Fairytale (Once 4)

By Alyson Serena Stone

The war has started....
After a jousting accident, Xandria lays in wait, waiting to see what is going to happen to its young kind, Vicar Morninghelm. The royal guard is out for blood, trying to find who has killed Vicar. Meanwhile, Dreu and Dain are on the run for their lives. Dak Morninghelm eyes the north hoping it will build morale for his own legions. Amberfall and Ryanon tap into Ancient Magic with the hopes of destroying an ancient Dark Lord. Meanwhile, Shineydance whispers of Matilda's coming-the queen that everyone forgot about.

Book Four in the Once Series!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alyson Serena Stone
• Release date: Jan 20, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463087480

Alyson Serena Stone

Alyson Serena Stone hails from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. She began her writing career in 2010 on fanfiction.net and fictionpress.com. She has published over two hundred stories on those sites. When not writing, she came be found reading, watching bad movies, and listening to heavy metal music. She would love to hear feedback from her readers, so don't hesitant to drop a review. Okay, enough of that strange third person stuff. So...About Me.... Top 5: Books: 1. Harry Potter by J.K Rowling 2. Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas 3. A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J Maas 4. Cleopatra: Daughter of the Nile by Kristiana Greogory 5. Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder TV 1. Reign 2. Game of Thrones 3. Shadowhunters 4. The 100 5. The Fosters Movies: 1. Harry Potter 2. Disney Animation 3. Cinderella 2015 4. Gettysburg 5. Bandslam CDS 1. Nightwish: Imaginaerum 2. Within Temptation: The Heart of Everything 3. Delain: The Human Contradiction 4. Nightwish: Endless Forms Most Beautiful 5. Within Temptation: The Unforgiving Songs: 1. Nightwish: Elan 2. Nightwish: Ghost Love Score (Floor Jansen Style!) 3. Within Temptation: What Have You Done? 4. Delain: Here Come the Vultures 5. Arch Enemy: War Eternal Where Else Can You Find Me? Goodreads: Serena Fanfiction: Aphrodite-Venus-u.k National Novel Writing Month: AlysonSerenaStone Youtube: Alyson Serena Stone

Book preview

Chapter One: Winds of the West

The wind beat against her window, making it rattle, making everything sound louder than it actually was. It was almost like they were calling out to her, begging to her come and see what treasures they had to offer. She paid it no mind as she flipped through the pages of yet another lengthy report.

Her candles flickered as she kept on reading. She knew she could do this at another time, but there was no time like the present. After all, it was hard to tell where tomorrow might bring her.

Though her nation of Astrad was small, it was rich and it was this wealth that made men come after her and her crown. So many of them thought that a woman could not rule in her own right and wished for her Xandrian cousins to claim her crown. Though the fact that Xandria was in the middle of a bloody civil war did help, she still could not get them out of her mind. Once Xandria got its act together, they very well could come knocking on her door and take everything away from her.

She could feel everyone watching her all the time, waiting for her to make that one fatal mistake. Though Sewal, her bastard half-brother, was her closest advisor, there were times that she felt she could not trust even him. Her beloved father had warned her not to trust anyone besides herself; those were the only words she could remember from any of her parents. She had never known her mother.

Her gaze flickered over the map on the wall. It did her some good to keep a careful eye on her Xandrian cousins’ moves. One could never tell when this could work out to her advantage. After all, she did have a claim to the throne. Maybe it would do them some good to understand the might of a female ruler.

Matilda, Sewal said as he entered her study. He stopped in front of her large desk, looking carefully at her. I’m surprised to see that you’re still up.

Matilda just eyed him as he placed another thick stack of paperwork in front of her. This is the part that they always leave out. No one ever prepares for the paperwork.

He just laughed. Well, someone does have to make sure everything runs smoothly. He eyed the map on the wall. I see they’ve been quiet busy.

She nodded. It appears that way. Though it is hard to say if the movements are current or not. It appears that they just seem to be running each other in circles.

Sewal raised an eyebrow. Prepares or we could not be aware of all of the movements.

Matilda nodded. The thought has crossed my mind. It would such a shame if someone were to strike them while they were so weak.

Sewal eyed her. You can’t mean what I think you mean.

Matilda leaned back in her chair. Think about it, Sewal. For years, nations have tried to wage war on us for our wealth. What would happen if we were the ones invading?

I just hope this is all theory. You know we would not have a chance in a place like Xandria. We don’t have the military forces.

She smiled. Ah, but that was before all of this. They are a divided and weak nation. They surely are not watching their borders. If we were to sneak in as friends to one side, then we could turn on them at the right moment. Think of it. We could rule Xandria and never have to fear an invasion from them again.

Sewal tugged at his collar. This is all just theory, isn’t it?

