Love Bleeds in War excerpt

She was trapped. Enemy troops were moving into the field from the tree line. She could see the red and yellow trim of their dark green uniforms and hear their footsteps as branches broke under their feet. What a fool she was to believe she could get away with a walk that afternoon. She just had hope for something different, more than the walls she had been confined to. It had paid off. Her hopes turned away, things were going to change.

She crouched down in the bushes as the troops drew near. She closed her eyes and prayed that the thin branches and tiny yellow and green leaves were enough to shield her from detection. The footsteps became so loud that she found herself wishing they would pass quickly and return never again. She waited, prayed, wished, and then, there came an eerie silence.

The quiet was broken by the sound of her own voice screaming as she was wretched free of her hiding place. Hands wrapped around her arms so tightly it was certain they would be bruised as she struggled to pull free. The two green clad soldiers did not even flinch as they dragged her out into the open.

“Sir, we found this one spying on us from the bushes.” The soldier stated as he threw her to the ground before him.

Her hands bled from scraping against the hard soil as she landed at the soldiers feet. Her soft blue dress was covered in the dusty earth and was torn from her ankle up to her thigh. Yet, she forced herself to gaze upward at the one the soldier had called ‘sir’ as he glared back down at her.

“Who are you?” The man asked loudly.

“I am no one.” She replied softly as she stared at the scar on the bitter man’s cheek.

His polished black boot slammed into her ribcage taking her breath away. As she rolled over onto her back with a gasp, her left hand reached out and cradled her throbbing side. She tried to focus on the blue sky and not the pain or the faces of the men hovering above her.

“I asked you a question woman!” The man shouted as he knelt down beside her.

“Where are your comrades?” He asked as his hand pressed down on her chest.

“There are none.” She wheezed.

“I do not believe you.” He replied.

There was something evil about his smile. She couldn’t stop herself from shivering. His hand slowly moved up her chest to wrap around her pale throat. As he squeezed the breath from her his grin did not fade. Her hands came up, and her eyes went wide. As she struggled for air she clawed at his hand until it bled.

“I will not ask you again. There was a reason you were out here today. If you do not wish to tell me, then you can meet the man that you will find to be far worse than me.” He released his hold on her.

She rolled over on her side as she gasped, breathing in as much air as her lungs would take.

“Escort her back to base camp and let the corporal decide what to do with her.” The man said as he turned away.

“Yes sir,” The two men replied as they snapped to attention.

That was the last thing she was permitted to see. The one called ‘sir’ turned back quite suddenly and with a well placed kick to her temple, rendered her unconscious. As her hands and feet were bound the soldier received his final orders.

“When you are finished with her join up with the second team and meet up with us at the designated position.”

“Yes sir.” The soldier saluted before he picked the woman up and threw her over his shoulder.

The main force continued forward leaving the soldier to turn back with the woman. He trudged back through the harsh brush carrying the hundred extra pounds of weight. He had barely broken a sweat when he emerged from the thicket near the country line. He passed quickly through the farm land and entered the main encampment. He carried the woman past the make shift barracks toward the corporals tent and then placed her on the ground as he waited to gain entry. Once his presence was announced the corporal met him outside.

“Corporal, sir.” The soldier saluted.

“Soldier, report.” The corporal demanded.

“This woman was found in the woods as we passed through, sir. She refused to speak in the field so I was dispatched to return her here for questioning.” The man replied.

“I’ll take her in from here soldier report back to the barracks. Another team leaves for capitol city in an hour.” The corporal stated.

“Yes sir.” The soldier saluted and marched quickly away.

“Bring her,” The corporal ordered his personal guard, as he marched off toward the stables.

The soldier lifted the woman up in his arms and carried her behind the corporal as the man continued to bark out orders. They weaved through the tents until they came out by the fence that housed the horses.

“Prepare my horse quickly.” The corporal shouted at the boy.

As the boy excused himself to prepare the corporal’s horse, he busied himself with preparations. He covered his hands with his leather riding gloves before turning back and covering the woman’s head with a black cloth. Once his horse was beside him, he climbed up in the saddle and motioned that he was ready for the woman. She was hoisted up by the soldier that had carried her, and placed across the corporal’s lap.

The corporal then spurred his horse on a slow walk up the road toward the capital city. The rolling hills and farmland eventually gave way to the brick and mortar buildings of the outskirts of the city. He continued past the shops and the houses as he made his way deep into the heart of the city. It took him a little longer than an hour, but at last the prisoner was delivered to the dungeons below the large residence that housed the royal family of Kohn.

“This one was captured spying on our scout patrol this morning. See what you can get out of her.” The corporal said as he threw her to the floor.

“Of course, sir,” The man replied.

Satisfied that his duty was over, the corporal exited quickly leaving her in their capable hands.

“Let’s get you settled shall we?” The man chuckled to himself.

He pulled the hood free from her face and nearly gasped aloud.

“You’re a lovely one. Going to be such a shame if you choose not to talk.” He smiled, grabbed her by her long red hair, and dragged her unconscious body across the damp stone floor.

He sat her down in the metal chair in the center of the room. It was bolted securely to the floor. He tied her wrists to the chair arms and her ankles to the chair legs. Once he was certain she wasn’t going anywhere, he picked up a bucket of cold water then proceeded to dump it over her head.

“Time to wake up deary.” He said as she choked and gasped for air.

Her hazel eyes went wide and she began to struggle against the restraints.

“Who are you?” She demanded. “Where am I?”

“I’m the one that asks the questions around here.” The man growled as he back handed her across the cheek.

She winced as the sting settled in but continued to glare at him defiantly.

“Now, we can do this the nice way or the painful way. But I promise you, you will speak to me eventually.” The man said as he moved around behind her.

He grabbed her by the hair, pulling it so harshly that she was forced to tilt her head back and look at the man.

“Tell me your name.” He said completely calm.

“I am no one.” She replied just as calmly.

“I find that hard to believe. But, let’s try another question.” He said releasing his grip on her hair.

“Why were you spying on our troops? Who do you report back to?” He asked as he returned to look in her eyes.

“That’s two questions.” She smirked. He struck her across the cheek again.

She hissed out in pain and said, “I wasn’t spying. I was hiding. Your troops frightened me.”

“Again, you try to disorientate with your lies. You’re going to make this very difficult for yourself.” The man said as he disappeared into the darkness.

“It is the truth.” She yelled.

“You Cadurans were bred to lie.” He said as he returned with a contraption that looked like a steel reinforced corset.

