Chapter Text
Two men sat in a dimly lit room looking over ancient scrolls. Both read silently, searching for cryptic answers recorded by generations past. The candles gradually burned low, but still they continued. Finally, in the early hours of the morning, one man let out a cry of triumph. He held up the scroll to his companion.
“This confirms it! The eclipse is real and will happen. Soon.”
The other man frowned in concentration, years of planning flashed through his mind. “I don’t know if we’ll have everything ready in time. Several of the missing pieces still haven’t been located. It’s possible we’re already too late for the ones that haven’t been seen in decades.”
Leaning back in his chair, the first man gripped a golden staff tightly. The shift sent silver refractions scattering around as the large diamond mounted on top caught the waning light. “There’s no alternative. Everything must be ready. This will be the only chance I have.”
“It’s still unknown if anyone can survive such a transformation.”
The man smirked. His hand left the staff and drifted over the image of an ornate lamp etched onto one of the scrolls. “If it comes to that I have another ace planned that will get me what I need.”
“But if your attempt fails everyone will know what you’re trying to do.”
“I just have to play my cards right-” The man’s eyes gleamed in the sputtering flames, “and soon the whole world will be mine.”
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Ch 1-
Kai sat on the windowsill staring at the world before him. The sun’s first rays peaked over the eastern dunes, turning the brick homes and shops clustered together dark gold.
A gentle breeze tugged at him and the strip of ragged cloth that served as a curtain. Kai savored the moment. The cool of the night would last only a few more minutes before the full force of the desert sun bore down on the city.
Muted sighing came from behind him. Glancing backwards, Kai saw his younger siblings still asleep in the corner. Though the day needed to get under way, he let them sleep for a few minutes more. Anything to delay the hunger pangs that would grip them upon awakening.
Nya rolled in her sleep, taking the blanket with her and leaving Cade uncovered. The younger boy grunted, unconsciously reaching for the covering. Kai laughed quietly, but the sound died in his throat when a sunbeam fell directly on Cade.
Illuminated by the light, the roots of Cade’s hair glowed a bright blond- starkly contrasting the reddish brown coloring the rest of it. Frowning, Kai knew- without looking- they were still without henna after the last dyeing. The only other alternative never went over well. He rubbed his temples. Might as well get it over with.
To decrease arguing time Kai scooped several handfuls of sand into a bottle. Then he poured water over the sand until he made a thin mud. Clay from the walls was added until the container held a reddish brown paste. Walking over to the pair Kai pulled the blanket away with a flourish. He was met with synchronized groans.
“Hey kiddos. Time to rise and shine.”
“Five more minutes.” Nya muttered, rolling away from Kai.
“Sorry, no can do.”
“Ka-ai. It’s too early to be up.” Cade made grabbing motions for the blanket. His hands froze when he saw the bottle in Kai’s grasp. “No. Not today.” The boy furrowed his eyebrows in an attempt to look menacing- but it had more of the effect of a growling puppy.
“Nope. You have to today. I can see the lighter hair coming up. And you know if I’m able to see it, others can too.”
“But it’s disgusting.” Cade whined.
“It’s keeping you safe and you know it.”
Cade frowned but didn’t have a comeback for the true statement. “Fine.”
He reached up and Kai handed him the bottle. With more grumbling than necessary he began to smash the mixture onto his scalp. Slowly his hair took on a more even red color.
Knowing she wouldn’t fall back asleep, Nya sat up and rubbed her eyes. “What’s the plan for today?”
“Namely finding something to eat.”
Cade’s hands froze and he frowned. “We don’t have anything for breakfast?”
Kai raised a cocky eyebrow. “Not yet .” The boy rolled his eyes but didn’t bother responding. “We need food and-”
“-More dye.” Cade sourly put in.
“Yes,” Kai drew out the word, “I’ll try to get more.”
“Good because I am not doing this tomorrow.”
Biting his tongue to keep from shooting off a response Kai turned to his sister. “Nya you were planning on heading back to the shop, right?”
She nodded. “Jay and I think we might get our newest project done today. If we do, and it works, this might be the break we all need.”
‘That would be helpful.’ Kai didn’t voice his thoughts, but a dangerous spike of hope rose within him. “Okay. Cade, get ready to go.”
“Ugh can’t I go with you today? They make me get stuff so they can make kissy faces at each other.”
“Cade!” Nya’s cheeks turned bright red.
Though aware of his sister’s relationship with the young inventor, Kai couldn’t help the disapproving frown that spread across his face. “Maybe Nya and Jay can play less kissy face, but regardless you are going with Nya today.”
“But Kaiiiiiiiiii-” Cade dragged his name out.
Setting his jaw, Kai glared at Cade. “You said you wanted more dye. That’s at the docks. There’s no way in the Realm you’re coming there with me.”
A sullen look fell over Cade’s face but he didn’t respond. Kai felt a little guilty for pulling that card, legitimate that it was.
“You’ve been helpful at the shop and I know today you will be too.” Kai gave both his siblings a pointed stare. They mumbled their assent. “Good. Keep your eyes out for food on your way. Since it’ll take me a while to get to the docks I don’t have time to find something for us. But make sure you’re both back before dark.”
Nya rolled her eyes. “We’re not five.”
“I know, I know. Just be careful okay?”
Cade snorted and set down the jar of dirt. “When aren’t we?”
It was Kai’s turn to roll his eyes. “Let’s keep it that way. Come here so I can check your head.” Dragging his feet Cade moped his way to Kai. A quick inspection showed no visible blond hair. “Looks good.”
“I could have told you that.”
“Uh huh, sure. Now get going.”
Nya finished her morning routine and steered Cade toward the door. The boy scampered from the room but Nya turned back to face Kai. “Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. I’ll keep my eyes on him.”
Without another word she also left. Kai stared at the empty doorway for several extra seconds. Even though he had, for years now, sent them out alone, anxiety as to what they could face gnawed at him. ‘They’ll be fine.’ He reassured himself.
There wasn’t any more time to waste on what if’s. He had errands to run.
Once he was sure Nya and Cade were on their way, Kai walked to the corner holding their few possessions. His eyes locked on a brick with practiced familiarity. Digging it out of the wall he turned it over to reveal a hollow center. One silver coin rested inside.
Kai stared at it for a moment, internally weighing how much food he could buy with it. But, with forceful finality, Kai wrapped his fist around the coin. Cade’s safety trumped hunger any day. Grabbing his worn cloak Kai wrapped it around his shoulders and slipped into the day.
The streets were beginning to bustle with people- merchants hawking their wares, laborers heading to work, children running the streets. Kai drifted among them, blending in with the crowd. Many people pressed in close. Kai kept a tight grip on his coin. This environment would be perfect for pickpockets and thieves. Kai would know- he’d often used it to his own advantage over the years. But now was not the time to score another prize. Here especially people had reason to look over their shoulders.
Heavy footfalls thumped on the ground. Men and women scattered as guards clothed in black with red snakes embroidered on the back marched down the road. Kai gripped his cloak and ducked around a corner. Shouts came at some unlucky soul who didn’t get out of the way in time. The crack of wood on flesh followed by an anguished cry resounded.
Kai clenched his fists, but the need for self preservation had long since squashed any thoughts of intervening where the King’s guards were concerned.
The seconds dragged on as Kai waited. Gradually the ruckus faded and the general commotion of normal life returned. After an additional minute Kai carefully resumed his trek.
Eventually shabby hawkers booths gave way to sturdy wood. Kai’s worn cloak drew more glances, but he wasn’t any worse for wear than the sailors filling the docks. Merchants called out their wares- imported cottons, silks, jewelry, fruits. But the added value of imports brought about an added number of soldiers.
Kai held his breath as the fifth patrol in almost as many minutes stalked past him. Casually Kai sauntered to a booth and pretended to look at the jewelry it held. The tender, a woman with graying hair, gave him a sharp frown. Her eyes cut knowingly between him and the guards.
“If you’re not going to buy, get out of my customer’s way.”
Ducking his head in outward meekness Kai continued on. A quick glance over his shoulder showed the guards were no longer present.
He walked through the docks. The most expensive booths were housed on the outer ring of the wharf. Items value, and merchant’s social station, decreased closer to the loading docks. However, there was one small booth that seemed to stand apart from the rest. Not from proximity- it was placed in the fringes of the outer ring- but dark wood and subdued colors of the jars on the table didn’t encourage gawking unless a purchase was going to be made. Kai’s grip tightened one last time on the coin before he walked purposefully to the booth.
“Brann, I thought you had left me for another.” A deep rich voice called out to Kai.
Kai scoffed, unable to catch a glimpse of the owner. “Why would I do that Tynan? You’re the best supplier I know.”
“Oh the jokes, you know I am the only one to carry such fine mixtures.” Almost as if he appeared from the shadows, a tall man with darker skin than Kai’s stood behind the table. His black clothes only helped to accent his mysterious aura. “Only one of your standing can appreciate such quality.” Tynan grinned, gold and ivory teeth gleaming.
“A compliment?” Kai placed a hand over his heart. “If I didn’t know better I’d say you were going soft.”
The older man gave him a halfhearted glare. “Did you come to browse or to mock a poor old man?”
Rolling his eyes Kai set the coin on the table. “Neither poor nor old describe you, but I will have the usual.”
The coin disappeared quick as a blink and a small clay jar stood in its place. “The finest henna for you. Hope it serves you well and remember, even miracles can take a little time.” Tynan’s level stare cut Kai straight to the core.
“Thanks.” Scooping up the jar, Kai gave a nod and rejoined the crowds.
Kai had long since given up wondering how Tynan seemed to know the things he did. He was never sure if the man’s knowledge kept him from asking questions, or if he just made it his business not to ask. Whatever the reason it’d led to a mutually beneficial relationship over the last few years. ‘ Though ,’ Kai reflected as he patted his flat pockets grimly, ‘Tynan seems to have the better end of the deal.’ Having tried once to steal the precious liquid, that wasn’t a mistake he ever planned to repeat. Yet for whatever reason Tynan chose mercy. An action Kai didn’t understand but was thankful for- more for his siblings’ sake than his own.
“Well what have we here?”
A menacing voice broke Kai out of his thoughts. He jerked his head up to see four dirty men surrounding a beggar a few yards away. Though he didn’t plan on stepping in, Kai's eyes trailed the scene. His blood froze when one man picked up the beggar. The man’s sleeve had fallen past his elbow and a grimy tattoo of a blue snake became visible. Turning his back, Kai walked as fast as he could in the opposite direction.
‘Cade is never joining me here.’ Any guilt Kai had felt about saying no that morning completely vanished.
Kai didn’t breathe easy until he was a half hour away from the docks. Even then he had to force himself not to continually look over his shoulder. Drawing undue attention to himself right now wouldn’t help anything. It was another hour, nearly midday, when Kai made it back to the broken building serving as home. Practically collapsing on his mat, Kai leaned against the wall.
He didn’t know why seeing some of the Hypnobrai today shook him so badly. It was far from the first time he’d been near the gang members. Maybe because he really had wanted to say yes to Cade this morning? The thoughts of how that might have resulted weren’t ones Kai wanted to dwell on.
Forcing himself upright Kai set the jar next to their other supplies. Kai frowned at the corner. Time to get out of whatever funk this was and get back out on the streets. They all needed to eat today.
So Kai took a quick sip of water and walked back outside. The heat slapped him in the face. Sighing, Kai pulled his hood back over his head to ward off the sun. The action also helped conceal his face. Anonymity greatly increased the chances of survival in his line of ‘work’.
Heading south Kai waited until he was a couple miles away from home to start finding something for dinner. Market stalls boasted varieties of fruits, nuts and meats. Kai passed many of the flashier booths without a second glance. But, here and there, his hand snagged a few walnuts from one stand. A couple figs from another soon joined them in his pockets. Kai was just about to start for home when his ears caught a nearby conversation.
“-emental coming to the palace!” One woman excitedly told her companion.
“What’s so special about that?” The dismissive tone was heavy in the other woman’s voice.
“My cousin works there, and she said he’s supposed to be the Earth Elemental!”
Kai felt his eyes widen at that statement.
“What?!” Apparently he wasn’t the only surprised one. “ If that’s true he’s going to be treated like a prince.”
“That’s the thing he’s already a prince.”
“If that’s true what’s he doing coming here of all places? You know what people have been saying-”
“-Shush!”
The first woman shot a furtive glance around the plaza. Kai quickly looked away. Seconds later he felt the weight of someone’s eyes on him. He meandered off but his mind spun with questions.
Why would a legendary Elemental choose this dust bowl to visit? Though given his double status, whoever the guy was he could probably do whatever he wanted and no one would question it.
‘Another jerkface who can waltz in and exploit us more.’ In the desert the Earth Elemental would be a force to behold. Kai’s stomach churned at the thought of him partnering with the king.
Trumpets blared nearby. Kai scurried toward the sound only to catch a glimpse of a black haired young man riding atop a beige gelding. Two guards rode before and behind him but he had no other entourage. Frowning Kai watched the small procession disappear in the direction of the palace. ‘I wonder what this’ll mean for the rest of us.’
Notes:
Thanks for checking this story out :) New (familiar) characters to come in ch 2 ;)
Chapter Text
Skylor twirled a staff in front of her. In one swift motion she jabbed at her opponent’s torso. The tall man stepped back, raising his own staff. The wood met with a loud crack. Undeterred Skylor dropped back a pace.
Holding her guard up she and her opponent circled, watching for an opening. Skylor leapt forward again. She swung her staff but the blow glanced off her attacker’s left vambrace, his stance hardly showing he’d just deflected a hit. The man turned to the side and retaliated with a blow to Skylor’s ribs. It was too fast for Skylor to dodge completely. She gasped in pain, the blow connecting hard despite the leather armor she wore.
Anger pulsed within her and she planted the staff on the ground. Throwing her weight onto it she lifted off, aiming a flying kick at his torso. He shifted sideways, exiting Skylor’s line of vision. Before she could react a crack resounded. Her staff jerked sideways beneath her. Losing her grip and balance Skylor fell hard onto the floor, the staff rolling several feet away. Winded she could only stare at the wood inches from her chest. Rolling her eyes in defeat she tapped the ground. The staff was quickly replaced by a hand.
Cool blue eyes met her brown ones. “You’re getting better, Princess.”
Skylor’s scoff echoed through the cement room, but she took his hand. “And yet you continually get the best of me, Captain Zane.”
“I simply have had more practice than you, Your Highness.” The platinum haired man stated matter of factly. “And if I may say; from failure we learn, from success... not so much.”
Sighing, Skylor left her staff on the mat and walked to a pitcher of water sitting in the corner of the room. A male servant scurried to place the discarded weapon on its rack along the wall as Skylor took a cup offered to her by Zane. In a rare moment of abandon she tipped the cup over her brow and let the cold water wash over her.
Zane stood to the side until she finished before pouring a glass for himself. He sipped it, his cool countenance hardly giving off the appearance he’d just been sparring.
Giving him an appraising stare, Skylor took a second glass. “It continues to amaze me that the heat doesn’t bother you.”
The young man shrugged. “I’m afraid neither of us will know the answer to that. At least not any time soon.” He ruefully tapped his temple.
Skylor nodded. His fair skin and fairer hair- a rarity in Ouroboros- gave the impression that he was a northerner. Such a lineage would make his resistance to the heat that much more impressive. However, having suddenly appeared outside the castle a few years earlier with a severe case of amnesia, they weren’t able to get any clear answers. Instead of leaving him to wander, King Chen allowed Zane to join the royal guard.
“Rematch?”
Before Zane could answer a knock came from the door. Zane answered it and Skylor heard an indistinct female’s voice. With a nod of thanks- and was that a small smile???- Zane dismissed the servant.
“Unfortunately, Your Highness, our time has run its course. Your father wishes for your presence in the throne room within the half hour.”
Throwing her sweaty braid over her shoulder, Skylor barely managed to hold in a huff. “I’d best get ready then.”
She didn’t wait for an answer before exiting the room. The dull gray bricks of the spare training room gave way to deep gold walls lined with elaborate carpets and paintings exported from the far reaches of the Realm. Servants scurried out of her way as she strode down the hall.
Skylor felt the looks many of them threw her way, but she’d been used to that even before adamantly ‘requesting’ weapons training. What good was a princess who couldn’t defend herself? The king eventually saw the logic in her argument- or became worn out by the constant request- and allowed for the one on one training with Zane. Though the novelty of a disheveled princess had lessened in the last year, it still provided the servants with something to gossip about. Pretending she didn’t notice, Skylor kept her chin high and pace even.
It took several minutes to reach her rooms on the opposite side of the castle. There were faster ways, but using Smoke to teleport in her current state would only put her to sleep. Something inside her warned Father wouldn’t be pleased with that. Whatever this was about she needed to be fully present.
The door to her apartments was already open when she reached it. Skylor strode through to a flurry of activity. Several of her ladies in waiting ran about the room. Some carried trays with food, silks, and Skylor could have sworn at one point she even saw a live chicken before the girl turned a corner.
“What is going on here?”
The use of Sound had the desired effect. Everyone froze where they were. Yet no one seemed willing to speak up.
“Well?” Skylor tapped her foot on the ground.
“Your Highness,” A voice came from behind Skylor.
Skylor turned to see her personal maid holding a stack of papers in her hands.
“Chamille, I’m expecting there to be an excellent reason for this.”
The young woman curseyed, her purple dress swaying with the motion. “If you’ll come with me I can explain.”
Noise picked up behind them as Chamille led Skylor to her bedroom. The deep reds and oranges of her bed covers and curtains normally produced a soothing effect on Skylor when she entered, but now she felt on the verge of ‘seeing red’. The ornate yellow evening gown on her bed did not help the situation.
“Chamille-”
“Skylor.” Replying in the same tone, Chamille pushed back strands of her black hair that had fallen into her eyes. Her signature metal bracelets clinked with the action.
Their serious expressions only lasted a few more seconds before both girls began to laugh. Skylor shook her head.
“What is this all about?’
Some of the mirth left Chamille’s face. “There’s been several gifts brought here for you in the last hour. His Majesty wishes to explain it to you in the throne room.”
Skylor’s smile dropped at Chamille’s use of her father’s title. “That serious?”
Nodding Chamille picked up a pitcher and poured water into a bowl. She offered it and a rag to Skylor. Carefully Skylor splashed water on her face and dried it with a towel Chamille offered. Without proper time for a bath that was about as clean as she was going to get. Chamille helped her dress then made quick work of putting Skylor’s hair in a braided updo. In just under ten minutes Skylor had transformed from the sweaty warrior in training to the picture of poise and elegance.
Skylor trailed the image of herself in the mirror. She wasn’t unfamiliar with her appearance but the drastic change that had just taken place left her... hollow. The girl in the mirror knew the correct times to smile, to make small talk or be a gracious host, but Skylor’s fingers twitched for the feeling of the staff in her hands.
“Your Highness...” Chamille softly broke Skylor out of her thoughts.
“Let’s not keep Father waiting.”
Squaring her shoulders, Skylor marched out the door. If any of the servants stared this time, Skylor was oblivious. Her feet led her subconsciously to the throne room as questions filled her mind. ‘To leave me so little warning can’t be a good sign. Either something has just happened or he didn’t want to give me time to prepare...’ Skylor was inclined to lean toward the former, considering the king remained well informed of his daughter’s training schedule. ‘But that begs the question of what happened that would require a royal reception... or at least one requiring my reception.’
Two large golden doors came into view. No more time for questions. Taking a small breath Skylor nodded to the man standing at their side. The doors swung open with a creak.
“Her Royal Highness, Princess Skylor.”
Skylor’s eyes swept the room. The familiar red pillars sitting on their bronze bases lined a red carpeted walkway. At the end of which sat the King on an elevated dais. Behind him vaulted windows gave an impressive view to the immaculate gardens in the courtyard below.
A guard stood at the base of the dais. He bowed as Skylor mounted the stairs. King Chen sat on his wooden throne watching with impassive eyes. ‘He’s gone all out today.’ Skylor internally frowned, taking in her father’s rich red robe and purple headdress.
Curtsying deeply, she spoke, “Father.”
She kept her head down and waited. Irritation prickled within her. All the questions she’d been contemplating begged to be released, but decorum in the throne room trumped any personal desires.
“Ah my dear, thank you for joining us on such short notice.”
‘Us?’ Rising Skylor saw for the first time the man standing behind the throne. Black robes and hair blending in with the shadows, as if he was one of them, the royal advisor, Clouse, stood silently. The golden staff in his hand gave a stark contrast to the dark aura that surrounded him. Skylor’s eyes narrowed slightly at the accessory. It wasn’t one she’d seen before. The white diamond inlaid on the top seemed to whisper to her. She almost took a step toward it when-
“There’s a visitor that I think will be of interest to you.”
Skylor tore her gaze away and looked back at her father. “To me?”
Chen gestured to the smaller chair at his side. Sitting down Skylor waited for him to continue.
“Yes. It seems Prince Cole of the Trerian Kingdom has chosen to visit.”
Skylor raised an eyebrow. Trerian was nearly a month’s journey to the east. Nothing but desert wasteland and dangerous roads lay between the two kingdoms. Whatever the prince was here for, it was a very deliberate - or desperate- reason.
“Has he said the reason for this visit?”
Father shook his head. “He gave very little warning that he intended to come here. However...” Lingering over the word, Skylor saw an odd light come into her father’s eyes. “However there are rumors he’s an Elemental Master.”
That explained why her presence was requested. Yet Skylor couldn’t think what element this prince might have. From everything she’d been taught most Elemental Masters lived in Ouroboros. If an Element wasn’t here, the most likely explanation was the family line had died out. But that didn’t fit in with this situation...
“An Elemental Master in Trerian?”
“Curious enough to begin with but... it’s believed he is the Master of Earth.”
Skylor couldn’t keep her mouth from dropping at that. “The Master of Earth?”
Of all the Elements for this foreigner to be it was one of the primary Elements?!
“That is the speculation. If he’s not entirely forthcoming with that information, you will be able to tell if these rumors are true.”
Skylor wasn’t sure she liked, or understood, the tone of the king’s voice, but she nodded.
A slow smile spread across Chen’s face. “Good.” He nodded to the guard. “I believe it’s time to see our guest.”
The guard bowed again and exited out a side door. Skylor and Chen waited in silence. Then, with a deep rumble, the doors at the end of the room swung open.
Two grim faced guards wearing forest green tunics marched into the room. They parted, giving Skylor her first view of the prince. Whatever she expected it wasn’t what she saw.
Prince Cole looked about her age, maybe a year or two older. With his deeply tanned skin and black hair he could have passed for a citizen of Ouroboros. He was broad shouldered and, even through his black tunic, Skylor could see he had the physique of a warrior. However, what confused Skylor was the way his shoulders seem to hunch. His head and gaze remained low, but it appeared to be a practiced motion rather than simply showing King Chen his respect.
As if he felt her studying him Cole looked up and met Skylor’s stare. Weariness shone in his eyes and, in that brief moment, Skylor had to wonder if it was caused by more than the trip across the desert. Almost as quickly his eyes returned to a spot on the floor. He stopped before the dais and bowed deeply at the waist.
“Your Majesty.” His deep voice reverberated easily through the room. “Thank you for consenting to see me on such short notice. I apologize for my lack of warning but time was of the essence.”
“I must say you have piqued my interest. It’s not often we entertain emissaries from Trerian, let alone one of its princes.”
Skylor could have sworn she saw Cole’s jaw tighten before he straightened.
“King Lewis sends his regards. It’s at his request I’ve come.” The young man hesitated for a moment. Taking in a deep breath he continued, “There have been... unnatural events happening at home. Localized earthquakes. Rocks moving and dust rising when there’s no wind or storm. Since history dictates your country has dealt with a variety of unique occurrences, it is my King’s hope you would be able to bring understanding and a stop to whatever is causing it.”
Chen tapped his fingers together. “I see. There are several things it could be and many potential things that haven’t been heard here before. This will take time to research.”
Bowing again, Cole nodded. “Thank you for your willingness to look into the matter.”
Chen continued as if he didn’t hear him. “My daughter’s 18th birthday celebration is in two days. There will be little time to start inquiring before then. In the meantime you and your party are welcome here at the palace until the matter is settled. What is your total so we can prepare rooms for you?”
“It’s myself and four guardsmen, sire.”
Only four guards? Skylor hid her another frown. If memory served, Cole was third in line for the throne but that still felt like it would warrant a larger party than five traveling across the barren wastelands.
Chen nodded, not expressing any surprise. “I’ll have rooms prepared for you and your men.”
He rose from his seat and walked to the prince. Knowing that was her cue, Skylor followed suit.
“Princess Skylor will escort you to the western guest quarters.”
Cole nodded and bowed before the pair. “Thank you again, sire.”
Skylor could feel the expectation radiating off her father. Refraining from rolling her eyes, Skylor extended her hand to Cole. He took it.
A sudden surge of warmth charged up Skylor’s arm before resting in her chest. The strength almost took her breath away. She had been in contact with other Elemental Masters over the years, but this young man’s power rivaled any she’d ever experienced. There was no doubt in her mind this was a primary Elemental Master.
Through the rush in her ears she realized Cole had said something. Settling for a nod Skylor hoped her daze hadn’t been noticeable.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you Prince Cole. I hope your stay here will be a beneficial one.” She gestured to a side door. “If you’ll come with me I'll show you where you can freshen up. I’d imagine it’s been a long journey.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.” Cole walked with his men to the door while Skylor looked back at Chen.
Her father was watching her intently. She gave a barely perceptible nod. A gleam came into Chen’s eye that disappeared a second later. Unsure what that could mean, Skylor watched as her father rejoined Clouse on the dais.
An awkward cough came behind her. Cole and the two guards stood by the doorway, waiting for her.
“I apologize, my mind was elsewhere for a moment.”
As Sklyor directed the men through the halls she couldn’t help but wonder, ‘What is this going to lead to?’
Notes:
Quick note about Skylor- she is still Master of Amber, but, though she can use any power she's absorbed, she can only do it at about 1/2 strength of what the original master could do at full strength. The philosophy there is kinda jack of all trades, master of none. And no combining two at once (though she could do two different elements in rapid succession).
I'm deliberately changing Cole's dad's name from Lou to Lewis. For this AU what I'm doing with his family is different enough that it's not the same character depicted in the show. More as the story develops 😉
Chapter Text
Clouse stared intently at Prince Cole's retreating form. Something moved in his periphery and he turned to see Chen dismissing the guard. Soon the two men were alone in the large room.
Chen drummed his fingers on his throne. "A surprising turn of events, to say the least. What do you make of this?"
"The timing is... most curious."
Nodding, Chen leaned back in his chair. "My thoughts exactly. Him withholding the fact he's the Master of Earth is suspicious in of itself."
"It's possible he doesn't know." Clouse ran a hand down his scepter. "History has shown that Trerian is a country that doesn't exactly... appreciate that which they don't understand. Elemental masters being among such."
"We'll see. He's very powerful if it is indeed him causing the widespread tremors. " Chen gave Clouse a sidelong glance. "Keep a close eye on him."
"Of course, Your Majesty. I also must inform you that I received word that Lord Neuro sends his regards but he will be unable to make it to Skylor's birthday... again."
Chen's face darkened. "What was his excuse this time?"
"Something about a family emergency. He neatly forgot to give the specifics."
"That man has taken far too many liberties with my patience over the years... he's started to become much more than a nuisance. I'll have you draft a response later. Anyone else I should be aware of?"
"No. The other guests have sent their replies and should begin arriving tomorrow."
"Good, good. I expect a report from you tonight."
"Of course, sire." Giving a partial bow, Clouse excused himself.
After exiting the room Clouse kept his face impassive, but his thoughts were anything but calm. It had been several years since a new Elemental master had appeared and now, of all the times it could happen, another master of Creation literally appeared on their doorstep. The timing hardly could be a coincidence. Frowning, Clouse picked up speed, ignoring the servants who literally ran to get out of his way.
Once in his chambers Clouse shut his door with more force than strictly necessary. 'This does not leave much time to prepare.' Doing a quick sweep of the room to make sure it was empty, Clouse struck the staff on his chamber floor. A piercing clang rang out. The white diamond flashed and Clouse muttered a spell under his breath. As the light faded from the room, Clouse did too.
Soft firelight danced against the cave walls. Not bothering to wait for his eyes to adjust, Clouse took the familiar path deeper into the earth. The tunnel opened into a large room lit by torches and a central fire pit. Illuminated in the glow were several tables scattered about filled with scrolls, jars, bottles and bits of metals. Most notably was a large planetary model set on metal stands moving in real time.
Walking to the display, Clouse tracked the sun, moon and earth's slow rotations. Clouse whispered another spell. The spheres accelerated, whipping around the base of the podium as time artificially passed. Then, with an audible shriek, the model stopped. The sun rested in front of the planet, moon between the two.
"Expand."
Flickering images of the nearest planets in the solar system appeared- all lined up directly behind the sun.
Clouse stared at the earth, standing alone in the solar system. An event that came only every 300 years.
A high pitched caw came from the stalactites, breaking Clouse from his musings. He let the illusion fade and the planet returned to its present location. Looking up Clouse waited for a large falcon to land on the ground in front of him.
"Do you have anything that's actually worth while today?"
The bird's eyes narrowed and it screeched indignantly.
"Watch it." Clouse glared but the bird tapped its foot impatiently.
He sent a stream of purple magic at the bird. There was a grunt of pain as the bird's form grew and elongated. In a matter of seconds the falcon had been replaced with a man bracing himself on all fours and panting heavily.
"I... hate... that!" The man spat between breaths.
Clouse raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "I could leave you as a bird but give you the ability to speak. That would remove the need for any further transformations."
Another glare met Clouse's words, the effect amplified by the cloudy visage that covered the man's left eye. He forced himself upright on wobbly knees and brushed dirt off his leather shirt.
"That's what I thought."
"Look ya want your report or not?"
"By all means Ronin, don't let me stop you."
Flexing his hand Ronin spoke tersely. "I scouted that cave you sent me to and it looks legit. The problem is there's booby traps galore- even airborne ones- that I'm not able to disable thanks to my lack of fingers."
Clouse waved away Ronin's barbed statement. "If you couldn't get close how do you know that it's there?"
"People don't trap like that unless they've got something important to protect."
"You would know." Clouse mused aloud. Ronin bristled but didn't comment. "But you're too valuable for me to risk, and frankly too untrustworthy to make the attempt. Hmmmmm." Tapping his thumb on the scepter, Clouse turned his attention back to the clock. The days were passing swiftly and time was running out. "I've got a new assignment for you."
"As long as it isn't reading those stupid scrolls again. My eye is still crossed from the last time."
"Might I remind you-" Clouse reached into his robe and pulled out a small gold ring. He held it up for Ronin to see. Ronin's face grew red and he took a step toward it, but Clouse held it out of reach. "-that you aren't in a place to negotiate." Clouse pocketed the ring while Ronin tracked his movements. "So don't get any ideas."
"Hey, we have a deal."
"Oh I'm aware. I'm just making sure you remember it. After all, all ways here are my ways."
Ronin clenched his jaw. "You've made your point. What do you want now?"
"This assignment is twofold. You're to keep an eye on the visiting prince. There's something off with his story and I need to know what he's doing and who he talks to. On top of that look for a candidate for the cave's trails. Someone clever, quick on their feet- and not in a position to attempt a double cross."
"And how do you expect me to be in two places at once?"
"I'm sure you'll figure it out. You have two hours to do what you will before I send you out."
Growling under his breath, Ronin stormed out of the room. Based on his door choice Clouse suspected he was going into the mines instead of to his pallet. Clouse rolled his eyes. He'd have to make sure Ronin didn't fall asleep on assignment again.
Pulling out the ring once more Clouse walked over to a scrying bowl. He dipped it inside and a rippling image of a woman appeared. Her black hair was long and unkempt and her mouth tight as she bent over a stack of wood. As Clouse watched, Ronin approached her and she dropped the wood in her hand. Her pale face regained some of its color but a desperate look filled her eyes. She probably would have run to Ronin, but the fetters around her ankles didn't allow for much range of motion. Clouse curled his nose in disgust as the two embraced and let the image fade. At least some of the incentive for Ronin's behavior wasn't going to become ineffective any time soon.
Leaving the bowl, Clouse walked to one of his scroll filled tables. He dug out a small piece of parchment, buried beneath the pile. Neat handwriting filled the space.
Located:
Light
Nature
Wind
Gravity
Metal
Sound
Speed
Mind
S moke
Poison
Amber
Ice
Flipping over the paper, Clouse looked over the Elements recorded there.
Missing:
Creation
Destruction
Fire
Earth
Lightning
Water
Time
S hadow
He crossed 'Earth' off the list and moved it to the front. The number of missing Elements had dwindled in recent years, but not quickly enough. Frowning Clouse looked over the Elements again.
Creation and Destruction had long since been lost to the ages. They had been the only ones not to reappear with any others that had died out throughout Oroborous' long history. Clouse had little hope of ever finding them, but he kept them on the list as a reminder of what still might be out there.
There had been a lead on two Elements years ago, but that came to nothing. However, with Earth showing up now... Clouse wouldn't be surprised if others made themselves known in the coming days. Especially if history were to repeat itself. That left only the job of being at the right place at the right time when they appeared.
Clouse turned his gaze to the diamond staff in his hand. In the torch light various colors could be seen jerking around, as if trying to escape. The most violent was a bright white that swirled like a storm, flashing and dimming at regular intervals.
"Don't worry, you won't have to stay there for much longer."
Assuming everything went according to plan. Clouse rubbed his temples. That was still a large assumption. But, now that Earth had made itself known, he could better prepare. Pulling out one of his texts, Clouse began to mix different ingredients in a ceramic bowl.
At one point he reached to grab a flask off a nearby table. When he turned back, his elbow struck the bowl, sending it crashing to the floor. Cursing under his breath, Clouse looked over the mess. He'd have to start from the beginning. Might as well kill two birds with one stone.
A large bronze bell had been mounted on the far wall. Still muttering to himself Clouse walked over and rang it. Low pitched clanging reverberated through the cave and into the tunnels beyond. While he waited, Clouse magicked the mess away.
Several minutes later a giant of a man walked into the room. His tanned skin and black hair, along with his black guard's uniform, made him look like an extension of the shadows. Black eyes, so dark they were almost purple, practically matched the purple snake embroidered on his chest.
"Captain Pyth."
"Sir." Pyth gave a brisk nod.
"I've been reminded that I haven't had a status update from the lower levels in three days. I believe you were told to report to me daily."
"Forgive me, sir. We've been busy and I haven't had the opportunity to be discrete."
Clouse narrowed his eyes. "Don't let it happen again." He paused to let his words sink in. "Now what is the latest report?"
"We're making progress, sir. The weapons are coming along and production is on schedule for apparatus that you wanted. We still haven't figured out a source to work it, but there's been a few rumors of people in the city who might be able to... help... with that."
