Engines & Demons - The Undestined

Chapter 19ii

Grifford leapt down the terrace's steps, the scabbard of the training sword slapping at his leg. The downward chain-carriage journey had given enough respite for him to catch his breath after his run to the barrack blocks, but he was soon breathing quickly again as he raced back through the Enclosures. When he reached the Infirmary, he found his father already stationed in front of the main entry, his rail-shield on his arm and sword held loose by his side. He had set his helm on the ground beside him.

Grifford came to a halt. He inclined his head swiftly.

"Father, I..."

"Did you get consent to carry that sword from the fortress?"

"No, father. I did not have time. I wish to stand vigil with you."

"And so you disregarded barrack rules. Did you even think of asking for my approval before coming here?"

"No. I thought it would please you."

His father regarded him for a short while, then moved to one side of the doorway.

"Stand there," he said, pointing with his sword to the ground at the opposite side of the door.

Grifford did as he was bidden.

They stood together in silence.

"Sir?" said Grifford, after the quiet has stretched on for a short time.

"Yes?"

"How is mother?"

"Doctor Fos assures me that she is in good health."

The silence continued. In the herb garden, the bugs clicked and chittered.

"You understand that this will be no easy thing," said his father. "You are not required to be here."

"I want to be here, father. It is important."

Somewhere within the Enclosures, a madriel roared in defiance, and a Madriel-master roared back in response.

"Doctor Fos tells me that our vigil may only be short. You and your sister's was an ordeal of nearly ten hours. Of course, I was a younger man then."

From the corner of his eye, Grifford saw his father glance over at him.

"I will be fine, father."

"You have great confidence."

"Yes."

Grifford stood stock still, his chin raised and his eyes focused on the Infirmary gate at the far end of the herb garden.

He did not see his father smile.

"Tell me about your madriel training," his father said. "I hear it is not progressing too well?"

"I do not like the way Master Chen teaches. Will you not ask Master Sprak to assign a more capable Master?"

"Master Chen has been chosen by Sprak, and he is the Master you will be taught by."

Silence again. Grifford thought he heard a low cry from over the Infirmary wall behind him.

"Why do you think you are struggling with your steed's training?"

"I do not know."

"Master Chen tells me you are having trouble because your animal does not have a high regard for you."

"So?"

"You must earn your animal's respect, and he yours. Has Master Chen not told you this?"

"Yes, but..."