Kaewyn rode slowly beside a particularly nervous Yohren as the olive-skinned young man struggled desperately to stay in the saddle. Kaewyn smiled and laughed every time Yohren shuffled awkwardly in an attempt to stay on his horse. If Yohren were to be his retainer then he would have to learn how to ride properly before long. The ride back to Xu Castle was a perfect opportunity for him to gain some experience in the saddle. The two men were, albeit very slowly due to Yohren’s lack of experience on horseback, ascending Veneti Hill in the hopes of finding Marcus Linforde, the scholar who had aided them. Marcus Linforde’s amendment to Kaewyn’s plan had proven decisive, and thus Kaewyn wanted to offer his thanks to the odd scholar and anything else he would accept for his timely assistance.

Kaewyn thought that he would be in high spirits after winning the battle, but the cost to defeat Lord Severus had been great. The small force he had led into battle had experienced casualties, but luckily most had survived the battle. General Alaric’s diversionary force however, which bore the brunt of the enemy counter attack, had suffered tremendously. The General’s force had fought against Lord Severus’ best troops and it was clear that if the battle had continued much longer, then they would have been wiped out to the last man.

The General’s men had held firm despite facing overwhelming odds, owing to the experience of its commander, but roughly half of the troops were killed. Out of the remaining troops, another half were terribly injured leaving only a small portion of troops still fit for battle. Those with medical experience assisted the wounded, but they were few and far between as the vast majority of such highly skilled people had left with Lord Corrhen on campaign. The lack of a properly trained physician was a serious problem.

The battle had been hard, but when Lord Rhys’ Vinum Province troops had defected after Kaewyn had rescued the women, the tide had truly turned in their favour. The sight of Captain Alaric riding through the camp waving Lord Severus’ helmet and crying that the invader was dead quickly spread throughout the Oscuan troops. Their morale plummeted and the men broke and began to flee. Lord Severus’ invading army of near two-thousand Oscuan troops had been reduced to nothing more than more than scattered routing bands, mostly fleeing in the direction of Oscua or Vinum Provinces.

After the battle had been won, Kaewyn and Captain Alaric had found the General Alaric on the ground, badly wounded and surrounded by several slain Oscuan Province soldiers. He was bleeding heavily and barely conscious. The General’s body was broken. He had several deep cuts to his arms and torso, as well as a serious injury to his shoulder. One of his legs was broken, and when Captain Alaric removed his father’s helmet, they saw that his face and head was bloodied and covered in dark purple bruises. The Captain cried out for aid but his father gently hushed him, explaining that there was nothing more to be done. The General had been in terrible pain, but all Kaewyn could see was the incredibly big smile on his old battered face. He told his son that he was proud of him, that he had honoured the Alaric family name. He told Kaewyn that when Lord Corrhen learned of the battle, he too would say something similar to him. The old General then requested his lost sword. Through tears, Captain Alaric found his father’s blade embedded within an enemy soldier. He pulled it from the corpse and handed his father his bloodied sword. As father and son shared their final words together, Kaewyn thanked the General through choked words for his loyal years of service on behalf of his family and then gave them their privacy.

After the battle, the Greystone and Vinum Province troops spent the entirety of the next day rounding up prisoners and gathering supplies and equipment. Additionally, there was also the grim task of burying the dead. Kaewyn had ordered that Lord Severus’ body, along with those of his two sons, be placed respectfully in ornamental coffins and returned to Oscua Province. The last thing he wanted now was an angry third son seeking vengeance upon him for killing his father. General Alaric’s body was not placed in a coffin like the rest, as his body would be buried later at a ceremony honouring his life and service to the Edderfield family.

Lord Rhys had also made it known that there was also the issue of Vinum Province to discuss, as it was currently still occupied by the forces Lord Severus had left behind to maintain order in his new province. Kaewyn, together with Lord Rhys decided that it was best to place the vast majority of their still fit for battle troops under the command of Captain Alaric. With the death of his father, the Captain was now one of the more experienced leaders left available for such a task. This force, along with Rhys and his own troops, were to liberate Vinum Province from the invaders and return control back to the rightful lord. It was expected that this task would take no longer than a week at most, after which the Captain would return to Greystone Province with the remainder of their troops.

The rest of their forces were already headed back to Xu Castle to recuperate from the hard-fought battle. These troops were the injured and those otherwise unfit for further battle. Arlan had proven himself during the battle, he had shown both valour and tremendous skill. The young man had insisted on escorting the injured home with the added protection of his volunteers. Kaewyn planned on joining them shortly for the journey back to Xu Castle, but first, he had to conclude his business with Marcus Linforde.

“Come on Yohren. You are doing well but I think it is time for you to try going faster. You will not learn if you do not push yourself beyond the basics.” Kaewyn said encouragingly. “Let us move at a canter now, perhaps even a gallop.”

“Not… sure… if…. I can….” Yohren said between panicked grunts. “Maybe… in a little while.”

“Nonsense.” Kaewyn laughed as he spurred his horse forward. “We’ll be lucky to ever find Marcus going as slow as we are. Keep up Yohren or be left behind!”

Kaewyn sped up and heard Yohren follow suit amongst intermittent shouting for him to slow down, but he simply laughed louder and kept on going. The path was initially steep, however after a few minutes of travel the ground quickly flattened out and brought them to a large open area which had recently been occupied by the Oakerton militia under Bailiff Mallis. Fire pits were spread all around and small makeshift palisade walls had been erected to make the area much more defendable. Several Edderfield banners stood and flapped vigorously in the still strong wind. The camp was abandoned now as far as he could tell, but he hoped that someone would remain to shed light on where the scholar had gone. He wanted to thank Marcus, but he idea of tracking him through the Province did not appeal to him in the slightest. He just wanted to be home to rest and recover but he had always been taught by his father and mother to pay what is owed, and thus his honour forced him to press onwards.

He rode through the abandoned camp amidst blackened firepits and overturned logs and dismounted by the old hunter’s lodge where he had held his war council and first met the scholar he was currently seeking. As he tied his horse to a hitching post by the side of the lodge, he heard someone muttering inside through a closed window. He hoped that it whoever it was knew where Marcus had gone.

