Drei-6-.odt



<--- Drei-5-.odt  --- Drei-7-.odt --->

Chapter 17: Interlude 2: Harkun

Interlude 2 - Harkun

Harkun felt like a fish out of water. This planet was insane! He longed to be back on Nilfeheim and luckily that is where he would be headed in a few days. But before he could board the Space Bus for the long journey back he had to complete his Lords instructions.

He stood at the window of his Portel room and stared outside. The height alone made him dizzy. He could barely make out the ground and yet the Holliday Inn at Spaceport 14 of Pluribus Unum was not a very tall building by the standards of this world. The entire population of Nilfeheim would have had no problem booking rooms at this Port Hotel or Portel as it was called, and there would still be room for plenty of other guests. A Hotel that could cater to one and a half million guests at once was something he could not grasp and process in his mind. The staff of beings, and robots was certainly a sizeable army by itself. Yet one of the porters laughed and told him that this was by far not the biggest hotel and that they had a quiet week with only 950,000 bookings! He found it amazing that every staff member greeted him by name. He had trouble finding his room even after they explained to him how easy it is to follow a direction bot; one could be summoned simply by speaking into the air.

It all started after Erik Gustav Ragnarsson, curse that name showed up at the Burg and made a fool out of Isegrim. His master pondered for many days how to get rid of that meddling tiresome Old man. Then as if Loki himself had its hands on the wheel of fate. The representative of a Mega Corporation arrived on Nilfeheim, seeking exclusive contracts to market the seafood products of Nilfeheim. He wined and dined the leading patriarchs and invited them all to a Seafood Exhibition and Conference on their Corporate World. At first Isegrim was of course against leaving Nilfeheim. It was not traditional to fly in space ships, even though the Elders themselves guaranteed him that there was nothing in the Ancient Book of Traditions that specifically prohibited travel and that the restrictions in it had only meaning on the planet not away from it.

It was Gretel his wife however who secretly watched GalNet Shows in her chambers with Isegrim's knowledge who came up with this plan, he was now executing.

Isegrim forced to whip his own wife before witnesses after she was caught spying on men's business would have loved to do the dirty deed herself. Not that Isegrim even broke her skin with his whip. Harkun had seen him flail men to death with it and almost cut them in half.

The man servant was very proud of his Lord and master. He served him without question and all the devotion a good servant was to show in return Harkun was the undisputed king over all staff, both Olafson and Ragnarsson, at least while the Old man was away on Pluribus.

On Harkun's word alone Isegrim would dismiss, hire, whip and kill any servant, workman or Low man and Harkun admitted to himself he liked that kind of power. He took any woman in the staff and the Low families he liked and did whatever he wanted with her. If she would tell who would believe a woman and besides they all knew about his power over life and death. He always got excited when he tied them up, and told them they would die by the hand of the Lord if they did not do as he told. That they often called him the Gray Demon behind his back actually pleased him. Lately he discovered he had a graving for younger girls! He was convinced that Isegrim knew about, but as he was the unquestioning loyal servant he had little to fear.

Gretel had seen in one of her GalNet programs that everything was purchasable on Pluribus, including professionals who would for money kill anyone. She even knew how to get in contact with assassins, by securing the services of a so called Connector.

Harkun did not understand how this exactly worked, but Isegrim was suddenly very eager to leave Nilfeheim, attend the Show but only for a day then travel to Pluribus and talk to a Connector, Gretel found on GalNet.

Harkun did not even know exactly how to operate a GalNet terminal and since it was forbidden technology he didn't want to. Isegrim had to return to Tyson world and then to Nilfeheim but no one would really miss him. So he had to remain on this horrible confusing world. In his pocket detailed written instructions and a loaded Credit strip. Harkun snickered when he thought that they would use the Old Mans own money to kill him. Money he had set aside for Eric's education and allowance, money that this undesired and unwanted child would never see of course.

Harkun hated Eric almost as much as he hated Erik Gustav mostly because his master hated them.

He glanced at his pocket watch; he drew the line when Gretel offered him a PDD. He would not use such things. The Elders said it would destroy a man's brain to use computronics too much and they had to be right!

<p lang="en-US">It was almost time. He carefully checked everything once more, memorized the instructions again and ate the piece of paper to destroy it, as Gretel had instructed him. Then he left the room stepped somewhat awkwardly on the central beige carpet strip in the Corridor and was carried away by the carpet covered slide belt. Not even using their feet was convenient for these weak non Vikings. There were slide belts everywhere.

<p lang="en-US">That he had to use the Inter Hotel Transport Lift was another matter. Even he did not want to use the stairs to descent hundreds of floors to the lobby. That the IHT had transparent cars rushing up and down at the outside of the building was however most disturbing.

<p lang="en-US">"Do you want to remain in the Lift and choose another destination?" A voice asked him. He realized he had arrived at the Lobby level and he still held his eyes closed. Transparent walls were bad enough at these heights, transparent floors were truly disturbing!

<p lang="en-US">"No I do not want to remain in this cursed contraption!" He muttered and stepped into the lobby. He did not hear the Lift system's response as the doors closed.

<p lang="en-US">The lobby was far from the actual ground level he had learned. Past the revolving doors on the far side of these faery tale surroundings of white marble, golden brass and transparent materials was the Taxi and floater landing platform, where he first arrived. He dreaded the fact he had to get out there again.

<p lang="en-US">For a moment he just stood there, trying once more to adjust to the rustle ad rushing of beings and humans all around him. Even though Harkun went like everyone else to Union School, it was long time ago and he deliberately tried to forget as much as he could about this off world garbage. Three insect like beings scurried by. Age old cerebral uploads still provided him with the information. Those were Klack, members of the largest member civilization. Four human women giggled, chattering floated by in flimsy veil like things and nothing else; like a school of colorful but useless Regnbyn Fish. Women dressed like this! Harkun was outraged and thought a man was needed to beat some moral and decency back in those whores! A Robot floated behind the women loaded with shopping bags and boxes. He finally made it to the revolving door, outside was seemingly nothing! The scantily clad women however simply walked out there as if walking right through the air and boarded a black limousine.

<p lang="en-US">The Doorman in his impressive livery also seemingly defied gravity. Harkun knew it was actually a floor of an unbreakable refraction free material and an invisible force field fence acted as barrier to prevent anyone from walking to far, at least that what the door man told him as he arrived here.

<p lang="en-US">Harkun never went up the towers of the Burg because he hated their height and those were made of rock and honest solid Duro-Crete. This platform was only 600 meters above ground according to the doorman and he was assured that not even a herd of raging Nul wearing Ultronit stiletto High heeled pumps could even scratch this material.

<p lang="en-US">Not that he could visualize this colorful analogy. He did not know what Nul looked like and he had no idea what high heeled pumps supposed to be.

