"Pardon?"

"De tavern, Vere iss de tavern?"

"It’s over there mister, on the right." the villager pointed to a double story building, the lights inside spilled out through the double doors of the establishment. The rider nudged the horse along. The villager looked quizzically at the man in the saddle. "You forgot to say thank you!"

The rider slowed the horse, turned, frowned at the villager with irritation and then continued towards the tavern. He dismounted, tethered the horse and walked up onto the terrace of the tavern. Three burly men stood up from the bench on the terrace. The men walked over to the open doorway and stopped to intercept him.

"What’s your name outsider?" A man with a scar across his left eye spoke through tobacco-stained teeth. "Yeah, we want the name." The second man brandished a short sword on his belt.

"Ged oud ov my way." the traveller stared at the scarred man.

"Oh yeah or what?" The third man moved forward the stench of alcohol on his breath. The traveller snapped out with his fist and hit the scarred man square on the nose. The man fell to the ground clutching his nose; blood flowed freely onto his hands and floor.

"Ahh! I’b bleedig! I’b bleedig!"

The traveller grasped the second man around the throat and lifted him off the ground; the man grasped at the traveller’s vice-like grip and gurgled. He threw the thug into the street. The thug landed heavily on the gravel. He groaned and tried to get up but fell to the floor again. The traveller turned on the third man and drew a long sword. The thug lunged with his short sword. The traveller parried the sword and trapped it up against the pillar of the veranda. He ran his sword along the edge down to the hilt of the short sword. With his other hand he grabbed the hilt of the short sword and ripped it out of the thug’s hand.

"Weapons are for dose who know how and ven to use dem." The pointed edge prickling the thugs unguarded throat, "Ged oud ov my way or I will make a point of it".

The thug backed off with wide eyes and joined the other two in the street. "You ain’t seen the last of us fella!" and ran down the street. The traveller pushed the swing doors inward. Inside the tavern was sparsely patroned but for the barman and an old salt.

The tavern walls were decorated with coats of arms and weapons. The traveller approached the bar. "I am new in dis town. Dere is a fighter guilt here?" The huge man asked. The barman continued cleaning the mugs but looked up to see the biggest man he had seen in many a year. "We have some of the finest warriors that money can by ah Mr ah... It’s down this road and left up the alley. There is a shield and sword insignia above the door like that one over there." The barkeep pointed to a very large coat of arms that dwarfed the others around it.

"Good, I vant a room for two days, vot price a room?" Taken aback by the briskness of the man the ‘keep readily closed off the deal without further conversation. He gave the new patron a room key and the huge man picked up his belongings, which included a long sword and a two-handed great sword, which had seen much use.

"Strange feller that, huh Delmond?" The old salt sitting at the edge of the bar said to the barkeep.

"Well, his money’s good that’s all I need to know anyway." Delmond drew another ale for the old man.

"I reckon he’s a heard ‘bout the Baroness. Don’t seem to be from here ‘bouts. His accent comes from the south, forest type." He leant over conspiratorially, " I’sa heard some strange tales from them thar forests, they say them warriors have been touched by the War God his self. You ever seen more ‘n one of ‘em in any town together?" he nodded his head slowly, " and you know why? Cause one means he’s travelling and two means they’re lookin’ for a fight. Three means they found one. Yup my ol’ pappy saw em once they took this little village apart. Like demons they were, in the dark of the night. They didn’t stop until all the village wus dead. He must have a real good..." The noise of the traveller coming down the stairs stopped the old salt. The traveller looked at the barman, said, "I’ll be back." and walked out.

He emerged into the dying light of day; his cloak hung heavily around his broad shoulders. A woman carrying a baby quickly moved out of his path into a shop opening to avoid his girth. She looked back at him striding down the street and then turned and hurried on. The traveller turned up a narrow road and pushed open a wide door with a sword and shield insignia drawn above the entrance. A young man in light armour stood up and said, "Can I help you?"

"De Baroness". The traveller said flatly.

"She’s through there, but you can’t go in there." Too late the traveller turned for the door and the young fighter grabbed the travellers shoulder. The traveller grabbed the fighter’s hand in his huge fist and began to squeeze. The fighter let out a yelp and the traveller released him and opened the door. There were four people in the room, three men and a woman. The men were unremarkable as they stood and turned to face the intruder, but the woman...

She remained seated at the table and just looked at the hulking man at the door. "I’m sorry my lady. He wouldn’t wait outside." the young fighter came into the room behind the traveller.

"So what is so important that you had to interrupt this meeting?" The woman asked the traveller. The traveller just stared at the woman; he had never seen such a woman before. A strong body and a full crop of dark hair with an ample figure and her eyes, he began to drown in her eyes. Suddenly he became aware of himself,

"You take on freelancers?" The accent distorted the words but she understood him.

"Where have you performed previously?"

"De cidy Strondtal vas my lasd stopover." he replied.

"Long trip. Strontal isn’t known for many survivors, you must be good."

"I had misunderstanding wid one ov der trainers. De Arena has been closed until dey can find anoder two-veapon instructor." he said calmly.

"In this arena, we only performs classical battle and wrestling matches that display the fighter’s skills in battle, not his ability to kill opponents." She narrowed her eyes and looked him over measuring his physical strength and fitness.

"Dat would be different to de other arenas, but I can adapt my style."

"All right, I’ll test you tomorrow see how good you really are." he nodded.

"What is your name?"

"Euvgeni Maryamitrevnavich." he said and turned for the door....

"Hit me", the baroness said to the South-Easter. Euvgeni stood there battling with himself in the dawn light. "Okay, I’ll do it" she said and executed a perfect uppercut to his ribs. He gasped for breath and staggered back. His eyes began to dim a little. He lunged for the woman but she easily evaded his reaching hands and thrust her elbow into his kidneys. He gasped again, reeled back. His eyes glinted, and he growled low and menacingly.

"Easy, easy, you great oaf." she goaded him.

He let out a yell, feinted left and got in a glancing blow on her right forearm. Even though the contact was minimal, the power behind the blow wasn’t, she shuddered at the impact and staggered back one step looking at his arms with amazement. He tried a follow up punch to her midriff but she grabbed the punch and spun him to the ground. The sawdust flew up into the air. Instantly she raised her heel to stun his chest again. He caught the blow with his left hand and pulled her to the ground. They both got up instantly and faced off.

"You’re good, bear-man." she said licking her lips. He growled and moved forward, again she caught him in the ribs and then in the kidneys and then got unstuck as his arms began to wrap themselves about her torso he began to squeeze. In desperation, she tried to throw him off but he changed the hold and pulled her down with him. They landed on the ground their faces close together his bodyweight on her. He could feel her body close to him, their eyes met and he was mesmerised again.

After a short silence: "You’re hired. Your speed could do with some work but your power speaks for itself. Let us go and refresh ourselves." She walked out of the arena and through the entrance to the cloaking rooms. He followed her after dusting himself off. She turned a corner and entered a room with a large pool with reclining steps.

"There are separate cloak chambers for men and women. You may change in there." She pointed to an open archway,

Euvgeni turned and looked.

"What do you prefer? Hot or cold first?"

"Cold, den hot, den a massage, den a nice warm down wid de udder instructors. Was my usual ...ah yes my usual practice" He smiled struggling with the language outside the forest. Euvgeni turned to the door and went to change.

