Jake mulled that over, thinking of his own younger brother. He and Russ were also about four years apart. While Russ could annoy the hell out of him at times, they were still pretty close. Jake could not imagine what it would take for him to dislike Russ enough to not speak with him.
“It was partly because of this tension that Marcus was sent to the city four years ago.” Hailyn continued. “The official reason was for him to train with the Royal Guard, but Master Jonas knows otherwise.”
“Thanks, Hailyn.” Jake said, studying Marcus riding ahead, Justian next to him. He was surprised that he felt sorry for Marcus’ situation.
After a rest stop in the late afternoon, word was relayed that the army would not stop for the night, but drive on until they reached Sanduas. The clerics went around healing the horses to make sure they could carry on, and then the army continued. As the sun sank behind the horizon and darkness enveloped the surrounding plains, the outriders lit torches, lighting the way. The pace slowed a bit, but with solid road beneath them, the army rode confidently ahead.
Shortly before dawn, they came upon the Royal Highway and turned east. After riding all night, the sun, shining brilliantly in the clear blue sky before them, gave them renewed energy. Grashin sent some riders ahead to clear the highway, then picked up the pace. Soldiers and clerics ate in the saddle as they rode on. They made a brief stop near mid-day to allow the clerics to check on the condition of the horses, and then started forward again.
Jake recognized the waystation where he and Dominic had stopped when he first arrived as they passed by in the early afternoon. That gave him an idea of the remaining distance to the city. He noticed travelers lining the road near the highway, moved aside to allow the army to pass. As the waystation fell away behind them, he was glad to know that the journey would be over soon.
The sun was close to setting when they made their way through the foothills, cresting the final hill and seeing the city lying before them. A cheer sprang up amongst the soldiers and several began to sound horns. Grashin increased the pace, moving as fast as the wagons would allow. As they drew closer, Jake could hear horns replying from the city. He saw soldiers moving out to line the road as they approached the city gates, which were open and inviting.
The formation slowed as the first riders reached the gate and turned aside to form up along the walls, clearing the way for the Keria’s carriage and the other wagons. Jake heard the cheers and shouts from the assembled soldiers as Keria passed, her curtains pulled back so the men could see her. Echoes from the horses and wagons sounded as they passed through the tunnel and rode into the courtyard. Another set of cries went up from the assembled crowds who filled the courtyard, residents and nobles alike. The street leading to the palace was lined with Royal Guardsmen and regular soldiers. Several Guardsmen on horseback formed up next to the carriage as it continued up the street, their officer speaking with Marcus.
Marcus dropped back next to Hailyn and Jake. “Continue to the palace.” He said. “Our presence has been requested by Keria. She wishes to acknowledge our role in her rescue before the king and assembled court.”
Night was settling over the city as they passed through the royal courtyard and entered the palace grounds. As they came to a stop near the palace entrance, Jake noticed that soldiers bearing Marcus’ family emblem were mixed in with the Royal Guard spread throughout the palace grounds. Several grooms came down the palace steps to take control of the horses, allowing them to dismount.
Jake embraced his power, lighting the area, then climbed off the wagon and retrieved his armor and sword. If Marcus were wearing his armor, Jake would do the same. He tried to hurry, but even with his power, he was having difficulties with the straps. Marcus saw him struggling and came over to assist him.
“Thanks, Marcus.” Jake said as Marcus helped him get his armor in place. Marcus simply gave him a nod and, once Jake’s armor was secured, moved over to stand next to Keria, who was waiting by her carriage, watching them. Jake belted on his sword and went over to join her.
Hailyn came over and they moved into the palace, following Keria as two Royal Guard in ceremonial armor escorted her. When they reached the throne room, the doors were already open and Jake could see the king on his throne. The guards stopped at the door, but Keria continued past into the crowded hall. The king rose when he caught sight of Keria walking down the center carpet and came down the dais steps. Keria continued to move towards her father at a controlled pace, ignoring the sudden murmuring of voices that spread through the hall. Jake followed Marcus’s lead when he stopped several yards from the dais, allowing Keria to walk the final distance alone.