Yohren soon joined him as he caught up, going much slower than Kaewyn had told him to ride. Kaewyn chuckled and waved as he came closer and to his credit, Yohren managed to stop the animal where he wanted it to.

“Well done.” Kaewyn praised. “You told me before that you like horses, and soon enough you will be able to ride them as if you had been since you were a child.”

“Thank you Kaewyn, but I’d hold off with such talk until I’ve had a bit more practice.” Yohren replied.

“I’m going inside.” Kaewyn said as he nodded his head toward the lodge. “If you manage to stay on your horse till I get back, then I will know you are ready for the next phase of your learning.”

“And what might that be?” Yohren asked hesitantly.

“Galloping.”

“…Why did I even ask?” Yohren said.

Kaewyn smiled and then wandered around the side of the lodge to where he knew the entrance was. He instinctively placed his hand on the hilt of his blade, an action that was starting to become second nature to him. It was important for him to be on his guard, especially after a battle had taken place. No telling where deserters or fleeing enemies had found shelter.

As he entered the lodge it became apparent that the building was as dark as it had been the first time he had entered the building. Using his memory, he walked left and found window and forced it open. Light streamed in and illuminated the inside. A robed man on the far side of the lodge was seated at the table Kaewyn had used for his council. To his surprise, he recognised the man immediately by his large bushy eyebrows.

“Marcus Linforde…” He said. “Sitting alone in the dark? I did not expect to find you still here.”

“Young Lord Edderfield…” The scholar replied slowly. “Indeed, I do prefer the darkness. Fewer distractions. I had anticipated that you would seek me out after the battle was concluded. The fact that you are here and relatively unscathed suggests you were successful in your endeavour. I am pleased.”

“The invader has been repelled, and in no small part to you. For that, I have come to offer my gratitude.” Kaewyn explained. “Without your amendment to the plan, I doubt we would have succeeded.”

“No doubts about that.” Marcus lectured. “But truth be told Kaewyn, when I initially suspected your army was moving to attack Lord Severus, I expected I would need to amend… much more of your plan to ensure your success. Imagine my surprise then, when your Seven Advantages and Three Disadvantages strategy was in need of only one such amendment.”

“I take it that is your unique way of complimenting my plan?” Kaewyn said with a smile.

“Something like that.” Marcus chuckled.

“Well the plan was not without fault.” Kaewyn said solemnly. “I lost a great many troops… and General Alaric, my father’s most trusted general.”

“You will lose more in the future.” Marcus explained dryly. “Best not to dwell on it overmuch. To men like the General, a death in the field is preferable to one in bed.”

“I know. But I still feel that I bear responsibility for the fate of my people, warriors or not.”

“It was not your fault Kaewyn. If you want to blame someone, blame Lord Severus. And since he is… already dead?” Marcus half assumed. “Then you can put it out of your mind and move on.”

Kaewyn rolled his eyes. He had forgotten how curt Marcus was. “The reason I sought you out as I have, is because I believe you deserve more than just my thanks. Name your reward. If it is within my power, I will grant you what you wish. It is the least I can do.”

Marcus Linforde stood and slowly approached him. He scratched at his short, neat beard and a smile came to his lips. “I need not any material reward from you Kaewyn, but there is something I desire from you. What I have always wanted since I was but a small boy.”

“Name it.” Kaewyn said, wondering what it could possibly be. “It will be yours.”

“To be remembered.” Marcus said with passion. “I want to be remembered for posterity. I want future generations to know of my legacy. I want them to recite my name above all others when they speak of the history of our Empire.”

Kaewyn was taken aback. “I uhm, perhaps I can… commission a bard to spread word of your contribution to the battle?”

“No Kaewyn! Nothing so small and insignificant.” Marcus snapped in frustration. “I want to be remembered by all in the chronicles of the Revaryn Empire. I want scholars hundreds of years from now to study my legacy in awe. A bard’s work would just have me toasted in some random tavern by some drunkards for a few hours. Do you understand me? Do you understand what I am asking?”

“I am not sure I do, what exactly do you want from me?” Kaewyn asked hesitantly.

“Grant me a position of authority in the court of Greystone.” The bushy eyed scholar pressed. “Perhaps Talbury’s position of Seneschal. The title needs some work, but the role will serve well enough. The man himself seemed particularly useless in your war council.”

“Marcus I… I cannot just replace one of my father’s advisors without cause.” Kaewyn said, in complete surprise at the scholar’s request. “My father appointed all of the officials himself and I cannot remove or replace them.”

“Why on earth not? A useless advisor is worse than no advisor at all. You are bright enough to see that, surely?”

“Secondly…” Kaewyn continued. “I was initially thinking of a more material reward, but if you are set on serving at court, I suppose I could recommend you to my father upon his return for a minor position. With my recommendation I am sure he would take it seriously.”

“I do not do… minor.” The bushy eyed scholar seethed as he shook his head. “I have studied long and learned from only the greatest of masters by tome or by meeting them personally. I have debated those who follow the Scholar’s Way wherever I have found them and proven them for the fools they are. I predicted and warned those very same great masters, that the Great Traitor would take advantage and use the Emperor for his own ends well before the fact. Though no one dared listen to me as I was too young to be a real scholar. And now, I see something much, much worse on the horizon.”

“Listen to me Kaewyn…” Marcus said with a fiery passion as his eyes locked with Kaewyn’s “The coming chaos will separate those who currently rule from those who should rule. The inept or unwilling will be cast aside in favour of those with ability and ambition. Lord Severus is one such example, but there are many more like him, waiting for their opportunity. When it comes… the chaos of their ambition will forever change the Empire. With indecisive and inept advisors like Talbury, I do not think you will not be prepared to hold on to your precious Greystone Province for long.”

Kaewyn was not sure what he thought of Marcus’ words, but he could feel the genuine emotion emanating from the odd scholar. True or not, he had no doubts that Marcus himself believed his every word. His amendment to Kaewyn’s plan had already proven he was no ordinary man and perhaps that he was worth listening to. Whether he wanted to grant Marcus’ wish or not was irrelevant for he was not the lord. His father held that title and only bestowed upon Kaewyn the title of acting lord in his absence. This would have to wait until his father, Lord Corrhen, had returned from the Heartlands.

