The Lightbearer's Gift

Chapter 26 The War Part 1

I sat on a luxurious chair in the room Clarissa and I used for the night. It was three days later, and I had just completed the spell circuit. Clarissa smoked a pipe while lounging nude on the bed, watching me cast.

I had tried it once, but I didn't really enjoy it. The sweet-smelling smoke that wafted about the room was pleasant, so I didn't tell her to stop. I charged the circuit and cast the spell, targeting myself. There was a flash of warmth all over my body as the radiant carapace took form, then quickly faded. It took me around 15 seconds to cast so I wasn’t near mastery. Fortunately, I really only needed to cast it once a day. Since I didn't need to maintain a spell for the shield to remain active, I glanced at it within the ether.

While it was usually invisible, from within the ether, I could see the thin blue barrier floating above my skin. I was fascinated as it moved and warped as I moved.

“Fascinating.” I said aloud.

“Did you, do it?” She asked. She was watching me for hours at this point and looked rather bored. If we weren't having sex or discussing the business, Clarissa and I had little in common.

“Yes, the casting was successful.” Looking at the remains of our supper from the night and noted the knife then said.

“Throw that knife at me.”

I stood up and walked to the edge of the bed so she would have a better target. She had a skill with throwing, so this would be an excellent test.

She looked dubious and asked, “Are you sure?”

Granted I was standing at the edge of the bed with no clothes on, so her doubt was expected.

“Yes, you can't harm me.” she smirked and took it as a challenge.

She picked up the small paring knife and aimed for a leg. There was a loud ping as the blade made contact with the shield and a slight ripple traveled out from the point of contact.

The faint push I felt on my left confirmed one thing. I didn't absorb the kinetic energy from an attack. It instead distributed it over my body. That would mean if I got hit by something powerful that didn't break the shield I would be flung from my feet. Something like a fireball or the concentrated air blast would be rather unpleasant but survivable if I overcast the spell to strengthen the shield.

“Wow that seems incredibly useful” she got off the bed and walked around me attempting to see the barrier. Then she slowly poked a finger through and made contact with skin. With a bit of confusion on her face.

“Has to be slightly permeable otherwise I couldn't breathe. Would you like me to cast it on you? It will last most of the day.”

She hesitated for a moment then said “Ok.”

I created the spell circuit, gave it a slight overcharge, and cast the shield on her. It snapped into existence with a slight gold ripple then disappeared. She flinched and started looking over her arms and legs as if she would notice something.

“Ready?” I said as I picked up the same knife.

“I’m always ready for you Moon.” she said with a seductive smile.

I grinned and flicked the knife at her. I didn’t actually hit her with the blade, but the knife bounced away just the same.

Clarissa grinned with excitement and asked.

“Can it block magic?”

“There is only one way to find out.” I said, matching her smile as I began casting a radiant bolt and took aim at her chest. I made it as weak as possible to not scare her.

“Ready?”

“Ready.” She said with the faintest tremble in her voice.

That was to be expected. She was standing in front of me completely nude so even the weakest radiant bolt would still leave severe burns. I released the spell. It flew across the room and connected with the shield. It was blocked and the energy of the spell dissipated into the surrounding air.

Clarissa had closed her eyes and after realizing she was unharmed opened them.

“Magic really is something. You said it would last most of the day?”

“Yes” I cast another one at her that also splattered off the shield.

She jumped and with a laugh in her voice said. “That was mean.”

I chuckled and said. “My apologies.”

She got on the bed and said in a low voice. “How about you come over here and make it up to me.”

I grinned and was about to join her, then a knock at the door interrupted. I threw on a robe and Clarissa covered herself in sheets then I shouted.

“Enter.”

One of the working girls came in and handed me an envelope.

“I think it’s from the Baron Sir Mage.” I gave her a nod and motioned for her to leave.

I sat down back on the chair and examined the elope. It was a dark blue with a wax holding it closed. It was stamped with the baron’s seal. I broke the seal and began reading the letter inside.

