Brothers in Arms: Book Two of the Hippo Chronicles

By B.A. Seloaf

Eight years have passed since the colony at the hippozones was destroyed, and the conflict with the Noori has escalated until the Filpini rulers are forced to admit a full-scale war is inevitable. Rumpo and Basordan are sent on a hazardous journey to seek an alliance with the people of Indesse, while the Filpini soldiers struggle to keep the ever-increasing number of Noori away from the border.

Brothers In Arms is the second volume in B.A. Seloafs epic fantasy tale about the hippos of Filpini and their age-old fight against the Noori. In this book Seloaf takes the story to a new level, forcing his characters to deal with the conflicting interests of different nations as well as with internal power struggles. Its a compelling tale where the reader is torn between hope and despair, and where the most triumphant moment can turn into utter defeat in the blink of an eye.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Nov 15, 2011
• ISBN: 9781462061334

B.A. Seloaf

B.A. Seloaf is a new fantasy author from Sweden. He has a degree in national economics from the University of Lund. On Hostile Ground is his first novel.

Book preview

Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Epilogue

Prologue

Watching the sun set across the lake, Nolimon felt a sudden certainty that he had done the right thing. The beauty of this place made his heart sing; he only knew a handful of places in Nurienna that might outshine this. Like a ball of liquid fire, the sun painted the western sky in scarlet and gold, colours more fair and wondrous than anything even the most skilful of artists could produce. Across the water a golden road of light was formed, disturbed only by the faintest of ripples. A sight like this could bring tears to any man’s eyes, and Nolimon had to strain himself to pull his gaze away.

He turned to inspect the long ranks of Noori behind him, stretching farther than his sharp Nurindrim eyes could see. There were tens of thousands of them, hundreds of thousands; he did not know their exact number. Men, women and children crowded the hills and plains to the east, surrounded by tall Nurindrim soldiers in shining armour and high plume-crested helmets. He could see animals as well: horses they had found and tamed, cows and sheep they’d caught grazing in the wilderness.

An entire people on the march, he thought. Each and everyone in need of food and shelter. The road has been hard so far, and there’s probably more hardship ahead of us, but we will make it. These are my people. They’ll endure.

They had left their ancient home, never to return. The company he’d brought to this land may seem huge, but was in fact only a small part of the population of the great kingdom of Nurienna, which covered half a continent and had several cities that could have swallowed Nolimon’s entire company.

He wasn’t surprised that so many had chosen to join him, leaving kith and kin and virtually all their possessions behind to start new lives in a land they knew nothing about. For centuries beyond count the people of Nurienna had been harried by the inhabitants of the land they called Hevrekia - demons and ghouls and other ghastly creatures, nameless horrors that came in the night searching for warm-blooded victims to feed on.

The powerful Nurienna army did their utmost to protect the kingdom’s citizens, but it was impossible to watch every inch of the Hevrekian border. The demonic creatures always seemed to find a way through the defences, melting into shadows and moving silently on feet that left no traces behind. Nurienna might seem like a paradise, but it was located right next door to hell.

One winter the Hevrekian raids had been worse than in many years, and one of their victims had been Nolimon’s own sister. That was when he’d finally decided to carry out the enterprise he’d contemplated for so long - to bring together all those who shared his views and set out in search of a land without evils, a land where they could live in peace and happiness. So far, this appeared to be just the place they’d hoped to find.

Some people claimed that Nolimon left because he wanted power for himself. As the king’s younger brother the highest position he could have attained was some sort of commander, either in the army or the palace guard, and there had been whispers that that would not satisfy Nolimon’s ambitions. Well, the king knew that wasn’t true, and even if he did not approve of Nolimon’s decision there were no hard feelings between them.

Their voyage had been long and hard, and some of their ships were lost in storms or got away from the others never to be seen again. They did not know where they were going or where to find other continents, but Nolimon’s heart had always led him to the west, into the setting sun, and after many long months on the sea they’d sighted this land in the distance.

There’d been no signs of inhabitation so far; the only living creatures that seemed to populate this land were birds and beasts, most of them already known to the Noori. The land was fair - perhaps not as spectacular as the Nurienna they’d left behind, but still full of flowers and hills and sparkling rivers. It would certainly be a good place for his people to dwell.

Nolimon ordered his followers to make camp by the lake. As the last rays of sunlight touched the horizon his numerous people gathered around him, covering many square miles of ground. Thousands of carts were pulled up to the campsite, laden with provisions and goods the Noori had brought with them across the sea. They’d taken apart most of their ships, using the wood to build the carts and wagons. Only a small number had been left at the eastern shore. They wouldn’t need them anymore.

Nolimon was just about to sit down and wait for the evening meal to be prepared when someone stepped up beside him.

Lord Nolimon, I’d like a moment of your time. There’s something you need to know.

It was Haratheus, the seer. Nolimon wondered what could have caused the old man’s urgency, but he knew better than to ask. Haratheus would tell him when he chose to, and no amount of pressure could make him change that. No man possessing a hint of wisdom disregarded the seer’s words, for they usually came true, though perhaps not in the way you expected.

Nolimon gestured for the old man to seat himself beside him. I’d be delighted to share my meal with you, seer.

Haratheus eyed the silken pillows suspiciously before sitting down, pulling his knees up towards his chest.

I’m not hungry, he muttered. I only require some of your time.

May I at least offer you a goblet of wine? Nolimon handed the seer a silver cup, then fell silent and waited for the other man to speak.

Fortunately, he didn’t have to wait long. Sometimes the seer kept his audience waiting for hours before he delivered his message. It was said that the old king had to wait for a week once, and when Haratheus finally spoke his message made no sense at all. Anyway, the man seemed eager enough this time, for which Nolimon was utterly grateful.

I’ve had a vision, the seer began. A foreboding of evil. I feel I must warn you, lord Nolimon. This may not be the peaceful country you’re looking for.

