Ardent_Tears

Interlude: A Voice Beneath the Waves

A few weeks had passed since Tehri first heard the rumors about her sister. It was safe to say that she had been jumping in silent glee since then. She had celebrated with Kamren later that first day and Hana cooked something nice as well.

There were still a few challenges, especially with how expensive it was to get something delivered to the capital in any meaningful time frame, and there was no guarantee that she would see it. She had tried before with Tyris, and it hadn’t worked. Either that or he had ignored it. Tehri didn't really want to consider that option, so she did her best to disregard it.

Even with the cost and the risks, Tehri was still willing to consider sending a letter. She had even spent every moment that she could when she wasn't otherwise distracted composing it. When it was finally done, she rushed to the market to find a merchant bound for Tærin City. She paid the woman handsomely and even bought some of her wares in the form of some brightly coloured yarn. Tehri was of a mind to do some knitting.

There was one slight dampener to Tehri's mood as she made her way home, however, which came in the form of an angry-looking mass of clouds coming in from the west. Even so, a little rain never hurt anyone, and the house was nice and warm

*****

The rain started falling a few hours later. It was light at first, but as the day went on, it got heavier and heavier to the point of being akin to a violent cacophony. Byrden returned home before it became too severe. Had he waited much longer, he might have needed to hole himself up at the forge. As it was, however, he had done his best to seal it up before leaving.

Tehri could see that he was scared about the smithy. It was close to the river and he had said that the normally gentle flow was already breaking the banks. Tehri had already given up hope that her garden would survive. She cursed herself for thinking it was just going to be a mild downpour. Every crash of thunder made her practically jump out of her skin.

By nightfall, the full weight of the storm was upon them. The thundering rain spoke to a primal fear in Tehri. It called to the night of the eclipse and the sound of a thousand crashing hooves. The memory was ingrained into her unconscious mind regardless of the fact that she had slept through the whole thing.

The small family of three huddled around the fire for warmth. It was a small comfort for Tehri. She craved the company of others out of fear that she would lose herself to the storm. From the way the usually confident Hana was shaking, she felt the same.

Tehri knew that they were lucky. Their house was especially well built as far as the village was concerned. Only a few others could compare. The rest were perfectly functional most of the time, including when it was particularly stormy. This was not, however, anything close to an average storm. Even the worst storms of the past five years didn’t compare. Neither did the earthquakes or the eruptions to the north.

Tehri was scared that the majority of the village wouldn't survive the night. The lightning made everything worse. It was assaulting the village with vicious intent and every strike was accompanied by a deafening roar. Before long, the charged air started to produce a sickly sweet aroma, and Tehri could feel blood coming from her ears.

A few hours later, Tehri was practically deaf in her left ear, and her right wasn’t far behind. For that reason, she was denied any warning for what was about to happen. The storm had been feeding the Tarik and Kanra Rivers that flanked either side of Aran Village nonstop, and they had grown decadent. Each river drank its fill and then carried on drinking until it could hold no more. The two torrents crashed together at Aran Village, and the river banks became a distant memory.

The flood came crashing through the house in an instant. Within seconds Tehri was separated from Hana and Byrden. They had both managed to grab hold of something as the combined might of both rivers hammered into them. Tehri had no such strength. She was slammed against a wall, and moments later, she was being pulled through the broken remains of the front door.

Panic hit hard and fast. For the second time in Tehri's short life, the Karik River was trying to kill her, and this time it would likely succeed. She started hyperventilating, which wasn't exactly the smartest thing she could do while she was being thrown around like a ragdoll by the river.

After anywhere from a few seconds to an hour passed, Tehri felt someone grab her arm. Then she was coughing up a day's worth of water from her lungs. Kamren was looming next to her on his knees, his hand up in the air. From the burning in her ribs and the fact that he was the only other person around, it was clear that he had revived her. She tried to get up and give him a hug. With how battered and bruised she was, it was a challenge, but the adrenaline coursing through her gave her the strength she needed to wrap her arms around him, and he returned the gentle embrace in kind. It was a small comfort, alongside the familiar touch of her bracelet and her sister's pendant.

Now that she was aware, Tehri realised that they were in one of the village's barns, specifically the more durable of the two. Kamren had managed to carry her through the flood and up the ladder to the barn's second level.

They'd be safe there as long as the barn remained strong. Tehri was willing to risk it. Anywhere else was too risky, and she was too scared to go back into the water.

Unfortunately for both of them, staying safe from the flood was only one of the more pressing issues they were facing. They were both soaked to the bone.

"We can't stay like this," Tehri signed, her fingers struggling to form the words because of the chill.

"What do you mean?" Kamren responded, both verbally and through sign.

"We'll get sick if we stay in these clothes," Tehri answered. "We need to remove them and huddle together for warmth."

Tehri wasn't sure if she had signed clearly enough because she was shivering, and he was blinking in confusion. She was about to sign it again when he asked, "Are you sure?"

She replied with, "Yes." One of her first lessons with Master Idyr had been survival techniques, and right now, she loved him for it.

Out of respect, they stripped back to back, though it was largely a moot point once they sat side by side against the hay. As they sat there in silence, the storm raging around them, Tehri wanted to ask Kamren what had happened and why he was alone. Unfortunately, signing wasn’t exactly designed for side-by-side communication, so she had to improvise. That is to say, she shuffled around until she was facing him, and then she simply asked him.

"We were hiding in our home like every other sane person. Once the winds really picked up, however, the thatching practically disintegrated. At that point, it was too dangerous to stay inside, so we braved the storm. I got knocked off my feet pretty quickly, and Ma got pinned down by a tree. Lightning struck as Da tried to free her. It hit the tree, and it exploded in their faces. I could barely recognise Ma after that, and Da wasn’t much better. There was nothing I could do for them. If I was any closer, I'd probably be dead as well."

Kamren was visibly crying as he told the story in both sign and spoken word. Tehri placed a comforting hand on his leg as he continued.

"After that, I tried finding shelter with our neighbours but no one would let me in, so I tried to make my way to your house. I was around halfway when the flood hit. Thankfully, I saw it coming, so I was able to get some height before it swept me away. I'm glad I did as well because it let me catch a glimpse of your bracelet quickly enough for me to catch you. After that, I struggled to get you here, and you know the rest."

As Kamren finished his telling of the events, Tehri reached up and hugged him fiercely, not caring about the pain or discomfort. She knew all too well the pain of loss. All she could do now was provide comfort for Kamren and pray that Hana and Byrden were alive and relatively well.

*****

Tehri and Kamren woke up the next morning covered in hay and holding onto each other. They scrambled up and threw on their now relatively dry clothes. The barn had survived the night, and it was clear that the storm had passed for the most part. It was still very much raining, the noise made that abundantly clear, but there weren't any howling winds or rushing flood water.

They slowly made their way down the ladder. Tehri was nervous to be heading back into the water, but there was no helping it; she had to find her guardians. It helped that the water had retreated enough to only reach her knees. The flow was also much slower than it had been the night before.

When they were both in the water again, they waded to the barn doors, making sure not to stand on anything hidden by the muddy deluge. Kamren opened the doors with some effort so that they could step outside.

The village was in ruins. It had been completely devastated by the storm. Tehri was amazed that there was anything left. She was also terrified, with the nightmarish scene before her eating away at her hope.

"Let's hurry," she signed to Kamren.

"Sure thing," he answered back, only half signing. Fortunately, Tehri's hearing had started to return.

They made their way through the village, seeing only the occasional person looking around aimlessly. Tehri tripped a couple of times as they made their way to her house, and she was extremely grateful that she couldn’t see what she had caught her feet on.

When they finally reached the Kaafast home, Tehri was glad to see that it was in a much better state than much of the village. That is to say that there was still half a building. Tehri wanted to call out for Hana and Byrden, but she couldn’t even manage a whisper. Even now, her voice was lost to her. Instead, Kamren did what she could not.

After five minutes of shouting and searching through the rubble, they heard a noise coming from one of the intact rooms. They had to remove a fair bit to get inside, but once they did, Tehri breathed a sigh of relief. Hana and Byrden had managed to jury-rig their bed and a wardrobe to elevate themselves above the water line. They were both alive and in miraculously good condition.

Hana dived off the bed and hugged Tehri. "I'm so glad that you're safe. We thought we'd lost you."

"I had to stop Hana from going after you," Byrden added as he hopped down. "Do you know if the forge is safe?"

"We haven't seen it yet," Kamren answered.

"That's a shame. It's good to see you, Kamren. Is your family safe?"

"Dead." His answer didn't really need more elaboration than that.

"I'm sorry."

"I couldn't save them, but I did save Tehri."

Hana let Tehri go and turned to face Kamren. "Thank you, Kamren, and sorry for your loss."

“What now?” Tehri signed.

"We check the forge and then look for survivors," Byrden answered.

"And then we'll need to ask if we want to rebuild or move on," Hana added.

"I don't think there will be enough people left to rebuild," Kamren lamented.

He was right. By the end of their search, less than a quarter of the village's population had survived. Even if there were more survivors, more than half of the buildings were just gone, and less than a tenth were close to being moderately intact. It was clear they couldn't stay.

Still, there was one thing they needed to do before they could even consider getting ready to leave.

The survivors all worked together to gather any bodies that could still be found in the village. Many had been dragged away by the flood, but those that remained would threaten to contaminate the river for everyone downstream if they weren't removed.

A few more people fell to their injuries and sickness as they worked.

Tehri was numb by the end of it. At the same time, numb wasn't quite the right word to describe what she was feeling on account of the fact that she was still very much feeling. She just didn't know any words that'd be more suitable.

There was a silver lining to the conclusion of their grim task, however, as they could finally start getting ready to leave. It didn’t take long. Hana and Byrden settled on taking little more than a change of clothes, their lockbox, a small cache, and the few tools they could salvage from Byrden's smithy. Most other people didn't even have that much. A coin purse here or there. A blanket. Maybe an heirloom if they were lucky. Most had nothing.

By the time everyone was ready to leave, the question of where came to the forefront. Tehri already had her answer.

Næmyris.

It didn’t take long to convince Hana, Byrden, or Kamren, and her guardians, in turn, were able to convince a little less than half of the survivors to join them at least some of the way. The rest chose to go west.

With destinations decided on, a single task remained. They gathered all the food that could be salvaged and then shared it equally. Any unclaimed valuables from the search were also considered fair game for anyone who found them.

When dawn broke the day after the rain stopped, they were ready to leave in earnest.

Chapter 37: No Looking Back

Early the next morning, Seres woke up to Rowan dancing.

“Have you been dancing all this time?” Seres yawned upon entering the living room.

“Aye.”

Rowan was dripping with sweat, and her body was screaming in protest at the lack of sleep. At the same time, she was still just as awake as she had been the night before.

Seres chose not to comment on Rowan’s lack of sleep. Not after what had happened. Instead, she offered Rowan a sympathetic smile. “You should probably get a quick bath before we leave. I’ll make sure we have everything.”

*****

They arrived at the precinct as the guard was switching over for the morning shift. The guard on desk duty greeted them politely, only to be immediately ignored as the girls marched straight past him in search of the guard captain’s office. They were there on a mission, and they weren’t about to be stopped by procedure.

Upon finding the guard captain’s office, they slammed the door open.

The captain jumped in his chair, knocking over some paperwork.

"What in the blazes? Who are you? Who let you in here?"

Seres gave him a steely look. She had insisted that she be the one to do the talking, at least in the beginning. "We're here to follow up on a complaint that was levelled against two of your men."

"What are you talking about?"

"Last night, two of your men mocked and embarrassed my companion whilst attempting to arrest her for merely defending herself against an individual who was actively attacking her.”

“Ah, yes. I’ve seen the report. A simple misunderstanding, I’m sure.”

“And you’re confident that a formal investigation from the Crown would come to the same conclusion?”

"The Crown?"

It was then that the guard captain saw Seres' signature eyes.

"Your Highness! We had word of your return, but never in my wildest dreams did I think you would visit our poor town so soon."

His tone had completely changed from annoyed to flattering with a hint of fear.

"I'm here with my friend and companion, Lady Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir, who was attacked and almost raped last night. When your men arrived on the scene, they proceeded to mock, harass, and threaten her. Forgive me for not seeing the ‘misunderstanding’.”

“Well, according to the report, she was visibly armed.”

“Because she had to defend herself. The way Private Ilum and Lance Corporal Kasta acted was shameful and incredibly unbecoming for any lawkeeper. How many victims have they punished? How many victims have they made to suffer? How many victims have they put behind bars? Had Rowan not revealed her rank and station, I have no doubt they would have tried to arrest her. It should never have gotten to that point. They should have been offering their care and support. Now they will instead be facing disciplinary action.

“When we leave, you will inform the guardsmen that they are being dismissed until further notice. I will also be sending word to my mother and military command in order to inform them of the events that have transpired here. I’ll be requesting a formal investigation of your precinct for other instances of gross misconduct, malpractice, and corruption. Are we clear?"

"Yes, Your Highness. Completely."

"Excellent. Is there anything you'd like to add, Rowan?"

Rowan nodded. “I want the two guardsmen fined, along with anyone else that has facilitated similar injustices to the people of this town. The money can go to supporting the victims of their actions.”

The guard captain paled slightly. "I'm not sure — are you going to ratify that request, Your Highness?"

"I don't need to," Seres answered. "Rowan was granted the titles of Ardent Flame and An’Fær by my mother. Surely you’ve heard the news? She’d be well within her rights to demand a much harsher punishment. Here is the written decree and her seal if you don’t believe me.”

The guard captain paled even more. He could almost pass for a corpse. "That won't be necessary. Is that all?"

"I think so, don't you, Rowan?"

"Aye."

With nothing left to be said, they left the terrified guard captain to his duties. When they returned to the front desk, they met up with Lochlan and Liadra. Then they made their way back to the inn for breakfast and the small amount of packing they needed to do. They didn't say much as they ate. Conversation would just slow them down, and neither of them wanted to stay in the town any longer than they had to.

After breakfast, Seres let Rowan take another bath while she packed. The first bath had been enough to clean her from all the sweat, but it wasn’t enough to cleanse her of what had happened. Granted, it wasn’t the kind of filth that could be removed through bathing, but it helped.

When Rowan finished getting dressed, she attached the Seal of the Ardent Flame firmly to her belt. She knew it was meant to highlight her status, but she still forgot about it occasionally.

As she thought about it then and there, however, she wondered if the seal would have been useful with the guards. If she was wearing it and they recognised it, they might have acted differently.

At the same time, Rowan doubted they would have had the cognisance to recognise it as little more than fancy jewellery. It was also unlikely that descriptions of the seal and what it signified would have meaningfully reached someone of their ranking. She was sure, however, that with enough time, people would recognise both her and the seal.

*****

The girls left Baromiir with Lochlan and Liadra as soon as they were ready. They rode hard and fast and remained quiet for the most part until the town was but a distant memory. The countryside flew by from naked fields, to verdant grasslands and onto forests of deepest crimson. Signs of winter were everywhere.

Rowan had forgotten how beautiful her homeland could be, and seeing it helped with the trauma. It helped to remind her that she was free. It was by no means enough to eradicate her nightmares, but it was another positive thought she could draw on to keep them at bay.

Keeping busy was another thing that helped. Besides conversation on the road, this was mostly achieved through practising or teaching Seres whenever they set up camp.

Following Baromiir, Lochlan and Liadra also started joining them for their training sessions, with Liadra taking an active role in teaching Seres whilst also offering to spar with Rowan. Her skill and experience in hand-to-hand combat, in particular, was highly beneficial for Rowan.

Liadra's involvement with Seres’ lessons also gave Rowan more opportunities to train independently. Most of this time was spent dancing or mastering Elan Fiir, though she added in some arboreal agility whenever they made camp amidst a suitable patch of trees. The thrill of leaping through the trees was one she could never forget.

There were still limits to how much exercise Rowan could do, so she needed other ways to keep herself busy. Some of that came in the form of some portable games that she and Seres had brought with them. With a few exceptions, the games were all new to them, which was both fortunate and embarrassing.

They were both particularly bad at card games, especially when faced with a pair of military veterans who, as a general rule, loved cards and dice. It didn’t help that most of the card games Lochlan and Liadra introduced to them featured a fair amount of bluffing. The mechanics were simple enough, but Rowan was pretty much an open book when it came to her emotions. Seres managed to keep a tighter hold of her tells for the most part, but her ears and tail had a mind of their own.

On the flipside, Lochlan was completely unreadable, thanks to his Gift. As he was relying on his Gift, however, Seres was able to see right through him. This left Liadra as the undisputed queen of cards as she had mastered the mannerisms of a stone-faced professional on account of her role as a Dusk Agent.

It wasn't all fun and exercise, however. There was one last activity that Rowan kept close to her heart. Singing, the memory of her mother made manifest. She would never forget. With Elan Fiir, she would always have a part of her mother nearby. To the world, however, Hlii'hæra Naliir was gone, and Rowan wasn’t about to let the world forget her. So she sang. She gave life to her mother's music so that it would never die again.

*****

After a couple of days, they arrived in Telmaris. It was surprisingly modest despite having a fair amount of inherent wealth from being home to one of the larger branches of the national hunter’s guild. Then again, the sea of log cabins and wooden lodges was extremely characteristic of a town founded by a group of hunters.

At the same time, the guild was only a part of the picture. The rest could be found in its position on the Telma River for which it was named. It was at the point where most of the larger river vessels had to stop as they were unable to venture the rest of the way upstream to Feldran. At the same time, it was also fairly impractical for the smaller vessels to go further downstream, so Telmaris became a much-needed exchange point for goods going up and down the river.

For Rowan and Seres, however, it was only a place to eat and rest for the night before moving on. After the events of Baromiir, they didn't want to linger any longer than necessary. They had even considered skipping the town entirely, but it was far too late to be worth it. The chance to stock up on supplies was also appreciated.

*****

After Telmaris, they entered the foothills that surrounded the Kærinsiir mountain range. The road continued to follow the river as it snaked through the hills, though it was occasionally diverted to allow for a slightly steeper, more direct path.

As they set up camp one last time before reaching Feldran, Rowan had an idea. She broached it to Seres after they finished doing their stretches.

"So, hear me out, Seres. I've got an idea that could help both of us, but it's a wee bit risky."

"Go on?"

"I need to practise dodging things, and you haven't done any training with your abilities."

"I don't think I like where this is going," Seres muttered quietly.

"So what I was thinking is that you conjure things up and try to hit me with them, and I dodge. Simple."

"You're right. That is dangerous. And stupid. When did you become an idiot? Do you want to get hurt? Is it something you ate?"

"I don't think so…"

"I'm not convinced."

Rowan rolled her eyes. "Just listen. Your abilities have excellent combat potential…"

"And I can practise with them without trying to hit you," Seres interjected.

"You could, but if you're going to use them to defend yourself, you need to be able to aim at a moving target; otherwise they'll be next to useless. Trust me, I'll be fine." Rowan responded with complete confidence in her own abilities

Seres stared right into her eyes for a good minute before throwing her arms up and turning back to her packs. "This is on you if it goes wrong," she said as she returned wearing a bracelet and a couple of extra rings.

"No holding back."

In response, Seres threw a small frozen dart straight at Rowan. This was Rowan's first time seeing Seres do anything other than lighting their fires and she was impressed. She didn’t even see the ice form, and it would have hit her just above the heart if she hadn't dodged.

Seres alternated primarily between more ice darts and jets of flame as her means of attack. Alas, Rowan was able to evade with ease. She wasn’t even breaking a sweat.

After five minutes, however, Seres proved that she had no intent of holding back. Light flashed from one of her rings, blinding Rowan for a second. When Rowan's vision returned, Seres was in the air, far higher than should have been possible, and she started unleashing a hailstorm on Rowan's location. Rowan dived to her left in the nick of time and landed in a roll, though she had to stop herself from going any further as she nearly rolled into a wall of fire.

Seres returned to her original gambit after that. Then another flash of light. Rowan looked up, expecting another frozen hail. Instead, she felt something wrap around her ankles. Seres was touching the ground causing gnarled roots to erupt and trap Rowan in place. With Rowan unable to move out of the way, Seres launched one final jet of flame. There was a glint, and Rowan was cutting the flame in twain, her sword striking the hidden ice dart.

When the flames dissipated, Rowan saw Seres fall to her knees in exhaustion. She cut the roots away before rushing to Seres’ side. The concern on her face was palpable.

"Seres? What's the matter? Are you okay?"

"I pushed the Resonance too far," Seres panted. "These crystals aren't meant for that level or rate of output, so I had to amplify the Resonance on my end. It isn't easy."

"When I said don't hold back, I didn't mean to the point of you collapsing."

"I wanted to impress you," Seres replied meekly.

"You certainly managed to do that," Rowan smiled, "but you really didn't need to."

"How else am I going to shine next to an Ardent?"

"You already shine, Seres. Even without any powers, you are loved. Do you not remember how people celebrated your return? Do you not remember what people call you? The Star Flower Princess. If that still isn't enough, we're sisters, and nothing will change that fact.”

“You're right,” Seres replied tearfully.

“Of course I'm right! It's a big sister's job to be right!”

“Learn that from Tyris?”

“From failing Tehri.”

“You haven't failed her.”

“I did,” Rowan replied simply. “Not when I saved her, but before that. I wasn't there for her, and I thought I was doing the right thing. I won't fail her again.” She made the declaration with fire in her eyes.

Meanwhile, at the edge of the clearing, Lochlan muttered something to Liadra.

“Do we include this in our report?”

“No. I'm sure Her Majesty already knows, so why ruin a good moment by sharing it unnecessarily?”

“I should have known you'd say something like that.”

Short Delay

Just wanted to let you all know that there is going to be a slight delay on today's Patreon chapter. I've had an extremely busy week and I woke up to a panic attack. It shouldn't be too long, but I didn't want to leave you in the dark.

Chapter 36: Next Stop, Baromiir

They arrived in Baromiir, the first of three major settlements along the Telma River, just in time for a late lunch. It was a similar size to Næmyris, only it was split through the middle by the river. Even so, Rowan was rather unimpressed. The town lacked character. All it really had going for it was positioning.

You could comfortably get to Baromiir from Telmaris, the next major town, in a single day when travelling by boat. Likewise, Baromiir to Midiris was also day by boat. This resulted in it growing as a natural waypoint for trade along the Telma River.

Yet, in spite of all the wealth that must have passed through the town, it was boring.

Rowan’s growing disappointment in Baromiir persisted until they reached the town’s namesake. A giant bridge spanning the entire width of the river towered above them. It was tall enough to allow even the largest of river vessels to navigate under and then some. In addition to being tall, however, it was also incredibly long, the main ramps alone taking an impressive chunk of the town’s width. It also had two equally impressive side ramps on either side that circled round to allow access from the river road.

Rowan and Seres both saw countless people using the bridge, giving them a solid idea of how it could affect those who used it every day. One such example came in the form of a surprisingly large Ferran man who was helping to push a cart up one of the ramps. There was a limit to how bulky a Ferran could get as their muscles tended to get denser and more toned instead of larger. The Ferran in question, however, had muscles that could put a draft horse to shame and legs the size of tree trunks.

For the most part, he looked fairly normal with the exception of his legs which were the size of tree trunks.

"I didn't even know that was possible," Seres muttered quietly upon seeing him.

"Tell me about it," Rowan replied, not even trying to hide her horrified awe.

*****

They kept riding, passed the bridge, and onto the inn that had been recommended to them. It was a larger inn with an attached stables by the name of The Three-Eyed Hunter. To the locals, it probably felt like a fairly innocent name for an inn. Rowan and Seres, in contrast, found it mildly terrifying, especially after they saw the sign; the owners had named the inn after the Vhoraks, one of the most voracious predators in the world. The realisation was punctuated by a rumbling of their stomachs.

"Shall we?" Rowan asked, her face rosy from embarrassment.

"We really should," Seres replied.

The moment they walked through the door, they were greeted by a plump Ferran lady with an extremely bright and energetic smile.

"Welcome to The Three-Eyed Hunter," the woman said cheerfully, "I'm the owner, Klei. How can we help?"

Rowan greeted her with a smile of her own. "Hi! We were hoping to stay the night and get some food."

"Of course! We have a few different tiers of room available. I won’t bother wasting your time with communal rooms; the private rooms and suites are much more suitable for respectable young ladies such as yourselves."

"Private will be fine," Seres replied.

"And will you be needing two rooms or just one? You aren't lovers, are you? It's totally fine if you are. We just ask that you aren't too loud if you decide to have sex in the wee hours; only the suites have noise absorption crystals."

"No," Seres laughed, “we’re just sisters.”

"I thought as much, but you never know."

"What are the suites like?” Rowan asked.

“Are you sure, Rowan?”

“After the nightmare I had last night, I’d rather not risk waking up the other guests.”

“Ah, good point,” Seres replied. She then gave Klei a warm smile. “You can proceed, Innkeeper Klei.”

“Just Klei is fine, my dear. Each suite has a living space, a restroom, a bath, full plumbing, and at least one bedroom.”

The mention of a bath and proper plumbing had Rowan’s and Seres’ polite smiles widening into grins. “Why didn’t you start with the bath?” Rowan asked whimsically.

“I take it you’ll be wanting a suite then?”

“Aye,” Seres answered. “We’ll just need the one bedroom, but our friends, Lochlan and Liadra, will also be needing a room. Can you ensure they get one close to ours?”

“I most certainly can.”

“How much will it be?” Rowan asked.

“We normally charge three silver links a night for a single-bedroom suite, but I think I can reduce that to two silver and ten bronze, breakfast included.”

“Sounds good to me. What do you think, Seres?”

“I was sold on the bath.”

Klei beamed at the response. “If you just sign here then. I’ll get you your keys, and a porter can show you to the suite.”

Shortly after checking out the suite, the girls returned to the common room, where they feasted on succulent roast lamb, rosemary potatoes, feather greens, and carrots cooked in red wine. By the end of it, Rowan had almost forgotten that she was supposed to start teaching Seres how to defend herself. She eventually concluded that lessons would need to wait until after their meal had settled.

*****

"I'm surprised they let us in without so much as a question," Rowan remarked as they practically waltzed into one of the local garrison’s training grounds. It would have made more sense if Lochlan or Liadra were there, but they were keeping watch from the shadows.

"Maybe they like keeping an eye on people when they train, or they think it will help with motivation. I also doubt the garrison is large enough to use it all the time, so why let it go to waste?"

The latter of Seres’ observations made sense. The Baromiir garrison was mostly there to serve as a town guard instead of as a military force, so while they were probably larger than Seres was estimating, they most likely didn’t train anywhere near as much as the soldiers in the capital did.

"Whatever their reason, I'm not going to complain," Rowan grinned. Then she asked  Seres the all too important question. "Are you ready?"

Seres glanced at her nervously. "I think so."

"That doesn't exactly fill me with confidence."

"It's just…"

"Yes?"

"Couldn’t we wear something else?"

They were wearing knee-length tunics with shorts underneath and belted at the waist. Rowan wasn’t exactly sure what the issue was.

"Would you rather be naked?" she asked.

"What? Nooo! It's just a wee bit chilly, is all."

"Is that it? I thought you were worried about modesty or something."

"Considering what we were made to wear in the caves, I'm not scared about showing a little skin."

"I was going to say. Don't worry about the cold; you'll warm up quickly enough. Now stretch!"

Seres hesitated at first, unsure of what to do. Fortunately, it didn’t take her too much time to settle into the warm-up routines she had learnt from Tyris back in Midiris. Once Rowan was sure Seres wouldn’t hurt herself, she started stretching as well.

Following their warm-up, Rowan presented Seres with a buckler and short spear.

"We'll start with these. The spear should be your go-to weapon in most cases, especially when we're on the road. As for the buckler, it's easy to carry around, so it's worth practising with it. Plus, with enough training, you should be able to hold a dagger or a crystal in the same hand."

"Sounds useful. What now?"

Instead of using words to answer, Rowan gave Seres an evil grin as she hooked Seres’ legs from under her with the butt of a blunted practice spear.

"Ow!" Seres cried out as her backside crashed into the solid ground. "What was that for?"

"Lesson one: proper feet placement. If you don't stand correctly, a stiff breeze can be enough to destabilise you. Lose your balance, and you're probably dead."

"Why didn't you just say that? I could have broken my tail!"

"Because it's a lesson you need to learn quickly. I know it hurts, but you're more likely to remember it this way. Besides, I got bruised all the time when I used to practise."

"But not anymore?" It was asked with only the hint of a question, but it was still there.

"Depends on the training and who I'm doing it with, probably. Now let's get you up and standing right. Good. Now you want to start by keeping your feet shoulders’ width apart and your knees bent slightly. Make sure you have a good bounce to your step. Right, now take the buckler and keep it in front of you."

Rowan went through the basics step by step to give her a solid baseline to work with. Some further corrections needed to be made once Seres was learning to thrust and defend against attacks. She had unfortunately taken "keep the buckler in front of you" to mean block as opposed to parry and deflect.

"You need to remember that you are almost guaranteed to be smaller and lighter than your opponents, so blocking is next to useless. The buckler has the same issue. Instead, you want to intercept or catch the opponent's weapon with it and parry. That way, you are using the energy that they put into the attack to defend against it. Of course, this changes when you have a larger shield…"

Fortunately, Seres was a quick study. She had spent hours upon hours, days upon days, watching people train in the caves. All she needed was a guiding hand and proper explanations. Part of that included the very important lesson of "Do as Rowan says and not as she does." Rowan's fighting style was, after all, extremely detached from the basics and highly augmented by her background and her nature as an Ardent.

After the spear came the dagger, then the sabre, and finally the bow. Out of the four weapons, the bow was by far the hardest for Seres. Even with the relatively light poundage on the bow, she struggled. She didn’t have the experience of using her back muscles to draw the bow, so she tried doing everything with her arms. The vicious sting of the bowstring on her skin didn’t help either.

Rowan's solution to the archery problem was simple. Seres had to shoot three arrows in a row whilst correctly engaging the proper muscles. By the end of it, she was exhausted, and Rowan was disappointed. Not with Seres, mind, but rather the fact that she had been unable to do any of her own training whilst teaching Seres, and she was overflowing with energy as a result. She wanted to do something! Training, dancing, fighting, singing, anything. For now, however, she had to tend to her charge.

Maybe I can come back later when Seres is sleeping.

That sounded like a plan. First step, get Seres back to the inn and fed. With how much Seres had been sweating, a bath was also very much required. Rowan could smell her from a couple of paces away.

*****

When they returned to the inn, Seres slipped into the bath before taking a quick bite to eat and promptly passed out. Once Rowan was sure that Seres was asleep, she asked Lochlan and Liadra to keep an eye on her. Then she left for the training grounds, only bothering to take a dagger and Elan Fiir with her.

Rather than take the main road to the training grounds, she cut through a few alleyways and side roads to save time. She started regretting it after ten minutes or so as she passed into a seedier part of town. By the time she realised, however, it was too late.

"Hey there, pretty lady!" a voice called out from behind her.

Rowan ignored it and carried on walking.

"Hey, sexy, I'm talking to you."

This time, the owner of the voice grabbed onto Rowan's shoulder with his massive right hand, and span her around. The man was large, perhaps six feet tall, and easily three, maybe even four times her weight. He also reeked of ale.

"That's more like it," he belched.

Rowan looked him in the eye. "Please let go of me, sir."

"Now, why would I do that, sweet tits? Come on, let me show you a good time."

If looks could kill, Rowan would be burning away the man's soul with the infernal stare she was giving him. He was really starting to piss her off. Rowan liked it when people found her attractive. She did not like this.

"Let go of me, sir. I won't ask again."

"And what are you going to do about it? You must be freezing dressed like that, wearing practically nothing. Let me warm you up."

"I'm warm enough, thank you."

In an instant, as if to prove her point, Rowan unshackled her burning anger and grabbed his arm.

The man roared in pain.

"You bitch!"

He grabbed Rowan by the collar with his other hand and slammed her against a nearby wall. She hit it hard, her head smashing against the rough stone. Her ears were ringing.

She hadn’t expected him to react as he did. Most people would flinch from such heat. The alcohol had numbed his sense of pain, and now his anger was a match to her own. Had she pushed on it accidentally?

The right hand returned as he started tearing off Rowan’s clothes.

Anger started giving way to fear.

Clarity.

The fear enhanced her senses. Agony cleared her mind.

A single draw.

The man fell. His blood was dripping from Elan Fiir.

There were people there. No one came to her aid. They only watched. Horrified.

"Stop right there!"

Two guards were rushing onto the scene with their spears pointed at Rowan. What did they see, a victim or a threat?

"Drop the weapon, Miss. You're under arrest."

Rowan stared at them incredulously. "Are you fucking serious?" she demanded, her fear starting to fade as her anger once again became a raging inferno fueled by shame and disgust.

“Yes, Ma’am. On the charge of wanton assault and potential murder of an unarmed individual with a lethal weapon.”

"The fucker attacked me, you dick-addled, cock munching, thunder cunts. He would have raped me if I wasn’t able to defend myself."

"And the sword?"

Rowan couldn’t believe a thing they were saying. "Is that the only thing you can see?"

"We're trying to be respectful by not looking at anything else, Miss."

"Public nudity is, however, frowned upon."

It was clear that they knew nothing of respect from the way their wandering eyes studied her every nook and cranny.

"For fucks sake, you eejits. Do you think I ripped my own clothes to pieces? He did this."

"Do you have any means of corroborating that statement, Miss?"

The guards sickened Rowan almost as much as the man did. Perhaps even more. They knew what they were doing.

"You mean other than the tattered remains of my clothes or multiple witnesses?"

"The clothes are circumstantial evidence, and as no one has offered a statement that supports your claims, we still need to bring you in for questioning."

"So that you can have a go yourselves? You can fuck right off.”

“Cursing won’t help your case, Miss?”

"SHUT THE FUCK UP OR, GODDESS HELP ME, I'LL RIP YOUR THROATS OUT! I AM ROWAN'EFRII ALYRIS NALIIR, ARDENT FLAME OF MIDIRIS AND LADY OF FIRE BY DECREE OF QUEEN ELARIN!"

As if to punctuate her booming voice, Rowan's infernal rage ignited the very air around her. The two guards and everyone else paled in the light of her fury.

"You are both done. Your career is over. Don’t try to run. I know your faces. Now make yourselves useful and get this man out of my sight.”

The guards dropped their spears. Rowan didn’t care what they did next. She just strode past them. She was heading back to the inn.

Seres turned a nearby corner and started running towards her. Lochlan and Liadra were just behind her.

“Rowan,” she called out.

"Seres? What are you doing here?"

She pointed to a ring on her left index finger. It was one of two that they had been given by Queen Elarin to mark them becoming sisters. A Resonant pair.

"My ring woke me up. When I noticed you weren't there, I came running as fast as I could."

Rowan gave her a sad smile. “Thank you."

"What happened to you? What happened to your clothes?”

"I was attacked by someone who wouldn’t take no for an answer. When I defended myself, two guards came and tried to arrest me. To shame me."

Rowan was crying as she recalled what happened, the tears evaporating quickly from the embers of her anger.

Upon hearing what happened, Lochlan handed his cloak to Liadra so that she could drape it over Rowan’s shoulders. Then he left in the direction Rowan had come from in order to investigate the attack. Rowan could tell that he was trying to be considerate. She could also see a fire in his eyes. It was genuine. He wasn’t using his Gift. This was his true self and Rowan was seeing it for the first time. He was furious.

When he left, Rowan asked, “Can we go back to the inn, please? I need a bath.”

*****

Rowan didn't sleep that night. She dared not risk the nightmares. Not after everything that had happened. Instead, she shifted the furniture around in the living room to create a large open space where she danced with Elan Fiir until she could dance no more. Then she poured all the pain and sadness she was feeling into a hollow lament that she sang for everyone who was suffering.

Kickstarter Announcement!

I've just launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Audiobook and the Physical Release of Book 1: Awakening. We’ve got a bunch of exciting rewards available for the different Pledge Tiers, including copies of the book in all three available formats (digital, audio, and paperback). We will also be offering a limited number of Signed Premium Copies and a Cameo Character for the Final Tier.

As I’m sure you can imagine, I’m super excited for this campaign and I can’t wait to share it with you. I’m particularly excited for the Audiobook as Jessica, the narrator, has done an amazing job. She’s already finished her initial recording and I’m doing my beta listen of it. Not only has Jessica’s performance brought me to tears on multiple occasions, she has evoked all of the emotions I wanted to convey through my writing. I’ve been left breathless. I’ve blushed crimson. I’ve been amazed.

I also can’t wait to see the cover in my hands. Eva, my artist, did a phenomenal job.

The Kickstarter will run until 23:59 GMT on Wednesday 3rd January 2024.

Check out the link here.

Chapter 35: Homeward Bound

Rowan found the start of their grand adventure to be rather uneventful, partly because the reality of it all hadn't sunk in yet, but also because barely anyone did more than glance their way as they passed.

It made sense, of course. Lochlan and Liadra were trained to occupy the liminal space at the edge of people's senses, and Rowan was, at best, a rumour to most people outside the wealthy or the nobility. As for Seres, it was unlikely that anyone would expect the prodigal princess to be travelling with such a minimal escort. There was also the fact that the four of them were wearing relatively plain, even if exceptionally well-made, riding gear instead of any obvious finery.

Once they were outside the city, however, things started to get slightly more exciting as they worked on picking up the pace to help make up for lost time.

They initially tried for the slightly faster pacing of a trot, but Rowan struggled with the unfamiliar two-beat rhythm of her horse's gait.

It only took a little more than a mile for the inevitability of Rowan’s lack of experience to strike.

"Oww ow ow ow," she cried out as she landed on her side.

"Are you okay?" Seres asked. "That looked like it hurt."

"I'm fine," answered Rowan with a soft note of pain as she rolled back up, thankful that Elan Fiir was attached to the horse instead of her. On the flip side, said horse was now running away.

"Rubbing your shoulder like that isn't very convincing."

"I'm more concerned about the horse. Give me a second."

Without any more warning, Rowan bolted across the grasslands to catch her mount. Fortunately, she was more than a match for a horse in terms of speed. Ten leagues an hour? Easy. As she was, Rowan was pushing twelve. The downside was that she was significantly lacking in stamina, at least compared to a horse. Still, this was a sprint, not a marathon, and Rowan was able to catch up in no time.

"Easy, girl," she whispered in an attempt to calm the mare down.

Instead of letting Rowan stroke her, the mare reared her head and gave Rowan a toothy neigh followed by what could only be called the smuggest chortle in existence.

"Dinnae give me that," said Rowan with a hint of annoyance.

The horse, of course, had every intention of giving Rowan 'that' in the form of an extremely loud snort right in her face.

"What do you mean you want an apple?" Rowan wasn’t actually sure that's what she wanted, if anything, she just knew that horses apparently liked apples. From the horse's reaction, it seemed like a good guess as she nodded intently.

"I don't have any, but we have some nice tasty treats back with Seres and the other horses."

At the mention of treats, the horse was instantly off. If Rowan hadn't been holding onto the reins, it would have been another chase.

"Wait! I need to get on first. Please don't shake me off."

The horse just gave her a look that said, “That was entirely your fault and we both know it."

Rather than dignify her mount with a response, Rowan heaved herself into the saddle. Thankfully, the horse didn't do anything to make the endeavour any harder than it had to be. Not actively, at least. She just stood there, as if to emphasise her earlier point. The fact that she was significantly taller than Rowan was, of course, irrelevant.

Fortunately, Rowan's athleticism and flexibility were enough to get her mounted. Alas, mounting was only the first step. Once Rowan had both feet in the stirrups and her hand on the reins, the horse went from nothing to a full gallop within seconds. If she weren't an Ardent, Rowan would have been thrown off like a ragdoll.

Seres was laughing when Rowan finally regained control. To add insult to injury, the horse joined in, and Lochlan could barely contain himself. Only Liadra maintained her composure.

"I think she likes you," Seres giggled.

"She's a menace," Rowan huffed. "I'm half convinced that she's an Ardent in disguise."

"That would be something. Are you sure you can handle her? The stablemaster would have given you a mellower horse if you'd told him that it was your first time."

"It'll be fine," Rowan said, rolling her eyes. "Nami's just a little feisty, is all. Speaking of which, do you have any of those sugar cubes on you?"

"I do, yes."

Seres pulled out three brilliant white cubes of sugar from a small pouch at her waist. One was given to both Rowan’s feisty chestnut and Seres' graceful grey, along with the sturdy bay that served as their pack horse. Seres then offered a couple to Lochlan and Liadra for their own mounts. Nami was demanding another before she was even finished.

"You can have more later," Seres told her with a mischievous smile. "If you behave, that is."

Even from her saddle, Rowan could feel the indignance behind the look that Nami gave Seres.

"Are you sure she isn't an Ardent?" Rowan asked. "Horses shouldn't be this emotive."

"You're just being silly," Seres giggled.

"I'm not," Rowan protested.

“What would you call it then? We both know she was born with the Gift of Intelligence."

"More like sass,” Rowan muttered quietly before speaking up. “Why couldn’t it have been grace or vitality?"

"Are you sure you want to say that while you're on her back?"

"No," Rowan admitted, "it's just…"

Seres’ brow rose in mock curiosity at Rowan’s fading remark. "Oh?"

With a deflated sigh, Rowan said, “Nothing.”

There was no helping it. If anything, Nami was the perfect horse for Rowan and she couldn’t exactly begrudge her for having the one Gift that made her more intelligent than the average horse, especially as she had lacked the foresight to takeof taking riding lessons. Maybe if horses had as many potential Gifts as humans and the other humanoid races, she would have been more annoyed. Alas, they were limited to three, just like all the other non-sapient animals.

"Rowan?” Seres said with a measure of concern. “Are you okay? You're staring off into space."

"I was?"

"For a good minute," Liadra noted, seemingly out of nowhere.

"Well… I think I'm okay. I was just thinking."

"If you're sure,” Seres replied, the concern still clear on her face.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Shall we go? We still have a ways to go before we reach the first village.”

Rowan fell a few more times before accidentally encouraging Nami into a canter. It came as a surprise to everyone as Rowan adjusted to the new gait effortlessly. The fluidity of the three-beat measure of a canter felt so much more natural to Rowan as she found herself riding with Nami instead of against her. Well, not “against” per se, but she couldn't think of a better word to describe how it felt before.

When it became clear that Rowan wasn't going to fall, they fell into a canter for half an hour to make up for lost time before returning to a brisk walk for the rest of the day. The horses could probably have maintained the canter for longer, but they didn't want to push them more than necessary when walking would get them far enough.

*****

They continued to travel west by way of the road that ran alongside the Telma River. It had been years since Rowan had last travelled down this road, and it was just as beautiful and viridescent as she remembered. Even in winter, the gentle rolling grasslands were a lush green, and they had been painted with wildflowers. The picturesque scenery was further enhanced by the impressively white and fluffy clouds, one of which Rowan swore looked just like a Fenrabbit.

When the sun started setting on the first day, they were forced to make a decision on where they would be settling for the night. The safer option would have been to stop and set up camp while they still had sunlight, but Liadra's estimate of the nearest village only being three miles away had them taking a gamble.

When the village came into view, it was almost too close for comfort as the sun dipped below the Kærinsiir Mountains. Liadra had been off in her estimate, though fortunately only by a mile or so.

When they approached, Rowan came to the conclusion that calling it a village was rather generous. It was more of a hamlet, little more than a dozen or so buildings.

According to Seres, it had originally been settled in order to take advantage of a ford. The keyword there, of course, being ‘originally’ as the water was far too deep to wade across now, even at low tide. Had the ford survived, the village may have grown to be more noteworthy in size, but as they were, it was a miracle anyone still lived there.

Of course, with so few buildings, an Inn was out of the question. Granted, they weren’t really expecting one, especially as Lochlan and Liadra had already confirmed there wouldn't be any. Not that it mattered. Even without Lochlan working his magic or them identifying themselves, everyone offered their full hospitality and then some.

Alas, Seres refused to take advantage of their generosity, which led to Rowan offering a compromise. In exchange for silver link, one of the farmers granted them access to his barn, an assortment of blankets, and a freshly baked loaf of bread. Seres wanted to give him gold instead until Rowan reminded her it would be practically worthless to him. Even silver was pushing it, but they weren't exactly carrying much in the way of copper.

The barn ended up being surprisingly comfortable, especially as they had also been given permission to make beds out of the hay. Unfortunately, such comfort was not without cost as the hay became one with their hair as they slept; it took the better part of the next morning to brush out every last bit.

Meanwhile, Nami spent much of the morning munching smugly away at her breakfast, chortling whenever the girls hit a snag. The other horses, on the other hand, enjoyed their breakfasts in relative silence.

When they finally left, they took some time helping Rowan get the hang of trotting. Liadra ended up being a massive help in that regard, as she suggested a rising trot when they established the two-beat measure as the cause of Rowan’s difficulties. By rising and falling in the saddle, Rowan was able to finally match the rhythm of Nami's gait.

Alas, the rising trot was a lot more physically intensive than the alternative, and Rowan could feel the strain building in her legs with each passing mile. After two hours or so it reached the point of being too much for her to comfortably maintain.

“Do you want to continue?” Seres asked when she noticed Rowan stopping to massage her calf.

“I can keep going,” Rowan answered. “I just need a second.”

“We could stop for lunch,” Liadra suggested. “There's a hunter's lodge nearby in Dramlich Forest that caters to people on the road.”

Lochlan shook his head. It was an oddly subdued gesture from him. In stark contrast to Liadra, who had been surprisingly conversational for much of the ride, Lochlan had abandoned most of his theatrics in favour of a markedly quiet and serious persona. He channelled that persona as he questioned his cousin.

“Are you sure, Liadra? I know the place you're talking about, and it's a bit of a detour to get there.”

“It'll be fine,” Liadra answered. “Even if Rowan could keep going at our current pace, we probably wouldn't make it to Baromiir before nightfall, so we may as well play it safe.”

“A fair point,” Lochlan admitted.

“What do you think, Rowan?” Seres asked.

“It depends,” Rowan pondered. “Liadra is probably correct in assuming we won't make it to Baromiir today, not with how long it took us to get ready this morning.”

“Sorry about that,” Seres apologised meekly. Whilst everyone had woken up with an impromptu hay wig, she had been the worst offender on account of having the longest and the waviest hair out of everyone.

“You don’t need to apologise, silly. It's not your fault that your hair came loose while you slept.”

“But…”

“No buts! If our positions were reversed, you'd be telling me the exact same thing!”

“True.”

The response was barely audible, but Rowan saw a hint of a smile accompany it. Satisfied with her handling of the situation, Rowan then returned to the previous line of conversation.

“How much of a detour is it?” she asked both Lochlan and Liadra.

“A few miles,” Lochlan answered.

“It's still in the general direction of Baromiir, however,” Liadra clarified, “so we'd still be making progress.”

“In that case, I say we go for it,” Rowan declared, though a hint of a question remained as she turned towards Lochlan specifically. “That is, assuming the detour was your only objection.”

Lochlan nodded.

“Perfect! Let's go then. No more trotting, though. Even with the promise of a hot meal, I'd rather not push my legs if I don't need to.”

*****

A few hours after their detour to the lodge, Rowan and Seres decided to call it a day. They still had plenty of sunlight remaining, but it was their first time making camp, and they didn’t want to risk fumbling around in the dark.

Fortunately, it didn’t take them too long to find a suitable campsite; a small, well-sheltered glade from where one of the Telma River’s tributaries cut through Dramlich Forest. Their second order of business, the tents, however, proved to be an absolute nightmare. It didn’t help that Lochlan and Liadra made it look effortless when they assembled their own tent.

When an hour passed with the two girls making little progress, Lochlan sighed, his theatrical persona back in full. “My poor heart weeps, Liadra.”

“Should we help them?” Liadra asked.

“No!” Rowan and Seres cried. If they didn’t do it themselves, they wouldn’t learn.

It took another two hours for them to be done with the assembly. The moment they hooked the final guy line, both girls collapsed to the ground in a display of cathartic exhaustion.

"Tents have no right being so difficult," Seres huffed. “Don’t they know I’m a princess?”

“I don’t think they care, being tents and all,” Rowan opined between several heavy breaths.

“Well, maybe they should.”

“We’ll just need to show them who’s boss.”

“We need better instructions.”

“Are you sure we had the right ones?”

“I think so. I didn’t see any others when I went looking through our packs.”

“You’d think they’d give us something that didn’t read like it was made for an architect.”

"You can say that again."

Once they were done complaining, they just lay there for a while. At some point, Rowan felt a question growing inside of her.

"Hey, Seres?"

"Yeah?"

"I was wondering, why did you pack so many crystals?"

"Oh, that? Let me show you."

"Let you what now?"

Seres rolled her eyes sleepily. "Just watch," she said as she slowly rose to her feet and walked over to where they had thrown their packs. From inside one of them, she pulled out a rose-tinted crystal with veins of blue. Rowan recognised it as a Thermal Resonance Crystal, specifically a flame-bearing one.

"You see, most research into the Mark of the Goddess would suggest that it enhances the innate strength of one’s Gift. The reality is so much more."

To illustrate her point, Seres conjured a small flame, as if drawing it from deep within the crystal.

"How are you even?" Rowan started.

Seres let the flame dance across her palm and around her fingers in order to further highlight her ability before tossing it into the campfire.

"I can Resonate with crystals and channel their power. Being able to see the flow of Resonance with my Gift helps as well."

"There has to be a catch?" Rowas asked.

"It takes a lot of energy, and once I release my control, I can't regain it.”

“What do you mean?”

“Take the flame from before as an example. When I threw it into the campfire, I relinquished my control over it, and now I can’t do anything with it."

"Ah. How did I not know this was a thing?"

"Probably because we’re even rarer than Ardents or Stoics, and most of us don’t realise the full potential of the ability, so it isn’t exactly well documented.”

“I know that feeling. It was bad enough researching Ardents.”

“I can imagine. I think the Good Lords might have uncovered some of the research, though.”

“What makes you say that?”

“Fein. If you hadn’t made your deal with him, he’d probably have had it tortured out of me.”

"Well, I'd do it again and again if I had to."

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it. You gave me a reason to live, after all, to not give in. If anything, I should be thanking you. Now let's get cleaned up before I start crying."

“Right.”

*****

Rowan woke up screaming. She had dreamt of the eclipse in vivid detail, only every mistake, every moment of terror was punctuated by the touch of the Silent Sisters. Rowan's back roared in agony.

That was only the start of her torment, however, and it would not wake her. Not even reliving her mother's death was enough to grant her bitter release from the torment. No, true suffering and the climax of her despair came from seeing Tehri broken and on the verge of death. She had been too late. She had failed. There was nothing she could do other than hold onto Tehri as the light faded from her eyes.

It felt so real. The pain. The loss. All of it. Rowan's chest heaved as adrenaline continued to flood through her veins. She had to do something, and she had to do it fast before her emotions got the better of her.

Rowan rushed out of the tent with Elan Fiir, a belt of knives, a reflex bow, and a quiver full of arrows, practically her entire arsenal. The only thing she was missing from it was her short spear and buckler.

The chill of winter started assaulting her the moment she stepped outside. She didn’t care. It was nothing when compared to the icy grip of fear.

In her rush to vent off her rising terror, Rowan ran towards the edge of the clearing with Elan Fiir in hand. She was about to cut down a large silver pine when she stopped herself. The tree hadn’t done anything wrong. It didn’t deserve to suffer in her place. And even if it did, the risk of it falling on either tent was far too high.

Fortunately, the moment of pause helped stave off some of the more erratic ‘coping strategies’. Her fear and despair were still almost completely overwhelming her, however, and she needed to redirect them before they got any worse. Unfortunately, Elan Fiir was not part of a realistic solution, so she sheathed the blade and started stringing her bow instead.

The focus required to string the heavy reflex bow helped a little bit. Once it was fully strung, Rowan started loosing arrows on a nearby silver pine.

On the seventh arrow, Rowan heard movement from the tent. She snapped around with the bow, ready to shoot any trespassers in their tracks, only for Seres' head to pop out of the open flap.

