190 CXC. The Upgrades (1/2)

”I just don't understand you... you always had a passion for plants and rocks, when you were younger you stayed hours watching them... but risking your life like this... I don't agree. Anyway, I think I'm going to go to sleep now, tomorrow we're going to have a long journey” Gridd replied, rising from her chair, stretching her arms upwards and yawning.

”I'll do the same, I'm sure we'll be able to continue this conversation when we meet again, Dag. I'd listen to your stories all night, but I realize it would be counterproductive” said Jens, who until then had listened intently to every detail, hanging from his lips.

”Yes, I'm sure we'll see you again soon” Dag said, heading for the stairs leading to the bedrooms.

”See you tomorrow, brother. Good night!” said Gridd, before closing the door to her room.

”Good night!” he replied, who was so tired that he could no longer keep his eyes open.

He checked that his weapons were still where he left them and then threw himself on the bed, falling asleep like a rock.

...

When the morning arrived, Dag opened his eyes, looking at the empty bed in front of him, with the blankets still positioned as Reidar had left them.

He got up and looked out the small window, noting that although it was very early in the morning, the warm Sunlight was already covering the roofs of Hevnen's houses.

With a determined and energy-laden spirit, the new Warchief, having prepared himself and collected his belongings, left the room, heading to the outside courtyard.

Around him, everything seemed to be silent: most warriors were still sleeping.

After leaving the main hall, he made his way to Aslan, who was still half asleep under the barn canopy, but as soon as he saw his master, stood up, enthusiastically.

”Hey! Good morning my friend! Are you ready to go?” said Dag, as if the horse could answer.

As he stroked him and secured the saddle on his back, Gridd went out into the yard, accompanied by Karl, Agnes, and two other people, a boy, and a girl.

”Good morning, Warchief!” exclaimed Gridd, winking at his brother, who turned to them.

”Well, you've all been on time!” he replied, implicitly referring to Karl, who was still half asleep and walked yawning.

They all began to fix their horses when Dag noticed that his sister caressed her steed, a magnificent white stallion.

”You know, sometimes I think they're better than people. They listen to you without interrupting and keep all kinds of secrets without complaining!” said Dag, stroking Aslan's snout.

”Well, so do I. She's my best friend. Since we first met, we have become inseparable” Gridd said, without looking away from her horse as she fastened her saddle and made her wear the reins.

”What's her name?” asked Dag, sure his sister had named her horse.

”She's Light. She's gorgeous, isn't she?” she continued proudly.