friend Lord Esselrig, whom I have never considered. I do not believe I could live with myself if I ordered the death of someone who later was proven innocent or if I allowed something to happen to Bralan because I did not take decisive action now. I hope you understand my reasoning."

Jorgarn nodded his agreement.

The two guards on duty at the East Gate saw the King, wearing a grim expression, accompanying their commander to their post and feared the worst. Neither was of noble blood and they knew the word of a Lord, especially the word of an adviser to the Crown, was tantamount to a declaration from Creation. Both dropped to their knee in supplication.

"Your Majesty, King Landor, please allow me to present to you Masters Nemar and Amisser," Jorgarn said. "They are fine members of your Guard staff."

"Arise, gentlemen, arise," Landor said heartily. "I wanted to personally meet the young men who single-handedly might have won this war for us."

The two Guards were unsure if King Landor was genuine or speaking facetiously. They remained silent.

"The man you stopped," Landor said as he put his hand on Nemar's shoulder, "was attempting to alert the rebellion that the Freeland militia has arrived. If you had allowed him to pass, this war could have lasted for another decade. I want to offer my sincere thank you for your fine work and your dedication to your duty."

Amisser gulped before speaking.

"It was our honor, Your Majesty," he sputtered. "It is an honor to serve in your Guard."

"Well, gentlemen, it is my privilege to meet you," King Landor said as he shook hands with each of the stunned men. "And it is my honor to know that fine men such as yourselves are watching over the castle and the capital. Well done."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 48


Bralan and Leyota once again joined Jorgarn in bed that night. Marnit had fallen asleep while nursing and barely stirred when Leyota had placed her in the crib.

Jorgarn had stripped to his lower clothes, as he had done the night before. But Leyota got completely undressed before she came to bed. Jorgarn noticed faint marks across her abdomen in the dim light where the skin had not yet gone back to its previous tightness. But her bosom, already impressive before the pregnancy, was even larger. She still looked lovely and she saw that on his face when her chemise was over her head. She felt gratified that he still desired her.

Bralan watched with rapt attention as well. Leyota was very enticing, even though it had been only a few weeks since giving birth to a child.

Bralan joined Leyota in kissing with Jorgarn, then followed her lead in descending down his body.

"The only working receptacle is my mouth," Leyota said. "I trust that will suffice."

"You need not," Jorgarn said.

"Oh, this is purely a 'want' circumstance," Leyota rejoined.

"She wants to take you in her mouth and I want to learn how to do it," Bralan added with a smile. "This is a perfectly acceptable form of recreation for people who care about the other."

The next hour was sweet torture for Jorgarn. Leyota was talented and enthusiastic but she would often stop to explain a finer point of oral pleasure to Bralan.

Bralan, for her part, would reach out and stroke Leyota's cheek occasionally and her hand would join Leyota's in running up and down Jorgarn's erection. But she didn't take it into her mouth.

She had kept her night clothing on, too.

Still, Jorgarn knew he had little to complain about.

-------

It was a three-day march to The Cliffs, as the men had started to calling the spot where the battle would commence. Those who had horses could make it in a day but there were only a few dozen or so horses available.

The Freeland militia would march, with Belad on horse at the lead. The Emertland Guard elected to do the same, with the men who owned horses offering their mounts to the Cavalry in case one of theirs tired or was killed.

The Tark Archers were used to walking. It was the preferred mode of transportation in a land where horses were used more for food than for convenience.

King Landor, with Bralan at his side, met the soldiers before they began their trek. He looked gravely over the troops for a moment before holding a piece of parchment aloft and speaking.

"In my hand I hold a list with 179 names on it," he said. "One-hundred-seventy-nine men and women from Emertland, from Tark, from the lands formerly called Longview and Domita and from lands too far away for us to even know their names, who died for this country and this King."

He paused for a moment and Jorgarn thought Landor wiped a tear from his eye. It was confirmed when Landor spoke again, his voice quavering with emotion.

"It shames me, good men and women," he continued. "It shames me to tell you that for more than a year this list sat ignored and disregarded in a drawer in my desk. There were only a few names on it I recognized and fewer still that I could put a face to. So I chose to forget it. It was only in the past weeks that I took this from that drawer. It was only in the past weeks that I reflected on what these names meant, not just to me or to Emertland, but to the families, friends and colleagues they left behind.

"So as you go forth in defense of this land once again – as so many of you went before – I ask you, I pray to you, please do not make me add more names to my List of Regret. I beg of each and every one of you – regardless of from whence you hail or to where you next are bound – please listen to your commanders and follow their orders. I know their goal is to see Emertland safe. That is the goal of every man and woman in front of me. But my goal is to see each of you return through those gates, hail, hearty and whole when this business is concluded.

"My words mean little. I know that. So do not do it for me or for Emertland. I want you to return for your families who love you and for the friends who will miss you and for the men and women who stand beside you and who would mourn your loss for the rest of their days. Go forth! Go forth, do your duty and then return to this ground safely."

Jorgarn saw Bralan wiping her eyes. She had planned to say a few words but wisely changed her mind after Landor's impassioned pleas. Instead, she simply kissed her fingertips and spread her hands to the crowd to show that her love went with them. It was a touching gesture and the men and women responded with a cheer for the Monarch and his Heir. They beat their swords upon their shields and raised their arms into their air in salute before they heeded the commands of their officers and marched smartly from the Eastern gate, down the coastal road to The Cliffs, Torbert at the head of an army that held 413 men and women.

-------

The soldiers of the Combined Forces, as Torbert had anointed the group, arrived at The Cliffs several days in advance of the rebels. The Rangers were doing a strong job of keeping the insurgents off guard. Several nights in a row, sentries would go to their post to find their predecessor slain or bound. The Rangers bombarded the marchers with arrows when they travelled at daybreak and nightfall then disappeared into whatever thicket was available. Then they would pull back for a few days; letting the rebels return to complacency before striking again.

The Rangers who returned to the main force reported several heated conversations between those leading the small army and those who obviously were in control. The words "Silent Death" had been heard more than once, along with "Freeland" and "Jorgarn and Pernice."

The conspirators stopped the army for several days a few miles outside of Darnot region, while still in the safety of Peth. It was three nights before Jorgarn's rider appeared to tell them the rebels were on the move again, this time under the cover of darkness. They had sent a scout ahead to find a suitable spot for them to camp at daybreak, but the scout would not be returning. The Rangers had killed the man and left him staked to a tree a half night's march from The Cliffs. It was meant to ensure the battle would take place under the cover of darkness the following night.

What it ensured was that the rebel army would refuse – even under threat of death – to march again during the night. A Ranger arrived at the Combined site a few hours after dark to report there was no movement from the rebels, but he had seen much arguing and shouting during the day.

It was only a few hours after daybreak when the first column of the rebel army came into view. Jorgarn hid in the dense forest with the rest of the Emertland Guard. His horsemen had ridden several miles behind the enemy and were tracking them from a distance. The enemy front guard was almost through the narrow passage when Ronac Belad and his soldiers stepped from the forest in their path.

The front of the rebel army came to an abrupt stop and the rows behind them marched into the backs of the men in front of them. The confusion worsened when the Cavalry arrived and joined with Jorgarn's forces to push the back edge of the force forward. There was some fighting at the rear of the column – because Belad was correct, the Lords in charge had kept their best fighters nearest to them for protection. But the Emertland Guard had them outnumbered almost 3 to 1.

The Cavalry commander spotted six men on horseback edging away and raced toward them with his second in command. They spread a rope between them and three of the six men tumbled unceremoniously from their mounts onto the ground. Jorgarn, Fieth and Lippit spurred their horses into the fray to combat the three remaining horsemen just as the Archers let loose a torrent of arrows at the mass of men stranded on the tight road that bordered a harrowing cliff.

An entire column of men fell to their deaths when they were forced backward by those in front of them searching for a place to hide. It was then that Belad and the Emertland Guard charged into the startled mass and began to slay indiscriminately anyone still holding a weapon.

The three men facing Lippit, Fieth and Jorgarn were obviously experienced fighters but it was evident they were not used to fighting from horseback. Fieth suffered a small wound to his arm before dispatching his foe but Jorgarn and Lippit knocked their opponents to the ground easily and slew them before they could arise.

A loud horn emanated from the forest and the combined forces pulled back and left the main body of the rebel army alone. The few who remained alive seemed unwilling to try to retrieve a weapon. Most simply held their arms above their heads.

"Form a single line and move backward toward the clearing," Belad bellowed in Umbrian. Sixteen of the men started to move and Jorgarn and Pernice met them at the edge of the clearing with drawn swords.

"Umbrian?" Pernice asked.

When the men nodded, he and Jorgarn cut them down where they stood. Immediately men from the Emertland Guard raced forward, picked up the bodies and hurled them from the cliffs over to the sea below.

"As you see, you men have already been convicted and likely will die today," Jorgarn said in Emerti. "The few of you who remain have a chance to save your families, however. If you accept your fate with grace and dignity, Sir Torbert has offered to forgive your wife, children and parents. Those of you that die without honor should know your families will follow soon after. I will personally hunt down your wives and your parents and kill them. If your children are older than six, I will kill them, too. If they are younger than six, they will be sent to an orphanage in Swar where the girls will be raised to be whores and the boys raised to be slaves for men who enjoy other men. If that is the fate you want for your families, pick up a sword and come at me. If you wish for them to live in forgiveness, form a single line and walk to me slowly. You will be bound and brought before Sir Lord Torbert, Knight Protector of the Realm, to face your punishment. Make your decision or I will make it for you."

There was no hesitation from the remaining rebel force. They formed a line and came forward, slowly stepping over bodies. They reached Jorgarn with their hands out to receive their shackles. Sir Torbert rode up to the group in the clearing moments later.

"How many of you come from noble blood?" he asked. Five of the 17 remaining men stepped forward.

With a nod of Torbert's head, the men were ushered forward.

"Bow before him," Jorgarn hissed. The men had little choice but to comply.

Starting from the end, Torbert walked in front of each man. Two he recognized – as did Jorgarn – as men who had left the Guard in disgrace. The rest he asked their names and their family names.

When he finished, he turned to the one in the middle, the second son of Lady Brestid, with his sword drawn.

"You men lie!" he bellowed. "The Tribunal has removed all your family holdings. You are not nobility. You are craven cowards who form alliances with men who rape and steal from the innocent. Your family holdings were removed but by taking up arms against the King, you forfeit your life and the life of you parents. Your sentence is death!"

Torbert's sword fell with such speed it clave deep into Brestid's head, not stopping until it split his head cleanly to its chin. Seconds later, four more swords fell and the men toppled over. As before, men rushed forward, grabbed the bodies and hurled them into the sea.

"Now that we have established that lies will serve no purpose, let us deal with the rest of you," Torbert said. "Why have you taken up arms against your King?"

His question was directed toward no one in particular but a large, red-faced man stepped forward.

"They made us!" he screamed in terror. "They have our wives and daughters following behind us. If we don't do what they say, they do unspeakable things to them."

"Your wives and daughters were captured this morning," Torbert announced. "For those of you who speak truly, you will be reunited with them shortly. Are there any here who has not been compelled to fight? Is there any man who fought of his own free will? If so, step forward and receive your punishment. It will save your family's life and I will give you a decent burial instead of feeding you to the sea life."

No one moved and Torbert put his fingers to his lips and released a shrill whistle.

A moment later, a group of women and children were brought forward, lined by a ring of horsemen.

"I see we have 12 men standing here," Torbert said quietly to Jorgarn. "Which is good – if they are telling the truth. There are 12 women with children in that group. Sadly, two of the women say they were forced here by their husbands, not by the conspirators. Please go back and bring them forward one family at a time. Ask them to tell you their family name and then relay it to me. We will sort it out that way."

Jorgarn nodded and rode off to the women and children.

"If you wish to be reunited with your husband, you may step forward one at a time," Jorgarn said. "If you do not wish to be reunited, if you wish to return to your homes as widows, I will arrange that, as well. Simply stay to the back and do not step forward. It is entirely your choice and no one will cast aspersions on you regardless of how you choose."

A tall woman with blonde hair came forward quickly, with a young girl in tow. Jorgarn asked her name and she told him. He relayed the message to another on horse who rode the distance to where Torbert stood and whispered it to him. The groups were far enough away that neither could hear was said to the other.

Jorgarn watched as three men stepped forward, his frown deepening.

"Well, it appears you are married to many men," he said in a tired voice. "Is one of those your actual husband?"

The woman nodded.

"Well, pick him out and we'll kill the other two," Jorgarn said.

"Brothers," she said. "They are my brothers."

Jorgarn looked toward Torbert and could see the man's temper fraying.

"Go, but the girl stays behind," he said. "If I find you are lying, you have just sold her as a whore."

The woman cast a fearful glance at her daughter before running across the field to Torbert. Two guards intercepted her as Jorgarn leaned down to the girl, a smile on his face.

"So, what is your name, Little One?" he asked.

The girl simply looked at her bare feet.

"My daughter's name is Marnit," he continued in a light voice. "Are you sure you won't tell me yours?"

"Zynta," a small voice said.

"Zynta," Jorgarn repeated. "That is a very pretty name. Now, Zynta, the woman with you, is she your mother?"

The girl nodded.

"And is one of those men your father?" he asked, pointing to where the three men stood.

She nodded again.

"And are the others your uncles?" he tried.

She craned her neck around him to look again before nodding.

"Well, let's take you to them," he said. "Do you want to ride on the horse with me?"

Zynta smiled broadly and nodded her head.

"Well, up you go then," Jorgarn said. He hefted the small child under her arms and sat her across the horse. She giggled with delight. Jorgarn decided to simply lead the horse across rather than mount behind her. "I want you to hold on tight. Promise?"

Zynta nodded again and her teeth shined in the sunlight. Jorgarn held out his arms when they got to Sir Torbert and she slipped off the horse and onto the ground. But she didn't let go of Jorgarn. Instead, she tugged at his sleeve.

"One of the others out there was nice to me," she said softly. "He gave me part of his food when I was hungry and he carried me on his shoulders when my feet hurt."

Jorgarn looked out at the nine men still standing in a row.

"Well, let's see if his wife claims him," he said with a grin. "If she doesn't, remind me and I'll let you claim him. Does that sound good?"

Zynta hugged Jorgarn's arm for a moment before scampering off to meet her family.

"The woman tells the truth, Sir Torbert," Jorgarn said. "That is her husband and those are her brothers."

Torbert glanced at Jorgarn and the little girl and smiled.

"Well done, Sir Jorgarn," he said. Zynta stopped in her tracks and spun around.

"You're not a bad man!" she said loudly. Jorgarn saw the three captured leaders cringe. "They said you would hurt us if you caught us. They said you were a bad person who liked to hurt people."

"I am willing to hurt bad people, Zynta," Jorgarn replied, "but I do not enjoy even that. I try not to hurt good people like you though."

That seemed to appease the little girl and she turned around and started off at a trot toward her mother.

Jorgarn found that four of the woman had lost their husbands in the fighting. He felt guilty about their loss but there was little he could do about it. The women all hailed from Vant, a territory on the eastern seaboard. Their husbands had been fishermen so there was no business for them to inherit.

"If you wish, you can come with us to the capital," Jorgarn said. "I give you my word I will find housing and provide food for you and your children. If you wish to return to your village, I will escort you back to your parents or siblings. Please, there is no need to decide now; we will camp here at least tonight so you can let me know in the morning."

Two of the women seemed pleased at the arrangement and one just stared at him as though she didn't understand him. The fourth was determined to be unhappy with anything short of the resurrection of her husband.

By the time the families were sorted there were three men who remained unclaimed. Jorgarn knew one of them had a wife who did not wish to return to him, claiming he had traded her to the conspirators for a new sword. Her claim was backed up by two others in the group.

"Well, it is a shame he didn't recognize your worth," the guard next to Jorgarn said, "but at least you will inherit a new sword. Sir Jorgarn, could I attend to this matter?"

Jorgarn was surprised because the young man before him had rarely spoken. He did his duty well but he was quiet.

"Certainly, Master Negarin," Jorgarn said. "I am certain Sir Torbert will allow it. Mistress, do you wish to see this done? Again, it is your choice."

The woman pondered for a moment but then said she did. She deftly swung on to the back of Negarin's horse behind him and they trotted over beside Jorgarn.

"Ah, the last one," Sir Torbert said. "Bad business this but it is at least gratifying to reunite families."

He saw the look on Jorgarn's face and frowned.

"Oh, yes, I believe you told me your name was Ilna, is that correct?" he asked.

The woman gulped.

"Yes, Sir Torbert," she said. She tried to bow from horseback and would have toppled off if Nagarin hadn't caught her. "Thank you for remembering me."

"I try to remember everyone, dear," Torbert said wearily. "But, Sir Jorgarn is much better at it than I am. Now, should I send your wayward spouse back to retrieve your sword or will any new one do?"

Ilna laughed.

"It doesn't appear than many of them were used, so any you find will suffice, Sir Torbert," she said.

Torbert turned to the men who were standing there. One looked physically ill, although the other two didn't seem much better.

"Sir Torbert," Jorgarn interrupted. "Master Nagarin has volunteered to tend to this matter. Will that pose a problem?"

Torbert turned to look at the man on the horse in front of the woman.

"That is no problem at all," Torbert said. "Thank you, Master Nagarin. That is most kind of you to take such a cumbersome task."

"It will actually be my pleasure, Sir Torbert," he said with a stone face. "I find I dislike warfare but I believe I will enjoy this."

He bound from his horse, walked to the man in the middle who was protesting that he only did it to save his wife and beheaded the man. Then he walked to the middle of the small road, poked around until he found what appeared to be a new sword and came back with it. He cleaned it on his trousers and presented it to Ilna, hilt first.

"Your sword, Mistress Ilna," he said as he bowed formally at the waist.

Jorgarn and Torbert shared a smile before turning to the men in front of them.