When their eyes met, Seres stepped out of the tent towards Rowan. She was wearing a dressing gown for warmth.

"Are you okay?" she asked, "I heard you screaming."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you," Rowan replied quietly.

"What's wrong? You can tell me."

"I had a nightmare. A bad one."

"It must have been. What happened? I've never seen them make you scream like that."

"I saw Tehri broken and dying in my arms. I saw my failure."

Tears started to well in Rowan's eyes.

"You haven't failed."

"Then why hasn’t anyone seen her? It's been five years!"

The dams of her eyes gave way, and the waterworks began in earnest. Seres stepped in to give her a warm embrace.

"There, there, Rowan," Seres said softly, stroking Rowan's back. "We'll find her."

Rowan dropped the bow and hugged Seres back, crying loudly into her shoulder.

After a couple of minutes, the weight of Rowan's emotions brought them both to their knees. Even so, this was a much better way for Rowan to vent her feelings as opposed to aimless training.

Almost half an hour later, the tears finally stopped flowing. Rowan's eyes were raw, her throat coarse, and her nose red.

"I think I may have ruined your dressing gown," Rowan apologised with a rueful smile, looking down at the war zone of snot and tears on Seres' shoulder.

"Think nothing of it," Seres replied softly, "It'll wash."

"But…"

"No buts, Rowan. You needed that. I will ask, however, that we return to the tent. Now isn't the time to be training, the ground is hard as a rock, and you're cold to the touch. We can train together tomorrow if you want. You need to start teaching me, after all."

It took Seres pointing it out for Rowan to realise that, yes, she was, in fact, freezing. Barely moving while half-naked in the middle of a late autumn night didn't exactly do much to keep one warm, after all.

Rowan nodded her acceptance of Seres' request and picked the bow up as she clambered back to her feet. As Seres started to walk back to the camp, Rowan was quickly reminded that she was missing something.

"What about the arrows?" she asked.

"How many are out there?" Seres said, turning to give Rowan a contemplative look.

"Seven."

"That's too many to just abandon," Seres sighed.

Rowan nodded.

In response, Seres started walking off into the darkness with a confident smile.

"Let me help you find them," she called back confidently. "Two pairs of eyes are better than one."

"Um, Seres…"

"Yes?" Seres replied, turning back slightly.

While maintaining the most neutral expression that she could manage with her tear-ruined face, Rowan pointed in a completely different direction.

"The arrows are in the tree over there."

Chapter 34: Departure

There was something different about Rowan and Seres when they woke up the next morning. Seres could see it, and Rowan could feel it in her bones. They were sisters. The ritual had been a success.

Knowing that the Goddess had acknowledged their bond was a comfort to both of them. Together they would find the strength they'd most certainly need to tackle the road ahead.

It wouldn't be long until they took the next step. They had already packed everything they would need for the first leg of their impending journey. All that remained was for them to meet the two agents who would be joining them.

Once they were done with breakfast, Queen Elarin had the two girls join her in her private gardens. Shortly after, they were introduced to a rather statuesque woman with a stern expression and raven black hair that was highlighted with midnight blue. Beside her was a surprisingly average-looking gentleman with a mischievous grin and blonde hair that almost seemed to blush.

They were both very clearly human without even a hint of Ferran ancestry, nor did they have the incredibly rare hallmarks of a Kairosi or Miriel ancestor. Rowan also found the woman to be incredibly pretty with her dark and mysterious features, whereas the man was more on the cute side.

Out of the two of them, the man was the first to speak.

"Hold me, Liadra, I think I must be dying. There's no other explanation for the three rising beauties that I see before me." He then took to one knee and bowed dramatically before Seres. "Forgive me, Your Highness, for I have been brought low by your radiant visage, and I fear your most lovely companion will deliver the final blow.”

Rowan was having second thoughts about him being cute. If anything, he was a bit much. His partner seemed to agree as she slapped him curtly across the back of the head. He, of course, protested, but she just ignored him and spoke to Seres directly.

"Please forgive my partner, Your Highness. He's a fool who likes to think he's charming. I also ask that you forgive my own rudeness as well for not introducing myself sooner. My name is Liadra, Junior Lieutenant of Dusk, and this is Twilight Operator Lochlan."

Liadra then turned to greet Rowan. "You must be Flame Lady Rowan. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, and I look forward to working with you. Her Majesty has provided us…"

It looked like she wasn't going to be much fun based on the way she spoke.

"…so we have an idea of how we can best…"

Out of nowhere, Lochlan pointed dramatically in a seemingly random direction and practically shouted, "Liadra! Look, a mandra!"

Instead of taking it in her stride like Rowan expected, Liadra cried, "Where?" with girlish glee as her previous train of thought fizzled. When she realised that there wasn't an adorably fuzzy and incredibly dangerous bear-like animal in the room, Liadra turned crimson and tried to hide her embarrassment behind her hands.

"I'm so sorry," she practically cried. "Please forget that ever happened."

And just like that, Rowan's impression of Liadra did a complete two-seventy and a few random forty-fives. Lochlan, on the other hand, followed a less chaotic path in that the only thing he had subverted was his cute face.

It was at this point that Queen Elarin stepped in, having taken a backseat beforehand in order to watch the introductions play out organically. “As a Dusk Agent, Lieutenant Liadra specialises in covert protection details and threat resolution.”

“Meaning?” Rowan asked.

“I keep those I'm watching over safe, and I seek out threats in order to eliminate them before they are realised.”

“Like a bodyguard-assassin hybrid?” This time it was Seres asking the question.

“In a sense,” Liadra replied, “though we are typically less independent than you might expect of an assassin, and we prefer to deal with threats diplomatically if we can. In cases such as the raiders, we can be a lot more direct. One of my seniors, for example, was responsible for eliminating several members of their high command.”

“Impressive,” Rowan admitted, “but it doesn't really say much about your own abilities. Are you any good in combat? What weapons do you prefer? What can you do outside of combat?”

“You're right, sorry. Much of my experience is as a bodyguard. I was assigned to Princess Elia as she helped direct the crusade against the raiders, and I've spent the last two years working with Lochlan here to help investigate and eliminate the corrupt officials who obfuscated the severity of the raids.

“As for combat, I have standard military training as well as the more specialised training given to Dusk Agents. I prefer fighting solo or in small teams like this one, and I typically use short blades and razor shields up close or a bow at range. If need be, I'll also use paralytics and tranquillisers. As for outside of combat, I'm skilled at hunting and navigation. My Gift is that of the Predator."

"She's also great at finding great bars," Lochlan interrupted.

"Shut up, Lochlan!" Liadra cried in protest.

"I don't think I will. It's my time to talk. Before I tell you completely divine ladies about myself, there is one last thing that needs to be said about Liadra."

Liadra went from composed to visibly terrified when Lochlan said that, so Rowan just had to inquire. "Go on," she said.

"Well, if she ever volunteers to cook, don't let her."

"Why not?"

"Because every meal that she's ever made with me around has been impossibly bland."

"My food is jam-packed with nutrients, I'll have you know," Liadra objected.

"And I've had field rations that taste better."

The more Lochlan spoke, the harder it was for Rowan to get a read on him. Even so, he had managed to highlight one skill flawlessly, and that was his ability to get a rise out of Liadra. Thanks to him, Rowan was getting a reasonable idea of what Liadra was like deep down, and she knew that Seres was doing her own quiet analysis as well.

The back and forth between the two officers continued until Rowan was forced to interject. "This is all well and good, but we're getting sidetracked.”

Liadra stopped talking immediately, but Lochlan just sighed dramatically before apologising with a touch of panache. “Right, you are. You have my deepest apologies.”

Rowan doubted he was being entirely genuine with his apology, but it gave her something to help give focus to the conversation again. She didn't feel right being the ‘responsible conversationalist’. “You can apologise by telling us more about yourself and what you can do.”

“I'll see what I can do,” Lochlan replied, his mock sincerity bleeding through again. “As a Twilight Operator, I specialise in information, be it acquisition or taking advantage of it, and people. The two go hand in hand, really. Traditional combat isn't exactly my forte, unfortunately, but I do have the same basic military training that Liadra has. I've also done some supplemental self-defence training with a focus on hand-to-hand. You never know when a tavern brawl might break out, after all.

“Speaking of which, I can smooth any issues like that should they arise without the need to pull rank. It helps avoid too much attention, though I doubt that will be possible when we have an Ardent, a princess, and my dear cousin here.”

Rowan would never have guessed it from their appearance, but it made sense considering their interactions. Even with Liadra clearly trying her best to seem professional, they were far more familiar with each other than one might expect from mere colleagues.

Regardless, he had still only answered about half of Rowan’s questions, so she pushed him for the rest. “How about outside of combat or espionage? And what about your Gift? I might not have asked if Liadra hadn't offered hers earlier, and I'm sure you've already been briefed on mine and Seres’ Gifts.”

Queen Elarin nodded from just off to the side of the two agents in confirmation of Rowan’s assessment.

At the same time, Lochlan gave his final answer. "Well, I'm an excellent cook, and I can haggle most merchants to within an inch of their abacus. As for my Gift, I think that'd reveal a bit much, don't you think?"

Seres interjected almost immediately with a sardonic grin as she said, "He's a Cryptic."

Lochlan gave absolutely no hint that Seres' theory was correct, but the poorly veiled laugh from Liadra, along with all the context clues, was confirmation enough.

Now that Rowan had all the information she needed to make her assessment, she gave the two agents a sly grin of her own. “Thank you for your cooperation,” she smiled.

The two of them saluted in response before requesting permission to finish getting ready. Queen Elarin granted it immediately as she remarked, “I'm sure the girls have much to discuss. They'll meet you at the Royal Stables when they're ready.”

They saluted again, first to Queen Elarin and then to Rowan and Seres, before taking their leave. Queen Elarin followed them a moment later to give Rowan and Seres a chance to talk in private.

When they were alone, Seres spoke first.

“They were an odd pair, weren't they?”

“Truly. If your mother hadn't vouched for them and we were meeting them under different circumstances, I might have drawn my sword on Lochlan.”

“I'm not sure. You had your guard, which is probably why he felt so slippery. If I didn't recognise the Resonance of his Gift, I'd have been suspicious of him as well.”

“About that,” Rowan interjected.

“Yes?”

“You can see people's Gifts?”

Seres gave Rowan a pondering side pout as she considered the question. After a brief moment, she gave her answer.

“I can see the flow of Resonance from a person's Gift. With enough training, I can recognise the patterns whenever a Gift is utilised in order to identify it.  When it became clear I had a knack for my Gift from a young age, Mother decided it would be a good idea for me to learn the patterns of both Empaths and Cryptics.”

Rowan was amazed. She knew Seres was skilled with her Gift, but she hadn't really considered the possibilities. “Do you know any others?”

“Not really. I might have seen enough of your brother's Gift to identify it, but I'd need to see another Choir in action. Beyond that, by the time I considered expanding my horizon, the opportunity never really presented itself. Especially as it's not exactly something I want to advertise.”

“I can see that. How do you feel about travelling with Lochlan and Liadra?” It was a bit of a non-sequitur, but once again, ‘Lady Rowan of Conversational Focus’ was in the room, or in this case, the garden.

Seres answered quickly. “Better now that we've met them. I've been anxious about it ever since Mother mentioned it back on Tilwen.”

“I know you wanted it to be just the two of us, but it wasn't realistically going to happen.”

“It's not just that,” Seres responded solemnly.

“What do you mean?” Rowan asked cautiously.

“Last time I had an escort, they were slaughtered to the last. I thought maybe if we didn't have one this time, I wouldn’t need to worry about it happening again.”

“Oh, Seres,” Rowan said, taking her new sister into her arms. Tears started falling from Seres’ eyes as she cried into Rowan’s shoulder. They stayed like that for a short while until the tears finally stopped.

“I know they'll probably be fine if anything happens,” Seres sniffled once she was free of Rowan’s warm embrace.

“Nothing's going to happen. And even if something does happen, I'm sure they'll be ready for it. They're experienced, and your mother has faith in them.”

“I know,” Seres sniffled again.

“I know you know. So let's wipe away those tears and get moving. It's time for us to leave.”

Rowan was on her feet and she reached out to help Seres up. With Seres standing soon after, Rowan whipped out a handkerchief from one of Seres’ pockets in order to dab away her tears. Then they were off.

*****

Only an hour passed, and they were on the road to Næmyris by way of Feldran, the city beneath the Shattered Mountain. They were ready much earlier, but Queen Elarin had insisted on a lengthy goodbye with her daughter. If it had gone on any longer, they might never have left. Fortunately, Seres was able to pull away in spite of how hard it must have been at the time.

Now that they were on the road, however, it took a while for it to really sink in for Rowan. It was only as they passed through the Northwestern Gate of Midiris that reality caught up to her, and she was able to accept that it was finally happening.

She was going home.

Chapter 33: Family Ties

It had been just over a fortnight since Alena and the others left for Særis. By the end of this next week, Rowan and Seres would be leaving as well. All that remained were some final preparations, starting with an informal audience with Queen Elarin.

Seres was already there when Rowan arrived in the second of Queen Elarin's audience chambers that afternoon. She'd been practising with Elan Fiir when the messenger informed her that Elarin was done with her official responsibilities for the day and was thus making herself available for conversation.

Rowan could have gone straight there, of course; the Queen wouldn't be offended by a smattering of sweat and grime, especially in an informal setting. She had, after all, already seen Rowan at her worst. Rowan didn't care. She could be more than that. She was free, and with her freedom, she wanted to become the best version of herself. That included looking the part. As such, she took the time to make herself clean and presentable.

Fortunately, the messenger had returned to Queen Elarin to inform her of the delay, and she was more than content to wait. Her relaxed posture made it clear she wasn't in any particular hurry, though Rowan could see a seriousness hidden within her eyes.

Whatever the reason for the seriousness, however, she welcomed Rowan with a warm smile. “Take a seat, Rowan. Make yourself at home.”

Rowan obliged. Thanks to the more intimate feel of the second audience chamber, it wasn't exactly difficult. She sank into the sofa beside Seres, who was, in turn, just lounging there casually with a plate of cookies and a glass of milk. Once Rowan was sitting comfortably, Seres placed the selection of cookies between them so that they could share.

Elarin smiled again at the gesture before continuing on from where she left off with her welcome. “Thank you for coming, Rowan. I pray your training has been fruitful.”

“It has,” Rowan answered as she reached out for a cookie.

“Excellent. Seres tells me you're almost ready to leave.”

It took a moment for Rowan to respond as she was mid-bite, and she found herself in the awkward position of needing to chew. In any other situation, it would have been a simple task, but the awkwardness of needing to respond always had a way of practically tripling the amount of chewing required. Seres' giggling didn't help either. Fortunately, she was able to swallow without choking, even if it took far too long to get to that point.

Following the awkward and delectable endeavour of chewing, Rowan gave herself a second to breathe before giving her response. When she felt it was safe to do so, she nodded. “Tyris thinks I'm ready, so all we need to do now is pack.”

“And I imagine you are hoping to leave by the end of the week.”

“Sooner if we can. Two, maybe three days. Any later and we won't make it to Tærin City in time. If it wasn't Tyris’ birthday tomorrow, we might have been looking to leave already.”

Rowan saw a conflicted sadness flash across Elarin's face at the mention of her brother's birthday. It would have been barely noticeable had the queen's response not been delivered with uncharacteristic formality.

“I'm sure he will appreciate having you there. Were it not for your detour home, I'd have asked you to wait until after Seres’ birthday. Alas, I understand such delays keep you here until Spring, and I have no desire of keeping you from your father or your lover any longer than absolutely necessary.”

“And you already told me that you'd be making a state visit to Særis this Winter to help get King Dreigan up to speed,” Seres added.

Rowan giggled at Seres’ interjection and the way it cut through Queen Elarin's unexpected formality. She didn't begrudge Elarin wanting to see her daughter on her seventeenth birthday or wanting to celebrate it here in Midiris. It was an important day, one that would mark Seres becoming an adult, and it would normally be celebrated in much the same way her return was.

With that not being an option she was willing to pursue, she had clearly taken it upon herself to seek out an alternative solution, and a state visit was the perfect answer. Her last state visit had been a couple of years before Seres had been taken, so it was long overdue and King Dreigan did need to be informed of what was going on in his kingdom. Granted, his eldest daughter, Princess Yona, had already been given all of the key details, but it was as good an excuse as any.

When Elarin recovered from Seres’ remark, she returned to a more relaxed state. “Where were we?” she mumbled to herself. “Right, yes. I realise you probably want to leave as soon as possible after your brother's birthday.”

“The day after if we can.”

“Could I ask that you delay one more day?”

“Why is that?” Rowan asked, with Seres adding in a questioning look for punctuation.

Elarin held up two fingers. “I have a couple of reasons, the first being security. I know you're strong, Rowan. Strong enough to protect Seres and yourself from almost anything. It's why I named you Ardent Flame, but you can only do so much alone. With that in mind, I have picked out a couple of agents that I trust to accompany you, but I want you to meet them first.”

“Is that really necessary, Mother?” Seres asked.

“Yes. I know you wanted this journey to be just the two of you, but I can't risk losing you, again.”

“I agree with your mother, Seres,” Rowan admitted. “I'll want to make sure they are trustworthy myself, but I'll rest easier knowing someone has your back even when I don't.”

“Fine,” Seres almost harrumphed.

“If it makes you feel any better, they can be as unobtrusive as you need them to be. They can be a shadow or by your side.”

“When can we meet them?” Rowan asked.

“When you leave, so three days. They're returning from an operation today and will need time to rest after their debriefing, which is perfect as you'll be busy tomorrow.”

“What were they doing?” Seres asked.

“Investigating your disappearance and helping deal with corrupt officials up north that allowed raids to go on for as long as they did. I still damn myself every single day for not realising sooner. I was far too naive.”

“Stop beating yourself up, Mother. It wasn't your fault.”

“Seres is right. Whoever the Good Lords are, they know how to cover their tracks, and they have the resources to ensure those under them do the same. You cannae blame yourself for not knowing there was something to look out for.”

“Thank you. It means a lot to hear you both say that.”

“You don’t need to thank us.”

“But you can tell us the second reason for us delaying our departure.”

Elarin nodded. “Yes, of course.” She then turned to Rowan. “You have been like a sister to Seres, Rowan, and if you are both willing, I would have you be sisters in Resonance.”

Seres’ eyes opened wide. “You don’t mean…”

“I do. In two days, it will be a full moon, so the timing works.”

With that comment, Rowan started cottoning on to what they were getting at. “If you're suggesting what I think you're suggesting, wouldn't it cause issues?” she asked.

“It would be a private affair,” Elarin answered. “Strictly just the two of you. Legally there will be no change. In spirit, however, you will be sisters.”

“And we will be connected by a deeper Resonance than we are now,” Seres added.

It was becoming clear why Queen Elarin was advocating for them to take the rite. With a stronger Resonance between them, they would always be able to find their way back to each other. In time they might even be able to share their strength, though that would require a more advanced rite.

There was another reason that seemed likely as Rowan gave it more thought. Queen Elarin probably thought Rowan would be even more likely to keep Seres safe if they completed the rite. She'd be wrong, of course, as Rowan was already fully committed to keeping Seres safe, but peace of mind could be a powerful thing.

Whatever the reason, or reasons, Rowan fully intended to go through with the rite if Seres was willing. She had been the family Rowan needed when she had lost everything, and the inverse was equally true. Yes, they were regaining much of what they had lost, and they were gaining even more, but Rowan saw that as a reason for them becoming closer.

With her mind made up, Rowan turned to Seres. “If you're willing, so am I,” she said.

Tears welled up in Seres’ eyes, and before anyone could say anything, she half-leapt into Rowan’s arms. “Of course I'm willing,” she cried.

*****

Tyris’ birthday the next day was a small, private affair. Just him, Talia, Rowan, and Seres. His original plans of a fancy meal with Talia and a night out with his Navy friends had been postponed until later in the week once it was clear that Rowan would be there. Even before she had been taken, Tyris almost never got to spend his birthday with family on account of his position in the Navy. Things had obviously changed now that he was married, but he wasn’t about to pass on a chance he feared would never present itself.

They started with some light training; a nod to a near month-long tradition that was finally coming to an end. Tyris had already told Rowan that she had exceeded all of his expectations with how much progress she had made in the little time they had. At first, Rowan thought he was exaggerating with his praise, but Talia did her own assessment after the last training session to make sure it was doing its job in terms of helping Rowan’s body recover from years of abuse and neglect. When she also acknowledged her progress, Rowan knew it had to be true. A doctor was more believable than a doting older brother, after all.

After barely breaking a sweat with their final training session, they moved on to gift-giving. It was a novel reminder of Rowan’s least and most favourite birthday tradition. The giving and opening of presents was always fun and exciting, but needing to wait until the hour of your birth to start was hellish. At least it was for Rowan. She was born during the early evening. Tyris, on the other hand, like much of their family, was born significantly earlier; so much so that he never actually had to wait.

Fortunately, this wasn’t Rowan’s birthday, so her frustrations about needing to wait were largely irrelevant. Even if it was her birthday, she felt as if it wouldn’t be an issue. Five years in captivity kind of put everything into perspective, after all, and she had already been given the gift of freedom.

Either way, her birthday was a question for the future. They were here to celebrate Tyris taking another step towards becoming an old man. Talia was the first to give him a gift.

When Tyris revealed it, Rowan felt confused. It was a box. A fancy box, yes, but a box all the same. Yet Tyris seemed fascinated by it.

“What is it?” Rowan asked with a frown.

“It’s a Ru’eni Puzzle Box, dear sister!” Tyris exclaimed in response, his answer doing very little in the way of offering a halfway decent explanation.

“A what now?”

“A puzzle box. You open it by solving the puzzle.”

“And this one has something special inside,” Talia added, an ever so slightly provocative tone colouring her remark with luscious pink.

Tyris’ eyebrows rose at the implication. “Does it now?” he asked.

“Maybe wait until we’re gone before asking that!” Rowan said quickly before Talia could respond. It was a dangerous line of questioning, and she wanted no part of it.

Fortunately, Tyris quickly came to a similar realisation. “Sorry, I was caught in the moment,” he apologised.

“I’m sorry as well,” Talia added.

Rowan shook her head. “You don’t need to apologise! We just don’t need to hear about whatever kinky secrets might be hidden in that box.”

Tyris gave her a sly grin in return. “I guess I’ll also refrain from mentioning how you made yourself right at home when you first visited here with Alena.”

“Stop teasing your sister, Tyris,” Talia chided, but it was too late. Rowan had gone from alabaster to crimson in record time, and Seres was curious.

“I don’t think I’ve heard this one,” Seres remarked.

“Well,” Tyris started before stopping in his tracks. Talia had given him the “don’t you dare” look, and it proved incredibly effective. When he continued, any hint of teasing was gone. “If you want to hear the story, you’ll need to ask Rowan or Alena. It’s not my place to share, especially when one of the involved parties isn’t here.”

Thankfully, Seres didn’t push the issue, and Rowan was able to go from crimson to a much gentler rosy. She still had her face buried into a cushion to hide the majority of her lingering embarrassment, but it was something.

Tyris received a few more gifts from Talia as Rowan continued to regain her composure, including a couple that she was giving on behalf of another. When she was done, Seres stepped forward to offer a gift of her own. “I know we are only connected through our shared bond with Rowan, but I felt it only proper that I also got you a gift. Especially as you’ve been kind enough to invite me.”

“No need to be so modest, Seres. As you said when we first met, Rowan has practically been a sister to you these past five years, and I know you were there for her as well in that time. As far as I’m concerned, that makes you a part of the family. Maybe not in the conventional sense, but family all the same.”

“Thank you. It isn’t much, but I hope you like it.”

Seres presented him a model kit for a Midiran Sabre Class Frigate.

Tyris’ jaw dropped. “This is a mighty fine gift, Seres. Thank you.”

Seres blushed softly in response before continuing. “I also have a gift from my mother.”

“Oh?”

The gift from Queen Elarin caught practically everyone by surprise.

“I think these might be a bit small for me,” Tyris said with a slight chuckle as he held up a tiny pair of socks.

“They aren’t for you, per se,” Seres admitted. “When mother heard of Talia’s pregnancy, she claimed one of the best gifts you can give a parent-to-be is a selection of baby clothes and a good blanket, so here we are.”

“Tell her it’s very much appreciated,” Talia said.

“I will.”

When it was clear only one gift remained, Rowan felt three sets of eyes fall expectantly on her. Fortunately, she had recovered from her earlier embarrassment. Still, she handed over her gift for Tyris without a word. He opened it to reveal a simple dagger. Only then did she speak.

“You got me a dagger for my eleventh birthday. It helped me save Tehri’s life. With this blade, I promise to finish what I started. I will find Tehri and bring her back to us.”

“It’s perfect, Rowan. And I know you’ll find her. I have no doubts.”

*****

They spent the rest of the afternoon playing various board games. At one point, Seres asked Tyris a question that Rowan hadn't really considered before.

“Were you born during an eclipse, Tyris?”

“I was,” he admitted. “Why do you ask?”

“Because your age doesn't match your Gift. You should have the Gift of the Eagle, but Rowan says you have the Gift of the Choir, and I'm inclined to agree. An eclipse was the most logical reason, but I wanted to make sure.”

“Reasonable. And, Rowan is correct in saying I was Gifted with the Choir.”

The conversation drifted after that, and they returned to their games. By the time dinner rolled around, Rowan decided to bring up Queen Elarin's proposal.

“So, you know how you said you already considered Seres family on account of us being like sisters, Tyris?”

“Yes?” Tyris replied quizzically.

“Well, what I'm about to tell you is a secret that can't leave this room.”

“Okay?”

“Yesterday, Queen Elarin came to us with a proposal.”

“Get to the point already, Rowan.” She could practically feel the eye roll from the chiding Seres beside her.

“Fine! I just wanted to make sure they understood the gravitas of the situation.”

“They'll understand just fine without all the extra bells and whistles.”

Rowan was tempted to push the bit a little further, but she ultimately decided against it as it was rather unnecessary. Instead, she went straight to the point as Seres had strongly suggested. “Okay. So basically, in recognition of our sisterly bond, Queen Elarin proposed we form an actual blood tie through the Rite of Familial Resonance.”

“And you said yes, correct?” Tyris replied expectantly.

“We did,” Seres responded, answering for the both of them.

“Good, because otherwise I'd have been forced to bop Rowan on the head.”

“Hey!” Rowan protested.

“I'm just saying it how it is. You both survived long enough to escape because you had each other. It's only natural that you'd ask the Goddess to recognise your bond. If Queen Elarin is also giving you her blessings, you'd be foolish not to.”

“So you approve?”

“Of course I do. I know Mother would also approve. Family is precious, Rowan.”

A second or two later, Rina's voice echoed a similar sentiment within her soul.

“I also approve.”

*****

It was late the following night when Rowan, Seres, and Queen Elarin gathered in a part of the Dawn Wing Rowan had only ever seen from the outside; a private chapel to the Goddess atop one of the larger palace spires.

It was a beautiful place, with large, open windows and reinforced skylights to let in as much moonlight as possible. Queen Elarin or whoever else that tended to the chapel had filled it with a selection of lunar flowers.

With Queen Elarin's guidance, Rowan and Seres prepared themselves for the ritual. First, they changed into a pair of white silk dresses that could have been described as plain if they didn't have a distinct silvery sheen that was practically luminescent. Once changed, they ritually cleansed themselves in water from the chapel's moon-soaked basin. Finally, they arranged a selection of glowing lunar flowers from around the chapel into a ring large enough for the two of them.

When they were done, Queen Elarin handed them the obsidian ritual blade along with the silk it was wrapped in. Then she stepped back. This was Rowan's and Seres’ moment. She was just there to bear witness.

Knowing it was time, the two girls took their position in the ring of flowers. Face to face and bathed in the full light of Rowan'el, they knelt.

With near-perfect serenity, Rowan took the knife, letting the silk slide off between them. Then, the ritual began in earnest.

"In lunar witness, we stand together."

"With knife and heather."

At the end of the first two lines, Rowan touched the obsidian blade to her palms. She cut them without hesitation, her blood dripping onto the silk below. With Rowan now bleeding, Seres took the blade and wiped it clean on the silk before cutting her own palms.

The two girls then locked their bleeding palms together so that their blood could pass between them before continuing on with the ritual.

"To draw upon bonds of blood," Rowan started again.

"So that the familial flower might bloom."

"Spin the thread."

"And tie the knot."

"Together, we swear."

"On crimson and Azure."

"That Seres Talyren El Ria Lanafae."

"That Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir."

"Is family."

"A sister as true as any other."

"My sanguine bond."

To end the ritual, they ignited the silk that had been touched with their blood on one of the chapel braziers before casting the ashes to the wind so that it might reach the Goddess.

Chapter 32: A Short Goodbye

Rowan was up early. She needed to be ready before the tide so that she could say goodbye to Alena and the others. Part of her was still sad that they couldn't stay together longer, but the embers of passion were a constant reminder that Alena would still be with her in spirit. There was also another strange comfort Resonating from within as she belted on Elan Fiir that she couldn't explain. She chose not to dwell on the feeling, instead choosing to just accept it as a plus to her morning.

When she was ready, she stepped out of her bedroom to a light breakfast of jam and rich, buttery pastries waiting to be eaten. She was halfway through her meal when Seres announced herself with a mighty yawn.

“Morning,” she said sleepily.

“Morning,” Rowan replied. “I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“Noo-oho-o,” Seres yawned again.

“There’s still time before we need to leave if you want to get a wee bit more sleep.”

“No point. I’m already too awake.”

Whilst the barely cognisant princess wasn’t particularly convincing as she yawned and stumbled herself to a chair for breakfast, Rowan knew exactly what she meant. That is to say, she knew the feeling of not being able to get back to sleep due to your mind waking up before your body. Either way, breakfast would help her truly wake up.

*****

The two of them were greeted to the crisp chill of winter and sea spray as they stepped out of their carriage and on to the docks. Even with her thick, fur-lined coat, Rowan found herself shivering from the shock. She adjusted quickly, but those first few minutes were rather unpleasant. It didn’t help that they had to walk a short distance to where The Wind Rose was docked.

Alena was already there, as were the others. Rowan rushed ahead to embrace her as Seres took the much safer approach of walking and waving to everyone.

“Easy there, Rowan,” Alena chided. “I’m happy to see you too, but I don’t fancy going for a dip right now.”

The thought sent a chill down Rowan’s spine.

“Sorry,” she said, making sure to balance the both of them and prevent any unwanted momentum.

“It’s fine.”

“Well good! How much longer?”

“Fifteen minutes?” Ædarik answered.

“Fifteen? Seriously?”

Rowan was outraged. She was sure they had more time.

“I knew you’d get here in time,” Alena told her.

“That’s not the point!” Rowan protested.

“Isn’t it? Let’s not waste the time we have left being annoyed that we don’t have more of it.”

“You’re right,” Rowan sighed.

“I know,” Alena teased.

“Don’t congratulate yourself just yet! I’m not letting anyone leave until I’ve said my goodbyes!”

“Likewise,” Seres interjected. “Though I’m sure Captain Dralik will understand if we’re delayed.”

“I can go ahead and ask him?” Ædarik offered.

“No, you don’t!” Rowan forbade.

“Huh?”

“You’re first!”

“I’m what?”

“I need to start somewhere, so I’m saying goodbye to you first. Before I do that, however, I need to thank you for trying to rescue us back at the caves. After years of being told we were being forged into weapons for The Good Lords, meeting a lord who was genuinely a good person meant a lot to us, even if you did a terrible job and we ended up being the ones saving you. Maybe next time, try doing a smidge more preparation.”

"I was rather out of my depth, wasn't I?" Ædarik laughed loudly.

"More than a little," Rowan giggled.

“Well, I guess next time I’ll do better. And even if there isn’t a next time, I hope we can be true friends when you arrive in Særis.”

“We’re already friends, idiot.” She meant it as well. Maybe not true friends as he put it, but the potential was there. To drive the point home, she gave him a big farewell hug and added, "Good luck with Ashlin."

She could tell he was blushing at her encouragement.

Once Rowan had let him go, Seres gave him her own farewell hug.

"We really do owe you," she said. "Without your help, I don't know how we would have found our way home."

"I'm sure you'd have managed."

After Ædarik was Ashlin which ended with good luck, much like the previous one had. From the look that she gave Ædarik, it was clear that she felt like she didn't need any. She then surprised Rowan by saying she was a little curious about her and Alena with a tone that was almost flirtatious. Rowan wasn’t sure what to make of that.

Rowan's goodbye with Deilin was short and polite. They hadn't spent much time getting to know each other or becoming friends, so there wasn't really that much for them to say. Deilin did, at the very least, thank Rowan for encouraging her to come out of her shell the day before at Tyris’. It wasn't much, but it gave Rowan hope that they could become friends in Særis. Alas, such hopes were for the future. As such, Rowan chose to focus on the present instead of dwelling on what could be.

With that in mind, she rushed on to Davra. Like Deilin, she and Rowan hadn't interacted much, but Rowan felt they had a stronger connection on account of Davra's support and encouragement for Alena.

Davra smiled as Rowan approached. “You and Alena have been busy, haven't you?” she teased, her tone distinctly sultry.

“What’s that supposed to mean!” an abashed Rowan demanded, knowing full well what Davra was insinuating.

“I’m just saying you’re positively glowing, admittedly now with a rosy hue, and the improvements to your fitness and overall bearing can’t be fully ascribed to the training you’ve been doing with your brother, so it’s only logical to assume you’ve been enjoying certain carnal activities with your delightful girlfriend.”

Davra’s observation had Rowan’s rosy blush skipping a few shades to that of crushed rubies. “Th-tha-that’s…”

“You really are precious,” Davra laughed. “That blush of yours is adorable.”

The assertion only served to tie Rowan’s tongue further as she failed to offer any meaningful response. Fortunately, Davra wasn’t looking for a response just yet as she adopted a more sincere tone.

“Thank you for giving your heart to Alena. I was wary of you at first, but you have proven yourself to be much more than steel and thorns, and I’m sure that by the time we next meet, you will have grown into a vibrant rose.”

Davra’s sincerity helped to give Rowan the focus she needed to fend off her embarrassment and untie her tongue.

“I should be the one thanking you. Alena told me that you’re the one who encouraged her at the ball, and I know you’ve been supporting her this whole time.”

“What are friends for?”

“True. I hope we can be friends as well.”

“As far as I’m concerned, the seeds have already been planted. We just need to get to know each other better. When you get to Særis, Alena and I will show you and Seres around. For now, however, I won’t keep you. There are still people waiting to say goodbye.”

“Indeed.”

Rowan gave Davra a farewell hug, an act that seemingly caught Davra by surprise. A small win for Rowan after Davra’s earlier teasing. Fortunately, the win didn’t come at Davra’s expense as she returned the embrace and made it clear that her surprise wasn’t one of dismay.

When they parted, Rowan moved on to Maro. Their goodbye was a bittersweet ordeal, with very few words seemingly exchanged between them. Rather than talking, they spoke as Ardents, touching on the emotions of the other directly rather than relying on words. It was an intense experience for both of them, but it was the only way they could truly say what needed to be said with everything they had been through. They had both sacrificed much to escape, and language could only say so much.

Their farewell hug lingered as they finished their wordless exchange. When the time came for them to part, they promised to speak again when Rowan made her way to Særis or wherever Maro ended up.

“If I’m not in the city, I’ll make sure someone tells you where to find me,” Maro said tearfully.

“Just don’t go too far, or it might be a while before we see each other again,” Rowan replied through her own tears.

“I’ll try.”

Following Maro, Rowan landed on her penultimate farewell to Amran. Her exchange with Amran was surprisingly wordy.

"When we next see each other, you better be twice the Ardent you are now," he said.

"And you better have a fully articulated prosthetic foot," Rowan laughed.

"I think you're overestimating how quickly it will take to complete and calibrate a working foot."

"Right back at you."

"Point taken. Take care of yourself, Rowan. When you're done with everything you need to do here, I'll see you in Særis."

"Until then."

"Until then."

With that done, Rowan was left with one final goodbye. Before she could say anything, Alena wrapped her arms around Rowan as if she never wanted to let go.

"I'm going to miss you," she cried. "I know it’s only going to be a few months, and we’ve only been together a fraction of that time, but you’ve touched my heart in a way no one else has ever managed before. Your fire burns within me.”

Rowan hugged her back just as firmly.

"I'm already missing you, and you're not even gone."

"Well, we can stay like this a little while longer."

"There's so much I still want to do with you."

"At least we had a headstart with our big date."

"I can still feel your every touch from all the things we did that night."

“The embers still burn for me as well.”

“They will burn until we see each other again.”

“Where we will stoke the flames.”

“And make up for lost time.”

The two of them were in perfect sync, and they had transitioned from hugging to touching their foreheads gently together and holding each other’s hands. Their eyes were closed, and the world slipped away. They were the only people that mattered during this most serene of moments.

When the moment passed, they parted with a kiss, and Alena smiled. “Before we go,” she started, “I have something for you. A gift to help when you find yourself missing me.”

“You shouldn’t have…”

Alena held a finger to Rowan’s lips. “I wanted to. And don’t feel guilty for not getting anything for me. You can get me something from Næmyris.”

“I will.”

With Rowan’s promise, Alena went to collect the gift from Davra. When she returned with what appeared to be a fairly plain wooden box the size of a somewhat average shoebox, she was blushing.

“I know it doesn’t look particularly exciting from the outside, but it’s the inside that counts.”

“Can I open it?”

“Not here!” Alena responded, her blush deepening further. “No opening it until you get back to your room.”

Rowan nodded; she had no desire to make Alena overly embarrassed. Instead, she handed the box to Seres, who had already said all her goodbyes so that she could give Alena one last hug. “I’ll see you in Særis.”

“Not if I see you first,” Alena replied, hugging Rowan back.

When the time came, Rowan kissed Alena deeply with all her love. It was a promise that they would see each other again, that this wasn’t goodbye. Even so, her eyes were tear-filled, as were Alena’s.

“All aboard!”

Captain Dralik had given them their moment, but they could only delay so long. The couple lingered for a few more seconds before finally parting. Alena rushed up the gangplank. Her belongings had been loaded much earlier, and everyone else boarded when she was occupied with Rowan. The crew was also ready to leave.

All that remained was the Captain. Once he confirmed everyone else was ready, he turned to Rowan and Seres.

“The Wind Rose to leave port,” he announced loudly. “We’ll see you both in Tærin City a month from now for your voyage to the Azure City. Safe travels.”

“You too,” Rowan replied.

Seres nodded. “Favourable winds, Captain.”

Dralik half turned away before looking at Rowan. “Promise me you’ll keep the princess safe.”

“I will.”

“Thank you. I wish you the best in finding the rest of your family.”

With those final words, he left for his ship, and they were off.

The moment was over. There were no more goodbyes.

It was time to turn the page and take the next step.

Chapter 31: The Morning After

Rowan woke up, aching and euphoric, to the unexpected sound of birdsong. Her arm was draped happily over a purring Alena. Not wanting to wake her, she shifted slowly as she got out of bed, a task which proved challenging. Alena, and Rowan, to some extent, was a dynamic sleeper. Some would call her a restless sleeper, but there was an implication to 'restless' that Rowan couldn’t agree with; even with all her somnial animation, Alena was flirting with the other side when she slept.

While it didn't bother Rowan much while they were sleeping, the end result rendered the covers cowering in fear on the floor or twisted around them into something labyrinthine in nature. This time it was the latter, and it took Rowan a good ten minutes to untangle herself. Fortunately, Alena appeared to be mostly undisturbed by the kerfuffle, even as she rolled into the space Rowan had left behind.

Rowan’s first order of business was to collect the clothes that had been thrown off the night before. The simple change of clothes Avra had provided them after their adventurous carriage ride home made the task much simpler than it would have been with their dresses.

When Rowan opened the bedroom door, she felt two soft pillows push up against her back as Alena’s arms wrapped around her.

“I didn’t wake you, did I?” Rowan asked with a mix of concern and surprise. She could have sworn Alena was still in bed, but there was no mistaking the touch of her breasts, or the feeling of her arms around her.

“Nope,” Alena answered rather smugly, “I’ve been up for almost an hour?”

“Wait, what? How? I saw…”

“Me with my eyes closed? I was enjoying the moment. You’re adorable when you sleep, especially when you snuggle up against me.”

“Why didn’t you wake me?”

“Because I wanted to keep you close for just a little longer, and I knew you’d want to clean up after the mess we made.”

“Sorry.”

“You don’t need to apologise for wanting to be tidy.”

“But…”

“Don’t make me turn you around and kiss you into silence!”

Rather than give Alena the satisfaction, Rowan turned around and kissed Alena soundly. When they parted, Rowan asked, “Was that a threat or a promise?”

“Both,” Alena answered softly.

"I can do both," Rowan smiled. Alena had put an end to a potential downward spiral with one fell swoop, the remnants fading away into a pillow of fluffier emotions.

Alas, the innocence of the moment was ruined by the mischievous smirk that was growing on Alena's face, or more accurately, the response that followed.

"You can do both, can you?" she asked, somewhat suggestively.

"That's not what I meant!" Rowan protested, a touch of pink painting her alabaster cheeks.

"You aren't denying it," Alena teased.

"Well no, but…"

There was a hesitancy in Rowan's voice. Not because she thought Alena would have any issues with her sexuality, especially after she mentioned similar interests during their first night together, but rather because she wasn't sure if Alena was just teasing or if this was the first time it had come up and she was also curious.

Alena responded quickly to the hesitation, apologising for her behaviour. "Sorry, I shouldn't tease you about these things if you're not ready to talk about it."

"It's not that," Rowan assured her. "I'm just trying to recall if I've mentioned it before."

"I don't think you have?"

"Well, I guess now you know."

Alena’s mischievous smirk from before had softened into a smile. "I guess I do. Not that I'm complaining. Or surprised. And it does have some fun implications."

"Oh?"

"Well, you know?"

"Looking to expand already?" Now it was Rowan’s turn to do some teasing.

"Nooooo. I was just thinking it's nice that we have more potential overlap with our interests. In case we want to share?"

"So you're telling me no one else has caught your fancy?"

"No."

Rowan smiled, and Alena realised her mistake.

"I mean, yes. Well, kind of. There are other people I find attractive, but you're the only person I have feelings for at the moment."

"Oh? Tell me more?"

Alena was crimson with embarrassment at this point. When she failed to do much more than awkward stammering, Rowan delivered the final blow of her teasing.

"Would it help if I offered up a few examples of my own? I won't say names but one of the maids has a wild side, and she's a cutie to boot. You'd like her. Especially if you saw her doing what I did the morning of the ball."

Rowan then went on to give the impression that she was going to say more so that Alena could interrupt her. Quietly at first, she said, "The person you danced with before me at the ball was kinda cute. That is in spite of him making me feel seven different kinds of jealousy for dancing with you, and knowing I would have probably thrown a glass of wine in his face if Davra didn't push me to ask you for a dance."

Having been caught by surprise with Alena’s response, Rowan’s voice took on a more serious tone as she offered up her own reply.

"He was certainly attractive," Rowan admitted, "but I didn't feel the same connection with him that I did with you. After the escape, you were the first person I saw once I was lucid. Your face became a sign of safety and freedom. He didn't stand a chance. Not at the ball. It's going to take a fair bit for any potential new additions to our relationship to form the necessary bonds with either of us to become a part of this.

"With that said, we should probably table this discussion for now. I'm sorry for teasing you about this. It was poor form, especially with you already apologising for something similar."

"It's okay," Alena smiled softly. "I just wasn't expecting you to turn it back on me like that. And hearing you say that I became a sign of safety and freedom for you? I think my heart skipped a beat or three. "

A single loving tear rolled down Alena’s cheek, and Rowan leant in to kiss her. They held each other for a short while following the kiss until Rowan spoke up.

"We should probably get ready. I still have my training, and we haven't had breakfast yet."

"Yeah. But can I get another kiss first?"

"You most certainly can, but only one. We don't want to get distracted."

"You mean more distracted, right?"

"Sure," Rowan laughed.

An impatient Alena soon put her laughter to an end as she grabbed Rowan’s face and pulled her in for the promised kiss.

*****

Tyris' training hall was absolutely jam-packed that morning. Not only did Seres and Amran make an appearance, but Alena had also managed to rope in her friends, and Tyris was in his element. Whilst his Gift wasn't one of teaching per se, it helped him excel in group activities, and he had honed it over the years with his time in the navy.

They started with a basic warm-up before moving on to a standardised set of higher-intensity exercises. Tyris kept his focus on everyone, analysing their strengths and weaknesses so that when the time came, roughly an hour in, he could give them a more personalised routine.

For Rowan, it was more of the same. She welcomed the familiarity of her routine as it allowed her to shift some of her focus to what Tyris had the others doing. It was interesting to see how everyone’s routines differed. Deilin’s routine, for example, was focused on helping her be more confident in her movements, with Tyris suggesting she seek out a more specialised personal trainer when she returned to Særis. Davra, on the other hand, practically oozed confidence as she flexed her surprisingly fit body. Tyris had her doing weight training to complement her already balanced form.

Were it not for the fact that Alena was just across from Davra, Rowan might have found herself staring at the golden-haired beauty. Instead, her eyes were drawn to her radiant lover and the very distracting exercise she was in the middle of. Tyris had her working on squats, and Rowan was half convinced that his reasoning was twofold. Obviously, he wanted to help Alena by suggesting an exercise that would be beneficial for her, but she also expected him to capitalise on her wandering eyes to catch her off-balance. Alas, her suspicions proved to be her very literal downfall as she overcompensated for a surprise that never came after hearing him moving behind her.

She took a few moments after that to centre herself before returning to her own exercises.

Amran was largely left to his own devices. He was already doing everything Tyris would have suggested he do and more. Talia did step in to offer some advice, however. Her experience as a doctor proved useful for reminding him not to push too hard with his recovery, lest his stoic enthusiasm set him back further. The advice might have come across as unnecessary to the typical outside observer, but Rowan knew how frustrated Amran had been since his injury. She had seen it bubbling through his typically muted expressions and level tone; a reminder that Stoics weren’t emotionless.

In stark contrast to Amran when it came to outwardly showing their enthusiasm, was Ædarik. With his failure to be of much help during his intended rescue attempt back at the Caves, he was adamant he wouldn’t fail again, which apparently entailed wanting to do everything Tyris could throw at him. It took Tyris asking him to start with a simple balance exercise so that he could get everyone else started before giving Arik’s enthusiasm the due diligence it deserved.

Seres was tasked with cardio and endurance training. Rowan was concerned at first when Tyris suggested it as she thought it would have Seres running laps outside away from everyone else, but he had recently acquired a series of machines from the Engineering Department of the Azure University that were designed to simulate hiking, distance running, and rowing without the need to actually move. Rowan’s relief from the revelation that Seres would still be training with them was short-lived, however, as Tyris needed her help getting the heavy machines into position.

“Consider it a test of your progress,” he said, a massive grin painting his face.

Rowan glared at him balefully as she finished her set, making sure to get in her rest period before trundling over to help him. His grin fell quickly when they actually started moving the machines. They had to be careful not to damage anything, and the weight wasn’t helping.

Rowan groaned as they shifted the lightest of the machines into position. “How did you get these here in the first place?” she asked.

“They were unassembled, and I had a team of ferriers helping me.”

“And you didn’t think to assemble them here?”

“I knew that if I did that, there would be a rogue screw just waiting to be stepped on.”

The admission had everyone checking they weren’t at risk of a surprise podiatric impalement. When the momentary panic passed, Alena offered a solution for the remaining machines.

“You could use rollers. That way, you only need to lift it a short distance to and from whatever you use as a platform atop the rollers.”

The suggestion had Tyris slapping his face and Rowan running over to kiss her. “You’re a genius, Alena!”

“I’m sure you’d have figured it out eventually,” Alena applied, blushing at the show of affection in front of her friends.

“Don’t listen to her,” Davra laughed, “she’s just being modest.”

“It’s not like she’s studying Engineering, Architecture, History, or Cultural Anthropology at the Azure University,” Ædarik added.

“You didn’t need to list all of them,” Alena protested, her face getting redder by the second.

“If Landras was here, he’d say Arik was jealous of Alena for being smarter than him,” Deilin said softly.

“I’m still finding my calling!”

“Enough!”

The command was short and to the point. Tyris had channelled the very essence of a drill sergeant to put an end to the bantering before it got out of control or someone’s feelings got hurt. When everyone fell silent, he gave them a moment to simmer before speaking again.

“Let’s return to training, shall we? Ashlin, I’d like you to work on cardio and stamina with Seres. Ædarik, with me. We need to discuss how you wish to proceed with your training.”

Ædarik snapped to attention with a salute as if he were a navy cadet. No one said a thing out loud, but they all wordlessly agreed that in spite of his gusto, Arik had figuratively shat himself.

While Tyris popped in occasionally to make sure everyone was doing okay with their exercises, the two of them were gone for the better part of the morning. When they did return, everyone was exhausted and ready to cool down. That is to say, the women and Amran were all exhausted. Tyris and Ædarik, by comparison, were visibly refreshed and free of sweat.

Rowan could tell she wasn’t the only one mildly ticked off by the situation, though her reasoning was probably different than everyone else's. She knew Tyris was just planning to chat with Ædarik to help give him focus, and it made sense to use the situation as an excuse to bathe, but they could have taken Amran with them so he wouldn’t be forced to bathe alone. Fortunately, her feelings on the matter were addressed when it was revealed that Talia would be giving him a medicinal bath to help with his healing.

With the focus in the room shifting away from general annoyance at Tyris and Ædarik to bathing, however, Deilin started shifting about uncomfortably. “I’ll wait until you’re all done,” she almost whispered as everyone got ready to leave.

Not knowing why Deilin was hesitant, Rowan spoke up. “It’s fine. You needn’t worry. The bath’s big enough for all of us.” She was trying to speak softly as she got the impression that Deilin was scared of her.

Davra followed up on Rowan’s ignorance by adding, “We’d be happy to have you, Deilin. You’re safe with us.”

Ashlin, Alena, and Seres also welcomed Deilin to bathe with them.

She was still hesitating, but she agreed to go with them. When they continued to welcome her, even as they stripped and started cleaning themselves, she smiled, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

*****

Once everyone had finished bathing, they sat down for lunch and an hour or two of relaxation. As nice as it was, however, the time was fast approaching when Alena and her friends would need to leave so that they could finish packing. With Amran set to depart for Særis the next day, he also left with them.

Rowan and Seres decided to stay a while longer instead. They knew that leaving would be an open acknowledgement that it was almost time to say goodbye, and Rowan, at the very least, wasn’t ready yet. The warmth she still held from her date with Alena and the knowledge that it would only be a short farewell helped burn away the grim seeds of depression before they could germinate, but goodbyes were always hard.

They stayed until dinner. They could have stayed longer. They didn’t need to.

Rowan was ready.

And she wasn’t alone.

When they got back, Seres informed Avra and her mother that she would be staying with Rowan in the Sunfall apartments for the time being. A room was already prepared.

They then spent the rest of the evening playing Ruun and other games until Seres started to drift off. Rowan made sure to tuck her in before heading to bed herself.

A familiar song lulled her to sleep. A familiar voice.

♫Hush now, little one

the day is won

Sleep now, little one

The sun is gone

Mama’s here

to wash away your fear

Mama’s here

to wipe away your tears♫

Even as sleep took hold of Rowan, a single questioning word left her lips. “Ma?”

Sleep well, my darling girl.

Interlewd: A Night of Passion (NSFW)

The couple didn't waste any time tearing off each other's clothes after entering the carriage that would take them back to the palace. With the atmosphere of the Honey Peach Inn, any pretences of waiting quickly went out of the window.

Rowan kissed Alena deeply as a hand glided up her thigh. Were it not for being flung back into her seat as the carriage started moving, she would have traced her lips down to Alena’s neck.

Instead, Alena followed Rowan and the momentum of the carriage to straddle her lover passionately. She pulled Rowan’s hand up to her breast. Even through the slightly padded fabric of her dress, she felt every inch of the fondling caress that followed. Rowan knew full well that Alena responded nicely to a firm touch when it came to her breasts, and she was more than happy to oblige.

