jewels of kirona

8/6/2019 Jewels of Kirona

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Prologue

The gods were at war over the land they created. The gods oflight wanted peace and tranquility. The gods of darkness, however,wanted suffering and chaos. Neither wanted a compromise except thegoddess of peace. She bore a daughter named Kirona with the god ofsex, a god of darkness. The god of sex never really could resist an offereven if they were on the opposite sides.

Kirona came in the form of a beast. She had scales all over herbody, large wings, a long tail, and she had the head of a serpent. Shewas something that no god had ever seen or imagined. A mix betweenlight and darkness, she was a goddess that was sent to bring peaceand she did, but the others feared her. When she settled the war, shetook half of each gods power for her own. The gods were outraged sothey tried to take their power back, but she put boundaries aroundeach gods domain forbidding them to enter one anothers domain.She claimed the skies for her own benefit.

Soon she began to abuse her power, coming to like it more andmore and with it she created more and more creatures that looked likeher; men and creatures alike came to call them dragons. Centuriespassed and the gods became more outraged by Kirona they sent threeheroes to destroy her once and for all. They called on a kingly warrior,a sorcerer, and an alchemist. When they had reached the fearsomeKirona she laughed in their faces.

You send these cowards to defeat me an almighty being, shemocked with a gleam in her ruby eyes. I can defeat even you, what

makes you think these three can defeat me.The battle began and they fought on for three days and threenights. The three heroes were tiring and losing hope of winning untilthey felt the gods power flow through each one of them, boosting theircourage, stamina, and power. Finally the mighty Kirona fell and thegods took back their power from the mighty mortals. All that was left ofthe mighty Kirona were her unblinking, ruby eyes.

Her eyes store both her power and ours and we cannot removethe power, so its up to you three to keep it out of the wrong hands.You need to make a powerful amulet that can bring the two jewelstogether in a time of need, but until that time is needed you three

need to go your separate ways. Pass it down from generation togeneration and keep in touch. We may need your help again youngheroes, the gods said in unison to them.

So the young alchemist did make the amulet and the three left togo their own separate ways. The heroes also passed down theirburdens to the oldest child.


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1

Five year old Aveline was patiently waiting for her mother tofinish her work so she could play with her. She was standing near thewindow in her mothers study, looking out at the garden below. Shesmiled as she watched how the baby ducklings followed their motheraround like they were playing a game of chase with her like her andher mother would be doing soon. She soon lost interest, however; andstarted pacing the room, running her hand along the many volumesthat lined her mothers wooden bookshelves.

She heard her mother heave a heavy sigh followed by a fewcoughs behind her and she turned around. Her mother was looking upsmiling. Her mother had long brown hair, blue eyes, and fair skin.

How about we go play that game of chase now, she saidgetting up, placing a soft hand on Aveline's shoulder. You are it.

She watched as her mother started running around the roomslowly and she started running after her. They circled her motherslarge wooden desk she had been working at and then her mother ranout of the room and down the hallway. Her mother made the mistakeof going around a corner to a dead end and the only way out wasthrough her. She ran for her mother as fast as she could and caughther in a tight hug. Her mother sat on the newly polished stone floorand Lorana sat in her lap.

She noticed the ruby necklace her mother always wore around

her neck, and so she picked it up to examine it more closely. While sheadmired the stone she heard her mother cough and it startled her. Hermother reached up, took the stone from around her slender neck andput it on Avaline.

Why dont you have it, I think it will do thou more good than I.But mamma it is yours, she said a little worried about taking it.Yes darlingit isbut I want yyou to have it, her mother

coughed, but then her coughing got worse. Go get someone shecoughed again.

Aveline got off her mother and ran down the hallway to thenearest servant. She could still here her mother coughing.

Mamma needs help, she said a little worried. The servant bowed and followed Aveline. Her mother was nolonger coughing, but when they reached her she was now lying on theground. Lorana ran over to her mothers body, while the servant justran off. Her mothers blue eyes were closed. When she grabbed hermothers hand she gasped, it was so cold.

She stroked her mothers brown hair and cried.Mamma wake up, we are not through playing. Get up, she said


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shaking her mother. Mamma, get up.She felt strong hands pick her up and hold her against a hard

chest.Shhh, It is all right, she heard her fathers voice say.She was crying into his shoulder and he was stroking her brown

hair trying to calm her down. She knew her father was crying too,because she felt his tears hit the back of her neck.

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"Your Highness, we have found the cause to your late wife'sdeath," the royal physician said.

"Well, are you going to tell me or nay?" King John asked angrily.He was upset his wife died, and aggravated with the lack of answers asto why.

"I think it has something to do cystic fibrosis. We do not know

much about this disease, but it is alarming to find she has survived thislong with it."This didn't help his mood at all, he wanted to shout at the world

but couldn't. "Get out of my sight," he snarled.

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Aveline was dressed in black as she held her fathers hand all theway to the royal graveyard. The priest of Bane prayed over hermothers body as it was lowered into the ground. They buried her withone of Aveline's favorite dolls so she could remember her in the

afterlife, her crown; so she could be recognized in the afterlife, and oneof her father's rings to remember him. When she was buried, they puttinder over her grave and burned. She grabbed the necklace that usedto belong to her mother, hoping that it would somehow make her comeback. She felt her father squeeze her hand in comfort. Who was shegoing to play with now, who was going to do all the stuff that she andher mother did together?

Certainly not the nurse, no; all she did was give her lectures anddiscipline her if she acted up. She never did anything fun with her. Somany tears escaped her green eyes, that they blurred her vision andshe kept wiping them away with the back of her hand until finally she

gave up. She kept holding on to her father, but no comfort came.

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Ten years later a war was starting between Forlaine, one of thethree major continents and its capitol being Crayton, and Elourn,another of the major continents with its capitol being Tralack, and


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Loranas birthplace. His Majesty King John, King of Elourn, was tryingto make peace between Saleria, the last major continent its capitolbeing Arban, because war was brewing between the two and there wasno hope for peace with Forlaine. A prejudice was growing betweenSaleria and Elourn; and Forlaine was just ruthless and barbaric,

stopping at nothing until it gained control of everything. King John wasreading a letter sent from King Crewe II, King of Saleria, stating thatthe only way to calm their people down before they started a riotwould be to have Prince Brom marry his daughter Aveline. He sighedand ran a hand through his short grey hair as he realized that he wouldhave to put his daughter into an arranged marriage not at all what hewanted.

He was hoping that she might fall in love with a prince that wayshe wouldnt be forced. She wouldnt be happy, but he was her fatherand King so what he said went. He motioned for one of the guardsstanding in his dimly lit study to bring him Aveline immediately. When

he left, he frowned while writing his acceptance letter on some alreadyprepared parchment. Aveline was taking a stroll in her mothers rosegarden that her father had ordered to be kept the same. Rowan,Captain of Elourn Militia, was walking beside her, guarding her. Shefound Rowan extremely handsome with his short black hair, long scaralong his left cheek, grey eyes, toned muscle, and tan skin.

But his looks were the least of all reason why she liked him. Heskind, caring, charismatic, protecting; although the latter was probablybecause of his job, though he took it more seriously than the others,charming, intelligent, and had a brilliant smile. He also made herlaugh when they talked and he made her feel as if he wanted to be

there just to talk and not just to do his job. She loved his personalityand only hoped that he liked her, too.

Rowan, may I ask you something? She asked biting her lip notsure how to word it.

Yea, they both now sat on a stone bench near some of therosebushes.

Lorana breathed in the floral scent gathering up her strength totell him how she felt. Finally she got the courage, Rowan I

Your Highness, your father requests your presentsimmediately, a royal messenger said bowing before her.

She sighed as she got up to follow him to wherever her father

was. She was so close to telling him. All this time and when she finallygets enough courage to tell him she loses her chance. She sighedfrustrated, moved at a slower pace, stopped and asked him where herfather was. When he told her that he was in his study, she sent amessage up ahead of her telling her father that she would be thereshortly.

When they were finally alone again, she started again. Rowan,Iwillwill thou she sighed in frustration not knowing how to state


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it and the wind picked up blowing her hair around her face and makingher velvet red dress blow around her ankles.

My apologies your highness, but may I say something first?Rowan asked.

Yea, she needed more time to figure out how she was going to

word it.Princess, he started kneeling on one knee. I have wanted totell you for a very long time now. Im sorry I have put it off for way toolong now; I just did not know how thou would have reacted. I like you, Ireally do. Will thou court me? Rowan felt stupid after he asked it, hecould tell what the answer was just by looking at her face, but howcould he not ask her, she was beautiful with her long dark wavy brownhair, green eyes, and fair skin.

She looked shocked and was probably horrified. She was goingto say nay.

IRowanuscourt, she was shocked that he had asked her

first. She didnt know what to say and she kept stammering over herwords. He practically took the words right out of her mouth.My apologies your highness, I understand if you want me gone

now. It was stupid of he started, getting off his knee but beforeRowan could finish his sentence, he felt lush lips on his kissing him.When he realized what was happening the kiss broke off before hecould kiss her back.

