Hemming was worn out from his escape and sprint from Hellir. His legs ached and he was breathing heavily. His lungs felt rough and salty, having spent the night locked up in the salt jail cells just long enough to become perfectly exposed.
The group successfully reached the cabins, and Sindri stood catching her breath. She glanced over to see Hemming approaching.
"I thought I had lost you for good, but it seems I can't get rid of you no matter how hard I try. Maybe you are as capable as your father Simueal. There might be hope for you yet," she said, breathless.
Hemming was overjoyed to hear his master express joy at his well-being and even more thrilled to learn that he had impressed her enough to potentially spare his life in the future. As the uncertainty of the future loomed, it was time for everyone to prepare for the worst. Sindri, looking to discuss important matters, found Zarda and Asger engaged in conversation. She quickly approached her lord's side and overheard them discussing the same concerns she had.
"War is approaching your kingdom soon, though the exact timing is unknown. My master has forewarned me of this and I will assist in readying your subjects for battle. However, he also instructed me to not stay and fight, but to flee on the eve of battle. I understand this may not be the news you were hoping for, but I must heed my creator's words. I hope you can understand and respect this," Zarda informed.
Asger expressed gratitude towards him, acknowledging the help he was able to provide within the limits set.
"I appreciate your assistance, despite the circumstances. It appears that war is inevitable for us all, yet for reasons unknown, you must return to your homeland. We still have unresolved issues with the humans and I would like to be better prepared this time. Last time they caught us off guard and we suffered significant losses. I pray that Odin favors us in battle and that we emerge victorious," Asger declared.
Sindri was not pleased with the news. "WHAT! You're not staying to fight, after all my kingdom has done for you since you arrived. The more allies we have, the better our chances will be. Does your master speak to Odin as I do? It appears they have exchanged the same information, yet neither can give us a specific time for war," replied Sindri defensively.
Zarda was perplexed by Lady Sindri's distress. It wasn't like he had entered their kingdom demanding food or shelter. He gave her a sympathetic look, grateful that Lord Asger had agreed to their terms. Asger comforted his bride and assured her all would work itself out.
"First things first, my top priority number is ensuring that your people are prepared for any surprises. I have battled against these monsters in the past, and I know that humans are relentless and cunning. We cannot afford to fight fair because our enemies certainly won't. I will do my best to train your kingdom, but ultimately it will be up to Havardr. Spread the word to all those living in the realm's sanctuaries we need them to come here," Zarda instructed.
Zarda could only assist those who were willing to accept his help, knowing that not everyone would be open to training or learning from him. Some individuals may not even recognize the potential danger, mistakenly believing that they were invulnerable with the protection of the runes. After the recent unexpected events that the woodland creatures witnessed, one would expect them to eagerly volunteer without any doubts. The nobles quickly dispatched their servants to send urgent messages to each kingdom in sanctuary – Hellir, Arvid, and Fljot. They efficiently prepared recruitment letters for each kingdom.
"I have an idea, my lord," proposed Sindri.
"What if we use the crystals for power? Perhaps I can convince Nova to fight on our side."
Asger shook his head at her suggestion.
"Zarda has a plan. Once we get the leaders here from the other kingdoms, we will proceed with further actions. Don't worry yourself about it," he replied.
Sindri was infuriated by his response.
"Are you kidding me? Of course I will worry about it. You always push me out of matters like these, just like yesterday and now the battle that Odin himself warned me about. How could you dismiss me so easily?" scowled the queen.
"How can you be sure his plan will succeed? I can't handle this; I need to go to the temple and pray," she exclaimed.
Sindri stormed off in a fit of anger, clearly in need of some time alone to calm down. To escape her thoughts, she turned to prayer in the temple where she could use a bit of cannabis to relax. Asger observed her departure, knowing it was best to let her have her space in their argument. He trusted that their plan would ultimately succeed and she would come around. He returned to his throne room and instructed Hemmings to gather his warriors for a meeting.
Lord Asger listened as the ravens took flight over the trees, carrying his important letters. "I hope we receive a response soon," he thought. He paced back and forth in front of his throne, his hand on his chin, contemplating the strength of the sanctuary. Before long, Zarda and a group of his strongest fighters - Osborn, Dane, Vidar, Randolf, Alvis, Vulpix, and Oridian - approached him.
He invited them to sit down at a long wooden table crafted from mahogany.
Asger went back to pacing as he waited for his men. Zarda and the others fell silent as they surveyed the throne room. It was an unconventional choice for important meetings, located inside a dilapidated building where half the walls had crumbled to rubble. Some areas had missing walls, while green moss covered the remaining sections. The roof was partial, offering a view of the open sky, and the flooring consisted of old, worn stone slabs. While Zarda had seen ornate thrones in the past, the one in this room was carved from rock and adorned with the same moss as the walls. The air was damp and crisp, filled with the sounds of birds. Candle stands lined the walls, their wicks burning brightly upon melted wax. Among the scene, Zarda spotted a familiar object - a wooden gavel.
