Forbidden Sweets

[nabiscocookie]

wow the site really hates me....everytime i try to update the story, i get sent to a page that says "The specified URL cannot be found." yet it will let me post this just fine.

[nabiscocookie]

**Installment 60**

Kattath found Caellia back in her rooms and eyeing her new bow with obvious dislike. She had heard from Nathavin about the incident on the archery range and had come up to check on Caellia. Though she did not agree with his decision to literally lock Caellia’s own bow away from her, she did understand the necessity behind it. Although, it was equally clear that Caellia did not care for the circumstances, even if she understood them.

“Kattath,” Caellia said lowly, never raising her eyes from the much detested bow, “stop hiding in the hall.”

Ignoring the comment about hiding, Kattath smoothly entered the room. “Nathavin informed me of what happened on the range.” Her eyes followed Caellia’s to the bow. “What is wrong with the bow?”

“It’s heavy, it’s cumbersome, and it’s altogether unwieldy in combat.” Caellia grouchily replied.

Kattath looked back and forth between Caellia and the bow. “Isn’t that why you practice with it first? To learn how to better manage it?”

“I don’t like this bow.” Caellia insisted.

Perplexed, Kattath tried again. “But why?” Leaning over, she picked the weapon up and held it lightly in her hands. “It is better quality than the one you were using before. It’s much stronger, able to take more abuse, and far more lethal than your old bow.” A sudden thought struck her, “Caellia, don’t tell me you are refusing to use this bow simply because you dislike the way it looks.”

Caellia whipped her gaze to Kattath quickly and immediately snapped out. “That is not the reason!”

Heaving a relieved sigh, Kattath replied. “Good.” Nathavin would have been infuriated had that been the case. “But what is the reason?” She glanced at Caellia and then set the bow down carefully.

Sighing, Caellia muttered. “The other bow was a gift to me. One of the shop keepers in my homelands gifted me with it. It reminds me that in a time when I felt alone, that I really wasn’t. That there were some within my brethren that did not believe in, and did not follow, Asterios.”

Kattath nodded in understanding. The bow had sentimental value for her. However, “But that was also when you came to Nathavin for help. You were never alone Caellia.”

Caellia nodded in agreement.

A small silence followed before Kattath broke it. “If it were me,” she began tentatively, “I would want the bow to be placed in safekeeping.” She caught Caellia’s gaze. “I wouldn’t want it to be damaged in battle. Think of it like this, all Nathavin has really done, is ensure that the bow will not be damaged in battle.”

Caellia slowly nodded in agreement. She understood that Kattath was merely finding a way to end the argument between her and Nathavin and was simply twisting the facts to suit her purposes. But she didn’t argue with it.

“Come.” Kattath said briskly, deciding to steer Caellia’s thoughts away from the bow. “New armor has been crafted for you and Nathavin and I’m eager to see what it looks like.”

Caellia’s face immediately took on a guarded expression. Whenever Kattath had suggested trying anything on garment wise, it had usually ended up badly for her. “What new armor?” She asked cautiously.

“You’ll see.” Kattath smirked and then whirled around. “Follow me please.”

“Kattath!” Caellia growled warningly as she grudgingly trailed after the spell howler. “What new armor?!”

*****

Nathavin glared at Shi’nryne. “Was that truly necessary?”

“She needed to see that the bow she wanted to use was inadequate. I merely showed her that.” Shi’nryne stated calmly as he continued to gaze off into the distance.

The winds at the top of the castle howled around them. Nathavin heaved a disgruntled sigh as he looked toward the sky. Dark clouds were gathering and he could hear the distant sound of thunder.

Shi’nryne glanced at Nathavin and sighed as well. They had been discussing this for hours. He was not going to change his method of teaching just to make Nathavin comfortable. It would be a disservice to him and most importantly a disservice to Caellia. If he changed his method of training, she would be unprepared to face Asadar’s forces. Despite his outward appearance, he truly liked her and wished her no ill will. Nathavin was much happier with her in his life and Shi’nryne had every intention of doing what it took to keep her in Nathavin’s life. Even at the risk of losing his own friendship with Nathavin.

Nathavin caught Shi’nryne’s sidelong glance and muttered. “You will not change then?”

“No.” Shi’nryne replied dully, purposely keeping all emotion out of his voice.

Lightening blazed across the sky and the heavens opened up, soaking both males in a matter of minutes. With a final, disgusted sound, Nathavin turned and walked back inside the castle, leaving Shi’nryne alone.

Tilting his head back as far as it would go, Shi’nryne allowed the rain to pour down on him, masking the tears that fell for his own loss, saying softly into the wind. “I will not let you make the same mistake I did Nathavin. You will not lose her as I lost mine.”

*****

Caellia stared in horrified remembrance at the familiar pink haired dwarven female. The same little dwarf had crafted her wedding gown and she vividly remembered standing for hours in front of a mirror while the little dwarf made adjustments to the dress. She glanced at Kattath and shook her head no. No way was she going to go through that torment again.

Seeing the look on the light elf’s face, the dwarf laughed brightly and slapped her knee in glee. “The armor is mostly finished. I only need to see it on you to make sure it fits properly.” She then pointed to the center of the room. “Stand over there please.” Then, skipping, she crossed over to a table that had several pieces of armor on it.

Caellia glared at Kattath who was trying, and failing, to hide a grin. What had she done now? Before she had time to drag Kattath into a verbal sparring match, the dwarven female had come back and was insistently tugging at the loose robes she was wearing.

“Come on, come on! Let’s get you out of these!” Once she had Caellia out of the clothing, she covered the mirror so that Caellia could not see in it.

Caellia began to protest immediately.

“Let the dwarf work Caellia.” Kattath said, trying not to giggle. She’d already seen the armor and had specifically requested the dwarf not to let Caellia see herself in the mirror until the very end.

The fine hairs on the back of Caellia’s neck stood up. Just what was going on?!

After several minutes, Caellia was finally wearing the completed armor set. The dwarf turned to look at Kattath. “What do you think?”

Kattath came away from the wall and slowly walked around Caellia in a circle. “I think it’s perfect.” Her eyes snapped to the dwarf. “And the other set….”

“Is complete as well.” The dwarf finished. “I just need to do the same with his as I have hers just now.”

Having had enough of the two of them talking as if she wasn’t there, Caellia huffed and loudly asked. “Would you please uncover the mirror so I can see?” She wasn’t thrilled with the dwarf’s sly reply.

“But of course.” The dwarven girl skipped over to the mirror, humming a gleeful tune. Before she pulled the cloth away, she looked over to Caellia and was suddenly very serious. “This armor was designed for you specifically at Nathavin’s request. If you do not like it, I’m not to blame for it. I was merely following the instructions given to me.”

Slightly taken aback by the dwarf’s proclamation, Caellia nodded mutely and motioned for the cloth draped over the mirror to be removed. Her breath hitched in her throat.

The armor, and it could scarcely be called that, was predominately a purplish black color with iridescent splashes of white. The breastplate wrapped snuggly around her. So snuggly in fact that it was, once again, too tight for her modesty. And it curved around her bosom indecently, with small curled pieces of cloth’ accenting the swell of her chest. She turned slightly and looked at the back of the breastplate, marveling at the small wing like protrusions, before turning back to the front.

