26 Misjudgmen
---------------------------------- Leona's View
"Therese's eyes changed once again… she is enraged, she saw something bad… he Is of evil nature. She didn't like the boy one bit" Thought Leona seeing Therese's reaction, but to her surprise Therese continued after calming down shortly after…
• "I see…" she said to the boy before turning around and getting back to the table, followed by Leona.
• "What happened Therese? I have never seen you show that much aggression towards anyone…" Said Leona sitting down at the table with Therese who seemed distant.
There was no response from Therese who looked the other way with her elbow on the table and resting her chin on her hand.
• "Therese?" Asked Leona again puzzled…
Therese's mind was elsewhere. Leona looked back at the boy seriously who was also looking at them.
"Why would Syldis protect you if Therese's reaction was so serious?" She thought while looking at him.
Leona knew Syldis was not a beast descendant so her instinct was not as strong as the true beast men, but still… she should be able to tell that the boy was bad news if Therese's reaction was so strong.
A moment passed and Therese moved… Leona looking at her once more tried again…
• "Why were you furious with the boy? What happened?" – She asked.
Therese looked at her with a serious face… - "I was not…" she said calmly.
• "What do you mean? I saw your eyes and your face… They changed and I felt you were about to attack the boy" Said Leona rapidly
Therese smiled faintly… "What is funny about it? What happened that made her react like that…" Leona thought to herself trying to understand Therese's behavior…
Didn't take long for Syldis and the boy to approach their table.
• "I see you calmed down Therese… I know you mean well but that was reckless, what would you do if you injured him?" Said Syldis frowning while putting a big plate filled with stacked pieces of roasted meat on the table. All pieces seemed to be legs of an animal with bone with thin meat in one end and a thick thigh like mass of meat on the other. It was clearly intended to be eaten with bare hands.
Therese smiled brightly for the first time… - "It's good to see you haven't changed Syldis… not one bit since the last time I saw you… I apologize, I was reckless… that will not happen again." Said Therese in her calm tone.
Syldis sat down beside Therese and gestured to Riou to sit beside Leona.
Syldis nodded and smiled once again. – "Let's eat, then Riou will tell you how the blacksmith was able to make such swords." Said the big woman looking at Riou who looked at her with an uncertain expression.
Therese was looking at the meat while Leona looked at Therese… Leona had to wait for Therese to take the first piece as a sign of respect for the stronger. It was in their nature to follow the leader's orders, some clans more than others, but it was common sense throughout the clans that the strongest has the right to be first to choose the food… A sacred tradition in their lands. Syldis having spent a long time amongst them knew of such tradition and also waited for Therese…
A few moments passed and Therese showed no signs of moving…
The meal went silent for a while. Riou wasn't hungry but forced himself to eat at least a little, so he reached for a small piece on the side of the dish and took it in his hands.
Leona frowned immediately while Syldis smiled – "It's customary with the beast men for the strongest to have priority in serving" She said looking at Riou that was clearly unaware of the tradition.
While that conversation was happening Therese reached for her piece as well right after Riou. Leona looked at her surprised that she wasn't bothered about the boy's lack of manners at all.
After a few moments of silence, while eating, Leona noticed that the boy seemed distant. She felt as something was bothering him, and judging by Syldis' looks at him, she did so as well.
- "You know, Riou and Maximilian were the ones to bring the living metal ingots to the blacksmith, perhaps they could help you to get more so you could craft the sword you wanted Therese." Said Syldis in a cheerful tone trying to lighten up the mood.
Therese looked at the boy expectantly for the answer…
He sighed before speaking – "It's possible... but we might need Max's help for that…" Answered the boy unsure.
"So it's true what the blacksmith said… I can't believe it, who is this boy? I can't take it anymore… I need to know what Therese sensed… but I will have to see it for myself…"
• "Riou… may I…" Leona said turning her body in his direction, raising her hand up towards the boy and waiting for his response…
The boy looked at her suspiciously, he was clearly not so fond of the idea… but despite that he slowly complied with her request lowering his head allowing her to touch him.
Leona concentrated… her mind went blank and all her focus were on her instincts. She was paying attention to what her body could tell from sensing the boy.
Therese took the mugs of water from her side of the table and hold them up, one in each hand…
Leona's hand lowered and touched his head…
Sheer terror assaulted her whole being and a breath escaped her lungs… she felt as if she was touching a monster… she saw herself immersed in a dark night amidst a never ending field, the sky was completely black… her hair stood up on end throughout her whole body.
She bared her fangs and growled towards the unseen beast in front of her… she could not see it for the moment, but she could feel its breath… it was hot and like a strong wind… focusing her sight she was able to see what seemed a mouth closed, but sprouting out of it giant fangs… it was so big and so dangerously close that she felt she could be eaten alive at any sudden movement… she understood she couldn't do anything to escape that immense jaw… it's body was shrouded by darkness and she could not see its format or even its length… afraid, her eyes looked up instinctively… Searching for the eyes of the beast… she saw two giant spheres: round dark blue eyes shining high above her in the black veil in the sky. Looking at her from above… their eyes met…
The dark blue eyes were big as the full moon in the night sky, it's color and depth resembled the oceans… looking at them for a moment, her restlessness subsided as she felt sadness within them… a sadness that she somehow related to… "He is lost… seeking home" she thought of the being as if it was an animal that did not belong to where it was… that feeling left a strong impression on her… By looking at them she knew… those eyes were serene, despite the sadness they also had the spark of wisdom and conformity as well… they passed a strange soothing feeling to her as they had no ill intent… the tension finally vanished… her breathing became normal as she realized his nature…
It took a moment after touching the boy's head for Leona to calm down completely…
She was a complete different person afterwards… her serious expression vanished and a lingering sadness seemed to have taken its place.
She looked at Therese who smiled at her and nodded satisfied at her disciple.
----------------------- Riou's view
The moment she touched his head she had a muscular spasm that rocked the table and knocked down Riou's mug to the ground. Luckily it was empty… She bared her fangs and her body hair stood on end while she growled towards the boy as if a wild wolf cowered in a corner ready to defend itself to death if necessary.
It took but a moment and she calmed down… Her eyes were wide and surprised… she immediately looked at Therese who just smiled towards her.
"These women are crazy… what the hell is going on here? Is this really necessary every time?" Riou thought to himself looking at them. He then looked at Syldis for an explanation to that reaction…
Syldis looked puzzled at him… she was clearly unaware to why, she probably never saw such a thing before…
Leona's behavior changed immediately towards Riou as if a switch was flicked… she did not look at him directly anymore… She was even trying to avoid his gaze by looking to the other side…
They clearly didn't want to talk about that subject realized Riou.
Syldis was the first to talk once again, trying to change the subject she said loudly and cheerfully - "Therese and Leona were at the academy to the south lecturing on sword fighting when they heard about the swords being on sale in the capital. Do you mind to show them your swords?"
Riou saw no problem with that and draw his blades putting them on the table…
Therese's eye widened as she looked at the metal working. She leaned forward and looked at Riou… - "May I?" gesturing she wanted to hold them.
Riou nodded.
Therese took the longsword and looked at the metal, the lines and balance… it was a terrific sword like she had never seen before.
Riou noticed the desire of having one of those in her eyes, but judging by her weapon of choice, she'd like a great sword even more - like the one she was carrying.
