chapter eighteen
Kereina was quite full of pride, among other things. The second Krysli, chosen shortly after Lida's inaugural flight and the unveiling of the power of the Krysli, she had enjoyed her position as nominal head of the Order in Randle's absence for several years now, following the departure of Lida for her career as a councilor in Siguard's citadel. Not that Randle was ever far enough from her side to be absent, not that she had any official authority given his constant proximity, yet proud she remained. So much so that, a few years back, a decision was made that there should be a superior segment of the order, a kind of ruling faction comprised of the six most senior Krysli. Since theTwo Sisters, mighty Lirra and quiet Cori, had left the order long ago, shortly after Lida set her precedent, this left Kereina and numbers five through nine to fill the ranks as the High Krysli, as they called themselves. Kereina, Melva, Girinne, Senlenna, Telirrin, and sweet little Dia, in that order.
Lendora could not say whether this decision had been made by Randle or Kereina, or whether it had been fashioned as a pronouncement at the dinner table or concocted in secret in the fastness of Randle's bedroom. All she knew for certain was that it was made known to her upon her shift's return to the Magician's estate in the woods, and there was nothing formally added to the order's written mandate. It had been, for all intents and purposes, a gesture and little more, and had remained so until now.
For now, the Magician was reduced to a babbling blessed child, and the Order was thrown into chaos. Proud Kereina did not hesitate to call upon her fellow senior Krysli's to take counsel; they'd taken several private meetings in the small meeting room upstairs, and continued to do so. Randle, in the meantime, was sequestered in a heavily guarded room near the center of the mansion and continued to speak nonsense as one touched. Ostensibly, only senior Krysli with Kereina's approval were allowed to see him, but Lendora had recently managed to secure a brief visit. Dia and Senlenna were on guard outside his door that day, and she had succeeded in winning their trust long enough for a glimpse at their Lightfather, the Bestower of Gifts, the teacher who had brought them all such fame and power.
One short glimpse was all it took. The man was pitiful, mumbling incoherently with the eyes of a madman. His recent brush with death had reduced him to a world of shadows and portents, and he would not venture forth from his room. So it had remained for a fortnight and more, nigh on a full passing of the moon.
One of the first edicts Kereina's High Krysli issued was to cease all patrols. This was explained over dinner as a request straight from Randle himself. He feared another attempt on his life, they were told, and required the vigilance of the Krysli in their full number to keep him safe. Since all Oaths had been made first to the Lightfather, and only secondarily to the protection of Siguard, most of the tittering Krysli obeyed this radical measure with little complaint. Lendora was not among their number. She had secretly loathed Randle's crass mannerisms and abusive, entitled behavior ever since the first night she was told of the extra duties she was expected to perform to satiate the Magician's appetite. It was presented to her as a necessary act of gratitude, for were they not all bound inextricably to the Lightfather? Fitting then, they said, that the Krysli should make themselves available to his appetites as he deemed necessary. Since that first night in the Magician's bed, Lendora had felt greatly ashamed. Her parents, so proud at her acceptance into the order, her brother, so supportive of her over the course of an entire life together--they would call her a whore if they knew. This was her little secret, the Krysli's little secret. Oft-whispered about by their adoring but suspicious fans in the common citizenry, oft-joked about by the soldiers who served at their side on the Northern Watch, when they thought the Krysli were not listening. But Lendora was always listening. She was listening now, behind a heavy wooden door ever so slightly ajar, outside the High Krysli chamber. Kereina had called another meeting after dinner, and Lendora tired of feeling left in the dark.
She had thought, more than once, of following the example of Lida Vianna and the Two Sisters herself, yet had never quite managed the courage to follow through with it. Something kept her within reach of the Magician's heart-wrending grasp. Something held her fast despite all reason.
Kereina was speaking now. "My peers, we must look well to the future of our Order. None outside this room are aware of the extent of harm wrought upon our master." At this Lendora could not help but smile. She hoped that Senlenna and little Dia fared better in full view of Kereina. "I will remind you all once again that our first duty is to the Lightfather. Siguard will have to manage her own defenses while we tend to our own affairs. Perhaps it shall only be for a little while."
"The patrols cannot be wholly forsaken, Kereina." This was Girinne, a bold woman from the southlands who had an amazing presence of mind. This little special group of elites would serve much more nobly were she their leader. Sadly, she was not, and was thus reduced to playing the thankless role of the voice of reason. "Godiian spies will soon mark our absence, and their general will alter his designs accordingly."
Kereina seemed to have little use for reason. "Girinne, think upon this. Why are we so certain that Godii is ever at the ready to sweep devastation upon Siguard? A few border skirmishes quelled with burning finality are less than sure proof that General Graeme intends to march on the citadel." Ahh. The great burning on the Northern Marches several summers back. That had been the work of the mighty Lirra, long-since departed with her little sister in tow. "And where are these spies you mention? Have you seen them yourself? Pray, let us not allow the General Enderin's paranoia enter into our own counsel. Once the Lightfather has been restored, once his safety is procured, then we shall resume our duties alongside the soldiery, if such be his wish."
Kereina's reasoning was circular and laden with contradiction. On the one hand, she proclaimed fear of Godiian action against Randle, yet on the other, she dismissed concerns that Godii would make any bold moves against Siguard. Thankfully, Lendora was not the only one to notice this. "Your reasoning is unsound, sister." Ah, Dia, sweet little Dia. Very little in the way of nonsense or foolishness made it past her without comment. "Randle's paranoia bids us forsake our duties along the Northern March for fear of attack here deep within the boundaries of Siguard, yet the General's paranoia that enemy spies watch our movements from afar along the border are fancy?"
There was a tense pause before Kereina answered. "Yes Dia, you penetrate to the heart of our danger far better than I myself could have. I thank you." Lendora could just see her condescending nod in her mind. She'd seen it enough in person. "It is not Siguard, nor her armies, that the General moves against. It is the Father of the Krysli himself. Think for a moment, all of you. Why waste time and resources preying upon the common soldiery when it is we who have the power to destroy an entire ballion on a whim? No, if I were General Graeme, I would target the Krysli, or more rightly, he who commands them. The Northern March will be safe enough, so long as the Lightfather persists. Randle fears that Graeme has learned of his identity, perhaps even his location, due to the actions of--"
Kereina's voice trailed off. Kereina's voice never trailed off; she was far too proper and important to let her words merely fade. There was a sound of some commotion, of seats being scooted across the floor. "Pray continue, Kereina. You were about to speak of how my actions have put Randle in danger?" Lida!
What was Lida doing here, now? The councilor did not leave any of them wondering for long. She'd always had a way of getting to the point with little waste of words. "The rest of the household is gathered in the courtyard. We would be honored if you would join us. We are having a meeting of the full order."
Kereina snorted. "That cannot be! The Two Sisters--"
"Await you as well, Kereina. For the first time in over seven summers, the entire Order of the Krysli is assembled." Lida sighed. "Or will be, once you seven join us."
Kereina was loth to give up control. "On whose authority do you call such a meeting, Councilor? And have you been away for so long, to forget all reckoning of numbers? There are but six of us in this room."
