“Redpath's Journals: Dodging Kestrel's Steps” (4)

Lord Kestrel spoke bluntly to Sert and Meli before forcing his way through the streets of Atlantis with a dozen mixed Feral Guards clearing a path for him. I followed him to the doors of our Holy Highness' prison and before any could notice, I slipped in with him keeping tightly to the shadows. I nearly crashed into his legs as he stopped suddenly in the doorway to the Holy Queen's private garden. I glanced passed him noting what had stopped his steps.

The Queen slept on the grass like a child after playing too long in the sun. Miss Hope stood too clearly visible or this to be a feigned slumber by Her Holiness. The tigress turned slowly to gaze at Lord Kestrel making me dodge deeper into the dark shadows within the hallway. I watched in silence as she moved with perfect feline grace and quietness to join him at the doors. I fell back from shadow to shadow as Miss Hope lead Lord Kestrel back to the foyer whispering words to him.

“They want the ones that broke away turned into an example?” he asked directly. “Destroyed?” he added coldly. I shivered in the shadows at the hard edge frost in Lord Kestrel's voice. I remembered watching the carnage he levelled upon them during his visit.

“They are being called rebels that have broken their Fairy Oath.” the tigress replied tensely. “They have spoken about the many treatises signed with Atlantis making this Her duty to exterminate them.” she concluded growling darkly. I felt I had betrayed them by not having the information in their hands before all this could turn rotten.

“Where does the Council stand on this matter?” he returned without even glancing at her.

“They feel like the Fairies are over stepping themselves and should be the ones crushed under Atlantian heels.” she growled back.

“Which places them in the right as the Rebel Fairies claim a conspiracy afoot to take Atlantis.” he reported in a whisper. His words had Miss Hope growling and cursing in disbelief and anger. “If Annianka bows to their will in this matter, then she is handing them the reigns of Atlantis.” he told her. “If they persist to drag Atlantis into their drama, break the treaties with them and throw the winged little arses off Atlantis en mass.”

“And cause a civil war within the Fairy Nation?” she rebuked him. “Turning other non-humans against Atlantis?” she added bluntly.

“A show of Atlantian Power and Integrity might be in order.” he suggested. His face turned into a feral mask as purely animalistic as any of the Feral Guards gone rabid. “Send me their representatives in the morning and get all this renegotiated in Atlantis' favor.” he ordered. He grinned like a hyena about to gorge itself on easy prey.

“We cannot afford a diplomatic incident between us and them at this time.” she growled at him.

“They face the Envoy of the Ones On High who is negotiating the new treaty between them and Atlantis.” he scowled at her. He did not listen to what followed as he walked away but I heard her words of warning.

“Without knowing how deep this conspiracy goes, we might be walking directly into their hands with this idea of yours.” she roared at his retreating back. I pounced behind him as Miss Hope turned to return to her charge sleeping peacefully in the garden. Once more I nearly crashed into his legs as he had stopped to face the viper Cole. I smelt the acrid staleness of perspiration wafting from Cole as he stood alone bravely facing off with Lord Kestrel. I did, for a moment, hope that this would be his day to die at Kestrel's hands but this was unfortunately not that day.

“Our friends in the Council wish me to convey gratitude for your actions.” the viper stated. They knew what Lord Kestrel had done but glorified his debauchery. “We have kept the others in the dark since they are mostly secluded in an attempt to find a loop hole in the treatises to refuse the Fairy Nation's demands.” They stood nearly nose to nose making me think Cole would lose his face to Kestrel teeth as he bit his head clean from his body. Blood pumped faster in my veins as the possibly seemed closer for Cole's early demise.

“Tell them if they acquiesce to the Fairies' requests, they may as well give them full authority over Atlantis.” he snarled in his face. Cole stepped back as his eyes showed too much white suddenly. “I will renegotiate all the treaties in the morning if the Fairies still wish to remain in favor with Atlantis.” he ordered bluntly to him. “Warn our friends that it will be aggressive negotiations so some may be injured, maimed, and even killed to make a point to those fluttering parasites.” He moved to walk away but Cole placed a brave or crazy hand upon his arm to arrest Lord Kestrel's motion.

“Speak with our friends directly before leaving sir.” he said in false braveness. “They received notices from the other non-humans in the area of that mound that might be of value in your negotiations.” he stated humbly. I truly felt pity at that moment for this man trapped between the vileness of the Council and the nobility of Lord Kestrel. The latter looked confused at Cole as a wicked smirk showed more than words that the Council had something that would benefit Lord Kestrel's efforts.

I followed as he walked into the Council Chambers to be meet warmly by the Guards on duty with pleasant jibs about not requiring flying lessons. They lead him to a small study in the back forcing me to hide in the hallway attempting to hear a passing word or two from within the room. Burdish appeared shortly to enter the room in a rush with a pair of clerks, all carrying bundles of letters.

He exited a few minutes later smiling in earnest at what had been shown to him though he carried nothing of those letters with him. He moved quickly with the surefootedness of a feline reminding me of when I first meet him. He easily dodge my brothers' and sisters' attacks in that same surefooted style. I lost track of him as he entered his residence while I scrambled over the shorter part of the wall into the training area. On padded paws I quickly moved around the home avoiding detection as best I could from the other residents. I found him in his den writing multiple copies of what appeared to be the same document for a small army to read easily. I hide half behind, half under the desk by his legs as a jubilant Cole entered with Sert and Meli following cautiously.

“The Council will back any treaty you draft with the Fairy Nation unanimously.” he nearly crowed triumphantly. Kestrel shifted to sit straighter at the desk.

“We can expect guess tomorrow?” Meli asked confused. “We truly do not have the staff to hold a meeting with the whole Fairy Nation.” she cautioned.

“Both the Royal and Council Kitchen have offered their support in these negotiations.” Cole informed them. “And the Royal Guards have already volunteered to patrol any such event upon the Council’s most politely earnest request.”

“And I will speak to Odin since he and our rebel leader will be attending this meeting.” Lord Kestrel stated. My gulp was hidden by Meli's thunderous gulp.

“Might give you a chance to ask if he was truly behind the supposed Royal Appointment of the naive Munin.” Sert suggested.

“That subject will not be touched.” Kestrel growled back. “His time is too precious for more than a few minutes to tell the flutter bugs to behave and listen to the one he is allowing to represent Atlantis and the world.” he continued bluntly.

Later that afternoon found me looking down from a tree perch at a darker skin woman in the Lord's private garden. She was the wife of the Egyptian representative but, to my shock and disbelief, she was also Lord Kestrel's niece. The smell was indisputable in the closed area of the small garden.

“Why must I constantly change bodies in the outer world while you remain in the same stoic body I first meet you in Uncle?” she asked harshly.

“I am special plus this body regenerates because I live in Atlantis.” he whispered back. “Why did you finally decide to leave Egypt and see this grand world with your loving eternal husband?” he continued softly. I felt nearly lulled on the branch by the calmness in his voice.

“My skills are as sharp as ever just like the honest and humble heart of my sweet husband.” she answered. I froze since this did not make any sense to me as answer. This odd half spoken half alluded to conversation continued lulling me to near sleep until the words “my cousin Sara” escaped the woman's mouth. I came awake nearly falling from the tree into the woman's lap.

