CH 2: THE ELVEN PRINCESS

As Kestra awoke to the knock at her door, she realized today was no ordinary day. She watched as a guard entered her room. Stifling her smile, she pulled the covers back over her head. Grabbing a spare pillow, she hid it beside her. She placed a hand over her mouth when she heard him grumbling slightly. With any other, she wouldn't dare. To her friend, she couldn't help it. 

"Rise and shine, you sleepy-head." He says as he drew closer. 

She heard him stop beside the bed, the rustling of his clothes hitting her ears. She waited for the right moment to strike. Before she could react, she felt the pillow she was lying on get pulled out from under her. With a grunt, she heard laughter from beside her. She pulled the covers down to see his face. 

The young elf was only a few years older than herself. He stood 5'9 with broad shoulders. Golden catlike eyes gleamed with mischief. His short brown hair was brushed, yet messy, with sideburns reaching just past the ear. He offered a gloved hand to her. 

"I think I won this round. What do you think?" He asks with a grin. 

Kestra took the gloved hand as she examined it. She saw the Royal Guard symbol and smiled. 

"Sure. If you call the cheap shot a win." She replies. She quickly changed the subject before he could answer. "I see my father finally accepted my request for you to join the guard." 

"Yes, he has. We can talk about it later. Right now, you should get ready for the day. I'll be in the sitting area." 

Kestra chuckles as she watched him open the window to her landing before leaving. He knew her well. The fresh air danced around as a slight breeze brought the trees outside to life. She walked over to her closet and browsed through her gowns. She picked out a light blue one with short sleeves. Turning to the bathroom, she went to change. 

Stepping back out, she made her way to the vanity. Brushing the knots in her hair, she let her thoughts wander. Is the war finally over? Taking a ribbon, she tied her black hair back out of her face. She heard shuffling to her right and chuckled softly. 

"So, what is it you wanted to tell me?" She spoke to the other. Just as she was fastening a light gold chain around her neck, she caught sight of him entering. She never cared for heavy jewelry or gowns. There were times it was required, but she avoided it when she could. 

"I wanted to tell you that there have been talks of negotiations." He declares as he knelt by her side. He put a hand gently over hers before continuing. "I believe those talks. But the question is, would you believe it?" 

"You know, I do. Your instincts haven't failed yet. Why would they now?" Kestra's reply was gentle, slightly squeezing his hand. 

"About what that means. You haven't changed your mind, have you? I mean, it lasted longer than either of us wanted and…" 

Kestra placed her finger on his lips, silencing him. "Scyfire, do you doubt me that much? Did you honestly think I would?" 

"I just wanted to be sure. Time can change things. You know that as well as anyone." Scyfire continued to whisper. 

Kestra shook her head as she sighed. Placing her hand on his cheek, she continued. "I said yes before, and I will say yes again if it means I can marry you." 

"You once again made me the happiest man in Melderan." Scyfire replied. His eyes glinted playfully as he took his right hand and rustled her hair. 

"Hey, I just did that. Thank you very much." Kestra retorts agitatedly, as she glared at him. 

Startled, Scyfire quickly withdrew his hand. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I was just…" He stammers. 

Kestra tried to continue to glare but quickly failed, falling into a fit of laughter. "You're too easy to scare." 

"Oh yeah," Scyfire smiles, reaching for her again. "I guess I will just have to return the favor." 

Kestra, sensing the change, quickly pinned him to the ground. "Too slow." Smiling at him, she climbed off and sat down next to him. 

Scyfire smiled back, reaching for her once again. Kestra didn't refuse when Scyfire cupped her chin in his hand, while the other brushed over her birthmark. A mark that started at the nape of her neck and ended by her left shoulder. They had a special bond between them that nothing could break, not even death. Ever so gently, Scyfire pressed his lips to hers. Kestra was in love, and everyone knew it, but she didn't care what they thought. 

"Before I forget, your parents have asked to speak with you in the throne room," Scyfire whispers, brushing her cheek with his thumb. Kestra rose and slowly started towards the door as he followed. 

"Do you know what it's about?" Kestra asks. Interest and concern in her voice. 

"Beyond me. But it may not be a good idea to leave your parents waiting this time." Scyfire replied with a slightly joking tone in his voice. He kissed her one last time before leaving. 

The castle resided in the land's heart of Kneontide. Beneath the grey exterior, the inside revealed a stunning golden flooring. Entoen, a small town, was situated to the south, while the Eldar forest was to the east. The river of Sunole to the northeast. The guards took their positions at the front, guarding and protecting the large wooden drawbridge, which could accommodate a full-grown dragon with no difficulties. 