• "If you find the Magus… would you be able to forge this metal?" Said Therese looking at the sword with great interest.
• "Yeah… probably yes." – He answered unsure if it was ok to say he could do it by himself, so he thought it was better to add a constraint to the equation.
• "I heard from Syldis he is missing and that you are looking for him" Therese said putting the sword down…
Leona was looking at the blades on the table the whole time, but did not dare to touch them.
Riou looked at Syldis… she didn't disclose information to them which meant she was following Max indication faithfully…
• "I'm still looking for him." He said looking at Syldis.
• "That's unfortunate… we'd like to help you with your search if you don't mind… it is very important for us to acquire the metal." Said Therese lowering her head…
Syldis eyes gleamed with excitement…
"Oh crap… this is the same thing that happened with Viktor. I need to divert Syldis attention. I need to say yes before Syldis starts to talk and say crazy stuff like they have to help me…. Maybe later on I will visit the blacksmith with more ingots, so he can craft them their weapons and leave me be. The escort from Viktor was troublesome enough already."
Riou smiled forcefully – "Sure… no problem" he said – "but before that I need to take care of some matters at the castle. I don't know when I will be able to resume my search" he said forcefully.
Therese nodded and looked at Leona – "We will follow, we need to go to the castle as well, let's prepare for departure." Said Therese standing up from the table.
"This is unexpected… but oh well, the castle is big I can quickly get away without a trace if I have to…" He thought to himself while smiling to them.
Leona pushed her chair back and went to great lengths to not touch or bother Riou who was sitting beside her.
The two women went upstairs to prepare their belongings for departure.
Riou was still with Syldis at the table. The big woman was looking at him concerned - "Now that they are gone… tell me, what happened child?" she said.
• "Nothing, I'm just tired that's all." he said.
Syldis frowned in anger…
• "I know, I know… the lie thing right… It's just… You know… when stuff happens you were not aware of? Like, you thought of them, eventually, but as a gag you know? Nothing really serious... Then suddenly you see something and you start thinking those things seriously and get mad because of what you saw… and it makes you furious, and things get complicated… when actually it should have not concerned you at all in the first place" he said mixing his thoughts and spouting things out of context, things that only made sense to him.
Syldis smiled… - "It sounds like a girl is involved… is it who I think it is?" she asked.
Riou sighed - "The princess…" he said reluctantly. – "I don't fancy her in that way… I think... but she is gorgeous beyond belief. I think I may have begun to feel infatuated by her, at some point, you know…"
Syldis smiled tenderly and leaned in his direction…
• "I thought as much. She was dragging you around, a young boy like yourself is easily swayed by a beautiful woman. I don't know what happened, but don't worry, you are young. You are supposed to feel this way at this age… give it time, time fixes everything" She said in a motherly tone.
"She does sounds like a mother… I wonder why she is like this" he thought
• "I guess you are right…" he said smiling with hints of sadness in his eyes.
• "Take your room upstairs. Try to rest for a bit while the two prepare. You will feel better when you wake up." She said tapping him on the head. Riou nodded and went upstairs.
It was the room Syldis had reserved for him. She wasn't allowing anyone to take it.
Having an idea, Riou put one half of the portal crystal on top of the table, and pointed it to the wall near the window.
"This could be a good exit spot… it will save a lot of travel time." He thought to himself before laying down in the bed. He was not tired but it felt good to lay down and rest for a while so he could put his thoughts in order.
A few moments passed and someone knocked at his door.
• "It's open…" he said out loud.
------------------------------------------------- In the throne room
The king was concerned. The knights were present with exception of Copperford from the Red banner and Bhalrom. From the mages, only Ursula was present. Together with them was a messenger.
• "Yes my king… from the forest, north of Brigantium… our scouts estimated an army of 3000 goblins and a 1000 orcs but that's only what we could see my lord, we estimate more hidden in the woods…"
The king looked up – "Will we not catch a break? It's one thing after the other" Said the king clearly tired of bad news. They were still recovering from the losses in the Mine incursion… but council mages were not easy to find, and there were lots of politics involved.
Ursula stepped forward – "My king, I know it's a dire moment, but I do not think this is random chance, the timing is too perfect, and we cannot exclude the hand of our enemies in this matter. I know that Bhalrom and Copperford will be able to revert the situation, they are aided by Lilly and Serena as well. We need to be on guard my liege."
The king nodded - "The news that this… shadow organization… the Twilight council helping Argos is indeed disturbing. Have you discovered anything else from the prisoner, Rodrick? Did he know what happened with the boy?" Asked the king.
Rodrick bowed – "No my lord but he is still under interrogation for the past few days. I don't think he knows anything else" Said the knight.
------------------------------------------------ Eileen's View.
"Riou went to the Tavern…" was the thought that was in Eileen's head. She felt a need to find him immediately and this time nothing would stop her. She didn't understand very well to why she was compelled so strongly, it was easier to wait for him to come back to the castle, but she just couldn't wait. Using the official badge she left the castle and went to the Drinking Bear Tavern.
It took a while for her to arrive there as she walked with caution in the streets. It was already past noon when she entered the tavern, and as soon she entered she spotted Syldis by the counter cleaning some plates.
The big woman saw her but continued her work while the princess approached.
• "Is Riou here?" Eileen asked preoccupied. The princess was clearly concerned trying to find him.
Syldis sighed - "Upstairs… last door to the right…" She said without interrupting her work, not very pleased…
Eileen bowed her head in appreciation and rushed upstairs.
• "Kids…" Said Syldis out loud letting a small laugh out.
Eileen stood in front of the door and knocked. Riou's voice came from inside
• "It's open…"
She took a deep breath and opened it. As she came inside she saw Riou laying down on a bed. The moment he saw her he jumped from the bed with a surprised expression. Eileen closed the door behind her. He was about to say something but refrained himself from doing so...
A few moments of unpleasant silence filled the air. Somehow she couldn't find the words to say anything, she feared what he could think of her.
"I should have seen it coming. Fought it off. I'm a failure as a warrior and Riou saw it…" the thoughts rushed in Eileen's head.
Riou finally spoke in a calm, slow voice – "So… your… 'Friend' from earlier… You never mentioned him before…" said the boy awkwardly.
Eileen expression became furious - "That man is no friend of mine, he challenged me by the rites. He came in while I was training" she looked down, unable to look directly at him as a mix of disgust and hatred filled her as she continued - "he… he took advantage of me… I was not prepared… I'd never think he'd use such cheap tactics… I'm a failure… and ashamed… my honor was defiled…" she said as she looked up once again and tears began to flow from her crystal blue eyes… it was long ago the last time she had shed a tear, and now them wouldn't stop flowing…
She looked at a seemingly calm Riou… but his eyes were strange, they were wide open looking at her… soon his gaze became distant as his focus was nowhere… a flame seemed to be raging on within those dark blue eyes.
Suddenly the door was kicked in with extreme violence, to the point of shattering. Eileen scared by the noise turned towards it trying to wipe her tears from her face… She saw two women with big swords in their hands. One was blond with golden eyes with vertical pupils. The other had long brown hair and a scar on her right eye.
Eileen was surprised as both women came in menacingly, and more strangely they were pointing their weapons at her.
• "Who are you?" – Said the blond woman calmly pointing the tip of her sword at Eileen.
