Chapter Seven:
Murmurs of Destruction
The late morning of the second day since the ruins found all three on the soil of Parcelyte Kingdom. This kingdom was surely in juxtaposition of Alunze. Largely because there were no large events occurring such as a Prince's Crowning, but also in part to a wholly different attitude of its king and inhabitants.
Parcelyte and its King were not caught up by money (too much, that is). Its buildings were not as elaborate as those in its neighboring kingdom to the southwest. Its whole appearance of structure and population caused Maxim to consider it as: "How I imagine a kingdom of old would be. You know, those that are spoken of in tales, only more plain and more real."
As they entered the human landscape, a tremendous church dominated their view, channeling all attention toward itself, supposedly to turn that attention to something higher than humanity. It was a magnificent architectural display of spires, arches, windows, and vaulted ceilings that played in harmony as well as the organ pipes that boomed from within its sanctuary.
Yet this was no match for the nature that surrounded. From behind and on both sides rose various, colorful plants of all shapes and sizes. Flowering trees joyfully cast their shade upon the luscious grass. Light breezes would accompany you through the numerous flower gardens that housed the most elegant as well as the most beautifully simple flowers that naturally planted themselves all across the world. Many travelers from distant lands would port in Parcelyte simply for this reason alone. Tia determined that when she had another chance to return here she absolutely would...and as often as possible.
They also passed a few houses that appeared to be for sale. They were quaint and charming, causing Tia to dream of a life that would have led Maxim and herself here under different and more permanent conditions.
Many people strode the pathways around the town and castle. Instead of the yells of vendors and sounds of merriment that had greeted them in Alunze, they were welcomed by the sounds of everyday life—if that life were busy, a bit rushed, and yet nonetheless joyous.
Well, that is until they came upon two boys who appeared to be teasing a girl who soon began to shed tears as younger kids often do at the hands of older fellows. This was broken up by the arrival of a beautiful woman clothed in a dress that housed many colors.
Perhaps it was aided by some shadows around it or some trick of light, but it seemed to shine in slight changes of greens, blues, yellows, and even whites. Dark in some places, lighter in others. It caused the woman to seem dignified, majestic, even splendid, and yet still simple. And her hair seemed to match her garment. It was largely dark blue, but housed highlights of an almost cerulean blue as well as blue-gray.
The little girl who was teased ran into her embrace and there was a very tender feature to the woman's comforting, which Maxim briefly noticed. It was not heard what words she said, but the girl seemed reassured. And soon Maxim, Tia, and Guy continued on their way towards the center of the town surrounding Parcelyte's castle.
Later that day, after lunch, our three travelers made their way into the castle, for no one around town seemed to know any news that was worth knowing. And as was King Airin's custom, they were invited in to meet him, his queen, and their daughter. (He was a much friendlier king than many in the world).
So, introductions were made and the King's ears perked upon hearing the names of Maxim and Tia. "You are the Maxim and Tia who saved the crown and certain public humiliation from King Kesef, are you not?" Princess Cefia wondered. "I have heard of your great deeds and have desired greatly to meet you both. I am honored by your visit.
"We played a part, yes Your Majesty," Maxim responded.
"Nonsense, I don't believe all the reports that the King sends out himself, so I'm sure you played more than just a part," the King cried out. "You probably had everything to do with the crown's recovery if Kesef's soldiers are still as ineptly trained as they always have been. Their commander is skilled in some ways but is not a great strategist, nor fighter and their soldiers suffer for it.
"Luckily, we have the greatest Commander, and therefore Army, of any kingdom on Estpolis. Would you like to see it in action?" King Airin asked the group, as he was already beginning to lead them to their training courtyard. He obviously took great pride and joy in this Commander and his capabilities. Maxim and Guy wondered to themselves if it was well warranted.
The King took them from the Queen and Princess Cefia's presence onto a short tour of his facilities. They wandered through many winding, open corridors until they came upon an open-roofed grass courtyard, all the while listening to King Airin heap praise upon his army and their amazing Commander.
Clangs of weapon against shield and various thuds sounded out from the field as the party approached it. And soon they were able to view each participant, in full attirement, undergoing some sort of training session. This, of course, excited Guy but he did withhold his desire to jump down into the field and take on each knight single-handedly right at that moment.
And then something quite out of the ordinary stole each of their attentions in turn. One knight was defending himself against a superior fighter who actually appeared to be a woman (quite extraordinary in those times). With tremendous grace the attacker's weapon arced brilliantly, twirling in its wielder's right hand before dislodging the defender's own weapon.
Just as gracefully the staff the woman was using found itself in her left hand, which utilized it to sweep the knight off of his feet. The fluid motion ended with the female fighter in a defensive position over her opponent.
Once the King noticed the object of his guest's gazes, he began speaking again, always relishing this part of his day. "That, Maxim, Tia, and Sir Guy, is the greatest Commander you will ever see. Her name is Selan," and then the King waited, relishing their silence, which he rightly took as awe at her skills. "Yes, a woman as a Commander. Plus she is only twenty years old. I could go on." King Airin was smiling broadly now.
