-----------------------------------------

As Riou and Therese approached, Eileen and Leona didn’t see the necklace and turned to Therese.

“We found her and recovered a few things, but the necklace and the short swords were already gone. We were dealing with the Black Rose. But in the end, he didn’t seem to want to continue the pursuit.”

The Lioness looked at Eileen, she seemed concerned and with her mind elsewhere. “What happened?” promptly asked the Lioness.

Eileen didn’t know how to address the matter, so Leona told her master what was bothering the princess. “Eileen was recognized by a noble while we were searching for the tracks.”

The Lioness remained quiet waiting for her to continue.

“He was on his way to the summer festival in Thanes and immediately recognized Eileen on the streets. He announced that he’d inform Torwald of her arrival, thinking she was going to the festival as well” continued Leona.

“I see” said Therese while looking at Eileen. “You are concerned that now they know you are coming, things will get complicated given the custom of this land.”

Eileen nodded and sighed “Last time I was here, it took me about 7 months to fulfill most of the challenges... and my father had to get very angry and pull me back home, otherwise the challenges wouldn’t stop.”

“Can’t we just avoid them altogether? Not seeing the king in Thanes” questioned Leona.

Therese shook her head. “No, now that the princess is known to be in the North, she will have to pay her respects to her Grandfather, we will have to do so as well” said Therese.

The Lioness looked back at Riou who was clearly not understanding a word they were saying.

“Well, you could ask him for help. You said you lost to him already, why don’t he claim the victory so you could begin the next part of the rites. He would easily scare off any challengers and both of you would be free to do as you please.” said the Lioness plainly.

Eileen blushed and shook her head “No, that would mean we’d be engaged! We’d end up married”

Therese shrugged not understanding her problem “Isn’t that what you want? After all I saw, I thought you were interested in him”

Eileen glanced at Riou that was very confused and became even more flustered “It’s not like that, I mean, no… we don’t have that kind of relationship and I couldn’t ask him to put himself through that just to free me from my rites! It’s my burden to hold, not his”

The lioness sighed. “Well, in any way, I don’t know how long we will stay in the north, but don’t worry, we won’t leave you behind if that’s your concern. We will deal with the rites and customs of this land as they come.”

The princess nodded, a bit relieved after hearing that.

-----------------------------------------------------

With the last events, the slow caravan was not an option anymore. With difficulty, Riou communicated through gestures and drawings indicating his need to reach Thanes quickly and find Max.

Therese acknowledged the need and went to Bronach and Herger to break the news.

“So that’s why the boy is so quiet and gloomy lately? I could swear he was raised and born in Allard with that way of speaking of his,” said the merchant looking at him. “And I’m sorry Viki brought you so many problems. I can’t give back what she took, but I hope that she realizes the wrong path she has taken and changes her ways.”

Herger looked disapprovingly to Bronach. “I always told you that girl was trouble.”

Bronach nodded in agreement. “But still, I owe her… whenever she needs me, I will be there to help her” he paused for a moment before continuing, “It pains me to see you all leaving before the time… but you and the boy helped a lot already. You are all welcome to join us anytime in the future.”

The mercenary leader smiled and nodded confirming those words while looking at the boy.

Therese nodded courteously, while Riou shook their hands leaving with Therese.

The group quickly put their things together and immediately rode towards Thanes.

The road condition was better as they got closer to the capital, the horses ran with ease.

While they traveled, Eileen tried to teach Riou some words, but it was quite a difficult effort.

Isolated words like tree, rock, dirt and water were no problem, as they could be pointed out in the open. But conversation and verbs were out of question since there weren’t any references.

So once he got another necklace, he decided to start taking classes to learn the language to avoid such a situation in the future.

The trip went on a bit more silently than before as Riou couldn’t talk to Eileen. Nonetheless, she stayed by his side and tried to communicate. They made gestures to each other and exchanged glances and looks.

“For someone that doesn't know the words of the language, they seemed to be understanding each other quite well.” said Leona glancing at them and smiling.

Therese nodded, agreeing to her apprentice’s remark.

---------------------------------

Thanes was very different from Longart. The castle-like structure reminded him of an old, wooden, Norwegian church with stone walls to reinforce its structure; it looked older but not nearly as massive as Allard’s capital castle.

But in a similar fashion, it was also at a much higher elevation than the city itself.

Riou thought it must be a custom of those lands to build castles in high places.

From the distance, the place could be seen at the end of a very steep road that slithered through the mountain, towards the high plateau where the castle was completely outside of the city itself.

The city revolved down around the plateau that was meant to provide natural protection from the strong winds that were constantly blowing in that region. It was very similar to Longart on how everything was placed.

