Lannon and Vesselin were added to the chain. Lannon felt humiliated to be strung together with the others like fish. It was horrifying to see what had become of Dremlock--such powerful and honorable Knights enslaved to a mad king. Verlamer was unpredictable and might order all of them executed on the spot. If so, Lannon vowed there would be a fight.
"Excellent," said King Verlamer, sitting down at the table. "Everyone is present. I would like to call this meeting to order. We are here to decide the fate of Dremlock. From what I can gather, these are the most important Knights of this kingdom, aside from Cordus Landsaver of course."
"Some of them are mere lads," said the Bellis Lord, a heavyset, bald Norack with a braided beard. He shook his head. "Why would such young, inexperienced warriors hold such power within a kingdom?"
"Typically they wouldn't, Hargud," said Verlamer. "Here we have five members of the High Council, and Fadar Stonebow is ranked just below that and is not an official member as far as I can gather. Then we have several Knights who are ranked just below Fadar who I decided not to invite to the meeting. However, the Divine Shield changes the order of command, and these young Knights are at least as highly ranked as Fadar Stonebow--if not slightly higher."
Hargud grunted something and then sipped at a goblet of wine. "Their order of command is strange. The exact ranking of each warrior is difficult to tell. I'm assuming that Taris Warhawk is now the acting Lord Knight?"
"Yes," said Verlamer, "and Furlus Goblincrusher is ranked just below him. Vesselin is now actually third in command. Beyond that, the order is unimportant. Let us just proceed with our business."
The Bellis Lady, a large woman with curly blond hair adorned with a flower from the Temple grounds, was picking at various cheeses from a platter and popping them in her mouth. Her name was Seleia. "The men are so handsome, even the Birlote sorcerer in spite of his scars." She smiled at Vannas. "And it delights me to lay eyes on a Prince of Borenthia--so bold and strong-looking. The Dwarves, however, have fat bellies and are quite repulsive for warriors."
Furlus sneered at her. Suddenly, his muscles bulged beneath his short-sleeved tunic and it seemed like his thick irons might snap apart. The Lady dropped her piece of cheese and shrank back. But the irons held.
The Wizard, whose name was Aljohn, fixed his gaze on Lannon. He was a Norack Alchemist with red hair and a beard and kindly looking eyes. In spite of his pleasant appearance and demeanor, he was a brutal strategist who had been trained by Omharal in the ways of killing and intimidation. "So this is the boy who can see all. He is probably searching our thoughts right now."
Aljohn was correct in that Lannon was scanning them with the Eye, but Lannon was not able to discover anything useful. He gave up on that and simply waited to hear what they had to say.
"He can see much," said Verlamer, "but not all." He winked at Lannon. "If he could see all, he wouldn't be standing here in irons."
"Ah, yes," said Hargud. "My king, I am very impressed with how swiftly and easily you defeated this legendary kingdom. And the trap which snared Prince Vannas was extraordinary and, well, just purely brilliant!"
"Beyond brilliant!" said Seleia. "They never stood a chance."
The king smiled. "The trap was entirely mine. In fact, Malijor thought it was pure folly. He thought Lannon Sunshield would see right through it. But I insisted he was wrong."
"He is a fool," said Aljohn, "who thinks he knows best."
Verlamer shook his head. "Not a fool. He does many great deeds for our kingdom, but he lacks...an instinct that I was born with. I could sense that young Lannon would fail to avoid the trap. My heart was filled with certainty--and when I feel so strongly about something, I am rarely wrong."
"You are the wisest of the wise, my king," said Seleia. She gulped down her cheese and leaned toward him. "May I kiss your ring?"
King Verlamer glanced at the large, gleaming, golden ring he wore, sculpted in the shape of a Dragon's head. He frowned. "I shall take a pass on that."
She bowed. "Of course, my lord."
"This is our status," said King Verlamer. "Pay attention." Lord, Lady, and Wizard leaned toward him as if he'd just yanked on their ears. "Feldo is having trouble with the Greywinds. They won't cooperate very easily. Yet these magnificent horses simply must learn to serve us. I sent for a Ranger who is an expert in dealing with them. He once tended the stables here. Also, the Olrogs still refuse to work with our blacksmiths in the Forge, but I'm not sure we will need them. Resources are running a bit low, as we discussed before, so a rather large shipment of supplies is on the way from Gravendar. I also would like to send a shipment to Braxalt from Kalamede to help with the troubles there."