I am sorry, I should not have done that. I do not know whatcame over me, Aveline was embarrassed and horrified by what shedid. She just got caught in the moment by his question and the nextthing she knew was that she had kissed him and broke it off.

Do not be, I am not, Rowan said kissing her back. She tastedsweet and he didnt want to let her go.

When Rowan kissed her, she fell into it. He was so warm andtasted so sweet. The kiss went from sweet and charming to hot andpassionate in an instance. Rowan, not knowing what had gotten intohim, tickled her moist lips with his tongue until she allowed himentrance and then he began to explore. He broke the kiss off after afew minutes and whispered against her lips.

Aveline was confused why he broke the kiss off until hewhispered softly against her mouth, Thou needs to go see what yourfather wants before he sends someone after us again.

She had completely forgotten about her father in the heat of themoment. She heaved a heavy sigh before sauntering off. Rowanwatched as she strolled off and then began to follow her, because itwas after all his job to guard her. He had no idea why he had kissedher so passionately. It was meant to be a harmless kiss that told herthat he felt the same way, but instead it turned into hot fire thatscorched his very essence.

King John paced around the room trying to think of what else he


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might add in the letter and wondered just what was taking Lorana solong to get here. He finally thought of how to close his letter, satdown, and began to write. Just then Aveline came sauntering in theroom with a wide smile and a rosy blush on her face.

You seem happy this morn, Aveline's father stated.

Yes father, I am. Is it not just a wonderful day? She asked. Shecouldnt wait to tell Margaret, one of her maids and her friend since herfather wont let her out of the palace much.

Aveline, this may or nay make you even happier, but you aregoing to get married to Prince Brom of Saleria, he stated trying to stayoptimistic.

The smile vanished instantaneously off of Aveline's face,MARRIED, I CAN NOT GET MARRIED!

DO NOT RAISE YOUR VOICE AT ME YOUNG LADY, I AM YOURFATHER AND YOU WILL DO AS I SAY AND THAT IS FINAL!

But

Nay buts, it will help prevent a war that both King Crewe II and Ido not want, he was still agitated at Aveline for raising her voice athim. He is her father after all, shes the child and hes the parent.

Aveline ran out of the study devastated. Now how was shesupposed to be with Rowan? They had just shared a wonderfulmoment together, and now what her father did just cancelled that out.She would never love anyone the way she does Rowan. She knew itwas probably too soon to think about something as strong a word aslove, but after what her father told her, how could she love any otherman but Rowan.

She ran to the east wing of the castle, her wing, down three

corridors to her room, stopped in the third corridor almost near thefourth where her room lay and hit the wall. All of a sudden the wallbroke apart and before her lay a spiral staircase leading the gods onlyknew where. She started backing up away from it and hit againstsomething solid. She never remembered the hallway being thisnarrow, so she looked up and there was Rowan looking worried. Rowanjust kept looking from her to the newly made opening in the wall.

Shall we take a look inside? Rowan asked, his curiosity gettingthe better of him.

Nay I do not know but before she could finish her sentence,He was already going up the stairs.

Aveline went to follow him and as soon as she stepped foot onthe first step, the door closed and it became pitch black. She froze,panic hit her. She didnt know whether to scream or start pounding onthe wall and hope it opens. Choosing the latter, she started bangingon the wall and it opened on the first hit. Glad she didnt have toscream out and get anyone started after her.

The next thing she knew was that Rowan was right next to herwhen she had left the room. The door closed in that moment and


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Rowan started walking off.Where is thou going? Aveline asked. After what had just

happened to her, what with her fathers news and now this, she didntwant Rowan to leave her alone.

I am only going to get a candle so we can see what is up those

stairs, Rowan replied. Ill be right back, I promise.Aveline stood there and waited and within a few moments Rowanwas back holding a lit candle. She watched as he punched on the doorand he held out a hand toward her. She reluctantly took it, she didntwant to go up there; but then again, it did strike her curiosity. All thistime there had been a secret stairway leading to a secret room orrooms on her floor and she didnt know about it. This time when thedoor shut, panic didnt hit because it didnt get unexpectedly dark.

After thirty or so winding steps, they finally made it to the top.The room was circular, bare except for a few candelabrums withoutany cobwebs covering them. They were also filled with used candles

and Rowan used his lit one to light the others. The room grew brighter,but not by much. Huge shadows were cast around the room as dimcandles shone on them.

The floor was surprisingly clean, not a single speck of dust on thefloor. She wondered how that couldve been accomplished then shethought of her answer, magic. Her father despised magic and hardlyhad anything to do with it, so she knew that her father had nothing todo with this. She was also sure that he knew nothing of this place.She looked at Rowan to see what he was doing and shed a tear.

She hated that they would have to hide their love for each other.Rowan looked over at Aveline and saw her trying not to cry.

What is wrong my sweet?I am to getting married, Aveline said not looking at him.Rowan fell silent; he didnt know what to say.He thinks that if I marry Prince Brom of Saleria, then it will

prevent a war with Saleria. I told him I did not want to marry him, butFather would not listen.

Rowan walked over to Aveline and embraced her, petting her,trying to soother her and in the process he soothed himself. Married tosomeone else, it made his blood boil. He couldnt stand the thought.He wished he could just go up to her father and say that she was his, infact he might just do that.

I am going to go up to your father and say that you are mineand no one elses, Rowan told her.

Nay, thou must not. He will have your head.Then so be it. I ca not stand the thought of you marrying

someone who you do not want to be with and since I am who you wantto be with, then I wll tell him so and that will be the end of ourconversation.

Nay, you must not. Please promise me you will not do it.


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Rowan went silent before reluctantly saying, I promise. Heheaved a heavy sigh; this wasnt the last of this conversation though.

They spent the next few minutes in silence. Aveline sat down onthe floor and Rowan began to pace. The silence was getting a little toointense, but neither knew how to break it.

I think we need to go before someone notices we are missing,Rowan suggested, finally able to break the silence.Aveline nodded, stood up, embraced Rowan, ran down the stairs

to her room, shut the door, leaned against it, flung herself on the bed,and new tears came bursting out of her eyes. She sat up and lookedaround the room for some sort of comfort. Her carpet was red andembroidered in gold, Elourns colors; it gets cleaned at least threetimes a day. Her gaze went over to the cream colored couch that facedthe fireplace on the eastern wall. Her large cream colored bed, bigenough for two people to lay in side by side with plenty of roombetween, which lay to the north wall.

The beds many pillows which were neatly aligned atop thecream sheets, both with gold embroidery that matched the rug, werenow askew when she had thrown herself on the bed. Her family coat ofarms rested at the foot of the canopy above her bed. The coat of armswas a lion with two blades crossing over it. The canopy had creamdrapes hanging from it that allowed her privacy when she wanted it,but now they were tied to the wooden bedposts. No where did she findcomfort except for her mothers necklace around her neck.

At that moment Margaret came into the room carrying cleandresses. She did a curtsy as best she could but with her arms full, itmade it look awkward. She then walked to Aveline's bed, laid the

dresses down, opened the closet entrance on the northern wall, andthen busied herself with putting the dresses away.

Oh Margaret, what am I to do? Aveline asked tears stillstreaming down her face.

What troubles you m lady? Margaret asked.Margaret is the same age as Aveline and her mother was also a

servant. Lorana played with Manora when they were little and herfather disliked it. Her first nurse however liked the idea of themplaying together and snuck them little play dates. Her father found outabout it and specifically stated how he did not like his daughter playingwith children of lower status and fired the nurse. Then when they got

older and they passed each other they talked and they also talkedevery time she came in to clean her room. She had long blond hair,light purple eyes, maids outfit, and fair skin.

Promise me you wont say anything to anyone?I promise mlady.I Im in love with Rowan and so is he with me she whispered

through sobs.No wonder you are upset. What do you plan to do about it?


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She asked.That is not why I am upset. I am upset because I am to get

married to Prince Brom. I want to be with Rowan not him. I wanted tocome here happy and to tell you we kissed, not like this.

Margaret was silent for a long time, finally she said, I will not tell

anyone mlady, I hope you know what you are doing.She curtsied and left Aveline all alone in her room.2

One month later, Aveline awaited her new fianc at the crowded,noisy docks with her father, and more awkwardly, Rowan. Finally, aship came into view and their wait would be over. Aveline, however,was dreading to meet Brom. She grabbed for her mothers necklacefor comfort. She risked a glance towards Rowan and he seemedunnervingly calm.

Rowan felt like he would burst into a million pieces if he stood

there one moment longer. Unfortunately, he couldnt go back to thecarriage to get away from it all. The ship was edging closer and closer,but to Rowan it seemed to be getting further and further away. Hetried his hardest to look and stay as calm as possible for Aveline's sake,though he didnt seem he could last much longer. Brom was up ondeck longing to be on land.

