Sarac gazed out across the sea, spying an island. With a weak voice and trembling hands he pointed “Do you see that?”
Murdoc his friend looked up from tending to Landon their fallen companion.
“An island.” said Murdoc his voice raspy from dehydration.
Sarac stumbled over toward the side of the boat the island was on. The boat rocking back and forth with his movements.
“Can we reach it?” asked Sarac leaning over the side of the boat.
“God willing.” replied Murdoc touching Landon’s forehead shaking his head.
“Sarac…” said Murdoc weakly.
Sarac with a struggle turned around facing Murdoc.
“What is it?”
“Landon…he’s dead.”
Sarac looked down grimly at their companion lying at the bottom of the boat. He sighed lightly touching Landon’s temple “Good bye dear friend.”
“We ever get back to Sutenland we will make them pay for this.” croaked Murdoc his eyes burning with anger.
“We will never see Sutenland again.” replied Sarac.
“There.” Sarac pointed toward the island “That is where our destiny lies.”
Sarac stared at the island for what seemed like hours their boat never getting closer and they without any means of reaching it. Sarac cursed Sutenland one last time as his vison faded to blackness before him.
Sarac felt cool water touch his lips.
‘So I have reached the pearly gates.’ thought Sarac.
He blinked opening his eyes and saw Murdoc holding a waterskin up to his mouth. Sarac drank deeply from the skin Murdoc was nursing him with.
“Have we died?” asked Sarac lazily.
“No, there was a storm last night it threw us onto the island. I carried you here to this lake.”
Sarac leaned his head over. A shallow crystal clear lake stretched out before him. He reached out his hand letting it rest in the cool water.
“We have made it.” he said smiling.
Murdoc stood up and looked around “It’s quite a place.”
Sarac rolled over plunging his face into the water. Having his fill he rolled back over reinvigorated. He sighed heavily and stood up looking around.
“This place looks like a paradise from an old tale.” said Sarac.
Murdoc nodded “Lots of game, water, resources…we could build quite a kingdom here.”
“So we could.” said Sarac.
Sarac sat back down against a tree sighing closing his eyes.
Murdoc’s hand snapped to Sarac’s shoulder.
“Look.” he whispered tensely.
Across the lake a few figures dressed in rags were making their way down to the lake. One of the men bore a club while the others carried buckets.
“We’re defenseless, let’s hope they’re friendly. Maybe your size will intimidate them.” said Sarac to his burly companion.
Murdoc nodded “Let’s hope.”
“Come let’s go.” said Sarac.
The two made their way over to the three men dressed in rags. The man with the club was the first to see them approaching and waved both his arms over his head. Sarac returned what he hoped was a greeting.
“Hail!” shouted Sarac.
The man turned his head to the side and shouted back “Hail.”
Sarac looked over at Murdoc and then back at the man “Can you understand me?” asked Sarac as he neared.
“Of course.” replied the man.
Sarac’s jaw dropped for a moment “You speak Sueden?”
The man shook his head “I do not know what Sueden is but I can understand you just fine.”
“I am Sarac.”
“And I Murdoc.”
“I am Junto and these are my sons Teill and Ribault.” said the man.
The sons their buckets filled with water nodded as they passed going back from where they came.
“Where did you come from? There are no settlements this far out.” said Junto.
“Shipwreck.” replied Sarac.
“Ship?” asked Junto.
Sarac looked over at Murdoc and then back at Junto “Yes, you know for traveling on water.”
Junto shook his head “You came from the sea?”
“Yes.”
Junto stepped back taking the two strangers in “Hmmm…maybe you can help us then.”
“With what?” asked Sarac.
“Walk with me to my house. There you can eat and drink and I’ll explain our problems here on the way.” said Junto.
Junto led them away from the lake and the sea “Here on Rex Innis we are ruled by whoever occupies the Helmed Keep, since time began it has been the law here. When the last king was thrown off the side of the cliff that the keep resides on, the man who killed him, Braka, took his place as king and now reigns. Braka the Mad as he has been named is a cruel and wicked man. He takes delight in executing and torturing his peasant. Making our once peaceful island into a hell on earth.”
“How has such a king been tolerated for so long?” asked Sarac.
“He has soldiers to do his bidding. As long as they get a fat cut of the goods of the land then they’ll do whatever he says.”
“It is custom that whoever kills the king then reigns?”
“Of course.” replied Junto.
Sarac noticed that they had been walking at a gradual incline the entire time they had been talking.
Junto pointed to a small hovel nestled between a large rock formation and a giant tree.
“There is my home.” said Junto.
Sarac and Murdoc followed him in. The home was barely large enough to fit all of them.
“Here.” said Junto guiding them to water and food “After you eat and rest you will come up to the King’s Field with me tonight to see the executions.”
“Executions?”
“Yes, you will soon see the cruelty of Braka the Mad.” Junto walked over to a small wooden chest opening the lid. He removed three items.
“Here” he said handing wooden clubs to both Murdoc and Sarac “Clubs.”
“What for?” asked Sarac.
“You will see.” replied Junto.
Connected to the highest point of the main island by a long ancient stone bridge stood the Helmed Keep. It had been hewn out of the giant rock formation it jutted from. On either side of the bridge were hundreds of feet of open air with sharp rocks and the ocean below. The keep itself was surrounded by the ocean hundreds of feet below on all sides.
“What a marvel.” said Sarac catching his first glimpse of the Helmed Keep.
The keep itself seemed to look like a helm sitting on the shoulders of a mammoth rock giant rising from the sea. The rock face plunged straight down around the keep making the only entrance across the stone bridge.
“Who built that?” asked Sarac pointing.
“The ancients.” replied Junto.
Three dusty pathways led to a central area in front of the stone bridge. To the side of the central area stood gallows. A contingent of armed men wearing heavy metal armor stood around the gallows standing guard. In the center of them stood a man with a wooden mask on his face and a crown on his head. He wore nothing else except a ratty loincloth. In his hands he bore a cruel spiked whip.
“Is that Braka the Mad?” asked Sarac.
Junto nodded.
A crowd of about thirty peasants had gathered around. Braka was jumping around in the circle shouting and dancing. Seeing that the crowd has gathered to sufficient size the king danced over to the awaiting peasants. Junto made his way to the front of the group followed by Sarac and Murdoc.
