The morning after the end of the festival, Master Whitehair, King Garret, Maude, and Monica were sitting in recently added chairs in Von's room. The excitement from last night still evident in Monica's face. She and Von had been talking about it all morning.
The door opened and looking tired, Jayr slipped in still wearing his regal whites from the day before. "The response to our appeal just arrived. The answer was the same. The White Council is still deadlocked. Without a member there to cast the deciding vote, they won't give us permission or the location of the grotto. It is my intent to travel to the council's location to plead on your behalf personally, Von."
Looking at the angry look on both Von and Monica's face, Garret spoke, "They have already been made aware of my permission. For what reason can they not make a decision? Why is there a deadlock?"
Master Whitehair gulped. He had also seen the look of intense rage on the two youths. Worry lines began to show on his face as he started to talk. "Currently, there are only twelve members of the council present. Two of these members will always side against each other. Two more are elders who hold the positions only because they are too stubborn to vacate their positions for fear some hot-headed youth lacking wisdom would fill their spots. These two do nothing but abstain from casting their ballot. The Archbishop, Chester Allen, as a member of the clergy, believes the grotto bypasses the will of the gods and should never be used. His loyal sycophant, Varlen, votes identically. Masters Karl and Jania were part of the escort when prince Kenric made his journey to the grotto years ago. They both believe no good can come from the grotto as they have not heard of anyone surviving the experience in the last 300 years. Master Nicholas is the youngest member of the council and doesn't understand the grotto nor how it works. He doesn't believe in superstition and therefor, votes against any proposal dealing with it. It is his vote Jayr will seek to sway. Out of the remaining five, four want desperately to see the grotto work, the last, Whiteney, just hates the church, so any time his vote can aggravate the archbishop, he will do so." With more understanding, the two children's faces returned to a calmer demeanor. Aware of the change, Master Whitehair let out a sigh.
Von blurted, "Doesn't the king have any say in the decision?"
Jayr shook his head. "The grotto is theoretically beyond the province of any kingdom or empire. As it belongs to the school of healing, the White Council is the proper authority."
Looking puzzled, Monica asked, "why are there an even number of people to decide? Wouldn't this make a lot of problems since a tie can occur so often?"
Looking at the elder, the red-headed healer asked, "Someone older than I should answer this. Master?"
Standing then pacing, the hall master began, "the council is actually made up of fifteen individuals. The thirteenth member is thought to be the oldest has they have been in absentia for so long, the council is uncertain if they still live. The fourteenth member is the silver dragon, Zyntekaresta, she is the guardian of the north, protecting the continent from the spawn of the wicked northern rift. She has seldom attended the council in the last few hundred years. The final member of the council is unknown except to the last two members mentioned, thus even should they show up at the hall, they are unlikely to be recognized. Thus, a council of fifteen would prevent any stalemate except in the case of an abstention. I believe with Jayr's words, the council should see that you should be permitted to enter, Von."
Standing, King Garret looked about. "Today after settling the distribution of the sponsorships and the official recognition of the new pages, we shall leave in two groups. Master Jayr shall ride swiftly to the White Council Hall, and the rest will go with me towards Marsgate. Once the council has decided again, Jayr shall send a message to Master Whitehair and meet us on the road based on the directions he receives."
Everyone nodded in agreement. "Von, we shall attach your chair to the back of my carriage so you shall have it in the capital. Please provide a list to Monica of things you would like to bring with you. It should fit in a single chest. Monica, bring what you need as well as long as it will fit into a chest. Master Whitehair, I presume you have a wagon for travel?"
The hall master nodded, "Yes. I don't use it often, as I don't travel heavy. What I need for a few days will fit within saddle bags."
"Good, I shall meet you here later. Monica, we have some awards to pass along." With this, King Garret opened the door and left. Monica quickly followed behind him.
