Chapter 23 – Commencement
“The arena is huge.” Dame Simium commented as her father escorted her in.
“It is rather impressive.” Lord Simium replied.
“It is a shame brother cannot be here.” Dame Simium said as they walked further into the massive coliseum arena.
“Yes, a real tragedy.” Lord Longshot said sarcastically.
Lord Dormeir shook his head at his friend and peer. The two of them walked together up to the arena stage. Deathwalker had seen to it that all the high nobles would have a seat near him. Sebastian thought it was quite clever. This gave the high nobles a place of honor among all in attendance, yet implied they supported and backed the new duke.
Deathwalker was already sitting next to King Alfheim and his retinue was sitting to the left of Deathwalker. Lady Emma, the crown princess, sat to his right, then Duchess Lightheart, followed by Elder Martha. Sebastian’s seat was next to the city ruler, with Lord Longshot next to him. Lord Simium and his daughter were next, followed by General Marius and Guildmaster Darrius.
Cal, Mara, Trader Malcom, Paul, Clarisse, Betterman, Ron, Samuel sat with Alyce and Elsa behind Deathwalker. Garry, Draconis, Mrrsha, Prrsha, and Frrsha stood behind them. Commander Willis stood with the Savage Squad and had his men stationed throughout the arena.
The stands were already filled to burst. In the front of the stage stood a podium with a magical artifact affixed to it. This magic tool would enhance and project the speaker’s voice across the coliseum and beyond.
Seeing the people taking their seats, Deathwalker and Elder Martha rose to their feet and approached the podium. Elder Martha spoke up first. “Good people of Timberfall and esteemed visitors, let me welcome you to our city.”
Cheers erupted from the stands. Elder Martha raised her hand and the crowd’s excitement died down. “It is my honor to introduce my liege, the duke of Timberfall Duchy, Deathwalker Dragonvein!”
The crown clapped and smiled as Deathwalker raised his hand, the noise quieted. “Thank you, Elder Martha. It was important to me, as you are the noble over this city that you were the one to kick this off.”
The citizens of Timberfall cheered for Elder Martha and their duke. After a few moments Deathwalker continued. “I also felt it was important to celebrate the formation of our duchy and to commemorate that with a weeklong celebration. Many have come from far and wide to enjoy this first ever Timberfall festival!”
Deathwalker gave the crowd a few moments to die down again. “During this festival there will be cooks, breweries, and cuisine from all over. The portal fees are waived for your arrival and departure each day. This is to make it easier for more people to join us in the celebration. As many traders have come for this festival, I encourage you to enjoy the market and sample the food.”
More cheering echoed through the coliseum and the streets beyond.
Deathwalker continued. “Also, I want to promote healthy competition. We will be conducting a series of tournaments here in this arena over the next several days. Anyone interested can register at the various booths surrounding the arena. There will be multiple separate competitions. To start, Timberfall is a lumber export, how could we not have a few lumberjack feats of strength and skill!”
Most of the original residents of Timberfall expressed their excitement at getting a chance to show off their craft.
“In addition, there will be tournaments in melee combat, magic, archery, cooking, and brewing!”
The crowd seemed excited by this announcement, and murmurs could be heard from people commenting on which they would try their hand at.
“Now to help keep things fair, there will be a panel of judges to help determine the winners. Please help me welcome our panel of judges; King Alfheim of the elves, Duchess Lightheart of the Hargrave Duchy, Elder Martha, Guildmaster Darrius, Betterman of Betterman Leathers, Clarisse of the Explorers League, and Samuel of the Sleepy Inn.”
Each person stood up and approached as Deathwalker announced their name. Finally, he raised his hand for silence. “Last but not least, the royal family’s official representative for the festival, the crown princess, Lady Emma!”
This time the crowd got louder. Everyone had heard the official news that the King and Queen made it clear Lady Emma was the successor to the throne. Many knew there were rumors of her impending betrothal to Deathwalker. Seeing Lady Emma come to stand beside him, the crowd could not help but get excited.
“Thank you, good people of Timberfall Duchy. Let me also welcome King Alfheim, my grandfather to our Kingdom of Nord. As many of you have come to learn, our Duke Deathwalker Dragonvein and his allies have accomplished much since he arrived. Please join me in our support of him and our new Timberfall Duchy!”
People took to their feet and clapped and cheered.