The king was singing nonsensically split by laughs as he pointed at various peasants. Braka retreated in to the circle of his soldiers and emerged again with a torch laughing maniacally. Coming up from the pathway to their left, two warriors were leading a line of five men in rags between them. Braka raced up to the men holding the torch scaldingly close to them. He began singing and dancing as the men were led up to the gallows their faces downcast.
“What were these men’s crimes?” asked Sarac.
“Who knows with Braka, we’ll find out soon enough.” replied Junto.
“No, no, no.” said Braka calmly leading two of the men from the line
“No, no, no.” cooed Braka softly in their ears.
Braka led both men in front of the peasants and raised both their hands up as if victorious. He began muttering to himself again and let go of them. A warrior on either side made sure the two prisoners made no moves on Braka himself.
Braka now screeched with rage “You!” he grabbed one of the men in line by the throat and led him forward.
Two soldiers from the circle grabbed the man who began shrieking.
“Don’t just watch.” yelled the prisoner but no one made a move.
One soldier held the man down while the other placed his head on a rock.
“You try…hurt king…you try hurt me…yes?…yes?”
“Death to Braka.” spat the prisoner.
Braka leapt up and down in fury screaming. He retrieved a sharpened rock from one of the soldiers and pounced on the man carving into his face as the man screamed in pain.
“Shhh…shhh…shhh…you ruin work.” said Braka his voice barely above a whisper.
The man continued a stream of curses mingled with screams. Braka cranked the man’s neck back violently.
Braka’s eyes reddened “Shhhh!” screamed Braka will all his might.
The rock dug into the man’s flesh again. Braka worked on the man for another minute before letting him go. The soldiers hauled the man up and pushed him forward towards the gathered peasants. The man raced forward screaming as blood poured down his face. He ran past Sarac and the peasants down the hill, off to cleanse his wounds.
“What did you carve Braka?” asked one of the soldiers.
Braka looked at the soldier for a second as if confused then began dancing again toward the other man.
“This has to stop.” said Sarac starting forward.
“Hold on now Sarac.” said Murdoc grabbing his companion’s arm.
“See those men.” Murdoc indicated to the armored men.
“Of course.” replied Sarac.
“Count them.” said Murdoc.
Sarac turned toward the soldiers annoyed and began counting “Fifteen” he said finally.
“And how many are we?”
“Two.”
“And all loyal to Braka to the death.” added in Junto.
“But why?”
Junto shrugged “Money, enjoyment, who knows but that fact remains.”
Braka grabbed the next prisoner forcing him to his knees. He then fingered the man’s eye lids back and pointed “Watch” said Braka darkly.
The other three men were led to the gallows.
“Steal king…steal from me.” shouted Braka digging his fingers deeper into the man eye lids.
The man cried out in pain.
“Drop!” yelled Braka.
“No.” gasped the man as the bottoms were let out of the gallows.
The three men’s necks snapped as they were hung. Braka began laughing hysterically letting go of the man’s eyelids and shoving him forward.
“No.” said the man staring ahead of him shaking tears rolling down his face.
“Break.” said Braka throwing the man against a large pile of rocks.
The man went to protest but halberds shot out from the soldiers at his sides slicing into both of his knees.
“You…try…kill Braka why?…why?…Braka good.” with this Braka turned to his soldiers who all nodded.
“Braka family.” said Braka again turning to his soldiers who nodded vigorously “You kill good…you kill…family…you bad…die, fire.”
Braka stepped forward lowering the torch to the man.
Sarac stepped forward shouting “No!” before he took another step a heavy club smashed into his stomach sending him doubling over and to the ground.
Sarac held his hands to his stomach, wincing in pain as the club was raised again. Murdoc snatched the soldier’s arm preventing the next club strike. He yanked the soldier’s arm back causing him to fall over.
Braka shrieked pointing to the disturbance. He tossed the torch on the crying man which caught his rags on fire then took off down the stone bridge tailed by four guards. The man screamed with pain as the fire consumed him. The soldiers marched for Murdoc but the peasants surged forward.
“Back to the keep!” yelled the soldiers abandoning their companion still in Murdoc’s grasp.
The peasants swarmed the fallen soldier held by Murdoc, tearing him to bits in their rage.
“Quick after them before they shut themselves away.” yelled Sarac pointing after the retreating soldiers.
The peasants with wild yells began chasing the soldiers down the bridge.
“Take the club.” said Sarac handing the soldier’s metal club to Murdoc.
Murdoc gave his wooden club to one of the peasants then helped Sarac up.
“This armor.” said Sarac kicking the dead soldier in the side “About my size.”
Braka sat on the large stone throne of the Helmed Keep overlooking a large open atrium. Deep below him was a pit where the ocean flowed in and out of. Behind him was a walkway that led to the top of the keep and had a view of the ocean and the lands around. One lone gate at the very end of the bridge just outside the keep, kept out the peasants. The soldiers manned the walls along the gate with a few throwing spears, slingshots, and the two bows they had.
“We kill them all…” said Braka turning to a soldier standing guard.
“No fair Braka, then where will we get our resources and money?” replied the guard.
Braka sat back on his throne grumbling.
The peasants threw themselves at the wall trying frantically to climb it or beat out footholds with their axes, clubs, and farming tools. One of the soldier threw down a spear. The spear rent a peasant’s face causing him to stumble back and then tumble over the side of the bridge. The peasant’s scream could be heard for some time as he fell down into the ocean far below. Murdoc and Sarac watched the siege from the midpoint of the bridge.
Sarac turned to Junto “As quick as you can, rally the rest of the peasants and tell them tonight that Braka dies.”
Junto nodded happily and raced off to wake the rest of the island.
One peasant had reached the top of the wall with his fingers. Gripping tightly he tried hauling himself up. A soldier seeing this swung his axe down chopping off the peasant’s fingers. The peasant screamed and fell back down. The soldiers all laughed as the peasant’s cries of pain.
“Braka perhaps you should talk to them.” asked his guarding soldier watching the bridge from the open throne room the winds rushing in and out of it.
Braka shook his head “No.”
The soldier looked down at the gate “It may spare some of your family’s lives.”
