“OK, let’s meet the locals,” said Traveler. “They’ll be startled so act casual.”
How else does he think I’ll act? Maybe throw stones or do handstands? Silly boy.
Fortunately, the first group they came upon were young children playing beside the river. They were building sand castles and jumping into the shallows. A few of the older children were in the river up to their waists, ducking under the water then emerging like seals shaking their hair and blowing water at each other.
“Looks like some things never change,” said Traveler. “These kids could be playing beside the Rivanna River in Charlottesville. I guess they won’t be tubing down the river though, since inner tubes won’t be invented for another 1500 years.”
Glenda nodded as she focused on kids enjoying the river. It offered fun and needed cooling to the still hot day. I was a playful kid not that long ago. What happened? I guess M, Theo, and Traveler happened. All things considered, that’s still a pretty good tradeoff, and I’m still young and playful.
They did not try and hide their presence but walked casually toward the children. When they were spotted silence dampened the outbursts of laughter. The older children immediately came out of the river to stand with their younger siblings. They formed a protective shield wall while they assessed the potential threat presented by two strangers.
Glenda instinctively set the mood of “No problem here.” She gave the older boys her most endearing smile. “Can you direct us to your village? We got lost picking berries and need to find food and maybe shelter for the night.”
The tallest boy stood for a moment staring at Glenda. Her height, beauty, and composure held him fixed in place. Even in peasant clothes she was intimidating. He stuttered a reply before composing himself.
Traveler enjoyed the boy’s discomfort as he reflected on his own identical reaction to the Nordic princess when she came striding toward him at their first meeting. In this meeting she is giving off her most charming, warm look, while with me it was all icicles.
The boy cautiously approached her but was intimidated by her height and the even taller young man beside her. The man looked friendly but exuded power. The boy knew he had no chance against him if the man decided to best him. The boy’s confidence built slightly when he saw they carried no weapons beyond walking sticks.
Glenda reached into her sack and held out several large berries for the boy. His eyes lit up, without hesitation he took them and immediately pushed them into his mouth. Red juice flowed out and down his chin and he smiled.
Swallowing he answered, “These are very good, thank you. Please follow me.”
As an afterthought he added, “My father and older brothers are close by.” This was a veiled message that protective adult men were nearby so the two strangers should behave.
The boy proceeded to walk them away from the river on a well-cleared path. In minutes they saw the older men, and the children immediately ran toward them. One father looked up at the incoming pack, clapped his hands in a playful gesture, and then saw Traveler and Glenda. His face became fixed and he motioned his large sons to join him.
Chapter 56
Berries for Barter
This time Traveler took charge. It was a man’s world and he was clearly the leader to the farmers, not the red-haired girl. “It’s a glorious day for berry picking, but a dumb day for getting little lost! My sister and I got mixed up in the forest but fortunately found the river and now you.”
The three men relaxed as they sensed no threat. They saw both Traveler and Glenda were still young adults and they also noted the lack of weapons. They accepted how these two could easily get lost in a strange forest.
“May we look at the berries?” asked the oldest brother. He approached Traveler and motioned to his sack.
“Take a look,” said Traveler, “have some.” As the brother opened the sack Traveler noted his hands. They were large and callused with thick fingers. These guys don’t need to go to the health club to work out. They have muscles that have long since disappeared from our soft bodies.
The son removed one large berry and handed it to his father. The household pecking order was clear. The father bit it in half, smiled, and put the other half in his mouth. He simply nodded his head.
“We thought we could possibly barter these berries for dinner and shelter. We’re going to the fortress in the morning.”
The father’s mind was sorting out what to do. Being cautious toward any stranger, his instincts were to reject the offer. He also considered the message that they were headed to the fortress. He certainly did not want to offend the lords of the castle, particularly the duke’s advisor, referred to as the “mage”.
He found it interesting that these two were choosing to go to the fortress when few went unless summoned. At one time the duke was a welcoming host to all, now he was indisposed and his mage advisor was the sole contact. Few wanted any visit with his advisor.
Fear of offending the nobles of the castle ultimately prevailed and he accepted their offer. His fear was tempered by the two large sacks of outstanding berries.
“Yes, we can accommodate you, follow me. My wife will be pleased with the berries and company.” Smiling he added, “I see pies in our near future.” At the mention of pies, the three brothers and the younger children immediately had smiles cross their faces. Traveler and Glenda were now being labeled “good guys” by the father.
Chapter 57
Dinner Tales
Following the large farmers and young children on the path, Glenda and Traveler saw it was a relatively short path that quickly led to well-maintained common fields. Around the commons were set cottages of varying size. Livestock barns and storage structures were at one end of the field and separated from the homes. This village was a larger version of Hermann’s village.
The farmer led them to a large, two-level cottage set among similar but smaller homes. This cottage’s size declared the owners were of some importance and prosperity. The farmer opened the door and called out, “Martha, visitors with gifts.”
A pleasant appearing woman was immediately at the door. She sized up Traveler and Glenda then smiled. “Welcome, young travelers.”