“Father.” Keria said formally as she stopped and curtsied to the king, her voice carrying across the hall. “I have been rescued from our enemies and have returned to you.”
The king, eyes filled with tears of joy, replied formally as well. “I am pleased to see you in good health and praise those who rescued you.” With that, he stepped forward and embraced Keria, his arms folding around her and holding tight. Jake heard him say “My dearest daughter…” before the words were drowned out from the cheers that erupted from the assembled nobles.
The king held Keria for a long moment, then reluctantly stepped back, Keria turning to stand at his side, his hand still on her arm. He raised a hand and the cheers died, the hall going quiet. “I declare that there will be three days of celebration to honor the return of the princess. The planning will start tomorrow, but for tonight, I wish to be alone with my daughter.” The crowd responded with bows and curtsies and began to move to the exits when Keria spoke up.
“Wait.” She said loudly, the crowd stopping and turning back towards the dais. “Forgive me, Father, but I would like to acknowledge those that rescued me before we depart.” At the king’s nod, she gestured for Jake, Marcus and Hailyn to step forward.
“I would not be here tonight but for the efforts of these three, along with Brother Jonas and Lord Dominic.” Keria stated. “Lord Marcus, Jake Thomas and Sister Hailyn braved the fortress of the demons who captured me and fought to free me. Jake Thomas challenged the demon lord while Lord Marcus and Sister Hailyn battled the other demons and their followers. Through Jake’s sacrifice, they destroyed the demon lord and drove off the other demons. To recognize their heroics, I have declared that Lord Marcus and Jake Thomas are Heroes of Sanduas, worthy of all honor.”
When she paused, the hall erupted in another round of cheers. Keria raised her hand and the cheering quieted.
“I cannot overstate the courage of Brother Jonas and Sister Hailyn.” She continued. “They were outnumbered by the demon hordes, but through their power and faith in the One, they stood against them, wielders of the Light against the Dark.”
“Lastly, I would be remiss if I do not note the crucial role Lord Dominic had in our victory. He fought to protect Jake Thomas and ensure the success of their mission, severely wounding the demon lord in the battle and nearly losing his life for the deed.” She looked towards her father. “I know that you have your differences with him, Father, but I ask that you honor him in this.”
“I would gladly honor him, if he would accept it.” The king said. “Where are Dominic and Brother Jonas? For that matter, where is Sir Alleon, whom I entrusted this mission? I was informed that they were not with your party.”
“On my command, they went back to the demons’ fortress with a force of clerics and soldiers to free the other captives being held, as well as destroy any remaining demons and half-men.” Keria said proudly. “They will return once that is accomplished.”
“When they return, I will speak with them about what honors I can bestow.” The king said. He looked over at Jake, waving at his glowing power. “Why do you need your magic, Jake Thomas? There are none here that will harm you.”
“Jake weakened himself when he saved me, Father.” Keria interjected as Jake struggled to figure out a way to explain it. “He needs his power for strength until Brother Jonas ret
urns and find a way to help him.”
The king looked closer and saw the damage done to Jake. When he spoke again, his voice was grateful. “I will not forget what you have done for Sanduas and for me. I am in your debt for saving my daughter’s life. If you need anything, come to me and it will be provided.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Jake said, bowing slightly. “I am simply happy that Keria is safe.” He glanced over at Marcus and Hailyn. “Also, I can’t take all of the credit. Keria would not be free if I did not have Dominic, Jonas, Marcus and Hailyn with me.”
“Such modesty does you credit, Jake.” The king replied. “Nevertheless, the offer stands.”
He straightened and looked out across the hall. “This audience is at an end.” He pronounced. “My council will meet mid-morning to discuss the celebrations. Good night to you all.” With that, he turned and led Keria off towards his private chamber. Keria looked back at the group and gave them a small wave before disappearing through the doors.
Jake could feel his legs starting to quiver as they turned and started towards the main doors. They were almost to the press of people leaving the hall when a man’s voice called out behind them. “Marcus.”