"Two more liars for the water," Torbert said sadly. "Why would someone lie to me when they knew I would find out? I offered them a decent burial and the lives of their families."

Jorgarn was about to speak when a small figure hit him in the legs. He looked down and saw Zynta.

"That one, Sir Jorgarn," she said, pointing to a boy on the left. He didn't appear to Jorgarn to be much older than 10 or 11. "He is the one who was nice to me. He helped me."

Jorgarn glanced at Torbert, who nodded, before approaching the boy.

"What is your name?" he asked.

"Trivi," the boy answered tentatively.

"Why did you lie to Sir Torbert?" Jorgarn said.

"I didn't lie, Sir Jorgarn," he answered.

"Did he not ask you if you had a wife or a daughter held captive?" Jorgarn asked.

"Yes, Sir, but he also asked who had been compelled to fight," the boy said. "I don't know what the word means but I think it means did I ask to come here. I didn't ask. I was forced."

Jorgarn sighed.

"So you were kidnapped and dragged here?" he wondered.

"By my father," Trivi said. "My father made me come here. He made me take a sword. I didn't want to. But he came so I had to."

"Where is your father now?" Torbert, who had walked up, asked.

"Dead," the boy said simply. "He was pushed over the hill."

Jorgarn and Torbert exchanged glances before Jorgarn stole a look at Zynta.

"How old are you?" he asked Trivi.

"Fourteen in a few months," the boy replied. "I'm not really sure when. But I know it was almost at the end of the year."

"Do you have other family?" Torbert wondered.

The boy shook his head.

"I spare you for the kindness you showed this young lady during her harrowing experience," Torbert said. "You will accompany the Guard to the capital and work as an apprentice to me until you reach 15 when you will enlist. You will serve Emertland for at least three years. That is your sentence. Do you agree?"

The boy fell to his knees.

"Yes, Sir Torbert," he said. "Thank you. I will not disappoint you."

Torbert turned and knelt beside Zynta.

"You have done a brave thing and saved me from making a horrible mistake, dear," he said as he patted her shoulder gently. "Thank you and I will always be in your debt. You need but ask and I will help you if I can."

"The same is true for me," Jorgarn added with a smile. "Now, let us return you to your family."

A young Guard wound up carrying Zynta on his shoulders across to her waiting parents.

"And you?" Torbert turned the last man who remained standing before them. "What is your story?"

The man didn't answer.

"He doesn't speak Emerti," Trivi said. "At least I've never heard him speak it."

Belad, the only one who spoke multiple languages, was summoned. He tried Umbrian to no avail. Salarian was similar to Emerti and that was a failure. Belad tried Gobrik and Longview before exhausting his knowledge. It was a former mercenary who provided the answer.

"He is from Velotta," he called from across the field. "I recognize his boots."

The man turned at the sound of his country. But he didn't speak. Finally the Freelander came forward and tried to communicate using his limited vocabulary of Velottan. It was only partly successful.

"He is either a goat herder or a lettuce farmer," the man said. "He is not a soldier that much I know."

"How?" Jorgarn asked, perplexed. The former mercenary pulled up his tunic sleeve to show a scar on his forearm.

"They brand us," he said with a harsh look. "Like we're horses or something. He has no brand."

The man stopped speaking for a moment and eyed the man carefully.

"Take off his boots," he said. "Oh, sorry, Sir Jorgarn. Would it be possible to remove his boots so I may see what is beneath them?"

Jorgarn laughed. The man struggled mightily but was soon subdued and his boots removed. He wore fine silken stockings.

"A nobleman," the mercenary said with dislike, "or at least a rich merchant. He wears no brand, so I suspect the former. He could be worth a ransom."

Torbert spat.

"He could be worth another war," he said. "Push him off the cliff but keep the boots if you want them. I have neither seen nor heard of any Velottan noblemen. Have any of the rest of you?"

The group shook their heads in unison.

The nobleman was still struggling against his bonds when he was dragged to the edge of the cliff. He suddenly remembered he spoke Emerti.

"You will pay for my death!" he said.

"Why?" Jorgarn asked. "You were never here."

He jerked his head and the former mercenary sent the Velottan dignitary over the edge to the sharp rocks below. The man screamed the entire time until he landed. Then he was silent. Jorgarn was certain the horrid, screeching voice followed by a sickening crunch would haunt his nights for years to come.

"Let's go back to where we camped last night," Torbert said. "I want a full accounting of our roster shortly after we arrive."

The road was bloody but clear when the men crossed it again. The women and children were offered horses, which they gladly accepted. Zynta insisted that Trivi lead hers and Jorgarn felt slighted for a moment.

"Women are fickle," Pernice said with a laugh as he patted him on the shoulder. "Haven't you realized that by now?"

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck and blindDog.



-------

Chapter 49


From the point of view of the Combined Forces, the attack was almost a complete success. There were no deaths from Emertland, Tark or Freeland, although there were a few serious injuries. One young Guardsman would almost certainly lose his lower right leg.

He received a terrible slash from a man he was certain he had killed after he disregarded the first warning he'd received from Jorgarn and Pernice: An injured opponent has nothing to lose. The trainers had told the men repeatedly, "Do not move forward until you are positive you have killed or disarmed your opponent."

The Guard's right calf was severed by his fallen – but still living – opponent and the rebel soldier's knife was imbedded in the man's shin bone. Another Guardsman was stabbed in the shoulder and several, including Fieth, would have fresh scars to prove they were there. Torbert shook his head at the news. The Emertland Guard provided less than 12 percent of the men and women who took part in the battle but 99 percent of the wounded.

The Rangers had begun harassing the enemy while inside Renoit's territory. The first report had 103 men-at-arms, nine commanders and six Lords in total.

The rebellion's leaders had marched 84 soldiers and six Lords into Darnot. One was killed by a Ranger before the actual battle began and only 27 warriors and three Lords had survived the initial flurry.

Jorgarn counted seven men who Torbert managed to reunite with their families and the three Lords captured by the Cavalry as the only survivors of the 118 men who set out to overthrow King Landor by force. He found himself saddened as he looked around. Even the joy of seeing the soldiers from his side sitting and talking to each other and seeing the few men and who had been freed from captivity didn't lessen his depression.

"We have no list of the enemy's dead," Pernice reported. "Some of the survivors have given us names of men they knew were there. The captured leaders are not speaking."

Jorgarn nodded grimly.

"They will," he assured his friend. "You know what we learned in Umbria. They will tell us all they know and much of what they only suspect by the time we're done with them. Who do we have? I didn't bother to look."

"Ducotte's brother, Troch and Borsik," Pernice replied. "Vant, Osper and Thane were killed. Torbert recognized them. The five men who claimed nobility were sons from Brestid, Nooth, Wallingford and one of Esselrig's boys and his son-in-law."

"Well, there is no reason for him to remain in the dungeon any longer once we return," Jorgarn said. "We know why he was trying to leave and we know how information arrived to the insurgents from the castle."

"What are our new orders?" Pernice asked. "Many are wondering if we shouldn't just send a small group back with the captives and wounded while the rest of us head north from here. The Freelanders have volunteered to go with us to relieve the displaced landholders of their possessions. They can cross into Freeland by land as easily as from sea. The Tarks feel the same way. They are willing to attend to the Eastern section and simply go home from there."

"I would prefer we had horses for everyone," Jorgarn said. "I do not want any man or woman walking for seven weeks. It is ridiculous. Do you know anywhere in Darnot that I can purchase 400 horses?"

Pernice was still pondering when a young woman spoke.

"Lady Peth has perhaps a hundred horses in her stables," she said. "I used to have to attend to them before I was of age. I believe Lord Wanner also breeds them. With a day's walk, you could have close to half of what you need. Those are Crown properties now, correct?"

Jorgarn smiled at the inventive young woman.

"Traymer told me he was always around horses, too," Jorgarn said. "I will bet the former Ducotte lands will yield some fine breeds. Let us speak to Torbert about this. Would you please accompany us, since you are the one who has figured out the solution to our quandary?"

Torbert considered the situation for only a moment before deciding. He would take 50 men and return to the capital with the three captured leaders, the wounded, the four women Jorgarn had promised sanctuary, Trivi and two other families who wished to live there.

Fieth and Renoit would take 100 men and women to secure the lands and horses of Peth while the rest of the group would march to them later. The same would be done with Wanner, which lay north of Peth, and then Brestid, northward of Wanner.

They would then split up the groups once transportation was secured.

Fieth and Renoit would continue north into Troch and Osper, checking first to ensure Fieth manor and its residents were safe.

Jorgarn and Pernice would take the Tark Archers and 30 more men and attend to removing the Nooth, Ducotte and Vant families from their manors. The Archers would return home from Vant and Jorgarn's group would meet up with Fieth's in Osper.

Lippit and Belad would take soldiers to clear the Renoit and Aybester lands. Then they, too, would meet at Osper manor. Chicote was disappointed he wouldn't get to arrest his sister but Jorgarn pointed out that Chicote would likely have to kill her if she knew it was him.

The families were to be given one chance to surrender. If they complied, they were to be arrested and sent to the capital to await Landor's decision. If they refused, they were to be killed to the last member. If the household staff put up resistance they were to be subdued with the least force necessary. But if they persisted, they were to be killed.

Jorgarn wrote out the necessary orders and Torbert signed them and affixed his seal before heading back to the capital. Jorgarn and Pernice gave him letters to deliver to Bralan, Leyota, Astid and Saneth and Belad gave him one for Vellendira, who had finally been convinced to remain behind – to ensure the cold Marnit had picked up did not worsen.

Jorgarn' group included the 25 Archers and 25 Raiders, whose horses could carry another rider if he were small and 10 members of the Guard. They took only a half dozen horses from the Peth stables and headed east. There was no need for all 350 men to ride into Wanner and Brestid. Those holdings barely held more than 350 inhabitants each and could be crossed in only a few hours on a horse.

The group camped in southern Nooth for the night and arrived at the manor just before daybreak. There were no guards on duty and no one patrolled the grounds. The village outside of the manor was silent as the men rode through.

The sound of Jorgarn's sword hilt on the heavy wooden door roused the household and the King's soldiers charged through before the door was even partially opened. The poor housemaid who answered the loud, incessant banging was sent skittering across the floor on her rear.

Pernice offered her a hand up and then instructed her that she needed to bring the senior servant forward immediately. She was told in no uncertain terms that any resistance from the house staff would be put down most harshly.

Jorgarn and Pernice stood in the entryway surveying the finely crafted ornaments that adorned it. In the entire region they had seen nothing but shacks and hovels for the residents. But Lady Nooth's entry chamber was more ostentatious than the palace.

It was only a few minutes before the tall, imperious woman stormed into the room, accompanied by five members of the Tark Archers.

"I demand... ," she screeched before Jorgarn's voice rang out.

"You will demand nothing!" he yelled. The woman took a step backward but her head still remained high. "I had the honor of killing your son this week. It will cause me no hardship to kill you, too. I am Sir Jorgarn, Knight Protector for the Heiress. This is Baron Pernice Wort. The men who captured you are Tark Archers and this manor is surrounded by the Emertland Cavalry. In the name of King Landor, under the vote of Tribunal, you are stripped of your holdings and placed under arrest for High Crimes against the Crown. You son has already been executed. If you do not surrender immediately, you will be executed in the courtyard when the sun reaches its highest peak."

The woman's face turned scarlet.

"Now see here," she began but again Jorgarn cut her off.

"The only words I want to hear from you are, 'I surrender' or 'I will battle'," he said loudly. Jorgarn's men returned to the chamber with several other people in varying stages of dress.

"The house staff has surrendered," one of the Archers said in his thick accent. "Think they are happy to be rid of her, I do."

A slight smile creased Jorgarn's lips but the former Lady Nooth was incensed.

"You allow foreigners in my home!" she roared.

"You have no home," Jorgarn said dispassionately. "It has been seized. I will take your answer to mean that you do not surrender."

He glanced at Pernice.

"Kill her," he said.

Pernice had not managed to unsheathe his sword before Nooth whimpered, "I surrender."

Jorgarn gestured to the Emertland Guards who stood in the room.

"Bind her and gag her," he said. "I am certain she has a fine carriage. Toss her in it and ride to the capital to deliver her to King Landor. If she puts up any resistance, so much as an unkind word, kill her and return to us. Otherwise, deliver her to the King and see Sir Torbert for your next assignment."

-------

Lord Troch had been nervous for many of the preceding days. He suspected the only thing left for him was to grab what he could and flee to wherever he could find.

The news had trickled in slowly during the past week. First there was news of a great battle in Darnot. Not a battle really, more of a massacre. Troch was certain which side won.

The fighting had germinated from trying to make the best of a mess left by his son, Frayon. Another mess, the Lord thought ruefully. He sent Frayon to Court to gain influence. He had cultivated his sources carefully. He knew the Princess was vulnerable to flattery. And Frayon was handsome, if stupid. Lord Troch was amazed, but pleased, when Frayon announced the King wished him to come to the capital to set up a marriage contract.

Then he learned the truth behind it. He had sent the boy there to gain a friendly ear, not to impregnate the Princess.

It wasn't until that awful Knight had returned from war that things got outside of Lord Troch's control. Frayon had shot his mouth off, gaining several deadly enemies before the sentence was completed.

Landor, of course, had no choice but the force the marriage. But he made it clear from the outset that he would have nothing to do with the Troch family. Landor even had taken to ignoring his daughter.

The real damage, however, was done by that Knight. He left in a huff and took the army with him. But before he left, he made certain everyone in the capital knew why he was leaving and why the Princess was marrying a hopeless cad like Frayon Troch.

The outcry from the nobles was muted. The Princess was, after all, Heiress to the throne. They could little afford to burn their bridges at such an early age. It was the commoners who forced Landor's hand. The Slatternly Princess, she was called.

When Landor forced Denae to forfeit her title, Troch started to move in earnest. With no Heiress, the Court would look to Denae or even little Leyod should the King fall. It was a good plan, Lord Troch thought, made better by the large group of Lords and Ladies who rallied behind it.

Denae's reign, unknown to her, would be short. She had become rather sickly in the past few months and, sadly, would succumb to her maladies only months after assuming the Crown – soon enough that none of her radical ideas could be implemented fully. The Troch family would ensure that.

That would leave little Leyod as the last of Landor's line. Of course, he would need someone to rule in his stead for many years. Frayon seemed to think it would be him. After Denae's passing, it probably would be – for a short while. Esselrig had been instrumental in helping to plan the coup so he would want to step forward. But, he was old and obese. His death would come as a shock to no one.

That would leave Leyod's grandfather, Lord Troch, to reluctantly step forward and fill the breech. But that was gone now.

The ill feeling in the pit of Lord Troch's stomach began when word reached him that Landor would name Bralan Longview as his Heir. She was a veteran of the war and her original family, the Symingtons, was well thought of by many of his supporters. There was also the problem with her foster mother's relationship with that dreadful Knight and the army. They would march on Emertland if Bralan was injured.

Several men had left for home after hearing the news that Bralan was likely to ascend. More left when it became evident that not only did she plan to play upon her ties to the Knight, she had brought him back with her.

Then the Princess disappeared on the way north. Lord Troch had stayed behind in a vain attempt to distance himself. Lord Troch wondered if Frayon had killed her and he would have assumed so if the boy hadn't disappeared at the same time. Frayon had been tight-lipped about what had transpired, saying only that Denae had been put off by the way some of the men handled a young woman caught spying on them. His idiot son seemed to believe that Denae was on their side and would return in time.

Still, it was only a minor concern, given his other misgivings. It was unlikely that two women and a child could hide for very long, particularly in the heart of the insurgency. She would surface eventually. The boy was the most important cog but he would be found when his mother turned up.

Troch wondered why Esselrig had not sent word to them about the army's plans. He also wondered how a small group of ill-trained guards had managed to rout a legion filled with several trained soldiers and hired men at-arms.

The Velottan government, angered at the tariffs Landor had placed on their goods that flooded the northern part of Emertland, had sent a man to help them plan the attack. The Velottans were nothing if not good at warfare.

Troch had known the game was over before the men even passed through his territory for the last time. Word had reached him of Bralan's ascension. Even if Landor fell, she would step forward. The final stroke fell when his messenger, sent to Riset Renoit, returned much too soon. The man reported that Riset had been detained and the holdings seized by the Crown. The word soon arrived that every Lord or Lady who had aided in the conspiracy had suffered the same fate.

It was then that Lord Troch started to urge his household staff to move quicker. There were too many things of value to transport at once. The rest he wanted hidden. The first group to the caves had just arrived back at the manor when he saw more mounted soldiers than he had ever seen before coming up the lane, a man in a blue tunic leading them.

There would be no escape – even if he had somewhere to escape to.

-------

Sir Torbert arrived shortly after the soldiers had finished sorting out the Troch manor – and after they had burned the corpse of the former Lord, who had refused to surrender. He rode through the gates accompanied by six members of the Noble Guard.

Torbert greeted the hails from his men with a wave and clasped the hands of Jorgarn, Pernice and Belad, who were overseeing the removal of several pricy items from the manor.

After each Lord or Lady had been deposed, the soldier in charge had stripped the manor of anything of value and returned it to the Crown. The new landholders would need nothing so opulent and the Crown needed the coin in order to make reparations to the commoners who lived in the affected regions.

"King Landor was a bit disappointed that we chose to take on this assignment before we returned to the capital," Torbert said with a rueful smile. "I believe he planned quite a festivity to greet the returning troops."

"He can have his festivities in a few weeks," Jorgarn said plainly. "We are almost finished with this business."

"Ah, but he will not be able to honor the soldiers from Tark and Freeland as he wishes," Torbert pointed out. "The non-combatants from Freeland have already sailed for home and I'm certain the soldiers will wish to cross into their country as soon as possible."

His smiled widened.

"Which brings me to the real reason for my visit," he said as he turned to Belad. "I ask, Citizen Belad, to be offered the honor of visiting your fine country for the purpose of establishing a time when King Landor might pay an official visit."

