My time at the Festival of Chivalry may have ended with my battle in the arena, but the same couldn't be said for the people of Yelmora. In fact, the celebrations seemed to have barely slowed down at all.

I leaned against the balcony of the room that Elora and I shared, a bottle of Brin's brew swinging from my hand as I stared at the distant sight of the city. The sun had set some time ago, but the lights of the Burrows were so bright they cast the sky in a myriad of colours. The sounds of laughter and merry-making were clear even from where I was standing and the scent of honeyed mead, sweet wine and delectable fruits filled the air.

It was getting late. I should have long since succumbed to sleep, but the events of the day still remained fresh in my mind. The raucous Yelesi people weren't helping none, their boisterous appreciation for the Legions on display for all.

I was feeling more than a little melancholic that I couldn't join them and drink the night away. Unfortunately, there was little chance of that happening now with what had happened. I stared down at the near silent grounds of the estate. Yesterday the place had been fit to bursting with happy workers going about their tasks, but now most of them would be in the city proper, spending time with their family and friends.

It brought to mind the times I'd spent with the band, huddled around the fire and spreading stories of our exploits. Or when I'd simply sit down for dinner with my family, hearing about Delithia braiding Sasta's hair or how Gertrand had fallen down the steps while heading to the market. Even the memories caused a smile to bloom upon my lips.

I hadn't touched a single drop of the drink in my hand. Boldrin had pressed it into my palm before we'd entered the villa, giving me a nod and a clap on the shoulder as way of explanation for his generosity. I knew he didn't have much of Brin's brew left. The fact that he was sharing the precious resource with me was touching, yet I couldn't bring myself to take a swig. Not yet, at least.

Our return to the August estate was Vera and Annabelle's idea. One which was warranted considering just how many had seen our fight and the circumstances surrounding it. We'd been mobbed by people as we attempted to leave the arena, all of them shouting to get my attention, reaching out to me from the sea of faces. Thankfully, Tessa and Boldrin had put a stop to anyone who tried to approach. My mentor was a wall all himself, glaring at anyone who tried to touch me while Tessa growled, touching the hilts of her daggers in silent warning to any who got too close.

I was just happy that they weren't baying for my blood. In fact, most of them seemed to be expressing gratitude, bowing in my direction as they showed their respect. It made me more than a little uncomfortable but it was definitely preferable to being run out of Yelmora by an angry mob.

We'd broken through easily enough, the crowd giving way before us. Lencel, Sara, May and Rig had elected to stay behind and wait for the arrival of Calliston. It would be better if he heard what happened first hand from one of his own children over the humiliated Ursula. That was another stroke of good fortune. I really didn't want to have deal with a pissed off Master when she eventually came to.

Though, I thought, I very much doubted that she would be a problem. The ease with which the First Knight eliminated Ursula as a threat was spine-tingling. I'd heard that Vera was one of the strongest Knights on the continent, but I would be the first to admit that my standards of strength were pretty fucking skewed. The only Masters I'd met were forces of nature, literal walking disasters that could kill off cities. I'd never met a 'weak' Master before, though I doubted any who had reached the rank could ever be described as such. The fact that Lencel was staring at Vera with sheer awe in his eyes as we left was enough for me to know that this Ursula was something of a big deal in the Republic. For the First Knight to just completely dismantle her as she did was just another example of how far I had to go before I even approached her level of power.

I chuckled to myself as the drink in the skin sloshed around. I'd been so full of myself after I'd proven myself better than her with a sword. It was actually quite nice to be reminded that I was still a small fish in a large pond despite being an Heir. It was better to have any notions of grandeur knocked out of my skull sooner rather than later. If I started biting off more than I could chew then I'd just be putting Elora and Tess in danger. Well, more danger.

Speaking of my Smiths, I reached down into my soul to touch against the Bonds, feeling their warmth press against my consciousness. The two of them were currently in one of the many studies that littered the villa, in deep discussion about the Technique we'd used.

Tessa had barely spoken to me at all on the way back to the estate, her eyes filled with thought as she helped me along, not even noticing when I touched her over the Bond. Elora had finished healing me as we reached the doors of the villa, but I'd barely had a chance to speak with her before my mercenary pulled my wife away, claiming that they needed to talk about 'Smithing shit'. Annabelle followed after my two Smiths with a knowing smile.

I could only laugh as I caught sight of my Princess' rather desperate stare thrown at me over her shoulder before they disappeared into the expansive halls of the August home. I couldn't say I'd have been much help if I followed after them. Their jobs as Smiths were quite different from mine and I'd just get in the way if I attempted to help them understand why the Technique had worked. I was still trying to figure that all out for myself.

Even without my Bond to Elora, I could feel Space nearby, the giant eye floating around my soul space just out of sight, as though waiting for the right moment to pounce. It was like using First Sword had awakened a new sense within me, one which allowed me to intuitively see my primary Element on a level I'd never been able to before. Even the warmth of the Dark seemed small now, pushed to the background by the vastness of Space. Lightning remained the same; dormant, wild and completely uncontrollable. Like Space, it too was a primary Element, and so I should be able to control it in much the same way. I just needed to find the right key to the lock. I'd thought on it a little as we made our way back to the estate but it was a marathon, not a sprint. Domination was the way to harness Space, but that just wouldn't work with Lightning. It cared even less for other people than Space did, it seemed, but not in the same sense. It was like Lightning was only concerned with being what it was. Following it's nature seemed to be the prime directive for the chaotic Element, though I didn't quite know how I could use that knowledge to my advantage.

As I said: A marathon, not a sprint.

It was only a matter of time. My journey into the past had put a lot of things into perspective, both about my Elements and my soul itself. I'd taken a huge step forward today. I'd gained so much, in fact, that it would take me some time just to understand it all.

My soul seemed quieter than it ever had before. My control over it in the arena was near absolute, my ability to quell the rage it sought to stoke in me quickly squashed before it could be fanned into an inferno. I didn't know if this new change would be permanent or it was simply another step in the right direction. I was just pleased with the peace of mind it afforded me, at least for the moment.

The Technique itself felt like it was a part of my soul now. I could sense it there, almost like I could Rionna. First Sword was now a permanent part of me and I knew I'd be able to summon it again at will should the need arise. It may lack the splendour of summoning a hurricane or a river of ice, but its effectiveness couldn't be denied. Especially when paired with my Storm Eye. It was like they were made for each other. Combining First Sword with Storm basically granted me the ability to hit anything I could sense within my range. I couldn't help but think about how much more powerful it would become as I grew in strength. My range was about twenty feet now, which was a feat all itself considering how short a time I'd had this power. If I one day became a Master, how far would I able to see then? A mile? Two? How much damage could I do to an army if I just cut its generals to pieces before the true battle even began?

