04 Jan 2006
The monsters are coming. They are like a plague on our lands. They befoul our rivers with their unworthy feet. They march over our fields and crush the sugarcane beneath them. How I hate them! My people live in terror of their coming, and even in my bushi warriors I see the fear of the beast. And the people, every one of them, farmer and soldier alike, look to me for protection.
What am I to do? I am young. I have fought in no more than nine battles, but I am expected to live up to my fathers reputation. He was one of the greatest warriors in all of Cathay, and he led this kingdom into a new era of prosperity. For seventeen years, trade thrived and even the poorest of cultivators could have been considered rich by western standards. Until the monsters claimed my fathers life as well.
So now it is up to me, Hojo Kamakura, Emperor of Cathay, son of Heishi Kamakura, to put a stop to the invaders. How? Why has this task come to rest on my shoulders? Father, give me guidance. Father, give me strength.
***
My father has come to me in my meditations. He entered my mind as a spark of light, a tiny wisp of hope, perhaps. He spoke, and as he did the spark and his voice grew until it filled my mind and assailed all of my senses. He told me what I must do, and as he spoke I felt my spirits rise.
He told me of my destiny.
***
Much is happening. All along the borders of this city, the lower men in our society have set to their work with a will, overseen by my personally-selected Daiki commanders. Armies are being raised in Kanto to the south, Kyoto to the north and Kyushu to the east. Scouts have been sent out, and it is my hope that within the month they return with the news that I so need to hear.
Most of my people are flocking to this city in the hundreds. My castles and my halls are packed to the doors with families of Cathayans, and the horse-paddocks are slowly becoming smaller with tents and small houses being raised in every direction. And all around them, a great dike is being built.
Fifteen feet across and getting deeper by the day, this dike. From my fathers books of lore, I take it that these monsters are near to ten feet in height. Once the dike is complete, it shall have stakes rising from the ground, hopefully preventing the monsters from simply climbing in and out. For some additional protection, I plan to scatter the ground with broken glass which has been seeped in poison.
One bridge has been built, merely a stone continuation of the main road leading into the trees on the borders of Cathay. It is strong, but not so strong as to resist our efforts to break it down when the monsters arrive.
***
My armies are slowly coming together. There shall be five defense forces, each made up of three thousand men, stationed around the city. And then there shall be the outer forces, totaling fifteen thousand, positioned between the dike and the walls. A Daiki loyal to my father shall lead each force of three thousand. I refuse to give up my kingdom.
***
The monsters are but a few weeks march away, and not one of my scouts have returned. I can only hope they still live, for I need all the information they can gather.
The villagers are still working, and with the threat of the monsters looming over their heads they often drag themselves to work long before the sun rises and then do not retire until long after sundown. Their efforts are honourable; the gods shall smile on them when the black shadow of death inevitably descends upon them.
***
My father has come to me again, in the same way he has done before. He told me that I myself must seek out the monsters, and with me I must take only three companions. One must be a general, another must be a scholar, and another must be one of the few blemishes on our once-perfect society. I must take with me a criminal.
I made my way down to the cells. The stench in this area of the town is almost unbearable, and I was forced to hold a cloth to my face as I walked. The building where Cathays criminals are housed is huge but with only one-storey, solid granite from the floor to the roof. Guards in faultless bushi armour, polished at every opportunity, stand at each corner and doorway, as escape attempts are a weekly commodity here. Indeed, just last week a group of convicts had escaped and claimed the lives of three warriors and six villagers before they were brought down.
The guards at the main door, six of them, came together in perfectly synchronised salute. I waved my free hand at them and two went to the door and spoke into the keyhole as the others fell back into attention. The great wooden doors swung open before me, and I strode in.
The corridor was dank, and the stench intensified with every step I took. Guards lined the entire passageway, each about five feet away from the next and standing with their backs facing the cell doors. I drew the cloth away from my face, flinching at the horrid smell. I struggled to regain my composure, waving at the air before I ordered the guards to assemble the prisoners in a line. The warriors hurried to unlock the doors and usher their prisoners out before me.
A ragged bunch indeed, they were each was clothed in filthy foreign linen, and most looked like the only thing they were suited for was the end of a noose or beneath a guillotine. I walked up and down this line, questioning each prisoner as I went. All had terrible offences to speak of, and showed no respect to me. I struck several of them about the face as they spoke ill of my father and myself.
I turned to the guards, and asked them,
Are these the only criminals in Cathays care? Their numbers seem mightily diminished since last I came here.
It is true, Emperor, as we had to end several to bring their little rebellion in check. But there are a few more. I can lead you to them, if you please. One of the warriors said.
They led me to a staircase. These people were not fit to stay above ground, the guards told me, so I followed them down into the darkness.
One of the guards gathered a lantern from its setting in the wall, and then went about the business of bringing in the prisoners. I heard, rather than saw, the guards lashing out at the sullen bunch of convicts. Soon they stood arrayed before me only three men, all of them looking as though in another life they would have been capable of amazing things. Terrible things, perhaps. They were shackled at the ankles and wrists, and each wore an iron collar through which a chain could be fed, to lead the convicts through the streets like dogs.
Name? I asked each of them in turn.
Oda Nobunga. The tallest one said.
Akio Kure. The next said.
The shortest of the three, but powerfully built and sporting a bush of dull red hair, did not answer when I asked him his name. His eyes bored into mine with an unmoving expression of disinterest.
Your name? I asked again. Still the dotard did not answer. Do you wish to incite the wrath of the Emperor? Speak!
His silence was angering me. Not only that, but his eyes his eyes. As you look at those pits of grey, you feel as though you are entirely useless. It felt, for those few seconds I stared into his eyes, like I was the prisoner, and he was the Emperor.
His name if Grigor. Hes a Northman. The guard closest to him said. I nodded to the warrior, then turned back to the man.
Your offence, Grigor? I continued.
I have committed no offence. The Northman said. His voice was surprisingly deep, his language heavily accented.
Guard?
Treason, murder and body desecration. He raided Cathayan villages in Kanto with other men of his creed. When we caught him, he was busy decapitating those who had been slain in the fighting and collecting their heads as trophies.
Atrocious! You deserve naught but the noose on this very day. I said. I saw in my mind a vision of that man, covered in blood that was not his own, ambling through the flaming houses of a Cathayan village to mutilate the bodies of those that had fallen with honour against him. It was akin to the worst of my nightmares.
By your standards, of course. But by mine? Treason, murder, and body desecration, you say. In my home, it would be called ascension to greatness. Even now, the Gods look down on me, and they smile at my actions. Grigor said, and his eyes flashing with malice as he spoke.
Perhaps, not a death sentence for you. Something far worse can only be suited for a criminal such as yourself. Send for the executioner and take Grigor the Northman to the torture racks. I said. I am an Emperor, and I was not accustomed to be shown such contempt. It would not be tolerated.
A pair of guards seized the Northman and forcefully moved him up and into the light. We made our way down to the torture chamber, a room at the very centre of the prison with doors of stone. A thin shaft of light came through a gap in the ceiling, glinting off the wicked blades contained in this room. They were many, wickedly curved fish-hooks and jagged scimitars.
The guards ripped off the Northmans shirt and threw him over a wooden beam. His wrists were leashed over his head and a nail hammered into the chain to stop him from moving. The same was done to his ankles, and then the executioner came forward.
The executioner wore a veil of canvas, hiding his face. His hands were stained with gallons of other mens blood. Not one man in all of Cathay knows where he came from, or what his name truly is. But he is skilled in the art of persecution, so he found a way into his position as executioner. His power is terrifying he knows exactly how much each part of a mans body can take, he knows just how to send a man to the brink of death and yet bring him back for more.
He set to work with a hook, spearing it into Grigors stomach. The Northman grunted, his teeth grinding against each other in an effort to suppress a cry. His breath came in short gasps and he strained against his bonds, but he did not cry out.
Is that all you have for me, Pup? If this is all that awaits a criminal, I dont understand why you havent already been overthrown. What kind of man cannot even look into the eyes of he whom he intends to destroy? the Northman said, laughing madly.
I felt the contents of my own stomach coming up to my throat, and quickly made my way back to the door. I pushed it closed and then sunk to the floor, leaning on the wall. I sat there for some time, my eyes and mind soon closed against the rest of the world.
And yet again, a spark of light entered the darkness behind my eyelids. My father was coming to me again, and I needed his advice.
Father! Not one among these criminals is suited to travel with me. Whom must I choose? Where must I look? I spoke out loud. The spark continued to grow, and for a moment there was complete silence.
You already know whom you must take. His voice grew in my head.
Alas! But I do not.
But you do. He is the one the fates have chosen. The one whose fate revolved solely around pain until now.
I knew. I knew instantly of whom my father was speaking. Pain the Northman seemed to thrive on it.
Him? Surely you do not expect me-
Yes. I do. It is fate. Every event that is building up in this land, in the entire East, it is fate. Your destiny lies on the same path as that warrior from the North. All that you must do is walk that path.
How, father? Tell me how! I questioned desperately, but already the light was fading back into darkness.
***
The Northman sat beside my throne, his muscled stomach covered in bandages. Already, his dressings had been changed three times and yet I could still see blood seeping from the numerous wounds the executioner had inflicted upon him.
You want me to go hunting with you? he said.
Scouting, as it were. Not hunting.
No matter the word you use. I do not understand you, eunuch. You have me all trussed up, have your puppy slice me open, and now you want me to go hunting with you? Some fine southern logic you show there, eunuch.
Emperor Kamakura, if you please. What does eunuch mean? I said. I was speaking in the eastern language, but I fancied he spoke with some northern dialect I could not understand.
