175 CLXXV. The Rhombus-Shaped Room (1/2)

”Did you speak an alien language? Dag, what the fuck!” she replied, reacting to the story and slightly walking away from him, frightened.

”Hahaha, yes! I don't know how it happened, but before I killed Hjalmar, I was able to understand his language and play its sounds. As I explained, I discovered that I could increase my 'dark' powers by ingesting the blood of creatures controlled by the Xis. But lately, Karl has discovered a way to increase the effect of that blood, injecting it directly into my veins”.

Gridd did not answer.

”I know this may seem absurd to you, but you will believe it when we happen to fight. It's not over, there's one last thing that happened to me”.

”Uff... go on” puffed Gridd, holding her forehead to avoid fainting.

”When I arrived at Vegard's, my companions and I discovered that he wasn't just a human being. The blacksmith was actually Weland, the God. This axe... after I defeated him, he decided to modify Brann's Red Executioner and to add the power of his Mimungr, Mimir's legendary sword” Dag continued, pulling out the Giantbane and showing it back to his sister.

”Okay, I definitely need to get some air” exclaimed Gridd, who got out of bed and opened the room window, breathing in the air outside to calm down.

Dag also stood, standing still by the bed, with the axe in his hands.

”I remember when you arrived at the farm. You were a puny, helpless kid. Look at you now... you possess mysterious powers and you've even managed to defeat a God... what the fuck, Dag! Do you want to drive me crazy?!” she continued, looking out.

Dag looked at his axe, while the light coming from outside reflected on its blade.

”You taught me that I should never give up. And that's what I did. I've risked my life many times... But now I feel strong, I feel I can defeat anyone” he said, in a low voice, sitting on the bed again.

Gridd looked at him, thoughtfully.

With a small hidden smile, she approached him and placed her hand on that of Dag, who was touching the axe.

”I believe every word, Dag. I'd be stupid if I didn't believe you. In my heart, I always felt there was something inside you... something that inspired me to trust. That was one of the reasons why I told you about Brann. You know what? I will come with you regardless. If the other two Masters will refuse the plan, I would leave the Clan and help you complete your project” she said, resting her hand on Dag's cheek and gently stroking him.

Dag looked up at Gridd, his eyes expressing the happiness he was feeling.

”Don't say nonsense, sister. You have struggled so hard to become a Master, you can't give it up just because I asked for your help...”

Just then, someone knocked on the door, interrupting the conversation.

”Gridd! We're ready for the council! See you in the rhombus room of the basement!” yelled Jens from behind the door.

”All right, I'll get to you in a few minutes!” replied Gridd.

She stood up on her feet and tried to recompose, adjusting her jacket and hair, which were messy.

”Let's go!” she said.

”Me too?” asked Dag.

”Yes, I demand that you be there too” she replied.