Swamp of Death - Chapter 16

 DORULL SAGA - SWAMP OF DEATH

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CHAPTER 16

 

 

It was still early in the morning, as hunters made final preparations to leave the camp near the Thirel river springs. All equipment and catch was boarded into wide, sturdy, wooden boats, tightly tied to the bank. Only thing left for them was to finish the breakfast, before they could embark on a long journey home. And so they did, some ten minutes later. And it took another five, before they all embarked on the boats. Before Gelian could wave the order for the departure.

Rough ores sliced through the calm water in rhythmic, precise swings, propelling the boats fast towards the fort. At any other day, fishermen would let the river current guide them downstream, but Gelian insisted, it was of utmost urgency, to reach the post, as fast as they possibly could. By doing so, they managed to halve the traveling time, and in just few hours before sunset, reach the fort. Couple of dock workers, somewhat surprised upon seeing an early arrival of the group, just stood still on a small, wooden pier, adjacent to the northern wall of the fort, forgetting to throw the ropes, for easier, more secure docking.

“Wake up, you lazy bastards!” one of the hunters yelled, barely managing to hold them steady against the current that threatened to pull the boats downstream.

“If we miss the ford, we’re off to Kabial!” the second one yelled in panic.

Several soldiers, resting nearby, jumped to help, throwing the ropes and weighted nets, easing the boats to a stop. All of the crews had to make exceptional efforts, in order to pull the boats to the pier. Under the weight of the catch, even the slightest of mistakes, or any hesitation, could topple them over. Wasn’t long before soldiers found themselves in charge of the maneuvers. And not without a good reason. Well known military discipline, rooted deep inside of them, came to the aid even on this occasion. And they did it, by arranging every boat in pairs. This added to stability, thus diminishing the risk. Soon enough, all boats were securely tied to the pier.

As fishermen begin to unload their catch, Gelian and Bagtur make haste towards the fort. Loud argument, followed by a commotion, came from within the courtyard. Few surprisingly harsh curses threatened to escalate the situation even more. Scout and half-orc walked through the wide open gates, guarded by two confused soldiers.

“What is going on here?” Gelian asked.

“It’s been like this all day long.” the guard felt nervous “Since early in the morning, when Vallsynk forces marched in.”

“And they weren’t happy, seeing Issurk beating them to it.” added the other one.

“Between the constant complaining and accusations, I think it’s just a matter of time before they start throwing fists.”

“What is it that they want?” Bagtur asked.

“It’s all fuckin’ bullshit I tell ya.” guard whispered “They are acting like spoiled children, instead of being soldiers. Instead of being men.”

“I heard them complaining about barracks, beds, and even food.” a second soldier concurred.

Sudden, even louder yelling, made them all turn around. There, in the middle of the courtyard, two heavily armored individuals, exchanged the barrage of insults and threats. Surrounded by the soldiers, from both sides,  ready to pounce on their first wink. With a bright red face, somewhat out of breath, Thorin was unsuccessfully trying to break up the fight, and calm down two stubborn commanders. They were mere seconds away from the disaster, when one of them rudely pushed Thirel’s captain away, in protest.

Thorin lost his balance, slamming hard onto the ground. Loud, angered yells from every Thirel post soldier, told those Issurk and Vallsynk ones, that this was no longer just a brawl. They were prepared to draw their weapons, in the defense of the captain. And at any cost. Something which could not be said for their southern counterparts. And if by any chance, some of them still pretended not to be at least slightly afraid, the sight of the charging half-orc surely changed that.

In a dozen of strong strides, Bagtur was in the midst of it, clenching his fists. Heavy hand fell over like a log on the unfortunate Vallsynk’s commander, dropping him to the ground unconscious. His shiny fine helmet, rolled a couple of feet away, dented, where half-orc had hit it. Issurk commander wholeheartedly lauded this turn of events, but his smile fled from his face, once he understood, that Bagtur is turning towards him. Vehement, sharp direct struck him in the face. Commander somehow managed to stay on his feet, stumbling a few steps back. But half-orc was inexorable in his decision, of sending both of the commanders to sleep. Closing fast in a striking distance, he swung with his left, coming to a standstill, just a few inches away, following the strict Thorin’s order.

“Enough!” dusting himself off, captain Lutir eased from the ground “I still need them in working order.”

His deeply frowned face, said how much disappointment and anger he felt looking at all those soldiers gathered around.

“You put quite a lot of shame on your uniforms. This kind of behavior won’t be tolerated in the future, no matter who you are, and where you are from. Soon, we will be marching to the war, so let’s all agree to put our differences aside, at least for the time being.” Thorin turned around a few times, just to be sure everyone is listening “Now, in orderly fashion, please, fuck off to your barracks.”