The courtyard of the healer hall buzzed with anticipation as Von was brought out. Von was dressed in his finest clothing. He looked at the carriage waiting to take him to a new place. The carriage itself was an opulent display of craftsmanship, gleaming in polished gold and adorned with the royal insignia. Its doors stood open, revealing the plush interior awaiting its passengers. With deliberate yet gentle movements, the attendants, began to lift Von from his wheelchair. The process was carried out with utmost care and precision, ensuring Von felt supported and secure throughout the process. As he is raised from the seated position, Von's eyes met King Garret's, inside the carriage.
King Garret then gestured towards the forward-facing seat indicating this special seat is reserved for Von. The carriage, a symbol of opulence and regality, awaits the young passenger with its doors wide open. The attendants, working in harmony, navigate Von toward the carriage, taking deliberate steps to ensure his comfort and safety.
As Von is carefully lowered into the plush, a sense of achievement and excitement radiates from him. The king watches approvingly, acknowledging the significance of this moment, not everyone has the opportunity to ride in such luxury.
With Von comfortably settled in the royal carriage, the attendants secured the safety straps, ensuring his well-being during the upcoming journey. King Garret, satisfied with the seamless execution, offers a nod of approval before joining the other children in the carriage.
Shortly thereafter, Jayr poked his head in to wish him a safe journey and reminded him to hold on as this ride was often bumpy despite the opulence.
Monica arrived next. Today she wore a flowing blue dress with her hair up. Von found it unusual to see her not dressed in breeches. Her steps were measured and cautious as she climbed into the carriage. She immediately took her place beside Von. The other children follow suit, guided by the king's gentle encouragement. The atmosphere is charged with a sense of privilege and awe as the youngsters settle into the luxurious seats, their eyes wide with wonder at the elegant interior. The realization that they are about to embark on an extraordinary journey created a mixture of excitement and curiosity.
King Garret, displaying a warm smile to all present, closed the carriage door behind the children. The murmurs of the crowd outside gradually faded as the carriage door shut, leaving the occupants enveloped in a cocoon of regal splendor. The horses whinnied and stomp their hooves in readiness as the carriage, now filled begins its stately procession through Milltown heading for the bridge leading toward the king's road and finally, Marsgate.
Once they crossed the noisy wooden bridge, Von's mother pulled alongside the carriage and looked inside smiling before moving past to take her position at the front of the royal conveyance. The remainder of the escort took their places to the sides and rear, not expecting danger, but vigilant none-the-less.
As they traveled, the clattering of hooves and creaking of wheels echoed through the open air. The road itself was a winding path meandering through quaint villages less than half the size of the baronial Milltown. Upon passing through each village, the people paused in their daily activities to stare at the royal procession, their faces reflecting a mix of reverence and awe. Those closest found themselves lucky, having caught a glimpse of their king.
When the honor guard and carriage rode through each village, not just the king, but the children also, waved, seeing the new places which many had only seen as dots on a map. Seeing children within, the village children waved excitedly in return, their faces lighting up with wonder at the sight of the magnificent procession. Some rushing to the side of the road to introduce themselves to the children within.
The cobblestones, weathered by centuries of use, created a bumpy pathway for the carriage. Near nightfall, the procession came to a stop. Looking out, Von noticed despite being deep within the darkened forest, an inn was present. This appearance of which was a haven untouched by the passage of time. The air is thick with the scent of pine, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves casts a gentle glow upon the cobblestone road leading travelers past this hidden gem.
The inn appeared as if it had emerged organically from the landscape, its wooden exterior blending seamlessly with the surrounding trees. Vines adorned with colorful wildflowers climb the walls, adding a touch of natural beauty to the rustic facade. The entrance marked by a wrought-iron sign swaying in the breeze, announcing the inn's name with an air of whimsy.
The inn's windows, were covered with wooden shutters, allowing glimpses into a cozy interior. The scent of a crackling hearth wafted through the air, promising warmth and comfort within. Wooden tables and benches were scattered around a small courtyard, inviting guests to linger and savor the tranquility of the forest surroundings.
