The Other Apprentice

14-1 | Return to Lytgard

The wagon trundled along the road, pulled by two sturdy horses, headed north toward the garrison at Cragwind Pass. It had been over four months since Tenet had first laid eyes on the garrison, which marked the southern border of Lytgard. When he left it that day, he knew not when he would again return to the borders of his home kingdom. But in his heart, he knew he would return a wizard.

Well, a wizard's apprentice. Close enough for now.

Beside him, Mason, the oldest active member of the Ordo, held the reins guiding the horses. Despite the difference in age, Tenet found he could relate easily to Mason. The man was himself a scholar, well read in the sciences, applying his knowledge to a passion for invention and engineering. They'd had plenty of opportunity to talk on the first day of the trip.

It was now morning on the second day. Knowing they wouldn't make it to the garrison before nightfall when the mighty gates closed, they had spent the night at an inn in Muirwood. As long as the roads ahead were clear, they should be able to reach Bradwyr by evening. The mission was urgent; there was no time to waste.

Behind them was a second wagon containing more tools and lumber, as well as the other three members of their team. Besides Sarya, who sat in the driver's seat of the wagon, there were two other members of the Ordo that Tenet had not met before, Uri and Heron, to provide extra muscle. Uri was riding on the back of the rear wagon, watching the road behind them.

As they gained elevation and moved further inland from the coast, they could soon see the large stone watchtowers of Cragwind Pass. Traffic was always rare along this road, even amongst the merchants, as the lands south of Lytgard saw regular fighting and changed hands from one greedy land baron to another while refugees took to the woods, resorting to banditry.

Despite the rarity of travelers, the guards at the southern garrison remained vigilant.

As the wagon approached the gates, the guards immediately called on Mason to stop the carriage. As two guards checked the contents of the wagon, another pair collected the border tax. The guard took the offered coins from Mason and examined the horses and wagon. "Ordo transport. What's your business then, and where do you hail from?"

Mason pursed his lips, weighing how much to tell the guard. "The mine collapse in Bradwyr. Our contract is to save the trapped miners. And I'm from Eibryn in the Dale Kingdoms."

The guard raised an eyebrow. "Mining disaster? I've heard nothing of it. Ain't never heard of no dale kingdom named Eibryn, neither."

Mason gave a half shrug. "Ordo communication is quick and Bradwyr is remote. It doesn't look like a lot of traffic comes through here to bring you news. And I am not surprised you've not heard of Eibryn; Remond took it over 30 years ago. I've been in Stillbrook since."

The guard thought about it a moment, then nodded his head before turning to Tenet. 'And you? Where are you from?"

The second guard called out, "Sergeant, don't you recognize him? This here's the wizard boy came through all puffed up and proud, giving orders to the captain back harvest time. Thought he was all high and mighty, eating at the lord's table. Now here he is, another reject, passed over by that fraud of a wizard. Joined the Ordo like all the rest. No better than no one." He spat on the ground.

The lieutenant peered closer at Tenet. "Why, so it is. Put on a bit of muscle, lad. And a sword. Should've stayed with us and been a genuine soldier."

Tenet resisted the urge to call up a gust of wind and show the soldiers what he was truly capable of. Tempting as it was, there was nothing to be gained by making enemies of the soldiers. Besides, it would probably spook the horses. "Extend my courtesies to Captain Garett," Tenet spoke. "Let him know that I am unable to join him this time for a meal, as I have pressing business on behalf of my master, Madrigal."