“

Sir Moon,

I cordially invite you to brunch and high hour. In attendance will be myself Baron Carles Vernon III along with Sir Denerim, Lady Lira, and Lord Renner. Simply present this letter to my Gate Guards as they have been instructed to escort you to my keep so as not to cause you any unneeded delay. Sten Barlow, your mercenary captain has been invited to attend as well.

Sincerely,

Baron Carles Vernon III

”

“That’s in 3 hours.” Clarissa said as she read the letter from over my shoulder.

“Best I start preparing. tell Lian to gather a bath for me.” I said I looked at the books sitting on the chair. Clarissa poked her head out the door and started to shout orders to someone.

I had memorized the entirety of their contents at this point, so they were of little use to me. I don’t know if Denerim knew either of those spells but if he didn’t, I’m sure he would pay good coin for them.

As soon as that thought entered my mind. I picked up both books and tossed them into the fireplace. It wasn’t currently lit so I cast a stream of fire on them until they were little more than ashes.

“Did those not cost 700 gelding?” Clarissa said in horror as I cut off the spell.

“I have them memorized the only use they have would be the coin I could get from selling them.”

“Why not sell them then even half price is good coin.” Clarissa said as if I made no sense.

“There are only 2 other light mages in the city Denerim and the man who works the temples. As far as I’m concerned, they’re competitors.”

She gave me a curious look and glanced at her hands and the knife lying on the floor.

“Ahh, I see it wouldn’t do to empower your rivals. Could the baron not command you to teach Denerim.” She said,

“He could try, and I would refuse. I doubt he would force the issue.”

“What if he does? Would keeping the magic be worth risking your life or whatever position you could get out of it?”

“If I bend to his will once then he will try again and again. If he wants something like that from me then the cost would likely be something he couldn’t afford.”

“I see, come then let's make you presentable.” She said,

I walked to the gate of the upper city before leaving, I massively overcharged the radiant carapace to the point where I’m sure it could block a fully charged fireball. I was quite confident that nothing would be able to harm me. The guardsmen immediately recognized me and called me over.

“Sir mage I have a carriage waiting for you.”

He didn’t even ask to see the letter, but it wasn’t as if there were any other elves of my description within the city. A luxurious carriage was sitting to the side of the gate and a well-dressed servant opened the door to allow me inside.

I had dressed in a new close fitting, white shirt, and pants, with an overcoat lined with purple. It looked expensive enough for any noble but was less ostentatious than the outfit I wore to the auction. Though I kept the jewelry and hair style.

We were halfway through the upper city when I looked up at the sun. I was likely going to arrive a few minutes late. We passed through the gate to the barons' keep without any delay. The carriage drew to a halt and the door opened. A well-dressed servant in the Barons livery and colors, a combination of reds and blues, opened the door to the carriage. I exited, and the servant said,

“My lord, if you would follow me to the gardens the Barons and his guests are waiting for your arrival.”

“Lead the way” I said.

We passed through the well decorated keep, and I admired the ornate arms and armor that adored the halls. A few wandering nobles gave me curious glances as I passed but did not seem interested in stopping me.

We eventually exited a side door to a garden so opulent it made Sarah’s look miserly by comparison. There were fountains and trees, a massive sculpture of a woman in hilariously impractical armor. We followed a stone path to the center; there was a large gazebo where a round table large enough to seat 12 people, stocked with enough food for 20. The Baron and everyone else was at the table in conversation as I arrived.

“My I present Sir Moon” The Servant announced. All eyes turned to see me.

“I was beginning to wonder if you were ever going to arrive Moon.” The baron said as he stood to greet me. I walked over and shook his hand.

“I wouldn’t dream of its Lord Baron. Your message came when I was indisposed. “I said.

“No need to placate me Moon, I know how lovely Gardenia’s girls are.”