I grimaced a little at that. The idea of such power was pretty exciting, true, but I didn't like the idea of killing a man who didn't even know I was coming. Hypocritical, perhaps, considering I'd done just that to Roman Gaius, but I soothed myself with the idea that he would have escaped if I'd done nothing. If I'd tried to face him the proper way, a million things could have gone wrong.

Yes, I'd taken a huge leap today. Learning to harness my Technique was incredible, but I still felt like I was missing something. I'd used a movement technique to get closer to Tessa when we'd sparred, a new way of flowing across the battlefield. I'd thought at the time it was linked to First Sword, and I still believed that. I just didn't know in what capacity.

A knock at the door pulled me from my thoughts of the day, making me turn to face the sound, “Come in.”

Calliston August entered my room then, looking more tired than I'd ever seen the man. His pristine white robes ruffled and his usually immaculate hair slightly askew as he rubbed at his eyes. Despite his weariness, the man offered me a consolatory smile, “Greetings, Orin.”

“Senator,” I nodded as I turned to the man, my hand still wrapped around the wineskin, “You've heard then?”

“I have, yes,” Calliston sighed as he walked over to join me out on the balcony, taking a seat on one of the wicker chairs that had been placed there, “ I met with my children at the arena and I have already spoken with Lady Vera. You certainly know how to make things interesting, my friend. It has been quite the day.”

“I'm sorry if I caused you trouble, Senator,” I said to the man, genuinely meaning my apology. He had been kind enough to let us into his home, the last thing I'd wanted was to bring a ton of shit down on his head. My fault or not, I hadn't helped the situation by volunteering to fight in the first place. I took responsibility for my actions, “I hope you understand I was provoked.”

“What?” Calliston blinked as he looked up at me, his confusion plain, “Orin, you were very nearly killed due to a nefarious plot. You are not to blame for any of this.”

“Maybe not,” I said with a chuckle, “But I don't think I made it any easier.”

“True, it would have been better if we'd managed to bring Roman in alive, but that doesn't excuse his actions,” Calliston replied darkly, “I've known the man for nearly thirty years. I've always known he was ruthless, but there was a method to it. The reason he was so successful was because he was logical, strategic. This was something else entirely. The device he gave to Berthold was a storage relic, one which was almost as old as he was. They haven't been in use for quite some time, banned by the Hall for the problems they can cause to one's soul when harnessed. To think he would give one to his own son... It's madness. Beyond madness.”

“Can't say I know his reasoning, only that he was behind it,” I said with a shrug, “I sensed the Aurum, followed it back to its source. That relic was tethered to him even after it broke apart.”

“You sensed it?” Calliston asked, eyes widening, “Ursula said she could barely understand what she was seeing through her soul sense. The Aurum was too wild, she said, even after the relic broke. May I ask how?”

“My Resonant Gift of Sight.” I replied. It wasn't a complete lie. Sight was half of the Storm. I didn't like lying to the man, but the less he knew the better, “It's rather limited at the moment in range, but I could see the Aurum clearly enough, a white line leading straight to the chest of Roman Gaius.”

“So Lencel was being truthful,” Calliston shook his head with a wry smile, “Two Resonant Gifts. I never thought I'd see the day. I knew of your Gift of Strength from Vera, of course, but Sight as well? You know, I don't think I've ever heard of such a Gift being Resonant. The Princess truly is a skilled Smith, prodigious even.”

“She is,” I didn't like stealing credit from Tess, especially after what she'd gone through to Forge Storm, but I'm sure she'd understand. We needed to maintain a low profile for a while longer, just until we reached Nian, “I'm sorry we left the way we did. Vera and Annabelle didn't want to take any chances.”

“And they were right not too,” Calliston said firmly, “Returning here was the wisest move possible. Ursula Magnus was not in the best of moods, claiming to have been blind-sided by Lady Vera. She said you had fled, most likely the city itself. She was preparing a party to follow.”

I couldn't help but laugh at that, “Vera has no need to blind-side anyone. That Master didn't stand a fucking chance.”

“I agree,” Calliston wasn't smiling, “But as odd as it sounds, the humiliation of Ursula is almost as detrimental as Berthold and Roman's actions. The people of the city hold a tremendous amount of respect for the Raven of the Republic.”

“The Raven of the Republic?” I asked curiously.

“You can think of Ursula as our version of Vera,” Calliston said with a tired sigh, “For her to be beaten so soundly, and in front of so many citizens, well... I wouldn't be surprised if tomorrow the word on the street won't be about your fight with Berthold but about how Vera so effectively defeated our greatest asset. It could be used against Venos, to stir up some old hatreds.”

“Who would do something like that?”

“There is more than one sitting Senator who is opposed to our arrangement of trade with Venos,” Calliston continued, “As always, the argument is simply one of excess. There will always be those who want more than they need. They could use today to play on fears that have endured for a century, since our last war with the Kingdom.”

“So Roman and Berthold's actions mean nothing?”

“Oh no, they mean everything, Orin,” Calliston said reassuringly, “After visiting the arena, I held an emergency meeting of the Senate. That is, the Senators that are in Yelmora at the moment. Ursula has been ordered to stand down and the preliminary evidence strongly supports that you were in the right. Not to mention nearly two hundred eyewitnesses who saw Berthold's attack first hand.”

“Was my innocence in question?” I asked, “I didn't come here to cause trouble, Calliston. We're just passing through.”

“I'm aware of that, Orin, I truly am. I believed Lencel, Rig and my daughters, but few of my colleagues share the affinity for your country that I do. An investigation was inevitable and it has only just begun. That may sound concerning, but put to rest your fears,” Calliston passed a hand over his tired eyes, “It's standard procedure for crimes of this magnitude. The matter is as cut and dry as they come. There were a few grumbles, of course, from the aforementioned few who wish to bleed Venos for every coin they can, but even they cannot argue with facts: An attempt was made on the life of the Princess of Venos, not to mention yourself as the future King. Vera has more than enough reason to turn Yelmora into a frozen tundra for that sin alone. As First Knight of Venos, she could even declare war on behalf of Gida and Julian. I know it and my colleagues know it. We wouldn't be able to survive a war with Venos, not with Fero breathing down our necks.”

“Vera wouldn't do something like that, Senator.” I replied instinctively, though I realised that I didn't quite know if that answer was true or not.

“I know, but my fellow Senators do not. They fear Vera and rightly so considering today's events. We can't actually conclude the investigation until all sitting Senators are in attendance but you can expect to be cleared of the charge of murder levied against you when that time comes. On my honour, it will be done.”

I felt a slight weight lift itself off my shoulders as the words were spoken, but some of them also gave me pause, “Wait, are we stuck here until the investigation is finished?”

