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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:20:04 GMT -5
him. “Raythor…” Anella repeated, kissing him. He smoothed the hair out of her face and whispered that he loved her.
Chapter Twenty Four Losing it
Rose supposed the good weather and the fact they were alive should have put her in a good mood. It didn’t. Markus and Laura were together, David and Caldria were together, even Kaslon and Saria were together. All she had was the fading memory of the boy she loved. And… and there was Raythor and Anella. He’d gone off to Raythor-land and Anella had gone with him. Rose hated that for reasons she couldn’t explain and had no desire to. It was like a little brother on his first date, which was totally irrational in itself. She knew full well that he and Anella were engaged, so they’d probably kissed more than that one time. Still, there was something… “Good morning, princess.” Ross said good-naturedly. “You look irritated this morning, which really isn’t a change from usual.” “Oh shut up.” Rose said, still staring at the forest. “Who else would I bother?” “You must have had someone before me.” “But you’re my favorite, princess.” “I know you’re not calling me that out of formality.” “I’m calling you that because I know it bothers you.” “Ugh, you’re just like Raythor.” “Ah, but I love myself.” “Yeah, I can tell.” Rose said, rolling her eyes. “Who the heck taught you just to shoot a bow anyway?” “William did,” Ross said, “he was going to teach me other weapons after the war.” “You can’t use a sword at all? Laura can use a sword, and she’s archer queen.” “I’ve never even held one.” “Here,” Rose said, unsheathing her sword. He raised an eyebrow. “You have to be kidding me.” “Take it. You’re going to be very useless to us once Laura’s arm heals.” “This has flowers all over it.” “I’m not asking you to marry it; I’m asking you to hold it.” Rose said. Ross reluctantly took the sword and held it awkwardly. “Now what?” Ross asked. “You’re holding it wrong.” She said, putting a hand over his to fix his grip. He smiled. “Hi.” “Shut up.” Rose said, blushing. She backed away. “Who made this sword?” Ross asked, lifting it slightly less awkwardly than before. “Gabriel did,” She told him, looking away. “Right before he died.” “You said his name. That’s good.” “I can’t see why it matters to you.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:20:20 GMT -5
“Because apparently I’m the only one stupid enough to mess with you. And don’t give me Raythor, yes you two argue, but none of you say anything really cutting. It’s more like two children fighting over who gets the bigger slice of bread.” “You don’t know anything about us.” “I’m learning fast. And…” Ross paused, eyes focused on the sword, “I’ve got a bit of a secret for you. You’re a little in love with Karian. And Markus too, actually. Both of them.” “That isn’t true.” Rose said, taking her sword back and sheathing it. “I was with Markus two years ago, just a little. Never with Raythor.” “If that was really true then you probably wouldn’t be staring at the place you last saw him like a lost little puppy.” “Well, what about you?” Rose burst. “What ever feelings you have for Anella are just because she’s a Rainbird! This is all really about William, because you let yourself become his shadow and you always want to be in his shadow! You’ve got nothing else to run and cling to!” “You don’t know anything about me,” Ross said, the truth in her words stinging him and the ice in his hurting her. He turned around and walked away, not once looking back. “Men!” Rose shrieked. “You’re all the same! All you ever do is run away from your problems!”
****
“Damn it, Laura, I’m fine!” Markus yelled, fingers going to his temples. “Did you just swear? I’ve never heard you swear.” Laura said, her voice unsteady. “And you’ve never yelled at me before either.” “There’s nothing wrong with me.” “We both know that’s not true.” “It’s just… the nightmares, and Kenetari, and the headaches… And, most of all, your miscarriage…” “Why didn’t you tell me about the headaches? Why did I have to guess?” “I didn’t want to worry you, not after what happened.” “Didn’t want to worry me?” Laura said, getting a little angry at him. It was something she hadn’t done in a very long time. “I know I lost our baby and it’s going to take a long time for both of us to get over it, but I’m still me. I’m not just Princess Elaura Everglade, I’m Laura Glasswater too, the same girl I was before we ever got married, before we slept together, before I miscarried. You can still tell me anything. You’re my best friend and I love you.” “I love you, too.” Markus said, with a tender note in his voice. “I’m sorry I yelled at you. The truth is… I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I feel terrible all the time, even when I’m with you. Sometimes I wish that I just wouldn’t wake up in the morning.” “Oh, Markus…” Laura said, eyes filling with concern. She hugged him with her one good arm, not caring about the pain that shot through the broken one. She felt his arms wind around her, felt his breath in her hair… Maybe…maybe the baby didn’t…matter…
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:20:57 GMT -5
“I never should have doubted you.” Markus whispered. “I take you for granted sometimes.” “How can I make you feel better?” Laura asked firmly. “I don’t know if you can, Laura. I don’t even know what I can do.”
