A Dwarf's Tale: Will of a Silver Coin

When I re-entered the night sky, no words can adequately describe the emotions that I am feeling. The rage and anger, were nicely tucked away right now. I guess you can say I felt not much of anything right now. There was a mission to be done. And emotions such as rage and anger, can cloud the mind in getting a mission done. So, it was nicely stowed away for the time being. I needed to think. Arriving back on the farm, I checked the pony. Yes, all of the items I needed were on the pony. I just needed to get my flasks of greek fire, my weapons, my armor, and consultation. Again, a night’s sleep was needed.

When walking back inside, the family and old sage Kosser were buzzing about. They were setting in plans within their tasks. Good. It will keep their minds focused. I noticed Tyna was sitting on a top shelf and munching on a celery stick. “Did you find out how far the dwarf town is?”

“Yes silly. We figured it out Sigur Fortress is two days ride with your pony outside.”

“Sigur Fortress?”

“Yes silly dwarf. The dwarf town is built into the side of a mountain.”

That’s why the dwarves are able to hold out. They had the land’s tactical advantage. And hopefully, they had enough food and water to hold against a siege. Yes, this dwarf town will be high on the ’leader’s list to dismantle. While they cannot do pure offensive, they do not dare have a small contingent to be let loose. They would not want an army descending on them.

“Well, that is somewhat encouraging. I just have to battle thousands to get to them.”

“Or use your cloak silly dwarf. Goblinoids and their ilk aren’t too bright.”

“The one I met earlier was.”

“Well, there are exceptions to every rule now isn’t there? You need a strong smart one to keep control over the stupid ones.”

“I suppose you do. Well, I’m going to make final preparations everyone. Good night to all.”

“G’night Tor.”

I went into my room. I put the smaller flasks of greek fire in my backpack. I made sure I had some flint and tinder too. My couple of daggers were tucked away in my worg armor. My axe and hatchet were sharp. My bow and two quivers of arrows were at the ready. My bastard sword, never seemed to be needing sharpening. It was strange to me. But that was ready too. By now, I was tired, really tired. I took off my clothes, got into bed, and tried to sleep. Several times, I woke during the night. My dreams that I was having plagued me greatly. The spirits of my brethren seemed to come visit me, begging me to help them be at peace. The horde leader, I imagined, was this large and terrible giant. And the giant always seemed to be chasing me. A giant dressed in black, with a nasty ten foot sword. Yeah, it always unnerved me. Finally, as I woke up again, there was no use to back to sleep. It will be dawn in an hour. Getting up, I put my clothes back on, and equipped my armor. I slung all of the weapons on me, quietly opened the door, and left the house. I went to the barn, got the pony, settled in my weapons and gear, got on the pony and started off.

I won’t go into the details of the ride save one. The path I was going down, was the same general direction of where I encountered the orc raiding party. As a whim, I went back to this area. For thirty minutes I scoured the area. There was no sign of the orc camp or the orcs. I found this strange. There was not even any indication in the snow that there was an orc party or the altercation. Nothing was disturbed. This reminded me last night inside of the cavern too. Someone, or something, is going through great lengths to stay undiscovered. Shrugging my shoulders, I continued down the general direction for Sigur Fortress.

My mount, was not a common pony. It was a steppe pony. These are common enough mounts for dwarves to use. Humans do not see the value of these wonderful little steeds. It isn’t tall, only about four and a half feet tall at the withers. It is not too pretty to look upon. What is amazing about these little ponies, is that their endurance is that of a war horse. It’s speed, is that of a light horse, similar to the filly that I rode. Also, it is extremely hardy. It would dig at the grass beneath the snow with its snout, and eat the snow for water. These ponies live in just about any climate known. I urged my pony into a gallop. The wonderful little animal easily responded, eager to get going. I patted its neck, being grateful of my choice of mounts.

We continued on the path. I constantly scanned the scenes before me for any sign of the horde army. Fortunately, there has not been any yet. I was thinking we were still a half a day out from seeing any signs of this army. We passed through fields, several small woods, some hills and valleys. In travelling, I always kept the mountains to my right as my ultimate guide. The dwarf town was cut into the mountains. Indeed, the mountains seemed imposing, various shapes and sizes defining the horizon nicely.

