Much glad. :-)

Anemone

The chill in the room was not conquered by the fire which burned at the other end of the room. Rather, the bright light and vibrant heat that could be felt while standing near the blaze accentuated the cold I felt. My hands and fingers were numb, and the ink flowed sluggishly off my quill as I scratched out various replies to the letters the ambassador had carried from my cousin and his family. My words were stunted and formal. Although I had struck up a friendship with my cousin's wife and family while they were visiting two years ago, so much had happened in my life since then that I could not bring myself to the normal, newsy outflowing with which they had graced me. Instead, I answered their inquiries, commented on the state of the country vaguely, and tried to think of details to inquire about from their own letters. Little or nothing of my current feelings and situation went into those missives. By the time they received these letters, the winter would be in full force, Aram would be high up on a precipice hunting the dragon, and I would need to be diligently considering a husband. None of those except the encroaching winter were items I could or wanted to discuss long-distance, and so they simply were not mentioned.

The ambassadorial merchants and their companions were housed in another wing of the castle, where there was a large common room similar to the one I was in. They were probably talking, playing games, and enjoying the night of frivolity. I spent a vain moment longing to be among them as a shadow, able to participate invisibly in their warmth. An ache in my cold hand reminded me of my own work, and I bent back to the letters.

Anise entered the room with her embroidery a few moments later, and sat in a chair nearer the fire, tucking her feet up and bending close to the fabric in the light of the lamp she had set near her elbow. It was too dark for letter writing or embroidery, in all honesty, and yet we continued to work at our tasks until I had finished. The merchant would be heading back in a couple of days, and I did not want to put the composition off until the last minute. Sealing the last envelope, and tying the bundle with a ribbon, I set it aside to be delivered in the morning. Anise glanced at me as I came to sit on the deep rug before the fire, holding my stiff hands towards the heat.

“Why do you sit all the way over there? You know it's not good for you to get so chilled.”

“I'm afraid that if I sat any closer, I'd fall asleep in the warmth. Besides, to get as close as I wanted to, my pages would burst into flame. So there was no point in moving the table, to be cold nearer the fire.”

She chuckled at me. “Well, bring a shawl or something. You're turning blue. Would you like to move to the smaller parlor, or the candle room? Those would be warmer.”

“No. I'm going to head to bed soon. I don't want to build a fire in another room for a mere ten minutes. It would barely warm before I was done with it.” I pulled a fur from the arm of the chair next to Anise's. “You know I like to sit on the floor, anyway.”

“Mmhmm.” She had her needle in her mouth, while she worked at a small knot which had magically appeared in her thread. “Oh, dear, I think I'm going to have to redo this whole section – the light in here is really terrible.”

“And yet you keep trying,” I teased her. “Seems we never learn.”

Setting the frame aside, she grinned at me. “Of course not. What would be the fun in that?”

I looked at her somewhat speculatively, and she saw my observance and waited for me to speak whatever was on my mind.

“Anise,” I began slowly, “who would you send with Aram? I know he will want to leave within the week – he does not seem the type of person to sit around and do nothing.”

“Yes, I agree with you. I've given it some consideration, but I'm not sure who I'd send. Your most trustworthy advisors would never survive the cold trip; you could send some guards or soldiers, but they do not know your mind. Useful to him, but perhaps not to us.”

“I know. I ran into a couple of guards when I was fetching something from the dining room this evening – they were chatting and eating the pastries and drinking the leftover wine. Rather amusing, but hardly encouraging as to their intelligence.”

Anise was entertained with the thought. “Did you catch their names?”

“Lucius and Thorold, I believe. They are commonly attending in the dining room, to save me if one of the guests attempts to kill me with a carving knife, I expect.”

“Ah, I know whom you mean. Actually Lucius is a friend of my brother. Thorold has a reputation of being a stick in the mud among the guards, I believe, but Lucius is a scamp. They used to run wild at my family manor, teasing all of the servants and continually underfoot with the cook.” She laughed. “My brother would tease Lucius so much if he found that he was a dinner guard. They both had such high-flown dreams of glory and grandeur.”

“Did you know Lucius well?”

“No, not particularly. He and my brother began their wild ways before I was old enough to join in, and then when I came to live with you they were both in training. This is my older brother, you understand – we were never extraordinarily close, although we've always written letters back and forth. He went as a squire to another manor by the time I turned 10 years old.” She was staring at the fire, looking a tad hypnotized. “Anyway, I know Lucius some, but not well.”

I pulled the parchment I had brought from the dining room out of a skirt pocket, and extended it to her. “This is what I was given by the Ambassador at dinner. Very discreetly, and if I had not forgotten it in the cushions, I should not have seen Lucius and Thorold at all.”

