Catlorian V: Lords of Sharlend

By R.L. Pool

The city and Realm of Shedran upon the small continent of Sharlend was now free of the tyranny of a usurper. Prince Jason Shedran and Illycia DeLonge must travel to each of the great realms upon that continent to see that safety is assured and that alliances can be made to keep it that way. With the aid of Will Butler and Bobby Jackson, two soldiers who came from Thom DeLonge’s world, Jason and Illycia must move carefully.

To think that Banshe'e and his lieutenants would only care about the one city, no matter how extensive a realm it was, was foolish. They would have to stand firm with each realm to ensure that evil had no foothold. To do otherwise would be to invite disaster and chaos back into the lives of those they vowed to protect. What they find is worse than they could have imagined. Thom DeLonge, with his trusted men and the help of Nethan DeBurge, must see that the usurper of Shedran has no way to claim the crown of Catlorian. Yet they also must see that the ten young girls, those who volunteered to accompany the rotund pedophile to keep the younger girls from his bed, were somehow freed as well from a life of slavery in Seaborne.

The game was still in its early stages. Each set of pieces Lord Banshe'e moved into play were falling quietly to the might of the valorous few, yet his endgame was still hidden. All these could do was stand ready, move assertively and hope that what evil was planned could be thwarted.

• Language: English
• Publisher: LifeRich Publishing
• Release date: Apr 26, 2019
• ISBN: 9781489721822

R.L. Pool

R.L. Pool served in the US Army and traveled to several continents as a function of that service. After his retirement in 1988, he began work as a Metrology Technician for a branch of the National Institute of Standards Technology. He is a father and grandfather and currently lives in Leakey, Texas. This is the fifth book in the “Catlorian” series. Katherine L. Lewis is the niece of the author. Visit her website at: https://www.deviantart.com/katsraven.

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Copyright © 2019 R.L. Pool.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

LifeRich Publishing is a registered trademark of The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc.

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Cover art provided by Katherine L. Lewis (https://www.katsraven.deviantart.com)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-2181-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-2183-9 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-2182-2 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2019935329

LifeRich Publishing rev. date: 2/25/2019

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Epilogue

Prologue

So… said the ancient sage as he checked his notes, "Through subtle, as well as not so subtle suggestions, you sent a young amnesiac and a barbarian to Catlorian, both of whom were targeted by this Lord Banshe’e. Then you suggested, again subtly, that a young knight travel there as well, he too targeted. Along the way, a Huntsmaster is prompted to join them while not realizing the gravity of the situation as well as two clerics, one a Mage. All are joined in Catlorian for the purpose of… what? Some vague artifacts that might be located in a far off Keep?

"Then, if that weren’t enough, you… suggest to a Lord Commander the necessity of traveling to Catlorian to meet with this… let’s see… Forimer to travel with yet another Huntsmaster ranger, a Cheal, a mercenary and a daku… At Maxim Anteroe’s frown, the old sage amended, … half elf to procure, retrieve, contain or otherwise remove from access yet more artifacts that Banshe’e would very much like to have for some reason. They, in turn, release a… weapon, if you will, secreted against this very situation.

"Then, though you might have foreknowledge of the event, the Royal family of Catlorian is murdered in their beds, yet the children are spirited away, by you, to another plane. Another group is sent with the express purpose of punishing the one responsible, without knowledge that this is none other than the powerful Mage War sorcerer, Lord Alzon Banshe’e! Your manipulations are all over these, Maxim." said Terillion as his worried look caused the Archdruid pause.

That may be, Terillion, but I only suggested a course of action that might be fruitful, nothing more. said Maxim Anteroe as he shifted to allow for a more comfortable lap for the great puma’s head. I am restricted as to my role in actively participating in any situation… as I explained before… nor can I use the power I wield to take this Banshe’e out of the equation.

Yet with the fall of Dragon’s Teeth, the blockade of Heartstone, the surreptitious attempt at taking Catlorian… you must have had prior knowledge of some sort and could have…

Not even if I had wanted to, my old friend. replied Maxim sharply. Yes, I had the power to take Banshe’e and imprison him for all time, yet with the restrictions I have been given by the goddesses I serve, as well as those of the Creator himself, I am not allowed. This is my curse, Terillion. I’ve lived billions of years and seen two worlds come into being and had to watch, silently recording every sad, hateful, greedy moment of their imminent rush to destruction.

Yet you had some part in sending that same amnesiac, stated the old sage, "his memory now restored, to take back Dragon’s Teeth and remove the gualu from about the throat of Heartstone, as well as take the threat of X’hel from the overall picture. Not only that, but the children of the murdered ruler of Catlorian somehow shows up on Sharlend to help yet another prince win back his throne and, in so doing, rescued many young girls held there in slavery of the most heinous sort. All the while you have… suggested, prodded or otherwise caused to proceed, that same pair of clerics to return to Radagast’s Keep to surprisingly find part of what the new Guardian is now looking for. This is after, I might add, you suggested to the Dragon Lords that she, the Guardian, should join Red Wolf in his pursuit of his kidnapped wolves."

Anastasia was simply following the trail of evidence to find what should never have been created in the first place, Terillion. said Maxim softly. Those Wormslayer Lances should have been retrieved in total before the end of the Mage War and placed within the Dragon’s Graveyard where none would have access. For Banshe’e to have secreted three away from those pursuing them at the time is a testament to his desire to destroy all that is good on Ta’el!

Yet you, Maxim, have been warned not to interfere in the inner workings of this world, as you said you were for the last two. If I can see your interference…

I have not interfered with any here, my old friend. Anteroe interrupted sternly. "I have but suggested a mode of action that might make a difference, no more. It is no more than I was allowed to do as I watched two other worlds come to dust at the hands of the Creator’s blessed.