Kestra started down the stone corridor to the familiar room. She spotted two elves, both members of the Guard, standing in front of the firm, wooden doors. Dressed in red garments, they held a sword and shield featuring the Golden Dragon and crossed swords. They opened the doors for her, and she entered the room. She saw the coat-of-arms that had the same design as the shields of the Guard behind the thrones. To her left, she saw windows that looked out over Melderan. To the right, she saw a man that has made her shudder since he escaped capture in the war. Drave. Behind him, she spied two soldiers. 

"I hope you slept well, Princess." Drave spoke in his low voice, bowing slightly. He looked like an elf, but Kestra felt he was something else, something evil. He had short dirty brown hair and eyes that were such a dark brown, they were almost black. His skin was a light tan color. Different, but not rare. 

"Yes, captain, I did." Kestra replies as nicely as she could. As she continued forward, she could feel those eyes following her. She restrained a shudder from running down her back. Her father trusted the man. The least she could do was not cause a scene. As she approached the steps, she saw her parents. 

"Kestra, we have good news." Queen Celia stated. Kestra's mother was one of the fairest, kindest Elves in all of Melderan. She stood 5'6. Her long blond hair, which goes little more than halfway down her back, tied into her famous braid. Bright golden eyes seemed to never dim. Fair skin and the aura of the ocean made many men fall for her. Keldo was a lucky man to marry her. "Now that Drave is here, the war is finally over. The Morvaies have given up and decided to leave us in peace." Celia continued. 

"That's great news. Many have given their lives for this moment." Kestra replies with a smile on her face. She heard footsteps approaching and turned slightly. A shiver ran down her spine. Drave was slowly approaching her. 

"My King. I'm pleased to announce that we informed the other regiments of the surrender, and they are heading home." Drave recounted as he reached Kestra's side. 

Why does he have to stand so close to me? Kestra thought, resisting the urge to move. She could barely stand being in the same room with him, let alone standing next to him. She felt darkness surrounding her when he was near. Darkness and something else she couldn't quite place. 

"I'm delighted to hear that, Captain. They deserve to come home after all these years." Keldo beamed, looking at all in the room. He was a man that everyone respected. He stood 6'0, his short black hair didn't show a hint of grey. His dark blue eyes were tender and caring. Looking back at Drave, he continues, "Drave, I would like a full report later. Right now, you and your men take the rest of the day to relax.". 

"Of course, my king." Drave acknowledged with a slight bow. 

As he turned to leave, he stopped and turned to Kestra. Now, what does he want? Can't he leave? Kestra thought, as she saw him turn towards her. 

"Let me know if there is anything that I can do for you, Princess." Drave whispers and continues down to the door. 

Once he exited the room, Kestra turned to her father. She saw in his eyes he wanted to talk to her about something. 

"Kestra, would you follow me? I have something to show you." Keldo says. Turning to his wife, he asked the simple question, "Celia, would you let the others know of the news?" 

"Of course," Celia replies, a hint of knowing in her eyes. "You two have fun." 

Without another word, Kestra followed Keldo to the training grounds. She spent a lot of time here. When she couldn't escape to the river or needed to let out her frustration, this was her escape. It was here her magic awakened. Here, her father taught her to fight for herself. She scanned the area and observed multiple guards instructing the new recruits. Upon seeing Scyfire and his brother engaged in a battle on the field, she offered a slight smile. 

Her attention returned to her father, who motioned for her to come closer. Following him once again, he brought them to the other side of the area. To the right, her father moved to the grey stone wall behind a cluster of trees. Knowing that he was showing her an unexplored location, she followed him. They stopped before the stone wall as her father smiled at her. 

"Where are we going?" Kestra asked. Her father took his time before replying. Instead, he placed his hand on a stone that Kestra noticed had a subtle difference compared to the others. "Umm…" Kestra's surprise and confusion grew. As the rock her father touched glowed faintly, she took a step back, unsure of how to process her surroundings. 

Before her was now an open passageway. Glancing at the sides, she noticed there were no torches for light. She stepped in carefully, catching herself as she slipped slightly on the stairs. 

"Careful. Why don't you let me take the lead?" Keldo smiles behind her, placing his hand on her shoulder. 

She followed close behind as she watched him conjure a ball of light. Where is he taking me? Kestra thought. When Keldo suddenly stopped, he motioned to her to be quiet. She didn't know why, but she did as he asked. 

