Alec turned to Leo, “I think it is safe to assume he really is just trying to help.”
“Well maybe…but I don’t trust him.” There was a short awkward silence in the room, before the young prince suggested they should probably gather their belongings and make their way downstairs. Leo felt a little annoyed that the others did not feel as he did, and more so they appeared not be taking his concerns seriously.
When they group walked out of the back door and in to the yard they were surprised at what lay before them. A score or more Arandorian troops sat atop their mounts, each finely dressed in the colours of their nation. Leo instantly dropped his bag to the ground and readied himself for a fight, “Chad get ready to shield!” he ordered. The sorcerer though was not convinced he needed to be quite so overdramatic, especially as he pointed out to Leo the vacant horses further back.
“I have gathered an honour guard for his highness as well as fresh horses for the rest of you,” Farley said stepping into view.
Leo lowered his hands, “Oh…Thankyou,” he said feeling a little sheepish. Farley chuckled again and placed a hand on Leo’s shoulder, “It is good you take your duties seriously young sorcerer. I think the prince is in good hands with you at his side,” he added paying Leo an unexpected compliment.
With them all now being given horses suitable for the journey, Leo was once more responsible for the reins to his own. Fortunately for him, the creature he had been given appeared quite placid and seemed calm and keen enough to just follow those in front. Farley had given the order to move out, and the front riders holding aloft their short lances led the way. The small flags at the tips sprung into life as they moved, fluttering just enough to make out a golden crown motif upon them; something immediately noticed by Alec.
With the prince surrounded either side by Leo and Chad, the rest of the group followed behind them, with another group of Arandorian soldiers bringing up the rear. Despite the early hour, there were already dozens of people about the town, all of whom stopped to stare as they trotted by. Obviously having such a group parading through the streets was not a common sight, especially when Leo noticed people staring and pointing his direction.
Once out of the gates the group spread out a little and picked up the pace just a touch. Alec immediately moved up alongside Leo, “See the banners on the lances?” he asked.
“Yes of course, what of them?” He replied trying not to take his eyes off the track ahead of him.
“Did you not see the emblem?”
“No I didn’t.”
Alec could see his friend trying to concentrate on his horse riding, so decided to stop being so cryptic and explain his thoughts. He deduced the emblem being a crown meant that the soldiers were some sort of royal guard, usually used for escorting duties. Although quite what they were doing in Affleton he did not know.
“Perhaps they have royal guards stationed in various towns,” Leo replied. Alec shrugged, “Perhaps, but surely the towns would have their own guards,” he replied.
The answer to their quandary was soon given as Farley moved his horse alongside their own. “I see you looking at the banners,” he said looking to Alec as he spoke. The Literary apprentice nodded, “They are Royal Guards are they not? As are you?” He replied with a question.
“You are very observant I’ll give you that,” Farley chuckled, before explaining a little more about who he was and why he was there.
Apparently the Prince of Arandor, the grandson of the Queen had received a message via bird from an old friend in the Caldronian Guild. “One of the Master’s, I am not permitted to say which, but they told him the prince was heading our way, and to keep an eye on him if possible!”
“That’s how you knew who the prince was?” Alec added thinking aloud.
“Why didn’t you just say who you were?” Leo asked still keeping his gaze firmly on the track in front of him.
“I thought I did. Although I was trying to keep our purpose for being in Affleton quiet. I’m afraid Arandor is not as safe a place as you might think.”
Farley explained that he was a senior officer in the Royal Guard and personal friend of the young Prince Edwin. As soon as he had received the message, they had tried to calculate where about Kellan and his group would cross the border. “We narrowed it down to two places. Looks like I guessed right,” he said with a grin.
With them all being given proper horses, Leo was not the only one to feel a little awkward. Jon, who had come quite attached to the pony he had been given, was now given a horse that made his diminutive size all the more apparent. However, such was the youngster’s adaptability, he soon had full control of the creature, though was told to stay with the group and not scout ahead as he had been doing.
The day was a rather dull and cloudy affair, as the group stopped several times to rest the horses; probably far more than was probably necessary, but Leo thought as he was no expert on the beasts he would keep his opinion to himself. Instead, he tried to focus on his riding, glancing over occasionally to the others to see how they sat, or how they moved, hoping to pick up some new tip that might make his own experiences much easier.
After passing by numerous towns and villages, it was late afternoon by the time the Arandorian capital of Dornby came in to view. As with most large cities, it did indeed have a large outer wall as a means of defence against any would be attackers; something that had not saved Surmont. Leo thought the claims of the stonework being white was actually off the mark, as he thought the walls looked more a light grey colour, but that was just his opinion.
As they neared the city, it was evidently clear that Farley became much more anxious, ordering his men to keep alert and ride in formation. Once more Leo and the others were asked to keep to the centre of the group, just as they had been when they set out early that morning. Continuing on the theme of being more open, Farley explained that there would be ‘eyes’ in the city; something that had to be explained to Leo, as he did not understand what the man was on about. Furthermore, contrary to what they had been led to believe, they would not go directly to palace, as apparently that was the worse place to be.
