If was the last day of training and everyone had gathered for their daily preparations when a loud explosion in the distance disrupted the routine leaving a tense silence.  Everyone froze, waiting as the eerie feeling permeated through the training grounds, waiting for a reason to jump into action.  What greeted them was the force of the fallout hitting with such force it leveled the few buildings nearby, tossing people amongst the debris.  She remembered a sharp pain on the right side of her head and then her vision went dark.

***

The pain in her arms and wrists registered first, then the sensation of hanging, and finally a gnawing headache.  She heard muffled voices around her, but they sounded so far away.  Still, she listened as a strange voice bellowed, “Is there anyone stronger than this whelp?  Or is your whole race weak and broken?”  His thick accent was slightly slower and heavier, like words were spoken further back in his mouth with a pleasant lilt rather than flitting off the tip of his tongue.  

Ugh, my head.  Where the fuck are...  Kalla was startled by a loud thud as the man laughed.  “None of ye has the balls to play with me?  Perhaps ye women will put up more of a fight.”

She forced herself to feign unconsciousness as he caressed her. 

“Leave her alone!  If you want a fight, I’ll give you a fight!”  Zaid.

“There’s a good lad!”  She felt the giant move away, heard the rustling of chains before Zaid's voice rang out loud and clear.

He talked over his captor as he was dragged away, “Do not give in and work together!”

“Ye can try to be strong, but we’ll see how strong ye are when you watch your city burn and we take ye women!”

The clang of a heavy metal door announced their departure.  Slowly, she opened her eyes to look through her lashes.  Molten red was the only light, and she could hear the sound of a forge nearby.  Fucking Formorians.   We're underground then...gods my head hurts.  There was one guard with a large axe by a door several times larger than normal.  Everyone was battered and chained, some to the floor, some hanging.  And some were obviously dead.  Movement caught her eye on the opposite side of the room.  Two men were helping pull another into a sitting position against the wall.  Tahir.  

He was covered in blood and ripped clothing, his bonds so tight they might have reached the bone.  His face and feet were swollen and bruising.  So, he was the one they were torturing.  His eyes were closed as he sat motionless except for shallow breathing.  She bit the inside of her cheek in frustration. 

Occasionally guards came in and take new prisoners.  Sometimes they returned quickly, sometimes it seemed to take days, if they returned at all.  Then they returned Zaid.

The giant threw Zaid at Tahir’s feet.  “Is that the best ye got?  Humph, your lands are better in our hands.  We will take control of the Abyss and use it.”

“…” Tahir rasped.

“ye're weak.  We are strong.  We don’t fear the darkness, we embrace it!  And soon, so will all the Magical Realm!”  

“No…”  His words rekindled the light in Tahir’s eyes.  

“And this one,” he pulled Kalla towards him, “is particularly delicious.”

“Tahir...don’t…” Zaid’s voice was so soft that if the Formorian heard it, he gave no reaction. 

“Take him!”  The man ordered two soldiers to drag Tahir away before turning to Kalla.  “It is fascinating to me how these dragons allow women to fight in their army.  Such a proud race and yet they can’t even protect their weak.”  He slid his hand down her body before lifting her off of the hook she was dangling from.

“Our women...are just as strong as our men…”  Zaid appeared exhausted but his eyes were glowing. He saw the slight inclination of her head as she opened her eyes as the giant turned towards Zaid. 

Kalla forced her bonds apart, blood trickling from her bitten lip to suppress the scream of pain as the ropes ripped flesh.  She twisted out of his arm and reached for his axe as she fell, swinging it directly up and deep into his chest.  Arms appeared behind their captor to wrap a chain around his throat.  Zaid had jumped up and was pulling against the man’s neck with all his body weight.  While the man stumbled and tried to free himself from Zaid’s embrace, Kalla yanked the axe free and leapt to bury it in his skull.  Seconds passed like hours until he finally fell over in a pool of blood.  Zaid hopped to her after extricating himself from the fallen giant.  

“Kalla, we--”

“You’re badly injured.”

“Nevermind that, we need a plan.  I know where they took him, but by the time we get there he may...”

“Zaid?”

“They have an affliction doctor; they are attacking his mind.  He will never give them what they want so their only way is to muddle his mind into believing he can’t fight the Abyss any longer and will relinquish control.”

“We will find him, Zaid.”

“You don’t understand.  He’s already fighting the Abyss...if he feels his mind starting to slip away, to save his people he will unleash it.  If that happens...there won’t be anything left.”

“He’d never sacrifice himself just to--”

“Not him, all of us.  Not defeat, but eradication of an entire race; man, woman, child...the shadows would take us all.”

“Your people aren’t their objective.”

“No.  He can’t let them corrupt the Abyss any further or the boundary between realms will break and spill the Empyrean Plague into every part of Pneumatos.”

“Okay, then we’ll move quickly.”

He sighed, “I can make a distraction; you will have to rescue him alone.  Even if I could move fast enough, someone has to stay with the rest of the troops.”  

She looked into his eyes and nodded, reluctant.  “Tell me where he is.”

***

The place was surprisingly unguarded with only a few soldiers patrolling the area.  The air was cooler away from the forges, fresher and slightly salty.  The sea.  Well at least the way out will be easier once we break free.  She heard the loud screaming and banging from the prison cells, and several guards came rushing by to investigate.  She gripped the dagger she had taken from the fallen giant, more like a sword in her hands but a weapon nonetheless, as she waited for them to pass.  Carefully her bare feet padded down the hallway, stopping at intersections to check before moving on.  There it was the fifth cell on the left.

She pulled the heavy door, holding her breath as it let out a slight creak.  She waited, holding her breath, but nothing happened.  She slid in to find Tahir crumpled against a wall, eyes slightly more opaque than normal.  She hurried to him.  

“Let’s go,” she whispered.  

“The Abyss is calling...so weak...” 

“Even more reason.”  She tried to pull him up, but he remained limp. “Tahir, come on.  Zaid is creating a distraction, but it won’t last forever!”

“Skia is lost…”

He's not speaking to me...  She dropped to her knees, looking around for anything that might end the spell.  There was nothing.  I have to do something...it’s a spell, a spell.  How do I break a spell of the mind?  How do...wait…If the ag-dìch sigil lets me see the memories of others perhaps, I can speak to them the same way?    

0She placed one hand on his heart and the other on his forehead, chanting.  “Cor memoriae, aperiam in lucem.  Fide, dilectione, spiritus reditus in domum suam.”  His skin under her hands began to glow as he hissed in pain, arching his back with a scream.  "Shhh, quiet!  You must be quieter!"  she hissed.  Please work!  I’m sorry, Tahir...bear with it...  Tahir continued to writhe, and she began to see swirling darkness around them.  And then she saw them; creatures darker than night, like screeching shadows of pitch clawing their way through everyone in their path.  The darkness kept spreading, reaching villages and cities...and then, they were not just ripping peoplebut tearing th em open to take their souls.  The intent was not to defeat or kill, but subjugation.  This is the Abyss?  This is what you have been fighting?  Only after she tasted bile did she realize she had vomited and was shaking.  This is what you fear…  

“It’s so dark now...I should have sent more scouts; we should have known the attack was coming.”

Kalla’s eyes went wide as she looked up at Tahir.  “Tahir!  Can you hear me?  Tahir!”

“The Abyss is so close...I can feel its shadows reaching to me.  I am weak.  Our race is weak.”

“Tahir...” 

“Tahir?”

“That voice...Kalla?  Kalla no, don’t stay here!”

“Tahir, you have to fight it--”

“No, don’t look!  It’s over now; we weren’t strong enough to fight it.  I am so tired, so tired.  We failed...I failed.”

“You haven’t failed!  Right now, Zaid has rallied everyone to fight so I can free you.”

“Zaid...they took...”

“You have to fight this!  You are stronger than this.”

“We are weak...the Abyss will take over us all...”

“What the hell Tahir!  Snap out of it!  It’s a spell, an attack on your mind.  Fight it!”

“It’s too late...”

“I’m going to save your ass because that is my mission, but if I have to drag you I will never let you hear the end of it, do you hear me?”

“I lead them into a place like this, into destruction...”

“Then wake up and fight beside them instead, dammit! You are a dragon, remember that! Don’t let this spell seduce you.  You are one of the strongest, proudest people I know.  You are Prince of the Lunar Dragons, fucking act like it!”

“Kalla?”  He turned to see her for the first time.

“Tahir, we have to move.  This battle isn’t over, but your men need you.  Leadership isn’t about always being right!  It’s about taking responsibility and facing the consequences!  You didn’t force anyone into battle, so stop being so fucking arrogant!  It isn’t about you; leadership isn’t about the leader!”

“Arrogant?”

“Each of those men chose to follow you because they believe in you and your cause, not because they believed it was going to be easy or everything would go to plan.  They are waiting, hoping, for you to return and lead them.  They will follow you, to victory or to hell.  And if you face death, you face it together in battle--that’s the difference between an army and an angry mob!  Remind them of that strength and pride!”

“Hope is cruel.”

“No, hope is painful.  It hurts to face the horrors of reality and still believe, still fight.  What is cruel is not believing in their strength in return!  Fight at their sides!  Embrace that arrogance and remember who you are; Tahir, Prince of Skia, leader of the Lunar Dragons and Guardian of the Abyss, and your story doesn’t end here.  Break this enchantment and lead them to victory!”

Her vision blurred as she panted from the weight of the spell.  Tears fell freely from amethyst eyes, collapsing against his stomach too exhausted to lift her face.  She felt a strong arm wrap around her.  Her lower lip quivered as she rolled to see his ruby eyes glistening with his own tears as he roughly pulled her towards him and rested his head against her shoulder. 

***

Kalla helped Tahir up as they hurried to catch up to the rest of the battalion.  Once they reached the shore, it was covered in men, some dead, some fighting.  Tahir froze as he watched them.  Don’t die...I don’t…  Then he heard Zaid’s voice.

“Regroup!  Stay together and leave none behind!  Second formation!  Wait for it….wait...NOW!”

Two giants came towards them, but instead of splitting, they all moved towards the one with an axe.  Three climbed until they were close enough to blind him, while others used fist and weapon to attack until finally he fell.  The second giant was distracted by Zaid unleashing an enormous amount of magic.  Starlight fell like a meteor onto the giant as he rushed towards Zaid.  With a burst of darkness the giant was thrown back, but Zaid was barely standing.  “Keep going, I will take care of this one!”  There was a roar as the men rushed forward.  Shadows began to coalesce around Zaid as he waited for the next attack, keeping his focus on his final attack.  A bright shot of starlight pierced through the giant’s abdomen but it continued to run forward.  Zaid tried to move but his broken foot prevented him from moving fast enough. 

