Kestrel's Journals: Lessons and True Speed (25)

It was mid-afternoon when Lady Nightingale arrived for our group training session. Redpath had done his session earlier with Sert and myself leaving me facing Sert as Nightingale arrived to join our playtime. I knew Sert realized I was not going at my normal speed during our session as I wanted him limbered but not over tired facing Aurora Nightshade. To be honest, my session against young Kestrel had been more taxing on me with his still increasing battle speed. His present level of speed even surpassed the Cheetahs and could soon rival myself. Once my mantle is passed to him, his speed will increase exponentially blurring reality as he moves. I sighed at this thought before calling an end to my sparring session with Sert. I realized he had not noticed his next sparring challenge.

“Why do you take it easy on me today?” Sert grumbled.

“Because I am not the sparring partner that you need to focus upon today.” I responded to him I motioned Nightingale to take my place opposite to Sert on the field. “You have had a chance to learn from a chef.” I told him with a smirk. “Now you will learn from a high ranked Amazon.” I concluded exiting the field. I turned on the outside of the designated battleground and signal the session to start.

She took a defensive stance waiting patiently while smiling at him. He bowed to her before taking an attack stance against her. Her stance shifted fluidly into an attack stance as her smile turned more vicious and challenging. Their sparring was swift as both attacked, defended and counter-attacked with perfect practice movements. They returned to their starting position before bowing once again to each other.

“What have you learned so far, Sert?” I asked casually.

“That she can fight as my equal.” he answered easily. “But I feel she is holding back making it much harder for me to learn anything more from fighting her.” he continued with a shy grin.

“Do you truly think you can handle the full attack power of an Amazon Warrior?” she retorted with a hint of malice in her voice.

“I will never truly know if I never face it like I have faced a chef’s rage.” he replied calmly. He bowed lowly to her. “To truly learn, one must face the full force even if it renders me into a giant crawling bruise.” he added with honesty. She glanced once at me to see my mind on this request. I shrugged at first, pensively scratching at my chin, but slowly and hesitantly I nodded my agreement. The smile she gave me was beyond vicious.

She bolted at him with lightning speed to knock his weapon easily from his grip. She dropped low before him and kicked upwards with both feet directly at the base of her sternum with all her strength and speed. What followed was amazing even to myself. He lost his breathe and his concentration from that hit which also had his clothing disappearing. The double kick launched him airborne into the second floor window where Meli was having one of her social tea parties. Sert splattered bare butt first in that window for Meli’s guest to have a good look.

I learned later that her tea party had been going quite well as Ambassadors’ wives and the few female Ambassadors including Nightingale’s first spear. They had been merrily chatting and laughing about the gullibility of most male when facing a woman. The loud thud on her window drew all their attention as they witnessed the most perfect full moon they had ever seen during daylight hours. Some gasped in horror while other snickered lewdly. Sert quickly did his best to remove himself from the window without falling to the ground by climbing down. Witnesses from the street could have sworn they saw Sertian climbing out of Meli’s window fully naked causing no end to the rumors that those two were having secret flings together.

“So that’s his little secret!” I remarked while young Kestrel was on the ground laughing. Nightingale looked positively aghast by having caused such an incidence. She was blushing madly as she tried avoiding looking at Sert as he climbed back down to the edge of the training field in the buff. “Do not worry Nightingale, it is not your fault that his clothing was a mental construction.” I informed her chuckling. “It is a bit of a freakish magical talent but it proves his bloodline is linked to the original nobility.” I added unable to hold back my own laughter.

“What do you mean?” she snapped back at me.

“He does not need to wash or repair his clothing or armor since he simply recreates them from his mind magically.” I answered her calming myself. “It is reported that members of the noble bloodlines of Atlantis all have unique magical abilities but it is diluted and warped as it goes down the genetic bloodline.” I explained to her. “Mostly it becomes a freakish talent that appear useless in normal life.” I continued easily. “He would probably only carry and wear clothing when he visits outside of Atlantis.” I added under my breath.

“What’s with the naked man?” Chichi asked from behind all of us. “And the laughing cat acting like a swine?” he added. He stood in the doorway looking mildly confused at the entire situation.

“I hit him so hard that he lost his clothing.” Nightingale returned as she turned towards him fully. “Want to try your luck against me, Brother Famine?” she said huskily at him. All it took was her licking her lips and I had to dodge to clear a pathway for him charging at her. It took Nightingale only a few moments to have the little chef on his back while she straddled his shoulders. She teasingly leaned forward bringing her privates riskily close to his face. “Shall we finish this in private or do you wish to give everyone a good show?” she whispered to him.

“Private now!” Chichi screamed from under her. She pulled him back to his feet and rushed him out of me residence. Sert exited the bushes now fully dressed against.

“I must believe our sparring session is over with for today, sir?” he asked sheepishly.

“Yes but we get to see young Kestrel going all out before the Guard Captain and the head of the Feline Prides.” I answered chuckling. Redpath had finally regained his feet smiling at us.

“I will be sparring with Cassis and we both want to try reaching our ultimate celerity.” he informed us. “I also requested that we are judged by those five to define our level rank within the Royal Guards.” he added. His tail was flicking rapidly showing how exited he was for this session.

“Cassis?” I asked softly. “A cougar wind mage that should not be linked to the military?” I stated directly to Redpath.

“Yes.” he interjected smiling. “Her wind is not good for building or healing so she returned to gain marshal training.” he informed me. “But her and Toma did discover a new way to heighten yield and easier blending metals using fire and wind together.” he explained slowly. “And they make a very good team and couple.” he added which actually surprised me. We started heading toward the selected training field for his first true ranking session.

“You have meet Toma and Cassis, but not Peles, Toma’s older brother?” I asked softly. He looked at me and shook his head.

“Only Toma has come to Cassis training and our sparring sessions.” he replied slowly.

“Sounds like you have been making many friends upon Atlantis.” I hazarded softly. He nodded and smiled wider purring.

At the practice field, the four Captains and Valeria stood waiting with Cassis nearby to them. I took me a moment to notice and recognize Toma and Peles standing in the shadows under trees at the edge of the training grounds. I waved at them signalling them to join Sert and myself at the edge of the battle to observe it better. Young Kestrel and Cassis marched side-by-side to the centre of the battle zone. They shook hand in the warriors way before taking their place to bow deeply at each other. Valeria strode to the halfway mark to them forming a triangle.

“Upon the request of Cassis Dēn, we gather to witness a sparring session between her of the Royal Reserves, of rank in the Zephyr division of the Academy, and of the new Metallurgical Unification Division as a founding member and Kestrel of the Redpath clan, self selected Honor Guard of Lord Kestrel, Envoy and Royal Advisor, and he is the Queen’s Knight of her majesty Queen Diadem of Helvetius Kingdom.” Valeria proclaimed as she stood in perfect military stance. “Kestrel of the Redpath clan has added a request that their skill and rank level be judge by the Captains of the Royal Guards and myself as Leader of the Prides which has been accepted by Cassis Dēn.” she continued in a booming voice that echoed around them. “As is their right, we stand in judgment and as observers to their skills, abilities, and proving their rank among the Royal Guards.” she added. A cheer rose from the Captains in the form of roars, howls, grunts, and high pitched chitterlings. She stepped backward three large steps and signaled the beginning of their battle.

