Lord of the High Reaches

by James Haddock

  He grabbed me in a hug, laughing, "What is it with you and ships? Every time you return, you have a different one."

  "It was used. Got a good deal. The guy who sold it to me said it was only flown once a week by a little old lady.” I chuckled.

  He punched me in the shoulder. "Come inside.”

  I turned back toward the ship and shouted, "Lay-Shee, unload the supplies for the keep. Remain on watch for enemy ships."

  "Yes, Shi-Tora," he replied.

  I turned back to follow Michael. "Shi-Tora?" he asked.

  "Long story.”

  "It always is with you.” He laughed.

  Entering the main gate, I saw windows had been installed in the keep. Well, I did tell him to use it as his own. There were more people here.

  "Did you see the new farms as you came in?" he asked.

  "I did, and the railroad as well. Everything looked well under way."

  "We have 10 families that have contracted to farm with us and more on the way. The railroad is proceeding with no issues.”

  We sat down at the table in the great hall. Frederick brought coffee. "Welcome back, M'lord."

  "Thank you, Frederick. It's good to be back. I have missed all of you and this place."

  When Frederick left, Michael commented, "He must really like you. Outside of official duties, he never spoke much to anyone but family."

  "He was the one who told me what had happened when I landed at Windford Manor. I asked after his family..." then left the rest unsaid. Michael nodded and took a swallow of coffee.

  "So, what have you learned?"

  "Well, let’s see. Don't go shopping with women. They spend your money and make you buy new clothes they like." I smiled.

  Michael laughed. "Yes. I've heard they do that."

  “On other fronts, it was the Northers behind the raid on Windford. They’re backing the Westies and pushing their expansion. From the shadows, they’re the ones pulling strings. King Micha is, so far, stopping their expansion south. Well, between him and the southern cats, anyway. Then there is the new skyship, he gave me. By treaty with the Northers, he can't sell, give, teach or in any way advance any kingdom in getting skyships.

  “The strange looking ship sitting outside was captured and repaired. The original crew survived, which was good because flying it takes special skills. It’s called a “junk” and does not fall under the treaty between Micha and the Northers. What I do with some other country’s skyship is my business. So, here’s the plan. We are going to copy the technology from this ship and build our own. The first one will be a fighting ship. After that, we'll see what happens.

  “The first thing we need to do is build a tall warehouse, called a ‘hanger’. It will be big enough to fit two skyships. It will also double as our trading warehouse. If we can, we are going to make what are called ‘heavy long guns’. If nothing else, parts can be built elsewhere and put together here. I have a prototype. So, Tink and I are going to measure all the parts and draw up plans to build them. I'll also send or take a copy of the plans to King Edward.”

  "Ambitious," he said, thinking. "We need to hire more people, especially carpenters."

  "Blacksmiths and metal workers as well. A mercenary company is needed to provide security while we build up our own forces. As far as the prototype long gun, we'll probably buy what’s needed to start, but we must start now. Sooner or later, the Northers are going to take an active role in this war. We need to be ready.”

  Frederick came in with a package. As he sat it down, Michael grinned, "Forgot to mention, you have a package."

  The letter that came with it was short.

  Major Bishop, you are hereby promoted to colonel and authorized to raise up a battalion of mixed mercenaries, not to exceed 1100 men. Included are all the necessary papers, seals, and stamps. This authorizes you to conduct your business as the Black Cat Mercenary Company, or in this case battalion, in the Eastern Kingdom. Archduke Reginald R. Edwards, Secretary of Defense.

  There was an additional envelope with a letter and banknotes. The letter read:

  This will be easier and cheaper than us having to send a battalion of the army south. It was signed, “E”.

  “Well, looks like Major Bishop has been promoted to colonel and given all the paperwork to recruit and hire up to 1100 men." I counted the banknotes. There were 100,000 sovereign’s worth.

  "That solves one problem," Michael said.

  "Partly anyway. I still have to hire the mercenary companies."

  * * *

  We went to the train yard to look at the engines and to see Tink. "It's good to see you again.”

  Before he could say anything else, I stuck out my hand, and said, "Colonel Bishop.”