Eileen tried to recompose herself wiping the last tears and elegantly at the tip of the sword she replied gracefully
• "I'm Eileen Strongheart"
The brown haired woman interjected looking at the blond one she said in a low voice - "He is going to the castle… fast" The blond nodded confirming it without taking her eyes from Eileen.
Syldis rushed into the room. As she heard the noise she quickly came to see what was going on and as she saw Leona and Therese weapons drawn towards Eileen she quickly put herself between them.
• "Therese! Put the weapons away… First you almost kill the boy and now you are threatening the princess!? Stop this already!"
Therese and Leona lowered their weapons looking at Syldis – "Is she an acquaintance of Riou?" She asked, Syldis nodded as it was an obvious question - "He is hanging around this girl for a while now - they train together at the castle." She answered.
Therese sheathed her sword - "I apologize… I thought…" She paused before continuing with another line of thought - "Can you explain what happened?" She asked looking at Eileen.
Eileen was confused - "We were talking…" she turned around towards where Riou was to get his input on the matter, but to her surprise he was gone. She looked around but was unable to find him.
Therese seeing the lost princess searching for the boy, she sighed - "He is most likely at the castle by now"
She turned to Leona – "Let's go" she said moving out.
---------------------------------------------- Askjell's view
"Today was a good day… my plan is going well… First I will mess with her headt… and then with her body… her mind will shatter and she will have no other alternative than to concede the duel to me…" he thought walking towards the guest rooms.
"She will pay… pay a 100 fold the shame she made me suffer 10 years ago. I was a joke in the north. A man losing to a girl… she will pay… and she will be mine at all costs." he continued his thoughts.
He looked at the rapier he was carrying from the training hall "This is a remarkable work. It is probably a gift from the king to the princess… she sure is spoiled… I don't know how good this metal is, but I bet this would fetch a high price in Thanes for the details alone…" he thought as he arrived at his room while looking at the rapier.
He went inside and threw the sword on top of the table near the door…
"Perhaps I could use this sword as a way into the princess bedroom this night. She is naive enough to let a man inside, if he is to return her sword she certainly will allow it… from there I could try another hand at her… even if she is able to resists I can scream and draw attention… everyone will know she allowed a man inside her chambers in the middle of the night… her reputation will be ruined, her honor gone… and the king will have no other alternative than giving her to me…" He thought to himself looking at the sword and smiling deviously.
Someone knocked at the door. He went to open it and noticed a boy. After a better look Askjell recognized him "It's the boy that follows the princess" he thought smiling to himself "I will play a bit with him as well" Askjell allowed him in.
• "You are the one from this morning. I didn't know you worked for the castle" Said the noble full of himself.
The boy simply smiled.
• "The princess stayed with me after you left you know. But she never mentioned your name… what is it anyway?" completed the noble in a mocking tone
The boy seemed uncaring to the remark, and quickly barging inside the room he noticing the sword on top of the table he pointed at it.
• "That? That is the princess' sword as you may know… she said she will be coming to get it tonight… late… tonight... but I don't think a boy like you can understand it… women can be insatiable sometimes…" he said with lust in his tone…
This time the provocation clearly had an effect on the boy, he was twitching and clearly trying desperately to control himself…
"I can't believe this wimp was allowed to challenge her… he is about to cry just from that?" thought the noble looking at the boy "He is so affected by this taunts… poor thing…" thought the noble pleased with himself
The boy approached the sword and calmly said… in an uncaring tone that seemed to hide a deep anger within…
• "I must confess… on my way here I was tempted to end you right where you stand, no silly presentations, no talks... just erase you from existence… sent you into oblivion… nobody would know… but in the way here I managed to calm down a little. I'm civilized man you know…" Said the boy in front of the rapier on the table… - "But you are really, really making it difficult… Plan A seems more and more compelling" Completed the boy…
Askjell laughed at him "He is mad becauce of the fact I will be taking his princess away… completely delusional! He thinks he can win against me, he has gone mad with envy!"
• "But the fact is that simply erasing your filthy being from existence would indeed bring a lot of questions…So I decided to do this by the book… I will challenge you in front of you people for the right of facing Eileen… If I win you forfeit your right of challenging her ever again… you will not get near her… or so help me heavens you and whoever stands beside you will be killed where you stand" Said the boy with a dark and eerie tone… Askjell was not able to see his face… but the promise did sent shivers down his spine…
Riou took the sword from the table - "This sword here is mine…" The boy continued finally turning around towards the Askjell who could see his serious face…
"Ho, so the sword is not hers? Did oversell it? No matter, he is furious! This boy is too easy to read, he is desperate trying to keep the princess to himself. He is in love with that block of ice that is called a princess… and now he is trying to scare me off… so predictable…" thought the noble.
• "I doubt a commoner like yourself could have the coin to buy such a sword… And why should I accept the challenge of a boy such yourself?" He said.
• "I thought the Norseman were proud warriors that never backed off from a challenge… But I can't deny it's a wise decision to be scared of me" Said Riou mockingly
"This damn, cocky boy… I will make you eat your words… you will bleed… I will take that sword from your cold body" he thought angered… and calming down he said - "I know you tried to challenge the princess as well… and you lost… you have no chance of winning and are desperate… but if you wish to die… Just say when and I will teach you some manners! But don't regret if you lose your head in the process…" said Askjell angered.
• "What about now? I will be waiting by the arena outside… come once you are ready" Replied the boy walking away holding the rapier…
"You are dead" thought Askjell with a smile while the boy left.
----------------------------------- The Trio going to the castle
Therese, Leona were followed by Eileen while rushing to the castle…
• "Why do you think he went to the castle?" Asked Eileen
• "I sense his presence in that direction" – Terese answered
• "What do you mean, can you feel everyone's presence?" – Asked Eileen again
• "No… not like this… so far I could only when he is angry… What did you say to get him this mad?" Replied Therese trying to understand what could trigger him so much. But before Eileen could answer something caught Therese and Leona attention.
They were at the entrance gates getting a carriage to go up to the castle when suddenly Therese felt a stronger surge coming from the castle. She and Leona simultaneously looked at the castle
• "How can a boy that small have such a presence?" Asked Leona - "It feels like he is about to level the castle's plateau to the ground" She commented.
• "Seems like he found what he was after, if he was angered before… now he is furious" said Therese. Eileen tried to understand but it made no sense for her, how could he do such a thing, and how were they able to sense him… she was still figuring out how they could be this certain.
• "He is certainly mysterious" Said Therese to Leona… and turning to Eileen she continued –"Where did he come from Princess?" Asked Therese.
The princess was taken by surprise – "From the south, I think? He didn't say… nobody really knew where he is from… All that was said was that he was not from around here" she answered recalling what she heard when the boy was found.
• "From the south? You mean Argos lands? How did he end up in the north?" questioned Therese
• "Something about a caravan… but it was not clear…" She said
• "How was his home called? Who taught him?" Therese asked
• "I… I don't know…" Said Eileen realizing how little she knew about him
• "I see… so what can you tell us about him?" Therese insisted.
The princess didn't know how to answer that either… she realized she knew nothing about him. She didn't even care to ask details of his past life. All she did was use him to improve herself… she was using him… That realization left a sour taste in her mouth…
Was all the interest in the boy was because of his prowess and skill? Questions became to pop on her head…
She didn't really know him. This last week he was gone, was she preoccupied by his wellbeing or was about when would he be back to continue her training?