With a questioning glance at me, she unfolded the paper and quickly read through it, turning it towards the lamp for the most possible light. Her eyes widened as she took in the gist of the note. “This is interesting. Very interesting.”

“I know. What do you think about it.”

She slowly refolded the letter and handed it back to me, then leaned back in the chair, looking at me seriously. “I'm not sure. It looks -- well, it could be an excellent idea. But it is up to you. You will have to consider it carefully.”

“Yes, I know.” I pressed my hands to my temples, hoping that I was not going to regret the letter writing in the dark, coupled with the stress this note had imposed as soon as I had seen it.

“What I think, my dear,” Anise gently informed me, “is that you should go to bed. We can talk about this more in the morning. Things are always bleaker when you're tired.”

“Right as always, Anise.” I sighed, and stood. “Very well.” She stood and also began collecting her embroidery and lamp. “Anise, before you go -- I would like to ask you something.”

She seemed slightly surprised. “Of course. What is it?”

“Would you go with Aram?”

I saw her bite the inside of her mouth, and hastily continued. “You don't have to answer right now, and there's no pressure. Of course, I would not want you to go alone – I would send two or three guards with you and he. But I cannot think of anyone I would rather trust this to. I will find another if I need to, but I would like you to sleep on it. Please, give me your honest answer tomorrow.”

She curtsied. “Yes, your majesty.” For a moment I was afraid that she was angry, or hurt. Then she straightened and smiled at me. “I admit, I'm surprised at the request. But I will think about it, and let you know.” She kissed me, and bidding me goodnight, left the room.

I stood a moment longer, gazing into the fire. Strange how the flames could attract and keep someone's attention, as though you were a small cat, entranced by the movement and the hopelessness of trying to catch a flame midair. Then I self-consciously shook the mood off, and left for my own room. It was going to be a cold night.

O.o a lot more. I can't read right now :( but soon I will.

Anise was in the parlor, composing some letter or other. I prevailed upon her to leave the work for a time and go for a ride with me. It would be light for a couple of hours yet, but then the day would be over.

After changing into some warm clothing, I went to the stable to select two horses for us, and Anise went to inform the personal guard that I was leaving the castle. She returned accompanied by none other than Lucius and Thorold, the pair which I had found indolent in the dining hall the previous evening. I quirked an eyebrow at the two of them, marching rather stiffly behind Anise as she came out in her split skirt and riding jacket. The two guards quickly prepared their own horses, as Anise and I mounted with the assistance of the stable boy.

We left the castle gate at a deceptively sedate pace, walking the horses down the road towards the town. There was no wind, and the afternoon sun had warmed the day to a slight chill. Immediately before reaching the main street, we turned off onto another lane which led back around and behind the castle proper, into the mountain and hunting trails. Anise was beside me, while one guard rode several yards ahead and the other several behind. We entered the forest after half an hour on a winding trail which was covered with fallen leaves.

We rode silently, for my part enjoying the scent of the forest and the snuffling companionship of the horses. They were slightly spirited, alert and ready to run with the slightest direction from a rider. We continued up along the sinuous path. The small river which fed the moat descended down a canyon from the west, chilly and cascading with the downward impetus. We emerged from the trees onto the plateau which that canyon cut through, high above the castle and village. The stream sparked far below us. There were no trees on this plateau, whether from height or lack of water I could not be sure. However it was, this stretched far and wide and smooth, three or more miles of straight, steady plain before it became again broken with canyons and trees. Suddenly urging my horse, I swept around and past Thorold, who was in the front, and released my impatient steed to pound towards the far side of the plain. He leapt willingly into the race against the wind, and I crouched low and close as my Aunt Priscilla had taught me. It was not surprising that she had won many a horse race in earlier years – her rapport with the equine species was legendary among horse merchants and racers. I heard Anise urging her mount on with a piercing yodel, and knew that the startled guards were being left far behind, unaccustomed to the sudden races in which we loved to indulge. The two riders who normally came on our rides must have been unavailable for some reason – they would have been ready for anything as soon as we broached the flat space.

The wind pierced my clothing and disarranged the scarf which I had tied over my head, but I did not care to feel the cold, adrenaline and excitement causing me to feel warmth and speed as though they rushed through my veins, accompanying the cold oxygen, several degrees below the valley we had left. As we neared the drop off at the other end of the plateau, I slowly reined in the horse and pulled him into a turn. We raced along the cliff edge to the left, and I glanced sideways to see Thorold and Lucius a mile behind, riding low and fast, Anise only a few hundred yards behind me and beginning to gain. Her form would feel as light as gossamer to the racer she was on, and she knew as well as I how to garner the most speed. But these horses needed little if any urging, and were as ready as we were to fly along the ground. I made another turn a couple of minutes later, at the next broken ground, and again encouraged my mount to speed back to our starting point. As we reached it, I pulled him up, and he reared and whinnied, pawing the ground with impatience to run again.

