"It was the Eye of Dreams," Lannon explained. "I wanted to help, but I wasn't able to wake up." Even as he spoke, he knew that some of the Knights would think his absence from the combat was cowardly. Many regarded Lannon as a hero, but some perceived him as a weakling who failed to live up to his potential and who had sympathy for the enemy. Taris Warhawk and Furlus Goblincrusher were amongst those who felt Lannon was a courageous warrior and a great asset to Dremlock, while Trenton often seemed to doubt him.
"The Eye of Dreams," said Trenton, with a disdainful expression. "Well, I hope that Eye of Dreams business doesn't keep you out of every battle. We didn't bring you to Dremlock to sleep through the conflicts."
"Of course not," said Lannon, unable to keep the irritation out of his voice. "When have I ever shied away from combat?"
Trenton frowned. "You have a bit of a reputation for disliking violence, Lannon. You're not someone most consider to be an eager warrior."
"Lannon doesn't spare Goblins," said Jerret. "You should know that by now, Trenton. Give him a bit of slack."
Lannon smiled at Jerret in gratitude.
"People change," said Trenton. "They grow weary of battle and lose their nerve. I've seen it happen many times." Muttering to himself, he walked away.
"Annoying as ever," Jerret snarled, watching Trenton depart. "Why can't he just keep his mouth shut and go about his business?"
Aldreya smiled at Lannon. "You're definitely no coward, my friend. It takes guts to do what you did at Old Hammer Hall and..." She chose not to speak of Timlin's death.
"You're the best fighter in camp, Lannon," said Galvia. "That's a fact. Not even Furlus could defeat you in battle."
"I don't know about that," Lannon mumbled, his face growing warm with embarrassment. "I doubt I would be a match for Furlus."
Galvia laughed. "Maybe not, but you get the point. You're a courageous warrior, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise."
"This has nothing to do with courage," said Jace, giving Lannon's shoulder a friendly shake. "This has to do with sorcery--the Eye of Dreams." He lowered his voice and added, "As a sorcerer himself, Trenton should know better, but I think he enjoys being sullen and antagonistic. I guess we all need ways to amuse ourselves."
"Where is Taris?" asked Lannon, feeling uncomfortable with all the scrutiny. "I should talk to him right away."
"Taris has returned to his tent," Jace said. "He seemed in a foul mood, and was dragging our good prince along by his cloak."
"Perhaps you should wait," said Jerret, with a chuckle. "Vannas is overdue for a tongue lashing and I don't want you to interrupt it."
Lannon shook his head. "This is too important."
***
When Lannon stepped into Taris' tent, the Birlote sorcerer and Prince Vannas were drinking tea. Taris motioned for Lannon to sit, and then poured him a cup. After Lannon had seated himself, Taris waved his hand in Lannon's direction and Lannon's cloak dried instantly, steam filling the tent.
"I'm getting better at the use of fire," said Taris, with a smile. He handed Lannon his tea. "It has taken a long time and a lot of hard work to master it, but as you can see, the rewards are great."
"I still can't even make a blade burn," Lannon muttered.
Taris shrugged. "It is not your way. None of the Dark Watchmen were adept at the use of fire. They carried matches with them."
"Vorden was able to dry my cloak just as easily," said Lannon, wondering if Vorden's sorcery rivaled that of the Tower Master.
"His connection to fire is still very strong," said Taris. "The demon in the Hand of Tharnin was like a raging furnace--and the flames linger in Vorden's soul. Eventually, that ability of his should diminish."
Prince Vannas sat with his head bowed, looking sullen. He'd barely glanced at Lannon. His teacup was still full.
"Lannon, before you tell me why you've come," said Taris, "I want to take a moment to lecture the two of you. I have already chastised the prince for putting himself in danger and risking losing the White Flamestone. You are both obligated to take extraordinary measures to protect yourselves. You're not simple Knights, but vital elements to the survival of Dremlock Kingdom."
"Have I done something wrong, Master Taris?" asked Lannon.
"No, this is just a lecture," said Taris. "Something you both need to hear."
"But Lothrin has put me on edge," said Vannas. "He continues to question me in private about my qualifications to wield the Flamestone. He accuses me of being an unfit warrior. While it's true that half the time I dread using the gem, the other half I take great pride and even joy in it. I am somewhat weary and confused, but I still have the will to fight for Dremlock."
