Black Steel: A Tale of Fire and Mind

The quartet reached the main hall shortly after Mirabelle delivered the news. Brenton had insisted to be present in the meeting as the matter touched him personally, the sole reason why no one objected.

The second they walked in after the guards, all deliberations seized. Hines beckoned them closer and they went to the lowest sitting tiers so Brenton and Seraphina didn’t have to climb any stairs. “Thank you for joining us. These young men have some troubling, yet hopeful news for you.”

Seraphina barely contained the snort that built inside her. “Can we have some details? How can a manhunt be a secret?”

Hines motioned to the two messengers. Despite their youth, their posture was solid, no queasy glances around the room. They were seasoned, experienced. “The stage is yours, Quentin.”

Quentin bowed his head in respect and rose from his seat. Looking at the newcomers he started his account. “We were on our way here from Sabaria to report of a woman who’s so important a target that the Emperor’s offering a reward for her.”

“If there’s a bounty, how is it secret?”

“We asked bounty hunters and they’ve heard nothing. Only the imperials know.” Quentin answered. “We even posed us hunters ourselves, but still they didn’t tell us.” Seraphina noticed him fumbling in his satchel as he spoke. “Reaching Norfolk, the hivespeople informed us someone matching those features had passed through...”

Brenton cut the man off then. “What features? They were specific?”

“Medium height, slim and ripped, auburn, long hair, dark eyes, a scar on the left side of her face… But the main tell apparently is the badly hurt leg or evidence of an impossibly healed one.” Quentin listed while he obviously matched every point to Seraphina, minus the hair length. “Aha.” He took a piece of paper out of his satchel. “So, we showed them this poster we pickpocketed. See any resemblance?”

There was an accurate drawing of Seraphina on the paper Quentin held. An eerie silence filled the room as the councilmen let the four and Brenton process the news. Until Seraphina spoke. “I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting our graceful ruler, so I’ll guess he got my description from his soldiers. Rather obvious since we know he's an Aetheral, so I don’t see why everyone is so uncomfortable.”

“Let me explain then. Our spies tell of an entire squadron getting executed because you escaped. The Emperor thought you had assistance, so he had them all killed. Publicly in the Larcbust base.” He explained. “Every remaining soldier, whether bottom feeder or highest officer, is alert. Our job’s getting harder each passing day you’re not found.”

“It’ll affect your journey too. You can no longer count on being incognito.” Hines stated with a pitiful look. "Seraphina can’t enter cities and villages with established guilds, lest there are imperials around, the rest of you will need to make all replenishments and by no means can an imperial lay eyes on her, or you'll all be compromised."

"I already knew I need to hide away from everyone. My injury is more distinctive than any scar and can't possibly be covered." Seraphina stated with ease. "The fact that his imperial grace is so concerned with one person that he slayed even a small portion of his army is to our advantage, is it not?"

"It means that for the first time ever, he's scared that we have a chance.” Maxwell said with a nod, completing Seraphina’s trail of thought. “And if a centuries-old man suddenly fears us, we actually do have a chance."

“Don’t be rush. We can’t be sure of this claim. The Emperor is a vile, ruthless man. He could easily have slaughtered his men as an example that he doesn’t tolerate failure.” Barkley pointed out and in truth, none could object. “The consequences remain though. It’ll be far more dangerous for you.”

Seraphina felt Reggie sneak his hand in hers and squeeze, as if he thought the revelations somehow affected her. Some things he had yet to learn about her. “I apologize if I seem... cocky, but this isn't new. Maxwell and I have spent years in dicey situations. This may be more treacherous than usual, but still within our comfort zone.”

Hines stepped up then. “In the south that may be, but this is the north. You know little of it.”

“Good thing we’ll have a northerner with us then.” Vivienne chipped in. “Not to mention me. We’ll know of every threat before it comes.”

Since Vivienne didn’t mention her limitations, Seraphina didn’t either, but she couldn’t help thinking of them. When Vivienne was asleep or unable to read the area, the rest needed to carry their weight, stay alert. Once, she and Maxwell were all about vigilance, but the past cycle, with Vivienne by their side, they’d let off. Along with Reggie, they needed to redouble that effort.

Which made Seraphina think of a liability. “There’s a possibility Reggie’s compromised as well.” As she looked at him, his eyebrows shot up and he bit his lip before he uttered a word, waiting for her explanation. “Before I disclosed to him we could get resupplied in hives or towns the League has established guilds, we went to one of his old superiors, south from Talonpass.”

“Did he get a good look at you?” Maxwell asked, glaring at Reggie, who was trying hard to keep a straight face.

Even if she knew what he was thinking, she didn’t refrain from answering. “Everyone in his household. We stayed overnight.”

Murmurs broke out throughout the room. Councilors huddled up among themselves and whispered. Maxwell breathed hard next to one side of her and on the other Reggie maintained a hard frown at her.

Before she could chastise either of them, Zera spoke. It was a wonder she’d stayed quiet for so long. “We need an exact location and name, Seraphina. You know what needs to be done.”

Of course she knew. Had Reggie told her of Tom’s identity before they reached his fields, she would’ve altered their course for that reason. “I do. I can give you the location if you hand me a map.”

Their eyes forever locked on each other, Reggie provided the information. “It’s the farm of Thomas, son of Vane, former lieutenant of the eleventh battalion of the imperial army. It’s located a day’s ride away from Talonpass, to the south east.”

“The council should send our agents to take care of that matter and pray to the Elements that the tale hasn’t spread that far.” Zera solemnly suggested and there came nods from many councilors.

Even Seraphina could then notice the change she’d undergone, though she pinned all hopes of her reasons on her capture rather than meeting Reggie. Not only would the Seraphina that snuck into the Emperor’s army have no objection to what was required, but she would also offer to lead the taskforce to ensure the success. Yet, the accusatory gaze Reggie gave her and the disappointment painted across his face while he recited his friend’s information stirred doubt in her mind.

But it was not enough. Her people’s safety came before an imperial’s life. Always.

◊◊◊

Procedural details came next. The council provided a list of provisions, the company requested they have the horses they came in Embersummit with and after much deliberation, Reggie was told of the names of all hives between the mountain city and Briohall. No councilor, especially her uncle, trusted the man, but after Seraphina, Maxwell and Vivienne made their case, they unwillingly conceded and informed Reggie.

