Elyse nodded as the first dishes appeared for her approval. There were cold and warm salads, one of fresh greens, the other of beans and peppers. The meal continued with soups and stews, followed by roast fowl, suckling pig, and baked fish. Elyse forced down a bite or two of each dish. The desserts came out next, but she dismissed them before they arrived at her table, allowing others to have first choice. Instead, she nibbled on bites of fresh bread, nervous.
The meal closed with little fanfare and conversations continued over wine and cheese. As Gauge predicted, Elyse noticed that each of the dukes stirred in his seat, wondering whether or not the time was appropriate to speak with her. She had reserved the chair to her left for their discussions as Gauge suggested earlier. Jeldor, who sat farthest from Elyse made a motion to rise and she thought he would be the first to approach. However, Olasi rose just a moment after, and reached the dais before Jeldor could climb around those blocking his path. With a look of agitation, Jeldor returned to his chair and drained his wine.
Duke Olasi lived on the eastern coast of Cadonia in a city named Lucartias. Since Aurnon the First’s conquering of Cadonia, his family had a reputation of being as dedicated to the realm as the crown itself. Olasi was no exception. Despite the grumblings of dissatisfaction that plagued her father’s reign, little discord from Olasi’s province ever reached Lyrosene. He was a much older man, near eighty, which many mistook for a sign of weakness. However, Gauge told her many stories of Olasi putting men in their place thanks to a sharp wit few could match, including High Mage Amcaro himself.
Elyse was glad to see him first. His loving eyes gave her comfort and eased her nerves. A servant helped the duke struggle onto the dais. His voice rasped when he spoke, but she found it full of care, “Your Majesty, the realm weeps not only for your loss, but also for its own. As it did when your father succeeded his father, I offer all I have to you for the sake of Cadonia.”
Olasi motioned to take a knee but Elyse quickly reached out and touched his arm, steadying him. “Please my Lord, the loyalty and devotion of your family has never been in doubt. I would much rather you sit with me than kneel,” she said motioning to the empty chair to her left.
He smiled and sat with a heavy sigh. “Thank you, Your Majesty. You do an old man a great service. Please tell me what I may do for you.”
“For now, something simple, something to take my mind away from such a somber occasion. Tell me of your family. I have not seen them in some time. I did not know your children well, but I do remember playing with your granddaughter Arine, as a child.”
The old man’s eyes lit up and his smile grew wide at the mention of family. “Your Majesty has touched on a spot true and dear to my heart. Thank the One Above, my wife is alive and well, as are my children—though my oldest son, Markus, has become reckless at times I fear. However, I’m sure it is just the case of a father unable to see his son as anything but the boy he raised. My grandchildren are doing equally as well, all twelve of them. It is funny you should mention Arine, she was wed earlier this year to a fine young lord and they are expecting what will be my first great-grandchild.” Olasi lit up as he spoke of the news. “I thank the One Above each day for being so blessed.”
“That is wonderful news and brings my heart much needed warmth during this troublesome time. Please give your family my regards upon your return,” said Elyse with a smile her own.
“If I may ask Your Majesty…how well are you holding up?”
Elyse paused unsure how to answer the question and turned to Gauge for advice. He gave a slight nod, assuring her she could speak freely. “I am better each day, but to be honest, everywhere I look is a reminder of the past. My father alienated many people during the later years of his life—long before the blame could be placed on High Mage Nareash. I feel overwhelmed at times, governing a kingdom and reassuring the people of my ability to rule.”
“I understand. I have my own apprehensions, especially without a High Mage on my council any longer. I’m sure you remember your history, Your Majesty. Aurnon the First assigned High Mages to each province not only to advise, but also to deter ambition, something each ruler must be careful of. I lost many things when Rhindora passed away. A friend, an advisor, but most of all a sense of security.”
“With no one to watch over the instruction on Estul Island, I’m afraid it will be some time before we see another High Mage, let alone one for each of the six provinces.”
“Your Majesty, we need our High Mages now.” He paused. “The events that surrounded your father’s death have tipped the scales in favor of those with stronger knights and soldiers, I’m afraid. Sure there are still mages of various strengths, but none possess the awe that a red robe inspires.” He paused again. “I pray to the One Above each day for the safety of us all.”