Braka grumbled and got up from his throne. He seized the King’s Sword. A large great sword carried by every king that had ruled Rex Innis since the ancients. A short time later Braka appeared above the gates.
“Why?” started Braka but the peasants threw their tools and weapons at him.
Braka leapt back down from the wall cursing “Kill…kill them all.” said Braka stomping back to the keep.
Another peasant had hacked out a foothold and pushed himself up and over the wall. The peasant went over with such force he smashed into a guard sending them both over the other side. The peasant began grappling with the guard when they hit. The peasant saw other guards swarming in. Yelling he held the guard he was engaged with tightly and rolled toward the side of the bridge.
“No!” yelled the guard as both peasant and guard went over the edge of the bridge plummeting down and smashing against the rocks below.
Sarac made it to the wall his ill-fitting armor slowing him down somewhat. An arrow sunk into his shoulder pad as he neared but did not pierce his skin.
“Lucky.” said Murdoc flicking the arrow as they advanced into the mass of peasants.
Now sixty peasants were rushing down the bridge toward the gate. The guards were pulling peasants up themselves to slay them. A peasant would reach his foothold only to be hoisted up the rest of the way by the guards and then beaten or stabbed to death before being tossed back down or over the side of the bridge. Junto had arrived with nearly the entire population in arms.
The peasants had sharpened wooden shafts that they up at the soldiers. Most of them smacked against the armor and fell harmlessly aside. One hit a soldier’s throat sending him falling forward into the mass of peasants to die. Peasants were using each other as stepping stones to gain the wall and swipe at the soldiers manning it.
“To the keep.” yelled one of the soldiers leaping down from the wall as peasants began spilling over their numbers too great to contain.
The soldiers rushed into the keep closing behind them just as the peasants smashed into it.
“That will not hold long.” said a soldier.
The soldiers turned to Braka who was standing out on the walkway overlooking the ocean.
“Maybe if we just give them Braka they will leave us alone.” said a soldier.
“They’ll still want us dead, their thirst for blood won’t be satisfied till were all strung up.” said another soldier.
A peasant’s scythe tip broke through the door as the door began giving way under the rampaging peasants.
The soldier nearest the door turned toward Braka’s personal guard “Bring him down here to deal with this.” yelled the soldier.
Braka appeared from the walkway looking down.
“Deal with this Braka!” yelled the soldier again.
Braka mumbled something starting toward the door, his personal guard staying close by him. The door splintered as the peasants rushed in. The soldiers swung cutting down the first few peasants through. The ones behind, startled by the guards, tried backing up but were cut down as well.
“Fill the door with…their corpses.” said Braka.
“Bunch up.” yelled Braka’s guard pushing soldiers not already at the door toward it “They get through and we are all dead.”
The peasants got stuck at the door, as they rushed through over the dead bodies of their companions. Then finding themselves surrounded by trained guards tried to retreat crashing into the peasants still coming forward.
“Hold.” shouted Sarac from opposite side but the peasants did not comply “They are simple sending themselves to their death.” said Sarac turning to Junto.
Junto nodded gripping the men by him and pulling them back “We must wait.” said Junto.
The wild eyed peasants turned on Junto nearly killing him in their scramble to break through the gate.
Sarac moaned.
“Is there another opening in the keep?” asked Murdoc spying a mass of rope on the right side of the gate.
“Yes, there are many open places but they are above water and nothing but a straight rock ledge below them. Impossible to access.” replied Junto.
Murdoc smiled “Here.” he said running over toward the right of the bridge retrieving a heavy set of rope. “Tie this off.” Murdoc pointed to a stone column “I’ll climb this rock face, find a way around, untie it, and send it back. We’ll get the men over that way.”
Junto whistled shaking his head “I’m not sure we could make it but it’s a chance.”
“Be careful.” cautioned Sarac.
Murdoc smiled winking. The rope tied, Murdoc felt his way along the rocky outcrop around the keep. He gingerly placed his foot searching for holds and grabbed jutting pieces of rock as he began making his way over. Sarac watched Murdoc edge across. He paced back and forth wincing every time Murdoc slipped. Suddenly Murdoc yelled as the rope began to pull taunt.
“Murdoc!” yelled Sarac rushing to the edge of the bridge.
“I’m okay.” replied Murdoc “Just a little slip.”
Sarac breathed a sigh of relief.
Back in the keep a peasant finding himself surrounded struck out with his scythe. The scythe blade cut across a soldier’s helmed face causing him to drop to the ground. The peasant was quickly killed as more pushed their way through behind him. The soldier was screaming in pain his hands cupped over his face on the ground as blood streamed through his fingers.
“Hold them.” urged Braka’s guard from near the throne.
Braka had lost interest in the fight and wandered back out onto the walkway overlooking the ocean.
Murdoc reached his fingers around one of the openings in the rock face and pulled himself up into a ledge of the keep. He quickly untied the rope and hid against one of the many pillars that lined the ocean side of the keep. Before him was a great chasm the sounds of the ocean echoing from deep beneath it. Above the chasm on a raised platform was a guard standing by the throne and to Murdoc’s right guards by the door. Murdoc slowly made his way up a staircase to his left that he hoped led to the throne.
The rope falling back towards him, Sarac pulled it up and tied it around his own waist.
“Come after.” he said to Junto before attempting to navigate the rocks.
Junto nodded ensuring the rope was tight around the column. Sarac started off quicker than Murdoc trying to mimic his path.
The peasants continued to battle their way through the soldiers. Seeing that the only success they were having was tackling a soldier and going off the ledge with him some peasants dropped their weapons and rushed in. One peasant tackled one of the soldiers as the soldier stabbed him. The peasant continued his charge until both soldier and peasant fell off the side of the bridge crashing down into the ocean far below.
Sarac felt his foot slip. He scratched at the rocks bloodying his hands as he slid. Grasping the ledge he prevented himself from falling back toward the bridge. He scrambled back up to his original position his hands cut to ribbons in the process. With much effort and bloodied hands Sarac made it to the open ledge and pulled himself up into the keep. Looking around Sarac saw the same scene that Murdoc had before. He untied the rope and made his way up the stairs to his left expecting Murdoc to have done the same. Murdoc waited at the top of the stairs before a covered walkway that led around to the throne. Sarac hissed at Murdoc walking up behind him. Murdoc turned his club raised.
