Chapter 1: The Four Kingdoms

We disembarked from the Herald in a harbour town between three nations but seen as an independent city state as small as it was. What meet us was not a single group of guard but a mix of four very separate and distinct guards wearing what I had to presume was royal livery. This was the first warning to me and my team that this diplomatic trade dealing was more complex than we had been told.

“Am I wrong in seeing four different guard types waiting for us?” Sert muttered to me in Atlantian.

“I am counting the same amounts.” Meli commented calmly. She was smiling while Sert held more a cold scowl on his face. This was in part my idea after our first outage in the world. The safe and approachable woman with a passing understanding, the stern faced guard that seem to understand nothing being said, and their wise leader. I had once again made it impossible for Cole to accompany us on this second trip away from Atlantis. Unfortunately, Annianka had put her foot down and gave me the flagship of the Atlantian Navy as my personal transportation method in the world as the representative of Atlantis. She held me to the title she had placed upon my brow of Envoy but it had become of Atlantis as well as for the Ones On High.

“I am unsure what this means yet but stay on your guard.” I warned them in Atlantian. I moved down the plank to the dock before this arrangement of armed soldiers. “I was not informed I would be met by more than one group of representative.” I called out to them. A mousy haired man quickly moved forward around the guards who stood stiffly waiting for their orders. The man moved until he was standing before me breathing hard as if winded from reaching me.

“You are Lord Kestrel, the Envoy, yes?” this man asked. He was smiling but felt nervous as he eyed me and my team. The glamory was in place on Sert and Meli giving them a slightly taller than human height but did not change their pointed ears. Sert had his hidden in his hair grown specifically for this purpose. Meli did not attempt hiding them to give herself a more exotic look to full show herself as Atlantian. What she did not understand was that this gave her a higher rank status while we travelled.

“I am Lord Kestrel, Envoy of the Ones On High.” I told him directly. I was acting mildly cold, annoyed, and disinterested in all this as if far removed from humanity. “My medical agent, Mekiliean and my guard, Sertian.” I added quickly. The man bowed to each of us receiving a curtsy from Meli and nod from Sert while I simply stood there. I was looking past him at the four lines of guards coldly.

“I am Dargent Khall, representing King Ranus, Queen Astaria, King Longinus, and King Reagent Palmius, sir.” he introduced himself. I scoffed out loud making Meli and Sert move to bracket me.

“One man to represent four kingdoms sounds preposterous.” I retorted bluntly. This was nothing we had been told about before our departure from Atlantis. The four kingdoms did maintain a peaceful face towards each other but tensions could shatter that easily. This trading agreement was with this city state and was not told of others added to this trade treaty.

“True if it we wished to not insult our own allies and trading partners.” Dargent returned smiling. “Since we are offering them the freedom of our harbours for the trades, we are responsible to assist in trading treaties.” he continued. My countenance shifted from annoyed to curious. “King Reagent Palmius believe this path will maintain peace and prosperity for all four kingdoms.” he added quieter.

“Interesting ideology this King Reagent puts forth without truly being the King.” I replied slowly.

“What is the difference between those two title?” Sert whispered to Meli behind my back in Atlantian.

“King is official while adding Reagent makes him a stand in for King either by marriage to the official Queen or named as acting King temporarily.” she explained in Atlantian.

“Our Prince has many ideas that seem to confuse many while turning out for the best to all four kingdoms.” Dargent remarked back.

“Acting King, possibly the heir.” Meli commented to Sert.

“May we proceed to the arranged meeting place so you may rest before discussions begin?” Dargent continued easily. I could still feel his nervousness. “The guards of the four kingdoms are a precaution due to some disruptive events that we are investigation presently.” he added in a quieter voice. His nervousness was not shared by the guards as they took their position around us as we walk.

Even Sert could have taken most of these guards down himself but they were confident in their abilities to protect us. I let my mind touched them and the few people we passed on the route to the central castle grounds. Confidence from the guards was not shared by the public. I felt fear, nervousness, frustration, and even hatred which had me more cautious in these dealing. Could this be a way for this King Reagent to claim control of the throne here or was this just how rulers overlooks the needs of their people for their own greed.

“The people look out of sort.” Sert commented at my right shoulder.

“The land feels like it is in pain.” Meli returned at my left.

“More than normal for a human city?” I remarked in Atlantian.

“It is a different feeling of pain, sir.” she replied quietly.

So far neither had spoken in the language these lands opting for using only Atlantian to make it appear they would not understand anything. A deceptions I requested of them which, though they considered dishonourable, they agreed to because of the dishonourable methods used during negotiations. I did know that, between my two companions, Meli would be the first to break her act simply because of her more volatile nature. She would hear a comment about them damaging the lands and she would call them names while swearing they are worse than beasts. I will smile as she does all this and make a very vicious counter offer that they will be to shocked to realize it is in our favour alone. Meanwhile, Sert would look confused with a boyish smile trying to calm Meli using Atlantian. By the time they realize what we had done, the trade treaties will be signed trapping them into what is truly the best for their people and Atlantis.

“The reactions of the citizen makes it clear why guards are required.” I mentioned to Dargent. He walked barely a pace ahead of me while keeping his eyes down and forward. “What has been happening that has the citizen so disturbed?” I asked when he remained silent. He sighed and waved a hand back at me motioning I move to his side. As I stepped forward to walk beside Dargent, Sert stepped up to be at the man’s back and Meli move to be my rearguard.

“Odd attacks without entry or exits notable, robberies with the same lack of traces, and raids within the kingdoms without a directions of note.” he whispered to me. “They are like ghost appearing from nothing and disappearing into nothingness after their actions.” he added exasperated. He had not stopped looking ahead as he stated this to me as if fearing to see disbelief or ridicule in my eyes.

“A very disturbing set of events and it is shared by all four kingdoms?” I returned in a quiet controlled voice. He did not look at me but nodded. “And what are the rulers doing about it?” I continued calmly.

“Between the military and the priesthood searching the areas of disruptions, their hands are tied.” he reported back. His eyes remained glued ahead of us and his words a soft whisper. “All we know is that the priests and priestesses agree that they feel a devilish energy in those places.” he continued in that whispering voice. “We have no magus or hedge wizards within the four kingdoms to assist in solving these problems.” he added. I nodded slowly before speaking in Atlantian much louder than our whispered conversation that I knew my companions had listened to as well.

“Keep checking for traces of magic, Meli.” I stated. “Watch for signs of of potential attacks, Sert.” I added. My eyes scanned our surroundings feeling Meli’s tentative touch detecting for magic. I matched her actions with a more direct and blunt mental scan. I did not need to look to know that Sert’s eyes were roaming the streets around us watchfully. “Anything?” I interjected in Atlantian.

“No magic tracers that I can detect.” Meli replied in a whispered breath.

“Nothing of note yet.” Sert replied quickly.

“Their words, though foreign, sounds so wonderfully musical.” Dargent commented. He finally turned to meet my eyes and spoke at a normal tone. “I must believe that even an argument sounds like a sonata instead of a fight.” he added with a soft chuckle.

“More like a cutting fast paced dirge if Mekiliean is involved.” I returned with a chuckle. Her huff behind me showed she did not find humour in my comment. “It is true, when you are angry, your words are fast and cut deeply.” I reminded her in Atlantian. “You may inform the rules that my team will look into these events while we are in their lands.”

“They will appreciate any assistance you can offer us, Envoy.” Dargent returned. I felt his nervousness reduce a bit but nothing changed the emotions running through the few citizens along our path. Entering the castle grounds, only that nervousness remained present outside the ring of guards wearing the four liveries of the four royal houses of this land.

“What do you make of these royal selected guards?” I asked in Atlantian. It was directed at Sert but Meli spoke first.

“Lacking nervousness in their body language.” she stated back.

“Suspiciously calm with the events taking place.” Sert added slightly blunter.

“These royal escorts seem unbothered by the events.” I mentioned in a whisper to Dargent. He nodded back and stopped us before a set of grand double doors.

“None of these events have happened within the royal residences so they have not been directly affected as our normal military, policing militia, and the citizens.” he explained. One guard from each of the four divisions approached at his words.

“It is because even when we are out upon the lands, they seem to avoid creating chaos in our area, sir.” the one with the matching livery Dargent wore spoke.

“This is true.” second agreed.

“It is as if they fear us.” the third stated.

“It may falsely give us courage but we will use what little we are given.” the last one stated.

“Attempts of having others wear the livery sash have been unsuccessful making us believe it is something in these guard families that make the invaders unable to act freely.” Dargent reported. “It has our best investigators confused and this lack of solutions has the citizens losing moral and trust in their leaders.” he confirmed directly.

“Yes, such a situation without solutions could lead to a very negative outcome.” I remarked nearly casually. “It is like an enemy to your peaceful coexistence has taken steps to end it.” I added. Sert head tilted with a look of confusion on his face. “It is an insidious form of invasion by an unknown enemy I am suggesting as a possibility here.” I informed Sert in Atlantian. He shook his head and glanced over the group of guards once more.

“It would not include why the event do not happen around those guards and why they are so very calm.” he returns to me. I saw and felt the doubt he held for these guards wearing the royal livery of the four different kingdoms.

“What are you thinking is truly happening?” I asked slowly. It was my turn to tilt my head in confusion though feigned. Meli had moved for us to be placed in a tight triangle for us to speak.

“Something else is happening that we are not being told or it is to weaken all four kingdoms for an internal change of leadership.” he explained softly. “Conspirators would not fear attacks, correct?” he added with a shrug. His boyish shy grin returned as if he had asked a simple but embarrassing question.

