Unraveling Stories - Chapter 39

<-Chapter 38

 

"Tomorrow begets the mystery of destiny."

 

Janus and Juniper waited for Tyrian and Cassie when they reached ground level. Tyrian was able to actually focus on them this time. He had only been dimly aware of their presence and their position as Stars in his sky. "Hello," he said. He studied Juniper and then Janus, and a smile tugged at his lips. "I apologize for not saying anything sooner."

"Please don't," Juniper disagreed. "We are the ones who wish to apologize, Lord Tyrian. There was nothing we could say or do to sway General Southerwind from his intent. We understood when he said that his life was already lost, but we didn't want the task to be on your shoulders."

Tyrian shook his head slightly. "There was no one else it could be," he admitted simply. "This was not simply some illness he had." His hands clenched at his sides for a moment and then relaxed. "I'm handling it. I can't say everything is alright because it isn't. But this has only made me more determined to remove Blaine entirely."

Juniper pulled a face. "I never liked her when she came on the scene. She just never looked . . . pleasant to me."

"I still say your Faerie blood is to blame for that, thin as it is," Janus said. "And I'll admit she fooled me initially, but it didn't take long to realize she was bad to the core."

"At the least, you listened to me about that," Juniper groused.

"I always listen to you. I just don't always act like I do."

Cassie's brows slowly raised and she looked at Tyrian. He just smiled. A bit bemused, she linked her hands behind her back. "How long have you two known each other?" she asked the knights.

"Years," Janus offered. "When I enlisted, Juniper decided to join me. When we were in our early twenties, we found ourselves in a battle with Foresalia." He shook his head. "We don't really talk about what we saw. But General Southerwind had us knighted."

"It's been more of an annoyance than anything," Juniper added dryly.

Never one to beat around the bush, Tyrian asked, "Why? Because it's much harder to keep your marriage a secret when you're constantly in the public eye?"

"I told you he'd notice," Janus said dryly as Juniper stared at Tyrian.

"I know my Stars," Tyrian said simply. "And, well, you do sound a bit like an old married couple." He smiled as he said it. "To be sure, just friends can bicker all the time, but they don't usually have that . . . particular look in their eyes, or tone in their voice."

Juniper winced a bit wryly. "There is no law saying you have to disclose your marital state, and I listed my next-of-kin as my sister." He had to grin. "Janus listed his husband, though. So, no one has ever questioned that Janus and I are best friends and always together; after all, Janus is married to a farm boy from our hometown whom he loves so very much. He talks about him all the time."

Janus grinned as well. "Do admit I stay close to the truth, other than changing your name. I have to have some way of bragging about you, don't I?" He added to Tyrian, "We were always lucky, too. General Southerwind always deployed us together."

"He knew the truth," Tyrian said simply. He cocked his head. "By your preference, do you want it to remain a secret, or be out in the open? You know that the laws will change, so choose what will make you happy."

The couple exchanged a look and then nodded. "In the open," Juniper decided. "I've never liked hiding how I feel, especially when Janus is his most frustrating. I keep wanting to kiss him to shut him up!" He snorted. "And, anyway, there are not enough married knights around. There's a strange stigma to knights that implies most of us stay unwed."

"I have a married lady in mind for knighting when the dust settles," Tyrian assured him. He opened his mouth to say more when he heard a sudden commotion from the direction of the kitchen. He had never heard Evelyn squeal like a child before, therefore his attention was understandably caught. "Pardon me?"

"Certainly. We're due to train soldiers anyway. If you need us, call us." Janus bowed gracefully and walked away with Juniper at his side as his equal. Though there was nothing intimate in their body language, Tyrian had a feeling that everyone knew Janus' beloved husband was actually not far from his side. He also had no doubt that respect for both knights meant no one spoke of what they saw so that they would not be separated for fear of a 'distraction'.

When Tyrian and Cassie got to the kitchen, they found Evelyn being swung around in the arms of a tall young man. Tyrian knew two things on one look. One, the two of them were either brother and sister or cousins, and two, the young man was also a Destined Star. The entire restaurant was happily buzzing, and he asked Aquatico, "What happened?"

The bath maker grinned. "Eve was flipping pancakes when this guy came out of nowhere. She dropped the pan and jumped on him. They've been talking so fast we can't understand a word of it, but they're both really happy."

Cassie hastily scooted over to the kitchen and saved the pan from catching fire. The pancakes were beyond repair, and she worked on prying them out. Lane was in the vicinity and created a quick breeze to blow through the area to remove the smoke and the smell. Tyrian walked over to his chef and cleared his throat.

Evelyn glanced at him and then laughed. "Oh, Lord Tyrian!" She wiped at her eyes and stood on her own feet. "This is Terrence Summers. He's my oldest friend; we went to cooking school together! We're cousins too, but we've been friends from the time we were babies. We're even the same age!"

"Our mothers had a bet on who would be older." Terrence grinned quickly and it lit up his handsome face. "Evie beat me out by two days, the brat."

"You were just lazy," she sniffed in return.

Tyrian found himself smiling. He knew how they felt because Marian had always been his friend as well as his cousin and surrogate older sister. "Welcome to Aon Castle, Terrence. Are you here to help Eve?"

Terrence gave a jaunty salute. "I'm here to help you, Lord Tyrian. Eve and I have stars that are cousins as well, so I am also a Destined Star. You can count on me to help feed the masses. I hate vegetables, though, so you won't see them in my dishes."

Whether it was destiny, a guess, or Evelyn being a tattletale, Tyrian had no idea, but he felt exceptionally grateful. "I'm not fond of them either," he admitted. "I will be glad to have your help. Eve has done a brilliant job keeping up with everyone, but she needs your help." He held out a hand that Terrence clasped. The white star instantly appeared on the new chef's shoulder. "Thank you."

"No, thank you," Terrence said softly. He released Tyrian's hand and rubbed his own together. "Let's make some breakfast!" A cheer rose in the restaurant and he laughed at Evelyn. "You have them trained."

"Of course!"

Tyrian smiled as he watched them take control of the kitchen with seamless teamwork. Glad for it, he grabbed a seat at a table with Emma, Dylan, and Thomas. All three were watching him very closely, and he found a smile for them as Cassie sat down beside him. "I'm handling it," he told them. "We're just here for some coffee. Matthias and the others are waiting for us." He cocked his head slightly. "How did Terrence get here safely, anyway? I thought he and Evelyn came from Larksville."

"Me!" a male voice said behind Tyrian. When the Kaiten turned around, the Grimalkin behind him grinned. "My name is Grimwell, though lots call me Grim. I have no idea why; I'm rarely ever grim."

Tyrian believed it. He smiled again as he felt the tug inside. In his moment of lowest hope and deepest despair, Stars had surged forward to surround him safely. He needed them and they responded. It was the miracle of his birth and he would always be grateful for it. "Thank you, Grim," he said, "for bringing Terrence here safely." He studied the sheath with daggers on the taller male's hip. "Medium or long range?"

