The Great Game (The Way to Freedom Series Book 9)

by H. M. Clarke

  “I know. I know. But you did it to protect her. Remember that first and foremost Garrick.”

  Garrick gave him a short nod of understanding. He looked along the road at the large imposing city gates. The Imperial City of Hered sat proudly among an elegant array of elder trees and manicured gardens. Built of the whitest stone that flashed blindingly whenever the rays of the sun crossed its gleaming towers of the Old City, it was once built for elegance and luxury. Over the ages that had slowly changed.

  Defensive walls, gates, mazes, and death traps had been built around what was once, ornate outer walls and were so successful that the Old City had never been taken by force. The houses and trade districts of the New City were built around the old city like the open petals of a flower where most of Hered’s population lived. Sometimes these newer additions blended so well with the old that it was now hard to tell where the old finished and the new began.

  “I’m going to put things right Willard. I’m going to make sure that power and safety are placed back into our hands. Felian has remained too long unchecked and unchallenged.”

  “Garrick-“

  “I can’t believe father had let her have this much free rein. I. Am. Coming. To. Shut. Her. Down.” The outburst was enough to clear the last of his pain and frustration out of his system.

  “Feeling better now?”

  “Much.”

  “Garrick, once we go through these gates, you cannot give in to these thoughts. You need to be strong and ruthless.”

  “I know and I will be. I know what the risk of failure will mean.”

  “Just keep that in mind. I favor keeping my head attached to my neck, thank you very much.”

  Garrick knew he was supposed to laugh at the jest, but he could not bring himself to.

  “There is something happening at the gate.” Garrick gestured down the road where a large group of people had just started to stream out and line themselves up along the edge of the road. Malchance rose up in his stirrups to get a better look, and Garrick sent the Lieutenant of his Honor Guard down the road to find out what was going on. It was not long before the man was back. Captain Talon had moved up to ride on Garrick’s other side, effectively boxing him in a protective cordon with Duke Malchance. Garrick sat straighter in his saddle, glad that he was not the only one finding the glittering mass of people lining up around the gate alarming.

  “It might just be a welcoming party, Your Highness,” Captain Talon’s voice was low and not very reassuring,

  “They’ve never given me one before. At least not one this large.”

  “And that is an awful lot of people there carrying sharp, pointy objects,” Malchance said giving Garrick a grim smile.

  “Killing the Crown Prince in front of the main gate of Hered is not a popular political move Willard.” Garrick turned to his Captain.

  “Captain Talon, tell the men to be alert.”

  “Yes, Your Highness,” the Captain raised a hand and sent a signal back down the line to his men.

  “It is probably just Felian wanting to show a guard presence larger than mine.”

  “It may be larger, Your Highness, but your own men are better trained. They are the elite of the army.”

  Garrick tried not to smile at the pride in Talon’s voice. “That they are Talon. The fact that all my men always win the Guard’s Tourney is as good a statement as anything that they are the best.”

  The smug look that crossed Talon’s features improved Garrick’s mood no end. It made him feel much better prepared to meet whatever unpleasantness awaited him ahead.

  A dust cloud ahead told Garrick that his Lieutenant was returning and it was not long before his man’s horse came skidding to a stop next to his Captain.

  “Sir! A welcome party has been organized for Prince Garrick. It is being led by the Provost Justicar.”

  “Ranen?” Then Malchance burst out laughing. “We must have spooked him good to have him come out into the daylight.”

  “Lieutenant, return to the line. Make sure that the men are presenting their best face for the spectators.”

  “Yes, Sir!” The man gave a quick salute to his Captain and reined his horse to go back down the line, issuing orders to the two sergeants.

  “Talon, stay with us. I would like to hear your opinion later on your impressions.”

  “Yes, your highness.”

  “I can see his broodiness waiting right in front of the open gate.” Malchance sat back into his saddle and held his reins loosely in one hand. “What do you want to do Garrick? Rush up towards him or keep him waiting?”

  “We keep the same pace, we don’t want him thinking that his presence unnerves us. No sign of Felian then?”

  “None.”

  “I give thanks to the One for small blessings.”

  “You won’t be able to avoid her forever Garrick.”

  “I know, but I want to get a feel for what is happening in Hered and who I can still trust before I meet her again.”

  “She might not give you that wish.”

  “I’ll deal with her when the time comes. Anyway, it’s time to put on our smiles and our friendly façades.”

  “I don’t do friendly,” Garrick heard Talon mutter but at least the man allowed the permanent frown on his face to soften a little.

  “Try your best Captain.”

  A moment later, Garrick’s company was just passing into the line of soldiers that bordered the road on either side of them. Ahead lay the main gates to the city towering above them all and now standing open. Before those open gates stood Provost Justicar Renan and a small group of his lackeys, all dressed in the thick black robes of the Book. Garrick noted that the guard lining the approach road was Imperial Guard. Since when does the Provost Justicar warrant being accompanied by Imperial Guard? Though the guard might only be here because of him, Garrick was hit with the distinct impression that this company of guards was used to operating under the Provost Justicar’s orders.