****
“Your dad hit you, right?” Dione said, glancing at Lila. She jumped. “How did you know that?” Lila said nervously. “Mine did too. I can always tell.” “Really… what happened to him?” “I ran away, actually. Yours?” “My mother killed him.” “Jeez… that must have been scarring.” Dione said. Lila stared at her feet and nodded. “Well… not all men are bad like that, you know. My husband isn’t, and none of the guys here are.” “You have a husband?” “Yeah, he’s a knight. His name is James.” “I guess he wasn’t married when you met him…” “He was engaged… why do you ask?” “No reason…” Lila said, cheeks burning. Dione rolled her eyes and kept walking.
****
“So you just walk? Really?” Anella said. Raythor nodded. “It’s just to clear my head. It’s nothing exciting.” He shrugged. “It used to be because I wasn’t used to not being alone, now it’s just a habit. It helps me figure things out, though.” “To think all this time everyone wondered where you went.” “What, do you wish I actually had a bunny girlfriend so I wouldn’t ruin the suspense?” “No…” She said, furiously fighting back the pink in her cheeks. “I’m sorry I ever said that…” “Sometimes, near the end, I did think about you. I pretended to myself that I didn’t, but…” “I never admitted to myself that I loved you two years ago either.” “I couldn’t have.” “I understand. I couldn’t have either.” “Anella…” He turned to face her and he stopped walking as he did. “I’ve done so many terrible things to you.” “Could you name one?” Anella asked, smiling at him. “I left you.” “Yes, but you went through two years of…” She sighed, as if not wanting to remember. “Two years that felt like a thousand.” “It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.” Raythor said honestly. “That’s not surprising, lord of morbid death.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:21:13 GMT -5
“And I’m sure you were imaging a field of flowers the whole time.” He said teasingly. “You know, I love your name? It fits you so perfectly.” “You have changed,” She said, taking his hand and drawing him closer to her, “you never would have said that two years ago.” “I couldn’t see past my own pain two years ago.” He said. Anella glanced up at him, trying to look cheerful. “Life shouldn’t have to be like that… like yours was…” “I did it to myself. It’s nothing for you to feel sorry for. And if I had to go through everything I went through just to be with you now, then I don’t regret it at all.” “How could you live like that? Having everyone hate you for something you never did and everyone treat you like Lila does?” “Because I hated myself. And I was used to it, I grew up that way and I didn’t really feel it anymore.” “You don’t anymore, do you?” “Not like I used to.” “Well… well you shouldn’t, not at all.” “It’s true, I shouldn’t.” Raythor agreed. He put a hand behind her neck and smiled at her. “Why don’t we talk about something else?” “You know every peasant here thinks you’re the new serial killer.” Anella said. “If we find out who it really is, maybe we can…” “Anella, it’s all right. Once we’re out of Caltha, we’ll never have to deal with my past again. It’ll be over, I promise you.” “You’re never going to forget it.” “I’m sorry you have to be with me. So much for your happily ever after.” “You’re better than prince charming.” Anella told him, finally smiling. He kissed her lightly, smiling too. “You’ve never met prince charming.” Raythor told her. “On the contrary, Markus and I are good friends.” Anella said and he laughed. “Yes, especially because of the almost kiss.” “He…he told you about that? He said he wouldn’t.” “It was because of the moonlight…” “I did have a crush on him, he’s so kind and handsome… but it was just a crush, I was never in love with him.” “Were you in love with me?” Raythor asked, looking away. She put a hand against his cheek. “Of course I was. That’s why I got so mad at you in the first place.” Their lips met again and they drew closer together. “Let’s get married right when we get home.” Anella said, a little breathlessly. “Aren’t your parents going to be bothered by the fact I don’t have a house, a job, or any sort of family?” Raythor said, amused. “My parents? Oh my goodness!” She gasped. “I forgot about them! They’ve never even heard your name before.” “Yes, and when they do, they’re going to say oh my god it’s that terrible murderer-” “Raythor!” Rose cried, coming to an abrupt halt in front of them. “Stop playing face tag with Anella, I need you!””