<p lang="en-US">The doorman was not the same as the one that greeted him here; this one was quite obviously not human, even though the general shape was right. He had chrome metal like skin and was perhaps a robot addressed him after he finally got enough courage together to step outside. He had his head angled up so he would not even get a glimpse of the chasm below his feet." Do you want me to call you a cab Sir?"

<p lang="en-US">"How do I get to the Matter tunnels to Ripley's Canyon?"

<p lang="en-US">"You can take a cab of course or you simply go to your right take sky bridge eight to Halifax Tower and board the next shooter to MT Main Station."

<p lang="en-US">"Call me a cab!"

<p lang="en-US">"Your sphere is ready, Sir" as the almost instant response.

<p lang="en-US">He had to lower his head somewhat to actually see the bubble like contraption with the open side and immediately felt dizzy as fear constricted his throat. It took willpower to make the four little steps into the Tax and he felt better sitting down. He didn't mind flying in a floater that gave him the illusion of a solid floor.

<p lang="en-US">"Thank you for choosing Pluri-Cab as your transportation provider. To what destination would you like to go?"

<p lang="en-US">"Home!" He sighed.

<p lang="en-US">"There are 177 Million destinations with the term home in the Address on this continent and 536 Trillion entries Union Wide would you be so kind and give additional information or do you want me to choose a random one?"

<p lang="en-US">"Of course I do not want you to get me home! You could not possibly get me to Nilfeheim If I could go home now. You Loki cursed contraption!"

<p lang="en-US">The voice remained very friendly and said:" There are 98 locations with the designation Nilfeheim on this planet and 453 locations Union wide. Please add additional address information, or do you want me to make a random selection?"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun got angry. How could they get anything done on this insane world if they had to argue with mindless machines all day long? He took a deep breath and despite all his devotion to Isegrim and the wonderful outcome his mission would cause he wished the Olafson Clan Leader had chosen someone else for this errand. Of course there was no one else, and sending a woman was out of the question, even though Gretel had offered." I want to send you and your creator to the deepest pits of Hel."

<p lang="en-US">The machine chirped happily. "Your invitation of the manufacturing staff of Sky-Floaters Inc to the nightclub Pits of Hel has been forwarded. Destination recognized. Estimated travel time 89 minutes. On board entertainment and refreshments are included in the fare for trans -continental destinations." The cap was already well on its way before Harkun even had a chance to think and realize what the machine was doing." I want you to get me to the Trans Matter Tunnel terminal of Pluribus and nowhere else!"

<p lang="en-US">"There are 40 Trans Matter Tunnel Stations on this planet. To what station do you want to go?"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun was screaming now." I want you to get me to the nearest Trans Matter Tunnel Station."

<p lang="en-US">"Destination accepted. Do you feel well? Do you want me to contact Emergency Psycho Medical services for you, or do you wish to talk to a counselor?"

<p lang="en-US">"I want nothing from you. Nothing! Do you understand! I want no mindless machines babbling to me everywhere I go. I do not want to argue with a taxi cab to get me to the Cursed Trans Matter Station. I simply want you to get me there!"

<p lang="en-US">Again the machine chirped." New Destination accepted."

<p lang="en-US">The cab swooped down from its lofty altitude and went down these duro-crete and metal canyons dove under sky walks and reached an area sunlight could no longer reach. Light now came from an endless barrage of lit signs, three dimensional projections through which the cab simply passed. More than once he thought a collision was imminent and it turned out it was nothing but a projection. At any time it seemed to him half the planets population was going somewhere. Not that he could even comprehend what 40 Billion inhabitants really meant.

<p lang="en-US">He became a little suspicious, according to the doorman it almost sounded like you could reach the next Tunnel on foot. The very reason Gretel had booked him a room at that Portel because it was supposedly close to a Trans Matter Tunnel. But then he had learned that denizens of this world considered dinner on one of the outer planets of this system a short trip. He hated to ask the machine again but he had an appointment to keep. There was still plenty of time but he had to ask." How much further?"

<p lang="en-US">"At this point the distance to your last selected destination is 7 kilometers and our ETA is 3 minutes."

<p lang="en-US">That was more like it. He noticed that there were much less flyers in the air now and the floating signs had all but disappeared and the advertisement now was fixed to buildings, illuminated by simple elements. The cab sat down on a dark wet Duro Crete surface and it was dark down here like Halstaad Fjord during Longnight, the light came from artificial sources. There was actually little in terms of advertisement, but one Red Glow sign read:" Cursed Trans Matter Station"

<p lang="en-US">He wondered why they would give such a name to a public transportation facility but since he had no clear idea what a TMS was or how one looked like he shrugged and wanted to leave the Cab, the door would not open. "Please deposit 34 Union Credits. A receipt will be issued to your PDD." "The prices here on Pluribus are outrageous as this planet is a stinking cesspool." He complained and said." And I refuse to be the slave to one of these PDD things! I don't have one!" He paid anyway.

<p lang="en-US">"A printed receipt has been issued. Please collect it below the Pay Sensor. With a flimsy paper strip in his hand he left the cab and it hummed away. Only in the back of his mind he wondered why there were almost no floaters and virtually no one on the street. It even smelled differently here, there was a scent like brackish water and the green moss smelled when the harbor washed against the slimy rocks. Maybe there was water close by and a TMS was some sort of harbor. What looked like a woman at first from the distance standing close to the entrance of the TMS was an almost four meter tall male humanoid dressed like a female. He knew it was male because the genitalia was not only exposed but had a pink glowing aura enhancing it with glittering small lights. He greeted him throaty." Hello Stranger. You look lost or are you looking to get lost?"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun barked."Silence you abomination! Filth like you should be raked over glowing tips of Iron for even daring to look at me! No be gone!"

<p lang="en-US">"Either you are very brave bearded one or you are very stupid! I might be a little down on my luck but I am still and Andorian and I can take you apart not breaking a sweat!" The being then laughed." Oh I get it you look for some rough time! I gladly accommodate for fifty credit the hour!"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun decided not to argue anymore and he passed in an even darker place lid by blinking red and blue lights. Beings only identifiable as dark shadows hunkered at a bar and on tables. There was a stage in the middle and a technical contraption with blinking lights and a large black center. Over it a Holo read:" The Cursed Trans Matter Station. Destination Pleasure and dark fantasies guaranteed!"

<p lang="en-US">A bulky being with four arms covered in black leather, much bigger than even Hogun came real close and rumbled with a rock crusher voice." Cover is 15 Credits; a ride with the Machine will be 25 credits. The first drink is on the house."

