What are you doing? I have to get back to the castle before the sun sets.
Melos was surrounded by mountain robbers.
Give us everything you have.
I have nothing, Only my life. Even that belongs to the king.
Your life is what we want.
What? Wait a minute, did the king send you to kill me?
The robbers did not answer.
They raised their wooden sticks to hit Melos. But Melos knocked down one man and took his stick.
I’m sorry, but I have to do this.
Melos hit three robbers and then ran away. The afternoon was very hot. It made Melos very tired and weak. Soon he could not run anymore and fell down. He tried to stand up but couldn’t. Melos looked up to the sky and said…
I swam across a fast river and even fought against the robbers. I know I can still run. If I don't, my best friend, Selinuntius, will die because he believed in me. That is what the king wants.
When the body is tired, the mind also becomes weak. Even the strong Melos started to have weak thoughts.
I have tried my best to keep my promise. I ran until I couldn’t run anymore. I am not an evil person. But I’m sure everyone will laugh at me. My family will be laughed at.
Melos continued to talk to himself.
The king told me to be late. He said that he would save me if I was late. I hated him for saying that, but that might happen. The king will laugh at me and save my life. But that is worse than death. Selinuntius, you will not die alone. I will die with you. I know that at least you believe in me. But wait.
Melos started to think differently.
Maybe I am the only one who believes in people. Justice, truth, love. When you think about it, they are only pretty words. For a long time, people have killed other people to live. So why shouldn’t I? I am an evil person. I don't care about anything anymore.
Melos gave up and lay down on the ground. His eyes started to close. Then, Melos heard the sound of water. He slowly rose up and found spring water coming out out from a rock near his feet. He drank some and let out a deep breath. It was like waking up from a dream.
I think I can walk now.
Melos felt his strength return. Hope also returned with it.
There is still time before sunset. I don't care about my life. I only care about keeping my promise to someone who completely believes in me. I must run. Run, Melos.