Fantasy Diplomatic Games

[Gray Sage]

Djac stared at the ceiling of the little hovel, watching the smoke twist and dance in rivers above the bed. Morning crept through the single window of the room, already bringing heat before the sun was fully above the horizon. It was today. Today the plan would be set into motion. He wondered how long it would be before he started to see any real effects. Still, he trusted in its logic, confident in his role.
He took another drag of the rolled tobacco and blew it out in a slow, steady wave, wondering briefly if it would affect him differently if smoke could harm him.
“Do you have to do that in my house?” cooed the voice beside him, stirring from her slumber. He ignored her, trying to stay focused on the plan. He had difficulty concentrating, however, as his companion started nuzzling his shoulder, making her way up his neck until she caressed his ear. “Some of us don’t have resistance to smoke.” she whispered. Djac put out his vice, and lifted himself from the bed, looking around the twilit room for where his trousers had been discarded the night before.
“No come back!” Tamina moaned, grabbing his hand before he stood. “Smoke all you want! I changed my mind, I don’t care!” she flirted.
“Won’t your husband be back this morning with the traveling merchants?” Djac asked, snatching his pants from the floor and sliding them on.
“So?” she replied, started to sound genuinely irritated. Djac turned back around to face her, sliding his fingers through her long black hair and looking intently into her eyes.
“So,” he said gently “I can’t imagine he’ll be very happy to see me.” he placed a soft but sensual kiss on her lips before pulling a way to look for his tunic. “Besides, I need to be back at the palace early. I have important business I need to attend to.”
“Fine.” Tamina sighed, her irritation melting. “But my husband will be gone in another two days.” She shrugged. “If you’re still in town…”
“I’ll know right where to find you.” Djac said, pulling up the rest of his belongings. He crossed the tiny room in three strides and silently slipped through the door, giving her one last smirk before the door latched again. He turned to face the city, the high position of the secluded room giving him a modest view of Agnihar with a glimpse of the sea and the incoming ships.
The city was starting to wake; merchants pulling out their goods, pedestrians making their way down the cobbled streets. Djac stopped to buy spiced pita to fill his growling stomach as he walked toward the palace.
Only a few miles from his overnight lodgings, the walk was refreshing, giving him a chance to see Agnihar’s citizens up close, however dreary they were. He thought life in the country was bad. Things seemed equally depressing, if not more so in this area. And this was one of the wealthier parts of the city. Who knew what the poverty stricken areas looked like.
The palace was made of an ugly orange brick, though marvelously constructed. It towered above all the other buildings in the city, protected by a mote of dried tar, which the correctly gifted person could turn into a boiling vat should an enemy come calling.
The draw bridge was down, allowing Djac make it halfway up to the palace before two guards blocked his path.
“I’m Djac Nassar, I’m here with my clan for the Congregation.”
“All of the clans arrived yesterday, and were given instructions not to leave.” The guard said.
“Yes, which is why I had to sneak out.” Djac rolled his eyes, not realizing it was going to be a challenge to get back into the palace.
“Djac?!” Yelled a voice from inside the courtyard. His second oldest brother, Haresh.
“Haresh! I’m so glad to see you! Please tell these gentlemen to let me through!” Djac waved back, a stupid grin on his face. Haresh gave the guards a nod as he approached, and they let him pass.
“You were told to stay in the palace. We’ve been looking for you for nearly an hour.” Haresh growled in a low voice, shoving Djac forward.
“Oh, come on! We’re only in the city a few nights and you don’t think I want to take in the sights!”
“Yeah? Did these sights have a name?” Haresh shoved him again.
“Tamina. As lovely as the night sky, and twice as invigorating!” Djac chuckled, but Haresh shoved him against the wall, pinning Djac there with his forearm.
“This is not a game!” Haresh seethed. Djac twisted his brother’s arm, simultaneously kicking Haresh’s foot out from under him, causing him to fall to his knee. Djac pulled out a dagger and slightly pressed the blade to Haresh’s throat.
“Don’t try me.” Djac warned. Haresh huffed in annoyance and Djac resheathed his dagger. Harshed got to his feet again, rotating his arm to shake off the pain Djac inflicted.
“If you want some company we could have gotten it for you.” Djac rolled his eyes. Haresh knew full well Djac would never pay for his trysts. “But the princess is coming today, you can’t slack off! You can’t be running around galavanting however you see fit! You know how important this is!” Haresh harshly whispered as a servant walked passed.
“I’m well aware of my role in this operation. I don’t want it to fail any more than you do!” Djac answered back.
“Good! Then you’d better start acting like it.” Haresh took in a deep breath and composed himself. “Kasim will want to see you want to see you in his chambers.”
“Fine, but after I have a bath. We can’t have the princess meeting me like this! I smell like another woman’s jasmine!” Djac clapped his brother on the shoulder and left for the bath house.
Djac made quick work of getting clean, and found his way back to his room where an attendant dressed him in a simple aegean blue tunic that cut off at the shoulder to keep his arms cool on the increasingly hot morning. He trimmed up the goatee shaping his upper lip and chin. He looked at himself in a small mirror mounted on his wall. He stared back at his reflection.
Djac had been described as heartbreakingly handsome. He had a strong jawline, perfectly drawn features, from his lips to his eyebrows. His black hair always managed to fall in just a few soft curls over the side of his forehead. His body showed just the right amount of muscles, and his skin tone was a silky bronze.
He was the third of four brothers, and yet he outshone them all. Better looking, better with a sword, more gifted with fire, and the most gifted with women. And that was the real reason he was there, after all. Kasim and Haresh gave Djac just enough work to feel important. He knew how they manipulated him and his gifts, supposedly all in the effort to better the clan. But, despite their grabs for power, their love of money, and their general asshole nature, Djac loved his family, and he loved his clan. He wanted to see them prosper.
So that’s why he had agreed to this venture. That’s why he and his brother’s had come up with a plan. That’s why Djac had to seduce the Princess.

 

[_Annalise_]

She studied herself silently in the looking glass before her. The overprotective captain had finally coerced his charge back to the relative safety of the ship to await the escort that was typically sent by the realms ruling party. Though Ann could not help but have dreams of escaping again, as her lady in waiting approached and immediately scolded her over her appearance, fairly pulling her down to her quarters to repair the damage. She swore she could still hear Miguel cackling above at her panicked expression.

‘This heat…” Iris muttered to her princess, and Ann withheld a wince as another pin was jabbed within her light-colored tresses, barely missing piercing her skull, she was sure. But her hair was tamed into its elaborate chignon again, albeit forcefully, and the taller woman turned her attention to polishing the dust from the silver clasps that ran down the chest of her bodice, right above the bone crushing ornate belt at her waist that she wasn’t sure Iris could get any tighter if she tasked it to the guards above. Suppressing a sigh, Ann’s head canted to the side, wondering if the elaborate gown, suggesting of the wealthiness of her homeland, was such a good choice for this particular realm.

“Posture, your Highness.” Her back instinctively straightened at the voice of the Duke of Augustine, and her gaze lifted from the study of herself to find the severe looking man behind her, frowning. “The retainers have arrived to escort you to the palace.”

Eyes narrowed at his strained voice. Well that was certainly off for him. “What is it?”

Obviously irritated, the Duke’s tone flattened. “It has been suggested that you go alone. For now.”

A single brow lifted. “How unusual.” But perhaps it was customary for them. They mustn’t jump to conclusions already. Turning, Annalise forced her lips to curve into a calming smile. “Tis alright, Oliver. We shall continue as we typically do. No need to fret just yet.” Her soft voice cajoled, and she saw the tension within him momentarily ease. Probably not for long though. Thanking Iris, she turned back to make her way back towards the main deck and ramp.

Turisas, her personal guard, stopped her on her way down. Sentinels had no reasoning of personal space, and she very nearly slammed into him as his body blocked her path.

“Turisas does not like this.” Gravelly tones muttered.

Oh for all the gods sakes, were they all so unsure of her ability to succeed at this? Ann wrinkled her nose at him. “Well, Turisas is going to have to like it. This is a direct request from our King.”

At his glare, all she could do was heave a sigh and address all of them that had gathered round. Hovering like mother hens. “This will be fine. ‘I’ will be fine. “the words stressed. “I promise to send word later on, but for now I really must go.”

The firm set of her jaw pleaded for no further delays, and after a decisive moment, her small band of loyal friends moved so that she could continue.

There was a carriage waiting for her. A very grand, very noticeable, more than likely uncomfortable, carriage. How in all the realms would such a contraption fit through the narrowed streets? Feeling quite dubious, she nonetheless accepted a hand up and settled herself within it, though immediate regret jarred her very bones as it began its precarious journey to the palace.

A small, gloved hand lifted to grasp the edge of the opening, helping to brace her body and hopefully keep it from falling to the floor. ‘Duty, Dignity, Decorum. Duty, Dignity, Decorum.’ The words repeated in her mind and she glanced out at the streets to hopefully help take her mind off of the current situation.

The sights did not do much to ease, however. The realms citizens seemed…less than pleased as the carriage moved through them. Though she couldn’t blame them. Most of them looked as if they hadn’t bathed in some time, and to add to that, she could almost swear she could feel their hunger and unrest. Teeth worked at her lower lip and she settled back as much as she could. Was the kingdom in such dire straights that it couldn’t see the obvious displeasure of it’s people?

Annalise hadn’t much more time to think of it though as the carriage stopped and footmen opened the door of it to collect her. Thank gods. She wasn’t one to ever faint, but if it had gotten much more heated in that carriage, she would have either had to succumb to a spell or jump out of the window. Gathering her damnable skirts, she was going to kill Oliver and Iris for her current state, she stepped down and finally made her way up the palace steps and inside. Of course, even the shade within didn’t offer much relief and it took everything within her to keep her chin up and her regal features expressionless. What she wouldn’t give for a cool pool of water to leap into right about now. The silent footmen ushered her to a set of double doors that were opened at her approach, allowing her to enter a large anti chamber with a dais at the end.

She noticed first that the room was almost completely packed, and though such wasn’t a complete shock, the fact that they were all men was.

Was the fire realm completely a patriarchal society then?

Instinctively, and without it being noticed, the princess began absorbing facts and filing them away. How many doors, windows there were within the room. The fact that the men seemed to stand in several groups rather than all together. The way some of said groups differed in dress, and in obvious wealth. She took stock of it all and committed it to memory along with faces and demeanors. There may be need of it in the future.

Approaching the end of the path that had parted for her, there was only the faintest of nuances within that storm colored gaze that signaled possible surprise that she was facing a line of men upon the dais instead of a solitary head of the realm.

Only sheer experience and training had her correctly calculating that they must be ruling figureheads of the various clans behind her and without missing much of a beat, her slight form dipped into a graceful curtsy. Rising, she smiled as her lilting voice filled the room, thanking whatever gods she needed to that it sounded strong and confident. This was her duty. She knew what to do. She could do this.

“My lords. On behalf of his majesty, and the protector of the water realms, I want to extend my gratitude in your welcome. As a gift for the fire realms, King Einar sends a new vessel crafted from his personal ship makers and hopes that you will accept it, and the items particular to our kingdom on board, as an offer of peace and goodwill.”

It was all typical of past diplomatic ventures, but as Annalise scanned the faces before her, some smiling grimly, most frowning, and a couple looking positively lecherous, she didn’t think this venture was going to be as straightforward as what she was used too. A foreign, steely determination came over her, and her smile seemed to brighten. It didn't matter what was to come. She would not fail.

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac rapped on Kasim’s door with the hilt of his dagger. It swung open to reveal Ibn, Kasim’s manservant who always reminded Djac of a snake. Ibn ushered Djac into the room, to where Kasim and Haresh were huddled around a table.
“We missed you at breakfast, Djac.” Kasim said, not taking his gaze from the map he was looking at.
“I wasn’t hungry.” Djac shrugged, not wanting to get the same lecture he had gotten from Haresh. Kasim’s glare flickered up from the map to meet Djac’s eyes, signalling his disapproval, but moved on.
“Now, with the twelve Clans here, things are bound to be tense. Sheik Sinna is no longer strong enough to keep the peace. Change is imminent.” Kasim sighed, the faintest drop of fear in his words.
“Sinna was never strong enough to keep peace.” Haresh mumbled. “Look at this realm. It’s falling apart.” Haresh knocked over a war piece that stood on the map.
“It will depend on which clan leader is the first to try to grab power at this Congregation. It is only a matter of time. It could even be today.” Kasim eyed them both. “Once someone does they will obviously be subdued, and we will have to call an emergency meeting of the remaining clan leaders to discuss the future. We will push to overthrow Sinna and institute a stronger system of government.”
“With you as king?” Djac mumbled. Kasim and Haresh looked over at Djac in frustration.
“I am not after power, Djac!” Kasim spat. “I do this for the people of this realm! It cannot have escaped your notice how they suffer!”
“Well it isn’t exactly like you and Haresh have been forthcoming about this plan, Kasim. Bed the princess, sure, fine, but why? You two have still neglected to tell me anything of value.” Djac said, his anger rising.
“You are the only one who can do this job. Women seem unable to resist your charms and it is imperative that this Annalise is no exception!” Haresh countered.
“Striking a deal with the mad king seems very unwise, brothers.” Djac said, lacing ‘brothers’ with contempt. “Especially with a man who would give his own daughter’s honor away just to strike a deal with an unstable government.”
“Since when have you cared about a woman’s honor?” Haresh spat.
“Enough!” Kasim shouted. “Djac, you are in no position to be making political decisions! Haresh and I are head of the family, you will do well to remember it! The bottom line is, the people of this realm are starving and weak and King Einar is going to change that! Do as you’re told.”
Djac bit his tongue.
“Forgive me gentleman…” Ibn slithered. “But it looks like the planning session is about to be cut short.” Ibn lifted the curtain back from the small balcony outside Kasim’s room to reveal the courtyard and drawbridge where a carriage was approaching. “She’s here.” Ibn smiled. Kasim looked at his brothers and gestured to adjourn.
They walked silently down to the Congregation room. Nearly everyone was assembled by the time they got there, with a few stragglers like themselves. Djac and his brother’s approached the Sheik and kissed his obsidian ring before taking their place in the corner with Havec, their chief cleric.
“Did you see what she looks like?” Havec asked, curious to know how difficult Djac’s job was going to be. Djac shook his head, starting to feel rather annoyed by his “assignment”. A hush came over the crowd as the doors opened for the princess, and everyone turned to face her. Being so near the back of the room, Djac didn’t get a good look at first, but the crowds parted ways for her soon enough, almost as if she were a disease.
When Djac finally laid eyes on her, the first thing that struck him was her posture. She held herself more like a queen than a shy diplomat. She was pretty, to be sure, but she looked stern and confident, as if the room was full of sheep and she was the wolf, not the other way around. He noticed too that she was clad in heavy garments, and addressed with no entourage. Whomever prepared the trip for her was clearly not concerned with her well-being.
When she approached the Sheik bowed. Different from a bow typically seen in the fire realm, but elegant all the same. The most shocking thing, however, came when she spoke.
“My lords. On behalf of his majesty, and the protector of the water realms, I want to extend my gratitude in your welcome. As a gift for the fire realms, King Einar sends a new vessel crafted from his personal ship makers and hopes that you will accept it, and the items particular to our kingdom on board, as an offer of peace and goodwill.” It was all Djac could do not to gasp. His brother’s refrained too, but some of those surrounding him were not so tactful.
“Audacious isn’t she? To speak first.” Havec whispered to Djac. He was shocked, but somehow admired her tenacity. He wondered what the Sheik thought the same. There was a long and uncomfortable moment of silence before the Sheik spoke, but the princess did not fidget or even blush.
“We welcome you, your highness. Your presence here marks the beginning of a bright future. Think of what fire and water can do for this world when their forces are united.” Sinna sounded about a thousand years old, seemingly barely able to get the words out. He held out his hand, the obsidian ring waiting for the princess’s lips. She looked at the ancient, bony hand in confusion, and approached it warily. Just as she was about to take his hand to shake it, Djac lunged forward.
“Your excellency!” He cried. The princess jolted at Djac’s interjection, a tiny break in her calm demeanor. She dropped Sinna’s hand in her surprise and Djac approached the Sheik. “A thousand apologies. Coming in late, I neglected to kiss” he gave Annalise a hinting look “the most noble of rings.” It was a lie, he had kissed the ring upon his arrival, but Sinna would not have remembered two minutes ago, and for the princess to shake the Sheik’s hand instead of kissing the ring would have been a grave insult. Djac stood and kissed the obsidian again, before bowing in apology to the princess.
‘Forgive me your highness, but there can be no proceedings until all members of the Congregation have kissed the noble ring. It was a foolish error. I’m so sorry to have interrupted. It was a matter of principal and etiquette.”
He lifted his eyes to meet hers. Their blue was so fierce, they might have been made of ice. But her expression was soft, and he thought, maybe, even a touch grateful.
Djac went back to his place beside his brothers, confusion knitting in his brow. Kissing the ring of the Sheik was among their oldest and most important traditions. The princess did not have an entourage to protect her. She had not known speaking first would be disreputable. She was dressed like she was still in the north. Most importantly, she did not know to kiss the ring. He knew the tensions between their realms likely meant that she would be unpracticed in their ways, but to have so little knowledge? It was like someone was setting her up to fail.

 

[_Annalise_]

When Annalise was younger, she used to enjoy exploring the sacred halls that laid deep in the bowels of the cliff where the Crethean castle stood tall and proud. Within those halls held the precious books and scrolls containing the histories of every realm known to them, including their own. The water realms were keepers of those stories, they were the truth seekers, and each delicate page had been carefully penned by one of her forefathers.

As she became older, and was charged the duties of diplomat, probably moreso to rid her father of her than anything, she did less exploring and more reading. Indeed, every realm was meticulously researched before she began her assignment. Ann poured over words speaking of the customs, ways of speech, dress and politics that were relevant to the specific kingdom and the people she was to meet.

The weeks leading up to her visit to the fire realms, she had followed her typical protocol with one exception. There had been no documents of much relevance to study. It had struck her as odd at the time, but she had shaken the feeling off, assured that her prior experience would get her through. After all, her skills of memorization and languages had never failed her. She had never faltered.

Until now…

Ann had brushed off the initial response of the room after she had spoken. One mistake. One mistake she could repair. But the hand that had been held out to her expectantly had her feeling her first thread of unease. The touching of hands wasn’t typical of initial greetings between royal parties. At least not that she had ever experienced. Keeping her face serene was a chore as she desperately racked her brain for proper protocol. Was he really wanting her to shake his hand? Her second mistake…hesitation. There was no way out of it. She would have to go with her assumption. But as she moved forward and felt her fingers brush against the papery skin of the sheik before her, one of the men upon the dais had interrupted. Loudly enough, in fact, to actually startle her into dropping the hand, and she watched with barely contained wonderment as he continued forward, proclaiming his grave mistake and actually kissing the offered hand.

It took only that mere moment for the princess to realize that he had just saved her from a rather serious offense and the barest of true smiles softened the severity of her current demeanor in grateful acknowledgement on what he had done. Feeling like a minnow in a sea of sharks, his actions, whether knowingly compassionate or not, gave her enough time to recover some sort of semblance of her former confidence. A new tactic would have to be observed.

Her attention turning back to the sheik, her persona seemed to change. Regal features gentled, her movements slowing and becoming more deliberately graceful. Once again did she reach out to take the offered hand, but this time her gaze dropped in demure respect and her body lowered, knees beneath the pool of fabric almost skimming the floor. In a display of extreme deference to his station, her lips descended upon the ring. It was quite the most dramatic action of humility she knew to perform, something only reserved for her father in the rarest of occasions, and typically only when he was perturbed, but one she instinctively knew was needed to repair her prior disservice.

Still lowered, she spoke, and this time her lilting tones were soft and sincere as she pushed the slightest note of compulsion within her voice. “Your excellency, I hope that you will allow me to say what honor your words bring to my King and our realm. Your welcome is most gracious and appreciated, and I pray a bright future upon your kingdom and the future of our alliance.”

Rising, her hands dropped to her sides, palms open and slightly outward. It was as submissively respectful she could be to honor what she had seen of their culture so far, without demoralizing herself or her position.

The silence that followed seemed to last hours, but the air around them seemed less tense, she thought at least, and finally, the sheiks face seemed to lighten in faint appreciation, a hand motioning to the men around him.

Ann let out a breath that she didn’t know she had been holding. The strain of feeling as though she had to watch her back was exhausting. If only she knew why her entourage had been ordered back to the ship. Miguel would have been able to lighten the air with one of his stupidly witty comments at least. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right. Continuing to smile as one by one, the different clans stepped forward to offer names and who they represented, she forced herself to concentrate. She was only tired from the journey and ill-prepared, and her brain was obviously working overtime to reason out the strangeness of it all. A curl slipped its pin from the humidity and it took everything in her not to shove it off her forehead in irritation. By the all water gods, please let there be some refreshment or rest offered after this.

The last group stirred, and golden head canted to the side slightly, blue eyes sharpening with curiosity as the head of the clan where she assumed the man from earlier belonged too, stepped forward. Ann needed an ally, she was coming to realize, if she was going to make it through the rest of the day without failing. Or, for the rest of the weeks she would be here, if today’s protocol was any indication of how this all would go. But could anyone here be truly trusted? She knew she walked a fine line, and the game she would have to play by trusting someone not of her realm was dangerous. It just didn’t seem like she was going to have much of a choice though.

