Chapter 44

  Hektor found the Glengardian visitors to be much more reasonable in contrast to the Tritons.

  Arriving a day after the Tritons, they had the good sense of visiting alongside their Ambassador Zilef, who had vouched for the new faces of Lords Granwood and Appleton accompanying the Ladies Garland and Stillrivers.

  Arlo Zilef had resided in Faymoren as a representative of Glengard for the better part of two decades. Hektor was thus familiar with the Glengardian Ambassador, having seen him over the years when he came to conduct business in the castle. More so, Zilef had always stood out with the Glengardian custom of painting around his eyes and possessing the signature Glengardian trait of having slightly pointed eartips. He also sported the longest hair Hektor had seen on a man.

  Though beyond exchanging pleasantries, Hektor knew little else about the ambassador.

  The ensuing gathering of Glengardians and Ithicans had been a civil one. Mostly a show of face to the Duchess and her soon to be ennobled son. Expectedly, there were many a congratulations offered and gifts exchanged amongst the two parties.

  Somewhat expectedly, the visitors were starstruck by the Duchess. The lords and ladies were polite and respectful towards Hektor, but it was clear that his mother was the celebrity that they were excited to rub shoulders with.

  Which suited Hektor just fine. He had been apprehensive of some friction as both the houses of Garland and Stillrivers were amongst those who had vied for Gwen’s hand in the past. But he had been pleasantly surprised by the ladies who had indicated, surreptitiously, that their families fostered no hard feelings on losing out on the Croft heiress. They went out of their way to express their support along the thinking of ‘better the Duchess of Faymoren than the Tritons’.

  Hektor took their words with a pinch of salt. Nevertheless, it reflected well on the Garland and Stillriver families to send forth their ladies rather than their sons who had been denied by the Crofts. Unlike Hans Weis and Niklas Lang.

  Across the recent years, Ithica and Glengard had nurtured friendly ties. While not out and out allies, the two nations had sided together or come to each other’s aide more often than not. And it showed as Hektor observed the foreigners.

  Whereas the Tritons came across as rivals, the Glengardians came across as partners in crime. Hektor could imagine it, that anything of actual importance had long been discussed and settled amongst the nations’ hierarchy and that all this was just for show. A ploy at maintaining appearances.

  Amidst all the political intrigue and web of intricacies, Hektor was content to play the part of the unassuming pawn who was overlooked in the shadows of the more powerful players of the game.

  And while Hektor wanted no part of it, he had come to know better. He had realized that his foreseeable future was entrenched in politics and the best he could do was to endure it and tread carefully.

  The Glengardians were not the only people that Hektor was introduced to. Far from it.

  Hektor’s schedule was progressively inundated with meet and greets with all sorts of people. From aristocrats to politicians, bankers, merchants, artisans, entrepreneurs and intellectuals, there was a constant stream of people that Hektor was scheduled to meet at Sabina’s orders.

  Hektor felt that his actual social debut had long preceded his birthday with the crowds of people he was subjected to on the daily.

  The reason for such socializing was simple and necessary in that Sabina wanted to expand Hektor’s catalogue of contacts. Such connections could prove vital for Hektor’s countship in Roheim. Sabina was helping pave the way with introductions, but it would be up to Hektor to work out whom to trust, to cultivate fruitful relationships and make the most of the people around him.

  Hektor thought it heartless to only relate with people by a measure of their usefulness and worth, but pragmatism implored him to understand that such was the way of the world. People used people and the world went round. It was simple economics and Hektor quickly got over his flimsy misgivings and gave the task its due diligence.

  Alongside improving his list of contacts, Hektor also finalized the last people to join his entourage in Roheim.

  At the ready, there was Thadeus to join him as an advisor alongside Marolyn Lloyds who was to serve as his second. Sir Gideon was to be his protector, his shadow.

  The couple of Earnest and Ruby Wicks had already settled as stewards of the new household. Knight Quincy had also gone ahead with a few knights in training to recruit and train a sizeable force under the new count’s name. Not to forget Jamie.

  Since then, Hektor had worked alongside Sabina and his advisors in filling out the remaining postings. From the more conventional professions, these included an accountant, doctor, lawyer and civil engineer amongst others.

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  Then there were the rarer listings of healer, alchemist, court wizard, and enchanter. Hektor could have barely afforded the services of one by his lonesome, let alone all of them. It was only possible due to Sabina’s generosity in paying their salaries and the willingness of those chosen at her behest that Hektor had a retinue that would have been the envy of any marquis, let alone a count.

  All in all, there were about two dozen people who had been arranged by Sabina to accompany Hektor to Roheim and help him in his reign.

  As the days counted down to single digits leading up to his birthday, rather than trepidation and anxiety, Hektor felt a bittersweet melancholy at the impending departure and a sense of loss.

  Leaving the only home he had ever known. Walking away from the people whom he cared for. Separating from his mother.

  In the search of new horizons. Unknown horizons.

  Hektor was afraid. And in that fear he didn’t want to leave. But the last few weeks had opened his eyes to the truth that he had to move on. That it was necessary.

  Too long had he lingered. Too long had he hidden away. It was time, time for change, for taking a chance. Time to be brave.

  With the clock ticking, he came to cherish the time he had left with those he was leaving behind. Most of all his mother, but everyone close to him rose in his appreciation. From Nazeer to Aunt Delia, Missus Hudson and his many tutors.