They were given freely of the bounty, yet they desired to own that freely given and fought one another for the privilege. Greed, avarice, bias, hatred… all were used by those of power to cause the inhabitants to fall upon each other in ever increasing levels of warfare until, finally, the perfect balance of the Creator’s hand was thwarted. If I have erred in my pursuit of balance here, it is because of what I have seen previously and I wish not to see again. I would like to believe that, given the right information… that free of lies and hatred… and motivation, humanity would thrive until the planet itself finally ends in a peaceful disintegration. By that time, the Creator will have touched yet another world and these could then be taken there and safely given the goal of maintaining it.

Yes, but is that a reasonable goal, Maxim? asked the old sage softly. I myself have seen the greed in men, the hatred they have one for the other, the desire for power and the evil that those things bring. Is that a realistic desire?

Why not? I have watched the Cheal, those beings of nature that have never strayed from the Creator’s duty. When confronted here, they left rather than battle for ‘possession’ of what was given freely. I watched them when they were taken from here and placed upon another world where they were hunted almost to extinction. They are here again and I can see that there are some who seem to understand the role placed before all of humanity by seeing through the eyes of these Cheal. I have hope, Terillion.

But is that enough? asked the old sage as he shifted yet again to somehow find a comfortable spot as he sat before this immortal Archdruid.

I can see in the actions of these few the desires to free all and to protect all without greed, rancor or malice. said Maxim as he looked down at his hands. "I cannot place my desires above their choices for to do so would not only remove their freedom of action, but would be a blatant act of insubordination to those who have warned me not to interfere. If that were ever to happen, I would cease to exist and I would not be here to, as you say, suggest, prod or otherwise cause to proceed. I am restricted in what I can do, Terillion.

However…

Chapter 1

T he young girls knelt in a line in the darkness, their faces peaceful and calm. The man stepped up behind them and, one at a time, slit their throats. Their faces never changed, though the tears rolled from their eyes as the blood spilled from the ragged cuts to stain their white dressing gowns. The watcher could not move but stood in horror as the man walked toward her with a leering grin.

I told you I would kill them all, have my way with you and then slice your throat, little bitch. he said softly as he approached.

He began to bleed from his eyes and blood poured from his mouth.

She began to scream.

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Thom DeLonge turned from looking out over the balcony at the quiet city of Shedran beyond the walls of the palace. The three moons of Ta’el had risen to their zenith and bathed the city in soft white light. There were few lights about the darkened city and the patrols walking the streets with lanterns could be seen checking for the security Commander Cedric Hollend had promised the citizens just yesterday in his posting on the numerous City Boards.

The scream put him into motion. He ran back to the arcade on the second floor and looked up at the third level in time to see Jason headed for the girl’s dormitory. Then he saw the three little figures running up from the first floor.

Alice. he said softly with a sad shake of his head.

With a sigh he ran toward the stairs.

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Wake up, Alice! Please wake up!

Illycia sat bolt upright in the small bed and looked around into the concerned young faces of the girls all wrapped in their blankets and shivering about her. She shook as the tears rolled down her cheeks and the cold sweat made her skin colder in the chill of the large room. She glanced at the door as Chelsea dragged Jason through, his offhand trying desperately to hold his robe closed about his semi-naked body. Illycia looked into Lily’s frightened eyes as the girl sat on the edge of the bed holding her hand.

It’s okay, Alice. Lily said softly as she drew the hand she held to her chest and looked into the green, fear-filled eyes. We all have nightmares. We’re here for you, m’lady.

Jason sat down on the other side of the bed and reached a tentative hand to her cheek.

Are you alright, Illy? he asked, his face filled with concern.

I’m fine, Jason. Really. she replied as she took his hand in her shaking one and held it gently. Then, with a little frown, she added, You aren’t supposed to see me before the wedding, sir.

That’s my fault!’ said little Chelsea excitedly as she leaned on the bed and looked at her new big sister with frightened eyes. When ya started screamin’ I run an’ brung Jason fast as I could!"

Besides, stated Jason, "you are not fine! This is the third nightmare in as many days! I wish…"

I know, Jason, but this is something I will have to deal with. It’s as if I know in my mind that it is but a dream, but I can’t seem to convince myself of it. I now know why Tommy would walk the house and slip quietly into the backyard to sit alone late at night. He was trying to stave off the nightmares that haunt him.

Well, my love, I will not try and tell you that it will become easier, for that would be a lie. replied the Prince of Shedran softly. All I can suggest is that when I look into the faces of the children we saved at the Keep and these fine ladies about you, my demons are well worth the price. The only comfort I can bring, Illy, is that soon I will be beside you and will be there to hold you when the demons of the night come.

I know that, Jason, but I will be fine now. Really. Then with a grin she added, If we all don’t get some sleep, we will all look terrible for tomorrow!

I’m gonna sleep with Alice tanight, Jason. said Chelsea as she climbed into the bed next to Illycia. Don’t you worry none! I’m gonna hold ‘er all night if I gotta!

Thanks, sis. said the princess with a little smile. It’s kinda cold in here as it is. Maybe we could cuddle and get warm.

"Why is it so cold in here? asked the prince softly as he glanced at the cold hearth. Why are there no coals banked in the hearth?"

We weren’t allowed a fire here, Jason. replied Lily softly. "Luther said we didn’t need one because he wanted his… girls to keep him warm at night and that we would crave that after sleeping in the cold without him."

That ends tonight! he said sharply as he rose and looked about for some wood and found none. He glanced at the door when he felt eyes watching and saw the gerk there.

