An Uncomfortable Interview
Day 87
158 Days Remaining
They started out before sunrise and found their way back to the road for the final short leg. It remained misty, and the forest birds were waking from slumber even after the sun had risen, and the clop of hooves seemed a loud intrusion on the sleepy morning. The road carried them up and down gently, but they could see little in the gray air, and Robby could not tell if they climbed more than they descended. Even though the sky grew brighter, the cool air barely moved at all. They could sense occupation around them, smoke from kindled hearths, the clank of a harness being hitched away to the left, the closing of a door from somewhere ahead, and the cry of a distant cock. They passed a few cottages, attended by their owners, chopping wood outside, or drawing water, or taking out the chamber pots. All eyed the travelers suspiciously, but without greeting or challenge other than the occasional civil wave. The mists evaporated somewhat, and they could see a gentle rise before them, leading between two fields, and then more steeply upward through a sparse wood. Suddenly the way was open, and the road turned, curving downhill. There lay Tallinvale, a patchwork valley widening into the distance between bordering hills, plaid with lines and squares and other shapes. The fields directly below were crisscrossed with stone-laid canals feeding the neatly ordered fields and orchards as well as the moats bounding the city walls, less than a half-mile from the bluff where the company paused to look.
Tallin Hall with its graceful spires predated the walled city that surrounded it. They could see that the city was about a half mile or less from its center to each of the four walls that enclosed the town. The ramparts were of gray polished stone and on this, the north side, they loomed three stories high, topped with tall battlements. Where each wall joined one to another, a watchtower jutted up. Yet the graceful domes and spires of Tallin Hall, away on the far side of the city, stood in contrast to the stern city walls; it was a banner-bedecked structure of a light tan complexion, roofed in green copper, with ample windows of gleaming glass. Iron and stone balconies flew gracefully from its five spires and its highest stories. Four of the spires were at corners of the structure, slim turrets, topped with tapered roofs of green copper. The fifth, standing three times the diameter of the others and somewhat higher, was otherwise of the same design but located midway on the western side of the Hall.
It was a striking view, indeed, looking as they did from the wooded heights while the morning mists rose up over the fields. Here and there, the early golden sun broke the vapors apart, and a gentle breeze pushed them away so that the glint of glass and the fluttering of pennants on the battlements and spire-tops gave the place something of the inviting aspect that it must have once known in happier days when the Hall was full of children and laughter and song. Sir Sun, as if turning over in his bed after a sleepy look about, pulled the skyward sheets back up around his crown and disappeared once more into the pillowy mists. Thus, the scene returned to its somber if not sullen appearance, as if a great sigh was heaved after a brief happy thought.
"Home," Ullin said.
He dismounted.
"I think it would be better if Ashlord took lead of our company while we are here," he said. "I am a King's soldier, and here, though I be kin and kith, I should expect no rank or station other than that of my Duinnor commission. In truth, I do not know what to expect in the way of greeting or hospitality."
Ashlord nodded as Ullin led his horse aside and, with long practice, rechecked his cinches and straps as he did every time he dismounted.
"Even though we do not come here to meet Lord Tallin, we must present ourselves before him, as is customary and courteous," Ashlord said to the group. "You may as well know that Lord Tallin is a brooding and somewhat resentful man these last many years. It has been a long time—well before your father's time, Robby—since visitors to Tallin Hall received much welcome. Though the hospitality shown to us will be correct, it will likely be somewhat cool. I beg you, do not speak to Lord Tallin or any of his counselors or courtiers unless they bid you do so. And then, keep your answers short. He is a shrewd man. If he desires, he will have more out of you than would be wise to reveal. I will speak for us when I may. Those we are to meet here may be his guests, but we cannot know on what terms they may be here. And we should not presume that Lord Tallin knows any of their business with Robby. Let us hope we meet with Lord Tallin first, while we ourselves are innocent of that business, rather than afterwards when we may be indiscreet."
"Do you know who it is that asked us here?" Sheila queried.
"I have guessed, but I have no certainty," Ashlord told her. "And, remember, it was Robby who was bid come. The rest of us were not asked and may not be expected. Whoever it is that invited Robby may not wish us to be there. We will just have to see what unfolds."
Ashlord nudged his horse onward, Ullin remounted, and they followed after, descending onto the valley floor and through a high vine-covered iron archway. The road led them through fields, orchards and vineyards, bearing straight through the center of the valley, toward the north gate of the city. They crossed over narrow stone bridges that spanned the network of canals. Looking down into one as he crossed, Robby was surprised at how deep it appeared, the water dark and slow-moving, the stone sides of the same gray polished granite, laid without mortar, as the city walls. It would be nigh impossible to climb out, he thought, if one were unlucky enough to fall in. The short bridges were also made of the same stone, each laid across an arched span. Jutting out of each span was an iron bar that extended into the side of the canal.
"What are those iron bars for?" he asked, pointing to a bridge not far away that was parallel to the one they were crossing. "Do they help support the bridges?"
