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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:45:33 GMT -5
even easier for Lydrion to gain control of. As a princess, Ketra had no place here. As Rose’s best friend, there was no where else she could have been.
The Royalty of Everglade found itself being pushed farther and farther back. Hundreds were already dead, bodies littered the ground, and red blanketed the world once again. Perhaps Kylara had been right again: This was it. Then, just when everything seemed lost, another army appeared over the horizon. “Everglade.” Markus said with disbelief. His father was even there, stonily commanding them. The fighting had stopped when the new combatants appeared, no one sure at first whose side they were on. “It’s my father and Everglade!” Markus shouted to his remaining troops. They cheered very briefly before the battle began again, fighting with a restored vigor as the king and his men streamed in.
Laura was covering as many people as she could; their rank of archers had not yet been reached. Bruce’s sword felt heavy as her side, as though it were crying out to be used. She was firing so that she killed with almost every shot but the king was far from impressed. He hated her, she feared him, yet when Markus fell they cried out as one. Audrion knew at once that, though he was the king and his son was close to death, he could do nothing. Laura, on the other hand… Laura had a sword, and she could save him. She could do this. “Laura,” He said. The maid nodded and went forth, as though she’d been waiting for his permission. It took barely any time; Laura moved so quickly, was so motivated. Markus was at his father’s side shortly, with a slash across his chest but very much alive. “How can I-” Audrion started, but Laura shook her head. “No, your majesty. I love him too.”
****
Dasher darted out of the battle to heal as many as she could manage. She gasped to see Markus slowly losing blood and on the ground. Laura was holding his hand, Audrion was using Laura’s sword to protect them both. “How bad is it?” Dasher called. “It didn’t look that bad, but I can’t make it stop bleeding.” Laura said frantically. “I’ve tried everything.” “It doesn’t especially hurt.” Markus said, but Laura silenced him with a look. Each time he spoke, the blood flowed harder. “Who did this?” Dasher asked. “I didn’t see,” Laura admitted reluctantly. “This big, scarred black thing!” Audrion called back. “Tobias…” Dasher muttered. “This is a spell then, a shadow spell. I can remove it, but I need your help, Laura.” “Anything,” Laura said stoutly. Under Dasher guidance she put her hand over the wound and spread her fingers wide.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:45:53 GMT -5
“You are the vessel…” Dasher said. Then the princess channeled her healing powers through Laura’s skin, mending Markus’s flesh and taking away the maid’s energy. Soon, Markus was standing again.
****
The door banged. Rose shut her eyes and Gabriel moaned. Then he clenched his fists. “Rose, I’ll distract them, you go.” “I won’t let you do that,” The princess said stiffly. “Even if I die, I want you to be safe.” “I’m not going to let you die anonymous and alone.” “I’m going to die for you. It doesn’t matter if no one remembers me.” “Gabriel…” “I love you,” He said softly. She kissed him as the door opened.
****
Firelight dashed around to the back of the fortress, panting and out of breath. Three soldiers chased after her. She aimed black fire at one man, scorching his hand. She knew she was only putting off the inevitable; she was a poor fighter and she was running out of energy. Firelight darted her tail out, slashing the second man’s leg. A sword was sent slashing down at her neck. She closed her eyes, waiting to die. Then, from inside her, an intense heat burned, sending flames out of every inch of her skin. The trees caught quickly and the three men fell. The deadly sword had never reached its mark, but now the young princess found herself in a wildfire.