This was news to Lannon. He'd assumed the issue between Vannas and Lothrin was settled and that they were getting along fine.
Taris nodded. "Lothrin doesn't trust you. He has seen how the Flamestone has affected you, and it worries him. Perhaps he feels he has a stronger mind than you and should therefore be the one who possesses the gem."
"That's exactly right," Vannas said, with a tired sigh. "He keeps hinting that I should give it to him, that it would be for my own good. He believes I am losing myself to it, like Timlin Woodmaster did to the Black Flamestone. And truth be told, sometimes I wonder if he's right. Sometimes I don't know who I am anymore. I hate to part with the Flamestone for even a moment, but I often wonder if I should get rid of it and never look upon it again."
"The vast power has changed you," said Taris, "on the deepest levels. It is more power than a mortal was meant to handle--especially so suddenly. There are real risks to wielding it. But Dremlock Kingdom desperately needs you, young Knight. You were the one chosen by the Divine Essence, and you must find a way to overcome your fears and doubts. Not even Lothrin can unlock the Flamestone's power to the degree that you are capable of. If we're going to win this war against the Deep Shadow, we need you to act like Olzet Ka did with the Crimson Flamestone so long ago when he drove the Barloak demons back to Tharnin."
"But Olzet Ka was a mighty king," said Vannas, "and I am just a young prince. He was also a great Wizard, whereas I know little of the ways of magic. How could I ever hope to do what he did?"
Lannon was impressed. Seldom did he hear Vannas express such doubts. Usually the prince was arrogant to the extreme. Lannon could relate to Vannas' concerns, for he felt similar pressure in having to live up to the lofty standards of the Dark Watchmen.
"Olzet Ka wasn't perfect," said Taris. "He had flaws and weaknesses, and he doubted himself at times. But he held together and did what needed to be done. That is all Dremlock asks of you, oh prince--that you compose yourself long enough for us to strike a solid blow to the Deep Shadow."
Vannas nodded. "I just wish Lothrin would leave me alone. Can you talk to him, Master Taris? Tell him to mind his own affairs?"
"I could," said Taris, "but Lothrin is part of the Divine Shield and is allowed to have his say. It would be a violation of the Sacred Laws for me to silence him. If it bothers you so much, simply ignore him."
Vannas glanced at Lannon. "What about you? Lothrin respects you. Can you get him to leave me be?"
Lannon hesitated, feeling uncomfortable for being put on the spot. "I'm not sure. We can certainly discuss the issue amongst ourselves, but Aldreya is actually in charge of our group, in case you've forgotten."
Taris nodded. "Yes, take the issue to Aldreya, Vannas. Let her decide how to proceed. This will be a good test for her leadership. From now on you young Knights will be called...the Grey Keepers, in relation to Lannon's connection with the Dark Watchmen. The Grey Keepers were servants and assistants of the Watchmen. Prince Vannas, you will be second in command, and Lannon will be third. Bear in mind that you will be bound by the Sacred Laws."
Vannas frowned. "If we are Lannon's assistants, why then is he not in charge? Won't it appear that you are favoring Birlotes?"
Lannon said nothing, but he was grateful Vannas had asked that question. His position as third in co
mmand seemed illogical.
"Perhaps," said Taris, shrugging. "As a Dark Watchman, Lannon already has prominence and authority amongst the Divine Knights. And with that comes increased responsibility." He fixed his gaze on Lannon. "I don't want you to bear too many burdens right now. And like it or not, Vannas and Aldreya are members of the royal family and require some amount of special treatment. They were trained from birth in understanding battle tactics and leadership. Also, Aldreya is my apprentice, and I see her more often than the rest of you. I am able to discuss secrets with her that are forbidden to others. Therefore, she is best suited to lead this group."
Lannon bowed. "That's fine, Master Taris. I don't mind being third in command. I agree that Prince Vannas and Aldreya should be ranked above me. I haven't had a fraction of the training they have had."
Taris smiled. "With that attitude, Lannon, you will go far in life. Just bear in mind that even though you are third in command, the others are still Grey Keepers and your assistants. That means they must work with you as needed for the good of Dremlock. They must defend your life. You are the core of the group, Lannon."