Ah it is only a title befitting of a man such as yourself. But you did not answer my question.
I am in need of a ruthless man, one who will show no fear in the face of danger. I believe you are that man.
Have you ever seen me fight? Have you ever seen me in battle? No, you have not, so do not take such things for granted.
You took the punishment delivered to you by the executioner without fear. Very few sane men in this world would face the Chief Executioner of Cathay as bravely as you did. It pained me to compliment this braggart so, but if I was to convince him to stand beside me, it was necessary.
Who says that I am sane then, eh?
I was taken aback by this mans nature. Such compliments from the Emperor himself ought to make a man swell with pride to such a degree that his smile cannot be wiped from his face no matter what happens, and yet the Northman took it as though it was meaningless chatter in everyday conversation.
That is of no consequence. I need to know shall you come with me, to be free in the world again, or shall you stay in your cell to rot, every event of every day being predetermined, and no chance for greatness ever rearing its head for the rest of your life?
Ah. Well said, eunuch. You make me an offer even a madman wouldnt refuse. Ill come with you, eunuch just dont try to give me orders. You'll soon find I don't respond well to authority. Where are my effects?
***
It was a simple task, choosing my two other companions. Daiki Takeda I have known for all of my life. He is but a few years older than me, and I trained alongside him. He was always better than me. He rose quickly to become the Daiki of a field army as I was preparing to come into my inheritance. He is tall and thin, his hair beginning slowly to grey, but he is a master swordsman.
And for the scholar I had to look no further than Takedas own home. His wife, Hiriko, is renowned for her deductions on the Cathayan economy among many other things. She is probably my most trusted advisor, above even the counsellors of war who served my father. She is also known for being the most beautiful person in all of Cathay, perhaps in all of the known world. Her hair is dark as a winters night, and she has an aura about her that could drive a man to do things he would never usually have done. Her beauty is almost deceptive, and yet she is as sweet and innocent and a young child.
We packed up a surprisingly large amount of provisions in a grand carriage with six horses, and we found room enough to fit two men inside and one upon the drivers seat. The Northman claimed he was more than happy to walk, so I decided to allow him to stride alongside the carriage, at least for a while. Takeda would keep an eye on him, and if I wished I could open the carriages windows.
We left the city inconspicuously, passing under each of the mighty walls without anyone noticing that it was the Emperor of Cathay sitting within the carriage. I had left my trusted uncle in charge of the city whilst I was gone, but I felt it best that the people did not know that I was leaving with the threat of the monsters looming so large over Cathay.
As we were approaching the final gate, a warrior stepped out ahead of our carriage and hailed us with his hand. He wore a helmet that obstructed much of his face, and about his shoulders was a cape surely not part of a guardsmans uniform. A trivial matter, so I would not reveal myself in pursuit of it.
Who wishes to pass beneath the Gates of Samurai, and what is your intention? He asked to Takeda, who was driving.
Daiki Takeda of Cathay, twice honoured servant of Emperor Kamakura. I go to visit relatives in Kyoto.
I see, and I know who you are. Do you not know me?
I am sure I have made your acquaintance somewhere on the road, but if I have not, Im sure I will now. Takeda said coldly.
Indeed! The warrior laughed off Takedas comment. I served with you against the pirates in Kanto. My name is Athrus. However I am under strict orders not to allow any man, friend or nor, to pass these gates without a commission signed by the Emperor.
I had given no such order. It was confusing, but I did not give it a second thought.
I will consult with my passengers. Takeda said, and poked his head under the leather flap.
Emperor, he wants He started, but I cut him off.
I will deal with him personally, then. And then I threw back the flap, and moved into the light now flooding into the carriage.
You shall open this gate, and you shall tell no other of my departure. And remove that cloak. I said, and the warrior bowed low to the ground before shouting at his accomplices. The gate was pushed open before us, and Takeda swung the flap back down.
I could not see him, but rather I sensed that the warrior was staring at us long after we had passed.
***
The lands changed swiftly from civilized, flat plains littered with houses to an area of woodland, scattered with brambles and thickets of thorny bushes on the ground and thick trees rising high into the air. A clear, paved path ran through it, but gradually becoming rougher as we moved further away from Weijin, the chief city of Cathay.
The Northman still walked beside our carriage, staring around and at the road ahead. As they did when he looked at me in the prison, his eyes seemed to take in everything at once.
Why do you stare? There is naught to see for another few miles at least. I asked him, sliding open a window in the side of the carriage.
Why, I am busy trying to plan my escape, eunuch! He said jovially. I frowned, and a toothy smile came over his face.
No need to worry, eunuch, I jest! You see, it seems that certain allegiances I have made have resulted in my ability so see into the future. His expression had turned deadly serious.
Foresight? That is a powerful gift for anyone to grant you. I said. This man was a barbarian. A crude, nomadic barbarian. But if this power that he spoke of was real, he would soon become wise beyond his years. And powerful I shuddered as I thought of what he could do with his gift if he bent it to evil purposes.
Dont you worry, eunuch. For the most part, what I see is vague. Unclear. It is only when something amazing is in the works that I can see clearly.
Do you see anything for us? For me? I said, before I could think. I wished to find out about my destiny, I needed to find out about my destiny, but I could not expose myself to the Northman.
Well, eunuch But at that moment the carriage rolled into a pothole, frightening the horses and putting a stop to our conversation. He smiled, and turned away.
***
Night fell upon us slowly, the sun desperately trying to maintain its grip on the land but fighting a losing battle. Takeda and Grigor went about building a fire, and Hiriko walked into the impending darkness to look upon the stars.
I could hear clearly the sound of Grigors mighty axe striking something solid. After several uneven strokes, he soon fell into a rhythm. Chop, one, two, chop, one, two. Takeda emerged from the woods with kindling overflowing from his long arms.
A fine fire we shall build, Emperor once our companion returns with the firewood, of course. Takeda said, dumping the bundle and coming over to me.
Indeed. We have made good speed and we can afford a hearty meal, I should say! I said, smiling at my friend.
Never mind that. I am concerned, Emperor. he said, his eyes becoming narrow. The Northman has his little jokes, but I see far too much meaning hidden amongst them. My wife believes so too, and we fear for this mission and for your very life.
Criminal he may be, Takeda, but my father has chosen him, and I do not believe he will have lead me astray. Perhaps, the Northman is not the finest of companions, and I can understand that you are speaking from the heart, but he has knowledge within him that may be of great use to us. To me. Under different circumstances, I would agree with you without a doubt in my mind. But he is necessary.
As I was talking, the steady sound of axe striking wood stopped, and the night was still and silent for a brief moment. A small screech came from the Northmans direction, followed by a whooshing sound and then a quick thunk. Grigor had felled his tree.
It seems your firewood is almost ready, then. I said, and Takeda bowed and walked away.
***
Grigor came to our camp, the entire tree held over his shoulders. Well over twenty feet tall and perhaps two thick, and the Northman hefted it over his shoulders with apparent ease. He walked up to where Takeda squatted in his attempts to start a fire, scaring the horses as he brushed past them carelessly and dropped the tree, scattering some of Takedas kindling. Only now did beads of sweat appear on the Northmans forehead.
Got your firewood, General. He said. He eyed his axe, and continued, Ill need to sharpen this up again, though.
Takeda looked up at him scornfully.
Well need smaller pieces, convict.
Of course. Perhaps you could assist me, Mister Eunuch? The Northman said to me, and Takeda scoffed.
The Emperor has no need to dirty his hands when scum like yourself are available to do it for him.
Peace, Takeda. The Northman wishes for my help, and my help he shall have. I said, stepping in. The Northman grinned at me as I walked towards him, and handed me a hatchet. It looked and felt far lighter than the weapon he wielded so easily.
Takeda looked on with an expression of mingled shock and distaste, his eyes moving quickly between the Northman and myself. I did not like to contradict him, but he could not understand the importance of this man as I could. I hope he can realise someday.
***
Hiriko came running through the trees, sheer terror upon her face. She did not cry out, but she swept through the scrub with all the speed of someone in fear of her life. Takeda stood up swiftly and moved to her, scooping up his katana as he went.
What is it? What is it? He asked in the Cathayan language.
She fell into his arms, and choked, Monsters! Monsters close!
I pulled myself up, hastily strapping on my armour. The plates were hard as tempered steel, and layered for almost perfect protection. Each part was sheathed in leather the colour of the Northmans beard. I paced to the carriage, and pulled out a glossed wooden crate.
I lowered it to the ground, and fumbled with the locks. Once opened, it revealed what was held to be the finest weapon in all of Cathay the fabled katana of the Kamakura Clan, worn by generations of Cathayan Emperors. The hilt was embedded with but a single stone, unlike the swords of the West, and yet the stone set in this weapon was worth more than any other. It was a magma-gem, a glistening rock taken from inside the volcanoes in the east.
The blade still shined after centuries of use, and Cathayan runes were intricately carved along the bottom. They read roughly, The Highest Honour on one side, and Kamakura Ultimate on the other. I snatched up the blade, and moved to where Takeda still stood, comforting his wife.
We must move quickly. Well hide the carriage and move upwind. Northman, put out that fire! I said, raising my voice slightly. There was no answer from him, and the fire burned on. I grunted and moved to the fire, dousing it with the bucket of water set next to it.
I strode to where the Northman had been lying when last I had seen him, but he was not there.
Northman! I called out, but the night gave no answers.
That damned convict has run off. I knew no good would come of his presence. Let us go before the monsters reach us! Takeda said, and I knew he was right. He lead his wife to the carriage, muttered a few words to her and kissing her on the cheek. She nodded tearfully, and accepted his help to lift her into the carriage.
