November 10, 2020 • 39 mins
Imagine Game of Thrones, but Neanderthals never died off
It’s 1107, and the once-great Neanderthal empire is no more, laid waste by the dark Sapien king, Isaac, the same bastard who slaughtered the Thal queen’s young heirs. A brutal reversal of medieval power forged in blood and fueled by Sap ingenuity.
But one babe escaped the mad king’s wrath.
Raised the son of a simple Thal herder, Maralek’s a rough lad with the ferocious pride and temper of his ruined people, a scorn for rules and rulers, and less than a little creativity in his thick skull. In a word, your average Neanderthal.
And life’s livable, until King Isaac resumes his bloodthirsty crusade, and Maralek’s forced into slaving shackles. Then, a rowdy caravan, a mysterious gypsy, a whispered prophecy… A whirlwind of devastation and war as his master is murdered, his fate unwoven, and his world ripped asunder in an epic battle to end all.
Neanderthal King is a historic epic YA fantasy by renowned science fiction and fantasy author, Matt Ward, that features savage twists and darker secrets, raging kings and enslaved heirs, and an audaciously ambitious coming of age quest set in an alternative medieval Europe. If you love Brandon Sanderson, Ursula le Guin, or Robin Hobb, or explosive high and low fantasy classics like Lord of the Rings, the Kingkiller Chronicles, and the Earthsea Cycle, you’ll love this heroic historical tale.
For more information, to purchase the complete audio adventure or to download the entire technothriller free with a free trial of Audible, visit neanderthalking.com
--
Want to follow along with Maralek's adventure? For a limited time, grab your FREE illustrated map of Tharkal and the six kingdoms of Sapdom by visiting mattwardwrites.com/map.
--
More information on the author at mattwardwrites.com.
It’s 1107, and the once-great Neanderthal empire is no more, laid waste by the dark Sapien king, Isaac, the same bastard who slaughtered the Thal queen’s young heirs. A brutal reversal of medieval power forged in blood and fueled by Sap ingenuity.
But one babe escaped the mad king’s wrath.
Raised the son of a simple Thal herder, Maralek’s a rough lad with the ferocious pride and temper of his ruined people, a scorn for rules and rulers, and less than a little creativity in his thick skull. In a word, your average Neanderthal.
And life’s livable, until King Isaac resumes his bloodthirsty crusade, and Maralek’s forced into slaving shackles. Then, a rowdy caravan, a mysterious gypsy, a whispered prophecy… A whirlwind of devastation and war as his master is murdered, his fate unwoven, and his world ripped asunder in an epic battle to end all.
Neanderthal King is a historic epic YA fantasy by renowned science fiction and fantasy author, Matt Ward, that features savage twists and darker secrets, raging kings and enslaved heirs, and an audaciously ambitious coming of age quest set in an alternative medieval Europe. If you love Brandon Sanderson, Ursula le Guin, or Robin Hobb, or explosive high and low fantasy classics like Lord of the Rings, the Kingkiller Chronicles, and the Earthsea Cycle, you’ll love this heroic historical tale.
For more information, to purchase the complete audio adventure or to download the entire technothriller free with a free trial of Audible, visit neanderthalking.com
--
Want to follow along with Maralek's adventure? For a limited time, grab your FREE illustrated map of Tharkal and the six kingdoms of Sapdom by visiting mattwardwrites.com/map.
--
More information on the author at mattwardwrites.com.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Welcome to the Disruptors, the podcastabout the future of all of us,
where we look at the technologies,trends, and societal norms shaping our collective
future. Hear the world's top mindsshare their insights and predictions on the convergence,
direction and ethics of exponential technologies transforminglike as we know it. You
can learn more and stay up todate at Disruptors dot fm. Merimani Press
(00:27):
presents Neanderthal King by Matt Ward.More information on the author at matt Wardwrights
dot com. You can purchase NeanderthalKing in its entirety or download the entire
audio masterpiece free with a free trialof Audible at Neanderthal King dot com.
(00:51):
Want to follow along with Merrileck's adventurefor a limited time, grab your free
illustrated map of Tackle and the sixKingdom of Saptom by visiting a matt Wardwrights
dot com slash map. Again,that's m A T T W A R
D W R I TS dot comslash map. But now let's get on
(01:15):
with the adventure. A third asthe door shuttered and the bolt shuttered behind
him, locked in no escape.After an awkward silence of uncertainty, Odani
said, what's your story? Thoughtabout saying nothing, but heck, we
(01:37):
had time, why not. Itook a seat alongside my fellow captives and
told them everything. When I finished, she sighed, sounds about right same
here, but married too, Thankthe gods, we weren't blessed with children.
Tajek still hadn't said anything, didn'tseem about to, so I nodded
(02:00):
his way. What about you?He shrugged, mountainous shoulders, smith's shoulders
must have run as smithy back home. There's nothing left for me, he
sighed. They killed my clan butspared me. Said I was the only
one worth lugging to market. Apain still felt over us until Odanic broke
(02:27):
the emptiness. What do you knowabout this? William Fellow seemed a good
master, But I know what youmean. I gave a quick accounting of
what he told me, which causeda Tajek to stand and start pacing ships
water. He fidgeted with his trousers. Could a mighty man be so feared
(02:51):
of water? Seemed impossible? Whata winny shite. But we'd be sleeping
together in the same room, andhe could throttle me in my sleep.
So I said nothing as he stumbledinto his odd tail to Jack was the
youngest of eight, the runt andthe brunt of constant treachery and beating.
(03:14):
He'd outgrown that whipping his clan inrecent passings before the bloody SAPs came.
But I'll never forget what that bastardMachaic did. Left me in that well
for two days. His fists clenchedas he shivered and looked away. Sounded
funny, to be honest, allright, good jest, but I kept
(03:38):
my mouth shut. O'danick was justgetting into her people's telling of the Fiery
Split when there was a knock atthe door supper. The barrier opened and
William appeared food. A roaring chorusfrom my belly as we clattered downstairs,
(03:58):
A wave of relief as we steppedoff that rickety last step onto the busy
tavern first floor, dancing shadows onthe faces of the seedy patrons as William
led us pass the wench to adoor to the left, where a jelly
roll of a Sap woman hunched overa long table, greeted us. Grab
(04:18):
a bowl, a spoon and aslice. We did, and she ladled
thick chunks into our bowls. Halfstarved, I poured boiling broth into my
mouth. Incredible. O'danick did thesame as I gulped greedily at the steaming
pottage. And William grabbed a chunkof two day rye and dipped the rock
(04:43):
in his stew. Tajek stole twoextra slices while the cook droned on about
her pregnant sister didn't notice a thing, so o'danick and I pocketed cheese as
well. William's eyes twinkled, buthe said nothing. Soon we were in
the dining hall, deep in conversationbowls, long empty minds to ourselves,
(05:06):
when a pair of sap roffs satnext to William and started politicing from the
south somewhere. They'd come with theDark King's army to tame the tall of
the Thark Hall. The last raidhad been good to them. The try
tankard slurry every eighth word, hardeyes and tiny foras looking serious as can
(05:30):
be, like most SAPs, whereyour folk headed, The accented one asked,
in a voice like he'd swallowed beershine a dawa. William said,
by way of boot, you fellows, the scrawny whip nodded a glare,
Isaac's are going northeast to avenge hisdead mother, unifying Tarkle supposed to be
(05:57):
good looting up yonder. We coulduse a couple of brooches like this lot.