“Marcus, I appreciate your… offer to serve. But I simply cannot do as you ask. This… coming chaos you speak of. It is something you should discuss with my father. If you are right, then we will need people like you to keep Greystone Province safe.” Kaewyn explained as politely as he could. “Why not stay at Xu Castle for a while as my guest? Together we can speak with him when he returns. Bring your request to him in person. He is a wise man, and values the advice of wise scholars.”

“No Kaewyn, I think not. You still see the world through the eyes of a child. And while you’ve proven yourself to be a man of ability in the last few days, you still hide in your father’s shadow.” Marcus spoke suddenly very sombrely. “A shame really, I am sorry for what you will go through, but it is necessary for you to reach your potential.”

“What do you mean what I will go through?” Kaewyn asked annoyedly. “Potential? You’ve said that before Marcus. By the gods, why do all scholars insist on being as cryptic as they are. Speak plainly.”

“I have said much, too much. All you need to know is that I will be in Oakerton for a few days yet. When… the situation changes, come and find me. We will discuss the future, both yours and that of the ill-fated Empire. Now leave me be, I must pack my belongings for the journey.”

Kaewyn hesitated. Marcus was unlike any other scholar he had ever met in his life. Living in Greystone Province, the home of many of the finest scholars the Empire had produced, had exposed him to many such men, but none could compare to Marcus. He was both intriguing and infuriating.

“We have a shared destination in Oakerton and I travel the same road as you. If you would like some company, you are welcome to join us.” Kaewyn offered, more out of a sense of politeness than a genuine wish to travel with the scholar.

“My thanks, but no. I prefer the company of only my own mind. I enjoy the solitude of travel. There is much to ponder and consider. You will find me in Oakerton.” Marcus replied, before returning his attention to his belongings.

Kaewyn shrugged his shoulders and made for the exit. Marcus had spoken of the coming chaos and potential, but all he could think of was that the chaos had come and gone. The Revaryn Empire had struggled under the thumb of the Great Traitor for some time but the Coalition of Lords had all but defeated him as per his father’s latest letter. No one knew yet of the machinations of Lord Severus, but Kaewyn had seen to that personally. Yet when Marcus spoke of the coming chaos, he did so with a subtle fear that chilled Kaewyn to the bone. If he had indeed predicted the Great Traitor, who used the Emperor himself as a puppet and ravaged the land with corrupt laws, executions and oppressive taxes, then what was this coming chaos that was much worse than even he had been? Kaewyn shivered and hoped that the odd scholar with the bushy eyebrows was either exaggerating or simply wrong.

When Kaewyn left the building and found Yohren still atop his horse, he let out a soft enthusiastic cheer. He then unhitched his horse and climbed up onto the animal and turned toward the path that led down the hill.

“Where to now Kaewyn? Did you find out where he’s gone off to?” Yohren asked.

“He was inside. I am not sure if he ever left. But now it is time to head home.” Kaewyn said as he spurred his horse to a slow trot. “Are you ready for a proper journey on horseback Yohren?”

“Yes!” Yohren replied with excitement. “I was so poor as a child. Never thought I’d get to ride like this. I am grateful Kaewyn. Truly I am.”

“You are welcome Yohren, but it is I who should be thanking you. Your support has aided me greatly the past few days. Before the battle I was… I don’t know if I could have managed without you there to calm me.”

Yohren smiled but said nothing. He appeared to be at a loss for words. He followed Kaewyn’s lead and spurred his own horse to follow alongside as the two began making their way through the abandoned camp.

“You haven’t managed to fall off yet have you?” Kaewyn laughed casually. “Falling off is a required lesson, and a core part of your learning.”

“Wait. You are saying I’m supposed to fall off?” Yohren said with obvious concern.

“At least once yes, now let’s go!” Kaewyn spurred his horse forward and left Yohren behind quickly.

He felt the familiar feeling of the wind in his face and hair as he made his way down Veneti Hill, barely aware of his surroundings. He pushed the animal to go as fast as it could. It was exhilarating. Trees, signs and other things flashed past so quickly he could barely distinguish them between each other. After a minute or two, he eased up and let the horse fall back into a more natural pace as he waited for Yohren to catch up. To his credit, Yohren looked as though he was moving faster too and soon joined him.

“Well done Yohren.” Kaewyn complimented.

“I think I’m getting the hang of it. A little bit more anyway.” Yohren replied.

“You lead this time. I will follow you.” Kaewyn said, pointing down the road.

“Ah…Are you sure?”

“Go on, stop delaying. I will not be far behind.” Kaewyn said in an effort to reassure to uncertain rider.

Yohren nodded and spurred his horse forward a little awkwardly, but eventually the animal understood the novice rider’s wish and obeyed dutifully. The animal moved suddenly at speed and Yohren let out a cry of fear and excitement. Kaewyn laughed as he watched Yohren riding, or more accurately, hang on to his horse as the beast travelled along the path. Kaewyn found his memory drifting back to when he and Lord Rhys had learned to ride as youths. The two would be shouted at by their fathers on what to do, but they were young boys then and obviously knew better. They fell off their small ponies many times and were covered in dirt and bruises, their bones ached with pain, but their faces were alight with joy. That was when his father told him that falling off was part of the learning process. He hadn’t seen his father in many weeks, during which he had been forced to rule as the Lord and administer the entire province. He was truly looking forward to falling back into the background at court and letting his father resume the responsibility of rulership, but more than that, he missed his father greatly and wanted to see him again soon.

Along the road to Xu Castle, Kaewyn and Yohren had caught up with Arlan and the rest of their men. After a warm greeting, the large group of tired and wounded warriors passed by a small village. The villagers came out of their huts and watched as the column of troops marched by, oblivious to the harm they had been spared. Judging by the look of the village, it was poor and struggling. Some of the buildings appeared abandoned or neglected. Many of the fields were overgrown with weeds and not being worked. A lack of farming animals also indicated a lack of food.

