Kestrel's Journals: Cor and Twin Arrive (26)

It was nearly a year later before word arrived that the Leviathan sat waiting in the harbor of Atlantis with diplomats from Lemuria. I was running to the port to greet my two Brothers. At the halfway mark, the four Guard Captains, with a squad each at their heels, joined my rush. Meli, Sert, and Cole where far behind me now as I moved swiftly through the empty dawn streets. I was only mildly surprise to find young Kestrel already standing on the docks, waiting for us. He mouthed the words “too slow” to me as took my place beside him. I could not help chuckling as he purred.

“You could have warned me that it was a race.” I remarked to him. I waved to the Leviathan as the Captains and their troops took positions in neat rows behind me. The ship slid easily to softly touch the edge of the dock. The ropes tossed from the Leviathan crew were caught and quickly moored by the Atlantian dock hands. The gangplank magical extended to connect the ship to the dock. I noticed Redpath’s wide-eyed stare at this majestic vessel loaded with mostly stolen technology.

Captain Lockey stepped down the plank with an air between exasperated and insanity playing on her face. She stared at me for a moment before making a rude face at me. I could not hold back the laughter knowing this was one of Cor‘s and Twin’s little pranks or one of their bets. I patted her shoulder in condolences for having to perform this action. I looked up to see my Brothers peeking down at the scene half hidden by the ships rail.

“She actually did it!” Cor stated with a hint of surprise in his voice.

“I cannot believe she would do that to the first person she met.” Twin responded.

“And you could never of guessed that it would be me, you fools!” I shouted up to them. As they focused on my face, they slowly stood from behind their hiding spot. Their jaw dropped as I noticed them swallowing worriedly. They sheepishly moved slowly down the plank to stand mollified before me. “I should have warned you to never bet with these two, captain Lockey.” I added laughing.

“He’s laughing, Brother?” Cor asked perplexed.

“When and where did he find a sense of humor? Twin returned. I held up one hand to prevent any more comments from them.

“Double or nothing if you make that face to sweet Meli, once she reaches us.” I challenged Lockey. Both Brothers started nodding their head vigorously to encourage her.

“No bet, but I will do it for fun in this case.” the captain returned with a gleam of mischief in her eyes. She stood straight face as the rest of my team arrived. She greeted Sert silently before turning to face Meli. She released the rude face at my healer who looked shocked while holding back the giggle building in her throat. Sert was fast enough to prevent Lockey from collapsing to the wooden dock laughing uncontrollable by arresting her fall.

“She’s as fun as we are and we never knew.” Cor stated smirking.

“Without having lost a bet, she still has a good humor about acting silly.” Twin replied. They both started chuckling and gleefully dancing in place.

“What was that about?” Meli asked still keeping her giggle at bay before this mirthful reaction. Both Brother suddenly bounced back from Meli. Their face showed a mix of fear and confusion.

“Our fanged friend is not what you think.” I replied chuckling at them. They continued fearfully staring at Meli as she smiled sweetly at them accentuating her fanged eye-teeth.

“I win the fear bet!” Lockey screamed triumphantly. She moved towards the Brothers with a grin. “Now pay up!” she ordered as they sighed. Each of them handed over a trio of mixed crystals to her. “Now this is Meli, a trained healer of Atlantis in Kestrel’s service.” Lockey introduced her to them.

“And I am an honorary Royal Guard in Lord Kestrel’s household.” young Kestrel informed them. The Brothers looked at him then past him to the row of Royal Guards standing at attention behind their respective Captains. Their eyes still looked haunted when the glanced at Meli. Redpath quickly introduced the rest of my team to them while naming himself the ‘house cat’ as his actual position. He stood with Meli on one side, Sert on the other while Cole was beside the warrior. “We...” he stated smiling. “are Lord Kestrel’s personal retinue.” he announced purring. I found it a good sign on how he had step up to be the voice for my team.

“Brother!” Cor interjected staring once more at me.

“You have truly changed since last we met.” Twin concluded. They were examining me closer with a look of wonder on their faces. I waved their comments away with a withered look.

“You two should eventually consider growing up.” I replied. “You might learn that it not such a bad nor a serious thing.” I added winking at them. They smiled back as they violently shook their heads in negation.

