Knights: Defenders of Ollanhar

  ***

  The man who approached--a sour-faced Birlote--was well over six-feet tall and dressed in an extravagant crimson cloak with gold trim. He walked with a slight limp, dragon cane in hand. His silver hair stuck up in odd spikes, and his facial features were devilish even by Birlote standards. His skin was somewhat pale for a Tree Dweller. He carried a leather satchel under one arm. He was flanked by four Guardians--the Golden Knights of Bellis--and twelve warriors armed with deadly crossbows that fired exploding arrows. Two Thallite giants--each over ten-feet tall and defended by stout crimson armor--walked at the rear, holding banners that displayed the Crest of Bellis. It was an impressive force.

  The leader strode up to Lannon with such vigor that Lannon's hand instinctively tightened around his sword hilt. But the newcomer only glared down at him and said, "I'm seeking the Green Knight of Ollanhar or the High Watchman."

  Lannon introduced himself.

  He gazed at Lannon with utter disdain. "I am the Lawkeeper of Bellis. My name is Karlus. I request a meeting be held at once."

  Dallsa opened her mouth to say something, but Lannon gave her a warning nudge. "Meetings are usually scheduled in advance."

  The Lawkeeper nodded. "We sent a bird bearing the request."

  "It never arrived," said Lannon, a shadow of dread settling over him. Why had Bellis sent such mighty warriors to Ollanhar? Was this a prelude to another war? Four Guardians and two Thallites suggested the situation was at least extremely serious. It also suggested Bellis was anticipating a possible fight. But why? What news could Bellis deliver that would lead to such a conflict?

  "That's not my problem," said the Lawkeeper. "I came a long way to meet with the Council of Ollanhar. Are you turning me away?" His tone of voice promised doom if Lannon refused him.

  It's not mine, either, Lannon thought. But instead he merely shrugged. "We can hold a meeting. I will gather the Council."

  "Our horses are in the trail," said the Lawkeeper. "I request that they be given a stable and tended to properly. Also, there are valuables in our packs. I would be most displeased if they came up missing."

  Dallsa's face reddened with anger. "No one is going to steal your valuables. We're not thieves."

  The Lawkeeper ignored her. "What say you, Sunshield?"

  Lannon nodded. Rudeness would only work against him. "I'll send someone to look after your horses. Meanwhile, you can come inside for food and drink." He glanced at the two giants. "Unfortunately, our tower isn't designed for guests as large as those Thallites..."

  The Lawkeeper's face was stony. "They can stand."