Thrall by Steven Shrewsbury

Author:Steven Shrewsbury [Shrewsbury, Steven]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fantasy, Fiction
Publisher: Seventh Star Press
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER XI

Lannon, Mitre, and

the Summoning

*

Deep in the fortress of Kanoch, Lannon once again met Lord Nosmada near the Chamber of Redemption. This time Nosmada required no aid in walking. He moved with measured strides yet his legs quivered, appearing feeble. Lannon kept a respectful distance and slowed his pace so as not to out distance his master.

Nosmada asked him with weariness in his voice, “How is Zillian after speaking with the general?”

“Zillian is very weak, sire, as always after using her viewing.”

Nosmada’s face became more vital and rage rose in him, but his words remained steady as he said, “I wasn’t planning for her to use her magicks yet. Tolin requested an audience and isn’t powerful enough in his state to conduct such magicks. It took more out of my Zillian. Bastard.”

“He sounds quite determined, Lord.”

In his place of rest, Nosmada reclined and pondered his words. He told Lannon to go care for Zillian. Just as he was leaving, Nosmada said in a fatigued tone, “How long have you served me?”

“Most of my adult years, sir. Not all in your inner chambers, but for most of my life.” Nosmada already knew this, but he answered him anyway.

“I contemplated your words to me earlier, but refresh my memory. What do they say of me in the outside world?”

Lannon didn’t answer right away.

Nosmada smiled. “You choose your words carefully. That’s wise and amusing unto my very soul. But be honest. Entertain me with words, good or ill, from outside these walls. I’m not likely to kill such a faithful servant as you, am I?”

“Oh, I don’t listen to idle gossip, sire.”

“But I wager they fear you in the taverns and halls because you work for me, no?” Nosmada offered in a kind voice.

Lannon couldn’t help but smile. “True, sire, your patronage inspires fear, loathing, and love.”

Nosmada laughed. “I can see the fear and loathing, but love? Oh, do tell. How does the accursed one of Earth inspire love?”

“It’s an element of what bards call celebrity or being associated with legendary status. Since there are so many legends and tales about you, they think any man who serves you so long and lives must have favor in your eyes. I am not foolish enough to be that arrogant. I serve and go home. However, the young females in the taverns, or the girls that don’t go to saloons, just want to be close to your aura, your legend.”

“So.” Nosmada laid his head back. “You get many women because they are caught up in my thrall?”

“That’s about correct, sir.”

“No wonder you serve me gladly.”

“There are worse duties, sir. May I ask a simple question?”

“We shall see if I answer it. Go on.”

“Have you ever met Gorias La Gaul? He’s incredibly long lived, such as yourself…”

Nosmada shrugged. “Great age is no fantastic exploit in these times. Most are long lived in this day, if they don’t end up murdered. No, I have never met Gorias La Gaul. He has lived but seven centuries while I have trod this planet much longer.

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