Lendora knew what was coming. Very well. Though she respected Kereina's power, she had learned little respect for her powers of reasoning. She opened the door and entered the room to see the senior Krysli still frozen in position, some standing, some yet sitting, while Kereina matched her will against the newcomer who stood in the far doorway. Lida acknowledged Lendora's entrance with a wry grin and nodded. "I count seven, Kereina."
Lendora felt the full weight of Kereina's contempt bearing down upon her as she circled the table, coming quite near to its source as she passed, close enough to hear her mutter, "Spies indeed." If Lida did not win the day, there would be repercussions. Ah, well. Let it be so, then. Lendora stood next to Lida and acknowledged her as they both faced Kereina's counsel.
"Greetings, First Krysli. It is well that you have come."
"Thank you, Lendora. Now, let all thought of reprimand pass, and let the Krysli come to order." Lida was waiting for Kereina's surrender. She did not have to wait long. Dia, then Girinne, then the others rose and left their seats. Kereina played her last card.
"What of the Lightfather and his safety?"
Lida laughed as she turned to lead the way from the room. "If you worry for his safety, you should join him in the courtyard where he also waits for you, High Krysli." Lendora stifled a giggle at this parting shot. Kereina could fashion titles for herself all she liked, but Lida Vianna would always be the First Krysli.
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Rane Jevers was in remarkably good humor. As Market Day drew to a close, as his sons and the sons of countless other merchants here in the Square prepared to break down their booths and leave the Market's bustle behind, he smiled at the thought of the light wagon load he would be riding this evening. It had been a good day, his pins and peaches selling well despite the lateness of the year. He was just preparing to close his cashbox, already looking forward to counting its contents on the way home, when a man approached his booth.
Not just any man. Rane had been there, along with most of Siguard City, when this man risen on a column of white fire and made speech in this very square nearly a moon ago. This was the so-called Father of the Krysli who stood before him now.
"You sell peaches? I wish to buy peaches, sir." His accent was strange, less strange today in person than on that day of the celebration from afar. Rane wondered if he had any idea how much speculation had passed, both within Rane's own family and between other merchants and citizens of the citadel in the wake of the announcement. Now that he was but an arm's length away, Rane could clearly see that indeed, this Father was scarcely any older than the great Lida Vianna herself. He did not dress as a Magician, and as Rane and several others had noted, everyone knew the Savior of Siguard had to be a Magician. Who else could account for the majesty and power of the Krysli? Indeed, there were some who spoke of a ruse, who suggested that their government sought to mislead their people by presenting a charlatan in place of the real Father. For his part, Rane was simply unsure, and nothing more.
"Surely, honored sir. I offer the finest fruits on this side of the Square or any other, all at a very fair price. Might I interest you in a basket of fresh pins? They are likely the last batch of the season, and the flavor will--" And just like that, Rane was no longer unsure. Two men in black leathern armor were approaching. Godiians! Armed and unashamed, here in the very heart of the Square, under the shadow of the Tower of the Triad?
"Lightfather! Attend!" Tristar turned and followed Rane's warning finger. Then he turned back around with a shrug.
"Thank you, sir, but really, just the peaches will suffice." He reached into the pocket of his black trousers. "How much for--"
Rane had never really considered himself a brave man. He was a farmer and a merchant, and enjoyed a modest life of hard work and fair reward. He'd never listed, was not a member of the militia, indeed, he had never borne a weapon of note his entire forty summers, yet now found himself leaping over the table and charging the approaching threat with his paring knife.
Such swift motion jarred the milling crowd, still thick along the lane even as the end of the Market approached. Screams and cries of alarm went up all around Rane at the sight of Godiians in their midst. They were close now, but whatever reaction the sight of a charging merchant and his paring knife might cause was lost behind their cold, black masks. Rane found himself asking, what am I doing? Why, he was protecting the Father of the Krysli! Damn these Godiians! They'd soon learn to think twice before marching into--
One of the Godiians flicked his wrist and his blade descended with a snap. That was one moment. In the next, Rane was gasping in the dirt, his ears ringing as he rolled around to get his bearings. The Godiians were now accosting the Lightfather with pointed blades before Rane's booth. This Tristar was grinning and trying to... was he trying to shake their hands? What madness was this? Rane's eyes quickly swept the front of his booth. He saw no sign of his two sons. Good. Smart young lads, they'd hidden themselves away.
Rane's heart leapt into his throat. Somebody in the crowd screamed even as a Godiian blade swept forward to claim the Savior of Siguard's neck!
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Lendora massaged her neck, tired as she was of feeling Kereina's sharp eyes upon it. They were all assembled now. Lida herself had brought forth a chair from the mansion so that Randle could be seated in the center of the circle. She might have ordered another to fetch one for her--Kereina and many others here might have--but this was Lida, and she had that straightforward manner of hers. Jenri and Rene helped the Lightfather to his seat, where he continued to gaze and mutter as if he were still in his private chamber. Lendora shook her head at the sight. Many around the circle were likewise amazed. Despite the efforts of the High Krysli, within ten minutes of her arrival here, Lida had revealed Randle's madness to all, unblinking and deranged in the dappled sunlight of the courtyard.
Lida took position at his side, dismissing the other two Krysli to stand in ranks and slowly turning to face them all as she spoke. "Are there any here who now dispute our Lightfather's madness? Though some might wish to hide it away, I will not let it be so. All of you have a right to know the true nature of our current straits. Step forward now and speak if any doubts remain. Randle is touched and no longer fit to command!"
There were a few gasps as Kereina stepped forward, but not too many. Lendora certainly expected this. "By whose authority is this meeting called, if the master is truly of unsound mind? Yours, councilor?"
"You know quite well, Kereina. Mine indeed." Lida swept an arm about the circle without ever taking her eyes off of her challenger. "Does any other question the authority of the First Krysli, or does Kereina stand alone?"
Murmurs dotted the circle, feet shuffled in a few places, but none other shared Kereina's audacity. The second Krysli snorted. "None other need question it. You left the order long ago, and therefore have no authority here. We, the loyal, the faithful, we shall tend to our own. Your insolence and presumptions are far better suited for the Lower Council's chambers than for the Order from which you were cast!"
"I left of my own choosing, Kereina." Lida gestured at her arms and legs. "I retain my Karon Ral and never surrendered my power. In such a time of crisis as this, I intend to make it clear that come the press, neither did I surrender my authority. I ask again, do you challenge this authority?"
Kereina feigned indifference. She was fooling no one. "I scarcely recognize it. None here do. You have been absent far too long to merely walk in at your leisure and issue forth decrees. Such authority rests with the Lightfather and his appointed alone."
Lendora thought that the councilor looked tired, even as she turned her back on Kereina's challenge. She met Lendora's gaze for a moment with a small smile, then swept back around. "Is there any other here who can summon forth the blue skies of peace to stretch horizon to horizon, alone and unaided?"
There were several more gasps as another Krysli stepped forward. Lirra, the elder of the Two Sisters, spoke to her former counterparts for the first time in many summers. "I could. So might my sister. It is not such an impossible feat."
Lida smiled and acknowledged Lirra. Few in the circle doubted her claim. Lirra's command of the Secret Fire was widely accepted among the Krysli as all but absolute.
"And I'll wager I can relieve myself farther than you can!" Dia erupted from the circle, only a few paces to Lendora's left, in animated mockery of young men and their endless competition. In bawdy display she was pretending to relieve herself all about like a drunken soldier. Tension released as laughter swept its way around the circle.