Doubts and uncertainty filled the Princess' mind to which she didn't have a clear answer.
Focusing on Riou she at least had a few certainties, she did like being around him, he was very different than everyone else… and the fact that he was angry with what happened and rushed to the castle because of her, made her really happy.
Therese noticed the princess' silence.
She then knew the princess could not help further to understand the mystery that was the boy and stopped asking.
They were almost at the castle main gates by that time.
• "Why are you going after him?" Questioned the princess intrigued after recovering from her thoughts.
• "He said he could help me with something I searched for a long time… and also I feel like he could disappear if I don't keep an eye on him." Therese replied looking at the castle's entrance.
Finally arriving at the castle main gates the princess led the two inside.
Didn't take long for the group to notice a commotion, many guests that arrived with Askjell were moving and gathering around the arena in the garden. They followed them outside and there they saw Riou on top of the arena with a serious face and arms crossed waiting for a blonde man to prepare on the opposite side of the arena. All the guests were cheering for the blond man, calling his name
- "Askjell! Askjell! Askjell! Askjell!" a few chanted in unison
He was using a big round wooden shield and a sword, it was not very long, seemed to match the shields lenghts. He also was wearing thick woolen clothes designed to withstand slashes and a helmet that covered his whole head except the front where his eyes and mouth were.
Leona looked at Therese – "Want me to stop this?"
Therese looked at her and then back to the Arena – "No. I'm curious to see how he handles this" she replied looking briefly at the princess.
Eileen was clearly happy and not worried at all.
"She at least has good senses, she knows he is very strong and is not concerned… Syldis could learn a thing or two from this girl…" thought Therese looking at her and smiling faintly… her impression of Eileen improved.
The fight was about to start. Therese's attention was focused on Riou as the man with shield and sword approached the center.
• "Are you sure you don't need a shield? I don't want you crying afterwards…" – he said to Riou who didn't move or replied.
• "Very well then…" he said taking position as another man came to the middle of the arena and shouted
• "Hereby the duel for the right to challenge the princess will begin! The loser shall resign from the right and never try it again! Begin!"
Riou unsheathed his long sword and pointed it to his adversary who was holding his shield to his left side while the sword was free on his right side.
Riou rested his sword on his right shoulder while holding the handle down near his waist, he stood still there as if mocking the shield bearer.
As the norse man advanced towards him the crowd cheered loudly.
He brought the shield in front and the sword on his right side ready for a swing as he approached the unprepared opponent. Once he was close enough, Riou began to move, walking circling him in the direction of the carried shield.
• "Leona… why is he circling the opponent like that?" Asked Therese testing her disciple.
• "This way the sword on the right hand will not be able to reach him…" she answered promptly while Eileen's eyes widened. She never fought someone with a shield so she didn't know such technique existed. She only trained and specialized for duels with sword against sword. She began to think on how she'd act if she was fighting against such enemy… after a moment of thinking that movement seemed really clever.
The man didn't like that and tried to bash him with the shield. Riou just kicked him back with strength before he could swing the sword in his direction. The man had trouble to maintain his balance while stepping back, but he did not fall.
Riou continued walking without looking directly at him with his sword at his shoulder… circling the man.
The man rushed at him and by opening his defense he tried to swing horizontally at the boy. Riou quickly elevated his sword and rushed it down very quickly, he aimed the cutting edge specifically at the middle core of the man's sword.
As they clashed, the iron sword was cut in half.
• "Legendary metal…" Said Therese - "An impressive performance… pin point accuracy, the angle of his sword with the opponent's… it was precise…" Complemented Leona. Eileen just heard their remarks impressed by their analysis, and even more by Riou's ability that shined even more at their remarks… she kept her eyes on the fight.
The man was looking at the half sword in his hand, he tossed it aside and looked at one of his man and reached out his hand towards him, as if asking for another sword.
He promptly threw his sword to the challenged noble in the arena. Riou waited and once he was armed again and advancing, Riou shortened the circling going in angle towards the man's shield close enouthg that he was able to hit it with his sword safely
With a series of quick swings at the man's shield, he forced him to defend himself without much vision of where the blows were coming from… Riou began to thrust with the tip of his sword at the shield border, at the innermost border the one near the man's chest and sword, as the shield handle was in its center, the push forced it to turn in its axis, going towards his chest and blocking his right hand movements… ending up completely exposing the norse man right side.
Therese eye's widened as if not believing what she was seeing…
Riou right hand was holding the sword crossed from his right to the man's core, holding its shield in place, so for him to continue any movement he needed to untangle his sword. To do that Riou turned on his axis, in a quick movement he stepped inside the man defenses with his right shoulder blocking the man from removing his shield from that position and sliding to in a quick turn to his right he freed the sword from the left side of the shield to the right. Holding the shield in place with his weight while simultaneously bringing his sword to the right side… he held the shield in that position safely with his left hand and body weight on his left shoulder… he was near Askjell unprotected right arm and completely exposed body, with a free sword in his right hand which was able to reach the man wherever he wanted.
The movement was very quick… to the unaware spectator seemed like a simple thrust followed by a half pirouette that left the boy in a lucky position.
Leona looked at Therese – "What technique was that?"
• "It's a way to fight against shield bearers. It's very complex… look how the shield becomes a hindrance when it's held against the shield bearer wrist? He does not have the strength to counter the opponent's weight with only his right arm in that position… he should have dropped it and moved away as soon as Riou got inside his defense after the trust… now his entire right side is completely exposed to the enemy's weapon… he still didn't realize it but he is unable to reach him with his shorter sword. If this was a real fight the man would be dead" Said Therese without taking her eyes off the fight.
Eileen saw the movements and heard the explanation from Therese… she sure was knowledgeable in swordfights and the fact she was explaining Riou's movement on the go… made them much more impressive to her…
The norse man's sword was trying to reach the boy from above and below the stuck shield, but was completely out of reach, all it could do was go around the shield without a good angle to hit Riou…
Before he could do anything else…
Riou's sword came up from the unprotected side of the man… straight towards his neck.
When Askjell felt the cold piercing pressure on his neck he froze. Riou pushed him backwards as he forced the man to drop the shield with his left hand, still maintaining the sword tip at the Norseman neck he pushed him back even more. As he stepped back and completely let go of the shield, Riou threw it out of the arena.
Riou said no word… his eyes were serious… the man realized the boy was really considering ending his life… He knew he had underestimated the boy greatly.
The crowd in the arena was completely silent….
Suddenly and without a reason, Riou stepped back from the noble, giving him space. The man's first reaction was to bring his hand to his neck, he felt something warm… and pulling his hand up he saw the blood… the boy had put pressure behind it… and indeed drops of blood were coming out of the wound.
Riou taking a few steps away, stood there waiting for Askjell's next move.
The norse man was mad, he was made a fool once again in front of the other warriors, now by a boy… without his shield and with just a sword in his hand he pointed it at Riou menacingly.
• "You forced my hand boy… don't regret it." He said loudly.
Therese sensed mana flowing within the man's body, very weak and unrefined. But enough to strengthen the body. He was improving his physical abilities to try to overcome the boy skill with sheer power and strength.
Leona looked at Therese who did not take her eyes from the arena.