He gestured at us and spilled moreof his ale. I'm sure you
could, William said, with asmile, but business calls boats don't guard
themselves with these damned African pirates,and Vikilander's scoundrels think they own the seas.
(06:20):
A touch of fire flashed William's face. The drunk shrugged and whistled to
the bar wench for more ale.We left before things got too wild.
Another group of SAPs in the cornerhad tossed us more than a few dirty
looks. We slept that night inour room and William in his, because,
(06:41):
as he said, I'm not sodaft as to sleep with you lot.
Unchained fast asleep when my stomach's basmed. Moments later, standing panting,
what the abdomen clenching, bum tightening? I was going to be sick,
slashing evil in my boughs as Ishuffled to the clay chamber pot an animal
(07:06):
groan made someone stir didn't care,bloody karma. My stomach wheeled. I
yanked the belt from my trousers andbent as my inn its blue reeking filth
hammered my nose, disgusting, Ahorrible kind of awful that felt so much
better. Tajek rolled over, seizedhis stomach. I ain't feel so he
(07:32):
sprang and shoved me off the heapingmess. It was a gruesome night.
Why did I try the God's damnedbread? By morn we were earthing tired
but ready to leave. William unlatchedour door mighty early, but I hadn't
heard a cock crow. Let's geton with hey choked back a cough.
(07:57):
Wat's that bloody assing smell. Wehurried out of the shiite ruined room and
carried his leather sacks downstairs to afree table while William had a word with
the owner. After a quick breakfastloaf for William and watered down ale for
us, we set off. Thestreets were quieter than usual, many a
(08:18):
storekeeper setting up shops, haggling andfriendly insults. Little else. It was
nice, relaxing, but got worseas port came into sight. Stank of
the day's catch. Tajek stopped deadwhen he saw the lapping waves, and
o'danick laughed. We came to asquare off the port's right side, where
(08:41):
a small crowd of SAPs had gathered, and some of these folks truly were
small, barely to shoulders. Williamstrode to a tanned bear of a man
with shaggy black curls, a roughtunic, and hard green eyes and offered
a hand. Must be the vanleader. A few words and William turned
to us. We'll be riding withthis lot as far as boot then born
(09:07):
will bring us to a dawa.It's a long trip. A new lot
will earn your keep. Joseph willgive orders. I'll be back of the
caravan with the landed lot. They'llneed help loading whinnies and carting and such.
He left for a group so gilded. Three of the men rivaled any
woman with child. I've seen belly'sstretching, fine silk revolting. Joseph waved
(09:35):
us over, introduced himself and outlinedthe plan to Jack and I would load
crates. While o'danick watched over Sapladies. Her fiery eyes blazed, but
she said nothing as to Jeck andI joined a procession of men heaving salted
fish, barrels of ale, andall kinds of pelts onto the waiting carts
and wagons. A skinny git ofa man through a large crate at me.
(10:00):
Without warning, I caught it andplaced it on the nearest cart.
An elevated lip on the edge lockedit in place. It was brilliant.
Kajak, look at this, SAPslaughed as I pointed out the crafty trick.
The big man shrugged and went backto hoisting crates. As I admired
the handiwork made such sense. Whyhadn't I ever thought of that? The
(10:26):
SAPs chuckled as I pushed the thoughtaside as I grabbed another box. Soon
everything was ready. Our bloated caravanof fifty some odd traders, slaves and
stragglers left before the sun's midday peakand made good time. We were out
(10:46):
of the city before our shadows outpacedus. To Jack and I pulling heavy
carts along jouncing roads, still muchbetter than the ones back home home.
Why was I thinking of home?A strange, eerie reverence, but why
it was gone forever, no longerrelevant, an unfortunate slip up on a
(11:11):
stone broke my reverie. Which wayyou're going, Joseph barked as I hurried
to right myself. We stopped tochange carters. Several hours later. They
had us Tall carry the brunt ofthe load. Saved the short easy roads
for themselves, lazy slaggards, butit was fined by me. A Tall
(11:33):
was a true man, rose toany challenge, not like these pissant SAPs.
Near as bad as their flowery womenfolk. Nak was glorious. One
of the scouts found a wild appletree and we gorged on sweet reds.
We loaded all we could carry.The trip would take three fortnights, and
(11:56):
we'd have to trade as we wentto avoid hunger, actually considering the blobs
riding in the back. As thesun fell, William rode alongside to Jack
and I again pulling carts. Howgoes it, we told him, and
he nodded good. We'll make campsoon after the next hill. If I'm
(12:18):
not mistaken. You lads need anything, We both shook our heads. My
throat was parched, but I wastoo proud to ask for a drink.
None of the Sap owners had cometo check on them, let alone offered
anything. I wasn't weaker than aSap slave, never in a hundred passings.
(12:39):
Tajak probably felt the same. Thefunny redhead Sap to our left shot
a securious glance, but said nothinguntil we stopped several hours later, walking
over his pale eyes narrowing names,John, pleasure to be meeting you.
Was that your master earlier? Yeah, I said, William wolf you.
(13:05):
He gestured towards one of the coveredcarriages. Hahns coker as if I'd had
the faintest idea who that was.When neither of us reacted, he said,
he's just the most prolific cook thisside of the Netherlands. King's personal
cookie was but his wife passed.We're heading to Waftak for the proceedings,
(13:26):
he sighed. Wife was the nitherof the two by a good heave.
I'm not sure what'll happen now,but I'm glad we shan't be near the
battlefront a day more bloody violent.It was, Thanks Ger, Hahns wouldn't
let us fight. King's men tried, mind you, but Coke had spent
too many beads to part with usso easily. Thank ger Ger, Tajak
(13:54):
said, as if reading my mind. John laughed, forgot you kind of
barbarians. He went on to describethe lion headed sap deity. Whatever a
lion was with a golden mane,whatever was special about that? I knew
plenty of blonds. Maybe that wasdifferent where he came from. It was
(14:18):
dark in the alley as we gatheredaround a series of crackling fires inside the
cart's perimeter. Several Ruffian soldiers stoodguard relentless eyes, not pausing for a
second. They didn't trust us,and I had heard whispers of bandits,
curved swords and vicious crossbows. Theypatrolled the camp with milking regularity, coming
(14:39):
and going with haunting still a murderousclear. Every time they passed unarmed.