“It would be no use growing up.” Cor returned.

“No fun in acting like an adult.” Twin supplied quickly.

“May I introduce Lord Corëe’ap’Ręæ and Lord Twin Feathers.” I introduced them to those present. Each bowed at their name. “Cor and Twin for short.” I added quickly.

“Well met!” the members present answered in unison.

“Select a Guard group for your visit and we will then proceed to meet the King and Holy Queen with the rest of the nobles.” I told them as the Captains stepped aside.

“Which ones did sister Nightingale and brother Chichi select?” Cor asked. He looked along the first members of each line of troops.

“Would be best to not select the same as them.” Twin explained matching his brother’s glancing pass over the troop lines.

“Lady Nightingale selected the Ursus Guards, and, as Royal Chef, Chichi has no Guards of his own.” I informed them easily. They looked surprised at Chichi not having guards to keep him out of trouble. “Our sister is taking care of him.” I whispered to them with a sneering smirk. They giggle-chuckled as they nodded before moving to look over the remaining three teams of Guards.

“I will select the Wolves.” Cor replied after a few moments. Twin looked torn between the Cats and the Ferrets.

“Can I get a mixed group?” he asked. “I just feel it unjust to leave one group out.” he explained with false shyness.

“If I said that the Felines are the chosen Guards for the Egyptians?” I returned. Since Sister Chaos was technically linked to the Egyptian deities, I had forced his choice.

“Good!” he happily interjected. “It leaves the most cunning of all the Guards for me!” he continued quickly. He nodded towards Jäz that chuckled back at his comment. The Ferret Guards remained at attention waiting for Twin to proclaim his decision. “I select the Ferrets.” he added smiling.

“As you both wish it.” I stated with a quick bow to them. “Young Lord Bryan has made arrangements that Princess Sara will be present for this greeting ceremony.” I informed all of them. All the Guards, including their Captains, stiffened visibly. “I believe she will be much better behaved than when Captain Jäzærha returned.” I explained with a shrug. “Hopefully.” I added under my breath.

“That is good to hear since we have brought gifts for our little niece.” Cor blurted out. Everyone froze as their eyes turned on him directly. The Captains glanced from my team to the Brothers.

“Why do you call the Princess your niece?” Meli asked stepping towards them. They flinched at her approach or at her hard edged smile showing her fangs. Sert and Cole looked at each other perplexed then back at Meli without moving forward. Young Kestrel had returned to my side but remained silent feigning confusion as he stared at the Brothers. They both turned to look at me.

“They do not know?” Cor asked with a smirk.

“You have kept it a secret from your own people?” Twin added. He had dramatically placed a hand on his mouth in feigned shock. I muttered most fowl curses under my breath in each of their true original languages gaining mental snickers from them.

“I am boarding my ship and ignoring what was just said.” Captain Lockey stated. She marched quickly up the gangplank to handed the half dozen crystals to one of her sailors with quick whispered words. She bellowed orders as the plank retracted and the ship drifted back to sit within the harbor to lock it down until they would be departing. The glaring eyes of Meli, Sert, and Cole now rested upon me as they waited for an answer.

“Will you explain why they would refer to Princess Sara as their niece?” Meli bluntly asked me. “Or should we ask the Holy Queen Annianka why this would be said?” she added. The hard edge in her eyes did not mask the feeling of betrayal that started growing in her mind.

“These two are like brothers to Annianka.” I replied with false calmness. “The three of them have played tricks on Loki himself while they grew up in Asgard together.” I continued my explanations. It was only a half lie but could salvage this mistake. Now the Brothers stared at me confused. “They just know her as ‘Joy’ and not as the Holy Queen Annianka.” I concluded. I had tied everything together without revealing any truth of the situation. Both Brothers’ faces light up at my words nearly ruining my ruse.

The Guard Captains looked at me now confused while glancing sideways at each other. I mentally warned Annianka that the peace Ambassadors from Lemuria will think she is ‘Joy’, her aspect living within Asgard. I added to my warning that they had brought gifts for their niece Sara without revealing what these gifts were. Her giggling assurance she would make arrangements for this to look very normal before thanking me for the warning sweetly.