Even Lida laughed at this. Kereina sneered. Only Lirra remained unmoved, waiting for Dia's exaggerated gyrations to cease. "Dia, this is serious business. You, and any who find humor in this debate, may of course leave the circle." She gestured towards her sister. "We did not fly hundreds of leagues to be mocked by the likes of you."
The laughter passed and another battle of wills descended upon the circle. Randle continued to sit sprawled in the chair where he had been placed, oblivious. Dia did not step back into line. "Your authority to command is even less certain than Lida's, outcast! Have a care, lest you find your welcome here lost and your long, tiring journey utterly in vain."
Lirra immediately crossed the circle with long, deliberate strides, bearing down upon Dia like an impending storm. One or two gasps were heard, and for her part, little Dia stood her ground, arms planted defiantly on her hips. Only a gentle hand on Lirra's shoulder and a whisper from Lida saved the gathering from dissolving into chaos and dispute. Lirra paused in the middle now, next to Lida, answering Lida's hushed voice with her own. Her eyes continued to bear down on Dia with fury only scarcely held in check.
"Know this, flitting little butterflies! The enemy is real, his intent, sure." Dia slowly stepped back to her place as Lirra slowly advanced once more. Only then did she turn. "And should the hammer fall, it will not miss its mark. We are all that stands between the hammer and the citadel. Shirk your responsibility to your nation at the peril of your families. The First has returned, and none of you," here her daunting gaze fell upon Kereina, "not one has the authority to gainsay her wisdom. Randle is a fool." She approached the master slouched in his chair and kicked one leg. Now several gasps crept about the circle. Such open disrespect for Randle had not been seen in a long while. In fact, not since the Two Sisters had taken their leave seven summers past. "Any who would continue to follow a madman into folly are even more the fools. Attend to Lida Vianna!" She now approached her senior, the Second, Kereina with that same deliberate stride. "And get yourself back into line at once!"
There was no sound save a short moan from Randle, still blinking without comprehension, as the Second and now returned Third Krysli stood frozen an arm's length apart. Kereina took a step backwards despite herself. Realizing such a retreat was costing her much in the eyes of her juniors, she swept around, presenting her back to Lirra before taking her place in the circle, the remants of her sneer still penetrating her assumed air of acquiescence. "Are you quite finished, former Krysli?"
LIda began to speak. "Lirra, I don't--"
Lirra waved her silent. "Not just yet." Without gesture or word, Cori now stood at her sister's side. "Kereina, for seeking to openly defy the Krysli's charge to defend Siguard and the Five Nations, you are hereby relieved of your station." She turned and flicked her wrist twice. "Girinne, Dia! Come forth and escort the former Second to her chambers, where she shall remain until it pleases me to grant her release." Bearing down upon Kereina once more, she made a demand that had never been voiced in the history of the Order. Randle himself had made no such request upon the departure of Lida, nor the Two Sisters shortly thereafter. Holding out a hand full of portent, she smiled dourly. "Surrender your Karon Ral, little woman."
The Order burst into chatter and exclamation despite the gravity of the moment. Even Lendora was shocked to hear such a command. Lida was hard-pressed to wave the circle back to silence. All eyes were on Kereina and her response. Though three had indeed left the Order, no Krysli had ever been stripped of their power. Lirra clearly sought the full humiliation of the Second, making such a demand in full view of her peers.
Slowly, and with bile spewing forth from her every movement, Kereina loosened the ornate Karon Ral from her forearms and then bent to unwrap those about her shins. Nobody spoke as the bracers fell lifeless to the ground at her feet. Now she was simply a woman, a Krysli no more. Her humiliation was complete. Dia, all thoughts of jest and defiance long departed from her expression, stood at the ready, as did Girinne. Lirra simply pointed at the mansion. "Go."
Escorted ironically by two of her own "High Krysli"--no accident that, given Lirra's ferocity, Lendora was sure--Kereina snarled and said no more, spinning on her heel and leaving the circle. Cori fetched her Karon Ral where they lay and presented them to Lida. Lida shook her had sadly.
"I wish it would not have to come to this. That was harsh medicine, dispensed without proper counsel, Lirra."
Lirra simply shrugged. "She's had that coming for a long while." At last she smiled, and beckoned her sister to join her back in the circle. The Krysli on either side shuffled sideways to allow the Two Sisters ample space. "Pray, continue, First Krysli."
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A Godiian blade clove the chill late afternoon air of the Market Square and naught else. The Savior's neck simply was not there anymore. With a grin most out of place, he now hunched low and hurled himself with outstretched arms to grapple with both of his attackers at once. The trio landed roughly in the dirt. Godiian curses accompanied flailing limbs as the assassins tried to gain hold upon their target. Impossibly, thought Rane, he was no longer there, but now stood at the ready several paces hence, returned almost fully to the front of Rane's booth. He was smiling and bright-eyed. Surely no common man could have moved with such blinding speed. The Godiians struggled with much clatter on the flagged stone to regain their footing. Rane quickly decided he would not allow it. He was not alone as several merchants and bystanders fell upon the Godiians in a pile of indignation. Within minutes, both would be assassins were disarmed and bound face down in the street. Rane sent one of his boys after the thors and then tended to Tristar.
"Sir, forgive my errant blow. I sought to spare you such base handling by the likes of these."
The Father of the Krysli--for what else could he be?--grinned and patted Rane's shoulder. "It was kind of you, but completely unnecessary. I have withstood their attacks before. Ever they seek to keep me on my feet and at the ready. It is quite a game!"
"Sir, you might have been injured. Who then would look after your Krysli?"
Tristar appeared unconcerned. "Oh, somebody would look in on them after a while. Probably the Princess."
Rane thought him touched for a moment, uttering such nonsense. Then he remembered that this was a Magician, despite his strange garb, and therefore likely to speak in phrases beyond the understanding of common folk. Such was the way with wise men, or so he had been taught. "Princess. Right. She's your favorite, isn't she? The first, the councilor?"
Tristar appeared to notice Rane for the first time, taking him in with strange, deep-set eyes. "You know her? Ah, yes. She is quite a remarkable person!"
The Savior's smile was infectious. With the assassins only just subdued less than ten paces away, Rane found himself mirroring Tristar's wide grin. "Indeed she is, sir! The finest of the Krysli, and the noblest of coucilors! Why, she has the full trust and support of all good Siguardians, sir!"
"Ah, that thought makes me happy." The Savior was looking about for his basket of fruit. Rane added several of his most choice peaches and pins until it nearly ran over and waved away the offered coins.
"No, Sir Tristar. My goods are free of charge for one to whom we all owe such a debt of gratitude. I pray, please stop by my booth any Market Day you please, and I will see that you enjoy the finest fruit in all the Northlands!"
The crowd was beginning to thicken around the Savior of Siguard. Everyone wanted to touch and speak to this newly-revealed father figure, he who had brought them the Krysli, he who ensured the peace and kept General Graeme at bay. Few even took note when the thors finally arrived and took the Godiian assailants away, presumably for questioning. But the Father of the Krysli had sharp eyes.
