{"id":51,"date":"2025-02-23T02:57:56","date_gmt":"2025-02-23T02:57:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/64.27.63.132\/~pruzzina\/pruzzina.com\/?page_id=51"},"modified":"2025-03-02T20:29:47","modified_gmt":"2025-03-02T20:29:47","slug":"friendship-and-duty","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/?page_id=51","title":{"rendered":"Friendship and Duty"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

by C.C. von Moguntia \u00a0\u00a9 2015\u2013\u00a0for offline reading, also available in\u00a0PDF format.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sir Reinhardt von Oberm\u00fcnde leaned lazily against the wall of the throne room in the Silver Castle. A quick glance ensured his men were holding their guard positions in the hallway and out in the gardens. Only when everything looked calm did he focus his attention back on his charge, the Princess Christiana, the king\u2019s only child and heir to the throne in front of which she was now playing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The blonde girl had a row of play knights on horseback lined up on the steps of the dais. She also had a figurine of a queen, which she now let walk before the arrayed knights. Reinhardt noticed with satisfaction that she had a knight in the red-blue-white surcoat of the Royal Guard accompany the sovereign wherever she went.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt smiled. If the king went the way of the grave, he would gladly serve his daughter in the same capacity as First Knight and Grand Marshal of the Armies of Pruzzina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The princess stopped the toy queen before a knight in an ocean blue surcoat. \u201cDuke von Rhadebucht, I had to notice with dismay that your ledgers are still not balanced. Dismount and explain yourself to your liege.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She threw her voice deeper. \u201cMy apologies, Your Majesty. I was going to fix them, honest, but the dog ate the books and we had to start all over…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She spoke normally again. \u201cNonsense. That is the lamest excuse I have ever heard. Marshal? I want you to arrest the duke and throw him in the dungeon. Maybe his scribes will follow orders better than their master.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She threw her voice again, this time imitating the marshal\u2019s short, precise words. \u201cAs you command, Your Majesty.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt shook his head with a wry smile. The princess certainly did not play like normal young girls would, but then, ordinary girls were not heir to the throne of a large kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His musings were interrupted when the front door to the castle opened noisily and the guards by the doors to the hall gathered much closer to be able to fend off whoever would demand entry. The marshal grabbed the hilt of his sword, as much out of reflex as concern for the princess\u2019s life. He rushed to the entrance and peeked through the crack of the leaned-to door. When he could not see enough of the foyer to ascertain what had happened, he turned to the princess who had stopped playing and caught up to stand stood right behind him. He knelt to be at eye-level with her. \u201cMilady, I will have to entrust you to the care of the captain of the guard to see what the commotion was all about. Please, stay in this room and do not leave. I will be back as soon as I can.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christiana nodded. \u201cDo you think Papa will have to receive a guest here? I would have to clean up my knights.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt smiled. He was as very fond of her. \u201cI think, maybe, in case your father does need the space, you should command your army to withdraw into the basket, only for the time being, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She grinned. \u201cI will order a strategic retreat, but now you must see what is going on and if Papa needs you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He bowed to the princess as he was kneeling. \u201cAs you command, Milady.\u201d With another smile, he stood and left through the half-open door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once he reached the foyer, he waved the captain to himself. \u201cReport.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, sir. Urgent messenger from the Ostmark. The herald escorted him to the king\u2019s chambers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt flicked his glance at the door behind him. \u201cYou guard this girl with your life, am I clear?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, of course, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cGood. I will be back.\u201d He dismissed his men with a terse nod before he bounded up the large staircase and hurried to the king\u2019s study.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201c…lingering in front of the defenses. We can\u2019t send scouts, but just from the walls, it does not look good. There are thousands, to be sure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt slipped silently around the messenger and stood at his accustomed spot behind King Gerhard\u2019s chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He turned to look at him. \u201cThe Ostmark, again. Sounds like they are serious this time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat are your orders, Sire? Full deployment?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king paused for only a moment. \u201cYes, from what I am hearing, it is warranted. Better safe than sorry. Draw up the orders for your troops, and send the chancellor so he can do the same for the nobles.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt bowed to his liege. \u201cAs you command.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard scanned the mud-splattered messenger. \u201cGo, get some rest. You will ride out with the army. If there is more to be told, you can brief me on the way.