King Erik sat on his throne looking down at the grime-covered man kneeling before him. Roughly in his fifties, he had a full beard that was stained from decades working in the mines. The small mining village had pleaded for an audience with him, raving about something in the tunnels. Demon and Vog had been mentioned multiple times. Eric had grown tired of the endless rantings of his people’s superstition but his advisers told him it was good for the people to know that their ‘Beloved King’ cared for his citizens.

An extended silence woke him from his thoughts. Torstein, temporary captain of the royal guard, and general of the military nudged him with his elbow, making sure he was paying attention. The miner looked at him expectantly. He gazed at the king with wide eyes, waiting for an answer. Erik realized he must have missed most of what the miner had said. Erik frantically searched for words, trying to make up for his lack of attention. Realizing he had drowned himself in thought rather than listen to the poor man, he leaned forward and looked him in the eyes.

“Hmmm,” Erik thought aloud. “So you say you found a giant door...” he trailed off. “What did it look like?” he asked.

“It had eight points, sire. It glowed and hummed like a ghost.” the miner responded. “Something was behind the door. A monster. I could hear it breathing, like a demon.” Zepper added. “When I went down there, I heard it myself and that is when I saw them.”

Erik gazed at him intently, unsure whether to believe the man or not. He seemed fidgety and scared, his face trying to hide his genuine panic.

“After I saw the Vog in the tunnels, I fled to tell everyone. We feared they would come out of the mine and destroy the village. Everyone locked themselves inside and all production has halted. I know this creates a burden on you, sire, but please help us. We can make back all the money you have lost if only you rid those demons from Vori.”

“Right,” Erik said, raising one eyebrow skeptically. He went through his memory, vaguely remembering parts of his story. “I am disappointed that you have stopped mining, however, I understand your concerns. You will not be punished, rest assured. Tell me of this glowing door. Did you see it yourself?”

“Yes, sire.” Zepper croaked. “I feared it would steal our souls! It was alive.” the miner exclaimed, his whole body trembled as he revisited the memory. “The door brightened when I drew closer and when I saw the Vog approaching, I ran.”

“Did you... see this demon... behind the door?” Erik pursed his lips. “And the Vog? They didn’t attack you or the village?” the king asked, unconvinced. “Why is that?”

“Well,” the miner trailed off. “I didn’t really see it but I knew it was there. I heard it breathing. I know it’s a demon, sire! The cave rumbled beneath my feet, the earth shook from its howls. As for the Vog, we’ve seen more and more sightings of them. They are growing bolder. But never have I seen them in the tunnels. This is new.”

Erik rolled his eyes and leaned back into his chair. “I can’t go chasing after demons you say exist but haven’t seen. And we haven’t seen the Vog in years. They have always been peaceful creatures anyway, why do you think they mean you harm now?”

The miner bent his head down looking worried and ashamed. Erik couldn’t help but feel sorry for the old man, he had traveled all this way in fear of something that more than likely, didn’t pose a threat. Perhaps it was a Vog and the ‘demon’ behind the door was also one. He sighed then snapped his fingers.

“Torstein, send for Rayman. I’ll put my best man on it and put all our minds at ease,” he tried to smile at the miner. “You, sir. Uhhh, what’s your name again?”

“My friends call me Zepper, sire,” he replied as Torstein left the room. “And thank you. But please do not punish us. We can make up the amount of gold that we missed this week.”

“Right... Zepper, lead our soldiers to the door in the mine and Rayman will sort this whole mess out, alright?” Erik compromised for the man’s peace of mind. “And do not worry. You will not be punished. Vori is valued and respected, the people there are hard workers and I will not easily forget that.”

Torstein could be heard giving orders to one of the soldiers, no doubt to fetch Rayman from town. He reentered the throne room and waited quietly at the door.

“That would be wonderful, my King.” Zepper’s face lit up and he gave a toothy smile. “Thank you, sire.” the miner said while slowly bowing. His eyes looked less panicked and more at ease, which is what Erik had wanted.

Zepper quickly backed out, bowing as he did so, and waited outside the door.

“I’ve sent a man to fetch him, sir,” Torstein reported.

“Thank you.” Erik leaned back and massaged his jaw. “What do you think of all this?”

“I wouldn’t put anything past the Vog, sire,” Torstein replied instantly. “We still know very little about those creatures. Peaceful or not, they have threatened Vori. They threaten a town full of people who rely on you for protection. That cannot be ignored.”

Erik groaned outwardly, and grabbed a cup, thankfully within his reach, and gulped down the contents.

“Water.” he pursed his lips in disappointment.

Setting the silver cup back down, Erik waited for Rayman. After several minutes, he entered with a giant grin on his face. Walking forward, he stopped before the king and bowed respectfully. He was a tall man, broad shoulders, sturdy arms, and a hell of a swordsman but the way in which he held himself, wouldn’t tell you otherwise.