We said nothing, but we couldtake them. John saw my eyes flick
to the guard's blade. Careful.We've been with a van since d Mac
and their no chumps bandits tried theirdice and scarface over their dropped two with
(15:05):
the bow before they'd gone ten paces. He gestured to a hulking soldier that
made even Tajec appear puny, andMammoth got another three before they turned tail
and ran like women folk he saidwith a smirk, before talk turned to
cat houses and women cooking, thepointlessness of jewelry, and the shocker that
(15:28):
even well off sap women, withtheir rosy humored perfumes and silk still shat
I liked him. At once.An elder man with slim gray hair and
a swooping hat rose by the firenearest ours. Sh John hissed, that's
honest, Abe. The crowd quietedas the scraggly man scratched his chin.
(15:54):
You're ready for a story? Noone said anything, and he shook his
fist. I said, are youready for a story? Half the SAP's
roared, the others clapped corn Abeout with it. Once long ago,
(16:15):
at the beginning of the world,he began, in a hushed voice.
In a time of gods and power, across the vast north, magical beasts
reigned or in Jura Raiku, hundredsof wild spirits. They made the harsh
(16:36):
north and the northern people the tallto the south, a land forged in
sweat, turmoil and war, rosethe semi deities Tigress gur Pygmia, two
legged embodiments of nature they created sapiens. Abe smacked his hand in a crack
(17:02):
of thunder. Then the fall aloud bellow, cold blooded murder, betrayal,
failed alliance's bloody executions, the icypurge of the last frozen age.
He told the history of the world, all that had been and would be.
(17:27):
It was near enough to kill aman, the tension so great,
a thrilling noose. At last,the booming tale of Isaac's conquest. The
crowds cheered louder still, and evenI, whose people had been decimated,
pounded my chest, honor and glory. A great story. This had been
(17:48):
a telling fit for a d roaror a king. As the world faded
back to normalcy, a hungry longingin my loins, if only I could
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Crooked Teeth and Crooked Morals. Thenext days passed without incident except about of
shity food poisoning, and by thethird we reached wojack. The town was
unremarkable, safe man's size shop stakessurrounding the once tall town, and a
handful of corpses dancing. The gallowedjolt in the breeze under the arched gateway
(21:00):
side was odd though, tall andsap children ran together as equals, and
a powdered sap lasts barted with asturdy tall tinker over the price of a
bauble. The haggling continued as wepassed, and elsewhere more strangeness, and
still not a slave in sight,not even a chained clanging artistry blanketed the
(21:23):
walls of the grid like city.Many a building adorned with rich blues and
greens, landscapes, clan crests,almost too colorful, like the artsy tailor
where we stayed, fascade covered withtall battle scenes, and whose owner,
a bull of a man with crookedeyes, crooked teeth and crooked a morals,
(21:48):
kept tall and saphaws for his manydrunken patrons. Two brawls in as
many hours. Even the owner cheeredwhen the tall shattered the sap hearty jaw
beads changed hands on the wall.Numbers odds illegal, of course, but
the boarders loved it, everyone exceptWilliam. He strode to the barman,
(22:12):
but came away fuming, grumbling tohimself. So not all SAPs were under
his spell. You'd think the kingwould crack down. William said, come
on, let's be off, beforea massive body crashed into our table and
knocked the legs from William's stool.Odanick and I leapt to our feet as
(22:33):
two mason faced brawlers advanced another pair, eyeing us with blistering hate. William
opened his mouth to protest as thegiant swung a busted glass. I deflected
the blow and broke his wrist,while o'danic tackled the second a rowdy cheer
as an onlooker smashed a bar stoolover my Finally healed back tall scum he
(22:59):
spat as I buckled over in agonizingpain, stealing jobs from honest boys.
Here here, the fat bastard slammedhis fist into my man Eggs fell to
the ground, trembling pure rage,rippled as I dropped him with a hard
knee and cracked his onlous head onthe floor twice. Prick, William and
(23:25):
the others were at the door.Marilech Now we left us. More tried
tankards headed towards us. So muchfor all the fun. I rubbed my
eggs and stumbled after them. Aftertwo blocks, William turned, shaking,
steadied himself on Tanner's rail. Thankyou, breathing hard, voice weak.
(23:51):
No one said anything. We werehis slaves. Nothing needed to be said.
We headed to the caravan to rejoinour fellow travelers. The next day
blurred until halfway to Joran. Itwas midday and we were making good time
to spite the rain, until Johnslipped his axel cracked and can't tipped,
(24:12):
timber spilling everywhere. I dropped myload and pulled the lad from the rolling
death trap with seconds to spare.Joseph appeared, as did Coker, and
stormed towards us. Our van didn'thave a single carpenter or woodworker, and
John's whimpering eyes knew it. Cocasmacked him hard. My fist tightened,
(24:34):
but I said nothing. What haveyou done? Coker yelled, My cart
fifty beads more than your miserly life. He raised a fist. Wait.
Tajak bent to examine the damaged wheel. I can fix this, you can,
the trader's greedy eyes narrowed. HowTajak nodded outlining the materials he'd need.
(25:03):
John, eager to help and avoida lashing, ran off while Tajak
removed the wheels and axle, restingthe cart on soaking earth. His calloused
hands ran along the cracked oak rod. He sent o'danic to collect pine sap
and told another lad to start asmall fire before selecting a few sturdy timber
(25:26):
supports. Cutting a length of ropewith Coca's jeweled dagger, he bound the
bundle. O'danick returned, and Tajakcrushed cooling charcoals, mixing them with the
sap in a small tin. Soonit bubbled over. He jabbed a stick
into the sticky black tar. Whatare you, Coca began, but to
(25:51):
Jack ignored him, rubbing the gooalong the edges of the shattered axle.
Once satisfied, he scraped away extraglobs with the dagger and tightened the rope.
Give it an hour, Tajak said, it'll hold until we reach a
city, maybe two days ride.Coker winced and took Tajak's chin. He
(26:15):
forced his eyes into the man's soul. Where'd you learn this trickery? Tall
you're no carpenter. My family werebuilders. Tajek lied taught me everything.
They weren't, of course, butneither Sap knew that. The shifty deception
(26:37):
seemed to work too, as bothmen soon disappeared. At least he avoided
a flogging neat trick, I said. Once they were out of earshot,
my creator taught me, He said, never tried it myself. But that
took some man eggs, as didsuch a bold faced lie. But it
(26:59):
had worked interesting. After an earlyknack, we continued on. Tajak and
I stuck with the heaviest loads,and Tajak's rations were even less than usual.