"I see." Frowning in thought, Clouse considered his options. "Find anyone who might be of use. We're running out of time and it has to be done. Soon. But I need you to remain discreet. I don't want this revealed prematurely."
"I understand. I'll have my men get right on it."
"Good. You're dismissed. Send Ronin to me on your way back with a tin dish. The last shipment didn't cut it."
With a nod the man spun on his heel and marched out of the room. 'Some good news at least.' If the contraption became functional that would be the biggest piece of the puzzle locked into place.
Footsteps echoed into the room and Clouse looked up as Ronin all but stumbled back in. His eye was bloodshot and the way his hair was marred made it look like he'd just been awakened from sleep. A medium tin bowl balanced precariously in his open hands. Clouse waved the bowl over and Ronin leaned tiredly against a table.
"Time to start. Remember what happens if you shirk in your duty." Clouse narrowed his eyes at Ronin.
"Whatever. Just get it over with."
A smug sense of satisfaction rose within Clouse as he shot another burst of purple magic at Ronin. Ronin let out a grunt but didn't make any other sound until he had turned back into a falcon. Once bird Ronin stopped kneeling over, Clouse struck the scepter against the ground. In the blink of an eye Ronin disappeared.
Alone again, Clouse looked around the room. There was another matter he needed to attend to. One that wouldn't work if anyone happened to walk in on while he did it. Casting another spell, Clouse set invisible walls at all the room's doors. They would only dissipate when Clouse commanded them to. Satisfied in his work, Clouse struck the ground with the staff once more.
This time the flash was subtler, more muted in color. A form flickered into existence a few feet in front of him. Clouse waited until he had the newcomer's full attention.
"I have a new assignment for you. Things are about to become... interesting."
Notes:
A/N- Just because there are a list of located elements doesn't mean Skylor has them all... what she does and doesn't have will continue to be revealed as the story progresses :)
Also, as some of you may have noticed (especially in this chapter), there are significant Aladdin vibes in this story ;) Yes this is a crossover-esque story but no it will not exactly follow the plot lines of either Ninjago or Aladdin. Until next chapter my peeps :)
Chapter 4: Of Presents Given and Received
Chapter Text
"Stop! Thief!"
Yes, because yelling at him to 'stop' was really going to bring Kai to a screeching halt. He rolled his eyes. The guards gave themselves entirely too much credit. If anything, their shouts only fueled his determination to get away. Though the bread and oranges he'd recently 'acquired' suddenly felt a lot heavier in his pockets.
People scattered before Kai- no one willing to help the proposed thief, but neither was anyone willing to look like allies of the king's soldiers. Ducking down a side alleyway Kai spotted a ladder leading to the flat rooftops. 'I hope this doesn't kill me!' He scrambled up the wall and reached the roof right as the guards turned the corner.
Not stopping to see if they'd seen him climb, Kai continued his sprint. Now instead of dodging pedestrians, he had to dodge gravity. Small price to pay if it got him away. Maybe if he ran towards the setting sun, even though it was the opposite way than Jay's where everyone was supposed to meet up, they wouldn't see him as easily-
"-He's up there!-"
"-Morro get your squad this way!-"
"-I see him!-"
'Crap.' Forcing his aching legs faster Kai turned north in hopes that changing directions would throw off his pursuers. 'I've got to find a way down!' The last thing he needed was to be cornered twenty some feet (6.1m) above the ground. Several of the houses flying beneath his feet had stairs, but they led to the inside of the building. Getting stuck in some random person's house didn't sound any more appealing than being attacked on the roof. He grit his teeth and kept going.
The dense loaf in his hand felt heavier than it should have. Yes he'd gone a little overkill trying to flinch this, but with Nya's birthday 'celebration' in less than an hour and very little to show for it... Kai has gotten a little greedy. Just in time for one of the extra patrols to spot him and give chase.
Trying to keep from squeezing the bread into a crumbly mess he turned back toward the east. Three houses later two wooden prongs poked above one of the roofs. 'Please be a ladder, please be a ladder- Yes!!' He scurried down and took to the streets again. Somewhere between going up and down the houses he put himself out of the guards line of vision.
Gradually the sounds of pursuit died away. Kai pressed on for a few more minutes before stumbling to a halt in a darkening alleyway. He leaned against the wall, panting heavily. 'That was way too close.' And now several guards knew what he looked like- just what every criminal wanted. 'Some birthday run this has turned out to be.' He thought bitterly. That's all he wanted to get Nya as a present; his incarceration and probable execution. A small sound, almost like a whimper, broke him out of his thoughts.
Kai spun on his heel and looked around. The alley wasn't as empty as he'd initially thought. It took a moment in the poor light, but Kai gradually began to make out a hunched figure within the shadows. He was about to leave when the sound came again. 'Don't do it, don't do it...' Too many people pretended they were in need of help in order to waylay some unsuspecting soul.
Still, Kai hesitated.
The noise had sounded like someone in actual trouble. He looked around, but no one else appeared to be lurking nearby. Cautiously Kai took a step forward. The person immediately scooted farther away.
"Hello?"
Instead of an answer another choked noise exploded from the individual and one of their arms came up to cover their head. Kai froze but was now close enough to make out the details of the person before him.
It was a girl several years younger than Kai. However, her condition made Kai's blood freeze. Her clothing was torn and covered in blood. The hand that wasn't covering her head clutched at her blouse in a desperate attempt to hold the torn fabric together. When Kai made no move toward her, she looked up and their gazes locked.
The fractured look in her eyes made Kai stumble back. It was a look he did everything imaginable in his power to keep from seeing on Nya's face... and one that Kai had seen take years to fade from Cade.
The look of someone who had completely given up hope.
"Here." Kai slowly held the bread out toward her before he realized what he was doing. "You need it more than I do."
She stared at it for a long moment, clearly wanting to lunge for it, but instead she pressed herself flatter against the wall. "I ain't takin' no favors." Her voice came out raspy and brittle.
If such a little kindness as bread made her wary, Kai could only imagine the life she'd had. "It's not a favor, it's a gift. Sorry it's not more."
He took one more step towards her and stretched his arm out again. Slowly, suspiciously, she uncoiled herself. Then she lurched forward and snagged it from his hand before curling back up to the wall. The bread disappeared in a matter of seconds.
"If- if you're ever looking for anywhere to stay out of sight there's several abandoned houses on the south side near the river delta. It's close enough to the palace that not too many people hang out there long term but uh, just want to let you know." Kai shifted awkwardly. The girl didn't respond and Kai took that as his cue to leave.
Walking briskly around the corner, Kai let out a shuddery breath. He wasn't unaccustomed to the dire needs and hurts of many who lived on Ouroboros' streets- he lived it himself- but that didn't mean he had to be desensitized to the horrors the city could hold. Forcing down the rising bile in his throat he resumed his trek to Jay's.
Few pedestrians remained on the streets. The last rays of sunset were disappearing and leaving only a half hour at best before full dark. Several large birds lazily flapped in the sky, heading to their roosts. Kai picked up his pace. After the last couple hours he had no desire to test his waning luck with the night prowlers.
Walking quickly Kai managed to make it to Jay's apartment just before twilight. He stopped outside the door and ran a hand through his hair. Not only had he lost what was going to be the bulk of their meal, but now all he had to offer Nya as a present was a measly orange. Nya- and Cade- deserved way more. Resisting the urge to bang his head on the door, Kai instead used his hand to knock. Jay opened the door, the tight lines around his eyes relaxing when he saw Kai.
"There you are! We were beginning to wonder if something happened to you." Jay paused and took in Kai's disheveled appearance. "What did happen to you?"
Kai gave a half grin/half grimace to his friend's onslaught of words. "You know the palace guards are always more vigilant on days like today. They decided they wanted to play cat and mouse. Guess who was the mouse." He rolled his eyes. "But do ya mind if I come in? I don't want to draw any attention standing here on your doorstep."
A similar grimace crossed Jay's face and he quickly ushered Kai inside. The cluttered workroom immediately felt claustrophobic compared to the street, but unless someone peered between the slats boarding up the front window, Kai was virtually out of sight. He had only taken two steps forward when a flying brown blur crashed into him. Kai stumbled back, ribs groaning in protest.
"Hey, Cade. You know it's only been a couple hours since I last saw you, right?"
The younger boy released Kai and glared at him accusingly. "Yeah, but you're normally not late. Or at least not this late."
"I know, I know. Sorry about that. It's not like I was trying to make you guys worry."
"You still managed it pretty well."
Kai looked up to see Nya across the room, arms crossed and leaning against the door jam that led to Jay's small kitchen. "I'm sorry. I promise this wasn't the gift I planned on giving."
"It's certainly made this birthday more exciting than past ones." She stated dryly.
"Alright now that everyone's here how 'bout we move this party to the table?" Jay interjected himself between the siblings before their building tension could erupt into an all out argument. "Were you able to bring the main course?"
Flushing slightly, Kai shook his head. "That was part of the reason I'm late. Some guards saw me snag the bread and then... well let's just say someone much worse off than us needed it." Kai's eyes drifted to Cade.
Nya and Jay followed the look and Nya's posture softened. "That's okay. We'll make do."
'I wish I could give you more than just "making do."' I want us all to more than survive. I want to live.' Biting his tongue, Kai reached into his jacket pocket. "I did, however, get us dessert." Three oranges gleamed in his hands.
Cade leapt up. "You got oranges!?"
"It is a special occasion." Kai smirked, but his heart wasn't in it.
"Thank you Kai." Smiling Nya took the fruit and led the group to the kitchen.
The small room barely fit the four people crowded into it, but it gave off a cozy feel. A pot of watery soup simmered over a fireplace. Chipped bowls sat on the table along the far wall. They squished around the table and Jay dished the soup. It did little more than line Kai's stomach but he was grateful for Jay's effort. The young would-be inventor hardly had more than Kai and his siblings. Not many people were interested in the metal creations Jay predominately made.
When the soup was finished Kai brought out the oranges and divided them into four parts. He gave a slightly larger portion to Nya.
"Happy 17th Birthday, sis."
Jay and Cade echoed his words. Kai glanced sideways at Cade. He was smiling but, like at each of Kai's and Nya's birthdays, the smile didn't quite reach his eyes.
While the older two had the rare, on the street, knowledge of knowing their birthday and ages -since Kai had been old enough to remember before their parents vanished- everything about Cade was shrouded in mystery. They didn't know his birthday, his age, or even his real name. He'd only been called 'boy' - on good days- until he joined Kai and Nya.
"I do have one more thing." Kai broke away from his thoughts and looked at Jay. "But I need everyone to close their eyes."
"But it's only Nya's birthday." Cade whined.
"Oh just do it." Kai lightly smacked Cade on the head.
"Okay, okay."
Suspiciously everyone complied. Kai heard Jay leave the table and rummage in the workroom. Something flashed bright enough to be seen through Kai's closed eyelids.
"Wha-?"
"Keep them closed for another second!" Jay's voice sounded more forceful than Kai could ever remember hearing.
"Yeish. They're closed."
"Kai be nice." Nya hissed.
Another flash came, and this time a soft 'whirr' accompanied it.
"Okay, you can open them."
"Oh Jay!"
Kai felt his own breath catch in his throat. A small metal etching of a phoenix in flight moved up and down, as if by magic, against an etched coastal background.
"How-?" Nya's voice filled with wonder. "We couldn't even get the time prototype to work. How did you-?" She gently traced the phoenix's base.
"I have my ways." Jay smiled but Kai noticed a hint of strain in his voice.
"What was that flash?"
Jay flinched just slightly. "I- I lit a match."
"You lit a match?" Kai drew out the question. "I know how fire looks and that was way to bright-"
"I've been developing something new with magnesium..." Jay trailed off.
"Kai, leave him be." Nya scolded. "It's beautiful Jay, thank you so much."
The topic dropped, moving to other things. Eventually the group piled into the main room with their sleeping mats. As they wound down none of the occupants noticed the feathers that drifted past the window. Neither did anyone see the bird that soared through the night toward the brightly lit palace. Ignoring the Princess' guests he flew to a room with a window unobtrusively cracked open.
The party guests never noticed when a more surly member of the court retired for the evening. And certainly no one overheard his exchange with the no-longer-a-falcon.
"I think I learned a couple things you might be interested to know."
Notes:
A/n- The plot thickens hehehehe. Also just to clarify, yes Jay knows he's the Master of Lightning, no he hasn't told Kai/Nya/Cade because of reasons...
Chapter 5: A Delicate and Deliberate Dance
Chapter Text
"The cake is ready?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
Skylor stepped sideways to avoid two servants carrying a table. Her eye scanned the expansive room currently filled with people setting furniture, hanging tapestries, and arranging cutlery. "The drink table is prepared?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"The guests who have arrived have been taken care of?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"And what about-"
"I'll take it from here." Chamille stepped in front of the maid whose green eyes were growing wider with each question. "Thank you Pixal." The girl curtsied and briskly left to take care of some other task- and before Skylor could send more questions her way.
"We've got this girl, you can breathe. It's not the first time the palace staff has put together a party."
"I know, I know." Skylor resisted the urge to rub her temples. "But this is the first time Father has put me in charge of the preparations. I don't want this to reflect poorly on him."
"He knows that and based on how everything is going, I don't think you'll have anything to worry about."
"She's right my dear," Another female voice cut in, "From what I can see you are doing a fabulous job."
Skylor's heart rose at the voice. She turned to face the newcomer. Standing calmly among the organized chaos, a stately middle aged woman, clothed in an emerald green gown that matched her eyes, smiled at the princess. A slim package rested in her arms.
"Lady Misako," Skylor gave the woman a deep head nod, the largest gesture of difference her elevated station allowed in front of so many people. In reality she wished to wrap Misako in a hug. "It means so much to me that you would come. If I may be candid, I was surprised that you accepted the invitation. My deepest condolences on your loss."
News had come only two months ago that the aging Lord Garmadon had succumbed to the illness that wracked his body for years. No one had ever officially figured out the cause of his ailment, a wasting disease that ate at both his body and mind, but gossip had whispered it stemmed from a broken heart over the loss of their son.
Sadness flickered in Misako's eyes even as she gave a gentle smile. "Thank you. As much as I will miss him, my husband is finally at peace. Besides, I wouldn't miss your coming of age birthday celebration for anything."
Those words meant more to Skylor than anyone might ever know. Though Misako's visits to the palace were few and far between, because of her husband's health, those visits allowed for a close bond to form between the women. In a way Misako became a surrogate mother for Skylor and Skylor was the child Misako never raised.
"When did you arrive?"
"Just after midday. I finished preparing my belongings and one of the maids informed me you were here."
Skylor swept her gaze around the room then sent a quick look to Chamille. With a nod Chamille turned to one of the annex rooms that lined the ballroom.
"It seems everything is taken care of for the moment. Let's retire to the drawing room for a few minutes where we can speak in relative peace."
Chamille ushered the two inside the room and closed the door behind them. Skylor let out a tiny sigh of relief as the noise instantly dimmed to a muted hum. Several plush couches sat close together in a U shape. Vaulted windows allowed golden sunlight to fill the room. Skylor settled on one of the seats facing Misako.
"How was your journey here?"
"Uneventful, which is as much as I could ask for- given our route."
Hiding a grimace, Skylor nodded. The two day journey from Hiroshi Manner led past cliffs notorious for hiding waiting criminals. Another reason Misako didn't often make the journey to the palace. "I'm glad."
"I knew I would see you tonight at the ball, but I wanted to catch you early to give you this in person." Misako gently handed the bundle in her arms to Skylor.
Skylor tried not to look too eager as she unwrapped the package. In a matter of seconds she held two scrolls bound together by a silver chain set with a delicately carved oleander blossom.
Skylor's breath caught in her throat. "It's beautiful."
"There's an old proverb that says 'the flower that blooms in adversity is the beautiful of all.' I've seen that be true for you my dear. As you enter adulthood don't lose sight of the lessons you've learned. Speaking of lessons..." She gestured to the scrolls. Skylor unrolled them to find depictions and detailed depictions for sword forms and attacks. "These scrolls have been passed down from my father's fathers for generations. They have been carefully guarded and selectively utilized over the years so that only a few know their prowess. Garmadon and I have no heir and, as such, I would be honored if you accepted these. I know you would put them to good use."
Even with all her etiquette training Skylor couldn't keep her jaw from dropping. "My Lady... these- I couldn't accept-"
"Yes," Misako interrupted, "you can. They are a gift."
"Thank you.' Skylor stared in wonder at the scrolls. Such a gift was not only priceless, but in the gift -and in her phrasing- Misako was practically claiming Skylor as her heir. She shook herself and gave Misako a tight hug.
A soft knock came at the door. Skylor started and reluctantly let go of Misako while Chamille opened the door.
"Yes?"
Skylor couldn't hear the reply but Chamille nodded and closed the door.
"Sorry Highness, your father wants to see you before the party kicks off."
"Alright." She shot a look at Misako, who waved her toward the door.
"Don't worry about me dear. I plan on staying for the next two weeks. We will have time to catch up."
Skylor smiled. "I look forward to it."
With a final nod Skylor passed her gifts to Chamille and left the room. People still swarmed the halls, most too focused on their tasks to notice the Crown Princess walking in their midst. Skylor smothered a smile. It wasn't often she could walk about unnoticed even in the palace.
Soon she reached the large wooden doors leading to the King's chambers. The two guards standing in front of them bowed to her and knocked on the door. Seconds later it opened and a man, a little on the heavier side, poked his head out.
"Ah my Princess! Come in, come in!"
Skylor gave a tight smile at the man's enthusiastic response. "Thank you Dareth. I was told my father sent for me?"
"Yes he did. In fact I was about to go find you myself because obviously whoever they sent wasn't as fast as I- ahh!" Dareth's words broke off with a yelp as he tripped over his pant leg and landed face first on the floor.
Fighting a sigh, Skylor waited for her father's manservant to stand up again. Why Chen kept him as his personal attendant, Skylor had no idea. Though in her father's weird way he probably found the man's endless bumbling a cheap source of entertainment. But that meant the rest of the castle had to put up with the messes that inevitably followed.
At that moment Chen stepped out from one of the adjacent rooms. "Skylor my dear, happy birthday."
Skylor gave a small curtsy. "Thank you Father."
"Ach, don't tell me you're too old for a hug now."
Smiling, Skylor shook her head. "Of course I'm not."
The two embraced before Chen pulled back and looked her over head to toe. "I can hardly believe it. My little girl, all grown up."
"Father." Skylor glanced at the servants in the room, most of whom were watching the pair. She fought against the heat rising in her face.
Chen smirked. "What?"
"Father!" Skylor didn't hide the exasperation in her voice this time.
Laughing, Chen ushered Skylor to his solar. The little red and gold room held two couches facing each other with a table- currently holding a tray of bread and cheese- between them. Several other chairs and cabinets lined the room. Chen shut the door behind them and Skylor relaxed her posture. This room was one of the few places in the castle where Skylor and Chen could be father and daughter rather than king and princess.
Skylor traced the back of her usual chair before pointing an accusing finger at Chen. "You enjoy embarrassing me entirely too much."
"What else are fathers for? And now that it's your 18th birthday I won't have many more opportunities since you're no longer my little girl."
Rolling her eyes Skylor settled into the chair. "Somehow I doubt you'll let it go that easily. But thank you Father."
"If only your mother could see you now. You're so much like her." Chen took his own seat and chose a goblet from the table.
Skylor brushed the hair out of her eyes. Given that her mother had died in childbirth Skylor never knew the woman. However, Chen's stories helped paint a picture of who she'd been.
"What was her opinion on birthday celebrations?"
A distant look came into Chen's eyes and he smiled. "She hated her own. As if being queen wasn't enough, she then had another reason for everyone to be paying her attention. But she loved hosting for others. She kept track of almost all the staff's birthdays. When we found out that you were on the way, Adela was so excited. I had lists written all over my desk of plans she wanted to complete with you one day."
But instead something had gone wrong and none of those plans had been able to come to pass. Skylor's heart clenched. What was fair about a mother being taken from her newborn and husband?
"I have a gift I've been saving for your coming-of-age celebration." Chen pulled out a small box from his pocket and handed it to Skylor. "In a way, it's a gift from both your mother and me."
Hands shaking, Skylor gently opened the lid. A small gasp of wonder escaped her lips. Inside two gold rings lay side by side. One was encrusted with rubies while the other had orange topazes inlaid along the band.
"Father... these are beautiful."
"They were our wedding rings. And now I want to give them to you. Even before you were born Adela talked about how she wanted to do this on your 18th birthday. You have three more years before the law dictates that the heir is to be wed, but at 18 we had wanted to remind you that love can come even when you least expect it."
"Like with you and Mother?"
Chen nodded. "You know we were an arranged marriage. But with patience, and a lot of communication, we became best of friends. Whoever you end up marrying I want to see you happy. And I do want grandbabies one day."
"Father..." Skylor drew out the word.
"I know, I know." Chen raised his hands in surrender. "But it's never too early to be looking."
Grimacing Skylor traced the rim of her goblet. "None of the nobles around here are worth my time. Not only are they exceedingly dull, but they're only after your position."
Chen rolled his eyes. "They'd do well to brush up on Ourboron law."
To be fair it had been nearly 150 years since the last female heir inherited the throne. Unless her husband was a king already, the man a female heir chose would not become king but would instead take on the title of Consort. Though he would hold a measure of power in the palace, it would be the Queen who ultimately retained the seat of power. That would only change if she became incapacitated or if she abdicated to her own heir.
"Either they don't know or they don't care. At this point I'm not sure which is worse."
"Well, you will have the opportunity to mingle with more men your age at the ball tonight. Speaking of..." Chen swirled the glass in his hand and looked up at Skylor, "What do you think of Prince Cole?"
Skylor narrowed her eyes. "In what way?"
"There's more than one?" Chen asked- entirely too innocently in Skylor's opinion.
"Father!"
Chen laughed. "Generally speaking."
"I haven't seen him since his party arrived so I don't know him well enough to form an opinion. He seems nice... but at the same time he walks as one who carries a great weight."
"Which could be from being a Primary Elemental Master." Chen mused. "We haven't known one before to adequately understand how such power might affect them."
Skylor quietly disagreed. Amber was considered a secondary Element so Skylor was used to people placing certain expectations on her for that, even more so with her being the princess, but the heaviness in Cole's eyes didn't seem to just be from being a Master.
"I suppose it's possible."
If Chen picked up on the doubt in Skylor's voice he didn't comment. Instead he looked deep in thought. "I would like you to hold off practicing Earth for now. The power it is capable of is astounding if he's causing region wide chaos without trying to. I'd like to know if any... unnatural phenomena are his doing and not yours."
In the business of preparing for the upcoming ball Skylor hadn't had time for any training let alone experiment with a powerful new Element. Though disappointed, Skylor nodded. It was a delicate balance but, realistically, if the Master of Earth were to lash out with his element she wouldn't be much use even if trained. The nerves in her arm tingled at the memory of the raw power that had come from his touch. Yet if he weren't in control of his actions wouldn't her having some control help mitigate any potential problems?
Whatever Skylor's opinion on training in Earth might be, Chen's pronouncement meant the matter was settled.
For the moment.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Your Highness, it came together beautifully."
Skylor, wearing her finest red dress, grinned at a purple clad Chamille. The two women stood side by side near the ballroom's main entrance admiring the sights around them.
A large crowd of men and women decked in their finest clothes intermingled. Domestic and foreign dignitaries had been invited, many of whom Skylor only knew of only by name but Chen insisted for her coming of age to widen the usual group invited for palace celebrations. To Skylor's surprise she even saw Clouse having an animated conversation with a man whose face was obscured from her current line of vision. Though the colors he wore matched those of the palace guards. Mentally shrugging, Skylor surveyed the room again.
Beyond the guests, red and gold banners hung between chandeliers dotted with candles. Warm firelight flickered off the walls covering everything in a golden sheen. The effect was breathtaking.
"Thank you, but all I did was coordinate it."
"Don't sell yourself short. It still took your brains to make this come to life."
Though Skylor let out a small scoff, a sense of pride rose within her. Organizing a party might not be the most important of royal duties, but she'd done it well all the same. Tapping came from the corner of the room and Skylor saw the orchestra conductor raise his baton. Lively music soon filled the room.
"Your Highness," Turning Skylor saw Cole standing near her side. For a formal occasion he was dressed rather simply in a tunic the same green as Trerian's crest. Yet the lack of finery suited him compared to the prancing peacocks that attempted to get Skylor's attention earlier in the evening. "May I have this dance?" Cole bowed.
"I'd be honored." Skylor curtsied rather than nodding in return. Technically speaking, Cole was the only one here equal to her rank.
Cole offered Skylor his hand and for a brief moment she hesitated, memory of the first time she'd felt his power coming to mind. But it wasn't like Skylor could refuse his gesture. Internally holding her breath Skylor took his hand. Nothing.
Well, that wasn't completely true. She could feel his power, like it was humming beneath his skin, but, since her Amber had already absorbed what it could, the Earth didn't overwhelm her senses. Releasing her breath slowly Skylor allowed herself to smile.
"Have you enjoyed your stay thus far? I'm sorry I haven't seen you since you arrived."
The music swirled around them, Cole and Skylor matching their steps to the beat.
"Think nothing of it. I know my visit was a surprise. The hospitality I've received has been more than generous considering the circumstances."
"Ouroboros has much to offer. I hope your stay will grant you the answers you seek."
Cole smiled and Skylor realized this was the first time he'd seemed genuinely happy in their brief encounters. "Thank you, Your Highness. Already the palace library has been a treasure trove of information. I look forward to continuing to explore possibilities with your father's advisors."
"Do you mind telling me what Trerian is like? I've read about it of course, but I'd love to hear about it from one of her countrymen."
Skylor felt tension relax from Cole's shoulders. "In my opinion it's one of the most beautiful places in the world. I'm sure you've read we're set in the Jakai Mountain Range. The peaks stretch beyond the clouds and everything is green for as far as you can see..."
During the next two songs Cole continued to describe his homeland. In his words and tone Skylor could easily see he loved Trerian, but she noticed he focused on the outlying regions, not his home in the capital city of Thyra. Before she could ask questions about city life the third song ended and Chen cut in.
"Thank you for entertaining the princess Prince Cole, but I believe it's time I had a dance with my daughter."
Cole's expression shifted from relaxed to blank so quickly that Skylor stared in surprise for a moment before realizing what she was doing.
"Of course, Your Majesty." Bowing deeply at the waist Cole left the pair.
Skylor watched him go, and noticed for the first time the stares many of the courtiers had been giving the two of them. Frowning slightly, Skylor watched most of the other guests either glare at or ignore Cole. For his part Cole didn't appear to notice and all too quickly he was swallowed in the crowd. Before Skylor could say anything the music resumed.
"My dear?"
Skylor turned her focus back on Chen. "I'm sorry, Father. I was just thinking. Now you said something about a dance?" She forced a smile.
"Indeed."
The tempo accelerated and Skylor lost herself in the music. When it was finished Chen gestured for a servant. Moments later a tray with two glasses was offered to the pair. Taking one Chen steered Skylor off to the side.
"I believe it's time to greet some of the other guests. There are dignitaries here I've been wanting you to meet for several years now."
Which would explain why many of the faces in the ballroom were ones Skylor was unfamiliar with. "Of course."
A young man with light brown hair and an easy smile approached them. He wore a crisp white shirt embroidered with a red lion that Skylor recognized as the Turner family crest. She shot a look at Chen but the king's face was impassive.
"Your Majesties." The man bowed. "Thank you kindly for the invitation."
"What better way to renew alliances than at celebrations?" Skylor narrowed her eyes at the tone in her father's voice. "It's been many years since we were graced with your family's presence Lord Griffin. I don't believe you've met Princess Skylor before."
Griffin held out his hand to Skylor. "My princess. You honor us all with your presence and grace."
Taking his hand Skylor felt the familiar zing of her Amber absorbing another Element. This time she did shoot a glare over Griffin's head at Chen. He could have at least warned her. And at the moment she didn't remember what Griffin's Element was- a key component in her actually being able to use whatever Element she came in contact with.
Seeing the look on his daughter's face Chen stepped forward. "You remember that the Turner House is famous for racehorses and inventions to cut travel time."
'Oh right, Speed.' Glancing around, Skylor eyed the other guests around her. Crest after crest denoted other Elemental families. 'Poison, Light, Plants, Gravity.' Specifically the ones that Skylor hadn't personally interacted with before. That might explain why Chen was adamant in being the one to oversee the guest list. But why not tell her that her birthday was a means of acquiring new Elements? Burying her irritation, Skylor forced a smile on her face as an older man in teal approached.
This was going to be a long night.
Chapter 6: Preparations and Plans Set in Motion
Chapter Text
Clouse grit his teeth. Captain Pyth knew better than to approach him in public- and at the Princess's ball no less. He stalked to the edge of the ballroom with the captain following closely on his heels.
"What was so important you couldn't wait until later this evening to discuss with me?" Clouse hissed, his voice barely discernible above the din that surrounded them. "This is not what I meant when I said you needed to check in regularly with me."
"I'm sorry sir. It's the newest arrival. He's been more unruly than my men anticipated him being and we- we might have lost him."
"You. Did. WHAT?" Clouse barely restrained himself from screaming at the man, though his tone carried enough to earn him several sideways glances from the nearest partygoers.
The normally collected captain paled significantly. "He's still in the lower levels. He couldn't have made it back to the surface, especially since he has no way to know the way in or out."
"You'd better hope his lack of sight keeps you from lacking a head. Get down there and find him. I can't leave yet without drawing suspicion and you'd better hope you find him before I do."
"Yes, sir." Nodding his head Pyth hurried out of the room.
'I'm surrounded by idiots!' Clouse seethed. If the Master of Sound escaped it would be disastrous for his plans. Not to mention alert the public of brewing plans. How in the world did they manage to lose a blind man?
Gritting his teeth Clouse walked back into the throng of people. Music swelled and Clouse didn't ask anyone to dance. No one asked him to either.
A stir ran through the crowd. It took Clouse a moment to pinpoint the source but he froze when he did- Princess Skylor and Prince Cole partnered together on the dance floor.
'And a moment ago I only had a wayward Master of Sound to worry about.' The tertiary Elemental was nothing compared to the secondary Element of Amber, let alone a primary Element like Earth. Though he had many contingency plans in place, Skylor becoming close with a primary wielder could cause more trouble than he bargained for.
That would have to be dealt with. Subtly.
Frowning in thought Clouse didn't have time to process it further when a phantom pain pricked his palm. Someone had entered his quarters.
Lithely, Clouse stalked through the dancers. His presence had no further significance in the evening and Clouse held no fantasies that any of the nobles gathered would care to speak with him again. He would be free to deal with whoever was foolhardy enough to enter his chambers uninvited.
Other than an occasional guard the palace halls were silent as Clouse made his way to his room. 'To think anyone would try to sneak past me and my wards undetected.' Such was laughable, though Clouse never remembered being in a laughing mood in his life. Within three minutes of leaving the ballroom Clouse arrived at his destination.
He burst through the door, foregoing any pretense of subtly.
"Who dares-!" His enraged shout died out when he saw a falcon staring deadpan at him from the windowsill. "Humph."
Slamming the door behind him Clouse sent a bolt of magic at the bird. "You'd better have a good reason for abandoning your post."
For once Ronin really did have a good reason. Clouse gave a feral grin when Ronin finished his report. Ronin took an unconscious step backward, the look on his master's face more terrifying than any of the times he blew up in anger.
"You have until first light to tend to your own devices. I'll give you your next mission then."
Clouse waved his hand and both of them melted into a plume of smoke. Seconds later they reappeared in the caverns. Ronin groaned quietly, but he'd long since adapted to the vertigo sensation that came with Clouse's preferred method of transportation. The constant vomiting in the first few months of his servitude had not been fun.
"First light," The magician reiterated. "Don't be late."
Rolling his eye Ronin disappeared down one of the corridors. Clouse's attention turned to his ingredients and potions. The eclipse was drawing ever near. With most of the Masters gathered in the palace, and now that Skylor's Amber had absorbed each guest's Element, the time for Phase Two had almost arrived.
Clouse looked at the staff and frowned. A couple low-ranking Masters disappearing here or there had been easy to keep from the general populous, but there would be no turning back once Phase Two was enacted. Even if the move didn't show all of Clouse's cards, it was still showing his hand to the people who currently went about their days in blissful ignorance. When mid-ranking lords (who happened to be Elementals) began to vanish, precautions had to be in place to keep the people from revolting.
He'd discuss such with Captain Pyth tomorrow. Assuming the man lived until then. If the Master of Sound wasn't caught Pyth was well aware of the consequences.
Shaking his head, Clouse turned back to the table. His next target would barely catch anyone's attention which, though he was loathe to admit, amazed him. What was with the primary Elements coming from such obscure backgrounds? One would have thought such powerful holders would be standing alongside the ruler of their respective nation, but no. All four would appear and disappear, dyssynchronous and quickly, throughout history. It was as if the Elements themselves wanted to remain hidden. Though one appearing in a foreign king's youngest son was more surprising than ones living in obscurity within Ouroboros itself.
And Lightning being the next one to be found... Clouse grinned again. From the sounds of Ronin's report not only could Lightning be the missing piece needed for Clouse's contraption, but the Master himself could prove an invaluable asset to the project as well- given the right motivation. The boy being an inventor was almost laughable, another unexpected gift of fate. And fate had been generous lately.
Almost as if hearing his thoughts there was a knock on his chamber door.
"Enter."
Pyth walked in, slightly red in the face, but with grim satisfaction. "We caught Sound sir. He hadn't made it anywhere near the entrance. My men are dealing with him as we speak. I'm confident he won't attempt such a stunt again."
"Good- for your sake. Be sure his antics don't spill into the others. I don't have time to deal with an attempted uprising right now."
"Sir." Pyth gave a brisk nod.
"Check the vengestone supply. I need forty sets of shackles in operable condition within the next two weeks."
"Forty?"
Clouse glared at Pyth. "Is there something the matter with that number?"
"No, sir. Just clarifying. The blacksmiths are always more difficult when forced to work with vengestone."
"Remind them of the consequences if they don't obey. My word is final. Dismissed." Clouse waved a hand at him and heard Pyth quickly leave the room.
Scowling Clouse returned to his work. Those people too easily forgot to be thankful they still had their lives- miserable as they may be. Many others who'd outlived their usefulness had been eliminated over the years. Perhaps some needed a reminder that they lived or died by Clouse's will. He'd ponder that later. Now he needed to focus on the best way to contain Lightning.
The Element was volatile by nature. Unpredictable. Few notes and experiments existed from anyone who studied naturally occurring lightning. Many who'd tried ended up electrocuted to death. With so little known about regular lightning, the Element Lightning had to be even more formidable. How much control the Master had over his Element could pose serious problems when he was cornered.