They were excused soon afterwards, so they could rest, even if it was still midday, and start on their journey as soon as possible. Though autumn was well under its way, the night air was still bearable and camping would be no problem. Yet.

The moment they put distance between themselves and all prying eyes, always at the ready to find discrepancies, Reggie walked ahead, leaving the twins and Vivienne behind. Seraphina didn’t need Vivienne’s gift to know what he was thinking. “You should go talk to him.”

“I’ll go at my own pace. I’m no one’s lapdog.” Seraphina replied frowning. His reaction had already affected her mood.

“True, but don’t you think you need to make small compromises? He needs some explanations.” Vivienne insisted, intensifying the scorcher’s snit.

“Plus, if we’re gonna put our lives in his hands and let him guide us, I’d rather you be on good terms.” Maxwell added, much to her surprise, and went inside.

"Go." Vivienne urged her and went to get inside. "He's already gotten the wrong idea."

Seraphina had expected that much. It was why she grew furious. The mere thought…

She trudged her way to Reggie’s room, willing her anger to subside, but had no success. She opened the door and found him pacing across the room, his hand on his chin, his amber eyes blazing. He didn’t even turn to look at her when she entered.

Being the woman she was, proud and with an ego as large as her bodycount, Seraphina didn’t address him either. She simply laid on his bed and closed her eyes waiting. It took longer than she would’ve wanted, but not by much.

Reggie huffed and knelt by her side. “They’re gonna kill him.” One nod confirmed his words. “He’s not a bad man. His only fault is his alliance.”

“It’s always like that. But it’s them or us, Reginald.” Seraphina noted and locked her arms behind her head.

Reggie sighed. “But his family, his staff. They’re innocent, Sera. Women, children, simple workers. You say you wish to protect the people, but how are you any different?”

So fast was her slap, he never got the chance to react and fell on his backside. “You have no idea how much it bothers me you assume that. Screw the League, but me personally? You honestly believe I would concur to such an atrocity?”

With a cheek as red as the shirt he was wearing, he looked up at her dumbfounded. “They saw you, us, too. To eliminate the threat of exposure, you’d have… Zera said you know what needs to happen. What else could it be?”

For the first time since she’d entered the room, she stared right into his eyes. “I’ve been in this since I was five. Of course I know what needs to happen. A carefully planned assassination, a cover up, lies. A series of actions we abhor, yet are required to perform. I've done several such deeds myself.”

“They’re loyal to the empire…” Reggie reminded her, as if she needed it.

Seraphina shook her head. “It won’t matter when they witness an imperial soldier marching into their farm, discuss with Thomas and then kill him suddenly, or something of the sort. The roamers will swoop in and lead the rest to safety. We’re used to deal in slander, trecheary.”

Reggie sat silently on the dirt and processed it all. “It’s not right.”

“Of course it’s not. Why else do you think I said you’re an idiot for taking us straight to an imperial’s home?” Though she never raised her voice, the flickering flames could easily show her dander. “Your action created ripples you didn’t anticipate, so don’t act all aggrieved when it was you who brought it upon them, just because you made an assumption. Now if you’ll excuse me…”

She turned on her side, facing away from him even though her leg ached, and closed her eyes. Until sleep took her, he never moved from the ground.

Neither Maxwell nor Vivienne slept that evening, both rather troubled by their soon to be travelling companions. He was worried about Reggie’s reaction to the news of his old lieutenant’s assassination and whether that and the reward were enough to make him switch sides again and deliver the trio straight to the empire.

She was concerned about Seraphina’s progress. Ever since they’d reunited, there had been a noticeable serenity and frankness in Seraphina, traits she’d hidden under the mask of a Shepherd early in her roamer days. Though she wouldn’t admit it yet, being away from her own people and the room Reggie had given her to just be, were behind her change. Vivienne worried their impending journey and whatever would happen between Seraphina and Reggie that evening risked Seraphina closing up again. Vivienne knew that his thoughts, if expressed, would be an austere insult to the twins and anyone in the League, but the scorcher herself? Vivienne feared of the repercussions.

When the bells signaling it was dinner time started ringing, Maxwell and Vivienne untangled themselves and rose to proceed to the main hall. “Got any rest, Viv?”

She shook her head. “I’ve been trying to figure out how to deal with your sister if she shuts off.”

“You don’t add fuel to the fire. We let her be until she settles down. Then we use her inner decency to our advantage.” Maxwell shrugged nonchalantly. “What do we do with the imperial, though?”

“Don’t call him that, he’s with us now and he’ll stay on our side.” She reassured him tying up the backpack with her belongings. “Trust me.”

He came up behind her and slid his arms around her waist. “You, I trust. You know that.” A brief touch of his lips to her temple later, he took the sack. “Let me help with that.”

They went to the pavilion and found Brenton, Barkley and Mirabelle sitting at their once usual table. They approached and soon after a stern Seraphina and a guilt-filled Reggie, who straightened up when he saw the scorchers eye him closely, appeared as well. Mere moments after she let her crutch lie by her side, Raine came to sit at Seraphina’s feet with the slab of meat Zera had given her.

Vivienne didn’t dare look into Seraphina’s mind, wary more of her reaction than what she’d find, but she did check in with Reggie. She came upon nothing useful since he was still hung up over his friend’s fate. “You won’t find anything exciting, Vivienne. Don’t waste your time.”

She didn’t. She focused back on the task at hand. Brenton and Barkley informed them their horses and supplies were ready and gave them a notebook with detailed directions to Briohall, though they were also given verbally. In case of danger they were to burn it, so it wouldn’t fall in the wrong hands.

A few tear-stricken goodbyes later and last minute instructions, the grand doors of Embersummit closed behind the four riders and the wolf and they began their long journey under a clear, starless, autumn sky. The moonlight shone upon their path, still out in the open as they were.

After passing Sabaria in the distance, they were heading northwest, wishing to stay close to the empty Wasteland, where the chances of any threat were more limited. The empire didn’t delve close to the desert. It held no profit for them.

Reggie had been positioned on the edge line for a time after his initial training in Sabaria, guarding nothing at all in truth, until an order to pull back the soldiers had reached the outposts. The outposts had stayed firm to scare away any nomads, the only kind of people who approached the desert until the riders galloped by.

It proved quite useful to have an inside man in their company. Otherwise, upon seeing the well-preserved outposts, Vivienne and the twins would’ve needlessly altered their course, which would bring them closer to the imperials hunting down Seraphina. Even Maxwell admitted the man’s aid was worthy of praise. The other twin paid him no mind though.

