Kaewyn blinked away the sleep in his eyes and sat up from his warm sleeping furs. After rubbing his temples and his eyes, he looked around the inside of the tent and saw that Yohren was still asleep. Judging by the faint stream of light coming through the flap of the tent’s entrance, he guessed that the sun had only just begun to rise. With a tired yawn, he rose to his feet and stretched out his arms. Yohren stirred from his sleep and rolled over onto his opposite side. After a few grunts and groans, he wriggled again and rolled once more. Finally, he let out a yawn of his own.
“Did I wake you?” Kaewyn asked.
“No…” Yohren said weakly, before yawning tiredly a second time. “Is it really that time already?”
“Afraid so. Better to be up and ready early anyway. The messenger didn’t say when we would be meeting this Lady Eliya, only that it was in the morning.”
“Alright.” Yohren said as he rubbed his eyes. ”But you woke me up from a really odd dream.”
“I thought you looked particularly… active.” Kaewyn laughed. “Thinking of a certain special someone?”
“Uhm, no? No!” Yohren said, suddenly much more awake. “I was… ugh… Why does everything have to be done so early in the morning?”
“I don’t rightly know. My brother and the other military types have always risen early in the morning. It is just how they operate.” Kaewyn explained.
Yohren pulled himself out of his sleeping furs and stretched. “Kaewyn… this might be kind of odd but… maybe you can help me.”
“Go ahead.” Kaewyn said as he began to prepare himself. “But talk while you dress and put on your armour, we should be ready as soon as possible.”
“Okay well, there’s this girl back at Xu Castle…” Yohren said nervously as he fumbled around with his clothes.
“Oh! So you were thinking of someone special?” Kaewyn said smiling as he was pulling his tunic down over his head. “I think I know the one.”
“How can you… I haven’t even told you anything yet.”
Kaewyn only smiled in response.
“Well, before we marched, she found me and pulled me out of sight. She talked to me for a while… and then she hugged me.”
“She hugged you?” Kaewyn said with a sarcastic tone. “Well, I wouldn’t waste anymore thought on this girl if I were you Yohren. It’s obvious that she simply isn’t interested.”
“Please Kaewyn, this is serious. I don’t know what to do.”
“What do you mean? What do you want to do?”
“I don’t know, that’s why I’m asking you.”
“Why are you asking me?”
“Well… when I saw you with Camilla…”
Kaewyn’s heart skipped a beat. He immediately hushed Yohren and gestured to cover his lips in silence.
“Lower your voice.” He said to Yohren. “Best no one finds out about what you saw.”
“Oh, sorry. I just… how do I tell her that I… you know.”
He smiled. “Just go and talk to her. The way I see it, she is either interested or she is not interested. Only way to find out is to talk with her, but I wouldn’t be worrying too much if she sought you out first.”
“Is that what you did with Camilla?” Yohren said so quietly that he had to turn his head to hear him.
“Uhm, not exactly.” Kaewyn admitted.
“Then what did you do? Whatever it you did… it definitely worked!”
Kaewyn shook his head.
“What? Tell me.”
“…I have no idea.”
“…huh? What do you mean?”
“It just… happened.”
“That really doesn’t help me much, you know?”
“My lord. Are you awake?” A voice came from outside the tent. “Our scouts reported that they’ve seen movement across the fjord.”
“I’ll be out in a moment!” Kaewyn called back. “That was General Alaric. We’d better hurry and get ready.”
Both of them continued to get dressed and ready, but before they emerged from the tent, Yohren still seemed unsure. He decided to give what advice he could before they headed outside.
“Look, just talk to this girl. There’s always a chance that something could go wrong, true, but if she has sought you out on her own then there is also a good chance that it will work out positively. Just take that chance, because if you don’t, then you will never know either way.” He explained. “And if it does go poorly, you won’t have anything less than you do already. So essentially, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
Yohren nodded his head enthusiastically. “Alright Kaewyn, I will. I am clueless when it comes to such things, so I thank you for your advice.”
Kaewyn was happy for him, but at the same time he felt a touch of envy. No one would stand in the way of Yohren’s personal relationships, for he was commoner with no noble name. Being a member of the nobility had many advantages, but often when it came to love and relationships, they were forced into whatever made sense politically. Love or kindness played no part in matchmaking between families. The same was true of some commoner families too, but this was the exception rather than the rule. No such barrier existed for the majority of commonfolk, who often chose who they wanted to spend the rest of their lives with. A privilege many nobles were envious of.
More than once he had thought of Camilla since they left Xu Castle. He wanted to be with her, to be able to speak with her whenever he wished, to be able to go riding and hunting together. To not have to be worried about who would see them together. To feel her in his arms, and her lips against his. Camilla was ever present in his dreams as well, often resulting in him having restless sleep. He imagined he looked much like Yohren had most nights around the campfire.
For Kaewyn and Camilla, a noble marriage between them was a viable possibility. They were both of an age, an age that one might’ve expected they should have already both been wed, or at the very least, betrothed to a suitable candidate. But Kaewyn was not sure if that was something Camilla even desired, and even if she did, the decision would not have been hers to make regardless of how she felt about it. As the ruling member of the Callidus family, the decision would fall to Rhys, her brother and Kaewyn’s close friend. He could think of nothing more awkward than asking him for the hand of his sister, and again, the thought of asking Rhys when Camilla’s own feelings on the matter were completely unknown, terrified him.
He only knew how he was feeling, and that was that he wanted to be with her, if she would have him. In that brief moment, he knew what he wanted. He decided that when he saw Camilla next, he would try as tactfully as he could, to bring up the subject and hoped that she would feel the same way he was.
