hours before, but he was feeling so much better for talking and he was genuinely grateful to the warrior for taking the time to listen. Ben decided to ease his discomfort.
“I’m sorry, Knesh, I’m talking gibberish. Pay no attention to me, I don’t mean it. It’s late, I’m tired and a lot has happened in such a short space of time. It’s a lot to take in for a youngster like me you know. I think it’s all affected me, I didn’t mean what I said. Of course we have to help in any way we can.” Ben stated, trying to contain his emotions. “But what about you? I’ve been speaking a lot about me and my thoughts, I’d like to know more about you. Do you have children, Knesh?”
“Me?” the warrior replied, stunned by the conversation’s sudden change in direction and by the personal and direct nature of the question. “No. I am Gerada Knesh Corian. I am a career soldier, the last in a long line. I did think... I was in love once, long ago. At least I thought I was. But it was not meant to be. I was born to this life, I have devoted it to my King and his family. I have had no time for such things. I have no regrets, Ben. It is the path I chose long ago.”
“Ahh... But I’ve seen how you look at the Princess, as a father would. You’re close aren’t ya?” said Ben.
“Zephany? Yes. I would gladly die for her, and my King. She is amazing. She has real spirit. She has a zest for life and an energyabout her that.... Well, she will be a great Queen. If she is ever given the chance.” Knesh stated, with real sorrow in his voice. “But I do not think she will ever get that chance the way things are. We have to defeat Vantrax first, Ben. No matter how long it takes! I am honour bound to see this thing through to its conclusion, and I mean to. You know, I am glad that you and Jake are here. You have brought us all hope with those stones. I think perhaps, that you do not realise the power of what you have. But even if the worst happens, and we cannot restore the stones, the hope you have both brought to our people already, by your mere presence is.... Well, I for one, thank you for that. You cannot realise how important hope is, until it is gone. And, I should not worry too much about your own importance, Ben. Do not underestimate the power of friendship. There will come a time when... Listen, you must continue with what you are doing, try to always be there for each other, and have faith in one another.”
Ben nodded his head as Knesh’ words brought a lump to his throat. He stared at the hard, chiselled features of the mighty warrior before him. Here was a powerful man who was obviously proven in battle many times over. A leader, who struck fear into the hearts of his enemies. And yet, Ben had heard him speak with remarkable compassion and understanding. He had seen the pride and love on Knesh’ face as he spoke of the young Princess. There were obviously many sides to his personality, and Ben really liked him.
“She may not be a blood relative, but you have a stronger relationship with Zephany than any father I know.” he said, in less than perfect English.
Knesh understood the sentiment nevertheless. “Thank you Ben” he answered, the words having touched him deeply. “Here! I have something for you.” he stated, as he reached down and picked up a brown, cloth shoulder bag that was lying by his side. He passed it to Ben. “I thought you could use this to carry that box of yours. We use them for carrying food when we ride on long journeys, they are pretty useful and that box should fit inside nicely.”
“Oh yes, great. Cheers.” replied Ben gratefully. “That’s perfect. I was beginning to hate lugging the thing around.”
“Cheers?” asked Knesh mystified. “What is this?”
“Oh yes, sorry. It’s err… Slang. It’s just the way we talk sometimes in my world. Well, my part of it anyway. It means, thank you.” said Ben, trying to explain his Midlands twang.
“Sruh. If it means, thank you, then why not just say, thank you?” asked Knesh. “You certainly have some strange ways, Ben. Please, tell me more about