Numen the Slayer (Magnus Dynasty Saga Book 1)

by Grady P. Brown

  Richard contemplated on Brom’s words before suggesting, “While we gather our forces, gather as much provisions as we can, and reinforce the fortifications in preparation of the coming siege. Robar may have forced us to fight by murdering our kin, but we will fight him on our terms.”

  Nodding, Brom declared, “Then let’s get started!”

  CHAPTER 16

  Later that evening, Numen sat with the Welts around their bonfires. Next to Numen was Jarl Gramba, who watched the festivities with intense anticipation. Throughout the night the Welts’ shamans performed complex rituals while contacting nameless spirits. The wind howled and the fires roared with their chanting. It was a magnificently spiritual experience unlike anything Numen had ever witnessed.

  Amongst the crowd, Numen spotted his new bride. The name of Gramba’s daughter was Naera, which meant “wolf” in the Welt Tongue. Naera was tall, slender, and muscular with long red hair and green eyes. Her face was as flawless and as fair as a marble statue. A gown and headdress made from wolf pelts enveloped her as well as a necklace made from claws and teeth was slung around her neck. Every once in a while, she howled like a wolf as she danced with the other Welts. She was an exotic person for Numen to behold.

  As part of his marriage to Naera, the Welts provided Numen with a collection of wedding gifts made from the Graega’s body. Among these gifts was a large cloak made of the Graega’s pelt that was longer than Numen was tall. One of the prettiest items was a bronze dagger with a leaf-shaped blade and ivory hilt and scabbard. Beside Numen was the Graega’s large skull, which had been decorated with intricate carvings. Numen was wearing two of the remaining gifts, which consisted of an ivory ring with a black stone on his right hand and a livery collar made from the Graega’s claws wrapped around his neck. When the Welts said they were going to give Numen gifts from the Graega’s own body, he thought they were going to give him its organs or worse. He was not expecting such wondrous and exotic treasures.

  Noticing Numen’s fascination, Gramba asked, “Are you enjoying yourself, Monster Slayer?”

  Still transfixed by his situation, Numen answered, “What are they singing about?”

  “About the Gods of this world. You Civil Folk always have to give the Gods names, but we Welts do not. Humans are but mortal creatures. We have no right to go around and give immortal and supreme beings names of our choosing. Therefore, we Welts refer to the Gods by the elements they represent.

  The Fire God, who represents war and courage gave us the Logi to guard the battlefields. The Water God, who represents healing and nourishment gave us the Leviathan to guard the seas. The Wind God, who represents knowledge and wisdom gave us the Arn Eagle to guard the skies. The Earth God, who represents creation and craftsmanship gave us the Jotunn to guard the mountains. Finally, the Light God, who represents the absolute authority of the universe gave us the sun to guard us all.

  However, as much as we worship and cherish these Five Gods the Welts and Civil Folk alike fear a grim prophecy. The False God, the so-called God of Darkness, cursed the world with the Faens and the one destined to lead them against humanity. Some say the False God did this because his brethren did not include him in their pantheon, but whatever his reasons the False God has placed a malice upon this world that may one day awaken.”

  Grinning, Numen noted, “You truly appreciate the Gods, Jarl Gramba.”

  Displaying a knowing smile Gramba explained, “I certainly do because I am more than just a Welt Jarl. I am one of the few Druids left. As you know, Druids are an order of sorcerers who have a direct connection with the Gods themselves.”

  Dismayed, Numen exclaimed, “I thought the Druids were wiped out when the Dark Death swept through the Empire.”

  Pain etched into his features, Gramba lamented, “There are too few of us left. In fact, one Druid is married to a member of the current Imperial Dynasty, House Sylva. However, her loyalties to the Gods are questionable at best. My daughter inherited my magic so I am training my daughter to take up my mantle when the time comes.”

  Curious, Numen asked, “Can you perform magic?”

  His smile returning, Gramba replied, “Oh yes. The Gods granted me my power through my connection with them. I can control the elements, utilize alchemy, communicate with nature, perceive the future, and imbue objects with magical powers of their own. The list of gifts the Gods gave me is long. I even warned my people away from your sword when I sensed its dangerous protective magic. Naera can communicate with nature to the point in which she can control an army of wolves and ravens.”