“That would be the norm,” Calliston said as my heart dropped within my chest. We couldn't afford to be stuck in Yelmora longer than necessary. We needed to reach Nian, to reach safety, as soon as possible. If Samuel found us here, we'd be easy prey. The mere thought of it caused my soul flames to spark and spit within my chest, concern for my Smiths rising as sure as the tide. Thankfully, the Senator continued speaking, “But then, this is hardly the norm, is it? No one wishes to push Vera further than is necessary. We cannot have a majority without all being present, but those in Yelmora have come to the unanimous decision that letting you leave as planned is best for the Republic.”

“They afraid Vera will lose her temper?” I chuckled, relieved that we would be departing as planned. My soul settled within my chest as I took a deep breath, feeling the cool breeze touch my face.

“Fear is a powerful motivator, Count Orin,” Calliston said with a smile, “And I did my very best to ensure they were aware of who they should be afraid of. Your display in the arena was quite the feat, as well. A fledgling Technique? For one as young as you are? When you do ascend the throne in the far flung future, we would do well to have you as an ally, not an enemy.”

I frowned at that, “A fledgling Technique?”

Calliston hesitated, “Ah, I have said too much. Believe me, I could do more harm than good if I finish that thought. Techniques are unique to each Knight and their creation can take a lifetime. You have merely begun your journey, Count Orin.”

Calliston got to his feet, his exhaustion plain and seeming older than his outward appearance would suggest. He held out a hand to me, a soft smile on his face as I returned the gesture, noting that the man had a firm grip that betrayed his warrior roots.

“I, for one, am very excited to see where your path leads you. Your mysterious reason for passing through Yeles alone is enough to pull at my curious nature,” I made to protest but Calliston waved me away with a laugh, “I may not look it, Orin, but I have been a politician for a very long time. The Princess is indeed skilled at keeping a straight face, as is Lady Annabelle. You and Vera, however, are not. Considering you have two Ragorans among your party, I assume your destination lies in the Eastern Islands, not the Hall of Tyra as I first assumed.”

I almost lied, almost tried to deny it, but I couldn't do it. Considering everything the man had done for me and mine, I wouldn't begrudge him a small piece of the truth, “It does.”

“As I thought,” Calliston said with sparkling eyes, “That, along with the strange note from the mysterious woman and your rather... shall we say, intense, relationship with your protector.”

I froze in place. I really was a shit liar.

“I am not a Master, Count Orin, but neither am I completely out of the loop,” Calliston continued, “I have heard stories. Heard talk of knowledge only known to the highest among the Hall. Tall tales of Knights who could Bond with more than one Smith, of those few who have power beyond what any normal Knight could hope to attain. I had believed them to be myths. That was, until I met you.”

“Senator-” I made to speak but Calliston lifted a hand to quiet me before I could finish.

“I do not do this to pull answers from you, Orin. As I said when we met, I am a friend. Nothing I have said here will be spoken to another soul. But,” Calliston patted the back of my still clasped hand, “One day, I would like to hear the truth behind the story of the Scarred Knight of Venos, perhaps over a cold ale.”

I sighed and shook my head. He'd figured it all out. I'd seen the signs that he had, yet I'd chosen to ignore them. Despite that, I didn't feel panic and fear well up within me. I believed he was a truthful man, a good man. I'd seen more than enough examples of that to know it to be true, “When that day comes, Senator, I'm buying.”

Calliston laughed and patted my arm briskly before he turned to leave, “I was going to speak with both you and Princess Elora, but she seems to be busy at the moment.”

“I'll tell her all you told me,” I replied, “One more thing before you go, Senator. What is to be done with Berthold?”

Calliston looked almost distraught for a moment, shaking his head bitterly, “That will have to wait for a full sitting, I'm afraid. Berthold will be imprisoned until then beneath the Senate building. A shame for so bright a star to sink so low. Rig has already asked that Kidis come to stay with us and I have granted his request. She has barely spoken since it happened. The Gaius estate and coin has all reverted to the Senate until we find a good use for it. Berthold and Kidis will never see a copper their father made. Once more, they pay for his actions. Their inheritance is non-existent.”

I thought back to that moment outside of the arena. The fear that filled the eyes of the Knight and Smith as they looked at their father, “I think that might be for the best.”

Calliston shrugged, unsure, “At any rate, Berthold's punishment will be decided at a later date. To his credit, he held nothing back during the first round of questioning. I received a report as I left my office. He confirms much of what we already know. Roman acquired the relic through elicit means, but we found a ledger detailing the transaction which shall need to be poured over further. I doubt we'll find much. These black market traders are good at hiding their identities, even from their own clients. Berthold knew little of his father's business dealings and we cannot ask his Smith, Quintus. He died due to soul trauma after the death of Roman. We found him at the Gaius Estate.”

That gave me a moment of pause. I'd never met Roman's Smith and he wasn't Bonded during the battle in the arena. I felt a small sliver of pity for the man called Quintus. I didn't know what he could have been doing to not be with his Knight, but to just keel over and die without reason was a terrifying prospect. Then again, as his Smith, Quintus no doubt knew of Roman's sins. He may not have expected his death, but I doubt he questioned the reason behind it.

“Thank you for telling me.” I said as I shook the man's hand again.

“Think nothing of it, Count Orin. I meant what I said. I look forward to one day working with you, if I'm still in office when you are named King. The boat to Hostor will leave before the sun rises. Lencel will guide you there come morning. I've secured your passage. The ferryman is an old friend of mine. I'm afraid I won't be able to join you for your departure as I must return to the Senate. I know not what you plan to do in Ragora, so all I will say is good luck and Spirit keep you.”

“And you as well, Calliston,” I said with a smile, nodding in the man's direction as he made for the door once more. As the Senator of Yelmora opened the door he turned to me with an expression that was both troubled and intrigued.

“I don't know what your appearance means for the world, Orin of Myrin, but I have a keen sense for change. I blame my time as a merchant for that. You being here, now, it must mean something. I feel the Spirit in our meeting.”

“You sound like my mother,” I said quietly, the mention of the Sister causing her loving stare to rise to the fore in my mind, “She too thinks I have some great destiny. So does Elora. I don't see it myself. I'm just a kid from the Commons of Myrin.”

“The fact that you still see yourself as only that, after everything you've done, is reassuring. Never lose sight of who you are, Orin. Because, in the end, all that matters is the beginning.” Calliston's gaze grew distant as though staring into the past itself before his eyes snapped into the present once more, “Goodbye, Count Orin of House Rin. Know that you will always be welcome in Yelmora.”

