Stavin launched himself away from the priest and turned away, then walked out of the cell as the priest screamed, “You can’t do this! You can’t defy Lebawan!”
Stavin looked over his shoulder and snarled, “Watch me.” Then he slammed the door and threw the bolt.
Chapter 12
LADY DAYNAH AND LADY SARALEE RETURNED to the palace courtyard and walked over to the carriage. As soon as Princess Ellissan recognized them, she burst into tears and ran to hug Saralee. Daynah joined the hug as the young princess cried her heart out in their arms.
Princess Sharindis walked up and stopped a pace away. “Did you find anyone?”
Lady Saralee shook her head as she looked at Shari. “No one of any use. Just the priests of Lebawan and their followers.”
Princess Ellissan choked out, “He was leaving,” past her tears. “They were proclaiming Karvar Zel’Draval the new King of Coravia. They said,” the princess broke down and sobbed again, then continued in a savage tone. “He said we were defective! They said Mommy and Daddy were dead!” She broke down and cried in Saralee’s arms again.
Troopers and guardsmen were dragging bodies out of the palace, stacking them like trash against a wall well away from the carriage.
One group of guardsmen brought out a blanket-wrapped bundle and laid it gently against the wall in front of the carriage. The horses reacted to the smell, shaking the carriage and drawing Shari’s attention.
Sharindis walked over and softly asked, “Who is it?”
“We think it’s the queen,” Major Zel’Astel answered just as softly. “We don’t know for certain, though. None of us has ever met her.”
Sharindis nodded, then walked over to Lady Daynah. She laid a hand on the young woman’s shoulder and said, “I need your help.” Lady Daynah nodded, then they walked over to Major Zel’Astel. Without a word, he pulled the blanket away from the woman’s face.
Lady Daynah sobbed, “Rowena!” and turned away.
Princess Ellissan heard Daynah’s choked cry and completely broke down in Saralee’s arms.
Major Zel’Astel walked over and bowed very low as he said, “Princess Ellissan, your father is alive. He’s injured, but he lives, and he knows himself.”
Everyone’s attention was on the princesses, so no one noticed the figure creeping up on Karlin until it was too late. Karlin’s scream was their only warning.
A man in elaborate robes grabbed Karlin and held him up as a shield, shouting, “Drop your weapons! Drop them, I say! I’ll tear his heart out!”
Sharindis was momentarily terrified, then her terror turned to rage. A scream ripped from her throat as she charged toward the man who dared to touch her child.
The man’s hand glowed crimson for a moment, then he clawed at Karlin’s chest. Nothing happened. He was looking at his hand in stunned disbelief when the top blade of Shari’s Dragon’s Tongue drove through his eye into his brain, and she shoved it to the side, cutting the fool’s brain in half.
Karlin landed on his feet when the mage fell, and ran into his mother’s embrace as she knelt, then burst into tears. All the guardswomen had come to Karlin’s assistance, and now they gathered around mother and son, facing outward with bared weapons. Every woman there looked ready to kill anyone who threatened their charges.
Saralee and Daynah brought Princess Ellissan over as well. Ellissan was looking at the scene with wide, shocked eyes. “How did you do that? Why would you risk it?”
Master Sergeant Zel’Halvis looked at her and said, “Never mess with a mamma dragon’s chicks.”
Sharindis eased her grip on Karlin and said, “Princess Ellissan, come here for a moment.” When the younger princess was close, Shari turned Karlin to face her. On the boy’s chest, right over his heart, the cloth was burned away to reveal brightly gleaming golden mail. “Stavin’s mail is still a little big for him, but it fits well enough.”
“Dragon scale,” Princess Ellissan murmured. “Dragon scale resists the magic of Lebawan’s magi.”
Shari nodded. “And much more powerful magi as well.” Shari spent a few moments describing Stavin’ encounter with the priests of the Evilest One. “That mage was a Black Adept of the Evilest One, and all he could do was slow Stavi down a little.”
Major Zel’Astel was searching the body, and presented Shari with what he found. He said, “Typical,” in a disgusted tone as he held out a large double-handful of gold and jewels. “He was just a thief masquerading as a Priest-Mage.”