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI hear and obey, Your Majesty.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhard entered the royal bedchamber and found King Gerhard standing while the servant tightened the strap on his battle armor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cReinhardt, everything ready?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYes, Sire. The garrison is holding, waiting for your arrival.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king nodded, his gaze absent and distracted. \u201cGood… good…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The servant bowed and left his chambers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When they were alone, Reinhardt asked, \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt raised his eyes to look at him. \u201cNow I know why the First Knight and the Grand Marshal should be two different men.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt creased his forehead. \u201cOh?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard sighed. \u201cI have to leave her by herself, while her protector will be with me, bashing barbarians, not here, minding his charge.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt smiled wryly. \u201cAs much as I would like to split myself in half, I think I should lead the army, don\u2019t you think?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He made a face. \u201cI know. I wish I could… ugh…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt frowned. \u201cYou are not thinking of taking your daughter with you to war, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard snorted. \u201cNo, of course not. I am trying to figure out who I should leave behind to watch over her… maybe…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He looked into his eyes. \u201cGerhard.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king met his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cShe is every bit your daughter. She will be fine. If you want, I can speak to her, remind her to stay in the company of the palace guards, and–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard shook his head. \u201cNo, no, I must talk to her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDo you want me to fetch her?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIf you would.\u201d The king wore a tired smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI will be right back.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2026*\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt slowed his walk so the princess could keep up with his long strides. As they climbed the foyer stairs he had to smirk at the strange pair they made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He was tall, his polished armor well-worn, his massive broadsword handy by his side, his war-calloused hand never far from its hilt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She was a delicate blossom half his size, her flowing, embroidered dress trailed behind her, her blonde tresses flowed like golden waves down her back with every step she took. Her graceful hands gathering the folds of her garment reminded him of the ivory carvings of a Madonna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAre you coming or should I go on without you?\u201d Her captivating smile lit up her entire face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt sped up his steps. \u201cI will accompany you, Milady.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThen come.\u201d She turned to walk ahead while the servants by the door already opened to admit her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They entered the king\u2019s chambers. When she spotted her father, she ran toward him. \u201cPapa! You’re riding out with the army? What border is it this time?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt tried to smile, but his eyes were glistening suspiciously. \u201cOh, Tiana, my precious, precious little girl…\u201d He knelt with the creaking and jingling of his armor to be at eye level with her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Princess Christiana took his face into her little hands and kissed him on the cheek. \u201cDon\u2019t fret, Papa. I\u2019ll watch over things for you while you are gone. You go and fight the bad guys. I will help the chancellor however I can. You can rely on us.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt\u2019s chin quivered and he embraced her tightly to hide that tears were about to spill across his face. \u201cTiana…\u201d He swallowed hard to steady his voice. \u201cOf course you will… and I think you should keep an eye on the Silver Castle as well. I am not sure if the new castellan will know what to do just yet.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She pulled herself out of his tight embrace and grinned with excitement. \u201cReally? Oh, Papa, I will do my best to see to it everything is as you like it. I promise.\u201d She took her slim finger and wiped a tear from the side of his nose. \u201cDon\u2019t worry about us, Papa. I won\u2019t be afraid. I am sure you and Master Reinhardt can take care of the enemies easily.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard took her face into his hands, kissed her forehead, and caressed her cheek with his thumb. \u201cNow, to make sure I don\u2019t have to worry when I am gone, I need you to be good and never leave the sight of one of the palace guards, do you hear me? I have to know you are safe.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christiana frowned. \u201cDon\u2019t you need all the guards at the border? I think they will do more good bashing bad guys than standing around, watching doors.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard chuckled. \u201cTrue, but I have to leave at least a few of them here to watch the place. We can\u2019t have people simply walking in, stealing our stuff.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She thought about it for a moment before she nodded. \u201cMaybe you are right. We might need a some of them.