Marcus stopped and turned around, Jake and Hailyn doing the same. Jake saw a handsome older man approaching, tall and lean, with gray-streaked dark curly hair, dressed in fine clothes. Jake could not help but think that this is how Marcus would look later in life, so similar was the man in appearance.
Walking next to him was a strikingly beautiful woman, almost as tall as the man, dressed in a dark silk dress that clung to her body. Jake guessed she was in her early forties, her porcelain face still smooth, but hints of fine lines around her dark eyes and red lips, with wisps of gray visible in her long, dark hair. While she was physically attractive, Jake got a sense of coldness radiating from her, a feeling of aloofness to the plight of others. Maybe it was the lack of warmth in her eyes when she looked at Marcus or the neutral appearance on her face, but Jake immediately felt he would not want to be the person to cross her.
“Father.” Marcus said to the man. He gave a slight bow to the woman. “Mother.”
“We were pleased to hear that you accompanied the quest to free the princess, son.” Lord Marcelas said as he came up and hugged Marcus. “You have brought great honor to our house.”
He stepped back and Marcus’ mother came forward. Lady Arelia did not embrace her son, but simply touched his face. “I am glad to see you unharmed, Marcus.” She did not sound like a concerned mother or particularly glad to Jake. “It appears that your training here in the city, while keeping you from home, has been worthwhile.”
“More like he had the magic-wielders to protect him.” A tall man behind Marcus’ parents spat, looking at Marcus. He was in his twenties, dressed in mail with a sword belted on. While he took after his mother, he still closely resembled Marcus, so Jake figured out who he was before he said with contempt in his eyes. “Isn’t that right, brother?”
Marcus frowned at that, meeting his brother’s stare, eyes angry, but simply said. “If you say so, brother.”
Jake, feeling uncomfortable being caught in this family dynamic, looked at Hailyn, trying to subtly motion with his eyes that they should leave. Before they could start moving, Lord Marcelas spoke, disappointment and anger clear in his voice. “Rolas, that was unkind and beneath you. Do not belittle Marcus’ accomplishment, especially in front of his comrades.” After waiting until Rolas sullenly nodded, Lord Marcelas turned and looked expectantly at Jake and Hailyn.
“Father, as you heard, this is Jake Thomas and Sister Hailyn.” Marcus said, gesturing towards them and breaking the stare with his brother. “They both showed great courage in the face of our enemies. Without both of them, it is likely that our mission would have failed.”
“I extend the thanks of our house to you as well.” Lord Marcelas said urbanely as he extended his hand to Jake. Jake took it, noticing the firm grip and calloused hands. Lord Marcelas gave a slight bow to Hailyn. “You will always find welcome at our hold as honored comrades of Marcus.”
“I would add my thanks, as well.” Lady Arelia said, her dark eyes focused on Jake. Jake felt uncomfortable as she looked at him, those cold eyes studying him. “I am glad that Marcus has such friends.”
“Thank you, my lord and lady.” Hailyn replied with a nod of her head. “You honor us. I know that you want to catch up with your son and I need to get Jake home to rest, so we will take our leave of you.”
“Of course.” Lord Marcelas said. “Good night, Sister. Jake.” He headed towards the doors, his wife and Rolas following him.
Marcus lingered for a moment. “If you need me, send a message and I will come.” He said, looking at Jake. “I assume you will be with the Mastersmith and his family?”
“Yes.” Jake said.
“Until then, good night.” Marcus said to them and left to follow his family.
Jake and Hailyn made their way back outside, the pace slow as Jake felt his strength begin to fade. By the time the grooms brought the wagon to the entrance, his legs were quivering. He gratefully climbed into the wagon, sweating from his efforts to stay upright, and let his power go.
