Protectors: The Valdronius Kingdom
Chapter 4

The Darkness about brought a

Devastatingly

Reassurance of Security

I woke thinking of yesterdays’ events. It was weird to say the least, vivid. Sitting up the scent of that man filled my nose…Damien. Tapping outside tells me that it’s raining. I get out of the bed; my feet touch something other than the carpet that I was used to. Something tight wound itself around my arm, my left hand goes to my right shoulder replaceing a bandage. I unwrap it and feel the dried blood. I sit back on the bed taking a breath. I think about the phone in under the pillow.

“Call Jeffery.”

“You are out of range.” Oh right. I go to the windows and open the doors, the air is cool, the wind colder. What time was it? The patter of the rain was louder but a constant drizzle.

“Call Jeffery”

“You are out of range”. Damn it! And yet I was a little relieved. Maybe, just maybe they were telling me the truth. I stick my left hand out and rain drizzles down on my palm. I go back into the room, sitting on the bed. There was a knock at the door that made me jump.

“Who is it?”

“Emlyn.” I place the phone back under the pillow.

“...uh...Come in.” I could hear the door open slowly, her footsteps quite.

“I had your clothes cleaned.” They must have been placed on the bed; my hand was taken as a strap was put in my hand.

“I found this by the door.” My bag.

“Thank you.”

“Though I might intervene in your wearing those clothes here. If you were to venture out, those clothes are not particularly seen as normal.”

“Where would I venture to? If I remember correctly I am confined to the premises.” We were quite, but the air was uncomfortable. I could picture a stern look being given.

“What would you have me wear?”

“Woodland clothing.” Her footsteps walked away from me. Doors closed and the wind ceased to blow into the room. Other doors creaked opened.

“Like long sleeves and overalls?” I place my bag on the bed.

“Not quite child.” My hands we taken and clothing was placed in them. Feeling them over, I could feel a light cotton fabric with leather. There seemed to be strings on the leather, laces.

“Oh.”

“I will let you get dressed then, shoes are at the foot of the bed. If you need anything just call my name.”

“Thank you.” Her footsteps were distant as the door opened and closed. I was alone.

I laid the clothes on the bed, feeling through them I found a rough feeling pair of pants, a soft feeling shirt, and some type of leather cover with laces. What I didn’t replace was a bra, panties and socks. My bag, I should have clothes in there. I didn’t put clothes in my bag though, which means Damien did, I could feel my cheeks getting warm. I can’t think about that right now. The shirt was loose and hugged my wrists just in the right spot, though the neck line was a little deeper than I liked. The pants were a struggle, they just had to be like skinny jeans, and once they were on they were comfortable and stretchy. The shoes were exactly where she said they would be. They were comfy, lace up types. Now the other piece, I wasn’t exactly sure what it was. On the one side it was smooth and strait, on two sides was laces, and the other side was sort of wavy. On the material it had ridges like stripes, it was a corset. Oh, it was a corset, how am I supposed to wear this? I couldn’t possibly wear this, could I? Where did Emlyn go? She said to just call her name; she must be out in the hall. I slowly walk to the door opening it a bit, I hear nothing. She has been a quiet person though.

“Emlyn?”

“Yes child?” I jumped, not because she answered but because it came from behind me.

“Have you been here the whole time?”

“Of course not.” I close the door.

“How …”

“I believe Damien told you what I am.” He did say something about them.

“That’s how you get around without me hearing you, you can just disappear?”

“It’s called fazing child.”

“Fazing, right…ok” I lean against the wall, taking deep breaths.

“Was there something you needed child?”

“I, um … I don’t think I can wear this.” I say kind of dazed. My forearm is taken softly and I am led back to the bed. She takes the corset and places it around me tightly.

“Well not with this on.” She touched my shoulder where my bra strap was; I instantly felt a release of pressure. My bra was gone.

“What are you doing?” I pull away clutching my breasts.

“You don’t wear this with a brassiere, come child.” I tentatively go back to her. I am turned back around; she pulled the shirt strait and placed the corset back on me tightening the straps behind me. I admit it was a little comfortable.

“There all done.”

“Thank you.” I feel the corset on me. The wavy part had covered my breasts; I could feel the shirt, thankfully covering those puppies.

“Now if you are ready to come down stairs we are about to have breakfast.” What she was really asking was, was I planning on socializing. I really needed to replace a place with signal. But if they were telling the truth then I really was in a different realm, and I wouldn’t replace a signal. I had two choices, stay here or replace out some information.

“…alright.” I nodded. She took my arm as I was about to step forward when I felt unsteady like I was about to trip over. My foot found the ground and I stumbled forward.

“It’s alright child, it’s a little shaky the first time.”

“Third time actually.” I catch my breath.

“You could have warned the poor girl beforehand Emlyn.” It was a man’s voice, different than Damien’s.

“Yes well, I told her how I got around Ameilius.” Ameilius, that’s his name.

“Not the same darling.” He sounded light hearted. She sounded...plain. No hint of emotion. I heard a scrap of a chair and some heavy footsteps; they were getting closer to me. My elbow was lightly taken.

“The table is right here.” I was lead forward two steps; my hand was put on a smooth surface, the table.

“Thank you.” I felt around the table till I found a chair. There was a slight scrape as I pulled out the chair.

“Which room are we in?”

“The main room, the room you were in yesterday my dear.” It was Ameilius; his voice came from in front of me. I nodded my acknowledgement.

“So Embry, how did you sleep?”