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt said, \u201cMilady, please do me a favor and stay with the Captain of the Guard. It would make me worry less as well.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She made a face. \u201cWell… all right, I guess. But don\u2019t pick that pudgy captain who watched me before. He would not let me do anything for myself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He chuckled. \u201cI suppose I will order Captain Bernard and his company to stay behind then.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She looked at her father. \u201cCaptain Bernhard is a good soldier, but you don\u2019t have to leave his entire company behind just for me. Two platoons are good enough, aren\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the exasperated marshal could reply, the king said, \u201cWe will see how many we can spare at the garrison later, but now come with me. I will have to give the chancellor and the castellan instructions that you will take care of things while I am gone.\u201d He straightened and held his hand out for hers. They both left the chambers on their way to the offices of the officials of Pruzzina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

..*…
Reinhardt glanced at Captain Bernhard to stand at ease. \u201cDo you understand your orders?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The captain nodded gravely. \u201cWe are to guard the castle, but most importantly, Her Royal Highness, Princess Christiana.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou know how she can be, always good for escaping the watchful eyes of her keepers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The captain flashed a tight smile. \u201cYes, sir. I remember it well enough.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt\u2019s gaze sought his eyes. \u201cIf anything should happen to the king\u2019s precious daughter… the heir to the throne…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bernhard swallowed hard. \u201cI know, sir. I would suffer the full brunt of His Majesty\u2019s wrath.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAnd mine as well, if you survive the king\u2019s displeasure, that is.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bernhard stood at attention even more stiffly. \u201cI will vouch my life to keep her safe, sir. I swear it by the Holy Mother.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt nodded, satisfied he would do exactly that. \u201cOff to your post, soldier.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs you command, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The long column of fully armed knights and soldiers rode out of the gates of Cliffhaven, following the road leading into the vast forest. King Gerhard reined in his horse and gazed back at the massive city walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt held his steed by his side. \u201cSire?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king whispered, \u201cI don\u2019t know…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cDo you regret ordering the castellan to do as she orders?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard chuckled at the reminder. \u201cNo, no. I am sure she will do fine.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt looked into his eyes. \u201cThen what?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He shook his head and sighed. \u201cI don\u2019t know… this feeling… that I should not… that I am leaving the most valuable treasure in all of Pruzzina barely guarded…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The marshal\u2019s voice was soothing. \u201cWe left an entire–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI know that… I know… still.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt smiled. \u201cWe should catch up with the column, Sire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard turned to look at the passing soldiers. \u201cRight… the duty of a king…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cShe will be fine.\u201d Reinhardt laid a comforting hand on his bracer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He sighed. \u201cYes, I suppose, in my head, I know that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king entered the command tent to the bowing of the generals. He walked to the big table in its center, covered with maps and troop markers. \u201cHow does it look?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt looked up at him and straightened from looking over the parchments. \u201cSire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sensing that his friend would rather speak in private, the king glanced at the generals. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you get some dinner?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The soldiers bowed and excused themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When only the king and the marshal were left, Gerhard groaned. \u201cThat bad, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt snorted. \u201cWell, it isn\u2019t good. The line broke here and here today. We were able to seal this breach, but over here…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHow many made it into the woods?\u201d He looked over the maps with a worried frown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt turned and leaned against the table, his arms crossed over his chest. \u201cI have no idea. It was only by a stroke of luck that we saw them at all. Those sneaky bastards could have brought an entire battalion for all I know.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHmph.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He shrugged. \u201cI will do my best to clean this up… if I can.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI know you will. I am glad to have you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt dragged his palm across his strained forehead. \u201cIt will cost many lives, I am sure… maybe even my own.