42 nd Planting, 221 – from the Journal of Bene-Timber, Level 1 Bard
I received my commission into the Emperor’s diplomatic corps today. The sergeant I had to deal with to acquire my service gear was a most disagreeable fellow named Simon, but at least I received my gear from a stock of new equipment and not an old stained remnant from some poor fellow that had been accosted by bandits. The stories I have heard are quite astonishing.
I’m working for a nice fellow named Andante. He is quite a lute player and says he will be pleased to help me learn the lute and new ballads he comes across if I were to share the same with him. Knowing from the college this was absolutely expected I heartily agreed to share. He says I’ll be able to earn some extra money for myself just playing in taverns on my usual rounds and I am able to keep the proceeds to use to complete outfitting myself with gear and later to improve my lifestyle. I must have appeared contrarian for after seeing my face he said to me, “You will find it important to have folks see that you fare well in the service of the Emperor. They will believe you are well connected, which is an illusion we all find favorable in the service.”
He took me over to pick out a riding horse from the stables and made sure I knew how to care for the beast. He has an eye for horses for he found a wonderful cream-colored animal with a good look about him. We obtained the tack and harness and saddled him. Two regular saddle bags were located that will have to do for now but they have seen much use. They bore the symbol of the diplomatic corps and I wondered what fate came to the previous owner. Andante said not to worry, he probably had earned enough to buy new saddlebags that suited him better. Andante is such a likeable fellow I find it hard not to believe everything he says, but I remember hearing stories of other young bards in the service.
With all that done, we went to draw some rations because he didn’t know when I would have to fare for myself, although we were instructed to travel with merchant caravans and the like when we could. Caravans would feed you for a modest price and it was much better for us to use our time gathering information, writing notes and working on our craft. We also drew a large sack of oats for the horse although the horse would usually graze as we traveled.
We took one more stop that morning over to an out of the way shop. The shop keeper was a dwarf with a great bushy red beard and bushy red hair. A plump fellow like most dwarves I was acquainted with in the city. This fellow, Aaron Dunbar or some such name, was a bit hard of hearing. Andante told me he had spent time in his youth adventuring so he was a good fellow to deal with. He would understand the importance of having reliable equipment and didn’t sell any trash to folks. From Aaron we purchased two small crude flutes. They were overly bulky instruments and not sanded, polished or stained, and made for small hands, but they played beautifully. Andante explained that I should use these to teach music to children as I journeyed. In so doing I would develop important friends in the communities I would visit. Aaron didn’t make the flutes but had an acquaintance that supplied him with many small devices. I was deeply moved by this help from Andante for this was not the sort of thing I learned as a bard or in my brief training for the service. The wisdom of it was immediately evident and I thanked him to the point I think he was a little embarrassed over it.
The last thing we spoke about was my route and territory. He gave me a map he copied, probably from his own notes and memory, which showed the countryside in many details. But after showing me the map, in a tavern, during lunch, and a tankard of ale which I paid for gladly, he talked about every place on the map and some places that were not “marked.” For example, he told me about a ranger contact of his that lived in this place here (which was at the last letter in a name of a town shown on the map). His name was Flint and the last letter in the town name was strangely positioned so the “F” appeared in that spot on his map, and the “F” was noted in a different style lettering that other “f”s on the map. This was a technique they told us about in our training, but seeing how Andante used this technique was impressive.
So Andante gave me all manner of information I wouldn’t have any other way to help me before I left on my first journey around the “circuit”, as it was called. I would share the same circuit Andante was on until he believed he could trust me to take a portion of his circuit for myself. And he impressed upon me all these things I received by word of mouth were not to be divulged to anyone not in the service. If I were robbed by bandits or pressed by high government officials, I could surrender my map to save my life, but I couldn’t tell anyone something Andante shared with me about this map and the special information he gave me.
With all that business done I ordered another tankard and watched Andante perform for the patrons of the tavern. He was quite a lute player and sang very well. He had learned to incorporate many movements into his playing to add to the emotion of the music. I never saw anyone enjoy themselves like Andante when playing before an enthusiastic crowd. At the bard college we played for our teachers, who all too often were critical and seldom showed appreciation for our skill. When we played for each other it was clear some students stood out on one instrument or another, and some excelled in singing better than the others. I hoped to become the orator of epic poems and wonderful ballads, but I was not seen as one of the best at any of these things, yet. Andante said it would all come with time. At the end of my tankard I stood up and raised it to my new friend and drained it. He bowed his head with a little flair toward me, and I bowed in return. I placed the tankard on the table upside down, signaling the maid that I was leaving, and I placed a silver piece on the tankard for her, a generous tip. I picked up a pack of items I brought in with me, and headed for the door.
I joined a caravan moving to Colorova, the same direction I was headed. We spent the day moving along a dry road in the sun past many farmer’s fields. Occasionally we passed a farmer or his wife who would typically stop what they were doing to observe us as we passed by. I spent my time either talking with one of my hosts or playing my lute and singing softly to pass the time. I quickly realized playing from horseback was not the same as playing at the college. I decided it would be better for me to strum and sing rather than work on my finger-picking technique. But riding through the countryside and singing made me quite thirsty so I drank most of my water during the half-day journey.
The caravanners were well acquainted with this route. They knew exactly where we would stop for the night, which was a pleasant meadow next to a creek where the animals could enjoy the rest of the daylight and we could draw water for ourselves. I noted that the caravanners were not overly fond of bathing but I tried not to let them know how I felt about that, being that in the diplomatic service I was expected to make friends of everyone. But I had experienced a long day in the sun and needed to wash the road off so I walked a short way upstream, for no sensible man bathes downstream of animals, and removed all the clothing I dared, before I rinsed myself off in the cool water.
Returning to the caravan, I unloaded my overnight gear and picked out a spot to set up a tarp. As I started laying my gear down my host approached and said I would have to set up ‘over there’ as he pointed to a place on the other side of the camping area. I must have given him a quizzical look and he said simply, “The unmarried men will be camping over there.” I said “OK”, and moved my gear. On the other side of the camp the best places had already been found and I was faced with either placing my spot beyond the others or in a less favorable spot closer in, which I decided I would do tonight.
Once set up I found a bit of log I could sit on and began to prepare to make a fire. One of the other young men came over and asked me in his thick accent if I would rather care to join them at their fire tonight. I didn’t know it, but they were very fond of Bards and were happy to have me share their fire for the song and music. A heavy-set woman brought us a large piece of meat, a bag of grain and another bag of vegetables, and one fellow produced his cooking kit and began to make something of it all. Another fellow had made the fire and was tending to it while some other were busy with this and that. One fellow produced a block of wood he had been carving and his carving knife as he set to work. Two fellows had disappeared in the woods a short distance away and returned with much happiness in their expressions for they had found something they were looking for. The other fellows produced small smoking pipes and a pouch of herbs. They filled their bowls and began to smoke and tell tales and jokes to one another. The fellow that had invited me gestured to me and said in his thick accent, “C’mon bard, play for us. We enjoy your music.”
I gladly pulled around my lute from my back and started to check the tuning. This amused them for it appeared they shared some bard joke among themselves, and joked while singing “boing, boing boing.” in their thick accent as I tuned up. But having tuned up the lute I searched my memory for what sort of music they would be familiar with and I played a song about the west where they were from, which they all recognized and joined in the singing as they were able. I was inwardly pleased with myself as I was succeeding in establishing a bond with these fellows. I played on favoring tunes from that region until the cooking fellow was ready with some dinner.
I had brought my plate and flatware, small water skin and mug with me to the campfire. They filled my plate with a stew which smelled wonderful, but as I went to pour water into my mug they said, “No, no, no. We have for you the drink.” They poured a mug of tea for me which smelled unlike any tea I had tasted before. They all stood up and the fellow with my mug stood up holding my mug so that I had to stand too. He handed me my mug and they removed their hats before one fellow said a short prayer quietly. Another fellow raised his mug and said “To the company of angels” and the other fellows raised their mugs also. They all replied “The angels.” And everyone took a drink from their mugs and I did as they did. I coughed a sputtered a bit and they all laughed a bit for I was not expecting the flavor of the tea. It wasn’t disagreeable but just unfamiliar, and it seemed they had experienced this before with other foreigners traveling with them.
We all sat down and they talked some more. They asked me questions about my home and experience. I answered them honestly about where I grew up and how I came to attend the bard college. I told them why I joined the service rather than avoid pledging myself to another man, for they placed great importance that they were each free men. I explained to them I didn’t see service to the emperor as a kind of slavery or bondage and it appeared they chose to be polite and say, “well maybe so”, when their faces showed something else.
Finishing my plate, I washed and played my lute some more before making my excuses and writing about this in my journal. The young men talked and joked a bit more and two of them practiced with their rapiers in the firelight. They were quite good and I was reminded that should we be ambushed by bandits I would be expected to fight along side these fellows. After writing in my journal I went off to bed. I picked out my map and went over every detail trying to pinpoint where I believed we were that night. I thought about all the word-of-mouth information I had received from Andante and reviewed it before putting the map away and going to sleep.
We rose just before the sun this morning and enjoyed a quick breakfast of eggs, ham and potatoes. My mates shared some more of their tea with me, which was a most welcome warm drink on this cool morning. After breakfast I packed my things up and went to bathe again before saddling my horse. Things seemed to be coming together well so I pulled out my flute and played a little tune, which caught the attention of all the children travelling with us. They came over and made a ring around me and my horse, joined hands and circled around as I played. They were all so happy. A couple women came over and shewed the children off back to their wagons but they were not unhappy with me. We saddled up and rode off shortly after.
The morning passed much as the previous day as we passed by a few farms seeing few people, but now the people were halflings. Being the time of year for planting the farms were little more than tilled earth. My music I shared was well received and I stopped to play for the farmer’s families and then caught up with the caravan.
At lunch I sat with the young men but the children wanted to come hear me play again. I found I had to get up and visit with the families to avoid the children hearing talk unsuited to their age. I caught the attention of the mothers who liked the opportunity for the children to play so gayly around the camp. A few of the young ladies also caught my eye, and I theirs, which also meant the older men were keeping their eye on me too having heard much about the devilish wiles of the bards.
The afternoon was also much like the morning except we began to move through some hills. We saw more sheep and less farming in these areas. I spent time riding with the leader of the caravan, Illihambur, and talking to him. I tried to let him speak but this was a real duel for he wanted to know more about me and I him. He wanted to know that I understood my responsibilities; as a diplomat required that I not seduce the young women of the caravan, and he questioned me directly and indirectly about this point. I was not unhappy to assure him of my devotion to duty and that I was well counseled not to entangle myself in this way. But I was very eager to hear his views on the country through which we were passing, where we were going and where he was going beyond that. After a long afternoon ride, he invited me to dine with him so that he could tell me the things I wanted to know.
We made camp once again near a brook that emptied into a lake. The terrain was a bit hillier and we camped in the edge of the wood. Again this was a spot well known to his company and everyone seemed to know what they needed to do as we stopped. The men cared for the animals and the women began to prepare for a meal. The young women looked after the children and the children were everywhere running about having been released from a day of either riding in a cramped wagon or walking along.
I sat with Illihambur and talked about the communities we passed through. I asked if he had a map I could see and he produced his map. I pulled out my map and we compared the maps together. He looked at my map and said, “I see you have a bard’s diplomatic map.” I was surprised he would think my map was special but I didn’t share any of the verbal knowledge I received from Andante. I did tell him I received this map from Andante who I had learned Illihambur was acquainted with. He pointed out some of the special tell-tale points of a bard’s diplomatic map including the fine script used, the very even line quality of a practiced writing hand and the attractiveness of the symbols for the woods, and the towns and other features.
His map did have features not shown on my map and I asked him about these places. He explained why these places were marked on his map and he often added, “I’m not surprised that isn’t interesting to a diplomat.” Implying Andante didn’t write them on my map for that reason, but I suspected he knew better why some of these places were not on my map. I asked him where he got his map and he replied striking his fist on his chest, “I made this map, Illihambur.” I then asked if I could make a copy and he agreed, so long as I didn’t give the information to anyone else. He didn’t want any of his secrets getting into the hands of other traders or bandits, but he was fine with sharing them with me so long as I kept my pledge. And with that, I produced my pen and ink and copied his map as well as I could. He was right that my copy looked distinctly like something made by a practiced scribe and not just a working man or uneducated oaf. I filed this lesson away for the future.
After a good dinner and some more music for the families this night, I went to sleep over by the young men under my tarp in my good blankets.
We woke before the dawn again and made ready to continue moving. This morning was a copy of the previous morning except we were packing up in the edge of the woods. Being in the woods made me more comfortable but it clearly had the opposite effect on my hosts. I guess being in the wood makes it easier for bandits to approach before they are near enough to set upon the company.
Our path kept us running along this brook for the whole morning although we crossed it a few times this way and that. The path was narrow in the sloped ground so that the horses moved single file. The wagons had great difficulty moving in this terrain, which caused me to question why we were moving along this path? Was there a specific place we were going that justified this route over another or was there something we were avoiding by coming this way? Being close to the water we did enjoy the shade of the trees.
I played my lute now and then, but for no reason I could identify I was trying to stay alert to any threats that might befall the caravan. It had not occurred to me before that caravanners were especially exposed to bandits with their whole families traveling with them. It seemed we should have guards traveling with us. But since this was not just a family or two, but an entire community, there were many men travelling in the company. I noticed except for the young unmarried men, men of that age were not traveling with us. It seemed once a young man married he often decided to leave the caravan. I wondered if this was by choice or if the older men didn’t want the new couple traveling with them. Then I noticed there were no infants or toddlers in the company and the youngest children were five or six years.
There was a commotion late in the morning when the caravan met travelers coming the other way on the narrow path. Illihambur and a couple of the old men rode to the front and I followed them. Ahead of us on the path was a group of Dwarves leading their own caravan except this was not a family affair for them. They had ponies and two wheeled carts and they openly carried weapons. A half-dozen of our young men were fanned out in front of our party across the path, and four armed and armored dwarves were fanned out across the path facing them.
Illihambur arrived and dismounted, walked to the front of the column and introduced himself. A dwarf among them introduced himself, Dravok. Illihambur said he was the master of this caravan and asked what trade Dravok practiced. Dravok replied that he was also a merchant, adding that he was traveling to Rangoon, the county seat, to see the governor on business. Illihambur replied, “To see the governor? We have an emissary, Bene-Timber, traveling with us, and since you are traveling on official business he will wish to speak with you.” And hearing my name, I dismounted and walked to Illihambur.
The protocol for this meeting was well known to folks that traveled in this empire. I was a government official and Dravok did not appear to be an official. Since he was claiming to be traveling on official business he would have the right to pass first if there were no governmental official present to adjudicate the matter. But because I was an official of the government, albeit one of the lowest officials of any authority, I had the responsibility to decide who should pass and who should wait.
I introduced myself to Dravok and Illihambur each as the situation demanded. “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” With that I made my practiced bow as instructed and produced my credentials, bound in a leather case bearing the seal of the Emperor’s Chamberlain.
With that Dravok introduced himself, although it was clear he had no desire to participate in any ceremonies and was irritated by the whole thing. The young men of our party were amused by the whole thing, and started singing softly to themselves the comical “Boing, boing, boing”, song, which mocked my tuning of the lute. “I am Dravok, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre.” And without any bow or flourish he waved his hand conveying that he had no need of seeing my credentials, accepting my claim to be an official.
Illihambur then introduced himself. “I am Illihambur, master of this caravan and merchant from Cataran.” He took my credentials and gave a quick look before returning them to me. He grinned a little and I wondered what he was thinking about. He then looked up and said, “Our caravan of eleven wagons wish to pass unopposed on this narrow path as far as the next bridge over the Verde Brook.” And with this, Dravok cast his eyes down and replied, “Aye, and my company wishes to pass unopposed as far as the Penne Lake on this narrow path. However, being as our company consists of five carts and no women and children, we agree to yield to the Bridge.” And with that he looked up and to his fellows waving that they should move off the path. Illihambur interjected, “Wait! For I desire that since the Bridge is not a long way off, we wish to extend an invitation to your company to dine with us for the midday meal by the cool waters of the brook.” “We have provisions for all and have enjoyed the hospitality of our friends in Confernos as you will too.” Dravok turned back and looked up saying in a normal tone, “Aye, we will dine together then.” And with this he turned and pointed behind his caravan indicating they would turn back for the bridge.
We arrived at the bridge as Illihambur said we would following Dravok’s company. There the ladies prepared a usual midday meal and the young men attended to the animals. I was likewise attending to my own when one of the old men came to me and said “You must come”, and pointed to the center of our gathering. I hesitated and he said, “Your horse will be attended to by the others.” And so I followed him to the gathering of the old men with Dravok’s men. We sat in a wide circle and I was shown to a seat between Illihambur and Dravok. When Illihambur saw that I didn’t have my lute, he asked a fellow to go fetch it for me.
“Dravok”, he began, “I have heard of the Seven Guilds, but I do not think my young friend has.” “Please tell him of your country.”
Dravok looked at me and began, “My friend, I figured you were young and not well acquainted with your duties as an emissary. How long have you been in the service of the Emperor?” I replied, “I started only a short while ago, yes.” Dravok continued, “I knew this because in the country we do not make formal introductions for it is enough that we respect each other as dwarves and men … and half-elves too. Such behaviors are only expected in palaces, mansions, great halls, towns, cities and courts of law. This is why the young men were making sport of you. I wager you have never traveled in the company of a government official before.”
“Well, yes. I grew up in a small settlement near the Elven forest Allenhalvania and never traveled anywhere outside my locale until I journeyed to the capitol city to attend the Bardic College two years past. After that, I joined the service and completed my training as an ambassador and emissary, which led me to be here.”
“Enough about that Dravok.” Illihambur broke it, “Please tell Bene-Timber about your people. Someday you will thank me for this opportunity to speak to my friend for I can see he will do good things as an ambassador someday.”
About this time my lute arrived and I reached out and took it. It slid easily into my lap and I immediately began to check the tuning to prepare to play. Some of the young men began to sing softly, “Boing, boing, boing.” Illihambur raised his voice and said one word in another language I didn’t know and the singing stopped quite short. He smiled and nodded at me and I finished tuning the lute. He looked and said, “You play for us quietly while Dravok tells us about his country.” So I searched my memory for a song that would suit the occasion and began to play.
Dravok listened a little and then nodded his head as if he recognized the tune and then began to speak. My country lies north of Confernos beginning at the Sword Peak Mountains. The Dwarves have lived there since the first age of man after landing on the continent from across the Blue Sea. We dug a keep into the mountains on the north face as is the custom of our people and established farms on the slopes and plains in the shadow of the mountain. After a generation we were sufficiently established to begin searching for gold, platinum and precious gems in the mountains where we have found them before. Our advance tunnelers went into the rock and found new forms of rock we had not excavated before. We also found many rich seams of coal, which we could excavate quickly and tunnel through advancing our exploration. We found deposits of gems and gold and this reinforced our resolve to make a permanent establishment in the Swords. In those days everything was very good and happy because we had no boundaries. We could expand our mines as far as we desired so every dwarf could have his own place. But seventy years after we arrived we experienced our first troubles when the orcs attacked. They came from the east and attacked our farms in the hills. We were not prepared for an attack on that scale and many dwarves were slaughtered. And the stupid orcs didn’t take much because they were not prepared to raid and plunder a bountiful farm so while some of the farmer families were completely killed, many of their farms were otherwise unspoiled.
Word traveled quickly to the keep and throughout our land. The king sent out war parties to guard the eastern frontier of our farmland so that during the night you could see a line of campfires stretching far away to the north, a very distinct line of light in the night. And during the day, caravans of stone were brought down from the mines and the great eastern wall was built to protect us from the orcs. But all the while, and especially at first, the orc raids continued mostly at night.
Our warriors were diligent but after months of the same routine one can’t stay alert every minute. So the orcs would come and kill a few sentries before they arrived at the main force. And when they arrived at the main force we would return their evil with our vengeance. We killed many, many orcs in the earliest battles so that they pulled back and it looked like they might stop altogether. But dwarves live long lives and we don’t forget our kin.
And so the construction of the great eastern wall continued. The warriors began to relax a bit after days of no new activity. They began to compete with one another with the construction of the wall. Each company had a section of 400 strides they were building. And each company attempted to make their section better than their neighbors and the rest of them. Surveyors, engineers and architects had to look at the project and determine the requirements for the whole wall and establish standards so that all the sections of the wall were the right height, and a set thickness, with towers and battlements that showed consistency. They determined the wall would be eighty strides high, which made it very imposing against siege towers and ladders. The footings were sunken into the ground to give the whole wall more strength and in front of the wall we dug out the soil until we reach very hard ground so that there were no nutrients for grasses to grow that would give anyone some place to hide.
This was continued out beyond the wall for over a bowshot so we would know the range of our bowmen that would stand guard. Towers were made in each section that jutted out from the top of the wall. The shape was half of a six-sided shape so that one side faces directly at the enemy and the other two faces protect the towers on either side. The face of the wall is made of finished stone. The stones themselves are all very large having been quarried from inside our mountain from the hardest veins of stone we encountered. This helped provide protection against siege engines that would throw rocks at the wall should the orcs or other enemies decide to take the wall.
We took the good soil to our farms and spread it around evenly and this gave us an especially thick layer of rich soil to farm. But when the rains came the runoff collected in the low area beyond the wall creating a great soft bog where nothing grew. It is an eerie sight to stand on the wall and look out across our dwarven made wasteland. We had never built a project like this before for in our homeland the races lived next to one another as far back as recorded history. Boundaries changed often enough that nothing like this was ever before built in that land. But we had not experienced the senseless destruction of the orcs either. Never had an invading force killed more dwarves than they could plunder from. It was the most mindless evil we had ever seen.
And the orcs hadn’t gone away. When we defeated them soundly after one particularly large battle, the attacks stopped for many weeks. We went about our wall building and began the friendly competition among our companies. But the orcs spent their time planning how they would move against us next. They developed a new strategy to demoralize our guards. They began a campaign of snatching sentries, taking them back and torturing them. Sometimes they would return the mutilated bodies but often these dwarves were never seen again. Our leaders knew we couldn’t exist in this state even if we built the wall and they could never come in again. We couldn’t allow the orcs to take our sentries like this until we finished the wall. So we made the decision to go to war, find them, and if possible deliver such a defeat that they never wished to harm a dwarf again.
Workmen were summoned to take over construction of the wall and the companies assembled into battalions, and the battalions into brigades, and the brigades into a great dwarven army. And the army marched off to the east and campaigned against the orcs. Those were evil times and we do not like to speak of what happened for although we defeated the orcs, and delivered the defeat we wanted that would cause all orcs to reflect before attacking any dwarf ever again, we defeated our enemy by becoming our enemy and we are ashamed for it. And he trailed off for a moment and didn’t speak for many moments.
Our food was delivered to us and Illihambur had a man stand up while everyone removed their hats. And he quietly said a short prayer and sat down. And Illihambur stood and raised his mug and gave a toast to the Seven Guilds and to our guests. There was a cheer, especially from our guests, and he sat down and we began to eat. Illihambur invited our guest, Dravok, to eat and then tell us about the seven guilds. And so we ate together and drank together. Finishing our plates, the ladies came to gather them up and Illihambur excused himself, stood up and walked away.
He returned with a large leather pouch and a smoking pipe. He sat down and fished out another leather pouch, smaller and of supple leather and filled his pipe with herbs. He passed the small pouch to me and I guess I just looked at him, and then I raised it and sniffed it, which made Illihambur laugh. “You don’t carry a pipe, Bene? Here, I have a pipe for you”, he said as he produced a small pipe from a pocket in the jacket. I reached out and took the pipe and filled the bowl with some of the herbs and I asked, “What sort of plants are these?”
He replied, “This is dried Tocco leaf grown in Colorava where we are going. It is one of the finest trading commodities and is highly sought after from which we make most of our money. It is only because traveling is so dangerous with bandits … (he stopped because he didn’t want to mention orcs in front of Dravok) and other hazards, that we can make so much money from it here in Confernos. For this we travel with many men. And the long journey makes us want to keep our families with us. But many people in the country think we are a people without a country and they think we are bandits like gypsies. We are not bandits, but we bear their scorn to help our people by bringing back the riches of other countries. In this way we become enriched with the special things other cultures make and grow and in exchange they enjoy the finest tocco grown in the world.”
With that I had about finished trying to pack some of the leaf in my pipe and Dravok was looking with anticipation to me beckoning me to pass the pouch to him. I passed the pouch to Dravok and Illihambur produced two more pouches from his leather case. He passed them to the fellow on his other side who rose and handed one pouch to the fellow beyond. He stepped across to the dwarf sitting to the left of Dravok and handed this pouch to him motioning that all the dwarves were welcome to have a bowl of leaf. He then returned to his seat. Dravok finished packing his pipe bowl and passed the pouch to me and I handed it to Illihambur who handed it to the fellow seated to his right. Meanwhile all the fellows around the fire took the leaf and readied their pipes. Dravok and some of the men had placed the pipes to their mouth and were sucking on the pipe and the dwarves in particular were nodding their heads, but nobody had lit their pipe. And Illihambur turned and said, “Bene, since you are not accustomed to smoking a pipe, let your pipe rest here and let us enjoy a tradition from my country as we smoke our pipes. I invite you to stand and play your lute for us while we smoke our pipes as is our custom. Do you know The Yellow Flower in the Valley, a song from our country?”
I nodded and stood up placing the pipe gently at my seat, grabbing my lute and raising it over my shoulder and stepping forward turned round to face Illihambur and bowed my head. And he returned the bow with an inviting raise of his hand, and I began to play the song he asked for. I knew this song well and I played it using my best finger picking style and singing in my baritone voice about the yellow flower, which was actually a maid dressed in yellow that was promised to be married when her suitor returned. And as I began singing all the men lit their pipes and smoked quietly listening. And finishing that song I played another more upbeat song from the region which was well received and then a dwarfish song for our guests. And after that song Illihambur invited me to sit and enjoy my pipe.
He asked Dravok to tell me about the seven guilds, which were seven trades of miners that worked together in the mines. Some were tunnelers, and some were carpenters trained in making wooden braces for the tunnels, and some managed the mine carts and laying the track and so on. So I learned that Dravok, the master of the Seven Guilds, was a very important dwarf in his land. And Illihambur had managed to give me important information as well as a little education about the culture of this foreign land. And I knew that this important dwarven guild master had been convinced, or ordered, or summoned to see someone in the southern portion of Confernos, which was important information I should share with my contacts when I reached my destination.
And Dravok finished his story and I finished my pipe. And Illihambur knew one more thing I should want to know and he said, “Dravok, you carry a map, don’t you?” And Dravok replied, “Aye.” Illihambur continued, “I wager you’re anxious to resume your journey but I have a proposition for you.” He reached in his leather pouch and produced another bag of herb and held it up for Dravok to see. “For a copy of your map, I would trade you this bag of Tocco.” And Dravok looked at the bag and was dumb for a moment. And he said “Aye!” And he reached in his jacket and produced a paper and he opened it and looked it over. Then he looked to the dwarf on his left and said, in dwarfish, “Fanlean, give me your map.” And this dwarf reached in his jacket pocket and produced a paper and handed it to Dravok. And Dravok looked at the paper and nodded, and he handed the paper to me, and I to Illihambur. And Illihambur took the paper and handed me the bag of Tocco, which I handed to Dravok. And he took the bag and smiled as he opened it and looked inside.
With that Illihambur stepped forward and extended his hand to Dravok saying, “Good travels to you my friend. We’ve been on this trail for three days and have not seen any trouble. From there your path divides from ours, but I believe you will have a good three days if the weather is agreeable.” And Dravok took his hand, looked into Illihambur’s eyes and said, “And good travels to you, my friend, Illihambur. We have also had three good days travel on this path behind us. I know not where your path lies but may it be pleasant and smooth. And all the men and dwarves stood and removed their hats. And a man from Illihambur’s company said a short prayer for safe travel and everyone put their hats back on their head. And the dwarves filed out of the circle shaking my hand and shaking the hand of Illihambur their host. And all the men and women of Illihambur’s company made ready to get back on the road, for they knew how much further they had to go today.
I picked up my lute and my other stuff and walked over to pack my things for the ride ahead. And Illihambur walked up to me leading his horse and he handed me Dravok’s map saying, “I bought this for you. Let us ride together and speak of what we learned today.” And I accepted the map and agreed. Then I opened the map and I looked at it. It was a map made by a dwarf; that was very clear by the lettering. I noted that the map was a much larger scale than the one I had. And I looked at the strange symbols the dwarf had on his map and tried to sort out what they meant.
We mounted our horses and wagons and the young men began to ride forward on the path. We sat side by side on our horses as the wagons filed in behind the leaders and with the last wagon we began edging our horses forward with a few men riding behind us. “We have a long ride ahead of us this day because of our midday rest but I think it was well worth the delay”, he said. “What did you learn from our guests?”
I learned about the earliest history of the Dwarves of the Sword Mountains (We did not refer to this mountain formation as the Sword Peak Mountains as Dravok did). In my home we only knew the Sword Mountains were occupied by dwarves and their history was not something that concerned my countrymen. We did know of orcs that lived in the region to the east of the Sword Mountains. We faced these orcs a few times ourselves, but not on the scale he spoke about.
I learned that the dwarves organize their tunneling efforts into seven trades, which makes good sense. I learned that dwarves may be found as farmers and not just mountain dwellers, smiths and warriors as all the tales say. It does sound as if the avarice for gold and gems is accurate though. These fellows were well mannered but unfortunately a little stiff for my taste, but in the service I am not to permit these to be known. And now I am curious to see this land and the great wall they built. I enjoy a roof over my head and a paved street as much as anyone but I’ve traveled and seen communities from a distance too. It is clear to me nature is more powerful than man. But the picture he paints for me is to believe the dwarves altered the landscape in a profound way and I should like to see this great work before I die.
I learned that dwarves also place great value on your herbs. They are also careful with their information as well for I noticed he wouldn’t sell us his map, but his friends map instead. And I thought so before you confirmed it, that you went to some expense for my benefit purchasing that map and the information I learned. And you place value on the fact that I heard these things from Dravok’s mouth instead of your own. I don’t believe you learned these things today.
Illihambur looked over toward me and asked, “And anything else?” I raised my eyebrows and thought for a moment. Illihambur said, “The current leader of the Seven Guilds of The Sword Mountains is named Dravok and he is on official business apparently at the request of an official in Confernos somewhere to the south of here, or possibly he has been sent on official business there.” I replied, “Oh yes, yes.” “You remembered well and retained much of the information you should have from this meeting”, he said, “but you didn’t realize this was the most important thing.” “You will do well not to forget this but do not write it down. Share it with the officials you meet and you will find their favor.” Illihambur concluded, “Andante asked me to make sure you joined up with my caravan so that I could teach you a few things like this, and we have been friends for a long time.”