“Come have a seat, enjoy the food and drink, we were just getting into the real conversation.” He said as he sat back in his seat. The plate in front of him was piled high with food. I nodded to Sten, Lord Renner, and the Baron’s 3 personal mages Denerim, Lira, and her brother.

I sat down next between Sten and Martin. The baron to a bite of a roasted chicken leg, completely devoid of any kind of noble decorum.

“As I was saying, Archduke Halloway has ruled in my favor and has agreed that Baron Suncrest’s actions are indeed worthy of a Casus Belli. He has given me permission to openly declare war. Notices have been sent to all my vassals to begin levying their troops and gathering conscripts. I intend to take his barony for myself.”

The baron downed the rest of the wine in his glass and a servant quickly moved to refill it. Everyone was stunned silent as the baron let that sink in for a moment. That begged the question as to why we were here and not his generals or commanders.

“How is Suncrest reacting to this?” Martin asked.

“He was incensed, while he could muster a larger army, he lacked both magical power and a component command structure.”

Sten, who was quite up to this point, said. “May I speak lord baron.”

The baron scoffed and said. “If you have something to say, just say it Sten I don’t care to stand in ceremony.”

Sten nodded and asked. “What are his projected troop numbers?”

“Between 10,000 and 12,000 we are somewhere between 9,000 and 10,000.” The baron explained. As soon as he finished Martin added.

“So, at best it's an even fight, at worst we're outnumbered by 3000.”

Lira Scoffed and said, “Just put me on the left flank and a few thousand extra conscripts would mean little.”

“That’s what I like to hear Lira.” The Baron said with a smile.

“It will be two or three months before we can fully assemble. Conscripts need to be trained and soldiers fully equipped with battle-ready armor. Supply lines need to be established. Everything is already underway.”

The baron said as he tore the thigh of a whole roasted chicken and took a bite.

“Why would you need Moon and I here Lord Baron.” Sten said.

“I am in need of competent commanders. I’ve seen the effectiveness of your company even before Moon and I know of your military history. I wish for you to take a company of soldiers under your command and train them to proper standards then lead them in battle.”

Sten was about to say something, but the Baron held up a hand to stop the rebuttal.

“I do not intend to simply reward you with coin. When I conquer Suncrest I will need new Lords to hold these lands. I will name you Lord Barlow with your own lands and vassals. These lands will be inherited by your daughters and their children.”

Sten looked stunned at the offer. The mention of becoming a lord of his own lands and his daughters inheriting these lands had to be planned. If there was one way to get to Sten, that was it. A small smirk came over the baron’s face as Sten settled into contemplation.

“Moon, I hear your healing abilities far surpasses that of a normal light mage. Repairing joints, torn ligaments and tendons to full health are within your skills, yes.” He asked.

“Yes, there is very little I cannot heal. I would have to examine your injuries to determine a specific time period.”

“What would you want for both this service and your service in the war.” The baron asked. As much as I don’t care for fighting in a war, outright refusing the baron in his seat of power would be foolish.

“What specific services would you require during the preparation and during the war.” I asked.

“Along with my healing, I would require you to heal a number of my top lieutenants, some have serious injuries, and I want them back on the field. During the war, your responsibilities will largely be healing and defense. Using your shield to block enemy artillery on important positions and supporting any sorties we launch with magical power. As much as I want to leverage our mages magic, a single arrow could mean death without support.”

I locked on to that last statement, which would have to mean that Denerim doesn’t know the radiant carapace spell. It would eventually get out that I knew it anyway so best to do it here where I can leverage it. Keeping it a secret until the battle started would likely just irritate the baron since he couldn’t factor it into his plans.

“A stray arrow is something none of the mages would have to worry about.” I said.

“What do you mean? “The baron asked.

“A spell called Radiant Carapace it creates an invisible shield above the skin not anywhere near as strong or efficient as a static shield but arrows or any low powered projectile magic doesn’t have a hope of breaking it.” I let that sink for a second and Denerim sat up in his chair for the first time interested in the conversation.