Kaewyn passed through the flap of the tent and was greeted with an orange glow of the rising sun. It was bright, and for a moment his eyes failed to adjust and blinded him. He held up his hands and blocked the bright orange light and shortly, his eyes adapted and he could see properly. The general stood by his horse, fully equipped in his armour as if ready for battle. Beside him, Arlan sat atop his white steed, fully armed and armoured as well. Kaewyn nodded and found his horse and Yohren’s saddled up and already prepared. It was then that he saw Rahim and several mounted soldiers who must have served with him in their father’s campaign.
“I’ve never seen you up this early Kaewyn. Must be a shock to your body.” Rahim chuckled.
“Yes, you would be right, but do you remember what father would always say?” He replied as he casually helped Yohren climb up onto his horse.
Rahim smiled. “If one rises early in the morn, the more time one will have to achieve their goals.”
Kaewyn nodded. “And the only reason we are here is for him. We should not forget that.”
“Wait for me!” An annoyed yet panicked voice echoed from within one of the tents. “I’ll not be left behind.”
“Who is that?” Rahim asked.
“…Marcus.” Kaewyn replied.
The bushy eyed scholar emerged from his tent in a state of half dress. He quickly adjusted his clothes and finished pulling on his robes as he joined them outside.
“Bring me a horse.” He said to no one in particular. “As the senior military advisor, I should be present at this meeting.”
“You appointed this man as a military aid?”
“Senior Advisor.” Marcus corrected.
“Very well…” Rahim said doubtfully. “Fetch this… advisor, a horse. Then let us be on our way. The scouts spotted movement across the Rau, best we not linger.”
“I agree, but we go to parley, are your guards really necessary?” Kaewyn said as he too, mounted his horse.
“They are absolutely necessary brother. Do you forget that these people are the ones who ambushed us and killed father? I’ll not take any chances with them. Bad enough you agreed to meet with them. If it were up to me, we would have crossed the Rau in full force already.”
“And walked promptly into another ambush.” Marcus said. “Lord Kaewyn is taking his due diligence. It is wise to see what they have to say first. It will allow us to make a better decision later on.”
“Who are you to question me in military acumen?” Rahim said defensively.
“I have studied under several illustrious…”
“Not another word from either of you.” Kaewyn snapped. “Marcus, if you are coming then come. Otherwise you can stay here and wait until we return. Let’s go. Hya!”
Kaewyn spurred his horse forwards and rode quickly through the camp. The General and his brother kept up and rode beside him, with Yohren and Marcus coming up the rear. Rahim’s guards included, they numbered seven strong, but only four boasted any significant combat experience. Kaewyn wanted the parley to go peacefully, but there was a high chance that he was simply being optimistic.
With the others following close behind, Kaewyn rode out of the camp and headed for the fjord. The Rau river was the border between Greystone Province and Edheren Province and was untraversable in most parts, except where strong bridges had been built to withstand the current, and of course, fjords like this one. Nothing could be seen on the other bank except a vacant path, trees and barren hills. Still, he had the ominous feeling that hidden within those trees and behind those hills, lay a force to be reckoned with. Only time would tell if he were right.
Kaewyn slowed his horse and then pulled the reigns of his horse and stopped just a few steps from the edge of the fjord. The others did the same and all eyes were fixed upon the opposite bank. Still nothing, but the uneasiness remained. They waited for nearly half of an hour before they spotted something. A rider appeared out of the woods on the opposite side, accompanied by two other riders with horned helmets. The mystery riders rode right up to the bank and stopped, much in the same way they had done earlier. The Rau River slowly trickled across the fjord, but it was still easily crossable. The only barrier now, was fear of what lay in waiting on the opposite side.
With a deep breath, Kaewyn signalled and spurred his horse into a gentle trot. His horse was initially hesitant and fearful for a moment, but when the beast realised the water was not deep, the fear dissipated. His own fear however, only grew with each step. The others followed closely behind him and when they reached the halfway point across the fjord, Rahim suggested they go no further. Kaewyn agreed and they then stopped and simply waited. All he could hear was the running water and the sound of his own heart beating. He stared across the fjord at the three riders and wondered if they were going to move or stay put. After a minute of deliberation, the three riders slowly made their way onto the fjord and toward them. There were only three of them, but seven of us, Kaewyn thought. Suddenly, he understood their trepidation and hesitant behaviour.
Once they were close enough to speak with, Kaewyn felt as though he should say something friendly to disarm the obvious tension, but his brother beat him to it.
“Where is lord Elentide?” Rahim spurted out. “Is the old man too coward to face his death with honour?”
The three riders seemed to pay his brother’s anger filled words no mind. They came closer and closer until there was no longer a need to shout to be heard over the running water. The two riders with horned helms were adorned in heavy plated armour, and Kaewyn noticed that they were armed with massive bows for which the Elentide were famous for. At each of their hips, they carried gnarly looking axes that reflected the water on their sharp edges. The lead rider wore a helmet too, but this one was not horned like the others. Instead, the entire helmet was shaped to look like a mask of an angry disproportionate face. It was made of metal and reflected the sunlight menacingly; it was entirely unsettling. The lead rider then cocked their head to the side and took of their helmet, to reveal a face of hard, sharp features… and long blonde hair.
“I am Lady Elentide.” She spoke confidently. “Which of you is in charge here? Speak quickly, I wish to have this over with as soon as possible.”
Kaewyn was taken aback, as was everyone else accompanying him judging by the sounds of surprise.
“Where is your father?” Rahim spat.