The resultant moans, however, were muffled as Alena nibbled away at Rowan’s collarbone. It didn’t matter. Rowan could tell she was hitting the mark by the irregularity of Alena’s nibbling. Still, she wanted to push Alena even further into the throes of passion. With her free hand, she grasped Alena’s ass and squeezed. When Alena pulled away in surprise, Rowan pulled her back by the front of her dress so that she could kiss, nibble, and suck on Alena’s neck. The hand that had groped Alena’s rear moved up her back so that Rowan could hold her closely as the other hand returned to Alena’s breast with clear intent. Alena, meanwhile, draped her arms around Rowan’s neck, moaning and panting softly as Rowan seized control.

Alena’s moans grew stronger with each passing moment.

"Please, Rowan, don't make me wait any longer. Rip the dress if you have to. I want to feel you. I crave your touch."

Wanton desire dripped from Alena's lips.

Taken aback by the assertiveness of Alena’s admission, Rowan asked for confirmation.

"Are you sure?"

"If you wait any longer, I won't hesitate to tear off your dress. I'll be forced to explore every inch of your body. I won't stop until…"

It was an alluring proposition, one that Alena would no doubt deliver on. In the meantime, Rowan fully intended to go above and beyond in fulfilling Alena’s request. Her desire wouldn't have it any other way.

She gripped the back of Alena’s dress with both hands and tore. Thanks to her emotionally charged strength, the fabric parted with a satisfying rip. She still wasn't done, however, as she continued to free the bodice from the skirts. Now the only fabric north of Alena’s waist was a camisole that provided ample access to the gift within.

Knowing exactly what she wanted to happen next, Alena reached up to grasp one of her breasts, exposing it in the process and rising to her knees as she did so. Rowan pulled her in with one hand as the other went to meet Alena’s at the breast. Now close enough to tickle Alena’s delicate skin with her breath, Rowan’s nose peeked under the camisole, nudging it upwards as she kissed in between Alena’s breasts.

Rowan’s lips danced up and around to Alena’s other breast, kissing every step of the way. When she reached the proudly erect nipple, Rowan nipped at it playfully, catching it gently between her teeth. A welcome moan escaped Alena’s lips.

Whilst pleased at the reaction, Rowan was careful not to hurt Alena as she transitioned to sucking on the nipple. At the same time, Alena went on to release her other breast in order to give Rowan more direct control of her pleasure.

Rowan continued to fondle away, giving equal love to both of Alena’s breasts. Alena’s moans, in turn, continued to grow louder and louder, caring little as their carriage paused at the gate to the Palace District. If anything, the prospect of a guard checking in on them added to the excitement.

Upon hearing the sound of footsteps approaching them, Rowan ramped up the intensity of her groping whilst circling the other nipple with her tongue. The footsteps fell silent as Alena’s moans reached a crescendo, only for them to retreat a moment later. It didn’t take long after that for the carriage to start moving or for Alena to take hold of Rowan’s hair. She pulled Rowan’s head back and kissed her fiercely.

Rowan felt Alena’s tongue invade her mouth, hunting for passion. With her defences down, Rowan welcomed the incursion. Once she regained a flicker of composure, she started offering some playful resistance, but it was clear that Alena had the upper hand. Her only reprieve came when Alena pulled away to take a breath. When the time came, however, Alena didn’t return to her siege of Rowan’s lips. Instead, she took her hands to the front of Rowan’s dress as she tried to rip it open with great effort and enthusiasm. Unlike Rowan, she lacked the strength to tear the fabric in one fell swoop, but that didn’t stop her from putting her all into it.

Alena beamed when she finally made some headway on the dress. She could have saved a good amount of time just removing the dress the ‘old-fashioned way’, but this was something primal, a Resonance between two Lovers that raged like a conflagration of love and desire. As with the date that led to this moment, both women were determined to leave a lasting impression. They were making up for lost time that had not yet passed, and they yearned to burn the whole experience into the soul of their lover.

Now sitting on Rowan’s lap again, Alena reached into the ruined dress to grab her by the waist before passionately kissing the length of Rowan’s neck. Upon reaching the place where the slope of Rowan’s neck started flowing into her shoulder, Alena went from kissing it intently to feasting on the athletically muscled flesh before her.

There was some pain at first, but Rowan found herself enjoying the sensation of Alena biting into her. Even as two sharp, catlike fangs penetrated her skin, Rowan knew that Alena wouldn’t even think of seriously hurting her; not without reason. Her trust was well placed as Alena regulated the intensity of her feasting to ensure she didn’t bite too deeply, though she was emboldened by Rowan’s moans.

The hands that gripped Rowan’s waist shifted slightly in order to make their way to her breasts. Alena could feel the firmness of Rowan’s core as she felt her way northwards, the rest of her focus still on Rowan’s neck. Muscled abs soon transitioned into the slender hint of a ribcage. They were less prominent than they had been during their first night together, but still noticeable. If Alena wasn’t fangs-deep into Rowan’s neck, she would have smiled at the progress Rowan was making with her recovery. It was a testament to her strength, and a clear sign of her survival against hellish odds, which only made her more beautiful.

Alas, there was another aspect of Rowan’s beauty that Alena desired. She ventured further north until the purlicue of her hands were cupping Rowan’s delightfully perky breasts. Her fingers continued to swing around until she had two handfuls of Rowan’s extremely enticing, albeit surprising, softness. In contrast to her rather intense approach to Rowan’s neck, or the fire with which Rowan had groped and fondled her earlier, Alena started by gently massaging Rowan’s breasts. She was a wee bit more sensitive than Alena was, and they had discovered early on that she typically liked it more when Alena took her on her journey of rising intensity when it came to her breasts.

The first sign that Rowan was ready for the next phase of the journey came as her moans started to grow softer. Before they faded too much, however, Alena started introducing some nipple play into her massage. A gentle caress here. A light pinch there. It didn’t take long for Rowan to want more, and Alena gleefully obliged.

“Just like that,” Rowan moaned loudly as the combined sensation of Alena’s biting and groping almost pushed her to orgasm. Wanting to return the favour, she reached underneath Alena’s skirt in search of her lush sex. Her underwear was already completely soaked through by the time Rowan found it, but there was also no easy way of removing them, so she pushed them aside to gain access. There wasn’t even a hint of resistance as Rowan’s fingers made their way inside Alena. If anything, the warmth of Alena’s vagina seemed to crave them.

With Rowan upping the ante, however, Alena had no choice but to do the same. Any semblance of the gentle massage she had started with was gone, and introduced her tongue into the mix with her biting of Rowan’s neck. They had entered an arms race of pleasure.

Alena climaxed first. The introduction of Rowan’s thumb playing with her clit was enough to push her over the edge. She quivered in ecstasy and accidentally clamped down on her feast of Rowan’s neck.

With the satisfaction of bringing Alena to climax alongside the intense fondling of her breasts and the unexpected pleasure that rose from the pain of Alena biting her so intently, it didn’t take much longer for Rowan to also reach her peak.

They were both panting heavily by the time their orgasms started to fade. Alena had a little bit of Rowan’s blood rolling off her lip. Rowan could feel more rolling down her back from the two small puncture marks. Part of her knew that it should bother her, but it didn’t. It also didn’t stop her from kissing Alena, this time with a more romantic pacing and intensity; lots of nose booping and staring lovingly into each other’s eyes.

The carriage came to a halt as Rowan and Alena basked in the other’s embrace and they were pulled out of the moment by a knocking on the carriage door.

“If you are finished, ladies, please collect these clothes from me and get changed before leaving the carriage.”

It was Avra, and she spoke with a level-headedness that would put a Stoic to shame were it not for the notes of confidence and pride in her voice. Rowan wasn’t exactly surprised that Avra was here to greet them, but she was also slightly unnerved by the implication that Avra knew they would need a change of clothes. At the same time, she didn’t want to keep the maid waiting.

As Alena was the one straddling Rowan, she tried to head over to the door, but her legs were a little weak from the last traces of her orgasm. Rather than try and maneuver around her, Rowan just asked, “Could you leave them just inside the door please, Avra?”

A few moments later, the door opened just enough for Avra to place the clothes inside. Rowan also noticed that a privacy screen had been erected beforehand to make sure no one looked inside the carriage.

The clothes Avra provided them were fairly simple in their design. Long tunics and fresh underwear for the most part, which was fortunate as it probably meant they weren’t about to be summoned to see the queen.

“What should we do about the clothes we were already wearing?” Rowan asked after getting changed.

“I have a team of maids ready and waiting to handle your belongings. They will also make sure the carriage is fully cleaned.”

Reasonably content with the answer, Rowan helped Alena out of the carriage before leaving herself. As promised, a team of four maids waited alongside Avra. Rowan recognised one of them. It was Avalin, the maid Rowan had accidentally spied having sex in the days leading up to the ball. She also saw the carriage driver being seen to by one of the palace healers. From the way he was blushing, Rowan hoped he was okay.

Avra motioned the other maids into action before beckoning the couple to follow her back to Rowan’s quarters. The route was direct and to the point. There wasn’t any question of Alena returning to her own residence. Avra clearly knew that wasn’t even a consideration. Once they were situated, Avra bade them goodnight and left them to their own devices. Their first port of call was to get a bath. After that? Their night of passion was only just beginning.

Chapter 30: Together

Rowan and Alena found a carriage ready to take them to the next location for their date, an Adventure Room. They were an unfamiliar concept to Rowan, but Seres had insisted on their growing popularity before her capture. Of course, in doing so, she neglected to tell Rowan what they actually were beyond the vaguest of hints.

Unfortunately for Rowan, vague hints only added to her feeling of relative ignorance, a feeling that made her slightly apprehensive. Had she been completely blind to what was coming, it wouldn't have been so bad, but she had just enough to speculate, and her imagination could be her own worst enemy at times.

Alena, on the other hand, despite being similarly in the dark, was bounding with excitement. For her, the mystery of it all was like catnip. By the time they arrived, she could barely contain her feline curiosity.

Next to Rowan’s muted apprehension, one might mistake her for the Ardent. When they actually stepped outside of the carriage, however, Rowan was caught completely off-guard by the large warehouse of a building that stood before them.

It was almost completely unadorned bar the elaborate mural that spoke of grand adventure; majestic foothills leading into picturesque flower fields, primordial forests, and a magical arch surrounding the entrance.

Rowan couldn’t help but find herself intrigued. She was drawn to the arch, as if it was a portal to a different realm. Hand in hand with Alena, she walked towards it, tentatively at first, then speeding up to appease Alena’s enthusiastic urging.

Once inside, they were greeted by an idyllic grove and three strange individuals who swept into action.

Amongst them, a squirrely woman fidgeted over a spilled kettle. "Visitors?" she asked.

"Nay," a hooved gentleman replied, "I think not."

"Maybe they're lost?" the squirrely woman asked again as worry appeared in her puffy cheeks.

This time, it was the third individual who answered her. "From their clothes, I would assume so." He was a bear of a man, and his voice rumbled like distant thunder.

"They must have travelled far," the hooved man opined.

"Truly."

A confused Rowan tried to interject, but Alena nudged her to be silent. Then, as if on cue, two more individuals walked into the scene; a child with a venerable air and an ageless wisdom in their eyes, followed by a mousey man whose nose seemed to twitch nervously with every step.

"I'm disappointed," the child said, her head shaking with aeons of disapproval.

"Milady, we were just…"

"Quiet, Sikwendi!" the child demanded of the hooved gentleman, who immediately retreated behind the bear man. "We have guests, and rather than introduce yourselves, you seem intent on questioning their validity and making assumptions."

After reprimanding the original three, the child turned to Rowan and Alena. "Please forgive my companions for their rudeness." She punctuated her request with a polite bowing of her head.

"There's nothing to forgive," Rowan replied, her voice cracking nervously as confusion still caressed her thoughts.

"You are most gracious," the child smiled. "I am Eldarin, Watcher of the Forgotten Grove, and they are my aides and companions. May I ask your names and what brings you to my humble abode? Are you adventurers?"

"I'm Rowan, and this is…"

"Alena! And we are indeed on a grand adventure."

"Is that so? Then maybe you are the brave souls we have been waiting for? Adventurer Rowan, Adventurer Alena, I have a request."

"Pray tell!" Alena practically shouted. Rowan didn't even have time to open her mouth.

"A great foe threatens the land, and I can't abandon the Forgotten Grove. I ask that ye brave adventurers go in my stead to vanquish the enemy."

"We will," Rowan replied, her brain finally catching up with what was going on.

"Thank you. Rodin here will help guide you to the Dark Ruins of Eskador." Eldarin motioned to the mousey man who had followed her in.

He sniffled nervously and bowed. "Rodin at your service."

*****

The Adventure Room lived up to its name, at least in part. It was as if they had been thrown into the middle of a novel and they were the brave heroes destined to save the world. Every moment was a performance. Every action supported the narrative. Even the entry fee played into the experience, as they were made to pay a ferryman to reach the ruins.

Where the name fell short, however, was in how it completely failed to convey the scale of the whole thing. By the time they reached the end of their adventure, Rowan had been turned around countless times. So much so that she could hardly believe it when they stepped outside of the same building they had entered or that only four or so hours had passed.

"How do you think they did it?" Alena asked enthusiastically as they closed off the second phase of their date with some clothes shopping. They needed a change of clothes for the final phase of their date.

They had passed on the carriage in order to give themselves some respite from enclosed spaces.

"I've been wondering that myself," Rowan answered, a whimsical smile further speaking of awe-filled wonderment. "They definitely used different levels for the various sets."

"Well, yeah," Alena rolled her eyes, "I'm pretty sure we climbed the equivalent of a large hill by the end of it."

"Considering the Underking's lair was supposedly carved out of a mountain peak, I would hope so," Rowan laughed.

Alena stuck her tongue out at Rowan and pouted.

"Are you trying to be cute?” Rowan asked.

"Yes. No! Maybe?"

Rowan squeezed her hand. "I think I'm rubbing off on you."

"If you mean how I immediately saw the double entendre in what you just said, possibly. If you didn't? I've always been occasionally like this."

A delicate rose painted Rowan’s cheek as she was made aware of her own innuendo and the realisation that there was a hidden truth to Alena’s words. It was almost too easy to recognise innuendo in others, be it intentional or not, but recognising your own unintentional slips without aid? Well, sometimes ignorance is bliss.

Alena smiled. "Now you're the one being cute."

"No, you."

Rowan had given up on making an articulate response before she had even began, but even she was impressed by the unabashed awkwardness of her attempt at a charming reversal. Rather than laugh at her like Rowan half-expected, Alena instead kissed her cheek.

"I like it when you fumble around," Alena whispered. "I love that you feel safe enough to be a little foolish around me."

Rowan hadn't considered that angle, but it was true, emotions like fear and anticipation tended to mitigate the more foolish aspects of her personality, especially when she felt like she was in danger. There were exceptions, of course, but the emotional cocktails that inspired them were risky in their own right.

"I could kiss you right now," Rowan whispered back to Alena.

"Maybe when we're not in the middle of a major thoroughfare," Alena responded with a slight giggle.

Noticing the unimpressed onlookers, Rowan tightened her grip on Alena’s hand, and they picked up the pace. It didn’t take much longer for them to find a seamstress with the right style and sizing.

A bored young woman greeted them from the counter when they entered the showroom.

"Welcome to The Golden Thimble. How may I be of service?"

"Hello," Alena smiled. "We have found ourselves a spot underdressed for our dinner plans and are in need of some dresses. Perhaps you can point us in the right direction?"

The woman wore both confusion and curiosity on her face as she looked at the couple. "Let me just…"

Alena stopped her as she started turning away from them. "We'll also need our current clothes returned to the palace."

"Do you have any styles in mind?" the woman asked, snapping back immediately. She was notably more animated now.

"There were a couple from amongst the ones you have on display, though I'm sure I can trust your judgement."

"Of course! I could even make some quick adjustments if needed."

"Will that really be necessary?" Rowan asked.

Alena put forth a nearly flawless facade as she turned to Rowan, though it was clear from the slight upward turn to her lips that she was plotting and having fun in doing so. "You know just as much as I, how important a good fit is, Rowan."

Rowan rolled her eyes, thankfully whilst the seamstress was turned away. She was inclined to agree, but the items on display, whilst very good, were not at a level where she felt the young woman would be able to make a meaningful difference in the time they had. Still, she was not about to deny her partner her fun.

"Fine. I shall defer to your better judgement."

Alena flashed a grin. "As you should."

They then went on to show the seamstress the styles that interested them before being taken to a measuring room. The woman saw to them with a level of skill and efficiency that caught Rowan completely off-guard. By the time she was finished, their new dresses not only fit them perfectly, but they had been personalised to the point of being unrecognisable from the originals, and not in a bad way.

"Wow," Rowan breathed as she admired herself in the mirror. "How did…:

A louder, almost volcanic voice echoed into the room from the direction of the showroom. "Namira!"

The young woman's face dropped.

"Shit."

"You can go," Alena told her. "You'll find payment with our other clothes along with a list of people who might appreciate your skills."

"Thank you."

"Namira!"

"I should really go."

Alena nodded. "We won't keep you. Shall we, Rowan?"

"Yes?" Rowan answered as Alena proffered a hand.

With a smile, Alena stepped in beside her, taking Rowan’s hand in her own. They exited the same way the woman had, though they carried on to leave the shop proper. She was being berated by an older woman as they left.

"Are you going to tell me what that was about?" Rowan asked, having paused just outside the shop.

"Nope," Alena smiled mischievously.

"Well, you clearly saw something I didn't."

"Perhaps. Or maybe it was a lucky guess?"

"I seriously doubt that," Rowan said dryly.

"And why is that?"

"You don’t strike me as a risk taker."

"I took a chance with you, didn't I?" Alena protested.

Rowan gave Alena a wry smile. "Well, I'm clearly the correct choice and not at all risk-prone."She could see the cogs turning as it became clear she was pulling Alena’s leg.

Alena pouted in mock outrage. "You're incorrigible!"

"I prefer to think of myself as mercurial."

"Why not both?"

"They are somewhat contradictory."

"I'm sure you'll find a way."

"Challenge accepted."

*****

They passed several restaurants in their search for the ideal spot, but each one fell short. Most were just too busy for their liking, whilst others felt like they catered to different tastes. Eventually, however, they found one that seemed to resonate amidst the competition.

Elen Del Riin.

Rowan didn't recognise the name. It wasn't Midiran, Særan, or Ferran, and it seemed far too fluid to be one of the other Talrasian languages. From the pondering frown, Alena was similarly lost on the name.

"We could ask?" Rowan whispered as they made their way to the entrance.

"I don't want to come across as uncultured," Alena whispered back.

"Then we should probably compose ourselves."

"Agreed."

The outside of the restaurant was sleek and modest in a way that oozed class and the interior capitalised on an alluring use of white and black marble. All the lighting appeared to be Resonance Crystal based as well. Not wanting to be caught off-guard by the eventual cost, Rowan started formulating an estimation.

They were greeted by a smartly dressed gentleman standing at what looked like a lectern. Behind him on his left was a pair of open double doors that led into the restaurant proper, and on his right was the same buy leading into a bar.

"Name, seal, or signet," the gentleman stated as they approached.

"Excuse me," Rowan replied.

"Name, seal, or signet," the gentleman repeated.

Alena presented her signet ring, and Rowan hesitated for a moment before remembering the Seal of the Ardent Flame. The gentleman was scrolling through a small book as Rowan collected the seal from her purse.

"It would seem this signet isn't registered," the man said, looking up. He then turned to Rowan.

"Perhaps…"

His eyes lit up in recognition when he saw the Seal of the Ardent Flame.

"Yes, that will do. We shall have a table prepared post haste, though we do require a deposit of ten gold loops first. If you would like to wait in the bar, someone will come find you when it is ready.”

"A table for two?" They had been interrupted by a sharply dressed waiter with a tailored waistcoat and a pencil moustache that had been groomed to a heartstopping point.

"Yes!" Rowan answered quickly.

"Capital. My name is Veiruun Deimund, and I shall be your host for this evening. If you would follow me."

The host led them with a grace and fluidity that inspired envy in dancers like Rowan. Even the way he adjusted his stride to match their notably smaller statures was effortless. Rowan almost found herself getting lost in his wake. She dared not fall into a trance, however.

Alena, on the other hand, had no such reservations as her eyes lost focus. She was so mesmerised that Rowan had to stop her as they approached their table before Veiruun noticed.

"Your table, madames," Veiruun announced. They had been given a private alcove in the restaurant's garden. Despite it being almost winter, it was surprisingly warm and comforting, like a lover's embrace.

"Where is the heat coming from?" Alena asked. "I don't see a fire."

"We have a series of adjustable Heat Crystal Arrays providing warmth through the floor."

Rowan had to stop her jaw from dropping as Veiruun's explanation made her realise how exceptionally expensive the restaurant was going to be if it could afford such an installation. She immediately doubled her initial prediction to help mitigate the eventual blindsiding.

"You can rest easy, madame," Veiruun told Rowan.

"Huh?"

"All we require from you today is the deposit you paid upon entering this establishment."

He's a mind reader!

"It was written all over your face, Rowan."

"Oh." She had once again been betrayed by the honesty of body language. Rather than dwell on the matter, however, she turned to the question it had created. "How do you make money then?" It was blunter than she'd have liked, but she couldn't think of a better way of phrasing it.

"With the exception of present company, our clientèle are all returning or have been introduced by another customer. We send them the invoice at a later date, and if they don't pay, the invoice is sent to the one who introduces them. Continued failure is met with blacklisting for the individual and their associates. We find the social contract keeps people honest."

"But we're the exception?" Alena asked.

"Of a sort. The Ardent Flame is the talk of the town, and the madame's seal was the final piece in helping my colleague realise your identities. We have no doubt the crown is good for any expenses you muster. Now would you like to see our taster menus, or would you rather trust the chef's intuition with the tailored spread?

"What does that entail?" Alena asked.

"Through the skilled application of their Gift, the chef would craft a small banquet for your personalised enjoyment. You have already told them everything they need to know for them to start formulating a menu."

"How?" Rowan asked. "We haven't spoken to them, have we? Or is it actually you?"

"They made their observations while you sat at the bar and later when I led you to this table."

"Impressive," Alena replied.

"Normally, they would also introduce themselves, but they are, unfortunately, a particularly luminous Miriel."

Rowan’s brows rose inquisitively, her curiosity piqued. She had to ask. "They wouldn't happen to be the owner, would they?"

"A sound observation, madame. They are indeed."

"Well, they have my challenge, then. I'll have the tailored spread," Rowan decided.

"As will I," Alena added.

"Capital," Veiruun replied. "As for refreshments, each dish will be paired with a complementary beverage, and freshly chilled water will be available whenever you desire it."

"Can we also order drinks separately?" Rowan asked.

"Of course," Veiruun answered. "Do you wish to see the menu?"

The couple gave their affirmation in near unison, and Veiruun bowed. "Then if you'll excuse me, I shall inform the chef of your request before returning with the menu."

*****

They decided to forgo drinks after a brief perusal of the menu. There were too many options, and Rowan lacked the experience to know how one wine differed from another or if it mattered how long whiskey had been aged for.

Even Alena was at a loss. She had many of the answers that Rowan was missing, but she had never gone out of her way to learn all the top names. The exception being the name of a wine made by a somewhat famous vintner with ties to her family.

The two also realised that there was a very real possibility that they could order something that'd clash with their meal; an unfortunate side effect of not knowing what was being prepared.

When they informed Veiruun a short while later, they could tell they had made the right decision. Even with his mask of professionalism, they could see the approving smile on the edge of his lips.

He left with the drinks menu afterward to give them some privacy as they waited for the first dish to arrive. Both of them were optimistically curious about the promise that awaited them.

It helped that, unlike with the Adventure Room, the veil of ignorance wasn't a deterrent for Rowan. She knew exactly what she was getting herself into this time, after all, even if she didn't know what the outcome would be. Furthermore, she chose to go with the mystery option when she could have taken the safer choice.

*****

The air was still when Veiruun returned with the first dish. For Rowan, a quenelle of light cheese mousse resting on a silver spoon and paired with a small tasting glass of dry red wine. For Alena, a small nest of crispy fried onions and potatoes housing a single egg yolk and dusted with paprika and other spices. Her dish was paired with a light beer.

Looking at the mousse before her, Rowan was somewhat disappointed. Perhaps even offended. Even with her small stature, there was no way a spoonful of mousse was a full-on dish.

"What’s the matter, Rowan?" Alena asked as she considered how to best approach her own dish.

"I was expecting more," Rowan replied glumly.

"Oh right, you're not used to larger multi-course dinners, are you? This is perfectly normal. They start with a dish like this to whet the appetite with each dish that follows building up to the next whilst offering a new experience."

"Oh."

Rowan picked up the spoon tentatively in her right hand before switching it over to her left, giving her easier access to her water. The thick mousse was unphased by her awkward manoeuvring. It just lay there in the bowl of the spoon, waiting to be consumed.

Rather than drag out the moment any longer than it had to be, Rowan obliged, taking the entire morsel in one. It was saltier than she expected, though not in a bad way. There was also a pleasant tang to it as it danced across her tongue.

The true flavour, however, came as her saliva started breaking down the structure of the mousse, thus releasing the intoxicating aromatic compounds held within. It was like an explosion in her mouth, a sensation that she could only just describe.

And then it was over, lingering long enough to tease, yet not so long as to overwhelm.

Rowan sat there with lips parted ever so slightly, her breathing heavy, perhaps even laboured. She was used to quality food, but there was a complexity here that was almost magical.

Had it just been the initial flavour profile, she would have been impressed. With the flavour bomb, she would have been amazed. With everything breaking down and leaving her palate refreshed, her mind was blown.

Just across from her, Alena was also smiling blissfully. Her nest was no more. There wasn't even a hint of it remaining. Rowan did notice something adorably amiss, however.

With a finger, she leant over and wiped away the small rolling drop of egg yolk from her lips.

Alena jumped back in surprise. "What’s wrong?" she asked, the alarm clear in her voice.

With a mischievous twinkle to her lips, Rowan smiled, answering Alena as she licked the yolk from her fingers. "You spilt something," she said.

A napkin flew to Alena's face at blushing speed. Unfortunately for her, the blush had much less distance to cover, thus making it an adorably futile endeavour.

Silvery peals filled the garden as Rowan giggled warmly. "I was hoping for a reaction like that," she said.

Muffled by her napkin and a fair bit of petulant mumbling, Alena responded with, "At least I didn't point out how you moaned over your food."

"What was that?" Rowan replied back. She knew exactly what Alena had said, but she also knew Alena was putting on an act, and she wanted to play into it a wee bit.

"I said, 'At least I didn't point out that you were moaning!'" This time it was clear and punctuated with dramatic emphasis.

Responding in kind, Rowan let her face become painted in mock horror. "I'd never!"

"You most definitely would, and you know it!"

"Be that as it may!"

"Ahem."

They were interrupted by the clearing of a throat; a small, courteous gesture that taught them the true meaning of horror. If there were other guests within earshot, their conversation would probably be seen as scandalous.

"It is fortuitous, it seems, that we had the foresight to give our esteemed guests some extra privacy."

Having announced himself, Veiruun stood completely unfazed at the entrance of their private alcove. He appeared completely unpeturbed by their conversation. So much so, that Rowan was tempted to push on his emotions to check he wasn't a Stoic. Were it not for the added awkwardness that would strengthen her own desires, she probably would have.

Fortunately, any notion of tempting fate slipped away as Veiruun went on to explain after Alena asked him what he meant.

"We believe it best to ere on the side of caution with Awakened clientèle, especially a young Ardent in love with a Gift of the Lover. As such, we gave you the space with the most privacy. Even a terrified Ardent with the Gift of the Eagle would have difficulty eavesdropping on this garden."

To hear Veiruun correctly identify the grouping of her Gift was rather unnerving. There weren't any Gifts that would easily provide that information, afterall, which meant the information brokers were going all out in uncovering everything there was to know about her. What else did they know? She dared not ask.

"That's good to know," Rowan replied.

"Of course. If you are ready, I shall bring the next dish."

"Yes, thank you."

*****

"That was incredible," Alena sighed.

"You can say that again," Rowan replied, having just finished her dessert.

The dish was borderline indescribable. When it was served, Veiruun presented her with a candied orb that rested on a vanilla cream topped round of rose sponge. What truly made the dish special, however, was a floral mist trapped by the delicate walls of the candied orb that enchanted the nostrils when the shell was cracked.

Alena looked over at Rowan with curiosity in her eyes. "Which dish was your favourite?" she asked.

"Everything."

"Cheat."

"Well, how else do you expect me to answer? It was all amazing."

"You could still have a favourite. Mine was the saffron-poached halibut and rice."

"It did smell delicious," Rowan admitted. She'd been served perfectly rare Drakiir steak with a side of rosemary-butter potatoes and violet-tipped asparagus for the same course, which was admittedly to die for, but Rowan wasn't sure if she could call it her favourite.

"So…"

Alena clearly wasn't satisfied with her answer.

Time to give this some real thought.

"I liked the soup."

That surprised Rowan.

Can you even taste, Rina?

"No, but I can get an idea from how it makes you think and feel."

Fair enough, I guess, but the soup is probably at the bottom of my list.

"Your loss."

Considering I actually got to eat it, I'm inclined to disagree.

"No need to rub it in. Anyway, while it is nice chatting, using the emotional stimulation of your date to do so is going to lead to things I have no intention of experiencing vicariously."

Rowan had to stop herself from blushing out of nowhere as she knew exactly what Rina was hinting at.

"Is everything okay?" Alena asked.

"Oh. Aye. Sorry."

Thinking quickly now, Rowan considered the entire meal. The mousse was certainly a contender, but it realistically fell behind the other options on account of portion size.

Then there was cream and sweetpea soup that Rina seemed to like. It was certainly delicious, but Rowan felt like it was crafted in order to not overwhelm the palate before the Drakiir steak immediately after.

Out of all the dishes, however, if she could only pick one, she'd have to choose the warm, smoked wood pigeon salad and the cherry dressing it came with. The flavours came together perfectly, only to be further enhanced by the complementary textures, resulting in an indescribable mouthfeel. A perfect mix of crunchy salad and tender flesh alongside tart sweetness and lightly smoked game.

Alena seemed content with her answer, and they were soon getting ready to leave for the final stop of their date.

"Are you sure you don't mind me choosing how we end the date?"

"If you have something you want to do, I'll happily keep this date going until we have no other choice."

"You aren't tired?"

"Are you?"

"Only slightly, but I think you'll like what I have in mind for us."

Rowan smiled. "Colour me intrigued."

"Oh, I intend to colour you more than just intrigued. Davra suggested this place to me."

From her limited interactions with Davra, Rowan was convinced there would be some spice to her suggestions.

"Now I'm curious."

*****

Rowan’s estimation of the spice behind Davra's suggestion was found wanting. The Honey Peach Inn beckoned them like a lover promising to tantalise their every sense. From the large open common room filled with cushioned booths and scantily clad hosts and hostesses, Rowan doubted people did much sleeping here: not in the typical sense, that is.

"Are you sure this is the place?" Rowan asked as a hostess led them to a booth with a clear view of the stage.

Alena jumped slightly at the question. "Sorry, what was that?"

She was staring. Not that Rowan could blame her. The uniforms were enchanting; tailed waistcoats, tiny skirts or shorts, and little more, regardless of gender.

Rowan decided not to repeat the question. Even if Davra hadn't suggested the Honey Peach Inn to Alena, they were certainly going to have a good time.

Once they were settled in to their booth, they were joined by a couple of hosts and hostesses. They had been asked their preferences on their way in, and both admitted to being interested in both, so they were provided with both.

The hosts and hostesses drank with them and gossiped, the conversation ranging from fairly tame to a lusty inferno. Both Rowan and Alena were blushing furiously as the music picked up and a giant peach rose onto the stage.

Fourteen dancers emerged from the peach, seven of whom strutted forwards with canes, heeled shoes, and netted stockings. The other seven stepped into position behind them as the music rose to the crescendo, and then it stopped.

A moment later, the first seven dancers twisted their canes with a flick of their heels, and the dance began. The hosts and hostesses who were accompanying Rowan and Alena shifted away and pushed the two closer together. Rowan could feel Alena’s heat.

The show continued, and it delivered on the promise of tantalising the senses. The dance was like nothing Rowan had seen or experienced before. She knew dancing could be sensual, but this was something else. Something more.

It was mesmerising. Powerful. Perhaps even erotic. At the same time, it didn’t feel sexual. At least, not exactly. Yes, she found it alluring and a little arousing, but she had the feeling that it held a different purpose beyond evoking such emotions.

As the dance reached its climax, Rowan was ultimately left with a single word to describe it.

Beautiful.

Chapter 29: Closer

Rowan woke up in a cold sweat. Just like the chains that bound the twin moons on her back, she couldn't fully escape the trauma of her captivity. Even seeing Amran take his first true steps as a free man only lessened the nightmares.

That's what she kept telling herself as she splashed her face with water. Out of the two options her mind was presenting her, it was the more positive spin on the situation. The alternative insisted that the nightmares waited until that night to strike so that any sense of victory from the moment was lost.

It didn’t help that the nightmares had been uncomfortably absent for much of that week. Of course, she could just as easily attribute the reduction in nightmares to Alena, or to being free in general, or to her training. At the same time…

Her heart was thumping in her chest. Was it her fear-enhanced senses, or was her heart really beating that loud?

Breathe.

Why did it hurt? And why did she feel both hot and cold? Why…

Breathe!

Why is. Everything. Spinning?

Oblivion.

******

Whilst Rowan had only lost consciousness for a couple of seconds, she soon drifted off back to sleep, only to be roused by the sound of hushed conversation. From the comforting weight of her blanket and the soft down of her pillow, she figured the panic attack was just another nightmare, and she had overslept.

If it were just the voices, she would have let herself drift back asleep. Alas, the stray hair on her face had other plans as it snuggled up against her. At first, Rowan tried to push it away sleepily. Alas, being an expert stray hair, any attempts to remove it just resulted in a completely unrelated part of her face being tickled instead.

It was omnipresent.

Rowan initiated phase two of rogue hair removal as one of the voices called out; Seres. The relief in her voice was clear, as were the tears that had clearly been shed.

Not wanting to worry Seres any further, Rowan opened her eyes and smiled softly. Only, instead of the princess, she was greeted by the stray hair. It lay there, straddling her eye without a care in the world.

One hand shot out to silence Seres whilst the other carefully extracted the hair. A few excruciating moments later, she was free, and it was made clear that the stray hair was of royal descent.

Were it not for the redness around Seres' eyes, Rowan would have capitalised on the stray hair to tease her for a good five minutes, but something was clearly wrong. Seres' growing confusion probably wasn't helping either.

Rather than wait for an explanation, Rowan went straight into requesting one. Seres hesitated for a second before answering.

"I was coming over to help you get ready for your date, but you weren't answering, so I got the maids to check in on you. They found you out cold near your washbasin. You wouldn't wake up!"

"Oh."

Seres' tears returned as Rowan made sense of everything that had happened. She recalled the chains and the crystalline needles stabbing into her back. The memory was as primal to her as her Awakening had been, and it served as the prelude to the true horror of her nightmares.

Seres, Alena, Tehri, Amran, Tyris, Kiriin, and even Anri were all made to suffer the same torture as her whilst the Silent Sisters forced her to watch. Had the nightmare been reality, it might have been enough to break her. Now that she was processing the nightmare a second time with Seres being there beside her, she felt her resolve glowing hot from the forge.

Without a word, Rowan reached over and held Seres in a firm embrace, as if to remind the both of them that the other wasn't going anywhere.

*****

"So, do you have any plans for today?" Seres asked Rowan as she coated a sweet breakfast pastry in jam.

Rowan shook her head. "If only. I'm still at a complete loss for ideas."

"Well, as your romantic aide, I've got you covered," Seres smiled as she indicated the notebook she had created for this very moment.

"I thought you were my winglady extraordinaire?" Rowan asked with clear bemusement.

"I can be both!" Seres protested, her smile dropping into a wounded pout.

"Well, last I checked, you weren't exactly swimming in romantic experience."

In response, Seres threw an almost imperceptible look at Rowan. It was perhaps a politer variation of a look Rowan had mastered. One that said, "No shit."

As such expressions were supposedly unbecoming of a princess, she quickly returned to the spoken word for a more put-together response. With a deep, composing breath, she went on to say, "While it is true I lack practical experience in regards to the romantic arts, I have researched many a romance novel, and my knowledge of the city is second to none. Furthermore, I have requisitioned the expertise of my maids to temper the less realistic notions."

The rebuttal almost rendered Rowan speechless. Alas, the serious facade Seres had presented was made completely transparent by the initial break in her character. Even so, Rowan decided to play along as she responded in a similarly collected tone.

"You have humbled me, dear friend, for you have proven yourself to possess the foresight I clearly lack."

Both girls held the air of mock pomposity for as long as they could manage. Seres slipped first as she tried to hide a quiet snicker. Unfortunately for her, Rowan was nearing her limit, and the way she contorted her face to prevent any form of laughter from escaping was too much for Seres to bear.

With floodgates open, a veiled snicker grew into a charming giggle that tipped Rowan over the edge. Laughter soon filled the room, echoing beyond the walls and alarming everyone within earshot.

When they eventually calmed down, they returned to the task at hand; giving Rowan options for her date with Alena. With her training the next day and Alena being scheduled to leave for Særis the day after that, they only had one day left for themselves, and Rowan wanted to make the most of it.

Unfortunately for her, however, her knowledge of the city was greatly limited, which made planning a date rather challenging. To that end, Seres offered to advise Rowan on potential date spots and activities. Perhaps more importantly, Seres also offered to help Rowan get ready.

When it was finally time for Rowan to leave, her nerves were hitting a whole new high. She had one last look in the mirror to check she was still okay. The soft white blouse and dark blue shorts she wore felt unfamiliar and almost out of place on her frame despite Seres' every assurance.

It was her first time dressing up for a date in years, and so much had changed since then. Part of her felt undeserving of the opportunity, of the clothes she wore. Another felt emboldened, yet still, she froze. A tear fell for Kiriin, and lost love.

Amidst everything, however, a voice pushed her forwards.

"You can do it."

Rina had her back.

*****

Rowan paced anxiously across the gazebo in the Royal Gardens as she waited for Alena. Seres had sent her a messenger on Rowan’s behalf to inform them of the meeting spot for their date.

Some of the gardeners looked over at her in anticipation. Considering Rowan’s previous visit to the gardens, they were probably wondering if they were in for another show. Fortunately, Rowan felt confident that she didn’t need to rely on embarrassment to get her through the start of her date, especially as she had other emotions she could call upon to bridge the gap with her sister.

The sound of footfall on the wooden steps of the gazebo alerted Rowan to a familiar presence. She turned to face Alena as she ascended ever-radiantly into view. She was beaming as their eyes made contact, her smile inviting, and her gait filled with excitement.

"I'm not late, am I?" Alena asked.

"N-n-no, I only just got here," Rowan replied, stumbling over her words like a lovestruck teen.

"Excellent," Alena said as she bounced forwards and leant in for a kiss from Rowan. When their lips parted a moment later, she whispered, "You're stunning."

"So are you," Rowan replied as she touched her nose affectionately against Alena’s.

She really was beautiful, and her outfit for the day was equally charming. Like Rowan, she was wearing a soft white blouse, though hers was sleeveless as if to show off her delicate, pale olive shoulders. The blouse also featured a full collar that she had adorned with a long, slender ribbon.

Any real similarities to Rowan’s outfit ended with the blouse, as she wore a short, flowy, rose-coloured skirt around her waist that fell just above the knee. The white cotton of her socks approached the hem of her skirt, leaving only the slightest hint of bare flesh. Also complimenting her legs were a pair of cream suede boots that had been laced to perfection.

What truly pulled the outfit together, however, was the voluminous ponytail that bobbed and bounced with as much enthusiasm as Alena herself, though the ribbon at the end of her tail was a close second.

The couple remained close for a few more blissful moments before drifting side by side, fingers interlaced and ready to move.

"Where to first?" Alena asked.

"We're already here," Rowan smiled, waving her free hand to the gardens. She wanted a quiet start to their date where they could just bask in each others’ company, and the cultivated natural beauty of the gardens seemed like the perfect place for it. As an added bonus, there was much to the gardens that Rowan hadn't yet explored, including a small hedge maze.

They spent almost two hours just walking around and exploring before they finally stopped for a bite to eat. A servant brought out a blanket and a small basket filled with a light picnic for lunch.

"Seres suggested I ask the servants to prepare the picnic while we explored," Rowan said as they sat down and the servants left.

"Makes sense," Alena replied.

"I thought so too, but I think she got a bit carried away with the idea, " Rowan laughed.

"Oh?"

"She wanted the servants to set the picnic up all fancy and romantic in a special location for us to find. I told her it felt a little contrived and artificial."

"Only a little?" Alena laughed.

"Well, perhaps a wee bit more than just a little, but you get the point."

"I do," Alena smiled, "though I would have been fine with it. At the very least, it would have been funny."

"She would feel so betrayed to hear you say that."

"I'm sure she'd forgive me. Either way, this was definitely the better approach. I can only imagine how awkward it would have been if we didn't find the picnic."

"Or if someone else found it first and we walked in on them eating it?"

"Or the animals."

"And this way, we're out in the open, so we're encouraged to be on our best behaviour."

Rowan looked across in confusion at a blushing Alena before realising what she just said.

"I, uh, didnae mean it like that," she stammered quickly, her accent growing stronger.

"You don’t need to apologise," Alena replied. Her cheeks were still warm, but she was starting to compose herself. "You just caught me off guard, is all."

"Maybe so, but I really didn't mean to be so forward."

Alena laughed. "Rowan, everything about you is forward. It's one of the things I like about you. I love how you wear your heart on your sleeve, even compared to other Ardents."

"You mean it?"

"I do."

"Really?"

"Really really."

"Well, in that case, let me return the favour."

"Oh?"

In response, Rowan shuffled over to Alena and whispered the various aspects of her character she found particularly attractive, from personality traits to physical to more esoteric ideas. From how accepting she was to how she made Rowan feel safe. From the way her tail swished when she was excited to her alluring figure. From the duality of her shyness and confidence. And finally? Her smile.

By the time Rowan pulled away, Alena was steaming, her face almost as red as Rowan’s hair. It wasn't just the words that had her blushing like a bonfire, but the full weight of Rowan’s emotions that fueled them. Rowan was capitalising on her abilities as an Ardent to highlight her love and desire so that Alena would know them to be true. In doing so, or perhaps in addition to, she inadvertently triggered her Gift, which further enhanced the moment.

Having been rendered speechless, Alena sat there nibbling at a sandwich. Rather than add to the heat, Rowan just placed her arm around Alena’s shoulder and pulled her in gently. Alena dropped the sandwich and leant into Rowan’s comforting embrace.

Their love was young, and they had been quick to find it. Even so, it was strong, and they found comfort in knowing it was more than just lust or desire.

They sat together in silence for a good while, looking towards a united future. It mattered not that they would soon be forced to part ways because their hearts were already becoming one, and they knew they would be reunited again.

In the heat of their first night together, they asked if their relationship would last. Or, more accurately, they asked if the other would be okay if they continued to hold a special place for them in their heart in case they drifted apart. Both agreed that they wanted to stay together, no matter what.

Now, in their moment of relative calm, they did not ask the question, for there was no need. Resonance sang in harmony between them. Even if the nature of their relationship changed, the connection they shared was known to Illyria, and She would make sure to preserve and nurture it.

The bond was strong enough now that they would continue being a part of the other's life in some way, shape, or form for as long as they lived, and nothing else got in the way. Such bonds also gave Rowan hope that she would be reunited with Tehri, Kyr, and Kiriin, assuming they were still alive.

Rowan was smiling blissfully when Alena practically leapt to her feet. In the midst of their basking, a giant squirrel had snuck up on them and was in the middle of stealing their lunch. The task of fighting it off fell to Alena as they didn't want to hurt it, and Rowan was still learning to better fine-tune her strength.

As Alena wrestled with a squirrel a quarter of her size, Rowan rescued the food. By the end of the perilous operation,  they had lost half of their lunch, and they agreed to finish it before they got distracted again.

Chapter 28: Striking a Balance

Rowan strained as she neared the end of her reps. Tyris was working her hard, and the floor was glistening from her sweat. Even after almost a week of training under her brother, she could feel the burn.

Fortunately, things were improving, especially compared to the first day. Rowan and Alena ended up staying overnight as Rowan could barely move a muscle, and Talia insisted. The second day, in contrast, was devoted almost entirely to rest. Even so, Rowan did make sure to do some stretches and light dancing in the evening.

She also spent that night alone as Alena was going to be busy shopping with Ædarik and the others. On the one hand, Rowan was sad that she wouldn't be there, having fun alongside them. On the other, she was thankful for the chance to focus on her training. Seres also joined her on the third day for training under Tyris, which led to a significantly smoother introduction with Talia.

Overall, the third day was much less hellish, and it also established the routine that Rowan would be following for the next month or so. Tyris would spend the mornings of every other day training her in person, with or without extras. The exception here being the Day of Rest which would always be skipped.

As for the days in between, Rowan was free to do whatever she wanted, though Tyris did give her some exercises for her to do as part of her daily routine. In addition to socialising and studying, Rowan decided to dedicate at least a couple of hours on these days to weapons training and dancing.

With all that said, by the end of her training on the fifth day, her core was eating fire as muscles she didn’t even know she had were aching from the intense workout.

At first, Rowan was surprised when Tyris said that he wanted to focus on her core for a bit, as she had been fairly confident that she was doing okay in that particular area. Now she was convinced that Tyris was going out of his way to prove just how wrong she was.

"You're doing great," Tyris encouraged her.

"You say that, but I know you're enjoying this," Rowan retorted through clenched teeth. Ten more seconds, and she could rest again. Thirty more minutes, and they'd be cooling down for the day.

When Rowan lowered herself from her hold, Tyris responded. "That may be true in part," he admitted, "but it's also true that you've been making really good progress. I don't know if it's because you're an Ardent or something else, but your muscles are recovering a lot quicker than normal."

"I just wish we could switch things up a little bit," Rowan sighed.

"With your progress, we should be able to diversify a little more when you next visit. Have you been doing the exercises that Talia suggested?"

Rowan nodded. Talia had been a massive help, having approached Rowan's predicament with the eyes of a doctor. She had provided Rowan with a set of resistant bands of elastic material and a list of stretches for her to try. It was less intensive than what Tyris had her doing, but they did seem to help.

Tyris smiled in acknowledgement of Rowan’s nod. "Excellent. She wasn’t sure how effective the exercises would be for you as they haven't exactly been tested on Ardents or Stoics."

"I think they're effective," Rowan said with less confidence than she intended. Seeing the questioning look in Tyris' eyes, she continued. "It's difficult to say for certain," she clarified. "Especially with you muddying the waters with your own exercises."

"Fair. Speaking of muddy waters, we've rested enough. I've got a new variation for you to try, so I'll give you an example first."

*****

When the end of the first week rolled up, Rowan was treated to the ecstasy of Alena’s fingers and a selection of aromatic oils. After seeing how much work Rowan was putting into her training, she had snuck off to learn all about massaging from Davra. She was still a little clumsy in certain areas, but Rowan didn't care. For her, it was heaven.

When it was time to massage Rowan’s back, however, Alena hesitated, the tips of her fingers quivering on Rowan’s scars.

"What’s the matter?" Rowan asked sleepily.

"Are you sure it's okay for me to, you know?" Alena’s question trailed off, but Rowan could hear the concern in her voice.

"Why wouldn't it be?"

"I don't want to hurt you," Alena admitted, only for Rowan to respond with the silence of incredulity.

"You said they used powdered crystal in the making of your scars," Alena clarified. "What if I push the crystals around, and they scratch away at you or something?"

"Where was that concern last night? Your nails are surprisingly sharp."

Rowan could practically feel the blush radiating from Alena. The real prize for her teasing came next, however, as Alena tried to respond. "Th-that was completely different," she stammered.

Rowan half twisted to look at her and smiled mischievously. "It's completely fine, Alena. My scars can be a little sensitive, but they don't hurt from just touching even when the touching is aggressively intimate in nature. With that said, I'm going to turn back around because I'm way too stiff to twist like that right now."

After a few moments of waiting for Alena to start messaging her again, Rowan cleared her throat to get her attention. "Just so you know, Alena, that was an invitation," she teased.

"Right, yes. Sorry."

*****

Later that same afternoon, Rowan went to visit Amran. He was getting his prosthetic fitted, and Rowan wanted to be there for him. She still felt responsible for his injury, even with his insistence that she wasn't.

Ever attuned to his Gift, he told Rowan to enter as she approached his door. He didn't even give her a chance to stop at the door, let alone knock it. To then add insult to injury, Rowan walked in on him exercising. Namely by way of a one-legged squat, and he was doing it with a practised elegance that had Rowan’s jaw hitting the floor.

"You're drooling, Rowan," Amran said plainly, his eyes closed. "Please stop."

Rowan clamped her jaw shut in an instant, ready to object, when she felt the slight wetness on her chin. It took a couple of flustered attempts to wipe away the drool. Once she was done, however, she gave Amran an accusatory look. "You're doing this on purpose," she said with the accidental vagueness of a cold reading.

Picking up on the lack of direction in her accusation, Amran responded in his classic deadpan. "And what is it, pray tell, that I'm guilty of?" he asked.

"Exercising!"

"So it would seem, though, I fail to see why my fitness is an issue."

"Someone must have told you about my training!"

The questionable logic behind Rowan’s line of thinking had Amran opening his eyes in disbelief. He stood up from his squat, swung over to a chair, and stared at Rowan so that she could see the full extent of his deadpan incredulity.

Rowan staggered slightly in the face of Amran's baleful stoicism, but she stood firm and held his stare.

Unfortunately for Rowan, Amran was an expert at staring, and she folded before the contest began in earnest. Amran sighed dryly as she relented. "Seres had informed me of your training, yes," he admitted. "My own exercises, however, are completely unrelated."

"But…"

"Think about it, Rowan. If I really wanted to tease you to get a rise from you, I wouldn’t need to go to such lengths."

From the embarrassment and mild outrage that was welling up inside her, Rowan knew he spoke the truth.

"So it really was just for the sake of exercising?" Rowan asked.

"Not exactly," Amran replied. "I was doing it as a form of meditation to prepare myself for what is to come."

"Oh."

The awkward silence that followed was palpable. Rowan felt like a right fool for making the situation about herself when she was meant to be there as support for Amran.

"How are you feeling about it?" Rowan went on to say after the silence became unbearable. It had only been a second or two, but even that was too much for her.

Amran just sighed. "Honestly, I'm somewhat anxious," he admitted. "Walking is a luxury I never thought I would miss."

"Most people don't really expect to be in a position where they would have it taken from them." Her voice was marred by guilt as she recalled how Amran had been crippled whilst coming to her aid. She couldn't help feeling at least partly responsible for his injuries.

"Stop that," Amran scolded her. His voice carried an uncharacteristic bite to it. "Your misguided guilt is uncomfortably heavy."

"Sorry," Rowan apologised, her eyes downcast. She was at risk of spiralling in the same direction as her mood went for a dive. The only thing that stopped her from crashing was a flick to her forehead that had enough force behind it to send her reeling.

"What was that for?" she asked painfully as she rubbed at the fresh welt that Amran had placed so perfectly in the centre of her forehead.

As for his answer, he returned to his usual deadpan. "You weren't stopping," he said plainly.

"Huh?"

"Do you still feel like you don't deserve happiness and everything is your fault?"

Rowan had been so distracted by the flicking that she had forgotten about her guilt and only through Amran's question did she recognise what had happened. Furthermore, her shifting expression gave Amran the answer she was looking for. Even so, he made it clear through his own expression that he was waiting for Rowan to re-initiate the conversation.

This time the silence lingered as Rowan decoded what Amran probably considered a blatant cue for her to speak. Unfortunately, his stoic features made for a nigh impenetrable cypher. Fortunately, the awkwardness of silence was enough for her to do what he wanted anyway.