Things would get even more interesting from now on...
"Therese's eyes changed once again… she is enraged, she saw something bad… he Is of evil nature. She didn't like the boy one bit" Thought Leona seeing Therese's reaction, but to her surprise Therese continued after calming down shortly after…
• "I see…" she said to the boy before turning around and getting back to the table, followed by Leona.
• "What happened Therese? I have never seen you show that much aggression towards anyone…" Said Leona sitting down at the table with Therese who seemed distant.
There was no response from Therese who looked the other way with her elbow on the table and resting her chin on her hand.
• "Therese?" Asked Leona again puzzled…
Therese's mind was elsewhere. Leona looked back at the boy seriously who was also looking at them.
"Why would Syldis protect you if Therese's reaction was so serious?" She thought while looking at him.
Leona knew Syldis was not a beast descendant so her instinct was not as strong as the true beast men, but still… she should be able to tell that the boy was bad news if Therese's reaction was so strong.
A moment passed and Therese moved… Leona looking at her once more tried again…
• "Why were you furious with the boy? What happened?" – She asked.
Therese looked at her with a serious face… - "I was not…" she said calmly.
• "What do you mean? I saw your eyes and your face… They changed and I felt you were about to attack the boy" Said Leona rapidly
Therese smiled faintly… "What is funny about it? What happened that made her react like that…" Leona thought to herself trying to understand Therese's behavior…
Didn't take long for Syldis and the boy to approach their table.
• "I see you calmed down Therese… I know you mean well but that was reckless, what would you do if you injured him?" Said Syldis frowning while putting a big plate filled with stacked pieces of roasted meat on the table. All pieces seemed to be legs of an animal with bone with thin meat in one end and a thick thigh like mass of meat on the other. It was clearly intended to be eaten with bare hands.
Therese smiled brightly for the first time… - "It's good to see you haven't changed Syldis… not one bit since the last time I saw you… I apologize, I was reckless… that will not happen again." Said Therese in her calm tone.
Syldis sat down beside Therese and gestured to Riou to sit beside Leona.
Syldis nodded and smiled once again. – "Let's eat, then Riou will tell you how the blacksmith was able to make such swords." Said the big woman looking at Riou who looked at her with an uncertain expression.
Therese was looking at the meat while Leona looked at Therese… Leona had to wait for Therese to take the first piece as a sign of respect for the stronger. It was in their nature to follow the leader's orders, some clans more than others, but it was common sense throughout the clans that the strongest has the right to be first to choose the food… A sacred tradition in their lands. Syldis having spent a long time amongst them knew of such tradition and also waited for Therese…
A few moments passed and Therese showed no signs of moving…
The meal went silent for a while. Riou wasn't hungry but forced himself to eat at least a little, so he reached for a small piece on the side of the dish and took it in his hands.
Leona frowned immediately while Syldis smiled – "It's customary with the beast men for the strongest to have priority in serving" She said looking at Riou that was clearly unaware of the tradition.
While that conversation was happening Therese reached for her piece as well right after Riou. Leona looked at her surprised that she wasn't bothered about the boy's lack of manners at all.
After a few moments of silence, while eating, Leona noticed that the boy seemed distant. She felt as something was bothering him, and judging by Syldis' looks at him, she did so as well.
- "You know, Riou and Maximilian were the ones to bring the living metal ingots to the blacksmith, perhaps they could help you to get more so you could craft the sword you wanted Therese." Said Syldis in a cheerful tone trying to lighten up the mood.
Therese looked at the boy expectantly for the answer…
He sighed before speaking – "It's possible... but we might need Max's help for that…" Answered the boy unsure.
"So it's true what the blacksmith said… I can't believe it, who is this boy? I can't take it anymore… I need to know what Therese sensed… but I will have to see it for myself…"
• "Riou… may I…" Leona said turning her body in his direction, raising her hand up towards the boy and waiting for his response…
The boy looked at her suspiciously, he was clearly not so fond of the idea… but despite that he slowly complied with her request lowering his head allowing her to touch him.
Leona concentrated… her mind went blank and all her focus were on her instincts. She was paying attention to what her body could tell from sensing the boy.
Therese took the mugs of water from her side of the table and hold them up, one in each hand…
Leona's hand lowered and touched his head…
Sheer terror assaulted her whole being and a breath escaped her lungs… she felt as if she was touching a monster… she saw herself immersed in a dark night amidst a never ending field, the sky was completely black… her hair stood up on end throughout her whole body.
She bared her fangs and growled towards the unseen beast in front of her… she could not see it for the moment, but she could feel its breath… it was hot and like a strong wind… focusing her sight she was able to see what seemed a mouth closed, but sprouting out of it giant fangs… it was so big and so dangerously close that she felt she could be eaten alive at any sudden movement… she understood she couldn't do anything to escape that immense jaw… it's body was shrouded by darkness and she could not see its format or even its length… afraid, her eyes looked up instinctively… Searching for the eyes of the beast… she saw two giant spheres: round dark blue eyes shining high above her in the black veil in the sky. Looking at her from above… their eyes met…
The dark blue eyes were big as the full moon in the night sky, it's color and depth resembled the oceans… looking at them for a moment, her restlessness subsided as she felt sadness within them… a sadness that she somehow related to… "He is lost… seeking home" she thought of the being as if it was an animal that did not belong to where it was… that feeling left a strong impression on her… By looking at them she knew… those eyes were serene, despite the sadness they also had the spark of wisdom and conformity as well… they passed a strange soothing feeling to her as they had no ill intent… the tension finally vanished… her breathing became normal as she realized his nature…
It took a moment after touching the boy's head for Leona to calm down completely…
She was a complete different person afterwards… her serious expression vanished and a lingering sadness seemed to have taken its place.
She looked at Therese who smiled at her and nodded satisfied at her disciple.
----------------------- Riou's view
The moment she touched his head she had a muscular spasm that rocked the table and knocked down Riou's mug to the ground. Luckily it was empty… She bared her fangs and her body hair stood on end while she growled towards the boy as if a wild wolf cowered in a corner ready to defend itself to death if necessary.
It took but a moment and she calmed down… Her eyes were wide and surprised… she immediately looked at Therese who just smiled towards her.
"These women are crazy… what the hell is going on here? Is this really necessary every time?" Riou thought to himself looking at them. He then looked at Syldis for an explanation to that reaction…
Syldis looked puzzled at him… she was clearly unaware to why, she probably never saw such a thing before…
Leona's behavior changed immediately towards Riou as if a switch was flicked… she did not look at him directly anymore… She was even trying to avoid his gaze by looking to the other side…
They clearly didn't want to talk about that subject realized Riou.
Syldis was the first to talk once again, trying to change the subject she said loudly and cheerfully - "Therese and Leona were at the academy to the south lecturing on sword fighting when they heard about the swords being on sale in the capital. Do you mind to show them your swords?"
Riou saw no problem with that and draw his blades putting them on the table…
Therese's eye widened as she looked at the metal working. She leaned forward and looked at Riou… - "May I?" gesturing she wanted to hold them.
Riou nodded.
Therese took the longsword and looked at the metal, the lines and balance… it was a terrific sword like she had never seen before.
Riou noticed the desire of having one of those in her eyes, but judging by her weapon of choice, she'd like a great sword even more - like the one she was carrying.
