The Dragon Bond: Heirs of Lyra

Chapter 20

"Move it more to the right!" Henry shouted over at the men who were installing the observation towers.

King Alan had accepted Henry's plan and since then they had been working hard to carry out the new orders. At first Henry had been hesitant about his decisions. However, now that things were finally coming together, Henry had more faith in his original ideas. This could work, he thought.

It had only taken a few long days for the work of hundreds of hardworking men to finally pay off. Henry's first command had finally been fully carried out and now there was a large wooden barrier encircling Lyra's borders. This incredible barrier allowed the guards of Lyra to better manage incoming and outgoing traffic.

Several dozen gateways had been built into the wooden barrier, allowing both Lyran citizens and outsiders to make passage safely and legally. This way, King Alan wouldn't have to waste men on constant patrols. Instead, Prince Henry had devised a plan that required fewer men and was more effective. The downside was it had taken a vast amount of time, money, and hands to create.

But now things were finally coming together. All that was left to do was finish installing the remaining observation towers. These towers allowed Lyran watchmen to be able to see if anyone was attempting to climb illegally over the fence.

Already a decree had been made throughout the kingdom of Lyra that all citizens who wish to leave the kingdom for any amount of time must have their proof of citizenship with them. Likewise, anyone entering the kingdom must also have proof of citizenship or a certificate signed by a higher authority.

Although Henry's decree seemed harsh, he knew it was the only way he could ensure the safety of his kingdom. Without the large barrier encircling the kingdom, Nieblans would be able to breach the borderline anytime they want. Lyra could not afford to have any more spies on their lands, especially not if King Alan desperately needed the element of surprise to defeat his enemy.

"Things are coming along nicely," King Alan commented to his son.

"Thank you," Henry responded. He folded his arms across his chest and attempted to look at the construction confidently.

"I only wonder what our people will think of this."

Prince Henry felt the familiar tug of uncertainty at his father's words. "I am sure that the people of Lyra will see this decree as a way to increase their safety. I understand that this new system may make Lyrans uneasy and consume more of their time, but over all this plan is the most effective way to keep enemies out."

King Alan took a breath in as if to calm his nerves and then nodded his head and glanced over at his oldest son. "I don't doubt the security of your plan. I am only expressing my regret that my people will have a few less freedoms than they had before. My priority when I became king was to not only ensure the safety of my people but the happiness as well. I wanted Lyrans to be able to come and go freely and not be held down by the restraints of their government as they had been when my father reigned."

For once, Henry looked at his father with empathy in his eyes. After all, lately he had felt the weight of ruling a kingdom. Decisions were not easy when they effected thousands of people. "You are by far a better and more just ruler than King Nicholas ever was. Everyone in Lyra knows that. They trust you, Father."

King Alan smiled dimly at his son. "Thank you."

Henry nodded awkwardly, suddenly wanting this moment of emotion to end. He looked once more at the construction before him. When he looked back over at his father, the King was gone.

Instead, standing in his place was the Commander of the Lyran army. "I've been meaning to have a chat with you," the Commander said to Henry.

"What about?" Henry frowned.