"Medium, long, and if someone gets too close, I stab fairly hard too. I'm better on a large combat scale than a small combat, but if you point me at something, I can hit it." He saluted sassily, and his silvery eyes looked a lively compliment for his silvery hair and fur. His tail swung merrily behind him, covered in the same silver fur as his ears and hands. "Just leave it to me." He wiggled his brows. "I hear there's a lovely bard running around here who also uses daggers."

"Who happens to be good friends with another dagger user named Vee," Dylan noted dryly.

Grimwell winced. "Oops. I know Vee. She's a protective sort. I hope she at least lets me smile at the bard." He sighed wistfully. "I love watching bards dance. They're as free as the stars." He saluted Tyrian again. "Count me in the army, Lord Tyrian. I even wash dishes if needed."

"I bribe him with crepes," Terrence called, and set the room off into laughter.

Grimwell wandered off with a whistle, and Thomas said, "Myr's only fifteen!" He scowled. "He can't court her yet."

"He may only wish to flirt with her," Cassie said gently, "and that is perfectly acceptable at her age. He could even date her if she was interested back. He's a Star, Tom, just as you are. He won't hurt Myr." She smiled. "We should be more worried she'll break his heart." Certainly it seemed she had captured Thomas' heart as well!

Coffee was served shortly thereafter, and Tyrian and Cassie took their leave. Halfway to the meeting room, Raven caught up with them and rode along on her mother's back. She was wearing her leggings and tunic again, and this time a jaunty cap had been added that rested delicately on her pointed ears. "Fluffy slippers!" She stuck out a foot happily to show off the ridiculous, yet comfortable, house shoes a lot of people wore inside the castle.

"Indeed!" Tyrian tapped the bottom of her foot. "Very nice ones, too."

The six Lower Generals, Matthias, Cherry, Ewan, and Kyle waited inside the meeting room. Leonard was also present. He was slowly taking on more tasks and duties; as a mayor, he was well used to being in charge, and Tyrian guiltlessly took advantage of his organizational skills. He also intended to take advantage of his leadership skills soon enough, though he suspected only Matthias knew his intent. He sat down beside Marcus and asked quietly, "How is Marian?"

Strain still lurked on the general's face. "Doing better than she was the first day or two. She's a strong woman, and she's pulling herself up for you. She told me that she refuses to let you worry about her when you have your own pain to handle."

"I've turned my pain into determination." His green eyes burned as he looked around the table. "I want Blaine's head. This isn't about the Rebellion anymore. If you told me that I could lead the Rebellion or go after Blaine, then I would walk away."

"Lane said that this would happen," Kyle said quietly. "And we support you without question, Tyrian. You know that. I, more than any other, support you. When you go after Blaine, I will be by your side."

"And so will I," Ewan promised softly.

Tyrian nodded briefly. "Good." He looked at Marcus. "Blaine is after me. She will strike at the ones I love. I am trusting you to be Marian's protector. If she isn't with me, she will be with you. On the field of battle, she will ride with your unit or mine. If she has to be in a healing unit, you will ride with her instead."

"Done," Marcus said instantly.

Tyrian turned to Matthias. "I am removing Liang from active duty in battle unless absolutely needed. I want him here to protect Serentia, Tavi, and Raven. If something happens to Liang, the task of guarding my family will fall to Kyle, Ewan, or Laia. There is no one else I would ever trust with the task of guarding my daughter's life."

No one took offense. They understood entirely why he felt the way he did. Matthias linked his hands together on top of the table. "Then there is no time left to waste. Larksville is our next target. It stands protected by twenty units of Special Forces. We are now in a position to engage them thanks to the addition of General Southerwind's troops. Sir Janus and Sir Juniper have already begun enhanced training of our other troops. They make a . . . remarkable team, I must say."

"Yeah, I noticed that," Ewan said. "To be fair, they reminded me a bit of Laia and Rourke, how they can just read each other's mind."

Tyrian smiled. "Rightfully so. Janus and Juniper are married."

"Called it," Ewan told Kyle. "Pay up."

The Lower Generals also felt no surprise; most of them had become suspicious if not outright sure, and they had kept their silence for the same reason everyone else had. If a couple found a way to get around the ridiculous law, then they deserved the respectful silence of those around them. As Tyrian had noted, the knights were not the only married or engaged pair within the ranks of the Imperial Army who put up a lie about their relationship status.

Matthias just shook his head in sympathy. "Then their accomplishments are all the more note-worthy; it is very hard to hide a secret so significant when you are in the public eye."

"What do we do next?" Leonard asked. "Do we even know where the Special Forces stand in this whole scenario?"

"The SF are now under control of General Reyu." Vincent made a slight gesture. "We can't be sure if he has corrupted them or not."

Kell walked into the meeting room at that point and said, "Larksville has ceased to pay taxes to the capitol." As brows lifted, he grabbed the seat beside Cherry. "My sources have informed me that as soon as word was official that General Southerwind was dead, they promptly cut off all funds flowing to Trinan. Grace is checking on the state of Pardue to see if they have done the same. However, we have found no sign that the Special Forces have struck back at the cities for their sudden 'betrayal.'"

"Interesting." Matthias frowned thoughtfully. "Can we be sure the SF know that the taxes have been stopped and simply don't care? Or is it something they're unaware of?"

"They know." Grace walked in and sat down beside Kell. She deliberately bumped her shoulder against his, causing most everyone in the room to hide grins. "I have gotten confirmation that Pardue also ceased to pay their taxes. Supposedly, the lieutenant in charge of the forces outside Pardue 'accidentally' lost a missive from General Reyu. Coincidentally, the missive was found by someone in town. It specifically said to retaliate against Pardue for treason."

"And Reyu doesn't dare actually organize the attack himself," Tyrian said, "because he knows that he would be outnumbered at this point. If Pardue's militia joined with the SF, they'd be thirty-five strong. Reyu commands only twenty. He'd have to pull everyone off Trinan to take them down, and that would give me an open shot at the capitol."

"It wouldn't be worth his effort. At best, he can try to squeeze the city and hope that the lieutenant is as big an asshole as he is." Ewan huffed out an annoyed breath. "Which, obviously, they aren't. We might finally be culling the bad apples out of the barrels. By the time we get to the capitol, it's going to reek."

"And the people will be casualties," Matthias noted. "We will have to investigate possible ways of evacuating the people as the battle commences. For now, our eyes are set on Larksville." He grew thoughtful as he considered the possible ramifications. "With the current status quo, I do not think we need to play along with the farce of resistance. We played along with the checkpoints because it was time for Lord Tyrian to prove himself."

"I think he's proven himself time and time again," Kyle muttered distinctly. He held nothing against the Lower Generals for needing to be sure, but he was tired of the hoops Tyrian had to jump through. "If they're on our side, they can damned well just join us! The cities are safe from retaliation if the units outside are already proving to protect them."

Samantha opened her mouth and then closed it. She was silent for moments before saying slowly, "The Special Forces were under General Southerwind's control until Lady Annareal's death. We can no doubt assume that his reaction to the events was as much because of the curse he bore as it was her actual death."