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard shook his head. \u201cWe have enough cavalry. Let them go after them.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI think I could serve you better if I led the scouts to–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He slapped his padded shoulder in friendship. \u201cAnd who watches my back while you are gallivanting around in the woods?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The First Knight smiled sheepishly. \u201cI guess I am terrible at my job, aren\u2019t I?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead of answering, Gerhard looked over the maps. \u201cWell, if the knights are taking the woods, I think I should lead the infantry here and here. If we hold the river ford…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI will be by your side, Sire.\u201d The tone of his voice betrayed that he did not think this was the best course of action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard\u2019s stern gaze made sure he had the marshal\u2019s full attention. \u201cI think you should stay out of the fighting. I need you to run this.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou are not such a bad tactician yourself, Sire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cQuit trying to beguile me and listen. If I have learned one thing from my father it is this–don\u2019t allow your commander to get killed or the entire army is in disarray.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt held his gaze for a long moment before he nodded to break eye contact. \u201cI will stay out of the fray. As you command, my liege.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNow, now. No need to be sore.\u201d Gerhard smiled. \u201cThere will be plenty of killing to go around, I am sure.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cLet us hope it is far away from you, though.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard chuckled. \u201cAt least on that, we can agree.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt looked over the battlefield with his forehead in deep creases. When one of the lieutenants came to report, he was short and gruff with him. After another soldier backed away quickly after having given his message, Gerhard frowned at him. \u201cYou are in a bad mood.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt snorted. \u201cLook at this mess!\u201d His voice was sharp with scorn. \u201cThree times I\u2019ve sent word for Weizenfeld to tighten his lines. Instead, they get sloppier by the minute. What in the world! Ugh!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard glanced at the soldiers and knights holding around them. \u201cI know you want to go in there and clean it up yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt lifted his hands. \u201cI know, I know. My place is here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king nodded his chin in the direction of the failing line by the river crossing. \u201cI think on this occasion, Weizenfeld and his knights need a good talking-to, from somebody who would not cause political difficulty if… say… his fist found some of their chins…?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The marshal turned to stare at Gerhard. When he spotted the mischievous twinkle in his eyes, he laughed aloud. \u201cI think I can keep my fists to myself. I will be right back. Don\u2019t go charging into the fray yourself until I am, though.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt grinned. \u201cI will hold here and watch you kick some barbarian rears. How does that sound?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cGood enough. I\u2019ll see you later.\u201d He barked a few commands to the captains holding nearby as he swung himself into the saddle and heeled his charger toward the battlefield.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt parried a war ax meant for his head before he stuck his dagger into the attacker\u2019s ribs. \u201cThere, that\u2019ll show you.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cSir, Lord von Weizenfeld is calling for a partial retreat.\u201d One of his captains barely kept his steed steady in the battle frenzy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He felt his rage bubble up in his throat like boiling stew. \u201cHe what? Well, we\u2019ll see about that.\u201d He reined his stallion even deeper into the fighting, hacking and bashing at the enemies\u2019 heads as his horse plowed through the onslaught.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He only stopped when he had reached the baron, surrounded by several rows of his knights. \u201cWhat on earth? Milord, I hope you are joking!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Baron von Weizenfeld flashed a weary smile. \u201cMy men are tired, Marshal–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYour men will be dead in a minute if you keep this up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat do you suggest we do?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt barked, \u201cGet back to the king\u2019s company. Willerich and I will take care of this.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The baron\u2019s First Knight said, \u201cYes, Milord. Let us take it from here. I can see you are fatigued.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The baron thought for only a moment and nodded tersely. \u201cFine, but don\u2019t get too many of my knights killed.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI\u2019ll try not to, Milord.\u201d Reinhardt barely waited until he was out of earshot before he looked at Willerich. \u201cGet your men back in it. We need to tighten this up around the shore and the village wall.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs you command, sir.\u201d A few commands to his soldiers quickly mobilized the line once more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This time, Reinhardt saw to it that it stayed tight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt avoided the spikes of a morning star and counterattacked, his massive broadsword cutting the attacker from his steed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The captain and his men bashed their way through the fray, mud splattered. \u201cSir? Sir!