Matilda just eyed him. Just promise me that you will think on it. We could take them.

Sewal just smiled and shook his head. Sometimes I really don’t know what to make of you.

She shrugged. I don’t know what to make of you either. She placed her report on the desk. I think it’s time that all of you start to realize that I am your ruler, woman or not. It doesn’t matter that most of you think as a woman as being a weak ruler or unfit to rule. It is my given right by the gods and you will listen to you or gods help you.

Sewal actually took a step back. I understand. I’m just stating the facts. We have to forget about Xandria and worry about our problems at home. We have lived in peace since Trelia was put under the curse.

They are not under the curse anymore, Matilda pointed out. We don’t know how long it will be before they turn their eyes on us. War is expensive and they are a very greedy nation.

Sewal shifted his weight around. I know how they are, but we cannot allow ourselves to be drawn in by them. We are fine here.

Matilda got up and walked over to the window. She stared out at the never-ending waters. The ships in the harbour bumped as the waves hit them. The rain and wind seemed to be picking up every second. We are an island nation and island nations are weak. Our wealth is not going to hold out forever. We need another outpost if we are to become a world power. It’s all the council talks about these days.

Sewal looked at his boots. I know, but I don’t think this is what they had in mind.

Matilda rounded on him. What they had in mind or what you had in mind? They are fully aware of my claim to the Xandrian throne and what it would mean to our nation. They know the stakes, but also understand the rewards.

That may be so, but we do have to think of the bigger picture.

She looked back out at the moonlight harbour. There may be a storm brewing, but that is the right time to strike. You have to go after your foes when they are at their weakest. She looked back over at the map. If you wait until they have the chance to regain themselves, then everything you hoped for will be lost.

That may be so, but I still don’t think it’s in our best interests. We just simply don’t have the man power or resources to pull this off.

Matilda rolled her eyes. I think you have been listening to my foes for far too long, brother. You are starting to sound like them.

Sewal bowed his head. Forgive me, but I do wish you would consider my words.

She smiled. I am, but I think now is the right time.

He just sighed. I don’t suppose there is any chance of changing your mind.

Bring me news from Xandria on why we shouldn’t, then I will hear you out.

I will do my best. He turned and walked out of the room, leaving her to her thoughts.

She looked back out at the window. A part of her knew she should listen to him and really consider his words, but there was something in her gut that was telling her otherwise. She just knew that now was the right time to attack.

Dreu eyed Dain, who was watering the horses. There was something about him that Dreu didn’t like. After all, it was because of Dain that the king was dead or whatever he was. They had not heard either way about the king. All they knew was the nation seemed to be in a state of uproar and confusion. If the king was dead, no one knew who was going to succeed the throne. If he wasn’t dead, no one knew anything about the king’s wellbeing. It was just a mess; there was no doubt about that.

Dain came over to him. I think we need to head toward Kjallaksstaoir. We are going to need supplies if we are going to keep riding.

Dreu just nodded, staring down the road. He didn’t like travelling by the roads, but this part of Xandria was so remote that they could ride for days without seeing a soul. They had passed a few farms, but had seen no signs of life. Judging by the rotting state of things around here, no one had been around for years.

Dain handed Dreu his horse. We probably should keep moving. I don’t even know who controls this part of the country.

Dreu mounted his horse. At least going through Kjallaksstaoir will allow us to hear the news, then we will not have to guess anymore.

Dain climbed onto his own horse. I was thinking the same thing. He sparred it, enjoying the feeling of movement beneath his body. We do need supplies though. Who knows how long it will be before we even find Captain Morninghelm. The rumour is that he and Queen Ariana are together, but no one seems to know for sure. King Vicar only let those closest to him know the details.

Dreu just nodded. He wished that Dain had known more; it certainly would had made everything so much easier. Nevertheless, there had to be a reason for what Dain had done. People didn’t try to kill a monarch without a reason.

Dain eyed him. Are you feeling okay?

Dreu just nodded. I’m just ready to get off this wretched road.

I think we all could do with some time off.

Dreu’s gaze flickered upwards as a murder of crows raced across the sky, screaming their song. The blackness stood out against the sun, making them look more like a moving cloud of death than anything. The skin on his arms peddled for reasons that were beyond him. A murder of crows was nothing to worry about. It was as commonplace as a child dying of an illness. Still, he did not like being under their darkness.

Dain’s gaze also flickered upwards. They say that crows are a sign of death. I just hope it’s all a fairytale.

Dreu nodded. Everything is a fairytale. The trouble is finding out what is real and what is all fantasy.

Dain urged his horse forward. Then, we shouldn’t give them any more time to put their curse on us.