<p lang="en-US">"What manner of place is this?" He was outraged as someone rubbed his behind with something that felt like a broom stick! He was not a famous warrior or very well known for his fighting abilities, but he was still a Neo Viking and had his fair share of fights and brawls. More instinctive than not he drew the Skinner knife he carried like everyone on Nilfeheim and wanted to turn but the four armed being grabbed him. Harkun stabbed the giant with force but the blade simply careened of the tough skin leaving a small scratch. The knife was snatched from him and someone pulled his pants! The big giant being holding him now on both arms grumbled." We do not like trouble makers or Psych Cases here! We will teach you a little lesson now and let you leave alive. Come back and we won't be so kind again!"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun stumbled upon the dark wet road after they shoved him through the door. His pants ripped around his ankles. He was bleeding from a few small scratched and he had a burning pain in his behind. Some little Physical pain was something he could live with, but the anguish he felt for what they did to him, the shame and the realization he would feel violated like this for the rest of his life and suddenly for a moment he wondered if the Girls at the Burg felt that way. His time piece was gone and so was everything else he had on him. The credit strip he wanted to pay the assassin with was gone, and so was his private one. Luckily they could not use them without his biometrics. He kept close to the wall and did not know how to get back to the Portel from where he could contact Gretel. He heard steps following him and whenever he turned he saw nothing. The burning shame of his violation was so strong he wished someone would actually kill him. Then he saw a massive looking deep blue vehicle hovering slowly over the pavement. A bright search light caught him unexpected and a voice said." Hold it right there Citizen! A human policeman in an armored battle suite and a similar threatening robot approached." Is it not a little early advertising like this?" The Cop asked.

<p lang="en-US">Harkun didn't realize he was crying;" I am Harkun of the Olafson Clan on Nilfeheim. First Man servant of my master."

<p lang="en-US">The Cop nodded with an understanding face." And while you served your master he went a little rough on you is that it? Happens in the best relationships of that kind I guess. Do you want to file charges?"

<p lang="en-US">"No Officer my Master is on Nilfeheim. I am here on Clan business to complete an errand. I left the Hotel to use a Matter Transfer Tunnel and this is where the taxi let me off. I was attacked by a group and robbed of all my possessions." "Did they rape you do you need medical assistance and Psych Support?"

<p lang="en-US">"No, no! I fought them off; no one touched me in that way!" He lied more to himself than tot the cop who had seen it all and then some.

<p lang="en-US">"I cannot make you to give me all the information, but it would help to get your property back. Give them long enough and they hack your Credit strips and your accounts are cleansed out before you can stop it!"

<p lang="en-US">He became pale knowing how much money was on the lack strip. "There in this place!" He pointed to the Cursed TMS.

<p lang="en-US">The cop took him to the Floater." Have a seat in the back, Citizen. This is a very dangerous part of town and usually no place for Tourists from Prim Civ Worlds."

<p lang="en-US">"Nilfeheim is not primitive!" He protested loudly, but did what the police man asked.

<p lang="en-US">The cop raised his armored arms." Whatever you say Citizen, according to your CITI you are from Nilfeheim, Classified as Culture Type 191 P. The P stands for primitive and 191 means that you jokers basically just barely above Stone Age. While I understand your peril and I will assist you but don't raise your voice while I sort things out."

<p lang="en-US">The Robot remained with Harkun while the Policeman stomped into the Establishment. The robot said." Do you wish for medical assistance? I am able to provide first aid and a Med Team can be here right away!"

<p lang="en-US">His shame and embarrassment, the failure of the mission and him feeling homesick and sorry for himself; but most of all the endless barrage of machines talking to him made him react the Viking way and he kicked the machine and screamed." I am sick and tired of machines! I do not want you talk to me. I do not want you to offer me anything. I want you to shut up and leave me be! Now I know why we reject all this on our home world oh I know now!"

<p lang="en-US">The robot nevertheless responded." I am police equipment and will be forced to restrain you if you keep attacking me, to make sure you will not harm yourself. Furthermore you are committing a violation of Law 355 section 12 concerning the attempt to damage autonomous police equipment and I am herby placing you under arrest. You have the right to medical assistance and to call your societies representative." A restriction force field issued from the robot and engulfed Harkun and made it impossible for him to move even a finger.

<p lang="en-US">He had utterly failed. If Erik Gustav would hear that he was here on Pluribus, there would be an investigation. The Ragnarsson Clan chief would learn that he had carried a credit chip issued to a bank account belonging to Eric Olafson. He was certain they had some sort of gadget that would make him talk or divulge his secret mission. An off world assassination attempt would certainly doom not only him but Isegrim and his wife. Not even if every elder would against all odds show mercy, the Union Police would arrest them and hang everyone involved. His mind raced to find a way out.

<p lang="en-US">The human police man came back carrying his knife and other belongings. His face was all business. "Mr. Harkun of the Olafson Clan. I just have seen security footage of you pulling an edged weapon with the clear attempt to harm another Union Citizen on the premises of his establishment. Mr. Grrrhankah had your belongings in safe keeping and said he would not press charges. Now you have the right of course to file charges against Mr. Grrrhankah and we let the night court sort this out. Or you take your belongings put your damn pants back on and go back to your hotel and we all are an experience wiser and each goes back to business."

<p lang="en-US">Harkun nodded hastily."I will not press any charges and leave this planet as soon as I can."

<p lang="en-US">"This is a very wise decision." He wave to the robot."Let the 355 slide partner. He did not cause any damage to you and we leave him with a citation."

<p lang="en-US">The robot deactivated the field and a printout appeared from an opening slot." HQ Computronic calculated the citation fee of 200 credits."

<p lang="en-US">Harkun paid the robot. The cop even called a cab for him.

<p lang="en-US">He returned to the hotel and his room, bathed as long as he could and consulted the hotels Virtu Doc who checked him out and fixed the physical wounds in no time.

<p lang="en-US">He tried it again, this time he was less self absorbed and this time followed the door mans advice who even called him a way finder drone. A small ball shaped thing that floated before him to show the way.

<p lang="en-US">Clenching his teeth he passed across the seemingly hand hold free sky bridge, and the Way-finder drone directed him to a vertical conveyor like lift system and snarled." Exit the Verti- Shooter at level zero and you will not be able to miss the entrance to TMS Main station. I have reached the extend of my permitted operation assistance from the Hotel and wish you a nice day."

<p lang="en-US">The Verti shooter moved fast down the outside of an enormous sky scraper. Everything talked around here and even the Verti Shooter cab." Reaching Zero level in 10 seconds. Trans Matter Station, Multi Shop and Post Office."

<p lang="en-US">This time he was certain he was at the right place. Four huge gates in the façade of a building with hundreds of beings coming in and out like a never ending stream. Above the gate he saw openings and taxi Cab bubbles, commercial and private floaters buzzing in and out without end or break.