“It’s Lebawan’s way,” one of the wagon drivers said, drawing everyone’s attention. He bowed deeply, then continued. “Lebawan’s priests confiscate the property of anyone they condemn. That’s how they hold onto their power. If you defy them, they’ll find something defective about you, stone you to death, and then take everything you have for themselves.” The man shook his head. “My brother lost his life and farm to one of the Cutter’s priests.”
It took until nightfall for the search to be completed. Stavin and Karvik returned to the carriage, and the haunted looks both men wore made Sharindis rush to take Stavin in her arms.
“What did you find?” she asked in a husky whisper, her lips almost touching his helmet.
“Death,” was all Stavin would say for a few moments. “They filled the dungeons with the Chosen. Lesser clans were just told to convert or die. And hundreds died.”
“Prince Stavin?” Princess Ellissan asked as she stepped closer. “My father and Cal?”
Stavin closed his eyes briefly, then said, “Your father is with the Healers. He’s in bad shape. Your brother,” Stavin had to pause for a moment and shake his head. “They told your father that Prince Caldan was defective and they,” Stavin had to pause again, “they made him watch while stoned him.”
Princess Ellissan broke down crying again, all but screaming, “It was just a mole!” Lady Daynah and Lady Saralee rushed to comfort her, holding her between them as she cried.
Stavin looked around at his Guards and said, “I don’t trust the palace yet. There are too many places to hide. Set camp out here and stay alert. We didn’t find many of the higher priests, and there is supposed to be at least one mage with them.”
“Mommy took care of the mage, Daddy,” Karlin said, drawing Stavin’s attention.
“Shari?” Stavin asked in a stunned tone.
“He grabbed Karli when they brought out Queen Rowena. He tried to tear his heart out! Thank the Gods Above you insisted Karli wear your mail.”
Stavin looked around and demanded, “Where is he?” as his growl intensified.
“In the trash heap with the rest of Lebawan’s filth.” Shari looked at her husband. “You don’t think I’d let him live, do you?”
Stavin let just a hint of a grin lift his lips. “No, I know you better than that.”
Avrin walked over and bowed. “Prince Stavin, a meal is ready.”
Stavin looked at the sky and shook his head. “Short day. Kar?”
“Yes, Prince Stavin?”
“Double the sentries, fast rotation. Consult with the Healers about bringing the wounded out here. I won’t feel safe until Zel’Draval is caught.”
“Yes, Prince Stavin.”
The chief Healer found Stavin before the meal was served. “Prince Stavin, you asked to be informed as to the king’s condition.” He paused until Stavin bowed his head for the man to continue. “Prince Stavin, King Teravan is grievously injured. We’ve cast the most powerful Healing Spells we command, but even our best efforts may be futile. King Teravan,” he paused and seemed to search for the right words before continuing, “the king doesn’t seem to want to live. What was done to him, to his wife and son, seems to be destroying his will to live. I just don’t know for certain that we can save him from himself.”
Stavin looked at the Healer and said, “Do everything you can. Coravia needs her king.”
The meal was basic, but filling: a soldier’s meal. Princess Ellissan sat beside her father, carefully feeding him as they spok
e in low tones. It was late when the king asked for Stavin and all of the Chosen in the courtyard to attend him.
“Prince Stavin Zel’Andral,” the king wheezed, “Coravia is in peril. I am too grievously injured to take back what is mine, and my only surviving child is too young. Here, in front of these Chosen witnesses, I abdicate in your favor and proclaim you King of Coravia.” The king had to stop speaking as he gasped for breath for a few terrifying moments. “Coravia must have a strong king to take back what Zel’Draval has stolen, and I must have a true successor before I die.”
Stavin was stunned speechless for a moment. What! Then he bowed deeply. “I shall take back what Zel’Draval has stolen and hold it in trust for the Chosen Clan of Darvin.” Stavin looked around to ensure everyone was listening and said, “All of you bear witness,” before he turned back to the king and continued. “King Teravan, when you are well, I will abdicate in your favor, or in favor of Princess Ellissan upon her majority if you are not available. This I swear on my honor, and the honor of the Chosen Clan of Andral.”
