She hoped that by morning that Cecilia would be sound asleep on the spare bed, but as she awoke she knew it would not be true. Cecilia did not return during the night and Antoine had not been able to track her. Brianna blamed herself for upsetting Cecilia and felt responsible for her capture if what Antoine suggested was true. Based on their findings, if Cecilia was not in the Inn by morning, she had been abducted. Brianna had no appetite for breakfast. Not one of her companions could comfort her. Brianna moped around most of the morning and refused to talk to anyone.

Lucifer was preparing for what he claimed would be the “last” meeting with the elven leaders. He urged Brianna and the Princes to come along. Sebastien accepted the invitation readily but Antoine declined. Silvia managed to convince Brianna to go in hopes of voicing concern for Cecilia.

Brianna expected that the elven leaders would have met in elaborate halls or trees. It came as a slight surprise when they entered a barn. Glancing at Sebastien, he looked a bit surprised himself. Bales of straw were arranged in a circle. A few leaders had been conversing lightly and drinking coffee. Brianna was also mildly surprised that they drank coffee. The three elves who were there paused in their conversation and greeted Lucifer.

“You are running late today, Lux,” the elf with long dark hair said with a wry smile. He held out a cup which Lucifer declined.

“I had my fill this morning, thank you. Anything particularly urgent this morning, father?”

That gave Brianna the rudest awakening ever. She stared with wide eyes of disbelief. An expression that Sebastien likewise mimicked.

“You brought guests,” noted a quiet elf. Her skin was tan and her eyes misty.

“So I have. I present to the council the younger prince of Pravignon and the Lady Brianna of Mount Carmel,” Lucifer motioned towards them as if just now remembering that they were here. “Brianna, Sebastien these are some of the leaders of the emergency council, Dwyn, my father-in-law and leader of the largest tribe of Twynd, Afanen governess of many Nemnos villages in Pravignon. And this is Kaina, a general and manager of relations between Lucior and Valia. Our representative from Valia has already returned home and a few of the other Luminen generals have duties to tend to. Are we expecting anyone else?”

“Only the Lady Charlotte from Horen. She’s always late,” Dwyn smirked again. “It’s a pleasure to meet you two. A drink?”

“No thanks,” Brianna squeaked.

Dwyn laughed pleasantly and invited them to sit. Brianna took a seat beside Sebastien and Afanen. Lucifer left to speak more to Dwyn about the general health of Silvia and the trouble Glaraphim had been causing. Uncomfortably, Brianna looked around and at Sebastien. He finally took notice of all of Brianna’s staring.

“It’s all right, we’ll be able to tell them about Cecilia soon. They aren’t as pompous as some people think,” Sebastien tried to smile reassuringly.

Brianna looked worried and hoped Sebastien was right.

Lady Charlotte bustled in with her cheeks red and puffed from running.

“Sorry, my lords, the sun got up before I did…again,” she laughed.

Dwyn shook his head smiling and offered her a cup which she accepted gratefully.

“Now that we are all here, we can commence our meeting,” Kaina declared and shut the barn doors.

Brianna squeeze Sebastien’s hand for comfort as the building became dark, smelly and stuffy.

“So, you have some news for us, Prince of Pravignon?” Dwyn spoke up, lighting a lamp to banish some of the dark.

“To be more specific, one of the Ladies of Mount Carmel has more information. But as luck would have it she is missing, we fear abducted,” Sebastien explained.

“Another dead end?” Afanen muttered.

“I hope not. I do remember some of the information she held. She has seen the Weapon and confirmed our suspicions of someone as agent, but it might not be Ignac,” Lucifer said in their defense. “As I mentioned before the Ladies arrived at my home near the “Watch” two days ago. “

“The lady that is missing…which lady is it?” Kaina snapped impatiently.

“The Lady Cecilia,” Lucifer clarified.

“Then why did you bring the other lady? Was she witness too?”

“I was!” Brianna snapped, seizing everyone’s attention. “I saw the dragon thing leave. I didn’t know where I was at the time, but I did see it.”

“We all saw it,” Kaina said impatiently. “What we need is new news!”

“We have a name,” Sebastien cut in.

That silenced Kaina for a bit.

“Cecilia claims she heard one of the agents address the other as Columbo. The only man by that name that I know of is the Abbot,” Sebastien nodded towards Lady Charlotte.

Charlotte shifted uneasily. “I have not spoken to the abbot for a long time. I know the monastery has been scrapping by. Last time I conversed with him he was begging for more property and funds. But I did not have authority over those lands at the time. The Baron Peregrine owned that property so I suggested that he talk to him.”

“That is a bit of evidence we could have used yesterday,” Kaina grumbled. “As usual, our information comes a step too late.”

“What about Cecilia?” Brianna asked.

“We can discuss her later,” Kaina growled. “More importantly would be the task of locating this abbot and possibly interrogating him. Horen may have more to hide.”

“There’s no need to be rude about it,” Charlotte scolded. “It is not all of Horen that is to blame. Only one of its citizens. I wish you would not lump us all together, General.”

Kaina opened his mouth for a rebuttal but Dwyn spoke first.

“That’s enough of that. We all agree there is nothing we can do about the dragon at this time. Pointing the blame finger will do us no good. Columbo may come from anywhere, but if we assume that it is a Horen citizen then maybe that will offer us a place to look for more evidence.”

“Evidence will do little good, who knows how quickly the Dragon will be equipped and start its rampage,” Afanen suddenly spoke in a loud commanding voice. “Finding this girl may be something more useful this council can do. If she has been abducted then by who? I have been silent all morning but I fear I may have found a spy of Ignac snooping around Iyad. This must be our last meeting, they are starting to smell us out.”

“Ignac! Here?” Lucifer exclaimed. “They would not dare trespass into these lands so far from their own. They would have to cut through Horen which as far as I know is not their ally.”

“Regardless, I do not know who he was looking for or what but he was looking,” Afanen reaffirmed.