She pulled her tunic and undergarments off; the sweat glistened on her body. She did a perfect somersault into the pool and yelped at the temperature of the icy water. "Interesting, he does have some talent. He would be useful and beneficial to the arena." She waded to the seats in the pool and relaxed.

"My dear I’ve been looking all over for you." A tall blond man impeccably dressed strode into the room. He stopped at the opposite side of the pool.

"Hello, Justin dear, what news of the courts?" She turned over to face the pool wall lightly treading the water.

"Well, Baron Rathbone looks like he will probably ask you for the favour you owe him to overturn the motion for taxes on mineral ores. The Duke looks like he has got over your rebuttal of his marriage proposal and is chasing other skirt tails."

"I said he would get over it." Jessica said as she drew water pictures on the side of the pool.

"Ah well, that leaves it open for you and me now doesn’t it?"

"Yes it does Justin dear." She turned to face him her shoulders just above the water level the ripples distorting the lovely image below the water.

Justin winced and bowed "your grace, with your permission?"

"Of course, Justin you may do as you will around me. I have never stood on ceremony."

Justin began to de-robe and entered the pool with the eyes of the Baroness on his lean torso as he slowly submerged and glided to her. She opened her arms, they met in the centre of the pool, kissed gently and slowly sank into the passions and waters until all that was left were ripples.

Euvgeni returned to the room a silk robe wrapped around his body. He moved over to the pool took his robe off and dived in. The two lovers sprang up and yelled.

"What the blazes is the meaning of this you lumbering oaf!" Justin fumed at Euvgeni.

"Dis is for de fighters of de guild. I did not intend to disturb. I could not see de two of you under de water. My apology. I vill leave now." Euvgeni turned and made to leave.

Justin grabbed his shoulder and said, "Oh no, not that easy. How dare you dishonour the Lady by entering the room when she is naked? You disturbed the Baroness and me. You will owe me more than an apology. You will make sure that when you are here you do not disturb us ever again. Understand!" Justin glared at Euvgeni.

"Of course, I understand, you vant privacy. I did not see your Lady in her disrobed state. My apologies once again." Euvgeni’s eyes went dead as they flickered between the Baroness and Justin. "My lady" he nodded to the Baroness and turned to leave.

Justin grabbed Euvgeni’s shoulder again "Don’t let it happen again or you will answer to me. I am of noble blood."

"Vere I come from dere is not much call for rank or social distinction among de people. Ven rank is used it is usually a sign dat de person does not have de character or abilities to handle de given situation. But I will forgive you for dat as you did not know." Euvgeni said with a flat voice.

"How dare you insult my blood like that, you common thug, you will answer to me. Tomorrow, swords, first blood". Justin’s face was red with anger.

"I don’t think this is wise gentlemen." Jessica turned to Justin, "Justin he made a mistake why don’t you let it go." Jessica had a concerned look on her face.

"Baroness, dis is between me and him now. You can no longer prevent what he wants. Blood." Euvgeni faced the naked Baroness not once casting a downward glance.

Justin snapped and grabbed for Euvgeni. Euvgeni quickly prepared a throwing manoeuvre, grabbed him under both his arms and threw him over his head.

"You need to cool off." Euvgeni moved to the edge and pulled himself out before Justin could recover. Justin glared at Euvgeni’s back, pure hatred in his eyes. Jessica looked between the two men sizing them up. She nodded – Justin would win, but would his temper hold after he had won? She wondered about the coolness of Euvgeni in the situation. Strange, she felt uncomfortable with Justin in the room, but not when Euvgeni was naked in the pool, less than a metre from her.

"My dear, my ardour has evaporated, we shall have to continue at another time." Justin climbed out the pool.

"Of course, my dear". Strangely, she felt relief. She shivered and rubbed her shoulders, Just a few minute ago she was happy with the relationship with Justin but now there seemed to be something different, something not quite right.

The duellists prepared in the pre-dawn shadows. Justin stared at Euvgeni while Euvgeni went about his business with not much concern. When he was ready he turned and faced Justin. Justin saluted Euvgeni with his rapier. Crossing his hand over and raising the hilt to his face pointing the blade straight up. They circled each other and engaged. Justin was clearly quicker with his rapier. Euvgeni was holding his own. He didn’t get many shots in, he never really expected any less. After a couple of feints Justin lunged extra hard and struck hard at the side of Euvgeni. Euvgeni tried to sweep it aside but it scored and raked across his side. Blood poured from the wound. Euvgeni unconsciously grasped the rapier and moved it away form him. Justin whipped the blade and cut Euvgeni again. Euvgeni winced from the blow. Surprise and pain spread over his face as he looked at his hand. Blood poured form his left hand. He looked at Justin and recognised something in the glint of his eyes. He was raging inside, his eye were dilating, A berserker! Euvgeni knew there would be trouble. He swung the blade high and hoped his side wouldn’t rip open. Relying on his strength Euvgeni came down on top of Justin turning his blade flat at the last moment. Justin reacted slowly, razing the fencing blade in defence. A shriek echoed from up in the empty balconies. Euvgeni felt the blade strike Justin on the head. He used all his force to knock Justin out. Justin staggered under the blow. Dazed and confused he tottered and began to fall. Euvgeni grabbed him and slowly let him drop to the ground.

"You, had already lost! Why did you have to humiliate him like that?" Jessica shouted down at him fury on her face. She raced down the levels of the arena to the fighting floor. Euvgeni looked up and saw a red raging demon instead of a woman bearing down on him.

"You vould not understand. I vas saving him from his inner beast." Euvgeni stood up and looked at his wounds. Nothing serious the side gash would need to be stitched up. His hand cut would heal with a light scar. He grimaced and looked up at the approaching Baroness.

" My apologies again my lady, He would have done worse to me if I had let him yield to his beast."

"What are you talking about? You just retaliated after he drew blood"; you have a lot to learn. You will learn here or you will not survive. I expect many nobles will now pick on you because of today."

"But I am sure Justin would have done worse if I had not knocked him out. You do not trust my judgement?"

"We shall see when Justin awakens."

Justin awoke in the chambers of the Baroness with the Baroness looking on as the physician leaned over him.

"A sturdy young fellow this. He’ll be fine in a few hours. A strong lad that southerner."

"A coward and a dishonourable one at that. I’ll have him in court for his actions." Justin clenched his fist, a grimace spread across his face as the pain returned.

"You need to rest, your Lordship. The head is obviously coming out of shock. You should sleep this off for a few days before you continue your normal habits sire."

"Thank you, Rasputin. You may go now." Justin nodded to the physician.

When he left, Justin leaned up and over to Jessica who was sitting at the base of the bed, "Now my dear tell me what you saw and we’ll compare notes. I have a feeling I will need your council in court."

"Justin, I saw a man who had lost a duel retaliate at the victor. It’s a good thing you have a strong head. His down strike does not need any more practice." She smiled.

"I’ll bet." Justin chuckled. "So I think we’ll start with the younger nobles trying him out then I’ll put my men on him to teach him a lesson about honour and rank." Justin face set in a firm mask.

"Well, you certainly know how to pick your enemies, don’t let him get another chance like that again, you nearly missed that strike. He just about told you where he was going to strike. What were you thinking?" "Uh yes, I uh, don’t know." Justin began to rub his head. "I’m feeling a little woozy can you turn the lights down?"

"Of course, I’ll see you later this afternoon." Jessica leaned over and kissed Justin on the forehead, stood up and left the room.

