Kestrel's Last Journals (30)

Redpath and myself led my Brothers and Sister toward the hall Sister Pestilence had arranged for us. Annianka wished to join us but was rebuked by being told it is for our sacred family only. I did assure her that nothing diplomatic or political would be discussed during this private meal. She relented with one last feeble attempt by mentioning how it is impolite excluding their sister from this family event. She was still grumbling under her breath as Miss Hope escorted her away. I allowed the others to enter before me and did not prevent young Kestrel being pulled into the room. We six took places evenly separated along the curving outer wall of this circular room. One palm from each touched the wall as shimmering starlight coated the walls from where we touched it. Redpath had busied himself to fill the glasses getting a few odd glances but none complained of his presence among us. Once the walls were sealed with our cosmic wards, we took our seat around the ring shaped table. A pale manifestation of the Ley’ä’Luna’s pillar of light appeared at the center of the room within the ringed table. Young Kestrel stood behind the right side of my chair ready to serve wine or bring replacement platter from the edge heated table.

We each in turned swore the oath to the pillar of light in the original first language and concluded it in unison binding us to each other and to the first primordial race that allowed us to exist. Sealed away from prying eyes, ears, and minds and with our oaths renewed before the echoed light of the Ley’ä’Luna’s manifestation, we six allowed ourselves to truly relax while all the others looked towards my feline Squire.

“One must serve and we cannot accept the other Squires within this hall in Brother Order’s domain.” Famine informed them. A ring agreeing nods. They still glanced at him from time to time as he stood by my shoulder perfectly straight and silent in his golden touched knightly armor. A soft chuckled escaped me at this minor worry among my selected family.

“This will be the last time we can gather like this.” I announced solemnly. “It is best we revel in our own way in our own skin.” I continued. I let my human form drift into my true form on liquid starry night skies with my my stardust wings at my back. With a smile, they each slipped into a similar appearance in the form of the first five races that existed. The three pairs of starlight wings stretched out of our backs to manifest our familial bonds we had made over the multiple trillion millenniums we have existed for. “We are here to be together one last time before the great darkness engulfs the light jewel of Atlantis.” I concluded. I mild murmur ran around the table but none made remarks.

Food moved from the platters to our plates to disappear into us without being physically touched. The tongues we spoke were of the six first races and that of the primordial race. Redpath did not act as if he understood our words but would move around the room when needed to replace platters and refill the tall glasses we drank from that day. I knew he understood that what he was allowed to witness was not to be spoken about with others beyond these walls. I heard the hiss from Sister Chaos before she spoke.

“I must ask that he understands our words!” she retorted in Atlantian. “We know that your time is short, Brother Order, and I believe your replacement deserves to know the role he will play as our future leader.” she added in a deep hiss. I sighed under my breath but allowed them to decide without agreeing.

“I will go only at my proper time.” I told them softly. The echoing qualities of our voices filled the room with odd resonance. “I will agree for him to hear and understand our words my little Sister, if we all agree.” I offered to them. A smile and nod from each came around the table from Chaos at my left to War at my right. I chuckled as I nodded my agreement. A sparkling earpiece clipped onto the feline’s ear without harming him. “He shall hear and understand our words while within this hall with us.” I added.

“Thank you, sir.” young Kestrel whispered to me.

“We are founded to protect and rally the Fallen Ones, you call humans, until they face the final great darkness.” War stated calmly. It was a simplified version of our oaths but informed him properly.

“We have existed since long before Earth was formed being from the first five races.” Famine explained. “We five were chosen by the Lights of Life and through their Envoy Brother Order, for this purpose.” he added.

“The races did not start existing until Universe, beloved mother of Genin, sacrificed herself to let her blood flow and bring all things in existence from the first to the last race.” Pestilence announced softly.

“His Race bears only two beings, Genin and his half-sister Genia, the children born from Universe.” Death stated. “He is fathered by the Void, while Genia was born from an act of violence.” he added more quietly.

“We are to rally six armies to defeat the great darkness in the far future if Atlantis survives the dark knot it faces.” Chaos reported calmly. “We stand as Brothers and Sisters of the Light of the Ley’ä’Luna.” she added.

“All of us have sacrificed everything about our pasts to be reborn in this plane as defenders of the human race.” I said as Order. “Each have lost much along the way here even their own original bodies to stand together until it is done.” I concluded. They nodded as one but Chaos could not leave it end this easily.

“Some have sacrifice their true bounded pair to stand her with us.” she commented as her spiraling eyes turned towards me. “Order lost his life partner to a very evil monster that is still free.” she explained softly. My glare at her was being ignored by all five of them. “The lost had removed true laughter and happiness from him for so very long.” she added. Her tears were invisible but I could feel them as easily as I felt my own from her words.

“His wife stood by his side in all his actions as Order or Genin.” War began.

“She was willing to sacrifice her existence for him even if she was considered evil.” Famine continued.

“She died to save him from the evil released upon all existence.” Pestilence added in.

“”Know that this enemy is the enemy of all of us.” Death continued.

“He is all of us and without him, we are nothing.” Chaos concluded this tale and their personal vow to me.

“Enough of a history lesson.” I crowed in the room. “We have more important things to discuss than my darkest history.”

“True!” Famine interjected.

“What have you foreseen for us to do?” War returned calmly.

“You and Death shall stand against the hordes of Lemuria trying to run.” I answered bluntly. “Chaos will be igniting the crystals to cause a chain reaction destroying all of them.” I continued. “With luck or Lockey’s trickery, part of your essence will be trapped outside this plane until the worse of the future darkness has moved upon us, Brothers War and Death.” I concluded.

“As you order and warn us, eldest one.” War replied for the three of them.

“And of us three?” Famine asked.

“You will attempt to save many who should die because of their ships will be sucked down with Atlantis.” I replied quickly. “Pestilence will be doing the same but this will all happen before the battle hidden by Atlantis sinking.” I continued calmly. “Your survival from a rebirth will only be known by the winner of that battle.” I explained to them. They waited patiently as I looked over each of them. “As for myself, it is unsure but I will be here in one facet or another facing she who wishes to destroy Atlantis.” I concluded. I did not wish to tell them that I will be gone allowing Redpath to kill Genia.

“And my place?” my Squire asked softly. The eyes of the five shifted to him and I felt the pride this simple question caused them. My silence must have been too long for him. “I must know where I must be if not at your side.” he growled at me. His back was straightening as his face became serious with a hint of a snarl. “They have allowed me to stand here seeing all of you as you truly are, so I deserve to know my place!” His growl vibrated the room sparking at the cosmic wards. All eyes grew wider as he stood at his full height without fear nor worry upon him.

“You will stand between the enemy of Atlantis and the enemy of the world.” I told him without looking at him. “If you select wrong, none of them will be able to stand with you against the final darkness that will be upon you within the last days.” I warned him.

“I pray the Light guides your claws to the right target.” War chuckled softly.

“He will choose the one being I cannot face without dying.” I retorted. Their wide eyes now targeted me as they realized who he would face. “He already knows which must die without me, but after it will be his decision on what comes next.” I concluded. In unison, a slow nod to me and then to Kestrel showing they accepted my words.

I fell in silent contemplation while still chatting softly with my family. Redpath toured the room having his own discussions while we would, in turn, tell tales of our past that only here I can remember all of it freely. It was a much quieter celebration than in the Royal Court’s chaotic festival. I was happy like before when Elyria sat at my right through many gatherings like this one. A prayed to the Light that the sub-atoms of my destroyed soul may find hers in the nothingness at the edge of the Void’s realm. It was far passed the high moon when we finally left this place in our human skin once more. Cor, Aurora, and Twin went with their selected Guards to return to their residence while in Atlantis. Chichi offered to escort Sarabea back to the ship since she had no residence in Atlantis to stay during this short visit. Young Kestrel marched at my side as we moved slowly in silence along the our pathway home.