Tyrian looked at her quickly. "You suspect that Father may have issued final orders to the Special Forces like he did to Janus and Juniper? Orders contingent on his death. If he is dead, then they are to join me in my battle." His hands gripped together under the table as he felt a sharp stab of pain inside. His father had left the fate of the country in his hands with the full knowledge that only he could save it. It had hurt to think his father had stopped loving him for following his heart. It hurt deeper to know he had never loved him more.

Cassie covered his hands with hers and held on. "Then we may only need to talk to the lieutenant in charge of the forces outside Larksville and Pardue." She drew his hands to her lips and held them there. His fingers felt like ice. "He said it himself, Tyrian," she reminded him. "He was going to join you to fight against Albanion and Blaine. He knew he couldn't so he made sure in every way he could that you would succeed. He believed in you the entire time."

Tyrian took a deep breath. "Thank you," he said quietly. He looked at Matthias. "I will take a party with me to Larksville. Have units on standby just in case we're wrong. At my side, I will take Cassie, Ewan, Vee, Kris, and Halkern." He turned to Raven and ran his hand down her hair. "Stay with your grandpa and grandma," he said softly.

She nodded and hugged him tight around the neck. It took a lot of willpower to let him go, and it was only when the door shut behind him that her lower lip began to quiver. "I hate this!" she shouted. She turned on Kyle as tears welled in her eyes. "It's not fair!"

Kyle scooped her up and cuddled her close as she cried against his neck. "I know, honey." He sighed as he looked at the other adults. They all felt the same way. "I know."

The uncanny connection between Destined Star and Kaiten was a strong and profound thing. Because of it, the rest of Tyrian's party waited for him near Miranda. They had felt his need for them and they had responded. "Larksville, huh?" Vee said. "It's been a while since I was back. Is that why you asked for me, to make the trip shorter?"

"One of the reasons. The other is how good your aim is." Tyrian looked at Miranda. "Vee has been to Larksville, so use her as a beacon."

"Okay, here we go! Gah!" The last was added as she narrowly missed beaning Rourke as he was going by.

Sadly, it threw her aim off, and it therefore threw off her magic. The party landed, literally, in the middle of the Special Forces units. Kris and Vee found themselves at the feet of a couple startled archers. Halkern landed somewhere near a mage unit. Ewan ended up in the middle of puzzled swordsmen. Cassie and Tyrian landed in the main unit, and Tyrian found himself at the feet of the lieutenant in charge.

The elder soldier studied Tyrian for long moments and then asked, "Have you ever had one of those days?"

"I'm having one of those years," Tyrian admitted on a sigh. "And despite the inelegant entrance, I hope you would still consider joining my forces. I'm not really in the mood to play games anymore. Either you stand beside me, or you stand beside Blaine."

The lieutenant dismounted his horse and offered a hand to Tyrian. "We stand beside the people," he said calmly. "General Southerwind told us that if we are to save the people, we must join with you. He fully believed you are the only one who can save this land. And I believe it too."

Tyrian took his hand and got to his feet gracefully. "Despite my entrance."

If anything, the lieutenant thought, it was only a further testament to Tyrian's character that he still looked every inch a leader even while sitting on the dirt. There was a fierce glitter in Tyrian's eyes that spoke of a spirit strong enough to lead thousands, if not millions. It was a glitter not unfamiliar to the older man. "You remind me of my son," he admitted. "Though if he had landed there, he would have asked me to join him before we started the conversation."

Tyrian smiled at that. "He sounds like a fascinating character."

"That he is. Rihou's only a few years younger than you." He bowed with all the grace of a long-time warrior. "My name is Divan Royaltine, Lord Tyrian. My skills are yours to command, as are my soldiers."

"Divan." Tyrian frowned thoughtfully. Around them, things had become a flurry of activity as the transition from Imperial to Liberation was made. Several of Tyrian's units transported in to help make the change, and Tyrian's party was making its way back to him. "I know that name." It dawned on him suddenly. "Wait, I remember. You were fighting on the side of Foresalia during a skirmish with Melodina."

Divan smiled. "Indeed! I was lamenting not getting to see my family one last time when your father came out of nowhere." He shook his head. "He told me to either fight beside him or sit out of the way. I chose to fight. From that day forward, he had my friendship. Not even a year ago, he contacted me and asked me to come join the Special Forces as a lieutenant."

Tyrian felt his stomach clench with fresh pain. "Roughly ten months ago?"

"Indeed." Divan's smile faded. "I arrived at Trinan just as you claimed Aon Castle. To be honest, a part of me thought Donald had called me out here to fight you. It was not long before I realized he expected me to eventually fight beside you. His final orders to us confirmed what I had known all along."

Cassie slid her hand into Tyrian's as she stepped up beside him. "I find it interesting that a Lower General from an enemy country would be allowed to come fight on behalf of the Empire. Or at least the people."

"King Utheron is not a fool," Divan said. "From the moment the Rebellion gained momentum over here, he has been watching. He knew of my friendship with Donald but did not argue against it. As long as it did not interfere with war, he didn't care. When I told him that Donald had asked me to come join the fight, he said that as long as I reported to him the goings-on, he was amiable."

"And where does Utheron stand now?" Ewan asked. He had come up behind Tyrian with Kris, Vee, and Halkern. "Is he going to start crap with the country protected by the legendary Kaiten Star?"

"No," Divan said instantly. "It is obvious now who the winner will be. Foresalia may not be an ally to whatever the Empire becomes, but they will assuredly not be enemies any longer."

Tyrian let out a little breath. It was one less pressure on his shoulders. He had hated all along the idea that two countries could so casually be at war for so long. He had no doubt that Foresalia would have its own troubles with the ruthless nature of so many soldiers, but the troubles would not touch the Empire. "Good."

"Only Pardue and Trinan after this," Kris murmured.

"For which I am also glad," Divan admitted. "I miss my family."

"Your wife and son?" Tyrian asked.

"My son and daughter. She's slightly older than Rihou. It's just Rihou, Naomi, and me since my wife died many years ago. While I am here, my kids have been staying with the family of Rihou's best friend." He shook his head on a wry smile. "The terrible two. I dread when they are adults. There will be no stopping them."

"Sounds like someone else we know," Halkern said dryly.

Tyrian ignored him. "Let's touch base inside the city before we head back to Aon Castle." There was a whisper in the wind, a sort of feeling in the air, that told him more friends waited inside the borders of the city that was even then beginning to hum with an air of excitement. Not paying taxes was one thing. Being officially liberated was another.

Larksville looked like Trinan but on a grand scale. It covered many square miles and had people everywhere. Some buildings were even three stories in height, a feat seen only in the highest level of cities. There were at least three or four of every kind of shop, and musicians played on several corners.

Both Tyrian and Cassie had a sudden feeling of being boxed in by all the people moving around them. Automatically, their relic hands clasped together in mutual support. It was a very disorienting sensation to feel as if you watched time move past while you held still. With every passing day, eternity affected them more strongly. Even Miranda, for all her vivacious and social personality, preferred to live out of the way of cities. It was simply another price to pay for bearing a Pure Relic.