About mid day, I saw the first signs. There was multiple wisps of smoke in the sky before me. I stopped my pony and consulted the map and the time of day. It would be several hours yet to reach the dwarf town. It dawned on me that Kosser and Tyna believed this mount to be a normal pony, a slower gait and gallop. This could be my destination. I urged the pony forward into a trot. There was a small thicket of woods in front of our path. I stopped the pony and peered into the thicket. If I was to lay out sentries, this is where I would do so. I veered to the right, to hug the mountain face. I had us continue at a canter, carefully scanning for any signs of attack. The small thicket of woods came directly into contact with one of the mountains. I took this opportunity to carefully go inside the thicket. About a half mile later, we were about to come through the other side. I stopped my pony right on the edge, and surveyed what was before me.

There was indeed a town carved into the mountain. Stone walls and a stone gate prevented any sort of entrance. I could just make out several large catapults too. Down below this town, was the horde army, or at least a portion of it. I estimated a fully five thousand. Seems like the dwarves are holding up fairly well against them. From where they were at to the lowest point of the town, was a full one hundred and fifty feet. Easy to rain down arrows or bolts, or just simply rock to the army below. One lone path weaved up to the gate. I think I made out some corpses at the path. I noticed a party advancing on the path. They numbered about forty, maybe fifty-hard to tell at this distance. Then, I see a large rock flying from the town onto the path. It landed hard and rolled down the path. The party darted out of the way, but not before some of their numbers were crushed by the large rock. I looked back to the mountain face here at the thicket. With care, it could be scaled. Scanning back to the dwarf town, I tried to see if there was any possible entrance points or path among the mountains. Sadly, no such discernible path lay to it. I considered my options. If I scaled the mountain sides to try to get to Sigur, I could succeed. But then, I could only succeed in getting myself into siege with them. If I went down into the army, I would be swarmed quickly. I didn’t even bother the option of going around them and seeing if there was another entrance some point down the way. The horde army would of already have found it. No, it seems these three options were the only ones open to me. Other than waiting. But I could only hold out for a couple of days. That army looked like it was dug in. They probably had a week’s supply easy. I could wait for nightfall. That way, I could make my way inside much easier, thanks to the cloak that Kosser had given me. But again, I would still be in a siege position. There had to be a way to draw or destroy this army. But what?

I had to sit and think how this general would be thinking and doing. The general would see the dilemma as I have. It is a large army, thinking they were going to overrun the typical town. Upon arriving, this wasn’t a typical town at all. After suffering losses, the general would send out probe parties, like the one I am witnessing, assessing the skill of the inner combatants. Then, I would make a report, and request specific reinforcements. A couple of catapults of my own, with wagons of stone, perhaps also of burning oil would be on my menu. Several battering rams too and maybe some ladders to scale those walls. So yes, I would be making those requests. And that means, if I had my thoughts straight, forces would be coming in from the eastern side. In the mean time, I would be putting scouts on patrol around the camp, to prevent any dwarves from leaving the fortress.

If I concentrated on picking off the scouts, they would eventually be alerted that something was amiss. Scouting parties of a half dozen can easily turn into one hundred or more with those forces down there. Therefore, the only good option, would be in taking out the siege reinforcements bound to be here. But that is a lot of ground to cover. I could easily miss it, even with the size of those machines. Yet, there was snow on the ground. Perhaps the tracks of those messengers could still be determined. I would then have a general idea of the path they would take. Plus, with snow on the ground, travel of heavy machines such as those would prove to be quite difficult. Huge ox would be used, or many multiple slaves of the people in the towns would be used. In either case, both would suit me just fine. The ox, I could will into a charge. The slaves, I would free them, and see if any would attack the horde with me. The latter, I would have less chance of success. Humans see numbers too much. I, see opportunities, not numbers. At any rate, those siege machines can not be allowed to come to this area. To have them employed, would spell the downfall of the Sigur Fortress.

I went on my pony again, and veered off. I went farther away, so as to avoid any sort of detection by the army. I steered the pony into a half circle, peering at the ground for any tracks. Then the tracks that I see, are numerous. They were covered with fallen snow as well. Frustrated, I continued on. Alas, no other tracks. That means, the messengers have already been dispatched a long while ago, using the path of tracks to get here, or, this general is a dunce or prideful and didn’t want to report on failure.