“Why was I selected as your Squire?” he asked softly in a near purring whisper to me.

“Because you would never allow me to enter that room alone.” I started using the most simplistic reason. “If you would have attempted to follow me in, you would have died because of the wards erected upon the place.” I continued easily. “I cannot risk losing any of you but you are the one most likely to go against my orders in the name of honor.” I concluded to him. He shock his head slowly.

“They knew I was your Squire.” he returned. “That is not why you asked this of me other than how limited your time here remains.” he told me. “Why was I the one you asked to be your Squire?” he concluded. We had stopped walking to face each other with hard faces.

“Sert has the heart but not the will to walk my path.” I began softly. “Meli has a protective nature but does not have the drive to follow my path.” I continued calmly. “Cole has his cunning but is too easily swayed from the path he must walk to follow mine.” I explained slowly. “This leave you with the heart, kindness, and cunning plus the honor to follow in my footprints as my Squire and replacement.” I concluded.

“I do not fully believe your words but will follow your path without asking to know more.” Redpath nodded to me. Our walk was still at a slow place. Sert, Meli, and Cole stood in the foyer waiting impatiently for our return. Worry lined their faces as hey stared at me upon my return with Redpath. The emotions poured out of them as their worries came out in a mix of anger and frustration.

“You have been doing everything to do the least possible lately.” Sert commented.

“You have been weakening since you saved that child, haven’t you?” Meli snapped at me.

“You have been acting very odd and more silent lately, sir.” Cole stated quietly.

“Do not tell us that we are over reacting due to over protectiveness.” Meli warned me.

“Every time you leave, we expect Redpath returning with word that you have been sent to Healers’ Halls because you collapsed.” Sert chimes in harshly.

“We have found nothing that could return your health before you have died.” Cole added grumbling.

Young Kestrel looked at them in silence as he stood by my side. He had accepted what I was placing upon his shoulders and was not going to interfere while I still stood by him. Once I was gone, he would lie convincingly and have them continue along the path they needed to follow. I still felt bad placing this upon his young shoulders but he has proven himself many times over being the me that first floated out into the spreading blood Universe to meet the first race being born. He was me as I walked the millenniums with my new Brothers and Sisters as well as Elyria at me side when my heart and spirit was whole.

“Yes, I have been avoiding many thing and held back my strengths and abilities for what I have foreseen coming.” I told them calmly. I smiled shyly at them with a shrug. “Please understand that much may come in the near future that will force me to extend myself nearly as much as I did saving that child.” I explained to them. “If I am to walk away alive from this, I must channel all my strength internally until that time.” I concluded.

“This is why I have been at his side to allow us a chance to prevent him needing to waste power on things which we can do for him.” Redpath remarked to them. He looked at his feet with a yowl. “I am worried but we must trust that he is doing what is best for all of us and Atlantis.” he added softer. He looked up at them with tear soaking the fur on his cheeks.

And this was why the others accepted him as my Squire. This was why he did not need to explain his presence in the seal hall. This was the reason that the Ley’ä’Luna chose him to be my replacement in all things. He was as tenacious, honorable, resourceful, cunning, and empathetic naturally as I had been beyond my role I played in this body. Even Annianka. whom I could love, did not know me as well as Repath did. He was truly the perfect copy of the original Genin. The Brothers and Sisters of Light would follow him feeling they are following my own orders without questions because they would see the true “Brother Order” standing with them.

My trio of worrying friends did not want to let this drop seeing my excuse as not good enough for them. Redpath claimed an early meeting with the Council allowing me to excuse myself from their midst. I ignored them as they ignored my excuse to them to retire to my private room. I was needed the next morning to stand withing the Council as Lemuria signed the treatise that would start solving all the conflicts between Atlantis and Lemuria. My sleep was easy as my body’s exhaustion claimed me. Morning had me in the foyer with Cole and young Kestrel readying to go meet my Brothers at the Council Chambers for dawn. The walk was in silence in the early predawn light along the empty streets until we met Cor and Twin at the doors of the Council Chambers’ central hall.

“Do you think we will have any problems with this.” Cor asked as greeting.

“Speak quickly and clearly.” I replied. “Do not add any doubts or negative possibilities of anything going wrong.” I continued calmly. “And smile like we all did last night.” I concluded with a wink to them. Both Brothers grinned broadly at my words.

“Let us complete this part so we shall be in place for the next act of this play.” Twin remarked with a smile. Cole and Redpath nodded to us as we entered the Council Chamber to face the them all together. This session took many hours but we were exiting with triumphant smiles on our face. Sanctions and reporting any group trying to barter or sell the Lemurian crystals to Atlantis as a whole had pushed the Council into agreeing to this treaty with Lemuria. Cole face beamed with happiness as I sensed he believed the knot had been cut away from Atlantis’ future. Young Kestrel hide his knowledge by looking as pleased as Cole including his pleased purring. Cole returned to give the good news to Sert and Meli over breakfast while my Brothers, Redpath, and myself head to the harbor to get the Peace Ambassador on their way on the Leviathan.

The only minor delay was for Scarabea to dismount to hug me and place one last kiss on my cheek. I locked arms with each of my Brothers offering them good parting and luck. Twin did whisper to me that he will request my cousin, Lord Death, to stand with me at my appointed time to give me one more hand leading my into nothingness. My three family saluted me receiving a crisp Atlantian salute as reply. All this happens before the eyes of the Guard Captains who were wordless at this sight. The Leviathan did not jump this time to silently glide on the waters through the protective reefs before actually jumping across the oceans to Lemuria.

I turned still smiling before Redpath and myself returned home. I request the help of my household to carry all my musical instruments to the garden to give them a day full of music and leisure. Weeks passed while I waited for the assigned moment of my death and avoided visiting Annianka. She would need to judge who should be saved, Atlantis or herself. Most of this time was spent sitting idly in the garden watching the clouds and listening to the songbirds. The word finally arrived that I had been waiting for. A massive fleet of ships flying the emblems of Lemuria was seen on the horizon targeting Atlantis. The multiple rumors grew quickly spreading across Atlantis like a windblown wildfire.

In my mind, I saw Cor and Twin standing upon the docks blocking the Lemurians from boarding vessels to escape the shaking city. The wave of distortion from the disintegrating of Lemurian crystals washed toward the city as it shattered and sunk under the ocean waves and their ship blinking out of existence. I was then upon the deck of the Leviathan as Lockey activated a capture ray to pull the Brothers to the ship from the docks. The new modifications failed as the rift drive goes into overload creation a spacial and temporal rift which sucks up the ship with part of the Brothers being caught with the ship. I could not detect where they ended but it was no long upon this plane of reality. I shuddered at my impotence at saving them. My replacement could not help pull them back until the far flung future. The Brothers’ souls would be reborn but would always be missing a part of themselves until the Leviathan returned to our world.

And the rumors now spoke of the Lemurian fleet retreating but all of this was a lie staged by humans that could not trust Lemuria would exist peacefully in this world. Between the humans and something within Atlantis forced the hands of the island’s military. They could have easily used other weapons to sink the fleet without risking harm to Lemuria. Just another sign of how tightly the thing in the Heartstone controlled Atlantis through our Holy Queen. The path for Genia’s bomb was set in motion for her evil plans. I remained in my garden waiting for what I knew would happen next from all the information young Kestrel carried to me.