The quiet snap of the door closed behind the Senator and the steady ring of his footsteps echoed out beyond. I found myself thinking I would miss Calliston August. His attitude towards those under his purview, his sheer and honest need to help others, to ensure a better standard of life for his people, was staggering. He was a great man, one who stood by his beliefs. He had helped us when we hadn't given him reason to and even now, with his own government, he put his own reputation on the line to aid us. He reminded me of Boldrin in many ways. My mentor was no one's idea of a Senator, but he led by example. His love for the men and women under his command was present in every order he gave, every word, every gesture.

If I could be to Venos what those two men were to their respective peoples, I think I'd make a decent King.

Until I fuck it up, of course. Which, knowing me, is all too likely.

An hour passed me by before the sound of the door opening behind me made me reach for the Bond as though it was a tether. Grinning, I dragged my Princess towards me spiritually while turning to face her physically. My wife looked absolutely exhausted, her face hanging low and her hair still a mess from our journey through a hurricane. She had the chance to change, it seemed, and was dressed in a short tunic and breeches.

Now that I thought about it, it really had been an eventful fucking day.

“I do love wearing dresses, but they are hardly combat appropriate,” Elora yawned as she fell into my arms, nuzzling against my chest. She must have seen me taking in her new outfit, “Tess and I are making some progress. She really is very good with figuring out these things. I couldn't really explain what happened when we used our Technique and yet she made sense of my mad ramblings. Annabelle was only there to ensure we were heading in the right direction. She refused to tell us anything more than we already know about Techniques. We got a little frustrated with her so I decided to call it a night.”

“Calliston was just here and he said much the same,” I said with a sigh, “He called it a fledgling Technique, though Spirit knows what that means.”

“Calliston was here?” Elora sounded almost worried, her eyes snapping open as she looked up at me, “Was everything alright?”

I smiled gently at my Princess, telling her everything that had transpired during the time she'd spent with Tess. Concern bloomed in her golden eyes when I mentioned the fact that the Senator had figured out what I was and where we were going, but my assurances quickly put her fears to rest. Most of them, anyway.

“I trust you, love,” Elora said implicitly, “But I fear what Samuel will do if he tracks us this far. What if we're putting Calliston and his family in danger?”

“If he's followed us all the way here, he'll know where we're going,” I replied grimly, careful not to bring up how exactly he would figure that out, “He won't hurt the sitting Senator of Yelmora.”

“I hope not,” Elora trembled gently as she touched the scar on my face, “They have been kind to us.”

“You look exhausted, love,” I said as I lifted the Princess off her feet, “You've been Bonded with me and fighting for most of the day.”

“I have,” Elora replied softly as she grabbed a hold of my tunic and buried her head into my chest, “It was a kind thing you did, Orin. Showing mercy. You didn't need to.”

“I didn't want to,” I grumbled, “But I couldn't punish Kidis for the sins of her brother. Fuck, even Berthold himself is a stooge, a puppet for his father. Killing him would bring me nothing.”

“You've changed, you know that?” Elora grinned up at me as I placed her down on the bed and lay down beside her.

“Is that an insult, Princess?” I asked with a smirk as I leaned in for a kiss before pulling back and wiggling my brow, “Because I don't take such talk lightly. Punishment may be required.”

Elora laughed as she touched the scar on my face, “Not an insult, a compliment.”

“Oh, well in that case, a reward for your generous words.” I murmured as I kissed the nape of her neck, slowly working my way down.

“And what would that be?” Elora breathed as her fingers ran through my hair.

“The same as the punishment. I'm pretty unimaginative,” I chuckled.

That's when I felt it. A murmur across the Bond, a silent shout that went quiet almost as soon as it had begun. I stopped in my tracks, my lips still fixed to my Princess' collarbone as I reached down into my soul, touching my connection with Tessa. I sent a pulse over the Bond and didn't receive a response. It was the same as before, quiet and peaceful, but her lack of reply had made my hackles rise.

“Orin? Are you alright?” Elora's words pulled me from my soul space as I separated from my Princess.

“Something's wrong with Tess. She isn't replying to me,” I said, a hint of panic entering my voice as I grabbed a hold of the sword at the side of the bed. Not because I thought I would need it, more because I'd learned the lesson that not carrying a weapon was so much worse than having something to stab someone with. Tessa seemed absolutely fine, but she was in the sparring arena when she should be sleeping. Midnight had long since passed and we would be early to rise tomorrow.

I turned to Elora hesitantly, “I have to see her. Just to make sure.”

Elora smiled at me comfortingly, reaching out to squeeze my hand, “I understand, love. I'll be waiting when you get back.”

The way my Princess leaned back on the bed and began to undo the buttons on her tunic almost made me want to stay despite the feeling in my chest. Especially with her smouldering, honey coloured eyes fixed to mine. But, thankfully, my soul beat out my thumping heart and I was on my feet and dashing out the door before her womanly ways could entice me any further.

I heard her before I saw her. The sound of wood striking wood echoing out into the courtyard as I emerged into the darkness of the estate. The sparring ground was lit by torchlight, with a dozen arranged around the ring of sand. My mercenary stood at the very centre, a pair of wooden daggers in hand as she struck at her wooden foe with reckless abandon, employing devastating technique and skill as she tore apart her imaginary enemy again and again.

A pleasant chill ran through the air, a rare treat considering the tremendous heat that had dominated most of the day. I walked slowly across the field, hand on my sword as I took in my surroundings. The place was unusually quiet at this time of night. There was a peace to it that I enjoyed, much like camping out in rough country. I smiled as I sent another, stronger pulse over our Bond. Yet again, I was ignored as Tessa continued to battle her adversary. The dummy was certainly proving pretty fucking formidable, considering that my Tess was bright red and all but steaming in the cooled air.

“Tessaraina,” I growled, using her full name for effect, “I sent you a pulse. You didn't send one back. I am annoyed.”

Still my Smith ignored me. Slamming her wooden daggers into the dummy again and again, offering no reprieve.

“Tess?” I asked, genuinely becoming concerned as I got closer, “Are you alright?”

That's when I caught sight of her hands. The hilts of her dagger had been splintering, cutting into her flesh and drenching both in blood. The look of inhuman focus on her face was fucking terrifying, but that didn't stop me from stepping in.

“Tessa!” I barked as I walked into the maelstrom that she was creating around herself, “Fucking stop-”

A whistling dagger very nearly collided with my head as I hurriedly ducked with a curse, barely stepping back as another hit followed. I blocked two on my forearms, but the next triple strike slipped through, hitting my chest with incredible precision. If she'd been wielding real daggers I would have been off to meet the Spirit.

“Tessa!” I wheezed as I finally grabbed a hold of her wrists even as she tried to rip herself free, “Come back!”

The look in her steely eyes cleared as conscious thought returned. My mercenary blinked as she took in her surroundings, realising where she was and what she was doing. Then her gaze fixed on me and filled with horror.