“We do have simple facilities if he needs to relieve himself.” Dargent hesitantly offered. I bit my lip to not laugh at this. Meli covered her mouth but a giggle escaped her. Sert looked at Meli and was blushing in silence.

“That is not his situation, Dargent.” I finally stated. I slowly turned to face him once more. “It is an unimportant matter that has him troubled.” I informed him. “Let us enter so we may prepare for these trade discussions.” I concluded. Two of the guards moved to open the doors showing us into a central room with side doors to our sleeping chambers. It was impressive for such a town to hold a castle this properly built.

*    *    *

“We will return after the noontime meal to begin our discussions.” Dargent informed us before the doors closed between us. Sert moved to check the rooms finding them simply holding a single bed in each room. Meli walked along the lengths of the walls while I felt her soft mental touch upon the stones. I waited in the middle of that room until they returned to report if they found anything.

“A panel with a system to bring up food or other things set closest to the sleeping rooms.” Sert reported. “Only a very small being or human child could use it to enter this place.” he added softly.

“A secreted door at the opposite side of the room from the servicing panel.” Meli commented. “That one is large enough for a human to enter but I did not find a way to open it from this side.” she informed us.

“It could be a servant entrance to clean the room but still a possible threat.” I told them. A click sounded from that direction drawing our attention. A section of the wall slowly swung open into the room. A young man in rather high quality clothing entered with a maid following him carrying a tray of food.

“Pardon my intrusion but I believe we should discuss prior to the trade agreement begin, my noble guests.” The man stated. He bowed in our direction. He motioned to the maid to place the tray on a nearby table before moving to sit. “It is unfortunately a simple fare but best to talk while breaking bread.” he continued. We had not moved while he spoke and took his place at the table. The maid had moved to stand just behind his left shoulder in perfect silence. “Please sit Lord Kestrel and my other new friends.” he added.

Sert moved first towards him with his hand on his sword. The maid move to block him but she held no weapon. I followed with Meli at my back. With a firm hand on Sert’s shoulder I redirected him to a chair. The maid gave me a quick nod returning to her place by this man. I motion Meli to sit and finally took the chair opposite this man.

“Harming the King Reagent would be a very impolite way of starting negotiations, Sert.” I stated in the common tongue of these lands. “Or have I mistaken you for Prince Palmus?” I added. Both my companions relaxed and slowly started eating. The Prince chuckled as he nodded towards us.

“A good trade negotiator would make sure his entourage understood the language of the nations he must deal with.” this easygoing royal stated. “I am sure Dargent informed you of the changes in these proceeding, correct?”

“How the extra goods from the other three kingdoms would pass through your port under your security and assurance.” I returned casually. I could sense it was not the trade deals he was actually here to speak to me about.

“Correct, but those trades will be explained fully by Dargent later.” he answered waving it off. “I leave that in his capable hands which are more skilled than mine in negotiations that are fair for all parties involved.” he continued easily. This lack of ego was disconcerting as much as his casual behaviour around us. “I am unsure if he hazarded the information of the odd events taking place in all four kingdoms.” he put forward. I nodded to him between bites of food. “I would be involved directly in the investigation if father was not ill and unable to rule presently.” he concluded. His last words had his demeanour slip from casual to frustrated and back to casual.

“He is a skilled investigator, sir.” The maid pipped in. Her voice was feminine but deep and husky. “No harm could touch him as I would be at his side.” she added. Her eyes had locked on Sert as she spoke.

“We can spare later if you wish but I never said that.” Sert commented back. He flashed her a grin before returning to his plate. Her eyes went wide before she blushed while the Prince chuckled.

“I expect you physician would the one who actually could speak our language but not your warrior.” he remarked.

“We both speak and understand your language.” Meli returned with a smirk.

“They can even read a few words as well Prince Palmus.” I admitted to him and his guardian maid. “The fact they decided to speak here shows the trust for you and your elite guard.” I continued. “But I am still wondering what you wish to speak to me, or us, about.”

“The events and if you and your team can assist us in rectifying them.” he replied quickly. “Rumours of the magical strength and skill of Atlantis is not lost on me in this case.” he continued. He had become more serious. “I wish to request an investigation from Atlantis upon these matters plaguing the four kingdoms.” he stated directly. “I am skilled in investigations but I believe this case is beyond even my skills.” he added. The maids shoulder dropped at his words as she nodded slowly her agreement.

“We were originally only spending a week in town for the negotiations.” I replied pensively.

“I can take word to the Herald about the change in plans and duration of our stay.” Sert remarked easily.

“Little thunder can bring them word when we are nearly done to rendezvous back here to collect us if you think the Herald might be needed elsewhere.” Meli added in. This was their way of saying they wanted to investigate this mystery.

“We can collect extra provisions if we plan to visit each Kingdom to directly inspect the areas of these oddities.” I informed them. The prince’s eyes lit up at our words. “My companions and myself are interested in this mystery.” I admitted more directly. “But we cannot assure that Atlantis will not try to call us home without warning.” I added.

“Any assistance is accepted as well as anything you require will be provided by myself and my kingdom.” the Prince answered. He reached one hand across the table to me for us to shake hands as agreeing to this request. “If you wish to know more, please ask me.” he continued. A small bundle of scrolls was placed on the table to one side of us by his private guard.

“These are a compilation of everything discovered from the many events.” she informed us. “It is not much outside the priestly reaction of devilish energies in the places where events took place.” she added.

“Would your priests or priestesses be able to distinguish between devil or demon energies?” I asked quietly. The maids eyes met mine as she smiled showing her fangs and sharp teeth. My eyes focused fully on her including my other senses. The bare hint of brimstone was in the air. Very small horns were tucked and mostly hidden under the maid band crowning her head. She flicked her three prong tongue in her mouth showing it clearly for us to notice.

“Yes, they have learned rather quickly the difference of their aura.” Palmus whispered. “She has served me since my birth and I fear nothing with her at my side.” he admitted confidently. She actually blushed at his words while looking at the back of his head. I could feel her emotions filled with passion for this man. My companions oozed confusion at what they were seeing.

“She is a half-demon with only mild signs of her demonic nature showing.” I explained to my companions. Sert gulped deeply while Meli simply whispered a single ‘what?’ in Atlantian.

“My mother was a maid in the Queen’s service and my father was a demon warrior that had retired peacefully in the King’s lands.” she informed us. “I am Lashandra and I was born on the same day and time as the Prince which is why I was selected to be his guard and servant.” she told us. “I will die before allowing harm come to him.” she concluded as if this was her oath to him.

“Never repeat those words.” the Prince retorted. He did not glance back at her but I could see his face had turned red but not from embarrassment. “You are not allowed to die for me, Lashandra, I forbid it!” he added hard and blunt.

“Do not take my words incorrectly, King Reagent Palmus.” I returned. “But she would die for you as you step in front of a blade to keep her living for the same reason.” I told them. “It is a sign of true duty and true love.” I added quieter. His eyes snapped on me, shocked and now his redness was a truthful blush of embarrassment at getting caught. She blushed brighter as she glared at me.

“The do seem to make a good pair.” Meli remarked with a half smile.

“I see him too easily interfering with her true battles which a sparing session between us might alleviate this nervous reaction.” Sert stated with a shrug. “Though fighting against Lord Kestrel would prove it must better than facing Meli or myself.” he added. Their eyes flashed from one to the other to finally return on me.

“I believe nothing we do will prove how truly they will react fighting to die for each other.” I surmised casually. “She will never let you face danger without being there to save you as you wish to save her, Prince Palmus.” I continued. “But as King Reagent, she has more to lose than you imagine if she fails protecting you.” I reminded him. “Personally, I see no issues if you claim her as your bonded partner but understand that she will want to die for you as much as you will want to die for her.”

“What you suggest is impossible.” Lashandra remarked harshly. “He will be King and will require a Princess to be his Queen.” she added with finality.

“Unless I abdicated and remain but a Prince.” he returned slowly. “Or renounce my title to be a commoner if that’s needed.” he continued forward. He finally heard what her words of oath truly meant and he refused losing her. He twisted in his seat for his eyes to lock with hers. “You are not allowed to die nor are you allowed to leave me no matter what title they idly place upon my brow.” He forged forward. “If you die, I will throw myself from the highest balcony to rejoin with you in death, my Lashandra.” he nearly screamed at her. “This life, this world means nothing if you are not with me, understand?” he snapped at her. Her eyes were wide and fear filled as she took a step back.

“A prince may not marry beneath himself.” she returned hard.

“Your Demon father was a great Lord in the battles to have these four kingdom free.” he replied with a small smirk. “Father has already given him a title before the illness incapacitated him, Lady Lashandra.” he admitted to her. “He could see my love for you as clearly as he saw your love for me.” he revealed softer. “Now accept the fact that if I ascend to the throne as King, you will be my Queen and nothing can prevent this from taking place.” he concluded blunter.

“But Sir...” she interjected.

“Hush, my Queen while we stand before foreign dignitaries.” he returned with a smirk towards me. “Queens can be so wordy at the wrong moments sometimes.” he stated teasingly. Lashanda growled at him showing her fangs but I could feel this was playful teasing for her. I believe Meli understood while Sert stayed in the dark, in a way.

“A King’s or Queen’s word cannot be contradicted.” the warrior remarked with a shrug. “Your King Reagent has spoken and must be obeyed.” he added with a smirk.

“Remember those words when your Amazon wife-to-be lands in the harbour of Atlantis, Sertian.” I countered with a smirk. His smirk turned into the shy boyish grin he wore too often. “She will never let you escape as these two are doing for each other.” I told him directly. “She will have you as her mate even if she must use force.” I added pointedly.