Kalla only felt the rush of wind as he left her side.  Zaid fell back in shock as the giant was torn apart when a giant claw knocked it aside.  “For Skia!” boomed Tahir’s voice from an obsidian dragon with glowing red eyes.  The men cheered and began to fight with renewed vigor.  Zaid watched as the dragon dove again and again, destroying every enemy he could find.  Zaid looked away when he felt Kalla helping him up.  

“If you can take that form, why didn’t you from the start?”

“We couldn’t.”

“Huh?”

Zaid sighed, “Go there, by the road.  We can set up camp as we prepare to return to Skia.  While we were unconscious, they put up a barrier around the barracks, silencing our  magic and draining us of our strength.  Unfortunately it also made us more susceptible to the pull of the Abyss, so many were crippled with fear initially.”

“Then why was Tahir able to break free?”

“Tahir is that powerful,” he grinned.  “But even for Tahir, it is taking an extreme amount of energy to maintain that form and not give into the tainted whispers in his mind.  If he tips from protecting to revenge, even for a moment, it’s over.  If he loses that control, he’ll destroy us.”

“But wouldn’t that kill them too?”

“Yes, that is probably why they were easily overrun, hoping to control us rather than fight.  It was a suicide mission, but had they succeeded the Abyss would have been unleashed on the Magical Realm.  Skia would have been instantly swallowed and before word reached anywhere they would have moved in to try to control it.”

“Can it be controlled?”

“No.  It would have destroyed them, all races know this, but someone convinced them otherwise.  None in the Magical Realm can control it; it’s not a weapon.”

“What is it?”  She gently sat him down. 

“...Tahir will have to explain...I don’t have the words.”  

***

Over the next few hours, men collected by the road scavenging for food and supplies.  Kalla helped with what little healing ability she possessed, mostly splinting and finding makeshift crutches.  They needed to move and get to a real healer.  She heard them cry out Tahir’s name as two soldiers rushed forward.  

“General, he collapsed as we were returning!”  Said one of the soldiers.  

“General?  Here, lay him here,” she gestured to an open area and knelt beside him.  “Tahir?  Hmm...no fever, and…. nothing appears broken.”

“He needs rest.  And possibly a healer.  All dragons will go into a deep sleep once the threat is over if they are injured badly enough so that our bodies can begin to heal more efficiently.  Why else do you hear of older dragons hiding caves?”  Zaid grinned.  

“Then, let’s hurry and get everyone fed and ready to leave.  This isn’t an ideal place for any of us.”

“Agreed.”

****

The darkness faded into light as he squinted, turning his head from the lamplight.  He tried to raise his left arm to cover his eyes, but dropped back down with the weight of the splint.  He let out a frustrated sigh.  Everything hurts.  As consciousness took him, the voices around him became clearer.

“Oh, he is waking up now.”

“Finally.  Tahir, can you hear us?”

“Zaid, Kalla?  Where are we?”  He looked out from under his right arm.  

Zaid helped him into a sitting position and answered.  “Mesec’shar.  You and a few of the others need an actual healer.” 

“How many were lost?”

Zaid looked down, “Five.”

“Who?”

“Tahir--”

“Who?” he repeated firmly. 

“Tadeus, Halma, Adyl, Daoud, and Jaeda.”

“Jaeda?  How is Guja taking it?”

“He’s...as you would expect.”

“I would like to speak to each of their families when we return to Skia.  Will you arrange that?”

“I will as soon as I leave, sir.”

“Kalla, I will need to get word to Naofalas once everything is in order of what has happened here.  We may not have evidence of who is behind their attack, but we do know that it is more than a small band of rejects.  Can you send word ahead so he will be prepared for us?”

“Of course, but right now just rest.  We do have some scouts out looking through what’s left of their camp for any additional information, so it will be a couple of days before we can leave anyway.”

They turned to go but he called back to them.  “Kalla, stay?” 

She nodded at Zaid and sat down on the edge of the bed looking at Tahir.  Once Zaid left the room she grinned, “Would you like me to read you a story?”

“Tsk, as if you brought a book with you.”

“You never know,” she laughed.  “I actually do love books, you know.”

“I wanted to ask you something.  Though I am loathe to admit it, Naofa was right.  I was teetering on the edge of madness and yet you were able to somehow reach me.  What did you see?”

“I, well, everything.  Vicious shadows, souls torn apart, a vortex of despair...I’m not sure I really have words for it.”

“That is the Abyss.  If we were to fail in our stewardship, it would be unleashed upon the entire realm.  But it constantly tries to seduce you into giving in and embracing it.  I would have, if not for you.”

“I think you would have come to your senses before that, but maybe I helped you get there in time to turn the tide of that battle.”  Her lips parted as she watched him take her hand.

“Soon you will return to Naofa but should our paths ever cross again I want you to know that I trust you with my soul, not just as a soldier but as a true friend.  Thank you.”

“Tahir…”

“And please train my men that are able as you see fit.  Your strength will only benefit us all.”

“Perhaps the medicine was too strong?  It’s not like you to say things like this.”

“Maybe not, or maybe there are just sides to this dragon you haven’t seen.”  He smirked. 

“...Tahir...”  

He reached out to catch her hand firmly as she slid it away.   “I meant what I said.”  After a brief moment, he released it.  “Now, you must have questions about the Abyss so ask.”

“Hmm...What is it?  Where did it come from?  Why is it?”

“Naofa has taught you about the Great Sundering?”

“Yes.”

“Did he explain why it happened?”

“A war in the Angelic Realm spilled over into the Magical and Mortal Realms.”

“That is a very simple explanation, but yes.  In the Celestial Realm, the gods began creating beings they called angels.  In time they began creating other races and began to disagree over how to govern all of their ‘children.’  Then they found out some gods, Elgafar in particular, were not just creating beings but were actually having children of their own amongst the other races.  Not only was this a violation of what several felt was ethical, but it caused a potential imbalance in power. Those righteous gods rallied their angelic or created ‘children’ and attacked, initially hoping their brethren would return to their old ways; their goal was to eradicate anything that was deemed ungodly.  Eventually, many of the biological children were murdered.  The remaining children were hunted while the angels Elgefar and the others who sided with him created, fought to protect and hide their brethren, perceiving them as siblings.  The other angels began to call them fallen ones or demons for siding with what they felt were evil gods.  Eventually those angels created a curse to weaken the demons’ spirits and fester destruction in their hearts.  However, something went wrong, and they unleashed a plague upon angels and demons alike, twisting their souls into emotionless, amoral, beasts.  They called it the empyrean plague.  Soon angels and demons were not only infected but were corrupting parts of the Magical and Mortal Realms.  That is when the gods stepped in to separate the realms and prevent a war in one from spilling into the next.  Together, they exorcised the plague from the Angelic Realm by channeling it into the Abyss, but they found the malice it had created could only be contained and not destroyed.  So, they sought guardians with a strong resistance to magic, resistance to corruption, and strength enough to defend all the realms.  Mortal creatures were ruled out because of their short life span and lack of magical defense.  The Angels had already shown themselves a poor choice and while the gods could have guarded it, it was decided it posed too great a risk.  My grandfather volunteered and after considerable debate, convinced them to appoint Lunar Dragons as guardians to the Abyss.  It exists in Skia, but is heavily guarded.  We are all tainted by it as the Abyss tries to warp our minds.  Therefore, there is one key, which passes from guardian to the next.  I am the only one who can open the portal alone until I relinquish my duty to the next guardian.”

“Could they not destroy it?  Or purify it somehow?”

“It’s not a physical weapon; it’s a void of remorseless torture that attacks the minds and hearts of any close to it.  You cannot wield it any more than you can an emotion, but it can be contained.  The danger is mostly from those who try to wield it, ignorantly infecting themselves as much as their victims.  Initially the intent was to remove it, but destroying the vector, did not destroy the corruption itself.  In order to truly be rid of evil you have to be willing to truly rid yourself of good as well.” 

“So, you just have to bear this because the Angelic Realm had a temper tantrum?”

He laughed, “Basically.  Naofa probably has a better way of explaining that, but we were the best candidates.  We have a high resistance to magic and since Mah created us as children of the night, we are resistant to the call of darkness.  And as you saw, we are strong enough to fight great enemies.”  

She looked down at her hands.

“Kalla?  What is it?”

“It just seems unfair.”

“It is unfair, but life isn’t fair.  I could have refused; I had a choice and I made it.  I don’t regret it.”

“I, I should let you rest.  Are you hungry?  I can have them make you something.”

“That would be lovely, thank you.”  She got up to leave.  “Are you sure you’re alright?”

“Yes,” she smiled, “it’s just a lot to think about.  I’ll go see what they have for food and be back soon.”

They reached the outskirts of Lindow. Thousands of tiny lights twinkled in windows as the wind began to howl around the camp. 

 "Sir. What are your orders?" 

"Summon the captains to my tent." He tore his eyes from the horizon. "No fires but send out scouts to report back before morning." 

"Aye, sir." 

 Inside the tent the faint glow of a lamplight gently illuminated the faces of four captains and their general, mocking the cacophony of agitated voices. 

 "Tahir, we should attack now while we have the cover of darkness!" 

"No! That would be expected and surely, they have guards keeping watch for such an attack!" 

"We can't just walk up to them and ask them to surrender!" 

"What if we split up? Broke camp and surrounded them?" 

"We don't have enough--" 

"Do you have a better idea!?" 

"We need evidence--" 

"This is happening because the courts haven't done anything!" 

"They have to be aware first, in order to act!" 

"How many lives have been lost by their inaction!?" 

"They can't just take someone's word, or every little disagreement would--" 

"To hell with that! If they won't act, we will!" 

"Why are you arguing? This isn't--" 

"ENOUGH!" 

 Silence fell as his fist hit the table. He looked down and drew a heavy breath. "We need an actual plan, a strategy, not just an attack. They will have been preparing for this and there is no telling how far they will go. We cannot risk the lives of our own people any more than necessary. Moreover, we must obtain evidence, or it will be our people held responsible for these crimes and others could fall victim to these bastards once they are finished with us." 

 "But we cannot sit and wait, Tahir! We must stop them at all costs!" 

"Did you not hear what he said? If we mess this up our people will take the blame and countless others will die!" 

"So long as the enemy dies with them, we can move forward! The truth will come to light in time." 

"How? Without evidence, our people will be put even more at risk!" 

"If we fall here, there is nothing to stop them! We must set our emotions aside and have a plan!" 