<p lang="en-US">He stepped on the slide belt moving in, packed with beings. Some of them holding PDD's before them with activated field screens reading, others chatting with each other or eating food they got from vendors bots that flew back and forth from various restaurants and food stands.

<p lang="en-US">Right before him on the belt was an elderly woman and a matching white haired man wearing big boots and what seemed to be rain coats. He heard her say to the old man:"I am so excited to pass through a Trans Matter Tunnel. Do you think it will hurt?"

<p lang="en-US">A bored looking boy in a black one piece suit with deep purple swirls on the back laughed." You won't even notice it lady. There isn't anything to be excited about! I bet you must be from some Prim Planet on the fringes!"

<p lang="en-US">"We are from Splish-Splash." She said with disappointment in her voice."They have these transmitter tunnels only on the most populated worlds."

<p lang="en-US">The boy laughed again."Splish-Splash eh? Well they had to name your planet something I guess. If you want an exciting ride you feel something I recommend the Super Express Slide way to Continent 4. Moves at 50 miles an hour through a transparent Ocean tunnel"

<p lang="en-US">Harkun paid no longer attention to them as the Slide way ended and he stood in a cavernous hall. He was certain you could fit the Burg complete with the island at least five times in it with room to spare. Someone snarled at him to step out of the way and he observed the incoming people splitting up selecting from 12 smaller slides. Each slide way moved them towards huge hexagon shaped rings to the left of the buildings entrance The inside of the rings were utterly black and the slide belt carried the passengers right into it where they disappeared. Gliders and taxis flew without slowing down into these black fields. As he turned to the right he saw twelve identical rings and beings and gliders appeared in a steady stream.

<p lang="en-US">Above each hexagon floating light signs designating destinations. None of them however read Ripley's Canyon.

<p lang="en-US">A blue robot with the Information I on head torso and back caught his eye and despite the fact he had no desire to talk to yet another machine he had to do it. "Where do I find the Trans Matter Tunnel to Ripley's Canyon?"

<p lang="en-US">"You can take Slide way nine. It will get you to Suburbia Planet and there you take slide way one to Suburbia Moon One. At the TMS station there you can take the canyon tram or a taxi to Ripley's Canyon. Or you board a taxi here that takes you there without the need of switching slides yourself."

<p lang="en-US">He would never ever use a Taxi again if he not absolutely had to. So he stepped on Slide way nine that carried him and many others towards the utter black field. He knew the machine would somehow send him very fast to another planet in the same system, but how this was accomplished without spaceships he did not know. The slide way carried him closer and he could now hear the low hum of something incredibly powerful. It was a sound that seemed to bring his very bones to resonance he could no longer see the octagon metal frame, only the black field were beings simply disappeared. As if the gates of Hel swallowed them. Six beings before him, now five, he felt all his hair standing on end as the hum increased as he moved closer. Now four, three, two...he could see nothing but the black field and then he saw the beings in front of him again moving to the end of the slide belt. He turned and saw the black field behind him. The boy was right he felt absolutely nothing.

<p lang="en-US">Slide belt one was much smaller and so was the Octagon field and only two other humans stepped on it before him. This time he looked at his time piece as he approached the field, suddenly the hands of his analog watch jumped ahead five minutes and as he looked up he had again passed the black field. Five minutes had passed without him experiencing anything. He didn't like this way of traveling at all. It was too unnatural and certainly against the will of the Gods.

<p lang="en-US">A woman approached him. She wore a tight one piece suit of a burgundy color and a wide flowing red mantle sweeping the floor behind her. She wore the mantel open and it revealed large breasts and wide hips. Her face hidden beneath a wide brimmed red hat and a similar colored veil." You are from Nilfeheim?"

<p lang="en-US">He was surprised she knew that but he nodded. Eager to get to the Canyon, he was now almost two hours late, even though he started out with 4 hours to spare this morning." Why do you want to know?"

<p lang="en-US">"Because you are one hour and 49 minutes late. We were supposed to meet at the Chinese Lantern restaurant above Ripley's Canyon."

<p lang="en-US">He blinked." I am to meet and talk to a woman? I am to do business with a female?"

<p lang="en-US">"If I am female or not, if I am Human or not is not what you need to know. I assure you what you see is not my true form and appearance, but even if I was female what has that to do with anything?"

<p lang="en-US">He looked down at her."Women are good for…" He swallowed the rest and said." Indeed it matters not. I have not made that choice I am only here to deliver certain things."

<p lang="en-US">She motioned towards an Arthur's Swine and Dine." This place is as good as any."

<p lang="en-US">Moments later they sat at a table in the automated fast food restaurant.

<p lang="en-US">She began." I understand your contacts want my contacts to do something. "

<p lang="en-US">Hogun folded his thin hands." That is so. That something is described on this." He pushed a data coin across the table and she took it and after a few moments holding it without putting it into a reader she said." I had to download an App to read that ancient thing, I had no idea those are still used. "

<p lang="en-US">He had no reply to that as he was certainly no expert in those things. She also was silent for a about three or four minutes still holding the small disc, then without any apparent effort she crumbled the tough little disc into a metal ball between her fingers."Since the something you want removed is part of an important structure and the untimely removal will cause others to look into the matter. Other we don't want to do that. The fee is 2 Million credits all up front. You will never see or hear from me again and as stipulated on that little disc it will be done on any date we choose after the 25th of this month."

<p lang="en-US">"How do we know you don't just cash in and leave?"

<p lang="en-US">"No guarantees, no refunds no haggling. Take it or leave it."

<p lang="en-US">He took it and handed her the Credit chip.

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 18: Funeral

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 18- Funeral

<p lang="en-US">The image of Ardalf's face as the sword slipped into his body would not leave me and I dreaded going to sleep even more than before. When I finally was so tiered I had to sleep I would dream and see the scene all over. One particular dream was especially disturbing as I saw my mother standing by the dead boy and shaking her head.

<p lang="en-US">Father was busy integrating the Steiner Clan and he left me completely alone, even when I was at the burg and he was there. I spend most of my time at Uncle Hogun's now anyway. In school they treated me now with a different kind of respect and usually made a b line around me. Even Yngve grew distant and did not talk to me as much as he used to and when I asked him he said." They won't admit it, but most of them are afraid of you now. As much as they like to talk tough and appear to be killing Vikings, you have actually done it." Then he added looking away."I however will admit it, Eric. I am afraid. I can't help it. I saw you fight Ardalf on Nilfeheim Radio.

<p lang="en-US">I could not even find words to defend myself. I just wished I could wash that sticky feeling of my hands. No matter how much I washed my hands. I still had this sticky feeling I had when my hands were caked with blood.

<p lang="en-US">"I am leaving Nilfeheim very soon anyway. My father thinks it is better I finish Union School on Helgoland. I have an Uncle there and he invited me. He said it would be less stressful for me there and they do have better facilities and offer advanced classes."