The two of them raced forward, leaving the murder of crows to their backs. Dreu could not help but feel like there was indeed a storm brewing, one that he felt was going to be the worst of them all.

The dust kicked up in his face as they came to closer to the town. The people who stared out at them had a haunted look to them, as if they had lost all of their hope. Some of them were so weak that they could barely stand. The dead littered the ground as rats climbed over the bodies.

Dreu looked around. Many of the falling down huts looked like no one had lived in them in months. He had known things were bad in Kjallaksstaoir, but this was far worse than he had expected. It was as if the land itself was dead.

As they rode toward the centre of town, there was no masking the scent of death. It was so overwhelming that it nearly made Dreu pass out. His looked over at Dain, who was pale and blinking quickly. The rot found its way into Dreu’s body, making it feel as if death was coming for him.

He looked around at the shops. Like the rest of the town, most of them were in a state of rot. A few stands that were set up were only selling rotten vegetables and greenish meats. The molded fruits were twisted to the point of being nothing more than dull blots. The merchants watched them, looking like skeletons out of a horror story.

The winds blew out of the west, giving them some relief from the smell, but just as quickly as it came, it was gone.

Dreu slowly climbed down from his horse, wincing as he landed in gods only knew what. Dain stood beside him, looking around at the impossible situation. A dog walked by them, not paying any attention to them. Dreu was fully aware of how hard the merchants were trying not to look at them.

Well, this is a warm welcome, Dain said as he looked around. A few people actually darted back into their huts. You would think that they were afraid of strangers.

Dreu’s eyes flickered around. I don’t know if it’s so much a fear of strangers or a fear of something much bigger. He looked around, not seeing anything that struck him as being odd. I think there is something more going on here.

We are pretty close to where the thorn wall was, maybe they could still be feeling the effects of the curse, Dain offered.

Dreu just simply nodded. The sooner they got out of this place the better.

Teffany Pyrehorn stared down at her unmoving husband’s form. She could hear the whispers on the other side of the door. There was no certainly that the king would wake up and if he didn’t, there was the matter of succession. She had sent them out, unable to put up with their words. How could they think of something that small whenever the king was lying here, somewhere between life and death?

Vicar, she whispered, leaning over his form. I don’t know if you can hear me or not, but we really do need to you back. I don’t know how I am going to live without you. Her gaze flickered back over to the door. Her future was uncertain if anything happened to Vicar. She knew that a lot of people were not happy that he had divorced Jessimond without letting her defend herself. Teffany and the king had married in secret. Teffany had been a low member of court, but she had always know that Vicar was watching her, always know that he would make his move on her.

She still didn’t see how the curse had been broken. Jessimond was not the king’s true love. It just wasn’t possible. Those two together did not make any sense.

Teffany touched Vicar’s hair, willing her touch to wake him up or give her a sign that he was still here, still aware of her touch. There was nothing, not even a change in his breathing. She sat back further in her chair. Please, wake up. If not for yourself, but for me.

The voices of the advisors seemed to be getting louder. Whatever they were talking about must had been getting intense.

She looked outside at the sun filled day. How could it be so nice out when the world was falling apart? The gods had a rather cruel sense of humour.

Teffany touched Vicar’s hair. You have to wake up. We are going to find whoever did this to you and make them pay. She kissed his forehead. They cannot be allowed to get away with what they have done.

She glared at the door as someone banged on it. How dare they try to enter now? She had already put them out once. Wasn’t that enough for them to get the message? She looked back down at Vicar as the banging only grew louder. Whoever was on the other side she have a good reason for taking away her peace time.

She quickly got to her feet and marched over to the door. This had better be good! The king is trying to rest! she snarled as she eyed the person standing on the other side. The advisors all frowned at her and she could had sworn she heard someone whisper whore.

Tyon bowed his head. Forgive me, but I need to speak to you. It is a matter of most importance.

Teffany glared at him as she opened the door wider. This had better be good.

He nodded. It is. I think you will find it of great interest. He stepped into the room, wincing as she slammed the door shut. Good...I hope it did hurt his ears.

Teffany crossed her arms over her chest as she looked at him. Well, what is it? The king cannot take any visitors right now.

Tyon’s gaze shifted over to his best friend’s limp form. Has there been any change?

Teffany slowly shook her head. The Healers haven’t found anything either. They all say that he will wake whenever it is the right time.

Tyon just sighed. I think all of this waiting is the worst thing. Knowing Vicar, he will wake and blame us all for what has happened. I think a lot of people are to be sent to the block before all of this is over.

Teffany winced. I just hope he sends the right people, not an innocent.

He will. He doesn’t kill those who support the crown, just those who dare stand up against him.

Teffany nodded. You said you had news.

