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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:32:41 GMT -5
Pressure
They both sat on the stairs, not quite ready to go out and face everyone else. Markus watched blankly as Laura tied her hair back up. She looked over at him, slightly flushed. “I can’t believe we just…” Laura said. He nodded in agreement. “I mean, we haven’t since the miscarriage.” “No…” She gave him a lingering kiss. “I feel somehow… more normal now.” “Yeah, me too.” Markus said. He sighed quietly. “How long have we been up here?” “I don’t know. We should probably go down, I suppose.” She got up and so did he. Markus put an arm around her waist, smiling at her. “I love you, Laura.”
****
“Where are the wonder twins?” Rose asked irritably, deliberately not glancing Ross’s way. He was grinning to himself, but he was also no where near her, as he had managed to get lost in the sea that was the Royalty of Everglade. “They said they’d be right out.” Ketra said, shrugging as well as lying. She hadn’t seen or heard from them since she’d left. “Maybe I should go get them.” “No, I’m sure they’re fine.” “That’s princess for ‘shut up’.” Raythor said. Rose glared at him. “I am a princess.” She pointed out. “I’ll admit that when you start acting like one.” “You’re already acting like a grubby peasant boy.” “I try.” “You’re such an idiot!” “He’s not an idiot.” Anella said automatically. “Who said you could bring in reinforcements?” Rose demanded. “She’s free lance.” Raythor retorted. “You get so defensive when I mess with her.” “Do I?” “Yes.” Rose said cattishly. “Because you love her.” “Yeah,” Raythor agreed, “I do.” “Huh?” “I asked her to marry me, didn’t I?” “I guess…” “What’s to guess about?” “Are the two of you fighting again?” Markus asked, coming out of the house with Laura right behind him. She was holding his hand and smiling, but his expression was a lot more apprehensive. “That’s…your voice.” Rose said. “It usually is.” Markus said lightly. “Not lately.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:33:13 GMT -5
“I’m… I apologize, Rose.” “It’s all right, pretty boy. It’s not your fault.” “Yes it is.” “Don’t be so disgustingly noble.” “That’s just… me. I’m just me.” Markus said, his voice becoming a little desperate. “I really did not sleep with Laura.” Raythor cut in suddenly. “I swear on my life.” “Your life?” Rose said skeptically. “Rose!” Anella said. “All right… on the life of someone who matters.” Raythor said, glancing at Anella with some slight guilt. “I know that now.” Markus interrupted, to prevent another fight. He seemed slightly embarrassed. “Good, because you really looked like you wanted to kill me.” “I did, actually. Very badly.” “Why are you bleeding?” Laura asked with a frown. “My sister dropped by for a visit.” Raythor said carelessly. “It’s nothing bad. If Dasher could look at Anella’s hand…” “Treat him first.” Anella said. “Lila?” Dasher said. Lila mouthed the name ‘Raythor’ and the light princess nodded. Her star flashes and the entire upper half of Raythor’s body lit up. The star flashed again to heal Anella’s hand and the gash across her chest. “I forgot about the dead elementist.” Markus said, snapping his fingers. “I’m not sure what element it is.” “Show me.” Dasher said. He nodded and the two of the disappeared inside. “Are you two… all right now?” Raythor asked cautiously. “Yes.” Laura said. “He’s sort of acting like I’m the one who’s been gone. It’s nice.” “You have been, in a way.” “Not like he was.”
****
Dasher padded up to the forehead of the dead elementist and stared at it blankly. It looked like a heart, but it couldn’t be. She studied the rest of the body. Gray fur, white legs, shadow tail, bird wings… some sort of half breed. “When did the spell on you stop?” Dasher asked. “The second it died.” Markus said. “So it’s part shadow… but I don’t see any earth markings and the wings are too light weight to be spirit. What does the symbol look like to you?” “A heart.” “Yes, but it can’t be a heart.” “Why not? What does that mean?” “A shade, but there are no shades.” “That’s a… light-shadow?”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:33:46 GMT -5
“Yes.” Dasher said shortly. “They’re all dead.” She glanced idly at the paw and her eyes opened wide. No claws. That didn’t make any sense. Only li- “It is a shade.” She said incredulously. Dasher couldn’t believe the force of that one sentence, how much it meant to her… “Dash…” Markus said, trying as hard as he could to understand. “I could… I could get Blade for you.” “No…” Dasher said. “I… I can’t do that to him. I can’t give him hope. Even if… this just… you understand, don’t you?” “What’s its like not to be alone anymore, not to feel like a freak?” Markus said. She nodded solemnly. “I understand how that would feel.” “We’re going to tell him it was a light, but you couldn’t tell because of their darker markings. All right?” “All right.” “It’s what I have to do.” Dasher said, more to herself. “It’s the only thing I can do.”