“But you two can still speak since she shares our family gift of mental speak.” Lord Kestrel commented. I filled my nose with his sense before launching myself in silence over the lower section of wall. My heart pounded in my chest as I rushed through the street not worrying about being seen while this information that Lord Kestrel would be the true father of Princess Sara driving me to move faster. Sections of the streets blurred at the speed I forced myself to move since this would be a nearly impossible chance to smell Lord Kestrel scent upon Sara. It would be a scandal if this was true. Miss Hope and the other Captain must be informed if this was the dark truth. I hung nearly upside-down from a branch within the garden that Princess Sara would play and study during the day away from all others.

The thought hit like a hammer between my eyes before I even got a scent of Sara. The Captains, Miss Hope, and all the feral should have smelt Lord Kestrel upon Princess Sara and still they remained silent about it. Sara glanced up from playing to look directly at me.

“Little Kitty should not worry so much.” whispered in my mind followed by Princess Sara's squealing giggles. I dropped to the ground by her and slipped into a bush next to her.

“You know the truth?” I asked softly.

“Yes, I know who my father is.” she stated in my mind. “But it is something we do not talk to others about.”

“But this is improper.” I protested weakly to her.

“They all know you silly Kitty.” she rebuked me. “Munin is the pretend King while Father is the one who makes the decision with Mother while she gets to be a true Queen once more.” she explained. “Leave it be and watch to see how noble and honorable this arrangement truly is Kitty.” she added. Her mental giggle combined with her real vocal squeals of pleasure. Her private Feral Guard moved from concealment to stare hard in my direction. I moved in total silence into view to salute her before departing in the same speedy but creeping pattern I entered this place. I did not look back to see if the tigress followed me as I went to the training field to ponder the events I discovered today. I was absently watching the sparring sessions when I spotted Sert and Cole arriving together to stand in the sandy battle square.

My curiosity was peeked and I moved closer to watch these two that I never would believe practice together. I was not alone as a few younger cadets and their trainers moved over to use this as a demonstration of “differing styles of combat pitted against each other”. My position was still closest to the sparring square as both stopped to move to their own side of the field. A mewling gasped escaped me as both glanced in my direction while they removed all weapons and armor for this session.

“Oh!” Cole drawled. “It is the annoying cat that skulks around the residence.” he told Sert loudly.

“Maybe facing him would be more your speed than facing a trained soldier?” Sert suggested back.

“Or a better challenge for you facing wild fangs and claws?” Cole retorted. My ears burned with anger as I heard their comments. I was on the verge of walking out and challenging both of them to prove myself to be part of Lord Kestrel's retinue permanently. Their soft merry laughter halted my step and my anger.

“Let us just practice this unarmed combat form while we have the chance before all the running around tomorrow.” Sert stated between laughs. “If we have time, we can test the kitten to see if we should continue ignoring his presence within our household.” he continued easily. Cole shrugged at first before nodding slowly in agreement to his companions deal.

“The winner must be the panther's tester?” Cole countered after a moment of slow nodding.

“Is that agreeable to you, Young Redpath?” Sert asked. I could not find words within my mind at this comment. I am sure my jaw hung loosely ground ward as I felt the eyes of all the cadets and trainers on me at that moment. I forced myself to nod as I gulped to close my mouth nearly trembling with anticipation and wanting to disappear from the view of the others present. “Good.” Sert remarked loudly to the crowd. “The one who bares the noble name of Lord Kestrel should never feel out of place facing a challenge.” he added louder for me.

“Just be nice enough not to beat us down Young Kestrel Redpath.” Cole commented wryly.

I heard the murmur of surprise and awe whispered in the ranks of the Council cadets before noting the soft foot step at my back. My nose already warned me that Captain Curd himself moved up behind me making me stiffen. I turned my head to face him with the rest of my body unmoving while my heartbeat drowned my hearing partially. The Captain smiled cattishly at me but refrained from saluting as he took a place next to me to watch the show. The action in the sandy square was not the typical clawing attacks I learned through my young life. The attacks started with simple fists but progress to kicks, elbows, knees, and throws making it a deadly looking graceful dance like nothing I had seen before. This was all new to me that my observing Lord Kestrel training Sert did not happen before this odd moment.

“I suggest you do not disturb Princess Sara too frequently.” Curd whispered to me. My relaxation of watching the beauty of the sparring melted away to the same stiffness I first felt upon his arrival. “But it is not wrong for you to bring Her word of Lord Kestrel's journey since she cannot know of them directly.” he continued in the frozen lip whisper. “If you understand my suggestion to you.”

“I cannot speak of things I have never seen.” I commented defensively. Curd sighed softly.

“None of the Feral would even attempt stopping you leaving with Lord Kestrel.” he stated silently.

“Why would this be?” I growled back. I felt the heat of redness in my cheeks but it was not embarrassment but sheer anger making me boil.

“You would do it anyways.” he returned. A small purring chuckle escaped him making me turn to face Captain Curd. I saw his eyes looked sad and the smell of fear seemed to be coming from him. “You will do whatever you put your mind to and none of us have a chance of stopping you short of killing you.” he told me. His tone was still a whisper but sounded at a normal tone to me. “Most of the Guards have only been spotting you after the fact little kitten.” he continued. “A feat that none of us would even consider how you did it.” I stared into his eyes for but a moment before nodding silently to him. My eyes returned to the training field to see both Sert and Cole dropping to their knees, breathing hard, and showing the forfeit symbol.

“If this is your best,” I remarked loudly, “I think my training will be exciting as part of Lord Kestrel's household.”

“Well said Young Redpath.” Curd stated at my side. “Now do we show these Council Cadets, what claws and fangs can do?” he asked. His words were followed by a derisive purring laughter I could not ignore.

“When you are ready, I will face you without fear as I represent Lord Kestrel's claws and fangs.” I retorted. The gulp from the Cadets was like an earthquake hitting us but more importantly was the look of acceptance from Sert and Cole at my words. I did not fair half as well as either of the other two members of my newly accepted household's draw against each other facing off with the Tiger Captain. I lost without question but at least escaped serious injuries at the claws of vicious fighter. The Cadets still looked at me in awe as I walked off the field to face both Sert and Cole without fear.

“That was truly an awful performance.” Sert stated seriously.

“You join the training group in the morning with Sert, the afternoon with Meli, and with me in the evening.” Cole decided instantly. “We need you up to speed as quickly as possible.” he added with a little smirk.

“Need all your house guards able to face any opponent victoriously.” Curd commented. “Best you also take a fourth session every other day with the five Guard groupings.” he suggested. “I want a true challenge for our next official sparring session.” he added purring.

“As is your will Captain Curd!” I responded quickly. I gave him a quick salute that made gasps rise from the onlookers. It took me a moment to realize that I was not alone in my salute to the Captain. Both Sert and Cole joined my in my salute before we walked together back to, what was now, my home.

Kestrel's Journals: Dragon Blood & Jäzærha (6)

I sensed Sert's annoyance as strongly as I heard it in his grumbling words upon his return. I knew that when he left last, he had mentioned stopping at the Royal Kitchen to collect Meli on his return trip. I surmised that his fowl mood had to do with her absence.