One of the few concrete facts Clouse found was that metal attracted lightning, and that a thick substance known as rubber helped dampen the lightning's effects. It'd be curious to see if Elemental Lightning behaved similarly to its natural counterpart. Luckily Clouse made it a habit to acquire the rare and obscure for his magic purposes. He had a large quantity of rubber sheets on hand. In the morning he would commission to be made into protective gear for the squadron sent after the Lightning Master.
Those wouldn't be ready for a few days, but it'd be wise to study the new Master before then anyway. Know thine enemy and all that. Not that Clouse would be on the field, but he would need his best men on this one and didn't intend to have to pick a new elite group any time soon.
Clouse set to work grounding ingredients for a sleeping potion. If everything went according to plan he'd need a substantial amount in the coming weeks. Not to mention it was one of the few effective ways to shut Ronin up.
As he worked Clouse indulged in imagination, picturing what it'd be like to wield Lightning. Or any of the Elements. Sure there had been a couple instances where he'd shot one of the contained Elements out of the staff, but that wasn't the same as feeling raw power coursing through his veins, becoming anything he wished it to be.
But if everything worked the way he planned he'd get that and more. Much, much more. There was only the pesky detail of surviving.
Energy couldn't be created or destroyed, only converted in form. Even the Elemental powers depended on the strength of their Masters to be utilized. The sheer amount of energy needed to contain all the known Elements would incinerate Clouse in his current state. As such he needed to find a way to increase his own body's capacity to hold such power.
Based on the ancient texts he'd found, there was one sure way. But it required a wish and a sacrifice. The latter portion was a conundrum he'd begun to puzzle through, but he needed access to the former before he could finish his theory.
A small chime interrupted his musings. Clouse looked up to see his time candle burnt out. The night had already passed. As if on cue Ronin stumbled through the doorway, his eye bloodshot but more alert than Clouse had seen in awhile.
"You're to watch the Lightning boy for the next couple days," Clouse began without preamble, "Report in nightly with what he's done, who he talks to and where he goes."
"No prince duty?"
"I don't think he'll be a variable for much longer. Here at the palace I have other people who can keep an eye on him. There's the matter of the boy's friend though. Keep him in your sights too, but your primary objective is Lightning."
"M'kay."
Sleep really did temper Ronin's mood. Clouse would have to consider allowing a little extra time for that, it made dealing with the surly man that much more bearable.
Clouse retrieved his staff, and in a cloud of purple the two men found themselves back in Clouse's quarters. He sent another burst of magic at Ronin and within a minute a brown falcon leapt off the windowsill and into the sky.
Now that Ronin was gone Clouse allowed himself to feel tired. It had been twenty-four hours since he slept last. Putting a sealing ward over his door, Clouse changed his clothes and settled into his bed. A few short hours would be enough to sustain him the rest of the day. There was too much work to waste time on sleeping.
Three hours later he awoke to a knock on the door. More sluggish than he'd prefer, Clouse rose and took down the spell surrounding his door. Irritated, he opened the door to see a young man in a guard's uniform.
"Morro," Clouse didn't bother to hide his disgust.
The feeling was mutual. "Captain Pyth said to report to you prior to breakfast."
Clouse swung open the door and beckoned Morro inside. "You're being reassigned to Prince Cole's guard. A security detail of four is hardly fitting for a visiting prince staying within our walls."
"Because five men will make such a difference." Morro muttered, just loud enough for Clouse to hear.
"I believe having you will make all the difference. Report to me daily with the Prince's activities." Morro frowned, fiddling with the metal vambraces on his forearms. "Do I make myself clear, guard?"
"Yes, sir." Morro snapped.
"By the way how is your father doing?" Clouse smirked at the way Morro clenched his fists. "I do trust he's recovering from his recent accident?"
"The prince was on his way to the dining hall when I came to your rooms. By your leave?" The question came out with biting bitterness.
Clouse gave a dismissive wave of his hand, watching with cold amusement as Morro stomped away. He turned to his wardrobe and selected an outfit. It was time to ready for another day of political scheming and drama. With most of the nobles returning home today it might not be terribly exciting, but who knew what a day could hold?
Chapter Text
Skylor sat cross-legged on the ground. Closing her eyes she focused on taking deep, even breaths. The sound reverberated in the empty training room. Skylor's eyes snapped open and she mentally reached toward Amber.
Her body shot upward, nearly crashing into the ceiling. Biting back an unprincess-like curse, Skylor reflexively brought up her arms to block her face, but in doing so she let go of Gravity. Natural gravity was quick to regain control.
A strangled yelp tore from Skylor's mouth just before she crashed to the mat. She lay stunned, fighting to get air back into her lungs. Several long seconds later she struggled to a sitting position. 'Note to self: Gravity is fickle.'
And that was why she trained alone when she gained a new Element. The last thing she needed was to unintentionally hurt someone... and it decreased the witnesses to her less than graceful attempts at wielding.
Closing her eyes, Skylor imagined herself gently cupping Gravity in her hands. Then, with another deep breath, she called for the Element. A slight breeze pushed her hair. Skylor tentatively opened her eyes. She was floating two feet above the floor. Her hold on Gravity wavered and Skylor plopped to the mat, but this time with a broad smile on her face.
Skylor continued to experiment with Gravity for the next couple hours. By the time a knock came on the door Skylor was able to hold herself stationary off the ground for nearly five minutes, and just over one minute when she bobbed up and down to various heights. She lay on the ground for another moment but the knock came again, more insistent. Groaning internally Skylor shakily rose to her feet. Her knees almost buckled but Skylor caught herself against the wall. 'I forgot how tiring learning a new Element was.' And she had four more to begin mastering- five when Chen took his ban off Skylor practicing Earth.
She swung the door open to see one of her maids. "Yes, Pixal?"
"Your Highness," Pixal hurried to curtsey, "I was sent to tell you the midday meal will be held in the royal dining room."
Which meant she and Chen would be eating with some of the guests- and that Skylor needed to make herself presentable. "Thank you." She turned to take one more drink of water and when she faced the door again she found Pixal looking around the room, almost expectantly. "Did you have another message you needed to deliver?"
Pixal's eyes widened. "No Highness. It's just, usually you're not training by yourself."
"He wouldn't be of much help with today's lesson, so I gave Captain Zane the morning off."
"I see."
Skylor raised an eyebrow. Was that disappointment in Pixal's voice? Pixal noticed Skylor's look and a light pink dusted her cheeks.
She hastily dropped into another curtsey. "If you'll excuse me, I must return to my chores."
Skylor nodded and Pixal hurried away. Letting out a small chuckle, Skylor gathered the rest of her training gear and began the trek to her room. She had noticed it was usually Pixal who was sent to end the morning spars. Apparently it had not been merely happenstance. Given Zane's warm (well as warm as Skylor had ever seen Zane) reception of her at the door earlier this week, Skylor suspected the feelings might be mutual. 'This should be fun.' Just because Skylor hadn't had any luck in her own love life didn't mean she would fault others for their success.
The walk to her room was largely uneventful. Most of their guests had left over the past two days and the remaining stragglers were set to depart that afternoon. While her party had been a hit, Skylor was glad for the pace to return to normal in the palace- or as normal as it ever was.
***********************************************************************************************
Skylor let the plastic smile fall from her face as she left the dining room. How Sir Bolobo had kept up such a long winded, one-sided conversation about desert plants was impressive- in a please get me out of here kind of way. Sadly Misako had been seated at the other end of the table, and appeared to fare much more amiably with Lord Griffin's company. Rubbing her temples, Skylor left the bustling room behind in search of somewhere quiet to regather her thoughts. Her steps took her to the library where it was sure to be quiet.
The large room glowed in a golden sheen as the sun streamed through the many vaulted windows. Stuffed shelves held numerous tomes filled with anything from botanical research to fairy tales to historical records. Skylor took a deep breath, the smell of parchment, ink, and wood wrapping around her like a blanket.
Wandering through the book cases Skylor made her way to her favorite table. Situated in the back corner, this particular table offered a measure of privacy- a place to think. When she rounded the corner she stopped short in surprise.
Prince Cole sat at the table, a rather large book lay open in his hands. Other than an blacked haired Ouroboran guard- that Skylor vaguely recognized- who stood at an unobtrusive distance, the prince was alone. He flipped the page, a small frown on his face
Getting over her surprise, Skylor drew close to the table. "You don't like what you're reading?" Cole shook his head, not even looking up as he continued to read whatever was written on the page. "May I ask why not?"
"I don't- I don't understand..." Cole's voice trailed off and he seemed to realize who he was speaking to. He shot upright out of his chair. "Sorry Your Highness, I was lost in thought."
Skylor waved away his worry and sat in a vacant chair while Cole returned to his seat. "It's okay. I've done the same during some of my studies. What are you reading?" Cole slid the book to Skylor. "Elemental Masters Through the Ages? I can see how that would be a dry read."
"No, it's not that..." Cole trailed off, flexing his hands. "I- this account is true?"
"As far as we know. There are several Elements that haven't been tracked well through time."
"But these- these powers are well known? They're an established way of life here?" Cole's voice cracked, in a desperate way Skylor thought.
Instead of answering, Skylor focused on Smoke. Her entire form flickered and she phased her arms through the table. Cole scrambled backwards with a yelp, nearly falling to the ground.
Skylor returned her body's composition to normal, trying hard to hide the smirk tugging at her mouth as Cole rightened himself. "I guess they don't have many Elementals in Trerian?"
"You could say that..." Cole fidgeted in his chair. "If anything, anyone who displays any... abnormal tendencies is believed to be consorting with black magic."
"Just like that? That's horrible!"
Cole shrugged. "That's just the way it's done at home."
Skylor gave an unladylike scoff. "Just because it's what's done, doesn't mean it's what should be done. Elemental powers are passed down from generation to generation, just as hair or eye color is. While I can't speak for all the phenomenon that takes place in the world, those who wield the Elements are most certainly not black witches or warlocks- unless they choose to study it in addition to their Elemental craft."
"It- it comes from a parent?"
"Usually. I inherited Amber from my mother. However there are instances where a Master passes away without offspring. The details are hazy but either they are able to pass their Element to someone before they die, or the Element attaches to a new bloodline, because in all the years of Ninjago, only Creation and Destruction have completely ceased to exist among the people."
Cole remained silent, his eyes wide. Something Skylor couldn't decipher flashed in them.
"Are you okay?"
"I- I don't know... I think-I think I might-"
"Princess Skylor, Prince Cole?" Skylor and Cole both jumped. Neither had noticed Chamille walking to their table. "My apologies Highnesses. I didn't realize my presence was that terrifying."
Groaning, Skylor turned to her friend. "We didn't hear you is all."
Chamille raised an eyebrow and Skylor rolled her eyes. "I see. Well I am sorry for interrupting but I was told that King Chen has gathered several notable scholars in his personal meeting room to discuss Prince Cole and Trerian's predicament." Cole perked up at Chamille's words. "He apologizes it's taken this long for the meeting to be called."
"He has no reason to be sorry. I did show up unexpectedly."
Skylor rose, intending to lead Cole there herself, but Chamille caught her arm. "I'm sorry but there is another matter your father asks you to attend to."
"But-"
Chamille grimaced. "The King was adamant. Morro will take Prince Cole to the meeting while I will escort you."
Frowning, Skylor could only nod. A direct order from Chen was not only an order from her father, but also an order from her king.
Cole seemed to understand. Being a fellow royal he had most certainly experienced the same. He turned and gave Skylor a small bow. "Thank you for your help Princess. I have much to think over. Though perhaps we could continue our conversation at a more convenient time?"
"After the evening meal I plan to return here to brush up on my knowledge of Ouroboron law."
Nodding, Cole rose. "Assuming I am able, I'll meet you back here this evening."
Before Skylor could respond, Chamille gestured to Morro. He joined the group and Chamille gave him the king's instructions. Promptly Morro escorted Cole from the room. Skylor watched them go with a frown on her face.
Last week Chen had wanted Skylor to confirm Cole was a primary Elemental, and now he didn't want her at the meeting where they were probably going to explain to Cole what that meant? There were many times Skylor didn't understand her father's choices, but this time was taking the cake.
"And what did Father want me doing rather than participating in an important meeting with a foreign dignitary?"
"Sarcasm does not look good on you, Princess."
Skylor sighed. "Sorry. I know it's not your fault, though the question still stands."
"If you'll follow me."
"Chamille!"
"Sorry. We're heading to the stables."
'I don't see how anything in the stables is more important than the meeting with Cole.' Skylor thought sourly. But she kept any further complaints to herself. Chamille seemed to pick up on Skylor's unsaid frustration and didn't try to engage Skylor in conversation as they walked.
They emerged outside into the bright afternoon sun. The stables were set behind the palace. A covered walkway stretched between the two buildings. As Skylor approached the barn she saw a carriage prepared.
"Chamille, what's going on?"
"Sorry dear," A new voice cut in, "I had asked to be the one to explain to you."
Skylor spun to face Misako. "My Lady! I must admit I am a bit lost as to what is going on here."
"Since I plan on staying in the capitol city for now, I spoke with your father about ways I can be of service. After some discussion it was decided that a fresh set of eyes on the infrastructure of the markets and shipyard could be beneficial. So I've asked that you be the one to show me the areas, since you are familiar with how they are run. The King granted me clearance today since he is engaged in other projects."
As far as excuses went this was a pretty good one, but Skylor suspicion of Chen's motives remained. Still, extended time with Misako was a gift that Skylor didn't plan to waste. With a growing smile Skylor joined Misako in the carriage. To her surprise Chamille didn't climb in, but instead waved to them as a footman closed the door.
"Did you have anything in particular in mind that you wanted to address?"
"I have a few things that I've been mulling over, but I won't really know until after I see what is currently in use."
Skylor nodded and their conversation drifted to other topics. The trip to the docks flew by in a blink and Skylor nearly lurched with surprise when the carriage came to a halt.
"It seems we've arrived."
Smoothing out her dress, Skylor exited the carriage to the busy road. Four guards, two before and two behind, fell into step with the women and they began to make their way down the road.
Booths and shops lined the street. People crowded together in the open air, though a respectful distance had appeared between the people and Skylor's entourage. Ships lined the harbor as far as the eye could see with goods of all kinds coming down the gangways.
"Most of our commerce is centered here to make it easier on the merchants. Different guilds are housed in those buildings," Skylor gestured to a row of stone structures a few blocks from the docks, "and they help mitigate the various goods that come into port."
Skylor suddenly bristled. Though she knew as the princess many people would be watching her, she could feel someone's eyes on her in what she could only describe as a 'heavy' way. She looked around but there were too many people to determine where the weighted gaze was coming from. Moving from the people to the booths Skylor continued her visual inspection. One booth, set back in the shadow of its adjacent building, caught her eye but it looked abandoned. Shaking her head Skylor continued to show Misako the details that made up the port.
By the time Skylor finished her exhaustive tour Misako had more than enough ideas to start developing. The ride back to the palace was spent discussing how one aspect might benefit areas without causing upheaval to the statues that were already in place. Though this project was Misako's, Skylor still felt a rush of pride at being able to help brainstorm ways to better help her people. It felt a lot more productive than hosting nobles at the palace. The two continued their conversation through the afternoon and Skylor was surprised to look out the window and see the sky turning a brilliant red.
"I'm so sorry Misako I hadn't realized how late it had gotten."
Misako smiled. "I hadn't either. I've kept you for long enough dear. I'm sure you have other things you planned on attending to today."
"Actually there wasn't much, but I did promise Prince Cole I'd meet him back in the library this evening."
"Oh?"
Skylor couldn't help but roll her eyes. "It's nothing like that." Skylor wasn't sure how much Misako knew about Cole's Elemental powers, or how much Chen wanted confirmed, so she chose her words carefully. "He came seeking information about the Elemental Masters and since I am one, and am well versed in our history, I offered to discuss it more with him. He had a meeting with Father's scholars today though, so I'm not sure if there will be any further questions he needs answered."
A fond smile grew over Misako's face. "Garmadon always told me his family was said to be descended from the First Elemental Master. He said there were whispers of power unlike any other that was there, waiting for the right descendant to resume the mantle. I know he secretly hoped it would manifest in his lifetime, but..." Misako trailed off. Skylor didn't know how to respond, so she opted for a gentle hug. That snapped Misako out of her memories. "Go on. I hope the answers that are needed come to you both."
On her way to the library Skylor mused over Misako's parting words. She hadn't thought that she was one in need of answers, at least not that Cole could supply, but maybe Misako wasn't referring to questions about the Elements. Mentally shrugging Skylor wove between the bookshelves until the table came into view. To her disappointment Cole wasn't there.
'Are they still in the meeting? Has Cole come and gone? Or did he forget?' Though Skylor couldn't fault him if indeed he forgot since she herself nearly had. Still, Cole didn't seem to be one to take his word lightly. 'He might show up.' So Skylor pulled out a book and settled into her favorite chair.
She tried to focus, she really did, but all the words blurred together on the pages as Skylor constantly glanced up at any noise to see if it was Cole. The light in the room dimmed with the setting sun and Skylor busied herself lighting a couple candles before returning to her seat. When her candle had burned away three-fourths the wick, she finally admitted to herself that Cole wasn't coming back to the library. Somewhat peeved she left the library.
'What happened?' Granted it was plausible the meeting was still in session since she'd not seen Chen all day, but she couldn't imagine her father being in a meeting lasting this long. Despite being the king, his patience was not particularly notable. But where were they?
The palace felt eerily silent. Shivering Skylor called on Smoke and teleported to her room. Though midnight had come and gone, Skylor tossed and turned in her bed. Something felt off, though she couldn't put a name to what or why.
It was a long night.
***********************************************************************************************
The next morning Skylor woke with a raging headache. 'Oh, ow.' She rubbed her head, grimacing as stabs of pain assaulted her temples. 'Okay. Not training this morning.' Groaning Skylor forced herself out of bed. No breakfast tray awaited her and Skylor realized it must have been earlier than she initially thought. 'Guess I'm eating in the kitchens this morning.'
After a quick meal of muffins and fruit Skylor decided to see if Cole was up. It might not have been completely in keeping with the general rules of propriety to visit the wing where he and his men were staying, but Skylor's curiosity was running too high to let the matter wait any longer. Yet when she arrived at the rooms housing the Trerians the doors were open, the beds stripped, and not a person was in sight. 'Perhaps the staff is doing all of their laundry at once?' Though plausible, Skylor highly doubted it was likely. She continued to wander the halls, but only the occasional staff member passed her by.
Eventually she saw Clouse walking in the direction of Chen's office. Skylor had little doubt Clouse had been present in the meeting yesterday, but she knew the man wouldn't give her any details about it. Still he stayed freakishly informed on most of the palace inhabitants' comings and goings so he would be a good source of information as to where the Trerians went.
"Clouse!" He continued on his way, giving no sign he'd heard Skylor's call. Ditching decorum Skylor pulled Sound into her voice. "Clouse!" He and anyone within a hundred yards heard her that time. The man turned, his nose curling slightly.
"Yes, Your Highness?"
"Where is everyone?"
Clouse raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "I was under the impression you were aware all the guests- sans Misako- left yesterday."
Taking a deep breath, Skylor ignored the bite in Clouse's words. "I know the rest of the nobles planned on leaving yesterday. To be more specific I should ask, where is Prince Cole and his retinue?"
Clouse resumed his walk. "He also left yesterday."
That froze Skylor in place. "Prince Cole left?"
Clouse continued walking. "Was I not clear?"
Gritting her teeth Skylor matched her pace once more with Clouse. "I was not told he'd be leaving so suddenly. As one royal to another, protocol dictates I partake in his sendoff."
"He obtained what he needed from our scholars and saw no reason to remain here any longer."
Skylor didn't want to admit how deep that sentence struck her. Though her interaction with the prince had been limited, she thought there had been an amiable bond between them. Enough of one that would warrant a proper goodbye at the very least and a discussion about his Element at best.
"I see." It was a total lie but Clouse didn't need to know that. "Thank you for informing me."
"Princess." With a barely perceptible head nod Clouse swept off leaving Skylor behind.
Frowning Skylor drifted toward the courtyard. Maybe the stable hands would know more. But to her disappointment everyone she talked to told a similar story- when they went to bed the Trerian horses were in the barn, but all were gone come morning. 'How did no one hear anything?' Even Chamille, who prided herself in keeping in touch with all the palace gossip, claimed ignorance in the matter. That left one person left to ask but, though she searched all morning, Chen was nowhere to be found.
'This is ridiculous!' Skylor knew the matter shouldn't bother her as much as it did, but something just felt off about the whole thing. Returning to her room Skylor stared out her window. From the second story she could see the tops of buildings over the large wall lining the palace grounds. 'There is another way...'
She didn't have any required appearance that she knew of for the rest of the day and, given her training regimen, it was no longer strange if Skylor disappeared for long periods of time. Skylor's stomach immediately clenched at the thought while her mind continued to run with the idea. 'It would also be a good way to field test Gravity...' Not to mention reckless, stupid, and unbecoming for the Princess and Heir to the throne. Yet that same feeling that screamed something was wrong seemed to pull her toward the window. 'I am so going to regret this.'
Only if she got caught.
Before Skylor's rational side could talk her out of her idea, she changed into a clean set of her training apparel. The leather jerkin and split skirt over leggings would draw much less attention than anything else in her closet. A brown scarf would serve both as protection from the sun, and from prying eyes. Skylor was not so naïve to think there wouldn't be those in the city who would take advantage of a woman traveling alone, let alone if they found out she was the princess. The knife strapped to her belt might deter some of them.
Using Smoke Skylor teleported to the ground outside her window. She kept her appearance hazy in an attempt to keep herself indistinguishable from anyone who might glance her way. When she reached the wall Skylor stopped and looked up. The wall rose nearly fifteen feet (4.6m) above her, a good six feet higher than the ceiling in the training room. Taking a deep breath Skylor dropped Smoke and called to Gravity. She shot upward, wobbling unsteadily the whole way, but she managed to clear the wall without smacking into it. Her descent was a touch too fast and Skylor had to tuck into a roll to avoid any damage to her legs.
Not very pretty but it got the job done. Dusting off her clothes, Skylor hurried away from the wall before a guard got too close. From there Skylor slipped into the streets.
Whatever the unease was that hung over Skylor appeared to have spread to the general populous as well. Though the roads were still full of people, most were going about their business with their heads down. Whispers Skylor didn't quite understand circled around her and she saw many people casting suspicious looks to those around them. Shoving down her worries, Skylor made her way to the western market.
Even if Cole had been supplied by the palace storehouses he would still have to travel this route to go home. Someone must have seen something. Pretending to browse the booths Skylor tried to gauge the willingness of those around her to engage in conversation. Given the worry that hung over the market like a cloud she wasn't that hopeful, but Skylor hadn't come all this way for nothing.
The first two merchants she tried were friendly enough, but as soon as Skylor began to ask about the Elemental Masters their demeanor changed completely and they all but told Skylor to move on. After the third woman literally shoved Skylor away, she became discouraged.
The crowd swelled suddenly before closing around her. Skylor bristled at the close contact. Other than for sparring purposes most people gave her a wide berth, and being around so many people did have an oddly suffocating feeling to it. Skylor was just about to consider using Smoke again when someone's hand brushed hers.
Skylor's vision went red and she clenched her jaw to keep from screaming. It felt like she had just stuck her arm in the fireplace but her whole body felt hot, like she had spontaneously contracted a fever. Her knees wobbled and Skylor had to grab hold of the nearest wooden post to keep from falling over. Indistinct words filtered in and it took several moments to realize someone was talking to her.
"-lady, hey lady what gives?"
Skylor blinked owlishly and looked around. The merchant who's booth she'd just used as support glared at her, his large hands curling into fists. Ignoring him for the moment, Skylor looked behind her to see what- or who- had caused such a reaction. However with the crowd moving and swarming it was impossible to know what just happened. It almost felt like her Amber had been activated, but that was impossible... and without knowing the Element- if in fact in the extreme off chance that was an Element- Skylor couldn't call it to manifest.
"Seriously lady. If you're not buying, get out of here!"
The man's throaty voice snapped Skylor back to the booth. "I-" Her voice cracked and Skylor cleared her throat, "I'm sorry, sir. I'm not sure what came over me."
"Well take care of it somewhere else. I don't need you ruining my business."
A few of the nearest passersby shot curious glances in their direction. One brown-haired man who'd been looking at the table hurriedly backed away.
Skylor tiredly shook her head. "I'm sorry. It was an accident. Have a good day."
She turned to walk away when the man's deep voice suddenly shouted, "Stop right there thief!" Skylor ignored him and continued on her way. She felt movement behind her right before the man caught her wrist and swung her around.
"How dare you steal from me!"
Frozen in shock Skylor could only stare up at the red-faced man, gaping. "I'm sorry. What?"
Notes:
A/n- Plot is happening and I am so excited for what happens next.... until next chapter :)
Chapter 8: Expected Trips and Unexpected Visitors
Notes:
Longer chapter but I didn't want to split anything up. *sing song voice* 🎶 Hope you enjoy 🎶
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kai ran a hand through his hair, grimacing at the dirt that fell out with the action. Living in the desert meant putting up with its sandstorms but that didn't make them enjoyable. And having a room without window panes meant waking up to the wind and covered in sand. With a sigh Kai stepped away from Jay's apartment, making his way to the docks. Normally he and the others didn't crash at Jay's for longer than one night, but in the couple days since Princess Skylor's ball an odd mood had descended over the city.
People were jumpy and Kai had seen several fights start randomly in the markets. It had gotten to the point that Kai secretly feared leaving Nya and Cade home alone. Not that he would ever tell Nya that, but, after speaking privately with Jay (who agreed with Kai), neither Nya or Cade objected to the offer of an extended stay at the inventor's.
However, four people in the small space was almost enough to make Kai scream. So this morning he'd slipped out at dawn and headed for the docks. Hopefully any newcomers to port wouldn't be as uptight as the city inhabitants. Kai hadn't been able to flinch anything the day before since people were so on guard.
He wove through the growing throng of people. In the whispered comments around him Kai heard the newest gossip: Sir Bolobo didn't seem to have made it home. Shuddering internally at the thought of something- or someone- strong enough to take out an Elemental Master Kai stepped up his pace. Soon he arrived near the docks. He kept his head low, trying to avoid being seen. However when a group of four guards came his way, Kai slipped down a side street and began to double back the way he'd come. Glancing over his shoulder to see if the guards had turned, Kai plowed into someone.
"I'm sor-" The words died in his throat and were replaced with a glare. "What in the world are you doing here?"
Cade grinned sheepishly up at him "Surprise?"
Kai grabbed him by the arm and all but dragged him away from the bustling main street. "Cade I've told you a million times you are not to come here!"
"But I've been stuck in the house for three days! And I didn't know you were coming here."
"You were following me without asking! Of course you didn't know where I was going!" Cade didn't have a comeback for that one. Kai inhaled a sharp breath. "Okay, we're leaving now."
"But we just got here! We can't go back empty handed."
"Cade it is too dangerous here-"
"He's right you know." Both boys jumped and whipped around.
A weasley looking man with greasy brown hair stood between them and the entrance back to the main street. Kai glanced behind them to see two more large men closing in quickly. Fighting against the panic rising in his chest Kai tried to keep his outward appearance calm.
"What do you want? We're not looking for trouble."
The small man laughed. "Oh really?" He stepped forward, his face no longer obscured by shadows.
Cade suddenly squeaked and clung tighter to Kai. Kai didn't think much of it until the man pushed up his sleeves. The early morning light caught on a blue tattoo wrapped around his forearm. A blue cobra.
'Oh no.' Kai shifted slightly to keep himself between the man and Cade. A sinking feeling in his gut warned him this wasn't going to end well. The three men pressed closer.
"What do you want?" Kai tried again.
"What do you want?" The man's voice cut like glass on the pavement as he mocked Kai's question. "You come inta 'r streets and ask what we want?" He laughed and stepped closer. Kai felt Cade move behind him and Weasel Face froze.
"Well what have we here? Iffin' I didn't know no better I'd say he looks an awful lot like Skandar's missin' kid. Course it's been awhile."
The sudden nails digging into Kai's back told him Cade understood Weasel's reference. Though Kai didn't need Cade's reaction to know this had just gone from bad to worse.
"Get 'em."
Kai didn't have time to think before the two goons jumped him. He twisted to the side, but Cade's weight made his reaction slower. Ugly Number One managed to clip Kai's side. Kai stumbled, Cade still hanging on to him. The weight of the younger boy threw the both of them to the ground. Before Kai could get up one of the guys grabbed his neck. The next instant had Kai choking in a headlock.
"Let me go. Let me go!" Cade screamed.
Kai couldn't see what was happening, but the terror in Cade's voice made him thrash harder.
"Well whaddya know. He is the missin' brat! Ooo Skandar was angrier than an adder when saw you'd done disappeared on him. He's gonna be so excited to see you again. Said no one's been as fun to play with as you were."
"No! Please-" Cade's plea was cut off with a sharp crack. A cry of pain immediately followed.
Cade's cry of pain.
Something inside Kai snapped. In the red hot haze of anger Kai didn't stop to think, he just reacted. In a blink of an eye the man who'd been holding him was screaming in pain on the ground. Kai didn't even notice, but whirled on the man holding Cade. Ugly Number Two had Cade's arms twisted behind his back while Weasel was yanking Cade's head back by his hair. Pain and fear shone in Cade's eyes and a red mark, in the shape of a hand, could be seen on his cheek.
"Let. My. Brother. GO!" Screaming, Kai launched himself at the men.
Again he wasn't quite sure what happened but in a matter of moments both men lay rolling on the ground screaming obscenities at him. Kai didn't stop to try and figure out what happened- though it looked like two of the men's shirts were smoking?- but he grabbed Cade and the two sprinted from the alley.
They didn't slow until they had reached Jay's. Stumbling inside Kai slammed the door behind them and both boys collapsed, breathing heavily.
"What- what- what?" Cade couldn't get his sentence out.
Kai shook his head. "I don't know. I don't-" He broke off and shook his head. "Are you okay?"
"I-I-" Cade started shaking. Tears pooled in his eyes and spilled down his cheeks.
"Cade?" Hurrying to his side, Kai looked over the younger boy.
Heart wrenching sobs burst from Cade and he latched himself to Kai's waist. "I don't want to go back! Don't let them take me back!"
"I know Cade, I know." Kai wrapped his arms around Cade, resting his chin on the top of Cade's head. "They won't, I promise."
It was moments like this when he remembered how young Cade actually was. Even without knowing his exact age, the kid couldn't be more than ten. And to have to face some of the people who'd made the first few years of his life a literal hell...
Kai held Cade until the younger boy slowly stopped shaking. "You're my brother Cade. Nya and I are going to make sure you stay safe."
Cade surprised Kai with, "How'd you do it?"
"Do what?"
"Get Mezimon off me? I don't remember what happened, but all of a sudden it got really hot and Mezimon's jerkface let go of me."
"I don't- I don't know. All I knew is that they were going to leave you alone if it was the last thing I did."
"The heat felt... safe I guess. I knew you were going to take care of everything."
A lump grew in Kai's throat and he coughed trying to clear it. "Of course I'm gonna take care of you- and Nya. Speaking of, how about we go see what Jay and Nya are up to, eh?"
Gently Kai helped Cade to his feet. Since neither Jay or Nya had come into the main room Kai doubted they were in the apartment. A quick glance in Jay's adjacent workroom showed they weren't there either. 'I wouldn't be surprised if they went out looking for Cade.' Which complicated matters since Kai was not about to leave Cade alone- because that boy was not going to leave the house for the rest of the day if Kai had anything to say about it- but they definitely needed to restock their stores. Kai internally debated what to do when the front door opened again.
Jay and Nya's pinched faces immediately relaxed at the sight of Kai and Cade, but just as quickly Nya scowled.
"Where did you go? We were worried sick!"
"Nya," Kai's tone was unusually sharp. He could see her gearing up to snap back but Kai subtly nodded toward Cade.
Her gaze followed Kai's action and she saw the tear tracks and bruises on Cade's face. Though she had no idea the whole story she immediately snapped her mouth shut. There'd be time for a lecture later.
"I think there's a little bit of soup left. Come on Cade, I'll heat it up for you." Nya took Cade's hand and led him into the kitchen.
"What did happen?" Jay asked in a voice barely above a whisper.
"Hypnobrai." Ignoring the wide-eyed look Jay gave him, Kai continued, "They cornered us, probably for being in their turf, then recognized Cade."
"This is not good."
"You're telling me." Kai ran a hand through his sweaty hair. "We've got to be extra careful now that they know he's still in the city. Even after five years the main guy figured out who Cade is. They didn't get my name but I won't be surprised if there's a mark put out for both of us."
"And they have eyes everywhere..."
"We'll head back to our place tonight and I'll figure something out. In the meantime he doesn't leave the house except to use the privy. I have to get back out there."
"Kai! You just said you have a target on your back!"
"Uh no, I said it's a maybe." Jay glared at Kai. "Look, we need to eat. I'd rather risk my neck and have you all safe than to waste away because we're too hungry to do anything else."
A scowl broke over Jay's face. "If I could just catch a break with my inventions we wouldn't need you 'risking your neck.'"
Sighing, Kai didn't disagree. "Keep at it. It's only a matter of time right?" Empty words but it was all he had at the moment. "I'm going to tell Cade that I'm heading out. See you later."
He walked toward the kitchen.
"-but if dragons aren't real why do we have so many legends about them?" Well it sounded like Cade had started to bounce back to normal.
"And there's legends of tiny rock trolls stealing socks. I highly doubt those are real-"
The conversation stopped when Kai poked his head in. "Cade, I have to make another errand. You and Nya will head back to our place before dusk okay?" He looked pointedly at Nya. She rolled her eyes but gave him a thumbs up.
Cade frowned at Kai's words before nodding reluctantly. Kai gave a- somewhat strained- smile to both his siblings and hurried out of the apartment. Returning to the eastern docks was a hard no-go, so Kai headed toward the western market. 'The more space the better.' He thought grimly.
Drifting through the crowd, Kai's hands worked by themselves to relieve passersby of their purses. However his thoughts kept running back to the altercation earlier. It didn't make sense. How had he bested three of the gang members? And what was that heat? Now that Kai had a moment to think he realized how powerful he'd felt in that moment. It had been like nothing could stop him. But what was it?
Kai shook his head. Food first, and sorting out these weird emotions later. Maybe never. That was an option too. Beyond the hypervigilant need to keep Cade safe, a part of Kai wanted to forget the whole thing. The other part he squashed down to a tiny box in his head. The questions there were too dangerous to dwell on.
Kai's hand brushed someone's and he suddenly felt fatigued, like he'd just run from one end of the market to the other. Confused he drifted back from the crowd toward the row of merchant shops. He pretended to browse the jewelry displayed when a loud thump came from nearby. Jumping he looked up to see a young woman leaning heavily against the side of the booth. The merchant stepped forward and started snapping at her, his back now to Kai.
Grinning at his luck Kai grabbed two bracelets and a necklace, sliding them up his sleeve. He hurriedly stepped back melting into the crowd and was about to move on when he heard,
"Stop! Thief!"