“You, then?” Lady Eliya said pointedly and then rolled her eyes. “Can’t say I’m surprised it’d be the one with a big mouth. You Edderfields always had a bark worse than your bite.”
“After all that has happened, you dare insult us? I should kill you for your insolence!” Rahim shouted.
The two guards accompanying Eliya both tightened their grip on their axes apprehensively. The Lady Eliya too, seemed to tense up.
“I can probably guess why you’ve raised an army and come to Edheren Province, but if it makes you feel any better, you can tell me yourself.” Lady Eliya said smugly.
Rahim growled angrily, but this time Kaewyn was the one to speak. “Lady Eliya? I am Kaewyn Edderfield… and you know why we have come here in force. We seek justice for my father’s murder. Anything less than that will not do.”
“We demand every man involved in the ambush and murder of our father be handed over in chains to be executed at once.” Rahim shouted again.
“Absolute nonsense.” She countered. “Those men were just following the orders of their foolish lord. You cannot blame them for that.”
Rahim drew blade and shouted curses. Lady Eliya’s men drew their axes and looked to her for orders, but she waved them away. Kaewyn too asked for calm, but Rahim was incensed. Yohren had a look of worry and was looking to him for orders, but he had no idea what to do.
“Before this goes awry, let me explain everything!” Lady Eliya shouted.
Her words had some effect, but the situation was still threatening to spill into violence. Rahim had not sheathed his sword, but he wasn’t shouting anymore, still, Kaewyn saw that all too familiar rage in his brother’s eyes. It would take a miracle to calm him now. A small part of him wanted to tell his brother to attack. He wanted to avenge his father as much as he did, but something in the way Lady Eliya was talking told him that there was more to the story. His inner curiosity told him to wait and listen.
“You seek revenge for the death of Lord Corrhen, do you not?” She asked flatly and sternly.
“Damn right we do.” Echoed General Alaric.
“I won’t stop until Lord Elentide lies dead!” Rahim spat.
“When then you can stop, for my father is dead.” She explained without any sign of emotion.
Rahim looked stunned and confused. Kaewyn could relate to how he felt, for he too was shocked. Lord Elentide was already dead?
“My father was a fool and a simpleton. But now that he lies dead, your quarrel with my people is invalid. Edheren Province should remain unmolested by your troops.”
“You lie!” Rahim said, though Kaewyn could tell his anger had been tempered somewhat as his words lacked the conviction he had possessed earlier.
“I do no such thing.” Lady Eliya said calmly. “My father did ambush and kill Lord Corrhen, and for that I feel I should apologise on behalf of the Elentide family, but the old bastard is dead and buried now. As far as I am concerned, he got what he deserved.”
“How can you be so cold when talking of your own flesh and blood?” Arlan asked, adding in his first contribution to the parley.
She looked at Arlan with cold eyes and looked him up and down, as if she were getting the measure of him. “He was not… a kind father.”
“Why did your father ambush ours? What madness possessed him into ambushing our men on their way home after the battles against the Great Traitor?” Kaewyn asked.
“My father only ambushed yours because he was coerced into it. He was tricked!” Lady Eliya protested.
“A convenient excuse.” Rahim doubted.
“And a likely story. How do we even know Lord Elentide is truly dead?” General Alaric added.
“If the lot of you would shut your mouths and listen to me, you would know by now.” She said angrily. “Elentide and Edderfield… our two families have always been at each other’s throats. You cannot deny there has always been bad blood between us.”
“That may be true, but to ambush and murder?” General Alaric said with a shake of the head.
“My father hated Lord Corrhen, but he would never have acted against him so rashly without certain… assurances and promises.” Lady Eliya explained. “Just before your men entered Edheren Province and travelled down the Emperor’s Way, my father received a letter. In this letter, he was pushed to set up a trap for your father and his men.”
Kaewyn listened to her every word eagerly. He wanted to know the truth of the matter more than anything else. What madness had warranted the murder of his father, and more importantly, who was responsible.
“My father had doubts of course, to ambush and kill a lord of the empire is essentially a treasonous act, but the writer of this letter guaranteed that the Emperor himself would reward his actions… titles… wealth, you name it, it was offered.” Lady Eliya said with a disgusted look. “...And my father ate it all up. He organised the ambush that very day.”
“Who wrote this letter?” Kaewyn demanded. “Tell us who!”
“It was written by Lord Valehran himself. The leader of your Coalition of Lords.” Lady Eliya said slowly.
“No… this isn’t possible.” Rahim said in utter disbelief. “This cannot be the truth.”
“It is.” She confirmed, holding out in her hands what must have been that very letter. “It’s yours to read at your displeasure. Proof my words are not honeyed lies, but the horrible truth.”
“I feared as much.” Marcus Linforde said loudly. “Lord Valehran has much to gain by Lord Corrhen’s death. I take it he is also responsible for your own father’s death, my lady?”
“He is.” Lady Eliya spat. “The bastard tricked my father into killing yours, and then when my father reported that the foul deed had been done, he invaded Edheren Province the next day.”
“He took advantage of your predicament.” Marcus explained. “He knew that by orchestrating Lord Corrhen’s murder at your father’s hand, he would have no allies to call upon when he invaded Edheren Province. Thus, he isolated you and made you an easy target. The only thing I do not understand is how you are here before us now. Such a masterful strategy should have won him your lands. Did his army not come?”
“Oh, his army came, and slaughtered us. My father… and both my brothers, along with nearly our entire army lay dead at our northern border. Barely a man survived. That is why I now lead, a family of one. Edheren Province is now my responsibility, and I take that that responsibility very seriously. I will defend my land to the very last breath,” Lady Eliya said sternly, her eyes locked on Rahim as she finished her sentence. “…from whoever might threaten us.”