Joseph was a cheap bastard. Acarpenter's repair would have run a half
dozen beads. No one said theworld was fair after a fortnight. The
(27:22):
beautiful DrAk sea flushing greens, bluesand browns. Even the fancy Sap artisans
and weavers couldn't match. John proclaimedevery day a now the gift from notorious
Sap, father of all things natural. His mother Creator actually was into all
that, counting petals, mushroom visions, branch burnings, even smoked his scrotum
(27:48):
as a babe to guard against darkspirits. Said he had the scars to
prove it. No one asked thenext town, Rakas was different. Something
was off. Couldn't say what.My eyes kept returning to circular stone walls
gate adorned in Isaac's flowing crest o'danicdid likewise. Red clad sap bowman covered
(28:14):
the walls, eyes twitching for akill. They pointed their arrows at us,
tall arrows knocked and everything. Iglared back, daring them to come
down. We made camp outside thetown's walls, and a pair of Isaac's
jowled sentries road to meet us,furtive glances before quick words with several of
(28:37):
the van's leaders. They left.After surveying our camp once more, My
stomach sloshed like raw vegetables and halfbad meat. Something was amiss, but
maybe that was the ale. Chapterfour, cracking footsteps. That night,
(29:00):
Freeman went in search of strumpets.The road had been long, and Racus
was famed for its hoaring and creamycheeses. Most couldn't afford nutty guadiotta,
but a romp and night of darkale suited the purse. Several guards went
as well, insisting we were nearenough to town to avoid raiders. O'danic,
(29:21):
Tajek and I stayed up late,well after SAPs sought their pansy beds,
which slung around a handful of nothingness. When o'danic lowered her voice,
what would you lads say if wemade a run for it? Was she
nuts and risk a bolt to theback. I shook my head, No
(29:41):
thanks, bravery went so far.I'll not die like a hog, o'danic
sighed. Tell me about hogs liftingthese porker women onto their steeds. These
ladies brought enough to clothe the villageif I hear about Isaac's marriage prospects or
(30:02):
the latest Elguro's fashions. Once moresh someone hissed in the darkness beyond.
My ears perked, and as onewe spun, but there was nothing silence.
A second later, another voice,bringing those gird damned tall here after
(30:22):
all we've been through. Sh Awoody voice cut in, you'll wake em.
I need the beads. My wife'swith child. Again, breath stilled
as I bowled my hands into fists, bent into a crouch which wagon.
A third rasped, we'll rob themblind, kill the brutes and make it
(30:45):
look like the ninnies fought over thebounty, a heated argument before the group
continued towards our dying embers. Myheart raced as we stepped into shadows.
Not fear, but anticipation, hope, For Garrick always said, a true
toll is never scared. This couldn'tbe fear. Sing My pulse quickened,
(31:10):
shite crackling footsteps. They were closethere, one cried, eyes reflecting the
fires of karma. He charged,as did his fellow brigands. Swords rose
and I went left, Odanic right, and Tadjeck held his ground as a
vicious rumbling echoed from his powerful chest. In the distance, A dog snarled,
(31:34):
another growled, and I froze asangry panting spread. Beasts racing towards
us, hard hammering as I tooka step back. Why did it have
to be hounds? And still thecamp was quiet and eerie, owed to
impending violence, And then clanging steelshattered the night. A sentry yelled,
(31:56):
the camp erupted as the braided thugsswung. His short sword wind bristled my
leg, but he scarce nicked me. He was no match save for his
sword, but he used it well. I leapt up, back peddling as
he advanced. The dogs were honest, and the robber turned to flee.
Creature sprang, teeth, beard fromelsewhere, screams, and more smashing steel.
(32:22):
The guard must have found them.The man fled, chicken footed when
he shitted hoor. I made tochase, but my legs spasmed, bleeding
like a maiden from a gash alongmy calf. I staggered to the others.
O'danick had disabled her attacker. Arock filled the gaping hole in his
face. She'd grinned beautiful fury andpounded her chest. She'd sleep well this
(32:46):
night. At the next wagon,Tajak knelt over a fallen sap, put
his hand on the man's bleeding shoulder. Why, he asked. The man's
eyes narrowed and his mouth formed aspitting o. The snap of bowstrings from
behind a fallen slump as the bolthammered his torso. Tajak looked up at
(33:10):
the shadowy assailant started to stand,mouth widening. As the sentry's face appeared
crossbow leveled, he was already Theguard fired again. Tajek crashed to his
knees. Another shot as the scoundrelemptied the fancy quiver into my friend collapsed
(33:31):
in a ball of bloodied metal.The soldier spat on Tadjak's lifeless body as
uncertainty raged within me. He wastoo far to charge. Fear and rage
held me motionless, heart shaking fury. Once he left, I rushed over.
He wouldn't get away with this,but it was too late. Tajak
(33:53):
never stood a chance. I'd beena winnie shite. I could have ought
have merrilech Tajek, Where are you? It was o'danic. She emerged and
surveyed the situation. I told her, and her eyes darkened. Neither of
us said anything. There was nothingto say. We must earth him,
(34:16):
I said. At last. Shenodded. I'd asked Joseph about shovels in
the morn, fitful sleep with dreamsof failure. Strange how it mirrored my
storming inner world. I awoke inthe dead of night to add to its
toll. Crept from the fire towardthe outskirts of the camp and found a
(34:37):
good sized stone waited. The sentrydidn't take long to make his rounds milking
regularity. I slammed my hand overhis mouth, and battered the back of
his skull with the rock again andagain until his brain gunks spilled out.
For the crows and carrion he'd rotin fucking Calma or whatever nation his people
(35:00):
honored, served him right back tobed and able to sleep at last.
Or was right once more, andI thought out William the moment I stirred.
He was red faced and bleary eyed, had been out with the lads
for a right hearty time. Itold him everything somewhat didn't need to know
(35:22):
about the guard. After pleading theimportance to Joseph Farren, Mercer lent her
shovels I dug while o'dani carved theboorn knuckles from two nights prior. By
early morn we were ready. Noone seemed to give a shite about the
murdered mercenary justice. The earthing wasa rush ceremony overlooking one of the SAP's
(35:47):
hideous vegetable fields, corn and cabbageand beans shite. No tallwood touch would
that we could earth him elsewhere,but didn't have the time. No one
offered words. I didn't know Tajikwell, but had to speak. Who
else would? He was a goodman, a fighter, and a friend
(36:09):
wasn't sure what else to add seemedfitting good enough, He'd get his slumber
soon. On the road again.Foodstuffs restored the brigand's word kept returning to
haunt me. Rob em blind pinnedon the tall No honor, no worth.