And so at the end of a long day I practiced my lute, I wrote in my journal, I reviewed the dwarven map once again and enjoyed a bowl of Tocco before going to sleep.
45th Planting, 221
Today started like the day before and the day before that. We rode until lunch and I played and practiced my lute as we rode. After lunch there was a little more movement and anticipation among the company because we would arrive at a settlement for the evening. The settlement was only a small hamlet I heard but it would be a welcome change from the life on the road.
We left the trees and the Verde Brook and were on a road again. The road went southwest to northeast and we made good time. We traveled through farmland again with halflings busy working on their gardens outside for the planting season was well finished. Halflings are quite fussy about their gardens growing vegetables, herbs and flowers. Their farm crops were mostly grain and beans.
A few farmers were out working on their fences, which were low piles of stone that wound through the low places between the hills and rises. Halflings seem to prefer making their boundaries this way avoiding hill tops while men tend to make their boundaries as straight lines until they run into a river or a mountain. Elves don’t seem to care for fences of any kind but they know their boundaries very well. When an elf makes a boundary marker of any kind, he is not trying to convey the information to other elves but to humans, or dwarves, or orcs or some other race.
We arrived at the hamlet as expected with plenty of light to set up camp but we had to be careful for our water. There was no brook to draw our water from but there was a well in the hamlet. Since we needed water for our animals we were only able to draw water from the well for them. We used water we had with us for our cooking and cleaning. The young men went with many buckets to the well as we arrived, but although I was preparing to join them Illihambur told me not to go. Instead he said fetch your instruments and come. So I grabbed my flute and my lute and even the two small crude flutes I bought before this journey began.
I joined Illihambur who was walking to see a halfling standing at the edge of the hamlet and there were children gathered near him. Behind us was a little parade of our children too. And as Illihambur approached the halflings expression broke into a wide grin as he extended his hand. Illihambur said, “Gelfin, how have you been?” and he extended his hand and they clasped warmly. And the halfling said, “Illihambur, you have brought me a bard. Thank you very much.” And with that he turned to look at me and extended his hand, “Welcome my friend. What is your name?” I took hold of his hand and looked into his joyous face and said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of …” “So you’re in the service?” he interrupted. “Very well. You look quite young for a half-elf in the service.” Illihambur said, “Well this is Bene-Timber’s first circuit working for Andante.” By now the children were jumping up and down with excitement and Illihambur looked over and said to me, “Bene, please play for the children. The love a visit from a bard. Andante would sit over there on the edge of that fence and play for the children every time he would visit.” And so I walked over to the fence and sat down.
All the children were circled around me and many of the halfling children were holding their fingers up in front of their mouths and whistling so that I believed they wanted to hear me play the flute. And so I got my flute out and began to play a happy tune with many flourishes and they were all so excited. And I remembered that Andante said I should share my small crude flutes to give children a chance to learn. I produced my two extra flutes and the children all clapped and quickly they were in the children’s hands and they were playing a bunch of random notes, making such a racket. I raised my forefinger to my lips and they quieted down. And I got my flute out and played a note and asked them to play the same note. I held my flute out so they could see the finger position and they tried to play the note. I helped on of them place their fingers over the holes properly and they played the note again. Then I played another note. And asked them to repeat that note. And again I helped the one child play the note properly. Then back to the first note and back to the second note. And so they got the hang of that. And then I got them to play the two notes in rhythm and we were ready. As they played the two note rhythm, I played a happy song over their notes and the children all began to grin and be happy. And several of them began to jump up and down because they wanted to play and some of them danced alone and some with a partner imitating the dances they saw from the adults. And we let other children play so everyone had a grand time. And all the while the adults from the caravan settled in for the evening.
It was quite a joy to see the children all jumping around having fun together. The halfling children and the children of our company all played together very well. And after a spell some of the mothers came over to watch the children and some of the older boys broke off and began to play with a ball and run around. And after a bit more I tired of playing the flute and desired to play the lute instead. So I swung my lute down from my shoulder and began to play a happy song and another. Before I knew it the time had passed and I needed to go eat dinner.
I joined the company of old men for Gelfin and a handful of other halflings had joined Illihambur in a circle around the campfire not very different from the meal I had with the dwarves the day before. Illihambur was seated on my right hand and Gelfin was seated at my left and a plate of food was brought to me but this time more like the food I was accustomed to from my home with chicken and green sprouts and potatoes. While we ate Illihambur and Gelfin talked about their affairs since they had last seen one another.
At an appropriate break in the conversation I asked Gelfin how long he had lived here. He replied he had lived there all his life. I asked how long had his family lived there. He said his family went back two generations before him at this hamlet and he didn’t know anything about the family’s history before that. I asked if had an official station or if his conduct as a leader in the community was unofficial. He said after a moment’s though that he supposed that he was the unofficial mayor of the hamlet.
I wanted to joke around with him and begin my next question with “Well, your honor”, but remembering my training I did not, for it could cause offense if he didn’t understand my meaning, so rather than joke around with him as I might joke with my close childhood friends, I asked how often he received visitors. He responded that he had talked with a group of dwarves only two days previous and before that he had talked with a group of soldiers three or four days before that. He thought and said, “I suppose I meet outsiders here about twice a week.”
I continued with a slight grin, “And how often do bards come through?” And he stopped short of putting a fork full in his mouth and said, “Well there are bards, and then there are Bards.” I wasn’t sure what he meant by that but I thought I might so I wished to clarify the point and said, “Do you mean minstrels and Bards?” “Yes”, he replied, “That’s it. There are minstrels and bards. And I suppose except for you fellows”, and he pointed at my service logo on one of my pouches, “I almost never see bards come through here. But many caravans have a fellow that plays an instrument well or not so well, and some fellows that think they can sing. Unfortunately these fellows lack one important facet in their musical career, even if they have musical talent, and that is understanding what is popular among our culture.”
“Bards”, he went on, “know a greater variety of music and they know what is appropriate around children and women. But these minstrels only sing what is popular in their homeland and often sing what is popular among a band of traveling men, mostly about women and war. But I knew you were not one of these fellows right away when I saw your insignia. And so I asked that you come spend time with our children for I am a music lover myself but I don’t want inappropriate music around my family and friends.”
Changing the subject a little, I asked, “Do any of your villager friends here travel?” And Gelfin replied, “We travel twice a year to the County Seat only a half day’s travel further on this road. We go to sell our crops and to buy seed. Beyond that we might travel to the County Seat for a religious festival now and then. But we are happy and content with what we have here. We delight in our gardens and the happiness of our friends. And we have plenty of friends”, looking at Illihambur, “that come to see us so we don’t have to travel to go see them.”
Illihambur broke in, “Ah yes, well said my friend. And I have something for you.” And Illihambur reached in his leather bag and pulled out a pouch and handed it to me to pass to Gelfin. And Gelfin receiving it had a wide grin for he knew what was inside. And he reached inside a pocket and produced a bag almost identical to the one Illihambur passed him, but his bag held little, and he passed it back to me. And taking the pouch, I felt it contained coins, and I handed it to Illihambur. And Illihambur took it and said, “Thank you.” And about this time we were all finished eating so Gelfin said to one of his men, “Bring up a cask for us to share, and have my son bring my lute.” And one of his companions stood up and walked away.
“Your lute?” I said. “I’m glad to hear you play too.” “Oh yes”, he replied, “I have been playing for many years, which is why I am the unofficial mayor I suppose.” And the children were getting up from their meal and the boys resumed the game with the ball. One of our young men came over and asked Illihambur a question softly, and Illihambur nodded to him so he approached Gelfin. He had his pouch with him and asked if he might buy a second cask for his friends to enjoy this evening. Gelfin said sure and he gestured to the fellow bringing a cask to the campfire. And Gelfin asked him to sell a cask to this young man and bring it up. And they spoke briefly and the young man indicated where the other young men were sitting and they shook hands before the young man headed to his friends and the halfling turned round and headed back to a building.
So all the halflings produced tankards and some women brought tankards to the old men in our company and I had my camping mug. And Gelfin received his lute from a young halfling I presumed to be his son, took it and began to check the tuning. The fellow next to Gelfin picked up Gelfin’s tankard and walked over to fill it while he prepared to play, and the fellow on Illihambur’s right picked up Illihambur’s tankard and stepped over and did not see a tankard sitting near me and stopped. Gelfin noted something was amiss and glanced over in my direction and he snickered a little and said to me with a grin, “Bene, may I call you Bene? Ah, good. Bene, we would like to give you a proper tankard for your journeying. Drinking ale from a copper mug isn’t the proper way for friends to spend time together, for we know not how much time we will have and we want you to enjoy the time you spend with us.” So I guess I sat there with a look of surprise because Illihambur said, “I believe Bene means ‘Thank you very much.’” So Illihambur’s man walked off with two tankards but returned with three. The one he brought for me was made mostly of wood and was fashioned like a tiny barrel. It was made in the same fashion as the tankards the halflings all used and Gelfin said this was to keep the ale from getting a disagreeable taste that can come from metal. I noticed that all the tankards in Illihambur’s company were made of fired pottery with ornate colorings. And I thought to myself how long I had been drinking ale from iron tankards in taverns when I grew up around men in Confernos. I said to Gelfin, “Well it is time I turned over a new leaf then.”
And all the men and halflings began to stand, and one of the halflings raised his tankard and said “To the Emperor! May he live for justice and protect the citizens of the Empire all his long days.” And the men and halflings all said, “To the Emperor!” and drank from their tankards. And one of the men said, “And to the Empress! That she will bring beauty to all these lands.” And the men and halflings said, “To the Empress!” and they all drank again. And then there was a pause, and Illihambur used his tankard to indicate it was my turn, so I stammered a moment and then I said, “To the bards in the service! Let them remember to share their music always with a glad heart.” And everyone raised the tankards and said “To the bards in the Service!” and this time everyone finished their tankards, except for myself, for I had not taken a deep enough drink during the first two toasts. So the men and halflings sat down, and I took a final drink from my tankard and sat down, but Gelfin remained standing with his lute, and he began to play. A halfling came by a moment later and picked up my tankard and Illihambur’s and returned a short while with them filled. And I sat and listened to Gelfin and admired his technique on the lute.
Gelfin’s lute was naturally smaller than mine and so it was tuned to a higher pitch. He played using a string picking technique a bit different from the one I used. He played very clean indicating that he both had the time and desire to practice often. And his musical structure was not the simple methods used by remote provincials or minstrel hacks. He had both talent and training and I wanted to know how he came to be so well educated. Gelfin played quiet ballads and a couple love songs before wanting to sit back down. He sang with a good clear tenor voice and this intrigued me further. So as he sat down, I asked, “Gelfin, that was very fine playing and singing. Where did you receive your training?” And Gelfin smiled to me and said “Thank you sir, but it is time for you to play and not time for me to talk.”
And so I grabbed my lute and stood up, and I searched my memory for the right tunes, and I began to play a ballad of a brave halfling warrior who traveled in the company of dwarves and defeated a dragon with the help of his company in a far away land. And as I reached the first chorus Gelfin joined in with his clear tenor voice and sang harmony with me as everyone enjoyed the music. It was very beautiful in the night air with only the insects making their rhythmic noise in the background. All the women stopped their fussing about, and the young children stopped their playing and the boys stopped wrestling over their ball and everyone sat transfixed listening to the music and the pop of the logs burning in the fire. And when it was over, I was very sorry that it was. It was the best feeling I had for better than a month. And so I turned to Gelfin and I bowed to him and removed my hat with a flourish and said, “That was very beautiful indeed, my friend. When I can, I will make this village a stop as I travel through these parts in the service.” And Gelfin nodded his head and extended his hand and said “And we will have ale together each time you do.” And with that I cleared my mind and began to play another tune.
I rose early with the company but my head was not clear for I had enjoyed plenty of ale the previous evening. I gathered my things and packed my horse. Next I sat down with the young men to enjoy breakfast and tea.
Gelfin came out to speak to me and to Illihambur and I asked him what I could give him for the tankard and he said it was no bother. We shook hands and I said that I would be back to learn about singing and playing from him. He smiled and said he looked forward to that.
A short time later we mounted up and began our ride to the County Seat, Stonebridge. We rode past several more halfling farms and I recognized some of the farmers from our gathering the previous evening. I played my lute as we rode and observed the people and the countryside.
We arrived at the County Seat and even though it was near midday there was no mistaking this was our destination because there was a well fashioned stone bridge over a brook that ran alongside the near edge of the town. And for a County Seat this was a small settlement so I knew I was near the frontier.
Illihambur rode up and asked me to ride to the head of the column with him. As we rode, he reviewed some information I should share with the governor of Stonebridge. He said the path we used went over the stone bridge at Verde Brook, not the main road. He reminded me that we met and ate noon meal with Dravok, the master of the Seven Guilds from the Sword Mountains. And he also reminded me that he was traveling into southern Confernos on business with seven warriors and carts.
Illihambur then told me there was a protocol in use at this settlement by order of the governor. All adventurers were required to surrender their weapons at the town limits upon their first visit and they would be taken to the governor’s mansion. I would receive an invitation to dine with the governor at the evening meal and after this meal, if I had not offended the governor or disturbed his advisors, I would receive my weapons back and be given a conditional license to carry weapons in Stonebridge. But since I was in the service already, I would be given an exception and not required to surrender my weapons. However, to receive this allowance I would have to produce my credentials and observe the formal protocols as I did when I met Dravok. Since I was going to stay over in Stonebridge the company would continue on after undertaking some business so we would soon be parted.
At this, Illihambur raised his hand for the company to stop. He dismounted and walked leading his horse forward. He used a stick and he drew something on the ground I did not recognize. He beckoned me forward so that I could take a good look. I looked down and saw some design like a glyph. Illhambur said if he ever needed to contact me by message or messenger, this symbol would certify that the message was authentic from him. He stated again that he did business here regularly so we would cross paths from time to time. But while our country used this network of emissaries, his country employed him in a similar role. This is why he knew what sort of thing to teach you as we rode through the countryside together. He hoped I would pledge myself not to betray his confidence and report him as a spy to our governor, and for this we would agree to work together sharing information if we believed it was necessary. He said he already had pledges from several bards in the service but could not share names at this time (although I was certain he meant Andante as well as others). And so I pledged to him that I would not betray his confidence if he would do the same for me in his country, should I ever need to journey there. And I pledged to work together sharing information and added that unless I heard otherwise, only Andante would know of anything I learned from Illihambur. And he nodded to me and stamped out his design in the dirt. He reached in his saddlebag and produced a pouch of fine supple leather holding something less than a half-quart of substance and I knew it was dried Tocco leaf. He handed the pouch to me and said it would do for about twenty bowls. And I took it gladly and reached back and placed it in my saddlebag. And I asked him what I could pay him for the meals and the pipe he gave me and all the extra help. Illihambur said there was no need. He was sure if I were to stay in a town with a tavern I could earn enough to pay for my room and meals and his company was sufficiently enriched by my presence that he was glad to share these gifts with me. Not wishing to insult him I accepted his generosity and leaned down and clasped his hand looking him in the eye and said, “Thanks. I look forward to my next chance to travel with your company.” And in a mock Dwarven accent he said “Aye.”
Illihambur mounted his horse and motioned for the caravan to continue forward. A moment later we were riding over the bridge and I heard the loud “clip clop” of the horses on the stonework of the bridge. At the other side there were three guards. We rode slowly up to them and they indicated with a hand wave for us to stop. We stopped and dismounted. The better dressed guard said to us, “State your business.” And Illihambur said “I am the master of this company of merchants travelling back to our home in Colorava. Here are my credentials.” And he reached inside his saddlebag and produced his leather-bound letter bearing an official seal allowing him to do business in Confernos. He gave it to the leader who returned it only after an instant. The leader said to him, “We’ve met and your company may pass the town unhindered. Do you still abide the regulations?” Illihambur said, “Yes, we will abide.”
Turning to me the leader said, “You on the other hand are not a member of this company and I don’t recall we’ve met, have we?” I said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” With that I made my practiced bow as instructed and produced my credentials. And he took my credentials and opened them and quickly closed the booklet and returned them to me. He said, “Counselor, I must ask you to stay while a messenger reports your arrival to the magistrate’s steward. They will send someone for you. Please let my sentry lead your horse to the shade. Take anything you want from your horse and I beg that you will come rest inside while we wait.” I nodded to him and reached over and took my journal from the saddlebag since I was already carrying my purse, my lute and my credentials. He indicated to the doorway of the building immediately to our left which was some sort of guard house with bars over the windows and a very heavy wooden door with iron fittings.
Stepping inside it took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the light. Four guards inside immediately stood when they saw me enter, and they looked to their leader, who I began to believe was just a sergeant. He looked at one man and said “We have a new emissary from the Emperor, Binny-uh what.” I removed my hat and said “Bene-Timber.” The sergeant went on, “Please go report to the Steward and have someone sent down to receive the Emissary.” And with that the guard grabbed his hat and left. “Counselor, if you would care to sit at this desk while we wait? May I bring you cool water?” I replied “Yes, that would be nice, sergeant, is it?” “Oh, yes sir. Sorry sir. I am Sergeant Trent, sir.” I sat in the chair behind the desk and placed my journal, my credentials and my hat on the desk. I then pulled my lute around and adjusted myself so I would be comfortable while I played and we waited. A large cup of water was set before me and I had a drink before tuning my lute.
Deciding to be gracious, I asked one fellow if he had a song on his mind. “Oh, what sir? Oh, no sir.” He replied. So, I nodded and asked the next fellow. And he replied, “Oh, anything you want to play sir would be fine with me.” And I nodded. And so, I decided to play a bright tune often heard at festivals and other outdoor celebrations. As I played, I tried to size up each of the men there with me. They were clearly uncomfortable with a real official in their midst. It seemed Sergeant Trent was the most uncomfortable. My playing did set the other men at ease but it didn’t appear the sergeant could relax. I began to think I was sitting in his chair.
Completing the first song, I asked if they could suggest another, and one fellow spoke up. “Could you play The Elven Maiden?” I said “Of course.” And so, I played and sang The Elven Maiden for them. This continued to put them at ease. And so I played and sang another two songs before there was a knock on the door. The sergeant opened the door and the fellow on the other side said something and the sergeant said “Very well. Wait outside and fetch water for his horse.” And the sergeant closed the door and turned to me and waited with an expectant look on his face. I stopped playing and glanced up. He said, “It should only be a few more minutes, sir.” And so I played another song or two.
There came two crisp knocks on the door and it opened. In stepped a soldier dressed in armor and a ceremonial tunic, red with a yellow border, that came down below his waist. He waited for his eyes to adjust and I stood up. He glanced around and found me and bowed a short bow from the waist and said, “I am Bartholomew, servant to the Captain of the Guard, Sir Martinex, in the service of the Governor, Lord Ballinor, Magistrate of Stonebridge. I am to escort you to the Governor’s Mansion presently.” I took hold of my hat with my right hand and bowed deeply at the waist with a flourish and replied, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor. Please lead on.” I reached down and took a drink of water finishing the cup. I grabbed my journal and credentials from the desk and followed Bartholomew outside.
Once outside, I found my horse and placed my journal and credentials back in the saddlebag. I asked Bartholomew if it would make him uncomfortable to lead my horse so that I could play the lute while we walked. He did not mind so I asked him to lead the way. We walked up the main street over fine crushed stone so I didn’t hear a loud “clip clop” this time. I played another bright festival tune as we walked and the townsfolk all took notice of the minstrel walking up the street with the governor’s servant. I asked what the buildings were as we passed by and he informed me of each building owner, whether it was a residence or a business, and what the business would be. It was clear for any of the shops for they had easily identifiable signs out. And a few you could tell by the smell even if you couldn’t see.
We rounded a corner to the left where this street met another main street and I could immediately see where we were going. A large building on the right-hand side of the street with enormous white columns supporting a shallow porch two to three stories high was clearly the most impressive building in the town. Unlike the other structures I had passed, this was all masonry construction. There was a porch three steps raised from the road, which fed into two extra large doors on the front, with glazed windows on either side. The ground immediately around the building was covered in green grass, obviously cared for by someone that knew their craft. There were two sentries on the porch bearing long pole arms. I noticed a temple and shrine just a bit beyond on the road to the left side, and these were also surrounded by luxurious green grass. I asked Bartholomew, “Who is the Temple dedicated to?” He replied, “The Goddess of the Harvest, for this is an immense agricultural district in the Empire.” “Ah, yes.” I replied.
And we walked to the front of the palace and he asked that I wait in the shade of the porch while he delivers my horse to a stable boy. He disappeared with my horse around the corner and reappeared a moment later. The two guards as stiff as statues while I waited for Bartholomew were almost too tempting for me, for I wanted to try my best jokes on them, but I feared if they were to break they may be severely punished, which I did not want. Bartholomew reappeared and we went inside. He asked that I wait for him to fetch the Steward and asked if I needed anything. I said simply, “I am fine Bartholomew. Please go see the Steward.” And he disappeared again.
While I waited, I wondered how it was that I was being treated like a Lord. Could it be that the Emperor expected such behavior toward the lowest officers in his service that I would be accorded such deference? Or was this only because I was so far from the dozens, no hundreds, of high-ranking officers where a lieutenant is seen a dozen times walking by before breakfast but Colonels and Generals are uncommon?
A thin man with poor posture and pale skin came through a doorway and smiled at me and stepped another three steps toward me. He bowed at the waist and looked up extending his hand saying, “I am Cottorn, steward to the Magistrate, Lord Ballinor.” I returned his bow and took his hand firmly saying, “And I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary to the Emperor.” I continued, “As you well know I must need to see the Magistrate.” He replied, “Please come this way so we may sit and talk, Bene-Timber.” And so I followed him through the doorway on the right and down a corridor into an office, most certainly his office, past a scribe busy at his desk, who stood up most suddenly upon seeing me that I’m sure he gained a notable bruise on his leg judging by the expression on his face an the awful noise he made. Cottorn held open the door for me and I stepped inside the office and he followed directly closing the door behind him. He indicated a large wooden chair near his desk inviting me to sit down. He placed his hat on a peg near the door and turned to me. “Your hat sir?” And I handed him my hat, which he placed on another peg. He stepped by and behind his desk and said, “Would it please you if we dispensed with formalities, sir?” I replied, “Certainly, I am new to the service but I am no poff.”
He relaxed and sat down in his chair. He went into his desk and produced a box of rolled Tocco leaves, took one out for himself and offered one to me. I took one and asked that I might have a tall cup of cold water. He replied, “Of course.” He stood and went to the door, opened it slightly and said something and closed the door. “In only a moment.” He returned to his desk, sat down and reached for a candle already lit on a stand to light his Tocco leaf. I accepted the candle and lit my own. He reclined a bit and blew a great cloud in the air. There was a knock at the door and he said “Come.” in a loud voice. In stepped the scribe with a tray holding two large glasses of water and a large pitcher made of silver. He placed it on Cottorn’s desk as he indicated, handed me one glass and then handed the other to Cottorn.
I took a good drink from the glass and looked at his desk, when he realized and said, “Please, go ahead.” And I placed the glass on his desk. I said, “I’ve been on the road all morning and I need to wash the dust from my throat.” He took another long pull on his leaf and waved it as if to say, “Of course.” Then he said, “You’re new. And you’re early. We expected to see Andante in another two or three days.” And I took my own draw of my leaf and replied, “Yes, I only received my credentials this past week. You say Andante will be here in two or three days?” Cottorn replied, “Yes, that is when we expect to see him, why?” “I saw him immediately before I left the capitol and he gave no indication he would be traveling this way so soon.” Cottorn replied, “Well that is when we expect to see him. He may come or he may not come. We are not his master. I am glad you have arrived in good condition. May I see your credentials?” I jerked in my chair and exclaimed, “Lizard Feathers! I forgot to retrieve them from my saddlebag.” Cottorn grinned and replied, “No bother, I’ll have them brought to you.” And he stood and went back to the door, opened it and said something and closed the door again. He returned to his seat and said, “He’ll be along in a bit. Except for forgetting your credentials folder, you have presented yourself perfectly. I wanted you to know this because while people don’t say these things to your face, many, ahem, friends of the court … watch for breaches of protocol and delight in making gossip about these things. In this mansion such errors take a long time to matter but there are other governors with less on their minds than Lord Ballinor that might choose to make too much of small errors.” “Thank you.” I replied. “I traveled with a caravan from the capitol and I was called on to settle a very minor dispute between the master, Illihambur, and a dwarf traveling the opposite direction. I gave my proper introduction as required and it seemed they all thought it a great joke.” Cottorn thought a moment and said, “You did what you should have done. Remember you were representing the Emperor and those provincials can think what they want. Did you say, Illihambur?” “Yes, I came in his caravan to Stonebridge.” At this he stood up quickly and went back to the door. He opened it and saw nobody there, he called back to me and said, “Please, wait here just a moment and I shall be right back.” And he disappeared and closed the door.
I stood up and walked to the window to look out. I caught sight of a few members of the caravan in the street and I could see they were talking with some townsfolk, presumably trading for something. Then I saw a servant approach the caravaners and spoke briefly and then paid for two bags of Tocco leaf and turned back to the mansion. I took another pull on my leaf and I heard someone knock on the door. I walked a few steps and opened the door and the scribe was standing there holding my credentials. He obviously didn’t expect me to answer the door and stood dumb. I reached out my hand and said “Thank you.” He released the credentials into my hand and went back to sit at his desk. He arranged a paper, dipped his pen and began to write. I was about to close the door when Cottorn stepped into view carrying two bags of Tocco leaf. I smiled at him and he came swiftly into the study and closed the door. “Ah”, he said, “you have your credentials. May I?” And he sat behind his desk, set the two supple leather pouches on the desk and reached out a hand for my folder. He looked at the cover, then opened the folder and admired the certificate within, closed it and returned it to me.
Cottorn took another draw on his leaf and said, “This Tocco is not bad, but there is nothing to compare with the Tocco sold by Illihambur. I should like to send a wagon to his country and fill it with dirt from his fields so that I could grow such Tocco here. You did buy some for yourself, did you not?” “Yes”, I replied, “I have a pouch for myself at his insistence.” “Very good!”, Cottorn replied. I didn’t want to tell him Illihambur gave me a pouch full.
So Cottorn continued, “Why did a half-elf want to get into the service?” “Where do you hail from?” I replied, “I grew up in a town in the empire near the Elven wood called Allenhalvania. Have you heard of it?” Cottorn replied, “Allenhalvania, of course. But the town name is?” I nodded and said, “Tahgrum. It is a comparatively cosmopolitan town being on the main route to the Elven lands and beyond.” Cottorn said, “Is it now? What sort of goods do you trade there?” “We hunt many animals in the wood so we trade skins and we attract some Elven craftsmen so we have some fine metalwork, weapons and armor fashioned there as well. The Elves trade with us their potions, garments made of wonderful fabrics noted for both their texture and coloration and fine jewelry. We supply paper and metals to them which comes from elsewhere in the Empire. What goods does this province trade?” Cottern replied, “We are mainly an agricultural district so we send large quantities of grain and beans to the Empire. We also have sheep farms so we have more wool than we need and we have a logging settlement that produces finished boards beyond our needs, but the Empire looks to us to feed a great many people. For these things the Empire sends us dyes which we use on our wool and iron which we make tools and hardware for our buildings. But mostly the Empire sends us soldiers on their way to somewhere else.” It didn’t take any diplomatic skill to detect his derision toward the Empire using Stonebridge as a base for soldiers moving about.
“Well sir, I must get to my business.” I continued. “As you know I am obligated to see the Magistrate. Are you the man to see about an appointment?” He responded, “Yes, I can arrange for your introduction. As a matter of fact, that is quite a simple matter with Lord Ballinor. He holds a dinner each evening where the important figures in the town discuss events. He expects you to attend this dinner tonight because you arrived today. After today, he will let you know if you are to attend dinner other nights. The first night of every visit you are expected to attend the dinner. You are also expected to let Lord Ballinor know when you are leaving the town and where you expect to go. Beyond that, you are free to visit in the town as you like. Since you are new, I may like to spend more time with you so that we may become better acquainted.”
“OK, what time should I arrive for dinner?” I asked. “Six o’clock is when everyone gathers but we probably will talk a bit before we eat around six-thirty”, he said. I replied, “Very well. Is there anything else I should know?” The steward said, “Remember your credentials, and I recommend you bring your lute. Until then, I recommend the Green Hawk, the inn and tavern you passed on the left immediately before you turned onto this street. They have a warm hearth, sturdy tables and good ale for a crowd that would likely be very generous if you should want an audience tonight.” “Well, thank you very much, sir.” I replied. “And where will I find my horse?” Cottern replied, “See a guard at the door and he will have a servant see to your needs, but we will need to finish these”, holding up a bit more of his rolled leaf, “before we leave the office.”
I stood and took a step to the window to look outside while I took a draw on my leaf. Cottern stood also and turned to face the window. “How long has this town been here?” I asked. “The town was established thirty-two years ago after the treaty was signed. The powers in the capitol recognized the importance of this region for the farmland and its proximity to the orc settlements far to the west. Strategically they wish to keep the western orcs at bay while forces focus on the orcs to the north.” “So”, I responded, “that covers the majority of the political issues in play in this region?” “Yes”, he said, “That’s about it.”
I finished my leaf and then finished my water. I placed the glass on the tray. Cottern stepped passed me and took my hat from the peg and handed it to me. “I trust you know your way?” And I replied, “Yes, thank you. And thank you for the leaf and the advice on lodging. I guess I’ll see you around six.” He opened the door for me and said, “Good day to you, sir.” With this I stepped out of his office and the scribe stood up more carefully this time. I walked past him and down the hallway to the main door.
I saw a guard with apparently little to do so I asked, “Is there someone that may assist me in getting my things over to the Inn?” He straightened up a little and replied, “I’ll have someone with you in only a moment, sir.” And with that he disappeared down the left corridor. He returned with a boy trailing behind and he pointed to me (which was a breach of protocol I elected to overlook since there were no other officials about). The boy walked up to me cautiously and said, “Sir, may I be of any assistance?” He was clearly scared to be talking to someone he didn’t know and I thought I would cheer the little fellow up. “Good day, young man. I am Bene-Timber, a traveler from the east, and I would appreciate a guide who may show me about this fair settlement, Stonebridge. First if you could guide me to the stable where they have my horse.” “Your horse sir?” he said with a look of slight panic on his face. The guard piped up saying, “His horse is the golden one in the barracks stables, Peter.” And Peter spun around to see the guard looking at him and then it registered, “Oh, the barracks stables. Yes! I know where that is.” And turning quickly he brushed by my and stepped back saying, “Oh sir, I’m very sorry sir. Please sir, this way.” And he spun about and headed for the door. As I turned and walked behind, one of the guards rolled his eyes as if he were embarrassed the boy could not calm down.