Kaewyn noticed Arlan keenly examining the village as well and decided to ask him what was on his mind. Arlan adjusted himself in the saddle and scratched as his neck in response to his query. Kaewyn could tell that the young man was uncomfortable already. He was genuinely curious about what was bothering the volunteer leader.

“Forgive me… for my question is of a philosophical and hypothetical nature.” Arlan said shyly. “If say, a peasant was brought before you for hunting illegally in your wood and it was time to render judgement on the poor fellow. What action would you take? Would it be as simple as reading the law and administering the correct punishment, or would you perhaps, punish differently? Or even punish the peasant at all?”

“An odd question Arlan, but I will humour your curiosities.” Kaewyn responded. He leant back in his saddle and pondered the question for a moment, then smiled and answered.

“I would first ascertain why the peasant was hunting in the wood. If it was for a commercial purpose, then I would administer the correct punishment as stated by Greystone Law. I believe in my example it would be to take the man’s hand.” Kaewyn paused and noticed Yohren too, was listening intently. “However, if it was out of need, then I would investigate further. Is this need for food caused by the peasants own doing? Or caused by something out of their control? I would hesitate to cut off the hand of a man desperately trying to feed his family, but, a starving family could indicate a deeper trouble present within the province that needs immediate attention, like banditry or famine. In essence, establishing the root cause of the problem and addressing it is a better solution to avoid the law being broken. At the very least I believe that it is a better alternative than harsh and strict punishment. Though I know my father and brother think differently.”

“Hmmm, interesting answer my lord. Very interesting.” Arlan said with a smile.

“Does my answer satisfy you Arlan?” Kaewyn asked bemusedly.

“More than that, it tells me a little about who you are, as a man and as a lord. An old scholar told me to ask it to those I meet…”

“An old scholar…” Kaewyn interjected. “Do you refer to the one who educated you as a child? The one you told me about?”

“The very same, I hold his memory dear to me. He told me to ask this very question to any who I thought of serving in the future, as a guard against entering the service of one not worthy.” Arlan explained. “

Kaewyn was instantly excited at the prospect of Arlan potentially pledging his loyalty to the Edderfield family, for he had come to admire and respect him as a brave and cunning warrior, but his thought was interrupted by a chorus of cheers streaming down the line of tired and wounded troops. In the distance, the troops had spotted the familiar hill atop which rested Xu Castle and protected the town of Oakerton. The wounded troops, along with Kaewyn himself, audibly sighed with relief. They had arrived back home safely.

On their approach, Kaewyn saw several children who had in turn spotted them, dash back towards the town excitedly. As they marched closer, they were greeted with cheers from a large crowd of citizens and militiamen that had gathered on both sides of the main road that led into the town. Many waved familiar banners of white, grey and black. Many more however used their voices to express their jubilance.

Lord Kaewyn has returned!

Victory for Greystone!

Edderfield! Edderfield! Edderfield!

Many of the troops broke off and embraced with loved ones and joined in on the cheering, their smiles and laughter brought a feeling to Kaewyn he had never experienced before. He had never in his entire life felt so responsible for so many lives, and on seeing his troops reunite with their families he had to blink back the threat of tears. Many had fallen, which was a cause of great heartache, but many more had lived in no small part to his gambit and to the efforts of those who had fallen. Kaewyn knew in his heart that General Alaric and most of his men had given their lives for this moment, and so he offered a silent prayer to the gods to honour their names.

The people then began to chant Kaewyn’s name in unison. They called him and his men, the heroes of Greystone Province. Secretly, he wondered if his father and brother would receive a similar reception upon their return. He put such thoughts out of his mind and simply waved back to the people with a genuine smile. For the first time Kaewyn felt accepted as the Lord of Greystone Province, whether his title was only temporary or not.

Several hours after they had returned, Kaewyn found himself at the head of a table erected within the Great Hall of Xu Castle. Bailiff Mallis, who returned earlier to the castle from Veneti Hill had organised a massive celebratory feast to commemorate the victory over Lord Severus and his invading army. Along the length of the table, grazing foods such as cheeses and fruits were set up along with several varieties of wine. The entire hall was lit up by glowing torches that illuminated the many paintings of past Edderfield family members. Seated along the massive table that stretched all the way from the Lord’s seat to the open exit leading to the courtyard, were all of the officials of Greystone Province, numbering near thirty people. Both the civil and military officials, along with guests of honour whom Kaewyn had invited personally were attending the feast.

The feast did not begin and end merely within the confine of the Great Hall however, as festivities spilled out into the courtyard and even outside the castle. The soldiers and citizens had started cooking fires and ate and drank together in merriment, many toasting the General and their fallen brothers. Due to a large amount of food and wine having been recovered after the battle with Lord Severus Oscuan Province troops, there was more than enough to go around. Laughter and cheers could be heard from anywhere in Oakerton and Xu Castle.

In the Great Hall of the castle, only those invited or of a sufficient rank were permitted. Seated closest to him were Yohren and Seneschal Talbury. A seat was left empty on his right side as a tribute to General Alaric, who as head of the military officials, customarily stood on the lord’s right-side during councils. Several of the senior civil and military officials were seated close to Kaewyn as well, and further down Madame Talissa and Bailiff Mallis sat suspiciously close to each other and appeared to be in deep conversation. Arlan sat further down from them and toasted the efforts of his volunteers with some of the lesser known military men. It was loud and Kaewyn could barely hear over the raucous laughter and heavy conversation, but he was content. Everything since the battle had seemed to nearly float by, as if less important or less real. He was simply there to watch as time went on by.

His mind quickly began to drift off when all of a sudden Seneschal Talbury stood from his chair and shouted a toast as he drunkenly downed his fourth goblet of wine, spilling much of it onto himself in the process. He toasted his fallen friend in General Alaric with a stirring speech showing his deep respect for his counterpart. The two had often been on opposing sides of countless arguments, but when it came to serving Greystone Province loyally, there were none his father trusted more.

“For General Alaric and those we lost!” Talbury shouted loudly as he was met with respectful cheers.

Kaewyn lifted his goblet and took a hearty drink of wine and nearly finished it in one attempt. The intense flavour warmed him as he felt the liquid travel down his throat and all the way down to his stomach. He shrugged his shoulders and decided to finish off the last bit of wine he had left, waving over a servant to refill his goblet as he did so.