****
A trace of fear flickered across Lydrion’s face. Fire. The instrument that had taken his parents lives, left him and Cally orphaned. It was something that he could never defeat, no matter how powerful he became. Yet that small flicker, barely detectable, was all that he had shown. Before, he would have fallen apart entirely, gone to pieces, called for Cally’s help. He smiled. He didn’t need her any more, and anything he didn’t need deserved to die. Gabriel and Rose, though on their feet, had their heads pressed into the hard stone of the wall before them. They were still alive, but it was certainly a temporary condition if Lydrion had anything to say about it. Maya was holding down Gabriel’s head, Benvolio held Rose’s. Lydrion was once again emotionless. Rose began to struggle but Lydrion’s own hand moved to help Benvolio’s. The small boy was shaking dreadfully. “Coward!” Rose screamed. “Too weak to fight us alone! Too weak to do anything by yourself!” With a quick motion Lydrion rapped her head against the stone. Her lip began to bleed. Then he did it again and again. Benvolio drew back, running away as fast as he could.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:46:10 GMT -5
“Rose!” Gabriel shouted. “Please, stop! Do anything you want to me! Please!” Lydrion let go of her head, his hands still unmarred. Rose did not move, the blood still seeping from her lip and now from her nose and ear as well. “Leave, Maya.” Lydrion intoned coldly. The girl nodded and disappeared. Gabriel stood up straight, still unarmed, facing Lydrion with defiance. “She’s right, you are a coward. Attacking someone who can’t fight back, attacking a lady.” Gabriel said. Lydrion drew his sword and then passed it to the stunned blacksmith. It was the sword he had made for Rose, and it made him tremble very slightly. Lydrion then drew his own sword, keeping his gaze locked on Gabriel’s face. “Defend yourself then.” He said. Gabriel managed to block the first hit, taking Lydrion’s second to the shoulder. Gabriel reacted quickly and drew blood from Lydrion’s leg. For awhile, neither of them struck again. Then Lydrion grazed the side of Gabriel’s neck, forcing him to the edge of the wall. There was a moment they just stared at each other. There was a moment that Gabriel knew that he was going to die, and that Lydrion was going to kill him. Then he backed up and his feet touched nothing. He heard Rose’s terrible scream as he began to fall in the fire below. Then there was nothing. Rose just kept screaming, she couldn’t stop herself, she didn’t know if she would want to. It was a sound only heard in nightmares, in the darkest of dreams, on the edge of oblivion. It wouldn’t leave Lydrion’s head, he saw the flames again, smelled the smoke… “What are you going to do now, princess?” Lydrion taunted, pushing away his own fears and lashing out at hers. “There are no weapons left for you now.” “Not quite.” Rose snarled, her voice so filled with hatred Lydrion shock. She was overcome with grief, her mind was muddled, and nothing was making sense. All she could really comprehend was that the blood was starting to dry on her face. She reacted on instinct, punching Lydrion across the jaw with such force that he hit the ground. Then she sprinted in the other direction, not looking back. She had to know if there was any chance Gabriel was still alive.
****
“Rose?” Raythor stepped through the burnt wood, finally able to make out a distant figure kneeling in the dirt. He had heard the scream and was terrified of what it could mean. Now he was here, to see… “Raythor?” A hollow, broken voice came from Rose’s throat, calling him to her. Soon he was standing over her, taking in everything that she had been forced to see. Knowing deep down what must have happened; he put a hand on her shoulder. “I’m sorry Rose. I’m so sorry.” “He’s dead,” She told him faintly. “He loved me, and he’s dead.” “I understand. It’s hard at first, but if you face it it’s a lot easier.” Raythor said. “Of course, I’ve never seen anyone die that I can remember… Is there anything that I can-?” “Rose!” Markus pushed through the remaining trees, realizing what had happened just as quickly as Raythor had. “One of us has got to stay here with her.” Raythor said. Markus nodded. “I’ll do it. You’re the better fighter, they need you.” “You’re the general.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:46:42 GMT -5
“Raythor, I have to tell him something.” Rose said flatly. “I wish you could be here when I do, and figure it out just like you always do, but I can’t. So I choose Markus.” “If that’s what you want, I’m gone.” Raythor said, trying to smile at her and knowing that what he did didn’t matter. “One more thing.” “What?” “Kill as many as you can, for me.” “On my honor, princess.” “What do you have to tell me?” Markus asked, as the dark haired boy faded back into the trees.
****
Saria had seen many battles in her life. She knew they had no chance if they didn’t fight harder than they ever had before. Now everyone was getting tired, and Everglade’s forces were waning. This wasn’t enough, they needed more. Wordlessly, Nightshade caught Blade’s eye from across the field, just as his tail slashed viciously through an enemy’s chest. At first, she seemed to be standing alone. Then, from behind her, came hundreds of elementists. All six elementist countries had sent forces to their aid. Nightshade had chosen her side. Tallith was surrounded and he had no where left to run and no one left to help him. He thought wistfully of Anella, then came to the realization that Lydrion’s forces were now fighting against each other. Tobias and Peregrine had chosen sides too.