"No," Ullin answered. "Quite the contrary. These canals bring water to the surrounding fields, but they also defend the town. The keystone of each bridge is attached to the end of one such bar as you see there. It is laid underground through a small tunnel. By a series of bars laid end to end through the small tunnels, they run back to the interior of the city walls. There, over the end of each run of bars, is poised a huge hanging hammer that will, when released, drive the bar and knock out the keystone, thereby collapsing the bridge. The other bridges, like the one over there, see it? They are made of wood. They are built so that the farmers may easily cross at various places to tend the orchards and fields, but they can be easily taken up if need be."
"Oh."
"Yes, an ingenious design copied from Heneil himself," Ullin went on. "He was one of the greatest builders, especially concerning fortifications. No stronghold built by his hand and manned by willing defenders has ever fallen."
" 'Cept Tulith Attis," Billy said.
"He did not build that place," Ashlord corrected him. "Only the inner chambers and workings. And it was by treachery, not by skill at arms, that Tulith Attis fell."
"Oh. But these canals ain't very wide. Wouldn't ye just have to fill up the canals with rocks an' stones an' stuff?" Billy asked. "Make yer own bridge across, so to speak?"
"That is ever pointed out to Lord Tallin," nodded Ullin. "But he always replies the same, 'Let them try.' "
"Sounds like famous last words, Ullin. Has Tallinvale ever been attacked?" Sheila asked.
"Never yet."
At the next bridge Billy and Sheila fell back behind Ibin and Ullin, allowing Ashlord and Robby to have the lead. Billy nudged his horse nearer to Sheila.
"They say the walls of this place rose overnight," he said to her softly, mindful of Ullin ahead of them.
Sheila nodded. "I have heard it said so."
"Aye, an' it's said that the master of this place made a dark pact to get it done," Billy added.
"I never heard that," Sheila said skeptically.
"Aye, it's said. Me mum told me so. She said it was done before the Lord Tallin brung his family eastward, an' that it was all done secret-like, to host an legion of warriors durin' a time of war, if need be. An' that the villages an' farmlands sprang up only afterwards, with folks feelin' safer under Lord Tallin's watch."
Sheila admitted the walls looked beyond the skill of any she had ever imagined. They seemed to be made of a continuous polished rock, without seam or crack or any line where any stone was laid upon another. The sun broke through the hazy lifting mists and now the walls positively gleamed, so polished they were. "Hm," was all she said, but it was enough to embolden Billy, who nudged his horse up closer behind Ullin.
"Ullin," Billy asked, "who built this place?"
"Our ancestor, who was among the first Men to come to these shores, built the original Tallin Hall," he said, "near the beginning of this age."
"But what about these walls?"
Ullin looked right and left, as if examining the walls for the first time. He shrugged.
"Lord Tallin will never say. But workers of Endeweir is what I have been told, master craftsmen employed by my grandfather in the years while our family lived in Vanara."
"Endeweir? The ice people of the far north?"
"Yes, that is what I was told. There are many other rumors and much speculation."
"But they live far away, far beyond the lands of Glareth, do they not?" Sheila said.
"They do. And they are not known for their stone craft."
Though early, they could see activity on the parapets. At the open gate ahead stood a line of guards dressed in light green trimmed in gold with swords at their sides. A line of heavy lances stood against the inner wall of the arched entrance, and beside each was hung a shield for quick retrieval. Before the riders passed over the last canal, the guards neatly donned their shields, took up their lances, and lined across the drawbridge in two staggered ranks, each six men across. In front of them stood two figures, one tall and blond-bearded dressed like the other soldiers, but without shield or lance. He held his helmet under one arm while his other hand clutched the sword hilt at his side, impassively watching the company approach. The other man they easily recognized as Tyrillick. He stood with this arms crossed but with not so stern a look as his companions on the drawbridge.
"Who goes!" the captain of the guard challenged.
"Kingsman and company for the Hall!" answered Ullin from the rear of the group, dismounting and leading his horse forward.
The rest dismounted also, and Ashlord said, "We are invited."
But the captain's eyes were on the Kingsman.
"For the Hall, Kingsman," he said loudly. "Let pass!"
The captain stepped forward to Ullin with outstretched hand and a look of happy recognition while the ranks behind him parted to either side in well-practiced coordination.
"Welcome, Lord Ullin Saheed!"
"Weylan!" Ullin took the hand, and they clapped each other on the shoulders warmly. "So you are made captain?"
"Aye, these six years ago, winter. Of the North Gatesmen. We were not expecting you, or else I would have made a proper welcome to Tallin the Younger!"
"None of that! You know how things are. I am Kingsman, now. Seeing you is welcome aplenty."
"Indeed," said Tyrillick, "only one was bid come."
Ullin smiled at the blank-faced elf and said, "I came as guide to companions not easily parted from each other."
"I see. Well. Lord Tallin has requested that you be shown to him as soon as you arrive. I informed him of a visitor, and he received word yesterday that your party was approaching."
"Very well, then," Ashlord said, a bit impatiently. "Please lead us on."
Captain Weylan nodded and turned sharply around, marching ahead of them.
"Hono-o-or, STANCE!" Weylan ordered.
The guardsmen snapped to attention, drawing their feet together and smartly bringing their lances at an angle against their shields with a saluting bang. The company passed under the portcullis and into the thick wall, going between the stern ranks, and each soldier in turn snapped his lance upright as Ullin passed. Ashlord noting this, smiled. Ullin remained expressionless, his eyes down.