As his goblet was being refilled, he saw someone in the corner of his eye. Camilla had just emerged from the hallway that led to the guest rooms. She was incredibly beautiful. Her pleasant features were illuminated by a nearby torch which showed off the elegant shape of her nose and cheeks. The first thing he always noticed about her was her dark blue eyes. Their colour was matched only by her stunning outfit. Camilla wore a striking blue velvet dress over a long white gown. Just above the elbows a gold trim surrounded each of her arms like a band. The blue velvet dress hung from her shoulders elegantly and draped down her sides, covering both her hips and legs. Her dress was held together in front by interlocking golden threads that tied together across her chest. Her long brown hair flowed neatly to one side, exposing her neck and part of her shoulders. Kaewyn was utterly entranced and found it hard to look away.

Camilla saw him and made her way over to him slowly, stepping around others who had decided to roam the Hall in search of good conversation rather than remain seated. Kaewyn quickly sat up in his seat and very quickly tried to make himself appear at least somewhat presentable. He swiped away some bread crumbs from his tunic and then quickly checked himself over. Camilla was coming closer. He realised that had he never seen her in this way before, for he had only ever thought of her as a childhood friend, but it was obvious to even him that he was feeling flushed at the sight of her. He could not help but feel that he was developing feelings for her that had been awoken when he had found her in Lord Severus tent, or maybe he had always felt that way about her. When he saw most of the feast goers’ heads turn in awe at Camilla as she moved, he knew that he was not the only one feeling such things.

“Camilla…” Kaewyn managed to say as she stopped beside his chair.

“Kaewyn, it is good to see you. You disappeared when we arrived.” Camilla said softly with a faint smile.

“I am sorry. I was busy with the feast. I should have made sure that you were settled in first.” He explained nervously, feeling suddenly flustered and at a loss for words. “Let me make space for you, this seat is for the General… I will clear another seat.”

Camilla shook her head. “There is no need to have someone moved for my sake. I… I would rather be away from such loud noises. Reminds me too much of Lord Severus’ camp.”

“Oh, I was hoping you were coming to join us for the feast.” Kaewyn explained.

“My apologies.” Camilla said politely bowing her head. “I do not feel much like celebrating. The past week has been… difficult. I would prefer to rest, unless you would prefer me to remain. I do not want to offend you as host.”

Kaewyn stood from his chair and returned her polite bow. “Oh no, I understand Camilla. If you wish to rest then please, retire to the guest bedrooms. You could go for a walk in the courtyard if you wanted some fresh air. I will have someone bring you some of the food too. A little bit of everything!”

“Thank you Kaewyn, but I do not feel much like eating. The walk however, sounds wonderful.” Camilla said with a smile. “Perhaps you and I can speak later?”

“Definitely!” Kaewyn said awkwardly. A strong feeling of wanting to accompany her on her walk overcame him, but this feast was his and he could not idly abandon it. “Tonight, or tomorrow?”

“Tonight.” She said.

Kaewyn could see that seemed particularly important to her that the two of them speak later tonight. Her eyes conveyed more emotion and feeling than her words had. He was curious, but it would be rude for him to press her for a reason so publicly, so instead he merely agreed and bowed. Camilla thanked him and then left for the guest bedchambers, disappearing down the hallway. He found himself staring after her and only when Yohren nudged his side with his elbow did his senses return.

“Nervous?” Yohren teased

“What? Hardly.” Kaewyn said defensively as he slumped back into his chair.

“I know what nervous looks like better than anyone.” Yohren added. “I thought you knew her from when you were both children?”

“Yes… I have known Camilla a long time. We used to play together as children. Her, Rhys, my brother Rahim and I would get into all kinds of trouble. My… sister too, when she was still… around. Once we even burned down a pantry… but that is a tale I will have to tell you some other time.” Kaewyn said with a fond smile. “She was always a friendly girl, honestly I could never get her to be quiet. Camilla always made certain even as a child to ensure everyone felt welcome.”

“When she entered the Great Hall,” Yohren said. “it seemed like she only had eyes for you.”

“Nonsense.” Kaewyn retorted shyly. “It’s more likely that she just does not know anyone else here very well. If my father or brother Rahim were here…”

Yohren lost track of their conversation as his nose caught the scent of something captivating. Shortly after, the servants brought out roasted pheasant and chicken and covered the entire length of the table in the deliciously cooked birds. The smell of their seasoning alone made Kaewyn’s mouth begin to water. He had not realised how hungry he had become. The loudness of the room immediately quietened several levels as the feast goers began to devour their first main course. Kaewyn himself was served an entire chicken, roasted golden and seasoned to perfection. He quickly cut away the legs and wings and made short work of them as he chewed vigorously and enjoyed the flavour.

He soon paused when he noticed that Yohren had not begun to feast nearly as enthusiastically as he expected. He found Yohren’s apparent lack of appetite odd as he had been talking only moments ago about how ravenously hungry he was. Kaewyn watched him discreetly for a moment and noticed that the olive-skinned young man was watching how the other guests were using their utensils and imitating them. He was obviously uncomfortable and feeling awkward being seated amongst the upper classes.

It suddenly struck Kaewyn that Yohren was essentially a peasant. He had never attended court, learned to bow properly, ridden horses, or in fact, eaten at a feast. Yohren had been remarkable in his adaptivity since joining Kaewyn and he found himself respecting his new friend even more than he had before. Some of the military and civil officials seated near to Yohren were watching him as well, the look on their faces were plain to see. They were judging him for his lack of knowledge and courtly etiquette. Kaewyn was angry at first and was going to give them a piece of his mind, but then a thought struck him.

“Yohren.” Kaewyn said as he picked up a chicken leg in his hands and smiled cheekily. “Hands are always best.”

Yohren smiled as Kaewyn bit into the leg and ripped the flesh from it like a ferocious animal. Yohren laughed and the officials lowered their heads and forced themselves to turn away. Kaewyn laughed too and finished off the rest of his wine in one go for the second time. His head began to spin but he was not feeling the effects too badly just yet.

