Darkspur

Chapter 27 - Final Preparations

"They're two days out," Keria reported to Caden. "Our Outriders came across a small advanced party yesterday; they were quickly dealt with but the main force isn't far behind."

"How many?" he asked.

"A thousand men, maybe more," she replied. "But, no more than we originally thought."

"And everything is in place?" Caden asked, looking at Ordwin.

"We're ready," the large man replied, shrugging. "Don't think there's much more we can do."

"Ok, then start moving the people into the Keep and Harbour Ward, we don't want a frantic stampede when the Darnach arrive on the Plain. Close the Sea Gates, make it known that any vessel still inside in the next six hours isn't going anywhere, and send out the spotters, I want those Dark Summoners dealt with as soon as they show face," he turned to Keria. "Any news from Hanian?"

She shook her head.

"Well, you know what we have to do," he looked around the table. "And you Egrinlast, are your men ready?"

"They are ready, Caden," the elf said, "but I will not be leading them. Orophin, I wish you to command the men."

The shock on Orophin's face was apparent. "But sire, I'm not ready, I don't have the experience. Why would you give me this honour?"

"Orophin, you are more than capable of this, you have trained all your life for an opportunity to lead and now the time has come to show your skill. Who organised the men for this battle, who planned the tactics for the defence of the wall, it wasn't me. You must have realised I was letting you take control, you're not stupid," Egrinlast said.

"I am humbled, Sire," Orophin said graciously, bowing.

"I've seen enough killing in my life, I'm tired of it all and have come to realise, I need a change," Egrinlast continued. "So, next week, when this is over, I will return to Idril Séregon and we shall start looking for a new King."

The room was silent. Orophin stood, mouth gaping and Keria was sure his face turned an even whiter shade than it's normal pallid complexion.

"But, but, you can't," he stammered. "You have no heir, who will be King?"

"Won't be my problem, that will be for the council elders to debate," Egrinlast said. "It's not unheard of Orophin, it's happened many times before."

"I have to say, Egi," Caden said. "Retirement sounds pretty good to me to, right at this moment."

"Hey," Keria said, pointing at her King. "Don't even think about it. I have no intention of becoming a queen in Moryen's absence. So you can put that out of you head right now."

Orophin slumped on to one of the heavy oak seats.

"I think someone needs a drink," Ordwin said, nodding towards the elf.

"That's your solution to everything, isn't it?" Keria said, scowling.

Ordwin looked puzzled. "Is there another option?"

-o-

A double bell sounded telling all in the Harbour they had only two hours left to set sail or be trapped behind the gates. In truth the quay had been nearly deserted for days, only a very few ships remaining at berth and these didn't appear to be going anywhere. The fishing fleet mostly remained, the small boat's owners were all citizens of the city and were not about to flee, partly through sense of duty but also not wanting to appear cowardly to their friends and colleagues.

Arkus had gathered his men on the deck of the Auburn Princess, a ragtag assortment from every part of the world. It wasn't a large crew, only eighteen men, but they had never let their captain down, always doing what was necessary even in the face of great danger. He could honestly say he was proud of every one of them. Arkus jumped up on to the guard rail, steadying himself on the rigging, to give himself a better view.