Rise of the Champions

by Nicholas Joslin

  “I’ve noticed you were using two swords to fight. Is that a style you often use?” Garon asked as they walked, breaking the silence.

  “Not at all. I’ve played around with it in the past a bit. It was sort of a last-minute thing after I lost my buckler,” Anna answered.

  “Well, you had surprisingly good form for someone playing around. I was actually trained by a master in the style. I could practice with you, if you were interested in continuing on with that form,” Garon mentioned, resting his hands on the pommels of his twin swords.

  Anna looked back at him, piqued by his offer. She found that dual wielding was an efficient combat style; she had seen Garon in battle and knew he was beyond proficient in such a form.

  “Could we practice today?” Anna asked, determination in her eyes.

  Garon blinked in surprise, not expecting her to agree so quickly. How she had any energy left was a mystery to him. However, he had seen her fight, and knew she was quite a fierce warrior who hadn’t yet reached her full potential.

  “Of course. Do you have any sparring swords?” Garon asked.

  “We can use the real thing, if you can hold back from killing me,” Anna teased as they approached her house.

  “I’m fairly certain I can manage that,” Garon replied with a chuckle.

  Garon waited outside her small home as she walked inside to grab her swords. He had been surprised by the kindness she had offered him since they had met. She appeared to trust him, something that warmed his heart. While they had been enemies a day ago, now they would fight together alongside whatever came next. He smiled, thinking of how glorious the Great Clan must have been when all humans fought side by side instead of against each other.

  While he had not ever actually trained someone himself, Garon thought back to his lesson with Trov; the old weapons-master had been a cold, concise teacher who often drew blood from Garon when they sparred. Trov had been a warrior for most of his life, until he suddenly left the clan as weapons master to explore Forthoton. When Trov returned, he wasn’t the same. This was around the same time Garon was able to begin his own training. Trov managed to convince the king chief that he would teach Garon much better than their current weapons master, which turned out to be true.

  As Anna came back out, Garon’s first thought was how her swords were mismatched; one was longer and heavier than the other, and they probably differed in quality as well. While it wasn’t ideal, he knew she may be limited from it.

  “You’re at a disadvantage by having two different swords, you know,” Garon noted.

  “Well this one is Titus’s sword. He just keeps letting me use it,” Anna said, shaking the smaller sword. “Why is it a disadvantage?”

  “Only because you could not interchange them like I can with mine. If you were to train one way, then suddenly have both swords in opposite hands, you may find yourself being clumsy, unused to the change in weight and size. Real twin swords are like two halves of the same weapon, complimenting and completing each other,” Garon explained.

  “I see. Perhaps someday I will have my own twin swords,” Anna replied.

  “Perhaps. Now, where should we practice?” Garon asked, looking around.

  “There’s a small field close to the port. Follow me,” Anna replied.

  The two walked down the small hill of the village towards the port. Garon was surprised to see so many ships, not knowing the Narsho even had one. Since Highrock was a landlocked village, they had no use for sailing. The only other clan he knew of that had these sorts of ships was the Linta Clan.

  As they reached a small open field, Anna readied herself. She knew Garon was a better fighter, but she wasn’t going to go easy on him. So far, using two swords had been effective, and she wanted as much training as possible before the upcoming battle.

  “Now, come at me with everything you have,” Garon said, a sword in each hand.

  “Gladly,” Anna replied, before running at him.

  The two trained for some time, Garon frequently surprised by Anna’s natural talent. He shared pointers with her and other techniques he had learned from Trov. Narsho onlookers were surprised by the sight, some taking time to cheer for Anna as they fought.

  After their training, they returned to Anna’s home for a meal and rest. Since Garon had no other place to stay, she made him a makeshift bed from straw and old blankets. She figured the former prince was less than enthused, but he did not complain. They went to sleep early, knowing they had a small journey ahead of them. Anna had trouble falling asleep, worrying about what the future held. Between the threat their clan faced and being pregnant, her head was a muddled mess. Training with Garon was the only time she had felt grounded and focused.