Me heared scream an’ we come up for see what! said the shaken little gualu with the tuft of hair above his brow.

Just a bad dream, boys. said Jason with a gentle smile. Then he asked, Moe, do you know where they keep the wood piled out back?

The little gualu came into the room a step and, with his little head bowed, shifted his bare clawed feet on the cold stone.

Ma’ter say we not s’pose ta bodder him’s wood, Lord. Moe said in a little voice.

Is your room as cold as this one, my friends?

Maybe, but dat okay, Lord. replied the little gualu in a tiny voice. We room down inna cat’com where we s’pose ta stay. We wraps up tight in b’anket and huddle tagedder onna floor. We okay.

On the floor? Jason asked with a frown. There are no beds in your room?

No, Lord, but dat okay. We gerk. We doesn’ needs bed.

Well, my little friends, that too ends tonight! he said angrily. He walked to the door and, taking a small clawed hand in each of his, walked away with two of the little gualu with the third following closely. He went to the door of the farthest bedroom along the third level arcade and, opening the door said, Here is your new room, my friends! There are beds and a hearth and blankets to keep you warm as well as a bath for your comfort. If you will, go down to the woodbin in the garden and bring enough wood to sustain the girls and you for the night and to rekindle a nice fire in the morning. Tomorrow, see that the woodbins in all occupied rooms in this place are filled to capacity. I will not see my new friends uncomfortable anymore nor will our charges freeze while we are nice and warm!

Dis be our room? asked Larry softly as he looked into the room by the dim light of the moons of Ta’el seeping through the cracks in the shutters. We neber hab room like dis afore. Dis really…

This is your room, boys. repeated the prince as he knelt next to them and looked into each set of dark eyes. It’s about time you were treated as the friends you’ve always been to the girls. Now he added as he stood up and looked down at them, how about that wood?

As the three little gualu ran quickly for the stairs with grins on their little misshapen faces, Jason smiled and walked back to the large room that housed the girls and the love of his life. He nodded at Thom as that one stopped short of the large bedroom and looked askance.

Jason pantomimed drinking something and Thom nodded. As Thom went back down the stairway toward the kitchen, Jason walked quickly to Illycia’s temporary bed in the large dormitory and sat on the edge while he pulled the thin blanket up around both her and Chelsea.

Our little friends will be bringing wood up momentarily, ladies. he said as he glanced about at the girls still kneeling on the cold floor. Tomorrow we will see that blankets and rugs are found to make this room as warm and cheery as is possible. As wards of the House Shedran, you will be cared for as befits a princess, yet I will not allow you to become spoiled! He grinned into the young girl’s faces and received the shivering grins he hoped he’d see. Now everyone back into bed. When our little friends return, I will start a small fire in the hearth here and will stay until it is safely warming your room. As the grinning girls all padded back to their beds, Jason said, Lily, you are the eldest here, yes?

Yes, Jason. she answered softly. I’m sixteen, almost seventeen. Fiona, Gretchen and I tried to take care of the others as much as possible, even… even while Luther…

Fiona? he asked with a frown.

Fiona Delmish, Jason. Lily replied sadly. "She was the eldest of us and, when Luther thought to take some of the younger girls with him to Seaborne, it was she who suggested that he take the older girls. When he questioned her, she told him that he could get a better price for a… a seasoned companion in Seaborne since he would probably not want to be burdened as he took the throne of Catlorian. The tears ran down her cheeks as she continued, The ten other older girls each volunteered all the while smiling and slinking up to him. The last I saw of Fiona, she glanced back with a sad smile, nodded at the little ones and then to me. I think she wanted to be certain there was someone here for them."

I understand, Lily. he said sadly. Then, as he looked into her hazel eyes softly, he continued, "Then, in Fiona’s stead, I am appointing you the official ‘Big Sister’ for everyone here for now and for whoever is left after we find the families of the girls who have them. I will answer to you if they need something and don’t have it. Will you accept the position?"

What am I supposed to do, Prince Jason? she asked with a little frown as she wiped at her face with the dressing gown and shivered with the cold.

Well, first off, he said as he looked from Illycia’s grinning face to the little dark haired teenager, you will need to see that our charges, as well as yourself, have warm, clean clothing to wear and that they have chores assigned that they are responsible for. I want them and you to feel that this is your home for however long you need it, Lily, and the best way is for them to be responsible for some of it. Do you agree?

I do! she replied with a mild touch of excitement. Some of the girls have said something about wanting to work in the orchard and maybe get the garden ready for spring. Mister Fennel said he’d show us how to work the ground to make it produce properly and will help us when we ask. The gerk have already said they’d help, but what if some of the girls don’t want to help? What if they are too scared or…

That is their choice, Lily, and I know that some will want to… maybe hide themselves away considering the treatment they and you have had to endure. said Jason softly. Just care for them as you’ve cared for Illy and these little ones here and you will be fine. Now, if you have need to travel into town, I want you to promise me that you will take some of the Guard with you. I don’t want you walking about without protection.

When it warms up a bit, added Illycia, we are going to start with a training regimen to give all of you the skills to protect yourselves as well.

You mean the kind you used on… Then, as Illycia turned pale, Lily grabbed her hand again, brought it to her cheek and added quickly, I’m so sorry, Alice! I didn’t mean…

It’s alright, Lily, and yes, those skills will be offered as well. Illycia replied softly as she stroked that sad face. Now, I see that our little friends have arrived. You need to get to bed, young lady! I will need you fresh as a daisy tomorrow! Lily smiled and crawled into her bed and pulled the thin blanket about her.