In her attempt to re-establish small talk, Rowan went on to say, "So, what are you going to do when you get the foot?"

"Besides giving you a good kick?" Amran remarked sardonically.

"You'd have to catch me first," Rowan laughed. With the shame and guilt quite literally flicked out of her and her ego shattered by shame and guilt, she was able to slide back to their usual dynamic, and her confidence returned.

"Is that a challenge?" Amran asked, his question punctuated by the slightest rise to his eyebrows. Rather than wait for an answer to his largely rhetorical question, he went on to answer Rowan’s own question in earnest. "What I really want to do is go for a walk."

"Do you want me to go with you?"

"No, not this time. I need to do it alone so that I can prove to myself that I can rely on myself."

Even with his level tone, Rowan could feel his vulnerability. For a second, she thought such feelings were uncharacteristic of him, but she realised that she had no way of knowing either way. It also didn't matter if it was, as it wouldn't change how he was feeling in that moment.

With that in mind, she didn’t try to change his mind or suggest he have someone there at first. Instead, she offered him a simple thing. Time.

"I can stay with you until you're ready to take that first step."

"Thank you."

Chapter 27: Back to Basics

The young, crimson-haired woman had a plan; a path forward in her quest for vengeance and belonging. Alas, as she lay there in bed, Rowan was struck with the realisation that she wasn’t quite ready to take the next step.

She was too weak.

It didn’t matter that she had started to fill out since her escape from the caves. She was too weak. Even with her Gift invigorating her healing factor as a result of her having her first time with the tawny-haired Ferran that slumbered next to her, she was too weak. Her Gift was limited. All it had effectively done, aside from it being an incredible experience, was undoing some of the damage from her years of malnutrition. Yes, it had invigorated her for a time which enhanced the moment, but the moment had passed.

For her Gift to do more, she would need to cultivate it further. With Alena’s help, she was confident she would get there eventually, especially as she wanted to deepen their relationship beyond the misconceptions of others. Rowan knew there would be many who would mistake their relationship as being nothing but lust at this point. She could also see why. They had known each other for less than a month, and their dance at the ball oozed desire.

For the most part, Rowan even agreed with them. Lust and desire definitely played a massive role in their initial attraction to each other. But to think that was all there was to them would be to ignore Rowan’s nature as an Ardent or the personality quirks of the two girls. If they knew Rowan better, they would know how fast her emotions build once a seed was planted. For Alena, Rowan couldn’t say for certain, but she could feel the weight of Alena’s words when she told Rowan how she felt. That had to account for something.

Still, it was something they would need to work on, ideally before Alena left for Særis. That gave them a week, give or take a couple of days. Alas, Rowan also had to prepare for her own departure which brought her straight back to her earlier realisation that she was still far too weak. To make matters worse, she was at a loss for how best to maximise her recovery. Nutrition was fine, but exercise and managing her metabolism? That was easier said than done.

The training and exercise she had done during her captivity were meant to build reflexes and muscle memory for the most part. It also had her maximising the efficiency of her muscles whilst they kept her as weak as possible. Almost as if they had a way to quickly bulk up those who accepted the deal.

In theory, Rowan could use the exercises from her captivity as well as those from her youth to get the strength she needed. The problem was that she didn’t know which exercises to use or the best way to utilise them. In the lead-up to the ball, she had focused on dancing and sword routines. They had helped, but only slightly.

Rowan sighed heavily in frustration, and Alena stirred. The Ferran girl yawned sleepily and asked Rowan, “What’s wrong?”

“I feel like I’m getting nowhere! The only thing I truly have more of since escaping is stamina. I need to be stronger!”

Alena kissed Rowan’s shoulder gently and said, “You’re doing fine. These things take time.”

“We don’t have time!”

“If time is what it takes for you to get better, then of course we do. I know you want to visit home and that you want to strike back at the people responsible for your captivity, but you need to look after yourself as well.”

“I know! It’s just…” Rowan’s voice trailed off. She felt like a failure, and the air was getting heavy with guilt.

“You don’t need to bear the weight of this alone, Rowan. I could help. I’m not that great at strength training or fighting, but I could do other stuff with you.”

For a second, Rowan’s skin took on a radiant glow, and her lips invited Alena in.

“Not like that, silly, “ Alena laughed. “Well, not just that. I meant dancing and the like, but we can do some late-night exercise as well.”

“I’d like that,” Rowan said, the weight of her guilt lifting.

“You could also ask someone to help guide you through an exercise program. Someone in the military, perhaps? They take their fitness and conditioning very seriously from what I’ve seen.”

Rowan kissed Alena promptly on the lips and exclaimed, “You’re a genius, Alena! I could ask my brother!”

“That sounds like a great idea,” Alena replied with a smile. “He’s in the navy, right?”

“Aye! He also trained me to fight when I was younger.”

Alena’s ears twitched with curiosity. “He did?” she asked.

“Yeah. Back when I was eleven. It took me a while to convince him. Especially as my ribs were bruised at the time.”

“It sounds like you’ve got quite a story here.” Alena’s words were oozing the curiosity of a cat, and Rowan could see the outline of her tail swishing slowly beneath the blankets.

“It’s not the happiest story,” Rowan replied, with a slight downcast to her eyes.

“I’m sorry,” Alena apologised, seeing the sadness in Rowan’s eyes and the subtle rise in her temperature. “You don’t need to tell me if it’s a painful memory.”

Rowan smiled back meekly. “I’ll tell you. It’s nothing compared to my captivity or the time leading up to it, and I want us to get to know each other better anyway.”

Alena kissed Rowan once on the lips and once on the forehead. “Well, if you insist, take all the time you need. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Thank you,” Rowan said, turning to face Alena in bed and taking her hands. She spent much of that morning telling Alena about her childhood and early adolescence. She glossed over a few details and highlighted others. Telling your new lover about past romances wasn’t exactly peak dating etiquette after all, but the training was rather pertinent to their earlier discussion.

*****

Shortly after breakfast, Rowan and Alena ventured into the city proper in search of the elder Naliir sibling's home away from sea and barracks. Seres had also been invited, but she made some excuse about how she had things she needed to do in the Palace and that it would be nice to have an opportunity for Rowan to introduce Alena to Tyris and his wife without her being in the way. Rowan didn't really understand Seres' reasoning, but she respected it nonetheless. It also meant that they could leave a lot more promptly as they didn't need a guard.

Still, it was a strange experience, being away from Seres and having confidence that no harm would come to either of them. So much so that it made Rowan a little anxious. If Alena wasn't there beside her, it may have been too much. Another thing she would need to work on.

Fortunately, the walk through the ever-beautiful Palace District was peaceful for the most part. The excitement didn't really start until they reached the gate to the Iridescent Flame District, one of the city's three main residential districts. Tyris had moved there with his wife after his last promotion and the news that Talia was pregnant.

As for the excitement that greeted them at the gate? Overly inquisitive guards.

“Hold up, miss,” they said to Rowan after motioning Alena through.

“She’s with me,” Alena told them.

“In that case, could the two of you please step inside the gatehouse?”

Rowan’s anxiety started to rise and rise, stopping only when Alena took hold of her hand. “It’ll be fine,” she said soothingly. “I’m sure they just want to ask a couple of questions, and then we’ll be on our way.”

With a guard leading the way, they were shown to a small room with a table and some chairs in the centre. A quick glance revealed an absence of any windows and only the one door in and out.

The guard motioned for Rowan and Alena to sit down, waiting to do the same until they were seated. A moment or two after taking his own seat, the guard cleared his throat.

“Now, before we begin, I just want to assure both of you that this is just a routine interview to ensure the security of fair Midiris.”

“We understand, Corporal,” Alena interjected before Rowan could respond.

“Capital! Now, without further ado, what brings you to the Iridescent Flame? You don’t appear to be locals, and none of the other guards stationed here recognise you.”

“My brother,” Rowan blurted out, her words tumbling over one another.

“Yes?” the corporal responded inquisitively.

“We’re guests of the crown, and we’re visiting her brother, Rear Admiral Naliir,” Alena clarified.

“Naliir? One second, please.”

With that, the guard stood up, went to the door, and called over one of the other guards. Rowan had one fear-enhanced ear to the whispered conversation, but she was too distracted to make out the details.

The guard had his back to her, after all. She could strike. She could win their freedom.

She could…

“Stop!”

Her voice was audible as she tried to rid her mind of the intrusive thoughts that were plaguing her. Alarmed by the sudden outburst, Alena gripped her thigh, and the guard turned back to face them.

“Is something the matter?” he asked.

Rowan was sweating.

“Water,” Alena responded, her voice carrying an air of command.

Rather than question her, the guard ensured that her request was granted. Soon after, another guard returned with a wooden cup filled with freshly chilled water. Rowan and Alena were then left alone for a short while as Rowan slowly sipped away.

The guard returned after five or so minutes and told them that they were free to go after apologising for the stress they had caused.

For the rest of their walk to Tyris’ home, Alena refused to let go of Rowan’s hand. It was a small comfort, but a much-appreciated one. It reminded her that she wasn’t alone.

*****

The young couple garnered a few looks as they made their way through the Iridescent Flame. A curious glance at their hands for the most part. Same-sex relationships, whilst not typically frowned upon in most circles, were still rare enough to be unusual, after all.

Fortunately, they did little more than stare; a gesture Rowan could largely ignore. Especially as they didn't need to venture too far before reaching the entrance to her brother's estate.

After two sharp knocks, the door was opened by a middle-aged man, distinguished in his features and sharp in his dress.

"How can — ah, you must be Rowan, the young master's sister?"

Even his voice carried the panache of a gentleman.

"Y-yes," Rowan replied hesitantly, not expecting to be recognised by the man. She hadn't exactly sent word ahead that she was coming, after all.

Seeing the question in her eyes, however, the man spoke up.

"The young master has described you in detail," he said, "especially after his reunion with you. As steward of this household, I felt it prudent to memorise his description of you in case of this very eventuality. "

"Is he home?" Rowan asked.

"Unfortunately not, but the mistress can receive you until his return, if that is agreeable."

"Do you know how long he'll be?"

"In the absence of any emergencies, I estimate little more than half an hour."

"In that case…"

"We'd love to be received by the lady of the house," Alena interjected, hearing the shyness in Rowan’s voice.

"Well then, please come inside. I shall have someone send for her. Until then, you may call on me if you need anything. My name is Tamrik."

Once the two girls were inside, Tamrik led them through to a comfortable sitting room where they awaited their host. Before long, they were greeted by the sight of a young woman, perhaps three years younger than Tyris, with long, chestnut-coloured hair with golden highlights.

The baby-bump made it clear that this was Talia, Tyris' wife and the lady of the house. Her clothes seemed to be designed with both her profession and pregnancy in mind; comfortable, sky blue, and easy to change out of in the case of excessive contact with a patient's bodily fluids.

"It's a delight to finally be meeting you," Talia smiled at Rowan. "I'm Talia, Tyris' wife. Rowan, correct?"

Rowan nodded awkwardly before Talia turned to Alena.

"I'm sorry, but may I ask your name? Tamrik neglected to pass it on."

"That's okay," Alena responded. "I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Alena, Rowan’s — um…"

Talia returned a knowing look. "An absolute pleasure, Alena. I hope you don't mind me forgoing any titles."

"I didn't…"

"You have a noble's bearing, casual though it may be."

"We're not interrupting your work, are we?" Rowan interjected.

"I've got my nurses and secretaries handling the clinic," Talia replied. "And they'll send for me if a case needs my attention."

"That's good," Rowan responded, her speech wrapped in timidity as she tried and failed to keep a natural flow to the conversation.

"You don’t need to be shy around me, Rowan," Talia said with a smile, trying to comfort her. "We're practically family, after all."

"It's just…"

"I think Rowan skipped a few steps in preparing herself for meeting you," Alena opined.

"Tyris took the wind from my sails by describing me so much beforehand," Rowan said glumly. "Now, I'm not the one responsible for your first impression of me, and your second impression is doubtlessly ruined."

"That couldn't be further from the truth," Talia responded, a gentle warmth touching on her words. "If anything, you're just confirming to me that you are indeed Tyris' precious and highly adorable little sister."

To say Rowan blushed in response to Talia's commentary would be an understatement and a half; she was crimson from head to toe.

Alena patted her back and said, "There, there."

It was a comforting, yet somewhat mortifying gesture that had Rowan rather confused; an odd mix of elation and horror. Of course, Talia found a way to enhance the moment with a delicate giggle that she didn’t even try to hide.

Fortunately, it was still better than the encounter at the gate. A silver lining amidst the embarrassment that Rowan felt. Better yet, respite soon arrived by way of a young girl, barely thirteen, carrying a tray filled with drinks and a variety of snacks.

"Refreshments for our guests," the girl said politely.

“You don’t need to be so formal, Kaia,” Talia told the girl, “we’re with family.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the girl replied, this time with a timid air.

“This is Kaia, my niece. She’s staying here to train as a maid and assistant.”

With the added context, Rowan could see the slight familial resemblance. From the nuances found in Midiran, she was likely the daughter of Talia’s cousin instead of a sibling; the word was largely the same, but the inflection differed. Ultimately, the significance depended on the family, and it was certainly simpler than the traditional Ferran kinship terms.

“She’s precious,” Alena commented, eliciting a slight blush from Kaia.

“Thank you, miss.”

“Alena. And this is Rowan, Tyris’ brother.”

“Am I doomed to never introduce myself ever again!” Rowan exclaimed.

The short exchange seemed to help Kaia relax. “I’ve still got some chores left, Aunt Talia, but I’ll make sure to come back every once in a while with refills.”

“You can stay if you want, Kaia,” Talia told her. “You don’t need to busy yourself with work when we have family over.”

“I wouldn’t want to intrude on Miss Rowan and Miss Alena visiting you and Uncle Tyris. Especially if Miss Rowan is Uncle Tyris’ sister.”

“Well, if you insist. But please take a snack with you before you go.”

It was at this point that Kaia removed the cover on one of the snackboxes to reveal some Alyren Raindrops. Sweet Temptation.

A delicious calamity in the making.

After Kaia left the room to work on her chores, Rowan reached for the orb of fruity heaven. Not knowing what was in store for them, Talia smiled at her enthusiasm.

*****

The results of Rowan treating herself to an Alyren Raindrop may have been expected by those who had seen her mother do the same. Granted, Rowan was the only such individual in the room that was privy to such knowledge. Furthermore, most people in the know often assumed that the raindrops were directly at fault for playing into her mother's desires.

The truth of the matter is that they mostly just teased away her inhibitions. Nothing about the treat impaired her cognitively.

That is to say that it was all her, and the same could be said for Rowan. Both Talia and Alena had been vastly unprepared for the very handsy Rowan that followed shortly after her sampling of the raindrop. It was subtle at first, but as more and more of the raindrop worked its way into Rowan’s system, the more affectionate she became.

Fortunately, her affections were all directed at Alena in what was becoming a rather embarrassing display; one that Alena would have welcomed had they been in private. Even with Talia there, Rowan felt Alena leaning in to some of her advances.

By the time Tyris arrived, Rowan was flushed and breathing heavily whilst the other two were blushing furiously. Any and all conversation had ceased in the twenty minutes since Rowan politely devoured the raindrop.

Upon seeing what was happening and noticing the box of Alyren Raindrops, he took his wife aside and suggested they step away to make some lunch.

By the time they returned, a couple of hours had passed, and both Rowan and Alena were crimson with embarrassment.

Tyris only added to their embarrassment when he shook his head at them with mock disappointment. He further punctuated his teasing by adding, "Next time you plan on introducing me to a girlfriend or boyfriend, Rowan, please resolve any sexual tensions in private beforehand. I'm sure it couldn't wait, but there is such a thing as time and place."

"Don't tease her or Alena too much, Tyris. If any more blood rushes to their heads, we might have an international incident on our hands."

"Is that your recommendation as a doctor or my beloved wife, Talia?"

"Both," Talia replied seriously, though her tone betrayed that she was playing along in her own way.

"Well, if you insist, I'll forget it ever happened," Tyris said with his usual dramatic flair.

"I do! And either way, I'm the one who suggested Kaia prepare the raindrops. You said they were a family favourite after all."

"That's true," Tyris admitted. "It's just they also give rise to certain behaviours in a select few members of our family. Namely Rowan, though she was a lot more modest in her youth. Our mother was much the same, though she had the tact and self-awareness to preserve our innocence."

"I must admit that the doctor in me is curious. What are the mechanisms behind the effect? What are the active ingredients? Are there any pharmaceutical applications? How about ethical considerations? So many questions…"

The clinical interest that radiated from Talia held Rowan’s deepening blush in stasis whilst Alena’s fluctuated in confusion. Fortunately, Tyris took it upon himself to distract everyone from what had happened earlier by presenting a platter filled with bread and a selection of meats, cheeses, and chutneys.

Everyone was quiet as they ate lunch, which gave the atmosphere in the room a chance to settle down. Kaia returned briefly after they had finished to top everyone up on snacks and refreshments, this time without any raindrops, and to clear away the dishes from lunch.

Tyris cleared his throat shortly after Kaia left the room. "So, was there any particular reason behind your surprise visit? I'm not complaining, but I imagine you didn't just decide to introduce us to Alena on a whim."

"Not entirely," Rowan admitted.

"And you would have sent word ahead if you wanted me to introduce you to Talia, right?"

"Maybe?"

"You’re supposed to say 'yes' or something when asked something like that," Tyris teased dryly.

"But where's the charm in that? Happy surprises are the spice of life!"

Talia and Alena blushed simultaneously in response to Rowan’s comment, a skill they were quickly developing together, while Tyris just laughed.

"I don't think you know what that means, Rowan," Tyris said.

A few quick glances were enough to give Rowan the context clues she needed to formulate the various innuendos hidden within her accidental double entendre. Furthermore, with her newfound understanding, she was able to translate the subtle glances between her brother and Talia.

Before Rowan could reclaim the title of deepest blush, however, Tyris grappled the conversation back on track.

"So, what is it that brings you here?" Tyris asked. "Apart from the mutual introducing of loved ones, that is. Speaking of which, it's a pleasure to meet you, Alena. I realise this hasn't been to most standard of introductions, but I trust your newfound relationship with Rowan prepared you at least a wee bit."

"It did," Alena admitted. "And likewise, the pleasure of meeting you both is truly mine."

"Told you she was a lady," Talia interjected.

"I already knew, dearest. I met one of her brothers during a group training exercise between the Midiran, Særan, and Ferran navies a few years back."

"Really?" Rowan and Alena asked in near unison, the surprise in their voices clear for all to hear.

"Really. Lord Tian, if I remember correctly. He wasn't especially high-ranked at the time, so I wouldn’t usually commit him to memory, but he had some interesting ideas. One of them I even used in the campaign against the raiders."

The recognition in Alena’s eyes was enough of an answer, but it didn’t stop her from also saying, "That does sound like Tian, but how did you recognise I was his sister?"

"That would be because the resemblance isn't why I knew you were a noble," Tyris laughed. "Your name was thrown around after the ball, and I made the connection. You made a lot of people jealous that night, by the way. I wasn't even there, and I could tell from how certain people acted the next day."

"I think we're getting sidetracked again," Rowan interjected, not wanting the conversation to devolve into what people were saying after the ball.

"Right, yes," Tyris responded. "The floor is yours, littlest Rowan."

"I want you to train me," Rowan said plainly.

"How so?"

"Exercise. I feel so weak and unbalanced."

"I can certainly help you in that regard if you wish, but it doesn't explain the surprise visit."

"It was really frustrating her," Alena said.

"We could tell."

"Tyris!" Rowan exclaimed, absolutely mortified at what her brother was referencing.

"Sorry," he apologised, though it was clear that he was still teasing her.

Rowan waited a second for the moment to pass before explaining in full. "Seres and I will be going to Særis soon, and I want to be ready. We'll be visiting home as well. I need to be strong enough."

"Are you sure this is what you want?”

On the surface, it seemed as if his question was about Rowan's ultimate goal of Særis and being strong enough, but she knew he was really asking about home.

"I am."

"In that case, Talia, could you please keep Alena entertained while I get started with Rowan?"

"Of course."

"Then, with your permission, Alena, I'll be borrowing Rowan for a short while."

"I'm not going to get in the way of what she wants and needs."

"Perfect. Let's go, Rowan. We have a training hall at the back of the estate."

Chapter 26: The Next Step

"Ah ah choo."

Rowan woke up sneezing loudly from a wandering tail tickling her nose. Not exactly the most romantic start to the morning after your first time. Alas, there was no helping it as Alena had found her way into the nook of Rowan's armpit, and while she was fast asleep, purring away, her tail had a mind of its own.

Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, Rowan didn't need to be a tail whisperer to know that the rogue tail wanted to play. It was almost as if it was enacting whatever dreams Alena was having at the time. After rudely waking Rowan up, it decided that she was much in need of more tickling. She tried to escape without waking Alena up, only for Alena to nuzzle in closer.

It was incredibly adorable and incredibly inconvenient. In the end, Rowan had no choice other than to just lie there and enjoy the view. Not that she could really complain; it was a very nice view after all.

While looking at Alena's sleeping face, Rowan started to stroke her hair. Unfortunately, she was unable to do the heart-fluttering manoeuvre of pushing a lock of hair behind her ear like she had done all those years ago with Kiriin. Guilt flashed momentarily for thinking back to a lost love which in turn brought a hint of sadness. It only lasted a second, however, as Alena's ears twitched in the most adorable fashion believable, and as Rowan continued to stroke, Alena unconsciously reciprocated with purring.

After a few minutes of perfect bliss, Rowan heard someone enter the apartments. A knocking on the door soon followed.

"Lady Rowan?"

It was Avra, the maid.

Rowan panicked. She hadn't noticed before, not consciously at least, that neither she nor Alena were being granted any modesty by the wayward covers and they weren’t exactly dressed either. To make matters worse, the covers were well out of reach.

"Just a second," Rowan called out before whispering an apology to Alena.

Rowan then enacted her 'genius' spur-of-the-moment plan to achieve modesty. She stretched out in an attempt to grab onto the covers with her toes. Her foot started to cramp from the unnatural way she was using it. Thankfully though, the discomfort was worth it as she took hold of the covers and started to bring them up. Unfortunately, doing so required more disruptive movements and Alena started to stir. Rowan then hurried to get them both covered.

Now sitting up with the linen sheets loosely covering her chest, Rowan called out to Avra again.

"You can come in now."

"Right away."

And to her word, Avra swiftly entered the room, looking the very image of professionalism.

"How can I help?" Rowan asked.

"First of all, you and your guest have been invited to break fast with Her Majesty and the rest of the Royal family.”

Not just Seres, Rowan thought to herself, it's been a while since that happened.

"Secondly, I have arranged a change of clothes for your guest. I do believe that she would rather not wear a ball gown to breakfast.”

"How did you know she'd be here?"

"I know everything about those I serve."

That wasn't at all ominous.

"Furthermore, the whole palace is aware of your exploits from last night. Milady wasn't exactly subtle about the whole ordeal."

Ominous tidings forgotten. Now only blood-red embarrassment remained.

"It is fortunate that the rest of the Sunfall Apartments are without guests at this moment in time. I fear they would have had an even more intimate understanding of your late-night activities."

We weren't that loud, were we?

"Finally, Her Highness requested that I tease you on her behalf. I believe you have been sufficiently teased."

Avra let Rowan process the foul betrayal as Alena finally made her presence known. With her back to Avra and her face towards Rowan, she stretched and gave out the biggest yawn. It was almost as if she was emulating a lion's roar, except the sound she made was just the cutest. Then in a moment of inspiration, Alena settled down from her stretch, pulling down the sheets and, with her mouth still wide open, she nommed on Rowan’s exposed breast.

"I believe that is my cue to take my leave," said Avra as Rowan once again turned crimson.

*****

With Alena dressed in one of her more casual dresses and Rowan in a tunic which was practically a minidress and pair of leggings, the two girls made their way to the Dawn Wing for breakfast.

"Is it really okay for me to be here?" Alena asked.

Rowan rolled her eyes at that.

"The Queen invited you as well. Who cares if it's as a plus one?"

"But I'm only a lesser noble, all things considered."

"And?"

"It's not proper."

"It's no less proper than me being there."

"You do realise that you were given a title on par with an earl, maybe even a duke, last night, just without the land, though I imagine that will come later."

Rowan wasn’t sure exactly how she was supposed to process that information. She knew that the titles were a big deal, but not that much of a big deal.

"Of course, that's just one of your new titles. The other is a bigger mystery. As far as I'm aware, there hasn't been someone granted the title of Ardent Flame in over a thousand years."

"Well, I didn't have those titles when I first met the Queen. And I'm definitely not worthy of being the Ardent Flame if it's so prestigious."

"Yet here we are."

"Well as Ardent Flame, I say it's okay."

"But…"

"No buts. You don't get to have sex with me and then chicken out at breakfast."

Alena didn't have a response to that. Instead, Rowan took her hand softly into her own and walked forward with confidence.

The rest of the trip took place without much in the way of complaints from Alena. If anything, it was largely uneventful with the exception of garnering a few looks and that was more due to Rowan than there being a couple of girls walking romantically hand in hand.

A maid was waiting for them at the entrance to the large private dining room of the Royal family. She curtsied to them before opening the door and announcing their arrival.

On entering, Rowan was completely unsurprised to see Seres, Queen Elarin, Princess Elia, and Prince Rikta. What was more surprising is that they weren’t the only people there, not counting servants. Behind the Queen stood a familiar duo, the Awakened Pair that had stood guard whenever Rowan was handling Elan Fiir.

Across from them sat a human woman who was likely in her early thirties and had midnight blue hair with azure highlights. Rowan guessed that she was the first princess of Særis, in part because of her hair, but mostly because Brennan and his partner were standing guard behind her. To the princess' left there were a pair of younger Ferran males, likely the Ferran princes. They seemed to be of similar ages to Seres and Princess Elia and both had russet hair touched with white, notably on the tips of their ears.

As Rowan had the sudden realisation that there may end up being more to this breakfast than she had believed, Queen Elarin gave both her and Alena a warm smile and said, "Good morning, Rowan, Lady Alena. Might I introduce you to our guests? This is Princess Yona of Særis and to her left are Prince Tomas and Prince Kiaran, the eldest and youngest children of the Prince Sovereign of Ferran, respectively. Princess Yona, Prince Tomas, Prince Kiaran, this is Lady Rowan'efrii, the Ardent Flame, and her newfound partner, Lady Alena of House Del’mein."

Alena immediately curtsied to everyone, showing particular deference to the two princes of Ferran. Rowan also curtsied to everyone. If it were just the Royal family, she would have settled with a slight bow of the head with how the Queen had insisted she didn't need to be so formal. The presence of guests, however, changed everything. Rowan had to be on her best behaviour. She wasn’t hopeful.

"Good morning, Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, and to your illuminated guests."

Immediately after greeting everyone, Rowan felt like she had just said something extremely cringe worthy. She wanted to sound polite and sophisticated. Instead, she sounded like a perfumed sycophant or worse, a flowery buffoon. She just knew it. She just...

"Why are they holding hands, Mother?"

Illusion shattered. In just a few words, the great Ardent Flame of Midiris was slain by the mighty Prince Rikta. Why? Rowan didn't know why. Something about his tone, maybe? Or perhaps it was his inquisitive gaze. Either way, Rowan wasn’t looking forward to the answer. It seemed like Alena wasn't doing much better.

Unfortunately, the Queen was all too happy to answer her unreasonably adorable demon child and from the looks of it, he wasn’t the only person who wanted to know.

Queen Elarin gave Prince Rikta a sage look and told him, "You see, dear. Lady Rowan and Lady Alena are very close friends and…"

"Just say it how it is, Mother," interrupted Seres with a surprising hint of annoyance. "Leave the sugar-coating to the historians."

Rowan heard a slight chuckle to her left. Part of her wanted to glance over to see who it was. The other, more dominant side, however, was enraptured in stunned silence.

Following the rogue laughter, Seres fully took on the reins of explaining the Rowan and Alena situation before her mother could fill Prince Rikta's head with unnecessary, partial truths.

"What Mother meant to say, Rikta, is that they like each other romantically and hand-holding is a sign of affection between loved ones."

"But they aren't men?"

The facepalm was immediate as was the laughter on the left. The laughter was in turn followed by what Rowan could only assume was a slap and a yelp.

Rowan had to look that time. Prince Kiara was rubbing the back of his head whilst Tomas seemed completely unphased and was sitting patiently.

How did he get his hand back so quickly?

Meanwhile, Princess Yona was clearly veiling a smirk behind a napkin.

Turning to look at the other guests had another purpose as well in that it gave Rowan the chance to see what Alena's reaction to the whole sequence of events was. Shocked. Mortified. Confused. Horrified. All were apt descriptors of Alena's expression at that exact moment of time. Rowan decided to give her a slight nudge in the right direction, which is to say guide her to their seats. It was all she could do to not be stunned into catatonia herself.

Meanwhile, Queen Elarin seemed perfectly happy to let Seres finish what she had started. It was almost cruel in a 'not really but you took responsibility by interrupting' way. Thankfully, Seres regained her composure as Rowan and Alena took their seats.

Removing her palm from her face, Seres decided to get right to the root of the issue by asking, "What do you think romance is, Rikta?"

"It's what men do to make people like them and want to get married so that they can have babies."

An exchange of looks immediately followed that was a conversation in their own right.

Seriously? - Seres.

Not my job - Elia.

He's too young for the talk - Elarin.

He's nine! - Seres.

Admittedly, that last one was a guess from how exasperated Seres looked. After the quick silent conversation, Seres turned back to Rikta.

"Okay, I've just got a couple more questions," she told him. "First, do you think a man can be romantic towards another man?"

Prince Rikta rolled his eyes. "Obviously."

"That's right. Do you think two men can have a baby together without any extenuating circumstances?"

"If they get married."

"Let me just put that answer to the side. How about a woman being romantic towards a man?"

"No."

He said it with such confidence that Rowan wasn’t sure how to process it. So many gaps. From the looks of it, Seres was on the verge of tearing her hair out. After a few breaths, however, she turned to their guests and apologised.

"It seems that my younger brother has a few gaps in his education and I'm sorry you all had to witness the discovery of such. I'll have to amend this at a later date. Until then. Rikta."

"Yes?"

"Romance refers to a special kind of love and intimacy between two people as well as the expression of those feelings. It can be initiated by anyone, not just men. And romance doesn't necessarily lead to marriage and babies can occur independently of marriage. I'll tell you more soon enough. Understand?"

"Yes," Rikta nodded glumly.

"Excellent. I think now might be a good time to eat, don't you, Mother?"

"Indeed," Queen Elarin answered before giving the servants a quick nod. They swept immediately into action and breakfast was served within moments.

It was clear that extra care had been put into the meal as it was not only for the Royal family but visiting royals as well.

"This is delicious," the Særan princess announced, speaking for the first time since Rowan and Alena had entered the room. She spoke with a mature timbre that gave her a strong presence on top of her rather unique appearance.

"I'm glad it is to your liking, Princess Yona," Queen Elarin smiled, "this is a favourite of mine. How about you, Prince Tomas? Prince Kiaran?"

Prince Tomas answered first with a polite nod. "It is indeed an exquisite dish. The balance is divine."

Kiaran was next. "I think my actions speak louder than words." He was already finished and his plate was sparking.

Rowan was amazed. She hadn't even seen him touch his silverware, yet here he was.

Did he inhale it or something?

"Indeed," Queen Elarin responded. "With that said, I think it is time to bring up why I wished for you all to meet today."

That got everyone's attention.

"As you all know, my daughter here, Seres, was kidnapped roughly five years ago, as were Lady Rowan and countless others."

The three visiting royals nodded at that.

"From what Seres and Lady Rowan have told me, young adolescents were taken from across Llen Fær, Sæeis, and Ferran over the course of several years to a series of caves underneath the Earldom of Fendras near the great fjord. The purpose? To enslave and torture them until they Awakened. It is clear to me that someone is engineering an army of Awakened soldiers for some foul scheme. I'm sure we can all agree that this is of grave concern to us all."

Another round of nodding. Princess Yona looked pale at the implications while Tomas maintained a level expression. Kiaran on the other hand looked to be a mix of fear and excitement. He may be seventeen or so, but the idea of epic battle and adventure clearly appealed to him.

"With that in mind, it has also been brought to my attention that Lord Feilan Takiir, Earl of Fendras, is involved and was taking advantage of many young female prisoners."

"That is a serious accusation, Your Majesty," Princess Yona interjected.

"And one that will need to be thoroughly investigated, as will this entire operation. Between us, we only have so many Awakened individuals to combat this threat. Especially when we don't know where the main operation is based or where they are targeting. With that in mind, I would like to request that Lady Rowan and Seres be permitted to serve as my representatives on the mainland for the investigation and execution of the threat."

"I'm sure that can be arranged," Yona replied.

"Agreed," Tomas added.

"Umm," Rowan interrupted, "Would it be okay if I visit my family first? I need to see my father and find my sister."

"Of course," Elarin answered.

"Not alone you aren't," Seres interrupted, shaking her head. Rowan gave her a betrayed look. Seres only smiled and added, "I'm going with you."

Alena giggled on Rowan’s other flank. "You didn't think she was going to leave you alone, did you? I wish I could go with you as well, but we've already been away from the university for far too long. Promise me you'll visit me?"

"Of course I will," Rowan blushed.

"Looks like Rowan is ready to tie the knot," Seres teased.

"I am not!" said Rowan a little bit too loudly.

"Remember where we are, Rowan," chided Alena.

"Oh sorry."

"I can definitely see the Ardent in her," Yona laughed.

"This is tame," Seres replied with laughter of her own.

Rowan gave her an accusative look and with several notes of mock betrayal, exclaimed, "Traitor!"

"Oh to be young," Queen Elarin sighed. "However, before that goes any further I must bring the conversation back on course. Rowan."

"Yes?"

"Last night, I granted you the title of Ardent Flame. If I'm being truthful, you aren't ready for it. You are the third person in the history of Llen Fær to be granted the title and it is not done lightly."

"Then why?"

"Because I've seen your strength and your passion. In time, you will grow to become a legend in your own right, just like those who came before you. With that in mind, I grant you full leave to carry Elan Fiir as you see fit."

"Thank you," Rowan replied meekly.

"Finally, here is the Seal of the Ardent Flame. It is a relic from the first Ardent Flame; forged with his very soul. When you are ready, you will learn to unlock its secrets. Until then, it will serve as a symbol of your nobility."

Queen Elarin presented the small, golden red medallion to Rowan. The design seemed simple at first; a blazing sun, but the more Rowan looked at it, the more the flames seemed to flicker and the more colours she found within. It was also warm to the touch.

The conversation for the rest of the breakfast was mostly on logistics. Eventually,  Rowan and Alena excused themselves to spend some time together while Seres took her younger brother aside to give him a more rounded education on sex and romance.

Overall, it was a quiet day. A calm before the storm. Alena would be leaving soon, as were the rest of her party. It also seemed as if all the prisoners desiring passage to Særis would be leaving as well. That included both Amran and Maro. In a sense, it was sad news, but at the same time, she would be making her way to the Azure City. Before then, however, she was going home.

Rowan was finally going home.

Interlude: A Voice on the Wind

Two river petals and a dawn flower to go and Tehri's bouquet would be complete.  She had spent the entire morning picking out flowers from the now surprisingly abundant flower garden that she had been tending to for the past four years. It wasn’t much but it let her stretch her creative juices without being overly expensive; which is to say it cost nothing other than time and a few seeds, most of which Tehri had harvested herself.

At some point in the future, Tehri wanted to learn how to make pigments and, by extension, paint from her flowers so that she could get back to painting properly. Hana and Byrden had tried getting her some when they discovered her artistic nature, but it proved to be unreasonably challenging. For one, paint was significantly more expensive than Tehri had ever realised and the supplies weren't much better. Second of all was the fact that it wasn't exactly high on the stock lists of any of the merchants that stopped by the village.

At some point they managed to acquire a few paints for Tehri, hoping that it would help her first major bout of depression in their care. It had happened not long after they had told her about her mother's fate. At first, she was manic at the news.

It was a dangerous time for her; mania and grief don't mix well, especially when the person cannot do much of anything physical to distract themselves. To make matters worse, Tehri didn't care that she had a weak constitution or that she was still recovering. Instead, she pushed herself, almost as if she was seeking pain. At one point, she even jumped off of one of the taller buildings.

To this day, she isn't sure why she did it, but when it happened, she crashed both figuratively and literally.

Hana and Byrden were terrified when it happened and they were even less equipped to deal with the depression that followed. One of their attempted solutions was the aforementioned paints.

Fortunately, she had only broken one of her arms from the fall, so she was able to make use of them and it did help slightly. What she really needed, however, was time and maybe some of her medicine from home. Unfortunately, the latter was well out of her reach. Time, however, was in ample supply, even if it filled her guardians with dread.

Tehri's mood started to improve as spring approached. When it was good enough, she did one last painting and then made Hana and Byrden promise that they wouldn't buy her any more supplies. She refused to be a drain on their resources. From that day, she started helping out with chores as best as she could which is what led her to the garden.

In time, it grew to become her new artistic venture. It may not have been painting, but it made her happy enough. As an added bonus, Hana was particularly fond of the bouquets that Tehri created. In fact, Hana was the recipient of the one she was working on that morning.

The occasion? Hana had just discovered that she was pregnant with her first child. It was news worthy of celebration and Tehri wanted to do her part. This was the least she could do, especially when her competition was Byrden who had discovered a way to be over both moons at once.

With the dawn flower picked, Tehri made her way inside the house; it had grown over the years. Not by much, but enough that they could more comfortably accommodate for the family they were planning. Tehri felt a little guilty about that because, without her, the house would have already been big enough for a couple of children if she hadn't been there. Alas, Tehri had taken the only spare bedroom in the house. Now, however, there were an additional two rooms that had been built into the side of the house. Tehri looked forward to the day that they would eventually see use. Today, however, was not that day.

Tehri found Hana in the kitchen trying her latest creation. She had been told by some of the other women to expect weird cravings when she eventually got pregnant and now that she was, it seemed like she was overcompensating for a lack of any by creating various weird and wacky dishes.

Tehri gave the wall a slight knock to get her attention right as she was giving her creation a taste. That was unintentional on Tehri's part as was what came next. Hana dropped the spoon and started sputtering almost immediately. Panicking, Tehri placed the bouquet down on the table and rushed over. She signed quickly to say, Sorry, are you okay?

Sign language was a useful skill and one all three of them had learned together after a merchant had suggested it to them. It made communication between them significantly faster and a lot more convenient which was important in times like this.

Seeing the signs, Hana did her best to compose herself and respond. After a moment or two she managed to respond with, "I'm okay. You just surprised me is all."

I didn't mean to, Tehri signed back, I just wanted to show you these flowers. They're for you and the baby.

"That's really sweet, thank you. Though I think it might be a bit premature to start getting the baby flowers.”

I know that!

"True enough. Care to try some of this soup?"

Tehri's face paled at the proposition; Hana's dishes had become a game of chance. On one hand, it could be delicious, and on the other, it could be congealed frog jelly soup with pickled River slugs or worse. Even so, if it made her happy, Tehri dared risk it.

Hana handed her a small tasting bowl and ladled in some of the soup. It didn't look too threatening. If anything it looked to be a rather unassuming creamy yellow. It even had a mellow aroma that made Tehri even more suspicious. Alas, it was too late for her to back away now so she touched the bowl to her lips and tilted it back.

Tehri's eyes widened in surprise as the soup hit her tongue. She could taste the gentle and earthy notes of potato and celeriac. Something was wrong. It was far too normal; there had to be something else. She had to try it again to be sure. Then it came. Tehri started to feel a rising heat from the soup, one that threatened to bring her to tears. Only the tears never came. Instead, the heat had been tempered by the creaminess of the soup in a way that Tehri didn't even realise was possible. She also didn’t realise that she was smiling.

"I'm glad that you like it," Hana beamed. "Though I can tell that you're a little surprised. Don't worry. I've got an extra spicy version that I'll be sharing with the other mothers in the village later this week. They won't know what hit them."

Tehri couldn't help but laugh at Hana's devilish plan, even if it scared her a little.

"Oh yeah, before I forget. Would you be able to do me a favour, Tehri?"

In response, Tehri gave her a quizzical look.

"I need a couple of things from the market. Do you mind picking them up for me? I've got a list and the money is already prepared."

I can do that, no problem.

"You're a lifesaver. One of the stalls closes at noon and it won't be open again for another two weeks. There's a little extra money in the pouch, so use it to treat yourself.

Thank you.

*****

It was a relatively short walk to the market even with Hana and Byrden's house being on the far side of the village. If Hana wasn't still working on her soup or needing to do chores around the house, she could have probably made it in plenty of time. Even if that was the case, however, and Hana was just lazing around, Tehri would still have obliged. She liked being outside and doing a little shopping wouldn’t strain her too much.

When she arrived at the market, she went looking for the stall that was due to close early. It was manned by a wizened hermit of a man with long unkempt greying brown hair and a similarly 'styled' beard. That is to say, Tehri hoped his hair was brown. It was difficult to tell and the twigs that decorated it didn't help. Neither did the earthy aroma that he gave off or the fact that Tehri didn't recognise him at all. In spite of that, he looked clean enough.

As for what he sold, Tehri could see a plethora of herbs and fungi, many of which were still in the dirt from which they had grown. Tehri recognised some of his wares, but most were beyond her.

The man looked over at Tehri as she approached and straightened slightly. He then called to her and asked, "What can I do you, little miss?" with a voice like moving earth.

Tehri handed him the list, hoping that he could read. She was doubtful; comprehensive reading skills weren't exactly common in the village.

He mused over the list for a second and then peered over it to look down at Tehri. "Are you sure this is what you want, little miss?"

Tehri nodded.

"Then I hope you are prepared for the consequences."

The man's tone in saying that was far too ominous for Tehri's liking. She tried to sign for clarification but he only gave her a confused look.

As she flailed about, someone else called out to her. A golden-haired boy approached them from across the market. He was around the same age as Tehri, and well built with a smile that could melt even the coldest of hearts. He was also one of Tehri's few friends and the only one who had gone out of their way to learn sign language.

Hi, Kamren, Tehri signed to him.

The wizened man gave him a knowing glance and said, "This must be the father."

Tehri gave the man a horrified look. It may have been true that Tehri liked Kamren and that they had even kissed, but father?

Kamren had a similar reaction, only he voiced it.

"The young miss is purchasing mother's wort, elden root, and milker's truth cap. These are all highly effective natal supplements and remedies to help with the early stages of pregnancy."

In that instant, everything became clear. Tehri started signing to Kamren so that he could translate for her.

"These aren't for me, they're for my guardian, Hana. It's her first child."

After clarifying for Tehri, Kamren realised what he had just said. He turned to her and asked, "Since when?"

Last month? Tehri answered.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

We only found out a week or so ago.

"But you just said…"

You do know that it takes some time after you do the deed to learn the results, don't you?

"Yes?" answered Kamren with absolutely zero confidence.

You're hopeless.

"This is all very nice," the man interjected, "and I apologise for the mistake, but we should continue. Noon fast approaches."

Tehri nodded and asked how much it would cost.

"Two wheat and seven pennies," the man answered. It was a colloquial way of saying two bronze coins and seven copper pennies.

Tehri handed him the coins and he prepared the goods with a loving, delicate touch. He wrapped each bundle of herbs in cloth and placed the fungi in small wicker boxes before loading everything into a canvas bag. Kamren took the bag for Tehri and offered to join her for the rest of the venture.

*****

Some time later they found a quiet place out of the way to take a break. Tehri had bought them a little snack in the form of shimmer-grilled vegetables for them to eat with the extra money that Hana had given her.

While they were eating, Kamren prompted a conversation by saying, "Did you hear the rumours from the capital about the missing princess and how they hosted a massive party to celebrate her return?"

No?  Tehri replied.

"It was the talk of the market all morning. Apparently, she had been kidnapped or something all those years ago along with a bunch of other people. Something about those raiders. Anyway, they managed to escape and find their way back. One of them was given a really old title from way back when, but I don't know why. I think it might have been something to do with them being an Ardent. All I know for sure is their last name is really similar to yours."

The news hit Tehri like a landslide. Her hand drifted to the bracelet on her wrist. She dared not hope.

What was their name? she asked.

"Nairiir? Neiliir? Something like that."

Tehri's heart jumped. She dared not hope, but after hearing those names, it was obvious how you could get to either one from Naliir. And on top of that, they're supposedly an Ardent who was captured by the raiders. Tehri dared to hope.

She forgot about the shopping and ran back to the house. Kamren shouted after her, but his words landed on deaf ears.

Minutes later she threw the front door open to find a startled Hana.

"Tehri? What's going on?"

My sister! She's free!

"Say again?"

My sister is in the capital. She escaped with the princess!

"How do you know that?"

The merchants were talking and they said her name. Our name. They said Naliir or some close enough approximation of it.

Hana was speechless. If it was true, it was incredible news. Even so, she wasn't sure what they could do about it. Midiris was so incredibly far away. That's how it seemed to her at least. Granted, the furthest she had ever been from Aran Village was Talaran City. The only thing she could think of was sending a letter and praying it reached her. Before she could suggest it to Tehri, however, someone else came barging through the door.

Kamren was breathing heavily, trying not to drop all the wares he was carrying.

"You forgot the shopping, Tehri."

And with that, the moment was, for the time being, lost.

Chapter 25: The Ball (Censored)

Not a moment had passed after the two girls had sat down for breakfast that Seres started to inquire about Rowan's dawn-time exhibitionism.

"You don't need to answer me, Rowan, but why did you decide to present yourself to gardeners in the nude?"

"That wasn't my intent," Rowan answered with a face redder than the tomatoes on her plate.

"Oh?"

"Well not exactly."

The inquisitive look that Seres gave her made it clear that, despite the initial disclaimer, she had no intention of letting this go. As such, Rowan decided that there was no helping it.

"Okay, so I was trying to talk with my dead sister and it's really difficult when I'm not in an emotionally heightened state so I thought making myself super embarrassed would work because I was already slightly embarrassed from having a lewd dream last night which resulted in me accidentally squirting all over the bed."

The words came in an awkward, breathless stream that bombarded the ears of everyone in the room, including all of the servants and Seres’ guards. Unsurprisingly and somewhat amusingly, it caught most of the people by surprise. One of the servants, who had managed to maintain his cool for most of the conversation, nearly dropped the platter he was holding. Even Seres was blushing.

“That was probably a bit too much information, Rowan,” prodded Seres from behind a pair of hands that only slightly veiled her flustered expression.

“What was?” Rowan replied before realising what she had just said. "Oh. Oh no. Please forget what I just said. All of it."

"I wish I could," responded Seres.

For several minutes, awkward silence filled the room. The only sounds to be heard were the clinking of silverware on porcelain and chewing. It only made Rowan feel even more self-conscious about everything, even things completely unrelated to current goings on. Was she chewing too loud? Did her hair look weird? Was she about to confess her wildest fantasies? That kind of thing.

The room grew dark and cold. Rowan felt her anxiety levels rise. Everyone was watching. They knew.

*Clink*

Rowan's heart skipped a beat. She froze. Then a hand touched her own. Rowan was back in the moment. Seres was smiling softly at her.

"It's okay, Rowan," she said, "you're safe here. I won’t let anyone hurt you."

Not quite believing her, Rowan looked around the room and true enough, the servants were focused on their work instead of her. If anything, they were acting as if Rowan's little outburst had never even happened.

"Do you really mean it?" asked Rowan after turning back to Seres with watery eyes.

"Of course, I do, you hopeless softie of an Ardent. I can't have you breaking down when we have a party ahead of us. Now is the time to celebrate and have fun."

"I guess you're right," said Rowan quietly.

"Even if I wasn't, I would make it so by royal decree," replied Seres with a brilliant smile.

Rowan gave her a look of mock horror. "You cannae do that," she said.

"Watch me. What good is privilege if you don’t use it to help people?"

"I guess?" answered Rowan, not quite sure of how she was supposed to respond.

"It's fine. Now hurry up and finish eating. You've still got half a plate of food and we need to start getting ready."

"Already? But it's still morning? The ball isn't until this evening."

Seres gave Rowan a look and laughed brightly. In response, Rowan felt a heavy frown upon her lips. She couldn’t help but feel like she was missing something.

"After all the prep we've already done, did you really think that we would only be at it for an hour or something today?" Seres asked finally.

"I hadn't really given it much thought to be honest," Rowan answered.

"Well we still need to bathe, visit the sauna, get a full body massage, do a full set of stretches, rinse off, eat lunch, have our nails and makeup done, and our hair cut and styled. Only then can we get dressed and make the final adjustments."

Rowan gave Seres a concerned look as she finished off listing everything that they still needed to do. "That sounds like a lot," said Rowan hesitantly.

"It'll be worth it, I promise," responded Seres.

"One last question."

"Go on?"

"Was that list in order or?"

"Ideally yes. It would be a bit awkward if we bathed after we had our makeup done or rinsed off before bathing."

"That's not what I meant!" Rowan pouted.

"It wasn’t?" Seres replied with mock surprise. "How careless of me. Now eat up. We have just under an hour before we need to start if we don't want to rush ourselves."

*****

Several hours later Rowan was waiting around in nervous trepidation alongside Seres for the signal that would summon them to the ball. Normally they would already be there. However, as the ball was meant to celebrate Seres' return and rescue, custom dictated that she was to wait until the guests had settled in, at which point she would be announced. Furthermore, Seres had insisted that Rowan receive the same treatment on account of being her friend and saviour. Queen Elarin didn't need much convincing either. Apparently, the others were also being announced if they so desired because of their roles in the escape and bringing Seres home.

It was a nerve-racking wait that was heightened by Rowan's abundant energy levels. The excitement combined with the strange lunch that they had had provided her with more vigour than she could reasonably handle. Seres was doing a better job of hiding it but Rowan could tell that she was nervous and excited as well.

"Is it always like this?" Rowan asked finally.

"I'm not sure," Seres answered. "The last time I was in this position was my eleventh birthday so it isn’t exactly the freshest of memories."

"Sorry."

"Why are you apologising, silly?"

"I don't know."

"Well stop it. It's almost time. How do I look?"

"Am I really the person to be answering that?"

"Why not? Is my honorary sister incapable of giving her opinion or should I be asking my non-existent partner or something?"

"Well if you really want my opinion, you look absolutely stunning." Rowan wasn’t lying either.

Seres glowed with the gentle touch of makeup which only added to her already perfect skin. Meanwhile, her hair had been caught in an elegantly messy bun with a crown braid that kept her pale shoulders untouched by unruly locks. The hair and makeup alone would have been enough to make her truly beautiful, but they were only the beginning.

Next came what some would argue was the centrepiece of the entire look. That being the dress. Rowan was inclined to disagree, thinking rather that Seres in her entirety earned that honour. That isn't to say the dress wasn't incredible; it was. In fact, incredible only began to describe the dress and its heart-shaped neckline and long flowing skirt. It was of a deep azure and accented with gold, much like her namesake of lapis lazuli. The colours paired perfectly with her eyes, which was unsurprising really, considering they were the reason behind the name. About her waist, she wore a short black corset that came up to just beneath the bust. The dress had an opening for Seres' tail near the base of the corset as it transitioned into the skirt which trailed along gracefully behind her while showing off her ankles and high-heeled shoes.

Besides her dress, Seres also wore a small selection of jewellery in the form of a necklace, a series of bracelets, a couple of rings, and a silver tiara. The necklace served as a contrast to the rest of her outfit by means of a crimson gem which doubled as an aesthetic link to Rowan. To add to that link, one of Seres' rings was a twin to one that Rowan was wearing.

Finally, due to the cut of her dress, the top of Seres' back, and by extension, her scars were exposed. To cover her scars she wore a deep blue shawl.

After taking it all in, Rowan gave Seres a smile and a twirl before asking, "What about me?"