"Now my little southerner, let’s see how you deal with real underhanded fighters." Justin muttered under his breath. He smiled a twisted smile as he lay back and flexed his hand without a sign of a grimace on his face. "Quite convenient this little head injury, I’m in her castle now. Huh, all that flattery and all it took was a lump on the head. Wonders never cease to amaze me." He closed his eyes and let out a sigh of contentment.

The next day, the Baroness had Euvgeni meet all the other members of the guild. There were a large number of nobles amongst the trainers, looking on with disdain. Only one young Lord, the son of a local Baron, was friendly enough to Euvgeni. He spoke in an open honest fashion much to Euvgeni’s liking. After the first day, Euvgeni and Richard were together in the inn eating and drinking, sharing tales of combat and glory. A couple of instructors stood at the bar. Euvgeni eventually got up to relieve himself. He moved to the back door, The Lord at the bar moved back into Euvgeni’s way. Euvgeni looked at the man. He just stood there facing the bar with his drink. He picked his drink and dropped it on the floor. "Oh dear. Look what the clumsy southerner has done. He spilled my drink." He turned to face Euvgeni. "What are you going to do about my drink?"

"You dropped it on the floor, I vould say you need a mop to clean dis good barkeeps floor." Euvgeni’s eyes hardened.

"I think you should clean it up and pay for a round for me and my friends."

"No". Euvgeni said firmly not moving an inch.

"You made a mistake, you are the foreigner. You do not tell me what to do." The Lord stepped up to Euvgeni. He was dwarfed by Euvgeni. He looked determined enough, and more than experienced. "You are contemptible. I challenge you."

"I refuse."

"You cannot refuse a Lord." The barkeep said as he began to clear up the bar top of glasses... Just in case.

"To the first cut?" Euvgeni asked.

"The first cut, or my first strike, one and the same." The Lord drew his long sword. It gleamed and ringed as it slipped out of its sheath. "Death-bringer, named by my great great grand father."

Euvgeni stood back moved to draw a long sword, relaxed. The Lord’s sword dropped an inch. Euvgeni’s hand moved like lightning and brushed along the Lord’s sword. A drop of blood fell to the floor.

"Well done. You win." Euvgeni turned and went back to his table, leaving the Lord standing in confusion. The Lord strode up to the table "What do you think you are doing?" his voice began to rise.

"To the first cut or your first strike. Were those not your words? Or are you prepared to go back on your word. As I understand a Lord’s word is practically law." Euvgeni spoke with an open face.

Richard hid his laugh as he coughed out an imaginary chunk of food. The Lord stared hard at Euvgeni.

"You may have weaselled out of it tonight but there will be many more. Tonight is the first of many. I see you have already befriended our little lost dog, Richard?" the Lord turned his stare from the one to the other.

"The street is a tougher master than the court, Lord Anthan. He has learned to survive, you have learned to show off."

Richard looked up at the Lord and smiled slowly. The conversation at an end, Richard and Euvgeni continued to eat. Lord Anthan glowered and gripped his sword hard. He moved the sword point towards Euvgeni. Euvgeni stopped eating and said in a menacing voice. "Don’t start something unless you are prepared to finish it." The Lord stopped, looked around the inn. The faces watched him. He relaxed and sheathed his sword. He straightened up, turned and strode out the room.

"You are taking a very big risk Richard. I may not be from around here and I may not stay here long. Your home is here, you will risk your name if you stay around me."

"What! Are you kidding? I haven’t had any friends outside the correct circles. Most of them are stuffed shirts anyway. I’ll take that risk." Richard patted Euvgeni’s hand. The evening mellowed pleasantly with the wines and cheeses.

For the following few weeks, Euvgeni was challenged by other lesser nobles loyal to Justin. He behaved with honour in all duels. He won some and lost some. He avoided situations where he might encounter the Lords in a social context. He always hid the bruises from the Baroness, not wanting her to know that he was struggling to remain healthy as Justin’s loyal nobles slowly whittled his resistance down. Euvgeni bared it and always arrived at the practice sessions, promptly leaving just as quickly. He never did anything out of order. He followed the Lords’ instructions implicitly. The Baroness noticed the Lords pestering, but it was nothing she could interfere with any way. Euvgeni could learn something about patience this way. Euvgeni and Richard became sparring partners in due course. Already Euvgeni was an expert in wrestling and hand-to-hand combat. Richard was a friend to Euvgeni from a quarter that he never expected.

The clashing of swords and shields could be heard from the arena for many days as Euvgeni was put through his paces with the other performers. Although he was still young, he could outmatch fighters of greater experience only because of his sheer strength. He could fight multiple opponents and showed great adaptability to wrestling due to his size and strength. When the trainers devised the choreography for the fights, Euvgeni was always suggesting other alternatives to the situation. The Lords didn’t like his interference. Euvgeni didn’t really expect the city and outlying fighters to accept him; he was used to this reaction. Engrossed in learning the intricacies of wrestling and sparring with other wrestlers he quickly learned that the objective was to achieve an unbreakable hold on your opponent. This caused the most fatigue on the opponent than any other manoeuvre. All the time the Baroness watched the new fighter from the balconies in the arena stands, her arms crossed with a contemplative frown on her face, pacing, watching. Have I misjudged him? Maybe there is truth in both men? I will wait to see...

On a day when the rain clouds heralded the sunrise, Euvgeni was walking along the side streets to the guild. He turned a corner and bumped into the two thugs whom had met his arrival in this town.

"Well, well, if it isn’t the namby-pamby, we meet again."

"You haf already been taught your lesson. If you are hard of learning then you will be taught again."

Euvgeni stood back a pace drawing his double handed sword. There was a flurry of movement off to his side down another narrow alley he turned to allow for another attacker. Then the whizzing noise of the arrow pierced the air. The thud was followed by a grunt from Euvgeni. He looked down the fletching of an arrow stuck out of his torso. He clutched the end of it looking up at the thugs. The third thug stepped up, "My, my. Aren’t we surprised? Not all prefer melee combat. The further away we are from the combat the better." He drew the short sword, moved up to Euvgeni and began to feint and thrust at the southerner. Euvgeni parried each time wincing as the jolting caused more pain. Euvgeni began to lose his bearing, his breathing laboured. All three thugs began to move into the fray. Euvgeni’s instinct for survival began to take over. He tried hard to hold onto his control but the rage kept on building until he could no longer hold it back. He let out a blood curdling war cry and went into a frenzy of attacks. The thugs backed off.

Euvgeni concentrated all his attacks on the leader. He fell back until a shot ripped through his defences. The blow had lethal intent. The thug’s sword saved his life as it caught the hilt of Euvgeni’s blade. The leader slumped and feinted from the shock of the wound. As Euvgeni concentrated on the leader the second thug manoeuvred behind him and thrust at the unguarded flank. Euvgeni ignored the gash in his side. He turned to the attack, grabbed the thug’s shirt raised him into the air with one hand. The thug grabbed at Euvgeni’s hand trying to break the grip. Euvgeni’s eyes were dilated and unfocussed. His eyes narrowed and he threw the thug into the wall. He slid down the wall and lay at the base of the wall in a pile. The third thug had moved back and looking around at the mayhem turned and ran. Euvgeni, breathing so heavily, the glazed look absent from his eyes, sunk to the floor into a world of pain and exhaustion. He slumped to the ground breathing heavily. He reached up for the arrow, but found that it had broken off in the fight. He grimaced and lay there regaining his breath. He glanced at the thugs. One had a welt on the forehead as the reward for his actions, the other a serious gash in the torso. He slowly got up off the floor and gingerly moved to the arena. The people in the street didn’t notice the blood on his tunic as the dawn light hid the stains in the many shadows of the houses and trees of the town. He reached the doors to the arena. His eyes were wide open. The pain began to sap his strength to stay conscious. He pushed the doors open and staggered in to the foyer, Richard look up from his stool as he sharpened his blade.