“What has happen?” I remarked. He had stalked into my den where I created the final copy of the treaty between Atlantis and the Fairy Nation.

“Meli has locked herself in the Royal Kitchen with Chichi.” he retorted through clenched teeth. I waited to hear why he was so perturbed by this fact. “She sounded inebriated.” he revealed softly. With a quick mental scan, I realized what was actually happening in the kitchen. A string of multilingual swears escaped me as I quick marched to the Royal Kitchen with Sert rushing to keep up to me. I barely paused long enough to firmly kick at the locking mechanism that barred the kitchen's double doors opening them with more efficiency than using the key would at that moment. Twin stars danced in a mad spiral of my black orbed eyes as I glared at Chichi who shrunk away from my gaze holding his hands protectively in front of him. Meli looked stunned at us before upending the glass in her hand and dashing it into the ember filled cooking pit with a burst of bright alcohol feed flames burst forth. I snapped Sert's and Meli's mind into a stunned state so I can speak my rage without fear.

“Have you lost what little mind you have Famine?” I bellowed at him. “You were told that the ingestion of Dragon's Blood is not allowed on Atlantis, you fool!” I screeched. His eyes glowed brightly as tendrils of lightning played along my skin and newly reformed talons.

“She wanted to know the effects of Dragon's Blood so she understood why it is not permitted here.” Chichi explained in a half whine. My grip released on my companions as my fist connected cleanly with Meli's face. She spun once before collapsing in my arms limply much to Sert's shock.

“We will have words later Chilörąn.” I stated angrily. I carried Meli's unconscious body easily from the kitchen. I was forced to order Sert to be silent during the return trip because of his protests and offers to make the little chef pay personally for his actions. He grumbled his acceptance as he followed me back to our residence. I placed Meli gently in her bed barely noticing the feline presence in her room before walking out of her room.

“Guard this door but do not go into the room no matter what protests or cajoling Meli attempts on you.” I told Sert. He saluted me while still wearing the grumpy face he had worn when he first arrived back from his errands earlier. “I am going to have more direct words with Chichi.” I informed him. “Do not make a move against him, understand?” I added. He simply nodded annoyed at me before I portalled directly back to the Royal Kitchen as angry at myself as at Chichi over all of this. I should have been clearer with my orders to Brother Famine but still I raged at Chilörąn's mistake regarding the herb and the actual blood of dragon kin.

“What were you thinking, you scaly arsed idiot?” I snapped at him. He looked back sheepishly at me. With but a passing thought, I reformed the locking mechanism sealing the Kitchen's double doors to keep others out of our discussion. “She was referring to the plant and not the blood that flows in your veins you half baked godlet.” I added bluntly. A glass formed in my left hand as, with my right, I pulled out one of Chichi many secreted bottles of sacred sake he kept in this kitchen.

“She did make sure I understood that it was the blood and not the plant she spoke of.” he explained sheepishly.

“Both are illegal here!” I screeched back. I filled the glass and swallowed the content in one quick gulp. He still looked sheepishly at me as I refilled my glass. I tossed the bottle at him which he deftly caught without truly looking at it. “But she has been drinking at my level of alcohol.” I explained calmer. “Your thought she would be passing out drunk before she went into full heat was beyond stupidity!” I concluded. We both emptied our glass of special sake before he refilled his glass and tossed the bottle back to me. I watched as he pondered my words now that the alcohol cleared the fog of sobriety from his mind.

“Oh!” he interjected sheepishly. I rolled my eyes at him before screeching my disdain for his attitude. “So I should have mixed a bit of the herb version to make her drunk much faster?” he mused with a little mischievous grin.

“You are the most perverted little dragon I have ever meet Famine.” I retorted icily. “The plant would have accelerated the effects of the dragon blood in the same way it does with the alcohol.” I sighed back. I slipped down to sit on the floor which Chichi mimicked making it easier to pass the bottle between us. “Will you continue trying to explain your way out of this mess?” I remarked. He raised his glass at me before we both pounded them back and reloaded our glasses.

“Is it truly wrong making young women more inclined for a romp?” he asked softly. “It is not like any of us are mated anymore.” he added.

“Let it come naturally instead of trying so hard to get them into the sack from the moment you meet them Chichi.” I returned with a sigh. “As for myself, I abstain from that pursuit since I normally have a willing partner that knows me by the time it happens.” I added softer. We continued speaking this way all night emptying many a bottle between the two of us.

“I will try to remember your wise counsel Brother Order.” Chilörąn stated as dawn found us. His eyes glazed over at that moment before drifting to sleep on the floor. I slowly and shakily rose to my feet to stumble from the Royal Kitchen with the remains of the last bottle we had open still in my grip. While I swerved back toward home, I used my nebulous healing technique to purge the alcohol from my blood stream to become fully sober as I re-entered my residence. The thoughts of explaining to Meli the folly of her actions and quelling Sert's anger toward Chichi to avoid them coming to blows before I could arrange a sparring session for those two vanished upon entering my residence. I did not receive time to deal with either of these problems as warning arrived that Captain Jäzærha had returned to Atlantis.

Khën was waiting in our foyer with his nose twitching more violently than his normal nervous-pensive tick. He turned toward me noting the half bottle still in my hand. An eyebrow raised slightly as he looked nervously at me and I read from his active mind the twinges of fear dealing with a drunken power of my level. I chuckled waving my free hand at him while Sert and Meli moved from his side.

“Have this bottle placed in a safe place since it is a most potent mix of sake.” I told Meli. I handed the bottle to her smiling sheepishly. “I relieved it from our alcoholic little chef.” I explained to her in a whisper. She blushed violently at me nearly dropping the bottle. “And it is not the stuff he was sharing with you.”

“I bring word that Captain Jäzærha is arriving on a ship shortly.” he informed me. “You presence is requested in the greeting line immediately.” he continued. “You are to stand near the dais holding a royal place because of the position you still have even with your long absence Sir.” he stated bluntly. Jäz's short sporadic visits seemed to only occur during my moments of absence not giving us a chance to meet personally. But from the reaction of Khëndrâèl, this was not going to simply be a short visit by the Captain of the Ferret Guards. “He is accompanied by a foreign woman.” he added under his breath.

“I must presume that Lord Munin is taking this opportunity to make a Royal assembly filled with pomp and ceremony?” I returned quickly. I smiled viciously as he nodded his annoyed agreement to my words.

I followed him closely as we rushed through the streets as I heard rumors that Atlantian saw the woman as a love interest of the Ferret Captain. Many wanted to join the celebration simply to see his reaction around this lady companion and not for the reaction of the new King toward this usually missing Royal Guard Captain.

“Hurry Father since I will need your support in my machination to secure my safety.” flashed in my mind from Sara. The vision that accompanied this message showed a secondary group planning to usurper or destroy Atlantis if they failed a coup. The woman Jäz protected was the pivot point of this dark plot. As I attempted to inform her, her giggling laughter filled my mind blocking my words of warning. “A pivot can be turned anyway it chooses when given a chance and the proper information.” she responded still giggling mentally. I had to agree grudgingly to this wise thought line she presented to me. “Please do not interfere with my path Father.” she added softly. I felt the mental connection snap shut as we entered the newly built Atlantian Royal Court.

