Chapter 15: The Convent of Gordowe

The next day Vincent, Selena and Colin gather for breakfast just before the sun rises. Vincent notices that Colin is completely different from yesterday. The boy is bright eyed and in higher spirits than when they first met.

"Good morning!", Colin greets them.

"Good morning, Colin! I'm glad to see you're in better health.", Selena says to him smiling.

"Yes, as am I.", Vincent adds amused.

As they near the end of breakfast Vincent faces Colin. He was still asleep when they returned and tired so Vincent did get a chance to ask him some key questions.

"So Colin where is it that you're from?", Vincent asks. Colin looks up at Vincent's question.

"I'm from the Regece region.", Colin replies. Vincent's eyes widen in surprise at Colin's answer.

"You came here all the way from the Regece region?", Vincent responds in disbelief. Colin nods his head.

"Regece...? That region is named after the civilization that once occupied it, is it not?", Selena says.

"Yes it is. It's located in the southeast. Which means Colin here made an almost month long trip. Though I don't he came by boat. Which means we are looking at an almost two month trip by land.", Vincent tells her.

"Two months?! Impressive and unbelievable as that is on its own, Vincent...what makes you think his family is still...",

"Selena.", Vincent stops her and releases a sigh. "We merely don't have a lot of time. Colin, how long did it take you to come here?"

Colin thinks for a moment. Vincent's heart sinks as he sees the happiness leave Colin's eyes. "Maybe a little over a month. I came here after hearing stories about you. I knew you would be someone who could help me and my family.", the boy replies.

"I see.", Vincent replies.

"I know my family isn't dead yet though.", Colin goes on. Vincent raises an eyebrow at Colin's statement.

"What makes you say that?", he asks.

"Before I left my parents put up a barrier around our home. No one can get in and it's strong, but...even with everyone else still there giving energy to them. It won't last for much longer.", Colin explains.

"I see. In that case the situation remains the same. Come on. It's time we get moving.", Vincent says with cold determination as he gets to his feet.

As Vincent and Colin prepare to leave, Selena hands them a bag packed with food and supplies.

"I don't think it will last all of two months let alone four, but it will be a good start.", she tells Vincent amusingly.

"Thank you.", Vincent chuckles as he takes the bag. Kissing his wife Vincent heads to the door with Colin and Selena following. Colin stops abruptly.

"Uh, someone's at the door.", he says quickly.

"What?", Selena replies as Vincent reaches a hand towards the door. Opening it he stops in his tracks as he comes face to face with Winston and Lillian.

"We came to see you off.", King Winston laughs at his friend's surprise. Recovering Vincent smiles and looks around to even spot Alexander and his family.

"You shouldn't have, really.", he says greeting them.

"Why wouldn't we? You are going on a long journey that has all of our interest involved.", Alexander speaks.

"I appreciate it.", Vincent replies curtly. He then notices Colin hiding behind Selena. With a smile he motions him forward.

"Vincent! Don't tell us you and Selena had a child you didn't tell us about! How dare you?", Queen Lillian says shocked.

"Don't talk nonsense Queen Lillian. This is Colin. Colin this is King Winston and Queen Lillian.", he says.

"Nice to meet you.", Colin greets them bowing respectfully.

"And you.", King Winston returns.

"And this is Sir Alexander and his wife, Jessica.", Vincent goes on gesturing to them in turn.

"Hello. Nice to meet you.", Colin greets them.

"Pleasure to meet you young man.", Alexander greets him.

"He's not from here is he?", Queen Lillian speaks.

"No he isn't. I'll be returning him home while I'm away. A situation has come up and his family needs me.", Vincent tells them. An interested look comes upon King Winston's face.

"Your help specifically? What's going on?", he asks. Vincent hesitates. He isn't sure how to explain everything right now that will allow everyone to understand.

"I'll have to explain when I get back. It's complicated and difficult to explain. We are also in a race against time.", Vincent resides to tell them. Though he knows it's unsatisfactory with everyone.

"Don't take on more than you can handle Vincent. Strong as you are, everyone has their limit. Even you.", Alexander warns.