(36:31):
It was brilliant too, though doubtedJoseph or William would have seen through
the treachery. I wouldn't have.The next kingdom, Gallon was on the
coast. King Jaime had chosen wellor played his dice right, or however
these SAPs chose their land. Couldn'tbe ancestry, not a single female king,
(36:55):
or maybe they just had sons.Another sciencing feat. We stopped a
half day in ho Hajj, thewildest thing, a floating city, boats
like zig zagging fish, every mannerof food and spice and fabric, all
the best quality. I'd have pocketeda few bacon slabs if honor hadn't stilled
(37:16):
my hand. Lucky too. Ayoung boy was caught quarter hour later stealing
minced squirrel pie. The Doughey baker, with calves to make a maiden's swoon,
motioned to the butcher, Eh Robin, the ruddy butcher looked up,
dropped the beef he'd been trimming,and grabbed a hefty cleaver. He carried
(37:38):
it over and held the screaming boy'sarm down. A passing noble nodded his
powdered approval, and the baker swungwith a terminal thud, a gripping shriek
as the boy collapsed to the dustyearth. The baker yanked the lad to
his feet, and the butcher hurriedto the smithy. A white hot seer
(37:59):
crisped the body, stumped as passus by continued on their way. So
did we. We've seen it allbefore. You have been listening to Neanderthal
King by Matt Ward. For moreinformation on purchasing the complete epic fantasy adventure,
(38:19):
or to download the entire audio masterpiecefree with a free trial of Audible,
visit Neanderthal King dot com. Bethe change you want to see in
the world. That's something I strivetowards and foul towards every single day.
If you enjoyed this podcast, ifyou think the world could benefit from conversations
like this, the greatest compliment youcan give us is referring to the disruptors
(38:42):
to a friend or talking about uson social media. Please take thirty seconds
to do so. It would meanthe world to us, and if we're
lucky, help us build towards abetter world. Thanks so much for listening,
Thanks so much for helping us spreadthe message, and have a great
day. If you want more ofthe Disruptors, you can subscribe to the
podcast on it or go to disruptorsdot fm, where you'll find tons of
audio and video interview stories with leadersin the fields of genetics, cryptocurrency,
(39:07):
longevity, AI, space, VR, and much much more. You can
also follow me on Twitter at Mattward il. If you enjoyed the show,
please leave a quick review on iTunesat disruptors dot fm slash iTunes to
help more people discover the podcast andhelp us make a bigger impact.
Welcome to the Disruptors, the podcastabout the future of all of us,
where we look at the technologies,trends, and societal norms shaping our collective
future. Hear the world's top mindsshare their insights and predictions on the convergence,
direction and ethics of exponential technologies transforminglike as we know it. You
can learn more and stay up todate at Disruptors dot fm. Merimani Press
(00:27):
presents Neanderthal King by Matt Ward.More information on the author at matt Wardwrights
dot com. You can purchase NeanderthalKing in its entirety or download the entire
audio masterpiece free with a free trialof Audible at Neanderthal King dot com.
(00:51):
Want to follow along with Merrileck's adventurefor a limited time, grab your free
illustrated map of Tackle and the sixKingdom of Saptom by visiting a matt Wardwrights
dot com slash map. Again,that's m A T T W A R
D W R I TS dot comslash map. But now let's get on
(01:15):
with the adventure. A third asthe door shuttered and the bolt shuttered behind
him, locked in no escape.After an awkward silence of uncertainty, Odani
said, what's your story? Thoughtabout saying nothing, but heck, we
(01:37):
had time, why not. Itook a seat alongside my fellow captives and
told them everything. When I finished, she sighed, sounds about right same
here, but married too, Thankthe gods, we weren't blessed with children.
Tajek still hadn't said anything, didn'tseem about to, so I nodded
(02:00):
his way. What about you?He shrugged, mountainous shoulders, smith's shoulders
must have run as smithy back home. There's nothing left for me, he
sighed. They killed my clan butspared me. Said I was the only
one worth lugging to market. Apain still felt over us until Odanic broke
(02:27):
the emptiness. What do you knowabout this? William Fellow seemed a good
master, But I know what youmean. I gave a quick accounting of
what he told me, which causeda Tajek to stand and start pacing ships
water. He fidgeted with his trousers. Could a mighty man be so feared
(02:51):
of water? Seemed impossible? Whata winny shite. But we'd be sleeping
together in the same room, andhe could throttle me in my sleep.
So I said nothing as he stumbledinto his odd tail to Jack was the
youngest of eight, the runt andthe brunt of constant treachery and beating.
(03:14):
He'd outgrown that whipping his clan inrecent passings before the bloody SAPs came.
But I'll never forget what that bastardMachaic did. Left me in that well
for two days. His fists clenchedas he shivered and looked away. Sounded
funny, to be honest, allright, good jest, but I kept
(03:38):
my mouth shut. O'danick was justgetting into her people's telling of the Fiery
Split when there was a knock atthe door supper. The barrier opened and
William appeared food. A roaring chorusfrom my belly as we clattered downstairs,
(03:58):
A wave of relief as we steppedoff that rickety last step onto the busy
tavern first floor, dancing shadows onthe faces of the seedy patrons as William
led us pass the wench to adoor to the left, where a jelly
roll of a Sap woman hunched overa long table, greeted us. Grab
(04:18):
a bowl, a spoon and aslice. We did, and she ladled
thick chunks into our bowls. Halfstarved, I poured boiling broth into my
mouth. Incredible. O'danick did thesame as I gulped greedily at the steaming
pottage. And William grabbed a chunkof two day rye and dipped the rock
(04:43):
in his stew. Tajek stole twoextra slices while the cook droned on about
her pregnant sister didn't notice a thing, so o'danick and I pocketed cheese as
well. William's eyes twinkled, buthe said nothing. Soon we were in
the dining hall, deep in conversationbowls, long empty minds to ourselves,
(05:06):
when a pair of sap roffs satnext to William and started politicing from the
south somewhere. They'd come with theDark King's army to tame the tall of
the Thark Hall. The last raidhad been good to them. The try
tankard slurry every eighth word, hardeyes and tiny foras looking serious as can
(05:30):
be, like most SAPs, whereyour folk headed, The accented one asked,
in a voice like he'd swallowed beershine a dawa. William said,
by way of boot, you fellows, the scrawny whip nodded a glare,
Isaac's are going northeast to avenge hisdead mother, unifying Tarkle supposed to be
(05:57):
good looting up yonder. We coulduse a couple of brooches like this lot.
He gestured at us and spilled moreof his ale. I'm sure you
could, William said, with asmile, but business calls boats don't guard
themselves with these damned African pirates,and Vikilander's scoundrels think they own the seas.
(06:20):
A touch of fire flashed William's face. The drunk shrugged and whistled to
the bar wench for more ale.We left before things got too wild.
Another group of SAPs in the cornerhad tossed us more than a few dirty
looks. We slept that night inour room and William in his, because,
(06:41):
as he said, I'm not sodaft as to sleep with you lot.
Unchained fast asleep when my stomach's basmed. Moments later, standing panting,
what the abdomen clenching, bum tightening? I was going to be sick,
slashing evil in my boughs as Ishuffled to the clay chamber pot an animal
(07:06):
groan made someone stir didn't care,bloody karma. My stomach wheeled. I
yanked the belt from my trousers andbent as my inn its blue reeking filth
hammered my nose, disgusting, Ahorrible kind of awful that felt so much
better. Tajek rolled over, seizedhis stomach. I ain't feel so he
(07:32):
sprang and shoved me off the heapingmess. It was a gruesome night.