Stepping through the door I donned my hat and clutched my credentials in my left hand. I followed the eager boy off the porch and to the right down the street only a short distance. We passed a small building and then the stable was set back from the road. Like the architecture in most of this town, it had a low stone foundation that rose about two to three feet from the ground, with a wooden frame and plaster filled walls rising about eight feet to the sill. The roof had a modest pitch, typical of this region with not a lot and not a little snowfall each winter. The roof was finished in slate tiles and not thatch indicating it was a government structure and not a private building. Only government buildings and the very wealthy were finished with slates. The structure was painted red except for the woodwork, which was white, and the stonework, which was unpainted. There was a door for men and a wide double door for animals, and Peter stepped in through the double doors rather hurriedly. I stepped to the ‘man door’ and tried the knob. It was not locked so I opened and stepped through carefully just in case something was beyond I didn’t know about.
I removed my hat and let my eyes adjust to the light. I could hear talking in a low voice and when my eyes found the sound, I could see Peter talking to a workman wearing a dirty white apron, a pale blue work shirt and brown trousers. He had shoes on his feet but he used a piece of rope for his belt. He was a little thick around the middle and balding and he looked to be helping Peter with some advice. I looked at the ground around me, for I was in a stable wearing good boots, and stepped closer to the pair. I looked the man in the eye and introduced myself, “I am Bene-Timber. I arrived with the caravan and I believe the soldier led my horse over this way when I went to see the steward.” The man straightened up and said, “Yes sir. We have your horse right here”, and he waved behind himself to his left (my right). “What may I help you with sir? Is your horse in need of attention? A blacksmith?” “Well, I need my saddlebags from the horse, and the horse does need to be cared for after four days travel here from the capitol.” The man immediately stepped toward the horse and I followed. Peter followed the both of us. He reached the stall where my horse was placed, turned and faced me indicating my saddlebags were removed and hanging from the low wooden divider between stalls. The saddle had also been removed and placed in the back of the stall on a piece of wood made for it. The saddle blankets were airing out on a rack and the bridle was hanging beside the saddle.
I said, “Well I see you have already been seeing to my horse. I presume you will have him brushed watered and fed?” “Yes sir, I will.” I replied, “Very good. I do not expect to need him today. Do you have apples to spare in this town?” He responded, a little quizzically, “Apples sir, uh, yes we do have apples at the market. Would you care for me to send Peter to bring you some apples?” “And how long”, I continued, “would it take Peter to bring us some apples?” I looked at Peter with a smile. “He stammered, “Sir, I can run and be back here with as many apples as you wish shortly.” “And how much for apples from the market today?” “I can get two for a copper, three if they’re a little small.” “Oh no, I like large apples. Well let’s see, there is my horse, and there is me, and the two of you, so you shall need two coppers I guess?” “Yes sir.” And I reached in my belt purse and handed him two coppers and said, “Well be off and bring me four good apples.” And Peter reached out and grabbed the coins and took off out the door. And I looked over to the stable hand and said “Do you have good feed for my horse?” And he replied, “Yes sir. We have plenty of feed for your horse.” “What do I owe you for the feed and your services?” “Oh, nothing sir”, he said with a little apprehension in his voice. “I can’t charge you for this. It is my job. And the feed is for all the soldiers horses and yours as well.” “OK then. But the Magistrate won’t object I hope”, and I handed him two more coppers, “For my horse is looking forward to his brushing.” And he held out his hand and I dropped the coins into it. Peter returned with four apples. I looked over them and picked one for myself. I asked Peter to pick out one. Next I asked the stable hand to pick out one, and said, “I don’t think my horse is so finicky and he will be pleased with that one.” I turned back and looked the stable hand in the eye and said, “But sir, I did not get your name.” “Oh yes, sorry sir, it’s just I’m not used to, well I usually only care for the animals, uh, sorry, Ben, sir, that’s my name, Ben.” And I nodded my head and said, “I am glad to make your acquaintance, Ben.”
I looked at the saddle bags and gaged that Peter was up to it. “Peter, could you get those bags and come show me to the Green Hawk?” “Yes sir”, he replied a little more at ease with his situation. And as he reached and pulled the bags over his shoulder I said, “Good day, Ben.” And with that Peter and I headed for the door, although I again used the ‘man door’ to exit, unlike Peter.
Again in the street, it took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the light for the sun was very bright. And Peter waited for me in the street and I stepped forward. He turned and headed up the street with my saddlebags over his shoulder and the apple in his hand. I would have pulled my lute around if I were not carrying my credentials in one hand. So, I took a bite from my apple and nodded to the people that walked by as we made our way. I passed by two of the young men from the caravan who looked over toward me with broad smiles and they sang “Boing, boing, boing”, as I went by, and I smiled and took another bite.
And presently we arrived at the Inn with the wooden sign of a green bird silhouette. Peter took hold of the door and opened it for me and followed me inside. I removed my hat and waited for my eyes to adjust to the light and took in the place. There was a massive fireplace on the opposite wall. Heavy wooden tables were arranged in three rows aligned with the wall to my right. On my far left there was a bar with several stools and where it ended there were a few more tables. Toward the far wall a stairway led up to the second floor. There was an open area and a balcony and the stair led to a third level, where it appeared the rooms would be.
I stepped over toward the bar where a man was busying himself with some cleaning and I said to him, “Good day my friend. I am Bene-Timber, musician, messenger and traveler from the east. I would that you may agree to provide me a room for a night or two.” He looked up from his work with a scowl, for what reason I knew not, and said in a gruff manner, “Yea, well …”, and he paused, “well, what do we have here?” And I bowed at the waist with a flourish, “Bene-Timber.” He started to say something again, but a quick glance at the boy made him stop, and then he restarted, “Well”, he paused, “I’m sorry but I wasn’t expecting anyone, er, business this early, ah, sir. You say you would like a room?” “Yes”, I replied with a smile, “Your establishment”, and I waved my hand through the air, “has been recommended to me by the Steward, Cottern.” “My establish …”, he paused, “Oh yes, Cottern, you say”, and he frowned, checked himself and looked at me with a smile, “Yes, I have a room that I hope will suit you, sir.” “Boy”, he continued, “take those to the room at the end of the hallway at the top of the stair where the sound of most travelers will not bother my guest.” And Peter knew the place and began to take the saddlebags up. And he looked again at me and I believe this time he noticed my lute slung across my back. “So”, he said, “Will you want to play for your supper like the others?” I furrowed my brow and then brightened up and replied, “What is the usual arrangement for … a minstrel?” He replied, “Minstrel, … Did you say Cottern? OK, minstrel, well, how long will you play tonight?” I replied carefully not knowing what he was aiming at and wishing to make the best impression, “I can see you are uneasy because you don’t know me. I do not wish to take advantage of you because I know the Steward. Tell me my friend, what do you charge for the room at the end of the hallway, the best room that you want to give to me so the other guests won’t bother me?” “I, uh”, he paused again placing his hand on his chin, “I would, uh, like to get a silver piece …” I cut him off, “Here”, and I flipped him a silver piece immediately, “and I would appreciate it if I could play this evening when I return from dinner. In this way you may have your full price for the room without any risk that I am a charlatan or jester, unable to entertain your guests to your satisfaction. And I further wish to give you this guarantee … How much for a tankard of your best ale?” He was now standing almost stunned by the change of events, for it did appear he thought I wished to weasel out of paying for my room and a meal tonight posing as an accomplished minstrel. “I uh, would like two coppers for that sir.” “And so it shall be!” I replied with a broad smile. And I fished out four coppers. I slapped the coppers on the bar and looked at him smiling. “If it please you, I will pay now for two tankards of your best ale tonight. When I return I will walk to the hearth and I would like the first tankard brought to me, and I will drink from it and begin to play. When you think your guests have had enough of me, bring me the second tankard. I agree to finish my song and take the tankard and sit down. I won’t be the least bit of a bother to you or your guests for I have been here a few hours and I already have taken a liking to Stonebridge.” And when I was finished he reached out and took the coppers and replied, “Well thank you very much. How can I say no to this agreement?” And after a moment of silence I said, “But, my friend, as I have taken all the risk, I would like to make it clear that I may keep all the coins offered in appreciation for my time this evening. I have a stout heart and no fear that I shall recover my coin, but I do not wish to take advantage of you, so if I am able to stay on, we shall discuss terms for more nights by the hearth if you like.” “That sounds fair enough.” He replied. And I asked, “I do not believe you shared your name, sir?” And he replied, “I am Tony, er, uh, Anthony, but you may call me Tony, please.” And he extended his hand and we shook hands. I bowed a little head bow and said, “I shall go up, wash the road off and rest a bit. Please let me know when it is five o’clock.” And he replied, “Yes, sir.” And with that done, I turned and headed up the stair. Meanwhile Peter had come back down the stairs and left.
At the top of the stairs I walked to the end of the hallway and opened the door and looked in at my accommodations. The bed did appear to have fresh linens and the floor was swept with a rug. There was a coat rack in the corner to my right where I hung my hat. A table in the opposite corner had two chairs. I walked across the room and set my lute in one of the chairs and placed my credentials on the table where my saddlebags had been placed. I walked back to the coat rack and removed my rapier and dagger and belt, which I placed neatly in the corner at the coat rack. Next I reached around and unfastened my leather armor. I pulled it free and set it upright on the floor at the foot of the bed. I stepped back to the table, and removed my boots and my socks and placed them neatly next to the dresser. I retrieved a pair of stockings and my better shoes and placed them on the floor by the foot of the bed. I removed my padded shirt and my street shirt and stepped in front of the dresser. There was a large bowl and a pitcher of water as expected, I poured the water into the bowl and washed myself off. I hung my street shirt over the back of the other chair, laid the padded shirt by my armor and removed my pants. These I folded neatly and placed in the seat of the chair. I removed my undergarment and folded that neatly. I fished out a set of good clothing suitable for dinner with the Magistrate and laid everything on the bed. I returned to the dresser and finished washing myself off. I took a towel that was left for me and dried myself off. I stepped over to the bed and put on fresh clothes but not anything on my feet. I stepped to the window and opened it just a bit to feel the air. I decided I would like to leave the door ajar so a breeze could refresh the room. I stepped out into the hallway and down the first bit of stairs to the landing. I called out for Tony and he stepped into view. “Would you be able to send someone to handle my wash?” And he replied, “Yes sir, certainly.” And I replied, “How much?” And Tony said, “No sir, all for a silver piece, there is no need.” And I nodded and returned to the room.
Upon entering the room I decided to lay on the bed and relax. A short time later I could hear the steps of someone rising the stairs. There was a soft knock at the door and I stood up and said, “Please come in.” A maid stepped in and asked what she could take for the wash. I smiled at her and she blushed. I picked up my pants, shirt, padded shirt, under garment and socks and placed them in her basket. “This is what I need washed out. I have been on the road four days. Could you send someone to get the water in the basin and bring me a fresh pitcher?” She curtseyed and said, “Yes, m’lord. I shall see to it for you.” And she pulled the door behind her as she returned down the hall. And I returned to the bed.
There was a knock on the door which startled me from a light sleep. I must gave dozed off and I panicked for only a moment until I could see it was still quite light out the window. I had not missed my appointment for dinner. I stood up and said, “Please, come in.” A boy came in and he was startled to see me. “What is the matter young man?” He replied, “Your ears. I was surprised to see you are an elf. Nobody …” I cut him off, “I am a half-elf, from Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania, but still inside Confernos. And you are from around here, I guess?” “Yes, yes sir I am.” He replied. “I’m here with your water pitcher sir.” “Oh”, I said, “Set it down and please take the bowl away and bring it back empty. What time do you think it is?” He said, “It is getting near five o’clock sir. A few workmen are beginning to come into town.” “Good”, I replied, “Thank you, uh?” He stared at me for a moment and raised his brow and said, “Timmy. I’m Timmy.” And I said, “Wait a moment”, and I retrieved a copper piece and handed it to him. He said, “Thank you sir.” And left pulling the door behind him.
I went to my saddlebags and retrieved a wash rag and dipped it in the pitcher water. Then I took hold of my belt and rapier strap and began to wipe all the road dust from them. Oh how I kicked myself for falling asleep before attending to this. At least I didn’t need to wash and polish my boots. I would wear my fine shoes instead. Finishing this chore, I placed the rag by the window. Then I dipped my hand in the pitcher and sprinkled a few drops of water into my face and rubbed it in. I combed my hair and tied a piece of cloth round my head at the hairline. I pulled on my socks and slipped into my shoes. I stood in front of the mirror and checked myself out. I retrieved my rapier, belt and dagger and put them on, returned to the mirror and checked myself once again. I then took the lute in my hands and pulled the chair around so I had the best view out the window. I played a bit of finger picking music as I thought about the formal customs I should remember tonight. Playing this way helped to settle my nerves so I could think and concentrate more clearly. After a little while a soft knock came and I said “Come in.” without rising. The maid stepped in with the bowl and I nodded at the dresser without stopping my playing. She stepped to the dresser and placed the empty bowl on the surface, picked up the pitcher and placed it in the bowl as was the proper fashion, and turned and faced me. She didn’t say a sound and I realized she was almost transfixed listening to this music. I stopped playing, because a thought crept into my mind that I shouldn’t dare act upon, and I said to her, “You must go now, for I have some preparations to make before I visit the Magistrate tonight.” And she curtsied and left, pulling the door closed behind her.
I resumed playing and smiled because I had forgot how else that music might affect people. They taught us a few of these songs in the college and we practiced them for a good reason, but hearing them so often I forgot all the various powers that were woven into the music. My effort to focus my thoughts tonight overcame her and she was focused on something else so that I had to break the spell.
I played another tune and looked out the window. The streets were becoming busy now. Workmen were returning from the fields and some women were moving about for one reason or another. I decided to go down into the street and make my way lazily to the Governor’s Mansion. I wanted to practice influencing people with the secondary goal of filling this tavern with guests tonight. I picked up my credentials and left closing the door behind me.
Arriving at the first floor I asked, “Tony, you can lock my room, yes?” “Yes, sir”, he replied. “Thank you. I must go to dinner and I shall be back in good time I hope.” And he said, “And I too sir. You are no charlatan for I could hear your music down here. Enjoy your dinner, sir.” And I donned my hat and went out the main door.
In the street people were passing by quickly with some purpose, so I wanted to see how I might affect their mood and I began to play a local festival song. Immediately folks turned their heads to see who was playing, but they mostly kept walking. When I began to sing, they slowed or stopped and gave me space to walk by slowly while I was singing and playing. I smiled at the faces and nodded to the ladies and kept singing and stepping down the street. I hoped that making an entrance coming from the Green Hawk would plant the idea in their minds that I might well come back when the sun was down to enjoy the evening.
I walked and played, nodded and smiled, until I was near the mansion. I thought there was time that I might step down to the stable and see how things were for Ben and my horse. I walked past the mansion and as I did, I could see there were a few folks following me. As I took the last few steps Ben stepped out from the stable and smiled at me. I concluded my song and there was a light applause. I bowed at the waist with a flourish and said, “Thank you, thank you folks. I am Bene-Timber, musician, traveler and messenger from the east. I hope you may join me later at the Green Hawk tonight.” And I replaced my hat and turned to speak to Ben.
“Ben, how fare you?” He replied, “Well, sir, that was some fine playing and singing.” And I said, “Is my horse all set?” He said, “Oh yes sir. He got a good rub. He’s watered and fed and enjoyed his apple, and the core of mine as well. He’s a fine animal, sir.” And I replied, “Very good, very good. Thank you for your help.” And he replied, “It was my pleasure sir, to do this for a fine generous man such as yourself.” And I bowed my head and said, “I must need go to dinner then. Excuse me.” And Ben bowed his head in reply.
And with that I turned and began playing as I strode to the mansion. Folks again listened and gave me place as I passed. I arrived at the mansion and concluded my song on the steps. I turned and bowed to the crowd and said, “I am Bene-Timber, musician, traveler and messenger from the east. Thank you for your attention but I must take my leave. Good day to you all.” I turned and entered the mansion.
Inside I looked about to see who I should speak with. There were a few folks inside the atrium and some guards, but one fellow appeared to be in a uniform but not a military man judging by his physique. He wore a tabard of red with yellow borders along the edge. The neck opening was carefully tailored with a yellow band along the inside edge, and the front of it bore a Coat-of-Arms in yellow, red, blue and green. I stepped toward him and said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor.” He replied, “My name is Lloyd Dustilorn, and I am the Herald for the Magistrate. I was told you were coming tonight. As you are the only guest tonight that has not been introduced to the Magistrate, I shall call for you last. I do hope you understand, it is my duty.” And remembering my lessons I replied, “Of course it is. No harm, and as I have been in the service a full week, I should probably not deserve any more. Do not let my forty-two years make you believe I am a veteran of these affairs.” He winked at me and replied, “Very good sir.”
And so knowing I would be last I thought I might do well to meet a few of the other guests. I stepped away from the Herald so that others might approach him if they needed and I took a fancy to one fellow and walked over to make my introduction. “Good evening sir, my name is Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor. And you are?” Extending my hand, he took it firmly in his and replied, “I am Erick, a lieutenant of the Magistrate’s guards. And where do you hail from?” “I am from Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania.” I replied. “And you?” He replied, “I am from Rangoon, where my family are prominent metal smiths. I am the second child, so here I am in the service.” “My family are hunters and make a good living in furs. I however believed at an early age I should try to make a living as a musician. If it doesn’t work out, there are still plenty of fox and deer for me to hunt back home.” Erick raised his eyebrows, “So the Elves don’t take exception to your hunting the wild animals in their wood?” “They are quite concerned,” I replied, “and we are raised in Tahgrum to understand the rules for hunting in Elven lands. If you are studious, accurate and precise about the rules, the Elves respect your hunt. No nets or dogs may be used to entrap and panic the prey. Motherhood must be respected, so if you see a nursing mother or a mother with her fawns you must leave them be and not even panic the poor beasts. Even stags and bulls may not be taken at night. And so on.” “It sounds like it is very complicated.” Erick replied. I continued, “Rangoon, I heard of this place but I don’t recall where it is.” Erick said, “Ah Rangoon, it is a lovely place. The important buildings are made of a beautiful white stone so that from a distance the city shines bright in the sunlight. If the architecture were different, I might imagine it would look like an Elven City, but I hear they don’t have cities in the same sense as we know them.” Then Erick stiffened up, “Please, here comes my captain.”
The captain stepped up. He was a tall man, broad chested with a proper military bearing. He spoke first, “Erick.” And nodded his head. Erick knew his manners and immediately introduced the fellow he was speaking with to his captain. “Sir, this is Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary to the Emperor, of uh, Tahgrum, is it?” I nodded and he continued, “Yes Tahgrum near the Elven wood. Bene-Timber, this is Lord Martinex, my captain, and Captain of the Guards of Stonebridge.” I straightened, bowed at the waist and said, “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Erick was telling me of Rangoon and the beauty of it. Where do you hail from, m’lord?” He took my hand and we shook as he stared into my eye and glanced at my ears and then looked back into my eyes. “I am from Derlin on the coast. Do you know of it?” I replied, “I regret that I have only been in the service for a week and am not so widely traveled to know of the great places throughout Confernos. I beg you, tell me of the beauty and wonders of Derlin.” He let out a short “ho” at that and then said, “Derlin is not a place of beauty and wonders my silver tonged friend. It is a place of fish and crates. Fish and crates are everywhere on the docks and in the warehouses. There is also a shipyard but little more. We receive goods from afar and have them shipped overland into Confernos. We catch fish and salt them before we ship them overland. We build ships and mend sails and make great quantities of rope. We have sailors walking through town making trouble day and night. We have rogues that try and take advantage of the sailors and anyone else when they can’t find a sailor to molest. We have a lot of things but we don’t have much beauty and wonder.” Hoping to steer the subject into something more pleasant for Lord Martinex I continued, “So you joined the service to experience a different life?” “Well, I joined because I am the second son and expected, you know, and my family had enough means to send me to the capitol for an education. I left Derlin at sixteen with a small chest of clothes and a small bag of coin to join myself to a school that could teach me to fight. That is when I had the greatest fortune to meet Lord Ballinor. We became immediate friends and he convinced me to join the college he was joining. We have been together since.”
At this time the Herald signified the Magistrate was ready for the dinner to begin and the two officers had to assemble for the entry. A dinner with a governor is a formal affair that begins with servants making the dinner hall ready. The room is swept and cleaned and the tables are arranged for the number of guests that will come. The Governor’s table is always at the North and the other tables are arranged depending on the size of the dinner. For a formal reception dinner the governor eats at one table with a few advisors and the guests sit at other tables. Places were arranged by the Steward, who had to know the right protocol for each guest. Only the governor could make exceptions and it would be a serious mistake for the Steward to place someone in the wrong spot or at the wrong table.
The primary court guests would be invited in first. They would stand unless the governor sent word that they should sit and wait. The Herald would announce the Governor and he would enter with the guests standing. After he sat, the guests could sit down. Then other guests would be announced, enter and join the dinner. This would occur in a set hierarchy so that the more senior guests would be allowed to know the names and positions of every guest lower than they were in court. And I would be last, of course.
As a Bard I knew there was no reason for me to take any offense for being recognized last. Some fools though do take offense if they believe they should be recognized ahead of other guests. Except for the occasion where the Steward makes an obvious blunder, which he knows would be a mark against him, it is very unwise to make anything over a mistake whether the guest is in the right or wrong over it. But I had the added benefit of being so new to the service I had no expectation of being senior to anyone.
And the guests filed in and I was the only guest not sent in immediately. The doors were closed and I waited. I heard the Steward announce the Magistrate and after a moment I heard the scraping of chair legs on the floor as everyone was seated. There was a tiny bell and the two great wooden doors were opened in front of me. I was standing centered with my hat in my left hand and my lute strapped to my back. I did not step forward. There were two guards on my side of the doors and two more on the other side of the doors. The Herald stood on the right-hand side just inside the doors, raised his staff, and brought it down three times, Bang, bang, bang. “My Lord Ballinor, I present Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” And he raised his staff and brought it down again, Bang. I took a few steps into the room and stopped, waiting to be recognized by the Magistrate.
From his seat he called to me, “Bene-Timber, please approach and be seated.” I stepped to the table, paused and retrieved my lute from my shoulder. A servant stepped forward and I handed him my lute and my hat. Next I sat at the only remaining seat across from the Magistrate at the table opposite him. The Magistrate turned to the Steward who said, “My Lord, Bene-Timber has presented his credentials and is certified.” Lord Ballinor turned to face the assembly and replied “Very well.” With that, servants approached and poured water for everyone while the great doors were closed behind me. I noticed there were soldiers in ceremonial tunics spaced around the room. One was behind the Magistrate in splendid armor holding a large shield with a Coat-of-Arms painted in the middle. Another just to the right of the Magistrate behind him also in splendid armor and he was holding a two-handed sword. A third soldier was behind Lord Martinex in the same splendid armor holding a large shield without a Coat-of-Arms, but painted with a red and yellow border on it. And a fourth soldier was off to Lord Martinex’s left holding a broad sword. A fifth attendant was standing in clerical robes well off to Lord Ballinor’s right. Besides these men, there were soldiers in light armor and ceremonial tunics spaced along the walls around the room. They were armed alternately with a spear or sword and shield.
After the water was poured, the Magistrate took a drink and set his goblet down. Others then began to drink from theirs as they willed. Bread was brought for everyone and speedily distributed. The Magistrate buttered a piece and pulled a piece of the roll and ate it, returning it to his bread plate. Others then ate bread as they willed. A servant entered and the commotion died down. He recited the menu for the evening; Lamb with berry sauce, rice and gravy, green beans. Servants brought out the Lamb already carved on a great platter, served the head table beginning with the Magistrate and his wife, and on down. Another servant brought a great bowl with the rice followed by a group of servants carrying gravy boats for each table. More servants came with bowls of green beans for each table. All the guests were served and the bowls were set on the tables. The platter of lamb was set on a small table in the center of the room. Next, wine was brought in, served to the Magistrate and his wife and then the other guests. Servants with water and wine waited around the room for anyone needing more. These servants held a pitcher in one hand and a dinner towel over the left forearm.
As the meal was wrapping up, the Magistrate turned to his Steward and asked if there were any formalities he needed to attend to before speaking with “Bene-Timber?” He indicated none and so the Magistrate turned to me as silence fell over the room. He began, “Bene-Timber, you are a certified Emissary. A graduate of the Bardic College?” I replied, “Yes, my lord.” He went on. “Have you traveled far?” I replied, “I have only traveled four days from the capitol here. This is my first provincial visit, my lord.” Lord Ballinor asked, “Have you any news then?” I scooted my seat back a step and said, “With my lord’s permission?” He waved his hand upwards and I stood. I stepped away from the table and faced the Magistrate. “Lord Ballinor, I travelled in the company of a merchant from Colorova, Illihambur, and learned that he was returning by this way to his own country with eleven wagons, men and families. We encountered an important Dwarf travelling to the south to a destination in Confernos. His name is Dravok, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre. He hails from the Dwarven Kingdom north of here in the Sword Mountains. I learned he is old enough to know about the time the dwarves landed here after crossing the Blue Sea. He is traveling with carts and seven warriors. Last night our company overnighted in the halfling village to the south-west and they appear in good order and spirit, one and all. I believe Andante, who has been assigned to mentor me as I complete my initial training, should be along in four days. I have no correspondence for you, my lord.”
Lord Ballinor considered what I reported and repeated, “Dravok, you say, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre, on business to the south?” I replied, “Yes, my lord.” He turned to the Steward, “You know of this already, Cottern?” The Steward replied, “Yes, my lord. The emissary has already reported this to me. I have made the appropriate notations in the logs, my lord.” “Very well.” Lord Ballinor replied. “Have you made arrangements for tonight, Bene-Timber?” I replied, “Yes, my lord. I am staying in a room in the Green Hawk, my lord.” He responded with a musical note in his voice, “Of course you are, my young bard friend. And a half-elf. Where were you born?” I responded, “I was born in Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania.” The Magistrate went on, “Well I expect you have plans for the evening so I invite you to play for us two songs and then you may take your leave.” I turned to face the servant with my lute and he stepped toward me. Lord Ballinor added, “You have my permission to carry weapons in the town as a servant of the Emperor. You need not be escorted, but I expect you to report to the Steward when you arrive and depart from the town so he may be informed about your status here.” I replied, as I raised the strap of my lute over my shoulder, “Yes, my lord.” Cottern added, “Please see me in the morning so I may make the appropriate notations in the records.” I turned and nodded to Cottern.
I checked the tuning of my lute quickly and turned to face the Magistrate. He nodded and I began a ballad of Alexander II fighting the orcs and driving them from Confernos. As I sang everyone enjoyed their wine and there was some quiet talk among the guests. Next I played a festival song with finger picking, something I expected to be familiar and popular in the area. At the conclusion of the second song, I bowed to the Magistrate and the other guests for their applause. I turned to the servant holding my hat and he brought it to me straight away. I took the hat from him and holding it in my right hand I turned to the Magistrate and bowed once more with a flourish, and said, “I beg my lord grant me leave so I may visit with the folk and establish my relations among the citizens of Stonebridge.” “I grant you leave.” He replied simply. And with that I turned to the door and walked out. The guards opened the door for me and I strode into the atrium and out into the street.
I could see it had been dark for about an hour so I went straight to the Green Hawk to play, only a short distance from the Mansion. Arriving at the Green Hawk I stepped inside and removed my hat. I strode over to the hearth and saw a small table set there for me. The table was near the hearth and too small to be used by anyone wanting to sit down. It was a customary table for a musician under these circumstances. I placed my hat on the table and a pouch trimmed in bright colors on the table next to it. This was to collect tips from the patrons of the tavern. I swung my lute around and checked the tuning. A serving maid came over with a tankard of ale for me and set it on the table. I reached down and took hold, raised it and took a good draw from the tankard. I raised it up to Tony and he nodded in my direction with a smile, and I took a second drink. I raised the tankard to the people and there was a cheer. And everyone quieted down. I strummed a chord and began a love song first without the lute and then later with the lute as the emotion of the lyrics rose and then quieter as the song ended and I could see that I was going to have a good night. I played on for two hours and Tony never sent a second tankard over to me. He was pleased to hear me as well seeing that his patrons were staying late into the night. When I was ready I took hold of my bag of tips and held it up high by way of thanks to the crowd. I tucked my hat under my arm and held my lute in my right hand and walked over to the bar. Tony met me there and handed me a second tankard of ale.
I spilled out my tips and began sorting them and counting out my success. Tony asked how my dinner went and I said it went exactly how I expected. “We had fine lamb and rice with green beans, bread and wine.” “Sounds tasty”, he replied. He went on, “There is a fellow that asked to meet you. He is over there in the corner at the end of the bar. I will introduce you.” I followed him to the table he indicated and there was one fellow seated at a table wearing the clothes of a woodsman.
“Bene-Timber, this fellow is Flint, a Ranger. He spends most of his time up in the village Pine Mill. Flint, this is Bene-Timber, messenger and musician for the Emperor.” Flint made a small smile and indicated he would like me to have a seat. I placed my tips purse on the table and set my hat over it. I placed my lute on the table and pulled my cloth bag (which holds my credentials) off my shoulder setting it on the table. I sat down and looked at Tony asking for one more tankard. He stepped away. Flint took a drink from his tankard and said, “So you are a new bard come to spy on us?” I was taken back that he would start with this, like this. It was very undiplomatic and imprudent if he were really seeking information. I responded, “Many people think we emissaries are just spies but they usually disagree on who we are spying for. I am a loyal servant of the Emperor and what I learn is for him and his officials. I would like to know we can be friends.” He fished in his pocket for something and produced a pipe. He grinned and fished in his pocket again and produced a supple leather bag of tocco. A serving maid delivered my tankard. He packed his pipe and lit it, and I smelled the sweet aroma of Colorovaian leaf. I took a sip from my tankard.
Flint said, “Well said my friend. We are both friends of the best man in this province, Andante.” And he puffed again. “He asked that I meet you today and you arrived on schedule. Illihambur says you were a pleasant traveling guest, and Ben says you’re a very likeable fellow.” “Illihambur and Ben said that, did they?” “Yes, they did. You understand what I am telling you, or need I go on?” “No, I understand. [Flint was telling me plainly that he had many friends, good sources and a good knowledge of MY affairs even though he had never met me before.] “So what would you like to talk about tonight? Or are you going to provide some more advice as one of Andante’s friends?” “I am not teaching you so much as taking your measure”, he replied. “You have a bright future if you remember all your lessons as well as you have learned from the College. Your playing was very beautiful. You carry yourself exactly as you were trained and you speak in the proper way for a diplomat and … messenger.” He took another pull on his pipe and I another draw on my tankard. He glanced around to make sure we were speaking privately. He asked if I could play a tune while we talked; something unusual, foreign perhaps. This was a code. He was asking me to use my bardic talents to disturb anyone who might be trying to listen. Against low level characters it would work perfectly. Against mid-level characters it would work but also be a dead giveaway we were trying to avoid being overheard. Against high level characters it wouldn’t do any good at all for I wasn’t so well rehearsed. But I lifted my lute and played something exotic as we chatted. Again Flint nodded with a small grin.