“I'm fine!” I said as I hid my pain from my Smith, smiling at her gently. I'd seen that look before, I knew where it led, “You just got lost in your training. Now drop your daggers, you've cut your hands to shit.”

“I have?” Tessa frowned as she looked at the wrists that I still held and beyond that to the ruined training implements, “I have. I'm sorry.”

That gave me pause. She looked so vulnerable, the wood slipping from her hands as she held them close to her chest, refusing to look at me as she stared at the sand under her feet, “Tess, you okay? You didn't touch me over the Bond. I thought you were in trouble.”

“I'm sorry.” Tessa mumbled again, though this time she sounded near tears as her body trembled.

“Hey,” I leaned in and grabbed her, ignoring the tensing of her form as I pulled her into my arms, holding her tightly and stroking her back, “It's alright. You're fine, I'm fine, everything's fine.”

Tess nodded into my shoulder hesitantly. She hugged me back after a few seconds of stiffness, her arms wrapping tightly around me, “I- I thought I lost you today, Orin.”

I held her all the tighter as realisation hit me like a wave. I remembered emerging from the hurricane, remembering feeling Tessa's pain, her rage. Reason had fled her and she became completely dependent on our screaming Bond, which guided her to destroy Berthold at any cost.

I hadn't thought it through. I'd assumed it wouldn't be as bad for Tess as it was for Elora and I, but that wasn't the case. I should have known that, should have anticipated it. Even training with Boldrin had pushed Tessa's instincts into overdrive. What would it be like to watch me be devoured by a fucking tornado?

I had forgotten something about Tessa that had been present before the Bond was even in place: She viewed me as her whole world. I'd denied it once, but I knew it to be true. That was changing, I knew it was, but it would take time and not a lot of it had passed since we'd Bonded. Years of self-conditioning couldn't be undone in a day. For Tessa, to see me in pain would be far worse than anything Elora and I went through during that difficult first stage.

I didn't see it. I'm a fucking idiot.

I gritted my teeth and my grip on Tess tightened as I held her all the closer, hating myself all the while. What kind of Knight was I? A fucking useless one.

“Are you mad at me?” The quietness of her voice nearly broke me as I buried my face in her hair.

“Of course I'm not. I didn't realise, Tess. I'm so sorry,” I said softly, fighting to keep the crack from appearing in my voice, “I'm safe now. You haven't got a thing to worry about.”

“I've never felt like that before, Orin,” Tessa replied, her breathing becoming heavier with every word spoken, “I thought I could handle it. Talking with Elora and Annabelle helped. Made me focus on something. But then I thought back to that moment. Spirit, Orin. I think I lost my fucking mind. I thought you were dead. I heard something snap. I thought the Bond was broken, thought I'd lost you-”

“But you didn't,” I said quickly, cutting off her train of thought before she could follow it to its natural conclusion, “And you won't lose me. Honestly, I'm a little insulted. It was only a hurricane, Tess. I've survived worse.”

Tessa laughed a little, chuckling lightly into my shoulder. That didn't last long before she started to cry, her bloodied hands desperately wrapping themselves in my tunic as she wept. I didn't move, didn't say anything. I just held her until the worst of it had past.

“I'd never leave you, Tessa,” I whispered into her ear, “Remember what I said? When I spoke to you over the Bond?”

“I remember.” Tess sobbed, holding me all the tighter.

“Don't forget. Never forget. I'm not going anywhere.”

“D-Don't you dare tell anyone about this,” Tessa tried to say it with a straight face but it inevitably devolved into heaving chortles into my shoulder as I laughed with her, “I mean it, Orin. I-I'll fucking stab you.”

“Oh no, that doesn't work on me anymore,” I said with a grin, “I believed you back when we were with the band, and I remember you giving quite a few people a cut, but you never tried to stab me even once.”

“You weren't worth the nick in my knife,” Tessa retaliated, causing the two of us to laugh some more.

“Come on, over here,” I said as I walked Tess over to a small bench near the entrance to the villa, “Sit.”

“Why?”

“Your hands are filled with splinters, Tess. I need to get them out.”

“I can do it myself-”

“Would you just sit the fuck down?” I rolled my eye at my savage Smith and manoeuvred her into position, pressing down on her shoulders to make her take a seat, “Spirit, I'm not that bad of a field medic.”

Tessa's face scrunched up unconvincingly, “You are pretty bad, though. I remember Alec having to redo pretty much all of your bindings.”

I blinked, “What? Bullshit, my bandage work was top notch.”

“Sure, whatever you say,” Tessa said with a smirk as she held out her hands, wincing at the pain opening them caused her, “Well, there you go, Doctor. Have at it.”

“Thank you,” I responded with poise as I went about my work. Luckily, none of them had sunk too deep. They were just painful more than anything else, though Tess didn't twitch throughout the entire thing. With her rather harsh criticism of my ability as a healer, she probably thought I would cut off her hands if she moved. I finished quickly, nodding at her wounds in satisfaction. With her enhanced healing, she'd be all better in a couple of hours. As I worked, I noticed her watching me, her eyes looking at the scar on my cheek and up to my hair. Eventually they moved down to my arm, where her favour still sat in all its glistening, golden glory.

“Are you gonna wear that all the time now?” Tessa said as I finished up.

“Aye,” I said as I pulled the wineskin from my belt, “I thought I might.”

“Why?” She asked the question quietly, cautiously.

“Well, I use the piece of Elora's dress from our wedding for my hair,” I pulled the head of the skin off with my teeth, staring musingly into the sky, “And you don't own a dress, so I couldn't ask for a piece of yours. This seemed more convenient. Bit less awkward.”

“You think you're so fucking funny-” Tessa suddenly winced as I dumped some of the brew onto her outstretched hands. That was the great thing about Brin's liquor, it had a variety of applications, “Asshole!”

I laughed and took a swig of the bottle, enjoying the burn on the way down before passing it to Tess, “Come on, I needed to prevent infection. And I am funny.”

“You think you are,” Tessa took a swig, closing her eyes as she did so, a nostalgic smile breaking through, “You know, this was the first liquor I ever had.”

“Shit,” I shivered at the thought, “That must have been rough,”

Tessa smiled, “I stole some one night when Brin had passed out on watch. I couldn't follow you the next day, was too hungover.”

“And I'm guessing it was a calm day in Myrin and I returned unscathed?”

Tess glared at me, “No. You almost got stabbed, broke your arm and sprained your ankle trying to steal shit out of the old tavern in the western quarter. The one that was occupied by the Bell-tower Bulls. Looking after you was like looking after a dog. A very unruly dog that kept trying to kill itself.”

I almost died of laughter on that one. Tessa didn't join me, her glare becoming all the darker which made me laugh all the harder, “Spirit, I really put you through it, didn't I?”