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:21:30 GMT -5
“Face tag?” Raythor said dryly, as he and Anella moved as far away from each other as physically possible. Anella was so embarrassed that she could barely speak. “Really Rose? Face tag?” “Well what would you call it?” “I think I might just call it-” “Never mind. Ross just got hurt and he’s belly aching about it.” Rose started off and Raythor and Anella soundlessly followed her.
****
Ross was a little scared to look at his own knee. A shadow elementist, no doubt one of Lydrion’s, had jumped out in front of him and cast some terrible painful spell on his knee. He’d heard it crack before he’d fallen over, maybe even right in half. The mind numbing pain hadn’t stopped since. Fortunately, Rose had followed him when he took off and had gone to get help. He closed his eyes and gritted his teeth hoping that, for the love of mercy, Rose would hurry. “Ross,” Anella’s voice said, though it sounded far away. She knelt next to him and put her fingers cautiously on either side of the wound, gasping slightly at what she saw. Ross’s knee looked as though it has imploded on itself. It was oozing blood and leaking all sorts of liquids that she didn’t particularly want to identify. “We have to get Dasher.” “Is that the bone?” Rose asked, with poorly veiled disgust. “Sure is,” Raythor said with exaggerated grimness, “See, right there, to the left of-” “Stop it right now. That is so gross!” “Sorry,” He said, kneeling next to Anella, “we need to move fast. Rose, go find Dasher… please.” “Thank you,” Rose returned primly, turning and running off. “Can we do anything?” Anella asked, almost involuntarily drawing back her fingers. “Not much.” Raythor admitted. “Oh Anella, just the fact that you’re here is helping.” Ross said. “You look like an angel.” Raythor resisted the urge to punch Ross in the knee, and instead pulled out his flask and unstopped it. “Hold him, this is going to hurt.” The dark haired boy said, perhaps a little too cheerfully. Anella nodded, taking a gentle hold of Ross’s arm. Raythor carefully poured the contents of his flask over the blonde boy’s wound, which caused the latter to cry out. “That…stings…” Ross said, through gritted teeth. “It’s good for you. Most of it’s just water anyway, because Saria takes it and drinks it.” Raythor said. “Anella, do you have a cloth or something on you?” “Um… no…” Anella said. She shifted and tore a strip off the bottom of her dress. “Will this work?” “It’ll have to.” He replied, taking it from her. “This will probably hurt too.” “Of course it will.” Ross said unhappily, still wincing. Anella wrapped her arms around him and he relaxed very slightly, smiling at her. Raythor’s expression faded back into a blank mask and he took the makeshift cloth and began dabbing it around the wound.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:21:45 GMT -5
He tore the rag in half and tied it on either side of Ross’s knee. Then Raythor cleaned it with alcohol again, which caused Ross to admit a low groan. “I can’t do anything else without moving the bone fragments, and that would be excruciatingly painful.” Raythor said. “Hopefully we won’t have to.” “Is there anyway to make the…blood… stop faster?” Anella said. “Not unless we apply pressure directly to it, which I don’t think Ross wants.” “No way in hell.” Ross said, grimacing at the thought. “Why are you doing this for me, Karian?” “Because you’re one of us now.” Raythor said coolly. “And you need our help.” “Really?” “You’re Anella’s cousin.” “Ah.” Ross said. He felt a hand on his shoulder and he shivered. “Hello, little brother.” Kenetari said with sinister affection, staring at Raythor. “Is that the real you?” Raythor asked carelessly, removing the bits of Ross’s clothing from his knee. Ross screamed again. “Heaven and hell,” Ross protested, “do you have to do that?” “Yes, or Dasher would have sealed it in your leg and you’d have continuous leg pain.” “In case you haven’t noticed, I already have continuous leg pain!” The blonde boy pointed out. Kenetari took hold of Ross’s hair and pulled upward viciously. Raythor got to his feet, drawing his sword. Anella did too, trembling slightly. “My own brother didn’t tell me he was engaged,” Kenetari said, with fake sorrow. “I’m hurt, really.” “What do you want?” Raythor demanded. “I just missed you so.” She taunted, taking a step toward Anella. Raythor tried to move in front of her, but she shook her head. “I can fight now too.” Anella said. Raythor forced himself not to smile. “I’m not going to let you hurt him again.” “The two of you are my favorite couple,” Kenetari said, ignoring the fact that Ross was staring up at her with fear, “it must be so nice to hold her in your arms.” “I’m not playing your games anymore,” Raythor said venomously. Kenetari met his eyes and saw something there that she never had before: hope. He wanted to live, he wanted to be happy. He had Anella and the Royalty of Everglade. To Kenetari, that only meant that he now had something to lose. Something she could take away from him. Her gaze shifted to Anella. Her brother had fallen apart so completely when she’d almost died. If she were to really die… “Kenetari,” Rose said as she ran up, more automatically than anything else. Dasher stood at her side, star already blazing. “Goodbye,” Kenetari said flippantly, waving her hand. Ghost dashed out and they both disappeared in a flash of light.