I was placed withing the top ten members of the line standing next to Prince Bryan listen to the spoken and non-spoken comments encouraging my place in this greeting line which I felt was not deserved. The nobles, Captains, and Council representative assured that this was truly the perfect place for my actions toward and for Atlantis. Thoughts of my show of wisdom and justice regarding opening Atlantis to the world as a trading partner whispered around me. The secondary thoughts of my recent action with the Fairy Nation though heavy handed was unfortunately needed to protect Atlantis nobly as any true Atlantian would. Most did not see me as the Envoy that I was anymore. I was a dutiful citizen of Atlantis showing true honor and wisdom for all to see and learn from.

The hush started like a gentle wave on the ocean growing to crash at the feet of the throne bringing silent to the room as we all turned as one to see Captain Jäzærha, leader of the Ferret Guards standing with a tall female companion bearing the marks of the sun and moon upon her bronzed face framed in dark brown curls that dropped well past her exposed shoulders.

“A gracious welcome to our returning Captain!” the Scheneshal's voice bellowed without him being visible in the room. I saw the Captain stiffen as he placed the woman's hand upon his left forearm to guide her forward cautiously. The assembled nobles, Council representatives, and assembled dignataries greeted him with hardy hand shakes but their eyes would linger on his bronze skin companion without being given introductions by the Ferret Leader. The other Captains grasped his elbow in hand as he did the same in the warriors' version of a handshake before he reached me and Bryan in the line. He stopped before me and I felt him finally relax as we performed the warriors' greeting without either of us needing to salute. His small dark eyes locked to my amber orbs.

“We can talk and meet personally once this circus is completed.” I commented calmly under my breath.

“It would be about time for us to have that opportunity Noble Kestrel.” he returned with a quick nod. He glanced to smile at the young Prince at my side when Sara pounced on this perfect moment. She barrelled from the Guard beside her to throw herself fully into the arms of the young woman at Jäzærha's side. She clung in a death grip at this woman who would become Her Royal Governess. The bronze faced woman looked shocked by this action by the child and her mind revealed total ignorance at what this action meant.

“She is to be mine!” Sara squealed into the stunned silent room.

“I believe that Young Princess Sara has chosen you to watch over Her as Royal Governess.” I comment loudly to explain the child's cryptic words. I scanned her mind at this moment of shock and saw the potential Sara had noted. She was linked directly to enemies of Atlantis but held the strength in her to turn on them if they attempted to force her hand. As Sara Governess, the young princess would be the central figure of her life causing the protective streaks that had her return to Atlantis with Jäz to activate fully. She was still her own person and the decision would be upon her own shoulders and consciousness in the end but it looked positive in my eyes.

“She is Ichtaca Cuicatl from the Sun Temple.” Jäzærha told the three of us. Bryan had remained silent at my side watching the event unfold.

“A Warrior of the Sun and Moon, Ichcui?” I asked calmly. Her eyes widened showing a disproportionate amount of white surrounding the black rimmed irises. “I see you as a perfect governess to teach young Princess Sara if the King and Queen allow it.” I added. Having had my say in this matter already swayed Annianka favorably but did not effect the empty-headed King Munin. I stepped aside allowing Bryan the chance to stand at attention to salute Jäzærha before pulling him back with me as the crowd moved forward to now greet this woman chosen by the Princess they revered while the other Captains did their best to move them forward to stand before the King and Queen.

“I understand what you see in her but I am unsure what your Mother will think of this.” I warned Sara.

“Is this one of the little things you arranged during your absence?” Annianka grumbled in my mind. I kept both conversation separate from the other to not show my advice to Sara.

“This was not of my doing Sweetness.” I reported overly casually to her. I heard the whispers of Sara fighting with her mother over her sudden decision. “I have given you my point of view verbally.” I continued back to the Queen. “She would be a good teacher and protector for her even if she has connection with potential enemies.” I concluded blunter.

“Thank you for your help Father.” Sara whispered in my brain before my attention was drawn to the dais.

“I cannot go against the will of my Daughter if it makes her happy.” Munin stated to the crowd.

“Are you truly ready to accept this event my King?” Annianka asked directly. “Once agreed, it cannot be undone?” she added. I felt her annoyance and anger that he was making this decision without truly consulting her.

“The King is truly too easy to abuse.” I muttered to Sara and Annianka.

“If you agree with Her decision, I shall not interfere.” the Queen reported to me.

“You are still up most in Mother's heart and mind as Her true King and partner.” Sara informed me.

“I agree!” I told both of them. This ended the mental debate.

“Why would I need to undo such a gracious offer to our Royal Throne.” Munin snapped back. “Our Captain has probably brought this woman for just such a position within our ranks!” he continued. “Why else would he bring her with him my Queen?”

“Love?” she let slip mentally. Munin's emotions saw his daughter stealing the focus from the crowd that he would pull back to himself with his direct words. But most had already forgotten that this was to be a greeting ceremony for Captain Jäzærha as Sara changed the focus to this tall bronzed woman she claimed as Royal Governess. Munin glanced once at Annianka before rising while the crowd engulfed Jäzærha and Ichcui to leave the room dejected followed closely by his concubine. Annianka remained stoically on her throne as the accepted face of royalty to the Atlantian populace. She stood slowly and majestically bringing a hush to the room.

“Well meet Captain Jäzærha.” she stated boldly into the room. “And well meet Governess Ichtaca Cuicatl.” she continued with a soft but sad smile. “Please feel as welcome here as in your own land and among your own people.” she added. She bowed deeply to her before walking away slowly. Miss Hope and a dozen mixed Royal Guards followed that had not moved a hair when Munin departed. I waited with the silent Bryan at my side while talk buzzed around the newly returned and newest arrival.

“It would be best to give our new Royal Governess a chance to settle into her position while Captain Jäzærha can review his troops that have missed him greatly.” I stated loudly. The reaction to my words was immediate. The crowd melted from them instantly. “Princess Sara's Guard can show you to your new lodging as Governess Ichcui.” I stated to the bronzed woman. She stared around her at the emptied space before her eyes returned to mine. “Jäz and I have much to discuss now that both of us are present together finally.” I explained softly to her. I bowed to her quickly before the other three Captains escorted us away.The young prince followed us out of the hall but no further as he moved to join the guards helping to clear a path for his sister.

“You seem to have retained your control over events in Atlantis as is due to you.” Jäz commented as we left the throne room.

“With the other three Captains accepting my words as wise helps me greatly to perform my duties to Atlantis as is my lot in life.” I replied easily. The trio that followed us chuckled deeply at my words.

“You have earned the respect they show you as I have been told by them and from word of the people of Atlantis.” he remarked casually. “Why have the Gods truly sent you here Noble Kestrel?” he continued softer.

“Gods have nothing to do with the fall of Atlantis.” I continued toxicly.

“You have seen the darkness that I have been spoken about by the possible ending moments of our island?” he asked simply. I nodded in silence. “Then you have done a good thing by allowing Ichcui to govern Princess Sara.” he volunteered. “She will die before allowing harm to come to your daughter.” he explained in a whisper.

“She is linked to our enemies.” I returned in a matching whisper.