“He is betrothed to one of those warrior woman?” the Prince gasped suddenly.

“Was he as hard headed as my Prince in claiming her?” Lashandra added with a smirk at Sert.

“She claimed him as hers, and I will support her.” Meli chimed back. “He is like an older brother to me so I need to help him not mess up, right?” she added with a giggle.

“As far as that goes, I unfortunately have the last word because of my duty to my dealing with the Amazons, including their Queen.” I rebuked her easily. “I see no problems with her claiming Sert once she is accepted as a warrior, and he agrees with it.” I repeated myself indirectly. “You can earn your own status among them by stopping avoiding sparring against me, Mekiliean.” I concluded with a snicker.

“I would face anyone in the other world but you are not a simple fighter, sir.” Meli retorted blunter. “Facing a being, I have seen deities bend a knee to, sounds like insanity in my mind.” she added softly.

“Happy I wanted a friendship with one like yourself, Lord Kestrel.” the Prince remarked.

“I feel good suggesting this action to you, my liege and love.” Lashandra added in with a slight giggle. “My father spoke highly of a being that shared your name even if referred to as the Dread Bird, he held honour and integrity in his motives.” she stated. “Your honour has been fully proven as equal to the true ideals of a deity.”

“This is the second time we have heard you called the Dread Bird Kestrel, sir.” Meli commented.

“Yes, I was that being that used pure violence to create a common good in this world.” I returned without hiding my world in Atlantian.

“The Dread Bird kept an army of priest at bay allowing hundreds of demon to escape to live peacefully including my father.” Lashandra replied quickly. “It is him I owe my life, indirectly.” she added.

“If I did this, I barely remember it considering how much madness poured out from that entity.” I replied trying to avoid the praise.

“But you were also Meakita, the Dread Bird’s opponent, which can explain the confusion.” Sert chimed in. I glared at both of them.

“Many portions of my many lives are complicated.” I told all of them.

“Seraphim, who gave us a warning of how the Heaven war would end and why we should run from the Hells before the Devils came into existence, yes?” Lashandra asked directly.

“I could not prove my fears when I warned the demons of what was coming.” I returned sadly.

“My father lead the charge out from the many Hells upon your warning, sir.” she returned quickly. “You saved many of us before Hell became a horrid place feeding the self-proclaimed God that created Lucifer, the Satan.”

“I could not do more while wounded and trapped in a form I could not truly fight them within.” I admitted. “Then the Dread Bird and Meakita spread a differing ideal forward in both direction to help protect those I could not directly.” I remarked quietly.

“If the priest sense devils, it is the fallen angel and not my fathers kin interfering with these four kingdoms.” she returned in the most quiet voice I ever heard. “The Seraphim gave us a chance to escape as the one named Dread Bird did years later for others.” she informed me. “We are taught that they are the same being, sir”

“We are but each have different reasons to exist.” I snapped back. I did not wish to reveal more information from my many past lives before my companions. “Even if the end goal are the same, the method changed for each versions I existed.” I stated calmer. “It has nothing to do with this case which we will attempt solving for the four kingdoms.” I concluded. The meal continued more subdued until it was done and the Prince with his servant left through the secret passage.

*    *    *

Dargent arrived within the hour after our meal to escort us to a secondary chamber where samples of the trade goods sat. It was divided into four sections representing each kingdom with Palmus having the smallest share of goods being offered. I looked through the many things slowly inspecting the quality and gauging the possible quantity safely offered as trade amounts. I noticed a pattern in the goods as well being offered that finally had me speaking.

“It would seem the three other kingdoms produce and trade more raw goods that this kingdom processes into goods for longer length of existence.” I remarked to Dargent. He nodded back but did not speak. “I must believe that their raw goods are traded for processed goods, correct?”

“Yes, but there is a surplus of raw goods that we cannot fully process all of it.” he replied slowly. “It also gives us a surplus of process goods we will never use before they expire.” he continued easily. “What all our four kingdoms lack is metals to build tools, reinforce our arms and armour, and protect our structures from storms.” he explained.

“Metal tools made from bronze or brass could be used as part of our trade offer.” I returned pensively. “I am curious about your how you plan protecting your structures with metals.” I hazarded softly.

“Mostly to draw the lightning away from structures and into the ground safely.” Dargent returned. “I do not understand the details on how it works but tall metal rods seem to pull the lightning from the storms safely into the ground.” he told me. I was scratching at my chin while he described a lightning rod which was a creation that I had seen in their future. How many simple devices like this would be lost and rediscovered in the future. “I am told it is not magic but a form of alchemy.” he added with a shrug.

“Your description sounds very logical considering lightning strikes the highest point while the metal allows the electrical charge to dissipate into the ground.” I stated my agreement. “Cooper would work well but most alloys of it are not as functional by heating up from the electricity pulsing through it.” I explained nearly casually. He nodded but looked confused by my words. “And for the armour and arms, what are the exact plans for reinforcing them?”

“Bands of metal such as bronze stitched upon the leather armour.” he explained. “Adding bronze, cooper, or other purer metals during the creation process can reinforce the weapons being made with flexibility and strength.” he continued. “It was also our ideas for the tools making a longer lasting plow blade, hatchets, and other commonly used tools.”

“May I suggest a different modification for armour?” I hazarded. I motion to my own black armour. “Placing the metallic bands between two sheets of leather securing them from both sides makes for both strong and flexible armour.” I explained my thoughts to him. I saw Sert glancing at me confused. “It is a form of armour known as brigadine in the world.” I told him in Atlantian. “It is not the strongest armour but a good starting point for them to improve from naturally into iron and eventually steel and other alloys.” I added to him.

“Is he worried you are sharing hidden knowledge of Atlantis?” Dargent remarked with a half smile. “Brigadine or bronze plate armour is known but the lack of metal holds us back from creating it.” he explained to me. “Which has me considering our mysterious chaotic events.” he continued quieter. He glanced around quickly be fore signalling one of the four guards that stood at the edge of the room to move closer. “Our royal guardians wear armour with metal that is lacking from most of our soldiers and militia.” he stated. He motioned to the man to show his armour to us. It was a simple and low quality version of the armour I wore myself. “The bands are low quality iron but still useful.” he added.

“The armour is part of our family heritage which is passed down from father to son or from mother to daughter when we step forth to become guards replacing our former rank.” the soldier in this city state’s livery. “Is the armour the source of our protection from the devilish raids?” he asked suddenly. He had caught the reason Dargent had called him over.

“It is a possibility but usually it is silver and not iron devils fear.” I replied easily. Sert nudged me gently to draw my attention.

“The impure iron might contain a small amount of silver they do not know about.” he whispered to me in Atlantian.

“Meli, check his armour components with your earth skills.” I ordered. She looked over the man while I sensed her earth magic touching the hidden metal bands. She simply shook her head back to me showing a lack of silver.

“Rudimentary coal infused iron barely equivalent to steel.” she revealed softly in Atlantian. “Traces of cooper, tin, and lead, but no silver present.” she reported. I nodded to her.

“It might be the armour preventing them to act around those higher placed guards but I cannot assure this fact is reality.” I informed Dargent and the one guard standing with us. He nodded before returning to his position on the edge of the room. “We have considered extending our stay to assist in solving your mystery as well as visiting the other three kingdoms as well.” I informed Dargent. Elation shined on his face as he understood my words fully.

“I thank you for this offer of assistance in these chaotic moments.” he returned quickly. “Let us complete these trade negotiations and sign the contract quickly so you may get to visiting our allies.” he concluded.

“I believe all I require is the base for the trades and what would be required for this treatises to be signed.” I returned easily to him. A day of discussion followed as we dealt with each kingdoms ending with the city state itself. I send word by little thunder to Atlantis receiving a reply the next morning giving me the right to sign in the name of Atlantis for the Council and Her Holiness. The section of the replies held a message specifically from my sweetness agreeing I should investigate in the mystery threatening the four kingdoms. She even named them properly in the language shared by these people.

I saw it a pathway she suggested I travelled along: King Ranus’ Enclava, Queen Astaria’s Silverstein, King Longinus’ Dorestrain, and King Reagent Palmus’ Cathadrell. She added a suggestion of allowing Meli to examine the sick King of Cathadrell to give Prince Palmus a chance to rendezvous with my team later in our investigation. It was not odd for her to suggest this as I had already discussed with Meli and Sert about giving her a chance to heal the King with my support. From what Palmus had revealed during our daily early noontime meal, the illness was natural and not a fatal disease that a few herbs might help but not truly required.

Lashandra had actual sat and eaten with us starting on the second day. Her presence had softened but her and Sert still made comments of testing each others skills. I knew for Sert it was based on wondering what weapons she would be using while she wanted the challenge of facing an Atlantian guard assigned to an Envoy of my rank. The treatises were signed that day after the secretive meal with Palmus and Lashandra which were sent afterwards to be filed with the Council of Atlantis and have the first shipment of trades with the Herald while we investigated the events in Enclava.

Palmus had agreed eagerly for Lady Mekiliean and myself examine his father as long as the royal physician and himself could be present as observers. As Meli and myself suspected, it was not a serious illness even if it had him unable to leave his bed. Discussions between Meli and the royal physician had a trio of herbs added as a tea with the King’s meals plus an extra cup before bed. We did warn Palmus that he should stay upon the throne until the King is fully healed prevent him trying to chase after us.