Kestra couldn't see anything as he extinguished the glow. She listened, but heard nothing. She was about to speak, then she heard voices within the room. Her father opened a door that was inside the stone wall. As he walked into the room, Kestra following closely behind. 

Once she entered the room, she saw a long wooden table with several charts on it. The voices that she had heard belonged to several elves. Two people caught her eye, neither of which she had seen before. One was a middle-aged human, the only one that she had ever seen. He had black hair that came to his shoulders, hazel eyes, and a fit upper body. What surprised her the most was the beard, that was kept neatly trimmed. 

Kestra turned her attention to the other. He was an elf, older than her, but still young. He had short, dark brown hair. His green eyes held determination. She noticed the symbol in the middle of his armored vest. The Royal Guard. She knew the elf was the commander of the men in the room. 

She saw the human stand and address the other. "Shadow, I best be off. Who knows what they are up to? Besides, the Dark One is planning something, and I'm prepared to find out what." 

Her father spoke and addressed him. "I hope to hear a report soon." 

"I will not let you down, sir." The human said. His voice was soft and caring. It was entirely different from Drave's. 

As he exited, he spoke, "King Keldo, Princess Kestra, I will not fail you." 

As Kestra stood there wondering who the human was, her father beckoned the elf, Shadow, to approach. 

"Kestra, this is Shadow. He is one of our generals and leader of the Guard." Her father tells her. Though she had never met him, Kestra had heard much about Shadow. He didn't go by his real name, like a few of the leaders. His name came from saving Keldo's life when he killed the assailant from the shadows. 

"It's an honor to meet you properly, Princess." Shadow said. His voice was full of compassion. Kestra could tell he could make it filled with pleasant humor if he chose. 

Keldo spoke softly. "Shadow is the one that we appointed to watch over you, Kestra. When the war started, we had Morviae spies within Melderan. We knew we could trust Shadow to protect you if anything happened to your mother and me." 

Kestra sat down on a chair that was behind her and was silent. This man that she had just met was watching over her, protecting her, viewed her as a younger sister. It took a few minutes for all this information to sink in, and once it did, she was glad. 

She thought back on a night a few months ago. The slamming of her locked chamber door startled her awake. Knowing someone was trying to enter, she clambered out of her bed and retrieved her sword. Feeling a little more prepared, she moved closer, not wanting to be caught by surprise. When she stood a few feet away, she turned her attention to listening. 

Slam. Her door rattled, but refused to give way. 

"If you aren't awake by now, Kainer, you soon will be." Someone growled quietly on the other side. "Once you are, I'll be enjoying this to the end." 

It was a low growl. One that belonged to a Morvaie. Kestra's heartbeat quickened. What was a Morvaie doing in the castle? How did he even get in? 

Slam. The noise brought her out of her thoughts. She returned her focus to what was ahead. She heard footsteps coming up the corridor and braced herself. Is there more? Kestra thought. 

"Kentight." A voice rang out. "I should have figured." It was a gentler voice, but seething with anger. Kestra heard a sword being drawn. "You dare enter our castle." 

The one named Kentight chuckled as he drew his own sword. "I dare a lot more than that, Shadow. As General, I expected you to know what I want." 

Kestra stood in there in silence, listening to what lay beyond her door. Swords clashed against each other. Neither saying anything else. She had no way of knowing what was occurring without opening the door. She refused to, knowing that doing so would put her in harm's way. Suddenly, something slammed into her door again, making her back up. Still holding her sword at her side, she heard the two arguing once again. 

"Give up, Elf?" Kentight taunted. 

"I should ask you the same." Shadow responded. 

Kentight laughed. "You're no match for me, General." 

Shadow quickly responded. "I'm taking you directly to the dungeons. Once morning comes, the King will know of this. You will pay for your crimes against the crown and people." 

"Is that what you really think?" Kentight growled. "You're pathetic. The Prophesy is coming true. Everything you have worked so hard to prevent is coming to light. Your Liberator hasn't even come forward to stop it." 

"Silence." Shadow whispered. 

"Not even your princess will escape the Dark One's wrath. Slave or not, I will make her my own. Her perfectly sweet body will know no greater man. Accept that fact, Elf. I will have her eventually." 

Kestra pulled herself out of the memory. Shadow was protecting her from whomever it was that hunted her. She had not mentioned this to her parents, afraid that they would increase her security. 

"I'm very pleased to meet you, Shadow." Kestra finally says. 

Shadow gave her a smile, knowing what she was thinking. She may have said nothing, but he knew she heard the fight. He kept it a secret but watch over her afterward. 