“Not in her heart.” Jäzærha returned calmly.

“I hope you, Sara, and myself are right about her.” I replied easily back to him. He laughed at my words.

“She has turned beings that are supposed to be devilish evil into guardian angels.” he explained softly. “She has freed enslaved beings that she did not need to do.” he continued. “She shall stand by Sara's side even in death itself comes for the child.” he stated. “Royal blood or not.” he added with a wink to me.

“Explain?” I nearly growled back at him.

“She does not smell fetid like Munin does.” the Ferret Captain stated. “I am sure the other Captains will agree that she has your scent mixed with that of her Holy Highness.” he added before stopping in the middle of the empty square. The trio of Captains nodded before moving into a protective triangle around them.

“So you all share the information?” I asked calmly. I already knew this would be the case but hoped it would not be so plainly stated.

“Yes.” they answered in turn.

“And you remain silent about this fact?” I returned softly.

“You are the only being with enough honor and wisdom to be seen as a true King of Atlantis.” Jäzærha spoke for the group. “Even without meeting you, I can accept that fact from what you have done for this Island in the past and what I expect you to do in the future.” he concluded.

“I cannot always be here for her.” I replied angrily.

“We shall watch over your Princess, your Queen, and your people, even if they cannot see who is the true King of Atlantis.” they answered in unison. I shook my head in disbelief as I smiled at their respect and faith in me.

“The Council has plans for me to leave in the next few days.” I explained to them. They nodded as one man to me. “Try to keep the place safe during my absence.” I indirectly ordered them.

“As you wish it Lord Kestrel.” The Ferret Captain spoke for the group. “But do not ask us directly to keep the pretend King alive.” he commented with a smirk. The low growl of laughter escaped the other three Captains.

“I would only ask it to keep Annianka from being forced into seclusion if at all possible.” I replied more seriously to them. They nodded as one to me again. I dismissed the Captains to their duties to their troops on this note. A shadow dogged my steps back to my residence but I sense no threat from this feline mind that followed me.

Kestrel's Journals: Dealing With Fairies (5)

          The next morning was a bustling mess of activity as my team worked to set the grand hall for my facing off with the Fairies. The council had sent word to the Fairy representatives upon Atlantis including their Royal Representative that a “meeting of great importance” would take place in my residence that none could ignore. The Fairies had been requesting meetings with myself since my return but was blocked between the Council and the Royal Court claiming I was occupied.

          “I understand that you are angry at my decision of your duties for today.” I stated to my team. I had finally informed them that none of them would be allowed to stay at my side during this meeting. “I need the three of you in place to help in your area of expertise.” I continued. They glared at me in turn but remained silent. “Repeat my order to each of you!” I ended angrily.

          “I am to act as message runner to keep the Council abreast of the events of the meeting.” Cole grumbled.

          “Act as informer to the Royal Court.” Sert snapped back.

          “Deal directly with the Royal Kitchen who will be catering this event.” Meli mumbled unemotionally.

          “Correct!” I remarked. I felt the ears of our feline friend perk up as from behind his animalistic facade the thoughts of being the one who would be guarding me personally from the shadows. “I will be perfectly safe.” I continued easily. The doors to the room slowly opened as the three Royal Guard Captains entered with a mix group as their heels. My team glanced from them to me as I smiled slowly to them.

          “We are here as requested directly from the Council of Atlantis with the blessing of the Holy Throne of Atlantis.” Ent reported.

          “Take your places so my team can stop worrying and do their assigned tasked with a clear head and heart.” I replied. My team head out to their positions while the Royal Guard troops took places around the room.

          “It is a little odd that the Council asked for us to be here.” Curd stated. He stood at one end of the room like an immobile statue.

           “They were even polite and grateful when we agreed to fill their request to secure this meeting.” Ent commented from the other end of the room. Rez remained silently at my side moving with me around the room as I removed things that could be destroyed or used as weapons if the Fairies acted up. “You are too quiet Rez.” he added.

          “Nothing needs be said at this time.” he replied in his deep rumbling voice.

          “I warn you all now that I might harm these little winged idiots if they resist to these negotiation.” I stated bluntly to the room. “Do not interfere in any way.” I ordered. “Hold your position and watch in silence.”

         “Easier for some of us than for others.” Curd remarked in a purr. They chuckled as they nodded together at me. The Fairies began filling in just shy of noontime meal as Meli returned with Chichi and an army of kitchen staff carrying back food and drink for those assembling here. I greeted them sternly in the foyer as Rez grunted a forced welcome to them. Most simply nodded back annoyed responses before moving to take place in the room.

The Fairies chattered amongst themselves as they ate in the main room. I ate in silence at the far end of the same room. The Royal Guards rotated in and out of the room to eat the bloody meat that had been brought for them without being seen by the guests. I waited until all had been feed and settled into their places before beginning this meeting that might insult them and reveal which one was betraying Atlantis. I took a deep breath as I stood bringing silence to the room.

“Any treaties and contracts you presently had with Atlantis, by order of Crown and Council, are rescinded and become null from this moment!” I proclaimed in the room. I did not give the chance for the shock caused by my words to dissipate before continuing. “You will not be able to use them to force the Holy power of Atlantis upon your enemies.” I told them. I scanned their minds as deeply as was prudent without warning them of my actions. Nothing surfaced other than the outrage from my statement to them. The claimed this to be unfair and unjust behavior on the part of Atlantis toward long time trusted allies. As they screamed at me, I felt the presence form at my side standing at the head table for this forced renegotiation. Stunned silence suddenly formed as they realized who stood at my side glaring at them.

“You wish to use my people as pawns in your little internal disputes?” Odin asked petulantly at them. The Fairy Nation representatives stared in silent awe and fear at the deity that rules directly above all of them. “I back this man to solve all these problems and it would be best that you heed his words.” he concluded bluntly. He turned to me and nodded slowly before disappearing as quickly as he had came.

“I believe it is best to rewrite all the treaties and contracts as one unified treaty that leaves no room for you to question or pressure Atlantis during your minor civil issues.” I stated. I was giving them no time to recover before forcing forward with my ideals. A scroll was placed before each of them that held the first treaty ever signed between Atlantis and the non-humans many eons prior when this island nation was still young and naive in the ways of the world. The Royal Representative for the Fairy Throne glanced at the script before speaking for the nation.

“As Royal Fairies, we can agree that this specific treaty could be used as a base for the all encompassing you are considering noble Kestrel.” she reported easily. She bowed to me showing her agreement to my thoughts. “Many of the separate mounds might wish to have personal clauses added for each of them though.” she admitted calmly. “We will stand behind the all encompassing parts of the treaty without question but cannot directly support any individual clauses.” she informed me grudgingly. I sense from her that my ideals would please the Royal Fairies as it removed all the inequality that sat within their nation because of the multiple treatises.

“I thank you Lady Sherena but if it is not all encompassing, it has no place in this treatise.” I replied directly. “One for all equally or no deals with Atlantis ever again.” I continued bluntly. Sherena half hid the smile she flashed at my words. The tension in the room rose at these words. “Even your rebel mound must be allowed to agree to these proceedings.” I added. A portal formed to my left as the room held their eruption to see what I was pulling off. The leader of the sealed mound stepped through the portal to take a seat at the table by me. I felt the other feline mind slid under the table ready to defend this man's life if needed. Cole entered at this moment, as planned, carrying the bundle of letters.

