Shattered World Series: Gambits and Prophesies by Dr. C. Cat

Author:Dr. C. Cat [Cat, C.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-02-02T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 13.0 - Mansio - A Legendary Reception, Even if it's For a Night

Originally, mansios were developed during the reign of the last great Arch Mage. The Arch Mage ordered the construction of mansios, or fortified manors, to be constructed at regular intervals to serve as a haven for Royal travelers, government officials, merchants, and those who can afford to pay for security during their travels.

- Gamsbin Traditions Vol. 1

Daryl and Dennis back tracked through the forest and quickened the pace as the sun touched the horizon. After passing two stone distance markers a massive fortification sitting on top of a hill crept into view. The mansio was at least twice the size as the mansio that was just outside his village. Guards in mixed armor of chainmail and plate patrolled the high stone walls in pairs. Black banners with a stylized winged bug with two golden diamonds under the bug dotted the rim of the walls and entrance to the mansio.

The walls were higher than anything that Daryl had seen before.

As if Dennis was reading Daryl’s thoughts he said, “If you are impressed by this place, wait till you see the white walls of Gamsbin.”

“Wait, how did you know what I was thinking?”

“You’re mouth breathing,” Dennis said, putting his hand under his chin to close his mouth.

Daryl replied “Oh, sorry.” Looking to save face from any more embarrassment he asked, “So who owns this place?”

Dennis scanned around and pointed to the black pennants swaying over the entrance to the Mansio.

“There,” he said pointing to the banners. “This place is run by Duke Waspen, the wasp is a symbol of his family. See the two gold diamonds? That tells us he’s a Duke, and the gold color means that he’s the first born. Silver is second born, red is for the third child, orange, yellow, green and so on.”

“Almost like a rainbow,” Daryl replied. Dennis smiled and patted him on the back.

Somewhere inside the mansio a bell rang loudly, echoing off the walls and down the sea of grass that filled the valley and along the rolling hills.

“We need to hurry,” Dennis said tapping Daryl on the shoulder. “That’s the first set of bells warning us that the gates will soon close for the night.”

“Right,” replied Daryl. They ran down the emperor’s road. After a quick check of their mouths, were allowed entry into the fortification.

“What was that about? The guards never look into my mouth at our mansio,” quietly asked Daryl as they walked past the guards.

“They are looking for the spotted tongue disease. It’s common among the flesh-eating cannibals,” Dennis responded.

Once past the outer gates Daryl’s eyes were met with a stone building, covered in white plaster. Dennis explained that it was an administration building that doubled as a defensive structure. Statues of warriors were displayed around the perimeter. Most of the stoic faced statues still brandished replica weapons and wore armor they used during their life.

Dennis covered his right hand over his clinched fist and bowed. Before

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