Black Steel: A Tale of Fire and Mind

“Eaaasy, Vivienne. Too much pressure and she’ll go mad.” Lucian guided her anxiously. They both had their hands on the temples of the nameless Basher as she laid shackled down on a wooden table in Lucian’s study. In the room, besides him and Vivienne, there were only Maxwell, Seraphina and Reggie. The rest of the people were preparing for the last farewell to the men and women who bravely took up arms against the trained imperial militia, but succumbed to their injuries. Many if not all of them had been caused by the unconscious woman Lucian and Vivienne were trying to heal. Another reason people stayed away from the room.

“I can feel it.” Vivienne replied. Sweat had gathered in her eyebrows through both effort and stress. “We’re treading a very thin line here, Lucian. Are you sure we can do this?”

Lucian didn’t waste any time answering. “I am certain it can be done as I have managed it before, his touch has grown stronger though. Whether we succeed in bringing her back is up to us.”

“Do you need us to give you some privacy?” Reggie offered, but it was obvious neither he, nor the twins honestly meant such a thing. They weren’t inclined to leave Lucian and Vivienne alone with the woman who had singlehandedly caused so much damage.

“No, but some space, yes. Having you over our heads does no good.” Vivienne affirmed without looking up from the woman. “Max, you could tell Sera what a Drudge is. Again.”

“Right, true. Follow me.” Maxwell concurred and walked to the other side of the room, over to one of Lucian’s vast bookcases in search of a tome, His search was deliberate, he knew what he was looking for and where he’d put it. Reggie and Seraphina didn’t follow as per his suggestion, but rather went to settle around the desk Maxwell had been using since the past winter to learn everything he could. Notes and bookstacks covered its surface still, leftovers of his morning reading.

“You could just tell us, you know.” Seraphina suggested coyly, though in vain. Whenever books were involved and he had the chance, he always preferred to have the original text at hand rather than speak from memory.

“I’ve told you before. Everyone paid attention. Everyone but you.” Maxwell replied without turning. At last he found what he was looking for. He opened the tome and when he came upon his selected passage, he looked over to Seraphina. “Want to read it yourself?”

“Nah, you do it. Read it out.” She said shaking her head.

“As you wish.” He said and cleared his throat. “No one in the Order believes me or the scouts. They cannot comprehend how our allies, even Elementals, would side with the Phantom. I cannot fault them though. Were I in their place, I wouldn’t accept this betrayal without solid proof. But I have witnessed it, both personally and through the minds of our people.

The Sluggers of Sabaria assisted his armies and brought down the mountain on Neverfall. It is only through sheer luck and our people’s knowledge of safe crevices that we made it out alive, slipping past the horde of the men he has brought under his command.

Alas, what the people could not see is that the poor Elementals were not in control of their actions. Only by delving into their minds and auras could someone see the truth. The Phantom has claimed their conscience. They have no choice, simply because they cannot make one. They can only do what he tells them.

I did not know such an atrocity was possible. Swaying one’s will is a talent some of our kind exhibit, but never to this extent, and even that slight manipulation we prohibit. I brought it before the Order, but my fellow Elders didn’t know either. We have never dwelled into the monstrosities he now has. It brought to light we should consider everything possible where he is concerned.

I will help my Order see the truth of my words, no matter how hard they are to digest. Our forces need to adjust, know what to search for in our allies, for there might be more compromises in the future. I can only hope for the opposite, but I’m no fool. There are others. Must be. I may have proof of only Sabaria’s Sluggers so far, but I know in my bones that more exist within his armies, maybe even ours.

With this newfound knowledge, the number of his followers makes sense. The betrayal isn’t voluntary. I shall call their kind Drudge, for they are devoid of their free will.

Can they be saved from this terrible fate? Maybe. I shall put in a request for one’s capture. It is possible an Aetheral’s unconventional healing talent can lift this shroud wrapped tightly around the minds of these unfortunate souls. We have to try.

Signed,

Iris of Wallowdale,

Member of the Order of Dawnfield.” Maxwell concluded.

Seraphina traced her fingers along her jaw. She didn’t like being at fault. “Hmm, I should pay a little more attention to you, kid. Even when your lectures of history and politics don’t concern me.”

“Sera, I’m pretty sure any weapon Damien used in the old times concerns us. Especially when we know, and surely so does he, that Elementals aren’t extinct.” Reggie voiced what Maxwell himself was thinking.

“I know, my fault here.” She admitted.

“Exactly what Reggie said. And now we have proof he still creates Drudges.” He added with an appreciative nod to Reggie.

Despite the difficulty and not deeming him worthy of his sister, in time Maxwell had learned to accept his presence. Reggie must’ve sensed the change in Maxwell’s attitude for he’d come to Maxwell just before winter hit Briohall and he’d asked Seraphina’s hand in marriage. He’d known it would happen as Vivienne had told him and warned him to beware of his answer. In other words, she’d more or so ordered him to accept. Maxwell had and all that remained was for Seraphina to make her choice.

Though his sister had changed, he couldn’t believe her answer would be anything other than to reject him. Vivienne kept telling him not to be so sure, but Maxwell couldn’t help it. A dilemma ate him up inside. On one hand, he wanted Seraphina to accept the proposal, so everything happening behind closed doors between them was under wedlock. A prudish notion perhaps and irrational, but one drilled into him since childhood as her brother. At the same time though, Reggie's imperial past and family ties were a big problem for him still.

“That’s a problem, sure, but you know what? It also means something else.” Seraphina said excitedly. Maxwell thought her reaction inexplicable. “Vivienne and Lucian say all they can see in that girl’s mind is a dungeon in Threne Keep, right? So, she’s proof he keeps Elementals locked up.”

“How is that exciting?” Maxwell asked exasperated. His rugged skin, covered in all sorts of scars, tingled in annoyance.

Reggie answered for her. “She thinks your mother’s in there.”

“And here’s proof he has me figured out better than you, brother dear. You’ve lost your touch.” Seraphina teased him and reached up to touch her lips to Reggie’s jaw. Maxwell’s rolled his eyes. “Regardless, we know where mom might be.”

“Was she well-attune?” Lucian’s wheelchair creaked as he approached them with Vivienne close behind, who went to sit in Maxwell’s lap. She practically melted in his arms, exhausted by the long day.

The twins faltered. Neither had a clear memory of her using her douser talents. Maxwell was the one to answer. “Possibly. Only our father can tell.”

Lucian brought his chair to a halt a step away from the desk. “Hmm, if she was, there’s a chance he had her brought to him. Back then, he only broke the powerful ones. He didn’t bother with whoever was of no use to him.”

“My gut has always told me she’s alive. We’ll find her.” Seraphina announced firmly. None had any doubt she would try. She glanced at Lucian and Vivienne. “Since you both seem satisfied with your work, I take it you were successful?”

Lucian nodded. “I believe so. Only time will tell of course, but I’m confident we have taken away Damien’s touch. Vivienne is a natural. No pun intended.” He chuckled.

“We’ll see when she wakes up, but better keep her tied up just in case.” Vivienne affirmed.

“Maybe we should get her down to the dungeon? I saw a steel animal cage down there.” Maxwell suggested, wary of the woman. He’d personally felt what a Basher could do with specks of dust and cobble. Without Vivienne’s healing, his left shoulder would have gaping wounds where the rocky projectiles had hit him.

Vivienne shook her head yawning against his chest. “That’s not happening, Max. She’s the victim here, we’re not locking her up again. The bindings are only precaution in case she lashes out when she comes to. She’ll be quite disoriented.”

He didn’t like it. It was dangerous. “Fine, but you need to sleep.” He said in her ear.

She yawned wide again. “I don’t think I have much choice in the matter. I’m shutting down.” He held her close as she buried her nose in the crook of his neck. They stayed quiet and before long, she was fast asleep.

“Did she drain herself again?” Maxwell asked Lucian with worry.

