“Well, Your Excellence, the patrols report increased Nephilim presence on the western borders. They have been seen in the company of Orcs, Hobgoblins, and even Ogres. They seem to be cooperating at a level we have not seen before. Tellik Sharpeye, the scout commander, even reported that Orcs bearing shields of formerly warring clans are traveling together as a single force. This matches the reports we had yesterday from the eastern patrols. Of course, I am but a simple soldier and defer to the wisdom of Field Marshal Bonecrusher, but in my estimation, I believe Stonehold needs to be prepared for an organized attack against our city.”
The field marshal’s booming baritone voice was the first to respond to the disturbing report.
“This does bode ill. We had originally planned to send you with additional wagons and the full one-hundred bezrek of Third Company led by Captain Silvermane, but in light of this news, I would say we cannot spare those men. If, Captain, you still desire and intend to accompany your brother on this mission, then I am afraid we can only spare twenty men from Third Company to go with you. We will put Sergeant Sharpaxe in charge of the remainder of Third Company during your absence. He is an able and experienced field commander.”
“I do still intend to go,” Donovan replied, “with your leave, field marshal. I would like to hand pick my twenty men, and I give my word we will well represent the Berserker Corps and Stonehold on this mission.”
At this point, the thing Duncan dreaded most happened. Xyer Garan spoke.
“I believe in light of the reports from the fine Durgak scouts, we might need to reconsider this mission.”
His odd emphasis on the name of the race spoke to the group that his respectful use of the proper term was only an undergirding to whatever it was he was planning to propose to the council and not in any way out of genuine respect.
“To continue this mission west at this time,” Garan continued, “is reckless and unwise. Clearly, if there is an organized cooperation of Nephelim and goblinoids working together, then whatever threat there had been to the caravans has been magnified. To venture west with such a small force would be as I have said before, a fool’s errand, a true a suicide mission.”
Odon Longnose twitched in his seat as he addressed the council. He had a look about him of a cat about to pounce on a wounded mouse.
“The Ministry of Commerce has recorded that the reduction of revenues due to the disappearance of westbound caravans combined with the reductions of eastbound caravans as nations of the west begin to stockpile their goods against the supply shortage has impacted Stonehold’s economy greatly. We depend on the caravans for our own goods, and while travel to Stonehold is apparently still safe for the moment, few nations have been willing to dispatch caravans here since these troubles began.
“If it was the decision of the collected nations at the council in Aton-Ri to put forth this company to deal with the troubles, a council, which included Ambassador Farspeaker representing Stonehold by the way, then I urge we honor the decision agreed upon and move forward with ending this matter the soonest possible.”
The driving factor behind Longnose’s urgings was clear. His coin pouch was being negatively impacted, and as long as someone else was risking their lives to restore his livelihood, he was all for it.
“The news is even graver than Captain Silvermane has told us,” Farris Stonebender added. “My men at our listening posts in the tunnels along our borders indicate sounds of unregistered mining, which seems to be approaching Stonehold’s eastern and western borders. Either there is an unprecedented number of rogue Durgak working unregistered mines near the city, or more likely goblinoids are tunneling deliberately to enter the city. I have asked Field Marshal Bonecrusher to put a company of troops at the disposal of the Ministry of Mining should we detect an imminent breach. According to our listeners, at the current rate, such a breach is likely still weeks away, but the Field Marshal has asked that the Ministry of Mining keep him apprised and that troops would be ready to respond should it become necessary.”
High Priest Othblest, with a concerned and thoughtful look on his face, cleared his throat and addressed the assembly in a calm but clear voice.
“Priest Duncan, I believe your large companion raises a valid point. If battle comes to Stonehold, we will certainly need all the soldiers we can muster but just as importantly, we will need healers here. I would urge you and your companions to reconsider this mission. We could use their strength here to protect the city, and we could use your healing oth to succor the wounded. Will youheed my counsel and stay?”
Duncan stood in silence for a few moments, which to him seemed like hours. While Xyer Garan may have provided the spark, it would be Duncan who caused the imminent embarrassment by defying the high priest. He knew this mission needed to continue, but how could he go against the spiritual leader of the city. He lifted a quick, silent prayer heavenward before addressing the high priest.
“Your Eminence, is this the word you have received in answer to your prayers for counsel from the One Lord? If so, I must respect your word, but I myself have received no such instruction directly.”
“No, my son,” the high priest continued, “what I have been told in answer to my prayers is that your heart will lead rightly, and you must follow it. For this reason, the counsel I offer for you to stay is my own, and I know it echoes the words of your companion as well as the heart of your father. Ultimately though, you must follow your own heart, and the church will respect and honor that decision and defend it before the council as the will of the One Lord.”
Duncan cringed at the mention of his father. He knew that his father did not want him joining the priesthood and wanted even less that he go on a valor quest without the military training that his older brothers had all received. He knew his father loved him, but his concern for Duncan’s safety put him at odds with Duncan’s heart.
There was no doubt at all where Duncan’s desire was in this matter. They had set out to destroy whatever was threatening the caravans. He was the only healer in the entire company. He would see their mission through to the end. With the certainty of his heart and the confirming words of High Priest Othblest, Duncan was sure he was walking in the will of the One Lord.