“Thank you, Crown Princess, Lady Emma, and all of you for your support. Much is to come for our duchy and the kingdom as we usher in a new era of prosperity. This festival is the beginning of prosperity to come. We will end this festival with a grand hunt, that I will lead. The food we catch will be prepared by the winner of the cooking competition and shared with all attendees of the Timberfall festival!” Deathwalker quickly raised his hand before the crowd could get too loud as he continued. “In addition, I will personally be buying multiple casks from the winner of the brewing competition. If they cannot supply enough, I will purchase from the runner ups. These casks will be shared freely with all of you!”
Now that made the whole arena and surrounding streets erupt praising their duke for his generosity.
Deathwalker took Elder Martha and Lady Emma’s hands in his, Lady Emma took her grandfather’s hand, who took his daughter’s. They all raised their arms up. Deathwalker spoke first. “Now let this festival begin!”
“With our blessings enjoy!” Lady Emma echoed.
“To our kin in the Kingdom of Nord!” King Alfheim called out.
“I approve of this momentous occasion!” Duchess Lightheart said.
“Let us celebrate Timberfall!” Elder Martha called out.
“That was well done Duke Dragonvein.” Dame Simium commented as her and Lord Simium approached.
“Thank you, Dame Simium. I hope you and your father enjoy the festival.” Deathwalker replied before turning his attention to her father. “Lord Simium, if you are interested, I would like you to help Commander Willis with some matters while I am indisposed with the judging. Also, if you are open to it, step in to judge some of the preliminary contests in my stead when my duties do not allow me to get away.”
Lord Simium bowed. “You do me much honor, my duke. I appreciate the trust you are giving me.”
“You are one of my vassals and I hope in time we can consider each other friends.” Deathwalker put his hand out and shook Lord Simium’s hand.
“Thank you for putting your faith in our family.” Dame Simium bowed as well before her father escorted her off the stage.
Lord Dormeir spoke up as he approached with Lord Longshot right on his heels. “I see you did not ask Longshot and I to be judges.”
Deathwalker chuckled. “Where would the fun be for you two. Besides, how can you participate if I made you a judge?”
“I plan to win the Melee tournament.” Lord Dormeir said with excitement.
“And I look forward to winning the Archery competition!” Lord Longshot had a look of determination on his face.
“Then I guess my sister and I will have to give you a run for your money!” Cal teased, as he and Mara joined the conversation.
“Ah, yes, I have heard of your quick blades Calcius. It shall be fun to see what you can do.” Lord Dormeir replied.
“My brother is one of the best with the blades and I have yet to be matched with the arrow.” Mara said.
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Lord Longshot raised an eyebrow. “Oh really?”
Deathwalker interjected. “Lord Longshot this is Cal and his sister Mara. I am a part of their adventuring party. I do believe Mara will be tough to beat as will Cal.”
Lord Longshot smiled as he shook both their hands. “This tournament shall be more fun than I expected.” He then held out his elbow to Mara. “Care to accompany me to range to warm up?”
“Sure, why not. I keep hearing you are the best in the kingdom. Let us see if that is true.” Mara smiled back and hooked her arm into his elbow.
Cal tightened his hands on the hilts of his blades. ‘If he tries to hurt her or is playing some game...’ Cal’s thoughts were cutoff by his friend’s words.
“The melee competition does not start for several hours. That gives you plenty of time to escort a certain person to the festivities. It is her day off work after all.”
Cal smiled at Deathwalker, nodded, and then excused himself before darting off at high speed. Lady Emma commented on the sudden change. “I am guessing Mary Sue.”
Deathwalker nodded. “Yes, he is quite smitten. I think she likes him too, and who am I to stand in the way of true love.”
“I had no idea you were such a romantic Deathwalker.” Lady Emma smiled.
“And a good friend. I understand being protective, but he risked much with his brash behavior.” Lord Dormeir commented.
“He is being a protective brother. It is honorable.” Deathwalker replied.
“Oh, you are right as ever my friend, but you also know the law.”
“Yes, but Anthony does not seem one to enforce such a thing if it did come to blows.” Deathwalker answered.
“That be true enough. If you will excuse me. I must prepare and I am certain Captain Saunders will want to enter the competition as well. I must make sure he knows he has my approval.” Sebastian excused himself.
“Speaking about getting escorted to see the various festivities...” Lady Emma started to say.
Deathwalker held out his elbow. “Yes, my lady, it would be my pleasure to escort you.”
