Albigan, Othala; Gwion 15th

Finally summer had come and the camp near oaken grove had slowly become crowded with knights, squires and valets as well as merchants and representatives of less esteemed professions. All those who hoped upon making a fortune had made their way to the outer plains of Albigan. So already now, three days before the opening, there was no shortage in services of any kind - no matter whether your horse needed shoeing or you felt like indulging your lusts - no demand would have remained unsatisfied.

Young McGreggor, who had kept a watch on the preparations was content; Everything was developing like clockwork and though he at first things had been disappointed with his fathers instruction to refrain from an open display of old rites his dissatisfaction was now giving way to keen anticipation. Taking all the details into account his plan had every prospect of succeeding...

***

Stepping lightly on the dew-covered ground in an effort to keep her pearl-embroidered, leathern shoes from getting overly damp, Saraquiel kept her head bowed, except for the few occasions she could be seen tossing her loose curls to one side, in order to better get a view of one or other of the young gentlemen arriving for the tournament—and in order for certain of them to get a better view of her. She knew that the way her hair was styled—loose and interlaced with varicolored ribbands—differed considerably from the norm, and that she was drawing attention to herself, much as she appeared to be ignorant of such things to those around her.

How things have changed... and how much they have stayed the same.

Her escort, Alleron, performed his function admirably: remaining seen, but not obtrusively so; nor did he interfere with Saraquiel’s seemingly random meanderings throughout the large complex, surrounded on all sides by merchants hawking their wares before the first competition. Although she herself had traveled far and wide, and seen many cultures, she knew quite well the spectacle she would have caused appearing here on Shevina as a lone female, unescorted. That was not the kind of attention she wanted from the growing throng of people who continued to gather for the event. Better that all they see is a chastely dressed maiden with a bit of wealth at her disposal. The hair will be enough for now to make them remember. I am only here for one reason, after all...

...and there he is.

Saraquiel’s deep green eyes sparkled with a mixture of pleasure and pride as she spied Sir Wallace McGreggor, son of Gavin, Lord McGreggor of Queribus and Albigan, standing across the clearing, engaged in conversation with a handsome younger gentleman, though she had sensed him through the Force long before now. She quickly turned aside, knowing that her gaze would draw his attention whether she intended it or not, due to their unique connection. A connection he does not realize... yet.

Allowing a hovering onlooker to catch a glimpse of her face, strikingly fair in contrast to her ravenblack tresses, she ducked her head and looked away, but not before she let him see what appeared to be a timid smile stretch across her lips. The knowing smiles she would save for later.

I have surely outdone myself in my choice of appearance this time, she mused idly, her fingers taming an errant curl. Risking a more extensive glance toward the man for whom she had traveled long, waiting just long enough for him to sense something odd, though he remained as yet unsure what he sensed, Saraquiel breathed deeply and drew her pelisse just a bit tighter around her, taking in the scent of the earth, the fresh-cut flowers, the very air itself, and wandered in the opposite direction, Alleron trailing close behind her. And then, she began to conjure her plan.

Tedryn became entranced with the deep green eyes that sparkeled like emeralds on the mysterious woman. I must meet this goddess Tedryn said to himself. Forgetting his manners and his train of thought, he walked absentmindedly over to the beauty.
"My lady. I am Tedryn Sha, friend of Sir Wallace McGreggor. Might i ask you for your name?" Tedryn bowed politely and anxiously awaited her response.

Something had changed... something about the quality of the moment.. the quality of the force. Overlooking the crowd Wallace' at first did not recognize anything out of the ordinary.. until he caught a glimpse of the lady.

His very perception suddenly fading into slow motion Wallace realized it all to the tiniest detail.. the morning sun's reddish reflections upon her lustrous black tresses, sparkling emerald green eyes, her comparatively unobtrusive pelisse that revealed her slim and willowy figure... her appearance was unsurpassable and no adornment could have improved her fair face's natural beauty apart from the incredibly pure-minded smile she gave him before she gracefully bowed her head.

In the blink of an eye the sound of clashing swords welcomed him back to reality. The gendar would not have known what had happened... that, from one to the other second, caused him to be seized with such wistfulness and longing. Everything seemed so strangely intense... moving him in an almost disturbing way.

Wallace had done his best to overcome this old yearning that had assailed him so violently during his stay at Coruscant and now after he had thought he had finally left it behind the mere look of some lady made it all descend upon him once more - Yet the worst of it all was the ridiculous feeling she was more than just 'any lady'..

Quick to control his self he refrained from gazing after her - but, glancing back at his interlocutor Tedryn was gone... to chase the girl.

Following the younger man with his eyes McGreggor slowly folded his arms. The sight of Tedryn addressing the unknown lady let his anger blaze up fiercely. It was quite some time since he had last given way to the darkside... and by now he really wondered why.

...The morning sun was warm and Kam felt energized. He was having a bite and speaking to Wallace when a young woman crossed his view. This was no ordinary woman, her beauty was so powerful Kam's heart skipped a beat. Kam watched as this lady crossed the path of many men, each of whose jaw dropped. Kam smiled, he knew the game, and she played it very well. Kam also sensed something, Wallace, Kam sensed affection that turned into fury. "What's the matter?" he asked Wallace, but before he could finish the question he saw the bafoon approaching the beauty. "Oh, boy" Kam said, "The nutter's lost his mind." But why was the dim one's actions causing Wallace to burn from within? Kam decided not to bother and just watch to see how all of this was going to unfold...

The prime encounters... ...are those unplanned...

Almost before the echo of the brash young man’s words faded into the early morning air, Alleron had stepped in front of Saraquiel and glared menacingly at the interloper.

“Thou shalt not address my lady directly,” he said, his voice deep and penetrating, and his eyes narrowed as his fist clenched around the hilt of his sword. “And thou shalt not inquire as to her name, cretin.”

Saraquiel herself, however, did not appear quite so intimidating, peering shyly as she was around the large, powerful figure of her escort. Alleron, wing-tip of a hawk, I chose you well, she thought to herself. You distract them from the true danger – me.

With a hand placed gently on her escort’s nearly drawn sword, the dark haired maiden stepped from her position behind him. “Alleron... please. I’m sure he meant no harm,” she said, slowly encouraging her escort to remove his hand from his weapon. Then, she bestowed a smile, broader than any she had shown prior, upon the young man. Force-attuned, this one is... I shall have to be careful.

“Tedryn... Sha?” Saraquiel addressed the young man, as though testing the combination of the two words. “A friend of Sir McGreggor? I believe I have heard that name; for he is the one sponsoring this tournament, is he not?” she asked.

However, before the man could respond, she ducked her head as though embarrassed at her faux pas, using biofeedback to cause the blood to rush to her face in a fair semblance of a deep crimson blush. Her true thoughts and intentions she kept well shielded from even the most talented of Force users present... and she knew there were several present. Including Sir McGreggor, who has surely taken notice of this... encounter... by now.

“Please forgive my impertinence for asking so many questions, kind sir,” she added hurriedly, her emerald eyes still averted downward. “I beg of thee to have patience, and accept my name as a token of apology. I am called Saraquiel.”

With that, the dark haired maiden extended her hand to the young man.

Tedryn smiled. The lady was truly beautiful. He sensed the anger rolling off of Sir McGreggor, as well as her bodyguard. I had better watch my step. Tedryn mused. "My lady. I am Tedryn Sha of Byss. It is both a pleasure and an Honor to make your acquaintance."

Tedryn bowed, kissing the angels hand, showing his respect. Suprisingly, he also gave a friendly nod to Sir Kam Solusar. Maybe things were changing for the best. He turned and bowed to Wallace to show respect and his good intentions. Yes, this was the future and Tedryn would leave the past buried forever.

Aina was wandering around between the merchant’s stalls, viewing their goods and exchanging some words with the one or the other. She was very excited. The last time she had attended a tournament had been six years ago. Since her mother had died, her father hadn’t arranged any celebrations or tournaments. She had always loved the exuberant atmosphere at these festivities, and now she was almost feeling like the young girl who she had been.

The thought of her father put a damper on her good mood. He didn’t know that she was here. He would have never allowed that she was attending a tournament at the clanlands of the McGreggors. So she hadn’t told him that she would leave her training on Coruscant for a few days to visit Albigan. Anyway, she didn’t want to attract attention here. She had dressed herself in the simple dark blue robe she was always wearing at the Jedi Academy, and had done without her jewels. Nevertheless, her proud bearing and her graceful moves made it quite plain that she was of noble birth. She caught many stares, and it was quite clear that the most people here were wondering about the lady who walked around alone and who was almost dressed as plainly as a cadarian nun.
’Maybe it’s not been such a good idea to not dress like a peacock… This seems to attract much more attention than the showing of riches…’

Within the very shadows, Vance Jas narrowed his ice blue eyes as he watched the proceedings before him. With his features hidden in his hood, the Sith Lord could feel many Force adepts within the gathered, some greater in strength that others; but all in touch with the Force none-the-less...

Raising an eyebrow, Vance moved silently toward his apprentice, Wallace McGreggor, "Only the strongest reap the spoils of the beautiful... Why is my apprentice not stepping up to the woman who finds him so interesting...? And stopping beside Wallace, Vance was more a shadow than a being, "Perhaps you have grown weak in the time away from my teachings, apprentice..."

The young Byssian had just defused his fauxpas through a bow as two more variables strayed from the straight and narrow. One of them being Lady Aina of Teshwan, who obviously had confused 'event' and 'convent'. The other one being Lord Jas, his master.. and all Wallace needed right now.

"And perhaps thou hast not the slightest idea of how the game is played around these lands" ,responded the gendar lowly. 'The display of curiosity surely is no feature of the strong. Furthermore i am not here for the women. Well, at least not directly...'

The way he had just answered him had by no manner of means been polite but the younger man was indeed more than annoyed... and concerned. Considering the friend at his side was Kam Solusar, the young man who had once abandoned the dark Sith Order the constellation had just become extremly perilous.