“Thank you, Your Eminence. My heart is clear on this. We must complete the mission we have been given to restore both Stonehold and our neighboring nations to safety and security.”
The high priest nodded in assent, but the concerned look remained on his face.
Guntur Bonecrusher looked impressed at the young Durgak’s courage.
“You may hold the office of priest, Master Silvermane, but you have the heart of a warrior. Each of your brothers has served honorably during my time as field marshal, and Donovan serves us still. I would be proud to have the youngest Silvermane in our service, whether it be as soldier or priest. Go with your brother and with the blessing of the Stonehold Defense Force.”
Chancellor Longfather then ruled on the matter.
“Duncan Silvermane, as your heart leads for the completion of this mission and as High Priest Othblest has stated that this is also the will of the One Lord that you follow your heart, then you shall indeed go with our blessings. Field Marshal Bonecrusher will arrange for troops and a scout to meet you at the west gate at dawn. Captain Donovan will lead them, but as you walk in the guidance of the One Lord for this mission, your brother will follow your command. Is that understood, Captain Donovan?” Donovan acknowledged his agreement. “Well, then, barring any further items of business the decision is made, and the council is adjourned. Geblig will see to the complete provisioning of the caravan and preparations needed. You fellows and your troops enjoy the remainder of the day in Stonehold. The city is at your disposal, and whatever food and drink you take this day will be at the expense of the council. Good luck, and may the One Lord speed your journey to a successful end.”
Without waiting for anyone to raise any further discussion, the members of the council rose and exited the chamber
s from a rear door located behind their seats. There was not any time for Garan to object further, and with the high priest’s affirmation, nothing short of changing Duncan’s mind would influence the decision of the council anyway. Garan seethed with displeasure but stomped silently out of the council chambers without as much as a backward glance at his companions.
“Well, maybe he will be mad enough to take his marbles and go home,” quipped Thatcher. The rest of the company understood the gist of the comment, and by the sarcastic smirk on the young thief’s face, they figured he had just made a joke, and they laughed politely. With that, it was time for each to go their own way until the morning.
“I have heard the temple to the One Lord in Stonehold is a grand sight to behold,” remarked Gideon.
“Aye, it is at that,” Duncan answered, “but unfortunately, captain, Donovan and I are expected at our father’s home for dinner this evening. I cannot accompany you.”
“No worries,” answered Captain Tropham. “I have been to the temple many times, so I can guide you. I never tire of seeing the amazing Durgak architecture. We can see the temple and be back in time for me to brief and prepare my troops for the morning departure.” With that, the two captains peeled off from the group in the direction of the temple.
“If you all would excuse me, I have some shopping to do,” said Melizar.
“Shopping?” Duncan asked. “I would not have taken you for a collector of Durgak merchandise.”
“Your people dig deep and often unearth rare metals and components needed for some of my kashaph spells. Doubtless if they knew this, they might cease selling them, but until then I might find some useful things in Stonehold, as long as I don’t explain why I want them.”
“Very well,” Duncan said, bristling at the thought that Durgak merchants would be unwittingly duped into supporting forbidden kashaph powers, but choosing to let this one slide. “You will find the commerce district on the west side of the city. The mining stalls are on the south side of the market.” Melizar thanked Duncan and took his leave.
“Well, kid,” Goldain said to Thatcher. “That leaves you and me. Looks like it is time for your next lesson. Chancellor Longfather said the drinks were on him, and you can’t master the long blade until you can master Durgak ale. That is our opponent tonight, and it will be a long fight worthy of remembrance in song. A good thing that, since I doubt we will remember much of it ourselves.”
Duncan pointed them to the Mountain Spring tavern, which served the best ale in Stonehold. Given their past exploits, Goldain trusted Duncan’s judgment and experience on this matter and took the boy off in the direction of the Mountain Spring.
After dropping by to alert the rest of the company of the instruction to enjoy the fruits of Stonehold at they will at the expense of the council, Duncan and Donovan proceeded toward their father’s home. Duncan’s heart grew heavier with every step.
“You know this is going to go badly, don’t you?” Duncan asked his brother. “And whatever you do, please don’t mention that the council said that you report to me during this mission. It will positively send da’ into a tizzy he is likely never to recover from.”
“You, boyo,” Donovan smiled as he replied, “ just need to remember not to get too cheeky with da’. You know he is going to start in on you, and you know Colvin is going to get the others drawn into the mix. You just keep your head about you and your biting wit in check, and we will get through this together. You and me against the world, boyo, just like old times.”
Donovan had always been there for Duncan. When the other kids mocked Duncan’s bookwormish tendencies, Donovan was always there, defending him. The few times the Durgak youths took their bullying too far, it was Donovan marching to the rescue to deliver a well-deserved thrashing to anyone who dared to lift a hand to his little brother. Donovan had also been the only brother to stand up to their da’ when the patriarch of the Silvermane family opposed Duncan’s choice to join priesthood. Duncan knew in his heart that whatever else happened tonight or on the rest of this journey, Donovan had his back.
