Cecilia slept for two days. She awoke to the squeals of an infant. Opening her eyes took nearly all her strength. Lucifer was cradling a fussing baby in his arms. His little red fists were balled up in rage and no one was going to comfort him but his mother.

“Oh…you’re awake. Sorry if he woke you,” Lucifer smiled. “Lucius was born a few days ago in Twynd. On the eve of the battle no less. He does have a temper on him though.”

Cecilia blinked a few times and sat upright.

“Are you feeling any better?”

“Still sore…and hungry,” Cecilia smiled.

“You’ve been asleep for two days. Ailill said it was normal. I am going to fetch him now. Would you like to hold Lucius? I don’t think he’ll stop screaming until Silvia comes back.”

Cecilia nodded and was landing with a pink, screaming elf baby. Suddenly, she felt as though Lucifer was using her as a scapegoat. Lucius was loud. Cecilia played with the ends of one of Lucius’ long ears.

“You look like a bunny rabbit…yes you do. You have a powerful set of lungs and I think we’ve had quite enough of your demonstration. I’m hungry too but you don’t see me yelling my head off,” Cecilia cooed.

Lucius pulled at the collar of her tunic and whimpered pathetically.

“You won’t find much there, I’m afraid,” Cecilia smirked.

Lucius whined as Cecilia bounced him and let him suck on her finger.

Silvia returned with Ailill, “Not a minutes rest with this one. I fed you an hour ago. You’re going to get so fat!”

“He can use what nutrients he can, he was born early. Let me see your side Cecilia,” Ailill commanded softly. After the quick inspection, Cecilia was given soft food to eat.

“How is everyone?” she asked.

“Antoine seems to be doing all right. Although he claims an angel saved him from death. Sebastien insists you had something to do with it. Brianna is worried about you. And the king…the king wishes to thank you. I don’t think you realize what you have done.”

“The King? Then the battle…went well?”

“As well as it could. Antoine was injured but that can be expected. Aidern surrendered as soon as the dragon was gone.”

“Is Lord Aidern still here?”

“Of course, with the Lady of Valon. Oh she never told me she was so involved. I wanted to help her. But she was so sneaky,” Silvia complained. “Lucy has been barking non-stop about him.”

“If you are feeling up to it, I can allow more guests in here, but only one or two at time.”

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to talk to Brianna and Lord Aidern.”

Silvia had lulled Lucius to sleep by the time Aidern and Brianna arrived. The two were confused why they were called at the same time. Aidern still had shackles around his wrists but he did not seem to complain. A smile was plastered onto his face.

“Ignac is in your debt forever, Cecilia,” Aidern said softly so as not to disturb Lucius. “I am sorry you have gone through all this, I did not expect things to go as badly as they did.”

“It couldn’t be helped. You stalled too long and let Lucifer get involved.”

“Ah yes, well…I could make excuses but what good would it do. You wanted to see me about something, am I right?”

“Yes…about my price.”

Aidern nodded, “Orn’d is fetching Father Andrew from the labyrinth as we speak. The Baron ordered him captured when he returned.”

“He must have brought us here, he’s the only Tempus left right?”

“Yes. He will come here within a few days,” Aidern reassured.

“Brianna, we can go home soon,” Cecilia sighed.

Brianna nodded and wiped her eyes. “I’m glad.”

“Silvia, you didn’t let him touch Lucius did you?” Lucifer grumped upon returning to the room.

Silvia smirked, “Lucy that is no way to treat an ally.”

“Silvia you know why I can never be his ally.”

“Lucius liked him,” Silvia smirked. “And I have forgiven him long ago.”

“Lucifer,” Cecilia interrupted.

Lucifer glared at her, “Why do you continually oppose me on this matter?”

How those words brought back memories.

“It’s not an attack on you, don’t take it so personally. You’re being over-sensitive,” Cecilia smiled. “The king has asked for me?”

“Everyone is asking for you. There will be treaty meetings soon. Your presence is necessary before they begin.”

“Mine? Why me?”

“Because the new Lord of Ignac names you as his advisor and ambassador between Lucior.”

“Fitting I suppose,” Cecilia smirked.

“Antoine has been meaning to visit you for some time now,” Lucifer insisted.