We assured him we would be returning here before leaving and give him a full report on what we had discovered. The next morning had us departing with Dargent escorting us to the gate opening into King Ranus’s kingdom of Enclava with his guards returning ahead of us to carry the signed treatise to his royal hands. We would follow at a slower pace using a cart and single oxen pulling it. I did worry the devilish attackers would not show around us because of the metal in our armour. We could still investigate past event areas and see what we could add to their knowledge about this.

*    *    *

It was barely half-way through the first day when we meet the citizens of this land, specifically a priest with a small group of citizen by the roadside. From what I felt from them, one of those odd events had happened recently here.

“Guards will arrive soon but we must keep watch until then.” the priest was yelling as we came to a stop. “If you are the one we were told should be coming to assist, keep the oxen by the roadside.” he called to us. “Animals have died and we fear a poison is in this bedeviled area.”

“Sert! Stay with the cart. Meli! Let us see what we can do.” I ordered in Atlantian. Sert had the cart moved to the opposite of the road while Meli and myself strode towards the priest. I cannot say which religious group this man followed from his holy emblem but his cut and countenance was priestly. “I am Lord Kestrel from Atlantis with my physician, Lady Mekiliean.” I announced as we approached.

“Very merrily meet nobles of the great island of Atlantis.” he returned. I noticed the shocked looks and felt the awe from the group of a dozen citizen with the priest. “Acolyte Raizon of the deity of farmers and their beasts.” he stated back quickly. “Small unearthly creatures were in the field spreading seeds when the farmers spotted them and rushed forward to stop them.” he reported. “The creatures disappeared when the farmers reached here with pitchforks in hand.” he concluded.

“I sense the same energy as with the Leviathan’s engine, sir.” Meli commented in their common tongue.

“A rift opening here in a mostly non-magical area is nearly impossible.” I returned calmly.

“It is the same energy markings of rifts and not any form of portalling I have ever felt.” she retorted. I nodded slowly at her while letting my mental senses to fill the area. I found it and it was rift energy but held an unnatural feel to it. It was being created some how allowing troops to enter, cause problems, and retreat without being caught.

“What is this rift you speak of?” the priest asked softly. His eyes went from myself to Meli and back while waiting for an answer.

“A rip in the world allowing beings from other places to step into our world.” I explained as simply as I could for him. “These are not natural rifts, since I count three of them previously existing in this area.” I told him. “It is similar to the Leviathan Meli but not created with technology.” i added to her.

“But they were made and not simply formed naturally without the magic ether instability to open naturally, correct?” she replied quickly. I smiled and nodded at her. “What would be required to create a rift?” she asked now in Atlantian. I stood scratching my chin while tapping my feet pensively. I shrugged to her truly unsure how much information to reveal about rifts including how I can open them if needed.

“Only problem right now is that it’s been closed for too long for me to track the source.” I informed her.

“Devilish energies and entities should mean that it came from the hells.” Raizon commented.

“They could have been summoned somewhere else, rifted to their target, then sent back to the hell with their payment.” I corrected him gently.

“Payment?” the acolyte returned. His face had already turned white at my words.

“Blood sacrifice, willing souls, or disposable bodies to possesses in this world.” I told him. “Many dark coins trade hands in the hells that we would not wish to deal with as sane people.” I added. The disgust at these practices had him turning green and covering his mouth. Meli for her part had pulled a few leaves from her healers bag. She held them out to the priest representative present.

“Mint leaves to sooth your stomach.” she stated calmly. Once he had taken them from her hand she slowly moved around this area. She placed a bit of coloured ribbons by the places she sensed the rifts totalling three rifts in and out of this area. She examined the seeds and flowers without touching them. “I am noting a few species not native to this area.” she reported. “Removing them before they start spreading would be my advice.” she added.

“Get the farmers to wear gloves and pull out any plant or seed that does not belong here, Raizon.” I commanded calmly. “Bag it all so we can determine where they may have originated from.” I added still behaving relaxed. My senses have detected other signs which Meli distinctively avoided stepping upon.

“I believe the source of pain I felt from these lands comes from the foreign plants.” Meli reported to me in an Atlantian whisper. “It appears they feed on the nutrients in the soil more aggressively than the native species.” she added quickly.

“Weakening the soil could lead to a possible famine in these kingdoms.” I replied in Atlantian to her. The sounds of approaching horses had me looking toward the dirt road we travelled upon. “Raizon, these foreign plants are a danger to all the crops within the four kingdoms and must be removed as quickly as possible.” I told him directly. “The raids and thefts maybe be a ruse to drop seeds and plants in these lands.” I added quickly. My mind may be jumping to conclusions but too many clues suggested a weakening assault upon these lands. It was a way to clear a path for an invasion while the populous raged from hunger against their leaders.

The two dozen horses came into view and halted upon the road by our primitive wagon. I noticed that a third of the riders had a priest upon their backs. With a quick glance over them, I noticed a quintet of different other faiths in this group of priest and priestesses. I notice two rushing in front of the others to join Raizon with staves in hand. One looked exasperated while the other smiled upon the acolyte. In my peripheral vision I notice a pair of soldiers speaking with Sert who was using hand gestures and single words in a broken tongue to answer them.

“I asked to wait but you ran off.” the priestess chided Raizon.

“He rushed to make sure the area was safe for the people, Deillia.” the old priest stated beside her. He turned to face me. “He was of help, correct sir?” he stated with a smirk on his face.

“Much help at finding the true danger in these devilish events, noble priest.” I replied. I bowed to him in a fluid Atlantian fashion. “My physician has a good understanding of herbology and was able to detect the foreign plants attacking the land and possibly the crops if allowed to spread.” I informed him.

“You are the Atlantians that offered to assist our four kingdoms?” the priestess gasped. “But outside their pointed ears, you look perfectly human.” she added bluntly.

“Our form is modified through magic to not cause fear upon seeing us.” Meli replied quickly. “Our true appearance is very similar other than our special ears.” she reassured her.

“And I am human but adopted by the Atlantians as a lost child of Atlantis.” I added in quickly when the priestess’ eyes met mine.

“Priestess Deillia and I am High Priest Monroe.” the older priest announced. “Our Acolyte Raison was to wait for Deillia to accompany him but luckily rushed off instead.” he stated easily. He bowed to me quickly before continuing speaking. “This information does have us considering these events are an attack upon our lands and not only a devilish annoyance.” he added slowly.

“Correct unfortunately.” I returned quickly. “The trade treatises signed gives a peaceful assistant roles upon the lands of the four Kingdoms.” I informed him. “But we are not to interfere directly in a military situation.” I added quickly.

“If an attack upon our lands begins, you and your retinue will be force to withdraw, which is acceptable.” Monroe stated. He nodded his head slowly but the smile did not fade from his face.

“We will assist for as long as possible until either a war starts or we are forcibly called back to Atlantis.” I said softly. “I will assured another team or teams of Atlantians will replace us if the lands are still at peace.” I offered as possible outcome. “Her Holy Heart Annianka herself will make this happen upon my polite request.” I added. Meli giggled behind her hand knowing Annianka would agree to anything I asked of her.

“The Council of Atlantis will agree because of the fair treatment and trades the four kingdoms have agreed upon.” Meli stated still giggling under her breath. “Lord Kestrel is highly respected for his wisdom and honour upon Atlantis.” she added. I was happy she did not state I was seen as Annianka’s mate and feared by the Council. I kept Sert in my peripheral vision as we spoke nothing how the two guards by him seemed confused and worried.

“My guard Sertian cannot speak the language of these lands, may my physician, Lady Mekilian, go act as his interpreter?” I requested. Meli sighed before curtsying to the trio of priests and rushing to join Sert. “She learns languages must easier than my military minded companion.” I excused myself to them. “The other discovery we have made is how they are appearing and vanishing so easily by using a rift or tear in this world.” I continued. The rest of the priest were close enough to hear my words and their higher ranked members’ heads snapped to me. “These are being opened purposefully but I was unable to trace them to their source.” I added.

“This would suggest these devilish creatures are not coming directly from the hells.” the old priest remarked. Raizon nodded while Deillia looked confused at this comment. “The devils would have no reason to attack unless called upon to do so.” he explained to the priestess. “More proof that this is an attempt to weaken us for an invasion in the future.” he mused out loud. This gained soldiers with high ranking marks moving to join us. “Our first actions would be, what I am seeing done here, collecting the foreign flora to be disposed of after identifying their origins.” he continued. He glanced at the commanding soldiers who nodded back to him. “Every spot the devils appear must be inspected and the invading plants removed quickly.” he added blunter.

I saw the commanders moving to send word to have this indirect order done quickly. The two guards by Sert had relaxed with Meli speaking for warrior playing the role of ignorant about most of their words. He even got a chance to examine the guards’ weapons which were very plain short swords. I did not to see their shock as Sert pulled out his long sword for them to examine. They actually called one their commands and other soldiers to witness this blade my guard and protege in the martial arts held. I knew, if given a chance, Sert would request sparring sessions with these regular soldiers and their commanders. My eyes went over the area now mostly cleaned from the flora that should not be in this soil. One farmer carried the stuffed bag to me.

“I will see about locating where these plants came from once we are safely in a stone structure.” I told all them still by me. “No soil makes it harder for the plants to attempt taking root.” I explained my delayed action. “I will informed a representative of my findings since it may point at who are truly behind these actions against the four kingdoms.” I added calmly.

“We have a stone keep within a half days where this could be done, sir.” one of the commander stated. “I am sure the priesthood with us would wish to assist.” he stated. A woman with a matching rank had moved to stand with him. “But, I believe, High Priest Monroe and his priesthood would be best in dealing with plants.”