It looks peaceful enough so far, Nolimon replied. We haven’t met any other intelligent species, and no other ill-natured creatures. What evil have you seen?

The seer looked deep into the fire before them. The vision was vague. I could sense the threat, but my eyes were unable to focus on it. It was like it wasn’t there yet, but ready to take shape at any time now.

How would this threat affect us?

That was another thing I was unable to perceive. There wasn’t any sign of devastation, merely unhappiness and strife. War, possibly, or at least conflict. My lord, we won’t live in eternal peace here, the way your heart desires.

Nolimon considered the seer’s words carefully. I hear your warning, Haratheus, and I will carry it with me always. But I won’t lead my people away from this land, nor return to our ancient home across the sea. I think our destiny lies here, in this very region. This is what my heart tells me. If we won’t find happiness here, we won’t find it anywhere else either. Do you have anything else to tell me about this vision of yours?

The seer was silent for a long time, and Nolimon started to suspect he would hear no more from the man that day. But eventually Haratheus made one final statement.

Do as you wish, my lord. I can’t say what is right and what is wrong, and I see no ill awaiting you in the future. But beware the wrath of the medallion. This is all I have to tell you. I will leave you now.

The old man rose, and before Nolimon could say anything to halt him he disappeared among the many campfires surrounding Nolimon’s own. The Nurindrim lord sat silent for a long time, not touching the food set before him.

His brain struggled to make sense of the seer’s words. What could this threat be? Did it exist yet, or was it something they would encounter in the future? If so, would it be in his own lifetime? He was still a young man by the count of the Nurindrim, and many had called him impatient. Did some evil await them out there? Had they left the horrors of the Hevrekian forests to walk straight into some greater enemy’s arms? What was the wrath of the medallion?

The Noori remained a few more days by the lake, resting from their long march through this new land, but in the end Nolimon grew impatient and ordered his people to break camp and resume their search for a place to settle down. Their scouts had found a pass through the mountains lining the western horizon, and Nolimon was eager to find out what lay on the other side. The area surrounding the lake was beautiful, but with too much forests, hills and cliffs for his purposes. He needed to find a more suitable place for his people to settle down.

They passed the lake’s south end and continued northwest. The mountains grew taller with each mile they put behind them, until they stood tall and menacing like giant sentinels before their eyes. Some of the Noori grew uneasy and a few proclaimed that they should go back and stay away from this evil place.

For a moment the seer’s words returned to Nolimon’s mind, filling his heart with doubt, but then he braced himself and spoke to his people, assuring them there was nothing to fear in this land. So strong was the confidence he inspired that before long every man, woman and child that followed him had turned from fear to eagerness and shouted that they wished to move on. Like an immense serpent their company wound its way into the mountains.

They spent a few hours marching along the narrow mountain paths, and Nolimon wondered if they would ever reach the other side. He’d always preferred the valleys and small, swift rivers to the more barren highlands that could be found in the northern parts of Nurienna. Sure, a winter morning in the mountains could be dazzling, but he never felt like staying in those parts for long.

There were mountains in Hevrekia as well - jagged, steep cliffs with deep ravines full of sharp rocks that seemed ready to spear anyone who didn’t step carefully enough. Nolimon had been forced to travel through one such area when he led a force of soldiers sent to root out a nest of Kaura wolf-demons. The mountains had almost scared him as much as the creatures themselves.

At last a company of scouts returned and informed Nolimon that they had reached the end of the mountain range. Nolimon followed the scouts, ordering the rest of his people to stay behind while he went to take a look. He climbed the last few paces to where the path turned around a precipice and stopped, gazing at the land before and below him.

It was a fair land: rolling hills covered with green grass, small groves of trees scattered across the plains, vibrant streams meandering their way down into the lowlands. The mountains bordered it to the north and east, and he thought he saw more on the western horizon. The land between the mountains was vast, large enough for a numerous people to live there. Nolimon smiled to himself, for he knew he’d found the place he’d been looking for.

This will be our home, he told the scouts. Here we’ll settle down and live in peace until the end of time. This will be the Noori Vale.

Chapter One

Rumpo halted and let the small group of laundresses cross the corridor before he continued on. Frowning, he realized that he’d done everything he could to delay his arrival at the council chamber. He’d stayed in the practice yard longer than he was required, drilling his soldiers until all of them were soaked in sweat and ready to fall over from exhaustion. Then he’d taken a bath to relax his weary muscles, and had not stepped out of the bathtub until the water had cooled and he’d begun shivering. It had still felt too soon, though.

After the bath he’d dressed himself. The servants had brought his finest clothes: white linen shirt, black doublet with the five golden stars of Filpini embroidered on the chest, black breeches of the finest wool that could be found and black leather boots, polished until they shone. He would attend this meeting as the king’s son, not as the commander of his guardsmen.

Before Rumpo left his chambers he ordered the servants to bring some bread and ham. The exercise in the yard followed by the long hot bath had given him a gnawing hunger. There would be a banquet later tonight, with all the nobles and their retinues, but Rumpo felt that he needed something before that if he was to stay focused through the meeting to come. He tried to convince himself that it wasn’t just another reason to postpone the short walk to the council chamber.

Walking down the corridors of the royal palace in Hogbar, he suddenly came to wonder why this meeting made him so ill at ease. He had met all the people that would be present there before, most of them many times. Some were his relatives, close or distant, and all were loyal to his father, king Pelyas. No, it must be the matter at hand that caused this reluctance.

The decision had already been made, of course, and Rumpo knew that nothing the nobles said would sway his father’s opinion. The only reason for this meeting was to inform the most powerful citizens in Filpini what was to happen. They would discuss the details and the nobles were welcome to make their suggestions, but in the end it was the king who decided how everything was to be carried out. And the king only asked one person for advice before he made his decisions. His only son, Rumpo.