He was ecstatic when he was actually able to see Elourn. Hewasnt, however, thrilled to marry Aveline. The only reason he agreedto it was because her name matched the one on the list of guardians.After his mentor had mentioned the Jewels of Kirona in one of herlessons, he became obsessed with finding the other two remaining

pieces. His mentor had one half of the stones, all he needed now isthe other half, the amulet, and someway to get the other half of it fromLia, his mentor.

If it was true, and Aveline, his soon to be wife, was the otherguardian, then he shouldnt have a hard time getting it from her.Finally after several moments of agonizing moments the shipspassengers started to unload. Aveline noticed him immediately. Ofcourse it wasnt that hard to spot him since he was a prince, guards oneither side of him, and girls swooning over his dark looks. He,however, made her wretch.

They made their way towards him as the crowd formed a path

and bowed along side it. Rowan walked beside her, making this evenmore awkward. Three other guards were posted behind them, in frontof them, and beside her father. Brom just stood there before coming tomeet them with his guards. Finally when they were close enoughAveline curtsied.

My lord, she forced a smile so that she wouldnt appear to berude.

My lady, he said bowing then took her hand and kissed it


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smiling.She was the most beautiful women he had ever laid eyes on.

Maybe their marriage wouldnt be a total loss besides that jewel. Hissuspicions about her being the guardian proved to be true when hesaw her ruby necklace dangling from her neck that looked exactly like

his mentors. Maybe he would not only have an open way to the fullstone with this woman, but he might also enjoy her company. Hereleased her hand from his kiss and bowed one more time.

Rowan bit his tongue to keep from biting off Aveline's head whenhe saw Brom kiss her hand. He studied Brom, short black hair, tanskin, toned muscles, eyes so brown they almost look black. He noticedthat Brom looked at her with a hungry look in his eyes that he didntlike one bit. Before he could act out of rage, his Highness King Johninterrupted his thoughts.

Why do we not head back to the palace and make thearrangements? King John suggested.

Yea, Brom said offering his arm to Aveline.She hesitated, her father cleared his throat, and she took hiselbow as to not be rude. What she really wanted to do was to dosomething unladylike and spit on him. They started walking back tothe carriage when a young boy got pushed into the path that wascreated by the watching denizens. He was covered in dirt, too skinnyto be healthy, black hair, eyes were closed, and his nose was bloody.The guards tensed up as Aveline let go of Brom's arm and ran up tohim.

She took out her handkerchief and started to wipe away theblood ignoring the gasps and awes of the watching crowd. Two noble

boys came running out of the crowd and stopped when they sawAveline and tried to back into the crowd before she saw them but itwas too late. The tallest had brown hair, pale complexion, blue eyes,and a little bit of blood on his right hand. The other had blond hair, tancomplexion, and brown eyes.

You two, did you do this? Aveline asked calmly.Yyyea, bbutthe taller one started but the boy in her

arms moaned interrupting him.Bow down to her highness, someone in the crowd told the

boys. They both complied for they probably got too scared to

remember manners.But what? she asked still calm even though thats not what she

felt.Hhe was trytrying to stststeal money from my pock

pockets and his, he gestured to his friend.She realized then that he wasnt scared, for he didnt sound

scared; he just had a really bad stuttering problem, nervous maybe,but not scared.


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Stealing is not tolerated, but by the looks of him I ca not reallyblame him. Look, he is half starved. Surely you could have spared hima few coins; you are the sons of noblemen. It is not like you did nothave enough, Aveline chided.

Then the boy started to arouse. Brom couldnt believe what he

was seeing. His fianc being nice to a thief, how dare she. He wasembarrassed. He couldnt even imagine what her father had to sayabout this. He risked a glance at him and saw his face turn a shade ofred, but he could see that he was trying to restrain himself.

What is your name? Aveline asked the child.Ethan, he replied with a weak voice.Does thou have parents?Nay, his voice sounded even weaker.Ethan needs medical attention and I would also appreciate it if

he would be allowed to work in the kitchens as a servant, it soundedmore like a command than a suggestion.

A guard came and picked him up before Aveline could have theopportunity of issuing the order again. He watched as Aveline stoodup, dusted off the front of her dress and turned to the two boys.

You should be ashamed of yourselves, she said and before shecould do anything else King John started walking and he followed him.

When he reached Aveline, as embarrassed by her actions as hewas, he offered her his elbow again and she took it. Rowan couldntbelieve his own eyes at what just happened. He was now carrying thechild that Aveline had issued to be a servant in the kitchens and hecant believe that she had just defended a thief. Sure he was just achild and an orphan at that, but he was a thief. Finally they made it to

the carriage and King John ordered Rowan to walk alongside thecarriage instead of riding in it.

I can walk Ethan said.Are you sure? Rowan asked.Yes.Rowan sat the boy down on his feet and the boy faltered a little

but he gained his strength back in no time. Aveline was sitting acrossher father next to Brom getting a lecture.

How dare you embarrass me like that, defending a thief? Ithought by now you would know better. When you were younger I hadto ban you from seeing that servant girl, even though now she is your

chambermaid, now you want to help thieves. What kind of house am Irunning here? her father demanded.

Father, he was a starving child and she started but her fatherinterrupted her.

And a thief, and we are royalty and the only way we getinvolved with peasant affairs is by setting and upholding the law.Peasants are like crops and we are the farmers. Without the farmershelp, the crops would wither and die. But peasants are also like


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animals and we are the hunters. They have to fend for themselves,without breaking the law, or die.

Only the strong can survive, but they have to do it withoutbreaking the laws we set upon them otherwise the hunters will take outthe troublemakers. You Aveline are acting like a troublemaker and I

cannot have this. You are to be confined in your wing and you may notleave your wing until I say you can.FatherDont Father me, or I will make it to where you will not even be

able to leave your room.She said nothing more and looked out the window towards the

scenery that was moving past them. She felt Brom grab her hand andsqueeze it. It disgusted her.

Do not fret my darling; I will come up there to see you everyday.

Tears ran down her face, the only thing she could do was be

happy that the entrance to her and Rowans secret room was in herwing and they could still have their secret meetings. She gazed out atthe passing scenery which was now mesmerizing her, orange, red, andyellow leaves covered the trees. Dead ones that had fallen coveredthe ground and made crunching noises as the carriage rolled overthem and the horses trotted on them. She became so mesmerized shebarely came to her senses when Brom started talking.

My lord, when are you expecting our marriage to happen sinceyou are the one overseeing everything?

I suspect in a month or so. I wish her mother Carolyn was here,she would have been so happy to see your marriage.

A new pain started at the mention of her mother, she missed herso much. Now her father has found a new way to torment her.Discussing her mother with someone she despised. New tears startedrunning down her face. Brom almost felt sorry for Aveline, but everytime he did he just reminded himself how embarrassing she had acted.

She deserved the treatment she was getting, she had just betterbe glad it wasnt him giving the punishment. He would have done a lotworse. Finally the carriage pulled up in front of the castle.

You are to go to your quarters immediately, King John ordered.Rowan watched as Aveline walked off, obviously in a distraught

mood. Ethan came up behind him and he held his arm out to stop him

from walking any further. Ethan stopped and looked towards theground. Rowan took his attention away from the boy and returned it toAveline and instantly got upset when he saw her disappear through thedoorway with Brom at her arm. He hated Brom with a passion.

Take him to the servants quarters and send for the physician,he said to a passing servant and pointing at Ethan.

When she complied, he went to the training grounds. When hegot there, he met up with Cane and Trey, Trey has black hair, wiry


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body, hazel eyes, and tan skin. Cane has brown hair, green eyes, tanskin, and was muscular. They practiced with practice swords on eachother. He watched in silence for a few moments while Cane parriedTreys upper cut, then Trey ducked a swing that would have taken offhis head if he hadnt ducked and they were using real swords. Cane

moved forward with every swing, backing up Trey, and their swordsmet and Cane was able to throw Treys sword to the ground and put hissword to Treys neck. Trey threw his hands in the air and laughed.Cane put his sword down and smiled. Sweat was running down theirface and neck and they were out of breath.

If I got here when the fight is over, then you two must havestarted hours ago, Rowan joked.

Three to be exact, Cane jokingly replied, then said to Trey.You put up a fight, just not good enough.

Yea, well you should be glad twas not real. I would have hadyour head then, Trey said laughing.

Yea yah would have, Cane said sarcastically.I have something to tell you, I am sorry I did not tell you before,because I was afraid of how you might have reacted, Rowan said.

This time, all joking ceased as both turned to look at their friend.I am in love, he said calmly.Cane and Trey both looked at each other before busting out

laughing.Why were you afraid to tell us this, she is not ugly is she? Cane

said the latter with a bit of sarcasm still laughing.Nay, I think she is the most beautiful woman there is.Well, who is she? Trey asked trying not to laugh any more.

Rowan hesitated; he wasnt ready to tell them it was PrincessAveline.