"Put them aside? Are you out of your mind!? That would make us no better than they are!" 

"Tahir, how many? How many more children will we sacrifice to these arguments and pretense of peaceful negotiations?" 

"I hardly say showing up with an army and watching from a distance would be considered peaceful negotiations..." 

"We are far enough away that it shouldn't be a problem. For all they know we are merely passing through if we are seen." 

 He clenched his fists as he listened to their arguments, trying desperately to silence his own rage and find the answer. He looked at her, the only captain not speaking; the only one not directly affected by these atrocities. Her eyes were vacant, staring off at something he could not see. Long lashes blinked once, and she looked at him. 

 "Tahir." Her voice was quiet and gentle. The room fell silent. "Let me go." 

He regarded her questioningly. 

"Let me be your eyes and ears and begin the assault from the inside. I can collect the evidence and monitor them so we can see their movements..." 

He was already shaking his head, but she reached out to him and continued, all eyes watching her resolve. 

"Naofalas said we needed evidence...to do that, someone needs to be on the inside and even if they were to allow one of you in, they would never let their guard down. This is a role I was meant to play." 

"No." 

"I can alert you each night that things are going to plan. Just give me three days...just before dawn on the fourth day, attack." 

"If they find you out, they will kill you." 

"It is hardly different than if I die in battle.  You must obtain evidence, or this will continue." 

"No." 

"Tahir, you know this is the best way--the only way..." 

"NO!" he yanked his arm from her, startling everyone in the room. 

 He looked at the faces of his generals, filled with concern rather than anger at the smoldering fire in his eyes. 

 "My lord," it was Zaid. "She is right." 

"NO!" he bellowed. He was shaking with fury demanding to be unleashed and burn everything into oblivion. I don't want anyone else...please no more... 

 "Not here, not yet," she whispered. Panting as he used her words to hold back the madness, he looked at her as she and Zaid approached. "Tahir, you must trust me. This is why Naofa sent me with you." 

"She is right." Zaid spoke carefully. "She has shown us she is truly one of us. Let us trust her as one of our own." 

 At that, he could say nothing. To disagree would be a lie and to forbid it...Control. He closed his eyes and turned away with a heavy sigh. 

 "Very well. But we will take you as far as we dare, and we will move in as soon as we lose contact, or you give us a sign." 

She nodded. "Understood." 

"Zaid--" 

"Already on it." 

 As the tension lifted, the remaining captains began discussing different attack scenarios and approaches. It was not yet twilight when he found her in her tent, preparing to leave. 

"I don't like this." 

"I know, but it's--" 

"The only way." He sighed and wrapped his arms around her. "Be careful." 

She offered a mischievous grin. "Since when have you known me to play it safe?" 

He couldn't help but smile a little at that, but his anxiety pulled her in tighter. He inhaled the scent of her hair and closed his eyes. 

"Promise me." 

"Tahir..." 

"Promise me." 

She gripped him tightly in response, burying her face in his chest. 

"Forgive me...it is unfair of me to ask such a thing of you." 

She shook her head. 

"I..." 

She sighed and lifted her head. There were no tears, no fear, no indecision. In her deep violet eyes was only a determination and strength he prayed he could find within himself. 

"I will bring you back to Naofalas." 

Her smile was bittersweet with a slight tilt of her head as she cupped his cheek. He drew one hand to cover hers in this moment when everything passed between them. When nothing passed between them as Zaid's familiar footsteps approached. She stepped back to collect her pack, her hand lingering under his until the moment the tent flap was pulled back. 

"My lord, Kalla: it's time." 

***

The plan was simple really:  Go up to the front gates, knock, and ask to be let in.  If one thought about it, it truly was foolish and yet that was exactly what she was going to do.  She thought over the details as she dressed.  Tonight, she would approach Lindow and do just that, under the guise of an annoyed ambassador of the Solar Dragons and Naofalas to investigate a likely meritless claim by the Abyssal Dragons that their children had been stolen and carted away to this city for gods know what nefarious reason.  

She went over the ag-dích sigil to make sure it was prepared to record and the subtle spells to conceal it were in place, before slipping into the dark flexible clothing of a rogue.  She pulled her hair up into a long high ponytail with a dainty ornament to adorn it.  As she put on the overdress, glyphs sparkled in the twilight upon activation.  The dress was long but open in front and very light to allow for freedom to move as she pleased.  Next came long boots, also covered in protective spells.

“Those are ridiculous!”

Kalla raised an eyebrow and smiled.  “Oh, but here I was told they were fashionable, even sexy!”

“I didn’t say I disliked them; I said they’re ridiculous.”

“Well,” she ran her hand up the length of the thigh high boot, “no one said fashion is comfortable.  But when trying to infiltrate the enemy’s home, it’s best to try to blend in.”

“This is really necessary?”

“I admit either these need a really long time to break in or this pair of boots isn’t made right.  I can barely walk.”  

“I have a feeling they aren’t worn for very long.”

“Why Tahir, I didn’t expect them to have that effect on you so quickly.”

“Ehem,” he coughed, “that’s not...what else do you need?”

She wrapped her arms around him, pressing against his back, “A little faith?”

He put his hand over hers with a sigh, “It is not you I do not have faith in.  I don’t know the extent of their depravity or how versed they are in memory spells.”

“I promise I will come back to you.”

“Come back safe.”  He turned and took her cheeks in his hands before pressing his lips against hers, willing all the words he didn’t know how to say to somehow be understood.

*** 

 "Well, well! So, pep talks and kind words are what is going to bring your team success? I do hope you have actual training behind that captain. A soldier should speak with his actions." 

"Tahir." She did not turn to look at him as she spoke. "Words are important too. More specifically, word choice." 

His laugh was rich and sultry, like a languid summer evening as the breeze caresses your hair in the glow of fireflies. "Keep telling yourself that! On the battlefield, no one cares about your emotions or how polite you were; if you hesitate you die. Simple as that." 

She frowned, "But this isn't a battlefield. This is training." 

"Precisely! And they must be trained to be tough, or they won't make it." 

"Hm...so you would rather have tough broken men rather than confident strategic ones?" 

"What are you talking about? Training weeds out the ones who will break; only the strong will make it." 

"And what happens to the rest?" 

"Kalla, not everyone is meant to be a soldier." 

"Perhaps," she turned to look at him, "but who are you to decide that?" 

His anticipated response died in his throat when he saw the ferocity in her eyes as she rounded on him. 

"How old are they when they come to you to train? Barely more than children sometimes! Perhaps they have lost everything and just want something to believe in! Or perhaps they feel pride in who they are and want to do all they can to protect it and those they love! They look up to you--will you torment them?  To what end? Because they don't fit your model of strength? That makes them worthless in your eyes, is that it?!" 

The men behind them had stopped their training and were staring at them in awe. He wasn't sure if it was her boldness or if it was something else...surely it was her boldness. He tried to reply but she didn't let him. 

"Every person has a right to be who they want to be and no one--NO ONE--has the right to tell them they can't! No one knows the strength in a person's heart until that moment when they must be strong! You have no right to tell them who they are or who they can become!" 

His temper snapped, "And how precisely should I do that? By simply being kind? This world is cruel little human, and a moment of kindness can get you killed, or worse, kill everyone you sought to protect!" 

"TEACH them!" she countered. "Instead of cutting them down, bring them up! Find what they are good at and draw more of that out of them! Help them hone that first. Then help them see their weaknesses as an opportunity to become stronger--" 

"That is what we do!" 

"No..." she shook her head in frustration, the fine strands that had slipped free swaying slightly. 

Why was he continuing to listen to this nonsense? He opened his mouth to speak but she continued first. 

"You dwell on the weakness to cut them down, demoralize them with comparisons, beat them with their own insecurities and fears! That isn't strength! That's everything you claim to hate!" 

"YOU..." She ignored the glowing red eyes as he harshly grabbed her, unwilling to stop now. "Strength is facing hardships!" 

"Strength is healing from hardships, not the hardships themselves!" 

"It is not my job to heal the world, Kalla. People must take responsibility and heal themselves!" 

"Of course they should! But your words can and do help or hinder them, and that is the responsibility of a leader!" 

He responded with mocking laughter. "Should I sit down and have tea while we all share our feelings?" 

"Don't be absurd! Take their fears, their insecurities, and lead! That is what leaders do! True leaders don't lie, but they don't tear people down no matter how bad it gets or how hopeless it appears! That only breeds despair! You help them face their fears together; you take their insecurities and pair with comradery; you find the thing they do well and build upon it so they can transfer that confidence to new challenges!" 

"What do you know of war?" he seethed. 

"How many battles will you win with an elite guard only? Is the strength of your people only within a chosen few?" she spat back. 

"How...dare...you..." His grip tightened, surely there would be bruises now, but she held his gaze. Violet rage looking into an inferno of endless red. 

"Your people need a leader, not another soldier! So be one!" 

He growled in response while those around them sought shelter as the wind picked up. When did he lose control? Her unflinching gaze challenged him to the very edge of his sanity. 

"Tahir, see in them what they do not see themselves! Bring out that truth! Make them all strong!" 

"You....understand...nothing...of...my...people...." All he could see what fire now, fire and small pinpoints of purple glaring back. 

"Is it because you are afraid to admit your own vulnerabilities?" His hands had become claws, digging into her skin but she knew he couldn't see the blood or her pained expression. He was lost in his rage and pain and guilt, but if she stopped now he might really be lost to it. 

He roared in response and somewhere he registered her cry in pain. And yet...she persisted. 

"What makes a weakness a weakness?" she forced out through gritted teeth. "Is it because it is a flaw in ourselves, something we should be ashamed of or hide? Or is it because we have decided that is what it should be?" 

He blinked. 

"Words can help make it safe to show our weaknesses so that we may learn from others and turn them into strengths. But that cannot happen if there is fear, guilt, or intimidation. Strength, true strength, comes from love. You cannot cultivate love with competition, insults, or judgement. There can be no growth without touching their hearts..." 

For the first time in this exchange, she closed her eyes and groaned in pain. His grip didn't lessen but... 

"Their hearts?" 

"Yes...love, admiration, friendship, compassion.  It gives...purpose." 

"Many things can give purpose." 

"But only one will not give in....you must...give them...purpose." 

He blinked away the smoke that clouded his vision as the swirling air stilled. His eyes returned to burning embers as his claws reverted to human hands as wave of grief washed over him. She sighed. 

"Tahir...actions matter, but a leader must also speak to the hearts of his people. If you cannot reach their hearts, can there truly be trust?" 

