Thranak stood tall, his muscular frame radiating an aura of calm determination. He understood the reaction of those around him, particularly the old man's fear. The ancient barbarian order of rulers permitted one lord to summon all other barbarians under his banner, but only if he could survive the grueling tribulations. The old man dreaded the possibility that Thranak might amass an army powerful enough to threaten him.

"My lord, please reconsider the matter once more," an elder barbarian pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper.

In response, Thranak's fist crashed down on the stone table with a resounding thud. He rose to his full height, placing his hands on the table and leaning forward, his piercing gaze sweeping across the gathered assembly.

"There is nothing to reconsider," he declared, his voice resonating with unwavering resolve. "I will depart today. I shall assemble all the barbarians, crush the travelers, and ensure our people's survival for centuries to come. Anyone who dares to stand in my path will face the wrath of my axe, regardless of who they may be."

Thranak was acutely aware of the enormity of his decision. The barbarian order of rulers had not been called upon for nearly ten centuries. No one had ever managed to survive the trials; all who had attempted met miserable ends.

Sornath, sensing the growing tension, spoke up in an attempt to ease the atmosphere. "Some of our wolf riders have returned with news. The travelers have established a base on the beach. It's well-fortified and heavily guarded. I doubt we can overcome it with our current strength alone."

"I believe my husband is right," Sornath interjected, her voice filled with confidence. "I trust him implicitly. If he says he can do it, then I have no doubt he will succeed."

The old barbarian's eyes narrowed, a frown etching deep lines across his weathered face as he glanced in Thranak's direction. "If you wish to meet your death, so be it. But your mother and wife will remain here," he declared firmly.

Thranak's eyes flashed with anger, the whites taking on a reddish hue. "Father," Sornath began, attempting to intervene, but the old man cut her off.

"It's all or nothing," he growled.

Without another word, the old man stood and left the great hall. It was considered a grave insult to depart before the lord, but he seemed unconcerned with protocol. Thranak, too, appeared unfazed by the breach of etiquette. The old man had always had his own peculiar way of doing things.

"You may all leave," Thranak announced, sinking back into his seat. The assembled barbarians bowed deeply before filing out of the hall. Once they had all departed, Sornath approached her husband, settling herself on his lap.

"What do you plan to do now?" she asked, her fingers idly playing with the fur of his mantle.

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Thranak's voice was low and thoughtful as he replied, "Your father seeks a way to protect himself from me should I succeed, and a means to pressure my people if I fail and die. He's a cunning old devil, your father."

Sornath sighed, exasperation evident in her tone. "I know, but he only wants what's best for me."

Thranak grasped her arms gently, his intense gaze boring into hers. "Can I trust you to look after my mother and my people?"

"As long as I draw breath, no harm will come to them," Sornath vowed solemnly. She bit her lip, drawing a bead of crimson blood. "I want you to be mine entirely, to give me as many heirs as I desire."

A smile played across Thranak's lips as he mirrored her action, allowing his own blood to flow. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, blood and saliva mingling as they sealed their vow through the ancient barbarian ritual. The consequences of breaking such a promise would be dire indeed.

Rising to his feet, Thranak left the great hall, parting ways with Sornath. Before his departure, there were still a few matters to attend to. He held his breath as he entered the forest, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. Soon, the thunderous roar of the waterfall filled his ears.

Thranak waded into the icy water, removing his fur mantle. The cold bit into his skin, causing an involuntary shiver to run through his body. Kneeling beneath the waterfall, he allowed its powerful torrent to hammer against his flesh. It was rare for him to visit this sacred place; not because he lacked faith, but because he doubted that gods of eons past would descend to save one from an opponent's axe. He had always maintained a cautious approach to such matters. However, for the monumental task that lay ahead, he knew his muscles alone would not suffice. To claim he felt no fear or hesitation would be a lie, even to himself.

After several minutes, Thranak emerged from the waters. His mother appeared, draping his fur mantle over his cold, wet body. He smiled, dropping to his knees before her. "I have failed you, Mother. I have failed to protect our family. Kaelis has been..."

"It's alright, my son," his mother soothed, helping him to his feet. "She lives."

Thranak lifted his head, confusion evident in his eyes. How could she be so certain of Kaelis's survival? He didn't believe his mother possessed any special powers; the trauma of their father's death had been a devastating blow to her. Could it be the mystical bond that connected all children to their parents?

"Take this, my son," she said, pressing a small amulet into his hand. It was intricately carved from wood, fashioned into a hexagonal shape adorned with complex tattoos. "I have prayed over it for seven days. It will protect you."

Thranak felt his heart swell with conflicting emotions. On one hand, he was deeply moved by his mother's dedication; the small bruises on her fingers from carving the amulet had yet to heal. On the other, he was consumed by guilt, knowing she had endured seven days beneath the waterfall to create this token of protection. He had barely lasted an hour, and it had felt like torture.

He enveloped his mother in a tight embrace. "I will return, Mother. I promise," he vowed.

Thranak made his way back to the center of the village. "Stay here and protect everyone, Wolf," he murmured into the ear of his loyal companion. He selected a smaller wolf to accompany him on his journey. Wilver, his faithful mount, whined and attempted to follow, but Thranak fixed him with a stern glare. "You will be my eyes here, Wilver. There is no one I trust more than you," he explained.

Urging the smaller wolf forward, Thranak waved farewell to his people and to Sornath before disappearing into the distance with a handful of warriors.

The path ahead would be fraught with challenges, and Thranak couldn't predict how much he might lose along the way. But for his family, for his people, and for himself, he would give it his all. He would assemble the barbarians and face whatever trials lay ahead, no matter the cost.