Rowan's look had been taken in a completely different direction from Seres’. Even so, the idea behind it was the same, to highlight Rowan's character. Compared to Seres, Rowan's hair was much shorter, reaching down only to her shoulder. As such, her stylists opted to keep her hair down while weaving some braids and crystalline flowers into her gentle windswept waves. The flowers took the place of a tiara and served to bring even more attention to her brilliant red hair. Meanwhile, her make-up was designed to capitalise on that draw to create a full picture that highlighted her features perfectly. From the small wings and the touch of smokiness that gave incredible depth to her violet Ferran eyes to the soft blush and rose lips for contrast with her alabaster skin.

Adding to her image was her brilliant red dress that had been designed to ripple like fire. The flame aesthetic was further complimented by the secondary and accent colours, though the dressmakers had made sure to keep it from being too much. Compared to Seres' dress, Rowan's had a low back, showing the full extent of her scars and she lacked a shawl to cover them. That had been her decision; she wanted to show everyone what they had been through, what they had survived.

Of course, this meant that the dress couldn't be held up around the bust or with shoulder straps. Instead, the straps were caught in a choker at the neck with a window of fiery lace. Instead of a necklace, a single teardrop gem hung from the choker.

As for the skirt, it was made from a light flower material that ended just below the knee and flared as Rowan twirled. This in combination with the colour is what truly gave the aesthetic of flame whilst giving Rowan full fluidity of motion which was important due to how dynamic she could be. To compliment her dress, she wore a flat pair of red shoes that laced up her ankles with ribbon and a single arm ring around her right bicep.

When Rowan came to a stop, Seres laughed warmly and said, "You look great, Rowan. Perfect even."

"Thank you," said Rowan with a soft blush.

Seres then gave her a serious look and cautioned her, "Don't be surprised if you draw the attention of many a bachelor or maybe even a few bachelorettes. And be careful not to get caught in the moment or let yourself get overwhelmed."

"I appreciate the heads up, but isn't this a new experience for you as well?"

"Well yes. I'm just repeating the same warning that my sister gave me. Though she only told me the second half. I added the part about the suitors myself."

Rowan gave Seres a slight pout. "Don't give me that, Seres. You're just as, if not more, worthy of suitors than I am. I'm sure you'll get as much attention as I do."

"I'll definitely get a lot of attention, but courting works a little differently when it comes to princesses."

"Why would that be?" Rowan asked.

"Because of how valuable we are politically."

"Do you really think your mother would force you into a political marriage after all you've been through?"

"No," Seres admitted, "but the court doesn't know that and they'll follow tradition."

"Sounds stupid to me," Rowan snorted.

"Not as stupid as the sound you just made," Seres laughed. "Seriously though, I'm happy that I'll be able to enjoy the ball without needing to worry about that. And it's not like people won't ask me to dance or anything."

"That's good at least. And if they don't, I'll show everyone what they're missing."

"You don't need to do anything that extreme."

"What else is a beautiful Ardent to do when her honorary sister is neglected?" asked Rowan seriously.

Seres returned the look as best she could before falling to laughter. When she looked up again, Rowan was also laughing.

Their laughter was interrupted by a knock on the door. "It is time, Your Highness," said a maid on the other side.

"Right away," Seres replied before turning to Rowan. "Shall we?"

"Let’s."

*****

"Honoured guests," cried a herald, his voice amplified via Resonance Crystal so that even Rowan and Seres could hear it from outside, "it is with great pride and privilege that I am able to welcome our lost princess home. Join me in welcoming Her Royal Highness, Seres Talyren El Ria Lanafae, Princess of the Dawn."

What followed was an earthshaking cheer that rippled through the city, marking the official start of celebrations for the common folk. Inside, however, the herald was not finished.

"I also have the honour of introducing the woman who sacrificed everything to keep our beloved princess safe from damnation and bring her home. Join me in giving your thanks to Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir, Ardent Protector."

The cheer for Rowan was no less than what Seres had been given, though arguably they were both for her. Even so it lit a fire in Rowan's heart. When the doors opened, she was raring to go.

Then she saw the great hall, her jaw nearly hit the floor, both literally and figuratively. The room felt like it had been built for giants. Either that or the people within were the size of pygmies for they were completely dwarfed by the incredibly bodacious architecture and grand decorations. Adding almost unreasonably to the effect were the floating network of platforms above the main floor that also served as large crystalline lights. Even after seeing the statues in the garden earlier, Rowan would never have imagined such a gravity-defying feat was possible. Even Seres seemed like she had been taken completely aback by the sight.

"That's new," she whispered, barely moving her lips as they strode forward.

"What is?" Rowan asked.

"The platforms."

"You don't think they did this just for us, do you?"

"Not a chance. There's no way this just happened out of the blue. I'll ask my mother some other time. Speaking of which, we're meant to present ourselves to her."

"Lead the way."

Seres took them straight through the middle of the main floor past the nobles who had been dancing before the announcement. Each one bowed or curtsied as they passed. When they reached the other side, they ascended a grand flight of stairs to the only platform not raised by Gravitational Resonance. The platform was large in its own right and decorated lavishly in the royal colours of Llen Fær, red and silver with an accent of gold. They found Queen Elarin at the centre-back of the platform flanked by the rest of her family and her attendants.

Seres stepped forward and spoke so that her voice would carry. "Your Majesty,  after many years I have returned home."

In response, Queen Elarin stood and bowed her head slightly. "Welcome home, Seres, my daughter. And to you, Rowan'efrii, I thank you for returning my daughter to me. To show my gratitude I extend to you the titles of An'Fær and Ardent Flame of Midiris along with an invitation to my court."

Rowan curtsied and gave her answer. "I wholeheartedly accept."

"Then let it be known that Rowan'efrii of House Naliir is a lady in more than name. She is truly worthy of our gratitude as are all who spearheaded the rescue and return of my daughter and her compatriots. As for those who escaped alongside them, they are deserving of our aid. The crown will do its part. I ask that you all do the same. Last of all, the crown is committed to doing what it can to put an end to the foul plot that haunts our lands and those of our brothers and sisters to the East. As for you, Lady Rowan, I ask that you continue to be my daughter's friend, ally, and protector."

"Of course, Your Majesty. I wouldn't have it any other way."

With Rowan's answer given and Queen Elarin's declaration made, the hall fell silent. Rowan had been given a tremendous honour, one that hadn't been given even in the lifetime of the oldest living nobles of Midiris. Before the silence became overbearing, however, the music started again and people returned to their socialising.

With everything back to normal,  Queen Elarin gave Rowan and Seres a smile. "Now go enjoy yourselves," she said, notably quieter than before. "This ball is for you, after all."

Having been given leave, the two girls descended into the ball, ready to partake in all that the festivities had to offer. It was slow going right at the beginning as everyone wanted to speak to Seres who felt obligated to share at least a few words with everyone who approached her. Not wanting to leave her to the wolves, Rowan stayed by her side. That's what she told herself at least. It totally wasn't because she was intimidated. Even so, she could only handle the endless sharing of pleasantries for so long as it eventually got to the point that she was visibly agitated to those who knew what to look for.

During a brief pause in the exchange, Seres gave Rowan a quick glance and said, "You don't need to stay here, glued to my side, you know."

"I do, but…"

"Go and party already. I'll find a way to free myself before too long and I'd rather not do it by way of you scaring everyone away."

"Sorry," replied a glum Rowan.

"Just have fun. Consider it an order."

"A royal one?"

"Of course not. It's an order between friends. That means you have to follow it."

"Is that how it works?" Rowan laughed.

"It is today," Seres answered with mock seriousness. "Now hurry up. Someone is coming to greet me."

"Fine," said Rowan with a rolling of her eyes. "Just promise to come find me if you need rescuing."

"Rowan!"

"I'm going."

Rowan was laughing as she took her leave. And then she realised that she had no idea what she was supposed to do even after all the prep and drilling she had done with Seres. A ball was, after all, completely different from the festivals of her youth. It would have been different if she knew anyone, but she was surrounded by strangers who were in their social element. Only that wasn't entirely true; there were people here that she knew. At least, there were meant to be.

With a bit of hope, Rowan cast her gaze across the main floor. As she did she caught a glimpse of Maro in a relatively simple light blue dress dancing with a young man. Across from them, Ædarik and Ashlin were also dancing. They both looked incredible in their formal attire. In any other setting, Ashlin may have been a showstopper with her dress of midnight purple and glistening nebulae. Alas, she had some strong competition and Rowan wasn’t going to go without a fight. Granted, it seemed like Ashlin already had a prize. If anything, it made Rowan a little jealous.

Not wanting to dwell on that, she continued to look for someone who was free. Sure enough, she eventually found Amran rather out of the way to the side. Somewhat unsurprisingly, he was on his own and dressed in rather subdued formal wear. Rowan navigated her way across to him with only a little difficulty.

When she reached him, Rowan announced herself in a rather unconventional way by saying, "Knock knock."

Amran looked up and gave Rowan a dry smile as he responded. "You know, I'd have known it was you even if you hadn’t said anything. Your emotions are like a beacon."

"Nice to see you too."

"I'm surprised you found the time to come see me."

"I meant to visit you sooner, but…"

"You've been busy. I know. I'm not complaining."

"You sound like you're complaining."

"That's just you confusing my annoyed tone with my happy tone."

"Well it's not my fault they're so similar."

"I see the tides have turned."

"Stop that," Rowan laughed.

Obliging, Amran restored the conversation. "So, to what do I have the honour of your company so early in the night?"

"You were the first person I saw that I already knew and didn't seem to be occupied."

"Why not try talking to people you don't know?" suggested Amran.

"It's not that easy," Rowan complained.

"You managed with me just fine when we first met."

"And I completely flubbed it, remember," Rowan reminded him.

"So you did."

"And even if I hadn't, this is a completely different situation. How are you supposed to initiate conversation with strangers in a formal setting?"

"By approaching them and saying 'hello'?" Amran suggested before reminding Rowan with, "I'm not exactly an expert on the matter."

"True. I just wish I had something else to work with."

Suddenly, Amran gave Rowan a suspicious glance and asked, "Conversation with strangers isn't the only thing you're avoiding, is it?"

The question made Rowan feel guilty. "No?" she said with that all too unconvincing rising pitch.

"I don't blame you for the loss of my foot, Rowan."

"I didn't think…"

"Yes you did and we both know it. I'm fine. Honestly."

"You are?"

"Thanks to the medics and healers that have been attending me, yes. The prosthetic is taking a little getting used to but that's a minor issue in the grand scheme of things."

"How are you taking this so well?"

"Because it is in my nature."

"This goes beyond nature."

"Perhaps. Regardless, if this was my limit, I would have fallen years ago."

"It's still impressive."

"Then I accept the compliment," said Amran with the slightest hint of a smile.

"So what's next for you?"

"I asked the Queen if she could arrange for me to attend The Azure University."

"That sounds like it would suit you."

"Indeed. It is my intent to aid in the study of Stoics."

"It's good that you have an idea of what lies ahead of you. I have a destination, but no map to guide me."

"You're referring to your oath, correct?"

"Aye."

"Then I must disagree with you."

Feeling mildly offended, Rowan started to interject, "That's not how…"

"Let me finish. I disagree with the completion of your oath being your destination. That's only a point on your journey."

"I think you're reading a wee bit too much into my choice of words."

"Then why did you say it with such finality?"

"I didn't, did I?"

"You did. Have your vengeance, but don't let it consume you. You aren't alone or fighting just for yourself, after all."

"Thanks."

"Don't mention it. With that said, I believe another person who enjoys leaking emotion is here to see you."

"You what?"

Before Amran could answer, someone cleared their throat behind Rowan. The voice that followed had a dark, enchanting quality and the slightest hint of a lilt. If sound were touch it would have been that of smooth velvet.

"Forgive me for my intrusion, Lady Naliir, for I couldn't delay my approach a moment longer."

Rowan turned to face the voice bearer and he did not disappoint. His face was chiselled to an almost statuesque degree and was further complemented by an extremely well-groomed, but still casual, stubble and a similarly styled head of short and slightly choppy hair the colour of mahogany. He stood with an almost towering confidence that felt almost like a challenge. It didn't help that he was a full foot taller than Rowan or that was looking at her intently with his burgundy-coloured eyes.

Maintaining eye contact with him for too long was difficult so she decided to instead admire the rest of him; surreptitiously, of course. Even with his rather dapper attire, Rowan could tell that he was incredibly well-toned. With that said, he didn't appear to be at all bulky. That gave him the appearance of being strong but not overly imposing.

"Lady Naliir?" he said again.

"Hmmm?" Rowan replied, barely noticing.

"I can leave," he suggested, sounding a little deflated.

This time Rowan managed to look him in the face again. His confidence was gone and the illusion was shattered. He no longer looked like the vision of perfection. That isn't to say he wasn't still incredibly attractive, just that he was closer to the realm of mortals than Rowan had thought mere seconds before.

"Oh hello, sorry," she said after a moment, "I was distracted. Don't leave. What can I do for you?"

"Well, I was entranced by your beauty and I knew that I'd regret it if I didn't try speaking to you before night's end."

Rowan blushed furiously at the complement and stumbled awkwardly over her response; "I can thank you," was about all she managed initially.

"You can?"

"Sorry, I'm not used to this," Rowan apologised. "What I meant to say is thank you and I'd be happy to talk with you. Would you mind giving me your name?"

"That would be a good place to start, wouldn’t it? My name is Brennan. I'm an Ardent from the Awakened Corp of the Særan Military. I'm serving as 'guard duty' for the king's delegation."

"Guard duty? King's delegation?"

"The king of Særis," Brennan explained, "he couldn't attend himself, but when he heard about Princess Seres' return he sent a delegation to extend his joy and best wishes."

"That still doesn't explain the guard duty part."

"A formality for the most part. Llen Fær and Særis are allied nations, after all. However, our own princess is in attendance at this ball, as are the first and second princes of Ferran, so my partner and I are serving as part of the honour guard."

"Makes sense," Rowan conceded.

Brennan's voice then took a more serious tone. He looked into Rowan's eyes and asked, "With that said, may I be so bold to ask if you would honour me with a dance?"

Rowan smiled back at him a little awkwardly. "I would be happy to honour you so," she said before smugly adding, "if you can keep up."

"Is that a challenge? I'll have you know that I'm no slouch on the dance floor."

"Neither am I," said Rowan simply without a hint of a boast.

*****

Meanwhile, Alena saw the entire exchange happen from one of the platforms. She was pouting as she complained to Davra.

"This is what I get for not wanting to interrupt her while she was talking to her friend."

"Stop worrying about it, Alena. It was inevitable that people were going to notice her. Have you seen her? Damn, she cleans up nicely."

"Well, I saw her first."

"Stop acting like a child, Alena. If you really want to woo her, take the initiative or wait for the prime time to strike."

"I'm not sure about that…"

"Then just speak to her. She already likes you at least a little bit so you have an overwhelming advantage compared to most of the people that are likely to approach her."

"If you say so," Alena sighed.

"I do say so."

"Okay, let me just work out how I'm going to do this."

"Take your time. Just don't squander your chance."

"I won't."

*****

Rowan was smiling from ear to ear as her dance with Brennan came to a close. And despite putting Brennan through his paces, she bore no signs of exertion. Brennan, on the other hand, was red in the face and breathing heavily. For some reason, he was also walking a little awkwardly.

"It would appear that I lost," he huffed. "I think it might be an idea for me to take a break after that."

"Are you okay?" Rowan asked.

"I will be after I sit down and get a bite to eat. Next time I'll be better prepared. Until then, I'll let you get back to mingling."

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it."

"It was fun dancing with you, by the way."

Those were Rowan's parting words. After that, she was getting approached pretty much every time she was alone due to her suitors having been emboldened by Brennan. Some didn't even give her the courtesy of waiting with a prime example having five guys arguing about who would have the privilege of courting Rowan right in front of her without giving the common courtesy of asking for her thoughts or opinions on the matter. Thankfully, she was able to slip away because of how absorbed they were with their argument.

It wasn’t all bad. Some of the people were perfectly nice and some even charmed Rowan enough that she was willing to dance with them. Others, however, were much worse from "Maybe we should go somewhere where you can remove that dress and cool off," to "Is it hot in here or do I see a mirage before me?" or even, "I must say, that tattoo on your back is a show of excellent taste and style." That last one earned the gentleman who said it a rather firm slap. Which is to say, she hit him with enough force to knock him off balance and over the railings on the platform. Miraculously he survived, but not without a few broken bones.

After that, Rowan was given some space to breathe so she took it upon herself to find some food. The tables were filled with delicacies from around the world, many of which Rowan had never seen before. That made it a little bit more of a challenge to find things she liked. In the end, she settled on a table dedicated to Midiran cuisine.

As Rowan started to eat her fill the crows started to gather again. Before they could swoop in, however, she heard a familiar voice.

"Rowan!" Alena called out. "I'm so glad I found you."

Rowan's heart skipped a beat at the sound of Alena's voice. She hadn't forgotten her attraction to the young Ferran lady nor her desire to be more than just friends with her.

Caught in the moment, Rowan practically ran at Alena and hugged her. Alena cried out in happy surprise from the sudden embrace, but after she collected herself, she hugged Rowan back.

"I'll take that as 'you're happy to see me too'?" Alena asked.

"More than happy," Rowan replied. "I thought I'd never get the chance to speak to someone else that I knew tonight and then bam, my number one choice appeared."

"Your number one choice?"

Realising what she had said, Rowan turned bright crimson and stammered, "P-please f-forget what I just said."

Seeing the extremely embarrassed Rowan only made Alena blush which in turn made Rowan more embarrassed. If ever it were possible for an Ardent to generate visible heat without anger, it was now.

To cap it off, Alena managed to compose herself enough for a response. She looked into Rowan's eyes and said, "It makes me happier than you can imagine to know that I was your number one choice."

With that, Rowan fainted into Alena's arms. She came to in a matter of seconds, but it was enough; her heart was racing.

The only words she managed after that were, "care to dance?" to which Alena wholeheartedly obliged. Rather than adopt the lead and follow positions that were common in the more traditional mixed-gender pairings, they instinctively went for an offset stance more commonly seen in Ferran dances. At first, they got a few offended looks as the stance they had taken was completely off for the Særan waltz that everyone was expecting as the next dance.

They were soon vindicated, however, as the music transitioned to accommodate their stance. Stepping into the dance, Rowan caught a glimpse of Seres walking away from the band with a mischievous grin on her face. Alena was also smiling like a radiant star amid a sea of mundane formality as they started moving in step.

Their dance soon became the focal point of the event as desire started to imbue every inch of Rowan's being and Alena mirrored every passion. Each graceful step brought them closer together. Even the twirling flames of passion could not keep them parted as the heat was intoxicating.

When the dance neared the climax, their lips almost touched and Rowan felt her Gift surge through her body. In that moment, she showed everyone what it meant to be the Ardent Flame; just not in the way that the Queen had imagined.

The bountiful emotion was felt by everyone in the great hall and more than a few flames were kindled that night in the light of passion. Only one person was free from the overwhelming touch of Rowan's desire and that was Alena herself. Deep down, Rowan wanted Alena's feelings for her to be unadulterated.

They were both breathing heavily when the dance came to a close. Their bodies clung to each other and they were, once again, on the edge of a kiss as they gazed deeply into each other’s eyes. The applause that followed broke the moment and they realised they were the only ones on the dance floor. Instead, everyone was watching them. Their dance had become a solo performance.

Through the clapping and a heavy blush, Alena managed to say, "know anywhere quieter where we could cool down?"

Rowan knew just the place. She took Alena's hand and led her to the Sunfall Apartments.

*****

For the entire walk back to the apartments, the passionate heat between Rowan and Alena continued to rise. They were barely through the door when the flames of desire ignited in truth as their lips touched. The kiss was slow at first. Hesitant even. As the nervous exploration continued in earnest, however, their confidence grew and Rowan deepened the kiss with her tongue.

When Alena responded in kind, Rowan felt a second rush from her Gift. The electrifying touch of the Goddess’ approval was like a drug that only became more addicting with each passing moment of their embrace. Alena dove headfirst into passion and desire with an intensity that made Rowan’s heart race.

Like an Ardent Flame, there was no end in sight to the growing fire that fueled their intimacy. Even the awkward navigation through the parlour added to the heat of their dance. It didn’t matter that they accidentally smashed a vase or that they tripped over a sofa. Such moments just proved that they were lost in the other.

When they finally reached the door to Rowan’s bedroom, Alena pressed Rowan against it with lustful intent. Before Rowan could react, Alena had already moved in with her hands reaching up to unfasten Rowan’s dress. Taken aback by Alena’s forwardness, Rowan let it happen, even going so far as to moan quietly when Alena kissed her neck.

Alena pulled back in momentary surprise at the quiet sound of ecstasy. Seeing her chance, Rowan seized the initiative and opened the door behind her, sweeping Alena into the room. With control back in her hands, Rowan guided them towards the bed as she straddled Alena and finished what Alena had started.

With the choker loose, the top half of Rowan’s dress fell and her chest was left bare. Rowan kissed Alena fiercely; a duel of paramours. She wanted to go further, but she was hesitant. Was Alena really okay with this? She was a noble, after all, and Rowan was still rough around the edges from her years in captivity, even if she was starting to fill out. Could someone truly appreciate her bony form?

Rowan pulled back, but before she could voice her concerns, Alena spoke up.

“You can continue,” she said with a breathless smile.

“Are you sure? Is this okay?”

Rowan’s quiet response was hesitant and filled with longing. She craved the connection they were sharing. A love born of desire. The inverse of her past relationship with Kiriin, but no less true. But, she was only one half of the full picture and she was anxious to see the other half.

Alena's answer, on the other hand, was simple and clear.

"Yes."

*****

As they reached the end of their first crescendo, Rowan snuggled up beside Alena and kissed her gently.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Yeah. I just wasn’t prepared for something quite so intense,” Alena replied.

“Sorry.”

“Don’t apologise,” Alena smiled, “it felt amazing.”

“It’s just, is this really okay?”

With the action slowing down, Rowan’s anxiety was rearing its terrible head and it was showing in her voice.

“What do you mean?” Alena asked, giving Rowan a concerned look.

“You’re a noble, right? Won’t this be a problem with your family?”

Alena answered Rowan’s question with laughter and mirth. “Worried what they might think if I’m no longer a virgin?”

“Yes?”

Rowan was quiet as she responded. She had been taken aback by Alena’s laughter and she was feeling somewhat foolish without knowing why. Fortunately, Alena didn’t dally in assuaging Rowan’s growing anxiety.

“It’s true that some families amongst the nobility expect their children to remain ‘pure’ outside of wedlock, but enforcement of the tradition has been falling out of favour and it was never popular in Ferran to begin with. As long as I don’t have a child outside of wedlock, my family probably won’t object and I’m pretty confident you lack the means of getting me pregnant.”

“Well if you’re sure,” Rowan said hesitantly.

“Completely. If anything, my family would celebrate me entering a union, even if only briefly, with the Ardent Flame of Midiris. I do have one request, however.”

Alena’s ears flattened slightly as she readied herself to speak again.

“If someone else takes your fancy or we part ways for some other reason, please don’t forget me.”

Rowan looked at Alena seriously and kissed her. “I’m not going to forget you, silly, nor do I intend to let these feelings die. Even if someone else enters the scene, I hope you’ll let me keep on loving you.”

“Why would I want you to stop?”

“Well if I found myself loving multiple people, you might not want to share,”

“Is that all?”

“Yes?”

“Then I don’t think we have anything to worry about. I wouldn’t dream of trying to contain an Ardent’s emotions. If that means you loving multiple people, then I am beyond willing to accept that possibility. More than that even. I would share in your love if you’d let me.”

“As in, having you join me in loving multiple people? Of course, I would!”

“That’s great! I didn’t think you were an exclusive harem kind of girl, but these things are worth checking.”

“I’d be happy if you were able to love many people, not just those that I also love,”

“Likewise. This kind of reminds me of how the Ferran clans used to do things. I know some still do, but polyamory used to be fairly common in our race.”

“So I’ve heard. Just one thing though. Do you just like girls, or do you also like guys as well?”

“It depends on the person.” Alena smiled. She started edging closer to Rowan, tail swishing mischievously behind her. “What I do know is that I like you a lot and I think I’m ready for another round.”

Before Rowan could respond, Alena locked lips with her and the embers burst into flame. Eventually, the embers returned as the two drifted off to sleep in the wee hours of the morning. Still, even in slumber, the embers were fueled by passion.

Chapter 25: The Ball (Extended)

Not a moment had passed after the two girls had sat down for breakfast that Seres started to inquire about Rowan's dawn-time exhibitionism.

"You don't need to answer me, Rowan, but why did you decide to present yourself to gardeners in the nude?"

"That wasn't my intent," Rowan answered with a face redder than the tomatoes on her plate.

"Oh?"

"Well not exactly."

The inquisitive look that Seres gave her made it clear that, despite the initial disclaimer, she had no intention of letting this go. As such, Rowan decided that there was no helping it.

"Okay, so I was trying to talk with my dead sister and it's really difficult when I'm not in an emotionally heightened state so I thought making myself super embarrassed would work because I was already slightly embarrassed from having a lewd dream last night which resulted in me accidentally squirting all over the bed."

The words came in an awkward, breathless stream that bombarded the ears of everyone in the room, including all of the servants and Seres’ guards. Unsurprisingly and somewhat amusingly, it caught most of the people by surprise. One of the servants, who had managed to maintain his cool for most of the conversation, nearly dropped the platter he was holding. Even Seres was blushing.

“That was probably a bit too much information, Rowan,” prodded Seres from behind a pair of hands that only slightly veiled her flustered expression.

“What was?” Rowan replied before realising what she had just said. "Oh. Oh no. Please forget what I just said. All of it."

"I wish I could," responded Seres.

For several minutes, awkward silence filled the room. The only sounds to be heard were the clinking of silverware on porcelain and chewing. It only made Rowan feel even more self-conscious about everything, even things completely unrelated to current goings on. Was she chewing too loud? Did her hair look weird? Was she about to confess her wildest fantasies? That kind of thing.

The room grew dark and cold. Rowan felt her anxiety levels rise. Everyone was watching. They knew.

*Clink*

Rowan's heart skipped a beat. She froze. Then a hand touched her own. Rowan was back in the moment. Seres was smiling softly at her.

"It's okay, Rowan," she said, "you're safe here. I won’t let anyone hurt you."

Not quite believing her, Rowan looked around the room and true enough, the servants were focused on their work instead of her. If anything, they were acting as if Rowan's little outburst had never even happened.

"Do you really mean it?" asked Rowan after turning back to Seres with watery eyes.

"Of course, I do, you hopeless softie of an Ardent. I can't have you breaking down when we have a party ahead of us. Now is the time to celebrate and have fun."

"I guess you're right," said Rowan quietly.

"Even if I wasn't, I would make it so by royal decree," replied Seres with a brilliant smile.

Rowan gave her a look of mock horror. "You cannae do that," she said.

"Watch me. What good is privilege if you don’t use it to help people?"

"I guess?" answered Rowan, not quite sure of how she was supposed to respond.

"It's fine. Now hurry up and finish eating. You've still got half a plate of food and we need to start getting ready."

"Already? But it's still morning? The ball isn't until this evening."

Seres gave Rowan a look and laughed brightly. In response, Rowan felt a heavy frown upon her lips. She couldn’t help but feel like she was missing something.

"After all the prep we've already done, did you really think that we would only be at it for an hour or something today?" Seres asked finally.

"I hadn't really given it much thought to be honest," Rowan answered.

"Well we still need to bathe, visit the sauna, get a full body massage, do a full set of stretches, rinse off, eat lunch, have our nails and makeup done, and our hair cut and styled. Only then can we get dressed and make the final adjustments."

Rowan gave Seres a concerned look as she finished off listing everything that they still needed to do. "That sounds like a lot," said Rowan hesitantly.

"It'll be worth it, I promise," responded Seres.

"One last question."

"Go on?"

"Was that list in order or?"

"Ideally yes. It would be a bit awkward if we bathed after we had our makeup done or rinsed off before bathing."

"That's not what I meant!" Rowan pouted.

"It wasn’t?" Seres replied with mock surprise. "How careless of me. Now eat up. We have just under an hour before we need to start if we don't want to rush ourselves."

*****

Several hours later Rowan was waiting around in nervous trepidation alongside Seres for the signal that would summon them to the ball. Normally they would already be there. However, as the ball was meant to celebrate Seres' return and rescue, custom dictated that she was to wait until the guests had settled in, at which point she would be announced. Furthermore, Seres had insisted that Rowan receive the same treatment on account of being her friend and saviour. Queen Elarin didn't need much convincing either. Apparently, the others were also being announced if they so desired because of their roles in the escape and bringing Seres home.

It was a nerve-racking wait that was heightened by Rowan's abundant energy levels. The excitement combined with the strange lunch that they had had provided her with more vigour than she could reasonably handle. Seres was doing a better job of hiding it but Rowan could tell that she was nervous and excited as well.

"Is it always like this?" Rowan asked finally.

"I'm not sure," Seres answered. "The last time I was in this position was my eleventh birthday so it isn’t exactly the freshest of memories."

"Sorry."

"Why are you apologising, silly?"

"I don't know."

"Well stop it. It's almost time. How do I look?"

"Am I really the person to be answering that?"

"Why not? Is my honorary sister incapable of giving her opinion or should I be asking my non-existent partner or something?"

"Well if you really want my opinion, you look absolutely stunning." Rowan wasn’t lying either.

Seres glowed with the gentle touch of makeup which only added to her already perfect skin. Meanwhile, her hair had been caught in an elegantly messy bun with a crown braid that kept her pale shoulders untouched by unruly locks. The hair and makeup alone would have been enough to make her truly beautiful, but they were only the beginning.

Next came what some would argue was the centrepiece of the entire look. That being the dress. Rowan was inclined to disagree, thinking rather that Seres in her entirety earned that honour. That isn't to say the dress wasn't incredible; it was. In fact, incredible only began to describe the dress and its heart-shaped neckline and long flowing skirt. It was of a deep azure and accented with gold, much like her namesake of lapis lazuli. The colours paired perfectly with her eyes, which was unsurprising really, considering they were the reason behind the name. About her waist, she wore a short black corset that came up to just beneath the bust. The dress had an opening for Seres' tail near the base of the corset as it transitioned into the skirt which trailed along gracefully behind her while showing off her ankles and high-heeled shoes.

Besides her dress, Seres also wore a small selection of jewellery in the form of a necklace, a series of bracelets, a couple of rings, and a silver tiara. The necklace served as a contrast to the rest of her outfit by means of a crimson gem which doubled as an aesthetic link to Rowan. To add to that link, one of Seres' rings was a twin to one that Rowan was wearing.

Finally, due to the cut of her dress, the top of Seres' back, and by extension, her scars were exposed. To cover her scars she wore a deep blue shawl.

After taking it all in, Rowan gave Seres a smile and a twirl before asking, "What about me?"

Rowan's look had been taken in a completely different direction from Seres’. Even so, the idea behind it was the same, to highlight Rowan's character. Compared to Seres, Rowan's hair was much shorter, reaching down only to her shoulder. As such, her stylists opted to keep her hair down while weaving some braids and crystalline flowers into her gentle windswept waves. The flowers took the place of a tiara and served to bring even more attention to her brilliant red hair. Meanwhile, her make-up was designed to capitalise on that draw to create a full picture that highlighted her features perfectly. From the small wings and the touch of smokiness that gave incredible depth to her violet Ferran eyes to the soft blush and rose lips for contrast with her alabaster skin.

Adding to her image was her brilliant red dress that had been designed to ripple like fire. The flame aesthetic was further complimented by the secondary and accent colours, though the dressmakers had made sure to keep it from being too much. Compared to Seres' dress, Rowan's had a low back, showing the full extent of her scars and she lacked a shawl to cover them. That had been her decision; she wanted to show everyone what they had been through, what they had survived.

Of course, this meant that the dress couldn't be held up around the bust or with shoulder straps. Instead, the straps were caught in a choker at the neck with a window of fiery lace. Instead of a necklace, a single teardrop gem hung from the choker.

As for the skirt, it was made from a light flower material that ended just below the knee and flared as Rowan twirled. This in combination with the colour is what truly gave the aesthetic of flame whilst giving Rowan full fluidity of motion which was important due to how dynamic she could be. To compliment her dress, she wore a flat pair of red shoes that laced up her ankles with ribbon and a single arm ring around her right bicep.

When Rowan came to a stop, Seres laughed warmly and said, "You look great, Rowan. Perfect even."

"Thank you," said Rowan with a soft blush.

Seres then gave her a serious look and cautioned her, "Don't be surprised if you draw the attention of many a bachelor or maybe even a few bachelorettes. And be careful not to get caught in the moment or let yourself get overwhelmed."

"I appreciate the heads up, but isn't this a new experience for you as well?"

"Well yes. I'm just repeating the same warning that my sister gave me. Though she only told me the second half. I added the part about the suitors myself."

Rowan gave Seres a slight pout. "Don't give me that, Seres. You're just as, if not more, worthy of suitors than I am. I'm sure you'll get as much attention as I do."

"I'll definitely get a lot of attention, but courting works a little differently when it comes to princesses."

"Why would that be?" Rowan asked.

"Because of how valuable we are politically."

"Do you really think your mother would force you into a political marriage after all you've been through?"

"No," Seres admitted, "but the court doesn't know that and they'll follow tradition."

"Sounds stupid to me," Rowan snorted.

"Not as stupid as the sound you just made," Seres laughed. "Seriously though, I'm happy that I'll be able to enjoy the ball without needing to worry about that. And it's not like people won't ask me to dance or anything."

"That's good at least. And if they don't, I'll show everyone what they're missing."

"You don't need to do anything that extreme."

"What else is a beautiful Ardent to do when her honorary sister is neglected?" asked Rowan seriously.

Seres returned the look as best she could before falling to laughter. When she looked up again, Rowan was also laughing.

Their laughter was interrupted by a knock on the door. "It is time, Your Highness," said a maid on the other side.

"Right away," Seres replied before turning to Rowan. "Shall we?"

"Let’s."

*****

"Honoured guests," cried a herald, his voice amplified via Resonance Crystal so that even Rowan and Seres could hear it from outside, "it is with great pride and privilege that I am able to welcome our lost princess home. Join me in welcoming Her Royal Highness, Seres Talyren El Ria Lanafae, Princess of the Dawn."

What followed was an earthshaking cheer that rippled through the city, marking the official start of celebrations for the common folk. Inside, however, the herald was not finished.

"I also have the honour of introducing the woman who sacrificed everything to keep our beloved princess safe from damnation and bring her home. Join me in giving your thanks to Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir, Ardent Protector."

The cheer for Rowan was no less than what Seres had been given, though arguably they were both for her. Even so it lit a fire in Rowan's heart. When the doors opened, she was raring to go.

Then she saw the great hall, her jaw nearly hit the floor, both literally and figuratively. The room felt like it had been built for giants. Either that or the people within were the size of pygmies for they were completely dwarfed by the incredibly bodacious architecture and grand decorations. Adding almost unreasonably to the effect were the floating network of platforms above the main floor that also served as large crystalline lights. Even after seeing the statues in the garden earlier, Rowan would never have imagined such a gravity-defying feat was possible. Even Seres seemed like she had been taken completely aback by the sight.

"That's new," she whispered, barely moving her lips as they strode forward.

"What is?" Rowan asked.

"The platforms."

"You don't think they did this just for us, do you?"

"Not a chance. There's no way this just happened out of the blue. I'll ask my mother some other time. Speaking of which, we're meant to present ourselves to her."

"Lead the way."

Seres took them straight through the middle of the main floor past the nobles who had been dancing before the announcement. Each one bowed or curtsied as they passed. When they reached the other side, they ascended a grand flight of stairs to the only platform not raised by Gravitational Resonance. The platform was large in its own right and decorated lavishly in the royal colours of Llen Fær, red and silver with an accent of gold. They found Queen Elarin at the centre-back of the platform flanked by the rest of her family and her attendants.

Seres stepped forward and spoke so that her voice would carry. "Your Majesty,  after many years I have returned home."

In response, Queen Elarin stood and bowed her head slightly. "Welcome home, Seres, my daughter. And to you, Rowan'efrii, I thank you for returning my daughter to me. To show my gratitude I extend to you the titles of An'Fær and Ardent Flame of Midiris along with an invitation to my court."

Rowan curtsied and gave her answer. "I wholeheartedly accept."

"Then let it be known that Rowan'efrii of House Naliir is a lady in more than name. She is truly worthy of our gratitude as are all who spearheaded the rescue and return of my daughter and her compatriots. As for those who escaped alongside them, they are deserving of our aid. The crown will do its part. I ask that you all do the same. Last of all, the crown is committed to doing what it can to put an end to the foul plot that haunts our lands and those of our brothers and sisters to the East. As for you, Lady Rowan, I ask that you continue to be my daughter's friend, ally, and protector."

"Of course, Your Majesty. I wouldn't have it any other way."

With Rowan's answer given and Queen Elarin's declaration made, the hall fell silent. Rowan had been given a tremendous honour, one that hadn't been given even in the lifetime of the oldest living nobles of Midiris. Before the silence became overbearing, however, the music started again and people returned to their socialising.

With everything back to normal,  Queen Elarin gave Rowan and Seres a smile. "Now go enjoy yourselves," she said, notably quieter than before. "This ball is for you, after all."

Having been given leave, the two girls descended into the ball, ready to partake in all that the festivities had to offer. It was slow going right at the beginning as everyone wanted to speak to Seres who felt obligated to share at least a few words with everyone who approached her. Not wanting to leave her to the wolves, Rowan stayed by her side. That's what she told herself at least. It totally wasn't because she was intimidated. Even so, she could only handle the endless sharing of pleasantries for so long as it eventually got to the point that she was visibly agitated to those who knew what to look for.

During a brief pause in the exchange, Seres gave Rowan a quick glance and said, "You don't need to stay here, glued to my side, you know."

"I do, but…"

"Go and party already. I'll find a way to free myself before too long and I'd rather not do it by way of you scaring everyone away."

"Sorry," replied a glum Rowan.

"Just have fun. Consider it an order."

"A royal one?"

"Of course not. It's an order between friends. That means you have to follow it."

"Is that how it works?" Rowan laughed.

"It is today," Seres answered with mock seriousness. "Now hurry up. Someone is coming to greet me."

"Fine," said Rowan with a rolling of her eyes. "Just promise to come find me if you need rescuing."

"Rowan!"

"I'm going."

Rowan was laughing as she took her leave. And then she realised that she had no idea what she was supposed to do even after all the prep and drilling she had done with Seres. A ball was, after all, completely different from the festivals of her youth. It would have been different if she knew anyone, but she was surrounded by strangers who were in their social element. Only that wasn't entirely true; there were people here that she knew. At least, there were meant to be.

With a bit of hope, Rowan cast her gaze across the main floor. As she did she caught a glimpse of Maro in a relatively simple light blue dress dancing with a young man. Across from them, Ædarik and Ashlin were also dancing. They both looked incredible in their formal attire. In any other setting, Ashlin may have been a showstopper with her dress of midnight purple and glistening nebulae. Alas, she had some strong competition and Rowan wasn’t going to go without a fight. Granted, it seemed like Ashlin already had a prize. If anything, it made Rowan a little jealous.

Not wanting to dwell on that, she continued to look for someone who was free. Sure enough, she eventually found Amran rather out of the way to the side. Somewhat unsurprisingly, he was on his own and dressed in rather subdued formal wear. Rowan navigated her way across to him with only a little difficulty.

When she reached him, Rowan announced herself in a rather unconventional way by saying, "Knock knock."

Amran looked up and gave Rowan a dry smile as he responded. "You know, I'd have known it was you even if you hadn’t said anything. Your emotions are like a beacon."

"Nice to see you too."

"I'm surprised you found the time to come see me."

"I meant to visit you sooner, but…"

"You've been busy. I know. I'm not complaining."

"You sound like you're complaining."

"That's just you confusing my annoyed tone with my happy tone."

"Well it's not my fault they're so similar."

"I see the tides have turned."

"Stop that," Rowan laughed.

Obliging, Amran restored the conversation. "So, to what do I have the honour of your company so early in the night?"

"You were the first person I saw that I already knew and didn't seem to be occupied."

"Why not try talking to people you don't know?" suggested Amran.

"It's not that easy," Rowan complained.

"You managed with me just fine when we first met."

"And I completely flubbed it, remember," Rowan reminded him.

"So you did."

"And even if I hadn't, this is a completely different situation. How are you supposed to initiate conversation with strangers in a formal setting?"

"By approaching them and saying 'hello'?" Amran suggested before reminding Rowan with, "I'm not exactly an expert on the matter."

"True. I just wish I had something else to work with."

Suddenly, Amran gave Rowan a suspicious glance and asked, "Conversation with strangers isn't the only thing you're avoiding, is it?"

The question made Rowan feel guilty. "No?" she said with that all too unconvincing rising pitch.

"I don't blame you for the loss of my foot, Rowan."

"I didn't think…"

"Yes you did and we both know it. I'm fine. Honestly."

"You are?"

"Thanks to the medics and healers that have been attending me, yes. The prosthetic is taking a little getting used to but that's a minor issue in the grand scheme of things."

"How are you taking this so well?"

"Because it is in my nature."

"This goes beyond nature."

"Perhaps. Regardless, if this was my limit, I would have fallen years ago."

"It's still impressive."

"Then I accept the compliment," said Amran with the slightest hint of a smile.

"So what's next for you?"

"I asked the Queen if she could arrange for me to attend The Azure University."

"That sounds like it would suit you."

"Indeed. It is my intent to aid in the study of Stoics."

"It's good that you have an idea of what lies ahead of you. I have a destination, but no map to guide me."

"You're referring to your oath, correct?"

"Aye."

"Then I must disagree with you."

Feeling mildly offended, Rowan started to interject, "That's not how…"

"Let me finish. I disagree with the completion of your oath being your destination. That's only a point on your journey."

"I think you're reading a wee bit too much into my choice of words."

"Then why did you say it with such finality?"

"I didn't, did I?"

"You did. Have your vengeance, but don't let it consume you. You aren't alone or fighting just for yourself, after all."

"Thanks."

"Don't mention it. With that said, I believe another person who enjoys leaking emotion is here to see you."

"You what?"

Before Amran could answer, someone cleared their throat behind Rowan. The voice that followed had a dark, enchanting quality and the slightest hint of a lilt. If sound were touch it would have been that of smooth velvet.

"Forgive me for my intrusion, Lady Naliir, for I couldn't delay my approach a moment longer."

Rowan turned to face the voice bearer and he did not disappoint. His face was chiselled to an almost statuesque degree and was further complemented by an extremely well-groomed, but still casual, stubble and a similarly styled head of short and slightly choppy hair the colour of mahogany. He stood with an almost towering confidence that felt almost like a challenge. It didn't help that he was a full foot taller than Rowan or that was looking at her intently with his burgundy-coloured eyes.

Maintaining eye contact with him for too long was difficult so she decided to instead admire the rest of him; surreptitiously, of course. Even with his rather dapper attire, Rowan could tell that he was incredibly well-toned. With that said, he didn't appear to be at all bulky. That gave him the appearance of being strong but not overly imposing.

"Lady Naliir?" he said again.

"Hmmm?" Rowan replied, barely noticing.

"I can leave," he suggested, sounding a little deflated.

This time Rowan managed to look him in the face again. His confidence was gone and the illusion was shattered. He no longer looked like the vision of perfection. That isn't to say he wasn't still incredibly attractive, just that he was closer to the realm of mortals than Rowan had thought mere seconds before.

"Oh hello, sorry," she said after a moment, "I was distracted. Don't leave. What can I do for you?"

"Well, I was entranced by your beauty and I knew that I'd regret it if I didn't try speaking to you before night's end."

Rowan blushed furiously at the complement and stumbled awkwardly over her response; "I can thank you," was about all she managed initially.

"You can?"

"Sorry, I'm not used to this," Rowan apologised. "What I meant to say is thank you and I'd be happy to talk with you. Would you mind giving me your name?"

"That would be a good place to start, wouldn’t it? My name is Brennan. I'm an Ardent from the Awakened Corp of the Særan Military. I'm serving as 'guard duty' for the king's delegation."

"Guard duty? King's delegation?"

"The king of Særis," Brennan explained, "he couldn't attend himself, but when he heard about Princess Seres' return he sent a delegation to extend his joy and best wishes."

"That still doesn't explain the guard duty part."

"A formality for the most part. Llen Fær and Særis are allied nations, after all. However, our own princess is in attendance at this ball, as are the first and second princes of Ferran, so my partner and I are serving as part of the honour guard."

"Makes sense," Rowan conceded.

Brennan's voice then took a more serious tone. He looked into Rowan's eyes and asked, "With that said, may I be so bold to ask if you would honour me with a dance?"

Rowan smiled back at him a little awkwardly. "I would be happy to honour you so," she said before smugly adding, "if you can keep up."

"Is that a challenge? I'll have you know that I'm no slouch on the dance floor."

"Neither am I," said Rowan simply without a hint of a boast.

*****

Meanwhile, Alena saw the entire exchange happen from one of the platforms. She was pouting as she complained to Davra.

"This is what I get for not wanting to interrupt her while she was talking to her friend."

"Stop worrying about it, Alena. It was inevitable that people were going to notice her. Have you seen her? Damn, she cleans up nicely."

"Well, I saw her first."

"Stop acting like a child, Alena. If you really want to woo her, take the initiative or wait for the prime time to strike."

"I'm not sure about that…"

"Then just speak to her. She already likes you at least a little bit so you have an overwhelming advantage compared to most of the people that are likely to approach her."

"If you say so," Alena sighed.

"I do say so."

"Okay, let me just work out how I'm going to do this."

"Take your time. Just don't squander your chance."

"I won't."

*****

Rowan was smiling from ear to ear as her dance with Brennan came to a close. And despite putting Brennan through his paces, she bore no signs of exertion. Brennan, on the other hand, was red in the face and breathing heavily. For some reason, he was also walking a little awkwardly.

"It would appear that I lost," he huffed. "I think it might be an idea for me to take a break after that."

"Are you okay?" Rowan asked.

"I will be after I sit down and get a bite to eat. Next time I'll be better prepared. Until then, I'll let you get back to mingling."

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it."

"It was fun dancing with you, by the way."

Those were Rowan's parting words. After that, she was getting approached pretty much every time she was alone due to her suitors having been emboldened by Brennan. Some didn't even give her the courtesy of waiting with a prime example having five guys arguing about who would have the privilege of courting Rowan right in front of her without giving the common courtesy of asking for her thoughts or opinions on the matter. Thankfully, she was able to slip away because of how absorbed they were with their argument.

It wasn’t all bad. Some of the people were perfectly nice and some even charmed Rowan enough that she was willing to dance with them. Others, however, were much worse from "Maybe we should go somewhere where you can remove that dress and cool off," to "Is it hot in here or do I see a mirage before me?" or even, "I must say, that tattoo on your back is a show of excellent taste and style." That last one earned the gentleman who said it a rather firm slap. Which is to say, she hit him with enough force to knock him off balance and over the railings on the platform. Miraculously he survived, but not without a few broken bones.

After that, Rowan was given some space to breathe so she took it upon herself to find some food. The tables were filled with delicacies from around the world, many of which Rowan had never seen before. That made it a little bit more of a challenge to find things she liked. In the end, she settled on a table dedicated to Midiran cuisine.

As Rowan started to eat her fill the crows started to gather again. Before they could swoop in, however, she heard a familiar voice.

"Rowan!" Alena called out. "I'm so glad I found you."

Rowan's heart skipped a beat at the sound of Alena's voice. She hadn't forgotten her attraction to the young Ferran lady nor her desire to be more than just friends with her.

Caught in the moment, Rowan practically ran at Alena and hugged her. Alena cried out in happy surprise from the sudden embrace, but after she collected herself, she hugged Rowan back.

"I'll take that as 'you're happy to see me too'?" Alena asked.

"More than happy," Rowan replied. "I thought I'd never get the chance to speak to someone else that I knew tonight and then bam, my number one choice appeared."

"Your number one choice?"

Realising what she had said, Rowan turned bright crimson and stammered, "P-please f-forget what I just said."

Seeing the extremely embarrassed Rowan only made Alena blush which in turn made Rowan more embarrassed. If ever it were possible for an Ardent to generate visible heat without anger, it was now.

To cap it off, Alena managed to compose herself enough for a response. She looked into Rowan's eyes and said, "It makes me happier than you can imagine to know that I was your number one choice."

With that, Rowan fainted into Alena's arms. She came to in a matter of seconds, but it was enough; her heart was racing.

The only words she managed after that were, "care to dance?" to which Alena wholeheartedly obliged. Rather than adopt the lead and follow positions that were common in the more traditional mixed-gender pairings, they instinctively went for an offset stance more commonly seen in Ferran dances. At first, they got a few offended looks as the stance they had taken was completely off for the Særan waltz that everyone was expecting as the next dance.

They were soon vindicated, however, as the music transitioned to accommodate their stance. Stepping into the dance, Rowan caught a glimpse of Seres walking away from the band with a mischievous grin on her face. Alena was also smiling like a radiant star amid a sea of mundane formality as they started moving in step.

Their dance soon became the focal point of the event as desire started to imbue every inch of Rowan's being and Alena mirrored every passion. Each graceful step brought them closer together. Even the twirling flames of passion could not keep them parted as the heat was intoxicating.

When the dance neared the climax, their lips almost touched and Rowan felt her Gift surge through her body. In that moment, she showed everyone what it meant to be the Ardent Flame; just not in the way that the Queen had imagined.

The bountiful emotion was felt by everyone in the great hall and more than a few flames were kindled that night in the light of passion. Only one person was free from the overwhelming touch of Rowan's desire and that was Alena herself. Deep down, Rowan wanted Alena's feelings for her to be unadulterated.

They were both breathing heavily when the dance came to a close. Their bodies clung to each other and they were, once again, on the edge of a kiss as they gazed deeply into each other’s eyes. The applause that followed broke the moment and they realised they were the only ones on the dance floor. Instead, everyone was watching them. Their dance had become a solo performance.

Through the clapping and a heavy blush, Alena managed to say, "know anywhere quieter where we could cool down?"

Rowan knew just the place. She took Alena's hand and led her to the Sunfall Apartments.

*****

For the entire walk back to the apartments, the passionate heat between Rowan and Alena continued to rise. They were barely through the door when the flames of desire ignited in truth as their lips touched. The kiss was slow at first. Hesitant even. As the nervous exploration continued in earnest, however, their confidence grew and Rowan deepened the kiss with her tongue.

When Alena responded in kind, Rowan felt a second rush from her Gift. The electrifying touch of the Goddess’ approval was like a drug that only became more addicting with each passing moment of their embrace. Alena dove headfirst into passion and desire with an intensity that made Rowan’s heart race.

Like an Ardent Flame, there was no end in sight to the growing fire that fueled their intimacy. Even the awkward navigation through the parlour added to the heat of their dance. It didn’t matter that they accidentally smashed a vase or that they tripped over a sofa. Such moments just proved that they were lost in the other.

When they finally reached the door to Rowan’s bedroom, Alena pressed Rowan against it with lustful intent. Before Rowan could react, Alena had already moved in with her hands reaching up to unfasten Rowan’s dress. Taken aback by Alena’s forwardness, Rowan let it happen, even going so far as to moan quietly when Alena kissed her neck.

Alena pulled back in momentary surprise at the quiet sound of ecstasy. Seeing her chance, Rowan seized the initiative and opened the door behind her, sweeping Alena into the room. With control back in her hands, Rowan guided them towards the bed as she straddled Alena and finished what Alena had started.

With the choker loose, the top half of Rowan’s dress fell and her chest was left bare. Rowan kissed Alena fiercely; a duel of paramours. She wanted to go further, but she was hesitant. Was Alena really okay with this? She was a noble, after all, and Rowan was still rough around the edges from her years in captivity, even if she was starting to fill out. Could someone truly appreciate her bony form?

Rowan pulled back, but before she could voice her concerns, Alena spoke up.

“You can continue,” she said with a breathless smile.