Hargud sighed. "Braxalt continues to plague us. That festering mud pit has cost us more time and resources than anything else. It remains my opinion that we should burn it and leave it in ruins."
"Braxalt has great historical value," said Verlamer. "Something you should learn to appreciate, Hargud. That festering mud pit, as you call it, is one of our proudest achievements."
Hargud yawned. "If you say so, my lord."
Lannon shifted about impatiently, wondering if King Verlamer was going to get to matters of more significance.
The king gazed at Lannon for a moment, then said, "This kingdom is still very much in disarray. There is a bitter lack of cooperation here--especially concerning the Grey Dwarves. Even the lowly Orange Squires resist us. Therefore, I believe we need to show these Divine Knights that we mean business."
"Perhaps a bit of torture would do the trick," said Seleia, carefully selecting a piece of cheese and setting it atop some bread. She studied it for a moment and then went on, "Some of the food here is wonderful, by the way. Simple, yet refreshingly delicious."
"I agree about the food," said Verlamer, "but not the torture. The Divine Knights can resist pain and have little fear of injury or death. We need something more shocking. Remember, we're not dealing with ordinary warriors."
"Executions?" asked Aljohn.
"I think he's referring to the duels again," said Hargud, frowning.
"Yes, the duels," said Verlamer, drumming his long fingers on the tabletop. "We need to give the Knights a fighting chance. Not only will it show that we are fair and noble, but it will provide us with considerable entertainment. This strategy has worked well for us in the past."
"My lord," said Hargud, "I know that you have a deep fondness for duels. But are you sure it won't create sympathy for our prisoners?"
Verlamer sighed. "You always suggest that, Hargud, yet it never happens. The people of this land have great respect for honorable combat."
"Yet Prince Vannas should already have been executed," said Aljohn. "He is too dangerous to be kept alive. We should do it right now."
The prince raised his head, but said nothing.
Lannon tensed up, ready to fight to the death.
"I disagree," said the king. "If we execute him, the Birlotes may grow enraged and opt to go to war. We are not quite ready to deal with Borenthia yet. Therefore, it would be best if he died in honorable combat--in a duel. If he loses, the Birlotes may feel he got what he deserved."
"Not likely!" Vannas muttered.
One of the Guardians seized the prince and put a blade to his throat.
Lannon reached into his irons with the Eye, preparing to unlock them. He would not stand idle and allow Vannas to be executed.
"Prince Vannas, be quiet," Taris commanded. "We will obey the king's order and not interfere with the discussion. We are simply here to listen."
"Very wise of you, Taris," said Verlamer. "At least you understand what will happen if I am not obeyed." He signaled the Guardian to release Vannas, and the Golden Knight stepped back.
"Well, which ones will fight?" asked Seleia.
"The prince, of course," said Verlamer, "and his two cousins--against a Thallite giant. That should make for an entertaining battle. If they win, they get to remain alive and imprisoned. That's fair enough."
"A Thallite?" Seleia laughed. "They will be squashed, the poor souls!"
Aljohn grinned. "It will be quite brutal."
"Yet what if they somehow did win?" said Hargud. "Again, the prince is too dangerous to have lurking in our dungeon."
"Nonsense," said Verlamer. "I have the White Flamestone now, and he will never lay hands on it again. He is no danger to us."
"May I...see the Flamestone?" said Aljohn, his eyes shining.
Looking annoyed, Verlamer reached into his cloak. Then he withdrew his hand. "No, it isn't necessary. It is now mine alone to gaze upon."
The Wizard bowed, but looked unhappy.
"And the others?" asked Seleia.
"We need the two Tower Masters," said Verlamer, "for their knowledge of this kingdom. Therefore, they cannot fight. The Dwarves are boring. We all know how much they love combat, and their battle methods are quite predictable. The two older Dwarves will sit out, along with Fadar Stonebow and, of course, the useless old fool Vesselin Hopebringer. I will, however, allow the young female Dwarf to participate along with her friends. The two Birlote Blue Knights can fight together. I will plan something special for them."