Exactly this caused him to cloak his feelings completely. Wallace would not let his self get worked up. No matter whether the sith lord's veiled figure attracted far too much attention or the meeting of these two persons right here and now was a medium-sized catastrophe. He would not take any unthinking step to aggravate the situation.

In any case he would not try to fool Lord Jas, the man he was loyal to.. neither would he abandon Kam, who had become a true friend during the years.

'I know i owe thee an explanation my master... and more. I will not shirk my responsibility but please let us sort out this awkward affair rationally and possibly elsewhere.. for insisting on immediate retaliation thou do not only risk my life...' ,directed he his thoughts to his master while meeting his eyes in an serious look, respectful but determined.

Vance Jas slowly grinned within the darkness of his hood, "Indeed, if you feel this way, my apprentice, then you shall have to prove your worth within the tournament..." And narrowing his ice blue eyes, Vance looked at Kam...

Smiling, the Sith Lord nodded slightly, his eyes flashing brightly, "I see, young Wallace, that your company of friends has been well sort out... Siding yourself with powerful beings could indicate your wish to remain a power within the universe." Then glancing back to Wallace, Vance raised an eyebrow, "I do hope for your sake, that you are not planning anything hostile against the Sith... I know your feelings about certain aspects of what we are, but I can assure you that I will not allow the Sith to move against my apprentice..."

Then reaching out a gloved hand, the Sith Lord placed it upon Wallace's shoulder heavily, "And I would remind you to watch your tone, Apprentice..." Vance's own tone was filled with cold-hearted venom, "Do not forget who you are in the presence of..."

Respect was given where respect was earned, and the Sith Lord expected nothing less. Yet, lightening his mood, the shadows seemed to slide back from Vance's very being, "But, do not feel bad, Apprentice, I understand the situation that is being played out here... I am glad you have listened to my warnings about being manipulated."

Removing his hand, Vance chuckled, "And do not fear for my safety, my Apprentice."

The gendar displayed an expression of unbelief and confusion, almost imperceptible was the angry frown that crossed his face before suddenly.. he grinned like a Cheshire cat.

"Alas, thyne sophisticated jokes surprise me ever anew" ,addressed he his master with a laugh. "As well as the costume thou hast chosen to honour this grand day. I but beg to be excused by now, Sir Harlequin, i still have some things to attend to."

That said the young Lord of Queribus tipped Kam the wink to follow him as he wandered off towards the stall's, where he had spotted Lady Aina of Teshwan.

Some lower vassals who had observed the conversation shook off their dammed up unbelief and consternation through a hearty laugh and a good drink of ale after this clearing up. The mention of the Sith, a term they did not fully understand that but was biased with the air of terror, as well as the impertinent way the imposing cloaked man had addressed their Lord had in fact caused them some anxiety.

"And if thou really hast a fancy for a thrashing, my jester.." ,added the gendar turning back to Lord Jas with a friendly smile.. his green eyes but hard and cold, "..alas, how could i refuse thus favour ? I shall see to it that they spare us a little time in between the duels."

Probing him or not.. Vance had gone too far. He had just been about to ruin everything Wallace had worked for all his life long and the Othalan would not belief his master to act unintentionally. He had learned his lessons well. Knowing the matter would have to be clarified sooner or later he had been prepared.

After Wallace had cloaked his feelings earlier on he had now disguised his mind completely.. and weird enough - for the very first time since the Sith Lord had encountered his apprentice Lord Jas was not able to penetrate this ravenblack cover. Also never before had the young one dared or succeeded to offend him thus effectively.

Something fundamental had changed... and it had not yet been perceptible during their last encounter at Coruscant only a few months ago.

Walking diagonally behind Solusar McGreggor kept to his right, aware of every move around and ready to draw, whereas Tedryn, who had noticed the happening did not need any hint to comprehend what was going on. He was a pro when it came to such ..tensions - inspite of lady Saraquiel's unspeakable beauty his undivided attentiveness remained focused on the Sith Lord's cloaked frame.

'He would not allow.. the Sith to move against me as long as i consider no hostile actions ?',Wallace quickly considered while they went past a saddler's hut to approach the graceful lady amongst the stalls. This were grand words. The gendar knew his master was powerful but.. 'the Sith', as he had just chosen to address the problem, had turned to something new in the meantime. To a beast whose hunger was not to be satisfied.

The Emperor's avarice would be boundless once he came to notice Shevina's riches in cortosis and other rare ores, this much was sure, and he would do everything to take over this treasure of a planet.. no matter whether it was the homeworld of some sith or not. Lord Jas would have better talked to old Palpatine if he wanted to lecture about the unity of sith...

Furthermore, after the recent revelations, Wallace was no longer thinking in terms of one planet... The jedi had split and dispersed his people in order to subdue their sith heritage, the empire had rediscovered the forgotten world, that had been erased from all records during old republican times, and subjugated his kin at Kilia IV. Taking thus into account Sith or Jedi was not an issue to Wallace much longer. 'With me or against me' ,was what the sole criterion by now.

Lady Aina just ahead McGreggor glanced at the crowd. Where was Jerrid by the way ? The gendar was pretty sure the young one was around - still right now Wallace was grateful not to spot him somewhere near. What he did but notice was the foreign lady.. her mere sight thrilled him to the bone. Nevertheless he tore his self away from the magnificent view to greet Aina Mairi Rohana of Teshwan, the lady who met all requirements to play an important role in his scheming.

"Lady Aina" ,addressed he the graceful young woman gently, "I am very glad thou found the time to attend the festivities. It is a pleasure to meet thee again." He flashed his rascal's smile before he turned to direct her attention to his younger companion in arms.

"It seems thou hast not found a suiting escort amongst those Coruscant louts and Milady, right thou art not to lower thyne standards..." He had not changed and it felt like they had parted only days ago, only his hairdo.. he was finally looking like a respectable Othalan again after he had shocked her through a fashionable short-hair cut around Coruscant.

"May i introduce, Sir Kam Solusar of Vilhon a long-standing friend of mine and skilled knight. Sir Solusar, thus treat for the eyes is Lady Aina Mairi Rohana of Teshwan, a lady of wit and beauty, so heed, the lady might overwhelm thee in the blink of an eye."

Looking at them smilingly Wallace took a deep breath. He had the weird feeling this day would be a turning point in his life.. and the changes would be violent.


Vance smiled within his hood as he listened to his apprentice, 'I shall allow him this one time to show me disrespect... If he dares follow this course of action again, he shall be dealt with severly...' And nodding, Vance let out a small chuckle, "Of course, Lord McGreggor, I only jest..."

Within his cloak, Vance's gloved hand had clasped around his lightsaber handle, the leather of the glove threatening to rip from the force placed upon the knuckled area, "Yet, I know your humorous side, Lord McGreggor, and I trusted you would see the amusement in my jesting..."

Inwardly, Vance had covered his own mind from possible mental assault, 'One more show of defiance and that is the limit of my patience...' And as Vance continued to smile, he thought he had best take off his covering robes; and within seconds, Vance Jas was standing before those gathered in his ancient Sith attire...

...Kam felt the tension of the days happenings gaining. He had one eye on the beautinful woman in blue, the other was watching the conversation between McGreggor and his master. Kam's hands reached for his weapons for the conversation became heated and he wasn't sure what was going to happen next.

Wallace then walked away and a sigh of relief left Kam's mouth. The two men were more than capable fighters, but this foe could have tested all that they had learned. Kam then saw Wallace motion to follow him. They walked together towards the stalls closer to the beautiful woman.

The introduction was welcomed by Kam warmly. He smiled a bit at what Wallace had said.

"Lady Aina, it is a pleasure to meet you" taking her hand and giving it a slight kiss as a sign of respect and admiration. "Sir Wallace don't worry about me batting an eye, I wouldn't want to miss a second of this beauties company." Kam smiled and blushed. He was usually talkative and outgoing even in the presence of beautiful women, but this time something was different, something about Lady Aina made him...nervous. Kam bowed, let Lady Aina's hand go and uncomfortably waited for a reply...

Tedryn turned towards the man who had been his bitter opponent since his arrival. Contemplating his life had been difficult but all men must make a change for the better. The decision was made. "Sir Kam" Tedryn spoke with hand out, "I am sorry for my irrational behaviour earlier. I have demons and I projected them upon you. I do hope you can accept my sincere apology." Turning to Sir Wallace he added. "Why dont the three of us do the gentlemanly thing and buy these beautiful ladies a drink." He bowed deeply smiling the entire time. Sir Tedryn Sha was born.


He had made his way up to the bleaches, amongst the locals. It had been two years now, since he walked about such people. There was still an old remnant of his world about this. The flavor of the summer breeze…different, but welcomed. This world was more progressed, and Jerrid smiled to himself. “…older, but newer. The irony in this…”

He had been instructed to enjoy himself for now. Walk amongst the people. Eat…drink…Enjoy!

He would occasionally spot Wallace moving about among the events. Greetings were paid all around, by many Lords, Nobles…and Ladies. Eye…Wallace was indeed a popular host. Seemed everyone, sooner or later would make their way and pay him greetings (respect).

Wallace had invited him here, to the tournaments, to get familiar with the people. He had set him off and it was clear that at this time, he wanted Jerrid to observe… Enjoy the amusements… Get familiar… Observe.

Jerrid was still amongst the crowd overlooking the jousting arena. An are near the stables. A cool wind had decided it was the right time to whisper through the summer heat. The laughter and joking amongst the people were hearty and did take the edge off his mind. …And the smell of ale in the air, added to the festivities. Again Jerrid smiled, as it seemed there was as much spilt ale around, as there was of drinking it. It was a loud crowd. Cheers and spilt ale, what a wonderful clash… And a clash of armor and steel was what was down below. His mind was easing and he needed this distraction.

Below them, a knight had been knocked off his stallion in the engagement. A loud CHEER arose from the crowd. The fallen knight was seen to quickly get on his feet… There..Wallace. Wallace was spotted down below. He was surely everywhere today. It did seem a great many Gentlemen ..and Ladies were always extending their hand to him.