“By the orders of Council and Crown, These letters of support are to be given to you as a sign of good faith between Atlantis and your Fairy Mound over your actions of late.” he announced to him. A foursome of mixed Royal Guards moved to stand protectively at his back while glaring defiantly at the other Fairies.

“These fools will mess all our plans!” shrieked through the room from no specific source. The Fairies looked around in confusion at these phantom words. A predatory smile glowed on my face as I lifted the mind that had screamed these words through a mental trick I had placed upon the room. She lifted from her seat struggling against the invisible hands that held her tightly locked while moving her to the center of the room. Many of the other Fairies had stood at this scene staring blankly at the show visible from the half circle of tables.

“Your thoughts betray you child.” I nearly purred at her. “Should we explore why you just thought that?” I added menacingly. I leaned forward in my chair showing clearly with one hand that I was the one manipulating her mentally.

“Your doing Lord Kestrel?” both Sherena and the rebel leader sputtered in unison. I heard the same lilt in their voices and tones that told me that more was to be revealed about these two.

“I had hoped that the thoughts of betrayal would come to mind once they realized that I was tying their hands.” I explained slowly. “I did not believe I was going to catch them this quickly.” I continued with a dark chuckle. A ball of red-rimmed blackness formed under the traitor's feet. Multiple scroll exploded from her body and landed upon the tables open to view for all. “Fairies, Phoenixes, Dryads, and a dozen others including some humans working together to take control of Atlantis through the Council and having our Holy Queen destroying the evidence for them.” I continued as my eyes shifted to twin spinning stars. The orb grew as the traitor screamed in pain as both her mind and her body was being twisted and stretched to the event horizon of my black hole.

“She has betrayed all of us.” Sherena interceded loudly. She stood paled face as she saw first hand what I would do to this person. “Do we not have a right to punish her ourselves in our proper fashion?” she shrieked nervously.

“What should I do to her before I remove her from existence permanently?” I retorted in false anger. I lessen the pull from my dark orb while waiting for the Royal Representative's answer.

“Do not destroy her!” Sherena snapped back. “Our treatment would leave her living in utter madness for such a crime.” she returned coldly. “Fairy law states that her wings are forfeit if she betrays her people causing permanent madness.” she explained. Many of the pale faced Fairies in the room nodded grimly at me in agreement to this proclamation. Two of the burlier Fairies moved forward ready to draw swords to slice the offending wings from the back of the betrayer. I read from all their minds that they believed Sherena's guards should be allowed to remove the wings as her Royal Duties here.

The trapped body rotated until her wings dangled toward the black hole I had formed. I smiled like a beast from the darkest pits of Hell. Everyone froze as I sense the growing terror in them. The color drained from all of them as Sherena's eyes widened in sick realization of what I was about to do and none could stop me. I let the strength of my orb grow slowly as it ripped the wings in the most painful and tortuously lengthy fashion from the traitor's body. I held her mind active so she could feel every second of this overwhelming pain and the growing madness taking her mind from her. She howled and screamed in pain and insanity while all the Fairies turned away from the excessive methods I used to punish one of their kind. Sherena's eyes did not leave the scene of justice before her. Once the wings were ripped away, the orb blinked out of existence and I released my grip from her body. Her still living body hit the floor hard. Blood spurted from the bits of bone and gouges that use to link her to her wings.

“You are truly without mercy, Lord Kestrel.” Sherena whispered. She finally glanced fearfully back to me and to the leader who sat near me.

“Threaten my island of residence and face my infinite wraith.” he replied. “Now shall we get back to our negotiations now that these darker dealings are dealt with?” I continued with a hard smile. With a single wave of my hand, The Royal Guards moved to remove the unconscious fairy traitor's still living body from our midst. The Fairies stared in sickly silence at me. “Or should I fully probe all your minds to find the rest of the traitors I should be removing wings from?” I added menacingly. I heard the sudden group swallow deep in the Fairies' throats.

By supper time, a new treaty had been drafted giving no separate mound any more power over any other mound. They were to sign as one group and it was set as being a traitorous action to create any other treaty without all being in agreement of the changes and suffering them equally. Sherena signed it first as a show that the Royal Fairies stood firmly supporting this decree making any who question it into enemies of the Royal Fairy House and dealt with according to her words: “No mercy, no trial, and no chance of sane survival.”

The Fairies left slowly while still bearing a haunted look in their eyes and in their mind as I bid them farewell with a graciously shiny smile. I read all their minds knowing that none other of the traitors had been unlucky enough to be in this meeting as decided by the factions that selected them. The leader sat slowly perusing some of the letters that had been piled into his hands at the start of this meeting waiting until the others had left to depart himself. Sherena still sat in silence eyeing me and the leader at my side. As the last representative left, she finally stood and moved closer to us. She still gave us space to escape or defend ourselves or simply out of respect for her family member that sat by me. I glanced up at her but said nothing as I waited for her to speak. The leader half glanced up from the letter in his hands at her before slowly placing the bundles away in the same silent patients I displayed. I saw in his mind no sickly feelings that the other Fairy shared at my actions. She stood nervously waiting for one of us to speak. I finally broke the awkward silence.

“What is it Sherena?” I stated calmly. The leader turned to face her at my side with a harsh glare.

“If you discover more, I would be open to help remove this sickness while you and your people remain a secret upon the world.” she stated boldly. “Do whatever is needed to discover the truth even if it means disappearing from view.” she continued bluntly. “I shall order and hand them justice without revealing your part in this.” she told him directly. “I cannot allow my own people to turn to evil plans against truly noble beings.” she added angrily.

“Why do you really offer this to me?” he snapped back. “You were one of them ready to destroy my mound without question before this meeting.” he added.

“If I knew why you distance yourself and why they truly called for your death, I would have fought for your survival!” she screamed back. “I cannot know what is not told to me!” she continued. “Sending me word would have made me stand with you!”

“Even without proof like you finally saw today?” I retorted.

“We share royal blood in our veins!” she screamed at us. “I would believe you just because of that fact alone.” she retorted calmer. “Which mound are tainted from your understanding?” she asked bluntly.

“Asia is behind this plot.” he whispered back to her.

“Lord Kestrel?” she uttered as she straightened. “If I can give you locations of the infected mounds, can you have them set in turmoil so I may have the chance to remove them from this unjust path?” she requested calmly. I slowly nodded to her. “You will have a full listing of their locations and strength within a week or two.” she reported to me proudly. “May this be a sign of my belief in your words alone.” she added. She nearly saluted us before marching from the room with squared shoulders. I signal Ent to escort her directly back with his troops as a second protective measure.

“She will be dead after she has done this for me.” he whispered sadly. “They shall run before the others can reach them.”

“Once you have a clue where they may have escaped to, send word directly to me and I will see about locking them into place to be exterminated.” I told him. He nodded to me with sadness not ebbing from him. "Meanwhile, I will set some protective measure in place over Sherena.”

“I thank you but please do not let my little cousin notice your protective actions.” he returned softly with a chuckle.