Perhaps you are shocked at this as well, but I do not know what sort of Kingdom you come from. In that age of Mada Eve this was a rarity, indeed, both in age and gender. King Kesef would never even think of placing a woman in charge of the Kingdom's troops and neither would other kings of the land. Most would not even allow women soldiers.
Those who have not seen Selan in battle would make fun of such an arrangement, but those who have seen her in action would show her great respect, and kneel under her brave command of skill and knowledge.
Having displaced the knight-in-training from his feet, Selan now turned to critique his performance. "Is that all you can do, soldier," she yelled forcefully. "Will that amount of effort protect our Castle and King, Keean?"
"Forgive me, Commander!" the soldier said as he stood up, but lowered his gaze.
And then Selan softened a bit, "You are improving, Keean, but your effort must improve. I can see great potential there if you only work harder at it. Each of you, as well," she said as she turned to face the bulk of assembled men and even a few women. Then she dismissed them for the day, as they seemed joyful and encouraged. "I'll be in my quarters should any of you request anything of me."
As the knights-in-training moved into the closest building Selan lingered. The King called out to her, summoning her to join him and their latest guests to which she promptly did. She had taken off a portion of armor and began moving (almost gliding it seemed) towards them.
King Airin moved forward to meet her away from their guests, as she reached their level, which gave the three a very quick window to speak amongst themselves.
"She's pretty good, huh, Maxim?" Guy whispered.
"Yeah...I guess she is," Maxim answered, but not all that quickly.
"Her skill is one thing, but also the way she looks," Guy continued. "Whew! You don't see such a pretty woman very often. And I've never seen one stronger."
"I guess not," Maxim answered back again, continuing to steal looks back towards Selan's direction.
Tia was a little annoyed by this interchange and humphed, "Men! One look at a pretty face and you're all jellied! And what's Jessy going to think, Guy?"
As cool and calm as ever Guy said, "Hold on a minute, Tia, don't be so cruel. You know I think you're much prettier," and he winked at Maxim.
This did not allay Tia's annoyance, but Maxim, not quite suppressing a smile, interjected, "Come on, Tia, you know Guy's just kidding."
"Your reaction wasn't any better, Maxim. Don't think I don't notice where your eyes keep returning."
Now looking wholly at Tia, Maxim denied the depth of her accusations saying he simply continued to look over at Selan and the King because he was curious about their conversation. Tia did not seem to buy it, but was interrupted from any further bickering by King Airin's stately voice.
"This is Selan, Commander of the Parcelyte Army. And Selan, this is Sir Guy of Tanbel, under the services of King Kesef. To his left are Maxim and Tia, both of Elcid. You have heard their name recently in connection with Prince Kese's crown. An entertaining story...although not as entertaining for me as it would have been if the thieves had gotten away with their acquisition." The king laughed heartily again and the four others exchanged bows and curtseys.
As Selan rose from her curtsey and stepped closer to our group, Maxim noticed that she was the woman they had passed upon entering the city, who comforted the little girl. She had seemed so tender there, yet fierce during the training of her soldiers just now. And here before him was mixed equal attributes of beauty, strength, grace, compassion, and toughness. It all took him by surprise.
"A pleasure to meet you Sir Guy of Tanbel, Maxim, and Lady Tia. I hope your travels have been enjoyable. I am hardly presentable to such honored guests so if you will kindly excuse me, I must freshen up. Perhaps I shall see you all at dinner tonight?" she offered in a light voice looking on neither member longer than another. And on that she excused herself, leaving Maxim and his friends again with the King.
The King now led the three foreigners into enclosed portions of his castle. Arches and other curved shapes were prominent throughout the castle's architecture, usually arrayed in deep, dark tones and shades. It did not contain the riches that the Alunze Castle had poured into it, but Maxim and Tia liked the feel of this one better. Paintings, suits of armor, and various similar items lined King Airin's hallways, just as they did Kesef's, only they were not equal in quantity or worth. It provided the King with simpler, yet an even more regal appeal than King Kesef controlled.
Once the tour was completed they had an attendant named Zepel show them to the guest quarters, extending every courtesy Maxim, Tia, and Guy could think of, as well as many they could not.
Much of the rest of the day was spent meeting various people who graced the castle property as well as the townsfolk. Everywhere they went Lady Selan (as many referred to her, for Selan did not particularly like to be called Commander outside of her training and the townspeople refused to simply call her Selan) was highly spoken of for beauty, skill, and mind.
Soon before dinner they had requested another meeting with the King, in hopes of hearing any news that might have sailed into his harbors. Actually the news they sought found them here after crossing over no water.