****
“‘Where once I could not speak, I call out now to you. My voice once lost is found; thanks to you his hands are bound.’” Rose recited perfectly. Markus blinked, waiting for more, but she was silent. They were now both sitting, turned away from the body. He patted her back. “Well, that was as confusing as it ever was.” “It makes perfect sense.” Rose argued, keeping her eyes away from Gabriel’s body. “Mary is coming here to help us, and she’s the only one who can kill Lydrion.” “I understand that Gabriel died, and that you’re in shock and nothing is going to be the same again.” Markus said, very softly. “You don’t understand …” Rose said, starting to cry. Markus, bewildered, pulled her close. She buried her head in his chest and cried harder. “It’s not fair…” “I think I found your Mary.” Jason came from the trees, with Bruce, Oraia and Kira following after him. “We’re not going to hurt you. I surrender.” Markus said, not wanting to let go of Rose to hold up his hands. “We’re fighting on your side.” Oraia said, stepping forward. The prince’s eyes opened wide. “Lady Songsteel…”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:47:20 GMT -5
“This is Bruce Fairfax, who’s supposed to be dead.” Oraia explained. “This is Kira Softpetal, Archer’s ex-fiancée. He took her voice. And this is Jason Whitestar, Sabbath’s son who’s run away from home. All of us want to help you.” Markus couldn’t speak for a long time. Kira walked to the prince’s side, holding something out. He held his breath. Mary’s diary. Rose sat up straight and held out the exact same book. “I told you it all made sense.” The princess said. “Remember? ‘Who am I? That I cannot tell you until my own throat can speak it. You merely must trust that I am looking out for you.’ All the times we just made it, or squeezed by, or were set free… they were looking out for us.” “If Kira is supposed to be with you, than take her with you.” Oraia insisted. “If that’s what she wants, that is. We’ll stay here with Gabriel.” Kira nodded. “Wait,” Markus said. “I’ll go and fight and Rose can stay here with Kira.”
****
“Little prince,” Kenetari crooned, blue eyes flashing. When Markus had rejoined the fight, Sabbath’s fortress had already been breeched and the halls were overrun with soldiers on both sides. Now he stood in Kenetari’s doorway, clutching his sword and trying not to show that he was still afraid of her. “How nice to see you again,” She said with a very twisted smile. Somehow, she managed to slip past him into the hallway, running her fingers along the side of his face as she went. “Get out of here if you want to live.” Markus said, less than convincingly. “I thought you missed me, too. What a pity.” Kenetari sighed. “The question that remains is, are you a better fighter than your friends are?” She moved quickly, cutting a deep gash into his arm with her sword. He reacted, only managing a grazing blow to her side that barely drew blood, stepping back just in time to avoid taking another hit. He blocked the next shot and winced as his arm throbbed. “It doesn’t take much to make you bleed, does it? I really expected a bit of a challenge from Everglade’s golden boy.” Kenetari said, forcing his sword back toward him with her own. Markus lowered his sword and ducked at the same time. Her weapon went over his head and he cut forward with his, getting Kenetari in the stomach. She drew back, hands over the wound, glaring at him. “Did you think Raythor wouldn’t warn me that you did that?” Markus said, breathing hard. “It took me a long time to figure out how to counter it, I’ll give you that.” “I guess I’ll have to stop playing games with you then.” Kenetari said. She pulled her hand away and frowned at the blood. Before Markus could compose himself again, she had grabbed his wrist, twisted it back, and forced him to drop his sword. She had her own blade at his neck all most instantly. “I don’t suppose you have a cute little counter for this?” Kenetari asked, still gripping his wrist tightly with her free hand. “Not really,” Markus admitted, trying to stall her as much as possible. “We may have lost this battle,” She breathed, “but I’ll still have this one little triumph. I’ve waited quite a long time to take your life…” There was a crash and Kenetari fell to the floor. For a moment, Markus had no idea what was going on. Laura stood there blinking at him, the remnants of a vase clutched in her hands.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:47:36 GMT -5
“This might look a little strange, but your father has my sword and I ran out of arrows. Should we just leave her there?” “I don’t know what else we can do.” Markus said, and she smiled at the fact he was ignoring one fairly obvious option. He picked his sword back up, and she glanced worriedly at his arm. “It’s fine, Laura. My injury is the least of our problems.” She reluctantly agreed and they started down the hall together. Audrion handed off Laura’s sword to her as he passed them by, without disclosing his ultimate location. The couple shrugged and kept moving. Laura stopped dead, and Markus looked back at her with confusion. It wasn’t the prince’s eyes that she focused on, but Tobias’s. He had stopped dead too, for no apparent reason. They both seemed transfixed, unable to move. Something flashed between them that the prince could not see. Tobias’s eyes flashed green, hers turned briefly black. Just as suddenly, they started moving again and it was all Markus could do to keep up with her.