After her father had introduced her to the other members of the Guard that were in the room, he took her over to the table. What she saw nearly made her gasp. She saw a chart of the Morvaies Territory. She wondered why her father would have a map like this in his possession. The next charts she saw were of all the Morvaies land and Melderan. 

"Kestra, I meant to tell you this when we first walked in. You are in the Royal Guard chart room," Keldo says, looking at his daughter. It was too risky for him to tell her that the Dark One was plotting to seize control of Melderan. He didn't want her to worry. Noticing the awe in Kestra's eyes, he carried on. 

"I needed you to see this. I've hidden it from you for some time because I didn't want you to fear the possibility of me going into battle. With the war behind us, I am no longer driven by fear. The time has come for you to learn how to read our maps properly. We will start tomorrow. Now let's go before your mother wonders what crazy thing you have done this time." 

Over the next few days, Keldo took Kestra to the chart room. He shared with her the knowledge of opening the passage. He chuckled as she explored the various locations below. It was necessary for him to explain to her that this served as a protected shelter in case of an invasion. The several rooms would allow a small company to be stationed underneath. There were several passages into the castle that would enable them to enter unnoticed. 

Kestra learned fast. It didn't take long to teach her how to read the map accurately and plan specific routes. It easily became something she looked forward to. One day, while on the training field, she caught sight of Drave. In her heart, she wished he remained ignorant of the chart room's existence. Lately, whenever she saw him, she had a sense that he was up to something. Walking towards them, Drave addressed them. His voice sounded unusually smooth and deeper than usual. With effort, Kestra restrained a tremor and looked away. She didn't dare look to see his eyes. 

"My king is now a better time?" Despite looking at Kestra, Drave still asked. Drave made her feel as if he had a grasp on her arm and was unwilling to let go. 

"Indeed, Drave, it is." Keldo nodded. He turned to Kestra. "Would you mind seeing if Sylvaria is around? She's lurking around here. She inquired about when Drave and I would talk about specific matters. I'm telling you, that dragon worries even more than I do." 

There was a weighty feeling in Kestra's heart as she thought about her father going with Drave. She wanted to tell her father that she didn't want him to go. She had the urge to let him know about the feeling she had been experiencing lately. The sight of her father's caring eyes left her unable to say anything. "Yes, Father." 

Kestra saw her father walking back to the door that led inside. Drave came to a stop, giving way to Keldo to enter ahead of him. Drave looked back at Kestra, revealing his dark maroon eyes, the eyes of a Morvaie. Disregarding the previous events, Drave turned around and calmly returned indoors. Kestra questioned if what she saw was real or simply a figment of her imagination. The fact alone scared her more than anything else. 

She needed to clear her head. Keldo's request should do it. Fortunately, she didn't need to search very far. Under the shade of the tree outside Kestra's bedroom window, she discovered the snoozing dragon in a small courtyard. Just as Kestra was going to let the dragon sleep, she heard Sylvaria stirring. 

"Kestra, are you alright?" Sylvaria inquired, her big golden eyes gazing up at her. 

"I'm fine, Sylvaria, really. My Father requested me to let you know Drave is currently speaking with him." Kestra stated. She refrained from discussing her suspicion that Drave was a Morvaie. She didn't believe it herself. 

"I don't like the fact that Drave is talking to your parents alone. Something has changed in him. Why don't you tell me what's bothering you? I suspect you have something to say about Drave." Sylvaria said. There was nothing she cared about more than Kestra. 

Kestra sat down beside the golden dragon. Taking several deep breaths, Kestra composed her thoughts. Before she could start, a door slammed, and angry footsteps startled Kestra. In order to see the source of the anger, Kestra scaled the enormous tree. Upon seeing who it was, she tightened her grip on the tree to avoid slipping. 

Drave was angrily shouting at her father, but it was unclear what it was about. Shortly after Drave left, Kestra slid back down. She went back inside with Sylvaria to find out what the argument was about. When she found her father, he was in the throne room talking to Shadow. She didn't know the reason, but she knew what was about to happen. Keldo was talking about her protection. After trying to prove she didn't need it, this is what she gets. She had schooled several out in the training field in both hand to hand combat and defensive magic. Her father saw her and asked her to enter. 

"Kestra, you are probably wondering why Shadow is here. Drave is angry with us. We must ensure your protection." Keldo stopped. He was thinking about telling Kestra what, and who, Drave really was, but decided against it. 

