Book 5 - Chapter 36 - Rhino's Decision (1/2)

Rhino, Sandspire’s ultimate warrior, was a man known as much for his arrogance as for his strength. That mighty conceit took a blow when he suffered defeat at the hands of the southern strangers. It was one of the lowest points in his life.

But what he really couldn’t stomach – the fact that ached worst of all – was how that invincible southerner had crumbled before Greenland’s plain-looking representative.

Such a dramatic contrast in power made Rhino finally grasp how insignificant he really was. All of his posturing and conceit was merely a show. He had been the biggest ant in the anthill, only to be stomped on by an elephant.

Although Rhino was somebody in Sandspire, that city was nothing compared to the vastness of the wastes. Out there in the barren expanse, he didn’t even amount to a fart on the wind. Before the truly strong, he was about as threatening as an insect.

Luckily, his hide-like flesh saved him from death, though the defeat was a crushing and bitter one. The wounds it left behind weren’t of his body, but of his spirit. It changed him, so that as he recuperated he made no threats to anyone and kept to himself.

He had seen at last what true power was in this world, he knew he had no right to be so arrogant any longer.

As he came face to face with the crushing realization, an idea started to rumble around in Rhino’s head. It was an idea that got its hooks into him, one he couldn’t let go of. So it was that after a few days he turned that idea into action.

Rhino made a final visit to Sand Viper before setting off. The city’s Governor was a little shocked and unhappy with the sudden change. “You’re preparing to leave?”

The three-meter tall giant of a man had a scar on his chest about the size of a wash basin. When he was well enough to move, Rhino had decided it was time to go.

Sandspire didn’t have many capable men. It was a shame to see him go. Sand Viper’s displeasure was evident on his face. Things were rather unstable in the city as of late, and word was the Three-Eyed Spider was back in the southern wastes. It was only a matter of time before he turned his focus on his former haunts.

Three-Eyed Spider was not a threat Sand Viper could afford to ignore. He must have joined a dangerous northern organization by now.

So there was no question that when – not if – Three-Eyed Spider decided to act, Sandspire would be in for serious trouble. This fact kept Sand Viper up at night. In fact, the only reason he hadn’t abdicated his control over the city already was because of Greenland’s support.

“I’m just here to tell you what I’ve decided. It’s not up for discussion. I’m leaving and no one will convince me to stay.” Rhino was just as stubborn as his namesake. He was steadfast no matter what stood in his way. “I plan to wander the wastelands. Sandspire is too small, and if I stay here for the rest of my life I’ll never learn what the world is really like. I won’t even learn was true strength is. Now I’ve said my piece, and there’s nothing more to it. I don’t think we’ll ever see each other again.”

And that was that. Rhino turned around and left.

Sand Viper couldn’t say he didn’t understand the sentiment. Rhino was an important piece of Sand Viper’s strength, but he wasn’t going to try and compel him to stay. After suffering such a humiliating loss… the mental effects had to be catastrophic for Rhino.

“If you want to leave, I won’t stop you. But if the word is to believe and the southern wilds are stirring, now isn’t the time to go wander aimlessly. Have you thought about where you’ll go?”

Rhino hesitated. He had no answer to give. He’d only decided that it was time to go but had given no thought as to where.

“The wastelands are in crisis. So far as I can see, if you leave without a plan, even a man as strong as you will be taken by the desert sooner rather than later.” A thought occurred to the governor, which he voiced immediately. “I have a recommendation, if you’re willing to try your luck.”

“Where do you suggest,” Rhino asked.

“Greenland!”

Rhino’s ugly face twisted into a dour scowl.

“Greenland has put it out that they’re looking for capable people and have scoured the wastes for two sorts. The first are those with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and the other are the strongest warriors they can find. I heard there have been quite a number of people who’ve flocked to the city already to see if they make the cut. If you make the cut, you’ll immediately have status and a slew of benefits.”

Sand Viper rose to his feet. “Look, it’s no secret that you can’t beat those folks with supernatural powers. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that you’re one hell of a warrior. I know they’ll see how important you are. Why not prove it to them?”

It was the first time Rhino had heard Greenland was recruiting. But was that what he wanted?

“You say you’re leaving Sandspire so you can see what real power is. Well, as far as I know there are only three places where you’ll find your answer; the south, the Elysian lands, and Greenland. Try as you might, I don’t think there’s any way you’re getting into the southern wilds or the Elysian lands.” Sand Viper spoke with certainty. “That leaves only Greenland for you to discover what you’re after.”

The Governor’s words made sense, but Rhino was still uncertain. Greenland had many strong and mysterious people. It was rich, safe, and definitely a fine place to make one’s living.

It wasn’t that he didn’t want to go. He’d insulted Greenland’s unimpressive leader when he’d come to visit so what chance did he have of being accepted? He shared his concerns, to which Sand Viper laughed and assured him it would be alright.