****
“How can you have this same book, with the same handwriting and the same contents?” Rose asked Kira, knowing she wouldn’t get an answer. She needed a distraction, so she could cling to the numbness of shock just a little longer and pretend that Gabriel wasn’t dead. “Did you just write two of them?” Kira shook her head. “But you did write this, right?” Kira nodded, pointed to Mary’s diary and shook her head. Rose thought for a second and said, “You’ve been writing this one while you were following us, but you’ve never seen my copy before? That doesn’t make any sense…” “Look out!” A male voice yelled. Rose and Kira both ducked at once and a volley of arrows went over their heads. The princess cautiously put her head back up to see it had just been Markus yelling, and the archers were already dead. She sighed, feeling completely exhausted. “Markus why are you back already?” She asked. “Is the fighting over?” “Almost,” He assured her, “I just came to get you out of here-” “I’m not leaving him here.” “All right, I’ll stay with you then.” “Markus!” This time a women’s voice was yelling, and Markus acted before he considered where it came from, killing the man who was coming up behind him. Kira pushed all the air from her lungs slowly. She’d spoken. What was it that had undone Tobias’s spell? Lydrion’s had ordered it cast in desperation, with hatred. She had undone it protecting people that she… Kira glanced from Rose to Markus, smiling. People that she cared about. When she’d first started the journal, so many months ago, she’d had a dream that Markus and Rose had brought her voice back to her. Had it been a dream, or a memory? Why were there two diaries? None of that seemed to matter to her now. Kira had been watching the two of them for so long, coming to know them without words, even without her ever meeting them before today. She cared about them, wanted to protect them, never wanted Lydrion to hurt them. She’d come just a little too late to save Gabriel, but if there was any one who could outwit Lydrion it was her. “My name is Kira Softpetal,” Kira said proudly. Her voice was just as beautiful and foreboding and strong as her writing was, and Markus and Rose fell perfectly silent
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:48:00 GMT -5
just to listen to the sound of it. “You’ve given me back what I’ve wanted so badly for so long. There’s only one way that I can repay you.”
****
“I never thought you’d survive,” Sabbath commented. Now that he was alone he didn’t seem quite so frail or quite so sickly. He looked, rather, like something that had once crumbled into dust and risen back to its former self, this time stronger, this time smarter. “Sorry to disappoint you.” Raythor answered, face perfectly expressionless. “I’m not the killer you tried to make me, either.” “So you figured out I knew you weren’t dead,” Sabbath said evenly, “and that you lost your memory. You should have broken down completely. Then I could have used both of you.” “Guess I’m a failure all around.” “Vera has a soft spot for you. That’s a weakness.” “Try and get rid of it.” It was barely a fair fight, Sabbath hadn’t fought in years. It should have ended quickly, but Raythor felt his lungs screaming at him and his forehead burning again. Pallas’s spell probably protected everyone he’d left behind in this world. The dark haired boy, to Sabbath’s surprise, fell to his knees, unable to fight back. He pulled back his sword and Raythor closed his eyes. So much for his second chance. The pain never came. He opened his eyes to see Laura, her cat eyes at their very darkest, pulling her sword out of Sabbath’s back. She walked around and pulled Raythor to his feet. Sabbath took a swing at them both, and she blocked it easily. Without thinking, she and Raythor stabbed him again, both at once. The lord fell to the side, life draining from his face. “I owe you one.” Raythor said, repressing a cough. “You’re still sick, aren’t you?” Laura asked. “I’m pretty sure. I don’t know why, I’ve been healed a dozen times.” “Do you think you’ll die?” “I might. I can’t let that happen, if I die now Rose will completely fall apart.” “What about the rest of us?” “I’m going to fight it as hard as I can, but I can’t promise anything.” Raythor said, using his old, strange half-grin instead of a real smile. “I could be dying.” Laura said nothing, pulling him into a hug and forcing herself not to cry. “Laura… Please don’t tell anyone.” Raythor said faintly. “I’m pretty sure I can keep hiding it.” “You aren’t going to tell her now, are you?” “I can’t. That wouldn’t be fair.” “No… I guess it wouldn’t. It’s not fair that you’re dying either, not after everything we’ve all been through.” “Be strong, cat girl. I bet there are a few soldiers left.”