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac eyed the princess as the scene subtly shifted to introductions. He had always possessed a somewhat natural talent for reading people, but it oddly felt like it was an invasion of privacy to study Annalise. He kept his eyes on her though, watching her perfect posture and graceful greetings as she was introduced to each of the clan leaders.
“Good work.” Kasim said in Djac’s ear. “Getting her to trust you is a good strategy.” Djac bristled at the implication. Now that he thought about it, he hadn’t intervened for any other reason than to prevent her from making a terrible mistake. The Sheik would likely have been merciful. The worst outcome would likely have been that negotiations were stalled or looked on much less favorably. But he had seen diplomats refuse to kiss the ring out of pride or defiance, and it had been bloody.
“Yes, well. Every relationship must be built on trust.” Djac said to his brother. “Now would you stop analyzing my every move?” Kasim pulled back to whisper to Havec as they waited their turn to be introduced. Djac made a little game out of which clan leaders presented the largest threats to the Sheik, and the princess as he watched. There was Rameses, of Al Cara. Rumor was he had decapitated ten men before he was eighteen. Next was Jethro, of Shiloh. A wise leader, and a family man. Someone Djac wouldn’t mind having on his side if he ever needed an ally. Then there was Sinbad who mysteriously managed to be widowed four times after each of his wives bore him daughters. The last party introduced to the princess included Ravi from Prandeep. Djac liked to consider Ravi his best friend. Though they only saw each other on rare occasions, they got along remarkably well. Ravi was only a year younger than Djac, and had the same adventurous and carefree spirit. He was kind when it mattered, though Djac thought he took his responsibilities a little less seriously than he ought to.
“And this is Kasim and Haresh of IshFahar.” Djac’s brothers made the appropriate bows of respect and turned to Havec.
“Our chief cleric.” Kasim motioned to Havec who bowed tersely, blending into the background. “And our younger brother, Djac.” Kasim clapped him on the shoulder. Djac bowed low, coming up to find her blue eyes piercing into his. Though he prided himself on being able to read people, her expression could have been any number of things. Dismissal? Curiosity? Indifference? Suspicion? The curl resting on her forehead, somehow representing a spirit that didn’t enjoy being bridled or tamed. The beads of sweat gathered on her forehead telling him she had incredible strength of will to politely meet with all the leaders through the obvious discomfort in the heat. He broke her stare and looked to the floor. The formalities continued between Djac’s brother and Annalise, Haresh joking about her having to learn all the names of the clan leaders, then Kasim lightheartedly saying that if she needed anything, the four of them could be counted on to help. They bid their goodbyes to the princess and the Sheik, and exited the room. Djac couldn’t resist a backward glance at the princess who he found looking back at him just as the doors closed between them.
“How could you be so reckless?” Haresh whispered harshly. “Kasim and I gave you plenty of opportunities to say something to her and you didn’t utter a word? What are you playing at?” Haresh shoved Djac.
Djac scratched his forehead in frustration, holding back a punch that would likely break Haresh’s jaw.
“How about I don’t tell you how to do your job, and you don’t tell me how to do mine?” Djac rumbled.
“Djac is right, Haresh.” Kasim said. Djac looked at him in surprise. Kasim gave Djac a look of confidence, “Djac knows what he’s doing. He’s taken more lovers than you or I have combined.” A backhanded compliment, but Djac took it. It was the first time Kasim had shown any real certainty in Djac’s capabilities. Haresh waved dismissively, storming off toward his rooms. “Don’t go too far, brother. They’ve invited the leaders to dinner with the princess tonight.” Kasim called after him, then turned to Djac, putting his hands on both his shoulders. “I have faith in you.”
Then walked away with Havec. Djac turned toward the door that had just been shut to the Congregation room, where the princess stood on the other side. He had a heavy feeling in the pit of his stomach that he couldn’t shake. Seducing the princess had been a far off goal for months. Now that it was here, he imagined it would be much more difficult than he had anticipated.
Djac strolled through the hot courtyard when an idea struck him.
He turned on his heel and rushed down to the kitchens, looking through the maids to find the face he wanted. Finally, he spotted her, defeathering a chicken in a small corner of the room.
“Talia.” Djac smirked. Talia looked up at the sound of her name. Her eyes brightened but she did not smile. She had always had the biggest crush on him, which he may have encouraged from time to time, but now he genuinely needed her help.
“My lord.” she said, turning her attention back to the chicken. “What can I do for you? I’m afraid dinner won’t be ready for a few hours yet.”
“I need your help.” He crossed his arms and leaned against the door frame.
“The last time you said that, I nearly got thrown in the stocks.” She yanked a fistful of feathers.
“An exaggeration. And water under the bridge!” He smiled at her, flashing the charm he knew worked so well.
“I ask again, what can I do for you?” The question was more compulsory than genuine willingness, but he had to work with what he had.
“Do you remember what it was like to be a lady’s maid?” He asked. She scoffed, sending some feathers up in the air.
“You may be pretty, Djac, but you couldn’t pass for a lady.” Djac’s eyes narrowed.
“It’s not for me. I need you to work for the princess.” At this Talia stopped her work to look up at him in disbelief.
“The water princess?” Djac nodded once. She looked suspicious. “She needs help. If she’s going to succeed in her negotiations here, she needs someone who knows our ways. I know she’s already offended half the leaders, and if she messes up tonight at the dinner, that could very well be the end of it.”
“What do you want me to do?” she asked, her face still incredulous.
“Dress her. Teach her proper greetings. Give her advice on how to act and behave. Tell her about our history and customs. Whisper the names of the leaders to her as they approach her. Just, make sure tonight goes well. If you succeed, I’ll double what they’re paying you now.”
Talia’s eyebrows lifted at the prospect of money.
“What if she doesn’t let me in?” Talia challenged.
“Your work will have to speak for itself. If tonight goes well, stay with her for the next few days and look out for her. Someone is keeping her entourage at bay. She has no allies here. I’m trying to give her one.”
Talia leaned back and looked thoughtful.
“Why so interested in this princess?” Talia said suggestively. Djac rolled his eyes.
“I need these negotiations to go well, Talia. We all do.” He said seriously, giving her a dark look. Talia looked down at her hands. She had once been the handmaiden to a great lady, but had fallen on hard times in the past few years. He knew the prospect of double her sum would be appealing.
“If I do this for you, you will owe me a favor. A big one.” Djac nodded slowly. “And you’ll have to clear it with the head cook. She’s got a nasty temper, so I’d give her your best smile if you can manage it.” Talia got up from her spot and went over to a water basin to wash her hands. Djac smiled.
“I’ll take care of it. The princess’ room is on the third floor, East wing.” he said, moving in toward the kitchen. “Oh and Talia,” he looked back at her, “Don’t tell the princess I sent you. If she asks, you work for Kasim.”
Talia looked skeptical but gave something between a nod and a bow and went about her work.

 

[_Annalise_]

A servant led the way before her, and though Ann had a thousand questions she wanted to ask to sate her curiosity, she remained mute, concentrating solely on putting one foot in front of the other. The formal greet had finally ended just moments before and she couldn’t remember ever feeling this exhausted after one. Or was this the feeling of defeat? She bristled, her hands clenching into fists beside her. No. No, it wasn’t over. Not yet anyway.

A door before her was opened and she stepped through, inclining her head in thanks before she was left alone. Gods she was exhausted. Perhaps she would have time for a short nap? A hand reached up to rub the back of her neck as she turned around, surveying the room she had been assigned. Her trunks! A happy gasp left her throat. “Iris? Turisas?” Steps hurried through the adjoining rooms, searching for the two that typically stayed by her side, but as nothing but silence answered her and feeling momentarily crestfallen, her gaze fell on her trunks again, one of which was open. ‘How curious.’ A heaviness was felt in her chest as she walked over, opening the lid and spotting a letter, the seal obviously broken. “Doesn’t seem as though anyone is worried about going through my things…” Annoyance rushed through her as she picked it up, but the emotion passed as she read it’s contents.

Dearest Princess,

May the sea guide you and carry you home.

Forever your servant,

Rami

Fingers curled against the parchment, and she clutched it to her chest before whirling and making her way to the balcony, flinging the doors wide as eyes strained towards the sea. Where were they? She should be able to see The Siren’s masts even from this distance. Ann tried to talk herself through the panic. “Perhaps they simply moved, perhaps they…” The words seemed to choke in her throat as she scanned what she could of the port, but nothing even remotely familiar stood out to her.

Backing up until she was once more inside, pale features turned to the trunk again. “There has to be something else! You cannot just send me this and nothing more, Ramos.”

But minutes letter, empty handed except for the original letter, Ann gave in to the trembling of her legs and sat right where she stood, the yards of navy fanning around her. She scanned the letter repeatedly, reading again the haunting words that Crethean family members said to their soldiers before they went off to war. Should the soldier live, the sea would bring them home triumphant. But should they die, to the sea, would they return. Where the scribbled words wouldn’t mean anything to someone other than a water element, to her the message was clear. She needed to watch her back.

A knock on the door startled her out of her reverie. ‘Enter.’ Her voice was still strong, thank the gods, and she couldn’t help the damnable flair of hope that rose within her, but Ann felt it die away as the face that entered was that of a strangers.

A woman stepped through and though Ann thought she saw a flicker of surprise cross her face at the current state of the princess, it was gone in a flash as she lowered her head. Gathering her remaining resolve around her, she stood slowly, blue eyes piercing. “Yes?”

“Good evening, your highness. I have been appointed to assist you with any needs that you have.”

Ann couldn’t help but to be suspicious. “I see. May I ask who sent you?”

The woman finally looked up. “My lord, Kasim, sends his regards.”

Silence stretched between them for a few moments. Kasim. Of the IshFahar clan, if she remembered correctly. He and his brothers had been quite the charismatic lot this morning. If she hadn’t been so weary at that point, she may have even enjoyed their banter with her. They had been brothers to the man, Djac, who had saved her from disgrace. Of course now, she wondered about his actions and the motive behind them. Something about him not meeting her gaze earlier was still bothering her. And why would they think to send her help? Ann’s brows furrowed. Did she have any choice but to chance it? One of them had pulled her from the edge once. The worst that could happen was that she would fail. Again. At least by accepting, there was a slight chance that she would get something of use to help her. Right? Her golden head dipped in slow acquiescence.

That was all it seemed to take before the woman was set into action, murmuring something about them not having much time. The next hour, or hours, she was beginning to lose track of time, passed in a blur. Measurements, bath, lectures of etiquette. Lotions, words of proper greetings. Hair, names of clans. It all was whirling round and around Ann’s head until fingers rubbed an ache at her temples. “Talia, I beg of you. I cannot remember another name! Is it acceptable for you to go with me?” She cracked open an eye and saw the women give a faint smile and nod. It was hard not to like her. She had been nothing but helpful and informative since she had entered Ann’s borrowed rooms. A slave driver, yes, but helpful nonetheless.

Cautious eyes were drawn to the looking glass as Talia stepped back, and lips drew into a startled ‘Oh!’ This wasn’t her. Was it? Hands lifted to touch golden curls that were allowed to fall down her back in all of their wild glory instead of twisted and pinned severely to her head. It had instead been brushed back gently and held in place by a long veil that was pinned to the crown of her head. Gone also, was the uncomfortably hot gown, replaced by lighter attire that was more suited to the region and it’s unfamiliar climate. A long, loosely belted, cream tunic and trousers trimmed with gold lay beneath a light overdress of vivid blue that Talia had somehow managed to find that matched the hue of Ann’s eyes. Eyes of which were now traced with the faintest bit of kohl.

“It suits you.”

She blinked at the words. The unattainable coolness of her prior appearance had been replaced by something warmer and maybe a little more rebellious. She wasn’t sure if that was a good thing, or a bad one.

A knock on the door signaled an end to their ‘training’ though, and with a reassuring nod from her borrowed lady’s maid, Ann found herself once again following a servant down the halls to the cavernous rooms where the ruling family entertained and dined. This time, she was ready when the doors opened. This time, she ignored the curious stares of the occupants. Mostly. Folding her hands together in front of her, she kept her head humbly inclined, waiting until the Sheik noticed her before making her way forward. As his hand extended, she bent her knees, fingers lifting to bring his own digits to her head then lips. Typical of the formal greeting given by a woman here. His words, though she had to strain to hear them, gave her form relief to straighten, and she thought she saw a hint of appreciation pass his gaze. Alright, that was surely better than last time. Her lips curved into a quiet smile that was offered to him in return. Let the games continue.

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac frittered his time away in the streets of the city for much of the afternoon. With nothing better to do than to give Annalise space, he had to find a way to occupy his time other than imagining if things were going well with Talia. He trusted Talia. She had a good heart. Yet, it was hard to feel confident that she could smooth over tensions between two realms that had been at odds for centuries with a new outfit and adapted mannerisms.
Time passed slowly, but eventually Djac made his way back to the palace. He had intentionally waited until the feast had started before making an appearance. He had never cared much for social gatherings such as these, where the leaders compared how many men they killed or how many concubines they had. It was all a farce to see who was the strongest, in the hopes that the Sheik would name one of them his successor.
The Sheik had the option to name his successor instead of passing it to his son. Not that it happened often, but their current Sheik’s son had died in battle many years ago, and it was as though clinging to power would somehow bring him back.
Djac didn’t bother changing, and he had already bathed once that day. He may not have had on the appropriate attire, but he cared little for pageantry, and he thought it might annoy his brothers that he didn’t try harder to impress the princess. Part of him truly didn’t want to impress her, other than on the grounds of a diplomat who represented goods, trade routes, allied military forces, and water healing properties that his people sorely needed.
Djac heard talking and laughter before he entered the gardens where the feast was being held. The festivities were already well on their way when Djac entered. He wasted no time in approaching the Sheik to kiss his ring, before scouring the room to find his brothers. Plotting quietly in a corner with Ibn and Havec, Djac swiped a goblet from a passing servant’s tray and joined them.
“Where have you been?” Kasim asked, but with a refreshing lack of animosity. Djac shrugged, taking a sip of the seasoned wine.
“So? What do you think of the newly improved diplomat?” Haresh asked him with a nudge of the elbow, his attitude evidently boosted since their last encounter.
“What do you mean?” Djac asked. “She’s not here yet.”
“Yes she is. You must have missed her.” Kasim said, lifting a finger from his own goblet to casually signal toward the cherry blossom tree.
Djac glanced over in that direction, before doing a slight double take at the blonde beauty listening intently to Abdul of Bandev. She looked utterly transformed. He had seen women of his own country look less natural in their settings than she did. Her pale skin glowed in the light of the tiki torches. The color of her hair pairing beautifully with the light blue of her outfit. The backdrop of the variously colored plants of the gardens made her look like a painting. Djac blinked rapidly to make sure he was looking at the same woman, before noticing Talia at her side, a gossamer veil draped across her face just below her eyes.
Djac turned back to his brothers, doing his best to appear unimpressed. “She looks the same to me.” He lifted the goblet to his lips, taking a rather large gulp.
“Oh come one!” Haresh scoffed, turning his attention back to the princess and putting his arm around Djac’s shoulders. “I’ve seen you lust after some of the plainest women in IshFahar! Look me in the eye and tell me she doesn’t make you want to rise to the occasion!” Haresh laughed, blasting Djac with a breath that reeked of alcohol. Djac shoved him off of him, loud enough to make a few people around them stop and look. Haresh stumbled backward, taking a moment to regain his balance. Djac looked to the princess whose own attention had been drawn to the slightly dramatic scene. Djac did his best to quickly wipe the look of anger from his face, but not before he caught Annalise’s eye. The two looked at each other for a brief moment before Djac tore his eyes away.
“Djac, what’s wrong?” Kasim put his hand on Djac’s shoulder, genuine concern etched into his features. Djac moved his brother’s hand away, about to tell Kasim he was going to retire early when the two large doors swung open, dozens of servants pouring out, each carrying a large tray of steaming food. The servants made their way to various places around the garden to stand; the smell of the feast immediately filled the space with the enticing aroma of spiced chicken, roasted lamb, glazed rice, and pita with fresh hummus. The Sheik stood for the blessing, silencing everyone.
“My children.” He announced, the strongest his voice had been all day. “Tonight, we give thanks to the gods for this bountiful food. And we also give thanks, for our honored guest here tonight.” He motioned over to the princess who appropriately averted her eyes in humbleness. Djac couldn’t help but be pleased that she was taking Talia’s advice on etiquette. “Now,” he continued, “I invite you to cleanse your hands for the breaking of bread.” With a huge sweeping motion, the Sheik conjured a large ball of fire that sparked to life a few feet in front of him. It blazed hotly before settling softly in the air and burning a bright azure. Hovering about four feet above the ground, it waited for the hands of the clan leaders. One by one they stepped up to the floating flame and surrendered their hands to it, burning off all impurities.
Djac followed Kasim up to it and cleaned his hands, then stepped back for the next clan leader. When finally everyone had participated, Djac expected the Sheik to ask everyone to dig in when a voice cried, “Wait!” It was Rameses, of Al Cara, a twisted smirk on his face. “What about our honored guest? She too should purify her hands if she is to partake in the food with us.” he stated. There were nods of agreement from several of the leaders, all looking to the princess in anticipation. Annalise looked around, a slight bafflement in her eyes.
“My lords will forgive me.” She said humbly, “I cannot touch the flames without being burned.” Her words were temperate, but her expression said she was that of disbelief.
“Surely, there is one here who could perform transference?” Rameses exclaimed looking around at the crowd with his malicious smile. Djac closed his eyes in disbelief. Rameses, the viper. Transference was among the most difficult and rare of abilities in the fire realm. To touch someone and make them immune to the flame was very complex, and hardly ever successful. Rameses likely called on it now so someone would accidentally burn the unsuspecting princess to the point of great pain. Perhaps even so she could not join negotiations the following day.
“I’m sure a basin of water will suffice!” Talia spoke up, likely on behalf of Annalise. Rameses gave Talia a murderous look, effectively silencing her.
“Water is not nearly as effective at cleansing as fire, wouldn’t you agree, your excellency?” Rameses looked to the Sheik. The Sheik looked confused, as if he had not been following the conversation. The old man’s head nodded in agreement, likely out of a desire to appear diplomatic.
“Then, it is settled! Who will perform the transference?” Rameses asked. There was a long silence where everyone looked at each other, not wanting to be responsible for the mutilation of the princess’ hands. Annalise drew in a breath to say something but was cut off.
“Djac will do it!” Kasim announced. Djac’s eyes darted to his brother, widening in shock. Kasim returned his stare with a firm gaze as if to say, ‘You will do this’.
“I’ll burn her.” Djac whispered through gritted teeth.
“Not if you concentrate hard enough.” Kasim whispered back. “You’re the most talented fire element I know, I’ve seen you do this before, now get up there.”
“Yes, once, on a cat, and I was eleven and had no idea of the power I was wielding!” Djac whispered back.
“The cat survived, didn’t it?” Kasim said back, lifting his eyebrows.
“And lost half of its fur!” Djac spat.
“The princess doesn’t have fur to lose!” Kasim finished, pushing Djac firmly toward Annalise.
Djac’s heart beat rapidly as he walked toward her very slowly. Praying to every god whose name he could remember, trying to appear confident for her sake. When he was close enough, he looked into her cool eyes. Her chest was rising and falling rapidly, but her face was stoic. Djac awkwardly lifted his hand and held it out for her to take.
“You do know what you’re doing?” She whispered so only he could hear. Djac only looked back at her in silence. Her stoicism broke slightly, but she placed her hands gently in his, slightly trembling as she did so.
“I need you to remain very still, and let your hands move with mine.” He said deeply.
He closed his eyes and took in a long breath. He summoned fire to his palms, concentrating on maneuvering the flames around her soft skin. The fire engulfed their hands, the tepid yet smooth feeling of the flames licking the surfaces. He moved his hands over hers slowly, delicately tracing the outline of her bones, her wrists, sliding his fingers through hers, all while bidding the fire not to harm her. Reining in its destructive properties, and only allowing its purifying nature to prevail.
He opened his eyes to look at their hands, totally encompassed in green flame. He stared into it, mesmerized. For a brief moment, it was as if the fire stared back at him, the two of them sharing an intensely inmate bond. Djac had never felt more in control over fire than he did in that moment.
He commanded the fire to retreat, and it willingly obeyed, pulling the heat into himself. He made sure it was completely extinguished before letting go of the princess’ hands. His heart thundered in his chest, and he suddenly felt reluctant to look at her. He backed away slowly, not wanting to look into her eyes again.
There was an outbreak of applause, everyone seemingly impressed by Djac’s capabilities.
“Let the feast begin!” announced the Sheik, and everyone flocked to the servants’ trays.

 

[_Annalise_]

She wanted to thank him, or at least say something. But he had backed away and his form had disappeared when the command to eat was called, the leaders swarming around them.

“Coward.” Fingers rubbed over her wrists absently. “Could you enlighten me on what that just was?” She whispered to Talia as she felt the woman’s presence behind her.

“The transference?” There was awe in that voice. “I have never seen it done before, myself.”

A sick feeling was forming in the pit of her belly and she glanced behind her. “…But it is common, yes? There was no danger…”

At Talia’s widened gaze, Ann felt the truth hit her as though she had been slapped. “WHAT?!”

“Shhh!” Talia grabbed her arm as Ann’s outraged outburst drew the attention of several nearby. “There was no other choice. He had to do it. You would have been cast out immediately.”

The princess was incredulous, and she fought the temper that was rising in her. She wasn’t an idiot, that little display had nothing to do with ‘cleansing’ and everything to do with wanting to see her squirm. But this…this was to much! “How badly could that have gone, Talia?” Her whisper was furious.

Talia merely lowered her eyes. “Djac is the strongest I know…he wouldn’t have allowed that to happen. I am sure of it.”

“Oh, by all the gods…” Clenching her teeth, her grip tightened on her wrist. Across the room she caught sight of the man in question again, and her eyes narrowed. He himself seemed to be in heated discussion with his brothers, if body language was any indicator. “I don’t think he cares for me much. I am quite sure it wouldn’t have bothered him either way.”

“Djac?”

Her head nodded towards him, silently confirming. The man could barely stand to make eye contact with her!

“Oh. Do not mind that. Odd behavior is typical of him.” Talia led her to a pile of rich colored pillows and assisted Ann to sit. “If anyone wishes to speak, they will come to you. I will get you some food and drink.”

Ann nodded absently, trying to work through the irritation she felt. “Simple for you to say. You weren’t about to be burned.” But Talia had already walked off, and Ann was left alone with her musings. This… this show of power was getting them nowhere! She should be going out and meeting the people, seeing their needs, their wants. She wanted to know how they felt about their leaders. Sitting here like a pretty possession, paraded about only when the men wanted amusing was enough to make her ill. She felt like a bloody puppet on a string. And apparently a disposable one at that!

