Heirs of a Broken Land: Heirs of a Broken Land

1

Cassara shifted her right leg, careful not to make any noise, wincing as the blood flowed back into the numb limb.

If Klar would hurry up and do his rounds, I wouldn’t be having this problem! She exhaled more sharply than intended, her hand rising to her mouth.

Klar turned around, his gray hair and eyes reflecting the light of the lantern he held. Cassara tried to melt between the pillar and the statue, hoping the darkness would be enough to engulf her. Had she known Klar, the captain of the guards, was on duty tonight, she would never have attempted this. He was entirely too watchful and quick to act. She vowed to make her informants pay.

The guard approached the single wooden door, plainly but elegantly decorated, that stood across from where she hid in the shadows. He examined the door intensely. Cassara held her breath and feared she might pass out from the lack of air.

Klar gently tried the handle, finding the princess’ room well secured. If he decided to open the door now and found the princess missing, everything would be lost and Cassara would have to return to her prison.

Deciding that interrupting the princess’ sleep was not necessary, Klar moved on, casting wary glances at the shadows all around him. Cassara was grateful that the hallways of the royal manor of Edoline were kept dark during the night, providing her the stealth she needed.

The guard vanished around a corner and Cassara quickly slipped out from hiding. A small bag was secured to her waist and her skirt flowed around her ankles. She wrinkled her nose at the stale smell down the corridor, wishing she could open every door and window to get rid of the scent of rotting wood wafting down from the attic.

Grazing the stone wall with the tips of her fingers, Cassara walked past two other doors, her steps muffled by the faded carpet. A lone torch flickered from an adjacent hallway further down, but she did not need its light to navigate, using her knowledge of every detail of the stone wall and its sparse decorations to guide her.

Reaching the last door in the hallway, Cassara glanced around one more time to make sure she was alone before reaching into her hair and pulling two pins free. Her long blond tresses cascaded down her back. Holding the handle of the door, she placed the pins in the lock, twisting one to the right while keeping the other firm in the center. The door opened in one swift motion. The scent of sweet cherry blossoms embraced her and Cassara smiled as she entered the room, closing the door and locking it again behind her.

A small candle illuminated the bedroom, its wick flickering as it reached the last of the wax. A bed, only big enough to hold two children, was close to the open window. The only other pieces of furniture in the room were a bookshelf, a desk and a wardrobe. A small figure shifted under the blankets, and Cassara cursed herself for being too loud. The last thing she needed was for the young prince to wake up.

The wind caressed the trees in the orchard outside, blossoms flying into the room, the dancing petals like a soothing lullaby. Soon the young prince’s breaths were once again long and smooth.

Cassara smiled and put down her bag, quickly removing her skirt to reveal the pants she wore underneath for ease of movement. The disguise had served its purpose a few other times she had been caught and had simply pretended that she could not sleep and was going for a walk in the orchard. No one truly believed her, but no one questioned her either. They simply kept a closer eye on her.

Free from her skirt, Cassara tied her hair back again, and donned a small jacket to ward off the cool night air. The candle flickered once again and died, the wick’s smoke leaving the smell of an extinguished flame in its wake. Cassara crossed to the desk, carefully slid the top drawer open and pulled out a fresh candle. Jayden hated sleeping in the dark and she didn’t want him to have to wake up to it. Besides, hiding her clothing under his bed was easier when there was some light.

She quickly lit it and, as she bent down to hide evidence of her passage, her amulet slipped from under her shirt, catching the weak light and reflecting it. Cassara quickly covered the cool metal and tucked it back into her shirt, glad to see the light had not disturbed the prince’s slumber.

Satisfied all signs of her passage were taken care of, Cassara headed for the window. The great cherry tree that graced Jayden’s window had been a blessing on more than one occasion. She expertly grabbed a branch and let herself swing towards the thick trunk as she reached for another branch.

Cherry blossoms glided around her, marking the end of a season. She climbed a few more branches and let herself fall to the ground, the blooms scattering about her feet. Moonlight graced the land, the few clouds in the sky shying away from the moon.

A perfect night, she whispered as she began walking away from the manor, her boots having traveled this path countless times before.

She cast a final glance back to make sure no one was looking in her direction. Aside from Jayden’s small candle, a single light was visible, in the king’s chambers. It was the only room on the second floor, a wooden addition clumsily built onto the original single-level stone building. Through the white curtains she could see the king pacing slowly, his body following the same tired rhythm it had for many years.

Grasped by the familiar regret that always clutched her whenever in the presence of the king, Cassara turned away from his restless sight, concentrating instead on her destination. This escape would do her a world of good.

The path Cassara chose to reach town was always through the orchard, which was not the quickest path, but by far the most beautiful. The trees danced in the wind all around her, apple blossoms clinging when the cherry blossoms were already falling. The wind carried with it the fresh smell of the sea, crisp and refreshing, soon to be joined by the sound of waves striking unmoving earth.

Cassara freed her hair from its restraints, letting it join the blossoms on the wind.

This is more like it! Cassara laughed, no longer afraid of being overheard and stopped.

Quite, a voice said from behind her.

Cassara turned around, adopting a stern look as she faced the man who was following her.

Thanks for warning me that Klar was on duty tonight, Kaden.

Was he? The old guard responded, a smile on his lips, his wrinkled face showing the years that the laughter in his eyes denied.

You can be bothersome, old man. She smiled at him. You know that, don’t you?

Kaden brought up his hands defensively. I only do it with your best interest in mind, princess. He ended with a bow.

Cassara raised an eyebrow.

Besides, Kaden said, standing again with some difficulty. Carsyn wanted to get some rest tonight and I like to make sure he gets little of that.

Carsyn! Kaden shouted towards the shadow of a tree, to be answered by a grunt. Get up, you’re on duty tonight! Another grunt followed.