Annianka would be imprisoned over her actions and the growing insanity within her speeches of late. I would and could do nothing to protect her, yet. I would make my offer and then she will decide what happens afterwards. I would either be taking her and her sister shards away from here or I will be simply hiding away to transfer myself into Redpath to expire. Either way, young Kestrel will take up the fight and face off with Genia in my place.

The next morning word was received that the Royal and Council Guards worked together to take the Holy Queen into custody peacefully. She had screamed only about this being a plot from the Council to dispose of her but showed no violence as they escorted her to her tower turned prison again. Unfortunately, the logs of the Council, the nobles, and multiple witnesses reported her screaming for the corrupted blood of Lemuria be removed permanently from existence. I gave her two days of solitude before I finally went to visit her this last time. I was the only person they would allow entry to her tower cell other than for Miss Hope, now her warden. I walked up to her wordlessly to deposit the jewellery box into her hand. She looked at me confused as she opens the box. She pulls out the ring and examines it closely for a moment before her eyes returned to mine.

“I cannot marry you, my sweet one.” she replied in a lilting voice. Her eyes were clouded and unfocused. “I already have a husband.” she added with a misaligned smile.

“The king means nothing to you or Atlantis, Annianka.” I returned patiently, like dealing with a child.

“It is not the farce of a King I speak of.” she returned harshly with a dreamy smile. “I speak of my husband Retrane.” she added with a sour choking giggle.

Hearing that name filled me with rage. This was the one that had raped my mother to father Genia and was destroyed beyond existence as he attempted escaping the Void’s rage by stepping into the pillar of light. Instead of merging with the Light, black flames consumed every atoms of its body, mind, and spirit. She dropped the ring into my hand without the box. I let it drop to the ground in her garden where we met. It sunk directly into the earth as the dragons ephemeral forms began circulating Atlantis under the level of the sea. I took a step back from her.

“Goodbye...” I whispered to her. The portal that open at my back was a swirling mass of black and purple tentacles that shot out to wrap tightly around my body. To her and Miss Hope’s eyes, I was yanked violently back into the swirling mass before the portal collapsed.

“What have you done?” Miss Hope screamed as tears fell from her eyes. “You have forced the Ones that have graced us with his presence to pull him away.” she exclaimed shocked and angry at her.

“I am a married woman.” she replied condescending. Her smile was bright and joyous. “He is such a brainless asshole asking for my hand now.” she added as a higher pitch evil laugh flowed from her mouth. Miss Hope rushed from the tower to her private chamber to find me laying half-alive and half-conscious in her bed. My breath was shallow and my skin paled to bone grayish white from using a skill learned from my departed wife to portal me to this secured location. I barely knew she was their in my dizzy detached state while part of me floated in the Ley’ä’Luna’s Temple of Light.

“Redpath!’ I called out. “Bring him quickly.” I added before slipping deeper into the Temple of Light.

“As you will it, Lord Kestrel.” she stated. She rushed to the street find Kestrel already rushing towards her.

“He has called me.” the panther stated. She instantly turned and lead him to her chambers.

No announcement was needed as when they entered, she saw the Temple of Light in which young Kestrel rushed to stand opposite of my position. The Ley’ä’Luna spoke clearly to Redpath and myself while Miss Hope covered her ears from the loud buzzing of thousands locusts filled the space around us.

“The only way for him to take your place is to be you in every way possible.” it told us in a single voice. “Your power and abilities mean nothing without the memories and knowledge that fuels and controls it.” it continued in unison. “Give everything you are and we will accept him as we accepted you, Great Lord Genin.” it concluded with blunt finality. I took one last look at the other Kestrel and together we nodded. Tendrils of light shot out to touch both of us as a serenade of notes from a voice we both knew too well. As darkness took me, Lord Death sung my swan song and I was no more.

Redpath's Journals: Revelry of Mortals and Immortals (31)

The brother flew down the gangplank to tackle Kestrel to the dock. The mass of legs, arms, and heads was laughing with joy I had not seen upon Kestrel in my time within his household. It was the mirthful merriment of siblings reuniting while still very young children. I held back the urge to help or join them while watching the young Egyptian woman daintily walked down the plank towards the mess of writhing bodies.

“Meakita?” she whispered hesitantly as she curtsied to him.

“You should wait until I get these two off me before greeting me, little Sister.” he exhaled between chuckles. He finally disengaged himself from his Brothers and to his feet to give her a quick bow. “Lady Scarabea of the Sands.” he announced to us as a greeting to her. The fluid flowing second bow was of an Egyptian style. I barely had a chance to notices the sudden mischievous sparkle in her eyes before she launched herself at Kestrel. Cor and Twin were blocking his knees making it easy for him to be back on his back on the dock. Their laughter rushed around from them as they rolled and twisted on the wooden dock like playful children and not noble figures of their lands.

The shock and relief on my three companions had me relaxing while the Guards, including their Captains, looked dumbfounded at this spectacle of childish mirth. I waited until they all were laughing merrily before I offered my hand to assist Kestrel to his feet. I then held a hand to Lady Scarabea to help her as well. The Brothers had assisted each other while still laughing at the insanity they had caused within minutes of their arrival. The Egyptian woman curtsied to me once standing again followed by the odd action of pressing her cheek against my armored chest. A whispered thanks glided from her before she finally straightened.

Cor, Kestrel and Twin walked in our lead with their Guards drifting at their sides and along our sides. I followed with Lady Scarabea grasping my elbow to select me as her walking partner. She did not look at me, simply walked at my pace with a gentle touch on my furry forearm with her elbow wrapped behind mine. Sert, Meli, and Cole followed in the same silence we held allowing Kestrel and his Brothers to banter during the walk. Listening mostly to the Brothers and Kestrel had me nearly missing the soft whisper from Lady Scarabea.

“Is he always been this odd?” she whispered in a breathe. I knew not even the Captains would hear her words meant just for me. My purring hide my reply.

“Lord Kestrel has been changing lately.” I admitted under my purring. “I know what is coming but he will explain it to you, his Sister Chaos.” I added without showing I had spoken. Her grip tightened on my arm for a moment before relaxing.

“I thank you for your service, Squire of Order.” she stated before returning to silence.

I did not stiffen being named outright by one of them by a title I had only acquired lately. I remember Chichi’s words regarding me being seen as an oddity and his shocked sounding reaction to learning I was Kestrel’s Squire. All these thoughts mixed with the multitude of others in the back of my mind to simmer away until I could truly focus on them. Our greeting at the Royal Court screamed of something more festive and merrymaking than the normal solemness of the Royals.

The Queen sat on her throne with a large mug in her hand raising it at a cheered greeting slammed into us from the many nobles present. The King’s absent was easily overlooked as the small groups of nobles floated around the large room with flagons in hand while pages ran pitcher with drinks for them. The queen hailed us a second time to a taste of Valhalla upon Migard’s jewel. I could feel the odd tension in the Brothers, Kestrel, and Scarabea as we stepped cautiously forward into this.

“A slice of home away from home!” the Queen called loudly in the room. A ring of cheers answered her. “Enter and be merry!” she ordered. She stood with mug held high towards us. A shriek of laughter escaped the Brothers as they rushed at her. They had barely reached the dais when the Queen, in some childish urge, vaulted at them to toppled both to the marble floor. A short but, as laughter filled, moment as the four had shared on the docks. The nobles laughed and cheered on their Queen as she acted silly and playful. Scarabea remained by my side and Kestrel side-stepped to place himself upon her other side. She seemed so small standing between us but I purred happily and noticed the matching smile on Kestrel’s face.

“It is always good to see you smile Brother Order.” she whispered allowing my purring to conceal her words. “It has been a very long time since I have seen you smile in earnest.” she stated softly.