The houses were similar to the villages and Norse cities so far, mostly made of stone and wood. Very few houses were higher than 1 story. The bigger ones had family crests engraved on their doors, clearly showing the residence of some of the families of the city.

Not too far to the East, the sea could be seen. It was very different from the sea Riou remembered from his world, from the distance it seemed of a dark brown, almost black color.

The constant cloudy weather gave the city a gloomy feeling.

After crossing the massive stone gates, it was time to decide the first stop. As they were very close to the castle already, Therese and Eileen wanted to go there to deal with the problem as soon as possible. Hopefully, before the news of her arrival spreads and makes things even more difficult to counter later on.

Therese looked at Riou and pointed to the castle. “Eileen, Therese and Leona,” she said while indicating their need to go to the castle. “It will be quick”.

Riou frowned. He gestured with his hand indicating that they could go later on. To him going towards the inn took priority as he had enough of not understanding anyone.

Therese nodded, indicating they would go to the castle and he could go to the inn. They would meet there later on.

------------------------------ The Norse Castle.

On the small path that led to the castle entrance was a stable, visitors could leave their horses there as they reached the castle.

The walls began after a small natural ridge that served as a bridge. Small and well covered by the stone walls with a huge iron gate. Clearly a choke point, intended to gather invading forces and reduce their attack effectiveness.

The guards used heavy leather armor with fur to protect against the cold wind. The helmets were made of iron and leather as well. They held spears and shields with a sword attached to their belt. There were no crest or colors, very different from the Allard soldiers and their uniforms and standard armor colors.

As they put the horses in the stable they walked inside the structure, they arrived at the castle’s main entrance. The guards there stood still in reverence as the princess passed by, clearly aware of her arrival.

Inside the entrance hall, the woodwork was outstanding. Many intricate symbols, animals and battles were carved on the walls, to perfect detail. Everywhere, to the pillars and ceiling as well.

The temperature increased comfortably as they walked inside, many fireplaces were disposed everywhere, constantly burning to keep the cold away.

Eileen walked through the corridors with confidence, knowing exactly where to go.

They reached a large room when someone approached the princess by surprise.

“Are my eyes playing with me? Eileen, you've grown even more beautiful!” exclaimed the man with open arms and a smile, approaching the princess.

He was in his 50’s, tall and sturdy build with golden hair tied in a short ponytail and a well trimmed golden beard. His eyes were of a light blue and his clothes were made of many expensive pelts and fur, all held together by a gold chain on his chest.

“It’s good to see you too uncle,” replied Eileen respectfully greeting him.

“Where is Elrik and Hanna? Did they go see your grandfather already?” asked the man after hugging the princess.

Eileen shook her head. “No, they didn’t come this time.”

The man frowned. “Where is your entourage then?”

The princess continued, “There is none.”

Still frowning he looked at everyone behind the princess. “And who would they be?”

Eileen showed Therese and then Leona. “This is The Great Lioness Therese and her disciple Leona.”

The man’s eyes widened. “Now I understand why there is no one else. Elrik really spared no expense to keep you safe. I welcome the mighty Lioness.” He lowered his head respectfully towards Therese who replied in kind.

The man smiled once again, very impressed by the Lioness. He then began to walk towards the door at the end of the hall. “Your grandfather will be pleased to see you. Come, I will lead you to him.”

As they walked, the blond man continued speaking, “You came at a great time. The summer festivities will begin in a couple of days. We already sent word for the nobles that you’d be attending the festivities as well. We expect a really good tournament this year, everyone will be attending.”

Eileen smiled wryly and looked at Therese.

As they approached the end of a corridor, a door opened to a hall with a long table. Nearby it, in a step above the rest there were two thrones.

One was empty and on the other one had a big man sitting down on it. His hair and beard was completely white of old age. A scar ran from his forehead to his cheek, above his left eye that was completely white.

His right eye was of a crystal blue color and immediately fixed on who was entering his hall.

The man was old, but clearly still very big and strong. By his posture and build, he seemed to carry a lot of strength on his muscles despite his old age. His face showed wrinkles around his eyes while holding a stern look. His attire was very similar to the princess’ Uncle, but much flashier, as the pelts were only made of white wolves and white bears.

His white beard was braided with a gold ring holding it together on the bottom, giving a very elegant look to the old king.

“Father, Eileen has arrived” said the man bringing the attention to the princess. When he heard that, the old king showed a large smile.

But he was not alone. A man with hair as black as the darkest night was there as well. He elegantly turned around and waited in silence as the others approached.

Eileen’s uncle continued, “With her, the famous Therese of the beast lands, the mighty Lioness and her disciple” said the man approaching the throne, followed by the trio.

By hearing the princess’ name, the old man smiled and leaned forward as if to see better. “Come closer child, my eye is not what it used to be. Let me take a look at you”

Eileen smiled at the sight of her grandfather and approached him. His good eye was the same color as hers.

