The naiads appreciate the politeness.

One of the naiads, a lithe redhead seated upon a fine rock, bathing her tiny feet in the current while another braided her hair, made a quick sign. The others dispersed further away, going back to their games in a smaller pond. Only the three of them remained.

"Well spoken, my lord Knight. I am Elithea of the Evergreen Wood, priestess of Imarsi among the priestesses of Imarsi, grand-niece to the vizier of the land of ice. Yours is a pleasant visit, and we welcome you to the sacred paths. How can the people of the mountain help the Kingdom of the plain?"

"I do not know, my lady. My Lord, Knight-Superior Fearis, Grand Chaplain of the Royal Church, has missioned me to come and offer my strength to the mountain folks. I must bow to your superior knowledge, for I cannot say how best I could be of service. Maybe some evil dragon, some naughty troll, or other terrifying beast to be slain?"

The crystalline laugh of the priestess filled the clearing.

"Oh, my lord Knight. You indeed have lots to learn, but fear not. The Grand Chaplain honours us both by sending you here, and we will take good care of you. You will learn, for such is the way for those who come willingly to us and offer service. A fine sword, you are, made of strong steel and shining willpower."

She looked at him intently, then she gave an order.

"Naked we are, naked you should be. Undress and walk into the mountain's bounty, for this holy water will cleanse your body and soul of impurity. I demand it from you, I demand it from the mountain, I respectfully request it from our Mother Imarsi."

Macius obeyed instantly. Years of training and his feudal culture left no possibility for doubt or questioning. His soul was pledged to the mountain, as the Lady demanded through the Grand Chaplain's voice.

The cold water and nakedness brought a little unease, but he walked into the water, and at the order of the priestess, he immersed himself. He felt the cool liquid take power over him, and as he emerged again, water flowing off his body, it felt like a rebirth of sorts.

The priestess let out a surprising, happy giggle.

"Know, lord Knight, that no creature would hurt any of us naiads, and for as long as you serve us, none shall hurt you either. From the tiniest mosquito to the largest of dragons, all will hail you as a friend."

She smirked. "This, in fact, also includes those dirty little bugs that cling to some of your more... manly body parts."

Macius didn't know whether to feel offended at the dig or glad of the information. It was, truly, a gift. The bugs had been a seriously annoying frustration for the weeks since he'd picked up from a mat in the capital, as far as he could tell. Yet, standing in the cold water up to his hips, he could feel his manly body parts shrinking somewhat painfully. He wasn't about to mention it, but standing in front of beautiful ladies at such a disadvantage was relatively frustrating.