“Are you sure? Is this okay?”

Rowan’s quiet response was hesitant and filled with longing. She craved the connection they were sharing. A love born of desire. The inverse of her past relationship with Kiriin, but no less true. But, she was only one half of the full picture and she was anxious to see the other half.

Alena's answer, on the other hand, was simple and clear.

"Yes."

A tear glistened in Rowan’s eyes and Alena once again took the lead in a surprising show of strength as she stood and rolled Rowan onto the bed. Rowan felt a firm grasp hold of her thigh, squeezing oh so slightly. Alas, Alena’s hand was only the beginning as her lips returned to Rowan’s exposed neck. Rowan arched back to give Alena better access. As thanks, Alena nibbled and sucked, adamant in her quest to leave a mark on Rowan’s pale flesh.

There was no fighting the growing pleasure as Rowan quivered in ecstasy. Her desire was making every touch a drug like no other and hearing Alena moan softly as she nibbled away only added to the effect.

Were it not for her Gift, or her abilities as an Ardent, Rowan was sure she’d be weak from pleasure. Fortunately, her entire being had other plans as the intense love and desire she felt empowered every inch of her core. Meanwhile, her Gift gave her the clarity to act in spite of the pleasure and she capitalised on it to tackle the challenge that was Alena’s dress. Unlike the simple choker that held Rowan’s dress, Alena’s was laced in the front and back and she was doing everything in her power to distract Rowan.

Rowan’s saving grace lay in her embrace of Alena and the dexterity her overflowing emotions granted. Nimble fingers played at the intricate lacing. Alena refused to help, but she also didn’t hinder. At least, not actively. She had other plans.

In between marking Rowan’s neck and returning to taste her sweet rosebud lips, Alena’s right hand, the one that had grasped Rowan’s thigh, started to wander, slowly venturing to explore the secrets concealed underneath Rowan’s skirt. The crimson fabric flirted with the imagination, just as the soft, featherlike touch tantalised the soul.

Rowan barely noticed when Alena’s hand found her underwear, the last bastion between her most sensitive place and wanton abandon. She was too close to conquering Alena’s bodice for her focus to drift. If anything, she welcomed Alena’s advance. So much so, that she raised her hips ever so slightly, as if inviting Alena lay siege to her final defence.

Alena obliged ever so slowly, as if to tease Rowan with anticipation. Meanwhile, Rowan started making real headway with the lacing, and the bodice was soon cast aside. Rowan was granted a moment or two of respite in the seconds that followed as Alena exhaled heavily. Rather than capitalise on Alena’s momentary relief, however, Rowan opted to wait and see what Alena would do next. When Alena returned to her prize, the look she gave Rowan carried a promise that she wouldn’t disappoint.

The first touch was electrifying; a gentle caress of Rowan’s flowering excitement. Her hips rolled into Alena’s approach as if to welcome this new experience. They were finally past the point of Rowan’s past experiences with Kiriin. As for Alena, the nervous curiosity she bore and the awkwardness of her touch were likely signs that this was a first for her as well. Fortunately, Rowan’s soft moans were more than enough to encourage her.

Alena gazed deeply into Rowan’s eyes as she explored her vulva, taking in every expression that washed over her face. Rowan was an open book and Alena was turning her every page.

Alas, no amount of gentle teasing could prepare Rowan for what came next. With a lone thumb gently caressing Rowan’t clit, she felt a pair of fingers venturing lower and lower, continuing until they found the welcoming embrace of her vagina. Rowan had to stop herself from gasping in surprise as they entered without any hint of resistance.

Rowan clung to the blanket with one hand and covered her mouth with the other. Any and all of Rowan’s focus went into holding back her moans, but it was only a matter of time before Alena teased them out from her.

“Yes,” Rowan moaned with muffled pleasure.

Alena saw that as her cue to tease Rowan a little bit. She gave Rowan's clit one last stroke with her fingers before stepping back and removing her own dress, denying Rowan the satisfaction. Rowan, of course, had no choice other than responding in kind with her own dress. Alas, in her distracted state, Alena had snuck back in, taking to her knees with her lips seeking out Rowan’s leg. Slowly she kissed her way up Rowan’s thigh, right up to the hairless source of her sweet nectar.

"Mhmm…"

Rowan came close to orgasm as Alena lapped up her juices. There was no hiding her overwhelming pleasure. So much so that she stopped trying. Ecstatic at Rowan’s response, Alena got up to kiss her and say, “let me hear you moan.”

The request was greeted with a mischievous smile and a single word.

"Likewise."

Alena had underestimated Rowan. Even on the edge of climaxing, she was an Ardent and a switch and it was her turn to bring Alena untold pleasure. Furthermore, unlike Alena, Rowan worked her way down from the top, starting with the lips and then the neck. Meanwhile, one of her hands linked with Alena’s and the other was left free to explore. After spending some time focusing intently on Alena’s neck, Rowan moved onto her breasts which seemed like prime real estate for leaving various aesthetically placed marks. Rowan nuzzled her breasts softly before kissing them fiercely.

Then, as if to give her some momentary reprieve, Rowan started tracing circles with her tongue around Alena's nipple whilst teasing the other breast with her free hand. The resulting moans were just what Rowan was looking for as she took a moment to kiss both breasts again before starting her journey down again.

Rowan kissed every inch of Alena as she made her way to Alena's smooth-skinned downstairs with both hands now teasing and tickling the sensitive abs above her. As Rowan’s lips met with Alena’s vulva for the first time, she found herself surprised by the taste of her erotic flow. It was an oh-so-subtle mix of sweet and sour. Kind of like lightly sugared water with a hint of citrus, though less fruity.

As for what she had been expecting, Rowan wasn’t sure. What she was sure of, however, was that she wanted more. She tasted Alena a second time and then a third.

I could get hooked on this.

Rowan continued to kiss and lick Alena’s clit and vulva with great intent, hands grasping onto her hips for greater purchase. After a couple of minutes, Alena's body quivered and her eyes rolled back as she moaned loudly. She was panting heavily by the end of it and her tail had lost all sense of composure. Even Rowan found herself once again on the edge, as if brought there by Alena’s orgasm.

"Rowan! Rowan! Please, give me a moment," Alena begged as Rowan went down on her again.

Hearing her partner's pleas, Rowan relented and snuggled up beside Alena and kissed her gently.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

“Yeah. I just wasn’t prepared for something quite so intense,” Alena replied.

“Sorry.”

“Don’t apologise,” Alena smiled, “it felt amazing.”

“It’s just, is this really okay?”

With the action slowing down, Rowan’s anxiety was rearing its terrible head and it was showing in her voice.

“What do you mean?” Alena asked, giving Rowan a concerned look.

“You’re a noble, right? Won’t this be a problem with your family?”

Alena answered Rowan’s question with laughter and mirth. “Worried what they might think if I’m no longer a virgin?”

“Yes?”

Rowan was quiet as she responded. She had been taken aback by Alena’s laughter and she was feeling somewhat foolish without knowing why. Fortunately, Alena didn’t dally in assuaging Rowan’s growing anxiety.

“It’s true that some families amongst the nobility expect their children to remain ‘pure’ outside of wedlock, but enforcement of the tradition has been falling out of favour and it was never popular in Ferran to begin with. As long as I don’t have a child outside of wedlock, my family probably won’t object and I’m pretty confident you lack the means of getting me pregnant.”

“Well if you’re sure,” Rowan said hesitantly.

“Completely. If anything, my family would celebrate me entering a union, even if only briefly, with the Ardent Flame of Midiris. I do have one request, however.”

Alena’s ears flattened slightly as she readied herself to speak again.

“If someone else takes your fancy or we part ways for some other reason, please don’t forget me.”

Rowan looked at Alena seriously and kissed her. “I’m not going to forget you, silly, nor do I intend to let these feelings die. Even if someone else enters the scene, I hope you’ll let me keep on loving you.”

“Why would I want you to stop?”

“Well if I found myself loving multiple people, you might not want to share,”

“Is that all?”

“Yes?”

“Then I don’t think we have anything to worry about. I wouldn’t dream of trying to contain an Ardent’s emotions. If that means you loving multiple people, then I am beyond willing to accept that possibility. More than that even. I would share in your love if you’d let me.”

“As in, having you join me in loving multiple people? Of course, I would!”

“That’s great! I didn’t think you were an exclusive harem kind of girl, but these things are worth checking.”

“I’d be happy if you were able to love many people, not just those that I also love,”

“Likewise. This kind of reminds me of how the Ferran clans used to do things. I know some still do, but polyamory used to be fairly common in our race.”

“So I’ve heard. Just one thing though. Do you just like girls, or do you also like guys as well?”

“It depends on the person.” Alena smiled. She started edging closer to Rowan, tail swishing mischievously behind her. “What I do know is that I like you a lot and I think I’m ready for another round.”

Before Rowan could respond, Alena locked lips with her and the embers burst into flame. Eventually, the embers returned as the two drifted off to sleep in the wee hours of the morning. Still, even in slumber, the embers were fueled by passion.

Chapter 24: The Blush of Dawn

The touch of crimson settled on Rowan's cheeks as a euphoric tingling rushed through her body, jolting her awake. She settled back down into the plump mattress that had been struggling to lull her to sleep since she had arrived. Last night, it had finally succeeded in bringing her comfort. Unfortunately, that comfort was now marred by a slight damp feeling between her legs. Rowan looked at the glistening wetness of her fingers and sighed.

She had found the partner in crime to her dream and she wasn’t sure how she was supposed to proceed. Cleaning up after herself wasn't exactly an option and even if it was, she wouldn't know where to begin. At the same time, broaching the subjects to the maids wasn't exactly an easy ask either. What was she supposed to say?

Rowan threw off the covers in frustration and shuffled out of bed. It was a surprisingly difficult challenge due to the softness of the mattress but she managed. Now free, Rowan tried coming up with some ideas of what to say while offering them up to her highly judgmental reflection.

"Hey, Avra, I just masturbated! Could you get someone to change my sheets, please?" That was her third attempt and she couldn’t help but cringe. Even just saying it to herself sounded ridiculous. "I mean, it's a totally normal thing, isn't it?" she mumbled to herself. "I'm sure most of them have done it at least once and it's not like I had sex. That'd be a much bigger mess. Maybe I'm overthinking this and dinnae need to say a thing? But what if they gossip?"

Rowan needed to clear her head and get away from the scene of the crime before anyone realised she was awake. It wasn’t that she felt like she had done anything wrong, she was just extremely embarrassed and it would be clear to anyone who saw her. Seeing her might not even be necessary for people to feel her embarrassment; Projection was just one of those abilities she hadn't learned to control; that's why she needed to clear her head.

Unfortunately, an army of vigilant servants stood between her and her non-existent destination.

"I should probably have one of those," she muttered quietly to herself.

That was the first step and it was a rather essential one. Unfortunately, her options were rather limited on account of not really knowing what there was to do or see around the palace. Then she realised there was a place that she had been neglecting on account of time that would be perfect for the task at hand; somewhere that could guide her emotions away from embarrassment. There were other, almost perfect locations, but they would need to wait.

Sorry, Amran.

For now, however, she had her destination; the Royal Gardens awaited her arrival. Before she could leave, however, there was still one thing she needed to do that could put her entire operation in jeopardy; bathing. Unfortunately, it was very much a requirement, given the fact that she was still a wet sticky mess.

Before she took her dip into the large bath, Rowan readied herself some casual clothes in the form of a burgundy tunic with a gold trim and midnight blue leggings. She also made sure to set aside the badge that marked her as a guest of the crown as a just in case.

She didn’t dwell in the water for long. Her embarrassment had started to die down, but she was set on not alerting anyone for the time being. It was actually nice to have time to herself. Occasionally, that is. Too much time alone is an isolationist hell that Rowan wouldn't wish on anyone who struggled with loneliness. It's just that being around people can be its own form of draining or terrifying hell due to the sheer weight and magnitude of people's emotions.

Rowan's own were already enough for a small army so some momentary respite from everyone else sometimes gave her the chance to centre herself. It also gave her the chance to vent any excess emotions without anyone seeing. That was her hope at least; she hadn't had much opportunity to be alone and free over the past five years after all.

Once she was ready, Rowan enacted her escape plan which, in a mirror of her destination, started in her own private garden. It was an enclosed space to offer some open luxury without sacrificing the palace's defences. However, such defences were designed to keep people out, not in, especially a determined Ardent. Furthermore, the enclosed nature of the garden meant that Rowan also had access to the upper levels. All she needed was an open window and zero witnesses. It was a rather fun challenge despite stealth not exactly being her forte.

Somewhat surprisingly, the open window came without much difficulty. In fact, Rowan had several to choose from. Of course that introduced its own suite of problems, which became very apparent with the first window she tried. In hindsight, the evidence all pointed towards trying any of the windows besides that one, but the moans fell on deaf ears as she climbed the large cherry tree that had made the choice for her. As she pulled herself up on the window sill, she discovered a young man enthusiastically thrusting into one of the maids against the far wall. At least, Rowan guessed that she was a maid by the hastily removed uniform that still clung to her body.

Rowan found herself entranced by the rhythmic measure of the man's hips and the way he passionately kissed the woman's neck as she clawed at his back.

The couple nearly caught Rowan staring as they made their way to the bed but she managed to drop down and hang from the window before they spotted her. That's what she hoped at least, but it was enough to remind her of the task at hand and that the window had been removed from the equation. Before retreating back to the garden she took one last peek before thanking the Goddess that the tree had provided extra cover from everywhere else that she could have been seen from.

The second time, she put a little more thought into choosing an escape route rather than taking the easiest route. It was more challenging than she had hoped as her mind kept wandering to the couple upstairs and how they were rather brave having somewhat audible sex with an open window. Then again, they were practically fucking against the door so they probably weren't trying to keep the deed a secret.

Rowan muttered something to herself as she recalled some novels she had read when she was a child. Admittedly, they were significantly less explicit than what she had just witnessed.

"Aren't maids and noblemen supposed to be some kind of forbidden romance," she said quietly before sighing in frustration. "All this sex is far too serendipitous. I'm not still dreaming, am I?" Rowan pinched herself to make sure only to call into question how reliable a method it was for checking wakefulness; everything else felt real after all.

Her only choice after that was to try and focus again. She had seven windows to choose from, six if you discounted the one she had already tried.

"This would have been so much easier if I'd actually been up there more than once." Unfortunately, there hadn't been much reason or freedom to explore the palace in the short time she had been staying there. Despite that, it seemed likely that most of the windows would lead to bedrooms, offices, and other private spaces for various guests, officials, and diplomats who called the Dusk Wing home, none of which were ideal.

After thinking about it for a little bit longer, Rowan realised that she would need to risk being a voyeur to get a better vantage point on the windows. Ideally, climbing the tree again would let her find an empty corridor on the other side of one of the open windows. Empty in the sense of zero people that is. A completely empty corridor would probably weird her out.

As she climbed the tree, Rowan did her best to remain as quiet as possible so that she didn't alarm the couple in the nearby room. To further aid in not alarming them, Rowan also made sure to stay on the other side of the tree and not climb quite as high. Unsurprisingly she did see a couple of people once she was in position including an aged man sleeping at a desk. Rowan was actually a little worried about him as his window was one of the open ones.

Alas, there wasn't really anything she could do about it so she instead continued with her search. As her head panned towards the row of windows above her apartments, she found what she had been looking for in the form of a hallway lined with vases and small decorative figures on either side and paintings between the doors on the far wall. It had some traffic but not too much in this still early hour. All Rowan had had to do was time it right and she'd be free.

With a route in mind, Rowan hopped down from the tree and made her way back towards her apartments so that she could climb up. Before getting there, however, she decided to take a slight detour by way of the old man's study. The climb was a wee bit awkward, but Rowan didn't want him catching cold when she could have at least mitigated some of the risk to him.

The fact that it was a corner window helped her approach the climb more quietly as it allowed her to stem up the wall. Typically she would have preferred running up the wall but she wanted to avoid any potential surplus noise. There was another advantage to stemming in that it would be easier to hold herself up with her legs as opposed to her arms as she pushed the window closed.

A couple of minutes later the window to the man's study was almost completely shut. All it needed was to be fastened in position. With that done, Rowan got back onto the task at hand. The way to the hallway required a different approach as the window was more central.

Fortunately, there was a light fixture that Rowan would be able to mount for some extra height. Doing so would provide her with most of the height that she needed but she’d still be short by a couple of feet. As for the remaining height, she reviewed her options. She could try jumping, but she knew how disastrous that could be if she failed. Furthermore, it was far too 'loud' an action when she was trying to be stealthy.

Her other option also left a lot to be desired, as it left her dependent on the very small gaps in the stonework where the mortar had broken away over time. It was still preferable and Rowan had the hands and strength for it to be possible. She still had to be careful, however, as Seres and the maids would throw a fit if she damaged her nails immediately before a ball amongst other things.

Rowan started by clawing her left hand to get full coverage of a hold just above her while smearing with her right foot to get some extra height. That gave her a nice hold for her right hand, letting her clamber up the rest of the way. She had to hang there for a second for one of the servants to pass. Then she pulled herself up, extremely grateful that the window was still open.

To avoid any potential awkwardness, Rowan walked in the opposite direction to the servant only to stop dead in her tracks as someone else walked onto the corridor. Rowan instantly found herself blushing as her eyes fell on the maid from earlier, now fully dressed.

Seeing a flustered Rowan, the young maid stopped and asked her, "Can I help you?"

"No, I'm good," Rowan replied a little too quickly.

"Okay then," the maid replied, resuming her path down the hallway only to be stopped a few seconds later.

"Actually," said Rowan, "I'm a little lost."

"Oh?"

"You see, I've only been here for a few days and I felt like going for a walk, but I don't really know my way around yet and I wasn't really paying attention to where I was going when I had the bright idea of visiting the Royal Gardens, but I don't know how to get there from here."

By the time Rowan had finished speaking, she realised that she had practically forgotten to breathe, a feat which garnered her an impressed look from the maid.

After waiting a few seconds to give Rowan a chance to breathe, the maid responded, "If it's the Royal Gardens that you seek, I can take you there."

"I wouldn’t want to distract from your other duties," Rowan replied with a slight cough in an attempt to hide any signs of embarrassment or insinuation from the maid.

"Worry not, I can put aside some time to assist an honoured guest. My duty is to serve, after all."

"I'm sure I'd manage with just a couple of directions."

"I'd feel more confident guiding you myself."

This maid is impossible!

Rowan was not prepared for this encounter. A random maid or servant would have been one thing, but this one particular maid at this particular time was one of the most awkward potential encounters imaginable and she wasn’t getting any of Rowan's hints.

In the end, Rowan gave up and let the maid take the lead. Her name was Avalin and Rowan learned rather quickly that she was surprisingly talkative. In just a short amount of time, she learned that Avalin typically worked front of house which led Rowan to believe that her sojourn to the Dusk Wing was just for pleasure. Thinking about it, guiding Rowan was a good excuse to bring her back to where she was supposed to be working.

Avalin was still talking as they walked through the large palace doors en route to the gardens. "Even to this day," she was saying, "I don't know why they call the front of the palace the Day Wing. Like I understand the day part because it fits in with how the other areas of the palace are named after times of day, but it isn’t a wing like those areas."

"Maybe it's a leftover from when the palace was smaller?" Rowan suggested.

"I hadn't considered that," Avalin replied.

"I remember reading about it in a book when I was younger," Rowan admitted.

"Ah. I'm not really much of a reader. Never had much reason to be really. Anyway, before I lament my lack of childhood reading, the Royal Gardens are just up ahead through that gate. I must get back to work now, but if you need any assistance, ask any of the staff on hand and they'll be able to aid you or send for help."

"Thank you," said Rowan with a smile, bidding Avalin farewell and making her way to the garden. She was glad to be relatively alone again. There were other people around as well which made things ideal as it meant she wasn't completely isolated. Anything was better than isolation.

The garden was sectioned off from the rest of the palace grounds by way of a large sweeping gate and elaborately patterned hedge walls. Somehow they had managed to combine various differently coloured plants to paint a whole array of beautiful patterns on a canvas of verdant green.

Standing on either side of the gate were two ceremonial guards wielding spears. They looked a little funny with their overly serious expressions and obnoxiously feathered hats. Even so, Rowan couldn't help but feel like they were exceptionally deadly in spite of that. They also let her walk right past them without so much as a glance, at least not any that Rowan saw.

Once inside, Rowan was treated to a sight beyond her wildest imaginings. It was as if she had been thrown into a fantasy world in between blinks. Immediately before her lay a vast lawn on either side of the central path that led toward a fountain.

As she walked along the path, Rowan could see hints of colour amidst the grass. It was difficult to see exactly what the colour was, however, as she lacked the height to get a good look. Furthermore, she was a wee bit more focused on the statues that lined the path. Unlike normal statues, these ones looked like they had been shattered, yet they still held a semblance of form. That is to say that the parts floated in the air, connected only by wires to keep them in shape and prevent them from drifting apart. It gave them the appearance of heroes who had been broken down but still refused to give up.

That was Rowan's interpretation at least and it only added to her awe. It was her first time seeing Gravitational Resonance after all, and it was a lot to take in. She had read about it before, but the idea had always seemed far-fetched. Now she had no choice other than acceptance.

To top it off, the statues weren't even the last of the fantastical elements that Rowan had been presented with. The fountain at the end of the path gave rise to a herd of glimmering, sea-green, horse-like animals that seemed to gallop out of the water. As Rowan got closer she came to realise that the animals were made almost entirely out of water. If it weren't for her brain insisting that there had to be something else to give the water shape she would have just left it at magic. Instead, she'd need to look deeper when she had the chance.

The water for the fountain was provided by an artificial cascade waterfall. There were stairs on either side of the cascade leading to the upper levels. To the flanks of the stairs were rows and rows of tiered flowers, most of which Rowan had never seen before, and they were all arranged in such a way to complement the surrounding flowers. All in all, it was a feast for the eyes.

Rowan walked up the stairs to yet another incredible view. Unlike the lower level, this level was divided into quadrants by the same stream that was feeding the fountain below. Each quadrant bore a different theme: day and night, dawn and twilight. The twilight quadrant bore similarities to her private garden, only scaled up and much more impressive which was no small feat. In the centre of the four quadrants, stood a brilliant white and gold pavilion with what looked to be a rather impractical sundial on top.

Rowan decided that the pavilion was a perfect place to collect her thoughts and recharge. It was, after all, relatively quiet and out of the way of the gardeners who were already out in full force; probably so that they could get the majority of their work done while things were less lively.

She took a seat and closed her eyes, letting her mind drift. Hopefully doing so would allow her to sort through her thoughts and feelings at least a little bit.

Being an Ardent was hard. Going through life with your emotions turned to eleven was exhausting and that's ignoring the added challenge of being overly sensitive to even the slightest emotional stimulus. There were times when it became so much that Rowan couldn't even express everything she was feeling. Then again, Rowan wasn’t sure that was all because of her being an Ardent. She was like this even before she Awakened, just not quite as extreme. Granted, that may have been because the Naliir bloodline was pushing her to be more like an Ardent even back then. There were so many possibilities.

Instead of dwelling on the challenges of being an Ardent and how her bloodline may have influenced her, she cast her thoughts to her immediate family. Fortune had reunited her with her brother. Now only Tehri and her father remained. She wanted to see them, to hold them in her arms. She hoped that she would be able to get some aid from the Queen to help in that regard once things had settled down in the palace.

The first step would probably be Næmyris and her father. It was a fairly simple trip after all, almost completely river bound. Rowan also wanted to see her mother's grave. Tehri on the other hand required finding first which was easier said than done. It didn't help that the only lead that Rowan had was that she last saw Tehri five years ago in a forest that was probably between Næmyris and the east coast. Rowan just hoped that was enough to narrow down the search.

Alas, only time could tell and the living weren’t the only family on Rowan’s mind. She looked deep into her soul and thought of Rina. With a small spark of hope, she spoke out to her lost twin.

"Hey, Rina. I don’t know if you can hear me or if I'll be able to hear you, but I had to try."

There was no answer.

"Well, I wasn't expecting this to work straight away. It's not like I know how this works anyway."

Again, nothing.

"I guess I'll just speak and hope you can hear me. Maybe I should have tried this while holding Elan Fiir or while my emotions were boiling over. I think I've only ever heard you when I was in a supercharged emotional state. Any ideas why? Some other time, maybe. Anyway, I wanted to ask about a few things and I've just had an idea of how to get through to you."

This time, Rowan didn't wait for a response and instead started to remove her clothes.

"Some genius I am. Coming here was supposed to help me sort through my embarrassment, not make me more embarrassed. Can you…"

"Of course, I can hear you! You're the one who never listens. "

"Well that worked," said Rowan with a small measure of surprise.

"Probably because you're getting all flustered about flashing a bunch of gardeners. I can tell that your mind has been in the gutter all day. Now I'm all worked up because of you."

"I cannae help it. Also, gross."

"Not like that. Now ask me what you want to know so I can tell you. And be quick about it before I retreat to the non-perverted part of your soul."

"Wow, rude."

"I can leave now and your nudity would be for nought."

"Please don't," Rowan pleaded.

"Fine! Just hurry up. It's cold in here."

"You can feel the cold?"

"It was a joke."

"Oh, sorry. Anyway, way back when, you said you were incomplete. What exactly did you mean by that?"

"You've already guessed some of it. When I died, I was still complete which meant that my soul could mature alongside you. Then the eclipse happened and I was able to act with a little bit of independence. It was nice to have some freedom for a change. But then they killed Mother. Even in death, she refused to abandon you. If I hadn't stopped her, she would have called upon the Goddess and our ancestors to take her entire being into Elan Fiir. She would have sacrificed everything."

"That's stupid!"

"I know and I refused to let her do it. At the same time, I knew I couldn't fully convince her, not in the time we had, nor could I take her place."

"Why not?"

"Because my soul doesn't have an essence to Resonate with. At least not one that has any meaning on its own."

"Are you being cryptic on purpose or is it just me?"

"You're the one that wanted answers. To put it simply, my essence gives power through sacrifice. I died, but in return, you're a better Ardent."

"That's not at all grim."

"It's true though. Anyway, after connecting with Mother, I reminded her that by sacrificing herself, she was just delaying the inevitable."

"Not even that. She'd be bound to the sword even when we've moved on."

"Exactly. So instead I suggested that we split the load. Part of me would strengthen her essence in the soul and the other part would reinforce her soul on the other side. That would leave this small fragment with you."

"Do you think I could talk to her?

"The part in the sword for sure. She’s already gotten through to you once. With a fair bit of difficulty, I imagine."

"Rude."

"Deal with it."

"Could I talk with the version of you within the sword?"

"I'm the only me that is still me. With that said, I think your embarrassment is about to be deafening."

"Excuse me?"

"In three, two, one."

Out of nowhere, Rowan heard someone clear their throat behind her. She turned to see Avra standing there with a stern look on her face.

"Good morning, Miss Rowan. You do realise that you are in the Royal Gardens, do you not?"

"Aye?" Rowan wasn’t exactly sure why she answered with a rising tone, but it felt appropriate.

"Do you also realise that you are stark naked?"

"Ah right. About that. There's a reason for that."

Rowan was quickly turning crimson as she fumbled around for an appropriate answer.

"Be that as it may, the Royal Gardens are no place for such overt exhibitionism. That is, of course, assuming that you have not been granted some sort of exceptional status by Her Majesty when I wasn't looking."

"I don't think so?"

"I thought as much. Now put your clothes back on. All this nudity is confusing the gardeners. They did, however, request that I pass on their compliments."

This time Rowan invented a completely new shade of red with her embarrassment.  Meanwhile, Avra bore the faintest hint of a smirk as she saw Rowan's reaction.

"While you process that, I'd like to request that you inform me or another member of staff assigned to you when you decide to go wandering. The princess wishes to break fast with you and she was greatly disappointed when we informed her that you had disappeared. I imagine she is quite hungry now."

"Sorry."

"Apologise to her, not me. And your tunic is on back to front."

A minute or two later, Rowan was dressed again and en route to starting her day proper.

Chapter 23: Soulforged

In the brief moments when Rowan was alone, she realised that she still wasn’t dressed. This left her with the highly awkward conundrum of whether or not she should rush to get dressed. In the end, she decided against it as she was convinced that her brother and Seres would walk in while she was half-naked, or even completely naked, if she was unlucky. Instead, she stayed wrapped in the blanket that had kept her modest in front of the Queen.

As if to spite her decision, her brother and Seres took their sweet time. Every agonising second that she waited felt like a never-ending minute that begged Rowan to expose herself. She persevered for five whole minutes when the door finally opened. Just in time, as well, as she was on the verge of breaking and neither of them knocked. They did, however, make up for it by presenting her with breakfast.

“Some eggs and honey roast gammon with a couple of broiled fried tomatoes for my dear sister,” Tyris announced as he sauntered in with a tray, closely followed by Seres.

“Along with some pastries, jam, and clotted cream,” Seres added with a tray of her own.

“This isn’t really necessary,” Rowan stammered.

“It really is,” Seres replied. “I’m not about to have you collapsing on me again.”

“Now hurry and eat,” Tyris chided.

“Fine!” Rowan harrumphed with a roll of her eyes as she started to dig in. “Am I really supposed to finish this?”

“Doctor’s orders,” Tyris replied.

“And mine,” Seres added. “The crown demands it.”

“I didn't realise that the crown was so demanding,” said Rowan with a slight smile.

“It’s your fault for scaring me,” Seres sniffled in response.

“Sorry.”

“You’re forgiven.”

“Thanks.”

“But only if you finish enough of your meal.”

“You know,” Tyris interrupted before Rowan could respond, “I never believed that I would see a member of the royal family in such casual conversation.”

“Well, consider yourself privileged,” said Rowan a little too quickly as she started coughing on a piece of gammon.

“Here,” said Seres whilst handing Rowan a glass of water, “drink this.”

“Thanks,” Rowan replied as her coughing fit started to ease up.

“I swear you are trying to give us a heart attack,” Tyris laughed.

“It’s not funny,” Rowan objected.

“Oh, but it is, dear sister.”

Seres gave him a look in response. “I’m not laughing,” she said.

“It seems like I have at least one ally in these trying times,” sighed Rowan dramatically.

“And I appear to be outnumbered. Moving swiftly on.”

“Excuse me?”

“The conversation was nearing a dead end so I thought we could just move on.”

“You can’t just run away from the conversation,” Rowan objected.

“There was nothing to run away from and we didn’t just come here to give you breakfast and see how you were doing.”

“That’s right!” Seres exclaimed. “We wanted to talk about your performance. I have so many questions.”

“As do I,” Tyris added.

“I’m not sure how well I’ll be able to answer; I was in some sort of trance.”

“About that.”

“Yes?”

“It was unlike anything I’ve ever seen before.”

“And probably unlike anything you will ever see again,” replied Rowan.

“I’m not surprised,” Seres interjected, “the Resonance from that performance was out of this world.”

“Your mother said something to that effect. What was it like?”

“Incredible,” Tyris answered while Seres said, “Breathtaking.”

“Really?”

“You managed to move and dance with untold martial grace for the better part of an hour…”

“… whilst harmonising every single emotion that you could draw upon.”

“When you say it like that...”

Hearing what they both had to say, Rowan knew it was true. Even if she couldn’t remember exactly what had happened, it was the only thing that could explain what she felt at the time. Which is to say, everything. It was also a solid answer for why she had collapsed and why her body ached so much. The more she thought about it, the more it both terrified her and filled her with wonder.

“I don’t think I want to try that again,” she said.

“Don’t worry, I wasn’t planning on asking you to,” Tyris replied.

“Nor I,” said Seres.

“We know that you probably don’t remember the details, but what did it feel like?”

“I’m not sure,” Rowan answered and she really wasn’t. Even from what she could recall, it had felt like every single experience and emotion had flashed into her very being to fuel the dance. Part of her was scared that she had consumed everything. However, the deeper she looked, the more apparent their lingering presence became. That was a small token of relief, but it was not enough to fully quash her nerves. She didn’t want to forget and, even with the memories being fresh in her mind, she feared they would vanish in an instant.

Upon seeing that she was struggling, Seres gave Rowan a smile. “Take your time, Rowan. There’s no need to rush. Maybe eat some more while you think.”

“Thanks,” Rowan replied, taking a bite out of the pastry. After a few moments of eating and collecting her thoughts in the comforting presence of Seres and her brother, she started speaking again. “A lot happened. It was all so overwhelming. But at the time, I wasn’t really processing it. Not consciously, that is. At the same time, it feels like all my feelings at the time were emblazoned onto my soul or something. The only other thing I can say is that I let instinct and Elan Fiir guide me. Whatever it was that I did, the way I moved, it was how I was meant to move. I don’t know why, but it felt right.”

“Did you feel another presence there with you?” asked Seres out of the blue.

“A what now?” Rowan replied.

“A presence,” answered Seres simply.

“I don’t think so,” said Rowan with a slight frown on her face.

“Are you sure?”

“I’m not sure what the relevance of the question is, Your Highness?” said Tyris, interrupting Seres.

“Stop talking and let me think,” Rowan complained. “Just before I passed out, I think I heard my Ma’s voice.”

Tyris gave her a questioning look while Seres took it in her stride. After a moment, she started speaking. “I want you to listen to me, Rowan. And you, Tyris. This might be very important.”

“Okay…”

“I think that your mother may be Soulforged with Elan Fiir.”

The two Naliir siblings looked at Seres and replied in unison. “Excuse me?”

“When you first touched the sword, Rowan, I saw the myriad ways it Resonated with you. The smaller Resonances were easy to explain considering what you have told me about the sword; they were the remnants of your ancestors whose ‘tears’ were forged into the blade. However, I also saw two much larger Resonances amongst the sea of smaller ones. Alone, neither one of them would make for a Soulforged weapon, but together they harmonise to form a gestalt that is capable of the feat. I don’t know how but that is the only explanation that I can think of.”

“I’m not sure I follow,” Rowan interjected.

“Well, I’m doing my best to explain. Let’s see. So Soulforging binds a person’s soul to an object and imbues it with their essence and in some cases, their legend. That is to say that a person’s essence is shaped both by the individual and the perceptions of those around them. This lets the object and the user draw on that person’s essence. You told Tyris that Elan Fiir felt heavier or more massive when you were swinging it, right?”

Rowan nodded in response.

“Well, I’m guessing that was because you were subconsciously channelling your mother’s weight or something and adding it to either yourself or the sword. You were probably doing the same with her strength and speed to some extent.”

“And the dancing?” Rowan asked.

“In part.”

Rowan gave Seres a sad look. “So it wasn’t really me then, was it?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“You may as well have.”

“Stop, Rowan, and just listen to what I still have to say. The dead cannot override the living. If that dance had none of you in it, it would have been a mess. The skills of another can only add to our own and guide us. Plus, I’ve seen you fight and I could see it all in the way you moved. I firmly believe that that dance was the combination of your own experience and those that you were able to draw on and that is no small feat.”

“The princess is right, Rowan. Back when she was alive, I never once saw Mother move anything like that.”

“That’s a small comfort, I guess. But there is still one last matter that pains me.”

“Go on,” Seres prompted.

“If it really is Ma, then that means she won’t ever be able to truly pass on, right?”

“I don’t think so,” Seres answered. “Remember what I said about neither of the Resonances being enough? That means that somehow, neither one was a complete essence so it's possible that the remaining essence is enough to let what’s left of her soul materialise on the other side."

Rowan looked at her doubtfully. "You don't seem so sure…"

"Well, this isn’t exactly a case with much in the way of precedence and I've not really had the chance to study Resonance these past few years apart from what they wanted me to know," said Seres with some bite.

"Sorry," said Rowan with a downcast look.

"No, sorry, I shouldn't have responded like that. I know this is a lot to take in and it's pretty much all conjecture."

"It will take more research," Tyris mused.

"That's a rather matter-of-fact way of looking at it," said Rowan, trying to hide the notes of bitterness in her voice.

"It's the only way to get answers."

"He's right, unfortunately, and you are the only one that can really do it. I'll do what I can to help but I'll need to learn more."

"Thank you."

"On that note, however, I'm still not sure how you heard your mother's voice. The only people able to communicate with the other side outside of an eclipse are those with the Gift of the Spirit."

"But you said that she isn't on the other side," Rowan countered.

Tyris shook his head. "It's effectively the same thing," he rebutted.

"There must be another bridge. Maybe the essence had the Gift?" pondered Seres.

"Hang on a second!" Rowan exclaimed suddenly, a light shining in her eyes.

"What is it, Rowan?" Tyris asked

"I think I know who the other person is!"

"Oh?"

"Rina!"

"That's impossible," replied Tyris with furrowed brows.

"Who’s Rina?" Seres asked.

"My sister!"

"I thought your sister was called Tehri?"

"Well yeah, obviously. But I'm talking about my other sister."

Rowan had said it as if it was a known fact which only made Seres more confused. "Other sister?" she asked.

"Yeah!"

"Rowan had a twin sister," Tyris explained. "Unfortunately, due to some peculiarities with our family, Rina passed away at only a few months old."

"Okay, that answers one of my questions. As for the other; why do you think she is the other essence?"

"Because I've spoken to her."

"Excuse me?" said Tyris and Seres in unerring unison.

"Well, it wasn’t speaking exactly, but after I Awakened, she would occasionally speak to me when my emotions were really heightened but not so heightened that everything she said was practically landing on deaf ears. She said that she wasn't complete and that's why it was difficult for her to talk to me. And apparently, I'm really bad at listening to within my soul so she kinda had to shout to get through to me at times."

"That does explain why it sometimes looked like you were related to yourself," Seres remarked.

"And I still don't understand a thing," added Tyris with a shake of his head.

"Well, you don't need to understand," said Rowan with a pointed look before turning to Seres. "What do you mean I looked like I was related to myself?"

"Relational Resonance is aways super obvious, especially when it's a blood relation or achieved through a blood tie ritual."

"A what now?"

"It's what people do when they get married or adopt."

"Makes sense."

"It doesn't do much beyond facilitating familial bonds but it is visible if you know what to look for."

"And have the requisite eyes for seeing Resonance. The Mark of the Goddess isn't exactly common, Seres."

"I didn't mean it like that, silly."

"Well, that's new," Tyris remarked.

"Shut up, Tyris!"

"I'm just saying that this is a surprisingly familial relationship."

"Don't mind her, Tyris. You're not entirely wrong either; Rowan has been like a sister to me over the past five years."

"It was the least I could do."

"What she means is that she needed it, too."

Seres was right about that; Rowan wouldn't have survived long without familial bonds. The more she thought about it, the more it seemed like she and Seres were one step away from a blood tie.

"Well, that's good," Tyris smiled. "However, I think we've meandered quite a bit with this conversation so it might be an idea to return to the topic at hand."

"Aye, that we should," said Rowan in response. "What were we talking about again?"

"Elan Fiir," Seres answered.

"Oh yeah. What about it?"

"Well, I think we covered some of the stranger aspects of what you went through but it might be an idea to start from the beginning."

"Like with the sword cut against that dummy?"

"Exactly. What amazed me with that was the speed, precision, and power, but not the end result."

"Why is that?"

"Well in the hands of a Naliir, Elan Fiir is an extremely sharp sword."

"Sharp enough to cut metal?"

"Sharp enough, but not necessarily hard enough, so it depends on the metal."

"Steel?" suggested Rowan with an optimistic smile.

Tyrie laughed in response. "If the steel is softer than average or of particularly poor quality then Elan Fiir should be able to cut through it, at least in theory, but that’s a very big if. Certainly, not one I’d want to rely on in a battle.”

Rowan looked down with disappointment at Tyris' admissions.

"Let me explain," Tyris added with the hope of covering his ass. "While the cutting power of Elan Fiir is superior to that of a steel blade with the same dimensions, the difference is more akin to that between a high-quality blade steel and a lower quality steel than say, steel and bronze. Granted, it has an incredibly fine edge and rarely needs honing if ever, and it also has a rather unique property that makes cutting the things that it can cut that much easier."

"Oh?"

"The blade has a variable friction coefficient so when you cut into something it glides right through it."

"As if there was nothing there?"

"Exactly."

"Wow!" remarked Seres. "When you add everything together, it sounds like it's right out of a story."

"You can say that again," Rowan laughed.

"The story of it being forged is a legend in our family," Tyris explained.

"I'd love to hear it sometime," said Seres with a slight smile.

"I'll tell it to you some other time," Rowan promised. "Was there anything else that I should know about Elan Fiir or my performance?"

"Well, you don't need to worry about people stealing it and using it against you," Tyris answered. "It may as well be a rather light blunt object when used by someone outside of the family. It also won’t cut you accidentally."

"That's useful."

"There was one other thing," Seres added. "During the performance, the sword may have ignited."

"Ignited?"

"I think it might serve as a conduit for your powers. A medium that you can channel them through. Though, I'm guessing that not every emotion will have an effect that translates well. Oh gods, the idea of getting the impression that your sword is blushing at me is mortifying. Please keep it out of sight when Lady Alena is in the room."

"Seres!" Rowan exclaimed, "My brother is right there."

"Should I list the other people that you have the hots for then? Or maybe only the ones that might reciprocate?"

No words came from Rowan's crimson face. Instead, she dove into her covers and refused to move.

"I think that’s our cue to leave," Tyris remarked, trying to stifle his laughter.

"And here I was thinking that some embarrassment would do her good."

"I'm sure it will. In which case, maybe I should tell you some stories from her childhood."

"I think I'd like that."

The only response from Rowan came in the form of highly muffled thumping that had little impact against the soft mattress.

"Well, let's start with the legendary quest that Rowan went on with her two friends in search of a great prize…"

This time Rowan threw off the covers and screamed, "Get out!" in crimson embarrassment. Seres and her brother were all too happy to oblige, confident that their work had been done. The purpose of the work was a mystery to Rowan, but their smug expressions drove her crazy.

*****

The next couple of days were spent following a doctor-regimented plan to help get her ready for the ball. It was essential that she gained a little more weight and had enough stamina to last her through the night. Neither were going to be easy tasks to accomplish, especially in such a small time frame, but Seres had been adamant. However, in a show of solidarity, Seres was going through the same treatment.

Overall, the process left a lot to be desired, especially when it came to meals as they were the linchpin that held everything together. They were dense in nutritional value and enriched with ingredients that manipulated the metabolism in bizarre ways. Unfortunately, a lot of it tasted extremely unpleasant, which put a significant dampener on the more appealing dishes. Rowan likened the worst of it to an over-ripe sourgrape mixed with highly pungent blood cheese and fermented Drakiir liver.

"No wonder this isn't marketed as a quick weight fix," Rowan groaned after one such meal.

"I'm pretty sure I can feel my body digesting the food and distributing me."

"You're telling me! My boobs feel like they've doubled in size!"

"That isn't exactly an impressive feat," replied Seres in a mock tone.

Rowan immediately gave her a look. "Wow, rude!"

After a second or two of them staring at each other, they burst into laughter.

When they calmed down, Rowan took on a more serious tone. "We must have gained a stone between us."

"Probably. I'm just glad we don't need to do this tomorrow."

"Well, we still have the Muscular Resonance Therapy later."

"And dance lessons after that. I know your mother taught you some ballroom dances but neither of us have really had the chance to practise any of that."

"Don't remind me," sighed Rowan.

"And after our baths, we need to get measured and fitted for our dresses."

"Do we really need to stand around for hours in our underwear for that?"

"Stop complaining. The dressmakers are already working overtime to make sure we are ready so we can at least give them the courtesy of putting up with the discomfort while they work their magic."

"Fine," Rowan huffed with a roll of her eyes. "At least, we'll get some nice clothes from it."

"That we will," Seres smiled. "Though I think it will take more than a few hours to get a reasonably sized wardrobe."

"At least, we actually have some variety now."

"True."

The rest of their day continued much as they had discussed and they were finally free from their trials and tribulations. Rowan fell into a deep sleep that night; one filled with extremely vivid dreams. She dreamt of being reunited with Tehri. It was a happy dream filled with far too many flowers. Part of her felt that it was almost depressingly idyllic. And that was all ignoring the mind's interpretation of a grown-up version of Tehri.

With absolutely no reference for how she might have changed, her mind created an uncanny fusion of herself and Tehri scaled up to the right height without a sense for proper relative proportions. What made it worse is that Rowan could still recognise it as Tehri. She also knew how much it would offend Tehri's artistic sensibilities; it was already offending Rowan's and she was the wrong kind of artist.

She also went through several dream sequences where she alternated between captivity and enacting her vengeance on faceless men and women in regal clothing. For every lord she disemboweled, she was back in the torture room. For every lady she cut down, she re-lived Anri's final moments. Then it all came to a head as the events started to coalesce and happen simultaneously while still being paradoxically distinct.

Once again, her dreams shifted; this time to a brighter and notably more imminent future. She stood in the middle of an impossibly large ballroom wearing an incredibly beautiful and impractical dress that may have weighed as much as she did. She danced what felt like overly stuffy and formal court dances that were strangely nothing like any of the ones that she had ever learned. Instead, they felt considerably like the dances from some of the stories she had read when she was younger where the author didn't really know how to describe a dance properly and instead just explained the steps.

Feeling overly restricted by the formality, Rowan ripped off her dress to reveal something much more sensible and embraced the freedom to move as she so desired. With each passing moment, she pulled someone new into her rhythm. By the end of it, she was doing much, much more than just dancing. That is to say that she was dancing in the sheets. Her partner kept changing and on occasion she found herself experimenting with multiple partners at the same time. She explored their bodies and they explored hers. Intimately.

As the dream edged towards the peak, Rowan woke up.

Chapter 22: Elan Fiir

Rowan stood in the training grounds, a gentle breeze caressing her face. She held Elan Fiir in her hands. It was an exhilarating feeling; difficult to describe. Stronger and more nimble. Weightier and more graceful. The Resonance of the sword rippled through every inch of her body.

"It's bizarre, isn't it?" Tyris asked from where he was standing, just across from her near some training dummies. "Even with only the familial Resonance, I could still feel the latent power. You must be experiencing that tenfold; if not more."

Rowan looked at Tyris with a pensive expression. "Maybe? It's kind of like an extension of myself? Or maybe I'm an extension of it?"

"Well, pondering on the matter isn't going to answer your questions. Let me move out of the way and you can try out some practice swings. I want to make sure you still have proper form after all these years."

Rowan grimaced at that last sentence. She had forgotten how strict and proper Tyris was with martial skills and she hadn't exactly prioritised conventional techniques over the past five years. There wasn’t much she could do about it, however. And realistically, the forms that Tyris had taught her were designed with normal people in mind. Surely Ardents and Stoics would fight differently?

She looked around, hoping that someone would answer her silent question. Instead, she was treated to the sound of sparring and combat drills. Rowan didn't recognise any of the other people training; they were all from the myriad armed forces and were very much focused on looking prim and proper for their audience.

On the edge of the training grounds, Seres, the prodigal princess, sat with the Awakened Pair from yesterday standing at her flanks. It was clear which one was which from the way they stood, even at a distance. The Stoic of the two was standing to attention with his bow strung and ready for action while the Ardent leaned casually on his spear. They were there to observe Rowan to ensure that she wasn't dangerous whilst keeping Seres safe. They also made Rowan feel very nervous, as if she wasn’t yet fully trusted. It was a painful feeling and even made her a little bit angry.

"It's just a precaution," she mumbled to herself as she got into position.

She kept a low guard with a light grip while holding her left hand back far enough to be out of the way but forward enough to be useful in its own right. Then in one graceful movement, she twisted the sword and cut upwards before bringing it straight back down. It was a bizarre feeling, as if she was swinging with the strength and mass of two people. In that moment, she felt a familiar touch guiding her hand amongst a sea of tears.

Then it was over, and the sensation eased, leaving Rowan somewhat confused as it seemed like she had missed what should have been a near-perfect cut. There had been very little in the way of noticeable resistance as she swung. Even Tyris looked like he wasn't quite sure what had just happened.

Doubting herself, she poked the dummy inquisitively. In response to her touch, it collapsed, thrice in twain.

Tyris looked at Rowan, wide-eyed as she staggered back in shock. "Did I really just do that?" she asked.

"You were amazing," Tyris replied. "Well, the results suggest you were. It all happened too fast for me to follow. How did it feel?"

"Heavy? No, that isn't the right word. Massive, perhaps? Yeah, that works. It was like I was swinging something as massive as a person but as light as a sword. I also felt more than twice as strong and you already saw how fast I was."

"Are you sure that's what you felt?" Tyris asked quizzically.

"As sure as sure can be. Why?"

"It's nothing."

Rowan looked at her brother with no small degree of doubt before turning to the princess and calling out to her. "Did you see that, Seres?" she shouted.

"I did," Seres called back. "Keep up the great work, Rowan."

"This is just the beginning."

The exchange caught the attention of the group of soldiers who had been sparring with the hope of impressing Seres. They didn’t do anything overly overt to show their frustration at being overshadowed by a diminutive stranger, but they did keep an eye on her while they continued to train.

Too exhilarated to feel their baleful gaze, Rowan turned back to look at her brother expectantly. "So, what's next?" she asked.

"Good question. Well, I don't think that we'll make much progress with the testing dummies; you've already proven that you're more than a match for them. How about this? Stand in the ring over there and show me what you've got."

"Any particular forms?" Rowan asked.

"No," Tyris replied quickly. "I want to see you as you are now as opposed to the adolescent you that I taught. As much as I wish it were so, you are not that girl anymore and I want to know how you've changed."

"Okay…" Rowan responded hesitantly. It felt uncharacteristic of Tyris and she didn't like how it brought attention to the distance of time between them. Even though she knew that he wanted to close that gap as much as she did, it still hurt. Even so, she also knew that this was an opportunity to speak with more than just words. In the ring, she had a chance to paint a picture of her experiences.

The ring was a simple design, delineated by a raised earthen border painted a deep, slightly luminescent blue. It contrasted well with the light dirt floor and any potential blood from sparring accidents. Granted, that last part was largely conjecture as the ring was free from any and all blood, much to Rowan’s surprise. She was far too used to the bloody arena in the caves. The lack of blood was a larger comfort than Rowan expected as it chased away the slight anxiety as she stood in the ring.

Taking a few breaths to ready herself, Rowan adjusted her grip and let her feelings guide her. Instead of taking a standard guard, she adopted a stance somewhere between the starting position of a dance and an open guard. She felt more limber than ever as if a monolithic burden had been vanquished. It was an exhilarating feeling, one of trust and faith. And then she remembered. She remembered every fight she had been in from the caves to Bragi's fall to the snowball fight all those winters ago. She remembered the night her mother died. She remembered how her mother fought; how she danced. She remembered her mother. A single tear hit the ground and the song began.

Rowan danced and fought with every last memory, guided by her emotions. In her heart, she found strength. In the depths of her soul, she found harmony amid the chaos of everything. She danced with a radiant desire that touched the hearts of everyone that watched as Elan Fiir whistled a song of hope that shined brighter than the sun.

With the light, came the darkness of hate that brought retributive condemnation to the eidetic phantoms that would bring her pain. But even in the darkest shadow, the way can be lit by a sword engulfed in the flames of anger. However, treading such a path requires love to shield against the darkness and courage to face the dangers. Rowan's heart cried out as all of her emotions permeated every fibre of her being.

She lost herself in the dance. With each movement, she sensed everything and nothing. With every step, she found grace beyond reason; fear and serenity acting in oxymoronic unity. She left no openings as she swept from phantom to phantom, cutting each one down with great and terrible beauty.

When her dance came to a close, she was breathing heavily. Her battle was over, she had conquered her phantoms and won their hearts. To call it a flawless performance would be disingenuous as that would suggest that there was something to compare it to. In truth, it was a one-of-a-kind performance, an immortal moment known only to those who bore it witness.

Rowan knew that she would never again be able to replicate it, especially as she wasn't even sure exactly what had happened. It was all in the moment. Even capturing the feeling would be difficult beyond imagining. One aspect she would never forget, however, was her mother's presence. It was with her the entire time and remained even now.

Rowan wasn’t sure how much time had passed and she hadn't noticed the exceptionally large audience that she had managed to acquire; she was focused only on her brother and Seres. She didn’t have the energy to do much more than that. She smiled at them and hit the floor.

