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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“True!” Famine interjected.

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

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

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

“And of us three?” Famine asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redpath's Journals: Family Gathering and Peace (28)

I barely noticed when they moved from between Kestrel and myself to suddenly be at the Queen’s dais. Her Guards were in position to block them but they remained standing in front of her dais. Any hopes of keeping this introduction of the Ambassadors to the Royal Court was gone as they spoke.

“Hello sister!” they both shrieked merrily. The Queen giggled then laughed outright to these two. The groan from Kestrel beside me and how all the color was draining in the King’s face had me groaning as well.

“Play any good tricks on Loki since I have been gone, my brothers? she asked giggling childishly. The nobles looked at each other and their Queen confused and shocked at this new personality her majesty showed. Munin paling face added widening eyes locked on the two brothers. It was not just shock, but fear I smelled from our pretend King.

“No, but we got Lockey to make a rude face at Kestrel!” Cor commented. Her giggling was accompanied with kicking feet like a child at these words. “He actually laughed!” he exclaimed loudly.

“You must have been working on his sense of humor since he’s arrived here, sister.” Twin remarked. A strangle gasp escaped the King drawing their attention on him.

“Did we not paint him blue at one point?” Cor teased while looking at the King.

“I believe we did.” Twin replied. His eyes were locked on the King as well. “I hope you did not take it too seriously, little Munin.” he added. A soft mischievous chuckle passed between the brothers as they took a sliding step towards him. King Munin flinched as he straightened on his throne. The brothers continued to tell stories of the tricks the trio of them had played upon the Asgardian. The mirth was contagious as the nobles started laughing with them about the many adventures this trio had before coming to this world while growing up.

The King was the only one immune to this merriness. I could see him tensing, smelled the fear of these two, and his nervous shivers whenever the brothers glanced at him. With a final humph from the King, he stood to rush from the hall. Shal was giggling under her cloak trying but failing to hide it. I felt her eyes meeting mine as she nodded to me before following the King away from this happy family reunion. I shrugged to Kestrel when he glanced at me simply letting my purring chuckle blend with all the other signs of joy in this Royal Court.

“Enough you two.” the Queen chided them. She had waited for the King to leave and the mirth to fill the room. “You are here on serious business and not a simple family reunion.” she reminded them. Her voice did not hold the seriousness she normally spoke with. It was joyful and playful while still getting respect from all. I looked away from them to gaze at Lord Kestrel. The smile on his face was like a sun and not what now was a shadow previously shown to us. Like the Queen, he was filled with true happiness from these two Ambassadors that both called brothers.

“Can we give our gifts to our niece now, or should we wait?” Cor suggested softly.

“Now would be fine so Princess Sara can return to play and learn with the other children of Atlantis.” she replied casually. I heard Kestrel choke at these words while the nobles stiffened with confusion as I had done. I did not need to look behind me to know Sert, Meli, and Cole had reacted to this in the same tensed manner. I ignored the gifts closely looking at each of the nobles trying to see if they noticed this falsehood as easily as we had. This could be for the benefit of our guest but it felt wrong since her voice held firm belief. I would have to ask Miss Hope about this false reality the Queen believed her secluded daughter lived under. I did notice the wooden blocks of foreign letters and the odd wooden handled sling and polished white stones gifted to Princess Sara. I did not find it odd but very practical gift for a child even if I felt they were below the Princess’ actual maturity. This was followed by another hour of bantering of tricks and deeds in Asgard before their plan was spoken to the crowd.

“With Lemuria seen as a warmonger in the outer world while Atlantis stand for peace-making.” Cor stated calmly to the room.

“If they wish to change this, they must accept disarming their advanced weapons by removing the power crystals.” Twin remarked casually. I saw the Queen ready to object being held silence with a hand each raised towards her. I could see the glare in her eyes as she remained silent.

“It is only their weapons that make the humans and non-humans fear them.” Cor reinforced this thought.

“But their defenses do not need to be removed leaving them safe even if the majority of their attack weapons are rendered powerless.” Twin assured them. The queen shook her head.