Her eyes were drawn down by the narrow strip of cloth that made a ‘V’ in the center of her belly. It too had small, jagged edges on the cloth that accentuated that tautness of her stomach. Her eyes narrowed critically as she stared at her exposed belly. Surely her old armor had not exposed this much?


Her gaze swept down to the armored skirt. It was similarly styled to her old one and she quickly moved on to the boots. They were heavy and plainly designed to protect her legs and feet with reinforcements on the toes.

“The armor is of the Apella design.” The dwarf informed her after a few moments. “As I said, Nathavin hand picked this design for both of you. He had a set commissioned for himself as well.”

Kattath stared at Caellia while walking around her slowly, only half listening to the dwarf as she continued to explain the various qualities of the armor. The armor fit Caellia perfectly. It gave her a bit of a darker, more intimidating, presence.

*****

Nathavin stormed through the castle furiously. Flinging open the doors to his rooms, he stormed over to his desk. His eyes roamed the surface of the desk and landed on a decanter of Codran wine and two goblets sitting next to it. Snatching up a goblet, he poured himself a large quantity of wine before carrying both the goblet, and the decanter, to the large lounge in front of the central fire brazier in the middle of his suite. Brooding, he drank the wine while gazing into the fire.

It was some hours later when Caellia walked into the suite and found him. After she had closed the door to the suite, she was startled to find herself pinned to the wall. Her gaze swiftly flew to his face, a silent question in her eyes. As she looked at him, she realized uneasily that he smelled of liquor. Slowly she came to the realization that he was drunk, and in a very dark mood.

Uncertainly, she twisted her wrists lightly in his grasp, careful not to provoke him. “Nathavin, you’re hurting my wrists.” She said as calmly as she could while maintaining direct eye contact. “Nathavin, please.” She coaxed gently while again marginally flexing her wrists. That seemed to break him from his trance and he pulled away.

She stared worriedly at him. What had driven him to this? What had happened between him and Shi’nryne? Coming up to him, she placed one of her hands on his shoulder and gently tugged him back around to face her. “Nathavin, what happened?” She was further disturbed at the dull look in his eyes as he continued to stare at her silently. Leading him back to the lounge, she sat down, pulling him down with her.

After a moment, Nathavin pulled her closer to him and merely stated quietly. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

Hushing him gently, Caellia whispered. “You didn’t frighten me. But I am worried. I’ve never seen you act like this. I’ve never seen you drunk before.” She leaned in closer to him and laid her head on his chest, listening to the slow steady beat of his heart. “What happened?”

Sighing, Nathavin muttered tiredly as he closed his eyes. “I don’t want to discuss it.” Releasing another sigh, he hugged her tighter to him while telling her. “Just stay here with me.”

Wordlessly, Caellia snuggled up against him, drawing her legs up on the lounge. Before long she heard his soft, even breathing that signaled sleep. She kept vigil for several hours before finally succumbing to sleep herself.

[shad0wlf]

Holy smokes! I am a year behind this story. >.< ****!!

[BackstabbingTH]

i'm feeling a bit deprived....
any news on the story?

[nabiscocookie]

Still working on it. I've got about half of the next installment written but have had so much going on in real life that I haven't had as much time to write, or play for that matter, as I would like. I do however have about a weeks worth of vacation time coming up soon so with any luck I'll be able to finish up and post the next installment during that week. I'm hoping to be able to get another installment written as well if I can manage it.

But don't worry, I haven't forgotten the story.

It will be finished, I promise.

[BackstabbingTH]

alrighty ^^ tyvm hehe glad to hear it's not been forgotten xD
i guess real life>L2....even if we don't want it to be sometimes :P hehehe

[OrochiGirl]

Poor nabiscocookie. She's been writing this story for years and no one bothered to give her any reputation for it. So let's start!

[nabiscocookie]

**Installment 61**

When Nathavin awoke with a severe headache the next morning. With a start, he realized that he was laying on the lounge in front of the central fire pit in his and Caellia’s suite. A small sigh and a light fluttering breeze on his chest alerted him to Caellia’s presence with him on the lounge. Blinking his eyes groggily, he looked down at her snuggled against his chest. Why were they asleep on the lounge? Sitting up carefully so as not to awaken her, his eyes landed on the fallen goblet and the empty decanter of Codran wine laying forgotten on the floor. The memories of his discussion with Shi’nryne came racing back to him. With a soft groan, he raised a hand to his throbbing temple.

Caellia regarded him silently through lowered lashes as she feigned sleep. He had drunk quite a lot the night before and she was certain he was feeling the ill effects now. She flicked her narrowed gazed around the room toward the only window. A faint tell tale light around the curtains indicated that it was daylight out. Another low groan from him drew her attention away from the window and back to him. Sitting up slowly, she brushed his hair away from his face.

They sat in silence for a few minutes before he spoke. “Caellia, I apologize. I shouldn’t have…”

She shook her head and cut him off. “Nathavin you don’t have to apologize. You didn’t scare me.” She paused and caught his eyes, “You did worry me though. I’ve never seen you so upset.” Reaching out, she cupped the side of his face in her hand and held him. “I don’t want to see you that upset again.”

He turned his face into her hand, accepting her touch. “You won’t anymore.”

A few more minutes passed before she quietly asked him. “What drove you to drink?”
With a heavy sigh, he told her of his discussion with Shi’nryne and Shi’nryne’s refusal to change his training methods. At her gentle, yet insistent proddings, he also revealed his long standing friendship with the other dark elven male.

Caellia absorbed the information slowly as she sat with Nathavin in the silence of the suite. He had just given her a wealth of information. Looking upon his slumped form, she realized she needed to speak with Shi’nryne. Standing up, she softly spoke to Nathavin. “I’m going to go find Kattath and have her bring something up for you to eat.”

Too sick to argue with her, Nathavin simply nodded wordlessly and leaned back on the lounge and closed his eyes in an attempt to relieve his pounding headache.

After finding Kattath and informing her of Nathavin’s condition, Caellia set off on her search for Shi’nryne. It did not take her long to discover that he was unsurprisingly in one of the castle’s arenas. Swiftly she made her way to the northern arena and found him practicing on a training dummy. She called to him several times to no avail. Gritting her teeth in frustration, she cursed him soundly. She knew he could hear her.

Shi’nryne continued to ruthlessly pummel the training dummy, ignoring CAellia, oblivious to the fact that she was growing increasingly angry.

After a few more failed attempts, Caellia lost her temper. Ducking underneath the wooden railing that served to fence in the arena, she stormed toward him. Approaching him from the back, she deftly avoided the swords arcing movements and expertly snagged a long ear and tweaked it viciously.

His reaction was instantaneous. Spinning on one foot, he turned in the direction of the ear yank with both blades ready to rend his opponent to pieces, only to find his opponent nowhere in sight. His blades sliced empty air. As he regained his balance from the failed attack, his ear was once again attacked and viciously pinched. However, this time she did not let go. Instead she gave it a hard twist and pulled back, making him bend backward at an awkward angle.

“You dare to ignore me?” She hissed venomously as she twisted her body to the side slightly to avoid the razor sharp edges of his backwards facing swords. “You, who’ve upset my Lord and husband, actually dare to ignore me?!”