“I have it casted on myself right now. I would be willing to demonstrate.” Every mage was looking at me within the ether, likely confirming my words. The baron looked over to Denerim and he gave him an almost imperceptible nod.

“I would be more than happy to see such a demonstration. ERIC COME OVER HERE FOR A MOMENT” a guard carrying a crossbow sprinted across the grass at the baron’s summons.

“Yes, My Lord, it’s time to put your skills to use.”

While he was talking, I got up from my seat and stood about 10 feet away.

“Just loose the bolt him My Lord? What if I hurt him My Lord?” Eric said.

“Not to worry, he’s agreed to it.”

He looked at me then at the baron then took aim and fired a bolt at my leg. There was a loud ping as the bolt bounced and fell to the ground. I felt a slight push in my thigh.

“Come now I thought you would have a better aim than that.” I said.

He looked stunned as he stared at the bolt. Cocked another and fired at my chest each bolt simply ricocheted off landing in the grass. Lira cast a firebolt at me and it splattered off my shield with no difficulty.

“Well that confirms your words, Moon. This is going to require much contemplation.” The baron said.

“How did you come upon such a spell?” Denerim asked as I retook my seat.

“I won a grimoire at the auction. It only took me two days to learn the spell.” I said smugly.

“And the grimoire?” Denerim asked, finally showing some emotion.

“The darndest thing happened. I accidentally dropped it into a fireplace.” I said. Lina chucked and Denerim sniffed and my obvious lie.

The baron looked amused if anything. I wanted it to be clear that I wouldn’t be sharing that spell with anyone else.

“Mages” the baron said to himself with an exasperated sigh and continued to speak.

“Very good. Onto your requests. What would you like as a payment for the preparation phase of the war? I would offer you lands but most humans would not like being ruled by an Elf. Perhaps property within the upper city and a healthy daily commission.”

I thought about it for a moment thinking carefully on what I should request. He was asking for a lot of work on my part. The house was nice, but I don’t intend to stay in Vernon forever. I would need something that would always be useful anywhere I go. Then the thought struck me.

“The Mason’s Bank. I would like your recommendation so I can establish an account. As of payment I will accept. 40 gold per day until preparations are finished. After your army has been assembled contract negotiations with Sten and the bronze Spears will of course take precedence. For this I will ensure that every Lieutenant, every Commander, every Officer, or anyone of significance you require is in peak physical condition for the upcoming battles. And as for your personal healing I will guarantee that by the end of these 3 months you will be able to fight like a man 10 years your junior.”

The baron sat down, and a serious expression came over his features. At the end of these 3 months, I would have 3260 gelding to my name assuming we agreed. And an account with the bank would ensure that I am able to keep track of it.

“You say you can guarantee I can fight as if I was a young man again?” He seemed to not even care about the coin or the recommendation.

“Yes.” I said. fully confident in my ability to deliver.

“And how exactly can you perform this healing using human magic? I do not care how powerful you are, it simply cannot be done.” Denerim said, sounding agitated.

“It’s rather simple. I use a combination of human and elven magic. Human magic to power the healing and elven magic to guide it.” I said fully expecting that I would be called out on this at some point.

“And how can an elf who’s memories span a few months use such magic.” Sten stiffened as Denerim announced this.

It was fortunate that so few people understood elven magic so coming up with a lie wasn’t difficult. “It’s because elven magic is more instinctual than human magic.” He squinted at me not believing my explanation.

“We guide the ether to do what we want instead of commanding it with spell circuits.” I said.

“And you simply remembered how to do this?” he sounded incredulous.

“A master of the sword loses all of his memories and after a few weeks he stumbles upon a blade lying in the grass. Out of a bush comes a bandit rushing to kill him. Who will win?” I said.

“The bandit wouldn’t stand a chance.” The baron said. I purposely chose something to which he could relate.

“Indeed Lord Baron. As soon as I touched the ether my skills slowly returned, skills that I had clearly mastered at some point in my life.” I lied shamelessly.