<p lang="en-US">"How soon will that be?"

<p lang="en-US">"I will leave at the fifth of September."

<p lang="en-US">That was less than two weeks.

<p lang="en-US">A friend of Uncle Hogun was now training me three times a week. He was a strange man, named Carl Lindgren who barley spoke a word. He had a thin but very athletic looking body. His grey beard was a sorry looking thin grizzle and he had many scars on his body and one across his face that gave him an especially evil look, but when it came to fighting with an axe he had no equal, so Hogun said and I was almost certain he would even be able to stand against Richard for a little while at least with the sword, only when it came to the spear he grunted once a word of praise as I scored a few times." You either were born with a darn spear in your hand or you had a teacher that is beyond anyone on Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun would sit in the back yard and watch us train. I could concentrate and forget my nagging guilt only when I was diving or when I needed all my wits in a bout with Carl Alhquist. I never heard of a Alhquist Clan and Uncle Hogun told me never to mention that before Carl.

<p lang="en-US">It was a few days before my birthday as we just had finished and I was soaked with sweat and put the Sword on the rack. Carl's body was also glistening as he sat next to Uncle Hogun and received a tankard of ale. My uncle said."Seeing you two go at it is a feast for the eye. Carl wiped his lips and with his gnarly voice said." Maybe another year and that whippersnapper will give me a run for my money. I would love to meet whoever taught him."

<p lang="en-US">Aunt Freydis who never came out in the yard before suddenly appeared in the door and her usual smiling face was replaced by an expression of sorrow and distress and she said breathless." They just said it over the radio. Eric's grandfather died in a flyer accident on Pluribus!"

<p lang="en-US">At first I thought she had misunderstood, but Hogun rushed into the house only to call me moments later.

<p lang="en-US">He had opened the wooden cabinet where he was keeping the large vid screen and his GalNet terminal. Lars Igvarhein sitting behind a desk said." Again these are breaking news. We just received word from the Union Capitol that our Representative Erik Gustav Ragnarsson was killed in a Flyer accident. Details are not yet known only that Union Police is investigating. A picture of grandfather appeared behind the media man and a ticker band repeated the news. Then the screen went dark switched to blue and an official looking logo appeared. A voice said." Incoming Call for Eric Olafson from Union Police headquarters."

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun appeared behind me and put both of his hands on my shoulders and said." Call accepted. Eric Olafson is here."

<p lang="en-US">A dignified looking man in dark blue uniform appeared and he too had a somber face. I was not thinking anything at that moment. My mind was blank or I simply wanted to believe I was just imagining what happened and yet I knew it was all too real. The man spoke."Are you Eric Olafson?"

<p lang="en-US">"Yes." I managed to say.

<p lang="en-US">"I am Captain Bartholomew Swiggard of the Union Police of Pluribus Unum. We found your name as contact in your Grandfather's documents. There is no easy way to say this, but I have the sad duty to inform you that your Grandfather Erik Gustav Ragnarsson, Planetary representative of Nilfeheim lost his life in a tragic flyer accident. As it looks, his flyer was hit by a malfunctioning heavy cargo bot. We are still at the beginning of our investigation and will of course keep you posted, on behalf of the department and myself I would like to express me deep felt condolences."

<p lang="en-US">"My grandfather can't be dead! He…"

<p lang="en-US">"I am sorry, Son, the med crew said he did not suffer. Death was instantaneous."

<p lang="en-US">I tried to straighten myself, "Is there anything I must do? Bring him home?"

<p lang="en-US">"No, son. Despite the fact that he was the representative of a small world, he was well respected and liked and the assembly will arrange everything."

<p lang="en-US">After Grandfather told me about the young businessman and his excuse for not following up on arresting father, I did not think of him as I did before, still he was my grandfather and I knew he had cared for me. His death came as a shock to me.

<p lang="en-US">That Uncle Hogun had guided me to a table and Aunt Freydis put a cup of hot chocolate before me I barley registered. The we sat around the table saying nothing.

<p lang="en-US">One of the first guests walked for that evening and said." I heard what happened. Will you be open tonight?"

<p lang="en-US">Hogun nodded." Yes, the Inn will be open. Erik Gustav would not have wanted it any other way. Business is business he always said."

<p lang="en-US">The Inn slowly filled and those guests who knew that the Ragnarsson Clan Chief was my grandfather came over and offered their condolences to me. I accepted them in the proper and formal ways of our planet as the entire situation slowly sank in. Grandfather was dead. He was the only thing that stood between me and my father's greedy fingers. Now the Ragnarsson Clan was officially dead and the name would be buried along with the shields and flags in the Cave of Extinct clans, a cave in the side of Mount Asgard behind the field of graves. It had been part of the school excursion. I was now the rightful heir but I was by our damned laws an Olafson first. I could not take on the name of Ragnarsson. If I ever had sons and would want to give my second born the same chances as my first born. I could allow him to revive this old name and split my belongings and the clan in half giving each son a fair share and his own name.

<p lang="en-US">That a second born got his fair share on Nilfeheim in this manner was rarer than finding a White Tyranno. I knew of no story or incident were a third or fourth born getting anything. I never liked unfair situations and the more I thought about Nilfeheim laws and customs the more I hated them.

<p lang="en-US">By custom I was the heir but I was not able to do anything about it until I was sixteen. Father would in the meantime in full control as I could not be!

<p lang="en-US">The Elder who acted as the speaker of the Circle approached me and I got up to pay the required respect, but he motioned for me to sit back down. "I am here because the greatest man of this planet died. A man who has done more for this world than we will ever truly know, man who was a personal old friend of mine. I am here to pay my respect to you, his grandson and to make sure his last will is carried out!"

<p lang="en-US">A dark shadow appeared in the door frame, filling it almost completely. I knew this silhouette well. It was that of my father. He entered and stomped towards me and the Elder. Hogun came rushing form behind the bar and as he stomped by tankards started shaking on the heavy table. Father held up his hand. "I am not here to fight or argue with you Brother. I am here because I heard the news and was summoned by the Speaker of the Elders."

<p lang="en-US">Father glared at me and I was certain he was hiding a triumphant smile behind his beard, but his eyes signaled hatred and promise of pain." I see you teach that misbegotten son of mine, that dribble of scum that run down my leg his rightful place. Sitting in the draft room with drunkards and the Low men, the Servants and have-nots."

<p lang="en-US">"He has provided you with the riches of the Steiner clan, brought much honor to the name of Olafson and you are still not satisfied with his performance? You still treat him like an outcast? "The Elder asked with a surprised tone."What must he do to gain your acceptance?"