****
“Raythor,” Kylara said, roughly grabbing his shoulder. He sighed. “What, oh favorite person?” “Do you think Anella loves you?” “Yes.” Raythor said. He turned to face her, staring her down. “Did everything you said the night Anella got hurt mean anything at all?” “Of course it did.” Kylara said, with a completely unrecognizable look on her face. “Kylara, I thought that was the real you. I thought behind all the arrogance and the ice and the vanity, there was something good inside of you. You’re never going to be what I need or what I want, and I’m never going to love you but I thought maybe I could tolerate you.” He said harshly. Kylara narrowed her eyes. “Are you telling me all that was a lie?” “What exactly did I tell you?” “You told me you were stepping back and leaving us alone. You… you told me…” “You can’t even say it.” “You told me to ask her to marry me.” Raythor said, a little too loudly. Kylara smirked and he realized that Anella was there staring at both of them. Anella looked totally shocked. “What?” She said, before she could stop herself. “Anella, she did suggest that but-” Raythor started, but she was already gone. He turned on Kylara, gripping her shoulders. “You knew she was standing there.” “So? I just got you to tell the truth.” Kylara said. “I’m helping.” She laughed. “If I was the killer you want me to be I would snap your neck right now.” He went after Anella and Kylara kept laughing. “Were you joking?” Anella asked, turning her head. Raythor hesitated, shaking his head. “The night you got hurt, I was completely out of it… I slipped and told her that I loved you, or she guessed…” Raythor said, stumbling. “And she started acting like a
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:34:42 GMT -5
normal person, like she understood. When she said it would be easier for her to let me go if I asked you to marry me…” “So you listened to her?” “It’s just…” He mumbled something and she gave him an odd look. “Raythor?” “It hadn’t occurred to me to ask you to marry me. I mean, I don’t think that way, because of how…” He shook his head, grinning. “There I go blaming the past again. The truth is I’m an idiot. It would have taken me years to work up the nerve to ask you that, just like it took me years to tell you that I loved you. I know none of this is really an excuse…” “Maybe she did something right then.” Anella said, her expression softening. “Because I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Even if that means living with Kylara and Rose and…” “My sister.” “She just came so close this time. She’ll just keep trying to kill you and torture you and break you. Eventually, she’s going to.” “What about you?” “You wouldn’t let her hurt me.” “She did hurt you. She almost killed you and there was nothing I could do.” “Because you couldn’t move!” “I can’t lose you, Anella. I’m not as strong as you think I am.” Raythor said, scowling into nothing. “I can’t protect you forever either…” “Raythor,” She said, biting her lip and wondering whether or not to tell him. “There’s something about the moonlight that… I haven’t told you.” “What?” He asked, looking up curiously. He got the familiar sense of being unable to look away. “Anella,” Laura said, walking up suddenly. “I need your help.” “What is it?” Anella asked, turning quickly. “It’s just…” She looked at Raythor unsurely. “I’m leaving.” Raythor said, nodding at both of them. He started to leave. “Just a second,” Anella said, somewhat apologetically. She caught up to Raythor and he glanced at her vaguely. “What?” He asked, still walking. “I can’t lose you either.” “Yeah…” “I love you, Raythor.” She said softly. Suddenly he was kissing her, far more desperately than he ever had before. She knew there must be something wrong, but she didn’t want him to let go. He had to feel it too, feel how fragile this all was, how easily either of them could die… Their lips parted and he held her close, his fingers winding through her hair. “I’m sorry, Anella.” Raythor said. “I shouldn’t have done that.” “Are… are you going to apologize every time you kiss me?” She said, but shakily. “You know how much you… but I’ve got to do this, I don’t have a choice.” “Raythor… you can’t mean…” “I’m not going to let her hurt you anymore.” “You promised me that you wouldn’t leave again.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:34:58 GMT -5
“I’m not leaving; she’ll come to me eventually. Kenetari isn’t going to get away next time.” “If you fight her alone, you’ll die. I’m going to help you.” Anella said firmly. “As much as I can.” “But-” “I’m just as willing to die for you as you are to die for me.” “Anella,” He started, but caught himself. “Never mind. Go help Laura; it’s been way longer than a second.”