Kai ducked down a side alley but the shouting didn't get any closer. Puzzled, he looked back into the street. Dread rolled over him as he saw the man grabbing the girl who had almost fainted. While it was possible that she was also a thief, Kai figured the man noticed the missing jewelry. Now the woman was paying for his choices.
'You could still get away scott free...' A little voice whispered in his mind. Kai almost listened, but he looked back once more and saw the woman standing frozen. The man was holding her with one meaty hand and raising his other in a fist.
Kai made his decision. He hurried back to the table, deftly sliding the stolen goods back to their original position on the table.
"Clara there you are!" Both the merchant and woman looked at him, the woman with confusion and the man with anger.
"This woman belongs to you?"
Before Kai could answer, the woman snapped out of her stupor. Her face turned red and with a quick twist of her arm she broke the man's hold on her wrist.
"I would appreciate it if you didn't speak about me as if I weren't here. And that you would have proof before daring to accuse me of theft."
"You accused my sister of what?" Kai really hoped the woman would play along so they both could get the heck out of there. She shot him a sideways glance but didn't contradict his words.
"She," the man spat, "pretended to have a fainting spell and stole several pieces of-" the man turned back to the table and his jaw visibly dropped. Everything was where it was supposed to be. "I don't- but she-" He broke off and studied Kai. "Don't I know you-?"
"You better watch your accusations." The woman interrupted and glared at the merchant before spinning on her heel, stalking towards Kai. "Come brother, our presence is not wanted here." She dragged Kai back toward the ally and Kai couldn't help be surprised at the strength at which she pulled him.
Away from prying eyes she let go of Kai and crossed her arms. This close Kai could see she was younger than he'd initially thought, probably around his own age. She also had the most captivating amber eyes he'd ever seen.
"I would say thank you for intervening but why do I have a feeling you were the cause of it in the first place?"
Kai snapped out of his thoughts. Direct and to the point. Okay. He could roll with this. "Because I used your dizzy spell as a distraction?" Oops. That didn't come out right.
But the young woman only rolled her eyes. "I figured as much. Thank you for your honesty. Now if you'll excuse me I really must be going."
"I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to get you in trouble."
"Thank you. And I really do need to go. I'm on a time sensitive errand."
"Anything I could help with?" The offer was out of Kai's mouth before he registered what he was saying. The woman raised an eyebrow at him and Kai shrugged. "It's the least I could do to make up for, uh, that." Kai gestured in the direction of the formally irate merchant.
She studied him for a long moment. "I suppose it couldn't hurt. But I will warn you if you try to take my purse I won't hesitate to have you turned over to the authorities."
"Understood. I'm Kai by the way."
A ghost of a smile appeared on her face and she extended a hand. "You can call me Sky."
Kai didn't miss the phrasing of her introduction, but he didn't push the point. After all, Tynan didn't know his real name- theoretically anyway. "What is it you're here for?"
"Information primarily."
"On what?"
Sky hesitated. "The guests of the palace."
Red flags rose within Kai. He might be a lot of things, but a potential risk to national security was not one of them. "For what purpose?"
To his surprise Sky let out a lilting laugh. "Nothing nefarious I assure you. There have been some strange goings on that I want to get to the bottom of." Her voice grew serious. "I- I want to ensure there's no budding danger within our borders."
She said it with such conviction that Kai's instincts believed her. "What about the guests?" Just because part of him started to trust her didn't mean he was a complete idiot. Though the weird fluttering in his stomach when she looked at him might say otherwise.
"I'm mostly wondering what routes home they took and if there's been news of their safe arrival home."
Kai still felt uneasy with the topic but slowly nodded. "Funny you should mention it, because there's been... rumors... that Sir Bolobo didn't make it home."
Sky jumped like she'd been shocked. "What?!"
"Nothing's been confirmed but a couple people claimed that his carriage up and disappeared between here and the Northern Pass. His home is two days from here so there's been no confirmation from the estate that he didn't make it, but it's spreading like a sandstorm anyway."
"This is so much worse than I feared." Sky's whisper didn't seem aimed at Kai so he waited. After a moment her eyes flicked back to Kai. "What of the foreign prince. Has he been sent on his way as well?"
"Uh maybe? If he did he didn't come this way. The market would be abuzz since it's not everyday we get royalty down here." Sky flushed and looked away, puzzling Kai since he didn't see anything to be overly upset about in what he'd just said.
"Even if it had been last night?"
Kai snorted. "No one goes out on the streets at night if they can help it 'round here. But even if it had been in the middle of the night everyone here would have known this morning."
"So you're sure the prince didn't come this way?"
"Uh, yeah."
"This is the fastest route back to Trerian if he didn't come this way could he have taken a longer route? But that wouldn't make sense..." Sky trailed off, her eyes glazed in thought. Kai stood there awkwardly, wondering if she was all there upstairs. Her amber eyes locked on to Kai again and he felt his breath catch. "You said you would help me. Can you think of likely routes that a party heading for the Sea of Sand would take?"
"Suuuuuure. Though I don't know why anyone would since the areas of town just get more shady from here."
Sky threw her arms up exasperated. "Exactly my thought. But I have to check them out anyway."
"Did you not hear a word I just said? Those areas are dangerous."
Sky drew herself upright. "I understand there is risk but for me it is well worth it. I won't ask you to come if you aren't comfortable doing so."
It took Kai a few seconds to answer. No, he really didn't want to overly risk his neck for someone he just met... but at the same time he'd never met anyone quite like Sky. And he couldn't let her go alone to places he knew would be dangerous- especially for a young woman. Although the dagger hanging from her belt didn't look ornamental.
"I know these streets better than anyone. I can get you there and back safely."
She gave him a brisk nod. "Then let's be off."
The next several hours brought nothing but more unanswered questions. Those who were willing to talk to Kai and Sky had nothing helpful to say. With each response Kai could see a heaviness weight Sky down further and further. After the fourth route had been struck down Kai cleared his throat.
"We're not too far from where I have some supplies stashed. There's not much but I have water and a little food if you want to take a break."
Sky sighed and wiped at the sweat gathering on her forehead. "I wouldn't say no to some water. I'm sorry this has turned out to be a wild goose chase."
"Believe me when I say I've had worse trips in the city."
'Like this morning for example...' Shaking his head to force that thought away Kai started toward home. Sky seemed to have a lot on her mind so Kai didn't try to engage her in conversation. Her eyes came back into focus when Kai announced their arrival.
She looked up warily at the ramshackle, two-story building. Kai flushed slightly but knew she didn't know him and probably was going to remain on guard.
"I know it doesn't look like much but it's not going to collapse on us." Kai led the way inside.
Grabbing their water pitcher Kai filled two cups and offered one to Sky. She nodded in thanks, but Kai noticed she waited to drink until after he had taken a few sips from his cup. Once she finished her water Sky set down the cup and drifted to the windows.
"I'm sorry we couldn't find what you were looking for."
Sky stared out at the city. Fewer people filled the streets as the evening had grown long. The brownstone buildings glowed in the sunlight, and the keening of a falcon could be heard over the people below. She suddenly gripped the windowsill so hard her knuckles turned white.
"Sky?"
Sky jolted and let go of the windowsill. "I apologize. There is much I have to puzzle through and so far no one has been able to give me answers I need."
"If you don't mind my asking, why do you care so much? It seems like you're wasting your time. The nobles and royal house hardly care about us."
Sky's eyes narrowed, but she looked more confused than angry. "What do you mean by that?"
'Do you not see what goes on out there?'
"The king's guards spend more time bullying the people than protecting them. Tariffs and taxes have raised the cost of goods so that many of us can't afford to actually purchase anything. Much of what we produce goes to fund the lesser nobles extravagant lifestyles."
"What work options are available besides that for the merchants?"
Kai scoffed. "You're definitely not from around here." He waved his hand toward the dusty streets. "Trades run in families. If you don't have a family trade," Kai gestured vaguely around the room, "you're screwed. Even then, most people barely made enough to feed themselves, let alone pay someone else. And even if they could, those aren't the type to dirty themselves by interacting with street rats." Kai's face darkened. "At least for anything other than entertainment or slave labor."
A green hue came over Sky's face. "I'm sorry."
Kai shrugged. "I've made do for myself and my siblings. If you don't know where you want to go, then it doesn't matter what path you take."
"Do you truly not know where you want to go from here?"
Kai opened his mouth, but promptly snapped it shut. She had him there. Even if in reality all he wanted to do was move up in the world- for Nya and Cade's sake.
"I'm sorry that was rather insensitive and it's not my business to pry into your personal affairs. Though I do hope the best for you and your siblings."
Speaking of siblings... Kai frowned and looked out the window again. Dusk was fast approaching and they weren't back yet. "They were supposed to be back by now. I'm not sure what's keeping them."
"Should we go look for them?"
Though he appreciated the 'we' in her question more than he'd ever admit, Kai emphatically shook his head. "As I said earlier, the streets here are not safe at night. And with you not knowing them or the way things work down here it would be more dangerous than helpful if you came with me."
Sky frowned, but didn't deny Kai's words. "Okay so what then?"
Kai began to pace between the window to the door. "They know to get to agreed places on time so something might have happened." He looked back outside to the rapidly darkening sky. "I'll give them a couple more minutes before I start looking for them."
A sharp screech came from the door hinges on the first floor followed quickly by the heavy thuds of rapidly moving feet. Kai's eyes widened in alarm and he ran back to the window.
"Oi there 'e is!" A rough shout rang through the night.
Kai stumbled back to Sky. "It's the palace guards!"
"What?! Oh no, this is bad."
"No time for words. Come on," Kai grabbed Sky's arm and rushed back to the window. He jumped onto the windowsill, attempting to pull Sky with him. She dug her heeling into the ground to hold herself back.
"Are you crazy??"
Kai glanced down at the road before looking earnestly into her eyes. "I need you to trust me."
She hesitated and studied Kai hard. The small, rapidly decreasing, logical portion of Kai's brain knew asking her to climb out of a second story window was not a normal request for first encounters, but if she was found with him the guards would take her into custody without asking any questions. She didn't deserve that.
After what seemed like an eternity Sky nodded resolutely.
"Alright, then jump!"
The fall didn't seem as rushed as Kai would have expected, but he didn't have time to wonder about that before they landed on a pile of hay strewn between the houses. Kai pulled Sky toward the back of the house while trying to calm his anxious heart rate. The guards jumping out of the shadows didn't help in that endeavor.
Kai turned back the way they'd come, but it was too late. Six guards surrounded the pair, effectively boxing them in. Shoving Sky behind him Kai faced the guards. His eyes caught on the purple insignia on the leader's chest and his heart thudded harder. Each captain had their own color designation but everyone in the city knew to fear the purple snake of Captain Pyth.
"Seems we finally cornered some of the vermin polluting our streets." Pyth sounded almost bored. "Given the number of complaints I had expected a more exciting chase. Pity." He raised his sword at the pair. "Get them."
Just because they were cornered didn't mean Kai would let the guards off easily. He ducked under the first guard's punch and quickly swept the man's legs out from under him. Kai turned to the next guard, barely dodging to the side in time to avoid being skewered by an outstretched sword. Stepping in close he aimed a kick at the man's hand. His sword flew to the ground. Sky grabbed it and ran into the fight.
"What," Panted Kai, "are you doing?"
"Saving your hide!"
And doing a fairly good job of it too. Kai didn't hide his amazement as she disarmed two more guards' weapons before round kicking one in the head and the other in the chest. Both were down for the count. Mesmerized as he was he momentarily forgot his own peril... until a sword point dug into the small of his back. With a surprised yelp Kai attempted to run but strong hands grabbed his arms and threw him backwards. He landed on his back with a sword inches from his chest.
"Hold!"
Pyth's voice rang with such authority that Sky hesitated in her swing. The remaining guards jumped at the advantage. Sky was on her knees with a blade at her throat in a matter of seconds.
Harsh chuckles filled the ally as Pyth looked at his downed prey. "So the street rat's found another mouse to keep him company. Did you tire of the other ones?"
Kai snarled at the captain, though it was more to hide the fear welling within him. Had Pyth or the guards done something with Cade and Nya? Kai had tried so hard to keep them from being associated with himself in case something like this were to ever happen. Apparently it hadn't been enough. He'd failed them, and Sky.
From his vantage point he could just see her face in the waning light. To his surprise she didn't look scared. If anything she seemed livid. Pyth noticed as well.
"What have we here? The start of a new cohort of thieves? Or something else?" Pyth made a lewd gesture. Kai writhed on the ground wanting to punch his smug face. Pyth turned to face him. "Didn't like that, huh? Well I'll tell you what I don't like, having to waste my time and deal with riffraff. But don't worry I'll teach you a lesson you won't soon forget."
He raised his sword and motioned for the guards to lift Kai. Roughly they jerked him to his feet, simultaneously twisting his arms behind his back. Pyth stalked forward with an evil glint in his eye. Kai clenched his jaw, trying to steel his nerves for what was about to come.
"Enough Captain, release him at once!"
Both Kai and Pyth snapped their attention back to Sky. She had somehow managed to floor her guard and stood almost regally.
"Who do you think you are?" Pyth shouted as he took a step towards her.
"You heard me Captain." Her words boomed. "Release him, by order of the princess." With a flourish she pulled the scarf off her head allowing the guards to get a good look at her for the first time. There was a collective gasp and almost as one the guards bent in a deep bow, the brutes holding Kai forcing him down with them.
"Y-your Majesty, fo-forgive me!"
Kai didn't know if anyone had ever heard Pyth's voice so fearful before. He might have enjoyed the scene more if his own feeling of shock wasn't so potent. Sky, Skylor. Man, he was an idiot. To be fair he wasn't ever expecting to run into the princess, but still...
"Is this how you deal with the citizens of Ouroboros you are sworn to protect?"
"He's a known criminal Highness. We've had orders for his arrest for a long time now."
Sky- Princess Skylor- raised an unimpressed eyebrow and Kai's heart clenched. Why wouldn't she take the guard's side? He internally winced when he thought of their earlier conversation. He'd practically insulted her family and then just made her jump out of a window. Whatever punishment the guards had been planning was going to be so much worse now...
"Even if that's so there's no need for the display of violence I just saw- and had to defend myself from."
Kai could tell he wasn't the only one surprised by her words. Though a healthy dose of fear also showed on Pyth's face. He had just, inadvertently, ordered an attack on the Crown Princess and insulted her honor.
"I beg your forgiveness, Highness. Because of his slippery nature we were told to use whatever force necessary. This vermin," he grabbed Kai's neck and shook him roughly, "has been well known to avoid the law of the land."
"Oh because you're so much better." Kai muttered, not particularly quietly.
Pyth released his grip on Kai's neck only to jerk his head up by his hair. "You will regret those words."
"Captain!"
Pyth quickly let go of Kai.
Princess Skylor glared at him. "It seems you need to spend more time with your regulations handbook. Any physical attack implemented after a suspect has been apprehended is strictly forbidden. And it is the commanding officer's responsibility to positively identify the suspect in custody so as not to perform an inaccurate arrest of anyone caught in the crossfire." Princess Skylor spoke almost in rhythm, as if she was reciting the law word for word. "Additionally I order that you release Kai and turn him over to my custody. It's already been shown you are not impartial in his case."
"With all due respect, Your Highness, I can't."
"You dare refuse a direct order from the royal family?"
Pyth visibly swallowed. "Only when it conflicts with that of another."
"Explain." Princess's Skylor's word lashed like a whip.
"Master Clouse, by proxy order of the King, personally commanded his arrest."
Kais blood ran cold. His less than legal exploits had made it to the king's ears? He was so dead. Though what hurt most was the fact Nya and Cade wouldn't know what happened to him...
The princess's eyes narrowed. "I will be speaking with my father and his proxy about this, but you will not harm him in the meantime."
"Of course, Your Highness." Pyth bowed again.
Glaring at all the guards, Princess Skylor made an impatient motion with her head. "Lets get home and get this sorted."
The group fell into formation but the captain's eyes, glittering with anger, locked on Kai's restrained form. Despite what the princess said, Kai suspected the captain's barely restrained wrath would land on him before the night was over...
Notes:
I've had part of this chapter written since I started planning out the whole story *insert giddy fangirling* I really wish we got more Kailor in canon but at least we can see the ship sail in fanfiction 😏
Chapter 9: Behind Closed, and Guarded, Doors
Chapter Text
A knock on the door forced Clouse out of his thoughts. Marching over he flung open the door ready to fillet the person who dared-
"Captain Pyth sent me to inform you he has a report you "won't want to wait for" in the lower levels." Morro spoke in a clipped tone before Clouse could start on his tirade. "This is for you." He shoved a piece of paper in Clouse's direction.
Snatching the note, Clouse quickly scanned it. A smug smirk came over his face. Four words written in a tight scrawl filled the scrap of paper: Orders fulfilled. Packages secure. He stepped back and shut the door in Morro's face. There was nothing more he needed from the guard at the moment and he couldn't care less what Morro did with himself right then. Things were moving much more smoothly than Clouse had anticipated.
Donning his darkest robes, Clouse let himself indulge in a giddy breath. This was actually happening. 'No. It's not close to over yet.' Closing his eyes Clouse regained his composure. The next few days could be critical for his plans.
Less than a minute later Clouse blinked in the torchlight of the underground caverns. Instead of going to his workroom Clouse descended further into the earth's depths. He emerged in a giant cave pockmarked with stalagmites and stalactites. Thick smoke lingered in the air, the product of roaring fires scattered about the room. Even at this time of night several individuals were huddled over tables near the fires, movements restricted by thick chains glowing eerily off their ankles and wrists in the light of the flames. Down here there was no night or day. There was only work.
Not even sparing them a cursory glance, Clouse stalked past the slaves and the guards stationed along the way. Though he didn't need to look at them to feel the spiking of fear charge through the room when the men and women took note of his presence. 'As it should be.' And soon the whole kingdom would grovel at his feet.
Leaving the large cavern behind, Clouse took a side tunnel. Groans from tired and injured workers echoed among the walls, some of it from the cells that lay ahead... some from the memory of the cruelty that had been taking place in these halls for decades. With a final turn Clouse entered the room used for Pyth's headquarters. He swept the door open without bothering to knock.
Pyth sat reclined at his desk, a rather self satisfied smirk on his face. "M'lord."
"I was told you had an urgent report."
Pyth tilted his head toward the far corner and for the first time Clouse noticed the figure lying prone on the floor, arms pulled back by large gray shackles. Though partially obscured by shadows, and a bag still covering their head, the new prisoner was decidedly male.
"So you were successful. I admit I had my doubts."
"With all due respect sir, this is only part of today's raid. An opportunity presented itself for the two highest targets you'd put out."
That was even better than Clouse had hoped for and yet... the line's on Pyth's face meant he had more to the story to share. "Were there any complications?" A slight grimace from Pyth was all the confirmation Clouse needed. "What. Happened?"
"At 1700 hours one of the merchants in the Bixen District reported a man attempting to steal from him- a man who matched the description of Ronin's target. The man was seen with a woman and they led us on a wild goose chase through the city until we managed to track them to a hideout on the north side of the city. They resisted arrest. In the scuffle the woman announced herself as- as Princess Skylor."
A heavy silence fell between the men. Rage Clouse couldn't begin to describe twisted within him. "Not only did the princess manage to get past your men undetected, but you hadn't noticed she'd placed herself in the way to be tipped off by our plans?" Clouse's voice rose in pitch until his shout reverberated in the small room.
Pyth winced, his face noticeably pale in the torchlight. "With all due respect sir, we made it known we were arresting him for being a thief. The princess has little reason to suspect ulterior motives were involved."
Clouse shot a bolt of magic at Pyth, freezing the man in place. "You had better hope she doesn't come sniffing around or you will pay dearly for that breach in security." He released Pyth and the captain fell hard against his desk, gasping for breath.
Ignoring the sound, Clouse continued, "I want the urchin in the castle's dungeon. The last thing I need is for him to get a glimpse of what's going on down here and run into someone on the way to the cave. This one," Clouse nudged the inert figure with his boot, "can go with the group waiting for the ceremony. Make sure every precaution is in place to keep either from escaping." Clouse narrowed his eyes. "If he tries to run you'll have much worse consequences than when the blind musician managed to get away."
Coughing to clear his throat, Pyth shook his head. "I've taken the liberty of giving him water laced with your sleep power. He'll get regular doses of it for the next couple days. That should keep the fight out of him."
Though irritated by the Captain's invasion of his stores, Clouse grudgingly admitted it was a sound plan. "Just don't overdose him. I need him alive... for the time being. I believe he'll be of use in another area that's been giving me trouble lately."
Pyth nodded and struck a miniature gong sitting on his desk. Seconds later two guards marched into the room.
"Put him near the other one. Full security measures."
The two men saluted and hauled the unconscious man up by his arms. They dragged him from the room, leaving Clouse and Pyth alone.
"What are your next orders sir?"
Clouse stroked his chin. "Keep a low profile for the next three days. That will give enough time to see if the peasants react. If there's no further unrest move to the next targets, still discretely if at all possible."
"Understood."
"And the other projects down here?"
"The newest shipment of vengestone came yesterday. I have the men working on purifying it now so it can be given to the blacksmiths within the next day or so." The color had now returned to Pyth's face.
"Good. And any further unrest stirred up by the Sound's attempted escape?"
"No. The speed in which we caught him and the punishment meted out quelled any unrest that might have been brewing."
"Be sure it stays that way. Though it's doubtful any of them could get out of here, the last thing I need is for them to get hopeful," Clouse spat the word, "right before the plan launches."
"I'll have my men work them hard. They'll be too tired to try anything."
"Make sure of it." Deeming the conversation over, Clouse swept out of the room.
His steps took him back to the smoky workroom. Ignoring the low level workers Clouse headed straight for the foreman's station cut two stories high into the cavern wall. At the top his current foreman, Cryptor, stood near the edge of the outcropping, his eyes constantly moving over individuals at work. The man's lithe form might have been less imposing than others, such as Pyth, but the man's stealth and ruthlessness was second to none. Exactly why he'd lasted longer than any of the previous foreman.
He nodded curtly to Clouse, barely sparing him a glance. "Sir."
Probably the only one of Clouse's men who could do such and not suffer reprimand. "Status update."
Cryptor motioned to a guard standing nearby. The man approached, taking Cryptor's spot on the rock. "If you'll follow me." Cryptor briskly led Clouse down and through another archway cut into the ground.
The air around the men grew even hotter, smoke mixing with sulfur creating a thick, noxious, fog. Soon they were met with a giant metal door. Four guards stood in front, both to keep away anyone who might dare to wander this way... and to keep in those on the other side of the door. All four saluted in unison upon seeing Cryptor and Clouse, before moving to the side to make a path for the men.
With a deep groan the door swung open. Inside several more guards stood, weapons in hand. Their postures relaxed some, seeing it was their own superiors walking through the door, but all kept their weapons brandished. The room was a chaotic spread of metal, wood, tools and scaffolding. Several individuals sat at a stone table in the middle of the room, though they had little choice in the matter. Thick chains shackled to both arms and legs were secured to bolts built into the benches.
Currently a large section of parchment was spread between them. Schematics that had been Clouse's ambition for so long were slowly becoming a reality, if the giant metal shell taking up the size of a small house was anything to go by.
"How much longer?" Clouse's voice cracked like a whip.
One of the men, so covered in soot, dirt and sweat it was impossible to make out his features, briefly clenched his fist. The action caused his chain to rattle and seemed to remind the man of his position. "The design is almost finished." His voice was hoarse. "But even if I make it to your specifications, none of us have the knowledge to actually make it work."
"Do as you're told and leave the knowledge portion to me."
The man looked up briefly, fire from the hazy room dancing darkly in his eyes. "As you say, sir." He spat the word out with a mocking bite.
Fast as a blink one of the soldiers stepped forward, striking a baton across the man's face. He let out a small gasp, but made no other indication of pain even as blood flowed freely from his nose and lip. The others seated at the table flinched, but were unable to intervene.
"Cryptor it appears you've grown too soft with the slaves if they think they can speak such."
Cryptor glared at the group gathered. "On my word, he'll regret that." He gestured to two men. They unhooked the man from the table and dragged him in front of Cryptor. "Nothing permanent. Unfortunately we still require his mind and hands- when he chooses to apply them correctly." The guards nodded and hauled the man from the room.
Clouse looked at the other occupants of the table, all sufficiently cowed. 'Fear always works.' Satisfied he moved his attention to the tabletop, running a critical eye over the parchment. No flaws as far as he could see. "And the newest supply order?"
Cryptor pointed to a large cart near an open faced forge. "Thirty new sets of shackles finished. They'd be done by now, but using vengestone proves too difficult for any of the general smiths."
"I want them done by week's end. I need everything ready. How much longer for the contraption?"
"Two weeks max for the outer hull. What you propose for the inner workings... even with those currently gathered I don't know how soon they'll be able to have a working prototype, let alone the full scale model."
Clouse bared his teeth in a feral grin. "I believe I found a solution for that." He didn't elaborate further and Cryptor didn't ask. "I am pleased with how things are progressing. Make sure it stays that way."
"Sir." Cryptor tipped his head.
"I must return before my absence is noted. Keep me informed." Without bothering to wait for Cryptor's response, Clouse teleported himself back to his rooms.
The sun had long since set, though Clouse's time piece showed it wasn't past nine o'clock yet. The king would be expecting him within the half hour. Stifling the irritation that came with the thought, Clouse quickly changed into more suitable attire. He rubbed his temples. Now to deal with the pompous king and his entirely too coincidentally placed daughter. Stalking from his room Clouse had barely gone ten strides when light footsteps sounded behind him. 'Speak of the devil.' Smoothing his features into a cool mask, Clouse continued forward as if he had no indication someone was following him.
"Clouse!"
Oh how he loathed her use of Sound. Not that he showed it as he turned to meet the irate princess. "Your Highness?"
She strode toward him purposefully, eyes narrowed but otherwise as outwardly calm as Clouse himself portrayed. "You and I need to speak. Now."
"Your Highness knows your father is expecting me. The council meeting is due to start soon."
"My father is always late. You have a few minutes."
"Are you insinuating a that your father-"
"Do not attempt to divert the subject."
A small grimace escaped Clouse at the assault on his eardrums. "My apologies. What would you like to discuss?"
"Your blatant failure at training the men under you in the just due process."
"I'm afraid I have no idea what you mean, Princess." Clouse made to continue down the hall, only to find himself suspended from the ability to move.
"You'll find Gravity a force to be reckoned with." Skylor stated dryly. "Now if you'd be so kind..." She abruptly released Clouse and he stumbled forward at the lack of resistance. "Your men 'arrested', if you'd call such a debacle such, a young man from the market today. However, not only did your men not give adequate reason at the time of the arrest, but they did not verify the identity of the man or those around him." Skylor lifted her arm and pulled down her sleeve. A bruise, clearly in the shape of a hand, stood out blue and black against her skin. "I can assure you Captain Zane has never shown such brutality in all the times we've trained. This came from Captain Pyth's own regiment- the very one you boast is best in the kingdom." She pulled her sleeve back down and crossed her arms. "Pardon me if I'm beginning to doubt your word on the matter."
"My deepest apologies." Clouse bowed from the waist. "I assure you I will launch a full scale investigation in the matter."
"And the man arrested?"
"He is a well known thief and now has kidnapping added to his charges. He will remain imprisoned while the matter is investigated."
"Kidnapping?" An edge entered Skylor's voice that Clouse couldn't decipher.
"You were missing for an entire afternoon and found in the company of that urchin."
Skylor threw her arms in the air in a very unprincesslike manner. "So you immediately jump to the conclusion he kidnapped me?" Quicker than a breath Skylor withdrew a dagger from somewhere on her person and teleported inches from Clouse. "I think you'll find he would be very hard pressed to have completed such a feat."
"Duly noted." Pointedly at that, as the princess kept the dagger entirely too close for comfort. "However I'm afraid the due process, as you put it, requires he remain in custody until a full trial can be held."
A smug note of satisfaction rose within Clouse when he saw the anger burn in Skylor's eyes. Her hand started smoking and Clouse noted it wasn't the translucency that came with Smoke, but that of a fire burning hot. Skylor seemed unaware of her actions. This was certainly a new puzzle, but if his suspicions about the Elements making themselves known... it would be well worth the trouble one meddling princess could cause.
"If you'll excuse me." Skylor didn't attempt to stop him again.
Practiced steps took Clouse to the King's antechamber. The soldiers stationed outside the room nodded to Clouse and opened the door, closing it behind Clouse. To his surprise, Chen was already seated at the table waiting for him. "Sire."
Chen looked up from his goblet of wine, a scowl crossing his features. "Why did I have to hear from my daughter before you about your recent dealings in the city? Or the fact that Skylor is aware of such dealings to begin with?"
"It seems the Princess decided to... take a field trip alone. I assure you, Your Majesty, I have no desire to include her in what we've been working on."
"She is to remain in the dark until after we've finished. She wouldn't understand that this is for her good, and the good of the kingdom. I believe I've made that clear." Chen narrowed his eyes at Clouse.
Clouse tipped his head in acknowledgement. "I've already spoken to my men. They will be much more careful moving forward."
"They had better be. Now tell me, how are things in the lower levels?"
Chapter 10: Painful and Pronounced Realizations
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Fourteen year old Kai skirted the thick crowd. He glanced up at the sky. The sun hung low along the western horizon. His heart rate accelerated and he picked up his pace. Nya expected him home now and he still hadn't left the docks. She was going to kill him. Hopefully the apple and hard cheese in his pockets would decrease her fury.
Shaking his head Kai looked at the swarm of people before him. It would take over an hour to get home if he kept to his usual route. His gaze darted to the broken cobblestone paths leading between buildings. There was a reason most people avoided those. Kai ran a hand through his hair. Get home a half hour sooner, or possibly not get home at all?
'Oh what the heck.' Kai darted down the side street, keeping a clipped pace. Probably not his smartest choice, but what Nya didn't know wouldn't hurt her. 'Unless it gets you killed.' The small, occasionally rational, part of his brain hissed. With practiced ease Kai ignored the words.
The alleyway felt unnaturally quiet, especially since the crowded street was only a block behind him. Something felt so off about this place that Kai started to backtrack toward the main road when a muffled whimper came nearby. The crack of skin on skin abruptly cut off the sound. Kai cringed, expecting a scream to follow, but the heavy silence returned. If anything that was more disconcerting than a scream would have been. The person on the receiving end didn't expect any help.
Kai half turned, ready to dart back to the relative safety of the crowd, but his foot caught on a loose stone. Unable to catch himself in time Kai fell to his hands and knees. During his mad scramble to get up, he found himself near a building with a small window at his current eye level. Before he could move, a man's voice burst through the window from the room below.
"-no good, two timing brat!" Another crack resounded and this time the whimper came again. "You should be grateful for what you get! Pull another scheme like that and I have half a mind to sell you to the Fangpyre the next time they ask. At least then I'd get my month's worth from you."
A blow that might as well have been physical hit Kai's gut. The Fangpyre gang specialized in passing goods on the black-market. "Goods" that included selling humans as chattel to a fate worse than death. Kai shook violently. He had to get out of there before anyone noticed him-
His plan died as soon as his frantic gaze caught a glimpse of the occupants of the basement.
A giant bear of a man stood in the middle of what barely could be called a room, the space dark and dirty brown. His fist was raised above his head, the sleeve of his shirt falling to reveal a blue snake tattoo on his forearm. Seeing the man's affiliation with the Hypnobrai sent a jolt of adrenaline through Kai again, but what really stayed his planned escape was the figure huddled beneath the irate man.
A boy.
A tiny little thing, looking no older than three. Even through the flimsy piece of cloth and the dirt that clung to the boy, Kai could see bruises and cuts littered about his body. He was covering his head with his arms in a feeble attempt to ward off the much larger man's blows. All at once the boy's eyes cracked open and he looked toward the window, his emerald eyes so full of pain freezing Kai to the spot.
Something inside Kai snapped. Whatever the boy had done he didn't deserve this fate- no one did- but especially not someone so young. And, though Kai and Nya were barely scraping by, Kai resolved right then that he was going to rescue the kid. Somehow.
The man stepped forward, blocking Kai's view of the child. The trance holding Kai in place broke. Gritting his teeth Kai knew he had to leave for now. He couldn't do anything with the man present- that would only be signing his own death warrant- but when night came, he was going to rescue that boy.
A hammer to the skull would have been kinder than the headache that greeted Kai as awareness trickled in. Groaning Kai let his head loll to the side. The pain increased exponentially and Kai stopped. 'Whaaa?' It hurt too much to think. And, now that he had some level of consciousness to notice, it hurt to breathe.
Content to lay where he was, Kai tried to pull together the garbled thoughts and images running through his mind, not at all helped by the vivid dream, well memory, playing in the corners of his brain. Why did he hurt so much? Kai took mental stock of what else hurt. Besides his head and ribs his face also throbbed in time with something in his back. Using what felt like a superhuman effort, Kai cracked his eyes open.
For a terrifying moment Kai wondered if he had gone blind. After a few frantic blinks Kai's eyes began to adjust to the darkness around him. Stone walls slowly came into view, and dim shadows along the floor of crisscrossing bars. Anxiety slammed into Kai. Ignoring his pounding head and torso, Kai struggled upward.
Cold metal bit into his ankles and wrists. The rattle of chains that accompanied the effort confirmed Kai's fears. He looked down to see dull gray shackles connected to each other by a short length of chain. On reflex he jerked his wrists, but the metal only dug further into his flesh. 'No! No, no, no, no!'
Memories from- how long ago had it been? Kai had no way of telling how long he'd been unconscious- assaulted his mind. The princess, Captain Pyth... his guards. Kai's already shallow breaths came in gasps.
He'd been arrested.
Though fuzzier than his other memories, Kai remembered being hauled to the palace. There he'd been led to the dungeon away from the princess. Then the guards... the numerous bruises scattered across his body all flared in agony. So much for the princess's order to leave him alone.
Kai slumped against the wall, the burst of adrenaline overwhelmed by sheer exhaustion and pain. Trailing the room with his eyes Kai could make out a barred door, more of a gate, across from him. A narrow window sat high on the wall above his head. The only light came from flickering torches down the hall.
A skittering sound came from the corner. Kai suppressed a shiver. Just because the guards called him a street rat did not mean he affiliated himself with the real ones. He tugged again at the chains, with no results.
Kai blinked back the sudden prickling in his eyes. 'Nya, Cade... are they okay? And if I'm gone-' Kai shuddered at that thought. He was their main provider. Not that they didn't have street smarts, but Kai did everything he could to keep them out of the guards' way... If Kai's head wasn't still pounding he would have slammed it against the wall in frustration.
'But it was inevitable. The guards were going to catch up at some point.' The thought did nothing to help the nausea churning in Kai's stomach. He took a couple deep breaths, wincing as his ribs cried out in protest, and tried to settle his thoughts. Easier said than done, especially since he still had no idea if Cade and Nya were okay.