  Nodding in approval, Numen said, “Very impressive.”

  With aura of pride surrounding him, Gramba looked to the crowd and said, “Aye. You have won quite the bride, Numen of House Magnus. Here she comes now.”

  Naera came to Numen and Gramba and sat with them, barely able to contain her excitement. She glanced at Numen with shy eyes and her cheeks turned as red as her hair. Numen felt his heart flutter as he gazed upon her. Even though they were silent towards one another, Numen and Naera could feel a mysterious connection between them.

  Finally, Naera whispered, “Thank you, Monster Slayer for saving me and my brother. You showed tremendous courage facing that invincible beast.”

  Swallowing hard, Numen murmured, “You’re welcome, Lady Naera.”

  Smiling sheepishly, Naera softly asked, “Why did you save us?”

  Pausing for a moment, Numen shrugged and answered, “I . . . had a younger brother and sister. They were taken from me when Magnus Keep fell. I guess you and your brother reminded me of them. I failed to save them, but I felt like I had a second chance to save someone. Because of that, I felt compelled to protect you.”

  Something lit up in Naera’s emerald eyes as she looked deeply at Numen. The very sight of Naera’s beauty enthralled Numen beyond words as he reached out to hold her delicate hand. Once their hands made contact, Numen felt his heart throb again stronger than before.

  Suddenly, their intimate moment was shattered when another Welt joined them by the fire. Numen recognized him as Naera’s brother. He was a tall and muscular youth who shared Naera’s red hair and green eyes. In addition, the young man was in the process of growing a beard.

  Smiling like a giddy child, Naera’s brother said, “It is a pleasure to officially meet you, Monster Slayer. My name is Hondo. In accordance to our customs, I am both your brother-in-law and servant. At your humble service.”

  Numen could not help but smile at his new brother-in-law’s enthusiasm.

  Reaching out to shake Hondo’s hand, Numen said, “Pleasure to make your acquaintance Hondo, son of Gramba.”

  Eagerly shaking Numen’s hand, Hondo explained, “I am a good fighter and hunter. If there is a battle you want to fight or game you want to hunt, I will take care of it.”

  Nodding in approval, Numen commented, “I greatly appreciate it.”

  “You were so fearless when you faced the Graega. Most warriors and hunters who fought that beast paused or hesitated, but you went straight at it! Even more amazing was that you brought it down with a single blow! My sister and I are more than pleased to be rescued by such a mighty man!”

  Brushing off Hondo’s praise, Numen said, “I’m no mighty man. I ran in there without a plan like a fool. I’m surprised I even survived.”

  Before Hondo could talk further, Gramba announced, “The meat is ready! Here comes our share!”

  A collection of Welt servants came to Numen and company with large bronze trays filled with large quantities of steaming meat. When the trays were placed before him, Numen stared at the meat with wide eyes. The meat’s smoky smell filled his nose and his stomach churned hungrily.

  Curious, Numen asked, “Is this . . . the Graega’s meat?”

  Chuckling, Naera answered, “Aye. Because you were the one who slew it, we saved the best of the feast for you. We cooked it by melting down the fat into oil before boiling the meat in it. Trust me. It is the best. Dig in.”

 
; Unable to restrain himself, Numen reached for a large piece and ravenously sank his teeth into it. The Graega’s meat was dense and gamey yet juicy and tender at the same time. Numen moaned with satisfaction as he processed his hefty food.

  Numen held the piece in the air and declared, “That is the damn best meat I ever had!”

  The Welts cheered with great enthusiasm. Upon seeing how the Welts regarded him, Numen felt a torrent of emotion wash over him as tears formed in his eyes. A few days ago, Numen had lost his family and now gained a new one in exchange. Overwhelmed, Numen basked in the joy of his situation as he looked up at the stars . . .

  CHAPTER 17

  Autem was standing behind a giant pair of doors, dressed in gold, ceremonial robes with a long silver cloak draping from his shoulders. On either side of the doors were Imperial Guards, standing as still as statues. Like the guards, Autem was motionless and stared at the colossal doors with great intensity.