“Some days,” Tessa grumbled as she took another swig, leaning back against the bench, closing her eyes, “Others were... well, there were some good times.”

“I did see you once, you know,” I said quietly, looking away from my savage Smith as I looked out over the estate. “I'd forgotten, but I remember now. On the day of the parade. When Elora made her first appearance as Princess. All three of us were there. Who knew? You saved me from a Common Dog who was beating the shit out of me. I didn't give you a second look back then. I should have turned around. I should have gone to you. I don't know why I didn't. I was a cynical little shit back then, hated anyone who wasn't family, even if they hadn't given me cause. It was so soon after Leila. Too soon. But I want you to know that, Tess. Even if I didn't go to you, even if I didn't catch you. I still saw you.”

I turned back to my Smith to see that she had fallen asleep, her exhaustion finally winning out over her stubbornness, the rest of the precious drink draining into the ground beneath our feet. I sighed and shook my head at my Smith fondly, reaching out to pick her up as gently as I could. Tessa's arms unconsciously wrapped around my neck as I lifted her up and carried her into the villa.

It didn't take long to find her room, it was only two doors down from the one that Elora and I shared. Opening a door while holding an unconscious woman was easier said than done, but I managed in the end, laying Tess gently on her bed, chuckling at her soft mumbling as she immediately rolled over, pulling the blankets up and around her as she wrapped herself in a cocoon.

“I'll never leave you, Tessa,” I whispered before I made for the door, “Never.”

I closed the door behind me silently before making my way back to my own room. I hoped Tess wouldn't have nightmares tonight. She deserved a sound sleep after all she'd been through.

I walked into my own room and found myself faced with the beautiful sight of my Princess beneath our blankets, her clothes in a tangled heap at the foot of our bed. My wife seemed to be very naked. Very naked and very much asleep. Elora's soft snores filled the room, even sleeping she was adorable.

I shook my head with a wry grin. You couldn't get everything you wanted it seemed.

I stripped off my own clothes, ensuring that both Elora's band and Tessa's favour were placed gently aside before I climbed into bed with my wife. The Princess seemed to sense my presence as she rolled into me as soon as I arrived.

I was suddenly aware of my own exhaustion. It had been a long day and one which I would be glad to see the back of. Tomorrow was shaping up to be even longer. I'd only been on a boat once in my life, but it hadn't really gone well, much to the amusement of all in attendance. I just had to hope that history wasn't fated to repeat itself.

I snuggled close to my Elora, wrapping her in my arms, and settled in for the night, her breathing lulling me into a sound, dreamless sleep.

*

“Up and at 'em, Orin!”

The morning passed us by in a blur, our awakening marked by the heavy banging of a huge fist against our door and the booming cry of Boldrin the Bold. I was used to being woken by the giant from my time in the band. On more than one occasion by former commander would kick over our tents, laughing all the while as he swing his giant axe through the air. Mornings or evenings, the energy of Boldrin seemed inexhaustible and today was no exception.

I was out of bed before I'd even truly woken up, reaching for my sword and a pack that wasn't there. I very nearly shouted 'Yes, sir' at the top of my lungs but managed to quell the reflex in time before I embarrassed myself in front of my beautiful wife. Elora peered at me from our bedding with tired eyes, wondering why I'd thrown myself from our bed so violently. I could only grin sheepishly in response.

After getting dressed and making our way to the entrance of the villa, we were met by the rest of our troop. As was her way, Tessa immediately took her place on my left side with Elora on my right. Vera and Annabelle looked anxious to get moving, though less so than Alden and Deirdric, who spoke to one another in hushed whispers.

“Not long now, Deirdric,” Alden murmured to his Smith, “You'll see Freida soon.”

“I know,” Deirdric said morosely, followed swiftly by a shallow sigh, “I just hope she can forgive me for taking so long. We've been married for years, but I spent many of those at the Hall. I just wish to settle when we reach Nian, at least for a time. I don't want her to believe I don't care enough to stay.”

“Lady Freida doesn't believe that,” Alden shook his head with a chuckle, “She loves you, I see it in her eyes. She wanted you to bring Tessaraina home.”

Deirdric looked far more upbeat after that, his small smile thankful for the support of his Smith as he fixed the bag he carried. The Ragoran Smith seemed to carry little except for scrolls and the occasional piece of fruit. Many a night on the road had seen him sitting near the fire with a weathered scroll in hand, pouring over the secrets contained within.

Something unexpected followed. Tessa glanced over at Deirdric with a strange look to her eye before glancing at me and frowning. She then took a deep breath and spoke, “How is she? When you last saw her?”

Deirdric looked up, blinking as he froze with scroll in hand. Alden too, looked rather shocked. I understood their reactions. Tessa hadn't asked for any information on any member of her family since we'd left Myrin. In fact, she'd said barely four words to Deirdric at all during our entire trip. The Ragoran scholar grinned brightly at his Lady, excitement dancing in his eyes, “She is well, my Lady. Freida is a scholar of some renown and serves as your father's emissary to the palace of the High Lord. She enjoys her work greatly, though she misses you. It was her that insisted Alden and I be the ones to come and bring you home. She was quite angry with your father when we left. I imagine she still is. She cares about you very deeply.”

“I remember,” Tessa replied softly as she fixed the daggers to her waist, “And the others? Dawn? Cassie?”

“They are all well, my Lady,” Alden continued in Deirdric's place, the look on his face touched by pride. For a second I noticed the shimmer of tears in his eyes before he blinked them away, “Dawn is married and expecting her first child. Cassie has joined the military, currently serving in the Naval defence force for Nian. Tilia is... well, she is still Tilia, enjoying her life among the upper echelons of society. Lilian is a Bonded Knight, graduating two years before Deirdric and I. She trains under your father to one day take her seat at the head of the family.”

Tessa nodded along silently, “And my mother? How is she?”

Alden's face scrunched in pain as he bowed his head, “She misses you greatly. Lady D'viritazi... Theadora was never the same after you left. She looked more like herself than she had in years when Mastan told your family the truth.”

Tessa grunted, her grip on her daggers tightening, “Thank you for telling me.”

Alden beamed, “You are most welcome, my Lady.”

I grabbed a hold of Tessa's hand in mine, squeezing it gently to offer my silent support. She smiled at me before rolling her eyes, but secured her grip on my hand in a rare show of affection. I don't know what had brought on her sudden need to learn more about her family. Perhaps it was what had happened yesterday, or maybe it had been building within her for quite some time. Either way, it was a tremendous step in the right direction. Mastan had done some terrible things to my Smith, but her sisters were free of such sin. If Tess could have a relationship with them, even after all this time, then I'd do all I could to help.

