AscensionBirthright Book 1

2

"May I present Commander Angus of the Legion of Yorq," announced the butler.

Kita felt his presence take command of the room. I must learn that trick. Angus' hair and beard were clean and nicely groomed. His armor was unique, made of angular, fitted blue plates that covered strategic areas of the body. Under the armor was a blue uniform and he wore black boots. A half-helmet was hanging from a strap connected to his utility belt. On his back he carried a sword and shield.

Angus stopped at the edge of the group. "Duke Logine, a pleasure to see you again. I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"No, no, of course not, Commander. It's been a long time. Welcome to Castle Arbol. I'm sure you remember Serge?"

"Good day, my lord. I see the years have been good to you."

"Greetings, Angus. How nice of you to say, but time catches up to us all I'm afraid. However, you look like the war ended yesterday," said Cunningham, with a slight frown.

Angus smiled. "The vigorous training regimen of the Legion keeps one looking young."

He smiled, but his eyes didn't. Why lie?

"May I introduce my son, Lord Jeffrey?" said the duke. "He currently commands my forces. Previously, he has served on the king's Command Staff and graduated second in his class from the king's war college. In the king's service, he served as a platoon leader and on the Command Staff. He's partaken in several battles against ravagers. Unfortunately, he'll be leaving shortly to join the king's forces."

"Pleasure to meet you, Lord Jeffrey. A most impressive resume. I'm sure you will do your estate proud."

Jeffrey smiled humbly. I'm going to gag.

"Thank you, Angus," said Jeffrey in a pious tone. "I'm honored to hear such praise from such a respected and honored warrior as yourself. I look forward to serving with you at Razor's Pass."

Angus smiled warmly and bowed over the duchess' offered hand. "Marie, you look lovely. It's good to see you again."

The duchess inclined her head. "Pleasure to see you again, Angus."

"The pleasure is mine, my lady. It's been a very long time. It looks like the gods have smiled upon you."

How far back did Mother and Angus go?

"They have indeed."

The Duke reached out and touched the Duchess' arm. "So—"

"This is our daughter, Lady Kita," said the duchess. "I apologize for her appearance. She's just returned from her arms lesson and stopped in unexpectedly."

Kita became conscious that her blond hair must look like a rat's nest.

"It's quite all right, my lady. I'm glad to finally meet you, Lady Kita. It's good to see someone willing to get her armor dirty. I know in Yorq, few women are allowed to fight. I commend you on your courage and that of your father. It isn't easy to wave your banner in the face of social norms."

"Thank—"

The duke waved Kita aside. "So Angus, what brings you to Arbol? The Legion recruiters were just here and took three of my best senior sergeants. Was there a problem with them?"

"No, my lord. They've been a welcome addition and have adapted very well to the Legion. I'm here on a separate recruiting mission. Because of the person's stature and position, I felt I should do the recruiting myself."

Why hasn't he mentioned Jeffrey by name yet? Maybe he's seeing if he can get Father to explode from the suspense. As amusing as the image was, Kita had made a mistake in coming to the hall. She seemed only to have reinforced her father's notions for her future. I will not bend to his will. I'm not his pawn. It's my life...but that's easier said than done. Where can I go that they won't follow? There's always Leedings...