The Unsuspecting Mage - Brian S. Pratt [147]
“If they are so unstable,” James asks, “then why the push into Madoc?”
Shrugging, the leader says, “Who knows? Maybe things have changed that has freed up a large section of their armies, no way to really know. I am sure we have spies within the Empire that may know, but I doubt if that knowledge would become available to the general population.”
“True,” James agrees.
“One thing is for sure,” the leader continues, “it has strained relationships between Cardri and the Empire. We are not at war with them, but I hear that we are helping Madoc in these dire times with supplies and possibly some troops, though that is only rumors.”
“Do you think we would go to war with the Empire?” James asks.
“Not unless directly attacked, I wouldn’t think so,” he replies. “Cardri has a fair sized army but nothing compared with the might that the Empire could put into the field. Now keep in mind, the troops they are keeping in their southern territories to keep rebellion in check, would be released to fight if we were to enter the conflict. The only hope Madoc has is if they overextend themselves and one or more of their southern territories were to think this would be a good time to rebel. Not likely to happen, but you never know.”
“Thanks for the information,” James says. “Maybe we’ll see you again, we’re planning on taking the Merchant’s Pass over into Madoc.”
“Then you better hurry,” he replies. “From what I understand, if Saragon falls then the Pass is to be closed and all traffic diverted north through Dragon’s Pass.”
“Why would they close it, if we’re not at war with them?” James asks.
“For safety,” the leader replies. “With both sides having armies in the field, it wouldn’t do to have our citizens traveling through the middle of it.”
“I suppose you are right,” admits James.
Finishing the last of his meal, the leader says to his men, “Let’s get going, we’ve got a long way to travel before this day is through.”
His men hurry with finishing the last of their stew. A couple of the soldiers take the remaining loaves with them, putting the bread in travel pouches hanging on their belts. As the leader gets up to leave, he pauses a moment and says to James, “If you are going over Merchant’s Pass, be careful. If the Empire finds you over there, they will treat you as spies most likely. Good luck to you both.”
“Thank you and safe travel to you and your men,” James replies.
The leader nods in reply then heads for the door, his men having already exited the inn. “I guess we should hurry ourselves,” he says to Miko.
“I agree,” the boy replies, “but do you still think it’s a good idea to travel over to Madoc? After all, you really don’t know where what you’re looking for is.”
“The risks have increased, but I still feel that I need to get over there and try to find the answers.” Looking at the worried expression on Miko’s face, he continues, “Don’t worry, we’ll be extra careful. If we stick together, we should be okay.”
“I hope so,” Miko says, not sounding very convinced.
“We should be going though, Trademeet is still a couple of days away,” James says as he gets up, placing the rest of the bread in his backpack for later. Miko comes to his feet as well and follows him out to the horses. They mount up and head through the streets of Lornigan. When they come to the junction Perrilin mentioned, where the trade road running north and south crosses the one to Trademeet, they take the north leg and in no time make it to the outskirts of town.
Not far past the last building, they come across a large open market consisting of dozens of tables and booths stocked with items offered for sale. Having never seen a market situated outside of a town, he hails a passerby. “Excuse me sir.”
The man stops and looks up at James, “Yes?” he asks, in a tone that makes it clear he is being bothered.
“Could you tell me what that is over there?” James asks pointing to the open market.