CH 18: BREAKING A SPIRIT

TW: assault, threats.

Kestra knew they reached Kneontide before it was in view. In the last weeks, wherever she looked, she saw the path of damage and destruction. The forest, which had once been a haven, was now a place of fear. Many of the animals have fled and left the forest desolate. She silently wondered where

they have gone, wishing she could go with them.

Her mind became occupied with thoughts of her people. Were they alright? How many people can make it through? What could she do to save them when she herself was a prisoner?

Drave's attention shifted to the window as he left Kestra to her thoughts. 'Worry not, Alen.' He heard in his mind. 'There is still hope. Lose not your faith. The time when you are needed quickly approaches.' She has been entirely silent, and her spirit weakened considerably since Scyfire's treachery.

He didn't blame her, yet he also knew she was going to be experiencing worse.

I will do what I can to protect you, I swear it. He promised in his mind.

They were both pulled out of their own separate thoughts as the carriage stopped. Drave saw Kestra turn towards him as he reached for the door. He was the first to exit, offering his hand as she stepped down. He placed his arm around her lower back. At the sound of rustling, he turned to his left and saw that Strailoch had also dismounted.

"It would be wise to make camp here, my king. The castle is close by." Strailoch spoke in a gruff voice.

Drave nodded as he walked away, while Kestra followed closely behind. She didn't seem to be bothered by his touch. "See that it's done. Once rested, we will formulate a plan."

Kestra watched Strailoch as he left. She couldn't stop thinking about how Drave seemed to agree to everything he said. Who is the leader, and who is the puppet? She shook the thoughts away as they

walked away. The army was distant enough for privacy, but still within view.

"You can rest here. You need it." Drave took a gentle tone as he sat down. Kestra sat across from him, refusing to speak. He realized she was still lost in her own thoughts. He watched as she curled up,

hugging her knees and resting her forehead on them. With her small sigh, he knew she was fighting back tears once more. Despite his worry, he concealed it by shutting his eyes. A few minutes later, he heard

footsteps approaching. He opened his eyes, glancing towards Kestra. She hasn't moved. He looked towards the sound and saw Scyfire and Strailoch.

Strailoch stopped by Drave's side, leaning against the trees. He chuckled silently as he watched Scyfire approach Kestra. He knew the boy still had feelings for her, but his desire for power was much grander. A perfect tool in breaking the Princess and molding her into what he wanted her to be.

Scyfire shifted his weight as he stopped by Kestra. He wasn't sure what to say to her. He has tried several times to get her to understand, none successful. Deciding on what to do, he spoke.

"Kestra, if I may." Scyfire asked, acknowledging the space beside her. When she didn't reply, he tried again. "Kestra, I really am sorry for what I did to you." He continued kneeling by her.

She gave him a sideward glance, refusing to raise her head. Despite betraying her, he still wore the Royal uniform. She learned Strailoch mentioned to him that a new outfit and armor would be created once things settled. Before answering him, she closed her eyes.

"No, you're not Scyfire. Don't bother apologizing for breaking my heart, since you never truly cared about me. Your constant repetition doesn't change the fact that you're not being honest. You made your choice, and nothing is going to change that." She snapped at him. She couldn't tell if she was

more hurt or angry at the fact that he was trying to justify his actions.

"You know I had to." Scyfire uttered, taken aback. She barely has spoken a few words to him since, now he was on the receiving end of her anger. He placed his fingers on her arm and gently brushed up and down. He knew from experience it had helped calm her in the past. "I had to join the army, or else

they would kill me." Scyfire replied quietly.

She looked up and gave him a piercing stare as she pulled away from his touch. "And what, might I ask, so wrong about dying for me? Did you already forget I wanted to run off with you when I found you? I wanted to escape this, but I knew I couldn't risk it. My wants had to be pushed to the side, because if I didn't, it was going to be worse for everyone, including you.

"But you don't care what happens, do you? If all hell broke loose, you wouldn't hesitate to kill me, and a thousand others, to join Timore himself if he would let you live." Her voice became louder as she spoke. She choked back tears, determined not to show any weakness.

"That's not true." Scyfire replied, shocked.

"You expect me to believe that after what you've said, what you've done? You will never understand true love or dedication because you care too much about your own stupid, wretched life to even try. Don't talk to me anymore, Scyfire. It's over, and you know it." Kestra got up and began walking

away.

"Kestra I…" Scyfire started after her.

"That's enough." Drave's order shocked Scyfire, allowing Kestra to leave as Strailoch trailed behind. "Don't you realize that your relationship with her is over? You ended it by telling her that your life is more important than anything, including her. Did no one teach you that you should never value

anything more than your loved ones, even your own life? Now let her go."

"I'm afraid I can't do that." Scyfire responded, gazing down at the ground. "And hopefully you don't mind me asking, but who do you love?"

"Why would you ask?" Drave responded, taken aback.

"There must be someone you love so much that you'd be willing to die for. Why else would you give me such advice?"