Serious, somewhat threatening and harsh tone of Thorin’s words, made a much needed impact on the soldiers, as they dispersed away fast. From the captain's experience, the matter was settled, at least for now. Whatever was about to happen, after their return from the goblin city, wasn’t concerning him. In times like these, when their unity had to prevail above anything else, Thorin couldn’t believe how disgraceful his combatants, the commanders of two town armies, behaved. He was disappointed to say at least.

It became evident, they were following some sort of order. But to what end, he didn’t know. Councilmen could have easily expanded their constant power struggle into the military as well. Seeing how valuable and constant a source of income Gollvin caravans were, captain Lutir had suspicions, that would be the reason enough to create a discord. Thorin stepped angrily into the officer’s barracks, followed by Gelian and Bagtur. Behind them, well ashamed, Issurk commander dragged himself, carrying in his arms, still unconscious, elven adversary from Vallsynk.

“I want to thank you, for your exceptional crisis prevention.” from a far, dark corner of the room, came somewhat warm, female voice “And I appreciate your kindness, in sparing my commander from further beating, which he undoubtedly deserved.”

“Spare me Eilonna.” captain Lutir waved his hand “Your commander was saved only because, he is needed in combat, nothing more.”

Mere mention of the high councilor’s name surprised Gelian and Bagtur. Eilonna Falkner was well known in the north, despite the fact, she rarely left the security of the Issurk walls. This sudden, and her only visitation to the Thirel post, wasn’t at all coincidental, just now, before they were to march into the battle.

“I always admired your sincerity.” Eilonna nodded, walking towards the large table, dominating the entire room “I agree, this is not the time, nor place, for any kind of political or other games. But, that should also be something, the esteemed Vallsynk council needs to work on, too.”

“Well, isn’t it a shame that they are not here, to hear me out?” Thorn said sternly “Therefore, I’ll settle for you. Control your men. Let’s try working together, at least when it comes to this.”

Eilonna agreed silently, turning to a sudden, barely audible sigh, from the other side of the room. Unfortunate commander of the Vallsynk army begin to wake up. He was getting a lot louder with every passing moment, as the pain welcomed him back into consciousness. Not knowing what happened, but realizing he was no longer in the courtyard, the elf jumped from the chair.

“I’m filing a formal complaint…” he hissed, wondering why his voice sounded weird “What is wrong with me?”

“Yelamir!” Eilonna issued an order “Tend to our injured friend.”

Her commander seemed overly eager to help the man, he fought not so long ago.

“He is blessed with special abilities.” councilor Falkner said proudly “Often, unselfish usage of this rare gift, granted him the title of paladin.”

Almost simultaneously, everyone turned their heads towards Yelamir. Few were those, who had chosen to walk this heroic path. The ones that did, deserved a distinct status and respect. His behavior in the courtyard, not a minute ago, now seemed even more out of place. Why would such an esteemed individual allow himself to stoop so low, in behaving like a common thug.

“Be still Saekul, this will last but a few seconds.” Yelamir said.

“But…but, what happened?” The elf's mind was still trying to process things, but was only able to place himself in the middle of that argument he had with the Issurk commander “I’m filing a formal complaint about…”

“You’ve met my son Bagtur, and his right hand.” Thorin sat next to Saekul “Now, pick your next few words carefully, because if you persist in further provocations and this annoying quarrel, that broken face of yours, will be the least of your worries.”

“But I was….”

“Let me explain this to you, as plainly as I can.” Captain Lutir continued “You will encourage your men to cease acting on these bullshit orders you’ve received back home. I am well aware of this little game, the councilors from both of the towns want to play. And I’m getting tired of it.”

“I was…” Saekul wanted to explain himself, but Thorin wasn’t finished with his lecture.

“I’ve tried dealing with your pissing contest with patience and respect. But from now on, I think it’ll be much better for all, if we are to rely on the good old military rules of conduct.” Thorin moved a bit closer towards the elf “We are now in the state of war, right?”

“Y…yes.” Saekul stuttered.

“With that in mind, any kind of disobedience will be treated as an act of treason. In your case, that would meant the only one kind of punishment.”

“Which is?” Eilonna was a bit naive in asking.

“D…death.” Vallsynk’s commander barely managed to let the whisper out.

“So answer me this, how are we supposed to fight together in the battle, if we can’t agree who’ll sleep where?” captain Lutir scratched his forehead “No soldier of mine will die because of some bullshit agendas. I won’t risk their lives, while there’s even the slightest sign of bad blood between the two of you, or any of your soldiers, for that matter.”