****
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:48:18 GMT -5
“Walk into the fire or turn into our pincushion. It’s your choice.” Kira said, relishing her new voice. Behind her, Jason, Bruce, Oraia, Rose and Markus had bows drawn back, ready to fire if she told them too. “Have we drawn so far apart that you could watch me die so easily?” Lydrion said. “Remember how much we used to love each other? You couldn’t watch me die, I know you. You didn’t even want to imagine Glasswater’s death. There’s no way you’d kill me in cold blood.” “No, there isn’t. I know what choice you’ll make. You’ll just keep trying to prove that you aren’t afraid. You’ll choose the fire.” “Kira… at least I got to hear your voice again. That’s all that really matters, isn’t it? You’ve taken the last reminder of me off yourself and now you’re burning me away.” “That isn’t true.” Kira said. “I just want to make sure that you’ll never destroy another life. You’ll never realize how much damage you’ve caused, just by making that one choice three years ago. I guess now you won’t have the chance.” “Then let my last choice be the flames.” Lydrion said. He turned and walked into the trees, a burning branch falling as soon as he entered. There was no turning back.
****
The Royalty of Everglade stood before the war torn fortress, all of them bleeding and all of them exhausted. Laura kept sneaking glances at Raythor, wishing that she could forget what she knew about him, and live in the peace of ignorance with the others, at least for awhile. He was supporting Rose anyway, she was all dead weight now, it was all starting to hit her at once and she probably couldn’t have held herself up even if she wanted to. Anella, hands folded, was watching the smoke curl into the sky and thanking the heavens it was over, at last, it was over… “Kenetari was gone when I went back.” Laura said. Markus nodded. His thoughts were elsewhere, on ‘Mary’, on Lydrion walking into the flames… “I should have guessed that would happen.” “At least no one’s… no one’s dying any more.” “We do have one problem,” Audrion said, “Laina is now short a lord.” Markus and Laura exchanged glances. “What are you saying, father?” Markus asked. “I’m saying that, as a key figure in eradicating a hostile plot against Carina, Vyncent is a more than qualified candidate.” “You mean…” “Yes. Without her, I would no longer have a son.” “Sire,” Laura curtsied, eyes on the ground, “you owe me no favors.” “But I owe you everything,” Markus explained. “In his eyes, so does Everglade and so does he.”
****
Vyncent almost cried when he saw them come back. Instead of Elaura’s prince at the head on the way back, however, was Audrion the king of Everglade. He decided not to question that and just be thankful. After all, he could all ready see his daughter,
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:48:37 GMT -5
looking comparatively unscathed. What he didn’t know was that the elementist armies would be spending the night in Sabbath’s castle. What he would never know was all the details of what had happened today, on that battlefield. “Father!” Laura said, in a surprisingly energetic fashion. She hugged him tightly, much to Vyncent’s surprise. “I’m alive. Isn’t that great?” “I sense some of you were not so fortunate.” Vyncent said. Laura, biting her lip first, started talking about the battle. She began with Gabriel and Rose.
****
“The handwriting in here matches the letters we received,” Markus said, turning Mary’s diary over in his hands. He, Rose, Kira, Oraia, Bruce and Jason were all sitting together staring at each other. “And the note that was left behind when Bruce disappeared,” Rose added. “Did you write them, Kira?” “No, I’m afraid that I didn’t.” Kira said, shrugging. “I have no idea who…” “I wrote the note.” Jason said. “We learned how to write at the same time, our tutor wrote his ‘g’s that very same way and he made us do it too. Kira and I have virtually the same handwriting. No doubt my sister wrote the letters, she learned from the same man as well. Hers matches mine pretty perfectly.” “So Lydrion had nothing to do with Bruce’s ‘death’ then?” Markus asked. “No, I was the one who faked that. He would have been killed for helping me escape.” “Wait… where’s your sister?” Rose jumped in. “She isn’t really my sister. Her name is Kenetari, I’m a Whitestar. Sabbath was my father.” Jason explained. “We were just raised together. I’m a bit of a blood traitor, actually.” “With blood like that, it’s understandable.” “I’m sorry about your father.” Markus said. “The two of us haven’t spoken in a very long time…” Jason said. “He’d been so corrupted that I didn’t know him anymore. Perhaps this… this was for the best.” “What about his title?” Oraia asked. “Is little Benvolio really going to be a lord?” “I’ll speak to him. What ever he decides to do with the title, I shall support.” Jason said. “On that subject… what do the rest of you plan to do?” “I go where you go.” Oraia said. “As do I,” Kira said. “I should get home.” Bruce said. “But if you ever need me…” “I plan to rebuild the castle, if Ben agrees to it. I’m going to need a few good men on my side when I do. You and your wife are welcome to live with me.” Jason said. “I just might take you up on that.” “Markus, if I may go ahead of you and your group to Everglade, I would be most thankful. I may have a few contacts there, and Ben will surely…” “I would be happy to help you rebuild the castle; I’m the one who ordered its destruction.” Markus said. “Everglade will give you anything you need.” “Thank you, my friend. I find it impossible to refuse such an offer.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:49:02 GMT -5