"I'll have your mounts and baggage seen to," said Weylan as they cleared the inner portcullis. He motioned over several men. "And perhaps I will see you later."
"I hope so," replied Ullin, handing over his reins. "But, remember, here I am but a Kingsman."
"Aye, sir. But a much honored one, long missed."
• • •
Within was the small city of Tallinvale. Brick and stone houses stood in orderly rows, and there were buildings of all shapes and sizes in the broad space bounded by the walls. Paved streets fanned away left and right between the buildings, and were full of activity all around, the sort that one might expect to find in any town—children playing, carpenters working, market stalls, craftsmen's shops, comings and goings, carts and wagons moving here and there. There was military activity, too, with men drilling upon the many large yards and tourney fields within sight. Scaffolding was erected in several places around the walls and great hoists were lifting nets and buckets of materials upwards to be unloaded onto the parapets. Robby eyed one gang of workers nearby who were attaching a heavy ballista, like a large bow, to the ropes of a nearby crane. On into the town, they passed out from between a row of buildings and into an open area where dozens of archers were drilling, releasing their arrows in volleys that whistled through the air, and the passersby could hear the drumming thump of them into their targets. On the other side of this field, there was a large foundry with anvils ringing away and smoke belching from bellowed furnaces. Tyrillick led on briskly, and they passed a cluster of glass-fronted shops and taverns. Through the windows of one, Billy saw workers pouring molten glass into molds. They kept for some distance along the straight way, seeing Tallin Hall rising ahead of them as they approached, its graceful towers watching over all.
The old original walls still surrounded the estate, but were nearly invisible under the ivy that encased them. Robby's company passed through another gateway and onto the estate grounds, entering a very different kind of space than the town they had just passed through. Here, the hedge-bordered street was paved with small white gravel, and at regular intervals topiary archways on either side led out to the open grassy lawns of the estate. Looking through the archways as they went, they saw fruit trees on neatly trimmed lawns, banks of rose bushes, and islands of ornamental gardens. There were a few massive oaks with low, drooping limbs that spread out and nearly touched the ground, some of them dripping with long beards of swaying moss. Like an island, of sorts, of beauty out of place, it seemed to Robby, imbued with a restful feeling. The grace and calm seemed to emphasize a sense of isolation from the town. Yet here, too, was activity, though of a more domestic kind, with gardeners and groundskeepers busy at their trades.
"My master is not yet arrived," Tyrillick said to Robby.
"Surely you may tell us now who your master is? Now that we are here."
"That will be revealed to you this evening, I imagine."
Ullin, now at the rear of the group, kept his head down in contrast to the others who craned their necks this way and that to gape at the magnificence of the manor house, Tallin Hall. It was imposing, but without the sullen look that Robby imagined. Rather, with its tan stones and its graceful balconies and many windows, it seemed light and airy. And, though he saw arrow slits and other defensive aspects, the place appeared to have been built for comfort and pleasure. There was a side path that led away around to the back of the Hall, but Tyrillick kept them straight on to the front where a series of broad stairs took them up to a covered portico where tall doors were being opened as they neared. There emerged an older man of medium build, with long gray hair tied back in a ponytail and dressed in dark blue tunic and pants. Behind him stood another soldier, dressed very much like Weylan except with a black cape buckled to the shoulder straps of his breastplate. His beard was iron-gray, and his hair was shorn very close to his balding scalp. A third man appeared, thin and tall, wearing a fine black waistcoat, jacket, and breeches, and wearing polished black shoes with silver buckles underneath white silken stockings. He was clean shaven, his hair was white, and he looked to be in his seventies at least. His face, like the others, was blank, but it was not unpleasant, and his blue eyes sparkled like a distant lake in sunlight as he looked them over. The man in the blue tunic took a step forward.
"Welcome to Tallin Hall," he said. "I am Dargul, counsel to Lord Tallin. This is Captain Bekund, of the House Guard, and this is Windard, Keeper of Tallin Hall. Windard will see you to your rooms later and will look after your needs during your stay."
The soldier snapped a bow in military fashion. The elderly housekeeper made his bow, which was less distinct but somehow much more elegant.
"I am Collandoth, called Ashlord by many," Ashlord motioned at Robby, "and this is Robby Ribbon, son of Robigor, of Passdale and Barley. And these others are our travel companions. Tyrillick, here, bid us come."
"I am honored to meet you. Yes, you are expected," Dargul said, studying first Robby, then Ullin. "Will you please come this way?"
"I will come to you later," Tyrillick said to Robby. "When it is time."
Tyrillick turned and departed back the way they had come.
Robby and his group followed Dargul on into the Hall and through a grand foyer with high arching ceilings, lit by glass skylights. Polished rose-colored marble clicked under their footsteps and the sound echoed from the wide walls. A curving staircase wound upward on either side to a high balcony overhead, but they were led straight on to a square gilded door, outside of which there was a table and four guards.
"Visitors may not bear arms beyond this point," said Captain Bekund. "Save only the Kingsman who, by the King's Law, must be exempted."
They deposited their weapons onto the table, and the visitors were each in turn inspected by Bekund. Robby was tempted to undo Swyncraff from around his waist and lay it on the table, too, but a light touch and a subtle shake of the head from Ashlord stopped him. Bekund hesitated when looking at Swyncraff, but quickly moved on.