“A little more than usual, yes, but it’s not just the healing of the girl’s mind. It’s been a long day. Every strain she went through today adds to her exhaustion. She just needs sleep.” Lucian reassured him and gave him a pat on the back.

“We’ve been up training since dawn. That alone is exhausting.” Seraphina remarked with a shrug.

Lucian nodded. “Indeed. Don’t you think you should be a little more conservative with your drills?”

Reggie’s eye roll didn’t go unnoticed by Maxwell. “Don’t waste your time, master Lucian.”

Seraphina completely disregarded him. “No, I don’t.” She answered Lucian’s question. “We have more important things to worry about than me right now. Like the girl on the table?”

“As you wish.” Lucian said extending his hand and titling his head down. “I’m confident she’s regained control of her mind. I don’t see any active trace of Damien on her.”

“Can we trust her?” Seraphina asked seriously. Coming from the woman who once killed first and asked questions later, such a question seemed surreal.

“We’ll see, Seraphina. But chances are, yes, we might. There has to be a reason he made a Drudge out of her.” Lucian noted.

“Besides Elemental skill?” Reggie asked.

“It may be a simple matter of him being a sadist and wanting absolute control over everything.” Seraphina countered. “Let’s check those binds again. Just to be safe.” One couldn’t completely shake off their personalities.

“On it.” Reggie replied and approached the woman, tugging on the steel braces with force. When he was satisfied they were in order, he returned to his seat next to Seraphina. “Seems secure.”

“Excellent!” Lucian exclaimed and was the receiver of some scolding glances. Vivienne had just fallen asleep. “It is now a waiting game, unfortunately, and unlike young Vivienne here, I have no one to cradle me.” He continued with an amused chuckle. “I’ll excuse myself if you don’t mind. I need rest as well.”

“Of course, master.” They simultaneously replied, but Lucian was already wheeling himself away.

He stopped at the study’s door. “Get some shut-eye. I believe the time you embark on your quest has come.” He left them then, those endearing words hanging in the already tense atmosphere enclosed in the quiet room.

Reggie snorted loudly. “Is it just me or do they expect us to do everything? Deliver this land to them?” It was a thought that had crossed Maxwell’s mind many times over during their stay in Briohall.

Soon after they had reached the base in the wasteland, Lucian sent out messengers to Embersummit and known hives along the way to relay the news. Briohall was still active and ready to assist. In his missive, he’d included the fact that Vivienne’s training had been going well and in time she would stand a chance against Damien. The envoy returned with additions.

Roamers of Embersummit had brought in a message from Brenton and the council. With a real chance in sight, they had already begun trying to form a decent force, one who could help in the fight against the Emperor. They’d decided they couldn’t oversee the planning from just within the mountain and so half the councilmen had journeyed across the land to Hollow Grove to coordinate with the south from there.

Quite sensible in general, yet they expected too many things from Vivienne, and subsequently the rest of the company. They wanted to be the bait, the annoying flies in the Emperor’s personal space, his dominion, so Vivienne could get through and reach him. She hadn’t backed down from the challenge. She’d spent her time in Briohall training relentlessly. She’d trained both her body and element because of it. She didn’t want to disappoint. Whom? Maxwell had yet to figure it out.

“She’s the only one we know who can get within range of him and not die. It’s not that unreasonable…” Seraphina noted yawning wide. “Max and I are good at killing people, so again, we’re good candidates for such an operation…”

“…and you won’t leave Sera’s side, so you’re added into the mix.” Maxwell concluded and rose up from his seat. He went to lay Vivienne on one of the sofas and covered her with a blanket Lucian had requested.

“So, you’re all worth something and I follow. Good to know.” Reggie breathed quietly. Maxwell pretended not to hear and just tucked Vivienne in nicely.

“We’re all good at something, Reg.” There was a pause in Seraphina’s hushed words and Maxwell could hear some shuffling. “You won that battle today with minimal casualties. You’re good at inspiring others, good with words. You’re a good leader.”

Maxwell looked up just in time to see a wide grin appear on Reggie’s face as he stared into Seraphina’s eyes and she held up his head by holding on to the dark gold scruff on his chin. Maxwell could tell they’d forgotten all about him in that moment, lost as they were in each other.

Until Reggie nudged and tried, unsuccessfully, to tickle her. “Maybe I should request a transfer to your dad’s forces then. Offer my expertise.”

That made Maxwell chuckle and brought an instantaneous change in Seraphina, as she openly glared at Reggie. “Sure, go. While you’re at it, give him another reason to kill you.” She shook her head and glanced at Maxwell. “You. Don’t laugh. I have plenty of stories to share with Vivienne, so don’t push me.” She got up and headed to the second sofa of the study. “I’ll get some sleep. Wake me up when it’s my shift.”

Both men gulped and exchanged looks. Reggie mouthed an “I was joking” to which Maxwell nodded, but neither could do much about in that moment. With the women fast asleep on the sofas, they could do nothing but wait.

Wait, they did.

◊◊◊

The trembles surging through the marble floors in Lucian’s study woke Maxwell up with a start. It was his light sleeping that woke him and not so much the tremors themselves. They were light and didn’t constitute any danger, but they were startling still.

When he came to, he saw Seraphina skipping to a sleeping Reggie and nudging him awake, while Vivienne was fast approaching the nameless Elemental bound on the table. The only difference from the night before was that she was wide awake then. Maxwell didn’t waste any more time. He got up and went to Vivienne’s side, watching the Basher’s every movement. His fist was already clenched tight.

Vivienne wasn’t as cautious as him though and stood close to her. The tremors ceased when she was no longer disoriented. “There’s nothing to fear. We’re not here to hurt you.” The basher’s eyes reflected no fear, only curiosity and a deep frenzy. “My name’s Vivienne and this is Maxwell. How should we call you?”

The Basher inspected the room as best as she could from her position. “Is this some new kind of torture? Giving me false hope?” She asked and tried to sit up. “You can tell him nothing affects me anymore!” She shouted, but didn’t try to use her Elemental gift on them. It seemed as if she didn’t mean to cause those power waves moments earlier. The initial disorientation perhaps.

“The Emperor? We’re not his torturers.” Seraphina said as Vivienne ran her palms across the Basher’s forehead. “We’re against him, we want to rid the world of his wretched being.” Seraphina announced coming into view. “Here, let me prove it.” She unstrapped the keys from her belt and unlocked the locks keeping the chains wrapped tight around the basher before Maxwell or Reggie managed to stop her. “We’ll never be on his side.”

But the basher wasn’t listening to her words. She didn’t even acknowledge she had no restraints on her. She was openly staring at Seraphina. “I know you…”

“Do you? Or is it just my face that seems familiar?” Seraphina tried to touch the woman, but she jumped away. “You let Vivienne touch you. Are you really that afraid of my touch?”

She crouched down in the corner, holding onto her head, desperate. “I’m not sure… It is all fuzzy in head, yet clear at the same time.” She rocked back and forth slowly. “What has he done to me? If you’re telling the truth, why do I still feel him?”

Vivienne went to kneel in front of her. “Sorry, that’s me you feel. I needed to make sure you won’t harm us.”

“Stop it. I don’t want his touch on me.” She trembled and shook her head. “Not on my body, not on my mind.”

Vivienne must’ve stopped reading her as her shoulders became less rigid, though the rocking never stopped. “You’re safe. He’s nowhere near you.”

She looked up then. “I know. I know exactly where he is. I came from there.”

All ears perked at that. Even though Vivienne and Lucian had figured as much, receiving confirmation of her recollection was intriguing. Maxwell knelt behind Vivienne so as not to scare the woman. “You remember? Where you came from?”

Her pupils turned into slits and she greeted her teeth. “Ohh, I remember. Every detail of that despicable dungeon, from the specks of dust to the inanimate guards. Everything. I’ve spent all my life in that hellhole.”

Some gasped. “All your life? You must’ve been a child when he took you.” Reggie remarked.

Seraphina turned back to him and whispered. “Why should that surprise us? We know what kind of monster he is.” The woman heard her and nodded along still gritting her teeth. “You know their names, mine’s Seraphina and that is Reggie. And you?”

