Blood of the Merciless

Chapter Thirty-One

31.

"Something is wrong," Cressela said. He sat behind her on the horse.

"I can feel it, there is an energy surrounding my city," Ivo said.

"More like a Phen barrier," Cressela replied.

What is happening?

"I hope the families are not causing issues again," Drustan stated behind them.

"Even if that sort of event occurred, I did not give permission to erect a barrier. There is something bigger going on." Ivo said.

"It couldn't be the same group of adventurers who attacked Isern, could it?" Drustan asked.

Cressela scoffed. "There is a big difference between Isern and Adhu Aqua. Those adventurers wouldn't have been able to set foot into the city."

"You got a point there, O Great Protector."

Cressela scoffed at the nickname.

"Let's make haste, we cannot waste any more time!" Ivo ordered.

"You heard the Great Lord!" Cressela yelled.

"Yes, Commander!" The soldiers exclaimed as the small squadron picked up their pace.

Ivo felt his horse pull to a stop. He had assumed they reached one of the gates to the city. Another reason he was certain of this fact was that he felt a familiar aura in front of them.

"Commander Gregory, it is not common that you are so eager to meet us," Ivo said.

"I was made aware of your arrival and thought it would be kind to welcome you back." Col retorted.

"How thoughtful." Cressela retorted.

While Cressela's relationship with Commander Drustan had been playful, her relationship with Commander Col had been hostile. Nothing he ever did could smooth it out. Cressela helped him get off of the horse. He steadily made his way to face Commander Gregory.

"While that seemed pleasant, you must be aware that it raises some suspicion." He said.

"I am well aware of that."

"Have you lost your honour, Commander Gregory? To whom are you speaking?" Cressela asked.

Ivo heard the man chuckle.

"Why is there a barrier around my city, Commander?" Ivo asked sternly.

"Just precautions, it seems that Meinspir is plotting an attack against us."

Ivo was taken aback by the news. He and the king were on good terms. Why would they attack?

"These are matters that we should discuss within private quarters. But still, you had no orders to erect a barrier." Ivo said.

Ivo turned back to where he assumed his horse was.

"There is more news, a man named Alaric is currently being held within the castle. He mentioned that he knows you." Col stated.

What happened when I was away?

Ivo struggled to hold back a smile. He felt Cressela's hand on his shoulder.

"Do not get your hopes up yet," Cressela whispered.

Ivo nodded as she helped him onto the horse.

The soldiers began to move but they were halted as Commander Col raised his hand.

"What is it now, Commander?" Cressela asked in a rude tone.

"I am afraid I have orders to only allow the two commanders and the Great Lord within the city walls," Col said.