Drei-5-.odt



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Chapter 14: Interlude 1: Pluribus

Interlude 1: Pluribus

Garry Nu-Chang wore a stylish silver gray tailored suit of Sitaurian brocade with an intricate design of platinum metallic threads. Sitaurian Brocade coming all across the Bridge from the Andromeda galaxy was the latest fashion craze for those who could afford thousand credit suits. Underneath a shirt of olive colored Terran Silk. His shoes came from New York City. Even though he never been to Earth he too wore so called sun glasses, a metal frame held dark lenses of a transparent material before his eyes. Sunglasses usually were a sure trademark for someone from the Sol System. He never really felt the desire to visit Earth and had never really left Pluribus other than per Matter tunnel to visit the pleasure moons circling around the fifth planet of this system, but that did not really count. Everything anyone could possibly want could be found right here. This was where Garry came in, this was his business.

Pluribus, the central planet of the most successful multi culture Trans-galactic society in known history of this spiral galaxy was a place of extremes. Enormous buildings, many billions of beings from all over the Union lived and worked here and unimaginable sums of money in from of Union credits and wares were exchanged every second of every day. True this was no lawless planet like Sin 4 or some of the other planets in Free space and for the most part it was an orderly world. Union Federal Police and Pluribus Law Enforcement had their Head quarters right here to keep it that way, but if you wanted it and had the money it could be found right here. Garry was one of a group of individuals calling themselves Connectors and Garry was one of the best. He tugged at the suits jacket to adjust its already immaculate fit and entered the plush office he maintained on the 345th floor of Soaring Delights, a relative modest sized sky scraper of only 2000 meters near Enroe Park, named after the first Union President, still the rent was astronomical. He remembered how he started in this business twenty years ago with nothing but a Cardboard box set up next to a Junkers Yard in Skid Row Sub level 4. Sullivan Mc Donkin his former partner was as far as he knew still there. He had made it far and he had no plans to stop here. His goal was to have a top suite in Enroe towers, to bad Schwartz Industries did not lease offices in the Needle.

Lillifee his reception girl, he had hired originally just for her looks sat behind her Hover desk sipping a cup of coffee."Good Morning Mister Nu-Chang. "She chirped happily.

Every time he saw he congratulated himself for not opting to get an Apple Syntho I-Assistant. Surely these efficient computronics could do many things and appear in any shape, there was a reassuring feeling to know that these ample breasts squeezed by a skin tight deeply cut copper metal mini dress to a most alluring cleavage were not a holo but quite real. The fact that the blonde girl turned out to be quite competent was an added bonus.

"Good morning Lillifee."

"Vat Gerson is here waiting for you."

Garry who was of Chinese-American-Saresii and Plutonian descent sighed and rolled his eyes he had surgically replaced with golden metallic pupils, not that anyone would see this 40,000 Credit cyber enhancement or his expression since he decided to wear Sun glasses. Vat was the son if his sister. While he was a connector and such things as morals and scruples did rarely influence his judgments, he almost cared about her and agreed to take the young man and introduce him to the business. Besides if he was able and had the skills maybe he could expand a little.

The man in his office was dressed okay for someone starting out; of course he would have to lose that cheap looking cucumber green Gal-Mart suit and get something better if he should keep working for and with him. After all he had a reputation to uphold. Other than that Vat appeared well groomed and the color of his suit was a good match for his reptilian skin. Why his sister chose to get involved with a Shiss was beyond him and their decision to raise an Inbetweener was even less understandable to him.

Since Humans and the reptilian Shiss did were genetically not compatible, they had to go to a Gen Mix facility, get the Federal approval to produce offspring with traits of both species and hope that the product did not turn out to be a Frankenstoner as the botched examples of such trans species mixes were called. On the other hand he actually envied the young man for his slit eyes and rows of sharp teeth as he imitated a human smile. "Good morning Uncle Garry."

"Don't call me Uncle in the office or anywhere during business hours. I am Mr. Nu-Chang for you during that time!"

"Yes Mr. Nu-Chang."

"This has business reasons and if you work out you find out why! Now tell me what do you know about the Connector business and do be frank. Don't mince words. I want to know what you know."

<p lang="en-US">Vat's voice even had the hissing quality of a Shiss as he spoke." Connectors are a group of semi legal usually freelancing professionals, connecting those who seek with those who offer. "

<p lang="en-US">Garry crossed his arms and leaned against his own hover desk," what is the semi legal part all about?"

<p lang="en-US">Vat's face did have human characteristics but it translated no easily readable emotions, another thing Garry liked." This is the part I am not entirely sure about. Why would one need a Connector? If you can't find something all you have to do is use GalNet and you find it and if you have the money you can order it."

<p lang="en-US">Garry smiled."Is that so? You are as green as your suit! Where would you go to get a good decent human flesh steak? Where would you order a live sex slave? How about a shipload of Califerm or some other drugs? Where would you go to watch a Death fight? How about buying a Class 4 weapon or a container full of Battle robots? "

<p lang="en-US">Vat shrugged, at least that was quite human." I don't know but I get the idea. You go to a connector."

<p lang="en-US">"Exactly! A good connector knows an answer to all these questions and for a fee will make the connection. The better you are the more unusual are the requests and of course such requests are associated with higher fees. Technically we are doing nothing wrong. Dealing in information is not illegal and the 4th act of the Declaration of Universal rights," Garry pointed to a document framed behind his desk," prohibits the Government and all its agencies from limiting or deciding what information a citizen might seek or give. The trick to survive in this business is to make sure no one can proof you actually facilitated illegal activities and to make sure you never ever ask your customers three questions. If you can answer me what questions you never ask a customer, I make you a partner right now!"

<p lang="en-US">Vat thought for a moment and said."After hearing your explanation what it is you do its actually quite logical never to ask why a customer wants something; who he is and what he intends to do with it."

<p lang="en-US">"Paint me an Ult; you are a smart son of a Crocodile. You're hired!"

<p lang="en-US">Lillifee came in as she always did instead of using tech as she knew her boss liked to see her legs of course the rest of her body." Mr. Nu-Chang we have a client."