You can just leave him here, Cassara said. In fact, why don’t you both stay here and rest. It’s not like I’ll be in grave danger in our little kingdom.

It is our duty, my Lady, Kaden said, simply bowing his head. Carsyn, get up or I’ll gut you where you stand, well, sleep. Cassara smiled. She had been hearing Kaden speak that threat for over sixteen years, now.

I’m coming, I’m coming, the gruff voice said from the shadows as the other old guard struggled to his feet and joined them.

Fine night for a walk, princess, Carsyn grumbled as the three resumed walking along the coast, Kaden and Carsyn staying a few steps behind, a position they had assumed when she was just learning to walk and had kept ever since, despite her protests for them to join her.

We should not stay late tonight, my Lady. The prince of Rashim is calling on you tomorrow, Kaden shouted over the sound of the surf.

Cassara sighed and slowed her steps, allowing the two guards to catch up to her. She slipped her arms into both of theirs, making them keep pace with her.

Tell me honestly, Kaden. How desperate is my father to marry me off?

Kaden sighed and lowered his head, shaking it. Carsyn answered before his superior could, however, a slight smile playing on his lips. The king is very desperate to be rid of his disobedient younger daughter, my Lady. He fears that she may find herself in a situation where she becomes no longer marriageable.

Cassara felt her face grow red and elbowed the old man in the ribs, almost sending him to the ground. Carsyn coughed and wheezed out a laugh, before growing serious again.

I believe, my Lady, that your guards are getting old, Carsyn said with a sigh. And that your father would like you to be happily wed before they retire.

Which they will not do as long as your safety is in their hands, Kaden said softly.

Cassara squeezed his arm and continued walking, the two guards silently falling behind her again. Since she’d turned sixteen four months ago, her father had decided it was imperative to find a good match for her, whether to a lord of a prosperous land or to a prince of a wealthy kingdom, it hardly seemed to matter. As long as it was a good match and his youngest daughter was gone, leaving his only son to occupy the throne of the small forgotten kingdom of Edoline.

She looked up past the orchard and onto the farmlands. Edoline boasted one manor that housed an ancient royal family, and one village. The rest of the kingdom consisted of farmland. Edoline was so small that certain lords of Graydon oversaw more property than her father ruled.

The fresh smell of the sea was overtaken by the memory of the rotting pillars of her family’s manor, of the sparse decor and the slowly dwindling supply of candles. Her older sister, Altessa, had struck a good match a year ago by marrying a noble lord’s son from a neighboring country. Those were the last riches Edoline had ever seen.

Cassara reached up and touched some apple blossoms, the velvet of the petals cool against her palm. The few citizens of Edoline worked together to gather the food and to collect outside goods, but it wasn’t enough. But could the entire future of the kingdom really depend on one good marriage?

The kingdom of Rashim was the richest of Graydon, despite its reputation for strict and unforgiving rule. It couldn’t hurt to at least meet with this prince.

It’s the least I can do for my father, Cassara whispered, haunted by the sight of him pacing back and forth in his room.

The eventual meeting slipped from her mind as soon as she heard the laughing voices up ahead in the village. Since it was the only village in Edoline, it was known simply as that, the village. Cassara smiled and quickened her pace, ignoring Kaden’s plea for her to stay close.

The inn rose up ahead, and Cassara felt as light as a falling blossom as she entered into its smoky interior, to be greeted by shouts of welcome.

Cassara waved and smiled as she headed for the chair that Barlos, the innkeeper, was hurrying to place on the small stage. Cassara reached into her bag and felt around for her flute, the wood soft and comforting.

She pulled it free, and the room quickly hushed as the inn’s patrons sat down and prepared to enjoy what had become one of their sole entertainments. It was predicted that it would be a dry summer with weak crops, and rumors of a new war with the West were brewing, so Cassara knew that her people needed all the entertainment they could get.

Kaden and Carsyn walked in, out of breath, and the patrons moved aside to give them room to approach the front. Barlos made two of his patrons change seats so that the guards could sit close to the princess. Kaden thanked him, and Carsyn as he offered her as withering a stare as he could muster. She smiled back.

Cassara held the flute in her hands, her practiced fingers slipping into place with ease. Closing her eyes, she let the music come to her at its own pace, the sound of her flute filling every corner of the inn.

She let herself be carried away by the music, every note invoking a memory or a desire, every melody an ache that had lived within her ever since she had finished carving the instrument with her own hands. An ache that only seemed to grow with time, even as the memories grew dim as she kept telling herself that time healed all wounds.

She played until all memories vanished and she was left with only hope—hope for her people, for her kingdom, and most of all, for herself. She did not know how long she played, losing herself entirely until the music stopped coming to her, the melodies vanishing as her fatigue grew, and she ended on a mournful air, holding the final note until it died with her breath.

She opened her eyes, realizing that tears had fallen down her cheeks and that silence had fallen in the room. Several of the men and women, all people whom Cassara knew, had tears glistening on their cheeks in the candlelight as well. The only ones who were not paying attention were her two guards, Kaden’s chin resting on his slowly rising chest, Carsyn’s head fully fallen on the table.

Cassara felt heat rise to her face. She offered them an apologetic smile.

That was supposed to be cheerful.

The tension broke with her jest and talking and laughter filled the inn once more. Well, at least she had fulfilled her goal of making them laugh.

When will we see you again, my Lady? Barlos asked as he approached her, bowing his head respectfully.

Soon, I hope, Cassara said with an unconvincing smile.

If she were soon to be wed, it might never happen again.

Barlos merely nodded. Shall I room these two for the night? he indicated the two guards with a quick motion of the head.

Please. Kaden will be furious for falling asleep on duty, but I think my guards have well-earned their rest. Cassara was surprised at the sadness she felt in her voice. Was she already bidding farewell to her land and her people?