"Euvgeni what happened? " concern in his eyes as he rushed to help Euvgeni. He took Euvgeni’s arm and supported him with his body. "You really aren’t very popular here."

"I guess it’s the hair." Euvgeni smiled wanly.

"Come on lets get you sorted out."

The arena surgeon treated Euvgeni’s wounds. "This arrow wound is dangerously close to the lung, we must push it out the other end. I’ll need your help Richard."

They turned Euvgeni over on to his side; the surgeon placed the metal rod on the edge of the arrow shaft. The surgeon whacked the end with a mallet. Euvgeni screamed and feinted. The arrowhead pierced the skin and blood welled around it as well as a festering smell. Richard grabbed the tip and pulled it out. The surgeon placed his hands on the two wounds, closed his eyes and murmured a prayer to his deity. There was a warm pink glow from his hands and the two wounds slowly closed up until a reddish fresh scab was left. Perspiration dropped off the surgeon’s brow.

"He does not have much faith, but he will heal quickly. This shoulder will recover in a week. He’ll be up and around later this morning."

Euvgeni woke up in his inn room with a pounding headache. Richard looked up as he stirred.

"So the bear awakes. I wondered if you were in hibernation."

Euvgeni smiled, "I’ll be needing your help to catch these thugs. They were not doing this alone. I think that a Lord is behind these duels and attacks."

Justin waltzed into the entrance foyer of the Baroness’ castle. The butler bowed "Morning m’lud. The lady is in the dining hall."

"Very well, announce me." Justin handed his cloak and gloves to the butler.

"I’m very sorry, but she is in conference with another. She gave express orders not to disturb her until it was resolved."

"I see, very well show me into the South room. I’ll wait for her there."

"Very good sir I will do so. If you will follow me".

"Who is the other?"

"She is currently in negotiations with Baron Rathbone."

"Ah yes, the favour". Justin’s eye narrowed, "I wonder if it might not be something else though? Hmm. Oh well not my business." Justin shrugged and smiled at the butler. The butler looked on impassively.

Justin sat in the couch he lay across it with his feet on the armrest. The coffee table had fruits on a plate. He was picking grapes. He stared vacantly out the tall alcove windows as they looked out over the lawns and estates of the castle.

"Damn that Rathbone." The double doors flew open as the Baroness glided in on a foul cloud. She looked up at Justin relaxing in the couch. "Get your ruddy boots off my couch!"

"Ooh, forgive me oh mighty angry one." Justin stood up and bowed towards her in mock terror.

"Well what brings you here?" she did not relent.

"You my dear as always. To express my true devotion’s at your feet." Justin placed his hand over his heart and raised his eyes to the heavens. He held the pose. The Baroness pursed her lips and sighed, "Oh well. Shall we avail ourselves to the patio, I have need for some tea."

"Oh by all means my dear. I live to please." He flourished. She smiled and relaxed.

"Oh incidentally what wager are you putting on for the jousting contests?" Justin waited expectantly.

" I have decided not to wager this year." The Baroness said as they walked out the glass doors to the patio.

"A wise decision, but I think I will wager that I will be the only one receiving the kiss from the Duke’s sister."

"Ooh, you are an impertinent young man." She smiled wryly.

"Lord. My dear". He corrected.

"Doesn’t the Lady Kanzan have any say in the matter?" she asked flirtatiously.

"No. Just make sure you are in the stand with the Duke so that I receive that little kiss from you." Justin stared hard at her.

She returned the stare. He broke the eye contact and smiled, "Such a lovely day".

"Yes indeed." The Baroness remarked looking out onto the estate gardens.

The butler walked out onto the patio " My lady there is an unwholesome man outside the portcullis? He claims to be a fighter of the guild. He says he wishes to discuss a matter of urgency with you in private."

"Tell him to come back tomorrow." Justin looked at the Baroness. She looked back at him.

She nodded, "Yes, I am tired of earnest complaints and other such nonsense for today. Jerard, you may tell him that, please." Justin smiled in triumph.

"Very well, my Lady." The butler wheeled and started into the castle to deal with the visitor.

"Well let’s get down to the business of some serious relaxation." Justin relaxed into a sofa and reached for the teapot. His reflection glinted off the silver surface. He checked the image out and nodded to himself. "Strong or weak, my dear."

Euvgeni returned to the guild and walked into the foyer with a foul temper. "I knew it, he is there poisoning her against me." Euvgeni smashed a fist into the wall.

Richard walked in from the fighting floor. " Who’s being poisoned now? Euvgeni, are they trying to poison you now?"

"No, worse. The Baroness is being blinded to my integrity and I can do not a thing to stop it. That damned Justin."

The other fighters looked up at the name and looked at Euvgeni. Richard also turned towards Euvgeni, "What do you mean? Are you accusing him of something?"

"No, I cannot, he is too clever he gets other to do his dirty work. I cannot prove that he caused any of this to happen."

"Good, you would be unwise to open yourself up to that kind of fight. He has too many friends in the court. Your attempts would be useless and you would jeopardise yourself further. If that is at all possible". Richard considered.

"I agree. We will have to wait for him to come out and fight this battle himself. All his other ploys have met with limited success." Euvgeni looked around at the other fighters. They did not meet his gaze they just continued with their activities. "Well maybe he will make his mistake at the grand tourney next week."

"Tourney?" Euvgeni look up excitement in his eyes. He rubbed his hands and giggled with pleasure.

"Finally a test of how far I have progressed."

Richard laughed and nodded; "Yes, I’ll be entering the Lord’s contest of honour".

"Lord’s contest?" Euvgeni looked puzzled.

"Sorry Euvgeni, if you were hoping to face off with Justin you will have to wait for another tourney, the open tourney next month." Richard consoled his friend.

"Ah well. We see how I do there anyway." Euvgeni’s grammar faltered as his disappointment filtered through his euphoria.

"How’s the shoulder?"

"Hmm, I had forgotten about it. It seems to be healing well. It will be ready for next week." Euvgeni smiled and Richard strode up to him.

"Come lets see how good you really are." they walked out onto the fighting floors.

The day of the Lords’ tourney came up quickly. Euvgeni worked on his shoulder until there were no aches. Richard and Euvgeni cross-trained, since both shared disciplines. Euvgeni broke a lot of jousting poles. Richard got thrown an awful lot. The day finally arrived all was ready, the banners hung from buildings all over the town, many Lords came from afar to compete for the Duke’s favour. The town folk were in a state of expectancy. The Lords began to display their family crests and colours from early in the day. Their regalia were a sight to behold in the streets as dreamy-eyed children raced after the Lords on their steeds.

"My lady you have a message". Jerard walked into the south room.

"Who is it from?" the Baroness was curious. Most petitioners knew that she preferred a personal visit. It gave her the opportunity to size up the petitioner.

