Prelude - part 2

The ceremony lasted three hours as the last rites were performed and prayers were said for a swift return to the next life in the great Cycle. By the end Daxon was leaning heavily on his cane and was grateful for being able to move as the crowd dispersed quietly, thoughts of their own ends circling through their own minds. Daxon had larger concerns on his though, like the fate of the province now that there was no clear heir. No doubt when the delegate did arrive the bickering between nobles would start in earnest. He had been thankful that none had yet to approach him in private to solicit his loyalty. He felt his hand press against Bolin’s shoulder indicating that the man had stopped and silently cursed his luck under his breath.

“Sir, it’s lord Samald. He wishes to have a word with you.” Bolin said quietly.

Daxon nodded his head. No doubt he would try to sway Daxon’s loyalty towards his house.

“Captain Daxon!” Lord Samald declared loudly, enough so that the other nobles could hear who were passing them by. No doubt to cause them to wonder what Daxon would do. Samald then lowered his voice to a more conversational level. “May I be the first to commend you on the excellent job you’ve done keeping the city safe during these trying times.”

Daxon could feel the man’s grin even without seeing it. It was in the tone of his voice. Daxon sighed loudly before responding. “I’m just doing my duty to the province milord, and Bolin here is the new captain, it is he who you should give your praise to.” He stated flatly before waving his cane in front of him and moving forward. He felt a large hand grab his arm.

“But it is you who holds the loyalty of the guard. It is not a position to be taken lightly. I may be the first to approach you, but by no means will I be the last.” Lord Samald’s voice dropped to a low, menacing whisper. “Choose your friends carefully Daxon.” Then Daxon felt the hand let go and heard Bolin nearly fall as lord Samald pushed his way past him.

Daxon quickly reached out and as soon as Bolin was near enough, grabbed onto the man’s shirt. “Bolin, listen to me carefully. You need to be strong in the coming days. Those who fail to sway me may come to you, seeing you as an easier target. We must see that the city guards do not become involved in the succession. No matter what Bolin, you hear me, no matter what is offered or promised. Delegate Ashandel will take control when he arrives, and then it will be up to him and the other nobles to decide who will be the next baron.”

“Yes sir, no involvement.” Bolin said, his voice shaking a bit. Daxon briefly wondered if it was fear from Daxon’s vehemence, or if someone had already spoken with him.

Daxon let go of him. “Good, now take me to my rooms, I am tired and you have business to attend to.”

“Yes sir.” Bolin answered and began to guide Daxon out of the catacombs and into the Inner District towards the guard tower where his office and quarter’s were. Though soon they would pass to Bolin and Daxon would be forced to find other quarters and form of revenue. Bolin had already suggested that he stay to train the new recruits. He had considered it, but training some wet behind the ears boys to become guards held no favor in Daxon’s heart.