I opted for the first answer. I wheeled the pony back to the tracks, and headed off east. I was hoping I was not wrong. The sun had set, and a full moon was rising. I was still able to make out the path of tracks before me. I also noticed this was going to be a very cold night. I debated going onward, or setting up camp. I would push on for several more hours, and then decide. Also, it was flat fields before me, with the mountains now quite distant behind me. Any camp I would set up, we would be visible under this full moon.

Pushing onward, the pony trudged forward. It was a wonderful animal, but even these ponies had their limits. It needed rest. There was another small thicket of woods about a quarter mile to the south. I steered the pony into this thicket and went right into the middle. I took out a couple of blankets from the saddle bags and wrapped the pony with them. I also took some rope to secure the blankets as well. The pony then started to eat the snow and feed on the grass under the snow. I pulled out a third blanket and thick fur. Clearing away snow to the grass below, I laid the fur down and sat down on the fur. I leaned back against a small tree as well, covering myself with the blanket. I was somewhat warm after a couple of minutes. It would be acceptable to be here for the night. I didn’t have much choice in the matter. The pony needed rest, and I realized how sore I was from riding all day since early morning. I dared not light a fire here. It would be too visible. Also, as crisp as the night sky was, the scent of the burning could be detected from a farther distance than the light of the fire. I contented myself with the meats and rations that I had. I wished I had some ale or even the coffee or tea from the farm house. Amazing how one gets accustomed to simple pleasures when they aren’t to be had. No matter. This was not a recreational camping trip. This was a mission and a hunt. With some luck, I’ll be able to indulge in those niceties soon enough.

I was sleeping lightly when I heard it. I heard the clanking of metal. I also heard snorts. Peering from the blanket, I saw them. Several very large wagons, each drawn by two large ox. Driving each wagon, was an ogre. Each of these wagons, well, three of the wagons were straight out catapults. The other two wagons carried battering rams. Five ogres in all. I didn’t even hesitate. I got my bow, checked my weapons, and pulled out an arrow. Aiming, I fired an arrow right at the lead ogre. My arrow shot rang true, as it pierced its neck. The ogre that was hit grabbed for his neck, trying to bellow, but it turned out more like a wheezed gurgle. The other four ogres stopped their ox and started to shot. Another arrow shot from my bow. This arrow went right into the knee of another ogre as he fell face down. I was concealed, but the ogres, while dimwits, can figure out in time where the attacks are coming from. The key was the ’in time part. I notched another arrow at a third ogre. This one pierced into his skull, dropping him immediately. I am so glad I made this strong giant bow. It was indeed strong enough to bring down the fiercest of foes. The last two ogres, hit behind one of the wagons. They figured out the shots are coming from this small thicket of woods. I do not think they have seen me just yet. They were probably trying to figure out what to do. I will not allow them the chance. Putting down my bow, I crept towards the far side, going on all fours, since I had still the armor of the worg. In the dim light, even if they do spot me, it will be hard for them to figure it out. The lame ogre, the one I shot in the knee, clambered back into the wagon. He was actually being smart. He was trying to get the ox to turn around and head out of there. I had to risk it. I rushed forward and with my bastard sword, came down on the wagon wheel axle. I was rewarded with it breaking and the wagon was down. This lurched the lame ogre into the oxen.

I rushed to where the other two ogres were using a wagon as a barrier. I scooted under the wagon, and then brought up my bastard sword into the groin of one of the two ogres. An extreme yowl of pain and both of his hands went to his middle. I quickly withdrew my bastard and got out from the side I entered the wagon. There was one fully capable ogre left to deal with. As he processed the information, he actually turned to run. Now I wish I hadn’t dropped my bow. Taking my hatchet, I took a moment to aim. I let the hatchet fly. The blade cut into the tendons of the back of his right leg, bringing him down. I rushed forward as he was struggling, bringing my sword to the back of his neck and pushing down. I felt the blade severing his spine. Satisfied, there was one more victim for tonight. The lame ogre. I almost felt sorry for the ogre, as he was tangled beneath the hooves of the oxen. Did I say I felt sorry? No, I almost felt sorry. He got his head out from the oxen, as I swung my blade, decapitating the ogre. His lifeless headless body dropped.

