The Silvering of Loran Read Online Free Page B

soldier guards recruited for this event stood uncomfortably restrained in the crowds and jolted with any loud noise nearby; sudden laughter or a dropped wine glass had the same effect on them as a battle cry from an unseen adversary. At least they resisted the urge to draw their swords.
    The crowded room resonated with sincere congratulatory wishes that reflected the affection the subjects of the eight provinces had for Gilvius, and by extension, all of the Avileen family. Gilvius stood to address the gathering and the many conversations that filled the room quickly fell silent.
    “I and my sons, Rolam and Gervest, want to thank all of you for being with us tonight,” he began with humility. “As you all know, at sixteen a young boy enters the path of manhood, an event to be celebrated. The pouches on the tables throughout the room represent obligation and trust. In each bag are two coins—a silver kranista, which is our coin of least value, and a golden sonyee , which holds the greatest value.”
    Subtle gasps and whispers rippled through the gathering. The golden sonyee’s value was approximately six-month’s earnings for many workers in the provinces and rarely traded, or even seen, due to its great worth.
    “They share the pouch that contains them in harmony,” he continued. “My sons and I pledge that the future of the Avileen sovereignty will continue to be guided by both temperance and generosity in all matters.”
    Exuberance filled the crowd as they applauded. Many among them shook their heads in approval of his words.
    Gilvius raised a hand to silence the applause.
    “Rondros Avileen, my grandfather, also made a pledge to this land, and in doing so, brought stability to a realm diseased with hate and turmoil, where the strong consumed the weak. And although war between eight of the provinces is no more, we will continue to complete my grandfather’s dream to unite all of the provinces and end all war in our land.”
    Raucous applause filled the crowd. When the noise tempered, Gilvius continued.
    “I ask that all of you accept a pouch in commemoration of the bonds we hold to each other, and use the wealth contained within, wisely, to the benefit of your province.”
    Gilvius retook his seat and the gathered assembly began to collect pouches distributed by the castle guards—amid murmurs about their generous and wise sovereign.
    * * *
    J ust outside the rear castle gate, various tents populated the spacious cropped grounds. Performers entranced the crowds with juggling skills and other feats of nimbleness. Displayed and sampled were varieties of food from all of the provinces. There was the feel of Carnival, but with greater intimacy and purpose.
    Loran and her mother, Leanna—a forty year-old woman of startling beauty and pale blue eyes, whose long blond hair kissed the small of her back—sampled some food from the wooden table before them.
    Loran noticed Topen a few yards away seated in a tall chair near a tent, brightly illuminated by neighboring torches. A portion of the regions finest wine filled the glass he held. For the first time since arriving, he was without his cloak. Around each of his wrists, he wore a wide silver bracelet with raised symbols. Loran thought they were far too ornate for battle and guessed they must be ornamental, worn for the festivities.
    “He seems so distant from everyone,” said Loran.
    “Who are you speaking of, dear?” Leanna replied and looked up from the table.
    “Topen,” said Loran. She motioned with her hand in his direction.
    Leanna identified Topen nearby. Seeing him made her eager to begin the ceremony her sons were about to embark on tomorrow. She would also no longer have to keep secrets from her children—which has been one of the few contentious issues she has had with Gilvius.
    “And, how is it you know Topen?” questioned Leanna, when she realized her daughter’s casual utterance of his name.
    “I saw him with Kelamar,” Loran replied, without