"I'll keep that in mind, Alexander.", Vincent replies before looking to King Winston and Queen Lillian. King Winston nods acceptingly though Vincent knows he will expect an explanation later. Queen Lillian also catches his eye. However, it's because he can sense her brokenness under her facade.

He knows she left before any of them last night. Selena said she felt bad and needed rest, but now that he was in front of her. He can see that something has shaken her, but what could it be.

'Perhaps she has had more dreams.', he thinks. Nonetheless he puts it aside for now, but decides to talk to Winston when he gets back.

"Well, we better get going.", he says moving to take his horse from the servant nearby. He helps Colin up first and makes sure he is comfortable.

"Be safe and be back soon.", King Winston says meanwhile. Vincent mounts his horse next before looking to them all.

"Of course. You have my word.", he replies before setting off.

......................

"Have you ever rode a horse before, Colin?", Vincent asks as they take the path through the Andreious forest.

"Mmm, I would ride the horse papa would use to plow the field he worked on. It used to be so fun.", Colin answers.

"Really? Was the field your family's?", Vincent asks.

"No. It belonged to a vice count. Our family and one other were in charge of caring for the cotton and olives on one part of the land. They were friendly too.", Colin explains.

"Hmm, did you and your family only practice magic in your home?", Vincent continues

"Yes. Mostly. Despite it not being rare there. Everyone was aware of the church's presence and their opinion of magic.", Colin says. Vincent finds himself stumped. How could have Colin's family been targeted then? As they come to Gordowe Vincent pushes the thought to the back of his mind.

"Why did we come here? I thought we were in a hurry.", Colin asks.

"We are, but I need to get some information first, so I will have a starting point for my other mission.", Vincent tells him heading in the direction of the convent of Gordowe.

When they arrive Vincent brings Colin with him. They both dismount with Vincent helping Colin off the horse.

"Ah, that's right!", Vincent suddenly remembers. "Colin, remember when greeting someone of the church or title be sure to say 'It's an honor to meet you.' or 'It's an honor.' ,understand?"

"Yes, Sir Vincent.", Colin replies. Vincent smiles and nods approvingly before knocking on the door. It is only moments later that one of the sisters opens the door and greets Vincent before inviting him and Colin in.

"Is everyone still at breakfast?", Vincent asks after a quick look around.

"Yes, actually we are just finishing up.", the sister answers.

"Could you tell Mother Margaret that I am here?", Vincent asks.

"Of course, Vincent. I'll be back in just a moment.", she says before hurrying off.

"You've been here before?", Colin asks looking up to Vincent.

"I grew up here actually, but I left when I was...seven I think. No ten.", Vincent responds thoughtfully.

"Ohhh...", Colin says, understanding. "There are a lot of kids here. It's a very happy place too.", he comments. Vincent scrunches his eyebrows.

"Your sensory magic is very developed. You must be a sensory type.", Vincent says. Colin nods his head proudly.

"I'm the only one gifted in sensory perception in my family.", he says.

'That's why your family sent you. In addition to your parents being unable to leave you were the best choice.', Vincent thinks. He also remembers how easily Colin found him despite never meeting him. Vincent's thoughts are interrupted as Mother Margaret comes to the forum.

"Back again? Are you perhaps missing living here, Vincent?", she says approaching. Vincent chuckles.

"No, no. Nothing like that, Mother Margaret.", he replies.

"Well don't tell me you are bringing your secret son here now after all this time.", Mother Margaret goes on jokingly. Colin blushes at her words and lowers his eyes.

"Eh... No, Mother Margaret he's not my-"

"Oh I'm just teasing.", she interrupts Vincent's scrambling explanation with a dismissing wave. "Now. Why are you here and who is this handsome young man?", Vincent shakes his head at Mother Margaret's words.

"This is Colin. Colin, this is Mother Margaret. She is over this convent.", Vincent introduces them.

"Hello Colin. Glad to meet you.", the mother speaks.

"Hello, it's an honor to meet you.", Colin replies with a respectful bow.

"I'm helping him with a situation while I'm out on a mission for King Winston.", Vincent explains.

"A mission? So why are you here?", she asks curiously. Vincent thinks for a moment.