Well now, I stopped the convoy of siege weapons. Now, for a message. I pulled the bodies of the ogres to the side. The oxen, I tethered them in single file and tied the lead oxen to my pony. The oxen had settled down, fortunately. I proceeded to break apart the catapults. The ropes and the mechanisms were destroyed in a matter of minutes. With the wooden battering rams, I took my large axe and started chopping it apart. This took me much longer, but I was rewarded with splintered wood. I also took time to destroy the wagons too. Whew, I was getting tired. But no matter. The yoke poles, I put them in the ground. I dragged each ogre carcass to a pole, tying them to it, securing them. I took a flask, and gathered what ogre blood I could. I did not know any goblinoids languages, which was just as well. I spelled out the word ‘Retribution’ in front of the macabre work. As an additional touch, I decapitated each ogre head from their bodies, and had the headless corpses hold their own respective heads. This convoy would have been arriving at sunrise. When they do not arrive, they are going to send scouts out. I want the scouts to get the message. Mounting my pony, I urged her into a slot trot. The oxen, followed. I took them to the east. Going several miles, I stopped, untied the oxen, and then, went in behind them with my pony. I scared them into running. I chased them for several miles, goading them to run more and more. Finally, I stopped, and veered back to the north. I wanted to circle around to where I once was to observe the army. It took me hours, and just before dawn’s breaking light, I did come upon the thicket I first observed the horde army. I put the pony on her own, took a seat concealed in the thicket of woods, and waited.

By mid morning, I could tell there was some discontent. A pack of scouts were truly sent to the east. I would guess, mid afternoon is when the news would come back. Sure enough, mid afternoon came, and the pack of scouts did return. I couldn’t hear what was going on, but I could see the commotion. They found my grisly work and reported it. There was one humanoid that emerged from a tent. Even from my distance, I could tell this individual was huge. Whatever was said, there was an impact. A full one thousand troops left to go east. They were marching on foot. I looked at the map that Tyna made for me. The closest town I could see with a forced march, was two days away. That means, I had four, maybe five days until they returned with additional siege machines. Oh ho wait, something else was happening. It looks like half of the remaining forces were going east. Of course. They think there is an enemy army east. They hadn’t even considered that this attack was performed by one individual. And why would they? Ogres are creatures that stand nine to eleven feet tall. They are strong brutes, some even to take down some forms of giant. Of course they would think there is another army. Well, this is now a different predicament. True, it was still roughly about two thousand humanoids. But, that’s better than five thousand right? Now, how could I capitalize on this?

I was sitting there thinking what would be the best next maneuver. I considered the dwarf fortress. Five hundred dwarves. I cannot think of all of them are fighters. Let’s say at best there are two hundred fighters. That would still be ten to one odds. To press an attack, would still be very foolish. The commander was worried at least. Worried that there is another army at its back with an enemy in front of them. That means, the camp would be spooked. Maybe, I could use this to my advantage. I looked at the fortress. They had good towers there. Someone with enough ammunition, could have good sport from there. But would my bow reach? I tested the bow for strength of my shots, but never for distance. Now, the catapults on the other hand, if one of them could be turned, and started raining down boulders and rocks, that could do some damage. And the horde may experience casualties. It’s worth a shot. I gave us all a few days time.

I led my pony away from the horde army. About five miles to the north, was a good area to have her in. True, I had no idea if she would stay in this area or not. But, it was the best I could do. I couldn’t risk bringing her in. There was a small mountain spring for water. I also built a rough coral for her. Hopefully she’ll get the hint. I grabbed all of my items from the pony, and took off the saddle. If she was spotted, I wanted whoever spotted her to think she was a wild pony. I walked back to the thicket. It was nightfall now. The fires were lit at the horde camp. Pulling out Kosser’s invisibility cloak, I drew it around me. I made enough room for a small opening. I hoped this works.

I slowly went along the edge of the mountain towards Sigur’s mountain pass. I went slow, maddening slow. I did not want to make any sound from the equipment I carried. I had many bags, my backpack, my sword, axe, hatchet, two quivers, and my large bow. I felt like an invisible pack mule. Every step I took, I made sure it was secure before putting my full weight down. Two miles of this is enough to make anyone full of angst. Finally, I was within one hundred yards of the pass. Then, I heard noises approaching my general direction? Was I seen? I stood still, and ever so slowly, I turned around. There were four goblins heading my way. Could they have smelled me? I waited to see what they will do.

