Chapter 149: High King of Ireland
Stone ceiling, stone walls, and cool temperatures. The High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, sat with grace. His Highness came from a long line of High Kings, or so legends claim. In reality, there was no such justification or lineage. Modern historians declared the stories of a long, everlasting dynasty as fabrications.
However, if there was a man that was allowed to take up the mantle of High King, then it would be Brian Boru. His rule was disputed many times. Not everyone acknowledged his worth and law, yet nonetheless, when the word High King entered the academic sphere it was always Brian Boru that came to the forefront.
He was a boy that grew up with war. A boy that went from being one of twelve sons to the dominator of the land. He mastered the battle-axe. He avenged his brothers. He learned to read and conduct politics. He was indisputably Ireland’s greatest king.
Now he was old.
Even now Kazi could not see his level and could feel his regal vigour.
"Warriors from the world beyond." High King Brian’s voice echoed through the throne room. "I am the High King of Éire. I am Brian Boru, the divine messenger that seeks your aid."
Several knights were by the king’s side. Closest to the king was Marchad, who Kazi identified as Brian’s son. There was Toirdelbach, a younger man that he recognized as a grandson. Máel Sechnail, Mael Ruanaidh Ua hEidhin, and Tadhg Ua Cellaigh, all names listed within Irish literature describing the battle of Clontarf. Some of them were kings yet all of them were important.
"Our enemies are great in number. We have been fighting for years and now an alliance has come up against us of the Éire: the King of Dublin Sigtrygg Silkbeard; Máel Mórda mac Murchada, King of Leinster; and a Viking army from abroad led by Sigurd of Orkney and Brodir of Mann."
"We can also surmise that the enemy has also summoned warriors from other worlds." Murchad mac Briain stepped forward with a hardened face and two swords at his waist. "We already have over five thousand strong men. Now, tell me, who will join us!? Who among you will help protect our lands from these invaders!?"