“My parents called me Etta.” She surveyed all four of their faces, searching for something, though what that was Maxwell had no clue. There was obvious madness behind her every stare though. It took all of his willpower not to chain her up again. Willpower and the badgering he’d get from Seraphina. Etta locked eyes with Vivienne and spoke. “What has he done to me? My mind doesn’t feel my own.”

Maxwell noticed Vivienne’s lips curl up in a smile. “It is now. That’s all that matters. You just need time to be yourself.”

“You didn’t answer my question.” Etta was observant.

Vivienne scratched her arm nervously. “He forced his will upon you. You were his pawn. You had no control over your thoughts or actions.”

“Did I hurt anyone?” She implored. It became rather clear her memories were scrambled. She rubbed her temples and when no one answered, tears began rolling down her cheeks. “The edge of the desert…. It’s not just a bad dream, is it? It was real…?” Maybe not so scrambled after all.

“You weren’t yourself.” Vivienne repeated touching her scrunched shoulders.

She shook it off. “It doesn’t matter. I did his bidding.” The corners of Etta’s eyes crinkled and she glanced at each twin. “You two… You’re like me, I saw you. But not Earth. Fire… Water…” She touched her face and Maxwell guessed she was looking for the gashes his slashing water drops marred her skin. She came up empty because Vivienne and Lucian had healed her along with her mind.

“Yes. See why you have nothing to fear?” Vivienne asked with a smile.

“I have me to fear. I don’t trust me.” She peered up at Seraphina. “And you. I’m afraid of you.”

Vivienne smiled sheepishly at her. “Because of your orders probably… It’ll fade. Don’t know when, but it’ll fade.” She looked back at Seraphina and nodded. “If it’s too hard, you can avoid Seraphina.”

“It’s time she become her own woman.” Seraphina shook her head. “He’s controlled her life enough already. She can make her own choices now, can’t you, Etta?”

She didn't seem to listen. “Why does he want you?” She asked instead.

Seraphina cocked her head to the side, a known reaction when she was thinking of how to voice her cocky thoughts. Maxwell figured her head was filled with those, seeing how everyone seemed to value her opinion greatly, something not that uncommon in a group of inexperienced soldiers. They’d always look up to the veterans and the twins, despite their young age, couldn’t be considered anything other than that among men and women who’d never fought an enemy before.

“He’s made a mistake, Etta. He’s mistaken me for something I’m not, something Vivienne is. Something he desperately wants. His own kind.” Seraphina replied and they waited. Etta went rigid, but otherwise didn’t shrug off Vivienne’s hands on her shoulders. Maxwell noticed Reggie slyly move closer to Seraphina. She continued. “Do you want to know why? Because of Vivienne, we have a chance, a chance to end him.”

Etta lifted an eyebrow, clearly not believing her. Vivienne tapped on her shoulder. “It’s a chance. We’re taking it. If we succeed, his cruel reign will end, we promise you that. But, Etta…” she waited until Etta looked at her, “…we could use some help.”

She tried to spring up, but Seraphina kept her down. Etta cringed at the touch. “No, we don’t need you to come with us. You suffered enough. We need information. Anything that can prove useful to get inside the Keep. Preferably undetected.”

They waited while Etta considered the request. She closed her eyes, shook her head and went on to rub her temples. None were good signs. “I don’t know…” She whispered and opened her eyes. “I think I just walked out of the city through the main gates. I…” her hands flew to her face in desperation, before she looked up at Seraphina. “…others were with me. Bashers. I think he’s spread us out in search of you. He wants you. Bad.”

Vivienne touched her cheek and smiled at her. “See? He’s afraid. That means we can confront him.”

“Confront. It doesn’t mean we’ll survive.” Maxwell never voiced those thoughts, no matter how frequently they’d crossed his mind the more he read about their vicious oppressor. All of the Emperor’s desperation meant nothing more that he could be killed. Whether they would succeed was anything but certain. Many obstacles loomed ahead.

“Guys…Etta’s been through a lot. Let’s give her time.” Reggie suggested stopping Seraphina and Vivienne from badgering Etta. Maxwell was sure his suggestion had more to do with Etta’s trembling figure, suggesting she had little control of herself, than fatigue. Little details like that were what made Maxwell finally accept Reggie, even if he was sure Seraphina would reject his proposal.

Vivienne got up from her squatting position and offered Etta her hand. “Reggie’s right. I’m sure you could use a nice, relaxing bath.”

“Bath…?” Etta’s eyes gleamed in wonder. “I don’t remember the last time I had one those…”

“It’s high time you had one then.” Maxwell added. “You’ll be safe with the maids, won’t she, girls?”

Seraphina tried to hide her annoyance and faked a smile at Etta. “Yes. No one will dare even think of hurting you. Viv, can you escort her to the baths? I’ll follow in just a second.”

Maxwell felt Vivienne delve in his mind. He was sure she did the same with Seraphina and Reggie, gauzing their thoughts. Etta seemed to be left out, since her body didn’t go as rigid as it did the first time Vivienne had tried it. Whatever she found in Seraphina mind satisfied her, as she nodded. “My pleasure. Come on, Etta. Follow me.”

“Please be careful, Viv.” Maxwell thought to her and she winked at him, before lightly dragging Etta outside.

The moment they were out of the study, Seraphina turned to her brother, her stare intense as if she was facing an enemy. “If you think we’re gonna babysit this one and take her with us, you’re in for some disappointment. She may seem useful, but she’s a liability, we can’t trust her in this endeavor.”

Reggie touched her shoulder carefully. “Sera, he never said…”

She cut him off before he finished his sentence. “Shush, I know this idiot.” She raised a finger in front of Maxwell’s face. “Don’t try to deny it, kid. Hell, even I thought of it and I don’t exactly see the good in people.”

He didn’t make any attempts to maneuver out of it. “Is it so wrong? By the time we reach Dawnfield, she’ll regain full control of her mind, I’m sure.”

“Oh yeah? And if she doesn’t? What then? What happens if she succumbs to whatever trace he’s edged into her?” Seraphina rose and crossed her arms over her chest. “You were sleeping when Lucian stopped by earlier. He says she’s still vulnerable. In his words, ‘the mind’s a fragile thing, she could never really recover’. Ask Vivienne, if you don’t believe me.”

“That changes things…” Maxwell thought rubbing his chin in thought. “Fair enough, but while we’re here, Vivienne could be watchful of her. The people…may not be so understanding. Their loved ones are her victims, whether because of his compulsion or not, that fact doesn’t change.”

“Lucian is already on it, but he’s prepared them for such a chance before she ever came close, so… the transition will be easier here than in any other hold.” Seraphina remarked and rubbed her temples. “Anyway… I don’t care what you two do…but you have got to stop looking so daunting. Start concealing your weapons, a shave might help too. I’m sick of always being the one to coddle people.”

Both Maxwell and Reggie laughed at her indignation. She let Reggie place his arms around her, while she was shaking her head. “Here I thought you loooved coddling that puppy of yours.” Maxwell teased.

“Your brother and Viv too, if we’re to remember that all the dinners you've been cooking a couple of weeks ago. Let’s not even go to Rayne and her pups. If you keep it up, we'll have two dogs in the size of wolves. They're too tame.” Reggie added.

“It may come as a surprise, but I’ve come to like cooking. Plus…” She pulled away from him. “…you all aren’t people.” She dissented and glided across the room to the door. Before exiting, she turned back, a serious expression painting her face. “You fools are family.” She disappeared moments after the words escaped her lips.

“Well…” Maxwell slapped his knees and got up, “…you might have a chance after all. To be honest, I still doubt she’ll accept, but that declaration’s a good sign, huh?”

“Yeah, I believe so.” Reggie kept on a blank façade. “I’m confident that even if she rejects me, she won’t tell me to scamper off. We have something going on that'll always bind us.”