"Lord Tallin will see you now," said Dargul, nodding at the guards who pushed open the doors, revealing an even larger hall within. It was also lit by skylights, and its floor was tiled with the same rose marble, but checkered between tiles of white. The style of the arches very much reminded Robby of the bell room at Tulith Attis, but hanging from their apexes were many-candled crystal lamps suspended by long silvered chains. As well, the columns below the arches supported additional lamps, dangling from gold hangers, and many small elegant fireplaces lined the walls. Here and there were pennants and battle standards carved of wood on staffs tilting out from rings of iron set into the columns and walls. More pennants and cloth flags draped down from the balconies above, along with shields and bucklers of various designs and heraldry.
Dargul led the way, walking ahead of Ashlord and Robby. Sheila, Billy, and Ibin followed, staring and gaping at the room and its contents, while Ullin came lastly. Ashlord and Robby kept their eyes ahead where, at the far end of the room, there was a low dais spanning the width of the hall and flanked by banners and hung with intricate tapestries behind. Unlike the main floor, the dais was carpeted with rich heavy greens and blues. Two fireplaces, the grandest in the hall, burned to either side, and two low-hanging chandeliers glowed brightly. There were two great and ornate chairs pushed to the side, apparently to permit room for the large long table that was there. Beside the table stood two men with their backs to the approaching group. They were discussing a large map and other charts unrolled between them on the table. One of them was dressed in military fashion. The other man was robed in splendid silks, green and yellow and silver with ruby studs along the cuffs. He had long red hair spread across his shoulders, and, when he turned to glance at the visitors, Robby saw a gray-streaked red beard that came down to his chest. In the moment that he briefly looked his way, Robby thought he saw an angry flash in his eyes that made his stomach flutter. Robby did not want to appear weak before Lord Tallin, and he did not want to seem too proud or arrogant, either. But Robby had no doubt that he would be verbally cut to shreds by this man if he made one slip.
Dargul stopped a few feet before the dais and gestured for the visitors to wait while Lord Tallin finished his discussion. Robby could hear their voices, and he gathered that the military man was sharing something of vital importance. This soldier had white hair that flowed over his hard leather cuirass, made in heavy bands, and fastened about his shoulders was a long purple cloak, unbuttoned and flung back as a cape. He stood with his feet apart, and when he turned to face the group, Robby saw one of the sternest faces he had ever beheld. Two long braids of gray-white hair hung over his shoulders and his hand rested on a heavy brass-hilted sword at his side. He crossed his arms, but did not take his eyes from the group as he listened and nodded, piercing each visitor in turn with his brooding eyes until they settled long and hard upon Robby. His thin lips, his clean-shaven dark face, his high brow—his entire face, in fact—frowned.
"Very well," he said, still not taking his eyes from Robby. "Please do me the honor of remaining for a few moments."
"Certainly, my lord." The red-bearded one bowed low and stepped aside, rolling up the map and taking a position to the left before the group.
Dargul cleared his throat and, in a voice that was louder than was necessary, said, "Lord Tallin, the expected visitor has arrived, with company. I present to you Robby Ribbon, late of Passdale and Barley."
Robby hardly knew who to bow to, so surprised by his own mistake. Yet it was clear that the white-haired warrior, not much older in appearance and vitality than Ullin, was in fact his grandfather, the Lord Tallin. Somewhat flustered, Robby managed to bow not too awkwardly.
Tallin lowered his arms and took a step toward the group.
"You have the appearance of your father," he said, "but the bearing of your mother. They are well, I trust?"
"My lord," Robby said, "have you not heard? Passdale and Barley have fallen to Tracian Redvests, and my people are scattered. Your daughter, my mother, is near Janhaven, and she is gathering all the forces she may muster to counter the invaders and to protect those who escaped. Her husband, my father, is making his way to Glareth, there to plea for aid. Perhaps some of our people have made it away safely, perhaps some have come here. But many are missing and may be dead or captured by the enemy."
"I have heard. No one has come out of Barley as far as we know. I thought your mother would have brought her family here," Tallin said, "and I wonder that your father did not travel here to seek assistance."
"My father took the only way that the attackers left open for him. And my mother will not leave her people in the time of their need, my lord."
"She left her people long ago," Tallin retorted coldly. He flung himself down into the left-hand chair and slumped. "I understand your aim is to go to Duinnor. To seek assistance there."
"Yes. If none can be found closer at hand," Robby said.
"If you mean to imply Tallinvale should go to the rescue of Passdale," Tallin said, suddenly rising from his seat and stepping down from the dais toward Robby. "Let me put that from your head immediately. The strength of this valley is in the south where a Redvest army of two hundred thousand is gathered, we think, to move westward. Two hundred thousand so far. Should they choose to turn north, all of Tallinvale would be open to them. Meanwhile, to our west is the Damar warlord who looks with envy upon our lands, hoping that the Tracian Redvests will strike so that he may send his forces through the mountains against us. An uneasy treaty is all that stands between Tallinvale and those two powers. And while trade and commerce continues between us, I have only seventy thousand to put against them should either attack. Dare I provoke such a disaster by interfering with their doings in Passdale? I, too, have sent couriers to Duinnor. For years, I have seen the gathering clouds of war, and I have forewarned the West of the days that have now come upon us. Duinnor has done nothing! No supporting army has it raised for the relief and security of the eastern realms. No treasure has been sent for the purchase or production of arms. No emissaries have gone with threats or reasoning to Tracia. Duinnor! You should go back to your mother. Your journey is a waste of time." He shot a glance at Ullin before turning away. "Even if you do have a Kingsman to vouch for you."