“Do you think he could have kidnapped Cecilia?” Brianna asked desperately.

“I would not see a reason why he would. Ignac would have sent a ransom note. That is their custom,” Lucifer tried to sound convincing.

“Ignac has been acting strange as of late. There might be internal conflict of interest with the higher authorities,” Dwyn noted. “There as been nothing aggressive in their actions until this dragon weapon showed up.”

“Then can we count on any assistance with finding Cecilia?” Sebastien asked.

“Twynd can offer some help through my daughter,” Dwyn smiled.

“I do not wish to put Silvia in any more danger than she already is,” Lucifer said darkly.

“You know she won’t stand for it.”

“I am not losing another child because of her recklessness,” Lucifer said firmly, which brought Dwyn to silence.

“We can alert border patrols,” Kaina suggested.

“What good are they?” Charlotte complained. “It’s just more elves snooping about. Perhaps it would be more constructive to invent the means necessary to provide defense against the Weapon or a way to destroy it.”

“Valia has begun part of that project as has Twynd,” Kaina barked back. “All we can do for this girl is gather a search party. Does the Prince of Pravignon have any further concerns?”

“No, sir, Pravignon trusts the council. We only plead that assistance will come at our call.”

“You have the aid of the Nemnos Villages within your region,” Afanen assured him with a warm smile.

“Lucior also offers whatever resources it can offer,” Lucifer added.

“My daughter will do what she can for you and Twynd can offer sanctuary for you and your brother if you wish to hide,” Dwyn offered.

“Pravignon accepts your generosity and will travel towards Twynd upon the finding of Lady Cecilia.”

“I have a better plan for you,” Kaina said with a bit less scorn than before.

Lucifer lead Brianna and Sebastien back to Iyad. The meeting had been much shorter than usual and it was to be the last.

“Dwyn will accompany us to Twynd where we will stay for awhile. Wyn Elves are excellent trackers and we have a few more clues.”

“I would like to find Abbot Columbo,” Sebastien mentioned. “If anything but to prove his innocence or guilt.”

“What difference would that make?” Brianna argued. “It won’t stop the dragon from attacking.”

“It might lead us to know where the dragon will attack first.”

“Enough talk, we don’t want unwanted ears to hear us,” Lucifer ended the discussion.

There was a whirl of excitement back at the Green Rooster. Glaraphim was the first to greet them upon their return, babbling incoherently about a visitor and a message from Cecilia. Without hesitating, Brianna bounded up the stairs and burst into the room where Silvia sat with Antoine and an elf Brianna had not seen before.

The elf was tall, dark and very lovely. Her dark hair gave a bluish shimmer in the lamp light and curled elegantly about her shoulders. Her eyes were equally dark and mysterious. Her outfit was adorn with baubles and jewels, clearly showing that she was not a common elf. She stared at Brianna calmly when she burst through the door.

“Oh! The meeting is over now? Is Luki back?” Silvia inquired.

“Yeah,” Brianna gasped. She had forgotten to breath while she ran.

“Your husband is with you?” the elf asked in a voice that fell from her lips like honey.

“Shu-shu! Yes, Luki is with me today. Where are your children? Did you not bring them?”

“No, I am here on official business. They are home with my mother.”

“Oh, I should introduce you! Brianna this is Nali, Lady of Valon. She’s been a good friend of mine for the past few years. You disappeared for a long time and you came back with children. Very scandalous, I’m so jealous. The only thing I ever did was leave my husband…for a good reason,” Silvia pouted playfully.

“If I were free to tell you of my adventures I would, but as things stand it would put your family and mine in grave danger. But if Lucifer is here now, he has a message,” Nali said to Brianna.

“He’s just downstairs, he’ll be up shortly, I guess,” Brianna said, sinking onto a free chair.

“How was the council meeting?” Antoine asked curiously.

“Horrible. I don’t want to talk about it.”

Silvia giggled and Nali smiled kindly.

“You must have learned of the irritable tempers of some leaders,” Nali said.

Brianna nodded.

After a few more words of small talk, Lucifer arrived with Glaraphim dangling off his neck.

“Mom! Mom! We’re gonna visit grandpa! Dad said so!” Glaraphim announced.

“Lady of Valon? To what do we owe the…ooof…honor?” Lucifer asked, trying to free himself from Glaraphim at the same time.

“I bear a message from Ignac,” Nali smiled coyly as the room fell to stunned silence.

“From Ignac?” Lucifer asked quietly.

From the folds of her garment, Nali withdrew a roll of paper which she began to read.

“To whom this concerns, friends of the Lady Cecilia. Fear not for the safety of the lady, for she has consented to this arranged travel with an Ignian of great importance. She requests that she is not followed. From the Lord of Flames.”

“Lord of Flames? Is that what he calls himself now? That bloody, uppity son of a…”

“Luki! The children!” Silvia cut in before Lucifer could continue to curse the name.

“Who is the Lord of Flames?” Brianna asked, hoping she was not offending anyone.

“Aidern!” Lucifer barked.

“Lucifer Felix Lux!” Silvia’s voice became stern. “Mind your temper!”

Lucifer stormed from the room to cool off.

“He took that surprisingly well,” Nali smirked.

Silvia still looked livid, but agreed. “He behaves worse than a child sometimes. I’m ashamed to call him husband. It’s like some stupid sibling rivalry…except they’re not related.”

“So, Cecilia is safe?” Brianna asked.

“Hardly,” Antoine said gruffly. “Ignac is a dangerous place and Aidern a dangerous individual, all prejudice aside. He is the son of the High General and one of their more deadly commanders. He’s clever, or so I’ve been told. Cunning as a fox and charming as a snake, a good match for the Viper.”

“Why do you keep calling her that?” Sebastien sighed. “Cecilia is…”

“In trouble!” Brianna interrupted. “She probably thought she could help somehow. Maybe she went with him to throw him off our trail! Oh what are we going to do?”