Tomorrow I need you to join the Cleric who will travel to Pine Mill. He will leave from the shrine early so you will need to bother Cottern again tonight before too long as you must tell him you are leaving Stonebridge. Tell him you want to visit Pine Mill and the other towns before Andante arrives. Cottern will have the scribe update your credentials as you were instructed earlier. When you get to Pine Mill, I will be there waiting for you, but there is no hurry. Just travel with the Cleric and have a chat with him on your journey. It is only a morning walk to Pine Mill.
I pretended to be paying more attention to my lute but I remembered every word. “So if I am to leave early I will need to see him tonight. And he will be annoyed with me.” Flint replied, “Yes, I’m afraid so. You could see he is not the adventuring type and appreciates the creature comforts of life in the mansion, so yes, he will be annoyed. For that reason, you best get up and take care of it straight away.” I glanced up and he took another pull on his pipe and I feigned interest in my lute some more. I glanced up again and Flint nodded his head ever so slightly and I knew he was finished and I need not play any longer. I finished my tune and relaxed a bit. I reached for my tankard and took another drink. “Flint, I will need to buy a trunk and some more clothes. Is there someone you would recommend in Stonebridge or elsewhere in this province?” He took a draw and replied, “There is a fine seamstress here in town named Isabell. See her about the clothes. You want to buy your goods from Moses. He has the best shop for many miles and carries quite a variety of goods. He has quite a network of suppliers and you will do well just to visit him to see what he can provide in the future. There is no need to carry a box of candles around with you when you may buy any number you need while you are here. His shop is only right next door.” I finished my ale and stood up. “Thank you for the advice. I shall see them soon, I hope.” And with that I picked up my cloth bag and slung it over my shoulder. I placed the lute over my back, picked up my hat and my bag of tips and walked over to the bar. I placed five coppers on the countertop and winked at the serving maid. I said “Tony, I’ll be back in a bit but I must run an errand.” He looked up from the tankard he was cleaning and said, “At this time of night?” And I replied, “I’ll be back shortly. Thank you.” And I walked to the door and stepped out into the street.
A short walk and I was back at the mansion. The guard challenged me and when he realized I was one of the dinner guests from earlier he asked for my pardon and let me inside. Once inside I asked another guard to send word that I must need see the Steward, immediately. The guard spoke to a servant who disappeared down the hallway. A short time later, the servant returned and said, “Follow me please, sir.” And he led me down the hallway to the Steward’s office. There was a faint glow of a single candle from the outer office. He offered me a seat and I declined saying I didn’t expect to be long. The servant stood a bit uneasy, trying not to stare at me, but there was nothing else to look at in the room. I lifted my tips and dumped them out on the scribe’s desk and began to count them again. Next I scooped them up and placed them in the purse I wore on my belt. I balled up the colorful cloth pouch and placed that in my pocket. And in stepped Cottern dressed as if he were coming to the office for the morning.
He greeted me formally, “Good evening Sir. What may this humble servant of the Magistrate do for you at this hour?” He was clearly annoyed that I had required him to come to the office after dinner. But he didn’t feel he could refuse so he dressed as the Magistrate expected of his servants and came to the office straight away. I smiled and tried to be understanding, “Good evening, Cottern. I apologize but I have business I must take care of immediately. The Magistrate said I must report to you when I leave the town and that I ask you to update my credentials folder in this office. I must need journey to Pine Mill in the morning and I hear that I have the opportunity to join a young Cleric that will be going that way. I understand he leaves early so that I must bother you tonight.” Cottern relaxed a bit, “Oh, I see.” He sat down at the scribe’s desk. He went into a drawer and got a quill and opened a bottle of ink. He reached for a second candle and lit it from the first then placing it a candle holder.
He looked up and I handed him my credentials folder. He turned to the next page and wrote at the top Stonebridge in a lovely script. Underneath he wrote By order of Lord Ballinor. And beneath that he wrote, The bearer is entitled to carry weapons in Stonebridge. Also the bearer need not report to the mansion immediately upon visiting the town, but shall attend the governor’s dinner on first night. The guards shall report to the mansion his arrival in his place. He signed the page at the bottom, wrote his title, Steward, and then made an odd symbol next to his title, leaving a bit of open space on the page above. He retrieved a small pottery bowl from the desk with a bit of dirty water inside. He dipped the pen in the water. He placed the pen back in the desk and the pottery bowl. He placed a cap on the inkwell. He pushed back from the desk and stood up. He said, “I need to get a seal from my office. I’ll be right back.” With that he reached in his pocket, retrieved a key, unlocked his door and went inside. He came back out after only a moment with two square stones, a piece of metal and a mallet. He placed one stone on the desk, set the piece of metal over that, which I could now see was engraved, and then placed the folder with this single page sticking out over the metal piece, and then capped it off with the other stone. He raised his hand holding the mallet and came down sharply with a bang, shaking the two candle stands and the inkwell. He placed the mallet on the table, lifted the stone and set it aside and then moved the booklet near the candle to examine the seal. Satisfied, he handed me the booklet and I held it closer to my face to see for myself. He picked up the things and said, “If that will be all sir, I will return these to my desk and make the appropriate entry in the morning.” “Thank you, yes, that is everything.”
Wishing to moderate the inconvenience I added, “Cottern, is there anything I may bring you back from Pine Mill?” He stopped half-way through the door to his office, turned and said, “Yes, if you could bring me a wooden bowl about this size”, and he made a bowl with his hands, “I would appreciate it. There are good carvers in Pine Mill.” And I responded, “Very well.” And Cottern stepped inside his office. He came out and acted surprised that I should still be standing there. He looked at the servant, who hadn’t moved or said a word, and Cottern said, “You fool.” And he made a dismissing motion with his hand at him. The servant said, “If you will come with me sir?” And I nodded to him, and then nodded to Cottern, who then had to stand up straight and nod back to me. I turned and followed the servant to the front door. Arriving in the atrium he asked, “Will there be anything else, sir?” And I replied, “No I’ll be headed back to the Hawk. Thank you.” And he smiled and opened the door for me and I stepped out into the night air.
The guards snapped to attention and then relaxed. I gaged the hour to be too late for entertaining so I did not pull my lute around. I stepped to the edge of the porch and looked up at the stars. There were many stars visible in the clear night sky and I thought it shall get cold come the morrow. I walked the short walk back to the Hawk and stepped inside. Things were wrapping up and maids and Tony were busy cleaning up. I had not noticed the strong odor of wood smoke, ale, perspiration and whatever they were serving from the kitchen when I came in earlier. I must have smelled quite gamey myself earlier, and the smell of smoke masked the other smells when I returned from the mansion earlier.
When Tony saw me, he stopped what he was doing and met me at the bottom of the stairs. He said, “We’ll go up and I’ll unlock your door for you, Bene-Timber. May I call you Bene?” I replied, “Of course, that would be fine, Tony.” And so I followed him up the stairs to my room. As we left the second floor I believe I noticed someone in the shadow looking our way but gave no indication I noticed. We arrived at my door and Tony unlocked it for me. He stepped in and lit a candle for me. I placed my hat on the coat rack and removed my lute, placing it on one of the chairs. I returned to the coat rack and placed my rapier and strap there. I removed my dagger and placed it on the table at the bed, reached for a second candle and lit it from the first. I placed this on the table with my dagger. I walked to the dresser and began unbuttoning my dress shirt. All the while Tony was waiting.
He cleared his throat and said, “Bene, could we discuss tomorrow night? I see you made quite a profit from playing tonight. I’m rather ashamed for implying you might not be a good musician.” He smiled at me and continued, “You are really quite good, although I didn’t recognize what you were playing when you were talking to Flint.” I replied, “It was something Flint asked me to play. I’m still working on it and polishing it up.” Tony went on, “Well, I would like to offer you a standard arrangement for folks, folks like yourself, and offer to let you stay free and provide three meals, water, tea and coffee, to you, provided you play for three hours in the evening. You need only split your tips with me.” I paused and thought about it. It sounded like a standard deal. If I played three hours in the evening, I need not take any risk that I wouldn’t have enough to pay for my lodging and meals. I would be assured half the profits from my playing. And it was clear that Tony would profit handsomely as well for his half should be more than the cost of putting me up and he would get much more sales elsewise for my entertaining. So after thinking about it I replied, “Let’s agree to this deal for this week, provided I am allowed to keep this room the whole week. I should not want to be shuttled around at your whim just because some other customer wished this room with the window.” Tony shifted his weight and then said, “Well, I, uh, OK. For just a week?” And I replied, “Yes, let me see how it goes and we may discuss it again later.” He turned to leave and I called after him, “I must be on the road early tomorrow. Please wake me. Do you know when the Cleric departs for Pine Mill?” He responded, “Oh, Joseph, he leaves pretty early.” “Well I need to join him in the morning. Please wake me so I may eat my breakfast in time to join him.” He responded, “Yes, sir.” And he stepped out the door pulling it closed behind him.
After the sound of his steps faded down the stairs, I went to the door and opened it slightly and peered down the hallway. I tried to see [perception] if I could get a glimpse of anyone spying on me or evidence of anything amiss, but there was nothing and no one. I closed the door, stepped across the room and retrieved the other chair. I set it against the door to block it closed. I returned to the dresser and finished undressing. I folded my good clothes and set them on the table. I retrieved a night shirt and pulled it over my head. I retrieved my folder and took another look at the new page and the raised seal of the Steward. I put that way. I retrieved my journal and my writing things and recorded the important events of the day. I made a few mental notes to acquire a map from someone in the court, to visit the seamstress, Isabel, and the merchant, Moses. I also wanted to see what sorts of things I might find in the town for future reference, their quality, and make note of what businesses I could find here. It was clear looking at the architecture that a group of capable stone masons and carpenters were to be found. I also wished to assess the size of the garrison here without the help of the townsfolk, as a means of practice for the future. But first I would travel to see Flint and see what that was all about. Most things he could have told me in the tavern so why did he need my whole day in Pine Mill?
My writing done, I blew out one candle and went to lay on the bed. Through the slightly open window I could hear the grasshoppers, crickets and other insects singing. There was an occasional “hoot” from an owl earning his keep for the night, or the cry of a wolf far off. I could hear the footfall of a few men in the street and I suspected they were part of the watch. I relaxed and thought how nice it was to sleep on sheets tonight, and I blew out the other candle.
A knock came at the door and I opened my eyes. Another soft knock from the door. I call out, “Good morning. Thank you for coming to wake me.” And as I twist around to put my feet on the floor I hear a soft, “Good morning. Breakfast is being made.” from a female voice. I stand up and look about. I reach down into the drawer and find a match to light the candle, which provides much more light into the dim grey room. I take the candle by the stand and light the candle on the table by the window. I place the candle on the dresser and pour water into the basin. I reach in and get a handful of water and rub it into my face. Then I grab my wash towel and I dip it in the water and wash off all my skin. I walk over to the window and I can feel the cool air from outside. I can see the sun is lighting the sky but not yet on the horizon. I remove my nightshirt and I place it on the chair moving my lute slightly out of the way. I bend down and take the washed clothes from the basket delivered to my room yesterday and I dress. I place an inner shirt over my chest and then the padded shirt that goes with my armor. I sit down and pull my socks on and then pull my trousers up my legs. I sit back down and pull my boots on and then I stand up and walk over to the door. I grab the chair leaning against the door and I place it back by the table. Returning to the door I grab my belt and wrap it around my waist. I step over to the night stand I pick up my dagger and place it in the scabbard hanging from my belt. I pull a piece of string from the blanket on the bed and I reach up and place it on the moulding over the door and stick it there so it hangs down over the top edge of the door. Satisfied, I turn back to the window and close it and secure it. I blow out the two candles. I return and open the door stepping through. I pull the door almost closed and I turn and look down the hallway [perception]. I take a few steps to the stairs and I look down the stairs and then back up the hallway [perception]. I don’t see anything out of place. I walk back to my room door but as I close the door I reach up and set the string so it is hanging cleanly inside the door as I close it. If anyone enters the room while I am out, I will see the string hanging out of place over the door. I turn and head downstairs.
As I descend to the ground floor, I see a table has been set for one where I sat with Flint the night before. From this table I can see every entrance into the room. A maid is fritting about cleaning things and she turns when she hears me coming down the stairs. She turns to face me and she flattens her skirts. Next she pulls her hands behind her back and a smile comes across her face. She curtsies and says “Good morning, my lord.” “Good morning”, I reply, “Uh, I don’t believe I caught your name?” She blushes a little, apparently flattered that I should want to know her name, and replies, “Priscilla, my lord.” She continues, “I can bring you coffee, my lord. The breakfast will be along any moment.” I respond, “Thank you. Coffee would be quite welcome, Priscilla.” She smiled and turned to fetch the coffee.
There was a little talking as she rounded the door and she followed an older woman back into the seating area. The older woman was carrying a plate with my breakfast and she was carrying a mug of steaming coffee. The older woman placed the plate before me and stepped back a half-pace. This stopped the maid, who stepped around the other side of the table and placed the mug down on the table on the wrong side of me. The flat wear and a napkin were already there. The older lady just looked at me. The young maid asked if there was anything else I should require. I asked for something to sweeten my coffee. And she stepped back a half-pace saying quietly, “Of course, my lord.” Turned and went around the corner. I noticed the older woman shot a glance over her way as she said that. Next she said, “May I bring you anything else, my lord?” “Spices”, I replied. “I may enjoy some spices on my breakfast.” She said, “Of course, that will be only a moment, sir.” The breakfast was scrambled eggs and some sort of porridge in a bowl with a hunk of bread. Apparently there was a local custom where this bread was dipped into the porridge because it was already deliberately dipped in the stuff. The younger girl returned with a small bowl of honey and a straight wooden stick dipped in the honey. I raised it out and stuck it in my coffee and stirred. The honey quickly dissolved into the hot liquid and I raised it up and let it drip before returning it to the bowl. I raised it up and took a drink. I was good coffee, maybe a little strong, but very helpful in raising my senses and my mood. She flattened her skirts again and said, “Is there anything else, my lord.” And the older woman returned with a small tray of spices. Now she was forced to go around to the other side of the table. She set the tray down and said, “We didn’t know what you fancy, so we brought you a collection of jars.” I looked over her way and I said, “Thank you. Uh?” She stopped and sputtered, “I am, my name is Christina, my lord.” “Thank you, Christina.” She stepped back a half-pace. I glanced at both women and said, “Do you think there is a chill in here?” They both spoke at once. Priscilla said, “There is usually a chill …” and Christina said, “Oh, sorry sir. Uh, my lord. We don’t usually make a fire in the morning, but I can … Priscilla, go fetch an armful of firewood.” And with that Christina stepped over to the fireplace to set a fire.
Without either of them looking at me, I reached down and took hold of my spoon and tasted the porridge. It was fairly flat in taste and so I placed my spoon down and examined the spices. I picked up each jar and smelled each one. Favoring one, I touched it and brought my finger to my tongue. Thinking it would do, I took a pinch and sprinkled it into the porridge. Next I sampled the eggs, which tasted like eggs. No surprise, thank the Fates. I smelled the spices again and took a pinch of pepper and a pinch of salt. I took another drink from my coffee. Priscilla entered the room from an exterior door with an armload of firewood. She brought it to the fire place where Christina was kneeling. They had a fire going in only a moment which brightened up the room for its light and warmth. They stood and looked over my way but I wanted to busy myself with eating because I needed to keep my schedule. They both came to stand on the other side of the table and looked at me. Priscilla spoke first, “Is there anything else, my lord?” and Christina shot a glance her way. “Uh, I’m sorry but I am in a hurry this morning. I’ll be only a moment more, if you please.” And Christina understood, turned and nudged Priscilla to the kitchen. They walked off.
I finished my breakfast thinking surely these folks know better how to cook. I wiped my mouth with the napkin pushed back and stood. Priscilla immediately poked her head around the corner and Christina stepped around behind her both looking my way. I stood up and placed the napkin over my left arm, grabbed the mug of coffee in my right hand and the honey in my left, and stepped to the bar. I placed them all at the end of the bar and I called out, “Ladies, thank you for the breakfast. I shall want another mug of coffee when I come back down the stairs so I thought I would leave these things right here. Is there a lad about that could help me in my room?” Priscilla started to speak but the older woman, who I came to suspect was her mother, placed her arm on Priscilla’s forearm and replied, “We'll have someone come up presently, my lord.” Priscilla snapped her head around to look at her and then bowed her head. She turned and went back to the kitchen. Christina called for Tony, and stepped toward the table to clear it. I finished the last swallow of coffee. Replaced the mug and headed back up the stairs.
Reaching the top, I again looked carefully at the hallway [perception] and didn’t see anything out of place. I walked to my room door and opened it very slowly. I saw the string didn’t show anyone had entered my room. I pushed the door open and walked in. I grabbed the things I needed and placed them on the bed. I then grabbed the things I didn’t need and folded them and placed them in a neat stack on the seat of the chair. I reached down and lifted my armor. I left the faulds and only placed the cuirass over my torso. I had to leave it hang loose until I could get some help. I picked up my saddle bags and checked their contents, packing a few things I wished to have with me today. I heard steps approaching and turned to the open door to see Tony come around the corner.
“Good morning, sir,” he said, “I understand you asked to see me?” “Yes, I need a hand securing my armor. If you could please”, and I turned to expose the buckles and hooks. Tony stepped over and began fastening the hooks as I held my arm up. He asked, “Did you like your room, sir?” I replied, “Yes, the room is fine. I would like to have a bench or something set against that wall there, if you have one.” And he said, “Yes sir, I will have one brought up here presently.” And I said, “Oh, there is no real hurry. I expect to be gone most of the day, but I do expect to return this evening. And I will be ready to play.” I smiled at him. He fastened the buckles. I continued, “I would like this bit of laundry done today. Please thank the woman that prepared my laundry last evening. Since I will be gone, I ask that you will secure my room again while I am gone.” He responded, “Yes sir. I will have my wife attend to your laundry. It will be here when you return, and the bench will be brought up, sir.”
“Yes, thank you.” I said. “I need to ask you, the maid that has been helping, she collected my laundry last evening and delivered my coffee this morning and fetched the firewood.” Tony responded with a little edge in his voice, “Yes sir.” “Is she you daughter?” I asked. “Yes she is.” He replied. And I continued, “And the older woman, Christina, she is your wife?” He answered, “Yes sir.” I paused, “I thought so. I believe your daughter is quite taken with me. I guess my novelty as a visitor is interesting to her. You know as a half-elf I usually get a reaction of unusual friendship or unusual resentment whenever I have been away from my home in Tahgrum.” He had finished with the buckles and I turned to face him and continued, “I expect you will be relieved to hear I am strictly forbidden to indulge in casual relationships. This is a strict duty for my station as a representative of the Emperor. The service can not abide personal entanglements compromising my duties as I travel. I am at liberty to pursue a real courtship but there are factors to be considered there also. I tell you this for two reasons. First, I suspect your wife, at least, is worried for your daughter and me, and I want you to know I will not compromise your daughter’s dignity. Second, I hope you are able to convey this gently to your daughter so she is able to pursue the, uh, other interests she has. OK.” And Tony let out a breath of air. “I am very glad to hear this because my wife told me she was very worried. Now that I know the situation I will speak to my daughter. Why even my wife said she felt like she was under a spell talking to you. You bards are all like that you know. I wonder if it is just natural or if you are trained to play your magic over the women.” I snorted a small laugh and I said, “They did teach us a few things but I have always had a special power with women. I was surprised to see it worked outside my home in Tahgrum. But I will tell you one thing, if you can keep it a secret. You automatically jump up one notch of interest if you learn a woman’s name and use it. Don’t make a big production of it, but try speaking to women in this town and remember to call them by their name and see if they don’t seem to brighten up just a bit when they see you. And please don’t tell everyone you know about this. Try it when talking to your wife and even she will brighten up a little.” I concluded, “I need to get downstairs. If you would please excuse me.” And he said, “Yes, sir.” And he stepped out the door and down the hall.
I turned back to the mirror and checked myself over once more. I grabbed my rapier and slung it over my shoulder. I grabbed my saddlebags and my lute and walked out into the hall. I walked out the door and to the head of the stair. I placed my lute and saddle bags against the wall. I looked down the hallway [perception] and walked back to my room. I reached in and pulled the door closed setting the string because of my habit, and looked down the hall from this end [perception] and noted nothing out of the ordinary. I walked back and picked up the saddle bags and lute, and then descended the stairs. As I came down I saw Christina standing near my coffee mug at the end of the bar. She smiled at me and I smiled back. I thanked her for having my coffee ready and took a small sip. After confirming it had not been sweetened for me, I lifted the stick from the pot of honey and swirled it in my coffee. I finished my coffee looking around the room and was a little uneasy that Christina never stopped staring at me. I finished my mug, placed it on the counter, picked up the napkin and wiped my mouth, replaced it and nodded to her before turning to leave. I picked up my lute and put my hat on my head and strode through the door.
Outside, the light was bright but the air was still cool. I walked down the street and crossed to pass nearer the mansion. I stepped up on the porch and said “Hello” to the guards. I stepped down and over to the stable to greet Ben. He was busy inside raking a stall and said “Hello”, as I came into view. I told him I might be back for my horse in a moment, but if not I asked him to make sure he got a walk today and fed. Ben said, “Absolutely, sir, you can count on it.” And I stepped out into the street and looked toward the shrine. There were two clerics standing there talking with one another by two carts. I walked up with a smile and greeted them, “Hello friends. You were there at dinner last night, were you not?”
They turned their attention to me, and the one on my right spoke first, “Good day, Bene-Timber, is it?” I nodded and extended my hand to him, “Yes sir. But you have me at a disadvantage. You are?” He took hold of my hand and said, “Of course, I am Jacob and this is Joseph.” And Joseph extended his hand and we clasped firmly. I said, “Glad to make your acquaintance.” He replied, “And I yours, sir.” I asked, “Will we be headed to Pine Mill presently?” Jacob said, “Well I am headed the other way. We have a habit of visiting the hamlets around Stonebridge and the other two clerics have departed.” I turned back to Joseph, “So when will we be leaving?” He replied, “As soon as you’re ready. It not very far, just a few hours walk.” I looked at the carts. They were two wheeled with space for two men to sit up front. They had solid wheels, no spokes, and tall sides. “Which is ours?” I asked. “This one here. And Ham is our friend today doing all the work.” I grinned and stepped to the back of the cart. I looked inside and there was quite a bit of cargo there and a mace. I asked, “There is a mace back here, for who?” “Oh, it’s mine”, said Joseph. “We sometimes get a visit from bandits so we must be ready in that event. They would steal from their mothers if they even knew who they were.” “Well how about I just set my saddle bags right here.” And I threw them up over the side of the cart so one hung over each side.
Jacob said, “I know you may think this odd, but I would like to see your credentials folder if I may?” I looked over at him because I did think it was odd after the dinner last night, but out of congeniality I reached into one of the bags and produced my folder and handed it to him. I watched and they opened it and turned the page and seeing nothing else they returned the folder to me. I thanked them for the folder and turned to replace it in my bag. As I reached up I said, “Could I see your folders, please?” They turned to each other and shrugged. Jacob turned and said, “My folder and I believe Joseph’s also is inside in our cells. If you would care to wait?” I replied, “No, that’s not necessary. I may wish to see them some other time, though. So why did you want to see my folder then? You know very well after dinner that I am certified.” “Well we wanted to see how far you had travelled in the service before coming to visit us. You see, most new messengers, ah emissaries, are younger bards. They display an awkwardness due to their youth. They are not so mindful of their duties and lessons as you seem to be, but we heard the messenger coming was new. You are much older than we expected. We wanted to see if the rumors were true.” “Oh, well I should take that as some measure of a compliment then I suppose. Well, maybe they didn’t tell you I am a half-elf, which you can easily see for yourselves. Since I will live many more years, we tend to stay at home longer even when we decide to strike out as adventurers in the world. Yes, I am as new as you have been told. I have been in the service a whole week. But I take my lessons and my profession very seriously so I hope to make a good impression and serve the Emperor well.”
Joseph said, “Well, let’s get started.” And I shook Jacob’s hand and waved as he turned his cart toward the road that led east. We turned the opposite way that would take us by the barracks. We began walking and Ham followed us. I asked if Joseph would be bothered if I played while we walked and he said, “No, not at all, I believe I would be enriched to hear you play.” I pulled my lute around and played some upbeat festival songs. We walked out of town passing a small gatehouse under construction. There were four guards on duty and Joseph waved to them and I nodded as I played.
After we were beyond their hearing I stopped playing and asked Joseph, “The fellow who was in charge at the bridge when I entered town yesterday, who is he?” Joseph replied, “Oh Trent, a sergeant, he’s not a bad fellow but he is a nervous one by nature. Why do you ask?” I replied, “Yes, he was a very nervous fellow. I did my dead level best to set his mind at ease, short of casting a spell over him, and then he would have possibly have become belligerent if it didn’t work and resentful later if it did, so there was no need in taking that route. Has he lived here long?” “Oh, yes, he’s lived here his whole life. His family runs a farm over to the east a bit. Why?” I responded, “I don’t know. I thought maybe this was the first time he had been separated from his family and posted to another province or something. You know that is a common practice in the ranks.” Joseph said, “Yes, I have heard that, but not so common around here. In these remote areas they often promote fellows to keep locals in the ranks because they are familiar with the dangers we face. These fellows are much more like a militia than an army even though there is no real distinction officially.” And I replied, “I see.” And with that I played some more.
After a spell I stopped again and said, “Something isn’t right. Do you sense anything different?” [perception] Joseph stopped and so did Ham, “No I don’t see anything.” I said, “Better fish out your mace, something is going to happen.” And with that, I removed my lute, pulled my gloves from my belt and pulled them on, and drew my rapier. I was scanning the wood line off to our right and detected some movement. Joseph came around with his mace in hand and looked off in the direction I was looking. “Are you ready?” I asked. “Yes, but I don’t see anything.” He replied. And I said, “Well they are coming and I figure there are eight of them. Can we handle eight?” He responded, “If they don’t have archers we should. I might take five or six with a spell if they get close enough.” And from the wood line they came suddenly spread out in a line from our left to our right. They were an almost comical bunch of mismatched misfits. They were carrying any sort of weapon they could find, two of them were bringing heavy branches they were going to use as clubs. One fellow had leather armor that didn’t fit him well and another had padded armor, awfully stained as if he never thought to wash it. The others were mostly unarmored, although some had bracers. I couldn’t see any archers so that made me feel better. I asked Joseph in a whisper, “How far away can you use your spell?” He said “About fifty feet or so.” And I called out to them, “Well that’s far enough men. What’s your business?”
The leader in leather armor stopped and the others stopped with him. “My business? Haw, haw, What’s my business. Why we’re teamsters, can’t you see? We’re here to help carry your cargo for you, Poff!” I cast Vicious Mockery and replied, “Carry our cargo you say? I hope better than you carry your liquor judging by the stains on your armor.” And I drew my dagger in my off hand. “You had best be off before you get hurt. Go play with yourselves somewhere else. We have no time for the likes of you.” And the leader was enraged and said, “Just take them, boys.” And this is what I wanted, a direct assault with all of them coming from one side. Joseph was on the ball and he cast Burning Hands taking all the middle six of them full and they recoiled, some falling on the ground as they should and others just running in some random direction. I raised my rapier and met the fellow on our left and Joseph met the fellow on our extreme right with his mace. Against unarmored foes we both drove our first attack home and they were mortally wounded kneeling or laying on the ground. I took a second strike on my opponent with my dagger and opened his neck for the buzzards. I turned and faced the next nearest bandit and took a stance ready for his advance. Joseph knelt by his victim and checked and found him already dead and stood up taking a step to his left to bring him closer to me.
The bandits had recovered, well the four not already dead, for the fire had taken two others. I figured they were about done but with desperate men you always have to wonder. The leader seemed to have the most fight left in him. I figured if he were taken out then we’d be done with this lot so I attempted to intimidate the others. I ordered Joseph to cover my left and I stepped forward at them and Joseph passed behind me and came up on my left. I was coming steadily at the leader and he could see it clearly. I cast Vicious Mockery again and said, “A Poff, remember, you better finish it hear or you’ll always be the fearsome bandit leader remembered only for losing his band of eight to a Poff!” And his face was a mixture of fear and rage. His men were moving back away allowing him to contend with me himself. He glanced to his right and to his left and called out, “What are you men doing? We have them outnumbered! C’mon!” And with that I lunged and caught him deep in his left arm. As he swung his right hand holding his sword over to the wound, I lunged with the dagger in my left hand burying it to the cross piece just under his ribs in his right side. He immediately collapsed and I pulled my dagger from him quickly resuming my ready stance and faced the next closest man.
They started backing away. Joseph called out, “Wait men, you may die of your wounds. If you throw down your weapons and surrender, I can heal your wounds.” They only continued to step away. One answered, “And we’ll be tried and hung on the morrow. We’ll take our chances and we’ll meet you again someday.” And they moved more quickly back to the wood and disappeared.
I turned and looked at Joseph. “Lizards Teeth!” I exclaimed. “Look at me! My shirt! My Armor! My pants! Even my boots! All ruined!” Joseph looked at me and held up one hand, “Not to worry my friend. We are alive, unhurt. These poor beggars burned and stabbed to death. Those fellows running off into the wood will likely be dead of their wounds in a week or infection in a month. Here, come over here to the cart. Let me clean you up.” I threw my rapier and dagger into the dirt point first and followed him to the back of the cart.
He fished out a waterskin and some cloth he would use for rags. He said, let me help you with your armor. We removed my leather armor, which except for the blood was otherwise in prefect shape. I pulled my bloody shirt off and he tore the arms off and threw them in the cart. He looked me in the eye. “There are families in the province that would gladly accept that fabric even if it had some permanent blood stains so please keep your perspective.” I collected myself and said, “I’m sorry. I should know better. I am not to let my raw feelings come to the surface like that. It was an important lesson. I hope Andante doesn’t hear …” He cut me off there, “Oh, trust me, Andante will not have the least ill feelings toward you over that. I hope you speak to him about this and remember to share every detail. He is a great man that will play an important role in the Empire someday if he doesn’t get himself killed. He will teach you what you should learn from it.”
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42 nd Planting, 221 – from the Journal of Bene-Timber, Level 1 Bard
I received my commission into the Emperor’s diplomatic corps today. The sergeant I had to deal with to acquire my service gear was a most disagreeable fellow named Simon, but at least I received my gear from a stock of new equipment and not an old stained remnant from some poor fellow that had been accosted by bandits. The stories I have heard are quite astonishing.