All he could do was continue to watch her as she spoke. She had looked into the very depths of his rage and withstood it. More than withstood it; she forgave him for it. Something, he had yet himself to be able to do. 

"I don't know," she quietly rasped as she looked down, "why you hold so much pain inside of you. But let us fight it together. Such battles are not meant to be fought alone; draw on their strength so that they can draw upon yours. I have not lived as long as you, but what battles I have seen taught me that this is what it means to be a soldier." 

 Suddenly her world spun for a moment, and all went dark, but she soon realized she was still awake. She felt two warm strong arms around her, the rise and fall of a broad muscular chest under her face and could feel a chin pressed firmly against the top of her head. Naofalas had warned her Abyssal Dragons had short tempers but that was a bit of an understatement now. Gingerly she wrapped her arms around his waist. 

'What an odd reaction to have with someone who is just one of his generals, and an honorary one at that.' she thought.

*** 

 From a distance they watched her slowly approach. Zaid looked anxiously at Tahir but said nothing. As he turned his eyes back to the gate, Tahir spoke. 

"Ask." 

"Sir?" 

"My actions have raised questions. Please speak to them so I may quell your concerns as best I can." 

"Sir...I..." 

Tahir turned to him, "Speak freely, Zaid." 

"A-are you really going to wait three days? Will this work?" 

"Hm. Hard to say but..." His red eyes turned downward with a wry expression, "that is what she asked for is it not?" 

"Yes." 

"Then I suppose it won't do to go back on my word. In fact," he glanced back in her direction, "I'm fairly certain she would be quite angry with me if I did not." 

He heard the quick intake of breath as Zaid realized his gest. 

"I do not fear many things, but that woman's wrath is one of them." He turned to Zaid and winked for good measure. The man seemed to relax a little and resumed his watch. 

"She has made it to the gate!" 

Tahir nodded with a serious expression. "It is done then. We will place our trust in her and must keep our end of the bargain." 

***

The gate to Lindow was large and shining silver. The city walls, which did not extend the entire way around the city as one of the sides opened up to farmland, were made of beautifully carved obsidian. Most of the designs entailed flowers and vines typical of Svartálfar given their elven lineage, but where one would find woodland creatures in the design these carvings had all manner of ferocious beasts. She stopped before the guard before her. 

"Well, what have we here?" 

"My name is Kalla. I am here as an emissary for Dragons of the Sun." 

"Ha! Like they would ever conspire with humans." 

"What would a guard know of such things?" said a voice from the shadows. 

 A tall and slender man with fine dark hair to chin and golden eyes emerged. He was dressed in black leather with silver gauntlets and boots and stitched with equally brilliant thread that complimented the city walls. His features were smooth and graceful, but not so much to be called delicate or fragile. There was a strength in him that seemed to be from the earth itself. 

 "My apologies, Lady Kalla. My name is Ludis, first knight to Queen Eliana. Please, let me greet you as a guest to our humble city." 

She bowed before him. "Sir Ludis, it is an honor to make your acquaintance. I have been asked as a neutral party on behalf of the Solar Dragons to discuss some rumors stirring among the Abyssal Dragons." 

"To go to such lengths for mere rumors?" He shook his head, "Ah, forgive me." 

"Not at all," she smiled. "I only know what they have said, and I can only assume there is a history of discord for them to desire a third party. But such conversation is perhaps best left to Queen Eliana, lest more rumors stir." 

"Indeed." His smile did not touch his eyes. "Well then, may you find us a gracious host so we may quell these rumors quickly." 

"That is my hope, Sir Ludis." She offered her most innocent and childlike smile. 

He nodded, "Let us start with a tour of the city then." 

"That would be wonderful! I have only heard of your city in stories!" 

 He regarded her suspiciously for a moment, but seeing nothing but curiosity, he offered her his arm and escorted her away. The tour of the city was quite thorough: Ludis was sure to take her to all the fine shops, food vendors, politicians, the library and schools, and public parks. She was sure to shake as many hands as possible greeting each person with a warm smile, but one stood out. They were leaving the orphanage when a young girl ran into them, nearly knocking Kalla down if Ludis had not caught her. 

 "You see, as Svartálfar, we understand what it is like to be cast out of society so take in all who come to our city. Even if they are not of our race, we will take them in and teach them to be members of our society should they so choose to stay. Children are especially vulnerable, so we have several orphanages like this on---Watch where you are going girl!" 

"I, I'm sorry. I..." 

"Oh, Lana! What are you doing running off like that?" The gruff voice belonged to an older man who blinked in shock and quickly suppressed anger as he approached. "Sir Ludis, I apologize! I, I did not realize..." 

He sighed, "We have a guest in the city. I would expect that you see to it your charge isn't running into everyone on the street from now on?" 

"Of-of course! Lana, Apologize to Sir Ludis and his guest!" 

Kalla held her arm as she helped the stammering girl up. 

"I'm sorry Sir Ludis. It won't happen again. I'm sorry." She began bowing as profusely as she was apologizing. 

Ludis nodded with a dismissive gesture of his hand. "No harm done, go on then." 

The man and girl scurried away, leaving quieted reprimands and threats in their wake, as Ludis guided Kalla to the next location. 

 Later that day she was provided a room, lavish and opulent, to bathe and dress before a meal with the queen. She looked out at the late afternoon when a knock at her door interrupted her thoughts. Ludis, dressed in rich red and gold, led her to an even more luxurious chamber where Queen Eliana waited. She was thin as was typical of Svartálfar, with dark purplish skin and long white hair. Her blue sapphire-like eyes graced a delicate face that many would call beautiful. However, there was something that seemed a little off about her... 

 "Lady Kalla! Sir Ludis has told me so much about you! I must say, it is rare to have such an esteemed guest to our city!" 

"Oh, not at all! The honor is all mine, Queen Eliana!" she bowed gracefully. "When I was first approached to come here, I could hardly believe it!" That wasn't even a lie. "The stories of your fine city pale in comparison!" 

"That is wonderful to hear! I hope your time here will help assuage any fears. We respect the lives of all our citizens and want to bring out the beauty of life all around us." 

"Indeed! It is evident in all aspects of your society I have seen!" 

 A smile can hide a multitude of emotions, but a truth can blind one to hidden meaning. They discussed the impressiveness of the city over the meal and soon it was finally time for the purpose of their meeting. She dismissed the servants and Ludis rose to fill the wine glasses before she changed the subject. 

 "So, tell me, Lady Kalla. What are these rumors that have these dragons so upset?" 

"Well...I hate to say after all I have seen. It seems so uncouth to even discuss." Dinner was no place to discuss such nightmares. 

"But if we are to lay them to rest..." 

Kalla sighed. "There are rumors that Abyssal children have been taken and murdered or turned into slaves." 

"And what do you think? Did you see slaves or murdered dragons?" she laughed politely. 

"Not at all! I saw many happy people!" Both Svartálfar relaxed slightly. 

"Splendid! So how do you think such rumors began?" 

She blinked. "I wouldn't know...perhaps there was a visiting dragon, or I did see one that had been lost and taken in by a gentleman from one of the orphanages today... I could see that causing misunderstanding, but honestly, I try not to focus on rumors. I'm much more interested in the truth." 

"I see," the queen beamed behind her glass. "Well, I am so glad we could lay these concerns to rest. Please feel free to stay as long as you would like and wonder the castle grounds. Sir Ludis will escort you into the city any time you like as well; we wouldn't want any other rumors started you know." Her smile was kind and warm, and it chilled Kalla to the bone. 

"Of course! Thank you! Lindow has truly exceeded my expectations!" 

 After the queen excused herself, Ludis took her back to her room with instructions on how to call for him. 

"Sir Ludis, I have heard the gardens are the most beautiful in the world. Would I be permitted to walk them at night?" 

He hesitated a moment, "I...I don't see why not. Follow this hallway to the end and turn left. Go right after you descend the stairs. There are guards on duty should you get lost, they will be able to call for me." 

"Thank you!" 

 *** 

 "Kalla, I need you to gather evidence. The celestial court will not act without it, and I fear Tahir's anger will get the better of him." He sighed as a pained expression overtook his feature. "This is an extremely dangerous mission if the rumors are true...if that is the case it is likely a much deeper issue than stolen children. But you will be the only one that could get in the city to gather information who might be given enough freedom to actually get it. Help him see this is the only option." 

 She nodded. 

 "You will need to use a low detection spell to place viewports. Make sure you prepare it before you arrive in the city, so they do not sense it. We don't know much about Lindow, but the Svartálfar are elves regardless of their choices and thus have strong magical abilities. Make it something that is easy to cast on contact, like before. In Vullith you used your hands, right?" 

"Yes." 

"Good. That would work well. I will teach you how to cast it on people as well. That works a little different as you will see things through their eyes, but there is a higher risk of being detected, so be careful who you cast it on.  I will recast the wards, make sure to keep them covered.”   

“I know Naofa," she tried smooth over her annoyed tone with a smile, but he continued unaffected by either.   

“Remember, moonlit waters will be the clearest to scry. But above all, be careful! No unnecessary risks!" He pulled her into a firm hug. His thin body still made her feel safe. "I don't care what Tahir says. Do you understand? Come back to us safe." 

"I will, Naofa." He sighed at the reassuring smile she offered and nodded. 

 *** 

 The moon reflected gently in the water of the pool. She chose one by a fountain so the ripples would distort its surface. She touched the water very slightly, searching the magic viewports she had placed during their tour in the city. She found the one she placed on the girl, Lana. She forced herself to keep her composure as she saw the true horror beneath the city lights. Taking it all in, recording it for Naofalas. The pain seared her soul with each scene. Finally, she touched the water again and closed her eyes. 

 A tear slid into the water as she heard someone behind her. She turned to see Ludis. 

 "Sir Ludis?" 

"Lady Kalla. Are you alright." 

She smiled, "Yes. I was just thinking how painfully beautiful the moonlight is." She looked up at the moon. 

"Ah, the moon. She is a beautiful and fearful mistress," he nodded. 

She rose, "I think it is perhaps time for me to retire." He offered her his arm to walk her back before bidding her good night, but no sleep found her; only waking nightmares. 

 It was nearing the end of the third day, and she was walking back from her visit to the gardens when she heard something behind her. She paused and looked back, forcing herself not to fade into the shadows. This mission she was a messenger and ambassador, not an assassin. However, she kept her senses sharp and ready. She opened her door half expecting someone to come at that moment, but silence was her only company. 

 "Lady Kalla." 

"Queen Eliana," she bowed. "What can I do for you?" 

"There is talk of dragons on our borders, do you know anything of it?" 