The first few days went by without any trouble, but on the seventh day after their ride began, Vivienne caught whispers of a bounty hunter group close to them. Six people. Looking for Seraphina, surprisingly. For the first time the company was to work together to eliminate the threat.

Oh, how efficient they were.

They waited till the group made camp. Then Seraphina, from atop Nightlight, used the bow Reggie had crafted for her to dispatch the lone fellow who went away to relieve himself. He never got the chance. Vivienne made quick work of two scouts, creeping up behind one, stabbing him in the neck and threw her other dagger right to second’s head, just like Seraphina had taught her in Neverfall early on in her training.

With that done, for the remaining three, Seraphina chose one target and put an arrow through his knee incapacitating him, while the men, together with Vivienne charged at the other two. They easily defeated them thanks to the element of surprise, but once again Maxwell didn’t leave the battle unscathed. He got a cut over his brow from a rock the incapacitated hunter threw at him.

The bulky douser wiped the blood off his brow on the hunter’s shirt as he picked him up by its neck. They questioned him, with Vivienne keeping close watch on his thoughts. It turned out that an officer of the north had enlisted a bunch of bounty hunters to find Seraphina, trusting they would do a better job than his men. He was partly right.

They disposed of him as well and while discussing their further course, Vivienne informed the rest they’d need to change their path. The nearest outpost ahead of them was occupied by other hired goons.

“Damn it! I was already anxious about these parts.” Reggie exclaimed upon hearing the news.

“What’s with these parts?” Maxwell asked looking around warily.

“I assumed the outpost would be empty and we could camp there for the night…” Reggie answered, worry painted all over his face.

Seraphina gave a snort, which none addressed. “Typical. Always relies on what he thinks and not what he knows.”

“…the desolate land fans out south for miles and the vegetation between it and the hill I was telling you about is limited only to shrubs. We’ll have to either push through the night or camp at the hilltop without a fire so no one can see us. It’ll be a cold one. Freezing cold.” Reggie concluded sighing. “Your choice. What’s it going to be?”

“Let’s push on. The sooner we’re away from the mercs, the better.” Vivienne suggested first.

“True, but you need rest. You’ve exhausted yourself again.” Maxwell remarked the obvious. Her eyes were a little red and she kept rubbing her temples to shoo away the headache. No luck thus far.

“Rugged crags on one side, I see. Is the other side clear?” Seraphina asked and Reggie nodded. “Hmm, the hill’s easy to defend then. I say we camp.”

“What about you, Reggie?” Vivienne asked. He was her last resort. She was anything but comfortable sleeping close to possible threats, when they might need her inner detector.

“You look like crap. As much as I would like to keep going, I’ll agree with Maxwell and Seraphina.” He appeared apologetic as he spoke.

“Great last resort.” She thought to herself.

Three to one and they went with the majority. With a grunt, Vivienne led her horse after Reggie’s, who’d taken point most of the time already. It took them a good couple of hours to go around the large hill and climb to the top. Seeing them make camp, Raine scampered off on her own as she often did when they remained stationery.

They could light no fire in fear of getting detected, so all Vivienne could do to get warm was wrap her woolen blanket around herself as she lied down on the thankfully parched ground. She’d already turned her backpack into a makeshift pillow and she did a last sweep of the area before she lied down.

At a great distance, she could hear the whispers of the men in the outpost, everyone tired and unwilling to brave the night. It put her slightly more at ease. Other than the known group, Vivienne spotted another faction. It consisted of five people, four men and a woman. Nomads. Hardly a threat, but she still informed her company.

Though she’d rather have no one else around, she could sleep with only little worry.

◊◊◊

Vivienne was startled awake by the scent of burning flesh nearby. The sight she witnessed when she rose came out of the worst nightmare. Maxwell was in a hand to hand combat with two people, one of which, the woman, was on his back trying to snap his neck, his axe edged in a tree close to her.

Reggie was only then finishing off his opponent. He could hardly use his left arm and his jacket was crimson red on the shoulder. Seeing Maxwell in such danger, he rushed to his aid and together they fought against the enemy duo.

In the worst situation was Seraphina then. She was on the ground, with the remaining two nomads holding her down by pressing her bow to her neck. They didn’t seem intent on killing her, but they were already trying to drag her away. But they hadn’t taken into account she was an Elemental. A scorcher. It was their burning flesh that had woken Vivienne.

It took her moments to assess everything. It took her a few moments more to throw off her covers, remove her daggers from their sheaths and charge at the one in most immediate danger. Seraphina and her aggressors. They both screamed as Seraphina’s fire enveloped them, but Vivienne didn’t shy away. She body slammed the first, both rolling down the hill, which gave Seraphina the chance to twist her bow and stab the man above her with the blades Reggie had installed in the bow.

With Seraphina away from a desperate situation, Vivienne focused on her own battle. She kicked the man away from her and patted on her sleeves to extinguish the fire she’d caught. She couldn’t , but Seraphina helped with that. Vivienne held on her daggers as she crouched, ready to dodge any charge or knife. Turned out she didn’t need to do much more, since the man, seeing the rest of the nomads defeated, went to flee.

“Ohh, no, you don’t, you ingrate!” Seraphina yelled and shot at him. It took three arrows to bring him down. While Vivienne rushed to her side, Seraphina turned to the men and tried to aim at the remaining two. No such luck. “Viv, they’re way too close together, go help them!”

She didn’t need to be told twice. Again she ran, this time towards the men, while a loud howl was masking her footsteps. She’d learnt to distinguish it. Raine was on her way too. Vivienne sprinted towards the man and Maxwell, since Reggie was working on the woman. He was armed, even if hurt, she wasn’t. Less of a threat.

Maxwell and the man, similarly built, were throwing punches at each other. The nomad seemed more skilled in such a style since he hardly had any marks, while Maxwell already sported a bleeding brow and the skin under his eye seemed a deep shade of red. The nomad saw Vivienne come, but with his attention divided between her and Maxwell, he made a mistake. He didn’t notice the wolf behind him.

Raine jumped on his back, startling him enough to stagger and give Maxwell the chance to hold him while Vivienne stab him in the chest. They turned, out of breath, and witnessed Reggie giving the final blow, running the woman through.