Antoine frowned and became thoughtful. Brianna was distressed over this clearly and there could only be one thing to calm her.

“I will go after her,” Antoine volunteered to everyone’s surprise.

“But the letter says…”

“Like Brianna suggested, it is a trick to throw us off the trail.”

“Then how would he know to send the message here? If he was looking for us and he…knew…” Sebastien became quiet. “We should leave soon. If Aidern knows where we are he will send someone to kill us. This message may be to get our guard down.”

“We’ll be okay won’t we Mommy?” Glaraphim asked timidly.

“Of course, we’re not going to stay here much longer.”

“If you wish to hunt her down, you may come with me,” Nali said. “I will travel along that way to return home and offer you what help I can.”

“I am honored for you assistance, my lady,” Antoine said with a grateful bow.

“What about us, Twon? We should stick together,” Sebastien said.

“You can protect Brianna,” Antoine said with a sly wink.

Sebastien turned red and growled at Antoine.

“Sounds like a plan. Now, I’m going to fetch Mr. McSulky and tell him the news,” Silvia said, struggling to her feet.

“Take care,” Nali warned, assisting Silvia to the door.

“I can make it. I’m not that old,” she laughed and waddled down the stairs.

“You must prepare yourself for travel. We shall leave tomorrow in the morning,” Nali ordered Antoine.

Antoine nodded his head and left the room to begin preparations.

Why am I doing this? Antoine thought angrily as he scrounged the room for his clothes and bags.

This could turn into a suicide mission. Traveling towards Ignac now is insane. I hope Brianna realizes what I’m doing for her, Antoine continued to grumble. Thoughts of Brianna softened his attitude. Her expression had been so hopeful and so glad that it nearly caused his heart to burst.

He had been so caught up in his fantasies that he did not notice Nali standing in the doorway until she cleared her throat for attention.

“My lady!”

“Silence young prince. I have questions for you,” Nali said with such authority, Antoine stood a bit straighter.

“This Cecilia woman, does she have any powers? Does she have any of the talents of which Lucifer boasted?”

Antoine frowned, “Cecilia. She is feisty, like a scrappy puppy that will bark and bite but cause minimal damage. She is well-educated as far as I know and clever. I believe she can fend for herself to some extent. But, she has no elven powers or gifts of any kind.”

Nali hummed in replied and looked thoughtful, “So, she could not be one of the Prophesied.”

“Cecilia? One of the prophecy? Come on!”

“The way Lucifer boasted has started rumors. But if she can not prove it then there is little to fear.”

“Would Aidern kill her?” Antoine asked.

Nali stood silently considering an answer, “I do not rightly know. Long has it been since I last had contact with the Prince of Flames.”

“Didn’t he send you?”

“Not directly. I was contacted by one of his underlings. One of my relatives actually.”

“Your relatives are involved with Ignac? Why?” Antoine demanded, growing suspicious.

“Not all Ignians are your enemy, Lord Prince. There are rumors of a coup in motion. Now, you will have to excuse me. I have traveled far to get here and need my rest.”

Nali left like a shadow with only her faint scent remaining. Antoine smiled with a crooked grin. Nali was a lovely creature despite her age. She was a fine woman and her company would be pleasant for the journey. Although their discussion was grim, it did not seem so when she spoke.

It was so warm and comfortable here. It almost moved Cecilia into a rage when Aidern prodded her awake.

“Up, up! There’s no time to dawdle. We have to outrun the storm.”

Cecilia groaned and gingerly pushed herself upright, “Storm?”

“As in bad weather,” Aidern clarified. “I want to reach my estate by noon.”

“Fine, fine,” Cecilia grumbled, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

She pulled on her jacket and struggled to her feet, but her legs would not support her weight. Frantically she tried again to rise, but there was no feeling.

“I can’t move!”

“What?”

“I can’t feel my legs. What have you done?” Cecilia accused darkly.

Aidern innocently poked at her thigh and tapped her knee. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Cecilia started when he snapped his fingers.

“Aha! I crushed your legs last night when I sat on you. Must have pinched a nerve or something. Sorry about that.”

“You don’t sound very sorry,” Cecilia growled.

“This actually works very well for me. It should keep you from running off,” Aidern smirked hoisting Cecilia unceremoniously from the pile of pillows.

“Off we go!”

“Put me down now! I swear I’ll chew your ears off.”

“Oh don’t tease now,” Aidern giggled.

“I hate you!” Cecilia screamed, pounding her fists against his back.

Her little fists did little to stop Aidern from doing much of anything. Cecilia hated to admit it but she was completely in his control. He carried her to a horse that was ready for travel. Once more she was straddled in front of him and the guards from the night before offered encouragement and other obscene suggestions to their leader. Aidern laughed along with them and left them with minor orders. They were off again to a destination Cecilia knew nothing about. She fretted about Brianna. She would be horribly worried by now, even if the message arrived.

The ride was slowly making the feeling return to her legs. Cecilia had been thoughtfully quiet for a long stretch of time. Aidern had been too quiet. Her instincts were bristled against him. There was no reason to trust him and no reason to stay with him. Now that her legs could move again, Cecilia suddenly made her move.

Gripping the horn of the saddle, Cecilia kicked the animal in the sides causing the horse to startle and buck. Aidern struggled for mere seconds to control the horse and keep Cecilia on. Cecilia rolled onto her feet after hitting the ground with great force. She could already feel the bruises form on her ribs and her arm, but she made herself run.

Aidern called after her, but she did not heed him. Cecilia wanted to put as much distance between Aidern and herself as possible. She could hear the horse’s hooves thunder after her. Cecilia dashed into a wood of dead trees, zigzagging through the branches and glancing over her shoulder. The horse was riderless. Where was Aidern?

Her foot made contact with empty air and she fell forward seeing a rocky ground rushing up to meet her. Her arm was nearly jerked out of its socket and her falling was stopped. Cecilia gasped for air, afraid to look up, knowing well that Aidern had been the one to stop her fall. He was breathing hard, straining to keep his grip on her.