Tyon pulled out a sheet of paper. Juel Firedew has been through all of the guards and one of them appears to be missing. Dain Greatvalor is his name. He’s not really high up in the royal guard. If they hadn’t done a roll call, no one would have noticed his absence. He handed the paper over to Teffany. This is what he looks like.

Teffany looked down at the young man. There didn’t seem to be anything great about him. His looks didn’t make him stand out in any way. In fact, they were the prefect looks that would allow him to blend in with a crowd. And what is being done to locate him?

Firedew seems to think that he will come back. He lives in the city, so he may be spending a couple of days with them. Tyon paused. I don’t think so. There was one thing that Greatvalor stood out in.

Teffany raised an eyebrow. And what was that? As she spoke the words, she knew what the answer was going to be.

Jousting.

Chapter Two: Black

Dak ran his fingers over the map of Hefn. There was no way they were going to be able to pull this one off. The city was surrounded by thick mountains and the walls had never been brought down by any army. Then, there was the matter of the Hefn legions. There was no doubt in his mind that they were not going to go down without giving his legions a fight.

There had to be a way to get around this. Hefn had to fall. There was just no getting around it. Once Hefn had fallen, they would have a shot at Vicar. Once the Cragshields had lost everything, Vicar would more than likely lose one of his most powerful allies.

Aymon raised an eyebrow. Are you even listening to a thing I’ve been saying?

Dak’s gaze flickered upwards to the duke. Sorry, I was just thinking.

Aymon crossed his arms over his chest. I could tell. Ryanon was right about you. You really can only think about one thing at a time.

Dak narrowed his eyes. I am fully focused on this right now. He looked back down at the map. We need to find out how many legions there are within the city’s walls.

I don’t see how we are going to find that out for certain. Aymon rested his fists on the table, looking carefully at the map. Even if we were to send someone in, it would be impossible to get an exact amount.

Dak nodded. It would be impossible, but it would be better than going into it blind.

Yes and they could also hide troops in the barracks and we would not even see them. What if we don’t factor them into and we go in with far too few men? Or what if we go in with too many and end up getting trapped? I don’t like it. Aymon shook his head. I don’t like it at all. If something doesn’t feel right, then we shouldn’t do it.

Dak ran his hand over his unshaven face. That may be so. Like it or not, we are not going to go into this not knowing everything. It’s no different than any other battle that we’ve been in. He looked at Aymon. Name one battle that you’ve went into knowing everything.

Aymon opened and closed his mouth. We’ve gone into battles knowing more than this. I would never take my legions into a situation like this.

Dak just shook his head. That is why we are going to have to come up with a way to get into Hefn. There’s no other way around it.

Aymon looked back down at the map. It’s just no good, no matter what we do.

I know. I know. Dak’s eyes shifted over the map. There really was no easy way to do this. Sending the Nature Fairies in first isn’t right either and the Sciscio are useless since there’s no water around the city.

Aymon shook his head. It’s just not good, not good at all.

Dak pinched his temples. We just can’t keep going this. We are not making any progress. The more we wait, the more time by brother has to gather his strength and he will be doing everything he can to make himself stronger. I just know it.

Maybe we should go to bed and come back to this later. I find that it’s easier to focus after a good night’s sleep. We’ve been at this for too long.

Dak’s gaze flickered out the window with a frown. When had it gotten so dark? He looked back down at the map with a sigh. Maybe you’re right.

Aymon started toward the door. I knew you would see it my way.

Dak looked at him. What’s got you in such a hurry?

The duke turned and smiled. Well, I’m now married and you know that marriage has certain duties.

Dak shivered as a vision of Aymon and Alse in bed. Not one he wanted to have...That’s my sister you’re talking about.

Aymon’s smirk widened. Who said anything about your sister? If I am remember correctly, your family has a history of having multiple bed partners.

Dak raised an eyebrow. You do realize that you’ve just admitted to cheating on my sister?

Aymon shrugged. It’s not really cheating if she approves. We are just married in name, nothing more. We both needed a spouse with power and got that, now we really have no use for each other. It’s really a common thing if you stop and think about it.

Dak shook his head. You do realize how many times Ryanon has been called in to kill cheating husbands, don’t you?

Aymon started walking backwards. Now, Alse would never do something like that and I know you wouldn’t kill me in my sleep.

It’s not me you’ve got to worry about. This is more of Ryanon’s area.

She likes me, she would never kill me.

I wouldn’t count on that.

Aymon just waved him away as he walked out the door, leaving Dak alone once again with his maps and battle plans.

Dak lowered himself down into a chair, staring at the pinned plans on the wall. Nothing was going to work. The more he thought about it, the more it became clear. He really did have no idea how they were going to pull this off. He had looked at it from many different angles and nothing could change it.

