The Oreans

Chapter 24

Chapter 24
A Secret Conference

"You're kidding, commander!"

"I'm not, Sir Levi," said Lord Melvil, casting the senior master an amused smile. Most of the senior masters laughed heartily at the exclamation, and all the other Oreans, particularly those in lower ranks, either covered their mouth or pretended coughing so as not to offend the officer. It had been a while before order was restored to the company gathered that early morning at the campground.

"But, sir, the Spring Flower Festival?" It was Berun, the senior master.

"I know you are all wondering why we're holding the Spring Flower Festival. It's been five years now since we last had it. It's in fact the regent who made the decision. He said it's time for us to end the mourning over our beloved king and queen and welcome the New Year with hope for our next ruler."

Divan looked from Adrien to Rafim, who were standing on either side of him. They did not seem happy with the news that had caused this rare Orean gathering, especially Rafim, who still looked haggard from their journey back.

"Does the princess know?" asked Adrien.

"Yes, she does."

"Does she approve of it, sir?" Rafim said. "It's Her Highness' opinion that matters here."

"Yes, she approves of it."

"But, sir, the New Year was only a few weeks from now," Divan said. "Preparations should have been made a long time ago."

"Archduke Guilem said he'd already arranged for everything. Listen, my knights. I'm meeting you this morning to discuss our share of responsibility in the festival. The regent already ordered the Bronzeans to maintain peace and order everywhere all throughout the celebration. Our sole task is to make sure that no harm befalls the princess during the two-day festival."

"That's easy enough, Commander," said Nefil.

Divan knew how mistaken the senior master was. Lord Melvil only smiled though.

"How about the Argentines, sir?" asked a junior master whom Divan seldom spoke to. "What will be their task?"

"They'll be guarding the members of the Circle," the commander replied.

"The Circle?" a curly-haired apprentice called Kurel muttered to Alen in front of him. "If I know, there'll just be looking after the prime minister."

Pretending he did not hear, Divan ignored Alen who glanced around at him.

Obviously, the commander himself didn't. He said, "Tomorrow, I'll post your assignments for the festival. I trust no one will complain, and everyone will fulfill his duty conscientiously."

"Yes, sir," the Oreans chorused.

"Good! That's all I have to say for now. You may return to your duties."

Over the din that ensued, Divan heard Jebin call Adrien.

"The commander has just told me he wants you, Masters Rafim and Divan and also Alen in his office."

"Why?" Divan asked.

"I'm sorry, but he did not explain why."

Wondering what was afoot, Divan beckoned Alen and followed his two comrades. They found the commander talking with Fidel at the door of his office. When he saw them, he invited them in.

"I'm glad you, three, are back," the commander said, looking from Alen to Rafim then to him Divan. "The princess will be comforted once she learns you're here. She keeps on asking about you from Miel."