He looked overly cheery today, the way in which he entered told Erik that much. Once again he rolled his eyes as his trusted advisor bowed before him. Slightly annoyed with the stupid grin on his face, Erik only stared at him in return.

“You asked for me?” Rayman smirked.

“And what…” Erik smiled wryly at him. “Has you in such a good mood?”

“Why wouldn’t I be in a good mood?” Rayman asked. “I have a stunningly beautiful wife waiting for me at home and two wonderful children. Need I say more?”

Rayman was a kind man, strong and reliable, even if he looked and acted like a buffoon. Erik trusted this man, more than he would ever admit to him. He advised and saw too many disputes and corrals countless times. His role was simple, and checking on a crazy person’s hysterics of a Vog about to kill them all fell into that role.

“I hear there is a demon in Vori?” he smiled halfheartedly. “I assume you want me to check in on the miners, yes?" Rayman asked his king, knowing Erik's doubt in Zepper but also aware of the trust in him to solve the issue. “Do you believe the rumors to be true? There has been an increase in Vog sightings. Perhaps they have made their home in the mines.”

Erik dragged his hands down his face and gave an annoyed groan, pulling on his eyelids. “True or not, that old man believes there’s Vog down there and has halted all production. The octagon door Zepper described sounds extraordinarily close to those in other ruins. If it were one of the Ancients ruins... then that would be a spectacular discovery for Vulkira.”

“I will bring Kevin with me then. He knows of those sorts of things.” Rayman said. “As for the ‘demon’, we can handle it, but if it turns out to be a Vog? What would you have me do?”

“Tread with caution.” Erik scratched his chin. “They have been peaceful creatures for as long as I can remember. Resolve the issue, whatever that might be, but don’t kill unless you must. They usually stay clear of us. Perhaps you can drive them away without conflict. However, your priority is obviously the villagers. I wouldn’t hear the end of it from the council if we put anyone in danger. Whatever is behind the door, is secondary.”

“And if it is an Ancient ruin?” Rayman tilted his head. “What would you have me do then?”

“Then Vori won’t be a village of miners for much longer but rather a village of scholars.” Erik frowned. “It would be the discovery of the century. But we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”

“Shall I accompany them, sire?” Torstein offered.

“That won’t be necessary,” Rayman interjected. “I’m confident I and my men can handle whatever comes our way.”

“Thank you, Torstein, but Rayman is right. And besides, I’d prefer you here with me.” Erik waved his hand in dismissal. “This rumor is spreading like wildfire. Let’s get this over with as quickly as possible and let Vori work in peace.”

“As you wish, sire. It is good of you to heed Zepper’s warning even if it is nothing,” Rayman said in a serious voice. “I will see to it.” he glanced at Torstein then nodded.

“Yes, well, thank you,” Erik said to his friend. “Oh, don’t look at me like that.” he frowned at Rayman.

“I don’t know what you are talking about,” Rayman lied, smiling. His stamp of approval, written all over his face.

“You have that look of praise. Don’t go getting all serious and soppy on me. I am a grown man.” Erik said, frustrated.

“It’s my job to take things seriously. I just enjoy seeing the great king you have become.” Rayman responded, ironically, with a serious voice and face.

“Can’t you relax for once? Sit back, have a glass of wine with me. It might be fun, you know. I could have some girls come in to entertain us? Get some musicians in here? “Hm?” Erik attempted to convince Rayman jokingly. Erik grinned and winked mischievously, obviously in jest.

“As fun as that sounds, I have Shay an-.” Rayman was cut off.

“Shay and two children.” Erik finished for him. “Yes, I know. You are so boring and predictable.” Erik grumbled.

Rayman brushed off the king’s words gracefully, as he knew they were in jest. Erik often insulted him to try and get a reaction from him and always failed miserably, which upset Erik even further. He constantly tried to find ways to poke fun at him and Rayman him. They enjoyed the little game.

Erik was always isolated in his castle, rarely going outside except when necessary. Rayman provided many opportunities to entertain the young king.

“Shay and the children have missed you.” Rayman steered the subject away. “You know our doors are always open to you. What do you say we have a meal together when I return? Get your mind off of work and the stress. I know many women who would love to attend. Not the kind that you speak of. Proper women.”

Erik winced inwardly, he frequently talked about women of late, and he knew it was due to his loneliness and lack of the company of the fairer sex. He acted like he was familiar with women and wanted to seem experienced. He felt insecure about the matter, hoping to convince others he wasn’t the odd man out. He wanted people to think he had lots of women and could have any he wanted at any time, but in reality, he wanted more than a whore. Erik wanted something real. Not bought and not someone looking to use him for power or gold.

