The Key of Ban by James Harshfield
The sun was setting as they looked for a place to spend the night. On both sides of the road groups of beggars could be seen huddled around fires. The warriors became aware they were being closely watched. As Coaldon glanced over his shoulder, he noticed a group of beggars following them.
He said to the team, “We are being followed. I suggest we turn and greet our new friends. This will help dispel any misconceptions.”
The travelers stopped and turned to face the group. They were a motley group of poverty stricken men. Their thin, haggard bodies and hollow eyes reflected their need for food. The warriors knew hungry men could be dangerous. Pacer stepped forward in a slow, casual manner. He raised his hand as a sign of welcome.
He said, “Greetings, we travel to Neverly looking for work and food. We desire to avoid any conflict.”
Loud, sarcastic laughter erupted from the unsavory group. In an arrogant and defiant manner, a short, thin man walked toward the five travelers.
He said, “You offer us great humor. All we ask for is your money. Then, we will leave you alone. Now save yourselves grief by handing over your coins.”
Pacer responded, “Again, we seek no trouble with you. As it has been said, ‘Live and let live’. Let it be known, we will ably defend ourselves.”
The vagrants raised their arms in mockery and gave cynical shouts of fear. The group advanced on the five warriors with clubs and rocks in hand.
Coaldon stepped forward, declaring. “We come in friendship. Do not waste your blood by attacking us. Be wise. Leave us alone.”
Before anybody could act, a yell came from the crowd watching the impending disaster. With long strides, Robbet stepped from the bystander. He ordered the advancing group to stop. The thief walked forward with the confidence of a commander. His eyes flashed with intelligence and his body moved with authority. The advancing vagrants showed respect to his invisible influence. The group stopped and held a short meeting with Robbet. Several beggars looked up at the five travelers with suspicious glances as the conversation continued. Finally, the cloud of hostility dissolved from the vagrants. The character of the mob shifted from aggressiveness to reconciliation.
With downcast eyes the man leading the mob approached the rescuers saying, “We extend salutations to you. Your friends from the forest have offered you safe passage. Go in peace.”
The mob quickly dispersed into the fading light of day. No further attention was given to the newcomers.
The five travelers continued down the road with no desire to talk with anybody. They did not want to draw any attention to their journey. As darkness blanketed the area, they spotted an old barn in a weed choked field. Alert to any possible encounter with the local homeless, the travelers carefully approached the barn. The inside was littered with old fire pits and garbage. After consuming a warm dinner, they had a peaceful night’s sleep.
At the first light of day, the group continued their trek toward the capital city. As they topped a knoll, the walls of Neverly could be seen in the distance. The two towers of the city dominated the skyline. The gray, dark walls of the city framed the west gate in a vivid outline. The Slownic River, with its tree covered banks, snaked across the land forming a barrier between them and the city. The five travelers could see the West Road join the North-South Road in front of the famous Talking Bridge.
The Talking Bridge, spanning the Slownic River, was the magnificent creation of the dwarves and elves. Marble and granite blocks, quarried in the Sadden Mountains by the dwarves, were used to build the foundation. It was the architectural miracle crafted by the elves at the height of their genius. The beautiful bridge stretched across the river in a graceful series of arches with no obvious means of support. The magic of the elves was infused into each block of the bridge, allowing it to stand against the force of gravity. The interlocking bonds of magic within the bridge created a flow of energy that sounded like whispering voices. This sound would often cause people to run across the bridge in fear of being cursed by the murmuring resonance. The warriors stopped to marvel at the splendor of the bridge. Even though corruption abounded, the elegance of the Talking Bridge stood as a testament to potential goodness in the world.
With reluctance the rescue group lowered their eyes from the majesty of the bridge and focused on the road descending to the river. As they approached the Talking Bridge, small bands of beggars were making their daily migration into the city in search of food. The homeless mixed together as they crossed the bridge without being aware of its beauty or miraculous creation. The crowd of people walked with fatigued steps up the narrow road leading to the city’s west gate. The five travelers, in their ragged clothes, blended into the milling crowd of people as they approached the city. On both sides of the large metal gate, vagrants huddled in small clusters watching the arrival of the tragic parade of poverty. The soldiers pushed the beggars into large holding areas to have better control of them in case trouble erupted. This mass of humanity looked like a tide of misery washing up against the wall of the city. At the appointed time, several wagons arrived from the city with the daily ration of food for the homeless. Wastelow determined it was better to feed the crowds, rather than face a rebellion.
The warriors stood in disbelief as the vagrants made an uncontrolled rush at the wagons to gain their share of the food. Coaldon saw how poverty had driven normal people to act like wild animals. He noticed how the weak and ill beggars were pushed aside with little or no concern for their health or safety. The soldiers advanced on the mob with lowered spears to regain control. As the hungry mob formed into orderly lines, the distribution of food began. The five travelers found a place at the end of the line. When their turn arrived to be served, each received a small ration of bread, cheese and watery soup. Pacer led the group to a secluded location next to the city wall. The mob became quiet after the food was handed out. Several beggars roamed around the crowd stealing food from the weak. If individuals protested, the thieves would cuff them. Bullies had a free-hand to do as they pleased. The ability to remain human was a challenge in the face of lawlessness.