Well, Trey and Cane said together.She is a noble, which wasnt really a lie Rowan thought to

himself.I mean her name, Trey said.I do not know, he lied. These were his best friends, how could

he lie like that.Come on, you are a horrible liar; you know that, Cane said.Promise you will not say anything to anybody.We have been best friends ever since we were little. We joined

the Militia because of each other, I am pretty sure we can keep thysecret, Cane said.

Yea, Trey agreed.Rowan sighed deeply before whispering, Her Highness Aveline.Both of them became serious then.The Princess, who is betrothed to Prince Brom of Saleria, who is

alsoabove thou in rank, and probably does not even love thou back,Trey said.


14/39

We kissed, Rowan said getting shocked looks from the two ofthem.

You kissed, how did you manage that? Cane asked.I asked her if we could court and she accepted with a kiss.When, Trey asked.

A month ago, when we were taking a stroll in her mothersgarden before she got the news she was to be betrothed.She will get you into a lot of trouble Rowan, Cane stated.Rowan didnt say anything, he knew that Cane was right, but he

was not going to give up.

3

Aveline sat on her couch while Brom sat next to her holding herhand. Why couldnt he just leave her alone she thought to herself?She caught him looking at her necklace and he looked away when he

noticed she caught him.Im not feeling well, maybe you should go before I get you ill,Aveline said getting up heading for the bathroom.

Yes, well. I need to get going anyway, Brom says leaving.Sighing, Aveline walks over to her bed and throws herself upon it

crying. At least Brom wasnt here to see it. She hated him with apassion, and with that same passion, she had a love for Rowan. Ohhow she would do anything just to be in his arms right now.

****************************************

Later that night, Aveline is awoken by someone knocking on herdoor. She stretches and makes her way to the door to find Margaret.

I have a message for you, she whispered as Aveline got out ofthe way so she could enter.

A message from whom at this hour?Who do you think, Margaret replied with a smile.Rowan?Yea.Excitedly Aveline took the note that Margaret handed out to her

and jumps onto the bed, inviting Margaret to sit with her. Once

Margaret sat down, Aveline read the note aloud, still continuing towhisper.

DearAveline,

It is my love for thou that keeps me up this night. I want to see thou inperson, so meet me in our place as soon as you get this.


15/39

Love,Rowan

The note was hastily written out, and she had troubledeciphering some of the words.

How do I look? Aveline asked smoothing down her hair.Like you just got out of bed, now go. You do not have muchtime before the servants wake and find you wandering about.

Aveline clasped her hand over her mouth to stifle her laughing.She nodded and made her way out the door with Margaret following togo back to her own chamber. She waited till Margaret was out of sightbefore going to the entrance of the secret room. The hallway was litwell by the two crescent moons outside, once she made it, she tappedon the wall and went inside. There was a dim light atop the stairs andonce she put her foot down on the first staircase, as if on cue, the doorshut close.

Walking up the steps she saw Rowan with his back turned to her.She stood there waiting for him to notice her presence and finally hedid. He turned around and gave her a half smile. Something was off.

What is wrong my sweet, thou dost not seem happy to see me?she asked.

I just do not like having to hide to be with you that is all.She smiled and walked over to him, arms held out.He took her in a strong embrace, starring into the deep depths of

those wondrous, treacherous green eyes until he got utterly lost inthem. The only thing that saved him was the even more so softluscious kiss that Aveline had placed on his lips and he on hers. When

they parted he got asked again.What is wrong, I know that is not why, even if it may be part of

it.Sighing he replied, We are heading off to war in a few days, your

father told us earlier today. I wanted to see you one final time before Ileft, but I also want to see you again.

When?They were still in each others embrace.This time in two days, the day before we have to leave.So soon, Aveline bit her lip.Rowan just nodded.

He was going to leave her and he might not come back. Shedidnt want him to go, so of course she would see him one last timebefore he left. Tears stung her eyes, and she caressed the scar on hischeek, and he flinched as if remembering something awful. Hegrabbed her hand and held it there before bringing it down.

What happened, you never told me?It I got it a few years back when I first began to serve. We

were in battle and Trey was hurt on the ground. This huge guy was


16/39

coming after him and Cane helped me fend him off. He slashed megood and that is how we three became friends. We both carried him tothe infirmary where he had made an excellent recovery. That was alsothe day that Travis had died.

Whos Travis, Aveline asked intrigued by this story.

My fourth friend who had died fending off the other soldiers whowere trying to get to us.Oh, she said and leaned up and kissed the scar trailing the kiss

all the way to his mouth where he kissed her back leaving tingles onher mouth.

They broke the kiss off and Rowan said, We should go, it will beday light soon.

***************************************

Brom reread his poem to Aveline; it was like she had put a love

spell over him. He knew better though, him being a sorcerer and all.Still, he had never felt this way about someone before. He sealed it inan envelope and walked to her bedchamber, the first few servants hadbarely aroused, so he didnt get much speculation. Knocking on thedoor, he got no reply. He then remembered that she said she didntfeel well, and it was early, so he slipped it under her door and left,smoothing his hair back on his way. If it wasnt for his lessons at Lias,he wouldnt be up this early either, but King John didnt allow magic inhis palace so he had to leave early to get to his mentors house ontime.

Aveline stretched and yawned when she awoke. Looking on the

floor, there was an envelope. She got up, her mouth still tingling, andpicked it up. She carefully opened it, so as to not tear it and inside wasa parchment that read:

Aveline with lips as red as roses,Skin as beautiful as the petals of a moon flower,

Whose kiss I yearn to taste,And love I will cherish forever.

The short but lovely poem made her think of none other thanRowan. Oh how she longed to see him, but she couldnt just go up to

him. Could she? She read it again and again, hoping that he wouldjust pop out of the page. His hand writing was much neater than onthe hastily scrawled note last night though. Margaret came in to doher chores and Aveline insisted that she hear the poem. WhenMargaret agreed she read it once more for the fifth time.

That is so sweet, crooned Margaret.I want to see him tonight but I cannot.Why not?


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She recapped all that was said between them leaving none butthe story out. Margaret giggled at the kissing parts.

I am excited for thou miss, now I have chores to do before I getinto trouble, Margaret said bowing, and then busied herself with herwork.

***************************************

Two days later, at the same time of their last meeting, Avelinequietly made her way to their secret room. It was dark with no candlelight and the two moons gone, but she still had no trouble locating theroom or the spot on the wall to allow her entrance. She knocked onthe spot once, and once more opened up to the spiral staircase that ledto the room dimly lit by candles. She had the poem clutched in her lefthand as she made her way up the stairs to find Brom waiting for her.She had read the poem over and over again to where she had every

last word memorized. She recited it one more time in her head:

Aveline with lips as red as roses,Skin as beautiful as the petals of a moon flower,

Whose kiss I yearn to taste,And love I will cherish forever.

Rowan smiled at her, she smiled back, and they met in anembrace that ended with a kiss.

I have missed you, Aveline said.And I you, Rowan replied.

I love the poem thou hast wrote me.What poem.She handed him the paper confused.I did not write this, but I know who did, Rowan said anger rising

in his voice.I do too, now Aveline said heartbroken knowing now she had

treasured something given to her by someone she hated most insteadof loved. I am sorry. How could he.

There is nothing to be sorry for, you thought I wrote it, and thatis fine. Although, I do think thy beauty is more beautiful thandescribed on this piece of paper.

Despite being heartbroken, Aveline blushed and hoped he didntsee.

Plus, I do not need a poem to express my love for you, he saiddropping the poem to the floor.

He began kissing her, his arms around her waist, hers around hisneck. It was a complete bliss that was magnified after they were lyingon the ground with their clothes off.


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4

Rowan had awoken before Aveline and he had his handscomfortably placed under his head, while she lay with her head on hischest, both still naked and intertwined. He had enjoyed what theyshared together last night, unfortunately it caused them to spend thenight and he just knew they were dead. He didnt bother waking herup though, for fear how she would react. He sighed, and the suddenmovement of his chest seemed to have awoken Aveline, for her eyelidsfluttered open and she stared at him for a moment with thosemesmerizing green eyes. He wished they could stay like this forever,not having to worry about who would see them together and what theywould do.

Aveline had the sweetest dream that she and Rowan had madelove to each other. She wanted to stay in that dream forever, butunfortunately it was time to wake up and her eyelids did so of theirown accord. Her head was upon something hard, certainly not herpillow, and her legs were wrapped around something. It took amoment for her to get her bearings, but when she did she realizedwhere she was and that her dream wasnt a dream at all. She blushedand turned a hundred shades of red.

She sat up and stared into the deep grey pools of Rowans eyes.He just stared back, and she had no idea what to say to him. She hadliterally given herself to this man when she was supposed to be giving

herself to another. Vile started to rise in her throat when she thoughtof Brom. He would never get what she had given to Rowan, she wouldrather die. How late was it? She thought to herself.