A man, whom our travelers quickly noticed to be their tour guide, came rushing wildly into the hall, skidding upon the floor as he remembered where he was and saw that the King had guests. He straightened up, but unsteadily bumbled his words before the King. He apologized for his interruption and hurried behavior, but the King dismissed it, urging him to simply spit it out. "We have reason to believe...that the town of Gordovan has been...destroyed, Your Majesty."
"What!?" exclaimed the King in reply, to which the messenger repeated himself less frantically than before.
"Can this be true, Zepel?" the King wondered as he fell back into his seat.
"We cannot confirm the details yet, Your Majesty, but if reports are true a single man appeared and destroyed the entire town!" the soldier said, concern crowding his words.
"A single man! How can a claim such as this be true?" the King wondered. "Send for Commander Selan."
"She has already been summoned, my Lord." As the messenger spoke these words, Selan came striding into the rather open throne room.
"My Lord," she exclaimed as she kneeled before the King, rising at his call. "I overheard the news. Your Majesty, please allow me to find out what happened."
"I admire your heart in this Commander, but we must allow ourselves more time to properly respond. If this is true perhaps we are also vulnerable, so I may need your presence here," the King responded. Perhaps being the youngest Commander of any kingdom's army gave Selan an excuse for her rash decisions, however she always followed them through (allowed by the King) and they always seemed to prove right. But then again it's much more pleasant to remember the good times, forgetting the times one is wrong.
Gordovan was considered a part of King Airin's Kingdom, but was largely independent, even providing their own soldiers for protection. They were not trained under Commander Selan, but under her previous superior, Commander Loagan, who had diminished in favor before King Airin. Little similarity was shared between the two places, much less anything else.
"Allow us to excuse our guests and council together," the King continued. You see, the court of Parcelyte was filled with a lot less bureaucrats and aides than Alunze was, with much of the strategy devised by just King Airin and his Commander, Selan.
Selan acquiesced to the King's decision, but Maxim did not. "Your Majesty, if I may request of you, we would like to speak with you concerning this as well. We are interested in what has happened and perhaps we could join any party you send forth to Gordovan. We could add to your council as well, for this may be the very reason we are traveling."
After some silent thought the King spoke: "Your reputation proceeds you, Maxim, and I have long admired what I have heard of your doings and prowess, Sir Guy. I will allow you to attend our council, but I make no promises regarding your involvement with any plans we decide upon. Very well, what do you propose, Selan?"
"I would only take a small contingent with me, perhaps only three or four, leaving adequate defenses for our city, my Lord," Selan offered in full assurance of her soldier's capabilities.
"Only four of you!" the King said in disbelief. "That would be too dangerous, and something that I could not allow."
"It would strictly be a reconnaissance mission, battle would not be our objective. Three of my soldiers would be capable of such a task, and those left behind would be more than adequate in protecting our land," Selan strongly countered.
After a short silence King Airin said, "I wish I could have have in regards to our troops. Allow me a short time to consider this."
A couple of minutes into this Maxim asked the permission to address the King, which King Airin allowed. "Your majesty, with your permission we could accompany some of your troops upon this journey adding to its strength, while allowing the Commander to stay with your home defenses."
At this the King seemed halfway interested, but Selan quickly shot it down, speaking quite frankly with her King. "I should not stay here, my Lord. You know me too well to settle for that."
"Yes, I do know you well enough for that," the King laughed slightly, "but I will entertain any idea that does not immediately betray foolishness or stupidity. Allow me now to entertain this one."
After more silence the King addressed his Commander again, saying, "I would feel more safe knowing you were here and simply sending a small contingent of ours to check on Gordovan. Yet, I also know you and trust you, Selan. So I will allow you three of your knights."
Then he turned to Maxim and said, "You three, Maxim, Tia, and Sir Guy will be allowed to accompany the group, but details will be known only to Selan and her soldiers. I do not doubt your valor and integrity...and therefore believe you can understand our measures to protect our knights." Maxim knowingly bowed.
"My Lord, my troops and I can handle this mission ourselves," said Selan frankly once again. "We do not need the assistance of these travelers. We can show them the path and they can explore on their own time. I know my troops and what they are capable of, but I don't know these two men and young lady's ability or intentions."
Here Guy poked in boastfully assuring Selan of his own abilities, to which she was not impressed, but it caused the King to smile.
Silencing Guy the King answered, "I know you are strong Selan, yet at times your youth shows through in your rashness. You may need their help, and I doubt you are scared of any harm they could inflict on you and your men. Understand the helpfulness of being aided by others. I will only say it once more: I order you to accompany and protect our guests while investigating Gordovan. Our kingdom does not run low on courtesies."
"But...but Your Majesty..." Selan started before her King interrupted her.
"Do you dare disobey the order of your King, Commander," King Airin said in an authoritative tone.
At this Selan ceased protesting and came to attention before her Lord. "No, Your Majesty. I will accompany our guests to Gordovan and fulfill my mission."
With this the King was done and exited to his chambers, leaving Selan with Parcelyte's three travelers.
