Things Grak Hates

by Peter J Story

  Brak’s anger redirects toward Kunthar. “What does that mean? I’m an excellent offer! If I were up for trade! Which I’m not!”

  Grak rolls his eyes. “Alright, clearly no one’s pleased with that deal. So, Kunthar, what would you like in exchange for Jafra? Other than Frolan. He’s out of the question.”

  The man ponders it for a moment. “Well, maybe twenty of your finest guards then.”

  Grak’s anger surges. “Twenty? Have you gone mad? I would sooner send them to be slaughtered in taking her. Which I have half a mind to do if you won’t be reasonable. I demand justice! I demand that you return her to me!”

  Kunthar takes insult. “Demand? What puts you in a position to demand anything? We have the greater numbers. In fact, I demand that you …” He thinks for a moment. “I demand that you dance for me.”

  Now it’s Grak’s turn to be insulted. “What do you take me for? I’m not your Brak, to just fulfill your every whim. Quit stalling, Kunthar. And stop getting in my way. Give me the justice that I’m due!”

  That aggravates the stranger far more than expected. “Getting in your way? It’s you that’s getting in the way, Grak! In the way of my leadership. My tribe is mine to lead how I see fit. I provide benefits to my people, and anyone who joins my tribe receives the same!”

  Dernue whispers something to him, and he whispers in reply.

  Kunthar turns back to Grak. “Alright, maybe not the same benefits. But nearly the same.” He glances at Dernue, who just shrugs and looks away in disagreement. “Well, the same protection at least. More or less.” That statement passes. “So it’s not like I can just give you any of my people without cause. Or without a decent trade.”

  Grak is barely suppressing an outburst now. “Kunthar. I’ll give you one last chance to accept a simple offer. Turn Jafra over immediately or I will take her by force.”

  Kunthar’s face twists with rage, but he restrains himself. The man takes a calming breath, then gestures to his companions. Dernue and the bald man rise while the tea bearer gathers cups and readies his tray.

  Kunthar speaks with a controlled fire. “Try it. Test our strength.” He pauses for a moment. “And if you’d like to apologize, I’ll be waiting at the river. Drinking water at my leisure. Might even hoard some of it.”

  Without another word, they exit the tent. Grak begins to wonder if he should have taken a gentler approach.

  18 - And Those Seeking to Steal What’s Rightfully His

  Grak retains an exclusive type of fury for people who try to take his things. Especially his valuable things. For example, having arrived at the river first, he feels his claim to it is obvious. And given the tribe’s panic, his need for the water is equally evident.

  But far more important is his long overdue justice for Jafra. Grak considers his claim there to have less room for disputation. And far more value. And Kunthar’s threat to steal it, along with the water, is so infuriating that Grak was unable to find any rest last night.

  He rubs his brow and yawns. “I don’t understand how there’s any disagreement on this one.” Grak signals, and the guards stop beating Loren.

  Not such commanding ears after all, eh Loren?

  Brak rushes over to cradle her head. “Sir, she meant no dissension. Please. It’s just that we’ve all seen so much bloodshed lately. Everyone’s on edge. It really doesn’t seem like anyone would want another battle. Especially when the fight has such a potential for loss.”

  Kando nods. “He’s right, Grak. There’s no way around Frolan’s report. We’re outnumbered two to one. The odds just aren’t in our favor.”

  Grak sighs in frustration. “Alright, sure, the numbers don’t look so good. I’ll give you that. But our people have been training longer. And we’ve fought before. In a way, Cordo’s rebellion was a good thing. It prepared us. I doubt they’ve gone through anything similar. We know what to expect, but they’ll be too busy vomiting at the first sight of blood.”

  Grak immediately regrets having brought up the imagery. Memories from that day flood through the council. Many look uncomfortable, even ill.

  Kando shrugs. “Well, that might be true if the whole tribe supported it. But the reality is that most of our people just aren’t willing to fight.”

  Grak turns to the other council members. “Do you all feel this way?”

  Olive Thirteen nods. After a tense moment, the rest do as well.