I’ll send two of my men with you, Barlos said, looking around for some free staff.

Cassara placed her hand on his shoulder. Thank you for the offer, but I’m sure I’ll be fine. Besides, she added in a whisper, I think I would prefer to walk alone tonight.

Barlos seemed uncomfortable at the suggestion, but he nodded nonetheless, bowing awkwardly as he returned to the bar.

Cassara tucked her flute away and exited the inn, the patrons lowering their heads respectfully as she passed by. They knew her well, the youngest daughter of King Alexavier, but still they did not approach her or speak with her in the same way they did amongst each other.

She did not know if it was because they were intimidated by royalty, even if that royalty played music for them, or if it was simply because they did not want to get attached to someone who was obviously just passing through their lives. As she stepped into the fresh night air and avoided the main road to cross through the orchard once again, Cassara could not decide which reason made her feel worse.

Or more alone.

The clouds covered the moon, leaving Cassara with little light by which to navigate. She cursed silently for letting herself get caught in her music and not leaving earlier. But it had felt so good to be free, if only for a moment. The sea shimmered as the clouds parted from the moon once more, only to be quickly covered again.

Cassara walked silently, brooding over the day’s events. It was getting harder and harder to escape the manor now, since her father had doubled her security. If it wasn’t for Kaden’s and Carsyn’s help, she knew she would never escape to visit the land and play her music for her people.

Of course, the only reason they agreed to it was so she wouldn’t run away on her own, making their lives difficult. She kicked a rock and watched it roll before her.

Her planned escapes were best for everyone concerned, really. She was still able to do what she loved, and her guards still knew her whereabouts. When they didn’t fall asleep, anyways. And she knew that were she ever to run away, something she never seriously considered doing, Kaden and Carsyn would be made to pay, and they were like family to her.

All they needed was a good retirement, which they refused to take as long as she was under their care. She exhaled loudly into the night and filled her lungs with the fresh sea air.

The sound of her breath filled her ears before she slowly released it. At that moment, her ears felt empty and ached for sound. No cricket sang. No owl broke the night with its haunting cry.

The wind had died down, so not even a leaf rustled, and no wave struck the cliffs. The apple blossoms were eerily still as they caught what little light the moon offered.

A pungent smell overtook the air, sending a shiver through her entire body. Her steps faltered as her stomach lurched.

Cassara looked back towards the village. She was halfway to the manor.

She cast another wary glance about her, trying to convince herself the smell came from the sea. Perhaps a whale had perished. But she knew that it was not the season for whales to be migrating, nor was there any wind to carry the smell so quickly and efficiently.

Cassara hastened her steps. The orchard was starting to feel like uncharted territory to her.

The sound of a twig breaking shattered the stillness. Cassara stopped and looked towards the dark trees. The weak moonlight revealed nothing.

Kaden? she whispered, trying to summon the courage to continue walking.

It can’t be Kaden, you fool! He’s too slow to catch up to you!

She bit her lower lip and forced herself to keep moving. Another noise broke the night, this one louder, like a growl. But it sounded nothing like the few wolves that frequented the area near the borders of Kosel.

Her hands numb, she fumbled for the dagger she kept at her waist, at Kaden’s insistence. The weight felt inadequate in her hand but she was still grateful for the presence of a weapon.

A figure moved within the woods, barely ten feet from where she stood. She backed away quickly, towards the cliffs, before thinking better of it. The air around her turned cold, and Cassara wished she could be anywhere but here, alone at night.

The growl grew louder and the creature came closer. Something suddenly burned against her chest, and Cassara touched her mother’s amulet. Her heart raced below it, the metal warm on her flushed skin.

Come out! Her scream fell weakly into the night. Come out and face me! She screamed again, this time with more force.

As if she had recited the words to some great spell, three creatures emerged from the woods. Something in their clunky walk, crooked posture and guttural sounds led her to believe these were not mere thieves. Cassara gasped and dropped her knife as the moon broke free of the clouds.

If they had been human at one point, some force had robbed them of any grace and warmth. Their faces bore human features, now twisted and grotesque. Skin tight against bone and muscle, tattered clothing clinging to them, veins dark red and blue, pushing against the greying skin. Their movements were not quite human, like something else moved their limbs. Hands like claws. Teeth like daggers.

Despite all of that, it was their eyes that terrified her the most. Deep black, bottomless wells riddled with grief and deep yearning. But hatred as well, and in that instant Cassara knew that she could not fight these creatures.

She had to run or she would die. Her chest burning more intently, Cassara was running before she had even realized her feet were moving, toward the manor. Her breath became ragged and fear robbed her of it while pushing her to go faster.

She heard something behind her, but dared not look back. More twigs snapping, feet falling on the earth, grunts. They were chasing her! How could these creatures even be capable of running with their misshapen bodies!?

A creature knocked into her. She kicked it off and began running again before she fully fell. The second one came shortly afterwards, and this time her luck did not hold out. She stumbled hard, her left arm folding under her body, her face scraping the earth and her legs flying above her.

Strong, leathery hands grabbed her and turned her onto her back, pinning her down. Cassara’s head swam but she forced herself to stay conscious, the smell almost more than she could bear. One of the creatures was on top of her. Its teeth, still surprisingly white in contrast to the rest of its body, were sharper than any wolf she had ever seen. Cassara fought weakly as dizziness overcame her, but her limbs were paralyzed by fear.

It was going to eat her!

The creature’s head lowered towards her. There was no hint of victory flickering in its eyes, only the same look of pain. A sound escaped Cassara’s lips, a useless protest against the destiny fate had provided her this night.

Teeth met her neck and she screamed more out of fear than pain. In that instant, the night sky exploded with light, and Cassara wondered if the moon had come from the shadows, or if she was joining her mother in the Afterfate.