“I would suggest we two stay with him to relay any new information they discover to the leaders of the four kingdoms.” the command woman interjected. “Commanders Forest and Hildgard, sir.” she added quickly. She gave me a salute followed by the other commander standing by her.

“Lord Kestrel, representing Atlantis for the completed trade negotiations.” I replied. Ignoring my Envoy title seemed wise at this time. Deilia gave me an odd look but remained quiet. “I find both your offers as more than acceptable.” I continued casually. I motioned for us to move back towards our cart while carrying the bag of invasive plants in tight grip. “May I also be warned about the removal and brought a sample from any other plants discovered growing out of their normal domain?” I requested slowly. “Every bit of information is needed to solve your problems quickly.” I added as an excuse.

“That can be done with the assistance of the church of the lands and beasts of the cultivators.” Forest returned. He had given Monroe a glance to receive a quick clear nod of agreement for his priesthood.

“And we can assign troops to help them reach you faster, sir.” Hilgard added in quickly.

“It is appreciated and will help us to assist you to the best of our abilities.” I replied with a gracious nod of my head towards them.

“If you could be at one of those events faster, could you track the source of the rifts?” Raizon asked hesitantly. Deillia did not grumble or interfered at her subordinates question.

“If it is possible, yes.” I returned. “I may be able to hold the rift open if it has not fully closed to send troops directly upon your enemies.” I continued with a smirk at the two commanders. “It is not a declared war and I would not cross the rift to attack them directly.” I added. This would give them the possibility of retaliating without causing a war to be declared.

We mounted our cart with Raizon joining my team while the commanders and priests followed on horseback. Forest lead the way while Hilgard covered our rear while we pushed the oxen to it’s limits of its speed. It would be pre-dusk from their information before we reached the keep guarding the pass into the large valley where their royal capital sat. We would not be stopping taking our meals for that day while riding forward to our first research area.

*    *    *

“Should we send a message to Lorenzo for his knowledge added to ours?” Meli suggested. We were examining the plants and seeds when she spoke. I smirked as the capture copy of his journals appeared in my hand. I quickly sketched out the plant listing the most common traits of colours, patterns and descriptions of the seed with the words ‘Where are they from?’. Meli giggled softly seeing what I was doing. “I hope he can give us an idea about these plants since I cannot discern their original location."

“I am unsure as well but calling on the plant master Lorenzo is very logical in our case.” I replied. “We will see if he can help reduce the possibilities we have presently.” I continued. These plants appeared to have been modified to preform this soil destroying it on purpose. Similarities of plants found in many other places in this world had me worried at how this had been done and why use this method and plants to incapacitate these kingdoms. Unless they have a ways to remove the infection of plants, they would be invading a barren land. This had me hoping to find the source quickly to gain that information while the four kingdoms tries eradicating the plants by pulling them out. The soft knock on the door had me turning to face what I knew was an open door. “Yes?” I interjected.

“We have word on how the eradication is proceeding within Enclava, sir.” Deillia replied. She stood only half in the door tightly clutching her staff to her chest. “The plants have been pulled but the roots seem harder to remove.” she stated softly. “They seem to reappear even if those that are working on it have fully removed them.” she continued. “A few have suggested simply burning the infected land leaving scorched earth that nothing can survive within.” she explained. I moved towards the door ready to rebuke this idea. “The suggestion is not being followed so far due to the amount of fertile lands it would be destroying including farms and villages.” she concluded.

“It’s a solution that would be as bad as the plants themselves.” I agreed with her statement. I half turned towards Meli who’s eyes were on the capture journal. “Is it word from Lorenzo?” I asked hopefully. Her eyes rose to meet mine as she mouthed the words akin to feces. I moved to look upon the words in the journal sent to me by Lorenzo himself.

Yes, I have seen this plant during my studies and actually tried working with it but found it impossible to modify its negative traits of sapping nutrients from the soil it is planted in, spreading without stopping, and effectively poisoning the soil for animals feeding in that area. Covering the soil to prevent light for a fortnight is the only way I was able to prevent it from spreading or surviving to reinfect the land. I give you the solution I have discovered since it nearly decimated my hidden garden and all the work I had placed within it. I first learned of this plant in barren steeps where it could be found but had nothing left to feed upon but would not die by feeding off the corpses of animals it had killed. I cannot assure you it would not have the same poisonous effect on humans, but if a human dies, it will feed on their corpse in the same way even in still fertile lands.

I add a warning to not attempt using fire since it will make it spread. This vile plant reacts to fire by forming spores that utilizes the heat to rise and spread from the initial infected area. I pray for your good luck to prevail against these plants that I would call evil while loving the mass of greenery I surround myself with. Lorenzo.

“At least we have a solution now.” I muttered. I glanced at Meli’s pale face knowing that, if Lorenzo called this plant evil, she would trust his conclusion. “Any nations beyond the borders of the four kingdoms have barren steppes?” I continued while turning back to the priestess in the doorway. “And we have a way of stopping the plants but it will be a hardship.” I added.

“None that I know of but I will call upon the cartographers to verify this information for you.” she replied quickly. “What is this arduous solution you have been given?” she added. Her eyes looked passed me to the journal Meli still stared at pale faced.

“A fortnight of complete darkness will kill the plant and prevent it spreading.” I told her directly. “As for accomplishing this is the hard part of this curative method.” I informed her. “Keeping the infected lands away from light for twenty days and nights is not an easy task but required to end this and save the lands.” I explained slowly.

“But the lands will not be dead for a year or more unlike the suggestions to burn it.” she returned. “I will get it started on the infected area within Enclava and send word to have it started in the other four kingdoms, Lord Kestrel.” she stated with a deep priestly bow towards me. “For all our kingdoms, I thank you.” she added before rushing away.

“She did not even ask where this solution came from.” I muttered turning to return to stand by Meli. “Yes, I believe that his view on this specific plant is truthful since it is a parasitic pariah on the lands.” I assure her. Her eyes moved from the journal to mine.

“He called this plant evil when he loves all plants.” she remarked in a whisper. “But they were modified before he even discovered them to be this vile, Kestrel.” she added quietly. I nodded to her wordlessly. The attacks and raid were still happening but with quick actions they kept the plants from taking root and forcing a fortnight of darkness to remove them.

*    *    *

We had moved from the stone keep to the capital when words reached us from my little thunder. Atlantis was in full agreement that I continue investigating these events and report back anything and everything I discovered during my new mission for the four kingdoms. Little thunder was off within the hour with my report of the flora invasion method they used and the solution with the warning Lorenzo had given us. My companion still felt out of place in the elegance and pompousness of our new surroundings but everyone here accepted them as grand dignitaries nearly worshipping us. King Ranus kept a distance from us publicly but did inquire in private about our progress and thoughts about these mysterious invasion tactics.

“I still am unsure why they would avoid our royal guards during their seemingly random raids.” Ranus stated quietly. We sat in a private alcove of his central garden. Meli and Sert with Deillia and Raizon paired with them as they searched the King’s garden for possible plant invaders.

“It was suggested the metal in their armour but this is not an assured explanation, sir.” I replied softly. “Events with family members have also been absent from occurring which could be a trait in their bloodlines.” I continued. I was not going to give him proof or doubts but state the facts as they appeared in the eyes of his citizens. “Their confidence does cast them into a doubtful position in the eyes of others as if they know something not being revealed to them, your majesty.” I added. He sighed and nodded.

“The are seen and believe themselves above the skills of any other in our lands making them conceited and fearless.” he returned. “We have investigated them closely to find them free of these disruptive events, Kestrel.” he shared with me. “But we cannot tell our people this without them adding the investigators and even the throne being part of this.” he added in a near whisper.

“With these events causing a situation of fear and doubt among your citizens, any information of innocence without naming a culprit will fail or worse have them turning against the throne itself.” I agreed. “That in itself could be one of the many goals of these invasive actions.” I reminded him. He nodded but had a tired smile on his face.

“Am I wrong not informing my people that even the royal farms at the edge of this city were infected and lay under many leathery skins to be free of this infection?” he countered. “I would rather they do not worry about their royals while focusing on saving themselves with out help.” he admitted quietly. “Knowing what should be revealed to the populous is becoming a heavier burden with each passing year.” he added. I could sense his frustration of keeping some information a secret from his people that he truly loved and worried about.

“Having orphanage and training facility built without tell your people that you are the one doing so is a secret that is safe to keep, sir.” I remarked. It brightened his demeanour a bit but I could still sense his deep seated worry for his people living through these devilish events. “From what I have seen, you have done your best in this situation and providence set us in a position to assist you.” I added calmly.

“The many deities work together to assist their followers in the most mysterious way possible.” he returned with a halfhearted chuckle.

“Even deities have a limit on what they can do so they asks other higher powers to help sometimes.” I replied with a smirk. My title as Envoy was only stated upon our arrival leaving the commanders Forest and Hilgard slack-jawed in shock. Hearing that I was the Envoy of Atlantis and the Ones On High had them stunned at how I appeared being average while my knowledge they presumed was gained from Atlantis. Deillia and Monroe seemed undisturbed by this news while I sense awe hidden in the priestess alone. The handful of guards that had accompanied us felt undisturbed by this revelation mostly since their mind did not understand the true meaning of these titles I wore thanks to Annianka.

“Word is that the raiding attacks have increased in Queen Astaria’s Silverstein kingdom.” the king informed me. “Their northern border is the longest and would give invaders a clear path to Cathadrell and position them to grind Enclava and Dorestrain between an army and the mountains to our eastern and western borders.” he continued. It was his way of informing what strategy might be used by our enemies harassing all four kingdoms. “If you wish to track the rifts, best to be in the place they are happening more often than in my kingdom.” he added. It was as if he was ordering us to leave but wanting these events to end for all four kingdoms showing his true regal nature and how tightly he was connected to the other kingdoms.