  “Provost Justicar,” Garrick said in way of greeting as he signaled Shatal to stop not a horse head away from the man. Talon and Malchance stopped half a horse length back on either side of him.

  “Your Royal Highness.” Ranen dropped into a low bow in greeting. “We welcome you back home to the Imperial Capital. Your Father sends his greetings.”

  “But is not here himself it seems,” Garrick replied without emotion.

  “His Imperial Majesty is recovering from his most recent illness and it was deemed too risky for him to come out to meet you.”

  The mention of his father’s health bought that surge of anger rising back into Garrick’s chest. His father was as healthy as a horse. The man was being told constantly that he was old and frail, especially by a young, pretty woman who you thinks loves you, made him act like he was in his dotage.

  Garrick fought the rage, and once he had it back under control, he let a small smile come to his lips. “Once we have settled and made ourselves presentable by removing the dust of the road, we will go and see our Father.” Garrick made full use of the royal third person, using it to hammer home to all who heard that he was the Crown Prince and heir to the Imperial throne.

  “Lady Felian requests your presence before you pay homage to His Imperial Majesty, Prince Garrick.”

  From the corner of his eye, Garrick saw Malchance’s head jerk up in surprise. Garrick let the smile fall from his lips. How dare she do this so openly.

  “Felian can make arrangements with Duke Malchance if she wants to make an appointment to see me. If I have the time.”

  Garrick noted the lack of surprise that swept across Ranen’s face at his response.

  “Now. I am tired and in desperate need of a bath, and a nice meal.”

  The Provost Justicar stood in the middle of the road, clearly undecided at what to do. Felian’s instructions obviously failed to cover him not wanting to follow Ranen to a meeting with her. Garrick waited a moment longer and when Ranen still did not move Garrick nudged Shatal
forward, forcing the Provost Justicar to the side of the road to stand with the guard.

  As he and his men entered the city, a large roar went up from the thousands of people lining the Emperor’s Way to greet their Beloved Crown Prince.

  “At least the people love you,” Garrick heard Malchance say loudly over the din.

  “For now at least, we’ll see if they truly still love me after what I have planned comes to fruition.

  CHAPTER FIVE

  GARRICK SLIPPED THE clean shirt over his head and then used his fingers to tousle his still wet hair. He flopped onto the bed and quickly pulled on the clean pants that had laid out by one of the servants before his bath.

  “Willard. You still out there?” Garrick called out as he was pulling on his boots.

  “....Yes.” Malchance’s response was not immediate and that made Garrick’s head jerk up in concern. In one fluid motion, he stood up from the bed and scooped up the lounging robe that he had tossed onto a nearby divan and then threaded it around his body as he made his way to the bedroom door and flung it open.

  “Willard-“

  Garrick’s words stuck in his throat as he caught sight of Malchance and the person standing with him.

  “Prince Garrick, the Lady Felian to see you,” Malchance said giving him a formal bow. Felian dipped into a deep curtsey, artfully showing the ample bosom popping out from her tightly laced bodice.

  Garrick let his hand drop from the door and quickly folded the robe tightly around him and tying it securely shut. It was small enough protection against the serpent in the room, but the thick material of the robe would help turn a dagger if she had one.

  “Felian,” Garrick said by way of greeting.

  Felian straightened and then took a few steps forward, completely ignoring Malchance as inconsequential.

  “Your Highness. I am so glad to see you return to the Capital. Your father has been complaining that he does not see enough of you.”

  “We were getting ready to see him now. I take it you are arranging with Duke Malchance to make an appointment to see me?”

  “Do I really need to make an appointment?” she said moving forward again and running a finger gently up Garrick’s arm. “Surely we can speak together as friends?” The finger moved to his shoulder and then slid slowly down his chest.

  Garrick caught her hand and deliberately but forcefully moved it back to her. “You need to make an appointment Felian if you wish to speak seriously with me.”

  “Are you sure? I’m sure we can find a more enjoyable way to discuss our business.”

  Garrick gave her a grim smile. “I’m sure Felian. And considering how little effort you put into seducing me this time, you were sure of what my response would be.”

  Felian gave him one of her seductive smiles and tucked a lock of blonde hair that had escaped her immaculate coiffed looks back behind her ear. The combination of silk and sheer material draped around her curves showing them to best effect. At first glance, she would draw the eye of most men. But on knowing her, Felian’s appeal fails. Garrick’s eyes were more drawn to Malchance who was standing behind her pulling a face.

  “I still have to try darling. A handsome man like you just calls to be seduced. And I am not averse to mixing fun with business.”

  “I prefer to keep business separate Felian. And I have a policy of not sleeping with my father’s women.”

  “Shame darling.” Felian let the words linger in her mouth and then she turned and walked to the window. The light from which diffused through the sheer material and accentuated her body. The move might have worked on other men. But not Garrick.

  “I am busy. Either make an appointment with Duke Malchance to see me later or I’ll order my guard to escort you out.”

  “Testy. I’ll go, just know this Garrick. It would be better for us both if we work together. You could have your army and power, all you have to do is work with me.”

  Garrick frowned and every muscle in his back stiffened.