“What the hell was that?” Seraphina exclaimed standing on her good leg and limping towards them. Raine rushed to her side.

“The nomads I mentioned.” Vivienne explained kneeling down to search the man she’d finished off. There was nothing. Simple nomads as she guessed. “How did they get past you? Where did they come from?”

“The climbed the cliff. Though how, I have no idea.” Reggie answered touching his shoulder. It still bled. “We never heard them coming.”

Maxwell took a deliberate deep whiff. “Sulphur. At least one basher. That explains their ascent.”

Reggie looked at Seraphina. “I thought you said petrichor was the telltale of an Earth Elemental.”

“It’s not standard. Depends on the area. Generally, if you smell anything out of the ordinary, any rocky smell should have you on edge.” Seraphina said. “There must be brimstone ores beneath the surface.”

“Most likely.” Maxwell speculated too. “You woke up just as it all started, Viv. They must’ve not see you all wrapped up like that. But, everyone okay? Considering?” He asked already touching his face tentatively. He’d received quite a few blows. He’d soon bruise.

There were affirmative grunts all around. Seraphina must’ve been struck in the knee, inducing her pain. Vivienne had hardly slept, so her head still ached, it became worse even with the exertive use of her gift and the physical combat. Lastly, Reggie tried to take his jacket off to inspect the wound.

Though her eyes sparkled, in fear and worry, Seraphina didn’t spare more than a few words, limping her way to him. “Shoulder? Really? You could’ve parried. Be faster next time.”

“I’ll try to remember. Ouch…” He breathed when Maxwell assisted in the jacket removal.

He made both him and Seraphina sit down. “I had to. Viv, stay away from us.”

She lifted her hands up. “I’m not doing anything.”

“You’d better not. Your eyes are redder than usual. You need sleep.” Seraphina more or so ordered. “Max, get me the kit. He’ll need stiches.”

Her brother complied as Vivienne plopped down next to them. Reggie was slightly apprehensive of Seraphina’s movements. “One of those moments?” He wondered aloud, looking straight at her.

The scorcher nodded. “Just be glad I still remember your uses. Stay still.” She replied in some sort of private joke.

Maxwell stood observing the dead bodies of the nomads. “The north’s so much more complicated than the south. We need to be extra careful.”

Seraphina took the needle of her mouth and started stitching Reggie’s shoulder. “You could’ve kept on with your favourite pastime and not needlessly worry over me. We’d be up to date.” She scolded him as usual. “One thing’s for certain, we can trust no one. Not even our kind.”

They didn’t encounter any problems for the following forty days and nights. There had been times when they had to hide away from military squads, the sort the emperor had sent after Seraphina, or other kind of nomadic groups. They’d come close to lone fellows, but they kept their distance even then, though it might’ve been a roamer from Embersummit. As a rule, they shied away from all human contact to avoid any altercations or squabbles. The only exceptions were the hives, but even then, they only approached the ones Embersummit had confirmed were safe.

One of them was Calcheth, in the valley below them.

“Okay, we have a small problem.” Reggie stuttered through gritted teeth. The temperature had already dropped greatly and the first signs of snow had already made their appearance a few days before.

“What did you overlook this time?” Seraphina chastised shaking her head. They had reaffirmed their relationship during her tending of his shoulder, but she could hardly change her core personality.

“I just forgot I’ve been here…in full uniform with my squad when we were on route to the outpost… We were simply passing through, but stayed for a couple of days due to a storm.” Reggie replied sheepishly. “Now I know why they were looking down on us so much.”

“The hivespeople never forget the faces of imperials. You can’t go down there.” Maxwell stated the obvious. “Even if they see the tattoo, your past’s more important to them…”

“Not to mention they don’t know us, so they’ll be even more reserved like the rest we’ve encountered.” Seraphina continued. She didn’t like the situation.

“Well, you guys can still go in, resupply, rest and we’ll meet in the morning.” Reggie offered clutching his cloak.

“Big no, no, puppy. We’re not splitting up again…” Seraphina said exchanging looks with her brother. The memories of last time were still fresh in their minds. “We’re all freezing together one more night.”

“Seems so.” Maxwell agreed and looked to Vivienne, who was paying absolutely no attention to them. “Viv? Anything wrong?” Her head was cocked to the side, her eyes narrowed in on the town and she appeared to struggle with something.

She barely spared them a glance. “Shh, give me a minute.” She returned to her task.

The wait cracked Seraphina’s nerves. She hardly noticed Reggie slipping his hand in hers until he spoke. His hand was ice cold. “Think I messed something up?”

She shook her head. “I don’t know, I don’t see how you could. They can’t possibly have spotted us yet.”

Everyone held their breaths as they waited for Vivienne to decipher whatever bothered her. They stared at her, searching for anything that would help them understand, but her muggings revealed nothing but her unease.

At long last, her eyes widened as she finally figured out whatever unnerved her. It didn’t look good. “Uh oh…”

“What?” The rest uttered simultaneously.

Vivienne turned to look at them. “The empire’s seized control of the town. Well, sort of. The inn’s filled with a large squad of them.”

Maxwell sighed in relief. “Damn, Viv, you scared us. Calcheth is one of the larger hives, of course his forces would use it to rest. Even Reggie’s team did.”

“He has a point.” Seraphina added taking a deep breath to calm down. “I guess that saves us time. We all stay away.”

“Actually…” Vivienne cut her off before she went on to ordering them around.

“Vivienne, I’m a generally calm person, but you even have me irritated. Say it already.” Reggie pressed crossing his arms.

Vivienne stared at him for a short moment, surprised at his insistence. He’d only really showed any resolve to Seraphina in private times and that time Maxwell cornered him. “We have a bigger problem than you think. Their lieutenant recognized my peaking. The emperor may not have told him exactly what it is, but he knows I’m near. Or rather, he thinks it’s you, Sera.”

Seraphina was genuinely surprised at that. Quentin had made it seem like that operation for her capture was quite under wraps, so she never considered the emperor might’ve disclosed anything concerning her false nature to anyone. She had assumed, just like Reggie had so many times, and she was similarly wrong. Another complication for them.

“Well, that… changes things.” Maxwell remarked. “We can’t simply get past them. The empire will have a known location on us.”

“Indeed. You said it’s a large squad. Numbers?” Seraphina said reaching for the spyglass in her pack. In full infiltrator mode, she observed the town and all its points of entry, escape and possible ambush.