****
“Why are you both holding my arms?” Ross asked suspiciously, looking back and forth between Rose and Anella.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:22:13 GMT -5
“We’ve got some bad news,” Raythor said, not sounding like he thought it was bad news at all. “What, Karian? What’s the bad news?” “We’re going to have to move the bone slightly.” “You told me you wouldn’t have to!” “I lied. I didn’t want to worry Anella.” “Worry Anella? She may be one of the least squeamish women on the entire continent.” “Well, yeah, she is my girlfriend. If she wasn’t used to blood she couldn’t possibly come near me.” “Raythor…” Anella said. “Sorry. Moving the bone now. Dash?” “Can’t I at least get a real healer?” Ross asked. “I know Laura’s out of it, but what about Tallith? Or Lila, I’d even take her. She’s starting to grow on me anyway, what with her incredible fear of you.” “She’s afraid of men, which is why you don’t bother her.” Raythor said blankly. Ross opened his mouth to respond, but Dasher cut in with: “Raythor has a perfect memory. Anything he’s seen the healers do, he remembers, so I’m afraid he’s your best bet at the moment. Now are you ready?” “Just one question. What is a perfect memory?” “You don’t want one.” Raythor said. “Let’s go, Dasher.” “Sounds good.” Dasher said, and she made Raythor’s hands start to glow with light. He focused on Ross’s knee and started working on it. Ross shut his eyes, biting down hard and trying not to scream again. Raythor moved back and Dasher stepped forward and mended the flesh back together. “Well,” Ross said, opening his eyes, “that was unimaginably painful.” “Raythor only screamed one time when we had to remove all the blood from his lungs.” Rose sniffed. “Crybaby.” “Yes, I should just admit my innate inferiority to Karian right here and now.” “Nonsense, both of you are stupid beyond words.” “Raythor’s not stupid.” Anella whispered. “Oh… and neither is Ross.” “Thanks.” Ross said insincerely. Raythor glared at him. “Let’s get him back to the nice warm fire.” Dasher suggested, sensing a fight coming on. “Can I walk on this?” “Not really. Raythor and Anella will support you, don’t worry.” “That’s exactly what I was worried about.”
****
“Markus, I’ve been meaning to tell you…” Ross said, taking a bit out of the food Saria had handed him. He pulled it back and examined it, realizing for the first time he had no idea what it was. Knowing Saria, it was probably best not to ask. “When I was at the border, and they told me no one could get in or out of Caltha but someone did. I’m sure they were from Everglade, so that means the King knows what’s happened.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:22:58 GMT -5
“If we can find the Gladian soldiers, we can get out of here.” Kaslon said eagerly, bouncing up and down. Saria giggled. “Never doubt my father.” Markus agreed. He stared into the fire, the exact same way Laura was. Ketra squeezed his shoulder. “He’s going to find us. It’s going to be fine.” Ketra said. The prince nodded, but his gaze didn’t leave the fire. “Laura,” Raythor said, whispering something in her ear. She laughed, snapping out of her trance, and he smiled. “That really isn’t nice, you know.” Laura told him. “Yeah, I know. But hey, it’s true.” “What did you say?” Rose asked. He leaned over and whispered in her ear too. She laughed too. “You’re right, it is true.” “It’s about me, isn’t it?” Ross said. Laura and Rose started laughing again. Kylara caught Raythor’s eye and grinned, but he looked away. “Corrupting my wife again, Raythor?” Markus asked, finally shaking himself. “Somebody has to, Markus. Try and do a better job.” Raythor replied. “I mean, look what I’ve done to Anella.” “Hey!” Anella protested. “I’m exactly like I was two years ago.” “Sure, miss ‘I can fight now’.” “That was Markus’s fault.” “I stand corrected. You’ve done a marvelous job.” “When did you become the one cheering everyone else up?” Rose asked. “You used to make vampires look as cheerful as Laura on her wedding day.” “You have some really bizarre sayings.” Ross noted, still cradling his knee. “Come over here and I’ll suck your blood.” Raythor offered, baring his teeth. He grinned. “No way I want your lips that close to my neck.” Rose said, grimacing. Anella turned slightly red. Rose glanced at her. “Aha.” “What?” Anella said nervously. “You’re the reason he’s so disturbingly happy.” “Why wouldn’t she be the reason?” Tallith said, with a slightly gloomy air. “Do they make you nauseous too, Rose?” Markus asked. “They don’t go and kiss in the hallway where everyone can see them, now do they?” Rose said. “Though he does look at Anella with puppy eyes on occasion.” Raythor bared his teeth at her again and she backed up a step. “You do.” Anella said teasingly. Raythor raised his eyebrows in mock surprise. “Anella, how could you tarnish my reputation as a rock face like that?” “Because you’re a terrible murderer, that’s why.” “Now they’re making me nauseous, Markus. I blame you.” Rose said. “Aw, I’m sorry Rose.” Markus said. “You, Laura and I could find a hallway, if that will make you feel better.” “Ew. Don’t be vile.” “The fire’s getting really low.” Ross commented lazily. “Someone should get up. Not me, though. I have a serious leg injury.” “You’re just seriously lazy. And whiny.” Rose retorted.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:23:14 GMT -5