I walked until Anise caught up, then let him move into a canter, still eating up the ground, but not with the tear-inducing speed we had earlier attained. Lucius and Thorold were still a ways behind us – their horses were bred for stamina, not speed; for fighting, not racing along the ground like jackrabbits. Anise and I moved side by side, matching our paces and headed back to the first canyon and most dangerous turn. Reaching that, we finally broke back to a walk. There was no talking when moving so quickly, but now our horses had spent their bursts of energy and were content to finish the turn at a walk.

We regained the main path as twilight fell, and the sun took the temporary warmth of the day with it as it disappeared behind the mountains. Anise rode beside Lucius, and began a conversation with him. I heard a snatch of conversation mentioning her brother's name. Thorold rode beside me, and I took the opportunity to find out a bit more about him. Lucius was slightly older than Anise and I, still under thirty years of age, but Thorold had been in my service as a soldier for several years before beginning the position among the guards. He was compact, muscular, and had a weathered and lined face. I faintly recalled a story I had once heard about him from the General – in a skirmish with some bandits on the road, he had been overpowered and captured, only to reappear several days later at an outpost, with several severe wounds and a train of horses carrying the bandits' entire stash of loot. His report on the bandits had been quite simple: they were dead, and would no longer trouble merchants along that route.

“How long have you been a soldier, Thorold?”

If he was surprised by my question, he didn't show it. Taciturn and apparently rather shy, he responded shortly. “Fifteen years, your Majesty.”

“Have you any family?” I knew he lived in the castle barracks with the rest of the guards – my personal guards were chosen from men who had no wives or dependent children, the General having decided that those were the most trustworthy and single-minded in the case of an emergency.

He shifted uncomfortably, and I wondered whether that had been an unfortunate question. “My wife was killed in the plague – we had no children. I have a sister who is married and lives on a farm to the south.”

“I'm sorry to hear that,” I responded. “I have heard stories of your ability as a soldier. I'm glad to have you in my service.”

“Thank you, your Majesty.” This wasn't getting me anywhere, and I wracked my brain for something to say.

“Do you fence, Thorold?”

“Yes, your Majesty.”

“I am in need of a fencing instructor – do you know of anyone you would recommend to me?”

He considered the question seriously. “I cannot recommend myself, your Majesty, because my methods are inconsistent and suited rather to brawling than to skill and expertise. However, I believe you have another guard in your corps who would be able to teach you competently. Lucius has had training from a Southern master, and he is a formidable opponent to the best of us.”

“Lucius? Tell me, what is Lucius's surname? I cannot recall it.”

“Brees, your Majesty.”

I pursed my lips thoughtfully. “Supposing, Thorold, that Lucius Brees was unavailable to me – is there another you would recommend.”

His expressions were difficult to read, but I think he narrowed his eyes at this bit of almost-information. “If Lucius were unavailable, your Majesty, then I would have to commend you to the General. He is undoubtedly a master swordsman himself, although not a fencer, to my knowledge. Surely he would know who among your servants could best convey such knowledge.”

The answer was safe, but hardly what I wanted. Perhaps sensing my disappointment, Thorold continued. “If I were to venture a guess, your Majesty, I would recommend Arius Chamberlin. He is well-versed in many types of combat, and has had many practice rounds with Lucius in the guardhouse.”

“Thank you, Thorold.”

When I sat down at my desk to write the necessary traveling passes, the note from the ambassador again caught my eye. I opened it, and reread the rather short missive. Feeling the stress raising its ugly head again, I sat back and closed my eyes. There was no putting off an answer. The merchant would have to carry back my response when he left shortly, and my answer was predictable. I drew a clean sheet of paper from a drawer and wrote a response. I signed my name at the bottom and folded and sealed the missive before I could change my mind. I placed it among the other letters I had answered the night before, and took the bundle in hand to deliver personally. Knocking on the merchant's door, I handed the bundle to the clerk who had dined with us. He accepted the package, and I returned to my desk, finishing the required passes quickly. The General, at my request, appeared before me as I was finishing the final pass.

He rapped lightly on the door, then entered, standing to attention before me. “At ease,” I remarked, knowing that he would stand there as long as it took to prompt me into the correct action. “Good evening, General. I need to speak with you.”

“How may I assist you, your Majesty?”

“You have met Ar – Aaron, the young man who wishes to hunt the dragon?”

“I have.”

“Anise has agreed to go with him, so long as I send Thorold Klinte and Lucius Brees as well. They will be gone for as long as Aaron is gone, they will travel and fight with him, and they must be prepared to uphold Anise as my direct representative. This journey will be above and beyond the call of duty, so they of course must be given the option to volunteer or refuse the mission.”