Shi’nryne took a moment to assess his situation. It was unfathomable that this slip of a light elf had actually managed to render him helpless by merely tweaking his ear. And it was clearly evident by her voice that he had underestimated her this morning. He had assumed that she would come down just as docile as ever and unwilling to fight. However, she had come down this morning ready to do battle. Even though she held him at an incredibly painful position and her grip on his ear was nearly unbearable, he was pleased to know that it was in defense of Nathavin, that she had come down ready for a fight.

Hissing slightly in pain he dropped his swords to the ground, something he had never done for anyone before, and would only do for her for the rest of his life, and waited patiently for her to release him. He allowed his entire body to relax and stood silently in the wholly undignified position.

Caellia kept him in that position for a few seconds longer, then with a final warning tweak, she pushed him forward and released his ear.

Shi’nryne stumbled forward slightly before turning back to face her. The first thing he noticed was that she had taken a couple of steps forward and was standing directly over his swords.
Caellia watched him closely, noting that his eyes strayed to his swords. A small smirk played on her mouth as a long forgotten trick Einao had showed her popped into her mind. It was the only thing he had taught her about sword play in their long friendship together, and she wasn’t entirely sure she could still perform it, but if she could, it would undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on Shi’nryne.

Shi’nryne narrowed his gaze at her as he watched her shift her weight. What did she intend on doing?

Caellia edged her toe underneath the thin edge of the legion blade close to the hilt. Flicking her foot, she tossed the hilt of the sword into the air and caught it, extending her arm, she brought the weapon to bear against Shi’nryne. Though her arm wavered slightly at the weight of the sword, she was glad the tip of the blade didn’t tremble excessively.

“Impressive.” Shi’nryne acknowledged, curious as to where she had learned that nifty trick.

Caellia slowly lowered the sword, allowing the tip to rest on the ground to take the weight. “I will not allow you to ignore me Shi’nryne. Not any longer.” She held his gaze resolutely. “I understand what you wanted to teach me. I understand you wanted me to learn to stand my own ground and not rely on Nathavin’s protection.”

Shi’nryne stared at her. “Do you understand? Do you truly understand?” Shaking his head he continued. “Caellia, I’m training you like this because if you panic in the battle and, Shillien forbid, you are taken and or killed, Nathavin will never recover. Never.” He stared at her. “It is not my desire to hurt you or ignore you.”

Caellia rounded on him. “It is not me you are hurting! It is Nathavin!” Angrily she closed the gap between them and stood toe to toe with Shi’nryne. “I don’t know all the details of your past friendship, but I do know that there is a lot of history between you two and that you are his closest friend aside from Kattath. You are hurting him in more ways than you will ever know!” She sucked in a quick breath and took the plunge. “I know that you lost your own love and blame yourself for her loss.”

Shi’nryne stiffened angrily at her words. How had she found out?!

“And I am truly sorry for your loss. But understand this; I will fight tooth and nail for Nathavin. I will be ready to face Asadars’ forces regardless what happens.” She looked him in the eye. “Asadar has much to answer for, and I have no intentions what-so-ever of dying when I feel my life has only just begun.” She gave a small sad smile, “My heart died once already when Asterios betrayed me. In the darkest time in my life, Nathavin saved me and gave me a new reason to live.”

Shi’nryne nodded wordlessly. He had heard accounts of what had happened at the light elven village and knew that she spoke the truth. “Caellia,” he started cautiously, “I still wish to train you…”

Cutting him off, she replied with a dismissive wave of her hand. “Then you will, but, there will be no need for gruffness.”

Again, Shi’nryne nodded. “I must make my apologies to Nathavin then.”

“Apologies are not necessary Shi’nryne.”

Both Caellia and Shi’nryne turned in surprise at the low voice that emanated from a shadowed corner.

“Nathavin!” Caellia squeaked in guilty surprise. While he had not told her to avoid discussing things with Shi’nryne, Caellia had felt that he might not want her to, and was concerned that she might have over stepped her boundaries.

“Caellia,” he called, beckoning her to come to his side with a slight nod of his head, Nathavin’s gaze never left his long time friend. Once Caellia reached his side he took a quick glance down at her, noticing the slightly guilty look on her face. Unsure why she had such a look, he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her to him reassuringly.

Shi’nryne watched them silently, noting the reassurance.

“Shi’nryne, there is no need for apology.” Nathavin stated. “Instead, it is I who apologize to you.”

Holding up his hand, Shi’nryne silenced Nathavin. “Say no more.” His gaze flickered to Caellia. “In matters of the heart, it is not necessary.”

A small silence passed between them before he spoke again. “Caellia, we will begin practice anew after the evening meal.” Seeing her nod, he gave a curt nod to Nathavin and walked away.

“Nathavin?” Caellia asked hesitantly as they made their way back inside the castle.

“Yes?”

“How long were you there?” Caellia hoped he hadn’t heard her rather emotional retelling of the incident at her home village.

“Long enough.” He answered evasively.

After a few moments he stopped. When she turned back to look at him questioningly, he narrowed his gaze at her and in a mockingly stern tone said. “However, if you ever grab and twist my ear like that, you will pay dearly for it.”

Her face turned several shades of red before she turned and fled with a small embarrassed shriek.

[Zethrodraithius]

Excellent installment. Really enjoy the character depth.

[BackstabbingTH]

Very good!
Hehehe Caellia's little ear trick was a very nice comic relief weather you meant it to be or not, it made me laugh.

[nabiscocookie]

**Installment 62**

The weeks passed by swiftly as Caellia continued to train with Shi’nryne. As the weeks passed however, Shi’nryne began to notice a slight change in her. While it was true she was improving greatly by leaps and bounds, there was something…off. It was almost as if despite all their efforts, her balance seemed to be deteriorating. She was loosing her footing more often than not. It was confusing.

Kattath watched the two of them while they battled. She too had noticed that something was strangely different about Caellia. Seeing that the practice was over, she made her way toward Caellia quickly.

Gratefully, Caellia accepted the help Kattath offered, handing her bow to the dark elven woman before sitting down on a nearby chair. Her tired eyes rose upward at Shi’nryne’s voice.

“Are you over-tired?” He asked concernedly. When she didn’t answer right away, just continued to stare at him and get her breath back, his eyes narrowed. This wasn’t right. She shouldn’t have been this winded. This had been one of their shorter training sessions.

“Caellia,” Kattath started softly, “are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Caellia stated tiredly, trying to alleviate their concern. But even she knew that something was not quite right. “I just didn’t get enough sleep.” Her face colored a bit as she realized how that might sound to the other two elves. But when she took a peek at their faces, she was relieved to see that neither of them was reacting as she’d thought they might.

Kattath looked at her with a doubtful look, reading her aura. Caellia was lying. “I think we should have a healer have a look at you.”

Shaking her head, Caellia said firmly. “No, I don’t want to alarm Nathavin.”

“You are going to alarm him when he finds out your training is taking a harder toll on you than it should be.” Shi’nryne stated direly.

Taking a look at both of them, Caellia firmed her resolve and stated resolutely. “I’m fine. I’m just a bit tired is all.” Seeing the disbelieving looks on their faces she continued. “If it does not improve in a week I’ll see a healer.”

“Three days.” Shi’nryne deadpanned. At her mutinous glare he continued. “Three days, or I inform Nathavin that something is amiss with you.”

With a slight growl, Caellia removed herself from Kattath’s and Shi’nryne’s presence.
“What do you think is wrong?” Shi’nryne asked quietly.