“I’ll go.” Lila said, getting up. She glanced at the darkening sky. “Would… would someone go with me?” “I will.” Blade offered. He yawned and padded next to Lila.
Chapter Twenty Five King Audrion
Lila shrieked. She ran right into a large, black haired man and he glared down at her with an incredible intensity. Blade’s ears flicked up, he recognized this human king even if Lila did not. Whether or not Audrion recognized him was a different matter entirely… he knew the elementists presence at Markus’s wedding had been a sore point between the blue haired prince and his father. “King Audrion, sire.” Blade said, dropping into a canine bow. “King?” Lila said, speedily retreating to Blade’s side. She curtsied. “I’m sorry, sire, really…” “You’re one of Markus’s friends, aren’t you?” Audrion said, squinting through the darkness at Blade with distain. Blade nodded, standing upright once more. “Prince Markus will be overjoyed to see you, sire. If you would follow me, I can show you where he is.” “Good. I want to be finished with this mess as quickly as possible. Move on.” Audrion waved his hand. Blade turned and started into a reasonable trot and Lila attempted to look invisible and still keep up. A squad of Gladian soldiers brought up the rear.
****
Markus listened patiently to the expected lecture about his carelessness, poor choice of friends, and general failings. He nodded when it was required of him, and said ‘yes father’ or ‘no father’ when needed. Then he braced himself. “Father?” Markus said, when the lecture had apparently drawn to a close. “I have to tell you something.” “What?” Audrion barked, eyes narrowing. “Laura got pregnant.” “Excellent news.” “But she lost the baby.” The prince said. A terribly heavy silence hung between them. Audrion folded his arms over his chest and glanced at his son, for the first time noticing the pain in his eyes. Markus knew in that instant that he wanted something and that he always had. He just wanted his father to tell him he wasn’t a failure and a mistake and a disappointment. Just before he left for Caltha, Audrion had told his son he loved him… and it had been the first time. Markus knew it was going to be the only time as well. And that one moment, in which Audrion made the prince feel like someone worthwhile, hadn’t been enough to make up for nineteen years of lectures and nineteen years of disappointment. “How?” Audrion said finally. Markus gazed at his father with disbelief. He hadn’t been expecting that.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:24:13 GMT -5
“She fell. It was my fault.” His looked down at his feet. “I’m sorry father. I’m sorry…” “What happened?” “The floor gave out beneath her, and I didn’t make it to her in time. Laura had nothing-” “I’m sorry.” “What?” “That must have been difficult. Is she alive?” “Y-yes…” “Markus…” Audrion said hesitantly. His eyes looked far away, all of a sudden. “Never mind. I have to ask you to remain in Caltha. It’s for your own safety. If you could just stay here for one more month, your safety would be secured.” “What?” Markus demanded. “I’m responsible for everyone here. Staying in Caltha means putting them at risk. And Laura-” “I know I haven’t been the perfect father, but I need you to listen to me as you always do. Right now, it seems insane but it’ll all make sense soon. Just trust me. Tell them what ever lie you want to explain yourself.” Audrion said. Their eyes met again. The king saw some of his own fire in Markus’s gray irises and he smiled. “Father…” “There is no choice for you here. Do what you must. It is the best for Everglade.” “Yes, father.” “If Elaura is unable to bear children, we have a very serious problem to deal with. I have made many allowances for this marriage, Markus.” “I know…” “Luckily, there is the possibility of annulment-” Audrion said, but stopped short when he realized that his son was hugging him and sobbing on to his shoulder. The king had absolutely no idea what to do. “Markus?” “Please, father… please just tell me I’m not worthless. Tell me I haven’t done all this for no reason…” Markus pleaded. “Tell me that you know I love her…” Audrion didn’t touch his son. “I knew you loved her before you did. And no crown prince is worthless.” “Thank you.” Markus said, pulling back and putting his hands at his sides. The tears had stopped and he looked at his feet once again. “I’m sorry… that wasn’t at all controlled or formal. You are the king and I am a prince. I will not act like that again. I will do what is best for Everglade. Goodbye, father. I trust you.” Audrion nodded with approval, and turned to walk away. Before he left, he hesitated. But then he was gone.