<p lang="en-US">Chang motioned his nephew to remain utmost silent and find a seat in the extra chair by the window. Then nodded to Lillifee, who returned in a moment with a huge human dressed in a fur and leather, the fellow wore heavy boots. He had long hair braided and it was as black as its massive beard. An anachronistic helmet was sitting on his head. The strange dress of his customer was nothing that surprised Garry, not on Pluribus. There was nothing any being could wear to really turn heads or raise eyebrows, but usually his customers dressed a subtle and non descript as possible. With a flick of his hand he brushed over the Privacy Field activator. His office was already shielded but this was an advanced privacy field that would not only prevent visual and audio surveillance, but jam all forms of known communication devices and with its Saresii Psi tech prevented any Psionic snooping as well. "What can I do for you?" Chang said then after the readout inside his sunglasses relayed that no bugs or other means of eaves dropping were active or present and that his guest did not have a hidden police ID chip. This part of his scanning sensors was of course highly illegal.

<p lang="en-US">"I want to hire an assassin. I need the Representative of Nilfeheim killed, how much will that cost?"

<p lang="en-US">Chang immediately knew this was no plant and or spy to trick him into something. This was the hick of some colonial world who wanted for whatever reason the representative of that world dead. He had a whole list of contacts he could make who would be able to do that. However killing a rep was serious and would bring the Union Police into the game and they were quite good at their game." My dear customer, I do not want to know who you are from where you come from or who you want dead. I will explain you what a Connector does and then provide you with a few suggestions solely as general information as how something like that could be accomplished. My fee has nothing to do with whatever service you might decide upon. My fee is solely based on the Information I give you and in that case it will be 100,000 credits." Of course that was ten times as much as he would charge usually but he wanted to see how much of the hick was show and how much was indeed genuine."

<p lang="en-US">The human giant pulled a Credit strip." Do you want it as transfer or in Palladium Chips?"

<p lang="en-US">Garry wished he had the same expression less reptilian face as his new partner and he decided to rectify that with a nice expensive surgical procedure he paid for with part of that money, he pushed his Cred Receiver across the desk. "Union credits will be fine."

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 15: Uncle Hogun

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 13- Uncle Hogun

<p lang="en-US">The shock of being caught had completely cured me of that unnatural desire, at least that what I thought and I concentrated on the training. Time had no real meaning, Training was not getting easier. A Keeper who listened to the name of Richard taught me how to use a sword. He introduced me to the different types and showed me that there was more than the widely used broadsword, even though he appeared no older than perhaps fifty, he too was like the others down here over a millennium old. In an offhand remark he told me that he trained and exercised for almost that long and had fought in clan wars before he became a keeper. His skill with edged weapons had to be unsurpassed merely for that reason. He too was patient with my feeble attempts but his approach was more like a Neo Viking would teach. He was stern and demanding, pushed me and did not mind using the hard wooden training sword to teach me in a painful way when I failed to follow his instructions, but I enjoyed every minute of it and could not wait for the morning to arrive.

<p lang="en-US">One morning however instead of him or Siigfrieda, the Ancient one called me to get up and asked me to follow him. Through one of the dark corridors we reached a dead end, but after he operated a hidden lever part of the rock wall swung open and after he motioned me to follow we stood outside on the very landing I had met him first and I learned that he did not appear there by magic or other supernatural means. The wind felt much colder than I remembered but then I had spent quite a while now beneath the mountain in the warm caves. He said. "Eric, your Grandfather will be here tomorrow to pick you up and take you back to Ragnarsson-Rock, back to school and back to your normal life."

<p lang="en-US">"I gave you my word Ancient One. I will not speak of what I have learned. "

<p lang="en-US">"I have no doubt you keep your word. You are, as I said before indeed much like your grandfather. I wanted to talk to you about your secret. I know you are suppressing it and maybe you can but I want you to be careful Nilfeheim is unforgiving and lacks any compassion and understanding when it comes to these things."

<p lang="en-US">I nodded.

<p lang="en-US">"I also wanted to wish you well and find and achieve what you really want. Try not to see everything in Nilfeheim Neo Viking absolutes, not everything that is not white is necessarily black. I have no powers or abilities to predict the future, Eric. But if you live as long as I have you will see that there are patterns and certain chains of events usually lead to the same outcome. "

<p lang="en-US">I was not sure what he wanted to say but I nodded."Can I come back next Summer Break?"

<p lang="en-US">"I made arrangements for your further education for that time and old friend of mine will find you then and show you a few things, but you can always come here. Only I won't be here then!"

<p lang="en-US">"You said you can't predict the future, Ancient One. Don't predict your own end. They do care about you and I do too."

<p lang="en-US">"I am glad you found some room in that revengeful heart for another old man, but I did not predict my won end. I decided I take your advice and leave Nilfeheim for a bit. I think I want to see how far humankind has developed since I left Earth and I might even apply for citizenship."

<p lang="en-US">That did surprise me and he laughed." I am retired I should be able to travel a little. I have seen everything there is to see on Nilfeheim."

<p lang="en-US">"How come you do know Midril?"

<p lang="en-US">"I travel the islands very frequently in the guise of an old Seer and Arguer. It is the common folks who greet me warmly .while I say some wise things they tell me many things about their clans and what happens in the world."

<p lang="en-US">I said farewell to all the Keepers below and was once more in the actual keep. The first Keeper handed me a rolled document and said."This document proofs that you performed all duties well and to our satisfaction. With it you may in years to come make your bid to the Circle of elders should you choose to do so."

<p lang="en-US">"I doubt I will look at them the same way as I have before. To become an Elder was never a wish or desire of mine even before I came here. "

<p lang="en-US">"Your grandfather send message that he is to pick you up today as he must return to Pluribus. You know the stairs well and it takes as long to get down."

<p lang="en-US">He wished me well and then I left the Halls of Hasvik and made my way down the steep stairs. When I reached the landing I looked towards the rock wall where I knew was the secret door and waved not knowing if the Ancient one could see or hear me and said." Take care Old man and thank you for everything. "

<p lang="en-US">I was already on my way down the next flight when he appeared on top of the landing waved and yelled. "You're welcome Eric."

<p lang="en-US">The weather had not changed from when I came here. The same gray sky and the same cold win. Then I could make out a black spot and as I descended the spot grew into the black Volvo flyer and next to it stood Grandfather, as if he had been there the whole time. I made it down the last steps and ran over the hard packed snow atop the ice, stopped at arm's length before him. The wind tugged at his beard and hair." Do you leave the Halls with Honor?" Was the first thing he said.