A scream jerked her back to her senses, and she realized that the creature had fallen off of her and was writhing in agony. Cassara sat up, searching the origin of the strange light, a light that kept the other two demons at bay.

Looking down, she saw a glow coming from her chest. Slowly, warily, she reached inside her tunic and pulled her mother’s amulet free.

The metal that had been dull all her life suddenly glowed brilliantly white. It was warm, but it did not burn her. Its light reached deep within the orchard, casting dark shadows as far as the manor.

But the other two creatures seemed unaffected by the light, except for needing to crouch and cover their eyes protectively. Summoning what little courage her bewildered mind had left, Cassara resumed walking towards the manor, holding the amulet protectively in her hand.

She only took a few steps when, without warning, the light vanished. Cassara stopped and stared at her amulet. Couldn’t the light have flickered first and given her fair warning?

She looked up to see the two creatures already straightening, their teeth bared for the kill or to avenge their fallen comrade. Her legs would not move.

Maybe if she stood her ground, the amulet would stop them a second time. But her arm refused to remain extended. Her whole body tingled with deep fatigue and no more power emanated from the metal.

She forced her knees to stay straight, refusing to let them buckle below her and leave her prostrate on the ground, ripe for the picking. She was still a daughter of the House of Edoline and if she was to die in battle, she would at least try to face death standing.

The two creatures surrounded her, taking their time, apparently feeling that she would not try to escape. Cassara tried to keep her head high, but tears were soon clouding her vision and she closed them, concentrating on at least remaining standing.

She realized she had stopped breathing. Sweat poured down her back, and every sound became her enemy, every small sensation against her skin foretold incoming death.

The smell of the creatures grew stronger. She knew they were now right beside her, and she was about to die, alone, in the orchard of her youth.

Then someone screamed: Get down! A flash of light broke the darkness.

Kaden? No, it was a woman.

I said get down! The woman screamed again. Cassara felt her knees easily give way as she threw herself to the ground, willing to trust this last chance at life. She looked up, to see one creature fallen, and a woman wielding a sword expertly against the second one. The sword flashed with light every time it met the creature, which soon lay dead, the smell of charred flesh slow to spread in the windless night.

Stunned, Cassara remained seated, looking up at the woman, who was cursing softly. She was tall, which was about the only feature Cassara could make out in the dark night.

Ruined my last good shirt, the woman grumbled as she approached Cassara. She struggled to get to her feet to thank the woman properly.

Thanks, she said, her voice barely more than a squeak. The woman nodded and offered Cassara her water skin, which she accepted gratefully, drinking deeply.

You know you’re bleeding, right? the warrior said casually as Cassara handed her back the skin. Her hand automatically went up to her neck, feeling the warm blood in the shallow wound. She could deal with it back home.

What were those things? Cassara asked, looking back at the corpses of the creatures, her hand shaking as she pointed to them.

Eloms, the woman said as she cleaned her blade and sheathed the sword on her back.

Eloms? Cassara repeated, not recognizing the term.

The woman nodded. Where do you live?

The manor, up ahead, Cassara said, not caring if the woman knew she was the princess. Edoline was not worth anything to anyone, and so neither was its royalty.

The woman’s eyebrows shot up. The royal manor? What’s your name?

Cassara was too tired to care if the woman intended to kidnap her after all. At least she was fairly sure the warrior wouldn’t try to eat her.

Cassara Edoline, she said, a twinge of pride returning to her voice. It might be a small kingdom, but it was one to be proud of nonetheless.

That explains a bit, the woman said, looking contemplative.

And your name? Cassara snapped. She didn’t enjoy being taken at a disadvantage by so many events in her own land. Surely she had the right to know what was happening! The warrior grinned at her, apparently amused by Cassara’s outburst.

Avarielle, was all the woman offered. You can head home, now. You’ll be fine.

Without another word, Avarielle walked away, towards the cliff, the moon breaking free of the clouds once more, its light reflecting on the tall woman’s auburn hair. Cassara watched her walk a few steps, tempted to follow her and find out more about these Eloms. But one look at the burnt, twisted bodies that had almost eaten her made her consider otherwise.

Without further hesitation, her legs feeling numb and clunky, Cassara did her best to continue walking.

By the time the moon clouded over a few moments later, she was running.

2

Wake up, my Lady," Emala’s voice broke the silence, followed immediately by light as the curtains were tied back. Cassara grunted and rolled over, stuffing her face in a pillow. Her cheek burned as the soft fabric rubbed against it.

Cassara sat up, stunned by its roughness. Then she remembered the events of the night before, the creatures’ dark eyes haunting her still. She raised her hand to feel the roughness where she had fallen.

What’s wrong? Emala asked as she hurried to her mistress’ side. The older woman’s face flickered from concern to anger in a single instant.

You were out again last night, weren’t you? Emala asked, her eyes scrutinizing the scratch on Cassara’s cheek. I might have known! Who else would have had a bath during the night, and for what other reason?

Cassara shook her head to fend off the woman’s angry gaze. Emala continued: You know you shouldn’t do this, not anymore, not as your father’s trying to find you a husband!

Emala took a deep breath, her face losing some of its redness. Her eyes flickered and suddenly they were filled with concern again.

You weren’t attacked, were you? She turned from red to white.

No, Cassara answered calmly, still amazed after all this time at Emala’s ability to jump from thought to emotion in a split second. On any other morning it might have amused Cassara, but today she simply found it disorienting. Her mind was still groggy and she needed time to think on what happened last night.

Emala shook her head and moved to the small vanity bearing Cassara’s older sister’s rejected cosmetics. Choosing a lighter tone, Emala compared it to Cassara’s fair cheek. Her eyes lit with victory.

Perfect. It’s sunny today, and we want you to look your best for the prince! A smile broke out on the maid’s face, the wrinkles on her still-young skin a testament to an emotionally charged life. Although only ten years older than Cassara, she could easily have been mistaken for her mother.