• "If you find the Magus… would you be able to forge this metal?" Said Therese looking at the sword with great interest.
• "Yeah… probably yes." – He answered unsure if it was ok to say he could do it by himself, so he thought it was better to add a constraint to the equation.
• "I heard from Syldis he is missing and that you are looking for him" Therese said putting the sword down…
Leona was looking at the blades on the table the whole time, but did not dare to touch them.
Riou looked at Syldis… she didn't disclose information to them which meant she was following Max indication faithfully…
• "I'm still looking for him." He said looking at Syldis.
• "That's unfortunate… we'd like to help you with your search if you don't mind… it is very important for us to acquire the metal." Said Therese lowering her head…
Syldis eyes gleamed with excitement…
"Oh crap… this is the same thing that happened with Viktor. I need to divert Syldis attention. I need to say yes before Syldis starts to talk and say crazy stuff like they have to help me…. Maybe later on I will visit the blacksmith with more ingots, so he can craft them their weapons and leave me be. The escort from Viktor was troublesome enough already."
Riou smiled forcefully – "Sure… no problem" he said – "but before that I need to take care of some matters at the castle. I don't know when I will be able to resume my search" he said forcefully.
Therese nodded and looked at Leona – "We will follow, we need to go to the castle as well, let's prepare for departure." Said Therese standing up from the table.
"This is unexpected… but oh well, the castle is big I can quickly get away without a trace if I have to…" He thought to himself while smiling to them.
Leona pushed her chair back and went to great lengths to not touch or bother Riou who was sitting beside her.
The two women went upstairs to prepare their belongings for departure.
Riou was still with Syldis at the table. The big woman was looking at him concerned - "Now that they are gone… tell me, what happened child?" she said.
• "Nothing, I'm just tired that's all." he said.
Syldis frowned in anger…
• "I know, I know… the lie thing right… It's just… You know… when stuff happens you were not aware of? Like, you thought of them, eventually, but as a gag you know? Nothing really serious... Then suddenly you see something and you start thinking those things seriously and get mad because of what you saw… and it makes you furious, and things get complicated… when actually it should have not concerned you at all in the first place" he said mixing his thoughts and spouting things out of context, things that only made sense to him.
Syldis smiled… - "It sounds like a girl is involved… is it who I think it is?" she asked.
Riou sighed - "The princess…" he said reluctantly. – "I don't fancy her in that way… I think... but she is gorgeous beyond belief. I think I may have begun to feel infatuated by her, at some point, you know…"
Syldis smiled tenderly and leaned in his direction…
• "I thought as much. She was dragging you around, a young boy like yourself is easily swayed by a beautiful woman. I don't know what happened, but don't worry, you are young. You are supposed to feel this way at this age… give it time, time fixes everything" She said in a motherly tone.
"She does sounds like a mother… I wonder why she is like this" he thought
• "I guess you are right…" he said smiling with hints of sadness in his eyes.
• "Take your room upstairs. Try to rest for a bit while the two prepare. You will feel better when you wake up." She said tapping him on the head. Riou nodded and went upstairs.
It was the room Syldis had reserved for him. She wasn't allowing anyone to take it.
Having an idea, Riou put one half of the portal crystal on top of the table, and pointed it to the wall near the window.
"This could be a good exit spot… it will save a lot of travel time." He thought to himself before laying down in the bed. He was not tired but it felt good to lay down and rest for a while so he could put his thoughts in order.
A few moments passed and someone knocked at his door.
• "It's open…" he said out loud.
------------------------------------------------- In the throne room
The king was concerned. The knights were present with exception of Copperford from the Red banner and Bhalrom. From the mages, only Ursula was present. Together with them was a messenger.
• "Yes my king… from the forest, north of Brigantium… our scouts estimated an army of 3000 goblins and a 1000 orcs but that's only what we could see my lord, we estimate more hidden in the woods…"
The king looked up – "Will we not catch a break? It's one thing after the other" Said the king clearly tired of bad news. They were still recovering from the losses in the Mine incursion… but council mages were not easy to find, and there were lots of politics involved.
Ursula stepped forward – "My king, I know it's a dire moment, but I do not think this is random chance, the timing is too perfect, and we cannot exclude the hand of our enemies in this matter. I know that Bhalrom and Copperford will be able to revert the situation, they are aided by Lilly and Serena as well. We need to be on guard my liege."
The king nodded - "The news that this… shadow organization… the Twilight council helping Argos is indeed disturbing. Have you discovered anything else from the prisoner, Rodrick? Did he know what happened with the boy?" Asked the king.
Rodrick bowed – "No my lord but he is still under interrogation for the past few days. I don't think he knows anything else" Said the knight.
------------------------------------------------ Eileen's View.
"Riou went to the Tavern…" was the thought that was in Eileen's head. She felt a need to find him immediately and this time nothing would stop her. She didn't understand very well to why she was compelled so strongly, it was easier to wait for him to come back to the castle, but she just couldn't wait. Using the official badge she left the castle and went to the Drinking Bear Tavern.
It took a while for her to arrive there as she walked with caution in the streets. It was already past noon when she entered the tavern, and as soon she entered she spotted Syldis by the counter cleaning some plates.
The big woman saw her but continued her work while the princess approached.
• "Is Riou here?" Eileen asked preoccupied. The princess was clearly concerned trying to find him.
Syldis sighed - "Upstairs… last door to the right…" She said without interrupting her work, not very pleased…
Eileen bowed her head in appreciation and rushed upstairs.
• "Kids…" Said Syldis out loud letting a small laugh out.
Eileen stood in front of the door and knocked. Riou's voice came from inside
• "It's open…"
She took a deep breath and opened it. As she came inside she saw Riou laying down on a bed. The moment he saw her he jumped from the bed with a surprised expression. Eileen closed the door behind her. He was about to say something but refrained himself from doing so...
A few moments of unpleasant silence filled the air. Somehow she couldn't find the words to say anything, she feared what he could think of her.
"I should have seen it coming. Fought it off. I'm a failure as a warrior and Riou saw it…" the thoughts rushed in Eileen's head.
Riou finally spoke in a calm, slow voice – "So… your… 'Friend' from earlier… You never mentioned him before…" said the boy awkwardly.
Eileen expression became furious - "That man is no friend of mine, he challenged me by the rites. He came in while I was training" she looked down, unable to look directly at him as a mix of disgust and hatred filled her as she continued - "he… he took advantage of me… I was not prepared… I'd never think he'd use such cheap tactics… I'm a failure… and ashamed… my honor was defiled…" she said as she looked up once again and tears began to flow from her crystal blue eyes… it was long ago the last time she had shed a tear, and now them wouldn't stop flowing…
She looked at a seemingly calm Riou… but his eyes were strange, they were wide open looking at her… soon his gaze became distant as his focus was nowhere… a flame seemed to be raging on within those dark blue eyes.
Suddenly the door was kicked in with extreme violence, to the point of shattering. Eileen scared by the noise turned towards it trying to wipe her tears from her face… She saw two women with big swords in their hands. One was blond with golden eyes with vertical pupils. The other had long brown hair and a scar on her right eye.
Eileen was surprised as both women came in menacingly, and more strangely they were pointing their weapons at her.
• "Who are you?" – Said the blond woman calmly pointing the tip of her sword at Eileen.