“I slept fine, thank you.” I smiled a bit remembering something.

“Emlyn? Did you put me in Damien’s’ room on purpose?”

“Yes.” There was chuckle undoubtedly coming from Ameilius.

“Why would…” Ameilius cleared his throat stopping me in mid-sentence.

“Damien, you found suitable arrangements, I gather.” It was Emlyn to speak now. Somehow I didn’t perceive her asking a question.

“Yes, though someone left the window open. Half the room is soaked.” He said it with a slight grumble. There was a scrap of a chair across from me, probably next to Ameilius. I heard a slight clap and a groan.

“What did you do to yourself this time Damien?” Ameilius was inquisitive. Oh no! I could feel myself panic, would he tell him what happened. PLEASE DON’T TELL HIM! I silently pleaded.

Alright no need to shout. The voice in my head caused me to jump. You heard me!? Loud and clear. How is that possible? Looks like you found a new talent. I don’t understand?

“Damien?” It was Ameilius that brought me out of my thoughts.

“You know me Mils, always getting into something.”

“I guess I would be worried if you didn’t have any bumps and bruises.” He said it thoughtfully. Damien? We were all quite for a few minutes, the only sound was the sound of clinking coming from Emlyn. DAMIEN! OW! No need to shout! I can hear just fine thank you. You didn’t hear me the first time. I said a little on edge. I’m confused, how can I… I’ll talk to you about it in private, is that ok? I just shook my head yes.

“Embry, is something wrong?” It was Ameilius. Oh right, telepathy is silent talking. Is it really silent though? I mean you’re still…

“She’s fine, Mils. I was clarifying something for her.”

“Ah.” Was all Ameilius said.

“Yes, sorry, I suppose it was rude of me to...”

“Not at all dear, Damien knows better.” This time it was Emlyn who spoke. I could hear someone stirring, probably Damien.

“Now, now darling let’s not start a quarrel.” Ameilius seemed to be used to this. I had a feeling that Emlyn liked to pick on Damien, I think she secretly liked him.

“Are…Is Damien your son?” It just sort of came out.

“Absolutely not.” It was Damien that answered.

“Oh come now Damien. I like to think of myself as…”

“My superior? Yes, I know you do. Let’s not get it twisted shall we?”

“Oh…” The clinking stopped abruptly.

“Emlyn?”

“There he is.”

“Are we expecting company Emlyn?”

“Felyx. He arrived last night, but a fledgling followed him in, he was concealed before I could get to him.” Something was set down on the table next to me.

“Damien?”

“Do you need my help?” He sounded seriously concerned.

“Serve breakfast.” There was a slight pop, which I took for her to have gone.

“That Woman! She did that on purpose!” I could hear the heat rise in his voice. A chuckle came from Ameilius.

“Come on, I’ll help you.”

“...I’ve got it.” He grumbled. Clinking sounds started up again. It was hard not to smile.

“Ameilius?”

“Yes, Embry?”

“What’s a fledgling?”

“Some creatures decide to follow the path of darkness becoming miscreants. Darkness swells up inside them causing the craving of flesh and blood. Once they have had a taste that addiction becomes increasingly hard to get rid of. Fledglings are what the creatures are called before making the complete transition.”

“…into what?”

“The Soulless.” It was Damien who answered. There was a stillness in the air, even without being able to see, I could sense something amiss. The smell of eggs and bacon wafted through my nose, and a clank in front of me was made, my hands found a smooth object, wood.

“Thank you.” There was silence.

“Just so you know Embry, Damien nodded his confirmation, apparently he’s forgotten how to speak to a young lady.” Ameilius spoke up intentionally. Silence ensued, though I’m sure it was anything but silent between the two of them.

“Ameilius?”

“Yes?”

“What would make a creature do such a thing?”

“There are many…devastations in this world. As I am sure there are many in your world my dear. Some rather leave their life than deal with it.” His voice was soft and a pang hit me hard.

“…Yes, I’m aware.”

“Per chance after breakfast, you would accompany me outside Embry. Some fresh air I think would do us well.”

“I’d like that; wait isn’t it raining?”

“I’m sure we can replace some umbrellas.” I smiled. There’s something comforting about walking in the rain.

“Will you be joining us Damien?” Ameilius asked.

“I have some where I need to be.” Where? Why was I being so nosy?

“But I should be able to return this evening.”

“Very well, looks like it will be the two of us Embry.” We sat in silence eating our food. Another question unanswered, though I had the suspicion that he heard me. After breakfast, plates were removed and washed by Ameilius, leaving Damien and I at the table. If we were going outside, there was a chance that I could be left on my own for a minute or two. A chance I was willing to take and I needed my phone.

“Damien?” Silence.

“Damien?” Did he leave already? I stand up walking to the edge of the table.

“Where are you going?” It was Damien.

“I thought you had left.” I was startled.

“No, my apologies.”

“Oh, no. No need to apologize, I … well I was wondering if you’d help me to your room.” The words were out before I had time to filter and my cheeks became warm. A clearing of a throat was made.

“I mean, sorry, I meant my room…um … which is yours… but I…” Now I was rambling. Stop me please! What was going on!

“Yes.” Was all he said, a shuffle of feet made its way towards me. The back of his right hand found my left hand, lifting his arm so mine was resting on top of his.

“Thank you.” Came out to softly for my liking.

“You’re welcome.” Came out just as soft.

“Ameilius?”

“Yes?” He sounded distracted, though I’m sure he was well aware of the going ons, not that there were going ons to be aware of. Nope none.