It had been the same nine years ago, when they planned the expedition to the hippozones. Rumpo had led the force of hippos into the Noori’s lands himself, and had managed to bring back the survivors to Filpini after the Noori defeated them. The project as a whole might have been a failure, but they’d learned much about the Noori and about warfare in general, things you could not learn unless you’d fought real battles against trained enemy soldiers.

In the years since Rumpo’s return they’d strived to improve certain skills and their soldiers and officers, using the knowledge they’d gained during their time in the hippozones. The Filpini army had not only grown in numbers, but had also become more versatile and flexible.

Experience teaches us things books can’t. Some of the old kings possessed great knowledge on subjects like these, but no amount of studying can prepare you for what you’ll face in a battle situation.

Many things had changed in Rumpo’s life since the day he returned from the Noori’s lands more than eight years ago. He had fallen in love with and then married a beautiful and intelligent woman by the name of Feona. She had given him a son, whom they had named Heor after the brave captain Herotis, who’d sacrificed himself to save Rumpo and more than a hundred others when the main hippozone fell. Heor was six years old now, a lively child who loved his parents as much as they loved him.

Just before entering the council chamber Rumpo stopped, his forehead creasing with a sudden tinge of worry. How would the decision he and his father had made affect his wife and son? There was no guarantee he’d come back alive when it was all done. What would happen to them if he failed? He’d chosen this course of action with the intention of providing Heor with a future of peace and happiness, but was this really the best way to achieve it?

Perhaps it was doubts like those that made him so unwilling to face the nobles. If he’d believed wholeheartedly in what they’d decided to do he would probably not have these qualms. But he knew matters like these were never that unambiguous.

The council chamber was a large, square room, high-ceilinged and windowless. Rumpo wondered if the people who’d built the palace had constructed the room in that way to prevent eavesdropping. Many important decisions had been made in this room over the centuries, some resulting in great victory and others in terrible defeat.

Rumpo had never liked the council chamber when his father brought him there as a child, to learn about negotiations and treaties. He’d always preferred the soldiers’ barracks and the practice yards. As he grew older he’d learned to appreciate problem-solving with words instead of with swords, and by now he was considered one of the most cunning debaters in the realm.

Once inside the chamber’s thick wooden door he stopped to study the people standing in small groups on the bare stone floor. Servants moved from group to group, offering wine and water to drink and sweetmeats and pieces of fruit to chew on. Rumpo took a goblet of white wine from a tray a pretty young woman held out. The girl smiled at him before continuing to her next destination. Rumpo took a sip from the silver cup and stepped farther into the chamber.

The major part of the most powerful Filpini nobility was gathered before him. His father, king Pelyas, stood close to the huge rectangular table occupying the southern half of the chamber. The king was engaged in a conversation with lord Bandaron, Basordan’s father. They were talking in hushed voices, serious expressions on both their faces. Neither seemed to have noticed Rumpo’s arrival, so he turned his attention to a man and a woman, both in their upper middle years, standing apart from the others.

The man was named Harkun, a lord from Seafarath - the most important city on Filpini’s western coast. Harkun was a tall man with a round belly, who appeared to have no limits when it came to swallowing down food and drink. Between gulps of wine he talked enthusiastically with a short woman in a long blue dress - Anira, the king’s younger sister and Alikos’s mother.

Harkun had unsuccessfully tried to convince Anira that he’d make a good match for her ever since her husband died twelve years ago. Every noble in Filpini knew that Harkun’s only reason for this was his hunger for power and influence, and Rumpo was not the only one shaking his head with incredulity at the burly man’s undiminished persistence after all the rejections Anira had given him.

Rumpo left the two of them to their conversation and moved towards the inner left corner of the chamber, passing a Hogbar lord and lady appearing to discuss the prices of wool and turnips. The woman did, at any rate; the man seemed more interested in looking down her generous cleavage. Their voices melted into the general murmur as Rumpo moved away from them.

He had spotted Leidoran, the most powerful Apo lord, standing alone with a goblet of wine in one hand. Leidoran was only a few years older than Rumpo and a good friend. He was just plucking some grapes from one of the servants’ trays when Rumpo stepped up to him.

So there you are, you little scoundrel. I heard you arrived this morning, but I haven’t seen you in the palace. I hope you had a pleasant journey.

Leidoran grinned when he saw Rumpo. Hello, big guy. I seized the opportunity to take a nap while the rest of you were sweating in the yard. I’m afraid I slept longer than I’d expected and only had time for a quick bath before coming here. I didn’t even get a proper midday meal. He took some more grapes and put one into his mouth.

How are things in the south, then?

Fine, just fine, Leidoran replied. Your cousin sends his regards. He’s doing an excellent job with the soldiers. Complains that you never come to visit, though. How long has it been since you last came to Apo?

Rumpo thought for a moment. Spring of last year, I think. I’ve been pretty busy since. When I don’t drill soldiers or solve conflicts my wife always finds something for me to do. Please tell Alikos how sorry I am when you get back.

The southerner nodded. How old is little Heor now?

Six. He keeps asking for a practice sword and someone to teach him to use it, but I think he’s still a little too young.

Raising an eyebrow, Leidoran took a swallow of wine before speaking. How old were you when you began practicing sword play?

Rumpo frowned. Why, about Heor’s age, but that’s not the same.

Oh? Leidoran rolled his eyes. Of course not. I never said it was.

No, but you implied…

Their conversation was interrupted by a loud fit of coughing from the king. Rumpo turned to see his father lean forward over the table, supporting himself with both hands. Bandaron had found a cup of water and offered it to the king. The old man gasped for breath as he lifted the cup to his mouth and took a deep swallow. With a few quick steps Rumpo was at his father’s side.

Are you all right, father?