They both shifted instantly into an attack stance facing each other while smiling cheerfully. I felt Cassis magic rising around her like a tightly twisted tornado of wind while Redpath breathing slowed to a barely noticeable movement of his chest. I heard a small gasp from Peles and a soft breathy chuckle from Toma. Sert only smiled at our friend as he appeared to be statue still in his focus giving away nothing of his coming attack. They both blurred launching at each other gaining a surprised yelp from Ent and Jäz while Curd purred loudly and Rez rumbling chuckle added itself to their group reactions. I did not hear nor see any reaction from Valeria. The hits, blocks, and counters became a pulsing slapping sigh ringing clear in the air. My eyes, which could at first follow their movement, failed as they blurred at the speed they now moved.

“When did she get this fast?” Peles asked in shocked whisper.

“That would be Red’s training with her.” Toma reported smiling proudly. “They have pushed each other passed their limits to become this amazing.” he added as a deep crimson blush was on his cheeks. His older brother nodded with wide eyes watching the spectacle before them. But neither combatants had given an opening or made a mistake as their speed continued increasing. After images of their form locked into strikes and blocks started forming upon the field showing their celerity had risen to unknown levels of speed. The smacking sounds started merging into a quick pulsing vibration in the air but they did not back down nor paused.

“Sir, can you still follow their movements?” Sert asked in a gasp.

“Barely.” I replied chuckling loudly. “And I worried about him finding a good equal sparring partner.” I remarked between my laughs.

“Does your cat have some kind of magic?” Curd suddenly asked. I glanced at him to see wide eyed wonder, shock, and pride on his face and in his stance.

“Nothing I have discovered nor sensed from that odd black kitten.” I yelled back to him.

“That is no kitten, Lord Kestrel.” Ent called back. “Those two are living dervishes that blur to our eyes.” he added. The sense of amazement, awe, and disbelief come from all the Captains finally seeing young Kestrel truly fight with his full abilities against an equally skilled opponent.

Half an hour had past as these two marvels of speed and combat skills had turned into blurs that at time seem to skip ahead without being visibly seen. I felt myself breathing hard as if I was in the field facing off with either of them. I finally realized that even Miss Hope would have problems trying to keep up with the speed these two battled at. Then, what I believe might lead to a quick ending, started as Cassis floated upward still battling. Young Kestrel used his strikes and angled his blocks to stay airborne without slowing down. They had risen nearly half their height above the ground without stopping their celerity based attack style.

“Break!” Valeria roared. She turned to look at the observers at the side of the battle zone. Her eyes were wide and color had drained from her face even in its animal form fur coated cheeks. I glanced towards the Captains as each nodded to show they had seen more than enough of this impossible fantasy of a battle. Her wide eyes turned towards me. With a smile covering my face, I nodded before chuckling that turned into laughter. I felt Sert slump finally relaxing from the tension of watching this match. “We have seen enough.” Valeria stated not turning towards the combatants. I looked to see both of them already back in their starting position breathing hard while giggles and chuckles were coming from them.

“I thought I could get you when I raised the battle but you actually kept up without touching the ground.” Cassis shrieked as she giggled.

“That was amazing and did not realize we could float while fighting.” Redpath returned chuckling.

“You are absolutely unbelievable” Toma and Peles screamed chuckling behind me. Even the Captains were now laughing in their own way as Valeria came to join them. I watched as young Kestrel and Cassis moved in unison to clasp forearms in a warriors greeting. I only half listened to the Captains and Valeria murmuring to each other while we all waited for the verdict.

“I would never believe Redpath could move that fast.” Sert breathed out beside me. “He is far beyond my skills with that speed.” he added softly.

“You will eventually discover a way of slowing him enough to make it an even match.” I returned to him. “And this can be consider a lesson we have both learned today.” I added unable to hide the pride I felt for my feline name sake.

“Cassis Dēn! Kestrel of the Redpath clan!” Valeria interjected loudly. “Approach and stand at attention!” she order to them. Both moved slowly to stand ramrod straight before her and the Captains. “That was absolute insanity!” she scream at them. “You have gone beyond any possible limits we have believe possible.” she reported to them calmly. “Until today.” she added with a half smile. The roar animal laughter that rose behind her from the Captain had both Cassis and Redpath relaxing a bit in their stiff posture.

“As Captain of the Feline Guards, you are both exemplary warriors.” Curd stated to them. This simple show of being impressed was out of character for Curd usually finding something to complain about when giving praise. “You are both ranked as top members of the Feline Royal Guards.” he added before saluting them followed by a deep bow.

“As Captain of the Ursus Guards, I have no words that can convey my amazement at your performance as warriors.” Rez told them in his grumbling voice. “The Ursus Royal Guards see both of you as equals to our greatest members.” he concluded. The salute was clean and crisp, but the bow was more clumsy and hard for him. Cassis was about to say something but a glare from Valeria had her remaining silent.

“As Captain of the Lupus Guards, I fear fear facing either of you on the field of battle.” Ent admitted nearly casually. “You both are ranked within the greatest and most powerful warriors of the Lupus Royal Guards.” he conceded with a hard swift salute. He followed this with a bow exposing the back of his neck to them. The one Captain known to called all others as inferiors had shown submissive acceptance to these two much younger felines.

“As Captain of the Ferrets and Outcasts Guards, you have skills beyond the natural order.” Jäz announced to them. His look was reserved and pensive as he paused for them to understand his words fully. “The Ferret Royal Guards greet you as sister and brother to any and all our families as equals and honored members.” he added softly. His salute was slow, formal, and fluid as his eyes remained on them. The bow was a slithering movement of those that kill snakes easily. It was not an insulting sign but showed he saw them equally skilled to his kin’s specialty.

“As Leader of the Prides, I have seen and accept your rank as true Felines of the highest quality.” Valeria reported to them simply. “I cannot wait to face either of you upon the next Pride Hunt, even if I may lose my title of Leader.” she concluded with a sly smile. She did not salute them but bowed deeply, fluidly, and showed all her emotions of shocked awe at their skills.

“Wait!” Cassis interjected as her tail swished and undulated like a writhing snake behind her. “We are considered fully ranked in the top tiers of all four Royal Guards groupings?” she asked stunned. Her breathing was short quick breaths as her body quivered. Toma was on her right side while Peles was at her left side as both grasped her hand and placed a hand each upon her shoulders.

“Breath in deeply and count to three, my love.” Toma reminded her softly.

“Release the breath slowly with another three count, Cassis.” Peles continued the simple exercise.

“You deserve being praised with all you have done, Cassis.” Young Kestrel assured her. I could see her breathe slowing and returning to normal as her stunned surprise was accepted to her mind.

“You made that request on purpose to force this to happen, Red!” she suddenly yowled at him. He chuckled as she glared at him.

“I was taught to help my friend see themselves and for others to see them as they truly are valued.” my feline replied smirking at her. “I knew they would see how all your effort and work had made you an asset to all of Atlantis.” he continued as he half giggled and half chuckled. He saluted her and bowed to her in a purely fluid fashion only a cat could accomplish. “And it gives you another option of teaching others to combine their magic to become even more valuable for all of Atlantis.” he added. He was prancing over to where Sert and I stood after this. Over his shoulder, I watched both young men hugging Cassis and I remember when I first met them nearly a hundred years ago.

“Sir? Sert?” young Kestrel interjected softly.