The new arrivals were so engrossed by the churning mass of people they did not notice an old blind lady approaching them. The decrepit woman had a small, skinny body with wrinkled, brown skin. Her weathered face emitted the solid strength of the earth. She wore a ragged dress stained with many weeks of collected grime. Her white empty eyes were directed towards some unseen reality. She approached the team with the guidance of her walking stick. The hair on Sid’s back stood up as he gave a deep growl of warning.
She pointed the stick directly at Coaldon saying, “What has taken you so long to get here? I expected you several days ago!”
Coaldon looked in disbelief at the old woman. He finally said, “I do not know what you are talking about.”
The old woman gave a loud cackling laugh as she lifted her arms into the air. “My, you have the same temperament as your father. I can feel his presence stirring in your body and mind. Yes, this should be a most enjoyable adventure. Pacer, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Neverly. I extend my greetings to Brother Patrick and Earthkin. Your reputations stand as monuments to your fine character. Oh, and if it isn’t the unfortunate Topple. You must be the most worthless person in the world. I should have drowned your sorry soul when I had the chance.”
Topple’s eyes sparkled at the unexpected challenge. He slowly stood up, spread his feet apart and placed his open hands on his hips. He said, “It has been a long time, Hilda. The last time we met, your uncensored words created a rebellion in the Empire.”
Hilda pointed her walking stick at Topple saying, “Why must the world be tortured by such a marginal example of humanity?”
The flicker of a smile grew on Topple’s face. He finally said, “You have tormented many people with the emptiness of your mind.”
Hilda arched her back as she prepared her next rebuttal. With clearly articulated words she said, “The simplistic nature of your foolish personality is found in the acts of lit
tle children.”
Topple’s face finally blossomed into a broad smile. He countered, “It would seem your mouth continues to control your common sense.”
Topple and Hilda then rushed forward into each others arms. At this signal, all the members of the group except Coaldon started laughing and clapping with pleasure.
Coaldon questioned, “What is going on with these two?”
Pacer laughed as he said, “Hilda and Topple are brother and sister. They have not seen each other for many years. This bantering is their special way of saying hello. I was hoping we would find her here. She has magical powers we can use.” Several beggars sitting in the area of the encounter started to stare. Hilda had the reputation of being a strange and dangerous person with few friends. People believed she could cast a spell of misfortune, merely with the look of her blind eyes. Nobody, out of fear of being turned into a toad, rat or maybe a snake, ever went near her hut south of the city.
Pacer finally said, “We need to be more discrete. Spies could report us to Crossmore. We could visit with Hilda, but I believe it is time to start our investigation of the city. Let’s meet here at sundown. Hilda, we will visit you this evening.”
Before departing, Hilda gave directions to her home.
As she walked away, each member of the group began to mingle with the crowd of vagrants. Coaldon and Sid walked north along the city wall until they reached the edge of the crowd. Coaldon sat down next to a small group of individuals talking in quiet voices. He pulled his hood over his head to offer an image of disinterest. He removed his knife from its scabbard and held it loosely in his hand under his coat. Being prepared for an unanticipated threat was becoming second nature to him. As Coaldon listened, the conversation of a small group shifted from topic to topic without any direction or purpose. It seemed the meaningless discussion helped fill the void between sunrise and sunset. The elf soon lost interest in the discussion.
Coaldon’s attention was reawakened when the subject changed to Wastelow and Crossmore.
“I heard that Wastelow died today. Did anybody else hear this rumor?”
“Yes, it is true. Wastelow is dead. They say he will be buried tomorrow in the royal crypt.
“I believe that Prince Regee will be crowned by authority of the five royal advisors. The Empire is in deep trouble when Regee takes the throne. He is so pathetic.”
“Ruffor, you should not speak out against the new Emperor, or you will face retaliation.”
Coaldon saw people looking around to see if anybody heard the seditious comment.
Finally someone with a soft voice commented, “Did you hear that Crossmore has not been seen for nine days? I heard he received wounds when he was attacked while working in his tower.”
“How could he be attacked in the tower?”
“I don’t know, but I would like to thank the person for performing such an important service for the Empire. The power of the wizard is increasing every day. I believe Crossmore will ultimately eliminate Regee. If Crossmore takes power we will be given food, but in the process we will sell our souls in his evil plan. I believe I have said too much, yet I feel so helpless.”
Moaning in agreement, everyone again looked around for spies. At this point, somebody noticed Coaldon sitting next to the group.
A loud voice shouted, “Hey you, what are doing there?” The young half elf ignored the question.
Again he heard a voice say, “I am talking to you. Who are you?”
Coaldon heard someone walking towards him in slow, deliberate steps. Finally, he felt the pain of a solid kick to his side. Coaldon looked out from under his hood with sleepy eyes.
