HEROES SAGA

Princess Diana was hiding in her room, anticipating to read the romance of a life time. At least that's the rumor going around about the novel. Diana loved to read. She read so much that she had a bookshelf in her room to keep her favorites close, as well as hoarding new ones that she would get to eventually.

 

With hunger in her eyes. Her fluffy dog-like tail swished along with excitement. She didn't want this story to be done too quickly, promising herself to savor every word. She placed the book between her elbows, resting her head on her palms, and began the journey. She was introduced to a world known to a young maiden, who lived a simple life as a farm girl. Her name was Seria. She lived in a village that seemed quite ordinary, except this village was cursed. The village, you see, was touching a forest that spanned throughout the countryside. No villager dared to go near it. It's name was Orie, but  the town  called it forbidden. Those who ventured into town, were warned about the Forest, because the few who entered were never seen again.

 

Seria knew the dangers. She was a good girl who obeyed the warnings. She grew up with the tales of the Forbidden Forest, told by parents at bedtime to scare children to be good. Everyone respected the boundary.

 

Late into the evening she was finishing her chores with the animals before sundown. To her dismay she had neglected the latch to the goats pen. He kicked the gate open, and ran for freedom. Seria chased the billy down. She followed him all over town, the goat relentlessly staying out of reach munching on scrumptious weeds.

 

She had chased him farther, and farther away from home till finally he had made a mistake that thwarted his great escape. She found him entangled in a thicket, and it gave her great relief “When we return I'm tying you to a post, you bad goat.” she scolded him, while tying a rope around his neck. She freed him from the bush, and turned around to see, to her horror, the village was very far away. But how? It was right behind her. She hadn't gone so far, but now the lamps of homes twinkled in the distance. To her dismay she was surrounded by trees. She felt like a fool. The goat had led her right into the forest. In her panic she pulled on his leash, and marched towards the village in haste.

 

Could she have been so careless? distracted with the chase, not realising how far in the woods she had gone? It was impossible. The night came swiftly leaving only the lamps to guide her way. What if the forest had tricked her? The thought made her skin crawl. “They are only tales, they are only tales.” she said, trying to calm her nerves.

 

Wasn't this suppose to be a romance novel? Diana thought. It's starting to feel more like a horror. She wasn't too particularly fond of that kind of genre, but she couldn't stop now, she was hooked. It was her nature to see things through, and so she followed the poor girl as she carelessly wandered deeper into the fog. Diana compulsively gnawed on her finger tip. Where did the fog come from? Was Seria going to be another victim of the cursed forest?

 

The goat tried to flee, yanking on the rope on his neck. She fought against him, even though she was shaking. The town wasn't getting any closer, “Oh Dura my mother, protect me” she said in a shaky breath.

 

She stepped on a twig, and nearly jumped out of her skin. her heart was pounding. The goat refused to calm, fighting, and bellowing. He didn't like being here either. “Hush Gallamo, you want the whole forest to know we're here?”

 

In the corner of her eye she saw movement, and her blood ran cold. She heard the rumblings of a snarl. Maybe if she ignored it, it would go away, but alas her curiosity got the better of her, and she turned towards the sound. Over in the shadows glowed two yellow eyes. The rope slipped from her hand, and the goat ran for it's life. The beast pounced, she braced for death, but the goat fell silent. Her body took over, and ran not caring where, only to get away from it. The beast howled, pounding on the ground like thunder, breaking branches in its path. She dared to look behind, failing to see the tree laying on its side. She tripped and tumbled down a hill that ended at the bottom of a bluff. She ignored her scrapes, getting on her feet, scrambling to reach the ledge above her, but with every jump her hope wilted away, as the top was several hands too high. She heard the howl again, and she shrank with fright. She was trapped between the rock, and the beast. It's snarl sounded like purring. It took its time, down the slope, knowing she had nowhere to flee.

 

Diana was shaking. Is this the thing, causing the townspeople to disappear? It's terrifying! The monster cornered Seria. It's glowing eyes pierced her soul. Body as big as a bear, and claws the size of knives scraped on the rocks, and it smiled showing big long fangs. This can't be the end for Seria can it? What was she going to do?

 

Then when all hope was lost a mysterious figure jumped from the eight foot cliff landing between her and the Creature. Who is this? Seria thought. Who ever it was showed no fear, and to her astonishment the beast cowered in their presence. It was afraid of them. The beast fled, and they were alone. The person swayed their cloak to the side revealing a tall strong man dressed in the finest clothes she had ever seen, and his face could have been a God's. Her hero, an extremely handsome man, stood in front of her in all his glory. “Thank you,” is all she managed to say before the man threw his cloak over her like a net, picking her up like a sack of grain, and threw her onto his shoulder. Who Seria thought was her hero, was now her kidnapper. She struggled, and screamed, but he was too strong.