“Sure, but I’d still hurry up if I were you. Once we leave Briohall, she’ll go full assassin and now, you know, she can walk. Nothing like our journey from Embersummit. She doesn't need our help to get around. She'll scout, she'll hunt, she'll kill. There will be little time for you two.” Maxwell advised him, but he didn’t seem to listen.

“I’ll keep it in mind.” Reggie acknowledged and checked out the window. “It’s almost afternoon. We should go help with the funeral rites. We brought that fate upon Briohall’s men and women. It’s our duty to assist.”

Maxwell nodded. “You don’t need to tell me twice. Let’s go. We’re late already.”

◊◊◊

The city of Briohall, much like most holds close to any mountain, was built against the rocky slopes, its walls created a rectangle with one side being the mountain itself. Through hard and long work, the people had managed to turn the barren land around it into a fertile corner of the world, able to provide for them. As such, they had preferred to adjust their customs.

There had been no burials in Briohall. Instead, the deceased were carried to the edge of the desert, half a day’s journey northeast of the hold, where the Briohallers burned the bodies, letting the ashes become one with the dust of the desert. If an Air Elemental was present, they made the remnants of the folk travel through the air towards the rest of the world.

Being the masterful storyteller he was, Lucian had given them a sense of hope and peace with his narrations of the land as it once had been. The idea the departed were taking their rightful place among the free people was heart-warming, despite the consuming grief. He made the loved ones recount joyful moments in their shared life and it often lifted the spirits of the attendees.

When Maxwell and Reggie left his study, they joined the party carrying the men and women who had laid down their lives on the battlefield. Each had gone to the shroud transporting a soldier in their squads. Out of the eight casualties, Maxwell’s team had had the most, five in total, since they were the ones to come into full contact with the enemy force. He’d taken position in the middle shroud, a woman atop it, disregarding the stench coming from the decomposing bodies around him. Little did it matter, when innocent lives were lost under his watch.

When the convoy reached the gates of Briohall, he felt an Aetheral’s power wash over him. With Lucian wheeled away in front of him by Weston, he figured it was Vivienne and he looked up trying to find her. He needed not search for long. She was standing on the wall with a grim-looking Seraphina and a sobbing Etta in between them. Etta was clutching on Vivienne’s shirt while she rubbed her shoulders.

Vivienne’s stare seemed to note how much the girl abhorred her involuntary actions. “I get it. If she had a choice, she’d never have done this. But it happened, Viv, so be careful around her. Keep Sera away from her.” He thought to her, hoping that it was indeed her that read him. The nod she gave moments later confirmed his hope. He turned ahead and continued his marching rite.

That night, after the pyres extinguished and the grieving citizens returned to their homes, a slim figure sneaked across the floors in the tower of Briohall. The runaway, posture and size indicating it was a woman, kept looking over her shoulder and pulling her cloak tight against her skin, in a frail attempt to hide her creeping in the low light. But she didn’t know her pursuer was most comfortable under the cover of shadows.

“Don’t take another step.” Seraphina warned, an arrow already loaded, bowstring pulled back. The cloaked figure held up her hands and Seraphina fueled the tip of her arrow with flames. “Turn around. Slowly.”

The woman did as told. It was Etta. The darkness storming her eyes prevented Seraphina from lowering her bow. Before she could utter another word, Etta closed her fist and Seraphina first heard the swooping sound of something being shot straight at her, then felt the rocks hit her torso. One barely skipped past the side of her head.

Etta took off, dashing towards the exit, while Seraphina got knocked back. Reggie, Maxwell and a few guards were already running after Etta. Only Vivienne stayed behind to check on Seraphina, her hands already on the scorcher’s shoulders, to assess and fix whatever damage she’d taken. There were scratches across her skin. “Only chest, thankfully. A little lower…”

“I know. Patch me up and let’s go.” Seraphina said struggling to breathe. The knock-back had made her breath catch.

Within moments, they joined the chase after Etta. Vivienne guided through the corridors, following Etta’s mind. They crossed paths with one guard soon. “We lost her, so we split up.” He informed them, sweat brewing on his brow.

“I know where she is.” Vivienne announced and moved on. Seraphina and the patrolman followed close behind. They weren’t walking blindly like the rest, but traced Etta’s steps and soon Vivienne signaled them, they had found her. On the next corner. A dead end.

Seraphina opened her palm, trembling flames gathering at its edges. “Viv, I really need you to remind me why I shouldn’t kill her. Right now.”

“You were right, she was faking, but she’s scared of us.” Vivienne replied fixing her daggers in place. “She’s just a scared, little girl, Sera.”

Seraphina had found Etta’s easy acceptance odd from the start. The very notion to let her out of the shackles was a test. One Etta didn’t pass. Despite the craze behind her amber eyes, she’d otherwise entered a state of serenity, her gaze searching for means of escape. She probably thought no one noticed how she tested the foundation, sending tremors through the cracks of the floor. Seraphina had. Then she’d told Vivienne to suggest Etta stay away from Seraphina. Another test. She failed that one too. She’d smiled.

Seraphina nodded. “If she makes a wrong move, I’m shooting.”

Vivienne nodded. “Okay. Just be sure she’s actually making a wrong move before you do.”

Seraphina gave a nod of her own and they progressed. Seraphina laid her back against the wall and peaked around the corner. Etta was pacing, sneaking glances out the window every now and then. They were on the third floor of the tower, a paved courtyard all around. A fall from that height would either kill her or severely injure her. “She can’t be considering it, can she?”

“She is.” Vivienne replied.

“Etta…” Seraphina spoke evenly. “…I told you we’re not the bad people here.”

The response came without delay. “I heard many things. Why should I believe someone like him?”

“We’re not like him.” Seraphina countered as her fingers lingered on her bowstring.

“You are. You cling to your bow and want to hurt me. Vivienne’s forcing herself into my mind. You’re all just the same!” Etta screamed at them. “I bet those men want to defile me, just like he did.”

“Etta, listen to me.” Vivienne said and tried to walk into her view, but Seraphina stopped her. She went on with her words though. “You’re right. He and I are just the same. Only in nature. He’s an Aetheral, so am I. That’s all that I have in common with him.”

“So you say.” Etta reciprocated.

Seraphina huffed. “And I can assure you the last thing Max or Reggie want is to defile you.” She said and peaked around the corner. Etta was pacing and scratching her head. “They’re good people and we tend to their needs just fine!”

“Sera!” Vivienne exclaimed as silently as she could. “Don’t provoke her!”

“Easier said than done when she’s speaking nonsense!” Seraphina replied emphasizing the last word. Taking a deep breath, she shouldered her bow and stepped around the corner. “I don’t need a bow to kill you. I don’t need weapons. I have all I need” With that, she put alight every torch within her reach in the corridor. “Think about it, if anyone wanted to hurt you… well, we would’ve when you were asleep.”

They stared at each other for a while, calculating each other’s moves. Seraphina stood with her arms crossed over her chest, while Etta was still pacing from one side of the wall to other always keeping her eyes on Seraphina. Etta rubbed her hands together continuously, evidence of her anxiety. She’d been trapped in a corner like a mouse.

“You’re as cold as he. Emotionless. Insensitive.” Etta muttered, but Seraphina said nothing to show her how wrong she was in truth. “You want to win my trust before hurting me. That’s all you can do. Hurt, hurt, hurt.” She kept repeating in a deranged state. “You’re even more sadistic than him. That’s why he wants you alive so bad, isn’t it? A perfect addition to his minions.”

Seraphina raised an eyebrow. She opened and closed her mouth several times, unable to find the right words. In the end, she gave up. “I don’t know how to show you the things you say are...ridiculous, but when you woke up we asked for information on how to infiltrate the Keep and kill him. Why would we ask that, why would I ask that if I was on his side?”

That gave her pause. She shook her head wildly and looked at Seraphina again. “You want to prove yourself to him, by besting him. That, that, that, that’s it. Must be. Yes, he’s invincible. You can’t hurt him. Outwit him, maybe, but never hurt him.”