"None of your concern. Resume your duty now." Drave ordered with a snarl.

Drave watched Scyfire bow and walk away. Once he left, Drave stood and walked down to where Kestra had fled. He came across her on the bank of the River of Sunole, with her chin propped on her knees. Looking around, he noticed Strailoch against a boulder a few feet north. He knew that Kestra

frequently visited this place to resolve her issues both before and during the war. It was not surprising to discover her here.

As footsteps drew near, Kestra shifted her attention to see who was coming. If it were Scyfire, she would ask Strailoch to force him to depart. She couldn't bear to have her heart broken by him once more, especially not in her sacred place. Seeing that it was Drave, she turned her back to the river. She

watched as the water flowed freely and calmly. She dipped her fingers into the water, trying to determine the best course of action.

Drave walked up and sat beside her. He noticed her tear-streaked cheeks as he placed a hand on her arm. "You won't have to deal with him anymore." Drave spoke gently, trying to calm her troubled mind.

"Who?" Kestra asked in a whisper.

Drave noticed she forced back another wave of tears that threatened to emerge. If only I could help ease her pain. Drave thought.

"You know exactly who I'm talking about." Drave responded with sympathy.

I want to share my secret and the prophecy with her, but I can't with Strailoch around. Drave continued to think. Once more, he witnessed tears flowing down her face. "What can I do to help ease your pain?"

"Let me go." Kestra whispered. She couldn't find it in her heart to tell him to go away. His

company brought her peace, as if he were someone she loved and who loved her. Not just acted but truly loved her. Drave arrived as she was thinking about it. There have been many changes. She no longer felt totally threatened by him. His presence is a comfort now.

"I can't do that, Kestra. I can't do that because…" Drave's words were abruptly interrupted.

"Drave, I need to speak with you. NOW!" Strailoch's tone was harsh.

Kestra was utterly shocked. She had never heard Strailoch speak to Drave in that manner since being held captive. What could have Strailoch so riled up that would make him talk to Drave like he was in charge? Is there some more significant threat here than I initially thought? Kestra thought.

With a silent sigh, Drave got to his feet. Giving Kestra one last look, he made his way towards Strailoch. To prevent Kestra from overhearing, Strailoch guided Drave further along the bank.

"Were you about to tell her your secret, Drave?" Strailoch snapped, never diverting his attention from Kestra.

"No, I wasn't." Drave replied, using his own authoritative voice.

"You remember what will happen if you do tell her, do you not?" Strailoch inquired.

Drave remained silent. He risked a quick look back at Kestra. Despite the passing time, he saw her still sitting there, her fingers in the water. He knew she was straining to hear what they were talking about. As soon as he saw her turn towards them, he greeted her with a smile.

Strailoch's hand clasped Drave's chin, ensuring he couldn't look away. "Do I need to refresh your memory, Drave? If you expose your identity or my new plans for her, I will delight in slowly torturing her before your eyes." Strailoch halted and fixed his gaze on Kestra. Seeing her facing them, he allowed his eyes to turn blood red as he grinned evilly. The fear was clear in her eyes.

"I know you love her, Drave. I see it every time you are near her. Destroying your beautiful girlfriend now would be such a shame." Strailoch turned back to Drave. "We're nearly at the castle, and she's been so cooperative ever since we captured her. Especially with the new insight she so generously gave. So caring for others, isn't she? Take a free lesson from her actions. Don't make me harm her. Who

knows, we might need her later on." Strailoch released Drave's chin, forcefully. "If you even drop a hint Drave, I will take great pleasure using her as an example in front of everyone. Do not disappoint me. Do I

make myself clear?"

"Unavoidably." Rubbing his chin, Drave issued a stern warning to Strailoch: "If you so much as touch her…"

"I won't harm her unless one of you does something to displease me. You know your place, Drave. And Kestra will learn hers in due time." Strailoch paused as soon as he noticed Kestra's movement. Despite realizing she was only stretching her legs, he maintained his focus on her. "Until then, you can think of her as a bargaining chip. No harm will be done unless you make a mistake. Tread carefully, for even a simple one can turn out to be quite drastic on your part." Strailoch told him calmly.

As Kestra moved, Strailoch started making his way towards her. He had no intention of letting her get away. "I think we should be able to reach the castle at our pace in a few hours. We should talk to the Generals and solidify a plan." Strailoch grabbed Kestra's arm. "Oh, and just so you know, we are going to make some changes. I hope you don't mind."

"What kind of changes?" Drave asked, attempting to sound composed.

"Nothing much. Just what we are going to do once we conquer the castle." A simple glance from Strailoch towards Kestra made it clear to Drave that the subject revolved around her.

Strailoch roughly pulled her to her feet, forcing her arm behind her back. "That depends upon you and what you say. In

the meantime, I have a few friends that are getting quite impatient with us. The Princess will brighten their spirits considerably." Strailoch swiftly took Kestra into the forest, pulling her away before Drave could answer.