“Do you really believe such dark times are upon us?” asked Elyse. The way he spoke made her uncomfortable and she shifted in her seat.
“Possibly, but I am not here to add to your worries, only to assure you where my loyalty lies.” Then suddenly as if the topic changed back to his family, the bright smile returned to his face. “Now if you would grant me leave, this old man could do with a good night’s sleep.”
The conversation with Duke Olasi left her unsettled but she nodded his dismissal all the same.
Does he believe there will be a rebellion? In the four hundred years since Aurnon the First conquered Cadonia, no one has made a grab for the crown. Sure, dukes and minor lords have squabbled over land, but even at their worst, things were resolved quickly. Could he mean Thurum? There is always the threat of the High Pass. But those walls have never been scaled since Aurnon the Second built them.
“Your Majesty? Unfortunately, the night is not finished and there are still others who wish to speak with you,” said Gauge, jarring her from her thoughts.
She nodded and took a sip of wine, forcing a smile. Jeldor rose from his seat again, much quicker than before, twisting and turning between guests seated around him. However, he halted when Tomalt stood abruptly, cutting Jeldor off so that he nearly tripped. Rather than acknowledging his error and offering an apology, Tomalt headed straight to the queen as if Jeldor did not exist. Jeldor’s face turned red. He returned to his seat again, all the while staring daggers at Tomalt’s back.
Duke Tomalt called the city of Bolysius his home, a place second only to Lyrosene in its grandeur. Situated along the eastern half of Cadonia, Tomalt’s province sat between the crown’s land and Olasi’s. Cadonia’s largest province benefited from the taxes that came with it. The duke had continued the legacy his father started during his lifetime, rebuilding and renovating the older buildings within Bolysius’s large double walls, turning the city into an architectural wonder. The pride Tomalt took in his home was outweighed only by his own self worth.
Tall, lean, and straight as a board, many joked behind Tomalt’s back that the duke had sat on an arrow as a boy, causing his unusually stiff stride. His face held sharp features, dominated by a large nose. He wore the finest clothing though none would call it gaudy.
He makes even me feel like a pauper.
He strode to the queen with a confidence one could not help but be intimidated by. He came to an abrupt stop, clicking his heels and bowing in half at the waist. “Your Majesty, I would be most pleased if you would allow me to join you for a few moments.” He spoke in a strong monotone, and waited for an answer with his hands at his sides. Head held high, not once did he meet the queen’s eyes.
Elyse responded with a kindness the duke lacked. “Duke Tomalt, I would be honored if you would join me,” she said gesturing to the now empty seat.
He sat down while straightening the creases in his clothes and, once satisfied with his appearance, began. “Thank you. My condolences for your loss, your father’s death was a pity,” said Tomalt without emotion.
“It was a pity. Though I think of it more grievous than that,” said Elyse, upset by the lack of sincerity.
“Yes, of course. However, with such a sudden shift in rule, I would like to offer you my services, if I may, and assist you during your reign.”
“I appreciate your generosity, Duke Tomalt.”
“You see, Your Majesty, as a woman, I know that you were not raised with a proper education in military strategy. Therefore, it is very important for you to feel confident in the commander of your forces. I feel that placing a strong presence, such as myself, in the role would add a certain strength and authority that, to be honest, grew lax during your father’s reign. I’m sure you would agree.”
Elyse was surprised by the suggestion but if it showed on her face, Tomalt ignored the reaction. “Such a thing would be impossible. General Grayer holds the position,” she said. “Would you consider…”
“I would not consider anything else, Your Majesty. Moreover I must disagree—the situation is not impossible. Simply excuse the man of his duties. He has served long enough and I believe it is time someone more competent took over the role.”
“I’m afraid I will have to decline your offer. As I said, General Grayer is our army’s commander.”
His brow furrowed and he finally met her eyes, the most emotion he had shown since sitting down. A lump formed in Elyse’s throat and her hands began to sweat.
It’s like I am nothing to him.
“And this folly is something I cannot persuade the queen to change her mind on, is it?”