Traveler extended the bags. “Please take these small gifts. I’m called Traveler and my sister is Glenda. We want to thank you and your husband for your hospitality to weary travelers.”
Smiling back at both young people Martha replied, “I believe I see berry pies for this evening’s meal. I bet Arthur has already tried a berry but I better double-check”. She sampled a berry, nodded and said, “Excellent! The fire is just right for baking. Let me get going on baking and dinner. Would you like to start with fresh milk?”
The two travelers rapidly nodded in acceptance and quickly had mugs of a cream-heavy milk in their hands. These farmers needed calories not diet pills. Plaque on arteries was a distant problem. Glenda took a deep sip and grinned at Martha, “Wonderful! This is saving my life.”
The woman smiled back as she studied Glenda, “You’re a very tall young lady and you need more meat on your bones. I’ll take care of you over dinner. Now would the two of you like to wash before dinner? You must be dirty after a long day’s walk on our dusty road.”
“You’re saving my life a second time,” exclaimed Glenda.
The woman returned in a minute with several large wool towels and a jar of the same white soap as the keeper had offered. Pointing to one of the older sons she said, “Lars, show them the washtub then leave.” Pausing a moment, she added, “Don’t try peeking at this young lady.”
Lars, the oldest boy from the creek turned a bright red while his brothers and father laughed. Traveler joined the group laugh as he noted that Glenda was developing red in her cheeks.
“Follow me please, the washtub is outside,” said Lars in a formal sounding voice. His voice had recently deepened and he had to practice controlling it. Occasionally it reverted to a squeak much to the laughter of his family.
&nb
sp; Glenda and Traveler followed Lars outside to a fence surrounding a large outdoor fire pit. Heat was rising off the pit toward a large clay pot which was elevated several feet above the pit. Steam was coming off the pot’s water as heat escaped to meet the cooling night air.
Resting on the ground adjacent to the bubbling pot was a large wooden tub. Steps led up to the top of the tub for easy entry. Looking down at the offered bath Glenda noted it was filled with clear water that looked cool at best. She saw there was no steam coming off the surface, Great, another polar bear soaking.
With obvious pride Lars explained, “We have the best soaking tub in the village. Our grandfather copied it from Roman design. To heat the water, pull this lever and hot water will pour down the clay pipe from the container on top of the fire.”
Glenda nodded, OK this may be a genuine soaking tub. Her gaze shifted to the fence with a skeptical look. Watching her Traveler said, “It’s not there for privacy, it’s to keep out small animals.” With a smirk he added, “Watch out for bears and farm boys.”
Unfazed she smiled, “I have had my quota of bear today, you can keep my share when it shows up. Keep the farm boys also.”
Traveler looked at Lars, “Lars, let’s head back. Glenda, leave the soap here for me.”
Watching the two head back to the house Glenda stuck a hand into the tub. The water was still surprisingly temperate. The sun is doing some good, she thought. She opened the sluice lever and watched steaming water flow down. There was a large wooden paddle leaning against the fence and she used it to mix the water.
After several more intakes of the hot water she stripped down and stepped into the deep tub. The water was perfect for bathing. She immediately ducked under the water, came up, and began to vigorously wash. She soaped her hair, stood up and lathered her body then submerged herself again.
She chose not to linger since Traveler was waiting. She also had endured enough heat during the day so that the idea of a long hot soak was less appealing. She dried herself off and put her clothes back on, wishing she could have washed them, but she still felt clean and refreshed.
Upon entering the house, she motioned to Traveler that his tub awaited. “That was fast, princess, thank you,” and he was out the door. Glenda noted Lars had no interest in helping Traveler find the tub.
The farmer and his wife exchanged looks at the word “princess”. The farmer mentally congratulated himself on a good decision. These two may be royalty simply traveling as commoners to size up the mood of the duke’s people. The farmer knew that with the ascension of the duke’s advisor, the mage, there was increasing oversight of the common folk by soldiers. The soldiers seemed to act more as spies than protectors.
When Traveler returned dinner was ready. They ate in two shifts. First the mother and father joined Traveler and Glenda. The best choices were for the heads of the family and guests. The older brothers understood this protocol and accepted it with good humor.
After the first round of eating was completed the second round became conversation. The farmer tried to put a casual spin on his words and their tone when he asked, “What brings you to the fortress?”
“Dogs,” replied Traveler, “specifically a new litter that Hermann the innkeeper’s alpha male Trajan has sired. Trajan is easily the largest dog I have ever encountered. His pups will be exceptional. We have been sent to bargain for one, possibly a female for breeding. The duke is aware, of course, of these recent Trajan additions and may decide to claim them all. We’ll find out our chances to buy one when we meet him.”
Glenda added, “These pups are already huge. You could put a saddle on them,” and she laughed. Both the farmer and his wife accepted the stated mission. They knew Karl the duke’s keeper bred champion dogs for fighting and protection. The litters were famous across regional boundaries. The duke maintained cordial relations with his peers by presenting pups as presents.