“Plant your feet onto the wall,” he ordered through gritted teeth.

Cecilia obeyed trying not to swing too much.

“Take my hand now and walk up here.”

Without much effort, Aidern pulled Cecilia back up onto solid ground.

“What were you thinking?” Aidern scolded sternly. “Did I not promise you that I would not hurt you. ”

“Then why did you crush my legs?” Cecilia snapped back. Her whole body was shaking and all her courage seemed to drain. Tears came unbidden and she choked on a sob.

Gently, she felt Aidern’s arms embrace her and heard him softly mumbling comfort into her ears. She hated him for it. How dare he! How dare he save her from falling and try to trick her with kindness.

Roughly she pushed him away. Aidern sat on his haunches and blew at his stray hair.

“You are just not going to trust me are you? Ah…well, I suppose I haven’t given you much of a reason to,” he said as if the thought just occurred to him.

Oh how she wanted to knock him out. Cecilia rubbed her arms and settled down her crying. Aidern chuckled sheepishly, “The leg crushing was an accident, honest. You just don’t realize the nature of Ignian soldiers. I can’t exactly leave you out here alone. If a scout found you, that’d be the end for you. Whether you like it or not, you have to stay with me.”

Cecilia glared at him stubbornly. Aidern scratched his head and concentrated.

“Fine, we won’t ride the horse, we can walk if you prefer. That way we won’t be touching. How does that sound?”

A roll of thunder sounded overhead with a warning. Aidern swore softly and looked at Cecilia earnestly, “Answer me quickly. It’s still quite a ways before we reach the safety of my house. We can find you some better company there.”

Cecilia rubbed her eyes on her sleeve. “I’ll ride the horse, I hurt my ankle.”

“Fair enough,” Aidern lifted her over his shoulder again, jogged towards the horse, and set Cecilia into the saddle.

Clicking his tongue he urged the horse to trot next to him, through the trees and back onto the trail. Once in the open, rain started to fall. Aidern swore vehemently and the horse complained. Cecilia secretly reveled in his suffering.

“This sky is not promising,” Nali grumbled as she waited for Antoine to finish conversations. She did not particularly favor Lucifer knowing so much. It would put Silvia in danger. She did trust that Silvia’s family could keep them quiet for a time. Twynd was no threat to anyone. However, Lucifer being there would draw attention as would the presence of Sebastien. Had Cecilia not been there, the princes might have been dead this morning. Nali frowned while lost in her thoughts.

“Are you well, my lady? Your expression is severe,” Antoine announced his arrival.

Nali glanced up at him critically, but said nothing. She moved towards the stable to call her animal.

“The weather will turn on us soon,” she said stiffly. “Everything is settled between yourself and your brother?”

“Yes. Yes, all is well. They are going to start moving soon.”

“Good. We are going on a round-about route for your protection.”

Antoine nodded but grew stern himself. Nali openly admitted involvement with Ignac and its Prince. She probably knew more than she was going to tell him. It was easy to hide his mistrust under a pleasant and naïve disposition. Antoine mounted his horse and waited for Nali to lead on. They left Iyad behind and veered off the main road after a few miles. The farther they went the darker the sky grew.

The horse kept shaking her mane and whipping Cecilia in the face. The rain came down very heavy and the blanket she had thrown over her head was already soaked through and heavy. Aidern marched onward without giving much regard to the rain. The air was heavy with moisture and muggy. Steam was rising off the horse’s coat and Aidern’s shoulders.

It was mid-afternoon by the time they reached a barren volcanic area. Everything was steaming making the area look haunted. The horse snorted and her step quickened. They had reach familiar ground. Aidern halted and motioned for Cecilia to come down.

“We’ve arrived,” he said evenly, removing the saddle from the animal. The horse trotted off obviously knowing it was home. Cecilia looked about herself in confusion. This was not what she imagined a villa to be like. She followed Aidern to a fissure where he shoved in a key. Trails of light glowed and a door swung open. Aidern stepped to the side and motioned her inside.

The home was constructed into the volcano’s core which had been hollowed out eons ago.

“Nice and warm, eh? Let’s get into some dry clothes and some food. You’ll have your own room and a maid to help you. When you’re ready to talk we can. Although I encourage you to speak with me swiftly. There will be a time when words will prove useless,” Aidern said ushering Cecilia into the hall.

Cecilia heard the sound of feet pounding from above. Suddenly from around one of the corners, a young, dark skinned she-elf with fire-orange hair burst out and tackled Aidern’s midsection.

“DADDY!” she cried out.

“Daddy, you’re all wet. Didja get caught in the rain again? Didja bring mommy with you this time? Huh, huh? Daddy who’s this?” the girl rambled.

Aidern lifted her effortlessly and set her on his hip.

“Clementa, this is Cecilia. Cecilia, this is my little girl, Clementa,” Aidern introduced with a proud grin.

Cecilia could not help but glower at him. That low-life! How could he be a father? He was so obscene and irresponsible!

“She looks mad, Daddy,” Clementa mentioned.

“Well, we had a bit of a fight last night. We had to stay at one of Grandpa’s camps and the soldiers aren’t very nice there,” Aidern explained rubbing his forehead against hers.

Clementa sighed, hopped down off her father and faced Cecilia with her hands on her hips.

“Was Daddy being bad?”

Cecilia blinked and considered this answer very carefully.

“Yes,” she blurted.

Clementa then turned around and smacked Aidern on the backside.

“Mommy said you have to behave yourself,” she scolded.

Aidern made a face of mock remorse and fell to his knees.

“Oh don’t tell mommy, please,” he begged in the most ridiculous fashion.

Cecilia wanted to be annoyed but was instead highly amused by their relationship. She smirked a bit.

Clementa seemed like she would be strict with her father and ordered him to go to his room. Aidern ruffled her hair and said he would after talking with Grandma.