She will be safe there, Takeda. Do not worry. I said, and I lead the way through the trees. The Daiki glanced over his shoulder every few seconds, and I knew he did not heed my words. They were empty, and we both knew it.
***
We trod carefully through the night, sniffing the air and listening for any sound of the monsters. And it did not take us long to hear them. Their raucous laughter rang through the silence of the forest, and they had lanterns that pierced through the trees.
Now, where iz that pretty lady we has seen before, boss? One of them raised his hideous voice above the others.
Dunno. It was you that seen her. Whyd you let her get away?
Shes a quick un, that one. I tried to get her, I did, but she was too fast. Wheres the hunter, anyway? His kitties could track her down easy.
The hunters back with da rest of our army, and it was our job to bring back any uns who we see. But you is too slow for that, arent ya, you runty little fool?
Shutup, Golgfag, you didnt catch her neither.
I wasnt there, ya idiot! Now be quiet, we has got business to take care of here. Golgfag said.
We could see them clearly now. There were only five of them, but they were all colossal and carrying brutal weapons. They had huge, thick heads, their skin discoloured and sweaty. The biggest one was Golgfag he wore a black turban upon his head, and one of his beady eyes was covered with an eye patch. In his hands he had an unusual missile weapon, the likes of which I have never seen before. Over his back he carried a wicked spear, barbed and terrible.
The others were all relatively the same they wore travel-worn, filthy clothes, and carried clubs and maces and other such weapons. Each looked to be the equivalent of four or five Cathayan soldiers but Takeda and myself were no ordinary soldiers.
We weaved our way around the monsters, carefully positioning ourselves to carry out my plan. They were coming directly towards us now, but the wind was turning. A skilled tracker would pick up our scent.
Takeda. Gather a few rocks. I will climb this tree. Go to another, and wait for them to pass under us. Use the rocks to break their lanterns. Jump on the last to walk beneath you. Kill them quickly, and then retreat. Go. I whispered, and Takeda nodded.
I passed my eyes over the ground, and I picked out two rocks of suitable size. I looked up at the tree I stood next to, and made my way up it. I remembered, about twenty years ago, playing in this very forest with Hiriko and my cousins. I was the only one who could climb, so I always won our hiding-and-chasing games.
I found myself a suitable perch, and drew my katana. I shielded it cautiously from the moonlight, and then sat still. As I peered into the night, I saw Takeda doing the same.
The monsters were close now. Golgfag walked alone at the head of the pack, scowling. He passed between the trees where we sat, but the next two walked directly under me. The final pair seemed to take an age to come beneath us, even though they were only seconds behind the others.
Takeda picked up a rock and hurled it at the lantern closest to him. The stone smashed the glass, showering the monster that carried it, and the light was extinguished. I threw my own rocks, missing with the first but breaking another lantern with the second. I rose from my position as the final pair came beneath us, breathing deeply. I closed my eyes for a moment, and jumped.
The monster I jumped for moved his gargantuan head upwards, startled by my sudden rush of action and giving me a clear target. I drove my blade with all my weight right down through the creatures exposed eye, piercing his brain with one simple, fluid movement. The monster fell to the ground, taking me with it. I struggled for a second to remove my katana, and then rushed off to help Takeda.
The creature Takeda fought was both smarter and more foolish than the one I had slain. Takedas blade had penetrated the top of its head, but had bounced off its thick skull. It swung its club in a vicious downward arc, and Takeda leapt out of its path just in time, rolling into the tangled bushes.
The others had noticed now. I hacked at the creature, my blade embedding itself in the monsters flabby buttocks. The others were closing in quickly, and Takeda gestured to me. I pulled at my katana, and together we ran into the darkness. The monsters were utterly confused, but Golgfags rage echoed throughout the darkness.
***
We made our way quickly back to the camp. The roars of the monsters echoed in my mind, and I wondered how Cathay would fare against a full-scale invasion by these creatures. But myself and Takeda had come away from that encounter with little to tell of it my knee was aching from where it collided with the monsters jaw, and Takeda had several grazes from the brambles, but otherwise, we were still relatively unharmed.
As the adrenaline began to wear off, worry set in on us, Takeda more than me. We both felt a sense of impending dread as we approached the camp. I gasped, and placed my hand firmly on Takedas shoulder. We could see something moving there, and it was far too large to be Hiriko.
Takeda threw off my hand and bolted through the trees. I made to call out to him, but stifled it with my hand and then followed.
It was indeed something very large dressed as the others, but wielding some form of artillery weapon in his hands. At his feet, two creatures, the shape of large canines but quite unlike them in appearance. They had huge front teeth, which rose much higher than any other in their slobbering mouths, and their fur was striped like that of the mighty tigres who live in the Cathayan mountains. Their eyes glinted in the moonlight, seeking human flesh.
They snarled as they sniffed the air, and I knew that they would be able to smell us. One of them turned its hideous head to exactly where I stood, and I could have sworn its eyes met mine for a moment. It made to spring off towards me, but then
An axe came flying down directly on top of the animal, cleaving it in two. Its legs twitched for a moment, and the axe lay embedded in the ground. Powerful hands gripped the hilt, rising up into muscular arms, joining the body of the last person I expected to see at this moment Grigor the Northman.
Already the second animal was making for the Northman, who was temporarily defenceless. As the beast came towards him from behind, he dropped his shoulder and swung out with his elbow. It caught the animal mid-leap, and such was the force of the blow that the beast spun in the air. Grigor returned his attention to the axe, heaving it out of the ground before bringing it down again, beheading the second creature.
The monster howled, and levelled his weapon at the Northmans broad back.
Grigor! The monster! I yelled, and Grigor picked up the bottom half of the first creature and hurled it towards the monster at the exact moment it fired.
A bolt skewered the flying creature-half with such power that it almost passed clean through the animals hindquarters. The two projectiles hung still in the air, their momentum holding them off the ground for a second. They fell in a heap, and now Takeda had reached the monster.
He set about slashing it with a will. It barely seemed to feel pain as Takedas blade ripped through its flesh, but it was sufficient to annoy the creature. He swiped at the Daiki, sending him flying through the air. A scream came from inside the carriage, and I knew that Hiriko must be terrified but at least she was safe.
I ran to see to Takeda as Grigor faced the creature. I threw my blade to the ground, kneeling beside my friend. He lay facedown in the dirt, his katana lying a few feet away. He did not reply as I spoke his name, and he did not move when I grasped his shoulder. I glanced back at the Northman, and gasped the monster was flailing, falling, blood spurting from the wound in its chest. It fell to the ground, digging the axe deep into its flesh.
Grigor came to sit beside me, his breathing still remarkably controlled. He calmly placed two fingers upon Takedas neck, feeling for something. He found what he was looking for, and went still for a moment, his eyes staring up into the night sky.
He lives still. he said, and rolled Takeda over. Get him some water.
I moved quickly to follow the Northmans directions, before I realised what I was doing. The Emperor of Cathay, heir to the Kamakura Clan, taking orders from a Northern prisoner! I stopped for a moment and even began walking back, but I remembered that it was Takeda that needed the water, not the convict.
There was still a little left in the bucket near the fire. I bent down to pick it up, but as I rose I saw a gargantuan shape. No, many shapes! At least ten. They were monsters so unlike any other creature. But every one of them was lying on the ground. I stepped towards them, and my foot squelched in some dark liquid. I shuddered, and moved back to where Grigor sat.
There. I said breathlessly. Water. Grigor took the bucket from my hands, and gently opened Takedas mouth to allow him to pour in some water. The Daiki coughed and spluttered, his eyes fluttering open for a second only to close again.
Hell be right in the morning, eunuch. The Northman said, rising to his feet.
Wait! I said, and he stopped. There are monsters over there.
Well, of course there are. Where else would they be?
Excuse me I dont understand
They came up on this camp, lead by that brute with the dogs. They were going for your puppys wife so I killed them. the Northman said, looking fondly around at his handiwork.
You killed them?
Sure did.
All of them?
Yes.
By yourself?
Theres no one else here, is there? he said, moving away into the shadows.
***
The dawn came. Great shadows stretched out over our camp, both from the trees around us and from the monsters lying dead on the ground. I walked among them, and counted eleven, every one of them sporting great slashes all over their bodies. Their blood had stained the ground, spreading like the roots of a young plant and seeping into the dirt. I checked each one, just to be sure that they were truly dead. I placed two fingers upon their filthy necks as the Northman had done, but I felt nothing.
And yet, Grigor took no pride in this mighty feat of arms. When I told him how many he had slain, he shrugged off the comment, saying,
Only eleven? Quite a poor sum, considering how many were here.
But they were the size of many men.
I have warred against these creatures before. Ogres, they are called in my country. But at home, they are far more dangerous than the ones I fought here. The gods look down upon the ogre kind and smile, and they are granted powers the likes of which you have never seen before. They breath flames which could incinerate a man from twenty paces, they regenerate wounds that would kill others one hundred times over. They are one of the few races whom I cannot easily destroy. The ogres who live beside your country are weak when compared to those I know of. These fight amongst themselves, and they are cowardly.
I have seen creatures with powers you described. Dragyns, chimeras. Manticores. My father had once led a war against those beings, driving them back to the mountains from whence they came. Cathay suffered beneath them for a time. I said.
Takeda was lifting himself up from his blankets. His wife lay asleep beside him, so he rose slowly to avoid waking her. He stood up, stifled a yawn, and came to stand with us next to the corpse of a monster. His hair was ruffled, and he still had blood caked on his face.