She blinked blankly, "I know a few brought me here and are awaiting my return, could that be them?" 

"This would be more than a few. You are certain it was only a small escort that brought you?" 

"Yes." She allowed her eyes to open in wide confusion. 

"Well, perhaps it is to relieve the escort or ensure there are no skirmishes in your return." She offered a smile with a dismissive wave, "Nothing to worry yourself about. You are safe here and light always brings clarity with the dawn." 

"I..." 

"Please do excuse my intrusion. Have a peaceful evening, Lady Kalla." 

 With that, Eliana turned and glided down the corridor leaving Kalla with a knot of fear inside. She slowly closed the door and began to prepare for bed while trying desperately to think of a way to warn the others, when a sharp pain hit the right side of her head, and her vision went dark. 

 Slowly she opened her eyes with a groan, trying to pull her hand to head when she felt resistance. 

 "Take it easy...you are safe here." Ludis. 

"Wha...what is going on?" 

"It's a long story but you are safe." 

"Then, why am I tied up?" she pulled on her bonds as her eyes adjusted to the darkness. 

"I didn't feel it was necessary, but Queen Eliana thought it would be best just in case..." 

"In case what?" 

"In case you panic and try to leave. We are going to attack the Dragons." 

"But...but why? I..." 

"Don't worry. I'm here to protect you." He glanced out the window. "This is an abandoned farmhouse on the outskirts. They won't think to look so far from the city and there's no one nearby to know we are here. Sorry it's a little cold though. I have stuff for a fire, but I can't start one until the battle begins or it will give our location." 

She blinked at his genuine regret for not keeping her warm enough. Did he honestly have no idea... 

"Sir Ludis, why are you protecting me?" 

"Queen Eliana. If you are in league with them, she thinks we could use you are a bargaining piece. If you aren't, you don't deserve to get wrapped up in their temper tantrum. We will be able to crush them quickly and you will be one of the ones who can share the truth of what happened." Ah. 

"Temper tantrum?" 

"Don't worry," he shot her a mischievous grin. "We saw their army with our scouts and watched their movements. They were definitely preparing an attack, but instead they will walk right into our trap!" 

Will? So, the battle hadn't started yet. She needed an excuse, something to get a hand free..."Thirsty." 

"What?" 

"I'm thirsty." 

"Oh, right." He pulled out his canteen and pour some water into the cap. 

"I need to sit up." 

"But..." 

"I'll choke if I stay lying down. Do you really think I'm going to run away into a full-on battle? I'd die!" Well, that was true. 

He looked at her for a long moment and sighed. "One hand then, you can roll onto your side some." 

 She nodded. She waited until he reached for the cap of water, pulling the small dagger disguised as an hair ornament and freeing her other hand and legs in two quick motions. He only had a moment to turn towards her and attempt to draw his sword before his neck was broken. His shocked face staring in the darkness as she stood over him. 

 "Sir Ludis, I am truly sorry. I cannot stay here. Perhaps...perhaps you were unaware,” she turned away, unwilling to look at his broken form on the floor any longer.  “What I knew of you was kind and polite, but whether you let me go or I left you unconscious, they would kill you under the assumption of helping me. But for your kindness I will not allow them to use your body or soul for their nefarious deeds." 

She sighed.  This is going to be...unpleasant.  She carefully began taking what gear she could use from his corpse but refusing to look at his face.  She heard something metallic fall to the floor as she removed his breastplate.  She saw a locket that had fallen out from his vest and removed it. "If any who know you survive, I will return this to them." With that, she covered him with all the bedding and searched the small home.  

“Surely there is flint or something, some--ah!”  She returned to his body and started a fire and uttered a solemn farewell.  Once he was covered in flames, she quietly slipped away into the night.  

 It was near twilight when she reached the camp, rushing forward to find anyone who could get word it was a trap. But what she saw was murdered men. The ones left behind to guard the camp, to maintain the ruse that her escort was waiting to take her back. The ones that had little defense because of that ruse. She fell to her knees as tears began to stream down her face. 

 Aadil whose smile was the delight of every tavern maid they met. Taj who could not be prouder of his darling daughter he had hoped to see for her next birthday. Galib who had the heart of a poet and the fighting style to match. Yaraz, barely old enough to enlist and proud as a knight to be chosen for this mission. And Kafir, who had spent countless nights on the streets as a child and had finally found something to believe in. 

 In the distance an explosion erupted, and she swiveled towards the sound. White lightning was striking something outside the city amongst the flames. Soon the flames died, only to be restarted by someone else. It had begun. Unconsciously she moved towards them when a voice stopped her. 

 "Kal...la. Thank...goodness...run. Evi...dence…" She rushed to Kafir's side, trying to summon what little magic she possessed, but her magic was limited, offering little more than tricks. 

"Kafir...hang on!" 

"Thank...you, Kalla." 

"Shh, don't talk. We need to get you to--" 

He started to cough violently, spewing blood over himself. "No. There's a...horse. Hid it...North...go to...Naofa." 

"Kafir! I can't leave you! We need to wait for Tahir." She glanced worriedly at the growing explosions as red lightning joined the white and flames were blossoming everywhere around the city. He grabbed her arm and pulled her close to him as she tried to support his back and hold his head up. 

"They ambushed...us. Tahir...took them any...way..." 

Her eyes widened. He knew it was a trap. He had done it to protect her, to protect the evidence. "No" she whispered. 

"Kalla." He managed between pants. "Complete. The. Mission." 

She shook her head helplessly as he coughed. 

"Plea...se...save..." 

"Kafir? Kafir! KAFIR!" 

 She buried her head in his hair, sobbing uncontrollably. After a particularly large explosion she turned to look at the battle and slowly rose, laying Kafir gently down. She closed her eyes on reality and took in a shaky breath. All she could see were the images of the children; all she could hear where their screams; all she could feel was empty. When she opened her eyes upon her fallen comrades she began to laugh. It was a hysterical, broken laugh. One that only insanity could draw out after the mind could no longer handle the pain. And as if coaxing dying embers to life, it awoke something inside her. With a lingering look at Kafir, she turned toward the battle unaware she was whispering to herself. 

 "I'm sorry Kafir." She started to walk toward the Lindow. The dragons were still well outside the city and fighting from a distance by the looks of it. Good. 

 "You died for me. And for what? So, they can go to trial? So, they can live on while you die? Those children—your children. Tormented. Tortured. Do you know what I saw Kafir?" Her voice cracked, "it wasn't just Lana being raped by the highest bidder, or orphans being beaten." 

 Tears streamed down her cheeks as the wind around her had picked up, drawing her hair up and out like the sun as it crests the horizon in the morning. Her pace was even and steady, almost graceful. Her voice, contemplative. 

 "They experimented on them. It wasn't just torture. They would tear them apart and rape them, force them upon each other even, in front of the others just to torment them. To prove their power over them. Their blood stained not just floors but ceilings, tables, walls, knives, saws, ropes, stones...everything.”  She began to shake as the images began to swirl around her as she continued, “They wanted to keep the blood running, slowly. To maximize the suffering.  It powers their magic. The more hideous the experiment—the more pain and suffering, the better. They used them to test all sorts of medical procedures and perverse fantasies.  And it wasn’t just dragons."  The sigils along her arms began to burn red in protest as more and more images were released about her, but she could only feel the pain of bearing witness and the never-ending tears falling from her eyes.  “They used the children they bore and some of their own as well.  It is indescribable depravity.”

 In a circle around her, red and orange flames began to dance, yet she continued forward unaware, stopping just far enough away from the battle to avoid the majority of the dragons.  Any who came to close would be drawn into her horrible visions circling her in the air.   

 Around her, the faint appearance of wings appeared, like a fiery wispy ghost hovering behind her.  A teardrop of deep emerald appeared on her forehead.  The voices in her mind were no longer just from Lindow as she continued on her way towards the battle.  Her past began to blend together in a nightmare as the wards on her arms became so bright they could be seen under her sleeves before burning through them.   

She saw herself as a young child at her father's funeral. Step. Her mother's fear and planning to escape before she silently left them. Step. The disdain when she first came to the magical realm and began training. Step. The one mission she failed to complete. Step. The desperation to survive.  Step. The fondling. Step. The humiliation. Step. The fear. Step. The pain. Step. The anger. Step. Her brother's last request.  

 "And the worst part? They begged to die and were kept alive in that state. Because they were using their souls as sustenance for the elite. Their own children…  Even for a Svartálfar that is too far. That is something only a Lamia would do.  And they," her eyes widened as she opened herself up to the rage, the guilt, the pain, "cannot be permitted to live." She stopped, now in the center of a thin circle of flames as she fell to her knees and looked upwards, drawing her clenched fists down with a horrific scream that was lost amongst the sounds of approaching soldiers. And then everything stopped silent for a brief moment. 

 There was an extremely large burst of sound that blew everyone to the ground and then meteors began to rain down on the city of Lindow. Screams were drowned in the bursts of fire and destruction. A blessed rain silencing all the voices in her mind and seeking to purge this evil from existence.   

The wings around her began to solidify into tendrils of actual fire, like molten feathers spread wide and the whites of her eyes began to turn a deep shade of crimson.  Her sleeves were burned away, and the red wards fought to reclaim the freed memories and began to blister and ooze.  On her face an intricate design, reminiscent of the wards but in a more flowing script had blossomed over her forehead and cheeks.  It resembled a vine that was restraining, restricting something inside.  The green marking appeared to be the center of the design, but no matter how she strained it continued to throttle her power.  

I can take no more pain.  I must silence the voices.  I must stop the violence; I must end this.     

 Tahir spun as soon as he heard the scream and was quickly knocked to the ground by the force of it. When he rose, he saw what had been Lindow. Horrified, he thought he could see people running, burning, and yet fire continued to rain from the sky. 

Abruptly he stumbled into a run with a yell to his men to fall back.  Soon he could see her on her knees, encircled in a ring of fire, and crying.  Then it hit him.  The memories she had stored for Naofa.  Horrific images of abuse and defilement.  He could hear it; he could see it; he could taste it; oh gods, he could feel it.  Belatedly he realized that the sigils Naofalas placed on her made her a vessel, a place to store the experiences of others for the sake of this task.  And right now, her heart and her mind were broken.  

 Her hair was flowing and began to glow like the embers in a fire as it swirled around her; she was in the eye of a terrible tempest, spurred on by what she had witnessed, her past, and the realization that the Lamia would sacrifice the city to get away with it before any justice hearing. Her mind was unhinged and as Tahir’s men came closer, they were drawn into her memories.  Many of them became overwhelmed, falling to their knees to weep or vomit or merely screaming in disbelief.  Tahir called for his men to stay back but for many it was too late, they were already too close.  He raised his hand as a sudden burst from the earth later, his men were sent reeling backwards through the air and out of range of the released visions.  He scanned his men, searching.  