“Lord Kestrel smiles and laughs often since he has been on Atlantis.” I remarked. I shrugged to show my words had no importance but it earned me her turning to look up at me. “When he does not need to crush threats towards Atlantis and the world.” I concluded. I felt the corner of my lips twitching up into a smirk.

“I am sure the grin they receive is a very vicious smile when doing so.” she returned, giggling.

“Only when they truly deserve to see his full vengeance.” I replied letting my smirk show fully. I turned to look above her head towards Kestrel. “You should join in the festivities, sir.” I suggested. A tilt of my head towards the floating crowd showed what I referred to directly.

“This celebration is for my two Brothers and not for our Sister or myself.” he answered softly. I noted how he did not see the Queen and her echoes as his sisters. “It is why we two stand here removed from it while enjoying the youthful performance.” he added to me, chuckling deeply. His chuckle did not hide the soft tinkling giggle from Scarabea. “You are right about how long it has been since you last saw me smiling.” he told her.

“What has happened to you to regain this shine in your eyes?” she countered slowly.

“My answer would be the Holy Queen Annianka.” I purred out turning it into a vibrating teasing chuckle.

“She is of your age category which few can claim except...Genia.” she retorted. The hatred she placed in her voice stating that name had my hair on my spine rising as I held back a growl. “Any words on where that psychopath of a half-sister has been hiding, Great Lord Genin?” Scarabea continued with a growl in her voice that had mine sounding to hide it. A soft glance and my gentle hand upon her shoulder had her calming while the snarling set of her mouth returned to a pleasant smile. I had in part forgotten she still held onto my forearm until the tension released from her grip.

“All I know is that her little walking bomb is in place on Atlantis.” Kestrel replied. “She will show when it goes off to hide her interference by destroying the island.” he continued. I saw the snarl on Kestrel’s face and felt the anger within him that dwarfed the hatred I felt from Scarabea. It was gone the next moment as I watched his face. Our focus returned to the open floor where tales of tricks upon the deities of Asgard mostly targeted at Loki were being told to the amazement of the nobles. The shocked gasps, upon realizing how cunning their Holy Queen truly was, were mixed with laughter. She explained it as just her childish whims that she had mostly outgrew with adulthood. No business nor politics were discussed as this turned into true revelry around the trickster Brothers. The last shafts of light disappeared from the tips of the highest spires of Atlantis before this celebration was ended. We waited until all the nobles had exited and left with their small retinue of private Guards.

Using the same marching order, we escorted Cor, Twin, and Scarabea to the hall that Nightingale had prepared and Chichi had loaded with the food for their meal. Miss Hope and the Queen followed but were firmly told she could not join them. I barely noticed how Scarabea pulling me along side her into the circular great room. I missed the rest of the conversation between Kestrel and the Queen as the others took places equally separated along the inner wall. I stood where I had been left by the door waiting for Kestrel to enter and dismiss me. He entered, gazed at me with a smile, and turned towards the closed door. I saw and felt the sudden silence falling upon us as they sealed the chamber closed from outsider. I turned and started filled their glasses since I was now given permission to be here.

I did get curious glances from Nightingale, Cor, and Twin. Chichi shrugged at my presence and Scarabea smiled gently at me when our eyes met. Kestrel said nothing as they sat around the ring table. His back was towards the only door as I moved to stand behind his right shoulder. A pale version of the pillar of light formed in the middle of the ring formed by the tables. I quickly realized no servers where present meaning part of my duties would to serve them. The each spoke to the pillar of light and concluded this in a languages that I did not understand but felt that I should know. With all this done, all eyes had returned to me.

“One must serve and we cannot accept the other Squires within this hall in Brother Order’s domain.” Chichi replied before anyone could ask. Slowly, starting with Scarabea at Kestrel’s left, nods came around the table. I stood in my knightly armor that hinted to a golden alloying making it reflect golden arches from the central pillar of white light. A soft chuckle rolled from Kestrel as he looked at the faces around the table.

“This will be the last time we can gather like this.” Kestrel told them. “It is best we reveal in our own way in our own skin.” he stated with a hint of a smirk. I had seen his other form but now I was witnessing all their true form. Scenes of the night sky filled each of them as their form shifted to what they must truly be.

Cor, now War, appeared like a heavily set human of a taller height than Atlantians, covered in patches of blazing red sun like armor over liquid black skin of empty spaces with fiery star filled wings. A blazing giant sword, matching his armor, sat diagonally across his back without interfering with his 3 sets of wings.

Chichi, Famine, appearance shifted in size and formed to be a dragon-like creature filled with pulsing bluish-green stars in the black liquid background of space. His chef style had become aged and grey threadbare rough cotton looking as a set of weighing scales hung at his waist. His 6 wings were lined like scales at their attachment point while bluish-green micro burst of color filled the liquid blackness in their wing tips.

Nightingale, Pestilence, grew a pair of yellowish-green horns as she grew in size to match the others. Her normally dusky skin turned into true blackness sparsely filled with swirling yellowish-green stars in the liquid foreboding blackness. Her only covering was a cloak of the purest blackness darker than Lord Death’s own robes. Her nails were hooked sickles curving out longer than her hands and her wings appearing partial torn and filled with the same yellowish-green stars.

Twin, Death, simply grew in size while still looking human shaped. His liquid skin held dim yellow stars floating around in slow patterns in the blackness of the cosmos. The robe was a dark grey and threadbare as a long wicked scythe leaned against his chair. His hand were not skeletal but long slender and emaciated as well as his new face. The three pairs of wings, like his skin, was filled with the pale yellow stars sprinkled in the liquid blackness.

Scarabea, Chaos, face and head elongated like what has been stated of the Egyptian gods Anubis or Seth being a jackal headed being. A thick collar at her neck clashed with the softer colored smock she wore now over her liquid black skin show bursting lights of exploding stars underneath the surface. Fingerless leather gloves, heavy boot at her feet, and wide belt cinched at her waist completed her clothing. Studded sparkles on the leather sections of her collar, gloves, boots, and belt while her eyes were filled with pure darkness only. Her 6 wings looked sharply cut but only filled with the liquid blackness like her eyes.

As for Kestrel, Order, his cosmic filled body had all the myriad star colors and forms within the blackness. His unslung bow-staff had grown to match his new height while a crown sat upon his brow and he was clothed in the brightest white linen with golden highlights at the hem and around his belted waist. His wings matched his body but they blurred to white sparkles in the blackness of the skies high above at night.

“We are here to be together one last time before the great darkness engulfs the light jewel of Atlantis.” Kestrel added softer. A mild murmur ran around the room but none commented about why they were there. I moved around the room exchanging platters as they emptied and refilling glasses. I ignored the fact they did not touch the food from the platter, from their plates, nor the liquor in their glasses. Their words were foreign to me but I still had that inclination that I did know this language that I could not understand. What I saw here, was never to be spoken about outside places sealed with this cosmic protection.

“I must ask that he understands our words!” Chaos growled in Atlantian. “We know that your time is short, Brother Order, and I believe your replacement deserves to know the role he will play as our future leader.” she concluded hissing. Order sighed as he looked at me.

“I will go only at my proper time.” he told them. His voice like the others had taken an echoing quality that was causing odd resonance within this circular room. The brightness of the pillar of light flowed with their tones while only a whispering of the buzzing of its voice was a backdrop to the voices of the six. “I will agree for him to hear and understand our words my little Sister, if we all agree.” he offered. A smirking smile appeared on each of their faces as they nodded in turn their agreement. It had started with Chaos and circled the table until War nodded his acceptance. My left ear tingled as I felt a light weight upon it. “He shall hear and understand our words while within this hall with us.” he concluded. He had spoken the other language and I understood it in my left ear.