Good to see you up again, Daiki. I said, bowing to him.
He bowed lower, and said, No thanks to your convict friend.
Actually- I started, but the Northman spoke over me.
It was thanks to me, pup. While you and Master Eunuch were off fighting a little bunch of scouts, I was back here defending your woman. See this fella? He said, poking the dead monster beside him, He was the first. Damn near got his grubby mitts on your pretty wife. And then I had to look after you when you got yourself all beat down. No need to apologise, Ive already accepted it.
Takeda glared at him before turning to me and whispering in my ear,
Is this true?
It is, Takeda. If it werent for the Northman, Hiriko would be dead right now.
He withdrew his head, and turned again to the grinning Northman.
I thank you for protecting my wife. He said, and the Northman smiled wider. What I wish to know is, where were you when we went off to fight the monsters who chased Hiriko?
Grigor remained silent for a time, the smile falling off his face.
I was gathering firewood.
***
We packed up our gear and were ready to move a few hours before midday. Takeda was driving the carriage, and as usual Grigor kept up the pace next to us. I took the chance to sleep on the comfortable padded seat, making up for the long hours I had sat awake and tended to Takeda.
When I rose from sleep, I could hear the Daiki talking loudly.
You may have fooled him, but I know your mind. I see it in your eyes, you feel no loyalty to him. And if you feel no loyalty to a man such as the Emperor, then it is my guess that you feel no loyalty to any man.
Of course I have no loyalty to him! I am my own to command, and have always been. But I wont turn my back on a fight, and the only allies I have here are him and you, so I guess Ill have to hang around for a while.
He gave you your freedom. He took you from your cell on a whim, and allows you to walk freely, even handle a deadly weapon. You ought to be thankful.
He did order me to be hacked up by his other puppy. Coward wouldnt even show his face, wouldnt even look me in the eye as he cut into my flesh! Foreign swine.
You are a criminal. Its what you deserved.
I am no criminal. If I were in my own land, freedom would not be granted to me, I would simply have it. I am a servant to the gods, and they determine whether I am a criminal or not.
But I may decide if you live or not! Takeda said, a hurled himself down from the drivers seat. One of them grunted I could not see which, but I guessed it was the Northman. I threw back the flap and leapt out to find Takeda on the ground, bleeding from the mouth, and the Northman scowling over him.
Gentlemen! I made to help Takeda up, but he batted away my hand. He tried to speak, but his jaw was in a very odd position in relation to his face and angry purple bruises were rising through the blood. There is no need for that. Takeda, get yourself back up into that seat. Thats an order. Northman, Ill have your weapon, thank you.
The Northman raised his bushy eyebrows. He placed one thumb through the strap which held his axe over his back. His eyes bored into mine, and I felt a voice rise inside me, much like my fathers, but softer. More pleasant...
He needs his weapon if you take it from him, much harm will befall both you and your friends
More deceptive.
I shook my head, clearing it of that strange voice. I closed my eyes for a second, and when I opened them again the Northman averted my gaze. Takeda had retaken his seat on the carriage, and his wife handed him a cloth and was now wiping the blood which trickled from his mouth.
Your axe, Northman. He shrugged and swung it around, pushing it into my hands.
Bad idea. the voice inside me said softly.
He started walking onwards, so I climbed back into the carriage and off we went.
***
Night was falling on us quickly. Try as I might, I could not clear my mind for sleep. Whenever I closed my eyes, I felt as though someone elses immediately came to me. Hiriko was asleep beside me, and Takeda had been silent and unmoving for hours. That left only the Northman the barbarian. His axe lay, leaning against the wall of the carriage. Runes were carved into it, but in what language I could not tell. The blade gleamed in the moonlight.
There was no moonlight. The carriage was fully enclosed, the door and windows tightly shut. Rain was pouring down, turning the dirt into mud beneath our wheels. Some devilry burned within that axe, and for a moment it held me enthralled. I had this all my desires my destiny!
A crash came from outside, followed by a roar. I broke out of my trance instantly and grabbed the Kamakura katana. I slammed open the door and jumped to the ground. Huge shapes were all around the carriage thirty, forty, fifty shadows! One of them stooped down, snatching up one of the horses, effortlessly breaking the bonds which held the animal to the carriage. The horse bucked, lashing out with its iron hooves, but the monster held it high above his head. He wrapped his great hands around the horses neck, making its eyes bulge and its legs flail harder. But quickly, the horse stopped moving its tongue lolled out, and the monster smiled before biting into the poor animals raw flesh.
Takeda jumped out of the carriage behind me. He gritted his teeth, and I knew what he was thinking. We would die, both of us, to protect Hiriko. Sweet, innocent, beautiful Hiriko. The shadows were looming ever higher, coming forward slowly. If this was my destiny, then so be it. I shall meet it with steel in my hands and the fire of Kamakura in my heart. The foremost monster was close enough to strike now, so Takeda and myself darted forwards and rained blows down upon it.
The creature fell with a guttural roar, clutching its bloody wounds, but now they came towards us even faster. Another we brought down, its blood splattering onto my unarmoured body. I ran back to the carriage and climbed up onto the roof, hoping that we could repeat the battle in the forest. Takeda joined me, and we clasped hands for what we both believed would be the last time.
It has been a good life, Emperor. he said, spitting blood from his mouth.
Short and merry.
We go to meet your father now. Your uncle will defend the Kamakura legacy.
The monsters were upon us. Their heads and shoulders rose above the roof of the carriage, so we ran about, stabbing at the eyes and faces of the creatures as they came too close. Perhaps five, we killed, before I heard a familiar voice. It was that of Golgfag, the leader of the party we had fought only a few days ago. He came forward, towering over us. I ran to stab at his face, but he ducked with surprising speed and reached down, grabbing the bottom of the carriage. In a single fluid movement, without strain or struggle, he upended it, sending us flying and making Hiriko scream.
I rose my head up, and before my nose were the iron-shod boots of Golgfag. I felt for my blade, but found it out of my reach and encased in mud. Golgfag leant down, his massive face leering at me as he picked up my sword, the heirloom of the Kamakura Clan, and shoved it under his belt. He swung out with his foot, booting me in the ribs.
A pretty trophy for me, aye, laddie? I felt my face heat up with rage. I made to pull myself up, but I felt Takedas strong hands gripping my legs.
Leave it, Hojo. It is over for now. he said thickly, his jaw still misplaced.
The monsters bound us tightly, and Golgfag sat down beside us.
Anything valuable in your little cart, lads? he asked. I thought of the axe the powerful axe. The magical axe. Takedas grip on my leg tightened, and then I remembered Hiriko.
Say nothing. Takeda whispered.
Nothing of value. I said to Golgfag, breathing heavily.
Good, he said, and then moved towards it. You wouldnt mind if I did this? And with that, he jumped into the air and landed on the carriage belly-first, destroying it and surely crushing anything or anyone inside it. Takeda gasped, and I could imagine the tears welling up inside him. I found my own throat clogged with grief, and as Golgfag rose revealing the destruction he had wrought, a tear fell down my own face.
A horn blew, somewhere in the night. I could hear hooves pounding, coming nearer, throwing up the mud but it did not matter. I paid them no heed. Takeda was silent in his sorrow, and I wept with him. I let my head fall to the mud, ignoring the rain, ignoring the filth, just letting it all pass by. It did not matter.
The monsters were making noise. Making a racket. Disturbing my peace. Their deep voices assaulted my ears. I heard the clash of steel against steel. Perhaps it was the Northman. Pointless but I heard other voices. Voices speaking in clear, proud Cathayan. Horns blowing banners waving the symbol of the Emperor, a black dragon, and the symbol of Kamakura, the runes The Highest Honour on a field of white. The bushi had come to save us, but they were too late to save Hiriko.
The monsters were scared. Rainwater formed mist around the charging cavalry. They tried to run, but more warriors came t block of their retreat. They were surrounded, and many of them threw their weapons away and begged for mercy as the Cathayan warriors came to a halt.
Show them none! Kill them all! Your Emperor commands you! I said, and the bushi charged in
Takeda lay unconscious behind me. He had given in the mightiest warrior I knew so I could give in too, and perhaps find solace in my dreams.
***
When I awoke, I found Takeda already up and standing over the wreck of the carriage. Many horses stood tethered nearby five hundred, and men enough to ride them stood or sat around in groups around fires. Cathayan warriors, all of them with heads held high and smiles upon their faces. They knew nothing of the tragedy that had befallen Hiriko at the hands of the monsters.
I rose slowly to join Takeda. I stood by his side, and watched as two men picked up Hirikos mangled body. We bowed our heads in unison and placed our hands upon our hearts as she was carried gently to the centre of the camp. There she was laid down, and men came to pay their respects. There would have to be a proper, honourable funeral, but both of us felt the need to settle this right now. Thus we stood, as statues, for hours as the soldiers picked apart the remains of the carriage.
I turned away, glancing at Takedas reddened eyes for just a moment before I went to speak to the soldiers. They had laid out everything they had found inside the carriage in a line.
Emperor. We have slain forty-three of these beasts, and have given them a mighty fine reason to rethink their invasion. Scouts report that their entire army is encamped twenty miles south of here, and have not moved all day. Our dike is nearing completion
I stopped the man with a wave of my hand.
Where is Golgfags body? Where is the leaders corpse?
Er I am sorry, sir, but the leader escaped our net. Left all of his kin to die! I frowned, and the man stopped talking. I looked over to the carriage all of the items that had been within it had been piled up, and any useful parts had been salvaged.
Where is the axe? I asked the man.
Pardon me, sir, but what axe?
The Northmans axe. The magical axe..