From his distance, Jerrid could make out a young gentleman with Wallace. Then he spotted a strange…UN-natural shadow forming behind Wallace…

Jerrid found himself at attention and fully drawn to this… He was now quickly focusing his sight as the shadow became a robed figure. All about Jerrid became silent… He saw Wallace turning to this dark cloaked figure…

Blackness had enveloped Jerrid’s surroundings… His focus swooped down upon the three figures like a raptor. This cloaked man… No!… This was no man… This ..was… his thoughts erupted from within…

Jerrid’s heart was now racing and his lips tightened. He knew what this was… He had expected to encounter such a soul.
“Let thee that lest burn of the flame within, and nurtured it, be they consumed by its fire”

Wallace had now turned his back on it and was walking away … The other gentleman was by his side. The dark figure was fading from sight and soon lost

Sounds of the crowd returned to Jerrid and the darkness lifted. Once again the sun shone upon these people. Jerrid had not taken his eyes off Wallace and his companion. They now passed below him and once more out of sight. CHEERS, were at their full bloom, as the knights below were making a third run. Wallace was no longer in his sights.

Was it a vision? What had he actually seen? He had to move from here and get down below. He still wasn’t sure if what he had witnessed was real. Jerrid started to make his way down from the crowd…

 

Tedryn Sha was an individual forged by pain and hardships. The 24 year old Byssian knight had the look of youthful exuberance but the disposition of a much older man. Serfdom, no home, and no family history will do that to a man. Yet his host Sir McGreggor had changed his stars. Over the past few years his growing force connection gave him the unique ability to sense the tensions that plagued his fellow man. That one is evil incarnate Tedryn thought.

Lord Jas, Wallace's master was in a heated conversation with his apprentice. "Only the strongest reap the spoils of the beautiful... Why is my apprentice not stepping up to the woman who finds him so interesting...? Jas had said.

Tedryn could feel the anger roll of the shadowy lord. It seemed as Wallace was at a crossroads in his life and the key to his future lie ahead in this grand tournament. He would do everything to aid his friend in his coming trials. Peril and danger seemed close at hand and a threat hung like a violent storm over the group. Tedryn could not grasp its origins but he somehow knew that it would be pivotal in the coming tournament.

Tedryn was smitten with the beauty of Lady Saraquiel. He meant no offense to Wallace but something about her stirred his soul. He fidgeted, looking for an escape route, but nothing could hide him from his feelings. Risking more trouble he let his emotions guide him. "My Lady, might I ask that you dance with me later on this evening when the festivities begin?"

Tedryn risked a glance at Wallace. If the Lord decided to take offense then he could well be in trouble again but maybe the great one would sense the sincerity in his heart. The group was becoming larger as people sought to be part of this august occasion. Something is not right here Tedryn thought. Trouble and betrayal crept into his heart again. One among the brotherhoood was not who they seemed to be. He would be wary and investigate. He put on his most engaging smile and waited for the Lady's response.

Aina was just about to buy a small silvery brooch for her sister Gwenna. She missed the little girl. It was a shame she couldn’t travel to Eilean Donil and visit her, but if her father found out about her presence on Shevina, and the purpose of it, he wouldn’t be pleased – to not say he would be pissed off. So Aina would have to wait till her next official visit to meet her sisters again, and she could only hope that none of her father’s friends was around here – which was most unlikely anyway.

Suddenly, she felt a familiar presence. Slowly she turned to see Wallace McGreggor and another knight approaching her. Fully turning around she gave a little bow. ”The pleasure is on my side, Sir Solusar”, she said as the knight kissed her small hand. Her voice was clear like a mountain spring, a slight blush covered her fair cheeks, and her lips formed an innocent smile. Her whole being was radiating a refreshing kind of purity. For a short moment her dark blue eyes rested on Kam, then she turned her look on Wallace.

”Sir Wallace, how could I have rejected thy generous invitation? It is good to see thee again – and to see thy hair hath regained its former splendour.” She chuckled quietly, a roguish expression in her eyes. Aina had changed a lot in the last few months since their last encounter. Not physically – her body was still showing slight signs of adolescence, and her face still bore that innocent expression – but the way she moved and spoke had lost most of its insecurity, and there was a certain kind of calmness in her eyes that marked those who spent many hours meditating.

 

Saraquiel frowned at the appearance of the Dark newcomer, who called her Wallace his apprentice.

Perhaps I waited too long to return... for he has been tainted by this... Sith’s... teachings. What possessed him to do such a thing? Her frown was shortlived, however, as she knew that her visage even now commanded the attentions of this gentleman who remanding standing in awe before her, and it simply would not do to have him suspect anything inappropriate from his quarry. Saraquiel wiped her expression clean of its dark attributes, and planted a benign, unconcerned one in its place as, cloaking herself from the Force, she observed what seemed to be developing into a confrontation between the intruder and Wallace McGreggor.

Several tense moments later, to her concealed relief, Wallace – I must begin referring to him according to his rank and title, Saraquiel realized – turned his back on the cloaked man and, with his companion, sauntered across the field to the stalls. That is the Queribus spirit I know.

The Sith did not seem amused by what Saraquiel knew he perceived to be his pupil’s insolence; however, rather than confront Wallace, the cloaked figure chose instead to bite back his anger and present a more appropriate appearance before the crowd of onlookers. Remarkable. Wallace chose his master well... perhaps I was mistaken.

Smiling inwardly, Saraquiel turned her attention again to her would-be suitor, well aware of his burgeoning feelings for her.

"My Lady, might I ask that you dance with me later on this evening when the festivities begin?" The gentleman’s face had become decidedly cautious despite his attempt at an engaging smile; whether it was due to Saraquiel herself, or to some other factor – the Dark newcomer, perhaps – was yet to be seen.

His emotions, they will be his undoing. Saraquiel curled a ravenblack tress of hair around and between her fingers, almost hypnotically, as she studied the handsome young man. “It is early yet, Sir... Sha?” she answered, pretending to be uncertain of his name or title. “However, I would be pleased if thou wouldst accompany me in a dance this evening... barring further unforeseen circumstances?” Saraquiel smiled bewitchingly, her escort remaining silent behind her.


...Kam's heart fluttered when she spoke. Yes this was definatly a different experience for Kam. He had chased women before, but actually catching one, now that was a different story. He felt in his heart and his mind that the Lady standing before him was more than just a catch...it almost felt as if it was the will of the force that these two crossed paths. Kam found himself starring at this beauty and before the point of rudeness he turned to Wallace.

"Sir McGreggor, might we find some refreshments and a cool place to sit. We will need to keep our strength", Kam laughed. He then turned to the Lady, "I would be honored if you would join us Mlady." Kam tried his best to speak in the proper tounge his father taught him, but it was a struggle for him. He got too used to informal speaking after his father died and needed to practice up a bit. The two men and the beauty turned and took their conversation to a more comfortable place...

Vance slowly glanced toward the woman known as Saraquiel, his ice blue eyes narrowing slightly as he felt her connection to the Force; as well as something else, though the Sith Lord could not put his finger upon it, at least not with the current masking of his powers...

'This event is turning out to hold much more than at first percieved... There are very interesting beings here, some of which are a mystery to even myself.' Vance Jas started to walk along the rows of stalls, his new clothing allowing him to blend in with the current attire of those around, 'Indeed something is going on here, which is hidden behind many closed doors...'

Pausing for a moment, Vance looked down at a small jewelled necklace, the markings upon it's coppery surface making him think for a few moments of times long since gone, 'Everything here is a political struggle to gain the upperhand, to show who is and who is not the Lords and Lordesses... Given the feelings being sent by various beings, there shall be a fair amount of mystery and intrigue.' Vance smirked, 'I shall enjoy this...'

As the tournament progressed into the day, one of the valets saw a shadow on the distant green, a dark swift-moving blur moving from the eastern steppes of Albigan. He blinked and shaded his eyes with his long slender hand, and he saw not a shadow, nor a blur, but the small figures of riders, many riders, and the glint of afternoon on the tips of their spears was like the twinkle of minute stars beyond the edge of mortal sight. Far behind them a foggy mist rose in thin curling threads from the forests beyond.

Another valet, a female, watched his companion stiffen at the sight approaching, and swiftly went to address him. She could hear the air moving in the grass. "Riders!" cried the young valet, as he held the saddle for one of the knights in the tournament, his other hand pointing toward the distance. "Many riders on swift beasts are coming toward us!"

"Yes," said the young woman. "Yellow is their leader's hair, and bright are their spears. He is very tall. Do you know of them?" she asked her companion.

The valet nodded slightly. "They are the riders of the east. The Ovkhan. The clan that live in the eastern steppes beyond the region of Albigan. They are proud and brutal, but they are generous in thought and deed. But I do not know what has happened to them as of late. The Ovkhan keep to themselves and to their lands."

They could hear the distant beat of galloping from their wolfbeasts. The riders, following the trail to the tournament, had turned and were drawing near the camp of the oaken grove. They swept up with a noise like thunder, and the foremost rider rode like the wind. After him, the others rode: a long line of armor-clad warriors, swift, shining, fell and fair to look upon.

Their wolfbeasts, named 'Ior' by the Ovkhan, were of great stature, strong, and swift; their grey coats glistened, their long fur flowed in the wind, the bangs on their fanged muzzles were braided along their jaws down to their neck; their faces were fierce and stern. In the riders' hands were tall spears with its tips laced with cortosis metal, painted shields were slung at their backs, long swords were at their belts, their burnished body armor hung upon their bodies. One of the riders carried the flag of their clan: a snarling, black Ior's head, facing to the right and set over a red background.

In pairs they galloped by, and though every now and then one rose in his stirrups and gazed ahead and to either side, they appeared not to perceive the two valets standing silently and watching them. The chieftan of the clan had almost passed when suddenly the male valet, called in a loud voice:

"Welcome to thy tournament of the McGreggors, riders of Clan Ovkhan."