 

“Diana, can you braid my hair?” her baby sister Liliana had suddenly appeared  right next to her, and had given her a good scare. Diana hadn't realized that she had entered, and next to her was Jerica, the littlest sister. “Please, please, please. Do my hair too!”

 

She looked at her book with longing, but it could wait, because she did like doing hair. She closed the book. “Ok!” She said, then scrambled off the bed, racing her sisters to her vanity.

 

She opened the drawer that had all of her armaments ready for use. With brush in hand she sat down on her chair, and began brushing from the top all the way down. Liliana's hair was not wild, but regardless no knot would get away. In the brushing she picked up a melody of la la las rolling off her tongue. The sisters enjoyed her beautiful voice, giggling, while Diana braided the front of Liliana's bangs, she would pin that to the side later.

 

Liliana's golden locks were just like her mothers. She was envious of Liliana's long soft flowing hair. She got her hair from her father, his was a deep brown, thick, and heavy. She kept it short to her shoulders, otherwise it would give her a headache, and so she rarely had much to work with.

 

Liliana winced, “Ow you're pulling my hair,”

 

Diana ignored her, but she was more careful. She ran her fingers through the silky hair, mulling over what she could do. It could be simple. What she ended with was half up tied by a ribbon into a big puffy bow, and pinning her bang around to the back. It looked so cute. The hair was finished, but she was not done yet. To complete her master piece. she fluffed her sister's dog-like ears, and fluffed her tail to perfect fluffiness. Finally she was ready.

 

Liliana looked in the mirror, and gasped. “Thank you!” she said in a wispy way. Diana smiled, and booped Liliana's nose.

 

Jerica couldn't wait any longer, she squeezed in between the two girls, “Me next, me next! I want a big braid!” her tail wagged, begging with a pearly white smile. Diana's tail wagged as well with enthusiasm “Yes, lets!” Diana brushed her hair, humming another hymn that blessed their ears, till Jerica's mixed blonde hair was silk smooth, then separated the hair into three groups, braiding each close to the scalp. She then conjoined the braids, stitching the outer ones into the middle one. The multiple braids looked like one large weave. This one had taken much longer, and Diana felt satisfied with her work. Both little girls wagged their happy tails and left Diana's room hand in hand, “Thank you!” they chimed in unison.

 

“You're welcome!” she yelled after them amused. With a happy sigh, she placed her brush away, then with a leap she jumped back into her bed to discover more about the mysterious man.

 

“Hey Sis, could you help me?” Her sister Lima sounded in pain, leaning in her doorway that had been left open. She didn't wait for a response, instead standing above Diana, staring with large puppy-dog eyes. Diana laughed to herself. They knew too well how to get her help. The mystery man will have to wait, she thought. The thrill being short lived, she closed the book again, and crawled back out of bed. “What do you need?” She tried to sound sincere.

 

Lima turned around exposing the back of her dress swaying her curly hair aside, “This corset is too blooming tight, could you be a treat and adjust it?

Diana, pulled the knot on the lace, and Lima sighed in relief. “Oh, that is so much better. That maid might be the death of me. 'Princesses don't need to breathe, they need to be elegant'” Lima mocked her voice. She was imitating Tansy, their maid, who had taken it upon herself to raise them. She took the duty a little too seriously, like it was her calling to prepare them for marriage. Diana laughed, while hushing Lima. “She might hear you.” They both giggled, thinking about the horror that would ensue.

 

“Where are you off too?” Diana said. She pulled the lace, and tied the knot, this time it was much more comfortable.

“Wouldn't you like to know?”

 

“I would. That's why I asked. It wouldn't happen to be a certain man is it? Diana gave her the look, and Lima turned a shade of red.

 

“Guilty.” she said, “Ok fine, I'll tell you.” she said eagerly. “Calligan's battalion will be training at the academy today, and I'm going to watch. He is going to be in his armor, and there's going to be fighting. He's going to be so heroic.” she fluttered a breath, “He invited me.” she blushed.

 

Both girls giggled in fits, like girls do when talking about handsome boys. “Things are going well then?” Diana said.

 

Lima grabbed Diana's hands in hers, her face glowing with excitement “He is going to speak to father. He is waiting for the right moment, then soon our courtship will be 'official.'”

 

“You think father will go with it?”

 

Lima's face crinkled like she ate something sour. Her hands squeezed Diana's a little too hard, and her ears bent back. “If Father will let Dorca court Deacon Erront,” she elongated his last name with distaste.“His father is a Duke, he's well respected, and Calligan is also a knight of the wall! He better say yes to him.”