The water realms were by no means a matriarchal society, but the females were the ones that held the most abilities when it came to connecting with water. Emotions fueled their power, and Ann was no exception. Because of her internal battle, an odd chill was beginning to hang heavy in the humid air, frost creeping up the fountains that cheerfully bubbled on the outskirts of the gathering area, though it went wholly unnoticed to the group of men that were growing more drunk by the second. She needed to ground herself again or this place was going to end up covered in ice.

Drawing in a deep breath, Ann closed her eyes, concentrating on calmness. In the end though, she was too well trained to simply leave. No matter that, where on earth would she go? The Siren wasn’t at port, and there was no telling when she would be back. She was stranded. Food that Talia had brought and sat beside her remained untouched as group after group approached to speak to her. Or sate their curiosity for the time being. But with her new companions’ guidance, she cajoled and petted, laughing at all the right spots and withholding any opinions that she might possibly have. Ann hated every second of it, and as time passed, almost begged of Talia to give her some excuse to leave. The woman merely nudged her, though, and nodded to let her know someone else approached. Wonderful. Inwardly sighing in resignation, fingers curled around the goblet she held, bringing it to her lips to take a long drink as eyes lifted. And almost started choking. It was him. Well. Not just him, he was surrounded by his brothers, but he didn’t look particularly happy.

Waiting until they spoke their greetings, Ann smiled brightly. Almost too brightly. “My lords.” She nodded to all of them. Kasim grinned at her…oddly…and he along with Haresh and Havic set on the pillows before her, leaving the one beside her open. She saw Kasim glance pointedly at Djac and lifted a brow. There was something going on with all of them, and she was going to get to the bottom of it.

As Djac to his seat, albeit reluctantly it seemed, Ann remained looking stubbornly ahead. “My lords, won’t you tell me of your home? Of your clan?” She smiled, a dimple flashing with practiced charm and blue eyes danced as she leaned forward. It was only her hands linked around the goblet stem, that showed possible stress, holding so tight that the fingers were white.

Beyond them, there seemed to be a rumble through the crowd, but Ann ignored it, intent upon the conversation before her, until a single phrase made her stiffen. “Let us have a song!” Her gaze sharpened as there were several voices of agreement.

“Yes, let us have some entertainment.”

“A song! A song!”

Before their little group, Lord Sinbad appeared, and the reek of alcohol made it very apparent that he was probably not in his right mind.

“Your highness!“ His voice slurred.

“My lord, Sinbad. “ By sheer force of will, did she address him, as protocol, offering a faint smile.

“I heard your kind are quite the entertainers.”

Ann blinked. “My. Kind... Entertainers.” She repeated his words slowly. Surely he wasn’t about to ask...

“Yes! You know, with the singing. Why do you not sing us all a little song?”

He didn’t realize how insulting his request was. Ann felt her cheeks redden, her body frozen.

A water elementals voice was their very essence. It took great strength to weave the power of a song. Once, they had been free with the use of their gifts. But some, fearing their power was being used to gain power, began hunting them down. It wasn’t long after that the ancient realm split into four.

Her gaze moved past the man in front of her and landed on Djac, who was surprisingly staring back. His inner thoughts remained hidden, though there was now an intensity to them that told her he was working something out in his head. She doubted he would be able to help this time.

Indeed, the sheiks face sealed it as her eyes moved on to his. He even looked mildly happy about the suggestion. And as well he should since her people’s songs were typically reserved for sacred events and amongst their own kind, when tradition called for it.

“If it would please my lords, then of course.” Swallowing, she inclined her head to him and slowly stood, making her way to the middle of the room. It would have to be their lullaby. The other songs were too strong and she wasn’t sure she could temper the power weaved throughout them in her current emotional state. Collecting herself, her hands clenched and released at her side.

Closing her eyes, she pulled power to her and drew it in with a breath. As lips parted, all other sounds seemed to die away, her lilting voice filling the air. The language of the song wasn’t used anymore, but it pulled on feelings of nostalgia and home. Blue eyes opened as she felt herself take grasp of the familiarity of it and her voice seemed to echo around them, haunting, foreign. The song spoke of the beginning, the union of the elementals before the fall. The ancient power weaved within it’s words were simple ones, used to alleviate children’s fears and sadness and fill them with hope and promise.

Waters within the four massive fountains that flanked each corner stopped, hanging suspended for a moment before droplets swirled, forming outlines of the people and creatures in her song. Water horses galloped around the guests, bursting into trees whose canopies flared over their heads. And around them visions of their ancestors appeared, laughing around fires and reminding them that they were all still connected.

The song ended as softly as it had began, her voice fading into silence. The watery figures evaporated and the fountains started up again, accompanied by all the typical sounds of the event.

As she expected, there were no words or claps, the song wasn’t intended for any after all. Bowing deeply to the sheik, she made her way out of the circle. She needed space, she just needed a moment to herself, and now seemed as good a time as any, since most of them would now be high upon emotion as the song had been created for. Finding an alcove a bit away, she brought her knuckles to her mouth and bit down, muffling a scream full of the days frustrations and the toil of holding back her power for all within. If her father ever found out what she just did.... A sound behind her had her whirling, coming face to face with Djac. And where he was, she was sure his brothers couldn’t be far behind.

Feeling disgruntled, she narrowed her eyes and without even waiting to see why he was there, a fury of words left her lips. “I shall not apologize. They don’t even realize what I was just asked to do!” She began to pace, fingertips touching her forward. The words were more for herself now than for him. “This was a mistake. I need to get back home.” Behind her, snow flurries danced over the ground. As far as she was concerned, this diplomatic venture was over.

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac didn’t bother going toward the food trays. He might have been hungry, he couldn’t really tell. He was too distracted by the feeling of being so at one with that green fire; a feeling that bordered on obsessive. He could not account for why it had been so easy to perform the transference. He had always known that he was gifted, but it was possible that his power was growing beyond what he realized.
“Well done.” His brother’s voice pulled him from his thoughts. “Not only have you impressed the princess, I think you’ve managed to catch the Sheik’s eye too.” Kasim smiled proudly. “After tonight, I think he’ll see us as the clan to be watching.”
Djac scoffed, the two of them having joined the others as he talked. “As if impressing the Sheik is of any real value! Your hope is that this Congregation will overthrow him, isn’t that right?”
“Keep your voice down!” Havec spat, looking around them.
“I’m growing more than a little weary of being kept in the dark here, Kasim. What were you thinking? I could have disable that girl for the rest of her life!” Djac hissed. “What purpose does this serve? Do you want her help or not?”
“Maybe I believe in you a little more than you do. Have you ever thought of that?” Kasim said smoothly. Djac was about to retort, but he was taken aback by Kasim’s sincerity. Since they departed IshFahar, Kasim had been more attentive, more complimentary to Djac than he had been his entire life. Ever since Djac could walk he had wanted to impress his older brother. It was an odd feeling to get the recognition he had always craved.
The members of his party went to get their food. Djac stood in the corner, taking demure sips of his wine, gazing at his palm, still feeling the princess’ touch and the captivating fire that poured over them. Kasim discussed with the others when a strategic time would be to approach the princess for conversation. Djac’s attention drifted in and out until all of a sudden he was expected to walk with them to where the princess and her maid were lounging.
She looked tired, though she made a good show of being the amenable diplomat. Djac sat beside her, rolling his eyes at his brothers for being so obvious in their choice of seats. He was interested to see how lighthearted they could keep the conversation given that Djac nearly took Annalise’s hands off.
“Let us have a song!” someone called out. Djac turned his attention to the crowd who started urging the princess to entertain them. He looked back at her, sure she would be offended at such a request. He didn’t think his assessment was far off, as there was the tiniest hint of pain in her eyes. Surprisingly, she looked at him before agreeing to the request. In that brief moment, he felt pity for her. He felt like he understood how degrading of a demand it was, and wished he could do something as she stood to appease them.
She positioned herself strategically in the middle of the garden for all to hear properly.
Then she sang.
The sound washed over him exactly as if he had jumped into a cool lake. His ears could not drink in enough of the sound, almost beckoning him to move closer to her so he wouldn’t miss a single note. More than that, his eyes felt opened for the first time. Colors were more vivid. The fire of the torches, more lustrous. The sky itself seemed to open and the stars shimmered in wise opulence. Then the water started dancing, composing pictures before them that felt like you could glimpse ancience.
The singer herself had taken on an air of etherealism that surpassed the seraphims of the gods. She glowed like moonlight. All of her features were so beautiful it made him want to cry. He stood, needing to be near her. Needing to be with her. Then the song ended. It felt like a loved one had died when it stopped, and Djac couldn’t seem to breath in.
Still, she glistened in a haze of enticing light, even as she walked from the gardens in silence. He found his breath and immediately followed her. Followed the angel.
He finally caught up with her, finding her pacing in the dim light of a hallway. His knees nearly gave out when she looked at him.
“I shall not apologize. They don’t even realize what I was just asked to do!” her speaking voice was like sandpaper to him now, yet still the light she emanated beckoned him closer. “This was a mistake. I need to get back home.” she whispered. Suddenly, the thought of her leaving was too much for his heart to take. He could never let her leave. She could not leave him!
He rushed forward and took her face in his hands, his fingers weaving into her hair. Her skin was cold to the touch. Her face looked stunned, horrified even, but he was going to kiss her, he had to kiss her, she was… her lips… her eyes… But her glow was growing dimmer... She seemed more… natural.
Djac shook his head, his thoughts becoming clearer like coming out of a half sleep. He sucked in a breath when he realized he was still holding the princess in his hands.
Appalled at himself, he yanked away as if he’d seen a ghost. Embarrassment flooded to his cheeks, and he was grateful for the shadows of the hallway.
“Forgive me… I… I don’t know what came over…”
“Sometimes it has this effect.” She said softly. She still looked tense, but she had sympathy in her eyes. Understanding.
Djac was at a loss for words when he heard his brother call his name from around the corner. Annalise gave a sigh of disappointment. Without thinking, Djac took Annalise’s hand and pulled her into where the shadow was greatest of their little corner.
“What are you doing?” She whispered, still a little on edge at his touch.
“Shh! Just trust me.” He said, feeling his muscles relax as he melded the two of them into shadow. He looked to his right to where Annalise had been just a second ago, and saw nothing. He sighed quietly in relief, just in time too, as Kasim rounded the corner and saw an empty space where the two of them stood.
‘Should have brought a torch with you, brother. You should know better.’ Djac smirked to himself. As Kasim moved down the hall to continue his search, Djac subtly stepped out of the shadows, bringing the princess with him. When she was safely back in the light, he let go of her hand.
“I’m sorry.” He said, looking at her hand. Again he felt he shouldn’t look in her eyes, as if the events of the past day somehow made him unworthy. There was a moment of silence, and Djac thought she would leave to go back to the feast.
“Thank you.” She said instead. “For everything today.” A longer pause.
“You’re, um, You’re welcome.” He stumbled over his words. “I’m sorry if it didn’t go how you had planned.” He grasped at something to say. She let out a small laugh. Another silence.
“Tomorrow is supposed to be the most important day of my career, and I know almost nothing about this realm. Apart from some etiquette, and the names of Lords.” She looked sad, an expression of disappointment flashing over her face. Djac suddenly felt a chill as he realized he was getting cold. Then an idea came.
“Would you…” He began, surprised at his own audacity. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but would you permit me to show you some of the city? I know you said you wanted to leave, but perhaps you would feel more at home if you could really see where you are.”
She considered it, clearly thinking ahead in her schedule. “I don’t know how long negotiations will take tomorrow, and I am not sure–”
“No,” Djac interrupted, and took a subconscious step closer to her, “I mean now.”

 

[_Annalise_]

“Now?” Wide eyes blinked, feeling like an idiot. She was obviously flustered as he stepped forward, but stubbornly stood her ground. It sounded like a challenge. Was it? Ann felt a thrill rush through her at the thought of getting off the palace grounds for a little while and then promptly shook her head. No. Absolutely not. Her mouth opened in denial. She couldn’t go with him. Tonight. Without an escort of all things…. Could she? It wasn’t as though she hadn’t broken rules already. Nor did she have anyone to report too. The worst that could happen is when…or if…the Siren came to collect her, someone would let Duke Oliver know what she had done. He may very well tell her father, but Ramos would just laugh at her. And Iris… Ann cringed inwardly. Iris would probably have an apoplexy and be bed ridden for a month.

Still…. She looked up and found him watching her with raised brows. Was this not what she had wanted? And he was offering. Just a quick trip. It wouldn’t hurt anything…surely… Brightening in sudden excitement, she nodded forcefully. “Yes. Yes, let us see this city of yours.” Her hands clapped together before she remembered her manners and let out a small gasp. “Oh. Please, may we, that is.”

Ann watched as a faint grin crossed his lips in what she suspected was amusement at her obvious enthusiasm.

“Aright.” He made to move, but paused again, narrowing his eyes on her thoughtfully.

“What is it?”

“We need to make a quick stop first. Come.” Probably to ensure she didn’t misstep in the darkness, he took up her hand again and began pulling her in the direction of the North grounds, towards the stables.

She was helpless to do anything except trot after him, pausing when he paused, and trying not to forget to breath as more than once, he tugged her into the shadows to avoid being seen. “You seem very good at this…sneaking…” A single brow was raised as she spoke her observation dryly. A quiet bark of laughter was his only answer though.

Entering the dimly lit stables, he opened an empty stall door and gently pushed her inside. “Wait here.” He made to move away before turning back to add, “And be quiet.” Then closed the door and disappeared.

Ann wrinkled her nose in consternation. As if she couldn’t be quiet. He needed to mind his own manners! Still, it seemed ages before the door opened, and she had twice almost given up before she spotted his dark eyes again. “Where have you…!”

“Shhh, put these on.”

A bundle was tossed to her and the door promptly shut again. Curious, she began pulling the items out of the bag. Another long tunic and trouser, this time in earth hued colors along with a veil made of cotton instead of the translucent silk from before. As quickly as she could, she peeled off the ornate garments she wore, carefully placing them inside the bag, before donning the new garments and opening the door. “Should I ask where you got these?” Hands smoothed down the tunic as he took the bundle from her hands.

He shook his head with a smirk. “Probably not.”

Ann resisted the urge to roll her eyes at him, and fumbled at putting on the veil. “You say that rather cheerfully, you know.” Her hands stilled as she heard him sigh and stepped closer to adjust the veil himself, winding it over her head and about her shoulders, showing her that she could pull part of the fabric up to cover the lower part of her face when needed. He leaned down to peer at her face intently until she nodded her understanding of it.

Avoiding the guards would be a little trickier, she thought as they approached the front entrance. One would think they would have eased their post as the night grew longer, but they seemed just as alert before. She crouched alongside Djac, who was watching them thoughtfully. Furrowing her brow, she peered at him, then the guards, and back again. “What are we waiting on?”

“I’m thinking.”

Her tone was flat, but her eyes danced with amusement. “Don’t tell me you did not have a plan for this.”

“It was a little spur of the moment.”

Ann covered her mouth to stifle a snicker and his eyes promptly narrowed. “Fine, fine.” Hands lifted in defense before she rose. “I shall take care of this. Make sure you try not to listen.” She rose, dancing past his hands as he tried to stop her, whispering her title furiously.” But ignore him she did, striding purposefully towards the guards. This would be a little trickier without song or being near ancient waters, but it was doable. In small doses.

The guards caught sight of her and frowned, one of them stepping up to stop her. “You cannot…”

She smiled, her eyes catching his and holding the gaze. “Weary soldiers…” Suddenly, her voice was a thousand whispers, winding around them like a cat begging for its masters attention. Both guards stiffened in surprise. “loyal men…” Delicate features were gentle, her tone beckoning to them, promising. “Are you not tired?” Slack faced and silent, they could only nod. “Will you not rest?....Just for a moment….Come with me…”

Fingers brushed across their shoulders, urging them to walk with her to the wall. “Sit…you deserve it. You deserve rest and praise for all you have done…sit…rest your weary eyes…” Lilting vocals lifted and dimmed in a heady cadence that had their bodies growing heavy, and sliding down the wall at the same time. Bending her knees, she knelt between them, her fingertips now dancing across their faces, closing their eyes. “shhh…sleep. Just for a few moments…just sleep…” Her voice faded as their breaths became deep and even, soft snores escaping from the prone bodies.

Satisfied, she rose. Ann knew she would pay for this tomorrow, this irresponsible use of power without being grounded to anything that would assist in replacing her strength. But for now…for now…she would enjoy this. Rubbing her hands together, she whirled to find Djac again.

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac walked out from behind his hiding place, just as the first guard let out his first snore. Slack jawed and wide eyed he stared at the princess who turned to face him with a mischievous little grin.
“Remind me never to piss you off.” Djac looked at the guards, genuinely impressed. Annalise’s smile grew for a brief moment before she composed herself.
“So, where are you taking me?” She turned toward the gate. Djac smiled himself, his respect for this princess growing.
They walked through the gates and into the streets. The district did not really sleep, having such control over the element that gave them light, the business of the day usually went on well into the night. The vendors still calling to the two of them as they passed, carts passing through the streets loaded with goods, camels grunting as their owners groomed them. Several of the pedestrians held a small globe of fire in their palm to light their way, taking no notice of Djac and the princess. They passed singers chanting ballads in the ancient language, musicians plucking their instruments in the hopes of enticing the passerby into their taverns.
“Did you ever actually eat anything at that feast?” Djac asked close to her ear over the din. She bit her lip with an embarrassed look. He chuckled, “Neither did I.” He approached a pedler whose stand carried an assortment of foods. Ordering grilled halloumi, beef kofta, and curried rice, and handed Annalise the paper cups of food.
“You haven’t given me any cutlery.” As soon as she said so, Djac ate his first bite using his hand. The princess looked embarrassed that she had asked, and proceeded to lift the halloumi to her lips.
“Wait!” Djac urged. She stopped dead, looking at him in surprise. “Your hands are probably unclean! Allow me!” Djac snapped and a tall bright flame sparked hot on his thumb waving it closer and closer to the princess.
She rolled her eyes and flicked his wrist out of her face. Djac laughed, taking another bite of his kofta. “I can’t believe his impudence.” Djac shook his head and they continued walking down the street. Annalise was quiet for a while as she chewed.
“Why do you all stand for it? Even in the time I have spent with the leaders today I can see which clans really hold the power.” She said.
Djac shrugged. “It’s come from years of corrupt politics and sheer force of will. We used to be an oligarchy, our clerics would report to the Sheik who held something of an honorary position. The Sheik would be the one that called them together for the Congregation. But, about two hundred years ago, Akbar the Great called A Congregation of the clerics and slaughtered them all, naming the noble families of the territories the new leaders of the clans. The new clerics were still meant to advise the family leaders, and to give the people spiritual advice, but their power was significantly deteriorated. Now, the heads of the clans have as much power as they want. Throughout history, clans have even taken over other clans, depending on their military strength. That’s why Rameses thinks he can do whatever he likes. He’s not afraid to break the rules, and everyone fears his sword.” Djac shook his head in contempt.
“So, how is anything decided in the Congregation?” Annalise said, completely engrossed.
“The Congregation itself decides very little for the realm as a whole. For the most part, the clan leaders decide what’s best for their clans. But…” He looked at the princess skeptically, wondering how much he should tell her. “But, there’s been so much tension between the clans of late, trade has been more difficult. Our economy has been dwindling. Our Sheik has done very little to ease disagreements and fix the problems we’ve faced.”
“What problems do you face?” She asked. Djac was moved by the kindness in her voice. He went on to explain the complexities of their economy, how a few failed marriage alliances increase the tensions between at least half of the clans, how radical groups of fire purists in the south were beginning to frighten the people into hoarding their goods, how eventually, hunger became rampant, and how slavery was being exploited for cheap labor and fast production. The princess said nothing in response to these reports, but graciously listened as Djac droned on. After a while, he felt he’d said enough.
Even as they walked deeper into the slums of the city, the quality of life became evidently degraded. There was less fire lighting their path. The music had ceased. The vendors had closed their doors, and the people seemed quieter. The two walked in silence for a while as the princess seemed to take in her surroundings. They made their way up a soft incline, as Djac subtly guided them toward a summit. It was a cliff on a road that led out of the city, but it afforded a spectacular view.
It was completely deserted by the time they reached it, and the silence between them had grown comfortable. The city below them was quiet, but for a few drums and sounds of talking in the far distance. Strikingly, the palace and its immediate surroundings were bright and lively, while the rest of the city lay in darkness; painting a picture of only a fraction of the people living in luxury, while the rest were forgotten. Beyond, was the vast ocean, stretching in all directions, glistening under the moonlight.
“I have a view of the sea right outside my window at home.” Annalise finally broke the silence. “Nearly every morning I would go out on my balcony, stare at the water and say a small prayer to the gods. You would think that after all this time, I would have gotten used to seeing her… but she still takes my breath away.”
Djac looked at her as she stared admiringly at the ocean and he smiled to himself. Then, he had a sinking feeling. Thousands of lives were in her hands. His home could lay in ruin in a few decades if she were to fail. And yet, somehow, some way, he was supposed to use her?
He looked to the far off palace where his brothers were, knowing that they likely expected him to be wooing Annalise at that very moment, and realizing with horror, that that’s exactly what he was doing.

 

[_Annalise_]

She found Djac to be a rather agreeable companion. He didn’t push her for conversation, or seem interested in using her talents for amusements or gains. There was a contentment in the silence, just as verbal sparing with him had been just as natural. Ann mulled over the information he had just given her, and let her gaze roam over the city. She could tell that the poverty was spreading, much like a disease, and if there wasn’t a solution soon, the fire realm could very well find itself on the verge of extinction.

Delicate brows furrowed and she lowered herself to a crouch, her hands dropping to burrow within the earth, concentrating on what lie below. Water was there, not much of it, but it was there, and dwindling more and more as the years passed. It sparked at her touch, rumbling in all it’s ancient glory beneath the ground. Ann stroked at it, gently, and it’s memories floated eagerly up to her like a child holding it’s hand out to their mother. She listened quietly to what it needed to tell her and rose again, brushing her hands across the folds of the borrowed tunic.