"Ho there, good soldier of Siguard! Have a care with that one!" Tristar pointed to one of the Godiian assassins. "I fear his right leg took injury upon our fall. Tend to him well, he is surely in pain!"
Rane smiled. What manner of hero this, to think upon the health of men who just moments before had tried to steal his own life away? An exceptional man, this Tristar, this Magician, this Savior of Siguard. He would be sure and tell his wife and friends--especially old Tobir at the keep--about his adventure today, and his own brush with greatness.
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It was late, and Lendora's mouth was dry. There had been so much talking on this strange day, and the relin in her glass did little to slake her thirst. But at least it helped keep her calm. She considered the councilor's question thoughtfully, allowing herself more time than needed to answer. The implications of this request...
"You realize it would be difficult for me, Lida. I can think of at least nine who might resent any such borrowed authority resting in my lap and not theirs." She drained her cup and reached for the decanter between them. Even the tiniest noises reverberated with exaggerated portent here in the large dining hall.
Lida's glass remained untouched. "I need someone I can trust. You are my closest friend in all the order. Did I not recommend you to Randle himself? Now I choose you once more. I call you to a higher service once again."
Lendora let a sour smile pass her face. "Fine and well enough for you. You will not be here come the morning. There will be a reckoning, and heated debate."
Lida sighed and Lendora realized for the first time that the councilor was weary. Her eyes were heavy, and rested long once settled on their target. Currently they rested on the full glass before her. "I will speak to each of the senior Krysli before leaving tonight. Yes, even Kereina, though I expect little sympathy from her after Lirra's... actions." She looked at Lendora with a pale smile. "They will abide by my decision, my appointment of you as my surrogate, else I shall not leave."
Lendora dropped her own eyes. "Well, at least with patrols resumed, I shall have less to contend with. It is good that you sent Melva and Telerrin out with the first flight. They would be... will be difficult. It will be easier for the next few days without their loyalties to Kereina getting in the way."
The hall loomed large and dark about them during the silence that followed. It was not a room meant for two. The light was dim, but not so dim that Lendora missed a glimpse of the First Krysli biting her lip, deep in thought. Did she worry yet on Lendora's account, or struggle with the harsh decisions made this day, or were there other matters, Council matters, weighing now upon her?
"Lendora, if you sense anything amiss, call upon me at once. Should Randle suddenly wax lucid, I need to know. His actions would be unpredictable, and the patrols must continue. Did you attend to Lirra's account before she left? From their vantage point in far away Ratan, so close to the enemy, the Sisters see much that disturbs them. Godii is moving." Lida sighed again. "Until certain matters are cleared up in the Council, we Krysli are all that can assure Graeme's movements remain within Graeme's lands."
Lendora let that last sentence hover between them for a time. She was tired. The relin wasn't helping her there. "I wonder, do we give General Ward's army short shrift with the constant, unspoken insistence that they could not defend our lands without our aid?"
"I would fairly say that one Siguardian soldier is worth any two Godii might throw at them. Yet by all estimates, Handa is outnumbered three to one. Valor and skill alone cannot stave off Graeme's will, should he truly be bent on invasion."
Remembering Kereina's words earlier that evening, Lendora was surprised to find herself echoing them. "Are you certain he is so bent?"
"He is certainly bent on something. The Council has their work cut out for them, sorting through recent events."
"Perhaps he is just bent."
It took a moment for the humor to make its way into the room and descend upon her, but it was quite rewarding to hear the First Krysli smile and finally laugh, if only for a moment, if only with eyes still downcast. Lendora's father had always said that laughter will save us all. Of course, her father would now call her a whore, if he knew--
"Perhaps, Lendora. Perhaps." Lida finally took a drink of her relin, smiling over the glass at Lendora.
"What has become of the Wonderer?"
Lida set her glass down, still smiling. "Tristar? Why, he is the Father of the Krysli, to the public eye at any rate. I keep him with me to safeguard him. I put him at a terrible risk, and will soon have to answer to that, among other things, back in the citadel."
The mesmerizing swirl of relin as she gently stirred it with one finger could not keep Lendora's eyes down, nor her question long at bay. "He stays with you, then?"
"Lendora, you--"
"You come in here and ask much of me, Lida. You have asked much of me for some time, since before the anniversary celebration, where we first defied Randle's will." Lendora was standing now, arms planted heavily on the wide table between them. "You had the finest soldier, the great hero Garth Vencher upon your arm when last you left me here, and now he is scarcely cold and you would seem to have Tristar fast upon the other. What manner of woman are you?"
Lida was perhaps too tired to be taken aback, but at least her eyes sprang to life. "What is this? An accusation?"
"You take the best for yourself and leave little for your friends, such as they may be, Lida. Garth was perhaps only a dream, but Tristar, the Wonderer--he was dear to me. We spent much time together here before bringing him to the citadel, to you." Her arms were trembling. She took her relin and drained it once more, setting it down with a slam that echoed loudly in her ears. "I taught him many things. Many things he has no doubt unlearned under your tutelage. It is unfair, that you should gather such men in rapid succession t yourself. It is unfair that you should steal my hope for the Wonderer from me."
"Lendora, I have no designs on Tristar."
"You're lying. He is fascinating, this stranger, and you know it."
"He is, and yet, I have no designs upon him." Lida rose and reached far across the table to pat Lendora's hand. "Rest easy, dear friend. Your Tristar would have none of me."
Lendora blinked. Could it be true? She retook her seat, abashed. "My apologies, Lida. I spoke ill and out of turn. I shared more of my emotions, scarcely perceived by their owner, than I should have." She looked up to see Lida smiling down upon her. "Think well of me, Lida."
"How could I think otherwise? You are dear to me, Lendora." Lida now took her leave of the table. "I must now go and wrestle these High Krysli into line. Lirra has not made the task any easier for me."
Lendora turned in her chair. "I know... to take the Karon Ral... it is unheard of, such a harsh judgement."
Lida shrugged as she crossed the hall. "Such is Lirra's way, and I did call her here. She came only as a favor to me, perhaps her last. I will take responsibility, and do what I can to mend the damage done. Fear not! I shall speak with you again before leaving, and shall not leave until I am satisfied that the Order sees reason."
Lendora waved and smiled to herself, savoring the irony. After all these years serving the Fire, living in such proximity to the Burning, had they finally seen the light?
----------
Gal Burlo shook off the drudgery of the early morning shift at once and stood at attention. "Councilor! We are honored by your visit! How can I be of service?" But before she replied, another figure came through the door and entered the station. The General Enderin herself! "Madame General! H-how are you this evening?"
General Ward looked quite tired, but her eyes remained as daunting as ever. "It is morning, and the hour is far too late for an old woman's liking. Tell me, officer, is Thor Keller still on duty?"
Gal nodded. "Indeed, General, she has remained on duty far past her due." He motioned towards the far door. "She yet watches over the Godiian assassins we apprehended today."
The Councilor spoke with a heavy voice. "Take us to her, Thor."
Gal fairly jogged to the door to hold it open for his unexpected, esteemed visitors. "They have not spoken a word, nor even removed their helms. Thor Keller saw fit to allow them their preference."
The General fixed him with those eyes of hers as she passed. "You have not spoken with them?"
"No madame, nor any other save perhaps Keller, that I can discern. Is this... well?"