A young man with short and spiky brown hair suddenly came out of nowhere and planted himself in front of Tyrian. "Tell me you know where my irresponsible band members are," he demanded.

Tyrian had to smile. "They're at my castle. You must be Capricorn."

"Cap for short." Cap sighed. "Taurus sent me a letter a while back saying that destiny bound her and Aries and Virgo to your side. Rather than risk my hide trying to get to the castle, I figured eventually you'd find me. I mean, obviously we're a package deal." He saluted with the guitar he carried. "You can count on me to help play the music that inspires you!"

"And keep the other three out of trouble?" Vee asked dryly.

Cap winced. "That too." He was almost afraid to ask what his friends had been up to lately. They had a knack for getting in trouble if he wasn't there to pull the reins. "Should I set out for the castle?" he asked.

"Wait for us," Tyrian suggested. "I have a mirror that can take us all home. I want to see if there's anyone else here waiting for me. I also want to speak with the mayor."

"Fair enough. I'll be waiting here for you." He sat down on a bench with a smile.

The party didn't get much further into the city before they were assailed by the sudden scent of perfume. It was two scents, in fact, and in clashing odors. It was so strong and potent that Ewan felt his eyes water. "Holy hell, are we somewhere near the city brothel?"

By tacit agreement, no one asked how he knew what the city brothel smelled like.

"Over there." Kris pointed over Tyrian's shoulder.

He followed her direction and barely hid a wince. Descending on the party like perfumed steamrollers were two excessively well dressed women. From the top of their curled hairstyles to the bottom of their fancy shoes, everything about the women screamed they were not only high society, but narcissists as well. Resigned, he stopped walking. Raven would get to see firsthand just why narcissists were considered vexing to everyone else.

"You!" The blonde pointed her fan directly in his face. "You are Tyrian Southerwind, correct?" Before he could speak, she rolled on, "Obviously you must know who I am! Everyone knows the name of the De Jardin family! Tell this . . . uncultured cow beside me that you are here looking for us! Of course you are, aren't you?"

The redhead snapped before he could speak, "Oh, come down off your ivory tower, Marigold! Obviously a man of such refined taste as Tyrian Southerwind would never stoop to wanting your kind in his castle! Only a Kween family member would ever bring some culture to that drab army!"

Marigold sniffed loudly. "Do not mind Frances. She is only sore because she has been stood up at the altar five times. Why, you would think there was something wrong with her!" She tossed back her perfectly curled ringlets. "You do not mind if I come out and bring some style, do you? Of course not! I will make my way there immediately!"

Frances sniffed back. "Of course you would think to walk when there is an army outside! I will simply make them take me along. Lord Tyrian is in need of style, not catastrophe, which is all you would bring." She turned on her heel and walked away, her fluffy silk skirts swirling around her legs.

Marigold went chasing after her and blessed silence descended. "Did you get a word in edgewise?" Halkern asked. "If you did, I missed it."

"I didn't try," Tyrian admitted. "I've discovered that it's better to let you all make your own decisions about your reasons for joining me. I'm simply too grateful that you're there. No matter how snobby those two are, there's a reason for them to be Stars. Something about them is what I need."

"A headache?" Vee grumbled.

Tyrian smiled. "You might be surprised. Come on. There's more to be seen."

The size of the city meant that seeing all of it in a few hours was near impossible. By the time evening approached, they had only covered half the landscape. The city was not in the same disrepair as other cities, but there was still a much more jubilant air. People believed that the war was already won, and conversations already flowed about what sort of new government they wanted. A republic seemed to be the general wish, but everyone was already putting Tyrian in charge.

"If they try," Kris promised, "we Destined Stars will sneak you and Lady Cassie and Raven out under the cover of darkness. They'll never find you."

They had been walking past a rather plain looking little building while she spoke, and Ewan abruptly stopped in his tracks. "Whoa. Tyrian, you need to see this."

Curious, Tyrian stepped closer. He instantly caught his breath in wonder. Hanging in the window of the small shack was a painting. It wasn't just any painting, though. It was a brilliant depiction of the battle outside Lupine when Tyrian had dueled the dishonest lieutenant. There was a great deal of love in every brushstroke, and he immediately went into the building. The others followed.

Paintings stood stacked all over the place inside the front area of the shop. Nearly all of them depicted Tyrian. The one that caught his eye in particular, though, was not only of him. It was of him and Cassie. It showed them dancing together at the inn during their one date, and the background had been blurred away until it was as if they were in their own world. "So that's what I look like," he said softly as Cassie knelt beside him. "That's how I look when I look at you."

It almost seemed as if the eternity that bound them was visible in the painting. Cassie could hardly believe she was looking at her own image, but she recognized the look on her face as she looked at Tyrian. She had never seen how she looked either, but it looked exactly as it felt. Powerful, unstoppable. A bit terrifying to love someone that much, to need him to be safe and smiling and believing in her. "Amazing," she breathed softly.

"Thank you."

At the voice, they turned to see a slim young woman standing behind them. The feline ears, fluffy tail, and tilted eyes spoke of her Grimalkin bloodline. Her paint streaked shorts and tunic spoke of her skill. Like others of the animalistic species, some Grimalkin looked more like a cat than a Human. Others looked more like a Human than a cat. The artist was caught in a strange and exotic middle ground that made her surprisingly beautiful.

Tyrian stood and fully faced her, and her eyes went wide. With a smile, he said, "May I buy this painting?" He gestured to the one showing him and Cassie.

She shook her head. "It's not for sale." She walked over and picked up the painting and then turned and held it out to him. "But it is a gift." She smiled and her pale green eyes crinkled at the corner. "I'm Catherine."

Since she knew well who he and Cassie were, he only gestured to the others. "Ewan, Kris, Halkern, and Vee."

She gave a little salute. "It's nice to meet you." She linked her hands behind her back and began to circle Tyrian while she studied him intently. She had seen him in her dreams for a long time, but there was nothing like having a model on hand. She nodded decisively. "You need family portraits. You're a dad, right?"

"I am."

She held up a finger. "Then you need portraits! And you need the best, so you need me! I'll illustrate your story, Lord Tyrian, and I'll bring color to the Liberation Army. You can count on me to show you the way we see you even when you're feeling oppressed."

"I have every confidence in you," he said firmly. "But watch out. Raven will become one of your favorite subjects."

The painter giggled. "I like kids because they're expressive. I don't mind at all!"

"We'll stay and help her pack up," Halkern told Tyrian and Cassie. "Come get us before you leave. You can probably cover a bit more ground."

Tyrian didn't mind at all. It seemed as if he never quite got enough time alone with Cassie, and he firmly tangled her fingers with his as they walked down the street. "I suppose some things even eternity can't stop." He brought her fingers to his lips. "My desire is to be alone with you. Preferably somewhere private and away from prying eyes. I tell myself that when this is done that we'll have millennia to be alone together, but I think I'm a greedy man."

If he didn't stop looking at her with that familiar heat in his eyes, she was going to find a private place to drag him off to at that very moment. "I'm greedy too," she admitted. "I'm not jealous of the other Destined Stars, exactly, but I also don't like to share. It's a very strange thing to feel. I want to hide you away where no one can find you."