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt wheeled around to deflect a spear aimed for his ribs and followed through with his blade, blood spraying his arms and chest. \u201cWhat? Can\u2019t you see I am busy at the moment?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI do, Sir.\u201d The soldier dodged the head of a mace and stabbed his attacker. \u201cBut I think you should attend to His Majesty.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt became serious in an instant and his gaze sought the little hillock where the royal party had been holding before. \u201cThe king…? How is he? Where is he?\u201d He swung at a barbarian, annoyed that he dared to interrupt his conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The captain shouted over the din of clashing steel, \u201cNot good, sir, from what I have been told. The line broke right in front of us and we were neck-deep in barbarians before we knew it.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before he could elaborate further, Reinhardt barely suppressed a curse and barked, \u201cYour men are with me.\u201d Without waiting for his response, Reinhardt heeled his steed through the thick of battle, straight toward his king.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…*…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt urged his horse to even more speed when he spotted the king sitting on the ground with his head in his hand. When he saw his physician attend him, Reinhardt gasped and did not slow until he dismounted by the hillock, his stallion not fully stopped yet. \u201cSire? I am so sorry…!\u201d He ran and dropped to his knees next to him without regard for the churned mud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt waved his concern off. \u201cNothing you could have done if you\u2019d been here, my friend.\u201d He looked up at the physician. \u201cAre you finished?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The healer tugged on the bandage once more. \u201cWell enough, Sire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king nodded his thanks. \u201cWhy don\u2019t you see to my knights? They might have wounds much graver than mine.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI will do so, Your Majesty.\u201d He retreated with a bow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When he was gone, Reinhardt asked, \u201cHow deep is it?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhardt glanced at his bandaged arm. \u201cThis? Not as bad as it looks. The cut in my scalp stings worse.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He scanned his king\u2019 injuries without an attempt to keep the worry off his face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe bastard almost chopped my head off. I was very lucky.\u201d The king shrugged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt bit his lip as he averted his gaze. \u201cI should have–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201c…been here?\u201d Gerhard snorted. \u201cYeah, maybe, but you couldn\u2019t have prevented them breaking through and taking the hillock any more than the company of knights who were watching over me. I dare say you might have been even worse off than me right now.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt could not help his sour face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cIt\u2019s over. Don\u2019t worry about it anymore.\u201d Gerhard\u2019s voice was soothing. \u201cThey\u2019re dead and we live. How did it go at the ford? I saw you were dishing it out pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWe\u2019re still holding the river, no thanks to Baron von Weizenfeld, I might add. He almost withdrew to let them all just stroll right in.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard chuckled. \u201cI bet he regretted that.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He held up his hands with a shrug. \u201cI was nice enough when I asked him to get off the field and leave this to real men.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou have to work on your people skills.\u201d Gerhard elbowed him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI thought I was.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king glanced at the glowering sky. \u201cI think we should tighten it up for tonight. I want to start the morning fresh, with the lines by the river, not all the way up here.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see to it, Sire.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2026*\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The crickets\u2019 serenade blended with the soothing sound of splashing raindrops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt allowed the maps on the table to roll in on themselves. The command tent was quiet after the king had sent the bickering generals to their blankets for the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He headed for the exit when he found King Gerhard standing barely within the entry flap, his tired gaze fixed on the dark forest below. \u201cYou\u2019re up late.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king jumped at the voice beside him. \u201cSo are you. You came up with a strategy?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt smiled. \u201cAlmost. I was going to sleep on it to be sure.\u201d When Gerhard did not respond, he asked softly, \u201cYou are still thinking about the raid?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard continued to look out into the darkness. \u201cThe enemy almost made Tiana an orphan today.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cYou were not that badly wounded.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He snorted. \u201cBy the grace of Almighty God alone, I assure you. Only one more inch and the barbarian would have hit my carotid artery instead of my helmet.