Thankfully, Gauge spoke on her behalf as she struggled to find her voice again. “The queen is most certain of General Grayer’s capabilities.”
“I see. A mistake you may one day regret.” Tomalt rose suddenly, clicking his heels together and bowing again in a quick, fluid motion. “Very well. If it pleases Your Majesty, I have other duties to attend to.” He stood motionless, waiting for a response.
Tomalt’s abruptness took her off guard once again, but she still managed a nod. Before she could offer a parting word, the duke pivoted on his heels, striding away as rigid as before.
Elyse leaned over. “Why would he ask such a thing? Surely he would know my answer.”
“Your Majesty, control of our military, along with his resources, would have made him the most powerful man in the kingdom. I think he assumed you naïve to such a thing. But you proved him wrong.”
One Above, I am naïve to such things. My decision had nothing to do with preventing him from coming into such power.
Gauge continued, “Tomalt was never a man who knew the finer points of conversation. If he had more talent with words, maybe he could have enticed you into making a poor decision. Still, you made the right choice.” He inclined his head. “I believe Duke Jeldor is about to approach you once again, Your Highness.”
True enough, Duke Jeldor of Ithanthul jumped from his seat, moving toward the dais in a rush, pushing and shoving guests and servants alike out of his path. The stout man was passing a table when Duke Bronn pushed his chair out, knocking Jeldor into a servant carrying empty plates. They both tumbled to the floor in a clatter of noise. A sudden, but brief, silence fell over the hall that ended with the sound of Bronn chuckling. Soon others joined in and laughter filled the expansive room. Bronn helped Jeldor to his feet and made a show of dusting him off before Jeldor pushed him away, face contorted in anger. The laughter died as Bronn sat down and took a sip of wine, waving Duke Jeldor ahead of him in a condescending manner. Jeldor was not happy about the gesture but he continued his approach nonetheless, more careful than before.
The redness in his face subsided as he reached the queen, though his displeasure was still obvious. He wore plainer clothes than the other nobles, thick wool in place of silk, and the color mostly brown with touches of gray.
His house was not a rich one, despite having control of the iron mines of Arcas Island. His family rarely attended court as well, choosing to remain isolated in their dreary lands in the northwest portion of Cadonia.
The duke’s long beard and bushy brown hair appeared tussled from the fall. Sweat glistened on his forehead. He looked out of place among the other lords and ladies in the hall.
He stopped before the queen with a huff and a slight bow. “Your Majesty.”
“Duke Jeldor, are you alright from your spill?” asked Elyse, concern in her voice.
He seemed only to grow more agitated. “I am fine, no thanks to that arrogant twit. Though he wasn’t the first, now was he? Each of them made it a point to disrespect me in some manner, only Bronn was the most open about it.”
“My Lord, I’m sure there is a misunderstanding and no ill was meant.”
“Whether intentional or not is beside the point. My family has been looked on as the stepchild of Cadonia ever since Aurnon the First conquered this land. After hundreds of years, that has not changed. I also see that your feelings are no different, having placed my house farthest from your table. Now I remember why I seldom attend such events.” He remembered himself for a moment and bowed. “I am sorry for your loss, Your Majesty.”
“Thank you, my lord. Won’t you please sit for a while? Maybe we can speak on some of your concerns.”
“My only concern is whether you will finally reduce the taxes instituted by Aurnon the Third on my lands,” said Jeldor, still standing.
Gauge cleared his throat. “My Lord, those taxes were put in place as punishment for your family’s transgressions.”
“Transgressions that occurred hundreds of years ago. Must I suffer for my ancestor’s mistake?”
“Aurnon the Third was very specific that the taxes should not be lifted.”
Jeldor looked to the queen. “And how does Your Majesty feel about this?”
Elyse swallowed. She had no clue about the transgressions Jeldor and Gauge spoke of.
Jeldor grunted. “I’ll take it by your silence that you feel the same then.”
Elyse found her voice. “Perhaps we can discuss something else, My Lord.”
“No. Next time I hope we can discuss matters under better terms. Perhaps even my own.” He muttered the last part under his breath, but then remembered himself again. “By your leave, I would return to my holdfast.”