***

Kestra saw Strailoch walk towards her and knew she couldn't outrun him. What was his motive when he advised Drave to think of her as a bargaining tool? Despite her attempt to turn away, Strailoch forcefully grabbed her arm and pulled her up.

"What are you changing, Strailoch? Why does Drave value your thoughts on everything so much? And what do you plan to do to me?" Kestra spat with hatred.

"No need to be concerned about that, Princess. If I were you, I would be more worried about what your new boyfriend tells you. You don't want him to tell you something that could be deadly." Strailoch's reply came as a growl.

"What do you mean, new boyfriend?" Kestra asked, confused. She could feel him tightening his grip on her arm.

"I mean Drave. Were you so blinded by that fool that you didn't know? Drave has no intention of causing harm to you. His love for you remains, even after we pushed him to change his pathetic ways."Strailoch replied with a sneer.

With a chuckle, he unsheathes his Cursed Blade. He watched as Kestra stiffened upon feeling the cold metal against the back of her neck. Suddenly, he applied more pressure, causing it to puncture the small area. With a smile on his face, he sheathed the blade. Looking at the slight wound, he growled

in approval.

Kestra could feel her body being drained of magic. She was vulnerable to whatever they had in store. They hid her sword away. If it was even possible, she didn't have a clue where to look. She observed a Morvaie, Seter if she recalled correctly, making their way towards them. He presented

Strailoch with a clawed glove. She concealed her surprise upon witnessing the disappointment and shame reflected in his eyes. The glove caught her attention with its five golden claws. They placed one

claw to rest on top of each knuckle. Almost like Strailoch's rank was now, Ruler.

The fear in Kestra's eyes did not escape Strailoch's notice as he secured the glove on his hand. His fingers flexed as he tested the leather. Pleased with the work, he eagerly pushed Kestra forward, savoring the confusion in her eyes. She was still oblivious to his true identity and the role he would have in her demise.

***

Drave saw Strailoch harshly yank Kestra into a standing position. Her eyes showed a mixture of fear, concern, and worry. He could see it clearly. What am I going to do? I'm as much of a captive as Kestra is, except I know how to escape. If they caught me, Kestra would be as good as dead. How can I

do this without knowing who I can trust? Drave thought to himself as he followed Strailoch towards the army.

He saw Seter walking towards them, offering the clawed glove to Strailoch. Of course. Drave thought. Seter will help. All I need to do is get close enough to talk to him. With Strailoch here, it won't be easy.

***

Strailoch led Kestra away from the army and into the depths of the woods. After leading her into a small clearing, he stopped.

Kestra glanced at the company comprising three Morvaies. Their hands caught her attention first, making her swallow. He brought her to a group of generals. Despite her best efforts, she couldn't hide the fear that welled up inside her. They gave only the most despicable people the rank of general.

She had knowledge of their initiations and the aftermath of crossing their path.

Strailoch's smile grew wider as Kestra attempted to hide her fear. He knew the others would feel just as powerful as they sensed it as well. Raising his eyes, he glanced at all three."I brought you a gift, my friends." Strailoch spoke confidently.

"The Princess?" One of them growled. Kestra looked at the one who spoke. He stood five foot eight and was by far the strongest of the bunch. He was her old guard at The Abandoned Caverns. "She

is more useful to you than to us. Besides, I don't want a repeat of that faithful night."

"Now, now, Yungite. As far as I remember, it was Gallix that locked you in that cell, not Kestra. Rest assured, she won't resort to using magic for another illusion." Strailoch replied, reassuring them.

"Why would we want the Princess, Strailoch? I say just kill her now and get it over with. The castle is in view, anyway." Another said. Kestra noticed he was the shortest one of the three generals, only

standing five foot seven. His skin was dark like the rest of the Morvaies, almost black. She noticed a scar on his right arm and one on his left cheekbone. She saw he was drawing his sword ever so slowly.

"Hunter, that's enough." Strailoch ordered.

What is he doing ordering generals around? Kestra was confused. The one called Hunter placed his sword back. I might not know much about Morvaie Army ranks, but captains aren't over generals.

"We might need her to get into the castle, and we can't do that if she is dead."

"I think what Strailoch is trying to say is that he wants to lighten our spirits. Am I correct?" The last one said. He stood at six feet and was the calmest of them. His left eye was as dark as night, his right was light maroon. Kestra saw him flexing his gloved hand, cracking the leather. His eyes brightened with interest as he took in her appearance.

Kestra recognized him and cast him a venomous gaze. The sight of his eyes brightening brought back her fear. Memories of the stories told by her people came rushing back, describing a Morvaie with

eyes that would gleam before he attacked females.

"That's exactly right, Kentight." Strailoch grinned, victorious. Looking at Kestra, Strailoch continued. "Everyone here is someone your parents have heard of, in one way or another. Enjoy this opportunity of yours to get to know them each personally. Few get such a privilege."