“I am sure they will see their way to voluntarily participating, your Majesty.”

I laughed. “General, I am honestly looking for volunteers.”

If a rock could have looked hurt, it would have looked like the General at that moment. “I'm sure, your Majesty, that there has never been any question of propriety in the management of my men.”

“Pshaw, General, I am not casting aspersions on you. I rely on your abilities implicitly, and you know that.”

“Yes, your Majesty,” he allowed.

“If you will report to me first thing in the morning, I would appreciate it. I believe they will need to leave early on Tuesday morning.”

“Yes, your Majesty.” He bowed, and I stood as he exited the room.

“Come in,” I called several minutes later, as another knock sounded at the door. Aram came in and stood before my desk. I rose, and beckoned him over to the fireplace where the two overstuffed chairs sat reflecting the chancy light. “Sit down, I'd like to talk to you.”

He sat, a bit uncomfortably on account of the ever-present sword. “Yes, your Majesty?”

“I'd like to talk to you about the trip you're about to take,” I said matter-of-factly. “I would like to send three people with you. I am also prepared to provide food, equipment, and any necessary pack animals for the trip. I believe you have spoken with Anise today about what your plans are? Please give me an idea of what your strategy is.”

“Yes, your Majesty. I will take the Western road as soon as possible – I had hoped to leave tomorrow, but Anise told me that could not happen – then I will find information regarding sightings of the dragon, and climb up to his nest. Finding him there, I shall slay him. Then, bringing back whatever token of completion you require, I shall return and my vow will be fulfilled.”

“I see.” I contemplated my hands for a moment. “How much time are you allotting for this simple plan?”

“Four months. If it takes longer than that, I will retreat to a local village, restock my supplies, and continue from where I had left off.”

“Very well. Come to me in the morning with a list of all you require. I shall do all in my power to allow you to leave on Tuesday morning. I will also let you know who will be traveling with you in the morning.”

I rose, and extended my hand to him. “Thank you, Aram. I will see you tomorrow.”

He took my hand, and bowed over it. “Thank you, your Majesty. Good evening.”

I awoke before the sun rose the next morning, and although there was a fire in my grate, it had not yet taken the chill from the room. I dressed quickly, my fingers numbing even as I pulled a heavy woolen frock over my head and stockings onto my legs. A girl came in with porridge for my breakfast, and also braided my hair for the day. I ate quickly after she left, and as my morning routine came to a close, walked the short way to my office.

There was a note on my desk from the General, assuring me of Lucius and Thorold's eager compliance to my request for their assistance. I smiled, and sent him notice that they should be ready to depart early the next morning, and were therefore excused from any other duties for the day.

I wrote the necessary letters notifying villages of the bad harvest in one quarter of the kingdom, and requesting that they send what aid they could reasonably spare. The messengers had stayed the weekend in town and were leaving this morning to return to their various provinces. I advised the town which had had the bad harvest that I had received the word they sent, but advised that they use their resources wisely to lessen the impact upon their people and livestock, so as to have a fresh start the next year. All of which they doubtless already knew, but were nonetheless expecting to hear from me personally. I also gave the prospective dates of my spring visit to each village, which would begin as soon as the spring mud dried and left the roads passable for a larger entourage.

As the morning drew to a close, and I began to seriously consider lunch, a page brought me a supply list from Aram, detailing what he would need for his journey. It was not a long list, which pleased me. Every consideration of weight and bulk had been taken, and what was left would be easy to transport and useful. There was a note included with the list, which informed me that he had left an allowance of space for Anise, as he did not feel qualified to determine what she would need, aside from the common supplies of food and warm clothing. After glancing over the lists, I told the page to find Anise and Aram and ask them to join me for lunch in the kitchen.

A simple soup with biscuits was awaiting when I arrived in the kitchen at noon, and Anise and Aram entered behind me. We sat down, grateful for the warm food, and I told them of Lucius and Thorold's acquiescence. Anise dipped her head down to taste the soup. “I expected nothing less from them,” she commented. “Lucius, for sure. All his life he's wanted to go on a quest. We're just fulfilling his deepest dream,” she laughed.

I acknowledged her reference to Lucius and her brother's childhood games with a smile. “Also, Aram, I do not see any difficulties with your list. Anise and I will arrange the supplies through the guardhouse and the local merchants. We should have everything by this evening, and I will seek out a few sturdy ponies to carry the supplies.”

Aram counted on his fingers, “A horse for each of us, then – if we can keep the clothing down to a minimum, and each carry that on his own steed, we should be able to get along with two ponies.” He glanced at Anise. “My lady, how much weight are you going to need on a supply pony?”