Two of the gerk came through the door with a large load of small logs in their arms and the third continued down the arcade to their new room with more. Jason joined the two at the hearth and, as he set the kindling and logs in place, Illycia watched the quiet, light hearted banter between these little gualu and the man she loved… the man she would marry tomorrow afternoon.

Soon, the hearth was giving off a pleasant warmth and the Prince of Shedran ushered the smiling gualu out of the door and down toward their new room. He crossed back to Illycia’s bed and, tucking the blanket about the little sleeping Chelsea, leaned down and kissed Illycia softly.

See you tomorrow, my love. he whispered, walked out of their room and closed the door gently behind him.

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Thom got up and poured a cup of Kaff from the pot warming on the edge of the large wood burning stove in the kitchen when Jason walked in holding his robe tight about him.

How’s she doin’, Jason? Thom asked as he waved the prince to a chair at the table where his half cup of Kaff waited. Nightmares again?

Jason nodded as he sat and took the cup from his friend from another world.

I don’t know what to do, Tom. If I could make her forget…

That’s not an option, my friend. Thom interrupted as he sat and picked up his cup. This was one of the many things I worried about when I found out who we were and where we were goin’. I knew what this world was like and what could be the consequences of coming here. Alice has always been a… a very gentle soul and has always helped when my demons rose to challenge me. Now I kinda feel helpless.

True of us both. replied the blonde prince softly. We’ve seen far too much death and dying for one lifetime, Tom. She has never had to deal with the aftermath as have we. She is strong but I wish… His voice trailed off and he sipped from his hot cup. After a moment, he glanced up at the Prince of Catlorian and asked, You can’t sleep either, can you?

Not so much. he responded. It’s not the nightmares as much as the worry about who might be hurt or killed following me when I have to do what needs doin’. How many more of our friends and loved ones will have to die before people will learn to live together peacefully, Jason? How many funerals are we gonna have to preside over?

These are things we have no control over, my friend. said Jason softly. We can only hope that whatever we plan is as foolproof as possible and our friends and followers live through it. My father always said that to rule, one must have a strong back, a strong will and a strong stomach. Only with those will we make the right choices that will benefit the most. People look to us for answers and choices, Tom. I never wanted this but it seems that I have little choice left that is my own.

I suppose you could take Alice and move back down to the Keep or maybe…

And leave these people to fend for themselves? And what about the people who still depend on me at the Keep, village and our settlement, Tom? Jason sipped from his cup again and shook his head. No, I can’t turn my back on these anymore than I could ever leave your sister. Though I want desperately to keep her safe from all of the monsters that exist outside of this palace, I know she will not leave the girls, the people or even our little gualu to see after themselves during this time of turmoil. It is not who she is.

Then I guess we’re kinda stuck then. said Thom with a grin. We gotta do what we were trained to do, Jason. We were both groomed for this, though I don’t really remember it happening. My Dad would sit and discuss things with me, subtly bringing out answers from my thoughts all the while making it seem like he was just discussing the weather. He was a sneaky old bastard! Jason glanced at the grin and had to grin himself. Thom continued, We both had fathers who, for whatever reason, thought it important to teach us to use our minds and training to see beyond our own wants and needs and look to others first. That’s the role we were raised to fill, Jason, and before you say crap like, ‘but I’m only the second son’, just remember that your Dad had to look out for the people first. He mighta known that your brother might not be too good for the city or might get himself killed and made sure that he had a back-up plan in place.

Thank you for relegating me to ‘second choice’, my friend. said Jason with a grin.

Hey, buddy, replied Thom with a matching grin, it is what it is!

Then there is something else, Thom. said Jason as he looked into those blue eyes with a sigh. Lily told me that ten of the girls… the older girls… were taken with Luther to Seaborne. She said they volunteered to go and be sold to keep the younger girls from that fate. If there is any way…

I’ll look into it, Jason. replied the dark haired prince softly but with a frown. If there is any way to free ‘em, we will get ‘em back here to you for their safety. You have my word on that.

Thank you, Tom. Lily has been worried about that for some time now, that much I can see. I can tell her now that good men will be seeking her friends and that may give her a bit of peace. Jason stood and pulled his robe closer about him as he added, Now, it’s late. I’m going to see if I can get some sleep. You?

In a little while. replied the dark haired soldier as he stood, touched Jason’s shoulder and started toward the great doors. I think I’ll go out to the barracks and see if Helen’s ladies have any food out there for the next guard shift… or maybe just some of her good Kaff. Then I’ll try to get some sleep. Tomorrow is gonna be a big day, brother-in-law!

I’ll see you in the morning, Tom. said the prince to the soldier’s back. He shook his head and started for the stairs.

Thom opened the doors and grinned at the two guards standing just outside. They returned the grin and nodded.

You guys need any Kaff? he asked as he slapped one on the shoulder. I’m goin’ down to the kitchen for some and I’ll bring some back if you want.

No, m’lord. replied that one with a wave of his hand. Our shift is about up and we’ll be in there in about an hour anyway. Then, after a little food, we’re going to bed. Tomorrow is going to be a busy one for us.

I think you might be right. Thom chuckled as he continued toward the small open gate to the barracks courtyard.

Several of the guards from the barracks were just arriving for their evening meal prior to taking their shift. They all had grins and the new blue tabard with the shield of Shedran on the front. Thom liked the look and the way it seemed to give each man an identity and a purpose. Uniforms seem to do that for a warrior no matter what world they are from.