“If I wanted to kill you I wouldn’t had warned you.” said Sarac walking by.
Sarac and Murdoc made their way around to the guard standing by the throne. Murdoc stepped forward as the guard spun around. Murdoc raised his club and struck. The club struck onto the guard’s head killing him. He sunk to a heap in front of Murdoc.
A soldier standing nearer the gate heard the commotion and turned “They have gained the keep!” shouted the soldier.
“Quick.” said Sarac grabbing Murdoc heading further down the walkway.
Three soldiers detached from the main force to track down Murdoc and Sarac. Murdoc waited right around the corner from the throne platform waiting for the soldiers. Sarac has ascended higher up. The walkway spiraled around the edge of the keep higher and higher. Junto having traversed the side of the keep pulled himself up over the ledge with much effort letting out a sigh of exhaustion as he stabled himself on the floor.
“Another.” shouted the soldiers still at the door.
A soldier started toward Junto his spear raised. Junto in a panic stepped back dropping his club over the edge and nearly falling off himself. The soldier smiled closing in on his kill. He struck forward as Junto leapt back his foot slipping off the edge. Junto fell bashing his chin off the smooth stone floor of the keep as his feet kicked at the rocks below. The soldier stepped forward a few more steps to jab his spear at Junto sending him off the ledge and into the ocean far below. Junto found his footing on the rocks below and lurched forward grabbing the soldiers spear and yanked it back. Both Junto and the soldier tumbled over the ledge. The soldier fell into the abyss below as Junto fell back toward the bridge the rope still tied around his waist.
The first of the guards raced around the corner and were immediately met by Murdoc’s club. The soldier’s face was shattered. The other two soldiers surprised at the attack were momentarily stunned. Murdoc used this time to grab one of the soldiers and slammed his against the side of the walkway causing his to topple over the side and into the water below. The remaining soldier raised his sword prepared to engage with Murdoc.
Sarac found Braka at the top of the keep, a leveled off area of smooth stone. Braka turned as Sarac walked onto the platform his club raised.
Braka shook his head “Why?” asked Braka.
“You know what you have done.” replied Sarac.
Braka looked back down at the peasants below trying to make their way in.
“It’s time for a new king.” said Sarac soothingly.
Braka eyes changed. He looked up at the horizon and sighed then looked over at Sarac. He held a stone knife in his hand that was trembling.
“Put it down Braka and give me the crown…and you will be given a trial, I swear it.” said Sarac.
Braka eyed Sarac curiously and started walking toward him. As Braka neared his pace quickened.
“Braka…” warned Sarac but it was too late.
Braka leaped at Sarac his eyes blazing with madness. Sarac raised his club to block the blow. The club hit against Braka’s forearm but the power of the blow was too strong. Braka’s knife slashed down into the front of Sarac’s shoulder. Sarac cried out in pain as he sunk to the ground. Braka went to strike again when Sarac kicked out with his foot. The kick struck Braka in the knee sending him falling back. Braka leapt again tearing into Sarac with the knife. Sarac tried to hold back the knife but Braka the Mad fought with the strength of many men.
Sarac finally managed to tear Braka away from him. Throwing him aside Sarac regained his club and swung his club with all of his might. The club struck soundly against Braka’s jaw. Braka fell back his jaw broken. He stumbled back and forth mumbling a few words as blood poured from his mouth.
“For your own sake give me the crown Braka.” pleaded Sarac.
Braka looked up at Sarac his eyes filled with madness once more. He charged forward again his knife held above his head. Sarac struck again, his club smashing against Braka’s chipped wooden mask splintering it and killing the mad king. Sarac collapsed to the ground his shoulder numb and his chest pained with evert breath.
Below Murdoc finished up his bout with the soldier with a strike to the side of the soldier’s head sending him tumbling off the walkway into the pit below. Below him the peasants had broken through killing what was left of Braka’s men. Seeing the soldiers overcome below Murdoc made his way to the top of the keep where he found Sarac the crown in his hands.
The next morning upon rising Sarac was made king of Rex Innis and the keep given to him as his home.
“Long may he reign.” shouted the peasants gathered around the pit in the keep.
The peasants tossed flowers into the pit floating down to the ocean below. Sarac sat on the throne with Murdoc at his right hand and Junto at his left.
“No longer will you suffer under a cruel king.” said Sarac rising from his throne.
The peasants cheered.
“What is first order of business milord?” asked Junto.
“I will need a guard assembled to help fend off any raiders that may come to these shores. Murdoc will be captain and I will need ten other worthy and loyal volunteers.”
Ten strong sons of the peasants stepped forth immediately.
“Very good…training for the guard will begin tomorrow. Next we will begin cultivating the land, building homes, and farms. I will give the details to Junto. Long live my people.” said Sarac stretching out his arms.
Junto handed him the King’s Sword that Braka had left by the throne. Sarac took it and raised it high to the cheers of the people.
Months passed as the land prospered under the rule and guidance of Sarac and his advisor Junto and captain of the guard Murdoc. The wall to the castle was rebuilt and reinforced. The peasants moved their homes closer to the castle as construction on granaries and a pub took place. The King’s Guards patrolled the land training daily and defended the peasants from the wildlife and the few lawbreakers Rex Innis had to offer.
Sarac stood at his throne tossing a flower down into the pit below.
“Good king.” greeted Junto as he entered the keep.
“Hello Junto.” replied Sarac
“How goes it?”
“Well, very well milord. The wolf population has been put in check and the last of Bryant’s band hung.”
“Very good.” replied Sarac.
“Yes, all is well with you as king.”
Sarac grinned “There are always more problems to face good friend.”
Sarac walked out across the bridge and too the gallows where Bryant and his final man still hung. The King’s Guards with Murdoc at the front of the bridge stood watch.
“Thank you good king.” said a peasant seeing Sarac “This man has terrorized us since before the reign of Braka.”
“He will do so no more.” replied Sarac.
The peasant smiled wide and shook his head “No, no he won’t.”
“And it was not I but them.” said Sarac pointing to Murdoc and the King’s Guards.
The peasant made his way over to them, thanking them.