“You have proven yourself perfectly, my feline shadow.” I replied with a beaming smile at him.

“You will have to stop holding back when we spar.” Sert stated with a smirk. “I will not improve without truly being challenged.” he added with a chuckle.

“I will but I will give you a chance to adapt.” Redpath returned purring happily.

“I believe you have earn time in the market place.” I told him softly. “Take Cassis, Toma, and Peles with you and teach them about the wonderful food of the outside world.” I added chuckling. I held out a small pouch of coins to him. With a nod from me, he claimed the pouch to rush over and collect his friends to invite them to celebrate this moment in their life. He was only a child but tried to act as a grown warrior and deserved a day to be childish, this once. The fear and awe blended in my mind as I watched him, knowing how powerful he will become once my strength and magic was poured into him. I saw nothing being able to stand against him as he fought for honor, righteousness, and the Fallen Ones.

“You appear very preoccupied, sir.” Sert commented. “You may also need a day to relax without needing to perform anything you do not wish to do.” he suggested calmly. I sighed deeply pushing back all thoughts except for the victory young Kestrel and Cassis before those they wished to prove themselves.

“I wish to sit in the garden and play music today.” I answered with a grin. “I have not had a good day to simply be a song bird with many borrowed voices.” I added. In a pleasing silence, we walked slowly back to our residence.

Redpath's Journals: Prophecies And My Worse Fear (25)

We did not get a chance to leave as we were met nearly at the door with a new group of guests. Meli had rushed to refill the tea pots with fresh tea for our nightly meeting. Deas arrived to informed us of Prince Bryan and Princess Sara were arriving shortly for a visit with Kestrel. Deas collected the large tray to return it to the Royal Kitchen promising to bring treats for our second grouping of guests. She returned from the kitchen giggling at how the Prince had altered his plans to give a better chance for a private secret meeting within Kestrel’s secured residence. Sert was smiling from the door to the garden readying himself for our extended meeting. I understand why Kestrel did not wish the others present for this meeting but I also knew how they would feel left in the darkness of unknowing.

“I have the door, sir.” I told Kestrel, motioning towards the garden. “Our new tea will go well for this second group of visitors, yes?” I asked softly. I received a smile and nod from Meli as Kestrel waited a moment before nodding to me. “And yes, we are bending rules but we must follow orders.” I added getting a laugh from all those standing within the foyer.

“Deas will return once the dishes are deposited to the kitchens.” Kestrel reported to both Meli and Sert. “And can stay in the foyer with you two.” he added quickly. He received nods from the those two before disappearing back into the garden with Lady Nightingale. I escorted the young Royals, and Lady Ichcui into the garden. I stopped behind the Governess as she pause in the doorway.

“If Lord Kestrel is in agreement with this, I will be nice and not mention anything about it.” she stated. Her arm held Princess Sara close to her until she received proper allowance to enter. The respect and not fear held her back wishing to give Kestrel due ruling within his residence.

“Of course I agree that Princess Sara should meet the Ambassadors.” he told her smiling. “She should have knowledge of them that visit Atlantis to make her future accession to the throne easier when the Royals fall.” he explained for her. The slow nod of agreement from her had her grip loosen on the Princess.

“True.” she interjected. She stepped forward slowly as Princess Sara rushed directly towards Kestrel. “I am very pleased to be allowed in your home, Lord Kestrel.” she stated formally giving him a quick fluid curtsy.

“You shall never feel unwelcome under my roof.” Kestrel replied. He bowed to her while also scooping up the Princess, his daughter, to place her on his lap. She looked up at him while he spoke softly to her. She must be mental speaking to him as he replied verbally. After a few moment of this odd looking one sided conversation. I saw the look of worry in Ichcui’s eyes as she watched them. I had moved to one side with Prince Bryan to not get in the way of their discussions.

“That is the one thing about her that disturbs me.” the Governess commented.

“She only speaks to you and listens for your answers without truly reading your mind.” he assured her softly. This gained a quick confused glance from Prince Bryan and Ichcui, herself.

“A mental touch only reads surface thoughts alone, or so I have noticed.” I whispered to Bryan. He glanced at me shrugged and returned to listening.

“She seems to prefer mind talking to me instead of using her words.” Ichcui replied. A hint of annoyance was in her voice and in her eyes.

“It would be best to ignore her until she speaks.” I advised her.

“I am already doing that, sir.” she informed him. She kept her eyes upon Kestrel as she spoke. “But why does she call you ‘father’ when mentally speaking to me?” she asked. The Prince choked back his laughter as I simply held back mine. My focus now shifted to Bryan as I realized he new the secret of Princess Sara’s paternal origin. “She does say the word ‘uncle’ when she talks about you.” she added softly in the silent room.

“The Captains have already explained it to me.” Bryan stated from beside me. “Ichcui is very perceptive.” he told them casually. He leaned towards me. “Yes, I know Lord Kestrel is her father.” he whispered to me. He gave me a wink and shrugged.

“I must believe it is our mutual ability to mind speak like her mother.” Kestrel explained. The look of disbelief in the Governess face showed this was not an answer she accepted.

“I told you she was perceptive.” the Prince snickered. Kestrel kept his eyes locked with Ichcui’s.

“A mind cannot truly lie, meaning she sees you as her true father figure and not King Munin.” she replied to him. Kestrel nodded but said nothing. “If there is more to this, leave me in the dark, please?” she added. She looked away as I glance over seeing Princess Sara turning to look at Ichcui as well.

“You can let it slip to wolf-boy.” the Princess said plainly. “He will understand the truth like the Royal Guardians already do.” she stated with a smile.

“Steel is the wolf-boy.” I whispered. A little smile and nod from the young Lord making me think he had seen him or meet him.

“That is Royal Guards.” Kestrel corrected her.

“They are and will always be the Royal Guardians keeping the secrets of what has truly transpired upon Atlantis.” Princess Sara returned. Her words were not the words of a child her age being only a bit younger than myself. Her young voice delivered the word slowly and precisely.

“She is growing up faster than either of us.” Bryan whispered to me receiving a quick nod from me.

“I have seen it like you have, noble father.” she continued revealing the truth all but Lady Nightingale already knew.

“My sister is very gifted.” the Prince remarked casually.

“And she seems to control her gifts very well.” Ichcui added with the hint of a shrug.

“It seems that everyone of importance knows your little secret, Brother Order.” Lady Nightingale announced to the room. The confused look Bryan gave received a shrug of confusion back. Her deep toned chuckled filled the air before she continued. “Only the ones that should never know are being kept in the dark so far.” she added softly. The brilliant smile blossomed upon the Princess’ face.

“Will Auntie Pestie come play with me sometimes?” she asked looking at the Ambassador.

“If I am not forced to play ‘Nightingale’, I am at your service, my niece.” she answered with a sitting bow to her. “Hard to believe you would be the first of us six to have children.” she added. The smirk and look she gave Kestrel was sibling teasing similar to Meli’s and Sert’s friendly teasing. “You have been more prudish since Elyria’s death so long ago.” she continued softly. Something about this name stuck in my head and reminded me of Kryel KreLey but I did not know why.

“I think that is quite enough on that subject, Sister Pestilence.” Kestrel remarked bluntly. I did not need to see but knew we had all turned to look at him. I saw the pain he tried hiding in his eyes with his blunt words.

