Macius approaches respectfully.

Macius realised Endelion was way too heavy for the carefully tailored scenery, and he quickly dismounted.

"Wait here", he ordered. The horse complied, as was proper. Macius undid his helmet, his cuirass and the heavy cape. He laid his sword low, and his steel gloves. Suitably demilitarised, he looked powerful and dangerous, but non-threatening. He walked down the slope, kneeled next to the pool, bowed his head and closed his eyes, communing with the peaceful environment.

"I have come to you, fair ladies. I am yours to command, now and ever, till our Kingdoms pass from this world".

The ritual words were heartfelt. As strong as Macius was, he knew that the physical nakedness of the naiads belied their true strength, their bodies expendable, easily replaced vessels. His soul would soon be laid infinitely barer than their skin currently was.