“And would they agree to allow themselves placed in such a weak position?” her majesty asked doubtfully.

“I believe that their honor of an equal combat would make it impossible for them to resist such a treaty.” Kestrel remarked. The brother nodded vigorously in agreement.

“It will just take time for them to see it that way.” Cor returned with a shrug.

“We will continue slowly insinuating this idea into the minds of their people.” Twin added with a bow to her majesty.

“We just have a problem with where the crystals could be sent to keep them safely off Lemuria without placing them in Atlantis.” Cor pipped in softly.

“They would never agree handing crystals that could be used for Atlantis to attack them while they are effectively defenseless.” Twin returned with a shrug.

“This treaty is to make the world feel safer, yes?” Kestrel asked. I noticed the instantaneous glare that disappeared as quickly as it appeared. “Would separating the crystals be against their ideologies?” he added smoothly.

“I cannot see it as being a problem since only Atlantis could potentially use the crystals against them.” Cor replied as a smirk formed on his face.

“A great honorable peace offer on their part to hand the crystals to the ones that fear them the most.” Twin concluded the thought Kestrel had started.

“Giving such power into the hands of the humans and non-humans might not be wise.” Annianka stated slowly.

“The non-humans are not the major ones that need to be appeased by such an action.” Kestrel returned. “The crystals would be of no use to them since they lack the technology to use them.” he explained softly. “Peace would be possible as long as the humans accept and believe that Lemuria has actually disarmed itself fully.” he warned them.

“Which would be our job to make them see the light.” Cor accepted smiling.

“It might take longer doing this than convincing the Lemurian to hand the crystals over.” Twin informed them.

“A stipulation in the treaty they sign forcing them to not send them to Atlantis.” Annianke commented. “When we sign the treaty with Lemuria, we would back it by reporting any attempts as part of the treaty.” she added smirking at them.

“Everyone gets something and peace becomes a reality in this world.” Kestrel surmised. “I believe it can be accomplished without exerting force from either Atlantis or Lemuria, other than gentle words of wisdom.” he added with a nod and smile.

“Does this mean we have to leave right away?” Cor whined.

“You must still present these ideas to the Council of Atlantis.” Kestrel stated with a sigh.

“And a formal visit to the island is in order for such dignitaries.” the Queen returned.

“I or Meli would be ready to give them a tour of Atlantis while you prepare the Council for their visit tomorrow.” Sert called out. I hide my purring snicker that they had remained silent throughout the discussion.

“I am certain we can show them many things without exposing them to any real secrets.” Meli added with a smile. They flinched but it was a weaker reactions without the original fear I smelled off them earlier.

“And a Royal Celebratory Banquet would be needed before your departure after meeting with the Council.” Annianka stated happily. “Chef Chichi would have all our heads if we forgot to give him a chance to show off.” she added with a smirk. Laughter filled the room even if some was forced by her comment. We walked with the brothers to the doors before leaving them leave with Sert, Meli, and their selected Guard division. Prince Bryan and Deas, accompanied the brothers suggesting a chance for them to see the training fields. We who remained headed towards the Council Chambers walking side by side.

“You have been uncommonly quiet, Cole.” Kestrel remarked during our walk. We were just passed the mid point before this started. “Any problems?” he added.

“You have shown much advanced political understanding while upon Atlantis.” he mentioned while nodding his head. “Unless the Council is having another ‘absent’ moment, they should accept the ideas fully without complaints.” he explained. He had been slowing since he started talking and we both kept our place beside him. “It is the time table that they might want a clearer details about.” he added softer.

“Patience is the greatest political gift and tool anyone can have in this case.” Kestrel returned. “They will be kept updated as events unfold to smooth over any snags Atlantis might be in position to help.” he added. Cole stopped walking. Kestrel paused next to him while I moved ahead to form a tight triangle for us to talk in quiet voice. I did take a chance to look around us but saw no one within hearing range.

“Will it work?” Cole blurted out. I looked at him understanding why he was asking but feigned confusion. “Does your gift help you know if this is in vain or not?” he clarified his thoughts. Kestrel shrugged at him.