Ronac laughed, as he always did, at the title of Citizen.

"You know that was meant in jest, Sir Torbert," he replied. "I am just known as Belad or Ronac. Well, Vellendira has some interesting names she calls me when she is angry but those are usually in Umbrian so I can't understand them."

"Ah, well, I can assure you that I heard many of them when I gave your letter to her," Torbert said as he glanced at Jorgarn and Pernice, too. "King Landor was not the only one who was displeased at my orders. The longer you are away, the more unhappy many of them have become. Sadly, I will learn no more Umbrian invectives. Your wife has departed for Freeland. However, I am learning that young ladies of bearing know quite a few choice words themselves."

"Which is why Jorgarn made sure the orders had your name on them," Pernice pointed out with a laugh. "After all, you were overall field commander. We could not disobey a direct order. It would be mutinous."

"I had that figured as well," Torbert replied. "My own daughter turned on me, though. You should be aware of that. So, Ronac, do you think it will be possible for me to visit your homeland?"

"I would be honored to accompany you, Sir Torbert," he replied with a bow.

"As would we," Jorgarn put in. "I would truly like to visit with Merg and see some of the faces who did not accompany you. I'm sure Fieth and Renoit would enjoy it too, although they have been gone far less time than Pernice or I."

"Then it is decided," Torbert said. "Once we are finished with this awful business, we shall spend a brief holiday in Freeland. By the way, Pernice, Saneth wishes to thank you for ensuring her lands were left alone. Sending that group of Rangers there straightaway saved her people a great deal of anguish."

"That was Jorgarn's idea," Pernice replied.

"Was it?" Torbert said as he tapped his brow. "I don't recall him saying anything. I seem to remember it was you who suggested we do what we could to keep Fieth holdings safe. Does anyone remember differently?"

Belad smirked and shook his head. Jorgarn stifled a chuckle. Pernice looked perplexed but finally shrugged and went about his business.

"Just wait until he sees the reception he receives at the capital," Torbert said with raised eyebrows.

Jorgarn tilted his head back and laughed.

"How are things there?" he asked.

"Interesting," Torbert replied. "Denae has not returned yet. Rayna and Leyod have gone to visit her in your father's holdings. The King, Queen and I made a tour of those areas while you have been dealing with things here. Landor was most effusive in his praise of those who came to his aid. He met briefly with Denae in Elmwood. He refrained from inviting the Princess to return to the castle but only just. For now, she is staying at a cottage on the Elmwood estate. I believe you are familiar with it. It used to be owned by Gorin."

Jorgarn nodded but frowned.

"And Leyota and Marnit?" he inquired. "They are well?"

"They are very well," Torbert assured him. "They miss you, of course. But I assured them you would return within a month or so. Marnit is growing quickly. She is truly a delightful little girl. Bralan is doing exceedingly well. She is everything Landor hoped she would be and exactly what Emertland needs."

Jorgarn smiled widely.

"But we knew that would be the case," he added. Torbert returned his smile and nodded.

"Yes, we knew that to be the case," he agreed. "She, too, awaits your return – as many young women of Court await the return of the men. Do you know of Ducotte's sister? There have been rumors."

Jorgarn nodded grimly.

"We found her chained in the Lord's dungeon," he said. "She attempted to flee, she says to warn us. I don't know. Traymer found her to be a very disagreeable sort. But she was frail and sickly. We left a medic to see to her. She was unsure if the girl would survive."

"I fear we will find more of that as we head north," Torbert told him. "There are several reports at the capital of people missing – including nobles – from the northern territories. Eslada sent word to her manor to give aid to any who fled southward. I hope we find that Freeland gave comfort to them if they fled north."

"I would hope that they would," Pernice put in. "But some of the Council deem immigration as a problem rather than a solution. With Leyota gone, the balance might have shifted. She was the swing vote on many measures."

"Indeed, Leyota was unsure of how a fleeing noble would be treated if he or she made it to Freeland," Torbert said with a shake of his head. "It is another reason I hope we can conclude this business quickly and cross the border."

"I will send men ahead to investigate," Ronac offered. "A small contingent should suffice to scare Snood and his lot."

"The miller?" Torbert asked with raised eyebrows. "He was always a friendly, gregarious man."

Ronac snorted.

"He was only on the Council for a year and it angered him," he replied. "Now he simply tries to stir unrest. He won't allow barter for his wares. He insists upon coinage of some nature. Of course, Freeland has yet to mint coin. It is many years away for us. He has taken his loss of prestige badly – although not as badly as his wife. I believe she traveled back to Emertland intent upon staying. She seemed to think the owner of her husband's business would simply hand it back to her."

He nudged Jorgarn in the ribs.

"What?" the Knight asked curiously.

"Well, will you simply hand it back to Mistress Snood?" Belad asked jovially. "I told her she was best to seek out Leyota or Eslada for an answer because I doubted she would like yours if she bothered you as you were preparing for battle. Of course, I doubt she will like Leyota or Eslada's any better regardless of when she asks them."

There was laughter all around as the men prepared to head northward into final four rebellious territories – Wallingford, Thane, Borsik and Osper.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 50


Jorgarn was not surprised that the makeshift manor houses in the four territories were deserted. There was barely a scrap of firewood to be found in any of them. He knew Osper and Thane were dead, killed by Fieth and Lippit during the battle, and Borsik's son was captive – or executed – at the capital. He also knew that, given the newness of the land holdings, there was little of value that didn't belong to the families beforehand. So he wasn't concerned when the material possessions were gone.

There were many surprised looks on the faces of the commoners when the army rode through. Many of them had seen the tunics before – years prior when they had been conquered. The commoner's lot had not been any better under Emerti rule than it had been under Salarian. Jorgarn's anger rose as he saw the hovels that looked even worse now than they had when he rode through the land the first time. It was especially squalid in the areas governed by Thane and Wallingford – two areas near Freeland that had refused trade offers.

"We need to see to these people," Jorgarn insisted as they stopped at what had passed for Wallingford Manor. "It is a travesty. Look at how they live. Can we do nothing to help them?"

"I am going to ask for craftsmen from Freeland to come down to assist in rebuilding their homes," Torbert said. "This land is too hilly and rocky for much farming so commerce here is weak. That was the problem when it was Salaria."

"The woods could be used for bows," Pernice pointed out. "Perhaps we can work something out between them and Merg. Leyota said we are doing well with foodstuffs. I think the army should leave its provisions here and in Thane. Can we think of nothing these people can raise to support themselves?"

"The lands of Thane and Wallingford have new Lords coming soon," Torbert said. "It will be up to them to decide what to do. But the idea of trading with Freeland is a good one. Let us see if we can find a village elder to help us. Perhaps he can accompany us. I am certain that Merg will be more than willing to help us – or at least he will in a few weeks. For now, let us offer coin and food to anyone who helps us gather fallen timber. Fieth, would you take a few men and ride across into Thane and do the same?"

Elobert nodded and headed off.

"Pernice, I would like you to lead the negotiations here," Torbert said. "You proved most wise during your time at the castle. Also, your ties to Freeland – and its lead entrepreneur – will prove invaluable."

Pernice seemed a bit surprised but nodded his agreement and rode off to seek out a village elder.

Torbert pulled Jorgarn off to the side.

"This land will be his," he said with a gesture toward the Baron Wort. "The Council approved it before I left. Elobert will hold the lands formerly owned by Thane. The new lords are already providing guidance and assistance, even if they don't know it."

Jorgarn laughed so hard he almost fell from his horse.

"Pernice told me he would rather be a privy cleaner than a lord!" Jorgarn roared. "Elobert holds a very dim view of nobility, despite his sister's emergence. You are going to face a difficult time convincing them to accept this."

Torbert put his hand on Jorgarn's arm and looked at him with a serious expression.

"It is necessary for them to do this," he said earnestly. "They are best equipped to rehabilitate these lands. Landor and Bralan have decided that the new Lords and Ladies of the north must have strong ties to their neighbors, to Emertland and to each other. We have always had difficulty here. The old northern nobility – Symington, Fieth and even my sister, Soria – always believed they were too far from the capital to be noticed. All the discord in Emertland for the last 400 years has originated in this area. Bralan has agreed to take control of what used to be Borsik. It is now Gentlewind. Most of the areas up here will be ruled by someone close to you and she. It is important for the safety and longevity of Emertland to convince them to accept their boon."

Jorgarn's eyes narrowed.

"Tell me the rest," he said.

"Well, Chicote is next in line for the Renoit lands," Torbert began. "So Leyota is to be awarded what was formerly Osper. At least that is the Council's recommendation. That will put Bralan, Leyota, Chicote, Saneth, Pernice and Elobert in charge of the northern lands who joined or would have joined is this idiocy. Eslada and Seni were never in question about their loyalty. Lady Seni is a bit addled but her sons have made contact with King Landor to assure him of their loyalty and to see about sending someone to join the Guard. Fairhaven, Eslet, Weming and DeStrad are also firmly behind the Crown – and will be for at least the next generation."

"King Landor is planning to cede Aybester to Tark in recognition of their assistance. Incidentally, he offered independence to all the lands that were formerly Longview and Domita but they declined. They are happy with the way things are. They have a ready port for their goods and the taxes are less than what Swar charged – and less than what an independent country would be forced to charge."

Jorgarn nodded vaguely.

"So that leaves Nooth, Peth, Wanner, Ducotte, Vant, Bresid and Troch," he said.

"And Esselrig," Torbert added. "Some of those have distant relatives who remained loyal. They might be rewarded. The others will have men or women promoted from titled nobility to landed nobility. King Landor's advisers offered two dozen names and so did Bralan's group. Not surprisingly, there were few names that were similar. It has been an arduous process paring them down. The names that were on both lists – or the obvious choices, such as Bralan – were already awarded. Pernice, Elobert, Leyota and another two or three were on both lists. The King inserted them on his list without regard to what his advisers wanted."

Torbert gazed hard at Jorgarn.

"Can I count on you to assist me in convincing a few of these men and women that it is for the best?" he asked. "Can I convince you that it is in the best interest of Emertland's long-term future to have people in charge up here that can be counted upon?"

"Oh, I agree with that," Jorgarn said. "It is mostly I fear losing so many good men and women. I don't see how it serves anyone's purpose to take the best of those we have and shuttle them off somewhere far away."

"There will be stewards appointed in almost every instance, I'm certain," Torbert said. "I do not foresee any of the northern Lords or Ladies spending more than a month or two per year at their estates. Many of them will spend less time. It will not be possible with the other duties that many of them have. I believe that once we have things safely in hand up here, Leyota and Bralan will come north – with you, I'm certain – to introduce themselves to their people and try to assemble a staff. Lady Fieth is assembling a list of steward candidates and there are several others who seem ready to step forward. It will not be as difficult as you suspect."

"You hope," Jorgarn said.

Torbert laughed loudly.

"I hope," he agreed.

-------

There were only a few strange looks as members of the Emertland forces rode through Freeland with Belad and his group.

The Freeland militia wore black tunics that they had adopted prior to coming to Freeland. Black was the only color dye that would cover the red and green tunics they already owned. The Tark archers had been given white tunics to set them apart as a separate entity.

The group recognized Jorgarn, Pernice, Fieth and Renoit. Sir Torbert was also known to some but not to all.

Of course, Merg was all smiles when he saw them approaching – particularly when he saw Jorgarn and Pernice still riding the horses he had procured for them. He swung up behind Jorgarn and rode the rest of the way into the capital with the group.

The reception at the capital was more than Jorgarn had expected. Word had come back with the non-combatants that all the men and women would return healthy and to see so many of them coming down the road caused quite a commotion.

Husbands and wives, boyfriends and girlfriends, mothers and fathers came out to see their loved ones. There were 180 people in rows of four abreast when they crossed the border. By the time they reached the capital, the line behind the soldiers stretched farther then the eye could see.

Sir Torbert rode at the front with Belad and his two lieutenants. Jorgarn, Pernice, Fieth and Renoit followed. The remainder of the Emertis, less than 20 in total, mixed in with the returning Freelanders. They had mixed ranks seamlessly during battle and saw no reason to segregate themselves now.

Vellendira ran out and rode behind Belad for the final portion of the ride.

Once in the small village that had cropped up around the capital, Belad dismounted and the troops followed his lead.

Jorgarn, Pernice, Fieth and Renoit slipped off to the side with Merg. Jorgarn was surprised when Vellendira slipped up beside him and took his arm.

"Your wife and daughter were well when I left," she said. She had picked up the language quickly, Jorgarn thought.

"I understand you delivered Marnit," Jorgarn said. "Thank you. I am heartened to know someone I trust was there to assist."

Vellendira squeezed him arm a little tighter then stepped away to listen to her husband.

"We return from, what is for most of us, the land of our birth," Belad said. "Emertland was my home for 19 years and I hold it dear to my heart. I know a great many of you feel the same way. I wish to report – officially – that Emertland is safe. Those who wished to cause it harm have been dispatched and the entirety of our militia returns safely."

Ronac waited for the cheers to subside before continuing. Jorgarn mused at how the man had grown as a leader in the past years. He felt a sense of pride that he had read the man so well.

"Sir Torbert Doloran, Knight Protector of the Realm, has asked to read a letter from King Landor," he said, ushering Torbert forward. Torbert reached into his tunic and pulled out a piece of parchment.

"To the Citizens of Freeland, it's Councils and its Militia," he read. "The Kingdom of Emertland extends its sincerest thanks for your willingness to send your men and women into harm's way for our benefit. Please know, in the unlikely event your nation is threatened, Emertland will respond with as much force as we can muster to defend Freeland side-by-side as you have defended us. Should a time arise when Freeland requires assistance, it need never look farther than its southern border for friendship."

Torbert closed the letter and looked back up at the crowd.

"This is also the feelings of my brother and King, Landor," he said. "If your militia had not responded, Emertland as we know it would be gone. We lacked the resources to defend ourselves. We lacked the wherewithal to stop this insurrection in its opening stages. As most of you know, I will take some of your citizens southward with me. Jorgarn Elmwood has agreed to be Knight Protector of the Heiress. Pernice Wort, Elobert Fieth and Chicote Renoit have accepted leadership roles in rebuilding Emertland's military so we may stand on our own. Leyota Renoit – or Elmwood, I suppose – a former Councilor of Freeland, will provide the same guidance to the Heiress, Bralan Longview, as she did in helping to build this nation. But they will forever remain citizens of Freeland."

"From the bottom of my heart, I thank you. Not only for coming to my country's aid but for your continuing help to Emertland. It is our pledge that the borders from Freeland to Emertland will remain open and citizens of this republic will have access to any open port in Emertland so long as Landor or Bralan rule. Thank you, again."

-------

Jorgarn found his time in Freeland to be far too short. But he longed to see Marnit, Leyota and Bralan again. With Merg's 15th birthday only weeks away, Jorgarn signed the deed to the land he owned with Leyota over to the boy. Coupled with the new enterprise in Emertland, Merg was overjoyed. Pernice elected to keep his property in Freeland but gave Merg the ability to secure anything he wished from it without compensation.

Merg led a procession of five wagons of food to the former area of Wallingford and sent five more wagons to Thane. He said he didn't care if there was a single scrap of wood ready to be returned, the wagons were to come back to Freeland and restock no more than two days after they arrived.

The young adults who had provided a guidepost for Merg's young life almost burst with pride in their young protégé. Pernice and Jorgarn each hugged the boy tightly before they departed. Neither knew when they would be able to visit him again but they hoped it would be soon.

"I expect to be invited to your wedding!" Pernice said. "There will be a party the likes of which Freeland has never seen. Now promise me that you'll let me know in time to plan and not run off and just get married like someone else we know."

Pernice and Merg each gave Jorgarn a playful poke in the ribs before Merg offered his assurances.

"Leyota would skin me alive!" he told them – only partly in jest. "Besides, it will be years before I'm ready for that. I would wager that you'll be wed before I am, Pernice. So I expect the same courtesy."

Torbert gave Merg a warm embrace and the trio, with 20 Emertland soldiers, headed back south.

"I had Merg do something else," Jorgarn said as they rode forward. "We're not leaving out of Eslet. The ship is going to meet us at the small port in Seni. I hope no one minds but I want to pay my respect to Bren's mother. I should have done this years ago."

Pernice and Torbert thought it was a fine idea and the soldiers with them understood it was the same distance either way.

It was two days later when Jorgarn, Torbert, Pernice, Fieth and Renoit presented themselves at Seni manor. There were two guards stationed at the gate – and one of them bore a striking resemblance to Bren.

Jorgarn dismounted and greeted the man with a bended waist – which startled the gatekeeper.

"I am Jorgarn Elmwood," he said. "This is Sir Torbert, Lord Chicote Renoit, Baron Pernice Wort and Master Elobert Fieth. We would like to pay our respects to your family and to offer our belated condolences to your mother on the death of her son."

The young man snapped to attention instantly.

"Of course, Sir Jorgarn!" he said. "I am Selit. Welcome Sir Torbert, welcome all of you. Please, if you will allow me just a moment, I will announce you to my brother."

The man turned and ran toward the manor house as swiftly as he could. The older man at the gate stifled a chuckle.

"He is a bit excitable, gentlemen," he said. "I am Neuic Seni. I am the uncle to Lord Seni."

Jorgarn tilted his head.

"I hope nothing happened to Lady Seni," he said.

The older gentleman looked at his feet for a moment.

"She has been somewhat confused of late," he said. "We convinced her it was best for her to step aside and let her son take over. We planned to announce it at Court but I fear we will be late this year. There is much we need to attend to and it is an arduous journey down the coast."

The conversation was interrupted by Selit's return, accompanied by a man who looked to be in his early 30s and a frail woman in her 50s.

"Sir Torbert, Sir Jorgarn," the man said. "Welcome to Seni Manor. I am Gerrit Seni, the Lord of the Manor. This is my mother. We wish to offer you our hospitality and bid you good tidings."