“Call me Anise,” she replied. “I think I shall be able to fit most items on my horse – he will not need to be able to fight, like yours will. Run, perhaps, but not fight. I shall pack quite lightly, and will only need space for some writing materials, to post reports on our progress. Please, do not concern yourself overmuch with my needs. We shall have enough trouble keeping warm and fed.”

A faint relief was discernible in Aram's eyes. “Very well, Anise.”

“She is an experienced campaigner,” I assured him, “and accompanied my family and I during the trip we took to the North. The stories I've heard are mostly accurate, at least so far as concerns our having to flee by night and cross the mountains with only a small contingent of guards.”

Anise grimaced. “Not some of my fondest childhood memories. I daresay Aram will have us better prepared for this trip.”

“After the rush of getting the two of you off, I fear I shall have a quiet winter. I won't know what to do with myself, I'm sure.”

“No melancholy,” Anise scolded. “I know perfectly well that there are always more responsibilities and duties than can be accomplished.”

Finishing my second roll, I made a face at her. “Oh thou wise one,” I jibed, “without thee I shall not know what to do.”

I had a proposition ready for the merchant council when they presented themselves in the throne room, which had been changed to a council room by the simple measure of placing a huge table on trestles down the length of the hall. Sir Horace was there, as well as several other prosperous merchants from the town and a few from surrounding towns. The ambassadorial visit and proposal had not been a surprise – this issue had been on the table, so to speak, for at least three years. However, the merchant council had yet to find a plan which could be agreed upon by the necessary number of members. No action had yet been taken on the issue.

When I was recognized by the chairman, I rose and informed the council of the proposals set forth by the Southern ambassador. “My cousin, the King, has been authorized by the parliament to offer this kingdom a contribution of three thousand gold coins, to be put towards the construction of this pass. He has also given me his personal guarantee that the roads on their side of the mountains leading to these passes will remain open and available for all use.

“I have heard the objections raised regarding this pass – the alteration of our interior economy is a valid consideration. Also, you have probably heard, my General and advisors have cautioned me. To create such an easy passage could be to our detriment, should relations between the two kingdoms grow strained. The amount of travel which is predicted to use a road would require a broad, strong road, which would, I must agree, greatly facilitate troop movement in the case of war.”

A murmur of agreement came from many seated at the table. “I do not anticipate war, but it is unwise to grow complacent, as I'm sure you will recognize. We have also noted the concern about the proposed privatization of this as a toll road – some of you are more inclined to like such a development, especially if you are granted the contract, and some disinclined because of the possibility of enhanced travel costs and outrageous fees.

“My advisors and I, with the advice of this select group, have put together a compromise which I hope will dispel some of these doubts. I wish to suggest the construction of not one, but three passes through the mountains.”

There was an interested silence as I spoke those words. “These passes would be small, not large enough for troops to efficiently use. I recommend that this council select those merchants, or cooperatives of developers, to independently construct and regulate these passes. One third of the contribution would go to each selected group or member. There are many details which I will now enumerate to you.”

As I continued my spiel, addressing various concerns from the merchants, and explaining my own concerns for each point, I found my mind wandering to the preparations for Aram's trip, and had to refocus on the issue at hand.

One of the visiting merchants raised his hand. “How can we be assured there will be enough commerce to justify these passes? For one, perhaps, but for three? We must be able to support the roads with the tolls without making them prohibitively high.”

I bowed in thanks to the speaker. “That is an important point, sir. The Ambassador from the South has respectfully requested the honor of addressing this assembly, and I believe that one of the points he wishes to make involves that very question. If I may introduce him, sir,” I addressed the current council leader, “he would like to make a pertinent statement before you reach a conclusion.”

After a short vote, the Ambassador was presented to the council and made a well-couched argument for the proposed passes, answering the questions posed to him. He was an able politician, and I mentally took notes on his conduct. Such lessons should never be wasted.

Yeah, I'm sorry, I do have more story thought out, but I need to get it down.  Soon!

The Fleeting Anemone

I stood watching as Anise finished her distribution.  Unsure of how to help, I tried to gather things as she looked for them.  Aram had already saddled their mounts, who stood greedily consuming the remnants of a grain ration.  The air inside the stable was thick, sweet, and warm -- however, I knew that a mere cracking of the outside doors would admit piercing cold.

"Do you have your knife?" I asked Anise.

"Yes," she replied, patting her side under her riding habit.

"Is there anything else I can get for you?"

She looked thoughtful, then nodded.  "Yes, I should greatly appreciate a warm drink before heading out.  I'm sure that Aram, Lucius, and Thorold would enjoy one, as well."

"Of course," I agreed, and set off towards the kitchen again.  The cook was stirring a pot of cereal for an early breakfast, and a kettle of hot water was steaming over a corner of the fire.

I rifled in among the various spices, which caused the cook to harrumph in my direction.  Smiling apologetically, I asked, "Do we have any cider, Cook?"