The story was all the same. In every realm, the elements were dimming. They hadn’t been created to be separated, but their caretakers had become greedy and suspicious, only concerned with themselves and growing their empires. This one just seemed to be deteriorating faster than the others. She glanced to Djac who was staring back at her, probably wondering why she had been playing in the dirt, and attempted a reassuring smile. How would she be able to look him in the eye if she failed? Especially now, after sharing what he did. In the couple of hours she had been with him, she had found out more of this realm and it’s people that she had in the whole day with the Sheik. But how, by all the gods, was she going to succeed?

Ann sighed. She was curiously reluctant to leave this moment, a feeling she would need to study later, but she was sure there was already someone who noticed that they were both gone. More than likely his brothers considering how they had been acting earlier in the evening. Quite obviously obsessed with him and his actions, it seemed to her. “Perhaps we should get back. We’ve quite a big day tomorrow…” Ann saw something flash over his face, but it was gone in a moment, and he merely nodded.

The spell had been broken, the weight of the worlds worries settling over them again as they made their way back down into the city and Ann racked her brain trying to think of something witty to say to lighten the mood before the sight of a tall, bald figure ahead of her had her stopping in her tracks, every muscle in her body tensing. ‘No…it can’t be.’

“What is it? What’s wrong?”

She heard Djac speak to her, but only shook her head, her face pale. Surely, she was seeing things. There could be no reason for them to be there.

“Princess?” Djac had bent to whisper in her ear, his voice concerned but insistent.

Blue eyes lifted to him briefly, before staring back at the alley before her. “I’m sorry…I must have…” but her words were cut short as the figure appeared again, this time with a companion. She watched as the two of them sniffed the air and slowly began turning their way. The only thing that made them pause their plight was a third companion appearing, this one shorter, and looking quite put out. ‘Bowen…’. A hand slapped over her mouth to stifle a gasp at the sight of the King’s sadistic advisor and she began pushing Djac backwards until they were back around the corner they had just passed a moment ago. “Sentinels…” There was true fear in her voice now, and she felt panic rising within her. “Why are they here? We have to go… Djac if they find me out here….” It was the first she had used his name, forgetting all protocol, and she began backing away slowly. “They will sniff us out like dogs.” She reached for his hand, clamping her fingers over his and urging him to follow, faster. She didn’t know where she was going, but knew they needed to get as far away as possible.

He didn’t pause to question her, but tugged her in a different route, through several darkened alleys, around and around, until Ann was sure her head would never stop spinning. Several minutes passed before he allowed her to stop and catch her breath. “Want to tell me what’s going on?”

She thought she detected a thread of anger in his voice but couldn’t be sure who it was directed to. Leaning heavily against a wall, she looked up at his face, though the features were half hidden by the shadows. “I truly do not know. But if I were to guess, considering those are Crethean Sentinels with my father’s idiotic advisor, someone is growing weary of my interference.” Her voice was a strained whisper, her mind racing as she tried to figure out a solution. “I have been pushing to bring back the council of four.” Long ago, the four realms had representatives from each element that met every turn of the season. Each had spoken of their respective realms, their needs, their wants, any issues that might affect another and had worked together for the betterment of each. It had been a system that had worked beautifully until greed had darkened the minds of most of the ruling families. Gods how stupid could she have been for mentioning it to anyone! Bowen must have overheard her speaking to Ramos. He had been pushing her father to rein her in for some time now, but luckily for her, the King only seemed amused with his little puppet, leaving her to secretly weave her plan throughout the realms. Her lips pulled into a grimace. She couldn’t believe she was telling him this. The information she was relaying, if spoken to the wrong people, could destroy everything. Including herself. “Right now, I am protected because I am the only heir, and a female at that. That alone gives me enough power for my continued survival and, the ability to negotiate with my father for these diplomatic ventures. But if I am caught doing anything that might deem me unfit, I will be shipped back to Crethea and, I suspect, married off to whomever is the most desirable ally. ” Her teeth worked at her lower lip worriedly. Unless her father had truly done what he had threatened and remarried himself so that he could gain another heir. If that had happened, well then, she didn’t want to think of what that meant… It seemed there was more than just the clan leaders here that wanted this to fail. “You should go. If they catch up, it’ll be better if I’m alone.”

 

[Gray Sage]

Djac listened to Annalise in amazement. So the little diplomat was a much more cunning than she let on, scheming to put into effect a council that many would consider treasonous to promote. She peered around the corner as she whispered, clearly intimidated by these pursuers. He suddenly realized he knew very little about her, other than the vague impressions he had gotten from her in the last twelve hours.
“You should go. If they catch up, it’ll be better if I’m alone.”
“Yes.” said a voice behind them. Djac and the princess whipped around to see the three sentinels they had just tried to escape. “It would have been better that way.” Said the main figure in an accent the same as the princess’. The two fierce looking companions at his sides looked on silently.
Djac did not want to take his eyes off of them, but he looked away to catch a glimpse of Annalise who looked scared, but also angry.
“Your highness.” The man’s voice was low but venomous, looking hungrily at the princess. “Your father will be more than disappointed that you are taking your diplomatic duties so…” he trailed off looking for the right word, “irreverently.”
“Oh, let us not be false with one another, Bowen. You know as well as I do, my father cares very little about my success here.”
“On the contrary my dear!” Bowen said, tilting his head in a ghoulish manner. “Your father is very invested in how you succeed here. But I’m afraid, certain matters in this realm are beyond even your silver-tongued control.”
“I don’t know about that. Perhaps we should give it more than a day to decide?” The princess words had a bite to them, her disdain for this man becoming ever clearer.
“But that is precisely my point!” Bowen’s voice rose in eagerness, his eyes taking on an almost frenzied quality as he took a small step toward her. “Your father, our beloved king, may not realize it yet, but you being in this dry, gods-forsaken realm was a waste! There were plenty of opportunities to see his vision through without having to compromise things by involving you. So I have come here to remedy that.” Djac looked to Annalise again, who looked just as confused as he felt. When his gaze shifted back to Bowen, he had taken two steps closer to the princess and was now dangerously close to being in arms reach of her.
Without thinking, Djac sidestepped, coming between Bowen and the princess. Bowen’s gaze snapped up to Djac, looking at him for the first time. Bowen’s face twisted into a furious smile.
“Kill him.” Bowen commanded. His two companions sprang into action, going to their hips for what Djac had assumed was a sword, but he was surprised to find them uncork canteens. They each pulled out a long stream of water, utilizing their abilities and dancing their hands through the air to control it.
Immediately, the water rushed toward Djac and hit his face with such force that he stumbled backward, but more than that, his nose, sinuses, and throat filled with water.
He snorted heavily to expel the liquid. He wiped his face quickly, hacking and gasping for air as he tried to open his eyes to see, but not before the water rushed at him again, this time, something cold bound his wrists and palms, encasing them in ice. Another round of the liquid crashed into his face, willing him to drown.
Before he could gather his thoughts, the water receded, and his eyes cleared. He looked at his surroundings to see Annalise, a look of rage and determination on her face. Her body had taken a fighting stance, one hand in a fist at her ear, the other open in front of her toward the sky. He then realized she had commanded the water to retreat from him, and that in controlling the water certain movements were required, just like with fire.
Fire.
Djac quickly refocused his thoughts, heat bursting through his veins like lightning. The ice around his wrists melted into a puddle at his feet, while he stood to join in the fight. Annalise had already continued her duel with the two sentinels, but Bowen had joined in as well, bringing aged experience to his movements, making the princess move more dramatically as she redirected the flow of the airborne water.
Djac swept his arms across the ground, sending a huge gust of blazing hot air toward his opponents. Summoning fire from everywhere in the city that his mind could reach, he commanded it to come rushing through the streets to his aid, weaving it through the streets and buildings like a maze, one light after another came rushing toward the sentinels in a flash. He spun as the fire rushed in, using the momentum to regain his balance, and composed a fireball in both hands, hurling it toward Bowen’s companions. They blocked them, using what little was left of their water supply to create a shield which evaporated on contact.
Bowen smirked in the brief moment that followed, clenching his fist into a claw before thrusting it down toward the earth in spectacular fashion. An awkward moment followed where they were all silent, and waited.
“By the gods….” Annalise said in terror, her eyes widening at Bowen’s stance. “Djac, RUN!” she turned on her heel and grabbed his hand before taking off down the alley where they were. He ran as fast as he could beside her, but just as he glanced behind them, a geiser, forty feet high, shot through the air, pouring out down the streets in harsh rapid motion. Their path floodly quickly, sweeping away every item it came into contact with. Soon, Annalise and Djac were running through a dark, muddy river rushing faster and faster around them as they continued to run from their opponents.
The water rose rapidly, making it difficult to put one foot in front of the other. Djac glanced behind them again, the geiser still pumping strong, and skimming the surface of the water like it was made of ice, were their adversaries. Djac tripped on something and fell forward, taking the princess down with him as they were still holding hands. Djac plunged into the murky water, moving with the surprisingly strong current, the princess trailing close behind. Suddenly, he felt the pull of safety from the shadows, realizing he could make himself and the princess disappear, if only she did not let go of his hand. With the loud water raging around them, and mysterious objects bumping into him as they sailed, Djac focused on the shadows of the night, his mind stepping into them, into invisibility. Suddenly, a icy hand gripped his ankle, sending a biting, freezing pain up his leg. He screamed under the water, kicking at the hand with his other foot with everything he had before it released him before the shadows rushed at him like dark ghosts. They consumed him, making his world pitch black. He no longer felt the debris crashing into him, he no longer felt the river carrying him down the streets. He felt weightless. He was falling; carried by a torrent of nightfall, through the abyss. Twisting and flailing like a helpless leaf in a tornado, he sunk further and further into this void of shadow. Yet, through the blinding pain in his leg, and through the fear gripping his heart as the darkness surrounded him deeper and deeper, he felt a hand in his, gripping it so tightly, that it’s grounding presence gave him a moment’s clarity.
He commanded his body to go rigid, steadying his stance as they shot through the shadow realm. He opened his eyes for the first time, looking, seeking through the darkness for a doorway. He had been in the shadow realm before, but he had always entered it carefully, never by accident. Normally, the shadow realm looked like an inverted world, where everything was shadow, and they cast small patches of light, doorways, which one would climb through to return to the normal realm. But this was something else entirely. There was hardly any light where they were. It was like a night sky with no stars.
“Djac?” The princess’ voice quivered in the same fear he was feeling. He took her hand and pulled her closer to himself, into an embrace to let her know he was near. Her unseen figure soaked through as he held her, already growing chilled with the lack of warmth.
“What’s happening?” She trembled.
“We’re in the shadow realm. Whatever you do, don’t let go of me.” He said, still looking around them for a source of light. Her grip on him tightened ever so slightly.
“Do you see any light around us? Anything at all?” he asked.
“Yes.” She said. “Behind you.” He pulled away from her to follow what he thought was her gaze, seeing a small dot of blue, like a far off star. He gripped her hand again and took the reins of the shadows, moving their figures close to the light. It steadily became bigger and bigger as they moved through the abyss, Djac concentrating through the pain in his leg and the unforgiving chill of the shadow realm.
Finally, the dot started to materialize into something. Slowly at first, just a shapeless mass. Then, it began to form ridges, and sharp edges, until finally, it was a large hunk of rock. When they finally stood right beside it, Djac tightened his grip on Annalise’s hand, the light from the boulder casting a faint glow on her tired face. She looked at him, though he could not read her expression, just like when she had been in the Congregation Hall.
He took a deep breath and reached out to touch the rock. Coming out of the shadow realm was like fighting his way through a wall of spiderwebs. It required great strength of will and perseverance, pulling two out to rejoin the mortal world. When finally he no longer felt the drag of the darkness, he opened his eyes to see the rock he had placed his hand on.
He looked at their surroundings. Gone was the river. Gone was the city. Not a bit of sand or desert in sight. What lay before them was a vast landscape. Populated with pine trees and snow capped mountains in the distance. They stood on a cliff overlooking a plain that led into an emerald forest, a river rushing below them at the base of the cliff, the entirety of their view dusted with the twilight of the rising sun to their left. Breathtakingly beautiful as it was, it was foreign, and shockingly green.
“Where are we?” Annalise whispered at his side.
“I think…” Djac knew of no such place anywhere within the fire realm, and a feeling of dread expanded in his chest. “I think we’re in the earth realm.”

 

[_Annalise_]

“The earth realm….” A shaky sigh left her lips and Ann fought to ground herself again. If she didn’t stop thinking about what they just came out of, she was going to go mad. Swallowing, she let her mind drift back to her studies. “The Earth Realm. Currently ruled by the mother Terra. She’s nice enough, if but a little quirky.” Her eyes lifted to Djac. “We should be welcomed by her. If we can make it past the rock giants that patrol.”

He glanced down at her. “Rock giants?”

“And her ‘children’. They seem to be quite particular about uninvited guests.”

“You’re worried about children?”

Ann nodded, once more scanning the landscape before them. “Oh yes. They aren’t to be trifled with. Terra collects foundlings. Of all species. Some of them are rather temperamental too.” Brows furrowed, teeth pulling on her lip thoughtfully. “I suspect there are thousands of them now…” Trying to figure out the best way to make their presence known, she saw him grimace in the corner of her eye and lean heavily against the rock to take pressure off a leg. Her body stiffened and she turned, worriedly scanning over him. “What is wrong with your leg?”

His head shook. “Nothing. Just a twinge.”

Her lips frowned at him, hands placing themselves upon her hips. “I know you do not know much about me, but I can tell when someone is lying.”

As his eyes narrowed in a stubborn glare, she mimicked his stance and pointed at him ferociously. Or as much as she could, looking like a drowned rat, she was sure. “Like it or not, we are in a mess. I shall take blame for that. However, though I may be able to talk my way through some rather dire circumstances, as you could probably tell back there I’m not yet armed with skill or strength enough to defeat Bowen and the Sentinels. I cannot get us both out of this. I’m sorry for that.” A hand drug through her damp hair, an apologetic shrug given. “I need you. And I need you well. And if you cannot trust me with the truth, well then we aren’t going to make it back to your realm.”

They stared at each other which felt, to Ann at least, for long minutes, before she saw him relax a fraction and nod.

“Something happened to my leg while we were in the water. It felt as though someone grabbed it and now…”

Ann couldn’t help but scowl. Bowen and his dirty tricks. Bending, she motioned for him to lift his pant leg, and after a moments hesitation when he did, placed her hand upon it. The iciness of it, though she was expecting it, shocked her, concern marring her brow immediately. “Are you able to walk?”

“Yes. It will be slow, but I can walk.”

His words were trying to reassure her that they could continue, but as she rose, she realized that not only was he hurt, but they were both still soaking wet, exhausted, and in a realm that was unfamiliar to them. It could very well be more dangerous to continue the journey now than to rest a couple of hours and risk the delay. Her hand reached out to touch his arm. “We need to find shelter and rest. If only for a bit. Please, Djac.”

He stared at her a moment before finally nodding in agreement and Ann couldn’t help but to slump her shoulders in relief. She’d welcome a rock on her backside at this point, if it meant she was sitting down.

Taking each other’s hand for support, they gingerly made their way down the cliff, searching in silence until Djac caught sight of a shallow crevice that was large enough to offer them a place to hide, and tugged her towards it.

Ann glanced around, satisfied that they may be somewhat safe here for awhile. “Do you think we can have a small fire?”

He gave a faint smile. “I think I can manage that.”

She tugged the wet head wrap from around her neck and watched as he formed a smokeless flame and settled it carefully on the ground before them. Finding some fodder for the fire around the mouth of the cave, he then fed it so that it wouldn’t take much energy from him to keep it going. Ann knelt with the wrap, beside it, holding it near the flame to heat up while forcing the water to stay within the weaves of the fiber. Patting the space beside her, she waited until he settled down next to her before she asked him to pull his pant leg back up. “This may sting a bit…” The words were quiet, apologetic even, as she wrapped the heated fabric around the affected limb.

Credit had to be given where it was due. The man didn’t flinch, though his eyes seemed to darken a bit and Ann watched him sympathetically. “This will help ease some of your discomfort, though I do not know how long it will take to heal. I’ve never known anyone that has survived one of Lord Bowen’s attacks.” She grimaced and wrapped her arms around herself. As dangerous a game as she knew she had been playing, Ann had never outright been attacked before and it had just occurred to her that she may not come out of this alive. Fingers pressed into her face, willing away the exhaustion and guilt at pulling him into this. He had been nothing but kind to her, and because she had been reckless, the Sentinels would undoubtedly now be tracking him down. The thought made her ill. “I should have never gone out into the city with you. I knew….” Her words stopped short as he pulled one of her hands away from her face.

“And miss all of this excitement? Come now, Princess.”

His attempt at humor eased her somewhat and she found herself smiling back. “You are out of your mind, you know that, yes?”

But he only laughed and encouraged her close so that they could share warmth. “Sleep while you can.”

Her mouth opened to deny, yet she was only able to elicit a small yawn. “Just for a moment then…” Gods she was tired. She couldn’t even conjure up the reasons why all of this was highly inappropriate as she lay her head against his offered arm and started fading away.

Her dreams were as jumbled as her reality. Bowens warning swirled around and around, talking about her fathers visions and her compromising them. Ancient scrolls with their words lifted from the delicate parchment speaking of prophesies not yet complete, and memories of her father’s growing need for power had her mind scrambling to keep up, pulling scripts together and pushing them apart just to merge again, and finally a dawning realization occurred. Gasping, Ann’s eyes flew open, only to find that the sun was high in the sky, the shadows were receding and moving her head so that she could see Djac’s face, saw him staring pensively at the mouth of it. Suddenly nervous, she followed his line of sight until she spotted a group of masked figures blocking the entrance. “Foundlings…” she whispered, slowly sitting up with him close behind.

Rising, a hand lifted to her chest and she inclined her head. “I am Annalise of the water realms and this is my companion Djac.” She spoke gently, intentionally leaving off where he hailed from. “We ask for temporary sanctuary from your realm and mother Terra.”

“I may be able to arrange such, Annalise of the water realms…for a price.” a deep melodic voice was heard from the back of the group. The foundlings parted to let through a tall, ebony skinned woman dressed in a simple gown of golden silk. Her lips were pulled into a gentle smile, and her dark eyes swirled with ancient knowledge.

Ann crossed her arms over her breast and dipped into a respectful bow, nudging Djac to follow suit. “mother Terra.” Her own eyes lifted as the woman stopped before her.

“You have had quite the journey.” Terra’s hand reached out so that long delicate fingers could touch Ann’s cheek. “We shall speak on this. And…” she bent to stare closer within Ann’s eyes, “..much more it seems…”

Terra’s gaze moved to Djac, motioning him forward. “There has not been one of your realm here in many centuries, fire prince…”

Ann lifted a brow and glanced over at him, but he looked just surprised as she was.

The earth mothers arms crossed as she stood before him, eyes crinkling. “So you are the one who will set fire to the waters….”

