Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Homecoming

Once the King’s speech is done, Irvald gave a final salute to the royal and went towards Uzedon. From the current location riding fast before nightfall he can arrive at the location. How convenient would it be if eagle transport is possible. If the resource is available, the trip will only take half a day.

Tirelessly the young knight and his steed galloped away. The warrior did not mind the heat of the sun, dirt on the road and minor scratches while charging in branches and tall bushes. He only took one short break for him and his horse to drink. The heir of Koane, decided to take his meal after the journey. Since riding swiftly could upset the stomach and delays cannot be tolerated.

As the sun is to set, his nostrils began to whiff the familiar scent of Volhan flowers. The aroma is very strong, as if there is an area surrounded by it. Following the fragrance, his eyes widen at view before him. In front is a grove of Volhan trees in full bloom planted uncommonly close together.

No doubt this is the Volhan Grove project. It has been running for ten years but judging the height of the flora, it seems the species have been there far longer. Is it safe to assume the area was discovered? The scholars sent were to study and reciprocate it? That is the most logical reason for the king to decide sending off the brightest men to the middle of nowhere.

The attar was pleasantly drowning as he entered the covered area. His weariness disappeared with the intoxication of the aroma, should he take the chance and eat? He is in a safe space now. Werewolves never charge in Volhan rich areas. Going further in the vicinity, a large wooden cottage can be found.

Irvald dismounted and pulled the steed while walking past the timber fence. Noticing the front porch has a balcony, the knight secured the stallion’s reins there. Patting the horse an assurance that it won’t be abandoned, he proceeded to knock.

An old man answered the door. He seems more senior than his uncle Max. Straightening up, he quickly stated his purpose. “Good evening, I am Irvald Koane of the Ivory Knights infantry one. His highness the king, sent me to escort one of your colleagues.” The youth took out the scroll sealed with the monarch’s stamp. “Here is proof of my mission.”

“Hmm.. Koane you say? You seem too young to be in high risk infantry one. Looks like that’s the weight of the name you bear right son?” The senior male answered with a meek smile. The elder scholar opened the scroll presented. His eyebrows furrowed while reading the contents.

It seemed that the receiver read the parchment more than once. Besides escorting was there other orders? Once the double checking of the document was done, the host fully opened the door. “His majesty said I have to take care of you tonight Sir Irvald.” The young knight nodded and went in the structure. “Make yourself at home, I will feed your horse too.” The elder offered.

“Thank you, are you the one I am to escort home?” The heir of Koane inquired while observing the inner cabin. The wooden walls are immaculate no dust in sight. All the furniture are in place though it already worn out. Even inside the Volhan scent is prominent. Maybe all of the residents here have a good nights sleep. The aroma is so therapeutic.

“My apologies, I am Lord Vesair Nyde. The head of this institute. And no I am not the one you will be escorting back.” The bearded elder explained. “However the person you are looking for is not here yet. He likes to scout the area during this time.”

“As long as it is in within the grove it is safe to go around.” The second knight commented.

The elder chuckled and swayed his head. “It would have been fine that way. But that subordinate of mine is an adventurous one. He would explore outside the grove.”

“Outside the the vicinity? That is dangerous.” The youth commented. “How can he bring himself to danger?” Maybe the aroma can fend of the enemy at a certain perimeter. But werewolves when in extreme hunger can pounce even if intoxicated by Volhan. Even if one is incapable to fight, fatality is expected.

“You must be thinking he is a defenseless old scholar. On contrary, that person is only few years ahead of you, not retirement bound yet. He is a rare breed, that boy can fight.” Lord Versair fondly explained and ushered the visitor to a room. The contents surprised the knight. “We have five stuffed Omegas. Amazing isn’t it?” The host boasted.

“There are ten people in this cottage. We all have an Omega fur coat.” The senior continued and showed a chest full of items which look like skeletal hands. “These things right here our crowning glories. Humanized claws made of pure Canis. Proven lethal once completed.”

There was so much information. A mist all, Irvald decided to ask the inquiry that matters the most.

”Sir, how were you able to acquire all these specimens?” The large preservation bottles did not escape the warrior’s eyes. Inside of it, are those werewolf brains, heart and lungs? There are even two full skeletal models of an Omegas. And is that a full head of a Beta? All these things cannot be harvested if one is not skilled in fighting.    

“Our member is highly skilled. Yesterday was his best night. He took home two Alpha arms.” The head of the facility divulged. “We will be using it to complete the humanized claws.”