“I’m not sure.” Kattath answered thoughtfully. “We will have to keep a close eye on her however.”

“Should we inform Nathavin, regardless of what we told her?” Shi’nryne asked, genuinely worried about Caellia’s health.

“No.” Kattath murmured. “Let’s wait and see if she does it on her own.”

Caellia lurched into her and Nathavin’s suite. Dropping her bow and quiver on the ground unceremoniously, she stretched out on the lounge. Her stomach roiled and she had to close her eyes tightly and take deep steadying breaths to keep it under control. After a few minutes, she opened her eyes slightly. The room was no longer spinning, which was an immense relief.

She attempted to sit up, but almost immediately abandoned the idea as the motion set her stomach off again and the room once more began to spiral. With a low moan, she slumped back down. Eva what was wrong with her?!

Nathavin came in many hours later to find her sleeping on the lounge. His eyes took in the bow and quiver at the foot of the lounge in a jumbled heap. Despite what the others thought, he knew Caellia had not been feeling well. Walking over to her, he picked up the bow and arrows and put them away neatly. Coming back, he knelt down by the lounge and readjusted her to a more comfortable looking position.

While he wanted to take her to their bed which would undoubtedly be more comfortable, he didn’t want to chance waking her up. Instead he compromised. Crossing into the bedroom, he pulled the light cover off and came back and draped it over her. Brushing her hair away from her face, he was alarmed to find that she had broken out in a cold sweat.

Startled, he pulled his hand away quickly and stared down at her in concern. Raising himself quickly, he snatched open the door to their suite and told the guard that stood just outside to fetch a healer. Once done, he crossed back to Caellia and scooped her up, covers and all, and placed her on their bed. He grew even more concerned when she didn’t wake up. “Caellia?” He whispered softly, worried confusion lacing his voice. Why didn’t she wake up?

It was not long before Kattath and the healer arrived. Kattath stood beside Nathavin and picked up Caellia’s hand, surprised by how cold and clammy it felt. She had definitely taken a turn for the worse since Kattath had seen her last.

The healer, an elder of Shillien, worked for many furious minutes but could find no reason for Caellia’s illness. Finally he looked to Kattath, “Please use your gift.” He gave her a direct stare.

Kattath looked at him in confusion for a moment before realization began to dawn on her. “You don’t think she’s…” She whispered hoarsely, trailing off.

“Think she’s what?” Nathavin interjected quickly, shaking off Shi’nryne’s grasp on his shoulders. When had he come into the suites?

“It is too soon for my magic to tell, but with your gift, you should be able to sense it. Even this early.” The healer spoke to Kattath, virtually ignoring Nathavin for the moment as he concentrated on getting Kattath to confirm his suspicions.

Nodding, Kattath turned her attention to Caellia and focused solely on her. Slowly, she began to detect a separate aura intermingled within Caellia’s. It was very faint and she also missed it at first. But it was there. Slowly she raised her hand, tracing the aura, noting that it was emanating from Caellia’s belly. Pressing her hand a little more firmly against Caellia’s stomach, she focused her entire attention onto that one spot. Suddenly, as if someone had yanked several strings taunt, the aura’s separated and she could clearly discern the aura of a small baby.

Kattath’s eyes flew open in startled surprise. “She’s pregnant!”

“What?!” Nathavin asked hoarsely, his mind reeling at the news. His grey eyes flew to Caellia’s stomach as his hand reached out tentatively to feel it. She, she was going to bear him a child? He only barely heard the healer’s words, too stunned in the revelation that he and Caellia would soon be welcoming a child into the world.

As the healer continued to babble about the effects of the pregnancy, Shi’nryne looked at Kattath and pulled her aside. “Caellia’s training is at an end. I do not dare continue to train her while she is pregnant.”

Kattath nodded in agreement. “She is also going to be in even greater danger when the castle falls under attack.”

Shi’nryne nodded mutely before saying. “It would be better if she were not at the castle during the attack. If Asadar were to find out she’s pregnant…” He let the sentence trail off.

Kattath snorted. “Nathavin will not let her out of his sight now that he knows she’s carrying their child.” She watched him silently a moment, “He’s waited too long for this. He will not risk anything happening to her.”

“But if she remains here she will be in even greater danger.” Shi’nryne insisted, worried.

“I will protect her.” Nathavin said lowly from his place beside Caellia. He continued to comb his fingers through her hair lightly, his gaze never leaving her face. A fierce feeling of protection swept through him as she sighed softly and nuzzled against his hand. “I will not allow him to get close to her.”

Seeing that the discussion was at a standstill, Shi’nryne wisely decided to relent on his argument for the moment. There would be another time to discuss this when Nathavin would be more open to rational conversation concerning her safety. For now he simply wanted to ensure that Caellia would remain by his side, and he by hers, and Shi’nryne could appreciate the reasoning behind that, even if the reasoning was poorly thought out. He could still understand why Nathavin would want to keep her by his side.

After a while, Nathavin asked that everyone leave him and Caellia to their privacy. As the hours crept by, he couldn’t believe that he was finally going to get his most fervent wish. A wish that he’d told no one ever in his long life. He was finally going to have a family of his own. A genuine smile broke across his dark visage at the thought of a happy child running through the castle.

Caellia’s eyes opened slowly and focused on Nathavin, catching a rare glimpse of a full blown smile. It momentarily took her breath away. She stared in amazement at the transformation, the smile made his already handsome features stand out even more. The only question was; what was he smiling about?

“Nathavin?” She questioned lightly as she tried to sit up. She was shocked into stillness when he suddenly placed a light, chaste kiss on her lips and pushed her back into a reclining position on the bed. “Wha…” She started, confused.

“Lay back and relax.” He told her with a grin that he couldn’t contain despite all his efforts. “Are you comfortable?” He asked, piling the covers around her even more.

“Yes, I’m fine.” She responded warily, watching him with suspicion, as she readjusted the covers to her liking. It dawned on her that her stomach had settled down and she was a bit hungry. “I’m feeling better than before.” As she began to tell him that she felt like eating, her brows furrowed and she sat up straighter. “When did I come to bed?”

Nathavin laughed and explained that he’d found her on the lounge and had brought her to the bed. He also explained about calling the healer and Kattath to come check on her. However, he did not inform her right away about why she’d been feeling the way she had. Instead, he began to explain that the healers had said that she would undergo periods of nausea and lethargy, strange mood shifts and even stranger hunger cravings.

Caellia listened to all this with shock. What was wrong with her?! “Nathavin, what…what’s wrong with me?!” She asked, terrified beyond belief. By the sound of what he was describing, she was very sick! But why would he be smiling about it!

“Caellia,” he sat on the edge of the bed and took one of her hands in his while tenderly cupping the side of her face with the other. “You’re pregnant with our child.”

Caellia stared at him for several long seconds before she remembered to breathe again. “Wh…what?”

He patiently repeated that she was pregnant, watching the emotions cross her face. There were so many it was almost comical. Disbelief, shock, confusion…they all played across her face. He let her pull her hand from his grasp, watching as the hand slowly came to rest on her abdomen, laying it above where the baby was growing.

Pregnant? She was pregnant? Caellia couldn’t believe it. Her eyes, large with shock, rose up to his in disbelief.

