“You shall be a Border Reiver!” my Mother declared.  “Strong, braw, and the envy of all men.  They take what they want and do as they please! You were born to be the greatest of them all.”  

I’d seen the Reivers in the past; tall, scary, booming war cries echoing though the valley. I had to join them! 

By the old willow, a tethered horse caught my eye, and I remembered my mother’s words, “They take what they want!”  

Silently, I clambered on the horse and swiftly disappear into the nearby forest. Dappled light broke through the treetops, and I squinted in the darkness. Hours passed and I saw nothing but wee creatures scuttling through the fallen leaves.  Then suddenly I saw him!   

A giant on a steed, bigger and stronger than any mortal man I’d seen before. Riding towards me like the wind, sword in hand he passed me with a rumble like thunder and disappeared just as fast.  

Glancing into the distance I saw a pale figure, crumpled on the path like a broken twig. A river of crimson poured from his open chest, his heart sliced open, never to beat again.  I held my breathe as I stole his sword, a wave of disappointment followed as I discovered his executioner had already relieved him of his riches.  

Back on my horse I follow the path of the giant Reiver. His horse’s hooves giving up the secret path to his hidden lair.    

Patiently I hid until nightfall. Plenty of time to weigh up my choices, both carried risks and both promised glory. Should I introduce myself and start an alliance … or … steal all their treasures and burn their settlement to the ground.  

I do what I want … because I am William Armstrong; the greatest Reiver of them all!