“Nothing like the army we saw march, but not the usual seven-person team. I’m counting twenty at the moment in the inn, lieutenant included.” Vivienne quickly informed her. “Most are asleep, easy targets, and only their leader seems to know of my presence for now.”

“We need to keep it that way. They’re looking for me, so let’s use it to our advantage.” Seraphina suggested and Maxwell instantaneously got her meaning.

“You just said splitting up is out of the question.” Her brother more or so accused her, worry clouding his eyes.

Seraphina rolled her eyes. “Only momentarily, Max. Now shut up and listen. I have a plan.”

◊◊◊

Maxwell and Seraphina watched as Vivienne and Reggie strolled into the inn, side by side. It was rather comical how jealous Maxwell was, huffing and cringing every time Reggie leaned his head against Vivienne’s. “I don’t see how it doesn’t bother you. He has his hands on her.”

Seraphina couldn’t help the chuckle. “For one, baby brother, I know them and two, if you weren’t so jealous, you’d see he’s too uncomfortable doing it.”

“I could’ve gone in with her.” Maxwell complained again while they were making their way to the back of the inn. As if sensing their unease, Raine had followed them into the town, something she’d previously never done. Whenever they approached a hive, she roamed the outskirt woods, meeting them in the morning when they departed.

Nightlight’s skin created quite the contrast against the white snow all around, but fortunately there were none about so late at night. “I told you before. Even if Reggie isn’t familiar with anyone in the platoon, he knows how to talk to them in a casual sense.” She dismounted with his help and limped her way to the door as he tied their horses. “When have I ever been wrong in my plans?”

His only response was a grunt and she knocked on the door. She’d already pulled her hood back to show her ear to whoever answered. An elderly woman came into view, covering her eyes to block the falling snow. “Who are you two?”

“Friends.” Maxwell replied and they both showed the back of their ears.

The woman looked them over and her inspection stopped right at Seraphina’s crutch with a gasp. “Yes, we know. We’re here to eliminate them.”

“They’re too many. You won’t get them all unscathed.” The woman replied in a pitiful manner. “And more keep appearing.”

“The last one with the redhead is with us. He was in the imperial military working undercover for us.” Maxwell offered.

Under normal circumstances, the woman would never accept that lie so easily. She’d ask questions. She’d even have them detained, or worse, until news from the League would confirm their story. But with a more pressing threat in her own home, she didn’t oppose them. She simply stepped back and let them in.

The twins crossed the kitchens and scouted the main room for their partners and their prey. Just like Vivienne had said, he was at the table closest to the counter, facing towards the door with obvious unease. A few of his comrades, four in number, were still awake. Seraphina took her position in the shadows and aimed right at him, awaiting Vivienne’s signal.

“I don’t see or hear her.” Maxwell commented warily.

“She’s stealthier than me and has an ace up her sleeve. She’s fine. Ten kills of asleep men. She can handle it.” Seraphina whispered, her eyes never leaving her aimed target.

On their way down, the company had eliminated the five-person squad the lieutenant had sent out the moment he felt Vivienne tap his mind. They’d let them wander off some distance of the inn, then Seraphina had felled two from horseback before the rest had managed to charge at the remaining three. The stormy night and the element of surprise had proved helpful in their endeavor again, none got hurt.

Then they divided. Reggie and Vivienne went through the front as a passing couple seeking shelter, the twins went to the back where hivespeople would answer and such a conversation was their specialty, even in the unknown north.

As per imperial custom, whether on duty or not, an individual of lower rank was required to officially greet the outranking officer and state their business in the region. Between Reggie and Maxwell, the choice was obvious to Seraphina’s mind, yet Maxwell didn’t take it well, but they outvoted him and he had to comply.

And so Reggie went in and got talking with the lieutenant, while Vivienne excused herself at the pretense of a bathroom need, to sneak upstairs in the sleeping quarters of the imperials. The moment every asleep member of the platoon would be dead and Vivienne would be ready to fight, she’d let her power wash through the minds of everyone in close proximity to the inn.

That was the signal Seraphina waited.

A gentle touch on her mind to release the arrow. Maxwell crawled behind the counter, war axe in hand. The employees of the inn continued with their work, but made sure to stay out of the direct line between Seraphina and the lieutenant. They also slowly pulled back from the main room, after the twins informed them what was about to happen. Thanks to the time of day, no one would question such a thing.

The light touch came. Reggie gave the slight nod. Maxwell rose from the ground to a crouch. Vivienne sure had her daggers in hand on the stairs. They only needed Seraphina to let her bolt fly. It did.

But the twins and Reggie weren’t the only ones to feel Vivienne tapping into their minds. The lieutenant did too and he sprung up. So the arrow, rather than finding home in the imperial’s neck, lodged itself in his back. Before Seraphina had managed to redraw, Reggie had already reacted and finished the job, slashing at the man’s neck. It was an ugly, messy sight.

He turned to the last of the squad, drunk and half-asleep as they were. Maxwell and Vivienne joined him. Seraphina shot from afar. They made quick work of the soldiers. Those four were their easiest kills of the night.

Maxwell and Reggie carried away into a safe distance all twenty bodies, stacking them into a pile, and set them aflame, destroying all evidence of their presence in the hive. Whatever gold or belongings they had no need of were given to the hivespeople, as compensation for the clutter they’d caused at the inn.

Despite their obvious reproach for all the blood and viscera they’d have to clean, the innkeeper and her employees were thankful for the unexpected income. They gave the group untouched rooms to rest in and they all called it a night.

Just as Seraphina got under the covers with Reggie, there came insistent scratches on the door. He went to it, already knowing what he’d find. Raine wanting to come in. And she did. Like she owned the place, she climbed atop the bed. Thankfully, it was large enough to fit all three of them if Reggie and Seraphina clutched onto another.

As if a fire burned within her, she was always warm, thus far never feeling too cold. It was something Reggie had used most nights since winter really hit them. He clung onto her to warm up. “Feeling better about yourself?”

“Quite. It’s been a long time since I put my skills to use or felt any bit useful.” Seraphina pulled back from his chest to look at him under the dim light of the candle fire. “How’s being on the other side? I hope you didn’t know the men.”

“I didn’t.” He shook his head. “But even if I did, I wouldn’t change sides.”

She touched her lips to his chin and buried her head in his chest. “Good. I have enough worries already.”