King Teravan whispered, “Save the kingdom, King Stavin. That’s all that matters.”
Princess Ellissan started to say something, but shook her head as she changed her mind. Then her attention was drawn back to her father. “Daddy?” she asked softly.
King Teravan lapsed into unconsciousness and a Healer wormed his way to the king’s side. “He is just unconscious, Your Majesty. What are your commands?”
Stavin looked at the Healer, then briefly at Princess Ellissan, then bowed his head. “Save him. Save King Teravan no matter what it takes.” Looking around, Stavin spotted a very disturbed looking Captain Zel’Corval.
“Captain, get the word out to all commands that Zel’Draval is to be captured--alive if possible. What is the nearest fort?”
“Fort Kel’Harvan is two days’ ride south, Your Majesty.”
Stavin shook his head, but let it go. “I want someone to find the General of the Army’s message book.” Stavin grinned at the captain. “Zel’Draval may have a head start, but the book will put us in the lead.”
The captain smiled, then turned to his junior officers. “You heard the king. Find and search Lord General Zel’Manal’s office, and that of his clerk. Find the message book and bring it to me.” The young officers bowed, then headed into the palace.
Turning back to Stavin, Captain Zel’Corval bowed. “May I suggest sending riders through the city? The people obviously know that Zel’Draval took the palace. I believe they should be told that we’ve taken it back, and that you are now their king, Your Majesty.”
Stavin muttered, “I’ve barely gotten used to being called ‘Your Highness’ and now this?” as he held his hands out as if holding something. Gods Above, what next? Turning to face the captain, he nodded once. “See to it. Tell any troops who are loyal to the king to join us here. We need to find Zel’Draval.”
“At once, King Stavin.”
Sharindis was looking at Stavin with barely controlled mirth on her face. Stavin just shook his head and said, “Don’t laugh, Queen Sharindis.”
Sharindis laughed loudly at that. “I think it’s a wonderful thing, Stavi. But you’re right,” she looked over toward Princess Ellissan, “it’s only temporary.”
Princess Ellissan walked over and touched Stavin’s arm. When he looked up at her, she said, “King Stavin, my father has placed the fate of our kingdom in your hands. Please, you must defeat Lebawan’s priests. You can’t let them turn Coravia into Lebawan’s hell.”
Stavin nodded and said, “We will.”
Chapter 13
THE NIGHT WAS QUIET. AT THE captain’s suggestion, Stavin had decided to save the announcement until morning, so the city was as quiet as a graveyard. It seemed that no one wanted to draw the attention of Lebawan’s priests.
Stavin was awake long after Shari and the children had fallen asleep. He didn’t want to disturb Shari, so he went out by the fire. He couldn’t stop thinking about this newest twist in his fate. King Stavin. “Gods Above protect Coravia,” he whispered.
A familiar voice replied, “I think they are.”
“Couldn’t sleep either?”
“Took night watch myself. It’s been an exciting day,” Karvik said as he moved closer to Stavin’s side.
Stavin spoke in a sour tone as he said, “You have an astounding talent for understatement, Kar.”
“You know, ‘King Stavin’ has a nice ring to it,” Karvik said in a soft tone. He moved so he was looking down at Stavin’s face. His face was hidden by the front of his helmet, so Stavin couldn’t see his expression.
Stavin snorted, though in amusement or contempt wasn’t obvious. “Sure. Can you imagine me facing Kalin as an equal? Besides, Coravia deserves better than me. Yes, I studied crown management dutifully while I was Marina’s heir, but if something had happened I would have had Dahvin and all the councilors to keep me from making a mess of things. Here,” he waved his hand in a circle, “the best councilor I have is a teenage girl.”
Karvik nodded as he stepped closer. “Just checking.” He patted Stavin’s shoulder, then moved on into the night.
Stavin went back to bed and finally went to sleep, only to dream of sitting on the throne and not being able to lead.