It just wasn’t right to send the Nature Fairies in first, though that was the move that made the most sense. He hadn’t brought the idea up to Amberfall at all. If they didn’t like it, then it was very likely that they would leave for Zania, a fear that haunted him every day.

The door banged open. Dak looked up as Ryanon stepped into the room. She rested her hands on her hips, giving him a harsh look, before marching over to him. He raised an eyebrow as she stopped in front of him.

Can I help you? Dak asked.

Do you have any idea what time it is? Ryanon snapped. I thought you said you would be back before dark and it is clearly dark now. She pointed to the window. Have you not noticed?

Dak eyed her. I am fully aware that it’s dark, but these things take time.

Ryanon went over to the map. I don’t see you making any progress.

Dak got to his feet and stood beside her. It’s a tough go, no matter what we do.

Ryanon just nodded. I just know we can’t stay here for much longer. You know Nightstone has told your brother where we are. I’m surprised there hasn’t been more attacks.

Dak rubbed his cheeks. Yes, that has been striking me as rather odd. Vicar should have attacked again by now. I don’t see him letting a defeat stop him. If he were to lay a siege, he could easily starve us out. He knows this, he just has to know it.

Then, why isn’t he?

Dak shook his head. I have no idea. Something isn’t right.

Dak did eventually let Ryanon pull him back to their chambers. The tables in the room was covered with her own notes on the Black Moon Objects and the Ancient Troglodytes. While they were finding more information on them, everything was still pretty limited.

Ryanon sighed as she lowered herself down onto the soft pillows. You are right about something.

He pulled off his tunic. Oh....I’m surprised you’re admitting that I am right about something.

She shrugged. Don’t get used to it. It’s not going to happen very much.

He laid down next to her. And what it is that I’m right about?

She propped herself up on her elbow. Vicar not taking advantage of the situation. He could surround us and take us, but he’s not. He knows the land and knows how easy it would be to take us, but he’s not. She shook her head. I don’t know your brother that well, but this isn’t right. Any leader would be able to see it.

Dak looked at her. We need to get some news from Skalavik. It’s the only way we are going to find out what is going on.

Shall I send a note to our legions first thing then?

He shook his head. I think it would be best if it came directly from me. After all, if I am going to be their king, they are going to have to get used to receiving things from me.

Ryanon smiled. So, are you going to write it by yourself?

He nudged her. Yes, then you are going to read over it for me. I don’t want to come across as an idiot.

That’s what I thought would happen. She laid back further against her pillows. It’s how it always seems to go with you.

He just rolled his eyes. Yeah, yeah. You don’t have to rub it in.

She rolled over onto her side so that she was fully facing him. I just think things are going to change. Maybe there will be a day when people like you don’t have be ashamed of who they are.

His eyes narrowed. I am not ashamed of who I am.

Well, there are some people who are. Maybe once you are on the throne, you will be able to inspire people to see that they can do anything.

He just shrugged. It sound nice in theory, but people never change. It just never fails.

You really do need to have a positive outlook on life. Since when are you always so negative?

I don’t know. Since when are you so positive?

She just shook her head as she moved closer to him. We are so close. We will pull this off. Vicar will be put off the throne and you will rule. Though I haven’t decided what life will be like. I just know you had better listen to me. We all know that I’m the smart one in this relationship.

Dak rolled his eyes. You do know that I just let you think that.

She touched the side of his face. We’ll see about that.

He just shook his head as he slowly closed his eyes. It was actually true. She was a lot smarter than he was, but he would never tell her that. It would just add way too much to her ego.

She slapped his arm. Are you sleeping? I thought we were actually in the middle of something.

He rolled back over. If that’s how you are going to treat me, then I cannot speak to you anymore.

We’ll just see how long that lasts.

Dak closed his eyes, but sleep didn’t come. Hefn haunted his mind. There just had to be a way to get into the city that did not involve losing a lot of life. A city could not be unbreakable. History was littered with stories of mighty cities falling to lesser foes and never to reemerge from the ashes. This time could be like that. Of course, there were just as many stories of the siege failing and the sieges actually ended up caught in the middle of a death trap-meaning they ended up being surrounded themselves.

There just simply had to be something they were missing. It was probably something so simple. He wished that he had managed to get his captain of the guard papers out of his office before he had been forced to flee. It had records of everything, even the number of legions stationed at each city.

He had even gone as far as to ask Irondrifter how many legions were at Hefn, but the general didn’t know. That whole thing had struck Dak as being odd. How could a general not know? Unless, maybe he was like Dak and all of his important papers were still back at home base.

Ryanon’s breathing had gone smooth and deep. He wished that he could fall asleep like her. Nothing really seemed to keep her up at night, unless she hid it a lot better than he did. He was glad that she had managed to find out a little bit more about the Black Moon Objects. It was about time that they started having something go right.