<p lang="en-US">Father snorted." If he declares before the elders that he steps back from all his rights as first born and thus makes my beloved Lothar heir of all. Then I will consider myself satisfied and will allow him to be raised by this apron wearing Innkeeper."

<p lang="en-US">My old friend Erik has actually predicted you would act this way and it might come to a surprise to you that he had taken measures to protect his grandson and his interests. Here is what the Circle of Elders has me say to you:

<p lang="en-US">"Erik Gustav Ragnarsson is still the clan leader until such time he received a Warriors Funeral and all the honors this world can bestow upon his memory and only after the Sigil and the flag of the Ragnarssons is buried in the Caves of Honored Past he is that no longer! Until then the Elders will decide if Erik Olafsons deed killing two Tyranno Fins and serving the Gods at Hasvik with Honor is to be considered an adult. All Ragnarsson business until then is to be conducted by the man chosen to do that and that is Hogun."

<p lang="en-US">Father's smile vanished and said."Then I shall take steps that make this a mood point. Eric you come now with me to the Burg and the last time you will be seen in public is when you declare your decision to accept Lothar as the first born."

<p lang="en-US">The Elder leaned forward." This is a very personal message from me Isegrim. I know where Harkun was and what he did. Should Eric not return to Union School every day until he reaches his sixteenth year? I will forget that I am an Elder and remember that I am a Union Citizen too."

<p lang="en-US">Father suddenly started sweating! His mouth opened and closed and I wondered just what Harkun did that was so shocking. Father said." I give my word then."

<p lang="en-US">The Elder nodded." I hold you to it!"

<p lang="en-US">Father got up and growled." You may remain with your Godfather for now until I say otherwise!

<p lang="en-US">Then he stomped out.

<p lang="en-US">The Elder then took Hogun to the side and both disappeared in the kitchen. It took at least half an hour before Hogun and the old man returned and Hogun's face showed shock and anger. I clearly saw how he tried to keep himself under control and then returned to take care of his guests.

<p lang="en-US">I was excused from School for two days and for the next two weeks I only had to return to the Burg for the weekend. I did not see anything of father, but Harkun told me that I was to remain in my room or do my chores and not to go near the High Halls. Uncle Hogun did not speak much with me at all and said he was too busy with going over the accounts and the business things grandfather had left behind. Then the body of Grandfather arrived and Uncle Hogun took me with the Flyer not to the Spaceport but to the empty plain outside town and what I saw changed me forever. Before it was only a dream, now my desire to become a Starship Captain lit a fire inside me. A real 3000 meter Union Battleship had landed. It was taller and more massive as any surface mountain on Nilfeheim. A gleaming wedge shaped manmade object, dwarfing Mount Asgard nearby. Every skimmer and floater of Nilfeheim was there and yet they all would have found room in just one of the ship's cargo holds. To my friend Ygral it was the sight of Pluribus that made him realize the true power of the Union. To me it was this ship. Space Marines in their crisp midnight blue Uniforms came marching down a ramp lowered to the ground from the ships bottom side. Uncle Hogun who had brought me right to that ramp and a man in black Uniform, bare of decoration, except for three golden rings on each of his sleeves flanked by the marines stopped before me and saluted with crisp precision moves." I am Captain Horatio Reynolds of the new battleship USS Ragnarsson and I have the great honor and the sad duty to bring home to you Eric Olafson, the remains of your Grandfather Erik Gustaf Ragnarsson. "

<p lang="en-US">He turned on his heels and eight beings not all of them human carried the coffin down the ramp, where it was received by eight Elders, and the old men themselves carried it all the way to the thingstead roundhouse.

<p lang="en-US">The Captain of the ship shook my hand and the gestured to the ship." This Trafalgar Class Battleship was received by the United Stars Navy only a week ago and by a resolution passed in the assembly with 100 percent of the votes it was named to honor your grandfather."

<p lang="en-US">"I thought he was just the representative of this our planet?" I finally managed to say, not able to take my eyes of the ship.

<p lang="en-US">"He was indeed but it does not matter how small the place you come from is, if you conduct yourself with honor and you treat others with respect. Your Grandfather so I was told was also a leading voice in the Trade and Finance committee, well respected for his opinions and his council. The beings that carried his remains off the ship are all from the Assembly and they all respected and liked your Grandfather."

<p lang="en-US">Hogun took me by the shoulder and led me away" You need to be with your grandfather. That is tradition and everyone is watching you know, especially your father. It is expected you stand at least four hours guard at his bier while he lies in state."

<p lang="en-US">The body of my grandfather had been dressed in his traditional Neo Viking clothing and he was holding an axe. The lower part of the body was covered by the Ragnarsson flag. He did not really look like I remembered him. It was more like looking at something artificial.

<p lang="en-US">The Elders were there sitting in their traditional seats in the roundhouse. Grandfather's seat was decorated with another Ragnarsson flag. One of them stepped forward and handed me Grandfathers sword." He had willed this to you while he was alive and now it is proper you receive it and the Circle of Elders has decreed you earned right and honor to wear it at all times. The Elder girded it around my waist. I now saw father sitting in his seat in the rafters leaning back hand to his chin and observing everything. He actually held his whip coiled in his right hand and I felt his eyes on me even when I was not looking

<p lang="en-US">Hogun pointed me at a spot right to the right hand of Grandfather and said." You stand there. Try to remain there as long as possible. In the wee hours you can take a break. I am here too."

<p lang="en-US">To my surprise I saw Greifen and a few of the other Servants and Freeman of the Ragnarsson Clan decked out in their finest and wearing Ragnarsson Black and twenty two Clan chiefs. After I found my spot the Clan chiefs made a line and the first stepped before me." The Lindgren Clan was a stout ally of the Ragnarsson clan and when seals and flags of this noble name are laid in the Caves, let you be assured the Lindgren's will not forget and our oaths shall be renewed with you."

<p lang="en-US">The other clan chiefs said similar vows and each time they turned and looked up where father sat. Greifen who stood to my left said, without really moving his lips." Every time you r father wants to ease things on you and try to somehow make peace with you, his wife spews her poison and makes him do the opposite. He was proud as any father when you slayed the Tyrannos, but when he wanted to celebrate she called him in her chambers and as he came out he was mad at you. The day you gave him the Steiner Clan I heard him say to Harkun how proud he was of your conduct. After he left the bed chamber everything has changed again."

<p lang="en-US">I answered in the same fashion:" There will be no peace between him and me. He has slain my mother and if he is under the spell of a woman to the contrary of all his swagger, it makes no difference to me."

<p lang="en-US">I noticed Harkun sliding behind Father into the benches and whispering in his ear. I wondered what that gray skinned, hook noosed bane of servants had to say to that brooding, dark figure that was my father.