Footsteps, oh so light footsteps, kept coming down the stone stairs above. She could not hear them through the screams of the tortured Elementals around her, but she could feel them. Feel the man’s feet sliding on her own skin. As if he was stepping directly on her. Soon everyone would also feel his presence. Then they’d really scream.

But not her. She had long accepted her fate. She’d learned to detach herself from the reality of her hell. Hell. The only certainty one had in the Emperor’s deepest, most forgotten dungeons. Each had their own. For every Element was different and every person had different levels of affinity.

The strongest they always kept alive. He needed them, though for what purpose none knew. She couldn’t help the cackle that built up in her chest at the thought of how her inner nature and inherit gift was the reason behind her predicament. She didn’t bother rising off the cold floor made of stainless steel and covered in black tar. Only one way to keep a powerful Earth Elemental deep within the ground and not worry over them escaping.

Give them something greater to fear.

Being burnt alive sure worked well in her case. Death didn’t scare her. She’d welcome it. It was the knowledge that they’d never allow her its sweet release. She’d already give it a try a few times. The only thing she achieved was experience pain for a long time, days, seasons, sometimes full cycles, and mark her body. There was no hope for her, or anyone else in the dungeons.

The Emperor’s power swept over the dungeon and as she’d expected, her neighbours started screaming louder than before. Even the jailors seemed unease. One minute she only felt him oppress her and the next, there he was.

Standing tall at the centre of the burrow, his bare feet touching the greasy floor, his black robe nowhere to be seen like any other time he’d visited them. Instead, he wore trousers and a shirt as obsidian as the tar filling every cell. He let his ripped arms out, showing the scars that covered his skin. Scars he’d received so long ago he might not even remember the culprit himself.

The Emperor surveyed the room, gazing into every screamer’s eyes and the wails ceased. “Leave.” He said observing his nails. The guards immediately followed his command left the Earth Elementals’ cells. He ran his fingers through his silky, bronze hair as his power washed over the room. She could feel the tingles on her skin he caused.

“You might wonder why I’m here when there hasn’t been an addition to your lot in a while. You’re in luck. I’m not here to go over you once more. Instead, it seems you’ll finally be of use to me.” The Emperor announced indifferently.

Her ears perked up at that. “Now, isn’t that interesting…” She thought. She might not have ever wanted to be of help to him, but the idea she could be, anyone could be, meant even he couldn’t do all by himself. She felt a certain euphoria at that little fact.

And that brought his attention to her. Their eyes locked. “You find it interesting?” The glint in her eyes was answer enough. He did a brief inspection of her cell, steel bars everywhere and metal shackles on her, and smiled. “I remember you…” he squinted at her, “…you were smaller, a child. A powerful slugger you’ve become, I see. Far more impressive than your puny parents. I had them killed, didn’t I?” He asked with a smirk.

Anything he’d say would pass without a trace of effect. Anything besides that. Making her think, remember bits of her life before her capture…That affected her. “Screw you.” Her words filled the room with gasps.

“Hmm, not a bad idea. Then you’ll join the abominations and roam the land in search of someone.” He once again scrutinized her. “You may have a death wish, but I need you alive, gotta find this girl for me.”

She scoffed. “If you think I’ll help you with anything, you’re delusional.”

“Neither you nor anyone else here have a choice in the matter.” He wouldn’t drop the smirk off his face. It irritated her as much as the shackles in her hands and ankles.

“The moment you let me out of these chains, I’ll kill you.” She calmly told him, though her tone carried every bit of hatred he felt for the man.

He wasn’t rattled. “Let’s test that theory, shall we?” He reached for the keys on the wall behind him.

She was taken aback by the oddity in his behavior. In the times she’d spent in his dungeon, fifteen cycles she’d heard the guards say once, she had only witnessed him enjoy every scream, every cower, every flinch his torturers caused to the “new additions” as he’d called. Newly captured Elementals, Earth Elementals in that part of the dungeon.

“Now, now…” He moved to her cell’s door, removed his shirt very slowly and looked her in the eye very deliberately. When he touched her hands, her mind went blank.

Damien smiled and unlocked first the door, then her chains. He took her right then and there, in front of every other prisoner, while she put up no fight. She never tried to hurt him, only please him in any way he wished. “Didn’t I tell you, there was no choice?”

She nodded. “Yes, master. I’m sorry, master. I should’ve believed.”

“Indeed.” He said running his fingers along her greasy cheek. “I love breaking the minds of strong-willed fools like you. So fun to see you so… feeble and forlorn.”

“I’m glad you enjoy it, sir.” She answered beaten. Around them, no prisoner dared speak or glance their way.

“Of course, you are.” He laughed and then grabbed her by the neck, squeezing. “Listen to me very carefully now.” She repeatedly nodded even before he finished his sentence. “What was your name again?”

“Etta, master.” She answered.

“Right. I need you to do something for me, Etta. I told you I need someone found. A woman.” He watched as a confused expression appeared on her face. “I’ll give you and the others a drawing later, but right now I need you to listen to me. I want you to find her, incapacitate and keep her unconscious till she’s back here with me.”

“Yes, master.” She nodded. “But why?” She asked confused.

“Strong-willed, indeed…” He uttered to himself. “It doesn’t matter. Stay away from her and keep her unconscious. Stay away from her at any cost. You're only allowed to kill her if there is no other choice.”

“Yes, master.”

Damien needed that woman found. She had already accomplished too much for his liking. She obviously had knowledge and good control of her nature. Maybe a mentor. But the emperor had gone into great lengths to exterminate all the ones who didn’t leave, his own kind.

Except for one.

“Can it be?” Anger swelled up inside Damien. “The old man’s still alive?” He’d allowed the man to live, maimed and helpless, to witness the empire spread across the land. It’d been a punishment Damien had given much thought into a long time ago. He let the empire seize control over every corner of the land before he went on the hunt. He’d stayed vigilant for many cycles. Tenths of them. He had assumed his pride and horror had gotten the best of him, driven him over the edge. When he heard whispers of Lucian's return, he sent his minions to end the threat. In their memories, he saw them kill his old friend. “Was I wrong…?”

After the incident in Calcheth, for fear it wasn’t just one imperial who knew about Vivienne’s reading, they made Vivienne scout ahead only when it was necessary and stirred clear off all roads, opting to stay close to the Wastes, watching as the snowstorms in the desert limited their field of vision. Where they could previously see the mountains at a great distance, barren land in between, they could barely see beyond a few paces in the desolate plains.