Maxim had just seen another picture of this woman, who was just a year younger than he was. Here she was frank and standoff-ish.
Selan took a few steps to address the two Elcid townspeople and Sir Guy of Tanbel. "I do not trust in outsiders when it comes to a mission under my command, with my soldiers. My duty is to my King and my knights first and foremost. That's what you can count on. I suggest that you gather your things together, being ready for whenever we shall leave. The notice will be short."
"At least you are straightforward," Maxim offered, slightly joking, but this was lost on the Commander.
"Believe me, Maxim, I mean no offense, but yes, I do speak my mind.
"Understood, Commander," Maxim said. "I know you don't like this situation you are forced into, but what can we do to gain a little piece of your trust?"
Looking over to Guy, Selan answered, "Strength will not be the answer, I can tell you that." And here Selan excused herself, retiring to her quarters to prepare for Gordovan. She did not completely trust that this was not a trap, but really did not see any evidence or motive for it being one. She would follow her King's command, however, and fully trusted in her knights, and more so her own abilities if it were to come to that.
Staying behind the three foreigners spoke of this different side of the Commander. "She's a tough one," Maxim said.
"Yeah she is," Guy agreed. "She sounds more serious than you, Maxim. But it's good to have both of you on board."
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Later that night, Selan and her three knights were ready to leave, catching our group a little bit by surprise that it was so quick. So they left under the cover of night.
A regal sort of beauty mixed with strength shone from Selan once again and neither Maxim nor Guy overlooked it.
Underneath the dark cloaks one could see that the Parcelyte suit of armour was well polished. Each shoulder plate contained the outline of the Olne, a sea bird that was indigenous to Parcelyte's shores alone, in its natural colors of gray and white.
Each knight of Parcelyte also had a shield made for them containing their family crest. Selan's was a deep, but lighter blue on one half, with white on its opposite side. Amidst the white half three lions of the same blue color stood one above the other.
Guy, too, was dressed with the armour of a Knight of Alunze. As you may remember show is everything with Alunze. His suit, although beaten up in a few places, would probably cost twice as much as Selan's would have. Golden yellow trimmed the shining suit of silver plates locked one upon the other. As an emblem the breastplate housed a black and yellow lotus flower, which was the most cherished of flowers in the kingdom. Below this a ribbon flowed containing the Kingdom's motto, "For King and Country."
Guy's shield was of the same make and colors, with a golden castle (a replication of the Alunze Castle) centered upon it. Crossing this were two long-handled axes, which Guy was particularly proud of. The motto ran underneath this as well.
Of course, had this been worn solely for ceremony his outfit would have changed quite a bit and would have been much less practical for hand- to-hand combat.
The city of Gordovan lay about three days travel to the west, with a slight drag to the south, which gave Maxim and company plenty of time to get to know Selan and her company, even if it was awkward at first. Both companies mainly kept to themselves the first half of the trip, but slowly the distrust was lessening between the two sides.
During the second day of travel Maxim was even able to hold a sustained conversation with Selan. Here, he was able to return (a little bit, at least) to the human, delicate picture that he first saw of the commander before him.
She briefly spoke of her Aunt Tajel without even recognizing it, only to close up once again on her personal life, still not fully trusting her unfamiliar companions. Still, Maxim had time to learn that she was orphaned by the death of her parents at an even younger age than he had been. Aunt Tajel had raised her into the woman she was now.
Maxim refused the urge within himself to tell her about the deaths of his parents, stealing away an opportunity to bridge their relationship, if only slightly. His thought turned towards his own hurt and then he became silent, as the seven continued riding along their steeds.
Selan came alongside Maxim and his horse once again. "There is one thing I don't understand, Maxim. Why are you doing this? Your land is far away. What concerns do you have with Parcelyte and Gordovan?"
Maxim broke from his memories and thought upon her question, considering how best to answer it. "I have a mission of my own, Commander. I need to know about this Destroyer, if he exists."
"How do you know this Destroyer is a he?" asked Selan, taking offense at his assumptions.
"Habit, Commander, not the sexism you imply. And if I find out that he...or she...exists, I will have to act accordingly." Maxim was being as succinct and nice as possible, in spite of Selan's distrust in him.
After more silence in which Selan accepted Maxim was going to have tight lips, she spoke, saying, "I see. I've been in the midst of battles since I was a child. I understand you to be a fighter as well. Trust between fighters must be earned, however, and I am sorry if I move slowly in that department. It is necessary for a Commander and her troops, you see." Selan's tone was very pleasant and she seemed sincere in her speech.
Maxim was surprised at this, for she had not shown much open honesty during his travels with her. Perhaps she was beginning to trust them. This made the second half of the trip more bearable.
So in the evening on the third day of their mission Commander Selan and her three knights, together with Maxim, Sir Guy, and Lady Tia made it to the city of Gordovan. Or at least what was left of it. The sight was hard for any member to talk about. But what happened after they arrived was never forgotten by any of them.
