The inside was even more spectacular than the outside. There were people everywhere, and merchants trying to sell everything. Everywhere they looked, there was children, and babies, and adults. Even guards could be seen among the crowds.

Several hostlers came forward to take the horses, and Liam told them to take the packhorse to the pages quarters and put the items under Thomas’s name. All of Liam and Halef’s stuff were on their horses.

So as not to lose Naitha, Thomas picked her up and held her to his hip. Lala wouldn’t get lost. She was taller than Thomas, and very smart.

Liam walked Thomas towards where the pages would house which just happened to be right near the palace.

As they approached the area, Thomas saw the training grounds he would use in the future. When they entered the enormous building, they were stopped by a guard. “State your business.” He barked.

“Thomas is here to be a page.” Said Liam.

“Letter?” Asked the guard. Thomas dug the letter out of his pocket and handed it to the guard.

He handed the letter back to the small boy who held an even smaller girl. Thomas put her down and she walked by him holding her hand. “Down the hall, last door on the left.” Said the guard, and that was where they were expected to go.

When he got to the door, he hesitated. “I’ll stay out here with the girls.” Offered Halef.

“Would you like me to go in with you?” Asked Liam.

“No. I can do this.” And with that, Thomas knocked on the door.

“Enter.” Called a gruff voice.

Thomas walked in alone, and saw a stern looking man with brown hair that was sprinkled with gray sitting in a chair behind a desk. “Sit.” He said, and Thomas sat.

“You are?” Asked the man.

“Thomas sir. Thomas of Thaxon.”

“Ah. Thomas.” He said and sat there saying nothing. He was studying Thomas, he realized. So, Thomas decided he would study him as well.

The man had an all business demeanor, and was a little plump, but looked like he would be very tall.

After several long minutes, the man said, “I am Duke Winthor. I guess you really decided you wanted to come after all.”

“Yes sir.” Thomas responded.

“Alright. You came here two days before you had to be ready. After those two days, an older page will become your sponsor. He will show you the ropes around here. Last thing, you will find your room has all your things, and the door that is yours will be marked with your name. Only maidservants are allowed beyond this point, so I’d suggest you say goodbye now.”

“Yes sir.” He said realizing a dismissal when he heard one. Then he left the room.

Outside waited all of the people who had come with him. He looked at Halef and Liam. “I’m afraid this is where we have to say goodbye. I will send you guys letters often. Thank you. For everything.” He said hugging Liam and Halef.

“Don’t get into too much trouble.” Said Halef ruffling his hair.

Thomas turned to Liam. “Thomas… I’m going to miss you kid. Here,” He said putting a bag into his hands. “You’ll need this eventually. I already paid the entire years wages for both Lala and Nai. Take care of yourself.” He said pulling him into one last hug.

“Goodbye.” He said as they turned around and left.

He turned to Naitha and Lala. “If you see a door with my name on it, let me know.” They nodded. They slowly walked down the hall, and then he saw it.

Entering his room, he saw his bed, and a bathroom, then another room broke off where two beds were set. That room would be the girls’ room. Inside his own room was a chest, and a dresser. His clothes were in the drawers.