“It is best if they knew enough to be able to face the little events that might arise.” Lady Nightingale suggested to Kestrel. Bryan nodded slowly starting the ring of nods. Ichcui and myself added our slow nods in order while Sara nodded vigorously.

“Even if she is not of my blood, she is my sister in my heart and I will protect her even facing death himself.” Bryan started. The whispered giggle from Sara touched my ears.

“She has chosen me to stand with her, I shall not falter in my duties to teach her and keep her safe.” Ichcui added to their oaths. Kestrel eyes closed as if listening to another oath we could not hear. My nose was touched by the familiar hint of brimstone and wolf beyond the wall.

“I bear your name and shall be at your side as I have repeated to you often, sir!” I added my oath to theirs. “No matter what, I will stand with you and Atlantis.” I concluded. I felt I had accepted a fate I did not know was possible but my path was chosen by myself, willingly.

“You all speak words of true oath binding.” Kestrel muttered softly. His eyes remained on top of Princess Sara’s head avoiding looking at us now. “Should I tell them what their fate is by following this path?” he asked her.

“I am not the Queen yet to command you, father.” she replied softly. “My words mean nothing at this point.” she concluded. I could see the little childish smirk she tried hiding.

“Not true sister, you are the Princess and true heir of the Throne of Atlantis.” the Prince snapped back. His half smile told me he was playing along with his little sister’s game.

“And as Royal Advisor, my ears are always open to the members of the Royal Family of Atlantis.” he whispered just loud enough to be heard in the silent space. Even Kestrel was smiling at this playfulness of his daughter. “Truth of what I have seen for them or do they remain in the dark to perform their duties naturally?” he asked her softly. It was odd leaving up the decision to Sara but this was not something for me to make a judgment about.

“Tell Bryan and Ichcui, please.” she decided calmly. She turned to face them as their ending fate was being told. “They will not take it the wrong way.” she added so softly, I nearly missed it. Kestrel nodded before his eyes raised to look at young Lord Bryan.

“You, Lord Bryan, will earn your way into Valhalla with your sister because you will die with her as her last protector.” Kestrel stated in a flat unemotional voice. His eyes moved to Ichcui. “As for our Warrior of the Sun and Moon, she will fall battling her conspirators with Steel at your side assisting Bryan to stand against the other enemies during the last moments of Atlantis.” he told her directly. His eyes slid over to Lady Nightingale. “Lady Nightingale and Lord Chilörąn, Pestilence and Famine, shall spearhead the evacuation with Sert and Meli assisting them saving many, but not all.” he continued. His eyes raised to the dark sky above. “During all of this, Annianka shall face a star child bound to destroy Atlantis while her Holy Highness has gone mad with delusions.” he said and stopped. His eyes returned to the top of Princess Sara’s golden head in silence.

“And where will you and I be?” I asked in the silence. My vision blurred with unshed tears but I saw him look up to meet my eyes as he held back his own tears.

“You will be with Miss Hope, trying to assist Annianka as she spirals deeper into her madness.” he answered plainly. I knew inside my own heart and in his eyes that this was a lie. “My place is of no importance once it gets to that point.” he added trying to dismiss this moment. His shrug did not hide to my eyes the shudder that rocketed through him.

“If we allow everything to fall upon this path...” Sara’s face scrunched up ‘...he will have been removed from us permanently.” Tears fell freely down her cheeks. “But another shall stand as our protector and father.” whispered through my mind from her. It was tinged with sadness but also ignited hope in my heart. I said nothing about this message meant only for Kestrel. Matching tears rolled down my cheeks without being noticed in the shocked silence surrounding us. The deep growl slowly grew and it took a moment for me to realize I was not growling.

“And our two Brothers and our Sister?” Nightingale growled. Her face was flooded with emotions fighting to gain control. The smell of her fear finally reached my nose and my body tensed and readied to fight, to hunt, to destroy anything to prevent this path existing. “Will they not come to our rescue in our time of desperate need?” she screamed at him. Her body was shaking as she tried hiding her rising fear with her mask of anger. “Speak you old sooth-saying bird of ill omens!” she howled at him. Kestrel focus remained tightly on the golden head of his daughter. I do not know if it was my imagination or reality but I saw KreLey floating behind Kestrel touching his shoulders with her tentacles and her hands upon his head. She was there for only a blink, but I am sure she was there crying as Sara did for her father.

“Lost with Lockey and her Leviathan before the end is upon us here.” he whispered out, She stared at him as I noticed the sparkle of tears falling from Kestrel’s eyes. The weight of his words plus the odd link I had made in my mind between him and KreLey had me not reacting but just thinking, listening, and watching.

“We all die in one way or another for the greater good.” Princess Sara stated softly in the new silence. She sniffed and wiped away her tears before turning a smiling face towards Lady Nightingale. “We will all meet again in the future many times if Atlantis survives the battle between the two children of the stars.” she explained so softly. “Father cannot see beyond this even since all the pathways of time lead to this knot that will judge us and everyone to move forward for light or darkness.” she informed all of us.

“My future big sister is so wise.” I heard Kryel KreLey whispering in my mind followed by her musical giggle.

Meli entrance had us holding our tongue as tightly as the shock of Kestrel’s revelations. She meticulously changed the tea pots we had barely touched. A pedestal grew for her to place a platter of snacks with an origami dragon as its center piece facing Kestrel. Princess Sara wandered around the garden talking to the chipmunks, the bird, the trees, the plants, and the people within the garden acting like a normal young child. The kestrel in my tree bed remained silently watching the events. The Ambassador, the Governess, and Kestrel spoke in silent tones while laughing at the antics of the Princess. I had turned to Bryan drawing into a light discussion about tactics and practicing simple moves. Everything to make it look like a normal evening without the dire truth of our conversation. Kestrel snagged the paper dragon showing it to Sara waiting for Meli to leave the garden.

“I think this will explain my reason to call upon you, Lady Nightingale.” Kestrel grumbled. He had read the note from Chichi and I could see his annoyed tension. He looked at me while handing the paper to Pestilence. “Redpath, get word to the Royal Guards to have the security around the Greek, Roman, and Egyptian Ambassadors tightened for the next week since it appears they are being goaded into retaliatory events thanks to our little chef.” he ordered to me. I did not waste time nodding as I bounced up to the wall and was down the street to find the Guard Captains. A squawk told me I had feathered friend following me.

It was not an easy job but with a bit of sniffing and my feather friend, it felt easy. I first found Curd, the snarky Captain. He listened and growled annoyed before stalking off to get more of his troops in place. The next I tracked down was Rez, the grumpy Captain. He was grumbling through my report to him but eventually nodded with a half salute to me before lumbering away. Instead of Jäzærha, I found the best alternative, Khëndrâèl and Siren by the concubines residence.

“Lord Kestrel has a warning for your Captain.” I explained to him. Siren took a half step back to let us talk.

“I can take the message to him young Knight Redpath.” he returned with a smirk. I could not resist chuckling while the fox held her hand to her mouth. I explained the situation to him as his whiskers twitched with interest. “This could be useful to speed up peaceful negotiations.” he muttered under his breath.

“I can get this whispered into the King’s ear.” Siren pipped in softly.

“I believe Kestrel is seeing if Prince Bryan will come to this beneficial conclusion.” I replied with a purring chuckle.

“I will inform my Captain right away.” Khën replied giving me a full salute before disappearing to the shadows.