Rowan sat up with her and leaned to give her a kiss, but sheturned her head. She couldnt do this, she couldnt spend onemiraculous night with him and probably never see him again, and itwasnt fair.

I cannot do this, she said getting up to get dressed.She had just finished getting dressed and was on her way

downstairs when Rowan put on his pants following her. He didnt puton his shirt until he was near the bottom of the steps. John was on his

way to talk to his daughter to say her punishment was over, but whenthe wall to his left opened up and Aveline came out he looked at herconfused. When Rowan followed in behind her finishing putting on ashirt, his curiosity turned to rage. Aveline and Eros both froze whenthey saw John standing there.

They were terrified. John was furious his face turned red withanger. He wasnt stupid; he knew what went on in there. Aveline couldrot in her room for all he cared. As for Rowan, whom he thought was


19/39

his most trusted captain, had betrayed him and stolen his ungratefuldaughter.

AVELINE, YOU CAN STAY IN YOUR ROOM FOR ALL ETERNITY.GUARDS ARREST HIM! her father shouted.

FATHER NO, YOU CANNOT DO THIS! Aveline said with tears in

her eyes.YOU THINK I CANNOT, HOW DARE YOU SEDUCE A MAN THAT ISNOT YOUR BETROTHED. YOU THINK I AM STUPID, ROWAN PUTS ON HISSHIRT WHILE COMING DOWN THOSE STAIRS AND WHEN YOU BOTH SEEME YOUR TERRIFIED. IT IS ALL IN THY FACE, HE SAID WITH HIS VOICEDANGEROUSLY LOW.

Aveline and Rowan were trying to hold on to each otherunsuccessfully as guards were tearing their grips apart. Aveline wascrying hysterically calling Rowans name.TAKE HER TO HER ROOM AND KEEP HER IN THERE! demanded herfather.

Brom was hidden watching the whole exchange his anger risingas well.With a firm grip on her arms the two guards dragged her to her

room. Once there, they gave her a hard push that made her fall to herhands and knees. She got up as fast as she could but as soon as shegot to her door it closed on her. When she tried to open it the guardjust pushed her back and shut the door closed tight. She flung herselfonto her bed and began to sob deeply.

Within five minutes of deep sobs the door to her room wasslammed shut and Brom stormed in.

What do you think you are doing? Seducing a man that is not

your betrothed! You know if it was not for the fact that I love you andfor your father I would have you executed just like Rowan for treason!

Thou dost not know anything of love, spat Aveline.Oh, no, dost thou really want to know how unloving I can be to

my bride to be? In fact, I do not think anyone will want to marry youafter what you did. Whore!

With a quick snap of his fingers Aveline was starting to lose agrip on reality. Broms voice started to sound distant and the imagesaround her began to become unfocused. All of a sudden, too soon,everything went black.

****************************************

Aveline woke in a dark circular room with no furniture except fora single candelabrum in the back of the round room. There was a manstanding near a window and it was night. After a few seconds she gother grip on reality and realized it was Brom, and her wrists and ankleswere tied.

Thought you were the only one who knew about this secret


20/39

room did you not? I have watched you come in here a few times,sometimes with Rowan. Now that I know what went on up here, I amsure you will not mind giving me a little taste.

He turned around to face her, leaned down to kiss her, and shespat in his face.

Why you he slapped her hard on the face.Aveline cried out in pain, her ears were ringing, and her visionwent black for a moment. Brom growled very lowly in his throat andsaid, Its getting late, Ill finish with you tomorrow. Oh, and by theway. No one is going to save you from this room because your fatheralready knows you are in here and does not care if I lock you up inhere. He said you were a disgrace to him and does not care if you rotin here either.

New tears stung her eyes and she watched as Brom went downthe stairs, heard him snap his fingers and when he did, the ropesuntied her and disappeared and she heard the door open and close.

She rubbed her wrists were the rope had cut into them and ran downthe stairs trying to open the door. He had done something to it,because no matter how hard she pushed she couldnt open it. Shewent back up the stairs and looked out the window. To her horror, shestared out at the execution yard; and as if to mock her, there were rosebushes around the perimeter of the execution yard. Brom intended forher to watch as her beloved Rowan was murdered.

That was how Brom planned to punish her. She cringed as shefelt her heart shatter into tiny pieces. First she was uncertain if Rowanwould return from war alive, now she was to watch his execution and itwas her fault. She never should have allowed those feelings for him

surface. Never should have talked to him, never should have stayedwhen her father had summoned her, never should have accepted witha kiss when he had asked her first.

If it wasnt for her, he would have at least had the honor ofgetting killed by enemy hands instead of his own king. It was her fault,all her fault. If shed never let her feelings for him surface, she mightnot have had a real problem with her marriage to Brom. No she wouldstill hate him to the bone for she was the one who saw Brom for whathe really was, not her father; then again royalty never really did marryfor love but power and land. She reached for her necklace to hopefullyget its small comfort, but when her hand reached the place where it

should have been, it was gone. She was so upset about everythingthat had taken place she hadnt even realized her most prizedpossession was gone; she now felt even more miserable, somethingshe thought was utterly impossible.

She looked up at the full twin moons, Ura and Kira, in sorrow.They were the daughters of Tira, the goddess of night. Ura was eviland bitter, while Kira was kind and caring. She looked towards Kira,praying for help. She knew that the she wouldnt be able to help


21/39

though for Eros was to be executed in the morning and Rano, the sungod, was neutral and didnt take sides.

She silently said a prayer to him anyways, hoping he wouldanswer. Her eyes and throat felt extremely raw from all the sobbingshe had done and even though she wanted to cry even more, no tears

would come. Her lids were becoming very heavy and from the positionof the moons she could tell it was in the middle of the night.Rowan tried desperately to free himself of the guards, but

unfortunately he did his job too well as Captain of Elourn Militia. Notonly did the King want trained soldiers, but he wanted his guardstrained well as well. So, he entrusted him with the job. They haddragged him to a cell in the dungeon of the castle with one otheroccupant. Elourn had several prisons throughout, but if you reallyupset the King you were brought here to be executed the next day.

He wished he hadnt been stupid enough to even consider theprincess, but she considered him as well. It was a love that was meant

to be. Then he had to ruin it by seducing her. He should have realizedthat something like this was too good to last.Is thou not the commander of Elourn? Asked the manYea, Rowan said with a sigh.Then what are you doing in here for? Are you not supposed to

be attacking some unsuspecting country or something, claiming moreland for Elourn?

I am in here for my reasons only, and you are that spy forCrayton we captured a few days ago is thou not? Looks like my menhave grown tired of questioning you.

If you are in here to be punished, then they would not be your

men now would they?Rowan thought about it for a minute. He had lost everything: his

love, his position, and the Kings trust. You want to know why I am inhere. Since we are both going to die tomorrow any way I see no harmin telling you, I fell in love.

The King put you in here because you fell in love? The manstarted laughing hysterically. Who, in all the gods, names, did youfall in love with to be put in here?

Rowan with a grim look on his face replied, The princess.This just made the man laugh even more, And how exactly did

you get caught with this temptation?

Rowan hesitated, how would come around to say it. Finally hehad his answer, I seduced her, and somehow His Majesty was able tocome up with the notion

Looks to me like she set you up.Rowan shook his head, Nope, I was why we got caught. I

followed after her, still getting dressed when he saw us.The man chuckled, and you say somehow came up with the

notion. You nobles are idiots, and lay down on the floor closing his


22/39

eyes. Rowan was filled high with so much grief; he was able to agreewith the insult. He did feel like an idiot and he couldnt sleep.

5

Brom was extremely angry with Aveline. He didnt even know ifhe wanted to marry her still or not. She was ruined, tainted. He might just go home and declare war. No, that would be impossible if hewanted that stone, but he did have the stone; it was in his pocket.

He was going to have to marry her just so he could have moreland to rule, but that wouldnt really be an inconvenience. He was stillmad, but if that whore could sleep with a lowly knight, then surely hecould get something out of her tomorrow. He sure was going to try.Deciding to talk to the king about his arrangements of still marryingher, he headed towards his study. Once he got there, he hesitated

before knocking.Come in, came the obviously distressed voice of King John.John was still highly upset about the earlier situation. When the

door opened and Brom came in, he prepared for the worst. Surely hewould go home and claim war.

Sire, if you do not mind I would still like to marry yourdaughter.

Clearly taken aback by this comment John replied, Surly you donot want her now.

Oh, but I do. Yea I am upset with her actions, but I will tend tothe matter myself.

He nodded, Fine, take her if you still want her. But remember,we do not have divorces here like your country. Once tis done, tisdone, but then again since she will be moving back to Arban with you,then I guess you could have a divorce. I want nothing more to do withher, so do with her as you see fit.

Yes your highness. Also, if you do not mind could our weddingtake place tomorrow as well as the execution?

I dont bloody care, you can have it today.Tomorrow would suffice, he said backing out of the room.He started towards his bedchamber that would no longer be his.