  Grak rolls his eyes. “Then do you have any other suggestions?”

  Frolan raises a hand. “Sir, perhaps instead of attacking their camp, we could simply send a small team to sneak in and take her. Not as risky that way.”

  Grak nods thoughtfully. “Sure, that might work. But there’s no guarantee. And the strangers would still be around to drink up our limited water supply. I see no other choice. We have to fight them.”

  Kando shakes his head. “That’s another thing, Grak. The tribe doesn’t care enough about Jafra, and we’ve made it clear that the water shortage doesn’t even exist. What else can we use to motivate them? Very few are still willing to follow you to death over a vague sense of danger.

  “Take the Vast Oceaners, for example. We make up a good number of able-bodied fighters, but most of my people are tense. Certainly not in the mood for another battle. Then you have the offshoots. They’re even more on edge. I might be able to gather them under common ideals, but that would be no small task.”

  Grak sighs in frustration. Kando is proving more of a headache than usual tonight. But since Grak can’t risk punishing the man, he’s forced to reason with him. Unfortunately, discussion alone is getting nowhere.

  Grak rubs his brow and takes several calming breaths. After a moment of this, he dons his friendliest face. “Alright, so everyone’s concerned about the plan. I get that. And it just so happens we’re about ready for another break. So, why don’t we all take the opportunity to stretch and relieve ourselves? Think about what I’m proposing, and take some time to calm down. We’ll meet back here in a few moments.”

  The council rises enthusiastically and files outside with haste. Except Kando, that is. He’s pacing slowly with his hands clasped behind his back and his chin turned slightly upward in thought.

  What’s this fool up to? If he thinks he can wait until everyone returns before excusing himself, he’s sadly mistaken.

  Grak tilts his head in fascination.

  Oh my, you’re right, Lago. That is a nice posture. Relaxed, yet confident. Even his nose looks better at that angle.

  Grak strokes his chin thoughtfully. “Commit that posture to memory,” he says. “Might prove useful.”

  Kando pauses. Confusion flashes in his eyes, but quickly resolves into considerable calm.

  He clears his throat. “You know, Grak. I imagine I could be of assistance to you here. And in getting the whole tribe to support your plan.”

  Grak raises an eyebrow. “And how exactly?”

  “Well, the way I see it, the council is simply worried.” Kando’s tone proves remarkably soothing. “They’re concerned about our numbers. And, subsequently, about our chances in battle. Especially against a force so much larger than our own. And it seems to me they’re just looking for confidence.

  “So I believe it would only require one more voice. If just one of us with enough clout were to support you, the rest of the council would follow. And so would the tribe.” He pauses for half a heartbeat. “I can be that voice.”

  Grak’s expression turns to exasperation. “Then why haven’t you done it yet? Must I prod you along? Goodness, man! Speak up the moment they return!”

  Kando smiles. “Good. I’m glad you see how simple the matter is. And how so much of it depends on me.” He pauses for effect. “And, ultimately, how the tribe’s support also depends on me.”

  Grak’s eyes go wide in realization. “What are you after, Kando?”

  The man shrugs. “Nothing. Nothing at all, Grak. I’m simply pointing out how crucial I am to your plan. Just thought you might
appreciate knowing that.”

  Grak is both nervous and upset about this turn of events. “Sounds like you’re threatening me, Kando. And you, of all people, should know I don’t tolerate threats. That offense calls for execution, you know. Remember the Cordo!” He points to the tent decoration.

  Kando’s smile doesn’t fade. “True, you could attempt that. Though I have far too many people in camp who support me. And they’re a loyal bunch—your punishments have beaten that quality deep into their bones. They’d fight for me. Much like Cordo’s people fought for him. And win or lose, you’d be too weak without us. You’d never get Jafra back, and worse still, the tribe would be open to a quick slaughter.”

  Grak considers the point. It seems true enough. “But you’d be even weaker. You need the tribe more than we need you. I have to say, I would have thought you’d come up with something better. This is a pretty poor attempt to steal power.”