 

Diana puffed air through her lips “He most certainly will! You and Lord Calligan? How could he say no?” That made Lima smile, and Diana felt her fingers again. “Calligan,” she said dreamily, fluttering her hand on her breast, imitating the beating of her heart. “Oh Diana, I think I love him.”

 

“Love? Lima, I am so happy for you!” their tails wagged, and they embraced, squeezing the life out of each other. “What's it feel like to be in love?” Diana said

 

Lima twirled in her flowing dress, and spoke in a sing song tone “like butterflies are tickling your insides. I feel like dancing, and I don't think I'll ever stop.”

 

Diana held her hands to her face, swooning, “Oh! That sounds amazing. I can't wait to be in love.”

 

Lima stopped mid twirl. “It may happen soon, you are old enough.” she said as a matter of fact.

 

Diana's heart skipped a beat. It's true she had been for a year, and that created a tightness in her chest. Why did that make her panic? She's like every girl, her age, yearning to find her happy ending, but the idea of actually finding someone. well, she dreaded it.

 

Lima smiled mischievously “Has anyone caught your eye?”

 

“Oh, no, no, no, no,” she said, covering her face, “I really haven't thought about it” she lied. It was on her mind all the time, but it was too complicated. It's why she stuck her head in books. It was much easier when the script was laid out, and she didn't have to think of the words. She could watch two characters fall in love. They made it look easy. Courting was a huge obstacle to achieving her fairy tale. Boys were intimidating. To add salt to the wound she was a princess. How often does a princess have her happy ending? The books lie, saying a fairy tale princess gets the prince. A charming, courageous, handsome, and romantic prince, but this is reality. Princesses don't get to be rescued by a prince of their dreams. Her hand is a political asset of her fathers. She imagined any day now he was going to make an engagement to some Aristocrat. The agony of courting an absolute stranger. What do men want to talk about anyways? If she's lucky, maybe he would be into reading, then maybe it wouldn't be so hard. She could talk about books for hours on end.

 

“Come on. There hasn't been one?” Lima said. A spark of inspiration enlightened her face “I have an idea. What if you come with me? It'll be fun. I know some popular houses come to watch. We could do some scoping. Or maybe a knight will sweep you off your feet?” her eyes glowed with deviousness, enjoying the thought of playing matchmaker.

 

“Oh I don't know” Diana sneaked a peek at the book. She had things to do.

 

“What else do you have to do? Come on let's go.” Lima grabbed her hand, and led her away. Diana looked at her bed in desperation, but then sighed in defeat, following Lima out of her room.

 

Dorca, the oldest, came out of her room at the same time. They paused, Lima and Dorca looking at each other, unsaid words passing between them. To Diana time felt awkwardly slow. Dorca smiled at her, then walked briskly away like she had somewhere else to be. Lima continued walking with Diana relaxing her pursed lips. She was smiling again, and she was back into her happy mood.

 

***

 

 

The Soldier swung his sword in a two handed grip, scraping the breastplate of their foe by a hair. The enemy had backed away just in time, chopping at the soldier's strikes, like he was chopping a tree. The Soldier swung up over his head crashing down into his helmet, but the enemy blocked the blow, contacting the blade at an angle that led the strike down its length, away from his body. The Soldier put too much force in the swing, creating an opening that would only last for a second. He took the opportunity by sweeping his leg behind their knee, causing the soldier to buckle to the ground. Upon his back the enemy swiftly went for their exposed neck.

 

“End of Bout!” Shouted the Captain. The sword was inches away from the Soldier's neck. The enemy relaxed and re-sheathed, then removed his helmet, revealing a pearly white smile. In Jovial glee he extends a hand for his fallen comrade. The Soldier was not disheartened, he got up, removed his helmet, and they both went off the field. They chatted like they were friends, the loser padded his friend on the back, walking to the side of the circle. The captain directed two more into the arena.

 

“Ooh look, Diana, what do you think of those two? Tall, dark and handsome, and look at the smile on that one.” Diana was trying not to ogle, but yes she noticed the pearly white smile, square jaws, and military trimmed ears. The soldiers wore full plate armor, head to foot, adding a chainmail sleeve that covered their tails. They trained fervently in mock battles, while the blue bloods watched the tournaments on the side of the field. a hill offered a view much like seating to an arena. The nobles sat on blankets, while munching on snacks, and enjoying the scrimmage to pass the time, and as you'd imagine young lady on-lookers, taking a gander.

 

“Isn't this fun?” Lima said. “They get quite competitive, and it's worth watching. We should do this more often.”

 

Diana was enjoying herself, but she was also aware that all the girls were swooning over the knights, like her sister. The men had to know right? That would make it even more embarrassing. If any of them were to notice her, She might shrivel up and give up the ghost.