It only took a few minutes to ride over to Norlan’s house, finding warm light streaming from the windows. Jake was surprised to see Norlan, Madalin and Cherise sitting on the front porch, Maxis laying at Cherise’s feet. They stood as the wagon approached, Maxis rising and placing himself between them and the gate. When Hailyn stopped the wagon and called out a greeting to the family, Jake used his magic again, slowly climbing out of the wagon. He took slow hesitant steps towards the gate, Hailyn hovering close by. He made it just inside the gate when Maxis collided with him, knocking him to the ground. Jake cold not help but laugh as he found himself trying to push the dog away as Maxis happily licked his face.
“Get off him, you dumb dog.” Norlan said good-naturedly as he pulled Maxis away, allowing Jake to get back to his feet.
Madalin, tears of joy in her eyes, threw her arms around him, pulling him close, her hug tight. Once she finally released him, Cherise came up and gave him a quick hug, a smile on her face. Jake was glad to see that she was better spirits than when he last saw her.
“We heard that your party had returned, but we were not allowed into the palace grounds.” Norlan said, still holding onto Maxis, whose tail was wagging enthusiastically. “We hoped that you would return here after the nobles finished with you.”
“What’s happened to you, Jake?” Madalin asked, alarm in her voice as she looked closely at Jake’s face. Her eyes were worried as she carefully reached up and touched the white streaks in his hair.
“Something happened when I was using my magic to try to rescue the princess.” Jake said, grateful for her concern. “Jonas is not completely sure how it happened and has to research the issue before he can do anything about it.”
“Where is he, by the way?” Norlan asked. “I expected either he or Dominic to be with you.”
“It is a long story.” Jake replied. He gestured towards the house. “Let’s go sit down and we can tell you what happened.”
“Of course, Jake.” Madalin said, gently holding onto his arm. She walked next to him as they headed back to the house. Maxis barked unhappily as he was left outside while the others went inside, settling in at the kitchen table.
Madalin brought over some fruit and water as Jake and Hailyn told them everything that happened since they left the city. They described the battle at the demons’ lair and explained what they knew of Jake’s infirmity. Hailyn spoke about why the clerics could not yet help Jake. They finished with Keria sending Dominic and Jonas against the demons and of their return journey to the city.
“That is enough for now; we have plenty of time to talk.” Madalin said firmly, standing and ending the conversation. “You should go to your room and get some rest, Jake. I will make sure that you are not disturbed.” Based on the look on her face, Jake pitied t
he person who tried to disturb him.
Madalin looked over at Hailyn, studying her. “You need rest as well, Hailyn.”
“I do.” Hailyn said as she stood. “I also need to get the wagon and horses back to the Temple. I will come by tomorrow to check on Jake.” She started for the door. “The blessings of the One be upon you.”
“Let me see you out.” Norlan said and joined Hailyn as she went out the front door.
“To your room, Jake.” Madalin said determinedly. Jake gave her a smile and stood, moving towards the back door, Madalin accompanying him.
The night air was cool and the stars were shining brightly as he crossed the patio and entered his room. Once he was inside, Madalin asked if he needed anything. “Some water would be nice.” Jake answered and she left to get him a pitcher.
After he had unbelted his sword, hanging it from a peg in the wall, and gratefully sat down on his bed, the curtain pulled back and Norlan entered with his saddlebags over his shoulder, Maxis sticking his head in as well. “Hailyn said these were yours.” Norlan said as he put them on the stool in the corner.
“Thanks, Norlan.” Jake said, yawning. Feeling the comfort of the bed under him, sleep called to him. “Would you mind helping me to get out of my armor?”
“Of course.” Norlan said, coming over and assisting Jake in undoing his armor straps. Once Jake removed it, Norlan took the armor and stacked it neatly next to the saddlebags.
“I am so glad to see you again, Jake.” Norlan said as he turned back, his voice thick with emotion. “I have prayed for your safe return.” He came over and embraced Jake, his powerful arms holding him tight. “I told you that you have become like a son to me.”
“I am glad to be back.” Jake said when Norlan, looking somewhat embarrassed by his emotional display, released him. “I don’t think I would be able to deal with all this without you and Madalin.”
The Jake Thomas Trilogy: Book 02 - Sword of Light Page 5