  Kando shrugs nonchalantly. “But I’m not looking to take your power. I only want some of my own.”

  Grak raises a cautious eyebrow at the man. After a moment of consideration, he turns to Lago.

  That’s certainly an intriguing concept. What do you think, friend?

  He purses his lips and nods.

  Hmm, I thought so. Seems we’re of the same mind on the matter.

  He gives Lago a warm smile. “As usual, I might add,” he says with a jovial tone.

  Grak turns to Kando. “Go on. We’re listening.”

  Kando shoots a nervous glance at Lago before focusing on Grak again. “I … um … Yes, I simply ask that you declare me the supporting leader. You would retain full power, and I would merely be your second in command.”

  Grak drops a shred of his guard. “So what good does that do for you?”

  Kando shrugs. “Well, not much, really. Or rather, not as much as the good it would do for you.

  “Really, I just want to help. I want to make matters easier on you. And I want the freedom to make decisions without having to worry about the threat of punishment. Decisions I know you would approve of. Like the Hambo decision, for example.

  “Essentially, I would speak for you when you’re unable to. Or when other concerns are too pressing. And then you wouldn’t have to bear the burden all alone.”

  Oh … well … that certainly sounds nice. See, Lago, I always knew Kando was a good fellow. He consistently has my best interests at heart. Good thing I didn’t give in to your paranoid fears about the man, eh?

  Don’t get me wrong, though. You’re a wise fellow, my friend. But sometimes you fail to pick up on the more important things in life. Like this offer, for example. Could be just what I need.

  I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but leading has taken a toll on me recently. Really, between you and me, I’ve even been dreading it of late. Giving him a portion of the burden would certainly relieve some of the pressure. And it would give me more time. Time to take up some new hobbies.

  He gazes ardently at Lago. “Time to spend with you like we’ve been discussing. What do you think?”

  Grak gives his friend an enthusiastic nod. “Yes, I thought you might. Then it’s decided.”

  He turns back to Kando, ignoring the man’s awkward gaze. “Very well. You can have your heart’s desire. I’ll allow you to be my supporting leader.”

  Kando quickly regains composure. “Wonderful,” he says with a slight nod.

  Grak opens his mouth to speak, but stops short at the sound of the other council members mingling just outside. His mind races with nervous thought. There’s still so much to discuss, but so little time.

  He opts for a quick finish. “What about all your offshoots? I need them too.”

  Kando isn’t fazed by that request. “I’ll take care of them. Make the announcement about my new role by nightfall. Do that, and I can guarantee every able-bodied tribe member ready to enact your plan before dawn.”

  The tent flap opens, leaving no time for further consideration. Grak nods his assent.

  Grak traverses the stony riverbank, taking extra care with his footing given the moonless night sky. He pauses to glance at the horizon, and his heart sinks—a faint glow whispers of dawn. The idea was to strike while the strangers slept, and each passing moment lessens that likelihood.

  Grak shakes his head and whispers. “Would have worked too. If Frolan hadn’t gotten us lost in the woods for so long!”

  He looks at Lago with shock. “What’s that supposed to mean? Well, sure it was my idea to go through the woods, but that was a good plan! Would have flanked their whole encampment. They wouldn’t have known what was happening.”

  Several disturbed glances remind him of the need to be quieter. As much as Grak hates their silent reproach, he’s inclined to agree with them. After all, too much noise would alert the strangers far quicker than the light of dawn.

  Grak softens his whisper. “If I could have led us all the way there, I would have. But I don’t know this side of the river. Frolan is the only one who does. And if he had a halfway decent memory, it would have worked wonderfully. What kind of fool can’t remember the way to a camp he just visited the day before?”

  He turns to Lago with a look of indignation. “Well, so what if he’s tired? I’m tired too! I haven’t slept in days!”

  That’s painfully true. And obvious. Though it can’t rightly be said that Grak’s lack of rest stems from an absence of effort. Quite the contrary, in fact. He even made a valiant attempt earlier this evening after the meeting. It simply proved unsuccessful, is all. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw rage, full and perfect.