"Well met, Lord Seni, Lady Seni," Sir Torbert stated as he extended his hand. "We were unaware that you had risen. I do hope we can pay our respects to your dear mother. She has been missed at Court these past two years."

The young man smiled amiably but the woman's expression didn't change. She offered no greeting.

Jorgarn stepped forth and extended his hand to the woman. She didn't take it.

"Allow me to offer you my apology for not coming earlier," he said. "It was unconscionable and I deeply regret it. Your son and brother meant a great deal to me. He was a valiant and brave man struck down by a coward. I pray that you take no disrespect from my callousness for I hold your brother and your family in the highest regard."

Lord Seni nodded but Selit smiled broadly. The woman only looked into Jorgarn's eyes.

"It was a difficult time for you, as well, Sir Jorgarn," Lord Seni said with a sigh as he led them up the path to the house. "I, too, have been spurned and it cut me deeply. My family is aware of all you did to keep Bren in the Noble Guard. He told us of his actions at the time and the shame he felt he brought upon this house. But you gave him the chance at redemption. He was proud to be a member of the Guard and he was proud to serve the King, Sir Torbert and you. I regret my mother's rash actions in regard to Lord Troth and his ilk. She took Bren's death very hard."

Jorgarn nodded and Pernice, Elobert and Chicote stepped forward.

"Your son was a good man who made a mistake," Pernice said. "There was no shame attached to it. Jorgarn might have offered redemption but Bren seized the opportunity and made the most of it. I am proud to say he was my friend. I am proud to say that I had the opportunity to serve with a fine soldier and a gentleman such as Bren Seni. If there is ever anything I can offer your family, you need but name it."

"The same is true for us," Renoit offered. "I, too, apologize for not coming sooner. We got swept up in our own ill tidings and we forgot what is important. I do hope, in time, you will forgive us, Madam."

The woman closed her eyes for a moment and sighed.

"My son was a good man and I thank you for your kind words," she said in a small, halting voice. "I too pray that you will forgive an old woman's foolishness. When I saw the soldiers at the gate, I was certain you had come for my head. I am aware that what I did was treasonous. I regret my actions and I pray that you will not strip this land from my children."

Torbert's laughter boomed.

"Oh, my dear Lady, that was never an option," he said as he took both of her hands in his. "You have been my friend for almost 40 years. You will be my friend for 40 more, I hope. Landor feels the same way. He was dreadfully disappointed that his actions forced us apart. But, I believe Jorgarn will agree that you have a valid grievance. It is we who will offer the apologies."

The woman smiled and 10 years melted off her face.

"Thank you, Torbert," she said sincerely. "I do not dismiss my actions. But I am happy to know you still consider me a friend. I was sorry to hear about Usala. She was such a lovely girl."

Torbert nodded and offered a weak smile.

"Like you, it still pains me to think I outlived my child," he said. "But I hope you take comfort – as I do – in knowing their deaths were avenged and they died in defense of Emertland."

The woman sighed.

"I do not believe they died for Emertland, Torbert," she said with a trace of bitterness. "I believe my son and your daughter died so the men who make money from shipping could continue to make money. No one was going to invade Emertland. No force was going to try to overthrow the King. Our children died because economics were more important to King Landor than their lives. Surely the past few years have shown you that."

Torbert looked at the ground.

"Sadly, I agree with you," he said. "My counsel was ignored. Landor chose to listen to others instead. He viewed it as a test of our mettle. He finally had an army and he was anxious to use it. But things have changed in the past months. The King's men have less power and there are new groups who must agree before something like that can happen again. I do hope you will come to Court to see the changes."

Lady Seni chuckled grimly.

"I am too old to traipse through the mountains for weeks at a time," she said wearily. "And I am too poor to hire a ship to transport those of us who need to go. Gerrit needs to appear to be certified and we have seven men who wish to volunteer for the Guard. I do not believe I will see Court again in this life."

Torbert gave a slight glance at Jorgarn who nodded.

"We have a ship in port and you are welcome to travel with us," he offered. "In fact, your whole retinue can travel with us. I will ensure your transit back to your home when you're ready."

The woman exchanged a glance with her eldest son.

"That is most generous, Sir Torbert," Lord Seni replied. "That would ease our burden considerably and make it possible for us to arrive on time. The coastal route is treacherous and the mountainous areas between Weltin and Esselrig have always posed a danger to our travels."

"There is no longer a region called Esselrig," Torbert spat. "But you are welcome to travel with us via ship. It will be wonderful to have you both there. It has been several years since you have appeared, Gerrit."

The man smiled.

"Close to a dozen, I'd wager," he replied. "I escorted Bren when he joined the Guard. I suppose it is fitting that I return this year. Our youngest sister is finally of age. She will travel with us, I hope."

Torbert brightened noticeably.

"Wonderful!" he exclaimed. "When I made the announcement years ago – about bringing in members whose family had a history of providing service to the Guard, I was thinking expressly of the Seni family. Until Bren's death, I would wager there has been a member of your family in good standing with us for more than 100 years."

Lady Seni returned Torbert's smile.

"There still is," she said. "My sister's son is still there. He was part of the first class of new recruits after the change."

Jorgarn glanced at Torbert, who seemed as confused as he was.

"He was part of the Emertland Guard before they were merged," she continued, seeing the expression on both men's faces. "My sister married a commoner – a good man. Their son is just like his father. When you live this far away and find yourself as isolated as we often do, there is little distinction between who lives in the manor and those we serve. We rely on the other, regardless of who is called what. It has been better since the emergence of Longview. Even when Commerly ran it, the people there still were different – bitter. His stewards spent little time there and so they didn't get the real picture. The new Lady spends time there, though less now that her daughter awaits the throne. But her steward has helped us greatly. We have a bridge now across the river.

"There was no place to ford along our eastern border. We used to be hemmed in on all sides. We had Salaria on our west and north; a river to the east and mountains to the south that were impassable for half the year. The small port is shallow – and as we saw from the Salarian Navy, easily blockaded. Esselrig wanted a dozen Konec for every item that passed through his ports. It was difficult to get information out or information in, let alone anything worth coin. Our only export of value was our men."

"What is your nephew's name?" Jorgarn wondered.

"Negarin Tolomec," Lady Seni replied.

Jorgarn smiled broadly.

"If Master Negarin is just like his father, your sister married well," Torbert announced. "I believe he might have a bride when next you see him."

"You know of him?" Gerrit asked.

"Oh, yes," Pernice replied. "Master Negarin has acquitted himself well, not only in battle but with his valor."

"He has never played upon his ties to this family," Torbert said. "In fact, if he had not been wooing a young woman he rescued during the insurrection, he would be with us now. We will be honored to accept your daughter into the Guard."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 51


Jorgarn exited along with the others, leaving Torbert to catch up with Lady Seni. Pernice, Fieth and Renoit went to make sure the men found a spot to set up the tents while Jorgarn wandered the grounds. He was standing above a ravine, looking down on a beautiful valley when a small hand touched his arm.

"I thought you were intent upon scaring off my dinner," the young girl said harshly.

Jorgarn about jumped from his skin when the arm touched his. It had been years since someone had sneaked up behind him. But it was the girl's words that gave him pause. He had tried to move silently through the forest so as not to disturb the denizens who called it home.

"I was quiet," Jorgarn stated firmly.

"Bah!" the girl replied. "You plod like a horse through here. I suppose you are one of those soldiers I'm expected to feed tonight. It is no wonder you can't catch your own prey. Can you at least help me carry our dinner home since you did nothing but impede me in catching it?"

"Certainly," he said. "I apologize if my presence caused you hardship. I did not know you were hunting."

"You should count yourself lucky I wasn't hunting you," the girl answered. "You walked within 30 paces of me. If I were so inclined, it would be you roasting over a fire tonight. Our game is down over the next hill. Now try to be quieter than you have been. I'm certain that other things have caught wind of the blood."

Jorgarn followed the girl as quietly as he could. She moved with ease though the forests and shot him pointed glances whenever there was a slight rustle – even if he hadn't been the one to make it. As they crested the rise to the next hill, Jorgarn saw a stout stag halfway down the hill.

"He would have come right to me if you hadn't blundered by," the girl said with a sideways glance. "Can you help me carry him up? I've already taken care of the difficult parts."

Jorgarn tried his best to be silent as he walked down the hill but the girl beside him almost glided. He was impressed with her woodcraft – and a bit dismayed that his had slipped so badly.

"You lug the buck, I'll watch for wolves," the girl said. "No need to try to impress me now with your stealth."

Jorgarn chuckled at the girl's feistiness.

"Do you, by chance, know Lady Longview?" he asked rhetorically.

"Of course I do," the girl snapped. "I count Eslada as a dear friend."

Jorgarn replied with the less than elegant, "Oh."

He pondered for a moment before kneeling to lift the deer onto his shoulders. The lone spot of blood on the animal came from its eye socket where an arrow had pierced it.

"Where did you shoot from?" Jorgarn asked. He could see that the animal had traveled only a few feet after the arrow struck it.

"Up there," the girl said as she pointed to a spot far above on a ridge.

Jorgarn knew he couldn't have made the shot on his best day. He shook his head.

"Are you saying that I lie?" the girl asked hotly.

"No," Jorgarn said quickly. Even kneeling he was almost as tall as the girl. "I was shaking my head in wonder, not in denial. Would it be possible for you to carry my sword and tunic? If you do, I think I can heft this onto my shoulders to carry so we don't damage the meat by dragging it."

"Bah!" the girl said again, a look of disdain on her face. "There is no need to try to impress me and wind up killing yourself. But sure, if you would like, I'll tote your arms like a good little lackey. I suppose I better get used to it."

Jorgarn took off his tunic so it didn't get any more stains on it and handed over his long sword.

The sword was almost as tall as the girl.

"Well, maybe not," Jorgarn said as he pondered the incongruity of having her carry something that might weigh half as much as she did. "Let me get this on my shoulders and then you can tuck that back in my scabbard."

The girl looked at the sword, the scratch on the blade being the only flaw, then back up at Jorgarn.

"You take care of your weapons," she said, "or you have never seen battle. Which is it?"

Jorgarn didn't answer but motioned for the girl to put the sword back in his scabbard with a nod.

"My brother died in battle," the girl said. "He did not run away."

The pieces clicked together in Jorgarn's head.

"You are Ronzet," he said.

The girl's eyes widened and Jorgarn smiled.

"Bren always said he had a sister who was like a ghost in the forest," Jorgarn said. "I'll admit I thought he exaggerated. I knew your brother well, Mistress Ronzet. You are right; he did not run from battle. You will make a fine addition to the Guard."

The girl's shoulders slumped slightly.

"If you knew my brother then it is obvious that you did not run from battle either," she said. "I'm sorry for behaving so badly. I was in the middle of packing for my trip to the capital when I was told I had to bring down two bucks to feed your group. I have been cultivating these deer so my family will have food this winter and now I have to slay two of them in order to feed your group. I know it is not your fault and I hope you will forgive my attitude when I start my training."

"Oh, you will lose your attitude when your training starts," Jorgarn promised with a smile. "But you will be treated no worse than the rest of your lot."

"Why did you ask if I know Lady Longview?" Ronzet asked as they neared the top of the hill. She was impressed by Jorgarn's strength in toting the animal. It would have taken two of her brothers to help her drag the thing up the hill and this man just lugged it as it were nothing.

"Oh, I have been on the receiving end of a tongue lashing or two from her," Jorgarn said with a smile. "Your temper reminded me somewhat of hers. That is all. I really didn't mean for you to have to answer me. I was simply trying to make a joke to myself."

"Are you from Longview?" she asked. She was gratified to see that the man beside her was at least breathing hard now.

"Yes and no," Jorgarn replied. "I am from Longview but not the region in Emertland. I am from the former country."

The girl stopped in her tracks as Renoit and Pernice appeared.

"Jorgarn!" Pernice said he came forward. "Let me help with that."

"I've got it," Jorgarn replied. "Besides, I have to redeem myself in Mistress Ronzet's eyes."

He glanced to his left but saw the girl no longer was beside him. He turned to find her kneeling on the path behind him.

"Sir Jorgarn, I apologize," she said. "I had no idea who you were. I would never have behaved that way around you."

"Up," Jorgarn said. The deer was starting to get heavy and his neck was starting to hurt. "Take this blasted thing, will you?"

Pernice chuckled and he and Renoit took the deer by its legs to carry it the remainder of the way.

"Will you stand up, for Creation's sake," Jorgarn said. "You need never bow to me. And I am not upset about how you spoke to me. It reminded me of my stepmother and my wife."

"Wives," Pernice put in. "Don't forget Bralan."

Ronzet had stood but her eyes widened at Pernice's joke.

"Baron Pernice Wort, Lord Chicote Renoit, may I introduce you to Mistress Ronzet, the youngest sister to Bren Seni," Jorgarn announced. "She will be joining us on our trip to the Capital."

The girl looked back and forth from the three men.

"You're... ," she stammered. "You were my brother's friends."

"And now we are your friends," Chicote said as he extended his hand to the girl.

"But I thought you all left Emertland," Ronzet said. "I mean, I knew Sir Jorgarn and Baron Wort had returned. But will the rest of you stay?"

"We will," Chicote replied with a smile. "There is much to do to rebuild this country and the Guard. Many of us have elected to come back to our homeland for that purpose. By the way, that tunic looks good on you but you aren't supposed to wear it as a dress."

Ronzet looked down at what she wore. She had put Jorgarn's tunic over her clothes rather than carry it to keep her hands free. There were some predators in the woods that held little fear of man.

"Don't worry, we'll find one that fits," Chicote laughed. The girl's face turned red.

"Once you deliver that to the manor, meet us back here," Jorgarn said. "You have to see where she took this stag. It is amazing."

He turned to Ronzet.

"You need not worry about providing us with meat," Jorgarn said. "We purchased a great deal of fish in Eslet in preparation for our visit. I am glad I caught you before you found another deer."

"Did you really shoot a boar when you were 10?" Ronzet asked. "Eslada, I mean, Lady Longview, said that you were the best archer she had ever seen."

Jorgarn chuckled.

"Then she obviously has not seen you," he replied, "because the shot you took to bring down that stag was one that I never could have made."

He turned to Pernice and Chicote as the girl blushed.

"At least 40 paces, downhill, at a moving target, dead in the eye," Jorgarn related. "Then, still carrying her bow, she sneaked up behind me and scared me half to death. That hasn't happened in years. I would suggest that I might be losing my edge but I think it is more a matter of her skill as opposed to my lack of skill."

"It was a lucky shot," Ronzet protested weakly.

Chicote simply chuckled and shook his head.

"Oh, we might dismiss the deer as happenstance," he said, "but not the other. Well, Baron Wort, shall we deliver this fine venison to the cooks and then return?"

"We shall," Pernice said with a smile. He could already picture the scene when he related the story to Leyota and Bralan. Jorgarn would never hear the end of being bested by a girl who was no higher than his elbow.

When they returned, Fieth and Torbert accompanied them – as did Lady Seni and her eldest son.

"Ronzet, are you creating trouble already?" Lord Seni asked. He didn't appear to be joking.

"No, I'm not!" Ronzet said. The temper she showed earlier was back in full force. Chicote snickered behind his hand – to where she couldn't see him but his friends could.

Jorgarn intervened and put his hand on the girl's shoulder. She immediately shook it off.

"Lord Seni, your sister has impressed me greatly today," he said. "She is an excellent woodsman – woodswoman? – woods something. She is also as fine an archer as I have seen."

The man relaxed a little until Jorgarn turned to Ronzet.

"However," he said as he turned his focus to the girl, "if she does not rein in her temper and her mouth a bit, I do foresee problems for her during training. Your skill is exemplary, Mistress Seni, but if you continue to allow your temper to determine what you say before you think and to make decisions for you, you will find training to be an arduous proposition. Once the trainers learn to provoke you, they will use that knowledge to your disadvantage. You need not heed my advice until you arrive at the training grounds. But once you are accepted into the Guard, it would be wise to know that some members of the staff will take affront at the demeanor you showed your brother."

Ronzet took a deep breath and nodded.

"I apologize, Lord Seni," she said. Apologies were obviously foreign to the girl. "I did not mean to create hardship and I hope you will forgive me if I have."

Lord Seni nodded.

"Lead us to where you took the shot," Chicote said. "But please know that I am not nearly as adept in the woods as I am in other areas."

Ronzet led Torbert, Elobert, Chicote and Pernice off to the woods while Jorgarn stayed behind with Lord Seni and his mother.

"I, too, apologize if I overstepped my bounds," he told them. "She is not my recruit yet and I should not have spoken to your charge that way."

Lord Seni dismissed it with a wave of his hand.

"It is why we felt she should not be the one we sent this year," his mother intoned. "She is too arrogant for someone of her age. I wished to send my brother's son but she bested him in competition. I suppose he will wait a year or perhaps make the trek on his own. I believe it would be better if she stayed behind a year to mature."

"I'm certain they both can go if you can spare them," he said. "As you might have noticed, we have restructured the Guard once again. There is less segregation than even in the past few years. The tunics represent the person's function rather than to whom he was born. Red is the infantry. Green is the Scouts. Blue is the Cavalry. The commanders wear tunics the same color as their troops but with black piping. Those of us who are unassigned simply wear what we always wore. We will accept your nephew and your daughter in the same class if they both can pass our tests. To my knowledge, there has never been a man or woman from this region who couldn't, so I don't figure that to be an issue."

"Are you certain it won't create hardship with other families?" Lady Seni asked.

Jorgarn shrugged.

"To be absolutely blunt, milady, I don't care if it does," he replied. "I have had my fill of the noble families of Emertland – with a few notable exceptions – and I refuse to cater to their whims any longer. The Guard is the sole purview of Sir Torbert and me. If any are unhappy with our decisions, they are welcome to discuss it with us."

The woman smiled at Jorgarn.

"Then I will tell Neuic to send for his son," she said happily. Lord Seni looked pleased.