I’m working for a nice fellow named Andante. He is quite a lute player and says he will be pleased to help me learn the lute and new ballads he comes across if I were to share the same with him. Knowing from the college this was absolutely expected I heartily agreed to share. He says I’ll be able to earn some extra money for myself just playing in taverns on my usual rounds and I am able to keep the proceeds to use to complete outfitting myself with gear and later to improve my lifestyle. I must have appeared contrarian for after seeing my face he said to me, “You will find it important to have folks see that you fare well in the service of the Emperor. They will believe you are well connected, which is an illusion we all find favorable in the service.”
He took me over to pick out a riding horse from the stables and made sure I knew how to care for the beast. He has an eye for horses for he found a wonderful cream-colored animal with a good look about him. We obtained the tack and harness and saddled him. Two regular saddle bags were located that will have to do for now but they have seen much use. They bore the symbol of the diplomatic corps and I wondered what fate came to the previous owner. Andante said not to worry, he probably had earned enough to buy new saddlebags that suited him better. Andante is such a likeable fellow I find it hard not to believe everything he says, but I remember hearing stories of other young bards in the service.
With all that done, we went to draw some rations because he didn’t know when I would have to fare for myself, although we were instructed to travel with merchant caravans and the like when we could. Caravans would feed you for a modest price and it was much better for us to use our time gathering information, writing notes and working on our craft. We also drew a large sack of oats for the horse although the horse would usually graze as we traveled.
We took one more stop that morning over to an out of the way shop. The shop keeper was a dwarf with a great bushy red beard and bushy red hair. A plump fellow like most dwarves I was acquainted with in the city. This fellow, Aaron Dunbar or some such name, was a bit hard of hearing. Andante told me he had spent time in his youth adventuring so he was a good fellow to deal with. He would understand the importance of having reliable equipment and didn’t sell any trash to folks. From Aaron we purchased two small crude flutes. They were overly bulky instruments and not sanded, polished or stained, and made for small hands, but they played beautifully. Andante explained that I should use these to teach music to children as I journeyed. In so doing I would develop important friends in the communities I would visit. Aaron didn’t make the flutes but had an acquaintance that supplied him with many small devices. I was deeply moved by this help from Andante for this was not the sort of thing I learned as a bard or in my brief training for the service. The wisdom of it was immediately evident and I thanked him to the point I think he was a little embarrassed over it.
The last thing we spoke about was my route and territory. He gave me a map he copied, probably from his own notes and memory, which showed the countryside in many details. But after showing me the map, in a tavern, during lunch, and a tankard of ale which I paid for gladly, he talked about every place on the map and some places that were not “marked.” For example, he told me about a ranger contact of his that lived in this place here (which was at the last letter in a name of a town shown on the map). His name was Flint and the last letter in the town name was strangely positioned so the “F” appeared in that spot on his map, and the “F” was noted in a different style lettering that other “f”s on the map. This was a technique they told us about in our training, but seeing how Andante used this technique was impressive.
So Andante gave me all manner of information I wouldn’t have any other way to help me before I left on my first journey around the “circuit”, as it was called. I would share the same circuit Andante was on until he believed he could trust me to take a portion of his circuit for myself. And he impressed upon me all these things I received by word of mouth were not to be divulged to anyone not in the service. If I were robbed by bandits or pressed by high government officials, I could surrender my map to save my life, but I couldn’t tell anyone something Andante shared with me about this map and the special information he gave me.
With all that business done I ordered another tankard and watched Andante perform for the patrons of the tavern. He was quite a lute player and sang very well. He had learned to incorporate many movements into his playing to add to the emotion of the music. I never saw anyone enjoy themselves like Andante when playing before an enthusiastic crowd. At the bard college we played for our teachers, who all too often were critical and seldom showed appreciation for our skill. When we played for each other it was clear some students stood out on one instrument or another, and some excelled in singing better than the others. I hoped to become the orator of epic poems and wonderful ballads, but I was not seen as one of the best at any of these things, yet. Andante said it would all come with time. At the end of my tankard I stood up and raised it to my new friend and drained it. He bowed his head with a little flair toward me, and I bowed in return. I placed the tankard on the table upside down, signaling the maid that I was leaving, and I placed a silver piece on the tankard for her, a generous tip. I picked up a pack of items I brought in with me, and headed for the door.
42nd Planting, 221 (evening)
I joined a caravan moving to Colorova, the same direction I was headed. We spent the day moving along a dry road in the sun past many farmer’s fields. Occasionally we passed a farmer or his wife who would typically stop what they were doing to observe us as we passed by. I spent my time either talking with one of my hosts or playing my lute and singing softly to pass the time. I quickly realized playing from horseback was not the same as playing at the college. I decided it would be better for me to strum and sing rather than work on my finger-picking technique. But riding through the countryside and singing made me quite thirsty so I drank most of my water during the half-day journey.
The caravanners were well acquainted with this route. They knew exactly where we would stop for the night, which was a pleasant meadow next to a creek where the animals could enjoy the rest of the daylight and we could draw water for ourselves. I noted that the caravanners were not overly fond of bathing but I tried not to let them know how I felt about that, being that in the diplomatic service I was expected to make friends of everyone. But I had experienced a long day in the sun and needed to wash the road off so I walked a short way upstream, for no sensible man bathes downstream of animals, and removed all the clothing I dared, before I rinsed myself off in the cool water.
Returning to the caravan, I unloaded my overnight gear and picked out a spot to set up a tarp. As I started laying my gear down my host approached and said I would have to set up ‘over there’ as he pointed to a place on the other side of the camping area. I must have given him a quizzical look and he said simply, “The unmarried men will be camping over there.” I said “OK”, and moved my gear. On the other side of the camp the best places had already been found and I was faced with either placing my spot beyond the others or in a less favorable spot closer in, which I decided I would do tonight.
Once set up I found a bit of log I could sit on and began to prepare to make a fire. One of the other young men came over and asked me in his thick accent if I would rather care to join them at their fire tonight. I didn’t know it, but they were very fond of Bards and were happy to have me share their fire for the song and music. A heavy-set woman brought us a large piece of meat, a bag of grain and another bag of vegetables, and one fellow produced his cooking kit and began to make something of it all. Another fellow had made the fire and was tending to it while some other were busy with this and that. One fellow produced a block of wood he had been carving and his carving knife as he set to work. Two fellows had disappeared in the woods a short distance away and returned with much happiness in their expressions for they had found something they were looking for. The other fellows produced small smoking pipes and a pouch of herbs. They filled their bowls and began to smoke and tell tales and jokes to one another. The fellow that had invited me gestured to me and said in his thick accent, “C’mon bard, play for us. We enjoy your music.”
I gladly pulled around my lute from my back and started to check the tuning. This amused them for it appeared they shared some bard joke among themselves, and joked while singing “boing, boing boing.” in their thick accent as I tuned up. But having tuned up the lute I searched my memory for what sort of music they would be familiar with and I played a song about the west where they were from, which they all recognized and joined in the singing as they were able. I was inwardly pleased with myself as I was succeeding in establishing a bond with these fellows. I played on favoring tunes from that region until the cooking fellow was ready with some dinner.
I had brought my plate and flatware, small water skin and mug with me to the campfire. They filled my plate with a stew which smelled wonderful, but as I went to pour water into my mug they said, “No, no, no. We have for you the drink.” They poured a mug of tea for me which smelled unlike any tea I had tasted before. They all stood up and the fellow with my mug stood up holding my mug so that I had to stand too. He handed me my mug and they removed their hats before one fellow said a short prayer quietly. Another fellow raised his mug and said “To the company of angels” and the other fellows raised their mugs also. They all replied “The angels.” And everyone took a drink from their mugs and I did as they did. I coughed a sputtered a bit and they all laughed a bit for I was not expecting the flavor of the tea. It wasn’t disagreeable but just unfamiliar, and it seemed they had experienced this before with other foreigners traveling with them.
We all sat down and they talked some more. They asked me questions about my home and experience. I answered them honestly about where I grew up and how I came to attend the bard college. I told them why I joined the service rather than avoid pledging myself to another man, for they placed great importance that they were each free men. I explained to them I didn’t see service to the emperor as a kind of slavery or bondage and it appeared they chose to be polite and say, “well maybe so”, when their faces showed something else.
Finishing my plate, I washed and played my lute some more before making my excuses and writing about this in my journal. The young men talked and joked a bit more and two of them practiced with their rapiers in the firelight. They were quite good and I was reminded that should we be ambushed by bandits I would be expected to fight along side these fellows. After writing in my journal I went off to bed. I picked out my map and went over every detail trying to pinpoint where I believed we were that night. I thought about all the word-of-mouth information I had received from Andante and reviewed it before putting the map away and going to sleep.
43rd Planting, 221
We rose just before the sun this morning and enjoyed a quick breakfast of eggs, ham and potatoes. My mates shared some more of their tea with me, which was a most welcome warm drink on this cool morning. After breakfast I packed my things up and went to bathe again before saddling my horse. Things seemed to be coming together well so I pulled out my flute and played a little tune, which caught the attention of all the children travelling with us. They came over and made a ring around me and my horse, joined hands and circled around as I played. They were all so happy. A couple women came over and shewed the children off back to their wagons but they were not unhappy with me. We saddled up and rode off shortly after.
The morning passed much as the previous day as we passed by a few farms seeing few people, but now the people were halflings. Being the time of year for planting the farms were little more than tilled earth. My music I shared was well received and I stopped to play for the farmer’s families and then caught up with the caravan.
At lunch I sat with the young men but the children wanted to come hear me play again. I found I had to get up and visit with the families to avoid the children hearing talk unsuited to their age. I caught the attention of the mothers who liked the opportunity for the children to play so gayly around the camp. A few of the young ladies also caught my eye, and I theirs, which also meant the older men were keeping their eye on me too having heard much about the devilish wiles of the bards.
The afternoon was also much like the morning except we began to move through some hills. We saw more sheep and less farming in these areas. I spent time riding with the leader of the caravan, Illihambur, and talking to him. I tried to let him speak but this was a real duel for he wanted to know more about me and I him. He wanted to know that I understood my responsibilities; as a diplomat required that I not seduce the young women of the caravan, and he questioned me directly and indirectly about this point. I was not unhappy to assure him of my devotion to duty and that I was well counseled not to entangle myself in this way. But I was very eager to hear his views on the country through which we were passing, where we were going and where he was going beyond that. After a long afternoon ride, he invited me to dine with him so that he could tell me the things I wanted to know.
We made camp once again near a brook that emptied into a lake. The terrain was a bit hillier and we camped in the edge of the wood. Again this was a spot well known to his company and everyone seemed to know what they needed to do as we stopped. The men cared for the animals and the women began to prepare for a meal. The young women looked after the children and the children were everywhere running about having been released from a day of either riding in a cramped wagon or walking along.
I sat with Illihambur and talked about the communities we passed through. I asked if he had a map I could see and he produced his map. I pulled out my map and we compared the maps together. He looked at my map and said, “I see you have a bard’s diplomatic map.” I was surprised he would think my map was special but I didn’t share any of the verbal knowledge I received from Andante. I did tell him I received this map from Andante who I had learned Illihambur was acquainted with. He pointed out some of the special tell-tale points of a bard’s diplomatic map including the fine script used, the very even line quality of a practiced writing hand and the attractiveness of the symbols for the woods, and the towns and other features.
His map did have features not shown on my map and I asked him about these places. He explained why these places were marked on his map and he often added, “I’m not surprised that isn’t interesting to a diplomat.” Implying Andante didn’t write them on my map for that reason, but I suspected he knew better why some of these places were not on my map. I asked him where he got his map and he replied striking his fist on his chest, “I made this map, Illihambur.” I then asked if I could make a copy and he agreed, so long as I didn’t give the information to anyone else. He didn’t want any of his secrets getting into the hands of other traders or bandits, but he was fine with sharing them with me so long as I kept my pledge. And with that, I produced my pen and ink and copied his map as well as I could. He was right that my copy looked distinctly like something made by a practiced scribe and not just a working man or uneducated oaf. I filed this lesson away for the future.
After a good dinner and some more music for the families this night, I went to sleep over by the young men under my tarp in my good blankets.
44th Planting, 221
We woke before the dawn again and made ready to continue moving. This morning was a copy of the previous morning except we were packing up in the edge of the woods. Being in the woods made me more comfortable but it clearly had the opposite effect on my hosts. I guess being in the wood makes it easier for bandits to approach before they are near enough to set upon the company.
Our path kept us running along this brook for the whole morning although we crossed it a few times this way and that. The path was narrow in the sloped ground so that the horses moved single file. The wagons had great difficulty moving in this terrain, which caused me to question why we were moving along this path? Was there a specific place we were going that justified this route over another or was there something we were avoiding by coming this way? Being close to the water we did enjoy the shade of the trees.
I played my lute now and then, but for no reason I could identify I was trying to stay alert to any threats that might befall the caravan. It had not occurred to me before that caravanners were especially exposed to bandits with their whole families traveling with them. It seemed we should have guards traveling with us. But since this was not just a family or two, but an entire community, there were many men travelling in the company. I noticed except for the young unmarried men, men of that age were not traveling with us. It seemed once a young man married he often decided to leave the caravan. I wondered if this was by choice or if the older men didn’t want the new couple traveling with them. Then I noticed there were no infants or toddlers in the company and the youngest children were five or six years.
There was a commotion late in the morning when the caravan met travelers coming the other way on the narrow path. Illihambur and a couple of the old men rode to the front and I followed them. Ahead of us on the path was a group of Dwarves leading their own caravan except this was not a family affair for them. They had ponies and two wheeled carts and they openly carried weapons. A half-dozen of our young men were fanned out in front of our party across the path, and four armed and armored dwarves were fanned out across the path facing them.
Illihambur arrived and dismounted, walked to the front of the column and introduced himself. A dwarf among them introduced himself, Dravok. Illihambur said he was the master of this caravan and asked what trade Dravok practiced. Dravok replied that he was also a merchant, adding that he was traveling to Rangoon, the county seat, to see the governor on business. Illihambur replied, “To see the governor? We have an emissary, Bene-Timber, traveling with us, and since you are traveling on official business he will wish to speak with you.” And hearing my name, I dismounted and walked to Illihambur.
The protocol for this meeting was well known to folks that traveled in this empire. I was a government official and Dravok did not appear to be an official. Since he was claiming to be traveling on official business he would have the right to pass first if there were no governmental official present to adjudicate the matter. But because I was an official of the government, albeit one of the lowest officials of any authority, I had the responsibility to decide who should pass and who should wait.
I introduced myself to Dravok and Illihambur each as the situation demanded. “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” With that I made my practiced bow as instructed and produced my credentials, bound in a leather case bearing the seal of the Emperor’s Chamberlain.
With that Dravok introduced himself, although it was clear he had no desire to participate in any ceremonies and was irritated by the whole thing. The young men of our party were amused by the whole thing, and started singing softly to themselves the comical “Boing, boing, boing”, song, which mocked my tuning of the lute. “I am Dravok, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre.” And without any bow or flourish he waved his hand conveying that he had no need of seeing my credentials, accepting my claim to be an official.
Illihambur then introduced himself. “I am Illihambur, master of this caravan and merchant from Cataran.” He took my credentials and gave a quick look before returning them to me. He grinned a little and I wondered what he was thinking about. He then looked up and said, “Our caravan of eleven wagons wish to pass unopposed on this narrow path as far as the next bridge over the Verde Brook.” And with this, Dravok cast his eyes down and replied, “Aye, and my company wishes to pass unopposed as far as the Penne Lake on this narrow path. However, being as our company consists of five carts and no women and children, we agree to yield to the Bridge.” And with that he looked up and to his fellows waving that they should move off the path. Illihambur interjected, “Wait! For I desire that since the Bridge is not a long way off, we wish to extend an invitation to your company to dine with us for the midday meal by the cool waters of the brook.” “We have provisions for all and have enjoyed the hospitality of our friends in Confernos as you will too.” Dravok turned back and looked up saying in a normal tone, “Aye, we will dine together then.” And with this he turned and pointed behind his caravan indicating they would turn back for the bridge.
44th Planting, 221 (evening)
We arrived at the bridge as Illihambur said we would following Dravok’s company. There the ladies prepared a usual midday meal and the young men attended to the animals. I was likewise attending to my own when one of the old men came to me and said “You must come”, and pointed to the center of our gathering. I hesitated and he said, “Your horse will be attended to by the others.” And so I followed him to the gathering of the old men with Dravok’s men. We sat in a wide circle and I was shown to a seat between Illihambur and Dravok. When Illihambur saw that I didn’t have my lute, he asked a fellow to go fetch it for me.
“Dravok”, he began, “I have heard of the Seven Guilds, but I do not think my young friend has.” “Please tell him of your country.”
Dravok looked at me and began, “My friend, I figured you were young and not well acquainted with your duties as an emissary. How long have you been in the service of the Emperor?” I replied, “I started only a short while ago, yes.” Dravok continued, “I knew this because in the country we do not make formal introductions for it is enough that we respect each other as dwarves and men … and half-elves too. Such behaviors are only expected in palaces, mansions, great halls, towns, cities and courts of law. This is why the young men were making sport of you. I wager you have never traveled in the company of a government official before.”
“Well, yes. I grew up in a small settlement near the Elven forest Allenhalvania and never traveled anywhere outside my locale until I journeyed to the capitol city to attend the Bardic College two years past. After that, I joined the service and completed my training as an ambassador and emissary, which led me to be here.”
“Enough about that Dravok.” Illihambur broke it, “Please tell Bene-Timber about your people. Someday you will thank me for this opportunity to speak to my friend for I can see he will do good things as an ambassador someday.”
About this time my lute arrived and I reached out and took it. It slid easily into my lap and I immediately began to check the tuning to prepare to play. Some of the young men began to sing softly, “Boing, boing, boing.” Illihambur raised his voice and said one word in another language I didn’t know and the singing stopped quite short. He smiled and nodded at me and I finished tuning the lute. He looked and said, “You play for us quietly while Dravok tells us about his country.” So I searched my memory for a song that would suit the occasion and began to play.
Dravok listened a little and then nodded his head as if he recognized the tune and then began to speak. My country lies north of Confernos beginning at the Sword Peak Mountains. The Dwarves have lived there since the first age of man after landing on the continent from across the Blue Sea. We dug a keep into the mountains on the north face as is the custom of our people and established farms on the slopes and plains in the shadow of the mountain. After a generation we were sufficiently established to begin searching for gold, platinum and precious gems in the mountains where we have found them before. Our advance tunnelers went into the rock and found new forms of rock we had not excavated before. We also found many rich seams of coal, which we could excavate quickly and tunnel through advancing our exploration. We found deposits of gems and gold and this reinforced our resolve to make a permanent establishment in the Swords. In those days everything was very good and happy because we had no boundaries. We could expand our mines as far as we desired so every dwarf could have his own place. But seventy years after we arrived we experienced our first troubles when the orcs attacked. They came from the east and attacked our farms in the hills. We were not prepared for an attack on that scale and many dwarves were slaughtered. And the stupid orcs didn’t take much because they were not prepared to raid and plunder a bountiful farm so while some of the farmer families were completely killed, many of their farms were otherwise unspoiled.
Word traveled quickly to the keep and throughout our land. The king sent out war parties to guard the eastern frontier of our farmland so that during the night you could see a line of campfires stretching far away to the north, a very distinct line of light in the night. And during the day, caravans of stone were brought down from the mines and the great eastern wall was built to protect us from the orcs. But all the while, and especially at first, the orc raids continued mostly at night.
Our warriors were diligent but after months of the same routine one can’t stay alert every minute. So the orcs would come and kill a few sentries before they arrived at the main force. And when they arrived at the main force we would return their evil with our vengeance. We killed many, many orcs in the earliest battles so that they pulled back and it looked like they might stop altogether. But dwarves live long lives and we don’t forget our kin.
And so the construction of the great eastern wall continued. The warriors began to relax a bit after days of no new activity. They began to compete with one another with the construction of the wall. Each company had a section of 400 strides they were building. And each company attempted to make their section better than their neighbors and the rest of them. Surveyors, engineers and architects had to look at the project and determine the requirements for the whole wall and establish standards so that all the sections of the wall were the right height, and a set thickness, with towers and battlements that showed consistency. They determined the wall would be eighty strides high, which made it very imposing against siege towers and ladders. The footings were sunken into the ground to give the whole wall more strength and in front of the wall we dug out the soil until we reach very hard ground so that there were no nutrients for grasses to grow that would give anyone some place to hide.
This was continued out beyond the wall for over a bowshot so we would know the range of our bowmen that would stand guard. Towers were made in each section that jutted out from the top of the wall. The shape was half of a six-sided shape so that one side faces directly at the enemy and the other two faces protect the towers on either side. The face of the wall is made of finished stone. The stones themselves are all very large having been quarried from inside our mountain from the hardest veins of stone we encountered. This helped provide protection against siege engines that would throw rocks at the wall should the orcs or other enemies decide to take the wall.
We took the good soil to our farms and spread it around evenly and this gave us an especially thick layer of rich soil to farm. But when the rains came the runoff collected in the low area beyond the wall creating a great soft bog where nothing grew. It is an eerie sight to stand on the wall and look out across our dwarven made wasteland. We had never built a project like this before for in our homeland the races lived next to one another as far back as recorded history. Boundaries changed often enough that nothing like this was ever before built in that land. But we had not experienced the senseless destruction of the orcs either. Never had an invading force killed more dwarves than they could plunder from. It was the most mindless evil we had ever seen.
And the orcs hadn’t gone away. When we defeated them soundly after one particularly large battle, the attacks stopped for many weeks. We went about our wall building and began the friendly competition among our companies. But the orcs spent their time planning how they would move against us next. They developed a new strategy to demoralize our guards. They began a campaign of snatching sentries, taking them back and torturing them. Sometimes they would return the mutilated bodies but often these dwarves were never seen again. Our leaders knew we couldn’t exist in this state even if we built the wall and they could never come in again. We couldn’t allow the orcs to take our sentries like this until we finished the wall. So we made the decision to go to war, find them, and if possible deliver such a defeat that they never wished to harm a dwarf again.
Workmen were summoned to take over construction of the wall and the companies assembled into battalions, and the battalions into brigades, and the brigades into a great dwarven army. And the army marched off to the east and campaigned against the orcs. Those were evil times and we do not like to speak of what happened for although we defeated the orcs, and delivered the defeat we wanted that would cause all orcs to reflect before attacking any dwarf ever again, we defeated our enemy by becoming our enemy and we are ashamed for it. And he trailed off for a moment and didn’t speak for many moments.
Our food was delivered to us and Illihambur had a man stand up while everyone removed their hats. And he quietly said a short prayer and sat down. And Illihambur stood and raised his mug and gave a toast to the Seven Guilds and to our guests. There was a cheer, especially from our guests, and he sat down and we began to eat. Illihambur invited our guest, Dravok, to eat and then tell us about the seven guilds. And so we ate together and drank together. Finishing our plates, the ladies came to gather them up and Illihambur excused himself, stood up and walked away.
He returned with a large leather pouch and a smoking pipe. He sat down and fished out another leather pouch, smaller and of supple leather and filled his pipe with herbs. He passed the small pouch to me and I guess I just looked at him, and then I raised it and sniffed it, which made Illihambur laugh. “You don’t carry a pipe, Bene? Here, I have a pipe for you”, he said as he produced a small pipe from a pocket in the jacket. I reached out and took the pipe and filled the bowl with some of the herbs and I asked, “What sort of plants are these?”
He replied, “This is dried Tocco leaf grown in Colorava where we are going. It is one of the finest trading commodities and is highly sought after from which we make most of our money. It is only because traveling is so dangerous with bandits … (he stopped because he didn’t want to mention orcs in front of Dravok) and other hazards, that we can make so much money from it here in Confernos. For this we travel with many men. And the long journey makes us want to keep our families with us. But many people in the country think we are a people without a country and they think we are bandits like gypsies. We are not bandits, but we bear their scorn to help our people by bringing back the riches of other countries. In this way we become enriched with the special things other cultures make and grow and in exchange they enjoy the finest tocco grown in the world.”
With that I had about finished trying to pack some of the leaf in my pipe and Dravok was looking with anticipation to me beckoning me to pass the pouch to him. I passed the pouch to Dravok and Illihambur produced two more pouches from his leather case. He passed them to the fellow on his other side who rose and handed one pouch to the fellow beyond. He stepped across to the dwarf sitting to the left of Dravok and handed this pouch to him motioning that all the dwarves were welcome to have a bowl of leaf. He then returned to his seat. Dravok finished packing his pipe bowl and passed the pouch to me and I handed it to Illihambur who handed it to the fellow seated to his right. Meanwhile all the fellows around the fire took the leaf and readied their pipes. Dravok and some of the men had placed the pipes to their mouth and were sucking on the pipe and the dwarves in particular were nodding their heads, but nobody had lit their pipe. And Illihambur turned and said, “Bene, since you are not accustomed to smoking a pipe, let your pipe rest here and let us enjoy a tradition from my country as we smoke our pipes. I invite you to stand and play your lute for us while we smoke our pipes as is our custom. Do you know The Yellow Flower in the Valley, a song from our country?”
I nodded and stood up placing the pipe gently at my seat, grabbing my lute and raising it over my shoulder and stepping forward turned round to face Illihambur and bowed my head. And he returned the bow with an inviting raise of his hand, and I began to play the song he asked for. I knew this song well and I played it using my best finger picking style and singing in my baritone voice about the yellow flower, which was actually a maid dressed in yellow that was promised to be married when her suitor returned. And as I began singing all the men lit their pipes and smoked quietly listening. And finishing that song I played another more upbeat song from the region which was well received and then a dwarfish song for our guests. And after that song Illihambur invited me to sit and enjoy my pipe.
He asked Dravok to tell me about the seven guilds, which were seven trades of miners that worked together in the mines. Some were tunnelers, and some were carpenters trained in making wooden braces for the tunnels, and some managed the mine carts and laying the track and so on. So I learned that Dravok, the master of the Seven Guilds, was a very important dwarf in his land. And Illihambur had managed to give me important information as well as a little education about the culture of this foreign land. And I knew that this important dwarven guild master had been convinced, or ordered, or summoned to see someone in the southern portion of Confernos, which was important information I should share with my contacts when I reached my destination.
And Dravok finished his story and I finished my pipe. And Illihambur knew one more thing I should want to know and he said, “Dravok, you carry a map, don’t you?” And Dravok replied, “Aye.” Illihambur continued, “I wager you’re anxious to resume your journey but I have a proposition for you.” He reached in his leather pouch and produced another bag of herb and held it up for Dravok to see. “For a copy of your map, I would trade you this bag of Tocco.” And Dravok looked at the bag and was dumb for a moment. And he said “Aye!” And he reached in his jacket and produced a paper and he opened it and looked it over. Then he looked to the dwarf on his left and said, in dwarfish, “Fanlean, give me your map.” And this dwarf reached in his jacket pocket and produced a paper and handed it to Dravok. And Dravok looked at the paper and nodded, and he handed the paper to me, and I to Illihambur. And Illihambur took the paper and handed me the bag of Tocco, which I handed to Dravok. And he took the bag and smiled as he opened it and looked inside.
With that Illihambur stepped forward and extended his hand to Dravok saying, “Good travels to you my friend. We’ve been on this trail for three days and have not seen any trouble. From there your path divides from ours, but I believe you will have a good three days if the weather is agreeable.” And Dravok took his hand, looked into Illihambur’s eyes and said, “And good travels to you, my friend, Illihambur. We have also had three good days travel on this path behind us. I know not where your path lies but may it be pleasant and smooth. And all the men and dwarves stood and removed their hats. And a man from Illihambur’s company said a short prayer for safe travel and everyone put their hats back on their head. And the dwarves filed out of the circle shaking my hand and shaking the hand of Illihambur their host. And all the men and women of Illihambur’s company made ready to get back on the road, for they knew how much further they had to go today.
I picked up my lute and my other stuff and walked over to pack my things for the ride ahead. And Illihambur walked up to me leading his horse and he handed me Dravok’s map saying, “I bought this for you. Let us ride together and speak of what we learned today.” And I accepted the map and agreed. Then I opened the map and I looked at it. It was a map made by a dwarf; that was very clear by the lettering. I noted that the map was a much larger scale than the one I had. And I looked at the strange symbols the dwarf had on his map and tried to sort out what they meant.
We mounted our horses and wagons and the young men began to ride forward on the path. We sat side by side on our horses as the wagons filed in behind the leaders and with the last wagon we began edging our horses forward with a few men riding behind us. “We have a long ride ahead of us this day because of our midday rest but I think it was well worth the delay”, he said. “What did you learn from our guests?”
I learned about the earliest history of the Dwarves of the Sword Mountains (We did not refer to this mountain formation as the Sword Peak Mountains as Dravok did). In my home we only knew the Sword Mountains were occupied by dwarves and their history was not something that concerned my countrymen. We did know of orcs that lived in the region to the east of the Sword Mountains. We faced these orcs a few times ourselves, but not on the scale he spoke about.
I learned that the dwarves organize their tunneling efforts into seven trades, which makes good sense. I learned that dwarves may be found as farmers and not just mountain dwellers, smiths and warriors as all the tales say. It does sound as if the avarice for gold and gems is accurate though. These fellows were well mannered but unfortunately a little stiff for my taste, but in the service I am not to permit these to be known. And now I am curious to see this land and the great wall they built. I enjoy a roof over my head and a paved street as much as anyone but I’ve traveled and seen communities from a distance too. It is clear to me nature is more powerful than man. But the picture he paints for me is to believe the dwarves altered the landscape in a profound way and I should like to see this great work before I die.
I learned that dwarves also place great value on your herbs. They are also careful with their information as well for I noticed he wouldn’t sell us his map, but his friends map instead. And I thought so before you confirmed it, that you went to some expense for my benefit purchasing that map and the information I learned. And you place value on the fact that I heard these things from Dravok’s mouth instead of your own. I don’t believe you learned these things today.
Illihambur looked over toward me and asked, “And anything else?” I raised my eyebrows and thought for a moment. Illihambur said, “The current leader of the Seven Guilds of The Sword Mountains is named Dravok and he is on official business apparently at the request of an official in Confernos somewhere to the south of here, or possibly he has been sent on official business there.” I replied, “Oh yes, yes.” “You remembered well and retained much of the information you should have from this meeting”, he said, “but you didn’t realize this was the most important thing.” “You will do well not to forget this but do not write it down. Share it with the officials you meet and you will find their favor.” Illihambur concluded, “Andante asked me to make sure you joined up with my caravan so that I could teach you a few things like this, and we have been friends for a long time.”
And so at the end of a long day I practiced my lute, I wrote in my journal, I reviewed the dwarven map once again and enjoyed a bowl of Tocco before going to sleep.