The four goblins were only patrolling. I only had to wait until they moved away from me. Breathing and saying a silent prayer of thanks, I proceeded slowly forward. I made it to the edge of the path. Now, for the walk up to the gate. Another few minutes, and I made it to the stone gate. Now, how to get the attention of the dwarves? Guess the direct approach will have to do.

“Greetings to all of you. I am Tor, a fellow dwarf. Will you grant me access?” I asked this in a low tone, hoping there was a dwarf right near the gate.

“What kind of a fool do you take me for? You are skilled for getting to the gate without us seeing you.”

“Thank you, but I am not with the horde army. Again, my name is Tor. I am a fellow dwarf.”

“It’s a gnoll trick I tell you. That isn’t a dwarf at the gate.”

“What if that is a dwarf? Can we just let him stay out there?”

“There is one way to find out. Ask him a question that only a dwarf would know.”

“Good idea. Dwarf, if that is what you truly are, answer this riddle. In a mountain, there is gold, there is silver, and there is diamond. If you had a choice, which one would you choose?”

“The mountain, for then I would have all three.”I hope this was the right answer.

“See, that is a fellow dwarf out there.”

“I’m still not convinced. One more question.”

“Ok fine, but can you keep it down? I do not wish to be heard by any of the sentries of the horde army.”

“If you are dwarf, I can understand that. Ok, in the lore of gods, Moradin is the father of the dwarves. Who is the patron of wealth.”

“Vergadain.”

There was a moment of silence. “Brother, I am sorry. Give us a few minutes. We will get you.”

“No apologies needed brother. Just get me inside.”

After a couple of minutes, I heard a soft grinding. A hatch, near where I am standing at, was beginning to open. It took a minute, but finally the entrance was big enough to enter. “Where are you brother?”

“I am here. I have a cloak of invisibility on. Stand aside, so I can enter slowly without making a sound.”

The dwarf took a few steps back. I carefully entered the stone opening. Finally, I made it into the opening. “Ok, close it. I’m in.” The hatch, closed ever so slowly. But this was necessary as they wanted no sound to travel as well. Once the door was closed, I put away the cloak. I wanted them to see I was a fellow dwarf. When we got out of the passage, there were grim smiles on faces. We all shook hands.

“Where is your meeting hall? We do not have much time. We need to prepare.”

“Prepare? For what?”

“Many things. May we please?”

The first dwarf nodded. I followed him to the meeting hall. Along the way, was the infirmary. There were many wounded inside. This would be even more difficult. We entered the meeting hall. It was currently empty. “I will go get our king.” I nodded and waited. The second dwarf looked at me. “What did your parents feed you?”

“Troll blood. Helps with the indigestion.”

He looked shocked. “I’m kidding I’m kidding fellow dwarf. Believe me, I do not know how come I am a freak. I just know I am dwarf, and I came to help.”

He relaxed a bit, but then, had a grim look. “For forty one days they have attacked us. For forty one days we have held them back. But I do not know how much longer we can last. Our spirits are strong, but we have many dead, many more wounded. I know they grow tired of us.”

“Where are your dead?”

“I thought you wanted to wait for the king?”

“I did. But the dead must be honored first. It is the least I can do.”

He nodded and I followed him. Near the meeting hall, was the tombs of the honored dead. I counted twenty four coffins here, each one of cut stone and newly done. I went to each coffin, and bowed my head, placing a hand on them.

“You honor our dead. I can believe you are a dwarf.”

“He is a dwarf, lad.” I turned, and there was an old grizzled warrior with a simple crown of silver. “I am King Samos. And you are?”

“I am Tor.”

“Welcome Tor, although I do not know what kind of hospitality we can give.”

We shook hands and I gave a short bow. He waved his hand. “Please, we are all brothers here. The fact that my guards found you at the gate, is a miracle in itself. Let us sit and have a drink. Lad, fetch us ales.”

“Yes my liege!” He sprinted off.

“King Samos,”

“Please, just Samos will do.”

I nodded. “Samos, inform me what has happened?”