“He is one of busiest officers in the Royal Guards outside of yourself, Red.” Siren returned with a smirk. “Prowl by in a few hours since Shal wishes to have words with you.” she added with a nod to me.

“I will return and prowl in the area until she is free to discuss.” I replied with a fluid bow to her. “But I still must find Captain Ent.” I added before leaving.

“The wolf packs’ should be training in north field by their lair.” she screamed after me. I waved a thank you to her as I bolted through the shadows and up to the roof tops to reach my destination faster. My newest feathered friend flew like the wind with me as I bounded across the roofs. His speed had my friend shooting ahead to circle over a section squawking loudly for me. I came off the roof to land at the edge of the training where Curd and Valeria sparred. I knew better to disturb this match considering she was ranked second to Miss Hope upon the hunting field. I watched noting their combat speed and how many strikes multiplied with counters, reversals, and direct moving blocks. Unfortunately after my sparring with Cassis, they appeared to move slowly in comparison to us.

“If you want a chance on the field, I could be willing to show off before the Captain.” I heard purred beside me. I laughed recognizing Cassis voice.

“After giving my message to the Captain, he might not be able to spend time watching us play.” I replied softly. The session did not last long as they both seemed equally matched. The both bowed to each other while laughing hardily. “Captain Ent, may I have words with you?” I called out and moved aside to speak with him in private. I did notice Cassis moving in the opposite direction with Valeria.

“What does Lord Kestrel need now?” he growled at me. The smirk on his face showed how much fun he had sparring with his wife.

“Increased security on the Greek, Romans, and Egyptian Ambassadors due to rumors goading possible violence between them.” I explained swiftly. His growl died as he looked me in the eyes. “Yes, this is possibly an internal instigation but that is not to be touched yet.” I continued already understanding how he would think and react. “The rumors could work in our favor as the Ferret’s second-in-command has considered.” I added with a smirk. He shook his head and called forth his second-in-command. The orders were direct and only mentioned tripling the security squads. As his second left, he returned to me.

“It’s done, young Redpath.” he told me with a quick salute and chuckle.

“I thank you in Lord Kestrel’s name.” I replied returning the salute to him.

“One last minor issue requires young Redpath.” Valeria stated. Her and Cassis walked over to join us. “Cassis has requested a monitored sparring session against you with all the Captains and myself present as observers.” she informed me. “Do you accept this witnessed challenge, Kestrel of the Redpath clan?” she added looking at me.

“I graciously accept this challenge.” I replied standing to my full height. I was still shorter than all of them but received a grin from Cassis. “I would request that, as I am not being linked formally to any military unit, I may be judged on my level of performance as well as Cassis being accessed as well.” I added calmly. Valeria glanced at Cassis who nodded her acceptance to this request.

“You and Cassis will be judged and assigned a rank according to your performance during the training session.” Valeria agreed. Captain Ent nodded as he patted me on the back. “I am expecting both will show their best side.” she added smiling at me. I bowed to her before heading home.

Kestrel's Journals: The Other Troops (24)

The idle chatter continued until Aurora, young Kestrel, and myself were making our way back into the foyer. Meli had just refilled the tea pots with freshly made tea for our household after meal discussion. Deas was standing in the foyer waiting for us. He smiled as he reported that young Lord Bryan and young Lady Sara were arriving soon to visit ‘Uncle Kestrel’. Meli giggled as she feigned rolling her eyes. Sert simply smiled from the doorway to the garden with a quick nod before returning to collect the empty trays, platters, plates, and cutlery to pass to Deas. Young Kestrel stayed by the door while we moved to return to the garden and take our places for this impromptu visit that bent many rules.

“Deas will return once he has returned the dishes to the Royal Kitchens, and can stay in the foyer with you two.” he stated to Sert and Meli who simply nodded. The three pots of tea had been places on the heating braziers with many clean cups waiting. Young Kestrel escorted Bryan, Sara, and her Governess Ichcui into the garden. Meli and Sert acted as door guard while the foyer still held a squad of a dozen She-bear Guards and the trio of Aurora’s retinue.

“If Lord Kestrel is in agreement with this, I will be nice and not mention anything about this.” Ichcui stated. She held one arm keeping Sara by her while waiting in the door of the garden. I smiled knowing she was doing this to respect me and not fearing this infraction of Royal rules.

“Of course I agree that Princess Sara should meet the Ambassador.” I stated back. She looked at me with sharp eyes. “She should have knowledge of them that visit Atlantis to make her future accession to the throne when the Royals fall.” I added as explanation. She nodded slowly her agreement to my words.

“True.” she interjected. A soft smile came to her face as she stepped forward allowing Sara to rush ahead. “I am very pleased to be allowed in your home, Lord Kestrel.” she announced giving me a quick fluid curtsy.

“You shall never feel unwelcome under my roof.” I replied smiling. I bowed to her using it to scoop up Sara to have her sitting on my lap. The child’s mind babble to me was a steam of all the events she has had during my many times away from Atlantis. I warn her to be careful with her mental speech to prevent being overheard by others. She instantly replied that her cousin had taught her about direct hidden mental message and whispers. The next information had me intrigued as she had been training Deas using his gifts in the same way.

“That is the one thing about her that disturbs me.” Ichcui commented while watching our exchange. I had verbally been answering to all the mental whispers Sara spoke to me.

“She only speaks to you and listen for your answers without truly reading your mind.” I returned calmly. I had not added the word ‘now’ at the end of my statement. The others stared from me to Sara and back to me.

“She seems to prefer mind talking to me instead of using her words.” the Governess replied with a hint of annoyance.

“It would be best to ignore her until she speaks.” I advised her.

“I am already doing that, sir.” she informed us. Her eyes were locked on mine as she spoke the next line. “But why does she call you ‘father’ when mentally speaking to me?” she asked. “She does say the word ‘Uncle’ when she talks out loud about you.” she added quietly.

“The Captains have already explained it to me.” Bryan replied from where he and young Kestrel spoke silently. “Ichcui is very perceptive.” he added casually.

“I must believe it is our mutual ability to mind speak like her mother.” I tried explaining away. The look of disbelief showed this answer was not an acceptable one to her.

“Told you she was perceptive.” Bryan snickered at me. I did not look away from Ichcui’s eyes as she reason what she was willing to admit of her thoughts.

“A mind cannot truly lie, meaning she sees you as her true father figure and not King Munin.” she stated slowly and calmly. I nodded to her receiving a soft smile. “If their is more to this, leave me in the dark, please?” she concluded. Sara turned in my grip to look at her as well.

“You can let it slip to wolf-boy.” Sara said plainly. “He will understand the truth like the Royal Guardians already do.” she added. Her voice was still childish but her words showed how quickly her mind evolved towards maturity.

“That is Royal Guards.” I corrected her gently.

“They are and will always be the Royal Guardians keeping the secrets of what has truly transpired upon Atlantis.” Sara responded. She spoke slowly but clearly to everyone in the room with a sweet smile on her face. “I have seen it like you have, noble father.” she continued no longer hiding anything. Everyone in the room already knew that Princess Sara was my daughter except for maybe Aurora. My glance went from Bryan to Ichcui as they spoke.

“My sister is very gifted.” he responded calmly.

“And she seems to control her gifts very well.” Ichcui commented with only a mild shrug.