  I have been waiting for this moment for a long time. My incompetent family are gone and House Sylva’s future is secure. Autem thought, grinning slightly.

  Then the two guards moved to pull the giant doors open, revealing the throne room. The vast chamber was crowded with countless members of the nobility and they all looked at Autem with anticipation. At the very end of the throne room was the Imperial Throne itself with a man dressed entirely in white and silver standing next to it.

  Taking a deep breath, Autem slowly made his way down a path that was formed between the crowd. Autem glanced a number of different expressions from the nobles. The more naïve ones displayed hope on their faces while the rest exhibited greed and ambition. Autem recognized a number of the nobles as the ones who helped him overthrow his brother and nephews.

  Eventually, Autem reached the Imperial Throne and got a clear look at the man in white and silver. The stranger was an old man with a gleaming helmet over his cranium, a glittering medallion that was decorated with five gem stones hung around his neck, and he was holding a ceremonial staff.

  Autem nodded briefly to the old man, saying, “Grand Sage.”

  The Grand Sage nodded back and gestured to two servants holding elegantly woven pillows made from purple silk. On one pillow were a gold orb and scepter while the other pillow carried the Imperial Crown. Autem eyed the items with great anticipation.

  The Grand Sage then gestured to the Imperial Throne and Autem obeyed and sat upon it. It was a solid chair that was softened by two cushions; one on the back and one on the bottom. An overwhelming sense of empowerment washed over Autem as he settled on the Imperial Throne. What excited Autem more was that the ceremony was not yet over.

  One of the servants with the pillows offered Autem the orb and scepter while the other servant presented the crown to the Grand Sage. Autem took the orb and scepter, holding them in either hand and sat quietly.

  The Grand Sage stood beside Autem with the crown in his hands and asked, “Autem of House Sylva, do you swear to respect and uphold the laws and customs of the Gradaia Empire? Do you swear to protect and serve the free people of the realm? Do you swear to represent the will of the Five Gods?”

  Without hesitation, Autem answered, “I so swear.”

  Holding the crown over Autem’s head and declared, “I now proclaim you His Imperial Majesty Autem the Third of That Name, Emperor of Gradaia!”

  The Grand Sage then gently placed the crown on Autem’s head and Autem could already feel absolute power coursing through his veins. Autem was surprised by how heavy the crown was, but he brushed the thought away as he basked at his ascension.

  “Long Live the Emperor!” The Grand Sage announced.

  “Long Live the Emperor!” The crowd chanted in unison.

  After those words, Autem let himself spiritually melt into the throne as he contemplated on his future plans . . .

  __ __ __

  An hour later, Autem and the entire court gathered at the great hall of the Imperial Palace. It was a vast chamber that was larger than even the throne room. The far side of the room was occupied by over twenty hearths that churned roaring infernos. There were countless tables that were almost as long as the hall itself and carried a wide array of food. Minstrels played a number of classical tunes while jugglers and acrobats performed various stunts. Overall, Autem and his guests were enjoying the spectacle.

  Autem and his inner circle all sat emperor’s table at the back of the chamber. On his left was Agatha, who was wearing the gold embroidery and robes worthy of an empress, her growing belly bulging under her dress. On Autem’s right was Peter Muur.

  Peter Muur was a gaunt, middle-aged man with graying black hair and a neatly trimmed goatee. A sly grin was etched into his face while an ominous glimmer shone in his dark eyes. Around his neck was his gold livery collar of office.

  Muur leaned towards Autem and whispered, “Congratulations on your ascension, Your Imperial Majesty. After the festivities, what is your first command?”

  Not taking his eyes off the celebration, Autem replied, “People are asking for justice for the murders of my brother and nephews. We already made them think that the so-called Coven are peasants. Therefore, we should choose a village to serve as the scapegoat. Then we will burn the village to the ground and the people will be appeased. Can I count on you, Lord Chancellor?”

  Bowing his head slightly, Peter answered, “I will bring it up at the next Privy Council meeting. We are all at your disposal, Your Imperial Majesty.”