 

“Oh! Oh!” Lima jittered in her seat. “Look! There's Calligan in his armor. Eeh! The moment we have been waiting for. This is going to be good.” she said with a deep gusto.

 

Calligan didn't wear the traditional armor, instead he wore chainmail that covered most of his body, and atop of that, smaller plates covered vital limbs, and organs. The plates were silver with gold fused intricate patterns on his boots, gloves, grieves, and bracers. His helmet that he held at his hip resembled a wolf's head. His other hand rested on the hilt of his sword, the white gold glowed in the sunlight. He stood relaxed, giving his commander a nod. “All right scripts” said the Commander in a booming voice. “Listen up!” Everyone paused and lowered their weapons to listen. “Sir Calligan is open for challenge. For any of you greenlings, this is your opportunity to impress. Any who best him may take a week leave... Any takers?”

 

No one jumped quickly to the challenge, it felt too much like a trap. She could guess it was a trick on new recruits to show them who is in charge. Knights of the wall were suppose to be the best soldiers in the kingdom. Generals of the city, proven to be smart and magical. Those that had taken on the title have made it a legacy, that by reputation alone put fear in their enemies.

The chattering simmered into laughter, as the soldiers elbowed their comrades, calling them chicken, one of the soldiers was acting like a chicken.

 

Finally one armorer stepped forward. “I'll take on the Marshal.”

 

“That's Lord Marshal, to you, Script. ” The Commander corrected him. The man saluted halfheartedly. “Yes Sir,” That made Diana cringe. A response like that to an officer? General Kaffkin would have chewed him up and spit him out.

 

“Diana, It's him. Mister Smiles.”

 

It dawned on Diana that he was the Soldier who had taken on his friend from earlier. His hair was slightly curly, and he had deep brown eyes... She wasn't going to call him, 'Mister Smiles,' She least was going to give him a classier name.

 

Sir Calligan smirked, and put on his helmet. The two of them shook arms in the circle, and stepped back into their stances. Everyone's eyes were watching now, holding their breath. “Fight!” yelled the Commander, and the two began circling one another, searching for an opening. Sir Handsome might give Calligan a run for his skills, but he had a disadvantage with Calligan's chain mail that granted him more freedom of movement. Calligan danced around like a fencer, keeping Handsome on his toes.

 

They bashed back and forth testing their metal, dancing to the rhythm of their blades. Calligan after a block, swung in a fluid figure eight, and in awe Handsome rebuffed the onslaught, deflecting each swing with grace, despite his stiff movements. Handsome retreated, holding his defense. Diana noticed that Handsome was baiting Calligan with teasing strikes. Calligan took the bait, leaping towards handsome, while in mid-stride Handsome charged into Calligan's body with his shoulder, knocking Calligan off balance, then Handsome kicked the leg right from under him. Lima and Diana both gasped, he was trying the same ploy from earlier, however in a blur Calligan rotated his sword, stabbed the ground to support him, while in the air he coiled like a cobra, and kicked Handsome in his breast plate. Both were on the ground before anybody could catch up with what was happening. Calligan landed, rolling with the momentum, and threw himself back onto his feet, while Handsome did his best to roll onto his feet in heavy armor. Calligan waited for Handsome, then charged at him again.

 

Lima gripped Diana's arm, making little shrill noises. “Look, look!” she said as if Diana wasn't paying attention. The rest of the audience was hollering like they had bets to win. Handsome swung at Calligan's middle, Calligan kicked Handsome's blade with the tip of his armored toe. Batting the sword out of range. Calligan in the blink of an eye used flash step. His body shimmered out of sight, reappearing in flashes, striking Handsome from random directions, hearing the clang of sword on armor, then Calligan appeared from behind striking a blow into Handsome's helmet with his bracer, chiming as metal hit metal, and knocked Handsome to the ground face first with a thud. Handsome laid there for a second before lethargically pushing onto his back. Calligan touched the tip of his sword against Handsome's chest plate, and Handsome gave the signal that he was done.

 

The crowd clapped, and cheered. Calligan offered a hand for Handsome, pulling him off the ground, then held the knight's hand high, increasing the sound of the applause.

 

“Let's go talk to them.” Lima hopped up, pulling Diana with her. At this point she was a doll, just following along into the lion's den. Calligan and Handsome were talking about something, while Calligan noticed her coming towards him, “Royal Highness Lima” He beamed. His hand caught Lima's, lifted hand, giving it a soft peck. “And Royal Highness Diana, A pleasure.” Diana ritually lent her hand for him to kiss as well, and his lips on her hand made her ears feel hot. “Ladies, did you enjoy yourselves?”

 

Lima had a smile that she couldn't shove down even if she tried.“Yes, very much. Diana thoroughly enjoyed your dual” Lima gave a look at Diana, that felt mischievous “I don't think we've met, Knight.”