 

[Gray Sage]

Sleeping was really impossible. He was completely exhausted but his body was on edge, and his mind still haunted by the fear the shadows had possessed him with; not to mention the pain still digging into his leg. The princess’ swathe had eased the discomfort, but not enough to help him sleep.
He wondered if deceiving her about the extent of the pain was wise, but something held him back. He did not understand how she did not blame him for their entire situation. He was the one that suggested they leave the palace in the first place. He had removed her from safety, provoked Bowen and his goons, then had gotten them lost in the shadow realm which led them here. If he hadn’t been distracted by the pain in his leg while entering the shadows, he would never have lost control like that.
Guilt churned in his gut like a numbing poison. He looked at the princess who slept soundly at his side. He thanked his gods that she was able to find rest after what they had been through. Though, being so far away from the Abiding Flame, he wasn’t sure his gods could hear him.
Djac tilted his head back, thinking of the Abiding Flame. At the very top of Mount Edan, there was a flame. Translated from the ancient tongue to Abiding Flame or Everlasting Fire, every boy, and most girls, in the fire realm made a pilgrimage to the Abiding Flame before they were ten years old. Djac remembered his trip well. Even from the ground you could see the light it emitted, illuminating the clouds above it. The trek up the mountain was painful, and it was the first time Djac ever remembered being bothered by heat. But to journey up that vast hill was a source of great pride for everyone his age. It was a duty to climb without complaint. Without failure.
When he had finally reached the top and stood before the Abiding Flame, the deepest part of his soul was moved. It was the most beautiful thing he had ever looked on. A pure, white light that burned at half the speed of a normal flame. It radiated a warmth and a divinity unlike anything. As a youth, Djac had never given much sway to the gods, but after having encountered that fire, he felt a connection to them, and vowed to serve them.
The Abiding Flame was the source of all power in the Fire Realm, and the standing theory was that after everyone’s pilgrimage up Mount Edan, the true nature of their abilities would begin to develop. Of course, everyone showed inklings of their potential as children, but the Abiding Flame made them more real. It protected the Fire Realm. It was the origin of all fire. It gave strength to the elementals. It was the gateway between the mortals and the gods. And nothing could extinguish it.
After performing his rites and offering his sacrifice to the Abiding Flame, he descended the mountain feeling changed. Not that he did an outstanding job of honoring the gods after that day, he had an enduring respect for them.
Djac looked up at the lingering stars through the mouth of the meager cave they dwelt in, wondering if his gods could see him now, and what they thought of him. He managed to close his eyes and drift off a few times into the late morning, hardly qualifying as sleep, until he heard a sound that jolted him awake.
A group of completely bizarre figures stood at the mouth of the cave, each with a mask over their faces, each poised for defense. It didn’t take long for Annalise to wake up beside him, though he was surprised when she sprang into action. She introduced herself and him to the creatures, asking for sanctuary, though he wasn’t sure if he felt comfortable asking for sanctuary from what looked like a man with the bottom half of a goat, a hunched over goblin creature with nails the same length as its fingers, and a waxy feminin figure whose skin was periwinkle, with dark veins running all over her body.
He understood now why Annalise had been worried about the foundling “children”.
“I may be able to arrange such, Annalise of the water realms…for a price.” said a voice coming up into the cave from behind the foundlings.
Though the woman looked middle aged, she had an aura of wisdom and time about her. Her head was shaved, and her eyes a commanding black that seemed to go on forever. Djac complied in offering her a bow, mimicking Annalise. He was again surprised when Mother Terra turned her attention to him, calling him a prince.
Initially he thought she might be crazy, and was about to correct her when she took a step closer to him. She looked over him with her dark eyes, a knowing smile behind them.
“So you are the one who will set fire to the waters….”
Djac’s jaw dropped in amazement.
She really is delusional. He thought.
Djac switched to his charming smile and let out a small laugh, “I don’t know what your grace is referring to, but I am honored to be the first to visit your realm in many years, though you must understand it was not our intention, not my intention, to trespass. We landed here completely by accident.”
Terra smiled slowly, flashing dazzlingly white teeth in contrast with her dark skin. “Your grace?” she looked back at her children and they all chuckled, obviously amused by Djac’s choice of words. “Everyone here calls me Mother, though I supposed ‘Your grace’ will have to do since…” she trailed off and let the pause hang for a good moment while looking intently at Djac, “I am not your mother.” Djac had to struggle against making a disturbed face. She was weird.
Terra clapped her hands twice, bringing her foundlings to attention. “Bring the princess to the front of the caravan with me. We have much to discuss. Orion!” She called. An earthquake sounded as an enormous body of rock, shaped in the rough outline of a man, poked its head down to look inside the cave. “You will carry Djac. He will not be able to walk.”
Djac sucked in a breath to protest, terrified of the huge creature, but Terra cut him off “I would advise not struggling.” Terra lifted an eyebrow, daring him to refuse. “Orion doesn’t quite know his own strength.” Terra swished her golden dress as she turned to exit the cave.
Annalise gave Djac an apologetic look as she followed Terra out of the cave. Two of the foundlings came over to assist Djac out of the cave, which he might have objected to had he not been so petrified of Orion.
The giant was truly remarkable, unlike anything Djac had seen before. Its entire body was huge chunks of stone, its face made up of darker shades of gray and the rocks' crevices. Djac looked for Annalise to help, but before he knew it, the giant’s hard fingers wrapped around his torso and lifted him to an uncomfortably high position on its shoulder. It was all Djac could do not to yelp or squirm or cry out for any other possible traveling arrangement.
It occurred to him for a split second that he could just disappear into the shadow realm, but the sun was shining too brightly, and, though he didn’t want to admit it, he still felt uneasy about his experience in the shadow realm the night before. Embarrassingly, he clung tightly to the giant’s head, terrified of losing balance, though he had to admit, it gave him a nice view as he was perched slightly above the tree line. He could see Terra and Annalise mounting their rides at the front of the group.
“Fear not, fire prince!” Terra called after him. “We are headed to Andalese! Paradise of the Earth!” Terra flourished her hand, clearly proud of their intended destination, but Djac had a hard time caring. They began traveling, and Djac would have been impressed with the time they were making if he wasn't exerting all his energy into not falling. Before long, the little cave he and the princess had found refuge in was nowhere in sight, and they were lost headed deep into the pine forest.

 

[_Annalise_]

Ann was helpless to do anything but follow Terra, giving Djac what she hoped was an encouraging look, though she was sure it went unnoticed as Orion picked him up.

At the head of the group, a little grey mare was brought to her, and she gathered the reins as she mounted, giving the horse a small pat. Thousands of questions were drifting through her mind though she kept them at bay, knowing that Terra wouldn’t answer until she was good and ready. And indeed, it was a good several minutes into their journey before the earth ruler spoke. It wasn’t however, what she was expecting.

“Are you betrothed to the fire prince or are the two of you already married?

“We’re….” sudden realization of what was being asked hit her like a bath in a cold stream. “Wait, what?” Ann’s hand jerked so hard that her horse danced sideways spooked, and It took her a moment to soothe her mount to a calm walk again.

Terra merely lifted a brow as she looked at the princess curiously. “Did we or did we not find the two of you sleeping together?”

“It isn’t...that’s not...nothing happened!” All Ann could do was sputter, her usual cool composure long gone by this point. “We were merely sharing warmth!”

The earth mothers other brow lifted.

Ann suppressed a frustrated groan. “Because we were soaked through. We were both freezing, and at the time, it seemed the best way to survive the night.”

“Hmm.” Terra glanced forward again. “So you brought an unattached male into this realm on purpose?”

If Ann was a lesser person, she might have snapped, but considering their current circumstances....she sighed. “I know. I know your rules and I did not mean any offense, mother Terra. If there had been any other way, by my honor I would have taken it.” Her eyes shifted behind them and upwards towards Djac in concern before pulling her attention back to Terra. “I will personally take full responsibility for him and any actions he takes. He will not leave my sight while we are in your realm.”

Terra looked ahead again. “A song.”

A faint frown pulled across Ann’s lips. “I beg your pardon?”

“Your payment for my realms sanctuary and assistance shall be a song, water princess. We haven’t had one since before the realms parted, and I wish for one to help heal the rifts that have spread. The lakes and rivers are dwindling here. My children are becoming hungry.”

Ann resisted the urge to pinch the bridge of her nose to relieve the ache that was building in her head. That was a relatively big request and one that would take weeks, if not months, to weave, and it wouldn’t fix the problem, it would only provide a temporary solution. Not that she thought she could convince the earth mother of that. Grimacing internally, she cast a glance back up to where Djac was being held. She could barely make out the top of his head. The man had to be almost spent from hanging on. Her shoulders slumped in defeat. “Very well. Help us, and on my word, a song shall be yours.”

Pleased, Terra’s smile widened. “Perfect.” Nudging her horse into a trot, they continued onwards.

A sudden break in the trees, after what seemed like hours, found them hovering upon a steep cliff. Looking downwards, etched into the very mountainside and valley below was Andalese, the heart of the earth realm. It was truly a beautiful place, Ann had to admit. A waterfall graced one side of the cliff, cascading into the river below like silk, it’s sprays framing the pearly white walls of the castle that jutted out proudly, overlooking a landscape that was blanketed with emerald canopied trees and richly colored flowers. Homes and alcoves were connected to the castle like a laced shawl warming the shoulders of its great lady and you could see peeks of the cities inhabitants roaming the open halls, the distant sounds of laughter and conversations reaching their ears.

The group continued down the steep path dotted with glowing lanterns to ward off disorienting shadows and as they moved further downwards, towards the great doors of the castle, she saw that there were paved roads of brick winding through the fields and around trees, various shops and colorful merchant carts coming into view, and bridges spanning the river connecting the two sides.

Ann’s eyes drifted upwards as she saw the rock giant pluck Djac from his head with his stoney fist and through a wide window into a room that she couldn’t yet see.

Frowning as they came to a halt and dismounted, she glanced to Terra who waved off her noticeable concern. “He’s fine. Someone has sent for a healer. The earth has spoken of his injury.”

Brows furrowed, but Ann kept quiet, thanking the groom that came to collect their horses before following Terra into the castle.

Nature was welcomed within as well, it seemed, as Ann passed walls covered in blooming vines, earthy scents greeting her around every corner. A door opened before them and Terra led her into an airy conservatory, lending views to the city below.

She spotted Djac upon a lounge, watching as the earth mother walked purposefully towards him, curious of his leg no doubt, but a motion in the corner of her eye caught her attention and she turned, surprised shock spreading across her face. “Nikolas?”

The tall man stood from his chair, smiling widely. “Your highness.” His grey head bowed low before he strode towards her.

Taking his hands, Ann returned the grin to her late mothers personal advisor, pleasure brightening her eyes. “It has been too long! I was half worried that you had died.” Her tone gently admonished. “But you’ve been here. All along?”

He nodded, exchanging a glance with Terra. “Oh yes. What mother earth commands, mother earth receives.”

Ann looked between the two of them. “You mean, you’re….”

“Married? Yes. Took quite a bit of time for her to convince me to live in this absurd comm…”

“Nik!” Terra aimed a level look at him, unamused at her husbands answering laughter, before turning back to her ‘patient’. “Your princess is failing to mention that we found her and this fire prince sleeping together within a cave.”

Nikolas’s jaw dropped, dark blue eyes coming back to rest upon Ann.

She gritted her teeth, fighting against aiming a scowling look towards the earth mother. “Our circumstances required certain protocols be ignored for the sake of health. Nothing but sleep occurred, I assure you.”

“Aeolus certainly isn’t going to be pleased with that information.”

Ann stubbornly ignored to take the bait as Nik mentioned the Air King’s name and whirled towards her former companion to change the subject. “How is his leg?” She walked towards them. “I was told it was only a twinge…” her eyes looked to Djac pointedly.

“Oh, our Prince will live to fulfill what he is intended for.” Dark eyes lifted to his face at the cryptic remark, a hand lifting to wave in an elderly healer that held a tray full of various jars. “Lord Bowen did his best to leave his dark magic within, but he is not stronger than our realms potions…”

Feeling relieved, Ann nodded.

Nikolas settled himself into a chair again, a bushy brow lifting. “Then I assume he knows some….” The worlds trailed off.

“Yes, “ the princess confirmed “He knows of my intent and the reasons behind my visits to the various realms. But we are going to have to go a step further now, I think.” Her words were quiet as she sat open the edge of the lounge, glancing down at her hands.

The occupants glance towards her as the healer left discreetly to retrieve a forgotten item. “Further how?” Nik asked.

“I am afraid my father and Bowen have used me to declare war upon the fire clans. We are going to have to unite the realms to destroy the water kingdom. It is the only way they will ever concede to the council of four.” Her father was going to have to die.

 

[Gray Sage]

Andalese was brilliant. Djac had no idea his own realm was so lacking in color. Being in the desert there was not much greenery or plant life to speak of, and to think, he would have boasted that their gardens were a sight to behold before seeing what the earth realm had to offer. He had grown more accustomed to Orion’s movements after the long journey from the cave, and by the time they were descending the cliff to approach the palace, he had nearly taken his guard down completely.

What grabbed his attention more than anything about the city, was the fire that lined the tiny roads weaving in and out of the city. While by all outward appearances it looked, smelled, and felt the same, Djac could feel that its essence was quite different to the fire of his homeland. It was as if its aura was a different color, a different spirit of fire. It was fascinating. For a moment, Djac wanted to leap off the giant and study the curious little flames, exotic and novel.

Before he could think much more about it, Orion’s rocky hand clamped down on his waist and soared him through the air and into a room with a balcony. It took him so much by surprise he didn’t have time to yelp in fear, which he was thankful for.

The room was warmly furnished, in a style unlike anything in the fire realm. It was unoccupied, and along the wall sat a row of large candles. He stood and hobbled across the room to approach one. Oddly enough, he was certain the candles were emitting a sweet scent, lacing the room with an aroma of sage. It was pleasant, strange as it was.
Tentatively, he let the little flames lick his fingers, and his eyes widened in shock. A smile spread wide across his face, and he let out a small chuckle. It was like finding a flavor of food he never knew existed. He stole the flame from its wick, and let it dance between his fingers, studying it closer. How could something so familiar be so different?

“Amazing.” Said a voice behind him. He let the fire extinguish, turning to see a woman had entered the room. Her skin was dark, much like Terra’s, but her features were more youthful, her hair in tight spirals that cascaded down to her hips. She was lovely, with a fascinated look in her eyes. “I’ve never seen it done before. Fire manipulation.” She said in awe. “So you’re the fire prince.”

Djac gave a small laugh. “I’m not a prince. I don’t know why everyone keeps calling me that.”

“Maybe there’s royalty in your blood?” she suggested, lifting a perfectly manicured eyebrow. She laughed a little, easing the tension, before approaching with an outstretched arm. “I’m Bianca, the physician’s apprentice. I’ve been sent in to assess you before he comes in with the correct potions.” Djac took her forearm in greeting. “Will you allow me to examine you?”

Her eyes twinkled, the scent of her perfume hitting him like a soft summer breeze. He couldn’t place the smell, but he definitely liked it. “Of–of course” he stumbled over his words. She gave him another pleasant smile and helped him back over to the lounge. She gingerly rolled up his pant leg as he began to describe what had happened, what the pain was like, and what the princess had done to ease the discomfort.

“Well, I mean no offense to the water realm,” Bianca mused, “But they don’t know healing quite like we do.” They locked eyes, and Djac found himself giving her his charming smile. “I know just the thing for it. Sit tight, I believe Mother Terra and her guest will be joining you soon.” Djac gave a small nod, grateful she’d be returning with something for the pain in his leg. Just as Bianca left, another figure entered the room, looking quite pale in his surroundings, especially given his white, well trimmed hair.

“Good afternoon! I am Nikolas. It is a pleasure to have you here in the earth realm.” Nikolas clasped Djac’s forearm just as Bianca had, clearly the common greeting in his land. He walked over to a table holding red wine and crystalline goblets.

“I must admit, I’m rather excited to make your acquaintance, I’ve never met someone from the fire realm before. This is a new experience for me! I don’t have many of those anymore.” He said pouring himself a glass, a childlike excitement in his eyes. “Wine?”

Djac held up a hand to decline. His stomach was empty, and he needed a clear head.
“I had never met someone from the earth realm before today, so we’re both in unchartered territory.”

Nikolas tilted his head in amusement, taking a sip, “Maybe not from the earth realm, but you have met someone from the water realm.”
“You’re from the water realm?” Djac asked as Nikolas sat in a cushioned chair.

“I served Princess Ann’s mother.” He said proudly, but there was a sadness in his words.

“You know the princess?” Djac breathed just as the doors to the conservatory were opened again. Terra and Annalise entered, followed by Bianca, and a man who Djac assumed was the head physician. Terra came straight to him, her hand moving to his leg. Djac’s attention was torn between his examiners and watching Annalise when she saw her old acquaintance. It was nice to see their reunion, and relieving that they did not seem to have parted on bad terms. A bit surprised that Nikolas was married to Mother Terra, he trusted the white-haired stranger a lot more with Annalise’s approval.

“Your princess is failing to mention that we found her and this fire prince sleeping together within a cave.” Terra chided. Djac’s eyes widened in shock, looking to Annalise to interject. He looked to Bianca too, trying to assure her with looks that there had been no union between himself and the princess. Bianca returned his gaze with a shy look, which somehow made him feel guilty. Why had Terra voiced such a rash conclusion?

The conversation quickly shifted to politics, however, and Djac was glad he hadn’t taken that drink while Terra, Annalise, and Nikolas began a discussion. Being on the other side of the room, he felt somewhat excluded from the conversation, and was about to ask a question about the Council of Four when Bianca knelt down beside him.

“I’m afraid we’re going to have to cut your leg open.” She bit her lip. Startle must have flashed across his face because she quickly corrected herself, “I mean, just a little cut!” she tittered with an embarrassed look. “Sorry, I’m still new to this!” she blushed.

“A little cut is fine,” he tried to comfort her, still trying to listen to the conversation happening at the other side of the room.

“Um… would you mind…” she held up the surgical blade “sterilizing it?” Her eyes were so hopeful, he couldn’t resist obliging. Grabbing the blade, he snapped his fingers and held up the fire to the edge. He looked down at his audience who looked captivated.

“Wow!” she grinned. “You’re amazing!” as soon as she said the words she looked embarrassed again, as if it were completely unprofessional. Her bashfulness made him smile, and he handed the blade back to her.

She took what looked like an oil and spread it on the knife, “This is to numb the senses. You won’t feel a thing.” She said softly. Djac nodded, bracing himself for the pain anyway.

Bianca was right though, miraculously the knife simply felt like it was grazing the top of his skin as it sliced through to the lower layers. He watched her work as she dragged a two inch slit along his shin. Using a tiny pair of retractors, she spread the skin apart before holding out her hand to the physician and his tray of potions. “Nule Luhta” she asked for the potion. The physician obliged, and she poured a clear, syrupy concoction into the open wound. She continued to work, dipping small pins into some other potion before strategically rooting them in several places on his leg. She sewed up the incision, pouring yet another potion over the top of the stitches, then removing the pins she arranged. She kept looking up at him as she worked, flashing him her green eyes with an inner rim of caramel. Each time she did, he found himself smiling.

“Still new at this are you?” Djac teased. Bianca smiled timidly. She looked over the tray of potions again, and snatched a vial.

“Take this before you go to bed, and you should be healed by morning.” He looked down at her medicine, noticing a small bottle of purple, and an even smaller locket of a gold liquid. Djac nodded and thanked her. She stood, offering him one last smile before turning with her master to leave the room. It wasn’t until the door closed behind them that he realized Bianca’s handiwork had completely distracted him from whatever Annalise had been discussing with their hosts. He looked over at her, only to find she was looking right back at him with that impossible-to-read expression.

“Not that that matters today.” Terra was finishing her thought, “But tonight, we will have a proper banquet in your honor. I am sure there are many dignitaries who will want to see the water princess and the fire prince! We will prepare something special, won’t we Nikolas?”

“Absolutely.” Nikolas took Terra’s hand and kissed it. “It’s the least we can do for someone who is going to help restore this realm.” Nikolas smiled proudly at the princess.

“Clio?” Nikolas called. A servant came through the doors, awaiting a command. “Show these two to their separate rooms.” Nikolas looked at the two of them suggestively. Djac fought the urge to roll his eyes at the insinuation, but remembered like a blast of ice, that he had been determined to seduce Annalise not four days ago.

The princess stood and followed Clio out of the room without looking at Djac again. He realized a second later that the physician had brought him a remarkably extravagant crutch with hand carved designs. He grabbed it as he limped after them.

 

[_Annalise_]

Ann was silent as they were led through the halls to their respective rooms, her thoughts closed off and her blue eyes shuttered. There was much to think about.

‘It’s the least we could do to for someone who is going to help restore them realm...’ Gods her head hurt.

She was aware of Djac’s uneven gait behind her. “I am sure you have questions from all that has been spoken of. You should rest though.” Her features softened a bit. “I will do my best to answer everything tonight. “ She stood there a moment, feeling somewhat awkward. Lips parted to speak again, but thinking better of it, simply gave a small smile and turned away, walking into a door that was opened for her down the hall.

‘There is no going back now…’ Ann slumped against her chambers door as it closed, trying to calm her rolling stomach. If she could do it, if she could take back her words, her actions, would she? Her breath shuddered through her in short panicked gasps, and she very nearly doubled over, struggling to gain her composure back through the fear uncertainty that finally came bubbling forth now that she was alone. Stumbling to a chair, she sat and drew her knees up, resting her forehead upon them. ‘Everything will be fine. Everything ‘has’ to be fine.’ The mantra was repeated over and over again until she felt her breathing slow again.

A knock on the door had her scrambling to right herself, but the face that popped through the opening pulled a faint smile from the terse countenance. “Nik…”

He entered fully, carefully closing the door behind him, concern etched across his features. “I was wondering if you were alright.”

Emotions still raw, all she could manage was a half hearted shrug. “I don’t know if I can do this…” Her blue eyes lifted to meet his. “I’m not a soldier Nikolas. I’m not brave, nor strong. I couldn’t even save us from Bowen. Djac is the only reason we were able to make it out alive. I truly though for a moment that I was going to die, and I was bloody helpless to do anything about it…”

Frowning, Nik set a parcel on a nearby table and walked over to her, lowering his body to sit on the floor at her feet. “I can imagine how frightening that must have been, Princess.”

Ann dropped her head into her hands. “Frightening, yes. And angering. I knew that if I died, my father would use that to bring further bloodshed. He’s using the rumor that I am even now.” Her gaze peeked at him through the slits in her fingers. “How many deaths will happen in my name?”

Reaching up, he caught her hands and held them within his own. “The people that follow you know the risks. And they are doing it because you bring them hope of a better life. Hope that our future generations will survive and thrive. Regardless of whether it be you or someone else that starts this, there will always be the chance of death. Unfortunately, that is just the price we all have to pay. You are doing the right thing. Your mother would be proud.”

Her demeanor still tense, she managed a half smile. “I wish I had half of her bravery.”

Patting her hand, he grinned. “You’re more like her than you think. You were born during winters fury, Princess. Her strength runs through you.” Rising, he picked up the package that he had brought and held it out to her.

Opening it, Ann could only stare in wonderment at the simple items that he had brought. A pang of familiarity ran through her as fingers traced the silver arm cuff, etched with the former queen’s signa, and her crown, the three raised points lifting sharply from the base like the tip of a trident.

“Your acceptance of these will let all know where you stand.”

“Treason against my King….” Her brows furrowed.

His head shook. “No, Princess. That you lead the rebellion against his tyranny. That you will not stand for his unhinged morals. That you will bring peace back to the elemental races.”

Ann swallowed, her eyes lifting to his. “It was never my intent to war for the throne. I could live out the rest of my life amongst the masses, living as one of them, and happy.”

Nik’s smile turned grim. “This is the only way. You were born privileged, my Princess, but not free.”

Her body seemed to deflate as a sigh left her lips, but then she straightened her shoulders, giving a nod. “I know.”

They looked at each other quietly a few moments, an air of remembrance and nostalgia about them, before Nik went to answer a soft knock at the door to allow servants carrying various toiletries and fabrics arrived. “ahh, yes. Terra will want you looking your best tonight. No use in arguing.” He mentioned hurriedly as he watched Ann form a protest at the sight of the finery. “You know how she can be.”

Lips pressed closed at his words and she allowed herself to be led behind an ornate screen.

Hands clasping behind his back, he slowly moved about the room, examining the various objects his wife had placed within. “This Djac fellow….”

Her head tilted to the side, hidden as the maids worked to bathe and ready her for the evenings festivities. “What about him?”

“Terra keeps mentioning the prophecy…I am curious as to your thoughts?”

Ann stared towards the window, her mind cataloging the events of the day..or days….it was all running together now. “I don’t know him well….” She began hesitantly, “…but I do know that he was the only one of the fire realms delegates that spoke to me of the people’s needs….and…” Her voice paused.

Nik stopped, glancing curiously to the screen at her strange tone. “And?” he prompted.