He said, “Why did you do that? I was just resting.”
The man pulled his knife and pointed it at Coaldon. He ordered, “Stand up and let us get a look at you.”
Coaldon slowly stood up, keeping his knife concealed. He responded, “I just arrived yesterday from the Village of Grandy. I came here looking for work. I do not know anything about this city.”
The man advanced on Coaldon with his knife raised.
He exclaimed, “You must be a spy. Otherwise, why would you be sitting next to us?”
Suddenly he thrust his knife at Coaldon’s chest.
As Coaldon stepped to the right, the knife tore a hole in his clothing. Coaldon declared, “I am not a spy.”
Sid walked to a position putting him between the two fighters and the crowd. As several men stepped forward to help their friend, Sid bared his teeth and growled. Sid’s threat of attack forced the crowd to stay back.
The man laughed and made a slashing motion with his knife. Coaldon darted to his left and grabbed the man’s arm as it passed in front of him. With a swift twist of his body, he flipped his assailant on the ground.
The half elf repeated, “I am not a spy. I come in peace. I do not want to hurt you!” The man jumped to his feet and made a running dive at Coaldon. Coaldon stepped to the side and intentionally made a small cut on the man’s forehead. The man fell to the ground in an uncoordinated tumble. He gripped his head to stop the bleeding. Coaldon stood over him with a stern face and a dominate posture.
Coaldon said, “Next time you attack me, you will die.”
With Sid at his side, he turned his back to the bleeding man and walked into the milling crowd of people.
With a look of dejection, the man yielded in defeat. He felt a twist of admiration at Coaldon’s courage and noble character.
Coaldon spent the rest of the day exploring the area around the city. He examined the ancient walls and watched people moving in and out of the massive gates. He took special note of the movement of the guards. He memorized where the guards stood, the number of guards at each station and how people gained access to the city.
The young half elf took the time to visit with people as they waited to enter the city. On his walk around the outskirts of the city, he observed the features of the land surrounding the walls.
As the sun set, Coaldon gathered with his friends at the West Gate. Little was said as they walked south from the city to a hill surrounded by a thick grove of trees. A twisted trail led up the knoll. It was difficult to walk up the path because of the dense cover of thorny bushes and brambles. When the group approached the top, two large dogs rushed at them barking frantically. The dogs stopped when Sid leaped in front of them. The two dogs positioned themselves to attack Sid. Topple, with a casual motion of his arms, pointed his right hand at the dogs.
In the distance they heard a voice yell, “Don’t you dare fry my dogs. They are only happy to see you.”
With an air of pompous arrogance, Topple released a small burst of energy at the two dogs. As the surge hit the animals, a dancing light flickered around their bodies, ending with a burst of red sparks shooting out the dog’s noses. The dogs yelped in terror and ran back into the trees with tails between their legs. In the distance a tall woman walked from the trees with the two dogs cowering behind her. With long, confident strides she approached the group. She had a pleasant face, long brown hair, a slender body and sparkling eyes.
With indignation she looked at Topple saying, “If my dogs do not recover from this shameful attack, I will singe every miserable gray hair on your body.”
Topple smiled as he responded, “I was just offering the world a special service. The dogs were being rude and disrespectful. In the future, their manners will improve. I know you will learn to appreciate my gift.”
Coaldon’s four traveling companions greeted the woman with obvious friendship and warmth. Coaldon looked at her with bewilderment. He detected something familiar about her, but could not identify it. With understanding, Pacer turned to Coaldon with an open smile.
He said, “I know you must be thoroughly confused by now. I want to introduce you to Hilda, Topple’s sister. She is of the Order of Glad. She can change the way people perceive her in order to hide her identity. Everyone in Neverly, including Crossmore, can only see an old blind lady. For us she appears as h
er true self.”
Hilda approached Coaldon with a warm glow.
She said to him, “It is my pleasure to meet you. I have waited a long time for you to assume your role as Crown Prince. I realize you are confused by the change in my appearance. I must change shapes to protect myself. Crossmore tolerates me because he thinks I am harmless. Anyway, it is good to keep Crossmore guessing about my identity.”
The group walked a short distance to an opening in the side of the hill. The entrance into her home led into a pleasant dwelling furnished with wooden furniture and woven wall tapestries. A fragrant dinner was simmering on a large stove under a window overlooking the city. Without interruption, two young ladies wearing bright green uniforms served the meal in exquisite style. Hilda introduced the two helpers as her apprentices. She explained they were the best candidates she had ever instructed.
The meal was simple, yet elegant. Sweet roots were cooked in a light sauce of red watercress, sugar maple and green bitters. Roast duck was marinated in sweet rose oil and slowly cooked over a low fire. The vegetables were flavored with a delicate coat of honey and tart rootmeg. Coaldon had never eaten a meal with such robust flavors.
After the dinner, Pacer called the group together to discuss the rescue of Noel. Pacer carefully explained to Hilda the history of the past year. Special emphasis was spent on Coaldon’s adventure with Crossmore. He concluded by reviewing the plan to rescue Noel.