“Lord Vesair, you created a handful of the inventions. I am glad it is a success.” The youth stated impressed of the facilities achievements.

“Sir, to be able to accomplish all this, he is a very strong man.” The warrior conceded. The institution leader swayed his head. It is half and half in a way.

“Strong yes, add in agility and flexibility too. Another advantage also is he is very smart.” The senior stated with pride. “He fights while strategizing. Aside from intelligence that person has tons of guts. I often worry for him. But he cannot be stopped.”

The older male then walked towards the door of the assemblage. “Sorry for showing this room before giving you some rest.” The host smiled fondly. “When you said house of Koane, I am aware you are from the first family of Knights.” So what did lineage have to do with this space? “Your clan through the ages have the finest collection of Canis items.”

That statement was true. The ancient the Koane family gathered numerous Canis from all the battles fought. Compared to other nobles whose house bricks are mixed with werewolf bones, the main Koane house is made of pure Canis. That is how much enemies they have defeated.

Legend has it that the Vanieza and Koane house were in contention with the leadership of the land. However the forefather of the knights did not like doing negotiations and human relations. Therefore he conceded in giving the job to Vanieza.

Vaniezans were highly skilled fighters and intelligent. Through their efficient techniques, they were able to formulate the serum from Volhan that enhances the male’s ability. Through the years, the males evolved into adapting the infused potion. The ruling bloodline is a combination of the knights and scholars skills.

The for bearers of the Koane focused on battle skills and weaponry advancement. For decades, the lineage has the best sword smith techniques and armor craftsmanship. As homage to the royal family, the creations are safely kept in the weapon’s room of the castle. But the best Koane made contraptions are branded to be allocated to the members of the main house.

“Lord Vesair, you actually wanted me to evaluate the humanized claws right?” The Koane heir voiced out. It was probably the reason why the host freely showcased it to him. “Sir, I don’t mind delaying dinner. I would gladly inspect them.” The youth offered, arms evaluation and usage has always been the family specialty.

The old man grinned in delight. However he did not want take advantage of the youth who is obviously weary. “I will serve you dinner first son. ” The host declared. “After you can try the contraptions. I think we have one just your size.”

The visitor is ushered to the kitchen. He was served one whole roasted chicken, one loaf of unleavened bread and a big mug of milk. “Sorry, Irvald we don’t have much vegetables in storage.” The host apologized for the lacking menu. “Whenever vegetation is harvested, we all consume it within three days.” The elder chuckled at the revelation. “Our eating habits here is more of straight greens and poultry, boiled root crops or bread and chicken meat.”

“Sir, doesn’t the palace deliver goods to widen your menu and give primary needs?” The knight inquired. It would be inhuman to think that these people are left to fend for themselves. Especially when they doing noble work for the kingdom.

“Only one knight comes to brings seeds.” The elder man sitting across him explained. “Now the second person is you.” The youth felt honored that such level of secrecy is entrusted to him. “Your Uncle Max visit twice a year. Sometimes he would carry also official documents and ten kilos of smoked pork and beef.” The host sighed. “Of course when the treats arrive in two months all of it be consumed. Therefore our only source of protein is the chickens we raise.”

Once the meal is done, the two men returned to the study room. Irvald tried out the humanized claws. Functionality wise it was convenient. The interaction of the piece and his hands are in sync. It was impressive craftsmanship. The item was made with pure consideration of the human hands anatomy. It is definitely the work of a genius. He imagined it with the claws. If one is a skilled close combat fighter, this is highly useful. The facility head was relieved of his review. “It is great to know we did a good job.”

The guest was given a fresh set of clothes. He was lead to the bathing area where a well is located. The cleansing provided tremendous relief. His black locks no longer feel sticky. Finally he smells like human instead of reeking werewolf blood. After washing, he proceed to do the same with his clothes aiming to dry it overnight. Conveniently there is a clothesline nearby to hang the attire.

Judging the stillness of the night, it is quite late. As Irvald is to go back inside the cottage a familiar stench caught his nose. Impossible how can this scent break through the grove? Sniffing once again the smell is strange, it reeks of blood. Werewolf blood. Could a wounded beast wallowed in the area?

Taking a defensive stance as the scent got stronger, the warrior is confident it would not be much of a fight. As the entity got closer, the sound is more of a body being dragged rather than foot steps. Could the creature be severely hurt and crawling? Reaching for an axe, the knight decided to meet the trespasser head on. Farther away from the lodging the better.

