Episode 2

Ryhim stands and begins forward again.

"Big man. We'll make it into the forest, I just need you to stay with me a while longer."

Thorn looks over the place where the arrow is protruding from the Dannein's body. He is no medic, but he has seen them before on the field of battle, even recently, and he has an idea of the steps to follow.

"I wish Iasu were here," he mutters as he puts pressure on the wound.

Simush watches them slowly close the distance. They are making surprisingly good progress. He has been here before. Playing both sides of several Dashnishi-Bishtu conflicts over the years, he has denied entry into Jara Hili against more times than he can count. And those that have entered, he has hunted down like animals. He knows the transition is drawing near.

Simush glances up at his range finder, clucks his tongue as it flies dangerously low, almost within range of a javelin throw. Another arrow streaks out of the treeline and across the flood plain. Then he mounts his horse and prepares to reposition.

Simush whispers soothing words to the horse in Hechesi. How can he rule if he can't master a damn horse?!

Retrieve the treasure. That is the task entrusted to him. It is what is right, but it is also what is prudent. A show of competence and power such as this will be a perfect display to show his father that Simush is a perfect Victor, undisputed in all measures. Such a bold move will cast Simush in the perfect light for all to see, as a Champion, as a hero who takes matters in his own hands and forges his own destiny.

Kill these foreigners. Bring his mother back the treasure. And then Simush can have the joy of waiting for the arrival of his father to assume power in Heshba. When he sees Simush, he will be well pleased and shower him with the wealth, privilege, and power that he deserves. He will likely be crowned a Nasi before the winter. In the years to come, a king. In his middle age - sitting on the throne over a vast empire.

But first, the horse.