Eileen tried to recompose herself wiping the last tears and elegantly at the tip of the sword she replied gracefully
• "I'm Eileen Strongheart"
The brown haired woman interjected looking at the blond one she said in a low voice - "He is going to the castle… fast" The blond nodded confirming it without taking her eyes from Eileen.
Syldis rushed into the room. As she heard the noise she quickly came to see what was going on and as she saw Leona and Therese weapons drawn towards Eileen she quickly put herself between them.
• "Therese! Put the weapons away… First you almost kill the boy and now you are threatening the princess!? Stop this already!"
Therese and Leona lowered their weapons looking at Syldis – "Is she an acquaintance of Riou?" She asked, Syldis nodded as it was an obvious question - "He is hanging around this girl for a while now - they train together at the castle." She answered.
Therese sheathed her sword - "I apologize… I thought…" She paused before continuing with another line of thought - "Can you explain what happened?" She asked looking at Eileen.
Eileen was confused - "We were talking…" she turned around towards where Riou was to get his input on the matter, but to her surprise he was gone. She looked around but was unable to find him.
Therese seeing the lost princess searching for the boy, she sighed - "He is most likely at the castle by now"
She turned to Leona – "Let's go" she said moving out.
---------------------------------------------- Askjell's view
"Today was a good day… my plan is going well… First I will mess with her headt… and then with her body… her mind will shatter and she will have no other alternative than to concede the duel to me…" he thought walking towards the guest rooms.
"She will pay… pay a 100 fold the shame she made me suffer 10 years ago. I was a joke in the north. A man losing to a girl… she will pay… and she will be mine at all costs." he continued his thoughts.
He looked at the rapier he was carrying from the training hall "This is a remarkable work. It is probably a gift from the king to the princess… she sure is spoiled… I don't know how good this metal is, but I bet this would fetch a high price in Thanes for the details alone…" he thought as he arrived at his room while looking at the rapier.
He went inside and threw the sword on top of the table near the door…
"Perhaps I could use this sword as a way into the princess bedroom this night. She is naive enough to let a man inside, if he is to return her sword she certainly will allow it… from there I could try another hand at her… even if she is able to resists I can scream and draw attention… everyone will know she allowed a man inside her chambers in the middle of the night… her reputation will be ruined, her honor gone… and the king will have no other alternative than giving her to me…" He thought to himself looking at the sword and smiling deviously.
Someone knocked at the door. He went to open it and noticed a boy. After a better look Askjell recognized him "It's the boy that follows the princess" he thought smiling to himself "I will play a bit with him as well" Askjell allowed him in.
• "You are the one from this morning. I didn't know you worked for the castle" Said the noble full of himself.
The boy simply smiled.
• "The princess stayed with me after you left you know. But she never mentioned your name… what is it anyway?" completed the noble in a mocking tone
The boy seemed uncaring to the remark, and quickly barging inside the room he noticing the sword on top of the table he pointed at it.
• "That? That is the princess' sword as you may know… she said she will be coming to get it tonight… late… tonight... but I don't think a boy like you can understand it… women can be insatiable sometimes…" he said with lust in his tone…
This time the provocation clearly had an effect on the boy, he was twitching and clearly trying desperately to control himself…
"I can't believe this wimp was allowed to challenge her… he is about to cry just from that?" thought the noble looking at the boy "He is so affected by this taunts… poor thing…" thought the noble pleased with himself
The boy approached the sword and calmly said… in an uncaring tone that seemed to hide a deep anger within…
• "I must confess… on my way here I was tempted to end you right where you stand, no silly presentations, no talks... just erase you from existence… sent you into oblivion… nobody would know… but in the way here I managed to calm down a little. I'm civilized man you know…" Said the boy in front of the rapier on the table… - "But you are really, really making it difficult… Plan A seems more and more compelling" Completed the boy…
Askjell laughed at him "He is mad becauce of the fact I will be taking his princess away… completely delusional! He thinks he can win against me, he has gone mad with envy!"
• "But the fact is that simply erasing your filthy being from existence would indeed bring a lot of questions…So I decided to do this by the book… I will challenge you in front of you people for the right of facing Eileen… If I win you forfeit your right of challenging her ever again… you will not get near her… or so help me heavens you and whoever stands beside you will be killed where you stand" Said the boy with a dark and eerie tone… Askjell was not able to see his face… but the promise did sent shivers down his spine…
Riou took the sword from the table - "This sword here is mine…" The boy continued finally turning around towards the Askjell who could see his serious face…
"Ho, so the sword is not hers? Did oversell it? No matter, he is furious! This boy is too easy to read, he is desperate trying to keep the princess to himself. He is in love with that block of ice that is called a princess… and now he is trying to scare me off… so predictable…" thought the noble.
• "I doubt a commoner like yourself could have the coin to buy such a sword… And why should I accept the challenge of a boy such yourself?" He said.
• "I thought the Norseman were proud warriors that never backed off from a challenge… But I can't deny it's a wise decision to be scared of me" Said Riou mockingly
"This damn, cocky boy… I will make you eat your words… you will bleed… I will take that sword from your cold body" he thought angered… and calming down he said - "I know you tried to challenge the princess as well… and you lost… you have no chance of winning and are desperate… but if you wish to die… Just say when and I will teach you some manners! But don't regret if you lose your head in the process…" said Askjell angered.
• "What about now? I will be waiting by the arena outside… come once you are ready" Replied the boy walking away holding the rapier…
"You are dead" thought Askjell with a smile while the boy left.
----------------------------------- The Trio going to the castle
Therese, Leona were followed by Eileen while rushing to the castle…
• "Why do you think he went to the castle?" Asked Eileen
• "I sense his presence in that direction" – Terese answered
• "What do you mean, can you feel everyone's presence?" – Asked Eileen again
• "No… not like this… so far I could only when he is angry… What did you say to get him this mad?" Replied Therese trying to understand what could trigger him so much. But before Eileen could answer something caught Therese and Leona attention.
They were at the entrance gates getting a carriage to go up to the castle when suddenly Therese felt a stronger surge coming from the castle. She and Leona simultaneously looked at the castle
• "How can a boy that small have such a presence?" Asked Leona - "It feels like he is about to level the castle's plateau to the ground" She commented.
• "Seems like he found what he was after, if he was angered before… now he is furious" said Therese. Eileen tried to understand but it made no sense for her, how could he do such a thing, and how were they able to sense him… she was still figuring out how they could be this certain.
• "He is certainly mysterious" Said Therese to Leona… and turning to Eileen she continued –"Where did he come from Princess?" Asked Therese.
The princess was taken by surprise – "From the south, I think? He didn't say… nobody really knew where he is from… All that was said was that he was not from around here" she answered recalling what she heard when the boy was found.
• "From the south? You mean Argos lands? How did he end up in the north?" questioned Therese
• "Something about a caravan… but it was not clear…" She said
• "How was his home called? Who taught him?" Therese asked
• "I… I don't know…" Said Eileen realizing how little she knew about him
• "I see… so what can you tell us about him?" Therese insisted.
The princess didn't know how to answer that either… she realized she knew nothing about him. She didn't even care to ask details of his past life. All she did was use him to improve herself… she was using him… That realization left a sour taste in her mouth…
Was all the interest in the boy was because of his prowess and skill? Questions became to pop on her head…
She didn't really know him. This last week he was gone, was she preoccupied by his wellbeing or was about when would he be back to continue her training?