“The future is a malleable thing and not set in stone with the exception of a few key moments that tie the known past with the possible future.” he informed him. “Atlantis must face one of these knots with or without peace attained.” he concluded quietly. Cole looked at him slightly shock at this revelation.

“Can we not unravel these knots to stop them from happening?” I asked pensively. “Or make them easier to face?” I countered as I tried understanding this concept. It felt important for me understanding all of this. I knew how much I wanted to be like Kestrel but this was not the reason I wanted to understand this aspect of him.

“They are moments of great decisions created long before even I existed.” he told us. This was more than I thought he would reveal in front of Cole, but I listened as closely as Cole did. “The outcome of the knots can be changed if the right beings are in the right place at the moment the knot arrives.” he briefly explained. “My gift might help me see the knots coming and give me hints of whom are needed to face it, but not how it might turn out because freewill exists in this world.” he added. I saw his shoulders slumping slightly at his final admission.

With nothing more than a quick look, we moved back into position next to Kestrel. I walked at his right while Cole strode on his left as we continued to the Council Chambers. My mind mostly worked on Kestrel’s words and all the oddities I had met since joining his household. A shift had taken place since he, from Meli’s recounting, released his power to save a child suffering from the plague. Meli added healing and reinforcing herbs to the tea she served to Kestrel without telling him. Sert had been holding back in his own way during sparring sessions against him. Our private discussions were mostly about what was possibly going to happen in ours and Atlantis’ future. Discussions with Cole have been beyond political ideals but focusing on the future. He had allowed me to learn more about the events taking place within the Council and did not ask for my silence about it.

My steps may have been light but my mind felt heavy with all these thoughts and possible futures we might reach. I had pushed myself to improve to the point of being seen as a true Royal Guard at barely a hundred years old. I had wandered Atlantis in the evening meeting others, making friends, making allies, all to be better in serving Kestrel. I sometimes thought I had gone beyond simply trying to be helpful by dealing with issues with only a whispered word. All these thought simmered in my head as we reached to the doors of the Council Chambers.

Kestrel's Journals: Chaos in the Court (27)

As we walked in, I should have grabbed Cor and hoped young Kestrel stopped Twin but... The Brothers shot forward directly to the front of Annianka’s dais with her Guards in position to block them. Annianka was already giggling ignoring the improprieties of their actions. Munin’s face had paled upon seeing them.

“Hello sister!” they chimed together. Annianka giggles turned into true laughter. She had received the memories of them from ‘Joy’ and could easily match her merry mischievous nature around these two adoptive brothers.

“Play any good tricks on Loki since I have been gone, my brothers?” she asked with childish glee. The nobles in the room looked stunned, confused, and shocked at this sudden shift in their Queen. Munin eyes went from her to the Brothers as his face turned white in shock and terror.

“No, but we got Lockey to make a rude face at Kestrel!” Cor told her. She giggled and kicked her feet as the images of this event filled her mind. “He actually laughed about it!” he continued. The shock was clear in his voice as he spoke.

“You must have been working on his sense of humor since he’s arrived here, sister.” Twin returned proudly. A strangle gasp from Munin drew their attention to him.

“Did we not paint him blue at one point?” Cor asked teasingly.

“I believe we did.” Twin answered. “I hope you did not take it too seriously, little Munin.” he concluded. They took a sliding step towards him as Munin flinched before straightening on his throne.

I stood rubbing my temple as the three of than banter about the long list of dirty tricks they had played upon the Asgardian while growing up there together. The mirth of the stories swayed the nobles to a normal relaxed and jovial mood. Munin only grew more tense and leery until he stood and slink away. I notice Lady Shala look pass me to nod at young Kestrel while her shoulder shook from giggles. I received a shrug from the feline when I glanced at him. I started laughing at how easy it was to dismiss Munin from important discussions. Young Kestrel purring chuckle floated around next to me as I reigned in my mirth.

“Enough you two.” Annianka reprimanded them once Munin had left. “You are here on serious business and not a simple family reunion.” she corrected them. She still giggled eyeing them mirthfully. This oddness was not the ‘Joy’ act but the Annianka I met upon my first arrival on Atlantis and it warmed my heart. It was rare to see her smile since the forced married to Munin.