45th Planting, 221
Today started like the day before and the day before that. We rode until lunch and I played and practiced my lute as we rode. After lunch there was a little more movement and anticipation among the company because we would arrive at a settlement for the evening. The settlement was only a small hamlet I heard but it would be a welcome change from the life on the road.
We left the trees and the Verde Brook and were on a road again. The road went southwest to northeast and we made good time. We traveled through farmland again with halflings busy working on their gardens outside for the planting season was well finished. Halflings are quite fussy about their gardens growing vegetables, herbs and flowers. Their farm crops were mostly grain and beans.
A few farmers were out working on their fences, which were low piles of stone that wound through the low places between the hills and rises. Halflings seem to prefer making their boundaries this way avoiding hill tops while men tend to make their boundaries as straight lines until they run into a river or a mountain. Elves don’t seem to care for fences of any kind but they know their boundaries very well. When an elf makes a boundary marker of any kind, he is not trying to convey the information to other elves but to humans, or dwarves, or orcs or some other race.
We arrived at the hamlet as expected with plenty of light to set up camp but we had to be careful for our water. There was no brook to draw our water from but there was a well in the hamlet. Since we needed water for our animals we were only able to draw water from the well for them. We used water we had with us for our cooking and cleaning. The young men went with many buckets to the well as we arrived, but although I was preparing to join them Illihambur told me not to go. Instead he said fetch your instruments and come. So I grabbed my flute and my lute and even the two small crude flutes I bought before this journey began.
I joined Illihambur who was walking to see a halfling standing at the edge of the hamlet and there were children gathered near him. Behind us was a little parade of our children too. And as Illihambur approached the halflings expression broke into a wide grin as he extended his hand. Illihambur said, “Gelfin, how have you been?” and he extended his hand and they clasped warmly. And the halfling said, “Illihambur, you have brought me a bard. Thank you very much.” And with that he turned to look at me and extended his hand, “Welcome my friend. What is your name?” I took hold of his hand and looked into his joyous face and said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of …” “So you’re in the service?” he interrupted. “Very well. You look quite young for a half-elf in the service.” Illihambur said, “Well this is Bene-Timber’s first circuit working for Andante.” By now the children were jumping up and down with excitement and Illihambur looked over and said to me, “Bene, please play for the children. The love a visit from a bard. Andante would sit over there on the edge of that fence and play for the children every time he would visit.” And so I walked over to the fence and sat down.
All the children were circled around me and many of the halfling children were holding their fingers up in front of their mouths and whistling so that I believed they wanted to hear me play the flute. And so I got my flute out and began to play a happy tune with many flourishes and they were all so excited. And I remembered that Andante said I should share my small crude flutes to give children a chance to learn. I produced my two extra flutes and the children all clapped and quickly they were in the children’s hands and they were playing a bunch of random notes, making such a racket. I raised my forefinger to my lips and they quieted down. And I got my flute out and played a note and asked them to play the same note. I held my flute out so they could see the finger position and they tried to play the note. I helped on of them place their fingers over the holes properly and they played the note again. Then I played another note. And asked them to repeat that note. And again I helped the one child play the note properly. Then back to the first note and back to the second note. And so they got the hang of that. And then I got them to play the two notes in rhythm and we were ready. As they played the two note rhythm, I played a happy song over their notes and the children all began to grin and be happy. And several of them began to jump up and down because they wanted to play and some of them danced alone and some with a partner imitating the dances they saw from the adults. And we let other children play so everyone had a grand time. And all the while the adults from the caravan settled in for the evening.
It was quite a joy to see the children all jumping around having fun together. The halfling children and the children of our company all played together very well. And after a spell some of the mothers came over to watch the children and some of the older boys broke off and began to play with a ball and run around. And after a bit more I tired of playing the flute and desired to play the lute instead. So I swung my lute down from my shoulder and began to play a happy song and another. Before I knew it the time had passed and I needed to go eat dinner.
I joined the company of old men for Gelfin and a handful of other halflings had joined Illihambur in a circle around the campfire not very different from the meal I had with the dwarves the day before. Illihambur was seated on my right hand and Gelfin was seated at my left and a plate of food was brought to me but this time more like the food I was accustomed to from my home with chicken and green sprouts and potatoes. While we ate Illihambur and Gelfin talked about their affairs since they had last seen one another.
At an appropriate break in the conversation I asked Gelfin how long he had lived here. He replied he had lived there all his life. I asked how long had his family lived there. He said his family went back two generations before him at this hamlet and he didn’t know anything about the family’s history before that. I asked if had an official station or if his conduct as a leader in the community was unofficial. He said after a moment’s though that he supposed that he was the unofficial mayor of the hamlet.
I wanted to joke around with him and begin my next question with “Well, your honor”, but remembering my training I did not, for it could cause offense if he didn’t understand my meaning, so rather than joke around with him as I might joke with my close childhood friends, I asked how often he received visitors. He responded that he had talked with a group of dwarves only two days previous and before that he had talked with a group of soldiers three or four days before that. He thought and said, “I suppose I meet outsiders here about twice a week.”
I continued with a slight grin, “And how often do bards come through?” And he stopped short of putting a fork full in his mouth and said, “Well there are bards, and then there are Bards.” I wasn’t sure what he meant by that but I thought I might so I wished to clarify the point and said, “Do you mean minstrels and Bards?” “Yes”, he replied, “That’s it. There are minstrels and bards. And I suppose except for you fellows”, and he pointed at my service logo on one of my pouches, “I almost never see bards come through here. But many caravans have a fellow that plays an instrument well or not so well, and some fellows that think they can sing. Unfortunately these fellows lack one important facet in their musical career, even if they have musical talent, and that is understanding what is popular among our culture.”
“Bards”, he went on, “know a greater variety of music and they know what is appropriate around children and women. But these minstrels only sing what is popular in their homeland and often sing what is popular among a band of traveling men, mostly about women and war. But I knew you were not one of these fellows right away when I saw your insignia. And so I asked that you come spend time with our children for I am a music lover myself but I don’t want inappropriate music around my family and friends.”
Changing the subject a little, I asked, “Do any of your villager friends here travel?” And Gelfin replied, “We travel twice a year to the County Seat only a half day’s travel further on this road. We go to sell our crops and to buy seed. Beyond that we might travel to the County Seat for a religious festival now and then. But we are happy and content with what we have here. We delight in our gardens and the happiness of our friends. And we have plenty of friends”, looking at Illihambur, “that come to see us so we don’t have to travel to go see them.”
Illihambur broke in, “Ah yes, well said my friend. And I have something for you.” And Illihambur reached in his leather bag and pulled out a pouch and handed it to me to pass to Gelfin. And Gelfin receiving it had a wide grin for he knew what was inside. And he reached inside a pocket and produced a bag almost identical to the one Illihambur passed him, but his bag held little, and he passed it back to me. And taking the pouch, I felt it contained coins, and I handed it to Illihambur. And Illihambur took it and said, “Thank you.” And about this time we were all finished eating so Gelfin said to one of his men, “Bring up a cask for us to share, and have my son bring my lute.” And one of his companions stood up and walked away.
“Your lute?” I said. “I’m glad to hear you play too.” “Oh yes”, he replied, “I have been playing for many years, which is why I am the unofficial mayor I suppose.” And the children were getting up from their meal and the boys resumed the game with the ball. One of our young men came over and asked Illihambur a question softly, and Illihambur nodded to him so he approached Gelfin. He had his pouch with him and asked if he might buy a second cask for his friends to enjoy this evening. Gelfin said sure and he gestured to the fellow bringing a cask to the campfire. And Gelfin asked him to sell a cask to this young man and bring it up. And they spoke briefly and the young man indicated where the other young men were sitting and they shook hands before the young man headed to his friends and the halfling turned round and headed back to a building.
So all the halflings produced tankards and some women brought tankards to the old men in our company and I had my camping mug. And Gelfin received his lute from a young halfling I presumed to be his son, took it and began to check the tuning. The fellow next to Gelfin picked up Gelfin’s tankard and walked over to fill it while he prepared to play, and the fellow on Illihambur’s right picked up Illihambur’s tankard and stepped over and did not see a tankard sitting near me and stopped. Gelfin noted something was amiss and glanced over in my direction and he snickered a little and said to me with a grin, “Bene, may I call you Bene? Ah, good. Bene, we would like to give you a proper tankard for your journeying. Drinking ale from a copper mug isn’t the proper way for friends to spend time together, for we know not how much time we will have and we want you to enjoy the time you spend with us.” So I guess I sat there with a look of surprise because Illihambur said, “I believe Bene means ‘Thank you very much.’” So Illihambur’s man walked off with two tankards but returned with three. The one he brought for me was made mostly of wood and was fashioned like a tiny barrel. It was made in the same fashion as the tankards the halflings all used and Gelfin said this was to keep the ale from getting a disagreeable taste that can come from metal. I noticed that all the tankards in Illihambur’s company were made of fired pottery with ornate colorings. And I thought to myself how long I had been drinking ale from iron tankards in taverns when I grew up around men in Confernos. I said to Gelfin, “Well it is time I turned over a new leaf then.”
And all the men and halflings began to stand, and one of the halflings raised his tankard and said “To the Emperor! May he live for justice and protect the citizens of the Empire all his long days.” And the men and halflings all said, “To the Emperor!” and drank from their tankards. And one of the men said, “And to the Empress! That she will bring beauty to all these lands.” And the men and halflings said, “To the Empress!” and they all drank again. And then there was a pause, and Illihambur used his tankard to indicate it was my turn, so I stammered a moment and then I said, “To the bards in the service! Let them remember to share their music always with a glad heart.” And everyone raised the tankards and said “To the bards in the Service!” and this time everyone finished their tankards, except for myself, for I had not taken a deep enough drink during the first two toasts. So the men and halflings sat down, and I took a final drink from my tankard and sat down, but Gelfin remained standing with his lute, and he began to play. A halfling came by a moment later and picked up my tankard and Illihambur’s and returned a short while with them filled. And I sat and listened to Gelfin and admired his technique on the lute.
Gelfin’s lute was naturally smaller than mine and so it was tuned to a higher pitch. He played using a string picking technique a bit different from the one I used. He played very clean indicating that he both had the time and desire to practice often. And his musical structure was not the simple methods used by remote provincials or minstrel hacks. He had both talent and training and I wanted to know how he came to be so well educated. Gelfin played quiet ballads and a couple love songs before wanting to sit back down. He sang with a good clear tenor voice and this intrigued me further. So as he sat down, I asked, “Gelfin, that was very fine playing and singing. Where did you receive your training?” And Gelfin smiled to me and said “Thank you sir, but it is time for you to play and not time for me to talk.”
And so I grabbed my lute and stood up, and I searched my memory for the right tunes, and I began to play a ballad of a brave halfling warrior who traveled in the company of dwarves and defeated a dragon with the help of his company in a far away land. And as I reached the first chorus Gelfin joined in with his clear tenor voice and sang harmony with me as everyone enjoyed the music. It was very beautiful in the night air with only the insects making their rhythmic noise in the background. All the women stopped their fussing about, and the young children stopped their playing and the boys stopped wrestling over their ball and everyone sat transfixed listening to the music and the pop of the logs burning in the fire. And when it was over, I was very sorry that it was. It was the best feeling I had for better than a month. And so I turned to Gelfin and I bowed to him and removed my hat with a flourish and said, “That was very beautiful indeed, my friend. When I can, I will make this village a stop as I travel through these parts in the service.” And Gelfin nodded his head and extended his hand and said “And we will have ale together each time you do.” And with that I cleared my mind and began to play another tune.
46th Planting, 221
I rose early with the company but my head was not clear for I had enjoyed plenty of ale the previous evening. I gathered my things and packed my horse. Next I sat down with the young men to enjoy breakfast and tea.
Gelfin came out to speak to me and to Illihambur and I asked him what I could give him for the tankard and he said it was no bother. We shook hands and I said that I would be back to learn about singing and playing from him. He smiled and said he looked forward to that.
A short time later we mounted up and began our ride to the County Seat, Stonebridge. We rode past several more halfling farms and I recognized some of the farmers from our gathering the previous evening. I played my lute as we rode and observed the people and the countryside.
We arrived at the County Seat and even though it was near midday there was no mistaking this was our destination because there was a well fashioned stone bridge over a brook that ran alongside the near edge of the town. And for a County Seat this was a small settlement so I knew I was near the frontier.
Illihambur rode up and asked me to ride to the head of the column with him. As we rode, he reviewed some information I should share with the governor of Stonebridge. He said the path we used went over the stone bridge at Verde Brook, not the main road. He reminded me that we met and ate noon meal with Dravok, the master of the Seven Guilds from the Sword Mountains. And he also reminded me that he was traveling into southern Confernos on business with seven warriors and carts.
Illihambur then told me there was a protocol in use at this settlement by order of the governor. All adventurers were required to surrender their weapons at the town limits upon their first visit and they would be taken to the governor’s mansion. I would receive an invitation to dine with the governor at the evening meal and after this meal, if I had not offended the governor or disturbed his advisors, I would receive my weapons back and be given a conditional license to carry weapons in Stonebridge. But since I was in the service already, I would be given an exception and not required to surrender my weapons. However, to receive this allowance I would have to produce my credentials and observe the formal protocols as I did when I met Dravok. Since I was going to stay over in Stonebridge the company would continue on after undertaking some business so we would soon be parted.
At this, Illihambur raised his hand for the company to stop. He dismounted and walked leading his horse forward. He used a stick and he drew something on the ground I did not recognize. He beckoned me forward so that I could take a good look. I looked down and saw some design like a glyph. Illhambur said if he ever needed to contact me by message or messenger, this symbol would certify that the message was authentic from him. He stated again that he did business here regularly so we would cross paths from time to time. But while our country used this network of emissaries, his country employed him in a similar role. This is why he knew what sort of thing to teach you as we rode through the countryside together. He hoped I would pledge myself not to betray his confidence and report him as a spy to our governor, and for this we would agree to work together sharing information if we believed it was necessary. He said he already had pledges from several bards in the service but could not share names at this time (although I was certain he meant Andante as well as others). And so I pledged to him that I would not betray his confidence if he would do the same for me in his country, should I ever need to journey there. And I pledged to work together sharing information and added that unless I heard otherwise, only Andante would know of anything I learned from Illihambur. And he nodded to me and stamped out his design in the dirt. He reached in his saddlebag and produced a pouch of fine supple leather holding something less than a half-quart of substance and I knew it was dried Tocco leaf. He handed the pouch to me and said it would do for about twenty bowls. And I took it gladly and reached back and placed it in my saddlebag. And I asked him what I could pay him for the meals and the pipe he gave me and all the extra help. Illihambur said there was no need. He was sure if I were to stay in a town with a tavern I could earn enough to pay for my room and meals and his company was sufficiently enriched by my presence that he was glad to share these gifts with me. Not wishing to insult him I accepted his generosity and leaned down and clasped his hand looking him in the eye and said, “Thanks. I look forward to my next chance to travel with your company.” And in a mock Dwarven accent he said “Aye.”
Illihambur mounted his horse and motioned for the caravan to continue forward. A moment later we were riding over the bridge and I heard the loud “clip clop” of the horses on the stonework of the bridge. At the other side there were three guards. We rode slowly up to them and they indicated with a hand wave for us to stop. We stopped and dismounted. The better dressed guard said to us, “State your business.” And Illihambur said “I am the master of this company of merchants travelling back to our home in Colorava. Here are my credentials.” And he reached inside his saddlebag and produced his leather-bound letter bearing an official seal allowing him to do business in Confernos. He gave it to the leader who returned it only after an instant. The leader said to him, “We’ve met and your company may pass the town unhindered. Do you still abide the regulations?” Illihambur said, “Yes, we will abide.”
Turning to me the leader said, “You on the other hand are not a member of this company and I don’t recall we’ve met, have we?” I said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” With that I made my practiced bow as instructed and produced my credentials. And he took my credentials and opened them and quickly closed the booklet and returned them to me. He said, “Counselor, I must ask you to stay while a messenger reports your arrival to the magistrate’s steward. They will send someone for you. Please let my sentry lead your horse to the shade. Take anything you want from your horse and I beg that you will come rest inside while we wait.” I nodded to him and reached over and took my journal from the saddlebag since I was already carrying my purse, my lute and my credentials. He indicated to the doorway of the building immediately to our left which was some sort of guard house with bars over the windows and a very heavy wooden door with iron fittings.
Stepping inside it took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the light. Four guards inside immediately stood when they saw me enter, and they looked to their leader, who I began to believe was just a sergeant. He looked at one man and said “We have a new emissary from the Emperor, Binny-uh what.” I removed my hat and said “Bene-Timber.” The sergeant went on, “Please go report to the Steward and have someone sent down to receive the Emissary.” And with that the guard grabbed his hat and left. “Counselor, if you would care to sit at this desk while we wait? May I bring you cool water?” I replied “Yes, that would be nice, sergeant, is it?” “Oh, yes sir. Sorry sir. I am Sergeant Trent, sir.” I sat in the chair behind the desk and placed my journal, my credentials and my hat on the desk. I then pulled my lute around and adjusted myself so I would be comfortable while I played and we waited. A large cup of water was set before me and I had a drink before tuning my lute.
Deciding to be gracious, I asked one fellow if he had a song on his mind. “Oh, what sir? Oh, no sir.” He replied. So, I nodded and asked the next fellow. And he replied, “Oh, anything you want to play sir would be fine with me.” And I nodded. And so, I decided to play a bright tune often heard at festivals and other outdoor celebrations. As I played, I tried to size up each of the men there with me. They were clearly uncomfortable with a real official in their midst. It seemed Sergeant Trent was the most uncomfortable. My playing did set the other men at ease but it didn’t appear the sergeant could relax. I began to think I was sitting in his chair.
Completing the first song, I asked if they could suggest another, and one fellow spoke up. “Could you play The Elven Maiden?” I said “Of course.” And so, I played and sang The Elven Maiden for them. This continued to put them at ease. And so I played and sang another two songs before there was a knock on the door. The sergeant opened the door and the fellow on the other side said something and the sergeant said “Very well. Wait outside and fetch water for his horse.” And the sergeant closed the door and turned to me and waited with an expectant look on his face. I stopped playing and glanced up. He said, “It should only be a few more minutes, sir.” And so I played another song or two.
There came two crisp knocks on the door and it opened. In stepped a soldier dressed in armor and a ceremonial tunic, red with a yellow border, that came down below his waist. He waited for his eyes to adjust and I stood up. He glanced around and found me and bowed a short bow from the waist and said, “I am Bartholomew, servant to the Captain of the Guard, Sir Martinex, in the service of the Governor, Lord Ballinor, Magistrate of Stonebridge. I am to escort you to the Governor’s Mansion presently.” I took hold of my hat with my right hand and bowed deeply at the waist with a flourish and replied, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor. Please lead on.” I reached down and took a drink of water finishing the cup. I grabbed my journal and credentials from the desk and followed Bartholomew outside.
Once outside, I found my horse and placed my journal and credentials back in the saddlebag. I asked Bartholomew if it would make him uncomfortable to lead my horse so that I could play the lute while we walked. He did not mind so I asked him to lead the way. We walked up the main street over fine crushed stone so I didn’t hear a loud “clip clop” this time. I played another bright festival tune as we walked and the townsfolk all took notice of the minstrel walking up the street with the governor’s servant. I asked what the buildings were as we passed by and he informed me of each building owner, whether it was a residence or a business, and what the business would be. It was clear for any of the shops for they had easily identifiable signs out. And a few you could tell by the smell even if you couldn’t see.
We rounded a corner to the left where this street met another main street and I could immediately see where we were going. A large building on the right-hand side of the street with enormous white columns supporting a shallow porch two to three stories high was clearly the most impressive building in the town. Unlike the other structures I had passed, this was all masonry construction. There was a porch three steps raised from the road, which fed into two extra large doors on the front, with glazed windows on either side. The ground immediately around the building was covered in green grass, obviously cared for by someone that knew their craft. There were two sentries on the porch bearing long pole arms. I noticed a temple and shrine just a bit beyond on the road to the left side, and these were also surrounded by luxurious green grass. I asked Bartholomew, “Who is the Temple dedicated to?” He replied, “The Goddess of the Harvest, for this is an immense agricultural district in the Empire.” “Ah, yes.” I replied.
And we walked to the front of the palace and he asked that I wait in the shade of the porch while he delivers my horse to a stable boy. He disappeared with my horse around the corner and reappeared a moment later. The two guards as stiff as statues while I waited for Bartholomew were almost too tempting for me, for I wanted to try my best jokes on them, but I feared if they were to break they may be severely punished, which I did not want. Bartholomew reappeared and we went inside. He asked that I wait for him to fetch the Steward and asked if I needed anything. I said simply, “I am fine Bartholomew. Please go see the Steward.” And he disappeared again.
While I waited, I wondered how it was that I was being treated like a Lord. Could it be that the Emperor expected such behavior toward the lowest officers in his service that I would be accorded such deference? Or was this only because I was so far from the dozens, no hundreds, of high-ranking officers where a lieutenant is seen a dozen times walking by before breakfast but Colonels and Generals are uncommon?
A thin man with poor posture and pale skin came through a doorway and smiled at me and stepped another three steps toward me. He bowed at the waist and looked up extending his hand saying, “I am Cottorn, steward to the Magistrate, Lord Ballinor.” I returned his bow and took his hand firmly saying, “And I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary to the Emperor.” I continued, “As you well know I must need to see the Magistrate.” He replied, “Please come this way so we may sit and talk, Bene-Timber.” And so I followed him through the doorway on the right and down a corridor into an office, most certainly his office, past a scribe busy at his desk, who stood up most suddenly upon seeing me that I’m sure he gained a notable bruise on his leg judging by the expression on his face an the awful noise he made. Cottorn held open the door for me and I stepped inside the office and he followed directly closing the door behind him. He indicated a large wooden chair near his desk inviting me to sit down. He placed his hat on a peg near the door and turned to me. “Your hat sir?” And I handed him my hat, which he placed on another peg. He stepped by and behind his desk and said, “Would it please you if we dispensed with formalities, sir?” I replied, “Certainly, I am new to the service but I am no poff.”
He relaxed and sat down in his chair. He went into his desk and produced a box of rolled Tocco leaves, took one out for himself and offered one to me. I took one and asked that I might have a tall cup of cold water. He replied, “Of course.” He stood and went to the door, opened it slightly and said something and closed the door. “In only a moment.” He returned to his desk, sat down and reached for a candle already lit on a stand to light his Tocco leaf. I accepted the candle and lit my own. He reclined a bit and blew a great cloud in the air. There was a knock at the door and he said “Come.” in a loud voice. In stepped the scribe with a tray holding two large glasses of water and a large pitcher made of silver. He placed it on Cottorn’s desk as he indicated, handed me one glass and then handed the other to Cottorn.
I took a good drink from the glass and looked at his desk, when he realized and said, “Please, go ahead.” And I placed the glass on his desk. I said, “I’ve been on the road all morning and I need to wash the dust from my throat.” He took another long pull on his leaf and waved it as if to say, “Of course.” Then he said, “You’re new. And you’re early. We expected to see Andante in another two or three days.” And I took my own draw of my leaf and replied, “Yes, I only received my credentials this past week. You say Andante will be here in two or three days?” Cottorn replied, “Yes, that is when we expect to see him, why?” “I saw him immediately before I left the capitol and he gave no indication he would be traveling this way so soon.” Cottorn replied, “Well that is when we expect to see him. He may come or he may not come. We are not his master. I am glad you have arrived in good condition. May I see your credentials?” I jerked in my chair and exclaimed, “Lizard Feathers! I forgot to retrieve them from my saddlebag.” Cottorn grinned and replied, “No bother, I’ll have them brought to you.” And he stood and went back to the door, opened it and said something and closed the door again. He returned to his seat and said, “He’ll be along in a bit. Except for forgetting your credentials folder, you have presented yourself perfectly. I wanted you to know this because while people don’t say these things to your face, many, ahem, friends of the court … watch for breaches of protocol and delight in making gossip about these things. In this mansion such errors take a long time to matter but there are other governors with less on their minds than Lord Ballinor that might choose to make too much of small errors.” “Thank you.” I replied. “I traveled with a caravan from the capitol and I was called on to settle a very minor dispute between the master, Illihambur, and a dwarf traveling the opposite direction. I gave my proper introduction as required and it seemed they all thought it a great joke.” Cottorn thought a moment and said, “You did what you should have done. Remember you were representing the Emperor and those provincials can think what they want. Did you say, Illihambur?” “Yes, I came in his caravan to Stonebridge.” At this he stood up quickly and went back to the door. He opened it and saw nobody there, he called back to me and said, “Please, wait here just a moment and I shall be right back.” And he disappeared and closed the door.
I stood up and walked to the window to look out. I caught sight of a few members of the caravan in the street and I could see they were talking with some townsfolk, presumably trading for something. Then I saw a servant approach the caravaners and spoke briefly and then paid for two bags of Tocco leaf and turned back to the mansion. I took another pull on my leaf and I heard someone knock on the door. I walked a few steps and opened the door and the scribe was standing there holding my credentials. He obviously didn’t expect me to answer the door and stood dumb. I reached out my hand and said “Thank you.” He released the credentials into my hand and went back to sit at his desk. He arranged a paper, dipped his pen and began to write. I was about to close the door when Cottorn stepped into view carrying two bags of Tocco leaf. I smiled at him and he came swiftly into the study and closed the door. “Ah”, he said, “you have your credentials. May I?” And he sat behind his desk, set the two supple leather pouches on the desk and reached out a hand for my folder. He looked at the cover, then opened the folder and admired the certificate within, closed it and returned it to me.
Cottorn took another draw on his leaf and said, “This Tocco is not bad, but there is nothing to compare with the Tocco sold by Illihambur. I should like to send a wagon to his country and fill it with dirt from his fields so that I could grow such Tocco here. You did buy some for yourself, did you not?” “Yes”, I replied, “I have a pouch for myself at his insistence.” “Very good!”, Cottorn replied. I didn’t want to tell him Illihambur gave me a pouch full.
So Cottorn continued, “Why did a half-elf want to get into the service?” “Where do you hail from?” I replied, “I grew up in a town in the empire near the Elven wood called Allenhalvania. Have you heard of it?” Cottorn replied, “Allenhalvania, of course. But the town name is?” I nodded and said, “Tahgrum. It is a comparatively cosmopolitan town being on the main route to the Elven lands and beyond.” Cottorn said, “Is it now? What sort of goods do you trade there?” “We hunt many animals in the wood so we trade skins and we attract some Elven craftsmen so we have some fine metalwork, weapons and armor fashioned there as well. The Elves trade with us their potions, garments made of wonderful fabrics noted for both their texture and coloration and fine jewelry. We supply paper and metals to them which comes from elsewhere in the Empire. What goods does this province trade?” Cottern replied, “We are mainly an agricultural district so we send large quantities of grain and beans to the Empire. We also have sheep farms so we have more wool than we need and we have a logging settlement that produces finished boards beyond our needs, but the Empire looks to us to feed a great many people. For these things the Empire sends us dyes which we use on our wool and iron which we make tools and hardware for our buildings. But mostly the Empire sends us soldiers on their way to somewhere else.” It didn’t take any diplomatic skill to detect his derision toward the Empire using Stonebridge as a base for soldiers moving about.
“Well sir, I must get to my business.” I continued. “As you know I am obligated to see the Magistrate. Are you the man to see about an appointment?” He responded, “Yes, I can arrange for your introduction. As a matter of fact, that is quite a simple matter with Lord Ballinor. He holds a dinner each evening where the important figures in the town discuss events. He expects you to attend this dinner tonight because you arrived today. After today, he will let you know if you are to attend dinner other nights. The first night of every visit you are expected to attend the dinner. You are also expected to let Lord Ballinor know when you are leaving the town and where you expect to go. Beyond that, you are free to visit in the town as you like. Since you are new, I may like to spend more time with you so that we may become better acquainted.”
“OK, what time should I arrive for dinner?” I asked. “Six o’clock is when everyone gathers but we probably will talk a bit before we eat around six-thirty”, he said. I replied, “Very well. Is there anything else I should know?” The steward said, “Remember your credentials, and I recommend you bring your lute. Until then, I recommend the Green Hawk, the inn and tavern you passed on the left immediately before you turned onto this street. They have a warm hearth, sturdy tables and good ale for a crowd that would likely be very generous if you should want an audience tonight.” “Well, thank you very much, sir.” I replied. “And where will I find my horse?” Cottern replied, “See a guard at the door and he will have a servant see to your needs, but we will need to finish these”, holding up a bit more of his rolled leaf, “before we leave the office.”
I stood and took a step to the window to look outside while I took a draw on my leaf. Cottern stood also and turned to face the window. “How long has this town been here?” I asked. “The town was established thirty-two years ago after the treaty was signed. The powers in the capitol recognized the importance of this region for the farmland and its proximity to the orc settlements far to the west. Strategically they wish to keep the western orcs at bay while forces focus on the orcs to the north.” “So”, I responded, “that covers the majority of the political issues in play in this region?” “Yes”, he said, “That’s about it.”
I finished my leaf and then finished my water. I placed the glass on the tray. Cottern stepped passed me and took my hat from the peg and handed it to me. “I trust you know your way?” And I replied, “Yes, thank you. And thank you for the leaf and the advice on lodging. I guess I’ll see you around six.” He opened the door for me and said, “Good day to you, sir.” With this I stepped out of his office and the scribe stood up more carefully this time. I walked past him and down the hallway to the main door.
I saw a guard with apparently little to do so I asked, “Is there someone that may assist me in getting my things over to the Inn?” He straightened up a little and replied, “I’ll have someone with you in only a moment, sir.” And with that he disappeared down the left corridor. He returned with a boy trailing behind and he pointed to me (which was a breach of protocol I elected to overlook since there were no other officials about). The boy walked up to me cautiously and said, “Sir, may I be of any assistance?” He was clearly scared to be talking to someone he didn’t know and I thought I would cheer the little fellow up. “Good day, young man. I am Bene-Timber, a traveler from the east, and I would appreciate a guide who may show me about this fair settlement, Stonebridge. First if you could guide me to the stable where they have my horse.” “Your horse sir?” he said with a look of slight panic on his face. The guard piped up saying, “His horse is the golden one in the barracks stables, Peter.” And Peter spun around to see the guard looking at him and then it registered, “Oh, the barracks stables. Yes! I know where that is.” And turning quickly he brushed by my and stepped back saying, “Oh sir, I’m very sorry sir. Please sir, this way.” And he spun about and headed for the door. As I turned and walked behind, one of the guards rolled his eyes as if he were embarrassed the boy could not calm down.