The winter had only just begun, but the temperatures were already at great lows and the only reason they hadn’t frozen themselves to death was Seraphina was there to always keep a fire going, no matter the inclemency. Yet another time having a scorcher around proved essential. They were careful to light their fires in places there would be little visibility. They could hardly hide it, but they tried their best.

Ahead of them the ground showed a certain pitch, which Reggie informed led to a high ridge, starting from somewhere in the wastes till a few miles into the land. No one knew how deep into the desert the palisades reached, as none who’d ventured had returned to tell the tale.

According to their maps, Briohall stood a ten-day journey from the fell, so getting past it was essential. The problem lied with how they had to cross it. They weren’t worried about time as safety was their first priority. Going around wasn’t out of the question at first. But according to the warnings of imperial reports in Reggie’s time of service, thieves occupied the gorge. The Shepherds confirmed that it wasn’t like the Lotham Narrows, a story to mask their presence, but something the imperials had actually seen in their patrols of the land.

To avoid the gorge, the councils back in Embersummit had given them an alternative. There was a pass, high up the slopes, created by the Earth Elementals after Briohall’s evacuation and closed up just enough for a horse to go through.

“I don’t see what the problem is.” Maxwell remarked annoyed they’d stopped yet again to discuss the same matter.

“It’s too confided for my taste.” Reggie replied observing the maps one more time.

“The Narrows were confined too, but we crossed them anyway.” Seraphina reminded with a shrug.

Reggie nodded quickly. “Yeah, but we were in a hurry to catch up to Max and Viv. No one’s rushing us now. I don’t want to take us through a pass the councils not only haven’t used, but probably haven’t even been close to in fifty winters.”

“If they told us we can use it, they have a reason.” Maxwell insisted.

“They’ve been hiding things from you all your life. What if this is another thing they overlooked?” Reggie shot back.

It had become a regular talk between the two men since the matter was brought up. At first, Seraphina and Vivienne just let them play it out and agree to disagree. But they’d grown tired and impatient hearing the same conversation. “Boys, this ends now. You’re worn us out.”

“I’ll have to agree with Sera. We can’t postpone it any longer, so let’s decide right now whether to ascend or go around.” Vivienne informed them.

“Indeed.” Seraphina nodded and turned to the Aetheral, the men long forgotten. “How should we decide?”

“Well, the gap is a few hundred paces south, I think I could reach for any minds in the vicinity. Reports talk of thieves, not imperials, so we should be safe.” Vivienne suggested.

“Should. I hate that word. Things can go wrong.” Maxwell uttered.

“Yeah, better not endanger you, Vivienne. Raine and I can go scout instead.” Reggie offered already climbing down his horse.

“I kinda like that plan.” Maxwell said with a childish smirk.

Fire covered Seraphina’s hand as she moved her fingers playfully. “I think I’ve been quite clear. Haven’t I, Viv?”

Vivienne glared at Maxwell. “I believe so, Sera.”

“Then why is it that one suggests we split up and the other bothers my puppy?” Seraphina asked alternating her own glare between her partner and her brother. Both gulped at the sight.

“Because both are fools.” Vivienne answered shaking her head.

Reggie remounted his horse slowly, his eye never leaving Seraphina’s. Maxwell was the one to talk though. “Come on, Sera, I wouldn’t even dream of bothering him. I simply prefer his plan.”

“Right. Sure, kid.”

“We’re not doing that, so both of you can forget about it.” Vivienne voiced Seraphina’s thoughts and waited no one’s permission as she let her power sweep the area.

“Viv, stop it. It’s dangerous, not to mention that the distance’s great and your result may be wrong, so let’s do it differently. The gap’s only a couple of hours away.” Seraphina thought to Vivienne and continued aloud. “We can slightly divert our way, check the gap for signs of human presence and if we find anything, return to the pass.”

Reggie seemed to ponder the proposal. “Well, even if we go straight to the pass, we’re not crossing it today, so I guess it won’t hurt and I’d much prefer going through the gap.”

“Eh, I think it’s a waste of our time, but sure. Anything for my girls.” Maxwell concurred. His tone didn’t go unnoticed by anyone. Vivienne thumped the back of his head, before Seraphina did anything with the flames surrounding her fingers. “Ouch.”

“Don’t be an idiot and there’ll be no more of that.” Vivienne warned him.

Seraphina caught the light smirk Reggie tried to hide with his hood beside her. “That applies to you as well.” He cleared his throat and nodded. “Nightlight and I will go ahead. Unless you mind.”

“As if it’d matter…” Reggie breathed. Indeed, it didn’t.

◊◊◊

As Maxwell predicted, setting out to see if the pass was clear was a vain attempt. Even without Vivienne's unique help, it was rather obvious to the trained eye that it was a true bandit lair. Poorly hidden wreckage lay on the sides, there seemed to be embrasures higher up the slope, but more importantly there were warning signs in the kind of animal skulls all over the edge of the gap.

They didn’t waste any more time and rode straight to the entrance of the pass the resistance had suggested. By the time they reach their chosen campsite, not too close to the pass yet not too far either, the sun had already set and the temperature had dropped excessively. They huddled together around the fire to get warm, with Raine lying close unlike other times. Any sleep was restless, the cold certainly didn’t help.

When morning came, they led their very reluctant horses into the depths of the pass. Vivienne wasn’t allowed to read the area. Their course was already set. When Raine figured they were riding through the narrow path, she sniffed the air and went in first. The wolf’s nose was good enough confirmation for them.

As reliable as Raine’s sense of smell was, they all drew their weapons and checked every rack, every crevice they found. They stayed fully alert for possible danger. None was skittish, though they had reasons to. they were still determined to finish their task.

Without so much as a whisper, they found themselves on the other side of the fell, safe and unharmed, half a day later. The moment they were out, Raine ran off ahead of them, the time she’d spent confined having quite an effect. They spurred their horses after her, letting the beasts show their worth. They didn’t disappoint.

Just a few more days to Briohall and its master.

Standing on the ridge overlooking the valley four riders and a wolf trekked were two figures, clad in warm, white wolf cloaks, and observed the passing party. Their bows were sheathed, lying across their backs untouched.

“Why didn’t we crush them?” The younger of two asked confused.

The elder kept his gaze firm at the riders. “They’re a peculiar bunch. They seem to have come here on purpose, seeking something or maybe someone.” He replied, deep in thought.