Stealthy the fighter approached the malodorous smell. His eyes widened at the sight. A blood covered man is pulling one carcass of Beta by the neck with a rope. Under the moon light his flaming orange hair burned. Humanized claws adorned his appendages. This is him, the adventurous scholar Lord Vesair talked about. His golden eyes glistened despite the darkness and noticed the observer. A fond smirk escaped his lips.

“Oh my, I was not expecting visitors today.” The newly arrived greeted. Letting go of the rope the flamed haired man straightened up and bowed. “Kaema Maal, I assume you are from the Ivory Knights?” Recovering his posture the scholar smiled genuinely. “Please put down the axe.”

Irvald in embarrassment place the axe down. Reciprocating the greeting he introduced himself. “Irvald Koane, I was tasked by the king to escort one scholar back home.”

Golden orbs observed the burly brunette across. The knight looks very young. But it is natural for warriors to be trained early. And where was Max Koane? He was the only one authorized to come here? “Is Lord Max ill?”

“Sir, Lord Max was injured in the latest expedition. I was sent in his place.” The onyx eyed male explained.

“I see, hopefully he recovers well.” The later rebutted. “I assume you are the successor? The king would not entrust you if not.” The younger nodded. “Okay enough of the pleasantries, I have to clean myself and my hunt.”

“Sir, Let me help you.” The brunette offered.

“You just got washed up.” The scholar answered. “But if you insist, its an offer I am willing to take.”

The muscled fighter took one arm of the Beta pulled it up and carried it like a sack. “Knights really are strong. How astounding.”

“Sir, shall I bring it inside?” The youth inquired. The later waved his hands in negation.

“No, take it by the well. I need to bleed it out, skin it and then leave it to burn under the sun as soon as it rises.” The genius explained. “You see, werewolf skin can be made into a durable fabric.”

“Sir, could you teach me how to skin it?” The knight asked. “Once I learn it, I can do the procedure after battles. It sounds advantageous to gather this cloth.”

“Yes indeed. Of course I can instruct you.” The flamed prodigy enthusiastically agreed. “Come let’s get started.”

The duo cut open the pulse points to assure the blood to spill. Then proceeded stab an area and using the skin lining as guide scrapped off the dermis. After successfully removing the furred surface, Irvald laid the carcass on the spot the sunrise rays will first hit. Gathering the skin, Kaema deposited in a big tub and started filling it with water. Then the scholar poured two jars of fragrant liquid. “Don’t touch the contents.” The scholar warned. “This is Volhan acid, the fur will melt and only the leathery part will remain once soaked enough.”

“Sir, when can the fabric be taken out?” The warrior questioned.

“After a week the fur would have melted and the fabric will be leathery in texture.” The golden orb man headed to the well and splashed himself with water. “But the remnants can be soaked continually for three years to make it as breathable as cotton.” The scholar removed his tunic and grabbed some soap. “The textile is as tough as one fourth inch steel but lightweight. Its like second armor.” The speaker continued to scrub his hair and body removing the red stains all over.

The scholar’s body is very lithe and toned. He maybe be slim but showcased strength in beating a Beta and carrying all the way. That is a very huge feat for someone not trained for combat. Strangely enough, no scars can be seen on his body? Does it mean he actually dodges all the enemies and defeats them?

“You should start washing up again Irvald.” The orange head invited. “I will lend you another tunic later.”

“Sir, how come you don’t have any battle scars?” The younger inquired while taking off his stained clothes. As expected of a warrior, his body is covered with numerous scars. Even if he would often use the Volhan salve developed, scarring still occurred.

“That is my healing ability combined with the Volhan salve. It works best when the wound is fresh. After a fight, I quickly do first aid.” The genius elaborated. “Unlike knights, I prey on werewolves which is either injured, travelling alone or at the brink of death. So battling isn’t too difficult.” Golden eyes stared at the lesion bodied man. “If you want I can cure some of your battle marks.” The scholar offered warmly. “ I can’t erase them all but it will be less obvious.”

“Sir, that won’t be necessary.” The younger replied. Removing the traces would be like erasing the battle memories. It is an insult to his fallen comrades.

Once the two are done washing and dried themselves, Kaema handed Irvald a tunic. “Sorry its kind of small. It’s the best I can offer.” The receiver nodded in gratitude.

 “It was a full moon, the fight must have been difficult.” The warrior bobbed his head. “Not much of a talker Irvald?” The flamed prodigy teased. “Or maybe you are just tired? You travelled here as soon as the mission I bet.” The later answered with a yes.