  "Ah, yes. Of course, Colonel Bishop," Tink said, giving me a quick wink.

  "How are our engines?"

  "Not bad, mostly just scorched paint. Luckily, neither of them were in the buildings during the fire. The steam sawmill is running at 20 percent capacity. So far, so good."

  "Good. We have a new project to work on."

  "Oh?"

  "We have a heavy long gun prototype. To produce more, every single part needs measuring, designs, and descriptions. The special ammunition needs the same."

  He smiled. "So, we’re going to produce long guns along with special ammo. Sounds like fun. Count me in."

  * * *

  We moved the heavy long gun from on top of the longhouse to my cabin and inspected it. The manufacturer’s name was on the barrel, “Bandley from Machnull”. None of us had ever heard of Machnull.

  Every aspect of the gun, firing mechanism, and tripod was measured and remeasured. I drew the diagrams. Lay-Shee wrote the descriptions. Satisfied with the results, we did the same with the bullet, plunger firing pin, and shell. Three copies of the heavy long gun design specs were made, one for each of the kings and one to keep.

  There was a drawing of what was called a “chemical element breakdown” in my arms book. It looked like a group of six-sided boxes and letters. None of us understood what they meant.

  "I might know a man who understands such things," Tink said. "I'll write him and see if he will come." It was obvious for the time being, we would be buying the Lucifers.

  Michael sent our building foreman to River's Fork to hire more carpenters needed to build a hanger. Boards from the steam sawmill were set aside to dry. A lot of wood would be needed, but we were off to a good start.

  Chapter 20

  As I was going to have to play the part of a colonel, I needed a military uniform. To keep it simple, a copy of the Eastern Kingdom style of army uniform but a darker green and the same rank insignia would do. Michael and I returned to the tailor in Windford.

  "Good Morning, Lord Windford."

  "Good morning, Sir Tailor. This is my friend, Colonel Bishop. He is in need of your services."

  "Very good, M'lord. Step over here, and we'll get your measurements. I had another customer—a southern cat—wonderful fellow."

  "That would be my brother," I said straight-faced, looking at Michael, who was mightily trying to suppress a grin.

  The tailor stopped and bowed. "I'm sorry for your loss. Your brother was well-liked in Windford."

  Now I felt bad. "Thank you. He spoke highly of the people here as well.”

  He took my measurements. "Now what kind of uniforms will you require, Colonel?"

  "I'll need a formal dress uniform, a standard dress uniform, and four field uniforms. Made in the standard Eastern Kingdom army style but somewhat darker. Two kilts and two vests in the same color are needed also.

  "You'll want the hats, gloves, and rank as well?"

  "Yes, the complete set of everything. All of mine burned when our ship went down.”

  "Yes, of course. We'll get started right away."

  "Make the standard dress uniform first, please."

  "Of course, sir. I'll send word when it is ready.”

  Next, we went to the cobbler for dress shoes, d
ress boots, riding boots, and field boots. The dress boots would be made first. A dress weapon’s harness was ordered for my short gun and knife. Who knew dressing a soldier would be so expensive?

  Pressing on, the blacksmith’s shop was next. "Good morning, Lord Windford."

  "Good morning, Sir Smith."

  "How may I be of service?"

  "Do you have the capabilities to make guns and gun barrels?"

  He shrugged. "I can, but they would be rather crude. Allow me to refer you to someone who specializes in guns. Making barrels can be tricky. And the bigger they are, the trickier they are."

  "And cannon barrels?" I asked.

  "Oh, now you’re talking about a whole different kettle of fish. The right mixtures of metals, the right temperatures, the right cooling. I would never even attempt it."

  "Where would we find someone to do that kind of thing?" Michael asked.

  Tapping his nose with the tip of his finger, he pondered, then snapped his fingers. "The capital, I’m thinking.”

  "Thank you, Sir Smith," Michael said, and we left.

  “While I’m in the capital, I'll see what I can find out. L will leave as soon as I get my uniforms."

  * * *

  I completed the translation of Seeker's large journal and went to the train yard to show Tink, who had built himself a small shed to live and work in.