****
Laura’s bare feet treaded carefully over the castle’s cold stone floor. Her eyes were open, but she saw nothing and she felt nothing. Every door she passed was shut tight, every set of eyes closed. Behind one, Rose’s body shook with sobs, the grief fresh from the blacksmith’s funeral. He was the only important person she had ever lost. Rose remembered Raythor’s voice asking her, after the battle, if she loved Gabriel. She hadn’t answer him, couldn’t have if she’d wanted to. She herself had barely been given the chance to find out. Behind another door Markus slept, not hearing the quiet footsteps pad by. Audrion had given in, but Kenetari was still missing. He couldn’t help but think that she would be back one day and his dreams were wracked with her terrible eyes. Laura woke up in front of a mirror in the light room. “I must have been sleep walking,” Laura yawned. Her reflection said: “Thousands of years ago, he faded and fell but you live now.” Laura blinked. It had to be a trick of the light or something. “Go ahead. I’m here now.” The mirror spoke again, much to her distress: “Fewer people to admire your charm?” “Markus, is that you? This isn’t funny.” “Dead?” The mirror gasped, “How?” “Stop it, stop it!” “Isn’t it beautiful out here?” “Who are you?” Laura demanded, knowing full well that it was her voice coming from the mirror. “Dasher? Dasher, please come out.” “What’s wrong with me?” The mirror asked, and her reflection started crying. “Where is that coming from?” “Why does that matter? I didn’t need saving, especially from you!” Her reflection shouted. Laura covered her ears. She couldn’t move and it wouldn’t stop. “I guess you’re me.” She told it. “Markus? I love you.” “Markus! Markus, help!” “These eyes are the last thing you gave to me.” “Markus!” “Markus, how could I have hurt you so much?” “Father! Raythor!” “Sire, you owe me no favors.” The mirror said. Laura’s fist shot out, shattering the glass. Her reflection just laughed at her as it broke into a thousand pieces. She shook her hand. It was bleeding, but not as hard as she thought it would be. Something black came from the shards, flying up and entering her body, growing, changing. For a spilt second, her world was entirely blank. Then the black thing left her and circled into the sky.
****
When she woke up she was surrounded by people. Dasher’s face peered down at her worriedly, a wet rag clutched in her teeth that was dripping tiny drops down unto
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:49:19 GMT -5
Laura’s face. Markus had her hand but he wasn’t looking at her, he was talking to Blade. They seemed to be arguing about something, but she couldn’t make out the words, her mind was still too fuzzy. Dasher set the rag down next to her and announced: “Hey she’s awake.” “What happened?” Markus and Blade asked at the same time, and then glared at each other. “I said you were sleep walking.” Markus said. “I’m merely suggesting the possibility that she’s awakened the vessel half of her consciousness.” Blade put in. “They both won’t shut their traps.” Dasher finished. “I was sleepwalking,” Laura started and Markus looked triumphant, “but something really weird just happened. It could have been a dream though…” She glanced down at her hand and saw all the glass was out of it and the bleeding had stopped. “I healed it, but the mirror is broken. Saria was supposed to be cleaning up the glass…” Dasher said. Saria waved, almost dropping a shard of glass as she did. Dasher averted her eyes. “What happened?” Markus asked again. “I woke up in front of the mirror, and my reflection started talking to me. Eventually I broke it and this black thing came out, went into me, and then swirled into the sky.” “Did you come in contact with a powerful elementist?” Blade asked. She nodded. “Tobias. I couldn’t move when I saw him either, just like the mirror.” “I was right then. You have awakened the vessel part of you.” “Supposedly, it requires a powerful elementist as well as a mirror for the power of the vessel to leave the…hosts, I guess… body.” Dasher explained. “If all that’s true then you really must be Phoenix reborn.” “But what is the power of the vessel?” Laura asked. “I’ve certainly taken a life before. Does that mean that my father and Markus are going to disappear?” “No one even believes in the story of the vessel anymore. We can’t be sure what happens.” “Sabbath is… was… totally obsessed with it.” Nightshade commented. “Above all, the reverse world is a destroyer. It was meant to punish Phoenix for defying the prophet. That world is supposed to consume our world completely unless, like Phoenix, someone offers themselves to the gate between the two worlds.” “What, the whole two years in hell thing? I bet we’ll have people lining up for that.” Kylara said sarcastically. “Does it have to be someone specific?” Markus asked. “Do they have to be fully human or fully elementist?” “It has to be someone known as an ‘unbound soul’ who has witnessed death before. If they live the full two years in the reverse world they can come back to this one, like Phoenix did. I’m not sure if it will have the same consequences.” Nightshade said. “What’s an unbound soul?” Laura asked. “Because I caused this and I would be willing to fix it if I can.” “It’s someone who feels, or has felt that they have no one and could feel that way again fairly easily.” “Then I’ll do it.” Kylara said, smiling at Raythor as she did so.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:49:36 GMT -5
“Kylara,” Raythor said blandly, “You love me, don’t you?” “Yes.” “Then I’m a tie. It would be difficult for you to feel alone again. There must have been other people around you back when you worked for the assassin’s. People that you saw every day and didn’t want to lose.” “I bet I could fake it pretty well.” “Let me ask you one question… What side of the portal do you want to be on when my face disappears?” He asked. Rose hit his chest with her fist. “Don’t be such a god-damned hero, Raythor.” She almost screamed at him. “I can feel completely alone more than anyone else here can because I have been.” Raythor reasoned smoothly. “No one else can do this.” Then he shrugged. “Two years is nothing.”
