Legacy

Chapter 6 - Sleepless Night

By the time Kane arrived at The Wild Hunt it had already become rumbustious and the sound of music could be heard through the walls. An armed guard stood nearby watching over any new arrivals. He gave a nod of recognition to Kane which he returned before entering the bar. The tavern walls had a sturdy base of grey stone work topped with a timber frame and its high beamed ceilings were filled with laughter and music. Kane could see the young prince engaged in conversation with two strangers. The men had a rough dangerous look about them and an air of animalistic cunning. The young Demus was engaged in bright animated discussions with a comely lass and Barabus the tavern keeper and former spy. While most of his attention was focused on the Demus, Barabus managed to keep a watchful eye on the young prince.

"Ahh, Master Kane. Welcome. How are you this fine evening?" Barabus greeted Kane full of life and graciousness.

"Demus Calvin, Master Barabus, it is always good to see familiar faces on such a fine evening. I see the young one has beaten me here."

"Aye, he's over in the corner enjoying a few heroic tales and drinks with Falstis's lads. I don't know if you met them – Keffa and Zolo." Barabus made a small cross with his index finger on the counter signalling a warning ignored.

"Kane, you are always the old dog. Let the boy have some fun. Here, join us for a mug of Willow's Nectar. I've just been telling Barabus some the latest news from Three Lakes. It sounds like the Greats Works project in Cold Moon arc is going to be completed a year ahead of schedule. Everyone is very excited by it. The Praxis Republic is doing a lot of good," the Demus said.

"I'll have to take your word for it. Here in the mountains such concerns seem far removed." Kane smiled taking a mug.

"Nonsense, the Praxis Architects are like the Magistar Lords from the old stories with the things they can accomplish. When I was in the City of Lights for my education, I still remember seeing a whole neighbourhood wiped out by fire. But the Praxis Architects came in with their stone mixers and black rock powered lifters and they cleared and rebuilt the whole neighbourhood in less than a month. Most amazing thing I've ever seen."

"It's not all been roses and sweet wines though,"

"Haha, still the old dog. There's a new wind blowing these days and it comes from a distant shore. Times change and this is no longer the lands of the Imperial Hunting Lodge like it was in my father's day. But don't worry, I'm predicting great things, great things."

"To the future then! I know I for one could use more business and I'm sure Kane will get used to new neighbours once he gets to know them," Barabus said.

"You're probably right, Barabus, this old dog is still young enough to learn a few new tricks." Kane nodded.

"That's what I like to hear. I wouldn't be much of a Demus if I didn't respect my people. As Caladus Thane taught me during my warding, you must be equal parts shepherd and brewer to be an effective leader for the people." Demus beamed.

"He's a wise man. His strength of character and how beloved he is by his people speaks volumes. It's probably why he survived the purge when so many other Caladuses fell to the swords of Praxis." Barabus replied.

"I remember meeting him many times long time ago. A great bear of man with a beard like a thicket." Kane commented.

"Haha, so true, although now it's more of a silver chisel then a wild bush. You know they still call his wife the crimson star of Cold Moon?" the Demus replied.

"She always made an impression on everyone she met. Caladia Laura used to make a point of never looking her best at the imperial dinners so as not to outshine the empress, but I can still remember the last time I saw her, autumn hair billowing gently in the night air, her alabaster skin, and that green dress shimmering in the moonlight." Kane reflected lost in thought.