"Father," Kestra started, "you know I don't need any extra protection. I have matched some of your best warriors on the training field. You know I can protect myself." 

Keldo looked at his daughter with sorrowful eyes. "I know, Kestra. To ensure your safety at night, Shadow will protect you, just in case." 

"Just in case what?" Kestra inquired. She saw a look in her father's eyes that she had never seen before. It was a look of sorrow and worry. 

"It's nothing. Shadow is just a precaution if you will." Keldo replies instantly. He came up and placed his hands on her shoulders. "Kestra, it's nothing. Shadow will just be watching over you momentarily." 

Kestra agrees to what her father asks. She didn't know what else to do. 

A few days passed, and Kestra was still as restless as ever. She paced around her room, her eyes settling on her sword. Deciding on a path, she quickly changed out of the gown she wore and into travel clothes. After braiding her hair, she buckled the sheath in place. Giving one last look in the mirror, she put on her cloak and climbed down the tree. 

Making her way towards Entoen, she knew something was amiss. The city was silent; the businesses closed. As she continued down the cobblestone path, she saw the tightly shut houses. Hoping for answers, she noticed a figure in the distance. A hand on her shoulder made her stop abruptly. Drawing her sword part way, she turned around, breathing a sigh of relief as she did so. It was Shadow. 

"What are you doing here?" Shadow asked. His voice was no louder than a whisper. 

"I needed to get out of the palace for a while. I was going crazy not knowing what was going on." Kestra replies. She desperately wanted to see who the figure was that was farther down the street. 

Shadow looked at the figure, then back to Kestra. "Princess." He whispers. "It's not safe out here. I suggest we head back to the palace." 

"I will head back as soon as I find out why the townsfolk have everything locked up." Kestra replies sternly, pulling her shoulder out of his grasp. 

She turned away from Shadow and walked down the street. As soon as she was close enough, Kestra dodged into the alleyway across from the mysterious figure. When she adjusted her cloak, she heard them talking. 

Before she even looked to see, she recognized his voice. It was Drave, and he was talking to someone that sounded like a Morvaie with the low growling sound she heard. Her blood turned to ice as she listened to the conversation. 

"…they will be sorry." Drave says. 

"What about the girl? You can't let her run. You know she will reap the consequences if they find out you helped her escape." The other said. 

"You let me deal with her. You just make sure that nobody finds out." Drave continues. 

Kestra's skin crawled. Drave was up to something, but she didn't know what. She hoped he wouldn't find her standing here, listening to the conversation. From the alleyway, she made her way back to the palace. She had to escape before Drave found her. 

"Princess Kestra, what are you doing here?" Drave asks. Kestra's stomach dropped as she realized Drave had caught her. 

"Nothing. I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air." She replies. Why does he want to know, anyway? Kestra thought. "Why are you here?" 

"I'm just patrolling. I heard the Morvaies are planning to raid the palace." Drave with his low voice, although it sounded strained, as if he was forcing his voice to remain calm. 

At least his voice is back to normal, or at least it sounds like it is. Kestra thought. She turned her head slightly and saw Shadow coming up behind her. 

"Drave, what are you doing here? You should be sleeping. Your shift doesn't start until dusk." Shadow says. 

Drave seemed undaunted. "I was on my way now, General." He says and started on his way. 

When Drave was out of sight, Shadow turned to Kestra and says, "Let's get you back to the palace." 

Kestra didn't have any objections about the idea. Once they got back, Kestra headed up to her sleeping quarters to remove her sword and cloak. What is going on here? Kestra thought. Who was Drave talking to? Why was the town closed up? Kestra spent the next few hours thinking about these questions. "I may have to do some research on my own." She whispers to herself. She had just reached a decision when a knock came on her door. 

"Princess." 

"What is it, Shadow?" Kestra asks. 

"Your parents have asked to see you." 

Kestra gave a sigh and went with Shadow. She found her parents in the throne room, and she noticed something that she had only seen a few times. Kestra's parents had a worried look in their eyes as her mother rushed towards her. 

"Kestra, we were so worried about you." Celia says as she hugged her and wouldn't let go. 

Kestra looked at her mother, wondering what she was talking about. Keldo thought about how he would tell Kestra what her mother meant. 

"What your mother is saying is that…" Keldo started. He couldn't tell his daughter what the argument was about. "Drave hasn't been acting like himself lately, and we were wondering why you left." 

Kestra wanted to tell her parents about what she heard while in Entoen. She wanted her parents to explain more; she felt they were hiding something from her. Following their silence, she revealed her information. 