****
Laura watched Anella’s face nervously. The black energy swirled around her middle again. Laura touched the blackness with the tips of her fingers, feeling the heart beat again. It curled around her hand and she smiled, but drew back when she felt something else. “It didn’t do that last time.” Laura said worriedly. Anella, brow furrowed. She hesitantly touched the black energy, feeling the heart beat and then the second feeling. It was… “That’s strange.” Anella said. “Are you… are you sure it did this last time you were pregnant?” “Yes, I’m positive. Last time I felt sick though…” “What could you think that other feeling could be?” “I don’t know what to think.” Laura said. The energy faded and she closed her eyes. “I can’t tell Markus on a whim, not so soon after the spell broke…” “It has only been a few days.” Anella agreed. Laura nodded. “But…the way you were before… maybe if you don’t keep anything from him, it can be that way again.” “Yes…you’re probably right. But should I tell him that this time it’s… different?”
****
Markus stared at his own wrist and then at the sword in his other hand. For a moment, he held firm. Then the sword clattered to the ground, leaving his skin unmarred. He sighed heavily. He didn’t know how it had reached this point. Two years ago, he never would have considered taking his own life. Heck, even a few months ago he couldn’t have fathomed it. Markus picked the sword back up and sheathed it, running his hand through his hair and frowning. “What am I doing?” Markus asked no one, hating the sound of his own voice. “Markus,” Mercury said, trotting up as if it was perfectly normal. The prince’s hands went to his temples automatically. He was surprised to find that he didn’t have a headache. Every other time he had a hallucination, it had come with a headache. “All right,” Markus said good-naturedly. “Who’s she cheating on me with now?” “This isn’t a figment of your imagination.” Mercury said. “That’s what Anella with fangs told me.” “I’m beginning to regret saving your life twice.” Mercury said. The symbol on his forehead flashed and it suddenly started raining only over Markus’s head. His skin started glowing blue.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:35:19 GMT -5
“It didn’t used to do that.” Markus said, concerned. “I can’t say that I care. Now do you believe that I’m real?” “Sure.” “Fine then.” Mercury stopped the rain. “Have you made a choice?” “What are you talking about?” “The dreams Markus. I sent them to you.” “Nightmares.” “Regardless, they presented you with a choice. Come with me or stay with them.” “You’re telling me to leave them and let them die?” Markus said. “That is no choice.” “But you don’t belong in their world. You belong in mine.” Mercury said simply. “I’m the future king of Everglade. That’s where I’m meant to be.” “Future,” Mercury smirked, “Everglade has no future.” “Yes it does.” Markus said flatly. “Laura and I are Everglade’s future.” “She saw you break, they all did. Who’s to say one of them won’t use that against you later?” “They wouldn’t do that.” “What if you didn’t have to be king?” “I belong in Everglade.” “I’m not so sure.” Mercury’s symbol flashed again and the drops of water still clinging to Markus’s hair shimmered and pooled in his palms. His skin reacted almost instantly, and the blue energy spread across his hand. “No other human can do that.” The prince shook the water away. “I don’t see why that’s a good thing.” “The point is you have a choice. You can stay here as a fugitive in Caltha, with your wife and your friends… or you could come with me and let all of that go. No responsibilities, no expectations. You would never feel as bad as you do now again.” Their eyes locked and Mercury could see Markus weakening. To never feel this way again, to never pretend that he was all right or to act like a prince, to forget everything his father had said to him…. “I’m not that selfish.” Markus said, swallowing hard. “Feeling this way is selfish, acting like this is selfish.” His expression hardened and Mercury actually looked startled. The elementist had never seen anything but kindness reflected in the prince’s eyes. “Why are you doing this to me?” “Because I need to. I had to give you the tools to become king.” Mercury said. “My father…” “Forget him. There is a reason you are different and you’ll see it soon. Let’s hope Laura is as steadfast as you are.” “What are you going to do to her?” Markus demanded, voice taking on a slightly menacing edge. “It wasn’t my job to hurt her.” Mercury said easily. “It was yours.” With that, he faded into a cloud of mist, leaving Markus wondering what, if anything, he could do to protect Laura. It was, after all, his fault that she needed protection.