“All right dear that’s enough. You need to settle down before these meetings start. And you haven’t been giving me any attention,” Silvia complained pulling her husband’s arm.

She was alone for now and finally glad of it. Having visitors was tiring, especially the high strung ones. Cecilia was just about to settle for another nap when a knock came at her door.

“Who is it?”

“It’s me, Antoine,” came the reply.

Cecilia grunted. She had to be nice to him.

“Come in.”

The door opened slowly and squealed on its hinges. Antoine moved timidly from behind the wooden frame, trying to decide the right expression to show. His face was clean shaven and trimmed. Cecilia wondered if he had prepared himself to meet her. She felt almost guilty she had not washed or combed her hair in nearly three days. She smiled weakly, figuring Antoine would have difficulty finding words to say.

“You…ah…Sebastien told me what happened. Back then. And…I’m sorry that I almost killed you. I forgot…” his face was turning bright red.

“Try not to think about it. I didn’t really do anything.”

“Didn’t do anything? Cecilia…You…saved me from death.”

“You were dead. Really dead. But I really didn’t save you…someone else did.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I remember Father Andy telling me about this. Whenever a miracle is performed, it was not through that person’s own power. It is borrowed so to speak. So it’s not me you should be thanking. I’ll give you three guesses who.”

Antoine fiddled with his fingers and chewed on his lip.

“You didn’t have to. You had no reason to ask for a miracle.”

“And I am not worthy to be granted it. I should apologize to you, Antoine. I have thrown your charity in your face with ingratitude. You didn’t have to come rescue me back then. If you want to think of it as anything, think of it as my debt repaid to you,” Cecilia bowed her head slightly. “I don’t want you to think you owe me anything. Just…just continue to be kind, like your father.”

Antoine smiled crookedly, “You are taking advantage of me. I have to do something for you.”

“I’m going home, which is what I want. I don’t want anything you could give me. I just want to go home. With Brianna.”

“I can’t be satisfied with just that.”

“Then you can finish the work I started as a favor. You must make sure Lucifer steps down from his position and assumes a lesser role. You must make sure aide is given to Telras and Ignac to recover from the war. You must choose fair and just vassals for the state of Horen. The Nemnos elves must be given more land. And Twynd and Valia must be rewarded for their contributions.”

“A tall order,” Antoine said, scratching his ear. “But as knight of the Rose Order, I can not deny a lady’s request.”

“Oh and one more thing.”

“Yes?” Antoine asked nervously.

“Never call me “Viper” again,” Cecilia grinned.

Antoine blinked in surprise, then laughed.

“As you wish, Lady Cecilia.”

Three days later, Father Andrew returned with Orn’d and the leaders from Twynd and Valia. Charlotte from Horen made an appearance and the King’s wife Angela and her sister Clare. Cecilia wanted to ask Father Andrew a million questions but she would have to catch up with her old teacher after the meetings.

Cecilia sat with Aidern and Nali. She sighed as she noted Lucifer glaring at her. Introductions were out of the way and discussion for new treaties were at hand. Cecilia was growing weary of the arguing. From an outsider’s point of view, this was ridiculous. Each nation had their pride and were looking for the best cut of the pie.

Father Andrew would smile at her wearied expression from time to time giving her encouragement.

After the first day, new borders were agreed upon. However, that was all that was resolved for the moment.

Cecilia ate with Brianna and her mercenary friends. Arius questioned the proceedings of the council which Cecilia reluctantly repeated. Cornelia was pleased by the section of state that would be offered to the Nemnos.

“We might finally be able to settle down,” she sighed.

“Not bloody likely,” Arius grumped shoveling food into his mouth greedily.

“You won’t be able to keep up with this lifestyle forever. I’d like to start a family before I get too old.”

“For god’s sake, we agreed on no children. Nothing but trouble.”

“Haven’t you seen Silvia’s little boy?”

“Freak of elf. His ears are far too long and he does nothing but scream. I will not have one of those ungrateful eating machines.”

Cornelia smiled and dropped the subject for now. Cecilia could sympathize with Cornelia. Arius might change his mind later.

“Have you ever thought of having kids, Bree?” Cecilia asked.

“Oh goodness no! I would make a horrible mother.”

“Yeah, right, you’ll change your mind within the year,” Arius grumbled. “What is it with you women and your NEED to have children?”