After Pacer had finished, Hilda carefully probed each of the five rescuers with her penetrating eyes. Coaldon responded to these nonverbal inquiries with his own nonverbal examination of her character. As he looked deeply into her eyes, he detected a rich wealth of knowledge and wisdom. He relaxed as the truth of her nature flooded him with understanding.
Hilda finally stated, “It sounds as if you have developed a good rescue plan. It will not be long before it will be the first day of spring. Please do not rush any part of your planning. I invite you to meet with me in four days. May the One Presence bless us in our mission.”
The group left Hilda’s home in a different direction than they arrived. After they walked a short distance, Pacer stopped and listened. He signaled the group to proceed while he hid in the brush. Several minutes later the four men heard a shout of surprise. The group returned to find a man lying on the ground with Pacer’s sword pointed at his chest.
Pacer demanded, “Who are you and why are you following us?”
The trembling man said, “My name is Bodso. Robbet has assigned me to follow you. He is concerned about your safety.”
Pacer removed his sword and invited the man to stand.
Pacer said, “We can take care of ourselves. We do not need your help at this time. It is dangerous for you to follow us. Please extend our thanks to Robbet, but we must not be limited by your interference. How can we contact you if we need your help?”
Bodso responded, “I will give your request to Robbet. We will have a friend stationed at the West Gate at noon each day. He will be wearing a red hat. Just say ‘spring is beautiful’ as the password. He will say ‘the flowers are red’.”
Bodso departed, and the group found shelter in an abandoned cabin near the river. This location would act as home for several weeks.
The death of Wastelow was a major topic of discussion throughout the area. On the day after his death, Wastelow’s body lay in state in the Church of the One Presence. Only the people with money and position were allowed to view the body. Late in the afternoon Crossmore and Regee arrived for a short memorial service in honor of the dead Emperor. The church was full of people who expressed little sorrow over the death of Wastelow. The service was performed in a dignified manner, lasting about thirty minutes. Crossmore dominated the funeral with his overpowering charm. He fronted his counterfeit grief by giving an emotionally laden eulogy of Wastelow’s service to the Empire. Regee remained quiet and offered bogus tears of mourning. After the requiem was sung, a solemn procession took Wastelow’s body to be buried in the Hall of Emperors.
After the internment, Regee called a meeting of the Council of Advisors. Regee demanded he be immediately crowned Emperor. The members of the council protested, but Regee was surprisingly supported by Crossmore. The coronation was held in the Grand Hall of the Palace with only twenty people in attendance. After the coronation Regee sat on the throne with the look of benevolence, but in reality he felt only contempt for his subjects.
Petra, his loyal attendant, waited on him with complete servitude. The servant enjoyed being the head butler for the new emperor. Petra submissively nodded in approval at anything Regee said or did.
He listened carefully as Regee told him, “I feel sorrow at the death of my dear daddy. I will suffer this loss with the dignity of a true gentleman. Thankfully, I can now fulfill my destiny. I will act with humility when people of the kingdom bow to me in homage. I have always wanted to live a life of luxury and power. I will demand complete obedience. Ah! Ah!”
As Regee basked in his new found glory, events in the city were unfolding according to plan. Each day, the members of the rescue team learned more about the city. Coaldon always spent some time watching the windows in the East Tower. He was pleased when a young woman appeared at the window. She did not see him among the crowds of people, but at least he saw the reason for his quest.
Topple and Earthkin were gaining near celebrity status in their performance as master and slave. Topple’s grandiose behavior was complimented by Earthkin’s subservient groveling and whining. Topple was especially good at throwing scraps of food onto the ground with an eccentric flair. Earthkin was then forced to crawl on the ground grasping for the food. Coaldon noticed the crowds were starting to support Earthkin. At times groups would boo Topple for being so cruel to pathetic Earthkin. Topple responded to the crowd’s boos by bowing in a grand, theatrical fashion.
The next meeting with Hilda included a lengthy discussion of the many different aspects of the rescue attempt. Hilda ended the meeting by talking about the escape from the city.
She said, “I do not believe you can make a clean escape unless a diversion is created. Do you have any ideas how this could be accomplished?”
Brother Patrick stated, “I wonder if we could use Robbet and his band of thieves to create a distraction south of the city? He might be willing to help us. If we use him, I suggest we do not give him any clue about the time, date or reason for their involvement. At the designated time and date, his small army will make hit and run attacks against the royal troops. We will only give him several hours notice before they are to attack. We should offer him a reward in gold for his cooperation.”
Hilda and Pacer were pleased with Brother Patrick’s plan. Coaldon volunteered to contact Bodso to begin negotiations with Robbet. The next item on the agenda was the decision to send a reconnaissance group to check out the tunnel under the palace. Coaldon, Brother Patrick and Pacer were assigned the responsibility to make the first venture under the palace. The group would enter the tunnel the next day to begin the exploration. Finally, Topple, Earthkin and Hilda were given the job of locating horses for the escape to the mountains. The final details would be worked out just before the actual rescue operation.