"I am happy to hear your words, Sir Jorgarn," Gerrit said. "I know your stepmother well. I know she agrees with you."

Jorgarn shrugged again.

"It is only my opinion and that bears little weight, milord," he told the man. "The King and I are at odds over many things. His attitude in the preceding years has changed him from the man I knew when we went to war. The situation with his daughter has also posed great problems for him. I did not help matters with my actions so we remain distant. Just because I believe something should be done, does not mean it will be. I can only affect change in the Guard and that is where I limit my efforts."

Lord Seni nodded his agreement.

"You will have more influence with the Heiress though," he said. "At least Eslada believes you will."

"The problem is that power seems to turn people's heads," Jorgarn replied. "Bralan is an enigma to me. We were close during our time in Salaria and Gobrik and I believe I have a firm understanding of her true person. But I would have said the same about Denae. I would have been wrong, too."

"I was once pledged to marry Lady Wanner's daughter," Gerrit admitted. "She comes from an area not unlike this one and I came to care for her greatly. A month before we were to wed, she was introduced to a minor noble from Velotta. The next I heard, she had departed with him to be married. Our betrothal was ended without so much as a word to me. This region does not offer much in the way of goods and services, so she felt she would better herself by going abroad. It saddens me to this day because I think she would have been happy here if she had only permitted herself to think of something else besides instant gratification."

Jorgarn nodded his agreement. It summed up Denae's actions perfectly.

"Eslada visits here regularly," he continued. "Truly, I wish my mother had set my match with her instead of Denora Wanner. But, when we were younger, Eslada's reputation was not that of someone a man would wish to marry."

"I have heard that her reputation was not on course with reality," Jorgarn replied.

"As I have grown older, I can see that to be the case," Gerrit said sadly. "But when you are young, you tend to care more about perception. I now understand it was simply her sisters' jealousy that led to it. Certainly, she is still outspoken and honest but I do not look at those things as negatives."

Jorgarn surprised the man by putting his hand on Lord Seni's shoulder.

"You should tell her that," he said solemnly. "I believe Eslada cares for me so much because I have always accepted her as she is. I never cast aspersions because she didn't match up to what I saw as the ideal stepmother – or even woman. I always appreciated her blunt assessment of a situation."

He paused for a moment.

"Well, I suppose it is more accurate to say that I always came to appreciate it eventually," he chuckled. "There are times when it was not met with much enthusiasm when she gave it."

Gerrit smiled wanly.

"We have little to offer anyone here," he said. "Longview is a prosperous region. We are not. A match with me would have no benefit for Eslada."

Jorgarn laughed.

"Lord Seni, this region will prosper, too," he said. "Your mother said it best. You had little to export except your men. Well, now you will be surrounded by allies. Lord Fairhaven and Lady Eslet wish to befriend your family. I can assure you that the new lords in the northern regions will be your allies. This area is not going to be forgotten. Already, I can see Merg's eyes lighting up at the prospect of trading with you and I can assure you that you'll have ships in your port from this point forward as it seems I own several."

"Merg?" Gerrit asked.

"Oh, the most influential man in Freeland," Jorgarn replied. "He is my ... well, I'm not sure what he is to me. My wife or I have cared for him since he was a boy. Now he is a young man who manufactures longbows. He is an astute trader, I can tell you that. The Emperor deeded him lands within Swar for the sole purpose of assuring an alliance with him. He produces much of the food for the country and almost all of its exports. He recently claimed land along the border region with Emertland. He plans to do the same thing there as he has done in Swar – make it a huge farm. But he plans to use it to trade with Emertland."

"What do we have that he would wish to trade with us?" Gerrit said with puzzlement.

"Wood," Jorgarn said with a sweep of his hand. "He would bring 30 men with him and sweep this region of every piece of fallen timber. In return, he would provide grain or corn for your region for a set number of years. He is always generous in his terms and he rarely uses anything that is still standing. He tries to use only timber that has recently fallen. Some he uses for his longbows but the rest he uses for wagons or housing or anything else that requires wood."

The smile that had crept across Jorgarn's face was evident.

"You are proud of him, that is obvious," Gerrit said as Pernice appeared at the corner of the manor.

"Well, from the look on Jorgarn's face, he is discussing Leyota, Marnit, Bralan, Drosset or Merg," Pernice said. "He only gets that funny look when he talks about that group."

"Merg," Gerrit said. "I plan to pay a visit to him after Court."

"Leyota is authorized to negotiate for him," Jorgarn said. "She is my wife."

"One of his wives," Pernice said with an elbow to the ribs.

Jorgarn looked down and blushed.

"Eslada has confided in me," Gerrit said with a laugh. "You need not feel guilty about stealing all the eligible women of Emertland."

-------

The Seni family joined the warriors on the ship to the capital. Torbert and Lady Seni had been friends in their youths and Jorgarn took delight in listening to the stories the woman provided – since Eslada had filled everyone in on Jorgarn's escapades as a child.

Jorgarn also noticed that Ronzet very rarely strayed from Renoit's side for very long. He chuckled inwardly. Chicote had been the "eligible" bachelor for many years, preferring to spend time with a number of young women rather than commit to just one.

Jorgarn didn't consider the man to be a cad. He was upfront and honest and, to Jorgarn's knowledge, never promised anything he didn't plan to deliver. He simply didn't enjoy being tied down and he didn't seem interested in letting the young woman know the decent man which lurked beneath the charming, humorous exterior.

But he was now Lord Renoit and different expectation followed that promotion. The same would be true for Pernice and Elobert. They would ascend to Lordships and perhaps leave the capital for their new climes. He didn't know if it would become necessary to leave the Guard to attend to their duties. He hoped it wouldn't but suspected it might turn out that way.

Jorgarn glanced at the faces of some of the younger guardsmen and thought of the ones who had already arrived at the capital. It would be a good group to work with but he wasn't certain of their leadership potential.

Some, such as Seni's nephew, Nagarin, showed promise. Then of course, there was Drosset. Jorgarn had been somewhat dismayed when Drosset had accepted a position with the Archers upon his graduation. Jorgarn had already pegged him as his adjutant.

Still, according to Pernice, Drosset had performed admirably in setting up the attack site and developing the breastwork for protection. Pernice now had him slotted in as his adjutant. Jorgarn knew Drosset simply wanted to make a name on his own rather than play on his ties to Jorgarn. Still, he had missed seeing the young man when he was in Freeland and he missed seeing him every day now that they resided only so close.

Venat Seni, Lady Seni's nephew, was a quiet young man. He was physically strong but raw. Jorgarn could see how Ronzet had bested him in a contest, particularly since she had been the one to set the rules. Venat stood as tall as Jorgarn but was broader in the chest. With some work, he would be a fine infantryman.

The young woman who suggested taking horses from the seized properties showed great initiative but Jorgarn had not thought at the time to get her name. She had been split off from his group early on and had been among the group to escort the captive Riset Renoit back to the capital. He would need to see if she planned to make the Guard her career.

But that was in the future. For now, Jorgarn needed to focus his attention upon his arrival and how to quell the anger he was certain Leyota and Bralan would hold because of his six-month disappearance.

"Do you suppose Eslada will be there?" the incoming Lord Seni asked from his side, startling him out of his thoughts.

"I would suppose so," Jorgarn replied. "She is there more often than not. With Bralan presiding over her first Court, I am certain Eslada will be nearby."

Gerrit blushed slightly.

"Oh, of course," he said. "I didn't think of that. The stepmother to the Queen..."

He shook his head.

"She is not Bralan's stepmother," Jorgarn pointed out. "She is my stepmother. She simply took guardianship of Bralan when it was necessary. Eslada is a study in contradictions. Those who despise her believe her to be unwilling to bend upon any point. Those who adore her know she is kind and caring. Truly, I think it is a matter of reputation. Those who dislike her tend to dwell on what they've heard rather than believe what they see."

"The same can be said of you, Sir Jorgarn," Gerrit said. "We have seen many pass through our lands in the preceding years from what were Salaria and the other regions. To each of them, you are considered to be a monster – a man who enjoys nothing more than dealing out death and destruction. Yet, when I speak to you, I see none of that. When Bren would speak of you, he mentioned nothing of the sort. People fear you because you have the reputation of a man who can and will kill. But once they know you, it is difficult not to like you. Little things like ensuring my mother gets to see one more Court before she dies and allowing us to bring a second person into the Guard mean a great deal more to people than you might suspect."

"I do those things because they are the right things to do," Jorgarn protested. "Your mother suffered because of my actions. It is the least I can do to try to make amends. Perhaps if I had paid a visit to Traymer Ducotte's brother there would have been one less mutinous region. Perhaps if I had not been so unbending in regard to Denae, this all could have been avoided."

Gerrit put his hand on Jorgarn's arm.

"You must not think your actions influenced the decisions of others," he cautioned. "Ducotte was never an ally. He was unhappy that Traymer could not be knighted. He felt it would give him – the older brother – the inside shot at marrying the Princess. The same is true with Denae. You cannot blame yourself for how you reacted. Was it rash? Perhaps. Was it warranted? I believe anyone would have reacted as you did. She underestimated you. Eslada warned her on at least three occasions about what would happen when you returned. Denae had found something that gave her power over powerful men. She used it upon you and it worked for a while. With others, it worked longer. You, yourself, told her what would happen if she strayed again. This situation is not your doing. Yes, it is possible you could have taken steps to avoid it but that would have meant losing yourself in the process. No one would want that. I like you."

"Thank you, Lord Seni," Jorgarn said with warmth. "I like you, too. Bren always spoke so highly of his family. My family ... well, it wasn't like that. I had nothing to compare it to. Now I think I understand how tightly knit your family is and I understand why. You all like one another and you respect them."

"Most of the time," Gerrit joked. "Uh, so, you would not mind if I asked to court Eslada?"

Jorgarn stifled a smile. The man was earnest and deserved an earnest answer.

"No," Jorgarn replied. "However, I am the least of your worries. She also counts another Noble Guardsman and the future Queen of Emertland as her close companions."

Gerrit's shoulders slumped for a moment.

"They won't matter either," Jorgarn said. "If it bothers me, Bralan, Drosset or Creation herself, Eslada is the only one you have to convince. And I don't believe that will cause you any difficulty at all."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 52


The ship arrived in port only a few minutes after the bells tolled to open Court. Although none were dressed for it, Sir Torbert and Sir Jorgarn decided they and the Senis would make their way to where Landor and Bralan were conducting the opening speeches. The rest of the group would get to go to sleep for a few hours.

"Lucky them," Jorgarn said through gritted teeth. He disliked the pomposity of Court. He hated that everyone around the room seemed to put on airs and try to act haughtier than that one before him. He disliked that everyone believed they should bow and scrape not only to the Heiress, previously Denae and now Bralan, but to him, too.

Certainly there were some he enjoyed to see humbled when they went to bended knee in front of him. He particularly noted that Sir Torbert would often require those he disliked – the King's advisers, for example – to conduct the entirety of their business from the floor. Jorgarn had yet to go that far, although upon occasion he had felt as though he should.

He had been in residence only twice during Court. He found the first time ridiculous because of Denae's actions during it. He found the second maddening because all the talk was war and commerce.

He wondered if Bralan could withstand the flattery. He wondered if she had already succumbed to the glib speech and glad-handing as quickly as Denae had. He worried that he would kill someone if she had.

Strangely, he didn't worry about Leyota. It wasn't that he took her for granted. He simply had been with her for so many years and she had never let him down. She was steadfast in her loyalty and commitment to him. She had never wavered and he expected she never would.

A thought struck him: Bralan had never wavered either. She was as committed to him – and he to her – as Leyota. With a smile and a warmed heart, he offered his arm to Lady Seni when they disembarked.

"Please, fair Lady, allow me the honor of escorting you to your seat," Jorgarn intoned.

"Oh, I'm certain you have other things you need to be doing rather than that," she said with a blush.

"Nothing I would find as enjoyable, I can assure you, Lady Seni," Jorgarn replied honestly. "If this is to be the last time you enter as head of your house, I would be proud to escort you to your seat. I seem to recall that you were second in seniority behind the not-so-dearly departed Lord Esselrig. That would make you first now."

"A dubious honor, I can assure you," she laughed. "It means that I am older than dirt itself."

"Why, you're not even as old as Lady DeStrad," Jorgarn joked. "Do you mean to suggest she was around before dirt?"

"I believe, dear boy, Lady DeStrad created dirt," Lady Seni replied with a laugh. But she clasped Jorgarn's proffered arm and took her son's arm with her other hand.

The Great Hall was strangely silent when he entered. Sir Torbert had hastened from the ship to alert Landor of their arrival. Jorgarn had purposefully dawdled in an attempt to miss the opening speeches. It seemed Torbert had arrived in time to postpone them because Landor and Bralan sat upon their high thrones with Torbert behind Landor and to his side.

"It appears they waited for us," Jorgarn deadpanned. "You must be quite popular."

Lady Seni's slight giggle could be heard by almost all around them.

Gerrit left his mother's side to take his seat behind her – as was custom for the heir to the holding – and Jorgarn extended his hand in friendship to the man. Gerrit smiled and shook it.

"It was my pleasure to get to know you, Master Seni," Jorgarn said. "I truly hope I will get to know you better in the future."

"As do I, Sir Jorgarn," Gerrit replied.

"Milady, you bring honor to your family and to this proceeding," Jorgarn told Lady Seni when he presented her at her chair. "And you bring honor to me by allowing me to accompany you to your seat. Be well and know I will aid you and your family in any way I can."

"Thank you, Sir Jorgarn," Lady Seni responded. Jorgarn noticed that the entire group of nobility had arisen when he entered. They would stay standing until he took his place with Bralan. It was another asinine custom, Jorgarn thought.

"Please, Lady, take your seat," he whispered. "I wish to say hello to a few people I have missed dearly. There is no reason for you and Gerrit to try to stand on sea legs longer than you must."

Lady Seni took her seat and motioned for her son to do the same.

Gorin's mother, Lady Destrad, stood to the left of the Senis. Her fat, feckless son stood behind her. Jorgarn decided it would be rude to ignore them so he offered a hand to Gorin's older brother, who seemed surprised but shook it anyway.

"Well met, Master DeStrad," Jorgarn offered. It was the best he could think of, given the fact he thought the man to be a louse.

"Well met, Lady DeStrad," Jorgarn said as he clasped the woman's hand in front of him. He did not kiss her hand, nor did she curtsey. She was too old to curtsey anyway, Jorgarn thought, and a smile hit his lips. "Are you keeping Gorin out of trouble this year?"

"You are still a scamp, Sir Jorgarn," Lady DeStrad replied. Like Eslada she was sharp of wit and sharper of tongue. She had called Jorgarn a "scamp" when she had first met him almost a decade before. "But you are well met, too."

She smiled at him.

"I don't suppose I can convince you to take the one behind me on your next adventure, can I?" she whispered softly. "I am getting too damned old to come to these things but I refuse to die until he does."

Jorgarn stifled a laugh when he saw the woman was serious.

"Well, you don't look a day over 80," Jorgarn said lightly. He knew the reaction it would bring. It had been a running joke of theirs for years.

"I'm only 74," she insisted.

"I know," Jorgarn replied with a smile and he leaned forward and kissed her softly on the cheek. "And I would wager you'll see another 25 years."

"Out of pure spite, if nothing else," she said with a soft laugh. "I am glad you are safe. You mean a great deal to that son of mine."

"As do you and he to me," Jorgarn replied truthfully. "Now, please sit. I want to speak to some of the others and I don't want you complaining later about being forced to stand while I do it."

The old woman offered another smile.

"I'll simply complain that I had to sit for so long," she replied. But she took her seat and motioned her son down, too.

Jorgarn only wanted to visit with Leyota and Eslada but he immediately noticed the expectant look on the man next to Lady DeStrad. It was Eslada's brother, Lord Commerly. Jorgarn extended his hand. Lord Commerly was only in his middle 30s but his mother had given up the seat upon his 15th birthday and she had never regretted it. Lord Commerly had married later than most and his heir was only five years old and did not sit behind him.

Of all Eslada's close relatives, Cobric Commerly reminded him of her the most. He liked the man – who was funny and friendly to everyone – and didn't hesitate to speak to him before moving forward. And so it went down the line. Jorgarn took a moment to visit with each member of nobility and to shake or kiss the hand of the heir to the holding. He spent a little more time speaking to Melodart's sister and her heir, a niece, and to Lady Darnot, the holder of the land from whence Pernice hailed and where the battle was recently fought.

Each person sat after he had spoken to them.

He paused in front of Lorida, the Duchess Somalt. She didn't hesitate but for a moment before hugging Jorgarn and kissing his cheek.

Finally he reached Eslada. Without regard to propriety, he hugged her and kissed her cheek.

"It is good to see you," he said as he kept his hands on her shoulders.

She caressed his bearded cheek lightly.

"And you," she replied. "I know you are talented and fierce, but I worry all the same. At least you visited me after only a few months this time instead of waiting a few years."

Jorgarn smiled.

"Well, I have a suspicion that you'll be glad to be rid of me since you will reside in the castle again for a while," he said.

"Probably," Eslada replied with a grin. "I am the first to admit that you are best in small doses."

Jorgarn's father, Lord Elmwood, was next in seniority and stood next to Eslada. Elmwood had been the next holding created after Longview. Jorgarn saw his father gulp as he stepped in front of the man.

"Father, I am glad you are well," Jorgarn said.

"And you, son," Wenta replied. "As Eslada said, I know how capable you are but I still worry."

Jorgarn saw something in Wenta's eyes and he hugged his father closely. Wenta's arms went tightly around Jorgarn's back.

"Thank you for all your help, not just now but last time," he said. "I can say without hesitation that the men you sent made the difference. I appreciate that you trusted your people to my care. I wish I could have sent more of them back to you."

"The ones you did send home never hesitated to return to you," Wenta said. "They sing your praises and laud your leadership. I wish I had done the same earlier. I wish I had gotten to know you before you left."