****
“My father has some important business to attend to in Caltha, concerning the revolution.” Markus said. “He requests that we remain here for another month, in order to assure our own safety. Then he will return to escort us back to Everglade.” There was a series of groans. “You have to be joking. Stay in Caltha?” Kaslon moaned. “We don’t have the supplies to survive here much longer, nor do we have any assurance that we will even be alive in a month.” Kylara argued.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:24:29 GMT -5
“The king has left us enough food to last a month.” Ketra said stonily. “That doesn’t put us in any less danger.” “You don’t have to remain with us.” “None of you do.” Markus added quickly. “You are free to leave of your own initiative at any time.” “As if you don’t know full well that that spells death.” Kylara said hostilely. “We are much more likely to make it across in a large group than alone.” “I’m staying here, even though if they catch me they’ll literally rip me to shreds.” Raythor said, and it was half a challenge. “Anyone else want to leave?” The grumblings slowly died down, and Markus gave Raythor a grateful smile. “Markus,” Laura said, beckoning him over to her. He turned and they walked a few feet away from the rest of the group. “What’s really going on?” “I’m not entirely sure, sweetheart.” Markus confessed. “My father showed up and told me to stay here for my own safety. I have no idea if he’s coming back, or where he’s going.” “Can’t you just tell them that?” “It was hard enough to put them in danger for no real cause. It would be worse for one I don’t know.” The prince looked at her worriedly. “Especially you, we need to get you to the royal doctor and a real bed. It can’t be good for you to live like this.” “Then why are you letting me? Why do you always put what he wants first?” Laura asked. “Because he knows what’s best for Everglade.” “But not for you. When are you going to see that?” “I married you, didn’t I? I proved to him that I’m not going to lie down and die all the time.” He kissed her, but she pulled away, looking unhappy. “Laura…” “It’s just… Audrion…” Laura sighed. “He’s been trying to keep us apart all our lives, and you let him most of the time.” “I don’t think we’ve been kept that far apart if you were pregnant with my child.” Markus said, trying to lighten the mood. She looked at him blankly. “Oh…yes…” “Laura,” The prince took her hands, forcing her to meet his eyes. “Sweetheart… I love you, and nothing my father does is going to change that. I never told you, but I had to convince him a lot of times to let you stay with me. I used the engagement against him more times than I could count.” “What…what do you mean?” She asked. “I threatened to break it and tell you I loved you if he sent you away.” He said softly. Laura’s eyes widened. “You mean you… you loved me before…?” She said. He nodded, now unable to look at her. “Yes… when I was twelve, and you kissed me on the cheek. I think I knew then… And I could never let my father… even if it meant…” Laura pulled him up against her and kissed him. They stayed like that for a long time, forgetting everything else.