Stepping through the door I donned my hat and clutched my credentials in my left hand. I followed the eager boy off the porch and to the right down the street only a short distance. We passed a small building and then the stable was set back from the road. Like the architecture in most of this town, it had a low stone foundation that rose about two to three feet from the ground, with a wooden frame and plaster filled walls rising about eight feet to the sill. The roof had a modest pitch, typical of this region with not a lot and not a little snowfall each winter. The roof was finished in slate tiles and not thatch indicating it was a government structure and not a private building. Only government buildings and the very wealthy were finished with slates. The structure was painted red except for the woodwork, which was white, and the stonework, which was unpainted. There was a door for men and a wide double door for animals, and Peter stepped in through the double doors rather hurriedly. I stepped to the ‘man door’ and tried the knob. It was not locked so I opened and stepped through carefully just in case something was beyond I didn’t know about.
I removed my hat and let my eyes adjust to the light. I could hear talking in a low voice and when my eyes found the sound, I could see Peter talking to a workman wearing a dirty white apron, a pale blue work shirt and brown trousers. He had shoes on his feet but he used a piece of rope for his belt. He was a little thick around the middle and balding and he looked to be helping Peter with some advice. I looked at the ground around me, for I was in a stable wearing good boots, and stepped closer to the pair. I looked the man in the eye and introduced myself, “I am Bene-Timber. I arrived with the caravan and I believe the soldier led my horse over this way when I went to see the steward.” The man straightened up and said, “Yes sir. We have your horse right here”, and he waved behind himself to his left (my right). “What may I help you with sir? Is your horse in need of attention? A blacksmith?” “Well, I need my saddlebags from the horse, and the horse does need to be cared for after four days travel here from the capitol.” The man immediately stepped toward the horse and I followed. Peter followed the both of us. He reached the stall where my horse was placed, turned and faced me indicating my saddlebags were removed and hanging from the low wooden divider between stalls. The saddle had also been removed and placed in the back of the stall on a piece of wood made for it. The saddle blankets were airing out on a rack and the bridle was hanging beside the saddle.
I said, “Well I see you have already been seeing to my horse. I presume you will have him brushed watered and fed?” “Yes sir, I will.” I replied, “Very good. I do not expect to need him today. Do you have apples to spare in this town?” He responded, a little quizzically, “Apples sir, uh, yes we do have apples at the market. Would you care for me to send Peter to bring you some apples?” “And how long”, I continued, “would it take Peter to bring us some apples?” I looked at Peter with a smile. “He stammered, “Sir, I can run and be back here with as many apples as you wish shortly.” “And how much for apples from the market today?” “I can get two for a copper, three if they’re a little small.” “Oh no, I like large apples. Well let’s see, there is my horse, and there is me, and the two of you, so you shall need two coppers I guess?” “Yes sir.” And I reached in my belt purse and handed him two coppers and said, “Well be off and bring me four good apples.” And Peter reached out and grabbed the coins and took off out the door. And I looked over to the stable hand and said “Do you have good feed for my horse?” And he replied, “Yes sir. We have plenty of feed for your horse.” “What do I owe you for the feed and your services?” “Oh, nothing sir”, he said with a little apprehension in his voice. “I can’t charge you for this. It is my job. And the feed is for all the soldiers horses and yours as well.” “OK then. But the Magistrate won’t object I hope”, and I handed him two more coppers, “For my horse is looking forward to his brushing.” And he held out his hand and I dropped the coins into it. Peter returned with four apples. I looked over them and picked one for myself. I asked Peter to pick out one. Next I asked the stable hand to pick out one, and said, “I don’t think my horse is so finicky and he will be pleased with that one.” I turned back and looked the stable hand in the eye and said, “But sir, I did not get your name.” “Oh yes, sorry sir, it’s just I’m not used to, well I usually only care for the animals, uh, sorry, Ben, sir, that’s my name, Ben.” And I nodded my head and said, “I am glad to make your acquaintance, Ben.”
I looked at the saddle bags and gaged that Peter was up to it. “Peter, could you get those bags and come show me to the Green Hawk?” “Yes sir”, he replied a little more at ease with his situation. And as he reached and pulled the bags over his shoulder I said, “Good day, Ben.” And with that Peter and I headed for the door, although I again used the ‘man door’ to exit, unlike Peter.
Again in the street, it took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the light for the sun was very bright. And Peter waited for me in the street and I stepped forward. He turned and headed up the street with my saddlebags over his shoulder and the apple in his hand. I would have pulled my lute around if I were not carrying my credentials in one hand. So, I took a bite from my apple and nodded to the people that walked by as we made our way. I passed by two of the young men from the caravan who looked over toward me with broad smiles and they sang “Boing, boing, boing”, as I went by, and I smiled and took another bite.
And presently we arrived at the Inn with the wooden sign of a green bird silhouette. Peter took hold of the door and opened it for me and followed me inside. I removed my hat and waited for my eyes to adjust to the light and took in the place. There was a massive fireplace on the opposite wall. Heavy wooden tables were arranged in three rows aligned with the wall to my right. On my far left there was a bar with several stools and where it ended there were a few more tables. Toward the far wall a stairway led up to the second floor. There was an open area and a balcony and the stair led to a third level, where it appeared the rooms would be.
I stepped over toward the bar where a man was busying himself with some cleaning and I said to him, “Good day my friend. I am Bene-Timber, musician, messenger and traveler from the east. I would that you may agree to provide me a room for a night or two.” He looked up from his work with a scowl, for what reason I knew not, and said in a gruff manner, “Yea, well …”, and he paused, “well, what do we have here?” And I bowed at the waist with a flourish, “Bene-Timber.” He started to say something again, but a quick glance at the boy made him stop, and then he restarted, “Well”, he paused, “I’m sorry but I wasn’t expecting anyone, er, business this early, ah, sir. You say you would like a room?” “Yes”, I replied with a smile, “Your establishment”, and I waved my hand through the air, “has been recommended to me by the Steward, Cottern.” “My establish …”, he paused, “Oh yes, Cottern, you say”, and he frowned, checked himself and looked at me with a smile, “Yes, I have a room that I hope will suit you, sir.” “Boy”, he continued, “take those to the room at the end of the hallway at the top of the stair where the sound of most travelers will not bother my guest.” And Peter knew the place and began to take the saddlebags up. And he looked again at me and I believe this time he noticed my lute slung across my back. “So”, he said, “Will you want to play for your supper like the others?” I furrowed my brow and then brightened up and replied, “What is the usual arrangement for … a minstrel?” He replied, “Minstrel, … Did you say Cottern? OK, minstrel, well, how long will you play tonight?” I replied carefully not knowing what he was aiming at and wishing to make the best impression, “I can see you are uneasy because you don’t know me. I do not wish to take advantage of you because I know the Steward. Tell me my friend, what do you charge for the room at the end of the hallway, the best room that you want to give to me so the other guests won’t bother me?” “I, uh”, he paused again placing his hand on his chin, “I would, uh, like to get a silver piece …” I cut him off, “Here”, and I flipped him a silver piece immediately, “and I would appreciate it if I could play this evening when I return from dinner. In this way you may have your full price for the room without any risk that I am a charlatan or jester, unable to entertain your guests to your satisfaction. And I further wish to give you this guarantee … How much for a tankard of your best ale?” He was now standing almost stunned by the change of events, for it did appear he thought I wished to weasel out of paying for my room and a meal tonight posing as an accomplished minstrel. “I uh, would like two coppers for that sir.” “And so it shall be!” I replied with a broad smile. And I fished out four coppers. I slapped the coppers on the bar and looked at him smiling. “If it please you, I will pay now for two tankards of your best ale tonight. When I return I will walk to the hearth and I would like the first tankard brought to me, and I will drink from it and begin to play. When you think your guests have had enough of me, bring me the second tankard. I agree to finish my song and take the tankard and sit down. I won’t be the least bit of a bother to you or your guests for I have been here a few hours and I already have taken a liking to Stonebridge.” And when I was finished he reached out and took the coppers and replied, “Well thank you very much. How can I say no to this agreement?” And after a moment of silence I said, “But, my friend, as I have taken all the risk, I would like to make it clear that I may keep all the coins offered in appreciation for my time this evening. I have a stout heart and no fear that I shall recover my coin, but I do not wish to take advantage of you, so if I am able to stay on, we shall discuss terms for more nights by the hearth if you like.” “That sounds fair enough.” He replied. And I asked, “I do not believe you shared your name, sir?” And he replied, “I am Tony, er, uh, Anthony, but you may call me Tony, please.” And he extended his hand and we shook hands. I bowed a little head bow and said, “I shall go up, wash the road off and rest a bit. Please let me know when it is five o’clock.” And he replied, “Yes, sir.” And with that done, I turned and headed up the stair. Meanwhile Peter had come back down the stairs and left.
At the top of the stairs I walked to the end of the hallway and opened the door and looked in at my accommodations. The bed did appear to have fresh linens and the floor was swept with a rug. There was a coat rack in the corner to my right where I hung my hat. A table in the opposite corner had two chairs. I walked across the room and set my lute in one of the chairs and placed my credentials on the table where my saddlebags had been placed. I walked back to the coat rack and removed my rapier and dagger and belt, which I placed neatly in the corner at the coat rack. Next I reached around and unfastened my leather armor. I pulled it free and set it upright on the floor at the foot of the bed. I stepped back to the table, and removed my boots and my socks and placed them neatly next to the dresser. I retrieved a pair of stockings and my better shoes and placed them on the floor by the foot of the bed. I removed my padded shirt and my street shirt and stepped in front of the dresser. There was a large bowl and a pitcher of water as expected, I poured the water into the bowl and washed myself off. I hung my street shirt over the back of the other chair, laid the padded shirt by my armor and removed my pants. These I folded neatly and placed in the seat of the chair. I removed my undergarment and folded that neatly. I fished out a set of good clothing suitable for dinner with the Magistrate and laid everything on the bed. I returned to the dresser and finished washing myself off. I took a towel that was left for me and dried myself off. I stepped over to the bed and put on fresh clothes but not anything on my feet. I stepped to the window and opened it just a bit to feel the air. I decided I would like to leave the door ajar so a breeze could refresh the room. I stepped out into the hallway and down the first bit of stairs to the landing. I called out for Tony and he stepped into view. “Would you be able to send someone to handle my wash?” And he replied, “Yes sir, certainly.” And I replied, “How much?” And Tony said, “No sir, all for a silver piece, there is no need.” And I nodded and returned to the room.
Upon entering the room I decided to lay on the bed and relax. A short time later I could hear the steps of someone rising the stairs. There was a soft knock at the door and I stood up and said, “Please come in.” A maid stepped in and asked what she could take for the wash. I smiled at her and she blushed. I picked up my pants, shirt, padded shirt, under garment and socks and placed them in her basket. “This is what I need washed out. I have been on the road four days. Could you send someone to get the water in the basin and bring me a fresh pitcher?” She curtseyed and said, “Yes, m’lord. I shall see to it for you.” And she pulled the door behind her as she returned down the hall. And I returned to the bed.
There was a knock on the door which startled me from a light sleep. I must gave dozed off and I panicked for only a moment until I could see it was still quite light out the window. I had not missed my appointment for dinner. I stood up and said, “Please, come in.” A boy came in and he was startled to see me. “What is the matter young man?” He replied, “Your ears. I was surprised to see you are an elf. Nobody …” I cut him off, “I am a half-elf, from Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania, but still inside Confernos. And you are from around here, I guess?” “Yes, yes sir I am.” He replied. “I’m here with your water pitcher sir.” “Oh”, I said, “Set it down and please take the bowl away and bring it back empty. What time do you think it is?” He said, “It is getting near five o’clock sir. A few workmen are beginning to come into town.” “Good”, I replied, “Thank you, uh?” He stared at me for a moment and raised his brow and said, “Timmy. I’m Timmy.” And I said, “Wait a moment”, and I retrieved a copper piece and handed it to him. He said, “Thank you sir.” And left pulling the door behind him.
I went to my saddlebags and retrieved a wash rag and dipped it in the pitcher water. Then I took hold of my belt and rapier strap and began to wipe all the road dust from them. Oh how I kicked myself for falling asleep before attending to this. At least I didn’t need to wash and polish my boots. I would wear my fine shoes instead. Finishing this chore, I placed the rag by the window. Then I dipped my hand in the pitcher and sprinkled a few drops of water into my face and rubbed it in. I combed my hair and tied a piece of cloth round my head at the hairline. I pulled on my socks and slipped into my shoes. I stood in front of the mirror and checked myself out. I retrieved my rapier, belt and dagger and put them on, returned to the mirror and checked myself once again. I then took the lute in my hands and pulled the chair around so I had the best view out the window. I played a bit of finger picking music as I thought about the formal customs I should remember tonight. Playing this way helped to settle my nerves so I could think and concentrate more clearly. After a little while a soft knock came and I said “Come in.” without rising. The maid stepped in with the bowl and I nodded at the dresser without stopping my playing. She stepped to the dresser and placed the empty bowl on the surface, picked up the pitcher and placed it in the bowl as was the proper fashion, and turned and faced me. She didn’t say a sound and I realized she was almost transfixed listening to this music. I stopped playing, because a thought crept into my mind that I shouldn’t dare act upon, and I said to her, “You must go now, for I have some preparations to make before I visit the Magistrate tonight.” And she curtsied and left, pulling the door closed behind her.
I resumed playing and smiled because I had forgot how else that music might affect people. They taught us a few of these songs in the college and we practiced them for a good reason, but hearing them so often I forgot all the various powers that were woven into the music. My effort to focus my thoughts tonight overcame her and she was focused on something else so that I had to break the spell.
I played another tune and looked out the window. The streets were becoming busy now. Workmen were returning from the fields and some women were moving about for one reason or another. I decided to go down into the street and make my way lazily to the Governor’s Mansion. I wanted to practice influencing people with the secondary goal of filling this tavern with guests tonight. I picked up my credentials and left closing the door behind me.
Arriving at the first floor I asked, “Tony, you can lock my room, yes?” “Yes, sir”, he replied. “Thank you. I must go to dinner and I shall be back in good time I hope.” And he said, “And I too sir. You are no charlatan for I could hear your music down here. Enjoy your dinner, sir.” And I donned my hat and went out the main door.
In the street people were passing by quickly with some purpose, so I wanted to see how I might affect their mood and I began to play a local festival song. Immediately folks turned their heads to see who was playing, but they mostly kept walking. When I began to sing, they slowed or stopped and gave me space to walk by slowly while I was singing and playing. I smiled at the faces and nodded to the ladies and kept singing and stepping down the street. I hoped that making an entrance coming from the Green Hawk would plant the idea in their minds that I might well come back when the sun was down to enjoy the evening.
I walked and played, nodded and smiled, until I was near the mansion. I thought there was time that I might step down to the stable and see how things were for Ben and my horse. I walked past the mansion and as I did, I could see there were a few folks following me. As I took the last few steps Ben stepped out from the stable and smiled at me. I concluded my song and there was a light applause. I bowed at the waist with a flourish and said, “Thank you, thank you folks. I am Bene-Timber, musician, traveler and messenger from the east. I hope you may join me later at the Green Hawk tonight.” And I replaced my hat and turned to speak to Ben.
“Ben, how fare you?” He replied, “Well, sir, that was some fine playing and singing.” And I said, “Is my horse all set?” He said, “Oh yes sir. He got a good rub. He’s watered and fed and enjoyed his apple, and the core of mine as well. He’s a fine animal, sir.” And I replied, “Very good, very good. Thank you for your help.” And he replied, “It was my pleasure sir, to do this for a fine generous man such as yourself.” And I bowed my head and said, “I must need go to dinner then. Excuse me.” And Ben bowed his head in reply.
And with that I turned and began playing as I strode to the mansion. Folks again listened and gave me place as I passed. I arrived at the mansion and concluded my song on the steps. I turned and bowed to the crowd and said, “I am Bene-Timber, musician, traveler and messenger from the east. Thank you for your attention but I must take my leave. Good day to you all.” I turned and entered the mansion.
Inside I looked about to see who I should speak with. There were a few folks inside the atrium and some guards, but one fellow appeared to be in a uniform but not a military man judging by his physique. He wore a tabard of red with yellow borders along the edge. The neck opening was carefully tailored with a yellow band along the inside edge, and the front of it bore a Coat-of-Arms in yellow, red, blue and green. I stepped toward him and said, “I am Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor.” He replied, “My name is Lloyd Dustilorn, and I am the Herald for the Magistrate. I was told you were coming tonight. As you are the only guest tonight that has not been introduced to the Magistrate, I shall call for you last. I do hope you understand, it is my duty.” And remembering my lessons I replied, “Of course it is. No harm, and as I have been in the service a full week, I should probably not deserve any more. Do not let my forty-two years make you believe I am a veteran of these affairs.” He winked at me and replied, “Very good sir.”
And so knowing I would be last I thought I might do well to meet a few of the other guests. I stepped away from the Herald so that others might approach him if they needed and I took a fancy to one fellow and walked over to make my introduction. “Good evening sir, my name is Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor. And you are?” Extending my hand, he took it firmly in his and replied, “I am Erick, a lieutenant of the Magistrate’s guards. And where do you hail from?” “I am from Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania.” I replied. “And you?” He replied, “I am from Rangoon, where my family are prominent metal smiths. I am the second child, so here I am in the service.” “My family are hunters and make a good living in furs. I however believed at an early age I should try to make a living as a musician. If it doesn’t work out, there are still plenty of fox and deer for me to hunt back home.” Erick raised his eyebrows, “So the Elves don’t take exception to your hunting the wild animals in their wood?” “They are quite concerned,” I replied, “and we are raised in Tahgrum to understand the rules for hunting in Elven lands. If you are studious, accurate and precise about the rules, the Elves respect your hunt. No nets or dogs may be used to entrap and panic the prey. Motherhood must be respected, so if you see a nursing mother or a mother with her fawns you must leave them be and not even panic the poor beasts. Even stags and bulls may not be taken at night. And so on.” “It sounds like it is very complicated.” Erick replied. I continued, “Rangoon, I heard of this place but I don’t recall where it is.” Erick said, “Ah Rangoon, it is a lovely place. The important buildings are made of a beautiful white stone so that from a distance the city shines bright in the sunlight. If the architecture were different, I might imagine it would look like an Elven City, but I hear they don’t have cities in the same sense as we know them.” Then Erick stiffened up, “Please, here comes my captain.”
The captain stepped up. He was a tall man, broad chested with a proper military bearing. He spoke first, “Erick.” And nodded his head. Erick knew his manners and immediately introduced the fellow he was speaking with to his captain. “Sir, this is Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary to the Emperor, of uh, Tahgrum, is it?” I nodded and he continued, “Yes Tahgrum near the Elven wood. Bene-Timber, this is Lord Martinex, my captain, and Captain of the Guards of Stonebridge.” I straightened, bowed at the waist and said, “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Erick was telling me of Rangoon and the beauty of it. Where do you hail from, m’lord?” He took my hand and we shook as he stared into my eye and glanced at my ears and then looked back into my eyes. “I am from Derlin on the coast. Do you know of it?” I replied, “I regret that I have only been in the service for a week and am not so widely traveled to know of the great places throughout Confernos. I beg you, tell me of the beauty and wonders of Derlin.” He let out a short “ho” at that and then said, “Derlin is not a place of beauty and wonders my silver tonged friend. It is a place of fish and crates. Fish and crates are everywhere on the docks and in the warehouses. There is also a shipyard but little more. We receive goods from afar and have them shipped overland into Confernos. We catch fish and salt them before we ship them overland. We build ships and mend sails and make great quantities of rope. We have sailors walking through town making trouble day and night. We have rogues that try and take advantage of the sailors and anyone else when they can’t find a sailor to molest. We have a lot of things but we don’t have much beauty and wonder.” Hoping to steer the subject into something more pleasant for Lord Martinex I continued, “So you joined the service to experience a different life?” “Well, I joined because I am the second son and expected, you know, and my family had enough means to send me to the capitol for an education. I left Derlin at sixteen with a small chest of clothes and a small bag of coin to join myself to a school that could teach me to fight. That is when I had the greatest fortune to meet Lord Ballinor. We became immediate friends and he convinced me to join the college he was joining. We have been together since.”
At this time the Herald signified the Magistrate was ready for the dinner to begin and the two officers had to assemble for the entry. A dinner with a governor is a formal affair that begins with servants making the dinner hall ready. The room is swept and cleaned and the tables are arranged for the number of guests that will come. The Governor’s table is always at the North and the other tables are arranged depending on the size of the dinner. For a formal reception dinner the governor eats at one table with a few advisors and the guests sit at other tables. Places were arranged by the Steward, who had to know the right protocol for each guest. Only the governor could make exceptions and it would be a serious mistake for the Steward to place someone in the wrong spot or at the wrong table.
The primary court guests would be invited in first. They would stand unless the governor sent word that they should sit and wait. The Herald would announce the Governor and he would enter with the guests standing. After he sat, the guests could sit down. Then other guests would be announced, enter and join the dinner. This would occur in a set hierarchy so that the more senior guests would be allowed to know the names and positions of every guest lower than they were in court. And I would be last, of course.
As a Bard I knew there was no reason for me to take any offense for being recognized last. Some fools though do take offense if they believe they should be recognized ahead of other guests. Except for the occasion where the Steward makes an obvious blunder, which he knows would be a mark against him, it is very unwise to make anything over a mistake whether the guest is in the right or wrong over it. But I had the added benefit of being so new to the service I had no expectation of being senior to anyone.
And the guests filed in and I was the only guest not sent in immediately. The doors were closed and I waited. I heard the Steward announce the Magistrate and after a moment I heard the scraping of chair legs on the floor as everyone was seated. There was a tiny bell and the two great wooden doors were opened in front of me. I was standing centered with my hat in my left hand and my lute strapped to my back. I did not step forward. There were two guards on my side of the doors and two more on the other side of the doors. The Herald stood on the right-hand side just inside the doors, raised his staff, and brought it down three times, Bang, bang, bang. “My Lord Ballinor, I present Bene-Timber, messenger and emissary of the Emperor, his highness Emperor Alexander of Confernos, Defender of the faithful, son of his highness Alexander II, Vanquisher of the Orcs, and third grandson of his highness Emperor Alexander I, Conqueror of the Andorean Plains.” And he raised his staff and brought it down again, Bang. I took a few steps into the room and stopped, waiting to be recognized by the Magistrate.
From his seat he called to me, “Bene-Timber, please approach and be seated.” I stepped to the table, paused and retrieved my lute from my shoulder. A servant stepped forward and I handed him my lute and my hat. Next I sat at the only remaining seat across from the Magistrate at the table opposite him. The Magistrate turned to the Steward who said, “My Lord, Bene-Timber has presented his credentials and is certified.” Lord Ballinor turned to face the assembly and replied “Very well.” With that, servants approached and poured water for everyone while the great doors were closed behind me. I noticed there were soldiers in ceremonial tunics spaced around the room. One was behind the Magistrate in splendid armor holding a large shield with a Coat-of-Arms painted in the middle. Another just to the right of the Magistrate behind him also in splendid armor and he was holding a two-handed sword. A third soldier was behind Lord Martinex in the same splendid armor holding a large shield without a Coat-of-Arms, but painted with a red and yellow border on it. And a fourth soldier was off to Lord Martinex’s left holding a broad sword. A fifth attendant was standing in clerical robes well off to Lord Ballinor’s right. Besides these men, there were soldiers in light armor and ceremonial tunics spaced along the walls around the room. They were armed alternately with a spear or sword and shield.
After the water was poured, the Magistrate took a drink and set his goblet down. Others then began to drink from theirs as they willed. Bread was brought for everyone and speedily distributed. The Magistrate buttered a piece and pulled a piece of the roll and ate it, returning it to his bread plate. Others then ate bread as they willed. A servant entered and the commotion died down. He recited the menu for the evening; Lamb with berry sauce, rice and gravy, green beans. Servants brought out the Lamb already carved on a great platter, served the head table beginning with the Magistrate and his wife, and on down. Another servant brought a great bowl with the rice followed by a group of servants carrying gravy boats for each table. More servants came with bowls of green beans for each table. All the guests were served and the bowls were set on the tables. The platter of lamb was set on a small table in the center of the room. Next, wine was brought in, served to the Magistrate and his wife and then the other guests. Servants with water and wine waited around the room for anyone needing more. These servants held a pitcher in one hand and a dinner towel over the left forearm.
As the meal was wrapping up, the Magistrate turned to his Steward and asked if there were any formalities he needed to attend to before speaking with “Bene-Timber?” He indicated none and so the Magistrate turned to me as silence fell over the room. He began, “Bene-Timber, you are a certified Emissary. A graduate of the Bardic College?” I replied, “Yes, my lord.” He went on. “Have you traveled far?” I replied, “I have only traveled four days from the capitol here. This is my first provincial visit, my lord.” Lord Ballinor asked, “Have you any news then?” I scooted my seat back a step and said, “With my lord’s permission?” He waved his hand upwards and I stood. I stepped away from the table and faced the Magistrate. “Lord Ballinor, I travelled in the company of a merchant from Colorova, Illihambur, and learned that he was returning by this way to his own country with eleven wagons, men and families. We encountered an important Dwarf travelling to the south to a destination in Confernos. His name is Dravok, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre. He hails from the Dwarven Kingdom north of here in the Sword Mountains. I learned he is old enough to know about the time the dwarves landed here after crossing the Blue Sea. He is traveling with carts and seven warriors. Last night our company overnighted in the halfling village to the south-west and they appear in good order and spirit, one and all. I believe Andante, who has been assigned to mentor me as I complete my initial training, should be along in four days. I have no correspondence for you, my lord.”
Lord Ballinor considered what I reported and repeated, “Dravok, you say, Master of the Seven Guilds of Tyre, on business to the south?” I replied, “Yes, my lord.” He turned to the Steward, “You know of this already, Cottern?” The Steward replied, “Yes, my lord. The emissary has already reported this to me. I have made the appropriate notations in the logs, my lord.” “Very well.” Lord Ballinor replied. “Have you made arrangements for tonight, Bene-Timber?” I replied, “Yes, my lord. I am staying in a room in the Green Hawk, my lord.” He responded with a musical note in his voice, “Of course you are, my young bard friend. And a half-elf. Where were you born?” I responded, “I was born in Tahgrum, next to the Elven wood Allenhalvania.” The Magistrate went on, “Well I expect you have plans for the evening so I invite you to play for us two songs and then you may take your leave.” I turned to face the servant with my lute and he stepped toward me. Lord Ballinor added, “You have my permission to carry weapons in the town as a servant of the Emperor. You need not be escorted, but I expect you to report to the Steward when you arrive and depart from the town so he may be informed about your status here.” I replied, as I raised the strap of my lute over my shoulder, “Yes, my lord.” Cottern added, “Please see me in the morning so I may make the appropriate notations in the records.” I turned and nodded to Cottern.
I checked the tuning of my lute quickly and turned to face the Magistrate. He nodded and I began a ballad of Alexander II fighting the orcs and driving them from Confernos. As I sang everyone enjoyed their wine and there was some quiet talk among the guests. Next I played a festival song with finger picking, something I expected to be familiar and popular in the area. At the conclusion of the second song, I bowed to the Magistrate and the other guests for their applause. I turned to the servant holding my hat and he brought it to me straight away. I took the hat from him and holding it in my right hand I turned to the Magistrate and bowed once more with a flourish, and said, “I beg my lord grant me leave so I may visit with the folk and establish my relations among the citizens of Stonebridge.” “I grant you leave.” He replied simply. And with that I turned to the door and walked out. The guards opened the door for me and I strode into the atrium and out into the street.
I could see it had been dark for about an hour so I went straight to the Green Hawk to play, only a short distance from the Mansion. Arriving at the Green Hawk I stepped inside and removed my hat. I strode over to the hearth and saw a small table set there for me. The table was near the hearth and too small to be used by anyone wanting to sit down. It was a customary table for a musician under these circumstances. I placed my hat on the table and a pouch trimmed in bright colors on the table next to it. This was to collect tips from the patrons of the tavern. I swung my lute around and checked the tuning. A serving maid came over with a tankard of ale for me and set it on the table. I reached down and took hold, raised it and took a good draw from the tankard. I raised it up to Tony and he nodded in my direction with a smile, and I took a second drink. I raised the tankard to the people and there was a cheer. And everyone quieted down. I strummed a chord and began a love song first without the lute and then later with the lute as the emotion of the lyrics rose and then quieter as the song ended and I could see that I was going to have a good night. I played on for two hours and Tony never sent a second tankard over to me. He was pleased to hear me as well seeing that his patrons were staying late into the night. When I was ready I took hold of my bag of tips and held it up high by way of thanks to the crowd. I tucked my hat under my arm and held my lute in my right hand and walked over to the bar. Tony met me there and handed me a second tankard of ale.
I spilled out my tips and began sorting them and counting out my success. Tony asked how my dinner went and I said it went exactly how I expected. “We had fine lamb and rice with green beans, bread and wine.” “Sounds tasty”, he replied. He went on, “There is a fellow that asked to meet you. He is over there in the corner at the end of the bar. I will introduce you.” I followed him to the table he indicated and there was one fellow seated at a table wearing the clothes of a woodsman.
“Bene-Timber, this fellow is Flint, a Ranger. He spends most of his time up in the village Pine Mill. Flint, this is Bene-Timber, messenger and musician for the Emperor.” Flint made a small smile and indicated he would like me to have a seat. I placed my tips purse on the table and set my hat over it. I placed my lute on the table and pulled my cloth bag (which holds my credentials) off my shoulder setting it on the table. I sat down and looked at Tony asking for one more tankard. He stepped away. Flint took a drink from his tankard and said, “So you are a new bard come to spy on us?” I was taken back that he would start with this, like this. It was very undiplomatic and imprudent if he were really seeking information. I responded, “Many people think we emissaries are just spies but they usually disagree on who we are spying for. I am a loyal servant of the Emperor and what I learn is for him and his officials. I would like to know we can be friends.” He fished in his pocket for something and produced a pipe. He grinned and fished in his pocket again and produced a supple leather bag of tocco. A serving maid delivered my tankard. He packed his pipe and lit it, and I smelled the sweet aroma of Colorovaian leaf. I took a sip from my tankard.
Flint said, “Well said my friend. We are both friends of the best man in this province, Andante.” And he puffed again. “He asked that I meet you today and you arrived on schedule. Illihambur says you were a pleasant traveling guest, and Ben says you’re a very likeable fellow.” “Illihambur and Ben said that, did they?” “Yes, they did. You understand what I am telling you, or need I go on?” “No, I understand. [Flint was telling me plainly that he had many friends, good sources and a good knowledge of MY affairs even though he had never met me before.] “So what would you like to talk about tonight? Or are you going to provide some more advice as one of Andante’s friends?” “I am not teaching you so much as taking your measure”, he replied. “You have a bright future if you remember all your lessons as well as you have learned from the College. Your playing was very beautiful. You carry yourself exactly as you were trained and you speak in the proper way for a diplomat and … messenger.” He took another pull on his pipe and I another draw on my tankard. He glanced around to make sure we were speaking privately. He asked if I could play a tune while we talked; something unusual, foreign perhaps. This was a code. He was asking me to use my bardic talents to disturb anyone who might be trying to listen. Against low level characters it would work perfectly. Against mid-level characters it would work but also be a dead giveaway we were trying to avoid being overheard. Against high level characters it wouldn’t do any good at all for I wasn’t so well rehearsed. But I lifted my lute and played something exotic as we chatted. Again Flint nodded with a small grin.