With skill, the chieftan of the clan checked his beast, wheeled, and came toward them. Without a word or cry, the riders halted in their tracks and observed their leader advance forward until the point of his spear was within a foot of the valet's breast. The male valet did not stir, but his female companion stepped back in fear as the Ior snarled at her, its fangs bearing.

"You shall address me as Khan, young one, and not mere riders of Clan Ovkhan," said the chieftan, using the Basic speech of the outlanders, in manner and tone like to the speech of their clan.

The rider leaped from his beast. Giving the spear to another who rode up and dismounted at his side, he placed his hand upon the male valet's shoulder and stood face to face with him, surveying him keenly, and not without wonder. At length he spoke again.

"Inform the host of this tournament, Sir Wallace McGreggor, that Khan Svelvik Thun of Clan Ovkhan has arrived from the east to participate in this event. His invitation has been received. Go now and be swift." He bent his clear bright eyes upon the female valet and gave a curt smile. The pair quickly dismissed themselves from his presence and left toward the encampment.

Svelvik Thun stood motionless and surveyed his surroundings as his men dismounted from their wolfbeasts, his mind meditating on the eddies and currents of the Force. No words, no descriptions could begin to convey what it was like; the only way to understand it was to experience it. He had learned over long years of study and meditation how to interpret each and every vagary of its restless flow, no matter how slight.

And here, there was no doubt its presence was strong...

"Oh yes, fortunately." Recalling the startled expression she had presented him with at this very special night a cunny smile flickered across his face. Yes he had enjoyed that evening and she obviously also. It had been a valuable break for them both, had brightened up Coruscant's steel-grey skies for a while... and would remain their precious little secret.

"Imagine it had happened to me just yesterday." Aina immediately remembered his feigned dismay as he had unbelievingly checked his hairstyle upon her rather impolite comment. It had given her a fright.. before she realized he had just played a joke on her.

In the meantime nobody would take her for a ride that easily. Now that she had seen the light her self-assurance had been heightened considerably and she would not to take anything for granted just because it was claimed by one or the other authority. The world would no longer frighten her now that she had found a home within.

"The mere memory.. aye, it doesn't bear thinking about." Wallace embarrassed grimace made her laugh. A wonderful bell-like laughter, free and natural yet by no means pushy. It was worlds apart from the shy, halfway suppressed chuckle he had known before and although it was a pleasant sound the Lord realized the change with mixed feelings. What further changes had taken place in her 'under the insane influence of some jedi' and whether his plans would still work out was yet to be shown.

Kam at least seemed more than willing to give it a try.. what certainly was a good start. Upon his request to change to one of the shady marquees Wallace but laughed his self; His commitments as the host of this event would not allow such leisure anytime soon. Still, although the morning sun had already gone a long way towards its zenith, the arrival of some combatants was awaited full of suspense and the term 'combatant' would indeed be the suiting one after the tales and rumors he had heard about Clan Ovkhan and their infamous leader, Khan Svelvik Thun.

"Ah, this sounds very reasonable, Sir Solusar. Alas, I but won't be able to join thee" ,gestured he excusingly. "We shall talk lateron, Lady Aina, and at least one dance shouldst thou spare for this ould man" ,looking upon Kam and the young lady he indeed felt.. well, at least a little.. "I trust thou hast not made all the long way to stay for just one single day." Dismissing with a smile Wallace turned his back on the two of them as the sudden croak of a true kolk, an impressive raven-like bird, directed his attention to the horizon.

...Kam heard from a distance the rumbling of what sounded like thunder. Then over the hills of the east came a hurd of men on wolfbeasts. This was a grand sight. Another to join the tournament, a very large man stepped off his wolfbeast and started walking towards the festivities.

Wallace had declined Kam's offer and said he needed to tend to his guests, leaving Kam and Aina alone. Kam felt like a schoolboy again, nervous, and unable to speak. This was not the way of a noble, but something about Aina made Kam feel this way. He felt as if he just wanted to grab her and kiss her, but that kind of behavior only worked on wenches from the tavern. No this was definatly not a wench before him. He must remember what he was taught at such a young age on Vilhon. "The son of the king must mind his manners in front of a lady, he must respect her and embrace her spirit as if someday she would be your queen," his father always told him. Kam knew what he must do to gain favor with this women, but actually doing it was going to be a task.

"Lady Aina, would you mind taking a stroll with me. I love walking through the oak forrest at midday. The shade and the cool breeze makes for a soothing experience. I would also like to get away from the excitement for a while and would welcome the company of a beautiful woman."

Kam smiled shyly at Aina, hoping that she would follow. He did need to collect his thoughts after what had happened earlier today, and a nice walk in a cool, quiet place would do him good...

"Of course I will spare a dance for thee, Sir Wallace. And be sure we will have enough time to talk in the next few days. I told my master at the Jedi Academy I would be gone for a week to visit relatives." a warm smile accompanied her words, then she bowed slightly to say goodbye for now. A few moments she looked after the leaving gendar.

"He is a great man, isn't he?" she asked, more speaking to herself than to Kam, "One who hath not forgotten about the values of ould..." suddenly, she turned to the knight. "We need more men like him, Sir Solusar. More men who see the need to preserve our culture." She silenced for a moment, then she made an excusing face. "I am sorry, I didn't want to be impolite. Let's go for a walk, I have missed the woods far too long!" With these words she linked arms with him, smiling brightly.

Only a few months ago, Aina wouldn't have accepted Sir Solusars offer to stroll around with him without a chaperon accompanying them, but now she didn't mind anymore. The consciousness of the forces within her had made her more self-confident, and she didn't mind any longer for the thoughts of others. If her behaviour gave offence to anyone, it was not her fault. She didn't do anything bad. And furthermore, she wanted to be alone with this man. In a somehow strange way, she felt drawn towards him, and she was curious to find out more about him.

"So, Sir Solusar... where is Vilhon? I have never heard of such a land."

Wallace looked to the east. '..and see there comes the storm...' ,thought he to hisself, 'what i have heard telling of them was apparently not exaggerated.' Silently the knight watched the approaching of the eastmen. What he saw was the horde of Clan Ovkhan, vigourous warriors who were crossing the plains on their savage wolfbeasts. They always were an impressing sight, for one who had never seen them before even more so.

'So my father hath been right and it was more to it when he sayeth 'The [b]wind[/b] is from the east'.' Slowly the gendar advanced towards the eastern area of the extensive tournament court while still keeping an eye on their arrival and the more he saw of them the more his impression was strenghened.

'Oh yes, these men seem to carry the spirit of the unruly winds as it is the nature of the east. Unrestrained and fierce in temper and fighting they can hardly be controlled.. 'the wind bloweth where it listeth' is what he sayeth, yet 'a following wind doth bite the enemy's face'. Right he is and i am truly excited to learn about this tribe.'

Minutes later.. once more his eyes had been travelling to spot the fascinating lady, 'Oh young goddess of the night, where dost thou come from ? Which land could give birth to such unspeakable beauty.. thy hair black as midnight, thy face bright as the morning, thy eyes..' ..Samael, a slender, dark haired adolescent approached him running. "Lord McGreggor." His bow looked like the natural continuation of the previous motion as he halted in front of the noble. "I am sent to announce the arrival of.. uhm.. Khan Svelvik.. Thun of Clan Ovkhan."

McGreggor raised an eyebrow.. 'I absolutely must get to know thee'..slightly annoyed. He could be pretty picky when it came to the way of expressing oneself but this definitely was not the time for nit-picking. "Good, Samael, go care for their catering" ,responded Wallace and dismissed the lad with an 'attention, my young friend'-look. The eastmen were said to be impatient and proud - he could easily do without someone to throw a thoughtless comment or incorrectly emphasized name. Their first encounter would be difficult enough anyway. Motioning over five of his men he went to greet the arrivals.

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A stroll among the Oaks
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...Kam was please that the woman decided to join him. He was supprised by her willingness to be close to him. This also made Kam very happy, something Kam had not felt in quite a long time. He enjoyed her company and enjoyed the oaks and was enjoying life again.

A cold awakening came over Kam. The reason he was introduced to Aina in the first place. Yes he remembered Wallace's words. Kam came to a crossroads in his mind. He then came to a conclusion, not very rational, but a conclusion alas. Kam was going to attempt to do something that could come back to bite him in the end, but both Lady Aina and Wallace were worth trying to make this happen.

"Ah yes Vilhon, my old home. Vilhon is in the Tapani Sector. It is a beautiful forrest moon. It was colonized by my people for Vilhon has many jewels and ores to be mined. It is part of the core planets due to its proximity and wealth. There were about 350 noble families who colonized the area. William Solusar was one of many kings on Vilhon. He built a great colony, the people loved him. Our people was on the verge of greatness when the neighboring colony the Fandur, plundered our colony and killed my father. I escaped with only my life and the riches my family saved in offworld banks. I have been looking for a place to rebuild what we had on Vilhon ever since. I met Wallace McGreggor during my time roaming the galaxy and he spoke of a place called Othala, and here I am."

Kam smiled proudly at Aina, opening up was hard, but he was happy she wanted to learn more about him. "So Lady Aina tell me a little about yourself"...
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Arrival
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The beautiful spring air was rich with scents of the local fauna. Tedryn Sha felt at ease and more importantly he felt at home. The day had gone well. The lady Saraquiel had agreed to dance with him at the nights festivities and Solusar and him had buried the hatchet.

The ground literally shook beneath his feet causing him to reach for his sword. A large group of beasts were coming over the horizon. 'Ahh. The men of the East. So the legend is true', he thought.

A empty feeling invaded Tedryns heart. All these great men belonged to a clan or family, lined with a storied lineage, while he was a loner, without a pedigree. He began to walk to the tavern, intent on drinking a byssian ale, until he crossed the path of a mysterious individual. The force emanated from the stranger. He seemed to be watching the actions of Wallace McGreggor.