“Are we ready to meet the Royals and nobles of Atlantis?” I asked smiling authentically at my special Brothers. This small slip of the tongue from Cor had open a path to improve the chances of boon for the diplomats of Lemuria. They nodded to me before marching behind the Guard Captains with their selected Guard group spread out around them. My team followed me after them while the two non-selected Guard grouping protected our rear. Many Atlantians were lining the sides of the streets to witness their greatest enemies that came from a technologically advanced society started by Odin during his youthful wondering the world to find wisdom.

The Guards walked stiffly around us since not all citizens of Atlantis were pleased of having Lemurian warmongers upon their peaceful island. Meli and myself could feel the tremors of hatred blended in held back magic by force of will alone. Some residing in Atlantis believed it would be easier to just erase Lemuria from existence than bartering a peace deal. Other saw this as a chance to change the citizens of Lemuria from the path destruction they perceive they are on. Lemuria will never be swayed from their chosen path of militaristic ideals of honor and nobility within conflicts.

The honor of two groups giving everything of themselves for one battle to decide their fate was one of the founding principles of Lemuria. They actually abhorred violence without purpose or crushing an enemy that was weaker than themselves. In most of their skirmishes between Lemuria and others of the outer world, they would hold back troops and technology to give their enemies and equal battle field. They never regretted or bemoaned a lost battle as long as they and their foes had fought with honor and nobility. They had even abandoned their own if they behaved dishonorably upon the battlefield.

The fact they were willing to speak with Atlantis and the world about peace was the doing of Cor and Twin. No one else had been able to even get close to a treaty with Lemuria. They found the diplomats and ambassadors as dishonorable and trying to take liberties they had not earned. The Brothers, War and Death, had gained the right after many years upon Lemuria to use their technologies which gave them the ability to bring the Leviathan and Lockey home. The ship could be repaired properly and refitted as the Brothers’ private vessel. No one questioned where the technology of the Leviathan came from since it was supposedly owned by Cor and Twin. Captain Lockey had no problem playing the role of an employee to those two if it gave her a chance to fully remodel the ship into a true Hunter Class ship.

As we neared the Royal Court halls, a large group of Atlantians stood barring the path. Seeing us, they sat shoulder to shoulder as a living blockade as they chanted: ‘Atlantis is no place for warmongers!’. The Brothers stepped forward fearlessly to the shock of their Guards and the Captains.

“We agree that warmongers have no place upon this island of peace and serenity.” Cor announced to them.

“Which is why we are here to bring some of this noble peaceful thinking to Lemuria to save them from the evils infesting the outer world.” Twin stated as loud as Cor had. Each brother spoke in an alternating manner from Cor to Twin.

“We ask you, no, we beg you to allow us to do this hard task.” Cor picked up their split speech.

“We beg you to allow us to past so we may do our part like your noble Lord Kestrel in saving the world.” Twin voice held true. Murmurs had started forming within the seated protesters, but they had not moved. I feared for what could happen at this moment looking into those eyes and feeling their blunt mind held against allowing them to enter the Royal Court.

“We ask for peace and promise to only show peace while upon this great island.” Cor concluded. Their words spent and only hope they could succeed crossing this sea of living bodies. Making a show of it, the Brothers removed all their weapons relinquishing them to the Captain of their chosen Guards. The crowd still glared at them but now in silence. With a bow to the crowd, the Brothers step forth to the dismay of their Guards. The step slowly and carefully between the citizen sitting to hold them back. Snaking their way through the crowd, they remain as silent as the Atlantians focusing to harm no one during their passage. No one moved to stop them or delay their movement but still Atlantian mostly glared at them. They finally paused stand upon the other side of the crowd turning back towards the living sea they had crossed.

“We thank you!” they spoke in unison.

“You have shown to us the true nobility of Atlantis by allowing us to pass peacefully.” Twin added. They both bowed towards the crowd by sections showing their respect for all of them. A small group near the middle started applauding them weakly. This applause grew and spread through to all of them that had stood against Lemuria. They continued bowing waiting for us to join them.