“You know,” Duncan replied, “I can surely take Colvin and the others ribbing away. I have faced that my whole life. I can even take da’s disappointed looks and backhand comments. But you know that sniveling sycophant Banig Rockrender, who stumbled somehow into the unbelievable luck of marrying our sister Ruby, is going to do whatever he can to suck up to da’ and to our brothers. It is when he starts adding his two copper pieces in trying to earn favor with da’, that will be the point where my resolve to keep peace may break down.”
“Heh, you let me worry about Banig. I already told weasel that if he opens his mouth against you tonight, he will go to bed bruised tomorrow. You should have seen it. I thought he was going to wet himself and faint on the spot!”
Donovan and Duncan shared a well-needed laugh, which bolstered their spirits as they approached the front door of the Silvermane home.
The house was impressive. While the Silvermanes were not the richest family in Stonehold by far, they were definitely part of the upper crust of society. Duncan remembered well the tale of how a young Godart Silvermane, Duncan’s father, had petitioned the Ministry of Mining for a tract of rocks that was far up the southern peaks bordering Stonehold. It was a rough and rugged climb, even for a Durgak, and getting tools and diggers up there was a nightmare. But something in the young Silvermane told him that was the place to dig. The ministry approved his claim and allotted to Godart the requested southern tract.
Back then, Godart Silvermane was young and ambitious and in love. His father had been a moderately successful miner as the Silvermanes had always been, but it was Godart’s dream to strike it rich, to elevate the Silvermane family to qualify him for the position of Minister of Mining. He was also determined to marry the lovely Lapis Deepgem.
When he struck a vein of Durium in that southern claim, Godart realized all of those dreams. In fact, he had just three years ago ended his term as Minister of Mining after serving three terms; replaced by his cousin Farris Stonebender, after whom Godart’s third son had been named.
As Duncan and Donovan, the two youngest Silvermane brothers, entered their family home, they were greeted warmly by their mother Lapis and their sister Ruby. Beryl, the wife of their oldest and only married brother Colvin, was also there but did not join in the warm greeting. The ladies had been working all day to prepare the meal as it was the first time in nearly a year that all of the Silvermane family would be together to share a meal. Duncan and Donovan were told that their father and brothers had just sat down at the table and that they should join them right away. That meant Lapis Silvermane’s famous fare was soon to follow.
As they entered the dining room, the conversation currently underway suddenly stopped. On the serving table sat a full keg of ale, bearing the stamp of the Mountain Spring brewery. The two brothers greeted their father and brothers and proceeded to fill their mugs before taking their seats.
A Durgak table was generally quiet at mealtime unless there was something important to be said. Duncan hoped this evening would follow that time-honored tradition as he did not relish what would undoubtedly be the topic of conversation should one arise. Duncan was sorely disappointed as his father began the conversation.
“Cousin Farris tells me you are leading this venture westward, Duncan. He also says that apparently not even all in your company are in agreement.”
For beings with such short legs, news certainly traveled fast among the Durgak. They had hardly spent half an hour directing their compatriots where to find what they were looking for in the city before heading straight home, yet somehow word had already gotten to his father about the discussions at the meeting. So much for a quiet meal.
“Actually, da’, I am merely a member of the company. We have experienced and confident warriors and officers leading the expedition. Captain Gideon is a paladin from Parynland, and Goldain is a prince of the Qarahni. Captain Tropham is a commander of an elite mil
itary squad of Adami from Aton-Ri. Don’t worry. The expedition is in good and experienced hands.”
“And which one of these fine officers is it who thinks you shouldn’t be going?”
Duncan’s attempt to steer the conversation away from Xyer Garan had obviously failed. There was no way out of this mess but through it. Donovan gave him a reassuring tap on his leg underneath the table. Duncan took a deep breath and continued.
“Well, da’, there is this mercenary from Cyria, Captain Garan, who seems to take pleasure in disagreeing with everything. If I told him that diamond was hard, he would swear it was soft as cotton.”
Duncan realized as soon as he had said it that it was the wrong thing to say. Donovan had always appreciated his sense of humor, and to some degree shared it, but most Durgak, his father in particular, were rather dour and serious and felt there was no place for humor in serious discussions. Duncan’t eldest brother, Colvin, saw an opening and took it.
“Be that as it may. Where there is dissention in the ranks there is seed for trouble. We military-trained men know this all too well, don’t we, da’?”
Colvin Silvermane never ran out of energy finding ways to curry favor with their father and simultaneously look down upon Duncan. While he was the eldest and stood to inherit a double-portion of the family inheritance as his birthright, he was the least successful miner of all the brothers, other than Donovan and Duncan who had not turned yet to full-time mining. Even that worthless brother-in-law of theirs, Banig, had filed a successful silver mine claim and was contributing in some small part to Ruby’s secure future. Colvin, however, had filed at least half a dozen claims on new territories, but so far, each one had turned up dry. While the Silvermanes were known to have a nose for valuables, it was said Colvin only had a nose for rocks. Duncan and Donovan had joked amongst themselves that if granite ever became scarce, Colvin would be the richest among them.
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