Why did I try the God's damnedbread? By morn we were earthing tired
but ready to leave. William unlatchedour door mighty early, but I hadn't
heard a cock crow. Let's geton with hey choked back a cough.
(07:57):
Wat's that bloody assing smell. Wehurried out of the shiite ruined room and
carried his leather sacks downstairs to afree table while William had a word with
the owner. After a quick breakfastloaf for William and watered down ale for
us, we set off. Thestreets were quieter than usual, many a
(08:18):
storekeeper setting up shops, haggling andfriendly insults. Little else. It was
nice, relaxing, but got worseas port came into sight. Stank of
the day's catch. Tajek stopped deadwhen he saw the lapping waves, and
o'danick laughed. We came to asquare off the port's right side, where
(08:41):
a small crowd of SAPs had gathered, and some of these folks truly were
small, barely to shoulders. Williamstrode to a tanned bear of a man
with shaggy black curls, a roughtunic, and hard green eyes and offered
a hand. Must be the vanleader. A few words and William turned
to us. We'll be riding withthis lot as far as boot then born
(09:07):
will bring us to a dawa.It's a long trip. A new lot
will earn your keep. Joseph willgive orders. I'll be back of the
caravan with the landed lot. They'llneed help loading whinnies and carting and such.
He left for a group so gilded. Three of the men rivaled any
woman with child. I've seen belly'sstretching, fine silk revolting. Joseph waved
(09:35):
us over, introduced himself and outlinedthe plan to Jack and I would load
crates. While o'danick watched over Sapladies. Her fiery eyes blazed, but
she said nothing as to Jeck andI joined a procession of men heaving salted
fish, barrels of ale, andall kinds of pelts onto the waiting carts
and wagons. A skinny git ofa man through a large crate at me.
(10:00):
Without warning, I caught it andplaced it on the nearest cart.
An elevated lip on the edge lockedit in place. It was brilliant.
Kajak, look at this, SAPslaughed as I pointed out the crafty trick.
The big man shrugged and went backto hoisting crates. As I admired
the handiwork made such sense. Whyhadn't I ever thought of that? The
(10:26):
SAPs chuckled as I pushed the thoughtaside as I grabbed another box. Soon
everything was ready. Our bloated caravanof fifty some odd traders, slaves and
stragglers left before the sun's midday peakand made good time. We were out
(10:46):
of the city before our shadows outpacedus. To Jack and I pulling heavy
carts along jouncing roads, still muchbetter than the ones back home home.
Why was I thinking of home?A strange, eerie reverence, but why
it was gone forever, no longerrelevant, an unfortunate slip up on a
(11:11):
stone broke my reverie. Which wayyou're going, Joseph barked as I hurried
to right myself. We stopped tochange carters. Several hours later. They
had us Tall carry the brunt ofthe load. Saved the short easy roads
for themselves, lazy slaggards, butit was fined by me. A Tall
(11:33):
was a true man, rose toany challenge, not like these pissant SAPs.
Near as bad as their flowery womenfolk. Nak was glorious. One
of the scouts found a wild appletree and we gorged on sweet reds.
We loaded all we could carry.The trip would take three fortnights, and
(11:56):
we'd have to trade as we wentto avoid hunger, actually considering the blobs
riding in the back. As thesun fell, William rode alongside to Jack
and I again pulling carts. Howgoes it, we told him, and
he nodded good. We'll make campsoon after the next hill. If I'm
(12:18):
not mistaken. You lads need anything, We both shook our heads. My
throat was parched, but I wastoo proud to ask for a drink.
None of the Sap owners had cometo check on them, let alone offered
anything. I wasn't weaker than aSap slave, never in a hundred passings.
(12:39):
Tajak probably felt the same. Thefunny redhead Sap to our left shot
a securious glance, but said nothinguntil we stopped several hours later, walking
over his pale eyes narrowing names,John, pleasure to be meeting you.
Was that your master earlier? Yeah, I said, William wolf you.
(13:05):
He gestured towards one of the coveredcarriages. Hahns coker as if I'd had
the faintest idea who that was.When neither of us reacted, he said,
he's just the most prolific cook thisside of the Netherlands. King's personal
cookie was but his wife passed.We're heading to Waftak for the proceedings,
(13:26):
he sighed. Wife was the nitherof the two by a good heave.
I'm not sure what'll happen now,but I'm glad we shan't be near the
battlefront a day more bloody violent.It was, Thanks Ger, Hahns wouldn't
let us fight. King's men tried, mind you, but Coke had spent
too many beads to part with usso easily. Thank ger Ger, Tajak
(13:54):
said, as if reading my mind. John laughed, forgot you kind of
barbarians. He went on to describethe lion headed sap deity. Whatever a
lion was with a golden mane,whatever was special about that? I knew
plenty of blonds. Maybe that wasdifferent where he came from. It was
(14:18):
dark in the alley as we gatheredaround a series of crackling fires inside the
cart's perimeter. Several Ruffian soldiers stoodguard relentless eyes, not pausing for a
second. They didn't trust us,and I had heard whispers of bandits,
curved swords and vicious crossbows. Theypatrolled the camp with milking regularity, coming
(14:39):
and going with haunting still a murderousclear. Every time they passed unarmed.
We said nothing, but we couldtake them. John saw my eyes flick
to the guard's blade. Careful.We've been with a van since d Mac
and their no chumps bandits tried theirdice and scarface over their dropped two with
(15:05):
the bow before they'd gone ten paces. He gestured to a hulking soldier that
made even Tajec appear puny, andMammoth got another three before they turned tail
and ran like women folk he saidwith a smirk, before talk turned to
cat houses and women cooking, thepointlessness of jewelry, and the shocker that
(15:28):
even well off sap women, withtheir rosy humored perfumes and silk still shat
I liked him. At once.An elder man with slim gray hair and
a swooping hat rose by the firenearest ours. Sh John hissed, that's
honest, Abe. The crowd quietedas the scraggly man scratched his chin.
(15:54):
You're ready for a story? Noone said anything, and he shook his
fist. I said, are youready for a story? Half the SAP's
roared, the others clapped corn Abeout with it. Once long ago,
(16:15):
at the beginning of the world,he began, in a hushed voice.
In a time of gods and power, across the vast north, magical beasts
reigned or in Jura Raiku, hundredsof wild spirits. They made the harsh
(16:36):
north and the northern people the tallto the south, a land forged in
sweat, turmoil and war, rosethe semi deities Tigress gur Pygmia, two
legged embodiments of nature they created sapiens. Abe smacked his hand in a crack
(17:02):
of thunder. Then the fall aloud bellow, cold blooded murder, betrayal,
failed alliance's bloody executions, the icypurge of the last frozen age.
He told the history of the world, all that had been and would be.