~ ~
Under the Palace
He said to the team, “We are being followed. I suggest we turn and greet our new friends. This will help dispel any misconceptions.”
The travelers stopped and turned to face the group. They were a motley group of poverty stricken men. Their thin, haggard bodies and hollow eyes reflected their need for food. The warriors knew hungry men could be dangerous. Pacer stepped forward in a slow, casual manner. He raised his hand as a sign of welcome.
He said, “Greetings, we travel to Neverly looking for work and food. We desire to avoid any conflict.”
Loud, sarcastic laughter erupted from the unsavory group. In an arrogant and defiant manner, a short, thin man walked toward the five travelers.
He said, “You offer us great humor. All we ask for is your money. Then, we will leave you alone. Now save yourselves grief by handing over your coins.”
Pacer responded, “Again, we seek no trouble with you. As it has been said, ‘Live and let live’. Let it be known, we will ably defend ourselves.”
The vagrants raised their arms in mockery and gave cynical shouts of fear. The group advanced on the five warriors with clubs and rocks in hand.
Coaldon stepped forward, declaring. “We come in friendship. Do not waste your blood by attacking us. Be wise. Leave us alone.”
Before anybody could act, a yell came from the crowd watching the impending disaster. With long strides, Robbet stepped from the bystander. He ordered the advancing group to stop. The thief walked forward with the confidence of a commander. His eyes flashed with intelligence and his body moved with authority. The advancing vagrants showed respect to his invisible influence. The group stopped and held a short meeting with Robbet. Several beggars looked up at the five travelers with suspicious glances as the conversation continued. Finally, the cloud of hostility dissolved from the vagrants. The character of the mob shifted from aggressiveness to reconciliation.
With downcast eyes the man leading the mob approached the rescuers saying, “We extend salutations to you. Your friends from the forest have offered you safe passage. Go in peace.”
The mob quickly dispersed into the fading light of day. No further attention was given to the newcomers.
The five travelers continued down the road with no desire to talk with anybody. They did not want to draw any attention to their journey. As darkness blanketed the area, they spotted an old barn in a weed choked field. Alert to any possible encounter with the local homeless, the travelers carefully approached the barn. The inside was littered with old fire pits and garbage. After consuming a warm dinner, they had a peaceful night’s sleep.
At the first light of day, the group continued their trek toward the capital city. As they topped a knoll, the walls of Neverly could be seen in the distance. The two towers of the city dominated the skyline. The gray, dark walls of the city framed the west gate in a vivid outline. The Slownic River, with its tree covered banks, snaked across the land forming a barrier between them and the city. The five travelers could see the West Road join the North-South Road in front of the famous Talking Bridge.
The Talking Bridge, spanning the Slownic River, was the magnificent creation of the dwarves and elves. Marble and granite blocks, quarried in the Sadden Mountains by the dwarves, were used to build the foundation. It was the architectural miracle crafted by the elves at the height of their genius. The beautiful bridge stretched across the river in a graceful series of arches with no obvious means of support. The magic of the elves was infused into each block of the bridge, allowing it to stand against the force of gravity. The interlocking bonds of magic within the bridge created a flow of energy that sounded like whispering voices. This sound would often cause people to run across the bridge in fear of being cursed by the murmuring resonance. The warriors stopped to marvel at the splendor of the bridge. Even though corruption abounded, the elegance of the Talking Bridge stood as a testament to potential goodness in the world.
With reluctance the rescue group lowered their eyes from the majesty of the bridge and focused on the road descending to the river. As they approached the Talking Bridge, small bands of beggars were making their daily migration into the city in search of food. The homeless mixed together as they crossed the bridge without being aware of its beauty or miraculous creation. The crowd of people walked with fatigued steps up the narrow road leading to the city’s west gate. The five travelers, in their ragged clothes, blended into the milling crowd of people as they approached the city. On both sides of the large metal gate, vagrants huddled in small clusters watching the arrival of the tragic parade of poverty. The soldiers pushed the beggars into large holding areas to have better control of them in case trouble erupted. This mass of humanity looked like a tide of misery washing up against the wall of the city. At the appointed time, several wagons arrived from the city with the daily ration of food for the homeless. Wastelow determined it was better to feed the crowds, rather than face a rebellion.
The warriors stood in disbelief as the vagrants made an uncontrolled rush at the wagons to gain their share of the food. Coaldon saw how poverty had driven normal people to act like wild animals. He noticed how the weak and ill beggars were pushed aside with little or no concern for their health or safety. The soldiers advanced on the mob with lowered spears to regain control. As the hungry mob formed into orderly lines, the distribution of food began. The five travelers found a place at the end of the line. When their turn arrived to be served, each received a small ration of bread, cheese and watery soup. Pacer led the group to a secluded location next to the city wall. The mob became quiet after the food was handed out. Several beggars roamed around the crowd stealing food from the weak. If individuals protested, the thieves would cuff them. Bullies had a free-hand to do as they pleased. The ability to remain human was a challenge in the face of lawlessness.