"This place gives me the creeps, mate" whispered Osborn
The rest of them concurred that it seemed like a location steeped in witchcraft, promising everlasting life.
Asger said, "Where is everybody?" asked Dane, the grey wolf.
"They are en route, and once they reach us, we can begin the meeting. It may take hours or even days for counsel from Hellir, Arvid, or Fljot to arrive."
The sound of approaching subjects could be heard by Asger, the crunching of leaf litter growing louder. He soon saw and heard his men more clearly. Watching as his best warriors approached - the same ones who had joined him in the Hellir rescue - they were accompanied by three new recruits, bringing their group to a total of eight. Asger shook hands with each of his warriors in turn. First, he greeted Hamish the Bison, followed by Ayaan the lynx who walked alongside his friend Luca the coyote. Jaxon the fox entered next, followed by Montgomery the Wolverine. Then came the two brother hawks, Harper and Gille. Bringing up the rear was Frangan the skunk. They quickly took their seats and joined Zarda and his group. The table was crowded and everyone was eager to put their plans into action.
"Warriors, I present to you Zarda and his company. Zarda sought sanctuary with us a few days ago, and now he will share with us ways to protect our sanctuary. He may offer assistance with our runes, and we hope our god will favor us this time. Zarda, my warriors in Havardrand are the finest, and more will join us soon. I apologize for those who did not show you favoritism. Your actions in protecting yourself were impressive, and Erling deserved everybit of it. Let us hope Haldor and Brynjar come with apologies. Havardr warriors will not turn on you - they will give you their full attention. We must learn how you defeated the humans and what to avoid. The floor is yours, Zarda," stated Lord Asger.
Zarda embraced the warm welcome, rising from his seat to address the group.
"Zarda embraced the warm welcome, rising from his seat to address the group. "Greetings, gentlemen. It has been many moons since I last battled against the humans, yet memories of that fateful day still haunt me. My loyal men stood by my side, equipped with gifts bestowed upon us by the creator."
Zarda took a moment to reflect on the day of battle. The sounds of his friends screaming and giving orders, the loud noises of machinery firing off and soaring overhead echoed in his mind. He witnessed his brother Meeku in a new light, observing the animal kings using their unique abilities to triumph. Unfortunately, he also witnessed his friend Slash taking his final breath, causing his eyes to well up with tears. Despite the heartbreak, Zarda quickly composed himself.
"I may not be one for sentimentality, but in the heat of battle, even the strongest of men or beasts can find themselves brought to tears. These humans are ruthless and will stop at nothing to defeat their enemies, using machines and artillery to overpower them. What saved me and my comrades was the power bestowed upon us by our God. The staff I carry with me symbolizes this divine gift, combining my own abilities with his strength. Those who do not respect and follow him will not receive his aid in times of need. Instead, they are left vulnerable to the destruction brought by the enemy. My suggestion is simple - turn away from dark magic and false gods and embrace the power of the Creator. Only then can true victory be achieved. Alternatively, take measures to protect your forest and prevent it from being destroyed by the enemy's machines. With the Elohim on your side, success is guaranteed. Your gods may be fallible, but the Master I serve is eternal and all-powerful. Trust in him, and victory will be assured. The choice is yours, Lord Asger," Zarda explained.
He glanced at the varied faces showing different expressions, some positive and some negative. he decided to speak up once more.
"May I also point out, Your gods are constrained, even by mere objects like carved runes on your forest trees. All it takes is for humans to arrive with machines to easily uproot and mow them down, leaving your defense and supposed gods vulnerable. My master is eternal and omnipresent. Even if they burn the forest down, what is your alternative plan if you refuse to consider plan A, as there is never a plan C in my mindset." He stated.
He felt content with his contribution to the group and settled back comfortably in his chair. Lord Asger's face never changed its expression, it remained solemn and serious.
"Why do you freely share your god when there are so many of ours who watch over us for various reasons? Surely, one of them could protect us in battle. How can one God protect everyone in different times, places, and circumstances?" Asger asked with curiosity.
Zarda struggled to find words to explain his answer, but he knew he could explain through action. He had hoped the recent blasting of Erling away was the perfect sign they needed to believe.
"Remind him, Zarda," the creator interrupted suddenly.
Zarda jumped in his chair, surprising his comrades next to him.
"Are you okay, boss?" Dane asked, puzzled by his leader.
Zarda nodded and reassured them that he was okay.
"I'm fine, just a little startled for a moment. Nothing to worry about," he replied.
""Can you remember any details about the attack on Erling right before I blasted him?" Zarda inquired.