<p lang="en-US">I held out the rolled paper and he took it opened it and after reading whatever was there he said." The Keepers have bestowed great praise upon you and made you an honorary Keeper of Hasvik with the right to wear the garments. He knelt down and then threw his arms around me." My heart if filled with pride. You have done well!"

<p lang="en-US">I was happy enough to see him, but I already missed the sheltered and fearless environment of the caves below the Halls. I would certainly miss the Ancient one. He was as dignified and honorable as my grandfather, but despite his mindboggling life span and all the knowledge and wisdom he was much more approachable and somewhat more human. Perhaps the prospect to return to the burg had dampened my mood more than anything else. I followed Grandfather in to the flyer, where he took off his coat, threw it over a seat." You kept your promise and I shall keep mine Eric. One day you inherit all that is Ragnarsson but to day you will receive my most prized possession." He unbuckled his belt with sword and scabbard.

<p lang="en-US">"Grandfather you bestow me with such a gift of honor, more than the sword I treasure your gesture and the meaning but I shall decline this gift for now. It is so much part of what everyone associates with you. I would not be allowed to wear this sword; it would gather dust until I was old enough. It is Mördaren and it is meant to be worn and I will wear from the day onward you can no longer raise it."

<p lang="en-US">He blinked and there was a tear in my grandfather's eye." You are fourteen years of age but you speak with wisdom and authority. "He girded it back on.

<p lang="en-US">I knew what he meant but the heroes in the old books always spoke using words like shall and though and all the sons of Clan Chiefs in school tried to elevate themselves from early on to talk in this antiquated way, Neo Vikings loved so much. I just didn't want that sword. Father would prohibit me to wear it or take it. I did not want him to put his hands on it.

<p lang="en-US">Grandfather started the flyer and once the Computronic took over he swiveled around." While you have been at the Halls of Hasvik, I have spent time with the Circle of Elders and to put my affairs in Order, before I have to leave again. Your father has promised to let you return to Fight and Heritage classes. You are also allowed to visit your uncle Hogun after school. He is your godfather after all. "

<p lang="en-US">These were good news after all. All this would mean I had to spend only little time at the burg." Thank you grandfather."

<p lang="en-US">"I must return to Pluribus tomorrow but I will be back for Yuletide and the big Hunt in four month."

<p lang="en-US">"I can't wait till it is January then."

<p lang="en-US">"It will come as a surprise tom you but your father and forty other Clan Chiefs went off planet to attend a Seafood trade convention on Tyson Planet. Of course it helped that Tyson Galactic invited them with all expenses paid."

<p lang="en-US">My chin dropped to my chest." Father went off planet? You had him arrested and he will hang?"

<p lang="en-US">Grandfather shook his head:"No Eric. Tyson's Planet is a privatley owned world and they went there on a private charter. " He sighed. " He is not on Union what I hear he cursed and complained and did not want to go but he also did not want to stay behind while even the Elhir Chief went along. "

<p lang="en-US">I did not try to hide my disapointment but then I said:"Forty Clan Chiefs gone? I wager this is the most peaceful time this planet had since the Stockholm Ark landed."

<p lang="en-US">"I see you learned much from the Keepers and paid attention. I too was amazed by the collection of things they keep in the Hall of Collections from the early days."

<p lang="en-US">Although I heard the Ancient talk about it once during dinner, I never saw that Hall he mentioned, as I did not see much of the Keep above the mountain. I had to be careful now and not to reveal I knew little about the structure on top of the mountain.

<p lang="en-US">He then changed the subject and told me about local politics and a dispute over Free fishers versus Fish Farmers and why the Circle of Elders was upset with a 3rd born son of a little known and young clan living in Oresund, a fisher village located somewhere on the ice of the southern pole. Because that young man received a grant of 100,000 credits to develop his idea of farming flicker crabs in underwater cages.

<p lang="en-US">I feigned interest and asked." Why would they be upset? Is it not the man's own business?"

<p lang="en-US">"Because the young man did not ask his oldest Brother for permission and refused to share the grant with his oldest sibling who is of course the first born. The case is tricky as it involves Federal Money and stipulations so the young man cannot be simply executed for his insolent behavior."

<p lang="en-US">"What are your thoughts on that, Grandfather?"

<p lang="en-US">"I sympathize personally with the entrepreneurial spirit and applaud his patience and skill to get through the Grant process, but he violated the Traditions by going over the will and knowledge of his Clan leader"

<p lang="en-US">Inside I was afraid Grandfather would say that and it showed me that, despite all his Cosmopolitan flair and time off planet, he was still a Neo Viking and Elder first and foremost.

<p lang="en-US">He said." I recommended a solution and it was agreed upon. The Grant has been paid back from the Common Fund and I managed to get the process annulled. The young man will now deal with his Older Brother and Clan chief for whatever internal solution they find."

<p lang="en-US">"In other words his dreams and his chance have been crushed and he was punished for trying to get ahead."

<p lang="en-US">"No Eric, he was punished for not following our laws."

<p lang="en-US">I kept still but my oppinon of my grandfather changed that moment forever. "He went out of his way to punish a man way out of proportion for trying to start his own business and seemed pleased with his own wisdom and yet he let father go off world and did not follow up on his own promisse. Corporate Planets were still within Union Space and they had to adhere to Union Laws. I knew that from Union School. Murder was a capital offense and no Company would or even could object if Union Police came to arrest a murderer. Either grandfather was less honorable when it came to his own family affairs than they said he was or he was simply blind when it came to those matters. I somehow even then understood his reason not to follow up on his own promisse. He did not want any troubles with Tyson and them chosing to take their business somewhere else. I knew that Tyson Glactic was the Ragnarsson's best customer and we sold our Tyrannos, Snappers, Nubhirs and Seaweed products to them. My respect and admiration for my Grandfather was never the same from that day onward. He claimed honor and duty came first even before his love to his daugther and me. It became evident to me that it was business and money that stood before anything!

