Theurgy: Forsaken Oaths (Book Two)

Chapter 29 Making Amends

Things were going smoothly. Well, as smoothly as conquering a village normally went. 

     Within the day, things have calmed down at least a little. Edlund has been in close contact with Njal and Thyra. Mostly Thyra, as Njal seemed to want to be around him like snow wants to be around a flame. He made sure to keep an eye on him, mainly to make sure he wouldn't do anything stupid. And he hopes that he can become a leader of his people. Thyra, thankfully, was much more considerate in that regard. She seemed far more prepared to face the prospect of becoming a part of the Empire. Edlund thought this strange but supposed that as such a small volkf near the borders, such a thing was to be expected at some point. But to say that the people's temperaments were quelled with a few promises and kind gestures would be too generous. A few altercations broke out with the warriors. Having them stripped of their weapons would do such a thing. Sand of course, the young Njal was there to stir tension even further.

     "How dare you southern dogs," he shouted at Renard. "These weapons are our pride. They are our vows to protect this village. You will have to take them from our dead hands."

     "We have no intent to rob you of your duties," Renard said. "We recognize you all as warriors, who will give their lives to this humble volkf. You may receive your weapons back when you prove your loyalties. Understood, boy?

      If Renard wasn't there, things could have ended far worst. The warriors very reluctantly agreed, most likely due to Renard's status and age. Edlund was glad he was able to smooth things out before they got out of hand. Now those same warriors will be put on guard duties within the town given clubs and staffs instead of their swords and spears. These warriors would answer to Njal, which they didn't seem thrilled about, given his age and nerves—constantly telling the people to stay strong and not lose their hearts and that they will make it through these trying times. Though his speeches were passionate, their sentiments were felt less and less as the days went on.

       Thankfully, within the week, food and supplies from Bastillon had arrived. They started repairs and reconstruction on the wall, even extending it around the army's main camp. It wasn't exactly super fortified; one dragon and the entire town would fall over like a pile of sticks. But against much smaller creatures, the wall will do plenty. The food was welcome. Due to Gray's suggestion, they moved cooking fires and such outside and away from the Boreans. Any open flame was a tricky thing to justify. The Boreans hated it like the plague, but Thirians instead did not want to freeze to death. Hopefully, the weather will warm to the point where both parties are comfortable, or another argument might go underway. Njal especially was bitter with the presence of their comfort, it seemed, always trying to find something to complain about to Edlund. This certainly tested his patience, and he would often order him to his abode. Thyra had to be the one to make compromises a lot of the time. Nevertheless, Edlund was beginning to appreciate her input. She knew a lot about the land. Natural foods and, for the better, how to communicate with her people. She was a natural-born leader; hopefully, things will be quelled even further with her guidance. But Edlund found her information on the war far more helpful.

     They were sitting in his temporary tent set up close to the main entrance of the village. It had been a long day of labor as he and the knights helped haul massive logs to be put in place. Edlund was happy to have the chance to relax over some tea, no matter how bland it tasted. Thyra and Njal sat across from him. Thyra gladly took part, though both waited until the tea was cold. Njal frowned at the tea as if it would jump out and attack him.

    Edlund took another tip. "Thank you for coming you two, especially out of the blue like this."

     "Wouldn't have come if it wasn't for Thyra," Njal grumbled. "I won't leave her alone with one of you southerners, not a chance."