****
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:35:43 GMT -5
Roland didn’t feel much like a king. He had, quite literally, nothing left. For awhile the others had kept assuring him that his mother and sister were alive. Then, slowly, as they imploded on themselves, he got left alone more and more. It didn’t matter much; he’d never believed them anyway. There was no way his mother and Gina had survived the carnage that had taken his father’s life. “Move it,” Kylara said, shoving past him carelessly. When he showed no sign of even having noticed, she glanced back at him suspiciously. “That’s it? Some king you are.” “A king without a country is no king.” Roland said blankly. “Must everything you say be recited from a book?” “I understand why you’re taking what ever is wrong out on me, but I can’t be blamed for the actions of generations of my family.” “No, that’s Raythor’s job, isn’t it?” “It’s how it’s always been, for as long as I can remember. Before that, it was the Cain sisters, before that it was Calypso. I’m sure it will be this current murderer next, who ever they are.” “What kind of royal family puts the blame on-” Kylara stopped, rephrasing, “legendary murderers?” “In case you haven’t noticed,” Roland said wryly, “this is Caltha. We don’t do anything like we’re supposed to.” “Oh,” Kylara said, taken aback by the sudden change in Roland’s moody silence. He grinned at her, but not at all kindly. “Besides, neither of us have much objectivity on the matter. I am the displaced heir to the throne and you are a purebred Calthan in love with our country’s most famous killer.” “What?” Kylara said, her eyes narrowing. His grin didn’t fade. “Do you think I don’t hear you begging him to make love to you?” Roland said. Kylara balled her fists. “At least he has someone begging him.” “How can you believe that he’s innocent?” “I don’t care if he’s innocent!” Kylara burst out. Roland seemed taken aback. “So you… don’t believe it and you want to sleep with him anyway? That’s… jeez… I can’t…” Roland said, shaking his head the whole time. “I mean, I would never admit that, certainly… of course… there was Lucy…” Kylara took off in the other direction with incredible speed.
****
“Ross,” Rose said hesitantly. “Hey, beautiful.” Ross said nodding, not getting up. “About that kiss… I know you’re still in love with Anella and I’m not really over Gabriel-” “Relax. It’s not like it meant anything, it was spur of the moment.” “Oh…” “What?” He raised an eyebrow. “Did you think it did?”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:35:59 GMT -5
“Of course not!” Rose said indignantly, managing to cover up all the hurt in her voice. Ross seemed satisfied with that answer. “I’m glad you’re one of the sensible ones,” Ross said blankly. “Everyone else around here seems to think that a kiss binds you together forever. You’re all so serious about that romance crap.” “Silly, isn’t it?” She said faintly, putting her fingers lightly against her lips. Without meaning to, her thoughts turned to Gabriel and she suddenly ached to hear his voice. She turned slightly so that Ross couldn’t read her expression, but he wasn’t really looking at her. “Besides, I was just trying to help you.” “Help me?” “Yeah, you’re my friend and all. You’ll never be truly happy until you get over Gabriel.” “Excuse me,” Rose said quickly. By the time Ross opened his mouth to ask why, she was gone.