Strailoch brushed her hair out of her face so that the others could see her better. Strailoch's gaze fell upon each of the Generals, his scrutiny unwavering. "Try not to harm her too much. We still need her." He let go of Kestra with a light push and carried on. "Oh, and just a warning, she is quite a vixen. I would watch your backs just in case she decides to pounce." He walked away, leaving Kestra alone with the three.

Kentight extended his hand and touched her face with his glove. "You look so much like your father. How is he doing, anyway? Are both he and your lovely mother still alive?" A chuckle spread across the Generals as Yungite started walking towards Kestra.

"Leave my parents out of this, you filthy Morvaie." Kestra angrily batted his hand away from her face.

"Strailoch was right about you, Princess. You are quite a vixen. You ought to learn where your place is." Hunter growled and unsheathed his hidden dagger, catching Kestra off guard.

"Hunter, you know what the Dark One said. Besides…" Yungite grabbed Kestra's shoulders from behind before she could run. "We have got a lot of catching up to do. Isn't that right, Love?"

Kestra quickly broke his grip as she shook off his hands. As she did, she heard the other two generals chuckling. As Kestra turned around, she saw Yungite approaching her once more. Carefully, she

retreated, her gaze fixed on his every move. After walking a few steps, she noticed something behind her. With a daring look, she quickly glanced behind her and realized her error. She went exactly where he wanted her to go, ultimately finding herself trapped by a tree. Yungite quickly closed the gap and

smiled. He knew he had her trapped and leaned in close.

"You know how much I missed talking with you, Princess? They assigned me to a different post. Your parents' guard, to be exact, after what your friend Gallix did to me. Your father knew who I was the moment he saw me." Yungite leaned in even closer to Kestra.

Kestra's escape was halted when he pressed his hands firmly on her shoulders. His breath, stale and unwelcome, met her skin as he leaned in closer. The sight of his teeth, which always haunted her dreams, made her shudder. Understanding Yungite's intentions, she struggled to escape his grasp.

"I don't think she likes you very much, Yungite." Kentight grinned. "Do you need some advice from the master?"

"If you're planning to kiss her, now is the time. When Strailoch returns, you may not have another opportunity." Hunter told him.

"Will you idiots give me a moment? I must admit, no kiss is romantic when you two bozos are talking." Yungite snapped back. He glared at the others until they stopped. Once they did, he returned his attention to Kestra. He drew nearer, leaning in. "Now, where were we?" He whispered into Kestra's

ear. "Oh, yes. I remember."

Yungite leaned in and brushed his cheek against Kestra's before kissing her lips. Once he located hers, he shut his eyes. He enjoyed every minute. It gave him more pleasure when he felt her trying to

escape without success. She really has such fire in her. Yungite thought as he shifted his weight so that he freed his hands.

He gently swept his right hand through her hair before bringing it down to her side. His left hand glided over her cheek in a gentle caress. Yungite knew the others would get angry if he didn't let them get a chance, but enjoyed the time he had. He broke away, begrudgingly, as Kestra's eyes filled with

hate and she wiped her mouth. They could hear the other generals whistling.

"I have wanted to do that since I met you." Yungite whispered, pulling Kestra towards the other two generals.

"Sweet move." Hunter spoke approvingly. "Did you do that while you were her guard, also?"

"No, I didn't, Hunter. The Dark One wouldn't have liked it, and you know it." Yungite pushed Kestra towards Kentight while replying.

Kentight approached and tightly embraced Kestra, preventing her from moving her arms. The magnitude of Strailoch's plan hit her, causing her eyes to widen. He was aware of her unresolved heartbreak from Scyfire, and now he intended to shatter her spirit entirely. Kestra was at a loss for what

to do.

'Singina.' She heard. 'Do not give in to fear. Clear your mind. Remember who you are.' Kestra unlocked her mind, allowing some of the fear to dissipate. She would not give in. Even in this state, she was stronger than that. She was aware of it, and she intended to prove it.

"You three are the first ones I'm going to kill once I escape." Kestra's declaration brimmed with hatred as Hunter approached.

"Are you sure about that, sugar?" Hunter asked, lifting her head with his gloved hand. He exerted a subtle increase in pressure on his grip, forcing her to face him. He had a missing tooth on the right side and a few others that were cracked. "I don't believe you are the Liberator, like Strailoch has told us. You seem to be far too attractive for that than what I pictured." His thumb grazed her cheek, causing it to bleed. He couldn't help but grin when he watched her flinch. "As for you escaping, there is nowhere for

you to run." As Hunter smiled at her, the others couldn't help but chuckle. "I will tell you this, Kestra. I'm going to enjoy this to the fullness."

Kestra's heart pounded, and her breaths grew raspy. Hunter seemed to be aware as he moved his other hand to brush away a few strands of hair. She struggled against them, stopping when Kentight's arms tightened around her. Only when she stilled herself did he loosen his grip. She could see that Hunter found her attempt amusing.