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun said it was okay to go to the bath room and drink water but anything else was deemed improper. During the night they had placed torches on stands around the Bier and the long shadows of those who stood honor guard danced with every flicker of the flames like long black fingers over the silent body of my grandfather. I was surprised to see three Non Humanoids, a Klack Insect, a brown shaggy Garbini that looked like an octopus in a tight fitting fur coat, using four of his tentacles to walk and the being I had seen talking to my grandfather during our Virtual visit. It almost had the appearance of a Fangsnapper, not in size of course but the pelted face certainly had a striking resemblance to these amphibious predators of our world.

<p lang="en-US">Sunday began as they carried him in stages the entire 8 kilometers from the Thingstead to the Sea harbor, ant every stage his bearers would change and another eight would take over. To my hidden surprise I saw the Ancient among the crowds. I recognized him despite his disguise as arguer. The First Keeper and a delegation of the Halls of Hasvik were here on official business invoking the gods and walking right behind the bier. From the battle ship that was dominating the landscape behind us, emerged at least two or three hundred dignitaries as well as several off world media reporters. They did keep a respectful distance though.

<p lang="en-US">The last stage, I was among the last group who would carry grandfather to a waiting wooden dragon boat, manufactured to look like the Viking boats had looked so many millennia ago on Earth. Uncle Hogun all alone took the bier with Grandfather on his shoulder and placed him on board the ship. He was too big and tall to share the burden with others, so it was decreed he would be allowed to be the last. Hogun's strength once more became apparent when he put that heavy board with grandfather on his shoulder and then like someone else would do with an empty plank set it inside the ship. The wind did carry a few of the words spoken by the media men to my ears as they assured their viewers that he was neither robot nor in any other way enhanced.

<p lang="en-US">The Elders and I received torches from the Keepers and I was to toss the first onto the boat, then each of the Elders would do the same and finally some of Grandfathers off world friends. The sail billowed and the boat moved slowly out past the harbor rocks. Suddenly a bright light appeared in the sky, expanded for a brief moment brighter than the sun and then deafening thunder rolled over us all. Hogun said." The Battle ship is firing salute it will happen two times more! And just as he said it; the second and shortly after the third boom. I saw the frightened and impressed faces of the Vikings present. This battleship was so much more than the virtual Starblazer of Yngve's Virtus. Someone behind me said as if reading my thoughts." It would take this ship less than five minutes to completely destroy Nilfeheim and vaporize every living thing." I turned a little and saw the Ancient standing behind me, holding his walking staff. He managed to hit me with it, without anyone noticing. "Pay attention to your grandfather's funeral and not to some old man you don't know"

<p lang="en-US">The boat was now burning brightly and everyone watched silently until it had burned down to the waterline and the rest disappeared below the waves.

<p lang="en-US">Now dignitaries started to shake hands with each other and talked. The Captain of the battleship was accompanied by two of his officers and they were neither as massive nor as strong looking but they moved differently than the rest. They had an unmistakable flair of authority and an aura of instant readiness and confidence.

<p lang="en-US">Our planet rarely if ever had foreign visitors and no one I knew had ever seen Non Humanoid visitors, but the battleship had brought hundreds of them and everyone was in awe. The Speaker of the Eldest situated himself next to the Major of Halstaad Fjord, also an Elder and together they climbed upon a crate. He began to speak first I could not hear but one of the Media people projected a huge version of them in the air before us and their voices were amplified. The Elders first blinked at that off word "magic" and said:" Nilfeheim is rather isolated from galactic affairs and we do not get many visitors. It is tradition that we celebrate the Arrival of such an honored warrior at Odin's banquet table in Valhalla with a feast of our own. We drink and eat and thus honor the departed. We are an inward looking people but no one will be able to accuse us of not celebrating and honoring guests and thus on behalf of Nilfeheim I invite all present from Off world or Nilfeheim to the festivities that will begin right here very shortly!"

<p lang="en-US">A small army of men opened Barrels, set up tables and benches, fires were lit and huge grill pits set up, Uncle Hogun appeared with his big apron and supervised the spitting and placing of snapper and Tyranno roasts over the pits. The tables and benches were set up right at the shore in big circle. Women in traditional dresses and Aprons served ale, beer, mead and the rare and expensive Seaweed berry Wine mostly to the female guests. The air was soon filled with a merry din of voices and tankards raised. The Air pregnant with the delicious mouthwatering scents wafting from the grills. Many Clan leaders were present and each stood and announced the specialty of his house and women and servants would go around carrying enormous platters and each time the foreign media folks would record it with their flying equipment and comment on it. Normally I would have to sit with the youth and was not allowed at the adults table but not this time. I was sitting in the middle of Eldest and Keepers. To my delight the white bearded First Keeper was right next to me. I saw the Ancient One in his guise to the side by the stack of Ale and beer barrels talking animated to the Viking filling tankard after tankard, holding one of the big ale tankards despite his thin arms with ease.

<p lang="en-US">The Clan Leader of the Osebergs came over and smashed his fist on the table before me." The Osebergs and the Ragnarssons were bitter enemies for ages. Let these grievances be buried among the shields and flags. My house shall remember thy Grandfather as the most honored fiend and enemy we ever had and you being of his blood and already making a name for yourself shall be welcome and celebrated in the Halls of Oseberg! What do you say Eric Olafson?"

<p lang="en-US">I stood as it was customary when addressed by an Adult warrior and clan chief." You bestow honor beyond my years to comprehend upon me. While I cannot make any such vows for the Clan of Olafson, as this is the realm of my father alone, and the with grandfather's passing his House will be gone, I vow that if my clan allows friendship my arm will be raised against the enemies of Oseberg and raised to hail every Oseberg. Should my clan decree you the enemy I shall honor you and no foul world shall besmirch your heritage and name. If blood is taken it will be honored, if blood is given it will be shed to the glory of a valued enemy."

<p lang="en-US">The Oseberg clan chief raised his mug towards my father who did not sit far away." Blessed is the seed of thy loin. Pride shall fill your chest. He speaks with the wisdom of his parted Grandfather and with the strength of a real Olafson!"

<p lang="en-US">Some of the Elders nodded pleased but fathers face remained unreadable.

<p lang="en-US">The First Keeper stroked his white beard and said silently." It is a pity how much they have forgotten the old poems and a surprise and testament to you how well you change them to your needs. Using the speech of Siegfried to Hagen was a bit bold! Yet no one noticed!"

<p lang="en-US">I smirked" I am not even fifteen and I find myself in those adult situations with Clan chiefs and funerals and Dignified Keepers of the Halls of Hasvik, what else can I do but using he old stories and words."