“Stay back.  Do not go any closer to her until I can subdue her!”  Ahh, he found him--”Zaid, keep them back!”  Zaid opened his mouth in protest, “Are you crazy?!”--but it was too late.  Tahir had already turned and was moving closer.  He gritted his teeth and turned to the distraught company, “Lord Tahir has said to hold our ground and so we shall!  I do not know what that was, but he will make it right!  Let us tend our wounded as best we can for now and establish a guard; I do not want to be caught unaware again!”  

 Her voice was broken, like an instrument damaged beyond repair and her hands were blistering from controlling the firestorm. The remnants of the gloves she had taken from Ludis had fallen to the side.  Tahir tried to speak to her but his voice was lost to the cacophony of agony. He looked helplessly at her. Her eyes were a deep glowing crimson, no longer the loving and fierce twilight. Tears streaks were evident in the ash that had dirtied her face as blood began to trickle from her nose and mouth. She was killing herself, not just to win the battle, but to completely and utterly annihilate whatever or whoever she held responsible. There had to be a way to stop this. He moved towards her. 

 The tattoo on her face felt like it might sear her very soul as she gritted her teeth against the pain.  Physical pain was inconsequential right now.  

It hurts...so much pain.  How could they!?  What must they have thought?  Someone, anyone, save them….save ...me?

“Save you from what?” 

“It can’t be…”

She looked up into the familiar face.  She was just as lovely as Kalla’s memories.  High cheekbones, soft lips with slight laughter lines, clear cerulean eyes, ivory skin, and freckles.  Her long blond hair fell to her waist.  She was dressed in her usual uniform.  Emerald green tunic dress with a simple golden pattern at the hem and neckline and a rope-like belt of white and gold woven together and then tied to delicately cinch her waistline.  Both ends of the belt hung down to her side, one slightly higher than the other.   Everything about her was elegant and delicate, always relying on her magic to draw strength during a battle. 

“Why not?  After all, this is your heart,” she offered a warm smile.

“Caer?”  she said aloud.

“You haven’t answered the question.  What do you need saving from?”

I…   “This hurts.”

“Why,” she knelt down with a sorrowful look, “does it hurt?”

“The children, the death, Asar...all the years...”

“But who is causing THIS pain?”  Gently, she took her friend’s face in her hands, pulling her up into gaze intently at her.  “Why is your heart torn in two?”

She gasped in realization.  Not everyone was Lamia, not everyone was guilty, what was she doing?  Her tears were steaming her vision with self-hatred as she looked down at her hands in disbelief, her onslaught paused.  This is not who I am.   As if a dream, her friend was gone.  Caer…  I must save them.  Then she felt another presence.

At first, she did not look at him, but he could feel the swirling emotions like the inferno taking her over. He knew that inferno, and he knew there was only one way to stop a fire; suffocate it.  And then a moment of hesitation.  He could feel the confusion and immense suffering but pushed it aside and began to move behind her, but the wild warning look in her eyes stopped him. Right now, he was not Tahir, but a potential threat.  

 "Not much of a choice, heh, Kalla? Always a pain in my ass?" He muttered, drawing upon courage he didn't quite feel. He approached as quickly as he dared, being sure to make no sudden moves and maintain a neutral posture. He stopped right in front of her and knelt, slowly, gently reaching out to her cheek.  “My, my,” his voice was soft and affectionate, “look at your once delicate hands.  Come now, Kalla,” he raised his eyes to hers, “it’s time to go home?”

Home?  She looked into his eyes and saw...understanding?  Acceptance?  

Please come back to us, Kalla.  She blinked.  Was that...his thoughts or, no.  He wouldn’t think such a thing.  

 "Fight it together. Such battles are not meant to be fought alone. Remember that, Kalla?" A tear slid down his face as he saw her calming and swiftly pulled her into a tight embrace. The fire seared into his flesh, as his armor quickly began to disintegrate. But he couldn't just surround her with his own flames; he needed to control himself or they would both be lost. Part of him yearned to give in and abandon this forsaken world. Now, like this...that’s fine. Instead he leaned toward her ear with a grimace. "Isn’t this enough, Kalla?  If you plan to die, you will take me with you. And if that is what you want, I accept that fate.  I know you can feel the firestorm inside of me." She was stiff in his arms as the blaze around her was slow to quell. She blinked back tears as the wings began to fade and a new light was appearing in the city.  Circles of soft white had begun to appear.  "But Kalla, I want you to live because I want to live in a world with you in it. If we die here, so be it; let the fires consume us both. But if you wish me to live, you must live too." 

Her body began to relax ever so slightly and awkwardly in his embrace.  Her mind remembered something else then:  Tahir, stop!  You said you wouldn’t let it control you!  You can prove that your clan can control their power!  She began to shake and cough.  She could feel his anger and his heat at what he had witnessed, it threatened to overwhelm even hers, but the tenderness in his voice was louder than the harsh visions she had nearly lost herself to.  The blood drained from her face as the ruins of the city lay in the distance before her.  No.  The haze had been lifted from her vision as she curved one arm stiffly around Tahir, she stretched the other towards the city.  The fading wings turned brilliant blue, green, and gold hues as a soft blue haze enveloped the city.  She began breathing heavy with the weight of the spell as she again strained to maintain it.  She could feel her hands starting to burn as she pulled the fiery rage back into herself.  A gentle, healing golden rain began to fall over the ruins of Lindow and the area surrounding it.  The sigils on her arms began to glow normally, once again collecting the horrid memories she had witnessed.  Her whole body felt like it was on fire as the flames around them died.  Through gritted teeth, she closed her outstretched hand as several sparks of white light shot up from the city like stars and sighed as she slumped against Tahir’s embrace. 

 Slowly, the magic that had been cast on her began to dim and the memories were once again held inside her.  The night sky was obscured by clouds, thick with the smoke. Her swollen, burned body slowly began to shake and collapse. She began to cough uncontrollably and turning to prop herself up just in time began to wretch, heaving long after her stomach had nothing more to give. She nearly collapsed when she coughed again, spewing blood everywhere when her hand moved too slowly.  She felt a strong arm wrap around her waist to hold her during the violent spasm.  She reached out, clinging to him with one hand as she tried to pull herself up.  

Her eyes were once again their brilliant deep purple but her voice raspy and damaged. So much pain and loss and guilt; it was the worst sound in the world. She couldn't speak, but she tried to force out a whisper.  I have to tell him!  I have to let him know that some of the survivors…”  Her vision blurred as she willed herself to speak.

 "Ta...r....so...ry..." With that she passed out, convulsing as she collapsed into his arms. As her eyes closed, the wings turned to a white smoke that dissipated while the tattoo on her face was fading.  

 He cradled her in his arms and gently tried to wipe away what he could before standing and rushing his men as gently as he could.  Relieved, they froze when they saw the state of their general in his arms.  

 "Zaid, get me a blanket. Quickly!" 

"Here! What are..." 

"I will put her stasis...I have little healing ability. She needs Naofalas." He focused for a moment, using the blanket to first wipe her face, then placing one hand on her heart and the other on her forehead.  A green glow surrounded her as he wove the power within the earth as a shield to slow further damage. He could imagine how his men looked as he heard them: terrified, vomiting, screaming, crying... 

"Tahir, what..." 

"I don't know," he sighed, "and I don’t know what happened out there but there are people still alive--we can’t abandon them.  Something in her...she protected and tried to heal survivors and I can’t let them die.  She must have had her reasons for doing what she has.  It is my duty to ensure we finish this mission and that means rescuing who we can from that wretched place and returning her to Nafa with the memories as evidence.  At the very least we owe it to her,” he kept his gaze on his hands.  “Zaid, you must get her to Naofalas! Do you understand me? Stop for nothing!  I will be right behind you!" 

Zaid stood frozen for a moment. 

"Zaid!?" 

"A-aye sir!" he stuttered, realizing the gravity of the task he had been given. 

Tahir nodded as he waited for Zaid to transform, carefully laying her in his claws. 

"Zaid, approach the gate in human form. Not all of the sun Court looks friendly upon us." 

With that, the Abyssal Dragon lifted into the air and Tahir turned to his men, but no words came to him.  Perhaps it was because there were no words for what they had survived, or perhaps it was that his thoughts were racing away towards Al'Kourra. 

***

Everyone jumped when the door hit the wall with such force it was a wonder it remained attached.  A protesting voice followed from the hallway as two men appeared.  

“Lord Tahir, please.  You must be weary, and we must---” upon noticing Naofalas he gave up, “Lord Naofalas, I apologize.  He would not listen.  He wouldn’t even--”

“It’s quite alright.  I assume he was not alone when he arrived?”  When the man nodded, he continued.  “Please see to our other guests, I will take it from here.”  

With a deep bow the man left, closing the door behind him.  Naofalas watched as Tahir moved towards her, reaching out then pulling his hand back as a painful expression crossed his face.  The moment was over as soon as it started.  He waited.

“Is...is she…?”  

“We are doing all we can.  It would help if we knew more about what happened.”

“I am not sure I can tell you much more than Zaid.”  He pulled his eyes from her to look at Naofalas, “I have never seen anything like it.”

“So I have heard.  Please,” he gestured to a chair in the room, “sit.  Anything might help.”  

He nodded and began to explain the events he had witnessed.  After a long moment Naofalas sighed.  While the wounds to her arms and hands had begun to heal, there remained fine delicate lines of the tattoo about her face.  

“Tahir, this shouldn’t be possible.  No wonder I could never identify the type of magic she held within her,” his hand hovered just above her forehead.  “It does appear to be some sort of restraint.  I shudder to think if she was capable of this much damage what would have happened without it.”

“So someone put that on her at some point knowing her power?”

He nodded.  “But I have no idea who.  I met her when she was quite young.  My guess is it was placed shortly after birth, presumably by one of her parents.”

“Her parents?”

“She spoke very little to me of her past, only that her family had perished, leaving no ties to her former life.  She was still so young I was hesitant, but I detected no deception.  However, this tattoo doesn’t explain why none of us felt this power inside her.”

Tahir looked up at him, expression unreadable.  “Who is she?”

“I don’t know.  But I take it from her memories that we could access that you found survivors?”

“Yes.”  

“That will at least help at the courts, but unless we can figure out this riddle or she wakes with the answers--which is unlikely--I don’t know how much it will help.”