"You promised you would once the war was done. I'll hold you to it." He stopped walking and tugged her into his arms for a lingering kiss. People who were going past began to whistle and giggle at the sight, but no one had the nerve to actually interrupt. There was something incredibly beautiful about the way Kaiten and Kentei glowed together under the halo of the stars. Protector and protected, hero and guardian . . . something was familiar about the image they presented though no one could put their finger on it.

"Ahem."

Tyrian reluctantly lifted his head, and his fingers glided over Cassie's cheek. Her eyes shimmered like melted blue gems, her lips begging for another kiss. It was highly tempting to just find the inn and stay there for the night. Having a six-year-old who could sneak into their room at any time certainly made things interesting. He wanted to take his time loving Cassie. He would happily take forever.

"Ahem." The feminine voice sounded highly amused.

With a sigh, he turned his head and found himself looking at a hauntingly beautiful young woman with a toddler perched on her shoulders. Both mother and daughter had matching powder blue hair and eyes and the elegantly pointed ears of ancient Elf blood. The woman wore a slim silver dress inlaid with relic symbols, but she wore no relics of her own. Instead, there were delicately tattooed symbols over her lower arms in the many symbols of lesser relics.

She was also a Destined Star.

She smiled as she saw the recognition in his eyes. "Hello, Lord Tyrian. My name is Jeanine Tallium. This is my daughter, Zellanna. I am one of the hundred and nine, and my star is a fixed position. I have known for many years that my path would cross yours. I am a Relic Master. It is my honor to offer my services."

"It is my honor to accept them," he said simply. "You are greatly needed, Jeanine."

Cassie studied Zellanna, feeling a distant sense of kinship not dissimilar from what she felt toward Jeanine. "Is Zellanna . . .?"

"Not yet," Jeanine offered readily. "Her path follows another for the future." She sighed fondly. "She wants to be a Scroll Master."

Zellanna beamed. "Like Daddy!"

"Yes, like your daddy." Jeanine shook her head in amusement. "Once the war is done, we will go back to the City-States to see him." She gave a graceful bow not at all marred by the child perched on her shoulders. "We will see you at the castle, Lord Tyrian." A little shimmer of light swirled around her and she disappeared.

Startled, Tyrian looked at Cassie. She smiled. "Relic Masters, by nature of what they do, tend to absorb bits of power from every relic they ever fuse to someone. That's why all those tattoos are on her arms. She can use a little bit of power from every relic. The flipside to that is that she will never be able to equip a relic herself."

"It seems a fair trade." He let out a long breath. "A future Destined Star," he murmured. "You recognized her but I didn't. That means the Kentei Star is considered a fixed position. An unusual fixed, I suppose, as Laia said fixed stars usually only belonged to one person. I wonder why."

Cassie thought about it. "Because fixing the position of the Kentei ensures that I, and therefore you, will be drawn to aid future Kaitens in whatever way we can, perhaps keeping them from stumbling around the way we have so often." She slid a glance up at him. "I suppose it is just as well. I'll have to give guidance to future Kenteis on how to handle stubborn, overworked, and bossy Kaitens."

He just smiled. "And I can give guidance on how to handle pushy, overprotective, possessive Kenteis." He stole another kiss. Against her lips, he said, "Should we stay here tonight or go home? I want to be alone with you."

Her fingers framed his face tenderly. "Let's have Unca Ewan distract Raven so we can be home. Our bed is much more comfy than any inn."

"It's a date," he agreed. He glanced around and let himself 'feel' the air of the city. It told him that there was no one else waiting for him. "Let's talk to the mayor then go home." With a little sigh, he said, "Ninety-two found."

The end was, finally, in sight.

  

©Stacy J. Garrett. Do not reprint or redistribute without permission.

Chapter 40->

Unraveling Stories - Chapter 38

<-Chapter 37

 

"Sometimes the sun doesn't set; sometimes the stars don't shine."

 

Tyrian's rest was cut much shorter than expected. He was awakened before dawn the following morning by the sound of shouting from the tower watch points. "To arms!" a guard shouted. "The Imperial Army approaches!"

Both Tyrian and Cassie leapt out of bed and rushed into their clothes. Tyrian's mouth was dry, his pulse pounding hard. He almost couldn't breathe as they rushed the elevator down to the courtyard and then ran across to the closest tower. He took the steps three at a time, his feet barely touching the stone. "Where?" he demanded when he got to the top.

The guard handed over the telescope. "To the north," he said. His face was drawn and his eyes deeply alarmed. It wasn't fear for the Rebellion. It was fear for Lord Tyrian and what he was about to see.

Tyrian looked to the distance and his stomach rolled violently. There were twenty units slowly approaching, and all wore the colors of the High General. At this distance, even with the scope, he couldn't make out who rode at the front. But . . . he knew. "We have half an hour at most," he said, and his voice somehow stayed calm. "Gather the Lower Generals and Professor Matthias. I also want Ewan, Kyle, and Lane. I will meet them at the meeting room."

"Yes, sir!" The guard saluted and hurried down out of the tower. The entire city and castle was waking, soldier and civilian alike beginning to rally and prepare for war.

Tyrian's legs gave out and he sank down onto the ground. Cassie leapt forward and held onto him fiercely, her heart breaking. "Tyrian."

"Why?" His voice broke on the word as he pressed his face to her stomach. "Why, Cassie? Why is this happening? All I wanted . . . all I wanted was to stop the Emperor from destroying our country. Why did Blaine have to get involved?"

A soft lavender light filled the air and Tanelia walked out of it. Her eyes looked dark and sad. "I'm sorry, Tyrian," she said softly. "In the end, this may well be my fault." Her gaze lowered. "Blaine . . . is my twin sister. I am sure you had guessed from my memoirs."

"If Kyle can't blame me for what my mother did, then I can't blame you for your sister."  His hands curled into fists at his side. He was only dimly aware of Cassie's presence as a glowing light inside that he clung onto with all his will. He wanted to scream that any of this had ever happened, but the screams remained locked inside. "She hates you for your eternity."

"And has sought for a million years to have her own. There is nothing good inside her, Tyrian. Too late, I saw that she was evil. She has . . . she has destroyed my happiness as well." Tanelia shook her head slightly. "It matters not what she has done to me. I knew, many years ago, that she would cross the path of the first Kaiten. And I can only say . . . I'm so sorry."

"No." The word was low and forceful. "Do not dare apologize for the evil of your sister. She does not even deserve to be called your kin." He looked up, and his green eyes blazed with a spirit that could not die. "There is nothing but good inside you, Tanelia. I can feel it. You have done everything you could to help me. You did not have to tell me the shame of your family, but you did." He got to his feet carefully. "She will never have a Pure Relic. Not mine, not anyone else's."

"I believe in you," she said simply. "I always have."

He very nearly asked her how the coming battle would play out, but he did not want to make her tell him the one thing he didn't want to hear if it was true. He would give everything he had, fight as hard as he could, and find the strength to accept whatever outcome would occur.

Tanelia took her leave, and Cassie held onto Tyrian. "I'm here," she vowed. "I'm not going anywhere."