The General smiled as she followed the councilor through the door. "Quite well, good thor. We will be taking these prisoners for special interrogation. You will make note of this and ask not a question more. This is a matter of great national security, and your discretion is essential. Your superiors have already been advised. There is no need to spare another thought on these Godiians' account." Her smile departed as she passed through the door. "Do I make myself clear, thor?"
Gal stood at attention once again. "Absolutely, Madame General."
The General's eyes twinkled as she closed the door behind her. "Good."
Lendora could not say whether this decision had been made by Randle or Kereina, or whether it had been fashioned as a pronouncement at the dinner table or concocted in secret in the fastness of Randle's bedroom. All she knew for certain was that it was made known to her upon her shift's return to the Magician's estate in the woods, and there was nothing formally added to the order's written mandate. It had been, for all intents and purposes, a gesture and little more, and had remained so until now.
For now, the Magician was reduced to a babbling blessed child, and the Order was thrown into chaos. Proud Kereina did not hesitate to call upon her fellow senior Krysli's to take counsel; they'd taken several private meetings in the small meeting room upstairs, and continued to do so. Randle, in the meantime, was sequestered in a heavily guarded room near the center of the mansion and continued to speak nonsense as one touched. Ostensibly, only senior Krysli with Kereina's approval were allowed to see him, but Lendora had recently managed to secure a brief visit. Dia and Senlenna were on guard outside his door that day, and she had succeeded in winning their trust long enough for a glimpse at their Lightfather, the Bestower of Gifts, the teacher who had brought them all such fame and power.
One short glimpse was all it took. The man was pitiful, mumbling incoherently with the eyes of a madman. His recent brush with death had reduced him to a world of shadows and portents, and he would not venture forth from his room. So it had remained for a fortnight and more, nigh on a full passing of the moon.
One of the first edicts Kereina's High Krysli issued was to cease all patrols. This was explained over dinner as a request straight from Randle himself. He feared another attempt on his life, they were told, and required the vigilance of the Krysli in their full number to keep him safe. Since all Oaths had been made first to the Lightfather, and only secondarily to the protection of Siguard, most of the tittering Krysli obeyed this radical measure with little complaint. Lendora was not among their number. She had secretly loathed Randle's crass mannerisms and abusive, entitled behavior ever since the first night she was told of the extra duties she was expected to perform to satiate the Magician's appetite. It was presented to her as a necessary act of gratitude, for were they not all bound inextricably to the Lightfather? Fitting then, they said, that the Krysli should make themselves available to his appetites as he deemed necessary. Since that first night in the Magician's bed, Lendora had felt greatly ashamed. Her parents, so proud at her acceptance into the order, her brother, so supportive of her over the course of an entire life together--they would call her a whore if they knew. This was her little secret, the Krysli's little secret. Oft-whispered about by their adoring but suspicious fans in the common citizenry, oft-joked about by the soldiers who served at their side on the Northern Watch, when they thought the Krysli were not listening. But Lendora was always listening. She was listening now, behind a heavy wooden door ever so slightly ajar, outside the High Krysli chamber. Kereina had called another meeting after dinner, and Lendora tired of feeling left in the dark.
She had thought, more than once, of following the example of Lida Vianna and the Two Sisters herself, yet had never quite managed the courage to follow through with it. Something kept her within reach of the Magician's heart-wrending grasp. Something held her fast despite all reason.
Kereina was speaking now. "My peers, we must look well to the future of our Order. None outside this room are aware of the extent of harm wrought upon our master." At this Lendora could not help but smile. She hoped that Senlenna and little Dia fared better in full view of Kereina. "I will remind you all once again that our first duty is to the Lightfather. Siguard will have to manage her own defenses while we tend to our own affairs. Perhaps it shall only be for a little while."
"The patrols cannot be wholly forsaken, Kereina." This was Girinne, a bold woman from the southlands who had an amazing presence of mind. This little special group of elites would serve much more nobly were she their leader. Sadly, she was not, and was thus reduced to playing the thankless role of the voice of reason. "Godiian spies will soon mark our absence, and their general will alter his designs accordingly."
Kereina seemed to have little use for reason. "Girinne, think upon this. Why are we so certain that Godii is ever at the ready to sweep devastation upon Siguard? A few border skirmishes quelled with burning finality are less than sure proof that General Graeme intends to march on the citadel." Ahh. The great burning on the Northern Marches several summers back. That had been the work of the mighty Lirra, long-since departed with her little sister in tow. "And where are these spies you mention? Have you seen them yourself? Pray, let us not allow the General Enderin's paranoia enter into our own counsel. Once the Lightfather has been restored, once his safety is procured, then we shall resume our duties alongside the soldiery, if such be his wish."
Kereina's reasoning was circular and laden with contradiction. On the one hand, she proclaimed fear of Godiian action against Randle, yet on the other, she dismissed concerns that Godii would make any bold moves against Siguard. Thankfully, Lendora was not the only one to notice this. "Your reasoning is unsound, sister." Ah, Dia, sweet little Dia. Very little in the way of nonsense or foolishness made it past her without comment. "Randle's paranoia bids us forsake our duties along the Northern March for fear of attack here deep within the boundaries of Siguard, yet the General's paranoia that enemy spies watch our movements from afar along the border are fancy?"
There was a tense pause before Kereina answered. "Yes Dia, you penetrate to the heart of our danger far better than I myself could have. I thank you." Lendora could just see her condescending nod in her mind. She'd seen it enough in person. "It is not Siguard, nor her armies, that the General moves against. It is the Father of the Krysli himself. Think for a moment, all of you. Why waste time and resources preying upon the common soldiery when it is we who have the power to destroy an entire ballion on a whim? No, if I were General Graeme, I would target the Krysli, or more rightly, he who commands them. The Northern March will be safe enough, so long as the Lightfather persists. Randle fears that Graeme has learned of his identity, perhaps even his location, due to the actions of--"
Kereina's voice trailed off. Kereina's voice never trailed off; she was far too proper and important to let her words merely fade. There was a sound of some commotion, of seats being scooted across the floor. "Pray continue, Kereina. You were about to speak of how my actions have put Randle in danger?" Lida!
What was Lida doing here, now? The councilor did not leave any of them wondering for long. She'd always had a way of getting to the point with little waste of words. "The rest of the household is gathered in the courtyard. We would be honored if you would join us. We are having a meeting of the full order."
Kereina snorted. "That cannot be! The Two Sisters--"
"Await you as well, Kereina. For the first time in over seven summers, the entire Order of the Krysli is assembled." Lida sighed. "Or will be, once you seven join us."
Kereina was loth to give up control. "On whose authority do you call such a meeting, Councilor? And have you been away for so long, to forget all reckoning of numbers? There are but six of us in this room."
Lendora knew what was coming. Very well. Though she respected Kereina's power, she had learned little respect for her powers of reasoning. She opened the door and entered the room to see the senior Krysli still frozen in position, some standing, some yet sitting, while Kereina matched her will against the newcomer who stood in the far doorway. Lida acknowledged Lendora's entrance with a wry grin and nodded. "I count seven, Kereina."
Lendora felt the full weight of Kereina's contempt bearing down upon her as she circled the table, coming quite near to its source as she passed, close enough to hear her mutter, "Spies indeed." If Lida did not win the day, there would be repercussions. Ah, well. Let it be so, then. Lendora stood next to Lida and acknowledged her as they both faced Kereina's counsel.
