Chapter 52

Year 163 – Fall – Quintus Mensis – 21st day

Village of Fresh-Bay, southern Vale

The local folks were storing the hay for winter in a large barn. The whole village had been working together since the harvest of the crops. A few peasants were attaching the hay together while the rest of the villagers were carrying them to the barn. Inside the barn, a group of men were talking while ordering the hay to the second floor.

Man 1 – “I don’t even know why we’re doing this.”

Man 2 – “Did you drink too much last night?”

Man 1 – “Probably, but that’s not the reason.”

Man 3 – “The reason for what?”

Man 2 – “For why we’re doing this?”

Man 3 – “For winter, obviously.”

Man 1 – “If Rock Eden sent their army, it means it isn’t going well against the Kalator.”

Man 3 – “They didn’t send their army; they sent half a hundred. They just want to be part of those who stop the rebellions.”

Man 1 – “You think it’s just that?”

Man 2 – “It would make sense.”

Man 3 – “Stop worrying about it. While we aren’t at war, we shouldn’t worry ourselves. You have a new son; do you want him to think he’s father’s a wimp?”

Man 1 – “I’m not a wimp!”

Man 2 – “Then don’t act like one!”

Man 1 – “Fine, fine . . .”

A kid – “MAYOR OLDRICH!”

A child entered the barn out of breath.

Mayor Oldrich – “What’s wrong, Alfher?”

Alfher – “Soldiers . . . They’re coming from the road . . .”

Mayor Oldrich – “How many?”

The kid counted, using his fingers.

Mayor Oldrich – “It’s ok; I’ll go find them.”

The mayor turned toward the two other men in his company.

Mayor Oldrich – “Both of you, reassemble everyone and bring your weapons.”

Both men began running as the mayor followed the child to the road. When they arrived, they noticed an army of about 80 men walking in their direction.

Mayor Oldrich – “It’s the Krain. Let’s meet with the others.”

Shortly after, the Krain reached the entrance of the village. The townsfolk were armed with spears and bows, awaiting their arrival. Lord Krain walked a few steps in front of his men.

Lord Krain – “Last time I came here, the welcome was warmer.”

Mayor Oldrich – “You were a kid back then. Times have changed.”

Lord Krain – “Oldrich? Is that you?”

Mayor Oldrich – “It is, and I’m still healthy.”

Lord Krain – “It’s a miracle. You must be loved by the gods.”

Mayor Oldrich – “I suppose you didn’t come all the way here to mock my old age!”

Lord Krain – “You are correct. My men are tired and hungry. If I recall, your village is well known for its ales.”

Mayor Oldrich – “Why is it you who’s coming to my village and not the general from Rock Eden?”

Lord Krain – “The siege is still ongoing. I left half of my men there. I am going to talk to Lord Nikolas in person for a matter I cannot speak about here.”

Followed by a silence, Krain’s words hadn’t managed to bring trust between both parties. The wind was rising, making the peasant hold their spear tighter. A few Krain soldiers had grabbed the handles of their swords.

Lord Krain – “Will you not offer your hospitality to a lord in mission?”

Mayor Oldrich – “Oh, but I will. I’m simply concerned about where your men will sleep. I have room for about 30, but not for such a mighty force.”

Lord Krain – “It’s fine. We’ll use your barn. It will still be better than the woods they slept in the last few days.”

Mayor Oldrich – “Ivan, show them the way to the barn. Lord Krain, we have room for your best 30 men. We’ll prepare a feast with ales for tonight. Until then, welcome to Fresh-Bay!”

Lord Krain – “Thank you! Let’s move everyone!”

General Thorkel – “FOWARD!”

All the soldiers of the Krain then walked past the villagers, following Ivan. Once they were too far to hear, a villager turned toward the mayor with blades in his eyes.

Man – “Why would you make a feast? We need that food for winter!”

Mayor Oldrich – “Have you ever looked at a wolf in the eyes?”

Man – “Why does it matter?”

Mayor Oldrich – “He gave us a favour and warned us not to ask too much.”

Man – “You’re saying he’s a deserter?”

Mayor Oldrich – “SILENCE! I don’t want to hear anyone say these words until they’ve left. Some truths are better to remain unknown!”