“Well…he…he was able to do this transference thing…my hands were alight with fire, Nik…and yet I was not burned.” She was still trying to figure it out. “I do not care how skilled one is. Water and fire do not mix. He should have never been able to do that. I should have marks…”

A hand scratched at his head. “And you have none?”

“Nary a one.” She affirmed softly. “And he will set flame to the waters….” The words whispered from her lips.

He sighed, his hand dropping to massage his neck at the sudden tension. “It seems we’ve no choice but to trust him then.”

“Yes.”

“Do you think you have sway with Aeolus and the air realm?” There was a faint note of concern in his voice.

Ann shook her head. “No…He is too much like father. We will have to rely on his wind lord brothers.”

That’s what he had been afraid of. “Are you prepared for what they will ask for?”

She was thoughtfully silent for a few moments before speaking slowly. “I will have to be.”

Nodding, he strode towards the door. “Then there is indeed no going back now. I will see you downstairs, Princess. May the sea guide you.”

Hearing the door click closed, her eyes fell towards the crown. “and carry you home…”

Later, hours after the maids had gone, Ann stood in front of the looking glass, once again staring at her visage. Long gone was the girl she had been when she had first arrived on the shores of the fire realm. It felt as though she had grown years in the span of a couple of days. Terra had chosen the dark blue gown for a reason it seemed. One arm and shoulder remained bare, awaiting the cuff that she slid up her arm. And the fabric was simple and unadorned, allowing the eye to be drawn upwards where the crown now sat. It was a blatant statement of challenge. It was her claim to the throne.

A sound at the door had her straightening her shoulders and heading towards it. An escort would be there to collect her and take her to the great hall where her next play would be made. Ann prayed the move was the right one.

 

[Gray Sage]

The door closed to the room, revealing an amalgamation of plant life and rich colors decorating every corner and crevice. The most obvious of which was the ivy creepin up the walls, and the heavy scent of peony. Djac collapsed on the heavily cushioned bed, suddenly fatigued from the lack of sleep the night before, and the journey to Andalese.

He realized that the sun was about to start setting already, and he and the princess had been missing from the fire realm for nearly a day. He wondered if they had sent out search parties, or if his brothers were worried. He doubted it. They likely thought he had whisked the princess away to some romantic spot, which was all according to plan. Perhaps Mother Terra could help him get a message to them, though it likely wouldn’t get to them for a few months. No sooner had the thought come to him than he didn’t want to send it. Let them worry… he thought, a queer resentment twisting in his chest.

There was a knock at the door.

“Enter.” Djac called out. The young man Clio entered, a parcel in his hands.

“Sir, I’ve been instructed to help you prepare for the banquet this evening.” Djac nodded.

He was slightly relieved someone would help him navigate his unfamiliar surroundings. He could still feel the grime of the dried water he and Annalise had been submerged in the night before.

The next hour passed quickly, as Djac was given an array of soaps, oils, sponges, brushes, and cloths with which to clean himself. He felt rather like his masculinity was under scrutiny by the time it was all over, but he had to admit, he had probably never smelled better in his life.

The parcel Clio had brought in contained the clothes he was to wear tonight and as soon as he was dressed, Clio led the way down to where the banquet was being held. Djac had expected to find an extravagant dining hall, but this realm continued to surprise him. They entered a large yard settled beneath an enormous cave wall that arched ninety feet above their heads in a half dome. Parallel to the massive wall was the beginning of the forest, giving off a delicious aroma of pine. A long table set up on the grass, decorated with white flowers, and an assortment of dinnerware. Torches lit the area as the sky drifted into starry twilight, and music played on instruments Djac had never heard before.

Many guests were already floating around the area, drinks in hand. Some stopped to stare at Djac as he entered, intrigued by the fire element. Clio found Djac a suitable refreshment, and he began to wander aimlessly around the yard, studying the wall. It bore a long scroll of pictures that looked neither painted nor sculpted into the rock. It seemed to be telling some sort of a history, though he had no idea how to decipher it.

“So what do you think of it all?” Djac turned to find Bianca smiling coily. She had dressed for the occasion, and looked remarkably pretty in the firelight of the torches, with that enticing perfume lightly accenting the air.

“I’ll have to let you know. I haven’t tasted the food yet.” Djac smirked.

“Wondering about the ruins?” Bianca pointed to the images on the wall. “A depiction of our history. Our ancestors used a very special potion to paint it.” Her eyes glinted. Suddenly the music in the room stopped, and a small yet round man shouted an announcement at the entrance.

“Her Majesty, our honorable Mother, Terra.” The noise in the space quieted, and Terra entered the yard, her hand atop Nikolas’ as he escorted her down the steps to the grass. Terra was adorned with a necklace of a million diamonds, each one sparkling like it had never seen light.

“My children,” She called out, “We are gathered to welcome our distinguished guests, and to honor a hope dearly wished for, a song by a great voice! Her Royal Highness, The Melody of Winter, The Essence of the Sea, Princess Annalise of the Water Realm!” Terra released Nikolas’ hand and turned to clap as she gazed up the steps.

Annalise walked through the entrance to the applause. Annalise looked poised and sophisticated. She bore the same regality that she had when Djac had first seen her. She looked like a queen. She looked beautiful.

Annalise waited for the applause to die down before descending the steps to join Terra and Nikolas. The three of them were quickly swarmed with loyal subjects and eager hands. Djac felt compelled to stay by Bianca, away from the crowds, though he noticed that Annalise’s eyes seemed to be scanning the crowd. .

“Sir?” Clio interrupted. “Mother Terra has requested you join her at the table.” Djac nodded and took Bianca’s hand to place a light kiss on it.

Mother Terra sat at the head of the table with Nikolas to her left and Annalise to her right. Djac took his place beside Annalise, facing the great cave wall.

Almost as soon as everyone was seated, Terra stood, grabbing everyone’s attention.

“Let us thank the earth for this bounty.” She lifted her hands to the sky.

There was a long moment of silence while Terra stared at the sky. While everyone else’s eyes were also fixed on the stars, Djac discreetly pulled his hands under the table, and encased them in the blue cleansing fire to rid himself of impurities. He said a short thanks to his gods, just as Terra sat down. As soon as she did, the servants came to place a plate of food in front of each of the guests.

The servings started out small and gradually got bigger, ranging from an unidentified goop of gray, to carefully erected green leaves, to a chicken breast smothered in a delicious white sauce. No sooner had one plate been served than it was taken away and replaced by another.

“So, Prince, tell me of your realm.” Terra said, gracefully lifting a bite to her lips.

“It’s hot.” He said simply. Terra broke out into laughter much more boisterous than the joke called for. Djac took a sip from his chalice, trying not to laugh at Terra’s oddities. Djac looked to Annalise who returned his amusement from the corner of her eye.

“But really,” Terra said, coming down from her amusement. “What is it like?”

Djac took more time to come up with a response, wanting to do his realm justice. “The fire realm is home. The desert is captivating. Our traditions unite us and keep us strong. Our people are fierce and have a passion for life, and yet…” He trailed off, looking again at Annalise, who was the only other person there who had seen firsthand the suffering of Djac’s kinsman.

“Yet, it is dying.” Terra finished sadly. Djac might not have chosen such a definitive description, but he could not disagree.

“That is why Annalise must succeed in her endeavor.” Nikolas added, nodding to himself.

“Her endeavor?” Djac looked between the three of them. Just then, another plate was swapped out, holding a cake daintily decorated with berries.

“All in good time, Prince.” Terra whispered, her chin resting lightly on her fingers. “Do not worry though, you will be vital in bringing about its success. So says the prophecy.” She said it casually enough, but Djac was getting a little irritated that everyone but himself seemed to have a claim on his destiny. “Tell me what your realm teaches about…” she trailed off, giving a quick but meaningful look to her husband, “about the world’s beginnings.”

The question surprised him, but he knew the story well enough, “Essentially, the Abiding Flame sparked into being and burned away all darkness. It ignited life and created the twelve fire gods who in turn created the gods of the earth, water, and air realms, and each of the gods crafted humans, and other creatures, from their elements. They lived in harmony for a time, but eventually drifted apart to govern their own realms.”

Terra, Nikolas, and even Annalise looked at Djac with wide, baffled eyes. “That’s… different.” Nikolas said slowly.

“Not the same account you have, I take it?” Djac mused, trying to fit another bite of cake into his crammed stomach.

“Ann and I were taught differently in the water realm, but I did not have a truly comprehensive understanding of the beginning until I came to live in the earth realm.” Nikolas took Terra’s hand affectionately.

“What are you saying, Nik? That our histories don’t give a true account of the world’s creation?” Annalise snickered.

“There are elements of truth to it… as there are with Djac’s version of events. But both versions do not start at the beginning. Fire is not the oldest element, neither is water. But air.” Nikolas’ eyes had taken on mystery as his words got more serious.

“Now Nik, don’t spoil the story!” Terra chided. “We have prepared a special treat for the Princess and Prince, if you’re finished with your meal?” Terra motioned to their plates, which were retrieved when Djac and Annalise nodded in agreement. “Follow me.” Terra beckoned, a bright delight in her eyes.

Djac and Annalise stood from the table, walking with Terra and Nikolas over to an area where seating had been arranged to look on at a stone stage that was part of the cave wall. It was surprisingly well lit, and Djac quickly guessed they were about to watch a performance. The other guests from the table followed swiftly, and were seated in the rows behind where Annalise and Djac were ushered, in an unencumbered view of the stage.

“Now,” Terra said in front of them, wringing her hands. If he was not mistaken, she looked nervous. “This is a rare performance by the most talented dancers in our realm, but it portrays the true and complete history of the world’s beginnings. I hope you two will enjoy, but first!” Terra waved on a last wave of servants who came through the rows holding trays that held dozens of vials of a clear green liquid. One was offered to Djac and Annalise. They looked at each other before looking to Terra in confusion. “It’s just a harmless little potion to enhance your experience of the performance!” She said, taking a tube herself and draining it to the last drop. Djac looked at Annalise, a little skeptical, but once Nikolas nonchalantly took his green potion, she offered Djac a tiny shrug, though her expression remained warry.

Djac and Annalise threw back their potions, leaving a strange film over his tongue. He felt no immediate affects, but looked to Terra who had a queer smile on her face. She clapped loudly twice, and swished her dress around to take her seat on the other side of Annalise.

Then music began, as the lighting of the stage dimmed. It was a lovely melody, played on those strange and exotic instruments Djac was so unfamiliar with, starting out slowly then swelling to a romantic theme.

Suddenly, the paintings on the wall began to glow. Some took on a golden light, others a bluish tint, but it was breathtaking nonetheless. Somehow, the pictures seemed more familiar, though Djac could not yet discern their meaning.

“Long ago, when time first began, there was Air.” A soft voice hummed as if all around him. Djac nearly jumped, looking in every direction for its source, but finding nothing. Then, a figure appeared on the stage. Glowing as if he was an angel, just like the paintings on the wall, he was tall and masculine, with loose fitted clothing and long hair that seemed to catch the breeze though Djac felt none around him. “Though Air was master unto himself,” the whisper continued, “ruler of the skies, he felt the desire to create. His heart was lonely, and his mind in longing.”

Suddenly, the man began to dance. Odd to behold at first, but it quickly turned beautiful and astonishingly impressive, displaying great flexibility and control over his movements.

“Air summoned in him all his strength, and from the innermost being of his power, he formed Water…” The dancer stopped, holding out his hands in an extended pose, and releasing a long held breath, water began to drip from his arms and onto the ground below. To Djac’s wonderment, the water began to accumulate on top of itself until it took the shape of a woman. Air slowed and watched his creation, as the shape of womanly water began to solidify until a glowing woman stood in front of them.

Djac blinked a dozen times, but he could not wipe away the beauty who stood beside Air. Her hair rippled like water, her flowing dress creating the same mirage. She turned her lovely head to look at her creator, before he reached out his hand for her to take. She spun gracefully, and fell into step with Air, the two of them moving about the stage in glorious dance. “Air and Water lived married together as husband and wife.” The dancers repeated their steps over and over again, the music copying its notes with each of their rounds about the stage.

“But Water grew heavy…” Water slowed her dance with Air, pulling away from his grip and shifting her movements elsewhere, “For she did not belong in the skies with Air. She could not remain...and thus, she fell…”

The sudden smell of rain pierced the air, and the sound and image of it appeared around the dancers on the stage, but Djac felt no drop hit him. “She fell, and fell” Water’s dance became more erratic as she leapt and twisted about the stage, seemingly in pain, all while Air watched her with stoicism. Finally, Water collapsed, laying in complete stillness at the edge of the stage. The music slowed to a tragic and poignant song, while Water wept from her position.

An image flashed across Djac’s mind of a world of pure water. An ocean totally calm, without a wave or ripple, reflecting millions of stars in a haunting silence. As quickly as the image came, it disappeared, and Djac looked in pity at the fallen dancer who now gazed at the audience with red eyes, depressed and still.

“Thus Air and Water remained, separated and motionless...” A long silence drew out, making it uncomfortable to watch Water weep for so long, and for Air to watch her coldly from the back of the stage. “Until… when millenia had passed, Air again felt alone, and his creative nature stirred. He decided to create once more….”

Air moved toward the center of the stage with a look of determination. With a grander gesture than before, Air whipped his arms around, using all his might to create this being which started with a spark…. then another… then another, until a small fire appeared in midair; a familiar, brilliant white flame burst before them, burning at half the speed of normal fire, until it grew to be the size of a man.

Djac stirred in his seat, his heart beating fast. The image of the eternal flame captivating his attention until its light burned into the form of a man, just as water had become a woman.

Fire looked to his creator Water had done, his eyes blazing. Djac felt an immediate connection to Fire, feeling as though the main protagonist of the story had finally arrived.

“Fire and Air forged friendship, strong and true. Their companionship filled the void that Air longed for, and the two loved each other as brothers.” Air and Fire began to dance side by side, a jovial series of movements with upbeat music. They continued thus for some time, before something felt off about Fire, and sudden bursts of flame would flare from his arms, white flames began to snake around the dancer’s body, combusting like fireworks, burning bright and hot. “But Air soon found that he could not contain his new companion. The more he tried… the wilder Fire became…” As Air and Fire moved around one another, They danced faster switching to a choreographed fight that looked highly realistic, as Air tried to grab Fire but would burn himself if he got too close. Fire’s light grew in intensity with each round. The music swelled to something frightening and wild. Djac’s anger and frustration rose on behalf of Fire, who seemed to be attacked by Air. Another terrifying image flashed in Djac’s mind, fire burning red and furious, raining from the skies, lighting flashing throughout the empty space.

“Desperate, Air came to realize he could not coexist with such a creation, and he called on his ancient wife to save him and assist in destroying the companion he had come to fear…”

Air’s dancer ran to where Water lay, still weeping at the edge of the stage. He violently shook her shoulder, silently pleading with her to rise and help him. Water stirred from her place, looking sympathetically at Air. He offered his hand to her and she reluctantly took it, moving across the stage with him to where Fire savagely danced alone. Air approached Fire and the two engaged in their battle again, growing angrier than ever. Water moved around them, at a loss on how to intervene when suddenly, just as Fire was about to attack again, Water grabbed Fire’s hand and pulled him to her.

The music ceased to a heavenly voice singing a prolonged note as Fire spun away from Air and first beheld Water. Djac felt a powerful peace rush over him and a surge of affection for Water. The flames whirring around him vanished, returning him to the slow burning aura of his beginning. She looked at him serenely, while he returned her gaze, enraptured. Her hand lifted slowly to his cheek, bringing them closer together. He took the wrist of the hand that touched him…

“Water did tamed Fire, for he could not burn her… but the effect of Fire on Water, was more than Air had bargained for… and the passion between them could not be undone…”

Desire suddenly gripped Djac’s heart, living vicariously through Fire as he and Water pulled one another into a passionate kiss, embracing the other as if their lives depended on it. The romantic melody from the beginning filled the space, echoing off the cave wall, expanding the sense of zeal, adoration, lust, and total, utter devotion.

Fire and Water started a dance so moving and synchronized it made all the movements up until that point look like child’s play. Lifts and spins in quick succession, they flowed together so beautifully, every so often coming together to kiss, hold one another, or simply to stare into each other’s eyes.

“Water loved Fire, as Fire loved Water… Just as she tamed him, he ignited her soul. The seas stirred for the first time since she had fallen from the skies. Waves crashed, currents rushed, and the ocean teamed with life.”

An image of the bluest water crossed Djac’s mind, sparkling like diamonds under fire’s influence, happy and warm.

“Jealousy raged in the winds, but tried as Air did to separate them, the love of Water and Fire kept them fast together…” The dancers adjusted, Water and Fire continuing their dance as Air moved around them, helpless to interfere.

“But something happened then, which would alter the fates of Fire and Water forever…”

Fire and Water danced together again, holding hands to create a circle. Between them, something started to take form, spinning faster and faster as it grew in size, its shape turning into something not unlike another person. The piece of earth began to twist and morph itself into a small girl until she stood between them, looking up curiously at her parents.

The small figure of the girl was so beautiful, Djac nearly felt his heart stop. He had never seen a child so divine or precious. Without warning, the child started to grow between them until she looked like a young woman, magnificent, like her mother. She began to dance as a graceful and innocent soloist, observed proudly by her parents.

“Earth grew, strong and noble, a spirit within her to create and build…” Earth wove her hands through the air elegantly, small figures of light appearing before her in the shapes of trees, mountains, and creatures, great and small.

“But the jealousy of Air had not been forgotten…” Air’s dancer suddenly crashed through Fire and Water, separating them for the first time since their union. “Mad with hatred, Air stirred the winds so mightily that Fire had no choice but to explode in response! Try as she might, Water could not tame Fire as the wind blasted the flames hotter and hotter! And while Fire could not harm Water… Earth was not so fortunate…”

Horror struck Djac as the flames Air had built got out of hand, and lashed out in all directions from Fire. It consumed Earth, incinerating her beautiful creations, and making her writhe in pain as she burned alive. Water and Earth begged at the feet of Air, but his fury prevailed.

“Fire scorched the Earth, keeping her from flourishing, and burning all that was green. Water and Fire pleaded with Air for mercy, and for a brief moment, Air felt shame for what he had done. For he had seen how truly lovely Earth was, and how she had made the world complete. Still, he could not have Fire live in the same domain, as he had stolen his wife and betrayed any bonds of friendship. Thus he demanded banishment, saying that he would send Fire far above the skies to watch his loved ones from afar.

“For the love of his daughter, Fire agreed, but on one condition. He would leave a part of himself there on earth, allowing the creatures of earth to utilize the hearth, and when Water needed him most, he would return to reclaim that part of himself, and help her. Air agreed. Fire tore himself apart and situated his heart at the top of the mountain Edan… then… he said his farewells…”

Fire approached Water slowly, her lovely face filled with tears again as she embraced her love. The scene was heartbreaking, but Djac felt like his mind was being stretched and pulled to its snapping point. The headache had come on so subtly he hadn’t noticed how acute it had gotten. His focus was shifting between his view from his seat, to looking into the face of his beloved Water, cupping her cheeks in his hands, and experiencing the cosmic pain of leaving her…

Suddenly, Djac was totally one with Fire, feeling, seeing, experiencing everything he was. He took in a deep breath, filling his lungs with the scent of his dear one. Without opening his eyes, he lifted her lips to his, kissing her with such passion he thought the stars would fall… Finally, he felt a tear fall from his eye, a tear of water, and trickle down his cheek. Then, he opened his eyes to look at her, seeing Annalise’s face stare back at him, before he shot into the sky, painfully transforming into a huge sphere of fire, settling as the sun.

Djac’s real eyes shot open, the scene around him back to reality. The dancers were at the edge of the stage, bowing to the audience’s roaring applause, the lights on the cave wall had faded, and the music stopped. Djac’s face was covered in beading sweat as he breathed heavily, completely unnerved by what he had just seen.

“What the hell was in that potion?” Djac breathed.

“You saw it too?” A voice whispered beside him. Djac turned, having forgotten that Annalise sat to his left. A heaving knot twisted in his stomach as she looked back at him with the same unnerved and horrified expression.

 

[_Annalise_]

They stared at each other for a long moment. Ann wasn’t sure what to say, how to form the words to express what she had just experienced. She felt the hollow grief even now, and a strange aching deep within her womb.

‘Here.’ She heard Djac’s quiet voice and her eyes lowered to see him extending a piece of cloth to her. Confusion rose until she became aware of the dampness upon her cheeks. Tears? Her fingers met his, accepting his offering as she turned to wipe the evidence of her emotion away discreetly. Why had it all seemed so familiar? As though a long buried memory slowly rising back to the surface. Struggling for her composure, she became aware of Terra staring at them with a curious half smile, Nik at her shoulder. But before either one of them could speak, she held up a hand.

“Not yet, ” Ann’s blue eyes pleaded for time. “…a moment…please…” Clenching the kerchief in her hands, she tried to slow her erratic heartbeat and make sense out of the unfamiliar onslaught of emotion. Emotion that was singularly directed towards one person. Djac.

Her gaze drifted to him reluctantly, and found him still watching her, concerned. Unbidden did a desire to embrace him flood her and, at realizing that her arms were reaching for him instinctively, shot out of her chair, very nearly taking a tumble backwards was it not for the steadying hand that grasped hers. “I am fine. I am fine.” The words rasped from her, desperate to shake loose of the feelings of being out of control of her own state of mind. Gently pulling loose, she turned to snatch up two small goblets of a strong smelling amber alcohol, and handed Djac one before draining her own. She welcomed the jolting heat that the liquid spread throughout her belly, though it brought forth a small cough, and a hand pressed against her lips as she sucked in a breath, hoping it would calm her nerves.

Terra glanced discreetly at Nikolas, brows furrowed. “Perhaps you and I should speak privately, Princess…Nik can take the Prince…”

“No!” The denial left her lips vehemently before Terra even finished speaking, challenging, a strange panic at the thought of separation causing a searing pain to rise up within her like a wave cresting over rocks. Beneath their feet, a strange rumbling emerged as the waters beneath the earth began to stir, and the surface began to shimmer with an icy mist.