"Kai!"
Oh great. Now he was hallucinating Cade's voice. The guards must have clocked him harder than he originally thought.
"Kai!" His name came again, louder and more insistent this time.
Kai huffed a sigh. Even in his head Cade was still obnoxious.
"I know you're awake now! Will you answer me already?"
Now that didn't sound like something a hallucination would say- not that Kai could admit to having auditory hallucinations before. Maybe this was how they worked.
"Cade?" He called out cautiously. Though it came out more of a croak. He coughed, his throat drier than the desert.
"Oh thank goodness!" A soft scratching sound came from above Kai, where he now could pinpoint Cade's voice coming from.
Kai dragged his head upward. Though still dark outside his window, he could make out a shadowed figure against the window bars. 'You have got to be kidding me.'
"What are you doing here!" Kai hissed.
"Oh you know, I love visiting the palace dungeon at night- What do you think I'm doing here?!"
Kai clenched his teeth. How did he manage to have the snarkiest brother in the world? But he couldn't help admit hearing his brother's voice helped calm him- until he realized said brother was now illegally inside the palace talking to a prisoner. Oh he was going to throttle Cade if - when - he got out of there.
"Cade!"
"I was looking for you." The 'duh' tone heavy in Cade's voice. "What did you expect when you weren't home?"
Comforting and concerning to know Cade had come looking for him. "How'd you find me?"
"The guards talk a lot." Some of the bravado in Cade's voice disappeared and Kai heard the tremor in his words.
"What have they been saying?"
Cade scoffed, his momentary vulnerability buried. "The guards were excited. They finally caught 'the rat' that's caused so much trouble. Especially since the princess tried to come to his rescue. Half the palace knows by now, the rest probably within the hour. That part the guards didn't like!"
"Okay but why are you here? You need to get away before someone finds you!"
"Puh-lease, you know me. I'm easy for them to overlook."
Kai suppressed the urge to groan. "Not if you're talking to a big shot prisoner."
"Think of yourself so highly do you?"
"Oh for the..." Kai caught himself and took a deep breath- only to grimace again. 'Gotta stop doing that.' "What happened this afternoon? Where were you? Are you and Nya ok?" Having been so caught up in the events of the last couple hours he hadn't had much time to think of his sister. Now the worry returned with a vengeance.
"Calm down we're both fine. There was a lot of guard activity today-"
"You don't say," Kai deadpanned.
"-so we had to take it slow. Then by the time we got close to home they were swarming the place." Cade's voice dropped as he continued, "We couldn't get close to warn you. We were too late. I-I wanted to come after you but Nya said we had to play it smart."
Kai released the breath he didn't know he'd been holding. "Good. I'm glad you stayed away. Pyth knows there's people who hang with me and I don't want him getting his hands on either of you. Where's Nya now?"
"At Jay's. After we saw what happened we went back there to try and figure out a plan. But then they just kept talking so I came to find you."
"That was stupid."
"Hey!" Cade whisper-shouted indignantly.
Kai shook his head. "Brave, but stupid. And being brave doesn't mean you go looking for trouble. You need to get out of here now. The guards will probably be around soon and I can't have you getting caught too."
As if on cue, the sound of marching feet came down the hall.
"You know where I am, now go!"
Cade didn't have time to respond before a guard entered Kai's line of vision. Kai could only hope Cade would obey orders for once. Though if the past was anything to go by, the likelihood of that wasn't very high.
With a creak part of the barred gate swung out, and the armored guard walked in. The guard- 'Captain' Kai corrected himself on seeing the man's armor insignia- wasn't one he was familiar with. He'd have remembered seeing someone with that white of hair, brighter than even Cade's natural color, around here. The man stopped a pace away from Kai and studied him silently. Kai prickled under the man's gaze, unsure what the man was contemplating. There was also the uneasy question of what was going to happen now that Kai had regained consciousness.
The man's hand went to his belt and Kai flinched. However, instead of his sword the man withdrew a water skin. Kai's dry throat silently cried out. Talk about rude, coming here to add insult to injury-
"Here." The man held the water skin out toward Kai.
Kai didn't move. His eyes flicked quickly between the man and his outstretched hand. The captain waited until slowly, awkwardly with his hands restrained, Kai reached for the container. It slid into his grasp without resistance. Narrowing his eyes Kai popped open the cap and sniffed the contents.
"As the name 'water skin' indicates it merely contains water." The captain's voice was matter-of-fact. "Not only is poison against the code of Ouroboran guards, it is a decidedly underhanded, barbaric tactic."
Kai wasn't sure what to say to that, and his throat desperately ached, so he took a cautious sip. A little musty, but true enough it was water. In three gulps the bag hung empty in his hand, but the ache in his throat and head had lessened some.
"Thanks." Kai muttered and handed the water skin back. "So," a lump rose in Kai's throat but he forced the words out, "what are you gonna do to me?"
The captain's face twitched in a way that might have been a frown. "You are convicted of several felonies within the Ouroboran borders. What makes things change the course of our due process is the fact the princess herself is advocating on your behalf." Kai felt his brain freeze. Sure Skylor had stepped in for him when the guards surrounded them, but she was still making an effort to help him even now? "As such the King's own advisor has devised a way for you to make restitution."
Something about the words sent shivers down his spine. Maybe it was the gleam of disgust in the captain's eyes that didn't seem to be directed toward Kai. Though how Kai knew that, he had no idea...
"What did he have in mind?"
"The Royal Advisor did not delineate the details to me. He said that he needed to know if you would accept an opportunity to clear your record, or stand before the magistrates for the crimes you've committed."
Well that was hardly fair. Potentially sign away his soul to do something (really vague and totally not comforting) or almost certainly be convicted and either locked up for eternity or possibly even executed. Not to mention the whispers that Clouse dabbled in the dark arts.
Taking a deep breath, and wincing from the action, he locked eyes with the captain. "What do I have to lose?"
A lot actually. But the less any of the guards knew of said lot, part of whom may or may not still be lurking way too close for comfort, the better.
"I hope, for your sake, not much." With those comforting words the captain left Kai's cell.
Kai rested his head against the wall. A sinking feeling in his stomach made him wonder if he'd just made the worst mistake of his life.
Notes:
I had up to chapter ten written when I started posting chapters here so updates will be a bit longer than weekly from now on
Chapter 11: Flashing Flames and Swirling Smoke
Chapter Text
"Sir?" Clouse looked up to see Zane at his doorway.
"You spoke to the prisoner?" It was less a question and more a statement.
"Yes, sir."
"And?" The word lashed out.
Zane's calm demeanor didn't change. "He said he'll speak with you about how to make amends."
A predatory smile came to Clouse's face. "Excellent. You are dismissed and may return to your quarters."
At that the captain's eyes narrowed briefly and Clouse felt the temperature around him fall. "With all do respect sir it's outside of regulation policy to leave the dungeons without a captain on duty."
"I believe my presence will be sufficient to quell anyone who tries to step out of line." Zane didn't particularly seem to agree, but he didn't argue with his superior.
Still with him known for being a rule stickler... Clouse bit back the irritation rising toward one of the actually competent members of the guard- particularly one Clouse needed to keep close. He turned and opened a bottle of wine. Pouring it into two glasses he added a quick pinch of sleeping power to Zane's before handing it to the man. Zane frowned at the offering.
"It's not permitted for a soldier on duty-"
"Ah, ah, ah, but I'm telling you to go off duty. If I remember correctly you're training the princess in the morning so you shouldn't be on night watch anyway. When I leave the dungeon I'll alert the watch that a new captain needs to come on duty."
That seemed to grudgingly appease Zane. He accepted the glass and left Clouse's room. Clouse growled to himself. He did not have time to deal with Zane and the urchin tonight. Hopefully that wine would keep Zane dead to the world until Clouse could siphon his powers again. Drat the strength of a primary Element.
Clouse mentally shook himself and took a deep breath. One objective at a time. He had a prisoner to visit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kai had no way to track the passage of time, other than the fact it was still dark, but it felt like it had been a while when more footsteps came near. Kai's heart began to thump in his chest. He shoved down a grimace and attempted to keep his face neutral. That proved to be rather difficult when nearly six feet of definitely-fitting-the-vib- of-a-dark-wizard entered the cell and towered over him.
Kai wished he could stand on his own two feet but didn't fancy face planting in front of the man. "Your guard said you had a job offer?"
Clouse didn't immediately reply and Kai tried hard not to fidget beneath the man's almost glare. "Hmph. You'll do."
"You sure know how to make someone feel special." Kai deadpanned.
Something snaked its way around Kai's abdomen and pulled tight, forcing the air out of Kai's lungs. Thrashing from side to side, an action that sent agony through his already aching torso, Kai fought for breath that wouldn't come. Darkness began to creep in the edges of his vision when the pressure suddenly vanished. He gasped and started coughing.
"In case I didn't make myself clear, there are others I can use. If you'd like to stay alive and return to your miserable existence I'd recommend you keep your droll comments to yourself."
Not that Kai knew what droll meant, but he got the gist. That didn't stop him from sending a real glare up at the advisor.
"Glad we're on the same page." Clouse struck his staff on the ground and a puff of purple smoke rose around the pair. An image of a cave opening formed in the cloud.
"The Cave of Mysteries. Years ago treasures from Ouroboros were stolen and disappeared. I've recently tracked them down to this cave."
"And why can't you get them yourself?" The question was out before Kai fully processed his words. Surprisingly Clouse didn't lash out.
"The cave was protected by enchantments that even I can't break. Of such there is a ward in place that hinders magic wielders from entering. You have no such barriers."
Kai felt vaguely insulted but didn't comment on it. "What about the inside?"
The advisor shrugged. "With no accurate visual of the inside I can't tell you anything that would be useful. Be prepared for traps."
Helpful. Not.
"And what's so important in there?"
"This." With a wave of Clouse's hand a new image appeared in the smoke. The projection of an old scroll with an ornate yellow lamp (or was that a teapot?) with green stones encrusted along the lid's base. Even in the picture the lamp looked old.
"There's no official name for this artifact. It is said that this illuminates the path for the one who wields it."
'Vague much?' Kai frowned, but didn't bother asking the questions that began clamoring in his mind.
"The king desires that this be returned so that Ouroboros will continue to prosper." At that a small snort escaped Kai's lips. Clouse scowled, "Succeed in bringing back the lamp and the Crown will grant you clemency for your crimes."
"I guess I don't have much of a choice, do I?" Kai asked. Clouse cocked an eyebrow. "Fine. Let's get this over with."
Clouse pointed a finger at Kai and the chains around his wrists and ankles fell to the ground. Kai let out a small hiss of pain. Though it'd only been a few hours his skin had been rubbed raw. Gingerly Kai massaged his wrists but it didn't take away the stinging or the ache. He stiffly made his way to his feet and stretched to get the blood flow going again. The motion pulled at his throbbing ribs, eliciting a hiss of pain.
Clouse watched with a board look on his face. "You finished?" Kai bit back the first thing that came to mind, giving a stiff nod instead.
"Good." Clouse lifted his hand toward the wall behind Kai. A waft of purple drifted over and engulfed the wall. Kai stood frozen as what had just been stone turned into a portal of energy. "After you."
This time Kai did scowl. That didn't stop him from taking a deep breath and stepping through the portal.
A crackling energy rolled over him. For the second time in almost as many minutes Kai couldn't breathe. Dark spots covered his vision.
When Kai came back to himself he found he was lying face down on something soft and lumpy. Every fiber of his body throbbed like a giant bruise. Groaning he struggled upright, feeling the ground beneath him pass through his fingers. 'Whaaaa-?' He forced his eyes open to see he'd been trying to grip sand. 'Where?' Shaking his head in an attempt to clear it, Kai sat up and looked around.
Shadowed forms of sand dunes gave way to a wall of rock that rose high into the sky, disappearing into the dark. Between the rocks and the dunes there was no way to tell which direction the city was. Kai's rudimentary knowledge of what lay beyond the city's walls didn't offer any suggestions on where he'd landed.
Chills ran down Kai's spine. While he had- arguably- already been, he was truly at Clouse's mercy now. Speaking of...
Clouse stood nearby, nose in the air. 'Okay okay.' Grumbling internally, Kai took several deep breaths and forced himself upright. On unsteady feet he walked toward Clouse. The advisor lifted his hand and a glowing purple sphere to shape. Once it was the size of a cantaloupe Clouse tossed it in the air. The eerie light illuminated a previously hidden cave opening. If not for Clouse saying it had importance Kai would never have thought such a nondescript hole in the rock would have anything beyond desert creatures harbored within.
"The Cave of Mysteries." Clouse had a grudging note of respect in his voice. "Stories say that many cursed items reside within these caverns." He turned and locked Kai in place with a glare. "Touch nothing but the lamp, otherwise I can guarantee you'll not make it out again. There are warnings of pressure triggers so step lightly ."
Comforting.
"I cannot grant you a light since my magic doesn't pass inside. You'll have to make your own way in there."
Walking into a dark hole without light. If Kai hadn't thought this was an elaborate ploy to get him killed before, he was definitely thinking it now.
Well, the sooner he started the sooner it would be over. Kai stepped toward the entrance. The mouth of the cave loomed over him, looking much like it wanted to swallow him whole. He paused for a second then, steeling his nerves, crossed the threshold.
Instantly a wave of warmth rolled over him causing him to stumble. He managed to catch himself but felt the prickling intensity of Clouse's stare on him. Refusing to look back Kai continued deeper mulling over what he'd just felt. The heat had been unexpected, but not unpleasant. There was some sort of magic involved with this cave, if Clouse was to be believed. Maybe the heat had just been the cave accepting him inside?
Kai shrugged and cautiously continued to put one foot in front of the other.
Only a few steps in and the sickly glow of Clouse's light could no longer be seen. The path beneath Kai's feet sloped downward but he desperately wished he could see what lay ahead. How was he supposed to find the stupid lamp if he couldn't even see his own feet?
Almost as if in answer to his thoughts several torches, fixed along the wall, lit up with red flames. Kai stumbled back a step, shocked, and blinked against the sudden onslaught. After a few seconds he could see that the rock path led further down for another city block's length before coming to another opening in the rock. Being able to see had an immediate effect on settling his nerves.
RAWRRRR!
There went that feeling.
'What in the name of the First Spinjitzu Master-!' Kai bolted down the corridor, adrenaline temporarily masking the pain gnawing at him. His heart hammered in his chest. While a small part of him realized it was very likely he was running toward the cry, he had no current cover. And he wasn't desperate enough yet to run back to Clouse without anything to clear his name.
The echoes of the cry bounced along the walls, sending the sound reverberating in Kai's mind. Something green flashed ahead of him and Kai skidded to a stop before the new doorway. Another roar, closer this time, shook the tunnel. Kai looked back at the cave's exit but the path but the path had been swallowed again in the darkness.
He couldn't go back.
Swallowing against the bile rising in his throat, Kai slowly crept forward. Torches lit as soon as Kai poked his head through the archway. Inside he could see a large cavern with a crevice in the middle. The path skirted the edge of the pit before disappearing behind another doorway in the rock wall.
As Kai began to move into the room a burst of green shot up from below.
A warped form of curiosity swept over him and edged closer. It took his eyes a few seconds to adjust to the dim interior but soon a hulking form appeared in the gloom.
'D-D-DRAGON!' Kai stopped breathing. Below him lay a brown scaly beast, easily the size of an elephant. It's head was thrown back and another burst of green light came- shooting from its mouth.
'No way-' Kai's thoughts were stuck in a loop. Dragons were real. He had to still be dreaming.
The dragon cried out again before letting its head crash to the floor. In the ringing aftermath Kai heard the sound of chains clinking. 'What-?' Sure enough a large iron clamp encased both the dragon's hindlegs.
Despite the terror that coursed through his veins, Kai was struck by the wrongness of the situation. Something, that Kai couldn't quite name, protested such a great beast held like a common dog. Then that begged the question- what in the realm was strong enough to capture a dragon? Kai wasn't sure he wanted to know the answer.
Kai cautiously began his way along the path but the dragon didn't seem to notice him. 'What is the point of a dragon that can't be a guard?' Kai continued to shoot furtive looks over his shoulder, but the dragon didn't make any more sounds. Fatigue and pain crashed back into him once it became apparent the dragon had no interest in him.
Forcing himself onward, and to leave thoughts of the dragon behind, Kai looked around this next room. Here he began to see the dangers Clouse was talking about.
Heaps of old relics, gold and jewels lay strewn about. Kai felt his heart sink. If he had to search through all that it would take forever. And if they were cursed... this might kill him before any more Ouroboran soldiers had a chance. 'Nope, nope, nope. Nya and Cade are counting on me.'
He wandered deeper into the cavern, everything dazzling in the torchlight making Kai's head hurt. Still he forced his eyes to skim the piles. As he searched the room a path appeared to be made within piles. Kai walked deeper into the cave, anticipation building within him. When he turned a corner he saw it.
At the top of a pedestal the lamp sat, gleaming brightly.
The surge of adrenaline at seeing it faded as quickly as it came. Kai frowned. Who had set this up and why? If the lamp was so important why wasn't anyone here? Sure there was a dragon but it wasn't an effective guard chained to the walls. This whole thing was seriously smelling like a trap.
He walked toward it anyway.
Nothing stirred as Kai made his way up the path to the lamp. Kai carefully studied the path in front of him, but none of his steps triggered any adverse reactions. Had Clouse said there were traps just to throw him off kilter?
And yet it felt like an invisible cord was drawing him to the lamp. In a blink,, that his sore body should not have been capable of, Kai found himself at the top of the pedestal staring directly at the lamp.
He lifted it carefully. The stillness held.
Kai began to pick his way back down the path. Something tight within his chest loosened. He really was going back not only that he was going back to Nya and Cade- assuming Clouse kept his word.
He'd almost made it out of the treasure cavern when a small pile of coins near the entry caught his attention. Ouroboran currency. He hesitated, Clouse's warning running through his mind. There'd be no way Clouse would know, and just a few of them would feed his siblings for nearly four months.
Kai bit his lip and made his decision. He scooped five into his palm. Something shifted in the air around him. Kai froze to the ground.
The floor split open beneath the pile of coins. Kai stumbled backward, a strangled cry escaping his lips. A dragon's roar came in response.
The entire cavern began to shake. Rocks fell from the ceiling and lava bubbled up from cracks in the floor. Kai scrambled back to the dragon's cave- in time to see a large boulder snap the chains holding the dragon.
The beast bellowed, chilling Kai's blood. Large golden eyes blazed upward and zeroed in on Kai's. The dragon spread its wings and shot a blast of green energy. Kai screamed. He ducked just as a blast shot over his head.
'It's going to kill me!'
"No!"
It took several seconds for Kai to realize he hadn't been the one to shout out.
A small figure darted out from the other cave entrance, arms waving frantically. Kai blinked, sure he was hallucinating because there was no way Cade could be running between him and a freaking DRAGON.
More than that the dragon had stopped. And was staring at Cade. The floor shook and the dragon snapped out of its stupor. Flapping its wings the dragon darted toward Cade. Both Cade and Kai screamed. The dragon grabbed Cade in its claws before launching itself at Kai. In seconds Kai found himself surrounded by sharp claws.
The floor gave way to a red pit of lava. Rocks fell but the dragon evaded them. Through blurry vision Kai saw the red lava dim but he couldn't see why. Then came a sensation of falling and solid ground. The pressure around his abdomen released and Kai fell to the ground. His vision darkened and for several seconds Kai fought off unconsciousness- again.
Small arms suddenly snaked around Kai's torso, grounding him, and a reddish-blond head buried itself in Kai's chest.
"Cade? What in the realm-?" A giant huff of air swept over the pair causing them to freeze.
Slowly Kai looked up, directly into a snout of a dragon. Kai shoved Cade behind him, waiting for teeth to shred into him or whatever that green energy was burn into him.
Instead something wet and rough rubbed against his cheek and then Cade's. Cade laughed, a somewhat hysterical sound. There came a great thump and Kai looked up to see the dragon sitting on its haunches.
"They're real. I knew dragons were real!" Cade wriggled out of Kai's arms
"Cade!" Kai hissed but it went ignored.
Cade stood and looked up at the dragon. "Hi there. Thank you for saving us, and not eating us." The dragon looked down at them, a strange intensity burning in its eyes. "I knew you were real!"
"Cade, it's a dragon."
"Duh. And the dragon's a he."
Kai didn't bother asking why Cade sounded so sure about that. Another tongue lick and Kai felt fairly sure that the dragon wasn't going to eat them. At least not at the moment.
With his fear mildly abated, Kai scanned the cavern. The pit was completely gone, a massive mess of stones in its place. Additionally the falling rocks had completely blocked both entrances. 'Great.' He and Cade were stuck in a cave with a dragon. And Nya had no idea about any of this.
Kai lowered himself back onto the ground and rubbed his pounding head. "What are you even doing here?" He realized he interrupted Cade talking to the dragon.
"Uh, I'm not completely sure." Cade sat next to Kai. "I didn't- well I didn't leave when you told me to."
"Really?"
"Well I was- I was- I wanted to make sure the soldiers didn't try anything." Cade pulled his knees tight to his chest. "And I heard what that one guard was saying to you so I waited. Then he came and I was leaning against the wall. Then the wall just... got squishy? I fell through but ended up in the desert?" Cade paused again. "I- I felt... pulled to the cave. He wasn't paying close attention and I darted down the hall- just in time to see a dragon try and attack you. And you say I get into trouble." Cade muttered the last sentence.
"To be fair this is waaaaaaay outside our usual for trouble." Kai held up his hand, which somehow was still holding the lamp after everything that had just happened. The coins were long gone.
"So that's what the creepy guy wanted?"
"Guess so. Matches the drawing he showed me."
"What's so special about it?"
Kai shrugged. "Other than wiping my slate, no clue. And not very worth it since it's gotten me and you stuck here." Kai rubbed a hand along the face of the lamp, debating on whether he should chuck it across the room and be done with it.
That was even before the lamp started shaking and spitting gray smoke. At that Kai did throw the lamp. The smoke exploded outward filling the cavern. Kai and Lloyd coughed heavily. Seconds later another blast of air came from right next to the boys. The dragon settled his wings back to his body and swung his head in the direction of the discarded lamp.
A figure rose out of the smoke and Kai shoved Cade behind him. "Who's there?"
Kai didn't know what he expected, but the small brown haired boy- who looked barely older than Cade- glaring up at him definitely wasn't it.
"Oh great." A squeaky voice snapped up at Kai. "Who are you and what do you want?"
Chapter 12: Cathartic Endeavors and Encounters
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Skylor paced the training mat, biting back a growl of equal parts frustration and worry. Zane was a half hour late for training. Clenching her fists Skylor rounded on a dummy and punched its sternum. Zane and late were never used in the same sentence. She knife-handed the throat. So something must have happened. A tornado kick landed squarely on the synthetic abdomen.
The dummy crashed to the ground. Skylor panted heavily, bracing her hands on her knees. She felt too much like the training dummy after the last twenty-four hours. Seeing Clouse's boasted elite force using their power to cut down people in their wake still brought nausea at the thought. She couldn't claim to ever have liked Clouse, but the way his underlings acted without reprement spoke volumes about his character. But did that mean her father sanctioned such actions?
Skylor grimaced. Her conversation with Chen the night before had been confusing at best and patronizing at worst.
"-Clouse is capable of commanding his own forces-"
"-I'm sure Pyth had his reasons.-"
"-More importantly you went out without a guard?-"
In hindsight (and even at the time if she was honest) Skylor knew her actions were rather unbecoming, and dangerous despite her skill, of a princess but she didn't regret them. Especially now that she had a chance to see how her people truly lived. There'd been a quiet fear, even before Kai pointed out the actions of the guards. And now if the Masters themselves weren't even safe...
Bolobo's possible disappearance was another thing Chen hadn't seemed overly concerned about, -"He's always been a bit nomadic, he probably got distracted by some foliage on his way home"- but when Skylor confronted him about Cole... she could count on one hand how many times her father had raised his voice with her. That number went up last night. When she'd insisted that the story of Prince Cole's departure didn't appear to match with what the people had- or rather hadn't- seen, Chen had snapped saying she was putting too much attention in foreign matters.
And Chen had been the one to ask if Skylor felt anything for Cole. Nevermind the fact she was Heir and being groomed to rule the kingdom. That tended to require investing in 'foreign matters'.
Chen quickly apologized after the outburst but Skylor had already drawn herself back. With a cold good-night she stalked out of Chen's apartments only to confront Clouse in a similarly disastrous fashion. And now Zane wasn't here when he'd promised to be.
Skylor dropped to the mat fighting frustrated tears. Her world had turned completely upside down all at once and she had no idea how to righten it.
At newly eighteen Skylor had no illusions that she had the life experience her father, or even Clouse, did, but couldn't he see something was wrong? Questions she'd never thought of before spun crazily in her mind. If she could talk to Kai it might help, but that was another thing Chen expressly forbade. Even for Queen Apparent the dungeons weren't a place for a young woman, again no matter how trained. With Smoke Skylor could easily be in and out before anyone knew of her presence, but in addition to being her father, Chen was her King.
There were some lines Skylor wasn't willing to cross.
Unfortunately another line was going to Zane's quarters to see if he was okay. To send a servant would only highlight Zane's apparent lack of duty. Skylor winced, her father would not have anything good to say about that right now no matter Zane's spotless record.
Skylor took a deep breath, trying to clear her mind. 'Life's not a spectator sport,' she'd read in one of her books, 'If watching is all you're gonna do, then you're gonna watch your life go by without you.' She had no plans to watch life go by without her- even if it meant starting small.
Like right now she could train by herself again. After last night's debacle Skylor had a lot of pent up aggression to work out. Despite the worry it caused, maybe it was just as well that Zane hadn't shown up.
Rallying herself, Skylor rose to her feet. With another deep breath she launched toward the training dummy. Her flurry of attacks would put every member of her father's guard to shame. Skylor threw everything into her strikes until a roundhouse kick took the head completely off the dummy.
"Oops."
With a small groan Skylor took in the cloth and wool carnage. It was probably time to switch tactics. She took a quick drink and called to Gravity. Manipulating the Element, Skylor flipped from one side of the room to the other. She cut her connection and fell, tucking into a roll and springing back up on her feet.
Anger clouded her thoughts and she brashly tapped into Earth. Power thrummed in her veins. Skylor became aware of every speck of dirt, stone, and sand within the room. She took a breath ready to rally the power-
"What did that dummy do to you?"
Skylor's concentration snapped. She whipped around, fist pulled back, only to stop short. Chamille leaned against the door jam with an unimpressed look on her face.
"Highness I know I can be annoying but that," she gestured to Skylor's fist, "might be taking it a bit far."
Skylor flushed and quickly dropped her hand. "Sorry, I didn't hear you come in." She rubbed her hands across her face, fatigue crashing into her.
"So I noticed, either that or you have some serious beef with me that you've been hiding for a while."
Skylor snorted and made her way back to the water pitcher. "Believe me that I'd let you know if there 'was beef' between us. It's not considered very ladylike, or princesslike, to punch another lady in the face." She all but collapsed on a bench lining the wall.
"Would make for good gossip round the servants table." Chamille said as she joined Skylor on the bench.
"And very quickly the whole kingdom no doubt."
"Ehhh most likely. Though the question still stands, what'd the dummy do to you?"
"Zane was unable to make it this morning- and on that note can you check through the grapevine to see if anyone has seen him? It's not like him to miss anything he's scheduled for and I'm concerned something might have happened."
"Consider it done. Though in my humble opinion he just confirmed the long disputed fact that he is indeed human. There's been some rumors to the contrary."
"Yes, because rumors are very reliable to go on."
"I just tell it like I hear it. So were you imagining Zane's face on the mannequin or...?"
Frowning Skylor looked at the mess littered around the room. "It served as a more 'healthy outlet' than punching anyone."
"That bad huh?"
Skylor sighed. "I know what I did last night was reckless and irresponsible, but the fact that what concerns Father the most is that I snuck out rather than everything I saw... My people have struggles I never imagined and never realized before I walked in their shoes."
"And this has nothing to do with the roguish thief now secured in the dungeon?" A knowing smirk rested on Chamille's face.
Rolling her eyes, Skylor shook her head. "I have no idea what you're insinuating but in a way it does have to do with him. His perspective of what Ouroboros is like. It's not necessarily obtainable to change everything, but there's got to be a way to help my people who are stuck in the mire."
"Poetic," Skylor scowled on principle at Chamille's lighthearted taunt, "but I can see where you're coming from. Changes like that though are going to take time and, as much as I hate to say it, might not happen until you have the power to make the changes."
"That's what I'm afraid of."
Chamille clapped her hands dramatically. "And on that dreary note I think I've got something to distract you for a bit, the mare Felise had her foal last night."
"Colt or filly?"
Chamille harrumphed. "You would ask that rather than 'boy or girl'. But, Your Loftiness, 'twas a wee filly thine good mare has born."
"You're insufferable."
"True."
Skylor laughed and shook her head. Trust Chamille to know how to get her out of a funk. "Well, does the filly have a name yet?"
"The stable hands have tossed some names around, but since she's the first foal this season they figured you'd want to make the final call."
"Let's go see her then."
"Dressed like that?" Chamille wrinkled her nose.
"Better than changing then having to change again because I smell like a stable."
"I suppose you have a point." Chamille stood and gestured to the door. "Then what are we waiting for?"
Shaking her head, but fighting a smile, Skylor followed. The walk served to cool her down both in body and mind. By the time they reached the stables Skylor's heart rate had returned to normal. Chamille led Skylor to a quiet corner where a chocolate mare sat nuzzling a light brown foal.
"Hi there little one." Skylor's heart melted at the sight.
Felise whinnied in greeting and Skylor softly entered the stall. The baby stood on knobby legs and made her way over to Skylor. At only a few hours old the filly already reached Skylor's waist.
"You're a very beautiful thing aren't you." Skylor gently began to stroke the horse's neck admiring her soft brown coat. Splotches of white covered the filly's nose and lower legs creating a stocking look.
"Any good names come to mind now that you've seen her?"
"For all of two minutes, give me time to think." Skylor continued to stroke the filly. After a few minutes she settled on one. "Nadia. New life is a reminder of hope... and what can be."
"Apropos."
Nadia whinneyed again and Skylor laughed softly. "I think she agrees."
Trumpets blared from somewhere outside. Skylor jumped, spooking Nadia. The filly shied away, retreating to her mother's safe presence. "Sorry girl. Didn't mean to scare you."
Skylor quickly rose and dusted off her trousers. "What in the Realm was that?"
Chamille frowned. "I don't know but we need to get you back inside ASAP. I have a feeling whatever it is you won't want to be covered in sweat and horse dust. Hurry."
Skylor took the lead and the two girls walked as fast as was considered proper to the castle. Inside servants clogged the halls but no one seemed to know what was actually going on. The excitement, coupled with Skylor's attire, made her invisible to the crowd. Ordinarily that would have been nice, but not when she needed to make it back to her quarters.
"Don't let go." She muttered to Chamille while grabbing her wrist.
Skylor called to Smoke. In a blink the two were transported away from the crowded hall. The intent had been to get them both to her room, but Skylor's strength broke quickly. She stumbled back to solidity in a room barely a third of the way there.
The world tilted dangerously before Chamille steadied Skylor. "Woah there. You must have worked yourself harder than you realized."
"Sorry.. I though... that would work." Skylor forced between breaths. "But I haven't practiced... bringing others with me for a long time..."
"It's okay Princess. You got us unclogged from the masses. You go ahead and head up, I'll follow on foot."
Skylor hesitated. She wasn't even sure she could use Smoke again without passing out. It was almost as if her strength had been sapped. However, Chamille was watching her intently and something in Skylor didn't want to share what she was feeling.
So she let out a slow breath and called to Smoke again. Though still a little sluggish, Smoke didn't fight her. In a blink she found herself in her quarters. She staggered against her bed frame, but this time the exhaustion felt familiar.
Shaking her head Skylor went as quickly as her shaking legs allowed her to the washroom. She ran a wet cloth along her body to get rid of some of her sweat before drying off. Turning to her closet she ran an eye over her options. Something big was happening but she didn't know if it was a good something or a bad something. So, better to be prepared even while being a Princess.
Skylor moved past her day gowns to a couple garments hanging in the back. Another allowance Chen had made when Skylor began her training. Wearing trousers might not be the norm for the noble women, but an extra length of -detachable- cloth offered the appearance of propriety... without the limitations that a fight in skirts would cause.
She pulled an orange pair and white blouse from the closet and quickly changed. A knock came at her door scarcely seconds after she'd finished.
"Yes?"
"Just me, Highness." Chamille called.
"Come in." Skylor turned to her vanity and began brushing out her hair. From her workout she had hair both stuck to her head and shot out in staticky frizzies. Skylor scowled.
"Here let me."
Chamilled quickly pulled Skylor's hair into a simple but elegant french braid. Skylor took a deep breath and stared at her reflection. Not too shabby for someone who was in the stables less than ten minutes ago.
"Were you able to hear any further news on your way up?"
"Just that it looked like some forign dignitaries might be coming this way."
"Trerians?"
"I don't know, didn't get specifics."
"If it is them, does that mean Prince Cole is coming back, or something happened in his home land and they were coming here for him?"
"We don't even know if it is the Trerians." Chamille cautioned. "It doesn't help to jump to conclusions."
"You're right, you're right. Let's head to the North Hall. Even if father doesn't call me to court we can at least see what's going on."
Skipping Smoke since at this point it would knock her out, Skylor walked purposefully out of her quarters, startling maids who hadn't heard her return to the room. 'They really should be used to it by now.'
Skylor barely gave them a passing glance as she swept from the room. Chamille followed close on her heels. This time in the halls the servants parted quickly for the pair. Skylor had a spike of petty thankfulness for her rank.
Another trumpet bellow sounded outside, closer this time. The sound cut through Skylor. There was an importance in it she couldn't quite identify.
The trek to the North Hall seemed to take an eternity. Fortunately the crowd thinned rapidly the closer they got. That stemmed from the fact it was near Chen's quarters and off limits to anyone who wasn't the royal family or authorized personnel. It also looked out over the main gate and toward the city.
Skylor pulled up short at the entryway when she saw Chen and Clouse already staring out the grand windows. The men's backs were turned to her but she could see the tension in their shoulders. They had no idea what this was either.
"Father." Skylor made her presence known.
Chen turned, his expression impassive. "Come to see what all the fuss was about?"
"Thought I'd save you the hassle of trying to find me when you did know what it was about."
Chen grunted. "As if anything ever stops you, my desert flower." That stung but Skylor could see the resigned fondness in her Father's eyes.
Skylor joined the men at the window while Chamille remained a respectful distance away. Crowds had gathered in the streets in response to the trumpets, obscuring the view of the trumpeter. And then, appearing from behind a building, giant red banners came into view.