“I will be right back; I need something from my room before we go outside.”

“No worries child. I have wanted to go check on our guest. I shall meet you at the bottom of the stairs when you are ready, yes?” I could tell there was a light smile on his face. There was a faint pop.

“He’s gone isn’t he?”

“Yes. How did you know?”

“There’s this pop sound when they leave now. Like a suction sound.” We started to move.

“Steps. Your certainly are full of surprises.”

“Speaking of, how could you hear me or how could I speak to you…silently?” We were now out in the hall.

“Telepathy, it takes a unique concentration to project your thoughts into someone else’s mind. While, listening to someone else’s mind project to you is easier, stairs.” We climbed the stairs slowly.

“What do you mean unique concentration?”

“You felt an emotion, you were, I wouldn’t say desperate, maybe scared, an urgency.”

“How do you know that?”

“You projected it towards me, the way your voice sounded, the emotion behind it.”

“Oh. Is that the only way?” After the 15 steps we stopped at the top of the stairs.

“…with emotion?”

“Yes”

“No, it is the easiest. With practice it becomes easier.” We started walking again.

“You said that hearing thoughts is easier?”

“You can concentrate on hearing people’s thoughts while they are not projecting thoughts to you, which can be quiet difficult, if they have their guard up. If not, it could be as simple as looking at a single image and seeing multiple images and thoughts.”

“Like an inkblot test.”

“A, what test?”

“An inkblot test, it’s a tool therapists use, they hold up a paper with an ink stain on it. They then ask the person what they see. Different people see different things.”

“What’s a therapist?”

“Oh, um well a person who helps other people with their problems.” We stopped just before the door, he let go of my hand.

“Did you need assistance?”

“…I did see a therapist once, though I …”

“Inside?” I must have had a confused look on my face because he clarified what he meant.

“In the room? Do you need assistance?”

“Oh, um no.” My hand found the door knob.

“How’s your shoulder?”

“All healed up, aches though.”

“Healed?”

“I’m not without my talents, remember.”

“Right, the talents you never told me about.” My left hand was taken off the door knob. A warm hand turned into fabric, then into the softness of skin. Trailing along I felt a ridge, a scar where thread should have been.

“See, a scratch.” I pull my hand away and replace the door knob again and open the door.

“Do you ever…have you ever listened to what people were thinking …just to be nosy?”

“No, I do value one’s privacy. I use my talents solely for the greater good.” I closed the door quietly behind me. Regaining my thoughts, I replace my backpack. No phone. Where did I… pillow. Now where to put it? The pants had pockets, but they were small and my phone would be noticed. There was only one last place for me to put it. Surprisingly it fit snug and my shirt kept it from being seen, I hoped. I grabbed my glasses and put them on, it’s a comfort thing. Coming out the only sound was the door closing behind me. It was to quiet.

“Damien?” Nothing. I trace the wall a few steps down; the banister should be to my left. I walk out slowly my hand searching. My foot takes a step not replaceing solid ground. Steps! I feel a scream release from my throat as I’m lurched forward.

“EMBRY!” My hands instinctively reach forward where they are met with some type of force, my body following after. Panicking I feel around, something is guarding me from moving forward leaving me tilted.

“What…what’s going on?”

“Are you ok Embry?” It was Damien. My hands are taken steadying me back.

“I think so. I don’t understand, why didn’t I …I should have fallen.”

“Better that you didn’t, that would have been a nasty fall my dear. I used a force field to catch you.” This time it was Ameilius. Sorcery for the win.

“Thank you. Just … thank you.” I could feel my heart racing.

“What were you doing?” It was Damien.

“I came out of the room, and you weren’t there. I was looking for the banister.”

“My apologies, I was talking with Ameilius.”

“No need to apologize Damien, things happen like this more times than not.”

“Still, I should have waited for you.”

“I can manage; I must have not count my steps right. I’ll just have to be more careful.” I could feel myself getting defensive.

“That doesn’t seem like a very good way of getting around, counting steps and using your hands to feel.”

“No but it’s the only way for now, seeing as you’re the one responsible for breaking my cane. And my new cane has been stolen.” I could feel my temper starting to rise.

“You should have waited.”

“Waited? Just because I’m blind doesn’t mean I need a chaperone!”

“Alright children. It was only an accident; Embry is fine, that is the important part. Now Damien I believe you had somewhere to be?” It was Ameilius.

“Yes.” My hands are let go.

“We will see you later this evening then. Embry if you’ll still accompany me outside?” I nodded. There was shuffling on the stairs. My arm was taken and placed around, I suspect Ameilius’ arm. He had muscle but his arm was soft and relaxed. We walked forward slowly taking it step by step.

“Is he gone?”

“He’s never been one for goodbyes.” His tone was light. I just nodded my head. We reached the bottom of the stairs and took a right. We walked past the main room, taking about 20 paces more, I heard the creak of a door open. I felt the cool air rush in, the wind lightly blowing my hair back. The air smelt like rain. We stepped outside, I could hear the rain patter on the ground, but not above me. Rain on an umbrella had a distinct sound and it wasn’t there. Ameilius’ doing I suppose.

“Steps my dear.” I heard Ameilius say. We walked slowly; I counted 20 steps in all before we stepped onto a softer surface.

“Can you…can you describe it?”

“Describe what my dear?”

“The outside…” I felt him take a breath and pat my arm.

“Oh, right…well.” He took a few breaths; I could feel him looking around.