He would be moving back home to Arban, like the King said, with his

beloved bride Aveline. He couldnt believe that he had fallen in lovewith this wench. Well, she certainly was going to live up to that titlewith him. Hed make sure of it.

****************************************

Rowan woke up from a horrible nightmare screaming andgasping for breath. He dreamed that he was at the execution site, but


23/39

he wasnt the one at the chopping block. He was watching it, waitingfor the person who was sentenced to death to come out and take hisplace.

To his utter shock and horror, the prisoner to be executed wasAveline herself. She was dressed in the most hideous rags not even the

poorest peasant would wear, and her hair was in shambles. Theystrapped her into the device and the executioner pulled the lever thatsent the blade sliding down to the neck below. Before the bladereached her, however, she looked up at him and smiled and that waswhen he woke up.

He noticed that the cell that held the assassin was empty and hiscell door opened. Two of his former lieutenants, Travis and Cane, camein with sad looks on their face. They shook their heads when they sawhim and grabbed him by the arms.

Why did you have to fall for her? Out of all the other womenyou could have had you had to choose Princess Aveline who is

engagedto Prince Brom, Travis said emphasizing the word engaged.Rowan sighed, I know it was stupid, but I love her and this is notgoing to change my mind. I would crawl to the ends of the earth forher and even if I am dead, I will still watch over my beloved Lorana.

There was a long sad silence as the three friends made their wayto the execution yard. Finally Travis spoke when they reached the doorthat led outside, I wish for your sake that her highness does not haveto watch. If she really loves you and you her, then I could not imaginethe pain she must be feeling.

Rowan nodded as Cane and Travis grabbed his arms and draggedhim out into the execution yard thats open for everyone to get a free

show of the execution. His gaze first fell onto the crudely madechopping block and then to the crowd, pleased he didnt see Avelinebut glowered when he saw Brom. He also noticed that half of the mainarmy was there to witness his execution. They strapped him into thedevice so the blade could make a neat cut down the middle of hisneck.

She will always be mine no matter what you do to us! I loveher, and there is nothing you can do about it! Rowan exclaimed loudly.

The executioner raised the ax and as the blade came hurtlingdown to his neck he closed his eyes waiting for the severing.

Aveline woke up the next morning hearing a low murmuring

sound and Brom screaming out his love for her. She got up and lookedout the window. There was a huge crowd, most of it made up by halfof the army, surrounding Rowan. He was already strapped in, theexecutioner bringing the blade down. She could hear everything, Brommust have magnified the sound with his magic just to make sure shewas watching or at least hearing.

She closed her now teary eyes as the blade was inches from hisneck, and when she should have heard metal cutting bone; she heard


24/39

nothing. She opened her eyes and it looked like she was just staringinto a painting on the wall. Nothing moved, birds were even frozen inmid flight. All of a sudden a tall tan woman stepped out of the frozencrowd that had straight light brown hair and that was all she could see.

She watched as the woman walked up to Rowan and began to

unstrap him. The second her hand touched Rowans flesh, he began tomove. She grabbed his shoulder, closed her eyes and disappeared.

6

Within the next minute or so, Aveline was no longer alone in herconfinement. The woman and Rowan appeared beside her. With tearsin her eyes, she and Rowan met in a strong embrace that ended with apassionate kiss leaving them both breathless and in tears. They thenremembered they weren't alone and they both blushed as they turnedto see Rowan's rescuer.

"Ah, young love. Now we do not have much time left. Grab holdof my hands and I will answer every one of your questions."

Aveline hesitated but did what she asked. The weirdestsensation overtook her, she felt like her body was being squeezed butit was bearable and she couldn't see a thing. When sight came backshe was in the forest. the leaves on the trees were yellow, orange, andred; marking the beginning of fall. Light filtered through the treesgiving everything a golden orange glow. It was beautiful andbreathtaking and she was thankful to be out of that room.

"We do not have much time left," the woman repeated again.

"Not much time left for what?" Aveline asked her curiositygrowing."How much do you know of that stone you wear?" she asked."Can we at least get your name first woman?" Rowan asked.

"And thank you for saving us." He hated the fact he got saved by awoman, but at least he could be with his Aveline again.

"My apologies, my name is Lia. Brom's mentor in magic..." shedidn't get to finish.

Aveline was really mad, "Go back to Saleria and bring Brom withyou. We really appreciate everything you have done, but it was yourpupil that nearly killed the both of us."

"I understand how you must feel. I must admit, that some of itwas my fault and...""Thy fault?" Rowan asked also getting mad."Please, let me explain. We will get through this much faster that

way. Yes, some of it is my fault because I mentioned the jewels ofKirona in our lessons and he has become power hungry. When hefound out you were a guardian, he started to want you even more andbecame more hostile towards you and..."


25/39

"Is that not a children's tale though, to trick the children intogoing to sleep at night?" asked Aveline.

Lia was getting really impatient about all the interruptions, "No, itis very much real. They are powerful stones that can turn the user intoa god himself. A power that can either destroy the world or save it. If

Brom gets his hands on all the pieces, there is no knowing what wouldhappen."Rowan was becoming extremely confused by all this. It was just

a little too much to take in, "Prove it, this all sounds...""I know how it sounds," Lia said stopping him in mid-sentence.

"Tell me how Aveline was not effected by the time spell. Everyone elsewas frozen in time except for her. You want to know why, 'tis becauseshe is effected by the stone's powers. Not only can they turn you intoa god, but they can make you invincible."

Brom was extremely shocked when Rowan just disappeared fromthe chopping block, and even more so when Aveline wasn't in that

hidden room. He was pacing his room when a notion came to him. Hedecided he was going to scry and see what they were up to. It was asimple procedure, he ordered a servant to fill up a large bowl withwater, then he put in a couple drops of oil and his own blood, and thenhe thought of her. They were in the forest talking. This wasn't thestrongest way of scrying, but it was the safest, so he couldn't make outwhat they were saying.

A smirk reached his lips when he noticed Lia. She was going topay for her betrayal. It's not like he actually needed her teachings. Hehad went behind her back to learn more about the dark forbiddenmagic, now he was an expert. He pulled out the stone and looked at it.

Its many facets glimmering in the candle light. He placed it around hisneck and poured out the contents of the bowl.

'I will have you soon enough my darling Aveline,' he thought tohimself.

He went to go assist in the search for the both of them that KingJohn had ordered. He knew they wouldn't find them, and he could getto them easily with a teleportation spell, but he was going to wait untilhe could get Aveline alone.

"I am going to have both of their heads!" King John shouted whenBrom entered his study.

"Sire, mind if I help in the search?" Brom asked.

"Go ahead, but you might not end up with a bride. I swear I amgoing to kill her."

'Not if I get my way,' he smiled in his head. He left and went tojoin in the search and he was going to do his best to lead it away fromthem so he could get them first instead

7


26/39

Invincible? A god? I know magic exists, I know fey exist, butthat seems to good to be true, Rowan implied.

I agree, this is just too much to take in, Aveline said grabbinghold of Rowans hand.

I know, just listen. No one worshipped Kirona, all were afraid ofher. Except three heroes, when they vanquished the mighty Kirona, allher power was left in her eyes. You will learn in the many lessons I willgive you that magic needs a power source. Ruby is one of them, eachgod has his source of power laden with jewels that are compatible withhim or her. Every guardian is compatible with the ruby eyes,unfortunately so is Brom, replied Lia.

Many lessons? inquired Aveline.Yes, you will have to learn to control that power residing within

you now. Otherwise it will eventually take over your heart and soulcorrupting you to its will.

Aveline visibly shuddered but said nothing.Now we will be traveling to Forlaine to retrieve the amuletbefore Brom does. With it he will be able to amplify the power withinthe stone and take this one. You can still cast spells away from thestone, but it will drain you even faster. You will have to eat doublewhat thy normally would if thy plans on staying alive.

Aveline nodded in compliance with the latter but then somethinghit her, Forlaine, but is that not where my fathers soldiers arewarring?

Yes tis. But we shant have to go so close to the battle. Now weneed to get a move on or we will not be able to get there in time. But

firstShe disappeared only to reappear with two sharp swords in

sheath and belt, Thy will need these. Rowan I suspect thy will want toteach her to use a sword?

Rowan blanched at this, he never wanted to see his Avelinebehind the blade of a sword ever. He would rather die a thousanddeaths than her have to carry the burden of a sword. Now he wasasked to teach her? Then he thought about them getting separatedand her not knowing how to use a sword, it would be best if he did. Henodded and the both grabbed one and strapped it to their waist, himshowing Aveline how to do it.

Good, now for your first lesson I will teach you then tomorrowRowan. Here is a simple spell for you to use. Inferno, she said softlywhile opening her hand where a tiny flame came to life.

Aveline held out her fist, opened her palm like Lia, said,Inferno, but nothing happened. She tried again and again and againbut nothing.

