Chapter 73: Aspion's Story - Drafted

Chapter 73: Aspion's Story - Drafted

News of the leveling of Dherma spread throughout the entire county. Within days an envoy of Count Harlow came to the village to mark the event. A celebration never before seen in the village was held, bestowing the title of vice-knight on the village chief. According to the new status, the village was allowed to become an official trading post where caravans could stop.

The people responsible for the area improvement were declared heroes, as well as given ten coins of silver, a travel emblem, and permission to enter any of the counts cities. The reward was enough to make any person happy, but Kraisten wasnt content. Despite Aspions best efforts, the only thing his friend wanted was to leave the village.

Why are you being so stubborn? Kierra asked. Its not like its the end of the world. Kraisten only wants to go to the city for a few weeks. After that hell be back.

You dont know what youre talking about, Aspion grumbled. Its not like Im stopping him.

Thats a lot of crap and you know it. His sister crossed her arms. He wont go without you. And I know you well enough to see that you want to go as well, but are refusing just because were asking you.

That wasnt true at all. The only reason Aspion didnt want to go was because he knew that if they went, Kierra would come along. Two emblems and three people. Walking through the world would be dangerous, even if Kierra had awakened. Besides that, wasnt the only reason. The people from the cities scared Aspion. He had only seen them a few timesonly three outsiders had ever visited Dherma, each of them with a terrifying air around them.

Ill think about it.

When you say that you really mean no.

I dont want to spend my life there, okay?! Aspion snapped. If Kraisten wants to spend the rest of his life there, he can do so without my help.

Finding work had turned out surprisingly easy. After learning that Kraisten had forging skills, he was quickly snatched by the towns blacksmith guild. Aspion had to spend a few days asking about, but ultimately he too was hired by a mending shop. The work wasnt the most interestingten hours of mending per daybut at least it paid well, and he had gotten a proper weapon to do it with. All in all, things were looking well.

You know, Aspion said, sitting at the towns main fountain. This place isnt that bad.

Told you, Kierra whispered to Kraisten.

Shut up, Aspion mock grumbled. Okay, you were right. It was worth it coming here. Not that I ever saw myself as a full-time mender.

Its just temporary. There are better things in store.

Easy for you to say. I heard you were promoted to journeyman. The whole neighborhood was making a big fuss about it. Guess that head of yours isnt only for show.

Shows what they know. Kraisten smirked. They made the offer, but I turned them down. Theres a faster way to get noticed. The man paused for a few moments. Theres talk of a war going on. Count Harlow has joined Count Priscord in supporting the claim of the Archdukes second son. If they are successful, theyll become the most important nobles in the realm.

The war wont bother us. Nerosal is far too insignificant to get involved, thank the Seven.

Yeah Kraisten paused. Thing is, I went to the local barracks and asked to join the Counts army. And they accepted.