The Fallen (Book 1) Read Online Free Page B

King’s Captain, you will stay here! Assuming they’re on schedule, it would be very difficult to reach them before they pass Three Ways.  I’ll send Borgulnay with a few specially chosen soldiers to meet them. He’s the fastest and most likely to reach the barge before it comes to Three Ways. You’re not going.’
    Kelian rose from his chair, his face red with anger. His father left the room, taking several minutes to speak to one of the castle servants before returning to face his son. ‘I will send Borgulnay to attempt to intercept them before they reach Three Ways,’ he repeated. ‘Araas, Timbul, I need to know why the fallen are camped on our land. I cannot allow them to remain. The fallen have no regard for human life. They take children for slaves, an appalling crime. Perhaps rumor has exaggerated their reputation but I’ve heard tales of murder, torture, burnings and starvation.’ He paused again as Borgulnay appeared in the doorway. ‘Kelian, please explain the situation to our King’s Captain.’ He turned once again to Araas and Timbul. ‘I know that you both know more of the fallen than you are willing to share. I must protect my people. I must know why they’re moving east and what they’re searching for.’
    Timbul and Araas exchanged glances. Both faces were strangely closed. Finally Timbul spoke. ‘Then your Majesty, you must speak to our Father.’
    ‘ I have known you both all my life, and no greater friends could we have. There have even been times when our people have fought beside yours, when you have come to our aid in defense of our borders, yet I don’t know your father and I know very little of your people. I need to know more. It’s strange. We have always called your people the Daoine Maithe, but that is all I know of you. That you are good people.’
    ‘ You need to travel to the Province of the Guardians. Our father will help you, Majesty,’ said Araas.
    Dannicus folded his arms . ‘I will prepare to travel tomorrow. You’ll go after my son and protect him?’
    ‘ He’s going with Borgulnay?’ Araas didn’t look at all surprised.
    ‘ I’m certain he’ll do everything in his power to go, regardless of what I say.’ The King sighed resignedly. ‘Short of having him confined to the dungeon there’s little I seem to be able to do to stop him.’
    ‘ Of course we’ll protect him. As is our duty,’ Timbul confirmed.
    Dannicus walked out onto the small balcony overlooking the castle gardens. He was yet to breakfast. He turned to the servant standing motionlessly next to the doorway. ‘Send for the Princess Elizabeth and Duke Li, and ask the Duke to bring his Squire. And please ask my Queen to join us. Then arrange for breakfast. Here on the balcony will be fine.’ The servant bobbed his head and scurried away. King Dannicus turned towards a large cushioned armchair tucked away in a corner of the room.
    ‘ Eijelin, you and your partner in mischief may come out of hiding.’
    Eijelin eased herself from her uncomfortable hiding place and was followed by a boy of about nine years of age. Eijelin ran to her father and threw herself upon him whilst the little boy stood aside patiently.
    ‘ Elliot, you mustn’t be led by our mischievous little possum who needs more discipline,’ said the King, his eyes twinkling as he knelt and hugged his daughter. The little girl stole the hearts of all, but none more than her devoted father.
    ‘ Your Majesty,’ Elliot looked the King squarely in the eye, ‘please don’t blame Eijelin. It was my idea to come in here.’ This was so obviously a lie that even Eijelin burst out laughing.
    ‘ Elliot, I told you that if you didn’t come with me I wouldn’t help you to climb the-’ She broke off and flushed red as King Dannicus shook his head in disbelief. He turned back to where Jaralina remained seated only to find her fast asleep.
    ‘ Timbul,’ he said, ‘if you would take the Lady Jaralina somewhere comfortable.’ Timbul