Your too kind, My Lady. I am just a squire.” He pulled off his Gauntlet, and also offered to kiss Lima's hand. “I am Mason Portsmith, Ma'am, son of Eldric.”

 

Lima's hand retreated to her heart to display a bashful surprise. To Diana it was like watching a play, her sister playing a part. “Portsmith? the Court Judge Portsmith?” said Lima

 

“Yes, the very same.”

 

Lima snuck a jab in Diana's arm that had gone unnoticed, but to Diana she heard a whole conversation in her head. 'Did you hear that, Diana? He's reputable, and going to be a knight. He may just be the one, what do you think, Diana, should we plan the wedding? Diana tried to ignore the conversation in her head, while Lima continued the conversation without her.

 

“Diana, was absolutely loving it, isn't that right, Diana?”

 

Her throat became dry, the horror of all the attention on her, feeling her face turning red. “It was a– good, yes, good” she nodded, instantly regretting it. What are you five? She thought.

 

“Thank you.” said Mason “I appreciate it, despite my loss.”

 

“Oh, but you were incredible!” said Diana, quickly shying from her outburst. Lima gave her a side eye glance, trying not to grin. Lima chimed in “Are you planning on doing the fall tournament, Sir Mason?

 

“As long as I can pass the entries, I most certainly will.”

 

“I wouldn't worry. For most of us it's a trivial formality.” said Calligan

 

“Certainly you'll make the tournament an exciting event, Sir Mason, we will look forward to seeing your talents again.” said Lima

Mason nodded, “Charmed ma'am. I will do my best to make it a good one.”

 

“Calligan made eye contact with the Commander. Having a nonverbal communication using hand signals unknown to her. “Oh curses. I'm supposed to be on my way to the war room. I shouldn't keep your Father waiting. Sorry ladies, I must excuse myself. And, Mason, I believe your Captain is waiting.”

 

Mason gave him a ,Yes Sir, salute that felt more playful than serious,

Mason bowed again. “Ladies.”

 

Lima and Diana gave a lazy curtsy, “Charmed, Sir. Mason.” said Lima

 

He turned, and marched to his Captain. Diana was staring, as he turned around, and saw her staring. His stature got a little taller in the kind of way you feel when you realize someone was watching you, he smirked, and she turned around feeling embarrassed. The maid collected their roll, and Diana pulled Lima along with her urging them and the Guards forward. Lima was gracious enough to wait till they left the Academy, to tease her. “He's good looking, isn't he? And that smile. What do you think, Diana?”

 

“Yeah, he is– nice” Diana was rosy in the cheeks.

 

“So when should we plan the wedding?”

 

“Oh stop!” She crinkled her nose at Lima

 

“I'm teasing. He's cute though right? You want to go again?”

 

“Yes.” she said bashfully

 

“Yeah. It will be great! So what else do you want to do while we're out?”

 

“Hmm? “Oh... I don't know what ever you want” Diana said, her mind occupied elsewhere.

 

***

 

King Dayne tapped his fingers on his arm chair, listening to the reports read aloud by the scribe who, with lack of enthusiasm, read them in a dry tone. With a kingdom at stake it was quite ironic that King Dayne Ruler of the Uri was stuck in a chair, listening to ledgers. He could barely pay attention, on an empty stomach. His mind tended to wander on these occasions. He looked at the table that had a map engraved on its surface. It showed in its center the top view of the castle. Their home was settled at the base of the mountains that served as the border to the desert region.

 

His thoughts simmered on war, the curse on his life, the life of his father, and Grandfather. His entire line, since the beginning, was at war with the Darklings. It was by chance that his ancestors settled by the mountains, and so it was their fate to struggle constantly for territory, and by mere luck they have been able to maintain their lands for centuries.

 

They did have an advantage though. The mountains stretched all the way to the ocean, serving as a natural wall that deterred the Darklings. Not only was the terrain an impossible climb for their armies. It gave the Uri the high ground. The Darklings had a better chance forcing themselves through the open valley that was fortified by many settlements, blocking their path. On the map there were wooden pieces like pieces of a board game, except the pieces represented real men. Thousands that depended on the men in this room. He often feared that he would be the King that would fail them, and bring ruin to his realm.

 

They all listened to the scribe apathetically, Except Bishop Talos. He looked pristine in his green robes. He sat up straight in his chair, parallel to the long hat that sat on top of his balding head, not leaning to either side, listening as if every word was important. The Grand Marshal, General Kaffkin, also was stiff as a statue, or a more fitting description would be a gargoyle fuming on its perch. He looked like a weathered warrior with scars all over his face, also a tip of his ear was missing. He shaved his head, unbothered with the scars on his scalp. He told King Dayne once it made him look more intimidating. He was right. It could also be the scowl on his face as he stared into nothingness.