“It’s how God made us. We are born with maternal instincts, usually,” Cecilia added noting Cambree.

“See, now here is an example of a fine woman. Right Cambree?”

“I had kids once,” Cambree smirked. “Fine animals. I had to slaughter them when I decided to join a mercenary group.”

Arius laughed, “You and your goats. They were delicious!”

“Are you excited to go home soon?” Cecilia asked Brianna.

“Am I ever! I never thought I miss Greg so much. He must be so worried.”

“Seb is going to miss you,” Cecilia teased.

“Oh stop, I’m not going to put myself through a guilt trip over that.”

The next day there were more meetings and more arguing. Cecilia’s patience was wearing thin. Aidern kept mucking up her arguments. Lucifer kept blaming Aidern. Dwyn was asking for tribute from Lucior. Valia wanted tribute from Ignac. Telras pressed for aide against disease and starvation. Father Andrew was pleading for a fair trial for Baron Peregrine and Abbot Columbo before they were tossed aside into prisons. Things were going in circles and no one was taking command of the argument.

Cecilia stood and waited until attention was on her.

“This council is deciding nothing. The only thing that can be agreed upon is borders. I vote for a redistribution of representatives on this council. We need to elect a council leader.”

“I will nominate Cecilia for such a position,” Aidern announced standing.

“I second the nomination,” Antoine chimed in.

“I nominate Father Andrew,” Cecilia said desperately.

“Does the Council approve unanimously of the position?” King Leon asked in his calm voice.

Hands went up from around the table and Cecilia regretted standing up. Now what?

“F-first order of business, will be discussion of the Baron’s Trial,” she ordered shakily. Was this all right?

“Why does that hold more importance than terms of a treaty?”

“B-because it is something that can be decided quickly.”

“His liege lord is the King of Pravignon and Charlotte,” Kaina explained. “It should be their problem.”

“He is also of the Order of the Tempus Milites. As the last of the Order, I act as its head,” Father Andrew said. “I request to judge him in a court held in Horen.”

“The request has been heard by the council. Does Council have any opposition to the request?”

No one posed further questions.

“Then let permission be written and the Barron released to Father Andrew for judgment in Horen. This session will end for the day and reconvene tomorrow.”

She had done it. Only just a twenty year old, she had lead a Council Meeting. Cecilia bumped into Lucifer.

“Excuse me, Council Leader. That was quick handling. Although you ended our meeting quite early.”

“I have research to do before I can help everyone. And I really don’t want to ask you do this in public but, Lucifer…will you resign your powers as High Elf of Lucior to another.”

“You find me unworthy of the position?”

Cecilia swallowed hard and found trouble finding the right words.

“Lucifer, you are preventing progress of friendly terms because of a personal grudge. I know you can lead. Your people have confidence in you in times of trouble, but when it comes to times of peace…”.

Lucifer was glaring at her hotly.

“We need to start healing wounds not reopen them,” Cecilia pressed. “I can see that you are given a different position on the council.”

“I will resign then, Lady Cecilia,” he said to her surprise. “It is obvious your leadership is biased and I will have no part in a partial council.”

“Luki no, wait,” but it was too late. Lucifer stormed away.

Cecilia squeeze her eyes shut and hid behind a closed door before anyone could see her cry.

Lucifer publicly announced his resignation the next day and left the council. Kaina was elected as high representative for Lucior. The next bit of decisions went smoothly. The first clause of the treaty was decided upon. Each nation was called to reduce its armed forces by certain fractions. A new support system would have to be devised next for the large number of unemployed soldiers. There was also a call to change government systems in some nations. Ignac and Pravignon were the only two countries left with hereditary governments.

“It was him all along wasn’t it? I didn’t want to think it was, but we actually made progress today,” Cecilia moped.

“I’m sure that he thought you an ally because of your former relationship. Don’t take it too hard. You have to keep focused on overseeing the council’s decisions,” Father Andrew comforted. “You can not favor your friends in politics. You called out what most of the council was too afraid to call out on. It may seem like you favor Ignac, but your leadership has shown you have no partiality to any nation. Although you rightly sympathize with Telras.”

“Father Andy, about going home…”.

“It’s hard to wait, but I can not start preparing a gate until after these blasted meetings. It could take months though.”