He strapped it around her ribcage and began twisting the dials on it until it fit snugly around her waist.

“Now, let’s try this again. Who are you?” He asked.

“I am no one.” She replied.

He tightened the dials restricting her ability to breathe just a little more. “Again,” He said.

“I come from a land where a woman’s opinion has no value. So again I say, I am no one.” She replied.

The man shook his head and tightened it further. She could feel her ribs as they began to bend under the pressure. The pain took her breath away.

“I can do this all day if you like. Or you can let go of your pride and answer me.” He stated.

“I have nothing of value to tell you. I am just a girl.” She said with tears in her eyes. “I was out picking wild flowers when your brutes kidnapped me.”

He snickered, shook his head and turned the dial until he could hear her first rib snap. The pain shot through her chest. She gasped for air as her eyes rolled back in their sockets. Then her world went black.

The man sighed as she fainted, “I guess that’s enough for now. Pitiful weak woman.” He disconnected the device and put it away.

The man removed the restraints from her wrists and ankles. He then picked the woman up and dragged her over to the corner of the room. He tossed her into the iron cage and watched as she lay there on the filthy straw. When he was certain she was still unconscious he bolted and locked the cage door before he left the room. He bolted the outside door just in case and then made his way up the stairs to the common room and waited to make his report to the king. Once he was permitted to enter he bowed quickly and waited for the king to speak.

“What news do you have for me today Vaughn?” The king asked rather impatiently.

“I have nothing yet, my king. The woman does have a low threshold for pain so I’m certain with enough of it she will tell us everything.” Vaughn replied.

“Return when you have something.” The king grumbled.

“I shall, my king.” Vaughn replied, stood, and left quite quickly.

Forgotten Realms Series Book 2 "Singularity" excerpt

Chapter 1:

It would be day break soon. With it would come the day full of chores. As was Kira’s life on the farm. She rolled over slid out of bed and shivered. It was a cold fall morning. She dressed quickly, pulling her sweater over her long black hair. It got caught. She cursed and then put her hand over her mouth. If her father woke up before the coffee was ready it would make for a long day.

Kira corrected herself and quickly made her bed. Then she made her way out into the kitchen. She made a quick fire in the stove and set the kettle on to boil as she fetched more wood. It took her slender muscled body only a few minutes to restock the wood pile. She threw another piece of wood on the fire and then made her way out to the hen house to fetch the eggs for breakfast. She nearly cussed again as the rooster pecked at her boots. She thought for sure that she would trip over the stupid bird.

With the eggs secure, Kira gave the rooster a taste of her boot to his tail and then scampered back inside. She put the egg basket on the counter and fetched the bacon out of the ice chest. She stoked the fire and put the cast iron frying pan on to warm up. She fried up the bacon, then the eggs, and set the table. She ate quickly, cleaned up her dishes, and left her father’s plate next to the coffee.

How she managed to slip out without waking him Kira didn’t stop to question. She had too much work to do to dawdle. She made her way out to the barn and hitched up the horse to the cart and took them out into the orchard. Half of the apples looked ready for harvest. For a normal girl it would take weeks to collect from a grove as large as the one belonging to her father.

Kira smiled because she knew that she wasn’t normal. This grove flourished because she nurtured it, breathed life into every branch, every bud, and tended to it out of love. She was magic and she gave it all to the earth because she knew somehow it returned it to her. She walked through the rows of trees with her hands raised above her head. The apples flowed to her, gathering in a cloud above her head. She merrily sang a tune as she continued on her way. No, it wouldn’t take long at all. She smiled to herself as the cart filled up with each pass.

Sephiroth woke up to the wonderful smell of coffee. When he emerged from his room he found that his daughter had left him breakfast. He smiled at her thoughtful nature as he sat down to eat. It wouldn’t be another week and she would be sixteen. He sighed at the thought and cleaned up after himself. If he knew her, she would have the cart full and ready for town before he even got himself on the horse to meet her.

Sephiroth slowly made his way over to the door. Every battle scar he had gotten over the years ached when it got this cold. He muttered curses and slipped into his jacket. He reached into the basket and pulled out his silver handled cane. He gave it a twist and then a tug, sliding it apart to check the condition of the sword inside. Satisfied that it was alright, he put it back together and headed for the barn.

The horse was harnessed, saddled, and tethered to the post. All Sephiroth had to do was hoist himself onto the monsters back. He stuffed his cane in his belt loop, grabbed the saddle horn, and pulled himself up with a groan. He then gave a gentle kick and headed for the orchard at a slow walk.

By the time Sephiroth found the cart it was half loaded with apples. The sun had finally managed to appear in the sky as well. He dismounted and walked the horse toward the cart.

“Kira,” He called out.

“Over here papa.” She replied as she bounced out from the tree line.

Sephiroth huffed as he saw the apples floating behind her. “What did I tell you about that Kira?”

“Oh, like anyone is out here to see it papa.” Kira laughed as the apples floated into the cart.

“That’s beside the point.” He scolded.

“I’m sorry papa. I won’t use my magic in view again.” She pouted.

“Thank you,” He replied. “Are you ready to take these to the market?” He then asked.

“Yes papa.” She replied softly and climbed into the cart.

Sephiroth pulled himself back up in the saddle as Kira turned the cart around. They made their way up the orchard path and onto the main road leading north to Avalon. They made good time and had the horses tethered in front of the castle as the sun neared the high point of the day.

“You go on ahead and take the queen her basket. I’ll be there in a minute.” Sephiroth instructed as he eased off his horse.

“Ok papa.” Kira replied and bounced away.

Kira made her way up the hall and into the throne room. She carried the overflowing basket in front of her. The room was empty, all for the oversized glass prism in the center of it. She curiously made her way over to it and ran her hand across the smooth surface. Her finger snagged on something and she let out a hiss as blood welled up to the surface. She wiped her finger dry on her pants and turned away as she heard footsteps approach.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Sephira hissed. “Stay away from there.”

“I’m sorry,” Kira said as she slowly backed away. “I didn’t mean anything by it.”

“You had better be sorry. You have no idea what could be unleashed.” Sephira snapped.

“Kira,” Sephiroth boomed.

“Papa,” She replied startled.

“Take the produce down to the market.” He replied as he took the basket from her hands.

“Yes papa.” She bowed quickly and scampered away while she had the opportunity.