Murmurs of Destruction
The late morning of the second day since the ruins found all three on the soil of Parcelyte Kingdom. This kingdom was surely in juxtaposition of Alunze. Largely because there were no large events occurring such as a Prince's Crowning, but also in part to a wholly different attitude of its king and inhabitants.
Parcelyte and its King were not caught up by money (too much, that is). Its buildings were not as elaborate as those in its neighboring kingdom to the southwest. Its whole appearance of structure and population caused Maxim to consider it as: "How I imagine a kingdom of old would be. You know, those that are spoken of in tales, only more plain and more real."
As they entered the human landscape, a tremendous church dominated their view, channeling all attention toward itself, supposedly to turn that attention to something higher than humanity. It was a magnificent architectural display of spires, arches, windows, and vaulted ceilings that played in harmony as well as the organ pipes that boomed from within its sanctuary.
Yet this was no match for the nature that surrounded. From behind and on both sides rose various, colorful plants of all shapes and sizes. Flowering trees joyfully cast their shade upon the luscious grass. Light breezes would accompany you through the numerous flower gardens that housed the most elegant as well as the most beautifully simple flowers that naturally planted themselves all across the world. Many travelers from distant lands would port in Parcelyte simply for this reason alone. Tia determined that when she had another chance to return here she absolutely would...and as often as possible.
They also passed a few houses that appeared to be for sale. They were quaint and charming, causing Tia to dream of a life that would have led Maxim and herself here under different and more permanent conditions.
Many people strode the pathways around the town and castle. Instead of the yells of vendors and sounds of merriment that had greeted them in Alunze, they were welcomed by the sounds of everyday life—if that life were busy, a bit rushed, and yet nonetheless joyous.
Well, that is until they came upon two boys who appeared to be teasing a girl who soon began to shed tears as younger kids often do at the hands of older fellows. This was broken up by the arrival of a beautiful woman clothed in a dress that housed many colors.
Perhaps it was aided by some shadows around it or some trick of light, but it seemed to shine in slight changes of greens, blues, yellows, and even whites. Dark in some places, lighter in others. It caused the woman to seem dignified, majestic, even splendid, and yet still simple. And her hair seemed to match her garment. It was largely dark blue, but housed highlights of an almost cerulean blue as well as blue-gray.
The little girl who was teased ran into her embrace and there was a very tender feature to the woman's comforting, which Maxim briefly noticed. It was not heard what words she said, but the girl seemed reassured. And soon Maxim, Tia, and Guy continued on their way towards the center of the town surrounding Parcelyte's castle.
Later that day, after lunch, our three travelers made their way into the castle, for no one around town seemed to know any news that was worth knowing. And as was King Airin's custom, they were invited in to meet him, his queen, and their daughter. (He was a much friendlier king than many in the world).
So, introductions were made and the King's ears perked upon hearing the names of Maxim and Tia. "You are the Maxim and Tia who saved the crown and certain public humiliation from King Kesef, are you not?" Princess Cefia wondered. "I have heard of your great deeds and have desired greatly to meet you both. I am honored by your visit.
"We played a part, yes Your Majesty," Maxim responded.
"Nonsense, I don't believe all the reports that the King sends out himself, so I'm sure you played more than just a part," the King cried out. "You probably had everything to do with the crown's recovery if Kesef's soldiers are still as ineptly trained as they always have been. Their commander is skilled in some ways but is not a great strategist, nor fighter and their soldiers suffer for it.
"Luckily, we have the greatest Commander, and therefore Army, of any kingdom on Estpolis. Would you like to see it in action?" King Airin asked the group, as he was already beginning to lead them to their training courtyard. He obviously took great pride and joy in this Commander and his capabilities. Maxim and Guy wondered to themselves if it was well warranted.
The King took them from the Queen and Princess Cefia's presence onto a short tour of his facilities. They wandered through many winding, open corridors until they came upon an open-roofed grass courtyard, all the while listening to King Airin heap praise upon his army and their amazing Commander.
Clangs of weapon against shield and various thuds sounded out from the field as the party approached it. And soon they were able to view each participant, in full attirement, undergoing some sort of training session. This, of course, excited Guy but he did withhold his desire to jump down into the field and take on each knight single-handedly right at that moment.
And then something quite out of the ordinary stole each of their attentions in turn. One knight was defending himself against a superior fighter who actually appeared to be a woman (quite extraordinary in those times). With tremendous grace the attacker's weapon arced brilliantly, twirling in its wielder's right hand before dislodging the defender's own weapon.
Just as gracefully the staff the woman was using found itself in her left hand, which utilized it to sweep the knight off of his feet. The fluid motion ended with the female fighter in a defensive position over her opponent.
Once the King noticed the object of his guest's gazes, he began speaking again, always relishing this part of his day. "That, Maxim, Tia, and Sir Guy, is the greatest Commander you will ever see. Her name is Selan," and then the King waited, relishing their silence, which he rightly took as awe at her skills. "Yes, a woman as a Commander. Plus she is only twenty years old. I could go on." King Airin was smiling broadly now.