“They are why Lemuria has accepted the concept of peace.” I stated to the cheering crowd. “Lemuria will not be the cause of the great conflict to come.” I whispered to young Kestrel at my elbow. I did not to glance at him to see the nod he returned to me. My team started stepping forward and the crowd moved to stand and clear us a pathway to the doors to the Royal Court. I thanked them and shook their hands as I walked slowly towards the doors. I quickly noticing that Redpath repeated my words and actions of gratitude to the populous upon his side of our pathway. Regret was not what I saw, in the eyes of the crowd now, but only acceptance and a spark of hope. I turned to look back upon the crowd finding most if not all had drifted away now.

“For Atlantis, I thank all of you for your noble behavior towards those that wish for peace everywhere upon the world.” I called back loudly so those walking away knew I understood and was grateful to all of them. Only after this point did I release a sigh that was answered by a soft purring chuckle beside me. We walked in together, I standing beside Cor with young Kestrel upon Twin’s opposite side. I could not have imagined or foreseen what happened. Sister Chaos could not have created the anarchy within the Royal Court upon this day.

Redpath's Journals: Real Speed Combat and Laurels (26)

The explanation to Kestrel about the challenged I had agreed to and the request I had placed upon it was done earlier to our morning matches. He appeared worried as he asked why I wished to prove myself. As I explained that it was for not exactly for myself but for the one I was sparring against. He nodded and agreed while also requesting a chance to observe this session. I agreed but never mentioned who I was challenging at this time. My two morning sparring sessions had me only pushing my speed to match theirs. Easy with Kestrel but much harder with Sert. I found so hard not to strike at points on his body exposed because of my speed. I felt bad not giving my all but I wanted to keep my best for facing Cassis. It was the best way to show the Captains how much she had improved and became stronger combining her many skills together. The session between Sert and Kestrel had me wondering why Kestrel was holding back like I had been. My answer arrived at that moment as I turned to soft footsteps to see Nightingale approaching the edge of our private training field.

“Why do you take it easy on me today?” Sert protested. I bowed to Lady Nightingale and with flourished wave I mentioned her forward still bowing low. I saw the little smirk on her face as she stepped to the edge of the combat field.

“Because I am not the sparring partner that you need to focus upon today.” Kestrel responded casually. He motioned the Amazon forward as he moved to stand beside me on the outside of the sandy field. He waited until she had placed herself where he had stood facing Sert. “You have had a chance to learn from a chef.” he stated to him. The smirk on his face told me this was going to be a challenge for our warrior companion. “Now you will learn from a high ranked Amazon.” he added sweetly. He turned to fully face the center of the battle area before signalling the beginning of their sparring session.

I watched both of them closely nothing their stances and first attacks. They both moved fluidly from attacks to counter attacks. I notice how Sert watched her eyes since she would look at the opening which he could block before she struck. She was forcing forward her attacks but had his level pegged quickly and kept him fighting at this point. I could see from Sert’s facial contortions that he was finding hard but still not a challenge to him. After a few minutes of swift battling, they returned to their starting positions quickly bowing to each other.

“What have you learned so far, Sert?” Kestrel asked. He was keeping his face plain hiding his emotions.

“That she can fight as my equal.” Sert replied softly. “But I feel she is holding back making it much harder for me to learn anything more from fighting her.” he continued with a shrug and shy grin. I saw Lady Nightingale stiffening at his words.

“Do you truly think you can handle the full attack prowess of an Amazon warrior?” she retorted angrily. I could see the malicious urge to put this man in his place but said nothing to warn him.

“I will never know if I never face it like I have faced a chef’s rage.” he answered calmly. He bow low before her in the supplicant pose with arms held wide away from his body. “To truly learn, one must face the full force even if it renders me into a giant crawling bruise.” he added before rising from his bow. The Amazon glanced at Kestrel for permission. Scratching at his chin pensively, he shrugged then slowly and hesitantly nodded. The feral grin on her face was the only warning I received before she charged at Sert.

Her speed made her form blur to my eyes at first but returned quickly to normal as I clearly saw her hand snap out open palmed to force Sert’s weapon to fly away from him. She slipped to her back with both knees at her stomach and feet targeted for his sternum. The kick was like a crack of thunder before Sert was lifted to fly backwards towards the second level of our home. The fact that the hit had also rendered Sert naked paled as it had him smacking posterior first in Meli’s window. The shrieks I heard from beyond that window had me falling over laughing as I remember that Meli was having a tea event that day. I was rolling in the dirt on the ground from my uncontrollable laughter. I barely heard what was exchanged between Kestrel and Lady Nightingale during my fit of laughing. I started regaining my senses as Chichi appeared in the open doorway looking confused at the sight.