“What work will you begin on next milord?” asked Junto
“The granary is well?”
“Will be filled before winter.”
“Good. Then we shall begin on rebuilding the farms, shops, and houses of the further countryside.”
“Wonderful milord.”
Sarac breathed in deeply taking in the sunny countryside before him “This place is truly a heaven on Earth.” said Sarac.
“Only with a noble king.” replied Junto.
A year passed with Sarac as the king of the island. The people and land flourished under his rule. Their houses were rebuilt, their families grew, and the land was protected by the fierce King’s Guard. Sarac often stood at the top of the keep, looking over his land.
“Thought I would find you up here.” Sarac turned around to see Murdoc walking up behind him.
“I can just about see them all from here, to the end of the island.” replied Sarac.
“So you can.” said Murdoc looking out over the island “A true paradise…made even more so by your guidance.”
“And your strong hand.” replied Sarac.
The two sat in silence for a few moments staring out over the island.
“I have news.” said Murdoc
“Good?” asked Sarac.
Murdoc’s smile widened “The best.”
“Well…”
“My son was born today and my wife has survived as well.”
“What a blessed day Murdoc we shall celebrate…a feast. The captain of the guard’s first child.” Sarac started walking back to the stairs “Come at once we will begin.”
The King’s Guard as well as the king’s advisors and close friends gathered around the table to celebrate the birth of Murdoc’s child.
“What will you name him?” asked Sarac after they had finished eating.
“Landon.” replied Murdoc.
Sarac smiled “He would be proud.”
Murdoc nodded.
A few weeks later Sarac himself had a son. He was named Rulf. Heir to the throne should Sarac live that long.
“What is our next project?” asked Junto standing by the king’s throne.
“Boats.” replied Sarac.
A storm gathered a few miles out.
“Never have I seen skies so dark.” said Sarac watching the storm from the top of the keep.
“Nor I.” replied Thea, Sarac’s wife and queen of Rex Innis.
Thea pulled Rulf closer to his breast as Sarac stroked his son’s head sighing.
“Sir.” Sarac turned to see Junto “You should get inside before the storm gets here.”
“We’ll be fine.” replied Sarac.
“Milord you do not understand every decade or so we have a storm that wrecks the entire countryside. I believe this storm to be it. You must get within the keep and stay there until it passes.”
Sarac looked back at the storm that seemed to deepen into a darker shade of black “I have never seen such a cloud before, Thea take Rulf and go with Junto. Bring them to safety. Junto I will return, I must make sure the countryside is prepared.”
‘They know of the storm milord.” replied Junto.
“I know of one who does not.” replied Sarac rushing off.
The rains began pouring before Sarac had left the bridge. Making his way toward Murdoc’s house Sarac lost his way twice and to trace back his steps. The rains continued to fall heavier and heavier until Sarac could barely see a few feet in front of him. Crashing against Murdoc’s home Sarac beat on the door. He heard a heavy support removed and the door opened. Sarac fell in shivering.
Murdoc bent over picking him up “What on Earth are you doing Sarac?”
“I came to warn you of the storm.”
Murdoc shut the door and placed back in the support.
“Put him by the fire.” he instructed to his wife “You fool Sarac you could have got yourself killed.” said Murdoc.
“I had to warn you.” replied Sarac.
Murdoc began laughing “I have eyes Sarac and my wife would not be so cruel as to give me no warning.”
Sarac shook his head “Perhaps I am being a fool.”
Murdoc laughed.
“They say this storm comes once in a decade.” said Sarac.
“Yes, it destroys so much.” said Bree, Murdoc’s wife who was holding Landon.
“How long does it last?” asked Sarac.
“Normally a day sometimes, a little more, we will be safe in here.” replied Bree.
Murdoc sat in a chair by Sarac “Nothing to do now but wait.”
Dain felt the salt water splash against his face filling his mouth and nostrils. The storm raged about him tossing his boat to and fro.
“We’re going down Dain.” said Jarin, Dain’s right hand man.
“Damn these waters.” said Dain spitting salt water out of his mouth.
“To that island and pray there are no reefs.” ordered Dain yelling over the sounds of the storm.
The boat made it ways toward Rex Innis but did not make it. The boat hit on rocks and started taking water, going down. Dain leapt from the side of the boat determined to put as much distance between the sinking ship and himself as possible. Jarin leapt in behind him.
“Swim, swim for your lives.” yelled Dain.
Sarac woke to find Murdoc standing outside. The sun shone brightly down on the battered land. He stood up and walked out the door.
“So peaceful.” said Murdoc.
“So it is.” replied Sarac.
Junto came rushing up to Sarac “Milord! I thought you were dead!”
“Quite alive friend.” replied Sarac smiling.
“Quick we must get you to your family, Thea fears the worst.”
“Right away.” said Sarac “I will see you soon then friend.”
“You will.” replied Murdoc.
Back at the keep, Sarac embraced Thea and his son.
“How was it?” asked Sarac.
“The storm was fine, but missing you was not.” replied Thea sobbing lightly as she held onto Sarac.
“I must go about the countryside and see who needs help.” said Sarac
“Right away milord, Murdoc assembles the King’s Guard as we speak.” said Junto.
Dain drank deeply from the lake in front of him. Jarin and a few other men from his ship were stretched out around him. Sitting back Dain took in the sunlit paradise around him as he began to doze off. A sound brought Dain back from the edge of sleep. Two men clad in armor were making their way around the lake. Dain’s eyes widened and heart race quickened as he seized his axe and smacked Jarin.
Jarin groaned “Get up you oaf.” said Dain kicking Jarin’s side.
Jarin’s eyes opened “What is it?”
“We have company.” said Dain.
Jarin leaned up grabbing his scimitar from his side.
“Two soldiers.” said Dain pointing.
“Kill em?” asked Jarin rubbing his eyes.
“I want you to hide and be ready should anything go south.”
The two hid in bushes as the two soldiers strode into view of Dain’s other men still lying prostrate on the ground.
“What is this?” asked one of the soldiers walking over to the fallen sailors.
“Ship wreck perhaps.” said the other soldier standing a few feet away.
Dain looked at Jarin “See if they are friendly.” he whispered.
Jarin nodded and stepped forward from the bushes. The soldiers jumped back brandishing their weapons.
