In the dungeons of Fatake, a group of refugees from a vast nation known as Lairus had been incarcerated. Their numbers totaled around three thousand, consisting of men, women, and children. Some rode on horseback, others on camels and mules. They had been on the move for at least nine days, traversing dense forests, crossing ravines, and wading through dark streams. Among this multitude were young men, families with husbands, wives, and children, while some had close relations with their parents or siblings. Many carried their possessions and even livestock.
The reason for this exodus was not a choice but rather a consequence of the catastrophic war that had ravaged their homeland of Lairus, resulting in the loss of countless lives and property. The conflict was ignited by rebels who sought to overthrow King Muraisu Borc, believing he ruled unjustly. They assembled an army of two and a half million fighters, honing their skills for the impending war.
The heart of the dispute lay in the feud between King Muraisu and his younger brother, Prince Huraisu. Their differences in character and worldviews fueled the animosity between them. Despite being siblings, they became fierce rivals. King Salmar, their father, had designated Muraisu as his heir, further intensifying the strife. The characteristics of King Salmar, characterized by his benevolence and compassion, were also evident in Muraisu, making him beloved by the people. In stark contrast, Huraisu was known for his cruelty and inhumane actions. His immoral behavior included murder, rape, and theft.
Huraisu’s malevolent actions often led him to seek refuge in the forest, as he knew that severe punishment awaited him if captured. King Salmar’s punishments included brutal floggings and other forms of retribution. While both brothers were formidable fighters, Muraisu outshone Huraisu in courage and skill.
However, when Muraisu committed misdeeds, he, too, faced harsh consequences, such as being suspended by his head and exposed to the elements for twenty-four hours. In spite of such suffering, he persisted in his wrongdoing.
Notably, King Samral was a highly respected figure in the land, known for his remarkable strength and fearlessness. His supernatural abilities, including lifting enormous objects with ease, astonished people. It was a peculiar day when King Samral exhibited jealousy, shedding tears and alarming the inhabitants of the kingdom.
Muraisu and Huraisu, while similar in appearance, were divided by their deeds. They were both born on the same day as twins, the day when their mother passed away.
The passage also highlights King Samral’s incredible abilities, capable of intimidating entire continents, with tales of people fleeing upon encountering him. His legendary strength and unparalleled gifts defined his reign.