173 CLXXIII. Jens (1/2)

Both companions threw themselves on their beds, sighing in exhaustion.

”Thank you, Reidar” Dag said, breaking the silence as his comrade was about to fall asleep.

”For what, Captain?” asked Reidar, turning his head towards him.

”My ability to speak is not very high, I can see that. This isn't the first time you've helped me through a conversation. I never expected to be able to bond myself so quickly to a complete stranger, because that's what you were for me, until recently” Dag continued, looking at the dark ceiling of the room.

”It's the ideals that bind us, Captain. I have never met anyone so determined, despite his young age. Ever since you chose me among the three options Master Egill gave to you, you've given me an important chance. You gave me something to fight for, to believe in. So I'm the one thanking you, Dag. I feel like I'm in a privileged position with you and my Clan, I'm not going to let you down, you'll see” Reidar, delighted with his friendship with his team Captain, replied firmly.

”I'm happy about it. Good night” said Dag, pleased with Reidar's response, which until then had proved flawless.

”Oh, one last favor, Reidar... tomorrow, when you'll wake up at dawn, try not to wake me up. I'd like to sleep a few more hours if it's possible. Try to get back here to Fort Skjonnet in the afternoon, okay?”

”Of course, Captain. No problem, I'll be as quiet as a ghost! Good night” the archer replied, before falling asleep like a rock.

Dag's body was tired after the trip, but his mind was incredibly active and he could not get to sleep immediately.

He reflected on the infinite possibilities he would have if the two Clans had linked up and if, in the future, other Clans had joined the alliance.

Even if it was only the beginning, his plans were starting to take shape.

With a smile on his face, he fell asleep.

...

The next morning, when a ray of sunshine from the window next to the bed stroked his face and eyes, he awoke, even more buzzed than the previous day.

Reidar wasn't in his bed, and with him, all his stuff was gone.

After getting dressed and wearing his belt with weapons, Dag left the room.

As soon as he opened the door, he was astonished to notice that so many people were moving around the palace, as no noise could be heard from inside his room, due to the thick masonry walls.

Dozens of warriors were busy carrying out their daily life tasks: some of them carried weapons and armor, some others simply chatted cheerfully with their companions.

The door to Karl and Agnes' room was still closed and Dag was not surprised.

He began to walk downstairs, looking for Gridd.

She was standing before the table where they had sat that night, with a short, plump man by her side.