SafeHaven

by Xander Jade

  “Hmm… Stan, Gordon, have your men start planning and follow me.”

  They did as commanded. We walked towards my barn and saw a group that looked like mages concentrating on something as we came up.

  “Frank, what’s up?”

  “Ah, boss, we are just perplexed. A ward on that barn is redirecting people away from it. If anyone tries to open those doors, they get zapped with magic, Believe me, it hurts. We weren’t trying to be sneaky, but curious to why there’s a ward on this barn. …Whoever put the ward there was very powerful; none of us can get through it or even duplicate it. Do you know what’s in there?”

  Cass, Tia, Sasha, and Soph were walking over from the cabin to our location.

  “Yes, evidently my grandfather had someone put that ward there. It protects and preserves the objects in the barn.”

  Frank replied, “How do you know? Have you been in there?”

  I nodded but Cass spoke up for me, “Yes, the only person that can get in is Max. It’s linked to his bloodline.”

  They were very confused by this statement, so I nodded to avoid any negative remarks and said quickly, “Yes, but I can take individuals in if they hold onto me, like a chain.”

  “Really? That’s remarkable. I don’t think I have ever seen this kind of magic before,” Frank said as he continued to concentrate on the barn’s ward.

  I bowed and said, “Ladies, I’m glad to see you.” They giggled and smiled at me; I winked at them and gestured for them to come to me. “Let’s give them a demonstration.”

  I walked over to the doors, felt the tingling sensation over my body, and opened them. Nothing could be seen through the doors, you had to go in to see the objects inside, and this no doubt frustrated the curious onlookers.

  “Ladies, hold my arms or hands, and don’t be afraid when you feel the ward search you. It will feel like needles pricking you, but it will pass quickly.”

  They came to me and grabbed my flesh. I walked slowly into the barn. I heard gasps from the girls, and the people outside when we disappeared. When we cleared the threshold, the girls relaxed, but Soph and Tia gasped again when they saw what was inside. I chuckled at the looks they had on their faces. Of course, Cass and Sasha had already seen it, but were still awed by the site.

  “What is this place, Max? It looked shabby on the outside, but on the inside, it’s well made and preserved. Someone very powerful did this. All these tools and equipment, where did all of this come from?” Tia asked.

  “My grandfather, but I’m sure he had help. I don’t know what he was preparing for, but this isn’t the only level. We found it when I first came here. Just look around, I’m going to get Gordon and Stan to come in.”

  They nodded and I went back outside. They were surprised when I just appeared through the double doors.

  “Woah, that was awesome!” Gordon exclaimed.

  “Gordon, Stan, let’s go. I need to show you some things inside. Hold on to my hands and try not to whimper when the ward hits you.”

  I chuckled at the last of my statement, bringing them through the ward and they didn’t do too badly.

  “What the hell?”

  “How is this possible?”

  Gordon and Stan were shocked at what they saw inside.

  “Tools and equipment. Stan, are these what you needed?”

  He nodded, but didn’t speak, so I kept on talking, “My grandfather had this made, not sure what was going on that he needed this, but I’m glad it’s here.”

  They agreed and Stan went to pick out what he thought they needed.

  “I know we won’t have everything, but we have silver to get anything else from town. Stan, get what you need and place it by the doors. We will chain together to get this stuff out.” We helped him place equipment by the doors, and when he was ready, we took it all outside.

  “Umm… where did that stuff come from?” Frank asked

  I smiled. “Magic. Everyone needs to grab an item and follow Stan.”

  He chuckled and we hauled the items to where Stan needed them. My ladies walked with me and chatted about their day. I didn’t really pay attention to what they were saying. Most of it was chick stuff. I just smiled and nodded at the appropriate time. We got to our destination and unloaded our items to the builders. They discussed the outline that Gordon had come up with.

  “Frank and Jacob, go get the rest of my circle. Also, get Val. We need to have a meeting.”