Perhaps you are shocked at this as well, but I do not know what sort of Kingdom you come from. In that age of Mada Eve this was a rarity, indeed, both in age and gender. King Kesef would never even think of placing a woman in charge of the Kingdom's troops and neither would other kings of the land. Most would not even allow women soldiers.
Those who have not seen Selan in battle would make fun of such an arrangement, but those who have seen her in action would show her great respect, and kneel under her brave command of skill and knowledge.
Having displaced the knight-in-training from his feet, Selan now turned to critique his performance. "Is that all you can do, soldier," she yelled forcefully. "Will that amount of effort protect our Castle and King, Keean?"
"Forgive me, Commander!" the soldier said as he stood up, but lowered his gaze.
And then Selan softened a bit, "You are improving, Keean, but your effort must improve. I can see great potential there if you only work harder at it. Each of you, as well," she said as she turned to face the bulk of assembled men and even a few women. Then she dismissed them for the day, as they seemed joyful and encouraged. "I'll be in my quarters should any of you request anything of me."
As the knights-in-training moved into the closest building Selan lingered. The King called out to her, summoning her to join him and their latest guests to which she promptly did. She had taken off a portion of armor and began moving (almost gliding it seemed) towards them.
King Airin moved forward to meet her away from their guests, as she reached their level, which gave the three a very quick window to speak amongst themselves.
"She's pretty good, huh, Maxim?" Guy whispered.
"Yeah...I guess she is," Maxim answered, but not all that quickly.
"Her skill is one thing, but also the way she looks," Guy continued. "Whew! You don't see such a pretty woman very often. And I've never seen one stronger."
"I guess not," Maxim answered back again, continuing to steal looks back towards Selan's direction.
Tia was a little annoyed by this interchange and humphed, "Men! One look at a pretty face and you're all jellied! And what's Jessy going to think, Guy?"
As cool and calm as ever Guy said, "Hold on a minute, Tia, don't be so cruel. You know I think you're much prettier," and he winked at Maxim.
This did not allay Tia's annoyance, but Maxim, not quite suppressing a smile, interjected, "Come on, Tia, you know Guy's just kidding."
"Your reaction wasn't any better, Maxim. Don't think I don't notice where your eyes keep returning."
Now looking wholly at Tia, Maxim denied the depth of her accusations saying he simply continued to look over at Selan and the King because he was curious about their conversation. Tia did not seem to buy it, but was interrupted from any further bickering by King Airin's stately voice.
"This is Selan, Commander of the Parcelyte Army. And Selan, this is Sir Guy of Tanbel, under the services of King Kesef. To his left are Maxim and Tia, both of Elcid. You have heard their name recently in connection with Prince Kese's crown. An entertaining story...although not as entertaining for me as it would have been if the thieves had gotten away with their acquisition." The king laughed heartily again and the four others exchanged bows and curtseys.
As Selan rose from her curtsey and stepped closer to our group, Maxim noticed that she was the woman they had passed upon entering the city, who comforted the little girl. She had seemed so tender there, yet fierce during the training of her soldiers just now. And here before him was mixed equal attributes of beauty, strength, grace, compassion, and toughness. It all took him by surprise.
"A pleasure to meet you Sir Guy of Tanbel, Maxim, and Lady Tia. I hope your travels have been enjoyable. I am hardly presentable to such honored guests so if you will kindly excuse me, I must freshen up. Perhaps I shall see you all at dinner tonight?" she offered in a light voice looking on neither member longer than another. And on that she excused herself, leaving Maxim and his friends again with the King.
The King now led the three foreigners into enclosed portions of his castle. Arches and other curved shapes were prominent throughout the castle's architecture, usually arrayed in deep, dark tones and shades. It did not contain the riches that the Alunze Castle had poured into it, but Maxim and Tia liked the feel of this one better. Paintings, suits of armor, and various similar items lined King Airin's hallways, just as they did Kesef's, only they were not equal in quantity or worth. It provided the King with simpler, yet an even more regal appeal than King Kesef controlled.
Once the tour was completed they had an attendant named Zepel show them to the guest quarters, extending every courtesy Maxim, Tia, and Guy could think of, as well as many they could not.
Much of the rest of the day was spent meeting various people who graced the castle property as well as the townsfolk. Everywhere they went Lady Selan (as many referred to her, for Selan did not particularly like to be called Commander outside of her training and the townspeople refused to simply call her Selan) was highly spoken of for beauty, skill, and mind.
Soon before dinner they had requested another meeting with the King, in hopes of hearing any news that might have sailed into his harbors. Actually the news they sought found them here after crossing over no water.