Tomorrow I need you to join the Cleric who will travel to Pine Mill. He will leave from the shrine early so you will need to bother Cottern again tonight before too long as you must tell him you are leaving Stonebridge. Tell him you want to visit Pine Mill and the other towns before Andante arrives. Cottern will have the scribe update your credentials as you were instructed earlier. When you get to Pine Mill, I will be there waiting for you, but there is no hurry. Just travel with the Cleric and have a chat with him on your journey. It is only a morning walk to Pine Mill.
I pretended to be paying more attention to my lute but I remembered every word. “So if I am to leave early I will need to see him tonight. And he will be annoyed with me.” Flint replied, “Yes, I’m afraid so. You could see he is not the adventuring type and appreciates the creature comforts of life in the mansion, so yes, he will be annoyed. For that reason, you best get up and take care of it straight away.” I glanced up and he took another pull on his pipe and I feigned interest in my lute some more. I glanced up again and Flint nodded his head ever so slightly and I knew he was finished and I need not play any longer. I finished my tune and relaxed a bit. I reached for my tankard and took another drink. “Flint, I will need to buy a trunk and some more clothes. Is there someone you would recommend in Stonebridge or elsewhere in this province?” He took a draw and replied, “There is a fine seamstress here in town named Isabell. See her about the clothes. You want to buy your goods from Moses. He has the best shop for many miles and carries quite a variety of goods. He has quite a network of suppliers and you will do well just to visit him to see what he can provide in the future. There is no need to carry a box of candles around with you when you may buy any number you need while you are here. His shop is only right next door.” I finished my ale and stood up. “Thank you for the advice. I shall see them soon, I hope.” And with that I picked up my cloth bag and slung it over my shoulder. I placed the lute over my back, picked up my hat and my bag of tips and walked over to the bar. I placed five coppers on the countertop and winked at the serving maid. I said “Tony, I’ll be back in a bit but I must run an errand.” He looked up from the tankard he was cleaning and said, “At this time of night?” And I replied, “I’ll be back shortly. Thank you.” And I walked to the door and stepped out into the street.
A short walk and I was back at the mansion. The guard challenged me and when he realized I was one of the dinner guests from earlier he asked for my pardon and let me inside. Once inside I asked another guard to send word that I must need see the Steward, immediately. The guard spoke to a servant who disappeared down the hallway. A short time later, the servant returned and said, “Follow me please, sir.” And he led me down the hallway to the Steward’s office. There was a faint glow of a single candle from the outer office. He offered me a seat and I declined saying I didn’t expect to be long. The servant stood a bit uneasy, trying not to stare at me, but there was nothing else to look at in the room. I lifted my tips and dumped them out on the scribe’s desk and began to count them again. Next I scooped them up and placed them in the purse I wore on my belt. I balled up the colorful cloth pouch and placed that in my pocket. And in stepped Cottern dressed as if he were coming to the office for the morning.
He greeted me formally, “Good evening Sir. What may this humble servant of the Magistrate do for you at this hour?” He was clearly annoyed that I had required him to come to the office after dinner. But he didn’t feel he could refuse so he dressed as the Magistrate expected of his servants and came to the office straight away. I smiled and tried to be understanding, “Good evening, Cottern. I apologize but I have business I must take care of immediately. The Magistrate said I must report to you when I leave the town and that I ask you to update my credentials folder in this office. I must need journey to Pine Mill in the morning and I hear that I have the opportunity to join a young Cleric that will be going that way. I understand he leaves early so that I must bother you tonight.” Cottern relaxed a bit, “Oh, I see.” He sat down at the scribe’s desk. He went into a drawer and got a quill and opened a bottle of ink. He reached for a second candle and lit it from the first then placing it a candle holder.
He looked up and I handed him my credentials folder. He turned to the next page and wrote at the top Stonebridge in a lovely script. Underneath he wrote By order of Lord Ballinor. And beneath that he wrote, The bearer is entitled to carry weapons in Stonebridge. Also the bearer need not report to the mansion immediately upon visiting the town, but shall attend the governor’s dinner on first night. The guards shall report to the mansion his arrival in his place. He signed the page at the bottom, wrote his title, Steward, and then made an odd symbol next to his title, leaving a bit of open space on the page above. He retrieved a small pottery bowl from the desk with a bit of dirty water inside. He dipped the pen in the water. He placed the pen back in the desk and the pottery bowl. He placed a cap on the inkwell. He pushed back from the desk and stood up. He said, “I need to get a seal from my office. I’ll be right back.” With that he reached in his pocket, retrieved a key, unlocked his door and went inside. He came back out after only a moment with two square stones, a piece of metal and a mallet. He placed one stone on the desk, set the piece of metal over that, which I could now see was engraved, and then placed the folder with this single page sticking out over the metal piece, and then capped it off with the other stone. He raised his hand holding the mallet and came down sharply with a bang, shaking the two candle stands and the inkwell. He placed the mallet on the table, lifted the stone and set it aside and then moved the booklet near the candle to examine the seal. Satisfied, he handed me the booklet and I held it closer to my face to see for myself. He picked up the things and said, “If that will be all sir, I will return these to my desk and make the appropriate entry in the morning.” “Thank you, yes, that is everything.”
Wishing to moderate the inconvenience I added, “Cottern, is there anything I may bring you back from Pine Mill?” He stopped half-way through the door to his office, turned and said, “Yes, if you could bring me a wooden bowl about this size”, and he made a bowl with his hands, “I would appreciate it. There are good carvers in Pine Mill.” And I responded, “Very well.” And Cottern stepped inside his office. He came out and acted surprised that I should still be standing there. He looked at the servant, who hadn’t moved or said a word, and Cottern said, “You fool.” And he made a dismissing motion with his hand at him. The servant said, “If you will come with me sir?” And I nodded to him, and then nodded to Cottern, who then had to stand up straight and nod back to me. I turned and followed the servant to the front door. Arriving in the atrium he asked, “Will there be anything else, sir?” And I replied, “No I’ll be headed back to the Hawk. Thank you.” And he smiled and opened the door for me and I stepped out into the night air.
The guards snapped to attention and then relaxed. I gaged the hour to be too late for entertaining so I did not pull my lute around. I stepped to the edge of the porch and looked up at the stars. There were many stars visible in the clear night sky and I thought it shall get cold come the morrow. I walked the short walk back to the Hawk and stepped inside. Things were wrapping up and maids and Tony were busy cleaning up. I had not noticed the strong odor of wood smoke, ale, perspiration and whatever they were serving from the kitchen when I came in earlier. I must have smelled quite gamey myself earlier, and the smell of smoke masked the other smells when I returned from the mansion earlier.
When Tony saw me, he stopped what he was doing and met me at the bottom of the stairs. He said, “We’ll go up and I’ll unlock your door for you, Bene-Timber. May I call you Bene?” I replied, “Of course, that would be fine, Tony.” And so I followed him up the stairs to my room. As we left the second floor I believe I noticed someone in the shadow looking our way but gave no indication I noticed. We arrived at my door and Tony unlocked it for me. He stepped in and lit a candle for me. I placed my hat on the coat rack and removed my lute, placing it on one of the chairs. I returned to the coat rack and placed my rapier and strap there. I removed my dagger and placed it on the table at the bed, reached for a second candle and lit it from the first. I placed this on the table with my dagger. I walked to the dresser and began unbuttoning my dress shirt. All the while Tony was waiting.
He cleared his throat and said, “Bene, could we discuss tomorrow night? I see you made quite a profit from playing tonight. I’m rather ashamed for implying you might not be a good musician.” He smiled at me and continued, “You are really quite good, although I didn’t recognize what you were playing when you were talking to Flint.” I replied, “It was something Flint asked me to play. I’m still working on it and polishing it up.” Tony went on, “Well, I would like to offer you a standard arrangement for folks, folks like yourself, and offer to let you stay free and provide three meals, water, tea and coffee, to you, provided you play for three hours in the evening. You need only split your tips with me.” I paused and thought about it. It sounded like a standard deal. If I played three hours in the evening, I need not take any risk that I wouldn’t have enough to pay for my lodging and meals. I would be assured half the profits from my playing. And it was clear that Tony would profit handsomely as well for his half should be more than the cost of putting me up and he would get much more sales elsewise for my entertaining. So after thinking about it I replied, “Let’s agree to this deal for this week, provided I am allowed to keep this room the whole week. I should not want to be shuttled around at your whim just because some other customer wished this room with the window.” Tony shifted his weight and then said, “Well, I, uh, OK. For just a week?” And I replied, “Yes, let me see how it goes and we may discuss it again later.” He turned to leave and I called after him, “I must be on the road early tomorrow. Please wake me. Do you know when the Cleric departs for Pine Mill?” He responded, “Oh, Joseph, he leaves pretty early.” “Well I need to join him in the morning. Please wake me so I may eat my breakfast in time to join him.” He responded, “Yes, sir.” And he stepped out the door pulling it closed behind him.
After the sound of his steps faded down the stairs, I went to the door and opened it slightly and peered down the hallway. I tried to see [perception] if I could get a glimpse of anyone spying on me or evidence of anything amiss, but there was nothing and no one. I closed the door, stepped across the room and retrieved the other chair. I set it against the door to block it closed. I returned to the dresser and finished undressing. I folded my good clothes and set them on the table. I retrieved a night shirt and pulled it over my head. I retrieved my folder and took another look at the new page and the raised seal of the Steward. I put that way. I retrieved my journal and my writing things and recorded the important events of the day. I made a few mental notes to acquire a map from someone in the court, to visit the seamstress, Isabel, and the merchant, Moses. I also wanted to see what sorts of things I might find in the town for future reference, their quality, and make note of what businesses I could find here. It was clear looking at the architecture that a group of capable stone masons and carpenters were to be found. I also wished to assess the size of the garrison here without the help of the townsfolk, as a means of practice for the future. But first I would travel to see Flint and see what that was all about. Most things he could have told me in the tavern so why did he need my whole day in Pine Mill?
My writing done, I blew out one candle and went to lay on the bed. Through the slightly open window I could hear the grasshoppers, crickets and other insects singing. There was an occasional “hoot” from an owl earning his keep for the night, or the cry of a wolf far off. I could hear the footfall of a few men in the street and I suspected they were part of the watch. I relaxed and thought how nice it was to sleep on sheets tonight, and I blew out the other candle.
47th Planting, 221
A knock came at the door and I opened my eyes. Another soft knock from the door. I call out, “Good morning. Thank you for coming to wake me.” And as I twist around to put my feet on the floor I hear a soft, “Good morning. Breakfast is being made.” from a female voice. I stand up and look about. I reach down into the drawer and find a match to light the candle, which provides much more light into the dim grey room. I take the candle by the stand and light the candle on the table by the window. I place the candle on the dresser and pour water into the basin. I reach in and get a handful of water and rub it into my face. Then I grab my wash towel and I dip it in the water and wash off all my skin. I walk over to the window and I can feel the cool air from outside. I can see the sun is lighting the sky but not yet on the horizon. I remove my nightshirt and I place it on the chair moving my lute slightly out of the way. I bend down and take the washed clothes from the basket delivered to my room yesterday and I dress. I place an inner shirt over my chest and then the padded shirt that goes with my armor. I sit down and pull my socks on and then pull my trousers up my legs. I sit back down and pull my boots on and then I stand up and walk over to the door. I grab the chair leaning against the door and I place it back by the table. Returning to the door I grab my belt and wrap it around my waist. I step over to the night stand I pick up my dagger and place it in the scabbard hanging from my belt. I pull a piece of string from the blanket on the bed and I reach up and place it on the moulding over the door and stick it there so it hangs down over the top edge of the door. Satisfied, I turn back to the window and close it and secure it. I blow out the two candles. I return and open the door stepping through. I pull the door almost closed and I turn and look down the hallway [perception]. I take a few steps to the stairs and I look down the stairs and then back up the hallway [perception]. I don’t see anything out of place. I walk back to my room door but as I close the door I reach up and set the string so it is hanging cleanly inside the door as I close it. If anyone enters the room while I am out, I will see the string hanging out of place over the door. I turn and head downstairs.
As I descend to the ground floor, I see a table has been set for one where I sat with Flint the night before. From this table I can see every entrance into the room. A maid is fritting about cleaning things and she turns when she hears me coming down the stairs. She turns to face me and she flattens her skirts. Next she pulls her hands behind her back and a smile comes across her face. She curtsies and says “Good morning, my lord.” “Good morning”, I reply, “Uh, I don’t believe I caught your name?” She blushes a little, apparently flattered that I should want to know her name, and replies, “Priscilla, my lord.” She continues, “I can bring you coffee, my lord. The breakfast will be along any moment.” I respond, “Thank you. Coffee would be quite welcome, Priscilla.” She smiled and turned to fetch the coffee.
There was a little talking as she rounded the door and she followed an older woman back into the seating area. The older woman was carrying a plate with my breakfast and she was carrying a mug of steaming coffee. The older woman placed the plate before me and stepped back a half-pace. This stopped the maid, who stepped around the other side of the table and placed the mug down on the table on the wrong side of me. The flat wear and a napkin were already there. The older lady just looked at me. The young maid asked if there was anything else I should require. I asked for something to sweeten my coffee. And she stepped back a half-pace saying quietly, “Of course, my lord.” Turned and went around the corner. I noticed the older woman shot a glance over her way as she said that. Next she said, “May I bring you anything else, my lord?” “Spices”, I replied. “I may enjoy some spices on my breakfast.” She said, “Of course, that will be only a moment, sir.” The breakfast was scrambled eggs and some sort of porridge in a bowl with a hunk of bread. Apparently there was a local custom where this bread was dipped into the porridge because it was already deliberately dipped in the stuff. The younger girl returned with a small bowl of honey and a straight wooden stick dipped in the honey. I raised it out and stuck it in my coffee and stirred. The honey quickly dissolved into the hot liquid and I raised it up and let it drip before returning it to the bowl. I raised it up and took a drink. I was good coffee, maybe a little strong, but very helpful in raising my senses and my mood. She flattened her skirts again and said, “Is there anything else, my lord.” And the older woman returned with a small tray of spices. Now she was forced to go around to the other side of the table. She set the tray down and said, “We didn’t know what you fancy, so we brought you a collection of jars.” I looked over her way and I said, “Thank you. Uh?” She stopped and sputtered, “I am, my name is Christina, my lord.” “Thank you, Christina.” She stepped back a half-pace. I glanced at both women and said, “Do you think there is a chill in here?” They both spoke at once. Priscilla said, “There is usually a chill …” and Christina said, “Oh, sorry sir. Uh, my lord. We don’t usually make a fire in the morning, but I can … Priscilla, go fetch an armful of firewood.” And with that Christina stepped over to the fireplace to set a fire.
Without either of them looking at me, I reached down and took hold of my spoon and tasted the porridge. It was fairly flat in taste and so I placed my spoon down and examined the spices. I picked up each jar and smelled each one. Favoring one, I touched it and brought my finger to my tongue. Thinking it would do, I took a pinch and sprinkled it into the porridge. Next I sampled the eggs, which tasted like eggs. No surprise, thank the Fates. I smelled the spices again and took a pinch of pepper and a pinch of salt. I took another drink from my coffee. Priscilla entered the room from an exterior door with an armload of firewood. She brought it to the fire place where Christina was kneeling. They had a fire going in only a moment which brightened up the room for its light and warmth. They stood and looked over my way but I wanted to busy myself with eating because I needed to keep my schedule. They both came to stand on the other side of the table and looked at me. Priscilla spoke first, “Is there anything else, my lord?” and Christina shot a glance her way. “Uh, I’m sorry but I am in a hurry this morning. I’ll be only a moment more, if you please.” And Christina understood, turned and nudged Priscilla to the kitchen. They walked off.
I finished my breakfast thinking surely these folks know better how to cook. I wiped my mouth with the napkin pushed back and stood. Priscilla immediately poked her head around the corner and Christina stepped around behind her both looking my way. I stood up and placed the napkin over my left arm, grabbed the mug of coffee in my right hand and the honey in my left, and stepped to the bar. I placed them all at the end of the bar and I called out, “Ladies, thank you for the breakfast. I shall want another mug of coffee when I come back down the stairs so I thought I would leave these things right here. Is there a lad about that could help me in my room?” Priscilla started to speak but the older woman, who I came to suspect was her mother, placed her arm on Priscilla’s forearm and replied, “We'll have someone come up presently, my lord.” Priscilla snapped her head around to look at her and then bowed her head. She turned and went back to the kitchen. Christina called for Tony, and stepped toward the table to clear it. I finished the last swallow of coffee. Replaced the mug and headed back up the stairs.
Reaching the top, I again looked carefully at the hallway [perception] and didn’t see anything out of place. I walked to my room door and opened it very slowly. I saw the string didn’t show anyone had entered my room. I pushed the door open and walked in. I grabbed the things I needed and placed them on the bed. I then grabbed the things I didn’t need and folded them and placed them in a neat stack on the seat of the chair. I reached down and lifted my armor. I left the faulds and only placed the cuirass over my torso. I had to leave it hang loose until I could get some help. I picked up my saddle bags and checked their contents, packing a few things I wished to have with me today. I heard steps approaching and turned to the open door to see Tony come around the corner.
“Good morning, sir,” he said, “I understand you asked to see me?” “Yes, I need a hand securing my armor. If you could please”, and I turned to expose the buckles and hooks. Tony stepped over and began fastening the hooks as I held my arm up. He asked, “Did you like your room, sir?” I replied, “Yes, the room is fine. I would like to have a bench or something set against that wall there, if you have one.” And he said, “Yes sir, I will have one brought up here presently.” And I said, “Oh, there is no real hurry. I expect to be gone most of the day, but I do expect to return this evening. And I will be ready to play.” I smiled at him. He fastened the buckles. I continued, “I would like this bit of laundry done today. Please thank the woman that prepared my laundry last evening. Since I will be gone, I ask that you will secure my room again while I am gone.” He responded, “Yes sir. I will have my wife attend to your laundry. It will be here when you return, and the bench will be brought up, sir.”
“Yes, thank you.” I said. “I need to ask you, the maid that has been helping, she collected my laundry last evening and delivered my coffee this morning and fetched the firewood.” Tony responded with a little edge in his voice, “Yes sir.” “Is she you daughter?” I asked. “Yes she is.” He replied. And I continued, “And the older woman, Christina, she is your wife?” He answered, “Yes sir.” I paused, “I thought so. I believe your daughter is quite taken with me. I guess my novelty as a visitor is interesting to her. You know as a half-elf I usually get a reaction of unusual friendship or unusual resentment whenever I have been away from my home in Tahgrum.” He had finished with the buckles and I turned to face him and continued, “I expect you will be relieved to hear I am strictly forbidden to indulge in casual relationships. This is a strict duty for my station as a representative of the Emperor. The service can not abide personal entanglements compromising my duties as I travel. I am at liberty to pursue a real courtship but there are factors to be considered there also. I tell you this for two reasons. First, I suspect your wife, at least, is worried for your daughter and me, and I want you to know I will not compromise your daughter’s dignity. Second, I hope you are able to convey this gently to your daughter so she is able to pursue the, uh, other interests she has. OK.” And Tony let out a breath of air. “I am very glad to hear this because my wife told me she was very worried. Now that I know the situation I will speak to my daughter. Why even my wife said she felt like she was under a spell talking to you. You bards are all like that you know. I wonder if it is just natural or if you are trained to play your magic over the women.” I snorted a small laugh and I said, “They did teach us a few things but I have always had a special power with women. I was surprised to see it worked outside my home in Tahgrum. But I will tell you one thing, if you can keep it a secret. You automatically jump up one notch of interest if you learn a woman’s name and use it. Don’t make a big production of it, but try speaking to women in this town and remember to call them by their name and see if they don’t seem to brighten up just a bit when they see you. And please don’t tell everyone you know about this. Try it when talking to your wife and even she will brighten up a little.” I concluded, “I need to get downstairs. If you would please excuse me.” And he said, “Yes, sir.” And he stepped out the door and down the hall.
I turned back to the mirror and checked myself over once more. I grabbed my rapier and slung it over my shoulder. I grabbed my saddlebags and my lute and walked out into the hall. I walked out the door and to the head of the stair. I placed my lute and saddle bags against the wall. I looked down the hallway [perception] and walked back to my room. I reached in and pulled the door closed setting the string because of my habit, and looked down the hall from this end [perception] and noted nothing out of the ordinary. I walked back and picked up the saddle bags and lute, and then descended the stairs. As I came down I saw Christina standing near my coffee mug at the end of the bar. She smiled at me and I smiled back. I thanked her for having my coffee ready and took a small sip. After confirming it had not been sweetened for me, I lifted the stick from the pot of honey and swirled it in my coffee. I finished my coffee looking around the room and was a little uneasy that Christina never stopped staring at me. I finished my mug, placed it on the counter, picked up the napkin and wiped my mouth, replaced it and nodded to her before turning to leave. I picked up my lute and put my hat on my head and strode through the door.
Outside, the light was bright but the air was still cool. I walked down the street and crossed to pass nearer the mansion. I stepped up on the porch and said “Hello” to the guards. I stepped down and over to the stable to greet Ben. He was busy inside raking a stall and said “Hello”, as I came into view. I told him I might be back for my horse in a moment, but if not I asked him to make sure he got a walk today and fed. Ben said, “Absolutely, sir, you can count on it.” And I stepped out into the street and looked toward the shrine. There were two clerics standing there talking with one another by two carts. I walked up with a smile and greeted them, “Hello friends. You were there at dinner last night, were you not?”
They turned their attention to me, and the one on my right spoke first, “Good day, Bene-Timber, is it?” I nodded and extended my hand to him, “Yes sir. But you have me at a disadvantage. You are?” He took hold of my hand and said, “Of course, I am Jacob and this is Joseph.” And Joseph extended his hand and we clasped firmly. I said, “Glad to make your acquaintance.” He replied, “And I yours, sir.” I asked, “Will we be headed to Pine Mill presently?” Jacob said, “Well I am headed the other way. We have a habit of visiting the hamlets around Stonebridge and the other two clerics have departed.” I turned back to Joseph, “So when will we be leaving?” He replied, “As soon as you’re ready. It not very far, just a few hours walk.” I looked at the carts. They were two wheeled with space for two men to sit up front. They had solid wheels, no spokes, and tall sides. “Which is ours?” I asked. “This one here. And Ham is our friend today doing all the work.” I grinned and stepped to the back of the cart. I looked inside and there was quite a bit of cargo there and a mace. I asked, “There is a mace back here, for who?” “Oh, it’s mine”, said Joseph. “We sometimes get a visit from bandits so we must be ready in that event. They would steal from their mothers if they even knew who they were.” “Well how about I just set my saddle bags right here.” And I threw them up over the side of the cart so one hung over each side.
Jacob said, “I know you may think this odd, but I would like to see your credentials folder if I may?” I looked over at him because I did think it was odd after the dinner last night, but out of congeniality I reached into one of the bags and produced my folder and handed it to him. I watched and they opened it and turned the page and seeing nothing else they returned the folder to me. I thanked them for the folder and turned to replace it in my bag. As I reached up I said, “Could I see your folders, please?” They turned to each other and shrugged. Jacob turned and said, “My folder and I believe Joseph’s also is inside in our cells. If you would care to wait?” I replied, “No, that’s not necessary. I may wish to see them some other time, though. So why did you want to see my folder then? You know very well after dinner that I am certified.” “Well we wanted to see how far you had travelled in the service before coming to visit us. You see, most new messengers, ah emissaries, are younger bards. They display an awkwardness due to their youth. They are not so mindful of their duties and lessons as you seem to be, but we heard the messenger coming was new. You are much older than we expected. We wanted to see if the rumors were true.” “Oh, well I should take that as some measure of a compliment then I suppose. Well, maybe they didn’t tell you I am a half-elf, which you can easily see for yourselves. Since I will live many more years, we tend to stay at home longer even when we decide to strike out as adventurers in the world. Yes, I am as new as you have been told. I have been in the service a whole week. But I take my lessons and my profession very seriously so I hope to make a good impression and serve the Emperor well.”
Joseph said, “Well, let’s get started.” And I shook Jacob’s hand and waved as he turned his cart toward the road that led east. We turned the opposite way that would take us by the barracks. We began walking and Ham followed us. I asked if Joseph would be bothered if I played while we walked and he said, “No, not at all, I believe I would be enriched to hear you play.” I pulled my lute around and played some upbeat festival songs. We walked out of town passing a small gatehouse under construction. There were four guards on duty and Joseph waved to them and I nodded as I played.
After we were beyond their hearing I stopped playing and asked Joseph, “The fellow who was in charge at the bridge when I entered town yesterday, who is he?” Joseph replied, “Oh Trent, a sergeant, he’s not a bad fellow but he is a nervous one by nature. Why do you ask?” I replied, “Yes, he was a very nervous fellow. I did my dead level best to set his mind at ease, short of casting a spell over him, and then he would have possibly have become belligerent if it didn’t work and resentful later if it did, so there was no need in taking that route. Has he lived here long?” “Oh, yes, he’s lived here his whole life. His family runs a farm over to the east a bit. Why?” I responded, “I don’t know. I thought maybe this was the first time he had been separated from his family and posted to another province or something. You know that is a common practice in the ranks.” Joseph said, “Yes, I have heard that, but not so common around here. In these remote areas they often promote fellows to keep locals in the ranks because they are familiar with the dangers we face. These fellows are much more like a militia than an army even though there is no real distinction officially.” And I replied, “I see.” And with that I played some more.
After a spell I stopped again and said, “Something isn’t right. Do you sense anything different?” [perception] Joseph stopped and so did Ham, “No I don’t see anything.” I said, “Better fish out your mace, something is going to happen.” And with that, I removed my lute, pulled my gloves from my belt and pulled them on, and drew my rapier. I was scanning the wood line off to our right and detected some movement. Joseph came around with his mace in hand and looked off in the direction I was looking. “Are you ready?” I asked. “Yes, but I don’t see anything.” He replied. And I said, “Well they are coming and I figure there are eight of them. Can we handle eight?” He responded, “If they don’t have archers we should. I might take five or six with a spell if they get close enough.” And from the wood line they came suddenly spread out in a line from our left to our right. They were an almost comical bunch of mismatched misfits. They were carrying any sort of weapon they could find, two of them were bringing heavy branches they were going to use as clubs. One fellow had leather armor that didn’t fit him well and another had padded armor, awfully stained as if he never thought to wash it. The others were mostly unarmored, although some had bracers. I couldn’t see any archers so that made me feel better. I asked Joseph in a whisper, “How far away can you use your spell?” He said “About fifty feet or so.” And I called out to them, “Well that’s far enough men. What’s your business?”
The leader in leather armor stopped and the others stopped with him. “My business? Haw, haw, What’s my business. Why we’re teamsters, can’t you see? We’re here to help carry your cargo for you, Poff!” I cast Vicious Mockery and replied, “Carry our cargo you say? I hope better than you carry your liquor judging by the stains on your armor.” And I drew my dagger in my off hand. “You had best be off before you get hurt. Go play with yourselves somewhere else. We have no time for the likes of you.” And the leader was enraged and said, “Just take them, boys.” And this is what I wanted, a direct assault with all of them coming from one side. Joseph was on the ball and he cast Burning Hands taking all the middle six of them full and they recoiled, some falling on the ground as they should and others just running in some random direction. I raised my rapier and met the fellow on our left and Joseph met the fellow on our extreme right with his mace. Against unarmored foes we both drove our first attack home and they were mortally wounded kneeling or laying on the ground. I took a second strike on my opponent with my dagger and opened his neck for the buzzards. I turned and faced the next nearest bandit and took a stance ready for his advance. Joseph knelt by his victim and checked and found him already dead and stood up taking a step to his left to bring him closer to me.
The bandits had recovered, well the four not already dead, for the fire had taken two others. I figured they were about done but with desperate men you always have to wonder. The leader seemed to have the most fight left in him. I figured if he were taken out then we’d be done with this lot so I attempted to intimidate the others. I ordered Joseph to cover my left and I stepped forward at them and Joseph passed behind me and came up on my left. I was coming steadily at the leader and he could see it clearly. I cast Vicious Mockery again and said, “A Poff, remember, you better finish it hear or you’ll always be the fearsome bandit leader remembered only for losing his band of eight to a Poff!” And his face was a mixture of fear and rage. His men were moving back away allowing him to contend with me himself. He glanced to his right and to his left and called out, “What are you men doing? We have them outnumbered! C’mon!” And with that I lunged and caught him deep in his left arm. As he swung his right hand holding his sword over to the wound, I lunged with the dagger in my left hand burying it to the cross piece just under his ribs in his right side. He immediately collapsed and I pulled my dagger from him quickly resuming my ready stance and faced the next closest man.
They started backing away. Joseph called out, “Wait men, you may die of your wounds. If you throw down your weapons and surrender, I can heal your wounds.” They only continued to step away. One answered, “And we’ll be tried and hung on the morrow. We’ll take our chances and we’ll meet you again someday.” And they moved more quickly back to the wood and disappeared.
I turned and looked at Joseph. “Lizards Teeth!” I exclaimed. “Look at me! My shirt! My Armor! My pants! Even my boots! All ruined!” Joseph looked at me and held up one hand, “Not to worry my friend. We are alive, unhurt. These poor beggars burned and stabbed to death. Those fellows running off into the wood will likely be dead of their wounds in a week or infection in a month. Here, come over here to the cart. Let me clean you up.” I threw my rapier and dagger into the dirt point first and followed him to the back of the cart.
He fished out a waterskin and some cloth he would use for rags. He said, let me help you with your armor. We removed my leather armor, which except for the blood was otherwise in prefect shape. I pulled my bloody shirt off and he tore the arms off and threw them in the cart. He looked me in the eye. “There are families in the province that would gladly accept that fabric even if it had some permanent blood stains so please keep your perspective.” I collected myself and said, “I’m sorry. I should know better. I am not to let my raw feelings come to the surface like that. It was an important lesson. I hope Andante doesn’t hear …” He cut me off there, “Oh, trust me, Andante will not have the least ill feelings toward you over that. I hope you speak to him about this and remember to share every detail. He is a great man that will play an important role in the Empire someday if he doesn’t get himself killed. He will teach you what you should learn from it.”