"The pope seems to be at odds with King Winston at the moment.", he starts off. "I can't explain everything or rather I'm not sure how, but so far King Winston and his immediate family have been forbidden from attending mass at St. Peter's and there is also a plan for the church to start selling indulgences and certificates. We assume it is to put the people in a position where most of their money is going towards the church and they are unable to pay for things such as their homes, for those that own property."

"Yes, I have heard talk of that. It is disturbing to think they would go so far, but at the same time I'm not surprised. They are most likely attempting to bring in their other forbidden practices as well. The situation with Pope Clement and King Winston though I didn't know about.", Mother Margaret shares.

"The pope is threatened by him and doesn't like the trend that King Winston has set for other monarchies.", Vincent tells her.

"I have no doubt, but what you must know Vincent is that-"

A knock at the door cuts Mother Margaret off. "Excuse me.", she says simply looking to the door before walking to answer it. Colin moves closer to Vincent who senses the fear coming off him. Vincent places an arm comfortingly around him. He feels him relax a little in response.

Mother Margaret opens the door to reveal a man from the church and soldiers behind him. Vincent recognizes him as Archbishop Rederick.

'What on earth is he doing here?', Vincent thinks.

"Archbishop, welcome. How are you?", Mother Margaret greets him.

"Mother Margaret. I'm doing well as I hope you are.", the archbishop replies.

"You may call me mother superior.", Mother Margaret responds bluntly.

"Oh, I thought you weren't one for titles...Mother Superior.", Archbishop Rederick replies.

"Mm, well I thought about what you said about the importance of…differentiating between the people around you. So that they know where they stand, archbishop.", Mother Margaret tells him. Vincent becomes intrigued in the manner in which Mother Margaret and Archbishop Rederick exchange words.

"I see. Well in any case are you going to invite me in?", the archbishop counters.

"Ah, yes of course. Come in please. You will have to forgive me Archbishop Rederick, but you know…you must be wary of the people you invite into your home. You never know what else you are inviting in.", Mother Margaret retorts as Archbishop Rederick walks in with the soldiers behind him. The sound of children approaching causes Vincent to turn around.

"Come on! The quicker we clean the quick-", one of the children falls silent as they catch sight of the archbishop and the soldiers.

"Children. Move outside for now. We will clean in a moment. Sister Sarah, Sister Lauren go with them.", Mother Margaret says moving between their guest and the children. Vincent becomes on edge as a troubling feeling settles in his stomach. He brings his attention to Colin.

"Go with them. I'll come and get you when this business is done.", Vincent tells him.

"But-"

"No buts. Children shouldn't be around adult business.", Vincent interrupts.

"Yes Sir Vincent.", Colin obeys before following the others. Vincent looks to Sister Sarah as she brings Colin in front of her.

"I'll watch him.", she says quietly. Vincent nods and turns his attention back to Mother Margaret and Archbishop Rederick.

"Now then, what do we owe the honor of your visit, your grace?", Mother Margaret speaks once the children are gone. The archbishop faces Mother Margaret.

"It has come to our attention that an increasing number of members of the St. Andrew cathedral here in Gordowe are refusing to pay their tithes. It is beginning to be quite evident within the budget.", Archbishop Rederick tells her.

"And what does that have to do with your visit today?", Mother Margaret responds.

"The root of the problem has been identified as individuals who originated from your convent. The belief that the payment of tithes is not an obligation is a common thread between them as well as the ability to read the bible for themselves and it is spreading to other members of the flock.", Archbishop Rederick retorts.

"Ah, and you are blaming my teachings, aren't you?", Mother Margaret says.

"Well the evidence is present and irrefutable. In truth we tolerate your insistence to give your orphans the ability to read the word, but now it is time for these games to end. From henceforth this convent will be shut down and the occupants relocated.", Archbishop Rederick informs her. Mother Margaret narrows her eyes.

"You tried that before. What makes you think you can do it now?", she replies challengingly.

"Because now your wrong is one that is against God's law, or are you not familiar with the law of God as you thought?", Archbishop Rederick replies. A moment is allowed to pass before Mother Margaret replies.