  Still, there was nothing she could do at that moment, and it was that fact that gnawed at her, as time was of the essence. She worried about their journey to the Ancient Clan, not knowing what creatures lurked in the Ancient Swamp. She managed to find some solace in knowing whatever they would encounter wouldn’t be as deadly as the Horrors that now ran rampant in the Cursed Lands.

  After circling around these thoughts, her body finally ran out of energy and she nodded off, her last thoughts of Fredrik and her future child.

  Chapter 14

  As Anna and her companions walked through the wide-open field the following day, Anna was happy to feel the warm sun against her skin again. It was a cool day, and she had bundled up the best she could. Not only that, but the forests of their land were thick and blocked out much of the sunlight. Anna dreaded thinking about how cold winter could be, and knew it was only a couple months away. She only hoped this would all be over by then.

  They now numbered seven people. Besides Anna, Garon, and the Forud Champion, they also were accompanied by four Narsho warriors and one of their village’s elders. Anna had known Elder Roy Matkon for some years, as he was known to be one of the nicer of the bunch. Elders were not just old members of the Narsho Clan, they were also a chosen few who supervised education and community projects that the chieftain didn’t have time or care much for. Not only that, but most were incredibly wise.

  “There’s so much land that’s remained … untouched,” Garon muttered from Anna’s side.

  “It’s a beautiful sight,” Anna added.

  “Oh, it certainly is. Most of the trees around Highrock Village and the hill area have been cleared. From up there the trees are so distant. We don’t have much to show for it, as many trees are burnt in our forges to produce more weaponry,” Garon explained with a slightly sorrowful tone. “It seems war doesn’t only waste human life.”

  Anna nodded, not saying anything. She was well aware of the cost of war. She had lost both family and friends fighting against the Highrock Clan. For all she knew, it could have been Garon who had killed them though she also knew it was pointless to dwell on it, as it would do nothing but further the cycle of violence.

  “If only we could stop our ceaseless fighting,” Elder Matkon sighed.

  “Perhaps we will after we destroy the Horrors. I can’t imagine my people would still seek Narsho blood after seeing such terrible beasts,” Garon said, looking to the elder.

  “Perhaps. However, our rivalry runs deep. I do wish to see it end in my lifetime, at least,” Elder Matkon said hopefully.

  “I will do everything I can. So far, your people have been nothing but kind to me, even if their kindness is simply leaving me be in peace,” Garon replied genuinely.

  “That’s good to hear. I will pray to the gods for your success,” Elder Matkon nodded with a small smile.

  Anna wasn’t sure if they could ever achieve peace. She had seen the hatred in Garon’s father’s eyes and in many of the Highrock warriors; they had been brought up to truly despite the Narsho people. That sort of indoctrination didn’t vanish overnight.

  Anna remembered the first time she had been told about the Highrock. She had been young, learning from a now deceased elder named George. He had taught them the Highrock Clan was misg
uided and hated them for reasons they likely no longer understood. She remembered wondering why people she didn’t even know could hate her, and how odd it sounded, but not long afterward, her father was killed in battle. Since then, Anna had tried to retain George’s teachings and stop herself from hating their ancestral enemies. It was not an easy thing to do. Meeting Garon, however, had made her realize that peace may yet be achieved.

  As they crossed the field and headed back into the forest, Anna felt the cool lack of sun get to her again. She tried to focus on other things, such as the chirping of the birds around them, or what she would say when they arrived at the Ancient Clan. Still, her head would wander back to her pregnancy or how far the Horrors may have reached. Could they have their own scouts? Were they organized or more animalistic? For all she knew, they could be watching now.

  Then she remembered the chilling voice she had heard. She didn’t know whose voice it had been, or even how it reached her, but it had been terrifying. Something about it made her nauseous, and the way it spoke made it sound inhuman. But she had understood every word despite that. She wasn’t sure if it was magic or something else, but she knew it was likely the voice of their leader.

