A Shore Too Far - By Kevin Manus-Pennings Page 0,15

and begin trade with the Kullobrini, particularly in the list of items that came up in our talks. I also sent word to Eric to send some city healers to our colonists-gone-awry and hide among them some of his infantry as assistants so that we might spy inside the tent city itself.

Almost the moment my talks were over, Gonnaban had asked to set up cavalry patrols along the borders specified by myself and Eric. I agreed, but I was shocked by his distaste for these new people. While I was still astounded at the color of their skin, I could not help admiring a people that had conquered the Hard Water and had a navy so large it could spare 200 ships for the protection of colonists. Likewise, as we retook our little spy hill, we noted that the Kullobrini also had a farlook, but instead of a crude leather cylinder, the device was a cunning series of metal cylinders that collapsed in on itself.

Gonnaban was unimpressed by their accomplishments and would shake his head in disdain whenever he watched the tents for long.

A few hours after Eric departed, a messenger arrived from Pulgatt’s fleet. A Kullobrini ship had approached one of ours and given the same story as Captain Eglanna: would-be colonists beset with disease. The messenger also said that Pulgatt had dispatched a ship to gather information from Kulkerra and the fleet’s actions there. The ship should return tonight. There still had been no word of the ships sent to find other approaching fleets.

The news of two consistent stories did not temper Gonnaban’s attitude toward the Kullobrini. He muttered constantly about “bad breeding” and “no respect.” I left him to his temper and dealt with the series of Kullobrini messengers that kept us informed about the Kullobrini’s city of tents or came to ask questions or clarify some point for Captain Eglanna. Among the messengers was Kannafen, the Ujors’ shield-bearing advisor. He arrived at my tent in the early afternoon, his shield still catching the sun.

“Forgive the intrusion, General,” he began.

“Not at all,” I said, nodding to dismiss my soldier who escorted the older man into my tent. “What can I do for you?”

“I do not mean to cause trouble, but how flexible is Prince Eric?” he asked, setting his shield at his feet. “The brothers are convinced that four days will be enough time to clean our ships, but.…”

“But you don’t share their optimism,” I finished.

“They are young,” he said, “though both able sailors.”

“I might be able to persuade Prince Eric to grant a few more days,” I said, “but you should strive to complete the task in the time allotted.”

“I understand,” he said, stooping to pick up his shield.

“Your shield, the crossed quills, does it have a meaning to your people?” I asked.

“Advisors of a certain rank are awarded such shields,” said Kannafen. “We believe that knowledge is a great protection and so it symbolizes my service to the two brothers.”

“Knowledge is certainly powerful,” I agreed.

“Yes,” he said, smiling broadly. “Yes, it is.”

The elderly servant Esmir even made an appearance, ostensibly to deliver a bottle of Kullobrini wine for me as a gift.

“Not as good as what you might be used to, but it’ll knock on your door as nicely as you please,” the old woman bubbled.

In the distance, Gonnaban watched us. He shook his head and turned away.

“Thank Captain Ujor for me,” I said, sitting at my war table. “How fares your battle with the disease? I’m sorry our healers have not yet arrived.”

“Oh, we’ll manage, though more than one will be lost,” she said. “Though I reckon that’s the way of battles, eh, miss?” And she winked and was off, riding one of those tall, loping horses as though born to it.

***** ***** *****

That evening, Abringol’s healers arrived in brightly colored wagons that reeked of herb and poultice. I instructed them to make camp to the south of the hill I had reclaimed so that my cavalry might be between the healers and any trouble.

Near shore, I could see Gonnaban speaking with our beach camp. He and the other soldiers would laugh and gesture at the herd of tents grazing on our land. Then one or more of the men would gesture dismissively.

Soon thereafter, Gwey and a resplendent array of Abringol’s merchants rode in, their own wagons loaded with wares. Gwey rode in the lead, enjoying the power of his position. He brought his band to a halt outside my tent and presented himself