****
“Get some sleep.” Markus said. Laura shook her head; she hadn’t left the hallway yet even though every one else had but her and Markus. “I can’t sleep. I know you’re tired though. You go get some sleep.” She insisted. “I don’t want to leave you out here alone.” “I don’t mind. I just need to think for awhile, that’s all.” “Are you sure?” “Yes, I’m sure.” “Come get me if you need me then. I love you.” “I love you too. See you in the morning.” Laura said. Markus kept looking back at her as he left and she had to try not to laugh. She leaned forward and stared at the window, sighing. “You don’t have to wander around all by yourself you know, Raythor.” She said. “Oh, I’m sorry I bothered you. I was just… wandering.” The dark haired boy answered. “Did you really volunteer because you think you’re the only one who fits?” “Partially.” “If you are dying, you don’t want Rose to see it. This is the only way to make sure she doesn’t.” “Yeah… that’s part of it too. If I don’t make it, at least no one will be used to having me around. Two years, you’ll all find some new messed up guy.” “If you really don’t make it… I’m so glad I met you, that I got to know you. You mean so much to so many of us.” “So do you, Laura. Try to get some sleep.” “You get some sleep. I’m not leaving tomorrow.”
Chapter Forty Two
Softly Beautiful
The next morning was very quiet. They started saying their goodbyes in the afternoon. Most of the Royalty of Everglade was leaving shortly, just so it would be
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:49:54 GMT -5
easier for Raythor to leave the next morning. Anella just refused to speak to him. Laura had talked him into spending one more day with them, even though she knew the portal was slowly getting bigger. They couldn’t look out the window without seeing the slight, spreading shadows in the sky. “Dasher, I meant what I said yesterday.” Blade said to the sulking light princess. She wasn’t talking to anyone, just sitting in the hallway and looking miserable. Blade didn’t seem to notice. “I wasn’t joking or trying to take advantage of you. I assure you that I’m not doing that now.” “What, so it doesn’t matter how I feel?” Dasher said grumpily. “How you feel is all that matters. I just wanted you to know.” “I suppose the fact our countries hate each other doesn’t bother you at all. There have never been shadow-light couples and shade children are a myth. We can’t be together.” “What about Markus and Laura? That’s almost the same: a peasant and a prince.” “This rift is a little deeper than that.” “You’re in love with him, aren’t you?” Blade said, smiling to himself. “He’s human, Dasher.” “I can be human…” Dasher whispered, than shook herself. “No, that’s not what I meant at all. I’m not in love with him.” “I think you are.” “You know what; I’m going to be thrilled when I never have to see your stupid face again!” “Then, my princess, let me grant you your wish.” Blade said very sarcastically. He turned and went back the way he had come. Dasher didn’t follow.
****
“Rea, we have to go. You’ve been away too long already.” Dione said. “Well, all right.” Rea said with a sigh. “We’ll see them at your wedding anyway. That won’t be long.” “Our horses are ready. We can make plans on the way home.” “Oh, that would be lovely.” She tottered off to get her horse. Dione gazed back one last time, whispering ‘good bye’.