Skylor gasped, hearing similar ones from Chen and Clouse. The banners were blazing with a golden emblem that hadn't been seen in Ouroboros for decades.
If they were to be believed, Fire had just returned to Ouroboros.
Notes:
Though my ladies joked about Zane, he is a regular human in this fic (well as regular as an amnesiac Master can be...) Technology isn't that sophisticated yet 😉
Chapter 13: Choices Made and Changes Wrought
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
"Ugh, just great. That's the first decent nap I'd gotten in... well I don't know how long- but you had to go and ruin it!"
Kai stood frozen, gaping. Nothing was computing anymore. Which, after walking through magic portals (because apparently that was a thing), seeing a giant dragon (which was still standing way to close even if it had taken a liking to Cade), nearly being killed in a cave in, almost watching his brother be killed in said cave in, then having another child appear out of nowhere... his weirdness meter had tapped out a while ago. Either that or he was too tired and sore to deal with this.
The scruffy brown-haired kid continued to glare up at Kai. "Well? I'm waiting."
Kai shot a glance at Cade, who looked as confused as Kai felt. "Waiting for...?"
"Of course it's some imbecile who wakes me." The kid muttered- loud enough for Kai to hear. Kai bit down a flash of irritation and waited. Sighing the kid's face went from anger to something akin to disgust. "I'm a djinn. You get three wishes. Whoop-de-do."
"I'm sorry, what?"
"Oh great he's deaf too."
Kai returned the kid's glare with one of his own. "Disbelief, not deaf."
"Three wishes? Just like that?" Both Kai and the kid looked at Cade, the first words he'd spoken since the djinn had made an appearance.
"You say it, I grant it. No wishing for more wishes, no wishing for love, no wishing for death."
The djinn put a particular twist on the last word that sent a shiver down Kai's spine. Were there others who'd tried to make a kid kill someone? Magic or not, no kid deserved that on their conscience.
"Why are you in a cave?"
"I dunno." The question seemed to take the kid aback. He blinked and looked around as if just realizing where they were. And that there was a dragon with them. "Atlas!" He ran to the dragon who lowered his snout. Kai glanced away, feeling like he was witnessing something oddly intimate. "You're still here." The whisper echoed back toward Kai and Cade. After several seconds the boy seemed to remember he wasn't alone. He cleared his throat but kept a hand on the dragon's nose. "Whoever found me last musta brought me here. Probably didn't want the rest of his crew getting any wishes."
Kai wasn't sure how to interpret that information. "How long ago was that?"
The boy shot Kai an unimpressed look. "I was in a lamp. In a cave. How should I know? But some dude named Razin was king at the time."
Starting with surprise, 'Ow bad idea with a possible concussion,' Kai narrowed his eyes. "That was over three hundred years ago."
The kid glanced at the cave ceiling and looked like he was concentrating on something only he could see. "That tracks, given how much sleep it feels like I had."
"What?" Kai shook his head. "Never mind. Whatever is going on, I did not sign up for another kid, no offense."
Curling his nose, the boy resumed glaring at Kai. "Watch who you call 'kid'. I'm three thousand years old."
And Kai had really thought this day couldn't get any more bizarre. "Uh huh, it doesn't really seem like you're acting like a three thousand year old."
"How would you know what a three thousand year old is supposed to act like? You ever met another one before?"
'He's like Cade on attitude coffee beans.' Cade with coffee was not a mistake he or Nya would ever make again. Rubbing his temples Kai tried to figure out what to do next.
"Look djinn I'm sorry-"
"Who are you calling 'djinn'? Rude much? That's like calling you human. I've got a name you know."
'Actually I didn't know. 101 facts about djinns aren't covered when you live on the streets.' Kai sighed but didn't voice his frustrations. "Sorry. I'm Kai and this is Cade. What's your name?"
"Nelson."
"Okay Nelson, nice to meet you." His words might not have been believed through his ground teeth. "How about we continue this conversation when we're above ground?"
Cade pressed himself into Kai's side. "How are we going to do that?"
Looking up at the wall of rock surrounding them, Kai grimaced. "We'll figure it out, but not by sitting here." He really just wanted to flop on the floor and sleep for twelve hours, but instead he approached the nearest rock face. Grooves cut in and out, making it look like it'd be possible to climb- for him at least. Cade still had a ways to go in his climbing abilities and Kai had no idea about Nelson. "Scratch that. You two stay here. I'm going to try and see if there's an opening still near the top. It's still a few hours until dawn so it's possible there's an opening we can't see."
"You could just wish us out." Nelson offered.
"Eh I'm not sold on this wish thing, but if it's true I don't see how that would help get us out of here."
Nelson shrugged. "I can't do anything unless someone wishes for it, but as soon as the 'magic word' is used I'm able to grant it."
"So..." Cade dragged out the word, "does that make you basically human unless someone makes a wish?"
Wrinkling his face in disgust, Nelson gave a reluctant nod. "Basically."
That seemed convenient to Kai- though he did come out of a teapot/lamp thing so there was some sort of magic involved. Regardless if they somehow did have a finite number of wishes he didn't want to use one on getting out of the cave unless they absolutely had to.
"Hey, you said his name was Atlas right?" Cade gestured to the dragon. Nelson nodded. "Do you think he'd like to help us?"
Atlas shook himself and flared his wings. He nudged Nelson gently, then walked over to Cade and huffed in Cade's hair.
Cade laughed. "I think that's a yes." Lowering a wing, Atlas nuzzled Cade toward it. "Kai! Can we, can we, can we!?"
Atlas turned to glare at Kai, who backed up a pace. "If Atlas wants it, who am I to say no?"
Shaking his head in what Kai could only describe as a haughty way, Atlas lowered a wing to the ground. Cade slowly reached out and laid a hand on it. Atlas twitched an ear but remained otherwise still. Shooting Kai a wide eyed grin Cade scrambled onto the dragon's back.
"Well don't just stand there!"
"Yeah, no. Totally normal. Climb on a dragon. I'm sure I didn't hit my head and am hallucinating." Muttering to himself Kai walked toward Atlas, only to stop when Nelson didn't follow. "Coming kid?"
Nelson tensed, a weird twisted expression appearing over his face. "I- you have to get the lamp. Where it goes I go."
Something unpleasant lodged in Kai's chest. Keeping his face as blank as he could, Kai picked up the lamp. Unlike the first time it felt cold and heavy in his hands. He made his way back to the group, pointedly not making eye contact with Nelson. For his part Nelson didn't say anything as he climbed on Atlas behind Kai.
Cade leaned forward and rubbed Atlas's neck. "Can you get us out of here bud?"
Atlas roared, the sound reverberating throughout the cavern. Kai winced but Cade laughed. With a mighty heave that left Kai's stomach far behind, Atlas lifted off into the air. Blood rushed through Kai's ears. His knuckles stood out a vibrant white against Atlas's chocolate scales.
Up and up they went. How had they not reached the top? Kai fought the urge to squeeze his eyes shut. A burst of green filled the cave, blinding its occupants. Rumbling shot through the cave and a sudden warmth hit Kai's skin. Cautiously he opened his eyes. Yellow sunlight bathed miles of sand dunes in a cheery glow. Kai let out a deep sigh of relief. They'd made it out. They were alive. And apparently had been off the map all night.
A small sound that might have been a whimper came from behind him. It broke off midway but Kai knew he didn't imagine it. He bit the inside of his cheek. Given their current seating arrangement he couldn't look at Nelson without the boy realizing it, and Kai didn't think Nelson would take kindly to the attention. Still that noise had flared what Nya jokingly called his 'big brother instinct.' Something was definitely up with the kid. The only question was what?
Atlas descended toward the sand and Kai mentally shook himself. He'd try to sort it out later. The ground rushed to meet them, but with hardly a bump Atlas touched down. Cade let out a whoop and slid down Atlas's wing. He plopped in the sand and cheered again.
"We made it!"
Kai surveyed the desert. No sign of Clouse. Hopefully that slimeball had hightailed it back to the castle at the first sounds of the cave in. But now what?
Honestly, sleep sounded so good at that moment. Kai carefully dismounted, stumbling when his feet hit the ground. He heard Nelson follow his lead but Kai continued to avoid looking in the djinn's direction. Instead he gave Atlas a pat on the nose.
"Thanks boy. We owe you one."
Atlas assaulted Kai with his tongue. Kai lurched backward with a small gasp of pain, swiping strands of drool off his shirt. "That'd better wash out."
"So now what?" Cade voiced Kai's earlier thoughts.
Taking a mental deep breath, Kai turned around. Cade lingered near Atlas's head while Nelson stood frozen near Atlas's wing, his eyes closed and basking in the sun's rays. Kai fought back a wince. In the light of the sun the djinn looked even younger and his skin had a sickly pale hue.
Angling himself to include Nelson in the conversation, Kai grimaced. "We've got to get back to Nya one way or another, but the question is how? I'm too well known now by the palace guards. And once we do meet up we have to decide what to do then. Do we lay low in town or... try to make it somewhere else?"
Cade's shoulders dropped. "Leave Ouroboros?" There might be a lot of bad memories associated with the city, but it was still the only home all of them had known.
"Either way we still have to sneak into the city to find Nya. We can figure it out from there."
"I wish she were already here with us." Cade muttered.
"Your wish is yours to keep."
Cade and Kai jumped. Nelson's voice had deepened an octave and reverberated with power. The air next to the group shivered, taking a humanoid shape. In the blink of an eye Nya stood in front of them. She stumbled forward, arms flying up in what might have been an attempt to protect herself. Rushing to her side, Kai caught her before she could face plant.
"Woah, hey there sis. I got you."
"What-! How-! I was just-!" Nya blinked owlishly at the scene around her before locking her gaze on Kai. "Kai! You're alive! And Cade, you are too! I was so worried-"
"I know. I'm sorry, but Cade and I are okay."
Nya frowned and reached a hand to Kai's cheek. "Your face doesn't say that." Oh yeah, Though Kai couldn't see himself he could feel bruises pulsing with his heartbeat. "Please tell me I didn't hit my head and am imagining all of this?"
"No, you're really here." With a strained smile Kai gently eased Nya to a sitting position. 'And I guess that's one way to test Nelson's word.' Apparently they had a djinn who granted wishes in their presence. And that wasn't the weirdest thing to happen today.
"What happened to you? Cade and I came back to find our home ransacked with you nowhere to be seen? Then Cade took off and I- I-" Nya broke off, her voice thick with emotion.
Kai winced. "I'm sorry I scared you. The guards found me- still trying to figure out how- and carted me off to the dungeon. Cade found me there but Clouse- yes that Clouse-" Kai added at Nya's incredulous look, "came to offer me a bargain. Find this," he held up the lamp, "in exchange for my freedom. He magicked me away and somehow Cade stowed away with us. Clouse had me go in some cave to look, which ended up, ah, closing prematurely. Atlas got us and Nelson out."
"Who's Atlas and Nelson?"
"Uh, just don't freak out okay?" Nya narrowed her eyes but nodded. Kai pointed behind her. Turning, Nya caught sight of the dragon and the djinn for the first time. She inhaled sharply and closed her eyes. After several long seconds she opened them again.
"Even if this was some sort of hallucination there's no way I could make this up. A dragon and another kid. Why not."
"Djinn apparently." Kai corrected before Nelson could start complaining about being called a kid again.
"Sure, why not." With another deep breath Nya pulled herself to her feet. "Nelson, Atlas, nice to meet you. I'm Nya." Nelson froze again, his mouth twitching before he finally gave a curt nod. Nya turned back to Kai. "I have a feeling there's parts you're not telling me, but that doesn't matter right now.
"Last night Cade and I went to Jay's after you disappeared. We were trying to figure out what to do when Cade decided to wander off." Nya's voice hardened and she shot a glare in the younger boy's direction. "We figured he'd try to find you but Jay and I split up to try and find Cade. After a couple hours I went back to Jay's house to try and regroup but- Kai- he- his house was ransacked too!"
"What!?" Cade and Kai asked simultaneously.
Nya shook her head and Kai saw her eyes taking on a glassy sheen. "One of his neighbors saw me and said the guards hauled him off about an hour before I got there! I ran to the Eastern district but I was- I am- so scared. You all gone..." Nya trailed off then balled her hands into fists. "I didn't know what to do. I was about to slip to the palace to find out what I could when I... appeared here. We've got to help Jay! There's no way he did anything that would make the king's men go after him. You know him! He would never-" Nya broke off. Covering her face with her hands, Nya's shoulders began to shake.
"I'm sorry. I'm sorry we scared you. We'll get him back though. I promise."
"How?"
How indeed? For a fleeting moment Kai wanted to go back on his word. To gather his siblings and run away somewhere where they wouldn't be hurt... but that would mean leaving another friend in dire straits. 'Sometimes the right path isn't the easiest one.'
Kai glanced at Nelson, who stared out across the sand dunes, appearing not to be paying attention to the conversation. Yet given he stood only a few feet away, Kai seriously doubted he missed their exchange. Given how Nelson had somehow brought Nya to them they theoretically could wish Jay to them, but if the king had Jay imprisoned somewhere his disappearance would only sound an alarm and a manhunt.
Plus something about the whole situation just felt off in a way Kai couldn't name. The only way to find out what was going on would be to return to the castle. That didn't have much appeal but Kai felt he was partially to blame for Jay's disappearance. Yet, becoming a prisoner again would only serve to put him back in danger of the noose and keep from being in a position to find information on what was really going on.
No. He needed a way to be invited into the castle, without anyone knowing who he was. And he needed some sort of sway to be able to get any answers. The only people of power he knew were...
Kai turned to Nelson. "Can you make me an Elemental Lord?" Although right now they didn't seem above being in danger, at least they still held sway in the court. "In a way that the palace staff wouldn't recognize me."
Nelson made a scoffing sound, but quickly stopped when he saw Kai's face. "Oh, you're serious. That's interesting." Before Kai could ask what was interesting, Nelson continued, "Of course I can but you have to word it right."
This could either be the bravest or stupidest thing Kai had ever done in his life. "Nelson, I wish to be an Elemental Lord."
"Your wish is yours to keep."
Something erupted in Kai's middle. The burning sensation spread to every cell in his body. Kai cried out, more from shock than actual pain. After several seconds the feeling lessened, though a thrumming energy hovered just beneath his skin. The exhaustion and aching pain that had dogged him all night were obliterated by the warm energy. Kai took a deep breath and looked up. Nya and Cade were watching him, concern and awe etched on their faces. Nelson, however, was watching Kai intently.
On instinct Kai mentally reached for the energy. A ball of crackling fire poofed into his hand. "Well," Kai said (definitely not squeaked), "Go big or go home."
"No way! Can I-!"
"No!" Kai and Nya shot down Cade's inevitable question.
"Fire is going to draw a lot of attention. The last thing we need is for you to be looked at too closely." Had Cade already forgotten their close encounter with the Hypnobrai only a few days ago?
Cade pouted but Kai had practice in ignoring his puppy dog eyes. He turned to Nya. "I guess we're heading back to Ouroboros."
"Guess so, though you still have some explaining to do."
"Yeah... I'll get back to that. First though..." Kai trailed off and looked at Nelson. The djinn shifted, keeping his head down. "I'm not about to leave a kid, three thousand years old or not, alone in the desert or back in a cave. For the time being I think it'd be best if you stuck with us."
"I figured." Why did the kid sound so resigned? And what happened to the spitfire Nelson had been down in the cave? "If you want me with you I- I have ear plugs." The other three shared a glance among themselves that Nelson must have felt, despite keeping his gaze locked on his feet. "As a djinn I have to grant any wishes I hear, as long as whoever is saying the wish hasn't had three granted already. My other m- the others who've found me wanted me to wear them so only the one who had the lamp could make a wish at any time."
Kai felt slightly nauseated even as he followed that twisted form of logic. "How do you know what's being said around you?"
"I'm not blind." Nelson bristled, some of his earlier fire showing. "I can see what's going on and I can read lips, which for whatever reason doesn't compel me to grant a wish, and I know some simple signs."
Knowing some sign language would only be of benefit if the others with Nelson knew it too, since Nelson could still speak, just not hear with earplugs in.
"On the way into town would you be willing to teach us the signs you do know so we can keep you in the loop of what's going on when there's people around?"
Nelson's head shot up. "What? You- ah, sure."
"Alright then. Let's get started, gang. We've got a long walk ahead of us."
"Well..." Nelson drew out the word. "Since you wished to be an Elemental Lord. There's an entourage that can come with that." In a blink the four were surrounded by horses and a barrage of banners bearing a rich red tongue of fire. "Though, I think if you rode Atlas it would make a better impression."
After a beat too long of silence Kai slowly nodded. "Right. Good idea." He walked up to Atlas's side. "You up for it, big guy?" A deep rumble filled the air. "Alright then. Let's get to it."
Notes:
So I really didn't want Kai to manipulate a child into giving him a freebee wish, and when you trade a carpet for a giant powerful dragon, there are other options to getting out of a cave-in ;)
Chapter 14: Simmering Anger and Shifting Power
Chapter Text
Clouse wanted to scream. Loud and long into the void. He’d been so close. So. Close. The final piece for his own special plan. But no, it had to all fall apart at the last second.
Biting back a curse, Clouse kicked the sand in front of him. A very petty and childish move but Clouse felt it was justifiable. The dunes stared at him, cold and unfeeling under the moonlight. How did this happen? And now what? The entire plan rested on that djinn. Without it the power of the combined Elements would overwhelm anyone.
Growling in anger, Clouse teleported himself back to the castle. Inside his room Clouse paced like a chained tiger. How to explain this to Chen? Or even worse Skylor? He’d insinuated Kai would have a ‘proper trial’ and there was no way Skylor would let him off easily for this. Chen didn’t exactly know about the attempt to recover the djinn, so could Clouse tell him he'd taken Kai down to the lower levels as a laborer? Chen didn’t come to the lower levels but he had a number of other men he could ask to confirm Clouse’s story if he wanted. And what to tell Skylor? Clouse spat out a few choice words.
“Humph. Sounds like you had a rough night.”
Clouse spun, purple flames in hand... only to meet a very unimpressed Ronin. Clouse cursed again- this time internally. He could have sworn he left Ronin in falcon form, how was he human again?
“What are you doing here?”
Ronin rolled his eye. “ Your magic dragged me here. Believe me, I’m not here because of your winning personality.”
Okay, apparently his subconscious had some explaining to do. Not that he could afford to show Ronin he’d been pulled here by accident.
“Your target failed in his objective. The cave collapsed on him after barely a half hour. I need you to start scoping the city for another candidate, one of stronger moral integrity.”
“Because you’d know anything about that.” Ronin muttered, ignoring the withering glare Clouse sent him. “Why not use that other kid?”
“I need him for a different project. No, you are to find someone else. Quickly. The time frame is narrowing and if it passes before I get that lamp that wench of yours will be the first to feel my wrath.” A dark look came over Ronin’s face, but this time he held his tongue. “Go.” In a flash of purple a falcon screeched, and took to the skies.
Clouse let out a long breath. With Ronin searching for another suitable candidate Clouse could focus on other matters. Like talking to the king. Groaning, Clouse weighed his options. Chen would only grow more angry if he waited until morning instead of being informed right away. Inform him of what though? That Clouse was going somewhat behind the king’s back and lost the prisoner his daughter had already approached the king about?
Clouse’s thoughts turned again to the lower levels. Due to the secret nature of the caverns, any prisoner, slave, or tradesman taken to them would never leave again. There might as well have been death warrants signed to them. Yet... death in the dungeon hold wasn’t completely abnormal. Sometimes his guards were... overzealous. Other times prisoners decided to end it rather than face trial or the noose. That... that could work. It wasn’t ideal, but it beat most of the alternatives.
Muttering under his breath Clouse traded his sandy robe for a fresh one and began the well worn trek to Chen’s quarters. He had no idea what time it was, but the palace staff were all aware of Clouse’s far from normal working hours. The two guards in front of Chen’s door stepped quickly out of his way, not even bothering to announce Clouse.
Clouse knocked once before walking in. He wasn't particularly surprised to find Chen still awake, looking peeved over something Clouse didn’t think he’d caused, in an armchair by his grand windows.
“Sire.”
“You come with news?”
Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, Clouse nodded and claimed a chair across from Chen. “There’s been a slight... hiccup in the urchin case.” Chen raised an unimpressed eyebrow. “It appears that the street rat chose to take his own life rather than face Ouroboran justice.”
“Such a shame.” Chen’s voice hardly sounded concerned. “Did you take care of it?”
“Of course.”
Chen narrowed his eyes at Clouse. “Then what brings you here well past midnight if it’s handled?”
“Given how... invested... the princess has been in that particular prisoner I thought it’d be prudent to discuss how best to discuss it with her.”
Chen scoffed. “She has a knack for finding lost causes. I’ll take care of it.”
One problem taken care of, Clouse moved to another update. “Also, I plan to move forward with the inventor joining with the other workers. This many days out should have him weak enough to avoid causing any problems.”
“He’ll be drained enough.” Chen laughed. “I can’t wait to see his contributions to the project.”
“It already seems to have impacted the machine. When he begins physically working on it, it might be the breakthrough the incompetent fools have been unable to make until this point. Tomorrow I’ll make sure the boy is sufficiently motivated. If his own bodily harm isn't enough, Ronin reported there’s a lady friend that might be of use.”
“Perfect. Even if it doesn’t come to that, it might be best to get her out of the picture anyway. I don’t want more questions being asked right before more of the Elementals... disappear.”
“Understood.”
“Good, good.” Chen muttered. “It’s rather apropos. Only one of the Four Creation Elements remains.”
“Seems the theory about the Elements showing themselves is proving true. There are still two secondary and a tertiary Element to be located, but if the Four are harnessed the others are nearly obsolete in necessity.”
“Unless those fools who get away put up a resistance if they get wind of the situation.”
“Three low ranking Elementals against one who wields the power of the gods? They’d be better off hiding in the sewers. Otherwise they’ll likely find themselves in the morgue.”
“Indeed. I’ll talk to Skylor tomorrow. Hopefully with that put to rest- so to speak- she’ll move to other crusades.”
Clouse seriously doubted it, but didn’t bother to speak those thoughts. Chen turned his attention out the windows. Taking it as his dismissal, Clouse rose from the chair. Nodding to the king, Clouse swept out of the room.
As soon as he crossed into the hall fatigue crashed into every cell of Clouse’s body. For once he just wanted to sleep a solid eight hours. These late nights dealing with Chen weren’t as easy to hide the grating irritation that burned within him. ‘Be prepared Chen, you won’t always be the one on top.’
Returning to his rooms, Clouse closed the door and made sure his wards were active. He sent out a curl of magic, mentally watching as it wafted through the palace. After almost a minute a tug came from within the magic. Clouse smiled coldly and whispered another spell. The candles in his room dimmed and a figure molded into the shadows.
“Have you done what I told you?”
“Everything’s ready. The others suspect nothing.” The voice in the shadows betrayed no emotion.
“Excellent. Continue as you are. I’ll have further instructions closer to the Eclipse. Every detail must be together for it to work.”
That elicited a scoff from the figure. “I know what’s at stake. Just be sure you have the details right.” Without waiting to be dismissed the person released the magic and melted away.
Clouse ground his teeth at the insolence. He’d deal with it later. As much as he was loath to admit it, he did need to make sure every minute detail fell perfectly into place. Too many factors could easily make everything he’d worked for crumble into ash.
He debated for a moment on whether it’d be worthwhile to visit the caves immediately. However, exhaustion won out. Signing Clouse changed into more comfortable attire, leaned his staff against the headboard, and all but flopped on his bed. As tired as he felt, sleep eluded him.
Left alone with his thoughts, a recurring theme of anger plagued him. Anger towards the king, at his own subordinates, at that urchin for failing. Gritting his teeth Clouse looked over at a table lining the wall. A nondescript pouch still sat on the surface. ‘By the shades.’ Clouse swore and leapt up from the bed. With everything that had happened over the last few hours he’d forgotten about a certain drugged Elemental of Ice.
Grabbing his staff, Clouse took out a bowl and filled it halfway with water. He touched the water and muttered a spell. Zane’s sleeping image manifested. ‘Good.’ Zane’s rank of captain allowed him his own room in the barracks which made nights like this all the easier. That and his rank made it easier to explain the custom vengestone (not that Zane knew it) vambraces that most other soldiers lacked.
Rather than walking through the hall and risk being seen, Clouse gathered his withering strength. In a puff of smoke he stood in Zane’s cramped quarters. He held still for a minute. No sounds came from the room beyond Zane’s gentle breathing. The cup Clouse had given Zane sat empty on a small table near the head of the bed.
Clouse relaxed. There would be little chance of Zane waking before noon with the amount of sleeping powder he’d added to Zane’s wine. Still, Clouse kept his movements silent as he held the jeweled head of his staff over Zane’s head. Cold, white light filled the room as it was sucked from Zane into the diamond.
Zane let out a choked cry, his body rising toward the staff. After a few seconds the light from Zane vanished as quickly as it came. Zane’s body slumped back on the bed. In the low light now coming from the diamond a pinched expression of pain could be seen on Zane’s face even in his forced sleep.
Clouse ignored it and leaned against the wall, fighting to catch his own breath. Exhaustion crashed into him twice as strong now. The strength needed to keep the staff in place sapped what reserves he’d had left.
Even as his arms shook, his hands tingled with energy literally thrumming within the staff. No other Element fought leaving its host the way a Primary Element did. It regenerated too quickly within its host. A problem of particular note with the Ice Elemental.
Clouse wanted Zane brought down to the lower level to be done with this cloak and dagger siphoning. However, Chen continued to veto it on the premise that Zane was one of his best guards. As long as Zane remained in the dark to the clandestine dealings within the castle, he’d remain a guard in service to the king. The moment he found out, however... Too bad Chen also forbade Clouse from ‘allowing’ Zane to find out.
One day. Soon. Zane was entirely too perceptive for his own good anyway. Clouse needed to wait and then he’d have unlimited access to three Primary Elements. Only a couple weeks ago it’d only been one.
Shaking his head, Clouse stood upright and forced his magic to move. His room spun into view seconds later... and didn’t stop spinning. Clouse closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened them the room only looked a little blurry.
Definitely bed time.
The next morning was well underway by the time Clouse emerged from his rooms. A strange energy seemed to have gripped the palace staff but no one could quite put a finger on it. Rather than stop by the dining room for breakfast, Clouse made his way back to Chen’s quarters. The guards there reported that Chen had already left for his offices adjacent to the Throne room.
There he found Chen reading from a stack of papers at his desk. “Official business?”
Chen grunted in agreement. Couse bit back a scoff. With what lay brewing hundreds of feet below the two of them, paperwork over random kingdom plights seemed laughable. Appearances had to be kept up though, and there probably would be paperwork even after becoming an all powerful dictator.
“I have yet to speak to Skylor about your news. If you don’t wish to be her sparring partner I recommend avoiding her for the time being. Though that shouldn’t be hard.” Chen muttered the last sentence.
Underlying tensions between the royals? Clouse could work with that. It might make his own plans easier in the long run.
“Duly noted.” Like Clouse wanted to be around the Princess any more than she wanted to be around him. “Have you given more thought on the missive you’d like to send to Trerian? Even if King Lewis wanted-” Pounding on the door interrupted Clouse’s words.
Both men shot irritated looks toward the door, but knew who ever dared interrupt like that wouldn’t do it for idle reasons. Chen nodded his head and Clouse sent a wave of magic to the door. It swung in on its hinges.
“Sire, sire, sire!” Darreth tripped over his feet, spilling into the room
“You had better have a good reason-!”
“Sire the market is swimming with news!” Darreth burst out. “There’s an entourage coming with the banner of the Flame!”
‘WHAT?’ If he had any less control over himself Clouse would have started. He and Chen exchanged a glance. This seemed way too good to be true. And not at all bizarre that, within weeks of each other, two lost Primary Elementals arrived at Ouroboros’ capital.
“I swear, sire! A runner came ahead to the market and trumpeters called as I ran here. I thought you’d want to know as soon as possible!”
“You were right on that.” Chen rose from his chair. “Fetch the royal vestments from my rooms and meet me at the North Hall.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Darreth scurried from the room.
Clouse’s knuckles showed white around his staff. “The Elements are awakening. Ouroboros is the fulcrum.”
For the first time a curl of fear rose within him. He and Chen were meddling with the powers that might rival those of a god’s. What if...? Clouse mentally shook his head and shoved away the uncertainty. He knew what he was doing and would see it through to the end.
Chapter 15: Motions and Masks in Play
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
“You just said you’d like to eat a sock.” Nelson managed to look extremely condescending for a (sort of) eleven year old. “Maybe we should just stick with the alphabet.”
Nya stifled a snort. She pushed her hair back out of her face, an intricate updo that matched the lavish clothes she and Cade now wore as they rode alongside Atlas on a stallion.
Though Atlas probably could have fit all four of them semi-comfortably, Nelson pointed out that if Kai actually was an Elemental Lord, he wouldn’t be squished amongst so many others. Even if Kai wanted to keep his siblings close, Nelson had a point. Didn’t mean he liked it.
His eyes moved from Cade and Nya to the not-exactly-sentient entourage Nelson conjured spread out behind them. Half a dozen men in armor with banners bearing Fire’s emblem rode behind them. Their numbers were only a few stronger than soldiers who’d accompanied the Trerian prince only a couple weeks ago, but their bearing was much more impressive. However, the Trerian soldiers had the benefit of being real. Kai had no idea what the illusions were supposed to do when - if - Kai made it beyond the palace gate.
“-would mean only I could communicate with you since these two-” Nya’s voice broke Kai out of his thoughts. He looked over in time to see his sister gesture to himself and Cade- “can’t spell worth a lick.”
“Hey!” Cade protested.
Kai didn’t try to argue. She wasn’t wrong. “Can you go through the alphabet again?” If nothing else they’d have something to fall back on.
Nelson huffed but obliged. They practiced in silence, occasionally broken by Nelson’s corrections. The heat made it too uncomfortable for much of a conversation anyway. Gradually even the effort to sign was baked out of them by the relentless sun.
Kai had no idea how Clouse managed to teleport them so far from Ouroboros. Without Atlas, and the horse Nelson conjured for Nya and Cade, there would have been no way they’d survived the miles of desert- at least not without using another wish. Something Kai found himself extremely hesitant to do, even as his ribs and head throbbed in rhythm with Atlas’ steps.
“You need a new name.”
Kai started as Nya’s words pierced him back to the present. “What?”
“You might look different thanks to Nelson’s glamor, but the guards, princess, advisor and king know the name Kai. It’s not common enough to be used at the palace.”
Kai frowned in thought. “Any suggestions?”
Cade leaned forward, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
“ No .” Kai cut him off before he could start. A pout covered Cade’s face that Kai reflexively ignored.
“Mishal.” Three sets of eyes turned to Nelson, who shrunk under the scrutiny. “It, uh, it means torch bringer.”
“Torch bringer, huh?” Kai rolled the name around in his head. Not the worst alias he’d used, and on the nose for Fire without sounding silly like Blaze or something. “Nya you should probably also use another name, especially if your connection to Jay is known. And no Cade-” Kai started as Cade’s mouth opened. “You should be below the radar enough that no one knows your name.” Never mind the fact he got that name only a couple years ago. Cade shot him a stink eye.
“Mira.” Nelson offered. He didn’t add the meaning, but unspoken weight came in his tone.
After a few seconds Nya gave a nod. “I like it.”
“Still don’t see why I can’t get a code name.” Cade grumbled.
Kai felt Nelson’s eyes boring into him, but the djin didn’t offer up an alternative name for Cade. If Cade weren’t in ear shot Kai would have thanked Nelson for not spurring Cade on.
Instead Kai turned his attention back to Atlas. The dragon had been surprisingly compliant with everything Nelson ( and Cade) had asked of him. Yet Kai admitted he had no knowledge on how to actually take care of him.
“Do you happen to know what Atlas eats?” Kai’s question was met with silence until Nelson seemed to realize the question had been meant for him.
“Anything really. Though he’s partial towards fish.”
That could be a problem in the desert. A problem though Kai couldn’t do anything about at the moment. So he went for something else that had been niggling his thoughts.
The dragon had been chained when Kai first saw him, and Nelson hadn’t appeared until the lamp was disturbed. A lamp that Nelson had loathingly instructed Kai to bring with them. Add in the comments the kid had dropped... the result wasn’t a picture that boded well. And if the dragon was chained, yet still alive, did that mean there was a master of the cave that Kai- or even Clouse- didn’t know about? Kai had too many questions and not enough answers. Maybe he could try to pick at them.
“How did you and Atlas meet?” That seemed a relatively safe place to start.
“It was a long time ago.” Nelson’s voice came out stilted.
Kai waited but Nelson didn’t elaborate.
“Do you have a favorite color?” Everyone shot Cade a glance. He shrugged. “Mine is green.”
A color rarely seen in the desert. Kai snorted internally but stayed silent.
“No.”
“What? Come on! You gotta like some color.”
“I just don’t.” A bitter note filled Nelson’s voice.
The conversation petered off again after that.
Time trickled away, each crest of the sand dune leading to nothing but more desert. Kai had just begun to toy with the idea of one of them wishing for a bottomless waterskin when a smudge appeared on the horizon. Slowly but steadily the smudge grew and took shape until half of Ouroboros lay sprawled before them.
Kai’s heart thundered in his chest. He glanced at his siblings' faces. Nya had taken on a pinched look, her thoughts most definitely with a missing inventor even if she wouldn’t voice it. Kai knew she and Jay cared for each other, but somehow he hadn’t really realized the depths of their affection. Maybe he hadn’t wanted to.
Despite his own worry for Jay, an unexpected ache hit Kai at the thought of his sister possibly striking out with Jay one day. ‘You know, if you all survive this.’ A little voice in his head added helpfully.
Kai told it to jump off a sand dune.
A quiet, but sharp, intake of air came from behind Kai. He turned in time to see Nelson’s eyes bugging out of his face before quickly smoothing it behind a mask of indifference. Who knew what the city looked like three hundred some years ago or even if the kid had seen much of it.
“Ouroboros can be a jewel when she wants to be.” Kai tried to keep his tone casual. From the way Nelson glanced at him but didn’t respond, he wasn’t sure he succeeded.
The cold feeling creeped back into Kai’s gut. Honestly, Nelson had no reason to trust him, and from the few tidbits the djin had let slip, he had some pretty good reasons for keeping his guard up. Still, three thousand years old or not, the kid definitely deserved to still have child-like wonder at whatever he wanted.
An image of Cade’s early days with Kai and Nya flashed in Kai’s mind. He compared that picture with the current Nelson. Both held fractured looks in their eyes, distrust toward a world that had been anything but friendly. However, Cade had started to grow past that. Maybe there could be hope for this kid too.
“We're gonna start attracting a lot of attention if we haven’t already.” Nya called.
Kai grimaced. For so long their survival depended on remaining invisible to the vast majority of Ouroboroans. Becoming the center of attention... that thought sent adrenaline shooting through Kai’s veins. But his siblings were worth it. Jay too. Probably.