"But we are determined to go, my lord," Ashlord said. "We hope only to pass the night and then be on our way."
"Your way is as confused as ever, Collandoth, Watcher," said the red-bearded one, stepping up with a smirk. "What do you watch for that none else may see? Do the stars not shine upon us all? Be there messages upon the wind and water that none but you may read? You skulk from realm to realm, from court to court, seeking new signs in ancient scribbles. Yet, ever is your effort futile. I am surprised at the gullibility of your comrades. At least the Kingsman should know what folly it is to heed one such as you. A mystic! A dreamer of days long past, and of kingdoms fallen into dust. Tell me," he said, now addressing the group, "has he told you of his lost empire? Has Collandoth the Mighty promised you riches and glory, wealth and honor beyond imagining, as soon as he is returned to his imaginary magic throne?"
While he spoke, the red-bearded one stepped down from the dais and walked among the group, nearly snickering at his own words.
"Lord Tallin," Ashlord said. "Hear my words." At this, Ashlord snapped his fingers in the red-bearded one's face who then stumbled back, blinking and rubbing his eyes. "Poison has ever been the specialty of Toolant the Red! Beware who you keep in company during these days of doom, and those entrusted with your secrets! There are greater powers at work in the world than even Duinnor may imagine. In times such as these, you deserve the workings of a more subtle mind than this one will ever possess, though his words be sweet and welcome, like honey. Do you know the last House he served and what became of them? What of those he served before that?"
Tallin managed a wry smile, but said nothing as he glanced at Toolant, whose face was now nearly as red as his hair.
"Do you call me traitor before my own lord?"
"Now, now!" Tallin said, holding up his hands before Ashlord could answer. Turning to Ashlord, he said softly, "My advisors are of my own choosing. Do not impugn them before me! I know the unfortunate circumstances that befell the Ruling Prince of Tracia before Toolant came here. And I hold him blameless. I also know," he said to Toolant, "that your words to Collandoth are unjust, ill-chosen, and grossly misinformed. He and his company are guests in my Hall, and I will not have them challenged or insulted while they are here."
"Yes, Lord," Toolant said, bowing. "I beg your forgiveness. Perhaps I should now attend to our other matters?"
"Yes. Indeed, do so. And I will see you in a fortnight."
He watched Toolant leave. When they heard the side door slam angrily, Tallin heaved a sigh that seemed uncharacteristic to his stiff demeanor. Dargul faced the group and put his finger to his lips, as if listening. For a few moments, they stood silent. Bekund, the Captain of the Hall, entered.
"Toolant has departed, my lord," he reported smartly.
Dargul nodded, then, as Bekund retired, he turned to Ashlord.
"Well do we know that Toolant is a spy. He weaseled his way into our court some years ago, and, in order to use him to spread false news to our enemies, we play along."
"We allow the appearance that he has displaced Dargul, here, as my chief counselor," said Lord Tallin. "As I alone hold rein over the armed forces of Tallinvale, and as I still privately confide all with Dargul, Toolant does little damage and we do much. He has been useful, for he moves between our lines and the Redvest lines without challenge. He has unwittingly carried word to my agents in the southeast and to those amongst the Damar in the mountains, and he has unknowingly brought word back from them. As well, we have used him on several occasions to mask our true weakness at arms, for we can field far fewer armed men than the enemy thinks."
"A risky course, Lord Tallin," Robby said. "If they decide to come, they will do so with overwhelming force, thinking their adversary mightier than it is." He realized immediately that he had spoken out of turn, that Ashlord was to be their spokesman. But the words were out of his mouth before he could stop them. And Robby did not notice Ashlord's subtle smile.
"True," said Tallin, squinting in appreciation of Robby's quick assessment of the problem. "Then our walls will be our only defense, if we can gather into them quickly enough. But we seek, as we have done so far, to avoid bloodshed."
"Let us just hope our ruse holds," Dargul said. "Perhaps they will not turn their armies this way."
"Why are you telling us this?" Ashlord said. "How do you know you can trust us any more than Toolant?"
"Because I know the reason you have come here. That is, I know who it is that you shall meet," said Tallin. "Toolant must never find out lest all of the enemy is poured out against you."
"It was a surprise and shock to us when Tyrillick came before us, in secret, and told us of his master's desire to meet young Robby," Dargul said.
"We still do not know who that is," Robby said.
"You know enough to keep you until this evening," Tallin said. "And by then Toolant will be far away to the west, carrying our latest wishes of goodwill to the Damar. I do not know what business you have with our coming guest, but I could not refuse the liaison, and I would not even if I could. And I am deeply disturbed by this turn. I believe you, Collandoth, when you say that these are days of doom. I do not trust in hope, and I have not these many long years. But if you have any word that may bring encouragement, I beseech it of you."
"I have none, Lord. Yet there is ever hope. If you haven't any, perhaps you may look to that of others, for none may weaken it by the sharing."