The new arrivals were so engrossed by the churning mass of people they did not notice an old blind lady approaching them. The decrepit woman had a small, skinny body with wrinkled, brown skin. Her weathered face emitted the solid strength of the earth. She wore a ragged dress stained with many weeks of collected grime. Her white empty eyes were directed towards some unseen reality. She approached the team with the guidance of her walking stick. The hair on Sid’s back stood up as he gave a deep growl of warning.
She pointed the stick directly at Coaldon saying, “What has taken you so long to get here? I expected you several days ago!”
Coaldon looked in disbelief at the old woman. He finally said, “I do not know what you are talking about.”
The old woman gave a loud cackling laugh as she lifted her arms into the air. “My, you have the same temperament as your father. I can feel his presence stirring in your body and mind. Yes, this should be a most enjoyable adventure. Pacer, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Neverly. I extend my greetings to Brother Patrick and Earthkin. Your reputations stand as monuments to your fine character. Oh, and if it isn’t the unfortunate Topple. You must be the most worthless person in the world. I should have drowned your sorry soul when I had the chance.”
Topple’s eyes sparkled at the unexpected challenge. He slowly stood up, spread his feet apart and placed his open hands on his hips. He said, “It has been a long time, Hilda. The last time we met, your uncensored words created a rebellion in the Empire.”
Hilda pointed her walking stick at Topple saying, “Why must the world be tortured by such a marginal example of humanity?”
The flicker of a smile grew on Topple’s face. He finally said, “You have tormented many people with the emptiness of your mind.”
Hilda arched her back as she prepared her next rebuttal. With clearly articulated words she said, “The simplistic nature of your foolish personality is found in the acts of lit
Topple’s face finally blossomed into a broad smile. He countered, “It would seem your mouth continues to control your common sense.”
Topple and Hilda then rushed forward into each others arms. At this signal, all the members of the group except Coaldon started laughing and clapping with pleasure.
Coaldon questioned, “What is going on with these two?”
Pacer laughed as he said, “Hilda and Topple are brother and sister. They have not seen each other for many years. This bantering is their special way of saying hello. I was hoping we would find her here. She has magical powers we can use.” Several beggars sitting in the area of the encounter started to stare. Hilda had the reputation of being a strange and dangerous person with few friends. People believed she could cast a spell of misfortune, merely with the look of her blind eyes. Nobody, out of fear of being turned into a toad, rat or maybe a snake, ever went near her hut south of the city.
Pacer finally said, “We need to be more discrete. Spies could report us to Crossmore. We could visit with Hilda, but I believe it is time to start our investigation of the city. Let’s meet here at sundown. Hilda, we will visit you this evening.”
Before departing, Hilda gave directions to her home.
As she walked away, each member of the group began to mingle with the crowd of vagrants. Coaldon and Sid walked north along the city wall until they reached the edge of the crowd. Coaldon sat down next to a small group of individuals talking in quiet voices. He pulled his hood over his head to offer an image of disinterest. He removed his knife from its scabbard and held it loosely in his hand under his coat. Being prepared for an unanticipated threat was becoming second nature to him. As Coaldon listened, the conversation of a small group shifted from topic to topic without any direction or purpose. It seemed the meaningless discussion helped fill the void between sunrise and sunset. The elf soon lost interest in the discussion.
Coaldon’s attention was reawakened when the subject changed to Wastelow and Crossmore.
“I heard that Wastelow died today. Did anybody else hear this rumor?”
“Yes, it is true. Wastelow is dead. They say he will be buried tomorrow in the royal crypt.
“I believe that Prince Regee will be crowned by authority of the five royal advisors. The Empire is in deep trouble when Regee takes the throne. He is so pathetic.”
“Ruffor, you should not speak out against the new Emperor, or you will face retaliation.”
Coaldon saw people looking around to see if anybody heard the seditious comment.
Finally someone with a soft voice commented, “Did you hear that Crossmore has not been seen for nine days? I heard he received wounds when he was attacked while working in his tower.”
“How could he be attacked in the tower?”
“I don’t know, but I would like to thank the person for performing such an important service for the Empire. The power of the wizard is increasing every day. I believe Crossmore will ultimately eliminate Regee. If Crossmore takes power we will be given food, but in the process we will sell our souls in his evil plan. I believe I have said too much, yet I feel so helpless.”
Moaning in agreement, everyone again looked around for spies. At this point, somebody noticed Coaldon sitting next to the group.
A loud voice shouted, “Hey you, what are doing there?” The young half elf ignored the question.
Again he heard a voice say, “I am talking to you. Who are you?”
Coaldon heard someone walking towards him in slow, deliberate steps. Finally, he felt the pain of a solid kick to his side. Coaldon looked out from under his hood with sleepy eyes.
He said, “Why did you do that? I was just resting.”