“As you wish Little Prince.” I answered with a quick bow. “Best to get you home so you may vanish from the world.” I continued without comments on his part. “I will make your mound appear as a scene of utter destruction once you have departed making all believe you have perished.” I explain quickly. “It is for the best that you become the Secret Fairies, known by none.” I concluded.

“If things go wrong for Sherena,” he began slowly, “she will always have a place hidden away with us.” He bowed to me before walking through the portal I formed for his return home.

“Captains?” I called softly. The two remaining moved to my side quickly in total silent obedience. “Keep an eye on the Fairy groups and let me know if any suddenly depart within the next few weeks.” I ordered in a whisper. They gave me a quick salute but remained at attention. “Also keep an eye on Sherena since she will make herself a target once she digs into the possibly corrupted mounds.” I clarified. They saluted once more while still waiting unmoved. “Dismissed.” I added. This single word sent them and their troops rushing from my home as thoughts of finally being able to relax today formed in my mind. My ill luck persisted in true form against the wondrous good luck of Chichi.

Kestrel's Journals: A Show of Strength (4)

“Leaving them with nothing but their adaptability to find their own path in solitude.” I whispered to my hidden cabin guest. “You proclaimed it so my Masters, so must it be done.” I added to myself. I stated it to make sure he understood that even I answered to beings above myself. I knew it was the kitten that bore my name. Teaching him properly indirectly was more sensible until he felt ready to stand at my side with Sert, Meli, and Cole. I left my cabin to stand at the prow of the Herald as we neared the protective reefs of Atlantis. Sert and Meli soon joined me as had become a custom or ritual upon returning home. The slow cautious moves of the ship under us as it negotiated the path around the visible and invisible obstacle of Atlantis' protective reef was a calm reassurance that we made it home safely. Or so I imagined without peeking into their minds at this moment. I feigned ignoring their presence this one time as I planned my actions once my feet touched Atlantian soil once more. I didn't realize they had the same thoughts in their heads. My guard spoke his mind after we had moved to the dock.

“What are our duties sir?” Sert asked. He and Meli stood at attention while Captain Curd and Captain Ent moved in our direction.

“I must speak with Her Holy Highness.” I stated curtly at them. “Return home with our gear and await my return.” I continued before they could object. “Clear me a path to Holy Annianka's prison!” I ordered to the Captains. They snapped me a quick salute and waved me forward. I moved quickly away abandoning my companions to their own devise. The streets had been cleared as if the knew the request I was going to make from them. I did not hazard a glance in their minds over this fact but felt a set of feline paws following my step closely. A dozen mixed Royal Guards joined me as I approached Annianka's private tower cell.

I did stop to thank them as they placed themselves to secure the entrance to the bridge that led to her prison tower giving me free reigns to enter and an assurance of privacy while I was inside. My step falter as I found Annianka in her private garden. Miss Hope stood clearly in view. She turned slowly and signal me to wait before moving with unnatural silence to meet me by the doors of this garden.

“We must speak while she sleeps, my Lord.” she stated to me quickly and quietly. “Word arrived from the Royal Fairies after you left for the suspicious mound.” she added. She took my arm slowly leading me back toward the foyer of this tower.

“They want the ones that broke off turned into an example?” I asked directly. “Destroyed even?”

“They are being called rebels and having broken their Fairy Oath.” she replied tensely. “They have quoted over a dozen status from their many treaties signed with Atlantis and the Fairy Nation making it Her duty to exterminated them.” she concluded in a low growl.

“And where does the Council stand on this matter?” I returned without looking at her.

“They feel that the Fairies are over stepping their bonds and should be all crushed under Atlantian heels.” she retorted.

“And they are right since the rebel Fairies have stated a conspiracy afoot to take control of Atlantis.” I reported in a whisper to her.

“Is it even possible?” she said. “Would they be that foolish thinking they can control the might of Atlantis?” she sputtered in disbelief. I remained silent causing her to turn and face my cold eyes. “Answer me please?”

“If Annianka bows to the will of the Fairy Nation in this matter, then she is handing them the reigns of Atlantis.” I replied softly. “She can tell the Fairies to deal with their own problems without begging for Atlantis to be their executioner.” I continued “If they persist to drag Atlantis into their drama, break the treaties with them and throw the winged little asses off Atlantis en mass.” I added with a grim smirk.

“But it will cause a civil war within the Fairy Nation.” she chided. “And possibly have other non-humans turn against Atlantis.” Miss Hope added bluntly.

“A show of power and integrity might be in order then.” I mused. My smile must have shown more ferally menacing than I would previously have allowed to show. “Have their representatives meet with me at my estate in the morning.” I ordered. “I will go to the Council to inform them of a full renegotiation of all the treaties between Atlantis and the Fairy Nation.”

“What do you have in mind Kestrel?” she growled at me. “We cannot afford a diplomatic incident between us and them at this time.”

“They face the Envoy of the Ones On High who is negotiating the new treaty between them and Atlantis.” I replied scowling. I walked away ignoring her complaints and words of warning. If the Fairies want to challenge Atlantis, those flutter bugs would face the creator of this mystic isle who sits above them. It would be easy enough to have Odin appear to order them back in place while allow my higher judgement to be passed over them if they fail to heed his commands. I was a bit shocked seeing Cole waiting for me outside the Council Chamber Hall. I felt the worry ebbing from him in crashing waves suggesting my other companions had mention to him my behaviour at the rebelling Fairy Mound. I took a deep breath as I realized that my actions might already have been reported to the Council. But it did not explain Cole bravely standing alone instead of with a full cadre of Council Guards ready to pounce on me. I must believe that nothing had been revealed to them as of yet.

“Our friend on the Council wish me to convey gratitude for your actions.” Cole stated. So they knew and were not up in arms by my politically reckless actions. “We have kept the others in the dark since they are mostly secluded in an attempt to find a loop hole in the treaties to refuse the Fairy Nation's demands.” he informed me. We stood nearly nose to nose.

“Tell them if they follow to the Fairies' requests, they may as well give them full authority over Atlantis.” I snarled in his face. Cole's eyes widen at my words and attitude. “I will be renegotiating all the treaties in the morning if the Fairies still wish to remain in good favour with Atlantis.” I informed him directly. “Warn our friends that I am going to practice aggressive negotiations with them.” I continued. “Some may be injured, maimed, and even killed as I make a point to those fluttering parasites.” I concluded my full warning to him. I attempted to walk away but Cole spoke up quickly.

“Speak to our friends directly before leaving sir.” he stated loudly. “They received a notice from other non-humans in the area of that mound that might be of value in your negotiations.” he explained. I stopped and half turned to gaze at him both physically and mentally. A little smirk formed on his face that suggested this information was to benefit the rebels while forcing the other Fairies to back down from their warpath. I nodded slowly fully turning to enter the Council Chambers.

The Guards in the service of my supporters greeted me warmly without jibs about the two that failed to learn flying before hitting the ground. Nor did they mention the doors I destroyed to allow Princess Sara access to her mother. They escorted me to a small study on the edge of the massive structure reporting they would gather the Council member that I needed to speak with. I suspected that information had been provide to them regarding this special information they held for me. The short time I was left alone allowed me to study the library containing multiple volumes of the decisions of the Council for the last millennium. Nothing of great importance considering I had memories all this information as preparation for my extended visit here. A small portion set aside on the reading desk dealt with the older treaties signed between Atlantis and the non-humans early in the life of this island.