“Princess, enough!” Nikolas’s voice was harsh and unforgiving as he stepped before Terra, his hand rising to take control of her arm.

Beside her she sensed Djac stiffen at Nick’s tone and stepping in front of him before he could react, she lifted her hands up in surrender. “Forgive me. I am... tired and this is all been quite....overwhelming. For both of us, I suspect.” Her voice still had a small tremor to it, but the water had fallen silent again and the frost melted away.

“Perhaps, in light of the current events, we should remain together.” Djac spoke evenly to Nik and Terra from his place at her left shoulder, and Ann felt a rush of relief at his understanding. Whatever confusion she felt, he was undoubtedly feeling it as well.

Their two companions shared another glance between each other and Ann felt her eyes narrow in response before Terra gave a nod. “Come along then. We can speak in my quarters.” And without another word, she walked away, giving them no real choice but to follow if they wanted answers.

“I am taking it that was as surprising to you as it was to me?” Djac bent to whisper in her ear as they walked, and Ann cut her eyes to him before slowly inclining her head in confirmation.

“Yes.” It was concerning really, to know that there was much she still didn’t know, or that was being kept from her. And it made her realize just what Djac must be feeling. Reaching over, she touched his arm lightly as they walked. “I am sorry. For not telling you what I knew sooner.” Her eyes were apologetic. Any further words were cut short though, as Nik opened two massive doors and ushered them within the suite of rooms within.

The earth queens personal domain was nothing short of splendid, just as Ann knew it would be. Fragrant flowers climbed the walls, disappearing into a thick green canopy over their heads, bright pillows were scattered about thick carpet that she swore could have been grass, and rich oil paintings of landscapes and family nestled haphazardly against the foliage as though nature had created it herself. Odd, yes, but beautiful indeed, and very much suited to it’s mistress.

The doors closed behind them, and Terra extended her hand. “Have a seat, please.”

Reluctantly, Ann sank to the floor, Djac beside her, and watched as Terra and Nik joined them.

“Princess, perhaps you should start. It might be easier from the beginning. The prophesy perhaps?”

Her stomach dropped, and she pressed a hand to it, searching for calm. But her blonde head dipped obediently as she began to recite the words etched within her memory. Words she had heard spoken for as long as she could remember.

“Where once was split, turmoil rages and darkness shall come to pass.
Should water call, fire will spark, the prince to answer her song.
The three firsts shall war, till death abounds as air shall cause destruction.
Yet when earth turns pale, her leaves to wilt, fire will set flame to waves.
The world will quake, but earth will rise to bloom, as death gives way to life.
Air will fly and move the waters, as fire fades back to its fold.
When all is still, a truce once more, and peace will begin anew.”

She dropped her eyes, feeling sudden shame. “I had an ulterior motive when I came to the fire realm. It wasn’t just to seek a treaty, but to search for the prince. To seek he who would help bring peace back to the realms.”

“But you found me…” Djac spoke.

Ann nodded slowly. “I found you. And then Bowen came, and you got caught up in all of this…”

“It was his fate to do so.” Terra interrupted, and Ann glanced to her and Nik.

“How do you know? How do you know he isn’t just a bloody innocent bystander who now has sentinels searching for him?”

The earth queen smiled. “Who did you see earlier?”

She jerked at the question, her body tensing. “What do you mean? Your potion caused hallucinations.”

Terra snorted. “My potion enhances, it does not fabricate visions.” Her body leaned forward. “Who did you see?” she asked again.

Ann met Djac’s eyes and felt a chill cross her body. Unbidden, she rubbed her arms, seeking comfort. “You mean to tell me, that he truly is the Prince? That all that…was truth?” Gods she felt suddenly ill. “Then why does the water realm not know of this? We are the keepers of memories! It makes no sense.”

Nik reached out to clasp Terra’s hand. “Because Air did not wish for Water or Fire to remember, and he underestimated Earth’s determination to bring back that which was lost.”

She didn’t know what to say. How was she to complete her task knowing now what she did…after seeing what she saw? And how was she to ask Djac? A breath left her in a rush as she attempted to come to terms with everything, not noticing that Terra and Nikolas had stood until they were at the doors again.

“Take a few moments.” Terra said, “But I am afraid that is all you have. We still have much work to do, and many allies to gather. Tonight is the first of many, and we still have the wind lords ahead of us.” And with that, they left, leaving Ann and Djac alone with their thoughts.

All was quiet for awhile, each probably not knowing what to say to the other, and Ann rose, moving to a table where a pitcher of wine rested. Pouring two glasses, she glanced at him. “I do not typically indulge…but tonight…tonight seems fitting to do so.” She held one out to him. “Join me in one before we have to go back?” Ann waited until he stood, accepting the drink that could only aid in briefly calming nerves before he offered his arm to her. Smiling faintly, she linked her own through his offered one and they slowly made their way back towards the banquet.

“You do not have to…” Her voice murmured after a few moments, feeling strangely protective. “…You could leave and go back to your realm. Marry whomever you wish and have lots of talented fire babies, or disappear into your desert until you are ready to be found again.”

They stopped at the edge of the banquet entrance, both watching the continuation of the nights events. Life was still moving along even after all they had seen. How, by the gods, would she be able to continue with everything, with all of her plans, with negotiations with the wind lord brothers, after all she had seen? Blue eyes scanned the crowd, seeing smiling faces and listening to the sounds of laughter and contentment. How could she not? Lifting her eyes to his face, she tried to make out his thoughts. “But if you continue on, if you enter, then I’m afraid there is no going back…”

 

[Gray Sage]

Annalise recited the prophecy, making the hair on Djac’s arms stand on edge. He could hardly listen to the conversation that followed between Annalise and Terra, his mind still processed the prophecy, what was suddenly expected of him, and the lingering effects of the performance.

“My potion enhances, it does not fabricate visions.” Terra challenged “Who did you see?” she asked, a terrible daring in her eyes.

Djac and Annalise looked at each other. Painfully, he still remembered the taste of her kiss… or Water’s kiss… he wasn’t sure, but he felt awkward… and a strange sense of longing.

Terra and Nikolas left after a while, leaving Annalise to pour the two of them a drink, which he was grateful for, even if he was already feeling on the edge of tipsy. The two of them drank the wine in silence before they made their way to walk back toward the banquet. He wished they could talk yet he found no words to say.

Annalise’s warning surprised him. The thought of leaving her suddenly scared him, and not to mention made him feel slightly angry. Yet, he could not shake the feeling that something was not quite right. As if being with her was not where he was supposed to be.

He looked down into Annalise’s eyes, their icy blue chilling him. “I don’t really know what I’m getting into.” He whispered. “How do you know you want me at your side?”

The princess returned his gaze, unwavering. “I don’t. I think only you can make that decision. But make no mistake, Djac. A war is coming, and this may be the best way to protect your people.” Djac’s stomach sank. A war. He had always hoped he would never live to see one, but that had always seemed like wishful thinking. Now that it was upon him, he had little idea of what to do.

Annalise left his side and descended the stairs toward the banquet. He watched her go, her dark blue gown trailing gracefully behind her. He let out a sigh, frustrated by the mysteries surrounding her. Who was she? Why was he here with her? How was he meant to help her?

Djac turned on his heel, suddenly anxious to get as far from the banquet as possible. He walked quickly down corridors, hallways, down steps, taking lefts and rights, hoping to get truly lost and isolated. He made his way into a street somewhere, quiet, dimly lit and abandoned, save for one man smoking peacefully under a lamp surrounded by dozens of bugs.

The old man looked curiously at Djac but said nothing. Djac approached him warily.

“Could you spare a smoke?” Djac asked, realizing how much he missed the leaf of his home.

The old man pulled out a pre-rolled leaf and offered it to Djac, who accepted with thanks. He snapped his fingers and lit the end, taking in a deep drag and filling his lungs with the unfamiliar smoke. It was different from his usual blend, which disappointed him, but he took what he could get.

“You’re the fire element?” The old man asked, taking another puff.

Djac nodded, not sure if he was comfortable being so famous.

“What are you doing here?” He asked offhandedly, his accent much less proper than Mother Terra’s. Djac shook his head, truly at a loss for the right answer.

“It was an accident.” Djac said. The old man nodded casually.

“How long are you staying here?” He asked. Djac almost wanted to chuckle at how laid back this man was. He had no idea the significance of these questions.

“I don’t know. My companion has to stay to help Mother Terra, I have to decide whether or not to remain with her.” Djac lifted the cigarette to his lips, his hand slightly trembling. The old man considered Djac’s words, carefully digesting them.

“Well, if you do stay, be vigilant, young man. I’ve heard tales about the trials of the Fire Realm, but the Earth Realm is another beast altogether. There are things here that would shock you to learn. I would not be deceived by the grandeur of our decor and the niceties of our hospitality. There is danger that lurks in this realm, and you would be wise to heed it.” With that the old man threw down his butt and stamped it out on the ground. He walked away without another word, towing a cart behind him.

Djac stared after him, suddenly self conscious about everything he had seen and heard since he arrived in the earth realm. A gross feeling spread through him as he thought about the people he had seen and met, wondering if Terra’s potion had actually been concocted to make him see exactly what she wanted him to see. Or Nik fabricating how he had ‘not truly comprehended the beginning until he came to live in the earth realm’. How much of it was fabricated? It was as if everyone was manipulating him to get him to do exactly what they wanted.

Everyone except Annalise.

She was the only one he did not have a suspicious feeling about. Her heart seemed so pure and true, it felt wrong to suspect her of anything malicious. But her good heart and desire for peace could get her into trouble someday, and the thought of that made the fire within him stir with anger. She needed someone whose heart was not so good and pure. Someone who would distrust everyone and wasn’t afraid to play dirty; otherwise, she wouldn’t survive.

He would stay with her until she gave Terra her song. He would be there to protect her until Terra had gotten what she wanted. Then, he would return home to his land, to rule his territories alongside his brothers. And he would support the princess’ bid to reunite the council of four… though such a plan still left out the part where he was to fulfill some sort of prophecy. But at the thought, Djac straightened up.

He would not be a part of anyone’s plan. He controlled his own destiny, and he was not about to fall in love with some princess just because a story said so.

Djac flicked the cigarette to the ground, and started back toward the banquet, ready to tell Annalise his plan.

 

[_Annalise_]

Ann scanned the horizon, her brows furrowing as she noticed the foliage becoming more sparse the further they traveled. It had been four days since they had left Andelese. Four days since the banquet. Gloved hands tightened upon the reins. Four days since Djac had let her know he would be leaving once they reached...wherever mother Terra was bloody taking them.
She forced her gaze forward, refusing the instinct to glance backward and check on him. He rode some rows back, with the healer who kept an eye on his leg, that 'whatever her name was' who had taken a keen interest in who everyone kept referring to as 'our fire prince'. Ann's nose wrinkled in consternation. It shouldn't matter. She needed it not to matter. Too much was at stake. The plan needed to succeed, the council of four put into place and then....and then what? There was always more, more things to plan for and fix and battle, more treasonous plans to snuff out. There would never be an end!

She stopped her horse abruptly and dismounted, walking away from the group. A moment to breath, to catch her breath, she felt the anger building within her chest and stumbled past the deadening brush, out of sight, ignoring the concerned call from Nikolas and the hurried orders to halt the others in their group.

Nik circled on his horse, one eye watching Annalise as he called for the guards to make camp for the night. "I have her." he spoke quietly to his wife before lowering himself to the ground and following after the princess's retreating form.

Hidden from view, she placed her hands on her knees and sucked in breath after breath to try and subside the feeling of suffocation. Unbidden, her mind leapt back to that last night in the halls of Terra's castle and the last conversation she had had with Djac.

"Princess..." He had spoken softly, formally, and Ann had known in an instant what he was going to say.

She turned from her place beyond the crushing throng of laughing people and found herself smiling gently up at him. "You don't have to say it...I know..." Her hand had lifted as though to pat his arm in reassurance, but she dropped it back down at her side and gave a shrug. "I cannot blame you in the least. I would do the same, I believe...if it were me in your position..."

Djac canted his head, staring at her silently a moment before speaking again "I need to tell you something...about the night we met..."

Ann shook her head emphatically and covered his mouth with her hand. "Please don't. It's been nice having someone to trust for a little while." Her lips twitched, "..You know, as nice as it could be while running for our lives... Let's not ruin it with truths..."

He took her hand and gently pulled it from his face. "Has anyone told you how maddening it is that you always try to get in the last word?"

A brow lifted and she flashed an innocent grin. "I haven't the faintest what you are talking about.."

They shared an awkward laugh, and silence descended upon them a few moments before Ann spoke again. "When?"

Djac glanced out at the scene before them. "I thought it best to wait until the song...but right after, I'll go."

Ann nodded again. "...Thank you, that's quite kind that you are staying that long..." She waited until he dropped his eyes back down at her before reaching up and hesitantly pulling the amulet from around her neck, gold and silver circles cradling what seemed to be a blue stone, intertwining in a pattern that looked eerily like a moving storm. Brushing her finger across it, she held it in her palm a moment before holding the chain up and bidding him to lean down so that she could place it over his head.

His hand picked it up to eye level, studying it before looking at her questioningly.

"It contains water from the sacred pools, deep within Crethea...if there comes a time where your lands need it, should we all fail in this...it should buy your people some time." Her hand closed his fingers over it. "But Djac....it comes at a cost. Should someone other than a water elemental use this...it will take part of you with it, part of your soul...so let it be a last resort." She waited until he nodded before dropping her hand from his and stepping away. "Goodnight...and Djac...don't tell the others about your leaving...I'll make them understand when the time comes." A simple curtsy was given and she turned away, walking towards the stairs before he could say more. ​

It was the last time she had spoken to him. She couldn't. 'Coward..." Ann muttered, wiping a hand across her clammy forehead.

"Princess?"

Ann grimaced. Could she not get a few moments to herself?! Straightening, she turned to find Nik striding through the brush she had come through moments before.

"Are you ill? Is everything alright?"

She found her temper exploding, unable to contain it any longer. "Does it look alright, Nik?" Her face reddened. "Every bloody time I turn around, someone wants a favor, a song, a promise. Not only does everyone want the council of four, but they want favors for assisting, promises for actions. It's all adding up! Why ever did I agree to have this...this song ready in a weeks time? I am not an elder! I do not know why you think I can do this!"

Nikolas' reached out a hand, attempting to calm her "The Fire Prince..."

Ann shoved his hands away. "What about the Fire Prince!? How is he going to help this?!" she yelled and then stalked away her voice lowering to a hiss in order to keep unwanted attention away from them. "I understand. I understand what you and Mother Terra believe...but NIK, you want me to willingly think that I can suddenly go from being promised to Aeolus, to being told it was up to me to bring the kingdoms together, to being told that Djac is some form of the blessed fire itself, AND that he and I formed earth together in another life, and all of a sudden it's going to be alright? Do you really think Aeolus is going to concede defeat that easily? That Djac is just going to walk in and fix everything with the snap of his fingers and a bright green flame?" Her blue eyes flashed. "You cannot put that on someone's shoulders! He was pulled into this without even a say. And not only that...'' she began to pace, "but do you really think that even if the mad king dies, that if I gain the throne and overthrow Aeolous, that the Wind Lord's are going to just accept that? We are going to need their help to even get to their brother, and just like everyone else in this...this absurd scheme, they are going to expect something in return. And what...what do you think that is going to be, Nikolas?" Her hands fisted at her side, her voice quaking with anger.

"Marriage." His voice was quiet.

"Marriage..." she confirmed. "You and Terra are trying to get two people, who are relative strangers, to form some kind of attachment to each other, when neither of them are free in the first place!"

"The fates never lie, Princess..."

A strained laugh was pulled from her, almost manic with the dark humor of it. "Fates? Fates?! I doubt Djac's brothers consulted them on their little...plan."

Nikolas' eyes narrowed. "What are you talking about?"

She straightened, staring off. "Every time I turned around, his brothers were intent on pushing the two of us together. It was obvious enough a child could have noticed."

"Do you know why?"

Her golden head dropped, a sigh pulling from her lips. "I think he attempted to tell me, at the banquet. But I didn't care to know."

"Didn't care? ...Or scared to find out?" He asked, watching as she shook her head adamantly.

"Tsk, tsk...have we walked into some sort of private conversation?" A lean man walked forward from the brush, trailed by two others.

Ann froze in place, the hair on the back of her neck standing, and she slowly turned to stare at Nikolas. "You bastard...." she whispered under her breath.

"I didn't do this...I swear it..."

Ignoring his plea, she inclined her head to the speaker. "Notus, Eurus...Zephryus..." she greeted the lords of the South, east and west winds, respectively. Their surly brother, Boreas, of the north wind was suspiciously absent. Almost unbelievably attractive, they were quite imposing, swirling grey eyes always searching, but the vision of them simply made Ann struggle to hold in her what little food she had eaten that day. "To what do I owe this....surprising visit?...."

Notus strode over with a sly smile and threw his arm around her, pulling her close. "Oh....we were simply checking on our charge. Big brother Aelous' orders, you see.. He was worried about you..."

Her stomach rolled and it took everything in her not to gag. Sidestepping away from his embrace, her eyes narrowed. "Oh, I am certain his concerns were for my wellbeing..." her tone was dry. "And where is Boreas? You lot rarely go anywhere without the rest..." She didn't know if she managed to keep her tone unconcerned, but she liked to keep all of them in view.

"Ohhhh, don't tell me the Princess is missing the elder of us? I am much better looking sweetling...." Zephyrus spoke slow and softly, stepping up into her space until she was forced to back up or touch him.

"I am just making sure you do not cause any havoc here. The earth realm has extended kindness to us, and I shan't have you ruining it with all of your....antics..."

"The Princess is otherwise occupied, my lords..." Nik interrupted.

The brother laughed, ignoring Nikolas who stared at them in disgust.

Ann couldn't believe this. Not only did she have to handle the riddles of the earth realm, finishing her promised song in time, and saying goodbye to, oddly enough, the only person in this horrid world she trusted, but now she would have to deal with them.

Eurus spoke from his crouched position upon a large rock. "We are simply here to help where we can, Princess. Your disappearance is causing more upheaval within the realms than I think you realize.... and your King's gaze has fallen upon the fire realms as responsible. Decisions are going to have to be made....soon."

She flashed a telling glance to Nik, who nodded and left. Djac would need to be told. "I've made a promise that I have to keep...and then...then....we will set the plan in motion. I need three days." Striding forward, she made her way back towards the group, where tents were already being set up and stopped before Terra's. Instinctively she knew Djac was there, but she dared not look at him for she knew Boreus was somewhere watching for anything amiss.

The brothers flanked her and Eurus spoke again. "We can give you two days. And what plan have you decided on?"

Ann lifted her chin, her eyes darkening in resolution. There was no other choice to be had now. Not with a war coming. "A wedding, of course."

They all stared at her stunned into silence, and she barely kept herself from rolling her eyes.

"How else do you think I am going to get close enough to my father now without him killing me outright when I show my face and hopefully effectively stopping the reason for the war he is so intent upon having." Unbidden, her eyes touched about Djac's face apologetically before facing Nikolas and Terra. "That.. That is how the fates works. It isn't the silly child's wishes you think it is. You have to give something to receive something. Now if you all will excuse me, my timeline has been shortened to two days, and may the gods save me if I am unable to meet a promise I've made." Her eyes narrowed pointedly before striding into the tent.

 

[Gray Sage]

The amulet rested coolly against Djac’s chest. He knew he should have refused such an offer, but he couldn’t find it in himself to turn it down. It was quite possibly the greatest gift he had ever received, and he had no intention of ever putting it to use. Especially after a warning like you may lose part of your soul.

The last few days had been less than comfortable for the fire element. He missed the dry heat of his homeland. The Earth realm’s air was full of water, and it clung to his forehead and neck. The bugs swarmed around him like little tyrants determined to rob him of his sanity. The beast they had given him to ride on had been not very cooperative for most of their journey, but what bothered him most was how he would find his eyes lingering on those blonde curls that swayed back and forth as they traveled through the forests and highlands of the earth realm.

Why did he even care? It wasn’t as if she was different from any other woman he had known. The treachery of the Earth realm had planted suggestions in his mind, and it was because of them that he began to question himself. Well, they would not be victorious over him.

“My lord?” a soft voice said beside him. Bianca looked at him curiously. “Are you alright?”

“I’m having a little trouble with his climate.” Djac fidgeted.

Suddenly, Annalise left her horse and disappeared into the thicket. Instinct told him to follow her, he was there to protect her after all, but reason reminded him that she didn’t need protection from Nik as he followed her, and it was entirely possible she was just leaving the group to stretch her legs.

“I believe the Princess makes a good point.” Terra declared to the caravan. “We have traveled long enough for the day, let us set up camp here.” Djac helped with some of the heavy lifting, pounding a stake into the ground, and heaving up the tarp. Terra’s tent was set up first, and just in time for Annalise to return with Nik and a group of strangers at her side.

Perplexed, Djac kept a watchful eye at the newcomers, fire ready at his fingertips, even though they had given no indication they were enemies.

The men prevented Annalise from entering the tent, which put him on edge. They offered Annalise two days and demanded to know her decision.

“A wedding, of course.” More confused than ever, Annalise shot Djac an apologetic look, but still, he didn’t like the sound of this agreement. He followed her into the empty.

“Your highness, may I have a word?” He spoke as soon as the flap came down. Immediately, the two strangers, Terra, and Nik tried to follow, but Djac snatched the flap of the tent and pulled it back down again to give him some privacy with the princess.

He hadn’t spoken to her in days, and he was a little on edge from the silence and the questions burning in his mind. Why hadn’t he had the courage to speak with her until this moment? Why had he been so hesitant to approach her?

“Would you mind explaining what that was all about?”

Annalise agitated around the empty tent. “Certainly. Those men you saw are the wind lords. It has long been proposed that I marry their brother Aeolus, and I’ve just accepted.” Annalise crossed her arms.