Sephiroth looked at his wife Sephira and was filled with sadness. Once upon a time she had been a beautiful woman, full of life, and spirited to a fault. Now she was broken, fragile, and fading away. Being the keeper of the great betrayer Domascus had taken her love of life away, and with it, all hope of a future with her in it.

“You shouldn’t be so hard on the girl.” He scolded as he put his arms around her.

“You’re right my love. Will you apologize for me?” She asked with a heavy sigh.

“I will,” He kissed her forehead. “Are you ready to tell her the truth?” He asked.

“She looks just like you.” She replied avoiding his question.

“She’s growing up, going to be sixteen soon.” He replied.

“Has it been that long?” She asked genuinely surprised.

“Yes, it really has. Just like every year, here are your apples.” He smiled and handed her the basket.

“Your daughter picked them herself this year. She has developed quite the collection of magical abilities.” Sephiroth replied.

“So it would seem.” She smiled sadly. “I love you. Go be with your daughter.” She kissed him gently.

“I love you.” He replied and kissed her back tenderly.

“Go on, out with you.” She smiled and nudged him toward the door.

Sephiroth watched Sephira for a moment longer and then walked away. She didn’t want him or Kira anywhere near the castle. She had been waiting sixteen years for this day. She knew it was finally upon her the moment she laid eyes on her daughter. Today was the day she was going to die.

Sephira walked over to the glass prison that held Domascus and looked it over with a defeated sigh. As she circled it for the second time, still nothing happened. She began to wonder if perhaps she could have been wrong. Then all at once it shattered. She didn’t even have time to shield her face. In that instant, he was upon her piercing her flesh with a broken shard. He eased her to the floor with a wicked grin.

“I told you I would find a way.” Domascus said.

Sephira’s eyes closed as her blood spilled out onto the floor. As she breathed her last breath Domascus squealed with glee and vanished into nothing.

Chapter 2:

By the time Sephiroth found his daughter Kira at the market she had managed to have the entire cart sold. She was cleaning up and ready to go as he stopped before her.

“Well, look at that.” He smiled.

“Hello papa.” She smiled. “How did it go? Was the queen really mad?” She asked.

“She was fine. Wanted me to tell you she was sorry for snapping at you like that.” He replied.

“Oh, ok. How’d she get so mean?” She asked curiously.

“It’s a long story, for another time perhaps. Let’s go home.” He chuckled.

“Alright papa.” She replied and climbed up into the cart.

Sephiroth and Kira rode home in silence. He appreciated her for that. She never doubted or questioned him, just accepted his words and easily let it drift away. He knew the hell he would be in for when he was finally able to tell her the truth. If he had his way he would have already told her. But for several years now, his wife had begged him to remain silent. So, he did as she requested. His thoughts were soon interrupted by distant shouts.

“Whoa,” He spoke and turned his horse around to look.

Two guards in full armor raced toward them shouting, “Wait my king! The queen has fallen.”

Sephiroth’s heart leapt into his throat, “Drop the cart now Kira.”

“Papa?” She asked confused as the men stopped before them.

“Drop the cart and get on the horse. Just leave it.” He ordered.

She jumped from the cart to do as he spoke while he addressed the guards.

“What happened?” Sephiroth barked.

“Domascus escaped, he murdered the queen and then disappeared.” The guard replied.

“Shit,” He replied surprising Kira. She had never heard him cuss aloud before.

“Kira, ride hard and ride fast. Do not stop until we are back at the castle.” Sephiroth spoke calmly.

Kira nodded her response as he added, “It’s time to tell you everything.”

Kira watched Sephiroth spur his horse so hard she feared that he would be thrown to the ground. Instead, it responded and raced forward. She nudged hers and rode as fast as she could to keep up. The guards stayed behind them doing their jobs to protect the two of them the best they could on horseback. It didn’t take them long and they were back at the castle. He flung himself out of the saddle and raced up the steps. She couldn’t remember seeing him move that fast ever as she struggled to keep up.

“Oh my beloved.” He wept as he knelt beside her body on the broken glass.

“King Sephiroth,” A man said with a bow. “Is there anything I can do for you?”

“Clear the room let me and my daughter mourn.” He replied as Kira watched on.

“Yes my king.” The man bowed and closed everyone out of the room.

“She was my mother.” Kira replied shocked.

“We’ll discuss that later. There’s something you need to do first.”

Kira bit her lip in anger and replied, “Yes papa.”

“You’re the queen now my daughter. As the pagan queen before you it is your duty to return your mother to the earth.” He replied.

“I understand.” She said.

“You must do so publically using your power.” He added.

“But papa, you said never to do that!” She exclaimed.

“It doesn’t matter now.” He replied looking her in the eyes. “Everything is going to change and it’s going to be fast. I’m so sorry. We tried to protect you from this.” He wept.

She couldn’t even be angry anymore. The sadness that poured from her father made her entire body ache along with his. As she raised her hands the blood faded away from Sephira’s body. The castle began to shake then all at once the windows shattered bringing with it a massive wind that chilled Sephiroth to the bone. There was so much power within her that he vowed then and there to have her taught to never depend on it.

“It is ready.” Kira said ready to collapse.

“Thank you,” Sephiroth replied as he lifted Sephira’s body in his arms.

As Sephiroth carried her out into the court yard he began to understand what Kira had meant. The commotion that the power had caused at the castle had gathered the crowd. They stared in awe at the pyre made from the vines of the earth itself. Sephiroth placed Sephira’s body on top of the platform and took a step back.

“The queen is dead, long live the queen.” He spoke sadly.

“Long live the queen.” The crowd muttered through the shock.

As Kira stepped forward the blue sky faded away. She raised her arms and clapped her hands. The thunder replied and spit forth the lightening. It struck the pyre sending forth the sparks that quickly exploded into flames. The wind gusts fueled it and all too quickly Sephira was consumed turning to ash and scattered by the breeze. The blue sky returned and she was face to face with the people of Avalon. They bowed accepting her as their queen. The last thing she remembered was looking at her father, and then, she fainted.

Forgotten Realms Series Book 1 "Duality" excerpt

The gentle words and melody floated through the room like a calming wind. The peaceful tunes did little to stir Stephanie from her slumber. It wasn’t until the thirty minute block of nonstop country finished that she finally awakened from her peaceful sleep. As the weather report promised a high of seventy degrees she reached over and slapped the snooze button. The large red digital numbers flashed 9:05 am as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

“Shit.” She cursed as the time finally registered to her still groggy mind.

“Looks like I won’t be making it to class today.” She muttered as she threw the large comforter away from her body and made way to the shower.