“You can begin anywhere, if that helps?”

“Right, well we are at the back of the manor. There is grass, the sky is a greyish blue…do you know what that looks like?” I stifle a laugh. It wasn’t an uncommon question.

“Sorry, I don’t mean to laugh. Yes, I’m aware of that color. Let me see if I can help you out?”

“Alright.” I take a breath.

“We came down 20 steps, what are the steps made of?”

“Wood.”

“What kind of wood? Describe it.” I can feel him twist to look over at it.

“It’s oak wood, a shiny dark brown.”

“Does it have a railing?”

“No. Should I put one in? Would that help you?” I shake my head.

“No, that won’t be necessary. Is there any plants or bushes surrounding the steps?”

“There are rose bushes on either side…about hip high.”

“Good. Now, we are on the grass, while walking I could feel my feet hitting something.”

“There are wild flowers about.” I smile at him.

“Are there trees?”

“Yes. Quite a few trees…there’s…if I remember correctly, there are thirty trees on the grounds, a forest surrounds us outside the gates. Some of the trees have wooden benches by them. There’s a stables down the way. There is a stone walkway that leads to it round the side. The front of the house has a gravel walk way to the gate, which is iron. It surrounds the whole land.”

“Thank you.” I give his arm a slight squeeze. His arm tugged on mine and we started walking again. The air is crisp as I breathe it in. The grass crunches beneath our feet and the wind is light on my skin.

“How is your guest?”

“Felyx, he’s faring well. Giving Emlyn a run for her money, he doesn’t like being waited on. A tough man, but proud man he is.”

“Is he hurt?”

“A few minor bumps and bruises. He’ll be fine, always is.”

“That’s good.”

I’m not exactly sure why I over reacted, Mils was right. No harm no foul, but still it wasn’t safe for her with the stairs. Why would Emlyn put her there? No doubt because of me, wretched women. Speaking of which, Felyx came in last night, without Alecko. Which means he mentioned to Felyx about coming, he must be on his way. As for Helenna, her tribe in the Wilting Mountains was a little harder to track, found it by nightfall. But I learned my lesson the first time I disturbed them at night. No, better to make contact while it’s still light. Damien made his way out of the shadows into the shade of the Marking Trees. The entrance was not something to take lightly, last time he breached the entrance he was stuck in the in between for a whole day before he found Helenna. Searching each mind was not something he would want to do again, lucky for him Helenna knew an ally when she saw one and gave him a talisman that would protect him against the magic’s of the Marking Trees. Passing through he was greeted by the sounds of rushing water and the hymns of the temples. A music that could rival the angels. He followed the trees that lined the wooden stairway, each step round like the trees around him. He would morph but the shine of the Temples cast all shadows out of the land. It was an earie brightness, not exactly white and not exactly of color. Making it to the top Damien was greeted with another doorway, these ones glass and required a little more finesse, knocking. The knocker resembled that of a long smooth crystal, and instead of a thud on the door it chimed. The door split apart as if it was air itself revealing a hallway that seemed to go on forever. A woman in light purple robes walked down that endless hallway, she couldn’t have been more than twenty in age.

“Hello the one who goes by Damien.” Her voice was like a song, an echo.

“Hello. It would seem you have me at a disadvantage, I know not your name.”

“My name has not yet been given, you may call me Sister”

“Right, ok…I have come to talk to Helenna.”

“Sister Helenna is in the middle of teaching a class. You may wait for her in the waiting room.”

“Thank you.” The inside of the Temple was airy and bright, so very bright. It was starting to become a nuisance, once the doors closed it seemed that the brightness became brighter still. No, the shadows were where he belonged. The girl led him to another set of doors.

“Will you be needing anything while you wait?”

“No thank you.” She closed the doors behind me. The room was of no color, just brightness and one chair was in the room, one lonely chair. How did Helenna stand it here? If I wanted that answer I would have to wait for her to finish her class. Walking to the chair he took a seat crossing his arms, waiting it is.

The air remained crisp as we walked the grounds.

“Mind if we sit for a moment?”

“Ok.” I can hear leaves rustling. We must be under a tree. My left hand was placed on a smooth surface. Feeling around I figure out it’s the arm of the bench. My hand reaches the seat and I take a seat. Ameilius sits down next to me.

“It’s peaceful out here.” I place my glasses on my head out of habit.

“I quite agree. May I ask you a question?”

“With all the questions I’ve asked you? I think I can answer a few for you.” I smiled to reassure him.

“Those glasses of yours, there not like…reading glasses, there black.”

“Yes, I suppose they are out of place here.”

“Why do you use them if you can’t see?”

“So others can’t see my eyes. In my world being blind is acknowledged, but seeing blind eyes is a whole different situation, I wear them out of habit and I guess so others around don’t feel uncomfortable.”

“Ah, well my dear if I may say, your eyes are beautiful and should not be hidden. I want you to feel comfortable.” Ameilius patted my hand lightly and relaxed back into the seat.

“My eyes…what do they look like?”

“They shine my dear, a blue moon shine.”

“A blue moon, that sounds nice.” I smile.

“…It’s all real, isn’t it?”

“Yes. I am afraid it is. It all must be quite confusing and strange for you.”

“Yes…and no, I don’t know how to explain it. It’s like I can feel the truth behind what you and Damien have told me. Like I can feel it in the air, I don’t know if it’s from me being blind or something else. In my world there’s a saying ‘I’ll believe it when I see it’. I think people take that for granted, just because you can see something happening doesn’t mean it’s the truth. Same goes for the blind, just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not the truth.”