“You’ll have a hard time defending Edheren Province to the very last breath with no troops.” General Alaric poked.
“I still don’t understand…” Kaewyn said. “How has Lord Valehran not taken your lands?”
“Tch, some luck gifted to us by the gods it would seem.” Lady Eliya said laughing bitterly. “After he crushed our army in the field, his troops suddenly withdrew back across the border. We were confused at first, but word soon reached us that some other northern lord took the opportunity to attack the bastard’s capital why he was away. Can you imagine it?”
“The Heartlands have truly fallen to chaos.” Arlan said sadly. “I wished it were not so.”
“Better them than us.” Lady Eliya said sternly.
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
“I still don’t believe you.” Rahim said angrily. “How can all of this have happened without us knowing? You must be lying. Your father is to blame for all of this. He must pay!”
“Go piss on his grave if you want. I won’t stop you.” Lady Eliya said offhandedly. “Gods, I may even join you.”
“Rahim… you need to calm yourself. This is… a lot to take in at once.” Kaewyn said.
“I understand.” Lady Eliya said. “I trust that we will not be going to war then?”
“You just admitted to us that your army was wiped out, why would be spurn this chance to take your lands from you?” Rahim spat angrily. “We should attack solely on principle for what your father did!”
Lady Eliya immediately tensed up, and her guards stared at them through their horned helmets, watching intently for any sign. She then raised her hand and moved it in an obvious signal to someone they couldn’t see. Fearful of another ambush from hidden archers in the woods, Kaewyn’s horse began to panic so he pulled the reins and tried to calm the beast, all the while trying to disarm the situation. General Alaric and Rahim’s two guards however, paid him no mind and prepared for a fight. Just as everything threatened to come to a head, four armoured men emerged from the woods carrying something large together upon their shoulders. It took him a moment, but he quickly realised that it was a coffin.
“There is no need for violence between us.” Lady Eliya said as the coffin bearers entered the fjord. “As a gesture of goodwill, we humbly return to you the body of your lord and father.”
The coffin bearers came closer and closer until they stopped at the order of their lady. Kaewyn rode closer and placed his hand onto the wooden texture and felt something break inside of him. Rahim too, looked stunned. Gone was the rage and hatred that Kaewyn was so used to seeing in him now. All that remained was the little child and brother he knew and loved. The tension was gone.
“I am truly sorry for what happened that day.” Lady Eliya said, perhaps the most genuine tone she had taken since they had met. “My people do not want to fight yours.”
“Thank you….” Kaewyn managed to say between tears welling up in his eyes.
“You are welcome… Kaewyn.” Lady Eliya said softly. “You too, Rahim.”
His brother said no words, but his blank stare told him all he needed to know. He was in shock.
“Despite our differences in the past, it is clear that Lord Valehran and perhaps the other northern lords are far more dangerous to us both that we realised.” She went on. “After this meeting, I hope you can see that we will work much better as allies, than as enemies. Only together can we even hope to resist the north and their ambitions.”
“We came here with the intention to invade you, but what you’ve explained to us warrants further discussion. “Kaewyn admitted. “I cannot give you a decision so quickly, and I would like to hold a funeral for my father first.”
“Very well.” Lady Eliya said with a polite bow. “There is something else I think you need to be made aware of.”
“What is it?” General Alaric asked.
“Some of my… let’s call them, simpler people, have decided that as a woman I am not worthy of ruling Edheren Province. They’ve abandoned me and become rebels, stealing much of my equipment and arms. They patrol the rivers, including this one, and raid everything on both sides. You’ve probably already heard of their deeds.”
“This sounds like a problem for you.” The General said. “What does this have to do with us?”
“Everything. These rebels will raid your lands soon enough. You’d do well to be rid of them.” She explained. “Take note, these are not simple bandits and raiders, but professional soldiers. They may be dumb as an oak, but do not doubt the skill of their sword arms. If you would assist me in subduing these troublemakers, I will swear to honour our alliance and come to your aid if you should ever need it. Provided you do the same, naturally.”
“Another matter that will need to be discussed.” Kaewyn added.
“I understand.” Lady Eliya said as she signalled to her men to withdraw. “We will fall back from the fjord as a sign of goodwill and trust. If you follow the Rau north, you will find our camp. I expect a response by tomorrow midday. But take care, if you decide to double cross us and cross the river in force, we will know about it.”
Kaewyn nodded to show that he understood.
“Until we meet again. I pray our future meetings are more pleasant.”
Lady Eliya turned her horse and rode back to the Edheren side of the fjord, her horse splashing up water with every hasty step. Kaewyn watched her ride off out of view and thought on her words, if she had spoken the truth, then there was much to discuss about the future of their campaign.
He ordered the coffin bearers to bring his father’s body to their camp and then explained that they would be free to go. The slow journey back to their camp felt like an eternity. He was relieved when the coffin bearers finally set it down gently just outside their camp, where his own men rushed over and carried it the rest of the way.
As Kaewyn and everyone else who had attended the meeting entered the camp, the soldiers gathered and watched them expectantly. Word had spread quickly throughout the camp about the parley with the Elentide and every soldier wanted to know what had happened. Some were nosy and curious, while others looked apprehensive and concerned.
What united all of them however, was the sadness that had overcome each and every man who spotted the coffin and guessed what was within. Some soldiers fell to their knees and lowered their heads and let out tears. A few others grimaced and shook their heads. Many still, showed anger at what had befallen their late lord. The atmosphere of the camp had changed drastically.