"What about Lannon Sunshield?" asked Hargud. "He is also quite dangerous. We are playing with fire, my king, by allowing some of these Knights to remain alive. If they're dead, they can no longer threaten us."
Verlamer waved dismissively. "Save your warnings. You forget who you're dealing with."
Hargud bowed. "I trust your judgment, my king. Obviously, your wisdom has guided this kingdom to unsurpassed glory. However, every bit of instinct within me screams for these Knights to be eliminated quickly. Also, we shouldn't be discussing this in front of the prisoners."
"Yet I want them to hear it," said Verlamer. "Especially Lannon. I have specific plans for the young Bearer of the Eye. He will help me deal with this kingdom and its rebellious spirit." He smiled at Lannon.
Don't be so sure of that, Lannon thought stubbornly.
The king rose and approached Taris Warhawk. He leaned down, until his face was inches from Taris' face. "I've heard much about you, sorcerer. They say you're quite talented, perhaps on the level of the Birlote Wizards. I would love to test your strength myself in a duel."
"My lord!" said Hargud, looking greatly concerned.
Verlamer sneered. "But I need you alive. Just remember one thing--I am the Lord Knight here now. Ultimately, you will recognize that."
Taris didn't reply. His face was stony.
Anger flooded through Lannon at the sight of this disrespect for the great Taris Warhawk. He wondered how Taris could remain so composed.
Verlamer paused to glare at Furlus, who glared back. "Dwarves," the king muttered, rolling his eyes. "Boring and predictable. Then he moved on to Prince Vannas. "I hope you die with honor, young prince."
"I will," said Vannas, "if I must die."
Verlamer took out the black pouch containing the White Flamestone and shoved it close to Vannas' face. He slid forth the Flamestone. "Look upon it one last time. It belongs to me forever now."
Vannas gazed at the Flamestone, a wounded expression on his face.
King Verlamer returned the stone to his robe. He paused before Shennen, whose cold eyes glittered. "I see death in your gaze, Birlote. I hope the arena takes care of you." He started moving down the line.
"If it doesn't," said Shennen, "then watch the shadows."
Verlamer hesitated, then glanced back. He seemed to consider giving a reply, then simply moved on to Trenton. "Here we have the Investigator of Dremlock. What shall I do with you? I'll have to think about it."
"Vile scum!" Trenton shouted. "If it wasn't for my companions, I would break free and tear you to pieces!"
"Yes," said Verlamer. "I hear you are a rather dangerous sorcerer. But you should know that I don't take kindly to insults. I'll deal with you later."
Next, the king confronted Jace. The two gazed at each other in silence. Verlamer was slightly taller, but otherwise they were roughly the same in stature. Verlamer raised his eyebrows. "There is something familiar about you."
Jace nodded. "I probably resemble your...brother."
"I have no brother," said Verlamer. "I have a sister--and a son who despises me, a weakling who does not share in the Blood of Kings. But no brother. I have heard of you, Jace the Wanderer. I have...dreamt of you. I dreamt that you were plotting the downfall of my kingdom. I am glad that you are now a prisoner of mine, and I hope you eventually perish in the arena so you trouble my dreams no more. I will plan something for you at a later date."
Verlamer at last paused before Lannon. "The last of the Dark Watchmen and the most dangerous of all. A boy who doesn't yet realize the extent of his own power. You will sit by my side and watch the duels."
"This isn't necessary," said Lannon.
"And why not?" asked the king. "Dremlock resists me, disrespects me. It is time I showed the strength of my kingdom in the arena. It is very necessary. Tomorrow will be a day of bloodshed and cleansing, Sunshield. I give everyone here a fair chance at survival. If your friends are worthy, they will live."
Lannon glanced at Taris. "What should I do, Master Taris?" He wanted to know if he should try to escape and lead a rebellion.
Taris replied, "Be patient. Let Verlamer choose his fate."
Verlamer's eyes widened. "Let me choose my fate? And what does that mean, oh wise sorcerer? I have chosen my fate already. It has led me here, and it will eventually lead me to your homeland of Borenthia."
Taris didn't reply.