Farley told them that the ailing queen had taken all manner of strange folk into her court, some of whom he was convinced did not have Arandor’s best interests at heart. “You mean there could be Belarian influences in the Queen’s court?” Alec asked, catching on almost immediately as to what was being said. The Arandorian soldier gave a simple nod, “I am convinced of it. That is why I am taking you to the home of the Prince.”
Apparently, Prince Edwin did not reside in the palace as they had all expected, but in a large walled property to the north of the city. “It is no palace, but large enough to be called a luxury home, with more than plenty of room for your Highness and the rest of you.” Once there he told them they should be safe, and have time to work out where or what to do next.
Leo pondered a minute as they approached the large arched gateway to the city. What should they do next? In all honesty he had not had much time to think on it. Where they supposed to live out their days in Arandor as a deposed prince and his retinue? Whatever the future held for them, he was certain it was not going to be easy; nothing these days seem to be.
The city streets were surprisingly clean, probably more so than Surmont. The rows of houses all appeared well maintained as they manoeuvred their way between the crowds of people. Some merely just stepped aside to let them pass, but most seemed intrigued especially when they noticed the black robes of the sorcerers. Leo peered out from underneath his hood wandering whether Arandor had their own equivalent.
Farley cursed as they were briefly held up by a trader moving his hand cart across the street, and became increasingly agitated the longer the man took. Leo noticed the soldier scanning the streets, obviously looking for any potential dangers, and could not decide whether he was doing so for their purpose or whether it was something he was doing from habit.
The hold-up was only a short one, but even t
hat was enough time for a small crowd to gather and stand gawping. The Arandorian soldiers ensured nobody got too close as they kept their shape, encapsulating the prince and his followers. Within a minute they were on the move again, although Farley seemed intent on doing so much quicker than one would normally do through the streets of a busy city.
Leo noticed a truly massive building set off to one side, which he could only assume was the royal palace. Size wise it may have been bigger, but from the short glimpse he got as he passed by, he did not think it as architecturally superior; not that his knowledge of buildings was anything of note.
The front riders pulled to a halt as they approached a large walled building, with black wrought iron gates barring their way. Leo noticed several guards wearing the same uniforms as those escorting them, and realised this must be the home of the Arandorian Prince. Once inside, he looked around. The front yard area was covered in cobbled stone, with a large lawn area off to one side which looked like it ran right around the side of the building. The house was, in all but name, a small palace, and he thought he shouldn’t have really expected anything less.
Several lads, probably of a similar age to himself, all dressed in royal livery quickly scurried from a building off to his right, which he assumed to be the stable block. Two of the stable hands paused slightly, clearly not sure of the four figures in black robes. “They won’t bite!” Farley shouted over noticing the wide berth they were giving to the Caldronian sorcerers. One lad gingerly approached, slowly moving his hand out to take the reins from Leo.
Only once they were all unloaded and ready, did Farley lead them across the cobbled yard towards the main entrance. Several wide steps led up to the large black painted doors, where two more guards were stood on duty. The doors opened wide and they all followed the soldier in to a large open hallway, where a rather finely dressed young man was stood waiting for them.
“Your Highness,” Farley said bowing his head to the man, “May I introduce his Royal Highness Prince Kellan of Caldronia. Prince Kellan may I introduce Prince Edwin of Arandor.” Both Edwin and Kellan stepped forward, and both bowed their heads just a little acknowledging each other. Leo thought it a strange spectacle, as he also stepped forward making sure he was positioned at Kellan’s right hand side.
As was protocol, Leo kept his hood up, covering his identity, at least until his prince asked him to do otherwise. His actions must have somehow been deemed as offensive as two Arandorian guards went to move towards him. “Calm down!” Edwin said raising his voice just a little, telling his soldiers to return to their positions. Fortunately, it appeared the prince at least, was familiar with Caldronian protocol, “The sorcerer is only doing his job. Anyway, I doubt you would be much use against such a man anyway,” he added trying to peek a look at Leo’s face.
Just as Leo thought the introductions were over and they could all move on, Prince Edwin dropped a bombshell. “Your highness,” he said, “I am so sorry to hear about your father. He was indeed a good man…” The prince petered off his words as he looked toward Farley, and although no words passed between them, it was clear the prince realised something. “You do not know?” he said clearly feeling very awkward.
There was a short difficult silence, and although Kellan tried to remained composed, it was clear the words had already hit home. Leo looked over to see the lad stood perfectly still and upright, as one would expect from such a distinguished figure. Yet there were already tears rolling freely down the lad’s face, as Leo also realised what had just been said.
“Please forgive me,” Edwin said softly, kneeling down before Kellan. “I assumed you already knew, I had a messenger bird telling me early yesterday, and I thought you would have been notified on your travels.”