The king produced a strained smile. Don’t worry, son. I’m fine. The cough gets worse when the weather changes, is all.

Perhaps we should move the meeting to another day?

No. His father shook his head stubbornly, then took another swallow of water. I feel good. It’s just a cough, nothing serious. I’m as strong as ever. Let’s commence the meeting at once. He raised his voice. Everyone, would you please take your seats. We have much to discuss.

Rumpo wasn’t convinced by his father’s cheerful words. He knew Pelyas’s health wasn’t as good as it had been a few years ago. They had consulted a number of healers to relieve him of his nasty cough, but all they’d been able to do was give him some herbal tea that made him sleepy. There’d been no improvement to the cough as far as Rumpo could tell.

As the nobles seated themselves around the heavy oaken table the servants left the council chamber, leaving pitchers of wine and water for the remaining people to help themselves. King Pelyas sat in the high seat at the table’s far end. Rumpo, Bandaron and Leidoran took their seats on the table’s right side, while Anira, Harkun and the Hogbar lord and lady sat down opposite them. The king cleared his throat.

We are gathered here to discuss some very important matters, he began. Most of you took part in the planning of the expedition to the hippozones nine years ago. You all know that the Noori turned out to be a more powerful enemy than we’d expected.

Leidoran interrupted. Your Grace, it was our knowledge of them that was insufficient. Our warriors were more skilled and courageous than the Noori. They drove us from their lands because they possessed the greater number of soldiers. We know more about them now, about their strengths and weaknesses. If that expedition were to take place today…

The king raised his hand for silence. Leidoran bowed slightly and reached for his goblet. Pelyas coughed into his fist before resuming.

It’s true that we know more about the Noori now than we did nine years ago, but there are still many areas where we can only guess. How great are their assembled armed forces? How are their borders and cities defended? How much do they know about us? Are they planning to move against us in force? We’ve had many encounters with them since the time when the hippozones fell. My son can tell you more about this.

Taking a swallow from his silver goblet, the king gestured for Rumpo to begin. Rumpo leaned forward slightly, eyeing the members of the council one by one before speaking.

"Before the expedition to the hippozones no one in Filpini had seen a Noori, much less fought one. Few of our soldiers ventured north into Sim, and none had ever climbed the passes leading into the Noori’s lands. We didn’t think it necessary, and it appears the Noori didn’t either.

But after our return from the hippozones things changed. We sent scouts north to espy the Noori’s actions, making sure their soldiers didn’t cross the mountains into our lands. In the beginning they found no signs of enemy activity, but we continued to keep watch. A year passed, maybe a little more.

Rumpo paused and studied the faces of the other council members. Anira eyed him calmly, whereas Harkun seemed bored, playing restlessly with his goblet. Bandaron’s face was expressionless. Taking a deep breath, Rumpo went on.

Then all of a sudden our scouts encountered Noori troops patrolling the border. Both sides appeared hesitant to engage in battle and withdrew enough to avoid direct conflict. The Noori kept sending armed troops into the mountains, though, and finally one of our companies was attacked and two scouts were killed.

Harkun spoke up. Why are you telling us this now? We’ve suspected the situation up north has grown more serious these past years, even if no one bothered to tell us about it. We can’t change what’s in the past.

Be patient, Harkun, the king grumbled. You need this information to understand the decisions we’ve made. You’ll learn of those decisions soon enough. Just listen now.

At a nod from his father Rumpo resumed his report.

"After that skirmish we started sending soldiers up north, fully armed and ready for battle. By then the Noori had sent troops across the mountains into Sim. Our soldiers drove them back to their own lands and established a permanent guard against enemy invaders. This is now six years ago.

We didn’t have to wait long for the Noori’s reply. Within the year new, stronger troops appeared along the southern border of their kingdom. We had to strengthen our own companies to meet this new threat. Not a month passed without one or two skirmishes on either side of the mountains. The tension increased. Today, we don’t know for how much longer we can prevent the outbreak of a full-scale war.

The Hogbar lord on the other side of the table burst out. But that’s horrible! How could this have gone so far out of hand without us learning about it? Why didn’t anyone do something?

The king coughed before replying. The answer to your first question, Oswell, is that our army was, and still is, perfectly capable of handling the situation along the northern border. As for why we didn’t do anything, what would you suggest we do? We weren’t prepared for a full-scale war, and we couldn’t pull back and let the Noori move their soldiers south into Sim, where nothing would prevent them from reaching the Filpini border. All we could do was try to keep the situation as stable as possible.

Silence followed the king’s explanation. Everyone seemed to know that this was where the important part of the meeting started. Rumpo waited for someone to ask the inevitable question, the question that would move the conversation to the subject that had made him feel so uneasy the whole day. It appeared all the assembled nobles waited for someone else to ask, because the silence stretched out until it became almost painful.

Finally, Anira sighed and broke the spell. So, what do we do now?

Rumpo heard several of the council members let out long breaths. He eyed his father. King Pelyas looked down into his lap, obviously unwilling to answer his sister’s question. They had agreed that the task of telling the other nobles what they’d decided to do belonged to the king himself, to give the words more impact. So Rumpo held his peace and waited.

I think, the king began, that it is time for us to end the war against the Noori once and for all. It’s been more than a thousand years since the first battles were fought, and the war might go on for another thousand years if we don’t find a way to end it. Now, within the near future.

Camille, the Hogbar lady who’d been concerned about the price of turnips, looked puzzled.

How are we going to do that? she asked.

King Pelyas kept his gaze steady in front of him without facing anyone in particular.

I have decided that we will attack Noori Vale itself, he said.

Silence.

After a while the king resumed. I think that this war has to be fought sooner or later, whether we decide to strike the first blow or wait for the Noori to do it. I also think that it would be much better to fight this war in the enemy’s lands. That way our civilians won’t have to suffer the terrors of war: burned villages, slaughtered men, raped women and orphaned children. We will send our armies into the Noori’s lands, and we will do it soon.