  They bowed and left. Ten minutes later, we were standing in a clearing on the outskirts of the forest.

  “Okay, let’s talk about leadership and come up with a ranking system. My ladies and I will be ranked on the top. They will be with me most of the time unless they have other duties to take care of. Gordon, you’re my right-hand man and in charge when I’m not here. Therefore, you’ll be my Duke, and make decisions that will affect the lives here.”

  Noticing he went pale after I promoted him, I smiled and continued, “If that isn’t what you want, I need to know now.”

  “Umm… I-I-I don’t know what to say, Max. All my life I knew I wasn’t going to take over Oakenshore, but I didn’t really care to. I was content to marry into some other duchy, so I wasn’t expecting anything big. What you are asking is a big deal, and I will need to think on it.” He spoke with a low voice, like he was almost afraid that it was a dream.

  I slapped him on the back. “Take all the time you need, I just need to know before we leave, okay?”

  He nodded and I cackled at his demeanor. It was a no brainer, he was used to the political shit, and I was happy to give it to him. I glanced around the group to see everyone was smiling, encouraging him.

  “Let’s continue as if Gordon has taken the role and discuss what will be needed for the mages, builders, trade workers, merchants, and so on. Any ideas?”

  Gordon responded, “Eventually, we will need to create guilds. Mages, traders, and so forth. Then, a council will be needed for each guild.”

  “Damn, sounds complicated, good thing you’re in charge of that.” I chuckled as he gave me a threatening stare. “Gordon, the others here will help you with this." We conversed about how the councils would be made and how many would serve on them. Finally I said, "Anything else that needs discussing?

  Jacob spoke up, “What did you mean when you said, ‘before we leave’? What are your plans, boss?”

  Everyone stared at me, wanting clarification.

  “All right, I need to tell you what the forest protectors told me since everyone is here. When we met in the forest…” I told them about the meeting and what would need to happen when things get settled down.

  No one spoke for a couple minutes until Cass said, “When are you planning on leaving?”

  I answered, “Sigmus wants to leave soon, my first stop will be in the Kingdom of Mair.”

  That statement brought up shouts and disagreements.

  “No way in hell are you going there on your own,” Sasha spat.

  That set off a chorus of agreements. I felt the trio come up and stop.

  Taking a breath, I responded, “I didn’t say that. Although, no one in their right mind would take on a siba, kodiak, and a fire elemental.”

  The three came into view then and everyone gasped when Sigmus stopped by me and sat down. No one moved as the elemental scanned the faces around.

  ‘Tough crowd.’ He chuckled.

  They grumbled and nodded after calming down.

  “When it comes time to set out, I will take a group that can get in and out without too much attention. At that time, we will discuss this in detail, and you can yell at me then. Now, if there isn’t anything else? I need to talk to my ladies.”

  I bowed my head and had the ladies follow me, Elwin and Pelleus left as well. It was getting late, so we made our way to the cabin for some alone time. Sigmus followed and when out of sight of the meeting, I stopped and took off my top then waited. The elemental immediately turned into liquid and started to ascend my body.

&
nbsp; “Goddess, that is fucking eerie,” Cass gasped out.

  “I agree,” Val shuddered.

  Sasha and Leena shook their heads, but Elwin said, “That shit was awesome, boss!”

  Pelleus grinned as he spoke, “Wonder what the other elementals will do when they bond to you?”

  The ladies glanced at each other before walking again. I put my top back on and joined them, ending up in our cabin.

  “Cabin looks great ladies, thank you for cleaning it up.”

  They smiled at me as we got comfortable.

  “I know it’s hectic right now, but soon it will be chaotic. Things are about to change drastically, and I want to make sure you’re aware. Any input?”

  “What exactly is the plan for our home?” Tia asked.

  “Basically, I want a fortress built. It will be dependable, defendable, and strong. The fort will be surrounded by walls with watchtowers, bow men and women, and we will cater to any who are in need.”

  “Max, are you expecting trouble?” Sasha asked.