(17:27):
It was near enough to kill aman, the tension so great,
a thrilling noose. At last,the booming tale of Isaac's conquest. The
crowds cheered louder still, and evenI, whose people had been decimated,
pounded my chest, honor and glory. A great story. This had been
(17:48):
a telling fit for a d roaror a king. As the world faded
back to normalcy, a hungry longingin my loins, if only I could
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(20:33):
Crooked Teeth and Crooked Morals. Thenext days passed without incident except about of
shity food poisoning, and by thethird we reached wojack. The town was
unremarkable, safe man's size shop stakessurrounding the once tall town, and a
handful of corpses dancing. The gallowedjolt in the breeze under the arched gateway
(21:00):
side was odd though, tall andsap children ran together as equals, and
a powdered sap lasts barted with asturdy tall tinker over the price of a
bauble. The haggling continued as wepassed, and elsewhere more strangeness, and
still not a slave in sight,not even a chained clanging artistry blanketed the
(21:23):
walls of the grid like city.Many a building adorned with rich blues and
greens, landscapes, clan crests,almost too colorful, like the artsy tailor
where we stayed, fascade covered withtall battle scenes, and whose owner,
a bull of a man with crookedeyes, crooked teeth and crooked a morals,
(21:48):
kept tall and saphaws for his manydrunken patrons. Two brawls in as
many hours. Even the owner cheeredwhen the tall shattered the sap hearty jaw
beads changed hands on the wall.Numbers odds illegal, of course, but
the boarders loved it, everyone exceptWilliam. He strode to the barman,
(22:12):
but came away fuming, grumbling tohimself. So not all SAPs were under
his spell. You'd think the kingwould crack down. William said, come
on, let's be off, beforea massive body crashed into our table and
knocked the legs from William's stool.Odanick and I leapt to our feet as
(22:33):
two mason faced brawlers advanced another pair, eyeing us with blistering hate. William
opened his mouth to protest as thegiant swung a busted glass. I deflected
the blow and broke his wrist,while o'danic tackled the second a rowdy cheer
as an onlooker smashed a bar stoolover my Finally healed back tall scum he
(22:59):
spat as I buckled over in agonizingpain, stealing jobs from honest boys.
Here here, the fat bastard slammedhis fist into my man Eggs fell to
the ground, trembling pure rage,rippled as I dropped him with a hard
knee and cracked his onlous head onthe floor twice. Prick, William and
(23:25):
the others were at the door.Marilech Now we left us. More tried
tankards headed towards us. So muchfor all the fun. I rubbed my
eggs and stumbled after them. Aftertwo blocks, William turned, shaking,
steadied himself on Tanner's rail. Thankyou, breathing hard, voice weak.
(23:51):
No one said anything. We werehis slaves. Nothing needed to be said.
We headed to the caravan to rejoinour fellow travelers. The next day
blurred until halfway to Joran. Itwas midday and we were making good time
to spite the rain, until Johnslipped his axel cracked and can't tipped,
(24:12):
timber spilling everywhere. I dropped myload and pulled the lad from the rolling
death trap with seconds to spare.Joseph appeared, as did Coker, and
stormed towards us. Our van didn'thave a single carpenter or woodworker, and
John's whimpering eyes knew it. Cocasmacked him hard. My fist tightened,
(24:34):
but I said nothing. What haveyou done? Coker yelled, My cart
fifty beads more than your miserly life. He raised a fist. Wait.
Tajak bent to examine the damaged wheel. I can fix this, you can,
the trader's greedy eyes narrowed. HowTajak nodded outlining the materials he'd need.
(25:03):
John, eager to help and avoida lashing, ran off while Tajak
removed the wheels and axle, restingthe cart on soaking earth. His calloused
hands ran along the cracked oak rod. He sent o'danic to collect pine sap
and told another lad to start asmall fire before selecting a few sturdy timber
(25:26):
supports. Cutting a length of ropewith Coca's jeweled dagger, he bound the
bundle. O'danick returned, and Tajakcrushed cooling charcoals, mixing them with the
sap in a small tin. Soonit bubbled over. He jabbed a stick
into the sticky black tar. Whatare you, Coca began, but to
(25:51):
Jack ignored him, rubbing the gooalong the edges of the shattered axle.
Once satisfied, he scraped away extraglobs with the dagger and tightened the rope.
Give it an hour, Tajak said, it'll hold until we reach a
city, maybe two days ride.Coker winced and took Tajak's chin. He
(26:15):
forced his eyes into the man's soul. Where'd you learn this trickery? Tall
you're no carpenter. My family werebuilders. Tajek lied taught me everything.
They weren't, of course, butneither Sap knew that. The shifty deception
(26:37):
seemed to work too, as bothmen soon disappeared. At least he avoided
a flogging neat trick, I said. Once they were out of earshot,
my creator taught me, He said, never tried it myself. But that
took some man eggs, as didsuch a bold faced lie. But it
(26:59):
had worked interesting. After an earlyknack, we continued on. Tajak and
I stuck with the heaviest loads,and Tajak's rations were even less than usual.
Joseph was a cheap bastard. Acarpenter's repair would have run a half
dozen beads. No one said theworld was fair after a fortnight. The
(27:22):
beautiful DrAk sea flushing greens, bluesand browns. Even the fancy Sap artisans
and weavers couldn't match. John proclaimedevery day a now the gift from notorious
Sap, father of all things natural. His mother Creator actually was into all
that, counting petals, mushroom visions, branch burnings, even smoked his scrotum
(27:48):
as a babe to guard against darkspirits. Said he had the scars to
prove it. No one asked thenext town, Rakas was different. Something
was off. Couldn't say what.My eyes kept returning to circular stone walls
gate adorned in Isaac's flowing crest o'danicdid likewise. Red clad sap bowman covered
(28:14):
the walls, eyes twitching for akill. They pointed their arrows at us,
tall arrows knocked and everything. Iglared back, daring them to come
down. We made camp outside thetown's walls, and a pair of Isaac's
jowled sentries road to meet us,furtive glances before quick words with several of
(28:37):
the van's leaders. They left.After surveying our camp once more, My
stomach sloshed like raw vegetables and halfbad meat. Something was amiss, but
maybe that was the ale. Chapterfour, cracking footsteps. That night,
(29:00):
Freeman went in search of strumpets.The road had been long, and Racus
was famed for its hoaring and creamycheeses. Most couldn't afford nutty guadiotta,
but a romp and night of darkale suited the purse. Several guards went
as well, insisting we were nearenough to town to avoid raiders. O'danic,
(29:21):
Tajek and I stayed up late,well after SAPs sought their pansy beds,
which slung around a handful of nothingness. When o'danic lowered her voice,
what would you lads say if wemade a run for it? Was she
nuts and risk a bolt to theback. I shook my head, No
(29:41):
thanks, bravery went so far.I'll not die like a hog, o'danic
sighed. Tell me about hogs liftingthese porker women onto their steeds. These
ladies brought enough to clothe the villageif I hear about Isaac's marriage prospects or
(30:02):
the latest Elguro's fashions. Once moresh someone hissed in the darkness beyond.
My ears perked, and as onewe spun, but there was nothing silence.