Once again, Anira was the one to break the silence that followed the king’s announcement.

I understand that war is inevitable, and so I won’t speak against it. I understand that the reason we’re here isn’t to discuss whether or not this war will be fought, but rather how and where. Therefore I’d like to ask you, Your Grace, if attacking the Noori’s lands is the wiser course of action?

The king regarded his sister thoughtfully. Would you rather have the Noori attack Filpini, Anira?

Anira shook her head. Of course not. I understand the kind of devastation a war like that would bring to our kingdom and its people. A victory in such a war would be worth little more than defeat. No, what I’d propose is that we await the Noori’s attack in Sim, protected by the mountains to the north. The Noori would be forced to cross the mountains slowly, and that would give us a great advantage.

I agree with lady Anira, Bandaron interjected. Meeting the enemy in the country of Sim would be much preferable to launching an attack on Noori Vale itself. We would have to battle down city walls, fight well-trained defenders with every advantage imaginable on their side. We would need superior numbers, and if we managed to conquer their kingdom, which I very much doubt, our losses would be excessive, petrifying. As you said, we don’t know their full strength. Attacking them in their own strongholds would be madness.

Who would lead such an attack? Anira demanded to know.

Rumpo looked up. He’d been silent up to this moment, listening to the arguments he’d expected to hear. He knew that many of the nobles were of a cautious nature, caring more about keeping their own lands safe than about the kingdom as a whole. Glancing at Harkun, he wondered why the burly man hadn’t joined the discussion yet. Harkun was known for his reluctance to support any military action, whether against foreign or domestic threats.

Anira’s question was simple enough, so he answered it.

I would.

All the people in the council chamber turned their faces to him. It seemed almost like they’d forgotten he was there. Rumpo tried to read the expressions in their eyes. Anira’s looked to hold mostly sadness, Leidoran’s a mix of admiration and disbelief. Did they think him mad for taking such a task upon himself? Harkun eyed him watchfully, as if the heavyset man expected him to transform into an Oronkil axe troll right then and there.

Before anyone could ask another question, the king spoke again.

Your suggestion may seem wise at first glance, Anira. It’s true that the mountains would offer us excellent protection against a Noori attack. Unfortunately, the Noori are likely to know that as well as we do. If we move our entire army to the border they’d probably do the same, and then we’d have the same situation as we do now, only a lot worse. Plus, a stalemate like that could last for years, and I’m sure you know how costly it’d be to maintain an army for such a long time.

But surely the cost of moving the army into enemy territory would be even greater? Bandaron persisted.

With all respect, lord Bandaron, Harkun rumbled, I think the king possesses the greater wisdom here. For one, the farther away from our own lands this war is fought, the better. Only a fool would argue with that. Second, if we strike the first blow ourselves we’ll be able to fight this war in a way that suits us. We’ll get to use our soldiers’ skill and courage the way they’re supposed to be used - for offensive action! If we remain defensive and wait for the Noori to attack us we’ll be forced to adapt our strategies to theirs, and that road can only lead to disaster.

Rumpo eyed the Seafarath lord in amazement. He’d expected Harkun to be the one most reluctant to wage war against the Noori, and now he was the only one to support the cause. Perhaps the big man wasn’t as blinkered as he’d thought.

He was almost tempted to ask him why he’d changed his mind so suddenly, but the king raised his voice once more.

However great our soldiers’ skills may be, I seriously doubt we possess enough strength to conquer Noori Vale. As Bandaron said, our own losses would be much greater than those of the defenders. Our armies would smash themselves to pieces against their strong walls, and only a few would return and tell the story of our defeat.

Bandaron regarded the king, disbelief plain on his face. But why do you suggest we attack them if you don’t think we have any chance of victory?

The king coughed twice, took a swallow of water, and smiled at his kinsman.

We won’t be able to do it alone, he said, obviously satisfied that he’d managed to get the discussion where he wanted it. But if we had a powerful enough ally by our side…

Rumpo watched the faces around him. Some looked puzzled, some suspicious. They were nobles, people who’d often formed alliances to strengthen their own positions. They knew that an ally could be fully trusted only if he or she was more dependent on the alliance than you were yourself, or at least believed so. He let them ponder the king’s words a few more moments before moving to the discussion’s next stage.

You all know of the island kingdom of Indesse, he began. It’s located far out at sea, north-east of Filpini and almost straight east of the Noori’s lands. The inhabitants are hippos, just like us. They’ve never been our friends, but nor have they ever been our enemies. They prefer to keep to themselves, that’s all. We’ve gathered all the information we could find about these people, and none mentioned any friendship between them and the Noori. We mean to seek an alliance between them and us.

There was a pause as the council members absorbed this. Camille was the first to speak.

I’m not sure I like this, she said.

How’s that? Rumpo enquired.

The Hogbar lady shrugged, a graceful gesture that made her bosom bounce pleasantly.

I don’t know if I’d trust such an alliance. I mean, the things you hear about the Indesse hippos are almost as bad as what people say about the Noori. They’re said to marry brother to sister, to leave unwanted children out in the woods for wolves to feed on, to cook their enemies in huge black cauldrons…

Leidoran laughed out loud. Those are fairy-tales meant to frighten naughty children, Camille. If you Hogbar folks believe those, you must be bigger fools than we in the south. Noori don’t eat bugs and snakes, the Oronkili don’t drink blood, and the hippos of Indesse don’t cook people. No, what we need to discuss is if they’re willing to form an alliance with us, and how likely they are to do their share in the coming war. How much information do we have about them, Commander?