Prince? Cassara barely managed to say through a yawn as Emala applied the cold makeup to her sensitive skin. She was glad she had had enough forethought to wear one of her light scarves around her neck. Emala would have fainted at the sight of the wound.

Another disapproving glance. Yes, of course, princess. Prince Dayshon of the Kingdom of Rashim. He hasn’t much time, since an emergency council was called this morning by the Circle. But he’s still staying to meet with you, and here you are, sleeping the morning away. You’ve only got an hour, at most!

What emergency meeting? Cassara asked while grabbing her brush and beginning to brush out the multitude of tangles. The golden braid she had quickly thrown together after her bath had apparently been too quickly thrown together.

Emala ignored the question, instead concentrating on Cassara’s sparse collection of fine dresses, all much past their prime and long out of fashion.

Blue should do, the woman said happily, holding out a dress Cassara despised. No woman should ever have to fit into anything that was smaller than her.

Emala, what meeting? Cassara asked again more forcefully, wincing as she tugged at the knots in her hair.

The one that will take him away from you soon! He’s such a nice young man, too. Only a few years older than you, I’d say! Emala answered, obviously more interested in Cassara’s wardrobe than politics.

What meeting? Could it have anything to do with these Eloms? Cassara thought, her brush strokes slowing.

She jumped as a knock came at the door. Cassara was up and almost at the door before Emala caught up with her and covered her with a robe.

Cassara threw the door open. Emala sighed heavily behind her.

Captain, Cassara said as Klar appeared before her. She was glad the wound on her face was already covered.

My Lady. He bowed at the waist. A woman is here to see you.

And you felt the need to tell me this personally? Cassara snapped, annoyed at all the interruptions that were happening. She needed time to sit alone somewhere and think.

If Klar was offended, he did not show it.

She seemed dangerous to me, so I approached her myself, Klar said, his upper lip twitching as he looked at Emala’s annoyed look, the blue dress still hanging from her arm. And the rest of the staff seems preoccupied with other matters.

What does this woman look like? Cassara asked.

Tall, short red hair. She says she has something to return to you.

Thank you, captain. She is a friend, but thank you for your concern. He bowed and took his leave, suspicion still in his eyes.

Let him think what he will, Cassara thought, closing the door.

Emala’s tension seemed to break as she clearly imagined Cassara would now get ready. It returned immediately as Cassara crossed the room and quickly threw on a simple beige dress.

You can’t wear that to meet the prince! Emala gasped.

Of course not, but first I’m going to meet my friend, Cassara said as calmly as possible. Help me tie this at the back, please, she said, placing herself in front of Emala, who was turning a shade of purple.

Emala, I’ll only be a moment, and then I promise I shall meet this Prince Dayshon and let him sweep me off my feet and carry me to his large and rich kingdom to bear him many heirs, Cassara said in one breath. But first let me take care of this.

Emala grunted as she finished tying the dress. Cassara turned to face her and hugged the woman.

Knowing my friend is waiting will bother me, my dear Emala, and I wish to be at my best for his highness. Cassara was surprised to see Emala soothed by her words. Were she in her place, she would have hit her upside the head and forced her into the too-small dress.

Very well, my Lady, Emala said, bowing slightly. Then, her voice taking on the strict tones of a mother dealing with a disobedient child, she added: But if you’re not back here within ten minutes, young lady, I’ll have the guards drag you back.

Cassara did a quick mock bow to the maid before slipping from the room. Klar had not specified where the woman would be, but she guessed it would be in the main courtyard, located at the front of the manor.

Cassara descended the steps with little grace, grateful that her father was not a witness to what he would certainly call a plain and immodest display of rebellion. She opened the main door and walked into the courtyard, the prospect of meeting the prince in her current attire tugging at her mind.

She spotted the tall warrior woman from the previous night.

Her mind was still haunted by dark creatures and moonlight.

Princess, Avarielle greeted her with a small nod of the head, not bothering to rise from under the tree that shaded her. Cassara returned the nod, approaching the warrior warily.

The sword that had flashed into the night was strapped to her back in an old scabbard. The sword was the only visible weapon aside from a long knife attached at her waist. She was plainly dressed and Cassara doubted the woman had cleaned herself in at least a week. Her hair shone red only in direct light and was short and slightly uneven. Cassara guessed it had been hacked off with a knife and not scissors.

The woman, Avarielle, did not seem concerned or intimidated in the least by her surroundings. Kaden and Carsyn were nowhere in sight, but Klar and another guard, Gragor, stood watch nearby, their weapons plainly displayed in an obvious attempt at intimidation. Avarielle paid them no heed, although Cassara doubted they had escaped her attention.

Avarielle seemed to grow amused by the intensity with which Cassara scrutinized her, and she came lazily to her feet. The two guards came closer.

I guess it’s hard to get a moment’s peace around here? she asked casually, beginning to walk among the courtyard’s trees. Cassara followed, annoyed that the woman showed such little respect. The trees were old and tall, but they had been planted apart so that the guards could always keep an eye on the royalty. She saw Klar and the other guard separate and follow on different sides.

Ignoring Avarielle’s earlier question, Cassara asked, What are Eloms? Her hands rose to her shoulders by instinct, and she was disappointed to find no shawl with which to ward off the late spring air.

You certainly don’t waste any time with questions, do you? Avarielle grinned.

Cassara shrugged and lowered her voice. Thanks again for last night. But what were those things?

Do you really want to know? Avarielle asked, stopping so suddenly Cassara almost walked into her. She turned and looked down into Cassara’s eyes. The princess forced herself to stand her ground.

Yes, she whispered, with none of the fire that seemed to burn in Avarielle.

Good. Avarielle seemed relieved. There’s a large nest on the cove, and I need your help to destroy it.