“Thank you, sir.” I whispered in his ear as I had swiftly returned to his side. The soft intake of a breath had my eyes moving to look upon the fiery form of War.

“We are founded to protect and rally the Fallen Ones, you call humans, until they face their final great darkness.” War stated calmly. I nodded and moved my eyes to Famine.

“We have existed since long before Earth was formed being from the first five races.” he explained. “We five were chosen by the Lights of Life and through their Envoy, Brother Order, for this purpose.” Famine added. With a nod from me, my eyes glided to Pestilence.

“The races did not start existing until Universe, beloved mother of Genin, sacrificed herself to let her blood flow and bring all things in existence from the first to the last race.” she announced oddly softly. Nod and move my view to the next one.

“His race bears only two beings, Genin and his half-sister Genia, the children born from Universe.” Death stated. “He is fathered by the Void, while Genia was born from an act of violence.” he added more quietly. Nod as I changed my point of view.

“We are to rally six armies to defeat the great darkness in the far future if Atlantis survives the dark knot it faces.” Chaos reported calmly. “We stand as Brothers and Sisters of the Light of the Ley’ä’Luna.” she added. I nodded and looked at Kestrel.

“All of us have sacrificed everything about our pasts to be reborn in this plane as defenders of the human race.” Order said. “Each have lost much along the way here even their own original bodies to stand together until it is done.” he concluded. They nodded as one towards him. A small whimper escaped Chaos drawing my eyes back to her.

“Some have sacrifice their true bounded pair to stand here with us.” she commented as her eyes, now swirling colors, turned towards me. “Order lost his life partner to a very evil monster that is still free.” she explained softly. Order looked at her. “The lost had removed true laughter and happiness from him for so very long.” she added. And this fact was being revealed to me fully as my heart ached for him and how I would feel seeing Dia die before me.

“His wife stood by his side in all his actions as Order or Genin.” War began.

“She was willing to sacrifice her existence for him even if she was considered evil.” Famine continued.

“She died to save him from the evil released upon all existence.” Pestilence added in.

“”Know that this enemy is the enemy of all of us.” Death continued.

“He is all of us and without him, we are nothing.” Chaos concluded this tale and their personal vow to me.

“Enough of this history lesson.” Order told them. “We have more important things to discuss than my darkest moment.” he added. The echoes of his words held more pain than I ever thought possible before this moment. I felt how closely this could have been me if I had remained at Dia’s side.

“True!” Famine interjected.

“What have you foreseen for us to do?” War returned calmly.

“You and Death shall stand against the hordes of Lemuria trying to run.” Order bluntly stated. I felt that the peace that was about to be sign was only a facade hiding a truth unknown to others. “Chaos will be igniting the crystals to cause a chain reaction destroying all of them.” he continued easily. “With luck or Lockey’s trickery, part of your essence will be trapped outside this plane until the worse of the future darkness has moved upon us, Brothers War and Death.” he concluded. My mind struggle to understand and accept this information.

“As you order and warn us, eldest one.” War replied for the three of them.

“And of us three?” Famine asked.

“You will attempt to save many who should die because of their ships will be sucked down with Atlantis.” he replied quickly. “Pestilence will be doing the same but this will all happen before the battle hidden by Atlantis sinking.” he continued calmly. “Your survival for a rebirth will only be known by the winner of that battle.” he explained slowly to them. There was no doubts in his voice as he slowly looked at each of them. “As for myself, it is unsure but I will be here in one facet or another facing she who wishes to destroy Atlantis.” he concluded. A shiver ran up my spine forcing me to speak.

“And my place?” I asked softly. All six sets of comic eyes turned towards me at my simple words. Silence was my answer.

Redpath's Journals: Life Always Moves Forward (30)

My life changed greatly at this point. Daily training with all the household except Kestrel himself. So many meeting with Shal, Siren, Deas, Miss Hope, the four Captains, Steel, IchCui, Sara, and many more in a chaotic schedule that tested my speed. I did eventually have a sparring session with Cassis where I defeated her and from that point on, she could not surpass my still growing speed. I was in full control and could fight any of them, including the Captains and Miss Hope, to a standstill. My reputation upon Atlantis grew to have some seeking me out to learn from me. I did mostly turn them away honestly telling them that I have no time to have a student with all my duties. Until one day a mixed trio of an Atantian boy, a female fox pup, and a female bear cub countered my refusal with an offer.

“If your duties hold you back, place them upon our shoulders.” the boy said.

“Yes, we can run errands or deliver messages for you.” the bear offered.

“I am fast and strong, like my friends, so I can help with anything.” the fox added. I paused from walking away and slowly turned to face them. I scratched at my chin while purring mimicking Kestrel pensive moments.

“Does it have to be me that trains you only?” I asked as a planned formed in my mind. Our household was filled with good warriors that could assist them as well as myself. “Those that I have learned from might be willing to help give you training.” I hazarded slowly.

“We have heard that Lord Kestrel does not accept trainees nor does he actively train others anymore.” The fox returned quickly. I chuckled back with a nod.

“Lord Kestrel was not my only teacher.” I admitted to them. “I was trained by all of them in different styles.” I explained to them. “Sir Sertian is skilled with weapons of all kind, Lady Mekiliean uses staff and fists, while Sir Colêsträ uses dagger and deceptive techniques.” I continued. I saw the shocked look at offering to teach them deceptive fighting. “You cannot counter a deceptive maneuver if you do not know it exist.” I told them softly. “You need not fight dishonorably while facing a dishonorable opponent.” I added as their eyes started shining with possibilities.

“But will that teach us to be as fast as you?” the bear asked shyly.

“You will have chances facing me in training sessions but will also learn many more ways to be unique fighters in your own way.” I replied smiling. “And I am sure I can convince Lady Cassis Dēn to help you increase your speed through training with her troops.” I added as they smiled.

“Then you are willing to attempt training us?” the boy asked wide eyed.

“Yes, for two reasons.” I answered softly. “You offered a way to help and did not simple continue pushing for it on the principle that you deserved my training.” I explained slowly. “But I will need time to make these arrangement before you can start your lessons.” I cautioned them. They smiled and nodded as they thanked me for giving them a chance.

I discovered by researching their bloodline that the boy, Datched, was a distant nephew of one of the lower Council members seen as a child of lowly merchant from one of the satellite islands. He did not have the connection to join the Academy but had trained in one of the lower schools. He had a weak affinity for water magic but nothing else. A good boy who had few close friend but seemed well liked by most that know him. He lacked the natural skills to be a warrior being weak, clumsy, and slow. I saw Meli as becoming his main trainer adding in some minor medical knowledge, he would make a solid Militia Reserve candidate as a field medic.

The bear girl, Darch of the Small Paw clan, held back her great strength fearing to hurt others. Her clan was well ranked but she had fail her test to enter the Royal Cadets because of her fear holding her back. She also had good agility but lacked in speed which is not a major trait among the Ursus clans. Sert would be the best as her main trainer able to goad her into using more strength while teaching her to control it. Sert would also be able to help her with increasing her speed and ways to combine her strength and agility to give her speed bursts.

The fox girl, Serany of the Sand Footed troop was, like myself, from a rare smaller group within the larger division of the Ferret Guards. Her troop was ranked low within the Ferrets and her test had allowed her entry into the Royal Cadets but could not hide her emotions to a point at snapping back at her teacher. The reprimand she received had her challenging the instructor to be soundly defeated and expulsed from the Royal Cadets. She was described as hungry to improve while unable to conceal her thoughts or her emotions making her very hard to train normally and easy to read during combat. Her natural speed, dexterity, and strength was above average but no guile or cunning in her straightforward mind set. Cole could help her the most to hide her thoughts, and control her emotions.