"Finished?" Hunter asked calmly. Seeing she no longer fought, he continued. "Now, why don't you cooperate, Princess, and give me a little kiss?" He only saw her eyes widen before taking the opportunity. Taking his ungloved hand, he started caressing her face, enjoying the moment.

Kestra knew she had to do something, and fast. She struggled against Kentight's grasp without success. Knowing she couldn't escape, she quickly considered her next option. It was a dirty move, but better than nothing. Using her left leg, she kneed Hunter with full force. His groan echoed as she hit her mark.

Kestra concealed her amusement when she witnessed Hunter's agony. She knew they wouldn't disobey Strailoch's orders and inflict severe harm on her. As Hunter recovered, Kentight tightened his

grip on her. Anger burning in his eyes, he stood up and seized Kestra's jaw.

"You vixen." Hunter softly spoke once his voice returned. "Strailoch was right about you. Princess, understand that you have made a dangerous enemy out of me. Once we have the castle, you better hope to be under constant guard. You'll find me waiting in the shadows if not." Her attempts to free

herself annoyed him. He tightened his grip, forcing her to remain still. "Listen closely. If you do not wish a life of fear, there are ways to rectify your mistake. Search for them and pray you're not mistaken." He released her jaw and backed away from her. "If you can redeem yourself, I can be quite the gentleman."

Her body refused to budge, leaving Kestra rooted to the spot. She could feel Kentight's hold around her chest being released. Her body trembled as his hands touched her arms.

"You alright, baby?" Kentight asked. He eased his hands to her shoulders, giving them a massage."You seem a little tense." His remark elicited chuckles from Hunter and Yungite. "Maybe if Strailoch lets

you live, he will let you and I settle down together." Kentight began guiding her away from the rest, further into the woods

"I refuse to marry any filthy, horrible Morvaie." Kestra tried to shake off his hands while giving a sharp retort.

"Were you always this unfriendly?" Kentight responded with mockery. He released her shoulders and grasped her arm.

"That is none of your business." Her eyes moved frantically, searching for any chance. Anything to use to her advantage. Not seeing any, she tried to escape from his grasp.

"Tsk, tsk. You're quite the rebellious one, aren't you?" Kentight tightened his hold in response to the movement.

Understanding that Kentight had no intentions of stopping, she determined that her best option was to stall him. "What do you plan to do with me?" Anger permeated her voice.

Pausing momentarily, Kentight turned to her with a surprised expression. "What do you mean?"

"I don't believe you brought me here solely for a kiss. You could do that in front of your friends."vKestra said a quick prayer to the Guardians as Kentight's eyes searched for any changes in the forest.

'Please.' She spoke in her mind. 'Please help me escape. I must warn those I can.'

The reply she received differed from what she expected. 'They received a warning and

implemented counter defenses. Worry not about them. Your time to escape is not now.'

'If not now, then when? What will happen?'

'The time will be revealed to you. Be cautious not to anger this Morvaie. He is far more dangerous than others.'

'I will not give up.' Recognizing her opportunity, Kestra tried once again to free her arm.

Kentight noticed and shook his head. I don't think so. He contemplated silently before pulling her forward once more. "Are you offering to kiss me of your own accord?" With a chuckle, Kentight observed the expression of disgust on her face. "Didn't think so. Can't I take a pleasant stroll in the

woods with such a beauty like yourself?" He uttered caringly.

"It wouldn't stop you even if you couldn't." Kestra's hope was to stall Kentight again, even if only for a short time. She relentlessly looked for a way out.

"Now that hurts." Kentight's free hand rested on his heart. "I thought you would enjoy taking a pleasant stroll to a place that you know." He stopped her forcefully and stood behind her, changing his grip on her left shoulder. His gloved hand grazed her shoulder with a gentle touch. He smiled, ready for anything she might attempt.

Upon seeing their surroundings, Kestra gasped. Near the forest's edge, they could see Kneontide a mile away. She noticed the Elven archers dropping in the distance to avoid being spotted. She prayed

Kentight didn't see them. At first, she couldn't understand why they didn't attempt a rescue, but the Guardians' explanation shed light on the situation.

They were aware of the attack and had prepared. The element of surprise was their ally. They hoped to force the Morvaies to retreat and surrender. She was happy that Scyfire kept quiet about it with Strailoch, assuming he already knew.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Kentight said in awe, his eyes brightening. "I have so many memories of this place. The most recent, of course, is the night you escaped my grasp." But that won't happen again. He added only in his mind. Before he continued, he gave Kestra a moment to take in the scene before her.

"It's a shame that this will be the last opportunity to see it like this."

"What is that supposed to mean?" She retorted back.

"Princess, I mean that tomorrow is the day we take control. I think you're aware of the meaning."

Kentight softly stroked her right arm and leaned towards her neck, sending shivers down Kestra's back.He smiled before lowering his voice. "That means that we will be able to make fresh memories here.

More intimate memories."