Denerim didn’t seem convinced but what could he say to refute my claim? It is not as if he knew how elven healing worked and the only other elf in the city certainly wouldn’t humor his inquiries.

“Well, Denerim?” the baron asked. He said nothing in response so that pretty much ended whatever he was trying to do.

“Very well Moon, I’ll recommend you to the bank. I'm sure they wouldn’t turn down a mage of your strength. Let us call it 3,600 payable to your account. We will split your efforts 4 hours a day spent healing my injuries and another 4 healing those of the upper command as well as anyone else I bring to you. I will arrange a room for you within the guest wing of my keep so you will not have to waste time traveling from the lower city. A servant will be assigned to you for anything you need during this time. Agreed?”

“Agreed.” I said.

“Very good, I would like you to get started immediately.” He turned his attention to Eric and said.

“Bring Moon to Captain Ambrose for a demonstration of his healing ability. I’m sure once he experiences it, he will know what to do. Make sure to inform him it is under my command.”

Eric saluted, crossing his fist across his chest, and said. “Yes Lord Baron.”

He came over to me and said, “Please follow me Sir Mage.”

“We will sort out the rest by the end of the day.” The baron said to me,

“Very well Lord Baron. Good day to you all.” I said as I turned to leave.

I followed Eric through the halls of the keep to an office. Eric knocked on the large iron door and a man inside shouted “Enter.”

The office was entirely utilitarian. No decorations adorned the walls, the spines on each book on his shelves were cracked showing he actually read them. He didn’t even look up from his writing.

“Captain by the Lord Baron’s Orders you are instructed to have Sir Moon perform healing on you to verify his abilities. You have his discretion on how to properly utilize his abilities for the upcoming war effort. I believe he wants to prioritize the upper command first.” Eric announced in a single breath.

The captain finally stopped writing and looked up and met my eyes.

“And what kind of healing can you provide that any other mage can’t.” He stared at me intently.

He was a large bald man in a suit of armor polished to a mirror shine. He had an impeccably trimmed brown beard and piercing blue eyes. As soon as I entered the room, I noticed the crutches leaning against the wall on one side of the room. So, this is what I had to heal. This was likely a test from the baron to see if I could actually do what I said.

“The type of healing that will get you back on your feet.” I said.

“You say this is under the Baron’s Orders Eric.” Ambrose asked.

“Yes, Captain. He specifically said that I should let you know this is an order.”

“Very well Guardsman Eric you are dismissed I will speak to the elf privately.”

Eric saluted and turned on his heels and exited to the room, closing the large metal door behind him.

“My name is Moon, not elf.” I said.

“Moon it is then how will the healing proceed.”

“That depends on what your injury is.”

“3 years ago, I was thrown from my horse from an air mage attack. I landed badly on my back and since then I have lost most of my motor function from the waist down. I have seen several Light mages, but none have been able to completely heal it.”

I gave it some contemplation. I would have to see the injury and that would involve him disrobing.

“To heal it I would have to see the location of the injury, meaning I need to see your back.” I Expected him to have some kind of reaction. surprise, offense or embarrassment but the man showed as much emotion as a brick wall. He stared at me for a few seconds and said,

“Very well we will perform the healing here.” With remarkable efficiency he removed his breastplate gambeson and undershirt without any assistance or hesitation. This man must take the orders from the baron quite seriously.

He looked at me completely uncaring that he was bare chested and said. “How do we proceed?”

I shrugged and decided to just get this awkward affair over with.

Half an hour later the captain was laid down on his chest across his desk. I finally finished the repairs to the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral segments of his spine. It was quite a challenge to use the life ether to repair the damage to the bone and rebuild the nerves to reestablish connection to his legs. But I was finally finished and as far as I could tell he had a perfectly healthy spine. There was some muscular atrophy in his legs but that was his job to reverse.

“The healing is complete.” I announced.