****
“They were fighting?” Rose said with disbelief. “Markus and Laura?” Really?”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:24:48 GMT -5
“That’s what it sounded like.” Blade said, ears back. “I didn’t mean to listen, but my hearing is very… acute.” “So what? Every couple fights sometimes.” Ross said, shrugging. “You don’t understand.” Rose said. “Not those two. They’re almost disgustingly perfect- heck, leave out almost. They’ve been romantically involved for two years, and I never once saw them fight.” “Well, it was last night and they sure seemed to make up fast.” “Yes, but the fact it happened at all…” “I’m sure it’s because of the miscarriage. Their emotions are both running very high, particularly after seeing Audrion. I mean, who knows what he said to Markus.” Dasher rationalized. “Perhaps Ross is right… we needn’t make such a big thing out of it.” “But they’re Markus and Laura.” Rose stressed both their names. Blade glanced at her, and she could tell Blade agreed, but he clearly wasn’t saying anything. “My father just doesn’t know when to quit.” Ketra said icily. “He’s going to keep doing this to Markus until he breaks- and he won’t care when that happens.” “But Audrion is his father…” Lila said quietly, and Ketra gave her a surprised look. “Where’s Raythor? He’ll get what I’m saying.” Rose said, hands on her hips. “He left with Anella, if you know what I mean.” Ross said. He turned his hands into dog shadow puppets and made them kiss. Rose stared at him disparagingly. “What? That is all new couples want to do, trust me on this one.” “It is?” Lila said curiously. “Ever heard the expression ‘guys only want one thing’?” Ross asked. “Raythor isn’t like that.” Rose scoffed. “What is it?” Lila piped up again. Everyone else stared at her. “I’m not touching that one.” Blade said. “Well, Lila-” Ross started, and Rose smacked him. “No corrupting children. Bad Ross.” The princess said haughtily. “I’m fifteen!” Lila protested. “I want to know!” “When I was fifteen, I was still engaged to blue boy.” “You were engaged to Markus? Really?” “Yeah… a royal thing. I broke it, we both did really. He belongs with her anyway.” “Aren’t we a mush today?” Ross said. “A mush?” Rose said skeptically. “What can I say? I’m developing Rose disease, where you make up ridiculous sayings and use them in sentences as if they are normal.” “If he belongs with her, why are they fighting?” Lila said with a bit of an edge, blinking. “Ooo, pretty boy has got her now.” Ross said laughing. Lila turned a little red and hugged her knees. “And, you know what Lila; you don’t seem to be scared of men anymore.” “I’m… not, really. I’m scared of what some of them could do to me.” Lila said. “But… all of us are angels and devils on the inside, right? It just seems that some of us chose which one to show all the time. And I felt sure the Karian Killer…” “With a name like that, it was a safe bet.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:25:22 GMT -5
“I thought that too.” Blade said, which made Dasher glare at him. “The real Karian Killer is like that.” Ketra pointed out, and they all shivered at the thought of Kenetari. “We’ve really got to keep on our guard, if we have to stay here another month.” Ross said. “Because if she catches us, she’ll literally rip us to pieces.”
****
Raythor pressed his lips against hers, but he couldn’t stop smiling long enough to really kiss her. “I’m sorry,” He said, laughing. “I just…” “I’ve never seen you this happy,” Anella said. “I like it.” “It’s all because of you. I’m really starting to believe that we’re going to get married and all that. I love being with you.” “You have no idea how wonderful that makes me feel.” “When did we get so fluffy, huh?” He laughed again. Anella put her hand against his cheek, smiling too. “Raythor?” “Yeah?” “You need me too, right? Because when I cried and you held me… do you need me like that?” “Of course I do. You’ve been there for me more times than I could count.” Raythor put his hands on her shoulders and squeezed them gently. “I mean… when I’m withdrawing… you’re the only one who has ever pulled me out of it.” He kissed her again, this time holding it. She held the sound of his laughter in her ears.