“Wise words for someone so young.” I half smile at his comment.

“Can I ask something of you?”

“Of course child.”

“I said I would help and I don’t know how long this, whatever this is will take. This time lapse, it will make my friends worry about where I am. Damien said you were a Sorcerer and what you did yesterday…”

“What’s the question my dear?”

“Can you make him not worry? Jeffery, I don’t want them… him, to forget me. But make him think I went to a school for the blind for a little while. So he knows that I am safe and not to worry?”

“I understand. Yes, I can do that, but it won’t hold for long. If he receives any suspicion that you are not where you want him to think you are, his thoughts will fight it.”

“Ok.”

“Are you sure you want me to do this?”

“If I don’t, he will be in pain. He won’t ever stop looking for me.”

“Alright, I will take care of it.”

“Thank you.”

“You are quite welcome my dear.”

“Did Damien tell you about what happened? Why I came here?”

“He told me of the incident, yes.”

“About that man…the one that tried to kill me?”

“His name is Calistus. He is evil and dark to the core.”

“Do you know what he wanted with me?”

“He wants the sword that much is certain. As to why he went after you…?”

“Yes?”

“We are still searching for all the answers.”

“…all? So you have a few?”

“There are a few legends and myths that show a likeness to the situation at present.”

“Legends?”

“I myself do not know them very well. Perhaps you should ask Damien when he returns. He is far more knowledgeable in that department than I.”

“Somehow I highly doubt that…” I was cut-off by the sound of grass crunching. I try to pin point the direction, but the sound was moving around.

“Is there something wrong?”

“There’s a sound, a crunching on the grass…like someone is walking around…its stopped now.”

“Mah, yer a clever lassie.” My head whips up to the voice in front of me.

“Alecko. How many times have I…”

“Asked me nae tae sheer, aye, aye. Bit I’ve heard sae wee aboot yer guest ’ere, that ah couldn’t resist.”

“You’re Scottish!”

“Aye. You’re twa fur twa.” His accent was not as rough as the Scottish accent, but not like the sing song dialect of the Irish.

“Alecko, may I introduce Lady Embry.” There was a rustle, and then my hand was taken and kissed.

“A pleasure tae mak’ yer acquaintance Lady Embry.” His voice was closer to me now, lower too. He must be kneeling. His hands felt strong and callused but they held my hand softly.

“Please just Embry. It’s nice to meet you.” I offered a smile.

“OH. Yer eeys are striking. I’ve ne’er …”

“She is blind Alecko.” I avert my eyes and pull my hand away. Placing my glasses back on.

“Blind?”

“Yes.”

“She haes blind eeys?”

“If you intend to keep repeating yourself like a parrot I am going to have to turn you into one. A change I’m sure is as unwelcomed as the other.” I stifled a laugh at that. Immediately realizing that I believed that he would do it, that he could do it. But what did he mean by ‘the other’?

“A’richt, a’richt. Didnae mean tae git yer skids in a twist. A’ ah meant wis, that she herself insae blind. She kin hear ‘n’ feel juist foine, cannae she?” There was a rustle, his voice was further away now. He must have stood up.

“You make a valid point Alecko.”

“What point?” He was talking so fast that I lost my concentration on what he was saying.

“Alecko was pointing out that you, all of you, were not blind. You can hear and feel just fine, just as we all can. That you are not blind, you have blind eyes.” I never thought of it that way.

“I get the sense that no one here has ever seen a blind…someone with blind eyes?”

“Richt yer. It’s a foremaist fur sure.”

“Definitely a first.”

“I gather your world has different aspects to it.”

“Dae ye ken hee haw aboot magic?”

“Come again?”

“Right, I’m not going to be a translator.” My left hand was taken, held snugly.

“Alecko, if you’ll humor me?”

“Ye’r nae aff tae caw me intae a talkin` burd urr ye?”

“Not today.”

“What are you doing?” Words were muttered in a language I couldn’t place; in an dialect I’ve never heard of.

“There. Now we may proceed.”

“What happened?”

“Alecko, you were asking?”

“Don’t you know about magic?” I looked towards the sound of the voice.

“Your voice! You still have the accent but I understand your words in English!”

“Right you are, its only Ameilius showing off again. Now, about the magic?”

“Only what I’ve read in books or hear about.”

“Ya can read? I thought ya had blind eyes?”

“It’s called Braille.”

“What?”

“Braille, it’s a combination of dots that represent letters. It’s how I read.”

“Interestin’.”

“May we get back to the topic at hand please?” Ameilius chimed.

“And which topic would that be Ameilius?”

“Alecko?”

“Aye?”

“What are you doing here?”

“Oh, Damien asked me to come, not sure what for but I’ve got a sneaky suspicion it’s about Embry here.”

“Ah, I see. Then I shall expect more people to follow. I’ll go and make arrangements with the house, shall I?”

“Aye.”

“Embry, you will be fine?”

“Yes.” I nod with a smile. Alecko seemed friendly enough, I felt no... Weirdness about him.

“Alecko behave.”

“Aye, Don’t I always?”

“No.”

“Promise.” There was a slight pause and then a sound of acknowledgment. I could feel Ameilius get up and start crunching the grass.

“Hey Ameilius?”

“Yes?”

“Has Felyx arrived?”

“He came in last night. He had a fledgling with him.”

“Is he alright?” There was a worry behind his voice.