A man, whom our travelers quickly noticed to be their tour guide, came rushing wildly into the hall, skidding upon the floor as he remembered where he was and saw that the King had guests. He straightened up, but unsteadily bumbled his words before the King. He apologized for his interruption and hurried behavior, but the King dismissed it, urging him to simply spit it out. "We have reason to believe...that the town of Gordovan has been...destroyed, Your Majesty."
"What!?" exclaimed the King in reply, to which the messenger repeated himself less frantically than before.
"Can this be true, Zepel?" the King wondered as he fell back into his seat.
"We cannot confirm the details yet, Your Majesty, but if reports are true a single man appeared and destroyed the entire town!" the soldier said, concern crowding his words.
"A single man! How can a claim such as this be true?" the King wondered. "Send for Commander Selan."
"She has already been summoned, my Lord." As the messenger spoke these words, Selan came striding into the rather open throne room.
"My Lord," she exclaimed as she kneeled before the King, rising at his call. "I overheard the news. Your Majesty, please allow me to find out what happened."
"I admire your heart in this Commander, but we must allow ourselves more time to properly respond. If this is true perhaps we are also vulnerable, so I may need your presence here," the King responded. Perhaps being the youngest Commander of any kingdom's army gave Selan an excuse for her rash decisions, however she always followed them through (allowed by the King) and they always seemed to prove right. But then again it's much more pleasant to remember the good times, forgetting the times one is wrong.
Gordovan was considered a part of King Airin's Kingdom, but was largely independent, even providing their own soldiers for protection. They were not trained under Commander Selan, but under her previous superior, Commander Loagan, who had diminished in favor before King Airin. Little similarity was shared between the two places, much less anything else.
"Allow us to excuse our guests and council together," the King continued. You see, the court of Parcelyte was filled with a lot less bureaucrats and aides than Alunze was, with much of the strategy devised by just King Airin and his Commander, Selan.
Selan acquiesced to the King's decision, but Maxim did not. "Your Majesty, if I may request of you, we would like to speak with you concerning this as well. We are interested in what has happened and perhaps we could join any party you send forth to Gordovan. We could add to your council as well, for this may be the very reason we are traveling."
After some silent thought the King spoke: "Your reputation proceeds you, Maxim, and I have long admired what I have heard of your doings and prowess, Sir Guy. I will allow you to attend our council, but I make no promises regarding your involvement with any plans we decide upon. Very well, what do you propose, Selan?"
"I would only take a small contingent with me, perhaps only three or four, leaving adequate defenses for our city, my Lord," Selan offered in full assurance of her soldier's capabilities.
"Only four of you!" the King said in disbelief. "That would be too dangerous, and something that I could not allow."
"It would strictly be a reconnaissance mission, battle would not be our objective. Three of my soldiers would be capable of such a task, and those left behind would be more than adequate in protecting our land," Selan strongly countered.
After a short silence King Airin said, "I wish I could have have in regards to our troops. Allow me a short time to consider this."
A couple of minutes into this Maxim asked the permission to address the King, which King Airin allowed. "Your majesty, with your permission we could accompany some of your troops upon this journey adding to its strength, while allowing the Commander to stay with your home defenses."
At this the King seemed halfway interested, but Selan quickly shot it down, speaking quite frankly with her King. "I should not stay here, my Lord. You know me too well to settle for that."
"Yes, I do know you well enough for that," the King laughed slightly, "but I will entertain any idea that does not immediately betray foolishness or stupidity. Allow me now to entertain this one."
After more silence the King addressed his Commander again, saying, "I would feel more safe knowing you were here and simply sending a small contingent of ours to check on Gordovan. Yet, I also know you and trust you, Selan. So I will allow you three of your knights."
Then he turned to Maxim and said, "You three, Maxim, Tia, and Sir Guy will be allowed to accompany the group, but details will be known only to Selan and her soldiers. I do not doubt your valor and integrity...and therefore believe you can understand our measures to protect our knights." Maxim knowingly bowed.
"My Lord, my troops and I can handle this mission ourselves," said Selan frankly once again. "We do not need the assistance of these travelers. We can show them the path and they can explore on their own time. I know my troops and what they are capable of, but I don't know these two men and young lady's ability or intentions."
Here Guy poked in boastfully assuring Selan of his own abilities, to which she was not impressed, but it caused the King to smile.
Silencing Guy the King answered, "I know you are strong Selan, yet at times your youth shows through in your rashness. You may need their help, and I doubt you are scared of any harm they could inflict on you and your men. Understand the helpfulness of being aided by others. I will only say it once more: I order you to accompany and protect our guests while investigating Gordovan. Our kingdom does not run low on courtesies."
"But...but Your Majesty..." Selan started before her King interrupted her.
"Do you dare disobey the order of your King, Commander," King Airin said in an authoritative tone.
At this Selan ceased protesting and came to attention before her Lord. "No, Your Majesty. I will accompany our guests to Gordovan and fulfill my mission."
With this the King was done and exited to his chambers, leaving Selan with Parcelyte's three travelers.