The city gates loomed closer. People the size of ants moved in and out the city’s gates. Kai let Atlas lumber on for a couple more minutes before turning to face the others.
“Alright. Show time. Nelson, ah, you should probably...” Kai trailed off, not quite sure how to put into words ‘can you please deafen yourself so wishes don’t spontaneously appear because of people talking casually around us.’ Nelson’s mouth twitched and he gave a jerky nod. That didn’t stop the curl of guilt in Kai’s gut as he could hear the shakiness in Nelson’s breathing when he shoved the plugs into his ears.
‘It’s not forever. Just until this whole mess is sorted out.’ But what when it ended? Everything within Kai rebelled at the idea of stowing Nelson back in some cave for literal eons until someone stumbled onto him again. Kai took a deep breath. ‘Later. I can figure it out later.’
The silence surrounding the four grew thicker. Kai didn’t bother trying to break it. He also didn’t want to admit to himself to the butterflies taking flight in his stomach. People started to turn and freeze in place. There were a couple screams that cut off when the wind caught the red flags. Sunlight gleamed on the golden emblem of the Flame.
Hushed whispers followed Kai and the others but otherwise the streets were eerily silent and still. There’d been more noise when Prince Cole came through. Though, Kai supposed, Cole hadn’t been riding a dragon... or confirming he was a Primary Elemental. Knowing all too well what thoughts were crossing the crowds’ minds, Kai didn’t try to make any eye contact with them.
Instead he shifted his focus to the palace rising high in front of them. Towers loomed over the pointed tips of the gates, casting shadows in the late morning light. Kai’s heart rate picked up and he bit back a gulp. He wouldn’t make it far inside with that mentality.
On the streets Kai had learned how to blend in. He could do this. Warmth exploded in his middle, pushing toward his fingers and toes, pulsing in time with his heart rate. ‘It might not be easy to walk away from this one.’ That sent a new spiral of questions wondering if Fire would stick with Kai after... after whatever this was, ended.
Kai shook his head to clear his thoughts. With only one hundred yards left before the castle, he couldn’t get lost in his head. Atlas stopped a few yards away from the entrance.
Nelson’s breathing echoed harshly in Kai’s ears. The doors of the palace towered high above even Atlas’s head. A contingent of soldiers stood across the battlements, bows knocked but not drawn. Behind the soldiers a second balcony held King Chen, Clouse, and (no Kai’s heart did not catch when he saw her) Princess Skylor.
“Who are you and what is your business here?” King Chen’s voice carried from the battlements- likely with assistance from Clouse as it sounded like Chen stood directly in front of them.
Kai took a miniscule breath, then squared his shoulders. “I am Mishal. I have heard that Ouroboros is the birthplace of the Elemental wielders and wished to see for myself if this was true.”
“You bear an old insignia. Are you able to back it with actions?”
Heart hammering in his chest, Kai lifted his hand and let a flame dance along his palm. Wordless exclamations rose from the crowds. Chen sent a glance to Clouse who stared flatly at Kai. After several long seconds Clouse gave a curt nod of his head.
“Well then Mishal -” Kai didn’t like the emphasis put on the name but kept his features calm- “It seems we have much to discuss.” Chen had a cold, calculating look in his eye that Kai could see even from his perch far below. Kai didn't remember hearing Prince Cole receiving such a cold reception at the gate. Then again, Cole was a known dignitary compared to Kai’s anonymity.
“Your beast will behave itself?”
There was also the fact Kai currently sat on a monstrosity of legend.
Atlas growled, too low to carry where the royals stood, but Kai felt the vibration. Behind him Nelson tensed. Doing his best to ignore the pounding in his ears, Kai gently rested a hand on Atlas’s neck. The dragon quieted- after flicking an ear at Kai’s arm. Kai withdrew his stinging hand and Atlas remained silent.
“He won’t cause trouble.” Kai sincerely hoped that would be true. With Nelson (and some reason Cade) around Atlas at least didn’t appear like he’d go feral. For now.
Rumbling came from in front of them. Seconds later the palace gates swung open.
‘Here goes nothing.’
Notes:
*Peeks out from behind several chaotic months of life* This will get done, even if it kills me.
Chapter 16: Introductions and Interrogations
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
It took all the decorum Skylor possessed to keep from gaping like a child at the dragon rumbling through the castle gates. Of course she’d read about them, but to see a creature of legend was another thing entirely. Forcing her gaze away from the dragon she turned to study the figures riding it. There were two of them, one a mere child if her eyes didn’t deceive her, and the other a young man. Skylor frowned as she studied him. Something niggled in the back of her mind, like the edges of a dream she couldn’t quite reach. Maybe his hair reminded her of someone.
“Let’s go greet our guests, shall we?” Chen’s voice was full of meaning when he looked at Skylor.
Nodding, Skylor fell into step with her father. Clouse trailed a few steps behind the pair. Together they walked to the throne room. The crowd of servants still clogged the halls. Even the king’s presence didn’t dissuade them, though Chen’s mind seemed elsewhere as he didn’t reprimand them to return to their duties.
Squeezing amongst the throng, apprehension built within Skylor with every step. Earth had returned hardly a week ago, and now Fire also appeared from nowhere? Granted she still had to verify the newcomer had the Elemental power of Fire, as opposed to a magician or charlatan merely conjuring magical fire. Still, this couldn’t be a coincidence. Would Lightning and Ice also make their way to the palace soon? And if so, what in the Realms was inciting such a phenomenon?
They took their seats mere moments before the party entered the throne room. Servants continued to crowd the doorway, but a wave of purple magic shut the doors with a resounding thud. Four individuals, the two who’d been riding the dragon, another young boy- a redhead- and young woman made their way towards the thrones. They were all dressed splendidly, in bright colorful clothing that didn’t match any style Skylor had seen in Ouroboros. Stopping at the foot of the dais they stopped and bowed from the waist.
“I must say this is unexpected.” Chen’s voice remained steady, but conveyed disapproval.
“I’m sorry for the surprise, Your Highness,” the male who’d introduced himself as Mishal rose from the bow and stepped forward, “we have been on a journey for a long time.” Mishal paused.
Rather than jumping in to question him, Chen simply stared down at the young man. Skylor studiously avoided looking at her father. He hadn’t been nearly this cold when Cole appeared just as suddenly in their midst. Although. . . Cole was a known lesser prince of a neighboring kingdom- and hadn’t arrived riding a creature of legend. Skylor understood, and appreciated, a degree of caution, especially where magic was concerned. Yet, once again, she felt an undercurrent of. . . something from her father she couldn’t place. Best to let it play out for now, but she resolved to get to the bottom of everything.
Mishal shifted before giving another slight bow. “I am afraid I don’t really understand it myself. Only that there has been a tug inside me leading me here. To the birthplace of the Elemental Masters. My brothers and sister,” he gestured to the young woman and two boys next to him, “insisted on coming with me.”
That piqued Skylor’s interest. The children had to be important enough to have made the trip with Mishal in the first place, but she wouldn’t have pegged them as siblings. Only the young woman and Mishal had any similarities in features, and even then the comparison was minimal.
Then a thought struck her. It must have crossed Chen’s mind at the same time as Skylor saw him grip his arm rests and lean forward asking, “Do they, or anyone else in your group, have magic?”
Mishal made a small noise that might have been a scoff, before quickly schooling his features and shaking his head. “My siblings aren’t Elemental Masters.”
That wasn’t what Chen had asked. Skylor waited for a follow up question, but to her surprise Chen didn’t pursue that further. He only surveyed them with a calculating look.
“What do you plan now that you’ve arrived in Ouroboros?”
“I wi-want-” Skylor narrowed her eyes at the odd emphasis Mishal had put on the word- “to understand why I’ve been brought here myself, Your Highness.”
“Hm.”
Mishal shifted on his feet. “I know it’s sudden, sire. If you don’t want me and my following here we can leave.”
The raven haired woman sent a sharp look toward her brother. The young red head slid his hand into hers and the look vanished. As he did, the other boy looked back and forth between his siblings and the king like he didn’t understand what was happening. A prickle of unease ran through Skylor. There appeared to be some differing reasons on why they’d come to Ouroboros.
Chen remained silent for a minute. “Be it destiny or some other reason that drew you here, there is no denying the timing is fortuitous. It has been so long since Fire has graced Ouroboros’s sands. You can remain in the castle for the time being.”
Mishal bowed again. “Thank you, Your Highness. By your leave it will just be me and my siblings. My men will camp outside the city so they’re not a burden for your house.”
Skylor stifled a frown. Now that was curious. Even Cole’s guards, few as they’d been, had remained with their charge. Whether these four wanted to show Chen they meant no harm or were very confident in whatever abilities they had to have no need of guards.
“Well then, Princess Skylor will direct you to your chambers. We’ll discuss more later.”
Skylor stood and descended to the group. She forced herself to avoid hesitating when she held her hand out to Mishal, the memory of her first meeting with Prince Cole at the forefront of her mind.
Mishal took her hand. Skylor’s heart stopped- for all the wrong reasons. Nothing happened. Through Amber Skylor could feel power thrumming within Mishal, but it didn’t flow into her. Between that, and his deep brown eyes, Skylor's voice stuck in her throat.
“Are you okay, Your Highness?” Mishal’s voice didn’t carry beyond them, but it was enough to snap her out of it.
“I apologize, I’m not. . .” Skylor trailed off, unsure how to finish the sentence.
“Daughter?” Chen’s voice held a warning.
Skylor woodenly turned to her father. She gave a minute shrug. Confusion and anger flew over Chen’s face, but it quickly disappeared.
Ignoring the questions tumbling in her mind she turned back to the group, “If you’ll follow me.”
Skylor’s chest constricted painfully as she walked to the same rooms Prince Cole and his retinue had used. Now another (possible?) Primary Elemental Master was occupying the same space. Would he and his disappear as quickly as the Trerians? What’s more, what did his powers consist of? It felt like an Element, but never before had Amber refused to absorb a known Elemental’s power. Skylor didn’t like the growing pile of puzzle pieces in her life that weren’t making sense.
But first and foremost Skylor was a princess. She didn’t get the luxury of voicing her thoughts and concerns without repercussions. So she remained quiet as she led the group to their rooms. Behind her one of the boys spoke in excited undertones before the young woman hushed him. It only then occurred to Skylor she didn’t know all their names.
“As my father mentioned, I am Princess Skylor,” she nodded to Mishal, “from the battlements I heard you introduce yourself as Mishal, but I don’t recall hearing the rest of your names.”
Mishal’s sister sent him an exasperated look before nodding to the princess. “My name is Mira, Your Highness. These are our brothers Cade,” she pointed toward the redhead, “and Nelson.”
Instead of pointing at the brown haired boy Mira made a series of hand gestures that apparently meant something to Nelson because he nodded and sent Skylor an appraising, and somewhat apprehensive, look. Skylor sent her own questioning glance toward Mishal.
“Our brother had an illness a few years ago that took his hearing. He’s able to speak but signs are how he knows what we’re saying.”
Interesting. That didn’t discount the boy from having some form of magic, the Master of Sound was a prime example. However Skylor had no intention of pressing the question again so soon after Chen had asked. Instead she nodded to all of them, noticing some of the tension leave Nelson’s face when she included him in the gesture. “I am afraid we don’t have any Signers in the castle, but our steward likely knows of some in the city if you’d like to have an additional interpreter?”
Another look passed between Mishal and Mira before Mishal turned to Skylor, “We’ll talk and let you know. Thanks for the offer.”
They arrived at the large doors noting the guest wing. “Here is where you’ll be staying. Feel free to look around inside. If you need anything, pulling the cord here,” Skylor gestured at a rope hanging on the back wall, “will signal the staff to come to your aid.”
Cade gaped as he looked around the room and, though they did it much more subtly, Skylor saw Mishal and Mira’s wide gaze at the rooms’ grandeur. They hadn’t introduced themselves as royalty, but the theory that they were nobility had more holes growing. To warrant the number of people in their entourage, let alone a dragon, and their lavish travel attire, it felt incongruent that the siblings would be dazed by the simple opulence of a guest room. Maybe royalty in their region had a different mindset of what entailed riches?
“I must return to my duties but I am sure the King will look forward to further discussion once you’ve settled in.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.” Mira bobbed a stiff curtsey and herded the younger boys to the antechamber.
Mishal’s mouth opened only to quickly snap it shut. He bowed and echoed his sister’s thanks. “I should make sure Mira doesn’t need me.”
With a tight smile Skylor made her exit and closed the door. Voices rose in the rooms behind her, but the walls prevented anything from being distinguishable. Rather than leave the hallway, Skylor stood frozen beyond the guest rooms’ threshold. Thankfully the servants didn’t yet know the group had been moved, so no one was around while Skylor attempted to collect her thoughts.
Chen would most definitely expect her to report to him after finishing with their new guests. The unclear reply she gave him regarding Fire’s abilities would stoke his temper. Skylor didn’t look forward to that conversation given his odd behavior over the last few weeks. It didn’t help that she had no idea how to read their newest guests. With Cole she might have been wrong about his social awareness, but she couldn’t deny how earnestly he’d been seeking for answers.
Mishal and his siblings were walking contradictions. He claimed he also came searching for answers, but Mira (and perhaps the younger boys for that matter) definitely had a different reason for coming. Never mind they couldn’t all be blood related. Obviously blood wasn’t everything, Skylor’s relationship with Misako served as a prime example, but it only heightened the strangeness of everything.
What were they actually after? Mishal hadn’t sounded completely sincere in his declaration they’d been drawn here. Years of court politics had tuned Skylor’s ears to listen for what people said versus what they actually wanted. Skylor let out a frustrated huff. Too many puzzle pieces with too little of the picture. Though she couldn’t say how she knew, much of the oddness occurring within the palace was connected. Skylor just couldn’t see how it fit together.
Allowing herself a few more precious seconds, Skylor drew herself upward. Might as well face Chen, and likely Clouse, now. Rather than walk through the throngs of servants likely lurking in the nearby halls, Skylor used Smoke to transport herself to Chen’s rooms.
“Everyone out!” Chen barked the second Skylor solidified in the middle of the room.
Skylor noted Clouse didn’t bother to move from his place along the far wall. Chen rounded on Skylor as soon as the door closed behind the staff.
“Well?”
Skylor bristled at the sharp tone in Chen’s voice, but kept her features schooled. “I’ve never encountered anything like it. He has some form of power that my Amber registered, but it didn’t absorb it.”
“Does that mean he has a different source of the fire than the Element itself?” Chen turned the question to Clouse.
Clouse’s mouth disappeared into a thin line. “It wasn’t sorcery that the boy used at the gate. That much I could tell and the wards I’ve placed around the palace would have triggered. There are few other sources of power outside sorcery and Elemental, none that I’m aware dwell in Ouroboros. I would have to discuss it further with Mishal if he’d be so inclined.” Clouse’s voice took on a tone Skylor didn’t understand.
Chen must have though because he frowned in thought. “We can ask him when we see him next. Is it possible he has a ward against Amber?”
“I’ve never heard of such a thing,” Clouse answered while Skylor shook her head.
“None of the other Masters I’ve encountered have felt this way-” She broke off thinking back to the night of the ball.
“What is it, daughter?”
“I’m not sure, but it reminded me of how Prince Cole’s power felt the night of the ball after Amber absorbed Earth. It could still feel the volume of his power even if Amber didn’t take it again. That doesn’t answer if Mishal has some way to block Amber without hindering his own power- as Vengestone would- but I know I don’t feel non Elementals power with Amber. Although, in light of Clouse’s words, I might have to amend that saying Amber doesn’t sense sorcery- if indeed this is something else entirely.”
“There’s details we’re missing, that much is certain.” Drumming his fingers on the table Chen stared into middle space. After a few moments his gaze focused on Clouse. “I do not want them roaming the palace without an escort. Assign the best guards to watch them. Master of Fire or not, his timing is most peculiar.” A look passed between Chen and Clouse that Skylor couldn’t identify. She grit her teeth but refrained from questioning it.
“I have a few in mind.”
“Good. Last thing I need is an incident within the capitol that the people blame me for-” Chen suddenly let out a brittle laugh, “First rule of leadership, daughter; everything is your fault.”
Skylor blinked at the non sequitur and sent her own questioning look toward Clouse. The man looked like he had just bit into a lemon. Neither of them said anything until Chen seemed to remember their presence.
“Anything else of note?”
“The red-head is Cade and their sister is Mira. The youngest, Nelson, is deaf. His siblings use Sign when communicating with him.”
“Hm. Interesting.” Again, Chen refrained from elaborating. “Both of you stay alert. Anything suspicious let me know at once. Something more is at play, for good or for ill I can’t tell, but we will be ready.”
A dark glint came into Clouse’s eye. Skylor suppressed a shiver. What in the Realms had her life become?
Notes:
Later than I wanted it to be but finally another chapter :) I realized a had slightly backed myself into a corner with a legitimate reason Kai would be at the palace since I'm not going the lovers coming for Skylor's hand route, but thankfully Chen is paranoid enough at the timing of events not to question it XD
Chapter 17: Of Answers Demanded and Taken
Chapter Text
The door had barely closed behind Skylor when Chen whipped toward Clouse. “How is this possible?”
“Sire, though I am many things, I am not all knowing.” Clouse stated dryly. “As I mentioned previously, I need to research magic that can mimic that of the Elemental’s.”
“I need answers yesterday! If his brand of magic differs from the Elements and it’s attempted to be absorbed it could destroy the diamond and all I’ve worked for.”
Clouse habitually bit back his thoughts on that statement. He and Ronin had done most of the work at Chen’s behest.
“I will start on it now.” Clouse resigned himself to even more sleepless nights for the foreseeable future.
Clouse began his descent from the dais when a thought occurred to him. “Sire, your daughter still doesn’t know the fate of the thief. She might have forgotten given Mishal’s and his entourage’s appearance, but she will likely remember soon.”
Waving a hand, Chen brushed off the warning. “I’ll see to it.”
Content to let Chen deal with his infuriating offspring, Clouse headed back to his quarters. Away from prying eyes he transported himself to his underground study. For a moment he stood, running a critical eye over his bookshelves. The majority of his books and scrolls were devoted to magic or the Elements in one form or fashion. While Clouse had read most, if not all, his library’s contents, none of the titles immediately stood out as helpful for his new questions.
Muttering a searching spell under his breath, Clouse watched purple light hover over ten or so books and scrolls. More than Clouse would easily be able to read in one night. With a long suffering sigh he sent a curl of magic to summon Ronin. Gathering the illuminated manuscripts, Clouse waited impatiently for Ronin.
The man appeared in a flurry of feathers that quickly shifted to human features. Breathing heavily Ronin rose, but for once didn’t bite out a snarky comment.
Clouse gestured to the books he’d piled on his table. “Tonight we are researching magic and its manifestation.”
“I thought you bragged you were plenty strong with yours.” Ronin grumbled.
Clouse stomped down the urge to throw Ronin across the room with his magic. He couldn’t risk dazing him when too much was at stake with too little time to manage it. “Start reading. Alert me for anything that hints at another source of power beyond Elements or traditional sorcery.”
“Fine. Have the half blind guy do hours more of reading.” Ronin grimaced at the stack of books. “Nothing wrong with this image.”
“It’s called cruel irony, like my reliance on you. Get to it.” Clouse punctuated his words with a blast of magic that shoved Ronin toward the table.
Continuing to grumble under his breath, Ronin pulled a scroll from the pile and sat down with a thump. Clouse followed behind him, picking up the nearest book.
Hours ticked by. The stack of read literature grew larger, with no success finding anything helpful.
“There has to be something!” Clouse pounded the staff on the floor. Sharp white light flashed through the room, reminding Clouse he hadn’t transferred the siphoned energy out of the diamond since absorbing Ice.
Ronin jumped, his eye shooting wide open for the first time in an hour. Groaning, he shook his head. “I ain’t seeing nothing but different ways to practice your brand of magic. One of these had a buncha’ information on what rocks and jewels can do for sorcery, but you seem to know all about that already.”
Indeed that particular scroll had been the key to everything Clouse currently worked for. It had given the information on how magic or Elements could be contained and harnessed for something greater. In his travels to study magic he’d found his diamond staff with its siphoning abilities. While Chen had never let Clouse practice with the diamond on Skylor or the other nobles, Zane arriving several years ago gave the perfect outlet to determine the range of the diamond's capabilities. Especially once the young man’s memory and his father had been dealt with. From there Clouse learned how to offload the energy into other crystals, so as not to overwhelm the diamond. Something he needed to do now before adding new Elements to the mix.
Mentally shaking himself for his oversight, Clouse rose from his seat. “Keep reading. I’ll be back before sunup.”
Ronin’s grumbling faded behind him as he headed back into the deeper sections of the tunnels.
In the busyness of the last few days Clouse hadn’t had time to take Lightning’s Element. In retrospect he could have done it when Lightning was first brought in, but Clouse admitted he had been more excited about having the Element in his reach than thinking critically about the situation. He didn’t know how the diamond would respond to holding two Primary Elements’ power, as thus far he’d been careful not to absorb Earth and Ice in the same period. Better safe than sorry and ruin years worth of meticulous planning.
The energy store room was set in an alcove hidden behind a wall of rock a few tunnels away from the machine’s workroom. Close enough that Clouse could slip in unobtrusively, but not close enough that the prisoners, or guards, knew of it. Any insubordination among the prisoners- and guards for that matter- was paid for in blood, but that didn’t mean unforeseen incidents couldn’t occur. The Sound Elemental breaking loose, as short a span as it had been, served as a recent example.
Ensuring he was alone, Clouse removed the glamor and stepped inside the room. Rows of shelves lined the space. Glowing crystals, predominately a harsh white but with a smattering of other colors, filled the shelves. Barrels of dull translucent crystals encircled the floor. Choosing an inert crystal, Clouse held it up to the staff’s diamond face.
White light mixed with threads of light and dark green shot from the diamond into the crystal. Clouses' arms shook under the strain of rushing energy. The light cut out and a rush of fatigue fell over Clouse. He took a deep breath. Once the worst of it passed he gently placed the now glowing crystal on the self with the others. Allowing himself another moment to regain his composure, Clouse gazed over the dozens of pulsating crystals. Soon his machine would be complete and these crystals would be so much more than pretty baubles.
When Clouse no longer felt like he’d fall over in a stiff breeze, he made his way to the workroom. Hot, acrid air hit his face. From inside the doorway he was pleased to see the shell of the machine significantly further along than it had been on his last visit. Glancing further around the room, Clouse saw what he had come for.
The newest conscriptee, the so-called Master of Lightning.
Lightning, a boy really rather than a man Clouse noted idly, had his own work station set up a few feet away from the other workers. The boy moved sluggishly, cuts and bruises trailing along his face and arms.
Captain Pyth joined Clouse and took note of his gaze. “We had to muzzle him for a while after he woke up to prove our point. It didn’t take too long for us to come to an understanding.”
Lightning stilled in his work, his eyes flicking toward the two of them by the door. Another guard stepped forward, brandishing his dagger. Flinching, the boy quickly lowered his gaze to the desk.
“He’s been down here for a couple hours and already making headway on the inner mechanisms that the others couldn’t figure out.” Pyth nodded appreciatively. “If all continues smoothly everything should be ready within the week.”
“Good.” Clouse eyed Lightning again. “I need his Element. Take the vengestone off.”
Captain Pyth pulled a set of regular shackles off of the wall. He stalked over to Lightning who leaned backward.
“Hey! Wait! What are-?” A heavy thud cut off the boy’s words. His head flung violently to the side, the rest of his body’s momentum halted by the shackles holding him to the table. Blood trickled from his nose.
“No talking unless spoken to.” Captain Pyth snapped.
The boy didn’t try to respond, although the dazed look in his eyes probably had more to do with it than Captain Pyth’s words. He also didn’t appear to notice as the vengestone shackles were switched for iron ones.
In his periphery Clouse saw the men at the other table flinch in anticipation. They’d seen it happen enough times to know what to expect.
Clouse held the staff’s diamond over the boy’s head. Cries of pain filled the room as Lightning leapt from the boy’s chest in brilliant blue arcs, fizzling in the air before disappearing into the jewel. The force of it shook the staff, making Clouse’s hands tingle. A breathtaking display if Clouse were one to appreciate such. Instead when the light died he nodded to Captain Pyth.
Stepping back from the shaking boy half lying on the bench, Clouse turned to inspect the machine up close. Behind him he heard Captain Pyth switch the cuffs once more.
“Take him back to the cells.” Two guards moved to carry out the captain’s orders.
Ignoring the guards dragging Lightning out, Clouse ran a critical eye over the metal shell. The craftsmanship truly was fabulous. The hull was nearly as large as a small house, angular with a focused point coming down near ground level. A panel sat half open with space visible for the inner workings Lightning still needed to finish. Though he only had been working for a few hours, Clouse could see Lightning indeed had made strides where the older blacksmiths hadn’t.
With the eclipse fast approaching it did truly feel like things were coming together quite nicely. The boy did seem thoroughly motivated to work at the moment, but extra incentive always provided better results. Clouse’s thoughts trailed to Ronin and his wench. There had been mention of a girl Lightning fancied. Maybe after this he’d have Ronin find and tail the girl. General production numbers had been down lately anyway so more hands would be beneficial. Another peasant disappearing from the street would hardly be noticeable. And the threat of harm to her might be enough to encourage diligence through the post siphoning fatigue the Masters’ grumbled about.
Humming thoughtfully to himself, Clouse headed back to the crystal room. Once the human Master was out of the equation, Lightning transferred easily to a new host, much more readily than most of the other Elements. Clouse filed that information away for later.
With the diamond mostly dormant again Clouse gauged his internal clock. Still an hour or so before dawn, well before Chen would be demanding answers. Clouse only had two crystals containing Earth’s dark brown glow. While the power from Primary Elements far surpassed Secondary and below, it never hurt to have more on hand.
The stall-like rooms used for shutting the workers in during their scant rest time were on the far side of the general work cavern. However, between the cell block and the main work cave another tunnel had been dug. This one to house the. . . higher risk prisoners. Twenty vengestone floors and bars caged each cell. Two sets of shackles, vengestone and iron, were set into the floor. No torches lined these walls leaving the tunnel in inky blackness.
Only a couple of the cells were occupied, but, if everything went according to plan, every cell would be occupied before the month was out. Clouse muttered a spell and purple torches brilliantly lit the length of the hall. Hisses of pain drifted out of three of the cells.
“Wha-?” An aborted question came from the fourth cell.
Clouse ignored him, but noted he’d need Pyth to further discourage Sound from talking. At the end of the hall were cells intended to hold Primary Elementals. Clouse unlocked one of the occupied cells. The scent of unwashed body and bodily fluids hit like a physical slap, but Clouse ignored it with practiced ease.
Earth’s wielder kept his head down as the door opened, a curtain of unkempt hair blocking his face from view. Vengestone manacles bound his arms behind his back and were attached to a length of chain set into the wall. His ankles were similarly bound together, in the iron shackles, then secured to the floor.
Clouse stepped closer until he stood directly over the disheveled prince. He didn’t say anything, but from the light Clouse could see fine tremors wracking Cole’s body. Without preamble Clouse called to his magic. Vibrant purple engulfed Cole, concentrating on his wrists. The manacles fell to the ground with a dull thud. Cole drew in a sharp breath. The purple haze vanished but in the same moment Clouse held the staff above Cole’s head. Harsh white light mingled with glowing brown strands as Earth seeped out of its host. Clouse fought to keep his hands steady. Ice, and even Lightning, were more difficult to draw out than other Elements, but they didn’t fight the same way Earth did. Clouse looked forward to studying the nature of Earth in particular once time allowed for it.
When the light died down Cole slumped over, landing heavily on his shoulder. A soft cry escaped him on impact. Before he could pull himself upright Clouse’s magic reattached the vengestone manacles. Short, shallow breaths echoed loudly in the small space.
Turning to leave, a raspy voice halted Clouse before he locked the door. “You won’t have to worry about any repercussions.”
Clouse raised an eyebrow. The prince hadn’t spoken since awaking in the cell several days ago. Neither was that what he expected the first words to be of an imprisoned royal.
Cole stared past Clouse at something only he could see. “The king.” He clarified. “If I go missing he won’t care.”
“Shouldn’t this be the time you would say otherwise, to incite some fear from your captors to let you go?” Condescending but Clouse was suitably intrigued, especially if he didn’t have to stave off a war so soon after his own coup launched.
Cole laughed bitterly. “You’d be doing us both a favor. Though I suppose you don’t plan to kill me yet.” His eyes flickered to the diamond staff.
Clouse mentally shook himself. He wasn’t here for any sort of conversation, especially with prisoners. He left without another word. The torches winked out as he walked past, leaving the cave in stifling darkness.
For the third time that night Clouse added more Elemental power to the crystal stores. His internal clock pinged it as somewhere near dawn. Fatigue weighed heavily on his limbs and thoughts especially after fighting the Elements so many times in rapid succession.
But he couldn’t sleep yet. Making his way back to his library Clouse was irritated but unsurprised to see Ronin slumped against the table, snoring softly.
Clouse struck his staff against the floor. Ronin jerked upright, papers flying everywhere with the action. Clouse glared but it held no effect when Ronin merely groaned and rubbed his working eye.
“Still nothin’ but Elemental powers and the magic/sorcery thing you already do.”
Still stuck at square one. Clouse nodded absently. He doubted Chen would be pleased with such an answer. He himself hardly was, but Clouse did have more texts he could consult before officially calling it quits.
“You’re to keep your eye on Mishal and his siblings. There’s something about them that is off, and the timing is too coincidental.”
He didn’t give Ronin further warning before turning him back into a falcon. Ronin squawked indignantly. Clouse ignored him. Turning to his desk he wrote out a quick note.
“Give this to Morro. He’s to ‘guard’ them while you keep a more subtle eye on things.”
Huffing Ronin took the note in his beak. Clouse waved him away in a flash of purple. Resigning himself to a long day ahead, Clouse continued to pour through his texts. He dozed off at some point, but woke quickly when his head hit the desk top.
Hours later Clouse had finished going through every book the spell highlighted. Nothing more than what he already knew. Gritting his teeth he knew Chen would be chomping at the bit for answers. Answers Clouse didn't have. That left everything circling back to Elemental powers or sorcery. Unless something was wrong with Skylor’s Amber. . . Clouse mused on the thought. It was possible the Secondary Element had a maximum absorption capability or if it already absorbed one Primary Element it couldn’t do more. Theoretically he could test that out by having Skylor absorb Ice but it was too soon for the questions that would cause.
Rubbing his eyes, Clouse debated on retiring to his room for some rest. However, he knew Chen’s temper would rage if he realized Clouse surfaced and didn’t immediately report in. Well, if Chen wouldn’t deign to come to the lower levels, Clouse did have another matter he’d been neglecting lately.
Clouse left his books piled on the desk and turned to a hidden catch within the bookcase. It swung outward soundlessly. Following a short path, the tunnel opened into another large cavern. Bones crunched under Clouse’s feet. A deep rumble came from deeper in the cave. Clouse conjured up a flame in time to see a two-ton purple snake beelining his way.
“There you are my dear.” The snake halted in front of Clouse, lowering her head to nuzzle his chest. He gently rubbed under her chin. “I’m sorry, Pandora, I’ve been so busy lately. I will have a special treat for you soon though. It’s not often you will get to feast on royalty.” Pandora hissed in response.
All too soon Clouse knew he needed to leave. “Soon I will have more time to spend with you.” He promised.
Pandora nipped playfully at him before zipping back to her own tunnels. With a sigh Clouse returned to his study. Cryptor stood waiting for him.
“What now?”
Cryptor gave a partial bow. “Apologies sir, but the king has rung several times for you. It appears he does not want to wait any longer for your return topside.
Resisting the urge to knock his head against the wall, Clouse merely nodded. He’d been pushing his master’s patience as it was. Purple enveloped him and Clouse stood in his chambers.
The light outside showed it was later evening, likely dinner had already finished if Clouse’s grumbling stomach had any say in the time. Just as well. Hopefully Chen had retired from the meal to his own rooms. Less audience to bear witness to the king’s surely foul mood.
Clouse groaned. He definitely needed sleep if this was where his mind was going. Schooling his features Clouse headed for the king’s rooms. However when he arrived only a cursory guard stood outside the door rather than the usual contingent. Which meant Chen was still with his daughter or had retired to his office off the throne room. Hoping it was the latter, Clouse made his way to the office.
The king’s bodyguards stood at attention at the throne room entrance. Small relief that Clouse wouldn’t have to see the princess just yet. The king had likely told her about Kai’s “demise” in the dungeon and that was yet another conversation he did not look forward to.
Inside his office Chen sat mulling over paperwork. He looked up, irritation on his face turning to calculation when he realized who’d entered. With a wave Chen dismissed the guards to stand outside the room. Clouse muttered a spell, soundproofing them against any possible eavesdroppers.
“I’ve searched every book in my collection on the origins of magic but have only found documentation on Elemental powers and the type of sorcery I possess. Unless the boy is something this world has never encountered he has to fall in one of those two categories.”
Chen frowned, leaning back in his chair. “So it would seem. Time is running out. Have Captain Pyth bring Mishal in for a more. . . thorough questioning. I need to know the source of his power. If it’s Elemental, take it and keep him with the others. If not, scramble his memory like you did Zane’s. That should avoid making it too messy regarding his siblings if his power isn’t Elemental. If it is,” Chen laughed without humor, “well, I doubt the younger ones would last long in the lower levels which will take care of the problem.”
For the first time in a long time Clouse wholeheartedly agreed with the king.
Chapter 18: Unknowns Within and Without
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
‘Well, this is different.’ Kai looked around the room. Couches and low tables were set in the middle of the room. Along the far wall stood four closed doors. A moderately sized window overlooked the eastern courtyard. While not showered in the splendor of the throne room, the rooms far outshone anywhere else Kai had ever stayed. Granted, when one lived in a decrepit building everything was an improvement.
“ What were you thinking saying we’d leave like that?” Nya hissed at Kai as soon as the door shut behind Sky- behind the princess.
“I was thinking that it would look way more suspicious if we tried to fight to stay when the king obviously is not sure what to think about us.” Kai shot back.
Shoulders slumping, Nya slowly nodded. “Fine, alright. You’ve got a point, but what are we supposed to do now? Even if we are ‘traveling dignitaries’ there’s no reason for the king to talk about his prisoners with us, and even less reason for us to ask about any.”
And that was the crux of the matter wasn’t it? They’d managed to get behind the castle walls, but really were they any better off than when they’d started? The meeting with King Chen, and his freaky advisor, had raised all sorts of red flags within Kai’s intuition. Likely they wouldn’t be given much unrestricted access to anything in the castle, at least not any time soon.