"Not if I can help it." With great effort, Kestra wriggled out of Kentight's clutches and dashed towards the castle. Kentight wasted no time in grabbing her right leg and pulling her down before she could get away.

"Don't tell me you honestly thought you could escape that easily again." Pulling her back up, Kentight chuckled, keeping her arms restrained behind her. "Let's make an agreement. I won't tell the Dark One about this petty attempt if you promise to behave yourself till we get back."

Before Kestra objected, Kentight quickly pushed her back into the forest. He persisted in keeping her arms clasped behind her back. "Oh, I almost forgot to tell you amid all the excitement. I have a message from Strailoch. Timore thinks you deserve to have some information." Kentight started.

Kestra was about to protest when she stopped. 'Singina, listen carefully to what he says. Use it to your advantage.'

"First things first," Kentight continued. "Your people will become servants. Those who rebel will have the opportunity to reconsider. If they continue to be unreasonable, they will face death."

"Have you no compassion? Rebellion will ensue without a doubt." Kestra exclaimed. "I have seen it."

Kentight continued without acknowledging what she said. "You, however, are in luck. I heard you'll have the opportunity to live a life of freedom." He forced Kestra to stop as he leaned in and kissed her neck. She has such an aura about her. Forest, I believe. She's even a better prize than I initially

thought. Kentight thought, as he enjoyed every moment.

Kestra's attempt to escape pulled him out of his thoughts. Kentight broke the kiss and let out a chuckle."Maybe the Dark One would even let you and me settle down somewhere quiet. Just imagine it. The two of us alone. Nothing to bother us. Enjoying nothing but each other's company. I can picture it

now." Kentight whispered, his lips brushing against her ear. He rubbed his thumbs along her hands, making Kestra's skin crawl.

"I will never marry you, Kentight. I would rather die first." She retorted. She felt him pull away and took a breath of relief. This day needed to end.

"Aww, now that would be an awful shame. Your life would be so short and wouldn't be lived to the fullest. So many things you wouldn't get to enjoy." He exclaimed disappointedly as he forced Kestra

to walk again. "No matter." He shrugged his shoulders. "Your fate lies in another's hands, anyway."

Kestra didn't say another word as they approached the clearing. She saw the generals, who were napping, facing the path Kentight and Kestra took. How long were they gone? An hour? Three hours?

Time seemed all the same.

"You're probably talking about your own desires now. Why would…" Kestra said hastily before being abruptly interrupted.

"Fortunately for you, Kestra, he's not."

Kestra looked to see where the voice came from. When pushed ahead, she observed Strailoch leaning on a tree, examining his dagger. Kentight bowed quickly, causing her to do the same.

"I hope she lightened your spirit enough, Kentight." As Strailoch continued, he stored his dagger.

"More than you know, my king. You should have been there when Yungite planted one on her."Kentight replied, suppressing a laugh. He pushed Kestra forward.

"Is that so?" Strailoch grinned.

"Yes, sir."

"You can release her, Kentight. She isn't going anywhere." Strailoch kept a close eye on Kestra as he spoke.

Kestra stumbled slightly when she was abruptly shoved towards Strailoch. As she looked back, her anger rapidly shifted to fear. She witnessed a dangerous glimmer in Kentight's eyes. He had a wild look in his eyes.

"As much as I would love to stay and chat about what happened, I'm afraid that I have to take the Princess back to Drave." Strailoch stated, resting his hands on Kestra's shoulders. "Besides, we must

prepare for tomorrow."

Strailoch led her away. As they walked, they saw the army getting ready for the upcoming battle. They walked past the military, making their way to the area where Scyfire attempted to apologize once more. Towards the south, she saw Drave being guarded by two Morvaie Captains. She noticed his weak

smile and gave a small smile back. As she looked closer, she noticed they had disarmed Drave during the time she was gone. Strailoch forced Kestra to keep walking towards the east as she tried to get to Drave. Before pushing Kestra into the trees, he turned to face him.

"I will let you talk to your little girlfriend after I'm done with her Drave." Strailoch spoke

mockingly.

Kestra noticed Drave jump to his feet and started towards them. Grabbing his arms, the two Morvaies violently pushed him to the ground. Before he could recover, they pulled him back to the tree. She felt herself being pushed even deeper into the forest.

Despite Drave's pitiful effort, Strailoch knew it would ultimately be his undoing. Figuring they were far enough away, he released Kestra with a shove. He saw as she turned what she was planning. She wanted to run back towards Drave. He would not let her that easily. With a chuckle, he continued to

block her path.

Kestra was getting irritated. As Strailoch took a step forward, she felt herself take one back. She didn't know what he had planned and was in no mood to find out. She felt a hard object collide with her back and silently cursed herself. Before she could fully comprehend what happened, she felt pressure against her neck. He had her pinned with his arm.

"Seems that Hunter got a little carried away in his fun. I don't want you healing it, Princess. Leave it, so you have a reminder not to cross him in the future." Strailoch whispered, wiping away the blood on her cheek.

