Legends Lost Tesnayr
Page 76
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Tesnayr thumped his fist against his thigh. He had promised the kings and Max an explanation about how he knew so much about those creatures. Even Nigilin and Arnin were present. He wished he did not have to tell them a part of his story that he wanted to forget.
“Tell us everything,” said King Shealayr. “How do you know those beasts?’
Tesnayr took a deep breath. He twirled the chess piece between his fingers. “Have you ever played chess?” He showed them the piece in his hands. “It is a popular game from where I come from. All children learn to play it. It is a game of strategy and cunning. I taught the game to Galbrok.”
The surprised expressions on their faces told Tesnayr that he had just punched them all in the gut. How could he keep this a secret much longer?
“Yes, I knew him quite well,” said Tesnayr, “The orcs entered my home fleeing from a terrible monster: the niht’anda. They had destroyed the home of the orcs. The king offered them refuge. When the niht’anda came, we formed an alliance with the orcs. It served our purpose to work together. The niht’anda were stronger than any enemy we had ever faced.
“The war lasted for several years. Gradually, we managed to drive those monsters back. There was one battle that was to end it all. The niht’anda were weak.
“I was in command of the army. Before the battle began that day, Galbrok and I played a friendly game of chess. I thought we were friends. We had fought together throughout the war. He even saved my life a few times. We rode into battle together that day.
“But then things took a turn for the worse. Somehow, Galbrok had gained the niht’andas’ loyalty. With the niht’anda behind them, the orcs turned on us. The men under my command were killed within moments and I was taken prisoner. When all was over, Galbrok murdered the king before us to prove that he was our new master.
“While I was held prisoner, I learned the truth about Galbrok. He and the orcs had invaded the realm of the niht’anda. The niht’anda retaliated by vanquishing the lands of the orcs. While we were fighting the niht’anda, Galbrok managed to gain their trust. His lust for conquest matched their own, forming a common bond. Galbrok used the king’s good will against him. And you know what the result of that was.”
“So this war is really a continuation of the conflict between you and Galbrok,” said King Telinin, who had arrived moments before.
“It is much more than that,” replied Tesnayr. “The orcs would have come here regardless. That is their way.”
“So how do we defeat him?” asked King Edrei.
“By outsmarting him,” said Tesnayr. “War is more than a game of strength. It is a game of wits. You must out think your opponent. But now we should rest. We have a long ride ahead of us tomorrow.”
“This game you taught Galbrok, did you ever beat him?” asked Nigilin.
“No,” answered Tesnayr.
“Why was that?”
“Because I always used the same tactic,” said Tesnayr, “Until now.”
Nigilin took in what Tesnayr said leaving him alone in the night. A small noise forced Tesnayr to turn around. Turyn silently padded into sight.
“Turyn,” said Tesnayr. “What news have you brought me?”
“Plenty,” said Turyn.
“Here, have some food,” said Tesnayr. “Tell me everything.”