  I thought about it and nodded, “Soon, they will know who freed those people, and then will try to find those responsible That’s why everyone that can, will be training each day. I know it will take time to develop, but we need to get started now.”

  “Yes, but you can’t put this all on your shoulders. I know you have massive ones, but not to carry everyone. You’ll have to find out who can train, then delegate. Let Gordon and his crew handle the day-to-day things. That’s right up their alley, and he will get the job done. I’m glad he’s here and offering to help,” Cass replied.

  I nodded and got up to get some water and clear my head. The girls were chatting about future things when I came back to sit down, so I listened to them for a few minutes, but then decided to get in on the conversation.

  “Cass, Tia, and Val will be trainers in combat starting tomorrow. Get to know who has the skills, then separate those to teach others.”

  “Okay, what do you want us to start with?” Cass asked.

  “Hand to hand, blades, and bows.” I looked at Tia. “I’m assuming your people know the bow?”

  She nodded and replied, “Of course, some better than others, but everyone knows the basics.”

  “Hmm… I want everyone to have a bow, and whatever blade they are comfortable with. If they are proficient in all, then give them all. Elwin, Leena, and Pelleus are proficient as well, they will also be in your classes. I will meet with the mages tomorrow to get them started with the trees and metal. They should be fine with all the ore we retrieved from the mine to equip everyone. If not, we can send people to retrieve more. The lumber will be given to us from a location the Leshy provides.”

  “What about me?” Soph asked.

  “I know you can brawl and kill, but I want you to train with Tia in stealth and blades. When you’re done with her then you and I will spar. My ladies will know every weapon available and be deadly with them. Tia, you and I will spar later on as well.”

  Soph pouted a little but nodded after thinking it over.

  Tia nodded and smirked. “Can’t wait sweetheart. I will bring my A-game.”

  “That’s all I ask. Sasha, I want you to be in charge of getting the mages situated and to be the head when it comes to finding the leads of each sphere. I want mages to start teaching as well. Those in each tier need to have training classes, everyone needs to build up stamina for what is coming.”

  “Okay. I’ll need others to help though,” Sasha responded with narrowed eyes.

  “Of course, you can decide on that. You’ve met Frank and Jacob, they’re reliable, so get them to help out if you want. My goal is to find out who will march with us when we leave for any reason and those who will be here to guard or help out in any areas needed. Farming, building, etc.”

  She smiled and said, “Thank you, hon. I’ll do my best.”

  I nodded and took a breath, then glanced over at Tia. “Before I forget, I don’t need to know what your mysterious background is unless it’s a danger to us, but you need to tell the girls about your family and status.”

  Cass spoke up, “We’ve already discussed it, and from what she told us, it won’t hinder your plans.”

  “Hmm… will this information come to bite me in the ass later? Will your people cause trouble?”

  Tia looked uncomfortable but replied, “My people will be upset, yes, but I will handle that when the time comes. Just know that I will never leave your side and want to be yours.”

  I thought about it for a few moments, her people were generally pretty particular about who they should form relationships with. She was putting herself and us in a difficult position.

  I sighed loudly. “Tia, Morgy is probably starting shit as we speak. What will you have me do when your people come for you? Fight them? Let them take you away?”

  Tia whispered, “I don’t want you to fight them, but I also won’t leave you. When that time comes, we’ll decide how to proceed. Does that suffice for now?”

  I took a deep breath and responded, “It does, but we are on the outskirts of your lands. Your people will be here soon, so I will plan accordingly.” She nodded and I continued, “Shit, just one more thing I’ll have to deal with. Okay, I’m headed to tell Gordon that we need to add on more rooms to the cabin. We have additional guests that will sleep here, so I will grab some bedrolls that we have stored in the barn. Tonight, we will have a couple sleep on the floor. I’ll see if he wants to crash here as well.”

  I walked out of the cabin to find it was dark out, so I tracked down some of his entourage who pointed out where he was. He was talking to some others I didn’t recognize. He smiled when he saw me.