When the coffin was gently placed in the centre of the camp for all to see, the coffin bearers then bowed and left in a hurry, eager to be back across the Rau and away from those who might have been their enemies by tomorrow. Kaewyn dismounted his horse and handed the reins over to a willing soldier and then placed his hand upon the side of his father’s coffin. He was grateful that his father’s body had been returned. It gave him a sense of calm and peace, but he knew this feeling was only temporary. True peace would elude him until his father’s killer had been brought to justice.
Kaewyn told Yohren and the others to begin organising his father’s funeral with a heavy heart. He had been thinking on his father’s funeral arrangements for a long time. He had pictured a pyre in the courtyard of Xu Castle, or a public funeral in the town square of Oakerton. Perhaps even an extravagant multi day affair where nobles from all over the Empire were invited, but none seemed appropriate to the man his father was.
It was then that the idea finally came to him. The shrine of Ohnix that he and Rahim had visited was a special place for his father. In addition, it was quiet and peaceful, a fitting place for a funeral of a man who only spoke when he had something to say. His father was stern, quiet, but also possessed an aura of serenity. The shrine felt like the perfect place to lay his father’s spirit to rest.
As they prepared to leave the camp and head to the shrine, Marcus confronted him and demanded that they hold a council to discuss what they were going to do, but Kaewyn simply ignored him. He was not going to delay his father’s funeral for even a moment. It was a common belief for the people in the Empire that the spirits of the dead were not permitted to rest until their bodies had been buried or cremated. His father had been killed just over a week ago, and he could not stand the thought of his father’s spirit in turmoil. Marcus however, took a stand and refused to be ignored. Kaewyn felt the anger rise up within him and snapped at his advisor. He expected Rahim to take his side, but to his surprise, his brother moved in between them and tried to calm him down.
“He’s right Kaewyn.” Marcus explained. “As much as I hate to admit it, he’s right.”
“This funeral needs to happen Rahim; I cannot stand the idea of father’s spirit suffering because we wasted our time on other things.”
“Listen to me.” Rahim said firmly, taking hold of his shoulders. “I will organise father’s funeral with the monks, okay? Let me do it.”
“But—”
“No brother. Marcus is right. You need to decide what to do with what Lady Eliya told us. I don’t trust her and have my doubts about her words, but my anger has always clouded my judgement. You’ve always known better than I have when it comes to such things.” Rahim explained. “Preparing for the funeral will take some time, so I will go on ahead and get it all ready. Once you are done here, come join me at the shrine. Then we can say goodbye to him, together.”
Kaewyn wiped at his eyes. “Are you certain?”
“I am. Go have your council.” Rahim said with a sad smile. “I will wait for you there.”
Rahim soon left the camp with the coffin being carried by some veteran soldiers who had volunteered for the honoured role of coffin bearer. It hurt Kaewyn to see them leaving without him. More than once he resisted the desire to just ride after them and abandon his responsibility, but he was no longer that young man who did whatever he wanted. He knew that the main cause of conflict between himself and his father had always his lack of effort in pursuing his responsibilities. It had driven a wedge between them as Kaewyn had gotten older. He felt a great deal of guilt for how he had acted in the past, but all he could do now was embrace his responsibilities rather than ignoring or avoiding them. He realised that in a way, he was doing that now.
As Rahim and his men disappeared from view, Kaewyn informed the others of the meeting and told them to be at his tent within five minutes. He knew that it was going to be incredibly difficult to focus on such important military matters so soon after his father’s body had been returned, but he owed to everyone to perform his duty.
The meeting began shortly after in Kaewyn’s tent. Small boxes and other suitable surfaces had been brought inside to act as seats. Kaewyn noted those attending the meeting were Marcus Linforde, General Alaric and Arlan, as well as the ever present Yohren who stood beside him. Some military officials were also present, but they mostly remained quiet and let their general speak on their behalf.
“We are at a very different position than the one we thought to find ourselves in.” Marcus began. “We came here to invade Edheren Province, but now we ponder whether or not to enter into an alliance with them instead. Our decision must be based on what is best for Greystone, and whether or not we believe Lady Eliya’s words are genuine.”
“I agree.” General Alaric said plainly. “I do not trust the Elentide family, never have. My father told me they are not much more than raiders and pirates of the river, but I must admit her words rang true in my ears. I still do not know whether that warrants trust on our part.”
“I was taught at a young age that only fools trust on words alone.” Arlan added. “Actions show one’s true worth.”
“We should start with what we know as definite truth.” Marcus suggested. “Which admittedly, is not much.”
“We know nothing other than that Lady Eliya does not wish to fight us.” General Alaric said. “Whether this is because she fears our retribution for the murder of Lord Corrhen, or her army has been wiped out as she claimed, I cannot say. All I can say is that it is mightily convenient that her father is entirely to blame and that he already lies dead.”
Kaewyn shook his head. “We came here to avenge my father’s murder, but if what Lady Eliya says is the truth, then her father who is responsible for the actual deed is dead. The question remains on whether we believe her when she says he was manipulated into doing so by Lord Valehran of the Heartlands.”
“Even if Lord Valehran orchestrated such a heinous act my lord, what can we do about it?” Marcus countered. “His lands lie far to the North and are out of reach. His lands are also fertile and his army is large and well trained by your brothers own report. We need to focus on what we can gain to increase our powerbase, and even if Lady Eliya’s words are true, Edheren Province is weak and barely defended…”
“Marcus… if she is telling no lies, then we have no reason to attack her. Her father lies dead.”
“Her land is still valuable to us my lord. Whether she is telling the truth or not, changes little.”