“What’s with the naked man and the laughing cat acting like a swine?” he asked as I slowed my breathing to stop laughing.

“I hit him so hard that he lost his clothing.” the Amazon replied. The smirk and raised eyebrow as she turned to face him slowly walking forward. “Want to try your luck against me, Brother Famine?” She asked in a deeper husky voice, The moment she licked her lips, Kestrel was throwing himself out of Chichi way. The little chef pounced forward directly at her with a leery grin on his face. It took less time than the original practice session with Sert to have Chichi on his back as she straddled his shoulders. I glanced over to see Sert working his way down the wall to hide behind bushes at the side of our private training field. “Shall we finish this in private or do you wish to give everyone a good show?” her husky deep whisper reached my ears.

“Private now!” the little chef screamed from under her privates that nearly resting on his face. She moved to her feet pulling him up with her to rush toward the exit. A rustle from the bushes had me watching Sert walking out full dressed again.

“I must believe our sparring session is over with for today, sir?” he asked. He had a sheepish boyish grin on his face.

“Yes, but we get to see young Kestrel going all out before the Guard Captains and the Leader of the Prides.” he answered chuckling. I was finally standing shaking and pawing off the dirt from my fur and off my leather armor. I was smiling at them suddenly excited once more over this chance to truly move at my full speed.

“I will be sparring with Cassis and we both want to try reaching our ultimate celerity.” I told them. “I also requested that we are judged by those five to define our level rank within the Royal Guards.” I continued as I started prancing towards the door. I did not bother hiding my rapidly flicking tail showing my excitement for this pleasurable session.

“Cassis?” Kestrel asked. I could feel his eyes on me. “A cougar wind mage that should not be linked to the military?” he continued sounding confused.

“Yes!” I replied smiling broader. “Wind is not good for building or healing so she returned to gain marshal training.” I explained remembering he had meet her long ago. “But her and Toma did discover a new way to heighten yield and easier blending using fire and wind together.” I continued easily. “And they make a good team and couple.” I concluded purring. We took the side path that lead us directly to the training field.

“You have meet Toma and Cassis, but not Peles, Toma’s older brother?” he asked softly. I looked at him shaking my head. I tried remembering if another face had been in the crowd during the times I would spend training with Cassis while Toma watched us.

“Only Toma has come to Cassis training and our sparring sessions.” I answered slowly.

“Sounds like you have been making many friends upon Atlantis.” he said quietly. I nodded smiling as I purred merrily.

I marched to stand with Cassis at one side of Valeria as we faced the four Captains. With but a pointed clawed finger, Valeria signaled us to the field. I spotted from the corner of my eye Toma and another young man moving to stand with Kestrel and Sert. I marched beside Cassis towards the center of the battle field.

“That is Toma’s brother Peles?” I whispered to her. She quickly glanced back to nod at me smiling. I nodded before we reached the middle point. We turned to face each other locking arms like brothers’ in arms. Three steps backward we bowed at each other and froze waiting for the command to start. Valeria strode to the form a triangle with us to stand perfectly straight. We both straightened into a military precise attention.

“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 Queen’s Knight of her majesty Queen Diadem of Helvetius Kingdom.” Valeria proclaimed as we stood in 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. “As is their right, we stand in judgment and as observers to their skills, abilities, and proving their rank among the Royal Guards.” she concluded. The cheers from the Captains in the form of roars, howls, grunts, and high pitched chitterlings filled the air. She stepped backward three large steps and signaled us to start.

We moved in unison into an attack posture unable to stop smiling at each other. This was just another moment to play with a friend for both of us no matter the pomp and ceremony that introduce us to all that could hear. I spotted the shifting light as Cassis gathered the winds around her while my breath lowered to slow shallow focused breathes. A wink from me signaled my readiness and we launched at each other. Strike, block, counter, cross-counter, dodge, and back to a strike as we pushed our speed to its limits while smiling at each other. The waves of sounds of our palms, elbows, knees, and feet hitting against the other’s block pulsed away from us while we continued pushing for more speed.