“It seems that everyone of importance knows your little secret, Brother Order.” Aurora announced with a deep toned chuckle. “Only the ones that should never know are being kept in the dark so far.” she added. This brought forth a glowing bright smile from Sara at these words.

“Will Auntie Pesty come play with me sometimes?” the Princess asked.

“If I am not forced to play ‘Nightingale’, I am at your service, my niece.” she answered with a bow to her. “Hard to believe you would be the first of us six to have children.” she commented with a small smirk. “You have been more prudish since Elyria's death so long ago.” she continued softly. It was a bit of teasing but friendly as they all realized my true past. “I hope this does not bode ill for our special Sibling Family.” she added closer to whisper.

“I think that is quite enough on that subject, Sister Pestilence.” I remarked bluntly. This gained me a look from all those within the garden. My sudden reluctance would easily be mistaken for anger by the bluntness of my words.

“It is best if they knew enough to be able to face the little events that might arise.” Aurora remarked to me. The slow ring of nods ended with Sara nodding more vigorously in my lap.

“Even if she is not of my blood, she is my sister in my heart and I will protect her even facing death.” Bryan stated.

“She has chosen me to stand with her, I shall not falter in my duties to teach her and keep her safe.” Ichcui added her oath.

“Where she leads, I go and fight for her and for Sara.” the mental whisper in my mind from Steel, the wolf-boy demon.

“I bear your name and shall be at your side as I have repeated to you often, sir.” young Kestrel stated. “No matter what, I will stand with you and Atlantis.”

“You all speak words of true oath binding.” I muttered. I looked to the top of Sara head, avoiding their gaze filled with acceptance and hope. “Should I tell them what their fate is by following this harsh path?” I asked in a half whisper to Sara.

“I am not the Queen yet to command you, father.” she answered quietly. “My words mean nothing at this point.” she added.

“Not true sister, you are the Princess and true heir of the Throne of Atlantis.” Bryan told her.

“And as Royal Advisor, my ears are always open to the members of the Royal Family at Atlantis.” I whispered to her. I could not help smiling at this playfulness she was showing all of us. “Truth of what I have seen for them or do they remain in the dark to perform their duties naturally?” I asked again. I left her to decide this point since Aurora and myself could not agree that they should know the truth.

“Tell Bryan and Ichcui, please.” she stated calmly. She twisted in my lap to look toward them. “They will not take it the wrong way.” she added in a whisper to me. With a sigh, I nodded accepting her request.

“You Lord Bryan will earn your way into Valhalla with your sister because you die with her as you protected her.” I told him. My voice was unemotional, flat, and passive. “As for our Warrior of the Sun and Moon, she will be battling her conspirators with Steel at her side while Bryan stands against the other enemy during the last moments of Atlantis.” I explained to her. “Lady Nightingale and Lord Chilörąn shall be spearheading the evacuation with Sert and Meli assisting them.” I continued. I place what I could together from my vision to give them the most clear picture, if still vague. “During all of this, Annianka shall face a star child bound to destroy Atlantis while she has gone mad with delusions.” I concluded. I avoided looking at young Kestrel knowing too much about his fate.

“And where will you and I be?” Redpath asked in the quiet room. I looked at him with a sad smile.

“You will be with Miss Hope, trying to assist Annianka.” I said plainly. “My place is of no importance once it gets to that point.” I added in a dismissal tone. I shrugged hiding the shudder that wracked my body.

“If we allow everything to fall upon this path...he will have been removed from us permanently.” Sara supplied. Her face had scrunched up as her eyes filled with tears. “But another shall stand as our protector and father.” she whispered sadly in my mind. She made no sounds as the tears rolled freely down her cheek grieving my assured death before it happened.

“And our two Brothers and our Sister?” Pestilence asked. Her shock at my not mentioning them in my vision statement had her for once feeling fear. “Will they not come to our rescue in our time of desperate need?” she continued animated. She used anger to hide the growing fear creeping into her mind from my words. “Speak you old sooth-saying bird of ill omens.” she screamed at me. I did not look up at her focusing on the top of Sara’s golden head.

“Lost with Lockey’s Leviathan before the end is upon us here.” I whispered out to her. She stared wide eyed at me realizing the full implications of my words.

“We all die in one way or another for the greater good.” Sara returned quietly. She sniffed and wiped away her tears before turning a smiling face toward Aurora. “We will all meet again in the future if Atlantis survives the battle between the two children of the stars.” she explained cheerfully. “Father cannot see beyond this event since all the pathways of time lead to this knot that will judge us and everyone to move forward for light or darkness.” she informed them.

It was not just their shock that held their tongue as Meli entered to change the tea pots and place platters of snack food for all of us. Each in turned thanked her while Sara babbled childishly on my lap before jumping down and walking around the garden. She spoke to the flora and fauna in merry manner like any other child her age did to everything around her. Nightingale, Ichcui, and myself talked quietly and laughed at Sara antics. Bryan and young Kestrel exchange battle strategies and practice a few battle moves to one side of our gathering. Meli placed the platter on a pedestal she grew from the ground at the centre of the garden where we had grouped ourselves. An origami dragon sat upon the middle of the platter facing me. I retrieved it and waited until Meli left before unfolding this report from Famine.

“I think this will explain my reason to call upon you, Lady Nightingale.” I stated in a grumbling sigh. I was handing the note to her while giving my orders. “Redpath, get word to the Royal Guards to have the security around the Greek, Roman, and Egyptian Ambassador tightened for the next week since it appears they are being goaded into retaliatory events thanks to our little chef.” I told him. Young Kestrel was over the wall faster than any Royal Guard has ever moved. He was a blur of black fur that had Bryan looking shocked over this feline’s celerity. Sara moved to sit between me and Aurora.

“Is he mad?” Nightingale asked while reading his report to me. “Having each one believing that the other two will sign peace treaties with Atlantis and each other based on rumored combined attacks upon each other.” she explained quickly. She looked at me for permission to show it to Bryan with a tilt of her head.

‘Yes, Prince Bryan may read that report but you, Bryan, cannot interfere or speak of this issue to others.” I stated while eyeing Bryan. He nodded before taking the message from Aurora’s hand. He read it once looking both annoyed and confuse. The second time he read it his look became pensive. He was muddling through the many political ramifications of this rumor driven event.

“This could be used in our favor if Atlantis offers a treaty of mutual protection and alliance to the three without informing the others two about this rumor trap.” he finally stated. He looked up at me waiting for me to agree or dismiss on his assessment. I motioned him to continue his thought pattern. “Once they all sign, we informed them that neither can attack the other since they are all now allied to Atlantis making them forced allies.” he added smiling at me. I nodded slowly to him.

“You might make a good ruler out of this one.” Nightingale commented out loud. This gained a blush from Bryan but I received the rest of her statement in a mental whisper:“If he lives through this mess.” I did not vocalize or mentally respond to her heavy doubts of any of us surviving this event. This was in part the infection upon this world that made everything appear in the most dismal possibilities. This was just another knot that could not be circumvented if the paths of the past could ever become the time paths of the future. If we failed her, all the future knots would come together as one ending any chances at a future existing. Failure would have the world with only three or four of the Brothers and Sisters of Light able to assist them through the darkness. It is a minor difference since failure means Atlantis is destroyed releasing the darkness or Atlantis disappears beneath the waves while the darkness grows in a slow crawl towards the next knot in the pathways of time.