He got up and sat at the end of the table wiggling his toes in clear disbelief. He carefully put weight on each foot and slowly stood on his own two feet for the first time in 3 years. He took a few unsure steps around the room. Eventually he gained confidence as he realized he had perfect control of his lower body. He then performed a stiff march that I had seen many guards do along the walls from one end of the room to another.

“The muscles are a bit sore.” He whispered to himself.

“Well, you haven’t properly used them in years, it's up to you to build them back up.” I said.

He dressed replacing his armor boots and breastplate. He then stood in front of me and performed a salute and a deep bow.

“Apologies for doubting your ability and my gratitude for returning the use of my legs to me.” There was a faintest tremble in his voice. It was enough to show that the stern man was in fact grateful.

“Doubt is expected Captain, now that you have seen my skill firsthand, I will trust that you will direct its use in an effective manner.”

“Yes, there are quite a few men and women who could both benefit from your abilities and would therefore benefit the war effort. But first we must gather the commanders and inform them of this I will do the honors of introducing you.” He sat back behind his desk and bellowed.

“CARLSON.” A young man rushed into the room and performed a stiff salute.

“Captain,” he responded.

“Gather the entire upper command structure in the training yard that is an order. Anyone who is not there within the hour will have latrine duty for a month, am I clear.”

“Crystal Captain” he turned and left to perform his duty.

“While they are gathering, we should discuss my plans to utilize your healing.”

An hour later the captain walked out a door leading to the training yard. It was a large dirt covered area with plenty of stay dummies to proactive on. There was a wooden platform 6 feet high that looked over the entire training area. Over a hundred men and women were idly loitering about in small discussions.

They stared dumbly at the guard captain as he entered the training area. The captain himself marched towards the platform, his head held high in stiff marching form, not glancing at any of them. His moves are so precise and well timed that he might as well have been an automaton. It must have taken years of constant repetition to walk like that. No doubt his legs were in pain, but I doubt he would have cared.

He reached the center of the platform, performed a 90 degree turn and faced the gathering.

“WHAT IS THIS POOR EXCUSE FOR A FORMATION ARE YOU SOLDIER OR FRESH RECRUITS.”

That seemed to snap them out of their surprise at seeing their captain, who an hour and a half earlier needed crutches to get around, march as if he was a man reborn. They sprang into action and in less than 10 seconds, were standing in perfect formation. Head high hand clasped behind their backs in even rows.

“Good I see you haven’t forgotten yourself. Now unto the announcements as some of you know Baron Veron has declared open war with Suncrest and intends to take the entire barony as his own. As such we have begun preparations for the coming conflict. As you no doubt have noticed I have full function of my limbs this is due to the healing ability of Sir Moon the elven light mage.”

At this point I climbed a few steps and stood next to him. Eyes flicked to me for barely an instant before refocusing back on the captain.

“The baron has commissioned his abilities for the duration of the preparation. He has been assigned the task of getting the entirety of the baron’s force to top fighting condition.”

The captain started to pace back and as he continued his speech the entire group locked onto him as if he was a great prophet.

“You have grown soft, and your skills have begun to rust during this period of peace. You must be broken down, melted, and beaten within an inch of your life and with Moon's assistance you will be reforged into proper warriors. Doesn’t that sound life fun?”

“YES CAPTAIN”

“Good, those who need mending to the sick bay. The rest I want you to gather all your men at arms and begin training. I want to see them marching in formation until their legs give out. I want them to practice sword forms until their arms fall off. If this field isn’t covered in blood by mid-day, then you have proven to be an utter disgrace to your oath and that armor you wear AM I UNDERSTOOD.”

“YES CAPTAIN”

“GOOD MOVE OUT” they saluted in unison and ran off in random directions around 20 of them headed to the sick bay. Most of them had smiles on their faces as if relishing the idea of the torturous training that we intended to put them through.

The captain took a deep breath, and a small smile came over his features as he watched the men and women run off to carry out their tasks.

“That was quite a speech. I’ll see to the sick bay. If you have anyone that needs mending, simply send them there.”

