Silver Threads by D.L. Gardner

Author:D.L. Gardner
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Companion Stories, short stories, fantasy, Cho Nisi, epic
Publisher: D.L. Gardner
Published: 2021-05-25T00:00:00+00:00

Barin’s Quest

This story can be read after Rise of the Tobian Princess

BARIN OFTEN MET HIS father in the round room, a cozy den with rich oak walls, the family’s sword collection polished and shimmering in their racks, and shelves bearing the weight of tomes filled with ancient literature and poetry. The room had a distinct smell of books, leather, and King Tobias’ musk oil, a fragrance his father burned to calm himself during stressful times. Today the incense clouded the room. Barin coughed as the king motioned for him and Commander Neal to sit.

The king leaned back in his chair, his wiry beard thick over his dark doublet, his blue eyes solemn as he studied his son.

“I’ve a request,” the king stated. “We lost too many horses during our latest scuffle with skura. We need to replace them. Fifty should be sufficient. Since Lord Sylvester’s Koladan mares foaled four years ago, he should have plenty to sell this spring.” He pushed a bag of coin to his son. “Normally I would pay him when he comes to visit, but he’s a devil to negotiate with especially for that breed. I want them, Barin. I need them. Don’t compromise.”

“Yes, Vasil.” Barin agreed, taking the bag, and assessing its weight in his hands, his eyes wide. “I would think it would please Lord Sylvester to sell his horses for such a purse.”

“Don’t be too sure. The man is a stickler. We’ve crossed each other a few times.”

“Then I’ll do what I can,” Barin assured him.

“Don’t leave until you have what we want. It might take a day or two but be hard on him. He’s come into too much power with this horse-trading of his. You’d think he were king the way he manipulates me!”

“I’ll put him in his place,” Barin grinned.

“Yes, I think you have the talent. I’m getting too old, too soft. Most of the noblemen use me rather than respect me.”

“That needs to stop, Father.”

“Yes, well, a lot of things need to stop. Maybe it’s just time I turn this kingdom over to you while I still have sense about me. Take your grandfather’s lead, bless the old man. How is he?” Tobias asked.

“He’s doing well, Father. Enjoying his retreat by the sea. I should bring him to see you sometime, but he refuses to get in a carriage.”

“Oh, perhaps I should take time away and visit him. Problem is, I may not want to return.” A deep raspy cough took over the king’s posture and Barin sat up in concern, exchanging a look with Neal.

“Shall I send for a physicker?”

Tobias pulled a kerchief from his doublet and spat in it. His eyes watered from the fit and he shook his head.

“No, son. What I need is a new body, but I’ll have to be satisfied with the one I have. Don’t worry about me. Take care of this. Get us some splendid horses.”

King Tobias rose, as did Neal and Barin.

“Is that everything?”

“That’s more than enough. I don’t envy you having to deal with Lord Sylvester.

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