The Dare of Dawn (Helga)

And there it was, the woman's wand was already out as if she expected him to attack them. While some dubious souls might have, Maximus wasn't the type and thus remained relaxed and very tired, to show he meant no harm to them. He even kept his hands empty and clearly in view to both of the Ladies. In fact, his sword was still strapped to his horse for the time being and his wand was hidden in his sleeve.

Maximus was a bit surprised when Lady Hufflepuff turned back toward him instead of shrinking away in fear of him. Her proud announcement relieved him when she guessed his identity correctly this time because at least it showed his brother hadn't been lying when he said they'd be expecting him. However true that might have been though, he felt like he should apologize for starting off on the wrong foot.

"Aye, Sir Maximus Raine at yer service Lady 'ufflepuff," he said with a polite bow to her. "I feel I mus' apologize fer nay speakin' up sooner. I 'ave te admit tha' this library 'as surpassed even me wildest dreams an' shocked me. Te be surrounded by this much knowledge, te 'ave it se easily accessed, me sister would be lucky te attend. I'll be writin' te me Da' te give 'im me opinion, but I would li'e te see more o' this school o' yers if ye be agreeable? I d'nay want te cause any further trouble."

Standing there with slightly sagging shoulders and weariness on his face, Maximus looked like he might fall over sooner than take a grand tour of the castle and its grounds. He would brave through it because that's what you did when you were a knight and a soldier, you pressed on until you literally could not.