"'Tis in the cellar, your Majesty.  Shall I send Emma after a jug for you?"

"Have her fetch enough for four people," I directed.

The cook sent Emma scampering for the cider with strict admonitions to spill none of it.  I pulled out the spices I required from the cook's stores, and added them carefully to the cider when Emma returned.

As I carried a tray with the four mugs out to the stables, I saw Lucius before me in the passageway.

"Lucius Brees, " I called.  He turned, and, seeing me, bowed deeply.  "Your Majesty!" He spoke as though he had not seen me in years. "How lovely you are this fine morning."

I must have gaped at him in some confused shock, for he immediately apologized, turned faintly red, and inquired how he could be of service to me.

Recovering, I offered the tray to him.  "Please, have a drink. I have brought cider for the four of you."  Bowing again, he accepted a glass, then let me pass before him into the stables.  Anise was conversing with Aram and Thorold regarding the route they planned to take out of town.  Lucius loudly joined the conversation, and as the other noticed the hot mug in his hands, I presented the remaining cups to them.

"So, my lady,"  Aram addressed Anise, "You maintain that we will have smoother traveling if we take the road south to the foothills, skirt those until coming to Lethe, and then continue up into the mountain range?"  Anise assented.  Aram continued, "However, you do not know where this dragon has its lair.  So why travel in such an immoderate circle?"

"Reports have indicated that the beast flew away to the south.  Also, it will be easier to ascend on that end of the mountain range.  Once aloft, we can follow the mountain paths.  Another consideration is that there will be more people along the road south -- we can continue to inquire after any who have seen the dragon."

 

I'm still happy with the story although I may need to pay a little more attention as I did not catch the name discrepancy. One thing though . . .it seems as the the font is changing sizes? Or is it just me. . .

 

Lucius raised a skeptical eyebrow. “You want to rely on the statements of frightened peasants?” Although it was not my conversation, I interjected, “Well, you can at least look at the direction they are running and head the opposite way.” Aram looked as though he would greatly like to completely ignore my comment and move on, but wasn't sure of the protocol. Thorold and Anise barely glanced my way, while Lucius grinned but said nothing. Anise continued, “Also, by the time we get to Lethe, we will need to restock provisions before heading into the mountains. If we started from here, we would not get nearly as far before having to turn downhill to find a village or trading post.”

 

Thorold nodded. “That is sense, my lady. Aram, I believe we would do well to follow her advice on this matter.”

 

“Indeed, my lady, you appear to have thought it out rather well for such short notice,” Aram noted in an almost peeved manner. “In all honesty,” Anise admitted, “the idea of such a journey has occupied my mind ever since you arrived and it became a possibility. Even before I knew I was going, my mind began to tease at the problem. Forgive me if I appear overbearing – I merely have a specific idea of what my opinion is.” She gave a slight curtsy in Aram's direction, and he blushed slightly.

 

“I meant no offense, my lady, and we are all grateful for your input. I am not so familiar with the valley roads, however; thus my inclination for mountain paths, where my horse is as sure-footed as a goat and I can interpret the very cries of hawks and hares.” He inclined his head toward Anise, and the atmosphere in the room became quite friendly once again.

 

Feeling very encouraged at this interchange and hoping it was the meter of their cooperation in the future, I left the group to finalize their preparations and returned to my office to do I knew not what. I moved papers at random for some minutes, stared at the fire for moments more, and finally realized that I was accomplishing exactly nothing. The stables greeted me across the courtyard as I left the castle from a side entrance, relishing the brisk air which sharply caught in my throat and refreshed my aimless mind.

 

“Idle hands, your Majesty?” The General's voice sounded from the barracks where he was standing with several guards, and I gladly left off my wandering to head towards him.

 

“I'm afraid so. The party is leaving within the half hour, and I find myself at a loss for how to help. I am attempting to cause as little trouble as possible my merely absenting myself from the important bits of preparation.” The General smiled at me, then a questioning look arose on his face. “But surely, your Majesty, you're not going to send them off in those clothes? Should you not be wearing some sort of regalia?”

 

I suddenly realized I was still wearing the old house-dress I had thrown on after returning from my reading the night before. My face became quite warm. “Oh, dear. I did not think of that. You are right, I ought to go prepare for the send-off.” Grateful for the reminder, I turned and began to walk quickly back to the castle, turning to shout a thanks before I entered the door.

Yes! Yes! Yes! Someone has broken the foul spell and posted. Yes!

How can she free him from the boundaries of the realm? Don't the neighbors have anything to say?

Speak softly and carry a big stick.

Part Two: Midwinter, December (before Solstice)

Abstract from a letter sent to Her Majesty by Lady Anise D'ladien, during her participation in the Quest of Aram:

My dear friend, I hope you are faring well in my absence. I am trying to avoid self-importance, but I cannot help but wonder whether Jereth took to heart my instructions to him regarding prompting you to ride out often, and not stay in that stuffy library. You are quite stubborn, I know, and he may have become frustrated already.