Cobblestones, worn smooth over the centuries, guided the procession toward the entrance. The path is lined with quaint lanterns, their soft glow offering a warm welcome even in the midst of the forest's shadows. As they approached, the rustling of leaves, could be heard.
Once the others had filed out of the ride, the attendants, again taking meticulous care, unstrapped Von from his seat and lowered him from the carriage. Two knights had taken his wheelchair from the back and held it firmly as the attendants lowered him gently to his seat. Monica then took it upon herself to push Von along the cobblestone path to the entrance of the inn.
Upon entering, the interior of the inn revealed a charming blend of rustic elegance. Wooden beams traversed the ceiling, and a large stone fireplace stood as the focal point, casting flickering light upon the walls. Quilted tapestries adorned the walls, and the furniture, crafted from rich, dark wood, exuded a timeless quality making it impossible for Von to determine how long the inn had been in existence.
The innkeeper, a middle-aged friendly figure with a welcoming smile, stood behind a wooden counter adorned with brass keys and a guestbook. A grey tabby lounged lazily on a nearby windowsill, seemingly unfazed by the comings and goings of visitors. The aroma of hearty stew and freshly baked bread was emanating from the kitchen, reminding Von that he hadn't eaten since lunch. enticing travelers to partake in the inn's hospitality.
Bowing, the innkeeper stated, "Your majesty, how was the festival? Your healer arrived several hours ago so I have prepared rooms for your party. The one on this floor has been reserved for your guest as requested by your healer and a pair of additional beds added for attendants."
With the passing of a handful of gold coins, King Garret responded, "You have once again done a great job preparing for my arrival. Thank you."
With this, the innkeep's eyes grew wide. He thought the king had tipped well a few weeks ago, but this was even larger.
Once the king's party was settled in their rooms, the guests gather in a communal dining area for a satisfying meal that reflects the culinary offerings of the local area. The innkeeper's wife, a plump jovial figure clad in simple attire and a warm smile guided them to a long wooden table set with pewter plates, wooden utensils, and sturdy goblets.
The first course is a robust vegetable pottage, a thick and flavorful stew made from seasonal vegetables such as leeks, carrots, and turnips. Fragrant herbs and spices, gathered from the herb garden to the rear of the inn, in addition to those gathered from the nearby forest infused the broth, creating a comforting aroma whetting the appetites of everyone present. Accompanying the pottage were slices of hearty brown bread, freshly baked and still warm from the inn's kitchen.
The main course was the centerpiece of the evening feast—a succulent roasted game, perhaps a plump venison, seasoned with a blend of herbs and slow-cooked over an open hearth then served with a savory sauce made from pan drippings, red wine, and herbs, enhancing the flavors of the dish. Accompanying the roast are sides of root vegetables, lightly seasoned and roasted to perfection.
As the party enjoyed the meal, a selection of cheeses and freshly picked apples and pears, were presented as a delightful interlude before dessert. For the sweet conclusion, a honeyed pastry filled with spiced fruits was offered, the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth to satisfy the palate.
Once the hearty feast was completed, the king and his guests retired to their accommodations for a restful night's sleep with the escorts taking shifts near the entrance to the inn. Von's room was a comfortable chamber with wooden beams overhead and tapestries adorning the walls. The main bed, adorned with coarse but warm linens, served as the focal point of the room, flanked by two additional beds, one occupied by Master Healer Whitehair, the other by Von's mother were located behind screens in the large room. Each of the three beds appeared quite comfortable. For Von, being finally able to not be sitting made his bottom feel much better. Despite the comfort of his chair and the seat in the carriage, he was still quite sore from sitting.
He found great solace in the warmth beneath thick woolen blankets knowing tomorrow would be a repeat of today. He was determined to make the most of not sitting down. As the aches left his body, his dreams of walking again were getting closer.