“What’s it to us? The keeper has tasked us to watch over the road and we just let them off when we don't even know where they came from. We should’ve done something more.” The former shot back, irritated.

“Be careful who you talk back to, boy.” The elder warned without averting his eyes from the departing group. “Come on, we have some prey to follow.”

When the snowstorms subsided, all they could see in the land ahead of them was rock, dust and ashes. There was no trace of life, no trees, no animals other than vultures, nothing. For water they had to count on Maxwell’s senses to dig, deep enough to find groundwater. Dirty it was, but it was all they had.

Ten days after they emerged from the basher-made pass, they had yet to find the landmarks indicated in their instructions. “Why would they make this place a base?”

“Does it matter, Max?” Vivienne asked miffed. “The only answer I want right now is where Briohall is. If another snowstorm hits we have no cover. Sera can’t keep us all warm, all the time.”

“They said ten days. Maybe they didn’t consider they were in a hurry to leave back then…” Maxwell tried to excuse the council once again.

Seraphina spoke up before either Vivienne or Reggie went on to argue with Maxwell as before. “Little brother, I hate to remind you, but when it comes to directions to our bases, the councilmen aren’t exactly straightforward. They only give out a general area. Even when it’s this important, they make us work for it.”

“So they’re purposely hindering our progress?” Reggie asked clenching his fist. “So what do we do, chief?”

Seraphina gave a needless look around. Nothing besides them. “How’re you feeling, Viv? Up for a mass read?”

Vivienne nodded and soon they all felt her invade their minds. They waited a good ten minutes before she stopped. “I’m pretty sure there’s no human ahead of us in close proximity, but there’s wildlife for sure.”

It was Seraphina’s turn to nod. “How about we keep on for two more days? If we find nothing, we revise our plan.”

Vivienne cut her off. “Yeah, you didn’t let me finish… A little problem. Don’t turn back, but we’re being followed. Two nomads.”

That created tension in their group. Seraphina felt herself go rigid. “Close?”

“No, but they have us in sight. I can’t tell how long.” Vivienne replied shaking her head. “I shouldn’t have let you talk me into keeping to myself.”

“What’s done is done.” Maxwell attempted to reassure her. “Two. We can handle them if they get any closer.”

“Yeah, Sera can bring them down before they become any threat.” Reggie added confidently and winked at her.

Of course she could. Was that ever in question?

◊◊◊

Turned out they didn’t need two days. The morning after, they reached the oasis their directions spoke of. At least they weren’t off course. They kept close eye on their distant pursuers, who never got any closer. According to Vivienne, they only got more confused by group’s movements and wondered of their intentions. They were surprised when they reached the oasis themselves, indicating that even if they were locals, they hadn’t been that far in the desert.

That’s where they turned back, leaving the quartet in peace. Until they’d have to return at least, because Seraphina was sure they’d regroup and await them close to the pass. It was what any tracker would do. Allow their prey to starve or dehydrate themselves to death or corner them. They’d tried the first and resulted in failure, the second was coming to effect.

“Does that look like a tower to you?” Reggie asked, interrupting Seraphina’s thoughts of how to deal with the nomads on their way back.

“It kinda does. Maybe a little smaller than most, though.” Maxwell agreed. “Wanna give it a try, Viv?”

“Sure. But it might spook him.” Vivienne warned them. “If he’s in there, anyway.”

“What’s the worst that can happen?” Seraphina asked with a shrug. "We're out in the open, it's not like we can hide our approach. Go ahead, Viv."

No sooner had the last word left her mouth than Seraphina felt Vivienne's invasion. The scorcher may not have been her intended target, but the gift washed over her nonetheless. But the light, even pleasant at times, touch disappeared suddenly making Seraphina and the men turn to Vivienne expectantly. She seemed confused.

"Well...? What's the verdict?" Maxwell inquired calmly, but his hand had already reached for his axe.

Vivienne awkwardly scratched at her temple. "I don't know. I got...pushed back. That's never happened before. Hmm..." Her breath caught up.

"I doubt that's bad. It probably has something to do with this Aetheral business." Reggie offered lightly.

"That's not it. Do you feel that?" Vivienne asked eyeing them.

"Yeah... You're reading us, aren't you?" Maxwell asked and brought his horse next to hers.

It was a rather pointless question. The look of wonder across her face revealed more than anything she could say. "That's how I make you feel? When I read you?"

"Pretty much, yeah. Now you see why I was so perplexed." Maxwell confirmed nodding. Reggie followed his example, but Seraphina was already in the midst of clearing her mind. "Keep trying."

"He's letting me back in!" Vivienne exclaimed having followed Maxwell's nudge. "No point in hiding anything, Sera. He's already figured out our purpose. As a sign of good faith, he'll pull back from our minds."

"Show him the same courtesy.” Seraphina suggested and spurred Nightlight on. Raine was the first to follow, but soon they were all in step, moving swiftly, closing the distance between them and their long desired goal. With the end so near, they involuntarily pushed their horses to their limits, arriving before what they assumed to be Briohall’s bulwark.

“Should we knock?” Reggie asked eyeing the barricaded gate.

“They know we’re coming. He must’ve told them.” Seraphina remarked, but as they all stood there, motionless and awkward, she recounted. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt announcing our arrival, though.”

Maxwell got off his horse, handing his reigns to Vivienne, and, approaching the door, banged on it loudly. “We’re messengers of Embersummit, here to see the master of Briohall!” He boomed and stepped back as the gate cringed.

A well-built man came out pulling a small chair-like wagon behind him. In it sat an old man, covered from the waist down with a blanket. He smiled looking directly at Seraphina. “Messengers? You may carry information, but you’re hardly simple messengers, my friends. Two very capable Elementals, an ex-imperial and a rather talented Aetheral. You’re a rather strange bunch.”

“These are rather strange times.” Seraphina replied and bowed her head from atop the saddle. The rest had dismounted. “I suppose you don’t need any introductions on our part…”

“Indeed. I am Lucian, keeper of Briohall and this is Weston.” He replied and copied Seraphina.

“Lady Zera of Embersummit has informed us you’re slightly more than that, master Lucian.” Reggie revealed, attempting to be respectful.

“Still the same after so many years I see.” Lucian chuckled. “But to answer your implied question, that, dear Reginald, is a matter for a later time. You all need rest. Weston, if you please.”