  "I have something to show you," I said.

  He wiped off his hands and turned to me. Handing him the translated book, he thumbed through it, stopping to read in a few places.

  Stunned, he asked, "Where did you find this? These are improvements on steam engines, I've never considered."

  "There's more in there than just steam engine improvements. Read it and we'll talk."

  He had already turned away, reading and nodding. I smiled and left him to his world.

  A message arrived that my uniform and boots were ready to be picked up. Of course, when I got there, I had to try anything on. Everything fit, including the shiny dress boots and dress weapons harness. The hat was going to take some getting used to. It was a dark green Balmoral bonnet with a black torrie. On the left side was a feather hackle plume in black and the Eastern Kingdom's badge on a lighter green cockade. The black signified I was a mercenary, while the light green cockade signified the Eastern Kingdom. The tailor assured me that the formal dress Balmoral would be even nicer.

  Back at the keep, Michael insisted on a fashion show.

  "You are as bad as a woman," I complained.

  "You should appreciate my taking the time to ensure you look right before anyone else sees you," Michael replied.

  "Fine. I'll put on the uniform, mother." I changed into the dress uniform and came out for inspection. Frederick was there with Michael. I stood at attention while they checked everything.

  "There are a few things missing," Michael said.

  "There are, M’lord," Frederick said. “You are missing the Windford clan badge, and I'd be honored if you'd wear mine. I served for a time with a mercenary company as a First Sergeant, who is called a ‘Top Sergeant’ by his men."

  "I am honored," I said, as he pinned it on my chest.

  "And you'll need these," Michael continued, fastening a colonel’s rank insignia on the epaulets. "They were father's, and I know he would want you to have them. Now you look the proper colonel."

  I didn't know what to say. "Thank you, both."

  "One bit of advice from my mercenary day, if I may, Colonel," Frederick offered.

  "Of course, Top Sergeant."

  "You are going to need a mercenary lawyer. Mercenary contracts are tricky and sticky, as ours used to say. And listen to your sergeants. They soldier for a living. Let them do their jobs. You tell them what you want; they'll make it happen.”

  "Sound advice, and I shall take it."

  "We have one other piece of advice, and we have taken some liberties." Michael looked at Frederick. "Top Sergeant, if you please."

  Top Sergeant Frederick Mercer came to attention, commanding, “Sergeant Mercer! Post!"

  A young man in a dress uniform to match my own entered and stopped before us at attention. He saluted. "Sergeant Robert Mercer reporting, sir."

  Immediately, I recognized him as one of the carpenters on the keep renovation crew.

  I returned his salute. "At ease, Sergeant." He went to parade rest and waited.

  "Out of the horse selling business, Sergeant?" I asked.

  "At the moment, sir, but I can get them if need be," he said with the crisp voice and straight-face expected of military men.

  "If I may, Colonel," Frederick said. "Robert served in a mercenary company. He knows what's proper, and pardon my saying so, he knows how to work the system. He’ll make you a good dog robber. A bit of a rogue, but a good lad to have when you're in a tight spot. Quick-witted, he knows when to keep his mouth shut."

  “He’s also quick-footed as evidenced by not getting skewered by a dodgy portcullis.” I smiled.

  “That too.”

  "As a colonel, it’s expected that you’ll have an aide. Someone to look out for your well-being and everyday needs,” Michael said.

  "Since Robert is a lowly sergeant, no one will notice him. He’ll see and hear things you will not. He'll also get things that you may have trouble acquiring. And above all, he'll watch your back. As your aide, he goes where you go, no questions asked," Frederick remarked.

  "He’s fitted out with a full kit. So, he's ready to go when you are," Michael added.

  They made good points; points I had not thought of. Besides, sometimes you need a bit of a rogue.

  "I don't suppose you could get your money back from the tailor?" I asked Michael.

  "I cannot," he answered, smiling.

  "Ah, well, then I suppose I shall have to take him." I grinned. "Welcome aboard, Sergeant Mercer."

  "Thank you, Colonel."

  "We leave for the capital in two days. Get us two first-class tickets." I gave him a purse for expenses.