“As you advise, we will follow the path most helpful for the four kingdoms in the name of Atlantis.” I returned. I stood and crossed the open archway into the garden. “We let the priesthood and military deal with the issues in Enclava.” I called out to my team. They froze and glanced around to see if little thunder had brought word we were being recalled to Atlantis. “We will be going to Silverstein to meet with Queen Astaria and be closer to areas where the rifts are more active.” I told them. I felt their relief and their sense of adventure rising. “We will depart in the morning with messengers sent ahead to inform of our arrival.” I added with a bow towards them. They spent the rest of the afternoon scouring the King’s garden to assure it was clean from parasitic plant until the evening meal.

*    *    *

We were just reaching the border into Silverstein when we felt the thrill of strong magic erupting in a small village at the border. We forced our oxen to speed up as Meli and myself tracked the energy spiral of magic within this village. What we finally came upon was both a shock and a surprising boon for our investigation. It was a raid but they had others here that could defend against them. It was not the normal military but a mix of village militia with demonic blooded citizens at their side. While Sert and Meli join the fray against these barely two foot tall impish invaders, I focused on the rift tracing it back to it’s origin.

I froze for but a moment as the location became clear in my mind. My mental showed it on the outskirts of Dorestrain which was King Longinus’ lands. It was in the edge of the mountains near a cluster of mining villages. This was both a shock and truly bad news for this mysterious devilish assault. I could neither be convinced nor deny the possibility that Longinus was tangled into this mess presently. I kept the rift locked open but unable to transport anything back to the source. I watched as one of impish creatures attempted to escape as a twisted mess of black and white flames incinerated it from existence.

“Surrender since your escape is impossible!” I screamed over the clashing of weapons. I felt their sudden fear before they remaining ones alive charged at the rift opening to be destroyed. Only a trio had been taken down and prevented from dying to escape us. They were bound in iron chains with silvery sheen on them. Their whining proved these special chains from the demons worked well. “Meli, start treating anyone injured.” I called out. “Sert, get the others to pick any of those plants before they put down roots.” I added just as loudly.

I did not need to look to know they were already obeying before my words left my lips. One of the demon blooded with a trio of farmers with iron pitchforks lead the three imps holding their binding chains in a heavily leather gloved hand. He dragged them across to have them standing on their tiptoes before me. This half-demon was a very large man compared to the well built farmers escorting the prisoners. Other than the reddish skin tone, he looked human but larger by a good head and shoulders to the others. I even had to look up to meet his eyes while my mind remained focused on holding the rift locked down preventing others entering or leaving this place.

“Whom do your serve, imp?” I growled. My annoyance at discovering the threat to the four kingdoms came from within the one of their own kingdoms. “Speak or death will be the least of your fears.” I stated darkly. My one hand hand twisted to be covered in the chitin and claws of my bird-sake name. A function of my nebulous healing that I had not informed Meli manifested. Lightning and sparks flowed along my clawed fingers as I glared at the short imps. With a slash of my clawed hand in the empty air between the trio of imp and myself, their wound glowed and cracked wider to prevent their natural regeneration to heal them. “Speak!” I added as they yowled in pain and true terror.

“Your answer is on the back of their shoulder, brother in hatred for these devilish mongrels.” the half-demon replied. He twisted the chains in his hand and, with a quick downward jerk, had them on their face at my feet. An angelic slave ownership brand was upon their shoulder linking them directly to Lucifer. “They are lackeys of the false prince of the hells.” he added before spitting on the central one. The splatter of spit smoked as they touched the impish devil’s back as his small body convulsed in pain.

“Proof he is collecting minions before he was tossed into the hells.” I breathed out softly. He glanced at me confused before his eyes returned to the squirming imp. I let my Seraphim power touch them discovering these were once cherubs before being dragged down into the hells because of that very mark to become devilish imps. “Fallen cherubs cursed by Lucifer to serve as expendable pawns.” I added.

“Who are you to speak with such knowledge?” the half-demon softly interjected. The three farmers had spread out around us but did not seem to react to our comments. One of the three imp’s eyes rose to meet mine.

“Put us out of our misery, one and only Seraphim.” it croaked out at me. It face dropped back to the ground as I heard the hissing intake of breathe from the half-demon.

“Kestrel, from Atlantis assisting the four kingdoms as requested by King Reagent Palmus and his guardian maid, Lashandra.” I replied calmly but loud. I looked up to meet his wild eyes.

“Danchung, Sera... I mean Kestrel.” he returned. He still looked wild and I sensed his fear in slow pulsing waves of his heartbeat. “I am a blacksmith in this farming village making most of the tools in the best quality metals I can find.” he explained. He held out the chains in his gloved hand showing it to me. “Coal infused iron with some silver blessed by the hearth goddess and the god of the fields and fauna on the farms here about.”

“Very effective like the farmers’ pitchforks, shovels, and hatchets.” I remarked with a nod. “I have not been called that other name in many lifetimes.” I admitted slowly. “I may have been rename Kestrel but it has not made me the Dread Bird, as of yet.” I added. I flashed him a boyish grin nearly as sincere as Sert while adding a shrug to make it seem unimportant. A nervous laugh escaped Danchung but I felt him relaxed without letting his grip on the chains loosen.

“A warning that other angelic types have marked some demons and kept them as pets in this world.” he stated under his breathe to me. “I cannot be sure if this is but a rumour or reality, sir Kestrel of Atlantis.” he added just as quietly.

“That will be a mystery for another day.” I stated. “Meli? Sert?” I called out. “Anything to report?” I asked. I still held the rift open but locked inaccessible from either side. “I have the source located but it complicates things.” I added in Atlantian to them.

“No serious injuries except the three prisoners.” Meli reported easily. She was smiling but I sensed her curiosity at what information I had acquired.

“No plants, not even a seed this time.” Sert commented back. He and Meli returned to stand with me while he maintained purely speaking in Atlantian. “Could this be a different group or have they run out of plants to leave behind?” he asked as he stood by my left side.

“Or they know we can counter their floral pariah?” Meli countered in Atlantian. Danchung looked from one to the other but his eyes were looking up to where their eyes actually were. Meli caught his actions first realizing what this suggested. “Can he see through the glamoury?” she asked nervously.

“With a half-demon, it is very possible.” I remarked in their language.

“I just find it odd that no one else has noticed their height.” Danchung returned looking confused.

“A glamoury that works well on humans and you are the first that has seen through it.” I told him. “Best that is not mentioned to other, understand?” I added quietly.

“We have received word of these events.” he stated instead. “Is this raid different from the others as I am suspecting by your change of language?” he continued quietly.

“No plants or seed which could be because of the prompt response or may suggest a different group being involved.” I admitted directly. “Does the rift feel different from the others we have spotted so far, Meli?” I stated. She shook her head negatively. “The magical essence of this rift match the others even if those others were closed by the time we reached them.” I agreed with her. “Leave us with the quick response or they were not using plants this time to weaken the land.” I concluded.

“You are holding it open but locked from both sides, correct sir?” Meli asked with a little smirk.

“Should we introduce ourselves to those on the other side?” Sert added in Atlantian.

“Walking into the enemies stronghold without knowing what we may face.” I reminded them. “They might be expecting this with my keeping it open without allowing passage through it.” I continued. A vicious grin was forming on my face while Sert prepared his sword and dagger for the altercation on the out side of this rift.

“Queen Astaria would be happy knowing this is solved directly but would also wish a chance to assist.” Danchung informed us. I nodded slowly to him a moment before the sounds of heavily shodded hooves came from the opposite road we had arrived. “I speak her name and she appears.” he added. He dropped to one knee without letting go of the chains in his hand. I barely had time to turn as Astaria appeared upon the scene. Her horse had barely stopped as she vaulted from her saddle. She was not a dainty woman but a muscular tall red haired fully armoured mountain. Her stature and bearing reminded me of the Amazons Sister Pestilence lead all over the globe in isolated settlements.

“Do not knell, report to me, Danchung!” she howled at the man that was barely three-quarters her height while knelling.

“The raid was foiled between the farmers, myself, and our allies from Atlantis, my queen.” he answered without rising. “The Envoy Kestrel has the rift they used locked in place while preventing passage presently.” he added. I saw her eyes glance at the imps’ backs as her face turned red. I could feel her rage at seeing the slave brand on these devilish creatures. A shimmer at her back drew my attention but I cannot be sure my companions spotted her feathery wings flash in and out of existence.

“Did I see wings or am I confused, sir.” Sert murmured in Atlantian.

“Would you allow us to deal with this, Queen Astaria since it is within an ally kingdom?” I stated in the angelic tongue. Her silvery grey eyes locked on me as her colours paled closer to normal again. “I, Seraphim, offer assistance as I have always done to your kind.” I continued quietly. Everything upon the field froze in place as I allowed her to see my cosmic 6 winged form. “I will not ask how you have come to be a queen in this land but I am curious.” I added with a bow of my head. Time restarted while my form appeared like a normal human to all present.

“Which kingdom?” she asked. She had calmed down but was still ready to fight for her people.

“The mountainous edges of Dorestrain near a cluster of mining villages.” I reported. Danhung head snapped up at my words while Sert waited to be in battle.

“Longinus is too good a man to be part of this.” she retorted.

“The place is far from his royal capitol which has me doubting his involvement but the possibility still exist.” I explained calmly. “Will we be allowed to deal with this while keeping peace between the royals of the four kingdoms?” I asked again.