I could not be sure in five years they would be ready but they deserved and earned a chance to learn and improve. If they worked hard, in five years I could make a request for them to be retested to be added, at the least, into to the Militia Reserves. Cassis would support this and even request for students that have trained with my group to join her squad. It was actually easier to convince the team to add them as part of their training sessions and directly instruct them for their best way to improve. Even Cassis was interested in them once I explained their skills and weaknesses as she mentioned she had the perfect partner to help them train like we did during our spare time.

I informed the three the next day having them meet me at Lord Kestrel’s residence for their fist lesson. Both Kestrel and my kestrel watched over them and, during one of our passing conversation, he told me I had select the proper trainer for each of them. I felt proud and confident from his words. He reminded me once that he could not have found them better teacher than I did. I was still busy but, with a trio of extra feet and hands, it made it easier. Like Kestrel had designated his team, I did the same with them. Datched ran Council messages from Kestrel and Cole, Darch ran messages for the Royals and the Guards from the household, and Serany did runs to and from the Royal Kitchens and the Healers’ Halls. All three assisted when supplies were need to be carried from the harbor to home or from the many new depositories within Atlantis.

I learned that Deas could mind speak one day as foreigners were acting aggressive with him. I never knew I could cross the island of Atlantis as quickly as my kestrel companion until that day. The mental scream for help had me flipping upon my heel to gaze around me until I realized it was a mental call. I focused my mind on the words: “Where are you?” I received an image from his eyes and I was upon the roof flying over Atlantis with my kestrel winging its way above me. I landed hard with a deep growl that had them step back in shock and fear.

“Leave or the Royal Guards will make you leave!” I snarled at them. I dd not know what had happened since I smelled the fear wafting from Deas. This young man was nearly an adult being close in age to Prince Bryan and Bryan’s best friend. The trio of foreigners looked at each other, then at me one last time, before running away. Their escape did not get them very far as Cassis squad came around the corner they were trying to retreat around.

“Hail Sir Kestrel, and thank you.” Cassis called out as her troops had the men bound and prepared to be marched away. “You have been warned about aggression having no place on Atlantis multiple times.” she reprimanded the men. I glanced back at Deas to give him a quick wink. “This was your last infraction toward Atlantian peace.” she continued. I saw the cold calculated smirk on her face. “You are being return to your lands and banned from returning to Atlantis for your lifetime.” she told them before dragging them towards a schooner of Atlantis. “I believe you can assist Engineer Deas back to the Academy, Sir Kestrel?” she added as they walked passed us.

“I am at the service of Atlantis through Lord Kestrel.” I answered. One of the men turn to look at me and fear reeked from him. I chuckled with a purr in my throat as I turned to Deas. “Seem that one knows the reputation of Lord Kestrel.” I remarked. “Are you ready to return to the Academy, friend Deas?” I added. He nodded to me looking flustered.

“I could not even defend myself.” he told me softly.

“Then stop avoiding Prince Bryan’s offer to help you train.” I returned easily. “Or visit Lord Kestrel house and join into are youth training program.” I suggested softly. ‘Whatever you decide, but if you feel weak than you should become stronger.” I explained. “If not for yourself then to be a strong right hand for your friend Bryan.” I added in a near whisper.

“I am trained to fight but they flustered me with their aggressive behavior.” he admitted with a sigh.

“Discuss it with Cole and his part-time student, Serany, since she has the opposite problem.” I suggested. “Learn from her as she learns to control her emotions from you.” I told him. “You can overcome any weakness with the proper helpful advisor.” I added in a soft purr. He nodded and laughed. The next session had Deas and Serany sitting with Cole and training with him. Deas showed he was skilled and stayed for all three of my students sparring sessions encouraging and participating on the field. He became the a regular and yes, even he improved with all of them.

I must admit that the real reason I got those three students was to give them something else to think about than simply worrying about Kestrel’s condition. I just needed them to stay calm and preoccupied for these five years before word of the peace treaty with Lemuria being a reality. Only three months had passed while I saw my students grow quickly into solid warriors for Atlantis, or was it for the exodus that was going to happen. I was resting in my perch feigning sleep while Chichi and Kestrel sat in the garden drinking strong liquor.

“The world can protect itself a bit longer.” he stated to the chef. Silence and possibly a gaze upon me to check if I was listening. “Just accept my decision and wait to hear with all the others, Brother Famine.” he stated. I felt it was spoken more as an indirect order than a casual request.

“You have been rather quiet and remaining home more often than ever before.” Chichi answered tension in his voice. “I am not the first Famine that has fallen to the wayside but you have always led us without changing.” he explained quietly. This information I filed away knowing that the others had handed their mantle of power before but never Kestrel. I could understand his tension but founded it shortsighted on his side. “Is it truly your time to step aside for a new generation to take up your torch of leadership?” he whispered. The word touched my ears adding to this thought of his ignorance that even Kestrel needed to pass on his position eventually.

“All things must change eventually.” Kestrel replied. “Everything has been prepared and my Squire stands by my side knowing what his duties will be.” he explained slowly and softly. I sensed his gaze on me but continued feigning sleep. “And only he can save this world from something much worse than they might ever be able to face.” he concluded. The chef’s eyes moved to me for but a moment and heard the quick intake of breath from him.

“You mean he is...” Chichi exhaled unable to voice his complete thought. “But he is...” he continued haltingly. I felt his eyes return to me much harder than before. It was a judgmental touch on my skin while I remained silent and immobile while my slow rhythmic rising chest of feigned sleep with a soft snore purring out of me. “He is seen as an oddity among the Royal Guards because of his unnatural speed.” he continued slowly. “He bested a wind mage that geared all her skills towards celerity.” he mentioned. “With your abilities, he will make lightning seem slow.” he concluded. I heard the shiver from his clothing crinkling as a scent of fear reached my nose from him.

“So he will be able to put all of you in your place?” Kestrel replied followed by a deep chuckle. “His quick body has a quick mind which will be of use to all of you with the future I have seen.” he told the chef. His confidence was palpable in the air around me. I heard a soft sigh from Chichi before their conversation returned to mundane unimportant chatter. I help Kestrel to his room after the little chef had left. They both were swaying from the drink but I did not move until the other was gone. I bid Kestrel a good night receiving a mumbled thanks and my night was done.

As every night since he asked me to be his Squire, my night was spent in a living dream. I had not seen beyond the oval room and circular temple where they sat as a pillar of purest light. I stood in a vigil by this light as they spoke and instructed me about all things from the past into the future they wished for. It was not a flowing view of history but set points when the actions of Kestrel, as Brother Order, and his selected family had acted to prevent the path going in the wrong direction. They were showing me why they were needed and why they existed. I would awake the next morning refresh and calm while, somewhere in the back of my mind, I digested all this information given to me nightly.

I did notice the odd change in Miss Hope’s behavior towards me. The eye inspection had turned into her shyly avoiding looking directly at me the few times I was the one escorting Kestrel to the Queen’s tower. Her increased friendliness toward Kestrel was also noted but it was more as she saw him as her closest confidant than anything romantic. I did hear her whispers to Kestrel and his advice to her. What I did learn was how the Holy Queen was spiraling farther towards what could only be called madness. My mind returned to the tales of the Usurper Queen that left the Royal Guards in this mixed animal and human form hearing of our beloved Queen’s delusions.