“Hold friends…I see you are civilized people. Seeing you in the distance I was not sure so I hid. Forgive me for startling you.” the soldiers seeing Jarin spoke their language and seemed friendly relaxed their grips on their weapons.
“Now please can one of you tell me where I am?”
“Rex Innis.”
“I have never heard of the place, forgive me. Who is king here?”
“Well Sarac’s the king after slaying Braka.”
“I see…is this Sarac friendly to outsiders?”
“Sarac is friendly and just to all.” replied the soldier.
“Then I must request aid for me and my men.” replied Jarin.
“Of course, to the keep. We will get you what you need.” said the soldier.
Dain watched Jarin and his men head up towards the keep and he slipped away into the countryside to keep an eye on all that would take place.
“Welcome to our home.” said Sarac greeting Jarin.
Jarin’s men lined the side of the keep where attendants gave them food and water.
“Please take you fill of water and food. Then when you are ready I would most like to hear your story.” said Sarac
“Of course.” replied Jarin.
Murdoc stood off to the corner his brows furrowed studying Jarin and his men intently. After eating and drinking their fill Jarin sat back was a satisfied sigh and began his story.
“I am the captain of a small trading vessel, we were on our way to Sutenland when we were sidetracked by that storm. Before we knew it our ship had struck rocks and we started taking on water. We jumped out into the storm tossed sea realizing our vessel with sunk, luckily a few of us were able to escape the wrath of the storm and make it on land.”
“Quite a tale. That storm was the fiercest I’ve ever seen. We are glad to see you well. Where did your vessel originate from?”
“We hail from Tuval, this island must be halfway between our homeland and Sutenland.”
“And what supplies did you vessel carry?”
“We had an assortment. Our current shipment had been some precious metals, now lost forever to the ocean floor.”
“I see…well we here have yet to develop a boat so resuming your travel will be difficult for the time being.”
“Yet to develop a boat?” asked Jarin.
“That’s right.” replied Sarac.
“When I saw this bridge and keep I thought I was walking into a land of engineering giants yet you have not built a boat.”
“That is because we have had other priorities Jarin.” said Sarac.
Jarin held up his hands “Forgive me, where are my manners…so it seems we are stuck here for now.”
“For the time being. You may journey to Sutenland or Tuval on our first journeys there.”
“Which will be?”
“Within the year if all goes well.”
“The year?”
Sarac nodded.
“This is…surprising.”
“You’ll find Rex Innis quite a pleasant place.”
“Thank you. Where shall me and my men stay?”
“We have a place at the edge of the bridge that we built just for guests, which we’ve had very few of. You may stay there.”
“Thank you very much good king.” said Jarin bowing.
“I don’t trust them.” said Murdoc standing on top of the keep with Sarac.
“Can’t say I do either but for now they are weak and strangers. We must offer them hospitality.”
“Perhaps but I wouldn’t be without a guard during their stay.”
“Their stay may be for some time, but I will remember that.” replied Sarac.
“There was something he wasn’t telling us.” said Murdoc.
“What do you mean?”
“He acted…strange. I can’t put my finger on it just keep a careful eye on him.”
“I will and I sensed something to be off as well.”
“King?” said a voice behind them.
“Yes, Junto?”
“The travelers are in the home down the way.”
“Very good Junto”.
“Is there anything else you require?”
“Take two of the guards and have them watch over the travelers.” said Murdoc.
“Sir?”
“Do as he says.” said Sarac.
“Very well milord.” Junto disappeared down the stairs.
Murdoc and Sarac sat in silence watching the moonlit land stretching out below them.
“I’m going down there tonight.” said Murdoc.
“You do not have too.” replied Sarac.
“I feel something…I must.”
“Very well friend. I will see you in the morning. Let us hope your feeling is nothing more than that.”
“Unfortunately I doubt that.” replied Murdoc.
Dain snuck into the traveler’s appointed home as soon as Junto and the guards accompanying him had left.
Jarin drew him scimitar when he entered “Sorry.” said Jarin sheathing his sword seeing his commander.
“This kingdom is rich and ripe for the plunder.”
“That it is.” replied Jarin smiling.
“The king how is he?”
“A fool.” said Jarin.
“Good…good.” replied Dain “Does he trust you?”
“I don’t think so.” replied Jarin.
“Then he will have you watched and I must go.”
“Where are you going to go?”
“See if any in this country wish to share in the plunder.” with those words Dain slipped out into the night.
“The king has requested two guards to watch over the travelers tonight.” said Junto standing in front of the King’s Guard
Rorin and Turin, the two soldiers that had first discovered the shipwrecked refugees volunteered.
“Very well go down there at once and stand guard by the door. If they ask say that all strangers to these lands are watched and that they are not to leave during the night.”
“Yes sir.” replied the two in unison setting off.
“Wait.” a voice cut them off from behind.
The two turned back “I am coming as well.” Murdoc appeared from the walkway.
“You go as well?” asked Junto.
Murdoc leaned over to Junto and whispered “The guests are not be trusted…guard the king and yourself well tonight friend.”
Junto gave Murdoc a puzzled look but nodded “Yes sir.”
When the three had left Junto turned to the rest of the guards.
“Be extra vigilant tonight, Murdoc believes our guests are planning something.”
The guards all nodded in response.
“Your land is fat and ripe.” Dain stood before a group of fifteen peasants assembled before him.
“Do you not wish for power…for a place in the keep?” the peasants assembled all nodded
“Then take what is rightfully yours. Down with this fool strutting around the castle. Are any of you not just as deserving as he? Why must one man rule? Can we not all lead ourselves equally?”
The peasants grumbling gave way to shouts.
“Grab your torches and go, set fire to the land and then when then when the king’s lapdogs rush out from the castle and are dispersed through the land, we will strike.”
The gathered peasants laughed and cheered setting out with their torches.
“Sarac!” Sarac leapt up from his bed to see Junto in the doorway.
“What is it?” asked Sarac.
“Don your armor, the countryside is ablaze.” said Junto.
“What?” yelled Sarac rushing for his gear.
“The men have set out already.”
“Keep some here to protect our families.” replied Sarac.
“Already done.”
“Then we set out now.”