Tedryn approached the man positioning himself between the two. "Who are you and why are you following our good host?" Tedryn fingered his lightsaber to show the seriousness of the matter. He only realized after looking into the interloper's eyes that it was Wallaces master Vance Jas in disguise. The situation was now extrememly dangerous.
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Re: A stroll among the Oaks
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Jerrid had also followed Tedryn Shaws' activities around the festivities. Wallace had not chosen to introduce them to each other yet, as he wanted Jerrid to enjoy himself here. There would be plenty of time for formalities later. Jerrid had gathered from his observations that Tedryn Sha was a welcomed quest and ally of Wallace. But alas, he was told to keep distance from his guests till such a time was ready to meet all of Wallaces' allies.

Now it seemed, Tedryl Sha had put himself in an awkward situation. The man Vance Jas, (as Jerrid came to find out) was a master saber wielder. He was considered sith in the eyes of the Jedi. But all who are force apt and not of the Jedi religion.. are all sith. "Eye, the Jedi", thought Jerrid. "All who are force apt and don't follow their teachings, their faith... are outcasts. Infidels... unfaithful... and dangerous to them. The Jedi call such people ;Sith.

This Vance... He seemed familiar, but Jerrid could not place him. He felt he had meet up with him before.. or encountered him... here. But there were so many people about... He must of passed or seen him a few days ago. This confrontation between these two men looked like it was going to heat up, as Shas' hand was on his weapon already. A lot of tension was building up in Sha, Jerrid felt. The other gentleman appeared to be calmer, but nothing less, also prepared. This was not good...

Jerrids' code would have him get involved if things got out of hand. Jerrid was aware he was unarmed.. but Tedryl Sha was a guest and ally of Wallace. An attack on Tedryl would be an attack on Wallace. One way or another... he would have to get involved. Wallace would not be pleased, but what choice would Jerrid have. His loyalty to the House of McGreggor would leave him no choice, but to get involved...

His heart was already approaching full throttle. Jerrid could feel the adrenalin exciting his senses. The thumping of blood through his veins were enriched with it. The thumping was getting louder... It was also coming from elsewhere!

Jerrids' viewpoint of the two men, allowed him to focus pass them and see a sight he had only dreamed of... ... Riders on Wolfbeasts! He remembered the tales from his childhood...

This was good... in a way. Vance and Tedryl had also turned their attention to this spectacle, heading toward the fairgrounds. Jerrid stood his distance from these two men... He may not have to get involved... A smile was upon Jerrid. Yes, his heart still raced... but for a different type of excitement! "So... The Okhan Clan still rides", said Jerrid to himself.
"Eye... if what my father has taught me is true... Then this will be a great day!" , he told himself. The excitement in his smile could not, and was not, meant to be hidden. The Okhan Clan were riding in... This was no sight anyone would take lightly.

As they neared, Jerrid made out the wolfbeast pelts on the armor of the lead rider. "The Khan..." softly spoke Jerrid. Un-aware the words had come out of his lips. *Yes... This was going to be a Great Day! *

Sending for his raven, Sir Houston, and four of his knightly vassals to accompany him in following his hostly duties Wallace casually noticed Tedryn's tensed bearing. Considering the young warrior was standing just in front of Lord Jas this looked like the beginning of yet another disaster.

'Alas, young man, it really seems thou fanciest a life on the edge' ,the Byssian's hand had already clasped the handle of... his lightsaber.. oh nay. Haven't i told him these weapons were taboo around here ? Probably i haven't expressed myself clearly..' It had come to Wallace' notice a few times by now that some people just did not detect what he was telling them between the lines. More than once, especially in discussion with offworlders, the well-bred Othalan had been shocked an actual interlocutor's ignorance that had forced him to express his matter of concern in a more obvious way than he would have prefered to. '..or this lad is just addicted to trouble. Anyhow this time he hath definitely picked the wrong one to mess with.'

Still Wallace could not imagine why Tedryn would want to challenge his master. He had not noticed any hostile activity from his side.. '..although i have been forced to treat him in such embarrassing way.' Wallace had not enjoyed the little 'incident' they had had earlier on, he was but pretty sure Vance had subjected him to one more of his unpleasant examinations. 'He's assessing me.. he doth still not belief i have overcome my low point.' The idea woke his anger although.. or perhaps rather because he could comprehend his master's doubts;

Only when Vance had come to visit him around the forsaken planet of Coruscant the Othalan had finally realized the extent of his present debility. Still now the recollection of this day was painfully embarrassing. 'But i have now outgrown this feebleness.. and the reasons for this disease art no mystery to me any longer for now i know the pest.'

Quickly Wallace instructed Keeronas, an outstanding servant he had chosen for this special task.

"Sir Sha" ,pretending he had not even noticed the tensed situation McGreggor called for the unlucky thing 'if we were to sneak through a mine thou wouldst be the one to throw the bucket into the well', "work is waiting. Come on, accompany me to greet the honourable arrivals."

"Lord Jas" ,he then addressed his master politely, "i must apologize i have to abduct thine interlocutor. Please accept but the services of my trusted valet" ,upon the command Keeronas performed a perfect bow in front of Vance. "He shalt anticipate thine every wish."

Loosely flanked by four of his men the noble expected Tedryn to follow as he approached the men and.. women of the east. Wallace noted the detail with an uncomfortable feeling. The idea of female warriors had something odd and he would not easily get used to such strange customs.

The small group of queribus knights looked handsome as they crossed the now open area. Coat of chain glittering here and there under heavy, dark green and earthcoloured robes and the leathern protectors they wore across the forearm - probably to enhance the grip of the shields they would wear in battle. A certain tension was in the air as the distance between these two different cultures was diminuished.. step by step..

Halting in front of the impressive man who obviously was.. their chieftan.. McGreggor raised his hand in a greeting gesture and addressed the leader aloud and clear. "Khan Svelvik Thun, leader of Clan Ovkhan. I am honoured to welcome thee and the thine in the name of my entire House." Slowly he looked over the arrivals and they indeed were a fascinating view.. intriguing yet strange. "Thou hast had an awfully long journey so.. a decent meal and some refreshment should be a good start."

Never reveal too much about yourself...

The young lady put back a strand that had loosened from the ribbon she had slung around the thick bunch of dark curls in her neck. Her heart was jumping with joy to be at Othala again, to walk beneath the mighty oaks, in the greenish shadows their leaves were throwing under the light of the sun, and to breath the fresh air. The only thing she still missed was the salty breeze of the ocean - and her sisters.

She listened up when Kam mentioned the killing of his father, and threw a compassionate glance at him. "I am sorry to hear about the fate of thy people... it must be very hard to be parted from thy kin... and thy home." The young woman silenced for a moment, looking down at the leave-covered ground they were walking on. She remembered how she had felt in her first weeks at the Academy, so far away from her home and everything she loved. At least, she had always known her home still existed, and that she could return some day. And yet, she knew how much it hurt to loose someone beloved.

When she raised her head again, a single sunray caught itself in her eyes, lighting up the blue depths that seemed like abysses in an ocean. "Well... there is not much to tell about myself... I grew up at Eilean Donil, that's the stronghold of Clan Teshwan. It lieth in the province of Donil, on white cliffs high above the Kervallian Ocean. It's a wonderful part of Othala, very fertile grounds with rich pastures and huge forests with many beasts. But the most wonderful thing about it art the rivers and lakes, and the ocean itself..." her eyes began to gleam as she thought of her homelands. "My life was not very exciting. I grew up like every other noble's child..."

Aina didn't want to speak too freely about the circumstances that had lead her to Coruscant. She had been taught early in her life that information which was given to someone thoughtlessly could be used against herself and against the whole clan, and though she liked the Vilhonian noble, she still didn't know anything about him. She had said too much already. 'I should be more careful what I say to Wallace in the presence of others...' she scolded herself.
Furthermore, she remembered what her mother had always told her. 'Never reveal too much about yourself, my dear. The mysteries about a woman art what make her interesting in the eyes of men. And your secrets art your only real possessions, besides the love that's in you, giving them away too easily means to give away your most valuable belongings.'

"Thou must tell me about thy space-journeys, Sir Solusar! This sounds so exciting!" she said, her eyes turned on him wide open, like the eyes of a curious child.

"Who are you and why are you following our good host?" Came a sudden voice from beside Vance, as the Sith Lord slowly glanced toward the being who had now stepped infront of him. Looking at the man before him, Vance smiled, his ice blue eyes glowing, "I am but a simple Lord, and I am here on invitation from Lord McGreggor..." And glancing to Wallace, Vance's eyes flashed with anger, "And I am not intentionly following the famed host, but rather looking over the many stalls which are filled with items I find of great interest..."

Vance smiled once again, as he adjusted his red shirt beneath his ornament armor, 'This young man is rather hotheaded, prepared to lunge at anything that moves... How, pathetic.' And inclining his head, Vance's eyes flashed once again, the shadows seeming to grow around him, "For all concerned, Lord Tedryn, I would warn of you to leave my side now." Vance looked into Tedryn's eyes, "Your concern for Lord Wallace is founded, but your threatening me is amusing... Leave me, now."

And turning, Vance started toward another stall, thinking of how young Tedryn had much growth to follow, and how he should learn the meaning of respect; much like Wallace had forgotten himself, since the Lord of the McGreggor clan seemed to have pushed some teachings aside for more important lessons, which would work to his own benefit.....


The situation was tense but the aura around this man was pure evil. Tedryn however would not back down. It seemed a standoff until Sir Wallace intervened. Turning he saw the reason for the excitement. Men and women of a warrior caste had arrived on the mythical wolfbeast's that had been legend in his ancestral land of Valhalla.

Ignoring the threat behind him, Tedryn walked by Wallaces side to meet the clan. Khan Svelvik Thun, leader of Clan Ovkhan stood tall and proud, eyes fixed on Wallace and his entourage. Tedryns inate ability with the force was his uncanny ability to understand the emotions and intentions of men. He focused on the auslanders.

He felt strength, honor, and pride emanate from the muscular leader. This one would be a loyal ally or a bitter enemy he thought

The rest of the clan was on edge, after all, the eastmen were unfamiliar with this region of Othala. Tedryn stepped forward, edged with his faithful sword Nothung , adorned with his wolfbeast cape. He looked every inch of the warrior he had become. Stepping forward he spoke.