Jason had asked Cedric to ask each man what armor best suited their talents and the Captain of the City Guard had complied. Each man was issued new chain mail jerkins and the tabard. They suggested leather pants for their legs as they all needed to be able to move to do their jobs. Though the pants were not yet ready, the leather waiting while Bobby and Angie worked out the details for venting the tannery, the mail was racked within the large armory down in the catacombs and each of the over four hundred former mercenaries had been fitted with it. The leather tabards were there as well and each was fitted to allow for free movement of the man wearing it, the leather just another layer of protection.

Thom smelled the fresh brewed Kaff from the Dining Hall and followed some of the men inside. He walked through the clean dining area toward the cafeteria style setup, his eyes glancing from one smiling face to the next. He saw Jonny with several others and, after taking a piece of fresh bread and wrapping it about a slice of succulent meat, took a big mug of the aromatic Kaff back to the big captain’s table.

Big change ain’t it? asked Jonny as he watched the Prince of Catlorian sit and sip at his hot cup with a grin. "Ol’ Ollie been comin’ ‘round lookin’ in on us an’ deliverin’ food stuff fer the ladies. They been bakin’ bread an’ cookin’ fresh veg’ables fer the boys an’ ever’body’s gettin’ ‘nuff food… good food now!"

How’re the new uniforms working out?

Uniforms? asked Jonny with a slight frown. Then, with a grin, he replied, Oh! The tabards? Them guys like ‘em! We got the mail jist yestiday an’ the guys been wearin’ it under the leather all day. Seems ta make ‘em kinda proud they belong ta somethin’ good like this. Tomlin told me they was workin’ on a design fer a new underpaddin’ ta issue ta each man ta keep ‘em warm durin’ the winter too. He says they’re lookin’ ta get somma the seamstresses in the city ta come down to the mill an’ he was gonna find ‘em a place ta work. Says he an’ his new crew gonna make sure we’re comfer’ble an’ happy. Says it be in his best interest.

Jason said he was working on a budget of sorts to pay for everything you guys need, set a salary and to promote good feelings around the city. said Thom around a bite of the meat sandwich. He has hope that the city will soon feel safer with you guys walkin’ around out there.

It’ll take some time, Tom, but I’m hopin’ that the men will find their way back to what they was s’pose ta be ‘fore Luther. We gotta lotta work ta do on that but we all know it’s a good thang. Jonny took a long drink from his cup and sighed. My guys, the House Guard, are just bustin’ with pride with their new… uniforms. The tabards are just a little dif’ernt with the Shield of Shedran just over the heart an’ the new rankin’ system in place. The big ex-mercenary opened his cloak and showed the Shield and the two silver bars over it. This tells ever’body I’m the Captain of the House Guard. The City Guard got a bigger Shield in the middle and the lieutenants an’ captains got silver chevrons over ‘em. Cedric done got misty eyed when the boys tol’ ‘im they wanted ‘im ta be their Commander, seein’ as how they broke up inta three comp’nies with a captain fer each. He’s sportin’ a gold chevron over his Shield an’ he looks awful pleased with hisself!

How’s the training going? asked Thom as he grinned back into the smiling face.

The City Guard is on a one week on, two week off schedule that allows fer each comp’ny ta rest an’ train with the rangers. Between trainin’ the other fellas who wanna be rangers to go out an’ serve the people outside an’ when they starts trainin’ us an’ the City Guard, them rangers ain’t gonna have much time ta fix up the warehouse Jason give ‘em. The new rangers-in-trainin’ been workin’ hard ta help though an’ I figger it’ll happen sooner’n later. Then, with a sidelong glance at the dark haired heir to the throne of Catlorian, Jonny added, "Jist wisht we had the time fer ya to teach us what ya know ‘bout fightin’, Tom. You got some moves I ain’t never seen!"

Sorry, my friend. said the prince softly. George and I will be leaving as soon as Jason and my sister are settled. We’re staying until we can make certain the Lord of the Northern Province is willing to come to a trade agreement with the city. Jason wants to try and get Sharlend back to the trust it had when his father was alive and he needs the products from that area to bring the city up from the poverty it has sunk into.

You comin’ back though, right? asked the Captain with a worried look.

You couldn’t keep me away, my friend! replied the soldier with a grin. Jason is marrying my sister and I need to keep an eye on him so he’ll treat her right!

From what I seen o’ her, he better behave or she might jist take care of it fer ya! said the big warrior with a loud laugh. I jist wisht we had more time fer trainin’ with ya though.

You remember the big black fellow that came with us? said Thom as he glanced sidelong at the guard.

Will? Yeah. He’s workin’ down at the mill now with them… security guards I think he calls ‘em. What ‘bout ‘im?

He’s Ranger trained and Special Forces. Thom replied. He is a certified instructor in hand-to-hand combat as well as a specialist in tactics and tactical support. I’m sure if you ask, he will give your guys some pointers.

I don’t know what special force he been workin’ with but if ya say he knows his stuff, we’ll sure look inta it. stated Jonny emphatically.

Understand, he doesn’t mess around. Thom added with a grin. He’s into physical training and discipline. He’ll help but he doesn’t have time for slackers. If your guys wanna learn, he’s the guy who can teach ‘em.

I’ll see ‘im tamorrah an’ see what we kin work out. Jonny said as he sat back and stretched. Right now, I gotta change my Guard an’ get some sleep. Ya comin’?

In a bit, Jonny. replied the soldier as he lifted his almost empty cup and drained it. I’m gonna have one more cup and try to get some sleep.

Then I’ll see ya in th’ mornin’. replied the big guard as he rose and, after placing his plate and cup on the rack for the cleaning crew to wash, he walked away grinning. After stopping at several tables along the way to speak to some of the grinning men there, he walked from the dining hall.

Thom refilled his cup and, after another glance about the hall, sat back down and sipped at the hot brew thoughtfully.