It was nearing the end of the semester at the college. With finals due in two weeks, most of Stephanie's time was spent studying in class with her lab partner, or in the library working on her thesis paper. The last four years had seemed to drag on endlessly for her. But at long last, just around the corner, laid her grand achievement for the time spent; a Bachelors of Science degree with a major in religious studies.

With the shower now running cold, Stephanie stepped forth into the fog filled room and towel dried her long sandy blonde hair. With the edge of the towel, she wiped the fog off the mirror, and then surveyed the dark circles forming under her eyes before making her way out of the bathroom. She stepped into an old pair of jeans, threw on a sweater over her wet hair, and pulled on her sneakers. She thought against making coffee, bypassing the coffee pot completely.

“Better to not waste a day of work.” She said as she picked up her book bag and made her way out the door.

Stephanie pulled the car into a parking lot across from the campus. She coasted the car to a stop in a space and cut off the engine. It was a little walk to the college library, but she didn’t feel like wasting time circling the campus lot looking for a closer place, knowing that she wouldn’t find one. She stuffed her keys in her pocket, slung the back pack over her shoulder, and trudged across the grass toward the library on campus.

The library wasn’t as crowded as Stephanie had anticipated it would be. It was easy for her to find an empty table near the religious reference section. She threw her back pack on the solid oak table top. It landed with a loud echoing thud that seemed to travel the length of the building. Paying no mind to the noisy interruption, she made her way through the endless rows of books trying to recall where she had left off on her previous visit.

After ten minutes of searching and muttering curses under her breath, Stephanie emerged from the rows of books and returned to the table with the reference volumes she had been searching for. They hit the table next to her back pack in a cloud of dust and more echoes. Somewhere from across the room floated the hiss of the annoyed librarian.

Shhhhhh…!

Stephanie rolled her eyes and pulled out her notebook. She wrote down the volume number, edition, and author information, then where she found the book in the library, just in case she needed to re-read it later. She then turned her attention to scanning the old worn out pages for anything that held weight in her current work.

Stephanie had spent the last four years chasing the theory that heaven and hell existed beyond the veil of what was commonly referred to as reality. If they existed, perhaps other places existed as well, and every religion that had their own views could possibly be just as right as another. The thought sent chills down her spine to think that once and for all she could prove that no one was wrong and perhaps then everyone would find a way to be at peace.

The hours passed by as Stephanie continued her research. The occasional footstep passing in the main aisle took momentary attention from her studies as she looked up to see who passed by. For the most part, the library remained quiet. She made notes, cross referenced pages, and calculated various theories in her mind as she failed to notice the passing time.

It wasn’t a spectacular day by any means. Stephanie rubbed her tired eyes at least satisfied by the productivity of the day. For a moment her mind wandered. Then, there it was.

The sharp pain in Stephanie’s temples nearly knocked her from her chair in agony. The flash of a scene caught her off guard, making her unaware that she had cried out in surprise. The image appeared again taking mere seconds to leave her vision. The pain was so intense she could have vomited, and then wept, as it continued to throb to the rhythm of the pulsing memory in her mind.

Stephanie struggled through the pain. Another flash came and finally her mind registered the picture of a dimly lit circular room. Torches flickered as the picture faded again. When it reappeared she stood in the center of the room, forcing herself to look around. The numbing pain intensified again threatening to send her into darkness. She struggled, clawed at nothing, fighting for air, fighting the air itself, until all at once it was over.

“Are you alright?” A calm male voice asked concerned.

Stephanie looked around stunned. Her books were still on the table unmoved. She looked up and noticed that a man sat diagonally from her at the table. How long he had been there, she had no idea of knowing. He too had books cast out before him and a note pad. So she gathered he was a student of some degree. None the less, he had indeed been there long enough to witness her brief episode.

“I think I’ve been working too hard, beginning to get a migraine.” She chuckled in embarrassment.

“I have a cure for that.” The man smiled reaching into his bag.

It took but a few seconds before the man slid a bottle across the table to Stephanie.

“You carry aspirin?” She asked curiously.

“It comes in handy. Never know when or where I’ll wake up with a hangover.” He grinned sheepishly.

“Sure came in handy today.” She popped a few and slid the bottle back. “Thank you.”

“Quite welcome.” He dropped the bottle in his bag then ran his fingers through his short brown hair.

“I’m Dominic.” He offered.

“Stephanie,” She replied as they shook hands across the table.

“I’m new here. I just transferred my major to this college, trying to play catch up now.”

Dear god, he’s charming… she thought as she looked him over. From his broad smile, to his dancing blue eyes, she could definitely find herself easily enchanted by him.

“You transferred at the end of the semester?” She replied slightly shocked.

“I go four semesters a year. I’m trying to cram a four year degree into two years.”

Smart too… she admired, silently impressed.

“What are you working on that has you so stressed?” He asked changing the subject.

“It’s my thesis on proving the existence of other plains of being, for my religious major.”

“Really, that’s absolutely fascinating!” He exclaimed. “I’ve heard tales, and I have my beliefs, but to meet someone that actually wants to prove it is awesome.” He chattered excitedly.

“Well, thanks.” She replied checking her watch.

“Maybe you could tell me about it some time.” He continued not noticing her actions.

“Shit,” She muttered. “I’m sorry Dominic. I’m going to be late to class if I don’t rush off now.” She packed up her things in a hurry.

“Another time then, perhaps?” He smiled.

“Definitely, see you around.”

Stephanie threw her bag over her shoulder and rushed away. She failed to see that behind her, Dominic watched her every move until she was out of his line of sight. With a proud smile, he too repacked his back pack, and then headed out into the mid day sun.

“Seventy degrees my ass.” Dominic shivered as he entered into the bright spring afternoon.

He cursed himself for believing the weather report. It was closer to fifty degrees as he silently scolded himself for not bringing a sweater.

Dominic watched as students passed by. He huddled in the door of the library a moment longer before deciding he’d be warmer if he just started walking. The library was the center of campus so it took him some time to reach the edge of it. It wasn’t far from there that he would find his studio apartment above the local Laundromat. He fired up his motorcycle when he reached the parking lot and sped hastily up the few blocks to his home.

Students came and went from the Laundromat often so Dominic knew it would be a good place to start his search. It was all too easy for him to convince the school board to allow him access to the campus. He might not be a college student but his research was just as important. A small lie about it would prove to be harmless in the end.