“How did you...?” Seraphina breathed, shaking her head. “You can’t really believe that? If he’s ruthless, why would I risk my neck like that?”

“You’re arrogant. Vivienne said so.”

“Arrogant, not stupid.” Seraphina said and tried to smile. “It don’t matter though. I’ll leave this city soon. But Etta, you’re dangerous. You killed eight people, injured so many others, me included just minutes before. I cannot leave unless I know you won’t hurt anyone anymore. I have to protect my people.”

Etta faltered. “Protect?”

“Protect. We have to deal with you, one way or the other. I’d prefer not hurt another Elemental, but...” Seraphina sighed. “...you’re right about one thing. I won’t think twice about killing you if you try to hurt anyone else.”

Etta stopped her pacing and peered up at Seraphina. When she previously studied the hands of the assassin, worried of what they might throw her way, she then searched her eyes to decipher the truth.

Suddenly, Seraphina noticed Etta shift her attention to something behind her. She didn’t dare glance behind, for fear she might miss one of Etta’s moves. Etta had also stopped rubbing her hands together and had them rested against her sides. The musk of rock became more prominent, flaring against Seraphina’s nostrils.

She didn’t need Vivienne’s call to act. One moment she took a whiff of the lithic scent and the next, her concealed dagger was flying at Etta, followed by a sprinting Seraphina with another dagger in hand. The thrown knife found its mark in Etta’s eye socket. She fell back, screaming and clutching her head. Before she managed to collect herself and launch an attack, Seraphina was already on top of her and slid her remaining dagger into her heart.

Seraphina shot up and went to the one that ultimately killed Etta. The guard accompanying Seraphina and Vivienne in their search for her. “Why? Why didn’t you just stand down? She was at least considering my words!”

“I heard her stop moving... People said that’s when she started hitting with rocks. I wanted to make sure you’re alright.” He said standing firm, though Seraphina could see he was shaken up. She didn’t remember his face, he must have not been in their make-shift army against Etta’s imperials. That would make it the first murder he’d ever witnessed.

“Sera had it under control. All you did was doom the girl.” Vivienne remarked and went to wrap her arms around Seraphina, who let it happen with no resistance. A few agonizing second later, Vivienne whispered in her ear. “Everything looks good.”

Seraphina sighed in relief and looked at the guard. “Go bring the others. Someone needs to carry her out of here.”

“At once, milady.” He quickly replied and hurried away from the bloody corridor.

Vivienne and Seraphina approached the body and removed both of Seraphina’s knives out of Etta. “Sometimes I honestly hate being right. If it wasn’t for that inexperience guard, maybe we would’ve prevented this death.”

“I don’t know, Sera. The more time passed, the more irrational she became. So many different scenarios passed through her mind… one more improbable than the other.” Vivienne recited looking down pitifully at the girl. “You were her trigger. We should’ve kept you away from her. Maybe then, she would’ve got better.”

Seraphina nodded as tears ran down her cheeks. She had lied. She did think twice about delivering the final blow while she was dashing towards the screaming girl. The safety of her family came first though. “He had her since she was a child. Her whole life, wasted on the whims of one unhinged man…”

“So unfair…” Vivienne trailed off covering the girl’s head with the excess cloth of Etta’s jacket. “But that’s why we fight, right? Save all we can.”

“If I hadn’t insisted I be around for her initial questioning, we could’ve saved this poor soul too.” Seraphina accused herself, but before Vivienne could say anything, they heard loud footsteps approaching them fast. “Here they come.”

When they rounded the corner, Maxwell and Reggie went straight to Vivienne and Seraphina respectively. Reggie noticed the blood covering Seraphina’s shirt and his eyes went wide, worry depicted on his features. Seraphina touched his cheek in reassurance. “Not mine. Everything’s fine.”

He took a deep breath of relief and nodded kissing the inside of her hand. “You were the one to deal with her?”

“Sadly, yes.” Seraphina confirmed. “I know it's not Briohall's custom, but Reg, can you and Max please make sure she’s buried? Let her find peace in her element, her only true companion in life.”

“I doubt the people of Briohall will give us trouble…” Maxwell paused and looked at the rest of the guards. “…if we find a spot away from the city.”

“We’ll make it happen.” Reggie promised. “We’ll go now, before anyone realizes she’s tried to escape and hurt others again. Not good for morale.”

“True enough.” Maxwell agreed. “Sera, you should get cleaned up. In fact, there’s no reason for either of you to join us. We’ll just dig.”

“Yeah, you can pay your respects tomorrow, if you really want to.” Reggie suggested further. Them agreeing was happening more and more.

Seraphina wasn’t inclined to go with them anyway. She had exerted herself too much already. A couple of hours of sleep over the course of two days, with training, a battle and severe stalking her prey were too much. She needed a hot bath and some rest. “Okay. I need to get this blood off me anyway. It’s starting to reek.”

Vivienne surveyed every face, still reading the room. “I guess there’s no reason to come. I doubt you’d let me dig.” Maxwell was already telling the guards to bring a carrier so they could transport the woman’s body into the woods.

“You’re right on that.” Reggie affirmed. He gazed into Seraphina’s eyes with a plead reflected in his own. “Please don’t wait up for me?”

“I can’t make any promises.” Seraphina replied with a yawn. “The nightmares might keep me up…”

◊◊◊

No matter how tired she was, Seraphina could not rest. The moment her eyelids shut, Etta’s face filled her mind. She was used to her victims’ hauntings, but that last kill was the first of someone she considered innocent. A needless death. Ultimately necessary, but it was possible she could’ve avoided it.

After the first couple of times her dreams awoke her, she gave up and wrapped a blanket around herself, before she wandered the tower halls. Her aimless stroll brought her to the kitchen, where she helped herself to some of last night’s leftover stew. She wasn’t surprised when Vivienne entered the room.

“Hunger or insomnia?” She asked grabbing a bowl herself.

“Guilt.” Seraphina answered between bites. “I couldn’t even bring myself to be there when they bury her.”

“Want me to help?” Vivienne suggested offering her hand.

Seraphina shook her head. “Thanks, Viv, but no. I ended a child’s life. I need to feel this. Even if it’s taking away my sleep…”

Etta was no child, but Vivienne didn’t bother correcting her. For she knew what Seraphina meant. “Her life ended long before we came into the picture.”

“That may be, but I’m still the one who killed her.” Seraphina insisted and went to clean up. “Any idea when they’ll return?”

“Already on their way back. Sera…” Vivienne replied and grabbed her hand as she passed by. “…we should wait. You know, before we go after him.”

“I wish more than anyone that we could, but Viv, we have no such luxury. We have to get going. The Shepherds are gathering, can’t stay hidden too long now and Damien’s getting irrational. More innocents suffer because of us. Me.” Seraphina reasoned and took off upstairs without another word.

Once inside her room, she walked to the windowsill and sprawled down, surveying the city from above. The sun was making its timid appearance slowly, so there hardly was any sort of traffic. People were barely starting to rise to get on with their day. The roosters had yet to begin their foul song.

An hour later, Seraphina noticed the gates open and in walked Maxwell, Reggie and a team of guards with shovels in hand and dirt all over them. She waited on the ledge, still wrapped with her blanket, and soon the door creaked open. Reggie tiptoed inside, thinking Seraphina was asleep, until he saw her. “You’re up? You should be resting.”

“Didn’t you ask me to wait for you?” She asked with a sad smile and he walked over to her scowling. “I’m kidding, I tried. I couldn’t sleep.”

“I’ll take a quick bath and we’ll try again. Sounds good?” Reggie suggested and rubbed her knuckles with his fingers.

“Mmhmm, go.” Seraphina agreed. While he picked up some fresh clothes and went to the baths, she gathered herself and slipped under the covers laying on her stomach.

She must’ve fallen asleep, because the next moment Reggie was sneaking under the covers. The sweet aroma of the lavender salts they used in the baths had been what woke her up. “Sorry, didn’t mean to wake you.”

