The Vlakan King (Book 3)

The Vlakan King (Book 3) by Jim Greenfield Read Free Book Online Page B

Book: The Vlakan King (Book 3) by Jim Greenfield Read Free Book Online
Authors: Jim Greenfield
draw upon their magic without a rest. It has never been a priority to test their strength."
    "Still it will be a tremendous help for the soldiers to know the mages are with them. It should give the Mordynians pause when we meet in battle."
    Artus nodded.
    "If I may take leave of you, your Highness, I must get started."
    "Of course, Artus. Whatever resources you need, just ask."
    Artus bowed and departed. Aulan entered shortly after.
    "May I come in?" asked the Rose Bishop.
    "Yes, Aulan. We must speak of what the Rose Brotherhood will do for the High King."
    Armana knew Aulan was keen on gathering as much power and influence for the Rose Brotherhood as he could but did he have other goals? Where would Aulan draw the line? Would being the top advisor to the High King be enough? While some of Aulan's motives were clear the man was still holding back from the High King. Armana could not read all of Aulan's intentions and it frustrated him. He prided himself on being the judge of a man's character and in Artus' case, Armana felt sure he had the measure of Artus. On the other hand, Aulan shielded parts of himself and the High King could only guess what went on behind those blue eyes of the Rose Bishop.
    "Your Highness, all of my information gathering resources are at your disposal. I have Rose Knights available for your security."
    "Will they ride with me to war?"
    "To war?"
    "Yes. Do you think I will remain safely in my castle while my subjects are in peril?"
    "No, your majesty. You will be leading your troops. My knight will remain by your side no matter where you go."
    "Excellent that pleases me. Baer Patros will lead the defense of Nantitet and Nar Tomak will command the army. What would you wish to command, Aulan?"
    Armana did not look directly at the High Bishop but he watched him all the same. Aulan rubbed his chin.
    "I believe I could be useful organizing the food and water. Your quartermaster will be with the army and he could instruct me on the best methods. I still have a number of knights and servants to aid in the gathering and distribution."
    "Well, that sounds very helpful, Aulan. Thank you. I will include that in our plans. We will meet tomorrow for the final planning. By next week we should be have the gates closed and carefully check anyone wishing to enter the city."
    "Close the city? Is it that serious already? We don't know that Mordyn is planning anything for sure. Would they send spies so far in advance?"
    "There are already spies in the city, Aulan. We must make sure armed Mordynian soldiers do not find refuge within the walls. A spy or two can cause a lot of trouble, but a squad of soldiers can overpower guards and open our gates to the enemy. I would rather be over vigilant and be cursed for it than watch my city fall."
    "Wise as always, High King. I will have a full accounting of my knights and recommend those to be your personal guard."
    "Very good, Aulan. We shall meet at breakfast tomorrow."
    "Until tomorrow your Highness, may Cothos watch over you."
    When the doors closed behind the Rose Bishop, Armana sat in his chair and picked up a piece of jerky. He gnawed on it as he planned the defense of his realm.

Chapter 5
     
    The Greyrawk family held estates in Cresida on the Amloth continent for generations. There were rumors that they were friendly to the Celaeri living in the area and even darker rumors of Celaeri blood running in the veins of the Greyrawk's. This proved to be a fact: Loric Greyrawk, one of the captains of the Talos Company, half Celaeri and half Men, had a life span of many thousand years escaping the brief life of Men.
    From Gerrand's Histories of Landermass
     
     
    The headaches were worse, he was certain, and they lingered on after the nightmares faded. The pain sliced right behind his right eye. He paused and leaned against the wagon, unable to focus with the throbbing. That big lunch may have been a mistake.
    "Ian, are you all right?" asked Ferran. The trader was short and broad

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