“And we have to get Cecilia dried off before she gets sick,” Aidern explained, now returning to his normal disposition.

An older, dark skinned she-elf appeared and greeted Aidern. Clementa went calmly to her side.

“I will tend to your guest, Lord Aidern. Nali has warned me that there are military movements.”

Aidern growled, “There is? So soon? Where are they headed?”

“Telras for now.”

Aidern looked slightly relieved, “Then he still trusts the fate of Pravignon to me, for now. Good. Thank you, Mama. How…how is she?”

The elder she-elf shrugged, “She is hard for me to read at times. She does her duty without complaint.”

Aidern knitted his brows together and looked disappointed, “She…she didn’t ask about me, did she? Is she angry with me?”

Again she shrugged, “You know how she feels about your plans and she supports you. But you should listen to her more often. You know it’s too early to assassinate the heirs of Pravignon. You are getting too antsy. Now go on…I believe Clementa has you confined to your room.”

Aidern chuckled and nodded, “I’ll have to make up for that one. Although, I still feel constrained for time.”

“I understand you do. Go take care of yourself, you look like a wreck.”

Aidern bowed and left. Cecilia felt awkward about the situation now. Perhaps Aidern was not as bad as she suspected. He had a family to care for and they obviously meant the world to him. Yet how could he even pretend to…she shook her head. She did not want to think about it. How could he be so crass?

“Cecilia is it? You may call me Mala. Please follow me,” the elder elf said.

Cecilia found it easy to comply now. Clementa tagged along curiously, politely holding back a flood of questions. Cecilia was pretty sure Clementa would be more honest than Aidern.

After a meal and warm bath, Cecilia settled into a chamber and changed into some dry clothes. Clementa poked her head in after awhile. Cecilia suspected she would and was glad she did. Shyly, Clementa made her way across the room.

“Did you want something?” Cecilia asked.

Clementa took a deep breath and said, “Are you going to help my daddy?”

“I don’t know if I can really,” Cecilia grumbled and rubbed her arm. “I don’t know what I could possibly do. I’m not a soldier or a general or anything.”

Clementa tipped her head to the side, “You ARE the Cecilia everyone talks about aren’t you? The one that defeated Lucifer?”

“I didn’t defeat him,” Cecilia said defensively. “I was just able to run away and find help. That’s not defeating anyone. Father Andy was the one who did something, not me.”

“You know, my dad’s the son of the High General. And if grandpa ever found out about mommy, we’d all be dead. Dad’s been trying to hide us for years.”

“How…how many years?”

“I’m almost twelve now.”

“Twelve years! That long? That’s…honestly quite impressive to be able to hide a child for so long.”

“It’s getting harder. I have a brother too. He’s in Valia right now with Mommy.”

“God, it’s like a divorced family or something,” Cecilia muttered. She shook her head. “I still can’t help. I don’t really trust your father. He claimed he was going to kill my friends and…” she left the sentence hanging, figuring it was not all together appropriate to tell Clementa of her father’s escapades last night.

“Kill your friends? Who are they? Do you mean the Princes?”

“Yeah, you know about them?”

“Ch! Everyone does. Some think they’re the Ones of the Prophecy. But that’s silly.”

“It’s a silly reason to want to kill them.”

“Well, they’re also helping Lucifer and Lucifer should be dead too. He’s very dangerous and now he’s a leader again. Dad doesn’t want to fight a war involving those three and especially not against Lucifer.”

“I guess they have a past then,” Cecilia muttered. “Well, I don’t know what he thinks I can do, but I swear if he sits on me again I’ll…”

Clementa smiled coyly as if she knew what had gone on the night before.

“Dad can be rough when he wants his way. Only Mom can get him to calm down. She hasn’t been here for awhile now,” Clementa pouted a bit. “Dad sometimes has to pretend he has other wives so Grandpa doesn’t know about us. Grandpa wants another heir besides Dad.”

Cecilia was amazed at how well informed Clementa was for her age. She was starting to get a clearer idea of the situation. Perhaps she could give Aidern one more chance.

Cecilia sighed, “You can’t trust I’ll be very helpful…but I will try…for your sake.”

Clementa smiled, “Great. I’ll tell daddy he can come out of his room then. He has a meeting room downstairs. You can talk there.”

Cecilia had the sneaking suspicion that Aidern may have put his daughter up to this, but it was amazing how well-informed Clementa was about her father. They did not keep secrets between each other.

Aidern was pleasantly surprised when Cecilia agreed to meet with him. He had spread a map out on a large table for Cecilia’s benefit and pointed out key locations and troop movements.

“Currently, Telras is our ally. The Dragon, Ferrium, is currently in Telras for mechanical work. Supposedly, my father made a deal with Horen to resurrect the weapon and use it again. Last time it was used, it backfired on us and nearly destroyed Telras. The country is still recovering. The cause of the malfunction is blamed largely on interference from the Lucior-Pravignon alliance. Is all this clear?”

“Yes, I understand. What is it you want from me?” Cecilia asked wearily.

Aidern spread his hands onto the table and leaned over glaring at Cecilia earnestly.

“I want your help stealing Ferrium back.”

Cecilia’s eyebrows shot up and her mouth opened and closed wordlessly.

“Ferrium is a key power that my Father, the High General is using against our enemies, Lucior and Pravignon. And perhaps Valia as well. Ferrium lowers the chance of our own casualties but multiplies the enemy’s.”

“A weapon of mass destruction.”

“Precisely. It’s original design was to control it from the inside. The problem happened when someone tampered with the elf-stone core, the fuel source. The weapon went on rampage and killed any pilot inside. As of now, Ferrium runs on an automated system. It listens only to someone from Pravignon, Horen, or Lucior.”

“So…a traitor from Horen made a deal with your father to help use the dragon? This traitor you could say rules both Telras and Ignac.”

“You could say that. Which is why I want to steal it. If I could control Ferrium, I could dethrone my father and assume leadership of Telras and Ignac. With that position I would be able to stop the planned battles.”