He stood up from the throne to meet her, the man was a giant if compared to the common man of Allard and would even put Syldis to shame.

He hugged her with one arm and easily picked her up from the ground. “How have you been my dear? Are you eating well? You seem smaller than last time I saw you.”

“I’m fine, grandfather, you are too big” she replied with a smile.

The old man’s eyes widened briefly looking at the princess's smile. Even he knew it was a rare sight. “That’s good to hear my child, now, introduce me to your friends.” He looked at the group, putting her down but still holding her on his side.

“This is my Grandfather, Ephil Torwald, the King of Thanes and the lands of the north,” she said while looking at the two who bowed in respect.

The old king nodded. “You are all welcomed here andI thank you for bringing my granddaughter safely, you are welcome to stay as long as you wish, ” he said to them and turned to Eileen once again.

“How is your mother?” questioned the old king to his grandchild with a smile.

“She is in good health” replied Eileen as he nodded with a more serious expression.

“I heard the castle was attacked, was that true?”

Eileen nodded with a stern expression. “Mages with dark robes attacked the castle, but they did not succeed.”

“That fool you call a father has more luck than good judgement, I told him many times to improve those flimsy defenses. His guards can’t fight even if their lives depended on it. I don’t know what I would have done if something had happened to you or Hanna” the old man ranted angrily, until he finally sighed, calming down. “I knew they failed already, but I needed to hear it from your mouth. To bring peace to my heart.”

The king turned towards Therese, “I also heard the hordes of the savages threatened Brigantium, perhaps you passed by after the incident, did you happen to see the battle?”

Therese shook her head “We saw the battlefield afterwards your highness, charred lands and bodies until the sight could reach” answered the Lioness.

The king pondered for a moment “Do you believe it was really done by a single mage?”

Therese nodded once again “Thousands of soldiers witnessed it”

Torwald nodded as if confirming his suspicions as well. He seemed very aware of everything that happened in Allard.

So he quickly set it aside and continued the conversation with his granddaughter with a smile.

“I also heard you’ve been winning many challenges lately… and that you taught some norse noble a lesson, who was it Camus?” questioned the king looking at his son.

“It was Askjell from the second house of Kalle,” Eileen’s uncle replied.

“Askjell… well it was expected. The second house is not from a good lineage and Askjell isn’t even half the warrior his cousin is.”

Camus added, “I’m certain the main house of Kalle will represent well in the tournament. Who knows, maybe the heir of the first house of Kalle can even prove to be a proper suitor for Eileen.”

Torwald looked at Eileen. “The tournament might be a good opportunity for you to meet a good husband, I’m glad you came to your senses and came seeking it in the North. Your father was the last good warrior left in all Allard, there is no one left for you there” As he finished his sentence he noticed the concern in her eyes.

The door barges opened and someone entered at fast. A beautiful woman, with light green eyes and a long and voluminous dark golden hair. Her face and body resembled Eileen’s so much that one could easily say they were sisters.

But all it needed was a second glance for anyone to realize she lacked the elegance of the Allardian princess. Walking and porting herself much more like a man than a lady.

“Eileen!” shouted the blond woman.

“Elise! How many times have I told you to not barge in this hall when your grandfather is attending?” scolded Camus walking towards his daughter.

“Don’t worry too much Camus… you know how your daughter is” said a smiling king.

Camus sighed as his daughter approached.

Elise walked towards Eileen with a smile and a high chin. “Long time no see cousin. I heard you’ve been doing well on the challenges issued against you” she said confidently.

Eileen smiled. “It’s good to see you too Elise, and I’m certain you’ve been doing even better” replied the princess, noticing that her competitive cousin hasn't changed at all.

Camus sighed. “I wish that were true, but nobody wants to challenge her on the rites. I’m afraid I will have to send her to Brine’s temple if this continues.”

“Father!” exclaimed Elise. “The only reason I’m not challenged is because they are all cowards, they know they can’t stand against me in battle” she said proudly.

“Don’t praise yourself too much. What they can’t stand is you… you are beautiful, but the fame of your temperament precedes you and your beauty nowadays” he scolded his daughter and turned towards Torwald. “My apologies father, Lord Brahm… but this daughter of mine wears out my patience.”

Brahm just smiled while Torwald laughed. “Don’t worry Camus, someday she will learn.”

Elise looked down and puffed, disagreeing with them, she had clearly, nothing to learn.

“Well, at least we will have Eileen to show her how a proper princess should behave… are you not embarrassed to know that your cousin has been challenged 3 times more than you?” said Camus.

Elise puffed once again and looked to the side conveying how unimpressed she was, but glints of envy could be seen in her eyes.