<p lang="en-US">Things had improved even after Grandfather was gone and father had returned from his trip two weeks later. Father ignored me for the most of the time and that in my opinion was a very good thing, besides I spend the mornings of the weekdays at School like every other kid in the Union and two afternoons every week at fight and heritage class

<p lang="en-US">After school and after fight class I was now allowed go to Uncle Hogun

<p lang="en-US">He operated a Guesthouse with a combined pub and restaurant right at the sea port of Halstaad Fjord he and his wife Aunt Freydis owned. Aunt Freydis also was a midwife. While this was a virtually unknown profession on most other Union worlds as Mr. Walters said, here on Nilfeheim babies came the old fashioned way and no one would even consider Arti-Wombs or anything like that. She was a very kind woman with very little to say. I was not that Uncle Hogun would not allow her to speak, Aunt Freydis had very few interests outside her Midwifing duties and there was simply nothing to ta talk about for more than 2 minutes. She did mother me in a warm simple manner whenever she was there. She took her midwife duties very serious and was always in great demand. That was why she was gone more often than not to help some woman somewhere to deliver.

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun was my Fathers younger brother and traditions and the Old ways were as important to him as any other Neo Viking. He was stronger and bigger than Father and conceivably one of the strongest men of our world. I was almost certain of that as I had never seen anyone taller or bigger than him.

<p lang="en-US">While I was in there I had seen him arm wrestle other men and he always won with ease. Once just a week ago even against two burly warriors at once.

<p lang="en-US">Once a week, the cargo floater from the exchange would deliver barrels of ale, beer and mead along with other supplies. While his helpers and the delivery men would struggle with the big and heavy barrels, he would lift them as if they were empty.

<p lang="en-US">Greifen told me that other Inns often had strong men employed to keep order and to throw out those men who had too much to drink and became rowdy.

<p lang="en-US">He said, that there was no one on all Nilfeheim who could get drunk enough to find the courage to cause real ruckus in Hogun's Inn.

<p lang="en-US">The other day he had thrown out two strong and grown men by grabbing one at the belt and the other by the neck and transporting them outside with the same effortless ease as if he had nothing to slow him down at all. The rowdy men who had just moments ago tried to start a fight were as tame as Nubhir Wolf Puppies and did not try to fight him.

<p lang="en-US">When I arrived after school he would sit down with me at one of the wooden tables, since the Inn was not very busy during that time and help me with my homework assignments. I found out he was much more educated than the let on. He would teach me about our clan's history or instruct me in his backyard how to use our traditional weapons and to throw an axe.

<p lang="en-US">I had returned from the Halls of Hasvik now almost a month ago and we were well into the second year of Shortsummer. The weather was for the most part sunny and warm and we had moved into the back yard.

<p lang="en-US">"Uncle Hogun," I started a question after we had thrown hand axes on a swinging "pour-a-wood" target." Why is it we Neo Vikings use such archaic weapons. I mean we live in the 50th century and I heard you could order an Energy blaster right from GalNet. I know from School Earth had much more advanced weaponry than axes and swords long before even the Galactic Ascent. Would that not make guns and blasters traditional weapons as well?"

<p lang="en-US">He sat down on the wooden bench next to the back door and made a gesture toward the swinging target." You keep throwing and while you do that I will tell you!"

<p lang="en-US">So I went to the target, about ten or twelve meters away and retrieved the small throwing axes, he bellowed with his mighty voice inside the house after one of the servants and ordered himself a tankard of Mead. He motioned me to throw, nodded and smiled as both axes hit true." First of all we are not Neo Vikings. That is a Term the Off- Worlders gave us after we joined the Union."

<p lang="en-US">I wanted to correct him that this was actually done before we joined but I kept silent.

<p lang="en-US">"We are Norse. The word Viking means nothing more than traveler in the old language. They would say we go Viking and that meant to go on a trip. Either to pillage or on a trip to trade wares."

<p lang="en-US">He got his tankard with Mead and took a long draught then wiped his beard, belched in such a manner that I was sure Odin would be jealous, got up kicked my feet a few inches apart. "This is how I told you to stand! It gives you a better position. Throwing an axe into a wooden target is easy. If that target is a man who tries to do the same to you, that's an entire different story. However to be prepared for exactly that, is the reason for all these exercises. Don't be stiff as frozen fur in the Darkwind, relax and be light on your feet. Now go through the movements. Count with your breath to three, and get it into the rhythm of the swinging target and then throw."

<p lang="en-US">"I hit it before!"

<p lang="en-US">"I want you to hit it every time and all the time. No misses, no two out of three. In battle there are no second chances or do-it-over. There are no scores and points given. You hit first and you live, you don't and you're dead. That is the old way, that is Olafson tradition and that is how you will learn it from me!"

<p lang="en-US">Again I threw and the axe smacked with a cracking sound into the wooden plank. He nodded again. "Now I want to see that again, hitting the same spot!"

<p lang="en-US">He took the other axe and a honing stone and began to carefully sharpen the gleaming blade." As you know we originally came from a planet called Earth now better known as Terra. The original settlers that came here and took their lore and culture to this new and harsh world. Life was hard especially when they started out."

<p lang="en-US">I threw the axe again and retrieved it." I know about that part, Leif Erikson gathered his people and all the worshippers of the Aseir as they were not welcome on Earth and came here to live true to the traditions and free of alien influences and all the things that made mankind soft."

<p lang="en-US">He tossed me the honing stone." Sit down and take care of your axe while I answer your original question." He put his axe back in the leather bag and tied the strings." Yes Leif did that, but the nature of this world was more unforgiving and then expected and it has little to give in the long time of Longnight. Especially to a culture that rejects all modern technology. Each clan started to have their own idea just what the traditions should be and who should be allowed to live on the rocks in the Burgs and who had to live on the ice up north. When a Contact ship from Earth came a few clans banded together captured it, and with it started to pillage other colonies around this neighborhood of space. Other clans refused to use this modern technology and called the others traitors to the true spirit of Leif, who had already been long dead by that time."

<p lang="en-US">He basically repeated what I had learned inside Muspelheim

<p lang="en-US">He stopped his narration to take the stone away from me, and then he dipped it in honing oil and gave it back." As you can imagine the other human colonies did not really like to be pillaged, robbed and killed. So they called the Union Navy for help. Battleships came and made a swift end to our planets short space pirate career. They gave us a choice after they destroyed our few pirate boats. Be forever isolated on our planet without any contact to the other worlds or to join the Union and accept Union law and with it Union help. It took the Elders back then very little time to choose the second option and Nilfeheim became a Union world.