“Nafa, we can’t let them--”

“We won’t have a choice!” 

“...”

“Tahir,” he softened his tone, “we will do all we can.  But we cannot ignore the fact that she destroyed an entire city and murdered many within it, no matter what their crime may have been.”

Tahir looked at her labored breathing.  Three days, and she was still in a deep slumber.  He walked to the window and looked down at the gardens.  He remembered her eyes as he held her, rich violet etched with gold.  No matter what happened, she returned to herself in the end.  I have to trust in that; I have to have faith that she will come back to us.

“Tahir?” Naofalas questioned, keeping his expression neutral.

“Nafa.  I would like to stay by her side until she wakes.”

He nodded. 

Tahir pulled the chair right next to her and sat, gently taking her hand in his and waiting.  

***

The sound of birdsong filled the air and the smell of fresh baked bread.  The warmth of the sunlight was everywhere and the world seemed aglow.  But gods do I hurt.  Slowly she forced her eyes open.  The gasp beside her registering belatedly and she tried to move.  

“Get Nafa!  No, don’t sit up yet!  You’ll hurt yourself!”

“I…” Water.  So dry.  “I am...ugh, water?” she managed as her tongue stuck to her teeth and cheeks.

She felt his strong arm behind her for support as the cool smooth rim of the glass was pressed to her cracked lips.  She started to cough as he pulled the glass away. 

“Not so much Tahir!  You’ll choke her!”  She blinked, trying to force moisture into her dry eyes.  My body is like a desert or…she froze...a dead fire.  Abruptly she began to feel pain in her hands and arms and realized they were heavily wrapped.  Her head began to ache as she struggled to remember what was happening.

“What happened?”  she inquired but only silence answered her.

Are they even going to answer or just keep looking at each other like that?  I’m right here!  Tell me!  After a moment, she decided to find out for herself if they weren’t going to respond.  She struggled to get up and felt heavy bandages tugging on her skin.  Strong arms guided her back down with a tenderness that belied their appearance.  

“If you aren’t going...to tell me, ho--”

“You don’t remember?”  Tahir.  

She sighed, “I remember...I had been taken hostage and Ludis...I was able to get free to warn you about the attack but…”  Her eyes opened wide as the memories came flooding back.  Tears from somewhere in her dehydrated body began to spill down her cheeks as she awkwardly lifted her right hand to touch her forehead.  “It...wasn’t a dream?”  

“No.”  Nafa.  “I’m sorry Kalla.  I didn’t…”

“Who...what did I do?”

“Kalla, you need rest-”

“They’re Lamia.”  She cut him off as she felt the urgency of her final moments surge forward.  She looked up at Tahir, “some of the children.  They had children.  Some are part Lamia.  I tried...I tried to save who I could after I...oh...oh God.”  She cut off with a sob.  

“Kalla,” Tahir took her hand in his while the other wiped away her tears.  “Rest now.  Please?”  

She looked up into his eyes and nodded.  The concern was evident in his ruby eyes, but she couldn’t shake the weight of her actions.  

“Will you stay beside me?” 

He nodded, stroking her hair back as he watched over her.  

***

She could feel the warmth of the sun as the breeze gently played with her hair.  The birds were chirping and could hear the voices of those important to her in the background.  She smiled as she spun like a child, inhaling the sweet scent of summer blossoms.  Slowly she opened her eyes and sighed.  

“Sometimes the nightmare is so awful that dreams are more believable, huh?”

“You’re awake?”

“Tahir…” she moved to sit up as he reached out to help her.  “I really am sorry.”

“We’ve had this conversation so many times in your sleep.  There is nothi--”
“Yes there is; I lost control.  I...I don’t even know what happened to me.”

“Silly girl,” he grinned and ruffled her hair, “how do you expect to control something you didn’t even realize was inside of you?”

“What?  But I…”  

“And what are you over-analyzing now?”

“Oh, I uh…”  she sighed at his chuckle.  

“Besides,” he touched her cheek gently so she would look up, “you came back to us.”  To me.  Even if you don’t feel the same, I am grateful. 

Despite herself, she blushed and looked away.  The door opened then as Naofalas entered with a tray laden with simple foods: rice, water, bread, and milk.  

“I thought you might be waking up today.”  Nafa smiled brightly at her.  

“What about the others?  Our soldiers and...from the city….?”

“Most are doing very well.  Apparently the fiery rain did cause many casualties, but there was also what the survivors described as sunshine that healed and protected many of them.  Without that, everyone would have died.  That was also you, wasn’t it?  Tahir and his men cannot use that kind of magic, nor can the Svartálfar or Lamia.”  

 She looked down, twisting the sheets in her bandaged hands.  “I..it shouldn’t have come to that, though.”

“Oi!  What did I just say?  You can’t control what you don’t know is inside of you!  That makes no sense!  And you were under extreme duress.  When you snapped, the memories inside you were released into the space around you.  I saw it all.”

“But that…” she looked at him, horrified as tears began to leak from her eyes.

“Tahir,” he sighed, “I’m not sure that is going to help your case any.”

“She needs to understand, Nafa.  No one could have just carried the weight of those images and been unaffected regardless of strength or experience.”

“Even so, to throw that on her within minutes of her being fully coherent for the first time in two weeks isn’t exactly a warm ‘welcome back’ now is it?” 

“Fine then.” He waved his hand dismissively.

“No, I” she hesitated, “I would prefer the truth.”

Naofalas looked at her for a long moment before letting out another exasperated sigh with a slight shake of his head.  

“As you wish.  From what I could gather from the memories, at some point Lamia created hybrids with Svartálfar, probably by pretending to be an elf to start with.  They infiltrated their society somehow.  The queen was definitely Lamia, but as far as dark elves go, even they have morals and weren’t interested in using their own to feed their nefarious magic.  So the Lamia must have decided on the nearest supply of strong life force: the whelps of Skia.  

“You did well to place so many scrying eyes around the city and on people even.  It is actually remarkable how far you have come since came to my court.”  He smiled warmly in memory.  “As to what happened to you...in short, that was your own magic.  Nothing I did would have given you the power to either destroy or heal.  The sigils I placed on you are quite specific.  Moreover,” his eyes narrowed, “the tattoo on your face was not my doing.  Nor Tahir’s.  I have never seen it before--on you or anyone else.

“Going by what Tahir has described, it is a throttle; it restricts your magic perhaps to the point none of us even detected you had more than latent magic common in humans.  It is also likely the reasons your magic rebounded onto you.  Who put it there or why, remains as much a mystery as where your power comes from…  Usually, we are strong with either healing or destruction, but rarely both.  So, I imagine that this was placed on you for protection.  I can only guess at the answers to the questions you may have, for I likely have the same questions.  However, what do you remember of your parents?”  

“They...died a long time ago.” 

"Is there anything out of the ordinary that stands out?  Anything that might help us understand that tattoo?" 

She shivered at the memory.  “I do remember a voice although I wasn't sure what it was saying at the time.  It is a hazy memory, but it is the only memory that...fits.  I can’t remember all of it, but it went something like this:

“O caomhnóir an domhain

Fill ar ais chugainn go dtí an tráth sin

Treoraíonn Mórrígan sinn abhaile”

“Hmm, this complicates things.  You may not remember the entire incantation, but what you are saying is a way to open a gate between one realm and another.”

“What?”

“More specifically, a faery circle.  But I have never known the faeries to wield so much power in fire.  They are powerful, but their magic is usually born of nature, not other elements.”

“Do you remember anything else?”

She scowled in concentration, “it doesn’t make sense.”

“What doesn’t?” 

“There was fire beside me, but it was alive and it didn’t burn.”

“Well, it was a long time ago and you have been through a lot.  Perhaps that is your mind’s way of telling you to rest.”

Naofalas stood up and walked to the window.  Tahir turned back to Kalla and ran his fingers through her hair away from her forehead.  She didn’t realize how tense she was until she began to relax and smiled softly.  He continued as she laid down and began to doze in the warm summer afternoon, just like that day a lifetime ago.  

If only this moment could last.  Him, here, like this I can pretend it’s real and he’s not just caring for an injured comrade.  Still, even if it’s just as a friend or a colleague, I just want to be near him.  

***

“A faery?  Nafa, do you think it’s possible?”

“At this rate anything is possible.  But it doesn’t add up with the fire.  There are a few creatures in this realm that can wield fire like that and a few in the Angelic Realm, but it is even less likely that someone from the Angelic Realm would be involved.”

“True, but surely that tattoo was placed by one of her parents.  Perhaps because they couldn’t stay with her?”

“Hmmm.  It is possible.  For now...let’s not mention this memory at the hearing.  I don’t want to overcomplicate things, at least not until we know more.”

“Agreed.  I will speak to her about it.” 

A young woman with long black hair wandered from the path as her flowing dress caught on twigs and bramble here and there.  She lifted a toddler over the mess at the forest’s edge before walking deeper into the woods.  She gripped the child’s hand firmly leading the way between the trees and other flora.  She remembered as a child, her mother telling her stories of an old village that used to live at the edge of this forest and the old medicine woman who spent her days among the trees.  She offered the child a reassuring smile, “We’ll be safe here.”  The woman nodded to herself in affirmation, and then she saw it.  There was a small run-down cottage in the clearing, forgotten by all save for the forest animals and bugs that occasionally came to visit.  The last rays of the sunset cast a blood red shadow over the dilapidated building.  She turned towards the small child at her side.   “Come.  Let’s make this our new home.”

The child looked at it with sparkling eyes, seeing a secret hideout and a mystical witch’s shop rather than a worn-out cottage.  With an enthusiastic nod, the child answered: “Yes!”

***

“Suri!  It’s time for dinner!  Suri?”  she paused on the step looking around, but the child was nowhere to be seen.  

She made a circle around the small home, eyes scanning the edge of the forest.  “Suri?”  She closed her eyes and just listened.  After a moment, she set off towards the East and the faint muffled voices on the wind.  The voices became stronger the further East she went and soon she was running towards them.  Finally, she reached a dense copse of trees, separated from the rest of the woods, and froze.  There was a dark figure looming over the child, laughing menacingly.

“Suri!”  She nearly stomped towards them.  “You know you aren’t supposed to go out this far!  You had me worried!”  

The young child turned his adoring gaze away from the shadowy presence and looked at his mother. “I’m sowwy.  I jus’ wanna to pway.”  

“I know,” the woman sighed as she placed a hand on the child’s head.  “But it is dangerous to go so far away right now.  Please don’t encourage him,” she glanced at the shadow before turning back to Suri.  “One day, when you are a little older, we can go on adventures away from home, but right now we need to stay close to home.  Do you understand?”

