"Garalt, what is wrong?" Allamir addressed the young knight.
    "Your Majesty, I know no magic, and I'm in no shape to fight any battles now.  I would like to go home and mourn my parents."
    "Of course, you may leave whenever you wish.  But, before you go, I want you to have this.... Xanath?"

    The old wizard walked over to the table at the side of the room and picked up a shield from it, and then carried it to Garalt.
    "Our soldiers found this in the cave that Garn and Moraine spoke of before they went home to Karkos," Xanath said slowly, "It's Kullvox' shield.  We know he'd want you to have it."
    Garalt slowly took the shield from Xanath and looked it over slowly.  His heart ached for the loss of his mentor.  The Queen motioned to Xanath and Tundrock, and the three walked quietly out of the room.  Garalt looked at Alyia and then slowly leaned against her, laying his head on her shoulder.  They embraced and softly wept together.
    "I love you Garalt..." Alyia whispered, "I'll go with you when you leave for home.  I don't want to lose sight of you again."
    Garalt looked up into her eyes and tried to smile.  The two leaned closer together and kissed softly.

    Several days passed, and Garalt slowly regained his strength little by little.  After a week of being cooped up in his room, Garalt decided it was time for him to go home.  He took his cape and a cane and began to walk towards the door.  Before he could reach it, however, Alyia opened it and walked in.
    "Oh!  Garalt, you're ready to go already?"
    "Yes, but you don't have to come with me if you don't want to."
    "Garalt, there's nothing more I'd rather do.  My mother insists that Tundrock and a few knights come along with us, though."
    Garalt smiled softly and bowed to the Princess.
    "After you Milady."
    "I'll summon Tundrock, and I'll meet you in the main courtyard with your horse," she smiled.
    "No horse,"
    "Huh?"
    "I want to regain my strength, walking will be better for me."
    "All right, Garalt, but you better not get hurt, I'll be angry at you if you get hurt."
    "Yes Milady," Garalt smirked.