"The unsavoury gentleman I turned away a few days ago."

"Ah. Yes I had forgotten." She took the envelope from the tray Jerard offered.

Lady Jessica,

Your fairness in all matters is well known to all, but I feel that I have been done an injustice by you. You have given me no opportunity to speak my mind when it is crucial to my well being. Make no mistake the matter is of life and death of more than myself. I have been at odds with a certain suitor of yours ever since I interrupted you those many weeks ago in the guild pools.

Lord Justin Baltazar has now gone beyond the tenants of a Lord. For the past few weeks, he has been, engaging me in the street, forcing me to draw weapons on his underlings and lap dogs. The engagement has so far been at a distance, but I know it to be him that is the kingpin behind these deeds. I have hidden these events from you not wanting your wrath to fall on me again. I know it was not the wisest course but I am unaccustomed to relying on others to do what I must do. These are serious allegations and I do not have any proof save the wounds that have been inflicted on my body. I have committed no murder. I have had to be extremely cautious, as I do not know whom to trust. I know that I can trust you for a fair appraisal of the situation. I only wish you to be aware of the activities of one of your suitors.

The Lord’s tourney will be a perfect time for him to attempt to eliminate me especially if he wins the tourney. I make no predictions I am merely suggesting a possibility.

A fly caught in a spider’s web does not realise its error until the web has caught its wings.

Your undying servant

Euvgeni Maryamitrevnavich.

P.S. Please water the gift. It will last longer.

He grudgingly moved his hand from behind his back and produced a whole red rose plant. A small bud was beginning to develop.

"Oh. He is a strange one." She circled the small plant. "Jerard, will you plant the rose with the other roses in the garden".

"Yes my lady." Jerard picked up the rose plant and proceeded to perform his horticulturist duties. Her eyes went back to the letter. "You are indeed extremely brave to accuse one of noble blood without proof. And good proof at that. I wonder who wrote this note, my southern barbarian.

"Jerard! Have the unsavoury gentlemen join me for lunch today." She folded the note up.

"Well now Euvgeni you are making some very strong statements in this letter. Explain yourself." The Baroness sat across from Euvgeni as they dined in one of the wings of Castle Kanzan.

"There is much that has been omitted from the note. Where I come from there is no such thing as noble bloodlines. They were wiped out centuries ago by my ancestors. We believe in the value of each person and his contribution to the whole in judging quality of character. Honour is not bestowed amongst a privileged few, less so to certain select bloodlines. I am telling you where I coming from so that you understand my perceptions. This Lord Justin is a vagabond and a cunning antagonist. He plays for the highest stakes, death, mine in particular. In our society, we have warriors that are touched by the blood lust. It is in all of us. Only in some, it is easier to reach and call on to aid us in battle. I have been touch so. So too has Justin, I am surprised that he does not try to control it. In my homeland, we have to travel to learn about the beast within. We must learn to control that rage before we can return to protect our people. Those that return, return with the knowledge of other races and cultures and know how best to defend against them. Those that don’t are seen to be lost, their souls given in to the rage. We have warriors that put your best champions to shame. They live with their swords at their side from their youngest days. By the age of ten or twelve, they could defeat your warriors in the arena. At my age, they are contemplating the higher order of sword fighting. They are untouchable by other fighters. You do not even realise how inept your sword masters are."

"So you are one of these so called sword masters?" the Baroness interrupted, beginning to take offence.

"Me? No, you did not listen. Those that stay become the best sword masters; those that have to leave learn the strategies and tactics of our neighbours. They serve a dual purpose, one to learn about others and two to learn about themselves. When they return they are accorded into the highest ranks. Getting back to the beast within, if it is not brought under control it can take over the person until he will give in to it at the slightest provocation. Justin has that tendency. He was going into a rage when he struck me. The blood of your enemies is the hardest scent to fight off when the rage builds. Initially he was only interested in humiliating me, but that failed weeks ago. Now all he is interested in is removing me from society, for good. I believe that he will do this personally. I think that he will soon drag you into this foray. I do not think that it will be pleasant for you."

"I see that your mind is made up in this affair." The Baroness mused as she looked at him. "Your case has no substance, no proof. Where is your proof?"

"This is my proof." He stood up and began to take his tunic off.

"Uh, this is uh not what I had in mind..." the Baroness began to look away but eventually attracted to the man’s well built physique looked at his bare torso. Somehow, it seemed more sensual here now than it did when he fought bare-topped at the arena.

"These wounds are still new. They do not come from training at the arena. We do not fight to first blood at the arena. You know that. This wound over my heart was the latest attempt on my life. An unseen archer shot me and then left his thugs friends to finish me off. He made the mistake of not finishing me off when he had the chance."

"What happened to them?" she asked.

"As far as I can tell they are licking their wounds in a dark damp corner sponsored by Lord Justin."

" I see. Why have you not come forward about this earlier?"

"There were three of them, they could cover for each other. I am the outsider here. How far do you think I would get confronting them in the court, especially since Justin sent them?"

"A very negative perspective. You have now told me; what do you expect from me? I am duty bound to report this to the Duke."

"No I do not wish this to leave this room. I expect that Lord Justin will attempt a gambit of his own during the tourney. It is what I expect him to do. He is good enough to win this tourney. He would hold much power and would be granted certain liberties if he won. I warn you to guard yourself if he does win. If you would honour one request from me, it would be that you delay your report until the end of the tourney."

" I think these matters are too serious to leave for that long. Your words are very convincing; I will give you two days to prove your accusations. Then you are at the mercy of the courts."

"Then I might as well never have asked you to see me. Justin has already biased you towards me." Euvgeni turned and stormed out the room.

"I did not give you permission to leave!" The Baroness shouted at Euvgeni.

"I do not ask others about what I can or cannot do!" Euvgeni turned back to face her, "I expected some leniency from you since I thought you knew Justin and some of his tricks but it is obvious you are well trapped in his webs of deceit. Good day Baroness". He turned and strode out the room.

"You will be given two days. Then the court will decide." She shouted after him. That man! That arrogant, stubborn man! He can’t be telling the truth. Justin would not be that twisted. "The beast within him". Somehow, that did not scare me when he said that. I felt comfortable with him here. Justin somehow unnerves me when he gets that steely look in his eyes, could that be the beast? She shuddered.

That afternoon the preliminary jousting contests began, many Lords were feeling out the opposition but Justin ruthlessly eliminated those he encountered whether it was a sanctioned duel or not. Justin became to be the feared challenger in all events. Not quarter was given. No apologies were given when he went beyond the accepted levels of aggression. Many Lords were injured or rendered unconscious at the hand of Justin. The Duke watched on with interest. Not normally given to favour any given Lord he certainly gave Justin much attention.

After two days of contesting, there were only four Lords left. Richard had surpassed himself, carefully avoiding Justin; he reached the final four. Richard was billeted to face off with Justin in the next joust. Euvgeni was warning Richard to avoid Justin’s wild swings to stay focused on the target. He told Richard that the goal of this tourney was not to see the body count but to be victor with the minimum of effort. Richard got out onto the fields of combat. Justin was waiting for him at the other end. They steadied their horses and amidst the crowd’s roaring, they rushed towards each other. Only at the last moment did Euvgeni realise his mistake, Justin had carefully looked to have missed Richard only now he had avoided Richard on purpose. Euvgeni began to worry for Richard’s life.