 

The other five who sat at the table were his Knights of the Wall. Deacon, Desson Gallagry Aimon, and Calligan. As a monarch these Knights were his most important asset, besides the wall that served as protection for all these centuries. His great great great, grandfather was king when they placed the last brick. On the map it was a line that connected to the mountain and stretched several miles in a semi circle blocking the castle from the waist land. It was their greatest defense for their home.

His head rested in his hand as he rubbed his temples. Good gracious would it be terrible to wish for something more interesting?

 

“Scribe,” he said breaking the silence.

 

“Yes, your Majesty?” The startled scribe said.

 

“Enough with Ledgers, are there any battle reports?”

 

Desson cleared his throat “Yes, my Lord.” The knight was broad shouldered and tall. It was comical watching him flip through delicate pages with his giant hands. “I had received word from Fort Riggz that they had been attacked. The Captain reports many minor injuries, twenty major injuries leaving men out of commission, and forty three deaths. They thwarted the attack, but they have been crippled. They are requesting reinforcements”

 

General Kaffkin shifted in his chair to face Desson “Fort Floura is the one next to it? Gallagry, that is in your sector. We could send Riggz troops from there.” Kaffkin grabbed a pole, and with precision pushed a horse of Gallagry's colors to the area that represented Riggz.” We'll need to supplement more troops from your trainees, how long will that take?

 

Sir Gallagry slid a piece of parchment closer to him, taking a quick read of his inventory “I can have troops ready to go within the week”

 

The Bishop who had been content on listening turned full torso towards Kaffkin. “If I may add a word .”

 

“Yes, Bishop. What is it.”

 

I have received word from one of our medical branches. They are short on supplies. If Gallagry would be so kind as to escort cargo along with his troop?”

 

Gallagry perked up. “I most certainly can. Send your things, and my people will send you the bill.”

 

“A bill? Your grace, I would hope you would eagerly do the church a service, since you're heading there anyways. Could you see it in your heart to waive the fee?”

 

“Bishop, I'm a humble humanitarian, and of course I would, but your extra baggage will double my expenditures, I simply can't.”

 

“Very well.” Talos's response was half hearted. “I'll send the inventory within time.”

 

Aimon rubbing his chin couldn't take his eyes off the board. “Has anyone else noticed that the Darklings have been attacking more often? You think we're heading towards another bloody year?”

 

“It is a bit overdue, I fear,” said King Dayne regretfully. “It's been quiet for too long, but let's not be too hasty, our worry might be for not.” King Dayne clapped his hands “Enough of that mellow talk,” he rubbed his hands together with glee in his eyes.“Lets change subject to something more pressing. Tell me how is the training going? Any promising Candidates?”

 

Deacon rested his arm on the table “We have plenty of prospects, I'm sure the tournament will be entertaining this year.”

 

“Certainly my squires will carry the games this year” said Calligan

 

Deacon gave a chuckle “A wonderful joke.”

 

Calligan drummed the table “I have a wonderful idea, that you will find hilarious. How about this year we do a knockout tournament. We'll see whose squad is better. One hundred gold at a five to one odds, What you think?”

 

“Let's make it one fifty.”

 

“You're on.” said Calligan.

 

“I'll get in on this,” said Desson. “If you remember, my Commander was the squire with highest marks last year. Clearly my training is superior.”

 

“Would it only be a knock out this year? We can’t pass on the other games.” said Aimon

“It would be a disappointment if we didn't have the races. My cavalry are eager to participate.” said Gallagry

 

“Perhaps we can split the games into two categories, one will be the tournament, the other will be the other games, then we'd have two possible winners,” said Desson.

 

“That would take quite a lot of planning. It's practically double the work” said Deacon.

 

Calligan leaned in, fingers on the table for dramatic effect “double the work, double the profits, the crowds will come.”

 

Just when the conversations got interesting, King Dayne's stomach rattled in protest. It was a struggle to fight his own will. “There is a lot to plan now, We'll have to advertise to the other kingdoms and get the gold to come.” His stomach gurgled again. “We will get more into it next time, I can’t be productive any longer.” He stood up, and a servant came to adorn his cape. The others stood, waiting for the King to leave. As he reached the door he turned around. “Lord Erront, A word?”

 

Deacon stood, and nodded “Yes, Sir” He followed him, and walked by his side.

 

“So, my boy, how are things going with my daughter?” King Dayne wanted to sound inquisitive and not intimidating.

 

“Things are going well, Sir. Your daughter has been a delight.”

 

“A delight? Great to hear,” he said suspiciously. “She has been a delight for quite some time. Is there something else you are hoping for?”

 

“No, my Lord. I couldn't ask for more.” Deacon wavered in his reply.