“We can not afford that, we are draining Countess Clare’s resources as is. We need to confirm our short term goals and see those done before another convention”.

“That sounds reasonable. We may get done next week then. See you tomorrow.”

Cecilia was grateful to talk with Brianna more. She and Sebastien had not been attending meetings.

“I’m really surprised Antoine goes,” Brianna teased. “Things are going to be so boring when we go back compared to all this.”

“I think I’ll welcome it,” Cecilia sighed. “I am never going into politics. It sucks. And I’m still pissed about the whole deal with Lucifer.”

“I’m sure he understands. He is an adult.”

“I have a hard time believing that’s true. So what have you and Seb been up to?”

“He’s just showing me around and telling me stories. And remembering how to be affectionate,” she giggled.

“Don’t tell me you think you’re going to stay now. What about Greg?”

“Well, Greg is nice. But on the other hand, Seb already has his own land and he’s a prince. That’s not a bad deal.”

“He won’t be next in line you know. We’re changing Pravignon’s government system to a democratic monarchy. I should probably speak to Kaina about this but I think Lucifer should be a part of Pravignon’s government instead.”

“Still thinking about politics,” Brianna giggled.

“When I graduate from college, I am totally going to run for President…of Canada,” Cecilia laughed.

In the morning, Cecilia met with Kaina to decide on Lucifer’s new position.

“I would still keep him involved with Lucior as an advisor at least. New elections in Lucior will start soon after these meetings.”

“A system of ambassadors might be worth while. It forces at least one official to step in the shoes of the country they are dealing with. At the very least, open dialogue between countries should be in place.”

“There I agree. You do not need to concern yourself with Lucifer’s dismissal. Give him time to lick his wounds and he’ll be back. Silvia will turn his head on straight. They work better as a couple than individually. He’s too strict while she’s too easy going. Two exact extremes that balance each other out. And it’s probably best he spend time with his new son.”

Cecilia sighed, “I hate to rush decisions that should be decided with care, but I am getting anxious about going home.”

“I think we all are. To convene so soon after a battle is strange. But some of these emergency situations should be dealt with quickly. Other treaties can take their time.”

The first three clauses of the treaty were agreed upon and emergency help promised. Part of the Telras-Ignac army would be commissioned to rebuild Pravignon which they claimed could be livable within three months. It was also agreed that a celebration should be held now that the first council meeting was officially over. Cecilia left before she was reminded of the Spring Formal Committees.

Father Andrew set off immediately with Baron in hand to hold a trial and begin research for Cecilia and Brianna. The fortress emptied and the camps dispersed. The feasting began shortly after. Cecilia did not see much of Brianna that evening. She was obviously occupied with flirting with Sebastien. It was best to just stay out of the way. She spoke with friends she had made within the council. She was somewhat sad Aidern and his family had left. But they were together again. They did not have to hide. Lucifer and his family were not attending either, but she knew that his family would take care of him and the new High Elf would help. Dwyn offered reassuring words in concern of the matter with Lucifer.

Cecilia truly enjoyed the company of King Leon and conversing with him. He was a quiet, thoughtful man. He reminded her a bit of Sebastien but more matured. Antoine was definitely more like his mother who was butting into everyone’s business and being very expressive.

“I wish I could think of you as a daughter, but you leave so soon,” the King said. “You both have done great things for my people and my family.”

“You are too kind, your highness. I do not wish for you to think you owe me anything. I am content to return home to my own family. They will be worried.”

“They must be wrought with worry. I understand what it is like to have a child disappear. Antoine used to torment poor Sebastien until he ran from home. He never got too far though,” the king chuckled.

“Oh I’ve done similar to my own siblings. Have they ever gotten along?”

“They were fighting in the womb or so my wife claims,” Leon laughed.

Cecilia joined in the laughter.

The moment was interrupted by a shrill cry. Cecilia instinctively darted towards the noise to defend Brianna.

She found Sebastien looking quite terrified and Brianna white in the face with her hands over her mouth and nose. Antoine arrived closely behind Cecilia and a small crowd gathered.

Sebastien started to turn red and sweat. Brianna looked like she was crying. No one breathed a word until Brianna tackled Sebastien in an embrace.

“What’s going on here?” Antoine muttered.