"If you weren't here . . ." He didn't need to finish the thought. They both knew what not having her would mean for his sanity.

The Lower Generals, Kyle, Ewan, and Lane had assembled with Matthias and Cherry when Tyrian and Cassie walked in. Without preamble, Matthias said, "As soon as I heard, I had Shots run reconnaissance. High General Southerwind is riding at the front of his army. He commands twenty units, all of which are Special Forces. Two knights, Sir Janus and Sir Juniper, are also riding with General Southerwind. They are considered to be amongst the best of those under his command. They each sub-command ten of the twenty units."

"I've never met them," Tyrian said. "But I do know of them. They're roughly Laia's age. I remember when they joined my father. They were knighted young for extreme acts of bravery and heroism when confronting Foresalia."

"They are indeed formidable," Samantha agreed. "It does not surprise me that they would have come with General Southerwind. What surprises me is that he is even here like this." She shook her head. "Unless he is here to do what I did."

"It's not his style," he said very quietly. "He would not attack us unless he was intent on fighting. If he wanted to join us, there would be no farce. He would have simply shown up at the door and asked to be let in." He laughed, but it was self-mocking and made everyone wince. "Can't imagine where I get that from."

The doors opened and Hawke walked in. Her eyes glittered fiercely in her face. "Lord Tyrian," she said, "every Destined Star that is capable of field combat is joining you in this battle. We are gathering with the troops. All you have to do is tell us what you need us to do and who we are to follow. If you need us as unit leaders, we will do that too. You won't go into this alone."

Tyrian closed his eyes for a moment. "Thank you," he said softly. Their support meant nearly as much as Cassie's did. For the first time, he thought he truly understood why the Kaiten Star needed so many Destined Stars. His eyes opened and he looked at Kyle and Ewan. "You are in command of all sword based combatants. I leave the selection of troops and unit leaders to you. Samantha, I ask that you give them your aid."

"Done," Samantha said instantly.

The three hurried out, and Tyrian turned to Gordon. "You and Hawke will take command of ranged combat. Have Emma and Olan help you select the best archers." His gaze turned to Lane. "Have Verdure and Klint help you select our magical reserves. Rely also on Laia's skill if needed. Marian and Halkern are to have a full unit of Healers if at all possible. Doctor Kelan can ride with them."

"Consider it done." Lane hurried out of the room, his stomach sick with the knowledge of what occurred.

The other Lower Generals were given their orders as well, and Alex was chosen to personally select Tyrian's own troops. Yhalenia and Kotan were already assembling the two monk units, and the three former bandits would be working with them.

Matthias looked at Tyrian and said, "I will ride with you. Cherry will ride with Marian. All of us who can be on that field will be there, Lord Tyrian. I have already requested that Fay be readied for you so your unit can be mounted."

With a deep breath, Tyrian said, "There's nothing more to be done then. Let's get this over with."

 

The High General's army was vastly outnumbered by the total number of troops that the Liberation Army commanded. However, his troops were also much better trained than any except the Destined Stars. As such, Donald was not surprised to see thirty units emerge from the walls of the city and move forward into position. His heart felt heavy, and it had been ever since Blaine's vile order had come to him. Yet under the heaviness came incredible pride as he saw his son riding at the front of the Liberation Army. Tyrian had become a hero among soldiers, and he was every bit deserving of the mantle of Destiny's hero.

With a little smile, Donald touched his Voice Relic. "Hello, Tyrian."

"Hello, Father." Tyrian's voice was calm and unruffled, as it always seemed to be. Donald had always envied and admired his son's absolute serenity. "I admit," Tyrian said, "that I was expecting you sooner. Are you slowing down in your advanced age?"

"Well, being as I am apparently a grandfather now, I suppose I am entitled to my slower speed." He shifted his gaze to the black haired woman who rode beside Tyrian. "Master Cassie," he said, "I could not have asked for a better mate for my son. I find I can't say I am sorry I was not able to meet with you that first day. Watch out for my boy. He's too much like his old man."

Cassie's hand curled around Tyrian's wrist and held on as she sensed the inner shaking inside her lover. "If he is, then it's no wonder he is such an amazing man." She took a breath and urged, "General Southerwind, please. Lay down your arms. Join us. You know that we are not the enemy!"

"I can't." It was the simple truth. He had carefully planned every movement of this battle. He would not let Blaine win. This would be his final gift to his son. Everything was up to Tyrian now. He would save the Empire they loved. "I ask for a battle of skill."

Tyrian's brows lifted and he looked at Matthias. The strategist had a speculative look on his face. "A battle of skill," Matthias said slowly, "is a normal battle, but the intent is not to kill your enemy. Think of it as a unit sized duel. Everything is done the same way, but all soldiers know that they are to disarm, not kill. It matches range to range, mage to mage, and so on. I've never seen one done on this scale, but it is a surefire method of avoiding bloodshed."

"His troops are better trained," Tyrian said quietly. "Doesn't that swing the battle to his favor?"

"Under normal circumstances, I would say yes. But this is hardly normal, Lord Tyrian. I can't put my finger on it, but there is something about General Southerwind that has me on guard. There's something wrong. I can't determine why from this distance. It just feels . . . familiar." He nodded slightly. "General Southerwind," he said to the opposing leader, "we will accept your request. The engagement will be a battle of skill. But do not underestimate us."

"Ewan Grizmar," the black haired male riding beside Donald said, "I would ask that you match your sword against mine."

Ewan grinned. "Night, you up for smacking a knight around?"

"Not nearly as interesting as rogues, but I can be convinced," Night answered sassily.

The brunette on Donald's other side looked at Kyle. "Kyle Raitels, I would have you challenge me."

Kyle smiled. "Very well."

All other units matched up, and the extra ten units of Tyrian's stood by. If one of Tyrian's units was defeated, a unit of matching type could step in. There would be no calling strategy in this battle. The strategy was solely up to the soldiers on the field as they paired off one-by-one. Tyrian took a deep breath and said, "Let the engagement commence."

The battlefield became a cacophony of sound as the fights began. In some places, it was obvious that Tyrian's soldiers and unit leaders were stronger. In others, the favor was for Donald's side. The troops that Tyrian personally commanded pitted directly against the ones that Donald personally commanded. The unit leaders on each side met in the middle. Two lieutenants rode with Donald, and one looked at Matthias. "I yield without lifting a blade as you cannot enter combat."

Matthias inclined his head. "My thanks, lieutenant."

The other lieutenant smiled wryly at Cassie. "I am not so foolish as to engage a Tenth Class monk. I yield, Master Cassie."

Cassie nodded in acceptance, but her gaze remained solely on Tyrian. His face was calm, yet his fingers clenched so hard around the reins that his knuckles had gone white. They knew there was no way Donald would yield. The entire battle would end if either Tyrian or Donald was defeated.

Close up, Matthias felt more certain than ever that there was something wrong with Donald Southerwind. He still couldn't determine what it was, but he knew that the High General was not well. He glanced across the field and saw that Lane's unit stood idle after defeating its opponent. "Lord Lane," he said into his Voice Relic. "I require your knowledge."