“Regarding that…” Eileen stepped down from her grandfather's side and joined Therese while Torwald sat down once again. “My visit today is to pay my respects to my grandfather… but I do not intend to stay in the castle. I also do not know how long I will stay in the North” She paused for a moment noticing the surprise in her Uncle and cousin.

“I’m afraid I will not be able to participate in the festivities as well” continued the princess elegantly addressing her grandfather.

Elise and Camus frowned confused by the statement while Torwald listened with attention. Both father and daughter looked displeased and waited a moment for Torwald’s intervention.

The king stroked his beard thinking about her words. But Camus decided to say his thoughts on the matter.

“Nonsense! You came all the way here from Allard for what reason then? Everyone had been informed of your participation. Many are eager to see you fight and to fight you. This is a great opportunity for you to meet a good Norse husband” said Camus, looking at Eileen.

The Allardian princess shook her head “Unfortunately there are… things I’d like to do first”

Torwald leaned forward once again, something had changed on his granddaughter. First she was smiling and now she is taking a stand against their customs. His curiosity was sparked.

And with that in mind he continued, “Unfortunately, the rites can’t be overlooked because they became a burden. The path demands that you fulfill your duties as a maiden of the North.”

The room became silent, not even the strong wind outside could be heard.

Eileen looked at Therese concerned on what to do. The lioness decided to step up “ What if she already had a suitor?”

Torwald looked sideways at the lioness while squinting his eyes, a smirk appeared in his face. “Well, the maiden’s duties would cease and the warrior’s call would begin. The suitor would be presented and a date would be set for the marriage to be held. During which anyone could contest his claim and fight him for the maiden.”

Therese looked at Eileen with a smile, the princess knew what the Lioness was thinking, but still, she knew it would be wrong to put Riou through such an ordeal. It was way too much to ask, even if it was just to get her off the place. The implications were simply unbearable.

Even if it was to gain time, it was still a marriage proposal. Even if it was momentarily just to allow her to continue her travels, deep down she feared what that could mean, and most of all, what if he said no?

She knew his goal was to get back home and being engaged to a princess would certainly drag unwanted responsibilities and troubles which she knew how he felt towards such things.

It was too much, she feared that such a thing could break them apart for good.

That thought made her review her options, suddenly losing a few months at the North to fulfill the maiden’s path didn’t seem that bad of an option.

She promptly shook her head towards Therese, indicating she didn’t wish to proceed with that.

Therese just sighed and kept quiet.

But the clever king observed with his good eye, he noticed his granddaughter's anxiety and the lioness's frustration. “Have you lost to someone Eileen?” suddenly questioned the king intrigued.

Camus and Elise's ears raised up as both looked at Eileen with surprise.

The princess began to think of a proper answer, something that wouldn’t compromise anyone.

But as she thought, a strange silence denounced her every second it stood. More and more their eyes grew larger as she remained silent thinking of an answer.

Before she could come up with anything, she looked up to her grandfather. He was smiling, certain of the answer.

She knew she couldn’t lie, still, the truth would bring unwanted repercussions… so the silence was her only response.

The king nodded, understanding the situation. With a serious tone “So you have lost to someone”

Eileen nodded briefly.

“I see… was he one of the challengers that we heard of?”

“No…” replied the princess, unable to say anything else but the truth to her grandfather at that moment.

“No? Was it recent then? You fought him on the way here? So a norseman challenged you?”

“No… I have not fought by the rights since Askjell in Allard”

Ephil was confused “Then how? What happened?” continued the king. Camus and Elise listened to the conversation attentively with widened eyes.

Eileen sighed “In Allard, we were training. He was very good with the sword. I noticed he was holding back on me during the training and ended up getting a bit worked up because he was just defending himself. So I ended up challenging him to a real fight” said the princess slowly. “At the time I wasn’t thinking, I was mad at him, at me… and just wanted to test myself against his full strength, I needed to know how much of a better fighter he were”

Elise was with an open mouth. She was unable to believe her ears. The highly praised and perfect Eileen had challenged someone and lost, and worse, she covered it so nobody would know about it.

“You couldn’t win at someone who was just defending himself? What have you done this past 2 years? Did you forget all about swordsmanship?” Elise said mad at her cousin.

Eileen didn’t respond and just remained silent, Torwald raised his hand to silence Elise and continued talking to Eileen “You, better than anyone should know that a challenge is a challenge. There is no training, no hold backs. A defeat is a defeat” added Torwald. “Did he claim the victory?”

“No… he knows little of our customs,” said Eileen. Camus who was already shocked took another hit at the news that he was not even a man of the Norse.

Before Camus could speak anything, the king continued to talk to Eileen “Did you tell him that he could?” questioned Torwald looking at the princess's eyes.