<p lang="en-US">However the Elders back then did not speak for all clans as they do today. Other clans who didn't like the idea of using modern technology to go Off-world to pillage and pirate others in the first place also didn't like the idea that Nilfeheim now was a Union world. Not that they had anything against the piracy and pillage part but the way it was done, was against the old traditions, meaning the rejection of machinery and technology of course. Every clan had their own idea how much technology was good. Being on a new world new traditions formed as well and clashed with the old ideas and as you know our kind we are not the best diplomats and arguments usually ended up in fights."

<p lang="en-US">I simply nodded and kept pulling the stone over the edge of the axe in the way he had shown me.

<p lang="en-US">He actually got up and said," Wait here!" then he disappeared inside the house only to reappear with a green metal box and out of it he took a modern weapon. I had never seen one in real but I knew them out of the Virtu Shows in our theatre and of course from school.

<p lang="en-US">He said. "This is an old Directed Energy blaster. Legal on many planets." He aimed the weapon and a bright bolt of light crackled through the air and the heavy wooden target we had used to throw our axes had a huge burning hole in it and the massive rock wall that enclosed the back yard had a large red glowing crater as well. I was quite stunned by the damage the weapon had done. He said." That was not even close to the highest setting. It takes little skill to use one of these. Physical strength and agility make no difference. Can you imagine what would have happened if the Clan wars would have been fought with weapons like these?"

<p lang="en-US">I understood. "I think no one would be around today."

<p lang="en-US">"That is exactly right. The clans that went to space and were now forced to stay on this world had plenty of these and used them to force their will on the other clans. Quite a few of the real old clans completely vanished in that time and new Clans arose that haven't been of the old lineage. It was one of your ancestors I believe someone of the Ragnarsson Clan who went to the Union post and complained.

<p lang="en-US">Long story short it was that Ragnarsson who assembled all Clan leaders to a big meeting and even the most thickheaded chief knew no one would survive another long night with all the fighting and no outside help at all. So the then new Circle of Elders was elected and a long document of rules, The Nilfeheim Laws of Tradition was produced. It tightly regulates how Clan differences should be fought and what is and what is not tradition. First rule in that book is to fight only with the ancient weapons. No guns or blasters are allowed as any distance weapon is to be considered less "honorable" than a hand weapon. According to our custom, all free men are required to own weapons, as well as permitted to carry them at all times. These arms also indicative our social status: The Great Clan, like ours will have a complete ensemble of helmet, shield, chainmail shirt, and sword when we are top assemble on official business and meetings. Those not born to the old families are the Bóndi as you know. All the men of lesser clans' small families will have at least a harpoon, an axe and shield, and everyone even the Low men and those of no clan association carry the Seax, our Skinner Knife."

<p lang="en-US">He glanced in his empty tankard. "I don't think ever talked that much on a single tankard."

<p lang="en-US">"Can I shoot the Blaster? Just once?"

<p lang="en-US">He nodded." Yes but not here. These things are terribly dangerous and we are in the middle of town. Those bolts easily go through walls and we could hurt someone. Tomorrow at the beach I let you lose a few bolts."

<p lang="en-US" style="margin-bottom:0cm;font-style:normal">Chapter 16: The Steiners

<p lang="en-US">Chapter 14 The Steiners

<p lang="en-US">The next day he did as he promised and took me with is rugged freight bed flyer across the island away from town to a deserted dark pebble beach. Most of the rocks where about fist sized but there many much bigger and a few almost house sized. "These are carried by the glaciers from the mountains and after every Longnight they go a little further till they end in the sea." He explained, "Eventually carrying our small mountain range away to the sea."

<p lang="en-US">He took the metal box with him, handed me the Blaster and explained to me how it was used. "This is an old Bofors Saab Directed Energy Bolter Type III, but usually Mercenaries and Freelancers who still use them call it the Bo-Zap III."

<p lang="en-US">From the box he took a oval stick about three fingers wide and one finger thick and slid it into the handle." This is a Charge Pack. It carries enough charge for about 50 standard shots at medium setting." He pressed a small orange glowing button above the handle and a fine sound that started at a low hum to a high pitched whistle, then a small green light came on replacing the orange.

<p lang="en-US">"The weapon is no charged and ready to go. In combat you want to configure the weapons programing and set it to no light option. " He knew quite a bit about Energy weapons for a simple Inn Keeper I thought, but kept listening quietly.

<p lang="en-US">"The programing right now is set to basic and the weapon recognizes everyone, meaning the Biometric sensors are shut off." He handed me the gun now. It was an exciting moment.

<p lang="en-US">He knelt behind me so he was almost on the same level as me and his enormous arms around me he adjusted my hand grip." You hold a this weapon like that, right hand on the grip,index finger on the depressor or trigger like terrans call all controls that release a your thumb on the thumb rest you deactivate the safety like that."

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun said." The weapon is no armed and very dangerous, it is set to Medium and you see the amount of bolts you can fire right in this indicator field. The weapon has no sophisticated targeting options so you line that grove on top of the front barrel up with the sights back here and the target. If everything is in line and you are sure you won't hurt anyone you can depress the trigger."

<p lang="en-US">"What do you want me to shot?"

<p lang="en-US">"Aim at one of those big boulders. Just never shot an energy weapon against a target that is too big for the beam to penetrate all the way. Molten superheated matter can spatter back at you if you're to close and unprotected and it can kill you just as easy.

<p lang="en-US">I pressed the trigger and from my point of view I could not see the beam but I heard the crack and instantly a bright white flash appeared on the front side of the big boulder and a shower of sparks flew in all directions, the flash was immediately gone and there was a bright white glowing crater of in the center of the rock, the size of a Viking shield. Liquid bright glowing magma drooled from the bottom of the hole to the ground.

<p lang="en-US">"See what I mean? Had you stood closer you be showered by liquid rock matter. Energy weapons are quite dangerous as you can see!"

<p lang="en-US">I swallowed. It would take a man with chisel and hammer at least a month to create a hole like that." Yes I can see that!"

<p lang="en-US">He let me loose a few more and the poor boulder finally split in several pieces.

<p lang="en-US">Hogun said." Can you imagine what such weapons would do to us? This is why we use Swords and Axes. We have not learned how to pacify Neo Vikings and curb their easy flaring temper not even today. "

<p lang="en-US">Just then a floater came fastest from the general direction of town. It was a Volvo just like the one we had, but this one was not black like ours but green and yellow and it bore the symbol of a fist holding a sword. Uncle Hogun sighed."The Steiner Clan, another clan who hates the Olafsons thanks in no small part to my dear brother."