Neither Donald nor Tyrian noticed. "Well," Tyrian said. "I suppose it would be foolish to ask for a surrender."

"I trained you better than that." Donald swung down off the back of his horse with the agility of a man half his age. He looked older than he had before, but he still moved like the warrior he was.

It was doubly painful for Tyrian as he dismounted and drew his staff. This close to his father, he did not feel the tug he felt when near a Destined Star. That left Donald's future as one empty slate. It was up to Tyrian to decide the outcome. There was no way for this to miraculously become right.

Donald drew his sword and swung it lightly through the air. "Let's see what you've learned over the last few months." Without waiting for a response, he lunged toward Tyrian on a shout.

This was no quick battle with an easy win. Father and son were almost equally skilled. Tyrian was more powerful magically, but he refused to use the Devourer. Even though they used different types of weapons, it made neither of them more or less lethal. Blood was drawn on both sides when the right strike managed to sneak past a guard.

Slowly, the rest of the battle ended around them. Enough of Tyrian's army had been victorious to be considered the winner, but it was no longer important. Ally and enemy stood side by side as they watched the duel that raged. No one liked what they witnessed. No matter who took a blow, everyone winced.

Tyrian suddenly seemed to take in a surge of extra strength from out of nowhere. He ducked under Donald's guard and slammed his staff into his stomach. The blow sent the older man flying to the dirt and he rolled several feet before stopping. Breathing hard, his eyes burning, Tyrian nearly shouted, "Yield, damn you!"

Donald didn't immediately get up, and when several seconds passed, Matthias said softly, "The engagement is over. Lord Tyrian is the victor."

There was no chance for anyone to cheer. Donald surged to his feet and went after Tyrian once more. A shout rose among the army as they realized Donald had broken the laws. Ewan and Kyle went for their swords but Lane ordered harshly, "Stand down!!"

The discontent flowed through both sides of the field, but no one moved. It was only Liang and Laia holding Cassie back that kept her from leaping forward.

Tyrian didn't notice. He had his hands full trying to fend off Donald. He didn't know what was wrong, what was happening. His father would never break the rules of engagement! It was as if he had deliberately forfeited his life. "Stand down!" he shouted.

Donald didn't respond with words, and his eyes looked fierce and determined. One particularly sharp swing of his sword cut clean through the middle of Tyrian's staff. He kicked the Kaiten in the stomach and sent him tumbling back across the ground. Without any obvious hesitation, he raised his sword and went in for the kill.

The deepest instincts inside Tyrian, the ones that made him survive in the harshest times, rose hotly. Encoded in his very soul was the indomitable spirit of a Kaiten Star, a spirit that above all else would always want to live. His hand closed around the closest half of his staff and he lunged upward just as Donald got close.

The severed end of the staff was a sharp as a blade. It slammed into Donald's stomach and went far enough through that it came out the back. The High General staggered past Tyrian as his sword fell to the ground. His legs gave out and he collapsed onto the dirt as blood began to flow.

Marian's scream of anguish ripped through the field and she tried to shove her way through. Marcus and Di found her and forced soldiers aside to let her run to where Tyrian knelt beside Donald. Liang and Cassie also ran as fast as they could to get to the scene.

Tyrian's face was white, his eyes so dark that the pupils disappeared. Dully, he said, "Why did you do that?" He didn't see Liang or Marian, was only dimly conscious of Cassie's presence. Something inside shook violently. "You forced me to do that. Why?"

Lane knelt beside Marian. "Blaine cursed you," he told Donald. "I could see it from across the field. That's why Matthias thought something was familiar about you. He recognized the way your lifeforce was being bled out. No matter what happened here, Blaine set you up to die."

Donald nodded slightly. There was almost no pain to be felt. There was nothing but relief that it was over. Blaine would not win. "I was going to leave," he admitted softly. "After Beelzebub. But she cursed me. I knew what she wanted. I won't let her have it."

Marcus pulled Marian into his arms and she buried her face against his shoulder as her entire body shook with her sobs. The other Lower Generals had come forward as well, and so had Janus and Juniper. "Why can't I heal him?" Marian wailed into Marcus' shoulder. "It's not in the critical zone! Not my spells, not even my raw magic—why?!"

Magicians and Healers became the magic they commanded. Marian's relics had changed her magic capacity to pure healing force, allowing her to use her raw capacity as another way to heal when her spells alone might not be enough. She had done it before; she and Halkern had both exhausted themselves by using up their capacities in such a way to heal Persephone's family. They could only use their magic within the range of the spells they had unlocked, but Marian had fully unlocked relics and a higher than average capacity. She should have been able to do something!

Lane slowly shook his head. "It's not just the wound he was dealt. His lifeforce is being recalled to Blaine. And there is a lot of life inside him. He was chosen well to be the father of a Kaiten Star. You can't heal lifeforce, Marian, I'm sorry." He looked at Tyrian. "You can stop this. You have to, Tyrian. You know you can't let Blaine have his life energy. You're not killing him. He was dead long before he ever stepped onto this field."

Tyrian's relic hand curled into a fist. "Bring Raven," he said evenly. "She deserves to meet her grandfather. Give me your cloak, Janus." He issued the order without hesitation.

Janus removed his cloak and spread it over Donald to hide the horrid wound. Even with the staff removed, it was a violent reminder of the task Tyrian had been forced to do. He and Juniper knelt side by side. They had been given specific orders, and having met Tyrian, they knew now why. Something told them that they, too, were destined to fight beside this man with the eyes of a hero. Neither could bear the sight of his suffering.

Ewan walked up with Raven in his arms and knelt to put her down. Donald focused on her, and he suddenly found a smile. "No wonder. No wonder Annareal loved her so. She's so much like you, Tyrian."

"Then she's just like her grandfather too." Tyrian took a deep breath. Time was running out. Even he could now feel the energy fleeing Donald's body. Already his legs and lower body were dead. There was no stopping what happened. "I love you," he said softly. "I'm proud to be your son."

"Hell, Tyrian." Donald closed his eyes. "I'm the one who's proud. There was never a day I wasn't proud of you." He grimaced as the numbness encountered his wound and the pain returned with a vengeance. He could now feel his body dying and the fleeing lifeforce was more painful than the wound itself.

"Hurry!" Lane urged Tyrian.

Tyrian's eyes closed and the runic circle opened around his body. The symbol of the Devourer appeared in the air over his head, visible to all who watched. He couldn't stand the idea of sending Donald to Hell, and he had done nothing to deserve Purgatory. His eyes opened suddenly and they had turned solid black. "Effervesce."

Ribbons of green and black power emerged from the symbol of the Devourer and flowed down to consume Donald. A bright glow emerged from his body and began to flow back up the ribbons to the symbol. When there was no more glow to be taken, the symbol and circle disappeared and the ribbons dissolved.

The High General was dead.

"He's smiling," Marian whispered.

Marcus held her tighter. "He's happy," he said roughly. "He died as a general. He gave his life for his people, just as every soldier who joins the army knows he or she might. There is no shame in that. There is no higher honor than dying for your country, or, for us, dying for our Kaiten."