The clash of the two combatants brought Euvgeni out of his well of thought. He looked up to see the two jousting poles shattered. The two Lords received another pole form their seconds. Richard saluted the Duke and charged towards Justin who charged recklessly towards Richard. Richard’s pole hit Justin’s shield and shattered again. Justin’s pole struck Richard squarely in the midriff. He flew from his horse and hit the ground with a heavy thud. Justin brought his horse to a halt. He turned the horse around and cantered up to the fallen figure. He dismounted and looked down at the figure. He drew his sword. The figure moved.

Euvgeni pushed through the crowd. Head and shoulders above the rest of the spectators, he reached the ropes. He bent underneath them. The crowd went silent as Justin pointed the sword at Richard’s head. He leant down and took the helmet off. Blood matted Richard’s hair. His head turned to see the balconies alongside the field. Justin grabbed the hilt of his sword with both hands and pulled it up for a deathblow. The crowd screamed.

"NOOO! Here I am!" Euvgeni shouted out. He walked out onto the field, drawing his two-handed sword. Justin laughed, raised the sword and brought it down. Richard had quietly drawn his sword to deflect the blow. It saved his life. The blow crashed into the sword and grazed Richard’s forehead. Justin immediately shifted his weight to deflect Euvgeni’s attack but it did not arrive. He looked up wild-eyed at the southerner. He stood ten paces away two handed sword in hand, waiting. Justin was in the rage before the first contact. He stood away from Justin knowing that time was the enemy for Justin.

"You must decide if he lives or not, afterwards I will decide whether you live or not." Euvgeni spoke evenly.

Justin laughed cruelly. He moved up to Euvgeni. He swung wildly at Euvgeni. He parried the blow and moved out of the path of the second reverse swing. The rage in Justin’s eyes was over-flowing.

"You dance the death dance, Justin." Euvgeni shook his head sadly. "You have one last chance to reclaim your soul."

Euvgeni waited. Justin’s answer was a blood curdling cry and a savage flurry of attacks. Euvgeni just moved back out of range. Justin was sweating profusely. The wildness in his eyes had not left.

"How long do you think you can continue?"

Euvgeni waved his sword in a slowly rhythmical movement. Justin began to follow the sword tip. He snapped out and charged Euvgeni again, this time not letting Euvgeni to escape out of range. Euvgeni dove flat on the floor as Justin over-extended on one of his attacks. Euvgeni grabbed Justin’s armoured leg and yanked with all his might. Justin unbalanced further and fell to the floor. Euvgeni quickly wrestled him into a vice-like lock hold. Justin’s eyes began to glaze over as the rage slowly left him. He struggled to break the lock hold. Euvgeni strained to keep him down. By this stage, a crowd had surrounded the two. Euvgeni released Justin as his torpor overtook him. Euvgeni looked up at the crowd. The Duke towered over him.

"What is the meaning of this?"

"Saving the life of a friend surpasses any traditions that you or I hold dear. Lord Justin would have undoubtedly killed Lord Richard. We would have lost a valuable friend, you and I. I have no intention of losing him to a dishonourable Lord."

"A what?" the Duke demanded.

"You would not understand this with words. Let me show you." He pulled the helmet off Justin’s face. He was panting heavily his eyes dilated and glazed.

"How does that change anything that you have done today?" the Duke folded his arms.

"I have my own interest in this which I will not tell you, suffice it to say that I have prevented Justin from murdering my friend. I am his real target. I think that in itself explains my actions."

"I do not think so. You have insulted me and the Lords here present by interfering in the ancient art of chivalry. We will adjourn to the court. I will have answers from you." He pointed at Euvgeni.

"It is entirely up to Lord Justin to decide whether Richard is spared at the end of a joust. So go the rules since time immemorial."

"Forgive me, Duke, perhaps I can shed some light on the matter." The Baroness broke through the crowds. "I was approached some two days ago and given some information about Justin that might explain his actions and the actions of this man."

The Duke raised his hand in a dismissive gesture "Anything that you have to say will be said in court."

The procession to the court at the Duke’s Castle took an hour, as all were keen to hear the evidence the Baroness had acquired. They poured into the amphitheatre. The dome towered over the proceedings. There was murmuring from the crowd. The Duke entered wearing full regalia. The crowd hushed at his entrance. He sat down in the centre chair at the horseshoe table.

"Dis looks familiar." Euvgeni murmured under his breath.

"Quiet. You’re in trouble. Let me get you out of this." The Baroness tapped his shoulder from behind him.

He turned his head and looked into her eyes, "I trust you, your eyes are honest. I hope you have something else to tell them besides what I told you."

"Oh yes... You didn’t think I wouldn’t check out your story. You underestimate me, Euvgeni."

"I hope so." He smiled and put his hands behind his back. She smirked.

"Let the hearing commence." The Duke stood up and raised both hands. "Let all lend their attention to the evidences put before this impartial court. Baroness, you may begin." The Duke looked out at the crowd, ruffled his robe and sat down to listen.

"Duke Kanzan, I have acquired some information concerning Lord Justin. I have verified some of the statements made to me by another, whom I shall not mention to protect them." The Baroness stood up from her chair next to the standing figure of Euvgeni.

"You may sit down." The Duke commanded Euvgeni. He remained standing and looked back at the Duke.

"I am in the court of a foreign land. The leader is accusing me of some crime committed it would seem against his own self. That is not the court of a friend. I prefer to stand." There was a murmuring from the crowd. The Baroness turned and looked at Euvgeni and rolled her eyes.

"Will you just shut up and sit down." She snapped at him. Before he realised, Euvgeni sat down and suddenly felt foolish.

"The information I have acquired concerns the actions of Justin against this man." She indicated to Euvgeni. Justin sat calmly playing with his quill. Looking bored with proceedings.

"This personal vendetta has been instigated by Justin against Euvgeni because of a mistake that he made months ago. It involves me personally but I feel that it is important so I will tell of the event."

She proceeded to outline the event. She then outlined in remarkably accurate detail the attacks and other events that were linked to this affair. She then called in a witness. It was one of the three thugs. Euvgeni shot up looking at the thug with a predatory look. He tensed visibly. He slowly began to relax but now remained standing. The crowd gasped at Euvgeni’s reaction.

"Now you realise that what you say here must be the truth." The Duke leaned forward.

He nodded and furtively glanced periodically to Euvgeni’s chair to make sure he hadn’t moved.

"Very well proceed."

Justin lent back in his chair, rocking back and forth, holding a glass of wine...

The thug’s name was Calvin, he was a farmer and had been roped in by the other two for the extra cash, the rains had been not so good last season. The unofficial leader, Garet kept on having secretive meetings with some ‘benefactor’ as he called it and he gave them their assignments to carry out. The most times it was to harass outsiders and newcomers but most times, it was Euvgeni that was the centre of attention. Then he described the dawn attack on Euvgeni and how Euvgeni had just not gone down. The farmer had decided he would rather risk any dry year than get close to Euvgeni’s sword arm. The crowd laughed at that statement. The Baroness smiled.

"Thank you. You may go." The man got up looked at Euvgeni and quickly left the hall. As he reached the doors the Duke raises his hand in an offish manner, the guards blocked the doors. The frightened man was stopped and taken to a seat on the side. Euvgeni watched the guards. Euvgeni looked over to the Baroness; he beckoned her over. He leaned down and whispered, "your Duke has another agenda in this. I vould not go too much longer. Just get me out of here. I can feel the hackles on my back rising."