<p lang="en-US">A clan chief climbed out the flyer after it had swooped down and landed. Hogun reached for the blaster and switched the safety on.

<p lang="en-US">Two boys of my age stuck their heads out the open door but did not come out. The Clan chief had his fur coat died dark green and wore dark green leather. He openly carried a broad sword. His hair was dark but had silver streaks as was his beard, even though he was smaller than Hogun (so far everyone I knew was) but still a muscled and impressive appearance. He had a disapproving smirk on his face and sneered." I thought I did see Energy weapon flashes as I flew over this spot a few moments ago."

<p lang="en-US">Hogun shrugged."So, what is it to me you have seen or not seen?"

<p lang="en-US">The man's smile was cold but it grew wider." The use of these is prohibited on Nilfeheim by the Ancient Book. The Elders will be very eager to hear about it!"

<p lang="en-US">Hogun shrugged again."So what keeps you from reporting it? By the way you are trespassing!"

<p lang="en-US">"This beach is not associated with the Olafsons."

<p lang="en-US">"I did not say that!"

<p lang="en-US">The other snickered." You are an Olafson, a second born to a Clan of have-nots, trying to gain influence by throwing around Ragnarsson wealth. I had to see who is breaking the traditions and I must say it surprises me not to see you. The gods gave you much size and muscle but neither brain nor skill. Only a coward would train with such an illegal weapon."

<p lang="en-US">Hogun's hands became fists." You are insulting me on my land. If a challenge you want you have it! I shall not stand insults from you or anyone and I accept your challenge!"

<p lang="en-US">"You are a second born. You cannot challenge me and you are far from that Inn and your aprons you call your land. You hide behind an Off-world weapon I do not recognize your challenge, but I be there when the Elders rule your final fate"

<p lang="en-US">It was my cursed Olafson blood that let my anger get the better of me." I am Eric Olafson, first born of Isegrim Olafson, chosen heir of Erik Gustav Ragnarsson. I have slain two Tyranno fins and by the customs I am recognized by the elders as warrior. I shall not stand another word out of your mouth. By calling on the sacred spear of Odin I herby challenge you or any champion you may choose and it shall be your choice of weapon, but cease thy insults towards my honored godfather at once or I will do it for you! Now stand as man or leave with your fins between your legs!"

<p lang="en-US">Hogun stared at me as if I was insane and so did the other man both were totally unprepared for my rant and I had to admit to myself, so was I. partially I was actually quite proud of myself for using the words of a famous poem and altering them to my need on the fly. Most of me however cursed myself silently as I had no idea what consequences my outburst would bring.

<p lang="en-US">Steiner swallowed but then he said." You are an insolent brat but I know of your feat and you are correct that you can challenge me, and it will be answered. I shall not soil my sword with the blood of a wimpy child but my son Ardalf will be the Champion of the Steiners and this challenge will be answered in the proper way. Be at the new thingstead so your defeat and death will be witnessed by the Elders." He then laughed." This day turned out to be quite fortunate for us. The Steiners will gain the Ragnarsson riches and the Olafsons must crawl back to their miniscule rock. Oh and on top I shall gain an inn!"

<p lang="en-US">He turned without any further ado and went to his flyer.

<p lang="en-US">Hogun looked at me without a word even as he had lifted off and was gone. "You are a fool! The greatest fool of all! This beach I have purchased from the money I gained selling the Olafson Burg. It is my land and I indented to build my own Burg here, if by Odin's will I finally get blessed with children of my own. He was wrong, there is no law or tradition that prohibits a man owning one of these on this world and I am fully licensed owning in under federal law. The law only states that you are not allowed to wear on in public or use it in a fight, that's all. I could have easily defeated his accusations before the elders. Now it has changed Eric, your challenge you called upon the spear is most sacred and valid. If his son bests you, we lose all. I lose this land and the Inn and since you are the heir of Ragnarsson. He will gain it all after your Grandfather dies."

<p lang="en-US">I wanted to say something but he then put his heavy hand on my shoulder."I know you hate your father, and you do not look like him but you are without question his son. Frederick Steiner is perhaps only second to your grandfather when it comes to fighting with the sword and his son Ardalf is already fifteen and renowned to be his father's best student. Unlike you Ardalf has killed before."

<p lang="en-US">He sighed deeply and his heavy hand seemed to push me in the ground."Be as it may the challenge has been spoken and I shall stand behind you. We better get going there is actually little time and we cannot be late or we lose before it even begins."

<p lang="en-US">We returned to his flyer and I said." I will bring no shame upon you! I might be the greatest fool you know, but I too know about these laws of ours and you could not even begin to defend you before the Elders. He is a clan chief. The Elders would not even listen to your defense Uncle Hogun and judge in his favor. How can I let this happen?"

<p lang="en-US">"Let us get this over with. I am sure the Elders have informed your father and he will be there as well!"

<p lang="en-US">We had flown to the Inn so both he and I could bathe and dress appropriately. Hogun had silently put final hand on my dress when father suddenly stood in the door. Hogun raised his finger to warn him but father simply looked at me his fist clenched then he out a broadsword on the table, turned and left without even saying a word. Hogun took it and pulled it halfway out. I know you hate all that is Olafson and would prefer Mjörden but not all that is Olafson is bad, Eric. This is Hevnen and means vengeance in the old language and it is in our family for at least as long as Mjörden is with the Ragnarssons. It was made on Earth after the first Circle of Elders had come together, it is made of Ultronit the same metal they still make Battle ship armor out of and has an edge that never needs sharpening and only a few molecules wide. You can split human hairs with it, length wise! Your father is a cruel and evil man but he wants you to fight with this."

<p lang="en-US">"I don't hate all that is Olafson Uncle Hogun. You are Olafson!"

<p lang="en-US">"Only if you ever make it to become Clan Chief and you reinstate me. Not that this will ever happen. Even with Hevnen you most likely will be dead or wounded and nothing will matter after that. I know you are not a bad fighter for your age but your opponent will be beyond you in skill."

<p lang="en-US">"That is a fine way to stand behind me, Uncle Hogun! Talking of my defeat even before it has started."

<p lang="en-US">"I like to dream too Eric, but miracles don't happen. You never really held a real sword before and never used on in anger."