Janus drew his cloak up over Donald's face. "Lord Tyrian," he started quietly, "Juniper and I were given orders contingent on General Southerwind's death. Those orders are to fight by your side. Please accept our vow as knights of the Empire to help you save our country and our people."

"Please also accept our dedication as Destined Stars," Juniper added. "We will fight by your side and give you our strength. If you need anything of us, it is yours." His voice broke and then steadied. He couldn't stand seeing Tyrian so quiet and pale. It was terrifyingly clear how close Tyrian walked to the edge of shattering.

One by one, then more, until it was a wave spreading across the field, soldiers began to kneel in respect for Donald and allegiance for Tyrian. Imperial and Liberation soldier alike, they were united as one. Tyrian slowly lifted his head as the wave spread and he watched as all fifty units on the field gave and re-gave their vow to fight under his flag.

It was too much all at once. Exhaustion came rushing in and he slumped over. He was almost pitifully grateful for the welcoming black of unconsciousness. Cassie caught him quickly and held him cradled in her arms. Tears slid slowly down her cheeks. "Tyrian." She buried her face in his hair and held on tight.

Quietly, Matthias said, "Prepare a hero's burial for General Southerwind. Sir Janus, Sir Juniper, I welcome you as a fellow Destined Star." He looked at Liang. "Can you carry Lord Tyrian?"

"I haven't tried since he was ten," Liang said. It seemed as if he had aged dramatically over the last few hours, with lines appearing at the corner of his eyes and mouth. "But I'm still a bit bigger than he is." It was just enough bigger that he was able to lift Tyrian from the ground to carry him on his back toward the castle. Cassie went with him, and Ewan picked up Raven to follow.

The Lower Generals, minus Marcus, took charge of the new twenty units. Marcus took Marian back to her room and stayed by her side as she suffered through a rage of grief that was both hers and her cousin's. She knew he could not cry, and so she cried for him as well. Why was Destiny so bitterly unfair to a man as wonderful as Tyrian?

The day passed quietly. Tyrian remained asleep while Cassie and Raven stayed near his side. Liang, with Serentia and Tavi's support, selected a space inside the city that would be the perfect place for Donald to be buried. Tavi then, with Yumi, Kami, and Mikey's help, picked out the prettiest stones they could find to be used as a grave marker.

It was several days before Tyrian finally awoke, and when he did, he woke to a pain that was more emotional than physical. It was not even dawn, if the sounds from outside were a clue, and he couldn't move his left arm since both Raven and Cassie were lying on it. He didn't mind. Their presence was welcome and comforting.

After a few minutes, he carefully extracted his arm and got out of bed. It was cold on the balcony since he only wore pajama pants, but he didn't care. He leaned on the rail and looked up at the stars. His burned as steadily as ever, and he could see how the others clustered much closer than usual as if to protect him.

He heard a sound behind him and said softly, "If it is the last thing I ever do, I will personally introduce Blaine to the Devourer Relic. She wants it so badly, I'll be glad to demonstrate its powers."

Cassie stepped up beside him and covered his hand on the rail. Even before he had awakened, she had sensed that the war was no longer about the Rebellion. It had become very personal for Tyrian. "I think if anyone deserves to be devoured," she concurred quietly, "then it would be her. I believe in an eye for an eye, but Laia put it better. 'Let the punishment fit the crime.'"

His fingers tightened on the rail. "A part of me just wants to go straight to Trinan and storm the castle. But I know I can't." He turned to look at her, and the natural intensity inside him seemed to roll off him in waves. "I will not lose. I am going to find my Stars, I'm going to end this war, and I'm going to kill Blaine. She will die by my hand."

"Good." She softly rubbed her relic hand over his with the intent to soothe rather than seduce. "That third spell in the Devourer. It was somehow beautiful to see. You called it Effervesce. Do you know what it means?"

"No."

"According to Zinfandel, to effervesce is to be reborn. While you can say that the spell is as deadly as the rest, how it does it is something else entirely. A mercy killing, perhaps, is a way to view it."

"It's little comfort, but it is some." He let out a long breath. "I've almost never used my spells except for the first time I've gained them; I just use raw magic. I don't think I ever will use them commonly. It needs to be an extreme situation for me to feel justified."

"There's nothing wrong with that, Tyrian." She ducked under his arm and wrapped her own around his waist. "You're a sorcerer, not a Thaumoturge. Same as me. If you were a Thaumoturge, you'd have a different Pure Relic entirely, and a different burden to bear."

He turned and held her closer. His hands skimmed over her back, enjoying the tactile feel of her silk robe and the warm skin beneath. Blaine was slowly taking away the people he loved, but he would never let her lay a hand on any of those that were left.

In a similar vein, Cassie was thinking of how terribly Blaine wanted Tyrian dead. She would stoop to anything to get him and his relic. Nowhere except the castle would ever be safe, not as long as that psychopath was still around. "I will never let her touch you," she vowed softly. "I swear I will die first."

He didn't bother to point out that if she was gone, then he had no reason to continue. He needed that fierce defense. He needed to know she was there to protect him. There were so many other things to think of that his own safety hovered low on the list.

He shivered suddenly and she smiled. "Inside with you." She caught his hand and drew him back into the warmth of the tower room. She shut the balcony doors and curtains and then caught her breath as his hands curled around her waist. The magic in his skin burned and tingled with intent. "Raven's asleep in our bed," she said breathlessly. "You wouldn't dare seduce me with our daughter in the room."

"You'll just have to be very quiet." He pressed his lips to the curve of her neck and tasted her skin. "She won't wake up."

"What if she does?" The protest was getting weaker as his hands and lips set fire to her body. She barely caught a moan as his hands slid up to cup her breasts. "Tyrian."

He lowered her slowly to the floor, needing the life she offered freely. He found salvation in her arms, and he needed it more than air. "She won't wake up," he said huskily as he unwrapped the robe.

Much to her mother's relief, Raven did indeed remain peacefully asleep until well after dawn. By the time she did stir, Tyrian and Cassie were dressed and preparing to go downstairs to meet with the others. She peeked around the corner to watch them put their shoes on and then asked, "Daddy?"

"I'm alright, honey." Tyrian picked her up and rubbed his cheek over her hair. "I'll be fine now. Do you want to come with us?" When she nodded firmly, he put her on her feet. "Then scoot back to your room and get dressed."

"Okay!" A thought occurred to her and she frowned thoughtfully. "Was there a funny noise last night?"

Cassie felt her cheeks heat. "I didn't notice anything."

"Oh. Okay." Raven hurried out of the tower and hopped into the elevator, unconcerned with strange noises since her parents hadn't heard them.

Tyrian's grin looked more than a little wicked as he curled his hand around the back of Cassie's neck. He kissed her hard and hungry and then murmured against her lips, "I told you to be quiet."

"Oh shut up." Despite herself, she found herself smiling. He had a terrible devilish streak, but she wouldn't have changed him at all.

©Stacy J. Garrett. Do not reprint or redistribute without permission.

Chapter 39->