The Guard

by Dr Crazy Glasses

A conference has been called between the nine major allied nations. Halt, Gilan, Will and Horace accompany their king to the far off land of Viridian. Many rumours surround this small nation. Who are the Guard? And are they as fearsome as they say? This is my first try, so constructive criticism would be appreciated

2. Chapter 2

I do not own Ranger's Apprentice

"Where are we going again Halt?" Will asked his green-faced mentor, trying to get his mind off the movement of the ship. It seemed to work, because Halt glared at him

"Weren't you listening? We're escorting King Duncan to the conference of Nine Nations. Arulean, Skandia, Gallica, Iberion, Toscano, Nihon-ja, Arrida, Viridian and Sonderland are all going to be present and we're here to make sure nothing bad happens."

"There are more countries than that." Horace said, "Why aren't Hibernia or Celtica joining in? And aren't there some other countries on the mainland?"

"Your knowledge of geography and current events astounds me Horace." Halt said dryly "The Hibernian Kings are to busy fighting amongst themselves, Teutland has the same internal fighting going on, Alpina and Aslava are in the middle of a war and Celtica are to mistrustful to allow anyone of any standing to go to a foreign land. Especially one with a reputation like Viridian." Horace frowned

"What's Viridian's reputation?" he asked hesitantly, not sure if he wanted an answer. Will also look to his mentor. Viridian was far away and the things he had heard were all blown massively out of proportion. Or at least, he hoped so.

"They say that they're all Faeries." Halt snorted "And that they are guarded by the demons of the forest, terrible half-animal creatures that fly through the trees, killing all in their path." Horace went white

"And we're going there voluntarily?" He said. Halt made a calming gesture

"It's just rumours and superstition, Horace. If you want to know more, you should ask Gilan. The main reason Crowley sent him with us is the fact that he's been there before." Will and Horace looked over to where Gilan was taking quietly with the king

"I wondered why he came." Will said thoughtfully "He said it was because of his sparkling wit and personality." Halt snorted again.

"What are they talking about?" Horace asked. Gilan looked like he was explaining something to the king, who was nodding slowly.

"Probably a quick course in the customs there. I'm told they are quite different." Halt said, "You should ask him to help you too. The last thing you want is to embarrass yourself."

"What about you Halt?" Horace asked. Halt fixed him with a steely glare

"I never embarrass myself." He said flatly.