"Greetings, First Krysli. It is well that you have come."
"Thank you, Lendora. Now, let all thought of reprimand pass, and let the Krysli come to order." Lida was waiting for Kereina's surrender. She did not have to wait long. Dia, then Girinne, then the others rose and left their seats. Kereina played her last card.
"What of the Lightfather and his safety?"
Lida laughed as she turned to lead the way from the room. "If you worry for his safety, you should join him in the courtyard where he also waits for you, High Krysli." Lendora stifled a giggle at this parting shot. Kereina could fashion titles for herself all she liked, but Lida Vianna would always be the First Krysli.
----------
Rane Jevers was in remarkably good humor. As Market Day drew to a close, as his sons and the sons of countless other merchants here in the Square prepared to break down their booths and leave the Market's bustle behind, he smiled at the thought of the light wagon load he would be riding this evening. It had been a good day, his pins and peaches selling well despite the lateness of the year. He was just preparing to close his cashbox, already looking forward to counting its contents on the way home, when a man approached his booth.
Not just any man. Rane had been there, along with most of Siguard City, when this man risen on a column of white fire and made speech in this very square nearly a moon ago. This was the so-called Father of the Krysli who stood before him now.
"You sell peaches? I wish to buy peaches, sir." His accent was strange, less strange today in person than on that day of the celebration from afar. Rane wondered if he had any idea how much speculation had passed, both within Rane's own family and between other merchants and citizens of the citadel in the wake of the announcement. Now that he was but an arm's length away, Rane could clearly see that indeed, this Father was scarcely any older than the great Lida Vianna herself. He did not dress as a Magician, and as Rane and several others had noted, everyone knew the Savior of Siguard had to be a Magician. Who else could account for the majesty and power of the Krysli? Indeed, there were some who spoke of a ruse, who suggested that their government sought to mislead their people by presenting a charlatan in place of the real Father. For his part, Rane was simply unsure, and nothing more.
"Surely, honored sir. I offer the finest fruits on this side of the Square or any other, all at a very fair price. Might I interest you in a basket of fresh pins? They are likely the last batch of the season, and the flavor will--" And just like that, Rane was no longer unsure. Two men in black leathern armor were approaching. Godiians! Armed and unashamed, here in the very heart of the Square, under the shadow of the Tower of the Triad?
"Lightfather! Attend!" Tristar turned and followed Rane's warning finger. Then he turned back around with a shrug.
"Thank you, sir, but really, just the peaches will suffice." He reached into the pocket of his black trousers. "How much for--"
Rane had never really considered himself a brave man. He was a farmer and a merchant, and enjoyed a modest life of hard work and fair reward. He'd never listed, was not a member of the militia, indeed, he had never borne a weapon of note his entire forty summers, yet now found himself leaping over the table and charging the approaching threat with his paring knife.
Such swift motion jarred the milling crowd, still thick along the lane even as the end of the Market approached. Screams and cries of alarm went up all around Rane at the sight of Godiians in their midst. They were close now, but whatever reaction the sight of a charging merchant and his paring knife might cause was lost behind their cold, black masks. Rane found himself asking, what am I doing? Why, he was protecting the Father of the Krysli! Damn these Godiians! They'd soon learn to think twice before marching into--
One of the Godiians flicked his wrist and his blade descended with a snap. That was one moment. In the next, Rane was gasping in the dirt, his ears ringing as he rolled around to get his bearings. The Godiians were now accosting the Lightfather with pointed blades before Rane's booth. This Tristar was grinning and trying to... was he trying to shake their hands? What madness was this? Rane's eyes quickly swept the front of his booth. He saw no sign of his two sons. Good. Smart young lads, they'd hidden themselves away.
Rane's heart leapt into his throat. Somebody in the crowd screamed even as a Godiian blade swept forward to claim the Savior of Siguard's neck!
----------
Lendora massaged her neck, tired as she was of feeling Kereina's sharp eyes upon it. They were all assembled now. Lida herself had brought forth a chair from the mansion so that Randle could be seated in the center of the circle. She might have ordered another to fetch one for her--Kereina and many others here might have--but this was Lida, and she had that straightforward manner of hers. Jenri and Rene helped the Lightfather to his seat, where he continued to gaze and mutter as if he were still in his private chamber. Lendora shook her head at the sight. Many around the circle were likewise amazed. Despite the efforts of the High Krysli, within ten minutes of her arrival here, Lida had revealed Randle's madness to all, unblinking and deranged in the dappled sunlight of the courtyard.
Lida took position at his side, dismissing the other two Krysli to stand in ranks and slowly turning to face them all as she spoke. "Are there any here who now dispute our Lightfather's madness? Though some might wish to hide it away, I will not let it be so. All of you have a right to know the true nature of our current straits. Step forward now and speak if any doubts remain. Randle is touched and no longer fit to command!"
There were a few gasps as Kereina stepped forward, but not too many. Lendora certainly expected this. "By whose authority is this meeting called, if the master is truly of unsound mind? Yours, councilor?"
"You know quite well, Kereina. Mine indeed." Lida swept an arm about the circle without ever taking her eyes off of her challenger. "Does any other question the authority of the First Krysli, or does Kereina stand alone?"
Murmurs dotted the circle, feet shuffled in a few places, but none other shared Kereina's audacity. The second Krysli snorted. "None other need question it. You left the order long ago, and therefore have no authority here. We, the loyal, the faithful, we shall tend to our own. Your insolence and presumptions are far better suited for the Lower Council's chambers than for the Order from which you were cast!"
"I left of my own choosing, Kereina." Lida gestured at her arms and legs. "I retain my Karon Ral and never surrendered my power. In such a time of crisis as this, I intend to make it clear that come the press, neither did I surrender my authority. I ask again, do you challenge this authority?"
Kereina feigned indifference. She was fooling no one. "I scarcely recognize it. None here do. You have been absent far too long to merely walk in at your leisure and issue forth decrees. Such authority rests with the Lightfather and his appointed alone."
Lendora thought that the councilor looked tired, even as she turned her back on Kereina's challenge. She met Lendora's gaze for a moment with a small smile, then swept back around. "Is there any other here who can summon forth the blue skies of peace to stretch horizon to horizon, alone and unaided?"
There were several more gasps as another Krysli stepped forward. Lirra, the elder of the Two Sisters, spoke to her former counterparts for the first time in many summers. "I could. So might my sister. It is not such an impossible feat."
Lida smiled and acknowledged Lirra. Few in the circle doubted her claim. Lirra's command of the Secret Fire was widely accepted among the Krysli as all but absolute.
"And I'll wager I can relieve myself farther than you can!" Dia erupted from the circle, only a few paces to Lendora's left, in animated mockery of young men and their endless competition. In bawdy display she was pretending to relieve herself all about like a drunken soldier. Tension released as laughter swept its way around the circle.
Even Lida laughed at this. Kereina sneered. Only Lirra remained unmoved, waiting for Dia's exaggerated gyrations to cease. "Dia, this is serious business. You, and any who find humor in this debate, may of course leave the circle." She gestured towards her sister. "We did not fly hundreds of leagues to be mocked by the likes of you."