****
“Markus?” Laura said. His arm was draped loosely over her shoulder and he was focusing on nothing in particular. “Hm?” Markus said. “If we were to have children, what would you want to name them?” “What?” The prince asked, fully paying attention now. “How is that a question? You had a miscarriage barely more than two months ago.” “Yes, Markus, but we did just…” “There’s no way you got pregnant from that. I mean, of course there’s a way, but…” “If there was a way I could tell, quickly, that I was with child and I… used that way… should I tell you that?” Laura said, sounding a bit anxious. Markus turned his head to study her face. “Laura?” The prince said, voice shaking slightly. He put his hand behind her head and kissed her. “Yes, of course.” She nodded, calling back the dark energy. Laura took his hand and pulled it to her stomach, waiting for him to feel the heart beat. His eyes opened wide when he did. “Is that a…?” “Yeah.” She said, and he broke into a full smile. “Why are there two of them?” “That’s what the second feeling is?” Laura said, surprised. “It seems the same to me as the first heart beat.” Markus said. She frowned. “Do you think that means…?” “Water magic.” The prince said. They both went silent for a moment. He said, finally: “But that also means…” “Twins.” Laura said. “We’re having twins.” “Laura…” Markus said again, pulling her up against him and kissing her again. “You’re really pregnant?” “I’m almost positive. This happened last time…”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:36:21 GMT -5
“That’s why you want to know what to name them?” Markus said. She nodded. “I mean… do you want to name all three of them?” “Three?” Laura said, feeling her heart clench. “I was talking to Dasher and she said that helps, a little… At least, for her mother it did…” “Audrion.” “Huh?” “Let’s name him Audrion.” She said. Markus laughed. “Yes. Good idea. Audrion Everglade… our son.” They went silent again. “And the other two?” Laura said finally. “Harris and Elizabeth.” Markus said, meeting her eyes. Her lips curled upward. “You remember that? Really?” “Of course I do. Every part of that wedding is burned into my memory.” “Mine too.” Laura said. She draped her arm behind his neck. “But it’s really sweet that you remember me saying that. You really like those names too?” “Yeah. Elizabeth is pretty and Harris is actually a family name, so my father will like that. Of course, we’ll need back ups if they’re not one of each…” “We can name one Markus if it’s two boys and…um…” “Charity if it’s two girls. That was your mother’s name, wasn’t it?” “Uh huh.” “If it’s Markus, it might be a little stupid. I’m just warning you now.” Markus said. She laughed. “You’re not stupid, just a little… slow.” “Hey!” “I’m kidding.” Laura told him sweetly. He rolled his eyes. Then he hugged her tightly. “I’m glad you told me.” “I am too.” “It’s great to be able to talk like this again.” Markus said softly. She hugged him back, feeling for the first time that maybe things were going to be all right.
****
Lila poked at the fire with a stick. She couldn’t look at Markus anymore without turning bright red. He may not remember it, but it had been her first kiss… It hadn’t been how she imagined it would be at all. Her father had always kissed her mother somewhat aggressively, not with love, not gently… but Markus… What must it be like for Laura, to be treated like that every day of her life? “Come on Rose. One two… no, swing the other way.” Markus said, moving to dodge Rose’s sword. She sighed heavily. “Why do you have to keep moving all the time?” Rose demanded, lowering her weapon and scowling. “Because Raythor complained I was going easy on Anella and not moving enough. So you get the advanced class.” “Raythor wants you to beat the heck out of his girlfriend?” “He wants her to be able to defend herself.” Markus said blankly.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:36:40 GMT -5
“So what, you’re still going easy on Anella?” “Of course not, I was never trying to.” The prince said. “That was just the way I was trained because that’s how Gladians fight: straight, orderly and repetitive. Sort of like my father lives. You, little lady, get to learn how to fight like a Calthan.” “And how do they fight, pretty boy?” Rose asked. Someone took her sword and stepped in front of her. “Not fair.” Raythor said, sticking her sword in the ground. “Stop focusing on your instructors face and start concentrating on your fighting, princess.” “If it was your face, I’d have to look away so that I didn’t hurl.” Rose scoffed. “Oh yeah?” He flashed her a big smile and she turned away blushing. “Well, so what if you look slightly attractive when you smile. You’re still an uncultured peasant.” “So much my loss.” “Actually, Raythor, could you train her for a minute? I have to talk to Lila.” Markus said. “Sure, maybe I’ll hit her by ‘accident.’” Raythor said with a grin. Rose scowled at him again. “Is it true Laura is having twins?” “Yeah.” Markus said, the corners of his mouth turning up almost subconsciously. “Congratulations. They aren’t mine.” The dark haired boy said as he walked away with Rose trailing after him, and Markus laughed slightly. “Lila,” The prince said. She started, dropping the stick. It caught on fire and spread outwards. He touched his wrist and blue energy put out the fire. “Sorry I startled you.” “It’s fine.” Lila said, nodding a few times as though she wanted to prove it to herself. “All right… so a lot of the stuff that happened yesterday, up to a certain point, is a complete hazy blur. The only consistency is that I couldn’t feel anything the illusions did to me.” Markus said, and Lila looked a little worried. “Until Laura kissed me. And I know it wasn’t really Laura. In fact the only person it could have been was… you.” “Oh…” Lila said. She fidgeted. She didn’t say anything else. Markus took hold of her shoulders lightly, forcing her to look at him. “Did I kiss you, Lila?” “Yes.” She said. Markus dropped her shoulders, standing up straight, running his fingers through his hair. “I’m really sorry. I never would have done that if…” Markus said, trailing off. “I’m just really sorry.” “That was my first kiss…” “Jeez Lila… you must hate me now.” “I don’t hate you.” Lila said. She looked up at him. “I’m in love with you.” Markus took a step back. “Uh…” Markus said. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t had this conversation before, it was just usually in letter form. He was also out of practice, the love letters had stopped after Laura had become his fiancée. And the only one who’d ever said that to his face was Laura, the only one who had ever really meant it was Laura… “Lila, I’m sure that isn’t true.” “Yes it is. I swear it. I’ve never felt like this before.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:37:00 GMT -5
“Lila… I mean, you are my friend and I’m honored to know you but… I’m not in love with you and I’m never going to be. I’m sorry.” “I know.” Lila said, and he breathed an inward side of relief. “You belong with Laura. I just wanted you to know so that you wouldn’t ever be… sorry for kissing me. Even if you thought I was Laura.” “Thank… thank you for understanding.” Markus said. She stood up and he firmly shook her hand. “Markus?” “Hm?” “No matter what happens, I won’t forget you.” She leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. “What would you do if you were a fifteen year old girl and a handsome, mysterious stranger came and saved your mother’s life? She didn’t stand a chance.” Markus shook Laura’s words away. She had been right, she was always right. “I won’t forget you either.”
****
Raythor woke up and couldn’t breathe. There was a hand over his mouth and something pressing down hard into his chest. “Don’t try to move.” Kenetari whispered fiercely. Her arm pushed harder into his chest and she waited for recognition in his eyes. There was none. Raythor struggled against her weight, but he was backed against a tree and still barely breathing. He was probably stronger than she was but, thanks to the way she was restraining him, that didn’t matter. “You don’t remember?” Kenetari asked. She forced his head into the bark. “Really?” She frowned. “You used to have a reflex… Raythor’s eyes opened wide. A memory made its way through the general haze in his mind, of himself on a bed surrounded by darkness. Vera’s knees were crushing into his chest and her hand was covering his mouth. She leaned down, her black hair touching his face, and told him twisted terrible things, knowing that he was too small to do anything. He’d started to sleep standing up. Sometimes he could escape her that way, if he… Raythor’s hand wrapped around her wrist and he used his thumb to dig into her vein, using so much force that she had to let go. She drew back, watching him desperately suck in breath. “What…the…hell…did I just do?” Raythor managed. Kenetari smiled. “Because of me, you do that anytime anyone puts too much weight on your chest. You did it to mother once,” She laughed, “she was so surprised. You were such a gentle boy. You never liked to be touched, but I suppose that was my fault as well. I could be a little rough.” His fist shot out and struck her just beneath the throat. She recovered quickly, twisting his arm behind his back and covering his mouth again. “That hurt.” Kenetari said, rotating his wrist another few degrees. “Let him go.” A feminine voice said darkly. Kenetari felt cold metal against the back of her neck, nearly breaking the skin. “Or I swear I’ll take your head off.” “It’s the little mouse again. How positively adorable.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:37:16 GMT -5
“I’m not kidding.” Anella said, cutting a little. “If you hurt him again, I’ll kill you.” Raythor tried to free his arms and Kenetari twisted his wrist so far back that he cried out. Anella cut a little more and Kenetari gasped. “Wait.” Kenetari said, sounding slightly afraid. She released Raythor and spun around. He sucked in air again and his sister put her hand over her wound, glaring at Anella. She grabbed her sword from her sheath and stabbed it into Anella’s chest… or tried to. The metal bounced off her as through it had hit stone. Anella took hold of the blade and wrenched it out of Kenetari’s hands. Raythor stood back, looking from one to the other with complete disbelief. Anella’s eyes were glowing brighter silver than he had ever seen before. “You’re not going to hurt him anymore.” Anella said, taking a step forward. Kenetari signaled to an elementist hidden in the darkness. In the flash, someone screamed. When Raythor could see again, Anella’s weapon was covered in blood. “Is she…?” Raythor said tentatively. Anella turned to face him and he almost had to look away. The intensity of the glowing silver was nearly blinding. “Anella, what’s going on? Why didn’t it hurt you? Not that I’m complaining…” “That’s what I didn’t tell you.” Anella said. She glanced at her sword, as though she were seeing it for the first time. “I can’t be hurt in the moonlight.” He smiled. “That’s how we can kill her. If you can’t be hurt…” “‘We’? You came out here alone after you said you’d let me help you.” “I didn’t want you to get hurt. I didn’t mean to fall asleep, either…” “Maybe we should talk about this in the morning.” Anella said, her eyes dancing like silver flames. “When I’m less likely to do something I regret.” “Anella-” “Good night, Raythor.