“I’ll not go to war out of greed.” Kaewyn said firmly. “I only agreed to this campaign because I wanted to avenge my father. If attacking Edheren Province does not achieve this, then I do not wish to do it. Am I understood?”
“Yes, my lord… but—”
“No Marcus. That’s the final word on it as far as I am concerned.”
“Will Rahim not think differently on the matter?” Marcus pushed. “Will not our soldiers? Will they believe what they perceive to be lies from the enemy as a reason to not retaliate? What happens when these men follow Rahim and ignore you and follow him to war? You will not be a lord for long.”
“I’ve had enough of your insolence Marcus. Another word and I’ll have you removed.” He snapped.
“As you wish.” Marcus said snidely, his blatant disregard for Kaewyn’s authority obvious to everyone.
“If Lord Valehran is the one who killed your father Kaewyn, then I think he is the real problem here.” Yohren said. “I think we should be friends with Lady Eliya. This Lord has already shown that he wants to invade her lands, and if he killed Lord Corrhen, then he must have plans for us too?”
“That does make some sense.” General Alaric said supportively. “I just do not know if we can trust the word of an Elentide.”
“My lord!” A voice called from outside the tent. “A rider has arrived at the camp. He requests to see you immediately. Should we let him in?”
Kaewyn looked around in surprise only to see the same general reaction from everyone else too.
“Let him in.”
“Yes, my lord.” The guard replied.
The tent flap opened and a very young-looking man entered. His face was untouched by stubble and bore the likeness of one who had barely come of age. He wore a leather doublet with a surcoat coloured an all too familiar black and gold. He was a Severus!
“Greetings my lord.” The young man said. His voice was high like that of a child. “I am Tavian Severus. Youngest son of the late Lord Severus.”
“A Severus?” General Alaric said as he put his hand to the hilt of his blade.
“Calm yourself General. Let the boy speak.” Marcus warned.
“What brings you here Tavian?” Kaewyn asked, his curiosity piqued.
“Lord Edderfield?” The boy said in awe.
“Technically not yet.” Marcus subtly jabbed, referring to the fact that the succession had still not been decided.
Kaewyn ignored Marcus and gestured for Tavian to speak.
“I bring… a proposal.” Tavian said nervously, struggling to make eye contact.
“Out with it then.” General Alaric said.
“May I sit?”
Kaewyn gestured for him to be seated and the young man did as he was beckoned.
“Firstly, I wanted to apologise on behalf of my family for what happened.” Tavian said nervously. “I opposed the plan, but my father wouldn’t listen to me… you see, I’m somewhat of a black sheep of the Severus family.”
“Yes, yes, get to the part where you ask for your inevitable favour.” General Alaric said annoyedly.
“Yes, well... uhm. What you need to know is this. When my father and two oldest brothers died in the Battle of the Rau, the title fell to my other older brother. We come from a family of four brothers, you see—”
“The Battle of the Rau?” Kaewyn asked.
“That’s…. what the scholars and bards are calling it my lord.” Tavian explained.
“That is the first I’ve heard it called as such.” Kaewyn said. “The Battle of the Rau… sounds like one of those battles I’d read about as a child.”
“And why wouldn’t it be, my lord? It was a masterful display on your part.”
Kaewyn rolled his eyes at the obvious attempt at flattery, but he had to admit, it felt nice to be talked about by scholars and bards. It made him feel like one of the heroic figures he idolised in the books he couldn’t get enough of as a child.
“Why are you here boy?” General Alaric said sternly, which made Kaewyn chuckle slightly, as he saw himself, Yohren and indeed, the General, only being three or four years the senior of Tavian.
“As I said… when my father and brothers, Cassius and Carlin, were killed. It sent our court into turmoil. My remaining older brother Marcus acted quickly and seized the title of lord.”
“Another Marcus?” Kaewyn said amusedly. “God’s help us.”
“The fool may share a name with me, but that does not make him my equal.” Marcus stammered.
“Nor you, his.” Kaewyn countered.
Marcus grumbled, but otherwise kept his mouth shut.
“What does this have to do with us?” Yohren added, his first words since Tavian had entered.
Tavian didn’t respond immediately, and Kaewyn noticed his eyes were fixed upon Yohren. His eyes lingered and he saw confusion, doubt and possibly fear. Something about Yohren’s appearance had startled the boy, as though he was seeing something familiar and foreign at the same time.
“Well?” Yohren repeated. “Why are you starting at me?”
“I… I’m not.” Tavian stammered nervously. “I think it is important that you know that Marcus has banished me from Oscua Province and sworn vengeance upon you. He swore to our ancestors that he would have revenge for the murder of his father and brothers.”
“…This sounds awfully familiar.” Marcus Linforde said sarcastically.
“Marcus… my brother that is… isn’t someone you can ignore and hope he goes away. Out of all my brothers, he was the most bloodthirsty. So much so he wasn’t even trusted by my warlike father with any significant responsibilities. I never took to war and battle; because of this, I was shunned, but Marcus relishes in it.”
“Are you saying here to tell us that this Marcus, has declared war upon us?” General Alaric asked plainly.
“No. My brother doesn’t care if you know he’s coming or not.” Tavian explained. “I’ve come with a proposition I hope you will consider.”
“Alright, tell me of this idea of yours.” Kaewyn said.
Tavian bowed and then continued. “My father had four sons, now two are dead. Only my brother Marcus and I remain. Under Marcus, Oscua will suffer, just as it did under my father. The rest of my family have always sought out war and battle.”
“The Severus family does have a reputation.” Arlan added as he scratched at his chin. “They know war, but little of administration.”