A small tug on his sleeve broke Kai out of his thoughts. He looked down to see Nelson stepping back - well out of arm’s reach- gesturing to his ears. Immediately Kai nodded, and pretended not to notice the naked relief that flashed across the boy’s face before he turned to remove the earplugs. Another rush of fury raced through Kai at whoever had treated Nelson like nothing more than a tool to be used.
Shaking away those thoughts, Kai returned to his previous point. “We have to be smart and not draw attention, well more attention, to ourselves.”
“But we need to find Jay.” Nya clenched her fists. “You know how the guards. . .” She trailed off looking at the younger boys. Both were edging away from the older two.
“We’ll figure it out.” Anything less couldn’t be an option. “Come on,” Kai reached a hand out toward Cade, “for now let's look around at our rooms.”
Cade perked up. Ignoring Kai’s hand he dashed toward the nearest door. “Bedroom. And take a look at the size of the bed!”
The others followed Cade and indeed a bed larger than the floor of their usual residence took up half the room. Two of the other doors led to similar bedrooms. The last door opened to a washroom with a bathtub. Instead of a well or buckets to draw water, metal tubes ran up the side of the bathtub. Nya poked at a lever experimentally and jumped in delight when warm water burst out the tube.
“That’s it, I call this first!” In a matter of seconds Nya all but shoved the boys out of the room and shut the door behind them.
Kai snorted but didn’t blame her. After the last couple days he’d had, let alone spending time in the dungeon (of the very castle he had come back to and that made his stomach twist), Kai looked forward to feeling clean. Settling himself on one of the couches, Kai kept an eye on the two younger boys as they continued to poke around the bedrooms. After an extended amount of time Nya emerged.
“My turn!” Kai nodded toward the boys. “You two are in line once I’m done.”
Cade let out a high pitched, “Do I have to?” but Nelson looked surprised. Sighing internally again at the messed up childhood that was Nelson’s existence, Kai ducked into the washroom.
When he returned to the main room he felt more refreshed than he had in a long time. “Cade, you’re up next.”
Whining, Cade dragged his feet but did as Kai instructed. Less than five minutes later he reappeared. Kai narrowed his eyes at Cade’s dripping form, but the younger boy crossed his arms. “You just said to wash up. You didn’t say how long for. And I scrubbed all the dirt off.”
Indeed Cade’s skin did look paler than its normal shade. Thankfully the henna hadn’t washed out so Cade’s hair still was a vibrant red. Kai frowned. That might be difficult to come by while in the palace. Hopefully they wouldn’t be there long enough to need to find more.
“Nelson, if you're not opposed it’s your turn.”
Hesitantly Nelson inched toward the washroom, closing the door silently behind him. He wasn’t in there much longer than Cade, but he also reemerged looking more at ease than when he’d gone in.
Kai glanced out the window to see the back side of the sunset.
“Alrighty it is getting late and it’s been a long day for all of us. Bed time.”
Cade grumbled, but the fact he didn’t out right argue only highlighted how tired he really was. Glancing at the rooms Kai stood a look at Nya, who in turn nodded slightly to Nelson and then one of the bedrooms.
“Cade, you're with me in the first room. Nya if you want to join us feel free, otherwise you can have one of the other rooms. Same goes to you Nelson.”
Nelson froze, his eyes bouncing between Kai, Nya, and the third room. “I- I can sleep in the lamp. It doesn’t- it doesn’t take much space so you can each have a room.”
Biting his tongue to avoid saying the first thing that came to mind with that statement, Kai shook his head. “We’re used to sleeping together for warmth. The beds are bigger than our entire home. There will be at least one room available because Cade is staying where I can keep an eye on him-” Kai ignored the indignantly squawked “Hey!” from Cade- “and if you want to be in the same room with us you can, otherwise feel free to take one of the other rooms. You don’t have to sleep in the lamp unless you actually want to.” Kai stressed the last sentence. Silence stretched for several seconds.
Nya took pity on Nelson and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. “How about you and I look at the other two rooms and you can decide after giving it more thought?”
Nodding mutely, Nelson let Nya lead him toward the other side of the room. Kai let out a long breath, and jumped when Cade’s head came to an abrupt rest in his abdomen. Absently Kai wrapped his arms around Cade, running his hand through Cade’s hair.
“Come on, bud. Bed time.” Kai led Cade to the first bedroom, leaving the door open behind them. Inside he set Cade on the bed. Cade let out a contented hum as he fell back against the mattress.
“I could get used to this!”
A zing of regret ran through Kai, stealing his breath away. Feelings of inadequacy at his ability to take care of his siblings threatened to drown him. Not knowing how to respond without his voice breaking, he instead climbed on the bed near Cade.
“Night Kai, love you.”
A different emotion shot through Kai and he closed his eyes against the moisture prickling in them. “Night Cade. Love you too.” Soft snores met his words.
Kai fondly shook his head. Footsteps approached the bedroom. Looking toward the door, Nya's silhouette drew closer. She climbed on to the far end of the bed.
“Nelson?”
“I’ve got him settled in the third room and told him again he could join us in here if he wanted. I’ll be surprised if he does though.”
Sighing, Kai privately agreed. “Thanks for that. There’s something just- I don’t know. He reminds me a lot of Cade when he first moved in with us.”
A quick intake of breath from Nya made Kai wonder if she hadn’t been seeing what he had. Granted he’d been interacting more with Nelson and a little longer than she had been.
“Now that you mention it I don’t know why I didn’t notice sooner. The earplugs and him offering to sleep in his lamp were odd.” Nya groaned. “We have no clue what we’re doing, both here and with another kid, and we’re in way over our heads.”
“The only way out is through.” Especially now.
“Well, hopefully we make it through. I can’t help but keep wondering what’s happening to Jay. Or if he’s even-”
“Hey, no!” Kai rolled on his side to face Nya. “We’ll find him. We didn’t come this far to fail.”
“And having an Element can definitely come in handy.”
“Yeah. . .” Kai wondered if Nya had heard about Prince Cole and Sir Bolobo disappearing. Somehow he didn’t think being Elementals had helped them at all. “We’ve lasted this long on our own just fine. We’ll do the same here.”
“Different game, different rules.”
“Maybe, but we adapt.”
Nya scoffed but didn’t refute his words. Eventually her soft, even breathing joined Cade’s. Despite Kai’s insistence they all needed rest, he stayed awake well into the night.
Loud squealing rocked Kai from his sleep. He attempted to jump upright, but his body sunk into a soft surface. Blearily he looked around. After several seconds it clicked where he was, that didn’t explain the noise. Kia then realized his siblings weren’t in the room anymore. Adrenaline surging, Kai rushed out to the sitting room. He stopped short at seeing Cade jump up and down excitedly.
Look! Looklooklooklook!” Cade pointed to a tray overflowing with fruits, pastries, eggs, and bacon.
Nya stood near the door, rubbing a hand over her eyes. “Breakfast was just dropped off.”
Kai’s stomach grumbled at the sight. Snagging a piece of bacon he looked around and realized he didn’t see Nelson.
Catching his scan Nya nodded toward the shut bedroom door. “Still asleep. I think.”
Kai frowned in thought. Hopefully the kid really was sleeping, he definitely could use it. As if in defiance to his thoughts the door creaked open. A shock of brown beheaded hair peeked out.
“Morning.” Kai nodded to Nelson. Nelson froze before ducking his head, running a hand through his hair. He muttered something Kai didn’t quite catch. “Feel free to grab anything you want,” Kai gestured to the tray, “There’s enough for a small army.”
Although, Kai realized he didn’t know if the kid really needed to eat, or drink for that matter. Whether or not Nelson actually needed it he did take an orange off the plate before retreating to a corner with it.
They ate heartily while Kai tried to come up with a game plan. “First thing,” he eyed both boys, “we have to sell the names. We’re Mira and Mishel, nothing else while we’re here, okay?” Nods all around. “For safety I don’t want you two to be anywhere without either myself or Mira if you can help it. Or at the very least don’t go anywhere by yourself. I don’t trust the guards after seeing how they handle people on the streets. “ Kai sighed. “We have to be friendly but we can’t ask too many pointed questions.”
“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem.” Kai and Nya shot Cade a flat look. “Just trying to lighten the mood.” He muttered. “Though. . . would any wishes help?”
A thick silence descended around the room. Nelson picked at his orange peel, not looking up at the others. Kai mentally kicked himself but knew he had to ask.
“Would the wishes be able to be used in that way, Nelson?”
“As long as it’s not wishing for more wishes, wishing to make someone fall in love, wishing to kill someone or bring someone back from the dead, you can wish for anything you can think of.” He replied tonelessly.
“So it would be limited to our imagination then.” Nya mused. “And between the three of us we have seven wishes left.” Nya looked at Kai, “I could use one to help us find Jay, or at least make sure he’s here before we are exposed.”
“And why didn’t you do that before we actually got in the castle?” Cade snorted.
Fighting back an exasperated sigh, Kai shook his head. “One step at a time. I admit I’m still not sure what I think about the whole wish business.”
Ignoring the incredulous look Nelson sent him,. Kai drifted to the door. “If we start by being out around others, maybe people will become more comfortable with us. Just don’t bring up why we’re actually here.”
Solemn nods all around. “Well then, let’s go explore a castle.”
Nelson dug out his ear plugs. Once he finished Kai opened the door. . . and promptly slammed a guard standing in the doorway. Kai stumbled backward, the guard barely flinching. “Ow.”
“My apologies, I did not mean to get in your way.” The guard bowed, his eyes remained lowered toward the floor.
Kai waved a hand, “I shouldn’t have swept out so quickly. We were actually heading out to see if we could get a larger tour of this fine castle.”
“Of course.” The guard led them from the room.
Cade bounded up to the front of their little procession. “What’s your name?”
The guard side-eyed Cade. “Morro.”
“Nice to meet you! I’m Cade! How long have you worked here? Do you ever get to see the king? Do you get to go all over the caste?-” Cade kept up a steady stream of questions that he never actually let Morro answer throughout their tour of the dining commons, main hallways, and outer courtyard.
Kai didn’t mind. For once Cade wasn’t directing endless questions to himself. Still, there was something just a little off about Morro that Kai couldn’t put his finger on.
“Ooo what’s down there?” Cade pointed toward a large building behind the palace and grabbed Morro’s arm to point when he immediately let go with an “OW!”
Kai closed the distance between himself and Cade in two steps. “What’s wrong?”
“I don’t know.” Cade shook out his hand. “My hand just hurt really bad all of a sudden.”
Gently taking Cade’s wrist, Kai turned it over to look at the underside. Nothing seemed amiss. “Does it still hurt?”
Cade paused for a moment, moved his wrist, then shook his head. “No. That was weird.”
That was one word for it. Kai shook his head, “Just be careful with it for a while okay?”
He stepped back, catching a calculating look on Morro’s face. The look disappeared when Morro saw Kai looking his way. Frowning, Kai trailed Morro’s armor. Maybe his vambraces had poked Cade? They did have dull gray stone or metal intertwined in the leather.
“The stables are next.” Morro’s bland tone snapped Kai out of his thoughts. He nodded toward the building Cade had initially asked about. “That’s where your dragon is staying.”
Oops. Kai realized he hadn’t given much thought to where Atlas went after they entered the castle. Good to know he was being taken care of.
The stables were a series of massive buildings, but, after ducking into the nearest one, barely massive enough to hold a dragon’s stature. A large vaulted ceiling peaked in the center of the building leaving a large open circle bracketed by stalls. The stalls closest to the center had their outer walls removed to better allow Atlas room to sprawl on the ground. Two troughs had been set along the far side of the circle for what Kai assumed was water and food for Atlas. No other animals were in the barn. Kai wondered if it had already been empty or if the animals had been relocated to make sure Atlas didn’t use them for snacks.
Upon noticing their approach Atlas stood and ambled over to the group. He nuzzled Nelson and then Cade.
“As you can see he’s being well cared for.” Morro cast a wary eye on the dragon, but stayed his ground near Atlas. A horn sounded from within the castle. Morro gestured with his head in that direction. “It’s time for the noonday meal. I’ll have the servants bring out food to the gardens. For supper the king intends for you all to dine with him and the princess, but for now we’ll continue our tour.””
Kai’s stomach flipped at the thought of being near Skylor again. How well would the glamor hold once they interacted together? ‘
Well,’ Kai thought as they approached the dining hall, ‘I’m about to find out.’
Notes:
I wanted plot, the characters wanted a break with mild sprinkles of plot. We see who won out. But Happy 2024! As always thanks for sticking with me and the sporadic updates 🙃
Chapter 19: Of Revelations and Resolve
Notes:
CW- Discussion of implied/referenced suicide- however, as implied in ch 17- it is a farce to try to trick another character
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
“I regret to inform you my dear, but the thief you met in the city decided to remove himself from the equation rather than face the Ouroboran courts.”
The world around Skylor tipped. This had not been what she expected to hear when Chen called her to his chambers first thing in the morning after the surprise guests the day before. Fighting to regain her breath, Skylor could only grasp the arms of her chair and pray the words were a mistake.
“He- he wouldn’t- that doesn’t. . .” She trailed off.
“Skylor?” Chen’s voice dropped low, gentle.
Skylor’s eyes snapped up to her father. “That doesn’t make sense! Kai wouldn’t-!”
“Daughter, you've known the. . . man for less than a day. It’s rather unlikely you’d be able to pick up on all the nuances of a person in such a short time.”
Normally true, but Skylor had seen Kai’s care and concern for his siblings. She couldn’t reconcile that with Chen’s pronouncement.
“I- I need to see his- his body.”
“Skylor-”
“Father,” Skylor’s voice hardened as she cut off Chen, “you weren’t there when Captain Pyth arrested him. You didn’t see how the guards treated him. They were overly hostile for an arrest of a simple thief. Far be it from me to accuse someone without proof, but I think the matter warrants further investigation of foul play.”
Chen opened his mouth, closed it with a sigh and then nodded. “Alright, I’ll speak to the guards about it- yes another one than Captain Pyth.” Chen waved his hand at Skylor’s beginning protest. “However his body has already been taken care of- not that you should be concerning yourself with such matters anyway.”
Skylor vehemently disagreed, this was one of her subjects and one who had been caught up in more than he should have because of her presence.
“Where’s he buried?”
“You know where the criminals are buried.”
Skylor grimaced. The communal graveyard wouldn’t have a marker. She started, Kai’s siblings. . . she doubted Chen would care to find Kai’s siblings. Even if they were found the guards might try to charge them as accomplices to Kai’s clandestine endeavors. Kai had never mentioned his siblings’ names so Skylor didn’t even know who to look for. His use of ‘siblings’ rather than brothers or sisters could mean that he had at least one of each, but even that didn’t tell Skylor much. Somehow though, they had to be told. However, Skylor didn’t think Chen would keep his eyes off her very long for her to attempt to reach out to the siblings. Still, they deserved to know what happened.
“He was a criminal, Skylor. In the end he chose the coward’s way out.”
Skylor bit her tongue to avoid snapping something she’d regret. Chen had made his position very clear and she knew her father well enough he wouldn’t budge. That didn’t temper the anger or guilt coursing through Skylor.
“I know you were taking him on as a pet project. It’s important, especially as you prepare to take the crown one day, to remember that some people are beyond saving. And there are those who will use whatever they can for their own devices. Such is what you need to watch for since many will want to use your position for their advantage.”
Skylor nodded distantly, mind still reeling. Maybe. Maybe it had been a savior complex, but even if that were the case did that make it any less her duty to help her subjects? Even if they took advantage of her kindness? Skylor would rather be known for being too kind than too cruel. Despite that Skylor couldn’t shake the feeling that hadn't been the case with Kai. He hadn’t known who she was when he stepped in to help her on the street. Granted it had been his fault she was accused of stealing, but he could have run to save his own skin. There was a measure of honor in Kai that even his circumstances hadn’t quenched. The way he’d spoken of his siblings also spoke to that.
‘No.’ Something else was deeply wrong, and a man caught in the crossfire had paid the price for it. Skylor couldn’t let Kai’s life be lost in vain.
The turmoil must have been more evident in her body language than she anticipated because Chen shook his head. “The world is dark and selfish and cruel. More often than not, if it finds even the slightest ray of sunshine, it destroys it. Learn and grow from it daughter. Better to see clearly now than disillusioned by a dagger at your throat exchanged for your hand of kindness.
“You may attend to yourself this morning, but afterward our guests will require our full attention. I plan to dine with them at dinner, and I expect you to join us.”
Skylor nodded stiffly. “If I may be excused?”
Chen swept his hand in a shooing motion. “I’ll see you at dinner.”
Calling to Smoke Skylor transported from the room. Once in the privacy of her room Skylor lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. It wasn’t like this was the first time she and Chen had disagreed on a topic, but it was the first time it was related to a loss of a life. Or at least the first time Skylor knew of. It didn’t sit well with her, and she had trained enough in both politics and self defense to know that she trusted her instincts. She debated on teleporting to the dungeon herself, but realistically it would do nothing more than antagonize her father and muck up any actual investigation. However. . . there was one guard Skylor trusted to give her accurate information.
Mind made up, Skylor rose and changed into her sparring gear. She opened the door. Pixal stood in the middle of the antechamber with a broom in hand.
“Your Highness?”
“I know it is short notice, but would you please send word to Captain Zane that if he is free I would appreciate his presence and instruction in the training room?”
“Of course, Your Highness.” Curtsying Pixal hurried from the room.
Skylor allowed a small smile at the exuberance at which Pixal went to the task. Taking another deep breath Skylor transported herself to the training room. Her staff sat at the ready against the wall. The warm wood slid comfortably into her hands. Gritting her teeth Skylor began to run through basic forms, moving faster and faster with each moment. Swinging outward her staff met another in midair.
“You seem to have extra emotion in your swing today, Highness.” Zane commented. Not pressuring, not condemning, but leaving the conversation open to however Skylor wanted to take it. A princess didn’t have the luxury of confidants, especially in her subjects, but, if Skylor planned on asking Zane what she was going to, he deserved an explanation.
“You could say that.”
The two exchanged blows for a minute before Skylor disengaged. Zane followed suit, standing at the ready. Skylor sighed deeply and headed to one of the benches. She could feel the weight of Zane’s eyes on her, though he remained on the mat. Taking a drink of water, Skylor tried to organize her thoughts.
“Captain, I’m sure by now you’ve heard about my. . . excursion into the city and the young man who crossed my path.” She looked expectantly at Zane, who nodded in agreement. “And were you aware of the circumstances claiming the young thief’s life?” The barest flicker of something Skylor couldn’t name flashed across Zane’s face before his features schooled, and he nodded again. “I know there is much that I am still learning about life, the crown, and the kingdom. Yet I cannot help but think there is more than what I have been told of his situation.”
“With all due respect Princess, the king wanted the matter finished, especially given the newest dignitaries to grace our residence.”
“If I’m going to be queen one day these are situations I will have to navigate. Beyond that, though I know I had only met him that day, I am hard pressed to believe Kai took his own life- especially when I saw the way the guards under Captain Pyth treated him when taking him into custody.” Skylor paused, seeing a tightness in Zane’s jaw mostly hiding a frown.
“When Father told me I informed him of my concerns. He said he would have someone look into it. I don’t know how thorough those in Captain Pyth’s jurisdiction would be, or if they would even try.” Skylor locked eyes with Zane. “I have worked with you enough to know you are honorable and treat those around you with respect that is unfortunately unique to those in your station. Would you be willing to look into the matter?”
Skylor fell silent, aware she was putting Zane into a position that could pit his loyalties against each other. Zane’s knuckles whitened around his bo staff. He didn’t respond for a long minute.
Finally he drew himself upright, “I’ll look into the matter. If something is amiss I will let you know.”
Skylor swallowed, the weight of Zane’s promise settling uncomfortably heavy on her shoulders. “You have my gratitude. However, I don’t want you to feel like you have to take unnecessary risks if the trail looks like it will place you in danger.”
“It is my duty and honor to serve.” Another frown shadowed Zane’s face. “I only pray the truth is not more than we bargained for.”
Skylor sat in the training room long after Zane left. Anger, frustration, and a measure of grief took turns vying for attention. What more could she do? The fact she would be queen one day didn’t seem to matter to Chen, regardless of his cryptic semi-advice of late. It was for that reason she wanted to be involved with the investigation- wanted to be involved in the outcomes of her people. Would Chen ever look at Skylor as anything other than his little girl?
On top of all those concerns there was the matter of Mishal and his entourage. He had power for sure but why did her Amber not absorb it the way it had Earth? Could she only absorb one Primary Element due to the sheer strength it displayed? Skylor’s mind turned back to Cole. He hadn’t seemed overly familiar with Elemental powers. Yet Amber had acknowledged it even when its wielder may not have. . .
Skylor sat bolt upright, remembering the reaction she’d experienced in the market shortly before meeting. . . before meeting Kai. It had never happened in a random passing but what if Skylor’s Amber recognized an Element when Skylor didn’t?
Heart pounding Skylor concentrated on the rush of heat that had slammed into her that day. With bated breath she whispered, “Fire.”
Instantly a small orange flame danced across her palm. Skylor barely bit back a shriek. She cut off her connection, the flame disappearing as quickly as it appeared. ‘This cannot be happening!’ Skylor leaned forward, bracing herself on the bench as her vision wavered. ‘What now?’
Mishal had some form of fire magic, but was it Elemental? Did that mean Mishal had been in the marketplace a few days ago? Or was he masquerading as the Master of Fire? If so, what happened to the true Fire Elemental and why hadn’t he or she made their presence known before now?
There were too many questions and not enough answers- or people Skylor was willing to trust to ask. When her vision cleared enough that Skylor didn’t think she’d pass out she called to Fire again. The flame popped and crackled, completely indifferent to the havoc its presence heralded.
Footsteps echoed outside the training door. “Princess?” Chamille’s voice sounded concerned.
Skylor quickly extinguished Fire again. She didn’t know what to do with this revelation, and right now she didn’t want anyone to know until she had something figured out.
“Yes?”
Chamille’s head poked into the room, a small frown puckering her face when she took in Skylor’s state. She entered, closing the door behind her.
“Are you alright?”
A small scoff escaped Skylor before she could stop it. Sighing, she shook her head. “No, but it’s nothing that can be helped. I assume you’ve come to tell me dinner is fast approaching?”
“As you’ve said.” Chamille offered her hand to Skylor. With a grimace Skylor took it. Chamille pulled her up, her bracelets tinkling with the motion. “Come on,” Chamille directed Skylor to the door, smirking over her shoulder, “you really need to clean up before meeting anyone.”
Despite the fatigue crashing into Skylor, she huffed a laugh. “You’re right, of course. I’ll change and head to the dining hall shortly.”
Chamille nodded and started walking toward the dining hall. Taking another deep breath, Skylor called to Smoke and transported herself to her room. Once safely away from prying eyes, Skylor conjured Fire again. Most of the other Elements Skylor had acquired didn’t have a physical manifestation she could see. The flame pulsed with life, deep reds and oranges swirling within its center.
Heavy resolve enveloped Skylor. For now she wouldn’t tell anyone what she’d discovered. Maybe with no one else knowing about this she’d be able to discern the truth of, at least some, of the puzzles surrounding her.
Skylor quickly washed and dressed in a suitable dining gown. Drawing herself upright, Skylor called again to Smoke. The large wooden doors of the dining room stood in front of her. Two guards on either side barely blinked at Skylor’s sudden appearance, too used to such occurrences by now. Skylor nodded to them. They stepped aside, opening the doors for her.
Skylor held her head high and walked purposefully into the room. If this web of intrigue was her life now, she wouldn’t face it cowering.
Notes:
As always thanks for reading despite my (sadly standard) infrequent posts. (Yay to adulting). Happy New Year!
Chapter 20: Puzzle Pieces and Paper Piles
Notes:
(See the end of the chapter for notes.)
Chapter Text
Clouse left Chen’s office musing over the day’s events. The infuriatingly strange puzzle surrounding the visitors needed to be explored. Clouse agreed with Chen that the direct approach would likely bring better results than subtle digging. Making a mental note to have a servant send for Morro, Clouse returned to his room using the back halls. Likely the visitors had also retired but Clouse needed to plan further before interacting with them again. He also didn’t know if Skylor was with them, and he had no desire to initiate contact since Chen confirmed he had told his daughter about Kai.
Catching a passing servant, Clouse passed on his order for Morro to meet him back at his room. The servant scurried away toward the barracks. Once in his room, Clouse sat at his desk noting observations from the last two days. Several minutes later a knock came from the door.
“Enter.”
Morro walked in, closing the door behind him. He crossed his arms, “You rang?”
Clouse finished writing down his sentence, hearing Morro’s feet shift in the silence. Finally Clouse set down his quill. He looked up at Morro, who stared back with a scowl on his face.
“What are your thoughts on our. . . visitors ?”
Crossing his arms, Morro leaned back against the door frame. “Starry eyed at the palace. Tight-knit, especially the red-head Cade and Mishal. Mira’s quiet but is miffed at something. I can’t get a good read on Nelson, but him being deaf might have something to do with it. The others keep him in the loop, though it looks like a lot of fingrspelling from what I could tell. The dragon seemed especially affectionate with the younger two boys. They don’t look much like they’re related, except maybe the older two.”
“And you would know all about that.”
Morro’s scowl deepened. Looking away, he picked at his vambrace. Suddenly he froze.
“What?”
Morro didn’t say anything for a long moment. Then he shook his head. “It might not be anything but at one point Cade grabbed my forearm and immediately yelled in pain. I haven’t oiled the leather in a while which can make my vambraces stiffer but it was. . . expressive.”
“Hmm.” Clouse leaned back in his chair. “Mishal was pretty cagy when asked about any magics for the rest of the group. That needs to be explored. For that matter how vengestone does, or doesn’t, affect Mishal may confirm his status as an Elemental.” Mentally Clouse berated himself for not thinking of that already.
“Whatever. That’s all I got from today.”
Refraining from rolling his eyes Clouse waved a hand at Morro, “Stay with them and keep me updated.” The guard wasted no time spinning on his heel and stomped out of the room.
Clouse tapped his fingers on his desk. More puzzle pieces. For once they seemed to offer some direction, but he would need finesse to pull off everything without causing widespread panic. The entire town had seen the dragon leading Mishal’s entourage (plus the whole matter of the entourage which could make things messy). It wouldn’t be so easy to explain away their disappearance compared to the Trerian prince- though it helped the prince was right that King Lewis wouldn’t be coming after his abhorred son. As far as Clouse knew Mishal had continued to be vague regarding his origins.
The shadows in the room deepened and Clouse’s thoughts grew sluggish. Grimacing Clouse acknowledged he’d engaged in far too many late nights and early mornings. It would do no good to have his plans fail simply because he couldn’t stay awake through them. Retiring to bed, he fell asleep in a matter of moments.
Hours later Clouse awoke feeling reasonably human. Mentally he shifted through his to-do list. It had been a few days since he worked from his palace office and there were upkeep needs to be addressed. After dressing Clouse made his way to the office. Inside his eyes caught on his desk. . . and the large stack of papers on it. Clouse groaned. Mundane castle duties still needed to be attended to even amidst his other plans. Too many people in the castle would be suspicious if Clouse let it pile up for much longer. Slacking off now would only bring undo scrutiny he couldn’t afford. Clouse settled in at his desk. For the next hour he busied himself with guards reports, allocation requests, and itemized receipts.
Despite his academic prowess Clouse felt himself going cross eyed much sooner than he’d anticipated. Rubbing his eyes, Clouse leaned back in his chair. He frowned at the stack on his desk that did not seem to have decreased much in size. Despite wanting to sweep the stack off his desk, Clouse sighed and grabbed the next sheet.
He kept at it until late afternoon. Since Chen never summoned him, Clouse figured the king was likely preoccupied with his guests. Rather than track down and become part of some engagement he didn’t care for, he continued plugging away at the stack. There would be time for interaction when Clouse interrogated Mishal. Which. . . Clouse looked at the notably diminished paperwork. It was time to have a conversation with Captain Pyth about setting plans in motion.
Stretching his neck and shoulders, Clouse set aside the remaining documents. He left his office heading for Pyth’s. The Captain of the Guard’s office sat in a back hall at the entrance to the stairwell leading to the dungeon.
The dungeon below the castle typically held political and high risk prisoners, or those newly arrested. Otherwise most detainees were shipped out to Kryptarium. . . or transferred to the caves never to be seen topside again. Often only a few cells were in use at a given time.
Clouse found Pyth in his office, looking over his own stack of papers. Truly paperwork was the bane of any leader’s existence. Pyth looked up at Clouse’s approach. He caught Clouse’s expression and set aside his document.
“I wasn’t expecting to see you today, sir.”
“There are some matters we need to discuss.” Clouse sent a waft of magic, closing the door behind him. Muttering a spell he ensured the room to be impervious to eavesdroppers. He turned his attention back to Pyth. The captain looked at him expectantly, accustomed to the ever growing need for secrecy.
“The arrival of Mishel and his companions is a little too coincidental for mine and the king’s taste. Everything about him appears to be a walking contradiction. The king has given his approval for a more. . . thorough. . . interrogation of him but we’ll have to be smart. For now we don’t want him or his companions getting suspicious before we strike. Morro is ‘attending’ to them and will alert me to anything out of the ordinary. Over the next couple days we need to continue to watch them carefully. The king does not want the companions queued in just yet that something is amiss so we’ll need to plan carefully to collect Mishal alone. If his answers are to the king’s liking I’ll wipe his memory of the experience. If not there will be four more conscriptees for the lower levels.”
Nodding thoughtfully, Pyth leaned back in his chair. “What of the dragon though? We don’t know enough about it to know how attached it is to the group, or if we can utilize it for our purposes.”
“I plan to look into that over the next couple days. Legend has it that dragons had connections with the Elements. That only makes its traveling with Mishal that much more notable.”
“Has the princess confirmed if the others have Elementals as well?”
Clouse stilled. Why hadn’t he thought of that himself? After Mishal’s cagy response when Chen asked him directly that should have been the next thought in Clouse’s mind but he’d been too distracted by the possible return of Fire to continue down that train of logic. That or the sleepless nights were wearing on him more than he realized.
“That is a matter I’ll have rectified today.” The princess might have already had some sort of contact with the other three in the last couple days. Clouse would confirm with Chen as soon as possible.
“So, that’s a no then.” For once Pyth ignored the murderous glare Clouse sent his way. “Do you want any of the vengestone shackles in the upper dungeon?”
“All the shackles have been completed?
“Yes without further incident.”
Clouse thought for a minute. “I want all the lower cells outfitted with a set. Any of the extras keep on hand up here. We’ll need them readily available when we go after the Masters.”
In hindsight, moving the princess’ celebration, or a similar event, to the eclipse would have made it much easier to corner all the Masters at once. However a coordinated attack would still work before they could be the wiser. Although, Clouse didn’t look forward to that planning meeting.
“It would be beneficial to have more soldiers outfitted with vengestone weapons for the attacks.”
Pyth grimaced. “I don’t know if our current reserves of vengestone will stretch that far. We’ve used more of it up in the last few months than we have since things started.”
Well that wasn’t ideal. Orobooros only had one reliable vengestone mine, but mining it was a secret left only to a select few.
“I’ll speak with the king about processing another shipment. Start production with what you can. At the very least outfit the rest of the captains and work your way down from there. Stick with daggers and shields. Additional items can be added once more shipments arrive.”
“That should work.”
“Once the vengestone is in place, inform Cryptor of the next steps with Mishal. Don’t bring anyone else in on it until just before we strike. The less who know the better.”
Pyth nodded. The topic shifted to some adjustments needed based on the reports Clouse finished earlier. Finally, Clouse released the spell on Pyth’s office. “I will be down to check on the progress tonight.”
“I can’t promise everything will be ready by tonight.”
“As I said, progress.”
Without waiting for Pyth to respond Clouse swept out of the office- nearly crashing into Zane outside the door. Biting back an undignified response, Clouse frowned at Zane.
“What are you doing here Captain?”
Zane didn’t rise to Clouse’s tone but kept an air of calm indifference. “I was coming to see Captain Pyth, there are some needs for the guard rotation schedule that I wanted to discuss with him.”
“I am afraid you’ll have to come back. Pyth has other matters I need him to attend to at this time.”
Zane hesitated before slowly nodding. “I will make do without him then.” With a small bow Zane continued on his way toward the main hall.
Frowning, Clouse watched him go. It seemed entirely too coincidental for Zane to be outside the door as Clouse and Pyth discussed the Elemental Masters, even if Zane didn’t remember being one. Not that Zane could have heard anything but something about the captain’s presence bothered Clouse.
Pyth joined Clouse at the doorway. “What are you thinking?”
Besides Chen, Pyth was the only other member of the castle who knew who, or rather what , Zane was. Well, the only other willing castle member.
“I’m not sure yet. The only thing predictable in life is unpredictability. Keep a close eye on him though. Time is running short.”
“Will do.” Pyth disappeared back into his office, shutting the door behind him.
A surge of magic shot through Clouse, signifying Pyth had used his passage to the caves embedded in the office. It saved a lot of walking time rather than using the manual entrance concealed just outside the city’s gates. Only Pyth and a few trusted lieutenants knew about this door but it served as a quick way when needed to go back and forth between the levels if Clouse wasn’t readily available.
Clouse turned to follow Zane’s path down the hall. His thoughts shifted between the orders he’d given Pyth and the nagging in his mind about Zane. Mentally Clouse set it aside. The king would likely want another meeting with Clouse that evening. Clouse let out a small grumble. Between the tasks Chen had for him, his usual tasks, the caves, and his own schemes he barely had time to think.
Rather than going to find Chen, Clouse returned to his room. He rang a servant to bring a tray to his room. As he waited Clouse continued mulling over the situation. Why did Zane’s appearance bother him so? Having kept a careful eye on the Master of Ice, Clouse knew intimately the man’s schedule. Zane should have gone off duty nearly an hour earlier. It wasn’t abnormal, especially for Zane, to speak with other members of the guard off shift but something niggled in his mind.
Knocking on Clouse’s door broke him from his thoughts. A maid dropped off the tray, curtsied, and scurried from the room. Clouse watched her turn and head back toward the kitchens.
With a start Clouse realized what had been bothering him; Zane had not come from the main hall within the castle. He had already been walking that way, away from the dungeons. Even if Zane had been required to take someone down there, Clouse would have certainly been notified of the arrests. Off shift Zane had little reason to be in the dungeon.
Clouse frowned. Why would Zane bother to go down to the dungeon? Also why lie about it (there was the slight possibility it might have something to do with why he wanted to talk to Pyth, but Clouse wouldn’t bet on that). It didn’t sit right and Clouse had learned long ago to trust his instincts. Except in the case of his own Mastery, Zane was entirely too observant for his own good. Offering any semblance of a position in his new order to Zane would be moot as the man would decidedly oppose such a coup.
Since Clouse could only speculate his concerns about Zane he knew Chen still wouldn’t approve of losing Zane to the caves. Clouse would wait and watch. At the first hint Zane knew too much, he would strike.
Notes:
Sorry Zane