The man pulled his knife and pointed it at Coaldon. He ordered, “Stand up and let us get a look at you.”
Coaldon slowly stood up, keeping his knife concealed. He responded, “I just arrived yesterday from the Village of Grandy. I came here looking for work. I do not know anything about this city.”
The man advanced on Coaldon with his knife raised.
He exclaimed, “You must be a spy. Otherwise, why would you be sitting next to us?”
Suddenly he thrust his knife at Coaldon’s chest.
As Coaldon stepped to the right, the knife tore a hole in his clothing. Coaldon declared, “I am not a spy.”
Sid walked to a position putting him between the two fighters and the crowd. As several men stepped forward to help their friend, Sid bared his teeth and growled. Sid’s threat of attack forced the crowd to stay back.
The man laughed and made a slashing motion with his knife. Coaldon darted to his left and grabbed the man’s arm as it passed in front of him. With a swift twist of his body, he flipped his assailant on the ground.
The half elf repeated, “I am not a spy. I come in peace. I do not want to hurt you!” The man jumped to his feet and made a running dive at Coaldon. Coaldon stepped to the side and intentionally made a small cut on the man’s forehead. The man fell to the ground in an uncoordinated tumble. He gripped his head to stop the bleeding. Coaldon stood over him with a stern face and a dominate posture.
Coaldon said, “Next time you attack me, you will die.”
With Sid at his side, he turned his back to the bleeding man and walked into the milling crowd of people.
With a look of dejection, the man yielded in defeat. He felt a twist of admiration at Coaldon’s courage and noble character.
Coaldon spent the rest of the day exploring the area around the city. He examined the ancient walls and watched people moving in and out of the massive gates. He took special note of the movement of the guards. He memorized where the guards stood, the number of guards at each station and how people gained access to the city.
The young half elf took the time to visit with people as they waited to enter the city. On his walk around the outskirts of the city, he observed the features of the land surrounding the walls.
As the sun set, Coaldon gathered with his friends at the West Gate. Little was said as they walked south from the city to a hill surrounded by a thick grove of trees. A twisted trail led up the knoll. It was difficult to walk up the path because of the dense cover of thorny bushes and brambles. When the group approached the top, two large dogs rushed at them barking frantically. The dogs stopped when Sid leaped in front of them. The two dogs positioned themselves to attack Sid. Topple, with a casual motion of his arms, pointed his right hand at the dogs.
In the distance they heard a voice yell, “Don’t you dare fry my dogs. They are only happy to see you.”
With an air of pompous arrogance, Topple released a small burst of energy at the two dogs. As the surge hit the animals, a dancing light flickered around their bodies, ending with a burst of red sparks shooting out the dog’s noses. The dogs yelped in terror and ran back into the trees with tails between their legs. In the distance a tall woman walked from the trees with the two dogs cowering behind her. With long, confident strides she approached the group. She had a pleasant face, long brown hair, a slender body and sparkling eyes.
With indignation she looked at Topple saying, “If my dogs do not recover from this shameful attack, I will singe every miserable gray hair on your body.”
Topple smiled as he responded, “I was just offering the world a special service. The dogs were being rude and disrespectful. In the future, their manners will improve. I know you will learn to appreciate my gift.”
Coaldon’s four traveling companions greeted the woman with obvious friendship and warmth. Coaldon looked at her with bewilderment. He detected something familiar about her, but could not identify it. With understanding, Pacer turned to Coaldon with an open smile.
He said, “I know you must be thoroughly confused by now. I want to introduce you to Hilda, Topple’s sister. She is of the Order of Glad. She can change the way people perceive her in order to hide her identity. Everyone in Neverly, including Crossmore, can only see an old blind lady. For us she appears as h
Hilda approached Coaldon with a warm glow.
She said to him, “It is my pleasure to meet you. I have waited a long time for you to assume your role as Crown Prince. I realize you are confused by the change in my appearance. I must change shapes to protect myself. Crossmore tolerates me because he thinks I am harmless. Anyway, it is good to keep Crossmore guessing about my identity.”
The group walked a short distance to an opening in the side of the hill. The entrance into her home led into a pleasant dwelling furnished with wooden furniture and woven wall tapestries. A fragrant dinner was simmering on a large stove under a window overlooking the city. Without interruption, two young ladies wearing bright green uniforms served the meal in exquisite style. Hilda introduced the two helpers as her apprentices. She explained they were the best candidates she had ever instructed.
The meal was simple, yet elegant. Sweet roots were cooked in a light sauce of red watercress, sugar maple and green bitters. Roast duck was marinated in sweet rose oil and slowly cooked over a low fire. The vegetables were flavored with a delicate coat of honey and tart rootmeg. Coaldon had never eaten a meal with such robust flavors.
After the dinner, Pacer called the group together to discuss the rescue of Noel. Pacer carefully explained to Hilda the history of the past year. Special emphasis was spent on Coaldon’s adventure with Crossmore. He concluded by reviewing the plan to rescue Noel.