"Numbers chapter eighteen, Deuteronomy chapter fourteen . Moses makes it law that a tenth of every Israelites yield be given to the priesthood and God. It serves as a reminder that everything they are given God provided and the giving of the tenth or tithe is used to support the Levites who were not given the inheritance the Israelites were given, but assist in the maintaining of the tabernacle, later the temple. Between those two books' chapters the purpose of tithing is explained, however, that was under the law of Moses. Correct?", Mother Margaret responds calmly.

"Correct.", the archbishop answers, narrowing his eyes.

"Then you would know that the law of Moses was overturned with the death of Christ and though not all of it is to be ignored tithing is one thing that can be.", Mother Margaret goes on.

"Your proof?", Archbishop Rederick challenges coldly. The verse immediately comes to Vincent's mind and he decides he has heard enough.

"Galatians chapter three: Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, cursed is everyone that hangs on a tree.", Vincent speaks. Archbishop Rederick and Mother Margaret turn to him as he does.

"Meaning: Christ took upon himself our incapability to keep and obey all the laws. Why? Because no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith. It is by faith that we have the possibility for eternal life. Also Galatians chapter three. Need I say more archbishop?"

"Your argument comes from the Old Testament which no longer stands. This argument comes from the New Testament which does stand and will continue to stand.", Vincent goes on as he comes to stand between Mother Margaret and Archbishop Rederick.

"Vincent please. This does not concern you.", Mother Margaret speaks half heartedly. Vincent ignores her though and continues.

"This convent will not be closing. You have no justifiable reason, therefore you will leave at once.", he says.

"What right do you have to interfere in this, Sir Vincent?", the archbishop speaks.

"This was once my home and you are threatening it. As a knight of this realm I will not allow it.", Vincent tells him.

"So...you have chosen your side, have you?", Archbishop Rederick says with a hint of disappointment.

"One of the saddest things that can happen is a man who claims to be with God turning against God's teachings.", Vincent replies simply.

"How dare you! Fine then we will close this convent by force! We will deal with the rest later!", the archbishop retorts in outrage. At the archbishop's decision Vincent draws his sword and places it against the official's neck before anyone can react. By time the soldiers register what has happened they ready their spears; aiming them at Vincent.

"Do you think they can stop me? If I really wanted to.", Vincent asks him calmly. His eyes are full of daggers and cold fire. It is enough to cause the archbishop's courage to waver.

"Y-you w-wouldn't... You wouldn't strike down a man of God.", he says.

"You are a man. Just as I am. You, however, are a man of religion; not faith. There's a difference.", Vincent replies simply. Though now his temper is rising. "Now leave!", as he speaks Vincent feels his aura pulsate from his body on its own. The surge of energy hits the archbishop and soldiers whose eyes fill with fear as they stumble back. The air becomes heavy and suffocating before slowly lifting.

Vincent lowers his sword and watches as the archbishop and soldiers flee. His breath comes in exhausted pants that match his body's state.

'What was that?', he thinks as Mother Margaret approaches him hesitantly.

"Vincent...", she says, laying a hand on his shoulder. He turns to her to see a worried expression on her face.

"I'm alright.", he tells her. The sound of running steps causes Vincent to turn and see Colin rushing in.

"Sir Vincent!", he calls. When he sees only Vincent and Mother Margaret he relaxes.

"Calm down, Colin. Everything is alright, but we don't have much time to lose. They will be back and next time they won't be talking.", Vincent tells him sheathing his sword.

"What are you going to do?", Mother Margaret asks regaining her composure enough to speak. Before Vincent can answer Sister Sarah arrives.

"Vincent, I'm sorry. He thought you were in trouble.", she tells him.

"It's fine Sister Sarah. Thank you just the same.", Vincent assures her before turning to Mother Margaret. "I'm going to ask King Winston to place troops here and I'm also going to have knights assigned in Gordowe watch over you all.", Vincent responds.

"Is there anything I can do?", Colin asks eagerly.

"Easy there. Just wait until I tell you otherwise.", Vincent tells him. "I need to send a letter to King Winston and give my orders to the knights here."

"Which means you're going to the jail?", Mother Margaret says.

"Yes. Silver knights or captains and those under them are stationed in towns they are over and live, so I need to go now. I'll be back. Colin, remain here and watch the convent for me.", Vincent replies before heading to the door.