Chapter 2

S he waited until the fat man was snoring peacefully. She left the bed and moved quickly to the bath to wash his stink from her body while tears streamed down her face. She dressed quickly and slipped out of the large room.

The two guards at the door leered at her as she walked quickly back to the room set aside for Luther’s girls and slipped in quietly. As she lifted the coverlet to the cold bed and climbed in, again as quietly as was possible, the girl in the next bed turned toward her with frightened eyes.

How much longer do we have, Fiona? the girl whispered.

Maybe a week, Gretch, no more. whispered the sandy haired girl of nineteen. Luther said something about the powers here are going to grant him a troop of mercenaries to accompany him to Catlorian but it will take time to prepare for that long journey. I don’t think he likes having to ride that long in a carriage, as well as having to eat camp food, but he is looking forward to taking the throne and finding more young girls to bed there. He said something about the slave trade in that city but I couldn’t understand a lot of it. I got him drunk as quickly as possible so he would sleep after… You know.

The other girls are starting to question their choices in this, Fiona. If the truth were known, so am I.

Would you rather have seen the younger girls… the twelve and thirteen year olds… subjected to Luther’s passion? What would they do after Luther was through with them and they found themselves on the auction block? asked Fiona in a stern whisper. They are not like us, Gretch. They haven’t been slaves to this pig as long as we have. At least we know what to expect when it comes time and can maybe use some of our wiles to find our way through to the next owner. Could they?

Probably not but…

We did this to save at least a few of them, my friend. Fiona whispered. We don’t know what is happening to them now with Garland in the palace but at least they will still be alive and with friends who will help them if it comes to that. Don’t doubt yourself. We are much stronger than they are and can withstand more because we are… used to it. You have done right by them and I thank you for it.

Thanks, Fiona. said the younger redhead softly. Thanks for being my friend through this. We won’t let you down when it comes time to…

They both closed their eyes and feigned sleep when the door opened and a guard stuck his head in to check that they were all in bed. He nodded with a frown and closed the door behind him.

Just don’t let them see you cry, Gretch. said the sandy haired girl as she glanced quickly at the door, her hazel eyes betraying her anger.

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Wake up, Miss Alice. said Lily softly as she lightly shook the blonde princess from her sleep.

Alice woke and looked up at the smiling girl with the dark hair. After she ran her free hand through her tangled blonde locks she glanced at the little girl cuddled against her under her other arm. She grinned as Chelsea snuggled a little closer with a sleeping smile. She brushed some of the long blonde hair from the little girl’s face and was rewarded as the blue eyes opened with a soft pouty frown.

Com’on, Cel. said Lily softly. Everybody else has bathed. It’s just you and Alice now.

I’m not looking forward to a cold bath, but… began Illycia as she sat up on the edge of the bed and put her bare feet on the cold floor.

But it’s warm now, Alice! said Lily excitedly. Moe came in early this morning and started a fire in the little hearth in there and the water started heating! It was wonderful! I wanted to spend the whole morning in there but the others thought it would be better if we got you and Cel up and got you ready. Miss Matilda is coming in later this morning for your final fitting and she said she had something special to show us.

Then, Illycia said as she tickled her new little sister into giggling, I guess we’d better be about it!

An hour later the large dining area off of the kitchen was awash in little girls and young ladies. There were giggles, laughs and squeals as the girls picked at the meat and cheese platters and dunked their fresh bread into the cups of cold milk. Illycia sat and grinned at the girl’s antics, soothed at their acceptance of the strange turn of events in their lives.

Just a week ago, these girls were slaves to the most depraved of humanity and now giggled as they ate a healthy breakfast? She shook her head with a grin, sipped at her cup of Kaff and looked over at the women who worked… owned the kitchen. Their smiles could not be washed away.

Jason stepped through the door and all eyes turned toward him.

Good morning, my Lord. they all said in unison.

Jason frowned and put his hands to his hips. He glared from one little face to another until their smiles started to fade.

Okay! he shouted. Who put you up to this! Then he smiled.

The dining hall erupted in girl’s giggles and loud laughter. He crossed to the counter and accepted a cup of the fresh Kaff from the hand of one of the smiling ladies there and moved through the little girls to Illycia’s table. He laid a soft hand to the top of Chelsea’s head and got a grin before he sat.

Good morning, Jason. said Lily as she sat next to the little blonde girl. Mr. Jerrod said that he’d talked to some of the Guard who are from around my village on Catlor and they told him that Lerania wasn’t totally destroyed! They seem to think that there is hope that some of my family may still be alive!

I hope so, Lily. he replied with a smile. I wouldn’t mind having your mature influence on the girls who will be staying but I will be happy if that is true. Just remember, no matter where you finally end up, you will always have a place here with us. Okay?

’Sides, Lily, you’re one of my bestest friends! said Chelsea around a bite of bread.

As you are mine, Cel. replied the girl as she tossed her dark hair and tickled the little girl. As long as I know that some of my family exists, I wouldn’t mind staying? she said soberly as she looked from Illycia to Jason.

That will be your choice, Lily. said Illycia softly as she reached across the table and took the girl’s hand. You are old enough to make many of your own decisions, young lady. We would all be happy to have you here with us, but will understand if you have to leave even for a little while. Just think about it and we will help you no matter what you decide.

Well, replied the girl with a grin as she squeezed Illycia’s hand softly, what we really need to do is get everyone out of here and doing what they need to do to get ready for today! Then, with a stern frown, she added, "And that goes for you too, Miss Alice! You have to work so hard trying on your dress and being pampered. I don’t know how you will bear it!"