“Nearly a year ago, there were fewer and fewer human trade wagons appearing. We were confused as to why they were not coming. So, I ordered several to venture out and gather what information they could. What they came back to tell, was terrible. There were all manners of filth invading and conquering the human villages. Goblins, Orcs, Hobgoblins, Gnolls, Ogres, Bugbears, all banded together, in one huge army. I knew it wouldn’t be long until they came to our lands. I ordered these scouts to go to other dwarf kingdoms, to inform them what is happening, to send for troops. I sent further scouts to see about numbers. The reports that were coming back, were they were numbered in the tens of thousands. It was the hordes of old coming back to haunt. The scouts I sent to other dwarf kingdoms came back. Troops were to come in. But alas, it has been all this time, and you are the only dwarf to appear. It seemed we were abandoned. My people took up arms, made the mighty catapults, to repulse back this filth. And for forty one days, we have been at war. I know the forces that are outside of our gates are small in comparison of what is to come. I know my people, are a doomed people. We have over fifty wounded. And there is no hope for us. We are doomed Tor. It may have been best that you did not come.”

“Samos, know this. You were not abandoned. I was part of a contingent of eighty on march here. Some months ago, we were attacked. I woke to be the only survivor.”

Samos’ eyes were watery. His grief at my loss was evident. He said with a broken voice, “So, we were not abandoned, but our brethren were slaughtered by these fiends. At least there is comfort to know we were not alone.”

“Samos, you are not alone. I came to help, but I am not alone. The people at Stalvinport, know of this army now. They are gathering a huge army to fight these foes.”

A glimmer of hope appeared. “How long until they get here?”

“It could be weeks Samos.”

The hope faded. “It might as well be years then. I can only guess that they will come with the full brunt of their forces. No amount of spirit, will, weapons, or guile will be able to turn them back. My people are lost.”

He held his head in his hands. “No, they are not lost Samos. There is hope. And I bring that hope.”

He lifted his head. “What hope?”

“I am here to get all of you out. Evacuation. Earlier today, over half of their numbers had left. True, to get more reinforcements and more siege engines. We only have a matter of four, maybe five days. But, we can act, and get your people to safety.”

“Tor, what safety? The moment we open the gates, even though less, the army that is outside will fall upon us. We cannot beat back those numbers.”

“King Samos, not once have I mentioned about opening the gate now did I?”

“No, you did not. It sounds like you have a plan. Ok, tell me what your plan is?”

The lad came back with the ales. I drank half of it. Damn, that tasted good. “Ok, let me start from the beginning.” I pulled out the map that Tyna made for me. “This is where Sigur is. If we follow to the northwest, along the mountains, there is a pass that is only fifty yards wide. Here, is the tunnel where my people were approaching. Inside of this tunnel, is a large cavern. Here, we can use this as an outpost. Here, is a human farm where I have been staying and a family I have grown quite fond of. It is the farm of Calvin and Talma Randoss. Calvin, is the former captain of Stalvinport and in high regard still. His wife, is a healer. We can bring the wounded, the elderly, and the young to stay with them. They have already agreed to it and are expecting us. With the remaining troops, at this fifty yard opening, we can hold off against any advances of the horde army. If the full brunt of the army is spotted, we can retreat backwards to Stalvinport. It is a walled fortress of a city. With the guard there, and the additional reinforcements and navy, we can mount a defensive front until more reinforcements arrive. I almost forgot. There is a master and apprentice mage at the farm. Kosser the sage is there.”

“Kosser? He is still alive?”

“Yes, and his apprentice is the youngest son of the Randoss family, his name being Steve.”

Samos reviewed the map. “All you say might work, if we can get there. But that is the crux isn’t it Tor. How do we get there?”

“There is more to my plan Samos. First, the underground passage my people were coming to aid you. There were probably other tunnels. Do you know of a path from Sigur, to get to this opening?”

“There is a way yes. There is a set of paths that go from here to that opening. But it has not been travelled for many years. I do not know if the path is cleared, or what dangers lurk in there.”

“Ok, but there is a way yes?”

“Yes there is.”

Ok good. The first part of my plan, is to explore this passage. I would require a couple of scouts to accompany me. I travelled here by pony and it took me about nine hours to arrive at the outskirts of your kingdom. By my calculations, with forced marches, we can make the journey in about fourteen hours. That is, if the path is clear. If it is not, we can clear it, and if there are dangers there, we can clear that too. Once complete, we can be back here in two days.” Then, we simply start ferrying the wounded, the old, and the young through here. Followed then by the women, and then, finally, yourself and the soldiers. To prevent the horde from following, we can destroy the passage behind us.”