Chapter Thirty Every time you touch me
Ivy Everglade was getting nervous. She hadn’t heard from Audrion in weeks and she needed to know that her children were still safe. All the messenger had told her was that Markus and Ketra were still alive, nothing else. And Audrion… how could he just leave her here? She had very little experience running the country alone and with the neighboring country in the middle of a revolution, she needed him here. “Your majesty,” A man said, opening the door. They are ready for you.” “Of course.” Ivy said with a slight smile. John was their most trusted servant and he’d been incredibly supportive when it came to the Queen’s authority. She stepped into the meeting chamber, sitting at the head of the table. Twelve chairs wound around it, filled with the people that made up Audrion’s counsel and thusly represented Everglade’s five districts. All twelve pairs of eyes focused on her. “Ivy, are you ready to declare who the regent will be in the event-” Richard Everglade began.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:38:12 GMT -5
“In the event my husband and son do not return, I will stay regent until either my own death or my second son’s coming of age. Benedict is second in line for the throne.” Ivy said briskly. “What of the situation in Caltha?” “With Etienne’s death and the revolution, our pact with Caltha is broken. Audrion assured me of that before he left.” “Sire,” A servant cried, running in. “Er… your majesty! King Audrion has returned and Prince Markus and the Princess Ketra are not with him.”
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“Where’s Audrion? Why can’t we get out of Caltha? How come I’m the only one who ever looks after Emma anymore?” Kaslon moaned dramatically. “My father sent a message to go on without him.” Markus said. “Which we have been doing all this time, if you haven’t noticed.” Rose pointed out. “We’re getting close to the border. It shouldn’t be much longer.” Caldria assured him. “That’s good news, because you are getting so darn pregnant.” Kaslon said. “Kaslon!” David said. “It’s all right, David. I am six months pregnant.” Caldria said. “Cally doesn’t mind being huge, do you Cally?” Kaslon said. At that, Caldria became concerned. David put an arm around her and glared as Kaslon. “What? What did I say?” “We’re never going to make it across the border.” Dasher said. “Well, they’re looking for a large group.” Raythor said and Dasher’s eyes lit up with excitement. “We can split off into small groups and go across in shifts.” “Right, but we’ll have to separate everyone who was in the same cell before. Those will be the pairs they’re looking for us in.” “Damn it…” Ross said, realizing that Anella had been in his cell. “That’s probably best.” Laura said, sounding a bit disappointed too. She gave Markus an affectionate glance. “Shouldn’t all the royals look a little less… royal?” Theo suggested. “Yes…” Dasher said, but glancing at Markus’s hair. “Have them change clothes.” Blade said.
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“You look pretty in Anella’s dress.” Markus said quietly, flashing a smile. She did a little twirl, laughing. “You always think I look pretty, no matter what I wear.” Laura teased. “That would be my job, as your husband.” “Well you look very nice in Raythor’s clothes.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:38:31 GMT -5
“Black is my color.” Markus said, rolling his eyes. She laughed again, and he started back. Laura moved to follow him but found she couldn’t move. Someone had wound their arm around her waist a put a knife against her neck. “Don’t scream.” A male voice said. It was familiar and at the same time she knew she had never heard it before in her life. Markus’s form kept receding until she heard the faint sound of him talking. He started and turned around, his eyes widening when he caught sight of her. “Who are you?” Laura asked. There was no reply. If she reached for her sword, he would know it. Markus was back in front of her in seconds, with his weapon drawn and his eyes blazing. “Who are you?” Markus repeated her question, but with much more anger. Laura reached out to him slightly. If she could just touch him, she could channel his powers… The figure behind her shifted to pin down her arms. Somehow, the prince couldn’t make out any of the strangers features. There was a twisting, blurring shadow over his face that was almost just an illusion. Still, there was something about him that was… familiar. “I’m the killer.” The stranger said. “Caltha’s latest killer. Don’t worry; I’m not going to touch her… yet. I just wanted you all to know I’m alive.” He backed up slightly, sword still against Laura’s neck. “Let me walk away and I’ll let her live.” Markus sheathed his sword, but reluctantly, and held up his hands. The killer moved like a jackrabbit and was gone before either of the Everglades could make a move.