Seeing that she was overwhelmed by the news, he laughed and pushed her down into the bed, taking extra care to be gentle. “Sleep for now. We will discuss this after you’ve had a good restive sleep.” Overriding her complaints, he placed another chaste kiss on her lips and walked from their sleeping quarters. Pacing over to his desk, he poured himself a bit Codran wine from the decanter and raised it in silent toast to their good fortune.

[nabiscocookie]

**Installment 63**

Asadar stalked to his private chamber and shut the door, making sure it was securely bolted. Absently he hushed the massive panther at his side when it gave a low growl of irritation at how close the door had come to closing on its tail. Tossing the cat a treat of salted buffalo flesh, he made his way to his desk. Sitting down, he took a piece of blank enchanted parchment and an enchanted inkwell and quill and began to write. The letters glowed a deep purple before disappearing in a small puff of smoke.

What news have you of Goddard’s preparations for war?

It took some time before he got a reply back, the letters fading into view slowly in the same deep purple color. They stayed only a few seconds before they too vanished in a puff of smoke.

I have nothing to report on the preparations. Nathavin has not let me in on the battle plans. He does not trust me enough.

Asadar sat back in anger. It would figure that his only source of information inside the dark elf’s castle had not managed to gain Nathavin’s trust. As he sat there, debating on whether or not to kill his spy when he attacked the castle, a new message appeared that caught his attention and held it.

However, there is a rumor flying around the castle that Caellia has become pregnant. I have not had a chance to confirm this for myself, but she and Shi’nryne have discontinued her training sessions abruptly. There is some talk among the servants here that indicates there is some talk of possibly removing her from the castle before the attack, which lends credence to the rumor.

Asadar rocked back as he absorbed the new information. Slowly his anger built until it was white hot. How dare she?! Furiously he scribbled his next message.

Confirm this. Now! If she is pregnant, use any means to get close to her. Do not worry about gaining Nathavin’s trust, gain hers. She will see to it that Nathavin lets you near her if she trusts you. Find out if he is going to remove her from the castle before the attack and find out where he intends to send her.

As you wish.

Asadar watched in anger as the parchment burst into purple flames, signifying that his informant had destroyed his own scroll. Angrily he pushed away from his desk and began to pace the room. With the conception of a child, the two elven races were that much closer to being reunified. They were much more powerful now than they had been before.

He had hoped that when he captured Caellia that he would be able to convince her to stay by his side, even if he had to coerce her. But even he knew that coercion would no longer be an option if she were carrying Nathavin’s child.

Or would it? His eyes landed on the fire burning brightly in the brazier. She did seem to truly love the dark elf. What would she be willing to do to keep his child? What price would she be willing to pay to ensure that child stayed alive if she were captured? An evil grin split his face as he thought of the possibilities before it was replaced with a fierce expression. First, he had to capture her and utterly destroy Goddard Castle and its cursed Lord. Then, he could focus on ensuring that she would stay by his side while he destroyed the rest of the elves. Her loyalty to him while he destroyed the elves would guarantee the safety of the child she carried.

Zarvynaar watched as the scroll burned to nothing, not even leaving ashes behind. How did he go about gaining Caellia’s trust? Kattath had put up such a fuss that she had actually had him removed from the detail that was charged with protecting Caellia. And while Caellia had been friendly enough to him, she had deferred to both Kattath and Nathavin’s feelings regarding him.

He scowled in remembrance of the day Nathavin had removed him from the protection detail. Whatever Kattath had said had thoroughly destroyed the trust Nathavin had placed in him. Had she discovered him sending secret messages? He tilted his to the side in thought. No, it wasn’t likely that she had. The most likely reason he could come up with was that something in his aura had tipped her off that he was not to be trusted. And she in turn had informed Nathavin.

Turning a corner, he came to an abrupt halt, nearly colliding with Caellia. “My apologies, my Queen.” He said as he reached out a hand to steady her. As he did so, he swept a surreptitious glance down her frame, looking for any obvious signs of pregnancy. When he could discern no obvious signs, he decided to query subtly. “I hope I have not caused you any additional discomfort in your condition?”

Caellia righted herself and pulled away from him. “No apologies needed. I shouldn’t have been rushing through the castle.”

An awkward silence fell between them.

“My Queen,” he shook his head and began again. “Caellia, please, let me escort you to wherever it is that you were headed. I would feel awful if our near collision caused you to be injured in any way.” He did his best to look as if he was genuinely concerned about her welfare, even offering her his arm to take hold of.

“Why would our near collision cause me to be injured?” Caellia asked with a slightly upraised brow.

Feigning a look of confusion, Zarvynaar replied. “I merely thought that, in your condition, it would be very easy for you to be injured.”

Caellia thought over his words a moment before saying softly. “I wouldn’t be injured over so slight a collision.”

Though her words were simple and would not have aroused suspicion on their own, it was the faint shifting of her hand to her abdomen that gave her away. He sucked in a quick breath as he realized that she had just unconsciously protected the growing infant.

Neither of them noticed Kattath and Nathavin reach the top of the stairs at the end of the corridor.

“Caellia come here.” Nathavin said in a low hiss, his eyes trained on Zarvynaar. When she was safely by his side, he sent both her and Kattath to their private suite. Once they were out of earshot, he intoned lowly to the blade dancer. “I thought I told you not to go near her.”

Zarvynaar braced himself and answered in a conciliatory tone. “My apologies, my Lord. I was merely coming down this corridor and when I rounded the corner she was on the other side. I was not looking for her.” Which was true, he really hadn’t been seeking her out.

Nathavin glared at him. The story held just enough truth to be plausible. The training area that Zarvynaar used most frequently was on this side of the castle and the corridor he indicated he was coming from lead directly to it. “You are returning from a practice session?”

“Yes.” Zarvynaar replied warily.

“Who was your sparring partner?” Nathavin asked bluntly.

“My sparring partner?” Confusion laced Zarvynaar’s voice. Why would Nathavin want to know that?

“Yes. Your sparring partner. Who was it?” Nathavin watched closely as the blade dancer seemed to grow more uncomfortable.

“I didn’t have one. I used the training dummies.”

Nathavin’s lips thinned into a straight line. That was a lie and he knew it. Shi’nryne had removed the training dummies from that practice field days ago to have them repaired and had not yet replaced them. “Are you sure?”

“Yes.” Zarvynaar replied a bit defensively. “I have no reason to lie to you Lord Nathavin.”

Nathavin merely raised an eyebrow. “Indeed.” He was not ready yet to inform the blade dancer of his misstep. “See that you do not lie to me in the future.” He then let Zarvynaar pass.

As he was about to follow Kattath and Caellia to his suite, Andraos stepped in front of him from the corridor that Zarvynaar had nearly collided into Caellia from. Looking Nathavin in the eye he spoke solemnly. “He’s lying.”

“I’m aware of that.” Nathavin replied evenly.

Andraos’ mouth twitched upward as he questioned in amusement. “The training dummies?”

Nathavin merely raised his chin in silent confirmation.

A low laugh escaped Andraos before he turned serious again. “He is communicating with Asadar by means of secret enchanted scrolls.” At Nathavin’s questioning look he continued. “It is a favorite method of communication for Asadar. It’s quick, private, and leaves behind no evidence.” A conspiratorial grin graced his face. “Unless you know what you are looking for.”

“And I suppose you know what you are looking for?” Nathavin asked without humor.