Erik groaned again, “What does proper even mean these days?”

“Perhaps you’d find out if you’d get out more. Not all women want you for your money.” Rayman stated. “There are plenty of pleasant girls out there. You’ve just been looking in the wrong place.”

“Come on, I was only jesting. You know me... I only want to have some fun is all,” Erik tried to backtrack as the conversation grew awkward. “I know how much you love your family. Not sure what Shay sees in that ugly mug of yours though.” he insulted, ending with a smirk.

Their banter was something Erik looked forward to. The connection was more as father and son, rather than a servant to the crown. The void of living without a father was somewhat filled by Rayman, but Erik never admitted it.

“Vori will be overjoyed by your presence. Many of the soldiers have family there, yes?” Erik changed the subject. “I trust you will resolve their fears.”

“Yes, of course, sire. Will that be all? If so, I will inform you immediately of anything that needs your attention,” Rayman stiffened in a formal bow.

“Take as many men as you need,” Erik said, slightly annoyed with his bowing. “Don’t take any unnecessary risks. I don’t believe a demon lurks in the mines but the Vog have been known to hide in caves such as these. Be on your guard and drive them out.”

“As you command.” Rayman nodded. “We will take proper precautions. And I assume that is a yes to my invitation,” he smirked.

Pursing his lips, Erik raised an eyebrow. “I suppose I could suffer through a meal with your family.”

“Good,” Rayman said curtly. “I have someone I’d like you to meet.”

“Who?” Erik squinted his eyes. “Not another girl. I think I’m done with women for good.”

“Ha!” Rayman heeled over in laughter. “Son, you don’t know what you're saying.”

Erik glared at him and his cheeks turned red, “I’m serious. You know my luck with women.”

“Trust me. This girl is a good one.” Rayman said more seriously. “She isn’t what you’d expect. She’s the daughter of a surgeon. She helps her mother run a clinic on the corner of town. She’s kind-hearted and…” he winked at him. “Very pretty. You’d like her. She’s eager to meet you.”

Erik gave a deep and heavy sigh, resting his chin in his palm. “Does she know that it's me she’s meeting?”

“Not exactly.” Rayman averted his gaze. “Shay may have… left out some details. But she knows it’s someone important.”

“You and Shay didn’t tell her?” Erik cocked his head. “The poor girl. A bit cruel don’t you think?”

“Ha.” Rayman chuckled. “Yes. Shay was going to tell her today. Don’t worry.”

“Fine.” Erik rolled his eyes. “She’ll probably run away when she finds out it's me.”

Rayman gave another wide grin and turned, making his way for the exit. “I’ll let Shay know,” he called over his shoulder.

Erik watched him leave and a sudden sadness washed over him. Loneliness crept in and he sunk lower in his throne.

Memories of his parent's sudden death and he and his sister, Cara, being left to rule the country came flooding back to him. His sister now lived in Xer with her husband, leaving him alone. Rayman and Shay were the closest things to family he had and he was worried for Rayman’s safety.

With no family, a void of loneliness threatened to consume him. He knew Rayman could see it in his eyes. He had endured so much at such a young age. Most men would have buckled under the pressure of governing an entire nation, let alone a kingdom in the aftermath of a war. Friends and acquaintances only saw him as an opportunity to increase their own standing. For those reasons, Erik had distanced himself from those who sought to use him.

Age twenty-seven and maintaining the richest country in the world, yet he was without a wife. Without a family. He felt truly alone until Shay and Rayman had practically forced him into their own family. But even then, Erik could feel the missing pieces in his life.

Shay looked at Erik, not as a king but a young man who needed guidance. Erik could see the good in himself and Rayman’s family nurtured it but he wished for something more. He couldn’t always rely on them. Shay was the one who had convinced Rayman to join him and act as a mentor. Erik knew Rayman didn’t feel like he did much for him but he trusted Rayman with his life. Shay was always happy to help him too. For this reason, Erik had shown great gratitude towards them and looked to them for advice on many occasions. Even offering them a place in the court but they had refused.

Erik’s cheeks blushed from embarrassment at the memory of calling Shay his mother once. The awkwardness that had followed was nearly unbearable but they had taken it well and treated him like a son, regardless of his status. That was the very reason he liked them so much because they treated him like a person rather than a ruler.

Torstein returned to the door as Rayman was leaving but he saw Rayman whisper something to the captain and they both slipped out the door together.

He watched the two men, perhaps the only people he truly trusted, leave him to himself. After a moment of pause and the slight echoing of his tapping fingers, a lullaby popped into his head. One he knew well.

Erik sat on his throne and hummed his mother’s tune, bringing back the memories of his childhood and of his sister. A great bout of sorrow filled him and he hunched over in his chair, a void in his heart.