She turned on her back. He’d closed the drapes so the candles were the only source of light in the room. “It’s not your fault. Everything wakes me up tonight. Or rather today…”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Reggie offered, but she shook her head. She’d spent enough time thinking about it while she waited. He understood and with a kiss to her forehead, scooched down the bed. “You said everything’s fine. Did Viv or Lucian check you out?”

“Viv.” Seraphina pushed her fingers into his butterscotch hair. He recently had it closely-cut. “And we’re both okay. Her mark was terrible, she just struck my shoulder.”

He pushed her nightshirt out of the way and touched his lips to her newest scars. “You gave us quite a scare. Getting knocked back like that. Your brother calmed when he saw Vivienne’s touch start to heal you, but I…” he paused and planted one more light kiss, lower, on her stomach. “…I was still going crazy with worry.”

“I told you, Reggie…” She grabbed his cheeks and made him look at her. “…our baby’s fine. One of the reasons I kept waking up, too. First kicks.”

His eyes filled with wonder. “Really? She started kicking?” His hand started rubbing circles on the tiny bump of her belly.

“He did.” Seraphina corrected. Each had their preferences in the gender. “His way of probably telling us he’s okay.”

“Or demanding her mother get some sleep.” He chastised. “We could’ve done it without you, Sera.”

She dragged him up and snuggled close to him. “Probably, but it would tip Max off. He’s already getting suspicious that I refuse to train with anyone other than you and Vivienne.”

“Why not tell him, then?” Reggie asked for the hundredth time.

“I will. Soon. Can’t hide it anymore.” She mumbled against his chest. “You should stick close to me, though. I’m scared of what he’ll do to you once he finds out.”

He chuckled against her hair. “I wouldn’t be too worried if I were you.”

She pulled back and flared up the candlelight so she could look at him. “And why would that be, my love?”

“Well, I’m still in one piece, aren’t I?” He asked and gave her a peck. “If he had no trouble letting me have your hand in marriage, I don’t think he’ll have a problem with our little one. Plus, Vivienne’s been throwing in such suggestions lately. You know, ease him up to it.”

“My hand in marriage?” That woke her up and she sat up. “You asked him for his permission?”

He joined her. “I am a man of honour. I wouldn't propose to you without his blessing. I’d have asked your dad, but you know, he’s in the south, gathering people.” Reggie touched his fingers to his chin contemplating. “Now that I think about it, maybe it’s best. Brenton would’ve burned me alive.”

Seraphina couldn’t help laughing, which only made him smile wider. “Not entirely wrong there. He’d definitely try something.” She composed herself and raised an eyebrow at him, getting serious. “Shouldn’t you also ask me then? Or are you that sure of yourself?”

“When it comes to you, my love, I’m never sure. You’re quite unpredictable. But…” He reached under their bed producing a wooden box, inside two silver bands, plain but the small carved arrow on the inside. “…I have run out of time to make this a little more special and I apologize, but my dear Seraphina, will you marry me?” She bit her lip, scrunched her eyebrows and scratched her cheek as she thought about it, calculated. It wasn’t a decision she could make lightly or in haste. There were issues to address first. She watched, searched in the grey of his eyes for the answers to mend her mind’s troubles. All she came up with was expectation, fear, pain. “You’re killing me here…”

“I know.” She replied, but still gave him no answer. He waited, holding his breath. “See, I’m not sure why you’re doing this.” She pulled back from him. “Just a few days after we met, Tom, an old friend of yours and mentor, told me that you’d once claimed you would never settle down with anyone.”

He cut her off, scooting closer. “Things changed.”

“Exactly. Things changed because I’m having your child. If you know anything about me, you’d know it’s not a good enough reason for me.” She declared placing a hand on her midriff. “So… why are you proposing to me?”

He shook his head and grabbed her free hand. “Do you really need to ask? I want to be your partner and you to be mine.”

“Still not enough. We’re partners already.” Seraphina contradicted him trying to withdraw her hand.

Reggie wouldn’t have it. His fingers grabbed at her jaw and made her look at him. “I want you. First, it was interest, turned into attraction and now it’s become a need. You. You’ve become a desperate need for me. I may not be your equal, but I wish to spend whatever’s left of my life aspiring to your joy. Our little one is the result of that wish, not its reason.” He stared into her self-conscious, hazel eyes. “I’m committed to you. I want to settle down with you. If you only say yes.”

“You’re more than my equal. A better person than I’ll ever be.” She laced their fingers together. “Now, that... is good enough, Reginald. Give me that ring.”

“When I asked your brother’s permission, you weren’t pregnant. Remember when Raine’s pups were born?” She nodded offering her hand. “We were planning to spend some time in the woods, but Lucian told us of our little one. I was going to propose there, but we didn’t go.” He smiled and slipped the smaller of bands onto her left middle finger.

“There’s been plenty of time since then.” She did likewise with him and pulled him near.

“True, but you freaked out with the baby news.” He said and she felt her cheeks get warm. “Thought I’d scare you away if I asked then.” He smiled and rubbed her back. Her sides. One of his palms rested on her stomach. “But now I think you’re as happy as I am about this.”

“You know me well...” She said and laid back, pulling him along with her.

◊◊◊

Seraphina awoke late in the afternoon, while Reggie was in the midst of packing. She was famished. Her stomach growled. He shook his head grinning and dropped everything to follow her downstairs to the dining room. He made his usual small-talk with the workers and Seraphina paid little attention as always. The only part she caught was about Maxwell and Vivienne arranging for supplies since they’d soon embark on their journey.

None spoke of the incident with Etta the night before. It was unlikely the cleaning crews didn’t uncover any blood. Seraphina’s and Vivienne’s attempt to mop the floors had proven futile and they’d only managed to wipe away some of it. It was both a relief Seraphina need not recite the events of the previous night and a vexation. The lost soul deserved more than that.

“You’re scowling. Have you already regretted it?” Reggie asked her rubbing the small of her back. The humorous trace in his voice didn’t let her take him seriously.

She leaned into his touch. The more he rubbed, the more he alleviated her backache. “I just don’t like how no one addresses what happened last night. Even if I don’t want to talk about it.”

Reggie scratched his chin in thought. “You do know you’re contradicting yourself, right?”

“Hardly. I may not want the girl discussed with me, but completely disregarding her… It’s not right. She was as much a victim as any other.” Seraphina explained. “They should be a little more respectful. There were eight funerals last night, when the departed were nine.”

“Would you be this understanding if that man of yours or us were among the eight, Sera? I know I wouldn’t.” Maxwell asked coming up behind her. She tried not to show how much he’d startled her. She also tried to keep his arms from sneaking around her waist to her midriff. “Well, in Reggie’s case…” She slapped his hands, his words giving her the perfect excuse.

“Max, I’d watch my words if I were you. Unless you didn’t notice their fingers.” Vivienne warned Maxwell and came near Seraphina with open arms. “Congratulations. Didn’t I tell you, you fools, she’d say yes? You gotta believe the mind reader.”

“I almost refused, actually.” Seraphina managed to mumble while returning Vivienne’s and Maxwell’s hugs. When they pulled back and she could sit down, she winked at Vivienne. “But he makes good speeches.”

“Can’t argue that, but I honestly thought you’d go for someone who’s… more of a mighty warrior than an eloquent preacher.” Maxwell commented as he extended his hand to Reggie.

Seraphina noticed how his hand trembled. He confirmed what Seraphina had thought. He’d only given Reggie his blessing because he thought she’d reject him. Hearing her, Vivienne nodded behind him.

“You and me both, Max.” Reggie agreed and both received a glare from Seraphina.

“Regardless… welcome to the family. I suggest you stand behind Sera when you tell our father.” Maxwell advised and tried to hide his smile behind a chuckle. “When’s the ceremony?”

“There won’t be one. We have other issues to deal with right now.” Seraphina declared and quickly changed the subject before anyone objected. She wasn’t one to be the center of attention. “Are we fully stocked till the pass?”