I know you are anxious for news, so I will not delay it longer. We have traveled safely thus far, arriving in Lethe the day before yesterday (a mere ten days after setting out). We have camped in the wilds but once, finding taverns and farms to put up in on most occasions. There has been no concrete news of the dragon; merely tales and stories to frighten children into coming home in time for supper.

Aram and Lucius departed yesterday to discover the condition of the roads, and see which path we might take. I believe they are also going to attempt to hire a guide, at least to get us fairly in the mountains. They have not yet returned, so I am taking a moment to write and then Thorold and I will replenish the few supplies we have used thus far, and purchase a few more furs for the cold temperatures we will shortly encounter.

I hate to leave you so quickly, so I will end with some more trivial thoughts. Lucius and Thorold have kept us cheerful with their feuding; Lucius an immoderate clown, as you well know, and Thorold finds himself playing the straight part too often for his comfort. Aram has not yet threatened to abandon them in the woods, but he does separate them when Thorold seems close to an eruption. Thorold found a piece of ice in his bed last night, a parting gift from Lucius. However, he may be entering into the spirit of the game -- he has made a couple of extraneous purchases that should be very amusing in the future.

I shall append our plans to this letter before sending it via messenger on my way out of Lethe.

 

We are leaving in the morning to head up the mountain. Aram and Lucius found a guide, a man named Grinthun who knows the area well. There were some rumors of a large animal who had eaten a boar that was out in the forest, so we will see if that bears any fruit. I shall send updates whenever possible.

 

Your friend,

Anise D'ladien

 

Well done oh quivering one. Carry on in this diligent manner and you may not need fear my centipedes.

My fault. :D Maybe, sort of. She wanted to leave it with the depressing, my best friend was just eaten by a dragon, prologue. Ben and I did our best to talk her out of that, and it would appear that our best was good enough.

Yeah, that's pretty much it.  I really had no intention of going any further with this.  But it seems to be coming along all right so far.  :-)

I was not expected, and the cottage looked dark and cold, in spite of the nearly invisible smoke issuing from the chimney.  It was scandalously close to supper time to be visiting anyone, but I draped my horse's reins over the fence, walked up the path, and knocked on the front door anyway. The wind was slight, but still icily reached onto the porch. After a few minutes, Aunt Priscilla opened the door.

 

“My dear, what on earth are you doing out tonight? It's freezing out there!” She beckoned me in, and closed the door after me. The house was warm and slightly humid inside, with a faint scent of onions and potatoes. "Have you eaten yet?”

"Yes, I have, thank you." I shrugged off my coat and scarf and hung them on a hook behind the door.

She gave me a quick hug, then led me further into the house. "I've just finished dinner, and I was about to have a cup of hot chocolate and mix up some cookies before my oven cools.  Would you like some?"

"Yes, please.  Can I help?"

"Of course, just set your coat over that chair, and I'll find you an apron."

I followed my aunt across the room and tied the proffered apron around my waist.  The simple, nostalgic motions helped ease the tension from my back and shoulders.  I recalled the days when Aunt Priscilla had helped care for me and given me lessons in the kitchen and in basic mending and cleaning.  "Princess or not," she had told my father, "her education should not be neglected.". My father had agreed, much to my initial dismay.  "You are destined to rule after me, my dear.  You need to have at least a slight idea what real life is like for people who are not beautiful princesses living in a castle."

My eyes prickled as I bent over the bowl of sugar and egg.

"Have you heard from Anise yet?" Aunt Priscilla asked from the stove where she was melting chocolate.

 

“Yes, actually,” I responded, “I received a report today. They've reached Lethe, and have just headed up into the mountains. They found a local guide to help them find a good trail up.” I added flour to the bowl, and began mixing slightly more vigorously than necessary.

 

“Good, I'm glad to hear it,” my aunt remarked, as she slowly added cream to the melted chocolate. “It'll be quite the tale if they succeed, I'm sure. Anise will never lack for an interested audience! Although I daresay Lucius is more the performing type.”

 

“Yes,” I chuckled at the thought, “but he will be much more likely to embroider the story. They will be true heroes who conquer Cyclops and reach the gates of Perdition before he's finished telling it.”

 

She grinned. “I expect you're right. But still, it will be quite the tale even unembellished.” She gave the chocolate a final flourishing stir, and came over to help me shape the cookies into small balls.

...  and then suddenly he was before us, rampant, with flame extruding from his nostrils for nigh on 20 feet into the air.  His cry was the thunder, the voice a thousand white mountains dancing with glee at midnight on winter's solstice.  A mad, cruel joy in the hunt and capture emanated from his visage as he regarded us. "What ho, mortals," it seemed to say, "I was wanting a little snack."

