Dead Letter by Benjamin Descovich

Author:Benjamin Descovich
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: mystery, fantasy, magic, battle, dragon, sorcery, intrigue, mage, swords and scorcery, mystery and fantasy

CHAPTER TEN

Guardsman Ginny

Before they reached Founders Fort, Kettna asked the twins to disappear down a nearby street. The illusions did as literally commanded, vanishing before the eyes of three children throwing marbles. Kettna’s heart warmed with the wonder on the young witnesses surprised faces. It was easy to forget the simple marvels of magic when a sorcerer’s life was dedicated to fathoming arcane intricacies. These children were a sweet reminder of how captivating the gift of magic was.

Kettna and Lanuille continued on until the spike crested guard with the menacing halberd stopped them at the gatehouse. “What is your reason for entry?” he asked, as if he had no memory of their last conversation, nor who Kettna was.

“I’m here to report back to the Constable,” she replied. “I’m the new Inspe—“

“He’s attending the morning patrol, Inspector,” said the fighter, giving her a crisp salute, hand over heart. “I was just pulling your leg. You’re one of us now, so you can come and go as you please.”

Kettna imitated his salute as thanks, but by the smile on the warrior’s face, she made a poor copy.

“Might need to practice that. Looks like you slapped your chest with a fish.”

“Sorry, how do I do it correctly? I’ve not had a lesson in guard etiquette.”

The guard demonstrated and Kettna tried again. “Right hand straight as a paddle and palm to your heart. Briskly on the way and crisply to your side. That’s it! Couldn’t be simpler.”

“Looks like you are both trying to dislodge a chicken bone,” said Lanuille.

“Good thing we practiced before lunch then,” quipped the warrior. “Wouldn’t you say, Inspector?”

“Indeed! If Lanuille has any trouble with her meal, I’ll be quick to impress upon her my newly acquired skill.”

The adept failed to rally a smile. “Shouldn’t we find this guard you are after?”

“Who are you looking for?” asked the gate guard. “Any of us would be glad to help.”

“His name is Ginny. Is there a guard by that name here?”

The gatekeeper’s face pulled into a frown. “He’s not the helpful kind. Thick as a ham, but thinks he’s a devil’s advisor. Mind that both you ladies stick together. He’s a bit of a brute.”

“Just the man I’ve been holding out for,” said Lanuille. “Where do we find him?”

“Boy!” called the gatekeeper, prompting the appearance of the page who helped them earlier. The boy was rolling a barrel in front of him. “You seen Ginny?”

“Yes, sir. He’s on training duty with the recruits.”

“Gods help them. Take our Inspector to the sparring yard, would you? And how’s that chainmail coming along?”

“If I roll there and back, the links will shine brighter than the silver you’ll owe me.”

The guardsmen waved him off. “Get on with ya!”

The boy rolled his barrel away and the mages followed, listening as the boy instructed them on the importance of weapons and armour maintenance. “But I have no armour,” explained Kettna.

“What about a sword or something? Maybe a wand that shoots lightning?” he asked.

“That would be grand, wouldn’t it.“

“A guardsman has to have something, or the street will swallow ‘em whole.

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