  Anna removed a small flask from her pocket, the blue liquid inside tossing around like an angry ocean. As she took a sip of it per the shaman’s orders, she saw Elder Matkon looking at her. She watched as he hung back from the rest of the group to walk beside her.

  “How far along are you?” Elder Matkon whispered so only Anna could hear.

  “What?” Anna replied, not remembering having told him.

  “Sorry, I recognize that potion quite easily. It’s one of Olaf’s finest creations,” Elder Matkon explained, embarrassed he had surprised Anna.

  “I don’t know … Not too long. A month, two perhaps,” Anna replied, instinctively stroking her stomach.

  “Ah, I see. Congratulations. I’m surprised you would join us on this journey, however,” Elder Matkon added.

  “Why? It doesn’t slow me down,” Anna countered, feeling slightly offended.

  “Oh no, I know it doesn’t. I simply mean, many in your situation wouldn’t be here. If I may ask, why come with us?” Elder Matkon asked, voice still low.

  Anna thought about the elder’s words, knowing he wasn’t trying to offend her and was merely interested in her motives. In fairness, her persistence had probably confused some people. She had already done her part, and she knew that—but, it wasn’t over yet, not until everyone, including her unborn child, could be safe. For that, the Horrors had to be expelled from their land.

  “Because I want to see this through. I was the first one to encounter the Horrors, and they took the love of my life from me…I won’t stop until they’re defeated and we have a safe future for all of us,” Anna declared passionately.

  Everyone had heard and turned to listen. After hearing her words, a fortified look of courage crested across their faces. Anna felt emboldened, ready to take on whatever lay ahead.

  “We’re with you, Scout Myhre,” one of the Narsho warriors said from ahead with a hearty smile.

  The other warriors grunted in agreement, including the Champion Goreth. Garon turned and gave Anna a smile, which she couldn’t help reflecting. She was in good company, and she felt more confident than ever.

  “A good answer, Anna Myhre,” Elder Matkon answered with a grin.

  They continued for some time before they reached the crossroads, a place where the rough footpaths from four villages connected. The paths themselves weren’t too worn, as typically it made sense to travel a more direct route. Only walking to opposing villages would make someone take this route. The only reason they were here was to see Garon off.

  “Well, it’s time for us to part ways,” Garon said as he stopped.

  “Travel safely. Good luck with your father,” Elder Matkon wished.

  “Goodbye,” Goreth said, patting Garon on the shoulder and walking past him.

  Anna stopped in front of Garon, knowing he could make all the difference. She hadn’t known him long, but she had already gotten to know him well. If anyone could stop the clans from fighting, it would be Garon. She wanted to see him succeed more than anything.

  “Garon, it was nice meeting you, despite the situation. I hope you can talk sense into your father,” Anna said, extending her hand.

  “I hope I can talk sense into him too. I will do everything I can,” Garon replied, shaking her hand.

  “Then I hope to see you and your people soon,” Anna smiled.

  “I hope so too,” Garon replied.

  As they parted ways, Anna wondered if the exiled prince would be welcomed home. Killing the general had been one thing, but openly defying his father was likely the bigger crime. She wasn’t sure if he would succeed, but her gut told her he likely wouldn’t. Still, they needed every able-bodied warrior they had.

  Their journey continued on quietly, nobody having much to say to each other. A couple of the Narsho warriors exchanged battle stories, each trying to one up the other. Surprisingly, Goreth told his own story regarding some bandits he once fought. It wasn’t often anyone encountered bandits, as most people stayed within their clans their entire lives. Unsurprisingly, the story was told in the least elegant way possible and included more gore than Anna would have liked to have hear about. Even the calm and collected Elder Matkon seemed to wince at some of the Forud Champion’s gruesome details, which he spoke of as if it were normal.