There was no axe found, sir. Just what you see here.
I turned my back on him, and walked to the edge of the clearing. The Northman had disappeared, and his axe had gone with him.
SM
What am I to do? I am young. I have fought in no more than nine battles, but I am expected to live up to my fathers reputation. He was one of the greatest warriors in all of Cathay, and he led this kingdom into a new era of prosperity. For seventeen years, trade thrived and even the poorest of cultivators could have been considered rich by western standards. Until the monsters claimed my fathers life as well.
So now it is up to me, Hojo Kamakura, Emperor of Cathay, son of Heishi Kamakura, to put a stop to the invaders. How? Why has this task come to rest on my shoulders? Father, give me guidance. Father, give me strength.
***
My father has come to me in my meditations. He entered my mind as a spark of light, a tiny wisp of hope, perhaps. He spoke, and as he did the spark and his voice grew until it filled my mind and assailed all of my senses. He told me what I must do, and as he spoke I felt my spirits rise.
He told me of my destiny.
***
Much is happening. All along the borders of this city, the lower men in our society have set to their work with a will, overseen by my personally-selected Daiki commanders. Armies are being raised in Kanto to the south, Kyoto to the north and Kyushu to the east. Scouts have been sent out, and it is my hope that within the month they return with the news that I so need to hear.
Most of my people are flocking to this city in the hundreds. My castles and my halls are packed to the doors with families of Cathayans, and the horse-paddocks are slowly becoming smaller with tents and small houses being raised in every direction. And all around them, a great dike is being built.
Fifteen feet across and getting deeper by the day, this dike. From my fathers books of lore, I take it that these monsters are near to ten feet in height. Once the dike is complete, it shall have stakes rising from the ground, hopefully preventing the monsters from simply climbing in and out. For some additional protection, I plan to scatter the ground with broken glass which has been seeped in poison.
One bridge has been built, merely a stone continuation of the main road leading into the trees on the borders of Cathay. It is strong, but not so strong as to resist our efforts to break it down when the monsters arrive.
***
My armies are slowly coming together. There shall be five defense forces, each made up of three thousand men, stationed around the city. And then there shall be the outer forces, totaling fifteen thousand, positioned between the dike and the walls. A Daiki loyal to my father shall lead each force of three thousand. I refuse to give up my kingdom.
***
The monsters are but a few weeks march away, and not one of my scouts have returned. I can only hope they still live, for I need all the information they can gather.
The villagers are still working, and with the threat of the monsters looming over their heads they often drag themselves to work long before the sun rises and then do not retire until long after sundown. Their efforts are honourable; the gods shall smile on them when the black shadow of death inevitably descends upon them.
***
My father has come to me again, in the same way he has done before. He told me that I myself must seek out the monsters, and with me I must take only three companions. One must be a general, another must be a scholar, and another must be one of the few blemishes on our once-perfect society. I must take with me a criminal.
I made my way down to the cells. The stench in this area of the town is almost unbearable, and I was forced to hold a cloth to my face as I walked. The building where Cathays criminals are housed is huge but with only one-storey, solid granite from the floor to the roof. Guards in faultless bushi armour, polished at every opportunity, stand at each corner and doorway, as escape attempts are a weekly commodity here. Indeed, just last week a group of convicts had escaped and claimed the lives of three warriors and six villagers before they were brought down.
The guards at the main door, six of them, came together in perfectly synchronised salute. I waved my free hand at them and two went to the door and spoke into the keyhole as the others fell back into attention. The great wooden doors swung open before me, and I strode in.
The corridor was dank, and the stench intensified with every step I took. Guards lined the entire passageway, each about five feet away from the next and standing with their backs facing the cell doors. I drew the cloth away from my face, flinching at the horrid smell. I struggled to regain my composure, waving at the air before I ordered the guards to assemble the prisoners in a line. The warriors hurried to unlock the doors and usher their prisoners out before me.
A ragged bunch indeed, they were each was clothed in filthy foreign linen, and most looked like the only thing they were suited for was the end of a noose or beneath a guillotine. I walked up and down this line, questioning each prisoner as I went. All had terrible offences to speak of, and showed no respect to me. I struck several of them about the face as they spoke ill of my father and myself.
I turned to the guards, and asked them,
Are these the only criminals in Cathays care? Their numbers seem mightily diminished since last I came here.
It is true, Emperor, as we had to end several to bring their little rebellion in check. But there are a few more. I can lead you to them, if you please. One of the warriors said.
They led me to a staircase. These people were not fit to stay above ground, the guards told me, so I followed them down into the darkness.
One of the guards gathered a lantern from its setting in the wall, and then went about the business of bringing in the prisoners. I heard, rather than saw, the guards lashing out at the sullen bunch of convicts. Soon they stood arrayed before me only three men, all of them looking as though in another life they would have been capable of amazing things. Terrible things, perhaps. They were shackled at the ankles and wrists, and each wore an iron collar through which a chain could be fed, to lead the convicts through the streets like dogs.
Name? I asked each of them in turn.
Oda Nobunga. The tallest one said.
Akio Kure. The next said.
The shortest of the three, but powerfully built and sporting a bush of dull red hair, did not answer when I asked him his name. His eyes bored into mine with an unmoving expression of disinterest.
Your name? I asked again. Still the dotard did not answer. Do you wish to incite the wrath of the Emperor? Speak!
His silence was angering me. Not only that, but his eyes his eyes. As you look at those pits of grey, you feel as though you are entirely useless. It felt, for those few seconds I stared into his eyes, like I was the prisoner, and he was the Emperor.
His name if Grigor. Hes a Northman. The guard closest to him said. I nodded to the warrior, then turned back to the man.
Your offence, Grigor? I continued.
I have committed no offence. The Northman said. His voice was surprisingly deep, his language heavily accented.
Guard?
Treason, murder and body desecration. He raided Cathayan villages in Kanto with other men of his creed. When we caught him, he was busy decapitating those who had been slain in the fighting and collecting their heads as trophies.
Atrocious! You deserve naught but the noose on this very day. I said. I saw in my mind a vision of that man, covered in blood that was not his own, ambling through the flaming houses of a Cathayan village to mutilate the bodies of those that had fallen with honour against him. It was akin to the worst of my nightmares.
By your standards, of course. But by mine? Treason, murder, and body desecration, you say. In my home, it would be called ascension to greatness. Even now, the Gods look down on me, and they smile at my actions. Grigor said, and his eyes flashing with malice as he spoke.
Perhaps, not a death sentence for you. Something far worse can only be suited for a criminal such as yourself. Send for the executioner and take Grigor the Northman to the torture racks. I said. I am an Emperor, and I was not accustomed to be shown such contempt. It would not be tolerated.
A pair of guards seized the Northman and forcefully moved him up and into the light. We made our way down to the torture chamber, a room at the very centre of the prison with doors of stone. A thin shaft of light came through a gap in the ceiling, glinting off the wicked blades contained in this room. They were many, wickedly curved fish-hooks and jagged scimitars.
The guards ripped off the Northmans shirt and threw him over a wooden beam. His wrists were leashed over his head and a nail hammered into the chain to stop him from moving. The same was done to his ankles, and then the executioner came forward.
The executioner wore a veil of canvas, hiding his face. His hands were stained with gallons of other mens blood. Not one man in all of Cathay knows where he came from, or what his name truly is. But he is skilled in the art of persecution, so he found a way into his position as executioner. His power is terrifying he knows exactly how much each part of a mans body can take, he knows just how to send a man to the brink of death and yet bring him back for more.
He set to work with a hook, spearing it into Grigors stomach. The Northman grunted, his teeth grinding against each other in an effort to suppress a cry. His breath came in short gasps and he strained against his bonds, but he did not cry out.
Is that all you have for me, Pup? If this is all that awaits a criminal, I dont understand why you havent already been overthrown. What kind of man cannot even look into the eyes of he whom he intends to destroy? the Northman said, laughing madly.
I felt the contents of my own stomach coming up to my throat, and quickly made my way back to the door. I pushed it closed and then sunk to the floor, leaning on the wall. I sat there for some time, my eyes and mind soon closed against the rest of the world.
And yet again, a spark of light entered the darkness behind my eyelids. My father was coming to me again, and I needed his advice.
Father! Not one among these criminals is suited to travel with me. Whom must I choose? Where must I look? I spoke out loud. The spark continued to grow, and for a moment there was complete silence.
You already know whom you must take. His voice grew in my head.
Alas! But I do not.
But you do. He is the one the fates have chosen. The one whose fate revolved solely around pain until now.
I knew. I knew instantly of whom my father was speaking. Pain the Northman seemed to thrive on it.
Him? Surely you do not expect me-
Yes. I do. It is fate. Every event that is building up in this land, in the entire East, it is fate. Your destiny lies on the same path as that warrior from the North. All that you must do is walk that path.
How, father? Tell me how! I questioned desperately, but already the light was fading back into darkness.
***
The Northman sat beside my throne, his muscled stomach covered in bandages. Already, his dressings had been changed three times and yet I could still see blood seeping from the numerous wounds the executioner had inflicted upon him.
You want me to go hunting with you? he said.
Scouting, as it were. Not hunting.
No matter the word you use. I do not understand you, eunuch. You have me all trussed up, have your puppy slice me open, and now you want me to go hunting with you? Some fine southern logic you show there, eunuch.
Emperor Kamakura, if you please. What does eunuch mean? I said. I was speaking in the eastern language, but I fancied he spoke with some northern dialect I could not understand.
Ah it is only a title befitting of a man such as yourself. But you did not answer my question.
I am in need of a ruthless man, one who will show no fear in the face of danger. I believe you are that man.