Maxim had just seen another picture of this woman, who was just a year younger than he was. Here she was frank and standoff-ish.
Selan took a few steps to address the two Elcid townspeople and Sir Guy of Tanbel. "I do not trust in outsiders when it comes to a mission under my command, with my soldiers. My duty is to my King and my knights first and foremost. That's what you can count on. I suggest that you gather your things together, being ready for whenever we shall leave. The notice will be short."
"At least you are straightforward," Maxim offered, slightly joking, but this was lost on the Commander.
"Believe me, Maxim, I mean no offense, but yes, I do speak my mind.
"Understood, Commander," Maxim said. "I know you don't like this situation you are forced into, but what can we do to gain a little piece of your trust?"
Looking over to Guy, Selan answered, "Strength will not be the answer, I can tell you that." And here Selan excused herself, retiring to her quarters to prepare for Gordovan. She did not completely trust that this was not a trap, but really did not see any evidence or motive for it being one. She would follow her King's command, however, and fully trusted in her knights, and more so her own abilities if it were to come to that.
Staying behind the three foreigners spoke of this different side of the Commander. "She's a tough one," Maxim said.
"Yeah she is," Guy agreed. "She sounds more serious than you, Maxim. But it's good to have both of you on board."
-----------------------------
Later that night, Selan and her three knights were ready to leave, catching our group a little bit by surprise that it was so quick. So they left under the cover of night.
A regal sort of beauty mixed with strength shone from Selan once again and neither Maxim nor Guy overlooked it.
Underneath the dark cloaks one could see that the Parcelyte suit of armour was well polished. Each shoulder plate contained the outline of the Olne, a sea bird that was indigenous to Parcelyte's shores alone, in its natural colors of gray and white.
Each knight of Parcelyte also had a shield made for them containing their family crest. Selan's was a deep, but lighter blue on one half, with white on its opposite side. Amidst the white half three lions of the same blue color stood one above the other.
Guy, too, was dressed with the armour of a Knight of Alunze. As you may remember show is everything with Alunze. His suit, although beaten up in a few places, would probably cost twice as much as Selan's would have. Golden yellow trimmed the shining suit of silver plates locked one upon the other. As an emblem the breastplate housed a black and yellow lotus flower, which was the most cherished of flowers in the kingdom. Below this a ribbon flowed containing the Kingdom's motto, "For King and Country."
Guy's shield was of the same make and colors, with a golden castle (a replication of the Alunze Castle) centered upon it. Crossing this were two long-handled axes, which Guy was particularly proud of. The motto ran underneath this as well.
Of course, had this been worn solely for ceremony his outfit would have changed quite a bit and would have been much less practical for hand- to-hand combat.
The city of Gordovan lay about three days travel to the west, with a slight drag to the south, which gave Maxim and company plenty of time to get to know Selan and her company, even if it was awkward at first. Both companies mainly kept to themselves the first half of the trip, but slowly the distrust was lessening between the two sides.
During the second day of travel Maxim was even able to hold a sustained conversation with Selan. Here, he was able to return (a little bit, at least) to the human, delicate picture that he first saw of the commander before him.
She briefly spoke of her Aunt Tajel without even recognizing it, only to close up once again on her personal life, still not fully trusting her unfamiliar companions. Still, Maxim had time to learn that she was orphaned by the death of her parents at an even younger age than he had been. Aunt Tajel had raised her into the woman she was now.
Maxim refused the urge within himself to tell her about the deaths of his parents, stealing away an opportunity to bridge their relationship, if only slightly. His thought turned towards his own hurt and then he became silent, as the seven continued riding along their steeds.
Selan came alongside Maxim and his horse once again. "There is one thing I don't understand, Maxim. Why are you doing this? Your land is far away. What concerns do you have with Parcelyte and Gordovan?"
Maxim broke from his memories and thought upon her question, considering how best to answer it. "I have a mission of my own, Commander. I need to know about this Destroyer, if he exists."
"How do you know this Destroyer is a he?" asked Selan, taking offense at his assumptions.
"Habit, Commander, not the sexism you imply. And if I find out that he...or she...exists, I will have to act accordingly." Maxim was being as succinct and nice as possible, in spite of Selan's distrust in him.
After more silence in which Selan accepted Maxim was going to have tight lips, she spoke, saying, "I see. I've been in the midst of battles since I was a child. I understand you to be a fighter as well. Trust between fighters must be earned, however, and I am sorry if I move slowly in that department. It is necessary for a Commander and her troops, you see." Selan's tone was very pleasant and she seemed sincere in her speech.
Maxim was surprised at this, for she had not shown much open honesty during his travels with her. Perhaps she was beginning to trust them. This made the second half of the trip more bearable.
So in the evening on the third day of their mission Commander Selan and her three knights, together with Maxim, Sir Guy, and Lady Tia made it to the city of Gordovan. Or at least what was left of it. The sight was hard for any member to talk about. But what happened after they arrived was never forgotten by any of them.