After searching through six out of the seven realms, Dominic could only come to two possible conclusions. The one he was searching for had either kept on the move and he missed her that way, or she had fled into the non-magical realm of earth.  The second seemed far more plausible due to the difficulty of tracking magical beings in a place that had no measure for such things.

So here Dominic was, staring out the window to the busy street below. It had taken twenty years of his near thirty on earth just to search while training him not to relinquish his true nature to the restraints of a human mind. It was a slow and painful process but the success was worth it, and now he was certain. He had found the missing Princess after all.

I just hope there’s still time to get through to her… he thought as the afternoon faded away.

Stephanie barely slid into her seat as the professor began the day’s lecture. He shot his late student a dirty look as she waved off a quick apology. He continued the lecture as she sank down lower in her chair silently. The hour droned on endlessly as she and her classmates were reminded of the upcoming final exams.

At the end of the hour long lecture Stephanie made quick work of exiting the building before she found herself stuck in another lengthy lecture about tardiness. In her rushed exit she failed to notice the confused looking man that had stopped directly in her path. It was too late to stop as she collided with him sending both their books scattering to the grass.

“I am so sorry.” She apologized as they both hit the ground to gather their things.

“It was my fault. I have no idea where I’m going.” He replied as his eyes met hers briefly.

Damn… she thought as her breath caught in her throat.

“I’m new.” He continued as they stood back up.

“You’re the second new student I’ve met today.” She smiled as she rocked back on her heels and extended her hand. “I’m Stephanie.”

“Well, that’s ironic. I’m Steffan.” He replied with a smile of his own.

“Not every day I run into someone with such a similar name.” She replied.

“It’s not common these days.” He replied as the wind blew his long black hair into tangles.

“Could you point me in the direction of the office?” He asked shyly.

“Straight up this path. It’s the second building past the library.” She said. “You can’t miss it.”

“Thanks.” He said. “Maybe I’ll see you around.”

“Yeah, maybe.” She replied with a smile even though he couldn’t hear her. He was already gone.

The clock in the car reminded Stephanie about the reason why she was so hungry. It was already after four and she had skipped her morning coffee along with her morning class. She had the radio blaring country music as she pulled into the drive thru of the fast food restaurant. It was on the way home and made it far more convenient than fighting with the cramped and cluttered apartment kitchen. She turned the radio down as she placed her order and thought quietly to herself.

Why the hell not? What are a few extra pounds amongst friends? She thought as the lady passed her the bag and soda.

Stephanie was by no means over weight. In fact, her mother had always complained she was far too skinny. A once a week trip to the gym kept her toned and fit through her fast food diet. She pulled out of the parking lot, turned right at the Laundromat and drove the three blocks to her one bedroom apartment.

As Stephanie unlocked the front door she was reminded that she should go to do laundry in the next few days. Her apartment had become cluttered with dirty laundry and she had been running on the minimum all week already. She sat down on the stool, cleared off a spot on the counter and munched her spicy chicken sandwich in silence. She then took the drink and fries to the couch and picked at it while channel surfing the basic cable channels she managed to pay for.

Stephanie was by no means broke either. Her eccentric Great Aunt on her father’s side of the family had amassed quite the fortune when she was younger. She had passed it onto her in her will. The first female child born in two generations, she was first in line for it. When she had turned eighteen her parents signed off on the account and watched her go into the world alone.

A large chunk of it went toward Stephanie’s education at the college. While doing so, she was very cheap about what she spent the additional money on. Most of all, she wanted to make sure that she had enough to relocate and buy a house when she got a stable job. So, basic cable and her old beat up Ford Taurus were really good enough for her. It had successfully gotten her out of being called ‘the trust fund kid’.

After flipping through the channels half a dozen times, Stephanie realized that there wasn’t really anything good on cable TV at 5:30 in the afternoon. Defeated, she gathered up her clothes in hopes that after an hour at the Laundromat something better might be on the TV. She threw the duffel bag in the back seat of the car and drove three blocks back up to the main road and pulled off into the Laundromat parking lot.

If Dominic would have blinked he would have missed it. He’d been staring out the window for a few hours now when he noticed her. Parked at the window of the fast food restaurant across the street, in an old Ford was Stephanie, and he continued to watch as she pulled out, passed him by, and proceeded up the road. He raced to the back window and caught a glimpse of her tail lights as they disappeared a few blocks away.

Damned if I’m not closer than I thought!  He exclaimed to himself as he parked on the bed in silent contemplation.

It wasn’t forty minutes later that Stephanie's Ford reappeared and headed straight for the Laundromat. Here’s my chance! He grinned as he scooped up his clothes, hastily anxious. Dirty or clean didn’t matter to him. It was just an excuse to see her anyways. He hit the stairs running, taking two at a time. He barely beat her in the door by a breath as he chucked his laundry in the first washer that he passed. He was putting quarters in the machine pretending to be occupied when she addressed him.

“Two times in one day is quite the coincidence eh Dominic? You’re not stalking me are you?”

He tensed up. Damn her… he turned and smiled.

“Hey Stephanie, how’s your head?” He smiled charmingly as he pushed the start button.

“I’m doing much better thanks.” She loaded the mega washer with her clothes.

“The question is: are you stalking me?” He winked at her.

“If I was, you’d be the last to know.” She replied shocked by her own bold words.

“Indeed.” He grinned. “To answer your question, I am not stalking you. I live upstairs, and its laundry day.” He laughed.

“Oh, that’s good. When did you move in?” she asked casually.

“Last week. I like it so far.” He replied.

“Cool. I live right up the street from here. So stalker or not, I’m sure we’ll see each other often.” She smiled.

“I’d like that.” He replied.

“I think I would too.”  She winked as the washer buzzed.

Damn it, that was quick… he threw his clothes in the dryer.

Dominic turned back to see Stephanie engulfed in a book. The little wires of her in-ear headphones attached to the I-pod in her pocket as she rocked out to some band he had never heard before. He gave up the conversation angle discontent as he disappeared back up the stairs to his apartment. When he reappeared to collect the laundry she was already gone. So with a sigh he retreated to bed. There had to be an easier way than this. All he had to do was find it. So he closed his eyes and vanished into the shadows alone.

Seeing Dominic again had been a pleasant surprise to Stephanie. She thought about the brief encounter as she put away her laundry. She had hoped he would speak more to her and was disappointed when he disappeared upstairs leaving her alone with ‘The Lost Tractors’ playing on her I-pod. So she just gathered up her things and headed for home.