Chapter 22: The Fishing Trip
Later, King Verlamer came to Lannon's cell. Once again he was flanked by two Guardians and accompanied by his golden Dragon. He carried two fishing poles and a tackle box. "Greetings, Lannon. I discovered a nice little river not far from here, overflowing with fish. I just happen to be a skilled fisherman, and I wish to have a bit of relaxation before the duels tomorrow. I thought you could join me and have a chance at some fresh air."
It was an odd invitation. Why would Verlamer want to invite one of his greatest enemies on a fishing trip? Was it simply more the king's alleged madness, or some brilliant scheme Lannon couldn't fathom?
"Do you enjoy fishing, Lannon?"
"I do," said Lannon, speaking the truth. He'd fished in that river many times before.
Verlamer smiled. "Excellent. I consider this a serious competition, however. You have the advantage of knowing the terrain, but I catch on rather quickly. You will have your hands full trying to defeat me. And no cheating with the Eye of Divinity. I expect this to be a fair contest. Agreed?"
"Agreed," said Lannon.
Verlamer unlocked the cell.
Taris had told Lannon to let Verlamer choose his fate, and Lannon was beginning to understand why. Clearly, this king was on some insane path that could lead him to a bad end. But how many good people would he take down with him?
Lannon stepped into the hall, and Verlamer patted him on the shoulder and handed him a fishing pole. "Elgessia. That means fish in the old Dragon tongue. At least I think that's the shortened version of the word. It originally was specific to a type of serpent fish related to the Dragons, that can be found even in rivers outside the Bloodlands. The word later came to represent all fish."
Lannon nodded. He had no idea what the king meant by old Dragon tongue and was too distracted by other thoughts to bother asking.
"Let us be off, then," said Verlamer.
"It might be hard for me to fish," said Lannon, "with these shackles on." They were rubbing his wrists raw and he wanted to be rid of them. Since the king already knew he could free himself if he chose, wearing them seemed pointless.
The king shrugged. "We'll deal with that later."
***
The river was in Knightwood. It was a small stream yet deep enough to harbor lots of colorful fish. On the opposite bank stood a mossy stone statue of an armored Knight. This was where Lannon and his friends had come to fish
or swim when they weren't training. It was also where Jerret had his infamous encounter with Vorden and the Hand of Tharnin, after Vorden had seized control of his mind.
The two Guardians held back, standing side by side with their swords drawn. Lannon glanced at them and shuddered, imagining the hideous reptiles that lurked beneath that gleaming armor.
As the king baited his hook, Lannon watched in fascination as Goratho the Dragon crept down to the edge of the stream and sniffed at the water. He tucked his wings at his sides, then dove in and went under, looking like a streak of gold shimmering beneath the surface. A moment later, his head popped up and he was holding a fish in his mouth. He tilted his head back and swallowed it. He devoured another fish, and then climbed out by the Knightly statue on the opposite bank and curled up at its feet to sleep.
"Such a lovely spot," said Verlamer, gazing at the sparkling river that ran between the craggy pine trunks. "Don't you think?"
"It's peaceful," said Lannon, trying to prove a point. "This was a peaceful kingdom."
"And it still is," said Verlamer. "There is no war here now--not even with Tharnin. In fact, I would say it is even more peaceful than before."
Lannon sighed, not knowing how to reason with the king. "Dremlock would never have bothered you. It is not our way to go seeking war."
"That's not the point," said Verlamer. "And it's not true. Dremlock didn't bother me because Cordus Landsaver is endlessly reluctant to get involved in affairs outside of Silverland. Another Lord Knight might have decided that Bellis was getting to big and opted to put an end to my expansion. Don't tell me you believe Dremlock has never interfered with the affairs of Bellis in the past?"
"I didn't say that," said Lannon. "I just said that Dremlock wasn't planning on going to war unless Bellis attacked first."
Verlamer chuckled. "It's all old news to me, Lannon. Cordus was more concerned with the Blood Legion. He wanted to eliminate the Legion completely before focusing on my kingdom. However, he failed miserably. It was a poor strategy from the start. You see--it was Dremlock that I truly feared. I knew the Divine Knights could come and end my expansion, but as my reach grew, and no Knights came, I began to grow more confident."
Knights: The Blood of Kings (Knights Series) Page 29