I Read Stories: Burning Pig, Broken Tower by Michael Meyerhofer

 

Burning Pig Broken Tower by Michael Meyerhofer in Swords And Sorcery Magazine

Years ago the Arm Of Heaven descended from the sky. Now it stands as a great crystal tower. The forces of Prince Ichael have seized control from the army of the Unworthy. Thanks to a limping sapper who suggested sending burning pigs to frighten their elephants.

Having seized it it’s unclear how to destroy it. Until someone has an idea, the same limping sapper suggests undermining it so it falls. Unable to take credit Prince Ichael does the next best thing, put the sapper in charge of the digging.

It is a challenge. Though there are bright spots. The sapper befriends a mute woman, who has lost an arm and her tongue, whose skin suggests she might be half-Unworthy. Who admits to no name.

A grimy, digger’s eye view of dealing with a legendary inhumanly sized artefact, as well as your arrogant and dangerous royal boss.

Read This: Wonder is found at the bottom of a pit you’ve dug
Don’t Read This: Digging, threats, mutilation and burning pigs