Cecilia sighed and rubbed her temple.

“I still don’t know what you think I can do.”

“You have Lucifer’s trust and the trust of Pravignon. Not only that you wield a certain level of authority for past deeds. There is even rumor you may be one of the Prophesied. But aside from that, with your position, you would be able to gain access to an elf-stone that will make Ferrium function as planned. Not only that…I would trust you to pilot it.”

Aidern’s face was taut and his muscles tensed. Cecilia was not sure what to make of this. It was definitely something over her head and even dangerous. The question was: was it worth it?

“I understand what you are offering, Lord Aidern. But all I want to do is find a way home. I want to go back to my own life. I don’t want to be a part of this war and possibly die.”

“Is that your price then?” Aidern asked flatly, still staring intensely.

Cecilia trembled and bit on her lip. “Are you saying…you know of a Tempus Milites? A Time Guardian?”

“Like Father Andrew Watcher?” Aidern smirked almost sinisterly.

Cecilia’s jaw dropped, “You know Father Andy?”

“Rumors only. I can look into it. However, I can not give up resources to search for him until I have what I need. I need every loyal elf I can find on my side at this time.”

Cecilia’s gaze dropped to the floor and she knitted her eyebrows. This was the path laid before her. It was based on a rumor. Still, if there was a chance Father Andrew was here, there was a chance to go home. Was it worth it? This was dangerous.

“I will consider your offer, when you tell me what I would have to do,” Cecilia demanded, trying to sound confident.

Aidern clapped his hands, making Cecilia jump.

“Here is what I have planned…”

The road had grown muddy and miserable. Nali kept them at a grueling pace. Their destination was kept from Antoine, so he was prepared for a trap. Every so often, Nali would ask a question or two about Cecilia or Brianna. Antoine gave elusive answers to most, unwilling to give information unless Nali was more willing to give him some.

“How intelligent is she?” Nali asked after dragging Antoine through some miserable wetlands.

“Pretty damn intelligent. Why do you keep asking?”

“Because I’m afraid she might be involved in a plot,” Nali frowned warningly.

“Plot…what kind of plot?”

“One that would very well put her life in great danger and may make her your enemy.”

“Your words are vague, my lady. Something tells me you do not want to reveal the details.”

“All I know is that it would be best to retrieve her before she gets too involved. You should take her to your homeland. For I will tell you, it is in danger.”

“You know of an attack?” Antoine urged his horse to stop in front of Nali’s.

“I have heard wind of one. Either Pravignon or Sereenis’la will be attacked first. You should warn your father quickly.”

“We will need help from Lucior,” Antoine said flatly. “How soon is the attack? Will our allies reach us in time?”

“I don’t know,” Nali said firmly, glowering at Antoine. “I can not betray much information to you.”

“Why not? Valia is an ally.”

“Pravignon is not my ally. My husband is Ignian,” Nali growled fiercely.

Antoine blinked in surprise and grew silent. They moved on for a few more miles until they came to a small military encampment.

“These are Valian soldiers. They will protect us from any Ignian business,” Nali said darkly.

Antoine nodded, not wanting to further upset Nali. Right now, he wanted to dry off and fill his belly, both might be denied if Nali grew angry at him. Antoine curried his horse, lost in thoughts. He hoped this was the right thing to do. He had not detected any traps, but he knew there would be little sleep to be had. In the morning, they would continue onwards.

In the morning, Cecilia had given Aidern her answer. Mala fitted Cecilia into a new outfit for the day. Part of her was sad that she would not be able to stay with Lord Aidern and his family. The elf was charming. It could be a trick, but it was an enjoyable feeling. Enjoyable almost to make her a little jealous that Aidern was already married.

She admired herself in a full-length mirror. The outfit left little to the imagination, but she felt it did make her bust a little fuller. Cecilia smirked at herself. Normally she would not be caught dead in an outfit like this, but it did not hurt to show off every once in awhile.

Clementa seemed to wear clothes of the same fashion. Cecilia guessed that it was culturally acceptable to show off skin. She spent most of the day with Clementa and the horses. The young elf chattered and gossiped, filling Cecilia in on the details of daily life and other amusing stories. Cecilia shared what stories she could with Clementa. Soon, she was wearied.

“I’m going inside for a nap,” Cecilia yawned.

Clementa giggled and nodded. “Go ahead, I can do something else on my own. I should probably get some schoolwork done.”

Cecilia returned to her room and curled up behind the drawn curtains of the bed. She fell asleep without much trouble.

Antoine caught glimpses of sleep during the night. His ears were straining for any intruders or assassins. Morning came without an incident, but Antoine lost a night of sleep. It was infuriating. Nali pushed him back onto the trail at an unforgiving pace. There were no questions today. It seemed as if Nali had made her mind up about something.

“I am taking you to one of Aidern’s lairs. It is the most likely place for him to hide Cecilia. My husband has found ways into this place, so we should be able to enter undetected, steal Cecilia and return to the Valian camp. Then we shall part ways,” Nali recited her orders. Antoine stifled another yawn, half-listening.

They stopped their horses at the edge of a dead forest. Nali’s horse trotted off as if it were on familiar ground. Antoine let his own horse follow. He watched the animals for a moment before following after Nali’s eager pace. They wandered toward a dormant volcano. Nali looked around and tapped a few places with her walking stick.

“This way,” she whispered, and started climbing the rock face. She pulled open what looked like a vent for air that was not natural. Nali slide in, so Antoine followed blindly.

Here they were, inside Aidern’s lair. They had crawled through into the kitchens. A home in a volcano, Antoine wondered to himself. Nali took a minute to get her bearings. She motioned towards a closet where she shoved Antoine and let herself in. Antoine’s mind became quickly fogged with the chill of this meat storage and the warmth of Nali’s body.

“Listen to me carefully. There is a chance that Aidern is still here. If you should come across him do NOT confront him, whatever you do. Run, run away and I shall come to your aide.”