Murdoc rushed up to Sarac as he raced down the bridge “The travelers have not moved all night.” reported Murdoc.
Sarac glanced over at the building as they passed.
“Rorin, Turin stay here and guard them.” said Sarac.
The guards nodded.
“Be safe milord.” called out Turin as Sarac raced toward the flames.
Dain with his peasants waited off the side of the bridge until Sarac, Murdoc, Junto, and the guards had passed. Once they were out of view Dain turned to the peasants.
“The fire will keep them occupied but not forever. Your first order is to slay the guards that keep my men prisoner, and then I will lead you to the castle where you may take what you wish.”
The peasant’s eyes gleamed upon hearing Dain’s words.
“Now go.” ordered Dain.
The peasants surged out of the woods towards Rorin and Turin.
“What’s this.” said Turin to the gathered mass of peasants.
The peasant’s faces twisted into cruel smiles as they bore down on their victims.
Rorin hefted up his spear skewering the front peasant. Turin went for his sword but was tackled before he reached it. The two were quickly overwhelmed and beaten to death.
“Give their weapons and armor to my men.” ordered Dain.
Dain knocked on the door waking up Jarin.
“It’s time.” called out Dain.
Jarin rose from his bed with a smile.
The peasants had fought the blaze hard finally getting it contained.
“Milord, milord” a peasant rushed up to Sarac shouting.
“What is it?” asked Sarac
“There are some missing from their homes, something is wrong.”
Sarac looked over at Murdoc “Back to the keep.” yelled Sarac
“All loyal peasants not needed to contain the fire are to arm themselves and head to the keep at once, spread the word.” yelled Sarac.
“What has happened?” asked Junto as they rushed back toward the bridge.
“Treachery.” replied Sarac. “Junto gather those loyal here and meet us at the keep as soon as you can.”
Junto nodded.
Dain struck down the last of the gate guard “There is nothing stopping us now.” said Dain turning to the peasants “Inside lies the king’s family and wealth do as you wish with them.”
The peasants moved through the open gate made their way toward the keep.
“Hold.” a mighty shout echoed down the bridge.
Rushing toward them ran the king followed by Murdoc, Junto, and the five remaining members of the King’s Guard. Dain looked around at his men. He has lost seven peasants taking the wall but still had enough to deal with the king without risking his own neck.
“There is the king himself, the tyrant that denies you, slay him.” shouted Dain.
The peasants worked up into a fury turned away from the keep and toward the king.
The peasant horde ran haphazardly into Sarac’s forces. The King’s Guard trained as they were, were able to hold them off. Dain and Jarin waited with their remaining men hoping the peasants would do their work for them. Murdoc struck first with his sword cutting down the first peasant breaking past the King’s Guard. Two of the peasants bloodied and dying attached themselves to one of the King’s Guards and went over the ledge with him. The other peasants were quickly dispatched but manage to wound and slow down most of the guards.
“Come men, let’s finish this and take the kingdom.” said Dain as he started forth.
“What have you done.” shouted Sarac.
“I am taking what is mine king.” replied Dain.
“What is yours? You are nothing but a marauder.”
“Perhaps, but that will not stop them from serving me and your kingdom coming under my control.”
“We shall see.”
Jarin and his men rushed forward.
As the two groups collided Jarin found himself tied up with Sarac as Dain struck down one of the King’s Guards. Murdoc was tied up with a giant who was driving him toward the edge of the bridge. Jarin attacked Sarac with a ferocious fury trying to overwhelm the king into submission. Dain cut down another of the guard as the two remaining having slain their opponents raced towards Dain to put him down. Murdoc slid around desperately as his feet neared the edge of the bridge the giant overpowering him.
Nearing it Murdoc fell back placing his boot in the stomach of the giant and used the momentum of the fall to throw the giant over top of him and off the side of the bridge. The giant was taken by surprise and plunged down to his death below. Dain slew the two remaining King’s Guard and made his way to aid Jarin. Rising to his feet Murdoc cut him off and engaged with him.
Jarin lunged for Sarac but missed. Sarac’s blade bit down into Jarin’s shoulder. He dropped his sword and fell clutching at the wound.
“Surrender and you will be shown mercy.” said Sarac panting.
Jarin looked up at the king and nodded.
“Surrender now.” said Sarac his voice rising.
“I surrender.” Sarac looked down at him and smashed his pommel into the side of Jarin’s head.
Jarin collapsed unconscious. His enemy out Sarac rushed to help Murdoc. Out of the corner of his eye Dain saw Sarac coming toward him.
Dain cursed and began backing up from Murdoc. Dain made a move as if to turn and rush away. Murdoc rushed forward to capitalize on it but Dain spun, his sword missing but then his pommel coming back and crashing into the side of Murdoc’s jaw sending him reeling toward the edge of the bridge his sword still in hand. The space he wanted created Dain turned and sped towards the castle as Sarac rushed to Murdoc to prevent him from falling off the ledge. Murdoc regained his feet and stumbled a few paces forward.
“After him.” yelled Sarac panicked.
Murdoc steadied himself and rushed after Dain “He will not make it too your family Sarac I swear.” shouted Murdoc.
The two pounded down the bridge to Dain. Dain gained the gate and turned to shut it but Murdoc was already closing in on him. Cursing Dain turned and fled further down the bridge. He made it through the open keep door and slammed it shut bolting it behind him. Murdoc crashed into it as the bolt set in place.
“Damn.” shouted Murdoc wailing on the door.
“It is no use, follow me.” called Sarac from behind.
Sarac made it to the ledge where he had gained the entrance to the keep before.
“You have no rope Sarac.” gasped Murdoc.
“It matters little come, I must get to them.”
Murdoc nodded and stepped out onto the ledge. The two worked their ways across as quickly as they could and made it into the keep. Dain sat on the throne with Thea stretched out below him and Rulf in his hand.
“Another step king and your son will feed the sharks.” called out Dain.
“Bastard.” shouted Murdoc.
Sarac held up his hand for Murdoc to be silent.
“Take the throne but please leave my child alone.”
Dain shifted in his throne realizing he had Sarac.
“And my wife.” added in Sarac.
Dain smiled and looked down at Thea “Had she not resisted so, she may have lived a little longer.” said Dain kicking Thea’s body down into the pit.