"It's okay, Rowan, you can sleep now."

The last thing Rowan heard before she passed out was her mother's voice.

*****

Rowan woke up in the overly soft bed in her quarters to an extremely unexpected visitor. Queen Elarin sat in a chair across from her, accompanied by a maid and two guards, both female.

"I see you are finally awake," said Queen Elarin as Rowan clambered up and shyly brought the blanket around herself.

"Y-your Majesty!"

"Indeed. You gave Seres and your brother significant cause for alarm when you collapsed."

"I'm sorry."

"You don't need to apologise," said Elarin, shaking her head. "It was clear that you were just exhausted. I must say it was a truly impressive performance?"

"You saw it?" Rowan asked with considerable surprise.

"The latter half, yes," the Queen replied. "From what I'm told, the runner that informed me of the performance was sent around ten minutes in."

Rowan gave her a look of shock. "Ten minutes?"

"Indeed. And I was present for the last twenty or so."

"No wonder I was so exhausted!"

"Do you think your strength has returned?" Queen Elarin asked.

"I guess? That is to say, I feel more awake, Your Majesty."

"Excellent. With the aid of our healers and chefs, you'll make a full recovery. For now, let's start with some water." With that, Queen Elarin motioned to her maid to pour Rowan a glass.

Rowan accepted the glass with a smile. "Thank you, Queen Elarin."

Queen Elarin looked at her with a smile of her own. "It is the least we can do, Rowan. I saw the truth of your emotions in that performance. Even at a distance it was vivid beyond compare, visceral even and Seres saw far more than just emotion. In her own words, the Resonance was thick enough to be tangible and painted a song of experiences like a beautifully awful cacophony."

"That's…" Rowan wasn’t really sure how she was supposed to respond to that. "Where is Seres?"

"In the reading room with your brother. It was almost impossible to get her to leave your side. She was never like this as a child. Not exactly, at least. You really made an impression on her."

"I just did what I could," said Rowan, shaking her head. "She did much more for me."

"I'm sure she would say the same about you. I, for one, believe that you benefitted each other pretty much equally. If anything, you both formed a gestalt of mutual aid."

"You really think so?" Rowan asked with a pleading look in her eyes.

"You have my word as Queen."

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"Think nothing of it."

"I think that'd be impossible," Rowan sighed.

"Such a dramatic sigh," Elarin laughed. "Unfortunately, the time has come for me to take my leave. However, before I go, I have one last thing to say."

"Yes?"

"In five days time, there will be a ball to celebrate Seres' return and honour you and your friends who made it happen as well as all those who have suffered because of the foul operation you fell victim to. I intend to show my gratitude in full and will greatly appreciate it if you would attend as a guest of honour. Your friends have already been invited."

"Yes, of course. It'll be a massive honour to accept. That was probably a redundant comment considering the position. There is something I must ask though."

"Go ahead."

"My friend, Amran. His ankle was injured in the escape. Is he okay?"

"He should be. I sent our best healers to see him after Seres told me about the escape. They had to remove the foot, but he has been provided with a prosthetic and a more functional one is being crafted as we speak."

The news filled Rowan with joy and sadness as well as a little bit of guilt. On the one hand, Amran was in good hands, but he had lost a foot because of her. She gave Queen Elarin a sad little smile. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she said, "I won't keep you any longer."

"Shall I send in Seres and your brother? I'm sure they'd like to speak to you."

"Please."

With that, Queen Elarin took her leave with the maid and guards in tow. Meanwhile, Rowan readied herself for the conversation that was bound to follow with Seres and her brother.

Chapter 21: Reunion

Rowan's heart was beating a thousand times a minute. She could hardly believe that Tyris was right there on the other side of the door. Part of her was scared. A large part. It was all so sudden. What happened to being given a chance to prepare? How had Tyris had the chance to prepare? Her thoughts were racing; a feeling she still wasn’t used to.

"Ow!"

Something hit her on the forehead. It was sudden and instantly brought her back to the present. When she looked around to see what had happened, the culprit became immediately apparent. Seres was leaning over towards her with her arm stretched out in a prime flicking position.

"Breath, Rowan," she said. "Come on. Deep breaths. You can do this."

"I can do this!" Rowan replied before hyperventilating again.

"Are there any bags nearby, Avra? Something impermeable would be ideal."

"I shall look around immediately, Your Highness."

"And apologise to Rear Admiral Naliir for the wait."

"Of course."

When Avra left to fulfil Seres' order, she turned back to Rowan and took a seat beside her. "Come on Rowan. You've been through trials far beyond the ken of most mortals. It isn't like you to fall at the first emotional hurdle. Embrace those feelings and greet your brother with everything you've got. You aren't going to scare him away and I've seen worse."

The entire time, Seres was rubbing Rowan's back gently while she calmed down. It took her a good five minutes to fully recover from the panic, just in time for Avra to return. Her palms were still sweaty, but she was ready.

"Thank you, Avra," she said, "I should be okay now. Could you send my brother in please?"

"Right away, Mistress Rowan," replied Avra with a bow.

After what seemed like an eternity, she returned with Tyris. He was really there; Rowan was seeing her brother for the first time in almost six years. Time had clearly left its mark on him. His ruddy hair was less vibrant and his face was serious and clearly scarred from battle. He also, somewhat paradoxically, felt taller. But deep down, Rowan could still see the same Tyris she had always known and he was crying.

Meanwhile, Seres saw him for the naval veteran that he was in his extremely well-maintained officer's uniform and with chiselled features. She also saw the undeniable familial Resonance between the two and it only made the strange Resonance of the Naliir family all the more apparent. It did not, however, explain why Rowan occasionally expressed the same familial Resonance with herself. The last thing that stood out to Seres was the long, flat case in his right hand with two large locks that was made all the more notable by the Resonance that was tangible even through the container.

Across the room, Tyris looked at his sister for the first time in an eternity. She had grown to be beautiful like their mother. More so in fact, with hair that shone like truest crimson and eyes like gentle violets hiding a thirst for blood. He saw a strength in her that he couldn't explain despite how small and frail she appeared. Beside her sat the second princess, the very reason that he had been called to war, just like Rowan was his reason for answering.

Like Rowan, Princess Seres was also extremely small and frail, little more than skin and bones, but she was notably more filled out than Rowan. Looking at them side by side, even Tyris couldn't deny that they had a strange resemblance that wasn't quite familial, but something close. It reminded him of Tehri, the one member of his family that was still unaccounted for. Despite his best efforts to keep a strong face, he started crying. Readying himself for what came next, he placed the case he was holding down.

"It's good to see you, littlest Rowan," he said, greeting her through his tears.

"Hi, Tyris," she replied, also crying, "I'm home."

Then, after a slight push from Seres, she got up, and took two flighty steps forward before leaping into Tyris' arms.

He clung to her tightly, not wanting to let her go but also scared that she would break. Meanwhile, Seres just let the reunion play its course. After a while, when the two Naliir siblings had had their fill of tears and heartfelt comfort, Rowan released herself from her brother's arms and took a step back.

"We should probably take a seat," she said, motioning towards the soft chairs.

"Yes, let's," Tyris replied, before turning to Seres and bowing. "Forgive me for not introducing myself, Your Highness. I hope you understand that I have not seen my sister in a very long time and feared I never would. My name is Tyris Naliir, Rear Admiral of the Second Royal Strike Force Flotilla."

"There is no need to apologise, Rear Admiral, nor to be so formal," replied Seres with a smile. "You are the brother of my hero so I can hardly ask you to address me as if I am leagues above you. Please, take a seat and have some tea.”

"Thank you, Princess."

"I cannae believe you're actually here," said Rowan to Tyris after he took his seat.

"Nor I you, dear sister. We thought you were lost to us."

"What about Tehri? Is she safe?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing," Tyris replied with some confusion.

Rowan immediately gave him a concerned look that bordered on fear. "Why?" she asked.

"Because I haven't seen her since I visited for the Winter Solstice before the eclipse."

The answer filled Rowan with terror. "B-b-but I saved her," she stammered through heavy eyes. "The raiders had taken us captive and they were going to kill Tehri. I killed them first. With Ardent ferocity, I slaughtered them like nothing else mattered. All to give Tehri the chance to escape. I saw her run away. I told her to find you or Da. She has to be alive. She has to be."

"I'm sorry, Rowan. I haven't seen her and as far as I'm aware, neither has Father."

"I'm sure she's out there, Rowan," Seres interjected. "There could be any number of reasons she didn't find her way home. I'll ask Mother if she can send people out to help find her."

"Thank you, Seres," Rowan replied, shaking slightly from fear.

"Yes, thank you," Tyris added.

"Is Da okay?" Rowan asked her brother.

"He's managing," Tyris answered. "The years haven't been kind to him and the loss of mother was harsher still. He was barely coherent when he told me what happened, but I'm sure he'll be happy to see you. I wish I could say more than that, but I haven't seen much of him since the attack."

"I'll do my best to see him soon."

"Sorry that this reunion has been such a downer," Tyris apologised, "but, I do have some good news."

"Oh?"

"I got married last year."

Rowan immediately brightened up at that. "Congratulations!" she exclaimed loudly. "Who’s the lucky person?"

"Me," Tyris answered with a straight face, making Seres laugh.

"Stop that," Rowan complained to both her brother and her friend.

"Sorry, but it's true. I really am lucky beyond belief to have met her. She actually saved my life back during the crusade of the raiders. She's a doctor you see and I got poisoned in one of the battles. It was through her healing touch that I was able to go on fighting and in time we soon grew close. I won’t bore you with the details, but she gave me back my heart when I thought it was gone for good and now she is with our child. You're going to be an aunt, Rowan."

"Congratulations." This time it was Seres offering the congratulatory phrase as Rowan's jaw had hit the proverbial floor in shock.

"Her name is Talia and I'm sure you'd love her," Tyris continued. "I hope you can meet her soon."

"We'd be honoured," Seres replied.

"You too, Your Highness?" Tyris asked in surprise.

"Of course. Rowan has been my friend, guardian, and sister for the past five years, so I'd like to be there for her in this joyous moment. If you would permit it, that is."

"I see no reason to refuse you. Any friend of Rowan's is welcome if she so wishes. Though, Rowan, if you do want to bring people in addition to the princess, I'd appreciate it if you let me know in advance so I can have food prepared."

It took Seres nudging Rowan in the side to get her to answer. "Um, right. Yes. I'll do that," she said with an awkward smile.

"Was she like this when she was younger as well?" Seres asked.

"All the time," Tyris answered. "Even back then, she was like a mini Ardent, both in terms of her size and her mercurial nature. And now she actually is a mini Ardent, though not quite as small as she was back then. What's it like, Rowan? I'm not asking you to relive your Awakening, but I'm curious to know what it's like now."

"I don't really know how to describe it other than everything is more intense. Kind of chaotic, like a storm. But even in all the chaos, there is a weird sense of clarity if you know where to look. Though, that is admittedly rather difficult at times. I'm stronger too. Even like this, I could probably beat you in an arm wrestle if my emotions were strong enough."

"I'm not so sure," Tyris said, somewhat sceptically.

"My money would be on Rowan," Seres opined.

"It would depend on the intensity of my emotions at the time. It's like the stronger they are, the stronger I am. But they also let me do weird things like create heat or even fire when I'm angry. When I'm scared, my senses go through the roof and there are times when my reaction speed becomes obscenely high. I'm still not sure what everything does and I'm far from being able to control it, but it is definitely something. I hope that is a good enough answer because I cannae really do any better right now."

"That's more than enough. I was mostly just curious."

"Well, what about you?" Rowan asked. "What's it like being a Rear Admiral?"

"At the moment, it's rather quiet. Ever since we dealt with the raiders, there hasn't been much for the Strike Fleet to do other than assist the Scout and Aegis Fleets. Which is fine by me as it gives me a lot more time to spend with my wife. Even so, it is a massive responsibility, having so many ships and people under your command."

"And I'm sure you are worthy of that responsibility, Master Tyris," responded Seres confidently.

"Thank you, Princess. I wish I could ask more about what life has been like for the both of you, but I know it's been nothing good and I don't want to make you relive anything painful."

"It wasn’t all bad," Rowan responded. "I made some friends and super recently I met a really attractive Ferran lady called Alena and I suspect that she might have certain inclinations."

"I don't," Seres interjected.

"Don't what?" Rowan asked with some slight confusion.

"Share your suspicions," answered Seres smugly before muttering something that Rowan didn't quite catch.

"What was that?"

"Nothing."

"Well, okay then," Rowan harrumphed. "Anyway, as I was saying, I met this really attractive lady. Though, if I'm being honest, all five of them were attractive in their own right."

"That reminds me," Tyris interrupted, "Do you know what happened to Kyr or Kiriin?"

Rowan's face turned dark at the mention of her childhood friends. "Kyr was sold off to slavers right from the get-go; his potential was too low. As for Kiriin, they managed to break her. They used me to get to her and now she's theirs."

"I'm not sure I understand."

"When we arrived in the caves where they held us prisoner, they carved brands into our backs so that they could control and manipulate us if we ever broke." To punctuate her explanation, Rowan turned around, unbelted her tunic, and pulled it over her shoulders to reveal the elaborate markings on her back.

"I'm so sorry," Tyris apologised.

"It's okay," replied Rowan as she put her tunic back on and belted it back up. "I'm going to destroy the people that did this to us and then find a way to free Kiriin and everyone else."

"Well, you have my support," said Tyris warmly.

"And mine," Seres added.

"Thanks."

"With that said, I have something for you, Rowan. But first, I need your approval, Princess Seres, to present my sister with a weapon."

"Why?" Seres asked.

"Because Rowan does not have authorisation to wear or possess a weapon in the palace without a grant from a member of the royal family or the captain of the royal guard. Only the Queen can give Rowan permanent unfettered authorisation, but you can grant temporary approval as long as an Awakened Pair from the royal guard is here. They are waiting outside and possess the keys to this case. Do you consent to this?"

"I do," Seres answered while Rowan squirmed about in anticipation.

"In which case, Mistress Avra? Would you please be so kind as to summon the two gentlemen that are waiting patiently outside?"

"Right away," Avra replied. A moment later she returned with two men wearing the black and silver uniforms of the royal guard, one accented in red and the other in blue. It was practically impossible to guess how old they were beyond significantly older than they looked.

"Okay then," Tyris spoke up, "would you please confirm that you consent to me presenting Rowan with the weapon in this case, Your Highness?"

"I do."

"Excellent. Gentlemen! If you'd be so kind."

In response to Seres' consent and Tyris' request, the two men each pulled out a key from inside of their coats and unlocked the case. With it open, Tyris reached inside and took hold of the sword that lay there. Then, in a resonant tone, he started speaking. "As promised on the eleventh anniversary of your birth, I come bearing the tears of our ancestors, so that you may use it with their blessing. Do you, Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir, accept your birthright? Will you accept Elan Fiir?"

"Aye! A thousand times over."

"Then take it," Tyris said humbly while proffering the sheathed sword.

It was exactly like Rowan remembered it, untouched by time. She took hold of Elan Fiir by the deep red leather scabbard which had been made from the scaled hide of an extinct magma-dwelling cousin of a Drakiir and decoratively plated with blackened star metal. Rowan's other hand drifted down to the hilt which bore an elegant, almost swept guard made from a metal that was somewhat similar bronze, only more vibrant and glistening like crystal. Her hand sat nicely between the guard and the pommel with enough room to give her versatility of grip, but not so much to be impractical.

Now feeling comfortable with the sword, she strengthened her hold of it and drew it slightly to examine the blade. The silvery crystal-like blade was made from a metal quite unlike any other she had ever seen in that it was slightly transparent. Stranger still was that the blade appeared to cause absolutely no refraction; any light that wasn't absorbed just treated it like it wasn't there. Then, not wanting to push her luck with the guards, she sheathed the sword.

She would need to try the sword out in the field to get a proper feel for it, but it felt right. Unbelievably so. It was as if the burden she carried on her shoulders was gone. Or rather, it was now shared by countless people who were each giving her a small token of their strength. However, amongst all of the tiny stars, two together shone as brightly as the sun.

Next to her, Seres saw it all. In Rowan's hands was a true magnum opus of smithing. Even so, that could only do so much to impress her. What truly amazed Seres was how the sword Resonated. She saw over a hundred tiny voices in harmony that rose to a crescendo when Rowan took hold of the sword, each one improving on the last. And at the core of it all, two brilliant voices sang.

Elan Fiir was Soulforged. Undoubtedly so. The two voices proved it, yet they also called everything Seres knew about Soulforging into question. To forge a Soul was to put a person's very essence into an object, leaving nothing left to pass on to the other side. Such people sacrificed everything. But that wasn't what Seres saw now. Instead, she saw two separate but incomplete essences that seemed to come together to form a gestalt, presumably allowing the rest to pass on. It should have been impossible.

Or not yet observed. I'll need to look into it. Maybe then I'll…

"I was thinking we could meet up again to see what you're made of," Tyris said, speaking to Rowan while Seres remained deep in thought. "It will give you a chance to test out Elan Fiir as well."

"If you think you can keep up," Rowan laughed.

"I'm not a fool. You could outpace me any day of the week even if you are just skin and bones."

"I'm working on that, but I can only gain so much weight in so little time."

"I know. I'm just worrying about you. Needlessly most likely, but I'm not going to let this feeling go. It's a reminder that you're really back."

"That's probably not healthy."

"Probably not. Anyway, I need to get going. I'd love to stay and talk more but Talia is waiting and I promised I'd bring her something exotic to eat."

"I'll see you tomorrow," Rowan smiled.

"That you will," Tyris replied before turning to Seres. "And it has been an honour speaking to you, Princess. I hope to have the chance again in the future."

Still deep in thought, Seres barely noticed, only just managing to nod in acknowledgement. Then Tyris bowed and took his leave. Once again, the two girls were alone. That is if you ignored the maid or the guards. It took some time for Rowan to regain Seres' attention, but when she did, they spent the rest of the afternoon talking right up until their evening meal.

Chapter 20: Midiris

"Hoist the sails! We're bringing her into port."

The large captain of The Wind Rose boomed instructions at his crew as he took the helm. The change in the ship's energy was palpable; Rowan felt it in her bones. That isn't to say that everyone felt the same way. Many were excited or, at the very least, relieved, but a sizable few felt an anxious trepidation at the prospect of being taken to a foreign land.

Seeing the response, Rowan started to realise how only a couple were actually from Llen Fær; the majority were from Særis and Ferran. Rowan's heart went out to those who were scared, but she decided not to dwell on it. She was far too ecstatic for that. Instead, she took hold of Seres and they both looked over the prow of the ship.

For the second time in her life, Rowan looked upon the capital city of Midiris. Two rivers cut through the city's flanks and its walls extended out to sea, shielding the harbour. The entrance to the harbour was guarded by several ballistae and a great Soulforged chain, said to house the very essence of the first Aegis Admiral of Llen Fær. Rowan recalled Tyris telling her how the walls divided the harbour into baileys, much like that of a castle.

As they sailed past the Aegis Chain, Rowan saw that it was true. Before her lay a star-shaped sea fort lined with ballistae and similar weapons. Behind the fort rested even more walls. With the addition of the defence fleet, attempting to take Midiris by sea would make a fool's errand seem like the work of a genius. Even by land, the city would not fall without a serious fight with wall after wall lying between the city limits and the palace at the heart of the city.

Instead of sailing towards either of the commercial ports on the north and south of the city, they went straight for the docks of the court and royal navy. It was a sign of Dralik's importance and how seriously he was taking the voyage. As they approached, one of his men sounded a horn which was greeted by a triumphant fanfare from the navy headquarters that spread throughout the city like wildfire. The sheer volume shook the ship to the core and sent the waves running. They were welcoming their princess home.

"Cast the lines and drop the anchor," Dralik roared, "We're bringing the princess home."

In response, every single man and woman in his command cheered in glorious exultation. When they started to quiet down, Seres whispered to Rowan, "I really wasn't expecting this." She was blushing awkwardly at the welcome.

"What about the captain gave you the impression that he would be anything but subtle when we arrived?" Rowan asked her pointedly.

"Point."

"Given graciously," added Rowan with a mock smile.

"I'm going to look awful in front of all my subjects," Seres sighed. "I don't have a dress or any make-up and there's no time to get any."

Rowan gave her a massive smile in response. "You dinnae need to worry about it. This subject has already seen you looking much worse." After a second or two, she heard the sound of stifled giggling from behind Seres' hand, which she was using in a futile attempt at hiding her own growing smile.

"I'm still a princess. I have an image that I need to maintain."

"Going by the sound of that welcome, I don't think your image is going to be tarnished by a few people seeing you in peasant garb, especially when you are accompanied by a full escort."

"You think?"

"I'm sure of it. Now let's go see the captain. I want to know what's going to happen to everyone now."

The two of them walked over to Captain Dralik as he was overseeing the readying of the gangplank. He nodded to them. "Your Highness. Miss Rowan. I bid you both a joyous return home. What can I do for you?"

"Well," Rowan started, "we were wondering what was in store for us now. Seres is obviously going home, but what about the rest of us?"

"We would have asked you sooner but we were both somewhat nervous," Seres added. "And I think the others find you rather intimidating."

"Hah!" he laughed. "I'm as soft as a mandra."

"And probably just as dangerous," Rowan interjected.

"She's good," Dralik boomed at Seres. "To answer your questions, Miss Rowan, I'll make sure everyone is given a place to stay; somewhere they can rest and clean up. Clothes, as well. They'll be treated well. I'm sure Her Majesty will grant them passage home if they so desire. As for you, I will be escorting you to the palace alongside Her Highness."

Neither Rowan or Seres were expecting that. In unison, they asked, "Why?"

"Because Her Majesty will want to see her daughter's protector. You have done much to keep Her Highness safe these past years and that is something that should be honoured."

"I didn't do it alone," Rowan responded.

"You may have escaped with the help of the others, lass, but last time I checked, none of them took on the extra burden of Her Highness' torture in addition to their own. If anyone is deserving of this honour, it is you. It has already been cleared with the palace. And fear not, the invitation will almost definitely be extended to Master Amran, Miss Maro, Lord Ædarik as well as those in his company when I make my report."

"Thank you. Though I must say I'm still surprised. You're placing a lot of trust in us, especially me. Why?"

"You can't just ask that, Rowan."

"Hah! It's okay, Your Highness. The reason I trust you, Miss Rowan, is because I've spent the entire voyage along with my crew making sure that you are worthy of it. The same goes for everyone else. My Empaths found you to be genuine and nothing you said while the shadows were listening suggested that you were a threat. Not to us, at least."

"Was my word not enough?" Seres objected.

"Begging your forgiveness, Princess, but no. After everything that could have happened to you, it was entirely possible that you were an agent of some kind. I'm sure you thought the same of me before we even started this voyage."

"We did," Seres admitted.

"I'd be worried if you hadn't. Now let us go to the palace. Escort on me. Keilan! Guide the lord and ladies to the Særan embassy. Tenra! Escort the other passengers to the old officer barracks and send a runner out for a healer and a surgeon."

Like a well-oiled machine, the crew of The Wind Rose got to work, following the captain's orders. Dralik, himself, escorted Rowan and Seres down the gangplank before taking them to the palace in the company of ten men and women from the crew dressed in navy parade uniforms. The imposing presence of the captain kept anyone from getting in their way as they marched onwards. Instead, people gawked respectfully from the sidelines.

At first, the procession walked through the utilitarian naval district with its whitewashed and depressingly square buildings. Tyris had always joked that everyone in the navy with an eye for aesthetics always designed ships instead of buildings.

After a mile of walking, they reached the giant gatehouse that separated the naval district from the palace district. The guards on duty were already standing to attention well before they arrived. As they approached, the guards saluted and beckoned them through.

The palace district wasn't actually named for the royal palace at its heart, which was in a bailey of its own, but rather for the highly decorated homes of the Midiran nobility and royal court. Rowan's jaw dropped at the sight. Every single mansion was a palace in its own right it seemed, with architecture to match. Not only that, but the walls were also works of art beyond comparison. Each mansion was a canvas that told a story for the ages in vibrant colour and masterful execution.

Before long, they were finally at the gate leading into the final bailey and the palace which was no less impressive than the ones outside. However, unlike the lesser palaces, the royal palace took a much simpler approach to allow its beauty to shine. Instead of being painted like an elaborate mural, the palace was painted in a sunburst style, darker towards the bottom and becoming brighter and brighter as its towering spires touched the heavens.

"Welcome home, Princess," Dralik boomed.

"I can hardly believe it," Seres replied. "Well, umm, I guess now is the time to extend that welcome to you as well, Rowan."

"It's amazing. This is my first time seeing it so close."

"I'm glad it doesn't disappoint."

"You can gawk later, lass. Queen Elarin awaits."

With that, they were once again on the move into the palace proper. The interior glistened with marble and gold and the walls were lined with tapestries and murals that put the palaces outside to shame. The flag of Llen Fær with the flame sitting on a silver chain hung above the large, heavy doors to what Rowan assumed was the great hall.

Instead of being taken to the great hall like Rowan expected, they went down a corridor to the left of the large doors towards a much smaller audience chamber. Inside, they were greeted by a Ferran woman with burnt orange hair touched with silver and a crown.

The sight of her mother brought tears to Seres' eyes.

"Welcome home, my beloved Seres."

*****

Queen Elarin sat on a small, elaborately carved, wooden throne with a weary smile. Her golden eyes were dark and tired. Ignoring any sense of decorum, Seres ran into her mother's arms and cried. Not sure of how she was supposed to act, Rowan just stood there awkwardly by Dralik's side.

After a moment, Queen Elarin turned her attention to Dralik and Rowan, though she still held Seres in a fierce embrace, as if she never intended to let her go ever again. "Thank you for bringing my daughter home, Captain Dralik," she said with a gratitude that knew no bounds.

"I was just doing my duty, Your Majesty."

"Come now, Dralik. There's no need to be so formal."

"Of course, Your Majesty. Though I must say that your thanks are largely misplaced in me. While it is true that my crew and I were able to bring Seres back, it is this young lass here that made it possible."

Queen Elarin looked towards Rowan with a note of surprise. "And who is this?"

Bowing awkwardly, Rowan answered, "My name is Rowan, Your Majesty. Rowan'efrii Alyris Naliir."

"She's kept me safe this whole time. I wouldn't be here if it wasn’t for Rowan."

"Truly?"

"If the information I have gathered on the voyage here is anything to go by, she has done much more than that," Dralik answered.

"In which case, I wish to formally extend an invitation to stay in the palace, Miss Naliir. You will be our honoured guest. In return, I only ask for an honest account of the past five years."

"I can do that, Your Majesty," replied Rowan with a slight blush.

"Queen Elarin is fine. Tell me, Miss Naliir, your name is familiar. Are you perhaps related to Rear Admiral Naliir and Hlii'hæra, the Heartborne Songstress of the Crescent Isles?"

Rowan recognised her mother's name, but not the title associated with it. She tried to answer, only for the tears to start flowing. "Tyris is my brother and H-hæra is m-my mother. Was my mother."

"News of her passing reached the capital. We were devastated by her loss. You have my condolences. As for your brother, I will have word of your return sent to him."

"Thank you, Queen Elarin."

"With that said, you must be tired. You can give me your account later. Until then, you will be treated as a guest of the crown. I'll have someone from my serving staff to assist you during your stay. If you need anything, feel free to ask them. As for your brother, I shall have word sent to him with due haste."

"Thank you."

*****

Shortly after meeting the Queen, Rowan was being escorted to her new temporary quarters in the dusk wing of the palace by a human maid, roughly forty years of age. Her name was Avra and she was in charge of the serving staff that attended to guests in the palace, meaning she was giving Rowan her full attention.

“I have sent for a tailor and a dressmaker so that we can have some suitable attire made for you. Those rags simply will not do. They’ll see you after you have bathed.”

“Thank you. Um, would you be able to send for a healer as well? I think I might need it.”

“Right away, Miss Rowan. I shall see about slotting that in between your bath and your appointment with the tailor.”

The maid was extremely taciturn in the way she acted and the way she talked. It was rather fitting considering her position, but Rowan wasn’t sure how to process it. She was reminded of Fein and the wardens, but in a non-threatening way. That’s not to say that it was a comforting feeling, either. More accurately, she felt a weird limbo between unease and comfort. At the same time, she was scared that such feelings were driven by paranoia, whilst also knowing that such fear was paranoia in and of itself.

“Are you well, Miss Rowan?” asked Avra.

“Sorry,” Rowan replied, realising that she was staring into space, “it’s nothing.”

“Very well. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. We are at your beck and call for the duration of your visit."

"Thank you."

"Now, your quarters in the Sunfall Apartments are just up ahead. I am sure they will be to your liking."

When they arrived, Rowan's jaw dropped. The rooms were lavish beyond belief, filled with sofas and divans covered in deep purple velvet which balanced nicely with the bright ambience of the room, painted by the gentle light of an evening sun. The decor spoke of the transition of day to night in a way that was striking, but not overbearing.

"Wow!" Rowan said simply.

Avra gave her a satisfied smile. "This is merely the parlour. Or should I say lounge? That is the more colloquial term, is it not?"

"Maybe?" Rowan answered, having not really heard the term before. "I know what a solar, living room, drawing room, and parlour mean, but I don't think I've ever heard someone say lounge before."

"Strange. It is quite a common phrase here in the capital if the other staff are to be believed."

"I'm not exactly from the capital," Rowan stated.

"Yes, of course," Avra apologised. "Well, your chambers are right through here."

Rowan had been provided with four well-sized rooms and access to a garden. As with the parlour, the rest of the Sunfall Apartments were decorated with the theme of evening in mind. Even the garden complimented the theme nicely with the vibrancy of evening roses, pansies, and dusk lilies.

As for her rooms, she had a reading room equipped with several amenities for entertaining one's self or a guest. The bedroom featured a bed that she swore was at least triple the size of her one back home, and it was unbelievably soft; Rowan practically sank into the mattress when she tried it. Right outside of the bedroom was an attached boudoir with a small circular platform towards one end and considerably more mirrors than Rowan felt was, strictly speaking, necessary.

Last of all, was the equally obnoxious, private bathroom suite which was divided into three sections; a toilet room, a dressing room, and a wet room; all of which had proper plumbing. The bath was particularly impressive, being large enough to swim in. It was also already filled and steaming.

"I'll have some of my maids assist you with your bathing and grooming. We have medical ointments that will be beneficial to you as you soak so I shall send for those, as well. In the meantime, feel free to rest."

Rowan nodded and sunk into one of the chairs in the reading room and almost fell asleep when the other maids arrived. Their arrival marked the start of a day of grooming. They started by cleaning Rowan to within an inch of her life. By the end of it, she swore that she would still be sparkling after an entire month. Then they trimmed, styled, and conditioned her hair before using a razor to remove what little body hair she had, leaving her skin as smooth as silk. At each step, they made sure she was happy to proceed, and while it might have seemed a little extreme, she was actually enjoying it.

She was given a break from the intense makeover when the healer came to see her. After she gave him the rundown of what she had been through and the injuries she had sustained, the healer gave her a thorough examination.

"I can hardly believe it," he said at the end of his examination.

"Believe what?" Rowan asked anxiously.

"Other than you being notably underweight, you are surprisingly healthy. Physically speaking, that is. I can detect no abnormalities in your bones or musculature past a few signs of prior fractures. There are also no clear hormonal abnormalities, though that is far from my specialty. I must say, I'm quite surprised by these results. Even for an Ardent, this is impressive."

"Really?" replied Rowan with several notes of surprise, both at the assessment and at the healer's own wonder.

"Indeed. That isn't to say there is nothing that needs to be done. You are far too light. Unhealthily so. I can help with that through a selection of medicines that interact with your metabolism to supplement your weight gain at a healthy rate. This isn’t something we can rush, but it is important."

"Understood."

The healer prescribed Rowan a medicinal cocktail to help with her weight and the issues surrounding it. Then she was onto the tailor and dressmaker where she was made to stand for hours while she was measured and garments were adjusted. The clothes they provided her with were simple in nature. They were, after all, somewhat limited for time and had to make sure she at least had the beginnings of a wardrobe. Furthermore, they were both aware that Rowan would be gaining weight soon, which was rather limiting to them. Even so, they were also cut from incredibly expensive fabric; Rowan could tell just from how it felt on her skin.

By the end of it, Rowan was provided with a light dinner before she collapsed into the bed.

"This is far too soft," she muttered to herself as she drifted off to sleep.

*****

The next morning, Rowan was woken up by a knock on her bedroom door, only to find herself lying down on the hard floor with a pillow and wrapped in a blanket. She couldn’t remember how she ended up on the floor but it was surprisingly more comfortable than the ridiculously soft bed.

"Ahem."

Avra was standing over her with a disapproving expression

"W-w-what!" Rowan stammered. "Aren't you supposed to wait until I say 'come in' or something before you barge in?"

"I gave you a chance to respond. When you did not, I deemed it necessary to wake you up directly."

"Why?"

"Because Her Majesty wishes to break fast with you," Avra answered. "As does the princess."

"I'll be there right away. Just let me get dressed first."

"Of course. I'll be waiting outside."

Ten minutes later, Rowan was being escorted to the Royal apartments. In the interest of time and not much choice, she was wearing a long, maroon-coloured tunic with a gold trim belted at the waist, forest green leggings, and soft leather boots. She had also placed her hair in a loose ponytail after brushing out the kinks from a restless night.

When they arrived, Avra announced Rowan to the Royal family. She saw Seres and Queen Elarin immediately. They weren’t alone, however. Across from Seres, on the Queen's right hand was an incredibly beautiful woman with brown hair with suntouched ears and piercing blue eyes. She wore a soft expression, but Rowan could see the remnants of grim determination on her face.

From context, Rowan could tell that it was Seres' older sister, Elia. On the other side of Princess Elia sat a much younger boy with fire-like hair that seemed to defy gravity. As with Princess Elia, it was obvious that he was Seres' younger brother, Rikta. Unlike the rest of his family, who were keeping their tails low and out of the way, he had his on full display and it was as wild as his hair. It took Rowan by surprise, but his cavalier tail made her realise that all four royals were essentially wearing pyjamas.

"Please, take a seat, Miss Rowan," said Queen Elarin, beckoning her to the seat next to Seres.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Rowan replied, giving the Queen an awkward cross between a bow and a curtsy.

"You don't need to be so formal in such settings, Miss Rowan. As I said yesterday, 'Queen Elarin' is fine. The same goes for my children. Their names are a suitable mode of address here. If you must use honorifics, lord or lady should suffice."

"Understood, Queen Elarin."

Queen Elarin turned to Seres in response. "Dearest Seres, is your friend okay? She is a lot stiffer than you described last night."

"I'm sure she's just nervous, mother."

"Understandable," sighed Queen Elarin as Rowan took her seat. "Anyway, you already know Seres, but that still leaves my other two children. This is my eldest daughter and heir, Elia. Next to her is my rascal of a son, Rikta. I swear my husband gave more than just his seed when Rikta was conceived."

"Mother!" Seres exclaimed with a furious blush.

"It's merely an unfortunate observation, dear."

Silence followed. Even Rowan could read between those lines. The late king passed away from illness not long after Prince Rikta was born.

"It is a pleasure to meet you both," said Rowan with a slight bow of the head to Elia and Rikta, hoping to break up the silence.

"If the reports are anything to go by," Elia responded, "the pleasure is ours."

"Elia speaks truly," Queen Elarin added. "Which brings me to the primary reason I invited you here besides my daughter's insistence. We received Captain Dralik's report yesterday and Seres gave me her account of the events last night. All that remains is for you to give your own as best as you can."

"I'll try," Rowan replied hesitantly.

In a comforting gesture that was impossible to miss, Seres placed her hand on Rowan’s. "It's okay; I'm here for you, Rowan."

Grateful for Seres' presence, Rowan took a deep breath and started her account. "It all began on the night of the eclipse five years ago…"

She told the Queen everything. From her Awakening to the torture and branding. From Anri's death to her bargain with Lord Fein to take on all of Seres' suffering. From her oath of vengeance to the Goddess and their escape. Everything. And she let her emotions fill her every word, lending the account a visceral weight. Rikta had barely paid attention beyond the action, but Elia was furious and Queen Elarin wore a serious expression that showed her years.

"Thank you, Miss Rowan," said Queen Elarin graciously. "Your account lines up with everything I was told yesterday and there was no deceit in your emotions."

"That was never in doubt!" Seres objected.

"It's okay, Seres," said Rowan before turning back to the Queen. "How could you tell?"

"Being an Empath is quite useful for a ruler so I trained with my Gift from a young age."

"That makes sense," Rowan replied.

"Now let us eat," Queen Elarin declared before glancing at Elia. "Some food will help with cooling down some of the more heated emotions that your account sparked."

The gesture was subtle, but it didn't take a genius to understand it. Whilst Elia had barely spoken the entire time, her emotions were clear as day and Rowan knew she had taken an active role in the crusade against the raiders.

Before Elia could respond, however, Seres interjected, "That would be lovely," and right on cue, a team of servants entered with breakfast.

The meal was a delicate affair of seasonal fruits and fine meats with freshly baked bread that was surprisingly sweet. It was nothing like what she would have eaten at home but it was still indescribably delicious, with an array of flavours that were undoubtedly enhanced by years of borderline starvation. Even so, it was still missing her mother's touch. Rowan burst into tears as she was eating.

"I'm sorry," she cried, "I didn't mean to, it's just…"

"We understand," Queen Elarin replied.

Then in an extremely unexpected gesture, Prince Rikta handed Rowan some of his bread. "You're supposed to share with people that are crying. That's what big sister Seres always said."

In response, Rowan started laughing. She was still crying amongst the laughter, but her emotions were slightly brighter thanks to Prince Rikta's earnest offering. "Thank you, Prince Rikta."

The rest of breakfast passed without further incident, but Rowan's emotions remained heightened for the duration. It wasn’t until later when she and Seres were playing and chatting in the Sunfall Apartments that she started to calm down. At one point, they managed to rope some of the guards into a board game when Avra knocked on the parlour door.

"Miss Rowan, your brother is here to see you."

Audiobook Teaser Part 2

Here is the second part of Jessica's audition where she performs an excerpt from Chapter 18: The Wind Rose I

Audiobook Teaser Part 1

The audiobook is currently being recorded by the amazing Jessica Threet, and I wanted to share (with her permission) the first part of her incredible audition with you all to help stir some interest and to show my own hype for her performance. 

Chapter 19: The Wind Rose II

On the sixth morning, Rowan sat against the aft railing and looked up to the sun over the port side of the ship. She still couldn't quite believe it wasn't all some cruel dream or a new form of torture that the Silent Sisters had devised. Even so, she could not deny how real the warm light felt or how it filled her with hope. There was too much detail for it to be a fabrication, too many things that she hadn't known before. She took solace in that thought.

"I'm gonna have so much that I need to do when we land," she mumbled to herself. No matter how she looked at it, she was spoiled for choice. It was almost overwhelming. Tehri, Tyris and her father were all waiting for her. What would they say when they saw here? Were they safe? Well? Rowan both feared and craved the answers as well as what was bound to happen after.

Not wanting to dwell on it any longer, she got up to see if Seres was awake, only to be greeted by Ashlin and Alena.

"Good morning, Rowan," said Ashlin with a friendly smile.

"Good morning?" Rowan responded, somewhat confused. She wasn't expecting them to just approach her after what she had said yesterday.

"Don't be like that. We just wanted to talk to you and maybe offer an invitation."

Rowan responded again with the same note of confusion. "You want to do what?"

"Talk, silly," laughed Ashlin. "Is it really so surprising?"

"Yes? I did just say how I was going to kill your father when we spoke yesterday."

"And you have every reason to. If what you and Lord Ædarik have said about him is true, he very much deserves it. Furthermore, my business is not my father's, and his is certainly not mine."

Rowan was not expecting that answer and wasn't sure how she was supposed to respond.

"I think you might have spooked her," Alena opined.

"I'm fine. Lady Ashlin just caught me a little off guard."

Ashlin smiled warmly at her. "Just Ashlin is fine. I wouldn't feel right holding my title over you after everything you've been through."

Another unexpected response. "Thanks," Rowan smiled back awkwardly. "Was there anything in particular that you wanted to talk about?" she asked.

"Well," Alena answered, "did you know that the ship has a cabin dedicated to washing? They call it a rain room."

"I think Seres mentioned something like that," Rowan responded, recalling the tour she had been given the day before.

"Well, we were about to make use of it and were wondering if you wanted to join us," Alena explained before adding, "It beats a washcloth any day."

Not sure how else to respond, Rowan asked, "Why?"

"Because you deserve something nice for a change," Ashlin answered.

"The captain has made sure that everyone from the caves has had a chance to use the rain room at least once if they so desire," Alena added.

"We invited Seres as well if that makes you feel better. She accepted right away."

"I guess I can't exactly refuse in that case," Rowan sighed.

"Of course, you can. It's an offer, not a request or a demand. If you want, you could go at a different time without us or not at all."

"Well, in that case, I want to accept."

"Excellent!" Ashlin exclaimed loudly. "I would offer you some clothes as well, but I don't think I have anything that would fit you."

"Me neither."

Looking at the two girls before her, Rowan didn't doubt them. Ashlin was at least half a foot taller than she was and had a completely different, even if still slender, build. Alena on the other hand was far too short, perhaps even shorter than Seres. She also had notably fuller hips than Rowan.

"I think I can manage with what I've got for now," responded Rowan with an awkward smile. "Should we be going now or?"

Instead of answering with words, they stepped forwards and linked arms with Rowan before taking her below decks to the rain room. They found Seres waiting in the changing room, already naked except for the towel that she had wrapped around her. Not wanting to waste any time, Ashlin and Alena promptly started stripping Rowan down before helping each other out of their notably more fiddly dresses.

Alena went pale at the sight of Rowan's scarred body. At first, it was just the scars around her arms: superficial cuts for the most part, as well as a pair of faded burns on her wrists, and the subtle code on her forearms. Next was her abdomen and the telltale signs of where the raider had stabbed her five years prior. Her legs were much the same as her arms, except for the more regular cuts on her hip that she had carved to anchor herself to the present. What truly shocked Alena, and Ashlin for that matter, was the terrible brand on her back, interlaced with the pale scars from countless lashings.

"What happened down there?" asked Alena.

"What do you mean?" Rowan asked back, not quite sure what Alena was referring to.

"The scars. Your back!"

"Oh. That. Well..."

"It was a ritual to ensure our will would become theirs if they ever broke us," Seres answered. "There are also elements to make us more receptive to torture but also less likely to die."

"That's awful!"

"It looks almost like someone chained the Eyes of the Goddess," muttered Ashlin quietly.

"Can you please stop staring?" pleaded Rowan.

"Sorry, it's just…" Instead of finishing her sentence, Alena hugged Rowan gently. Rowan felt Alena's soft body press against her bony figure. In a moment quite unlike, yet remarkably similar to, the time she and Kiriin shared their first kiss, Rowan felt her Gift invigorate. Then everyone started blushing for a reason only Seres could fathom.

"This is all very touching," Seres interrupted before things started to get a bit awkward, "but don't you think we should continue this inside? It's a bit too chilly to be standing around naked when a nice warm shower awaits."

Rowan jumped away from Alena with an awkward laugh and a face as red as her hair. Meanwhile, Ashlin responded to Seres while fanning her face. "Yes, let's," she said.

*****

The rain room wasn't quite what Rowan expected, even from Seres referring to it as a shower. It was a square cabin with a wall lined with knobs and crystals. Apart from that, it was rather unassuming. Then Ashlin started to move about the crystals and turn the knobs. In seconds, it literally started raining. Rowan couldn't believe it. There was actually rain indoors on a perfectly clear day. She was no stranger to plumbing, but this was a marvel beyond comparison. Everyone else, however, was acting like it was completely mundane.

Seres laughed as Rowan opened and closed her mouth in amazement while Ashlin turned to Alena. "You know, I think that face just made my day," she announced brightly.

"I'm sure it did," Alena teased. "But do you know what will make my day?"

"What?"

As her answer, Alena turned one of the knobs and the gentle shower became a torrential downpour, soaking everyone to the bone. The three unsuspecting girls screamed in response before letting loose silvery peals of laughter, much to the concern of the seaman who had been assigned to watch over Seres from the shadows.

After only a couple of minutes, they set the downpour back to its original intensity and started lathering each other up in soap. All the while, Ashlin and Alena engaged Rowan and Seres in casual conversation, being careful not to overwhelm either of them. As such, they avoided going into much detail on the state of Llen Fær, not least because neither of them were experts on Midiran politics.

After the shower, Ashlin and Alena kept their promise and brushed Rowan and Seres' hair. All in all, it was the best experience she had had in years and it gave her the strength to face what was coming next.

*****

Later that afternoon, Rowan went looking for Amran. She had to make sure that he was okay, but she had been putting it off after learning about his condition from Seres. She was scared to see the truth of it all. Unlike everyone else, he was being kept in a cabin as opposed to a curtained-off section of the hold. After the ship's medic gave her clearance, she stepped inside.

The cabin was barren for the most part, housing only a bed and some medical supplies. Amran was lying down in the bed which, after years of seeing his default position being a cross-legged lotus for meditation, just seemed weird. His left leg was suspended in the air and wrapped in a cloth covering interlaced with crystals. He also looked extremely fed up, which is to say he had a slightly disgruntled expression accented by a poignant frown.

"Hello?" said Rowan, announcing herself as she walked in.

Amran responded with a muted dryness. "I see you're finally awake. Nice of you to stop by."

"I actually woke up yesterday."

"Congratulations."

"You dinnae need to sound quite so bitter."

"My apologies, but you would not believe how vexing it is to be unable to move for so long."

"Believe me, I can. Not to mention, I've seen you stay completely still for hours at a time, only stopping because the wardens made you."

"That was always a choice and never without purpose. This is just waiting around with a crippled ankle being kept in stasis with the vain hope that there is something salvageable. I am no fool, Rowan. I know my foot is lost and I am content with that sacrifice. What I am not content with is waiting for it to happen."

"I don't think I've ever heard you be quite so expressive for such a long and continuous stream of words," Rowan remarked.

"Consider yourself lucky."

"Wow. Deadpan snark is one thing, but I didn't know you could bite as well."

"A certain Ardent must be rubbing off on me. That's a droll idea, a Stoic with the tongue of an Ardent."

Rowan rolled her eyes at that before going into an idea she had just had. "Well, if you are so bored, perhaps a certain Ardent can disrupt the monotony of your day with some games. I'm sure the medic will approve of it."

"That isn't actually a terrible idea. Maybe with you around we can return to a proper Ardent/Stoic equilibrium and I can stop being so expressive."

"I'm pretty sure that's not a thing."

"Unfortunately."

*****

Following her reunion with Amran, she kept true to her promise of breaking up his day with some simple games. They were nothing major and could all be played on pen and paper. She also spent much of her time with Seres, who was becoming increasingly more anxious about finally returning home, and a couple more of the former prisoners, namely Maro.

In a turn of events that Rowan hadn't expected, she also started spending a fair bit of time talking with Ædarik, Ashlin, and Alena, along with Davra and Deilin to a lesser extent. At first, she wasn't sure what to think about it, but she certainly wasn't complaining. The fact that they were inclusive of Seres certainly helped. She also couldn't deny that attraction played a large part.

After all, Ashlin and Alena were both extremely attractive and Ædarik was no slouch either. There was also Davra who was also very beautiful, though in a mature and sultry fashion. Deilin also had her own charm and a dark, silky voice that would make Rowan swoon if she sounded more confident, even if she was a bit too tall for Rowan's tastes.

Last of all, with the exception of tending to necessities, Rowan spent the rest of the trip regaining her strength as well as climbing and swinging from the rigging, much to the amusement of the crew. On the tenth day, Rowan climbed the crow's nest just in time for the lookout to point out the city of Midiris in the distance. It was only a tiny speck on the horizon, but they were almost "home".

With glorious exultation, she shouted out to the deck below. "Port on the horizon!" Then taking hold of a rope, she leapt down with a giant smile on her face.

Chapter 18: The Wind Rose I

The sun was low in the sky when The Wind Rose raised its anchor. Everyone was on board and they had been given as much room as Dralik could spare. Admittedly, that wasn't much as his hold was filled with goods and food for the voyage.

The crew was remarkably quiet as they set sail. Ædarik hadn't expected it with how boisterous Captain Dralik had been the night before, but he appreciated it, especially as everyone else was still sleeping. Ædarik, however, was leaning on the portside railings, yawning heavily.

He hadn't slept well and Dralik had insisted on buying everyone a drink, even the former prisoners, which didn't help. So instead, he leaned there watching land drift past. It was an eerie sight. The entirety of the day in the small port he had been blind to the devastation the earthquake had caused. He saw it now. A sizable portion of the town was damaged with some of it in ruins, crushed by falling rocks.

The further out they went, Ædarik also saw evidence of several wrecked ships. After each one, the sailors looked out to sea and saluted before bringing in their fists towards their hearts. It was a gesture that Ædarik had never seen before, but it didn't take a genius to understand its significance. Another aspect of these sailors that he hadn't expected. It still wasn't enough to help with the uneasiness he was feeling about everything.

*****

On the first day, Seres woke up just past noon. It was a strange feeling. After five years of being a prisoner, she was finally going home. She wasn’t sure if she should be excited or relieved. Fortunately, she wasn’t overly anxious, unlike many of the others; they still hadn’t accepted that they were free.

If it hadn’t been for Amran she might have been, but he had assured her that the captain and the lord and ladies in their company were genuine. She would still have preferred it if Rowan was more cognisant of the situation, but she had been asleep for almost the entire time. Seres wasn’t even sure if Rowan was aware that they were on a ship. There was little she could do about it though. Rowan had drained herself completely during the escape and then some.

As the day continued, the sailors started getting more and more jovial, but it never got to the point of them being rowdy. Even when they started drinking, they acted with remarkable sobriety which was a stark contrast to how they had been yesterday when the captain treated everyone to a drink regardless of age. What surprised Seres even more was that the captain, who looked more like a pirate than even the best artistic depictions, didn’t drink at all. From the way he declined a mug of ale at dinner, it seemed like it was contrary to his normal behaviour.

The crew and the captain weren’t the only people who were quiet on the first day. Everyone kept to themselves, almost depressingly so. She was no Empath, but she didn’t need to be to feel the oppressive weight of apprehension. She hated it, but she also didn’t know how to deal with it. Before, she had always been bright and cheerful, talking to everyone, but five years in captivity had locked that away and she was yet to find it. She may have been free, but her nature was not.

The next two days passed much like the first. Rowan still slept, having only woken up a few times to eat and relieve herself. Amran was meditating, though somewhat awkwardly with the rocking of the ship and everyone else remained quiet. Seres had to do something before she went insane.

With little to do and no one willing to talk, she wandered the ship, making sure to keep out of the way of the sailors. It was a large ship, much larger than the ships that had taken them to the caves and notably less slender.

It also glowed with the soft light of Resonance, more so than was normal for a ship. Seres had only ever seen this kind of Resonance a couple of times during naval parades and that had been on the Midiran Navy Flagships. She followed the Resonance to its most concentrated point, the figurehead. Before her was the majestic and practically naked figure of a Tæran woman decorated with crystals.

“She’s a real beauty, isn’t she?”

Seres jumped as a deep resonant voice spoke behind her. She turned to see the hulking form of the captain with his own Resonant glow. Even though he was on the small side if you compared him to an Al’duur, he was a giant amongst humana and he absolutely dwarfed Seres. Her ears drooped unconsciously at the sight of him; it was difficult not to be intimidated by him.

“Excuse me?” Seres responded.

“The figurehead. I know you can see the Resonance from her,” Dralik boomed quietly.

“I’m not sure what you mean,” Seres lied.

“You can do better than that, lass. I may not be the smartest man, but even I know what gift lies in the Soul.”

“That isn’t exactly difficult to find out.”

“I did just say that I’m not a smart man.”

Seres wasn’t sure how to respond to that. She looked at him quizzically.” Who are you?”