Asger carefully considered his thoughts before responding.
"I recall a mysterious wind passing through us and enveloping you, followed by a shift in power in your eyes before the purple blast struck Erling. You didn't say a word or offer a prayer, yet such authority emanated from you and your staff. Is that the power of your god?"
Zarda smiled, even now he knew his creator was at work, he shook his head yes.
"Yes, it is true. He has always been by my side every day. He won't force himself on you or beg, but he is ready to care for you and fight for you if you let him. The choice is yours, but now you know the undeniable power of my Elohim," Zarda responded.
Asger questioned, "I am certain he is God, and my men will follow my commands because they trust me. I am not concerned about myself accepting your god, but my queen may present challenges. She may not be willing to join us. I will attempt to persuade her, but in terms of battle, I have faith in you after recent events. How can my warriors embrace your master and his power?'"
"I don't have the right answer to that. I'm still trying to figure out females myself. I have two, but neither are here with me. I can't help you in that area, sorry my Lord," Zarda replied humorously.
Zarda responded, "Your warriors must simply believe and ask him to be their master. However, they must also give up your traditions of sacrifice and any other pagan activities. If they don't, he cannot dwell among them and he will not. It is up to him to decide what to do after they fully accept him, not any of us."
Asger nodded in understanding of the requirements, then turned to his warriors with a pleading look in his eyes.
Asger asked, "Is there anyone willing to dedicate your lives to the God of all, whom Zarda considers as the master?"
"I am here Zarda, I am aware of those who will welcome me and those who doubt. Find peace in knowing that you have fulfilled your purpose here admirably. I appreciate your obedience. I will show favor to those who embrace me. My goal is to prosper and safeguard a significant portion of Havardr, though there will be some who perish because they reject my protection. It's not that I am unable to protect them, but rather that they choose not to accept it. Farewell once more Zarda. I am always available if you require assistance," Elohim responded.
Hamish was the first to lift his battle axe and place it on the table.
Hamish declared, "I am willing to give up my old life to follow the God of all. I pledge to serve you, my lord, by serving the most high."
Zarda was overjoyed and at peace with what the master had revealed to him. Several others also pledged to embrace Zarda's God as their own and dedicate their lives to guarding the King of Havardr and the surrounding home. Ayaan, the lynx, was the first to set down his spear, followed by his friend Luca, the coyote, who placed his bow on the table. The final individual to relinquish his life and weapon was Gille, the red-tailed hawk.
"I refuse to submit to a god that I cannot control! My Lord, what strategies do we have for the upcoming battle?" questioned Montgomery the Wolverine, his voice tinged with a growl.
"Those of you who choose not to follow Zarda's God are welcome to serve in my kingdom as usual. However, I believe Zarda is correct in warning us about the threat of humans destroying our rune defenses. We will need archers to defend from above and strong warriors to protect us on the ground. Those who are swift and agile will be positioned at the back to help lead the women and children to safety if needed. The rest of us will fight to the death if necessary. Whether you agree with my plans or not, I do not care. I would have liked for you and your people to stay, Zarda, but I will not stand in the way of your return home." Said Asger.
"Zarda, Alvis, and I have already discussed our plans before this meeting. I wanted to inform you that a few of us intend to remain behind and establish a settlement beyond Havardr's borders. We believe that staying in our own territory is the best decision for the safety of our young ones. However, you are always welcome to visit, as is Lord Asger. We simply feel that returning with you to your homeland would leave us vulnerable, just as you have felt in ours," explained Vidar the Bear.
Zarda was shocked to hear their plans, but understanding.
Zarda inquired, "Who else has chosen to stay so I can send you all together to start settling into your new homestead. Its better to head out now than wait till later and the road becomes dangerous?"
Vidar coughed to clear his throat, then proceeded to list all the individuals who had chosen to start anew in their original environment.
"I, along with Alvis, Bjorn, Draugr, Wrena, and Egil the beavers, k'nani, stenifer, Lysabel, and all the young ones - Bria, Jaswyn, Nyrim, and Sigge. We haven't heard from Irabel, who hasn't returned from Fljot. However, I know that those who are here, Osborn,Dane, Oridian, Vulpix, Randolf along with Pipsie and Emeryn, have chosen to follow you. We wish you the best and hope you find a safe way back to your country," Vidar said.
"Excellent, it appears that I have a strong crew to help me find my way back home. Vidar, I wish you and your new community all the best in your future endeavors. I look forward to returning with my queen and child by my side next time." Zarda exclaimed enthusiastically.
After successfully wrapping up the battle meeting, Asger felt content and eager to prepare his warriors for what lay ahead. The next challenge was getting the other kingdoms up to par. Asger sent the group of meetings away and went to join his bride, who was waiting for him outside their bed chambers. Her mood had noticeably improved since earlier in the day.