  “I am Garrick Thurad. Crown Prince of Suene and its imperial holdings. By law, I am first in line to my father and that is something that neither you nor he can ever change.” Garrick’s voice was low and deep and anyone who knew him would know that he was containing a focused anger. “Anyone who actively works against me is committing treason, and will be prosecuted to the utmost extent by the law.”

  From the corner of his eye, Garrick saw Malchance wince. He should not have made the threat, but something within Garrick moved him to say it.

  “I only act for the defense of our country and way of life Garrick.”

  “Anyone who acts against the throne is committing treason Felian. Anyone.”

  “And your obsession with dismantling the Kalarthri and the Second Born Rule will pull our nation into chaos.”

  “Afraid that you will lose your state funded administrators Felian? You should be. Because once I am Emperor your source of imperial funding will be permanently dried up.”

  “You would do well to remember that you are not Emperor yet.”

  “Are you making a threat to the Crown Prince?” Malchance said as he moved to place himself between Garrick and Felian.

  “No darling, of course not,” she said putting on her most sickeningly sweet smile. “Just making him aware that things can change. No one can predict the future.”

  Garrick watched as she flicked open her embroidered fan and began to fan herself

  “I see you are busy. I will return later. Prince Garrick, Duke Malchance.” Felian dropped into a small curtsey and then disappeared out of the receiving room.

  Garrick waited until he could hear the outer door bang shut and his guard came to signal that Felian was gone.

  “By the One, what was she doing here?” Garrick said once the guard had shut the door.

  “She wouldn’t have come here unless we, or something else, has her rattled. We must have her worried since she came herself instead of sending one of her flunkies.”

  “I can’t stand the woman. What did she mean by saying I’m not Emperor yet? I know I’m not the emperor, and I hope not to be emperor for a long while yet. But I don’t want my country in the hands of that woman, and father needs to take back control.”

  “We can discuss things with your father soon. But don’t jump straight into the topic. You haven’t seen your father in over a year, please make some small talk first.”

  “Very well Willard. I wasn’t going too. I can think for myself you know.”

  “Sorry Garrick,” Malchance said raising his hands in a placating gesture. “I’m just nervous about what you’ll find when you meet your father.”

  “It will be fine. Especially since this time I’m going to stay until Felian’s power has been curtailed. I’m not going to take my father’s word for it this time.”

  “What about the Northern threat? If your father gives you command of the Northern Army, then you’ll have to go.”

  “I’ll delegate command to Oded until I’m sure things are stable enough here in Hered.”

  Malchance glared at Garrick. “Are you sure that’s a good idea? Her cronies might use that as an excuse to take power away from you.”

  “Let them try. Just let them.”

  CHAPTER SIX

  THE EMPEROR’S PERSONAL apartments were not far from Prince Garrick’s suites. The prince now stood waiting in his father’s receiving room along with Duke Malchance, Captain Talon and some of his select personal guard. The room was opulent and lush in bold reds and gold and it was still exactly the way Garrick remembered it from his childhood. The room had not been touched since his mother had last redecorated it. Garrick was glad that at least Felian had not got her claws into this. Father was not completely under her control.

  The wait was not long.

  The large double doors at the far end of the room opened and a clean faced freeman that Garrick did not recognize came through it.

  “The Emperor is ready to see you now,” the man said while swe
eping down into a low bow.

  Garrick gave the man a nod and then gave Malchance a meaningful glance. He then strode towards the door, Malchance fell in behind him and Captain Talon and his chosen men followed directly behind them.

  The new room was large and spacious with a large fire roaring in the grate and plush arm chairs placed around it to get maximum warmth. Spaced around the walls were several footmen, waiting to jump to the Emperor’s every whim. The tattoos on their cheeks showed them to be Kalarthri. But Garrick’s eyes were drawn to the chair placed closest to the fire.

  “Hello, my boy. Come, sit down.”

  Garrick’s father patted the arm of the chair next to him as he talked and as he moved, the blanket covering him slipped to reveal old stains in the lounging robe he wore.

  Garrick frowned but quickly sat in the chair offered by his father. Malchance and the others stayed where they stood. Protocol dictated that they had to remain standing in the Emperor’s presence unless told otherwise. As he made himself comfortable in the chair, Garrick noted that his father’s hair was unwashed and oily and his beard and mustaches had not been trimmed or cleaned.

  “Hello father,” he said. “How are you? Ranen said that you had been feeling ill.”

  “Phish,” Groudin said waving away his son’s concern with a weak wave of his hand. “I’m feeling fine. All these fusspots worrying about me falling ill. It’s damned annoying.”

  “So, you haven’t been sick?”

  “Just a cold, nothing more. But I haven’t seen you in a dog’s age, Garrick. Catch me up on all the news.”

  “The news?”

  “Yes, tell me all that has happened since you were last here.”

  Garrick was suddenly thrown into confusion. Surely his father would want to talk about the war? Garrick threw a look at Malchance who gave him an imperceptible shake of his head.

  Garrick turned back to his father. “I’ve seen Harada. He’s doing well.”

  “Harada! You need to tell him to come and see me. I can’t remember the last time he came back home.”