"There is time now," Jorgarn told the man as he released the hug. "I'm certain Yatil is almost ready to take over. He was ever the clever boy and I know you to be a capable teacher. I look forward to seeing you often. Has Montay arrived to join the Guard?"

Wenta wiped a small tear from his cheek and nodded.

"My wife tells me he is better than I was," Jorgarn said with a raised eyebrow. "Is that true?"

"No," Wenta said conspiratorially. "But I wanted to make sure he understood how proud I am of him. I made that mistake once and I'll not do it again. Perhaps I praised him too highly. But he never took it to his head. You'll like him and he will do fine here."

"I'm sure he will," Jorgarn said. "Where is Yatil?"

"He is still pretending to be the Supernumerary son until you land Eslada's child," Wenta said in a low voice but with a smile. "You really need to get working on that."

"Yes, Father," Jorgarn replied. "I do. Please, sit while I visit with the rest of the group."

Next was Lady Gomec, who had joined with Lord Stimok to send the Dometian Cavalry. Jorgarn spoke to each of them in turn and then the several cousins and others from Longview who had assumed land holdings. He saw Saneth Fieth standing beside Astid Weltin and he greeted them warmly. He was surprised when Astid told him that Torbert had stepped down as Lord Weltin to allow her to ascend. They both inquired of Pernice, naturally, and Jorgarn told them he was resting so he could enjoy accompanying them to the parties that followed each evening.

Finally he stood in front of Leyota, who carried Marnit on her hip.

"I love you," Jorgarn said simply as he leaned forward and kissed her softly on the cheek. "And you, too, little one."

He kissed Marnit on her tiny forehead.

"We love you," Leyota replied. Marnit seemed to recognize the tall man with the beard. Her fingers found her way into it and she tugged. Jorgarn took her from Leyota's arm and lifted her in the air. Her giggles resounded through the room.

"I'll see you as soon as this is over," he told Leyota.

She smirked slightly.

"You don't seem surprised to see me here," she said. "I had great plans to lord over you for days."

"Sorry, but you didn't let a lack of title stop you before," Jorgarn joked as he grudgingly handed his daughter back. "Merg sends his love. He plans to visit in the coming months."

Leyota smiled back and cuddled their daughter.

"Get moving, you're dragging this out and I want to get you alone," she whispered. Jorgarn kissed her again and moved to a young girl who stood beside her.

"Lady Ducotte," he said. "I am glad you're well. I worried about your health."

"Thank you, Sir Jorgarn," Dulceta Ducotte replied. "I wish to thank you for your concern and to thank the kind man who saw to my rescue. Did he return with you?"

"He did," Jorgarn said. He wasn't certain who rescued the young woman but he suspected it was Fieth. He was always doing things like that. "I will make certain you get the chance to meet with him."

Jorgarn had thought Dulceta Ducotte would be last in line so he was surprised when two more were standing while she sat. He glanced to his right and saw Chicote smirking at him.

"I want my face time, too," Lord Renoit chuckled.

"Creator save me!" Jorgarn said. "I just spent several months in your company. Will I never be shed of you?"

"Not likely," Renoit replied. "You are married to my sister."

Leyota heard the remark and laughed.

"I would offer to kiss your hand but well, I don't know where it has been," Jorgarn replied as he clasped Chicote to him. "Congratulations, my friend. I know this is not something you've ever wanted but I think you will do well in your new role."

Chicote pulled back with a serious expression on his face.

"If I hadn't met you those years ago, I doubt I would," he said. "I've learned much from you, dear friend. And I believe you're right. With help from many others, I will do fine. Thank you for the confidence you've shown in me – not just in my new role but in earlier ones. And I'm not leaving the Guard. So you're not shed of me yet."

"I'm glad you're staying," Jorgarn said. "And I'm glad I could offer you some small help for all the times you've helped me."

Denae was standing beside Chicote, looking at the floor when Jorgarn stepped to her. He saw Rayna and Leyod standing behind her.

"Duchess Tremaine," he said. "I'm glad you've returned safely. It is good to see you again."

"Thank you, Jorgarn," Denae said almost in a whisper. "There are not many who feel that way."

He wiped a tear from her cheek and kissed her softly where the tear had lain.

"It is their loss," he replied. "Don't let it affect your happiness."

Denae offered a tentative smile and Jorgarn walked back to see Leyod and his governess. He swept his finger down the boy's nose – as he had done a hundred times before – and it elicited the tinkling laughter it always did. Leyod extended his arms to Jorgarn and Jorgarn lifted him into the air has he had his daughter. He brought the boy down to eye level and kissed his forehead before handing him back to Rayna and leaning down to speak in her ear.

"I made sure every one of them is dead, Rayna," he said softly. "Then I pushed their bodies off the cliff and into the sea. You need never fear from them again. I promise you that."

"Thank you, Jorgarn," Rayna said. She lifted on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek softly near his eye. "I never doubted that you would avenge me."

She patted his cheek softly and Chicote turned around.

"Stop prattling like an old woman and get up there," he said with a laugh. "You are creating havoc with this finely timed event."

Jorgarn shook his head at his friend and made his way past the nobles again and to the raised stage where Torbert stood and Landor and Bralan sat. He offered a deep bow to the King.

"Your Majesty," Jorgarn said.

Landor embraced Jorgarn warmly – just as he had in better days.

"Thank you," Landor said when he pulled back with a tear in his eye. Jorgarn wasn't sure why he was being thanked but he muttered his welcome before turning to Bralan and offering another deep bow.

Like Landor, Bralan hugged him.

"I love you," he whispered in her ear.

"And I love you," she replied. "Maybe more this moment than ever before. That was beautiful."

Jorgarn was still confused when he took his spot beside Torbert, who put his arm around Jorgarn's shoulder and pulled him near.

"You don't see it, do you?" he whispered while Landor began his speech.

"See what?" Jorgarn asked.

"Look at the nobles," Torbert said. "You, in the time it took you to walk from one end of the hall to the other, have assured their loyalty for the next 30 years. That small gesture of shaking their hands and talking to them – even the ones you don't particularly like – will be remembered and talked about for years."

"I only wanted to say hello to Eslada and Leyota," Jorgarn pointed out. "The rest of them wouldn't get out of my way."

Torbert smiled broadly and clasped Jorgarn closer.

"You gave Denae her life back, you know that don't you?" he asked.

"What?" Jorgarn wondered.

"You recognized her and treated her kindly," he said. "The others have avoided her. Most wouldn't speak to her or be seen with her. In that brief instant, you let her become a person again. Then you went back and greeted Leyod the same way as you did your own daughter. He became legitimate today. He, too, is no longer something to be despised and disdained. He and Denae are people because your actions deemed them people."

"I just did what I always do," Jorgarn protested.

"That's the beauty of it, my lad," Torbert said. "That is the sheer beauty of it."

-------

Jorgarn pondered his actions during the – thankfully – brief speeches that opened Court. He had not purposefully set out to make the nobles feel important. Most of them needed no prompting on that score.

Bralan took Jorgarn's hand once the King dismissed the session and led him to where Leyota and Marnit stood with Eslada. Jorgarn was not surprised to see Gerrit Seni standing nearby, waiting for a moment when Eslada was alone to speak to her.

Jorgarn gave each of the waiting women a kiss on the cheek – excluding Marnit who bristled at the beard on her face and preferred the forehead or top of the head for her kisses.

"Master Seni, may I introduce you to some people who are very important to me," Jorgarn said to Gerrit, who had shied away when Bralan swept into view.

"Of course you know Lady Longview," he said. "This is Lady..."

"Well, I know she is a Lady and I know she is my wife but I'm not sure what to call her at this point," he confessed. "There is already an Elmwood. So that's out. What is your name?"

Leyota smiled sweetly. Jorgarn could hear birds singing their praises of her beauty.

"Leyota, dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "Have you forgotten that? You have not been gone for very long. Perhaps you took a buffet on the head."

"I believe one of us will have a buffet on the head soon, love," Jorgarn replied. Leyota laughed at his idle threat. She knew he was joking.

"Master Seni, I am Leyota Elmwood," she said turning to the man. "This is our daughter, Marnit. I am Jorgarn's first wife. We expect a second soon. I am the Lady Darikyar."

"Darikyar?" Gerrit said in confusion.

"It is Umbrian for 'beautiful smile'," Jorgarn said. "I think you'll agree it an apt title."

"I, uh, well, yes," Gerrit stammered. "There are three beautiful smiles I see, actually."

"I am Bralan," the Heiress said as she extended her hand. Jorgarn noticed it was not palm down as if she wished him to kiss it. The palm was toward the side for a handshake. She was meeting him as a friend and not as a subject. "I am the Lady Gentlewind. It was formerly the Borsik territory. It is my pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is mine, Your Highness," Gerrit sputtered.

"Please, you obviously are a friend of Jorgarn's so call me Bralan," she said. Jorgarn was thankful Eslada stepped forward.

"Don't be put off by this lot, Gerrit," she said. "I raised them well. They know I'll turn them over my knee if they misbehave or get too full of themselves."

Eslada was between Leyota and Bralan in height, which meant she was a head shorter than Jorgarn and only rose to Bralan's chin. Still, it was Leyota who snickered at the thought.

"Well, maybe not over my knee," Eslada said with a laugh. "I miss the days I could threaten that."

"There is always the leg sweep," Jorgarn offered with a laugh. "That seems to even the odds a bit. It would work on all of them but me. I always watch out for it. Dearest stepmother, I am going to take these three fine ladies with me and allow you time to yourself. I am certain they have bent your ear incessantly for the past few months. Gerrit, I will see you soon, I hope."

Jorgarn put his arms around Bralan and Leyota and ushered them out.

"I was going to see if she could watch Marnit for a while," Leyota protested.

Jorgarn hazarded a glance behind him at Gerrit and Eslada.

"I believe she is about to be courted," Jorgarn responded in a conspiratorial whisper. "Is that allowed? To be courted at Court?"

Both Bralan and Leyota almost broke their necks turning around to see what was transpiring but Jorgarn guided them forward, past the well-wishers who sought to catch the Heiress' eye for a moment.

"That is so sweet!" Leyota said.

"We were never courted," Bralan said with a smirk. "In fact, I believe each of us had to court him. If that isn't a crock of cläda."

-------

Jorgarn retired to their chambers, anxious for a few minutes alone with his family – and few hours' sleep. The women in his life had other ideas.

Marnit was awake, alert and anxious to play with the man she remembered little but remembered fondly. She and Jorgarn played on the floor, laughing and giggling, until she was too tired to continue.

Bralan and Leyota had watched with fascination as the pair played. They were awed when Jorgarn seemed to understand that little Marnit was growing tired and settled her on his lap for a few minutes of telling her a story. They were equally surprised when the little girl, who hated to sleep and often fought it as hard as she could, nestled her head on her father's shoulder and welcomed slumber gracefully.

Jorgarn arose from the floor but instead of putting Marnit in her bed, continued past it to the other, larger structure in the room. He lay down gently, rousing Marnit only slightly, and put her back to sleep in the time-honored way of fathers everywhere – he gently patted her bottom in time with his heartbeat until she drifted off again on her father's chest.

Leyota hated to break the spell but she felt Jorgarn should be cautioned before he joined the little one in sleep.

"She will wet on you," she whispered. "I didn't want you to be surprised or startled when she does."

Jorgarn barely opened his eyes but he grunted and softly laid the sleeping bundle on the bed before he stood. He walked to his chamber and returned with one of his flannel undershirts. Leyota and Bralan didn't interrupt but instead watched spellbound and Jorgarn thought for a moment then closed his eyes and cut a pattern out of the material.

"That is your favorite undershirt," Leyota said.

"It's the softest and it needs to be soft for what I have planned," he returned with a smile. Jorgarn measured out a smaller, rectangular piece and cut it off, too.

Marnit barely roused when Jorgarn folded the second piece of cloth and placed it inside the first, then wrapped the first around the girl's midsection. He popped two straight pins out of his tunic, inserted them in the sides of the material and then bent the pointed end backward to blunt the edge.

"That's like our egg cloth!" Bralan exclaimed.

"Pretty much," Jorgarn answered as he returned Marnit to her original spot. "I think I'll put buttons on the sides to make it easier. The one I saw has a drawstring and I don't think it fits as well as it could. Let's see if it works before we get too excited."

He calmly returned to patting Marnit's bottom and fell asleep himself.

"I'll be skewered," was all Bralan could offer.

"Not this afternoon you won't," Leyota retorted with a laugh. "And it would appear that I won't be either."

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



-------

Chapter 53


Jorgarn awoke to find himself surrounded by females he loved. Leyota slept on his left side, Bralan on his right and Marnit right on top. He was not certain he would ever be more comfortable in his life. But someone was knocking rather insistently upon his chamber door so he made his way out of bed – still carrying the slumbering Marnit – and opened the door to find Edelweck standing there.

Jorgarn was shirtless, holding a baby and had his finger over his lips to indicate silence was preferred. Edelweck's mouth dropped and then he smiled.

"This is probably one of the things I might see that I shouldn't mention," he whispered. "Isn't it?"

The boy's smile indicated to Jorgarn it was meant in jest so he returned the smile.

"King Landor and Queen Lorida request the presence of your family for dinner tonight," he whispered again. "They wanted me to be certain to mention that only if it is no trouble."

Jorgarn wiped sleep from his eyes and his motion alerted Marnit that it was perhaps time to be awake, too. She started to cry until she felt the beard on top of her head. The she simply pulled back and looked up at Jorgarn. He had seen the look on Leyota's face a time or two. It said, "What is the big idea? I was sleeping until you had to move."

Edelweck, thinking he might help, reached out and touched Marnit's arm and made a funny noise. At least Jorgarn found it funny. Marnit just turned her gaze from Jorgarn to the boy and back to her father again.

"Let me return her to her mother," Jorgarn said softly. "Then we will discuss dinner arrangements. Please, come in and sit, Master Edelweck. I will be but a moment."

The politeness shown in the chambers of the Heiress and her Knight never failed to surprise Edelweck. He had delivered messages all over the castle and this was, by far, his favorite, although Pernice Wort's chambers were friendly and hospitable, too. Most of the others who called the castle their permanent home were standoffish and rude. They would have thought nothing of leaving him standing in the hallway, sometimes until he feared he had been forgotten. He was certain they had never bothered to ask his name or if they had, they found it inconsequential because they referred to him almost uniformly as "Boy."

Jorgarn disappeared before Edelweck had seated himself at the table and reappeared moments later, minus the baby but with a sleepy looking Heiress in tow. Bralan also smiled warmly at the boy. Edelweck watched with fascination as Jorgarn poured three cups of mead and placed one in front each of the table's occupants.

"Thank you," Edelweck said.

Jorgarn waved his hand but told him he was welcome.

"Would you mind repeating your message?" Jorgarn wondered. "I was barely awake and I'm not certain I got it all. I wouldn't want anyone to slay the messenger."

Jorgarn chuckled at his attempted humor but Bralan shot him a look. Edelweck had heard the expression before even if he didn't understand it. So he told Bralan what the King had said.

"Has he sent you to others?" she asked.

"No, Your High... , Bralan," he corrected after she raised an eyebrow in his direction. "Although I believe Sir Torbert will be there, along with his wife and daughter. Which means Lady Fieth and Baron Wort will probably be there."

"I was more interested in someone else," Bralan prodded. "Someone from a higher floor."

Edelweck connected the dots in his head.

"The Princess?" he asked. "I don't think so. She wasn't mentioned in the discussion of dinner. But I did hear what Sir Jorgarn did this morning. That was talked about earlier."

"By whom?" Jorgarn posed.

"By everyone," Edelweck said. "The King and Queen, passing nobles, Sir Torbert, the kitchen staff, the maids ... everyone."

"Oh," Jorgarn replied.

"And what is the general reception of Jorgarn's unusual move, Edelweck?" Bralan prompted.

The boy thought for a moment.

"Mixed, I would say," he replied. "The King was overjoyed and I think Sir Torbert was happy. The Queen seemed to be relatively happy. The nobles I've overheard weren't positive or negative. They were just discussing it generally. Of course they were pleased he made an effort to speak to them, but I believe most of them didn't even realize he spoke to everyone. The household staff was not quite so pleased. I am led to understand the Princess was somewhat of a ... well, not a pleasant person to be around sometimes."

Bralan laughed.

"Well, I'm certain they are unhappy with me from time to time, too," she offered. "Particularly with Marnit's soiled clothing being laundered here now."

"If they are they haven't mentioned it in front of me," Edelweck said quickly. In a quiet voice, he added, "Of course they know I like you so they might not."

Bralan smiled widely again.

"Thank you," she said sincerely. "I must confess that I like you, too. You are the most polite young man and you are ever so friendly. It is nice to have someone at this place treat me like I'm a normal person."

Edelweck blushed but Jorgarn wasn't certain if it was from the praise bestowed on him from Bralan or the fact that Leyota entered, still buttoning her gown after feeding Marnit, that caused it.

"Did you get the impression that King Landor expected all three of us or only two of us?" Bralan asked.

Again, Edelweck paused before answering, as if repeating the message in his head.

"He said 'Your family'," he settled on, not willing to cast his vote with either side. "Oh, and I was sent to Sir Jorgarn. But it was the Queen who sent me. Does that help?"

Jorgarn burst out laughing, startling everyone in the room.

"I was thinking I should turn up with Eslada and my father," Jorgarn said though his chuckles. "Tote along Yatil and Treene and Montay. Of course, Chicote is my brother-in-law and Drosset is almost a brother. I should wander in with 15 or 20 people with me and simply plead ignorance to what everyone wants."

"What do you think everyone wants?" Leyota wondered.

"To see if you both claim me as family," Jorgarn said. "To see if Astid invites both Pernice and Saneth. I have been back in the capital for only a few hours and the intrigue starts again. I'm surprised at Lorida, though. I always figured she would just come right out and ask."

