fine inscription covering every inch of the pendant’s surface.
‘This is Theis of Tyl. ’ When no one spoke, Tahon introduced the man to the brothers. ‘He is a priest of Vathra and is accompanying us on our... hmmm... expedition, though he finds the sea hard to bear.’ The priest tried to look serious, but at the mention of Ceet he blushed and lowered his gaze slightly. The beastman also introduced Einar, Kari and Leif. When he had finished, he glanced on either side of the table and hissed softly through his teeth.
‘Let's get down to business.’ Father looked away from the legionaries and turned his gaze to the legate. ‘Because looking at them puts me off my food.’ He added, pointing at the battered men. ‘They have broken the law on our soil. They laid a hand on my son. They must be held to account for this.’ The three short sentences spoken by Olaf sent a shiver down one’s spine.
‘We understand and respect your law,’ the legate began calmly. ‘However, we wish to invoke the Deu’cesum to which the accused are entitled. The priest present here…’ The legion commander was just about to point to the clergyman sitting at the table and presumably ask him to perform all the required rituals, but he was interrupted by a heavy thud on the tabletop.
‘That is your right,’ said the father through gritted teeth. ‘I’d wager the druids have already begun their preparations.’ That was something the Xuindonians hadn’t foreseen. The jarl rose from his seat, and his family followed suit. ‘Let’s not waste any time; let’s go.’ Without waiting for the legate’s reaction, he headed for the exit. The taken-aback imperial officials did not know what was happening, but when the warriors pushed the accused towards the exit, they quickly followed them.
Einar and Surt were the last to leave the dining hall. Tahon was waiting for them in the corridor. The redhead gave Ceet a once-over and stepped between him and the younger brother. The beastman chuckled.
‘They look after you rather... hmmm... well,’ Tahon muttered,