The scholar stretched his arms and yawned. “If that is the case, it has been a long day. Let’s retreat to our beds and sleep.” The genius ushered the guest to his room. “Lord Max usually takes this room every visit. I assume Lord Vesair assigned it to you now.” The knight nodded. Patting the visitor’s shoulder, since the two are leveled in height the elder bid the guest goodnight.

As Kaema laid on his bed mind wondering. Who will Irvald escort home?

                                                                                         -o-

The king was excited to get home. The week has not yet passed. He can still partake in the thanks giving of his first daughter’s eighteenth birthday. Receiving positive response from his men, the Calvary without rest headed back. In their speed they have reached Vanieza overnight and the king did not bother to do the traditional parade. The ruler ordered all his surviving fighters to go home and spend time with their family.

Reaching the castle the monarch hurriedly cleaned himself up. He must be presentable once his wife and daughters see him again. The royal ordered his butler to prepare breakfast with the queen and princesses in audience. There is so much to talk about with his ladies.

Once dressed up, the king asked for the royal barber to shave his stubble. For some reason the queen disliked him growing a beard. After the all the grooming was completed the rooster crowed alarming the household to wake up. “Your majesty, it might take an hour before the mistresses finish preparing.” The butler explained.

“I shall wait by my lounge chair. Go get me a foot stool Theo.” The king ordered his aid.

Getting his legs into a position. The monarch told the butler to leave. The ruler breathed in and relaxed his blues by closing it. He carefully leaned his head not to mess up the well combed black hair. His well defined jaw relaxed while unconsciously licking his pink lips. The king’s features are very evident with the princesses. The Vaniezan beauty as people would call it.

After an hour Theo came back to fetch the ruler. As he arrived in the dining hall, the three important women in his life were seated. He gazed at his wife. Her brown stresses is vibrant as before. She might have some fine lines due to age but her black eyes are as piercing as always. However some thing seems off. Even his daughters seem tense. Is it because of the gift?

“Theo, Gretchen and everyone exit the room. I need to speak with my family privately.” The servants did so and the king took his seat. Once settled. “I assume this atmosphere is due to my gift. I am giving you all permission to speak.”

The queen spoke first. “Kieth what kind of idea was that? Gifting your daughters under garments? They are no longer children but adolescents.” The matriarch explained. “Was that some sick joke?”

The king smirked at his wife’s question. The gesture infuriated the lady of the house. Her vein is obviously popping out. “Now, now Arha. That undergarment is made of werewolf skin. It was fabricated to be similar to cotton. I am not sure how it fitted.”

“Father, werewolf skin?” Luvelia muttered. “It means that cloth has special features.” The elder expressed curiously.

“Yes, durable, as tough as one fourth of steel and non-flammable.” The king answered. “Luvie will be debuting outside the palace. It is for extra security. While Natie is doing well in training, it will be additional protection during missions.”

“Arha, darling sorry for not explaining it before hand.” The ruler stated while chuckling. “The servants probably thought I am some pervert in a way.” It was such a careless move for his part.

“That will be taken care of darling.” The queen replied. “Only the handmaids know. They are sworn to secrecy.” Smirking the lady sovereign added. “They were very shook too, but I will explain it to them later.”

The king raised his bell. “Shall I call Theo in now so breakfast can be served?” Nathalia quickly raised her hand to speak. Receiving a nod she continued.

“Father can we have a picnic in the Spring garden this weekend? At lunch or afternoon tea please?” The younger requested. “It is not too late to celebrate Luvie’s birthday.”

“Natie, your father will be very busy.” The ruler reached for his wife’s hand.

“I think that is a splendid idea Natie. Let’s have afternoon tea. Noon is kind of a scorching time.” The patriarch commented. “It’s been awhile since we all went out.” Once the plan was settled, the ruler rang the bell. The servants came in and brought in a delightful breakfast the whole family heartily enjoyed.

                                                                                        -o-

“Excuse me, you are going to escort me home?” Kaema asked for the fourth time while having breakfast with the guest and his colleagues. The knight nodded while chewing his food. “Why me?” The flamed prodigy questioned.

“It’s wonderful news Kaema.” Lord Vesair expressed. “Maybe his highness wants you for something in the kingdom.” The elder explained. “If you get a chance, please talk in behalf of the ones here to have the same opportunity.”

The genius exhaled. “I don’t know if such a meeting can occur.” Golden orbs scanned the faces of each person present. “But I promise to try and make a way to share the sentiment. I believe everyone deserves a break for working so hard.” The colleagues smiled at the sincere statement. If there was anything Kaema Maal was known for, it is keeping his word.