Rumpo smiled at his friend. Not much, Leidoran. There are no accounts of them eating any of their enemies, though. They’ve always kept to themselves. Not many have crossed the sea to visit Filpini in our time, and none of them stayed long enough to teach us much about their culture. Even so, they’re hippos like us, a different branch of the same kindred. Convincing them to join us should not be impossible.

Perhaps not impossible, Anira put in. But definitely not easy. If they’re as introverted as you say it won’t be enough just to ask them to join us because we need their help. We must offer them something in return. Something so valuable they’ll be prepared to sacrifice thousands of their own people.

Gold? Bandaron suggested. Filpini is a fairly rich kingdom. I’m sure there are a few chests we can spare. These Indesse savages are probably not too used to such precious metals. The glimmer will make their eyes glow with greed, and the tinkling will fill their ears like a haunting tune.

Speaking from personal experience, Bandaron? Harkun said in a slightly amused voice.

Oh, come on, Harkun, Bandaron continued. You know as well as I that almost everyone can be bought. It’s not nice, I know, but it’s the way the game is played. We’ll offer the Indesse people a small portion to begin with, to awaken their appetite. The rest will have to wait until the war is over and won.

Anira shook her head. The question is not what we can spare, my lords, but what they’ll want. The best thing would be to find some thing they need, but that’ll take much longer to find out.

What do you mean, lady Anira? Oswell asked. Gold is something everyone needs. Even if you have some you can always use a little more. Right, Camille?

The young Hogbar lady flashed him a dazzling smile. Anira’s face showed a hint of impatience as she resumed.

I’m afraid it’s not that simple, Oswell. We don’t know anything about the way these people live, or what their preferences are like. If, as Bandaron suggests, their standard of living is below ours, then gold might be an effective means of persuasion. But what if they’re as rich as we are, or even richer? Perhaps they don’t even care about riches. They might be interested in completely different things. What if they want power? Or land?

Land? Camille echoed, her eyes full of disbelief. You mean, like giving them a part of Filpini? Why would they want that? Rumpo just told us they seem perfectly happy with living out there on their island.

It’s true that they’ve never expressed an interest in expanding their territory, Anira said. But they’ve never asked for our gold, either. Remember that they live on an island, with a limited supply of ground to use for farming and breeding stock. Is it unlikely that land would be more valuable to them than coins or jewellery?

It’s far from unlikely, Rumpo said. The question is: are we ready to give up some part of our kingdom for this alliance? Would our people be willing to share this piece of land with them? What if they want to have representatives on our councils? Would you marry one of your daughters to one of their lords?

Bandaron frowned, and Rumpo heard others mutter about savages and barbarians. He wondered what would be more difficult - bargaining with the people of Indesse or with these nobles. They had gold, more than they could ever spend, and wouldn’t mind giving away some of it to protect their kingdom. Power and influence was a different matter, though. No noble would give up any of that freely.

Rumpo suspected that none of them would be willing to let some foreigner marry their son or daughter, much less inherit some part of their property. If that was what the Indesse lords required, then there would certainly be trouble. Sure, the king had the power to enforce such an arrangement, but Rumpo feared that would lead to open rebellion, and that would most likely overthrow their plans for a long-term campaign against the Noori.

As Rumpo watched the dissatisfied faces surrounding him he wondered what would have happened if he was still unmarried. What if his father had arranged for him to marry some Indesse princess? He’d be forced to concede, but how would he have felt about it? He wasn’t sure.

The king spoke again. We’re ready to offer them everything you’ve suggested for their allegiance. We’ll begin with gold, and if that doesn’t work we’ll try other things. We’ll try to avoid offering them land and influence here in Filpini as long as we can, and hope that they’ll accept some part of Sim or of the Noori’s lands instead. Of course they’ll be entitled to their share of whatever valuables we’ll find in Noori Vale once it’s conquered. Any price would be worth paying if they can contribute with five or ten thousand warriors. That will most likely mean the difference between victory and defeat for us.

Well, Leidoran said, It’s certainly worth a try. Who will we send there to negotiate with them? I can do it if no one else wants to.

The commanders Rumpo and Basordan will go, the king replied. We need someone who can judge the military strength of Indesse and has the authority to speak for the royal house. It’s also possible that the Indesse lords will be honoured by the presence of two of my closest relatives. We hope that’ll make them more compliant to our proposal.

A wise decision, Harkun rumbled. Honour probably means a lot to these brutish people. Sending the king’s own son as emissary is a gesture even they must understand. I take it we’ll send a strong guard with them.

Rumpo had been silent, immersed in his own thoughts, but now he spoke up.

Basordan and I will go alone.

Alone?! Bandaron burst out. Are you mad? Who knows what these savages are capable of. They might keep you as hostages, or slay you for all I know. I won’t send my son unprotected into a country that might be hostile to us.

The king raised his hand for silence. We’re not sending them to their deaths, my dear Bandaron. The people of Indesse are not foolish enough to harm emissaries come to discuss a possible alliance. They know that would result in us attacking them, and what would they gain from that?

Bandaron was still not convinced. I demand to have an escort accompany them.

A strong escort would only be taken as a sign of our mistrust, Rumpo explained. And besides, what would ten or twenty soldiers matter? If they wanted to kill us, an armed escort wouldn’t be able to stop them. But I don’t think there’s any reason to fear. Basordan and I will be safe enough there. I worry more about the voyage than about murder attempts.

Leidoran burst out laughing and Harkun chuckled softly. The king smiled, then rose from his position in the high seat.

If there’s nothing else to discuss, I suggest we close this meeting. I don’t think any of you wants to be late for tonight’s banquet.

Definitely not! said Leidoran. This is the first time I’m away from my wife since our first kid was born. I plan to enjoy myself as much as I can.

The other nobles rose and bowed to the king. Harkun took Anira by the arm and led her towards the door. The woman didn’t seem pleased with that, but she probably didn’t want to create a scene in front of the others. When the room was empty Rumpo went over to his father, who scribbled down some notes on a piece of parchment.