****
“Markus?” Ketra walked up to the frowning boy, who blinked at her. “Hello Ketra. Did you want to say something?” “I’m going a day early, with father.” She grinned, prepared for the obvious objection. “What about Rose?” “She wants to ride back with you and Laura. I didn’t think you’d mind.” “Oh, sure. That will be nice.” “Fine then. I’d better get going. You know how father is. He’s already ranting about the embassy he’ll have to send to Laina, to prepare for…” “Let me think about that later.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:50:15 GMT -5
****
“Hey, Cally?” David asked. The castle was already behind them and they were all sad to leave it. Kaslon had been particularly depressed because he didn’t want to leave Saria, so they let him carry Emma. “Yes David?” Caldria said absently. She was thinking of her brother, and of Kenetari. Rose had told her Lydrion had been wearing a wedding ring, meaning that he’d actually married Kenetari. She supposed that made her in-laws with Raythor, which was a strange thought. Her brother had been so many things before he’d lost Kira. Now he’d killed Gabriel, taking the last shred of affection Caldria held out for him with it. If he was dead, he was dead. That meant that the boy she’d grown up with was dead as well… “The night before you disappeared… why were you crying?” David asked. “Lydrion threatened to kill you if I didn’t come with him that night. I just didn’t want to leave you.” Caldria said, which was really only a partial lie. She had thought that if she disappeared, David would assume that she’d left him and hate her. She didn’t need to tell him that. David trusted her, forgave her and let her have the benefit of the doubt, something he’d do for few others. Caldria loved him more completely than she ever had before. And now the three of them together would always be there to keep Emma safe.
****
Theo was escorting Firelight home. He had an almost perpetual smug look on his face; he could only imagine how proud his sister would be of him now. “Theo, I miss Blade. He looked so sad. I think he must have had another fight with Dasher.” Firelight said gloomily. “I miss Gabriel too.” “You’ll see Blade soon.” Theo soothed. “But not Gabriel… he used to tell me about all the flowers and tell me stories. He was so nice.” “Always remember what he told you then, and he won’t really be gone.”
****
“It looks like it might rain.” Markus noted blandly. “I think it was raining the night we left.” Laura said, stitching away again. “I remember because… never mind.” “What?” “It’s nothing really. I just remember telling the rain that I loved you because I thought I’d never say it again.” She blushed. He laughed. “So many things have changed.” Rose said. She was the only one still staring at the sky. “He’s out there. I hope it won’t rain.” “Gabriel can’t feel it, Rose.” Raythor said gently. “Besides, we buried him under that tree last night. That will protect him, don’t you think?” “Where are your parents buried?” “I don’t know. Maybe they weren’t.” He shrugged. Rose buried her face in her hands.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 1:50:38 GMT -5
“Why is there so much death in the world? It doesn’t make sense. You didn’t even get to know your parents.” “I don’t even remember them; don’t waste time worrying about me.” “You’re going away.” Rose explained. “I know that I yell at you all the time, but it’s like you’re my brother. I’m going to miss you.” “I’m going to miss you too.” “Why the hell are you being so nice to me?” “Because you’ve all changed me too much for my own good, and you just lost someone you cared about. Does that make sense?” “You always do. I wish that you didn’t have to go, but I see why you have to.” “So do I.” Kylara said, patting his arm. “Well, I don’t.” Anella said softly. “I’d go in a heart beat.” “You can’t,” Kylara said, “you just don’t understand.” “What do I possibly have to know to miss him? And I’m going to miss you terribly if you leave, Raythor. I’m going to feel alone.” “Don’t say that. I’m nobody and you’ll forget about me.” The dark haired boy responded. “Find someone who can be there for you when you need him.” “You aren’t nothing.” She almost yelled. “Can’t you see how important you are to all these people, or how much you matter to me? You’re the one who doesn’t understand. If you want me to forget you so badly, then I won’t come and say good bye to you tomorrow morning.” “What?” “I think you heard me.” She got up and left, almost running over Tyligo in the process. “There’s this little boy here,” Tyligo said uneasily, “Should I let him in, milady?” “Of course. He’ll get soaked out there soon.” Laura said. A moment later Benvolio was in the doorway, cat on his shoulders. “Please, let me explain.” Benvolio begged. “My father is dead, my sister, Kenetari, is gone and my brother is missing. I helped Caldria escape and I never wanted to hurt anyone.” “How can that be?” Kylara asked. “Raythor is-” “I know that.” “Jason Whitestar is your brother?” Markus asked. Benvolio nodded. “He’s gone ahead to Everglade. We’re going to help him rebuild. You’re welcome to travel with us and find your brother.” “I can’t ever hope to repay you. Thank you so much.” “That doesn’t matter. Do you need anything else, sweetheart?” Laura asked. “Is there a Raythor Karian here?” Benvolio asked. “That’s me.” He said, lazily raising his hand. “I just wanted you to know that Kenetari didn’t want to kill you. She told Jason that a long time ago.”
****
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