Once they had finished off the pheasant and chicken, leaving only bones and scraps for the kennels, conversations in the Great Hall began to pick up once again. When the servants reappeared to take away the scraps, a pretty serving girl leant across Yohren as she collected the remains of the food. Kaewyn saw Yohren blush and chuckled. He found himself pondering whether that was how he had looked when Camilla had spoken with him? He hoped not.

Soon after the servants had cleared the tables and brought out replacement grazing foods, a musician armed with a lute graced the Great Hall with samples of his latest work. Kaewyn gestured to a servant to refill his goblet and took another drink. He was very much starting to feel the effects of the alcohol now. The tune the musician was producing was melodic and pleasant to the ear. Once he had learned the basic flow of the music, Kaewyn began to hum along with it. He relaxed in his chair and took in the music as the musician wandered about the massive room. Yohren however, appeared less interested in the music and leaned over to speak.

“We haven’t had much chance before now,” He said with a hushed voice. “but would you like to hear one of my father’s stories about his adventures with Lord Corrhen?”

Kaewyn instantly perked up at the prospect of a story and nodded excitedly. Yohren smiled and began to set the scene, hesitating only a moment when he realised that Talbury had decided to listen in as well.

“Our fathers, I’ll suppose just calling them by their given names will do for now, well they had just gotten paid for a job.” Yohren began.

Kaewyn nursed his goblet of wine and listened on in interest. He was eager to hear stories of his father’s youth.

“The two of them had found work with a local merchant and had agreed to escort a caravan though some rather rough roads to one of the large cities in the Heartlands. It had been a long week with nothing but stale bread and hard marching day after day, but once they got their hands on the pay, they could finally rest and recover. My father… he was named Ardin… He suggested that they spend their hard-earned coin on a night of festivities, but Corrhen would have none of it. Your father said that all he wanted was a meal of quality and a bed that did not have a view of the stars.”

“That certainly sounds like Lord Corrhen.” Seneschal Talbury said.

“That is because it is my father.” Kaewyn informed him as he realised Yohren had spoken the truth. “He always said when I was a youth, to enjoy a meal of quality is a privilege. Yohren’s father… Ardin, he must have known my father. This is proof. They really did travel together.”

Kaewyn had always believed that Yohren was telling the truth about their father’s shared history, right from the beginning. Though he could not deny that a small part of him, deep inside, doubted Yohren’s claims. His father had warned him of such opportunists, people that would use him and manipulate him for their own gain. Kaewyn had been taught that it was foolish to believe a person’s words without some evidence to support them, especially those with a background like Yohren. He was a peasant with no wealth to his name and by fabricating a connection he could gain much. These doubts were dispelled instantly when Kaewyn heard Yohren recite his father’s own words. To enjoy a meal of quality is a privilege.

“What happened after that?” Talbury asked eagerly.

“Well,” Yohren continued. “They argued for a time which was not unusual for them, but eventually they agreed to search for an establishment where they could both get what they wanted. They came across a large tavern which had some rooms for rent. My father said that Corrhen had ordered the most expensive meal they had to offer, but he could never remember what it was, only that to him, it smelled horrible. While Corrhen found a quiet corner to enjoy his meal, my father had other ideas. He roamed the tavern and spotted a woman he described as a match for the goddess of beauty herself. He was always quick to point out that this was well before he had met my mother. He approached her and said some words, the woman was warming to him as my father put it, but then an ugly scarred man pulled him away from her and shouted at him. My father later learned that the woman was the concubine of a powerful gang leader that controlled that area of the city. Before he knew what was happening, four men were upon him with their fists flying. My father shouted out for Corrhen’s aid and the two brawled with the thugs. They won quickly as the men were just untrained and unarmed thugs, but when your father stepped over the unconscious men to return to his half-eaten meal, more thugs armed with blades charged into the tavern and threatened to kill them. In an instant, my father grabbed Corrhen and rushed outside. My father always made a point to explain that he had rarely seen Corrhen sadder than the day he had to leave that meal in the tavern. Anyway, they fled into the streets at full speed and nearly knocked over a patrol of city guardsmen. When questioned, my father came up with a lie that the two men were racing, and that the first of them to reach the gatehouse first would win a massive amount of coin. The guardsmen must have thought they were drunk my father said, because these guardsmen laughed at them and sent them on their way. Corrhen and my father rushed around a corner only to look back and see the armed thugs come rushing out of the tavern and smash straight into the city guardsmen. The guardsmen tried to arrest the thugs, and as more guards and more thugs came to support their comrades the streets became complete chaos. The chaos in the streets was so destructive, word even reached the Lord of the province as well as the gang leader whose woman my father had flirted with. As for our fathers… well, after arguing once again, the two agreed that their best course of action was to leave the city as quickly as possible to avoid further trouble.”

“What a story.” Talbury said as he finished yet another goblet of wine.

“Fascinating. That is definitely my father Yohren, I’ve never known him to leave a meal unfinished.” Kaewyn said as he continued to drink, though he noticed he could not taste any of the flavour anymore. “I just cannot see him escorting caravans and roaming from town to town. He sounds like a common mercenary to me.”

“He was not always as he is now my young Lord.” Talbury added with a slight slur of his words. “When I first met your father, he was far more carefree. When he took on the Lordship of Greystone Province, he became… as General Alaric would have put it… like one with a stick up his arse.”

“Lord Corrhen wasn’t always the lord?” Yohren asked curiously. “I always wanted to know how he became a lord while my father ended up living in a small village.”

“My father was the second son of my grandfather, the Lord of Greystone Province at the time.” Kaewyn explained, remembering his childhood lessons on Edderfield genealogy. “Apparently my father and grandfather could not suffer to be in each other’s presence for more than a moment and frequently clashed. Sometimes even physically. The way my father tells the story, is that he left voluntarily to wander the Empire.”

“Then the illness came.” Seneschal Talbury chimed in, managing to articulate his words rather well considering the sheer quantity of wine the man had consumed. “I remember those times well. Greystone Province lost not only its aging Lord, but the heir apparent too. Lord Corrhen was recalled and took the title and has ruled ever since. I was appointed as Seneschal soon after.”