“Emlyn sought to him when she found him. I am sure that she would have gotten word to me if he wasn’t, you could probably replace him in the infirmary.”

“Ta.” Alecko sat beside me with a plump as Ameilius’ footsteps fade.

“Is Felyx a close friend of yours?”

“Ya could say that. He’s a shy one, doesn’t talk much.”

“Well I’m sorry that he’s hurt.”

“No worries, he can take care of himself.”

“How’d you know I was a scot? I reckon the Irish sound bout the same.”

“Being blind, my other senses had to pick up the slack I guess. I’m really good with picking up dialects. For instance, you have a softer accent then some of the Scottish accents. It’s modernized but you keep to your roots I guess. But it doesn’t have that sing song fluency like the Irish.”

“I see. That’s quite an ear ya have there. Sharp and smart.” I turn and smile at him.

“You can go and replace Felyx if you want.”

“Aye. Sounds like a plan.” I feel him get up from the bench and the grass crunches.

“Aren’t ya coming?”

“You want me to come with you?”

“Aye, I’m wantin’ to show ya off. To see Felyx’s face, it would be fun watchin’ it I reckon.”

“Ok. But I need your help.”

“My help?”

“I have blind eyes remember. I can’t see where I am going.”

“Ah Right.” He walks back to me.

“How do I help then?” I stand up and place my hands out, they touch a thin cloth like fabric. They slide up to his shoulders, which are muscular. The distance was well, a distance, he is tall. My hands meet as his right arm midway down; I put my left arm through his right arm, siding up next to him. His arm was as muscular as his shoulder.

“Lead the way.” We start to walk, the grass crunching under our weight.

“That was different.” I bow my head hiding the heat rising to my face.

“…I…I have to feel around to get around.”

“Aye, I can see that.”

“Sorry.”

“No apologies darlin’, it was a new experience. I’m sure there will be more to come, with ya being around in all.” My foot hits something causing me to trip. But Alecko’s grip fastens on my arm pulling me back up before I hit the ground.

“Sorry, I reckon that’s my fault.”

“No worries, it happens. Besides I didn’t tell you to tell me when there is a step.”

“It was a rock.”

“Ah well, that happens to.” We start walking again.

“How do ya manage this? Havin’ blind eyes?”

“I guess I adapted, didn’t really have a choice. It is hard at times, but I manage.” He stops moving which forces me to stop moving.

“There are steps.” I smile at him.

“See, you’re getting the hang of this.” I take a step forward, nineteen to go.

“Aye.” We walk slower then I’m used to. Not because I needed to though, each time I took a step Alecko thought it was necessary to make sure I wasn’t going to fall backwards.

“There, that wasn’t so bad was it?”

“Speak for yourself that took for bloody ever!” That made me laugh, shaking my head at him.

“I don’t know how you do it!” He pulls me forward and we start to walk again.

“I didn’t really have a choice, I had to adapt…it’s not all bad, it could have been worse.” It was worse, a thought that flickered by so fast that the memories flicked by like a fast forwarded movie. We stopped and Alecko let go of my arm. There was a creak. We must be at the door. Both of my hands were taken and urged me forwards. Four steps in, my hands were let go and the door closed. My right arm was taken and we start to walk again. I was fully capable of walking forwards, but I suppose everyone had their own way of helping…figuring out just as I had to with my ‘blind eyes’. I suppose I was grateful that they were making an effort, more than an effort really.

“Ya weren’t born with blind eyes were ya? It was done to ya.”

“…Why do you say that?”

“Ya said it could have been worse, not that others had it worse.”

“Who’s the smart one now?”

“Aye. I have a knack for listenin’. So what other talents are ya hidin’?”

“Hiding? What do you mean?” My thoughts turn sharply to this morning with Damien. Does he know? How does he know?

“For havin’ blind eyes. We already know ya have a talent for dialects, what else can ya do?” Instant relief. I think for a moment.

“You’re left handed.”

“How’d ya know that?”

“Earlier I was on your right arm, now I’m on your left arm. More times than not people will use their dominant hand.”

“Perceptive, does that mean you’re left handed since ya took my right arm?”

“I’m actually ambidextrous. I took your right arm because most people are right handed.”

“Maybe I’m ambidextrous.” I shake my head no.

“If you were, you would have had no problem using your right arm. You unconsciously used your left arm purely out of habit.”

“Logical deductions.” We stop.

“Is something wrong?”

“We are here”

“Here?”

“The infirmary.”

“Oh.” I was so lost in thought that I forgot my counts.

“Let us test your talents and have a bit of fun shall we?”

“What do you mean?”

“Felyx, has a certain type of dialect, let us see if ya can figure it out?”

“Ok, but you said he doesn’t talk very much. How will I…”

“Ya let me worry about that darlin’, I will get him talkin’.” I hear quite mumblings as the door opens. We move forward.

“What’s the word doctor?”

“He’ll live.” It was Emlyn. My hands were placed on a stool. I sit down replaceing the table next to me. I place my glasses on the table.

“Aye…for now.”

“How are you doing Alecko?”

“Well you know me, a bit mad...but aren’t we all?” Even though he made a joke there was something in the way that he said it.

“Yes well, we’re finished now.” There was a rustling around.

“An’ where do you think you’re going exactly? Ya have some explainin’ to do mister. So you better sit down and explain.”

“Alecko…” The voice was gruff.

“Don’t be long. I’ll put on some tea.”

“Right you are mum.”

“Will you be coming child?”

“She’s stayin’.”