With a nod, Andraos replied that he did indeed know what he was looking for, and could even recreate the messages with the proper tools.

Nathavin regarded the human in silence for several moments before deciding to allow him the use of the materials he had requested. “I want the complete messages that were sent and received.”

“You will have them.” Andraos said confidently. “Where might I find you when I am done?”

Nathavin considered this for a moment. He wanted to see Caellia and explain to her that Zarvynaar was not to be trusted and that she did not need to be alone with him at all. But he also needed to go over a few more details regarding the defense of the castle. Finally he answered, “Send for me using one of the servants. They will know where to find me.”

Andraos nodded and then left to see about his task.

It was many hours later before he was finally done recreating the messages. Hurriedly he sent a servant to find Nathavin.

Nathavin stared in anger at the messages. He uttered his commands in a tightly controlled voice. “She is to remain in this castle at all times. No one, absolutely no one, aside from Kattath, Shi’nryne, and myself is to see her.”

Andraos stood quietly with the rest of Nathavin’s most trusted commanders.

Nathavin looked to one of the commanders. “Have the forces that Dion and Giran promised us made it here yet? And what of the light elven forces? Has Nalia sent them as well?”

The commander nodded. “The forces from Dion and Giran will be arriving in the next day. The light elven forces are here already. They have so far been staying inside the town and haven’t approached the castle on Nalia’s orders. She did not want to approach the castle until we called for them.”

Nathavin nodded. “Call them inside the castle now. I will give the forces from Dion and Giran three days to rest from their journey.” His eyes turned black as coal as anger suffused him. “If Asadar hasn’t attacked us by then, we will attack Aden!”

Kattath waited until all the other commanders left. “Nathavin,” she said quietly pulling him up short, “Caellia is not going to like being confined during the battle.” She paused to choose her words carefully. “It will feel too much like it did before, when she was confined not for her protection, but because she was a prisoner.”

Nathavin nodded silently. He was aware that Caellia was not going to like his decision regarding her confinement. “I will handle her.”

Kattath frowned slightly while replying with discontent. “Nathavin, she is not an object to be ‘handled.’”

“Be that as it may, she is still my wife, and my responsibility. If she chooses to make a fuss,” he stared at Kattath pointedly, “then I will handle it.” He was not going to back down from this. “She carries our child. I am not going to let her put both herself and the child at risk simply because she wants to fight in this battle.” Seeing that Kattath was not going to say anything more, he left to inform Caellia of the change in plans.

[nabiscocookie]

**Installment 64**

Shi’nryne watched the slightly younger blade dancer from the shadows for a brief moment before announcing his presence with a cough.

Zarvynaar whipped around quickly, his blades held before him in a guard position, before he lowered them at the sight of Shi’nryne. “Why have you called me? I have nothing new to report yet.”

Raising an eyebrow, Shi’nryne replied stiffly. “I understand that you have nothing new to report. However, I need you to give a message to Asadar.”

Zarvynaar scowled deeply. “What is it?”

“I do not want Asadar to know that Caellia will be at the castle for the attack. She will be in the castle mind you. But if Asadar believes she isn’t, he might split off some of his troops to look for her, thereby weakening his attack against the castle.” Shi’nryne watched Zarvynaar closely for a moment. “You are uncomfortable performing your tasks?”

“I do not like being perceived as a threat.” Zarvynaar glared at the darkened sky for a moment. “I am not comfortable with acting the part of spy for Asadar. I am not comfortable with having to act as though I don’t care about anyone in this castle. I don’t like having to act the part of a suspicious un-trustworthy person!” A frustrated sigh broke from him as his hands ran through his hair. “I’m not even making sense.”

“You don’t like being a double agent.” Shi’nryne stated with understanding. He sighed deeply. “Believe me I don’t like you having to play the part either. But I do not fully trust Andraos. And in order for you to play the part effectively enough to fool him you must put yourself in the mindset of a traitor. That, by necessity, means thinking in ways you ordinarily would not.”

“Nathavin seems to trust him well enough.” Zarvynaar pointed out. “And according to the messages you sent me he interpreted my messages to Asadar correctly.” A very dark look crossed his face. “And I most certainly did not like revealing Caellia’s pregnancy to Asadar.” That had truly rattled him and had almost caused him to balk at the assignment Shi’nryne had given him.

“It was regrettable that we had to reveal that information.” Shi’nryne agreed. “But, it was necessary.”

“Was it?” Zarvynaar barked out, the stress of having everyone believe him to be a traitor wearing on him. “Why was it necessary? Why is any of this necessary?” He took three angry steps toward Shi’nryne, his swords held downward stiffly. “They believe I am a traitor!”

Shi’nryne’s gaze fell on the swords, noticing that they were slightly shaking. “It was, and is, necessary to ensure that Andraos was indeed on our side.” He looked back up and met Zarvynaar’s eyes. “The only way to do that was to convince everyone that you were what you are not.”

“Why?” The question came out as a tortured croak. “Nathavin no longer trusts me. Caellia and Kattath no longer trust me.” He lapsed into silence a moment before snarling out viciously. “No one trusts me anymore!”

Unknown to either blade dancer, Nathavin was listening to their conversation from around the corner. While he had not heard the complete conversation, he had heard enough to understand what was going on. Infuriated, he listened quietly as Shi’nryne continued to defend his reasoning on why Andraos’ trust had needed to be verified, and as if that was not bad enough, why it had been necessary to make Zarvynaar appear to be an enemy. Angrily he swung around the corner and glared at Shi’nryne.

Upon seeing Nathavin, Zarvynaar tensed even further, uncertain as to what the dark lord’s reaction to him would be. He was not looking forward to facing the lord’s wrath.

“What have I done so wrong in my leadership that has caused you to doubt my judgment in people?” Nathavin questioned in a dangerously low voice, his darkened gaze focused on Shi’nryne. A tense silence passed for the span of a heartbeat before he continued in the same deadly undertones. “What have I done to cause you to take it upon yourself to order a covert operation, using double agents, without my express consent or knowledge?”

Shi’nryne remained silent, understanding intuitively that the questions were purely rhetorical.

Nathavin continued to glare at Shi’nryne, for once uncertain how to handle the situation. This complicated everything! With an aggravated snort, he turned his attention to Zarvynaar. “Go to the war room and wait for me there. Go, now!” He snapped out in irritation. He waited until Zarvynaar had enough time to get out of earshot before turning his attention to Shi’nryne again, disappointment clear in his voice. “I trusted you.” Another pause. “I trusted you to train Caellia. I trusted you with her safety and well being. And yet, you turn around and do this?”

“Nathavin I do not trust that fool Andraos.” Shi’nryne started out hotly. “He is far too eager to help us!”

Nathavin glared at Shi’nryne for a long moment. “Asadar is losing supporters daily. I do not consider Andraos’ help to be anything more dangerous than him becoming disillusioned with Asadar’s rule as the rest of his followers have increasingly become. Andraos’ information was found to be credible. He had solid information regarding Aden castle that was verified by a group of dwarves who had been specifically sent out to verify that story.” He paused again to gather his thoughts. “This was not necessary. And to put Zarvynaar up to this…” He trailed off with a shake of his head. “What were you thinking?”

“Worst of all, you’ve endangered Caellia.” He muttered with deep concern.

Shi’nryne snarled out viciously, incensed that Nathavin would feel he’d placed Caellia in danger. “She’s not in any danger!”