"Maybe it's because they don't get their orders from a low-rank captain." Kestra responded with sarcasm.

"Do you still believe that's all I am?" Strailoch couldn't help but laugh. "You've got much to learn. It will be an honor to teach you. We will have to save that for later. Let's turn to the discussion at hand. What I told Kentight was true, Princess. I am going to let you live. You've been such a helpful little elf

that I've decided that you could become my wife. As you know, I already had the pleasure of experiencing an elf as a wife once before." Strailoch spoke calmly.

Repulsed, Kestra attempted to escape from Strailoch's hold. It earned her nothing but his arm pressing harder against her windpipe. "Never." She choked out.

'You little Brat.' A dark voice hissed around them. 'You think you have got this all figured out? The Guardians will fall, and you will suffer a fate worse than death.'

Kestra cringed at the voice. She heard it before, and now she knew who it was.

"Timore!" Kestra whispered before Strailoch released his grasp. Kestra's knees went weak and collapsed. Feeling a slight burn in her windpipe, she coughed.

"So you finally heard Timore, did you?" Strailoch grinned as darkness formed around him. "He wishes to speak more to you."

***

Kestra gasped as she tried to make sense of what was happening. Everything around her started disappearing into the darkness. There was nothing but shadows in distinct tones. As her eyes adjusted, she saw she was in a Throne Room of some sort. Two figures were before her. She recognized Strailoch. The other was sitting on the throne. As he rose, Kestra trembled slightly.

She had only heard about him in stories. He controlled the shadows. His very name spread fear across the land.

It was he that spoke. "Welcome to my Kingdom, Princess. I have to say it surprised me you accepted my invitation. You always seemed to have other priorities before now."

"Not that you gave me a choice." Despite her lack of confidence, Kestra spat with a brave voice.

"You know who I am, but yet I don't think we have met." He brushed off her words and carried on.

Kestra slowly stood. She took a deep, calming breath before continuing. "One doesn't need to meet you to know who you are, Genfie."

"You have a sharp tongue, young one." He hissed. The sound of his guardian's name made him flinch. "You ought to learn how to control it." Raising his hand, a stream of darkness spread from his fingertips. A form started taking the shape of a serpent. Seeing her backing away from it, he continued.

"I will teach you your place."

Kestra continued to move away from the snake, as it continued to approach. "What in the name of the Guardians is this thing?" Kestra whispered.

"Just a small taste of my power, Liberator." Timore answered with a smile. "Darkness is all around me. Fear was born from my actions. I control the hidden shadows that lie within the light."

Strailoch, who remained quiet up till now, spoke. "Master. Why don't we spare the brat?" He asked as he stepped closer to Timore.

"What are you suggesting? She needs to learn her place and respect to the future king of the land."

"I am fully aware of that." Strailoch lowered his voice so that Kestra wouldn't hear. "However, killing her now would be such a waste. The power you sensed lies within her. Two of my generals have experienced a taste of it. They told me themselves about her fire. You know as well as I what that

means. She carries the power that the Guardians have bestowed upon her. If we can turn her or at least steal it, they would permanently lose it. She could be a splendid instrument in your hands."

The snake caught up to Kestra and slowly coiled itself around her ankles. As it did so, she felt despair and fear come over her. Hope was slowing fading away as she struggled to cling to it. No! I will

not go this way. Kestra thought. Digging deep within herself, she found a light. Quickly, she reached out her hand to grab the serpent, only to find nothing. As she looked down to where it once was, she found

a rope. "What in the…" Kestra whispered.

Before she could finish, her feet slid from under her. She was being dragged back towards the two.

Looking up, she saw Timore reeling her back. Once she was right in front of him, her binds returned to mist. Thinking back to Timore's words, fear returned.

"You now see a part of my power. You cannot escape the shadows."

"Nice trick. Too bad you can only control it here." Kestra spat. She was playing a dangerous game, but it was too late to back out now. "Instead of hiding, why don't you reveal your true self to me?" She felt herself bite her tongue. The words were unintentionally spoken.

Timore laughed. "You want me to reveal myself? You foolish girl. None have ever looked upon my true form without their spirits dying. However…" He paused before continuing, "if you have as much

power as people say, you will survive."

The temperature dropped rapidly as the shadows retreated from Timore. Kestra braced herself for what was happening, despite the cold. She raised her eyes, shocked. Timore had fire for eyes that raged with ferocity. His skin was dark as the new moon. As she looked closer, she didn't see a single hair anywhere on him. His ears pointed, then curled inward at the

tip. When he smiled, she saw his fangs. But what frightened her the most was what was on his back.

Kestra could only think of them as small spikes that lined his spine. As she looked closer, she saw a type of mark. A small golden ball on the tip of the center spike. It was not larger than a droplet of ink. Is that

possibly a weak spot? Kestra thought. Before she pondered it further, she was suddenly snapped out of her thoughts.

"I see you are determined as ever. I'm surprised." Timore smirked as darkness again formed around him.