“Very well.” Pop. And she was gone.

“Fa is she?”

“Don’t mind her. Explain yourself! Where did ya go yesterday? And where in the hell did ya come across a fledglin’? And why the bloody hell did ye bring it here?!” His voice rose with each question.

“Ah’m sorry. Ah wis on ma wye hame, ah sweir it. Ah wis gyan ben Iris forest ah heard a skraich doon the road, this loon wis yelling fur his dad tae get up. Ah gotten closer a saw the bleed on the min. Ah telt the loon yon his da wis deid an tae scowp hame. Yon’s fin the fledgling came out of nae wye, ah couldn’t jis leave, noo cwid ah. Teen me aa nicht jis tae wound the fucker. He gotten a tarry shot in, this ae wis different, smert an strong. Fin ah gotten hurt the safest placie ah cwid think I’ wis here. Besides ah kent ye fair go show up sooner or later on account Damien askin ye tae… Are ye gowkit?” His voice was rougher than Alecko’s. He had to be Scottish as well, but the way he spoke it was different from how Alecko spoke it, it wasn’t Gaelic. That in itself was a different language.

“How deep were the gashes?” I guess he wasn’t mad anymore.

“Ah hiv had waur, don t… ”

“Northern Doric! You’re speaking in Northern Doric Scottish!” Blurts out like an epiphany before I could stop myself.

“Fa is she?”

“Oh ya are good. Felyx, this is Embry. She’s the reason we’re here, well part of the reason I suspect.” I hear a stool scrap across the floor and heavy steps are taken towards me. I could feel his eyes bearing into mine. I look away.

“Don’t be rude Felyx.” The man in front of me cleared his throat.

“Apologies.”

“It’s ok,” There was a rustle of clothing and lighter steps then before, Alecko. My hand was taken and put in another warm hand.

“Bow all ya want Felyx, she can’t see ya.” My hand was squeezed, probably out of shock.

“Cum ben again?”

“She has blind eyes.”

“Ach, a pleasure tae meet ye milady.” Felyx relaxed his hand and another kiss was placed on my hand. Was everyone so old fashioned here? My hand was let go and he shuffled back a few feet.

“That’s it!? No, ‘that’s interestin’’ or anythin’?” Silence.

“Well you’re just the epitome of borin’.”

“Emlyn is wytin.” Heavy steps walk past me and fade away. We sit quietly. An inclination scratches at the surface.

“Alecko?”

“Aye?”

“How long have you and Felyx been together?”

“Six years.”

“That’s a long time.”

“Aye…Maybe too long.” Alecko took my hand and helped me off the stool; lacing my arm around his we follow the silent footsteps.

“What do you mean? You two seem connected, like really connected.”

“Aye… And that comes with time. He’s just bin… distant.”

“Maybe it’s not what you think. Maybe he’s…”

“He might not speak a lot, but his actions speak just fine.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Aye, never mind about us. What about you?”

“What do you mean?”

“Do ya have any lovers back home?” I shake my head.

“No, not many people have the patience for someone who’s blind.”

“You’re not blind, ya...”

“Have blind eyes. Right.”

“Well if it’s any consolation, I wouldn’t be able to keep my hands off of ya. If I were in your world.”

“And straight?”

“Nae. I’ve dated birds before. Trust me you’re a total knockout. Any bloke would be a right git for not given it a chance.” I give him a sideways smile.

“So how did you and Felyx meet?”

“That I’m afraid will have to wait for another time.”

“Right, Sorry I didn’t mean to pry.”

“Nae, it’s not that. We’re just outside the door.”

“The door?”

“To the main room.”

“Oh.” Why do I keep forgetting my counts? I feel Alecko start to pull away when I pull him back.”

“What’s wrong?”

“We…we didn’t walk here did we?”

“I was wonderin’ when you’d pick up on that.”

“I don’t understand”

“It’s called shiftin’. It’s a lot like morphin’ except that I don’t have to use the shadows. Picture forwardin’ the space around ya or stoppin’ the space around ya as time passes ya by. But ya can’t go somewhere ya haven’ been before.”

“Can you go somewhere you’ve been in the past?”

“Nae…well yes and no. It can be done. But changin’ the past can lead to rash outcomes.”

“Like what?” The door opens.

“There you are.” It was Ameilius.

“Miss me already?”

“No. Trouble is never too far behind you Alecko.”

“Promise I was on my best behavior. Not that I had a choice with this house an’ all.” My arm was let go and the door slide across the tracks. Alecko’s footsteps shuffled across the wooden floor.

“Sorry about that, Alecko he can be…different at times.” Different?

“He really was on his ‘best behavior’.”

“I’m glad. Shall we? Emlyn has tea and biscuits.” I found the arm he offered and smiled. Ameilius sat me at the table. His footsteps were heavy but fading, they all of a sudden got louder.

“Before I forget.” My left hand was taken again.

“Fit are ye deein?”

“Removing a language barrier.” Unknown words were spoken again. Footsteps ensued and a slight squeak was made as Ameilius sat in a chair across the way. Emlyn and Alecko sat together their voices were closer than Ameilius’ voice; but they weren’t at the table. They must have been on a couch. A clearing of a throat, a warm cup placed in my hand told me that Felyx was at the table with me, across from me.

After an hour Helenna finally graced me with her presence. She wasn’t a woman to be trifled with but still an hour? She wore the same color robe, but her heels clicked on the floor.

“Damien darling what do I owe this pleasure?”

“Just an answer to two questions.”