I could see her fighting the urge to accompany use with her troops. She wanted this to end with the increased attacks upon her kingdom. I touched her mind to see her thoughts. She could not see any guilt in Longinus but knew this would reflect badly on him and upon herself if she attacked his lands. I was about to speak but Meli took my words from me.

“Atlantis was requested to assist in this matter to prevent problems between four closely allied kingdoms.” she stated with a hint of bluntness. “We will not be seen as invaders since we are following the path of our investigation and can keep the peace.” she added. Astaria nodded quickly.

“It is the best way to keep peace and solve our mutual problems.” she agreed slowly. “If you can keep the rift open, I will have this end secured to prevent extra problems from either sides.” she informed us. With a hand motions two dozen heavily armed and armoured soldiers came to join her. “Go but make sure this ends it.” she added harder. All three of us nodded to her as hard grim grins showed on our faces.

*    *    *

We exited into a large cavern where seed bags sat along a back wall. My eyes adjusted faster than my companions but all we could find in this first chamber was two magical glyph circles. One circle glowed a dull red showing it as the summoning circle that called the imps and other devils from the hells. The other was the one we had entered this place that held a soft mix of silver and golden throbbing light. The dim lighting gave more shadows than visible spots within the room. The snap of a whip followed by a shriek had us moving cautiously toward a side passage the sounds emanated from.

“Close that rift, slave!” was heard followed by another lashing snap of a whip and a pained shriek. We rushed now while still remaining mostly silent to surprise whom ever was torturing the being that opened the rift. I had kept it open even now prevent this being to close it.

“I cannot.” a young female voice shrieked back. “Something is holding it open.” she added. Another louder snapping of a whip had her howling in pain as small hands pounded onto the rocky floor. When they came into view, I could not stop Sert or myself from dashing forward at the man holding the whip while Meli followed closely targeting the girl. As the whip came down at the young girl, my chitin covered hand grasped it yanking him sideways. Sert knee slammed into the man’s stomach hard followed by a fist to his face. As my protege had the man pinned faced down, I turned my attention towards the girl.

“She is not human, sir” Meli stated as the girl lay on her stomach whimpering in pain. “I am treating her wounds as best I can but...” she continued shaking her head. A lone leathery wing was at her right shoulder while a stub was at her left one. She rose her head to meet my eyes with tear filled inhuman eyes. Black sclera around smouldering green irises shed yellowish red tears. Her open mouth showed fangs and sharp needle like teeth. The horn at her temple was a back sweeping twisted bone coloured thing. Her nose was scrunched back nearly pig like sitting crooked on her small face. Her hands nearly human were clawing at the ground while her feet were cloven. Chains held upon the collar at her neck, manacles at her wrists, and leather straps at her ankles. What I could see of her back was a crisscrossed pattern of old and new whip lashes.

“Rift hurts, please let me close it.” she whined. She half rose her upper body on trembling arms revealing something I feared to see. A slave mark that was not from any devil kin. The mark of the vile Archangel that had me tossed from the Heavens long ago for giving her and her supporters the weapons to defeat Lucifer’s rebellious army. Her body twisted as Meli placed balm upon her wounded back.

“Toss a message back to Queen Astaria that we must let the rift close for now.” Sert suggested. I smirked and nodded before rushing back to the magical circle that was linked to the rift. I quickly penned a note for her and tossed the crumpled message through the rift space. I could not be sure how she would react but I let the rift collapsed after my note was sent to her. It held our location and requested King Longinus to send his army to collect us and the person behind the attacks upon the four kingdoms. When I returned to the other chamber I noticed the girl now sitting still chained but breathing better calmer.

“Feeling better now?” I asked softly.

“She recovered her composure a few moments again, sir.” Meli informed me. The girl looked up at me and nodded slowly. She avoided looking at the man that had been controlling her as Sert had him bound and gagged while using him as a seat. “What else do we need to do before returning to Enclava and Atlantis?” she asked with a smirk.

“We must escort that girl to Queen Astaria to be protected.” I remarked. “I have asked for King Longinus to send troops to collect us, our prisoner, and our new charge.” I explained slowly. The girl’s eyes remained locked on me while I spoke. “Queen Astaria can remove that mark but it will be replaced by hers.” I told the girl directly. Her eyes went wide as I felt fear coming from her. “She will take good care of you and protect you from being used again.” I added. My sword was in my hand and with quick deft motions before she could move, the girl’s collar, wrist manacles, and leather ankle bindings fell away from her body freeing her. Meli was giving me a confused look while Sert remain silently waiting for orders while keeping our prisoner easily under him.

“Only another celestial can replace this mark.” the girl whispered. Her eyes were still wide and fear still flowed from her. “Is he really good unlike her?” she added. The hatred in that single word had Meli flinch from the child. I did not wish to do this twice in a row but I froze our time allow her to feel what I had done.

“I could remove the mark myself but I cannot take you with me, child.” I told her gently. “Seraphim was cast out of their ranks long ago and I do not want all of them to know that I survived, understand?” I continued slowly. She glanced at my companions before her eyes returned to mine. She nodded slowly her agreement. “They know I was that being but it is best they do not know that Queen Astaria is an angel.” I added. A soft giggle escaped her before she place her small hand at her lips twisting it to lock her mouth. I let time return in motions around us as she giggled softly.

“Could you name me, sir?” she asked. “I both devil and demon but seen as nothing but a nameless slave.” she explained looking shyly around her. “I would rather present myself to a Queen bearing a name given to me by the one who saved me.” she added. She looked at her hands while playing with her fingers nervously.

“I will find you the perfect name for you before we reach Queen Astaria, if that is acceptable to you.” I replied. I could not help but smile at the joy flooding from her with my answer. “I am sure my two would like to help in naming you as well.” I added flashing both of them a quick smile.

“You might end up with an Atlantian name.” Sert remarked with a chuckle.

“It may suit her considering how powerful she is.” Meli remarked pensively. The girl giggled gleefully at this but her eyes stayed on me as she smiled. I doubt she had ever smiled in earnest until this day but it did show off her fangs and sharp teeth.

*    *    *

I had been able to collect a few things while we waited the two days for Longinus’ army to arrive with the King himself in their ranks. We had exited the cave and set camp at the entrance of the cave. Our prisoner was still unconscious but it could have been the many hours daily Sert used him as a seat. The glamoury may alter their size visually but their weight as giants was still the same. I saw it pointless warning Sert about this considering all the pain he had put the girl through. Whenever the man seemed to stir and regain sentience, Sert would decide he needed to sit down. I believe Meli understood what was happening but like myself, saw it as a fitting punishment until the four royals had their say about his fate.

The prisoner was placed in a cage on the back of a cart with four guards glaring at him while we travel across the land to the royal capitol of Dorestrain. Within the first day of travel, Queen Astaria’s heavy guards joined us followed by King Ranus’ soldiers. Palmus was waiting at the gate with his own guards informing us that all the other royals where present to judge this man. He also informed that all the raids had ceased when we jumped into the rift to finish this investigation. Lashandra moved with him but her eyes remained locked on the demonic devil girl sitting in front of me on my saddle. I whispered into the girl’s ear making her giggle before she turned to face Palmus and Lashandra.

“I am Sermek Seraph.” she announced proudly. “I will explain my part as a slave during these events that I feel regret taking part in.” she added quickly but sombrely.

“But first we must speak with Queen Astaria first, sweetie.” I remarked. “Can this be arranged while they bring the culprit to his cell?” I continued. “This is the last thing that will allow her to speak freely and be safe afterwards.” I added. Palmus eyes went from me to the girl and back before nodding slowly. Lashandra’s eyes did not move from the girl’s eyes. The girl motioned the guard maid forward and showed her the slave mark secretly.

“Please do not judge me harshly?” she whispered. I felt her shuddering as she held back tears.

“Only if you allow Prince Palmus and myself to be present during your meeting with Queen Astaria if only to give you more protection, miss Seraph.” she whispered back. “You will be judge by your words revealing the dark plot of the one that believes they can own you while harming you.” she continued easily. “I believe Prince Palmus and his father the King will not be able to judge you badly.” she added with a smirk. She suddenly giggle from Sermek was light and nearly musical as I felt her noticing that Lashandra had demonic traits.

We were lead by the two into a room but it was not only Queen Astaria, King Ranus and King Longinus were seated looking at the girl. She walked slowly to stand before the lone Queen and curtsied to her before introducing herself proudly. She pealed down the light cloth covering her branded shoulder as her eyes remained locked on Astaria’s. The hissing breathe that escaped the queen had the others looking confused at Sermek.

“She bares an angelic slave marking, my Prince.” Lashandra whispered to him. “Only another angel can change it but none can remove it from her flesh, spirit, and essence.” she explained in the same whisper to him. “Miss Seraph offers to be enslave to Queen Astaria instead of the one that has marked her originally.” she added. I saw Meli look confused at me while Sert nodded at these words.

“In a grouping of kingdoms, that not only has human peace but keep peace between the humans, demons, angels, and their mixed bloodlines, she asked to be accepted even with her half breed nature.” I stated in the room loudly. The two kings nodded their accepting this. Prince Palmus was smiling as he nodded his own agreement. “Please speak your words to show that this peace will continue if Queen Astaria accept Sermek Seraph’s request.” I added slightly softer.

“If she is no longer just seen as a tool, I accept she becomes one of your citizens, Queen Astaria.” Ranus spoke first. He looked at Longinus, Palmus, and finally at Astaria.