"I see. Then I wish to speak privately with the Kingsman and with my other grandson, Robby Ribbon. Windard, will you see to the others?"
"Yes, my lord."
None of the group had noticed Windard's entrance, but there he stood behind them, and he motioned for them to follow. He ushered the others out, with Ullin and Robby remaining, and Robby caught a look of warning from Ashlord as he turned away.
"This way, if you please," Dargul said, motioning Robby and Ullin to follow Lord Tallin. They were led through a side doorway, followed by Dargul, along a narrow hall, and then up a winding staircase to a broad landing. Tallin opened a door and motioned them into a small room, no larger than a closet, lit by small elegant oil lamps overhead. It was a snug fit for the four of them, then Dargul closed the door and pulled on a gold braided cord that dropped through a hole in the ceiling. The floor shook slightly, and to Robby's amazement the walls, including the door they had just stepped through, began to slide away downward. Somewhere below was the sound of gurgling of water. The platform on which they stood, more like a cage, literally floated upwards inside a shaft within one of the great spires of Tallin Hall. Tallin stood beside Dargul, arms crossed, and said not a word. Ullin, seeing Robby's surprise, could not help smiling, and chuckled silently to himself. The noise stopped, as did the cage, and Dargul opened a door for them. They stepped out into a short hallway and then through another door into a spacious room very much like a large parlor. It was lined with shelves of books, tables with charts and instruments of mapping, stands with swords, and from its ceilings hung marvelous tapestries. Here and there on the walls, in spaces between the shelves, were framed canvas paintings. Some of these were of landscapes, one depicted ships of the sea, sails billowing, and several were portraits. Robby saw one of a little girl that very much resembled his mother. There was a fireplace and several nearby chairs, and, on the adjoining wall were glass-paned doors, outside of which was a balcony. The doors were open wide, and Robby saw the blue ridges of the Thunder Mountains.
"Please sit," Tallin said, gesturing at two wing-back chairs upholstered in dark blue paisley linen. "Dargul will you pour for us?"
When all had glasses of pale wine in their hands, Tallin sat, too.
"Ullin, do you still ride the King's Post? It appears you are now involved with the Barleyfolk and their troubles."
"I am commissioned to carry special dispatches from Duinnor and Vanara to Glareth and back. Collandoth is my liaison in the Eastlands. However, I was asked by the mayor of Passdale to help train a militia there. I had completed my deliveries, so I agreed to assist them."
"Yes. I see. We heard there was a new militia in County Barley. How did they fare against the invaders?"
"Barleyfolk, for all their quiet ways, are natural fighters when they are put to it, Lord. They fought for their homes with honor and spirit, though hopelessly outnumbered and outclassed by the disciplined Redvests. The fight was brief but decisive, and Tracia holds all of Barley, including the fortress of Tulith Attis and the remains of the bridge in Passdale, which we set afire to hinder them. Many escaped to Janhaven. Our forces hold the roads and passes to Janhaven, and the Redvests have been denied that place. So far."
"That agrees with what has been reported to me. Furaman's stockade would be a plum worth picking, if the Redvests could manage it. But I have had other reports, too, of strange goings on at the fortress, where Collandoth had taken up. And then there's the Bell."
"Did you hear it, sir?" Robby asked cautiously.
"As I sat in this chair, it shook this tower and every wall and every stone of this hall," Tallin said. "Three times it tolled, each toll mightier than the last. See that portrait over there, on the floor, leaning against the wall?"
It was a large portrait of a robed Elifaen standing behind a table spread with scrolls and drawings. In one hand he held a divider and the other rested upon the table, holding down a large sheet that was spread out among inkwells, straight edges, other compasses and dividers. The other curled end of the sheet was held down by a sword.
"It is a portrait of Heneil. It still rests where it fell from its hook on the wall above, brought down by the third mighty toll. Do you know the story of Tulith Attis?"
"Somewhat."
Tallin eyed Robby closely, but Robby said no more, unwilling to let the wine loosen his tongue.
"I see you wear the ring of the Queen and Lady of Vanara," Tallin abruptly turned to Ullin. "Is she now in Glareth?"
"Yes, Lord. It was my honor to prepare the way for her," Ullin stated simply.
Tallin nodded.
"And you now act as guide for this journey westward?"
"Yes."
"How do you mean to go from here?"
"We have not decided on a path as yet. Either back through Hill Town or else straight on west through the territories of the Damar."
Tallin rose and walked onto the balcony. Ullin and Robby immediately stood, too. They watched Tallin gaze out from the balcony for a moment, the wind tossing his light hair and tugging his caped cloak.
"My words were true," he said. "You cannot obtain help from the west."
"Yet we are determined to try," Robby said. Tallin turned and looked at Robby.
"I know something of the determination of Barleymen," he said, and Robby saw the painful turn of a smile on his lips. "And if you take after your father, beware the man who tries to stop you! He may lose more than he bargained for."
"Sir. I do take after my father, but equally after my mother, in what ways a man might. I mean to do what I can for my people, even if the obstacles are many and great. If there is help to be brought back from the west, I shall do so. If there is none ready, I shall try to build some. If I come back, I will not be alone."
"Hm. And do you stand by your cousin?" Tallin asked Ullin.