Four years of training and helping with our duties in Kestrel’s household had my students finally gaining the position that was best for them and made them happy. Datched was the first to graduate gaining both a position within Cassis’ squad and as a trainee in the Healers’ Halls. He balanced his duties between these two groups while still getting in practice sessions with Meli and myself. Within another six months, he was being called the lead, and only, medical support for Cassis’ squad and gained the respect from his team mates.

Serany was the second to gain her position but it was not within the Feral Guard divisions. She received, thanks to Cole’s request, an offer to the Council Guards who were creating a mix division to act as go-between themselves and the Royal Guards. She had learned to be less easy to read but still was not perfect yet, as she herself admitted. She would spend most of her spare time assisting, practicing, and still training with Cole never feeling she was good enough for the position she had received. Her speed had increased to be one of the fastest among the Ferret Guards bloodline but still could not match Cassis or myself in celerity. She was happy but still doubted in her own skills but never held back without showing a hint of her doubts.

Darch did not follow in the same veins as the other but still gained her own success. Her ability to fight without needing to fully use her strength had her looking into other types of work that would suit her slower abilities. Her strength was her limitless power carrying multiples weight upon her back easily without it interfering her mobility or lower speed. She started helping on the docks and was seen as a powerhouse mover of supplies and goods arriving or leaving Atlantis’ harbor. Her helping became her work and she was happy since she could also defend the great weight she carried. She would spar occasionally with Sert but mostly visited to talk between her work shifts on the docks of Atlantis.

Deas was not always present or as active during his time visiting and sparring with the others. He was helpful to the others but his reaction to other three acting aggressive had him freezing up. Nothing we attempted to tell him or tried during the sparring seemed to prevent him blanking into a passive scared young man. Even when he had been aggressive prior to the back lash, his personality shifted instantly when challenged back. Serany seemed to gravitate to this shy submissive reaction and often acted aggressive before patting his head and calling him cute. This did continued until I learned from Prince Bryan that his friend was spoken for and claimed by some fox girl of the new Council mixed Guard squad. I only let a purring chuckle out at this. It was true that she would not let other women or girls approach him as she would easily scare them away from the man she claimed was her future mate.

Then the day came as we stood together upon the dock waiting for the arrival of the Leviathan carrying the Peace Ambassadors from Lemuria. Whispers behind us drew my attention and that of Kestrel as the Captains whispered to our companions and indirectly to me. The words were mentioning worries about Lord Kestrel’s state but he seemed to ignore them at first.

“I shall be fine.” he rebuked them over his shoulder. “Saving my energies for the revelry to come.” he added with a smile on his face. I glanced at him and the others flashing all of them a smile. When he straightened, I saw the shimmering swirling of air announcing the arrival of the Leviathan. This went mostly unnoticed as the worried whispers continued behind us as I stood at Kestrel’s side.

“Since I saw him heal that child, he has been weakening but there is no cause or ailment present.” Meli whispered to the Captains.

“I believe he bent a rule imposed on him by the Ones that sent him to us.” Sert added to another Captain quietly.

“And they punish him by leaving him slowly die?” Cole snorted out. He did not hide his words or thoughts to everyone present. “Something else must have happened to degenerate him so thoroughly.” he countered bluntly. I had heard enough as I took a deep breath into me to speak.

“Things are as he has foreseen them.” I stated hard. “He always told Miss Hope that he would not be the one fighting for Atlantis in his prophetic vision of our future darkness.” I gently reminded them. My head turned to meet the Captains eyes over the head of my trio of companions backing us. I saluted them individually while receiving a nod in return. This was simply born from the respect I had earn from them when showing my prowess while continuing my life as a plain Honor Guard and teacher at Kestrel’s side.

“Do you truly believe this, young Kestrel?” Captain Curd asked seriously. He did not whisper, purr, nor growl as he voiced this question.

“I believe in Lord Kestrel knowing what must be done if everything goes wrong upon Atlantis.” I answered looking directly in his eyes. “He stays, feigning weakness, to be the most potent shield and sword of Atlantis.” I concluded bluntly. I bowed in formal feline fashion to Captain Curd before turning to face the Leviathan lowering its gangplank in place to disembark.

“Best we keep this to ourselves and let him play his role as he has planned it.” Captain Rez grumbled at us. The sound of a quiet thunk of wood meeting wood announced the plank was connected to the dock. I step forward with Kestrel to greet our honored guests but even that turned into an unexpected scene to confuse and rejoice everyone present upon the dock and the Leviathan.

Kestrel's Journals: Time Leading to my Last Supper (29)

Years crawled by as I excused myself from most missions claiming that Atlantis needed my presence more than the outer world did. I would now watch the sparring sessions between young Kestrel and Sert. My feline replacement had pushed Sert to increase his speed to much higher levels. He still could not match young Kestrel at his fastest but so far no one did. The last session between Repath and Cassis had ended with Cassis heavily plucked from the air to be pinned by her opponent. Meli and Cole would sometimes join in the sparring session but mostly tried to avoid being overly stressed facing the celerity of my cat. Nightingale and Chichi visited from time to time, sometimes sparring, sometimes conversing, and sometimes asking why I remained in place while they were here to protect Atlantis during my absences.

“The world can protect itself for a bit longer.” I told Chichi over strong liquor one evening in my garden. Redpath was in his roost with his linked companion kestrel perched above him. The chef looked at me with a worried gaze. “Just accept my decision and wait to hear with all the others, Brother Famine.” I ordered him directly.

“You have been rather quiet and remaining home more often than ever before.” he replied in a tense breath. “I am not the first Famine that has fallen to the wayside but you have always led us without changing.” he continued calmly. “Is it truly your time to step aside for a new generation to take up your torch of leadership?” he asked in a near whisper.

“All things must change eventually.” I replied softly. “Everything has been prepared and my Squire stand by my side knowing what his duties will be.” I continued slowly. I automatically looked up at my feline replacement. “And only he can save this world from something much worse than they might ever be able to face.” I added softly. My eyes returned to his face. He glanced up for a moment then looked confused to me. I nodded to him as his eyes widened.

“You mean he is...” he breathed out softly. I nodded again smiling at him. “But he is...” he started then glanced up at young Kestrel who appeared to be napping. He looked back at me. “He is seen as an oddity among the Royal Guards because of his unnatural speed.” he explained softly to me. “He bested a wind mage that geared all her skills to celerity.” he reminded me. “With your abilities, he will make lighting seem slow.” he added with a shiver.

“So he will be able to put all of you in your place?” I returned. I chuckled at the dark glare he gave me. “His quick body has a quick mind which will be of use to all of you with the future I have seen.” I confided in him. He sighed and our conversation returned to mundane matters.

My time with Annianka was also different during our daily meetings. She felt I had changed describing it similar to how she has changed during the many centuries she had arrived in Atlantis. I smiled, kissed her, and whispered that everything was as it should be. Miss Hope acted more friendly to me as the meeting time with my Brothers approached. She had whispered to me as her confidant about her fears and worries. I consoled her and advised her but nothing more at this time. Her glances at young Kestrel when he accompanied me to the gate was odd but also shy. I also gave myself time to remember the storm upon my arrival. I was still unsure what had cased this unnatural assassin to exist.

My half-sister’s absence on the island except for her living bomb could suggest she was involved in the attack upon me. The other option was still that the monstrosity in the Heartstone had lashed out to stop my arrival upon Atlantis. In both possibility, prevent me from walking upon Atlantis was the point of either of their deadly assault upon my ship. The chance of it being a natural event had been erased in my mind when I saved the young boy and fully awakened the echoed shade within the shard of the Heartstone. My presence upon Atlantis for the last two hundred years was not wanted but might have been adjusted for. Receiving the shard, being attracted to Annianka, and constantly sticking my nose in so many issues around the world.