"I need to say something." she started. Once they focused on her, she continued. "I was at Entoen, and I heard Drave talking to someone. I'm not sure who it was, though." 

She saw her mother trembling. 

"What did he say?" Keldo says firmly. He needed to know what Kestra had heard. If she had heard something that might put her in any sort of harm, she would run to the source and fight before thinking about the consequences that could follow. 

Kestra relayed the words that she heard as her father urged her to continue. "I heard Drave say that he would deal with the girl and that the other needed to make sure that nobody found out." 

Kestra shuddered as she spoke. She didn't mention that she thought she was the girl in question; she didn't dare. Hearing Celia cry, she reacted. "I'm alright, Mother." 

"Kestra," Celia says thru the tears. "I was afraid of this. Drave is extremely angry with us. He wants the throne for himself." 

"Celia, don't say anymore," Keldo commands. He didn't want their daughter to know too much. He didn't wish for Kestra to do something before she thought it through once again. 

"Is that what the argument was about?" Kestra asks. She wanted to confirm her suspicions. She needed to know why Drave was acting differently. 

"It's late. I suggest we go to bed." Keldo says before Celia could say anymore. Seeing the confused and wondering look in Kestra's eyes, he took her hand. "Kestra," He wanted to tell her everything, but he couldn't yet. She wasn't ready. 

"Father, what is it?" Kestra asks. She had never seen her father act like this before. It worried her. 

"It's nothing. Really. Let's head to bed. I will explain everything later. I promise." Keldo finished. He knew Kestra saw the sorrow in his eyes. He turned to his daughter. "Kestra, don't worry about what you heard. There is extra protection only for tonight. I don't want you to do anything drastic. Don't run off just because of what you heard." 

Her father kissed Kestra on the head and walked in the opposite direction with Celia. Kestra stood there in the silence for a few minutes, letting everything sink in. She debated doing her own research about the Morvaies and the Dark One. She let out a yawn and decided she would start it in the morning. 

Kestra exited the room and headed up to her chambers. The day's activities filled her mind as she ascended the stone staircase. Who was Drave talking to? Was she the girl that was in question, and if so, what did Drave want with her? Was the extra protection just for one night like her father had said? 

Kestra was so deep in her thoughts that she didn't hear the footsteps coming up behind her. They seemed to speed up as they got closer. She didn't give it much thought until she heard a voice. 

'Your time has come, Liberator. You will be mine.' The voice hissed. 

Kestra quickly turned around. She was about to reach for her sword when she remembered leaving it locked in her room. She was defenseless except for her hands and magic. "Just great." She mumbles to herself. While she was adequate, her skills were lacking. 

While looking around the empty stone corridor, she saw nothing. It's probably just Shadow and the other guards patrolling. I've got to get a grip. Kestra thought, shrugging her shoulders. She continued on a few more steps when she knew something wasn't right. As she went to look back again, Kestra felt a gloved hand cover her mouth. What is Scyfire up to now? When she tried to turn around to face him, she felt cold metal under her chin. That's not Scyfire. 

"Not a word, Princess." The voice whispered. Kestra didn't know the voice, but it sounded familiar. Her captor's whispering interrupted her thoughts. "The Dark One said your capture would be difficult. It turned out to be much simpler than I expected. Now start walking." Kestra studied the voice. It was so low it sounded like a growl, almost like it belongs to a MORVAIE! Drave wasn't lying when he said that they were planning an attack. 

Kestra's eyes widened with fear, and she knew that a muffled scream would be worthless. She knew she had to escape. Many tales of Morvaies and their treatment of captives filled her head. Her gaze drifted to the gloved hand over her mouth. It had a claw set upon four knuckles, the rank of a general. 

She elbowed the Morvaie in the gut, making him double over. Kestra knew he would soon go after her again. Quickly, she sprinted towards her room. As she tried to run, the Morvaie caught her ankle, sending her tumbling. Kestra had barely recovered when the Morvaie pinned her. 

"Tsk, tsk, Princess. I won't like it if you tried to get away again. Now, are you going to come quietly, or are you going to be stubborn?" The Morvaie whispered in her ear. 

"The Dark One can eat my sword's sparks." Kestra remarked furiously, trying to place the voice. The Morvaie's voice seemed to possess a depth unlike any she had heard from others of its kind. 

"That hurts." The Morvaie replied, mockingly, placing a hand over his heart. He continued, reaching for Kestra's arms. "So cruel, Kainer. Then again, you've often said such things about the Dark One and his humble servants." 