<p lang="en-US">Even though it had been here ever since it was moved from Hasvik so long ago, it was still called the New thingstead. The place was sacred and dedicated to the gods. All clan leaders would meet here twice a year under total exclusion of anyone else to discuss clan politics declare wars, make peace, and make trade and other deals that need to be witnessed by all, take oaths and answer challenges.

<p lang="en-US">It was a large round building of about fifty meters across and perhaps 15 meters to the peak of the roof. It had a yard like center of packed dirt and raised seats all around. The Elders, all 36 would sit in the first row and the Clan chiefs in the second raised row behind them. Twenty Four Elders made up the Outer Circle and 12 the inner Circle. The difference was that the elders of the Inner circle had two votes.

<p lang="en-US">Behind the Thingstead about four or five kilometers was Mount Asgard, like Muspelheim once a Volcano but ceased to be active long before humans ever set foot on this world. Between the large roundhouse made of big rock boulders and roofed with thick layers of dried thick grass stems over a frame work of steel beams ; were the old hill graves of clan chiefs and Elders, honored dead, only the most revered leaders would get a warriors funeral by sending a burning ship sailing to the horizon.

<p lang="en-US">The Thingstead was not just used once a year. Important weddings and funerals were held here, emergency meetings in times of natural disasters. When someone had to be judged that required the Elders presence or when a challenge was issued that needed to be witnessed. I had been here on a school trip when an Elder explained all that to us.

<p lang="en-US">Annar had not returned after the summer break and I learned that Sigvard had won, right here as well. I was told Annar did not die but was declared unfit to be the son of a Clan Chief and sent to a distant relative to the other side of the planet to go to another school as well.

<p lang="en-US">The area before the Roundhouse was filled with floaters of all kind and more kept on coming. Lars Igvarhein was here, as I saw the floater with the Nilfeheim Radio Logo right by the door.

<p lang="en-US">Sure enough he lingered right by the entrance as I followed Uncle Hogun inside and he said loud." And here they are, Nilfeheim's strongest man Hogun Olafson, propreotor of Hogun's Inn and the youngest Tyranno Slayer. Any comments on the Challenge?"

<p lang="en-US">Hogun grunted." This is an ancient and sacred ritual of honor and blood and not the cheap Off-World style entertainment trash that oozes like slime into our society. Be off with your recorders and sensationalism it has no place here!"

<p lang="en-US">His words were obviously transmitted and there was a loud murmur of approval from the assembled and an Elder rose." Son of the Igvarheins you are first born and may remain, but act accordingly and with the dignity this place deserves or you will be judged next."

<p lang="en-US">The Media Host bit his lips and left through the door. Steiner and his son were already here and stood beneath the inner yards walls that separated the dirt floor from the raised bleachers, and underneath the seats of the Inner Circle of the Elders. One seat was empty, where my Grandfather would sit!

<p lang="en-US">It became immediately quiet. I saw father seat beneath the Olafson Seal with his arms crossed and a brooding face. One of the Inner Circle Elders rose and now and it became so quiet one could have heard a little Ice digger run over snow. The Clan lord of the Steiners has requests this extraordinary meeting of the Elders to make serious accusations against Hogun Olafson. We will now hear these accusations and judge on them. After that we will proceed and hear the challenge that has been made by Eric Olafson. The Challenge has been accepted and it will be fought between Eric Olafson the firstborn son of the Olafson clan chief and the first born son of the Steiner Clan Chief."

<p lang="en-US">The Elder motioned towards Frederick Steiner. "Speak thy charges!"

<p lang="en-US">Steiner bowed slightly, in a theatrical looking gesture drew his sword and pointed it at Hogun. "This second Born Hogun Olafson was observed by me to discharge an Off World Energy weapon multiple times into a boulder at Tusen Kippa Beach, the beach located on the most southern part of Nilgensen Clan land. This coward has not only used a forbidden weapon by our sacred laws, but trained to master this coward weapon and used it in public. This second born then insulted me and dared to utter a challenge. A challenge I of course refused and then this brat and unwanted first born of the pitiable clan of Olafson challenged me I accepted and my son shall champion me. I demand that Hogun's possessions and all that was willed to Eric will be Steiner after you sentence the first to death and the second received the same from the hands of my son"

<p lang="en-US">What happened then surprised me and I realized how right he was to call me a fool.

<p lang="en-US">The speaker of the Elders nodded."Your accusations have been noted as have your demands. "He then extended his hand to someone I could not see as it was behind me."Clan chief of the Nilgensen Clan you signaled to speak."

<p lang="en-US">"Indeed Elder Holger. I must correct the Frederick Steiner as Tusen Kippa Beach was rightfully purchased by Hogun Olafson of the Ragnarsson Clan. It is his private property."

<p lang="en-US">Steiner's face fell.

<p lang="en-US">Another Elder stepped forward and handed Steiner a book. "Here is my copy of the sacred laws of tradition, Clan chief of the Steiners. Be so kind, find and read the passage of law that forbids the ownership of such a weapon or its use on private land. You accused a man to have broken this law, so you must know this book well!"

<p lang="en-US">Steiner took the book but did not open it."Old man, I am not as versed as you, but everyone knows it is forbidden."

<p lang="en-US">"Then everyone does not include us Clan chief Steiner. The laws concerning the use of Off World weapons, energy and projectile weapons is not hidden somewhere in the middle but it is the very first set of rules. The first rule the first Circle of Elders agreed upon, ratified by all Clan chiefs then present says that no one shall carry such weapons in public or use it in any way to threaten, wound or kill another person. Energy and Projectile casting weapons are banned from all forms of combat, be it personal or between clans. Was Hogun Olafson on public land? "

<p lang="en-US">Steiner said nothing

<p lang="en-US">"Since you do not speak to answer, the sale of Tusen Kippa Beach was done by four Elders to witness it present. It is therefore Hogun Olafson private property."

<p lang="en-US">The Speaker of the Elders asked."When you summoned us, we asked you if he discharged the weapon to hurt or kill, or in a fight of any kind? What did you tell us?"

<p lang="en-US">Steiner pressed his lips together, but then he spoke." There was no one else there but his nephew."

<p lang="en-US">The Elder spoke to me for the first time:"Eric Olafson, Son of Isegrim, did you get hurt by your uncle? Did you fight?"

<p lang="en-US">"Your honor, my Uncle explained to me why we Neo Vikings do not use energy weapons and demonstrated their danger, so I understand that is why we went there and that is what he did."