In bed watching the latest sci-fi movie on a random channel, Stephanie nodded in and out of a restless sleep. She remembered looking at the clock and being startled at the time. It was nearly midnight, not that it mattered. Wednesday was her study day so she knew she didn’t have to be up early. It wasn’t long after that the darkness embraced her, taking her back to a faraway place.

Torch after torch flared up in the darkness illuminating the room in an eerie glow. Stephanie stood there silently as she fingered the cold steel sword in her right hand. The leather pants and corset fit snugly and warmly against her skin. The same breeze that played against the flames of the torches also blew her long trench coat against her laced up leather boots. She was not herself here and yet she knew she was more herself now than she had been in a long time. She held her breath in anticipation of what was to come.

“Sephira,” The voice taunted in a sing song tone. She didn’t reply.

“Come now, Sephira. I know you’re there.” He replied with a chuckle as the sound of a blade scraping against stone came from behind her.

She brought her sword up and effortlessly blocked the oncoming blow. The man swung again, their swords meeting in a shower of sparks. She side stepped as he appeared in front of her ready to strike at her once again.

“Be gone from me Sephiroth!” She shouted as she deflected another attack.

He didn’t respond with words. Instead he planted his elbow into her gut and proceeded to growl as she deflected his continued attempts with the sword. The deafening clang of sword against sword echoed through the room as they continued the standoff. His wild eyes danced with an evil glow from the torch light as he spun the sword around in his hand and struck again and again. She struggled to keep up as he brutally swung, jabbed, and danced around her.

Sephiroth’s sword came down with such force, it took the blade clean off at the hilt leaving Sephira defenseless against him. Her arm ached from the abuse of the constant defensive stand, and as the searing pain registered in her mind, she realized that his blade had connected with her arm. Without flinching, she reached out and wrenched the sword from his hands. Just as quickly as she had held it, it was lost to her. A well placed kick sent the blade flailing from her hands, and as he tackled her, it sent them both tumbling to the cold stone floor.

For a moment Sephira thought she had Sephiroth pinned to the floor. His arms were firmly held against the stone floor by his wrists. As he wrapped his legs around her waist he struggled against her bleeding arm. He pulled it close to his mouth, and while the blood flowed past his lips, he grinned.

“That’s it. Bleed for me again my darling.” He said throwing her back onto the floor and holding her down.

“You missed me.” He grinned wider.

“Trust me.” She replied as she threw all her weight into him.

They rolled around the stone floor together both struggling to gain the upper hand. But this time she had him pinned for good. Sephira used her knee to press down his chest harshly cutting off his air supply. With her good hand she reached to the small of her back and felt for the cold wooden handle. In the blink of an eye he realized his moment was over. The solid click of the hammer and the cold steel barrel pressed between his eyes confirmed it. He threw up his hands in defeat.

“I won’t miss this time.” She growled.

“Point taken.”

“Don’t come back for me again.” She pushed away from him violently and disappeared into the darkness.

Stephanie woke up trembling. Her sheets were a wreck from the sweaty battle the dream had given her. They were torn free of the mattress, half resting on the floor beside the bed. The nightstand was in shambles with the lamp tipped over, and her forearm ached as if it had been what destroyed the serenity of objects around her.

It was just a dream. She tried to tell herself.

But as Stephanie looked at the two inch gash on her left arm she began to second guess herself. As she patched herself up in the bathroom she tried to reassure herself that the cut had come from thrashing during sleep, not from the dream. Although it had felt so real she chalked it up to the night terrors from watching one too many Sci-fi movies at bedtime. She secured the bandage with tape and then swallowed a few aspirins.

Once patched up, Stephanie returned to bed only to decide that she would have to make another trip to do laundry. The blood and sweat had wrecked the sheets to the point where she wouldn’t be getting any more rest that night. So, she put on a pot of coffee and settled in to watch her first sunrise of the season, trying hard to make the dream fade away as the shadows turned to daylight.

Stephanie filled her travel mug. After that, she stuffed the dirty sheets and pillow cases into her duffel bag. She cleaned up the scattered remains of her lamp, and alarm clock, and dusted off the nightstand. Thankfully, no permanent damage had been done to any of the furniture. She didn’t feel like explaining this one to the land lord anyways. She threw her back pack over her shoulder, deciding to spend a few hours at the library after washing the sheets. With coffee and keys in hand, she tossed the bags into the car and headed for Main Street.

Stephanie glanced up at the dark windows of the upstairs apartment as she pulled into the Laundromat parking lot. It didn’t surprise her that everything was so quiet. It was still far too early for the college area to be buzzing with busy students. Seven in the morning in a college town was a rare moment, hardly seen by many these days. She locked up her car anyways and threw her laundry bag over her shoulder as she made her way inside.

The Laundromat was empty and Stephanie found herself thankful for the peace and quiet. She stuffed her sheets in the washer wincing a bit as the throbbing pain returned to her arm. Frustratingly, she slammed the door shut, dropped in her coins, and lounged back against the window to wait. The silence was overwhelming and for a peaceful moment, she closed her eyes.

Stephanie’s mind drifted through one random thought after another. An eternity seemed to pass by her in a matter of mere seconds. As her thoughts continued to drift, she found herself flying through the clouds in a star filled night sky. It was breathtaking, as millions of stars blinked and shined their lights for only her, when she passed them by.

It didn’t take long and the star light faded away. It was soon replaced with torch light. The flames cast wickedly twisting shadows on the cold stone walls. Stephanie found herself back in the circular room. This time it was different. She stood outside of herself, viewing the past as if it was an old movie playing on a screen, and she was just the extra person overlooked by the actors. She watched herself battle one person after another. Sweat poured from her forehead as swords clanged and opponents fell to the floor defeated.

She slashed, swept the feet out from under them, fought with swords and knees, until they went down and another stepped forward. It went on like this for some time. Lines were drawn and crossed. Opponents came in single mannerisms, and some in dual pairs. Swords clinked, blood was spilled, and ferocious howls of victory and defeat filled the silence. Then the first audible voice made itself known.

“Well done child.” The man praised.

Stephanie watched herself smile pleased once again at the pleasure of being undefeated. As the man spoke, she effortlessly twirled her sword around in her hands several times before planting the tip of the blade on the floor. She hit her knees, averted her eyes, and rested her forehead on her hands on the hilt.

“Thank you.” She replied in a hauntingly familiar tone.

Stephanie shivered as she looked upon herself in complete confusion. She watched as the woman, ignoring protocol, shifted her eyes up toward the master. Her vision then changed, only to find the master standing with a smug smirk upon his face. Then, he was gone, along with the vision.