Doubts and uncertainty filled the Princess' mind to which she didn't have a clear answer.
Focusing on Riou she at least had a few certainties, she did like being around him, he was very different than everyone else… and the fact that he was angry with what happened and rushed to the castle because of her, made her really happy.
Therese noticed the princess' silence.
She then knew the princess could not help further to understand the mystery that was the boy and stopped asking.
They were almost at the castle main gates by that time.
• "Why are you going after him?" Questioned the princess intrigued after recovering from her thoughts.
• "He said he could help me with something I searched for a long time… and also I feel like he could disappear if I don't keep an eye on him." Therese replied looking at the castle's entrance.
Finally arriving at the castle main gates the princess led the two inside.
Didn't take long for the group to notice a commotion, many guests that arrived with Askjell were moving and gathering around the arena in the garden. They followed them outside and there they saw Riou on top of the arena with a serious face and arms crossed waiting for a blonde man to prepare on the opposite side of the arena. All the guests were cheering for the blond man, calling his name
- "Askjell! Askjell! Askjell! Askjell!" a few chanted in unison
He was using a big round wooden shield and a sword, it was not very long, seemed to match the shields lenghts. He also was wearing thick woolen clothes designed to withstand slashes and a helmet that covered his whole head except the front where his eyes and mouth were.
Leona looked at Therese – "Want me to stop this?"
Therese looked at her and then back to the Arena – "No. I'm curious to see how he handles this" she replied looking briefly at the princess.
Eileen was clearly happy and not worried at all.
"She at least has good senses, she knows he is very strong and is not concerned… Syldis could learn a thing or two from this girl…" thought Therese looking at her and smiling faintly… her impression of Eileen improved.
The fight was about to start. Therese's attention was focused on Riou as the man with shield and sword approached the center.
• "Are you sure you don't need a shield? I don't want you crying afterwards…" – he said to Riou who didn't move or replied.
• "Very well then…" he said taking position as another man came to the middle of the arena and shouted
• "Hereby the duel for the right to challenge the princess will begin! The loser shall resign from the right and never try it again! Begin!"
Riou unsheathed his long sword and pointed it to his adversary who was holding his shield to his left side while the sword was free on his right side.
Riou rested his sword on his right shoulder while holding the handle down near his waist, he stood still there as if mocking the shield bearer.
As the norse man advanced towards him the crowd cheered loudly.
He brought the shield in front and the sword on his right side ready for a swing as he approached the unprepared opponent. Once he was close enough, Riou began to move, walking circling him in the direction of the carried shield.
• "Leona… why is he circling the opponent like that?" Asked Therese testing her disciple.
• "This way the sword on the right hand will not be able to reach him…" she answered promptly while Eileen's eyes widened. She never fought someone with a shield so she didn't know such technique existed. She only trained and specialized for duels with sword against sword. She began to think on how she'd act if she was fighting against such enemy… after a moment of thinking that movement seemed really clever.
The man didn't like that and tried to bash him with the shield. Riou just kicked him back with strength before he could swing the sword in his direction. The man had trouble to maintain his balance while stepping back, but he did not fall.
Riou continued walking without looking directly at him with his sword at his shoulder… circling the man.
The man rushed at him and by opening his defense he tried to swing horizontally at the boy. Riou quickly elevated his sword and rushed it down very quickly, he aimed the cutting edge specifically at the middle core of the man's sword.
As they clashed, the iron sword was cut in half.
• "Legendary metal…" Said Therese - "An impressive performance… pin point accuracy, the angle of his sword with the opponent's… it was precise…" Complemented Leona. Eileen just heard their remarks impressed by their analysis, and even more by Riou's ability that shined even more at their remarks… she kept her eyes on the fight.
The man was looking at the half sword in his hand, he tossed it aside and looked at one of his man and reached out his hand towards him, as if asking for another sword.
He promptly threw his sword to the challenged noble in the arena. Riou waited and once he was armed again and advancing, Riou shortened the circling going in angle towards the man's shield close enouthg that he was able to hit it with his sword safely
With a series of quick swings at the man's shield, he forced him to defend himself without much vision of where the blows were coming from… Riou began to thrust with the tip of his sword at the shield border, at the innermost border the one near the man's chest and sword, as the shield handle was in its center, the push forced it to turn in its axis, going towards his chest and blocking his right hand movements… ending up completely exposing the norse man right side.
Therese eye's widened as if not believing what she was seeing…
Riou right hand was holding the sword crossed from his right to the man's core, holding its shield in place, so for him to continue any movement he needed to untangle his sword. To do that Riou turned on his axis, in a quick movement he stepped inside the man defenses with his right shoulder blocking the man from removing his shield from that position and sliding to in a quick turn to his right he freed the sword from the left side of the shield to the right. Holding the shield in place with his weight while simultaneously bringing his sword to the right side… he held the shield in that position safely with his left hand and body weight on his left shoulder… he was near Askjell unprotected right arm and completely exposed body, with a free sword in his right hand which was able to reach the man wherever he wanted.
The movement was very quick… to the unaware spectator seemed like a simple thrust followed by a half pirouette that left the boy in a lucky position.
Leona looked at Therese – "What technique was that?"
• "It's a way to fight against shield bearers. It's very complex… look how the shield becomes a hindrance when it's held against the shield bearer wrist? He does not have the strength to counter the opponent's weight with only his right arm in that position… he should have dropped it and moved away as soon as Riou got inside his defense after the trust… now his entire right side is completely exposed to the enemy's weapon… he still didn't realize it but he is unable to reach him with his shorter sword. If this was a real fight the man would be dead" Said Therese without taking her eyes off the fight.
Eileen saw the movements and heard the explanation from Therese… she sure was knowledgeable in swordfights and the fact she was explaining Riou's movement on the go… made them much more impressive to her…
The norse man's sword was trying to reach the boy from above and below the stuck shield, but was completely out of reach, all it could do was go around the shield without a good angle to hit Riou…
Before he could do anything else…
Riou's sword came up from the unprotected side of the man… straight towards his neck.
When Askjell felt the cold piercing pressure on his neck he froze. Riou pushed him backwards as he forced the man to drop the shield with his left hand, still maintaining the sword tip at the Norseman neck he pushed him back even more. As he stepped back and completely let go of the shield, Riou threw it out of the arena.
Riou said no word… his eyes were serious… the man realized the boy was really considering ending his life… He knew he had underestimated the boy greatly.
The crowd in the arena was completely silent….
Suddenly and without a reason, Riou stepped back from the noble, giving him space. The man's first reaction was to bring his hand to his neck, he felt something warm… and pulling his hand up he saw the blood… the boy had put pressure behind it… and indeed drops of blood were coming out of the wound.
Riou taking a few steps away, stood there waiting for Askjell's next move.
The norse man was mad, he was made a fool once again in front of the other warriors, now by a boy… without his shield and with just a sword in his hand he pointed it at Riou menacingly.
• "You forced my hand boy… don't regret it." He said loudly.
Therese sensed mana flowing within the man's body, very weak and unrefined. But enough to strengthen the body. He was improving his physical abilities to try to overcome the boy skill with sheer power and strength.
Leona looked at Therese who did not take her eyes from the arena.
Things would get even more interesting from now on...
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