The laughter passed and another battle of wills descended upon the circle. Randle continued to sit sprawled in the chair where he had been placed, oblivious. Dia did not step back into line. "Your authority to command is even less certain than Lida's, outcast! Have a care, lest you find your welcome here lost and your long, tiring journey utterly in vain."
Lirra immediately crossed the circle with long, deliberate strides, bearing down upon Dia like an impending storm. One or two gasps were heard, and for her part, little Dia stood her ground, arms planted defiantly on her hips. Only a gentle hand on Lirra's shoulder and a whisper from Lida saved the gathering from dissolving into chaos and dispute. Lirra paused in the middle now, next to Lida, answering Lida's hushed voice with her own. Her eyes continued to bear down on Dia with fury only scarcely held in check.
"Know this, flitting little butterflies! The enemy is real, his intent, sure." Dia slowly stepped back to her place as Lirra slowly advanced once more. Only then did she turn. "And should the hammer fall, it will not miss its mark. We are all that stands between the hammer and the citadel. Shirk your responsibility to your nation at the peril of your families. The First has returned, and none of you," here her daunting gaze fell upon Kereina, "not one has the authority to gainsay her wisdom. Randle is a fool." She approached the master slouched in his chair and kicked one leg. Now several gasps crept about the circle. Such open disrespect for Randle had not been seen in a long while. In fact, not since the Two Sisters had taken their leave seven summers past. "Any who would continue to follow a madman into folly are even more the fools. Attend to Lida Vianna!" She now approached her senior, the Second, Kereina with that same deliberate stride. "And get yourself back into line at once!"
There was no sound save a short moan from Randle, still blinking without comprehension, as the Second and now returned Third Krysli stood frozen an arm's length apart. Kereina took a step backwards despite herself. Realizing such a retreat was costing her much in the eyes of her juniors, she swept around, presenting her back to Lirra before taking her place in the circle, the remants of her sneer still penetrating her assumed air of acquiescence. "Are you quite finished, former Krysli?"
LIda began to speak. "Lirra, I don't--"
Lirra waved her silent. "Not just yet." Without gesture or word, Cori now stood at her sister's side. "Kereina, for seeking to openly defy the Krysli's charge to defend Siguard and the Five Nations, you are hereby relieved of your station." She turned and flicked her wrist twice. "Girinne, Dia! Come forth and escort the former Second to her chambers, where she shall remain until it pleases me to grant her release." Bearing down upon Kereina once more, she made a demand that had never been voiced in the history of the Order. Randle himself had made no such request upon the departure of Lida, nor the Two Sisters shortly thereafter. Holding out a hand full of portent, she smiled dourly. "Surrender your Karon Ral, little woman."
The Order burst into chatter and exclamation despite the gravity of the moment. Even Lendora was shocked to hear such a command. Lida was hard-pressed to wave the circle back to silence. All eyes were on Kereina and her response. Though three had indeed left the Order, no Krysli had ever been stripped of their power. Lirra clearly sought the full humiliation of the Second, making such a demand in full view of her peers.
Slowly, and with bile spewing forth from her every movement, Kereina loosened the ornate Karon Ral from her forearms and then bent to unwrap those about her shins. Nobody spoke as the bracers fell lifeless to the ground at her feet. Now she was simply a woman, a Krysli no more. Her humiliation was complete. Dia, all thoughts of jest and defiance long departed from her expression, stood at the ready, as did Girinne. Lirra simply pointed at the mansion. "Go."
Escorted ironically by two of her own "High Krysli"--no accident that, given Lirra's ferocity, Lendora was sure--Kereina snarled and said no more, spinning on her heel and leaving the circle. Cori fetched her Karon Ral where they lay and presented them to Lida. Lida shook her had sadly.
"I wish it would not have to come to this. That was harsh medicine, dispensed without proper counsel, Lirra."
Lirra simply shrugged. "She's had that coming for a long while." At last she smiled, and beckoned her sister to join her back in the circle. The Krysli on either side shuffled sideways to allow the Two Sisters ample space. "Pray, continue, First Krysli."
----------
A Godiian blade clove the chill late afternoon air of the Market Square and naught else. The Savior's neck simply was not there anymore. With a grin most out of place, he now hunched low and hurled himself with outstretched arms to grapple with both of his attackers at once. The trio landed roughly in the dirt. Godiian curses accompanied flailing limbs as the assassins tried to gain hold upon their target. Impossibly, thought Rane, he was no longer there, but now stood at the ready several paces hence, returned almost fully to the front of Rane's booth. He was smiling and bright-eyed. Surely no common man could have moved with such blinding speed. The Godiians struggled with much clatter on the flagged stone to regain their footing. Rane quickly decided he would not allow it. He was not alone as several merchants and bystanders fell upon the Godiians in a pile of indignation. Within minutes, both would be assassins were disarmed and bound face down in the street. Rane sent one of his boys after the thors and then tended to Tristar.
"Sir, forgive my errant blow. I sought to spare you such base handling by the likes of these."
The Father of the Krysli--for what else could he be?--grinned and patted Rane's shoulder. "It was kind of you, but completely unnecessary. I have withstood their attacks before. Ever they seek to keep me on my feet and at the ready. It is quite a game!"
"Sir, you might have been injured. Who then would look after your Krysli?"
Tristar appeared unconcerned. "Oh, somebody would look in on them after a while. Probably the Princess."
Rane thought him touched for a moment, uttering such nonsense. Then he remembered that this was a Magician, despite his strange garb, and therefore likely to speak in phrases beyond the understanding of common folk. Such was the way with wise men, or so he had been taught. "Princess. Right. She's your favorite, isn't she? The first, the councilor?"
Tristar appeared to notice Rane for the first time, taking him in with strange, deep-set eyes. "You know her? Ah, yes. She is quite a remarkable person!"
The Savior's smile was infectious. With the assassins only just subdued less than ten paces away, Rane found himself mirroring Tristar's wide grin. "Indeed she is, sir! The finest of the Krysli, and the noblest of coucilors! Why, she has the full trust and support of all good Siguardians, sir!"
"Ah, that thought makes me happy." The Savior was looking about for his basket of fruit. Rane added several of his most choice peaches and pins until it nearly ran over and waved away the offered coins.
"No, Sir Tristar. My goods are free of charge for one to whom we all owe such a debt of gratitude. I pray, please stop by my booth any Market Day you please, and I will see that you enjoy the finest fruit in all the Northlands!"
The crowd was beginning to thicken around the Savior of Siguard. Everyone wanted to touch and speak to this newly-revealed father figure, he who had brought them the Krysli, he who ensured the peace and kept General Graeme at bay. Few even took note when the thors finally arrived and took the Godiian assailants away, presumably for questioning. But the Father of the Krysli had sharp eyes.
"Ho there, good soldier of Siguard! Have a care with that one!" Tristar pointed to one of the Godiian assassins. "I fear his right leg took injury upon our fall. Tend to him well, he is surely in pain!"
Rane smiled. What manner of hero this, to think upon the health of men who just moments before had tried to steal his own life away? An exceptional man, this Tristar, this Magician, this Savior of Siguard. He would be sure and tell his wife and friends--especially old Tobir at the keep--about his adventure today, and his own brush with greatness.