Pure focus kept us from leaving the smallest of openings or making any mistake in this dance with an ever increasing tempo. Nothing beyond the fight moved or made a noise as we smiled and enjoyed this matching of our celerity and combat styles that I knew would amaze all the spectators. For but a moment Cassis had four hands before I realized so did I. After images of our motions increased as a nod between us accepted to push our speed to even a higher level. The noise of our strike to the other’s block throbbed away from us overlapping waves of sounds. I could hear Cassis merry giggling as I knew she heard my purring chuckles. Time did not matter to us as we reveled in finally pushing beyond our celerity limits into blissful fantasy.

I saw the glint in her eyes and was ready to see what she was about to attempt we had not faced before. The sand under her feet swirled in a mad miniature tornado as she started lifting off the ground. I changed my targeting to give myself upward momentum to match her windy wings. It was a slow rise for us but I felt the spectators were watching us launching upward as we continued at the limits of our celerity. Then the shout came. We tapped palms instantly to bounce back to our starting point. Breathing hard, we looked at each other smiling, giggling, and chuckling happily.

“We have seen enough.” Valeria called without looking at us. We turned slowly and started a procession towards those who would judge us.

“I thought I could get you when I raised from the battle ground but you actually kept up without touching the ground.” Cassis shrieked and giggled beside me.

“That was amazing and I did not realize we could float while battling.” I yowled back still chuckling.

“You are absolutely unbelievable” Toma and Peles screamed while chuckling as we turned to face Valeria’s back. We clasped arms once more as we tried to calm ourselves. The rest was a blur of sounds being drown by my heartbeat and heavy breathing.

“Cassis Dēn! Kestrel of the Redpath clan!” Valeria stated loudly. “Approach and stand at attention!” she ordered having both of us straighten into a perfect military stance. She turned finding us already present and waiting while smiling at her. “That was absolutely insanity!” she snapped at us. Our smile faltered. “You have gone beyond any possible limits we have believe possible.” she reported. A side glance without turning my head had me looking into Cassis’ sparkling eye. “Until today.” Valeria added softly smiling. The smiles returned to our faces fully. The roaring mix of laughter from The Captains nearly had me chuckling once more but I held it in as well as Cassis was doing. Our stiff posture relaxed just a bit as we now waited for the ranking judgment.

“As Captain of the Feline Guards, you are both exemplary warriors.” Curd told us. It was simple and subtle but for Captain Curd to give a true compliment was impossible. I waited for the derisive back lash. “You are both ranked as top members of the Feline Royal Guards.” he stated. The salute and deep bow had me amazed to silence as we returned the salute and bow to him.

“As Captain of the Ursus Guards, I have no words that can convey my amazement at your performance as warriors.” Rez rumbled at us with a half smile. “The Ursus Royal Guards see both of you as equals to our greatest members.” he continued in the same gruff voice. The salute he gave us was clean and crisp, but his bow was not so. Cassis started lifting her hand to speak but a single look from Valeria had her hand dropping to her side. I saw how she flexed her hands nervously not used to receiving compliment from anyone but Toma.

“As Captain of the Lupus Guards, I fear facing either of you on the field of battle.” Ent admitted eyeing both of us. “You both are ranked within the greatest and most powerful warriors of the Lupus Royal Guards.” he proclaimed in a howl. His hard swift salute was followed with him exposing the back of his neck to us. Captain Ent would never show submission to anyone unless they defeated him in battle. He accepted we could defeat him with this one action.

“As Captain of the Ferret and Outcast Guards, you have skills beyond the natural order.” Jäz said to us. He was passive as he looked at us. “The Ferret Royal Guards greet you as sister and brother to any and all our families as equals and most honored members.” he concluded softly. His salute was slow, formal, and fluid never looking away from us. His snake hunters’ bow to us had me shivering. He was greeting us as his own kin and kind not just as equals, but true family.

“As Leader of the Prides, I have seen and accept your rank as true Felines of the highest quality.” Valeria told us directly. “I cannot wait to face either of you upon the next Pride Hunt, even if I may lose my title of Leader.” she added smiling slyly at us. She only bowed showing all her shock and awe at our skills. Cassis tails lashed out like a madly undulation viper.

