Darsidian Myths, A Promise Heard

Chapter 10

There were at least twenty spears pointed at Jayden and Gareth. Despite being trapped, Jayden couldn't help but admire how quickly and silently the soldiers had surrounded him and his brother.

From behind the ring of spears a single soldier walked toward the brothers and into the light. Unlike the other soldiers this individual wasn't wearing a gold bracelet on his wrist. His armor also had additional red streaks across his pauldrons, suggesting a higher rank than his companions. "Disarm them," ordered the man.

Another soldier broke away from the circle of spears and removed the brother's weapons. The subordinate then walked over to his superior before handing the items over.

Jayden watched helplessly as his father's sword was taken away. He felt like he was somehow betraying his father by having a stranger handle the blade.

"Here's what's going to happen," said the commanding soldier as he inspected Jayden's sword. "I am going to ask some questions, you will answer them. It's that simple. What are your names?"

Jayden glanced at the spears pointing at him before looking at the man who had spoken. He had no idea who these people were. If he answered their questions he didn't know if they would react in a positive way or not. If there was a time for caution, he was certain this was it. "I'll answer your question," began Jayden, "if you introduce yourself first."

The leader of the soldiers snorted in amusement. "My name is Vince Sarla, and I am the leader of the Borderland patrol."

Jayden glanced at the spears pointing at him once again. "If you're the Borderland patrol, then you must be a lunvarin, correct?"

"I ask again," said Vince, ignoring his prisoner's question, "what are your names?"

"Our names are Jayden and Gareth Varkin," answered Gareth.

Jayden felt a little odd when his brother used Varkin as their family name. Up until now they had used their father's name, Artalla. Perhaps Gareth was using the name just to gain their captor's attention.

"Varkin?" said Vince. "That's quite a claim to make, why should we believe you?"

"Because we have Bardir with us," said Gareth.

Vince remained silent for a moment as he studied the brothers. "You say Bardir is with you, if so, where is he?"

"He's...not in the best condition," said Jayden. "We made certain to hide him before coming here."

"Hide him?" questioned Vince. "I don't suppose you'll tell me where he is then."

"If your men redirect their spears I might," offered Jayden.

Vince stared at the brothers sternly. "Fine, everyone withdraw your weapons, these two aren't going anywhere." In one movement the soldiers surrounding the brothers redirected their spears upward. "You had better know where Bardir is," warned Vince, "otherwise I see no reason to keep either of you alive."

"If you'll allow us," said Jayden, "we'll show you where he is."

"Very well," said Vince. "Lead the way." The fire above everyone went out, causing the entire area to be engulfed in darkness. "Before we go anywhere," continued Vince, "I promise this; if you try to escape, you may find yourselves with a spear protruding from your back."

"We have no reason to run away from lunvarin," stated Gareth.

"Lead on," ordered Vince as he ignored his captive's statement.