Have you ever seen me fight? Have you ever seen me in battle? No, you have not, so do not take such things for granted.
You took the punishment delivered to you by the executioner without fear. Very few sane men in this world would face the Chief Executioner of Cathay as bravely as you did. It pained me to compliment this braggart so, but if I was to convince him to stand beside me, it was necessary.
Who says that I am sane then, eh?
I was taken aback by this mans nature. Such compliments from the Emperor himself ought to make a man swell with pride to such a degree that his smile cannot be wiped from his face no matter what happens, and yet the Northman took it as though it was meaningless chatter in everyday conversation.
That is of no consequence. I need to know shall you come with me, to be free in the world again, or shall you stay in your cell to rot, every event of every day being predetermined, and no chance for greatness ever rearing its head for the rest of your life?
Ah. Well said, eunuch. You make me an offer even a madman wouldnt refuse. Ill come with you, eunuch just dont try to give me orders. You'll soon find I don't respond well to authority. Where are my effects?
***
It was a simple task, choosing my two other companions. Daiki Takeda I have known for all of my life. He is but a few years older than me, and I trained alongside him. He was always better than me. He rose quickly to become the Daiki of a field army as I was preparing to come into my inheritance. He is tall and thin, his hair beginning slowly to grey, but he is a master swordsman.
And for the scholar I had to look no further than Takedas own home. His wife, Hiriko, is renowned for her deductions on the Cathayan economy among many other things. She is probably my most trusted advisor, above even the counsellors of war who served my father. She is also known for being the most beautiful person in all of Cathay, perhaps in all of the known world. Her hair is dark as a winters night, and she has an aura about her that could drive a man to do things he would never usually have done. Her beauty is almost deceptive, and yet she is as sweet and innocent and a young child.
We packed up a surprisingly large amount of provisions in a grand carriage with six horses, and we found room enough to fit two men inside and one upon the drivers seat. The Northman claimed he was more than happy to walk, so I decided to allow him to stride alongside the carriage, at least for a while. Takeda would keep an eye on him, and if I wished I could open the carriages windows.
We left the city inconspicuously, passing under each of the mighty walls without anyone noticing that it was the Emperor of Cathay sitting within the carriage. I had left my trusted uncle in charge of the city whilst I was gone, but I felt it best that the people did not know that I was leaving with the threat of the monsters looming so large over Cathay.
As we were approaching the final gate, a warrior stepped out ahead of our carriage and hailed us with his hand. He wore a helmet that obstructed much of his face, and about his shoulders was a cape surely not part of a guardsmans uniform. A trivial matter, so I would not reveal myself in pursuit of it.
Who wishes to pass beneath the Gates of Samurai, and what is your intention? He asked to Takeda, who was driving.
Daiki Takeda of Cathay, twice honoured servant of Emperor Kamakura. I go to visit relatives in Kyoto.
I see, and I know who you are. Do you not know me?
I am sure I have made your acquaintance somewhere on the road, but if I have not, Im sure I will now. Takeda said coldly.
Indeed! The warrior laughed off Takedas comment. I served with you against the pirates in Kanto. My name is Athrus. However I am under strict orders not to allow any man, friend or nor, to pass these gates without a commission signed by the Emperor.
I had given no such order. It was confusing, but I did not give it a second thought.
I will consult with my passengers. Takeda said, and poked his head under the leather flap.
Emperor, he wants He started, but I cut him off.
I will deal with him personally, then. And then I threw back the flap, and moved into the light now flooding into the carriage.
You shall open this gate, and you shall tell no other of my departure. And remove that cloak. I said, and the warrior bowed low to the ground before shouting at his accomplices. The gate was pushed open before us, and Takeda swung the flap back down.
I could not see him, but rather I sensed that the warrior was staring at us long after we had passed.
***
The lands changed swiftly from civilized, flat plains littered with houses to an area of woodland, scattered with brambles and thickets of thorny bushes on the ground and thick trees rising high into the air. A clear, paved path ran through it, but gradually becoming rougher as we moved further away from Weijin, the chief city of Cathay.
The Northman still walked beside our carriage, staring around and at the road ahead. As they did when he looked at me in the prison, his eyes seemed to take in everything at once.
Why do you stare? There is naught to see for another few miles at least. I asked him, sliding open a window in the side of the carriage.
Why, I am busy trying to plan my escape, eunuch! He said jovially. I frowned, and a toothy smile came over his face.
No need to worry, eunuch, I jest! You see, it seems that certain allegiances I have made have resulted in my ability so see into the future. His expression had turned deadly serious.
Foresight? That is a powerful gift for anyone to grant you. I said. This man was a barbarian. A crude, nomadic barbarian. But if this power that he spoke of was real, he would soon become wise beyond his years. And powerful I shuddered as I thought of what he could do with his gift if he bent it to evil purposes.
Dont you worry, eunuch. For the most part, what I see is vague. Unclear. It is only when something amazing is in the works that I can see clearly.
Do you see anything for us? For me? I said, before I could think. I wished to find out about my destiny, I needed to find out about my destiny, but I could not expose myself to the Northman.
Well, eunuch But at that moment the carriage rolled into a pothole, frightening the horses and putting a stop to our conversation. He smiled, and turned away.
***
Night fell upon us slowly, the sun desperately trying to maintain its grip on the land but fighting a losing battle. Takeda and Grigor went about building a fire, and Hiriko walked into the impending darkness to look upon the stars.
I could hear clearly the sound of Grigors mighty axe striking something solid. After several uneven strokes, he soon fell into a rhythm. Chop, one, two, chop, one, two. Takeda emerged from the woods with kindling overflowing from his long arms.
A fine fire we shall build, Emperor once our companion returns with the firewood, of course. Takeda said, dumping the bundle and coming over to me.
Indeed. We have made good speed and we can afford a hearty meal, I should say! I said, smiling at my friend.
Never mind that. I am concerned, Emperor. he said, his eyes becoming narrow. The Northman has his little jokes, but I see far too much meaning hidden amongst them. My wife believes so too, and we fear for this mission and for your very life.
Criminal he may be, Takeda, but my father has chosen him, and I do not believe he will have lead me astray. Perhaps, the Northman is not the finest of companions, and I can understand that you are speaking from the heart, but he has knowledge within him that may be of great use to us. To me. Under different circumstances, I would agree with you without a doubt in my mind. But he is necessary.
As I was talking, the steady sound of axe striking wood stopped, and the night was still and silent for a brief moment. A small screech came from the Northmans direction, followed by a whooshing sound and then a quick thunk. Grigor had felled his tree.
It seems your firewood is almost ready, then. I said, and Takeda bowed and walked away.
***
Grigor came to our camp, the entire tree held over his shoulders. Well over twenty feet tall and perhaps two thick, and the Northman hefted it over his shoulders with apparent ease. He walked up to where Takeda squatted in his attempts to start a fire, scaring the horses as he brushed past them carelessly and dropped the tree, scattering some of Takedas kindling. Only now did beads of sweat appear on the Northmans forehead.
Got your firewood, General. He said. He eyed his axe, and continued, Ill need to sharpen this up again, though.
Takeda looked up at him scornfully.
Well need smaller pieces, convict.
Of course. Perhaps you could assist me, Mister Eunuch? The Northman said to me, and Takeda scoffed.
The Emperor has no need to dirty his hands when scum like yourself are available to do it for him.
Peace, Takeda. The Northman wishes for my help, and my help he shall have. I said, stepping in. The Northman grinned at me as I walked towards him, and handed me a hatchet. It looked and felt far lighter than the weapon he wielded so easily.
Takeda looked on with an expression of mingled shock and distaste, his eyes moving quickly between the Northman and myself. I did not like to contradict him, but he could not understand the importance of this man as I could. I hope he can realise someday.
***
Hiriko came running through the trees, sheer terror upon her face. She did not cry out, but she swept through the scrub with all the speed of someone in fear of her life. Takeda stood up swiftly and moved to her, scooping up his katana as he went.
What is it? What is it? He asked in the Cathayan language.
She fell into his arms, and choked, Monsters! Monsters close!
I pulled myself up, hastily strapping on my armour. The plates were hard as tempered steel, and layered for almost perfect protection. Each part was sheathed in leather the colour of the Northmans beard. I paced to the carriage, and pulled out a glossed wooden crate.
I lowered it to the ground, and fumbled with the locks. Once opened, it revealed what was held to be the finest weapon in all of Cathay the fabled katana of the Kamakura Clan, worn by generations of Cathayan Emperors. The hilt was embedded with but a single stone, unlike the swords of the West, and yet the stone set in this weapon was worth more than any other. It was a magma-gem, a glistening rock taken from inside the volcanoes in the east.
The blade still shined after centuries of use, and Cathayan runes were intricately carved along the bottom. They read roughly, The Highest Honour on one side, and Kamakura Ultimate on the other. I snatched up the blade, and moved to where Takeda still stood, comforting his wife.
We must move quickly. Well hide the carriage and move upwind. Northman, put out that fire! I said, raising my voice slightly. There was no answer from him, and the fire burned on. I grunted and moved to the fire, dousing it with the bucket of water set next to it.
I strode to where the Northman had been lying when last I had seen him, but he was not there.
Northman! I called out, but the night gave no answers.
That damned convict has run off. I knew no good would come of his presence. Let us go before the monsters reach us! Takeda said, and I knew he was right. He lead his wife to the carriage, muttered a few words to her and kissing her on the cheek. She nodded tearfully, and accepted his help to lift her into the carriage.