Are you sure you’re up for this, father? That cough doesn’t sound good at all.

Pelyas smiled at him. I know you’re just concerned about my welfare, Rumpo, but sometimes you worry a bit too much. Old men get aches every now and then. There’s nothing to do but accept that you’re not as young as you used to be and try to enjoy life as best you can.

Rumpo nodded. Would you at least lay down for a while. There are still a couple of hours before the banquet begins.

I’ll do that if I can find the time. The cough tends to get worse when I’m flat on my back, though. Too bad I’ve never been good at sleeping in chairs.

Perhaps Basordan could give you lessons. He used to be able to sleep while hanging upside down from a tree.

The king chuckled, then coughed twice. The sound made Rumpo wince.

Remind me to ask him tonight. Off with you now. I’ll be finished with this in a minute.

Rumpo found Leidoran waiting for him outside the council chamber. The Apo lord flashed him a broad grin.

How about joining me for a drink in my chambers, Rumpo? You look like you’d need one. And there’s a small matter I’d like to discuss with you.

I’m afraid it’ll have to wait for another time, Rumpo said. There are a few things I have to give some thought, and then I’ll head back to see how the family is doing. But please tell me if there’s anything I can do for you.

Leidoran shuffled his feet and looked slightly embarrassed.

Oh, just a silly little thing. If you could, you know, some time during tonight’s feast, you know, try to get Oswell away from Camille for a while. Preferably when there’s a slow tune playing. I’d like very much to have that delicious bosom pressed against me.

Rumpo laughed. I’ll see what I can do, but it seems Oswell has his eyes on the same thing. I don’t want the two of you to end up in a fight.

Oh, of course not. Leidoran shook his head. He can have her back after a few dances. You know I’m a happily married man.

I know. So am I.

Leidoran smiled. I don’t suppose you’ve changed your mind about that drink?

I’m afraid not. Let’s save it for tonight, okay?

Okay. And thanks.

The two men strode off in separate directions.

Chapter Two

Rumpo went for a walk around the palace compounds before returning to his own chambers. He remembered a time when he’d thought the palace was infinite, when its corridors and courtyards was the only part of the world he’d seen. Funny how things changed when you grew up. The royal palace in Hogbar was certainly the largest building complex in Filpini, but a man could walk around it in much less than an hour without exhausting himself.

As he walked through the garden at the centre of the palace he thought about today’s meeting.

It went rather well, all things considered. We knew some of the nobles would make objections, and they didn’t cause more trouble than we’d expected. They knew the decision had already been made, and that refusing to cooperate would only put them in a less advantageous position. If the king decides we’re to attack Noori Vale there’s nothing for them to do but gather their own soldiers and send them to join the main force.

But that wasn’t really what had troubled him before the meeting. Whether the nobles supported their decision or not didn’t matter. He still had to convince himself that this was the right thing to do. So many things could go wrong in a campaign of this magnitude. They knew far from enough about the Indesse hippos to be certain an alliance with them would work satisfactorily. If they didn’t fulfil their part the project was doomed to fail, resulting in the death of thousands of people. Tens of thousands, perhaps.

Rumpo stopped, frowning at the trees in front of him. Autumn had come to Filpini, and the leaves had turned from bright green to shades of yellow and red. The air was cooler too, he noticed. It was almost too cold to be outside without a cloak.

The timing was another thing they’d spent a lot of time discussing. They’d chosen to attack the Noori at winter, hoping their enemies’ vigilance wouldn’t be as sharp as during the more pleasant seasons. That didn’t give them much time to form the alliance with Indesse and get their armies moving. If they hadn’t reached the Noori’s lands by the end of the year…

But first we’ll have to make sure there is an alliance with Indesse. If that part of the plan fails it won’t matter how well prepared we are. No alliance – no invasion. So we’d better find a way to make them join our cause.

He remembered what Anira had said earlier. The question is, what do they want?

He and Basordan had to find out how these people thought, what ideals they had, and what might convince them to risk thousands of lives in an enterprise like this one. Negotiating with someone whose wants and needs you knew nothing about was close to impossible. Learning enough about their culture in so short a time would be one of the most difficult parts of the whole project.

Rumpo kicked a stone lying on the ground before him. It vanished into some nearby bushes. There was really not much he could do about it now. They had done all the planning they could; the rest was for the future to tell. He turned and began walking back towards his chambers. His wife would be waiting for him. It wouldn’t do for the king’s son to arrive late at tonight’s banquet.

Feona was already dressed when Rumpo returned to their chambers. He stopped in the doorway to admire her for a moment.

She’s so beautiful, he thought. How on earth did I get a woman like this to marry me? I must look like a vagabond next to her.

As he entered the bedchamber Feona looked up and smiled at him. Her skirts made a soft swish-swish when she moved to meet him. Rumpo put his arms around her and kissed her lips softly.

You’re late, my love, she breathed into his ear. Her breath felt warm against his skin after the chill of the garden. I thought we’d get some time alone before the banquet. Did something go wrong?

Rumpo hugged her closer to him. No, everything’s fine. I went for a walk after the meeting was closed. There were some things I needed to think about. I’m sorry if I kept you waiting.

Leaning her head against his chest, Feona sighed softly.

I know, she whispered. I’ve done a lot of thinking myself. I know you have to do this, but it still worries me. Are you sure it’s the only way?

Rumpo stroked the back of her neck gently. What could he tell her? That he had the same doubts she did?

No, that would only make her feel worse. I have to convince her the danger is insignificant. But how?

We’ve discussed this before, my love. The war is inevitable. If we don’t attack them they’ll attack us. Even Harkun saw the truth of that.

Feona lifted her head and looked into his eyes, blue eyes meeting grey. There was a hint of surprise on her face.