A second later, another voice,bringing those gird damned tall here after
(30:22):
all we've been through. Sh Awoody voice cut in, you'll wake em.
I need the beads. My wife'swith child. Again, breath stilled
as I bowled my hands into fists, bent into a crouch which wagon.
A third rasped, we'll rob themblind, kill the brutes and make it
(30:45):
look like the ninnies fought over thebounty, a heated argument before the group
continued towards our dying embers. Myheart raced as we stepped into shadows.
Not fear, but anticipation, hope, For Garrick always said, a true
toll is never scared. This couldn'tbe fear. Sing My pulse quickened,
(31:10):
shite crackling footsteps. They were closethere, one cried, eyes reflecting the
fires of karma. He charged,as did his fellow brigands. Swords rose
and I went left, Odanic right, and Tadjeck held his ground as a
vicious rumbling echoed from his powerful chest. In the distance, A dog snarled,
(31:34):
another growled, and I froze asangry panting spread. Beasts racing towards
us, hard hammering as I tooka step back. Why did it have
to be hounds? And still thecamp was quiet and eerie, owed to
impending violence, And then clanging steelshattered the night. A sentry yelled,
(31:56):
the camp erupted as the braided thugsswung. His short sword wind bristled my
leg, but he scarce nicked me. He was no match save for his
sword, but he used it well. I leapt up, back peddling as
he advanced. The dogs were honest, and the robber turned to flee.
Creature sprang, teeth, beard fromelsewhere, screams, and more smashing steel.
(32:22):
The guard must have found them.The man fled, chicken footed when
he shitted hoor. I made tochase, but my legs spasmed, bleeding
like a maiden from a gash alongmy calf. I staggered to the others.
O'danick had disabled her attacker. Arock filled the gaping hole in his
face. She'd grinned beautiful fury andpounded her chest. She'd sleep well this
(32:46):
night. At the next wagon,Tajak knelt over a fallen sap, put
his hand on the man's bleeding shoulder. Why, he asked. The man's
eyes narrowed and his mouth formed aspitting o. The snap of bowstrings from
behind a fallen slump as the bolthammered his torso. Tajak looked up at
(33:10):
the shadowy assailant started to stand,mouth widening. As the sentry's face appeared
crossbow leveled, he was already Theguard fired again. Tajek crashed to his
knees. Another shot as the scoundrelemptied the fancy quiver into my friend collapsed
(33:31):
in a ball of bloodied metal.The soldier spat on Tadjak's lifeless body as
uncertainty raged within me. He wastoo far to charge. Fear and rage
held me motionless, heart shaking fury. Once he left, I rushed over.
He wouldn't get away with this,but it was too late. Tajak
(33:53):
never stood a chance. I'd beena winnie shite. I could have ought
have merrilech Tajek, Where are you? It was o'danic. She emerged and
surveyed the situation. I told her, and her eyes darkened. Neither of
us said anything. There was nothingto say. We must earth him,
(34:16):
I said. At last. Shenodded. I'd asked Joseph about shovels in
the morn, fitful sleep with dreamsof failure. Strange how it mirrored my
storming inner world. I awoke inthe dead of night to add to its
toll. Crept from the fire towardthe outskirts of the camp and found a
(34:37):
good sized stone waited. The sentrydidn't take long to make his rounds milking
regularity. I slammed my hand overhis mouth, and battered the back of
his skull with the rock again andagain until his brain gunks spilled out.
For the crows and carrion he'd rotin fucking Calma or whatever nation his people
(35:00):
honored, served him right back tobed and able to sleep at last.
Or was right once more, andI thought out William the moment I stirred.
He was red faced and bleary eyed, had been out with the lads
for a right hearty time. Itold him everything somewhat didn't need to know
(35:22):
about the guard. After pleading theimportance to Joseph Farren, Mercer lent her
shovels I dug while o'dani carved theboorn knuckles from two nights prior. By
early morn we were ready. Noone seemed to give a shite about the
murdered mercenary justice. The earthing wasa rush ceremony overlooking one of the SAP's
(35:47):
hideous vegetable fields, corn and cabbageand beans shite. No tallwood touch would
that we could earth him elsewhere,but didn't have the time. No one
offered words. I didn't know Tajikwell, but had to speak. Who
else would? He was a goodman, a fighter, and a friend
(36:09):
wasn't sure what else to add seemedfitting good enough, He'd get his slumber
soon. On the road again.Foodstuffs restored the brigand's word kept returning to
haunt me. Rob em blind pinnedon the tall No honor, no worth.
(36:31):
It was brilliant too, though doubtedJoseph or William would have seen through
the treachery. I wouldn't have.The next kingdom, Gallon was on the
coast. King Jaime had chosen wellor played his dice right, or however
these SAPs chose their land. Couldn'tbe ancestry, not a single female king,
(36:55):
or maybe they just had sons.Another sciencing feat. We stopped a
half day in ho Hajj, thewildest thing, a floating city, boats
like zig zagging fish, every mannerof food and spice and fabric, all
the best quality. I'd have pocketeda few bacon slabs if honor hadn't stilled
(37:16):
my hand. Lucky too. Ayoung boy was caught quarter hour later stealing
minced squirrel pie. The Doughey baker, with calves to make a maiden's swoon,
motioned to the butcher, Eh Robin, the ruddy butcher looked up,
dropped the beef he'd been trimming,and grabbed a hefty cleaver. He carried
(37:38):
it over and held the screaming boy'sarm down. A passing noble nodded his
powdered approval, and the baker swungwith a terminal thud, a gripping shriek
as the boy collapsed to the dustyearth. The baker yanked the lad to
his feet, and the butcher hurriedto the smithy. A white hot seer
(37:59):
crisped the body, stumped as passus by continued on their way. So
did we. We've seen it allbefore. You have been listening to Neanderthal
King by Matt Ward. For moreinformation on purchasing the complete epic fantasy adventure,
(38:19):
or to download the entire audio masterpiecefree with a free trial of Audible,
visit Neanderthal King dot com. Bethe change you want to see in
the world. That's something I strivetowards and foul towards every single day.
If you enjoyed this podcast, ifyou think the world could benefit from conversations
like this, the greatest compliment youcan give us is referring to the disruptors
(38:42):
to a friend or talking about uson social media. Please take thirty seconds
to do so. It would meanthe world to us, and if we're
lucky, help us build towards abetter world. Thanks so much for listening,
Thanks so much for helping us spreadthe message, and have a great
day. If you want more ofthe Disruptors, you can subscribe to the
podcast on it or go to disruptorsdot fm, where you'll find tons of
audio and video interview stories with leadersin the fields of genetics, cryptocurrency,
(39:07):
longevity, AI, space, VR, and much much more. You can
also follow me on Twitter at Mattward il. If you enjoyed the show,
please leave a quick review on iTunesat disruptors dot fm slash iTunes to
help more people discover the podcast andhelp us make a bigger impact.
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