It was good to see her in high spirits. She was the first thing I'd thought about this morning. It seemed our little talk last night had helped settle her a little, but I knew first hand just how terrifying it could be to lose control of yourself, to give into the pull of the Bond.

“Are you ready, Lady Vera?” Lencel asked as he walked through the door of the estate, a wide, adoring smile on his face that was somewhat tempered by our leaving, “Father informed me that the ferry will leave within the hour. We'd best be away.”

“And so we shall,” Vera said with a smile that caused Lencel to flush as he looked away, “Time to leave.”

The short journey out of the estate was a difficult one to be sure. Elora and I had never really had the chance to celebrate our marriage and this place had offered us that, even if it was only that one, perfect night. I would be forever grateful to Calliston and his family for giving us that chance, even if us being here had proven to be difficult for them. I didn't think the Senator himself held any form of animosity towards us, but the fact that Rig, Sara, May and Kidis were absent today spoke volumes. Lencel himself seemed unaffected by what had happened. He was an optimist, much like his father, and one who chose to see the best in people. I truly believed he could see the light in any situation, no matter how grim. Rig was another matter. I hadn't been kind to Kidis, after all. He was young, and in love. I could understand why he would be absent for our departure, even if I didn't agree with his reasoning.

The city of Yelmora was near deserted as we made our way through the outer city and into the twisting maze of the Burrows. A subtle mist had come with the morning, made all the more apparent by the rising sun as it sat around the hooves of our horses. The celebrations must have been something, because barely a soul had stirred. I was thankful for that. It was much faster to traverse the narrow roads without a crowd and we reached our destination without a single problem arising.

The destination in question was a small port on the eastern side of the city, filled with boats and empty of workers save a sorry few who had been forced to work after the Festival of Chivalry. As we dismounted, I noticed more than a few pale faces as the unfortunates stumbled about, trying with all in them to do their jobs and surely regretting imbibing a bit too much ale the night before.

The River Lith was quite something. An expanse of water that was almost two hundred feet wide which ran east to west with the straightness of an arrow. From here we would only be on this ship for a couple of days. In Hostor we would commission another vessel to carry us the rest of the way to Nian.

I felt excitement touch me as I smiled into the air, enjoying the moment. As much as I hated being chased by a psychopath with almost god like powers, I did like the adventure of seeing new places and experiencing new things. I couldn't do much of that in Yelmora, but even getting to see the Festival of Chivalry had been a boon I wouldn't forget anytime soon. I would miss this city, I thought to myself. There was something special about it, something pure. I hoped that I would get to see it again one day.

The ferry waiting for us was a solid-looking craft, if a little worn down by age and the elements. I spotted a few men working the deck, readying the ship for the voyage down the Lith. A man was pacing in front of the gangplank, his eyes shooting to the horizon to track the rising sun. He was well dressed, though there was hint of hardness to him that was unexpected in one so groomed. Not exactly what one pictured when imagining a boat captain, but then I had only met a few.

“Captain Formas!” Lencel shouted with an enthusiastic cry, “We're here!”

Formas' blue eyes fixed to us as an explosive sigh of relief left his lips. He leapt forward, swallowing the distance between us with a few incredibly steady steps, “Lencel August? My, how you've grown. When I received word from your father I couldn't quite believe it! Calliston August is a high and mighty Senator, he has no need for an old ship captain like me.”

“Now you know that isn't true, Captain,” Lencel said fondly as he dismounted, walking up to the man and clasping hands with him, “Father always has time for his favourite partner.”

“Bah, enough with your compliments,” Formas laughed, “You have a silver tongue, just like Calliston. I take it these are my passengers to Hostor?”

“They are, Captain,” Lencel said with a smile as he turned to me and introduced us all in turn, ending with my wife, “And this is Princess Elora of Venos.”

Formas' eyes widened as he stared at each of us in turn, “Some mighty company you're keeping, Lencel. Pleasure to meet you, Princess.”

“The pleasure is mine, Captain Formas.” Elora said with a bright and infectious smile.

“Alright then,” Formas said, still looking faintly shocked before he shook his head viciously and stuck his hands on his hips, “Now, here's how this all gonna work. I've got enough room below for your horses and your packs, but I only got the one cabin open so that'll be for the woman folk. Only one rule: On this ship, you do as I say. Ain't no higher authority on this here vessel but me, myself and I. That clear to you all?”

I already found myself liking the man as we all nodded in assent. He didn't bullshit.

“Good to hear. Now, give me boys a second to get your steeds on board then we'll get you settled. It'll be three days with good weather and we rarely get any bad in Yeles so we should make it on time. The Pixie is an old tub, but she's as solid as a rock and steers like one as well. We'll get you to your destination in one piece.”

With that, Captain Formas walked up the gangplank and yelled at the men there. It was quite something to watch all of them jump to their feet in a panic, sprinting to follow their Captain's orders as he howled at them from the top of his lungs. He didn't quite reach the volume level of Boldrin, but I still found it impressive nonetheless.

“Sir Orin, there are a few people who wish to say goodbye.” Lencel said with a small smile as he grabbed my attention, pointing back to the city proper.

Now, this, I hadn't expected.

Rig, Sara and May walked out from the city, each of them looking hesitant and unsure, with the exception of the youngest August daughter, who seemed to be as chipper as she ever was. I frowned as I noticed their unease, but the why of that was made all the clearer from the young woman who was walking next to Rig.

Kidis Gaius looked more pale than I'd seen before. Her form was thinner and skin drawn, almost as though she hadn't eaten in days. Considering the events of yesterday, I'd say that particular transformation was the result of using the relic that Berthold had employed. Kidis looked depressed, her eyes fixed to the ground and not shifting even as Rig led her by the hand.

I clapped Lencel on the shoulder and gave him a little shove towards Vera, who was taking the pack off of her horse, “You've got to say goodbye yourself, Lencel. Don't let me stop you.”

Lencel flushed as he raised a hand to his suddenly darkening face in embarrassment, “Is it really that obvious?”

“Nah, I'm just perceptive.” I may not have been a good enough liar to fool Calliston August, but his son was another matter as the swordsman gifted me with a wide grin, “Go on. We'll be leaving soon.”

The man nodded as I turned back to the approaching party, Elora and Tessa both dismounting to join me, taking their places by my side.

“Hello, Count Orin!” May said with a bright smile as she stepped forward, “Thank you for visiting with us. It has certainly been eventful. Mother sends her love but she's with father in the Senate.”

The whirlwind of energy then hugged Elora, “I loved meeting you, Princess! Next time, we'll all come to Venos and stay in the royal palace! That'll be so much fun!”

“You're more than welcome, May. Anytime you like.” My Princess said with a bright grin, May's nature infecting all around her with a stark enthusiasm for life.

She then moved to me, gripping me with a strength that belied her frail size, “I'll see those scars one day, Count!”

