A World Apart The Jake Thomas Trilogy - By Steven A. Tolle Page 0,96

but does present some problems." He glanced at Dominic, who nodded. "I received a message from the palace today, requesting your presence for a visit with the princess."

Jake sat up at that, his mood improving as he recalled Keria's beauty. "When am I supposed to go?" He paused, as a thought came to him. "Why would that be a problem?" Jake asked.

"You are requested to appear tomorrow morning. That would mean that Norlan will need to release you from your duties with him." Jonas said, looking over at Norlan.

"That's not a problem, Jonas." Norlan said as he smiled. "Madalin is already on me to give Jake more time off."

Jonas nodded, then continued, turning back to Jake. "Jake, I said it presents some problems for a couple of reasons. First, you are not familiar with palace protocol or, honestly, the palace intrigue. An innocent remark could be seen as a promise or a threat, depending on who you are speaking to. You will need to be extra cautious on what you say."

"Secondly, while it is likely that the princess simply wants to talk to you about your tale, the fact remains that she is less free than any other to select her friends or direct her own life." Jonas said, somewhat sadly. "My concern is that she may be using you as part of some small rebellion against those restrictions. Just be careful when you are with her, Jake."

Jake nodded. "I think I understand your concerns, Jonas. I'll keep them in the back of my mind."

"Then we are agreed?" Jonas asked the others. Norlan and Dominic nodded.

"I'll come by Norlan's in the morning to take you over, boy." Dominic said. "Just listen to what Jonas is telling you. He knows the court politics better than most."

"I'll take Jake back to the house." Norlan said, standing, gesturing for Jake to do the same. "Madalin will make my life miserable if she does not get a chance to make sure he has the proper clothing if he's going to the palace."

...

After parting ways with Helman and Dern, Almos was enjoying the late afternoon weather as he headed back to his aunt and uncle's house. His relatives had been hosting him while he did his apprenticeship. He was excited to tell his cousins about Dominic's visit today. He still could not believe that Jake, who Almos now considered a friend, was the legendary warrior's apprentice.

"Excuse me, lad." A voice called out to him, interrupting his thoughts. Almos stopped, looked around and found himself facing a thin, white-haired older man, dressed in fine clothes, with several pouches hanging from his belt. A large fat man loomed behind him, a cudgel resting on his shoulder.

"Can I help you?" Almos asked politely.

"It is possible." The man said, a smile on his face. "Are you the apprentice who also trains with Dominic?"

"No, I'm not him." Almos said, laughing. "You want Jake. Can I ask what you need; maybe I can help?"

"You are a kind lad, but no." The man said, patting Almos on the shoulder. "I have something for Dominic, so I need the other boy. Can I come by the smithy tomorrow afternoon to speak with him?"

"He only works there in the mornings." Almos replied quickly. "He and Dominic practice at the training grounds in the afternoon."

"Mornings are a tough time for me, since I do most of my business then. I won't be able to get on the training grounds." The man mused, rubbing his chin. "Do you know where the boy stays, maybe I could stop by there to speak with him?"

"He is staying with Master Norlan's family." Almos said hesitantly, slightly confused by the point of the man's questions. "They live up the street from the smithy."

"Thank you, lad." The man reached into a pouch and pulled out a gold coin. "For your help. I just ask that you keep this conversation to yourself." He dropped it into Almos' hand.

"If you wish." Almos replied happily, staring at the gold and thinking about what he could buy. This was turning into a great day. He was still a bit confused, though. "Why can't I tell anyone about you?"

"I want it to be a surprise." The older man said, smiling deeply.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Jake, standing near Norlan's chair in the front room, unconsciously ran his hands down the front of his silk doublet, a rich cobalt blue, making sure the buttons were properly connected for the fifth or sixth time. He had been standing there watching out of