“Alright.”

“How do you stand it here?”

“Power is not without sacrifice.”

“I need your help in procuring the Sword of Valdronius, will you come to the Manor?”

“Straight to business then, how very droll of you. It is interesting to know for a fact that the Sword is lost. Rumors fly but fact, fact buries ones’ soul, wouldn’t you say? No more whimsical thoughts for a fact, no I do prefer a good rumor.”

“Helenna?”

“The Manor you say? Ameilius and Emlyn that makes three. Who else is to accompany you?”

“I have asked Alecko, and where he goes Felyx will follow. And Embry.”

“Embry? I have not met this person.”

“No she is a new addition. She is blind, Calistus went after her, and anyone Calistus does not want in the picture is worth protecting.”

“And why would Calistus trifle in such an area?”

“She has the most strikingly blue eyes.”

“Blue eyes you say? How very interesting, does she know of the myths and legends?”

“No details have been passed around. I have yet to figure out if she knows anything.”

“Do you require my talents on the girl?”

“No. That will not be necessary. No I believe your talents; all your talents, will best be welcomed retrieving the Sword.”

“Talents, yes let us talk about talents for a moment shall we? Ameilius and Emlyn are understandable. They have power one dreams of and the ability to control it, and connections no doubt. they do however lack in some areas. Areas such as those of Wiccans, earthly parasites. But to ask Alecko and Felyx of all to choose from? Felyx is the one that holds the real promise of power, not that he will ever us it. Alecko is the one with the curiosity, he is the one that will go beyond his limits. He is reckless, maybe even more reckless than you. Which brings it all into a neat little bow. Your talents are many, your power unknown. With all these specific talents you’ve picked through one would think you had a lead?”

“Not at the moment, no.”

“Then why rally the troops?”

“The Sword, it just disappeared. There was no magic found to have disturbed the area, no disturbance was detected.”

“The Sword has a magic all its own, you know that. No Damien, there is more to your words…you don’t believe it was the real Sword that has gone awry.”

“I have had my doubts yes. The Royal family would not have left it so vulnerable.”

“You believe they used magic to hide it. How very exciting, you want to go on a treasure hunt.”

“Need a map first, but yes that is the idea. Will you help?”

“You have your seven Damien. It will take me an hour to place everything in order, then I shall be ready.”

“Wonderful. One more thing, I need to go somewhere. Will you tell Ameilius that I will not be back for dinner.”

“Ameilius or the girl? Do not think me estranged to the way you spoke of her. I know you Damien darling.”

“It would seem not well enough Helenna. The Sword is my main focus, nothing beyond that matters until the Sword is back in its rightful place.”

“As long as we are on the same page.” Her heels clicked as she walked away.

“Goodbye Damien.” Before I could even reply she cast me out of the temple. I stood facing the entrance, well that was easier than I thought. I will end up regretting this. I know I will, well what’s done is done. Now, for one more stop.

I just listened to the talk about neighboring towns, mostly consisting of this person says hello, children declaring their magic, or someone was selling their horses. I got the impression that Ameilius and Emlyn were known by many people or they knew many people. Ameilius told us that we should be expecting Helenna for dinner. Alecko disapproved of her but made no further comment. She was a priestess…of sorts, from the Wilting Mountains, a sanctuary. Though from the way Alecko disapproved of her there must be more to her character. I stifle a yawn.

“Tired?” It was Felyx. I turned to face him.

“I’m sorry?”

“Are you tired?”

“A little. I…Didn’t sleep well.” On account of being up most the night.

“I think I will go take a nap before dinner…would you mind? Helping me to my room?”

“…uh…Alright.” The chair scrapes back softly and footsteps are taken towards me. I stand up my right arm taken and placed around his left, he was stout and muscular.

“Where are you two goin’?” Alecko sounded confused.

“I’m just a little tired. I was going to take a nap…if it’s alright? I don’t want to be rude?”

“Not at all dear.” Emlyn’s voice was soft. The door slides closed and I tug on Felyx’s arm.

“Aye?”

“Do you mind if we walk and not…shift?”

“I see Alecko has been flaunting his magic. We can walk, I’m not one for shifting.” We start forwards and I count the steps as we go. The silence is a little unnerving.

“You and Alecko, you two are good together.”

“Aye. Why do ya say that?”

“I might not be able to see, but I can sure hear the connection you two have when you talk to each other.”

“What’s different about it, then talking to other people?”

“There’s this attentiveness, in the way that you two speak. I don’t know how to explain it better.” We make it up the stairs without his making a comment. We stop at the top and I feel him turn towards me. He lingers, like he wants to ask me or tell me something but changes his mind.

“Which room is yours?”

“To the right, first on the left.” He places my hand on the handle and his footsteps fade away. He definitely has something on his mind, poor Alecko.

The door clicks softly behind me. A yawn escapes as I make my way to the bed. Stretching I am reminded of the phone I stashed in my clothing. Taking it out I fiddle with it in my hand. What to do with you? If I keep it on me then it’s suspicious and if it’s found, then I would have to explain that I doubted them…but I don’t doubt them…but what about Jeffery? If I believe them then Damien is telling the truth about ‘time’ in this…realm. I take a deep breath and put the phone in my bag and lay back on the bed. Thoughts of Jeffery bring aches of longing for home. Where I’m comfortable, and not out of my element. Where I am safe…well I was safe till that man came. Am I safe here? I don’t know…but I feel safe. My thoughts dispersed as my body became as heavy as my eyes.