"Greetings Svelvik Thun, leader of Clan Ovkhan, I am Tedryn of Clan Sha. I hail from the ancient land of Valhalla on the planet Byss."

The leader eyed him suspiciously and waited for him to continue. "As you can see I am wearing a cape made from a youngling wolfbeast. I am a hunter and I earned this trophy when i enlisted the aid of the great Ainur, the warrior bird of Othala."

He stood tall radiating strength and honor, for men like Svelvik would respect nothing less and sense duplicity. "Perhaps after the first round of the august tournament, we can hunt together."

Tedryn smiled at Wallace, sending him thoughts that the auslanders were trustworthy and deserving of a grand reception. Turning he reached for the Eastmens large hand.

For a few minutes Svelvik Thun stood at the outskirts of the tournament grounds, his entourage of clan warriors standing beside him, bearing shields at their backsides and spears in their hands, letting the cool afternoon breeze ruffle their hair. The female Ovkhan warriors standing beside their Khan appearing more intimidating than their leader, as their long tresses danced in the wind under their helms. The howls of the wolfbeasts were heard among them, as Svelvik quieted one of the beasts.

"Be still, Drang, or these men will not feed you."

The ior peered out from the crowd of Ovkhan warriors onto the grounds, its front paws gripping the rich soil, its fanged muzzle close to the dirt as if on the hunt.

"I said be still. Here-- this should cheer thou self." Svelvik tossed a piece of dried meat from his pouch in the ior's direction. Drang's lethargy vanished into a single coiled-spring leap as it snagged the mouthful in midair.

"There," the Khan called after him. "Now go and wait for thou supper."

The ior retreated to be among his pack, which supported the riders of the east on thier backs. "Very well," the Khan said, shifting his attention back toward the tournament grounds. "Let us feast our eyes upon this grand display."

Even in the middle of the day the tournament was a bustle of activity, with knights, warriors and steeds intertwining to form a sort of flowing work of art. Overhead, the low-lying clouds were a dim sculptured ceiling stretching in all directions, with the same apparent endlessness as the land itself. Far to the west, Svelvik could just make out the Albigan mountains, their snow-covered peaks illuminating the scenery around the tournament.

Indeed, this is a vast and fertile land like the eastern steppes of our home...

He was gazing at the mountains when, appearing before him and his entourage, a small group of men approached them as they crossed the open area of the tournaments.

Ah, the clan of Queribus approach us. The McGreggors still prevail after the Blood Wars and have prospered enough to grace us with an invitation to their land.

Automatically, his hand moved toward the hilt of his sword; but the motion had barely begun before it stopped. The sense he felt of the knight coming toward him was not in challenge, but in welcome.

So this is Sir Wallace McGreggor... indeed a worthy challenge of his clan, Svelvik thought in his mind as the knight addressed him and his entourage. He noticed the impressed state displayed on his face as he looked over his armored warriors. A surge of pride raced over Svelvik as he returned the gesture and bowed slightly to him.

"Sir Wallace McGreggor of the Queribus... Seyla! It is thine honor to have graced your presence and to have invited us to this grand event. Thy warriors of Clan Ovkhan are honored to participate in this tournament you have organized and will not fail in showing the true spirit of our clan." The Khan nodded toward one of his soldiers, who brandished the emblem of Clan Ovkhan upon his shield as he held it, the flag of the Ovkhan whipping in the background as the cool breeze descended again.

Despite his boisterous mood, Svelvik couldn't help but smile. He clasped a hand over Wallace's shoulder and waved over to his group. "Thou words speak truth, Sir Wallace. Our journey has taken us many days across the east and our last meal was in the village of Icar before crossing the great eastern steppes. My men are famished and my wolfbeasts crave meat after their long crossing." Before he could continue, another approached the group of clansman. This one stepped forward with his sword and was adorned with a cape made of wolfskin.

Ah, one who has slain the Ior wolfbeast... indeed another warrior deserving of greeting, he thought again as this one addressed himself. Svelvik gazed upon him and did not flinch in his expression as this one continued his explanation of the ior on his back.

And I was right... a hunter as well. And he knows Ainur, the great bird.

Svelvik pulled his hand away from Wallace's shoulder and clasped it upon Tedryn's hand, shaking it with a firm grip.

"Seyla! Tedryn of Clan Sha! Thou stories of Valhalla have been heard by our clansman who travelled outside our lands. If you claim you are as good a hunter by wearing the ior on your back, then I shalt be honored to hunt with you. Indeed, songs will be weaved from our hunts." The Khan's face flashed into a large grin, calming the atmosphere around the rival clans.

Svelvik again waved a hand toward the direction of the large tents, the rich smells of meat roasting and sounds of ale being poured, added to the delight of the Khan's senses.

"So what are we waiting for?! Lead us, Sir Wallace and Tedryn, the Ovkhan hunger and we await ale, raging fires, and meat from the bone!"

As Svelvik Thun walked across the grounds with his entourage of warriors beside him and the clansman ahead, he shivered, and not from the cool afternoon air. This place is strong with the side of darkness. I can feel it feeding upon me. So inviting... The really maddening part of it was that he couldn't sense any such concentration of evil in the tournament area.

But just because he couldn't sense it didn't necessarily mean it wasn't there...

...As he gave a quick glance to a chastely dressed maiden with ravenblack tresses, accompanied by her escort.

"In this case we shalt combat hunger first" ,joined the knight into the warrior's grin.

Fortunately, due to lengthy and careful preparations, everything was taken care of. Plenty of tasty food and drink for both men and beasts had been provided and Wallace was pleasantly surprised to find these crucial moments, this first 'culture clash' after a long time, going off without a hitch.

Nevertheless.. the sight of the female warriors was bothering him and the idea he might have to engage one of these mannish women disturbed him considerably. 'Mayhaps this exactly is their purpose.. to bewilder the enemy. What else should be the point of arming a woman ? They art not able-bodied to get through a serious fight anyway..' Wallace dearly hoped their Khan did not expect him to allow this womenfolk to the contests.

Furtively he looked at his knightly protégé. Did the young Byssian share his aversion ? It did not seem so. Tedryn rather looked as if he had just spotted a new flame. Following the younger man's gaze Wallace' eye fell on an imposing blonde. Now that she had taken off the helmet her long lustrous hair was streaming in the breeze... while she gave him a hostile look upon his glance. The Othalan sighed inwardly. More trouble ! Or the best thing that could have happened ? Only time would tell.

'At least he won't take further interest in...' ,Wallace glanced over the crowd. Was she still there ? The idea she might leave - he might never ever see her again was a sting to his heart although he would not even know her name. He felt foolish. Why the hell was he feeling such pressure ? Every woman around would be pleased to make his aquaintance and the maiden did not even seem to be of noble birth. Pulling hisself together he focused his mind on the necessary arrangements.

Knowing the Ovkhan would not leave their beasts unprovided-for a cartload of raw meat and bones had quickly been brought to their place and in no time, after their owners had 'released the prey', the pack fell on the booty - following but their own unambiguous hierarchy. Wallace really had to tear hisself away from the fascinating spectacle yet the sight of the hungry warriors immediately reminded him of his duties.

Fortunately Tedryn was reasonable enough to postpone his flirtation. Since the Ovkhan's arrival he indeed did his best to come up to the position he had been designated for. The formerly quarrelsome man seemed willing to take responsibility and Wallace acknowledged his action through an appreciative look as they led their guests through the crowd.

Although everything seemed to run smoothly McGreggor stood observant. A walkover could easily turn into a disastrous defeat if one failed noticing the crucial details, '..and we don't want to be easy meat, do we ?'. Jerrid was attentive; alertly he had caught Wallace' subtle hint and remained in proximity to his entourage.

Commoners gaped in astonishment, nobles acted interestedly, some infants held on to the hem of their mother's coat - others desperately sought to break free from their parent's firm grip - while the group of foreign warriors made their way to the largest tent around the area where parts of several nerfs as well as numerous entire schwoins (large, half wild boars, feeding from acorn and toadstools.. well mushrooms as well, whenever the schwoin was fast enough) were roasting over the open fires while chilled ale was flowing like water.

It was then when Lord McGreggor used an idiom he might rather have avoided in context with such boisterous warriors - "Make thyselves at home" ,was what he sayeth..

Cries of, "The Khan... The Ovkhan Clans... " were heard sporadically among the spectators. It seemed crowds were forming in the direction of these new guests.

Everyone had to see for themselves, yet keeping their distances and places. This event was rare and seldom ever seen in these parts. It wasn’t everyday you meet these legendary people.
These Warrior Knights on wolfbeasts weren't to trifle with, and non dared to get near them. One doesn't just come up to these Nobles from the West and bid them a hello.
No... These Warrior Lords and their Khan were invited guests, and the host of this affair had to be the one to greet them and welcome them properly. The same would apply if Gavin himself were to visit these Ovkhan people. The Khan or high Chieftain would meet and offer Gavin hospitality to his House.

Seeing how Wallace and his friend Tydren Sha had made them feel welcome from the start, the crowds seemed more at ease but still somewhat conprehensive. The odd thing about these warriors was... that some of them were women. This Jerrid had never seen before, women at arms before. Their behavior and handling of their wolfbeasts were like the men warriors. This fashinated Jerrid more than anything. Imagine that… Women warriors. “Wonder if they’ll join in on the tournaments”, was coming across his mind.

As Jerrid stood watch in fascination, Wallace had looked his way momentarily and made eye contact. The message was all to clear to Jerrid. Soon all introductions would be at hand. It seemed Wallace was awaiting these Ovkhans to arrive first. Time for the observer to be involved.

A great many people had gathered (at some distance) now to gaze on the feeding wolfbeasts. It was some sight to see. “Imagine riding such beasts”, thought Jerrid. “I wonder at what age they teach their children to handle them.”