Dralik responded at a volume that could only be equated to that of a stage whisper. “I’m just a simple vice admiral enjoying his retirement, Your Highness.”

The sailors didn’t react, but Ædarik and his friends who had been talking on deck certainly did. So did Seres. “How did you…” she stammered.

“I’d recognise you anywhere, even all grown up as you are. You probably don’t remember me so let me introduce myself again. I am Captain Dralik Vasra-Kaan, former Vice Admiral of the Midiran Royal Navy Vanguard.

“My family has served the crown for generations and it was I, under the command of your sister, who led the charge against the raiders that plagued our lands. We’ve been looking for you ever since. I never believed that I, out of the seven that were searching, would be the one to find you.”

Seres hadn’t recognised the name ‘Dralik’, but she did recognise his last name. The captain of her guard when she had been attacked had the name Vasra-Kaan. “Is that why your ship has a Naval Resonance Array?” she asked, somewhat awe-struck.

“It is indeed. The crown called it a retirement gift.”

“Are we safe?”

“Every man and woman on this ship is a veteran and the hull has been reinforced with its own Resonance Array in addition to the Mobility Array in the figurehead. We will ensure your safety and that of the others to the best of our ability and then some.”

“Thank you.”

Seres excused herself after that and retreated below decks. She had a lot of things to process.

*****

“How did you not know she was a princess?” Davra shouted at Ædarik.

“I thought there was something familiar about her name, but it isn’t like I’d ever seen her before,” he responded.

“Did they really just walk into that village after the earthquake?” asked Alena with a hint of doubt.

“I assure you that they did.”

“How can you be so certain?”

“They told me so.”

Not convinced, Alena looked around at the others. “I think he’s hiding something. Don’t you agree, ladies?”

All three of them nodded.

“I’m not lying!” He didn’t want to reveal the truth about Lord Feilan with Ashlin right there.

Unfortunately, it was Ashlin that continued to prod him. “Are we so untrustworthy?” she sniffled.

“No, no, no, no. It’s just…”

“Just what?”

“They were being kept prisoner. You heard the rumours when the princess disappeared? Well, there was some truth to them.”

All four of his companions gave him a flat look that said, “What?”

The floodgates opened. “There were these caves that they were being held in. I don’t know why but Lord Feilan had something to do with it, he was taking young girls from there and doing whatever he wanted to them before sending them back. That’s how I found out about this whole thing. During the party, I accidentally discovered him with one of these girls. I couldn’t stop him, but I did follow the men back to the caves and I saved the girl. She’s here. The really young looking one.

“After that, I got captured, but the man in charge treated me with respect. Then the earthquake happened and a rock hit me in the head. I collapsed but then Rowan, the girl with crimson hair, and the Ferran boy saved me.” He continued to describe the events as he remembered them.

Davra took it all face on; Deilin excused herself at the mention of what Lord Feilan had done, her face dark with horror; Alena went white as a sheet, but remained; Ashlin was throwing up over the railings by the end of it.

“How could a man like that live with himself?” asked Alena when Ædarik finished.

“I don’t know,” Ædarik admitted.

“I’m more concerned with how he was able to act like there was nothing wrong,” Davra scowled.

“I promise I didn’t know,” cried Ashlin, her face looking slightly green. “Mother never said a thing.”

“You don’t think she was in on it do you?” pondered Davra.

“Impossible!” Ashlin objected. “Mother has a heart of gold.”

“It could be an act, just like with your father.”

“Stop right there, Davra,” Ædarik interjected, “We don’t know that, and forcing it is just cruel on Ashlin. She’s innocent here.”

Davra bowed her head. “Sorry,” she apologised.

“What now?” asked Alena after a moment of silence.

“We take them to Midiris and then we go home. There isn’t much else we can do other than report this to the military and the Royal Bureau of Information.”

“What if…”

“This isn’t the time for conspiracy theories, Davra.”

“But…”

“I’m sure that Queen Elarin of Llen Fær and the Midiran Royal Court will be investigating as well.”

“You have a point.”

After that, Ashlin looked up. “Can we talk about something else, please?”

“Sure thing,” responded Alena, “I’ll go get Deilin and we can talk Arik’s ears off about dresses or something.”

Ædarik groaned slightly at the prospect, but he agreed that a change of conversation was appropriate. He smiled warmly at Ashlin and they spent the rest of the day talking about inane things.

*****

On the fifth day of travel, they entered the Straights of Fire and Rowan woke up. She was finally lucid. Her body ached all over and she could barely remember a thing following their escape. She was not, however, hungry. Seres had made sure to wake her up occasionally so that she could eat. It was a strange feeling, being properly satiated for the first time in years. It would still take time to reverse the damage that had been done to her weight, but it was a start.

She rolled off of the cot in the curtained-off quarters they had been provided with. Before she could find her feet, the floor rolled beneath her and she fell like a crashing wave. As Rowan struggled to her feet, unable to find her balance, a Ferran girl peeked inside.

"Seres, is that you?" asked Rowan.

"Ah, no…" the girl responded timidly.

Now seeing a tawny-haired girl that she didn't recognise, Rowan immediately guarded herself. "Who are you then?"

"Alena. I'm with Arik. Please don't hurt me. " The girl was terrified by the sudden show of aggression.

"Arik?" muttered Rowan quietly to herself in a somewhat confused tone. "Oh! The lord who thought himself a hero." Feeling slightly appeased by that realisation, Rowan lowered her guard, but she didn't drop it completely.

"Should I leave? I just heard a loud noise as I was passing by and wanted to make sure you were okay but I can go if you want me to." Alena was speaking very quickly as she did her best to not seem threatening.

The response came with a predatory note that sent a shiver down Alena's tail. "You don't need to do that. Not yet at least."

"Are you sure?" Alena replied hesitantly.

"I just need to make sure you aren't with them first."

"Who?"

"The people who enslaved us. If you were, I'd have to kill you."

Alena went pale. Half because of the threat and half because of the implication. "By the Goddess, no!" she exclaimed. "I couldn't. Even thinking of what must have happened to you all down there makes me sick and angry and riddled with despair."

Rowan took a sigh of relief; Alena sounded genuine. "Then I'm sorry for scaring you. Cannae be too careful. Not yet, at least. Is there a bucket nearby?"

Not expecting the last sentence, Alena fumbled around in an attempt to fulfil the request. When she eventually found a bucket, Rowan promptly threw up inside it.

"Wow. It feels like forever since I've had enough in my stomach to throw up. Thanks for the bucket."

"No problem," responded Alena, slightly unnerved by Rowan's sudden change in mood. "Are you okay?"

"Just a little vertigo," Rowan smiled, "The ground feels like an Alyren raindrop."

"That's probably because we're on a ship to Midiris."

"Oh right. I think I remember Seres saying something about that. Or was it Amran? How long has it been?"

"Five days. Should I find Seres? We haven't spoken but I know what she looks like. You're Rowan, correct?"

"I am and you don't need to do that. I should probably be up and moving."

"In which case, I have something that might help with the nausea while you get used to the swaying of the ship."

"You do?"

In response, Alena pulled back her sleeves to reveal a pair of bands on her wrists. "These help a lot. I've got some spares so let me just go get them."

Alena shuffled out of the 'room' with her ears perked up and her tail swishing behind her. Rowan's heart fluttered at the sight. "Dammit Rowan!" she chastised herself, "This is not the time to be getting the hots for a complete stranger."

Alena returned after only five minutes and presented Rowan with a pair of bands, each with a glass bead on the inside. "The bead goes here," Alena explained, pointing at her own wrist. "The pressure helps for some reason."

"Thank you," responded Rowan quietly. She was blushing softly as she put the bands on. Kindness really was attractive and Alena had a cute smile. In an attempt to hide her blush, Rowan slapped her cheeks, making Alena jump. "Right! Time to get moving."

It took a while for Rowan to find her balance. This was, after all, her first time being out at sea while fully conscious. Alena kept an eye on her to make sure that she didn't fall. After twenty or so minutes of walking around the hold, Rowan was doing rather well. Then something clattered behind her. She turned to see what happened when someone barrelled into her. Rowan looked down to see Seres snivelling into her shirt.

"Um, hello, Seres."

"You're awake!" Seres cried, "Like really awake."

"I really am," Rowan laughed.

"The medic said you just needed rest, but I was scared you pushed yourself too hard."

"I'm just going to excuse myself," Alena interrupted awkwardly.

"Sorry, Alena," Rowan apologised, "Seres is always like this when I've been gone for a while."

"I am not!" Seres protested.

"Still, I've been away from my friends for too long. I was only going to get a book when you fell and then I got somewhat distracted making sure you were okay."

"Okay then," Rowan responded. "Tell Arik I need to speak to him later."

"Will do."

Alena retreated back to her friends, hopping over some apples that Seres had dropped. "She's adorable, isn't she?" Rowan asked Seres.

"I'm not sure what you mean."

"You're hopeless," laughed Rowan.

"Well excuse me," Seres huffed.

"I'm glad you're safe. I think you've started gaining weight."

"Rude!"

The two girls laughed at that.

"Is Amran okay?" Rowan asked after a moment, remembering the injuries he has sustained in the escape.

"Not good. His ankle was completely crushed and he isn't healing as fast as you. The medic said that he might lose the foot."

Rowan immediately felt guilty. If she hadn't gone after Lord Fein, Amran wouldn't have been injured. It started to weigh in on her and her surroundings.

She was snapped out of it when Seres started squirming. "Sorry," she apologised.

"Don't be so hard on yourself, Rowan," Seres replied when the pressure eased up. "Amran doesn't blame you and neither should you. Now let's get you something to eat and then I'll show you around the ship. The captain is a retired vice-admiral from the Midiran Navy. I think you'll like him."

"We'll see."

After that, the girls had a lunch of apples, cheese, ham, bread, and hot butter. It took a long time for Rowan to finish; she had to eat slowly so that she didn't strain her stomach. It was also delicious. In comparison to the years of trite food they had been given in the caves, the simple lunch that they ate now was gourmet cuisine.

Rowan wanted to wolf it down, but she also wanted to savour it for an eternity. The fear of throwing up again convinced her to show restraint. When she was finally finished and the meal had been given the chance to settle, Seres gave her a tour of the ship. By the end of it, she was treated to her first look at the sun as a truly free woman. It was breathtaking.

Her gawking was soon interrupted by a towering man with ruddy hair and an elaborately braided beard. "You must be Rowan," he boomed. "Captain Dralik at your service."

"Um, hello," she replied at what should have been a normal volume, yet compared to Dralik, it was a whisper.

"You can do better than that, lass. Her Highness here tells me that you were a hero down in those caves."

Rowan squirmed. "I wasn't that much of a hero."

"Tell that to the girl who was saved from five years of unimaginable torment. You have my gratitude."

Rowan was surprised at how much Seres had told him. "Um, thank you. I mean, you're welcome. No, thank you still works."

Dralik laughed as Rowan stumbled over her words. "You're an interesting one, lass, the complete opposite of my daughter."

"You have a daughter?" Seres interjected.

"Aye. My replacement back home."

"In the navy?"

"That's right. She's the second youngest vice-admiral currently in service. I'm so proud." The rambunctious captain beamed as he sung his daughter's praises.

"Um, Captain Dralik?" Rowan interrupted, having realised a perfect opportunity.

"Yes?"

"When did you retire?"

"Did Seres not mention it?"

"I forgot."

"Well, I retired four years ago. Right after the final blow to the raiders that plagued Llen Fær."

"Then do you know my brother, Tyris Naliir? He would have been a junior captain back then."

"Naliir? Yes, I believe I do. He was one of the first volunteers in the crusade against the raiders. I was in a few joint operations with his squadron."

"Is he alive?"

"He was last time I checked. He might even be a rear admiral now."

"Thank the Goddess."

"You'll be able to thank Her double in another five or so days when we arrive in Midiris."

"I will, thank you." Rowan beamed at him, aided by the light of hope.

Dralik nodded and took his leave. They were going home.

*****

Later that evening, Rowan went looking for Ædarik. She found him talking with his friends below deck. Not wanting to disturb them, she waited for a natural break in conversation when the one with golden hair and a bodacious figure noticed her. "Well, don't just stand there," she beckoned with a voice like velvet, drawing everyone's attention to Rowan.

"Rowan, sorry," said Ædarik, "I was going to come find you earlier, but…"

"It's fine," she responded. "I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"

"Nothing major," the girl with the voice like velvet replied. "We were just telling Ashlin here about life in Særis. The city that is. I'm Davra by the way."

"Rowan, but you already knew that, didn't you?"

"Arik did sort of announce it for all to hear," Alena laughed.

"Sorry about that," Ædarik apologised. "Seeing as they're here, I may as well introduce everyone. You've already met Alena and Davra just introduced herself. The person she pointed at with the magenta hair is Lady Ashlin Takiir. Next to her is Lady Deilin."

Rowan greeted each one and they responded in kind. "How much do they know?" she asked.

"As much as I," Ædarik admitted. "I tried to do what you requested without them knowing, but I couldn't just disappear."

"He was successful for the most part," Ashlin opined quietly. "We thought you were just refugees, but then we heard the captain talking to the princess."

"You know who she is?" Rowan asked, readying her mental guard.

"Only after the conversation she had with Captain Dralik," Alena clarified, "He isn't exactly quiet. Or subtle for that matter.”

Rowan breathed easy at that. “I think that’s an understatement,” she laughed. “Anyway, I wanted to thank you for doing what I asked and then some, Arik, even if it didn’t go quite how I expected.”

“I made a promise and I’m not one to forswear his oaths.”

Rowan smiled. “Good to know. Well, I think I’ve said what I need to so I’m going to take my leave.”

Before she could walk away, Ashlin, who had been fidgeting the entire time, spoke up. “Um, Rowan. Before you go, I wanted to apologise.”

“Why?” Rowan responded, somewhat confused.

“Because my father had something to do with those caves and all of you being kept prisoner,” Ashlin answered with her head bowed in shame.

“Did you know?”

“No, I swear I didn’t.”

“Then you have nothing to apologise for, assuming you don’t plan on aiding him in the future or getting in my way.”

“No, of course not. I wouldn’t dream of it.”

Rowan gave Ashlin and the others a serious look. “Good. Now you seem like a nice girl, so I’m gonna give you some forewarning.”

“Okay?” Ashlin replied hesitantly.

“Your father will die for what he has done. By my own hand if I can help it.”

Ashlin went pale at the declaration. So did everyone else. “I’m sorry?”

“I made an oath on the Goddess’ true name that I would destroy the operation that enslaved us and that I would see every lord involved with it dead,” Rowan explained. “They took everything from us, hoping we would break so that they could forge us into a weaponised force of Ardents and Stoics. I don’t know why, but no reason in all the realms of damnation could justify what they did.”

Everyone was speechless as Rowan stopped speaking. What could they say to that?

“I’m sorry we couldn’t have met under different circumstances,” Rowan sighed, “You all seem like nice people. The kind that I wouldn’t mind being friends with, but I kinda ruined any chances of that, didn’t I?” Before anyone could respond, she fled, leaving everyone in a state of bewilderment. Ashlin was especially shell-shocked.

“She was not what I expected,” Deilin stated after a moment of awkward silence.

“You can say that again,” Davra agreed.

“Don’t hold it against her,” Ædarik sighed, “She’s been through a lot.”

“We won’t,” Alena said quietly.

The others nodded and Ashlin looked up. “I’m going to make her eat her final words,” she declared. “I will do my best to be friends with her. Maybe then I can lessen the shame that I feel.”

“You shouldn’t try to be friends with someone because you feel obligated to, “ Davra chided.

“Then I’ll do it because I want to. Who’s with me?”

“I’m in,” Ædarik laughed.

After a moment of Ashlin looking around, Alena timidly raised her hand. “Me too,” she added.

“I’m not sure,” Deilin admitted after some consideration. “She might be a bit too intense for me. I won’t turn my nose or anything at her, but she scares me.”

“I also won’t be going out of my way to be friends with her, but if it happens naturally, I’ll be fine with it,” Davra responded. “Though I am somewhat curious as to what she’ll be like when she’s all cleaned up and in some nice clothing.”

Chapter 17: The Escape II

The small group sighed in relief as they stepped out into the soft blush of dawn. Freedom! They had finally done it. Gone were the hellborn caves that had come so close to breaking them. They had been destroyed by Illyria's wrath. The first part of Rowan's quest was complete. She hadn't saved everyone, far from it, but she had made a start and Lord Fein was dead. Rowan also took solace in knowing that Maro could have also led the others to freedom.

Out of the thirteen individuals in their group that had escaped, not one was without scars. They weren't all physical. In fact most of them weren't. Rather, the majority were of the mind and soul. Even the brands on their backs also branded their souls. Yet, despite knowing pain and suffering beyond their years, they hadn't given in.

Many would consider them to be poor broken souls.  Rowan might have been inclined to agree, but she saw the truth of things. She had seen people break in the caves. She had seen people shatter like glass, only to be forged into a grim and horrible weapon. Instead, she and the others found themselves on the other side of the gauntlet battered and cracking at the seams but still whole for the most part. She wasn't naïve enough to think that none of them had been changed by their experiences. For better or worse, they were not the same people they had been before they had been taken. Now they had to make a choice.

Rowan turned to the last member of their group, the only one who hadn't been a slave, Lord Ædarik. "You came here from the castle, right?" she asked.

"I did, but I really can't recommend taking you there," he replied.

"That's not what I'm asking. Castles tend to have settlements nearby to help support the family living there. Can you take us there?"

"I can do that."

"Good. Then you'll need to get us some food from the castle."

"How am I supposed to do that?"

"You got out didn't you?"

"Well yes."

"Then you can get back in. You might want to get some other supplies as well. Maybe a change of clothes."

"You're giving me a lot of opportunities to betray you," said Ædarik with a quizzical look.

"Do you want me to stab you?"

"No."

"Then don't say stupid things. You said you wanted to save us. I'm going to hold you to that. Now show us that not all lords are evil sadistic fucks and see this through to the end."

"You got me," he finally responded, having seen how serious Rowan was. "You have my word as a lord and on my family's oath to the king. With that said, call me Arik. What is your name?"

"Rowan."

*****

Their journey to the nearby village was long and slow. Amran couldn't walk and the others barely had enough energy to support him. Rowan was only managing to stay active through sheer force of will. Her body was drained and breathing was difficult, but they weren't home free yet.

The sun was nearing its peak by the time the village came into sight. Rowan almost collapsed from relief when they saw the villagers; Seres only just managed to catch her. They circled round to approach the village from the other side to avoid anyone from the castle seeing them. Arik suggested it as he wasn't sure how many guards were in the know.

When they came into view, a woman with a wicker basket saw them. "Som'n come quick," she exclaimed, "there's another group of them there children." Some other people came hurrying over in response to her call and someone went running into the village.

"I hope this is a good sign," muttered Seres quietly when she saw the congregation of men and women waiting for them.

"Me too," Rowan groaned.

Back amongst the villagers, a younger man looked at the woman that had called them over. "They be a lookin' like they be needin' some help, Geta," he said.

"Then go then there helpin’, lad," the woman responded. Shamefaced he took a few of the younger men and women to help the strange group. As they approached, Ædarik walked forwards to greet them.

"Salutations, sir. My name is Lord Ædarik and we are in need of your assistance."

The young man and his friends stepped forwards to start helping people along. "Right you is, yer lordship. You isn't the first such group to come here wandering."

"We aren't?" Ædarik responded, somewhat surprised.

"No, yer lordship. The other came a wanderin' in with the first beatin’ of the heart."

"The first beating of the heart?" Ædarik asked with a rather perplexed expression.

"Just as I said, yer lordship."

"What does that mean?" Ædarik said again, this time making sure to clarify his confusion.

"First light o'course," the man replied confidently, as if it was obvious.

Rowan's heart soared at the news. Another group had gotten out and from the timing, it was likely Maro and the others in her cell. "Are they safe?" she asked.

"That they is, young miss."

With the confirmation, she finally passed out.

"Is she there okay?" one of the young women asked.

"She needs a bed," Ædarik ordered, "and water."

After that, more people came to help and they were led into the village. It was in shambles. The earthquake had destroyed several buildings and Ædarik could see the bodies laid out to rest. Even so, the villagers faced the disaster with a smile and those that could worked together to get everything back in shape. Some were clearing away rubble, others were rebuilding and those in the fields were harvesting the damaged crop.

In the village, they were reunited with the other group who were for the most part, in remarkably better condition. As Rowan had suspected, the group had been led by Maro, a girl of around sixteen years of age. When they escaped, they had also found the young girl that Ædarik had saved. As far as he could tell, she hadn't stopped crying.

Ædarik decided to wait until nightfall to return to the castle. He could have left earlier and tried the front gate, but he didn't feel confident explaining why he was outside the castle walls. Instead he planned on using the same route that he and the slavers had taken to get outside.

"I swear I've gotten more active use out of my Gift in the past twenty four hours than I have in the rest of my life," he muttered to himself as he took to the shadows en route to the castle.

The secret entrance to the castle was extremely well hidden, even more so than a standard postern. On the flip side, it was also less well defended than the postern as it appeared to be largely forgotten. When Ædarik found it again, he could feel how thick the air was with dust and cobwebs. He was surprised that he didn't notice it the first time with how suffocating it felt.

Ædarik continued on through as the passage led him into the castle's wine cellar. In hindsight, it made him laugh a little bit. He remembered how in the stories he used to read, the secret passage always led to the wine cellar. The smell as he entered the room was dizzying. Countless broken bottles made the air thick with alcoholic fumes.

"This has got to be a liquid fortune," Ædarik winced as he stepped into a sticky red. Each time he moved through the cold cellar he was treated to a sickly squelching sound.

He hurried through, not wanting to linger lest he get himself drunk on the fumes. When he ascended to the ground floor of the keep, he saw the remnants of the carnage that the quake had wrought. Just small bits of broken ceramics that had been missed or damaged frames. Beyond that, the keep was surprisingly clean.

The servants must have been working overtime.

Ædarik's plan to get in and out without being seen soon came to an end as he stumbled into the path of a maid. "Oh my!" she exclaimed. "Lord Ædarik? Is that you?"

"Ah, yes. Sorry, I didn't mean to get in your way, Miss Tama?" He flubbed the last part, trying to remember the maid's name.

"That's correct, Lord Ædarik. Where have you been? The castle staff have been trying to find you all day."

Shit!

Ædarik had to improvise fast. "That's my bad," he apologised, "It seems that, in my drunken stupor, I wandered into one of Lord Feilan's wine cellars. I think I remember an earthquake and everything crashing down around me. Something must have hit me on the head because I don't remember much else." He pointed towards the crusted blood on his scalp to give some credence to his lie. It was hasty, but she seemed convinced.

"Oh no! We need to get you to the castle healer immediately."

"It's fine. I just need a bath."

"I'll have one prepared, but I must insist on you being seen by the healer. She can check in on you while you bathe."

"Very well. I will acquiesce. In return I would like you to do me a favour."

Her response came with a smile, "And what would that be, milord." Ædarik couldn't help but notice the not so subtle change in her tone.

"None of what you are probably thinking, sorry. I'd like you to prepare a hamper for me tomorrow morning."

Thankfully the maid didn't seem too disappointed at the rejection and was instead more curious about the actual request. "May I ask what for, milord?"

"The village, Miss Tama," Ædarik explained, "I imagine they were hit hard by the earthquake and a little charity never hurts. I will of course pay if need be."

Tama smiled more at that. "I'm sure a little bit of food won't be missed too much, milord. Now let's get you that bath."

With that said and done, she led him towards the East wing of the castle and into his quarters. Once there she started to draw the bath while making sure there was nothing else he needed or wanted.

He was soon soaking in hot water contemplating the events of the past day. He felt sick remembering what Lord Feilan had done. He had to wonder if Landras knew, if any of his family knew, and if they did, how could they be okay with it? There was also the strange situation with Lady Ashlin. Landras had never mentioned her being adopted.

Such thoughts continued for the duration of his soak. He had hoped they would be interrupted by the healer like Tama had suggested, but she decided to wait until he was finished bathing.

When she finally made an appearance, he was greeted by an older lady with grey hair kept in a neat bun and weirdly high cheekbones. Her uniform was notably different to that of the maids. From what Ædarik could tell, it was an older style of dress made from a sturdy grey wool and covered with a white apron. In her hands she held a small bag filled with medical implements.

"Greetings, Lord Ædarik. My name is Latria and I am the resident healer of this castle. Miss Tama informs me that you were injured during the earthquake. I can't say I'm surprised. It was particularly vicious and few people had the sense to get underneath a table. Now tell me, was it pride or inebriation that led to your injury?" She spoke with a clear and crisp tone that did well to hide how tired she was from dealing with idiotic lords and ladies all day.

"The latter, ma'am," Ædarik admitted, staying true to his earlier lie. "I found myself rather intoxicated and in a wine cellar when the earthquake hit. Something hit me in the head and I passed out." Once again, he motioned to where the rock had hit him on the head.

"Very well. Any signs of nausea, dizziness, memory loss…" She continued to list various symptoms as she examined him and concluded that he had a concussion. Then she went on to properly clean the injury and ensure it was free from any debris or shrapnel before stitching closed.

"Thank you, Miss Latria," said Ædarik when she announced that the job was done. "Before you go, I was hoping I could ask about Lady Ashlin. I was rather enchanted by her at the party and wanted to make sure she was well amongst other things."

"Apart from a sprained ankle and some bruises, she is well. Though she and your friends were rather distraught when you didn't show up for breakfast."

"Damn. I'll need to apologise when I see them."

"That would be wise."

"Thanks. I also wanted to ask about Lady Ashlin's rather unique appearance. Has she always had such magical hair?"

"Her hair has been that colour for as long as she has been in my care. Before then I cannot say for sure, but I would assume so."

"You mean you weren't the one to deliver her?"

"I was not, though I have been told that it was a traumatic delivery for Lady Larissa. I was actually hired just after Lady Ashlin was born due to the previous healer tragically passing away."

"That's awful!"

"It is indeed. Should your symptoms worsen or you need anything, send a servant right away."

"Will do. Thank you, Miss Latria."

After that, Latria bowed her head and took her leave. Once again, Ædarik was left to his own thoughts. Not wanting to face them, he retreated to his bed and collapsed from exhaustion.

*****

The next morning, Ædarik was woken by a loud knocking at his door. He groaned as the knocking got even louder. "I'm awake. Who is it?"

Instead of getting an answer in words, the door flew open and his friends came running in. "You're alive!" Deilin cried. "We thought something terrible had happened to you."

"Easy there, Deilin," Ædarik smiled. "It was just a small bump on the head."

"Are you really okay?" Alena asked.

"Sure he is," Davra answered in his place. "It'll take more than that to end the tale of Arik, heartthrob extraordinaire."

Ædarik blushed at that. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Sure you don't."

Not wanting that particular conversation to go any further, Ædarik quickly tried to change the subject. "Where's Landras?" he asked.

"Talking with his father," Deilin answered, still sniffling slightly.

Damn!

"Is something wrong?"

"I don't know."

"He said something about staying behind," Davra added.

"What if there's an earthquake?"

"We said the same thing," responded Alena.

Davra shook her head. "He seems to think it will be fine. We're leaving, however. Ashlin will be coming with us. We managed to convince Lord Feilan and Lady Larissa that it would be much safer in the capital and a learning experience for her." She winked at the last line.

"I agree, it will be a good experience for her. When are we leaving?"

"As soon as you're ready."

He was afraid Davra would say that. "I've got something I need to do first. I'll meet you at the docks."

"And what is that?" Alena asked.

Ædarik hesitated. "I thought that I would bring some food down to the villagers."

Alena's tail started to swish as the idea. "We can help with that."

"Honestly, I can do it myself."

"I insist."

"Fine!" He knew there would be no persuading Alena in any meaningful way.

His friends left after that to allow him to get dressed and back his things.

*****

Before long, Ædarik, Davra, Alena, Deilin, and Ashlin were walking out of the castle gates with two guards and a wagon full of food and supplies. It was significantly more than Ædarik had expected, but Ashlin had insisted that this was the bare minimum they could do.

Unfortunately, the soldiers were going to be a problem. When they were out of earshot from the castle, Ædarik approached them. "Gentlemen, I would like to offer each of you the deal of a lifetime."

Rightfully so, the two men gave him a cautious look. "Go on," one of them said.

"I am offering a full year's pay plus an additional gold sovereign for each of you and all you need to do is not report anything that does not directly threaten Lady Ashlin to Lord Feilan or Lady Larissa."

The two guards looked at each other and then in perfect sync said, "We can do that."

When they arrived at the village, they were quickly surrounded by a babble of farmers and other such workers. The five of them had their hands full when the Ferran girl that Rowan had been especially protective of walked over expectantly. Ædarik handed her a large bag of food and she scampered away.

"I'm going to look around and see if anyone needs help," Ædarik called out.

"Go ahead!" the four girls chorused.

With some food in hand, Ædarik went in the direction the Ferran girl had run off to. Finding himself at the door to one of the houses, he knocked. The woman that had called out to the others when they arrived opened the door. "Yer late," she said brusquely. "Get inside. They is waiting for ye."

With little choice other than to oblige, he stepped into the squat house. Inside he saw the Ferran girl, the Ferran boy, Maro, and Rowan who was still sleeping. Out of the three conscious people, it was the boy that spoke. "Seres tells me that you didn't come alone."

"There was no helping it," Ædarik apologised. "They insisted on joining me. I guarantee they won't be a danger. They may even be able to help get you out of here."

"What about the guards?" Maro asked.

"I bribed them. As long as Lady Ashlin isn't in danger, they won't say a thing."

"That'll have to do, Amran," said the girl now identified as Seres. It was a strangely familiar name and not just because of its similarity to Særis, his home country.

Amran relented and looked at Ædarik again. "So how can your friends help us?" he asked.

"We're going back to the capital. I'm sure I can convince them to take you with us."

"Which capital?" Seres asked.

"Særis, of course," Ædarik responded as if it were obvious.

"Through what means?" asked Amran.

"By ship. Going through the Straights of Fire."

Seres brightened up at that. "You mean we'll be going past Midiris?"

"Yes?"

"If you take us there, I'll make sure you are rewarded."

"How?"

"That's not important," Amran interjected. "Can you do it?"

"I'll give it my all," Ædarik responded honestly.

"Good. Now go."

Nodding, Ædarik turned on his heel and left. Just before stepping outside, he noticed Seres shake Rowan awake.

"Well this is going to be a challenge," he muttered to himself as we walked on over to the others.

"Oh, you're back," Ashlin called to him. "We're almost done here."

"That's great!" Ædarik replied.

"You better not have been lazing around while we were doing all the hard work," Davra teased.

"Hardly. I actually found some people I think we can help."

"I thought that is what we were already doing?" Deilin asked.

"Even more so. Yesterday a group that suffered greatly from the earthquake arrived in the village. Some of them are barely fifteen and they need help that the village can't provide. I was thinking we could take them with us."

"More charity?"

"Why not? I'll cover the expenses. You just need to agree."

"I say we allow it," said Ashlin with a smile while Davra muttered something to herself immediately after.

"If you're paying, we can't exactly complain," responded Deilin.

"Sounds good to me," added Alena.

"I guess you have your answer," Davra conceded.

"Excellent. I'll let them know. I should probably look at hiring another wagon as well."

Within the hour, they were on their way to the nearby port town with twenty-nine adolescents and young adults. Ædarik spent the better part of the afternoon trying to haggle for a reasonable price. He was on his third failure when a passing Midiran captain took one look at Seres and immediately barged into the conversation, kicking the female captain he was trying to bargain with out of her chair.

"Get out here, you sea cow," the large captain shouted. "The lad here isnae gonna take an offer like that."

"Fuck you, Dralik!" the female captain shouted back.

"Shitting hell, Mari, and go shove a spyglass up yer pisser while yet at it."

The two of them threw expletives at each other for a good few minutes. Ædarik was beginning to think he should leave when the captain turned to face him. "Sorry about Mari, lad. She's a lovely lass once you get past the drinking and the foul mouth, but you cannae fault her for trying to take a lad such as yerself for all he's worth. Thing is thirty-four passengers that cannae help on deck is an expensive proposition."

"I can help," Ædarik interrupted defensively.

"Even if I believed that, the others cannae do shit. Now back to what I was saying before you interrupted me. I will offer you the voyage at a more than reasonable price. All you need to do is tell me that girl's name."

Ædarik turned to see who Dralik was pointing at when he saw a pair of auburn ears twitch. "That'd be Seres," he responded hesitantly after identifying her.

"In which case, I would like to offer you travel for no more than the cost of any additional food that will be required to accommodate the lot of ya."

Ædarik was flabbergasted by the offer. "That's beyond generous."

"That it is," the large captain bellowed. "People will be calling you a pirate with a deal like this."

"Well I'd be a fool to decline, but how can we trust you?"

“Because if I was the kind of person that would engage in less desirable trades so brazenly, I’d be sitting here with a knife in my kidneys, lad.”

“What time do we leave them?”

"First tide on the morrow. Load yerselves onto my ship, The Wind Rose. As you may have heard, my name's Dralik. If anyone causes you and yours any trouble in port, drop my name and they should back off."

Dralik then spat into his palm and proffered it towards Ædarik expectantly. Fearing he had to do the same, Ædarik decided to get it over and done with, spitting into his own palm and clasping the man's hand.

The next day, they set sail.

Chapter 16: The Escape I

Ædarik was face-first on the ground and seeing stars. The earth-shattering quake had brought the cave ceiling down around him and his escort. One of them was crushed from the waist down by a large boulder. The other went running for the hills and he was alone. He could feel the blood trickling down the back of his head.

“Fuck!” His head was still ringing. “Get up, Arik. You still have a job to do.”

The way back was closed off from the cave in. His only option was to go further in, maybe find a ‘warden’ to help him. He also needed to save at least a couple of people lest his mission be in vain.

I hope she’s okay.

He limped down the cave, feeling faint. Before long, he started to feel dizzy. That rock had hit him really hard. Thud! Once again, he had collapsed face-first onto the ground. Only difference was that he hadn’t even noticed it happening this time. The loving grip of consciousness let him pass into oblivion.

*****

“We need to go now!” Rowan shouted. She wasn’t going to wait around for another earthquake. With the exception of Seres and Amran, nobody got up. Some were crying. Others were shaking with fright. None of them looked ready for action. “What are you all waiting for? We have a chance to be free of this place. Take it!”

“But.”

“No buts. Do you want to die? Do you want to be slaves? No? Then get off yer damn asses before you get fucked sideways. And before any of you think we’re insane for trying, you’re probably right, but we would also be crazy if we stayed. We’ve also learned of a couple escape routes from a girl in another cell so it’s not even close to being impossible. This is your chance to say ‘fuck it’ and reclaim your lives.” Rowan’s time in the caves had done interesting things to her vocabulary.

She saw some people rouse. Feeling like her work was done, she grabbed Seres’ hand and ran. Amran followed closely behind.

Once they were outside of the cell, the three of them started making their way to the training chamber. It was the one landmark that everyone knew and from there, they would be able to trace the route that had been given to them by Maro. The girl had been through so much to memorise the different routes and Rowan wasn’t about to waste her suffering. Her story had reminded Rowan of one of the fates that had been suggested for Tehri back when they had been captured.

They ran onwards to their destination

Why couldn’t this have happened after breakfast?

Rowan could feel the hunger rising. She wouldn’t be able to channel her anger effectively without a meal in her.

It didn’t take long to find the first casualties on the other side. Some of the guards and wardens had been crushed or killed by falling rocks. Some had been killed by the sheer violence of the earthquake. One of them, however, gave Rowan pause. The guard had been thrown into one of the cell gates. He was frozen solid. Rowan remembered when Anri had nearly lost her hand to the heat sapping crystals. It made her feel sick. It was a twisted way to die, just like the entire operation that had engineered it.

Rowan armed herself from the corpses and handed Seres a knife so that she could defend herself if absolutely necessary. Amran refused. Even in the chaos and danger of the situation, he stayed true to his pacifist ways. Instead, he offered to scout ahead. Then, without a hint of fear, he walked forwards with serene determination. With each step, he slowly sped up until he was moving at a comfortable jog. Then he did something that truly surprised Rowan. Instead of vaulting or jumping over the first obstacle he came across, he stepped onto the cave wall and continued onwards as if nothing had changed. He was jogging upside down. Well, almost upside down.

“Since when could he do that?” Rowan exclaimed.

“Does it really matter?” Seres responded hesitantly. “We should hurry up already.”

The two girls followed Amran at a more measured pace. They weren’t alone; some of the people from their cell had caught up and they were being joined by others. Everyone was weak and afraid. They were all so thin. Some of them looked like they hadn’t eaten in days, as if they had been forgotten.

Rowan knew this was their last chance. There were few that would be able to handle being captured again if the escape failed. It was an all or nothing gambit. Even so, it granted them the smallest flicker of hope. Rowan felt it too. She let her hope Resonate with everyone. Everyone looked that little bit brighter and Rowan literally started to glow. It was a dim but comforting light that guided their way and banished away all the small cuts and bruises that they had acquired.

Seres smiled gently at Rowan. “We’re actually doing this, aren’t we?” she asked.

“Of course we are,” Rowan smiled back, “I made a promise after all.”

Then, as if to prove her wrong, Amran came running back, all the confidence he had before gone to the winds. “Quick! Turn back,” he shouted. “They’ve started the round up.”

“What? No, we can’t turn back,” Rowan responded. “If we don’t get to the training cavern, how are we supposed to find our way to Maro’s cell? Pretty much all of her routes are from there.”

“It’s too dangerous. They’re using their Awakened.”

“Shit!”

On hearing that, people started to falter. Rowan was still glowing, but she couldn’t bolster an emotion they were starting to lack.

“What do we do now?” Seres asked with a face full of worry and a quivering voice. She still clung to hope, but only barely.

“I don’t know,” Rowan admitted. “I doubt I can fight any of their Awakened one on one like this. Not whilst protecting all of you at least.”

“We should have stayed back,” one of the other prisoners cried.

“This is all your fault,” another shouted at Rowan.

“We have to go, Rowan, now! I can see the cracks. These people are starting to break. We can go to the classrooms. We may not have memorised that route as well, but it’s better than nothing.” Amran was already moving. He had made his verdict as both a Stoic and an Empath.

Rowan was forced to agree. Her priorities were getting Seres out. If other people could escape with them, it would be great, but she couldn’t let them endanger the mission. If they all broke, Rowan, Amran and Seres could end up in a sea of hostiles. She didn’t want that, not when they could be saved.

“If you still have your resolve, try and keep up,” she shouted. “If you cannae do that much, escaping is on you.” It was all that she could offer them. One last chance to those who still had the strength of will to run.

One of them turned to Rowan before she could leave with Seres, and gave her a grave look. “I will remain here and do my best to hold them back; give you a head start and everything.”

“What? Why?” Rowan threw the words back at him in shock.

“I know I won’t be able to keep up with you. I’m too heavy set, even with the fuck-all food we’ve been getting. I also have the Gift of the Aegis, so it would be a better use of my talents.”

“Are you sure?” Rowan had to ask. She was going to leave him behind anyway, but she didn’t want to be weighed down by guilt.

“Completely. Seeing you glow gave me the courage to stand. This is the least I can do.”

“Good luck.” With those final words, Rowan ran at full pelt after Amran.

Seres clung desperately to Rowan’s hand as they ran. “I hope you have an alternative in mind,” she shouted to Amran at the top of her lungs. He was already a fair bit ahead, though he was no longer running on the walls.

“The classrooms,” he called back. “I think I remember Maro mentioning something about the route to get to them.”

They ran through the long winding caves towards the classrooms. They had to backtrack almost completely to find a route they were comfortable with. It had taken them years to memorise the different routes, and even then, it was not an easy task. The caves were labyrinthine in nature and there was little in the way of notable landmarks. As such, they had very little to aid their memories of the route, barring the instructions that they had carved into their arms.

Rowan just hoped that they’d be able to find Maro’s cell as soon as possible. That way they’d be able to have her direct guidance rather than just relying on the instructions.

It took much longer than they had hoped to get to the classrooms. They made a couple of errors and the caves suffered several aftershocks. It was a nerve wracking experience, but it eventually came to a close. When it did, they all took several deep breaths. Amran needed to collect his thoughts and remember what Maro had said about the route. It took five arduous minutes for him to formulate a path forwards.

“This way,” he said. “I think.”

*****

The route took them down caves that none of them had ever been down before. Rowan felt lost and blind as they walked on at a hurried pace. They couldn’t run. Not when they were relying on hazy second-hand knowledge that they hadn’t committed to flesh. It was a strangely empty and quiet path that they took through the caves. That is until Seres noticed someone collapsed down one of the side paths. She pulled gently on Rowan’s hand to get her attention.

“Look over there,” she said quietly.

Rowan looked over and saw a strange looking man dressed in what she assumed were a noble’s garb. She didn’t recognise him. Granted, it wasn’t easy to get an idea of what he truly looked like other than crap when he was faced down on the ground.

Is this one of them? One of the Good Lords?

Rowan felt like she may have struck gold with the find. “Hold up, Amran. We’ve got a sighting here. Looks like a lord.”

“And you’re not suggesting we run?” he replied.

“He’s either dead or unconscious. Think it might be one of them?”

“Out here alone? Doubtful.”

“His escort might have run away when he collapsed,” Seres opined.

“No, Amran’s got a point,” Rowan disagreed. “He’d probably have at least one Ardent or Stoic in his escort if he was.”

“Should we leave him then?” Amran asked.

“No!” Seres objected loudly. “We can’t just leave him.”

“He’s dead weight, Seres. Maybe even literally.” Rowan was shaking her head. They couldn’t waste time here. She didn’t care that it was contrary to the fact that she had been the one to stop them. The chance to kill one of the good lords was worth it; a nobody was not.

“What if he knows the way out? If we make him lead us it will solve all of our problems,” Seres countered.

“That is a fair point,” Amran responded in acknowledgement.

“But…”

“It’s okay, Rowan. I can handle this.”

“You can?”

“Easily. I just shocked him with some cold and gave him a boost of energy.”

“Huh?” Those were indeed some words that came out of Amran’s mouth, but Rowan had no idea how to parse them and her expression showed it. Seres actually laughed when she saw it.

“I don’t see why it’s so difficult to grasp, Rowan. I’m sure Seres understands.”

“Of course,” Seres smiled smugly.

“That’s not helping!” Rowan complained.

“It’s simply a matter of anger and compassion. Well a lack of it. I always found it out that Stoics Resonate with compassion in such an external power. We tend to be much more close and insular with our abilities compared to Ardents.”

Rowan gave up trying to understand him. “Fine, just do it already.”

“Right away. From the looks of it, he’s alive, but he will need medical attention.” Amran turned him onto his back and did a reasonably thorough exam. Then he took hold of the lord’s wrist and did nothing?

The lord shuddered awake. His first few words were a jumbled mess. The only intelligible words that Rowan heard were, “Where is she?”

“Can we do anything for that?” Seres asked regarding the largely incoherent slurry the lord was speaking.

“Give it a few moments. He needs to collect himself.”

While they waited, a few of the people that had kept up started to complain. The three of them spent the time quelling their arguments. They weren’t so convinced that the lord would be anything close to a font of knowledge based on the state he was in.

“Where am I?” he finally said with some measure of cognisance. “Where is the girl?”

“You’re in a cave system where those of us that you see before you and many others have been kept prisoner,” Amran explained calmly before Rowan had the chance to respond. “Tell me, what do you know of this place? Why are you here? Are you working with the people that run this operation? Don’t bother lying. With the state you’re in, it will be blatantly obvious.”

“Work for who? I thought this place was just somewhere Lord Feilan kept the girls he preyed on locked up.”

“Lord Feilan?” Rowan interrupted. “That must be the man that Maro and the others were being taken to.”

“It seems likely.”

“Who are you people?”

“Prisoners. Slaves. Weapons. Take your pick,” Rowan remarked bitterly. “We’re also breaking out of this place. Now tell us who you are and why you are here?”

“My n-name is Arik. I mean Lord Ædarik of House Beltein. I was following some men who had a girl between them. They came from the castle. Where is she?”

“I don’t have a clue who you’re talking about.”

“Neither do I.”

“Or I.”

“Damn it. I hope she wasn’t inside when the earthquake happened. Prisoners you say? I was supposed to be the one rescuing you. So much for my attempt at heroics.”

“You were supposed to save us?” Rowan said sardonically with a look to match. “You came waltzing in here without knowing what this place was thinking you could save us?”

“I thought it would only be a few dozen people at most.”

“Do you at least know the way out?” Seres asked.

“I only got part way in before the guards found me. I don’t remember what happened between them and meeting the ‘lord’ who seemed to be in charge.”

“Fein,” Rowan snarled. “Well there goes that plan. Let’s get moving. Do you still have a handle on where we should be going, Amran?”

“Just.”

“What about him?” Seres asked, pointing at Lord Ædarik. “He might not have had any useful information, but he did come here to save us. Even if he did fail in the end.” She gave Rowan a pleading look with her large Ferran eyes. Her tail was still and her ears were drooping slightly.

“Don’t give me that look, Seres. I don’t need to be weighed down by guilt from leaving him here after he went and told us his idiotic plan.”

“He might also be useful once we get out of here,” Amran added begrudgingly.

“He’s your responsibility, Amran. I need to focus on keeping Seres safe.”

“Fine.”

*****

They marched onwards with their new addition being helped along with Amran. With each step, Rowan started to develop a nagging feeling of familiarity. She realised why almost too late.

“We don’t need to turn left here, do we Amran?” she whispered.

“No?” he responded at a more normal volume. “Why do you ask?”

“Lord Fein’s offices are just down there,” she stressed as quietly as she could manage.

Practically everyone realised the danger they were in. Lord Fein was almost guaranteed to have one or two Awakened individuals nearby.

“Do we split up?” Amran asked nervously.

The answer he got was much louder than he had expected.

“Guards! We’re over h…” Rowan stabbed the girl in the throat before she could finish alerting the enemy. She was crying when she withdrew the bloody knife. The damage had already been done.

“I’m so sorry,” she said quietly as she withdrew the knife, tears streaming down her face. The damage had been done, but Rowan couldn’t help but feel regret for the poor girl. She wasn’t to blame for not being strong enough. She wasn’t to blame for being a threat. She wasn’t to blame for reminding Rowan what she needed to do. “Amran. Please keep Seres safe for me. I have some unfinished business.”

Even the young Stoic failed to hide the grim trepidation he felt from those words. “Don’t do it, Rowan.” She was already gone, walking towards Lord Fein’s office. Before long, she was out of sight.

*****

Lord Fein’s office had seen better days. It looked like an incredibly violent storm had passed through, leaving absolutely nothing untouched. Gone was the organised decorum that the room had always tried to present. Now only ruin remained and it filled Rowan with a sense of catharsis. She had marched in as Fein was clambering to get everything organised again. It didn't take a genius to see how futile an endeavour it was to try single handedly.

Rowan cleared her throat to announce herself. Fein turned to look at her. Instead of his usual genteel self, Rowan saw fear. His face had been ruined by the quake and he was caked in blood and grime.

"It's good to see you, Lord Fein," she said darkly.

"Miss Rowan," he started.

"I told you this day would come. My shackles are broken and I will have my vengeance. Know this, Fein. Today marks the start of my crusade. You should feel honoured that I am killing you first. Fear not, it will be extremely painful."

"You don't need to do this. If you let me go, I'll tell you how to get out of here. I can even deactivate the scars on your back." Rowan could see the beads of sweat rolling down Lord Fein's ruined face.

"Are you an idiot? I invoked the true name of the Goddess in my oath of vengeance. Now that we are face to face, I cannot let you go." Rowan started to walk towards him, the tears from before still glistening softly.

His voice quivered in fear. "Be reasonable."

"If only you had extended us the same courtesy. You set out to forge a weapon and you succeeded. Take solace in that as I end you."

Rowan took the final step. She looked into Fein's eyes and drove the knife into his gut. It wasn't lethal. Not immediately at least. He had to suffer and Rowan was no stranger to pain. She pushed down on the handle and twisted it into his diaphragm. Fein clawed weakly at her wrist. It was clear what he wanted and Rowan was all too happy to oblige. She ripped the knife free. Fein cried out in agony, his voice a visceral scream. His breathing started to falter.

"You know, Lord Fein, you should consider yourself lucky that I'm not angry right now. If I was, my left hand would be gripping your frail little neck right now. Imagine your blood boiling as it rushed to your brain." Rowan's voice was dripping with venom as she drove the knife into his thigh, just nipping the femoral artery. It was done. Even if Fein got immediate medical attention, his death was all but assured.

With grim satisfaction, Rowan turned her back on Lord Fein. A second later, she went crashing against the wall. A giant fist had hit her square in the ribs. She felt several of them crack.

"Strange small girl. Stop acting wrong." It was the Al'duur; the giant of a man who carved the brand into her back.

"Back off or I’ll kill you as well," Rowan wheezed. She struggled back to her feet.

He towered over Rowan, his body and arms covered in thick hide, bony ridges and elaborate tattoos. "You not able to kill me even if you were three your size."

"I can try." She raised her knife into a forward facing guard. In the distance, she heard the rapid fall of feet on stone getting ever closer.

The Al'duur man blocked the only exit with his sheer size. He was a leviathan next to Rowan. She had to get past him. If it weren't for her ribs, she could have probably dove between his legs.

"You can do it."

"Rowan! I'll distract him," shouted Amran from behind the Al'duur as he leapt onto his back. The larger man's movements started to become sluggish as Amran clung to him.

"What are you doing here?" coughed Rowan, "You should be watching out for Seres."

"That's your job, you idiot," Amran said back through clenched teeth.

"You are idiot here," the giant interrupted as his tattooed arms started to bulge. He grabbed Amran's ankle in a vice-like grip,  ripped him off of his back and slammed him against the cave wall with a resounding crack.

The Al'duur had moved out of the exit. Rowan could leave Amran behind and run. Instead, her anger flared. Amran smiled, despite his mangled ankle. Rowan limped between him and the giant.

"Rowan, I need you to listen," whispered Amran, "Don't attack him. Instead pulse as much heat as you can into this wall. Then throw the knife on my mark."

He reached out and gently touched her ankle as she got ready to face their eminent foe. She didn't understand why she wanted him to heat up the wall, but she had little else in the way of options. The Al'duur just looked at them, confused.

After a few moments, Amran shouted, "Now, Rowan!" Then the wall started to fracture.

In anticipation, Rowan threw the knife at the giant's face as a twitch reaction. He managed to block in the nick of time, the knife glancing off one of the ridges on his arm. When he lowered the arm, there was a boom and the ceiling came crashing down on him.

Outside the room, Rowan was struggling to drag Amran to the others. "You were supposed to leave me in there, you idiot," he reprimanded her. "If I knew you were going to be this stupid I wouldn't have failed to give you any energy." He was not happy with the situation. Rowan had needlessly risked herself by saving him.

"I couldn't just let you die. I cannae sacrifice people like it's nothing," cried Rowan painfully.

"You've already sacrificed people so that you and Seres can escape. You made a promise."

"They can still be saved!"

"Don't lie to yourself."

"Some of them can be. I have to believe that. And each sacrifice still hurts. I couldnae handle it if I also had to sacrifice a friend."

"Damn it. I accepted that I was going to die if I needed to, Rowan. I even left the route to Maro's cell on the lord's sleeve."

"Well you didn't need to die."

*****

When they got to the others, Seres ran into Rowan's arms crying. "We need to get going," said Rowan as she hugged Seres back. "Someone help Amran." She was feeling extremely weak. The burst of anger had drained almost all of her energy reserves. It was like she hadn't eaten in a week. There was no way she could do another fight. Hopefully though, if everything went according to plan, they were home free. Rowan smiled at everyone.

They had lost many during the escape. Some had run away and others had stayed behind. There were still far more than Rowan could have hoped for, but it was far from enough and Maro’s cell had been empty.

Rowan lamented that she hadn’t saved more. She promised to herself that she would come back and save as many as she could while they walked the long road to freedom.

Still, there was light at the end of the tunnel.