"But not the leader," mused Vannas.
"You will find," said Taris, "that leadership by appointment isn't everything. On the battlefield, many Knights will rally around one who is not the official leader but who fights valiantly and inspires deep loyalty. It is your loyalty to Lannon--not your obedience--that makes him the core of the group."
"Of course," said Vannas. "I will always look after my good friend, to my last breath."
"Furthermore, Lannon," Taris went on, "as Grey Keepers your friends may accompany you wherever you go, including the Watchmen's Keep. That fortress is now their home as well. As a Tower Master of Dremlock, and first in command of this battalion, I have the authority to make this official. Tell the others what I've told you here."
"Do we need to swear an oath?" asked Vannas.
"Not at this time," said Taris. "By my command, you are now Grey Keepers. If one of you wishes to leave the group--aside from you, Lannon--you may state your case to Furlus or myself and we may grant your request."
"Thank you, Master Taris," said Lannon, wishing this topic would end so he could discuss the incident with the Wolf. His stomach was unsettled with anxiety over the encounter and he longed for Taris' advice.
Taris gazed sternly at Lannon. "Now you may tell me what's on your mind. What did the Eye of Dreams show you this time?"
"How did you know?" asked Lannon. He realized it was a stupid question. This was Taris Warhawk, the greatest sorcerer outside of Borenthia. Lannon went on to describe the encounter in detail. But he couldn't remember something the Wolf had told him about food. Had the Wolf been hungry? Lannon wasn't sure. The memory was too foggy to unlock.
"A talking Wolf," mused Vannas.
"It didn't actually talk," said Lannon. "At least not with its mouth. The words seemed to come from around me...or maybe inside my head."
"Another intelligent Goblin," said Taris, "only this one is very ancient and powerful. Great misfortune has befallen you, Lannon, to attract a beast like this. It won't be easy to defeat."
"Surely the White Flamestone can kill it," said Vannas.
"It is not that simple," said Taris. "A Goblin like this uses stealth and cunning. It is as swift as the wind and as quiet as a shadow. This is certainly one of the most dangerous foes we have ever faced--and just like the Great Dragon and the Tharnin Specter, it is unstable. No doubt our enemies can barely control it. It appears they haven't yet learned their lesson in dealing with such monsters."
"What can I do?" asked Lannon.
"If it attacks," said Taris, "your best hope is to elude it. It may be fast, but so are you. Don't attempt to fight it--until you feel confident you can win. I will consult with Jace and try to devise a trap for it. If we can get it in a solid snare, we can kill it. This will require much thought and meditation."
"The Specter nearly destroyed the Blood Legion," said Lannon. "Why would they be so foolish in unleashing another unstable creature?"
Taris shrugged. "I don't know, but we must bear in mind that the Blood Legion isn't our greatest threat. It is Bellis that could defeat us in the long run. The Blood Legion has already been severely damaged by its own folly and has nothing to lose by taking another gamble. And it appears the once proud Legion is now nothing but a smaller extension of Bellis anyway--slaves to the king."
"Perhaps a few more guards are needed," said Lannon, "with the Wolf creeping about. Maybe it would be wise to surround our tent with them."
Taris shook his head. "More guards are not the answer, Lannon. The Wolf would scatter them like leaves, if it chose to attack. It is fear of the White Flamestone that keeps it at bay, which is why I want Prince Vannas at your side at all times until we can set a worthy trap."
Vannas bowed. "I shall be Lannon's shadow, Master Taris."
"Have some more tea," said Taris. "Take a moment to relax before you return to your tent. We have much to ponder, but it can wait. Tomorrow we ride for Kalamede, a dangerous city were Divine Knights are not always respected."
"Will the Wolf kill me, Master Taris?" asked Lannon. The words seemed to slip out on their own.
Taris hesitated, then said, "A creature like that is not satisfied to simply kill one enemy. It will try to bring everyone to ruin. When it said it was seeking your slow and bitter destruction, it likely meant exactly that. But you're a Dark Watchman now, Lannon, and you must learn to outsmart even your most cunning foes. You must make the Deep Shadow tremble in terror at the mention of your name or the sight of your blade clearing its sheath."
