Oath of Blood (Warriors of the Fianna #6)

The Warriors of the Fianna

Deep in the heart of the Kingdom of Munster, the legendary King Brian Boru has brought an ancient brotherhood back to life: The Fianna.

Now entering his senescence, King Brian has all but achieved his dream of becoming High King of éire, uniting the nine kingdoms to defend éire’s emerald shores from Fin Gall raiders.

He will need the aid of the kingdom’s best warriors to complete his vision and claim the seat of the High King.

But it is no simple task to become a warrior of the Fianna. Seven trials, the same seven used by the ancient Fianna, test the mettle of all who would claim such an honor.

Intelligence: Memorize the twelve books of poetry, so that you may be knowledgeable on the history, genealogy, and legends of your people.

Defense: With naught but staff and shield, defend yourself from nine men’s spears while standing deep in a hole.

Speed: Outrun pursuers through a forest, without being injured. But take care! Not a branch may be broken to prove your skill.

Movement: Leap over a tree with a height to match your own, then crawl beneath a branch lower than your knee.

Recovery: Run through the forest with all haste until you step upon a thorn. Remove it without slowing down!

Bravery: Fight outnumbered without faltering.

Chivalry: Marry for love.

Truth in our hearts,

Strength in our arms,

Honesty in our speech.