Chelsea giggled and rocked back in her chair. Illycia joined her and Lily looked about the table happily, her smile lighting up the room. Then, she stood and faced the other tables.

Ladies, it’s time to get things done! she said loudly as she clapped her hands twice. We need to get our room straightened up and cleaned and then we need to get ready for a wedding! Everyone knows their part so let’s get started!

The girls grinned as they took their platters to the dish rack and filed through the door. Lily smiled after them and turned back to her table.

If you don’t mind, Alice, she said softly, I’d like to take a walk to the harbor to think about things. You don’t mind do you?

Not at all, Lily. replied the princess. Just take a couple of the Guard with you when you go. I really don’t want you going alone.

I will. she replied. Then, with a grinning nod to Jason, she walked out of the kitchen toward the great doors to the hall pulling her blue cloak about her as she went.

She walked out into the courtyard and looked around. Except for the guards at the door, there were no more to be seen. She continued out through the small gate into the barracks compound. Three of the City Guard saw her and as they approached, she stopped and backed up a step.

Sorry, Miss. said one as he stopped and looked back at the palace. You shouldn’t be out here without an escort, Miss. It ain’t safe yet to walk alone, even in here.

I know, sir. she replied as she looked at the men coming and going about her. I’m supposed to take two of the House Guard with me but I couldn’t find any. I just wanted to take a walk down to the harbor.

To clear your head? he asked with a knowing smile and a nod. I know what you mean, Miss. Now, if you’ll wait right here, I’ll run back to the barracks and see if there are any of the guys from the House Guard who can take you. Just wait, okay?

Okay. she said softly and the guard ran toward the barracks, his friends continuing toward the dining hall.

She waited for awhile and, as she became impatient, walked to the wide gate and looked out toward the harbor. She could see the Shedran Standard flying above the Harbor Gate and the gate wide open. She looked back at the barracks and sighed. She glanced back down the road to the harbor and, seeing nothing more than couples and children on the street, decided that it looked safe enough and walked toward the gate two miles away. As the pedestrians started thinning, she pulled her cloak closer and continued through the first gate and the second. As she approached the third, the guards above saw her and watched as she passed below them through the gate to the wharf.

As she walked by the old warehouse there and straight ahead to the long pier that seemed to go a mile into the harbor, several of the mercenaries who were camping there saw her. Three walked toward her with big grins.

Hey, sweetheart! yelled one. Why doncha come on over here and talk to me and my friends? I know there’s somethin’ we got that you want!

Lily pulled her cloak even closer and ducked her head down deeper into the hood as she walked on. She passed a group of three men working at replacing the deckboards on the center pier and kept walking.

Hey, bitch! Didn’t you hear me? yelled the man.

She heard you, pig! said one of the men, a young man maybe twenty years old, as he stood and faced back toward the mercenaries. Ain’t you learned nothin’ over the past weeks, stupid? You cain’t talk to people that way! It ain’t… polite!

Lily glanced back at the young man as he faced the bored mercenaries and watched the three move toward him. She stopped and looked on with fear in her eyes. Then she saw the guards move between them. The mercenaries frowned, turned and walked back toward the warehouse.

Back to work, Donny. Don’t worry about them, boy. Just do your work and we’ll watch out for her. said one of the guards who looked to be in charge.

Okay, boss. said the young brown haired man as he glanced at the dark haired girl once and sat back down to pound spikes through the rough timber. The guard grinned at her and motioned for her to continue on.

Lily nodded and walked out to the end of the long pier, sat down on her cloak and pulled her knees up to her chin, the cloak pulled tight about her to ward off the cold sea breeze. She watched the gentle waves come in from the breakwater to lap at the pilings below her and the Sha’el play as they chased the small fish out in the harbor, their chattering speech calming.

She let her mind wander to her home, the small ranching village of Lerania, just two hundred miles southwest of the mountain kingdom of Shantiel and the day the slavers came through. She remembered that she and several other girls were running while men and women took up what they had to hand to fight the thugs off. She remembered the pain in the back of her head and the smell of the smoke from the fire in the village. She woke being carried by four other girls toward the south and the harbor there. Then the tight loading into the ship’s cargo hold and the rough travel to Shedran.

During the seven day trip, several of the girls were taken to the upper deck and when they returned they were crying inconsolably. The men had raped them and passed them one to the other. She thought she would be next and tried desperately to make herself small. It didn’t work.

She was taken just two days before they made harbor and, after the captain was finished with her, the crew took turns. She was in pain for days after, but Luther saw how pretty she was and decided to keep her instead of selling her to Jason Shields. That was five years ago and the fear never left. She just hardened herself to the fact that she would never be free again and did what she could to survive.

Now there was a possibility that her family had lived through the assault and was even now looking for her. The question was: Did she want to be found now that she was no longer…

It’s kinda cold to be sittin’ out here, Miss. came the soft voice beside her. She glanced at the brown haired man… more of a boy… and frowned. He continued, Boss said I should come out here in case you accidently fall in. I told ‘im you looked very capable but he said it was time for my break anyway and sent me out here. He turned to her and, with an apologetic look he added, I can go on back down the pier and wait if you want. I won’t bother you. You look like you wanna think a bit so I’ll just shut up. Then he looked at his hands and sat with his legs dangling from the pier.

What’s your name? she asked as she glanced at him.

Donny. he replied. Yours?

I’m Lily. You work here?

Sort of. he responded softly, something different in his voice.

Well, either you work here or you don’t. she said with an impish grin. You called the guard ‘boss’. Does he own the harbor?

No, ma’am. He’s my guard. he replied with a chuckle.

So, you’re someone important? Lily asked.

Nope. Just a prisoner. he responded off-handedly.