He rolled back over to face her. She really did look like an angel. He loved how sleep made her look so innocent like, making it seem as if she would never hurt a living soul. That was the problem men seemed to have. They thought and saw women as being breakable, but, in reality, they should never let their guard down around them.

Dak woke to the sounds of running water. Ryanon’s side of the bed was empty. He reach over and touched it. It was cold, she had been in the bathing room for a long time then. He sat up, his gaze flickered over the bathing room’s door. Maybe she needed some encouragement to get her moving. After all, he had a long day of staring at the maps of Hefn ahead of him.

He padded over the door, slowly opening it. He could make her outline out faintly in the steam. It was a good thing he had come in here; she was using up all of the hot water. There was nothing more that he hated than a cold shower.

She slowly turned around as he came further into the room. I was wondering when I would see you.

He started peeling off his clothes, his eyes racing over her wonderful body. Well, I’m here now. I thought you weren’t a morning person.

She dipped her head back into the spray. I’m not, but you have a habit of using up all the hot water. I thought I would beat you to it this morning.

He just shook his head as he stepped under the water. You really do have a twisted version of reality. I think you really are confused.

She slapped his arm. You are the one with a confused view on reality.

He watched as the water poured over her body. He wanted to touch her. No, he needed to touch her. He slowly moved closer to her. I think you are the one making me confused.

She raised an eyebrow at him. And how so?

He wrapped his arms around her wet body, letting her warmth course through him. You don’t know what kind of power you hold over me.

It’s about time you admit that I’m the one in charge. She shook her head, spraying more water over him.

Dak just smiled, letting the water run over his body. You can just on thinking that.

She moved closer to him, coming out of the steam. Just remember that we are going to do great things. We are going to make everything okay in the world.

Well, one thing that I am going to have introduce is never-ending hot water. He winced as the water grew colder, sending goosebumps erupting all over his skin. I always counted on Aliss using all the hot water, not you.

She shrugged. I guess you shouldn’t have decided to sleep in. Weren’t you the one who told me that it’s best to be up early?

Why does everything I tell you come back to bite me?

Ryanon stepped out of the shower. I don’t know. I guess you are just going to have to think about your words.

Dak just shook his head as the water grew icy cold. One thing was clear: he couldn’t go out like this. Maybe a cold shower would do him some good.

Everything was black. He didn’t know where he was, but he could hear the Dark Knight and Dark Princess talking. He wasn’t sure what they were talking about, but everything in him knew that they were talking about him. What else did they have to talk about?

He pulled his thick robe up closer around him. Even though it was late summer, he couldn’t get his body to warm up. He figured that if he were to touch another living soul, he would turn them into ice. It would actually be fun to watch, but it would take away whatever power he had.

Dark Knight had assured him that he would return to his former glory. He had seen it in a vision. However, Dark Knight really hadn’t provided him with a lot of details on what would happen. In fact, when questioned, he seemed to kind of dance around the subject. It was really was annoying-something that would have be dealt with as soon as he regained his strength.

The stars filled the night, beaming down on him as if he was the star of a theatre show. Everything was ready, but he just wasn’t. He had to get stronger.

He had heard the whispers of war in the nations. Everyone was off fighting and had left their home bases unprotected. It really couldn’t get any better than that. It was almost too good, too perfect.

He just had to get it back together, had to show them that he was not broken and still could destroy them, just as he had done before.

We think we should start moving again.

He looked up at Dark Knight. We never used to move under the cover of night. He slowly got to his feet. It just shows how much the times have changed.

Dark Knight nodded, not looking him directly in the eye. Times have indeed changed. We’ll get our old followers back. Once they learn of our return, they will come back.

How can you be so sure? We don’t know if any of them are even alive, he pointed out.

Dark Knight looked up at the sky. Everything is going to be okay. I just know it. He looked back down at him. I think it would be best not to let the others here of this. If they were to get wind of your doubts, everything would fall apart.

He looked up at the sky, listening to the whispers of the whispering wind. The stars and the plants were all in line, but everything was not well. He had to do something. He had to restore himself to his former glory and crush them all.

Those who had made him suffer for so long we going to find out what he was capable of.

Chapter Three: Something to Celebrate

The ocean breeze lifted up the ends of her hair, blowing red strands into her face. She reached, taming it upon her touch. If only the world was that, able to be tamed with just the touch of a hand.

Rasorin was still in her mind. The fact that he was moving in Frost Cave Asylum and that Shinydance had predicted him coming back to power did not sit well. If the Dark Wizard and Nightstone were to meet up, she sure didn’t want to be around.