Lady Emma smiled and hooked her arm in with his. Her aunt, Duchess Lightheart, quickly approached. “Did I hear you say you are checking out the festivities? I approve.” As she said her last words, Duchess Lightheart took Deathwalker’s other arm.
Taking things in stride, he smiled and replied. “Why yes, it would be my pleasure to escort your both. Shall we see if King Alfheim wants to join us?”
Deathwalker inwardly chuckled at both of their expressions as King Alfheim spoke up. “How kind of you to offer, Deathwalker. Of course, we would like to join you.”
————
The city was filled with people. The atmosphere was jovial and filled with mirth. Minstrels could be heard playing in the streets, the very talented ones were offered coin to play near their shoppe.
All the inns were completely booked for those that wanted to stay in the city. Those that did not want to stay the night or could not find a room were happy to use the free portal service. Each connecting city found their inns completely booked and often business owners and merchants could be heard hoping this Timberfall festival turned into an annual event as it meant work for them and the many temporary workers they had to bring on.
Many set up small carts or stands near the massive coliseum arena. The area was filled with merchants. As people walked through the various rows, they could hear various people trying to hawk their wares.
“Get the finest wares in the kingdom!”
“Finest wares, ha! Do not listen to him, come to my stand! My goods are far better than anything he has!”
“Fresh kebabs! Get your fresh kebabs!”
“Ooo! Ooo! Let’s get some kebabs buddy!” Garry bobbed in excitement.
“I could eat. What are these kebabs you speak of?” Draconis replied.
“From the boss’s memories they are seasoned chunks of meat on a stick! He seemed to really enjoy it.” Garry answered.
“If Master likes them, they must be good, he has impeccable taste.” Draconis commented.
The duo made their way to the kebab stand. There was a young blonde girl working the stand and taking orders while an older gentleman was doing all the grilling. The smell coming from the grill had drawn a crowd.
Three of the male patrons were refusing to leave after they got their order. It was clear they were enamored by the young girl. One of them grabbed her by the arm.
“Come on, we will show you a good time!”
“No, I am not interested!” The girl tried to pull her arm away, but the ruffian had a firm grip.
“Hey, she said leave her alone!” The older man came to the girl’s defense.
Before he could get very far, one of his buddies hit him hard in the gut. He hit him so hard the man collapsed to his knees. Not expecting the sucker punch, the old man clutched his stomach and tried not to throw up his lunch.
The other patrons in line were about to protest when some invisible force grabbed them and moved all of them to the side.
“Thank you, Garry. I refused to wait in that line.” Draconis said.
The crowd was about to protest, but one look from the large red-haired man had them looking elsewhere. Nodding at the humanoids who were wise enough to find somewhere else to be, Draconis and Garry approached the commotion at the kebab stand.
The two that were not holding the girl drew weapons. “Looks like we have a couple of goody goodies!”
Draconis looked at Garry. “I think they are talking to us.”
Garry laughed. “Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! They think we are...” the Shadow Gazer used one of his eye stalks to wipe tear from his big eye. “I don’t even know where to begin with how wrong a statement that is!”
“Perhaps they are brain damaged. It is clear they are not very bright.” Draconis commented.
Garry looked at the one grabbing the girl. “If we were goody-goody then would we do this?”
With a mental command Garry grabbed the dagger sheathed at the man’s belt. In one quick motion lifted it in the air, causing the man to turn to look at it in shock, before the blade was in the man’s eye socket. He let go of the girl and moved his hand halfway to his head before he collapsed dead.
“How dare you!” One of the men called out as the remaining two rushed duo.
“Now he definitely has brain damage! Ha, ha, ha!” Garry laughed.
“Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! That was a good one Garry.” Draconis replied half paying attention to the two men rushing them. “Eh, guess it is my turn.”
Draconis moved like lightning. He grabbed each of the assailants’ sword arms with a vice grip. With both of his arms, he pulled the two together, driving their blades into each other. In one stroke, both men slam into each other, blade sticking out of them as they collapse to the ground dead.
“I keep forgetting how fragile these beings are.” Draconis commented as he looked down at the crumpled bodies.
“Yea, it’s great isn’t it. He, he, he! Now let’s get what we came here for.” Garry floated towards the kebab stand.
“Thank you, uh... good sirs.” The older cook bowed.
The little girl offered them several kebabs each. “Thank you for your help Mr Garry and Draconis.”
Draconis accepted the kebabs. “How do you know who we are little one?”
Garry took his kebabs with Telekinesis and chomped down on them sticks and all. “Yummm!”