Hmm, maybe we should meditate. That usually gets the magicflowing. Sit cross legged, Lia did so waiting for Aveline to comply.


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When she did Lia said, Now close your eyes and think of auras.How exactly do I do that?Lia sighed, Think of your stone. What holds you to it, why did

you not leave and forget it, what connects you to it?My mother.

Do not tell me, think it.Aveline did and she felt her mother near. She thought about allthose times she could remember about her, like when they playedgames together. She felt a warmth growing in her heart making herhappy and sad all at the same time. Then her memories turned to thathorrible day, the day she received the stone. She had been given it byher mother before she took those last breaths. Tears streamed downher face and she opened her eyes. Lia was looking at her.

Do not think about how you got the stone, that part is alwaystragic. We are not to pass it on until we are a few moments fromdeath, so do not think about that part. Think about the happy times,

the times before. Now meditate until I say so. This will be part of theexercise everyday until you can create a simple flame. Then so evenmore till you master the more complicated spells.

Aveline did, she thought about nothing else but her mother. Themore she thought about her, the more she wanted to cry, but she wasalso happy with that warmth in her heart. Pretty soon; however, herthoughts kept turning to other things and she had to force herself tothink more about her mother. After what seemed like hours, she finallyfelt Lia tap her shoulder. When she went to stand up, she stretched forher muscles had grown stiff.

Now try that spell again, Lia said.

Rowan was getting antsy, he felt that if they stayed in the samespot too long, they would get caught. He watched Aveline try the spellagain five times failing before Lia decided to call it quits.

You did good on your first day. Do not get discouraged though,it is harder for those who were not born with the gift of magic, Liasaid.

She was thoroughly surprised at how long Aveline had stayedstill, she usually had to smack Brom or any other apprentice upside thehead to get them to stop fidgeting, but not her. Aveline nodded at Liaand went to Rowan. She grabbed his hand and squeezed. She neededsome comfort after all that has happened. They started walking in

silence on their way to the docks with Lia in the lead.Oh, one more thing, Lia stated then she faced Aveline closing

her eyes. Aveline felt her breasts shrink, her hair became short andblackened. Lia opened her eyes and continued, Now with icy blueeyes, flat chest, and short black hair, no one will suspect you as theprincess. Hopefully we will not run into any trouble.

She looked over to Rowan who was smiling and whispered in herear, You are still beautiful, but I liked you a lot better the other way.


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She smiled to him then asked Lia, How come that magiceffected me?

Because, there are just as many helpful spells as there arehurtful. With only half the spell, you are only protected from thehurtful.

Why do we not teleport to Forlaine instead of walking? inquiredAveline.Because teleporting only takes you so far, a couple miles

maybe, and while we could teleport to the docks you need lessons andlessons take time.

Aveline sighed but said nothing more.

****************************************

Kiron did nothing more than scry on the small party later thatnight when the search had failed much to his doing. What he didnt

expect though was the ambush the satyrs organized against the searchparty. Luckily, though, they were quick to counter strike and won.Once he got his hands on the stones and the amulet and become agod, he would see to it that no vermin such as them would cease toexist.

He stifled back a yawn and decided that he would find a betterway of scrying tomorrow so he could actually hear what was going on.He called for some servants who undressed him and then donned himin his night apparel. He didnt find rest until the late hours of the nighthowever, for he kept thinking of Aveline.

8Aveline sat by the roaring fire with Rowan enjoying its warmth.

She was hugging on to his arm with her head on his shoulder, theirfingers entwined.

"I have always loved nights such as this," Rowan stated lookingat the sky. "The stars shine so brightly and are beautiful, but they arenot compared to you my love."

She smiled, "And nothing can compare to thy handsomenesseither."

She looked up to his face, and with her free hand, reached totouch his scar smiling. He quickly reached and covered his giant handover her much more smaller one holding it to the scar. He closed hiseyes, remembering how he had gotten it, sighed, and kissed her. Itwas a very passionate kiss that made each other grow with desirescorching their very being. He picked her up, carried her into thedense trees of the forest that surrounded the clearing they made theircamp in, and laid her down all the while still kissing her.


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He broke off the kiss, stared down at her face and smiled. Theyquickly shed their clothing and let their bodies express the love theyhad for each other until both were spent and they lay next to eachother in the aftermath of their loving, remembering that passionatebliss.

"I love thou," stated Aveline breathing hard."And I love thou too," Rowan replied breathing hard as well.He twisted his finger around a short lock of black hair before

kissing her and loving her yet again. After this second bliss, theydonned their clothing and went back to camp. They found that Lia hadreturned with more firewood and laid down in their joined bedrolls andwent into a dreamless sleep. When they awoke, Lia had already madebreakfast which tasted delicious.

"Before we continue on our journey, I believe you owe Aveline alesson," Lia remarked.

Rowan sighed, drew a large circle in the ground with a stick, and

stepped in the center after putting his sword on. Aveline put hers on aswell, and stepped into the circle when Rowan motioned for her to. Heshowed her a few cuts and parries and after she had performed eachone correctly, with several tries, he nodded his approval with a smile.

"Now, the training begins," he stated."I thought that was training," Aveline replied."Nay that was a short introductory. Sword training takes years to

master and even longer for someone who wishes to be a knight.Unfortunately, we do not have that much time so you only get thebasics which will still take a while. Now, I want you to attack me andI'll attack you. I want you to block me as best as you can and the first

person to step out of the circle loses.""What if I hurt you though?" Aveline asked shocked."You will not, in fact you should be worrying if I hurt you. But we

will not use our swords, we will use sticks."Aveline sighed with relief, at least he wasn't going to make them

use swords in this fight."However, we will use swords eventually, now I have my stick,"

he indicated the one he used to draw the circle with and continued."Now go find yours. Make it a decent one too."

She went off into the woods and found a nice thick stick that wasabout as long as her sword. She swung it against a tree to see if it

would break and it didn't so she decided to use it. She went back tothe circle and held it like he taught her to with the sword.

"Feet wider apart."She complied and waited for him to tell her when to start, until

before she knew it she was whacked in the side and could feel a weltstarting to rise.

"Ouch.""Focus, that blow could have been fatal if it went deep enough.


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Rule one never let your enemy get the first move for it could be yourlast."

He went for another hit and she failed at parrying. He gave heranother welt on her other side. She went for a hit this time, but heblocked easily.

"Rule two, do not look at where you are going to hit, it can beblocked easily that way. Never take your eyes off of your opponents.While I am on the subject of eyes, rule three the sword can lie but theeyes do not."

He went to attack her left side again, but she noticed his movewas wrong. She found an opening and went for it. He quickly blockedit, smiling, and in the same instant hit her right shoulder.

"What did I just tell you."They continued like this for an hour. She, never getting a chance

to hit him; her, getting covered in welts and bruises. He had pushedher out of the circle a hundred times. Finally she decided to give up

and went to walk away, earning her a whack on the butt. She yelpedand turned around."Rule four, never turn thy back to thine enemy," he said

laughing."Oh, now thou is just playing around," she said getting angry.He laughed even more and said sarcastically, "And, m'lady what

makes you think that?"Lia was finding this very amusing. She was able to keep from

laughing though, until he whacked her in the but. Now they weregoing at it like mere children.

"Why you..." Aveline began frustrated.

That just made Rowan laugh even more and he seemed to beunfocused. Aveline took her chance, ran over to him, and knocked himto the ground. They fell together and then both burst out laughing.

"Rule five,...ne...never laugh at thine enemy," she said throughbits of laughter.

"Rule six," Rowan said rolling over so that he was on top of herand continued. "Never think it is over just because you knocked himdown."

They laughed some more and looked into each others eyessmiling.

"Rule seven..."Aveline began letting Rowan finish.

"Embrace thy lover," he finished and they kissed.Lia cleared her throat and they immediately stood up

embarrassed. "Let me heal you Aveline, then we must be on our way."They both got up and nodded, blushing. Lia had been so quiet

that they had completely forgotten that she was there.

****************************************


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Brom had finally aroused from his deep, dreamless sleep a lotlater than what he usually did. He felt groggy and forced himself out ofbed. He called for servants to dress him and he made his way to theKings study. Upon arriving her heard the King shouting through theclosed door.

I do not care how long it takes, I want the search party lookingeverywhere for my daughter and thatthatanimal back here forproper punishment! I do not want to see your faces until theirs are twoof them! King John shouted.

King John, even though still angry with his daughter, becameworried about her. She was still his daughter and no matter what shedid, he would always love her. He didnt know what he would do if helost her as well as her mother. He would be alone in the world withnothing else to live for.

Yes your highness, stammered the leader of the search party,Brom recognized his voice.

The party leader left the room looking frightened and Bromproceeded to knock on the door.When the party leader left, he brought his thoughts back to his

daughter. He loved his daughter deeply and let a few tears escape hiswrinkled green eyes. He composed himself again, however, whenthere was a knock at the door.