'Kentight.' The voice from earlier hissed. 'Don't let the Kainer escape. Bring her to me before the Guardians notice.' 

A cold sweat broke out on Kestra upon hearing the voice. Fear paralyzed her. 'Singina,' A second voice whispered. This one was different. Instead of hissing, it was gentle and warm. 'Help is on the way.' 

Kestra gently shook her head to clear it. "Who are you anyway?" She spat. The Morvaie, named Kentight, pulled her to her feet and turned her around. 

"You mean you haven't figured it out yet?" Kentight's smile frightened Kestra, and his eyes brightened. It was like any eyes she had ever seen. His left eye was as dark as night, and his right was light maroon. "You are pathetic, Princess. Since the first raid, people have known, including your parents. Don't they tell you anything? What's this?" 

Kestra didn't have time to respond to the questions before she felt him move her hair to the right. 

"It can't be. You can't be." Kentight whispered. He followed a scar with his fingers as he held his blade with his thumb. He traced down her neck to the top of her left shoulder blade. 

'KENTIGHT! BRING HER TO ME NOW!' A booming voice filled the air as darkness enveloped them. 

"Yes, Sir." Kentight whispers, acknowledging the voice. "Now, let's try this again, shall we." He turned his attention back to Kestra. Still in awe of his discovery, he placed his blade once again under Kestra's chin, turning her around. "Start walking." 

"I don't plan to go anywhere with you." With each word, Kestra felt her magic flowing strongly within. Before she could speak a single word, a transparent barrier appeared in front of both. Kestra's voice died in her throat as confusion took over her. 

Kentight blinked his eyes, perplexed. "How did you…" Kentight whispered. He didn't hear her say a word. 

'Singina, run.' A gentle voice called out, startling the Morvaie. Kestra wiggled her way out as the darkness disappeared. Not needing to be told twice, she ran. 

"Lum!" Kentight snarls as the figure appeared. The Guardian's messenger had appeared before him. She had interfered many times in the past and continued to do so. 

"Yes." Lum spoke. Her armor seemed to be made of crystals. "Her time is not yet. And you will not go a step farther." 

'You will pay for interrupting Lum.' The voice hissed. 'I will personally destroy you.' 

Lum looked unfazed as she continued to stare at Kentight. Her hand shot up, pointing directly at him. A bright light shot out, and Lum disappeared just as quickly as she came. 

Kentight growled but didn't move until Lum left. 'Kentight, get me the Princess.' The voice hissed. With renewed resolve, Kentight took a step. In the blink of an eye, he collapsed to the floor, grabbing his chest. His blade dropped to the ground. Once he recovered, he looked up and saw Kestra. Her eyes reflected her confusion as she broke into a run once again. Fueled by rage, he seized his dagger and flung it at her. 

Kestra stopped when she felt the sharp pain of a blade cutting her. Taking the chance, she looked behind her and couldn't believe what she saw. Kentight was on the ground, smiling straight at her. Coming back to her senses, she continued down the corridor to her chambers. 

"You'll regret making that decision, Princess. I hope the Dark One doesn't take it too easy on you." He cries after her. Of course, he won't. I know that for a fact. He added afterward in his mind. 

Once she reached her room, she pushed the guards aside as she ran in. Her silence about the incident went unchallenged. Once inside, she examined the wound. It wasn't deep, for which she was grateful. She bandaged the cut, planning to treat it later. Disoriented, she began packing. Hearing a knock on her door caused her to halt. 

"Kestra, are you alright?" Scyfire asks. Shadow told him what happened in town, so he came to check on her. 

"Everything's fine, Scyfire. I'm just tired, that's all." Kestra replies. She knew Scyfire wouldn't fall for that, but he didn't push her. 

"You're sure you're alright?" Scyfire asks again. 

"Yes. I'm fine." Kestra responded without hesitation. 

"Alright. Get some rest. I will see you in the morning. Love you." 

She listened to the retreating footsteps. She waited for silence before continuing. "How did a Morvaie get in here?" Whispering to herself. "No one would let them in. One thing that bothers me the most is how well he knew his way around." 

Kestra reached for her sword when she saw the one hanging on the wall. Stories said the Guardians created it, and it would bring peace and mental clarity to its true owner. She never dared use it, though her parents believed it was for her. She inexplicably felt drawn to it. 

'It is time, Singina, for sword and master to become one.' Lum's voice echoed. 

A light filled the room the moment she touched the sword. A warmth, unlike any other, ran through her. Her mind cleared as the light faded. Reeling from the confusion, a vision flashed before her. 