 

“Perhaps then we can move on to the next step then?”

“The next step?”

 

“The Proposal! I assume my delightful daughter is eligible for marriage?”

 

“Ah, of course. I wasn't sure how to go about it. Ladies do like the occasion to be a memorable event.”

“Yes I see, true it is, true it is.” He thought of his own proposal so many years ago. What to do, what to do. “The harvest festival is around the corner, maybe we can make our preparations...” he trailed off, “Yes, there is a lot to consider,” he was speaking to himself out loud. “but of course the main concern is making it not too conspicuous. We want it to be a surprise. All in good fun.”

 

“Perhaps the Charity Ball?” said Deacon “It happens every year, perhaps with some subterfuge, we could make sure the right people are in attendance?”

 

He clipped Deacon on the shoulder “Of course! That's brilliant. Perhaps we can discuss more with a night cap. How about you come join us at dinner tonight?

 

“It'd be an honor Sir.”

 

***

 

 

 

The carriage arrived at the royal palace. The guard stepped down from the top and opened the door. Diana stepped out supported by his hand, and Lima followed after her. Miss Tansy had trotted to them. She must have had someone watching for them, to be here so quickly. She approached them in a fuss “There you are” said Tansy “And not a moment to Spare,”

 

“What is it lady Tansy?” said Lima

 

“We are going to have a guest tonight.”  she urged the girls forward with prodding, “We haven't much time.”

 

“Who?” said Diana

 

“Lord Deacon. Your father sent word he is joining us, they both will be arriving soon,” despite her worrying she glowed “Oh how exciting!”

 

“Why?” Lima exasperated noises, much like a cow would make when you throw a rock at it.

 

Diana walked alongside Lima. Tansy leading the way “You know eventually you're going to have to make nice with him. He's going to be your brother in law.” Lima looked at her frowning. It was the wrong thing to say.

 

“Until I see a ring, there is still a chance that Dorca will come to her senses.”

 

Diana tried a different tactic “You and Deacon were friends once.” she was now regretting her words seeing her sister's brows crinkle “Could you be friends again?” She finished, waiting for her consequences.

 

Lima frowned even harder “Diana, that would be crazy..”

 

“Maybe,” Diana leaned in so Tansy couldn't hear. “You love Calligan. Why should it matter?”

 

Lima didn't respond right away, she was trying to temper her anger. “Yes, I have Calligan now.” She whispered back, resuming the rest at normal volume “But, Diana.” she paused, pained by the next words “He betrayed me. Diana, he was in love with me.”

 

Lima was expecting more surprise from Diana, but her eyes darted away suspiciously. Tansy's ear twitched, it was hard to be seen not heard in these kinds of situations. Diana wrapped an arm around Lima. It was an awkward move while walking down the hall, but she did it anyway, offering a squeeze. Lima put an arm around her back “I don't want to forgive him.”

 

“Are you mad at Dorca too?”

She pondered, looking away, ashamed of the question. They relaxed from the hug “I don't want to be, it's not like I could blame her for what father wants, but she knew about Deacon and I. She wanted this to happen. Otherwise she would have said something”

 

Diana made the face again, darting her eyes away.

 

“What?” said Lima accusingly.

 

Lima stayed focused on her, her stare burrowing into Diana. The guilt was too much, she finally gave in, the jig was up. “Dorca did talk to me about it.”

 

Lima cocked her head,“She talked to you? When?

 

Diana started fiddling with the frills of her dress “After their second outing. She came to see me,”

 

Lima ears perked up. “Why?”

 

“She had a good time with him, and it was eating at her. I didn't know why she was upset. But she told me about you guys.”

 

Lima felt a pain in her chest. “You already knew about us? And she was upset?”

“Couldn't stop crying.”

 

Diana's hands rubbed rougher on her dress. She couldn't look Lima in the eye. “Well, she didn't want to do it, but” Diana inhaled, sharply battling with the urge to run. She could run, but that would be silly, the cat was out of the bag now. “uh, Don't be mad,” She focused on her hands rubbing her dress.

 

“What did you tell her?”

 

“I told her if liked him, she should see where things go.”

 

Lima's eyebrows furrowed, Diana's felt the heat from Lima so much that she had to look back at her. “I was too rash, I didn't think about your feelings.” she looked sad ears drooping. “I didn't understand how you felt.”

 

Lima stopped walking, Diana stopped with her. Tansy could no longer hear the foot falls, and stopped in her tracks as well. She was hearing the whole conversation. Did she dare try to hurry them along? No she couldn't, there were some things beyond her control, this was simply not her place.

 

“You didn't understand?” Lima searched Diana's eyes, her anger boiling, her voice raised in volume “You didn't know my feelings? Why didn't anybody talk to me?” she wanted to scream, but She saw Diana's eyes well up with tears.