“Are you insane? If Aidern is here, it’s the perfect opportunity to capture him,” Antoine argued back.

Nali’s seized Antoine’s collar roughly, “You do not have the power to subdue him. Our objective is to retrieve Cecilia. That is all we’ll have time for. I can only distract Aidern. I can not stop him. And you…you are not strong enough.”

Antoine was about to reply to her belittling comment when she covered his mouth.

“Try to find some stairs and bed rooms. Cecilia might be in there. Understood?”

Antoine glared, but nodded so that Nali would release him.

Hesitantly, Nali let Antoine go, “Move quickly and quietly. Try not to be seen. And do not kill anyone. Most of the people here are merely Aidern’s concubines.”

Antoine snorted in disgust but agreed. Nali opened the door and started leading the way. They parted ways as Antoine started leaping up stairs.

This is bloody brilliant. Why am I doing this? Ugh…come on Antoine…a knight of the Rose is suppose to do this. Cecilia counts as a lady…I guess, Antoine tried to encourage himself. Most of the rooms up here were empty. He was seriously wondering where Nali was and if he should look for her. He could not shake the feeling that Nali might betray him.

A soft moan came from one of the doors. Antoine’s mouth twitched into a smirk. It might be one of the concubines. He pressed his ear against the door, but it was silent. Carefully, he tried opening the door. Success! It was unlocked. Antoine slide into the room and partially shut the door. The room was well lit with red and gold lamps with smoldering incense burning. It was giving Antoine a bit of a headache. The bed was surrounded by a sheer curtain through which he could see the form of a woman sleeping. Antoine felt his throat go dry and his body grow warmer. Carefully he parted the curtain, for a quick glimpse at this concubine.

His eyes went wide and he startled at the sound of someone approaching. From the sound of it, they were a man’s footsteps. Frantically, Antoine’s eyes searched for a hiding place. Instinct made him jump behind the curtains, which he instantly regretted. It was the worst possible place to hide. You could see through the curtain. However, that was not Antoine’s only regret.

A sharp pain shot through his left shoulder making him yelp. He turned quickly towards the concubine to try and calm her. His face was met with a small, but well aimed fist knocking him off the bed.

“Get out! Get out! Get out!” bellowed a familiar voice.

Antoine tried to identify himself, but there was too much blood in his mouth and Cecilia was still kicking.

The door opened and bright light spilled into the room as Aidern barged in with a blazing sword.

“Stand back! Knave! On your feet…you can stop kicking him, Cecilia.”

Shit! Shit! Shit! Antoine panicked. This was it. He was cornered and trapped. Aidern, Prince of Flames, was standing before him, fending for Cecilia and blocking the only exit. Antoine spat out the blood and tried to think of a way out of this.

“On your feet, you son of a whore! Cecilia, are you all right?” Aidern asked quickly.

Cecilia was breathing hard, but managed to answer. “I am fine, Lord Aidern. I can deal with creeps.”

Lord Aidern? Lord Aidern? What was going on? Where was Nali? Had she betrayed him? Did she make this trap? How stupid! He fell for it hook, line and sinker. Antoine proudly staggered to his feet. If he was going to die, he might as well die with dignity.

Antoine glared severely at Aidern, who’s expression changed to one of surprise.

“The Heir of Pravignon? What are you doing here? How did you find this place?” Aidern demanded holding the blade tip against Antoine’s collar bone.

“Antoine?” Cecilia remarked in surprise, finally recognizing him.

“I came for the Lady Cecilia,” Antoine answered. “With the aide of the Lady of Valon.”

Aidern’s eyes went wide for a moment before he roughly pinned Antoine against the bedpost.

“What have you done to the Lady of Valon?” Aidern snarled like an animal. “Where is she?”

Antoine struggled to breathe and find words.

“No use…you’ll just have to kill me, you bloodthirsty heathen,” Antoine challenged boldly.

Aidern grinned diabolically, “As you wish your majesty.”

“Don’t!” Cecilia intervened. “Don’t kill him.”

Aidern looked at her critically, “Then what do you suggest I do with him, my sweet?”

Cecilia’s mind raced in a panic. This was bad. Very bad. This is what she was afraid would happen.

“You don’t need to kill him. You have me. He doesn’t know anything,” she pleaded.

“Knowing the location of my villa is something I can not afford my enemies to have. Next thing you know, he will bring Lucifer here.”

“Lord of Flames, drop your sword!” commanded a powerful female’s voice.

Without hesitation Aidern dropped the sword and turned toward the voice with a face full of delighted surprise.

“You may have me in exchange for the Prince.”

“L-lady…”.

“It is fair. Send your little mistress with him. You trust her, do you not. She will keep him silent,” Nali continued in her velvety voice.

Aidern swallowed hard and glanced at Cecilia. His eyes then turned sharply at Nali. With a swift lunge, he pinned Nali against the wall.

“I am not easily swayed, dark pearl of Valon. How can I trust your word? You are but one of my many mistresses.”

Nali parted her lips and drew close to Aidern’s face, “I don’t suppose I can seduce you?”

Aidern chuckled and glanced over his shoulder at Cecilia and Antoine. “Your offer is most tempting, but I have been satisfied, my kitten. Not to mention that this is an issue of my nation’s security.”

“Are you going to make me go rough on you?” Nali teased threateningly, tightening her fist.

Aidern looked over at Cecilia again. His expression confused her. He was trying to communicate something. Before she could discern his message, Antoine had taken opportunity to seize Aidern’s sword and hold it at ready.

“Don’t worry, Lady. I have him,” Antoine declared.

Aidern was much quicker than Antoine anticipated. The elf pinched the tip of the blade and summoned a bit of flame through it, burning Antoine’s hands. Antoine was forced to drop the sword, before Aidern delivered a solid kick to his chest sending him tumbling backwards.

“Cecilia, take my sword and keep an eye on him while I discuss matters with the Lady,” Aidern ordered, returning his attention to Nali.