“Indeed.” Tavian affirmed, seemingly gaining confidence as he spoke. “What I propose is this. Take your army and invade Oscua Province. Defeat my brother Marcus, and place me as the new lord. I will end hostilities between the Severus and Edderfield families.”
“I’m not seeing any particular benefit to us.” Marcus Linforde added. “unless…”
“I… I will swear myself in fealty you, Lord Edderfield. To act as your vassal and rule Oscua Province in your name.” Tavian said. “I will answer your call to arms and pay you a percentage of taxes the province generates, in exchange for your protection.”
“That is quite the proposal you have there.” Kaewyn said. “But if my army was to take Oscua Province, why would I not appoint my own vassal to rule it? Someone I trust?”
“What he’s saying boy, is why does he need you?” General Alaric added.
“You need me for several reasons.” Tavian said confidently. It was obvious he anticipated and prepared for such questions beforehand. “One, I know the land and I know the situation in Oscua. I can help you take it much easier than if you tried it alone. Two. I have come to you with the idea when I could have just as easily let my brother attack you unprepared. Granted… you repelled my father masterfully, but this time you appear to be busy with the Elentide. Three and finally, the people of Oscua are as stubborn as my father was. Even if you did take the province, they would never accept you. I may be a black sheep of my family, but I am still a Severus. They will accept your rule if it comes through me.”
Kaewyn took a deep breath and leaned back on his seat, pondering all that the young man had said. Without speaking a word, he looked to each of his advisors to see their reaction. The General seemed neutral on the idea, while Yohren appeared to be still considering. Marcus on the other hand, was practically drooling at the prospect. Kaewyn could tell that the idea of taking Oscua Province appealed greatly to him.
“Tavian Severus.” Kaewyn said. “I thank you for coming to me with your proposal, and indeed for warning us of your brother’s impending attack. For that, you have my gratitude.”
“You are welcome my lord.” Tavian replied. “Have… have you made a decision?”
“Please wait outside and I will notify you after we have taken the time privately discuss it amongst ourselves.”
“Very well…. Am…am I your prisoner then?”
“What? No, of course not. Just do not try to leave camp.”
“Oh, okay.” Tavian said as he bowed politely. “It was an honour to meet you Lord Edderfield.”
Tavian then exited the tent. A silence took hold as each person within the tent shared a look with one another, before Marcus spoke up.
“A gift from the gods… if you believe in such nonsense.” Marcus scoffed.
The token of Ohnix around Kaewyn’s neck suddenly became irritable and scratchy, as if it had taken offense at the advisors’ words. He knew it was merely a coincidence, but he adjusted the position of the token all the same.
“What do you think everyone? Can we trust him?” Kaewyn asked openly.
“My lord, this is no matter of trust. That boy couldn’t lie to save himself.” Marcus said with the biggest smile he had ever seen. “This is a golden opportunity. Not only does it solve our current predicament, but it also allows us to pacify a potential enemy and gain land in the process. If we ignore this, simply put, we are fools.”
“General?”
“I’m inclined to agree, though I worry about crossing into Oscua Province. If this boy leads us into a trap, it will be another Battle of the Rau, but reversed.” General Alaric explained. “But as Marcus says… this is an opportunity that seldom comes twice.”
“Arlan, what is your opinion?”
“I’ve long heard of how Oscua Province suffers for the misrule of the Severus family. I would welcome a chance to change that, if not for us, then for it’s native people.” Arlan explained. “I am of the opinion that we should help.”
“Yohren?”
“You’re… asking me?”
“I am. I trust your instincts.” Kaewyn said. “What do you think?”
“I… I believe Tavian. I don’t know why, but I do not think he is lying to us. He seemed much to nervous.”
“A little bit like you eh?” Kaewyn teased.
“Some people act nervously when they tell a lie.” General Alaric pointed out.
“I understand your worries General, but I agree with Yohren and Marcus on this. I do not think that Tavian has it in him to lie.” Kaewyn explained. “This is all based on a first impression of course. We could be wrong about him.”
“We should send word to Lady Eliya that we accept her terms for an alliance.” Marcus suggested. “We can leave a token force behind to help her deal with her deserter problem, and turn our attention to Oscua Province.”
“What do we all think? Who is for this new plan?” Kaewyn said loudly.
“Aye.” Marcus said.
“Aye.” Yohren echoed.
“Aye.” Arlan nodded.
“…Aye, my lord.” The General said softly. “Aye.”
“Then it is decided. We will withdraw from Edheren Province and march south back to Xu Castle briefly, then continue south and invade Oscua Province.” Kaewyn commanded.
“We could also send word to Lord Rhys to join us my lord.” Marcus suggested.
“I have no doubts he will accept.” General Alaric added. “He said he wanted revenge on them for the invasion when I was helping him reclaim Vinum Province.”
“Very well. Send word to Lady Eliya and tell her we agree, and then send word to Lord Rhys and request his assistance in the invasion of Oscua Province. We will march tomorrow morning at dawn.”
“What about Rahim? What about avenging your father?” Yohren asked.
“If what Lady Eliya said is true… then Lord Valehran is to blame for my father’s death, not her or her people. I will never forgive or forget what he has done, but he is also the one who holds the Emperor captive in the Heartlands. He is out of reach… and far more powerful than we. Rahim will have to understand as I have come to, that we will need to build up our power and armies before we would even have a chance against Lord Valehran.”
“I hope he sees it the way you do…” General Alaric added. “Your brother can be…difficult.”
“I know…” Kaewyn said bitterly. “But this is the way forward now. It is decided.”