Speaking of Shinydance, the little fairy was dancing up the loading ramp, with a broom in hand. The others had groaned when they found out that Shinydance was going with them to Xandria, but she had to go. She was unlike anything Nature Fairy that Amberfall had ever seen. She could have visions. The visions of a Nature Fairy were almost always right. If Shinydance had anymore visions, Amberfall wanted to make sure that she was the first to hear about them.

She walked up the loading ramp where Shinydance had started sweeping. She was humming a song under her breath, completely unaware of what was going on around her. Maybe it would be best if Shinydance stayed out of the main battle, not only for her own safety, but for the safety of the entire group.

Amberfall put her hand on the other fairy’s shoulder, causing her to jump. I think the ramp is plenty clean.

Shinydance bowed, nearly dropping her broom in the process. Yes, Your Majesty. With her broom in hand, she started skipping up the ramp.

Rolling her eyes, Amberfall followed her up the ramp.

The deck was full of life as the troops bustled around; the officers shouted orders, verbally punishing those who did not comply. The War Lords landed on a neighbouring ship, much to Amberfall’s surprise. It wasn’t as if she actually wanted to sail with them, but she did kind of expect them to at least come over and talk to her.

Frostfire stood next to her, carefully studying what was going on. His wings were still out, the feathers on the tips blew in the gentle wind. We are ready. Even the human ship is ready.

Amberfall jerked her head. Good. She looked up at the raised deck where the ship’s captain was standing. The captain caught her eye and her nod.

Forward! the captain yelled.

The ship jolted forward. Amberfall started back at the Zanian shore as it grew smaller and smaller. The sea breeze beat against her face. This was it...This was actually happening. They were sailing off to war.

The merpeople jumped through the water, crying out words of support and guidance. She wished they could enlist the help of the merpeople, but there was no way they would survive in the colder Xandrian waters.

Frostfire leaned against the railing, tucking his wings in, and allowing them to disappear into his skin. Are you ready for this?

Amberfall nodded. Think so. She stared out into the never ending blue. It really didn’t matter if she was ready or not. This was actually happening. They were going to war.

Shinydance ran back toward Amberfall. She’s coming!

Amberfall slowly turned to her. Who’s coming?

Shinydance’s eyes raced around. She’s coming, she whispered again.

Amberfall looked at her. Who is coming? she asked again, this time with a bit more force.

Matilda.

Amberfall’s brow narrowed. Who is Matilda? The name sounded familiar, like the name of a far off queen.

Shinydance shrugged. I just know that Matilda is coming.

Amberfall blinked as she looked around the courtyard. Matilda…The name sounded really familiar, but she couldn’t quiet put a finger on it. However, something was very different.

She could feel that something was different in the air. She wasn’t really sure what it was, but there was something, some kind of a shift. She turned her face up to it, allowing her magic to fully taste it. Yup, there was something very different.

It wasn’t really a darkness nor was it a good feeling. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, but there was just something odd.

The late summer breeze kicked up, blowing it around her. She could feel something different, something off. It didn’t welcome her either. The tides were changing. It was almost like the calm before a rather nasty storm.

Come on, she said to Jessimond.

Jessimond looked up from her drawing pad with a raised eyebrow. You do realize that I’m not a dog and you just can’t call me whenever you feel like it.

Amberfall raised an eyebrow. Yes, but you said you didn’t want to be left alone or you may just kill yourself.

Jessimond rolled her eyes. I was just being dramatic. How you feel if you just found out that your husband divorced you and you didn’t even agree to it?

I have to take suicide threats seriously. Besides, I didn’t think you actually loved Vicar.

Jessimond slowly got to her feet. I was fond of him, I guess. Well, in the beginning everything wasn’t bad, but I didn’t like how he killed people and wouldn’t let me leave the castle. That part was kind of scary and I had to get out of there. She paused. And he did break the curse. I do have to remember that.

See, is it’s really not that big of a deal. Amberfall started forward. She still hadn’t figured out how Vicar of all people had been the one to break the curse. In the end, I think he really did you a favour.

Jessimond fell in step with her. It’s not about rather or not he did me a favour. He can’t control me like that. I have the right to make my wishes known in court. That’s how it works in civilized countries.

Maybe this really isn’t a civilized country. Xandria is not like our homelands.

I know that.

The stepped onto the brick path that led up to the castle. Well kept, flowering bushes surrounded them on either side. The sweet smells of warmed Amberfall’s soul. She never wanted to leave this, never wanted to let this go. She warned her soul by moving closer to the bushes.

She was bent down so close to the petals that she could feel it brush up against her body. The sweet smell filled her senses, taking her back to Zania, back to the wonderful world of nature. She could feel her body becoming one, returning to nature. She felt herself leaving this body and going to a faraway place.

What are you doing?