Cassara’s mouth opened once, then twice, but before she could speak, a young voice interrupted them.

You’re from the West, aren’t you? Cassara turned in horror to see her little brother, Jayden, standing there. Klar hovered nearer with each passing second. Cassara hoped he hadn’t heard them. From the look of wonder in Jayden’s eyes, she doubted he had.

Cassara was about to reproach him for sneaking up and for being so rude, but Avarielle spoke first.

Why do you say that? Avarielle asked, diverting her full attention to Jayden.

Because when I was a kid, Jayden said, and Avarielle took on a serious air, obviously trying not to laugh. Jayden continued, his voice growing authoritative as he was being taught to be, as future king of Edoline. I heard stories of the red-haired demons of the West. So I saw your hair and I figured you must be one of them.

Cassara’s eyes grew wide with shock, but Avarielle’s laughter broke the tension. She wiped tears from her eyes before speaking.

You have a good sense of deduction, young prince, she said, giving him an exaggerated bow. But you should be careful who you call a demon, she ended with a wink. Jayden seemed taken by her, and he smiled up at her, losing his grown-up persona and becoming a twelve-year-old boy again.

You should get back to your lessons, my prince, Klar said, and Cassara noticed his hand was on his sword and he was substantially closer. Avarielle ignored him.

Maybe you can tell me stories later, Jayden said, his eyes wide with the hope of hearing tales of the wild, barely charted lands of the West.

I promise I’ll tell you the best stories you’ve ever heard, Avarielle said, and Jayden left, pleased with the encounter.

Cassara grabbed Avarielle’s arm and began walking with her, away from Klar. The warrior did not protest, a wide grin still on her face. Although Cassara was curious as to Avarielle’s origins, she felt there were more important matters at hand. Cassara could learn of her origins later, when she fulfilled her promise to Jayden. Hopefully after Cassara had a chat with her brother about diplomacy.

First, I’m so sorry. He obviously shouldn’t have told you those stories.

Avarielle shrugged. Seems to me he probably just shouldn’t have heard them in the first place.

Cassara flushed and bit her lips, then nodded. The warrior examined her as though she had all the time in the world, which only made Cassara more nervous.

You’re right. She paused. About that, anyway. She forced words out through her dry throat. I mean, you want me to walk into a nest of those things?

Yes.

You’re joking, right? Cassara laughed nervously.

Avarielle shook her head. Your magic works against them, so you should be fine. Besides, she added, raising an eyebrow, surely the princess of such a fine kingdom has been trained to defend herself against possible assailants.

Heat rose to Cassara’s face.

I can defend myself against human assailants, she said, fighting to keep her voice low so that Klar would not overhear. But those things weren’t human. She then took a step closer to the warrior, closing the gap between the two. "And this kingdom may be small, but it is a very fine one."

Avarielle kept her eyes locked on the princess’. Cassara was beginning to wonder if she had gone too far. She had seen the woman’s fighting skills last night, and knew this was no mere mercenary. Could Klar come to her aid quickly enough? She wanted to look about to see where he now stood, but did not want to be the first to break eye contact.

After a few moments, Avarielle grinned and laughed. You’ll be fine! Just stay angry like that. Believe me, magic answers better to emotion than cold logical appeal, no matter what the Circle wants us all to believe. She practically spat out the last few words.

She continued without giving Cassara the opportunity to speak. Meet me two hours after sundown tonight, where we met last night. Be very quiet, and come armed.

Avarielle reached towards her sword. Cassara heard Klar hurrying near, drawing his own weapon. The warrior did not slow her movement as she pulled free a dagger. Cassara felt heat rising to her face. It was hers, the one that she had lost last night.

Klar, calm down, Cassara said to him, holding up her hand. Klar stopped, as did the other guard who was approaching from behind the trees. They did not sheathe their swords.

A gift of friendship, Avarielle said as she handed the knife to Cassara, performing a perfect curtsy in the process.

Thank you, friend, Cassara said, forcing herself to smile as she followed Avarielle’s lead. She hoped Klar would not recognize the dagger as hers.

Until next time, Avarielle said, locking eyes with Cassara for only a moment before walking out of the courtyard. She did not once acknowledge the guards or their drawn weapons.

An odd gift, Klar said as he approached.

Cassara did not turn to face him, knowing he would see the lie on her face.

But a practical one, captain, Cassara said. Now if you will be so kind as to excuse me, I have to get ready to meet the prince.

Perhaps I could store this...gift in our armories, my Lady, Klar said before Cassara could take another step.

Thank you, captain, she said, beginning to walk away at what she hoped was a normal pace. But I will take care of it. It’s on my way.

She fumbled to keep the knife low, so that Klar wouldn’t see it again and recognize it. If he knew she had left the manor last night, he would surely tell the king, and then Cassara would be shipped off to the nearest Lord’s son before she could even breathe a word of explanation.

But the armory isn’t on the way to your room, Klar called after her, his voice gruff in the quiet courtyard.

I know the way to my room, captain, Cassara replied coolly. But I wish to take some fresh air before I meet this prince.

She did not look back, but she knew that Klar was not fooled by her poor act.

So be it, Cassara thought as she walked away, knife clutched tightly in her white hand. There were more important things to worry about now than Klar’s suspicion.

All she needed was one more night, and she would know all that Avarielle knew of these Eloms.

She hoped she would live to tell her father.

The second courtyard was even quieter than the first. Cassara carefully looked around her before entering it. She was pleased to see that Klar and the other guard were no longer following her, apparently deciding that with Avarielle’s departure, she was now safe from harm.

This courtyard, the Courtyard of Travelers, was the one she loved the most, though she visited it the least. Flowers were scattered about the grounds, various shades already beginning to bloom, others waiting for the warmth of summer before appearing. A small fountain stood at the center of a pond in the back of the courtyard, a beheaded horse regurgitating water from its stone neck. The head had been carried away years ago, and that had been the only attempt made to beautify it.