Morning arrived with a crash when a cook’s apprentice tripped and dropped a pan. Stavin heard the cook berating the boy, and smiled as he sat up.
Shari opened her eyes and said, “I hate sleeping next to the kitchen. At least I don’t have to get up and cook.”
Stavin nodded, then got up and quickly dressed in his armor. He again left his mail off, leaving it for Karlin. He walked out of the tent and found all the Royal Guards gathered around him, and the Coravian cavalry gathered around them.
Stavin felt self-conscious for the first time in years. He bowed and said, “Good morning.”
“Good morning, Your Majesty,” a hundred and forty voices replied.
Stavin managed not to sigh. “I want riders in groups of five patrolling the city, announcing that Lebawan no longer holds sway here. Have them direct any loyal troops to the palace.”
Captain Zel’Corval walked up to Stavin and bowed. “I’ve detailed twenty-five men to make the announcement, Your Majesty. I’d like to send the rest into the palace and continue the search for missing lords and ladies, as well as the palace staff.”
Stavin nodded and said, “Very well. But send someone to get some wagons to get those bodies out of here first,” he waved toward the pile of Lebawan’s followers, “and make arrangements to properly honor Queen Rowena.”
Captain Zel’Corval bowed deeply. “As you command, King Stavin.” He stepped closer and looked down into Stavin’s eyes before softly saying, “And thank you.”
Stavin went to check his horse, ignoring the shocked looks he was receiving. No one was daring enough to challenge his right to tend to his own mount, but he could tell most of the troopers disapproved. The Royal Guards just shook their heads in mock despair.
Princess Ellissan came out of the tent Lady Daynah and Lady Saralee had been sharing, and Stavin nodded. He hadn’t noticed where she had gone to bed.
“Good morning, Princess Ellissan,” he said with a bow.
“Good morning, King Stavin. Have you decided what to do about that murdering scum Zel’Draval?”
Stavin shrugged. “I’m leaning toward beheading, or possibly disembowelment like he did to--” Stavin stopped before he said it, but she knew.
“Like he did to my mom,” she whispered.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t want you or your father to find out what--” She interrupted him in a bitter tone.
“It’s how they kill women who have brought defectives into the world, King Stavin. They shove a sword--” Now it was Stavin’s turn to interrupt.
“Shhh, don’t say it. I know. I saw.”
Princess Ellissan wiped a tear from her eye with an impatient gesture. She said, “I want to be there,” in a savage tone that mad
e Stavin step back.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Stavin murmured. “We’re going to have to chase him down if the army can’t intercept him.” Stavin thought for a moment, then shook his head. “That reminds me, I need the army message book.”
Princess Ellissan looked around, spotted a cavalry sergeant, and raised her hand minimally. The man immediately came to her side and went to one knee with his eyes on her feet. “You summoned me, Princess Ellissan?” he asked, keeping his head bowed.
“Yes, Sergeant. Find out what happened to the army message book. King Stavin ordered it found last night.”
The sergeant stood and bowed deeply to his princess, then even deeper to his new king. “At once, Your Highness. Your Majesty.” He bowed again, then turned and walked away.
Stavin escorted the princess over to where Shari and the maids were seeing to the children. Shari smiled and motioned to a chair that had been brought out of the palace. She said, “Please join us. Our servants can see to all of us.”
Princess Ellissan smiled sadly, then bowed and took the indicated seat. “I wish my maids had survived.”
“Hopefully they were just thrown into the dungeons,” Stavin said from behind her. “The troopers and guardsmen are still bringing people out.”
Princess Ellissan shook her head as a sad expression clouded her face. “Zel’Draval said only the Chosen were worth the effort. Anyone else who would not swear to Lebawan when asked the first time wasn’t worth asking a second time.” A tear slid down her cheek. “Our servants wouldn’t have joined him. All the royal servants are dead.”
Sahren walked over and climbed into Ellissan’s lap, hugging her neck. Ellissan began to cry, holding the little princess tightly as great sobs shook her from head to toe.
The Coravian Conflict (Stavin DragonBlessed Book 5) Page 12