“Can we give our gifts to our little niece now, or should we wait?” Cor asked.

“Now would be fine so Princess Sara can return to play and learn with the other children of Atlantis.” she replied easily. I choked and straighten as these words. She motioned Ichcui and Sara to move closer. Sara peeked shyly through her hair at them as she took a shaky step towards them holding out her hands. My mind was only noticing Sara on the edge of my vision while looking at the Queen. I could not understand why she believed Sara was freely going to school and playing with others. This was either an act for the nobles or she did not know the sheltered life her daughter was forced to endure. I would have to see who or what was behind this seclusion order placed upon my daughter.

Cor took a slow step forward before dropping onto a knee before Sara. He held out a box wrapped in silken brightly colored paper and a large red bow. She quickly pulled the ribbon off to open the box. The lid popped open revealing well crafted wooden blocks with the symbols that represented letters of different languages of the world. She smiled up at him saying her thanks. Luckily she did not call him ‘Uncle War’ while thanking him. She placed the box aside with a silly sly smile as she played the perfect child role for all present. She returned to stand before Twin that had already knelt on one knee. He held out a leather wrapped bundle and a small finely made soft leather pouch. She opened the bundle to reveal a skillfully made advanced sling and the pouch held polished round stones to be used as projectiles. Sara giggled thanking him but warning him she can’t use it inside. She handed the sling to Ichcui while placing the sling stones in the box with the blocks. My only confusion was why Brother War handed her a toy while Brother Death gave her a weapon.

After about another hour of silly banter from the Brothers to the assemble nobles and the Queen, they finally settled into explaining their plans for peace regarding Lemuria. While the world seemed to worship Atlantis as a centre of diplomacy and peace, the world thought of Lemuria as an advanced warmongering society. The fastest way for the world to change their view would be the removal of the crystals powering the weapons of Lemuria effectively rendering them equal to all others. Annianka nearly screamed her protest to this plan if her brothers had not held up their hands to forestall her objections. They quickly explained that the crystals used to power the defenses of Lemuria itself would still be present allowing them to protect themselves just not attack their enemies with superior technologies.

“And would they agree to allow themselves placed in such a weak position?” Annianka asked bewildered.

“I believe that their honor of an equal combat would make it impossible for them to resist such a treaty.” I remarked. Both Brothers nodded violently their agreement.

“It will just take time for them to see it that way.” Cor stated.

“We will continue slowly insinuating this idea into the minds of their people.” Twin commented with a bow.

“We just have a problem with where the crystals could be sent to keep them safely off Lemuria without handing them to Atlantis.” Cor remarked softly.

“They would never agree handing crystals that could be used for Atlantis to attack them while they are effectively defenseless.” Twin returned with a shrug.

“This treaty is to make the world feel safer, yes?” I asked gaining dark glares. “Would separating the crystal be against their ideology?” I moved the thought forward ignoring them.

“I cannot see it as being a problem since only Atlantis could potentially use the crystals against them.” Cor returned. The spark of my indirect suggestion turning into an ideal plan in their mind.

“A great honorable peace offer on their part to hand the crystals to the ones that fear them the most.” Twin finally giggling.

“Giving such power into the hands of the humans and non-humans might not be wise.” Annianka countered.

“The non-humans are not the major ones that need to be appeased by such an action.” I corrected her gently. “The crystals would be of no use to them since humans lack the technology to use them.” I explained slowly. “Peace would be possible as long as the humans accept and believe that Lemuria has actually disarmed itself fully.” I cautioned them.

“Which would be our job to make them see the light.” Cor agreed directly.

“It might take longer doing this than convincing the Lumurian to hand the crystals over.” Twin reminded us.

“A stipulation in the treaty they sign forcing them to not send them to Atlantis.” Annianka told us. “When we sign the treaty with Lemuria, we would back it, by reporting any attempts as part of our treaty.” she concluded with a smirk.