  That reminds him, and he once again settles into warm thoughts of vengeance. “Mmm. But don’t worry, we’ll sleep soon enough.” Grak allows himself a smile. “Once I have my justice. Once Jafra has answered for her treachery.”

  He turns to Lago. “Hmm? Oh yes. And once Kunthar is dead too. Thank you, friend.”

  Several more troubled glances come his way. Grak replies with a menacing glare, certain that he was quiet enough this time. The visual chastisement does the trick, and all eyes avert instantly.

  He smiles, satisfied with his accomplishment. “Good to know we still wield such power, eh, friend? Strike fear with a glance. You don’t see that with Kando.” His face twists. “Or with Umo.”

  He’s particularly sour with those two at the moment. Once the supporting leader role was announced, Kando immediately freed Umo, ignoring Grak’s objections. And if that wasn’t bad enough, the pair instantly began working together in a secretive and suspicious manner.

  “As though old friends.” He shakes his head. “And neglecting me in the process! As though our friendship means nothing to Kando anymore!”

  Grak spots them up ahead, conversing quietly as they walk. “Not sure I trust those two, Lago. Seems like they’re up to something. Keep an eye on them, would you? Not sure I trust them at all—”

  An abrupt halt ripples through the tribe as they crouch in anticipation. Looking about, Grak quickly identifies the cause: Frolan is holding up a hand and peering across the river.

  Grak follows the man’s line of sight, but a moment of careful scrutiny reveals nothing out of the ordinary. The obvious form of Brownhand looms up from the opposing bank, but that shouldn’t have caught anyone by surprise.

  Although … hmm. Yes, that’s quite interesting. The rock bears an unusual likeness to a fist when viewed from this angle. You don’t supp—?

  Grak gasps and points across the water. “There!” A number of alarmed glares remind him of the need for silence.

  He pulls Lago closer and whispers into his ear. “I saw shapes moving among the trees. I swe—

  “Yes! There they are again! People. A large number of them too. But who? That’s our tribe’s side of the river, but nearly every member above the age of twelve is already here with us. I doubt we left that many behi—”

  Grak shivers at the realization. Unwilling to risk any more noise, he updates Lago with a quick signal. But w
hile he was hoping for some sort of comforting reply from the man, all he receives is a stiff, almost fearful look.

  Though I suppose it isn’t the leader’s place to be comforted, is it, friend? No, it’s my duty to bring comfort.

  Then it’s settled. Grak dons a courageous face and assesses their options. But when nothing sensible comes to mind, he decides to get Frolan’s opinion instead. Scurrying forward, he finds the brute already involved in a quiet conversation with Kando and Umo.

  Grak’s attempt to join in comes louder than he had hoped. “The strangers are on our side of the river! How did they get past us?”

  Kando holds a finger to his lips and speaks in a gentle whisper. “Yes, Grak, they are. Must have crossed while we were lost in the woods. But no matter, we still have the element of surprise. If we can slip away from here quietly, we should be able to cross the river and take them just after sunrise.”

  Grak nods. “Yes. My plan exactly. Let’s get moving then.”

  The three men shoot awkward glances at each other before Kando speaks again. “Say, Grak, I was wondering something. If we’re trying to meet them in battle just across the way there, then perhaps it would be best if you remained here. To command things. And to sound the alarm should they move from that spot.”

  Grak considers the point. “Hmm. I suppose I wouldn’t be out of the fight. If anything, I’d be at the true front, since I’m the one staying to keep an eye on them. So that sounds good. But I’ll need a few guards with me, an—”

  “Yes. Of course. Of course.” Kando nods reassuringly as he pats Grak’s shoulder. “Don’t you worry. I’ll see to everything. Frolan. Umo.” He gestures for them to follow.

  The three men fall back and soundlessly dispense orders. Kando separates nine guards, and the rest silently gather in formation. In all, the process takes no more than a few moments before they set off, moving rapidly, yet quietly, over the stony ground.

  Grak watches with awe as the tribe retreats into the distance. The speed. The agility. The strength. A dreadful force, to be sure.