Stephanie returned to reality as the dryer buzzed in finality. She wondered when she had the time to put the clothes in the dryer. It didn’t matter. The strange vision faded away from her, and with it, went the immediate memory. She gathered up her things and then she reloaded the car and headed for the library.

Chronicles of Promistair Volume 2 excerpt

Prologue:

It was dark that night. Thunder rolled across the land as the Goddess rained fire down upon the earth. The storms raged onward outside the castle but inside the strong walls, all was deathly silent.

Lord Larigh stood at the foot of the Queen’s bed, leaning nervously against the mattress. Lord Draven held Airis’ hand softly as she grew paler by the passing hour. Sir Brenlen paced the quiet chambers, frustrated by his inability to help.

At last, Eron appeared in the door. He silently made his way over to her bed. He was watched with frayed emotions as he checked Airis over.

“There’s nothing I can do.” Eron sighed bitterly.

“What do you mean nothing?” Draven hollered hysterically.

“The shock to her body was too extensive. She is going to die.” Eron made his way over to the twins as they slept away peacefully. The storm continued to rage on outside as Brenlen snagged Larigh and took him into the hall.

“It wasn’t supposed to be this way.” Brenlen hissed.

“Something isn’t right that’s for sure. The balance was upset by the death of Kael.” Larigh replied just as frustrated.

“It should have been obvious that the word of the ancients was broken when the girl was born. If we are to restore the balance, she has to go.”

“Harsh words Brenlen.” Larigh growled.

“Just might be harsh, but it’s the truth and you know it. Without Airis here to protect us, these children are in real danger.”

“I know.” Larigh sighed in defeat.

“I’ll take Aravis to King Mallec in Praeve and watch over her there. You take young master Keenai to Alazair with Lord Drake. No one here is to know, other than Lord-Regent Draven, where we have gone. We will keep in contact through him.”

“So it shall be done my friend, but do not think I approve one moment of this.”

“Consider it well-noted.” Brenlen replied as he made his way back into Airis’ chambers.

Larigh stood in silent reflection as the hours passed. Airis had not stirred once as the time passed. They all watched, helpless, as the once strong woman who had saved them all, faded away before their eyes.

As the first rays of sunlight filtered in from the balcony, Airis drew her final breath. With the passing of the storm she too faded away into the sun.

Larigh took Keenai away that evening. They headed quickly through the forest and into the mountain pass. Drake met them at the door with open arms for the child. Larigh turned to look back at the mountain one last time, as he offered up a silent prayer for the safety of the last of the Chaosti heirs.

Mallec stared absently across the room as Brenlen carried the child to him. It had been many seasons since the two of them had seen each other. Although Mallec had traces of grey in his hair now, he marveled that his old friend had not aged a day.

Brenlen wasted no time placing Aravis in Mallec’s arms. He looked at the child with a mixture of wonder and curiosity. Brenlen bowed slightly, and then began to explain.

“Airis is gone. She passed bringing Aravis and her brother, Keenai, into this world. In order to protect them, we felt it necessary to remove them. Will you raise her as your own?” Brenlen asked.

“I owe Airis my life and my Kingdom. I will raise Aravis. My life for hers, now and forever.” Mallec said as he shed a tear.

Satisfied with his reply, Brenlen took a deep breath and followed Mallec up the stairs. He said a silent prayer for the Chaosti heirs as Aravis was laid to sleep.

The uncertain future frayed the nerves of the long-term guardians of the Chaosti house. As the sun set on another day, Brenlen and Larigh settled into their positions, uneasily reassuring themselves that it would be alright some day.

 

Chapter 1:

Aravis snuck silently down the stairs, trying to avoid the servants and her father’s disapproving glances. She just had to get out of the stuffy castle. Sir Brenlen had pushed her harder than usual in her studies that afternoon.

It was only a few more moons to her seventeenth year, and she felt like she needed a break. Aravis made her way silently through the gardens. It was nearly sun set, so it wouldn’t be long before the shops closed and the people made their way home.

There was only one thing on Aravis’ mind as she made her way through the emptying streets. The Back Door Pub was a small establishment, known by the locals for its rough crowd. She found it to be a great place to go to unwind after a long day. At home she was Aravis, Princess of Praeve, but in the pub she was just Ara.

The pub was already filling up as Ara made her way up to the bar. The bartender handed her the usual shot of whiskey and a pint. She swallowed the shot and made her way over to the corner table.

It wasn’t long into her first pint when her friends began arriving. Ineah was the eldest daughter of the jeweler, first in line to take up the craft, but the last one interested in the job. She had high hopes of relocating to Ichnae and pursuing a career in medicine.

Dael, the bakers’ son, had spent over half of his young life covered in flour. It wasn’t something he minded doing, in fact, he looked for more creative foods every day. He excelled at the fine art of food decorating.

Ary walked up behind Ineah and pinched her side, causing her to squeal in surprise. He was the rebel of their little group. He played for spare change and slept wherever he landed, which was more often than not, on a bench in the park.

The three companions pulled up a chair by Ara and began chatting away about their collective busy day. Ara smiled and nodded, but kept her own tale to herself. She had only met them a few times on other nights, and had become friendly with them. She wasn’t ready to tell them about herself just yet, out of fear she would be discovered by her father or worse, Sir Brenlen.

“So what did you do today Ara?” Dael asked snapping her back from her own thoughts.

“Oh, just the usual, studying. My teacher is a drill sergeant or something. I almost didn’t make it tonight.” Ara chuckled.

“You should seriously tell him to relax.” Ary burped out as he finished his pint.

“If only it were that easy.” Ara sighed, as she finished her own drink.

Ineah winked at Ary and dragged him out onto the dance floor as the band struck up the first tune of the night. Dael waived the waitress over with another round of drinks for himself and Ara. She smiled and nodded her appreciation as she sipped it in nervous silence.

“I missed you this week Ara. Kept stopping in here hoping I’d see you.” Dael smiled as he took her hand in his.

“I know I just was really busy this week.” She smiled weakly.

“Why don’t you tell me about it?” He asked quietly.

“Not much to tell.”

“I want to know more about you Ara, but I understand if you’re not ready to talk.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ll always be here when you’re ready.” He smiled.

“You’re so sweet.” She giggled.

“It’s all the pastries.” He winked.

Ara leaned in and kissed Dael lightly on the lips, as she had done many times before, to taste the sugar for herself.