“Ah yes. I have a few in mind” as he returned to his stern expression. I turned to leave, and he caught my attention once more and said.

“I bares repeating. Thank you, Sir Mage.” he said.

“You are most welcome Captain.” I said as I walked away. The captain didn’t move from his spot or break his stance as the yard emptied. Was he that dedicated? Or did he just enjoy standing like that? I shrugged and left him to whatever bliss he seemed to find himself in.

As the Captain had stated by mid-day the training yard was filled with people furiously training. And I spent most of the time as the injured was brought to the sick bay. I repaired damaged muscles ligaments, poorly healed bone and any other number of injuries that kept them performing at peak condition. As the roughly thousand people in the yards trained and marched in formation I healed any injuries a that occurred of which there were many, though very few needed life ether too heal. No one was as severely injured as the captain.

A well-dressed male servant in the baron’s livery entered the sickbay as another young bowed in thanks and rushed out to return to training after healed a cracked rib. That did call into question Denerim wasn’t doing this.

The servant bowed and stated, “My Lord, I am Grant, have been assigned to see to your needs on behalf of the baron.”

“What is the extent of your duties?” I asked.

“I will see to your meals, transportation, clothing, and anything else you would require during your stay. If you need something, simply ask. I will see it done.” Grant said in a professional manner.

“The baron has been in consultation with his generals for most of the day and has invited you to join him in his smoking room for an evening meal and shared celestine. I have also been told to inform you that your meeting with the bank's staff regarding the baron’s recommendation will occur tomorrow.”

“Very good then, follow me.” I said I got up to leave the empty sick bay. The captain watched over the training for the entire day, his voice not once cracking as he shouted down orders.

“I think I should rest for the day. Using magic for so long is tiring.”

The captain glanced at the setting sun. “Very well sir mage I’ll keep the training to a minimum until we start again tomorrow.”

“Until then captain.”

“Take me to the Baron” I said to the servant.

We traveled once again through the keep until we entered the barons smoking room. There was a thick fog in the air as the door opened. The baron was seated at a small table eating a meal large enough for two people. There was a setting made for me that was just as large. To the side there are luxurious couches. The walls were of course opulently decorated with art and weapons. And a fireplace was lit and was softly crackling.

“Ah Moon.” the baron said through a mouthful of food “come join me.”

I sat down and without ceremony started to fill my plate. I was rather hungry from using magic for the last several hours.

“How goes your work with the captain?”

“Well, I’ve fixed his damaged spine and he’s taken to training the soldiers. Most of my time was spent healing them of injuries sustained from training. That man inspires a fanatical amount of motivation.”

“Mmmm yes, that’s why I wanted him in top condition first. That man was born to train and lead soldiers. During my campaign they practically worshiped him. Now that he’s back to his former self I’m sure he would light a fire in the hearts of the men.”

Based on the near fanatical focus they had while training he more than accomplished that. We spoke of inconsequential things until he asked me to join him smoking some celestine. It was a silver herb that was incredibly expensive to procure. We went over to the couch.

The baron offered me a pipe and opened a red sick bag filled with some of the herb. He added it to his pipe, lit it on fire with a wick and deeply inhaled. I followed his example, my eyes widened as the smoke filled my lungs. There was a rush of euphoria that flowed through my body that was slowly dissipating.

The baron chucked and said, “First time I see, try to hold it in, last longer that way.”

I did as instructed and held it in for longer that warm euphoric feeling once again spread through my body. I sunk back into the chair as I slowly released my breath.

I took another deep inhale and enjoyed the feeling then asked. “How goes the war planning?”

“Progressing smoothly, we’re estimating 2 months and 1 week before we can march.”

“Chances of victory?”

“Practically guaranteed, it’s mostly just a question of how many lives it will cost for us to win in the end. Will he surrender when he realizes that he can’t win or will I have to grind him and his barony to dust and rebuild from the remains.”

“I’ve never been in a war before but from what I’ve heard. It’s quite a terrible affair.” I said.