\u201d He paused for a moment. \u201cOne more inch and I would not be having this conversation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt did not know how to answer him. Everybody had to deal with the brush of death in their own way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king pulled his silver coronet out of his surcoat and caressed its delicate leaves with his thumb. \u201cOne more inch and Tiana would have been queen of Pruzzina.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI am sure she would have done a wonderful job. She is just like you in so many ways.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard turned to him, his eyes full of pain and regret. \u201cReinhardt, she is eight years old. You know as well as I do… The dukes would have outdone each other in trying to seize control. First, they would have married her off to one of their snot-nosed sons, whether she wanted to or not, and then…\u201d His chin quivered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt flinched. The king was right, and the truth tore at his heart as much as if the princess was his own daughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard beat his fist into his palm. \u201cI can\u2019t allow that to happen. I simply cannot.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“She is the heir to the throne. Eventually, she must wed one of their snot-nosed sons.\u201d His voice was soft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cNot if I can help it.\u201d The king pressed the words through clenched teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt looked at him. \u201cWhat are you going to do?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard jutted his jaw out with defiance. \u201cI\u2019ll marry a widow with a son. I\u2019ll adopt him and voila, my daughter does not have to inherit this bloomin\u2019 mess I will leave to somebody… someday.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt gasped. \u201cYou will deny Christiana her birthright?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A bitter laugh escaped the king\u2019s throat. \u201cSome birthright! A council chamber full of squabbling nobles, weak borders that won\u2019t stop much of anything, neighbors on almost all sides who would sooner kill us than trade with us. And not to forget the mountains of reports and ledgers one has to wade through almost day after day.\u201d He snorted sarcastically. \u201cHmph! Birthright! I\u2019d rather see her live as a commoner and marry whomever she likes than lay such a heavy yoke around her neck. I think she would thank me for it.\u201d He slowly twirled the coronet in his hands. \u201cThis thing can weigh a ton when it is on your brow, especially on days like this…\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat if the son you\u2019ll adopt won\u2019t do any better either?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard shrugged. \u201cHow hard is it to learn to read and reply to the Crown\u2019s correspondence? Not overly, I\u2019d think.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cWhat about leadership?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He hit the taut tent pole with his right fist. \u201cNo, I have made up my mind. Tiana…\u201d He looked out over the forest once more. \u201cShe should not have to endure such a fate…\u201d He gripped the crown until his knuckles turned white. \u201cNo, I\u2019d rather marry a battle ax and suffer through a loveless marriage than put this upon her.\u201d A heavy sigh shuttered his shoulders. \u201cI hope my darling wife, may God rest her, will understand and forgive me.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt said, \u201cI\u2019m sure she sees your heart and knows you are making this sacrifice for her child.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The tears collected in Gerhard\u2019s eyes. \u201cI loved her, you know? My wife, I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI know you did.\u201d He laid a compassionate hand on his shoulder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king swallowed hard. \u201cIt will be difficult for me to… marry someone else.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAre you sure you have to? You might live a very long time. By then, your daughter is well able to–\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gerhard turned to look at him, his forehead in a frown. \u201cTiana is the only thing I have left of my wife…of my entire House. I would see her rejoice in a life of happiness, not burdened down with this gigantic responsibility.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reinhardt allowed him to grieve for some time before he said, \u201cI think you should get some rest. Tomorrow, things will look different.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The king nodded, fatigue washing over his countenance. \u201cYou are right, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To end on a more hopeful note, Reinhardt added, \u201cTomorrow we have to kick these bastards out of Pruzzina for good or collect their bloody corpses. Either way works for me.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

by C.C. von Moguntia \u00a0\u00a9 2015\u2013\u00a0for offline reading, also available in\u00a0PDF format. Sir Reinhardt von Oberm\u00fcnde leaned lazily against the wall of the throne room in the Silver Castle. A quick glance ensured his men were holding their guard positions … Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":46,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-51","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/51","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=51"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/51\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":110,"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/51\/revisions\/110"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/46"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pruzzina.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=51"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}