“No?!” Nathavin bit out incredulously. “Then what would you have me think after finding out that you ordered Zarvynaar to tell Asadar that she is pregnant?!”

“I told him to merely hint at the fact, not actually confirm it!” His hands twitched at his sides reflexively before he remembered that his swords were still where he’d left them in his quarters. “As far as Asadar is concerned it is merely a rumor, not a fact!”

“He doesn’t need it to be fact for him pounce on it!” Nathavin cursed expressively as his hands fisted at his sides. “Caellia is in grave danger because of your monumental lack of judgment!”

Shi’nryne stiffened angrily and took a breath in preparation to defend himself again but was cut off unexpectedly.

“Lord Nathavin, now is not the time to place blame.” Andraos said carefully. He was very much aware that he was interrupting two very powerful and angry elves that would much prefer to be left alone at that precise moment. “There will be time for that later. Right now we must endeavor to determine how much damage has been done by these,” he paused, looking for the correct phrase, “unfortunate actions. Then we must make efforts to mitigate the damage.”

A suspicious look crossed Shi’nryne’s face and he bit out venomously before Nathavin could say a word. “How did you find us? How did you know to come looking for us?” The human must’ve been spying on them, he was sure of it! Shillien curse him to the underworld!

Andraos held his gaze unflinchingly. “Shi’nryne isn’t it?” At the blade dancers curt nod, he continued. “I would imagine that half the castle has heard the argument taking place here.” His look slid to Nathavin, “I may be speaking out of turn, and if that is the case I apologize now, but the two of you weren’t exactly being quiet.”

Nathavin’s scowl deepened considerably as he realized just how loud the argument had gotten. He turned his furious eyes on the human for a moment before relaxing ever so slightly. It was purely his and Shi’nryne’s fault the human had come to investigate such a disturbance. Matter of fact it was probably lucky that it was only Andraos who had come to see what was going on. Of course on the other hand, had he and Shi’nryne been more careful there would have been no disturbance to investigate at all.

“You are speaking out of turn, human.” Shi’nryne growled viciously.

Glancing sharply at Shi’nryne, Nathavin bit out harshly. “I am the one to determine who is or who isn’t speaking out of turn.”

“Nathavin how do we know he wasn’t intentionally spying on…”

“Lord Nathavin.” He corrected, placing heavy emphasis on his title. Fixing Shi’nryne with a hard glare, “You seem to have forgotten your place these past few months, my old friend.” Nathavin was furious. “Besides,” he continued as he swept Andraos with another discerning glance, “he is in night time attire. I hardly think that he would go spying on one of us in anything less than his armor.”

Andraos inclined his head in agreement with that assessment. Truth be told he wouldn’t have gone spying on either male in front of him without one other person with him at least.

Seeing that Shi’nryne was not going to argue that point, Nathavin turned his attention back to the original problem. Shi’nryne’s lack of judgment could have dire results. “Your method of training Caellia, while harsh, never put her in harms way. But this…This could jeopardize everything we’ve worked so hard for. I can not simply turn my back on this.” His voice turned from anger to one of distress as he stared at his friend, “I can not let this oversight go unpunished.”

Shi’nryne drew himself up to his full height and gave a curt bow, acknowledging Nathavin’s position. “As you wish, Lord Nathavin.” After a moment’s hesitation he continued in the same respectful, though no less agitated, tone. “My deepest and most sincere apologies for any perceived wrong doing.”

Nodding, Nathavin stayed silent for a moment. It pained him to have to discipline his friend. “I will decide on your punishment later. For now, we must go see about undoing this,” he searched for the correct word, “error.”

As they made their way through the castle, Nathavin sent a guard to inform Kattath of the impending meeting and that her presence was required along with his top generals.

When the guard found Kattath, she was with Caellia. Since Nathavin had not expressly told him that Caellia was not included in the meeting, he did not think twice about speaking of it in front of her. Kattath and Caellia shared worried looks. Whatever the meeting was about it was obviously very serious as it was very late at night.

Upon entering the war room, Caellia caught Nathavin’s gaze and instantly knew he wasn’t thrilled about her being there. Instinctively she raised her chin up a notch and arched a delicate eyebrow, silently daring him to vocalize his disapproval. Kattath had informed her of his not wanting her to take part in the battle and Caellia most certainly did not agree with that. She had as much at stake in this fight as he did and she would not be shut away while others fought.

Nathavin glared at Caellia for a second before turning his gaze on Kattath. Clearly she had informed Caellia of his decision. His mouth tightened in frustration. Did no one listen to him anymore? His gaze slid back to Caellia and glowered at her for a moment before deciding that for now he would let her win this particular battle. However, his expression darkened as he continued to stare at Caellia, they would discuss this later.

A shiver ran down Caellia’s spine. She had won, for the time being. But his look had made it perfectly clear to her, this fight wasn’t over. Her gaze swept around the room taking in the other occupants. When her eyes landed on Zarvynaar, she simply stared. Why was he there?

Kattath had also noticed Zarvynaar’s presence and she immediately went on her guard. What in Shillien’s name was going on?

Slowly Nathavin explained what had occurred, prodding Shi’nryne and Zarvynaar to clarify as needed. As he’d expected there was a brief moment of silence before the room burst into a cacophony of sound. Confusion reigned supreme for several long and tense minutes while accusations and insults were flung around the room with abandon.

Surprisingly it was Caellia who restored order to the room by taking a handful of miniature figurines that was meant to represent different siege machines, such as the hog cannon and the like, and flung them across the table. The resulting shower of ivory, ebony, and bone pieces pelted anyone standing within a few inches of the table. She met each of their incredulous gazes head on before saying in glacial tones. “Will you stop behaving like children?”

Nathavin stared at Caellia in surprise. It was clear from her expression as well as her voice when she’d spoken that her temper had been sparked. He briefly considered reining in her rather acidic temper. But as he caught sight of her ice blue eyes dancing around the room and freezing each general into silence in turn with the force of her glare and a sharp tongued reply, he began to feel more than just surprise. Shillien but did she look impressive asserting her authority! Slowly he edged into the shadows of the room. He could call the meeting back into order at anytime he wanted, for now however he would sit back and enjoy watching the beautiful creature that was his alone.

Kattath watched Nathavin as he all but melted into the shadows of the room. A small smile broke out onto her face. She didn’t have to see auras to know what he was up to! He intended on enjoying watching the display of Caellia’s infamous, but rarely shown, temper. Biting her lower lip to keep from laughing, she turned her attention to the rest of the room, taking the time to read each of their auras closely while their attention was focused solely on Caellia.

When she came to Zarvynaar however her breath caught. He wasn’t focused on Caellia. He was focused on her. Immediately she closed her gift off with a small shudder. Quickly she averted her gaze elsewhere, sending a clear signal for him to leave her alone. After a few minutes she cautiously opened her gift again and subtly read his aura only to find in consternation that he was still focused intently on her. A low growl of frustration escaped her as she turned to face him and forced herself to read his aura closely and interpret it. Her eyes widened at what she discovered. This would not do! Raising her chin in defiance, she glared at him.

Zarvynaar lifted his own chin as a slow grin spread across his face as she defiantly stared at him. She thought to challenge him, how amusing. She would soon learn that he rather enjoyed a good challenge.

[Yatta7]

Did no one listen to him anymore?