"I think there is something you don't want others to see," Kestra replied. "A little orb."

Despite the shock, Timore quickly recovered. He roared in frustration. "You miserable brat. How could you see that?"

"Oh, I guess it's something I should keep in mind."

"You're too smart for your own good, Kestra. I should kill you now, put you out of your misery." Timore hissed as he grasped her shoulders, forcing her to stand. His hands felt like ice, with nails as so harp as daggers. "However, I have something worse in mind for you. You will no longer be the

Liberator, but my slave." Taking one of his nails, he slowly followed the outline of her birthmark. As he did so, light erupted from it. A powerful gust of wind sent everyone sprawling.

Timore was the first to recover. "What trickery is this? How do you have power here?" Timore and Strailoch got to their feet, with Timore hissing. His gaze shifted from Strailoch to Kestra. Drawing his sword, Strailoch nodded in agreement.

Kestra felt weak. She mustered up what little strength she had to turn onto her back. She squinted her eyes. The pure light faded slightly. Within, she saw a figure dressed in crystal armor with a sword that seemed to be made of the elements. The double edge blade glowed red. The hilt was brown as

freshly tilled earth. Sapphires and emeralds lined the handle. The light blinded her enough that she couldn't make out the face.

"Singina." The figure called gently to her as Kestra struggled to stand. "Fear can be an ally, if only you hold on to hope to face it. I am here to deliver a message. The time is soon approaching when you must make a choice. Surrender to your fate or take control of it."

Timore hissed again at the figure. "Strailoch. We must separate Kestra from Lum. How she came to my realm is uncertain."

Lum turned her attention to Timore. "You know as well as we do you cannot change what has been written," Lum said. "Neither can change the outcome until the prophecy has been completed. Both powers must awaken."

"And so they shall, Lum. Yet, I will not allow hers to awaken until she is mine."

"Kestra will not fail in her duty. By her hand, you will be destroyed. She will repel your power from this land."

"Enough foolishness." Strailoch replied. Lum's sword, engulfed in flames, prevented him from reaching Kestra.

"You remember not Strailoch, what caused your mark," Lum continued in her calm voice. Lowering her sword, she continued. "We marked you. Deceived. Hatred. Feared. We marked you after you sold your soul to the Darkness."

Strailoch laughed. "I may have sold my soul, but how is that different from you? Your Liberator had no choice. She was marked since the day she was born. Tell me how that's fair to her."

"My Servant speaks the truth." Timore whispered as he appeared behind Kestra. "You had no choice. You were born into it, just as you were born into royalty. It isn't what you chose. However, I will give you a choice."

Kestra didn't know what to think. Two parts were fighting inside her. One was light, the other darkness. She couldn't tell what her heart was telling her.

Lum was aware of her struggle. "Singina. Listen to your spirit. It knows what the truth is. Your spirit accepted the call long before now. You must find the strength the lies within yourself."

Growling, Timore placed his arm firmly around Kestra's neck. In an instant, he recognized a familiar presence. She couldn't be his. If it was true, a new plan would need to be put into action. He would wait until he had proof before dealing with it. Looking up, he glared at Lum, fading back into the darkness. He started forming a dagger.

"Leave and tell her that my offer still stands. She can be by my side. If she does, I will stop right now. If she doesn't, I will destroy her Liberator, and she will be mine in her place." He hissed before throwing the blade.

Lum deflected the dagger with ease. She lifted her sword, pointing it towards Kestra. A red light shot out from the tip towards her. "Look past the fear to find your path." Lum whispered before turning back to Timore. "You already know the answer." She took one last look at Kestra before disappearing.

"Curse those divine beings." Timore whispered before diverting his attention to Kestra. Her courage impressed him. She reminded him of Aeona. "Now, let's get rid of what you weren't supposed to see."

"I don't think so." Kestra whispered back, fighting to get loose.

With a smile, Timore gently placed his fingers on Kestra's temples. That evil instilled fear in her to the very core. Rather than feeling the icy cold she thought she would, she sensed a comforting warmth.

Considering Lum's farewell, she realized a barrier had been implemented to prevent Timore from succeeding. It was her choice to give in or fight it.

"That should take care of that." Timore growled. He turned her around and wrapped his hand around her throat. "Lum might have helped you this time," Timore warned her, "but next time you will not be so lucky.

Kestra had to resist the urge to struggle against him. She lifted her gaze slowly, meeting his eyes with determination.

"Hmmm. Your determination is remarkable. How I would like to squeeze that right out of you." He gently pressed his fingers against her throat. "However, we have more pressing things to take care of."

After a time of silence, Timore spoke again. "Strailoch. Take the brat back to her world. We will continue with the plan. Break her spirit by marrying her to a Morvaie. And make sure she knows about all the

traditions that come with it."

"What?" Kestra shouted back. "I will not."

Strailoch ignored her as he approached once again.

"Enjoy yourself, Kestra." Timore spoke mockingly before sending them back. "I'll visit again."