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Blade started slowly back to camp, a rabbit in his mouth. The sun was just barely rising and all he could think of was that they were one day closer to the border. To part of him that was cheering. He had been away from Lakita for a very long time and he missed it. Blade also had his duties to uphold, his lessons to learn and his elder brother to keep an eye on. There was no place in the word like the shadow kingdom. To another part of him…That part was going to miss Dasher terribly. That part liked being with a large group and not living in isolation, as the shadows tended to. He wanted to see Markus’s kingdom sort out the messes in Caltha and be there to help him. He wanted to be there for Anella and Raythor’s wedding and make sure Anella was ok. He wanted to trade element related insults with Dasher until the day he died. Blade smiled a little at that. Silly, how much he enjoyed it. He glanced up to see Anella and Rose walking by. Rose seemed unhappy to be up at this hour, but Anella was unfazed. Anella waved slightly and the two girls walked over. Blade carefully set down the rabbit. It was impolite to have anything in your mouth in public; he could almost hear his mother saying that. “Good morning.” Blade said. Rose groaned when she saw the rabbit. “If there’s anything I hate more than regular rabbit, it’s desert rabbit.” Rose said. “Those little critters taste like thinly veiled sand.” “Ross may be right about your strange expressions.” “Yes, Ross is right about something, and I’m the future queen of Everglade.” “You almost were.” Anella said lightly. “Does that make Ross almost right?” “Or almost wrong. How ever you want to look at it.” Blade agreed. Rose sighed and Anella and Blade laughed slightly.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 15:38:49 GMT -5
“I’m going to go get the stupid firewood.” Rose said, marching off purposefully. “Not a morning person.” Blade said. Anella shook her head. “Where is Raythor this morning? Usually he’s with you.” “Well…” Anella said. “Last night, he went out and tried to fight Kenetari alone. He told me he wouldn’t do that, he knows it could get him killed. I’m slightly…” “Angry?” “Upset.” “I’m sure the two of you will work through it.” Blade said. “Everyone else is trying to dash us against the rocks… I wish he’d stop trying to do it for them.” Anella said. “It would be difficult to marry someone knowing that they could kill themselves at any time.” “I can do it, I know I can. It’s just… hard to keep him from the blackness all the time. I don’t want it to take him back.” She shook her head. “I’m sorry, I should go help Rose. Thank you for listening, though.” “I don’t mind at all.” Blade said. “Anytime you need me.” Anella smiled weakly as she walked off. Blade waited until she was fully gone before he picked up the rabbit again.
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Markus held his wife tightly, but he seemed more shaken up than she did. Laura patted his back, looking slightly worried. “Honey, I’m fine really. And so are the babies.” She pulled back, calling up the dark energy. “See? Both the heartbeats are still there.” Markus barely touched the energy, nodding slightly. “He said he wouldn’t hurt you yet. We have to get out of Caltha as quickly as possible. And we’re putting four people on the night watch instead of just two.” Markus said. “Did his voice sound weirdly familiar to you?” Laura asked. He nodded. “Which is why you’re increasing the guard?” “Exactly.” “Markus, you never made an exact vow to protect me. I don’t fit the criteria.” Laura said. “And I’ve never made an exact vow to protect you either.” “Vyncent did.” Markus said. Laura gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. For the first time, she seemed slightly afraid. “He did… and when I had the miscarriage, when I fought with you…” “Vyncent broke his promise. He failed to protect you.” The prince said. Laura shook her head. “How could he know that?” “Unless we know him. Anyone on the quest two years ago knows that, and who knows who they told. I trust them, but this was previously a harmless bit of information. They could have told anyone without thinking.” “I’ll be ready for him. He isn’t going to kill me, even if I’m alone. I promise.” Laura said. The prince looked a bit reassured. Then both their eyes opened wide. “Anella.” They said together.
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