Forged in Fire - (Part 5 of the Ignaius-Saga)

The Lion's Denn

The next days were not much different from those that had just passed: Tanier used his time to inspect troops and their commander, to meet and talk to people, while Variel spent half his day with the scouts. Mostly they simply tolerated him. Aside of the rather indifferent attitude, some men rather sought him out, volunteered to explain things to him or ride with him, while others quite obviously kept their distance. Occasionally a look, a crude remark or a conversation that suddenly died, when Variel approached, indicated that they were not necessarily have favorable opinions on him or at least shared some of the gossip that was going around, but everyone was careful to not overstep their boundaries with an open insult.

Tanier clearly selected the activities in the time he spent with Variel to let him see a wide variety of activities and would occasionally discuss details with him later over dinner. In his opinion Alexton had made a big mistake by writing off his son and keeping him away from everything the boy seemed not "manly" enough for. He could see, how this had been easier for the father, who feared his son, and for the brothers, who had someone to pick on - and as a result less competition in a house with already too many sons, as it was an effective way to eliminate Variel from the list of potential successors. He did not expect Variel to change all of a sudden, but he saw enough talent in him. He was curious and intelligent and was a good observer. He would never impress anyone with his strength or fighting skills, but he wasn't sure, if he may not be able to become a good strategist in the long run. In any case military life was part of his own life and as they had decided that Variel would share it, it was only reasonable to let him learn about it as much as possible.

As they approached Palewind Castle, the climate changed. The temperatures increased, but as they got closer to the coast, the winds caught up and made traveling pleasant enough, despite the heat, although they eventually started to break camp as soon as the sun came up and to rest for a few hours during the midday heat. It was on a late afternoon, after crossing a ridge that they could see the ocean for the first time. As not all soldiers had seen the great water before, it caused some commotion and resulted in an outstanding performance that day, as everyone was not just excited to reach the shoreline, but also their final destination. It was only two more days until they would arrive at Palewind Castle.

Their arrival had been announced through messengers, so they were greeted with people lining the streets and everything being prepared for a festive entry, much as it had been the case at Stoneshield Keep - just that this time they had a whole army in tow. Again Variel was riding at Tanier's side, so was Jirak.

Over the ancient bridge that crossed the huge river they reached the city that was mostly a labyrinth of small streets, shops, markets, houses, taverns and temples. They followed the main road that cut straight through it to ascend to the citadel that was build from yellow stone and towering over the city. At the gates Lady Ayt-Airy was waiting for them, accompanied by her dignitaries and children. The woman, who was known throughout the realm for her exotic beauty, had selected an outfit of remarkable simplicity in dark colors, clearly communicating her sorrow and grief over an absent husband. In Tanier's eyes a remarkable choice, given that the man had to be considered a traitor. Still he was greeted with the respect and courtesy due to a king and he answered in kind. Of the many people, who were watching, almost all of them would confirm that this was a happy day and a joyous occasion for the whole Shaded Coast. Elina was standing next to her mother. As they all walked inside, her eyes let very little to the imagination, how she liked seeing Variel again - and at the king's side at that.

Variel was on high alert as they approached the city and the main castle, observing everything and everyone they passed. He was always both nervous and curious when in a new place, but the moment they approached the gates and he saw Elina standing there, he became more nervous. He'd not really thought on it much - astonishingly - but he was now in the home of his family's greatest rival. Even at the king's side, he didn't feel safe.