"In all that he says, with my heart and with my sword," returned Ullin.
"Yet your sword and your allegiance belong to another."
"I believe they serve one and the same. And, anyway, the hand that wields the sword and the heart that holds faith are both my own."
"I see."
Tallin's expression softened as a deep weariness passed over his demeanor. Some of the haughtiness left his stance.
"I believe what you say, young Robby. When your father came to me for Mirabella's hand, I tested him severely. And I was made the fool! I will not be the fool again and test you likewise, yet I perceive that if you fail, much more may be lost than one man's daughter. Look yonder! Thereby is your path westward, between yon two mountains. The way takes you through Damar lands, but it is not so often patrolled. Dargul here will give you a pass to travel in case you are stopped. We cannot vouch for the safety it might bring. Lang Cartu is the current warlord holding sway over the Damar, but he is capricious and prone to bribery. So you must be wary. Some of the Damar are undisciplined, no more than mercenaries, and they often disobey their masters. Others are professional and well-trained, zealous in their loyalty to Cartu. Avoid crossing them if you encounter them. But if you must, show no mercy and hide the bodies. Once you make it through the passes, and cross the bridge at Redwater Gorge, you can turn northwest through the last of the mountains and then be out of Damar territories once you cross the Missenflo River."
"We have not decided a route," Robby said. "But we will consider that one. We may go back the way of Hill Town, if the west road from there seems better to us."
"So be it. Whichever way you deem best. I would like to ask that you carry a letter to the King. It is already prepared," Tallin said as Dargul got up and retrieved a packet from the desk. The letter was not yet folded and Dargul held it out for Robby to see. "This is asking much of you, and so you should know its contents."
"I would be happy to carry it," Robby said.
Tallin looked hard at Robby. Dargul glanced at Tallin as Robby read the letter, but Robby's expression did not change when he handed it to Ullin to read. The letter put forth the situation in the Eastlands most frankly, giving estimates of the Redvest forces, the areas it had invaded and captured, and assessments of the movements of its armies. Tallin pleaded with Duinnor for assistance and promised dire consequences if an army was not raised and put into position by springtime to face the enemy.
"I'm not sure you realize, young sir," said Dargul, "that if you are caught with this letter, by the Damar or others, it would be your death warrant."
"I do understand," Robby replied. "If we are captured or if capture is threatened, it will be destroyed. I will carry your news with me and will impart your message myself if no better courier can be found."
"Pardon me for saying so," Tallin said with a slight smile, "but I do not think you have the credentials to beg an audience with the King himself."
"I assure you, sir," Robby stated, "that, if I enter Duinnor, the King will not only hear your cry, but will heed your words. You may presume that, should I reach Duinnor, the King has received your message."
"You speak as if you held the authority to..."
He stopped, his amused smile completely vanished, and his eyes narrowed. Then he looked at Ullin who gave a slow silent nod.
"I sense that you go west with another burden, or secret, that is of far greater urgency than my letter could ever have," Tallin said slowly, speaking carefully. "And I believe I now am gaining an inkling of what is truly afoot."
Tallin turned away and went slowly back to the balcony doorway and gazed to the northwest. When he spoke, he did not turn around.
"You hide your true reasons for going west, Robby Ribbon. You have spoken little of other events, and you have not offered your version of the night the Great Bell of Tulith Attis rang. Your companion, the Kingsman, wears upon his finger the ring of the Lady of Vanara. And you yourself have a token of the most ancient days wrapped about your waist. You were born in secret of me and raised apart from this house, one long watched by Duinnor. And by others, I am sure. And tonight you are to meet with one whose name I dare not even breathe, for fear of upsetting the world."
Now he turned around to face them. A breeze puffed in behind him, pushing his long cape around him, and his face was dark against the bright blue sky behind him. In the contrast, Robby could see no expression, but he felt his grandfather's eyes upon him.
"These things are not without meaning to me. Indeed, my fear only grows with the realizing of them. Do not think because I am an old man, removed from what little family he has left, and do not travel from this valley, that I do not have it in my power to know the happenings of the world. Long have I puzzled over them, just as I have gathered ancient books and writings to chew upon, compelled by the sense that the fate of my House is tangled deep within the strands of too many powers, like so many strands of a net. Dreams, strange and without interpretation, have come to me these last years. Signs, I am told, are being seen in the world, in the heavens, and upon the waters of the sea."
Tallin spoke slowly, deliberately, almost as if speaking to himself.
"Yet only now, only at this very moment, as I stand here, do I put together the puzzle of the years," he said. "Of unspoken words, unfulfilled promise, and unseen actions. Of unnamed children."
Robby's heart thudded at this last statement.
"Yes," Tallin went on, "the evidence is all around for those with eyes, if we only look. Even though many pieces may be hidden from me, there is enough for me to see what form the days to come will take. The Hidden One will soon come to power. This age will end, and soon the world will be broken and remade. If these times are upon us, and the prophecies of our forebears are come into life at last, then dark days indeed are upon us. Yes. I see," he nodded, bowing his head. "I see what my children knew, and what my sons carried with them to the next world. My house of Men is thrown down, and there is arisen from it, as the fabled bird from ashes, a new House, to be blessed among both Men and Elifaen. For the blood of your mother and your mother's mother is true within you. Yes," he sighed, still nodding his head. "I know my way, now, and the way of my people. No help will come. And these walls will not stand if weakened by my continued doubt and indecision. Too long have I renounced any action in the world beyond this valley. But if I cannot put off the ending of this age, I may at least shape the making of the next. If only I may bring myself to do it, and lead my people into doom."