“Lord Vesair, what should I bring?” The youngest scholar inquired. Actually the only thing they have yet to show the king is the humanized claws. But the final pieces are yet to be attached. He is the only one who knows to do finishing touch. It means the flamed prodigy has to take it with him.

“Kaema, you have to take all the humanized claws.” The leader confirmed as if reading his mind. “Take your Beta and Alpha bones. It is a proof of achievement. Use it to your hearts wish.”

The facility head glanced at the knight. “Your steed will not mind extra weight Irvald?” The knight swayed his head. Speaking of horses, it has been a since his ride journeyed so far. Will it be a liability?

“Mine will be trouble though. It has been ten years since Lima travelled. He cannot match up with Irvald’s stallion.” The golden orb male expressed concern. “At average speed we might arrive in Vanieza after two days. Would that be a bit troublesome?”

“Lord Kaema, we don’t have much of the choice.” The young knight stated. “Werewolves have been subjugated for now. It will take a month for them to regroup. Until then we will be safe.”

The flamed prodigy was in deep thought. Maybe it is time to reveal Griffin? Using the flying aid they will be in Vanieza at the end of the day. All the items needed can be carried too. Come to think of it, if he leaves using the horses, Griffin might not be able to track him. It is best to take the huge bird today. “Everyone I have something to show after breakfast. It is very interesting.”

After the meal Kaema lead the group to his familiar spot in the grove. He whistled loudly while holding up his arms in the air. In a few seconds a loud screeching can be heard. As it draws closer the breeze began to get stronger. Looking above a majestic giant eagle appeared. All the scholars are awe while the knight was unfazed.

As the beast landed, it leaned in to Kaema as if requesting for some petting. “Everyone meet Griffin.” The bird gawked enthusiastically. “I met him in this area years ago and have been taking care of him since.”

“He is the reason you have been hunting?” Lord Vesair clarified. He always knew the prodigy had some motivation. However he was not expecting as big and mythical as this. “I must say. You outdid yourself with Griffin.”

“Irvald, we will ride Griffin with the items for quicker travel.” The scholar offered. “Once everything is settled in Vanieza, with Griffin will go back and get our horses.” Doubt seemed to creep on the knights face. “Griffin just needs to familiarize the way to Vanieza. Once he knows, I can call him from there too.” There is still question all over the warriors features. “Listen Irvald, we go home now unload and return immediately to get our horses.”

“But lord Kaema if we do that we will be travelling by night.” The fighter reasoned.

“Then let’s spend a night with our family in Vanieza and leave the next day?” the scholar suggested. He really needs to bring all the goods to the king.

“I am not sure if his majesty will permit me to leave after.” The warrior confessed. It was the truth. Kaema was used to moving freely in the grove, he forgot in Vanieza everyone follows the rulers orders.

“Now that you mention it, that will be a problem.” The genius agreed.

 Deep in thought, Lord Vesair shared a suggestion. “The baggage will be loaded to Griffin and will follow the two riders on their horses. The horses have no extra weight to carry they can run faster. It can lessen the travel by half a day. Once they are at the gates, Irvald will usher Kaema’s horse and ride Griffin. This is to calm the bird to the new environment it will experience.

The two agreed to the idea. Griffin was ushered near the cottage and the valuables were loaded. Once everything was secured. Kaema gave Lord Vesair and each colleague a hug, promising he will comeback to work again with them soon. Hopefully he can express to the king their desire to come home. The facility members bid then farewell and blessings. Finally Kaema Maal was coming home.

                                                                                            -o-

The royal family was enjoying tea in the spring garden when the fastest messenger arrived in the venue. Kneeling to the ground the man explained. “Your majesty, Sir Irvald Koane has returned.” The king raised an eyebrow. He was not expecting him so soon. Did he not complete the mission? “Sire, the second knight has a scholar with him. His hair is flaming orange. The two of them were accompanied by a huge eagle.”

Speedily the four member royal family proceeded to the palace open assembly area. As the sun slowly set in the horizon, Luvelia’s heart clenched seeing the familiar shade of hair. The king ordered the two men to rise from kneeling and look up to the monarch’s space. Golden eyes glistened coated with gentleness. He has not changed after all the time has passed. A relieved smile appeared on the crowned princess lips. A gesture immediately caught by onyx orbs solely focused on her. While the younger sibling curiously looked at the two contrasting men. One flashy and the other reserved.

“Welcome back valiant men.” The king declared proudly. “We have a lot of things to talk about.”