  "Yes, sir." he said, taking the purse.

  I decided to give him a test and put him to work straightaway. "I'll be staying in the keep tonight. Find out which room I'm assigned and unpack my things. Tomorrow's dress will be field uniform."

  Taking that as his dismissal, "Yes, sir, I'll see to it." He saluted and left to attend to his duties, as did his uncle, Frederick.

  "With as many shenanigans as Robert’s been in, it’s a miracle the sheriff has never been able to pinch him for any,” Michael chuckled. “That said, he's just what you need with as many hats as you wear. He's a good man. He'll stand, if it comes to it."

  "Thank you for thinking of this. I never would have. Now we just have to get used to each other and play our parts."

  "Oh, he's used to playing parts, that's why he never got pinched." Michael laughed.

  During dinner, Sergeant Mercer stayed close at hand, but out of the way. Once dinner was finished, he showed me to my assigned room. All my kit had been put away ‘dress-right-dress,’ alignment to the right, and ‘squared away’.

  "Follow me," I said. Climbing an interior spiral stairway, we exited onto the top battlement. Completely alone, it was a good place for a private chat.

  "If we are to be effective as a team, there are some things you need to know. Some of them you may have guessed. I have enemies, powerful enemies, and by association, Lord Windford has enemies, which is why Lord Highreacher died in the last battle."

  "If my enemies think me dead, they will, hopefully, leave Windford alone. Sometimes, I will be Colonel Bishop of the Black Cat Mercenary Company, or I might be Baron Lord Du-cat of the Southern Kingdom, or I may be Shi-Tora, captain of a foreign trading ship. But what I'm always doing is working to further the goals of Clan Windford, the Eastern Kingdom, and the Southern Kingdom in that order."

  "Are you a spy?" He asked wide-eyed.

  With a lifted eyebrow, I hesitated a moment. "Well, I certainly hadn’t thought of myself as one, but in a way, I suppose I
am, but not in any official capacity. Both kings use me to pass information, and we are after the same thing, but I would not say I was their spy. Lord Windford and others have businesses with me, and we are in business to make money. I guess you could say, using the spy analogy, that Colonel Bishop, Lord Du-cat, and Shi-Tora are my covers. Few know all of them, and now that you do, it puts you in danger as well. At times, I’ll have to make harsh decisions, and sometimes, it gets bloody. That's the nature of the beast. I value loyalty and reward it, but I punish disloyalty even quicker, because lives are at risk."

  Letting him think on what had been said, he stared off in the distance, weighing it all. Decision made, he looked me in the eye. "I'm with you, M’lord, no matter the end. I'm your sworn man." He knelt before me with head bowed.

  His 'sworn man oath' was more than I had intended. But now that it was offered, I could not lightly refuse it. Placing my hand on his head, "I accept you, Robert Mercer, as my sworn man."

  * * *

  We assumed our roles and left for the train station. Robert took care of the luggage and carriage. I, as a senior officer, did little but give orders. On the way to the station, I gave him a wallet of money to take care of larger expenses. I would trust him, to a degree, until he gave me a reason not to. If that happened, I'd deal with it then.

  The two-day trip gave us time to get to know each other a little. He could, thankfully, read and write. His military rating was bronze with a long gun, silver with short guns, knives and hand-to-hand. Bronze being the lowest, next silver, then gold. Since I could only carry one of my grooved barrel short guns with my military weapon’s harness, I gave the other to Robert. Checking his knife, it was decent, but we'd look for a better one.

  When eating, we sat with our backs against a wall. If only one could do so, it was Robert. Most of the time, especially on the train, we had to watch each other’s back. Robert kept watch during the day. I kept it at night. It was a boring trip to the capital. Last time was more interesting, but hopefully, venomous snakes had not purchased tickets for this trip.

  Robert’s experience was already paying off. He took me to the military guest house near the palace. Here officers and their aides could get a nice suite. Robert checked us in, and we went upstairs. The suite had two bedrooms with a sitting room between. Robert gave me the slightly larger one, “as befitting my rank”, he stated.