Yes… he wondered, as the many small children here were seen hiding, and only a few dared to view this spectacle. The few who mustered up some courage, were in the ready to make a sprint should one of the wolfbeasts look this way. They may soon do so, once they eat their fill… that is if they ever do get filled. It seemed they ate everything that was thrown their way with no end in their appetite. Jerrid couldn’t help but wonder if they weren’t just given the cart full of carnage, but several carts… at what point would they stop?…

But enough of this circus… He had more important things to think about. Wallace was going to introduce him to all his important guests soon… This was the reason he was back on Othala in the first place… To join forces and take on the most powerful Government this galaxy had ever known… ...The Empire.

...Kam listened to the stories of Aina's past, though she did not reveal much of herself. "It seems that she has secrets as well," he said to himself. Then she brought up his past again. Kam was caught in the middle of something good that could go wrong if he gave out too much information. He decided to reveal small portions at a time.

"Yes you are correct, some of the journey's I took were very exciting. I will start from the beginning," Kam took a deep breath and began telling his story.

"I left Vilhon having the worst feeling I have ever felt. Hatred! I wanted vengance. It felt as if I wasn't even myself, I was another being full of fury. I flew until I needed rest and landed on the planet Thyfera. There I took shelter and ate at the local tavern. It was a dark place and full of the same hate that I was feeling at the time. There I enrolled myself into a place where I could learn some combat manouvers. I became very involved in learning and enjoyed myself. I was happy on Thyfera until the people there wanted me to execute missions that would end in death to innocents. I lied to them. During my first mission I left Thyfera and never went back. I then flew from system to system taking on odd jobs, all the while thinking what a man told me once. He told me that there was this place called Othala, a place that sounded familiar. It sounded like Vilhon. I took this man's advice and came here looking for him, to serve him in anyway that I could. That man as you know is Wallace McGreggor and I am here and am happier than I have been in ages," Kam finished with a smile.

"Lady Aina, I have enjoyed our walk, but I am getting hungry. Is there someplace where we can eat without getting involved with all of the festivities. I am really enjoying your company and our conversation," Kam said shyly. He wanted to continue talking with this beauty, but was in great need of some nourishment.

Vance Jas stood within the shadows, watching the proceedings, the newly arrived and the greetins, 'Ah, such a large gathering... There is no doubt that something more than a mere fighting spectical is occuring here this day,' Vance glanced to his left, seeing the young Tedryn again, 'And I intend on remaining here to see what it is...'

With blue eyes bright, Vance Jas gave an unpleasant smile at the young warrior who had challenged him moments before, the Sith Lord almost invisible within the darkness beside the stalls; dispite his clothing being of a bright red hue......

Clash of differences...


Khan Svelvik Thun turned to Sir Wallace of the McGreggors and nodded, "Indeed we shalt make ourselves as if in our own land." The pair along with the Khan's sibko passed under the large folds of the tent, which opened direct into a large area, with other smaller entrances at the far end, with wood burning at one side.

Svelvik and his Ovkhan warriors sat themselves down at one end of a long table, as the wenches quickly tended to their needs with dishes, bowls, cups, knives and food of various sorts. "Will thou have wine or ale?" one of the wenches asked an Ovkhan.

"We shall have all of it!" the cries came around the table. Laughter and back-clasping surrounded the interior atmosphere of the tent. "Ah... schwoin! My favorite!" another sibko remarked. The warrior knight rose slightly from the table and lunged his dagger into the meat, sliced a sliver, then placed it upon his dish. In due time, the Ovkhan became busy with their meals, using their fingers and hands instead of eating utensils.

"Thou art full of courtesy Sir Wallace," Svelvik remarked, as he looked upon his guest over the top of his cup. "My sibko are grateful for thine meal. We hath foul fare with our long journey, and little to eat for days before that. It seems a long while since we could eat to heart's content. And thou ale is refreshing to thy parched lips."

It was then Svelvik caught with the corner of his eye, a spectacle unfolding before him. One of the Queribus knights had fancied one of his female sibko, who was accompanied by her group of trothkin. The knight made the trouble to step over to the warrior Ovkhan and bowed slightly to her, as she took a sip from her mug of chilled ale. The Khan had listened to stories about the McGreggors and their reputation to woo the females of their kin with words and poetry.

"Aye, m'lady, you are indeed a beauty to set mine eyes upon thee..."

The female Ovkhan snarled at him and reached out for her dagger, dropping the mug of ale upon the floor. Before he had time to react, she swung it expertly around her body and stopped short of his throat. The knight of the McGreggor clan staggered and breathed heavily, as the edge of her blade tickled against his jugular.

"How dare you address me as Lady!" she hissed, holding the dagger still. "I am an honorable sibko and not a lady of the laborer caste! I am a blooded warrior who serves in the keshik of my Khan! I shall have your blood and claim your sword as isorla!"

"Aejon!" Svelvik cried out to the sibko from the end of the table. "Release him! He hath done you no wrong or insult! He does not know our ways. He is not Ovkhan!"

"He hath insulted mine honor and status!" she protested. "At least give me the satisfaction of zellbrigen with this chalcas!" Her eyes burned with anger as she glared directly at the knight's face without flinching. "Nay!" Svelvik responded, his fist pounding upon the armchair. "If thou wish to engage batchall with this one, then request it in the tournament. But for now, release him from your blade Aejon, or be removed from service in my keshik!"

Aejon turned to her Khan, then released her hold from the knight. She bowed slightly to Svelvik Thun and sheathed her dagger. "Forgive me, my Khan. I request surkai for my actions."

"You should request surkai to Sir Wallace and his poor knight that you have threatened," Svelvik retorted, waving his hand toward the McGreggor. "After all, we are his guests and he is our host."

The Khan rose in his seat and turned to him, extending his palms outward in a humble gesture, and bowed slightly. "Forgive our ways, Sir Wallace of the McGreggors. My trothkin do not know the ways of your land and as you can see, our cultures are vastly different..."

Tedryn slowed as good Wallace and the warrior leader proceeded to the banquet hall. During their meeting he had become entranced with a tall and imposing blonde. It was fabled in the land of Valhalla of the exploits of Sir Tedryn Sha when it came to women. He was stunned with her physical beauty but even more taken with the inner strength she radiated.

He gazed longingly as she took off her ceremonial helmet, releasing long lustrous hair that smelled of the wild orchids that grew on Byss. Her first look at him was quite unfriendly but he had seen that look before. Barmaids, wenches, and even Bürgermeisters's daughters had succumed to Tedryns charms. This warrior goddess would be no different.

He saw the furtive and concerned glance of sir Wallace. Through the force he projected confidence and strength. It is ok my old friend. I know what i am doing.

Straightening his wolfbeast cloak he strode toward the young maiden who by now was aware of the byssians interest. "Aye, m'lady, you are indeed a beauty to set mine eyes upon thee..."

The utterance of these word enraged the beauty before him. She lashed out at Tedryn, brandishing her silvery dagger. Before Tedryn could react, her blade was pressed firmly against his throat. Tedryn's eyes blazed fiercely at the woman daring her to finish what she had started. "How dare you address me as Lady!" she spat at him. "I am an honorable sibko and not a lady of the laborer caste! I am a blooded warrior who serves in the keshik of my Khan! I shall have your blood and claim your sword as isorla!"

Tedryn had no idea what this women spoke of. Her customs were most strange and it seemed as if he had finally pushed to far. He smiled at the lady, enraging her further. He was not so quick to give up the chase. "Aejon!" the great Khan commanded. Svelvik cried out to the sibko from the end of the table. "Release him! He hath done you no wrong or insult! He does not know our ways. He is not Ovkhan!" She replied angrily "He hath insulted mine honor and status!"

"My sweet princess" Tedryn spoke delicately, "if you would but let me explain." She ignored him, pressing the cold blade, drawing blood. She turned back to her leader. "At least give me the satisfaction of zellbrigen with this chalcas!"

She returned Tedryns look of defiance and prepared to take his life. "Nay!" Svelvik intervened, "If thou wish to engage batchall with this one, then request it in the tournament. But for now, release him from your blade Aejon, or be removed from service in my keshik!"

The tall woman released Tedryn from her grasp. She honored the Khan and then replaced the blade into her hilt. Tedryn was astonished at the womans tenacity and ferocity. Obviously these warriors were not raised on the virtue and valor of those hailing from Valhalla.

"My good lady, despite our differences, I would be most honored if you might accompany me to the joust that will be held this evening. It might allow us to learn about each others great cultures." He waited for her response but he prepared for another assault. To show his respect and sincerity he bowed elegantly to the blonde, flashing his widest and most charming smile. The chase was just beginning for Sir Tedryn Sha.

'Oh NO !' McGreggor who had been standing not too far from Sha had noticed the incident in consternation. 'Berkana must've left something out when she put thee together!',cursed he the cocky wolfskin-bearer inwardly.

Tedryn... Again ! Wallace had hoped the Byssian's experiences and temperament would be of benefit in the welcoming and possible negotiations with the Ovkhan but the conclusion he had to draw from what happened right before his eyes was that the young man was loyal to his hormone-lance first.

What other explanantion should there be for the fact that he had just addressed this female Ovkhan as a 'lady' again after knowing that she and others of her caste regarded the term as an offence ?

Through his unacceptable.. irresponsible behaviour he put the needed alliance at risk - an alliance that was crucial for the continued existence of Othala - and Lord McGreggor would by no means believe that this embarrassing display of impertinence was part of some cunny plan. 'If not a plan to foil the unity of the clans...'

Wallace was not quick to take offence still his magnanimous manner would not apply to someone who's actions were jeopardizing Othala's safety. Tedryn Sha had caused trouble since his arrival.. but right now he had become a political liability.

'It seems he doth not take me for serious after my accommodating attitude - Kam was right - and the decision to entrust him with matters of diplomacy was a grave mistake. Now i must take the appropriate steps to limit the damage...'