The child nodded.

“It’s okay, Suri.  You aren’t in trouble,” she offered a reassuring smile, “but it is time to eat so we should go back.”

At that, the child’s eyes lit up.  “Food!  YAY!  I wove mama’s food!  I’m sowwy, I have to go now.”  Suri offered a bow in parting from the creature.  “But we can pway again later!”  

With a jump and a wave, the child ran towards the woman and back to the safety of their home.  The shadow waved, watching as they disappeared into the foliage.  After a long moment, it dissipated into the darkness.

***

Suri leaned against the wall, just out of sight, listening.  The faint scent of chamomile and peppermint was in the air.  Lucien was stopping by less and less, often in the middle of the night.  He not fight with mama, but they no agwee.  Suri sighed and slid down the wall to the ground.  Is it why Papa left?  But, when Papa left, they no fight; he held Mama and Mama cwied and then he told me goodbye.  Papa said had to leave, but Lucien wants us go with him.  But how will Papa know where we go?  Suri’s eyes closed with another sigh.  I miss Papa.

A tall man stood beside the open window in the kitchen, speaking softly but insistently.  A young woman stood before the hearth, coaxing flames back to life as they heated the kettle.  Both were strikingly beautiful, but she had an exotic look about her where he had strength.  Her delicate fingers gathered the tea leaves in the muslin before tossing them in the kettle.  Strands of her fine dark hair shimmered in the moonlight as she listened to her visitor.  It looked to be another long night ahead of her.

“I would feel better if you came back to the Magical Realm with me.  I would be able to protect both of you.”  He placed his hand gently on her shoulder, but she didn’t turn around.  

“No, I’m not uprooting Suri again.  Besides, the Angelic Realm won’t think to look here, and it will help suppress his magic.”

“That isn’t a good thing if you’re attacked.  Or if you are trying to teach him.”

“He’s still too young to learn, and don’t you go getting any strange ideas!”  She turned to poke him with a spoon.

“Are you sure he is too young?”  he grinned, “Alright, alright.  But Araja, what if they do come for you here?”

“Well,” she turned to hug him, resting her head a moment against his chest before looking up into his blue eyes, “I am sure that as my big brother you would be here in an instant.”

“What if it’s--”

“It won’t be.”

“But he hasn’t returned.  He could give your location to them if he is infected.

“He isn’t, and he won’t.”  She pushed him back with a glare.

“And what if you’re wrong?  What if he attacks?”

She froze for a moment before shaking her doubts away.  “You know why he hasn’t returned as well as I do.  He’ll be here if we truly need him.”

“You have too much faith in the light.”

She turned to watch as he approached the window, gathering shadows around his fading form before evaporating like a whiff of smoke.  “And you have too little, brother.”

***

Home is a place where you are safe, protected.  Home is a place of peace and joy.   Home is a place of laughing conversations and comforting embraces.  But despite the curtains slowly flowing, obscuring twinkling stars, this peaceful moonlit night was shattered by a scream and roar of flames.  

A confused Suri shivered and froze.  After what seemed like hours, he slid out of bed as slowly and quietly as he could and opened the door to his room.  He paused before continuing down the hall as the cries grew louder.

“...you brought here!”

“Burn you witch!”

“Heathen!”

“Please, I meant no harm!  We never--”  

Suri jumped at the heavy thud and squeezed his eyes shut.  Around him the cacophony of voices continued.  

“More fire!  Burn it; burn it all down!”  

He clenched his shaking fist and took a steadying breath before he peeked around the corner into the main living area.   His mother’s crumpled form was motionless on the floor as several villagers were thrusting torches into the roof and anywhere else flammable and destroying everything they could find. 

Why this happen?  I was tree and I now I'm five.  No wone saw us.  Why...why?  A loud crash of a particular vase seemed to transfix Suri's gaze as the water and wildflowers bounced violently and shattered glass flew everywhere.  

“Suri,” she laughed.  “Come on, we need to gather more straw, or we will be wet the next time it rains.”

“Dance, mama, dance!”

“We can dance more later.”

The gentle wind caressed her face as she watched the child twirl and laugh, completely free. 

“Here, this looks like it has a lot of dried grass.”

“Ohh!  Pwetty!”

Suri had squatted down to look at wildflowers stirring in the breeze.  She smiled.

“These flows grow in the wild as they please,” she knelt beside him, “which is why they are all different.”

“Bwue and pink and white!”

“Yup, would you like to take some home?  They would look nice on our table at dinner, don’t you think?”

“YES!”  

Walking back, she looked down to see Suri proudly carrying his flowers, careful not to crush them.  

The pain in his throat brought him partially back, but the tears and pained gasp he made seemed like they belonged to another.  Evewything was okay...this not make sense.  Confused, he moved into the room towards the chaos quietly asking, “Why?”  

“Bring in more there!  Leave no corner of this vile place untouched!”

“Why?”

“Haha!  Nothing like fire to cleanse the den of a demon--Hey, who’s that?”

“Why?”

“That bitch has a kid?  Destroy the wretched thing!”

“Why?”

“Kill it!”

“Why?”

Ignoring his question, two large men rushed towards him.  One flashed a serrated blade with a wicked grin and the other held a burning torch.  As the first reached out, instinct took over.

“STOP!” he closed his eyes tightly as his scream lasted until his voice was raw.  The world around him seemed to shake and there was an explosion of sound and screams and roaring heat as the fire enveloped the cottage in earnest.  And then…silence.

He gasped for air as he felt familiar arms around him. 

“Suri, shh.  It’s okay now, Suri.”

The child shook his head.

“It is,” her voice was shaky and sad.  “I-I need you to do something for me.  Make the sky cry, Suri.  Do you remember how to do that?”

He nodded, as tears slid down his cheeks.  “Papa…”  He clung to her, shaking, and began to wail.  

“It’s okay Suri.”  She cradled his head with one hand and kept the other wrapped tightly around her son.   “The rain will wash it away.  Remember that adventure I told you about?  Let’s start it tomorrow, okay?”

The boy nodded and turned his head towards the sky, willing the gentle rain to wash this nightmare away.  Slowly he opened his eyes…

She looked down at the small boy who, even in sleep, refused to let go.  It had been two days, but they couldn't stay here.  They needed to get far away before, before...  Her tears flowed like her memories of the past.

“Haha, you minx!  Give it back!”

“Try to take it from me,” she giggled.

Laughing he chased her, jumping on and over the bed as she ran around the small room as the last rays of sunlight shone through the curtains.  

“Finally!”   He braced himself as he fell to the bed with her in his arms, carefully landing beside her.

“No fair!”

“Of course it’s fair!  I caught you!”

“Oh? So you caught me,” she wrapped her arms around his waist and pulled herself closer, “what do you plan to do with me then?”

“Mmm, I’m sure I can think of something.”  He touched his nose to hers with a wink.  

Her vision of fine white hair blurred.  She swallowed and blinked the memories away.

“Suri?  Suri, it’s time to get up now.”

“Huh?” 

He sat up, rubbing his viridescent eyes.  His hair hung loosely to his jawline like a curtain of white powdery snow.  

“Today is the day we are going on an adventure, Suri.  Are you ready?”

“YES!” 

He jumped up trying to pull her with him by the hand. 

“An advenchuw, an advenchuw, just like in the stowies, an advenchuw!”

She couldn’t help but smile. 

“...w-wait.  Which way do we go for advenchuws?”

“We can go whichever direction you like, love.  Where does your heart tell you to go?”

He blinked, then took a deep breath giving his features far more seriousness than a child should have before exclaiming, “My heawt says that way!”

“Then,” she stifled her amusement, “we shall head North.”

***

“Stay behind me!”

“Who awe they?  What, what do they--”

“Do as I say.”

The child obeyed, holding onto his mother’s skirts as she confronted her opponents.  

“What do you want?”

“Give us the child.”

“Return to whatever part of the Abyss you escaped from and leave us alone!”

“Give it to us peacefully and no harm--”

“Like hell I will!”

“The child is coming with us.”

Suri’s hand tightened, pulling on his mother’s clothes as she reached a hand to place it on his head.  The shadow of the first man began to approach them, towering over his mother.  

“He is nawt nice.  Youw shadow huwts.”  

The shadow paused, before shaking with laughter.  “There is nothing to fear unless you keep darkness in your heart.  We are here to save you from that darkness.”

Suri frowned, hiding behind his mother so that only one eye was peeking out.  Suddenly his mother spun around grasping his shoulders as the shadow continued to approach, but she ignored his panicked attempts to tell her.

“Mo-”

“Listen to me.  You are my child, and nothing will ever change that.  You must stay safe.  We thought you would be safe here; I’m sorry Suri.  One day your father will find you and explain but for now I must send you somewhere safe.”   She looked down for a brief moment.  The shadow was almost to her.  “Tell him my name, you remember it don’t you?” 
“Th-the shad--”

“Do you?  Remember my name?”

He froze for a moment and nodded.  Tears began to slide down his face as he reached out to her.  She leaned forward and hugged him tightly.  

“Good.  I love you so much, Suri,” she whispered.  “Now go and tell him I sent you.  He will understand.”

“Mama…”

She extended arm, opening her hand just as the shadow reached her.  With a harsh blast of purple energy, he flew backwards, and everything blurred for a moment.  He felt weightless as he slipped through realms until his lungs began fighting for oxygen again.  With a gasp, the cool moist air hit him as his body struck a firm but squishy ground.  Confused and shaken, he looked around.  

He was in a forest beside old tree roots covered in a deep green moss.  Quickly his eyes darted to the sky but whatever force had sent him there was gone now.  “Mama…”

“Well, what do we have here?”

Suri curled into himself, bracing to run.

“Oi, there’s no need for that lad.  I have no intention of hurtin’ ye.”  

Suri made no move to relax, but he was listening.  

“What’s ye name then lad?”  

“...”

“I have ta call ye somethin’,” he sighed.  “What would ye have me call ye?”

“Who awe you!?”  came a shaky but demanding voice.  

“I beg your pardon, lad, I haven’t introduced myself!  My name is Dian, King of the Faeries--welcome to my home!”

Suri’s eyes widened in recognition of the name. 

“I need ya ta talk ta me so I can help ya, wee one.  You fell from the sky and landed in me house, so would ye mind tellin’ me ye name?”

“Now go and tell him I sent you.”  The child rubbed tears away with the ball of his hand.  “Sur…” he swallowed, “Suri.  I’m Suri.  Mama is…”