<p lang="en-US">"I see Isegrim Olafson raised his firstborn well. He is the first among that entire spoke that remembers how we are to be addressed." He then pointed to Isegrim." The Clan chief of the Olafsons has banished Hogun from the Clan of Olafson and was accepted into the Clan of the Ragnarssons by Erik Gustav and raised to the table of leaders in that old clan. He therefore is no longer a second born but Lord of his own family and was granted the right by our laws and his Clan Leader to start his own clan, his request for seal, new name and acceptance is still reviewed by the Elders as we speak but nothing speaks against it."

<p lang="en-US">Steiner said weakly." He still possesses an illegal military grade weapon by Union laws!"

<p lang="en-US">The Elder now thundered."This is Nilfeheim we do not speak of Off-world laws, especially not here! Go make your accusation with them, but I advise you against it."

<p lang="en-US">Steiner fell silent and I could clearly see his rage and anger as well as his disappointment. "I am still Clan Leader and the Challenge spoken by Eric was accepted and my son will triumph."

<p lang="en-US">The Elder nodded." This is indeed so. This is why we agreed to follow through and your demands against Eric Olafsons inheritance are still valid, but since you choose a champion may he win or lose will be as if you fought the challenge yourself. That is the nature of a champion."

<p lang="en-US">Steiner nodded."I will not accept any other condition of victory than death. The death of Eric Olafson."

<p lang="en-US">"You will accept what we decide." Again he turned to me." Speak the challenge as you have said it now before all to witness. "

<p lang="en-US">I repeated word for word what I had said, not feeling proud of it anymore. All of it could have ended now without my interference at all.

<p lang="en-US">There was a low murmur going through the ranks of the assembled and the Elder said." Swords have been chosen, the Challenger and the Champion are present. Only they shall remain in the circle all others will leave."

<p lang="en-US">Hogun handed me a shield, adjusted the arm straps firmly and said." I will be proud of you, no matter what! Now show them that courage can best skill even if it would be a miracle!"

<p lang="en-US">Ardalf was at least two head taller than me and thus had longer arms and reach. He too carried a round shield with the Steiner fist and before I could think another thought he attacked fired on by his father's voice. At first I was afraid but then I heard Richards instructions and compared to the old sword fighting Keeper, Ardalf was nothing more than a childish amateur and while I could not claim to be much different using the same measuring standard. Ardalf's style was very straight forward and was neither very refined nor did he show real talent. Hack slash thrust with the shield in slight variations, nothing more. According to Sigfrida even the most masterful fighter could succumb to a novice if he was over confident and forgot to concentrate. I heeded her advice as much as I could but I easily parried Ardalf's attacks and paid little attention to the constant flow of insults either he or his father spat. Hevnen felt like an extension of my arm and its sharp edge gouged deep cuts in Ardalf's shield, after a while I could not say for how long Ardalf did no longer mock or insult me but said nothing anymore. It was very quiet except for Frederick Steiner. But I heard someone yell:" that Olafson boy is just playing with Steiner!"

<p lang="en-US">Someone else yelled." Finish him off Eric."

<p lang="en-US">That is when I realized just in how much trouble I was. I had many chances already to end it, but that meant I had to wound or kill that boy! My own cockiness and unthinking action brought me in this situation. This time it was not father who had anything to do with it. This time it was all mine, before I could even think what to do, my body reacted honed by Richards and Siegfrieda's training. Ardalf stepped inside my reach; I brushed his sword arm aside with my shield and plunged Hevnen deep into his chest. This was no wooden training sword that left hurtful bruised or a bleeding scratch. The razor sharp battle ship grade Ultronit slipped with barley more resistance than a hot knife into butter through Ardalf's chest, ribcage and whatever lay behind and only stopped as the cross guard hit his chest, His eyes widened with an expression of utter surprise and his mouth opened to say something but no sound came from between his lips. He dropped his sword then lowered his eyes to stare at my hand holding Hevnen. Ardalf made a stumbling step. The sharp double edged sword sliding upwards with a sound as if wet fabric tore apart, making his wound even worse. A gush of blood sprayed over my hand and arm. It was so warm and I could clearly smell its sickening sweet odor. I retracted it and stepped back and he sank to his knees and then slammed head first into the hard dirt floor. His arms twitching and then he lay still, blood slowly spreading.

<p lang="en-US">It was utterly silent. I was fully aware what I had just done but unaware to process it yet. The first thing really took notice off other than Ardalf's silent form was my father rising in the bleachers. "My son bested the champion of the Steiner Clan."

<p lang="en-US">This broke the silence and all around me was a din of voices. Taking excited and while I could not make out any individual voice or word. Whenever someone said Eric heard that.

<p lang="en-US">The speaker of the elders rose and once more it became quiet." The Challenge has been made and accepted and was concluded before the witness of all. Eric Olafson Son of Isegrim Olafson has and is by our laws and customs now the rightful owner of all that was Steiner. A clan now ceases to exist. So let it be recorded and so let it be done."

<p lang="en-US">Uncle Hogun appeared next to me." By Odin's blind eye, where did you learn to fight like that? I take it back you were no fool."

<p lang="en-US">"Yes Uncle Hogun I was. I killed Ardalf his life is on my consciousness, had I kept my mouth shut at the beach he would still be alive."

<p lang="en-US">"True that, but I would be dead Eric."

<p lang="en-US">I stared at him.

<p lang="en-US">"Without your challenge I would had to face Steiner and I could not have hoped to defeat him with swords. I am saying that not lightly Eric but you basically saved my life."

<p lang="en-US">Now father came and his face was as brooding and dark as ever." What do you want to do with the Steiner clan?"

<p lang="en-US">Hogun smirked."We are still in before the Elders, Eric and they decreed all the belongings and families to you. The Steiners weren't exactly the poorest clan."

<p lang="en-US">"Whatever is between us father is family business. It is not to be discussed in public. You don't like it and I hate you but the fact remains I am your son and what I gained tonight is Olafson."

<p lang="en-US">His steel eyes rested on me then he turned to the Elders."It has been declared what was Steiner is now Olafson. I herby call the Elders to witness the transfer and merging."

<p lang="en-US">He stomped away and as my eyes followed him I saw Frederick Steiner kneeling by his dead son, no one paid attention to him or the dead boy and I felt rotten, despite my uncle's declaration. I had to find a secluded place fast. I was about to throw up.