She looked up into his eyes and nodded. She smiled. He smiled back.

"My Lord I have evidence that the arrow that pierced Euvgeni in that attack belongs to Justin. It has the House markings that represent his House in battle." She pointed to a gentleman. Justin spurted out the wine he was about to swallow. He sat up now much more attentive.

"I caught the bow-man whom was involved. He is Justin’s special agent in the surrounding areas. I will not go into the details but he has sworn to his statements and has signed to that effect he has not done any of this under duress." The guards at the door looked over to the Duke, the Duke acknowledged and the doors opened again. The man walked in under the watchful eye of the Baroness’ best fighters from the guild.

"This is Ramon de Torez." He flourished a bow as she spoke.

"He was the bow-man. This is his written statement."

He looked over to Euvgeni, cocked a hand and fired it. He blew away the smoke from the finger.

"He also happens to be a part-time illusionist." The man bowed once again, looked up in the bow and winked at Euvgeni. The Baroness handed the Duke the statement.

He read it and stood up, "Very well but this still does not reveal any solution or explain any of what happened today".

"Let me finish my Lord. Lord Richard befriended Euvgeni months ago, Justin attempts to eliminate Euvgeni proved futile, so he attacked his friends out of spite. The rage that he displayed today is a curse that if not controlled properly can take over the soul of that person. I received this information from one who is himself cursed by the same rages. He passed through here years ago."

The Baroness sat down next to Euvgeni.

The Duke stood up and said "This is my judgement, Lord Justin Aquila Baltazar will pay the sum of fifty gold sovereigns as recompense to this gentleman. As to the other evidence, most of it is circumstantial and hearsay, I will overlook the actions of both parties and call the matter resolved. The only persons here whom we can punish are Calvin and Ramon de Torez." He looked over to the farmer.

Euvgeni stood up. "You call yourself a duke when all you do is cover the truth and assign blame to those who least deserve it. You are no duke!" Euvgeni stormed over to the door.

The guards moved to intercept, the Duke raised his hand and they backed off allowing him to leave. The Duke turned to the Baroness, "A rather spirited one you’ve found there, Jessica". He smiled at her. "Is he as passionate in bed?" he twisted the smile. She scowled and followed Euvgeni out the court. "The farmer forfeits half his land for his involvement" The Duke looked at the farmer. His eyes were rimmed with tears as he tried to beg for clemency. "Very well, that or…" He pondered, "yes, one hundred gold coins." He smiled, and turned to leave the court.

"To let the vanquished live delivers a message more powerful than any quick death ever could." Euvgeni spoke as he walked the road down the hillside to the town. Jessica chased after him.

"Euvgeni you haven’t lost yet, there are other options." She caught up with him. They stopped in the road.

"You have done your best. The Duke has made an arrangement with Justin You must discover that. It will endanger you and your business interests. I will be leaving shortly."

"What? You could be so much more here. Where else will you get better lifestyle?" her voice rising sounding slightly panicked.

"Home." Euvgeni smiled wistfully. "I intend to return."

"Yes, I understand. But first I want something from you."

He looked back at her quizzically." An evening of wining and dining with the strong southerner, the one they call the bear-man." She smiled.

He smiled and shrugged, "What could it matter, to you I am just another fighter with his own foreign ideas. I am..."

"You are who you are, no denials or secrets I wish to know and understand Euvgeni Maryamitrevnavich... Could you shorten your family name?"

Euvgeni laughed hard and loud. He looked back up the road as a carriage came charging down. They stood aside as it raced down the hill to the town stones and dust flying up into the air.

"Justin has made new plans I see." Euvgeni’s eyes narrowed. "Come, we must consider his next actions. I believe he has an eye on your holdings. We must consider how this is to be achieved." Euvgeni’s frown turned to rapture, "you fool it is me, they will get to you through me."

"I won’t let that happen. If they attack me through you they will have made a serious error." The Baroness vowed, " I think we need a finely set trap to catch the Duke and Justin."

They walked the late evening light down to the town. They bade farewell and parted ways.

Euvgeni opened his room door in the inn, "a fine display today, don’t you think Euvgeni?" Justin sat in a chair in the dark corner.

"Get out." Euvgeni stopped in the doorway. "You have made enough mistakes for today. Do not make your last here."

"Oh no my blind little southerner, you are the one who has faltered. The Baroness’ days are numbered". He smiled and chuckled to himself, a twist warped the smile and it became a snarl. His eye’s widened as he struggled to control the rage as it suddenly built up. He began to sweat, and breathe heavily. Euvgeni relaxed and sat down in another chair on the other side of the room.

"Yes, the curse returns when you least expect it, now that you have allowed it to control you. After a time, you will have become the beast within entirely. None will allow you near." Euvgeni became solemn. "I cannot save you from that, here, now, but you can. You must willingly give your soul up to the gods in order for it to be redeemed." Justin leaned back and began to laugh hard. Suddenly he lunged forward faster than Euvgeni could react; a small blade touched Euvgeni’s throat.

"Or, I could just slash you here, now and end this little theological repartee." Justin’s eyes were bloodshot. Euvgeni looked at Justin. "Actually you know I think I will let you live to see what I have planned for Jessica. Yes, her lovely body will be mine to play with." He whispered cruelly.

"Have you seen her naked? Why, yes of course you have! That first night we met. What an ironic twist! I will still be the only one of us two to have done to her what a woman is only really good for." His smile twisted again. Euvgeni’s eyes changed focus and acquired a far away look. His breathing began to deepen and quicken at the same time. Justin stopped gloating and stepped back. He looked on curiously. "My word, hmm. You are one too. Ha! I should have guessed."

Euvgeni’s eyes unfocussed turned in his voice’s direction. "If you want to live leave now or witness a true berserker rage." He stepped towards Justin his body beginning to shake. His hands clenching and unclenching. Justin stepped back admiring the change in Euvgeni. "Nice moves, I like it." His head nodded. Euvgeni snapped like a coiled spring. He smashed into Justin and threw him against the wall.

"Last chance, soulless one." Justin slammed into the room wall. The wooden slats creaked and splintered under the force of the impact. Justin arched his back and winced in pain. The voice had deadpan flat note, not an ounce of emotion. Justin began to back away smiling as the pain wracked his body.

"Sorry southerner, another time when the odds are in my favour". He backed out of the doorway into the corridor, pointing his blade at Euvgeni. Euvgeni advanced on him. He quickly turned and raced down the stairway to the first landing. Euvgeni followed him. A chambermaid was coming up the stairs. Justin immediately changed his attitude, straightened out his dishevelled clothing, straightened his hair, and smiled at the astonished maid; then waltzed down the stairs into the common room. The chambermaid looked up the stairs and saw nothing. She walked up to the landing and saw the cracked slats. She halted at Euvgeni’s door. Euvgeni bathed his head in cold water.

"This rage shall be my undoing." He shook his head to clear the adrenaline rush. The maid looked in the door.

"M’lud, wot ‘as appened ‘ere?"

"An altercation. I will pay for the damages. Will you bring me a full dinner with two ales please." Her worried face relaxed and nodded .Her head disappeared from the doorway.

"So, what is this? Doing some redecorating?" Richard’s voice echoed from the corridor. Euvgeni looked up "Richard, I didn’t think you had the fortitude to be up and about on your own."