After Kaewyn was certain that the proper preparations had been made for the march tomorrow, he left the camp under the command of Marcus who was overseeing the organisation of the troops. He set out from the camp and headed through the winding paths on the way to the shrine for his father’s funeral. Those that made the journey with him were mostly some of the older, veteran troops who had served in the army a long time, others included officers and military officials. General Alaric, Yohren, and Arlan all decided to come and pay their respects to the late lord as well.
When they arrived at the shrine to Ohnix, Kaewyn was surprised to see that the sun had already begun to falter and that the sky had darkened. The first thing he saw was not the great carved tree of Ohnix, but a large funeral pyre made out of various tree branches and sticks. His father’s body lay still atop the pyre with his arms crossed across his chest. The sight nearly brought him to instant tears.
Rahim greeted each and every person who had come to pay their respects. He spoke softly and with a low, deep voice. Kaewyn saw that the coffin he had been brought in lay empty and off to the side. One of the monks was chopping at it with an axe and periodically added the wood to the fire. Lady Eliya might have meant well with the coffin, but in was Edderfield tradition to cremate the bodies rather than bury them. A trend that was becoming more popular with the nobility in recent generations.
After everyone had arrived, Kaewyn saw Rahim approach one of the monks and speak with him.
“It will be dark shortly.” The old monk who had sold them their pendants said with a sad smile. “When the light of the sun has gone, we will begin the ceremony as requested.”
Rahim nodded. “You have my gratitude monk.”
The monk smiled and left him to his business, so Kaewyn took the opportunity to approach and speak with his brother.
“Any trouble?” he asked.
“No, the monks were very hospitable.” Rahim replied. “I think they really respected father. They seemed genuinely happy to help us with the funeral here.”
“That’s good to hear.”
For a time, the two of them simply stood in silence and watched as everyone gathered around the pyre. Some said words while others remained quiet and solemn. The monks finished preparing the pyre and then returned to their prayers. Kaewyn was impressed by the fact that they had not tried to peddle their wares upon such a large gathering of people, many of whom might’ve been vulnerable to persuasion in such an emotional moment.
As night overtook day, the last vestiges of light disappeared beyond the horizon and all around them became dark. The monks ignited torches of flame and lit half a dozen sconces that surrounded the courtyard of stone. The fires created dancing shadows that were cast upon the enormous base of the Ohnix tree itself. It was a mesmerising sight, and Kaewyn wondered if the sconces were placed where they were to intentionally create this effect.
“I found this on his body.” Said Rahim as he held out an old, battered token of Ohnix. “Seems the monks were right.”
“He never showed us this.” Kaewyn said as he took the old token into his hands.
“Probably thought we would have laughed at him.” Rahim said. “When he brought me here after we had just left to battle the Great Traitor… he tried to show me the serenity of this place. He tried to show me what it meant to him. I didn’t realise he was serious at the time, so I laughed at him. I realise now… how much that must have hurt him.”
“You didn’t know.” Kaewyn said as he pocketed the token.
“Doesn’t make me feel any better.” Rahim shook his head. “I don’t believe in any of this Ohnix stupidity, but I will hold onto the pendant we were given by the old monk… until the day I die.”
Kaewyn smiled. “As will I. I think he would have liked that.”
“The time has come, young lords.” The old monk said, beckoning them to come closer to the pyre.
In the old monk’s hand, he held a torch of bright flame that flickered against the night. He waved it about in the air and said some words that only the monks knew the meaning of. Then all of the monks surrounded the pyre and bowed. The old monk turned to the brothers and nodded.
“The flame should be lit by a son.”
The old monk handed the torch to Kaewyn and gestured him toward the pyre. He hesitated at first but he knew that this was the only way to grant his father’s spirit peace. With all of the eyes of those gathered there in the darkness upon him, he walked to the pyre and lowered the torch to the base of the pyre. To his surprise, the wood caught fire quickly and travelled suddenly around the base of the pyre. The monks must have added something flammable when they had prepared made it to speed up the process.
Kaewyn handed the torch back to the old monk and stepped back beside Rahim. Not a word was said, as was in line with the traditional custom of funerals within the Empire. If someone wished to say something to the departed during these ceremonies, they were expected to do so in the privacy of their own mind. It was believed that the spirit of the dead was able to hear all of these words meant only for them and therefore nothing was to be said aloud until the fire had consumed the body.
Kaewyn stood shoulder to shoulder with Rahim as they both watched the fire rise up into the night sky. All they could hear above the sound of crickets was the crackling of the flames. He saw the pain in the faces of others standing on the other side of the pyre as their faces were illuminated by the orange glow. Only then, when he saw tears streaming down the faces of others, did he realise that he too, had begun to cry. He lowered his head and felt the tears travel down his cheeks. His throat was sore and his eyes burned. He felt a comforting hand on his shoulder and looked to see Rahim wiping his own face. Kaewyn grabbed the token of Ohnix that hung loosely from his neck and held it in his hand. With his other hand, he pulled out the token that Rahim had found on his father’s body and held it together with his own. It was then that he decided to speak to his father, one last time.
I’m sorry father. I know… I know that I should have shown more interest in learning what you wanted to teach me. I’m trying now… I really am, but I regret all of those times I ignored you, all of those times I told you I would rather be doing something else. Only now, after you are gone, have I realised how much pain you must have been in whenever I disappeared into town, or when I hid in my chambers and read books instead of attending your council meetings… I’m sorry. I promise I will never avoid my responsibilities again. I hope I can make you proud of me, despite my failings as a son. I…love you.
Kaewyn let himself cry in the view of others for the first time since he was a child. No one was judging him, for all those who had gathered there to mourn and pay their respects to their late lord, there was not a single person who had not shed a tear.