Rocks leading to a now overgrown gap in the fence could still be seen through the tall grass, the old road that Cassara had traveled so many times with her mother, during happier times. Cassara felt her grip on the knife loosen. She wished she had her flute with her, and that she could simply sit here and play all day until the sun had set for two hours.

She walked towards the fountain on the familiar path.

She stared at the horse, glad she did not have to entertain anyone in this place of memories. The courtyard was now mostly kept as a memorial. Visitors were shown to the Courtyard of Stars, by far the most beautiful in the manor.

As Cassara looked away from the gurgling fountain, she saw an outline in the cedar fence. Someone was standing there, observing her.

Who are you? Cassara asked, her grip tightening around the knife. The figure did not move.

Show yourself or I shall call the guards, Cassara said, hoping she sounded and looked threatening enough. After facing the dark, misshapen creatures last night and waiting to face them again, Cassara felt little fear at the sight of this figure. She hoped that would not be her downfall.

The figure took a few steps forward until it reached the sunlight. A woman stood before Cassara, wearing a simple white robe adorned only by a crimson circle above her heart, perfectly matched to the color of her cloak. Her hair contrasted the robe, the raven locks tied back only by a leather band. It is a pleasure to meet you, princess, the woman said, nodding her head in respect. It seemed very few people knew how to properly curtsy of late. Since the woman was from one of the most powerful organizations in Graydon, Cassara was not about to point out the lack of manners.

A pleasure to meet you as well, Cassara said, wondering how the woman had known she was the princess. Wearing a simple robe and carrying around an unsheathed knife were not exactly the marks of royalty.

I did not realize my father had visitors from the Circle today, Cassara said, studying the woman closely. She couldn’t be more than a few years older than Cassara, yet she seemed so cold. Could her presence have anything to do with the meeting that had been called?

Your father was kind enough to grant me a last-minute audience, since my presence was not announced.

Cassara nodded. The woman was examining her very closely. Cassara shifted her feet and wished she could put the knife down, since her hand was becoming too clammy to hold it well.

I shall leave you, then, and wish you the best of luck, Cassara said, feeling heat rise to her head, as though a small fever had been kindled. She took a deep breath and forced a smile, feeling the heat already dissipating.

Very well, the woman responded, giving her a small nod.

Cassara walked away. At this rate, she would never reach the prince in time. The sun was almost directly overhead and he had urgent business to attend to. She hoped he would be gone and she wouldn’t have to stop breathing to fit into the blue dress.

Until our next meeting, may your steps be steady, the woman whispered, barely loud enough for Cassara to hear.

And may your thoughts be heavy, Cassara whispered back the traditional Circle saying. She turned around to make sure that the sorceress had heard her reply and would not believe her uneducated, but the courtyard stood empty, the only sound the gurgling water bleeding from the horse’s neck.

The cliff face spread before her, majestic, mysterious, and filled with darkness. Avarielle squinted her eyes as she looked up, a vain attempt to block out the midday sun.

Every crevasse represented a lurking danger, every dark patch an Elom waiting to attack. Her left hand rested on her long knife, her right hand itching to hold the reassuring weight of her sword, an urge that she resisted. The magic of her blade would only confirm what she already knew—a large nest was in the area, midway across the cliff, deep within a cave she hoped was only accessible through the entrance she was currently staring at. It was the largest nest she had ever encountered, and she intended to bring a princess, of all people, into it.

But she had little choice. Times had been changing of late. Eloms were settling closer to villages and were increasingly bolder in their attacks. Last night had only confirmed what Avarielle already knew. They weren’t cautious anymore. They’d kept coming even after one of their own had been killed by the princess’ magic, a magic she hoped could help her this night.

To think, Avarielle thought, looking towards the entrance of the cave. There was a time when they were impossible to find except through my magic, and even then, I had to hunt them down to kill them.

Avarielle sighed and shook her head. She needed to clear her dark thoughts and get some rest. She had traveled for two days without rest, and using her magic last night had robbed her of the third day she could have otherwise enjoyed.

Pulling her gaze away from the cave entrance, Avarielle climbed the cliff and planned their entry for the night, when the tide would be too high to take this route.

Elihor! Avarielle swore as sharp rocks dug into her palm, causing her to bleed. The noise was lost as the surf hit the cliff below. She wondered how the fair, soft-skinned princess would handle the climb.

Another worry for tonight, Avarielle thought as she pulled herself up by the orchard, the white flowers shining in the sun, casting deep shadows between the trees. A perfect place to nap.

I hope she knows what she’s doing. Avarielle wasn’t sure the princess had even known how to use her magic last night, but she was gambling that she would this night. She guessed the princess wouldn’t have accepted otherwise. At least she hoped.

Eli, who cares about the princess! she mumbled as she entered the orchard. "I hope I know what I’m doing!"

She fell ungracefully under a tree, inhaling the apple blossoms’ soothing aroma, her skin cooling in the shade. The soft grass beckoned her and she heeded its call, unsheathing her sword and holding it in her right hand as she lay down.

She felt the familiar warm sensation of magic course through her arm. Avarielle raised her head slightly, knowing she would see nothing, knowing that the magic was only responding to the Eloms hiding in the darkness below her.

From where she was, she could easily see where they would come up from the entrance, and they never came up until well past midnight, when the sun’s rays had been cooled from the land.

There is only one exit, she whispered, looking towards the overhang, repeating the words several times. I’ve checked this place several times today, she thought as her fingers stroked the pommel of her sword.

It was still a long time before she slept.