Maxwell and Vivienne glanced at each other nervously. He cracked his knuckles and looked at Seraphina. “Well, the horses are ready to go, but here’s the thing. Lucian and Viv heard of messengers on their way to Briohall. They’ll be in the city by nightfall.”

“And that concerns us, because…?” Reggie wondered.

Vivienne continued for Maxwell. “Etta must’ve felt the secret pass and collapsed on their way here. There’s no basher in Briohall to help us get through. The messengers had to sneak across the narrow gap we avoided on our way here.”

“Did the thieves attack them?” Seraphina asked leaning in.

“Seems like it, but we’re not sure. We’ll figure it out when they get here.” She replied huffing.

“As if we didn’t have enough difficulties ahead already.” Reggie grumbled scooting closer to Seraphina instinctively.

“Just another day in this business. Are you regretting your decision, Reginald?” She snickered.

“Hmm…” he seemed to think. “…no, can’t say I do.”

“Hey, newlyweds, can we focus on our impending journey here? You know, preparations and all that?” Maxwell interrupted. “Viv and I have already arranged for our supplies and gathered our things. Once you’re packed as well and the envoy arrives, we can get going.”

“Preferably before another squad comes looking for Seraphina.” Vivienne added sheepishly.

“We left no one to report back of my presence here. You heard the girl. The Emperor spread them out. He doesn’t know where I am.” Seraphina shivered at the thought of what the people possibly suffered wherever she wasn’t found. “So once we’re briefed, we can get going, right?”

“We could, but it’s better to leave in the morning. Ohh, wait…” Maxwell agreed, but stopped himself as a thought came to him. “…are your wolves joining us? If they are, we’ll have to add up some food for them.”

Seraphina and Reggie looked at each other conflicted. “Brawn and Cloud have only just started leaving the den. I don’t think they should.”

“Raine has never done what she should. If we show up packed, she will follow, so the pups will too. Count them in.” Reggie contradicted her.

“We could go without them knowing...” She trailed off and all eyes turned to her.

It was another to oppose her idea then. “And have Raine storm into these halls, teeth bared like the last time you tried to let her roam free, spending a fortnight without visiting?” Lucian asked with a disapproving tone. “Those wolves are not wild. The sooner you accept it, the better for all of us. The panic she raised last time…” Seraphina only nodded in embarrassment.

“We’ll pack and go get the wolves, you get briefed and when morning comes we leave. Sounds good?” Reggie suggested. No one objected and he rose from his seat. “Sera?” She grabbed his extended hand followed his example.

As they walked towards the door, a call came from Lucian, stopping them. “Despite the dire circumstances, I wish to relay my congratulations. It is a shame you want no wedding ceremony. You should indulge into any and all festivities while you still can. But no matter. May you live a long and prosperous life together.”

Both bowed their heads in gratitude, avoiding any other comment on his chastisement. Neither Lucian, nor Vivienne were listening, so Seraphina’s thoughts ran free. “I’d like our chances a lot more, if only it were up to us. Too many variables…”

◊◊◊

Seraphina and Reggie approached the wolf den on foot slowly, while their horses stayed tied to trees several paces away. They didn’t want to alert Raine. It only took a single whiff from her to recognize them, but in the past, when they rushed in on horseback, she had more or so attacked them, in defense of her pups. They wanted no repeat, so to that day, they tied the horses and walked to Raine’s den.

That day they found neither Raine, nor the pups. A brief assessment of the place told them the wolves hadn’t been away long, but with sundown looming near, they were bound to return. There was nothing to do other than wait. Sometime later, they heard Raine’s excited howls and the pups’ cries. The wolves knew they were visiting.

Raine dashed in first and rushed into the open arms of Reggie, who was squatting down to greet her. He was knocked back, laughing as he went down. Her tail waggled continuously and she kept licking his face.

Brawn and Cloud wobbled in later, going for Seraphina. One was as bright grey as his mother with patches of brown gradually making an appearance on his chest and mane. The other was white as the fresh snow. The only other colour was found on his paws, a light shade of black, which only made it seem like they were dirty.

Seraphina stroked both of their backs at the same time, grinning. She had to bend down as the wolves were still pups and their bodies hadn’t fully developed. They barely reached her knee. “Lucian’s right, you’re practically pets.” She cooed.

Raine sat on her haunches and looked between Reggie and Seraphina. “I think she’s figured out something’s different this time.” He said and the wolf's head turned sideways.

“We’re hardly inconspicuous. She knows our travelling gear.” She replied feeding treats to the pups. “Think she’s gonna follow us?”

He whistled. Raine howled back and stood, swirling around. Reggie smiled. “I’m pretty sure that’s a yes.”

The envoy arrived in Briohall earlier than anticipated. When they laid eyes on the city, they spurred their horses on and covered the distance faster. They brought ill news. The Basher-carved pass was no more, as Vivienne and Lucian had deducted earlier. They couldn’t avoid a deviation in their desired path. They had to cross the narrows, where thieves and bandits lied in wait. The envoy had been fortunate enough to avoid a direct fight with them, sneaking past them, but in the end, they had been chased down. They’d lost four men in their attempt to flee. Three days they’d stayed in the gorge.

They brought confirmation on what everyone had guessed about the Emperor after seeing Etta. He’d sent out Elementals, in search of Seraphina. The good news was they didn’t leave ruins in their wake. The Elementals, most reports spoke of bashers and blowers, seemed to be in the same trance as Etta until she’d laid eyes on Seraphina. It was a fair assumption they’d turn wild upon seeing her. They were also accompanied by squads of thirty or more, whom they diffused in whichever city, town or village they encountered.

No one was getting hurt or harassed, but the overactive witch hunt had spread tension in the eight holds, only Dawnfield stood unaffected. Every commoner, whether in league with the Shepherds or not, was becoming more and more agitated. The nobles were creating alliances in plain sight and, as a result, they hindered the workings of the Shepherds. Suspicion ruled the upperclassmen, fear reigned the common folk.

Despite the cons, that fear had earned them several additional members. The offerings of protection, the supplies to the poor and the motivational speeches of the council members had started giving throughout the empire were crucial factors in their endeavors of recruitment.

The envoy was quick to mention both Brenton and Barkley were alive, well and gathering resources, whether it be people or useful information. There was also talk of the scorchers’ plans to take the three major cities of the south, Boatwright, Wallowdale and Ashbourne.

Ashbourne was already theirs. With Clare on their side, everything was in place for the coup. All they needed was a signal and the Shepherds were prepared for the retribution of the empire, sure to come, should things go wrong at any point. The move was instigated long before Bandville was destroyed. Soon after Maxwell and Seraphina discovered Lombard’s betrayal and evacuated Vivienne. His son had been the first in the string of eliminations that had to take place.

Wallowdale was relatively easy to turn over as the reigning Viscount, had long pulled back from the imperial ordeals, opting to stay and rule within his realm in peace. Their ample livestock and fertile soil deemed any reinforcement from the capital unnecessary, while the capital itself didn’t care much about the hold as long as they received the taxes and tributes in their agreement.

Of the three southern cities, Boatwright was the toughest to crack. The assassination of the Viscount’s son Maxwell and Seraphina had performed more than two cycles prior had caused unexpected ripples. The Viscount had cut out all communication with anyone outside the city, Dawnfield included, and that had brought the attention of the empire and a small part of the army on their doorstep.

The people in Hollow Grove seized operations in the area, mindful as to not become the next Bandville. Crookwood stood proof the empire hardly hesitated to smolder anything and anyone in their way.

Despite the difficulties, Boatwright was a city they absolutely needed to conquer. The army, reports called of a force significantly smaller than the massive pile of bodies Maxwell, Seraphina, Vivienne and Reggie had witnessed, stood in the way. But there were plans in motion to excise the substantial drawback. The messengers knew not what those were. Brenton and Barkley hadn’t disclosed.

Lucian was troubled by the reports. The impending violence… it got to him. It was quite obvious. Maxwell and the rest were more or so accustomed to such vehement acts. The twins, especially, were forged in the passion of death and bloodshed. Ruthlessness and resilience were their main assets in their time as roamers.