<p lang="en-US">Some other Elder felt compelled to a speech: "A toast to Erik Gustaf Ragnarsson who has returned home and now sits with Thor and the Gods. Let us do the same and celebrate his journey and remember his life. We are an inward looking people and isolate ourselves as much as we can from the rest of the Union, but we know we would not be here today if it wasn't for the Union. We do business with them and their Credits are welcome. Erik Gustaf was both! A stalwart defender and guardian of the traditions we hold so sacred and at the same time he looked outward and worked on our behalf as representative. I see many faces here that are not Neo Viking, yet all came to pay respect to Erik Gustav., so drink and eat there is plenty."

<p lang="en-US">The festivities continued and during the late afternoon the games began. Warriors would demonstrate their skills with axe, spear and harpoon throwing. For this, the kids and youngsters were allowed to sit at the tables with their parents and see the spectacle close up. It was then when I met Sif for the first time. She was the granddaughter of another Elder and she was the prettiest girl I ever seen, the thin veil she wore before her face did little to hide her beauty and somehow even enhanced it. Not that I had paid much attention to girls before. She had long golden hair; she wore openly held back by two small braids and a circlet of gold that also held the veil. She wore the traditional dress of a noble girl that fit her quite nicely, that her dress was maroon and had golden seams, however caused me much pain. As she noticed me looking she gave me a shy smile. It was then I learned that a girl could smile and show she did even wearing a veil. Now she managed to sit down in a graceful manner and watch the competition. Again she smiled at me for a moment and then actually spoke to me as she said." I love the watching the men compete. One day a warrior will throw his axe to cut my braids."

<p lang="en-US">Her comment was overheard by the Union captain and he said." Is that an actual ritual or just a saying?"

<p lang="en-US">I turned to answer." She will not be allowed to answer you, Sir unless her father has given her permission to speak to a stranger and an adult." Then I said." She was refereeing to our courting ritual at the night of the wedding where the future husband will show his skills by throwing an axe to cut one of the woman's braids which is fastened to a wooden target for this."

<p lang="en-US">"This is not dangerous for the woman?"

<p lang="en-US">I shrugged. "I suppose it can be dangerous, especially if they do that ritual late at night when much beer and meet influences the accuracy of the thrower."

<p lang="en-US">An adult Viking with his massive arms crossed before his chest said. "The son of Isegrim speaks true and there have been cases were the bride was hurt or killed, but that is as dangerous to the thrower as it is to the woman."

<p lang="en-US">"Why would that be dangerous to the one throwing the axe?" The Captain wanted to know.

<p lang="en-US">"Because if he misses the target he gets ridiculed and if he hurts the girl he challenged by the brothers or the father of the bride and such a challenge usually ends up with one of them being dead."

<p lang="en-US">The Union captain simply nodded.

<p lang="en-US">The Viking added. "It rarely happens; even our youngsters learn to use our traditional weapons and can throw axes from early on."

<p lang="en-US">The girl said. I wonder how skilled Eric of the Olafson clan already is."

<p lang="en-US">I had not noticed him being suddenly so close, as I paid attention to the Off-world Captain, my father bellowed right behind me."My son has been challenged by a maid!" The other man obviously the girl's father kept his arms crossed nodded." Indeed Isegrim she has! Other boys and youngsters immediately challenged me. No one however asked to a challenge with the sword and as I stood, resting my hand on Mördaren, partially because it was there and offered a convenient hand rest and partially because deep down I wanted to emulate Grandfather a little. Two youngsters paled visibly.

<p lang="en-US">Father pushed Lothar into the circle and said." My best son will of course compete as well of course!"

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun somehow noticed it all, perhaps he was watching his brother the entire time and abandoned his grills and handed me his very own throwing axes. I was sure he had planned to partake at the skill games, and padded my shoulder. "Forget the others, forget Lothar and Isegrim. All that matters is the target." I glanced towards the girl and her lips barely visible under that translucent veil parted for another smile.

<p lang="en-US">I was not certain if it was Hogun's words or the smile the girl gave me but I never threw better and every throw was true. There were few things Neo Vikings loved more than these challenges, except challenges during festivities with food and drink. The men started chanting, rising mugs every time an axe hit the target. There were nine others who competed with me and every one managed to hit the target. But when the target was moved further away three guys failed much to the disappointment of their fathers and I felt sorry for them. Finally only three of us were left, Lothar, Sven Swenson and me.

<p lang="en-US">Now the target was put into a swinging motion. I glanced just for a fraction to see if father was watching but instead of him I noticed the girl and again she smiled and made a double throw, my axes hit with a resounding thud into the center of the swinging target. Much later I was certain I was showing off for the girl and only afterwards realized that again I risked way too much. I promised myself to curb my own cockiness and doing things before I was thinking them over. I improved but never really learned to do completely follow my own advice, ever.

<p lang="en-US">Sven's axe chipped the rim and Lothar's throw missed completely. My father's angry bellow made me shiver. I knew what would happen to Lothar after we went home. On the other hand he getting his due for once and not I was actually a quite satisfying thought.

<p lang="en-US">One of the Elders said."You trained your sons well; both showed fine skills and your firstborn outshone them all and won!"

<p lang="en-US">"I do not accept failure!" But this time he glared in Lothar's direction.

<p lang="en-US">The girl's father approached me while Father and the Elder were still there and said. "Fine display of skill, young Olafson. I will allow you to court my daughter; you are of good blood and old stock!" Without anything further he clasped my father's underarm and father said." It shall be so. I will make the pact of courtship of my firstborn with the Arnske Clan and your daughter. If they come of age and all is done the proper way they shall be joined!"

<p lang="en-US">"It is a good omen such events end a day like this!" The Arnske Clan Chief said. "I vow she who is my firstborn daughter and much beloved child will be delivered a Virgin and with a Dowry without compare on that day when Eric has passed the ancient Challenge so he may throw his axes and seal this Union between them and our Clans!"

<p lang="en-US">I was completely surprised by that. I never seen her before and did not spend any thought on girls and now he was talking about courting! I knew enough of our customs and traditions to know he was quite serious and now he was talking to my father and they were making pacts! Still stunned by this totally unexpected development it was my father who surprised me even more by pound his big hand on my shoulder and smiling." You did right tonight. Sif is of a very influential and very wealthy family. Her grandfather is the speaker of the Inner Circle. After you become a man you are going to marry her. Her father agreed and the dowry he promised will raise the house of Olafson to be the first clan in might and power"

<p lang="en-US">As stunned as I was. I wondered how Sif felt about this. Knowing well my father saw himself already asking of Nilfeheim and elevated into the Circle of Elders. After all there was the ancient pact, older than even the book of Traditions that if a Clan chief could unite the majority of the old families they would elect a new Leader for all Nilfeheim. Every Clan chief dreamed of it, including my Grandfather to be the one who sat upon the chair of Leif Ericson still kept in the caves under the Halls of Hasvik.

<p lang="en-US">I did not see the Union Captain and noticed that most Off-World guests had left.