“And in all this time he has never spoken of his time as a wanderer.” Kaewyn said excitedly. “I’m happy to be finally hearing some of it!”

Yohren looked nervous. “I hope he doesn’t take offense with me telling you such things…”

“He’ll have to make do.” Kaewyn said happily, noticing that he was most certainly drunk now. “I’ll not be satisfied until I’ve heard all such stories.”

Yohren only chuckled in response rather worriedly, his expression betraying his uneasiness at potentially getting on the bad side of the very lord he was supposed to meet before ever having actually met him.

The musician with the lute had just finished playing his piece when the servants then brought out the next course, primarily pork and venison but some other meats that Kaewyn did not recognise as well. Usually the sight of venison, one of his favourite meats, was enough to make him feel hunger even when he had already eaten his fill, but he was already feeling rather uncharacteristically full. The night had grown long and he was tired. He was feeling the toll of the past few days both mentally and physically and wanted nothing more than to retire to his bedchambers to sleep. His head had begun to pound in the last few minutes and so he decided it was time for him to sleep. He lifted his freshly refilled goblet and downed it in one go, feeling slightly sick after doing so.

He found himself looking for an opening to sneak away from the feast. He thought he spotted his opportunity when a serving girl accidently dropped a dish to the floor, the very same one who had gotten Yohren all flustered earlier in the night. It smashed on the floor with a loud clattering and had gotten everyone’s attention. He quickly whispered to Yohren that he was retiring for the night, and then slowly stood from his chair and struggled to balance himself. Seneschal Talbury saw his movements and he too stood and then shouted.

“A toast for Kaewyn!” He cried out. “Though he is only the acting Lord, he has proven himself worthy of the Edderfield name!”

Everyone attending the feast raised their goblet’s in Kaewyn’s name and drank heartily. After they had downed their goblets, they cried out his name in praise. Then, Talbury demanded he make speech…

Speech

Speech

Speeeeech!

Kaewyn sighed. This was the last thing he wanted to be doing. He forced a smile and then stumbled awkwardly as he tried to find the right words.

“I… don’t even know.” He slurred. “I suppose I should start by… by honouring my father.”

Kaewyn hiccupped and wiped away some of the sweat that had begun to gather above his brow. “Shit.” He mumbled. “I don’t know what to say.”

The feast goers laughed hysterically, including Arlan and Bailiff Mallis who were also both drunk. Kaewyn’s head pounded and could not rightly tell if they were laughing with him or at his expense. He was at a complete loss for words, but then memories of the battle flooded into his drunken mind and sobered him up. The flashing images of the dead and injured bodies lying in the mud and rain appeared in his head. In particular, General Alaric’s broken and bloodied body.

“This feast is to honour those who died for this land.” He said sombrely. “A toast! To those that did not get to come home. To General Alaric and his brave men! That is all that needs to be said.”

The laughter in the Great Hall slowed and eventually silence took the room. Everyone took up their goblets and raised them in unison. Kaewyn too grasped his goblet, and although his was empty, he pretended to drink alongside everyone else in the Great Hall in memory of the fallen. He’d had enough wine for one night.

“Now return yourselves to feasting.” He said light heartedly in an effort to restore the mood. “As the dead are reputed to love a good feast.”

Several cheers returned the room to a volume more befitting of a feast and Kaewyn quickly used the opportunity to slip away unnoticed. He wandered past several servants and guests busy with the feast and turned down the hallway that led to the guest rooms. The noise from the feast was less audible from here for which he was thankful. His head still ached greatly and it was only getting worse. He passed several rooms and stopped at the one in which he knew Camilla had claimed as her own. He knocked and waited patiently.

“Kaewyn?” Camilla’s voice called to him, but not from within the room as he expected.

He turned and saw her coming from down the brightly lit hallway toward him. Her blue velvet dress trailing behind her as she moved. She had a faint smile upon her face.

“I went for a walk as you suggested.” She said. “While Xu Castle is small, the beauty here is truly something special. All those tapestries and pieces of art are finely made. We have nothing that compares in Varde Castle. Just barrels of wine everywhere.”

“I’m glad you think so Camilla. My father has long welcomed artists all of kinds into our halls. The best works he purchases right away and displays them with pride.” Kaewyn said as he bowed to her, he then smiled and continued. “I’ve retired from the feast and was going to my chambers to get some much needed rest, but I remembered you wanted to speak with me.”

Camilla smiled. “Thank you Kaewyn, I do want to speak with you. About my stay here in Xu Castle. May we speak… alone? Perhaps in my chambers.”

Kaewyn was momentarily taken aback, but he managed to nod without showing it. His eyes were drawn to her body more than once. Her eyes mostly, but also her long flowing brown hair that rested elegantly upon her shoulders. He had liked her hair even when they were younger, though no force in the world ever would have gotten him to admit to it then. The sight of her womanly hips and shapely chest awakened a desire within him. He had not seen her for years and had not spent any significant amount of time with her since they were but children. Since then Camilla had grown into a very attractive woman. Kaewyn had only ever seen her as an intelligent friend, but now he was seeing her beauty too. He felt the urge to be close to her, it was then that he knew that copious amount of wine he had consumed during the feast was getting the better of him. The wine was clouding his judgement, such thoughts were entirely inappropriate. He decided to push such thoughts from his mind and see what she wanted to talk to him about.

Camilla walked past him and opened the door to her chambers and walked in, inviting Kaewyn to follow with a gesture of her hand. The room was completely dark inside, save for a single candle burning in the half-opened window which illuminated most of the room. Camilla shut the door behind him and then faced him. Her eyes looking up at him only slightly as they were nearly the same height.

“Thank you for coming to see me Kaewyn.” She said nervously.

“You are most welcome Camilla. What did you want to talk to me about?” He said, trying to appear more confident and sober than he was feeling.

“As you know my brother thought it best if I stay in Xu Castle with you for a little while. Until he reclaims Vinum Province from Lord Severus’ men.” She said softly.

“Yes, he and I discussed it at length after the battle.” Kaewyn began, trying to concentrate through the wine “it does seem wise considering the danger. Is something wrong? He told me you were happy to stay here.”