Reggie had spent a fair amount of time in the army, though he had hardly needed to use his military training. He’d faced more death in his time with Seraphina than altogether in his life.

Vivienne was an entirely different matter. Around people, she hardly cared for any of the kills she or someone else had delivered. It was a necessary evil in the fight against their vicious oppressor, so she said. But every night, behind closed doors, she’d mourn every life cut suddenly and unfairly because of one man’s actions. It was a sight only Maxwell got to witness, the tears, the thrashing in her sleeping, the times she jerked awake, all of it.

Dealing in death had an impact on anyone. Maxwell could not blame Lucian for the disgust at the reports. “It’s time for you to join the war, it seems. I only pray to the Elements you are ready to face him, Vivienne.”

Maxwell still didn’t like the idea only Vivienne stood a chance against the Emperor. He could do nothing to protect her and it was eating him up inside.

“Only time will tell, master Lucian.” Vivienne said taking a bow before the cripple. Maxwell, Seraphina and Reggie followed her example.

“Indeed. May the Elements guard and guide you.” He wished upon them, gently touching each of their shoulders. “Farewell, my children.”

The quartet left Briohall in the morning in the company of their three wolves. They were hardly in any rush, giving Brawn and Cloud the time to keep up. Raine had to chastise them a couple of times when their youthful minds got distracted and they separated from the group the first couple of days, but they got the hang of it sooner than expected.

They rode by the collapsed mountain pass a week later. Only an Earth Elemental could go through it then. When the opening of the gorge was within their sights, they made camp. There was no way they’d go in when they could be stuck inside after sunset. The loss of four messengers was still fresh in their minds. They wanted to be ready and at the least possible disadvantage.

One of the guard rotations brought Maxwell and Seraphina together. It had been a long time since it’d happened. Maxwell couldn’t help noting it. “Remember the last time we were alone? Sort of anyway.”

Seraphina smiled absentmindedly running her fingers over Reggie’s head. “Not really. I don’t keep track.”

He tried to think back. “Must’ve been before… you know, Kremlin. Up on that cave.”

“When you spent the night telling me of what I’d encounter after we split up? You sure failed to mention some things.” She chuckled quietly at first, but got serious again. “So many things have changed since then…”

“Yeah…” Maxwell trailed off looking between Vivienne, Reggie and the wolves. “Hell, I always thought you’d give your entire life to the cause, yet you’re married. I honestly didn’t think that would ever happen.” He whispered. He didn’t add that his life was also dedicated to the cause by association. He couldn’t.

“I know, me neither, but Reggie… I want him by side. I see a future with him…” Seraphina said and jerked a bit. “Anyway, I’m surprised he beat you to the proposal. You always were the one most probable to settle down.”

“He didn’t.” Maxwell grew uncomfortable and started fidgeting.

Her eyes went wide. “Then you and Viv… When are you…?”

Maxwell held up a hand. “She said no.” She gasped in disbelief. “I asked last summer, she refused. Not now she says. She doesn’t want to leave me a widower, in case Damien gets the better of her.”

Seraphina’s mask was on again. Cold, hard, everything she really wasn’t. “Well, we’ll just to make sure that doesn’t happen. We’re good at killing people. After we’re done with him, it’s wedding time.”

“That’s the plan.” He replied with a smile. He couldn’t stop himself from cracking another immature joke. “May even throw an extra ceremony for you two, huh?”

Seraphina scoffed. “Ohh, I’m sure he would love a big ceremony with lots of guests to celebrate our marriage, but not happening. I’m not one to entertain crowds.”

“Isn’t that the truth?” He chuckled and she threw some sparks his way.

“Idiot.” She quickly extinguished them before they touched him.

◊◊◊

Later, when the sun started rising above the fells, they gathered their things and proceeded to the opening of the narrows. They strapped Brawn and Cloud on the women’s horses in case they needed to flee since they might not be able to keep up. Vivienne was on the constant look out. Her training with Lucian had exceeded her time reading to the maximum. She could go all day reading the region with no trouble whatsoever.

“Too many to count fast.” She warned them. “I recognize two. They’re the ones who’d followed us when we were heading to Briohall.”

“Didn’t attack us then, maybe they won’t attack now.” Maxwell tried to seem optimistic.

“The situation has changed. We’re on their turf now.” Seraphina was quick to crush his theory.

“Weapons ready and, Viv, keep reading.” Reggie ordered. He’d taken it upon himself to strategize. Maxwell didn’t mind, he’d always been the one to act. Seraphina was the planner and she seemed to agree with Reggie.

They trotted inside, increasing speed as time went by. Raine was furiously sniffing the air, her mane raised high and teeth exposed. Even she knew there was danger lurking around. The pups had their noses in the air as well.

When they entered a misty gorge, Vivienne stopped them and Raine walked ahead to the edge. Vivienne answered their questioning gazes. “That’s not normal mist. A blower has something to do with it.”

“This is my cue then.” Seraphina said and brought on her horse. Confidence radiated off her whenever she led. She brought fire to her palms and shouted into the mist. “If you wanted to hurt us, you’d shoot us now that we cannot see you. Your curiosity stops you, so either show yourselves or let us pass!”

Nothing happened at first. The mists didn’t dissolve, the horses made no moves and Raine kept sniffing. After a while she bared her teeth to the center of the mist. A man in a dark cloak appeared. “You wield fire.” He simply stated.

“The sun rises every morning.” Seraphina replied. “Any other obvious observations or will you let us pass through?”

“I cannot. It’s not my place to grant you passage.” The cloaked figure said.

“Whose is it then? We need to reach the other side of the narrows.” Seraphina went on unhindered.

Vivienne cut in. “Take us to your Keeper. We’ll seek his approval if you deny us passage.”

Surprise shone in the man’s eyes, but he nodded. “Very well. Follow me and stay your blades.”

The mist lessened. The man walked on, with the company trotting behind him. A boulder rolled aside ahead of him, only a basher could accomplish such a feat, and in he walked. “This is a bad idea, Viv.” Maxwell thought to Vivienne.

“Nothing we can do, Max. They had forty archers on the cliffs, all arrows trained on us. A single step and they’d shoot us down.” Vivienne whispered and they nodded.

The intentional mist kept them from distinguishing their environment. The only thing they could see was the cloaked man. But Maxwell, could feel the presence of water all around him. It took all his willpower not to try anything.

They followed. On and on, until the man stopped before the steps of what seemed to be a temple. “The Keeper will see you now. Dismount and leave your weapons behind. The wolves too.”

“The wolves come with us. They’re volatile when they don’t get their way.” Reggie countered scratching Raine’s ear.

The man didn’t like it, but after Raine bared her teeth at him, he nodded. “Very well. But know that if they misbehave, we’ll put them down.”

“They won’t, but I’d like to see you try.” Seraphina challenged. None chastised her openly, but Maxwell sure wanted to snap at her.

Vivienne was the first to get rid of all her weapons and walk up the steps. The rest followed and the man led them into the temple. They had yet to encounter another person. They could feel them all around, but the mist prevented seeing them. The temple gates closed abruptly behind them, but they didn’t let it startle them. Brawn and Cloud each gave a bark, but otherwise stayed quiet.

Their only encounter with people other than the man was the grand room of the temple, where multiples seats filled the back. In the center, a makeshift throne of sort held their Keeper, also wearing a cloak, but his face remained hidden. Maxwell was analyzing the room, thinking of who the biggest threat was so he could charge if need be. The Keeper was the last in his list.

The Keeper rose from the throne and walked towards them, hands extended. Vivienne gasped and Maxwell’s eyes flew to her. The Keeper threw the cloak back, revealing it was rather a woman. Tears filled her eyes. “Sera… Max…”

“That voice... familiar.” At the sound of his name, he finally really looked at her. “Cannot be…”

He turned to Seraphina, who clutched onto her necklace. Seraphina breathed one word. Enough to shake the very ground they stood on. “Mom…”