Beowulf: Curse of the Dreygurs: A Monster Slayer Book by Brewer Gordon

Author:Brewer, Gordon [Brewer, Gordon]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Thorn Bishop Press
Published: 2016-09-20T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 5

NEW ENEMY

On the same night that the Geats fought for their lives against Verch, King Ida passed through the gates of his castle of Din Guardi near the town of Bamburgh. As he looked upon his home recalling his great victory several years earlier, the old man remembered the first time he passed the stone archway. Now his body ached from the long journey and the constant pains of his illness. The trip had taken longer than normal due to frequent stops which frustrated him. The leader of the Angles slowly slid himself from his mount where he was met by a retainer. The young boy helped steady his king as Ida worked to get his legs to respond, numb from the long ride. The unlikely pair worked their way through the entrance, paying little attention to the large main hall. Other attendants scurried about, unloading and carrying various leather bags and trunks.

The head of the castle guard stepped up to his master. He quickly informed the king about the latest news of the castle as he joined the pair. “My lord, I received your message about Glappa joining the Geats, but we have no news from Appa.”

The frail man nodded, “I understand. Appa went with his brother against the dreygurs. Have Aethelric join me in my chambers.”

The leader of the guards immediately set out to find the king’s third son while the Angle leader and his servant walked down the vaulted hall to the king’s bedchambers. By the time the pair reached the heavy wooden door, Aethelric could be heard rushing down the hallway to greet his father. He followed the king into his room, taking the place of the servant who they sent away.

“Where are my brothers?” he asked.

“They have joined with Beowulf,” said the old man as he nearly collapsed upon the great bed. “Both have decided to be the king upon my departure. When they return, they will bring glory to themselves and the lands of the Angles.”

Aethelric said nothing but his face betrayed his emotions about the dangers his kingdom faced. The brother’s rivalry among the family filled much of their lives; the younger son knew Appa would challenge his brother for the throne when their father died. As he thought about the future problems, he helped his father lay back, stopping briefly while the king began a violent coughing fit. Aethelric covered his father with a thick wool blanket.

“Take heart, my son,” the old man told him, knowing his third son was upset at his brothers. “The Witan will make the decision after my death. The council is made up of wise men. A person of valor and quality will be chosen and, I promise, you are not disadvantaged by staying with me.”

His son gave his father a thin smile. “I will try to remain worthy of your praise. Now rest. I will care for the small matters that drain your strength.”

King Ida closed his eyes and thanked him, telling him he would speak with the council before long to let them know his wishes.

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