"I am not alone. I have a guest." Euvgeni looked up and Jessica had her arm looped with the bandaged one of Richard.

"Oh. I see. Good, then the two of you will join me tonight for dinner, yes?" They nodded. Euvgeni rubbed his hands he reached over to Jessica and took her free hand in his and gently raised it to his lips and caressed it. She had a serious look on her face.

"Do know what you are starting?"

"Only too well". His smiled in returned.

"Okay, okay, you two. Let’s eat; I’m starved. You know – that arena surgeon performs miracles."

"He does happen to be a priest." Jessica explained gently.

"Yes, that’s what I meant. Look at me I was flat on my back this morning. Now I’m fit as a fiddle."

They ate dinner in the common room with all of the other patrons. A hearty song and dance started up. Euvgeni got lessons on dancing from Jessica.

"I feel good." Jessica’s heart raced as Euvgeni danced with her.

"So do I. What do you think we should do about it?"

"Let it flow naturally. No sense in forcing it". Euvgeni looked around at the patrons of the inn. A moment’s sadness flitted across his face but he hid it quickly.

"What do you say to a more private evening tomorrow?"

"I think that can be arranged." She rested her head on his chest.

"Well, what do you think?" Jessica pirouetted in her evening gown – a dark blue that showed off her figure. Her hair was swept back and held by one bow at the top.

"Yummy". Euvgeni licked his lip.

"Hey, stop that! I did this for you. I don’t often wear a dress."

"I know, but what do you want me to say. If I answer your question you won’t give it full credit because you had to ask." Euvgeni reasoned.

"Hmm, maybe so, but answer me anyway...."

"My dear, the Elven Queen doesn’t hold a candle to you."

"Oh, you’ve seen her have you?" a playful look in her eyes.

"Only in my dreams" Euvgeni wistfully said.

"Ooh, you horrible man!" She smacked him on the shoulder.

"Hmm. Let’s get going before we start insulting each other." Euvgeni reached out for her hand. She folded her arm into his and snuggled up close as they walked out into the night.

"Um, you can leave the balcony door open, I’ll get in that way." Jessica turned to the butler.

"Very well madam." The butler tipped his hat and closed the entrance doors.

"Right, where are we going?" Jessica turned to Euvgeni.

"This is my treat, so I think we should go to the tavern."

She frowned and looked into his eyes, "uh Euvgeni. I wore this dress for you so let’s keep this occasion a more private affair. How about a night ride in the country?"

"Okay" Euvgeni nodded.

It was a bright night with all the stars out to greet the new couple on their night wanderings. Many hours later after they had wandered the outlying areas, they returned to the town.

"The town seems very bright tonight."

"This is not a normal thing for this time of year."

Euvgeni’s eyes widened as he remembered the same brightness at home; "something is burning".

He began to run. He ran to the crest of the hill and saw the town burning. There were fires everywhere. He looked around desperately as the townsfolk tried to put the fire out. He could see they were fighting a losing battle. He turned to see Jessica’s face as she saw the destruction occurring in the town below.

"Look, there on the right. That’s Justin and he’s holding a blazing brand! Is he mad?" She pointed at a man on a huge bay horse.

"No. He has just lost his soul as I warned him would happen". Euvgeni stood watching the destruction, a grim set to his face. "I will stop him now or this town is doomed. Jessica, go to the castle and speak to the Duke, try to convince him to stop Justin. He will destroy all that the Duke has and more; he will wipe this town off the map. You tell him this and when he asks who says this tell him that it is me and I have seen this happen before. The ones with the rage must be tempered before they are used in battle. If they are used like Justin, only ruin will result for the wielder."

"But Euv..."

"No buts!" Euvgeni turned to face her with wrath on his face his fist clenched in front of him. Jessica backed off, fear in her eyes.

"Jessica you must go now. Hurry, for the town’s sake."

She nodded, turned and ran off, hitching her dress up.

"Bring wagons with barrels when you are done."

Euvgeni ducked as a wall arch collapsed into the street. The smoke and pit of the fire had blackened him. The townsfolk were running with him to try and stop the fire. Euvgeni saw the lone horseman charging into another road. He charged off after him. As he entered the lane, the horseman stopped and turned to face him.

"I wondered when the little wild man from the south would arrive. I have been waiting for him." The rider gracefully dismounted. His face came out of the shadows. His eyes were bloodshot his face completely impassive.

"I see I am too late." Euvgeni sighed. "I had hoped to save you from this fate, but you would not listen. You will be dead in a week." Euvgeni turned to walk away.

"I would not turn my back on an armed man."

"What weapon is that?" Euvgeni said as he walked away.

"THIS!" Justin screamed. The arrow flew wide into the night sky. "NO!" he drew his sword and charged foaming at the mouth, total madness etched in his features. Euvgeni turned impassively waiting for the charge to reach him. He put out his hand. Justin slashed down. Euvgeni crouched and trapped Justin’s legs. He fell hard his head hitting the ground with a large crack. He screamed again and dove for his sword. Euvgeni grabbed Justin’s arm and leaned into Justin on the floor, slowly squeezing the life out of him. His eyes remained bloodshot as Justin’s neck bulged with the effort to breathe.

"You can’t win, wild man. I am immortal!"

"Oh no, you are very mortal and I intend to show you how mortal." Eventually Justin’s eyes glazed.

"The gods forgive me." Euvgeni took Justin’s leg in his hands and with a quick jerk snapped the tibia bone. Justin screamed in agony. His arms limp at his side as he lay in the dirt. "Now I suggest you leave this town before the townsfolk catch you." Euvgeni smiled and dusted himself off. "Good day. Lord Justin". Euvgeni turned and walked into the streets to help stop the fires.

"Your perceptions were accurate, Euvgeni. I will endeavour to see that the town is rebuilt and that Justin is held in check," the Duke said to Euvgeni from his carriage. The smouldering remains of the town hung over the town square. The haze hid the damage further out.

"You have a lot to answer to, Dukeling" Euvgeni pointed his two-handed sword at the carriage. "See that I do not have to return here to correct you again."

The Duke blanched and he shot up. "I’ll not have this from a foreigner, you are treading on thin ice, barbarian!" the Duke signalled the honour guard. They set their weapons and approached the barbarian.

"That will be your second mistake. How many more coffins do you want to bury?" Euvgeni raised the two-handed sword above his head ready to strike. "Take the warning well and do not think of threatening me. I am not your enemy. But pray that I do not decide to alter that situation." He sheathed the weapon, with one fluid motion leaped onto the warhorse, and galloped out of the haze and destruction. The guards looked at the Duke. He seethed and clenched his fists but gave them no commands to chase.

"I do not know why you bother? Really, you know that the Duke will take his own council on these matters. You have only irritated him further. Do not expect a friendly welcome here again." Jessica lectured from the saddle of her black stallion.

"Yes." Euvgeni sighed. He leaned out of the saddle grabbed her around the waist and gave her a kiss on the lips. He let go and saluted her.

"Until next we meet. I must continue my journey, there is a city called Rotan that has a group of adventurers looking for some powerful artefact."

"Will we meet again Euvgeni?" she looked into his eyes searching for something. She relaxed as she failed to find the rage.

"Yes we will. Go well, Baroness, beware the Duke he is not honourable."

Euvgeni turned his horse and charged off through the fields to great adventures...