“Definitely the pastries.” She replied as she looked deep into his blue eyes and smiled.

They sat there looking dreamily at each other for a while longer, completely oblivious of their surroundings. It wasn’t until someone cleared their throat that they felt the need to look away from each other.

Ara looked up to see Sir Brenlen hovering over them with his arms folded. He had a stern look of disapproval written on his face. Startled, Ara stood, throwing back her chair.

“Brenlen let me explain please.” She begged.

“Ara, are you ok? Who is this?” Dael asked concerned.

“Is this where you spend your night time hour’s Princess?” Brenlen growled.

“Just let me explain please!” She begged, as Dael looked on, confused.

“You’re the Princess? Is this why you wouldn’t tell me anything?” He asked nervously.

“Dael, I’m so sorry. Brenlen, he didn’t know anything, I swear it.” Ara continued to plead.

“Consider this your fair warning son. Stay away from Her Highness. Let’s go Aravis.” He took her by the arm and led her away. She looked back apologetically as he took her from the pub.

Sir Brenlen marched Aravis through the gardens and into the castle. She went along bitterly, knowing she was in trouble, and that if Brenlen had his way, she wouldn’t have the opportunity to tell Dael the truth. Once Brenlen had her back in her chambers, he began the lecture she knew was coming.

“That was very irresponsible of you young lady.” He began.  “Do you have any idea how bad that could have been if you had been discovered?”

“I’m sorry.”

“You will not return to the town for any reason Aravis. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, Sir Brenlen.” She replied bitterly.

“That display with that young man was unbecoming of a Princess.”

“I know. I meant no harm. I just went there to relax with my friends.”

“Those are not your friends. They are commoners, and you will not see them again.” He demanded. She looked sadly down at the floor as a tear fell down her cheek.

“Is that clear?” He snapped.

“Yes.” She replied.

“Good, now get some rest. Its back to your lessons at first light, and after this stunt you can be certain they won’t be pleasant.”

Brenlen closed the door behind himself. Ara threw herself face down on the bed and wept for all she had lost that night, believing that no one would understand how she truly felt.

Brenlen found King Mallec in the library shortly after sunrise. He sighed as he walked through the door. He disliked having to explain Aravis’ actions almost as much as he disliked punishing her for them.

“Morning Brenlen. What can I do for you today?” Mallec smiled.

“It’s Aravis again.” He sighed as he took a seat across from him.

“She reminds me so much of her mother it saddens me. I found her in the local pub last night with a young man.”

“You made a scene there didn’t you Brenlen.” Mallec chuckled. “She won’t forgive you for it if she is anything like her mother.”

“I’ve got to protect her, even from herself. It’s my duty, and I hope one day she understands that.” He replied standing.

“You work that girl way too hard.” Mallec stated.  “What will come when she learns the truth? If you continue to push her she’ll find her own path.”

“It’s not yet time for her to know the truth.” Brenlen stated as he walked toward the door.

“Not yet time for who Brenlen, you?” Brenlen didn’t reply. He closed the door behind himself and made his way silently down the hall.

Ara met Brenlen in the private garden her father had designed for her. An eight foot stone wall had been constructed to keep people from straying in on her while she practiced.

Brenlen had already reset the target dummies by the time Ara had made her way to the waterfall. She sighed heavily and grasped at her skirt as she stopped next to him. He smiled warmly at her.

“Rest well Princess?” He asked.

“Well enough thank you.” She muttered, still obviously frustrated about the night before.

“All is good then. Ready to practice?”

“As ready as I’m going to be.” Ara replied as she let her skirt loose and shook her hands out.

“Three separate targets today Aravis. I want to see short, controlled bursts this time.” Brenlen explained. Ara nodded her understanding as she steadied her breathing.

“Begin.” Brenlen stated.

Ara opened her eyes, completely focused. As she looked around for her targets, her breathing slowed down to the point it appeared she wasn’t breathing at all.

As Ara laid her eyes on the first target, time stopped for her. In a split-second her hands came up. Energy shot from her fingertips that sent the dummy flying in a shower of splinters.

The other two dummies came into focus. Ara’s hands shot out to her sides, and the other two dummies flew back off their stands. Time came back as her breathing became heavier. Dizziness threatened to take her as she hit the ground, nearly exhausted.

“Very good Aravis.” Brenlen said as he helped her to her feet.

“Tell me again why we do this.” She said as he sat her down on the bench.

“It’s what you were born for Princess. When your gifts expose themselves, we hone them so you learn how to use them properly.” He replied.

“Why can’t I be like everyone else? I can’t even ride a cloud like my father can.” She pouted, as her frustration became obvious.

“All answers come in time Aravis. Why don’t we take the afternoon off? Your dagger and sword skills are good enough for you to take a break.” Brenlen smiled kindly.

“Your birthday celebration is tomorrow after all. You should be well-rested for it.” He chuckled.

“It’s not my celebration. It’s my fathers. No one I know is allowed to come.” She stated harshly as she stood.

“I’ll be in the front courtyard, working in the gardens there if anyone wants me.” She stormed away, leaving Brenlen to shake his head behind her.

Ara kneeled in the dirt as she put the last plants in the earth. As she reached for the watering can, she noticed the bushes shifting unnaturally.

Without a second thought, Ara lashed out with a small energy wave. It landed right on target and was responded to by a foul curse in a familiar voice.

Dael fell out of the bushes, cursing as he held his wounded arm close to his body. Ara cursed and threw her hands up to hide her embarrassment as she raced over to help him up.

“I am so sorry.” She stammered as he looked at her completely shocked.

“Let me see it please.” She said, taking his hand gently in hers.

Ara gently brushed her right hand across the wound on Dael’s arm. It closed effortlessly, leaving no reminder of the injury. He looked at her, stupefied.

“There was obviously a lot you didn’t tell me.”

“What are you doing here anyways? Brenlen will kill you if he sees you.” She hissed as she dragged him back into the bushes.

Dael took Ara’s head in his hands, and kissed her deeply. She gasped as he finally let her go. They looked each other in the eyes for a few moments before speaking.

“I missed you.” He whispered.

“I missed you too Dael, but you really should go. I wish things were different.”

“They can be. It’s not that hard to see how you feel about me.”

“It’s more complicated than that.”

“No, its simple Ara. I’ll prove it to you somehow.”

“Just go before something happens. I can’t stand the thought of what they would do to you if they found out.”

Ara stood and walked away without looking back. Dael sighed to himself in the fading light of the day then slowly made his way home, alone.