Valadel

Chapter XXXI

The crowd had gathered by the bay in a unanimous silence. No one said a word, and no one wanted too. The city guard was there, looking stout with their weapons rested on their shoulders. Queen Victoria stood waiting for her husband to finish speaking with his advisor. Finally, after some hushed words, Joras sent him and took his place in front of the crowd.

"People of Jorden." Said Joras as he started is speech. "As you all know...two days ago, a castle had come from the ocean to the surface. It was with benevolent intentions that I sent an expeditionary team to uncover it's origins. It is with a hurting heart that I tell you of their demise. Unfortunately, each member, save for one, had perished within the keep."

The statement brought a gentle murmuring from the crowd. Joras let the hushed conversations die down before continuing.

"To honor those who lost their lives, a memorial will be built in this location, overlooking the bay. The families of the expeditionaries will be compensated for their losses of their loved ones." He paused a moment to regain his composure. "Any attempt by any citizen to journey to the castle, is considered a criminal offense and punishable by death. Navy guards will be stationed to enforce the law. Thank you, citizens. Please retire to your houses and continue the rest of your day." Said Joras as he concluded his address to the people. The crowd went ablaze with questions and theories. They called out for answers, none to which Joras or any of his advisors would answer. He ducked into is carriage alongside his wife and rode off to Castle Elderstone surrounded by his guard.

Siegfried rested solemnly against the wall of a tavern. The king's speech had been concluded. It was a good one, he thought to himself. The townspeople had disassembled, returning to their daily routines. He swatted at a fly buzzing around him as a woman approached him. Her scarlet hair fell on her shoulders as the rest draped down her back. Her piercing blue eyes were studying Siegfried as she got closer and closer to the ranger. She wore a dress of deep emerald green silk and fine leather. Siegfried stood straight as his interest had been caught in the net of her intrigue. He silently cleared his throat and put on his best 'mysterious stranger' face.

"May I help you?" He asked the beautiful woman as she stood in front of him.

"Sir Whitelocke...the pleasure is all mine." She said, holding out her hand.

Siegfried stared at her waiting hand. He took it in his and gave her the kiss she expected.

"Word has spread around you're the sole survivor of the expedition. Some may call you a hero."

Siegfried smiled at her. "Some may be right. Although, the true heroes are those warriors who perished. I would never had made it if it weren't for their actions."

"I imagine," she said. "It is a shame they couldn't have returned as heroes with you."

"Indeed it is," said Siegfried. Nearly all of his focus had been placed on forgetting his actions at the castle.

"My family is having a party tomorrow. We would love for your attendance as our guest of honor." She handed him an invitation she took from her small purse. Siegfried examined the piece of parchment.

Sir Whitelocke,

Your are requested by Lord Canton Perrelister, Patron of the Perrelister family, to attend a party honoring the expedition members and celebrate their lives as a guest of honor. You are allowed one guest to accompany you. The party will commence at seven o clock one moon from now. See you then.

"Hmm...and who should I bring with me as my guest?" Siegfried asked.

"That decision is yours, Mister Whitelocke."