I lol'd IRL

[nabiscocookie]

OMG i'm finally back. I'm so sorry I havent updated in so long. Family issues + Thanksgiving and Christmas + more family issues = not alot of writing time. This is short, but I wanted to get it out there as quick as I could. will be writing more soon.

**Installment 65**

Caellia glared around the room before hissing out angrily. “How dare you act as children?” She leaned against the table, resting her weight on her hands as she continued to glare at each general. Her gaze landed on Shi’nryne before flickering over to Zarvynaar. “These two are not guilty of anything more than simple poor judgment. They do not deserve such insults.”

A high ranking general, a templar of Shillien, scoffed. “Neither do they deserve compassion either. Or have you forgotten that it is you that they have placed in greatest danger with their ill thought out scheme?”

Caellia cast him a frigid glance, “I am not in any more danger now than I was before.” She took a bracing breath as she remembered the day Goryn’s forces had been ambushed by Asadar and the forces of Aden. “Asadar targeted me long before this. He’s intended on trying to capture me for a long while now.” Her voice softened somewhat as she gazed at the two blade dancers. “Their actions have not changed anything.”

Coming around the table, she came to stand in front of both of them. She looked both in the eyes, “I do not hold either of you responsible for anything.” Her gaze swung to Shi’nryne, “I still value the training you have given me, and I will continue to value the training you will provide me in the future.” She turned her gaze to Zarvynaar, “As of right now, I am restoring you to your previous duties as a member of my personal guard staff.”

Again the general began to protest loudly. “You are entirely too forgiving my Queen!” He venomously stated that neither blade dancer had done anything to regain the trust and respect that they’d lost. Seeing that he was not gaining any ground in his argument with Caellia, he turned to Nathavin. “Surely you do not intend on allowing this nonsense to continue?”

The room fell completely silent. Hardly anyone dared to breathe as they waited to see what Nathavin’s reaction would be. Would he overturn her orders?

Caellia snapped her gaze to Nathavin. If he countermanded her now she vowed he would pay for it later. Her eyes narrowed in silent dare.

Slowly Nathavin nodded his head once at her in silent agreement before raising his voice to carry across the room. “I will not go against the wishes of my Queen.” Coming away from the wall where he’d been quietly watching the room, he moved to stand in front of the two blade dancers. “However, understand that it is only because of her faith in you that you are being let off so easily.” His voice dropped to a low warning rumble. “If you disappoint me again, no amount of persuasion on her part will save you.”

He turned to the still protesting general. “Enough. The matter is settled.”

Andraos cleared his throat to draw everyone’s attention to him. Picking up the miniature figurines that Caellia had tossed, he set them back on the table. “Nathavin, I respectfully suggest that we wait for Asadar to attack us.” He placed the figurines around the structure that represented Goddard castle. “Goryn broke through your defenses here and here, using these machines. If we strengthen these areas along the walls and place archers along these walls here,” he said as he pointed out various locations, “we can successfully stave off the attack and destroy his armies in the process.”

Nathavin understood that Andraos was attempting to diffuse the tense situation regarding the blade dancers and allowed the blatant distraction, readily taking up the discussion of battle tactics. Leaning over the table to better see the replica battleground, he pointed to a few more structures of the castle while picking up several of the miniature figurines himself. “If we place the forces from Dion and Giran here, we can use them as a diversion.”

The battle planning lasted several hours with everyone including Caellia taking part in the discussion. After the fifth heated debate broke out on the placement of several key units, Nathavin looked over to see Caellia leaning wearily against the wall. She had dropped out of the conversation quite some time ago as exhaustion began to take its toll on her. Shi’nryne and Zarvynaar were standing on either side of her, covertly helping her to stand up straight. Excusing himself from the table, he came to stand in front of her. When she raised her eyes to his he could see that the outer edges were slightly reddened from her over exhaustion.

She began to tilt to one side slightly and Nathavin didn’t miss the way Zarvynaar shifted his weight subtly so that she could right herself using him for support. He caught the blade dancers’ gaze and wordlessly gave the barest of nods, both acknowledging and praising the younger males’ action before returning his attention to Caellia. Reaching out to her, he gently pulled her to him and away from the watchful gaze of the blade dancers.

Andraos and Kattath kept the generals busy with the battle planning so that Nathavin could lead Caellia out of the room in relative secrecy.

Caellia didn’t protest as Nathavin led her away from the war room. As they passed several windows on the way to their suites, she noticed for the first time that the sun had risen and was rapidly clearing away the early morning fog that often times surrounded the castle.

“You shouldn’t have stayed up so long.” Nathavin mildly admonished her with a sidelong glance. “You need your rest more than ever now with the baby.”

“I wanted to stay up and help with the planning.” Caellia answered tiredly through a yawn.

“You have helped plenty enough for now.” Nathavin assured her as they crossed into their rooms. “Now what I want you to do is lay down and get some sleep.”

Too tired to protest, and honestly she really didn’t want to anyway, Caellia nodded and allowed him to help her prepare for and climb into bed.

After seeing that she was sound asleep, Nathavin stepped out of the suite to return to the war room. As he stepped outside their rooms, he noticed Zarvynaar already taking up a guarding position by the door. “You do not have to assume your duties so soon. You need your rest as well.” He kept his tone at least civil if not exactly friendly. He still wasn’t entirely sure how he felt about Zarvynaar keeping watch over Caellia. If she hadn’t spoken up for both Zarvynaar and Shi’nryne he would have seriously considered exiling the two.

Zarvynaar held Nathavin’s gaze for a moment before answering. “I owe her.” His chin rose slightly. “For saving both my reputation and my life.” He honestly believed that had she not intervened and stood up for both him and Shi’nryne that they would have been killed. Even if Nathavin himself had not ordered them executed, one of the generals would have seen to it that they both died. But Caellia’s actions had assured that both he and Shi’nryne would not face execution, either from Nathavin or any of the other generals. “I will stand guard until you return.”

Nathavin stared at him for a moment longer before conceding the issue. “I will not take long.” The thought of leaving Caellia under the protection of one he’d so recently believed to be a traitor still rankled, but he forced himself to remember that she herself had placed Zarvynaar back into her personal guard unit. It was by her own choice that Zarvynaar was there now. If she was to have the same level of authority and respect in the castle as he did, he had to set the example and respect her wishes and authority as well. Pushing his misgivings aside, he returned to the war room.

Zarvynaar slowly released the breath he’d been holding as Nathavin walked away. He’d been unsure for a moment if Nathavin was going to honor Caellia’s wishes. It had seemed for a long moment that Nathavin had been considering sending him away. Not that he would have left without a protest.

[Skinfaxy]

You are doing a wonderful job writing this story

[EUPHORIA]

wonderful!
i started to read, but stopped, cuz I wanna whole story!

[nabiscocookie]

i will finish it...i promise i will...too many ppl will hunt me down ingame if i dont lol...but um...the delay is because....um...





and my own cat likes to lay across the keys, making typing (as well as playing for that matter) sorta....interesting....specially when he decides that my fingers make good chew toys...ouchies....

but i will finish

[EUPHORIA]

take ur time
we will wait

[Skinfaxy]

I love your story, I am somewhere in the middle of it and I can't wait to find out what happens next If I didn't had to come to work today I would probably stay up all night to finish it.
Congratulations again and please write more!