Sarac and Murdoc watched with horror as the lifeless form of Thea splashed down into the ocean far below.
“Please give me my child.” pleaded Sarac dropping to his knees “Take the kingdom, take whatever it is you wish but not my child.”
“Your weapon, toss it aside.” ordered Dain.
Sarac tossed the King’s Sword, it clattered across the stone floor coming to rest by the door to the bridge.
“Now the crown take it off your head.” ordered Dain.
Sarac removed his crown.
“Bring it to me.” Sarac started up the stairs to Dain.
“You.” Dain pointed at Murdoc.
“Stay where you are and your weapon…to the side with it.”
Murdoc begrudgingly tossed his weapon over to where Sarac’s had fallen.
“Good.” said Dain smiling.
Sarac walked onto the covered walkway that led to the throne.
“Here.” said Dain indicating for Sarac to place the crown in front of him.
Sarac did as he was told.
“Now on your knees there.” Dain indicated to a space in front of the throne overlooking the pit. Dain watching Sarac carefully put down Rulf and placed the crown on his head. Sarac started for Rulf but Dain moved his sword threateningly over the baby.
“Not yet dear king.” said Dain.
Dain picked Rulf back up and sat back in the throne.
“Now.” said Dain looking down at Rulf “What to do with your father.”
“Please.” begged Sarac standing up.
“On your knees before your king.” barked Dain.
Sarac dropped to his knees.
“And you down there, you too.” said Dain to Murdoc.
Murdoc did not budge.
“Very well.” said Dain standing up.
Dain held Rulf over the pit.
“Murdoc!” yelled Sarac.
Murdoc dropped to one knee.
“And the other.” said Rulf pointing his sword at Murdoc’s raised knee.
Cursing Murdoc dropped his other knee. Suddenly the keep door burst open. Peasants bearing the bloodied body of Junto spilled out.
“I see my men have been successful. I have done this for you, for the people.” said Dain raising his hands towards the peasants.
“For the people.” replied the peasants tossing Junto’s battered body into the pit.
“Him too.” said Dain pointing toward Murdoc.
“For the people.” chanted the peasants making their way toward Murdoc.
“Back.” yelled Murdoc standing.
“On your knees or the baby dies.” yelled Dain.
Murdoc glanced at Sarac.
Sarac shook his head “Stand brother.”
“What?” asked Dain turning toward Sarac.
In one motion Sarac stood up and pounced forward towards Rulf. Dain let go of the baby who tumbled down into the abyss below. Sarac leapt grabbing for his son but he was short. Rulf’s form hit against the ledge and caught on a rocky outcrop a few feet below the exposed walkway. Sarac leapt down to his son.
Murdoc let out a mighty roar barreling toward the peasants. Seizing his son Sarac looked up to see Dain standing above him.
“Then you will die with him.” said Dain swinging his sword.
Sarac fell back nearly toppling over the edge. The peasants rushed at Murdoc with their axes and scythes. Murdoc gripped the arm of the first peasant and wrenched the axe from his grasp. Seizing it in his own hand he turned it against the second peasant who bore down on him with a scythe. Murdoc struck killing the peasant and then struck again killing the other he was still engaged with. The third peasant had gone to retrieve the King’s Sword and now moved toward Murdoc with it bared before him. Murdoc struck aside the peasant’s sword and rammed his shoulder into him. The peasant let go of the sword as he crashed into the ground Murdoc pouncing on him and sinking his axe into the peasant’s chest.
Dain swung again. Sarac fell back further holding Rulf tight to his chest.
“Only a matter of time.” taunted Dain.
Sarac eyes blazed with anger as he swung his legs over the side on the ledge of the outcrop high above the ocean below, getting as far away from Dain’s sword as he could.
Seeing Dain on the walkway Murdoc lifted his axe high and chucked it. The axe struck, the dull end against Dain’s chest throwing his forward trading places with Sarac who leapt up and ran toward the stairs “My sword, my sword.” shouted Sarac running toward Murdoc as Dain recovered.
As he stepped off the stairs Murdoc handed him his sword.
Sarac pushed Rulf into Murdoc’s hand “Please take him away from here.”
“I must fight with you.” shouted Murdoc.
“Take him please.” urged Sarac.
Murdoc shook his head “I will fight.” Murdoc shoved Rulf back into Sarac’s hands and took up the stairs with his sword.
“You only postpone your fate.” yelled Dain meeting him with a swinging ax.
Murdoc swung his sword clipping Dain. Dain cursed as blood began trickling down his arm. He was pushed back up the stairs and onto walkway. Murdoc lashed out again by the throne striking Dain and sending his sprawling back onto it. He spat curses at Murdoc as Murdoc sent his sword forward through Dain’s chest ending his string of curses. Dain gasped then let out a groan his head lolling to one side, dead. Murdoc fell against the throne exhausted.
He turned back toward Sarac a smile on his face when a form rushed up behind him.
“Sarac!” yelled Murdoc but it was too late.
A blade pierced through Sarac’s back and out the other side. Behind him stood Jarin a cruel smile on his lips. Sarac clutched Rulf as he fell against the ground.
“You’ll be next.” said Jarin turning to Murdoc.
Murdoc let out a roar and raced forward as Jarin raised his sword to kill Rulf. Murdoc leapt from the heights of the throne and down toward Jarin across the exposed ocean. Murdoc’s sword struck down into Jarin’s head as he landed. Murdoc legs snapped out under him as he made contact with the ground. His foe slain, he laid splayed out in pain unable to move, his friend dead beside him.
Murdoc was carried to a large stone tomb and sat before it. On the tomb it read “Here lies Sarac son of Carac noble king and loyal friend.”
“Thank you.” said Murdoc turning to his peasants.
“It does him honor.” said a peasant looking at Murdoc.
“Yes…yes it does.”
“King?”
“Yes?” asked Murdoc turning to a peasant.
“You will raise his son as your own?”
“Yes, he will always be royalty.” replied Murdoc.
The peasant nodded “Then you are as noble as he.”
“No…no I am not.” replied Murdoc.
The peasant did not respond. After a few hours there the peasants carried Murdoc to the throne where he sat with his wife and children to rule Rex Innis in the coming days.