“No… I didn’t say anything at the time… it was training after all and he didn’t seem to have any interest in the rites.” replied Eileen.

Torwald pondered for a moment becoming angered “This is concerning… Have you lost your honor and allowed him to go on his way unaware of this? That’s why you feared that we discovered the truth?”

Eileen took a deep breath to calm herself down. She was answering her grandfather whom she respected deeply.

“No… but it was just training and I didn’t want him to get caught in these customs. I knew he wouldn’t want to follow them anyway” said the princess.

Camus and Elise looked at each other with extreme confusion, no one in his right mind would deny marrying a princess, much less someone like Eileen.They had their minds set that her omission was her way to escape an unwanted marriage.

They had a difficult time believing her.

While stroking his beard and thinking about the situation the king continued, “Where is he now?”

“In the city below, waiting for us” continued Eileen with a sorry expression. Despite her wishes, things were turning for the bad side.

“Oh, so you kept him close to you all this time?”

She nodded.

Ephil smirked to himself “I see… and what is his name?” questioned the king.

“Riou, grandfather.”

Lord Brahm suddenly smiled to himself, clearly having a good time with all that was happening in front of him.

The king nodded. “Very well. Given the circumstances, I now understand your strange request. Despite the path not being followed as tradition demands. But since he remains within a ride away from you, honor has not been tainted. Still, this situation cannot continue as is. The rites must be honored and a decision must be made, be it favorable or nor. He must be allowed to choose.”

Camus nodded in agreement despite not liking that he was not a norseman.

“Unbelievable!” said Camus, disappointed. “Why haven’t you brought him here already if he is traveling with you?”

“Because she is ashamed!” Intervened Elise “He must be some ugly old man, as most Allardian nobles”

Eileen didn’t react, elegantly, she remained in silence.

“Which family is he from?” continued her uncle.

She shook her head “He is not from these lands so he does not belong to any of the families in Allard”

“A peasant? You lost to a commoner Eileen? Have your skills decayed that much in these past years? What were you thinking allowing a commoner in the castle and even challenging him? This is unacceptable.” ranted angrily turning to Torwald expecting him to do something to prevent this nonsense.

Elise restrained herself from laughing loudly. It was too much for her. The so-high-esteemed Eileen had lost to a commoner. “He was not even a noble? then not only short and ugly but he is also poor, smelly and toothless?! I need to meet him!”

“What is done is done…” Torwald said silencing everyone while looking with reprisal at Elise who was out of line, she immediately contained herself.

“Eileen, do you feel obligated towards him?” Asked the king as the princess just nodded once.

“That is all I needed to know. This man will be brought here immediately. As he did not know what it meant to accept a maiden’s challenge, he will be informed and allowed to claim it or not. If he denies it, nothing will change. Eileen will stay and answer as the rites demand.” The king paused for a moment.

“If he accepts it, he will be presented as Eileen’s suitor at the tournament, so everyone will see and know his worth as a fighter. With a lot of luck, his skill will be so impressive that it will sway everyone away from the fact that he is a commoner.”

Eileen’s eyes widened and her chest grew heavy. All that she wanted to avoid had come to fruition.

Camus looked at his father concerned. “He will not deny it... We must prepare, it will be harsh to have someone without a house in the Tournament. And the fact he will be Eileen’s suitor will be seen with bad eyes. Our honor will be put to question and they will challenge him right then and there. Well, at least Eileen will have a norse suitor when that happens” Said Camus trying to see the silver lining in all that was happening.

“We will honor the path, that’s what matters,” Torwald added calmly.

The room went silent for a moment by the bad prospect that had formed, both countries' royal families would be dishonored by such unexpected fate. For them, a commoner would lack the training, intelligence and discipline that only the noble could receive.

The fact that a princess, born from both royal houses, lost to one showed nothing but lack of strength.

Lord Brahm suddenly approached Torwald. “Perhaps I might be of assistance to ease your minds… I’m willing to bet on the princess’ intuition. If this man has no name or family, I’m willing to invite him to my house and allow him to represent my name,” said the man out of the blue to everyone’s surprise.

“That’s a first… I can’t remember you ever helping anyone Lucian” said the king with a mix of suspicion and surprise towards the noble. “Please don’t feel obliged to help on our regard, giving him your name is too much””

Lucian smiled. “Don’t worry about that. As I said before, I’m more than willing to bet on the princess intuition, I believe the rites work in mysterious ways. I think she challenged this man for a reason, after all, it has been proven over and over that the women of your house always had an uncanny sense to choose the greatest of warriors. My house would only benefit by adding a strong member to it”

Torwald laughed loudly at that remark, Elise’s envy grew at a large pace. Lord Brahm who was known for not involving himself, was clearly taking Eileen’s side for no reason.