Commanding an entire army of Morvaies, she saw Drave. She noticed the destruction of houses and shops. Her people faced slaughter and enslavement. 

Kestra jumped back in shock, dropping the sword. It was unlike anything she had ever experienced. Her visions have lacked such detail until now. 'Remember what you saw, Singina.' A distinct voice told her. It was soft like Lum's but also commanding. 'You will be the promise that will save them.' Kestra looked around to find who spoke. She was alone. Slowly, she reached for the sword and fastened it. She left the other sword on the wall. Stopping abruptly at the window, she realized she owed her parents an explanation for her sudden departure. 

Having found her paper and inkwell, she started writing. 

By the time someone reads this letter, I will be within the forest of Eldar. A Morvaie attacked me in the upper western corridor. I foresaw our people's destruction. What I saw was a Morvaie army enslaving and slaughtering our people under the command of Drave. Don't worry about me, I will be fine. I'm going to stop this threat before it spreads. Please make sure Scyfire knows I love him. 

Kestra folded the letter and placed it on her bed. Giving one last look around, she closed the bay doors behind her. She tossed her pack off the side, hearing it land on the ground below. Clasping her cloak in place, she lifted herself up on the sturdy branch. She has done this so often; she could do it in the dark. Once her feet touched the ground, she found the dragon at the bottom of the tree, with her eyes closed. Kestra knew better than to fall for that. "I'm running away, Sylvaria. Don't try to stop me." 

The golden beast opened her eyes and looked at her. "What's the reason this time, Kestra? Did Scyfire break up with you, or is it you don't want a royal life again?" Sylvaria asks, nearly laughs. She recalled Kestra previously making similar statements but never acting on them. 

"Neither. A Morvaie General attacked me as I headed to my rooms." Kestra replies, hoisting her pack on her back. Only then did Sylvaria notice the cut on Kestra's arm. 

"Kestra, this is more serious than you realize. Shouldn't you tell your parents about this? This isn't the first time. First, you almost disappeared in town, and now this. Wasn't there also a close call with a Morvaie about a year ago?" Sylvaria asks, worried about Kestra's safety. In contrast to the young elf, she fully grasped her importance in the war. 

"I did not almost disappear. Shadow was there." Kestra rolled her eyes, annoyed. "And I already wrote them a note. I'm going to stop this threat, Sylvaria, with or without you." Kestra grumbled, looking at her friend. 

"You are not going alone. Trust me, this is the chance the Dark One's been waiting for." Sylvaria growls, standing up. 

"Who is the Dark One?" Kestra questions as Sylvaria drew near. 

"An extremely wicked Morvaie. Even though I don't know his name, you have never met him." 

"In my vision, Drave commanded the army." Kestra replies, making her way to the gate. 

"There is more to Drave than you know, Kestra. There are reasons behind his behavior." Sylvaria kept calm. 

"Like wanting to rule." Kestra whispered. Halting abruptly, she felt a dark aura. Cautiously, she continued, looking around. "I heard the argument he had with my parents." 

"You might suspect Drave, but he had no choice." Sylvaria replies, her eyes glistening in the moonlight. 

"What?" Kestra stopped when she heard that. "What do you mean?" 

"I'm not one who should answer that. However, I will say the answers will come to you. I promise." With a comforting nudge from Sylvaria's muzzle, they vanished into the night. 

*** 

With the dagger he'd thrown at the Princess recovered, Kentight disappeared into the shadows, aware that guards would soon patrol the area. In the stone corridor, he located the servants' staircase. Stepping outside, he eased the stone back into place and listened to the Princess speaking to someone. He listened carefully to what was being said. 

"Kestra, this is more serious than you realize. Don't you think your parents ought to know about this?" 

Kentight realized Kestra was talking to the dragon. Seeing Kestra stop, Kentight retreated further into the shadows. He let out a small breath when she continued. "I heard the argument he had with my parents." 

'Let them go, Kentight.' A voice hissed. 'She appears to be entirely ignorant of who she is.' 

A growl of frustration escaped Kentight. He turned to the voice and saw a shadowy figure. "She Is right there. I could snatch her quickly." He whispers into the shadows. 

'No. You will have your chance. For now, find out what she knows and return to The Abandoned Caverns.' The voice finished as the shadows dispersed. 

In a low growl of frustration, he turned his attention back to the Princess and the dragon. If the conversation requires it, they will erase the Princess's memory after her capture. Once the two were out of sight, Kentight continued and exited the castle grounds before the guards could spot him.