They also looked at Glenda, trying to remain casual. Once washed her hair was a cascading flow of colors. Her naturally beautiful face had a perfect frame to bring out its fine features.
The parents saw their sons were fascinated by the tall girl. “She is a princess, boys, don’t begin to think about her,” they would later tell their sons. “She may be a future bride for the duke.” But hopefully not his advisor, they thought but never said the words out loud.
“Now comes the pie,” said the mother as she rose up. She had put one pie to cool on the table and now cut it into four portions. A single portion filled their bowls. Eating was serious business and pies were unexpected treats. The mother and father settled into their shares and Traveler and Glenda followed suit. Despite the portion size all bowls were scooped clean in a matter of minutes.
Traveler stretched, suppressed a burp, only to hear the farmer shake the room with his own release. The mother followed suit as they grinned at each other. Glenda stopped a grimace from appearing.
“Thank you for a wonderful dinner!” said Traveler, with supporting thanks from Glenda. “But I’m beat. We may leave very early tomorrow so we need our sleep now. May we retire?”
The farmer stood up and the mother said, “Follow Helmuth. We have cleared out the older boys’ bedroom. The covers are clean. The room is at the end of the hall, so it’s quiet.”
Traveler nodded and spoke to the displaced sons, “Thank you, gentlemen, for generously giving up your room. My sister and I are in your debt.” The sons grinned and gave a small bow to Traveler and deeper bows to Glenda. The older sons had watched their parents and understood these two travelers were special.
Once they arrived at their room the farmer opened the door. There were candles lit beside each bed. “Sleep well. Pleasant dreams and think well of us.” Traveler and Glenda knew the last statement was a request that they tell the duke about the hospitality that had been extended to them.
Once they heard the footsteps recede Traveler said, “We need to get out of Dodge before the sun is up. These farmers are early risers and we need to be gone before they ask more questions.”
“Agreed, big boy, just don’t fuss when I wake you up.”
Chapter 58
The Castle Road
True to her warning, Glenda woke before the night owls had settled down and before the roosters crowed. It was dark but her internal clock said it was time to put a few early miles on their boots. She gave Traveler a soft shake and was amused as he grabbed his pillow. “Rise and shine, big boy, can’t sleep the morning away.”
“I just lay down, Morpheus was spinning a great tale when you broke it.”
“That’s a very sad ending to your tale. You can get the rest of his tale tonight. Let’s move out, and please carry your boots, Mr Stealth.”
They walked on tiptoes past the other rooms. Once downstairs they sat by the tired fire and pulled on their boots. Their sacks were on the table and they realized their carrying sacks were resupplied. “What a great family,” said Glenda as she put the sack’s belt over her shoulder.
They found the door had a simple latch and they were outside in a moment. Traveler quietly shut the door and they were back on the path leading to the castle road. Traveler started to talk and Glenda gave him the universal signal to be quiet with a finger on her lips and whispered, “Don’t talk for a while. There are sleeping dogs, let’s be sure they remain quiet.” Traveler immediately nodded.
After ten minutes Glenda said, “It’s OK now. Those sleeping dogs will lie there until the roosters blow their bugles. Can you see OK to walk?”
Traveler grunted, “Not easily. These potholes are a minefield, and I’m sleepwalking. Let’s go slowly until the sun shows up.” Traveler used his walking stick and tapped the road in front.
Glenda decided to follow a few steps behind him. This is the blind leading the blind, she thought. Who would figure it’s this pitch black even on the road? “Who stole the moon?” Glenda asked.
“I’m blaming the trees,” answered Traveler. “They are live growing skyscrapers. They�
��re so crazy tall that sunlight is a fugitive trying to break out of tree jail.”
Half an hour passed before the first light beam escaped the tree jail and came hustling up the road. Where one escaping beam came, many comrades quickly followed. Now the trees were lit up and the morning sun claimed the day.
The day was glorious. The temperature had warmed up enough that walking was a delight. They found a comfortable walking pace and became pilgrims heading to their meeting with fate.
The road began a soft incline, then made a turn onto a steeper rise. In the distance was the mighty stone structure they had first observed from the treetop crow’s nest. Some would call it a castle, but “fortress” was a better description. Details were lost in the covering morning fog.
As they got closer and the fog burned off, battlements and turrets appeared across the top perimeter. The dark stone walls climbed from the ground and rose over fifty feet. Given their height Traveler knew the walls were extremely thick to support the wall’s weight. They might be forty feet thick at their base, he thought. This was a fortress which could withstand the strongest attacks.
As a further defense the wide river curved around the fortress. The moat was more than a wide, water-filled trench, it was a significant river flowing with power.
The road advanced to meet a wide bridge that crossed the river. Once across the river the road continued toward a large entrance cut into the base of the fortress. The entry was a deep tunnel of stone with an iron gate securing the front. The gate was closed, announcing that the fortress was not currently accepting visitors.
Traveler shook his head in admiration. “Wow! This place looks like it’s built to withstand any attack. Look at how high the walls go. I bet there is a road on top of the walls; they can move small armies quickly to defend against any point of attack.”
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