Vanquishing Grendel

                                                                                 
                                                                              2.
We had finally made it to the magnificent mead-hall, and I paused to take in its full beauty. Heorot sparkled more than the shimmering waves that roll across the seas. It was truly breathtaking, and I could only imagine the king that ruled over this large village.

Once we walked in, it was clear why such a grandiose structure was needed for the village. Hundreds of men stood crowded in every nook and cranny of the hall. Scops sang over the rowdy, drunken men who swapped battle stories. Mead vessels clinked, sloshing the sweet honey all over the wooden floorboards.

I waltzed forward, humbly approaching the king, aged heavily from the stress of Grendel. Respectfully bowing, I explained my intentions to Hrothgar and sat anxiously waiting for his permission. He then stood, looking down at us from his high perch. His voice bellowed across the halls, shaking the very foundation. His arms spread in a welcoming embrace as he granted us permission to slay the beast. The crowd yelled in appreciation, and mead was shared amongst all. While the Danes sang their songs of praise, I sat, inspecting the scene, awaiting the darkness that would bring the foul monster. My nerves rattled, afraid of my fight with no weapons. I insisted that if Grendel used no weapons, then so shall I. I laid my sword down, and heaved a sigh.

I laid in the night, listening to the harmony of deep snores intertwined with the sweet chirps of insects. My eyes had grown accustomed to the dark, and I could make out each chair, now empty. My mates had crashed not long after the Danes returned to their homes, and I laid alone for hours, tense with anticipation.

I had been crouched in my corner for many hours, when the front door was torn from its hinges with ease. Two fiery orange bulbs pierced the blackness of the hall. The comforting chirps of insects faded, replaced by the scratching of the beast's claws and his deep breaths.

Knowing I would easily be spotted if I left my spot, I hesitated. Grendel crept his way towards my crew. He snatched up one of them, thirstily ripping him apart and consuming the entrails. He finished every last bit of my companion, and a fury rose from within me. I leaped at the hairy monster, pinning his arm behind his back. He screeched, releasing the most awful noise mankind has ever heard. Grendel flailed and thrashed wildly. He thumped against the tables, but I kept my hold firm. Goblets were thrown from the tables as they were overturned, and I tightened my hold. Again, the monster howled and clawed at the air with his free hand.

I yanked at his elbow, tearing it from his shoulder. He shrieked in pain, and tossed me off of his back. With his arm in tow, I stumbled back, eyeing Grendel as he slumped out of the hall. My men all huddled around me, ogling the furry limb in my hand, and giving me supportive pats on the back. I held up the arm, and released a victorious battle cry.

The following day, I presented my token to the King of the Danes, telling him of my ordeal. Elated, the king summoned his men to hold a feast for me tonight. I have decided to stay for the banquet, and leave first thing tomorrow. Hopefully, my victory will please Higlac and bring great honor for my fellow Gaets.

                                                                                                                         Yours Truly,
                                                                                                                           Beowulf