“That, could work Tor. That, could really work! Ok, let’s say you accomplish this and return. We will need to cross the back part of the yard way in order to go into the passage. How do we do this without the horde army spotting us?”

“Cover of darkness. Plus, I have a few ideas about that too. Do you still have any blast powder left?”

“Use the blast powder to cause a huge fall in into the passage? That could work as well.”

Since I have met Samos, he started to become animated and lively again. I have given him what he has been missing: a fighting chance.

“Wait a moment. You came upon the outskirts of my kingdom. And a day later, over half of the army went east. Did you have something to do with that?”

“Aye, I did.”

“What, could you have possibly done Tor?”

“Well, I assessed the situation. I knew that the army could not advance without having siege weapons. The fact there were none, I scouted the direction where they came from. I merely travelled a few miles east, maybe ten. I do not know. I heard then a convoy of several catapults and a couple of wagons with battering rams. There were five ogres leading this convoy. There were five headless ogres by the time I was done. I put the word Retribution in troll blood before the grim sight and circled back to where I first came. The horde army probably thinks there is a regiment force out there. At first, by my count, one thousand left back east. Probably to get more siege engines. And then, the commander thought there is a rogue regiment out there. So, he sent half of his remaining forces to find it.”

“You, took out five ogres? By yourself? And not a mark on you? Are you sent by the gods?”

“I do not know Samos. My memories are only from the night I woke surviving the attack. I do not know my real name, my clan, my family, friends, lands, nothing. All I do know, is that this horde is responsible for this, responsible for your plight, responsible for our respective dead, and who know how many more dead. I do know that there are good people though waiting to help. And we have to get you and your people there. Only when sticks are banded, and molded with stone, can a storm be withstood and beaten back.”

“Tor, for that is good enough to know now, you have spoken like a true king. I agree to these plans of yours. Before your arrival, I thought I would have to prepare to meet the gods. Now, I have to prepare my people, and quietly tell them the plans. You must be exhausted.”

“Yes, I am exhausted. The ale is working upon me.” With that I finished the ale.” But there is still more to do. I need to examine your wounded. We need to figure out how to get the wounded to travel. Also, I have plans with those catapults of yours. Also, the dead must be finished honored by me.”

With the mention of the dead, Samos’ eyes watered. “What Samos, what is it?”

“My two sons. My elder son Tomak was among the first to fall. My younger son, Yirrik, is in the wounded area. He has not wakened in days. I fear, he will be following my older son soon.”

“May we visit him Samos?”

He nodded, and I followed the heart broken king. We headed to the wounded area. Most of the wounded dwarves, will be able to travel. Several, including Samos’ son, will not be able to move on his own. “We will need to make carry litters for your son and several others when the time comes. Samos, I will promise you this. Should we make it, I will take your son with me to Stalvinport. There is a healer of good renown. I will ask him to heal your son.”

“Tor, I will hold you to that promise. Whatever happens to me, please, help him.”

“You have my word.”

“Then, my wife and I can sleep a bit easier tonight. In fact, I need to inform her as well. Tor, take this.” He pinned a badge on me. “Your access, is my access. Nothing will be withheld from you or forbidden to you. Whatever you need, for what it’s worth, my resources are yours to command. If we make it out of this alive, I will need a new man at arms and consul. I hope you will consider.”

“You honor me King Samos. However, let us proceed with one step at a time first.”

He nodded and went off, assuming to his wife. I went to the tombs of the dead and finished paying my respects. I then went to the courtyard to examine the catapults. With levers, one could be moved to be pointed towards the valley of the horde below. One, will be adequate to my plans. I went to one of the sentries, asking him where would be a cot I could sleep in. Seeing the king’s badge upon me, he saluted, and asked me to follow him. I did so, and we went to an elegant wing. He opened the door, and I entered. This room, was worthy of a commander. I looked at the sentry. “Is anything wrong commander?” I shook my head. “Everything is fine. Go back to your post.” “Yes sir!”

Samos meant every word, just like I meant every word. I took off my weapons and armor and fell into bed.

Since last night, I could sleep without fear of being killed because of my snores.