I wasn’t talking about the war. I know we can’t avoid it. Her voice was louder now, with more heat in it. I meant the trip to Indesse. I have a bad feeling about it. I wish you didn’t have to go yourself. Why not let Leidoran accompany Basordan? Or send for Alikos?

I have to do this myself, Rumpo replied, with sadness in his voice. It’s too important. We have a better chance of success if the king’s son performs the negotiations than if we send some lesser lord.

But Alikos is your cousin. He’s of the royal house as well.

Rumpo couldn’t help but chuckle softly. Alikos is a good soldier and a faithful friend, but I don’t want to know what would happen if we sent him to negotiate with the people of Indesse. We could kiss this alliance good-bye if he got angry and started calling them barbarians or savages. No, let him do what he does best. He loves drilling the soldiers in the south.

Something glistened at the corner of Feona’s eye, but she put her head back on Rumpo’s chest before the tear could fall.

I’m just worried, she murmured.

Don’t be. As long as we survive that bloody boat trip we’ll be fine. These people are not our enemies. I’m sure…

Daddy!

Rumpo looked up to see his son scamper towards them. Heor was tall for a six-year-old, with his mother’s blue eyes and a laugh that could make anyone forget their own troubles and smile. Rumpo held out his left arm to receive him. The boy nuzzled his face into his parents’ clothes for a moment, then looked up at his father.

I want to be at the banquet, he said, eyes pleading. Please, daddy. Let me go with you.

Sighing softly, Rumpo put a hand on Heor’s shoulder. Your mother has already told you, Heor. Children are not allowed there. Besides, you’d get bored before we’d finished the first course.

No, I wouldn’t! I’d be good. I wouldn’t say a word. Please, let me come. I want to see all the food, and the lords and ladies too.

I’m sorry, son. There’s nothing I can do about it. Rumpo winked at the little boy. I’ll see if I can get one of the servants to bring you a piece of the cake, though.

Heor’s face suddenly brightened. Yaay! he shouted. Make them bring a large piece! Two pieces. Nanny will want some too.

Rumpo laughed. Oh, I bet she does. Now go back to her. Your mother and I are already late.

Heor smiled at his parents, then his face suddenly took on a worried look.

Why is mommy crying? he wondered. Has something happened? Mommy, what’s wrong?

Feona produced a handkerchief and wiped her tears away.

Nothing, my boy. I’m just happy that we’re all here together. People cry from joy too, you know that. Now, go see what Nanny is up to. She must be bored with all those toys and no one to play with

Heor laughed, then turned back towards the door.

Two pieces of cake! he called back over his shoulder. A big one for me and a small one for Nanny. She’ll be fat if she eats too much. Then he was gone.

Rumpo hugged his wife closer to him. We should be on our way.

Feona sighed, turned, and moved a few steps away from him. For a moment she stood silent with her back to him. Rumpo looked at her without comprehension.

Feona, what is it?

His wife sighed again. Oh, it’s nothing. I just wish we could stay away from this banquet. Spend the evening together, just the three of us. That would’ve been much nicer.

Rumpo went to her and, grabbing her gently by the arms, turned her around so he could look into her eyes. There were still tears in them.

Why don’t you want to go to the banquet, Feona? he enquired. It’s not just that you want to spend time with me and Heor. There’s something else.

Feona took a step back, and Rumpo let go of her arms. She moved over to one of the windows and gazed out across the courtyard below.

It’s Hardan, she finally said. Lord Harkun’s bastard son. I don’t like the way he looks at me. It’s like he’s undressing me with his eyes. I don’t want to meet him.

Oh. Rumpo sat down on the bed. Harkun’s son was infamous for his bad manners and his appetite for women. He’d got into trouble more than once when drunk, and would probably have ended up in a prison cell if his father hadn’t used his influence to bail him out.

So the bastard has his eyes on my wife now? Well, he’d better keep his distance, or I’ll make sure he ends up in that prison cell no matter what that fat oaf Harkun says.

He tried to make his voice cheerful as he continued.

Well, at least he has good taste. You’re aware that you’re awfully hot, right?

Feona snorted loudly. It’s not funny, she complained. It makes me uncomfortable.

Don’t worry, love. I’ll be there, and I’ll make sure he doesn’t come anywhere near you. He rose again. It’s time. You look astounding. Come, let’s try and have a good time.

Smiling, Feona turned and moved close to Rumpo. All right. Let’s go.

She kissed him, making his whole body tingle. He loved his wife more than anything in the world.

Suddenly a shadow came across his heart. What if something happens while I’m in Indesse? What if something goes wrong and I never come back? What will happen to Feona and Heor then?

He forced himself to push the thoughts away and took Feona by the hand. Come, he said.

* * *

Feona eyed her husband from the corner of her eye as they made their way towards the ballroom. She knew he was worried, even if he’d tried to hide it from her - she could see it in his eyes despite his smiles and confident words. He had his doubts about this trip to Indesse, the same way she did. Feona wished there was something she could do to stop him from going. It appeared nothing could change his mind, though.

She tried to put the thoughts away. Tonight was going to be fun. This was the biggest banquet the royal palace had seen in years. Lords and ladies from all over the kingdom would attend, and the food was supposed to be extraordinary. The only problem was that Feona couldn’t find her appetite.

Perhaps I’m being foolish, she thought. Why am I worrying about Hardan this way? The only thing he’s done is look at me, and looks can’t do any harm. Besides, Rumpo will be there, and close to a hundred other guests.

She smiled and nudged her husband’s arm. Don’t get too drunk tonight, love.

The tall man looked startled. Me? Drunk? When did you ever see me drink too much? You must have gotten me confused with Alikos, or maybe Harkun.

Feona laughed silently. "Well, have you forgotten Alikos’s thirtieth birthday? Or Basordan’s last spring?