What? asked the girl in alarm.

It’s okay. I just was caught up tryin’ to take care of my sister and had to… had to do things I didn’t wanna do. he said as he glanced at the dark haired girl apologetically.

Like what?

Mostly just stand around lookin’ tough. he said as he grinned sidelong at her. Didn’t work all that well, though. The other guys said I had too much of a baby-face!

What happened to your sister? asked Lily as she grinned.

Lady Alice took her to the palace. said Donny as he looked out on the calm water. She’s bein’ took care of very well, but I don’t get to see her much bein’ as how I’m a criminal.

What’s her name?

May. replied the young man softly as he looked down at his hands again. She’s just a little girl and they had her in the whore… the brothel, but I’m hopin’ that they kept their word and she didn’t hafta… you know…

I think she did okay, Donny. Lily responded softly. Most of those girls look out for one another anyway. I think she’s alright.

Oh, she is! Donny said as he grinned at the dark haired girl with a nod. Lady Alice brought her by when I was workin’ on the other side of town and I had a chance to sit with her. She’s doin’ fine, she said, and she has friends now helpin’ her… you know… get over… stuff.

Lily grinned and watched the small rollers come in from the breakwater, the sunlight glinting off of the small waves. She knew the freckle faced little girl and had helped her get settled in at the palace.

Well, I need to be gettin’ back. said Donny as he got to his feet. It’s time I went back to work.

And the guard might beat you with his sword as well! said Lily as she stood and grinned at him.

Yeah, somethin’ like that. he grinned back. If you’re ready, I’ll walk you back.

Lily walked beside Donny with her cloak flowing about her now strangely warm body, neither saying a word. At the wharf, Donny turned to her and nodded.

Be careful goin’ back, Miss Lily. This ain’t no place for a girl to be goin’ alone.

That’s true, Miss. added the guard as he grinned at the two young people. I’ll have one of the other guards…

A horn sounded from the harbor wall and, as the guard looked there, one of those guards pointed out to sea. Donny looked out into the glare and saw the three small dots that could only be ships coming toward the entrance to the breakwater.

Donny, take the girl back inside. said the guard sharply. Once she’s safe, get back here. As he turned to the young man, the guard frowned. I’m trusting you, young man. Don’t let me down.

I won’t, boss, and thanks. said Donny as he held his hand out to the girl.

Just get back here as quick as you can, boy. said the guard sternly as he watched the girl take Donny’s hand to walk quickly toward the gate.

One of the three mercenaries from before watched the two young people’s progress and stood up. The guard pointed at him and then down. The mercenary frowned but sat back on the ground. As soon as the two young people passed through the harbor gate, the guard turned his attention to the ships coming into the breakwater.

Where am I taking you? asked Donny as he hurriedly walked Lily through the second gate and headed toward the third.

To the palace. she said breathlessly. He stopped and looked down at her with a bit of fear. She quickly added with a grin, Oh, I’m not a princess or anything. Just a girl who has been… who is a guest of Prince Jason and Lady Alice.

Okay. he said as he began to walk briskly again. I’ll take you to the barracks gate and leave you there. You should be safe enough…

No! You will take me inside to the palace. she replied petulantly. The guard said you needed to make sure I’m safe and that’s the only way.

He glanced down and caught the sheepish grin and grinned back. They walked quickly on, her hand held tightly in his.

It took almost an hour to make it from the harbor to the wide barracks gate and, as the two young people passed through toward the palace gate, the great doors to the palace opened. Thom, Jason and Illycia walked out. Donny stopped short of the palace gate and dropped the hand he held. He stood with his head down and his hands folded before him as the three approached.

What are you doing here, Donny? asked Illycia as she walked toward them.

Boss said I was to bring Miss Lily home, Lady Alice. I hope you don’t mind, but I need to get back. Boss depends on me doin’ right.

Yes, but don’t you want to see May? asked Illycia as she tilted her head slightly.

Yes ma’am, but I really need…

Nonsense. said Jason as he smiled at the two young people. Lily, will you take Donny inside and help him find May?

Sure, Jason. Then I’ll join you. she replied.

That’s not a good idea! said Donny sharply. At her frown he added, Sorry Miss Lily but there’s a ship comin’ in and we don’t know who it is. You need to be kept safe and here is the best place for you to do that. You said so yourself.

He’s right you know. said Illycia as she looked into the frowning girl’s hazel eyes.

Okay. she said as she looked at the ground between them. Then I should get the girls ready just in case, right?

That may be prudent. said Jason sharply. Donny, I want you to stay with the girls until we return. Will you do that?

But… what about…

I’ll take care of it. he said as he laid a hand to the young man’s shoulder.

Then, as Lily took his hand and started half-dragging him toward the palace doors, he turned to the Prince of Shedran and asked, Would you tell Boss that I’ll be there in a bit? I promised!

Don’t worry about it, Donny. said Jason with a grin. I’ll tell him. Just come back when you hear that it’s safe.

Thanks! he responded and allowed himself to be dragged through the great doors.

You think it a good idea to have him in there alone with all of those girls? asked Illycia as she took Jason’s arm and started again for the gate.

I’m not worried, Illy. replied the Prince of Shedran. He’s a good fellow who just got off on the wrong path.

"I’m not worried about him, Jason!" Illycia said as she grinned up at him.

Thom almost doubled over with laughter and had to stop to catch his breath. As he stood there with his hands on his knees with both of the young royalty grinning at him, the carriage came around the side of the palace and rolled toward them. George pulled the reins and the two horses slid to a stop just behind them.

Hey! Ya wanna lift? asked the lanky soldier as he grinned at the