  “Gordon, I’m about to crash, but you can sleep in the cabin if you want. It will be tight quarters, though.”

  “Thanks Max, I will take you up on that tonight.”

  I nodded and left back towards the barn to get the extra bedrolls. When finishing that task, I brought them into the cabin and handed all of them to Tia and Soph. They were going to sleep in the other rooms. When I walked into my room, I noticed someone already under the bed covers. I took my clothes off, threw them onto the floor and pulled the covers back to find two beautiful women taking up space, staring at me.

  Smiling Cass whispered, “My love, I’m sorry, but we couldn’t help ourselves.”

  I grinned back at her. “I’m assuming you’re completely naked.”

  She pulled back the covers to display their immaculate bodies and giggled. I got into the bed and wrapped my arms around them. We started kissing passionately, arms roaming over each other’s bodies, and devouring each other. We tried to keep the noise down, but when Cass and Val were in the moment, they let go. Tonight wasn’t any different, and I imagine everyone within two miles heard their orgasms.

  Chapter 6

  “Concentrate, Princess Corisande! You have to keep your mind focused or the spell will not form.”

  “UGH! I’m sorry, Mage Teresa,” Cori apologized. “My mind is elsewhere. And please, call me Cori.”

  “Your Highness, I cannot do that. If someone hears that from my mouth, who knows what would happen if your parents found out.”

  Cori knew what would happen, the woman would be reprimanded and be given some god-awful task to do. She sighed and nodded.

  Mage Teresa smiled at the young woman. She being in her forties knew that the princess was at marrying age. She advised, “We will be done here shortly so that you can get back to speaking with the young noblemen. I saw that Duke Seville and his family are here. Tristen is a handsome young man.”

  “That’s the least of my worries at the moment,” Cori scoffed.

  “Really? I would think that would be at the front of your mind at your age.”

  “Mage Teresa, I’m trying to get better with my magic so I can defend myself and my family when the time comes.”

  “There’s no need for that,” a male voice spoke out from behind them.

  Both women turned to s
ee it was the young Lord Tristen. The king, queen, Estelle, and the Duke’s family were also at the Whitehurst Castle Barrack’s training field, watching them.

  He continued, “I will protect you Princess Corisande. No need for all this practice.”

  King William and Queen Rebecca smirked at his statement, knowing that was definitely the wrong thing to say. Duke Gary Seville and his wife Mara were watching the scene as well.

  Cori almost blurted out something hurtful, but caught herself and said, “Lord Tristen, it’s nice to see you and your family again. How long has it been now? Two years?” Not long enough, she said to herself.

  “Two long years. We wanted to come visit and see how you are doing after your near-death experience.”

  “I’m getting along fine,” Cori replied.

  “I wish that I could’ve been there to fight off those orcs,” Tristen stated. “The casualties would’ve been a lot lower.”

  Cori looked at the young man in front of her. He was a year older than her but she didn’t know that he could fight. “You know how to wield a sword?”

  “Oh, yes,” he smiled. “Been training since I was ten.”

  The princess almost rolled her eyes at the smug look he gave her. “And how many battles have you been in?”

  Tristen’s cheeks went pink. “Well, uh, none yet.”

  She fought the urge to cover her eyes and sighed. “Then how would you know if our casualties would’ve been lower?”

  Estelle was holding in her giggles at her sister’s expression. The boy was trying so hard to impress her.

  “Because my trainer says that I’m the best he’s ever trained,” Tristen bellowed. “Those orcs wouldn’t have stood a chance!”

  Yeah, and the guy probably told you that because he was being paid to train you. “Well, that’s in the past now.”

  “Indeed,” he responded. “Um… can I help with anything?”

  Cori wanted to say what was really on her mind, but she held her tongue knowing that her parents set this up. The suitor list kept getting longer and she hadn’t had any desire to be wooed. Before long, they would make a choice for her. Stupid politics.