"She has and we've told her," Bralan replied. "I think this is less about setting you up than it is about making a firm statement. I am positive that even King Landor knows of what we plan. I say we just go and let everyone be damned."

Edelweck appeared uncomfortable and Jorgarn apologized for speaking in front of him.

"It's not that," the boy protested. "Everyone talks in front of me. It's just, well ... I don't think the Queen meant any harm to you. I know she likes all three of you. She is like Lady Longview. I don't think she is the type to try to do something behind the scenes. If she wanted to harm you, she would have done it in front of everyone. Does that make sense?"

All three members of the household found themselves nodding.

"It makes perfect sense, Edelweck," Bralan replied. "Thank you for bringing us to our senses. The Court business is usually so filled with back-stabbing and gossip that it is sometimes hard to picture people speaking frankly and honestly. But it would have been funny to see Jorgarn ushering in a dozen or more people to dinner. 'This is Elobert Fieth. He is like a brother to me'."

The occupants, even Edelweck, laughed.

"May I be dismissed?" Edelweck asked. "I was supposed to hurry back with your answer."

"Well, you can blame us," Jorgarn said, "because we haven't given you an answer until now. Please thank the Queen for her generosity and let her know she can expect three for dinner. We'll let her ponder if it will be Bralan, Leyota and me or Bralan, Leyota and Marnit or some other combination. Although she invited my family, I do not recall being invited myself."

"She has seen you eat, Jorgarn," Leyota chimed in. "No one really needs to witness that more than once."

-------

Jorgarn was preparing to bathe for his dinner engagement when Bralan and Leyota stepped into his chamber again.

He wore only his small clothes and was embarrassed to be caught that way by Bralan.

"Go ahead and bathe," she said. "We need to talk to you and it will accomplish two things at once."

Jorgarn turned his back, shucked his britches and climbed in the tub.

"You need to look more presentable tomorrow for Court," Leyota began.

"I had just stepped off a blamed ship," Jorgarn protested. "I could have taken an hour or two to return to the castle and change my clothes."

"That is not what she meant," Bralan said quickly. "We would like for you to cut your hair and shave your beard."

"Why?" Jorgarn asked.

"So you look less like an animal," Leyota answered.

"Jorgarn, you have to uphold a certain dignity," Bralan tried.

"I have to... ," Jorgarn intoned.

Bralan bristled slightly.

"Yes, Jorgarn," she said. "I suppose I should say that I expect you to look more distinguished than someone who was lost on an island for seven years."

Jorgarn nodded tightly.

"Do you know why we wear our hair this way?" he asked.

Both women lowered their heads.

"Yes," they replied in unison, somewhat chagrined.

"It's not what you think," Jorgarn said. "Yes, Usala and Alite used to make sure we kept clean and close shaved. But the reason that most of us still look this way is because we can't cut it ourselves. I know that is my reason. I'm positive that is why Chicote and El wear theirs this way. I would guess Pernice is the same way."

"Oh," Leyota responded. "So you're saying you would have cut it last year if I would have told you I was willing to do it for you?"

"Yes," Jorgarn replied. "Well, maybe not you. I'm not sure if it is a good idea to let my wife have a sharp object that close to my neck. But Bralan, certainly. At least for a while longer."

Leyota slapped his arm, eliciting a splash that sent water across the floor.

"Do we have time to do it now?" Jorgarn asked. "Otherwise, we probably want to do it tonight. There will be several cuts and abrasions on my face. The beard hides a nasty scar, too. But honestly, the hair could go without much fuss. Do you want to do it now?"

Leyota and Bralan looked at the other.

"I don't know how to cut it," Bralan said. Leyota agreed.

"Well, I don't know either," Jorgarn said. "And obviously none of the rest of us do or else only one of us would look this way. Are Pernice, Elobert and Chicote getting the same treatment, you know, given what is happening tomorrow?"

Again the woman exchanged glances.

"You know what is happening tomorrow?" Bralan asked.

"Torbert told me," Jorgarn shrugged. "I agreed with his reasoning and I've been preparing them for it. But El and Pernice will still be surprised."

Leyota narrowed her eyes.

"What, exactly do you think is going to happen?" she asked.

"Uh, Fieth is going to be named Lord of whatever that place is southeast of Freeland," Jorgarn answered. "And Pernice is going to be Lord of the area due east. Right? That is still the plan?"

"Yes, that is still the plan," Leyota said with a wink at Bralan. "I am going to see Eslada. Maybe she can help us cut this mess."

"You're just mad because I have nicer hair than you do," Jorgarn said to Leyota's departing back. "And you have a nicer beard than I do."

She spun around in the doorway.

"You just remember who probably will end up with a knife to your throat in a few minutes," she said.

"I love you, dear," Jorgarn answered with a laugh.

Bralan sat shaking her head and smiling.

"And I love you, too, dear," he said when he glanced at her. "I'm sorry I've been so standoffish about things. I hope you know it reflects more of my fear of causing you harm than it does my feelings toward you. My time away from you taught me that."

"And I was worried that you would leave me when Leyota returned," Bralan admitted. "I think I understand that won't be the case. I don't believe I shall ever be able to be rid of either of you."

"Not that you would want to," Jorgarn offered with a grin.

"No, not that I would want to," Bralan said. "I was surprised when you said that to me today. Pleasantly surprised, though. When you walked down the line, I was watching those who sat down. Each of them looked so impressed. Lady Seni and Lady DeStrad started to talk to the other. Lord Commerly joined in. I could tell they were discussing you – and me. They were talking about how friendly you are. They were talking about how bright the future of Emertland is. Even Lady Halette was happy. I couldn't hear what you were saying to them but I could see that you made it personal for each of them.

"The rest of us try to do that when we meet with them individually," she added. "I am still uncomfortable talking to most of them, so I have avoided it for the past couple of weeks. But you just waded through and greeted them in front of the peerage. I admit I was mortified when you started. But the effect was monumental. They all sat smiling and felt like they were a true part of Emertland as a whole, maybe for the first time in their lives."

Jorgarn blushed.

"I only wanted... ," he started.

"To say hello to Leyota and Eslada," she finished with a laugh. "I knew that, too. If you would have ignored some of them and raced to see Leyota, it could have been disastrous."

"Perhaps if Cobric hadn't been third in line, I might have," Jorgarn admitted. "But once I stopped to visit with him, I couldn't very well just tell the others to piss off. I mean, there are some I wanted to, but I tried to be polite."

"And then you came to your father," Bralan said. "That was very touching. He has been here a lot during the past few weeks. I hate to say this because I know you'll be angry, but he is a nice man."

Jorgarn nodded.

"I gave him the benefit of the doubt today," he confessed. "I have seen him be extremely charming and warm – to other people, never to me. But he appears to be trying so I will do the same."

Bralan leaned forward and kissed Jorgarn's lips.

"You are a good man, too," she said. "Don't ever let anyone convince you otherwise."

-------

Jorgarn was not surprised to see Pernice sitting at the table between Saneth and Astid when he arrived. He also was not surprised that Pernice's hair was short and his beard gone. In its place was a raw patch of skin roughly equivalent to what his beard had looked like. Jorgarn sympathized because he knew his face looked the same.

Pernice only shook his head when he saw Jorgarn standing between Bralan and Leyota.

"Got to you too, huh?" he asked. Jorgarn only nodded slightly. Leyota had managed to reopen the raised scar on his cheek and it bled fiercely for several minutes.

"We survive two wars and get scalped when we get home," Jorgarn said. He turned his face so Pernice could see the wound on his cheek.

"Creation!" Pernice said softly. "Did they let Marnit shave you or did they use a dull long sword?"

Leyota had been mortified when she cut Jorgarn and had refused to continue because her hands were shaking. Eslada wound up finishing the deed, with only slightly less blood that Leyota had caused.

Jorgarn saw Leyota's look upon Pernice's question and put his arm around her.

"First time jitters," he said with a laugh. "I can't really complain because I would have done much worse. You probably would have slit your own throat."

"Why didn't you have the laundress do it?" Torbert asked from beside King Landor. "She did a good job the first time."

"Is she even still alive?" Jorgarn wondered. "I mean, she was a hundred then and that was eight years ago."

"She is still alive and she does a fine job with beards," Torbert answered with a snicker. "Young Montay lost his to her blade yesterday. She is taking care of Fieth and Renoit tonight. That should be all of you, right? None of the rest of the old group came back."

Leyota stiffened.

"You mean there was someone else who could have done this?" she asked hotly as she turned to Jorgarn. "You caused me to hurt you for no reason?"

"No," Jorgarn said quickly. "Once, when I first arrived, an old woman cut my hair for me. I didn't know her name or even if she was still here. This was your idea. I assumed you had investigated the possible choices. I mean, Eslada didn't mention her."

Jorgarn turned to see Saneth and Astid giving Pernice the same look.

"My mother cut my hair before I came here!" he said defensively. "I have never had anyone but my mother or Alite do it. I didn't know."

Landor and Lorida were laughing gaily – as was Batrix.

"I think when dinner concludes, we should go to the barracks to see if she can even things out a bit," Jorgarn offered. "What say you, Pernice?"

Pernice looked toward Astid and Saneth before answering. Jorgarn realized belatedly – when Leyota slapped his arm – that he should have broached the subject in private.

"I think you both should go to Court looking lopsided and scraped to make up for the pain you caused us," Leyota said.

"Pain we caused you?" Pernice asked. "My face feels as though I have dragged behind a horse for an afternoon. I am going to have to sleep sitting up tonight because they gouged the back of my head, too."

Four sets of female eyes bore into Pernice but he didn't back down.

"This was, after all, your idea," Jorgarn pointed out. "Pernice and I would have been content to take a few days to see who could do this but you insisted it must be done by tomorrow."

"It could have been worse," Torbert joked, trying to lighten the mood. "A few years back this young man came to the Guard from ... I think it was Brestid at the time. He looked like a wolf. He had thick bushy hair and a full beard. He had more hair on his chest than a bear and he claimed to be only 15. He tried to cut his own hair and wound up in the infirmary for a week. He almost bled to death on the floor before someone found him. He went home as soon as he was released. I'm certain he told all of his friends that someone in the Guard had given him the long slice across his neck."

"Well, it is done, nonetheless," Lorida pointed out. "And any wounds will heal. I will provide some salve to soothe the skin. It will be less painful during the night than you suspect. But you should try to get your hair evened out. Tomorrow is a big day."

"Today was a big day!" Landor said happily. "Torbert, I must say, you timed your arrival perfectly. Everyone had already been alerted to be in the hall early so you missed the crowds at the dock. And Jorgarn ... what can I say but 'thank you' for what you've done."

"You're welcome, Your Majesty," Jorgarn said. "It just seemed like the right thing to do."

"It was exactly the right thing to do," Batrix put forth. "But few would have dared to do it. Did you consider the risks?"

"Uh, no," Jorgarn said in confusion. "What risks?"

Batrix smiled and nodded to her husband.

"Well, the nobility could have perceived that you believed you were beneath them and you were trying to secure their favor," Torbert answered. "They could have taken your actions to mean that you believe you require their acceptance or their agreement before you resume your role."

Jorgarn's face hardened.

"Well, any who mistook my words for that will soon be disabused," he stated firmly. "Besides, most of them I already knew in some form or fashion. The rest of them can get bent as far as I'm concerned."

Landor chuckled and the rest of the table joined in.

"I don't think anyone misunderstood," the King said. "They know you were thanking them for sending men to protect the land and greeting the few you had not already met. Those with an inflated sense of worth will know by tomorrow that they need to rethink their actions. Those who have refused to send soldiers to the guard will find their influence waning very quickly and I believe Bralan will not suffer the counsel of anyone who deems their territory more important than Emertland as a whole. That was my mistake. I allowed them to take that stance and I didn't correct them when I could. Yes, Jorgarn, tomorrow will be a great day."

He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts.

"My thanks are for your actions toward the other nobles but it is mostly for what you did for Denae and her son today," he continued. "Sadly, it is not in my power to grant Leyod legitimacy. But you did. No one will make snide remarks about his heritage – at least not where they can be overheard – for fear of inciting your wrath."

"He is a child," Jorgarn said angrily. "He had no more decision about his parents than I do or you did. In Longview, they preach a concept called 'primary sin'. It means that a child is born with the flaws of his parents. I do not accept that and I refuse to believe in it. If Leyod grows up to behave like his father or mother, then I will take issue. Once he is old enough to make decisions for himself, I will expect him to make the correct ones. Just I will expect Marnit to make the correct ones – just as I expected Denae and Cruit Symington to make the correct ones. You cannot convince me that Denae and her husband did not understand right from wrong. Nor did the Symingtons think they were proper in their actions. They simply accepted that wrong worked better for them at the time.

"I suppose we should get this out of the way. Once an edict is issued about plural marriage, I will ask Bralan for her hand. Does that mean that we shall behave inappropriately before we are married? Not if the decision is left to me. Did Leyota and I behave that way before we wed? No. We understand what is right and what is expected of us. We adhere to that standard – even when we don't want to. I can promise, Your Majesty, that if Leyod remains in the capital, he will understand right from wrong when he is old enough to decipher the two. I promise because I will teach him if no one else is willing. I offer this not only because it will ensure Bralan's safety but because it is right and just that I do -- just as it was proper that I greet Denae this afternoon and treat Leyod and Rayna as I have always tried to treat them."

"Jorgarn's actions toward Leyod have always set the standard for the boy's treatment," Pernice added. "All of us accept the boy even if we disagree with the actions that spawned him. You will recall, King Landor, that Jorgarn is the man who carried the boy from the dock to the castle. He is the man who never turned away from Leyod's affection. He always treated the boy as an individual and not as the product of an illicit union. The rest of us followed his lead."

The King nodded.

"What Pernice is trying to say, dear," Lorida said as she put her hand on Landor's arm, "and I am surprised at his tact because frankly, I didn't think he had it in him, is that it is time for you to follow Jorgarn's lead, as well. It is time for you to accept Leyod as your grandson regardless of the reasons behind his birth. You have allowed Denae to resume a place in your life. She is more to blame for what happened than Leyod is. As Jorgarn so aptly stated – Leyod had no choice in his background, nor could he choose his parentage."

"It is not easy for me," Landor admitted. "I see him and I think of what could have been. I see in him my failure as a father and as a monarch."

"I don't think you failed as a father," Leyota offered. "I think we can agree that you taught Denae the difference between right and wrong. I understand your idea of failing as King. No offense meant, Sire, but that much is evident. I lived in the castle during those days and I saw it happening. Jorgarn could have been, perhaps, less heavy handed in the marriage contract. But Jorgarn and Eslada do not appreciate subtlety. No, that is not correct. What I mean is that they are plain-spoken people. You need not worry about either of them lying to you because in all likelihood, they wouldn't waste their time on a lie when the truth would suffice.

"It was not only your advice that led Denae to this spot. She would have done it anyway because she wished it. She always believed that she could do as she wished when she wished and everyone would forgive her because she was your daughter. In the end, it was her immaturity that caused this. Denae, at 22, is not like the Denae at 15 or even 19. She understands better about what she did and what she caused now than she did then. She has been forced to grow up these past years. She has been forced to take a look at the pain she caused not only to you and Jorgarn but to Emertland itself. I spent time with her in Freeland after we rescued her. I saw a much different young woman there than I saw here, years ago. The time she spent with Wenta and Treene helped further. I think she is finally mature enough to be ashamed of what she did."

The King nodded gratefully, happy for any hope of having back the person he believed his daughter to be. Jorgarn was silent – as were the others at the table. He had come to realize that Leyota was rarely wrong in her assessments of people's character; yet he knew she was not infallible.

Only time would reveal if Denae was a new person or if she would revert back to her former ways once she was fully integrated into life at the capital.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.



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Chapter 54


The trios had skipped the evening's social festivities – even after Pernice and Jorgarn had visited the laundress to even out their hair. Leyota, Bralan, Astid and Saneth had put in a standing reservation for the two men to visit every 14 days so they could remain well groomed until one or more of the four women could get accustomed to working things.

Now, back inside their chambers, Leyota sat down on Jorgarn's lap and kissed him fiercely. She had seen little of her husband in the past 15 months and she had missed him.

"Do you really believe what you told King Landor?" Bralan asked once Leyota pulled back.

Leyota started to answer immediately but stopped herself.

"Believe? Probably not," she said with a sigh. "Denae truly regrets what transpired. Of that I am certain. But I do not know if she regrets what she did or what she lost. I do not know if she regrets her actions or that she was so obvious in them. Landor needs hope, right now. Jorgarn opened the door today. There will be nothing standing in Denae's way if she wishes to redeem herself. Well, nothing but herself. That might be enough. Can we talk of other things? Or actually, I had more in mind the doing of other things."

"If ever it becomes necessary for you to be gone for this long again, you had better plan for me to accompany you," Leyota said softly.

"And me," Bralan said. "I have come to realize that the atmosphere around the castle is dictated not by King Landor but by you. When you are around, I hear laughter in the corridors. I see people smiling in the courtyard. When you are gone, people are anxious, nervous. I did not enjoy your departure in the least."

"People are anxious and nervous because I have taken a large portion of their loved ones into harm's way with me," Jorgarn pointed out. "The people in the castle and in the capital have sons and daughters, husbands and wives in the Guard. Although the danger was slight this time, it was still dangerous. The people understood that. I'm sure the tension will lessen now that everyone has returned."

Leyota and Bralan exchanged glances and slight smiles.

"You need to learn to accept a compliment when it is given," Leyota said with a laugh. "You tend to push your accomplishments off onto others rather than take the credit you deserve. The castle is happy that their friends and family have returned but they returned because you led them. Soldiers have been trickling back into the capital for five months now. It wasn't until the people saw you striding from the ship that the tension eased – particularly for the three women who reside in these chambers."

Bralan leaned forward and offered Jorgarn a kiss, as well. She pulled back with a smile before kissing him again with more feeling.

"Do you mind sharing your husband with me tonight?" she asked Leyota. "Or would you prefer to be alone with him?"