 

“I regret it” she managed through the sniffles, “You both started hating each other, and I didn't know what to do.”

 

Lima cringed, and her anger died out.

 

Lima scratched behind Diana's ear. “I'm sorry. I shouldn't be angry”

 

Diana wiped her tears away. “I miss the three of us together.”

 

Lima recoiled a little bit. “I think... I miss us too, but I need time”

 

Tansy patiently waiting, cleared her throat. She had a schedule to keep after all, and she wasn't sure how much longer this was going to take. They both didn't say anything more, Diana nodded, grabbed her sister's hand, time was enough. Diana's guilt was off her chest.

 

Tansy brought them to a battalion of maids. Diana gave her a squeeze, then they split to their individual baths. Hers was cold. She put her hands in the water and with thoughts of flames, and feelings of warmth her hands glowed releasing heat into the water, bringing it to a decent temperature.

 

“Sorry Miss,” said the maid, “the baths were made premature.”

 

“It's all right. I made it work” Diana said.” she slumped down into the water blowing bubbles, tickling her nose. Tansy peeked in “Ladies, no time to squabble. lets go, lets go.”

 

The maids scrambled, one held a towel ready to wrap around her, and a second dried her hair. They picked a sleek blue dress, white lace embroidered all around the ruffles of the skirt.

 

It was quite a chore to get ready simply for dinner, the effort seemed wasted when she would, in a couple of hours, be rolled up in her bed with a book. A chair was pulled out for her at the table next to Liliana. She couldn't help pinching her little cheeks, she was so adorable. Lima was across from her, and Jerica sat next to Lima. Deacon sat in the honor seat Dorca by his side.

 

Diana was the last to be seated, so the servants brought forth the first course. Her father talked up the meal making a show of it. It was common practice, with guests, to present courses in stages rather than all at once. The Chef stood between her father and Deacon telling in great detail, of the nights courses. impatient she satiated her hunger with buttering her toasted bread. The buttery crunch was satisfying, she almost ate her portion before the Chef's finished the description of the menu. Fortunately everyone was hungry so the next dish was brought forth swiftly, a foreign favorite of bite size pieces of fish topped with roe, and sauce that had a kick to it.

 

King Dayne speared a piece onto his fork, “What is the silk trade like these days?” He said to Deacon. He stuck the fish in his mouth and savored the morsel.

 

“It's been educational.” He has encouraged broadening my scope. Loosening the leash as it were.” Said Deacon

 

“Ah, testing the waters, “He has mentioned you're in your second year of internship.” I remember when my father did the same for me, he offered me a Ranch to take care of.” King Dayne reminisced “Business venture's weren't my forte, but I did enjoy maintaining that Ranch.”

 

“I feel the same. I have a knack for the business, and it's rewarding. I dedicated imports of new dye from the twelfth Kingdom. They say it's water proof. I've been experimenting with our fabrics.”

 

Lima and Diana shared a look, Lima rolling her eyes, Making a slicing motion with her finger, her tongue hanging out. Liliana was in fits of giggles. Their Mother made eye contact, and they felt cold. A literal cold shoulder, feeling the effect of Ice magic.

 

The main Dish, cutlets glazed in mustard sauce, and a side of greens, was placed before them.

King Dayne, extended a hand glowing, and the salt that laid across the other side rose up, and floated to him. He dashed his vegetables, while Deacon went on about his accounting. The Dinner was interrupted by the Butler.

 

“Your Royal Highness, pardon the intrusion, a Courier wishes an Audience.”

 

“Now? Can it wait?”

 

I'm sorry Sir. He persisted. It appears to be a message from the Red note.

 

They all shared a Glance at the Butler. Diana knew the Red note to be an unbelievably expensive method to send mail. If someone had sent a red note they made sure the information didn’t get in the wrong hands. Red notes were nothing to take lightly.

 

King Dayne, placed the napkin from his lap onto the table, and stood up, straightening his clothes “Let him in,” he said

 

The man that entered wore traveler clothes, and from the pouch he revealed a letter, that wasn't actually red, but the seal was a large red wax, with an emblem of cherubs blowing bugles “Pardons your Majesty, an urgent message.” He handed the note to King Dayne

 

“The Church? What on Dura would be so important for a red note?”

 

The Man bowed, and he was excused. King Dayne brought his thumb to the seal, summoned magic that turned the skin a glow, the wax permeated, and a seem bled into the crease of the letters lip. The most dangerous letter to open was now open. He pulled the parchment, and read its contents, everyone was still except Mother. “What does it say, dear?”

 

His eyes grew wider with every sentence, they rolled down the page and up to read it again, then he lowered the letter down to his side, before it dropped to the floor.