She will be safe there, Takeda. Do not worry. I said, and I lead the way through the trees. The Daiki glanced over his shoulder every few seconds, and I knew he did not heed my words. They were empty, and we both knew it.
***
We trod carefully through the night, sniffing the air and listening for any sound of the monsters. And it did not take us long to hear them. Their raucous laughter rang through the silence of the forest, and they had lanterns that pierced through the trees.
Now, where iz that pretty lady we has seen before, boss? One of them raised his hideous voice above the others.
Dunno. It was you that seen her. Whyd you let her get away?
Shes a quick un, that one. I tried to get her, I did, but she was too fast. Wheres the hunter, anyway? His kitties could track her down easy.
The hunters back with da rest of our army, and it was our job to bring back any uns who we see. But you is too slow for that, arent ya, you runty little fool?
Shutup, Golgfag, you didnt catch her neither.
I wasnt there, ya idiot! Now be quiet, we has got business to take care of here. Golgfag said.
We could see them clearly now. There were only five of them, but they were all colossal and carrying brutal weapons. They had huge, thick heads, their skin discoloured and sweaty. The biggest one was Golgfag he wore a black turban upon his head, and one of his beady eyes was covered with an eye patch. In his hands he had an unusual missile weapon, the likes of which I have never seen before. Over his back he carried a wicked spear, barbed and terrible.
The others were all relatively the same they wore travel-worn, filthy clothes, and carried clubs and maces and other such weapons. Each looked to be the equivalent of four or five Cathayan soldiers but Takeda and myself were no ordinary soldiers.
We weaved our way around the monsters, carefully positioning ourselves to carry out my plan. They were coming directly towards us now, but the wind was turning. A skilled tracker would pick up our scent.
Takeda. Gather a few rocks. I will climb this tree. Go to another, and wait for them to pass under us. Use the rocks to break their lanterns. Jump on the last to walk beneath you. Kill them quickly, and then retreat. Go. I whispered, and Takeda nodded.
I passed my eyes over the ground, and I picked out two rocks of suitable size. I looked up at the tree I stood next to, and made my way up it. I remembered, about twenty years ago, playing in this very forest with Hiriko and my cousins. I was the only one who could climb, so I always won our hiding-and-chasing games.
I found myself a suitable perch, and drew my katana. I shielded it cautiously from the moonlight, and then sat still. As I peered into the night, I saw Takeda doing the same.
The monsters were close now. Golgfag walked alone at the head of the pack, scowling. He passed between the trees where we sat, but the next two walked directly under me. The final pair seemed to take an age to come beneath us, even though they were only seconds behind the others.
Takeda picked up a rock and hurled it at the lantern closest to him. The stone smashed the glass, showering the monster that carried it, and the light was extinguished. I threw my own rocks, missing with the first but breaking another lantern with the second. I rose from my position as the final pair came beneath us, breathing deeply. I closed my eyes for a moment, and jumped.
The monster I jumped for moved his gargantuan head upwards, startled by my sudden rush of action and giving me a clear target. I drove my blade with all my weight right down through the creatures exposed eye, piercing his brain with one simple, fluid movement. The monster fell to the ground, taking me with it. I struggled for a second to remove my katana, and then rushed off to help Takeda.
The creature Takeda fought was both smarter and more foolish than the one I had slain. Takedas blade had penetrated the top of its head, but had bounced off its thick skull. It swung its club in a vicious downward arc, and Takeda leapt out of its path just in time, rolling into the tangled bushes.
The others had noticed now. I hacked at the creature, my blade embedding itself in the monsters flabby buttocks. The others were closing in quickly, and Takeda gestured to me. I pulled at my katana, and together we ran into the darkness. The monsters were utterly confused, but Golgfags rage echoed throughout the darkness.
***
We made our way quickly back to the camp. The roars of the monsters echoed in my mind, and I wondered how Cathay would fare against a full-scale invasion by these creatures. But myself and Takeda had come away from that encounter with little to tell of it my knee was aching from where it collided with the monsters jaw, and Takeda had several grazes from the brambles, but otherwise, we were still relatively unharmed.
As the adrenaline began to wear off, worry set in on us, Takeda more than me. We both felt a sense of impending dread as we approached the camp. I gasped, and placed my hand firmly on Takedas shoulder. We could see something moving there, and it was far too large to be Hiriko.
Takeda threw off my hand and bolted through the trees. I made to call out to him, but stifled it with my hand and then followed.
It was indeed something very large dressed as the others, but wielding some form of artillery weapon in his hands. At his feet, two creatures, the shape of large canines but quite unlike them in appearance. They had huge front teeth, which rose much higher than any other in their slobbering mouths, and their fur was striped like that of the mighty tigres who live in the Cathayan mountains. Their eyes glinted in the moonlight, seeking human flesh.
They snarled as they sniffed the air, and I knew that they would be able to smell us. One of them turned its hideous head to exactly where I stood, and I could have sworn its eyes met mine for a moment. It made to spring off towards me, but then
An axe came flying down directly on top of the animal, cleaving it in two. Its legs twitched for a moment, and the axe lay embedded in the ground. Powerful hands gripped the hilt, rising up into muscular arms, joining the body of the last person I expected to see at this moment Grigor the Northman.
Already the second animal was making for the Northman, who was temporarily defenceless. As the beast came towards him from behind, he dropped his shoulder and swung out with his elbow. It caught the animal mid-leap, and such was the force of the blow that the beast spun in the air. Grigor returned his attention to the axe, heaving it out of the ground before bringing it down again, beheading the second creature.
The monster howled, and levelled his weapon at the Northmans broad back.
Grigor! The monster! I yelled, and Grigor picked up the bottom half of the first creature and hurled it towards the monster at the exact moment it fired.
A bolt skewered the flying creature-half with such power that it almost passed clean through the animals hindquarters. The two projectiles hung still in the air, their momentum holding them off the ground for a second. They fell in a heap, and now Takeda had reached the monster.
He set about slashing it with a will. It barely seemed to feel pain as Takedas blade ripped through its flesh, but it was sufficient to annoy the creature. He swiped at the Daiki, sending him flying through the air. A scream came from inside the carriage, and I knew that Hiriko must be terrified but at least she was safe.
I ran to see to Takeda as Grigor faced the creature. I threw my blade to the ground, kneeling beside my friend. He lay facedown in the dirt, his katana lying a few feet away. He did not reply as I spoke his name, and he did not move when I grasped his shoulder. I glanced back at the Northman, and gasped the monster was flailing, falling, blood spurting from the wound in its chest. It fell to the ground, digging the axe deep into its flesh.
Grigor came to sit beside me, his breathing still remarkably controlled. He calmly placed two fingers upon Takedas neck, feeling for something. He found what he was looking for, and went still for a moment, his eyes staring up into the night sky.
He lives still. he said, and rolled Takeda over. Get him some water.
I moved quickly to follow the Northmans directions, before I realised what I was doing. The Emperor of Cathay, heir to the Kamakura Clan, taking orders from a Northern prisoner! I stopped for a moment and even began walking back, but I remembered that it was Takeda that needed the water, not the convict.
There was still a little left in the bucket near the fire. I bent down to pick it up, but as I rose I saw a gargantuan shape. No, many shapes! At least ten. They were monsters so unlike any other creature. But every one of them was lying on the ground. I stepped towards them, and my foot squelched in some dark liquid. I shuddered, and moved back to where Grigor sat.
There. I said breathlessly. Water. Grigor took the bucket from my hands, and gently opened Takedas mouth to allow him to pour in some water. The Daiki coughed and spluttered, his eyes fluttering open for a second only to close again.
Hell be right in the morning, eunuch. The Northman said, rising to his feet.
Wait! I said, and he stopped. There are monsters over there.
Well, of course there are. Where else would they be?
Excuse me I dont understand
They came up on this camp, lead by that brute with the dogs. They were going for your puppys wife so I killed them. the Northman said, looking fondly around at his handiwork.
You killed them?
Sure did.
All of them?
Yes.
By yourself?
Theres no one else here, is there? he said, moving away into the shadows.
***
The dawn came. Great shadows stretched out over our camp, both from the trees around us and from the monsters lying dead on the ground. I walked among them, and counted eleven, every one of them sporting great slashes all over their bodies. Their blood had stained the ground, spreading like the roots of a young plant and seeping into the dirt. I checked each one, just to be sure that they were truly dead. I placed two fingers upon their filthy necks as the Northman had done, but I felt nothing.
And yet, Grigor took no pride in this mighty feat of arms. When I told him how many he had slain, he shrugged off the comment, saying,
Only eleven? Quite a poor sum, considering how many were here.
But they were the size of many men.
I have warred against these creatures before. Ogres, they are called in my country. But at home, they are far more dangerous than the ones I fought here. The gods look down upon the ogre kind and smile, and they are granted powers the likes of which you have never seen before. They breath flames which could incinerate a man from twenty paces, they regenerate wounds that would kill others one hundred times over. They are one of the few races whom I cannot easily destroy. The ogres who live beside your country are weak when compared to those I know of. These fight amongst themselves, and they are cowardly.
I have seen creatures with powers you described. Dragyns, chimeras. Manticores. My father had once led a war against those beings, driving them back to the mountains from whence they came. Cathay suffered beneath them for a time. I said.
Takeda was lifting himself up from his blankets. His wife lay asleep beside him, so he rose slowly to avoid waking her. He stood up, stifled a yawn, and came to stand with us next to the corpse of a monster. His hair was ruffled, and he still had blood caked on his face.
Good to see you up again, Daiki. I said, bowing to him.
He bowed lower, and said, No thanks to your convict friend.
Actually- I started, but the Northman spoke over me.
