Legends: The Knight of Helm (#1)

Chapter 44

Cladius looked up the mountain. Lennix paused as their men got ready for battle. Tents were set, they could see the clouds dark all around. Lighting crackled from the peak, yet no rain poured from the sky. Cladius looked at Lennix, who spoke with Nerus. It was easy to know that they not only enjoyed their rivalry, but had become quick friends, they argued strategy, in heated debate. Cladius smirked. He moved on, helping others set their tents in the deathly mountains. It took three days of travel; Lennix had known not only the safest paths, but the warmest areas of the mount. He spoke of the time that he was commanded to avoid the practicality of the mountain, or be a weak male figure.

It took about an hour for the forces to be situated. Cladius glanced over the mountain peak; he could see the beauty of the earth. He smiled, knowing that this could be his last day. Night had finally set, when he had chosen a stone to stand on and gaze. He knew that no matter what, beyond Helm, even the gods, that he would save Almorah. He would protect her at all cost. Zelstine felt like home, but His heart wasn't there, it was with Almorah.

"You think of the girl." Nerus asked.

"I do, she was but a girl two years ago. To think this journey would take so long, oh and so grueling." Cladius scoffed at himself, "She was but in her ninetieth summer when we met. She hasn't even appeared to age a day."

Nerus smiled, "She will be rescued, my lord. If not plausible by your hand, then by mine, I assure you."

Cladius placed his hand on Nerus, "Thank you, master. It's been while sense I have called you that, but Nerus, you deserve my respect. I'm grateful for all your many lessons, and your dedication."

"Half the time, I didn't have time to train you, because I was working with Volohs, you two boys were never supposed to meet, so, I left you in Riggers hands most days."

"That explains a lot, to be honest, Nerus. It explains much. I got bored with him. Though I must say, I miss the man; his reassuring hand would be a comfort about now."

"Indeed, he was a good man, he was my best friend."

"Say, Nerus, what will you do after we win this war?" Cladius pulled his eyes from the view.

"I don't know. War is all I know, perhaps I will be more of a political figure, and it's hard to say."

"After this, I will finally be able to rest, at least for a day or two. I plan to ask for Almorah's hand. At this point you're the closest thing to her father." Cladius spoke.

Nerus was stunned, "Are you asking for my blessing?"

"I am, indeed."

"I'm humbled, but it's not mine to give. I wish you two the best luck."

Cladius chuckled, "Well, I guess that's good enough."

"You're a great man Cladius, you are honorable and strong. I told you many times before, that you had the ability to surpass me as a knight, and you have, you are the greatest knight known to Helm, and soon to be the greatest king. Though I must say, it is hard to swallow, that you, of all people, are the God of the Sun."

"It's still hard for me to swallow as well." Cladius replied, "Simply consider me your friend. Move on past formality. You, of all people, deserve that."

"I appreciate that, Cladius."

Cladius nodded, as they continued to chat, into the darkness of night. Cladius's heart was heavy the whole night. He wanted to just go after Almorah, but he couldn't or he would risk killing everyone on this mountain top. He needed to be patient, even if it was killing him inside.

Slowly night became day and Cladius wasn't able to receive any sleep. He had the woman of his dream on his mind of the midnight sky's rule. He left his war tent as he took in the morning breeze, he closed his eyes for a second, stretching about. He looked around, finding Nerus, Lennix, and the Emperor of Inger talking among themselves.