“My name is Alyce. My grandfather sits on the Council and my mother works for the Adventurers’ guild.” Alyce waved to the older cook. “This is a friend of his Tookin. I call him Uncle Tookin. I was taught to look out for family and friends. So, when I found out he needed help I offered.”
“Huh? Did you say something? I stopped paying attention after I took a bit of these kebabs. Have you tried these things? They are delicious!” Draconis commented.
“Would you like some more? It is the least we can do for your help.” Tookin offered.
“We won’t say no!” Garry answered.
Multiple guards swarmed in and surrounded the group.
“Halt! Who killed these men?! You, there! You are under arrest for murder!” One of the guards ordered.
“Very good soldier.” A guard in more adorned armor said before turning his attention to Garry and Draconis. “I am Sergeant Chen of the Timberfall guard and you two are going away for a long time!”
“Sergeant, these two serve the duke.” Alyce chimed in.
“It does not matter! No one is above the law! Now be silent child!” Sergeant Chen barked.
“Do you think master would be upset if we killed all these men?” Draconis asked Garry.
“Eh. Maybe. The boss doesn’t like to waste resources.”
“How dare you threaten the guard! Men!” Sergeant Chen cried out and all the guards tightened their grips on their weapons and slowly marched closer.
“Guess we get to have a bit more fun after all, buddy. I’ll take the ones on the left; you take the ones on the right.” Garry commented.
“Okay, but I get to kill the annoying sergeant guy. I do not like the look of him. That and no one but our master gives me orders!” Draconis’ face held a wicked grin.
“HOLD! I order you all to stand DOWN!” Commander Willis entered the area.
“But-but Commander... these men threatened us and they killed those men!” Sergeant Chen protested.
“They killed those men defending innocent people. I saw it with my own eyes from the rooftop.” Commander Willis replied before turning his attention to Garry and Draconis. “Something told me to keep an eye on you two to make sure you did not get into any trouble.”
“Thank you, Commander. This man was not willing to listen to reason.” Alyce chimed in.
“Why you little shit!” Sergeant Chen snapped back before catching himself.
“Grrrrr! Watch your tongue, Sergeant! We do not speak to children in such a manner, especially to a family member of one of our council members. Follow me and let us have a conversation about proper etiquette befitting the town guard!” Commander Willis brokered no argument as he grabbed the sergeant by the back of the collar and started to haul him away.
Alyce stuck her tongue out at the sergeant as he was being dragged away.
‘Damn that brat! I almost rid ourselves of two of the duke’s pawns.’ Chen vowed he would make that little girl pay one day.
“Man, I was kind of looking forward to some more mayhem.” Garry said as he watched all the guards follow behind their squad leader.
Draconis just shrugged his shoulders. “Eh, let us eat some more of those kebabs.”
“Please follow us. It is our pleasure.” Tookin offered.
“Uncle Tookin is hoping to enter the cooking contest. If you could spread the word about how good his kebabs are I am sure it will help.” Alyce suggested.
“Sure! The boss loves good food.” Garry replied.
“Do you think we should save some for him?” Draconis asked.
“Nah. Boss said to enjoy ourselves and that he would be busy with festival matters all day.” Garry answered.
“You have a point. Then we should check out the melee competition. I am curious how some of these beings comport themselves in combat.” Draconis recommended.
“Sure, why not. I am always game to watch some blood and violence.” Garry said to Draconis as the two headed towards the melee competition after grabbing a few more kebabs.
Tookin watched the duo go. “Those two are rather scary.”
“Yea but they helped us out when they did not half to. Just as I expect people close to Deathwalker to be, noble and honorable.” Alyce smiled.
“I do believe you have a crush, my niece. You are far too young to worry about such things. You have a few more years before you are fifteen and eligible to marry. Focus on enjoying your childhood.” Tookin admonished.
“I think it is so old fashioned to have to wait so long.” Alyce pouted.
“Your grandfather was telling me that Deathwalker told him, that where he came from people could not marry until eighteen.” Tookin shared.
“Eighteen?! They must live much longer than we do. That is crazy. Ma and pa were married at sixteen. Do you know where Deathwalker comes from?” Alyce asked.
“No, he never said, but from what your grandfather said it seemed to be very far away. Come enough daydreaming, we have kebabs to sell or give away before I can enter the cooking contest. Every chef has to contribute a certain amount to the festival to help feed the people.” Tookin answered.