  As they walked, they soon encountered a thin fog that lingered in the forest. With that, the slightest smell of a pungent swamp wafted through the air. Anna figured they must have finally reached the edge of the Ancient Swamp, as she didn’t think there were any other swamps in Forthoton.

  As they walked farther on, they reached the true beginning of the swamp; pools of festering water and sunken trees were all they could see in front of them. Anna had seen the swamp once in her life as a scout but had never traveled through it. As she stared over the soaked land, she had no idea how to proceed.

  “Hm. There should be a sort of boardwalk around here somewhere,” Elder Matkon pondered, walking close to the perimeter of the swampland.

  “A what? Have you been here before?” Anna asked.

  “The Ancient Clan built a wooden walkway so they may walk over the swamp rather than through it. Given we followed the crude footpath, I suspect there should be one close by. I visited once many, many years ago with one of their own leading us,” Elder Matkon explained, staring off into the waters.

  Anna and the rest continued to search, splitting up and walking around the swamp. As she stared into the water, she could see all sorts of movement. Bubbles, suspicious looking flora, and other things floated along the warm swamp water. She almost flinched when she spotted a large snake slither in front of her and into the water.

  Looking over at the others, she saw Goreth staring intently at one patch of water. She approached him, knowing it may have just been a symptom of his relative simplicity. However, his face seemed anything but empty, and his brain was indeed working hard.

  “Have you spotted something, Goreth?” Anna asked, standing next to him and following where his gaze.

  “Something about this spot don’t seem right,” Goreth murmured.

  Anna looked closer. The spot where he stared seemed normal enough; some reeds, water, and other typical plants native to such an environment stood quietly among the rest of the swamp. She knelt, looking closer. As she stared, she noticed something did seem off; she could just barely make out a vague outline of sorts, as if something may have been there.

  “You see it?” Goreth mumbled.

  “I think I do,” Anna replied.

  She looked around for a moment, grabbing a nearby stick. She then poked at the strange outline, and to her surprise the stick stopped in midair as if it hit something. She continued poking around to see how large the strange thing was. Whatever it was, it came right to the ground by her and extended forward beyond
her reach.

  Anna stood, dropping the stick and preparing herself. She carefully extended a leg over the water, took a deep breath, and then lowered her leg.

  “Don’t fall in,” Goreth murmured, staring intently, preparing to grab Anna if the worst happened.

  Anna’s foot finally stopped, touching the invisible barrier. A moment later, a strange shimmering and light came from the invisible wood, revealing part of the boardwalk. Anna confidently stepped forward onto it, a little more of the boardwalk ahead becoming visible.

  “What kind of sorcery is this?” Goreth asked lowly, seeming more disturbed than interested.

  “We found something!” Anna yelled to the others, ignoring Goreth’s discomfort.

  She waited for the warriors and Elder Matkon to make their way over. As they noticed the shimmering, half-visible boardwalk, they were all equally stunned. Anna took a few more steps forward, more of the path revealing itself in front of her as she progressed.

  “My, my; it seems they’ve concealed the path with magic. Very clever,” Elder Matkon observed, following behind Anna.

  “I don’t trust it,” Goreth added as he followed behind the Narsho warriors.

  “I guess we follow the path into the swamp?” Anna asked, looking to her elder for approval.

  “I suppose so. Lead on, Scout,” Elder Matkon said with a small smile.

  Anna nodded and followed the boardwalk through the murky swamp. It winded around the many trees and other obstacles of the swamp, slowly revealing itself more and more with each step. She looked behind them and noticed as they walked away, the boardwalk seemed to recede behind them, again concealing itself.

  The group continued for another fifteen minutes, following the single path. They had no other choice but to follow it, and Anna wondered if it was even leading them in the right direction. The silence of the swamp had begun to worry her, and she caught herself looking nervously in every direction. She felt as though they were being watched. It didn’t help that it was dark in the swamp, with only a few beams of sunlight making their way through both the clouds above and the trees.