Wallace nodded for the attention of the Khan's gesture of goodwill and considered the situation in a matter of seconds. As his leader he was responsible for Tedryn's actions - no matter whether the knight originated from another world, no matter whether he had not yet had the time to conform. Mentioning anything like that would have meant to make excuses - probably the worst thing he could do when it came to a proud and savage warriorclan.

After all he had understood after studiing the Ovkhan's culture strength was of essential importance. Strength, severity, resoluteness.

The.. woman.. had been threatened with the demotion to a lower caste so Tedryn's punishment would have to comprise at least the same scale of degradation. 'Considering the significance of the whole matter he would've deserved the penalty of death...' ,Wallace wrathfully thought. Yet to those who were not aware of the entire background such would have signified wastefulness... a trait that was not part of any Othalan's mindset.

The warriors next to them had fallen silent after the young knight had insulted their fellow sibko a second time. Tedryn but self-confidently finished a perfect bow and smilingly focused his eyes and attention on his chosen goddess. An atmosphere of tautness was spreading... still Aejon refrained from a repeated assault -- her angry gaze was fixed on something behind him.

Spinning around ready to face the expected challenger, probably an enraged Ovkhan 'mate' - for this was what he expected after his extensive experiences in love affairs - an armoured gauntlet hit his cheek in a violent backhander that almost made him stumble into Aejon's arms.

"Wait in my quarters. We'll talk about that later."

McGreggor. If looks could kill ! Wallace had not shouted at him - no, quite the reverse - his command was of menacing calmness his piercing glance however was a nasty mixture of wrath and... disappointment. Sha was shocked. The fact it was him hit the young knight like a bolt from the blue.

Challenge...

The interior of the tent was inherently elegant, richly and beautifully executed. Its beauty and refinement stood in marked contrast to the behavior of the people in the tent, which was noisy, boisterous, crude.

In front of the wood fire was laid the high table, draped in white linen, with dishes of polished metal, all heaped high with food. Little tuskcats scampered across the table, helping themselves to the food as they liked-- until a man at the end of the table swatted them away with a curse. He stabbed with his knife at food and ate noisily, grunting to his companions.

But despite the elegant accoutrements, the impression the table conveyed was of a dangerous petulance-- their eyes darted around the tent as they ate, alert to any insult, spoiling for a fight. They were edgy and quick to strike; when one of the little tuskcats came back to eat again, one of the warriors unhesitatingly jabbed it in its rear with the point of his dagger; the animal jumped off and ran yelping and bleeding from the tent.

The Ovkhan sibko laughed, wiped the tuskcat's blood off the tip of his blade, and continued to eat.

The Ovkhan seated at the table shared the joke with their trothkin. From the look of them, they were all sibko, the Khan's contemporaries, and all were elegantly dressed in their armor-- though none matched the finery of their leader. And three or four women, young, pretty and fierce, in their matching armor and with loose, wanton hair, laughing with mugs of ale in their hands, completed the scene.

She stared, and a word came unbidden to her mind: Ovkhan. This was her Khan. They were her people. And they were enjoying the festivities Sir Wallace had offered to them, until they were rudely interrupted by a knight who dared to insult their culture and ways. At least according to Aejon, sibko ristar of Clan Ovkhan.

The scene had now changed. The festive atmosphere of the tent had now become silent, due to her pride and honor. The knight she opposed at his attempt at wooing, richly dressed in his wolfskin, but had the tough, weathered face of a campaigner, was suddenly battered by an armored gauntlet carried by Sir Wallace of the McGreggors. Aejon smiled inwardly, feeling completely vidicated as she awaited the knight's response to the McGreggor, until the voice of her Khan bellowed forth. "Aejon! Come beside me now."

She wasted no time and quickly made her way to present herself to her Khan, bowing slightly as she took his side. "What sayeth he to thee?" Svelvik inquired quietly. "He dared to ask me to accompany him to the tournament's joust this evening. I would rather take his blood with mine own hand," she hissed in a whisper.

"Thou shalt accept it, Aejon," Svelvik simply replied in a low tone, "thou art one of the best sibko under my keshik, and thou art a ristar. Thou shalt be a prime example of the might of Clan Ovkhan. I will spare thee from being removed for thy behavior, if thou dost this." Good. I will take his blood. It will be my own gift to me. And me only...

Aejon snarled, looking toward Sha and Wallace. She looked about the Byssian angrily, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword, her eyes sweeping the tent, as if seeking another culprit to insult her honor again. "I accept, my Khan. When the Queribus finisheth his business with this poet, I will accept his invitation," she whispered in return, lowering her head to his ear...

Aina lowered her head in embarrassment. "I would never dare to consider thy tales as boring, Sir Solusar! Indeed, they art quite exciting... but they also sound very sad to me." she paused, searching for the right words while playing with a blade of grass, "I was very disappointed when my father sent me away from Othala... I felt like I was the most unfairly treated being in the whole universe. But now I know there art beings who have had a much harder life than I will ever have." With these words, Aina thought of Zeal, her chosen 'brother', who had been a slave once.

She looked up again and showed a forced smile. "I don't want to bore thee, Sir Solusar."
The young lady picked some flowers and began to bind a garland, like her mother had showed her years ago. From one moment to the other, she felt like a young girl again, lonesome, helpless and vulnerable. All the strength she had earned by learning how to control the Force seemed like nothing when she thought of all the hatred and pain which was spread all over the universe. The intention of the Jedi to bring peace to the universe still seemed like an impossibility to Aina, though her master had done everything to strengthen her self-confidence and convince her of this noble aim.

”Those people who gave thee the command to kill innocents… why would they do such things?” The question came unexpected, out of nowhere. Aina had stopped her work and looked straight at the noble. Deep within she knew the reason – it was the struggling for power which let men do such things. It was the same reason why there was so much hatred between her father and the old Lord McGreggor. And it must be the reason why Kam had stayed at such a place like Thyferra – to gain enough power to take vengeance. It didn’t matter which reasons one had to gain power, it always ended with suffering…

It felt as if a fist of Iron had struck Tedryn Sha in the jaw. The last thing he knew was that he was smiling at the good lady before him in a genuine effort to apologize and then he had felt a familiar presense from behind. Naturally, he thought it must be the womans suitor, but alas, Tedryn was wrong.

Wiping the blood from his mouth, Tedryn refused to show any sense of pain or shock. The armoured hand had cut his jaw, leaving him with a gash that would need tending too. Surveying the area he saw but one individual near enough to do such a thing. Wallace McGreggor. His friend and benefactor had the look of death in his eyes, aimed directly at the young Byssian.

I never thought he would do that to me. I owe him so much he thought. Anger flooded his heart like a bursting dam. He felt humiliated, just as he did when he was but a poor straggler desperately trying to make a life for himself. A soldier of Valhalla would never let such disgrace go unpunished. Ignoring the pain and the blood he walked slowly to stand before Wallace.

"Respect you deserve Sir Wallace for all that you have given me. But a son of Valhalla would never let such action an action pass." He closed with the great man before him, and loudly announced. "I will joust with good Aejon, sibko ristar of Clan Ovkhan. However if i win I want her as my bride. As for you good Wallace, we shall finish this, as you said, in private."
Turning to the Khan he bowed. "You must excuse me for i must prepare for this evenings joust." with that he left.

***

...Kam was slowly becoming infatuated with this woman. The was she spoke, the way she held herself. She was something out of a tale. His mind was suddenly awaken from this spell her beauty cast on him when she asked another question about his past.

"Aina, as you have probably heard, there are two forces at work in this universe. A force working for good and one working for evil. The people who I fled to after the fandur masacered my people were evil. I had hatered flowing through me. I wanted vengance. I am beyond that now, I have seen the path that evil lays, I do not want to go down that path. That is why I fled Thyferra and will never go back. I am a much stronger person from their teachings, but I have no desire to do the will of evil," Kam said putting his heart and his plans on the line.

He knew that opening up like this was risky, but Kam honestly wanted to be truthful in his endevours. Kam had changed, he felt strong, he felt noble. He felt at home on Othala and wanted someone to share that home with...

***

For an instant there was silence and the assembled Ovkhan seemed to focus their eyes on him. The tautness had reached a new peak and Wallace felt the compulsion. For an instant it looked like he was going to draw.

Tedryn. Khan Thun. The female warrior and the whole Ovkhan squad.

Yet for some obscure reason his mind focused upon another detail - The air of a worried frown upon a young man's face...

This had been the induction. The lacking bit of information that completed the puzzle and allowed a more complex understanding. Suddenly the tension fell from his bearing as he had regained the freedom of decision. 'To thine own self be true.' Sure was it important to respect the Ovkhan's culture but no way would he kill one of his men for 'social pressures' and the fact he had addressed a woman as a lady. There were other ways to deal with the young hothead..

"Thou hast forgotten one little detail, Sire." McGreggor's voice drowned the Ovkhan warriors discontented mutter.

"After thou art possessed by the impertinence of demanding herself as thy prize thou must offer an adequate isorla in case thou losest the contest. After all i have seen thou wouldst not hesitate to offer thyself as her bondsman and i shalt not object..." The Othalan fixed his eyes upon the young knight in a serious expression as he addressed him coolly.

After the slap on the face Tedryn was angered enough not to fear Wallace' blade yet the creeping feeling McGreggor might no longer be interested in his service gave rise to another kind of pain. The ache of a deep wound that had been about to heal. Nevertheless.. the Byssian would not show his distortion. Aejon was his aim - everything else he would deal with lateron.. somehow.

Amused bawling was the answer of some Ovkhan warriors. This new prospect was even more entertaining than the expected fight between the two western knights. "Khan Svelvik Thun" ,McGreggor respectfully addressed the Ovkhan leader, "please accept my apology for this incident. As thou sayest.. our cultures art vastly different.. alas - difficulties art there to be surmounted." Although the Lord's face still bore the same earnest expression his eyes shone with faith and unaffected of the still tensed situation he was now calm. Mayhaps this were more than just words..

"In case this agreement finds thy permission i shalt request whether thou, Sibko Ristar Aejon.." ,he seriously spoke at the warrior, "were willing to accept this challenge under the named conditions."

The fellowship