Djac’s jawed dropped. “So, let me get this straight: we’ve been wandering around in this overgrown maze for days, trying to reach a place for you to weave one of your songs, some old friends from the wind realm show up, so you decide it’s a good time for you to get married. That makes sense.”

“This decision doesn’t really concern you, Djac. I will do whatever it takes to prevent this war and save countless lives! You don’t know my father! You have no idea what I’ve just agreed to, and the good it will do not only the people of the Water and Air realms, but of the Fire realm too! And as I recall, you won’t be sticking around long enough to have a say in any of my decisions!”

Djac could tell she regretted saying it as soon as it left her mouth. “I didn’t mean that. I know you have responsibilities back home, and I don’t resent you going back there. I’m just…. I’m.” She took a moment to collect her thoughts and put on a brave and determined face. “I will decide my own fate. As you will decide yours. My marriage to Aeolus will mean preventing untold bloodshed. That’s an opportunity I must take.”

Djac stared at her. There was a lingering queasiness in his stomach, the thought of her marrying a stranger just for the sake of political gain. But she was right. She had every right to choose her own husband, and why should he care who that would be?

Djac bowed. He pulled the flap of the tent back gently, hiding every bit of irritation in his muscles, knowing they were being watched. He glanced at Terra and Nik who looked expectantly to be brought into the conversation. But Djac sauntered off, walking from the tent and through the brush that Annalise had disappeared into just awhile ago.

He walked on and on, the damp heat of the day only adding to his displeasure. His aimless path took him down hill toward a ravine. The beckoning sound of splashing water filled the air as he spotted a small pool which let out into a stream. Overheated and eager for a distraction, he started removing his clothes.

The cool mist of the waterfall began to titillate his skin, as more layers came off. When he got down to his trousers, he was left with the decision to take off the amulet Annalise had given him. He gazed at it. It was too valuable to lose or risk being stolen. A twig snapped to his left.

Bianca approached him slowly, a toying smirk on her face, twisting the stem of a heavy green leaf in her fingers. He should perhaps have been a little more modest, being left only in his undergarments before her, but he had never exactly been embarrassed by his toned muscles.

“I’ve been thinking about your disdain for the climate, and I remembered there’s a plant that grows in this forest. We use it in potions sometimes.” She looked down at the thick leaf in her hand. “It might help you cool off.” She came to a stop just a foot away from him.

Her palm slowly crushed the leaf in her fist, causing a transparent gel to ooze from its center. Her hand, covered in the clear sludge, lifted gingerly to his chest and smeared it over his skin. The cooling effect was instantaneous. The girl knew her stuff.

She moved her hand up over his shoulder and slowly up his neck, bringing a delightful relief to his sweating skin. He looked into her eyes, and she gazed back at him, making him realize all her bashful sincerity toward him up until that point, had been anything but. She knew exactly what she was doing. And what could he say? It was working.

Djac let out a frustrated sigh and kissed her. She abandoned the leaf to embrace his kiss, and the two started in on her clothes.

 

[_Annalise_]

She watched him leave, biting the inside of her cheek to keep from stopping him, the taste of copper filling her mouth. It was for the best. For all of them. Still…. Fingers lifted to touch her cheek and she stared down at the damp sheen showing upon the pads she pulled away. Tears?

“Boy troubles, princess?” The dry tone came from the corner and she swiped her arm hurriedly across her eyes to erase her emotion. “Boreas…” there was no mistaking his voice. “Why am I not surprised that you would encroach upon someone’s privacy. How utterly uncivil of you.” Her tone held a bite as she faced his approaching form. “How long were you there?”

“Long enough…” He bent to peer in her face. “Answer the question.”

Her eyes narrowed at the eldest wind lord, but she forced a flippant answer. The brothers could be territorial and the last thing she wanted was to cause anymore trouble to fall upon Djac. “No. No troubles. Now if you will excuse me. I need to speak with Nikolas.””

He stared hard at her a moment longer, dubious, but luckily for her sidestepped so that she could pass and open the flap, motioning Nikolas over. “How far is this site Terra is wanting me at?”

Nikolas glanced at his wife and back at the princess. “About an hour or so’s hard ride south. Not far at all.”

Ann nodded. “ I would like to go there first thing, if that is possible.”

“Of course it is possible.” Terra interjected. But for now, the food is about ready. Shall we all join together?” Terra touched her arm, watching her with a curious expression.

Ann shook her head absently, the smell of cooked food reached her senses, but her stomach rolled and she realized she wouldn’t be getting anything down tonight. “No…thank you. I beg your leave for the night. I’ve much to work on. ”

“Of course. Your tent is ready.” She thought she smiled, but walked away in a rather dazed state, to enter her own temporary abode where it was thankfully quiet. Only there, finally alone in the darkness, did she sink to the ground and allow the misery to wash over her.

The next morning came entirely to soon. A sharp rap upon the flap of her tent and a call roused her, and she raised her head from the pile of papers that had ended up as a pillow when she had become to tired to work any longer.

“Princess?” Nikolas called.

“Coming. Give me just a few moments…please.” Rising from the floor, she walked to the small basin and began her morning absolutions as quickly as she could. Once she was dressed in her simple tunic and pants, she ran a hand through her hair and hurried out, the scattered papers, filled with ancient runes, rustling gently behind her.

“Ready? He asked, bowing a formal greeting and at her questioning look, beckoned to the small group of people and horses getting ready nearby. “After some discussion, we decided that the main camp will remain behind. Once we get through the mountain pass, we won’t need to be worried about anyone being there anyway.”

Something in that struck her as odd, but she didn’t ask, instead, going rigid as her eyes lit upon Djac and Bianca who were mounting up next to the wind lords and Terra. Wrinkling her nose, she shot Nikolas a telling look.

“Now princess…”

She waved him off and strode to her own horse, donning gloves before mounting in one graceful movement. It would be fine. Truly. Just one more day.

“Fine morning, isn’t it my lovely princess?” Boreas and Notus flanked her side, the other two ahead of them. Behind her, Bianca’s giggle bespoke of some intimate moment with another, and she saw Zephyrus glance back. “Ahh, young love…”

Annalise aimed a murderous glare in his direction and nudged her horse into a trot, ignoring their raucous laughter. It was going to be a long, long day.

There wasn’t much time for talking though, Nikolas had been truthful when he had said it would be a hard ride. She was breathless by the time the reached the massive cliff wall and she stared up at it, lifting the hair up from the nape of her neck to hopefully find some relief as they stopped to rest a moment.

“We’ll have to leave the horses here, they won’t be able to go far into the crevice.” Terra spoke quietly, and Ann glanced over at her. The woman seemed unnerved, quite unlike her, and it sent a spark of wariness up her spine. Across her head, her gaze met Djac’s and it seemed he shared the same emotion, but he gave a faint nod to her and she took a deep breath, dismounting and securing her horse before following the others to the mouth. There would be no turning back now.

After a few moments conversation with the rest of the small group, it was decided that the majority of them would stay behind with the horses while Nikolas and Terra, along with Boreas, Annalise and Djac would continue on foot.

It didn’t take long for Annalise to figure out why only a few of them proceeded forward. After some minutes, the walls became more narrow, causing them to sidestep every few feet, until they were completely closed in from overhead, throwing them into darkness. She struggled with the feeling of claustrophobia, and as Boreas ducked to fit through the ever tightening tunnel, she paused, placing her hands on the cool stone and sucking in deep mouthfuls of air.

Behind her, she heard Djac stop, and after a moment, touch her shoulder.

“I don’t think it much longer, your highness.”

She shook her head, refusing to open her eyes. “I can’t….” Ahead of them, she heard Boreas alert Nikolas to her absence, and the call of their names.

“We will be along shortly. Just catching our breath.” Djac answered for her, and she found herself once again grateful for his presence. He shifted at her back, and she felt his hand grasp her own, tightly.

“You can do this. Just like we made it through the shadows. Don’t let go and keep moving. Find the light.”

Ann felt herself nodding. “Just like in the shadows…” Swallowing, she clutched his hand tightly and ducked her head to move forward after Boreas. “Find the light…” Not much longer. It couldn’t be much longer.

It seemed like ages. She would have gladly laid down and died right there if it was for Djac continuously nudging her forward. Bloody earth realm. But finally, finally a sheen of light. Ann found her eyes adjusting and moved forward at a faster clip, now eager to find the end of their journey. However she wasn’t prepared for the sight that met them as they stepped out of the crevice and into what felt like an open bowl, above, the cliff celling looming over them like a protective canopy, giving shelter to the stark view ahead.

A wasteland. She had no other word for it. The ground, that should have been a valley of lush green grass was stark white and cracked. There was no breeze, no sound of life, and a white haze loomed across the sky, thick enough that the sun couldn’t even pierce through. There was a hollow pit before them, and she realized it used to be a pool of water, feeding the valley, but glancing overhead, there wasn’t even a droplet of water to indicate that a waterfall used to spill into it from above.

It was…without any elements. Fear shook her body. This was the worst she had ever seen. Glancing at the small group, she saw the same expressions mirrored across the faces of Djac and Boreas, only Nikolas seemed unsurprised, as he held his quaking wife, who refused to let go of the rock wall. He met her gaze steadily. “There was no way to tell you. You had to see it for yourself. We won’t be able to go any further now. It will pain her too badly…”

A brow lifted, but she refrained from making a remark, instead staring back out at the land. ‘Is that…is that a tree?’ the whisper left her lips as she stepped forward, Djac’s hand sliding from her own.

The mighty trunk towered above the ground that used to feed it. Slowly decaying, it’s hull a mix of black and white, the pulsing veins struggling to remain alive even while it’s own body rotted around them. She walked towards it slowly, grief and pain swirling in her womb, as though she was watching a child struggle before her. The limbs above, probably once so full of graceful green folliage dancing in the wind, contained just one browning leaf, like bones unwilling to let go the final warmth of skin.

“My gods…” her voice sounded hollow, and as her hands touched the cool remains, she pressed her forehead to it in apology. “She’s been abandoned.” Fighting against tears, she felt her toe hit something jutting from the ground and glanced down, seeing a single root stubbornly shooting towards the mouth of the cave, where it disappeared into the unforgiving rock. It’s final attempt to live.

“Are you ready to return, Princess? Now that you have seen it?” Boreas called from several feet away. He was looking at the tree in a mixture of horror and disgust.

Her face registered surprise and she began to shake her head adamantly. “No.” She glanced to Djac who had followed her. “I cannot leave yet. I cannot abandon her. Not until I can help somehow.”

“What are you suggesting?” Djac asked, in what she assumed was a mixture of disbelief and resignation.

“You all can go back. I will finish preparing for tomorrow right here.”

He matched her stubborn gaze for several moments before heaving a sigh and looking back to the rest. “We can set a small camp here for the night.”

“Not without me, you’re not.” Boreas grumbled and Djac looked as though he was struggling against rolling his eyes.

“Fine...” He glanced to Nikolas, who opened his mouth seemingly to argue, but deciding better of it, simply nodded.

“When do we need to arrive tomorrow, Princess?”

“Dawn.” She spoke after a moment, absently, lost in other thoughts.

Nodding once again, Nikolas moved to usher a shaking Terra back within the mountain. “I’ll send someone with supplies.”

As Boreas moved to search for a suitable place for camp, Ann knelt at the base of the tree and closed her eyes, bending to place her hands on the ground. Silence. Deep resounding silence. No sound of life at all from the dormant elements below.

Continuing her connection, she spoke to Djac, who she felt lingering nearby. “This is not good…”

He knelt next to her. “What have you found?”

“Death.” She spoke softly, furrowing her brows in concentration. “The greed of our forefathers have severed the elements connection. They have all fled. A simple cajoling song is not going to work.”

“Then what now?”

She opened her eyes and looked at him. “Well…I think…it’s going to have to be a conversation. A promise….a, a blood oath. I am going to have to find someway to call on the ancient elders and convince them to help, and…I don’t know if I’m strong enough to do it.”

And if she failed…she wasn’t sure what would happen next.

Later that evening, right before dusk, Boreas eased himself down in front of the makeshift campsite next to Djac. His eyes moving to alight upon Annalise who had yet to move from the tree. She sat kneeling there, eyes closed, her lips moving in soft murmurs that did not carry to their ears. “This seems like a waste of time.” He muttered. “What do you think she’s doing out there?”

Djac crossed his ankles and leaned back against the cliff wall, cutting his eyes to Boreas momentarily. “I do not pretend to be privy to her highness’s thoughts.” He brought a leaf roll to his lips and inhaled.

Boreas scoffed. “You cannot expect me to believe that. You two seem….close.” He watched curiously as Djac faced him then, curious at the dark irritation that crossed the others features.

“What are you implying?”

A smirk crossed the wind lords lips. “Oh nothing, really. Only that she seems more connected to you than how I’ve seen her with others…that’s all.”

“Your asinine assumptions say a lot more about you than it does her. Seems to me you don’t know her well at all.”

Boreas snorted. “I know enough to be concerned. Wondering what part you have in all of this.” His eyes narrowed and he held a bottle to his lips, taking a long drink. “I was surprised when she spoke her plan of marrying Aeolus. That wasn’t what had been discussed…before.”

Djac’s brow lifted, but he said nothing.

“Seems to me, it’s your doing.”

“You have lost your mind. How much of that have you drunk?”

“Not enough to kill my misery in this godsforsaken place.”

The fire element scoffed. “Right.”

“No, truly. Isn’t that why you have been following her? To see how she can stop the bloodshed happening in your lands, as we speak?”

Djac froze, the leaf halfway to his lips. “What the hell are you talking about?”

Boreas had the forethought to look surprised. “You didn’t know? That’s what we came to tell her. Her father is using her disappearance for reason to wage war against your kingdom. And so instead of continuing with the thought that we were going to build a stronger rebellion, which will take quite some time yet, she is going to marry our brother, who is about as sadistic as the water king, because Aeolous is the only one who has any pull with her father.” He motioned to her with the hand that held the bottle. “So you tell me, fire lord…. Why is she doing it? Is it guilt? Responsibility? Or unrequited love…” The wind lord laughed. “and I say unrequited, because you would have had to be blind not to have noticed that little healer traipsing after you last eve, and you two returning together some time later thus…perhaps not love..on your part at least.” His smile turned cold. “So yes…forgive me, but I am curious…who are you, and what part do you play that is so important, that it makes her drop every last common sense, and jump into a marriage that could possible destroy everything we have built thus far…”

 

[Gray Sage]

The tiny passageway they walked was cold and imposing. Djac felt cramped, a tight pressure in his chest as they walked. He was used to wide open spaces, the expanse of the desert. Bloody earth realm...

But Annalise’s ragged breathing somehow made him find the strength in himself. This was no time to be distracted by his own fears. He needed to be strong, otherwise they would have come all that way for nothing. Taking her hand, he found the same warmth he had when they were lost in the shadows, and in the memory of that impossible escape, he knew they could conquer the walls that weren’t really closing in on them.

Djac was tempted to use his fire to light up the space, but he could tell the flames in his veins were growing weak. He needed to conserve what energy he had left for a potential threat, at least until he could recharge, and drink in an inferno.

He felt relieved, at first, when there was a light in the distance, taking them to their long awaited destination. Then he saw the desolation.

He had taken for granted just how lush and beautiful the earth realm was as they traveled. The parched land before him was disturbing. Heartbreaking. Even the wilderness of his youth seemed more alive than this place. How had the world come to be so barren? So dead?

It wasn’t until Annalise inquired about the tree did he realise he was still holding her hand. He dropped it immediately, hoping everyone else was distracted by the wasteland as he was. He watched Annalise move toward the tree. The sad, pitiful tree which was beyond help, a symbol of the dead land beyond.

Djac looked on Annalise with sympathy. It was as if she felt the pain of the earth itself. He wondered at her intimate connection, how the compassion was so stirred in her heart. He wished some of her pain could be his, could be all of theirs, that there was some way to lessen her grief and fear. He had a feeling, though, that she had to face this on her own. She had to be the one to experience it, and to brave the challenge it posed.

But summoning the ancient elders? How could such a task be accomplished? Was Annalise really so strong as to make such a connection? Someone with that mind power and strength of will and character, surely only such a one could be born every century, maybe even millenium.

A chill crawled up his arms as he looked at the princess. What if she was the exact prophetess she had just described? What if she was capable of such a feat and more? If she was able to make contact with them, to unite the elements, to heal the land that was already dead, she would be more than any of them had bargained for. The little naive princess he was tasked with seducing and manipulating would be a hero for the rest of time. A legend. A divine deliverer.

He backed away from her as she knelt by the tree. If she succeeded, people would follow her to the ends of the earth. Legions from all the realms would obey her every command, lay down their lives for her, change the world in her name. The prophecy she had recited back in Andelese was starting to frighten him now. What if it was all true?

An image flashed in his imagination of Queen Annalise, radiant as the sea. She stood over a people, fervent with devotion toward her. A determination in her icy eye that could kill. She was majestic. The skies swirled with water, fire blew in the wind, and the earth was strong at her feet.

This is all assuming she can even do what she’s setting out to accomplish. His mind argued with him, trying to rationalize a way out of the fear he had just backed into. There is no guarantee that she can even make the connection.

And if she can’t, she could kill herself in the attempt.

Djac’s blood ran cold. He shook his head clear of these thoughts. He reminded himself that he did not believe in fate holding life in its grasp. He was not bound to this prophecy, and Annalise had a good head on her shoulders. She knew what she was getting into, and his imaginings were not going to put her in any more or less danger than she already was.

Djac distracted himself with the supplies when they arrived. He and Boreas shuffled things around until they had a decent camp. Annalise remained silent for a long time. He did not disturb her. She was processing everything going on in that head.

Boreas’ must have missed the sound of his own voice, as he broke the silence to ask Djac impertinent questions. His assumptions about his relationship with the princess were annoying enough. His doubt in Annalise’s abilities were irritating. But, what bothered him the most was Boreas’ questioning why Djac was there. Mostly because… he didn’t have much of an answer. Why was he still by Annalise’s side? He wanted to protect her, yes, but it was not as if she wasn’t capable. She had no use for a fire element in weaving a song. She had no use for a Fire realm Lord in her diplomatic games. She had no use for him.

When Boreas talked of the Fire realm, Djac’s stomach turned sour. Homesickness washed over him like a disease, and an immense guilt perturbed his mind. What was he doing here? The water king had declared war on his people. Everything he and his brothers were hoping to avoid. Djac knit his eyebrows.

“You said, her father has waged a war because she disappeared? How did he mobilize his troops so quickly? She hasn’t been missing long enough for word to have reached her father and for him to form a plan of attack against the fire realm.”

Boreas chuckled, a condescending, mirthless laugh. “She was right, you really don’t know her father.” Djac’s eyes narrowed, remembering Annalise’s comment which she had supposedly said to him in private. “Not only was her father looking for any excuse to attack your people, already having warriors on retainer,” Boreas continued, “but I think two weeks is more than enough time for him to initiate a war, don’t you?” Boreas turned on his side, settling down to sleep.

“Two weeks?” Djac whispered in disbelief.

“Yes. I suppose time really flies when you’re wandering around in the Earth realm.” Boreas yawned.

Two weeks. But they had been in Agnihar only a few days ago...

Djac looked to Annalise who sat quietly in meditation. The shadow realm had displaced more than their location. They had spent days and days in the shadow realm without realizing it. And look what it had done to his home. He wondered if Annalise had had this revelation yet, or if she was just as in the dark about their absence as he was.

He would have to return, and soon. His people needed him. They needed strong leaders who cared about their wellbeing. He needed to find his brothers to fight alongside them, against the vicious and unlawful attacks of the water kingdom, and trust that Annalise’s political movements would eventually mean the removal of King Einar’s men.

Djac settled down in his bedroll, looking at Annalise. He and Boreas had set up a place for her to sleep, but Djac had the feeling that she would not move from that spot all night.

With anxiety plaguing his mind, and the stars hidden by the burdened sky, Djac tried to sleep.

***

Bianca stood facing the window, looking out over a city that Djac didn’t recognize. He walked up behind her and snaked his hand around her waist. She leaned into him, melting at his touch. Djac’s lips caressed her neck, her scent intoxicating. Her hand hooked his jaw, pulling him closer until their lips finally met in a passionate kiss. Djac’s arms tightened around her, his zeal taking over his senses. She was captivating.

He moved to untie her bodice, and pulled back to catch his breath. Annalise gazed back at him, breathless. He startled, though every ounce of him wanted to continue. Then he heard a laugh.

Djac whipped around to the corner of the room, where Boreas stood, his arms crossed in a jovial expression. “It all makes sense now! She isn’t infatuated with you, you’re infatuated with her! You've been following her around like a lost puppy, and your little tryst with the healer was nothing but a pathetic attempt to move on!” Boreas doubled over in laughter, “And now, now she agrees to marry Aeolus in the hopes of kicking you off her heel!” Boreas’ laughs cut through Djac’s mind like a whip. He was mortified. He looked to Annalise but she had disappeared.

Djac ran across the room, throwing a mean right hook at Boreas’ face, but his fist went through Boreas’ ghostlike figure, and the sensation of falling seized him.

Djac jolted awake, a cold sweat on his neck and back. Djac sat up, out of breath, when a dastardly chuckle sounded to his left.

Boreas too had just stirred from sleep, and Djac looked at his face just in time to read his expression and realize what had happened.

Djac leapt through the space between them like a lion in attack, the two of them rolling several feet away from where they slept. Fire rushed out his hands as they closed around Boreas’ neck, but he held back their biting power, effortlessly, just as he had done with Annalise.

Djac seared into Boreas’ frightened eyes. “If you EVER walk in my dreams again, I will unleash this fire onto every last inch of your flesh!” Djac jerked Boreas’ neck in the chokehold he held, “Do you understand me?!”

Boreas nodded, unable to speak as his windpipe was currently sealed. Djac threw him down. Storming through the cliff and back toward the crevice where they had first journeyed through.

“Djac, what’s going on?” Annalise’s alarmed voice called after him. He glanced back at her, a strange shame washing over him just to look at her. More furious than ever now that the scuffle had broken her concentration, Djac didn’t answer her, and disappeared into the hollow passageway.