Come in, came the tart reply.Your highness, perhaps if you give me permission to use magic I

could locate you daughter and my beloved bride?John let out a sigh, he despised magic but he might make an

exception for it if it found his daughter. He nodded his approval and

Brom left smiling. He now knew exactly how he was going to get herback. He was going to turn his full sized mirror into a scrying portal. Itwould take a lot of magic power though, but that shouldnt be aproblem with Avelines stone in his possession. It would only workonce, however, because he didnt have the mirror on the other side. Itwouldnt be a problem to teleport regularly back to his bedchamberthough. He couldnt transport regularly there though, because he hadno idea the exact place she was in the forest and he could end up onehundred miles away from her. He would wait until night to put it inaction.

*************************************

Finally nightfall descended and Aveline was exhausted and sore.They set up camp to rest for the night and she was getting ready tosnuggle up to Rowan when Lia sat a candle down in front of her.

What is this for, is there not plenty of light from the fire? askedAveline confused.

Lia sat down in front of her with the candle between them and


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said, Meditate.ButMeditate.Aveline sighed and thought of her mother. She felt the warmth

and all to soon she was brought out of it by Lia.

Now, light the candle like this, Lia waved her hand in front ofthe candle and it was lit. She waved it a second time and it was unlit.Aveline looked at Lia, then the candle, waved her hand in front of

it, and nothing happened.Think inferno, not out loud.She did and still nothing happened.Keep doing it until you get it.She did for a couple hours or at least it seemed that way and

nothing happened. Not even a spark. She was getting tired and whenher eyelids slipped closed she was smacked upside the head by Lia.

Hey

I do not care if you are the princess of Elourn, I expect you tonot fall asleep during a lesson. Now concentrate.Aveline was getting very agitated and bored. She did it again

and again and again until finally she screamed inferno in her headangrily, and a large flame shot up from the candle into the air makingAveline jump back. It didnt last very long for Lia calmed it down untilit was a normal sized flame for a candle and put it out.

That is enough for the night, get some rest, Lia laid down andtried to go to sleep.

Aveline was exhausted and as soon as she laid down andsnuggled against Rowan, who was already asleep, fell asleep soon

after. Brom was almost finished with turning the mirror into a portal.All he had to do now was say the incantation. He said the incantationstarting at a whisper that turned into a loud shout ending withAvelines name. With the incantation complete, the mirrors imagestarted warping until it shown Aveline sleeping next Rowan. Themirrors image started moving like water and he stepped through.

He stared down at Aveline with a smirk on his face. He kneltdown, grabbed her arm causing her to open her eyes and her mouth,but before she could say or do anything he had already transportedthem to his room.

Rowan wake Aveline started but Brom interrupted her.

Obviously Rowan cannot do anything seeing as he is not heremy dear.

Aveline was lying on the ground and frantically looked aroundtrying to figure out what had happened. She was terrified. What didyou do? Aveline asked trying to keep her voice under control andfailing.

You are safe and sound now my dear, it does not matter how Irescued you but I did. But if you must know, magic. He held the


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stone out in front of her. My you look different, how about this? Ah,that is better.

She was able to see her reflection in the mirror and herappearance was changed back to normal. She stood up and started toadvance on him, but she was soon frozen in place. She couldnt even

blink an eye. Instead, he advanced on her with a murderous look in hiseyes. He slapped her across the face, hard. The pain brought tears toher eyes and she wanted to bring her hand to her face to rub the painaway, but she couldnt move.

What did you think you were doing? You had your father and Iworried and how could you be with that lowlife? Especially before ourwedding night? He made it to where she could answer him and whenshe didnt he continued. Answer me!

If anyone is the lowlife it is you, and she didnt get to finish,because what she had already said earned her another hard slap.

I am positive you do not want to finish that statement, he said

dangerously low.She closed her eyes, trying to mentally push the pain away andto collect her thoughts so she wouldnt get slapped again. Finally shesaid, I love him and I do not care what you and Father have to say,she whispered.

She got slapped again and thought it best to not say anything hedidnt want to hear. She was not going to get slapped again.

Come on, I am taking you to your father.He allowed her mobility and offered her his elbow. He was going

to do this in a civilized manner. Aveline grudgingly took his elbow andthey made their way to her fathers study. Brom knocked on the door

and after receiving permission to enter they did so. The momentJohns eyes landed on his beloved daughter, he walked over to her andhugged her.

You are in so much trouble young lady! John angrily said afterhe released her. But I will leave the punishment up to your betrothed.

Brom smiled to himself knowing she would pay for it every dayfor the rest of her life. He was taken with her, yes, but that did notexcuse her from obeying him. He was to be her husband and King andboth titles required her full obedience that he will have. Yourhighness, I will think of an appropriate punishment later. As for now Ibelieve we should retire to our bedchambers since the wedding is

tomorrow.Aveline blanched at this. How was she supposed to get out of

this. Marriage? Tomorrow? She was upset, but managed not to showit. Brom quickly and quietly said an incantation to control what cameout of King Johns mouth.

Yes, I suppose you are right. I hope you do not mind, but Iwould like for your coronation as King of both countries to be tomorrowas well. You see, I am getting to old and unfit to run as King.


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Your highness, I would be an honor, Brom said smiling with abow.

Aveline blanched once more as she was led away with Brom toher bedchamber.

9

Not only did Brom order guards to make sure she didnt get outof her room, but he had put a spell on her windows and doors to makethem sealed shut unless someone opened them from the outside,except the bath chamber and wardrobe so she could change andbathe. Tomorrow she would be his wife and he would be King, makinghim ruler of Elourn only. He couldnt be King of Saleria yet, for hisfather hadnt given him word. Or did he? Aveline couldnt be sure, allshe knew was that now she was a prisoner of Brom and soon his wife.

She shuddered at the thought.She threw herself on the bed and cried herself into a dream that

turned into a nightmare. She was standing in a clearing when Rowanstepped in front of her. They embraced each other. The embraceended with a passionate kiss and Rowan backed away taking her in.He was smiling and his happy gray eyes mesmerized her. Suddenlythey went from happy to painful and frightened, she looked at hismouth, and he was no longer smiling but contorted in pain. Shewondered why, and followed his gaze downward. There sticking out ofhis chest where his heart should be was a bloody sword.

She jumped back in horror screaming. Rowan, who no longer

had Aveline as a support, staggered backwards, gagged up blood, andfell to the ground. Blood stained the ground and made a lake aroundRowan and there, standing behind his fallen body smiling triumphantly,was Brom.

Come my love, I saved you and my babes from that tyrant, nowlets return to the palace.

Aveline looked down and saw her belly, that was normal sizedbefore, swelled out really big. How could she be pregnant? Were theyhis? A white hot rage wavered through her because of the loss of herbeloved Rowan and she wanted to kill Brom. Brom held his hand outtoward her, and she went to look at Rowan. He was gone, no blood, nobody, it was as if he ceased to exist, the only thing remaining was hismemory.

She screamed out in grief, mourning over her lost love. She fellon her knees, her large pregnant belly getting in the way, crying andscreaming. She looked up to scream something at Brom, but he wasgone too. This made her cry out even more, mainly because shecouldnt express how she felt towards him, loathing. She couldnt


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express her loathing in harsh words. She didnt think she wouldvebeen able to in the first place, her loathing so deep and strong. Sherealized not even killing him could express the loathing she had forhim.

She went to squeeze her belly, going to draw comfort from her

babes who she knew would love her, but it was gone. She fell on herside, curled up in a ball, and wept. Slowly her world turned to darknessand images of her mother, father, and Rowan all dead, were presentedbefore her. Her grieving grew and she felt like she would never behappy again. She was sobbing even harder now and continued to stopuntil all images ceased. She started screaming even louder now,because laying there in the utter darkness, her sobbing and screamsbeing echoed back to her, made her feel as if there was no one else,no other person in that small heartless world other than her.

Then she heard a whisper, Wake up.The whisper grew more urgent and louder until finally she sprung

upright on her bed. Tears were streaming down her face, and she wassurrounded her hand maidens and a guard. She realized that she musthave been screaming outside her nightmare as well, and felt bad fordisturbing their rest.

Are you all right mlady? asked Margaret.She nodded, and one of the servants handed her some water.

She took it and drained it. Another one started washing the tears fromher face, but it did no good sense she busted into tears againinvoluntarily. You may leave, I am sorry to have disturbed you.

Yes mlady, they all said in unison and backed out of thedoorway with the guard.

Margaret stayed for a moment longer after the other maids hadgone to make sure her lady and friend was all right. She got up toleave when she felt arms being thrown around her neck. She sat backdown and comforted her.

Mlady, what would the other maids and Brom think if they sawus like this.

I do not care what they think and the maids shant thinkanything of it. They are to mind their business and not get into myaffairs, except you of course my dearest Margaret. You are the onlyfriend I have here, and I shant lose you. Aveline told her about t

jewels of kirona

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