After Pacer had finished, Hilda carefully probed each of the five rescuers with her penetrating eyes. Coaldon responded to these nonverbal inquiries with his own nonverbal examination of her character. As he looked deeply into her eyes, he detected a rich wealth of knowledge and wisdom. He relaxed as the truth of her nature flooded him with understanding.
Hilda finally stated, “It sounds as if you have developed a good rescue plan. It will not be long before it will be the first day of spring. Please do not rush any part of your planning. I invite you to meet with me in four days. May the One Presence bless us in our mission.”
The group left Hilda’s home in a different direction than they arrived. After they walked a short distance, Pacer stopped and listened. He signaled the group to proceed while he hid in the brush. Several minutes later the four men heard a shout of surprise. The group returned to find a man lying on the ground with Pacer’s sword pointed at his chest.
Pacer demanded, “Who are you and why are you following us?”
The trembling man said, “My name is Bodso. Robbet has assigned me to follow you. He is concerned about your safety.”
Pacer removed his sword and invited the man to stand.
Pacer said, “We can take care of ourselves. We do not need your help at this time. It is dangerous for you to follow us. Please extend our thanks to Robbet, but we must not be limited by your interference. How can we contact you if we need your help?”
Bodso responded, “I will give your request to Robbet. We will have a friend stationed at the West Gate at noon each day. He will be wearing a red hat. Just say ‘spring is beautiful’ as the password. He will say ‘the flowers are red’.”
Bodso departed, and the group found shelter in an abandoned cabin near the river. This location would act as home for several weeks.
The death of Wastelow was a major topic of discussion throughout the area. On the day after his death, Wastelow’s body lay in state in the Church of the One Presence. Only the people with money and position were allowed to view the body. Late in the afternoon Crossmore and Regee arrived for a short memorial service in honor of the dead Emperor. The church was full of people who expressed little sorrow over the death of Wastelow. The service was performed in a dignified manner, lasting about thirty minutes. Crossmore dominated the funeral with his overpowering charm. He fronted his counterfeit grief by giving an emotionally laden eulogy of Wastelow’s service to the Empire. Regee remained quiet and offered bogus tears of mourning. After the requiem was sung, a solemn procession took Wastelow’s body to be buried in the Hall of Emperors.
After the internment, Regee called a meeting of the Council of Advisors. Regee demanded he be immediately crowned Emperor. The members of the council protested, but Regee was surprisingly supported by Crossmore. The coronation was held in the Grand Hall of the Palace with only twenty people in attendance. After the coronation Regee sat on the throne with the look of benevolence, but in reality he felt only contempt for his subjects.
Petra, his loyal attendant, waited on him with complete servitude. The servant enjoyed being the head butler for the new emperor. Petra submissively nodded in approval at anything Regee said or did.
He listened carefully as Regee told him, “I feel sorrow at the death of my dear daddy. I will suffer this loss with the dignity of a true gentleman. Thankfully, I can now fulfill my destiny. I will act with humility when people of the kingdom bow to me in homage. I have always wanted to live a life of luxury and power. I will demand complete obedience. Ah! Ah!”
As Regee basked in his new found glory, events in the city were unfolding according to plan. Each day, the members of the rescue team learned more about the city. Coaldon always spent some time watching the windows in the East Tower. He was pleased when a young woman appeared at the window. She did not see him among the crowds of people, but at least he saw the reason for his quest.
Topple and Earthkin were gaining near celebrity status in their performance as master and slave. Topple’s grandiose behavior was complimented by Earthkin’s subservient groveling and whining. Topple was especially good at throwing scraps of food onto the ground with an eccentric flair. Earthkin was then forced to crawl on the ground grasping for the food. Coaldon noticed the crowds were starting to support Earthkin. At times groups would boo Topple for being so cruel to pathetic Earthkin. Topple responded to the crowd’s boos by bowing in a grand, theatrical fashion.
The next meeting with Hilda included a lengthy discussion of the many different aspects of the rescue attempt. Hilda ended the meeting by talking about the escape from the city.
She said, “I do not believe you can make a clean escape unless a diversion is created. Do you have any ideas how this could be accomplished?”
Brother Patrick stated, “I wonder if we could use Robbet and his band of thieves to create a distraction south of the city? He might be willing to help us. If we use him, I suggest we do not give him any clue about the time, date or reason for their involvement. At the designated time and date, his small army will make hit and run attacks against the royal troops. We will only give him several hours notice before they are to attack. We should offer him a reward in gold for his cooperation.”
Hilda and Pacer were pleased with Brother Patrick’s plan. Coaldon volunteered to contact Bodso to begin negotiations with Robbet. The next item on the agenda was the decision to send a reconnaissance group to check out the tunnel under the palace. Coaldon, Brother Patrick and Pacer were assigned the responsibility to make the first venture under the palace. The group would enter the tunnel the next day to begin the exploration. Finally, Topple, Earthkin and Hilda were given the job of locating horses for the escape to the mountains. The final details would be worked out just before the actual rescue operation.
~ ~
Under the Palace