The Courtyard of Stars loomed before her, the vision holes installed on top of the manor visible above the tall edge. Each of these holes was a gateway through which to view the most important constellations, hailed as a feat of astronomical science 472 years ago, when the monarchy was formed in Edoline and the manor expanded in an attempt to make it look regal. By far the greatest attribute was the main vision hole which stood at the North End of the manor, where at midnight exactly, gazers standing on the center markings of the courtyard could see the most important constellation of all: the Lost Lovers.

On nights Cassara could not escape the manor, she would spend hours on various markings in the courtyard, playing her flute, following the celestial dance as the various clusters journeyed through the sky. Today, however, she lingered at the threshold of the courtyard, the knife in her hand heavier with each passing second.

She had originally intended to pass through the secret passage hidden in the cedar hedge of the Courtyard of Travelers, but she did not want to reveal its existence to anyone, especially not to an outsider from the Circle. Her mother had shown her the way when she was very young, and she doubted many others knew of its existence. She intended to keep it that way. Of course, this now meant that her only alternative to crossing this courtyard was to go back and face Klar, giving him the chance to positively identify her knife, which would undoubtedly result in her being shipped off with the prince that very afternoon.

And the warrior Avarielle would be left waiting for her in the dark, counting on a magic Cassara was not certain she could deliver. She hesitated in indecision and doubt. Perhaps immediate marriage wouldn’t be so difficult to withstand. Before she could even begin to convince herself, images of the Eloms flooded her mind, and this time, instead of fearing them, she clung to them.

Cassara took a deep breath filled with the scent of cedar. The prince would have more than likely been left here to wait for her. Were she to encounter the prince, would he even recognize her, dressed as she was, carrying a knife in her hands? Her grip on the knife loosened and a grin played on her lips. He might recognize her afterwards, but that would only encourage him to run back to his kingdom and never mention the princess of Edoline again. And then she could reach the armory and be rid of the treacherous weapon.

She followed the main stone path. Usually, she would take the time to admire the smooth symmetry of the courtyard and its diverging stone paths, which lead to marked areas where gazers could quietly look up towards the constellations. But today she often looked over her shoulder, fearing Lady Fate would grasp her in her unforgiving grip.

The wind was softly blowing, leaves dancing in the wind, their sound masking whatever little noise she made. Her tension lessened with each step. The courtyard seemed empty and she hoped the prince was already gone. The sun directly above her marked the middle of the day, the time of his departure.

Movement caught her eye and Cassara looked up. A man entered the courtyard from the other end of the manor. Cassara drew herself up, analyzing the man walking towards her. He was plainly dressed in riding clothes, his sandy hair slightly tousled by the wind. No royal mark.

Good.

Still, even if he was part of the prince’s entourage, he shouldn’t simply be walking around the two private courtyards. The outside courtyard was where he should stay.

Good day, Cassara said as she approached him, nodding in greeting. She wasn’t passing for a princess and there was no need for formalities between two servants. She couldn’t help but smile. She was enjoying this.

The man stopped strolling and looked up, his gray eyes silver in the high sun and as piercing as the blade Cassara gripped. He looked her over quickly, his eyes resting on her golden hair for a moment before he locked gazes with her, a grin playing on his lips.

Beautiful day, isn’t it? he replied.

Quite. But I’m afraid this area is reserved only for the royal family and their guests.

One of his eyebrows shot up inquisitively. She felt herself blush.

And the royal family’s servants, of course, she added, stumbling over the words. She wanted to kick herself. So much for being subtle.

Of course, the man said, obviously amused. Her blush deepened.

I believe Prince Dayshon’s escort must be gathering at the front of the manor now, since it is midday, Cassara said, forcing herself to look at him. She pointed back from where she had come. If you go through the next courtyard, a passage will lead you to the front.

The man nodded and proceeded to walk towards the middle of the Courtyard of Stars, away from where Cassara had just indicated. She felt her blood pulsing, annoyed she still held the knife, annoyed this man was stopping her from quickly hiding her tracks. And annoyed that she would be punished for not meeting with the prince.

That’s not the right way, she called after him as she followed.

This place is amazing, the man said, reaching the stone with the depiction of the Lost Lovers. I hear that you can actually see the constellations at night, perfectly aligned with these vision holes!

He paused, looking up. When he spoke again, his voice was filled with regret. I wish we were staying longer so that I could witness it.

Cassara stepped on the stone and looked up at the sky with him. It is beautiful. But perhaps you could return later and see it, if your master will allow it.

The man smiled at her, and suddenly the afternoon seemed warmer. Cassara reached up to push a stray strand of hair from her face, distracting her from his smile. The knife flashed in the sun as she quickly lowered her hand again.

Do princesses in Edoline always travel with unsheathed daggers in their hands? the man asked, smiling.

How do you know I’m the princess? Cassara asked before she could think better of it. She winced. Some politician she would turn out to be if she couldn’t think before speaking. Maybe it was for the best that she wanted to remain here, in Edoline, away from the world’s troubles and woes.

Perfect hands, smooth skin, clean dress, and, the man continued, pointing at her hair, the cascade of golden hair that is legendary even in Rashim.

My Lady, he said, executing a perfect bow.

Cassara wanted to say something commanding to him, something that would put the man in his place and get him out of her way. But seeing him bowing to her in a place he should not be, both standing in the most famous place, well, the only famous place in the manor, while she stood before him in a plain dress holding an unsheathed knife, made her lose whatever pretense of royalty she could have otherwise mustered.

Instead she began laughing, not gently, her entire rib cage shaking with laughter, which she tried to smother with her hand. The man looked up and his laughter soon joined hers.

I’m sorry, Cassara said as soon as she could speak, quite a few minutes later. This situation just struck me as very amusing. I suppose I’m not quite the princess someone like your prince might have envisioned.

The man grinned. I suppose not, although you would have to ask the prince himself.

She winced at the thought. To be honest with you, I had hoped to forego the encounter.

I had assumed as much, the man replied. "May