With that said, she danced over to Tessa, giving her the quickest hug I'd ever seen before moving back again, hiding slightly behind Sara as she peered at Tess with narrowed eyes. Shit, but was she fast. Almost as fast as my savage Smith. My mercenary gave me a tired look, almost as though she was quite done with May's antics. I kept my laughter contained, though it was more than a little difficult.

“Thank you, Count Orin, Princess,” Sara spoke as she stepped forward. Next to Kidis, Sara looked the most nervous, her hands playing at her front and her eyes unable to meet mine, “You spared him. You didn't have to do that. In truth, you shouldn't have. But... I love him. You have no idea what you showing mercy means to me.”

“It's fine, Sara,” I said softly and with a shrug, “Roman was the one who was truly to blame.”

“You have no idea how true that is,” Sara replied with a sad smile, “I don't know how much this will mean to you. But you will always have a friend in me for what you've done. I just wish the circumstances were different. I will make sure Berthold knows who saved his life yesterday. Whatever punishment he receives, you have given him the chance to live out from under his father. Thank you.”

Sara took my hand and held it gently before releasing it, taking a step back as tears danced in her eyes. May, in a rare moment of restrained compassion, wrapped an arm around her sister's shoulders and pulled her in for an embrace.

Rig stepped up next, though Kidis remained where she was, hiding back a few feet as though coming any closer would cause her pain. Lencel's Smith shook my hand, his expression difficult and hard to decipher, “Thank you, Orin. You stepped in to fight when it should have been Lencel and I. If we had faced him, no doubt we would both be dead now. You gave me the chance to be with her.”

“How is she?” I asked as I looked past the scrawny young man. He followed my gaze, his eyes coming alive with the love he felt for her.

“She is getting better. It was bad last night, but she improved this morning. Calliston thinks that it is the relic playing havoc with her soul. We have a meeting with a specialist who may be able to tell us more,” Rig hesitated as he looked to me then, a hint of accusation in his eyes, “She hates herself for what happened. After what you said to her, she believes she could have done more.”

“She could've,” I said the words bluntly which made Rig bristle, but I raised a hand to stop his protests, “As you could've done. As everyone could've done. The blame is not hers alone, but she shares in it. Telling her she did nothing wrong wouldn't help her, but hinder. To grow, to become stronger, she has to face this, to move on.”

“You are right,” Rig said bitterly, “I know it, but that doesn't make it any easier to see her like this.”

“I won't speak with her,” I said softly, “I don't want to upset her more than is necessary. I expect I'm the last person she wants to see right now. Be there for her, Rig, and don't let her run from what happened. I've been down that path and it leads to nothing but pain. Remind her that she is loved. Remind her that she has worth, has something to offer. Believe me, that'll help more than anything else.”

Rig sniffed as he held back tears, taking my hand in both of his and shaking it once again, “Have no fear of that, Lord Orin. I'll tell her everyday.”

“Good man,” I said with a smile and clapped a hand on his shoulder, “Take care of yourself, Rig of the Burrows. Until we meet again.”

“Until we meet again.”

Elora did something unexpected then. She walked up to Rig, putting a hand on his shoulder to comfort the young man, before she walked passed him to Kidis. Neither I nor Rig could make out the words my Princess spoke, but the more she did, the more Kidis seemed to open up. Finally, she met Elora's eyes, nodding fervently at every thing she said. Elora gently held the trembling girl for a moment before she pulled away, walking back over to join Tessa and I. With a nod to Rig, Elora let him pass her to go and be with Kidis, who might have just had the smallest of smiles on her face.

“What did you say to her, Princess?” I asked as I wrapped an arm around Elora's shoulders.

“Oh, just a little advice I was given once,” Elora looked past me to stare at Tessa, who grinned back at my Princess knowingly, “Back during a time when I was feeling sorry for myself. She'll be fine, Orin. She's strong, much stronger than even she believes herself to be. This won't break her.”

“I'm glad to hear it,” I replied with relief. I didn't want any harm to befall Kidis if it could be helped. We walked over to join the others as Sara, Rig, May and Kidis stood back, ready to watch our departure.

I noted Vera and Lencel talking to each other. Even from where I was standing I could tell just how awkward the swordsman felt and how much fun the First Knight was having. As their goodbyes reached a conclusion, Vera leaned forward and kissed Lencel on the cheek, gifting him with a wink before walking towards the gangplank and our gathered company. The poor lad didn't move at all after that. His shock so complete that he didn't even blink.

“What did you say to him? I think he might be broken.” I asked with a smirk as Vera approached.

The First Knight shrugged, “He said one day he was going to beat me and make me his wife. I told him good luck.”

“You play with his feelings, sister,” Annabelle said with a sigh of frustration, the Lady of Ice glaring up at Vera, “Don't give him false hope.”

“He'll do just fine, Annie,” Vera said as she looked back at Lencel with a gleam to her eye, “Maybe one day he'll prove as good as his word.”

“Good for him,” I muttered as I stared at the still frozen Lencel, “We could all do with his courage.”

“Not you, Orin,” Tessa grumbled, “You already throw yourself into impossible situations. Give you any more courage and you'll throw yourself off a mountain believing you can fly.”

“Who knows? Maybe one day I will,” I said as I reached into my bag and pulled free a slim, black tome, “Gida and Julian explained how to make their wings in here. Maybe one day I'll have a pair of my own due to my incredible, amazing and rather spectacular Smiths.”

“Orin, please don't finish that thought,” Elora said, looking a little frustrated, “Techniques change from Knight to Knight, we can't just make you wings because my mother has them.”

“I believe in you two.” I stated with a serene and completely unflappable smile.

Elora stared at me blankly before she turned to Tess, “He doesn't listen.”

“Would you want him any other way?”

The ship cast off soon after we climbed on board and stowed our bags. The last sight of Yelmora was of the August clan with Rig and Kidis, waving at our boat. Lencel had never looked so happy as he waved and roared goodbye for all he was worth. While the farewell was aimed at all of us, we all knew damn well that it was focused on the woman who had captured his heart. The others weren't quite as enthusiastic, but it was nice to see that Kidis was joining in with Rig and the others. Their shouts sending us out into the unknown once more.

Our time in Yelmora had been more than a little eventful, but I was sad to leave it behind. There was some good people in the Republic and I sincerely hoped I would be able to see them again.

A few hours passed us by in a flash. With the passage of time came the steady disappearance of Yelmora, before it vanished over the horizon. A new adventure awaited ahead. I just hoped it wouldn't be as eventful as our time in the Yelesi capital had been.

With the wind in my hair and my Smiths by my side, I turned towards our destination, to Hostor and beyond, to the glimmering jewel of the Eastern Islands.