“Yes! I am happy to stay here and I do agree.” Camilla said rapidly, looking suddenly uneasy. “But how would you feel about it if I were to stay here in Xu Castle… longer.”

“What do you mean? I thought you would be anxious to return to your home. To be back in your own chambers and not merely a guest room.” Kaewyn said looking around the darkened room.

“I don’t want to go back!” Camilla nearly shouted as she cupped her face in her hands and began to sob. “I don’t.”

“Hey, it’s okay Camilla.” Kaewyn said as he moved toward her and hugged her as gently as he could. “It’s okay. Of course, you can stay if you want to.”

“If Rhys sends word that he wants me to return, you have to tell him no, Kaewyn, you have to.” She pleaded as she pressed herself up against him, the same way she had when he had found her in Lord Severus tent.

Kaewyn was completely surprised. He had not expected such an outward display of emotion or feeling from her so suddenly. Something was definitely wrong. His concern for her was growing.

“I…I cannot refuse your brother Camilla. If he wants you back... he is your family. While I am just…” Kaewyn didn’t know what he was to her, only that he cared for her.

“I’m not ready to go back there, not yet.” She said. “Let me stay.”

“I can only help you If I know what’s going on.” He said softly, letting go of her so she could speak to him face to face. “I will do everything I can to help you. I vow it. Just tell me what has you so ruffled.”

“Very well Kaewyn. I will tell you… I’ve told no one else, but I trust you.” She said in a tone that suggested the matter was very serious. “When Varde Castle fell, Rhys told me hide in my chambers and wait for him. I did so with my maid servants Rhea and Lysia. We were terrified, but we told ourselves that everything would be okay. We huddled there for a while, then there came a knock on the door, strong and heavy. I hoped it was my brother, but when the door burst open.... Lord Severus’ son Cassius… he had the look of a madman.”

“Cassius… the one you…”

“Yes, the bastard I killed in the command tent!” Camilla said with an anger he had never seen before. Kaewyn could see the hate even through the tears that started to stream down her face. “I told him who I was and he simply laughed. He came over to me and touched my face… I was frozen with fear. Rhea shouted at him to stay away from me, and he turned and…. He took her by the throat and squeezed the life out of her. I screamed… pounded on his back to get him to stop. Cassius laughed again, he was enjoying it. He killed her, her lifeless body dropped to the floor, then he threatened to kill Lysia too if I resisted him. I said I wouldn’t… I promised him… then he drew his sword and killed her anyway.”

“By the gods Camilla…. I cannot even imagine… I am so sorry.” Kaewyn said in shock. “Now I understand your actions in the tent that night.”

“He came for me then… while I sobbed in the corner, he came for me. He pulled me to my feet and then threw me down on my bed. His brother came in and stopped him at the last moment.” Camilla explained. “The brother said I was a valuable hostage in… securing Rhys’ loyalty to their father. If I was damaged… my value would be less.”

“Camilla… if I had known…what an animal. A beast!” Kaewyn said angrily. He was suddenly overcome with an urge to break something, something valuable even.

“What would you have done Kaewyn?” She snapped. “Don’t be a fool. It makes no difference now.”

“I do not know what I would have done… but I doubt I would have treated his body so respectfully. It certainly wouldn’t be headed back to Oscua Province in an ornate coffin as we speak. More likely to have been dumped in the Rau River. Let the fish have at his corpse.”

“Kaewyn… I feel safer here in Xu Castle… with you.” Camilla said softly.

“Not with your own flesh and blood?” He questioned. “Would you not feel safer with Rhys?”

“No, he failed to protect us. He promised we would be safe…” She explained. “I cannot go back to Varde Castle now… maybe not ever.”

“I understand how you feel Camilla, but you cannot blame Rhys completely. I doubt I would have fared any better in his situation.”

“Maybe.” She said. “But when I was in that tent, I thought my life was over. When you and that dark-skinned friend of yours entered the tent…swords in hand, you both looked so brave.”

“Truthfully, I was terrified.” He admitted. “I had no idea what I was going to face inside that tent. I was shaking with fear.”

“But you pressed on regardless.” Camilla explained. “That is why… I feel safe here, with you. Please Kaewyn. Let me stay, even if my brother says I am to go back, let me stay.”

Kaewyn was conflicted. He had already agreed on sheltering Camilla until Vinum Province had been reclaimed, and he did not want to cross his old friend, but if Camilla truly felt this strongly then he wanted to stand by her side. It might upset Rhys, but he could not bring himself to turn down Camilla, not when she needed him most. He just needed to take care, for if it appeared that he was holding her against the will of her family, there was no telling how much trouble that could cause in the future.

“You can stay Camilla. I will not force you to return to Varde Castle against your will.” He promised.

“Thank you Kaewyn… I appreciate it.” She said with a sad smile as she wiped her eyes with the sleeve of her dress. “Truly… thank you.”

“Though If Rhys requests your return, it must be you who tells him you do not wish to do so. I will support your decision of course, but I cannot openly go against your brother.” He warned. “It would not be proper. When my father returns… he may see things differently as well, perhaps force you to return. Do you understand?”

“I do, I understand how things are.” She said gratefully.

“Good… I should go to my chambers. The hour is late… will you be alright?”

“I’m fine. To have this resolved is a relief.”

Kaewyn turned to leave and paused. “If you want to talk about… anything. Come find me, okay?”

She nodded.

“I will see you tomorrow Camilla. I would wish you a good night’s sleep, but I doubt either of us will be sleeping well.”

Kaewyn left Camilla in her chambers and started toward his own. He took a longer route that avoided the Great Hall for he was in no mood to be questioned on why he had left the feast early. During the walk he thought more about Camilla. He was happy she wanted to stay, secretly he had hoped that she would stay longer, but he was worried for her too. She had experienced much in the past week. Perhaps her staying in Xu Castle was good for her. When he finally opened his bedchamber door and found himself in the comfort of his own space, the fatigue of the immense day caught up with him. His feet, legs and back ached with pains. His head pounded from the wine. Utter exhaustion like he had never felt before completely overcame him. He fell into bed and slept almost immediately. He was so incredibly tired that he did not even bother to change his clothes.