"Our husband, dear heart," Leyota answered as she softly caressed Bralan's cheek. "Our husband – there is no more mine or yours. There is only ours. Rayna is watching Marnit tonight. Let us take our fellow to the bedchamber and demonstrate to him how much we have missed him these months."

If Jorgarn had any reservations about how highly they thought of him, they disappeared when two very nude young women, walked arm in arm into the room and snuggled up next to him.

Leyota turned his head for a deep kiss but he jumped when Bralan began stroking his member. His had just settled down from the initial surprise when the Heiress' head dipped below the covers and she gently drew his smallclothes down and took the head into her mouth.

"She has been looking forward to showing you how much she loves you for many months," Leyota whispered in Jorgarn's ear. "We have spent the past six months showing each other how much desire we share. Tonight it will be your turn."

"I won't... ," Jorgarn began but Leyota silenced him with her lips.

"No," she whispered when she pulled away. "Mouths will have to do for you until the wedding."

Jorgarn's eyes widened.

"Well, except for me, of course," Leyota clarified. "Now, if you grant me your leave, I believe I shall show our next Queen how you enjoy it. I am her Prime Attendant, after all."

Leyota didn't wait for a response before pushing the coverlet downward and joining Bralan at Jorgarn's midsection. The two women shared a passionate kiss when she arrived at her destination – which was almost as fascinating to Jorgarn as what Bralan was doing with her hands as she and Leyota exchanged tongues – but not quite.

The feeling of a second hand on his erection pushed the sight even further into second place but Jorgarn still found the view to be extremely erotic. It took Jorgarn a moment to realize that both women had their delicate rears pointed toward him and were wiggling them at him. He reached between each woman's legs and gently began rubbing their flowers.

Bralan and Leyota took turns licking and sucking Jorgarn's member. The other would stroke the stalk and fondle his sac. He, in turn, stroked their flowers and their buttons.

He was close to release when both women pulled away abruptly and shifted positions. Leyota straddled Jorgarn's erection and Bralan stood across his chest and parted her petals to allow Leyota's tongue access to her special spot.

Jorgarn watched with rapt attention as his wife's breasts swung back and forth while she rode him. Bralan's tight rear was right above him so he reached up to continue fondling her.

"Oh!" Leyota said, pulling away from Bralan's sweetness and off Jorgarn's pole. "Jorgarn, sit with your back against the headboard."

He complied and Leyota took her spot again. After she gave him a thorough kiss, she directed Bralan into place, then turned her around so she faced Jorgarn.

"This way, we both can do this," she said with a wide smile. "You take care of her from the front and I will take care of her from the back."

Sure enough, two tongues found their way between the Heiress' legs and she gasped in joy. It took her only a few moments to find her release and she slid downward between her lovers. She kissed and licked Jorgarn's face then turned around to repeat the trick with Leyota.

Her hands snaked down Leyota's body as they kissed, adding stimulation to the coupling. Soon, she and Jorgarn were each nursing on a breast tip as Leyota rode a constant crest of excitement.

Before long, her movements slowed as her lack of practice showed. She had mated with Jorgarn only a few times in the past 15 months and her body was out of shape for the exertions. Her time with Bralan always required less movement – though no less excitement.

"Rest, little love," Bralan advised. "I will practice my mouth skills. I'm sure Jorgarn won't mind."

"Uh, no," Jorgarn said. Bralan's mouth felt different from Leyota's. It didn't necessarily feel better. It just felt different. Leyota liked to suck on the head and use small, quick hand motions. Bralan let the head rest in her mouth and she used her tongue and long hand motions along the stalk of his erection.

Leyota laughed.

"I have heard only a fool would turn down an offer such as that," she laughed. "I have heard many men joke that this is the best part of coupling."

"Really?" Jorgarn wondered. He found the action to be too one-sided for his tastes.

"Oh, yes," Bralan advised. "They feel powerful when they have convinced some poor girl to swallow their seed. I heard my brothers relating the pleasures of having one of our housemaids 'attend to her duties'. I believe my father availed himself to her services, too. I can't see why they felt so manly. I feel very powerful with your tool in my mouth."

As if to demonstrate, she kissed the head and then proceeded to lick Leyota's spend off the sides. She turned back to her partners when she was certain it was clean.

"One false move from you and I make you a eunuch," Bralan said, snapping her teeth together playfully. Then she put his erection back into her mouth and spent the next several minutes pleasuring him.

"I am about ready to spurt," Jorgarn advised. Leyota often took his spend in her mouth but he didn't believe Bralan would be so willing.

He was wrong. The Heiress simply picked up her tempo and swallowed his eruption as it hit her mouth. Then she kissed Leyota firmly.

"I will share with you next time," she offered.

"I'd like that," Leyota answered. "I believe I would like that very much."

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The second day of Court was not as hectic as the first. Few of the general populace usually attended and many of the Lords and Ladies were a little under the weather because of the first-night festivities.

But this year was different. Landor had asked that the celebrations be held later in the week, owing to Bralan's installation as Heiress. The party schedulers had agreed without much protest.

Landor had another reason in mind. He wanted the hall packed when he made his announcement, which was bound to be met with a multitude of thoughts from the aristocracy and the commoner.

He got his wish as the second day was as well attended at the first. The King had always tried to keep his speeches short. It allowed those visiting to spend more time discussing items of interest to them – and it made them pay more attention to his words.

Today would be an exception, but he doubted anyone would doze off.

The King stepped to the lectern at the front of the dais as soon as everyone was seated. Silence descended quickly.

"Ladies and Lords, ladies and gentlemen," the King said gravely. "I stand before you a humbled man. In order for us to look toward a positive future, we must accept the mistakes of our past. I am here today to admit to some of mine."

A small gasp – probably from Leyota's mother, Jorgarn thought – escaped from the gallery.

"There is not time for me to admit all my follies," Landor continued, "so I will restrict myself to current ones. Left to our own devices, Emertland would today be ruled by Frayon Troch or his father. I do not believe anyone in this room would wish for that. I almost ensured it would be that way by clinging to stubborn pride despite the facts.

"Thankfully, some plainspoken words from people I like and trust ended that foolishness in the nick of time. This crisis was perpetuated from another error. I refused to take the necessary actions when my daughter's actions came to light and I handled her dismissal badly when I took any action at all. Denae, I hope you will someday forgive me, first, for allowing you to think you were behaving appropriately and, secondly, for my harsh words when I dismissed you and my attitude toward your son."

Jorgarn could see Denae sitting at the end of the row. She did not look pleased by having her actions brought forth in an official setting.

"I will not repeat either of those mistakes," Landor said. He seemed to expect Denae's reaction and it didn't slow him down. "I will now attempt to rectify another error in judgment. For the last five decades, the Northern Provinces had produced nothing but problems for the rest of Emertland. The men and women who governed those lands seem to believe they are above the nation and above the rest of us.

"They are wrong but I allowed them to maintain their arrogance without checking them. From the Wesrings to the Symingtons to the Trochs, it has been the same. Before we annexed Salaria, Vecad and Gobrik, it was a problem. Now I have a solution. I have, for years, surrounded myself with men who told me what I wanted to hear instead of what I needed to know.

"Because these men have given up much in their lives, I will retain them in an advisory capacity. However, their advice will not be the only I solicit and they will have no say whatsoever in many areas where they exerted influence previously. I have, by Royal Decree, appointed a separate council whose primary purpose is to evaluate those being considered for promotion to landed gentry. Those lands will not be handed out to political allies or family friends unless their promotion is warranted. Four of five votes from this council will be necessary for a man or woman to receive a landed title."

There were drawn looks on many faces in the aristocratic gallery. Many of them knew they would not have passed the test if it had been done in their time.

"Further, those of you in the second row will need to meet with this council before you are elevated," Landor said. Jorgarn saw Lady DeStrad smirk slightly but Landor continued. "You will not lose your family lands but your influence in the capital will be determined by what you can provide to the rest of Emertland. Those of you have not sent men to serve in our Guard will find your influence waning quickly – if you have not noticed it already. Those of you, such as dear Lady Seni, who has constantly provided men and now women for our protection, will be rewarded with a higher standing.

"Those of you who focus solely upon your own needs and not those of the population as a whole will find yourself isolated. Do not expect help from the capital when you provide nothing for the benefit of the rest of the land."

Several men and women shifted uncomfortably in their seats.

"The newest northern Lords and Ladies have been interviewed by the Council or approved by the Council without an interview," Landor continued. "Further, they have been approved by the Tribunal. Rather than rely upon political ties and debts owed to my advisers, I have chosen them solely because they have, without hesitation, put Emertland first."

"I have named the lands I will award today but I have borrowed from one of our newest provinces in allowing the new landholders to maintain their family name. Before I introduce our newest gentry, I wish to recognize some who were approved in the past few weeks. First, Leyota Elmwood, first wife of Jorgarn Elmwood, Knight Protector to the Heiress, is now Lady Darikyar, which translates to 'beautiful smile' in Umbrian and Vecadi. She will govern the land formerly called Osper in the former country of Vecad."

"Next is our Heiress, Bralan Longview. She is to be awarded the lands formerly known as Borsik, now called Gentlewind. It borders Darikyar to the north and Fairhaven to the east. These ladies were approved by unanimous votes by the Council and by Tribunal."

Jorgarn noticed frowns on the faces of Lord Halette and Lord Karik. Several other of the older lords and ladies did not look pleased at the announcement.

"We also have reinstated Denae Doloran as the Lady Tremaine for the duration of her life," Landor announced. "Astid Weltin has risen to Lady Weltin upon her father's retirement. Dulceta Ducotte has been elevated as the Lady Ducotte and Chicote Renoit has been elevated as Lord Renoit upon the deaths of those landholders. I believe that takes care of all our recent elevations. Now, I understand there is at least one more who wishes to step aside and allow her heir to rise. Is that so?"

Lady Seni arose.

"I do, Your Majesty," she said. "I will submit my son, Gerrit Seni, to your advisory board for confirmation. If he is deemed acceptable, I will step aside."

"All named heirs have been voted upon," Landor said with a smile. The Lady Seni had once again come through, setting precedent by allowing the board to survey her successor. "Gerrit Seni has the approval of every member of the board and of every member of the Tribunal. Only a few of the named heirs will be required to meet with the group, mostly because they are relatively unknown to most of us."

"Then I will retire, Your Majesty," Lady Seni said. She turned and exchanged places with her son.

Gerrit stepped forward and hugged his mother.

"I will do my utmost to continue the fine work my mother has started for the Seni lands and for Emertland itself," he said, kneeling before the King. "Your Majesty, I am yours to command."

"Thank you, Lord Seni," King Landor offered, touching his shoulder with his scepter as he would soon do with the others.

He looked at the peerage while Lord Seni took his spot and the others shifted positions.

"Now, to other matters," Landor said. "I summon Master Elobert Fieth, Lord Chicote Renoit, Baron Pernice Wort and Sir Jorgarn Elmwood to appear before me."

Jorgarn looked to Bralan but her face held nothing. If Landor expected this group to swear fealty unto him, he was in for a rude shock. Jorgarn could see that statement written clearly on the faces of the other three men as they made their way to stand in front of the King. Landor either ignored it or didn't see it.

"With the help of a new group of voices in the capital, I have determined that the best way to ensure tranquility in the northern holdings is to ensure they are governed by those who have a demonstrated a love of this kingdom and a history of putting it first in their deeds," Landor said. "To that end, I charge you four, along with Lady Darikyar and Lady Gentlewind with integrating those lands into Emertland and forging solid relationships with Freeland and the Empire of Swar, our neighbors to the north."

Fieth, standing beside Jorgarn, gave the Knight an incomprehensible look.

"Baron Pernice Wort, I name you Lord Draceque and I award you the lands formerly known as Troch. Your lands will be bordered by Lady Fieth to the south, Lady Darikyar to the north, Lady Longview to the west and Lord Weming to the east. Master Elobert Fieth, I name you Lord Wellspring and award you the lands formerly called Thane in the country of Salaria. Your lands will border Freeland to its south, Eslet and Vanos to their north and a yet to be named territory to the west."

Both Pernice and Elobert took a sharp intake of breath. They saw the sly smile on Jorgarn's face and they knew he was aware of this development.

"Lord Draceque, Lord Wellspring and Lord Renoit, please bow before me to accept my good tidings and my sincerest thanks for the work you have done on behalf of Emertland in the past and the good you will do for it in the future," Landor said. The three men knelt on one knee and Landor touched them gently with his scepter. Jorgarn supposed he was there to make sure they didn't run off.

"Sir Jorgarn Elmwood, Knight Protector to the Heiress, husband to Lady Darikyar, son of Lord Elmwood and stepson to Lady Longview," Landor intoned. "Friend of Emertland since you first arrived upon our shores and the man who has led our troops into battle without hesitation for the past seven years, I name you landed gentry. Your lands will border Wellspring to the east, Fairhaven to the south and the Empire of Swar on all other fronts. Sir Torbert informs me it is his right to give his blessing but I hope you will allow me to offer mine afterward."

Bralan winked at Jorgarn and smiled as Torbert stepped forward, sword in hand.

"With the sword worn by my predecessor and that you will one day wear, I name you Sir Lord Goodhope. May you, your family and friends provide the same guidance to your new lands as you have to Emertland itself. May the Creator bless you."

Torbert stepped back and Landor gave Jorgarn a questioning look. Jorgarn smiled his response and the King stepped forward.

"With the thanks of a grateful nation and its citizenry," Landor said, touching Jorgarn on the shoulder.

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Epilogue

Freeland grew and prospered more quickly than anyone suspected. The trading alliance between Swar, Emertland and Freeland led to more goods and services exchanging hands and produced a market economy in only 10 years – much to the delight of Deloy Snood, the miller.

Coins were smelted and the first exchange of wages for services rendered came a full decade sooner than most people expected. Snood, disheartened by the loss of his fortune in Emertland but unwilling to admit he made a mistake in coming to Freeland, immediately tried to make up for the 10 years he'd lost by charging exorbitant prices for turning wheat and corn into flour and meal.

His pleasure was short-lived, however. Merg, who by the age of 22 had become the foremost businessman in the small country, had made arrangements to transport raw materials to Emertland – to the mills in the areas governed by Elobert Fieth, Wellspring, and Jorgarn Elmwood, Goodhope. Merg's rationale wasn't to spite Snood. Indeed, people liked to do business with Merg simply because the man wasn't out to make a huge profit off every endeavor and treated people fairly and equitably.

Merg's wagons were making constant trips into Wellspring and Goodhope anyway to secure wood for the items that he still produced. The wagons were empty on the trip down and a barrel or two of flour or corn meal didn't take up much room on the way back. The millers of Emertland charged about a third of what Deloy Snood did. The master miller from the Emertland territory of Vanos sent his apprentice into western Freeland to establish a shop, providing additional competition.

In the years of Freeland's growth many changes occurred in the Emertland landscape. Marriages consolidated holdings. Pernice and Draceque merged with Saneth Fieth's holdings when Saneth and Astid finally convinced Lord Wort it was time to marry them. Astid submitted the Weltin lands back to the crown to replace those awarded Denae upon her return.

Jorgarn, Leyota and Bralan took their three territories and formed two, Gentlewind and Goodhope. Marnit became the Lady Goodhope upon her majority and surprised everyone by declining her brother's offer to remain as a member of his advisory staff. Marnit said she would always be available to provide counsel to her sibling, but joked it would be unseemly for an older sister to take orders from her younger brother. Jorgarn knew it was simply because Marnit preferred the rolling hills and quiet pace of life that the north offered over the hustle and humanity of the capital. He sympathized because he had found that the few weeks every year he spent in northern Emertland were among his happiest.

The years, however, were not free of strife. Denae returned to the castle and resumed the title of Lady Tremaine. Outwardly polite to all, she made several attempts to regain Jorgarn's favor and to induce him to propose her for a position on one of the advisory councils. Landor watched with worry for almost a year before taking action. He negotiated a marriage for Denae to the grandson of the Emperor of Swar, who was second in line to rule the Empire, and would do so after his father.

Denae left for Swar without a backward glance at Emertland, leaving Rayna as guardian to Leyod and returning Tremaine to the Crown. Jorgarn, Leyota and Bralan were happy to remain behind for the ceremony and Denae would pay a visit to Emertland only every few years for the remainder of her father's life. She never inquired about the welfare or well-being of her child, which was just as well.

The attacks upon Rayna had left her unable to bear children and Leyod filled a gap in the otherwise solitary life of the Baroness Clain. Bralan appointed her as the Royal Dressmaker and she served as an adviser to Jorgarn for many years.

Bralan's first act as Queen after Landor's death was to elevate Leyod Doloran to Lord Tremaine. It was a natural decision since he and Marnit had been betrothed for almost a year by that point.

Bralan's only child, a son named Pernice-Torbert, was named her Heir upon his majority. He was born almost five years after Marnit and in the same year as his half-brother, Elobert-Chicote. Pernice-Torbert – or P.T. – as his friends call him, would face much travail in his life, but none more difficult than the choice of his Knight.

His decision wasn't from lack of options. Aside from his brother, E.C., there were many others who would prove capable. Jorgarn and Landor Wort, Pernice's sons from Astid and Saneth, were the same age, as was Leyote Renoit, Chicote's son, born to his wife, the former Ronzet Seni. But Jorgarn has his money riding elsewhere – Traymera Fieth, the daughter of Lord Elobert Fieth and the Lady Ducotte, or Vellendora Belad, the daughter of Ronac and Vellendira Belad.

Each had said since she was old enough to talk that she planned to become the first Lady Knight in Emertland. Jorgarn had learned enough about strong-willed women – from Eslada to Leyota to Bralan to Marnit and now Traymera and Vellendora – to ever bet against the chance.

Edited by BlackIrish; Proofread by ZoltanTheDuck.


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The End
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Posted:  2012-04-19
Last Modified: 2013-02-07 / 01:49:41 pm
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