----------
It was late, and Lendora's mouth was dry. There had been so much talking on this strange day, and the relin in her glass did little to slake her thirst. But at least it helped keep her calm. She considered the councilor's question thoughtfully, allowing herself more time than needed to answer. The implications of this request...
"You realize it would be difficult for me, Lida. I can think of at least nine who might resent any such borrowed authority resting in my lap and not theirs." She drained her cup and reached for the decanter between them. Even the tiniest noises reverberated with exaggerated portent here in the large dining hall.
Lida's glass remained untouched. "I need someone I can trust. You are my closest friend in all the order. Did I not recommend you to Randle himself? Now I choose you once more. I call you to a higher service once again."
Lendora let a sour smile pass her face. "Fine and well enough for you. You will not be here come the morning. There will be a reckoning, and heated debate."
Lida sighed and Lendora realized for the first time that the councilor was weary. Her eyes were heavy, and rested long once settled on their target. Currently they rested on the full glass before her. "I will speak to each of the senior Krysli before leaving tonight. Yes, even Kereina, though I expect little sympathy from her after Lirra's... actions." She looked at Lendora with a pale smile. "They will abide by my decision, my appointment of you as my surrogate, else I shall not leave."
Lendora dropped her own eyes. "Well, at least with patrols resumed, I shall have less to contend with. It is good that you sent Melva and Telerrin out with the first flight. They would be... will be difficult. It will be easier for the next few days without their loyalties to Kereina getting in the way."
The hall loomed large and dark about them during the silence that followed. It was not a room meant for two. The light was dim, but not so dim that Lendora missed a glimpse of the First Krysli biting her lip, deep in thought. Did she worry yet on Lendora's account, or struggle with the harsh decisions made this day, or were there other matters, Council matters, weighing now upon her?
"Lendora, if you sense anything amiss, call upon me at once. Should Randle suddenly wax lucid, I need to know. His actions would be unpredictable, and the patrols must continue. Did you attend to Lirra's account before she left? From their vantage point in far away Ratan, so close to the enemy, the Sisters see much that disturbs them. Godii is moving." Lida sighed again. "Until certain matters are cleared up in the Council, we Krysli are all that can assure Graeme's movements remain within Graeme's lands."
Lendora let that last sentence hover between them for a time. She was tired. The relin wasn't helping her there. "I wonder, do we give General Ward's army short shrift with the constant, unspoken insistence that they could not defend our lands without our aid?"
"I would fairly say that one Siguardian soldier is worth any two Godii might throw at them. Yet by all estimates, Handa is outnumbered three to one. Valor and skill alone cannot stave off Graeme's will, should he truly be bent on invasion."
Remembering Kereina's words earlier that evening, Lendora was surprised to find herself echoing them. "Are you certain he is so bent?"
"He is certainly bent on something. The Council has their work cut out for them, sorting through recent events."
"Perhaps he is just bent."
It took a moment for the humor to make its way into the room and descend upon her, but it was quite rewarding to hear the First Krysli smile and finally laugh, if only for a moment, if only with eyes still downcast. Lendora's father had always said that laughter will save us all. Of course, her father would now call her a whore, if he knew--
"Perhaps, Lendora. Perhaps." Lida finally took a drink of her relin, smiling over the glass at Lendora.
"What has become of the Wonderer?"
Lida set her glass down, still smiling. "Tristar? Why, he is the Father of the Krysli, to the public eye at any rate. I keep him with me to safeguard him. I put him at a terrible risk, and will soon have to answer to that, among other things, back in the citadel."
The mesmerizing swirl of relin as she gently stirred it with one finger could not keep Lendora's eyes down, nor her question long at bay. "He stays with you, then?"
"Lendora, you--"
"You come in here and ask much of me, Lida. You have asked much of me for some time, since before the anniversary celebration, where we first defied Randle's will." Lendora was standing now, arms planted heavily on the wide table between them. "You had the finest soldier, the great hero Garth Vencher upon your arm when last you left me here, and now he is scarcely cold and you would seem to have Tristar fast upon the other. What manner of woman are you?"
Lida was perhaps too tired to be taken aback, but at least her eyes sprang to life. "What is this? An accusation?"
"You take the best for yourself and leave little for your friends, such as they may be, Lida. Garth was perhaps only a dream, but Tristar, the Wonderer--he was dear to me. We spent much time together here before bringing him to the citadel, to you." Her arms were trembling. She took her relin and drained it once more, setting it down with a slam that echoed loudly in her ears. "I taught him many things. Many things he has no doubt unlearned under your tutelage. It is unfair, that you should gather such men in rapid succession t yourself. It is unfair that you should steal my hope for the Wonderer from me."
"Lendora, I have no designs on Tristar."
"You're lying. He is fascinating, this stranger, and you know it."
"He is, and yet, I have no designs upon him." Lida rose and reached far across the table to pat Lendora's hand. "Rest easy, dear friend. Your Tristar would have none of me."
Lendora blinked. Could it be true? She retook her seat, abashed. "My apologies, Lida. I spoke ill and out of turn. I shared more of my emotions, scarcely perceived by their owner, than I should have." She looked up to see Lida smiling down upon her. "Think well of me, Lida."
"How could I think otherwise? You are dear to me, Lendora." Lida now took her leave of the table. "I must now go and wrestle these High Krysli into line. Lirra has not made the task any easier for me."
Lendora turned in her chair. "I know... to take the Karon Ral... it is unheard of, such a harsh judgement."
Lida shrugged as she crossed the hall. "Such is Lirra's way, and I did call her here. She came only as a favor to me, perhaps her last. I will take responsibility, and do what I can to mend the damage done. Fear not! I shall speak with you again before leaving, and shall not leave until I am satisfied that the Order sees reason."
Lendora waved and smiled to herself, savoring the irony. After all these years serving the Fire, living in such proximity to the Burning, had they finally seen the light?
----------
Gal Burlo shook off the drudgery of the early morning shift at once and stood at attention. "Councilor! We are honored by your visit! How can I be of service?" But before she replied, another figure came through the door and entered the station. The General Enderin herself! "Madame General! H-how are you this evening?"
General Ward looked quite tired, but her eyes remained as daunting as ever. "It is morning, and the hour is far too late for an old woman's liking. Tell me, officer, is Thor Keller still on duty?"
Gal nodded. "Indeed, General, she has remained on duty far past her due." He motioned towards the far door. "She yet watches over the Godiian assassins we apprehended today."
The Councilor spoke with a heavy voice. "Take us to her, Thor."
Gal fairly jogged to the door to hold it open for his unexpected, esteemed visitors. "They have not spoken a word, nor even removed their helms. Thor Keller saw fit to allow them their preference."
The General fixed him with those eyes of hers as she passed. "You have not spoken with them?"
"No madame, nor any other save perhaps Keller, that I can discern. Is this... well?"
The General smiled as she followed the councilor through the door. "Quite well, good thor. We will be taking these prisoners for special interrogation. You will make note of this and ask not a question more. This is a matter of great national security, and your discretion is essential. Your superiors have already been advised. There is no need to spare another thought on these Godiians' account." Her smile departed as she passed through the door. "Do I make myself clear, thor?"
Gal stood at attention once again. "Absolutely, Madame General."
The General's eyes twinkled as she closed the door behind her. "Good."
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