Chapter 6 – Marching Orders

“I just don’t see a way to make this work, my lord. The treasury won’t hold forever.”

Hallen took a long sip of his drink, before setting the glass down and studying his advisor. “Aldous, why must you always be so dreary? For God’s sake, man, we have the charter for the west pass in writing. Today should be a day of celebration!”

“Yes, my lord, but consider that historically there is little to no traffic or trade through the pass. Just whom, may I ask, do you think will pay these tolls?”

Hallen frowned, grabbing the goblet again and swishing it thoughtfully. “You know I really thought you were more shrewd than that. Do you know what my dear cousin told me?”

Aldous scoffed. “Neve? That man has told you a great many things, and few of them ever seem to hold much truth. It’d be best for us all if the fool would keep his travels elsewhere.”

“Yes, well be that as it may, I have it on good authority this may be different. You see… I hear there may be a path to the Northern Leagues through the west pass and Greensward.”

His servant’s eyebrows rose, but that was the only reaction the old man deigned to show. The young Lord Hallen continued, unperturbed. “And if we can find that route, good Aldous, we don’t need to worry about all those angry letters from Lord Vask. He can keep his little forts to our west.”

“And if this pass doesn’t exist, or even if it does, do you truly think the leagues would trade with you after what your father did?”

“Aldous, Aldous, Aldous. If there’s one thing The Leagues are always looking for, it’s trade. And-“

Before they could continue, the study door burst open. Captain Breck stumbled inside, dripping rainwater and mud with every step. “Apologies for the late intrusion, Lord Hallen, but I bring news that cannot wait.”

Hallen leaned back in his chair, thoughts of trade forgotten as he glowered at the stained carpet. “Aldous, make sure we have someone see to that… mess please. Now, Captain Breck… So good to see you.” Hallen sighed. “I’d say take a seat, but given the state of your dress… I’m not so inclined. What is it that couldn’t wait until you could at least clean up?”

If Breck was bothered by the pointed remarks, he chose not to show it. “Yes, yes, yes. My lord. Demons are to the north. Demons!! Something wicked and evil, truly. They resided in a tower made of stone so perfect and dark. I’ve never seen anything like it. And on top, there was a floating eyeball. An eyeball! The size of a cart. And it looked at us. It was… It was terrible, my lord. Just terrible!” The captain was speaking in a rush, each word coming out quicker than the last.

The mention of demons had Hallen’s eyes narrowing. Something cruel came alight behind them. “Demons? Really? Describe them to me.”

“Red ones, with clawed hands and sharp fangs… and a big black one with scales and claws bigger than my belt dagger.”

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With each word, the interest in Hallen’s eyes grew more and more. “Oh my…” he gasped quietly. “And how many, did you say?”

“I didn’t, my lord… About seven. Perhaps more lurking inside the tower itself. We couldn’t be certain.” Breck straightened, finding his composure. “We withdrew in good order after conducting a full reconnaissance of the area.”

Aldous glanced at Breck’s empty hands. The captain had left with a spear, but currently held none.

Hallen, for his part, stood, walking over to Breck and making an inviting gesture with both hands. “Captain Breck. How would you like to be my guest for dinner tonight? I know it’s a bit late, but I’m sure Aldous can find us something from the kitchens. We have so much to discuss.” The way he said that last line brought a chill over even Captain Breck’s spine.

The captain hesitated, looking to Aldous for support. None came.

“Ah. You see my lord, the travels were quite rough. We returned as quickly as we could to get you the news… I’m not sure if I’d make a proper guest,” he said finally.