****
Roland’s fever had finally faded. Laura insisted on switching off with the other healers like she normally did, but Dasher and Tallith secretly gave her less time than they had, and made up for it with Lila’s help. She didn’t seem to catch on, though it took a full week after Audrion’s appearance for Roland’s health to return entirely. Laura was drifting away more and more and it scared all of them. Markus and Laura’s fights were also rapidly increasingly in frequency, and they were getting worse and worse. Markus himself seemed to be spiraling downward much faster than his wife was, though she certainly was not in the best shape. Rose would walk off by herself, covering her ears, to tune out their yelling. Sometimes she stayed out so long Raythor would have to find her and bring her back. Through all this, the dark haired boy’s good mood didn’t wane and slowly he was the one deciding when they moved and where they slept. Markus just didn’t seem to care anymore. This, combined with the three weeks they had remaining in Caltha, was putting almost everyone else on edge. “Raythor,” Rose said tiredly. “Someone has to help them sort this out.” “The fact you trust me to do anything is really a bad sign.” Raythor said. “You should get more sleep. I bet we could ask Markus to stop-” “Markus is a frigging puppet prince at this point.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:25:53 GMT -5
“He’s trying.” Anella said. “Not hard enough.” Rose snapped. “What do you want me to say?” Markus’s voice broke over theirs. “He’s my father!” “Don’t I matter to you at all?” Laura joined in. “Why is Audrion’s opinion the only one that makes a difference to you?” “That’s completely ridiculous!” “No it isn’t!” “Shut up!” Markus said. “I’m sick of having this same conversation with you! If you didn’t believe me the first time I said it, why would you believe it now?” Rose groaned and covered her ears. “Not again. That’s the third time this morning.” The princess said, visibly upset. “They’ll make up again, they always do.” Anella said. “Yes but… they used to be…” Rose rubbed her eyes. “I never thought I’d say this… they used to be like you and Raythor. The two of you make me sick… you know what, you don’t. They do. If I have to listen to that again I’m going to scream until I shatter my own eardrums.” “Let’s try and talk to them, Anella.” Raythor said. “I don’t know what else we can do.” “Maybe that’s for the best.” Anella agreed, letting out all the air in her lungs. He gave her the smile that was becoming natural and easy and she couldn’t help but smile back. “Markus,” Anella said. She gestured for him to follow her, and Raythor did the same with Laura. “Good morning.” Markus said, with stiff formality. Anella put a hand on his shoulder. “Markus, we need to talk.” She said. He nodded. “About what?” “About what? About… about you and Laura. About everything that’s happened since she lost the baby.” “How can I explain to you what I don’t understand?” “I’m engaged to Raythor. He is… was… one of the most dark, depressing people I have ever met and I love him anyway. If I can’t help you understand, then I know nothing about him.” “I guess that’s true...” The prince ran his hand through his hair. “But… you like the way he is, right? Even before?” “Well, yes.” “I’m not so sure Laura does anymore.” Markus said. Anella felt as though her heart had stopped beating. “How can you say that? All couples fight.” Anella said. “And I know you used to be the couple that never fought, the happily ever after, the ones all of us were jealous of. You still are, Markus. You just have to give each other time to get over this. You’re yelling at each other because you feel safe doing it. If Laura was really afraid of losing you, she wouldn’t fight with you at all. She knows that all the things you’ve been though together and all the years you’ve spent together means something, and so should you.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:26:11 GMT -5
And… I still want to be like you two someday. You’re still perfect; you’ve just been cracked a little on the outside.” “Anella…” Markus said. “Dear god, I hope you’re right.”
Chapter Twenty Six It’s not real
“Markus!” Laura called, running up. Though the time limit given by Audrion had expired, a sand storm had left them trapped in Caltha for an extra month. In that time, things between them hadn’t really improved, despite the best efforts of everyone else. “What, sweetheart?” Markus asked. For the first time, he looked at her and felt absolutely nothing. Every inch of his body was numb, he couldn’t bring himself to smile, even to think. He was falling and there was no way he could stop it. “The village closest to here is completely destroyed.” Laura told him. “Oh,” Markus said, without much interest. Laura bit her lip hard. Every time she met his eyes she wanted to cry, they were so empty and so dead, no longer dancing with innocence, no longer the eyes of a child. He wasn’t the Markus she had fallen in love with anymore. He wasn’t the prince she had spent her life with. “I guess we should keep moving, now that the storm’s past. We’ll take a different route.” “How long do you think it will take?” “I don’t know.” “Do you want me to keep pretending that nothing’s wrong?” Laura burst out. “I’m losing you, Markus! I don’t think you even love me anymore!” “I don’t feel anything. Yesterday, I still had something left. Now it’s all gone.” “Markus,” Laura said, clinging to his name with desperation. She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him fervently. The tears started to fall and she didn’t fight them. She pulled back and he just stared at her. He hadn’t kissed her back. “Markus…” “I still love you, but I can’t…” He shook his head, not understanding it himself. “I can’t…” Laura buried her face in her hands and started sobbing uncontrollably. “It’s my fault… I let go…it’s my fault…” She said hysterically. “If I hadn’t lost the baby…” “Laura,” He said, but it didn’t mean anything. Her shoulders shook and her voice quavered and he didn’t move.
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Markus and Laura were both sleeping, but no one else was. Her face was streaked with dirt where the tears had dried; his was unnervingly calm, even in sleep. “I don’t understand it,” Alice said, “They were so close, from what I can tell. What happened?” “I don’t know,” Anella said, looking severely upset herself. “He’s shut down so completely.” Raythor said. “He can’t do that to her.” Rose declared angrily. “I don’t think he’s doing it to her. I don’t think this is even about Laura.” Ketra said, staring straight ahead. “All the pressure, all the things he’s held back or never
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