“She must be protected since she wishes to be safe and truly saved.” Longinus stated. “Her forced use in the vile events, can be overlooked with peaceful concessions within Silverstein Kingdom.” he added with a little smirk.

“As I, Prince Palmus, represent my father, King Demetrius, will allow Queen Astaria to do what she wishes while the Kingdom of Cathadrell remains peacefully allied with the Kingdom of Silverstein.” the Prince added in. He bowed deeply towards Astaria as sign of his lands respect and bound to her lands.

Astaria rose from her seat as her wings manifested upon her back. Pristine white feathers, a halo making her crown glow brighter, and her body faintly glowing from under her royal robes. Sermek did not move back from her. She stood straight back as I could feel her tears of fear facing an angel after all the harm done to her at their hands. Astaria stepped forward raising a hand to place it over the slave marking. Sermek shoulder glowed under Astaria’s hand.

“Even with your mixed blood, I call you Sermek Seraph as mine, to protect, raise, and prove your last name is truthful, my new angelic kin.” Astaria stated boldly into the room. “Serve me as your true honour dictates you, understand?” she added quieter. Shock filled Sermek as Astaria pulled her into a tight embrace against her body. The glow that had filled the angelic queen spread into the mixed blood child. Silvery feathers appeared over her lone leathery wing. Her horn shifted from bone shades into pearly tones.

“I thank you, Queen Astaria, to accept her into your house and family.” I stated before dropping to one knee. Sert and Meli followed suit while not fully understanding what they had just witnessed. “If it is permitted, we can remain during the trial as observers and witnesses for Atlantis, according to the signed trade treaties.” I suggested calmly still knelling before them.

“Only if you stop acting as someone below us, and stand as our equal in this matter.” Astaria snapped at me. She was smiling while still holding Sermek in tight grip as if fearing she would disappear. “Do not thank me for accepting such a precious gift from the highest member of the angelic host that will ever exist.” she added in a near whisper to me. She finally released her hold and turned the girl to face me. Nearly human flaming green eyes met mine with silvery tears of joy streaking her face. Her nose, though still piggish, had straightened but her skin still held a reddish tint to it. Her long wing had folded around her right shoulder while upon her left shoulder the emblem of Astaria’s royal house now glowed white. She curtsied towards me as her smile was bright. Her fangs remained but the other teeth had softened in their sharpness.

“My duty had me acting in her favour, Queen Astaria.” I replied softly. I rose to stand while my companions mimicked my actions fluidly in sync. “I am pleased to have assisted all of you but most especially for helping her.” I added in a near whisper.

“We will leave the prisoner stew for today and gather tomorrow to pass our judgment while hearing from him why he attempted these actions against our four Kingdoms.” Longinus proclaimed for the group. The other nodded quickly their agreement. Astaria returned to her seat while Lashandra, with a quick whisper from Palmus, brought a smaller chair to be placed beside the queen’s seat. With a quick hand signal, Sermek sat beside Astaria while the queen kept a hand upon her shoulder. “This will also give our noble and helpful guests time to send word back to Atlantis and for us about the resolution of their investigation.” he added with a bowed head towards me.

I bow back to him easily. Palmus and Lashandra escorted us to the room prepared for us while Astaria and Sermek drifted slowly behind us. I knew I would have to explain a few things to my companions and have minor discussions with the royals. This was the fact of most adventures where we got more directly involved in the events within other lands while forging the beginning of a larger peace treaty to save the world. The vision of Atlantis being destroyed flashed in my mind without causing me to react outwardly. This was the path I had to walk even if it was not part of my duties to humanity.

*    *    *

“How did you know she was an angel?” Meli nearly shrieked at Sert. He shrugged back.

“I got a glimpse of her wings before we crossed through the rift.” he answered quietly. He had no arrogance about him having noticed this fact that Meli had missed. “It was not exactly important at the time so I remained quiet about it until Queen Astaria showed it personally.” he explained calmly and casually. “It was not a threat to us so not a true problem, correct?” he added. His shy boyish grin faced off against Meli’s stunned face.

“Good perception is a great skill for a warrior to possess.” I remarked. “You can notice an illness or select a plant by instinct while he can perceive truth and intention with his instinct.” I told her as explanation. “You may eventually gain this ability as we travel together.” I added.

“It is still the changes Sermek went through by being claimed by the queen that has me surprised.” Sert commented.

“That was a bit of a shock, especially her eyes.” Meli chimed in.

“Astaria did not claim her as a slave but as her kin.” I explained softly. “She replaced her slave mark with the emblem of her royal house making Sermek nearly equal to a princess in Silverstein.” I continued. “The child was given a new life as part of Astaria’s family which gave her this new form which cannot be removed by anyone else.” I concluded. Sert nodded as if understanding while Meli looked more shocked than surprise. I had not considered Astaria would take her into her house this completely which had me joyously shocked. I did not show it directly but my kneeling towards her showed that I saw and respected Astaria’s honourable actions.

A soft knock sounded on my door while the click of the small meal service door opening. Sert opened the door to find Longinus standing their without protective guards. Meli retrieved the tray of food plates sent for our evening meal upon the table. Longinus entered slowly and soundlessly into the room while Sert closed the door. The king motioned towards the table still remaining silent. We took our places at the table while the King sat across from me at the table.

“You seemed troubled, sir.” I stated. I let my companions eat while I focused upon Longinus.

“From items and documents found in the cavern, this was a religiously directed attack for their lone god to infiltrate our mutual lands.” he informed me. “We have many a god and goddess spread out through our lands but this lone deity seems driven to erase all other deities from this world.” he continued. “I fear what it will do next to claim religious and spiritual dominance over every land that exist.” he concluded angrily.

“Most of the older deities exist in this world because of the magical essence that exist.” I revealed to him. “This lone god seems to only require followers to exist and manipulate this world without setting foot here personally.” I continued slowly. “The magical essence in the world is waning and will eventually disappear all together leaving only that single deity acting upon this world.” I explained grudgingly. “It is the unfortunate outcome where faith and fear is all that is left.” I concluded. He sighed and nodded slowly back at me.

“And how will that affect those that are not human living in our world?” he returned hesitantly.

“Slowly become human through cross breeding and lower magical genetic matter showing in them.” I replied.

“It is correct from my medical studies that the genetics will follow and change to best survive in the new changing world.” Meli confirmed quickly. “It is how everything alive grows and survives by evolving.” she added.

“But why must this one god be allowed to continue existing while all the other deities disappear?” he asked more aggressively. “What make it more special than those we already follow?”

“Nothing.” I remarked bluntly. “It is just how the world is changing as time passes all of us by.” I continued calmer. “Even Atlantis changes to continue forward but holds onto the magic that give them their long lives within the aging world.” I revealed casually.

“Two hundred and fifteen years of age making me finally seen as an adult.” Sert surmised quickly. He shrugged as Longinus gave him a shocked look. “We are also much taller than we appear when travelling the outside world.” he added. The shy boyish grin flashed at the king sitting across from us. I could feel his shock and curiosity as he tried accepting this information given to him.

“Best you only discovered more about the Atlantian citizens during a visit, King Longinus.” I told him with a wry smile. “I am only human but have old abilities allowing me to stand shoulder to shoulder with them because of my honour and my beliefs.” I explained softly. “But their rumours that I am a lost child of their race, is not a reality that I will admit.” I added. The soft chuckle from Sert and giggle from Meli had the mood lighten around us and in Longinus. He did want to ask if I would interfere with this one god’s machinations to claim the world as his own but seemed unable to say it out loud.

I shook my head and he sighed while nodding back to me. He understood a part of my abilities while seeing it as not reading his mind but his body language and comments so far. I would not correct him allowing our meal to be in a peaceful silence and heartfelt acceptance. The trial was fast as the defendant could say nothing to defend his actions against the four kingdoms. Sermek’s account of the events she was forced into preforming made the four rulers and the combined guards to turn away from simply kicking him out of their territories still alive. The trial ended with the man beheaded and his corpse burned. My team did not comment or reject the sight of a man being killed within the course of justice. With this done, we started back towards the city state of Cathadrell with Prince Palmus, Lashandra, and their small retinue of guards.

It was a more relaxed trip giving my companions a chance to discover things on their own. Meli was finally able to examine the natural flora and even collect a few samples to attempt growing them in Atlantis. It was her way to research new plants and discover medicinal properties which could be added to her healers’ bag. Sert did get a chance to spar with Lashandra which proved he still needed a few more intense lessons dealing with new combat styles. He also sparred with the handful of guards accompanying us fairing much better than against the guardian maid. I had worried at first that it was him holding back while facing a woman but he fought easily against the two female guards travelling with us.

I did get a chance to spar against Lashandra which made my doubts vanish. I had needed to fight at my best to match her without pulling out any tricks. My regular speed, my normal defensive stance, and perception kept me safely challenging her as an equal. Her strength was above average for her size and she was faster than the other guards but nothing truly abnormal to my knowledge. Prince Palmus was not simply standing aside as he also sparred but it seemed that the guards held back against him. Lashadra, Sert, and myself gave him a more direct testing hinting that she had been training him. The other guards looked mildly shocked at how skilled their Prince truly was in the martial arts.

A week passed between the departure of Longinus’ castle and being given good parting upon the docks of Cathadrell. We did have a small moment of fear when a rift opened near us during our words of departure with Palmus and Lashandra. Sermek, Danchung, and Astaria stepped out to join the words of good parting and safe travels. Sermek pulled me aside to whisper her gratitude for my help. We left them while Sermek rifted the guests from Silverstein back home. Once more we were upon the deck of the Herald returning to Atlantis, returning home.