“It’s mostly boring travel with a few hours of actual combat, I recommend traveling with a camp woman to pass the time. It’s mostly the enemy peasants and women who suffer. Particularly if a commander fails to control his men.”

The baron shrugged and said. “In absence of clear victory sometimes a leader have to find……….other ways to keep the men motivated.”

Is he speaking on his own actions? I could only imagine the brutality men would commit if the situation became desperate. I banished those thoughts, not wanting them to cloud my judgments.

“Camp woman?” I said in confusion.

“Just some whore to pop your cork while you’re on the road. I usually travel with three.” The baron said, taking a deep inhale.

That certainly would make the largely boring travel more tolerable. Perhaps one of gardenia’s girls would do?

No, that wouldn’t work. I would have to keep her safe from other men from both our side and the enemy. That would take too much effort on my part.

Shame.

“When do you want to begin healing, I could do some initial healing now and continue in the morning.” I said.

“That sounds perfectly good. Please, proceed how you see fit.”

“Pardon me, I'll have to put my hands on you.”

He shrugged as if it was no big deal. I examined his body within the ether, and it was truly a mess. Years of injuries have been done to his muscles and joints. Not to mention the damage to his organs from his incessant drinking. Both his ACLs were torn, and he had a bad case of gout in his left foot. I spent some time repairing both ACLs and rebuilding the damaged ligament as well as reversing the gout in his feet. That should be sufficient to get him walking without significant pain. I could do more but it’s best to pace out his healing. The baron was largely zoned out focusing on his pipe.

“That should be enough that you won’t require the cane. It will take at least a month to get you in top form.” I said.

The baron stood up without any pain looking at his feet in wonderment. He took some steps around the room and did a hesitant squat. With his bulk that would have caused his previously damaged knees to give out. The man was at least 300 pounds.

“Still a bit tender but, hells moon I would have paid you double for just this.” the Barons said.

“Consider it a gift,” I said.

The baron and I relaxed in comfortable silence for some time smoking away the celestine.

“I’m going to enjoy myself tonight.” The baron said. “It’s been a while since I’ve been able to really get into it.”

I suppose those injuries would cause some complications.

“How does one go about procuring that in the upper city?” I asked.

“Ah just speak to Grant he’ll arrange everything.”

“Very well until tomorrow baron” I said.

“Mmmm.” he mumbled lost in his daydreams.

“My Lord” Grant said as I exited.

“I require a bath and some entertainment for tonight.” I said.

“Do you have a preferred establishment or shall I choose one for you.”

“Gardenia’s. Tell them to send Clarissa make sure they know I’m the one requesting.”

“If you would follow me a bath has been prepared in advance for you and clothes have been chosen.”

I raised an eyebrow at that and followed him. He led me to my rooms that looked fit for a king. A massive 4 posted bed was in the center and there was gilded furniture decorating the room.

“Off to the side is a servant’s bedroom for any personal attendants you have. Through there, is your private baths that have been prepared. Simply ring the bell if you require anything.”

“Very good. I’ll go now. If Clarissa arrives while I’m in the bath, tell her to join me.” I said.

In the center of the room was a large circular bath built into the floor and on a table next to it was all kinds of soaps, oils and sponges I could use. I disrobed and sunk myself into the steaming water. It was as deep as my chest and wider than I was tall. I floated bonelessly on the surface of the hot water for some time. half an hour later and a knock at the door brought me out of my stupor.

“Enter I said.”

Clarissa walked into the bath and said. “My haven’t you moved up in the world.”

“That man works fast and didn't think you would arrive so soon.” I said.

“I’m sure he is used to dealing with impatient nobles.” Clarissa said.

“Well, are you just going to stand there enjoying the view or are you going to join me?”

She smirked and disrobed in that slow fashion I enjoyed and joined me in the large bath. We played in the tub until our skin started to prune then we moved to the large bed. I made sure to spend the time filling her with all the information I wanted Gardenia to know.