  Autem sneered and murmured, “That is good to hear, Lord Chancellor.”

  Muur’s expression then changed into irritation and he said, “There is something else you must know, Your Imperial Majesty.”

  Raising an eyebrow, Autem asked, “What is it?”

  “King Baal of Umbran claimed that he located the descendants of the True Imperial Dynasty. He wiped them out, but one member escaped. He has no idea where this supposed ‘True Emperor’ went, but he is on the loose in Umbran’s wilderness. Now the ‘True Emperor’s’ relatives are rising in rebellion to seek vengeance for their murdered kin. If word of his supposed claim spreads, I fear that he may spark civil war within Umbran.”

  Scowling, Autem countered, “The so-called ‘True Imperial Dynasty’ died out centuries ago. King Baal is a fool to make such fanciful claims. Besides, he has enough men to quell the rebellion in his lands and this ‘True Emperor’ is all alone with no support. I am not concerned about him.”

  “With respect, Your Imperial Majesty, when the Imperial bloodline was overthrown the only remaining members were Caelum II and his pregnant sister. Even though Caelum was confirmed to be dead, his sister disappeared. Her fate and the fate of her unborn heir were unknown. It is possible, however unlikely, that their descendants may have survived the centuries. Maybe this fugitive and his kin are part of the Imperial bloodline. If they can confirm their legitimacy, they may become a threat to you, Your Imperial Majesty. Even though the odds are against them, if they defeat King Baal they may turn their attention here. What should we do?”

  Shrugging, Autem replied, “As you said, the odds are against them. They are no threat to us. Now let us enjoy this day and consolidate our status.”

  Turning his attention to Agatha, Autem saw her give him a coy wink, twirling a spoon in her fingers. Then Autem sampled some of the food that was present at the table. Taking a sip from his chalice, Autem savored the richly sweet and spicy taste of the hypocras. The steaming, spit-roasted venison was juicy yet had a gummy texture. Afterwards, Autem tasted quiche, which was initially semi-spicy and felt overly cheesy. Overall, the feast was extravagant and full of surprises.

  Agatha attracted Autem’s ear when she asked, “What shall we do after this, darling?”

  Shrugging, Autem answered, “Whatever we want.”

  With those words, Autem and Agatha laughed together as the celebrations continued unabated around them . . .

  CHAPTER 18

  The next morning, Numen prepared to leave for Foxden Castle, but Gramba
, Naera, and Hondo caught him before he could sneak out of the village. Hondo and two other Welts were leading a trio of horses with packed saddles behind them.

  Smiling warmly, Gramba asked, “Did you think you could leave without saying farewell?”

  Shaking his head, Numen countered, “I need to reach my kin at Foxden Castle. This is not your fight. You don’t need to get involved.”

  His gaze becoming icy, Gramba countered, “Nonsense! You are my son-in-law and we are in your debt! Your fights are my fights and the fights of my Clan!”

  Numen was surprised by Gramba’s fierce commitment. Eventually, Numen relented and said, “Very well, Jarl Gramba. Thank you for everything. I also will pay you back someday for your hospitality.”

  “Take my son and daughter with you,” Gramba ordered.

  Surprised, Numen said, “But they are your children! Do you really want to be separate from your children?”

  Shrugging, Gramba explained, “That choice is no longer mine to make. My daughter is your wife and my son is your servant. In accordance with the life debt, wherever you go they go too.”

  Sighing, Numen said, “So be it. Do me a favor though. All of the gifts you gave me at the wedding are priceless treasures. I don’t want to risk having them lost or stolen while I am on the road. Can you please keep them safe until I am?”

  “Anything for you, Son.”

  “Thank you.” Turning to Naera and Hondo, Numen declared, “Let’s go.”

  After those words, Numen, Naera, and Hondo mounted their horses and rode off into the woods as Gramba watched with a hopeful gaze . . .

  __ __ __

  Several days later, Hondo lurked through the depths of the forest with his bow in hand. Several yards away was the camp where Numen and Naera were waiting for him. With the day almost over, Hondo was hoping to hunt some food before they rested for the night.