“I believe it is time to call this evening to an end.” I stated softly. Sara had moved to curl up in Ichcui’s lap yawning. Bryan nodded first as he looked at his sister. Ichcui agreed with her own slight nod as she rose holding Sara tightly to her. We moved slowly into the foyer where Deas now waited for Bryan.

“I will escort my sister and Ichcui home before returning to my dormitory.” he informed us. They drifted off with the Royal Governess walking between Bryan and Deas as she carried Sara. I turned to Sister Pestilence, bowed deeply as she curtsied back to me. Her trio followed suit each taking a turn to bow or curtsy to me to receive a bow from me in return. Her Ursus Guards fell quickly in rank around them as they walked down the dim lit marble street.

“Was the evening productive?” Meli asked in a whisper.

“Very productive.” I half lied back to her. “Lady Nightingale will be here for our morning sparring session to test Sert.” I remarked getting a fearful gulp from the warrior. “If your little tea gathering is completed by then, I am sure she would love a chance for you sparring against her.” I added getting the same fearful gulp from Meli.

“I believe my tea social will run very late, unfortunately.” Meli responded. The false casualness was easy to note in her tones. “And did the message from Chichi helped place everyone upon the same path regarding our potential allies?” she added with a little smirk. I nodded back with a stony faced grin.

“Everyone will start running alliances offers to Atlantis making all them allies under the belief they are protecting themselves from rumored plotting against them.” I informed her. “Once they are all linked to Atlantis, peace is forced upon all of them since they are now all allies.” I concluded softly.

“Aggressive diplomatic methods but not without honor assuring a peaceful world while Atlantis stands strong as the peacemaker of the world.” Sert returned calmly. Meli nodded as they both smiled at this underhanded maneuver for a good cause.

“If it is the only way to save the world as a whole, Atlantis bows willingly to the will of the Ones on High.” Meli continued softly.

“I believe it is bedtime for all of us since we still have much work to do in the morn.” I told them. “Cole and young Kestrel will sleep once they return home.” I added indirectly letting them know that Redpath was out.

Redpath's Journals: Seeing Passed Disguises (24)

“What happened? Sert asked me.

“Kestrel had a very potent dark vision.” I replied to him. “The Wolf Guards escorted me back while he screamed nonsense on the docks.” I explained. The tears I had been holding back started pouring down my cheeks. “Every one there smelt like fear.” I added before collapsing to the marble floor. Sert knelt by me but could not say anything as he simply petted me slowly and softly. Meli rushed in to find us in the middle of the foyer at this point.

“What happened with the Amazon Ambassador?” she shriek at us. She moved to start checking me for wounds as Sert did not move from my side.

“No physical issues, Meli.” he snapped at her. “Kestrel had a vision.” he told her. “A very bad vision from young Redpath’s reaction and comments.” he added looking at her. A look of worry passed between them at these words. It was not the heavy fear from the dock, but intense anxiety and worry only.

“Explain it to me, please?” Meli asked softly. I could see how wide her eyes were as I described the entire event from the last words of Nightingale, Kestrel dropping, his reaction of pushing me away, and falling into a multilingual screams. I mentioned the few words I remembered Kestrel saying making Meli blush and place a finger across my lips to shush me. “Those are swear words meaning it was truly a nightmarish vision for him.” she explained to me. “Bring words to the Royals about this so his delay is explained without them asking him.” she told Sert. He nodded and started leaving but paused at the door looking back worried one last time before leaving. “Everything will be fine.” she added to me. She sat on the marble floor beside me gently petting my head and back.

Cole was explained the events that had happened signally Meli to go. Barely half an hour had passed and we still had the Wolf Guards outside our doors keeping the disruption at home to the minimum. I knew from her whispered self reminders to have food delivered from the Royal Kitchen for our evening meal and strong sake to help Kestrel recover from his vision. Cole simply asked me if I was alright. A forced a smile and nod had him rushing off to inform the Council. It would be nearly another hour before my return that the Wolf Guards finally moved away giving me a chance to leave.

I went to the Royal Court but remained on the outside noticing Lady Nightingale still waiting to be greeted. I moved to have a whispered conversation with one of the Guards. Discovering that King Munin was trying to chastise his son, Prince Bryan, for visiting Kestrel last evening. I had to sigh and pretend not understanding his point which oddly gain the same comment from the Guard.

“The Prince went to the Royal Advisor to receive wise counsel.” he replied with a shrug. “I do not understand why the King is raging about such a normal action by his son.” he added. I thanked him and moved to the edge of the open wide area before the Royal Court disappearing into the early afternoon shadows. Between the vision and now the King’s outburst, this seemed to be a bad day for Kestrel to receive the Amazons’ Ambassador.

I watched in silence as the sun moved past the quarter point in the heavens before Lady Nightingale enter the grand chambers to be finally received upon Atlantis. I was given time to actually observe this Ambassador and noticed a few very odd details. Her stance and bearing was stiff and more regal than I’ve ever noticed from other ambassadors visiting Atlantis. Hand signals, whispered words, and subtle movements from her trio showed more respect and military behavior than typical servants. Lady Nightingale’s rank was very high among the Amazons.

As for her trio of servants, the two men did not act as slaves. They acted in the same free way as the woman which made me think they were free men within the Amazon society or selected husbands, like Sert was. The deference they showed the Ambassador was more than simply as servants but nearly friendly. This oddness had me watching them as closely as I watched Lady Nightingale. I will admit that at this point the fact two foreigners using bird types as names did make me chuckle. But I did find it odd that a mighty Amazon warrior held the name of a peaceful song bird. Memories of how she pulled me aside and cooed at me while keeping me calm while the stench of fear floated around me was fitting to her name.

I watched them enter as her Honor Guard took positions close to the door to wait for her return. Her exit had her smirking that I could see even if I was so far away. She hung back, waiting in the open area until Kestrel exited to join her. I noticed Prince Bryan and Deas following Kestrel as he moved to receive a wooden box from Lady Nightingale’s hands. The smile on his face was brilliant before he finally parted way with her. The four Guard Captains intercepted the Prince and friend allowing Kestrel to walk away alone. I waited until he passed my hiding spot before I moved to fall instep beside him.

“I know you have seen something dark.” I whispered softly. “Whatever you must face,...we all stand at your side, sir.” I told him.

“Thank you.” he answered. “But it is not what I must face.” he stated softly. “And none will stand other than an enemy at that moment.”

“No enemy can stand against you, Lord Kestrel.” I retorted. The sad laugh that escaped him made me more driven to encourage him.

“Only one enemy that I cannot defeat because I do not have it in me to kill her while she would be pleased to end my existence.” he admitted to me.

“Then Sert or I shall kill her for you.” I replied easily. “Then you can save all of us once she is dead.” I concluded. I felt no doubt in Kestrel’s ability to save all of us. I also had no doubts that, between Sert and myself, we could clear a path for him to save us.

“You find it all very simple.” he commented to me. All I could do was smile and shrug at him. It was not simple, just efficient thinking since Kestrel was not standing alone. He had us backing him with everything we are. “I thank you for everything you have done for me so far and what you might be forced to do for all in the future.” he added in a whisper. This sounded like a parting message which had my tail undulating wildly behind me but I kept my face and voice calm.