“How did he die?” Kellan asked, sniffling just a little. Edwin exhaled loudly, clearly not looking forward to adding more misery to the child prince before him. “Perhaps we should go somewhere a little more private your highness,” Farley said trying to help his prince. “Please just tell me,” Kellan added wiping his eyes with his sleeve. Edwin sighed, “I sorry but the news does not get any better. If my sources are right, your father was executed by the Belarian King,” he eventually replied trying to think of the best way to explain.
Edwin hoped not giving too much detail, at least not yet, might somehow make the terrible news a little more bearable. Kellan’s father had indeed been executed, but surely the lad did not need to know the way it had been carried out. Leo decided to forget all protocol and throw back his hood, before placing a friendly arm about Kellan’s shoulder. Alec stepped up beside them, “Perhaps we could go to a room and digest what you have just told us?”
Edwin, clearly embarrassed by what he had just done, quickly clapped his hands together, signalling for two serving staff to make haste. “Farley, would you go also,” he added.
Leo, Kellan and the other Caldronians were quickly led up a large twisting staircase up to the first floor. After turning left, they were led down a long corridor with several white doors, “These are to be yours,” Farley said, “This one for the prince,” he added stopping and opening a door to allow them entry. Leo followed Kellan inside, although wasn’t sure he was supposed to, and glanced back to see Alec doing the same anyway.
The room was large and bright, with the right side being taken up by several cushioned chairs arced around an ornate looking fireplace. In the centre was a table with chairs around for private dining, and against the far wall a writing desk. To the left was a large bed with posts stretching upwards almost to the ceiling. There was a tall wardrobe off to one side and a washstand in the corner with freshly laundered towels upon it.
“I’ll leave you to settle in,” Farley said remaining stood in the open doorway. “Thank you,” Alec replied before checking the young prince was holding up. Leo was not sure what to say or do, and so just kept his hand on the prince, patting his shoulder every now and then. "I’ll sit with him a while,” Alec said quietly. Leo nodded, “I’ll check the others all get settled in,” glad he was given a way out of the current situation.
His own room which he would share with Chad, was next to the one given the prince, but was a little smaller, although nonetheless quite luxurious in its own right. In place of one large bed, were two smaller singles. Both had fresh linen sheets neatly folded over at the tops, and both had a small bedside table beside them. There were fewer cushioned chairs, and a much smaller table in the centre, but the layout was very similar to the other room.
Chad slumped down on the edge of one of the beds, “Bloody hell!” he sighed running his hands through his hair. “The king dead!” he added as Leo decided to make use of the washing facilities in the corner of the room. He poured a little water from the jug on the stand into the porcelain bowl, before cupping his hands and splashing the water up to his face. The liquid was tepid at best, but Leo thought the cooler the water the more refreshing it felt. After picking up a towel and dabbing his face dry, he wandered around the room, pausing a few moments besides the window and peering out.
“What do you think will happen to us?” Chad said looking up at his mentor. Leo had no answer to give, at least not one that sounded hopeful. In truth, he was as unsure of the future as he had ever been. Leaving the question unanswered he strolled over to where he had placed his pack. Inside where just a few items of food, a canteen of water and sewn into a secret pocket a small bag of coins he had discovered by mistake. “I wish I had something clean to put on,” he said raising his arm slightly and sniffing, “This robe is started to smell a little.”
Chapter 9.
Edwin, Prince of Arandor paced around his study, cursing at how foolish he had been. “How would he have known his father was dead? They have been on the road for the past several days…I’m a bloody idiot,” he said admonishing himself. Farley stood beside the unlit fireplace, “You would have had to tell him sooner or later Sire. I would not dwell on what is done, only what we can do.”
“And wh
at can we do Farley?” The prince asked clearly still annoyed.
The soldier walked over towards the prince, “Well Sire, we can make sure the Caldronians have an heir by keeping the young prince safe.”
“You know my grandmother will hear of his arrival and want an explanation, what do I tell that old crone?” he asked showing his obvious dislike for her. Farley afforded a smile, “Tell her the truth. The prince is in your care. Her condition is so poor I doubt she will even bother.”
Edwin listened as Farley explained the latest reports from the palace. The queen was bedridden, and heavily medicated. Whilst this may have sounded a good thing, it was in fact quite the opposite. With the nation’s ruler hanging on to life, it was now her aides and advisors that seemed to be making the decisions for her. These were people neither Edwin nor Farley trusted, and something that would have to be dealt with if and when he ever became king.
Edwin had joked for some time that his grandmother was clinging on to life just to annoy everybody. Such had been the state of her mind of late, even he had struggled to gain access to the palace. As a result of this, the prince had started gathering a small army of his own, having them swear an oath to him as opposed to the queen. Although this might have sounded slightly treasonous to some, he had felt it necessary to have his own men for protection.
The King's Sorcerer (The Caldronian Guild Book 3) Page 6