Saekul nodded, as he sat silent and deflated. He needn't speak at all, Thorin guessed it all. He knew it all.

“Now, if this was in all actuality, outside meddling in military matters, it will end now.” Thorin stood up “That offends me on a professional and personal level. And it should be yours, also.”

Commander of the Vallsynk armies looked down in shame. He thought the same once, a long time ago. Before his complicated and troublesome past reached him here, making out of him an obedient puppet in the councilman's hands. Long ago he tried to defy them, stand up for what’s right. But he lost, gave up and went with the flow.

Thorin tapped him on the shoulder, finally allowing the paladin to come closer and do his thing. Without any further delays, Yelamir approached, placing the palm of his left hand onto the elf’s face, while mumbling some words at the same time. It seemed as if nothing was happening, when all of the sudden, a few bright, white sparks shone from his fingertips.

“This will sting a bit.” Yelamir said.

Saekul’s nose twisted, turned and wiggled, under the pinch of this invisible force. Very laughable ordeal for everyone in the room. Everyone except for the elf. He felt the excruciating pain rising, as every shattered bone moved underneath his skin. Fusing, melding, mending. Fortunately for him, it lasted for just a few seconds. Moments later, Saekul was able to breathe, just like nothing had happened.

“Works better than before!” the elf cheered, shaking the paladin's hand “Thank you commander.”

“Let us all hope, this experience will make a strong bond between you two.” Thorin tried to hide the smirk, as he sat at the head of the table, filled with various papers, scouting reports and maps of the surrounding area. “If you’d be kind in joining me, we have a couple of important matters to discuss.”

“Yes sir!” Saekul and Yelamir said at the same time.

“One question?” Eilonna sat right across the table “How much do we know of Nual-Deu?”

“Very little, I'm afraid. And, it’s not as reliable as I hoped to be. Scouting reports are at least several years old. Some even more.” Thorin unwillingly admitted, picking out through the couple of weathered pieces of paper “Ah, there it is. Nual-Deu, goblin’s underground city, is a labyrinth of caves and tunnels, possibly stretching underneath the entirety of those hills. Estimated population of five to ten thousand, including women and children as well. But in all honesty, that number could be ten times greater. Their leader, chieftain, whatever they call him, is Zuut. Who, according to the reports, is ruling that city for at least a couple of decades.”

“Yes, I know of Zuut.” Saekul agreed “He became the chieftain sometimes after the great war. If I remember it correctly, he was one of the key negotiators of the peace treaty in this region.”

“Well apparently, after all these years, he decided to change his mind.” Eilonna said.

“Wouldn’t be the first time it happened, but there is also one other possibility.” the elf replied “Perhaps Zuut is no longer their king.”

“I don’t like it, don’t like it at all.” Captain Lutir said quietly “Not knowing a thing, speculating, blindly charging into the battle. Perhaps we should consider postponing the whole ordeal, at least until…”

“That is out of the question!” Councilor Falkner interrupted him, with some fury “It would send the message of weakness, to all our enemies. We need to act now and hard, no matter how small the stolen cargo was.”

“And not to mention all of those brave miners, merchants and soldiers, who lost their lives trying to defend it.” Thorin said.

“Y…yes, but of course.” Eilonna bit her tongue “Especially for them! We’ll make an example out of Zuut, and every other goblin, who dared to spill the blood of our brothers.”

“Surely, there is more, regarding Nual-Deu.” Yelamir said.

“I’m afraid not.” Thorin sounded highly disappointed.

“Actually, there is.” Gelain was a bit reluctant to join in the conversation “We had an interesting talk with Vrink.”

“And what that old know-it-all had to say?” captain Lutir asked.

“Well, he warned us of the probable dangers of Nual-Deu. It sounded as if he was scared of that place.”

“I’ve no doubt he meant well, but that is just another piece of obsolete information.” Thorin said “How long ago did he leave those caves? Forty years?”

“Can’t blame him for trying to help, and warn us.” Gelian nodded.

“Wait a second. If I understand you correctly, you discussed this with another goblin?” Eilonna seemed genuinely worried.

“But he is a surface dweller. Our old ally. Our friend. I’ve done nothing wrong.”

“I’m sure, councilor Falkner didn’t meant to accuse you of anything.” Thorin replied “But you must understand the sensitivity of the matter.”

“I agree, and I do understand that would be the problem, if old Vrink haven’t already knew everything, and then some.”

“What do you mean?” Thorin asked, “Tell us boy.”