“It is my duty as I learn true honor from the one that all see as the most honorable in existence.” I answered. I was smiling, purring, and walking calmly while I forced my tail to wrap around my leg to prevent showing my nervous fear hidden in my heart. Our arrival home had us rushed in to the garden for tea and a chance for Meli and Sert to discover what he had seen in his vision.

I ignored the growing tensing in the room keeping my smiling mask on my face while my mind dissected our short conversation. The final words still felt like a parting speech making me worry that Kestrel was preparing to leave alone once more or worse. Meli’s question breaking the heavy silence finally pulled my mind into the present moment.

“Will you tell us what the vision was about?” she asked drawing everyone’s attention. I sipped at my cup happy that my tail undulated slowly behind me from the calming effects of just thinking things out. My internal turmoil had subsided mostly allowing me to appear calm and relaxed as I sat beside Meli.

“It had nothing to do with you.” Kestrel remarked waving it off. “It had to do with me and what I may need to face.” he continued in a calm soothing voice. “Nothing for either of you to worry about.” he concluded smiling.

“But why did they escort Redpath home?” Meli insisted. She glanced at me. I smiled back in silence to her.

“Because I pushed him away to prevent him being caught in my seizure and speaking multiple languages at the same time.” he answered calmly. His eyes meet mine for but a moment before he looked away which had my ears perking up. “I am more worried about how Prince Bryan will arrange a meeting between Lady Nightingale and Princess Sara.” he added effectively changing the subject. He did not want to explain more of what his vision had told him but now I feared it was linked to me.

“I think it is good since Princess Sara is not happy about being ignored during visits of the foreigners on Atlantis.” I reported with a half smile. The chuckle from Kestrel had me purring.

“I do not see King Munin nor our Holy Queen Annianka giving her another chance to make a scene.” he commented. It brought the memories of Captain Jäzærha and Lady Ichtaca Cuicatl arrival and presentation in the Royal Court. Princess Sara had ignored everything to latch on to the foreign woman that accompanied the Ferret Guards Captain. Everything had been thrown into turmoil by her simple action of claiming her Royal Governess. My purring turned into a chuckle as I noticed both Sert and Meli forcing themselves not to laugh. “Even if I agree, I do not see them allowing it to happen.” he added calmly.

“I am sure young Lord Bryan will find a way of making it happen.” Sert stated with a smirk. “If anyone tried, other than yourself, he can accomplish it.” he continued as his smirk grew bigger.

“And I am sure I will be the one attempting to explain it to his royal parents.” Kestrel supplied with a shrug and a chuckle. We sipped tea in a more comfortable silence until the meal arrived from the Royal Kitchens. Oddly, Lady Nightingale arrival match with our meal gaining us another guest in the garden while we ate.

“I must say that I am very impressed with this little island of yours.” she stated to Kestrel. Her eyes remained on him as she continued speaking. “I am still wondering if that knife will stay out of Munin’s body.” she sighed. The small glance I got from her eyes showed a worried state. “I am still unsure if giving it to her was proper.” she concluded. We remained silent seeing this discussion was specifically between her and Kestrel.

“You did what was needed, sweet Nightingale.” he returned softly.

“How can you be confident about this?” she snapped back. The edge of anger in her voice was not showing in her eyes.

“Why hand me the King’s Blade of Pain, instead of handing it to Munin as your Queen would have suggested.” he returned with a smirk. I must be clear that the use of the word ‘suggested’ instead of ‘ordered’ was not lost on me. All my observations gave me but one answer. This was the Amazons’ Queen playing as Ambassador to Atlantis.

“Because it is your right, Kestrel!” she growled back at him. I was already wide eyed but this had the others also stunned.

“Then the Holy Queen of Atlantis deserves to receive the true warriors knife, the Queen’s Blade, as is her right!” he replied in a firm voice. She stared at him for a few moments before changing the subject herself.

“I have received word from young Lord Bryan that has arranged an accidental meeting for me with Princess Sara.” she told us with a little grin. “After supper he will bring her with him to inspect the troops.” she added fully smiling.

“We told you he would find a way.” Meli chimed in with a giggle and smirk. Lady Nightingale placed aside her cutlery to turn towards Meli. Her face turned more set and the small box she pulled out was held in tight hands.

“I still must ask forgiveness for the actions against you while upon our land.” she sadly and formally spoke to Meli. She held out to the small box that bore a complex emblem to her. “It contains herbs of my land that have curative properties that are not indigenous to Atlantis.” she explained slowly. “Plus a weapon for the hands of an herbalist of your skills.” she added. She bowed her head low to Meli.

Big sister took the box and cautiously opened it up. She pulled out three small pouches of herbs, four packets of seed, and a silvery sickle of exquisite quality. I stared it it realizing it appeared of a greater quality than seen in Atlantis for similar herbalist tools. Meli looked at Lady Nightingale mouthing silent words.

“Seeds from the elderberry, the willow birch. And night blooming jasmine?” Kestrel asked with a small frown.

“It may be of use in the hands of a skilled and noble healer-herbalist.” the Ambassador answered with a shrug. “Night blooming jasmine is lesser poisonous than other nightshade plants.” she explained so casually.

“So long as the doses are small, it should be fine having it in your kit.” Kestrel advised Meli. I could see confusion on her face. “A bit more would be a strong sleeping aid but it does remain in the body much longer than most other plants of that nature.” he completed his explanation to her.

“And the fourth seed packet?” Meli asked in a near whisper.

“A mystery to myself, best to be researched in Atlantis than abroad.” the Amazon admitted,

“I do not recognize the seed type.” Kestrel added looking confused. I gently took the packet from Meli’s hand to sniff at it for a moment. “I would keep them well separated from all other plants until we have a better idea on what it is.” he cautioned her. My nose had given me possibilities the other seeds did not have upon them.

“They smell of fruit and excrement.” I purred softly. Lady Nightingale’s eyes moved to me as her head tilted slightly as she listened to me assessment. “They were collected from a beast’s waste or their intestines after the kill.” I continued with my eyes now closed. “Do you believe it caused the beast’s death?” I asked softly to Lady Nightingale.

“Yes, that is our fear.” she answered with a little smile. The smile grew as she turned to look at Kestrel. “You are far too lucky Kestrel having found such a great asset as you little guard cat.” I hear her whispering to him.

“Oddly, he found me because we share a name.” he replied loudly. I felt such pride and acceptance at his simple words. But something else passed between them as her eyes grew wide before she looked back at me. “I am presuming the other offer for forgiveness was considered too bloody for a healer?” he asked quietly.

“Envenom’s head and femur bone daggers sit on display before Queen Aurora Nightshade’s tent to remind others that her word is law.” she returned with a feral grin. “If Lady Melkiliean wishes, she is the only one permitted to collect them, as is her right.” she concluded, She grinned at Meli and nodded deeply to her. Big sister smiled back showing her fangs acquired from the event. I saw the Amazon holding back a laugh by biting her lower lip.

“I have received what I deserved and fitting in my case.” Meli returned with a wink. The laughter deep but wholehearted erupted from Lady Nightingale. The closeness within the name could suggest a familial linked between the Queen Nightshade and the Ambassador Nightingale but I still believed she was the Amazons’ Queen.

“Our own overprotective mother bear.” Sert commented increasing the amount of laughter floating around the garden. As the meal ended, another surprise held us all in the garden for a few more hours.