Cecilia fumbled for the blade and held it at Antoine’s throat. This felt wrong. She did not want to have to kill Antoine, she hoped that was not Aidern’s plan. It would be okay to go with him right? The look on Antoine’s face filled her with guilt. He was her friend, was he not? How could she hold a blade to his throat? Cecilia steeled herself. She had agreed to Aidern’s plan. She had decided it was for the best. Many would still die, but not as many as before. Not only that, Aidern knew of a way home.

“I’m sorry,” Cecilia squeaked, hoping Antoine could hear her.

Aidern was still discussing something with Nali. Cecilia could only hear the tone of Aidern’s voice turn from rough to coy. Was he trying to bait her too?

“Lady, you shall come with me until I decide his fate. Cecilia, keep an eye on him, I shall return shortly,” Aidern announced dragging Nali out of the room and shutting the door behind him. The bolt clicked audibly. He had locked her in here?

After processing the situation, Cecilia slowly moved the sword away from Antoine.

“I’m sorry,” she hissed again.

Antoine moved suddenly, knocking the sword out of her hands and seizing her wrists. Cecilia was too shocked to move or defend herself. His grip was strong and painful.

“Whose side are you on?” Antoine bellowed, his eyes flaring darkly. He started pushing Cecilia until she was against a wall. Her wrists were so small. With a little more effort he could break them.

He was a little surprised when Cecilia started sobbing. Normally, he would have expected her to fight back. She was not even struggling at this point. Until he got his answer, he was not going to let go.

“Cecilia…Cecilia please tell me. Can I still trust you? Are we still friends?”

Cecilia coughed and choked on tears. She shook her head, “I don’t know.”

“You don’t know? Cecilia how could you not know? Brianna is waiting for you and worried. Would you betray her?” he knew it was a cruel tactic, but Cecilia was vulnerable. He had to use this opportunity to escape. Aidern was being kept busy by Nali. From the way they behaved, Nali must have known what she was getting herself into. She knew she was going to sacrifice herself in this way, that was why she was silent.

Cecilia’s body went limp. Antoine tried to jerk her to keep her upright.

“Please…stop hurting me,” Cecilia whimpered.

“I want to trust you,” Antoine insisted. “But Ignac is our enemy. I am not in your position. I am in grave danger right now. Ignac wants me dead. You understand that right?”

Cecilia nodded and sniffed hard. Antoine released her wrists and took a step back.

“I risked my own life coming for you, it was my own mistake trespassing into enemy grounds. But, I could not torture Brianna. I’m sure you want to see her again right?”

Cecilia glared despite herself. Antoine was horribly obvious when it came to manipulating. However, he had a point. Brianna would need to know she found a route home. The more she thought about it. Aidern’s plans would still work. He would just have to trust her.

“Promise…promise you won’t tell,” Cecilia said shakily.

Antoine looked somewhat sympathetic, “He hurt you, didn’t he?”

Cecilia blinked in surprise. Antoine must have believed Aidern’s story that she had been his mistress. She almost wanted to smack him, but well…she could use that to her advantage.

“Just promise you won’t tell them about this place,” Cecilia insisted. In the back of her mind she was feeling a bit mischievous.

“When we defeat Ignac it won’t matter, but if that is what you wish of me…I do owe you a small favor,” Antoine grinned brushed a finger against Cecilia’s chin. “I apologize for being rough. That was inconsiderate of me.”

“Only fair,” Cecilia sniffled.

Antoine cleared his throat, “So the next step is getting you out of here.”

“I can help with that,” Cecilia reassured, blowing her nose in a handkerchief.

Cecilia approached a grate and called into it. Antoine heard small footfalls outside, the bolt sliding and the retreating footfalls.

“That…was amazingly easy. The hard part will be finding the way out,” Antoine said pushing open the door. “Can you walk?”

Cecilia nodded and followed after Antoine. She was not too familiar with the layout of the villa yet.

“If we could just stay a bit, we could collect so much information about their plans. Think we have time?”

“Lord Aidern will not be long with the Lady of Valon. And he has loyal servants,” Cecilia insisted.

“Right, sorry, it’s more important to get you out of here. I’m sure you learned a few of his plans while here right?”

“Of course! Do you know where you’re going?”

“I don’t suppose you know where the kitchen is.”

Cecilia, fortunately, knew vaguely where the kitchen was located. She guided Antoine there. Antoine shoved her through the vent Nali had shown him before.

“I feel guilty leaving Nali behind like this,” Antoine confessed, assisting Cecilia out of the vent. “But she knew what she was doing, I think.”

Cecilia nodded. Cecilia quickly figured that the Lady of Valon was Aidern’s wife that he had long been apart from. Clementa looked a great deal like her mother and could finally be reunited, if only for a brief while.

“Now to find the horses,” Antoine mused.

Cecilia waved her hand for Antoine to follow her. She remembered exactly where the stables were.

Antoine was pleased to find his own mount unharmed. Quickly he retacked his animal and lifted Cecilia into the saddle. Antoine mounted himself and settled Cecilia sidesaddle over his lap. Cecilia was reminded vaguely of the ride with Aidern to the first camp and a flush rushed into her face. Antoine’s horse would not boil nor did Antoine smell of scented oils like Aidern.

Antoine stopped the horse at a small military camp which made Cecilia grow uneasy. Her eyes watched each soldier with distrust.

“I don’t want to stay here,” Cecilia said.

“We can’t travel at night. It’s safe here,” Antoine insisted, taking the tack off the horse, signaling that no matter what Cecilia said, they were staying.

Cecilia scowled, “I don’t feel comfortable with so many MEN around.”

Antoine sighed, “I’ll make sure no one bothers you.”

Cecilia played with the ends of her hair and looked like she was about to cry. Antoine ran his fingers through his untidy hair and scratched his head.

“Fine. I’ll speak with the commanding officer here and see if you can have some privacy. Happy?”

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