Amberfall looked up only to find Jessimond staring down at her. Amberfall took a small step back, looking up at her. I…um…I…

Jessimond shook her head. You were doing it again. I don’t know how you do it. I really do wish that I could just disappear into my mind.

Amberfall straightened up. It’s not really a blessing. It’s more of a curse. There are some people that once they disappear into their mind, they don’t come out.

Jessimond started down the path. Well, maybe we’ll just have to make sure that I don’t go too far in. It really would be nice to just disappear for a minute.

Amberfall followed her. It sounds nice in theory, but it’s not. You are better just living in what is known instead of trying to go into another part of the world.

Jessimond blinked. I think we were talking about the mind, not the world.

It’s the same concept.

But I thought exploding the world was a good thing. Exploring leads us to new places that could have things that we don’t have, Jessimond pointed out. Just think of all the wonderful things that we would not have if we didn’t go out into the world.

Amberfall shook her head. How had this came back to bite her? She picked up her pace, hoping that Jessimond would not be able to match it. However, it didn’t take long before she heard the sounds of clicking heels behind her.

I was just thinking that really didn’t make sense. Jessimond gently grabbed onto her arm, making her stop moving. I really do think that it’s not a bad arrangement.

Amberfall raised an eyebrow. A bad arrangement? That really makes no sense to me. She paused. Are we still talking about the same thing?

Jessimond looked at her. I don’t know. Are we still talking about the same thing?

Amberfall pulled her arm free. I think we really do need to think about staying in our current mind. It’s fine if we got out and explore different parts of the world, but we have to remember how to get back to our world.

Jessimond shifted around. I guess. She looked right at the Nature Fairy Queen. It’s just so confusing right now. Why can’t they make everything simple?

We don’t live in a simple world, that’s why and I fear that it’s going to get a lot more complicated.

Jessimond pulled her gown closer around her. Don’t say that.

Amberfall sighed. It’s the truth. There’s nothing I can do to change it.

They reached the end of the wall way. The courtyard tables were empty. As a matter of fact, the entire area was empty. Amberfall paused, looking around. It was very odd that no one was around, especially on a day as nice today. There wasn’t even any staff members around.

Jessimond rested her hands on the hips. I wonder where everyone is.

Amberfall shrugged. It’s hard to tell. Her mind was racing. She wasn’t aware of any meetings or anything like that. An attack they would have most certainly heard about. If the fleet and legions had left, they surely wouldn’t have left without them.

Jessimond looked back at Amberfall. Maybe they’ve gotten your message about not going out and exploring the world.

Amberfall gave her a look. I didn’t say it like that.

It sure sounded like it.

Amberfall started across the courtyard. We are going to get to the bottom of this.

Jessimond trailed after her. How are we going to get to the bottom of this? Her voice was small as she spoke. I mean, what is there really to get to the bottom of? People could have a very good and very innocent reason for not being out in the open. It’s doesn’t have to mean that something is wrong.

Amberfall turned on the Trelian princess. It may not mean that something is wrong, but we are in the middle of a war. It most certainly is something to look into.

Jessimond fidgeted with the edges of her gown. It’s not that I don’t think it’s not something to look into. I just think we don’t need assume the worse. It really could just be that the dining hall is having a surprise feast or something.

Amberfall raised an eyebrow. A surprise feast? Is that really the best you can come up?

Jessimond shrugged. It sounded a lot better in my head.

Amberfall opened the castle doors. It most certainly does make for an interesting idea, but I don’t think. After all, they would have told us about a feast. Why would we be the only ones who didn’t know about it? She froze as she spoke the words, looking at Jessimond with wide eyes. It just wasn’t possible. There was no way that this could be happening. She looked over at Jessimond, who was pretending to study the queen’s coat of arms.

Jessmind slowly looked at her. What?

Amberfall crossed her arms over her chest. What did you do?

Jessmond slowly looked away from the coat of arms. Whatever do you?

You know what I mean, Amberfall said darkly. I know you did something-something that you don’t want to tell me.

Jessimond shrugged. I don’t know what you are talking about.

You do to. I know you did something and you are supposed to be keeping me busy until a certain time. You might as just tell me and get it over with.

Jessimond smiled. I really don’t know what you are talking about.

Amberfall’s eyes narrowed. I think you know exactly what I am talking about.

Jessimond’s smile only widened as they pushed through the great doors of the dining hall. At first, Amberfall didn’t see anything out of the normal. In fact, just like the outside, it was very quiet-far too quiet for this time of the day.

Jessimond pushed her forward. Go on and see. There’s nothing to be afraid of.

Amberfall gave her a dark look. I just know you did something and it’s something that I’m not going to like.

"Now, I would never do anything that would upset you. I only wish to bring you joy