“Are you sure Lucian? If he takes your name, he would no longer be a commoner. That would certainly help us all.”

Lucian just nodded.

He then turned to his granddaughter. “I need to meet this man Eileen. The elements must love him if even Lucian is on his side. Bring him here as soon as possible!” Torwald nodded looking once again at Brahm. “What a lucky bastard this man is, not only can he become a Strongheart but also a Brahm!” said Torwald in a joyous tone. “I need to meet this man”

Camus sighed “I just hope he is half the fighter you said he is Eileen… or the Brahms will finally have a dent on their flawless reputation.” The king turned towards his son, “For our sakes, let’s hope his reputation remains flawless this time around”

Eileen was very surprised and quickly bowed followed by Therese and Leona.

“Grandfather, Uncle… Elise” She said elegantly turning and leaving while holding a heavy heart.

Elise watched her going. Despite all the odds, once again everything turned in favor of her cousin.

--------------------------------------------- Meanwhile in the City

Riou roamed the streets with his horse in an attempt to find the tavern. Luckily it would have a picture resembling a flying dragon.

He could notice a few taverns on the way through the city. Those that didn’t have any pictures, only writings in the front, he entered and asked for Max, plain and simply saying his name. As no one seemed to understand, he’d left for the next one.

It didn’t take long for him to find one with a dragon pictured on the front board. He entered the small tavern and could see just a few tables, the kitchen and 4 rooms. It was a very simple and small establishment.

Behind the counter he saw someone very familiar “Syldis?” said the boy looking at the huge woman’s back that reminded him of his friend in Allard.

The woman turned to him, she had a remarkable resemblance to the owner of the drinking bear, but this one was a bit older and slightly different face than Syldis he knew. Not much though.

The woman spoke, but he could not understand it. Riou brought his hand to his chest. “Riou,” he said and then pointing down at the tavern he continued, “Max.”

The woman looked at him with suspicion, but he was certain that was the right place after seeing the woman and her uncanny resemblance with Syldis. He waited for her response.

The large woman looked at his hair and his eyes with care and spoke some strange words to which Riou just smiled wryly, he shook his head pointing to his ears. “I can’t understand,” she was surprised by the strange words he was saying.

She seemed convinced and walked to the kitchen briefly returning with a key. A key made of a transparent crystal. She led the way towards one of the rooms and signaled to the boy to follow her inside.

In the room there was a bed and a table with a wooden box with metal reinforcements.

She put the key in the lock and urged the boy to turn it by pointing at him and performing the motion on the air.

Riou approached it and the moment he turned the key, he found himself in a different place. The room and the large woman were gone.

Looking around, he could see many strange apparatus made of glass and many colorful crystals and stones. On the table in front of him, the same box could be seen where he was still holding the crystal key on its lock. On the side of the room some flasks with strange powders deposited in a cabinet with writings on them.

Turning around, Riou noticed a vast library connected to the laboratory. The place seemed big as he walked through the corridors filled with bookcases.

After a few steps, he began to listen to voices. A male and female seemed to be discussing something not too far away.

He followed them through the bookshelves, he could see a room with a few chairs, a fireplace. Two people were sitting down with books in the lap discussing something.

Approaching the two, he promptly recognized them: it was Max and Eleanor. “Hello?” said the boy loudly for their surprise.

Max promptly closed the book and rushed to greet the boy. But as he spoke to him, Riou just pointed to his chest. Noticing it, Max made a surprised face and stopped speaking. He quickly moved away and moved his hand so the boy would accompany him.

Eleanor followed as well.

The place they were was huge, and after a few corridors they finally arrived at what seemed to be a small blacksmith. Ores and metals were displayed on the shelves nearby. To the side, held on the wall by a glass jar with hundreds of small copper plates. Max took one from the jar and showed it to Riou.

He put it at the stone table and approached it with his finger, the metal began to immediately heat up as a small but potent fire began to erupt from the magus' finger.

Remembering the spell, Riou looked at him in surprise, it was the one he showed the Magus at the blacksmith shop in Longart.

As the metal was heated the magus took a small hammer and a small chisel and began to carve a single rune at the copper plate. Once he was finished he dropped it in water to cool down and then put it back on the table.

He then rushed back to the library and grabbed a large book with a gray hardcover. He put both side by side on a table there.

With his hand on the book and the other at the plate with the rune, he began a long elven chant, the words on the cover and in between the pages began to glow as if everything was made of magical runes..

The rune at plate began to glow as well and as Max finished the chant, the glow vanished almost completely.

He then attached cords to it and gave it to Riou, he immediately put it on.

“So? Can you understand me?” said Riou to the mage, the old man smiled.