“Wait!” she snapped out suddenly. I could see the wild emotions swirling in her eyes and the wind dying around her. “We are considered fully ranked in the top tier of all four Royal Guard groupings?” she sputtered out. Her breath was fast short breathes as her fist clenched at her chest. I moved to stand before her as Toma and Peles moved to her sides. They each grasped one of her fists forcing them open to tightly hold her hands.

“Breath in deeply and count to three, my love.” Toma told her quietly and soothingly.

“Release the breathe slowly out with another three count.” Peles returned calmly. I recognized this as a breathing exercise to calm her down. My thought was different but what she needed to hear the most presently.

“You deserve being praised with all you have done, Cassis.” I reminded her gently. Her breathing slowed until it returned to normal as the gleam of wild madness faded from her eyes. She giggled as she nodded while tears of joy filled her eyes. She looked at me suddenly glaring. She had discovered why I had made my request and why I had suggested to her having the Captains witness us sparring.

“You made that request on purpose to force this to happen, Red!” she yowled at me. I purred and chuckled while suffering her glares. I could see in both young men’s eyes they understood what had happened. A small smirk was on their face as they looked back to her in silence.

“I was taught to help my friends see themselves and for others to see them as they truly are valued.” I told her. The smirk on my face earned me more time under her dark glare. “I knew they would see how all your effort and work had made you an asset to all of Atlantis.” I moved forward as the glare lessened. I saluted her and bowed the proper feline fluid style. “And it gives you another option of teaching others to combine their magic to become even more valuable for all of Atlantis.” I concluded. Her eyes filled with tears of merry mischievousness. I gave a quick nod to Toma, Cassis, and Peles before walking away to join Kestrel and Sert.

“Sir? Sert?” I called out to them as the stared at me in silence.

“You have proven yourself perfectly, my feline shadow.” Kestrel stated. His smile was like the sunshine for me.

“You will have to stop holding back when we spar.” Sert told me smirking. “I will not improve without truly being challenged.” he added with a shrug.

“I will but I will give you a chance to adapt.” I replied purring deep in my throat.

“I believe you have earn time in the market place.” Kestrel told me. “Take Cassis, Toma, and Peles with you and teach them about the wonderful food of the outside world.” he suggested chuckling. He held out a pouch to me, nodded to me, and I claimed it from his hand. I turned to rush back to my friends finding Cassis trapped in a double hug. I held out the pouch in front of them gaining myself confused looks.

“We celebrate at the Market Place.” I told them. “Our first stop is a place that sell the most wonderful treat you have tasted.” I added smiling and purring.

“What treat?” Peles asked softly.

“Roasted meat on a stick, of course.” I returned chuckling. Cassis and Toma started laughing while Peles eyes went from one to the other still confused. “I can explain why, while we walk there.” I assured him. I lead the way with Cassis and Toma on my one side and Peles on my other side. I glanced at their faces and realized how much we were all the same. Each had found their own path while helping each other and not judging each other badly. We spent the rest of the day going from different food stalls and drink stalls laughing and talking taking one day away from stress and worry. After walking them home, I strolled back home feeling so happy and relaxed.

“I hear a congratulation is deserved.” A deep growl had me stopping by a shadow. The mildest hint of sulfur touched my nose. I started chuckling softly turning toward the shadow to see twin burning red eyes. “And he does not attack or act aggressive this time.” Steel added slowly moving out of the shadow.

“We are friends, no need to worry about fighting.” I answered smiling a him. I held out my arm for a greeting. The barking laugh escaped him as we locked arms. “Two young, unknown, and underestimated felines gained top ranks from all the Royal Guard Captains.” I told him softly. “I do not need congratulations after that much praise was placed on my shoulders.” I added.

“You have earned the praise, Now accept a friend saying that you are admirable.” the wolf-boy demon replied. “Word is spreading fast that we have a pair of flying cats on Atlantis now.” he continued laughing. “My praise is that the free demonized beast see you as one of ours.” he added. And with another lingering barking laugh, he stepped back into the shadows and blinked away.

“Thank you, Steel.” I whispered. I completed my walk home purring softly with only a soft squawk over head telling me I had my feathered friend still nearby. Once more i realized, the fact it did not attack nor give me a warning must mean it knows that I was safe.

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.