He came and knelt before Robby who stiffened in surprise at this gesture.
"I swear this oath to you: I will purchase time for you," Lord Tallin stated with fire in his eyes. "I can give you three months that you did not have, and perhaps more if we are favored."
"Sir, I don't understand. What do you mean?"
Ullin touched Robby's elbow, interrupting him, and he said to Lord Tallin.
"No one can know, Grandfather. Even Robby does not fully comprehend what has come upon him."
"Indeed," Tallin said, rising. "What greater shock can there be? I have reason enough to do what I must," he held out his hand for the letter, and Ullin gave it back to him. Tallin took it, smiling, and threw it into the fireplace. Dargul stepped forward in surprise, and Tallin laughed at him.
"Consider it delivered, Dargul! Hard questions are now before me, and they must be answered. Tallinvale must go one way or the other. Balance is no longer possible. No, old friend, do not at this moment ask my meaning. I speak more to myself than to you."
He turned back to Robby and Ullin.
"Pray tell Ashlord that I wish to see him, once he has rested, and that I desire that he call upon me as soon as he may. Please excuse me for now, my lord."
With that, Tallin bowed low to Robby, and strode from the room. Dargul remained, staring at the door through which Tallin had departed.
"I beg your pardon," he said to Ullin and Robby, "but what has just happened here?"
"I cannot...," Robby began, then faltered.
"It is not for us to say," Ullin said. "Let Lord Tallin say to you what he will and in his own time and way. And, I beg of you, do not press him too much on these matters."
"Well," Dargul stepped to the door and glanced down the hall, "can you tell me why he knelt? Why he addressed you so?"
"By his gesture, he does me a great honor," said Robby. "One of greater affection than could ever be expected, under the circumstances."
"I see. Well, then," Dargul said, unsatisfied. He looked at the two, from one to the other, with a slight frown.
"I believe I should accompany you to your rooms," he said at last. "This way if you please."
"I know the way to my own," Ullin said, "but perhaps you may ask one of the household to lead Robby to his. I'm sure you wish to wait upon Lord Tallin."
Dargul nodded and tugged a bell rope.
"How does he mean to buy us time?" Robby asked. "What does he mean by that?"
"I am not sure," Ullin said.
"He is a close one, your grandfather," said Dargul to Robby. "And though I have been with him for many years, I hardly know his thoughts." As they passed out into the hallway, Dargul said to Ullin, "I was very sorry about your rather cool reception earlier. But now, well, perhaps his heart thaws somewhat. My hopes have always been that time would heal some of the pain between you two."
"It has, kind sir. Somewhat." Ullin took Dargul's hand. "I am most happy to know you are still at his side. He will need your counsel now more than ever before. And if I know my grandfather, a plan is already forming in his mind."
"I will do my utmost to help him in all he asks of me," Dargul said, "even though he does not confide in me as much as I would wish. He is a stern man, and cool, but I knew him from an early age and know some part of his past. For all his hardness and distance, there is no man better with compassion and care for his own people when it comes to it. That may be difficult for members of his family to believe, since all are estranged from him. Perhaps he makes up for the love he has lost from his family by giving it to his duty, to his people and their lands. Still, it's a great shame such misunderstandings of passion have come between you and him, and between him and his daughter. But this conversation just now...it is a riddle to me."
Ullin sighed, taking Dargul by the elbow, saying, "I am sworn to say nothing. That we mean to go to Duinnor is no secret. However, we mean to take an unusual route, and by going the long way, to accomplish sooner what might not otherwise be accomplished by taking the short way."
"More riddles!"
Ullin shook his head.
"I am sorry if it sounds so. But if ever my grandfather asks for your advice, give it as you always have, with honesty and wisdom. And if ever he utters a strange command, I beg that you carry it out without question. He may indeed be stern and cool, even secretive, but he is the most cunning man I have ever known, and wise in his own close way."
Ullin looked down the hall where Lord Tallin had disappeared around a corner.
"Yet I fear for him. Now he faces a grave decision, upon which all our fates may rest. I do not fear the wisdom of the choice he will make, only its price. You should be with him. And this I will tell you: He may seem to have lost his love of family, what is left of it, and their love in return, but I know better. And I, for one, will forever love my grandfather."
"I am glad to hear it," said Dargul as a young girl appeared and curtseyed. "Ah, will you please see our guest to his room? I hope to see you later, Lord Robby."
"Thank you, sir. Ullin?"
"Oh, I'm sure Windard has your rooms already prepared for you," Dargul said to Ullin.
"I'm sure. Thank you," Ullin replied as Dargul walked on down the hall. "And I'll see you after a while, Robby."
They all parted their own ways, with Robby following the girl to a narrow winding staircase that descended steeply. Ullin watched him disappear downward, and then he walked away, smiling at the thought of sleeping in his old bed. And he was surprised that he already felt so at home in a place he had not even seen for many, many years.