  Hektor made sure to visit those whom he had stayed with and learnt from when he had left the castle. The Hatfields who took him on their farm as an extra hand. Scholar Hiram for helping him help others in the church. Doctor Emerson letting him tend to the unfortunates at her clinic. Mister Armstrong introducing him to the basics of a smithy and the joy of crafting. Miss Liza at the public library sharing her love of books. Mister Clarky at his offices showcasing the life of the working middleclass. Mister Bollard with his crew displaying the wonders of construction.

  There were others and Hektor was shocked at their number. For a supposed recluse, he was surrounded by people who cared for him, far more than he realized. Overcome with gratitude, he felt blessed for having them in his life. And also a little ashamed, feeling that he hadn’t repaid their devotion and commitment.

  He thanked them, but could never out and out say his goodbyes. They understood.

  Then there was the city itself.

  Hektor had never left Faymoren, never ventured beyond its borders or known any home besides.

  He barely had the time, but took every opportunity to go about the city whenever he could to simply take it in. Hektor visited his favorite places and memorable spots, but hadn’t the time to linger and reminisce. He missed his feet doing the walking, as he was pressed to use carriages or go horseback in the little time afforded to him before returning to the castle.

  Like he would its people, Hektor would miss his home.

  Hektor was about done with his last exercises that a subdued hush spread across the training fields.

  The cause very much evident as Hans Weis and Otto Kaspar were seen approaching the barracks along with their guards. At spotting Hektor, they made a beeline for him.

  Gideon appeared almost out of thin air to stand beside Hektor, flanked by Captain Ferdinand on the other side.

  The Tritons walked up to Hektor, with Hans leading. “Good morrow,” he greeted with a toothy smile.

  Hektor did his best to project confidence, but found it unlikely to match the impressive Hans in his sweat stained loose attire.

  “Good morning, Lord Weis and Mister Kaspar. Gentlemen,” he addressed the subordinates behind them.

  Hans delayed speaking, raking his eyes over assembly of guards and soldiers who had paused in their training to observe the newcomers. His gaze did linger on the women present, but he didn’t stare long enough to be rude.

  “You are an early riser, Hektor,” Hans commented. “Hope I am not interrupting.”

  “You are not, Lord Weis. I am just about finished with my morning regimen.”

  “Excellent!” proclaimed Hans. “What do you say to exchanging a few pointers?” he offered, placing a hand on the pommel of his sword in a practiced pose.

  “I’m afraid, I must decline,” Hektor refused easily. “I am untrained and would only waste your time.”

  “Oh, I wouldn’t mind imparting a lesson or two,” Hans insisted.

  “Thank you, but no, Lord Weis,” Hektor said with a smile plastered on.

  The outright refusal irked Hans and dulled his friendliness. “Why not?” he asked, acting inquisitive. Otto remained a quiet observer, but thought that Hans was being a touch heavy-handed.

  “I am needed elsewhere,” Hektor answered politely. “And I simply do not wish to fight, Lord Weis.”

  “Do not be afraid, Hektor,” Hans taunted with a with a condescending smile. “I will not hurt you.”

  “I am sure you won’t, Lord Weis. But accidents do happen.”

  To his credit, Hans didn’t show his frustration. “Are you a pacifist?” he asked with an understanding expression that came across as insulting. “Or are you suspicious of me and my kin?” he goaded, waving a hand at his entourage.

  “I suppose,” Hektor replied vaguely in the affirmative.

  Used to Hektor’s tricks, Hans wasn’t surprised by his candid answer. “You wound me,” he spoke in jest, holding his chest. “Are you impugning my honor?”

  Hektor tilted his head. “When have I besmirched you, Lord Weis?” he asked, projecting that he was unfairly wronged.

  “Then why deny my friendship?”

  “Pardon me for not making friends by refusing to fight you,” Hektor jousted.

  Hans grinned. “As good as any way to knowing a man.”

  “Unfortunate then that I am still young,” Hektor retorted with mock regret.

  “I never deigned to fight you. That would be just cruel! I merely offered to educate,” Hans talked over Hektor.

  “Oh, I misunderstood. Then forgive me, Lord Weis, but I would much rather be trained by those entrusted by my mother,” Hektor indicated to Captain Ferdinand and Sir Gideon at his sides.

  Hans stared the two men down, before turning to Hektor. “So evasive, Hektor,” he tutted. “If I didn’t know better, others might say you craven.”

  “They are entitled to their opinion,” Hektor agreed promptly, not giving the chance of a reaction from his side. “And I would still stand by them,” he referred to the people on his side.

  “Would you only do what your mother tells you to?” Hans continued the volley.

  “Won’t you?” Hektor answered back.

  A genuine laugh escaped Hans and he was forced to give an acknowledging nod. “Shame I can’t change your mind,” he conceded heartily, loosening his stance. “I enjoyed our jousting,” he spoke gaily as if sharing a joke amongst friends.

  Hektor mimicked him. “As did I, Lord Weis. By your leave,” Hektor inclined to leave.

  “Of course,” Hans stepped aside with a smile.

  Hektor readily left the training fields without further ado. The Tritons stayed behind to commit to the act that they had come for a bit of practice.

  After limbering up, Hans and Otto paired off with swords.

  As he moved through the motions, Hans grew increasingly confident in his scheme. Everything was coming together nicely.