The five years drifted closer daily as time seemed to speed up for me. Arrangement had been made with Pestilence reserving a hall for us six to meet, Chichi created elaborated meals and wines rarely found in this world, while I kept track of my Brothers War and Death who would carry Sister Chaos with them. This was the last great gathering for all of us together. This event would not happen again until the next knot was coming upon us. Our pathways would cross but never would the six meet again until the appointed time. Each of our path would cross most of those we have met so far but it would be just passing moments in my case. Young Kestrel will be with all those he has touched during many lifetimes for many moments. I just hope he and Dia can be together more often than any others in his line or mine.

My household had arrived as a group to stand at the dock with Corëe’ap’Ręæ’s and Twin Feathers’ selected Guards waiting with the Four Captains at our backs. Whispers from the Captains had me turning to face them. They looked worried at me as I realized it was my team they whispered with. I listened but faced forward in a pretense to ignore them.

“I shall be fine.” I remarked over my shoulders to them. I did not hide the edge of annoyance hearing my health being discussed openly between the Royal Guard Captains and my overly worried team. “Saving my energies for the revelry to come.” I lied to them. I smiled knowing without looking that young Kestrel quickly glanced at me and smiled as well. I straightened sensing the rift opening to allow the Leviathan to glide into docking position. I still heard the whispers at my back.

“Since I saw him heal that child, he has been weakening but there is no cause or ailment present.” Meli secreted to the Captains.

“I believe he bent a rule imposed on him by the Ones that sent him to us.” Ser whispered to another Captain.

“And they punish him by leaving him to slowly die?” Cole commented with a snort. He was not trying to be silent knowing Redpath and I would hear all their words easily. “Something else must have happened to degenerate him so thoroughly.” he suggested. I heard my feline Squire take in a deep breath as he turned to face them.

“Things are as he has foreseen them.” he told them. “He always told Miss Hope that he would not be the one fighting for Atlantis in his prophetic vision of our darkness.” he reminded them softly. The Captains eyes turned to Redpath. He looked at each in the eyes before nodding and saluting them one at a time. They simply nodded back to a feline three-quarter their size.

“Do you truly believe this, young Kestrel?” Curd asked not whispering.

“I believe in Lord Kestrel knowing what must be done if everything goes wrong upon Atlantis.” he replied looking at Captain Curd. “He stays feigning weakness, to be the most potent shield and sword of Atlantis.” he added bluntly. He bowed fluidly to Curd before turning to face the Leviathan as the gangplank slid into place.

“Best we keep this to ourselves and let him play his role as he has planned it.” Rez grumbled at then softly. With a soft thunk of wood on wood, the gangplank had connected the ship with the dock. I stepped forward with only Redpath at my side.

My plans were set in stone in my mind. I would offer Annianka salvation, her refusal would allow me to focus on Atlantis alone with the twin archaic dragons. I would make a great show of being ripped away from Atlantis with my remaining strength to be safely hidden in a secured place. I would then set everything in motion by transferring my gifts and potential into my Squire. The new Brother Order would go forth to save Atlantis while my body expired and dissolved into the nothingness of true death. He would find his own path to save Atlantis and survive with what I have taught him.

Cor and Twin barrelled down the gangplank to tackle me to the dock. We ended up in a tangle of arms, and legs laughing like children. They acted like true little brothers to me which made me wish the five of them were my true brothers and sisters instead of Genia. A young woman in an Egyptian cut cloak and dress slowly walked down the plank as we three disentangled ourselves. A smile glowed on her face that held the purely features of the Egyptian people.

“Meakita.” she stated in a hesitant whisper as she curtsied to me.

“You should wait until I get these two off me before greeting me, little Sister.” I panted out between chuckles and laughs. I fully pulled myself to my feet to bow to her. “Lady Scarabea of the Sands.” I greeted her formally with a second bow in the Egyptian style. Her eyes sparkled with mischief for but a second before she launched herself into my arms. As I knew my Brothers were behind my knees, to assist her toppling me over to my back. Laughter ran around from us four playing like children on the dock. We ignored the Captains, their Guards squads, and my friends who all looked at me with surprise and relieved shock. Young Kestrel laughed but did not move to help me until he knew we were ready to act more adult. Slowly our laughter spread through to all of them. I held a hand out to Redpath who helped me to my feet and assisted Serif, Sister Chaos to her feet. She gave him a quick curtsied thanks pressing her forehead into his leather armored chest.

Cor and Twin walked at my sides while young Kestrel and Scarabea followed with my remaining retinue close behind them. Easy words of no real importance passed between us as we marched with two contingencies of Guards following the four Captains. I mentioned in passing that the King had excused himself the day before they arrived and planned to return the day after their scheduled departure. What we discovered was not lined nobles to greet them. The nobles stood in small groups spread out around the Royal Court chamber merrily sipping from mugs and discussing casually. They hailed us as we entered cautiously to this odd receptions. Annianka giggled as she welcomed us to a taste of Valhalla upon Midgard’s jewel. Cor and Twin faces feel from the shock as once more the crowd of spread out nobles hail their arrival.

“A slice of home away from home!” Annianka announced to them louder. “Enter and be merry!” she ordered rising from her throne. The brothers shot forward directly towards her but failed as she launched herself at them to easily topple them to the ground. A less aggressive repeat of our playful greeting on the dock proceeded while the nobles acted like this was normal. Scarabea remain close to Redpath while I side-stepped to stand on her other side. The smile was on my face as all of this truly pleased me.

“It is always good to see you smile, Brother Order.” she whispered to me. “It has been a very long time since I have seen you smile in earnest.” she added a bit louder.

“Lord Kestrel smiles and laughs often since he has been on Atlantis.” young Kestrel remarked with a shrug. She turned to look at my feline counterpart. “When he does not need to crush threats towards Atlantis and the world.” he added. A small smirk had started forming on his face.

“I am sure the grin they receive is a very vicious smile when doing so.” she replied with a soft giggle.

“Only when they truly deserve to see his full vengeance.” he returned with the icy edged smirk. It softened as he turned to me. “You should join in the festivities, sir.” he suggest to me.

“This celebration is for my two Brothers and not for our Sister or myself.” I answered him. “It is why we two stand here removed from it while enjoying the youthful performance.” I continued with a deep chuckle. “You are right about how long it has been since you last saw me smiling.” I added to Chaos.

“What has happened to you to regain this shine in your eyes?” she asked softly.

“My answer would be Holy Queen Annianka.” Repath purred out before in became a soft vibrating chuckle.

“She is of your age category which very few can claim except Genia.” Scarabea returned slurring my half-sister’s name. “Any words on where that psychopath of a half-sister has been hiding, Great Lord Genin?” she continued with a growl in her voice. Kestrel glanced back to her as he placed a hand on her shoulder. She calmed at his touch as her snarl returned to a pleasing soft smile.

“All I know is that her little walking bomb is in place in Atlantis.” I stated softly. “She will show when it goes off to hide her interference by destroying the island.” I added to her. I did not hide the momentary snarl twisting my mouth before it returned into a pleased smile. The air was filled with anecdotes of Cor’s, Twin’s, and Annianka’s playing tricks on Loki and the other Asgard deities. Intersperse with these was blasts of laughter and shock sounds of hearing the crafty nature of their Holy Queen. She waved most of it off as childish whims and not her true nature nor her adult personality. This revelry did not truly get anything done but lasted from their noontime arrival to the last glows of the setting sun extinguished on the horizon and the highest marbled spires of Atlantis. As they all filled out of the Royal Court, most left in family clusters with a Guard or two escorting them out of habit and not for true security.