Chapter 3: A Spy in Dremlock
It was a quiet, cold evening at Dremlock Kingdom. The Temple fireplace was lit, and flickering shadows bobbed and weaved on the walls. Cordus Landsaver stood with his back to the altar, and the rest of the High Council sat on benches. The Lord Knight gazed at the tense faces bathed in the crimson glow of Birlote torches, and once again he wished his Tower Masters were present. He often felt alone and outnumbered lately. The Temple setting helped ease his mind, however. This was where Dremlock conducted its most secret meetings, with the solitary building and thick stone walls making any attempt at spying nearly impossible. And there was no area of Dremlock Cordus loved more than the Sacred Temple. This was where he felt most at home and closest to Dremlock's god and protector, the Divine Essence that lay below the stone floor in its chamber of crystal.
"Bellis will attack us again," said Cordus. "Only a fool would believe otherwise. This meeting is about how best to prepare for it."
"The answer is simple," said Krissana Windsword. "To have any chance of defending this kingdom against Bellis, we need the White Flamestone. It is folly to have it roaming around. It should be kept within these walls." She gazed sternly at Cordus with her striking green eyes. A famed archer and a member of the royal family, her youthful appearance concealed her true age (which was greater than that of most living Noracks) and experience. She wore a green cloak of Birlote silk, and her silver hair was set in elegant braids.
As Krissana gazed at Cordus, he could feel the weight of the Birlote empire bearing down him on. Dremlock depended on the Birlotes for many resources, and Krissana's opinion was never to be taken lightly. He shifted about uncomfortably, then glanced at Vesselin Hopebringer.
"I very much agree," said Vesselin, the ancient Lord of the White Knights. "It should be brought here at once, along with the Hand of Tharnin and the Black Flamestone. If Taris Warhawk's army is defeated, those items will end up in enemy hands--and then I fear Dremlock will be doomed."
"We can send forth our Dark Knights to aid Taris," said Barlow Whitesword, yawning. The stocky, balding warrior and Lord of the Brown Knights looked weary this evening. He'd laid his shield (which he always carried with him at night) on the floor, and he slouched on the bench. "Why keep some of our most powerful fighters down in the mines? These Grey Dwarves are masters of siege warfare and combat tactics. Th
ey are best used for attack, and should be sent forth."
"I strongly disagree," said Krissana. "The Dark Knights are needed here. This is where Bellis will strike, and it will take all of our resources to have even a slight chance of keeping our wall from being breached."
Barlow yawned again, then shook his head as if to clear it. "My apologies, but I'm exhausted from my duties lately. I wish Furlus were here to help ease my burdens. But yes, you make a good point, Krissana."
Cordus frowned. "And what of Kalamede and the Ironheart Priests? Those foul wretches are laying waste to the city. We depend on Kalamede for many of our resources."
"Is the White Flamestone truly needed to secure Kalamede?" said Krissana. "Surely our Knights can deal with those Priests. Can't you see the truth, Cordus? The trouble in Kalamede is most likely a diversion to lure Taris and his army--and especially the White Flamestone--farther away from Dremlock. Once the White Flamestone is in Kalamede, and Taris is bogged down in combat, Bellis will march to our gates and lay siege."
The Lord Knight hesitated, then gulped some wine. A bit of it ran down his beard, and he casually wiped it away with his sleeve. The High Council knew he took comfort in his flask. They knew it was a weakness, but there were far bigger concerns than the character failings of Dremlock's leader--as long as Cordus continued to show he could handle the kingdom's affairs. His trouble with wine could be addressed later, after the threat of Bellis was dealt with.
"Well, what say you?" Krissana pressed.
"Kalamede's City Council is quite desperate," said Cordus. "They believe the threat will not be easily dealt with and could be part of some grand plot of Tharnin. The White Flamestone will be needed. In fact, I think we should send the Dark Knights as well."
Krissana shook her head in disbelief. "And leave Dremlock so unprotected? That seems like pure folly."
"Bellis has not made a move yet," said Cordus. "I believe we should proceed with the mission to Kalamede until something changes. Our spies will notify us if Bellis is preparing to march, and then Taris' forces can hurry back here. Rest assured that we will win the race."
The Blood of Kings (Book 4) Page 3