“Of course my boy! Who do you think I am? I wasn’t expecting you so soon… I believe everything went well in Allard?” inquired the magus.

“Yeah, it was easy…” said the boy already looking at the book with great interest. “I will tell you all about it but… what is this book?” he said inquisitively.

Smiling the magus opened the book. “This is the Elven Nomicon for the common tongue of Allard and the Norse. Here are catalogued all the words and their meaning for that tongue”

“A magical dictionary?” said the boy to the Mage. “How does it work ? How did you create this new necklace?”

“Well, the elves created this book to be able to understand the common tongue without having everyone go through the learning process. So by using it I can create magic able to translate the common tongue into anyone’s native language and vice versa and then storing the spell in the magic rune” said the magus.

“But isn’t that a mind spell? Isn’t that dangerous?” questioned the boy.

Magus thought for a moment. “Well, I must confess that this book is a bit more complicated than that. Mind spells are very dangerous indeed, but only between minds, these spells operate on the sound itself and not inside the mind of the listener.”

“Hum…” The boy pondered for a moment. “So you just insert the spell in this rune? What does this rune here mean?”

“This one? It means the common tongue in elven.” added the Magus.

“So there is a correlation to the rune meaning and the spell it holds?” said the boy contemplating the rune.

“Exactly, the magic doesn’t quite stabilize in the rune if there is no correlation,” replied the Mage, excitedly explaining the intricacies of enchanting to the boy.

Eleanor kept watching with a smile. It was very rare to see Max so excited around someone.

“Did you see?” said Max, showing the fire spell for forging once again. “Took me a few days to grasp the concept, but finally I’m able to do it as well.”

Eleanor puffed “Days? Try a month of constant attempts and swearing,” she said suddenly from behind.

“Riou, you remember Eleanor right? Forgive me but I have told her about you so she could help me in the research that we talked about. She is a great mage and scholar. Her knowledge can be very helpful to understand what happened,” added the Magus.

The boy nodded, he clearly trusted Max enough for that.

“It’s good to see you well Eleanor,” said the boy, finally greeting her.

“So you are the one I heard so much about… it’s hard to believe in everything that this old fool told me, so come, let’s sit down for a moment and talk. You two can play later” she said, moving towards the other room with chairs, near the fireplace.

“We’ve been closed in here for too long without any news. Please, do tell us what happened in Allard since we left” said the woman, sitting down and looking at the boy.

More comfortable, Riou told them the encounter in the mine and with the undying mage. He then removed the black stone covered in cloth from the pouch and put it on a small table near the chairs.

“This is what he was holding… and this stone was killing someone in the last city with some sort of death spell, I felt it creeping towards the man’s heart, he probably tried to use it” said the boy, uncovering the stone.

Maximilian’s eyes widened while Eleanor looked with interest at the stone.

“This… this is an Argonian summoning stone,” said the mage approaching it to look at the rune.

“Darkweaver…” said the magus reading the rune. “This explains why the man would have died. If the mana to summon the Darkweaver is not enough, the shadow monster will claim the summoner’s life as tribute for daring to control it.”

Riou looked interested at the magus, he clearly wanted to hear more about it.

“The Darkweaver is a shadow monster. He is much more powerful than the fiends you’ve encountered in the mine. His magic can manipulate the shadows and make them affect the physical world with disastrous effects, thus the name” added the magus, approaching the stone with care.

“If you don’t mind, I will put this into a proper receptacle … to avoid any possible accident” he said looking at Riou, remembering the mana crystal incident.

Riou leaned back with a smile when he suddenly remembered something. “Ohh, I forgot to tell you… Brigantium was attacked by a mixed army of orcs and goblins. There was a mage wearing the same robes as the twilight mages amidst them. He has done something to the orcs and transformed one into a giant monster and pushed them to attack the city somehow.”

Eleanor looked astonished at Maximilian who listened with care. “I didn’t really ask the mage what happened or what his angle was as I assumed it was just an attempt to weaken Allard. Brigantium could feed the whole country alone, it would be a disaster to have lost the city to them.”

Riou continued “To be honest, I was not that interested in their motives. And since most of the army was killed, the threat was completely erased.”

Eleanor widened their eyes. “What happened to the city?” she asked.

“The city is fine, the orc army died and the mage behind it was killed…” he paused for a moment, remembering something again. “Oh, Eileen, Therese and Leona are coming here as well, hope you don’t mind. If you don’t want them to know about your hideout we can meet them upstairs in the inn” added the boy as if it was nothing.

Eleanor looked completely perplexed at Maximilian, she was clearly not following everything that was being discussed. Especially how the lioness and the princess of Allard were even part of the story, was beyond her. The old mage just smiled and looked at Eleanor with a smirk, thinking ‘I told you he was something else’

She turned to the boy once again. “Eileen as in princess Eileen of Allard? And Therese as in the Great Lioness Therese? They are coming here?”