 

-- extract from a letter from Lucius Brees, On Dragon Mountain directed to Smaling D'ladien, Trysdale Manor.

 

Lucius peered up the mountain through frost-rimed eyelashes. He had dropped his wooden goggles during the last slide, and was now struggling through the heavy, silent snow along the path the others had left. His pony was snorting at the whiteness, and pulling him backwards. Lucius jerked on the lead in frustration, then stopped for a moment, heart pounding.

 

“Hey!” Thorold, the last man ahead of him, turned and waved his arms. “Come on! Hurry!”

 

Lucius grimaced, and pulled firmly on the reins again. “All right, Bonehead,” he muttered, “We've got to catch them.” The pony stood with all four legs spread wide, refusing to budge. Lucius resisted the urge to smack him, and instead tried some sweet talk. “Come on, Bonehead, just a little further,” he coaxed. “Just over that ridge, I promise.” The animal still looked stubbornly on. “We have to find a lee ridge to sit behind,” Lucius pulled a bit of carrot from his pocket and held it out as he spoke. “Can't get caught in this snow, we might get buried.” The pony sniffed, and started to reach his neck forward. “One little step, that's all it takes … “ He kept the bit of carrot just out of Bonehead's reach, and started to walk backwards very slowly. The pony snorted again, and his legs broke free of the snow that had molded around them even in this brief period. Lucius continued to talk very calmly and gently, while moving backwards. After a couple of steps, he rewarded Bonehead with the carrot, then reached for another piece and continued holding it just out of reach.

 

Finally, they reached the top of the ridge, and Lucius saw the rest of the group off to the left. Aram had a fire started with what little wood they had been able to find and carry for the past few hours, and Anise had pulled out a pan which she was filling with snow to make water for their animals.

 

“Hoy,” called Lucius, careful not to startle his own pony, who was looking interestedly over at the small depression in the side of the cliff that the others were sitting below. It couldn't have been called a cave, but it managed to protect them from some of the snow, and while there wasn't much of a wind at the moment, there were some small shrubs growing there that seemed to have found protection from the mountain-scouring winds that swept through on a regular basis. Thorold was securing the other ponies and horses by hobbling their legs – there was nothing much to tie them to – and the guide was talking to Aram and Anise. Anise looked up and waved at his call, and in a few minutes Lucius had joined them and handed Bonehead over to Thorold. He began to brush the snow from his hair, and shoulders, and shook out his pants and coat.

 

“That's the third fall today,” he observed in a melancholy manner. “I think Bonehead wants to see me dead. I'm the victim of a horse vendetta, and he didn't even do me the courtesy to plan ahead. I'm to be subjugated to every mishap, until even my death will be met with a grin, in the expectation of merely yet another demeaning joke.” No one seemed particularly put out at the prospect of his imminent demise, so Lucius yawned. “Oh, well. There are worse things than to be killed on a mighty quest in the company of a beautiful lady and knight errant!”

 

Anise rolled her eyes, and silently began preparations for dinner. “As I was saying, sir,” Grinthun continued with a glance in Lucius's direction, “This snowfall will probably continue all night. If we camp here, we should be able to avoid becoming buried in the drifts, and we can attempt to continue tomorrow morning. But,” he shook his head, “it will only get worse from here. We are full into winter now, and this is not a kind mountain. You would have done better to sell the horses in town.” Aram's face grew stubborn. “Grinthun, we've been over this. We need the horses. I'm no stranger to mountaineering, and Ysalte is no stranger to snow. We have snowshoes, and we should be able to make it through much further.”

 

“Aye, but the reports tell of a cave at least two thousand feet higher than our position now,” Grinthun expostulated, “and this snow looks to stay and deepen. You may be a mountain man, but I've lived near Krealtow for nigh on thirty years, and he doesn't take kindly to horses.” The mountain above them seemed to ignore the mention of his name, the silence of the snow continuing to muffle everything around them.

 

Aram merely shook his head. “It's not up for discussion right now. We've only got a foot of snow at this point, and it's not like there's anyone to sell them to up here. We'll work with what we have.” He waved Thorold over, and pointed in the direction they had been going. “The cave is another ten miles or so that way, according to Grinthun,” he informed all of them, “so we'll camp here tonight and continue in the morning. If there's too much snow for the horses, we'll leave them and Anise here with one of you guards, and continue on foot. We can meet up on the way back and head down again.”

 

Lucius, who had been putting his hands over his eyes to melt the snow off his lashes and eyebrows, squinted at the fire and Anise's pots. “Okay, Aram, but that doesn't answer the most important question. What's for dinner?”

So nice, but there isn't any left now. :(