"I have retold this story to the council of Masters but they have refused to listen." Thalleous complained. "They even insisted Hawken was just on an expedition, still alive, and not killed by the Voltaris."
"And why would they listen?" Osivian sounded exasperated, but tried to remain reasonable. "You have spoken about the Voltaris and their return for the last hundred years. Without evidence, your words can only fall on deaf ears."
"I understand, which is why I am not here to raise an army." Thalleous sighed. It was exactly this kind of blessed ignorance that led the clans into battle all those years ago. "If I cannot convince them, all I can do is prepare."
Senn leaned in closer. This might be the start of his adventures, of his and Ria's adventures!
"Tap!" He tripped over a small pebble. The voices inside stopped speaking.
"Someone is listening." Observed Thalleous. Senn knew he had make a mistake, and hurried away. Before he could take three steps, Thalleous materialized in front of him. The golden circles around him were just dimming.
"Thalleous!" Senn was caught in the act. "Good ev…"
"Senn? This is the second time today you've disobeyed me." Osivian stormed out of the hall. "How much did you overhear?" He demanded.
Senn heard the whole tale, but he didn't think he was supposed to. "Nothing." He lied. "I was just passing by…" His voice trailed off, but it was too late.
"You were supposed to stay in your room!Q" Osivian exploded. "I believe a stricter punishment is in order."
Thalleous placed a hand on Osivian's shoulder. "That will not be necessary, Osivian." He said firmly. "I will take him with me on my journey, and discipline him myself." He winked at Senn.
Senn didn't know whether to be happy or afraid. On the one hand, he will be finally getting out of this village! On the other, Osivian looked like he was ready to murder.
"Hmph." Osivian seemed to concede. "I expect an improvement in your attitude when you return, Senn." He put his hands on his waist and motioned towards Thalleous. "Take him back to his room, and make sure he gets there this time." He turned around and strode to his quarters.
Thalleous walked Senn back to his room. As soon as Osivian was out of earshot, Senn burst out: "I'm really going to travel with you?" He pranced about the path. "How far are we going? What should I bring? Do I need a sword?" At the door, he deflated. "Ria would have wanted to come…" It was all they had talked about. All the time they spent together, all their sparring matches, all their life, they prepared for this, and now, they just couldn't do it.
"Perhaps another time." Thalleous comforted. "Now get some sleep, for we have a long journey ahead of us. Ardonia is a large world, and full of surprises." Thalleous gently closed the door and left Senn to wonder in his bed.