After the initial excitement settled down, Brianna ran to Cecilia and grabbed her.

“Ah watch the stitches!”

“Ceese, I’m sorry but we have to take Seb back with us. We’re going to get married.”

Antoine choked and Sebastien looked dead.

Dispersing the crowd took some effort as did reviving Sebastien to his senses.

“So“, Cecilia began. “What exactly sparked this idea? I thought you weren’t interested in getting married so young.”

“We can wait. It wouldn’t have to be right away, right Seb?”

“Right,” Sebastien squeaked.

“What about Greg?” Cecilia whispered.

“I can break up with him over the summer,” Brianna whispered back.

“That might be too much trouble. Why don’t you stay here? You realize you would have to pay for Sebastien. Over there he’s broke with no parents to support him. It wouldn’t be nice.”

“Oh you’re right!” Brianna moaned. “You always think things through. That’s why I need you around.”

“You don’t really need me. You seem to get on just fine on your own. You did a lot better in college than I did.”

“Not in my grades.”

“As if that really mattered,” Cecilia grinned. “I mean look at me. I nearly flunked Pre-Calc and I’m running international councils…for elves.”

“I guess I should think about it a little harder then and not jump to conclusions. But it didn’t seem right to say ‘No’. It’s hard enough asking a girl out, let alone marry her,” Brianna said.

Brianna tended to Sebastien for a moment while Antoine look on green with envy.

“I’ll just tell your mom you eloped,” Cecilia laughed and left. Antoine followed after her.

“You’re not upset at my brother?”

“No, why should I be?”

“I thought Brianna was your friend. Do you really want to be separated from her?”

“Antoine, are you upset because you were interested in Brianna? I thought it was your bright idea to hook them up.”

“Yeah, but I didn’t expect it to go this far.”

“Well, then you are a good older brother. It’ll come back to you someday. At least that’s what I keep telling myself. Hm…maybe that is lousy advice,” Cecilia smirked.

Antoine sighed, “I hope you’re right. It’s been awhile since I had a lady-friend.”

Cecilia snorted and rolled her eyes, “Something tells me it won’t take long for you to find one.”

At long last, it was time to return home. The baron’s trial had passed judgment and the Baron was sent to the Labyrinth in Telras. Brianna went back and forth on her decision to stay with Sebastien or leave. She joined Cecilia at least. Cecilia had made her decision. She was ready to return at last.

This time she was going to change. She was going to start over again. She had fought in a war. Lead a peace council. Ate with kings and princes. It was certainly an exciting Spring Break. But the tale was coming to an end now. It was time to say good-bye again.

Sebastien came with Brianna, but Antoine remained behind due to his injury reopening during a friendly spar. They waited for Father Andrew in a parlor at Lady Charlotte’s manor.

“I’m going to be upset about missing the wedding,” Cecilia smiled sadly.

“Well, I won’t be there for yours either,” Brianna shot back.

“Oh, I won’t get married anytime soon,” Cecilia laughed. “Not going to be able to find an elf so easily.”

Brianna burst into laughter. Sebastien coughed to hid his own laughs of amusement.

Father Andrew finally made his reappearance. He looked quite tired, but smiled at their laughter.

They all got to their feet and waited expectantly. Father Andrew took a deep breath and shut his eyes.

“There will be no going back, I’m afraid. The halls have been sealed for good.”

Cecilia’s expression fell to one of disbelief.

“You and Brianna were…the Prophesied Ones to bring the Golden Kingdom. And I fear it is my fault you must now stay here. Cecilia…please forgive me. I brought you both here while I was imprisoned as a last ditched effort. Someone had to find the Baron with the Dragon. I had no choice. Forgive me.”

Cecilia stepped back, too stunned to hear all of Father Andrew’s speech. Brianna covered her mouth and waited to see Cecilia’s full reaction. Cecilia was shaking her head. “This…this can not be…”.

Father Andrew offered an embrace as did Brianna. Cecilia looked to Sebastien who was also too stunned for words. She turned her back to them all.

“Well,” she said with an unsteady voice. “I guess I won’t miss the wedding”. Cecilia ran from sight, but her cries could be heard throughout the halls.

“Oh Cecilia,” Father Andrew sighed. “This is the dawn of a new age. Ushered by you two.”

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