“Commander might have been on the right track, suggesting that goblins got themselves a new leader.” Gelian looked at elf “We found out, that Moorg, the son of Toorg, led the attack on the caravan.”

“Toorg! I remember him as well” Saekul was surprised “He is a tribal shaman, and Zuut’s right hand. He was also amongst those pleading for the peace. I can’t believe he would let his son do such a thing.”

“Not willingly.” Gelian added “Apparently, the son killed his father.”

“And, Vrink is certain about the goblin's change of leadership?” Thorin stood up.

“Yes, without a doubt. If not already, then soon.”

“That makes sense.” Yelamir said “It explains the unprovoked attack on the caravan. But it leaves us wondering, are goblins now on a warpath?”

“That would complicate our situation.” Eilonna jumped in “Because in that case, we would need to act immediately.”

“So be it.” determination in Thorin’s voice was hiding his true thoughts and feelings, regarding this rash, haste jump into action.

Everyone was so eager to go, to fight. And for all the wrong reasons.

“Attack on the caravan was perhaps just the beginning. Some sort of a test.” Saekul almost whispered “And with no one paying attention to goblins, they could have built an army so large, the entire Tanmar might be in danger.”

“No army can compare with ours. Not in strength, nor in courage.” Thorin raised the cup in the air “For the glory of Tanmar.”

Everyone joined him in toast, which was what the captain hoped for. From now on, there was no turning back. Thorin knew that much. It was out of his hands now. No more waiting, no more delays. They were marching to war, and he was the one leading them. But, before he could do that, he knew he had a difficult task, of binding them all together, if they were to stand any chance of coming back.

“Gentlemen, I must bid you farewell.” Eilonna said suddenly “It’s time for me to go back. I left some unfinished business in Issurk.”

“Of course.” Thorin let her through the door “It will take but a moment to arrange your escort.”

“That would be absolutely unnecessary, my good captain. You’ll need all of your men now, and I could not ask of you to…”

“I insist. It is just a precaution.” Thorin interrupted Eilonna, as he turned towards Bagtur “Grab a couple of fastest horses, and escort Miss Falkner to Issurk. Once you do, head back immediately. We are to ride for Nual-Deu, in three or four days.”

Half-orc nodded, as he hastily headed out of the command barracks, and across the yard, to the left. He passed in between the two storage buildings, turning towards the stables. He was a bit annoyed with this sudden, new task. Especially now, on a brink of launching the entire operation. First actual battle of his life was very near, he could feel it. He’d rather stay and help in preparations, help with the organization. But still, not for a second he thought of disobeying the order.

It took him just a couple of minutes to saddle the horses, and grab a packet of traveling rations, before he headed back for the barracks. And just in time, to see Eilonna and Thorin exiting the building. She was still arguing, resolute in her intent to travel alone. Of course, she enjoyed the attention, not just because it made her feel important. But more so, to show that she also belongs here in Tanmar. Just like the rest of them.

“You have to understand, it’s just a precaution.” Thorin sounded almost desperate, as they approached the horses.

“I understand, but for the last time, I won’t be needing a protective escort.” Eilonna was adamant “I am capable of taking care of myself, otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”

“But I…”

“But nothing. His services are unnecessary.” councilor Falkner interrupted the captain “Surely, you can find a more suitable assignment for your soldier. I am positive he…”

“Get on the horse woman!” Bagtur yelled “You are wasting us the daylight.”

It took several long seconds, before Eilonna managed to get a hold on herself. Shock and disbelief in hearing this harsh, insulting order from the half-orc, left her mute and still. With her mouth half opened, she looked at Bagtur completely dumbfounded, as her wild blood started to boil. Her face turned red in anger. Even more, once she saw the disdainful smirks on some of the nearby guardsmen. She could no longer control herself. Eilonna lunged furiously at Bagtur, sitting in the saddle.

“How dare you! You…” Councilor Falkner squeaked in surprise, when the strong half-orc’s arm picked her up, with no apparent effort, as he proceeded to place her gently, in the saddle of the other horse.

His actions infuriated her even more. With her lips tight, she was shooting the poisonous arrows out of her eyes. She wanted to plunge her dagger, straight into the half-orc’s heart, here and now. She wanted to teach him that no one disrespects her, without the consequences. But Bagtur gave her no chance to react. He grabbed the leash of her horse, as he pulled away, waving Thorin goodbye, at the same time. They went through the gate, passing by the several soldiers, pushing in the large carts full of fish. Slightly inclined path led to the main road, turning right, towards the south. Bagtur kicked the horses a bit, into a steady, mid paced gallop, putting some distance between them and the fort, in mere minutes.