“Everyone gets something and peace becomes a reality in this world.” I said solemnly. “I believe it can be accomplished without exerting force from either Atlantis or Lemuria, other than words of wisdom.” I concluded with a smile and a nod.

“Does this mean we have to leave right away?” Cor grumbled.

“You must still present these ideas to the Council of Atlantis.” I reminded him.

“And a formal visit to the island is in order for such dignitary.” Annianka commented.

“I or Meli would be ready to give them a tour of Atlantis while you prepare the Council for their visit tomorrow.”Sert suggested finally speaking.

“I am certain we can show them many things without exposing them to any real secrets.” Meli chimed in smiling. The flinched from my Brothers was less now from seeing her fangs.

“And a Royal Celebratory Banquet would be needed before your departures after meeting with the Council.” Annianka reminded us merrily. “Chef Chichi would have all our heads if we forgot to give him a chance to show off.” she explained herself.

The laughter filled the Royal Court from her simple comment. The Brothers left the Royal Court with Sert, Meli, and Bryan with Deas in tow. This allowed them to visit the training facilities from different groups of Guards upon the island. I headed for the Council with Cole and young Kestrel to inform them of the visit and treaty ideas that would be presented to them.

“You have been uncommonly quiet Cole.” I asked while we walked. “Any problems?” I casually suggested.

“You have shown much advanced political understanding while upon Atlantis.” he replied with a nod of his head. “Unless the Council is having another ‘absent’ moment, they should accept the ideas fully without complaints.” he continued. His pace had slowed but not stop. “It is the time table that they might want a clearer details about.” he informed me.

“Patience is the greatest political gift and tool anyone can have in this case.” I replied casually. “They will be kept updated as events unfold to smooth over any snags Atlantis might be in position to help.” I added softly. His feet stopped as Redpath moved ahead for us to form a triangle.

“Will it work?” Cole asked bluntly. Young Kestrel looked confused by his direct question. “Does your gift help you know if this is in vain or not?” he corrected his question. I sighed and shrugged at him.

“The future is a malleable thing and not set in stone with the exception of a few key moments that tie the known past with the possible future.” I replied in a soft whisper. “Atlantis must face a one of these knots with or without peace attained.” I added. The confidence the feline had shown towards Cole had me allowing more information to be given to him.

“Can we not unravel these knots to stop them from happening?” Redpath purred out softly. “Or make them easier to face?” he added slowly. I knew this was him becoming prepared to accept my energy within him to be the new Brother Order.

“They are a moment of great decisions created long before even I existed.” I supplied calmly. “The outcome of the knots can be changed if the right beings are in the right place at the moment the knot arrives.” I explained easily. “My gift might help me see the knots coming and give me hints of whom are needed to face it, but not how it might turn out because freewill exists in this world.” I concluded.

They glanced at each other and fell back in place as we returned to our path toward the Council Hall. I could sense so many changes in all of retinue since I faced the shard of the Heartstone and what lay within it. They had all become to see beyond Atlantis and wanting to fix the world to avoid negative futures. To do this, they wanted to know more information about what was coming. I suspected they had discussed about my moment of weakness and how difficult it had been for me to finally recover. I knew Cole would not be facing the darkness but safely away from Atlantis at the dreaded day.

I also knew he was doing his best to have those here turned into powerhouses to fight in his place. He was the one that forced the Council Guards to start training with the Royal Guards and having mixed patrols to learn from each other. The Militia Reserve was a combination of Sert and Cole ideas while Meli and him had worked to get basic medical training for all the Guards of Atlantis. A pale replacement but their strength grew while mine dwindled. My own ending was feeling like it approached faster, as each time I used my powers, the infection killing my spirit and soul ate more of me away. Another twelve to twenty years and I would not be able to use the smallest gift without collapsing from exhaustion. I refrain putting full power forward but few would have noticed as I tried remaining on Atlantis lately. At the moment before true death takes me, I will release my gifts and knowledge into Redpath as the Ley’ä’Luna have shown me. Nothing of myself would be left after that moment when I can join in nothingness with she whom I love, my Lyra.

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.