It was thanks to me, pup. While you and Master Eunuch were off fighting a little bunch of scouts, I was back here defending your woman. See this fella? He said, poking the dead monster beside him, He was the first. Damn near got his grubby mitts on your pretty wife. And then I had to look after you when you got yourself all beat down. No need to apologise, Ive already accepted it.
Takeda glared at him before turning to me and whispering in my ear,
Is this true?
It is, Takeda. If it werent for the Northman, Hiriko would be dead right now.
He withdrew his head, and turned again to the grinning Northman.
I thank you for protecting my wife. He said, and the Northman smiled wider. What I wish to know is, where were you when we went off to fight the monsters who chased Hiriko?
Grigor remained silent for a time, the smile falling off his face.
I was gathering firewood.
***
We packed up our gear and were ready to move a few hours before midday. Takeda was driving the carriage, and as usual Grigor kept up the pace next to us. I took the chance to sleep on the comfortable padded seat, making up for the long hours I had sat awake and tended to Takeda.
When I rose from sleep, I could hear the Daiki talking loudly.
You may have fooled him, but I know your mind. I see it in your eyes, you feel no loyalty to him. And if you feel no loyalty to a man such as the Emperor, then it is my guess that you feel no loyalty to any man.
Of course I have no loyalty to him! I am my own to command, and have always been. But I wont turn my back on a fight, and the only allies I have here are him and you, so I guess Ill have to hang around for a while.
He gave you your freedom. He took you from your cell on a whim, and allows you to walk freely, even handle a deadly weapon. You ought to be thankful.
He did order me to be hacked up by his other puppy. Coward wouldnt even show his face, wouldnt even look me in the eye as he cut into my flesh! Foreign swine.
You are a criminal. Its what you deserved.
I am no criminal. If I were in my own land, freedom would not be granted to me, I would simply have it. I am a servant to the gods, and they determine whether I am a criminal or not.
But I may decide if you live or not! Takeda said, a hurled himself down from the drivers seat. One of them grunted I could not see which, but I guessed it was the Northman. I threw back the flap and leapt out to find Takeda on the ground, bleeding from the mouth, and the Northman scowling over him.
Gentlemen! I made to help Takeda up, but he batted away my hand. He tried to speak, but his jaw was in a very odd position in relation to his face and angry purple bruises were rising through the blood. There is no need for that. Takeda, get yourself back up into that seat. Thats an order. Northman, Ill have your weapon, thank you.
The Northman raised his bushy eyebrows. He placed one thumb through the strap which held his axe over his back. His eyes bored into mine, and I felt a voice rise inside me, much like my fathers, but softer. More pleasant...
He needs his weapon if you take it from him, much harm will befall both you and your friends
More deceptive.
I shook my head, clearing it of that strange voice. I closed my eyes for a second, and when I opened them again the Northman averted my gaze. Takeda had retaken his seat on the carriage, and his wife handed him a cloth and was now wiping the blood which trickled from his mouth.
Your axe, Northman. He shrugged and swung it around, pushing it into my hands.
Bad idea. the voice inside me said softly.
He started walking onwards, so I climbed back into the carriage and off we went.
***
Night was falling on us quickly. Try as I might, I could not clear my mind for sleep. Whenever I closed my eyes, I felt as though someone elses immediately came to me. Hiriko was asleep beside me, and Takeda had been silent and unmoving for hours. That left only the Northman the barbarian. His axe lay, leaning against the wall of the carriage. Runes were carved into it, but in what language I could not tell. The blade gleamed in the moonlight.
There was no moonlight. The carriage was fully enclosed, the door and windows tightly shut. Rain was pouring down, turning the dirt into mud beneath our wheels. Some devilry burned within that axe, and for a moment it held me enthralled. I had this all my desires my destiny!
A crash came from outside, followed by a roar. I broke out of my trance instantly and grabbed the Kamakura katana. I slammed open the door and jumped to the ground. Huge shapes were all around the carriage thirty, forty, fifty shadows! One of them stooped down, snatching up one of the horses, effortlessly breaking the bonds which held the animal to the carriage. The horse bucked, lashing out with its iron hooves, but the monster held it high above his head. He wrapped his great hands around the horses neck, making its eyes bulge and its legs flail harder. But quickly, the horse stopped moving its tongue lolled out, and the monster smiled before biting into the poor animals raw flesh.
Takeda jumped out of the carriage behind me. He gritted his teeth, and I knew what he was thinking. We would die, both of us, to protect Hiriko. Sweet, innocent, beautiful Hiriko. The shadows were looming ever higher, coming forward slowly. If this was my destiny, then so be it. I shall meet it with steel in my hands and the fire of Kamakura in my heart. The foremost monster was close enough to strike now, so Takeda and myself darted forwards and rained blows down upon it.
The creature fell with a guttural roar, clutching its bloody wounds, but now they came towards us even faster. Another we brought down, its blood splattering onto my unarmoured body. I ran back to the carriage and climbed up onto the roof, hoping that we could repeat the battle in the forest. Takeda joined me, and we clasped hands for what we both believed would be the last time.
It has been a good life, Emperor. he said, spitting blood from his mouth.
Short and merry.
We go to meet your father now. Your uncle will defend the Kamakura legacy.
The monsters were upon us. Their heads and shoulders rose above the roof of the carriage, so we ran about, stabbing at the eyes and faces of the creatures as they came too close. Perhaps five, we killed, before I heard a familiar voice. It was that of Golgfag, the leader of the party we had fought only a few days ago. He came forward, towering over us. I ran to stab at his face, but he ducked with surprising speed and reached down, grabbing the bottom of the carriage. In a single fluid movement, without strain or struggle, he upended it, sending us flying and making Hiriko scream.
I rose my head up, and before my nose were the iron-shod boots of Golgfag. I felt for my blade, but found it out of my reach and encased in mud. Golgfag leant down, his massive face leering at me as he picked up my sword, the heirloom of the Kamakura Clan, and shoved it under his belt. He swung out with his foot, booting me in the ribs.
A pretty trophy for me, aye, laddie? I felt my face heat up with rage. I made to pull myself up, but I felt Takedas strong hands gripping my legs.
Leave it, Hojo. It is over for now. he said thickly, his jaw still misplaced.
The monsters bound us tightly, and Golgfag sat down beside us.
Anything valuable in your little cart, lads? he asked. I thought of the axe the powerful axe. The magical axe. Takedas grip on my leg tightened, and then I remembered Hiriko.
Say nothing. Takeda whispered.
Nothing of value. I said to Golgfag, breathing heavily.
Good, he said, and then moved towards it. You wouldnt mind if I did this? And with that, he jumped into the air and landed on the carriage belly-first, destroying it and surely crushing anything or anyone inside it. Takeda gasped, and I could imagine the tears welling up inside him. I found my own throat clogged with grief, and as Golgfag rose revealing the destruction he had wrought, a tear fell down my own face.
A horn blew, somewhere in the night. I could hear hooves pounding, coming nearer, throwing up the mud but it did not matter. I paid them no heed. Takeda was silent in his sorrow, and I wept with him. I let my head fall to the mud, ignoring the rain, ignoring the filth, just letting it all pass by. It did not matter.
The monsters were making noise. Making a racket. Disturbing my peace. Their deep voices assaulted my ears. I heard the clash of steel against steel. Perhaps it was the Northman. Pointless but I heard other voices. Voices speaking in clear, proud Cathayan. Horns blowing banners waving the symbol of the Emperor, a black dragon, and the symbol of Kamakura, the runes The Highest Honour on a field of white. The bushi had come to save us, but they were too late to save Hiriko.
The monsters were scared. Rainwater formed mist around the charging cavalry. They tried to run, but more warriors came t block of their retreat. They were surrounded, and many of them threw their weapons away and begged for mercy as the Cathayan warriors came to a halt.
Show them none! Kill them all! Your Emperor commands you! I said, and the bushi charged in
Takeda lay unconscious behind me. He had given in the mightiest warrior I knew so I could give in too, and perhaps find solace in my dreams.
***
When I awoke, I found Takeda already up and standing over the wreck of the carriage. Many horses stood tethered nearby five hundred, and men enough to ride them stood or sat around in groups around fires. Cathayan warriors, all of them with heads held high and smiles upon their faces. They knew nothing of the tragedy that had befallen Hiriko at the hands of the monsters.
I rose slowly to join Takeda. I stood by his side, and watched as two men picked up Hirikos mangled body. We bowed our heads in unison and placed our hands upon our hearts as she was carried gently to the centre of the camp. There she was laid down, and men came to pay their respects. There would have to be a proper, honourable funeral, but both of us felt the need to settle this right now. Thus we stood, as statues, for hours as the soldiers picked apart the remains of the carriage.
I turned away, glancing at Takedas reddened eyes for just a moment before I went to speak to the soldiers. They had laid out everything they had found inside the carriage in a line.
Emperor. We have slain forty-three of these beasts, and have given them a mighty fine reason to rethink their invasion. Scouts report that their entire army is encamped twenty miles south of here, and have not moved all day. Our dike is nearing completion
I stopped the man with a wave of my hand.
Where is Golgfags body? Where is the leaders corpse?
Er I am sorry, sir, but the leader escaped our net. Left all of his kin to die! I frowned, and the man stopped talking. I looked over to the carriage all of the items that had been within it had been piled up, and any useful parts had been salvaged.
Where is the axe? I asked the man.
Pardon me, sir, but what axe?
The Northmans axe. The magical axe..
There was no axe found, sir. Just what you see here.
I turned my back on him, and walked to the edge of the clearing. The Northman had disappeared, and his axe had gone with him.
SM