Riou nodded. “Yes, the very same.” He looked around once more. “Since you two are down here for a while now, I take everything on this side has been taken care of already?”

“You mean the spies in the North right? Maybe, I met with Torwald and explained the situation to him… I suspected a couple of Lords. Ephil was certain of a few and quickly seized them… after some encouragement they told about their hideouts and the agents' locations. Everyone was dealt with in a single night, all but one” concluded the Magus.

“Are you sure or you just suspect him?” questioned the boy.

“It’s more than a suspicion. Lord Brahm… he is a mysterious man, always one step ahead of everyone else, I can’t help but feel like he is hiding something dark, and I don’t like it.”

Riou widened his eyes by the name he heard.

“But Ephil assured me he had nothing to do with it… I still did investigate him on my own, but could find nothing linking him to the council… yet. But I’m close, I can feel it.”

Riou smiled “Well, I’m with Ephil on this. I highly doubt Brahn has anything to do with the council… but we will talk about him later. Did you find something about my situation in your books?”

Eleanor listened to the conversation while looking at Max, completely in awe by how they could talk so openly and dismissively about such serious matters. Going from one subject to the next so quickly and without reservations.

Noticing her gaze, the magus just laughed, shaking his head briefly side to side. “Is he or is he not exactly how I told you?” He then stood up.

“Follow me Riou, I will show you around while we wait for the others. You still didn’t tell me why they are accompanying you though… And speaking of showing you around, how do you know we were down beneath the earth?” said the Magus.

Riou pointed around. “The lack of windows, the strange high ceiling and the temperature is very different in here, I just hope you have good ventilation going on” said the boy standing up and following the mage while Eleanor observed them.

“How did you make these lights, I can see very well, but I barely see any light source.”

“That’s Magelight on the corners of the walls. It’s a small rock when imbued by mana will cast a long and almost imperceptible light spell. It’s widely used in mage quarters like these. There is one nearby in the kitchen. Let me show you” the magus said excitedly.

“Sure, you also need to show me exactly how you enchanted this necklace… I really need to know how to do it” added Riou.

“Yes, now that you mention it… how did you lose the first necklace I gave you?” questioned the mage walking beside the boy.

“It’s a long story… and a very shameful one. I saw it coming with a week’s notice and still fell for the oldest trick in the book... I will tell you all about it over some drinks.”

They walked and even before they reached the kitchen, both were already drawn to another of Maximilian’s gadgets, already talking about magic and physics. Eleanor smiled, Maximilian really looked like a boy being visited by his best friend for the first time.

-------------------------------------------------- Twilight Shadow Council

The shadows flickered once more at the hall of the strange room.

“Allard’s princess surfaced in the North. She is most likely to appear in their summer festival” said the shadow known as Tessai.

“Why do we need the princess now? The blow has already been delivered in Longart” replied another shadow.

“She will be useful once the current monarchs die. You know how the populace are. They will accept the new ruler more easily if some of the bloodline continues. She will be a good asset in the near future.” Tessai once again spoke.

“Who do we have in Thanes right now? Have our contacts been re-established in the region?” said another one.

“No… not yet. I’m the one closer to the city, their festivals will begin soon so I will go there myself, I will ensure the princess is captured this time.” Said the shadowy figure speaking for the first time that meeting.

“That’s not like you Arstos, why not send one of yours disciples instead?” questioned one of the shadows.

“I know why” Said Tessai, “Because Thanes is the home of the Great Magus. We know he is still alive and is a good friend of king Elrik and Ephil. Arstos here thinks there might be a good chance that the mage will surface in an attempt to protect the princess”.

“I see, he wants vengeance from the magus that crushed his plans long ago” added the shadow.

“Not only will he be able to ensure the capture of the princess but will also kill the Mage, if he appears” replied one of the shadows approving the overkill approach.

The master shadow flickered “Do not forget to gather information on the item that the magus might possess before killing him. We need to find it at all costs!”

The shadows disappeared one by one. Alone, the sinister one at the center summoned another spell.

An image of a man with a clear hair cut and trimmed beard appeared, he was wearing an aggressive set of black leather uniform.

“What?” said the man clearly angered by being called.

“The plan is going smoothly. The princess will be taken and Allard will crumble under the pressure.” Said the master shadow.

“The item. Have you found it yet?” asked the man abruptly.

“No, not yet, but we think the Magus has it, and he will be found soon enough”

“I gave you all you asked for and more. You assured me that you could handle this request.”

“Yes… Lord Harmon, we will find it soon enough”

“Do not contact me again until you have it”