“So good t have you visit us finally.” Burdish stated as he entered. He was followed by two clerks carrying bundles of letters which they carefully placed on the desk before exiting. I eyed him suspiciously for a moment as he smiled at me. “We have received a few dozen letters, reports, and requests from the other non-humans clans around that mound stating we should resist any pressure from the Fairy Nation.” he reported. “Including their support if they want to isolate themselves as they are doing.” he added softer.

“So word has finally reached here from them about the Fairy plot to control Atlantis?” I asked bluntly. The smile turned into a confused grimace before his body suddenly snapped to attention. “That is why they broke away from the other Fairies and non-humans since they did not know whom they could trust.” I explained. “Also the reason they terminated communications with Atlantis because no proof could be given that the messages came from us without being seen by the conspirators.” I continued casually. “They have unfortunately found no proof of these dark machinations fearing not only the Fairies are involved in this dark movement.” The hints of red brightened to deep scarlet in Burdish's face. His balled fists showed white knuckles making it hard as he motion me to read the letters. In silence, I began quickly reading through the letter stack on the desk. No word of conspiracy or them suspecting the isolation as a bizarre behaviour as they offered defence support for a mound wishing to be left alone.

“Allies ready to fight without needing a reason to defend a mound they see as a true friend.” I whispered with a small chuckle. “Can these or copies of these be brought forth tomorrow to the representative of the mound?” I asked quickly. Burdish looked at me as his smile returned with a gleam of malice in his eyes.

“The validity of each of these messages have been thoroughly verified.” he admitted. “If Her Holy Highness Annianka attacks them, a good portion of the Atlantian allies would abandon us.” he continued. “Not to mention most of the Council that presently support Her.”

“They would vote Her permanently incarcerated?” I scoffed. It would be impossible to do so thanks to Her link to the Heartstone.

“They would draft paper to have Her expulsed from Atlantis seeing this action as disdainful as the Usurper ordering our death.” he clarified quickly. I looked at his eyes closely seeing he would be the one pushing this edict through the Council with or without support from others.

“It will be fixed tomorrow as I renegotiate all the contracts into one all-encompassing treaty.” I informed him. “I will force it down those little winged idiots' throat if they cannot see reason.” I continued. Burdish vicious smile was as grim as my own predatory grin. I saw in his mind the memories of my first meeting with them when I formed the black hole and warned them not to bring harm to Atlantis. “Make arrangement to keep Her Holy Highness very busy with visitors tomorrow while I deal the Fairy a very fearful hand including a visit from Odin.” I concluded. His colour drained at the mention of the creator and deity of Atlantis.

I bowed to him and left him standing stunned in the study with my mentioning Odin's name so casually. My walk home was in silent review of all the treaties I had memories before my arrival here. I slowly pieced together a base line treaty that would cover all the Fairies without given any specific mound more power or say than any other mound. I went directly to my den to draft my thoughts to paper so the representative could all read them and forcibly agree to my organized thoughts. Cole returned a few hours later proclaiming that the Council unanimously would back any new treaties or contracts I put in place with the Fairy Nation.

“Does this mean we will have guests tomorrow?” Meli asked. Her and Sert had followed the merry Cole into my den out of sheer curiosity. “We do not have enough guards or staff to hold a meeting with the whole delegation of Fairies!” she remarked fearfully.

“Both the Royal Kitchen and the Council Chefs have offered to help supply prepared food for those attending and word from the Feral Guards suggest they will be here in force to keep the peace.” Cole informed them.

“And I will have to speak to Odin since he and our rebel leader will be attending this meeting.” I stated softly. I heard Meli gulp while a pensive smirk crowned Sert's visage.

“Might give you a chance to ask if he was truly behind the supposed royal appointment of that naive Munin.” he suggested.

“That is not a subject that will be touched.” I returned bluntly. “He will only be here for a few minutes to inform the Fairies to behave and listen to the one he is allowing to represent all of Atlantis and the world.” I explained to them.

I was graced with a visit from the representative of the newest Egyptian Ambassador late that afternoon. It took me away from my notes and arranging the new treatise by a troop of Feline Guards escorting the Ambassador's wife. I had Sert and Cole join the two Feline standing guard on the door to my private garden where I meet my niece once more.

“Why must I constantly change bodies in the outer world while you remain in the same body I first meet you in Uncle?” she asked me petulantly. She had waited until the door was sealed at our back before speaking her mind.

“I am special plus this body gets regenerated even better because I live in Atlantis.” I whispered calmly back. “Why did you finally decide to leave Egypt and see this grand world with your loving eternal husband?” I continued in the same whisper. My words sounded not just in her ears but in her mind in the same soft tone.

“Third life without seeing this place finally made both of us decide that it was time for a visit.” she answered mentally. “My skills are still as sharp as ever just like the honest and humble heart of my sweet husband.”

“I will have to visit in an official capacity once things are dealt with the fairy folks.” I returned softly. “I cannot have the Atlantians believing I steer clear of the Egyptian delegates for some untold judgemental purpose.”

“Please make it soon since our time here as representative will be ending within a few weeks.” she informed me. “And that slime upon the throne seems to love having us visit him.” she commented with a mental shudder. “And the possibility of being allow to return is questionable because of our actions to gain peace with the humans and non-humans surrounding our lands.”

“Bent rules to create peace sounds like a small price to pay.” I commented gently. She smiled sadly at me. “Any comments from the non-humans regarding a possible conspiracy?” I hazarded. She shook her head slowly after a moment of silent thought. “Supposedly some of the non-humans are planning to usurper control of Atlantis but I have few details in hand presently nor any proof.” I explained to her.

“I will keep a probe out looking for more information for you Uncle Melchia.” she promised to me. “Now when can you arrange a visit with my cousin Sara?” she continued. Her face shined with mischief with this knowledge. I rolled my eyes as I sighed at her enthusiasm.

“The Royal Princess is not available for visitors yet.” I attempted to explain. She still smiled but her eyes glared at me. “But I will make arrangements to get you a royal visit once they allow her in the public eye.” I continued slowly. “But you two can still speak since she shares our family's gift of mental speech.” I suggested softly. Sara's voice squealed in both our minds as she screamed her cousin's first true Egyptian name. We sat together in the garden for nearly an hour while Sara spoke to both of us.

“Please keep your mother's mind preoccupied while I fix the problem with the Fairies.” I requested of my daughter. “We cannot allow her to lash out at the Fairy mound as those trying to control us is planning.” I explained to her.

“Of course Father.” she answered quickly. “And please have the Egyptians visit Mother during the time I am there.” she suggested to both of us.

“I will send word to the Council to make this happen but you may still not meet directly, simply see each other.” I replied softly to her. “It will not break any of the rules in place to protect you Sara while allowing you to see others from the outer world you live in.” I informed her gently.

“Thank you Father.” she returned. This ended our meeting as my niece returned to her husband and her duties while I completed the set of notes for the meeting in the morn. The household went to bed early that night to prepare for this spectacle against the Fairy Nation that I would be performing.